Wikivoyage enwikivoyage https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Main_Page MediaWiki 1.47.0-wmf.5 first-letter Media Special Talk User User talk Wikivoyage Wikivoyage talk File File talk MediaWiki MediaWiki talk Template Template talk Help Help talk Category Category talk TimedText TimedText talk Module Module talk Event Event talk 0 1272 5288988 5269969 2026-06-07T04:29:26Z Sree1959 2299756 Updated the URL 5288988 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner|Antarctica-banner1.jpg|caption=An Adélie penguin standing on an iceberg|origin=1,0}} '''Antarctica''' is the coldest and driest place on Earth, and surrounds the [[South Pole]]. Tourist visits are costly, demand physical fitness, can only take place in summer (from November to February), and are largely limited to the Peninsula, Islands and [[Ross Sea]]. A couple of thousand staff live here in summer in some four dozen bases mostly in those areas; a small number stay over winter. Inland Antarctica is a desolate plateau covered by {{convert|2-3|km|mi}} of ice. Occasional specialist air tours go inland, for mountaineering or to reach the Pole, which has a large base. Wildlife needs access to the sea and is confined to the coasts. == Regions == {{Worldimagemap/Antarcticaimagemap}} {{Regionlist | regionmap= | regionmaptext= | regionmapsize= | region1name=[[Antarctic Peninsula]] | region1color=#c583cc | region1items= | region1description=The main cruise destination, with seas that support wildlife and are navigable in summer, and with the shortest crossing from temperate climates. The impressive heights of the Antarctic Andes and many research stations are here. | region2name=[[Islands of the Southern Ocean|Antarctic and sub-Antarctic islands]] | region2color=#73a3c3 | region2items= | region2description=These are widely separated across the wild Southern Ocean. The only ones routinely visited are the [[South Shetland Islands]], but as these are close to the Antarctic Peninsula they're described there. | region3name=[[East Antarctica]] | region3color=#b1c5b0 | region3items= | region3description=This vast ice desert is seldom visited. But cruises to the Ross Sea sometimes follow the coast as far as Commonwealth Bay, where Mawson's Huts are the legacy of the 1911-13 expedition. | region5name=[[West Antarctica]] | region5color=#a5b7d3 | region5items= | region5description=This is barren and empty, with only a handful of research stations. But it does contain the continent's highest mountain, which you can climb on a guided expedition. You can also run a marathon here. | region6name=[[Ross Sea]] | region6color=#e4b9b9 | region6items= | region6description=Ross Island has the largest settlement on this continent, McMurdo Station. The island has several historic camp sites and Mount Erebus, an active volcano that you can climb. This is the usual destination for cruises from New Zealand or Australia. | region7name=[[South Pole]] | region7color=#000000 | region7description=The furthest south you can go. }} : ''All dots on the map represent inhabited research stations.'' == Understand == [[File:Transantarctic mountain hg.jpg | thumb | 300px | Transantarctic mountains]] === History === About 15&nbsp;million years ago, the mountain chain connecting South America to Antarctica sank under the ocean, and a new continent was born. Cold sea currents now enclosed Antarctica completely and its climate became intensely cold. 18th century explorers probed the dangerous southern oceans only to encounter a vast barrier of ice: they could hardly tell what was islands, what was a larger land mass, and what was just ice. The first sure sightings of the mainland were in 1820, by Russian, British and American ships all at about the same time. Whaling and sealing vessels began to hunt in the seas here, and explorers mapped the coast. In 1897, a Belgian expedition overwintered in Antarctica and this was the start of the "Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration", culminating when [[Voyages of Roald Amundsen|Roald Amundsen and his crew reached the South Pole in December 1911]]. Robert Scott arrived a month later but never made it back to the coast. Nations began setting up bases and claiming parts of the continent, while conducting scientific work. There was a particular effort at collaboration in the "International Geophysical Year" of 1957/58, and this led to the Antarctic Treaty of 1959. The Treaty makes the continent a scientific preserve, suspends all territorial claims, and prohibits military activity here. This Treaty has stood the test of time, and today Antarctica has no border controls, mines or quarries, missile silos, fish canneries, or any settlements beyond small collections of prefabs. Some four dozen bases are occupied year round or seasonally by a transient population, numbering a few thousand in summer and perhaps a couple of hundred in winter. Only 10% could be described as "researchers"; the great majority are support and logistics staff to make the research possible. A couple of settlements style themselves "towns" and children have been born there. One base, McMurdo, even has a bus service; its route passes close to where Scott and his men perished in 1912. === Climate === Antarctica is a desert: the winds are cold, so they carry little moisture, and inland precipitation averages 50 mm (2 inch) a year, the same as the Mojave in California. And yet Antarctica is covered in ice 2–3 km thick. In a warmer climate the snowfall would run off in streams or evaporate, but here it just builds and builds. As Antarctica also has the strongest and most persistent winds of any continent, the snow (or bits of ice small enough to be carried by wind) is constantly moved around and as research stations act as artificial impediments to the free movement of air and snow, there is always the danger of those becoming "buried" by snow, requiring various techniques to avoid or at least delay this process. The bedrock beneath the ice is mostly low-lying (though there are several mountain ranges) – in fact some of the rock is actually several hundred meters below the sea – but add all that ice and most of the continent is at high altitude; the South Pole itself is 2835 m (9301 ft) above sea level. This makes a very cold climate colder still, with inland summer highs of -15°C (5°F) and winter lows below -80°C (-112°F), and thin dry air. The icecap is moving, very slowly on the plateau, faster as it descends to the coast to form glaciers and floating ice sheets which calve into county-sized icebergs. The coast, especially the Peninsula and its nearby islands, have a slightly less harsh climate, which means their seas are not frozen in summer. This is crucial for wildlife: penguins, seabirds and seals all depend upon open water. It also means that ships can approach, bearing supplies and tourists, from November through February. === Read === [[File:Roald Amundsen and Helmer Hanssen make observations at the South Pole, 1911 (6890566753, restored version).jpg | thumb | 300px | Amundsen checks that he's at the South Pole ]] Films and TV documentaries show Antarctic scenery and wildlife, but don't get you into the minds of the early explorers. The following are all available to order online. * ''Alone: The Classic Polar Adventure'', by Richard E Byrd, 1938. * ''At the Mountains of Madness'' by HP Lovercraft, 1936. The earliest science fiction/horror story to take place on the continent, detailing the adventures of a geological expedition to Antarctic Mountains, where the researchers discover something so inconceivable that they lose their minds. * ''Antarctica'', by Kim Stanley Robinson, 1997. Science fiction account of 21st-century Antarctica and the impact of global warming. * ''Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage'', by Alfred Lansing, 1959. * ''Endurance'', by Caroline Alexander, 1998. * ''A First-Rate Tragedy: Robert Falcon Scott & the Race to the South Pole'', by Diana Preston, 1999. * ''Mawson's Will'', by Lennard Bickel, 1977. * ''North Pole, South Pole: Journeys to the Ends of the Earth'', by Bertrand Imbert, 1992. * ''Scott's Last Expedition: The Journals'', by Robert F. Scott and Beryl Bainbridge, 1996. * ''Shackleton'', by Roland Huntford, 1975. * ''South Pole: 900 Miles on Foot'', by Gareth Wood and Eric Jamieson, 1996. * ''The Worst Journey in the World'', by Apsley Cherry-Garrard, 1922. * ''Terra Incognita'', by Sara Wheeler, 1997. * ''South'', by Ernest Shackleton, 1919. == Get in == [[File:Antarctica (11280897753).jpg | thumb | 300px | Taking off at Union Glacier ]] Antarctica has no immigration or [[border crossing|border controls]], but visitors to any land or sea south of 60°S need permission from an Antarctic Treaty member country. Your tour / cruise organiser will take care of this but those travelling independently should apply six months in advance. === By plane === Only five places in Antarctica can handle large, wheeled aircraft suitable for intercontinental flights in potentially hazardous conditions: * '''[[Villa las Estrellas]]''' ({{IATA|TNM}}) on King George Island, 200 km north of the Antarctic Peninsula. This has a gravel, all-seasons runway, and receives 2-hour charter flights from [[Punta Arenas]] between December and February. These flights require clear skies, but nearly all proceed as scheduled (98% as of January 2025 according to Lindblad, up from 85% previously). This is a common transfer point for visitors joining small-ship cruises of the islands and Peninsula. * '''[https://www.marambio.aq/bases/marambio.html Marambio Base]''' is on Marambio Island in the Weddell Sea, some 100 km south of the tip of the Peninsula. It's open year-round, though it's prone to fog in December and January. This large base acts as the support centre for all the Argentine stations in the region. * '''[[Ross Sea | McMurdo Station]]''' on Ross Island has two such airfields, receiving flights from [[Christchurch]], New Zealand that take four hours, but the strips are only open in November and December. It was intended that the newer "Phoenix" airfield would have a longer season than the "Ice Runway", but this hasn't worked out. McMurdo is a transfer point for visitors from Australia and New Zealand heading to the South Pole, using ski planes from its third airfield "Williams". * '''Union Glacier''' is a privately-run summer airfield on the desolate plateau of [[West Antarctica]]. It receives flights from Punta Arenas and from [[Cape Town]]. Most visitors are transferring to and from the South Pole, but this airfield is also a base for climbing Mount Vinson and for the Antarctic Marathon. * '''Wolfs Fang''' ({{IATA|WFR}}) is a privately-run summer airfield in Queen Maud Land, [[East Antarctica]], which receives medium-sized business jets from [[Cape Town]]. Guests transfer via Whichaway Camp to ski-aircraft to the Pole and elsewhere. In 2023, there are no standard commercial flights to any of these airfields, but see their details above for flight package tours. Onward flights into Antarctica use various small to medium aircraft such as the Twin Otter. All the bases have access to a ski runway or at least a helipad. '''Sightseeing overflights''' from Australia by [https://antarcticaflights.com.au Antarctica Flights] spend three hours over the continent. Prices range from AUD{{currency|AUD|8000}} for first-class down to {{currency|AUD|1200}} for a centre economy seat with no guaranteed window access. The Qantas regular flight between Sydney and Johannesburg passes close enough for a glimpse of Antarctica. === By ship === [[File:8857-grandidier-channel-polar-star.jpg | thumb | 300px | 100-passenger icebreaker in Grandidier Channel]] Ship is the most common method of visiting the Antarctic, with a sailing season Nov-Feb. The vessels are usually ice-strengthened rather than icebreakers; the latter are stronger but round-bottomed, so they heave about more in the massive waves of Drake Passage, typically 4 meters (12 ft) high, sometimes up to 12 meters (40 ft). Most itineraries are to the Antarctic peninsula and nearby Antarctic islands, and they often also take in more northerly islands such as South Georgia and the Falklands. Smaller ships (less than 100 passengers) can go where the big ships can't, getting you up closer to the nature and wildlife. Larger vessels are less prone to rough seas but have more limited landing options; both will use RIBs (powered dinghies) to get you ashore or close in among the ice floes. Big ships may have 1000+ normal capacity but be limited to 500 on Antarctic trips. IAATO rules say that at most 100 people may be ashore at any one time: that's mainly so that everyone can be swiftly plucked to safety when (not if) conditions turn dangerous. Larger ships therefore have to segment their landings, so those passengers might only get a couple of hours per day off ship. Smaller ships can get their shore parties out and back in one operation then move on to visit a second location same day. Everything is very dependent on the weather: an onshore breeze (which in these climes will be going on a gale) will send furious breakers pounding onto the landing beach. About a third of landings have to be called off. Even on a cosy cruise ship, you need warm clothing just to stand on deck let alone get ashore: boots, hoods, glove, water repellent pants, parka, and warm underwear. Most of these items can be bought or hired in Ushuaia, but they might not have your size. So bring whatever you can from your own stock. Many shipping companies also offer fly/cruises, so you fly one-way or round-trip from mainland Chile. These cost more but save a couple of days each way upchucking across the Drake Passage. As of 2023, a couple of dozen companies offer trips to Antarctica: others simply act as agents, selling you on to another company and charging a mark-up for their labours. Those listed here are understood to be direct operators, though they may be hiring the vessel with crew and sharing it with other companies. Supply outstrips demand: there is a lot of last-minute availability, but don't be ''too'' last-minute as even reaching the port of departure is a major trip in its own right. These companies all sail from Ushuaia unless otherwise noted: [[File:Antarctica Lake Fryxell.jpg | thumb | 300px | Lake Fryxell in Victoria Land ]] * [https://www.abercrombiekent.com/ Abercrombie & Kent] sail on ''Le Lyrial'' (200 passengers max). * [http://www.antarpply.com Antarpply Expeditions] on ''Ushuaia'' (90). * [https://www.aurora-expeditions.com/au Aurora Expeditions] on ''Greg Mortimer'' (126). * [https://www.barkeuropa.com/ Bark Europa] on ''Europa'', a square-rigged sailing ship. * [http://cheesemans.com Cheesemans Ecology Safaris]: flying into King George then onto the 12-passenger ''Hans Hanson''. * [https://en.ponant.com/destinations/antarctica] on ''Le Soleal'', ''Le Boreal'' and ''L'Austral'' (all about 260 max). * [http://www.expeditioncruisespecialists.com/destinations/antarctica Expedition Cruise Specialists]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} on ''Expedition'' (134) and ''Sea Spirit'' (114), also from Invercargill on ''Spirit of Enderby'' and ''Spirit of Shokalskiy'' (both 50), or flying into King George then onto 100-passenger ''Magellan Explorer''. * [http://www.gadventures.com/ G Adventures] also sail on ''Expedition''. * [http://www.heritage-expeditions.com Heritage Expeditions] also sail from Invercargill on ''Spirit of Enderby'' and ''Spirit of Shokalskiy.'' * [http://www.geoex.com Geographic Expeditions] sail from Ushuaia or fly into King George or to the South Pole. * [http://www.hl-cruises.com Hapag-Lloyd Cruises] on ''Bremen'' (155), and from 2021 on ''Hanseatic Nature'' and ''Hanseatic Inspiration''. * [https://global.hurtigruten.com/destinations/antarctica/ Hurtigruten]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} sail from Ushuaia and Punta Arenas on ''Roald Amundsen'' (500), ''Fridtjof Nansen'' (500), ''Fram'' (250) and ''Midnatsol'' (500). * [http://intrepidtravel.com Intrepid Travel] on ''Ocean Endeavour'' (100). * [http://www.quarkexpeditions.com Quark Expeditions] also on ''Ocean Endeavour''. * [http://www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com/ National Geographic Expeditions] on ''National Geographic Explorer'' (148), ''NG Orion'' (102) and ''NG Endurance'' (126). * [http://www.expeditions.com Lindblad Expeditions] sail on the same vessels. * [http://www.oceanwide-expeditions.com Oceanwide Expeditions] sail from Ushuaia and Bluff NZ on ''Plancius'' (108), ''Ortelius'' (108), ''Janssonius'' (170) and ''Hondius'' (170). * [https://polar-latitudes.com Polar Latitudes] on ''Hebridean Sky'' and ''Island Sky'', plus ''Seaventure'' from 2021. === By sailboat === About a dozen charter sailboats, many of them members of IAATO, offer three to six-week voyages to the Antarctic Peninsula from South America. Most offer "expedition style" trips where guests are invited to help out, although usually no prior sailing experience is required. Yachts take individuals on a "by the bunk" basis and also support private expeditions such as scientific research, mountaineering, kayaking, and film-making. Compared to the more popular expedition ships, a small yacht can be more work and significantly less comfortable, but typically allows more freedom and flexibility. For the right people, this can be a far more rewarding experience. * '''[http://www.ocean-expeditions.com/ Ocean Expeditions]'''. Expedition support yacht ''Australis'' purpose-built for high latitudes. Specializing in private or commercial expeditions involving film making, scientific research, adventure activities, wildlife enthusiasts or just an intimate experience of the Antarctic. * '''[http://www.expeditionsail.com/ Expedition Sail]'''. Sailing yacht ''Seal'' is a purpose-built expedition sailboat offering private expeditions, support for research, filming, or climbing projects, and also offers "by the bunk" trips for individuals. * '''[http://www.spiritofsydney.net/ Spirit of Sydney]'''. Australians Darrel and Cath own and operate ''Spirit of Sydney'', an expedition support yacht for film crews, mountaineers, skiers and snowboarders, sea kayakers, dry suit divers, scientists, sailors of all experience levels, and whale watchers. They typically carry kayaks on board and offer private charters and group trips for individuals. == Get around == [[File:8932-paradise-harbour-zodiac.JPG | thumb | 300px | Zodiacs get you ashore ]] Skis, snowmobiles, tractors, snowcats, helicopters and ski planes are all used to get around Antarctica, and McMurdo on Ross Island even has a bus service. Cruise ships use RIBs / zodiacs (sturdy inflatable powerboats) to ferry tourists between ship and shore; bases close to open water also use these. Bring your own fuel! The last of the pony- and dog-sled teams retired in the 1980s. It would be neat to bring a few teams over for a "heritage" run, but given the logistics and paperwork necessary, it would probably be simpler to run an old steam locomotive here. == See and do == Antarctica is an amazing place just to look at, with its enormous calving glaciers, icebergs the size of cities, penguin colonies and towering snow-clad mountains. But even just standing there looking is going to involve exertion on your part, elaborate preparation, and a degree of risk. The distinction between seeing and doing is a fine one in many locations, and here it vanishes altogether. * In that spirit, the prime thing for you to do in Antarctica is '''come home safe'''. Don't do anything, not even just standing there, without having that in mind. How are the sea conditions and the weather? How is your body faring? What about the other people in your group, is everyone accounted for? And what if, what if, what if? * '''[[Northern lights | The southern aurora]]''', but not in summer. You need full darkness to see it, but in summer the sky is bright even if the sun has briefly dipped below the horizon. You may have more chance on the homeward sailing, as your latitude decreases and the nights lengthen. The same applies to other dark sky sights such as meteors. * '''The [[midnight sun]]''' in midsummer, but only within the Antarctic circle; most of the Peninsula and all of the Antarctic Islands lie north of it. Actually you're going to get fed up with the sun, since it's broad daylight at 02:00 when you need your sleep. * '''Deception Island''', one of the [[South Shetland Islands]], is a remarkable natural amphitheatre with an equally remarkable show within. It's an active volcano, last erupting in 1970, and the deception is that it looks like a normal mountainous island. But its flanks are just the rim of a great flooded caldera, entered via the narrow channel "Neptune's Bellows" into a sheltered natural harbour. Its main sights are the scenery, a large colony of chinstrap penguins, geothermal hot springs (so you can swim in Antarctica), and the remains of an old whaling station and bases wrecked by eruptions.<!-- -->[[File:Lemaire Channel Jan 2014.JPG | thumb | 300px | Entering Lemaire Channel ]] * '''Lemaire Channel''' is a spectacular section of coastline along the Peninsula. It narrows to 1.6 km, and cruise ships sail through a canyon of cliffs and towering ice. Its waters are remarkably still and populated by whales. It's close to other attractions such as Port Lockroy, Cierva Cove and Paradise Bay so it's on many cruise itineraries, but the channel is sometimes blocked by icebergs, so the ship has to back up and seek another route. * '''Old camps and bases''' that have been abandoned. Some (such as on Paulet Island) were refuges built by shipwreck survivors, others (as on Deception, above) were summer camps for whaling and sealing. Port Lockroy on the Peninsula was the main British base until they moved to Rothera. It's been converted into a museum. There's a particularly rich collection on Ross Island, as this was historically the main base for exploration towards the pole. * '''Penguins''' are the signature beasts of Antarctica, yet most penguin species live much further north. ** Emperor penguins (''Aptenodytes forsteri'') are the 1.2 m creature that stays and breeds here during the harsh winter. Its habitat is stable pack ice within waddling distance of open water - though they may waddle for over 100 km. The largest colonies are on mainland sites that are hard to visit, but there's a small but accessible colony on King George Island, and a larger one at the tip of the Peninsula. ** Adélie penguins (''Pygoscelis adeliae'') are the ones 50-60 cm tall in badly-fitting tuxedos. They live at the edge of the ice and forage for krill, but in spring (October) they move to ice-free land to breed. Their largest known colony is in the Danger Islands at the tip of the Peninsula, with 1.5 million birds. ** King penguins (''A. patagonicus'') are about 70-90 cm tall, like a slimmed down Emperor with bright orange cheeks, but the biggest difference is their habitat. King penguins are sub-Antarctic not continental, and only nest on dry land, so you're most likely to see them on South Georgia. <!-- -->[[File:Leith whaling station.JPG | thumb | 300px | Leith whaling station, South Georgia ]] ** Gentoo penguins (''P. papua'') are 60-80 cm tall with a distinctive white band on the head and trumpeting call. They're mainly sub-Antarctic but are found on the Peninsula. ** Chinstrap penguins (''P. antarcticus'') are 70 cm with an obvious chin-strap and harsh stroppy call. They're mainly sub-Antarctic but are found on the Peninsula and South Shetland Islands. ** Tangerine penguins 50-60 cm high, are they Adélies? There are penguin colonies all round the Antarctic coastline, but viewing them from close-up needs a colony near a safe landing beach; so these attract a stream of visitors. You'll smell them first and hear their grating ''kra-kra kraa?'' before you see their orange line along the shore. Then as the boat draws closer you realize the orange things are ''traffic cones''. They are there partly to show you the trail (you may be trying to return in poor visibility), but mostly to indicate the line that you must not cross to avoid disturbing the colony. Expect grief if you transgress, and if you do so in January when the eggs are hatching and the chicks are most vulnerable, you'll be busted off further shore trips. ** No penguins at all at the South Pole, or anywhere on the remote plateau. * '''Other wildlife''' includes Humpback, Minke, Blue and Orca Whales; Crab-eater, Weddell and Leopard Seals; and Blue-eyed Shag, Southern Giant Petrel, Cape Petrel, and Kelp Gull. * '''Climb an active volcano,''' Mount Erebus at 3794 m on Ross Island. It's a Stromboli-type volcano so it erupts continuously but without great violence, so you can reach the summit crater with its lava lake. * '''Climb the Seventh Summit''', Mount Vinson at 4892 m. The "Seven Summits Challenge" is to climb the highest peaks of all seven continents. The list of seven is disputed: which continent does Elbrus belong to, and does Puncak Jaya in Indonesia supplant the Sunday afternoon stroll that is Kosciuszko? What is universally agreed is that Everest is the highest in Asia and Vinson the highest in Antarctica, and that these two are the most difficult and perilous. Vinson is much less of a technical challenge, you spend little time in the "death zone" above 4000 m, but it's the isolation, the logistics, and the literally perishing cold. * While virtually no traveller ever visits Antarctica for its religious buildings, there are several '''[[churches in Antarctica]]'''. Some tours will stop at one of them. == Buy == There isn't much to buy in Antarctica, and most of the shops are small gift shops and souvenir shops. The largest shop is McMurdo's General Store, which would probably provide you with just about anything you will need in Antarctica. Coming to the Antarctic marks you as a high-roller; at the very least you'll get some surprising junk-mail and pop-ups. Some cruise passengers have experienced "presentations" that were just pressure-selling of flaky investments, fine wines the quality of filling station Chardonnay, and kitsch artwork and antiques. This is not common on Antarctic cruises, whose passengers are more savvy than most, but as ever ''caveat emptor''. == Eat == [[File:Penguin_in_Antarctica_jumping_out_of_the_water.jpg | thumb | 300px | Don't eat penguins, that's the leopard seals' job]] Take advice from your trip organizer on what supplies to bring. You need sufficient and some spare, but not excess which creates deadweight. Take suitable nutritional advice before extended shore trips. The main risk to the average cruise passenger is pigging out at the ship's buffet. If you're living and working on land, though, you'll find you have quite an appetite; the extra manual labor and cold temperatures result in average calorie intake nearly double of normal. Most food at bases is frozen, dried, canned, or otherwise preserved. It's all ordered in advance and delivered just once a year around January. Fresh produce is limited, and is typically flown into bases weekly for around two months (around Nov-Dec). A large station may have a cook who can work wonderful variations on the same old pasta; small places may just have a microwave. A few bases are experimenting with indoor greenhouses where they grow fresh produce to prepare future long-term space missions or the supply of Moon or Mars bases. While the food produced is a very welcome break from the same-old for the crew, it's far too little to last the winter. In the field, food must be carried or otherwise transported. It needs to be compact, energy-rich, and dry; anything liquid will freeze solid. Re-hydrating it may be a bigger challenge than heating it. Large campsites may be set up with a makeshift "kitchen" using camping equipment, or even more complete facilities including a range, oven, and even a grill; food at these will be improvised but still pretty decent. The smallest campsites and mobile teams will have to subsist on camping rations including energy bars, pemmican (a dried paste of meat, fruit, and animal fat), and highly-coveted chocolate bars. '''Don't eat the wildlife:''' penguins, seals, bird's eggs, anything... even if it was already dead when you found it. It's illegal due to the treaty, which seeks to protect Antarctic wildlife after 200 years of over-hunting and environmental damage. Equally, don't feed them, however woebegone-cute they look, though there's no rule against leopard seals (''Hydrurga leptonyx'') eating you. It's very rare for them to try, what they're more likely to do is attack and puncture the pontoon floats of your RIB, mistaking their cylindrical black shape for seals. == Drink == [[File:091130 grytviken 2994 (4173376088).jpg | thumb | 300px | "Any note you can sing, I can sing higher" ]] '''Drinking water''' requires forethought. In summer near the coast there may be freshwater lakes, but they're full of bird poop plus the odd decomposing penguin. Most of the continent is covered in snow and permafrost, but it must be collected and thawed, both of which take a lot of energy. Meltwater is low in minerals and tastes very flat; you may prefer yours with a dash of salt or syrup. As in any cold climate, '''never drink alcohol until you are safely in shelter'''. It's notorious for generating a false glow of warmth and well-being while your core body temperature ebbs away. Rules for alcohol vary by base, but it's usually available at bases' general stores and bars. == Sleep == Antarctica has very long summer days, 24-hour long within the Antarctic circle. Try to maintain regular sleeping hours, as this continuous daylight disturbs the body clock. There are no hotels or lodges, and research bases won't house tourists. Most visitors sleep aboard their ship, while inland trips (e.g. to the Pole) have camps set up. == Work == It is possible to obtain employment with scientific expeditions and research bases in Antarctica, but there's stiff competition for the small number of posts, only open to citizens of the relevant country. Posts are fixed-term contracts with induction and training before departure for Antarctica. Most positions are summer-only, and less than 10% of staff stay on over winter. Staffing agencies include [https://www.leidos.com/antarctica Antarctic Support Contract] for the US, the [https://jobs.antarctica.gov.au/ Australian Antarctic Program] for Australia, [http://www.antarctica.ac.uk/employment/index.php British Antarctic Survey]{{Dead link|date=December 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} for the UK, [https://www.antarcticanz.govt.nz/jobs Antarctica NZ] for New Zealand, and [https://www.sanap.ac.za/tag/jobs South African National Antarctic Programme] for South Africa. They also recruit for Subantarctic sites such as South Georgia, Gough and Macquarie. == Stay safe == [[File:Mount Erebus, Antarctica; the volcano in eruption. Chromolit Wellcome V0025210.jpg | thumb | 300px | Eruption of Mount Erebus ]] {{See also|Cold weather}} Antarctica is an extreme environment, and accidents are unavoidable. Weigh up the risks and your own abilities before committing to a trip. '''By sea''' is how most visitors arrive. The southern oceans are never calm, and often very rough even in summer, with hurricane-force winds and 20 m / 70 ft waves. The ship is designed to handle this so your main risks are three days of upchucking, being thrown about, falling down a stair well, or having heavy doors or items crash into you. Always have one secure handhold, and in severe weather stay in your cabin. Trips won't venture ashore in poor weather but it may deteriorate: be extremely cautious when returning in a zodiac and follow crew instructions on when to hold still and when to cross onto the landing stage. If you fall in, your survival time in these waters is less than a minute. '''It's cold''' even on the continental fringes where most visitors go. Most cruises focus on the Antarctic Peninsula and only travel during the warmest months (late October to March). Temperatures are typically around freezing and can drop much lower, so be prepared. Standard cold-weather gear won't suffice for polar conditions: it needs to be thermally protective, wind- and water-proof, yet still allow good mobility. Seek advice from the trip organiser, and don't assume that anything will be available on ship. But conversely, the operator may prefer to issue everyone with standard kit that they know is reliable. Keeping feet warm is important on a cruise, especially when taking zodiac cruises where you won't be moving very much, taking plenty of wool socks is recommended. '''It's even colder and at high altitude inland''', even if you're not mountaineering: the South Pole is at 2835 m / 9301 ft. '''Intense sunlight''' and no shelter from it: you need sunglasses and 40+ factor sunblock. '''You need to be healthy and moderately fit.''' If you have a long-term condition such as diabetes it needs to be very well controlled: you're going to be in a stressful environment with lots of disruption to diet, activity, and day / night cycle. A medical evacuation could take days to effect and costs could approach US$1 million. '''Altogether, it's hazardous yet safe''', so to speak. For sure you need adequate travel / medical insurance, and an annual multi-trip policy is often the best value. This should cover a cruise with shore trips, but might exclude anything beyond. Travel insurers are generally relaxed about standard Antarctic tourist trips - indeed in 2020 one insurer offered the chance to win such a trip if you took out a policy with them. So they're not seeing many claims. Antarctic travellers are healthy and switched on, they pay attention to safety briefings and are not befuddled by alcohol, herbal tobacco or hormonal bravado - altogether they're a safer group than the average ski chalet party. == Respect == [[File:Mount Vinson from NW at Vinson Plateau by Christian Stangl (flickr).jpg | thumb | 300px | Mount Vinson, the "seventh summit" ]] Antarctica has a '''very fragile environment'''. Penguins live at the very limit of what is survivable and are especially vulnerable in the brooding / hatching season. Some habitats have extra protection and you may not enter these. '''Interfering with wildlife''' is illegal and discouraged. Unless you're a trained researcher, don't approach wildlife closely, and even when viewing from a distance try not to surround animals which might confuse or frighten them. At the same time, '''don't feed or help animals''' even if they would die without your help; if you did, it would interfere with the "survival of the fittest" and would have negative long-term consequences. '''Leave no trash.''' Antarctic treaties require the equivalent of [[leave-no-trace camping]]. Waste disposal and sewage facilities ashore are severely limited and restricted to permanent bases; researchers in field campsites must pack everything out, including human waste. Practice good hygiene and follow any bio-security advice given, e.g. on boot washing. There's scant risk of introducing a blight upon the Antarctic apple harvest, but you don't want to be trailing penguin poop back to the ship's buffet, or catching norovirus in the washrooms. The [http://www.iaato.org/ International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators] (IAATO) is a voluntary organization of tour operators which promotes safe and environmentally responsible tourism in Antarctica. It publishes standards for its members on responsible conduct of visits. == Connect == The top-level Internet domain for Antarctic sites, '''.aq''', is assigned to organizations that conduct work in Antarctica or signatory governments to the Antarctic Treaty. Generally, its servers are hosted elsewhere as '''Internet access in Antarctica is quite limited'''. There are no undersea cables to Antarctica; all Internet is provided by satellites, which have limited bandwidth and high latency. Bandwidth is prioritized for scientific research (and even so, for large scientific uploads it's faster to mail a thumb drive), leaving even less for personal use. All websites are slow (especially social media sites, which are throttled because they're in such high demand). Uploading selfies is okay, but video calls, streaming video, and most online gaming is impossible. Only a few sites in Antarctica have '''mobile phone service'''. Argentina's Marambia Base has 4G LTE, while the Chilean, Uruguayan, Australian, and Finnish bases have 2G GSM. Everywhere else, you would have to rely on satellite phones. Along parts of the coast, some services like Inmarsat would work, but as you get further inland, most satellites drop below the horizon. At those latitudes, Iridium [[satellite phone]]s are the only ones that will work, and they should work excellently since the poles are where the orbits of every satellite overlap. Globalstar does not work (as of 2020) as its satellites can only relay to a nearby ground station, of which there are none close enough to the South Pole; even coverage near South America has been out of commission since 2015. '''Post offices''' are few and far between, but you can send home a postcard (with a truly unique postmark) from the Chilean town of Villa Las Estrellas on King George Island, or from the former British base of Port Lockroy, or from the US or NZ post offices at McMurdo on Ross Island. {{geo|-77.700 |0.010 |zoom=3}} {{usablecontinent}} 2k390rhgh500w59oraj7ejhbqtna4ot 0 4209 5288943 5283569 2026-06-06T22:28:40Z BrodieG99 2419268 Added railcard info and made grammar edits 5288943 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bolton banner.jpg|pgname=Bolton|disambig=yes}} '''Bolton''' is a large town in [[Greater Manchester]] in the [[North West England|North-West of England]], 17 miles north of Manchester city centre. It celebrates its industrial heritage of canals, coal, cotton, and railways. The borough includes several small towns, notably Blackrod, Farnworth, Heaton, Horwich, Little Lever and Westhoughton. == Understand == [[File:Bolton Town Hall.jpg|thumb|Bolton Town Hall]] [[File:Mule-jenny.jpg|thumb|This ''Spinning Mule'' is the only one in existence made by the inventor Samuel Crompton. It can be found in the collection of Bolton Museum and Archive Service.]] Bolton grew rapidly as a textile and metal-bashing town during the 18th & 19th centuries. The ''Spinning Mule'' was invented here: it spun yarn into cotton thread faster and more efficiently than earlier processes, to feed the great hungry looms, and in its heyday there were 50 million Mules in Lancashire alone. A few were still in use for specialist fine yarns until the 1980s, but the Lancashire cotton trade collapsed in the 1950s, unable to compete with cheap imports. Bolton and similar towns slumped. In 1974 Manchester and its surrounding towns, including Bolton, were separated from Lancashire and became Greater Manchester. Bolton is nowadays mainly a commuter town for the big city. With a population in 2011 of 194,189 Bolton may well be "the biggest town in Britain" but its bids to be recognised as a city itself continue to be rebuffed. The town's traditional dialect is more "Lanky" (Lancashire) than Mancunian. You're unlikely nowadays to hear "thee / tha / thi" for "you / your" unless ironically, but you might hear "owt" (anything), "nowt" (nothing), "summat" (something) and "reeght" (right). Thus, a trivial matter is dismissed as "summat 'n nowt." Residents of Westhoughton are dubbed ''Keawyeds'' - cow heads; there's a bovine legend about this but it's probably from their victory banquet after Waterloo in 1815, when they roasted an ox and paraded the skull as "Old Boney". *[http://www.visitbolton.com/ Visit Bolton] tourist information. ==Get in== '''By plane:''' [http://www.manchesterairport.co.uk/ Manchester Airport] ({{IATA|MAN}}) has a huge range of flights. An hourly direct train from the airport takes 40 min to Bolton, otherwise change at Manchester Oxford Road. [[File:Bolton station platform 1 - geograph.org.uk - 823777.jpg|thumb|300px|Bolton Interchange]] '''Trains''' run by Northern travel to Bolton frequently from [[Manchester Victoria]] and [[Manchester Piccadilly]], 20 min, with a walk-up single costing less than £5. The train from the airport continues north from Bolton to Horwich Parkway, [[Preston]], [[Lancaster (England) | Lancaster]], [[Carlisle]] and [[Glasgow]] or [[Edinburgh]]. Bolton has two trains per hour from [[Blackpool]] via [[Preston]], and two per hour from [[Wigan]]. Railcards are available from National Rail to reduce train fares. {{marker|type=go |name=[http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations_destinations/BON.aspx Bolton Interchange] | lat=53.573 |long=-2.425 }} is central, 5mins walk from the Town Hall. {{marker | name=Horwich Parkway | type=go | lat=53.578 | long=-2.540 }} is next to Bolton Wanderers football ground and Middlebrook retail park. There are also small station halts at Lostock, Westhoughton, Hindley, Daisy Hill, Blackrod (for Horwich town) and Hall i' th' Wood. '''By bus:''' National Express runs three times a day direct from London Victoria, taking six hours. From Manchester, Bus 8 runs from Shudehill Interchange every ten min, taking 50 min (don't use Bus 37, which takes 90 min). There are also frequent but slow buses to Bolton from [[Salford]], [[Bury]], [[Rochdale]], [[Blackburn]], [[Preston]], [[Chorley]] and [[Wigan]]. The bus station is attached to the north side of the railway station. '''By car''' for town centre exit M60 / M61 onto A666. For the football stadium stay on M61 to jcn 6. ==Get around== {{Mapframe | 53.570 | -2.450 | zoom=11 | height=500 | width=500 }} Bolton is not on the Greater Manchester tram network, so use the bus for outlying places. Bus 525 runs to Hall i' th' Wood. Buses passing near Bolton Wanderers football ground are the 505, 575, 915, 918 and 996, or you can take the train to Horwich Parkway. ==See== [[File:Bolton Civic Centre1.jpg|thumb|300px|Le Mans Crescent houses the museum and library]] * {{marker | type=see | name=Bolton Town Hall | lat=53.578 | long=-2.430 }}, opened in 1873, is a confident statement of municipal pride, in neoclassical style with a baroque clock tower. Leeds and Portsmouth city halls were built to the same pattern. The elegant Le Mans Crescent behind was added in the 1930s. * {{see | name=Museum, Art Gallery and Aquarium | alt= | url=http://www.boltonlams.co.uk/museum | email= | address=Le Mans Crescent BL1 1SL | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=by Town Hall | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 10AM-4PM | price=Free | wikipedia=Bolton Museum | wikidata=Q4940210 | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=Visitors particularly enjoy the Ancient Egyptian collection. There's an aquarium in the basement. }} * The famous '''Fish and Veg Market''', the newly developed '''Market Hall''' and Churchgate are worth visiting. * '''Bolton Parish Church''' is Victorian. Samuel Crompton lies in the graveyard. * {{see | name=Bolton Steam Museum | alt= | url=https://www.nmes.org/ | email= | address=Mornington Rd BL1 4EU | lat=53.5850 | long=-2.4546 | directions= | phone=+44 1204 846490 | tollfree= | hours=W, Su 11AM-3PM | price=Donation | lastedit=2025-02-11 | content=Grand collection of static textile mill engines. }} * {{see | name=Hall i' th' Wood | alt= | url=http://www.boltonlams.co.uk/historic-halls/hall-i-th-wood-history | email= | address=Crompton Way BL1 8UH | lat=53.600 | long=-2.419 | directions=a mile north of Bolton off A58 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Mar-Oct: Tu 10AM-4PM, Sa noon-4PM | price= | wikipedia=Hall i' th' Wood | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=16th-century mansion, timber-framed with stone additions, used not as a single home but as multiple lets for 17th- and 18th-century cottage industry. One of those occupants was Samuel Compton, who designed his "Spinning Mule" here. This helped textile processes grow bigger and bigger, into "dark satanic mills", and the days of cottage industry were ended. The Hall fell into disrepair but was bought up by Lord Leverhulme the "Sunlight Soap" tycoon, who gifted it to the town. }} * {{marker | type=see | name=Prestolee Aqueduct | lat=53.553 | long=-2.377 }} is a four-arched stone aqueduct built in 1793 to carry the Manchester, Bolton & Bury Canal over the River Irwell. The canal climbed from Manchester over Pendleton to Prestolee where it branched, to Bolton and to Bury. This section is still in water and you can walk along the towpath but it's not navigable: work is under way to partly restore it. [[Image:Turton Tower.jpg | thumb | 300px | Turton Tower]] * {{see | name=Turton Tower | alt= | url=http://www.turtontower.co.uk/ | email= | address=Chapeltown BL7 0HG | lat=53.633 | long=-2.4075 | directions=On hill 4 miles north of Bolton on B6391 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Mar-Oct: W-Su 10AM-4PM | price=Adult £6 | wikipedia=Turton Tower | wikidata=Q7856488 | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=Odd-looking building, which started out as a 15th-century pele tower, then a stone mansion was added in late Tudor times. It was derelict by the 19th century but restored, with Dutch gables covering the stonework. With extensive gardens. It's nowadays within Blackburn, but is easiest accessed from Bolton, with Bromley Cross rwy station a mile or so south. }} * {{marker | type=see | name=[http://www.bhrmp.co.uk/ Holy Trinity Church] | lat=53.599 | long=-2.539 }} (Anglican) is in Horwich. Consecrated in 1831, it's an example of a "Commissioners' church" (aka a "Waterloo" or "Million Act" church). These were an initiative following the end of the Napoleonic wars to revive the decrepit Church of England, to be a national thank-offering for victory, and by Christian moral teaching to prevent a Jacobin-style revolution in Britain. ==Do== * {{Do|name=Octagon Theatre|url=https://octagonbolton.co.uk/|email=info@octagonbolton.co.uk|address=Howell Croft|lat=53.5773526|long=-2.43071370|directions=5 minute walk from bus and rail stations|phone=+44 1204 520661|lastedit=2022-11-30|content=Modern producing theatre with flexible (in-the-round, thrust, and end-stage) main stage supplemented by studio theatre. Touring productions and stand-up comedy supplement in-house productions.}} * '''Parks and countryside:''' central in town are Queen's Park and Moss Bank Park. : {{marker | name=Moses Gate Country Park | type=do | lat=53.5527 | long=-2.38033 }}, also known as Crompton Lodges, is on the Farnworth & Little Lever road. : {{marker | name=[http://westhoughtoncommunitynetwork.co.uk/eatocklodge.php Eatock Lodge] | type=do | lat=53.538103 | long=-2.530480 }} in Westhoughton is a small wooded nature reserve on "The Hoskers", a reclaimed colliery site. Also nearby is Cunningham Clough, a bosky gully with lots of scrubs for the dog to fossick in. * {{do | name=St Gregory's Social Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=13 Church Street, Farnworth BL4 8AG | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+44 1204 573168, +44 7513 897949 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 7-11:30PM, F-Su 5PM-midnight | price= | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=The one ''Phoenix Nights'' was based on. It's variously a function suite for events like weddings and funerals, a TV sports venue for big matches, an event space and has visiting acts. }} * '''Football:''' {{marker | name=[https://www.bwfc.co.uk/ Bolton Wanderers] | type=do | lat=53.582 | long=-2.537 }} were promoted in 2026 so they now play soccer the Championship, the second tier. Their home ground (capacity 28,800) is called the "University of Bolton Stadium" but is better known as the Macron or Reebok. It's on Burnden Way BL6 6JW, next to Middlebrook retail park five miles west of town centre. * '''Walk in the West Pennine Moors'''. Their most prominent features Rivington Pike and Winter Hill TV mast are across the boundary with [[Chorley]]. Great views across the North West - on a clear day you can make out Blackpool Tower and the mountains of Wales. * {{do | name=Ironman UK Triathlon | alt= | url=https://www.ironman.com/im-uk | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=General entry from £550 | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-31 | content=Held in Bolton in early July. }} * '''[http://www.boltonfoodanddrinkfestival.com/ Bolton Food & Drink Festival]''' is held over the August bank holiday weekend. The next is expected to be in Aug 2023. == Buy == * Town centre retail areas are the Market Place (the former market hall) and Crompton Place (formerly the Arndale Centre). There's also a large Marks & Spencer on Deansgate. * The edge-of-town retail park is Middlebrook, near the football stadium towards Horwich. ==Eat== === Bolton === * {{eat | name=Ye Olde Pastie Shoppe | alt= | url=http://yeoldepastieshoppe.com/ | email= | address=31 Churchgate BL1 1HU | lat= | long= | directions=corner of Bradshawgate | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-F 9AM-2:45PM | price= | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=A Bolton tradition, renowned for its pasties, which you can take into the pub across the street, "Ye Olde Man & Scythe Inn". }} * A strip of places on Bridge St include Nadii's Diner, Viva La Salsa, Jo's Grill House and Sake Sushi. * {{eat | name=Rice 'n' Three | alt= | url=http://www.ricenthree.co.uk/ | email= | address=80 Bradshawgate BL1 1QQ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 11AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=An independent curry house with good meat dishes and vegetarian options, inexpensive. They've another branch on Deane Road. }} === Horwich === * {{eat | name=Viva España | alt= | url=https://www.vivaespanauk.co.uk/ | email= | address=12 Winter Hey Lane BL6 7AA | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 438235 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 6-11PM | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Tapas but the portions are substantial, good value. }} * {{eat | name=Spice Valley | alt= | url=https://www.spicevalleyhorwich.co.uk/ | email=bookings@spicevalleyhorwich.co.uk | address=171 Lee Lane BL6 7JD | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 697222 | tollfree= | hours=M-F noon-2PM, 5-10:30, Sa 4-11, Su noon-9 | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Indian restaurant with consistently good quality, veggie options, buffet and à la carte. }} * {{eat | name=Thyme | alt= | url=http://thymedeli.co.uk/ | email= | address=4-6 Winter Hey Lane BL6 7AA | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 692555 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa shop 9AM-5PM, meals noon-3:30 | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Deli and café for light bites. }} * {{eat | name=Sokrates Taverna | url= | email= | address=80-84 Winter Hey Lane BL6 7NZ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 692100 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 5-11, F Sa 6PM-midnight, Su 3:30-10:30 | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Cheerful place with meze selections and à la carte. They've another branch in Sale. }} * Middlebrook retail park by the football stadium has a range of budget chain eateries, including Abacus Chinese, ASK Italian, Frankie & Benny's, and Nando's. ==Drink== [[File:Bolton Market Hall.jpg|thumb|300px|The renovated market hall]] === Bolton === * Bolton is home to an independent brewery, '''Bank Top'''. Their ales can be found in many local pubs and off-licences. * Other ales from the area include Lees (Middleton), Holts (Manchester), Hydes (Manchester) and Robinsons (Stockport). * {{drink | name=Ye Olde Man and Scythe | alt= | url= | email= | address=6-8 Churchgate Bolton BL1 1HL | lat=53.579562 | long=-2.426283 | directions= | phone=+44 1204 451237 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-12:30AM, Su noon-11PM | price= | lastedit=2022-11-30 | content=Old Long-established friendly pub, often has live music. Good beer and try the cider, you can bring in pasties from the shop opposite. Parts of pub date back to 1251. }} * {{drink | name=Barristers | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Bradshawgate Bolton BL1 1HJ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 365174 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 10AM-2AM, Th-Su 10AM-4AM | price= | lastedit=2020-01-26 | content=Good selection of cask ales, Saturday night is karaoke. }} * {{Drink|name=One For The Road|address=Bolton Market, Lifestyle Hall, Stalls F14 to F15 Ashburner Street.|lat=53.576672|long=-2.43312|phone=+44 7725 338773|hours=closed M, W & Su, 9:30AM-5:30PM|lastedit=2022-11-30|content=Bar located in busy market hall featuring real ales. Food available from various vendors.}} * {{Drink|name=Northern Monkey Bar|url=https://www.northernmonkeybrew.co.uk/|address=The Pack Horse, Nelson Square, Bolton BL1 1AQ|lat=53.577826|long=-2.427311|phone=+44 7737125629|hours=M closed, Tu-Th 4-10PM, F Sa noon-11PM, Su noon-9PM |lastedit=2022-11-30|content=Features beer from Bolton's Northern Monkey brewery & other craft beers. Pizzas served till 8PM.}} * {{Drink|name=Great Ale at the Vaults|address=Vaults Below Market Place, Bolton, BL1 2AL|lat=53.5812|long=-2.4298|directions=evening access from Corporation Street|phone=+44 1204 773548|hours=Su-Th 11AM-9PM, F Sa 11AM-11PM|lastedit=2022-11-30|content=Atmospheric bar in Victorian cellar of former market hall. Food available till 7PM.}} === Horwich === * {{drink | name=The Crown | alt= | url=https://www.joseph-holt.com/pubs/crown | email= | address=1 Chorley New Rd, Horwich BL6 7QJ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 690926 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 11AM-11:30PM, F Sa 9AM-midnight, Su 9AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Traditional pub, decent food, dog-friendly. }} * {{drink | name=The Old Original Bay Horse | alt= | url=https://oldoriginalbayhorse-horwich.craftunionpubs.com/ | email= | address=206 Lee Lane, Horwich BL6 7JF | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 696231 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th noon-11PM, F Sa noon-midnight | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Friendly staff, dogs welcome, beer garden. }} * {{drink | name=The Saddle | alt= | url=https://ambertaverns.co.uk/ | email= | address=55 Lee Lane, Horwich BL6 7AX | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 698889 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-11PM, F 10:00-midnight, Sa noon-midnight | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Good town centre pub, part of Amber Taverns chain. }} * {{drink | name=Sam's Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=28 Lee Lane, Horwich BL6 7BY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 669155 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Calls itself a "wine bar" but really a standard northern boozer, decent prices but mixed reviews for ambiance. }} * {{drink | name=Blundell Arms | alt= | url=http://www.chefandbrewer.com/pub/blundell-arms-horwich-bolton/p1527/ | email= | address=Chorley Old Road, Horwich BL6 6PY | lat=53.595 | long=-2.506 | directions=B6226 | phone=+44 1204 841194 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 11:30AM-11PM, Sa 10AM-11PM, Su 10AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Pub on the hill between Bolton and Horwich, does good Sunday roasts. }} === Elsewhere === * {{drink | name=House Without A Name | alt=The No-Name | url=http://www.housewithoutaname.co.uk/ | email= | address=75-77 Lea Gate, Bolton BL2 3ET | lat=53.606 | long=-2.398 | directions=3 miles north of Bolton on B6196 | phone=+44 1204 433568 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th noon-12:30PM, F Sa noon-1:30AM | price= | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=The area's standout pub with brilliant ales, regulars are Joseph Holt Bitter and Sharp's Doom. Bar food, quiz night Mons. }} * '''Farnworth''' has the Railway (aka Moses Gate) and Shakespeare. * '''Westhoughton''' has the White Lion, The Victoria, Wheatsheaf, The Robert Shaw (Weatherspoons), Rose & Crown (formerly Howfener) and White Horse. * '''Wingates''' has Waggon & Horses and The Royal Oak. * '''Daisy Hill''' has Rosehill Tavern and Grey Man; and '''Over Hulton''' has Red Lion and Hulton Arms. * '''Lostock''' has Beehive Carvery. ==Learn== Bolton is home to the University of Bolton (formerly Bolton Institute). ==Sleep== [[File:Prestolee aqueduct panorama.jpg | thumb | 300px | Prestolee Aqueduct]] === Bolton === * {{sleep | name=Travelodge Bolton Central | alt= | url=https://www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/529/Bolton-Central-River-Street-hotel | email= | address=River Street, Bolton BL2 1BX | lat=53.5759090 | long=-2.420692261 | directions=jcn A579 & A666 | phone=+44 871 984 6520 (premium rate number from mobiles) | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double around £89 | lastedit=2022-11-30 | content=Well-run budget chain hotel, clean and friendly. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Bolton Centre | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/hotels/gb/en/reservation | email= | address=1 Higher Bridge Street, Bolton BL1 2EW | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 879988 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double room only £55 | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=Clean & comfy place, very central, decor could use a spruce. }} * {{sleep | name=Mercury Bolton Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.themercurybolton.com/ | email= | address=540 Manchester Rd, Westhoughton BL5 3JP | lat=53.551778 | long=-2.503290 | directions=near M61 jcn 5 | phone=+44 1942 810904 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=10AM | price=B&B double £50 | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=Claims to be Britain's oldest motel, and looks it. Budget place, sometimes clean. }} * {{sleep | name=Last Drop Village Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.lastdropvillage.co.uk/ | email= | address=Hospital Rd, Bromley Cross BL7 9BZ | lat= | long= | directions=4 miles north of Bolton centre | phone=+44 1204 873500 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double room only £80 | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=Good hotel & spa at north edge of city. }} === Horwich === : These are clustered around Bolton Wanderers football ground and Middlebrook retail park, with nothing in Horwich: * {{sleep | name=Bolton Whites | alt= | url=https://www.boltonwhiteshotel.co.uk/ | email=info@boltonwhiteshotel.co.uk | address=De Havilland Way BL6 6SF | lat= | long= | directions=adjoins the football stadium | phone=+44 1204 673610 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) £90 | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Good convenient hotel. Pricey for what you get, but close to stadium, eateries in Middlebrook retail park and M61. }} * {{sleep | name=Premier Inn Bolton Stadium | alt= | url=https://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/hotels/england/greater-manchester/bolton/bolton-stadiumarena.html | email= | address=3 Arena Approach BL6 6LB | lat= | long= | directions=100 yards west of football ground | phone=+44 333 777 3925 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) £40, breakfast £10 pp | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Comfy budget chain between stadium and Horwich Parkway station. }} * '''Premier Inn Bolton West''' is quarter of a mile east of the stadium on A673 Chorley New Road, with similar prices and quality. * {{sleep | name=Mercure Bolton Georgian House Hotel | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/8327/index.en.shtml | email= | address=Manchester Road, Blackrod BL6 5RU | lat=53.576 | long=-2.560 | directions=near jcn 6 of M61 | phone=+44 1942 330012 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £55 | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Okay-ish franchise hotel, the catering is often substandard and it can get noisy when they have a party in. }} * Rivington Pike M61 service area west of Horwich has accommodation, but there's no direct access to town. ==Connect== As of June 2021, Bolton has 4G from O2 and Three, and 5G from EE and Vodafone. ==Stay safe== In an emergency call '''999''' or '''112''' for Police, Ambulance, Fire Service or Coastguard. Call '''101''' to report concerns to the Police that do not require an emergency response. ==Go next== * '''[[Manchester]]''' is an unmissable lively city, an easy day trip from Bolton. {{routebox | image1=BR_logo.svg | imagesize1=40 | directionl1=NW | majorl1=[[Preston]] | minorl1=[[Chorley]] | directionr1=SE | majorr1=[[Manchester]] | minorr1=[[Salford]] | image2=UK-Motorway-M61.svg | imagesize2=50 | directionl2=NW | majorl2=[[Glasgow]] | minorl2=Horwich | directionr2=SE | majorr2=[[Manchester]] | minorr2=[[Salford]] | image3=UK road A58.svg | imagesize3=40 | directionl3=W | majorl3=[[Wigan]] | minorl3= | directionr3=E | minorr3=[[Bury]] | majorr3=[[Rochdale]] }} {{geo|53.578|-2.429}} {{IsPartOf|Greater Manchester}} {{usablecity}} ebmsgjvp7w69ssm15bwrfb8zeqygldc 5288944 5288943 2026-06-06T22:31:17Z BrodieG99 2419268 /* Get in */ added accessibility information and edited grammar 5288944 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bolton banner.jpg|pgname=Bolton|disambig=yes}} '''Bolton''' is a large town in [[Greater Manchester]] in the [[North West England|North-West of England]], 17 miles north of Manchester city centre. It celebrates its industrial heritage of canals, coal, cotton, and railways. The borough includes several small towns, notably Blackrod, Farnworth, Heaton, Horwich, Little Lever and Westhoughton. == Understand == [[File:Bolton Town Hall.jpg|thumb|Bolton Town Hall]] [[File:Mule-jenny.jpg|thumb|This ''Spinning Mule'' is the only one in existence made by the inventor Samuel Crompton. It can be found in the collection of Bolton Museum and Archive Service.]] Bolton grew rapidly as a textile and metal-bashing town during the 18th & 19th centuries. The ''Spinning Mule'' was invented here: it spun yarn into cotton thread faster and more efficiently than earlier processes, to feed the great hungry looms, and in its heyday there were 50 million Mules in Lancashire alone. A few were still in use for specialist fine yarns until the 1980s, but the Lancashire cotton trade collapsed in the 1950s, unable to compete with cheap imports. Bolton and similar towns slumped. In 1974 Manchester and its surrounding towns, including Bolton, were separated from Lancashire and became Greater Manchester. Bolton is nowadays mainly a commuter town for the big city. With a population in 2011 of 194,189 Bolton may well be "the biggest town in Britain" but its bids to be recognised as a city itself continue to be rebuffed. The town's traditional dialect is more "Lanky" (Lancashire) than Mancunian. You're unlikely nowadays to hear "thee / tha / thi" for "you / your" unless ironically, but you might hear "owt" (anything), "nowt" (nothing), "summat" (something) and "reeght" (right). Thus, a trivial matter is dismissed as "summat 'n nowt." Residents of Westhoughton are dubbed ''Keawyeds'' - cow heads; there's a bovine legend about this but it's probably from their victory banquet after Waterloo in 1815, when they roasted an ox and paraded the skull as "Old Boney". *[http://www.visitbolton.com/ Visit Bolton] tourist information. ==Get in== '''By plane:''' [http://www.manchesterairport.co.uk/ Manchester Airport] ({{IATA|MAN}}) has a huge range of flights. An hourly direct train from the airport takes 40 min to Bolton, otherwise change at Manchester Oxford Road. [[File:Bolton station platform 1 - geograph.org.uk - 823777.jpg|thumb|300px|Bolton Interchange]] '''Trains''' run by Northern travel to Bolton frequently from [[Manchester Victoria]] and [[Manchester Piccadilly]], 20 min, with a walk-up single costing less than £5. The train from the airport continues north from Bolton to Horwich Parkway, [[Preston]], [[Lancaster (England) | Lancaster]], [[Carlisle]] and [[Glasgow]] or [[Edinburgh]]. Bolton has two trains per hour from [[Blackpool]] via [[Preston]], and two per hour from [[Wigan]]. Railcards are available from National Rail to reduce train fares. {{marker|type=go |name=[http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations_destinations/BON.aspx Bolton Interchange] | lat=53.573 |long=-2.425 }} is central, 5mins walk from the Town Hall. {{marker | name=Horwich Parkway | type=go | lat=53.578 | long=-2.540 }} is next to Bolton Wanderers football ground and Middlebrook retail park. There are also small station halts at Lostock, Westhoughton, Hindley, Daisy Hill, Blackrod (for Horwich town) and Hall i' th' Wood. '''By bus:''' National Express runs three times a day direct from London Victoria, taking six hours. From Manchester, Bus 8 runs from Shudehill Interchange every ten min, taking 50 min (don't use Bus 37, which takes 90 min). There are also frequent but slow buses to Bolton from [[Salford]], [[Bury]], [[Rochdale]], [[Blackburn]], [[Preston]], [[Chorley]] and [[Wigan]]. The bus station is within Bolton Interchange to the side of the railway station. Both the train and bus stations are wheelchair accessible, alongside the buses and trains themselves (though trains require operator assistance for accessibility). '''By car''' for town centre exit M60 / M61 onto A666. For the football stadium stay on M61 to jcn 6. ==Get around== {{Mapframe | 53.570 | -2.450 | zoom=11 | height=500 | width=500 }} Bolton is not on the Greater Manchester tram network, so use the bus for outlying places. Bus 525 runs to Hall i' th' Wood. Buses passing near Bolton Wanderers football ground are the 505, 575, 915, 918 and 996, or you can take the train to Horwich Parkway. ==See== [[File:Bolton Civic Centre1.jpg|thumb|300px|Le Mans Crescent houses the museum and library]] * {{marker | type=see | name=Bolton Town Hall | lat=53.578 | long=-2.430 }}, opened in 1873, is a confident statement of municipal pride, in neoclassical style with a baroque clock tower. Leeds and Portsmouth city halls were built to the same pattern. The elegant Le Mans Crescent behind was added in the 1930s. * {{see | name=Museum, Art Gallery and Aquarium | alt= | url=http://www.boltonlams.co.uk/museum | email= | address=Le Mans Crescent BL1 1SL | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=by Town Hall | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 10AM-4PM | price=Free | wikipedia=Bolton Museum | wikidata=Q4940210 | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=Visitors particularly enjoy the Ancient Egyptian collection. There's an aquarium in the basement. }} * The famous '''Fish and Veg Market''', the newly developed '''Market Hall''' and Churchgate are worth visiting. * '''Bolton Parish Church''' is Victorian. Samuel Crompton lies in the graveyard. * {{see | name=Bolton Steam Museum | alt= | url=https://www.nmes.org/ | email= | address=Mornington Rd BL1 4EU | lat=53.5850 | long=-2.4546 | directions= | phone=+44 1204 846490 | tollfree= | hours=W, Su 11AM-3PM | price=Donation | lastedit=2025-02-11 | content=Grand collection of static textile mill engines. }} * {{see | name=Hall i' th' Wood | alt= | url=http://www.boltonlams.co.uk/historic-halls/hall-i-th-wood-history | email= | address=Crompton Way BL1 8UH | lat=53.600 | long=-2.419 | directions=a mile north of Bolton off A58 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Mar-Oct: Tu 10AM-4PM, Sa noon-4PM | price= | wikipedia=Hall i' th' Wood | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=16th-century mansion, timber-framed with stone additions, used not as a single home but as multiple lets for 17th- and 18th-century cottage industry. One of those occupants was Samuel Compton, who designed his "Spinning Mule" here. This helped textile processes grow bigger and bigger, into "dark satanic mills", and the days of cottage industry were ended. The Hall fell into disrepair but was bought up by Lord Leverhulme the "Sunlight Soap" tycoon, who gifted it to the town. }} * {{marker | type=see | name=Prestolee Aqueduct | lat=53.553 | long=-2.377 }} is a four-arched stone aqueduct built in 1793 to carry the Manchester, Bolton & Bury Canal over the River Irwell. The canal climbed from Manchester over Pendleton to Prestolee where it branched, to Bolton and to Bury. This section is still in water and you can walk along the towpath but it's not navigable: work is under way to partly restore it. [[Image:Turton Tower.jpg | thumb | 300px | Turton Tower]] * {{see | name=Turton Tower | alt= | url=http://www.turtontower.co.uk/ | email= | address=Chapeltown BL7 0HG | lat=53.633 | long=-2.4075 | directions=On hill 4 miles north of Bolton on B6391 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Mar-Oct: W-Su 10AM-4PM | price=Adult £6 | wikipedia=Turton Tower | wikidata=Q7856488 | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=Odd-looking building, which started out as a 15th-century pele tower, then a stone mansion was added in late Tudor times. It was derelict by the 19th century but restored, with Dutch gables covering the stonework. With extensive gardens. It's nowadays within Blackburn, but is easiest accessed from Bolton, with Bromley Cross rwy station a mile or so south. }} * {{marker | type=see | name=[http://www.bhrmp.co.uk/ Holy Trinity Church] | lat=53.599 | long=-2.539 }} (Anglican) is in Horwich. Consecrated in 1831, it's an example of a "Commissioners' church" (aka a "Waterloo" or "Million Act" church). These were an initiative following the end of the Napoleonic wars to revive the decrepit Church of England, to be a national thank-offering for victory, and by Christian moral teaching to prevent a Jacobin-style revolution in Britain. ==Do== * {{Do|name=Octagon Theatre|url=https://octagonbolton.co.uk/|email=info@octagonbolton.co.uk|address=Howell Croft|lat=53.5773526|long=-2.43071370|directions=5 minute walk from bus and rail stations|phone=+44 1204 520661|lastedit=2022-11-30|content=Modern producing theatre with flexible (in-the-round, thrust, and end-stage) main stage supplemented by studio theatre. Touring productions and stand-up comedy supplement in-house productions.}} * '''Parks and countryside:''' central in town are Queen's Park and Moss Bank Park. : {{marker | name=Moses Gate Country Park | type=do | lat=53.5527 | long=-2.38033 }}, also known as Crompton Lodges, is on the Farnworth & Little Lever road. : {{marker | name=[http://westhoughtoncommunitynetwork.co.uk/eatocklodge.php Eatock Lodge] | type=do | lat=53.538103 | long=-2.530480 }} in Westhoughton is a small wooded nature reserve on "The Hoskers", a reclaimed colliery site. Also nearby is Cunningham Clough, a bosky gully with lots of scrubs for the dog to fossick in. * {{do | name=St Gregory's Social Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=13 Church Street, Farnworth BL4 8AG | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+44 1204 573168, +44 7513 897949 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 7-11:30PM, F-Su 5PM-midnight | price= | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=The one ''Phoenix Nights'' was based on. It's variously a function suite for events like weddings and funerals, a TV sports venue for big matches, an event space and has visiting acts. }} * '''Football:''' {{marker | name=[https://www.bwfc.co.uk/ Bolton Wanderers] | type=do | lat=53.582 | long=-2.537 }} were promoted in 2026 so they now play soccer the Championship, the second tier. Their home ground (capacity 28,800) is called the "University of Bolton Stadium" but is better known as the Macron or Reebok. It's on Burnden Way BL6 6JW, next to Middlebrook retail park five miles west of town centre. * '''Walk in the West Pennine Moors'''. Their most prominent features Rivington Pike and Winter Hill TV mast are across the boundary with [[Chorley]]. Great views across the North West - on a clear day you can make out Blackpool Tower and the mountains of Wales. * {{do | name=Ironman UK Triathlon | alt= | url=https://www.ironman.com/im-uk | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=General entry from £550 | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-31 | content=Held in Bolton in early July. }} * '''[http://www.boltonfoodanddrinkfestival.com/ Bolton Food & Drink Festival]''' is held over the August bank holiday weekend. The next is expected to be in Aug 2023. == Buy == * Town centre retail areas are the Market Place (the former market hall) and Crompton Place (formerly the Arndale Centre). There's also a large Marks & Spencer on Deansgate. * The edge-of-town retail park is Middlebrook, near the football stadium towards Horwich. ==Eat== === Bolton === * {{eat | name=Ye Olde Pastie Shoppe | alt= | url=http://yeoldepastieshoppe.com/ | email= | address=31 Churchgate BL1 1HU | lat= | long= | directions=corner of Bradshawgate | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-F 9AM-2:45PM | price= | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=A Bolton tradition, renowned for its pasties, which you can take into the pub across the street, "Ye Olde Man & Scythe Inn". }} * A strip of places on Bridge St include Nadii's Diner, Viva La Salsa, Jo's Grill House and Sake Sushi. * {{eat | name=Rice 'n' Three | alt= | url=http://www.ricenthree.co.uk/ | email= | address=80 Bradshawgate BL1 1QQ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 11AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=An independent curry house with good meat dishes and vegetarian options, inexpensive. They've another branch on Deane Road. }} === Horwich === * {{eat | name=Viva España | alt= | url=https://www.vivaespanauk.co.uk/ | email= | address=12 Winter Hey Lane BL6 7AA | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 438235 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 6-11PM | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Tapas but the portions are substantial, good value. }} * {{eat | name=Spice Valley | alt= | url=https://www.spicevalleyhorwich.co.uk/ | email=bookings@spicevalleyhorwich.co.uk | address=171 Lee Lane BL6 7JD | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 697222 | tollfree= | hours=M-F noon-2PM, 5-10:30, Sa 4-11, Su noon-9 | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Indian restaurant with consistently good quality, veggie options, buffet and à la carte. }} * {{eat | name=Thyme | alt= | url=http://thymedeli.co.uk/ | email= | address=4-6 Winter Hey Lane BL6 7AA | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 692555 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa shop 9AM-5PM, meals noon-3:30 | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Deli and café for light bites. }} * {{eat | name=Sokrates Taverna | url= | email= | address=80-84 Winter Hey Lane BL6 7NZ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 692100 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 5-11, F Sa 6PM-midnight, Su 3:30-10:30 | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Cheerful place with meze selections and à la carte. They've another branch in Sale. }} * Middlebrook retail park by the football stadium has a range of budget chain eateries, including Abacus Chinese, ASK Italian, Frankie & Benny's, and Nando's. ==Drink== [[File:Bolton Market Hall.jpg|thumb|300px|The renovated market hall]] === Bolton === * Bolton is home to an independent brewery, '''Bank Top'''. Their ales can be found in many local pubs and off-licences. * Other ales from the area include Lees (Middleton), Holts (Manchester), Hydes (Manchester) and Robinsons (Stockport). * {{drink | name=Ye Olde Man and Scythe | alt= | url= | email= | address=6-8 Churchgate Bolton BL1 1HL | lat=53.579562 | long=-2.426283 | directions= | phone=+44 1204 451237 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-12:30AM, Su noon-11PM | price= | lastedit=2022-11-30 | content=Old Long-established friendly pub, often has live music. Good beer and try the cider, you can bring in pasties from the shop opposite. Parts of pub date back to 1251. }} * {{drink | name=Barristers | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Bradshawgate Bolton BL1 1HJ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 365174 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 10AM-2AM, Th-Su 10AM-4AM | price= | lastedit=2020-01-26 | content=Good selection of cask ales, Saturday night is karaoke. }} * {{Drink|name=One For The Road|address=Bolton Market, Lifestyle Hall, Stalls F14 to F15 Ashburner Street.|lat=53.576672|long=-2.43312|phone=+44 7725 338773|hours=closed M, W & Su, 9:30AM-5:30PM|lastedit=2022-11-30|content=Bar located in busy market hall featuring real ales. Food available from various vendors.}} * {{Drink|name=Northern Monkey Bar|url=https://www.northernmonkeybrew.co.uk/|address=The Pack Horse, Nelson Square, Bolton BL1 1AQ|lat=53.577826|long=-2.427311|phone=+44 7737125629|hours=M closed, Tu-Th 4-10PM, F Sa noon-11PM, Su noon-9PM |lastedit=2022-11-30|content=Features beer from Bolton's Northern Monkey brewery & other craft beers. Pizzas served till 8PM.}} * {{Drink|name=Great Ale at the Vaults|address=Vaults Below Market Place, Bolton, BL1 2AL|lat=53.5812|long=-2.4298|directions=evening access from Corporation Street|phone=+44 1204 773548|hours=Su-Th 11AM-9PM, F Sa 11AM-11PM|lastedit=2022-11-30|content=Atmospheric bar in Victorian cellar of former market hall. Food available till 7PM.}} === Horwich === * {{drink | name=The Crown | alt= | url=https://www.joseph-holt.com/pubs/crown | email= | address=1 Chorley New Rd, Horwich BL6 7QJ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 690926 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 11AM-11:30PM, F Sa 9AM-midnight, Su 9AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Traditional pub, decent food, dog-friendly. }} * {{drink | name=The Old Original Bay Horse | alt= | url=https://oldoriginalbayhorse-horwich.craftunionpubs.com/ | email= | address=206 Lee Lane, Horwich BL6 7JF | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 696231 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th noon-11PM, F Sa noon-midnight | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Friendly staff, dogs welcome, beer garden. }} * {{drink | name=The Saddle | alt= | url=https://ambertaverns.co.uk/ | email= | address=55 Lee Lane, Horwich BL6 7AX | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 698889 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-11PM, F 10:00-midnight, Sa noon-midnight | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Good town centre pub, part of Amber Taverns chain. }} * {{drink | name=Sam's Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=28 Lee Lane, Horwich BL6 7BY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 669155 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Calls itself a "wine bar" but really a standard northern boozer, decent prices but mixed reviews for ambiance. }} * {{drink | name=Blundell Arms | alt= | url=http://www.chefandbrewer.com/pub/blundell-arms-horwich-bolton/p1527/ | email= | address=Chorley Old Road, Horwich BL6 6PY | lat=53.595 | long=-2.506 | directions=B6226 | phone=+44 1204 841194 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 11:30AM-11PM, Sa 10AM-11PM, Su 10AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Pub on the hill between Bolton and Horwich, does good Sunday roasts. }} === Elsewhere === * {{drink | name=House Without A Name | alt=The No-Name | url=http://www.housewithoutaname.co.uk/ | email= | address=75-77 Lea Gate, Bolton BL2 3ET | lat=53.606 | long=-2.398 | directions=3 miles north of Bolton on B6196 | phone=+44 1204 433568 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th noon-12:30PM, F Sa noon-1:30AM | price= | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=The area's standout pub with brilliant ales, regulars are Joseph Holt Bitter and Sharp's Doom. Bar food, quiz night Mons. }} * '''Farnworth''' has the Railway (aka Moses Gate) and Shakespeare. * '''Westhoughton''' has the White Lion, The Victoria, Wheatsheaf, The Robert Shaw (Weatherspoons), Rose & Crown (formerly Howfener) and White Horse. * '''Wingates''' has Waggon & Horses and The Royal Oak. * '''Daisy Hill''' has Rosehill Tavern and Grey Man; and '''Over Hulton''' has Red Lion and Hulton Arms. * '''Lostock''' has Beehive Carvery. ==Learn== Bolton is home to the University of Bolton (formerly Bolton Institute). ==Sleep== [[File:Prestolee aqueduct panorama.jpg | thumb | 300px | Prestolee Aqueduct]] === Bolton === * {{sleep | name=Travelodge Bolton Central | alt= | url=https://www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/529/Bolton-Central-River-Street-hotel | email= | address=River Street, Bolton BL2 1BX | lat=53.5759090 | long=-2.420692261 | directions=jcn A579 & A666 | phone=+44 871 984 6520 (premium rate number from mobiles) | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double around £89 | lastedit=2022-11-30 | content=Well-run budget chain hotel, clean and friendly. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Bolton Centre | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/hotels/gb/en/reservation | email= | address=1 Higher Bridge Street, Bolton BL1 2EW | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 879988 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double room only £55 | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=Clean & comfy place, very central, decor could use a spruce. }} * {{sleep | name=Mercury Bolton Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.themercurybolton.com/ | email= | address=540 Manchester Rd, Westhoughton BL5 3JP | lat=53.551778 | long=-2.503290 | directions=near M61 jcn 5 | phone=+44 1942 810904 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=10AM | price=B&B double £50 | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=Claims to be Britain's oldest motel, and looks it. Budget place, sometimes clean. }} * {{sleep | name=Last Drop Village Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.lastdropvillage.co.uk/ | email= | address=Hospital Rd, Bromley Cross BL7 9BZ | lat= | long= | directions=4 miles north of Bolton centre | phone=+44 1204 873500 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double room only £80 | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=Good hotel & spa at north edge of city. }} === Horwich === : These are clustered around Bolton Wanderers football ground and Middlebrook retail park, with nothing in Horwich: * {{sleep | name=Bolton Whites | alt= | url=https://www.boltonwhiteshotel.co.uk/ | email=info@boltonwhiteshotel.co.uk | address=De Havilland Way BL6 6SF | lat= | long= | directions=adjoins the football stadium | phone=+44 1204 673610 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) £90 | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Good convenient hotel. Pricey for what you get, but close to stadium, eateries in Middlebrook retail park and M61. }} * {{sleep | name=Premier Inn Bolton Stadium | alt= | url=https://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/hotels/england/greater-manchester/bolton/bolton-stadiumarena.html | email= | address=3 Arena Approach BL6 6LB | lat= | long= | directions=100 yards west of football ground | phone=+44 333 777 3925 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) £40, breakfast £10 pp | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Comfy budget chain between stadium and Horwich Parkway station. }} * '''Premier Inn Bolton West''' is quarter of a mile east of the stadium on A673 Chorley New Road, with similar prices and quality. * {{sleep | name=Mercure Bolton Georgian House Hotel | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/8327/index.en.shtml | email= | address=Manchester Road, Blackrod BL6 5RU | lat=53.576 | long=-2.560 | directions=near jcn 6 of M61 | phone=+44 1942 330012 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £55 | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Okay-ish franchise hotel, the catering is often substandard and it can get noisy when they have a party in. }} * Rivington Pike M61 service area west of Horwich has accommodation, but there's no direct access to town. ==Connect== As of June 2021, Bolton has 4G from O2 and Three, and 5G from EE and Vodafone. ==Stay safe== In an emergency call '''999''' or '''112''' for Police, Ambulance, Fire Service or Coastguard. Call '''101''' to report concerns to the Police that do not require an emergency response. ==Go next== * '''[[Manchester]]''' is an unmissable lively city, an easy day trip from Bolton. {{routebox | image1=BR_logo.svg | imagesize1=40 | directionl1=NW | majorl1=[[Preston]] | minorl1=[[Chorley]] | directionr1=SE | majorr1=[[Manchester]] | minorr1=[[Salford]] | image2=UK-Motorway-M61.svg | imagesize2=50 | directionl2=NW | majorl2=[[Glasgow]] | minorl2=Horwich | directionr2=SE | majorr2=[[Manchester]] | minorr2=[[Salford]] | image3=UK road A58.svg | imagesize3=40 | directionl3=W | majorl3=[[Wigan]] | minorl3= | directionr3=E | minorr3=[[Bury]] | majorr3=[[Rochdale]] }} {{geo|53.578|-2.429}} {{IsPartOf|Greater Manchester}} {{usablecity}} p62qf34c9yj90sqcibfcv9360si5d1e 5288945 5288944 2026-06-06T22:40:02Z BrodieG99 2419268 /* Get around */ added bus fare and accessibility information, alongside grammar tidying 5288945 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bolton banner.jpg|pgname=Bolton|disambig=yes}} '''Bolton''' is a large town in [[Greater Manchester]] in the [[North West England|North-West of England]], 17 miles north of Manchester city centre. It celebrates its industrial heritage of canals, coal, cotton, and railways. The borough includes several small towns, notably Blackrod, Farnworth, Heaton, Horwich, Little Lever and Westhoughton. == Understand == [[File:Bolton Town Hall.jpg|thumb|Bolton Town Hall]] [[File:Mule-jenny.jpg|thumb|This ''Spinning Mule'' is the only one in existence made by the inventor Samuel Crompton. It can be found in the collection of Bolton Museum and Archive Service.]] Bolton grew rapidly as a textile and metal-bashing town during the 18th & 19th centuries. The ''Spinning Mule'' was invented here: it spun yarn into cotton thread faster and more efficiently than earlier processes, to feed the great hungry looms, and in its heyday there were 50 million Mules in Lancashire alone. A few were still in use for specialist fine yarns until the 1980s, but the Lancashire cotton trade collapsed in the 1950s, unable to compete with cheap imports. Bolton and similar towns slumped. In 1974 Manchester and its surrounding towns, including Bolton, were separated from Lancashire and became Greater Manchester. Bolton is nowadays mainly a commuter town for the big city. With a population in 2011 of 194,189 Bolton may well be "the biggest town in Britain" but its bids to be recognised as a city itself continue to be rebuffed. The town's traditional dialect is more "Lanky" (Lancashire) than Mancunian. You're unlikely nowadays to hear "thee / tha / thi" for "you / your" unless ironically, but you might hear "owt" (anything), "nowt" (nothing), "summat" (something) and "reeght" (right). Thus, a trivial matter is dismissed as "summat 'n nowt." Residents of Westhoughton are dubbed ''Keawyeds'' - cow heads; there's a bovine legend about this but it's probably from their victory banquet after Waterloo in 1815, when they roasted an ox and paraded the skull as "Old Boney". *[http://www.visitbolton.com/ Visit Bolton] tourist information. ==Get in== '''By plane:''' [http://www.manchesterairport.co.uk/ Manchester Airport] ({{IATA|MAN}}) has a huge range of flights. An hourly direct train from the airport takes 40 min to Bolton, otherwise change at Manchester Oxford Road. [[File:Bolton station platform 1 - geograph.org.uk - 823777.jpg|thumb|300px|Bolton Interchange]] '''Trains''' run by Northern travel to Bolton frequently from [[Manchester Victoria]] and [[Manchester Piccadilly]], 20 min, with a walk-up single costing less than £5. The train from the airport continues north from Bolton to Horwich Parkway, [[Preston]], [[Lancaster (England) | Lancaster]], [[Carlisle]] and [[Glasgow]] or [[Edinburgh]]. Bolton has two trains per hour from [[Blackpool]] via [[Preston]], and two per hour from [[Wigan]]. Railcards are available from National Rail to reduce train fares. {{marker|type=go |name=[http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations_destinations/BON.aspx Bolton Interchange] | lat=53.573 |long=-2.425 }} is central, 5mins walk from the Town Hall. {{marker | name=Horwich Parkway | type=go | lat=53.578 | long=-2.540 }} is next to Bolton Wanderers football ground and Middlebrook retail park. There are also small station halts at Lostock, Westhoughton, Hindley, Daisy Hill, Blackrod (for Horwich town) and Hall i' th' Wood. '''By bus:''' National Express runs three times a day direct from London Victoria, taking six hours. From Manchester, Bus 8 runs from Shudehill Interchange every ten min, taking 50 min (don't use Bus 37, which takes 90 min). There are also frequent but slow buses to Bolton from [[Salford]], [[Bury]], [[Rochdale]], [[Blackburn]], [[Preston]], [[Chorley]] and [[Wigan]]. The bus station is within Bolton Interchange to the side of the railway station. Both the train and bus stations are wheelchair accessible, alongside the buses and trains themselves (though trains require operator assistance for accessibility). '''By car''' for town centre exit M60 / M61 onto A666. For the football stadium stay on M61 to jcn 6. ==Get around== {{Mapframe | 53.570 | -2.450 | zoom=11 | height=500 | width=500 }} Bolton is not on the Greater Manchester tram network, so use the bus for outlying places. Bus 525 runs to Hall i' th' Wood. Buses passing near Bolton Wanderers football ground are the 505, 575, 915, 918 and 996, or you can take the train to Horwich Parkway. The nearest tram network stop is in Radcliffe, which can be reached on the 524 bus route. Single bus fares are £2 for adults and £1 for children. An adult all-day Bee Network bus ticket is £5.50, and valid for all Bee Network buses in the whole county of Greater Manchester, providing easy access to the city and surrounding towns. Buses are wheelchair accessible, even more so in recent years. ==See== [[File:Bolton Civic Centre1.jpg|thumb|300px|Le Mans Crescent houses the museum and library]] * {{marker | type=see | name=Bolton Town Hall | lat=53.578 | long=-2.430 }}, opened in 1873, is a confident statement of municipal pride, in neoclassical style with a baroque clock tower. Leeds and Portsmouth city halls were built to the same pattern. The elegant Le Mans Crescent behind was added in the 1930s. * {{see | name=Museum, Art Gallery and Aquarium | alt= | url=http://www.boltonlams.co.uk/museum | email= | address=Le Mans Crescent BL1 1SL | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=by Town Hall | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 10AM-4PM | price=Free | wikipedia=Bolton Museum | wikidata=Q4940210 | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=Visitors particularly enjoy the Ancient Egyptian collection. There's an aquarium in the basement. }} * The famous '''Fish and Veg Market''', the newly developed '''Market Hall''' and Churchgate are worth visiting. * '''Bolton Parish Church''' is Victorian. Samuel Crompton lies in the graveyard. * {{see | name=Bolton Steam Museum | alt= | url=https://www.nmes.org/ | email= | address=Mornington Rd BL1 4EU | lat=53.5850 | long=-2.4546 | directions= | phone=+44 1204 846490 | tollfree= | hours=W, Su 11AM-3PM | price=Donation | lastedit=2025-02-11 | content=Grand collection of static textile mill engines. }} * {{see | name=Hall i' th' Wood | alt= | url=http://www.boltonlams.co.uk/historic-halls/hall-i-th-wood-history | email= | address=Crompton Way BL1 8UH | lat=53.600 | long=-2.419 | directions=a mile north of Bolton off A58 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Mar-Oct: Tu 10AM-4PM, Sa noon-4PM | price= | wikipedia=Hall i' th' Wood | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=16th-century mansion, timber-framed with stone additions, used not as a single home but as multiple lets for 17th- and 18th-century cottage industry. One of those occupants was Samuel Compton, who designed his "Spinning Mule" here. This helped textile processes grow bigger and bigger, into "dark satanic mills", and the days of cottage industry were ended. The Hall fell into disrepair but was bought up by Lord Leverhulme the "Sunlight Soap" tycoon, who gifted it to the town. }} * {{marker | type=see | name=Prestolee Aqueduct | lat=53.553 | long=-2.377 }} is a four-arched stone aqueduct built in 1793 to carry the Manchester, Bolton & Bury Canal over the River Irwell. The canal climbed from Manchester over Pendleton to Prestolee where it branched, to Bolton and to Bury. This section is still in water and you can walk along the towpath but it's not navigable: work is under way to partly restore it. [[Image:Turton Tower.jpg | thumb | 300px | Turton Tower]] * {{see | name=Turton Tower | alt= | url=http://www.turtontower.co.uk/ | email= | address=Chapeltown BL7 0HG | lat=53.633 | long=-2.4075 | directions=On hill 4 miles north of Bolton on B6391 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Mar-Oct: W-Su 10AM-4PM | price=Adult £6 | wikipedia=Turton Tower | wikidata=Q7856488 | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=Odd-looking building, which started out as a 15th-century pele tower, then a stone mansion was added in late Tudor times. It was derelict by the 19th century but restored, with Dutch gables covering the stonework. With extensive gardens. It's nowadays within Blackburn, but is easiest accessed from Bolton, with Bromley Cross rwy station a mile or so south. }} * {{marker | type=see | name=[http://www.bhrmp.co.uk/ Holy Trinity Church] | lat=53.599 | long=-2.539 }} (Anglican) is in Horwich. Consecrated in 1831, it's an example of a "Commissioners' church" (aka a "Waterloo" or "Million Act" church). These were an initiative following the end of the Napoleonic wars to revive the decrepit Church of England, to be a national thank-offering for victory, and by Christian moral teaching to prevent a Jacobin-style revolution in Britain. ==Do== * {{Do|name=Octagon Theatre|url=https://octagonbolton.co.uk/|email=info@octagonbolton.co.uk|address=Howell Croft|lat=53.5773526|long=-2.43071370|directions=5 minute walk from bus and rail stations|phone=+44 1204 520661|lastedit=2022-11-30|content=Modern producing theatre with flexible (in-the-round, thrust, and end-stage) main stage supplemented by studio theatre. Touring productions and stand-up comedy supplement in-house productions.}} * '''Parks and countryside:''' central in town are Queen's Park and Moss Bank Park. : {{marker | name=Moses Gate Country Park | type=do | lat=53.5527 | long=-2.38033 }}, also known as Crompton Lodges, is on the Farnworth & Little Lever road. : {{marker | name=[http://westhoughtoncommunitynetwork.co.uk/eatocklodge.php Eatock Lodge] | type=do | lat=53.538103 | long=-2.530480 }} in Westhoughton is a small wooded nature reserve on "The Hoskers", a reclaimed colliery site. Also nearby is Cunningham Clough, a bosky gully with lots of scrubs for the dog to fossick in. * {{do | name=St Gregory's Social Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=13 Church Street, Farnworth BL4 8AG | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+44 1204 573168, +44 7513 897949 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 7-11:30PM, F-Su 5PM-midnight | price= | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=The one ''Phoenix Nights'' was based on. It's variously a function suite for events like weddings and funerals, a TV sports venue for big matches, an event space and has visiting acts. }} * '''Football:''' {{marker | name=[https://www.bwfc.co.uk/ Bolton Wanderers] | type=do | lat=53.582 | long=-2.537 }} were promoted in 2026 so they now play soccer the Championship, the second tier. Their home ground (capacity 28,800) is called the "University of Bolton Stadium" but is better known as the Macron or Reebok. It's on Burnden Way BL6 6JW, next to Middlebrook retail park five miles west of town centre. * '''Walk in the West Pennine Moors'''. Their most prominent features Rivington Pike and Winter Hill TV mast are across the boundary with [[Chorley]]. Great views across the North West - on a clear day you can make out Blackpool Tower and the mountains of Wales. * {{do | name=Ironman UK Triathlon | alt= | url=https://www.ironman.com/im-uk | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=General entry from £550 | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-31 | content=Held in Bolton in early July. }} * '''[http://www.boltonfoodanddrinkfestival.com/ Bolton Food & Drink Festival]''' is held over the August bank holiday weekend. The next is expected to be in Aug 2023. == Buy == * Town centre retail areas are the Market Place (the former market hall) and Crompton Place (formerly the Arndale Centre). There's also a large Marks & Spencer on Deansgate. * The edge-of-town retail park is Middlebrook, near the football stadium towards Horwich. ==Eat== === Bolton === * {{eat | name=Ye Olde Pastie Shoppe | alt= | url=http://yeoldepastieshoppe.com/ | email= | address=31 Churchgate BL1 1HU | lat= | long= | directions=corner of Bradshawgate | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-F 9AM-2:45PM | price= | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=A Bolton tradition, renowned for its pasties, which you can take into the pub across the street, "Ye Olde Man & Scythe Inn". }} * A strip of places on Bridge St include Nadii's Diner, Viva La Salsa, Jo's Grill House and Sake Sushi. * {{eat | name=Rice 'n' Three | alt= | url=http://www.ricenthree.co.uk/ | email= | address=80 Bradshawgate BL1 1QQ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 11AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=An independent curry house with good meat dishes and vegetarian options, inexpensive. They've another branch on Deane Road. }} === Horwich === * {{eat | name=Viva España | alt= | url=https://www.vivaespanauk.co.uk/ | email= | address=12 Winter Hey Lane BL6 7AA | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 438235 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 6-11PM | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Tapas but the portions are substantial, good value. }} * {{eat | name=Spice Valley | alt= | url=https://www.spicevalleyhorwich.co.uk/ | email=bookings@spicevalleyhorwich.co.uk | address=171 Lee Lane BL6 7JD | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 697222 | tollfree= | hours=M-F noon-2PM, 5-10:30, Sa 4-11, Su noon-9 | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Indian restaurant with consistently good quality, veggie options, buffet and à la carte. }} * {{eat | name=Thyme | alt= | url=http://thymedeli.co.uk/ | email= | address=4-6 Winter Hey Lane BL6 7AA | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 692555 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa shop 9AM-5PM, meals noon-3:30 | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Deli and café for light bites. }} * {{eat | name=Sokrates Taverna | url= | email= | address=80-84 Winter Hey Lane BL6 7NZ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 692100 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 5-11, F Sa 6PM-midnight, Su 3:30-10:30 | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Cheerful place with meze selections and à la carte. They've another branch in Sale. }} * Middlebrook retail park by the football stadium has a range of budget chain eateries, including Abacus Chinese, ASK Italian, Frankie & Benny's, and Nando's. ==Drink== [[File:Bolton Market Hall.jpg|thumb|300px|The renovated market hall]] === Bolton === * Bolton is home to an independent brewery, '''Bank Top'''. Their ales can be found in many local pubs and off-licences. * Other ales from the area include Lees (Middleton), Holts (Manchester), Hydes (Manchester) and Robinsons (Stockport). * {{drink | name=Ye Olde Man and Scythe | alt= | url= | email= | address=6-8 Churchgate Bolton BL1 1HL | lat=53.579562 | long=-2.426283 | directions= | phone=+44 1204 451237 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-12:30AM, Su noon-11PM | price= | lastedit=2022-11-30 | content=Old Long-established friendly pub, often has live music. Good beer and try the cider, you can bring in pasties from the shop opposite. Parts of pub date back to 1251. }} * {{drink | name=Barristers | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Bradshawgate Bolton BL1 1HJ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 365174 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 10AM-2AM, Th-Su 10AM-4AM | price= | lastedit=2020-01-26 | content=Good selection of cask ales, Saturday night is karaoke. }} * {{Drink|name=One For The Road|address=Bolton Market, Lifestyle Hall, Stalls F14 to F15 Ashburner Street.|lat=53.576672|long=-2.43312|phone=+44 7725 338773|hours=closed M, W & Su, 9:30AM-5:30PM|lastedit=2022-11-30|content=Bar located in busy market hall featuring real ales. Food available from various vendors.}} * {{Drink|name=Northern Monkey Bar|url=https://www.northernmonkeybrew.co.uk/|address=The Pack Horse, Nelson Square, Bolton BL1 1AQ|lat=53.577826|long=-2.427311|phone=+44 7737125629|hours=M closed, Tu-Th 4-10PM, F Sa noon-11PM, Su noon-9PM |lastedit=2022-11-30|content=Features beer from Bolton's Northern Monkey brewery & other craft beers. Pizzas served till 8PM.}} * {{Drink|name=Great Ale at the Vaults|address=Vaults Below Market Place, Bolton, BL1 2AL|lat=53.5812|long=-2.4298|directions=evening access from Corporation Street|phone=+44 1204 773548|hours=Su-Th 11AM-9PM, F Sa 11AM-11PM|lastedit=2022-11-30|content=Atmospheric bar in Victorian cellar of former market hall. Food available till 7PM.}} === Horwich === * {{drink | name=The Crown | alt= | url=https://www.joseph-holt.com/pubs/crown | email= | address=1 Chorley New Rd, Horwich BL6 7QJ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 690926 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 11AM-11:30PM, F Sa 9AM-midnight, Su 9AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Traditional pub, decent food, dog-friendly. }} * {{drink | name=The Old Original Bay Horse | alt= | url=https://oldoriginalbayhorse-horwich.craftunionpubs.com/ | email= | address=206 Lee Lane, Horwich BL6 7JF | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 696231 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th noon-11PM, F Sa noon-midnight | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Friendly staff, dogs welcome, beer garden. }} * {{drink | name=The Saddle | alt= | url=https://ambertaverns.co.uk/ | email= | address=55 Lee Lane, Horwich BL6 7AX | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 698889 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-11PM, F 10:00-midnight, Sa noon-midnight | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Good town centre pub, part of Amber Taverns chain. }} * {{drink | name=Sam's Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=28 Lee Lane, Horwich BL6 7BY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 669155 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Calls itself a "wine bar" but really a standard northern boozer, decent prices but mixed reviews for ambiance. }} * {{drink | name=Blundell Arms | alt= | url=http://www.chefandbrewer.com/pub/blundell-arms-horwich-bolton/p1527/ | email= | address=Chorley Old Road, Horwich BL6 6PY | lat=53.595 | long=-2.506 | directions=B6226 | phone=+44 1204 841194 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 11:30AM-11PM, Sa 10AM-11PM, Su 10AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Pub on the hill between Bolton and Horwich, does good Sunday roasts. }} === Elsewhere === * {{drink | name=House Without A Name | alt=The No-Name | url=http://www.housewithoutaname.co.uk/ | email= | address=75-77 Lea Gate, Bolton BL2 3ET | lat=53.606 | long=-2.398 | directions=3 miles north of Bolton on B6196 | phone=+44 1204 433568 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th noon-12:30PM, F Sa noon-1:30AM | price= | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=The area's standout pub with brilliant ales, regulars are Joseph Holt Bitter and Sharp's Doom. Bar food, quiz night Mons. }} * '''Farnworth''' has the Railway (aka Moses Gate) and Shakespeare. * '''Westhoughton''' has the White Lion, The Victoria, Wheatsheaf, The Robert Shaw (Weatherspoons), Rose & Crown (formerly Howfener) and White Horse. * '''Wingates''' has Waggon & Horses and The Royal Oak. * '''Daisy Hill''' has Rosehill Tavern and Grey Man; and '''Over Hulton''' has Red Lion and Hulton Arms. * '''Lostock''' has Beehive Carvery. ==Learn== Bolton is home to the University of Bolton (formerly Bolton Institute). ==Sleep== [[File:Prestolee aqueduct panorama.jpg | thumb | 300px | Prestolee Aqueduct]] === Bolton === * {{sleep | name=Travelodge Bolton Central | alt= | url=https://www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/529/Bolton-Central-River-Street-hotel | email= | address=River Street, Bolton BL2 1BX | lat=53.5759090 | long=-2.420692261 | directions=jcn A579 & A666 | phone=+44 871 984 6520 (premium rate number from mobiles) | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double around £89 | lastedit=2022-11-30 | content=Well-run budget chain hotel, clean and friendly. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Bolton Centre | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/hotels/gb/en/reservation | email= | address=1 Higher Bridge Street, Bolton BL1 2EW | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1204 879988 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double room only £55 | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=Clean & comfy place, very central, decor could use a spruce. }} * {{sleep | name=Mercury Bolton Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.themercurybolton.com/ | email= | address=540 Manchester Rd, Westhoughton BL5 3JP | lat=53.551778 | long=-2.503290 | directions=near M61 jcn 5 | phone=+44 1942 810904 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=10AM | price=B&B double £50 | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=Claims to be Britain's oldest motel, and looks it. Budget place, sometimes clean. }} * {{sleep | name=Last Drop Village Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.lastdropvillage.co.uk/ | email= | address=Hospital Rd, Bromley Cross BL7 9BZ | lat= | long= | directions=4 miles north of Bolton centre | phone=+44 1204 873500 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double room only £80 | lastedit=2019-08-26 | content=Good hotel & spa at north edge of city. }} === Horwich === : These are clustered around Bolton Wanderers football ground and Middlebrook retail park, with nothing in Horwich: * {{sleep | name=Bolton Whites | alt= | url=https://www.boltonwhiteshotel.co.uk/ | email=info@boltonwhiteshotel.co.uk | address=De Havilland Way BL6 6SF | lat= | long= | directions=adjoins the football stadium | phone=+44 1204 673610 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) £90 | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Good convenient hotel. Pricey for what you get, but close to stadium, eateries in Middlebrook retail park and M61. }} * {{sleep | name=Premier Inn Bolton Stadium | alt= | url=https://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/hotels/england/greater-manchester/bolton/bolton-stadiumarena.html | email= | address=3 Arena Approach BL6 6LB | lat= | long= | directions=100 yards west of football ground | phone=+44 333 777 3925 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) £40, breakfast £10 pp | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Comfy budget chain between stadium and Horwich Parkway station. }} * '''Premier Inn Bolton West''' is quarter of a mile east of the stadium on A673 Chorley New Road, with similar prices and quality. * {{sleep | name=Mercure Bolton Georgian House Hotel | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/8327/index.en.shtml | email= | address=Manchester Road, Blackrod BL6 5RU | lat=53.576 | long=-2.560 | directions=near jcn 6 of M61 | phone=+44 1942 330012 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £55 | lastedit=2020-03-08 | content=Okay-ish franchise hotel, the catering is often substandard and it can get noisy when they have a party in. }} * Rivington Pike M61 service area west of Horwich has accommodation, but there's no direct access to town. ==Connect== As of June 2021, Bolton has 4G from O2 and Three, and 5G from EE and Vodafone. ==Stay safe== In an emergency call '''999''' or '''112''' for Police, Ambulance, Fire Service or Coastguard. Call '''101''' to report concerns to the Police that do not require an emergency response. ==Go next== * '''[[Manchester]]''' is an unmissable lively city, an easy day trip from Bolton. {{routebox | image1=BR_logo.svg | imagesize1=40 | directionl1=NW | majorl1=[[Preston]] | minorl1=[[Chorley]] | directionr1=SE | majorr1=[[Manchester]] | minorr1=[[Salford]] | image2=UK-Motorway-M61.svg | imagesize2=50 | directionl2=NW | majorl2=[[Glasgow]] | minorl2=Horwich | directionr2=SE | majorr2=[[Manchester]] | minorr2=[[Salford]] | image3=UK road A58.svg | imagesize3=40 | directionl3=W | majorl3=[[Wigan]] | minorl3= | directionr3=E | minorr3=[[Bury]] | majorr3=[[Rochdale]] }} {{geo|53.578|-2.429}} {{IsPartOf|Greater Manchester}} {{usablecity}} i3ze6c3g8vmb3jqy76roddbgf2abndw 0 4567 5289030 5288119 2026-06-07T09:57:21Z ~2026-33767-02 2419500 /* Museums and galleries */ Updated listing for Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum - add bus connection 5289030 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bratislava Banner.jpg}} '''Bratislava''' ([[Hungarian phrasebook|Hungarian]]: ''Pozsony'', [[German phrasebook|German]]: ''Pressburg'', known as ''Prešporok'' before 1919), is the capital and largest city of [[Slovakia]]. It has a population of more than 475,000 (2021), and is the administrative, cultural and economic centre of the country. For most visitors, it is the entry point into the rest of the country. Located on the border tripoint of Slovakia, [[Austria]] and [[Hungary]], the city has sat in the very hearts of empires since its earliest mention in the 10th century. As such, the city is a place of contrasts; the city centre features the medieval and renaissance old town, as well as the skyscraper-heavy business and shopping district; the outskirts feature both hillside villas, and communist-era apartment blocks. == Understand == {{climate chart |Bratislava |-2.8 |3.1 |37.4 |-1.7 |5.8 |32.9 |1.7 |11.1 |36.8 |5.7 |17.5 |35.9 |10.6 |21.7 |58.6 |14.2 |25.6 |59.2 |16.2 |28.0 |61.8 |15.9 |27.9 |60.5 |11.2 |21.9 |58.6 |6.3 |15.6 |43.6 |2.6 |9.3 |46.2 |-1.5 |3.7 |42.7 |float=right |clear=right |description= |source = <ref name = Pogodaiklimat.ru>{{cite web |url = http://pogodaiklimat.ru/climate2/11816.htm |title = Pogodaiklimat.ru – Bratislava |publisher = Pogodaiklimat.ru |accessdate = 20 March 2014}}</ref> <ref name= Climatemps>{{cite web |url = http://www.bratislava.climatemps.com/ {{dead link|August 2020|December 2020}} |title = Climate of Bratislava |publisher = Climatemps |accessdate = 20 March 2013}}</ref> }} [[File:Bratislava Panorama R01.jpg|thumb|300px|Panorama of Bratislava]] [[File:Bratislava - 52119321317.jpg|thumb|300px|The old town from the castle]] Bratislava has a very pleasant medieval inner city with narrow, winding streets, a hill-top castle next to the river Danube, and many historic churches and buildings to visit. The old town is centered on two squares, Hlavné námestie (main square) and Hviezdoslavovo námestie (Hviezdoslav square, named after a famous Slovak poet). Of a rather different architectural character are some of the communist-era buildings found in the modern parts of the city; a prime example is Petržalka housing estate, the biggest communist-era concrete block housing complex in [[Central Europe]], which stretches on endlessly just across the river. Move further east and there are plenty of rural places to explore. There are farms, vineyards, agricultural land, and tiny villages less than 50 km to the north and east of Bratislava. Bratislava and its surroundings form the second-most prosperous region in Central and Eastern Europe, with a per capita GDP of around 167% of the EU-27 average. Bratislava is the sixth richest region of the European Union, and GDP per capita is about three times higher than in other Slovak regions. === History === [[File:Hviezdoslavovo námestie (10266936594).jpg|thumb|300px|Hviezdoslav Square]] After the fall of the Great Moravian Empire, Slovakia became part of the Kingdom of [[Hungary]] from the 10th century (later included with the [[Austro-Hungarian Empire]]) until the end of the First World War. The city was the capital (1536-1784), the coronation city (1563-1830), and the seat of the Diet (1536-1848) of the Kingdom of Hungary for three centuries. In this period, eleven Hungarian kings and queens were crowned at St. Martin's Cathedral. At that time, the city was called Preßburg in German and Pozsony in Hungarian, and had a clear German (42%) and Hungarian (40%) ethnic majority (1910 census). In 1919, the Treaty of Trianon created Czechoslovakia, and Bratislava was attached to the newly founded state. In the same year, the name Bratislava was officially adopted for the first time. Between 1939 and 1944, Slovakia was a Nazi puppet state. In 1941–1942 and 1944–1945, this government collaborated in deporting most of Bratislava's approximately 15,000 Jews to concentration camps, where most were murdered. Bratislava was occupied by German troops in 1944, and eventually taken by the Soviet Red Army on 4 April 1945, after a failed insurrection of Slovak partisans, now commemorated as ''Slovenské národné povstanie'', or "Slovak National Uprising". After the Communist Party seized power in Czechoslovakia in February 1948, the city witnessed profound demographic and urban transformation. In 1969 it became the capital city of the Slovak Socialist Republic, one of the two component states of federal Czechoslovakia. Bratislava's dissidents anticipated the fall of communism with the Bratislava candle demonstration in 1988, and the city became one of the foremost centres of the anti-communist "Velvet Revolution" in 1989. In 1993, the city became the capital of the newly formed Slovak Republic following the "Velvet Divorce". Since the fall of the Iron Curtain and especially with the accession of Slovakia to the European Union (May 2004) and later the Schengen Area, Bratislava is often marketed together with Vienna as "twin cities" due to their closeness. They are the two European capitals with the shortest distance to one another and should you ever get bored with Bratislava, Vienna is certainly an interesting day trip. You can even cross the roughly 60 km of distance on a bike in a single day if you're moderately fit. ===Visitor information === * {{listing | name=Visit Bratislava | alt= | url=https://www.visitbratislava.com | email=touristinfo@visitbratislava.com | address=Klobučnícka 2 | lat=48.1441 | long=17.1101 | directions=Take tram to Centrum station and walk southwest for 150 metres | phone=+421 2 16 186 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 09:00-12:30, 13:00-17:00; Su 10:00-12:30, 13:00-16:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-09-05 | content=Tourist information centre in Old Town (Centrum). You can also buy the physical [https://card.visitbratislava.com/ Bratislava Card] here. }} == Get in == [[File:16-05-03-Letisko Milana Rastislava Štefánika-RalfR-DSCF7939 40 41.jpg|thumb|Bratislava Airport]] ===By plane=== ====Bratislava Milan Rastislav Štefánik Airport==== {{listing | type = go | name = Bratislava Airport | alt = {{IATA|BTS}} | url = http://www.letiskobratislava.sk/ | email = | address = | lat = 48.17 | long = 17.212778 | directions = | phone = | tollfree = | fax = | hours = | price = | wikipedia = Bratislava Airport | image = Bratislava airport.jpg | wikidata = Q828379 | lastedit = 2025-02-08 | content = The largest airport in the Slovak Republic. Served mainly by low cost and charter airlines. }} If you are flying with Ryanair and have check-in luggage, do not let the small size of the airport fool you. Arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight, as the queue can get very long. There are no dedicated airport shuttles, however the airport is served as part of the municipal bus network. Use bus [https://imhd.sk/ba/route-line/61 No 61] (or N61 at night) for a direct connection to the [http://bratislava-slovakia.eu/places/bratislava-airport Central Train Station (Hlavná stanica)]. Or change for a tram at Trnavské mýto to get to the city center (in order to get to the tram stop, use the underpass and the exit marked "Centrum" (city center) and take any tram in the direction towards center. You can't buy tickets from the bus driver (see "Get around" below) so you must buy tickets in advance. Use the vending machines at the bus stop, but you will need euro coins as the vending machines don't take notes (there are also two big red ticket machines in the terminal building close to arrivals, which do accept banknotes and credit cards). You can also buy tickets in the tourist and exchange offices in the terminal, but they have only limited working hours. Be aware that the airport shops and kiosks are not very helpful when it comes to changing bills into coins. A screen in the arrivals hall displays actual departure times of next public transport buses and buses to Vienna. [http://www.imhd.sk Public transport buses] are cheap &ndash; a single ticket to/from the city centre (validate the ticket in the marking machine in the bus; valid for 60 minutes from the moment of validation; transfer to other public transport lines allowed) costs €1.60 including any number of interchanges. Overstaying your ticket will result in an expensive fine, but during night and low travel the 30-min (€1.09) ticket can be sufficient for travelling between the airport and the bus station (or vice versa). Travel to and from the train station at night (with no cars around) is 31 min so you are better off with a 60-minute ticket. Taxis taken directly from the airport are expensive (more than €30 for a 15-minute journey to the city centre) and even worse, taxi drivers do not respect the price you agreed with them in advance. If you like a taxi, call one or use Uber, Bolt, Hopin or Liftago apps: these are reliably working in Bratislava. Direct bus services operating in approximately hourly intervals connect the airport with [[Vienna International Airport]] ({{IATA|VIE}}) and the city of [[Vienna]] (travel time to Vienna is c. 80–90 minutes). ====Vienna International Airport==== [[File:Austria Vienna Airport 2011-09-15.jpg|thumb|Vienna International Airport]] '''[[Vienna International Airport]]'''/Flughafen Wien ({{IATA|VIE}}) is about 45&nbsp;km (28&nbsp;mi) from Bratislava, near to the town of Schwechat in [[Austria]]. The airport is the home base of the flag-carrier '''[https://www.austrian.com Austrian]'''. Most European airlines and several international airlines have direct connections to Vienna from their respective hubs. There are three companies providing bus services between Vienna and Vienna International Airport and Bratislava, each running hourly. In Bratislava, all buses stop at ''Einsteinova'' (Petržalka) and ''Most SNP'' (under UFO Bridge) and/or Coach Terminal (''Autobusová stanica (Mlynské Nivy)'', in timetables abbreviated as ''Bratislava AS''). All but RegioJet buses continue towards Bratislava Airport every two hours. A quick summary of transport options (schedules and prices as of June 2018): * {{listing | name=Slovak Lines (bus) | url=http://www.postbus.at/en/International_lines/index.jsp | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Price €1 (online, well in advance), €5 (Bratislava centre), €9.50 (Bratislava airport), children under 15 years of age €1; reductions for return-tickets, youth under 26 and seniors from 63| content=In total, there are at least 20 services in either direction from 06:30–22:30 and 24:00. Buses run at least every hour between Vienna Central Train Station (''Wien Hauptbahnhof''; Bus Terminal is next door at [http://www.postbus.at/en/Internat._Bus_Terminal/index.jsp Südtiroler Platz / Wiedner Gürtel]) and Vienna Airport and Bratislava Coach Terminal (''Bratislava AS''). Every two hours they extend to Bratislava Airport. All buses also stop at Hainburg, Wolfsthal (Austria) and at Einsteinova (Petržalka). Please check the [http://www.viennaairport.com/jart/prj3/va/uploads/data-uploads/Passagier/Parken/VIE_Postbus_1195_de_en.pdf timetable] <!-- [https://www.slovaklines.sk/fileadmin/user_upload/pdf/wien.pdf timetable] -->. You are allowed to transport two pieces of baggage per person at €1 per piece. The baggage tags can be purchased from ticket window or from the driver. }} ''You can book [https://online.slovaklines.sk/home.aspx?l=en&type=eu&aid=postbus&dep=999000682&arr=&jtype=2 online here]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}.'' * {{listing | name=Flixbus (bus) | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Price from €4.99 (online in advance) up to €9.99; children €3.90–4.99 | content=In total, there are 21 services in either direction from 06:50–23:50 and 01:05 (departure times from airport). Buses run at least every hour between [https://www.vib-wien.at/en/vib-busterminal Vienna U3 Erdberg VIB (''Vienna International Busterminal'')] and Vienna Airport and Bratislava. Bus stops in Bratislava: Einsteinova (Petržalka), New Bridge (''Most SNP'') and Coach Terminal (''Bratislava AS''). Every two hours the buses continue to Bratislava Airport. The buses that are not destined to the airport continue to the Coach Terminal and ''do not stop'' at Most SNP. }}''You can book [https://shop.global.flixbus.com/search?departureCity=2988&arrivalCity=1745&route=Vienna+Airport-Bratislava&adult=1 online here].'' * {{listing | name=RegioJet (bus) | url=https://www.regiojet.com/timetables-and-stops/timetables/index.html?timetableId=3817007001 |email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Price €5, as low as €1 if booked very early; children €4.50 | content= In total, there are 16 services in either direction at 7:00 and from 09:00–23:00 (departure times from airport). Buses run every hour between Vienna Central Train Station (''Wien Hauptbahnhof'', Bus Terminal is adjacently situated at [http://www.postbus.at/en/Internat._Bus_Terminal/index.jsp Südtiroler Platz / Wiedner Gürtel]) and Vienna Airport and Bratislava Coach Terminal (''Bratislava AS''), with stops in Einsteinova (close to Incheba in Petržalka) and Most SNP (UFO bridge). RegioJet buses do not continue towards Bratislava Airport. Make sure to book online. }} ''You can book [https://fahrkarten.regiojet.com/Booking/from/10204055/to/10202001/tarif/REGULAR/return/false online here].'' * {{listing | name=Train | url=http://fahrplan.oebb.at/bin/query.exe/en | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The trains from Vienna to Bratislava do not pass by Vienna Airport as they run on different lines. <!-- There are 2 different routes that do not pass by (!!): see section Get in by Train -->However, it would be possible to take the hourly train (S7 or REX7) from Vienna Airport to Wolfsthal near the Austrian/Slovak border (45 minutes, regular ticket costs €11.10) and change to Slovak-operated [https://imhd.sk/ba/schedule-timetable/linka/901/smer/Bratislava-Most-SNP/zastavka/Wolfsthal-Bhf-Hauptstrasse-40/943719027757 regional bus 901] that will take you to Bratislava city centre (€1.50, €0.75 for youth under 26 years of age, children under 6 travel free) in just 12 minutes. The buses leave at 55 minutes past the hour on most hours during the day, except on Sunday when it is a 2-hourly service, but be aware that the departures/arrivals of the bus are not always aligned with the trains, so you run into risk of up to two hours of waiting in a small village 5&nbsp;km from the border. Walking to Bratislava from here will take an hour and is not recommended though there is a path near the Danube. All in all, this is not a preferable way to get to Bratislava, but could be useful if schedules have been checked or if you have a back-up plan to arrange a ride or taxi (which can be hard to explain if you don't speak Slovak or German) from Wolfsthal.}} * {{listing | name=Taxi | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Cab fare is not set, so agree before getting in. }} * {{listing | name=Vienna–Bratislava Transfer | alt= | url=http://www.vienna-transfer.at/en/transfer_bratislava.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-02-17 | content=A flat rate of €140 for transfers between Vienna and Bratislava. }} ====Alternatives==== [[Brno]] Airport has a very small selection of destination offerings. [[Budapest]] and Prague airports are about a 4-5 hour journey but can mean substantial savings on intercontinental trips, especially to [[New York City]] or [[Beijing]]. === By train === Most international trains stop at {{go | name=Bratislava Main Station | alt=Bratislava hlavná stanica (sometimes Bratislava hl. st.) | url=https://www.zsr.sk/pre-cestujucich/zoznam-stanic-zastavok/detail-stanice.html?sid=100 | email= | address= | lat=48.158333 | long=17.106944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bratislava hlavná stanica | image=Bratislava Main Station Bratislava hlavná stanica.jpg | wikidata=Q899662 | lastedit=2018-06-27 | content=It has good connections to public transport. To get to the city centre, you can take tram number 1 and get off at "Nám. SNP" (short for "Námestie Slovenského národného povstania") ([https://imhd.sk/ba/maps map]), but it is an unchallenging walk of 20–25 minutes anyway – just ask for a free map and directions at the tourism information desk inside the station.}} :* '''[[Vienna]]:''' 1 hr. There are two regional express services from ''Wien Hauptbahnhof'' (Vienna Central Train Station) to two different stations in Bratislava: one to Bratislava Hlavná stanica (Bratislava Central Train Station) via Marchegg and the other to Bratislava Petržalka station via Kittsee – each operating in hourly intervals, with first daily service leaving around 05:00 and the last train leaving around 22:30, to Petržalka at 23:15. The prices of regular tickets for the different routes are not the same. But with the advantageous return-ticket called [https://www.oebb.at/en/regionale-angebote/ueberregionale-angebote/bratislava-ticket ''Euregio'' '''''Bratislava-Ticket'''''] which, purchased in Vienna, costs €18 (children under 15 years of age: €9), you can indiscriminately use any train on both routes. It is valid for 4 days, but the trip must be started on the first day of validity. And on the first day it also serves as a day-pass for all public transport in Bratislava allowing the free use of the urban public transport till 01:00. You even will benefit from this return-ticket if you go only one-way to Bratislava-Petržalka via Kittsee, because it's cheaper than the regular full-price one-way ticket! Also, transporting one bicycle on the train is free. You can obtain it from ticket counters as well as from all ÖBB ticket-vending machines, but not by entering the destination, rather by choosing, at the bottom, "More products" and then "Tickets for neighbouring countries". {{cautionbox|Due to the timeline of the reconstruction of a railway bridge to Marchegg slipping, trains from Vienna only run to the [[#Bratislava-Petržalka|Petržalka station]], except the Railjet services. Take into account the additional transfer time.}} :* '''[[Prague]]:''' 4 hr, EC trains every 2 hours operated by the Czech railway company ČD (České dráhy). [https://www.cd.cz/en/spojeni-a-jizdenka/ Online tickets] are much cheaper than the tickets purchased at the station, but you should buy them at least 3 days in advance. It is possible to get on a through sleeper car on the Euronight train [https://czech-transport.com/index.php?train=28&lang=en EN 477 "Metropol"]{{Dead link|date=March 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot}}, however, the journey only takes 6 hours meaning you won't get too much sleep. :Also the Czech private low-cost carrier RegioJet provides three direct connections ([https://regiojet.com/where-we-go/time-tables timetable]) to Bratislava, which continue to Budapest. Travel time just under 4 hours. Although RegioJet has ticket counters in Prague, the best way is to book tickets online ([https://bustickets.regiojet.com/Booking/from/10202003/to/1841058000/tarif/REGULAR/return/false ''here'']) well in advance in order to obtain best-price tickets. :* '''[[Brno]]''' - 1¾ to 2 hours :* '''[[Budapest]]:''' 2½ hr, nine EC trains a day in daytime, departing from ''Budapest Nyugati station''. The trains shuttle every 2 hours in both directions. [https://www.bratislava-slovakia.eu/travel/budapest-bratislava/budapest-train From Budapest], the cyclic two-hour EC schedule is from 05:30–19:30. From Bratislava, then EC trains run on cyclic two-hour schedule from 06:05–20:05. As of September 2024, a Budapest–Bratislava ticket costs €17.80 regardless of purchasing from Slovak railway company ZSSK or Hungarian railway company MÁV-START. :* '''[[Berlin]]:''' 8½ hr, five day-time EC train connections every two hours. Except for one direct train ([https://czech-transport.com/index.php?train=1432&lang=en EC 173 "Hungaria"]), all other trains require to change in [[Prague]]. No direct sleeper service, but one with only one change in Prague at a reasonable time of day. Tickets bought directly before departure or on the train usually are a lot more expensive than advance purchase fares (not earlier than 90 days prior to departure), which may be very cheap when bought as early as possible (starting at €29). Note that there is a €2 surcharge for tickets bought at the counter, but you can get information at the counter and later buy at the machine anyway, at no surcharge. Tickets can also be bought online at Deutsche Bahn's [https://www.bahn.com/en/view/index.shtml excellent website]. :* '''[[Warsaw]]:''' 7 hr, daily one direct train ([https://czech-transport.com/index.php?train=2129&lang=en IC 131 "Varsovia"]) and two connections with change at Břeclav; 10¾ h on night train [https://www.czech-transport.com/index.php?train=1484&lang=en EN 407 "Chopin"]{{Dead link|date=March 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} with change at Břeclav. There is a limited offer (''SparDay'' for daytime trains, ''SparNight'' for sleepers) of discounted tickets to Budapest via Bratislava, they're much cheaper than normal tickets to Bratislava. :* '''[[Belgrade]]:''' 12¾ hr in total, starting on [https://czech-transport.com/index.php?train=1122&lang=en INT/D 344 "Avala"]{{Dead link|date=March 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} towards Budapest, there ''transfer from Keleti to Nyugati train station'' in order to continue on EC 270 "Metropolitan" to Bratislava. Trains from Serbia are often delayed, but in Budapest you have a 2-hour gap. Alternative: 11½ hr with [https://czech-transport.com/index.php?train=2248&lang=en INT 342 "Ivo Andrić"]{{Dead link|date=March 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to Budapest, there changing onto EN 476 "Metropol", with a transfer time of 20 minutes at the same train station. (There is no direct train anymore.) <!-- The connections with change cost almost half of the direct-train fare, because you can buy discounted tickets Belgrade–Budapest and Budapest–Bratislava. --> :* '''[[Kyiv]]:''' 23 hr, minimum travel time with only one change, starting on overnight train [https://czech-transport.com/index.php?train=3626&lang=en D 40749 "Hortobágy"]{{Dead link|date=March 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to Budapest, there ''transfer from Keleti to Nyugati train station'' (gap of 1 hr 40 min), and continuing on train EC 278 "Metropolitan". <!-- 28 hours, daily night train with through cars from Moscow (42 hr). --> :* '''[[Rijeka]]''' nightly via [[Ljubljana]] and Csorna, continuing to [[Břeclav]], [[Brno]], [[Pardubice]] and Prague. It's run by [https://www.regiojet.com/ Regiojet], booking essential. {{go | name=Bratislava-Petržalka | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.1213 | long=17.0997| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-11-27 | content=The other principal station is Bratislava-Petržalka, situated in a residential district, south of the river Danube. The station serves as a terminus for some of the trains from Vienna. }} Bus 80 (direction: ''Kollárovo námestie'') departs from outside the Petržalka station building or use the underground passageway in the station hall, then hop on any of the buses that leave from the opposite side of the road. Buses 91 and 191 (direction: ''Nový most''), 93 and 94 (direction: ''Hlavná stanica'' and ''Vazovova'' respectively) all go directly to city centre. === By bus === [[File:Kosciol Elzbiety w Bratyslawie.JPG|thumb|Church of St. Elisabeth]] Coach lines connect Bratislava with all of [[Slovakia]], a high number of Czech cities and a number of EU destinations, including [[London]], [[Paris]]. Between Bratislava and Budapest there are daily connections, so does, for example, Flixbus provide a [https://shop.global.flixbus.com/search?departureCity=1795&arrivalCity=1745&route=Budapest-Bratislava&rideDate=&backRideDate=8&adult=1 bus service] about every two hours. From southern Germany there are a few connections as well. For more on the newly emerging domestic market as well as some information on international routes (operated by mostly the same companies) see [[Long distance bus travel in Germany]]. The most frequent international coach connection by far is '''[[Vienna]]''', though. There are three companies – Postbus/Slovak Lines, Flixbus, and RegioJet – providing bus services between Vienna and Vienna International Airport and Bratislava, each in hourly intervals from different points of departure within Vienna. In Bratislava, all buses stop at ''Einsteinova'' (Petržalka) and ''Most SNP'' (under UFO Bridge) and/or Coach Terminal (''Autobusová stanica (Mlynské Nivy)'', in timetables abbreviated as ''Bratislava AS''). All but RegioJet buses continue towards Bratislava Airport every two hours. A trip from/to Vienna takes about 1½ hours. The fare to Bratislava is the same, irrespective of whether the travel starts in Vienna or at Vienna Airport. To Bratislava airport the fare may be the same or higher with Flixbus, while Postbus/Slovak Lines generally charge a higher fare. Hourly departures from Vienna (schedules and prices as of June 2018): : * ''Slovak Lines:'' from Vienna Central Train Station (''Wien Hauptbahnhof''; Bus Terminal is adjacently situated at [https://web.archive.org/web/20180625190425/http://www.postbus.at/en/Internat._Bus_Terminal/index.jsp Südtiroler Platz / Wiedner Gürtel]) 06:00–22:00, 23.30; to Bratislava airport from 06:00–14:00 and 15:00–19:00 every 2 hours. ''You can book [https://online.slovaklines.sk/home.aspx?l=en&type=eu&aid=postbus&dep=999002905&arr=&jtype=2 online here]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}.'' * ''Flixbus:'' from [https://vib-wien.at/en Vienna U3 Erdberg VIB (''Vienna International Busterminal'')] 06:30–23:30, 0:45; to Bratislava airport from 07:30–21:30 every 2 hours. To Bratislava centre there are two additional buses from Vienna Central Train Station operated by Polski Bus under the umbrella of Flixbus. ''You can book [https://shop.global.flixbus.com/search?departureCity=1394&arrivalCity=1745&route=Vienna-Bratislava&adult=1 online here].'' * ''RegioJet:'' from Vienna Central Train Station (''Wien Hauptbahnhof''; Bus Terminal is adjacently situated at [https://web.archive.org/web/20180625190425/http://www.postbus.at/en/Internat._Bus_Terminal/index.jsp Südtiroler Platz / Wiedner Gürtel]) 06:25, 08:25–22:25. ''You can book [https://fahrkarten.regiojet.com/Booking/from/10202052/to/10202001/tarif/REGULAR/false/ online here].'' :''For more details see [[Bratislava#Vienna International Airport|Vienna International Airport / Flughafen Wien]].'' {{go | name=Bus Station | alt=Autobusová stanica, Nivy | url= | email= | address=Mlynské nivy | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q67032897 | lastedit=2026-03-01 | content=At the eastern border of the city centre, which is a massive construction site with lot of new development happening around. The bus station is in the underground of the shopping center. To get there from within the city, most likely you will want to target the station "Autobusova stanica" or "Košická". }} === By boat === [[File:Bratislava, Devín, Twin City liner.jpg|thumb|Twin City liner connects Bratislava with Austria's capital Vienna]] Regular tourist boat lines operate on the Danube from spring through fall on routes from Vienna. You can find routes and schedules [https://www.lod.sk/en/cruises-2/regular-cruises/detail/bratislava-vienna-bratislava/ here]. A [http://www.twincityliner.com high speed ferry boat] travels to Vienna at a higher cost than other means of transport. A one-way ticket from Vienna to Bratislava by Twin City Liner costs about €25-30 (whereas a return train ticket is less than €15). The Twin City Liner's boats travel at 60 km/h and the journey takes about 1 hr 15 min from Vienna to Bratislava and about 1 hr 30 min from Bratislava to Vienna (almost as much as the train). Unlike the train though, which stops at stations distant from the center (about 2–3&nbsp;km), the boat stops are in the very centres of both Vienna (Schwedenplatz) and Bratislava (Novy Most). === By kayak and canoe === Danube river is getting very popular for multi-day tours. Some people do their paddling all the way from Germany to Black Sea (more than 2516&nbsp;km / 1563&nbsp;mi), also known as TID. Bratislava is well developed for paddling. There are several paddling clubs at "Karloveske rameno" with accommodation possible at [http://club.paddler.sk Paddler Club] at river km 1872, near "Stary most" at r.km 1868. Free camping is possible along river shore; good places are around km 1872 right, 1864-60 left. === By car === Bratislava lies on the border of two other countries and has a relatively good road system. The town can be accessed by motorways (i.e. limited access highway) from northern Slovakia and Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary as well as Austria. As a result, you can pass the town without having to leave the motorway at all. Similar to most countries in Central Europe, you have to pay for using the highways. Similar to Hungary, the payment is all done electronically (so you do not have to have a sticker on the windshield) and can be bought [http://www.eznamka.sk online], on most petrol stations and in kiosk on border. The motorways within the boundaries of Bratislava town can be used for free. After entering the city, a parking information system is in place to lead you to the next free parking spot. In the center of town you either can use one of the paid underground garages or buy a parking card from vendors in yellow vests and try to find a free spot in the streets. The former is recommended on weekends as finding a parking place in the one-ways can turn into a real head breaking puzzle. If you do find a spot in the street and it's a weekday between 08:00 and 16:00 you have to pay for parking. Parking meters are usually available at the corners, are signed posted with blue and yellow sign and take coins only. It may be a good idea to leave the car at the '''Aupark parking lot''' which also serves as a "Park and Walk" facility for tourists (note that the indoor parking facilities as well as parts of the outdoor parking lot are closed from 24:00-06:00, the rest of the parking space is free to use 24/7). You can leave your car here and walk through the park and across the Danube to the city center, which is a 10-minute stroll, or just use public transport. It is not recommended to leave the car in residential areas outside of the city center to avoid paid parking, as foreign cars may attract car thieves. Renting a car is also an option, especially if you are visiting destinations outside of Bratislava. All major rental companies have a stall at the airport but most have a city office as well plus there is a lot of local car rental companies, some even deliver the car to your hotel/apartment. Use common sense to pick the reliable one. === By bike === Bratislava has nice surroundings for biking and an international bike route leads along the southern shore of the Danube river (Donauradweg, or EuroVelo 6). The route from Austria via Bratislava down to Hungary is well marked, and also accessible for hiking on foot. Motorised transport is prohibited on the bike route. However, the town has not many biking routes and they are mostly ignored by car drivers. There are millions of ways though to [http://www.cyklotrasy.sk bike in the Carpathian hills and along the rivers Danube and Morava]{{Dead link|date=August 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Read some more in "Do" below. == Get around == {{mapframe|48.1446304| 17.111|zoom=15|name=The city center of Bratislava}} {{mapshapes|Q1582299}} Generally, Bratislava is a walking city, though as of the early 2020s with increasing number of cycling lines. The centre is very small and cosy and you can easily walk from one side to another in a few minutes. The city centre is a [[Car-free destinations|pedestrian zone]], but be aware of cyclists and occasional cars that can sometimes drive rather quickly in between the pedestrian area and outdoor cafes. ===Public transport=== [[File:Ba tram map v2.svg|thumb|[[File:Tram-Logo.svg|20px]] Network (2024)]] [[File:Škoda-30T.JPG|thumb|Škoda 30 T tram in Bratislava]] [[File:New Bridge by night.JPG|right|thumb|Most SNP, across the Danube.]] [[File:Mercedes-Benz Capacity Bratislava line 95.JPG|right|thumb|A typical red bus in Bratislava.]] If you want to travel outside of the centre, use the trams or trolley buses if you need to get from one point to another quickly. Bratislava has a rather good '''[https://www.idsbk.sk/en/ public transport system]''' mainly operated by the city transport company [https://www.dpb.sk/ DPB] ''(website in Slovak only)''. Buses tend to be the slowest means of transport. '''Stops''' typically have to be requested, except for trams. To enter bus/trolleybus one has to be standing visibly on the bus stop. To exit, one needs to press a button nearby doors and the driver will stop at the next stops. '''Bus doors''' have to be opened by passengers (except for few oldest buses), just push a button on the door or near the door. A single-journey ticket costs €1.09, valid for 30 minutes only. There is a longer validity ticket available for €1.60 (valid for 60 minutes). All tickets can be used for any number of travels within the specified time period. If you are staying for a holiday, consider buying one from a choice of longer term tickets valid for 1, 3 and 7 days (24, 72, and 168 hours from validation) for €4.80, €10.8 and €14.40 respectively. For more information about tickets, check the [https://www.idsbk.sk/en/ticket-prices/ IDS BK] (Integrated Transport System) website. '''Note''' that you also need to buy a [https://www.idsbk.sk/en/ticket-prices/baggage/ separate ticket] for your suitcase or other large luggage; buy a luggage ticket for {{EUR|0.55}} which covers 180 mins. You must '''validate your ticket''' in the validation machines on the bus/tram immediately after boarding (via any door) – on buses and trams, you can also validate your debit/credit card on any card machine, though sometimes they can be clunky and slow to process (if this happens, try a different reader). When it comes to proving that you have not exceeded the time stated on your ticket (e.g. 30 minutes on a 30-minute ticket), official schedule times are decisive — not the actual travel times (do not give in to unfriendly ticket inspectors claiming the contrary). You can find out the scheduled travel times in the left-most column of the schedules, left of the stop name or via the internet (see below). Bus and tram drivers in Bratislava ''do not'' sell tickets, therefore you ''either'' need to obtain a ticket ''before'' entering a bus or a tram, or use '''contactless payment''' (credit/debit card). To use contactless on board, select the ticket you need, then tap your card. There are ticket vending machines at most stops in the town. Only coins and contactless credit cards can be used at the yellow machines (which sells all physical short term tickets and some physical longer term tickets), but at larger stops there are also new big red machines which sell the full range of tickets and accept all cards and even banknotes. Yellow machines at some stops do not accept contactless credit cards, which can be frustrating if you do not have coins on hand. '''SMS tickets''' are also available, but only if you send a text message from a cell phone with a Slovak SIM card, which rules out all short-term foreign tourists. SMS tickets cannot be used on S-trains. If you purchased a "Eurgion Bratislava-Ticket" return ticket in Vienna, it also serves as a pass for all public transport on the date shown on the ticket, and does not need to be validated on Bratislava public transport. Besides vending machines, tickets are also sold in many news stands and — very conveniently for travellers arriving by train, late in the evening or at weekends — in railway stations at the ticket counters (ticket counter 16 at the main railway station). You can also purchase tickets for public transport in every tourist information bureau. Try asking for the [https://card.visitbratislava.com/ Bratislava Card] which combines a 1 to 3-day ticket with various discounts and is available at information bureaus, but note that the City Card is significantly more expensive than public transport tickets alone, so make sure it is the best option for you! Tickets can also be bought using an app for [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.casperise.urbi.online.bid Android] or [https://apps.apple.com/app/id1360894243 iOS]. There are 3 '''main interchange points''' in the close city centre where you can get a bus or tram to nearly anywhere else: * Hodžovo námestie (Presidential palace) for Northwest- and East-bound bus connections * Námestie SNP / Kamenné námestie (down the pedestrian area below Hodžovo námestie, on the northern edge of centre) for trams * Most SNP (close to St. Martin's Cathedral and the Danube banks) for trams and for west-bound buses as well as bus connections to Petržalka. Main tram, bus and trolleybus lines operate from 04:30 until approximately 23:30. If you need to '''travel by bus at night''', go to the main railway station which is the main night line interchange point or use the bus stops at Presidential palace (Hodžovo námestie). All night lines have common departure times from the main railway station at 23:30 and then every 60 minutes for every line and outbound direction until 03:30. Some lines have an extra outbound departure at midnight. When travelling by night lines, every stop must be requested. Especially around midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, the buses tend to be very crowded on some lines as young people return from clubs. The routes of the public transport do change sometimes, especially due to trackworks and renovation. For example, in June 2019 the tram lines were all completely changed. If you have an older map, old tourist guide, etc., chances are the transport lines (numbers, destinations, transfer points) are no longer valid. Even Google Maps occasionally shows wrong terminal name or missing a stop, but the general direction of the route is accurate. Check online at either the official [https://www.idsbk.sk/en/information/maps-schemes/ IDS BK] site or at the unofficial [https://imhd.sk/ba/maps iMHD] site which has a wider range of maps, the information at stops (available in English), or ask your fellow passengers if not sure. If necessary, it is also possible to '''walk to Petrzalka station''' from the city (some 25 minutes). The path is clearly marked now but note that Petržalka is just a little more than the biggest block flats housing estate in Central Europe. Head for the bridge with the flying saucer-like looking tower atop it (Most SNP or also known as Nový most). Once you reach the bridge, you will notice that there is a walkway running along the underside of it, for pedestrians. Once on the other side of the Danube river, follow the right hand-side of the bridge with a walkway made of red paving. This will lead you to the station. Alternatively, you can walk through Bratislava's equivalent of the Central Park called Sad Janka Kráľa and visit the Aupark Shopping Mall at the park. Once exiting Aupark on the other side, turn right and follow the street to get to the pavement mentioned above. The route is very safe during the day, but for typically western-looking tourists, it might be dangerous at night (although not more than in any other European "panelák" (see above) housing estate). Take a guide, if needed. If you want to walk from the station to the city, turn right outside of the station building and follow the path described above in reverse direction. === Taxis === Do not take taxis waiting outside of major transfer points and tourist areas, such as main railway station, airport, bus station, Petrzalka train station, in front of Alizee nightbar at the northern corner of the city centre, etc. as they ''will'' rip you off. Taxis are cheaper in Bratislava when called in advance than when hailed on street. As a tourist, your best bet is to use one of the apps - '''Uber''' and '''Bolt''' are both present in Bratislava, although sometimes with longer waiting times compared to other cities. Other reliable taxi apps are '''Liftago''' and '''Hopin''', they support both payment by card or cash to the driver if you do not want to enter your card details (payment method has to be selected before ordering the taxi). == See == {{mapframe|48.141| 17.114|zoom=13}} {{mapshapes|Q1582299}} [[File:Bratislava, Hrad, Slovensko.jpg|right|thumb|Bratislava Castle]] ===Bratislava Castle=== If your time in Bratislava is limited, try to make a concerted effort to visit the castle. It's the main highlight of Bratislava, though it does require a short climb up several flights of stairs. To access the general castle precinct, use tram line 9 to Kapucínska. From Kapucínska, cross the dual carriageway on the overpass and then head south (left in direction from tram stop) onto Židovská. There will be a divide, but keep right and follow the cobblestone road. After a climb, you should see some stairs on your right – follow those stairs up until you reach the castle precinct. * {{see | name=Bratislava Castle | alt=Bratislavský hrad | url=http://www.snm.sk/?2003 | email= | address= | lat=48.1420 | long=17.1000 | directions= | phone=+421 2 54411444 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 | price=Adult €14 | wikidata=Q593311 | lastedit=2026-03-01 | content=The castle contains a Museum of Bratislava History, and a baroque garden. There is also a restaurant open till after the actual castle tours into the night. The general precinct area immediately outside the castle, including the vantage points of the city are usually always open during the daytime, and is free to access. }} ===Museums and galleries=== [[File:St Martin's cathedral, Bratislava, Slovakia.jpg|right|thumb|St. Martin's cathedral]] [[File:Ba-Franciscan church-interior.jpg|right|thumb|Franciscan church, interior]] For museum-goers, Bratislava is the place to go, with some bigger and loads of small '''museums''' around town. Every year in the weekend around 24 April Bratislava celebrates a festival called "Bratislava for All", giving locals and visitors the possibility to visit most of the facilities governed by the city for free or a reduced fee, this including most of the museums and galleries. In May, the city's museums and galleries keep their gates open to visitors until late at night, this being called the "Night of Museums and Galleries". * {{see | name=Red Crayfish Pharmacy Pharmacological Museum | alt=Farmaceutické múzeum | url=https://muzeumbratislava.sk/en/red-crayfish-pharmacy | email= | address=Michalská 28 | lat=48.14523 | long=17.10666 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00–18:00, closed Tuesdays | price= | wikidata=Q7303948 | content= }} * {{see | name=Slovak National Gallery (SNG) | alt= | url=http://www.sng.sk | email= | address= | lat=48.14008 | long=17.10858 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1744024 | content=For a taste of '''visual arts''', pay a visit to the National Gallery at the embankment between Starý most and Nový most with permanent collections of Slovak and European medieval art pieces, although the temporary exhibitions tend to be far more interesting. }} * {{see | name=Bratislava City Gallery (GMB) | alt= | url=http://www.gmb.sk | email= | address= | lat=48.144825 | long=17.107822 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q913415 | content=Bratislava City Gallery is also a good pick to see displays of historical fine arts, paintings and sculptures along with interesting temporary exhibitions. }} * {{see | name=Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum | alt= | url=http://www.danubiana.sk/ | email= | address= | lat=48.0341 | long=17.2326 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€12 | wikidata=Q1165115 | lastedit=2026-02-28 | content=If you like modern art better, pay a visit to the Danubiana Art Museum on the southern edge of Bratislava. It is about 20km from the city center, so too far to walk. Take bus nr 90 from the National Theater, a taxi, or drive. It is located on the Gabčíkovo Dam, a hydroelectric power plant. }} * {{see | name=Milan Dobes Museum | alt= | url=http://www.milandobes.sk/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This small museum features modernist Op-art. It lies in the city center and is recommended to all interested in the development of modern art. }} * {{see | name=National Museum | alt= | url=http://www.snm.sk/?lang=eng&section=home&org=3 | email= | address=Žižkova 14 | lat=48.14024 | long=17.11395 | directions=At the foot of Castle Hill | phone=+421 2 59207273 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Permanent archaelogical collections. }} * {{see | name=Bratislava City Museum | alt= | url=http://www.muzeum.bratislava.sk | email= | address= | lat=48.14377 | long=17.10875 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1512466 | content= }} * {{see | name=Natural Science Museum | alt= | url=http://www.snm.sk/?lang=eng&section=home&org=2 | email= | address=Vajanského nábrežie 2 | lat=48.14025 | long=17.11300 | directions= | phone=+421 2 59349122 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Echoing the communist era, the natural science exhibitions have an interesting collection of artifacts and is slowly being transformed into a modern era exhibition. }} * {{see | name=Gerulata | alt= | url=https://muzeumbratislava.sk/en/ancient-gerulata | email= | address=Gerulatská 7, 851 10 Rusovce | lat=48.0557 | long=17.1494 | directions= | phone=+421 2591 008 12 | tollfree= | hours=Closed November to March | price=€4 | wikipedia=Gerulata | lastedit=2026-02-28 | content=This is an ancient Roman military camp with archeological findings on display. If you're into all things Roman, you should also consider a visit to the nearby '''[http://www.carnuntum.at/de Carnuntum]''' which has a large archeological site and is a few minutes by car from Bratislava. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Transport | alt= | url=https://stm-ke.sk/en/branches/museum-of-transport-in-bratislava/basic-information | email= | address=Šancová 1/B | lat=48.156389 | long=17.106111 | directions=at the NE corner of the intersection for Pražská and Šancová, turn right to the pedestrian overpass and go up the stairs | phone=+421 2 52444163 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-17:00 (closed M) | price=Adults €8, students and seniors 65-70 €4, children 3-6 and seniors 70+ €1, children under 3 free. Free entry on first Wednesday of each month | wikidata=Q4958040 | lastedit=2024-09-23 | content=With a display of historical vehicles (automobiles, farm vehicles, bicycles, firefighting vehicles, railway, model ships and model buses) in the first railway station in the city, very close to the current Main Railway Station. Free parking in front of the museum for up to 4 hours by displaying the ticket on the dashboard. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Trade | alt= | url=http://www.muzeum.sk/?obj=muzeum&ix=mo | email= | address=Linzbothova 16 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 2 45243167 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This museum has some remarking pieces of historic advertising plates and other artifacts. }} * {{see | name=Jewish Community Museum | alt= | url=http://www.synagogue.sk | email= | address=Heydukova 11-13 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 2 5441 6949 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Rare Jewish ritual tools, gold-embroidered mantles protecting the holy biblical scrolls, unique photographs of students who had attended the famed Bratislava rabbi school that reveal even to this day the atrocities of the Holocaust. It is situated in the Heydukova Street Synagogue, which is the only synagogue in Bratislava. Constructed in 1923-1926, it is a Cubist building designed by the Bratislava-based Jewish architect Artur Szalatnai-Slatinský and is listed as a national cultural monument. Orthodox in orientation, the synagogue still serves as an active Jewish house of worship. The Jewish Community Museum with a permanent exhibition “The Jews of Bratislava and Their Heritage” is installed upstairs and during the summer season is open to the public up till September, every Friday 13:00 till 16:00 and every Sunday 10:00-13:00. }} * {{see | name=Museum of City History | alt= | url=http://www.muzeum.bratislava.sk/en/vismo/dokumenty2.asp?id_org=700016&id=1110&p1=1107 | email= | address= | lat=48.14369 | long=17.10913 | directions=in the old town hall | phone=+421 2 59205130 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-F 10:00–17:00, Sa Su 11:00–18:00 | price=€8 | lastedit=2026-03-01 | content=Including the museums of history and music as well as the city dungeon and the exhibition on medieval justice. }} * {{see | name=Devín Castle | alt=Hrad Devín | url=https://hraddevin.mmb.sk/en/ | email= | address=Muránska 10, 841 10 Devín | lat=48.174 | long=16.979 | directions=5 miles west, overlooking the Danube | phone=+421 2657 301 05 | tollfree= | hours=10:00–16:00, closed Mondays | price=€8 April to October, €6 November to March | wikipedia=Devín Castle | lastedit=2026-02-28 | content=There has been a fortress on this site since Roman times. In the 19th and early 20th century it became a Slovak national symbol. During the Communist dictatorship, it was part of the border zone which prevented people from escaping the country. }} ===Churches=== * {{see | name=St. Martin's Cathedral | alt=Dóm sv. Martina | url=http://dom.fara.sk/ | email= | address= | lat=48.1421 | long=17.1049 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Nov-Mar: M-Sa 09:00-11:30, 13:00-16:00, Su 13:30-16:00; Apr-Oct: Mon-Sa 09:00-11:30, 13:00-18:00, Su 13:30-16:00 | price=Entrance €2 | wikidata=Q239560 | content=The largest and one of the oldest churches in Bratislava, situated below Bratislava Castle. The Gothic cathedral, formerly the coronation-church of several Hungarian kings, begun in 1204, and reconsecrated in 1445, was restored in 1861-80. The tower is surmounted by a pyramid bearing a gilded Hungarian royal crown. }} * {{see | name=St. Clare's Church | alt=Kostol sv. Kláry | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Gothic church on Klariská street, in the historical center; now used as a concert hall. }} * {{see | name=Church of the Annunciation | alt=Kostol Zvestovania / Františkáni / Františkánsky kostol | url=http://www.frantiskani.sk | email= | address= | lat=48.14489 | long=17.10836 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1450292 | content= }} * {{see | name=Church of the Holy Savior | alt=Kostol Najsvätejšieho Spasitel'a | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.143889 | long=17.108611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6188001 | content= }} * {{see | name=Church of St. Elisabeth | alt=Kostol svätej Alžbety | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.143389 | long=17.116833 | directions=Located on Bezručova street | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q579043 | content=Nicknamed the '''Blue Church''' (Modrý kostolík), this is a beautiful Jugendstil church finished in 1913. }} * {{see | name=Trinitarian Church of Bratislava | alt=Kostol trinitárov | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.146111 | long=17.106667 | directions=On the Župné námestie square in the old town | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | wikidata=Q928414 | content= }} ===Other prominent buildings=== [[File:Bratyslawa Teatr Narodowy.jpg|thumb|The historic building of the Slovak National Theatre]] * {{see | name=Primate's Palace | alt=Primaciálny palác | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.143962 | long=17.108674 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q938516 | content=Now the seat of the Mayor of Bratislava. }} * {{see | name=Old Town Hall | alt=Stará radnica | url=https://muzeumbratislava.sk/en/old-town-hall | email= | address=Primaciálne square 3 | lat=48.14382 | long=17.10958 | directions=next to Primate's Palace | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€8 | lastedit=2026-03-01 | content=The Old Town Hall and Apponyi Palace is open to the public as a museum, with an exhibition of city history. }} * {{see | name=Grassalkovich Palace and gardens | alt=Grassalkovičov palác | url=http://bratislava-slovakia.eu/places/sightseeing/presidential-grassalkovich-palace-garden | email= | address= | lat=48.1492 | long=17.1078 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Also know as the '''Presidential Palace''' (Prezidentský palác) - a Rococo/late Baroque summer palace with a French garden, used as a seat of the President of Slovakia. In one of the garden's alleys you will see a row of trees planted by famous people such as Juan Carlos I (King of Spain). In front of the Palace you will see the Slovak National Guard. }} * {{see | name=Gallery Nedbalka | alt= | url=https://www.nedbalka.sk | email= | address= | lat=48.1441 | long=17.1111 | directions= | phone=+421 2207 660 31 | tollfree= | hours=13:00–19:00, closed Mondays | price=€8 | content=Gallery of modern Slovak art from the late 19th century, in a building reminiscent of the New York Guggenheim. }} * {{see | name=Mirbach Palace | alt=Mirbachov palác | url= | email= | address=Františkánske námestie 11, 811 01 | lat=48.14491 | long=17.10784 | directions= | phone=+421 2544 315 56 | tollfree= | hours=11:00–18:00, closed M | price=€8. Free entry with Bratislava Card | wikidata=Q752582 | lastedit=2026-03-01 | content=Rococo Palace built 1768–1770. Today it hosts the Bratislava City Gallery. }} * {{see | name=Palffy Palace | alt=Pálffyho palác | url= | email= | address=Panská 19, 811 01 | lat=48.1421 | long=17.1073 | directions= | phone=+421 949 002 147 | tollfree= | hours=11:00–18:00, closed M | price=€8. Free entry with Bratislava Card | lastedit=2026-03-01 | content=Rebuilt in the classical style in the 19th century by Count John Pálffy. Part of the Bratislava City Gallery. }} * {{see | name=Academia Istropolitana | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The oldest historic university in the area, which is now occupied by the state of Slovakia, from the 13th century. }} * {{see | name=Slovak National Theatre | alt=Slovenské národné divadlo | url= | email= | address= Hviezdoslavovo square | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The historic building of the Slovak National Theatre, built in 1886. }} * {{see | name=Slovak Radio Building | alt=Slovenský rozhlas | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.154167 | long=17.114167 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Slovak Radio Building | image=Upside down Pyramid, Bratislava 01.jpg | wikidata=Q7541547 | content=Its main building is a peculiar 60-m-high reversed pyramid from the communist era and a landmark in sharp contrast with the building of the Slovak National Bank just across the street. }} ===Monuments=== [[File:Slavin memorial, Bratislava.jpg|right|thumb|Slavín]] [[File:Ba-michalská brána.jpg|thumb|Michael's Gate]] * {{see | name=Slavín monument | alt= | url=http://bratislava-slovakia.eu/places/sightseeing/slavin | email= | address= | lat=48.15278 | long=17.09988 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1553111 | content=On the top of the hill behind the castle, overlooking the entire city. This is a monument in memory of Soviet casualties in the liberation battle of Bratislava in World War II. It is the highest place in the city, and thus the best place for viewing the city. Slavin is a cemetery and thus rather quiet. On warm nights it's a very romantic place, allowing you to sit in the shadows of the monument and look at the traffic below. To get there, take trolleybus no. 203 from Hodžovo námestie (in front of the Presidential Palace) in the direction Búdková and get off in 9 minutes at the last stop, then walk 500 m along Stará vinárska and then Pažického streets. Slavin is near an embassy district. }} * {{see | name=Roland Fountain | alt=Rolandova fontána | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.14335 | long=17.10814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4178866 | content=Built by stone cutter Andreas Luttringer and commissioned by Hungarian king Maximilian in 1527, this was the first fountain in Bratislava. }} * {{see | name=Michael's Gate with Tower | alt=Michalská brána | url=https://muzeumbratislava.sk/en/michaels-tower | email= | address=Michalská 22 | lat=48.14513 | long=17.10674 | directions= | phone=+421 2 5443 3044 | tollfree= | hours=10:00–18:00, closed Tuesdays | price= | wikidata=Q1717975 | content=This 51-m-high tower above the gate with its green copper roof is one of the best known and the oldest buildings in Bratislava. It was built in the 14th century as one of the four gates to the city. }} * {{see | name=Laurin's Gate | alt=Laurinská brána | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.143617 | long=17.110872 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1870194 | content= }} * {{see | name=Chatam Sofer Mausoleum | alt= | url=http://www.chatamsofer.sk | email= | address= | lat=48.14189 | long=17.09188 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4180493 | content= }} * {{see | name=Jewish Cemetery, Jewish Community Museum and Bratislava Synagogue | alt= | url=http://www.synagogue.sk | email= | address=Heydukova | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The only synagogue in Bratislava. }} ===Other sights=== * {{see | name=SNP Bridge | alt=Most Slovenského národného povstania, called Nový most from 1993 to 2012 | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.13686 | long=17.10458 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Entrance €6.50, but is free of charge if you eat in the restaurant | wikidata=Q837291 | content=A bridge over the Danube river, with its flying saucer-shaped structure housing a restaurant called [http://bratislava-slovakia.eu/places/sightseeing/ufo-tower "UFO"]. There is an observation deck on its roof, open from 10:00-23:00 daily, offering great views of the old town, as well as the apartment blocks in Petržalka. }} * {{see | name=Main Indoor Market | alt=Tržnica at Trnavské mýto | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.15745 | long=17.12610 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Sightseeing pass=== If you are visiting several attractions, you will be saving money by buying a Bratislava Card as this card is financially supported by the Slovak Ministry of Tourism and Sports to encourage tourism. * {{see | name=Bratislava Card | alt= | url=https://card.visitbratislava.com/discount/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=With unlimited public transportation: €30 for 24 hr, €36 for 48 hr, €39 for 72 hr. Without public transportation: €27 for 24 hr, €32 for 48 hr, €35 for 72 hr | lastedit=2026-03-01 | content=This is very good value, particularly if visiting for more than 24 hours. You can purchase either a physical or digital card. Available for 24, 48 or 72 hrs. Time starts when you first use the physical card or activates the digital card in its app and expires at the end of the purchased duration (not calendar day). Includes free guided downtown walking tour. Free access to 23 museums and galleries around Bratislava region and discounts in some museums and restaurants. Price is reasonable and you are likely going to recoup the cost of the card on the first day just by doing the walking tour and two attractions. }} ==Do== {{mapframe|name=Map of the region around Bratislava}} [[File:Bratislava Silvester 2006.jpg|right|thumb|Main Square during the New Year's Eve celebration, 2006]] Take a stroll through the centre of the town. Bratislava has one of the smallest historical centers of any European capital but the charm is more concentrated. The streets have been completely renovated over the last ten years, bringing life back here. Since then a multitude of cafes, bars and restaurants of all kinds have opened here, accompanied by a few souvenir shops and fashion stores. On warm days almost every cafe has an outdoor seating section in the street, bustling with life and giving the city a unique cozy feeling. When it comes to sightseeing, Bratislava Castle generally is a must and is already opened after the reconstruction. You can visit also '''[http://bratislava-slovakia.eu/places/sightseeing/slavin Slavin]''' memorial for some really astounding views of the city. It's a calm and romantic spot but beware, it can get really windy up there. The City Museum located in the '''Old Town Hall''' offers visitors climbing up the steep stairwells of the clock tower or seeing the town's historical dungeons, an exhibition that was quite outdated but still scary in 2008. In summer, you can also visit '''[http://www.zoobratislava.sk/?home Bratislava Zoo]''', providing a nice walk between the animal enclosures, the latest addition being some rare white tigers. The facilities of the zoo are slowly being renovated to attract more visitors and the zoo is a favourite for families on sunny days. You can also go to the '''Botanical Gardens''' of Comenius University (Botanická 3, take tram X6 to stop Botanická záhrada) for quiet and peaceful strolls in this green space. There are also several lakes opened for bathing. The biggest and probably the most famous lake is called [https://www.bratislava-slovakia.eu/things-to-do/lakes/zlate-piesky '''Zlaté piesky'''] (Golden Lakes) or [https://www.bratislava-slovakia.eu/lakes/bager '''Vajnorské jazerá'''], known as Bager lake (the later is used for bating only unofficially). For a relaxed afternoon in the '''park''', head either to Sad Janka Kráľa park (on the right bank of the river Danube and next to Aupark shopping centre), the oldest public park in central Europe, relax at the embankments on both sides of the river or head to Horský park (Forest Park) north off Slavin memorial for a civilized stroll through the forest. There's a small café here as well as a pub, the latter mostly populated by students from the nearby campus. For a more outdoorsy experience, hop on bus No 203/213 to Koliba and walk up to Kamzík (takes about 30 minutes uphill) or try the newly renovated facilities of Partizánska lúka and Snežienka, all with extensive '''picknicking areas''' and loads of fireplaces for grilling. The area is several kilometers long and you can either walk here from the terminal station of bus No 212 (Vojenska nemocnica) or take a bus to Patronka and use bus No 43 driving up the area and back every 15–30 minutes (depending on time of day/year as well as weather). Only cars with a permit can enter the area but there is a parking lot at the entrance, close to a bus stop. Snezienka's grass fields and the top of Kamzik hill are connected with a chairlift, operating Thursdays through Sundays and on holidays, the price for one ride being approx. €3. In December, be sure to indulge in the scents and flavours of the traditional '''[https://www.bratislava-slovakia.eu/things-to-do/christmas-market Christmas Market]''' in front of Old Town Hall and on the Hlavné námestie (main square). The market - compared to the ones in Prague and Vienna - is smaller, but has a much friendlier, almost family-like atmosphere and feels much more traditional and less overtly commercialized than others in the region. The people of Bratislava love to meet here for a drink and a bite to eat; try the 'varene vino' (mulled wine). * {{do | name=Speedboats.sk | alt= | url=http://www.speedboats.sk/en/ | email=info@speedboats.sk | address=Kúpeľná 6 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 903 610 716 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-04-27 | content=Enjoy the beautiful view of Bratislava and the surrounding nature of the river Danube during a Bratislava boat trip. }} *'''[http://www.befreetours.com Bratislava Free Tour]'''. Free walking tour covering the city's sights, culture & history. Every day at 11:00 and 15:00. === Culture === Bratislava is the home of the world famous [http://www.filharm.sk/ Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra] so if you love '''classical music''', you should consider attending one of the concerts in the historic Reduta building. For more cultural indulgence, the [http://www.snd.sk/?home Slovak National Theatre] offers a wide selection on '''ballet, opera and theatre performances'''. Although most of the activities have been moved to a city-district-in-the-making on the banks of the Danube, some performances are still being held in the historical theatre building, which gives them a unique feeling but a higher price tag as well. The old theatre building is right in the middle of the city at Hviezdoslavovo námestie. The new theatre is accessible by bus No 88 from the Coach Terminal at Mlynske nivy (get off at Landererova) or by buses No 50, 70 and 78 (stop is called Wüstenrot). None of these stop directly at the theatre though, so you should count on a 5- to 10-minute walk from the bus stop to the theatre. You cannot miss the building as it is of unmistakably communist megalomaniac design covered in white marble. The entrance is facing the Danube so you need to walk around the building to get in. === Cultural events === * {{do | name=International Film Festival Bratislava | alt= | url=http://www.iffbratislava.sk/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=International Film Festival Bratislava | wikidata=Q5860972 | content=Forever in December. }} *'''[http://comics-salon.sk/index.php?eng Comics-Salón]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' - An event dedicated to Japanese Anime & Manga, Fantasy and Sci-fi and its fans, but not only them! Great atmosphere, friendly folk and lots of fun awaits you there. The roots of this event stretch back to 2004, when it was held for the first time. Now, once every year early in September [[Bratislava]] enjoys the rush of people from all over Europe to participate in this unique event. ===Music events=== * {{do | name=The Uprising Music Festival | alt= | url=http://www.uprising.sk/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Smaller multigenre music festival. Yearly in the end of August in [[Bratislava]]. }} ===Sports=== * '''Football:''' The men's national soccer team play at Tehelné pole (capacity 22,500) 2 km northeast of city centre. [https://www.skslovan.com/ SK Slovan Bratislava] the leading club also play here in Slovak Super Liga, the top tier. * '''Ice hockey''' is the national sport of Slovakia. The local hockey team, [http://www.hcslovan.sk/en/ HC Slovan Bratislava], plays games frequently throughout each year beginning in September and concluding in the spring of the following year. Home games are played at [http://bratislava-slovakia.eu/places/hockey-stadium Ondrej Nepela Arena stadium], Odbojárov 9. Many Slovaks are passionate about both watching and playing ice hockey. The stadium can be reached easily by public transport. * '''Adventure sports:''' A popular activity among locals and tourists especially during a stag party is [https://bratislavashootingclub.com/ target shooting in Bratislava]. For some extreme adventure in the pure nature Slovaks and visitors can try to [https://www.canoetrips.sk/ sail the river Small Danube in a canoe]. Water sports in general are among the most beloved sports activities with many successful sportsmen such as the Hochschorner brothers. Centrally located option for adventure is [https://theaxethrowing.com/en/bratislava/ axe throwing] with location on right bank of Danube. ===Meet people=== Over the last two decades, many foreigners have been moving to Bratislava to study and work at the many international companies that created new jobs. After work, many expatriates and their Slovak friends hang out at casual events where everybody speaks English and enjoys the evening together. For travelers to Bratislava, joining these usually free events is an excellent and fun opportunity to meet local people and learn from them about what one should see or do in Bratislava next day. A few recommendations are: '''Bratislava Language Exchange Meeting''', where people from different countries get together at tables and teach each other a foreign language. '''[http://www.toastmasters.org/Find-a-Club/01174714-01174714 Toastmasters Club Bratislava]''', a speech club where people practice their public speaking skills. '''Bratislava Expat Meetup''' and '''International Meetings''' for the more business-oriented crowd that seeks to expand their network while having a glass of Martini in a stylish sky bar. '''International Students Parties''', where the foreign exchange students dance the night away and knock out their brains. Upcoming events can be found in this '''[https://www.visitbratislava.com/event/ calendar of events]'''. '''City Tours''' * [https://bratislavacitytours.sk Bratislava City Tours] — Licensed tour operator offering guided day trips from Vienna to Bratislava, walking tours of Bratislava Old Town, and private city tours. Guided tours include Old Town walking tour, panoramic city tour by minivan, and Bratislava Castle. Tours operate year-round in English and German. Departure from Vienna Hauptbahnhof. ==Work== Slovakia is a member of the European Union, therefore, any citizen of a European Union, European Economic Area country or Switzerland can work and live there without restrictions. Qualified third nationals can get a work permit. This system still uses bribes. For more information on working in the Slovak Republic, see [[Slovakia#Work]]. ==Buy== Tourists seeking duty-free goods should be warned to make their purchases before returning to the airport as duty-free goods available in the departure lounge are roughly double the cost of identical goods purchased in local supermarkets. Shop in the large and expanding [https://www.bratislava-slovakia.eu/things-to-do/bratislava-shopping shopping centers]: * {{buy | name=Aupark | alt= | url=http://www.aupark.sk | email= | address= | lat=48.13293 | long=17.10766 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Polus City Center | alt= | url=http://www.polus.sk | email= | address= | lat=48.16856 | long=17.13886 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Avion | alt= | url=http://www.avion.sk/ | email= | address= | lat=48.1658 | long=17.1808 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Shopping Palace | alt= | url=http://www.shoppingpalace.sk/ | email= | address= | lat=48.186 | long=17.1785 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Eurovea | alt= | url=http://www.eurovea.com/en/ | email= | address= | lat=48.14011 | long=17.12403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Central | alt= | url=http://www.central.sk/ | email= | address= | lat=48.15715 | long=17.12982 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content= }} == Eat == [[File:paparazzi.jpg|thumb|The Paparazzo statue which stood in the Old Town until 2013 has been moved to Restaurant UFO.]] '''Bryndzové halušky''' (small, spaetzle-like dumplings with sheep's cheese and topped with pieces of meat) is the national dish of Slovakia and recommended to try. Potent garlic soup (but perhaps not on a date) and Slovak white wine (due to its cooler climate, Slovakia's reds pale in comparison with some of Europe's other offerings), schnitzels, goulashes and other typically Central European foods. Fresh vegetables are more common here thanks to the large amount of land given over to agriculture. In December, don't miss the '''Christmas market''' in front of the Old Town Hall. The traditional foods of the Christmas market are roasted pork or chicken sandwich burgers ("ciganska pecienka") with mustard and onions, potato pancakes ("loksa") with various fillings ranging traditionally from plain ones with goose fat, with garlic or goose liver to poppy seed, nut or chocolate. Bread with pork fat and onions is also popular. Also there are a few stands which offer specialities from other European countries. You can wash down the food with a cup of red or white mulled wine or a small cup of honey wine, also tea with or without rum is available, as well as grog or other "hot mixed drinks" like the Červený medveď (red bear). There are a large number of restaurants in the center of Bratislava in all price ranges so there are plenty to choose from. ===Budget=== Bratislava's special form of junk food is '''richman''', a big bread roll filled with cabbage and cheese and/or meat with mayonnaise. Richman stands can be found on Kamenné námestie, in front of the Tesco building, and in Safarikovo square. You can also try a sub sandwich from one of the many cafeterias in the city. Another excellent cafeteria is on Zelená Ulica between Ventúrska Ulica and Hlavné námestie. A big sandwich, a '''bageta''' (from the French baguette) with cheese, ham and eggs would cost you about €1.50. Another specialty in Bratislava (but also available in other regions of Slovakia) is '''treska'''. It is a cold salad made of cod (fish) with mayonnaise. There are also vegetables such as onions and carrots in the salad. It has a distinctive taste, somewhere between sour and bitter. You can buy it fresh in most "Lahôdky" shops, which means something like "delicacies", but generally stands for old-fashioned fast food shops which sell salads, soups, etc. Treska is very good with rolls. Can also buy it packed to take home. If you want to '''self-cater''', the largest supermarket near the centre is the underground Tesco on Kamenné námestie ({{rint|tram}} Centrum). You could easily have lunch consisting of a couple of bread rolls, ham, cheese, fruit and maybe a cake or two, for €3-4. New shopping malls with big cinemas and of course food courts within reach of the centre are '''Aupark''' on the right bank of the Danube (next to Sad Janka Kráľa park, some 10 minutes from St Martins's Cathedral), '''Eurovea''' (next to the old bridge on the old town bank of river, close to the bus station), '''Polus City Center''' on Vajnorská Street to the north of the city (some 10–15 minutes from the city by tram) and '''Bory Mall''' on the north-western edge of the city. ====In the city centre==== * {{eat | name=Góvinda reštaurácia | alt= | url=https://www.govinda-bratislava.sk/ | email= | address=Obchodná 518/30 | lat=48.14711 | long=17.11047 | directions= | phone=+421 2 5296 2366, +421 911 947 108 (cell.) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:30-16:00 | price=| lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Hare Krishna-operated restaurant popular with vegans and very affordable. }} * {{eat | name=KGB Krčma Gurmánov Bratislavy | alt= | url=http://kgbpub.sk/ | email= | address=Obchodná 530/52 | lat=48.14800 | long=17.11167| directions=| lastedit=2022-05-01 | phone=+421 2 527 312 79 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-W 11:00-00:00, Th 11:00-01:00, F 11:00-02:00, Sa 16:00-02:00 | price= | content=Communism-themed pub with high-quality beers and affordable prices. }} * {{eat | name=U Sedliaka | alt= | url= | email= | address=55, Obchodná 567 | lat=48.1485642 | long=17.1124898 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-08-20 | content=Good typical Slovak dishes and great background music. Nice atmosphere at affordable price.}} * {{eat | name=Olive Tree | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vysoká 14 | lat=48.1487318 | long=17.1103387 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Good selection of Slovac cuisine}} ====Near the city centre==== * {{eat | name=Divný Janko Reštaurácia | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/restauraciadivnyjanko/ | email= | address=Jozefská 2991/2 | lat=48.15088 | long=17.10966 | directions= | phone=+421 2 442 515 58 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 11:00-23:00, F-Sa 11:00-00:00, Su 11:00-23:00 | price=| lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Slovak and international dishes in a nice, retro ambience, the only downside is that the staff can be rude. }} ===Mid-range=== Interestingly, it is rather hard to find a '''Slovak restaurant''' among all the Italian, Chinese, Mexican, Indian and other eateries. * {{eat | name=Slovak Pub | alt= | url=http://www.slovakpub.sk/en/ | email=rezervacie@slovakpub.sk | address=Obchodná 62 | lat=48.14844 | long=17.11254 | directions= | phone=+421 2 52926367 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-08-21 | content=For good and reasonably priced halušky, the unique Slovak national meal, visit the Slovak Pub on Obchodna. This is a traditional eatery with a nice ambience. Portion size leans towards the small side. Not wheelchair accessible. }} * {{eat | name=Flagship | alt= | url=https://bratislavskarestauracia.sk/ | email= | address=Námestie SNP 8, 811 02 | lat=48.14603 | long=17.11014 | directions= | phone=+421 917 927 673 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-02-28 | content=Slovak national cuisine including halušky, in a converted theatre. Lacklustre service. Same company as Slovak Pub, who also own brewery Kláštorný pivovar, and café Franz Xaver Messerschmidt next door. }} * {{eat | name=San Marten | alt= | url=http://www.sanmarten.sk/ | email= | address=Panská 172/33 | lat=48.14148 | long=17.10569 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=San Marten is an Italian restaurant with great food and excellent service at affordable prices. }} * {{eat | name=Bistro SOHO | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/soho.dunajska/ | email= | address=Laurinská 141 | lat=48.14409 | long=17.11170 | directions= | phone=+421 948 380 530 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-S 10:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=Asian fusion cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Mille Baci | alt= | url=http://www.millebaci.sk | email=ordine@millebaci.sk | address=Námestie SNP č.1 | lat=48.14576 | long=17.11036 | directions= | phone=+421 917 138 767 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=Italian restaurant specializing in dishes from Veneto. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=UFO | alt= | url=http://www.u-f-o.sk/en/index.html | email= | address=Most SNP 1 | lat=48.1368316 | long=17.1046142 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=You can get a nice view and can meet some local celebrities at the übercool and very expensive UFO restaurant and disco on top of Nový most bridge. }} * {{eat | name=ECK | alt= | url=https://www.eckrestaurant.com/ | email= | address=K zlatému rohu 36, 841 10 Devín | lat=48.1738 | long=16.9951 | directions=About 5 miles west of the city centre | phone=+421 911 513 387 | tollfree= | hours=Tu–F 18:00–22:00| price=€150 for the tasting menu | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-25 | content=Regarded as one of the best restaurants in Slovakia, bookings open two months in advance and sell out almost immediately. }} ==Drink== [[File:Hlavné námestie-The napoleonic soldier, Old Town Hall and Roland Fountain-Bratislava.JPG|right|thumb|Hlavné námestie (Main Square), Bratislava Old Town]] Try '''Kofola''', a Slovak and Czech soft drink with a similar colour to Coca-Cola, but lower in sugar and caffeine (and carbonation). Some places serve "draft Kofola" which indeed is draft from a barrel in a way similar to beer (it used to be co-produced by a Bratislava brewery). Some Slovaks say draft Kofola is even better than the bottled version and that it is best enjoyed outside in the sun, for example after a hike or a bike or rollerblade ride. Kofola is a popular alternative to beer if you want to hang out but don't want to drink alcohol. '''Vinea''' is another genuine Slovak soft drink made from grapes, offered both in "white" (green grapes) and "red" varieties (red grapes) and even in a rather sweet and maybe not-so-tasty "soft" version without carbon dioxide. There are quite a few Slovak beer brands, e.g. '''Zlatý Bažant, Šariš, Smädný Mních and Topvar'''. '''Stein''' beer is a local Bratislava variety which used to be brewed practically in the city centre. There are three micro-breweries offering beer in Bratislava, Mestiansky Pivovar, Richtar Jakub and Patronka. If spirits are more your thing, perhaps you will enjoy '''Slivovica''', a fruit-plum brandy of high quality that is associated with Slovakia. ===Coffee=== * {{drink | name=Čiary | url= | email= | address=Laurinská 138/11, 811 01 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=F–M 10:05–18:55; closed Tu–Th | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=grão | url= | email= | address=Jesenského 194/12, 811 02 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 944 294 763 | tollfree= | hours=M–F 08:00–19:00; Sa–Su 09:00–19:00 | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Kaviareň Vták | url=https://www.kaviarenvtak.sk | email= | address=Špitálska 2214/20, 811 08 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M–F 08:00–17:00; Sa–Su 09:00–17:00 | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=KOFI | url=https://www.kofi.sk | email= | address=Karadžičova 4105/33, 811 08 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 905 372 561 | tollfree= | hours=M–F 07:30–17:30; Sa 09:30–15:00; closed Su | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=MONO | url= | email= | address=1062, Budovateľská 1062/25, 821 08 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M–Th 08:30–15:00; closed F–Sa; Su 10:00–15:00 | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Brew Bar Café | url=https://www.brewbar.sk | email= | address=Rožňavská 1/A, 831 04 Nové Mesto | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 918 411 737 | tollfree= | hours=M–F 07:30–19:00; Sa 08:00–16:00; closed Su | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=SVÄG TO GO | url= | email= | address=Kozia 22, 811 03 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 911 246 553 | tollfree= | hours=M–F 07:00–17:00; Sa 09:00–14:00; closed Su | price= | content= }} ===Bars=== The best pubs offering Slovak beers can be found in the Old Town: Kristian in Michalska street or Bar Parada in Hviezdoslavovo square. All of them are quite cheap (about €1 per half-liter glass of beer). Obchodna street is also full of cheap bars targeting students and younger crowds, for example Baron and Starter (you can also smoke inside). * {{drink | name=BeAbout | url=http://www.beabout.sk | email= | address=Presernova 4 | lat=48.148376 | long=17.10731 | directions=Vajanskeho nabrezie 10, near Safarikovo námestie | phone=+421 948-050107 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-Th 10:00-00:00, F Sa 10:00-05:00 | price= | content=Music club near the riverside popular with younger crowd. Good selection of beers including Belgian specialty beers. }} * {{drink | name=Casa del Havana | alt= | url=http://www.havanacafe.sk/index.php?lang=en | email=havanacafe@havanacafe.sk | address=Michalská 26 | lat=48.14498 | long=17.10686 | directions= | phone=+421 910 797 222 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:00-02:00 mostly | price= | content=A Cuban-style restaurant and bar near the centre of the Bratislava Old Town. Not very spacious, but has a comfortable terrace. Particularly famous for the mojito, which has been considered the best in Bratislava, if not in all Slovakia. Mojito €6.49. }} * {{drink | name=UFO | url=http://www.u-f-o.sk | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=If you want to go for extraordinary, visit UFO. It looks like a cliché flying saucer and it's a high on the SNP Bridge (the member of great-towers.com), and you have to use a lift to go there. There is a good restaurant and lounge bar and observation deck. The view is incomparable. }} * '''[https://www.bukowski.sk/ Bukowski],''' Namestie SNP 24. Cozy bohemian bar with a nice courtyard next to Fuga Club. Drinks are cheap, beers at €2. * '''[https://www.bohemabar.sk/web/?dt_portfolio=project001 Bohema Bar]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }},''' Namestie SNP 30. Similar to Bukowski, more upscale, very busy on weekends. Sometimes they play music with dj sets or live bands. Gin Tonic €4.10. ===Clubs=== Larger clubs in Bratislava include Luna Bar (entry only with passport) and [http://www.theclubbratislava.com/ The Club]. There are a few small underground clubs with electronic music, such as [http://fuga.forumabsurdum.sk/ Fuga] on Namestie SNP, Teleport at Michael's Gate and [http://www.mojaradost.sk/ Radost]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (very small but atmospheric) on Obchodná Street. Avoid places like Channels and Trafo where it's 90% men and bouncers are rude. === Gay and lesbian === * {{drink | name=ruido.cafe | url=http://www.ruido.cafe | email= | address=Michalská 7, 811 03 Staré Mesto | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu–Th 17:00–00:00, F–Sa 17:00–02:00, Su 12:00–20:00 | price= | content=Gay bar. }} * {{drink | name=Apollon Gay Club | url= | email= | address=Panenská 24, 811 03 Staré Mesto | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 948 900 092 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W–Th 21:00–01:00, F–Sa 21:00–04:00 | price= | content=Gay bar. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Castle Devin - walls and river.JPG|right|thumb|Danube River in Bratislava]] Accommodation prices usually do not include city tax. For 2024 the city tax was €3.50/person/night for Old Town, 3.00€ for other districs. Students up to age 26 and youths up to 18 do not need to pay city tax. ===Budget=== *{{sleep | name=Patio Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.patiohostel.com/ | email= | address=Špitálska 35 | lat=48.147400 | long=17.114900 | directions=opposite Mariánska tram stop | phone=+421 2 529 257 97 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-02-08 | content=Very popular, in the centre, close to the train & bus stations, easily reachable from the airport. Dorms and privates, free Internet, parking lot, laundry. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostel Chors | alt=Capsule & NFT Boutique Hostel Bratislava | url=https://www.cho.rs/ | email=reservations@cho.rs | address=Obchodná 43 | lat=48.148200 | long=17.111700 | directions=middle of the centre of Old City | phone=+421 910 127 878 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-02-08 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Wild Elephants Hostel | alt= | url=https://elephants.sk/ | email=info@elephants.sk | address=Františkánske námestie 413/8, 811 01 Staré Mesto | lat=48.146100 | long=17.109500 | directions= | phone=+421 908 821 174 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-02-08 | content=Accommodations available for people aged 18-40 years old only. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Hotel Arcus | alt= | url=https://www.hotelarcus.sk/ | email=bratislava@hotelarcus.sk | address=Moskovská 5 | lat=48.151400 | long=17.121300 | directions= | phone=+421 2 5557 2522 | tollfree= | fax=+421 2 5557 6750 | checkin= | checkout=11:00 | price= | lastedit=2026-02-08 | content=Nice family hotel, big rooms and bathrooms, fresh cooked breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Aston Business Hotel | alt= | url=http://hotelaston.sk/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Boutique Apartments Possonium | alt= | url=https://www.possonium.sk/en | email= | address=Šancová 20 | lat=48.155700 | long=17.109700 | directions= | phone=+421 2 2072 0007 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-02-08 | content=Only 3 minutes by walk from Hlavna stanica (main railway station). Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, internet, free laundry, cosy bar, great chill out in the garden. }} * {{sleep | name=Downtown Bratislava Hotel | alt=Downtown Bratislava B&B | url=https://us2.cloudbeds.com/en/reservation/3JyXub?currency=eur | email= | address=Panenská 31 | lat=48.148200 | long=17.106000 | directions= | phone=+421 2 5464 1191 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-02-08 | content=18 minutes' walk from the central station. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Bratislava | alt= | url=http://hotelaston.sk/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Holiday Inn | alt= | url=http://www.holidayinn.sk/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Ibis | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/3566/index.en.shtml | email= | address=Zamocka 38 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Double rooms from €48, in central location, just a short walk from the Old town. }} * {{sleep | name=Mercure Bratislava Centrum Hotel | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6840/index.en.shtml | email= | address=Zabotova 2 | lat= | long= | directions=Hlavná stanica 400 m | phone= | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=From €55 | lastedit=2017-10-17 | content=Mid-scale business hotel (with aggressively modern decorations), a short walk from the main railway station. About 15–20 minutes’ walk from the old town, with frequent trams and buses available. Rate includes wired and wireless Internet access. }} * {{sleep | name=Saffron Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.hotelsaffron.sk/ | email= | address=Radlinského 27, 811 07 | lat=48.1528 | long=17.1176 | directions= | phone=+421 2212 993 01 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=11:00 | price=Around €100 | lastedit=2026-02-28 | content=Business Hotel, walking distance to the old town, or a 10 minute tram. Parking available for €12/day. Superb gym, which unfortunately is only open 10am–10pm. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Albrecht | alt= | url=https://www.hotelalbrecht.sk/ | email= | address=Mudronova 82 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 2 672 000 91 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Design hotel with 12 rooms and suites nestled on hill above Bratislava castle and Old Town. The Albrecht features flagship restaurant and lounge bar as well as lavish urban spa - unique in Bratislava. }} * {{sleep | name=Arcadia | alt= | url=https://www.arcadia-hotel.sk/homesite/ | email= | address=Františkánska 3 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 2 594 905 00 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Boutique hotel with heritage-style decor. }} * {{sleep | name=Devín | alt= | url=http://www.hoteldevin.sk/ | email= | address=Riečna 4 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= Traditional hotel with 100 rooms and suites in the historical centre of Bratislava, walking distance to all main attraction. It provides accommodation, restaurant, conference services and relaxation center with pool. }} * {{sleep | name=Gate One | alt= | url=http://www.hotelgateone.sk/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Business and conference hotel near airport. }} * {{sleep | name=Kempinski Hotel River Park | alt= | url=http://www.kempinski.com/bratislava | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Directly overlooking the Danube. }} * {{sleep | name=Marroll's | alt= | url=http://www.hotelmarrols.sk/ | email= | address=Tobrucka 4 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 2 57784600 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Park Inn by Radisson Danube Bratislava | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/park-inn-bratislava-danube | email=info.bratislava@rezidorparkinn.com | address=Rybne Namestie 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 2 5934 0000 | tollfree= | fax=+421 2 5441 4311 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Central location. }} * {{sleep | name=Perugia | alt= | url=http://www.perugia.sk/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Near the main square. }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Blu Carlton Hotel, Bratislava | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-bratislava-carlton | email=reservation.bratislava@radissonblu.com | address=Hviezdoslavovo nam 3 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 2 59390000 | tollfree= | fax=+421 (2) 5939 0010 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=In the heart of Bratislava, it has been fully renovated and retains many of its original features. }} * {{sleep | name=Sheraton Bratislava Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.sheratonbratislava.com/ | email= | address=Pribinova 12 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= In Bratislava's sophisticated new city center EUROVEA, the first Sheraton hotel in Slovakia offers 186 stylish guest rooms and 23 suites and Shine Spa - wellness center with indoor swimming pool, saunas, 24/7 gym and many different massages. }} * {{sleep | name=Falkensteiner Bratislava Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.falkensteiner.com/sk/hotel/bratislava | email= | address=Pilarikova 5 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= Close to city centre, business hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Beigli Hotel & Garden | alt= | url=https://www.hotelbeigli.sk/ | email= | address=Baštová 4, Staré Mesto | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 904 006 026 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=In the city center - no car access. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Hradná Brána | alt= | url=https://www.hradnabrana.sk/ | email= | address=Slovanské nábrežie 15 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 2-601 025 11 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=First class hotel has a panoramic view over the Devín castle. It provides accommodation, restaurant, congressional and relaxation services. }} ==Connect== As of Sept 2021, Bratislava has 4G from O2, Orange and Swan, and 5G from Telekom. You might also get a signal from any of the Austrian or Hungarian carriers. Wifi is widely available in the city and establishments. City offers Wifi hotspots in some areas of downtown under the SSID name "VisitBratislava". Similarly with mobile calls, check before dialling which country's network your phone is latched onto. ==Stay safe== Bratislava is generally very safe by Western standards. It is quite small and the crime rate is low. There is a significant police presence in the city, especially the historical parts, and it is generally not a problem to walk around the city at night. The centre especially is under camera surveillance. There is very little violent crime in Bratislava. Walking alone after midnight outside of the historical centre is not recommended on Fridays, since you could have an unpleasant encounter with rowdy drunks who could congregate around cheaper establishments. If a problem occurs, you can reach the police on phone number 158. General emergency number (police, fire dept., ambulance) can be reached by dialing 112. Always ask for printed receipts in establishments to avoid being overcharged. Especially taxi drivers might try to do that. For reference, the usual fare is around €4 around the town, and you shouldn't be charged more than around €10 getting anywhere in Bratislava. Your best bet is to call a taxi dispatch or use one of the mobile apps (see above). Ask around for a recommendation in your hotel/hostel. On pedestrian crossings without traffic lights, watch out for aggressive drivers. Some of them might not give you the right of way. ==Cope== ===Embassies=== *{{flag|Austria}} {{listing | name=Austrian embassy | url=http://www.bmeia.gv.at/botschaft/pressburg.html | email=pressburg-ob@bmeia.gv.at | address=Hodžovo námestie 1/A | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 2 593 015 | tollfree= | fax=+421 2 544 324 86 | hours= }} * {{flag|Finland}} {{listing | name=Finland | url=http://www.finlandembassy.sk| email=sanomat.brt@formin.fi | address=Palisády 29/A, 4. poschodie, 811 06 Bratislava | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 2-5980 5111 | tollfree= | fax=+421 2-5980 5120 | hours=M-F 09:00-11:30 | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Georgia}} {{listing | name=Georgia | url=http://www.slovakia.mfa.gov.ge | email=bratislava.emb@mfa.gov.ge | address=Michalska 9, 811 01 Bratislava 1 | lat=48.144706 | long=17.106673 | directions= | phone=+421 2 5464 6484 | tollfree= | fax=+421 2 5464 6486 | hours= | price= | content= }} *{{Flag|Poland}} {{Listing|name=Poland|alt=|url=http://bratyslawa.msz.gov.pl|email=bratyslawa.amb.sekretariat@msz.gov.pl|address=Paulínyho 7, 814 91 Bratislava|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+421 2 59490211|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|wikidata=|lastedit=2019-08-24|content=}} * {{flag|Romania}} {{listing | name=Romania | alt= | url=http://bratislava.mae.ro/en | email=bratislava@mae.ro | address=Fraňa Kraľa 11, Staré Mesto | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+421 2 207 27 147 | tollfree= | fax=+421 2 207 27 547 | hours=M-F 9:00-17:00 | price= | lastedit=2021-12-03 | content= }} * {{Flag|Spain}}{{Listing|name=Spain|url=https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Embajadas/bratislava/es/Paginas/index.aspx|email=emb.b​ratislava@maec.es|address=Prepoš​tská 10, 811 01 Bratislava|phone=+421 2 5441 57 24|fax=+421 2 432 917 27|hours=M-F 09:00 - 15:00|lastedit=2023-04-09}} *{{Flag|United Kingdom}} {{Listing|name=United Kingdom|alt=|url=https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-bratislava|email=britishembassybratislava@fco.gov.uk|address=Panská 16, 811 01 Bratislava|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+421 2 5998 20 00|tollfree=|fax=+421 2 5998 22 37|hours=|price=|wikipedia=|wikidata=|image=|content=}} ==Go next== * The castle [https://hradcervenykamen.sk/?lang=en Červený kameň] is located about 30&nbsp;km north-east of Bratislava; it can be reached by bus from Mlynske Nivy bus terminal. * Do like the locals and hike in the Small Carpathians mountain range. Bratislava lies on the southeast slopes of these mountains. Hiking routes are well indicated. * Visit the [[Small Carpathians Wine Region]]; on the southern slopes of the Small Carpathians there are extensive vineyards and typical wine villages and towns like [[Rača]], [[Pezinok]] or [[Modra]]. If you are more interested in local wines, follow the Little Carpathians Wine Route. * Visit Cachtice castle, associated with the blood-thirsty deeds of countess Bathory. It is a large and picturesque ruin set on a hilltop above the small village of Visnove. Take the train north from Bratislava to Nove Mesto nad Vahom (75 minutes), and then change to a small local train for the short journey west to Visnove (15 minutes). * The [[Mutenice Wine Region|Mutěnice Wine Region]] near the Slovak border in the [[Czech Republic]] is well worth a weekend visit. It has some of the best wine in the Czech Republic and many great small cellars to visit. You'll need to take a train to [[Breclav|Břeclav]] and then from there to [[Hodonin|Hodonín]]. * Take the train to [[Trencin|Trenčin]] (one hour and forty minutes), a Slovak town to the north of the capital with a towering hill-top castle and a picturesque old town centre spread out below it. * The [http://www.carnuntum.co.at Carnuntum archaeological park] is located 25&nbsp;km from Bratislava, across the [[Austria]]n border. The site offers the chance to see the excavations of an ancient Roman city. It is worth a one-day visit together with a stop in the old walled city of Hainburg, the first major town in Austria after crossing the Slovak border. * [[Lednice-Valtice]] in the south-eastern corner of the Czech Republic is a [[UNESCO World Heritage]] site containing one of Europe's largest Palacial parklands. * [[Senec]] is a small town 30&nbsp;km to the west of Bratislava, with the lake resort "Slnečné jazerá" ("Sunny Lakes"). It is a cool place to swim or relax at the beach in the summer months. * You can use the bus no. 91 of the public transport company of Bratislava (DPB) going to Čunovo in order to cross between Rajka (Hungary) and Bratislava (Slovakia). In Bratislava, the bus has Nový most as its terminus, and near the Hungarian border you get on/off at the stop Čunovské jazerá (you need to signal to the driver if you plan to get off at this stop). From Čunovské jazerá it's a four-kilometer-long straight walk through a flat terrain to the town of Rajka, two kilometers on each side of the border. You may detour to visit a monument at the Austrian-Hungarian-Slovakian three country border. * The public transport company of Bratislava (DPB) runs a cross-border bus line no. 901 between Hainburg an der Donau (Austria) and Bratislava (Slovakia), with a stop also in the Austrian town of Wolfsthal. In Bratislava, the terminus is the stop Nový most. Note that even though the bus stops at Einsteinova street before crossing the border, it is not possible to alight until reaching Wolfsthal. * Surrounding major/capital cities [[Vienna]] ([[Austria]]), [[Budapest]] ([[Hungary]]), [[Brno]]/[[Prague]] ([[Czech Republic]]) are easily accessible by inter-state buses and trains. {{routebox| placename=Bratislava | image1=EV 6 Atlantic Ocean to Black Sea.svg | imagesize1=30 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Vienna]] | minorl1= | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Budapest]] | minorr1=[[Gyor]] | link1=[[ EuroVelo cycling routes]] | caption1= }} {{usablecity}} {{geo|48.143889|17.109722}} {{isPartOf|Western Slovakia}} bgml0mvh4bovujgxuw1fke3o4oa3a5g 0 5212 5288894 5244210 2026-06-06T16:15:01Z ~2026-33492-54 2419091 /* Do */ Changed tie island hopping text, as it was outdated 5288894 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mena-asia_default_banner.jpg}} [[File:Busuanga.JPG|thumb|500px|Northern Busuanga]] '''Busuanga''' is the largest Island of the [[Calamian archipelago]] in the northern part of [[Palawan]] province in the [[Philippines]]. Nice beaches, gentle landscape, good hiking and great diving make the island a good holiday destination. Wreck diving is the main attraction and many Japanese ships wait patiently for you under the sea. Nearby Coron Island has the beautiful Kayangan and Barracuda lakes the latter is known for its thermoclines and fabled gigantic barracudas. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}} {{mapshape}} Busuanga is the closest point in Palawan from Manila and is quite accessible from Manila. ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Francisco B. Reyes Airport | alt={{IATA|USU}} | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.121389 | long=120.1 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Francisco B. Reyes Airport | image=Francisco B Reyes Airport.jpg | wikidata=Q3500743 | content=serves the general area of Busuanga, you can fly into Busuanga with [http://www.cebupacificair.com/ Cebu Pacific], or Philippines Airlines. The flight from Manila takes one hour. The trip from the airport to the town of Coron will take about 40 to 50 minutes. }} ===By boat=== The '''2GO''' ferry stops in [[Coron]] on its way to Puerto Princesa. Leaves [[Manila]] on Friday afternoon and arrives in Coron early Saturday morning. Heads back to Manila on Sunday night. Wait until a couple of days before it departs to get cheaper tickets. Don't wait too long, though. There is also a ship from [[El Nido]] to Coron town. The trip takes at least 6 hours. The ship is a small crab ship. You will feel uncomfortable, if the winds are heavy. ==Get around== * '''Jeepney''' is one option for tourists from the airport. Vans carrying 6 to 8 people cost about {{PHP|150}} per person. Once in [[Coron]], you can rent another transportation mean. ==See== * The largest town on the Island is '''[[Coron]]'''. * {{see | name=Calauit Game Preserve and Wildlife Sanctuary | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calauit Island | lat= | long= | directions=on the north side of Busuanga | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=This reserve created by Presidential decree in 1976 houses various African species (giraffes included...) wandering in the wild. }} ==Do== * '''Wreck diving''' is extremely popular around Busuanga. Several Japanese World War II ships lay in good conditions in shallow water (the Skeleton Wreck is even visible for snorkellers), making for excellent dives even for amateur divers. :*[http://www.seadiveresort.com ''' Sea Dive Resort'''] {{dead link|December 2020}}: Located in the heart of Coron town. Seadive is the only PADI authorized dive shop in Coron. Seadive also owns the only recompression chamber in Palawan and dives with the lowest diver to dive master ratio in Coron. :*[http://corondivers.com.ph/ '''Coron Divers''']{{Dead link|date=August 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}: The only Dive Center owned by a Filipino, Arni is the big boss and his sons are divemasters. Everything makes you feel in a Filipino family (even more if you stay at Chinette's lodge, 10 m away in front of Coron Divers). :*[http://www.ddivers.com/ '''Discovery'''], Coastal Rd Bgy. 5, Coron Palawan (at Coron Town). :*[http://divescover.com/dive-center/dive-calamianes/2780 '''Dive Calamianes''']{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}: Located between the Discovery Bar and downtown. :*[http://www.rocksteadydivecenter.com ''' Rocksteady Dive Center''']: Located near the hospital. * '''Island hopping''': Busuanga is more or less a "miniature version" of Palawan with smaller islands in close range. To explore the archipelago, you can join a group tour booked through local agencies or online, or hire a private boat for a custom itinerary. For route options, schedules, and local contacts, check [https://coron-island-hopping.com/ Coron-Island-Hopping] or ask your accommodation host for advice. Please note that camping is now restricted in most areas to protect the environment, though it remains possible on some western islands; always verify current regulations with your boat operator before planning an overnight stay. * '''Mt. Tapyas''' hike: If you are staying in Coron Town, you can walk to the foot of Mt. Tapyas, where there is a basketball court, from the main market square in 10 minutes; alternately, you can go by tricycle for {{PHP|10}} (July 2011). The hike to the top will probably take the average healthy 30-year-old 30 to 40 minutes to complete. The view is worth it at any time of day, but especially at sunset. Most people will definitely prefer to go up mornings or evenings, when it is cooler. * '''Siete Pecados''' is popularized by the shoot of a local television show of a mermaid love story. Experience swimming in an aquarium, beautiful corals and a great variety of fishes. There is a caretaker who will collect {{PHP|100}} from tourists. Recommended time to snorkel is around 1PM-2PM. Current can be strong in the morning. This is one of the best sites to snorkel in Coron. Myth suggests that seven kids swam from the main island to escape it and follow their parents. They all drowned and the place where they drowned is where the islands are now present. * Other activities can be arranged for instance at Discovery Bar: :* '''Horseback riding''' :* '''Mountain bike tours''' :* '''Jungle treks''' * '''Maquinit hot spring''': Beautiful place to hang out in the evening. It will take you 20 to 25 minutes from the Coron town market, and cost you {{PHP|200-300}} depending on the number of passengers. The entrance fee is {{PHP|200}} for foreigners (Feb 2018), and {{PHP|75}} for Filipinos (Aug 2011). Filipinos must show an ID. An armed guard checks everyone's bags and backpacks. The hot springs are comprised of three areas; the two smaller circular areas are warmest, and the third larger area is less warm. By Japanese onsen standards, however, the water is not at all "hot" anywhere. In the back of the pool, there is a beautiful view of the adjoining bay. * {{do | name=Fishing | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-08 | content=Fishing is very good. You can find lots of fish at there, for example tuna. Local men always go fishing there. You can buy simple equipment to fish there, where it is very cheap. }} * {{do | name=Ocam Ocam Beach | alt= | url=https://ocam-ocam.com/ | email= | address=west | lat= | long= | directions=follow the south coast highway to New-Busuanga and then turn left | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-10-09 | content=A beautiful beach with a little village and beach cottages to rent. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== Beyond options in [[Coron]], there are a handful of resorts on nearby islands: Dive link, Coral Bay, Club Paradise and the most recent Rio y Mar. * {{sleep | name=Discovery Resort | alt= | url=http://www.ddivers.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Perhaps the only place near Coron where you will be free from the calls of roosters and karaoke. On Decanituan Island (Discovery Island) about a 10-minute boat ride from Coron. A little isolated and very beautiful. }} * {{sleep | name=Busuanga Island Paradise | alt= | url=http://www.busuangaislandparadise.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A quiet resort located in a forest 10 minutes from Coron town. Private property of 21 hectares with a small river cutting through it - relaxing. }} * {{sleep | name=Puerto Del Sol Resort @ Discovery Dive Center | alt= | url=http://www.puertodelsolresort.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Located in Puerto Del Sol Bay, Coron, on the West Coast of Busuanga Island, Northern Palawan, Philippines. 2 minutes from the huge wreck of the Japanese tanker the "Okikawa Maru" at the entrance to our Bay, 5 minutes from the Japanese warship the "Akitsushima", and 8 minutes from the many other Historic Shipwrecks of the large Japanese Supply Fleet sunk in 1944. You may talk to Angelica at Discovery Bar (where the main office is) at Coron Town or give her a call through +63 9209012414 and she will help you to get into the resort. }} ==Go next== The usual place to go after Busuanga is [[El Nido]]. {{outlinecity}} {{geo|12.1667|119.9500|zoom=11}} {{IsPartOf|Calamian Islands}} daz4ge6u2nv46d5yr2sqee9h9ecj76g 5288900 5288894 2026-06-06T16:31:21Z Ikan Kekek 36420 That link didn't look official, so deleted per [[WV:What not to link to]], and [[WV:Don't tout]] may also be relevant. 5288900 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mena-asia_default_banner.jpg}} [[File:Busuanga.JPG|thumb|500px|Northern Busuanga]] '''Busuanga''' is the largest Island of the [[Calamian archipelago]] in the northern part of [[Palawan]] province in the [[Philippines]]. Nice beaches, gentle landscape, good hiking and great diving make the island a good holiday destination. Wreck diving is the main attraction and many Japanese ships wait patiently for you under the sea. Nearby Coron Island has the beautiful Kayangan and Barracuda lakes the latter is known for its thermoclines and fabled gigantic barracudas. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}} {{mapshape}} Busuanga is the closest point in Palawan from Manila and is quite accessible from Manila. ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Francisco B. Reyes Airport | alt={{IATA|USU}} | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.121389 | long=120.1 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Francisco B. Reyes Airport | image=Francisco B Reyes Airport.jpg | wikidata=Q3500743 | content=serves the general area of Busuanga, you can fly into Busuanga with [http://www.cebupacificair.com/ Cebu Pacific], or Philippines Airlines. The flight from Manila takes one hour. The trip from the airport to the town of Coron will take about 40 to 50 minutes. }} ===By boat=== The '''2GO''' ferry stops in [[Coron]] on its way to Puerto Princesa. Leaves [[Manila]] on Friday afternoon and arrives in Coron early Saturday morning. Heads back to Manila on Sunday night. Wait until a couple of days before it departs to get cheaper tickets. Don't wait too long, though. There is also a ship from [[El Nido]] to Coron town. The trip takes at least 6 hours. The ship is a small crab ship. You will feel uncomfortable, if the winds are heavy. ==Get around== * '''Jeepney''' is one option for tourists from the airport. Vans carrying 6 to 8 people cost about {{PHP|150}} per person. Once in [[Coron]], you can rent another transportation mean. ==See== * The largest town on the Island is '''[[Coron]]'''. * {{see | name=Calauit Game Preserve and Wildlife Sanctuary | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calauit Island | lat= | long= | directions=on the north side of Busuanga | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=This reserve created by Presidential decree in 1976 houses various African species (giraffes included...) wandering in the wild. }} ==Do== * '''Wreck diving''' is extremely popular around Busuanga. Several Japanese World War II ships lay in good conditions in shallow water (the Skeleton Wreck is even visible for snorkellers), making for excellent dives even for amateur divers. :*[http://www.seadiveresort.com ''' Sea Dive Resort'''] {{dead link|December 2020}}: Located in the heart of Coron town. Seadive is the only PADI authorized dive shop in Coron. Seadive also owns the only recompression chamber in Palawan and dives with the lowest diver to dive master ratio in Coron. :*[http://corondivers.com.ph/ '''Coron Divers''']{{Dead link|date=August 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}: The only Dive Center owned by a Filipino, Arni is the big boss and his sons are divemasters. Everything makes you feel in a Filipino family (even more if you stay at Chinette's lodge, 10 m away in front of Coron Divers). :*[http://www.ddivers.com/ '''Discovery'''], Coastal Rd Bgy. 5, Coron Palawan (at Coron Town). :*[http://divescover.com/dive-center/dive-calamianes/2780 '''Dive Calamianes''']{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}: Located between the Discovery Bar and downtown. :*[http://www.rocksteadydivecenter.com ''' Rocksteady Dive Center''']: Located near the hospital. * '''Island hopping''': Busuanga is more or less a "miniature version" of Palawan with smaller islands in close range. Camping is restricted in most areas as of 2026 to protect the environment, though it remains possible on some western islands; always verify current regulations with your boat operator before planning an overnight stay. * '''Mt. Tapyas''' hike: If you are staying in Coron Town, you can walk to the foot of Mt. Tapyas, where there is a basketball court, from the main market square in 10 minutes; alternately, you can go by tricycle for {{PHP|10}} (July 2011). The hike to the top will probably take the average healthy 30-year-old 30 to 40 minutes to complete. The view is worth it at any time of day, but especially at sunset. Most people will definitely prefer to go up mornings or evenings, when it is cooler. * '''Siete Pecados''' is popularized by the shoot of a local television show of a mermaid love story. Experience swimming in an aquarium, beautiful corals and a great variety of fishes. There is a caretaker who will collect {{PHP|100}} from tourists. Recommended time to snorkel is around 1PM-2PM. Current can be strong in the morning. This is one of the best sites to snorkel in Coron. Myth suggests that seven kids swam from the main island to escape it and follow their parents. They all drowned and the place where they drowned is where the islands are now present. * Other activities can be arranged for instance at Discovery Bar: :* '''Horseback riding''' :* '''Mountain bike tours''' :* '''Jungle treks''' * '''Maquinit hot spring''': Beautiful place to hang out in the evening. It will take you 20 to 25 minutes from the Coron town market, and cost you {{PHP|200-300}} depending on the number of passengers. The entrance fee is {{PHP|200}} for foreigners (Feb 2018), and {{PHP|75}} for Filipinos (Aug 2011). Filipinos must show an ID. An armed guard checks everyone's bags and backpacks. The hot springs are comprised of three areas; the two smaller circular areas are warmest, and the third larger area is less warm. By Japanese onsen standards, however, the water is not at all "hot" anywhere. In the back of the pool, there is a beautiful view of the adjoining bay. * {{do | name=Fishing | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-08 | content=Fishing is very good. You can find lots of fish at there, for example tuna. Local men always go fishing there. You can buy simple equipment to fish there, where it is very cheap. }} * {{do | name=Ocam Ocam Beach | alt= | url=https://ocam-ocam.com/ | email= | address=west | lat= | long= | directions=follow the south coast highway to New-Busuanga and then turn left | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-10-09 | content=A beautiful beach with a little village and beach cottages to rent. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== Beyond options in [[Coron]], there are a handful of resorts on nearby islands: Dive link, Coral Bay, Club Paradise and the most recent Rio y Mar. * {{sleep | name=Discovery Resort | alt= | url=http://www.ddivers.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Perhaps the only place near Coron where you will be free from the calls of roosters and karaoke. On Decanituan Island (Discovery Island) about a 10-minute boat ride from Coron. A little isolated and very beautiful. }} * {{sleep | name=Busuanga Island Paradise | alt= | url=http://www.busuangaislandparadise.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A quiet resort located in a forest 10 minutes from Coron town. Private property of 21 hectares with a small river cutting through it - relaxing. }} * {{sleep | name=Puerto Del Sol Resort @ Discovery Dive Center | alt= | url=http://www.puertodelsolresort.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Located in Puerto Del Sol Bay, Coron, on the West Coast of Busuanga Island, Northern Palawan, Philippines. 2 minutes from the huge wreck of the Japanese tanker the "Okikawa Maru" at the entrance to our Bay, 5 minutes from the Japanese warship the "Akitsushima", and 8 minutes from the many other Historic Shipwrecks of the large Japanese Supply Fleet sunk in 1944. You may talk to Angelica at Discovery Bar (where the main office is) at Coron Town or give her a call through +63 9209012414 and she will help you to get into the resort. }} ==Go next== The usual place to go after Busuanga is [[El Nido]]. {{outlinecity}} {{geo|12.1667|119.9500|zoom=11}} {{IsPartOf|Calamian Islands}} 7gqfw0zh6jujmmh5pub2q4rk90a933y 0 5279 5288886 5288832 2026-06-06T15:41:45Z Ikan Kekek 36420 5288886 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Aland banner Coastal panorama.jpg}} {{confused|[[Öland]], a Swedish island in the southern Baltic Sea}} The Åland Islands in the Baltic Sea are known for their extensive maritime history, relatively warm and sunny weather compared to the rest of the region, and popular outdoor activities. Although the islands are part of Finland, they form a self-governing autonomous territory. The islands' approximately 30,000 inhabitants (2021) mostly speak a local dialect of Swedish. ==Municipalities== [[File:Åland Wikivoyage map.png|thumb|Åland, in the Baltic Sea between Sweden and Finland]] [[File:Visit Åland (11945959246).jpg|thumb|Aerial view of boathouses in Eckerö]] Åland is divided into 15 municipalities and one city, Mariehamn. Most municipalities consist of an island group and the surrounding archipelago. A few are located on ''Fasta Åland'' ("mainland Åland"), a group of larger islands connected by bridges. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mariehamn]]|wikidata=Q48329}} (Finnish: ''Maarianhamina'') – the capital of Åland Reachable from Mariehamn without a ferry: * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Eckerö]]|wikidata=Q51909}} – ferry port in the west, with the historic post and customs house * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Finström]]|wikidata=Q51914}} – includes Godby, Åland's second-largest settlement after Mariehamn * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Geta]]|wikidata=Q134675}} – known for its hills, gorges and caves * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Hammarland]]|wikidata=Q134685}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Jomala]]|wikidata=Q176178}} – location of Mariehamn Airport and Åland's oldest church * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lemland]]|wikidata=Q176186}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lumparland]]|wikidata=Q176191}} – site of Långnäs Harbour, an important transport hub * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Saltvik]]|wikidata=Q176196}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sund]]|wikidata=Q176201}} – location of Kastelholm Castle and the Bomarsund fortifications Archipelago municipalities: * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Brändö]]|wikidata=Q179706}} – bordering the northern part of the Archipelago Sea in Finland Proper * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Föglö]]|wikidata=Q179722}} – known for fishing and maritime traditions * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kumlinge]]|wikidata=Q179726}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kökar]]|wikidata=Q179730}} – island municipality in the southeast, on a historic shipping route; monastery ruins * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sottunga]]|wikidata=Q179739}} – Finland's smallest municipality, with about 100 inhabitants * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Vårdö]]|wikidata=Q179749}} – connected to mainland Åland by road ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[https://www.kobbaklintarsvanner.ax/en Kobba Klintar] | lat=60.02962 | long=19.88219 | wikidata=Q10546852}} — island with an old pilots station. Transfer boat from Pommern ship to the island in the summers. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=Lågskär|wikidata=Q10572499}} — [[Lighthouses|lighthouse island]] out in the Baltic Sea, popular among ornithologists. Tours from [[Mariehamn]]. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=Märket|wikidata=Q163395}} — lighthouse island in the Sea of Åland, on the border to Sweden. Tours from [[Eckerö]]. ==Understand== {{NordicCountries}} {{quickbar|location=LocationAland.png|electricity=#Q33|driving side=#Q33}} The Åland Islands (pronounced ohland) are an autonomous region of [[Finland]]. They gained extensive autonomy under a League of Nations decision in 1921, which settled a dispute between Sweden and Finland. Åland has its own parliament. Swedish is the sole official language, and Finnish is less widely spoken, especially outside [[Mariehamn]]. [[File:View of Mariehamn, 2022.jpg|thumbnail|[[Mariehamn]], the capital of Åland]] The archipelago consists of about 80 inhabited islands and roughly 6,000 smaller islands and skerries. Most residents live on the main islands, known as ''Fasta Åland'', which include the capital [[Mariehamn]]. The main islands are connected by bridges or cable ferry. In local usage, "the archipelago" refers only to the more remote islands beyond ''Fasta Åland''. Outside Mariehamn, what appears to be a town on the map may actually be a village of only a few buildings at a crossroads. Services can be limited, especially away from the main islands. In winter, many guesthouses, cottage villages and attractions are closed, and opportunities for winter sports are limited. Seafaring has long shaped Åland's economy and identity. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries the islands had an extensive fleet of ships compared to the population, and many captain's and shipowner's mansions from that period remain. As steamships replaced sailing vessels elsewhere, Åland shipowners continued operating large sailing fleets. The best-known shipowner, Gustaf Erikson, owned a majority of the world's remaining ocean-going sailing ships in the 1930s. [[File:Barkskeppet Mariehamn.jpg|thumb|The barque ''Mariehamn'', bought in 1880, was the first ship from Åland to circumnavigate the globe.]] Åland has been demilitarized since the Crimean War. Finland retained this status after independence. Ålanders are exempt from Finland's mandatory military service, and Åland promotes itself internationally as the "Islands of Peace". When Finland joined the European Union in 1995, Åland retained its exemption from the EU VAT area. This special status helps support the islands' ferry industry. Two of the companies involved in this trade, Viking Line and Eckerö Line, are based in Åland. Renewable energy plays an important role in Åland. Wind power is widespread on the islands, and solar energy is increasingly common. ==Talk== The islands are officially monolingually '''[[Swedish phrasebook|Swedish]]'''. [[Finnish phrasebook|Finnish]] is taught in schools as an optional subject. Tourism is important, and many visitors come from mainland Finland, so staff in the tourism industry often speak at least some Finnish. English is widely spoken, including by many older residents, and is usually the best alternative if you do not speak Swedish. Signs are sometimes bilingual in Swedish and English or Swedish and Finnish. ==Get in== Åland is reached primarily by ferry, with frequent services from mainland Finland and Sweden and scheduled flights from Helsinki, Turku and Stockholm. Most visitors arrive at [[Mariehamn]] or ''Långnäs''. Ferries between Stockholm and Finland or Tallinn stop at Åland to maintain duty-free sales. Åland is part of the [[Travelling around the Schengen Area|Schengen Area]], but not the [[European Union|EU]] VAT area. As Åland has a special status within the [[European Union|EU]], customs formalities may apply even when travelling within the Schengen Area. Pets arriving from outside Finland need to satisfy the treatment and documentation requirements. [[File:Ferries in Mariehamn harbor.jpg|thumb|Just choose your ferry! Port of Mariehamn in midday.]] === Ferries from Finland === * '''Turku–Mariehamn/Långnäs''' – Viking Line and Tallink Silja sail from [[Turku]] to Mariehamn and Långnäs. Local bus route 1 serves the ferry terminals. Coaches and trains from Helsinki and Tampere connect with the ferries. Services run every morning and evening. * '''Naantali–Långnäs''' – Finnlines sails between [[Naantali]] and Långnäs. Day sailings accept foot passengers outside the summer season. Night sailings may require passengers to travel with a vehicle. * '''Helsinki–Mariehamn''' – Viking Line and Tallink Silja sail from [[Helsinki]] to Mariehamn. The terminals are near Market Square on opposite sides of the bay. Services depart in the afternoon and arrive in Mariehamn overnight. === Ferries from Sweden === * '''Stockholm–Mariehamn/Långnäs''' – The main ferry route between Sweden and Åland, with multiple daily departures. Viking Line and Tallink Silja sail from [[Stockholm]] to Mariehamn and Långnäs, with most sailings continuing to Turku, Helsinki or Tallinn. Tallink Silja generally departs in the afternoon, while Viking Line typically offers morning, afternoon and evening departures. Tallink Silja's terminal is at Värtahamnen, served by the Gärdet metro station. Viking Line's terminal is at Stadsgården. * '''Grisslehamn–Eckerö''' – The shortest ferry crossing between Sweden and Åland. Eckerölinjen sails three times daily between Grisslehamn ([[Norrtälje]]) and [[Eckerö]]. The crossing takes about two hours. Bus route 1 connects Eckerö with Mariehamn. Grisslehamn can be reached by SL bus via Norrtälje or by Eckerölinjen's dedicated coaches from [[Stockholm]] (Cityterminalen) and [[Uppsala]]. * '''Kapellskär–Långnäs''' – A quieter alternative to the large cruise ferries. Finnlines sails between Kapellskär ([[Norrtälje]]) and Långnäs. Foot passengers are accepted on day sailings (check current conditions, especially in summer). Night sailings generally require passengers to travel with a vehicle. Kapellskär can be reached by bus from Stockholm via Norrtälje. * '''Kapellskär–Långnäs''' – An alternative route from the Stockholm region to Åland via Kapellskär. Tallink Silja sails between Kapellskär ([[Norrtälje]]) and Långnäs. Kapellskär can be reached by bus from Stockholm via Norrtälje. In severe weather or ice conditions, ferries may occasionally omit their scheduled call at Åland or use a different Åland port. Affected passengers are normally provided with alternative arrangements. === Archipelago ferries === [[File:Sottunga Ejdern.jpg|thumb|The archipelago ferry ''Ejdern'' at Sottunga, with a freighter in the background]] Ålandstrafiken ferries are free for foot passengers. Vehicle fares can be expensive, particularly for travellers who do not spend at least one night in the archipelago. On many routes, motorists must spend a night in the archipelago to avoid a through fare (the higher fare charged for travelling directly across the route network). Vehicle fares for large vehicles, motorhomes, caravans and trailers can be substantial. Consecutive ferry bookings on some routes may require an overnight stay. * '''Vuosnainen–Åva''' – Ålandstrafiken's ''Norra linjen'' (Northern Line) links Vuosnainen (Swedish: Osnäs) in [[Kustavi]] with Åva in [[Brändö]]. Via Torsholma and Hummelvik in [[Vårdö]], travellers can continue to mainland Åland. Vuosnainen can be reached from Turku by road and seasonal public transport. * '''Galtby–Kökar''' – Ålandstrafiken's ''Södra linjen'' (Southern Line) runs between Galtby in [[Korpo]] and [[Kökar]]. Via [[Sottunga]] and [[Föglö]], travellers can continue to Långnäs. Bus services link Turku with Galtby. * '''Houtskär/Iniö–Torsholma''' – Ferries run from [[Houtskär]] (Näsby or Roslax) and [[Iniö]] (Norrby or Kannvik) to Torsholma in [[Brändö]] via several smaller islands. Services operate a few times each week and must be booked no later than the previous day. Travel is free for foot passengers. Bus services link Turku with Näsby, and Kannvik can be reached from Kustavi and, in summer, from Houtskär (see [[Archipelago Trail]]). Parking is available at major ferry terminals for travellers continuing on foot, by bicycle or by bus. Bus routes 4 and 5 connect Hummelvik and Långnäs with Mariehamn. [[File:Sottunga view.jpg|thumb|Harbour and village scenery in [[Sottunga]].]] ===By plane=== * '''Mariehamn Airport''' is Åland's only airport with scheduled service. There are daily flights from [[Helsinki Vantaa Airport]], [[Turku]] and [[Stockholm Arlanda Airport]]. * '''Kumlinge airstrip''' in the archipelago municipality of [[Kumlinge]] can be used for [[General aviation|private aircraft]]. ===By bike=== Most cruise ferries charge an additional fee for bicycles. Cyclists usually board via the vehicle deck and should secure their bikes during the crossing. Ålandstrafiken ferries generally carry bicycles. Bicycle transport on archipelago routes is inexpensive, although through journeys to mainland Åland without an overnight stay are more expensive. Several services between Houtskär, Iniö and Brändö can also carry bicycles. Advance booking is usually required. ===By small craft=== {{see also|Boating on the Baltic Sea|Boating in Finland|Archipelago Sea|Cruising on small craft}} In favourable weather, any seaworthy boat can cross the Sea of Åland from Sweden. From Finland there is only a short open-water crossing (Skiftet) between the archipelagos. From [[Gotland]], an overnight passage is usually required. If you are arriving from a [[Travelling around the Schengen Area|Schengen]] country, you normally do not need to use customs routes or report to border control unless customs clearance is required. Arrivals from non-Schengen countries must comply with normal immigration and customs procedures. Contact the border authorities in advance if clearance is needed. Typical first ports include [[Eckerö]] and [[Mariehamn]]. From Finland, common approach ports include [[Kökar]], [[Föglö]], [[Sottunga]] and [[Brändö]]. == Get around == {{mapframe|zoom=8}} {{mapshape}} === By bike === Cycling is a popular way to explore Åland. Many roads have cycle paths, and some ferries carry only cyclists and pedestrians. Ferry bookings may be necessary in peak season. === By car === Roads are good, distances are short and traffic is light, even in Mariehamn. Car-rental options are limited, so booking in advance is advisable. Fuel is available throughout the islands. The ferries to the archipelago are not free, so check fares and booking arrangements in advance. Traffic rules are similar to those in Finland and Sweden, except that parking on the left side of a street is prohibited. [[File:Huvudväg 3 (Åland).jpg|thumb|Typical highway on Åland]] === By bus === * {{listing | name=Ålandstrafiken | url=https://www.alandstrafiken.ax | price=€2.50 (2024) | lastedit=2024-08-05 | content=Bus services connect most parts of the main islands, and Google Maps includes most routes. A ticket is valid for up to two hours. }} * {{listing | name=Kommunaltrafiken | price=free | lastedit=2024-08-05 | content=Scheduled taxis connect ferry harbours with local destinations in most archipelago municipalities. Travel along the main road is free; journeys beyond it cost a small fee. Reservations are usually required the day before. }} === By taxi === Taxis can be booked through [https://alandstaxi.ax Ålands Taxi]. === By boat === {{see also|Boating in Finland}} Boats provide access to many of the islands. There are many guest harbours, and anchoring is often possible away from settlements. You can charter a [[Cruising in small craft|boat]] or hire a [[Sea kayaking|sea kayak]]. Taxi boats may also offer fishing trips and guided excursions. * {{go | name=Fiskelyckan | url=https://fiskelyckan.ax/english-fiskelyckan/ | email=bo-erik.westberg@hotmail.com | directions=Mariehamn | phone=+358 45-73-420-538 }} * {{go | name=Shipland | url=https://www.shipland.ax | email=vilhelm.holmberg@aland.net | address=Torggatan 47 | directions=Mariehamn | phone=+358 40-504-3601 }} === Archipelago ferries === The archipelago ferries are operated by [https://www.alandstrafiken.ax Ålandstrafiken]. Routes serve the archipelago throughout Åland. Foot passengers travel free of charge, while vehicle passengers must book and pay for most longer crossings. Vehicle bookings are recommended well in advance in summer, especially around Midsummer. Vehicle fares are much lower for journeys that include a stop in the archipelago than for direct transit. In 2024, a direct crossing cost about €122 for a car, compared with about €38 when including an overnight stop. Parking is available at Hummelvik, Långnäs and Svinö. [[Vårdö]] is connected to mainland Åland by a free cable ferry. ==See== [[File:Kastellholm castle in December 1.JPG|thumbnail|Kastelholm Castle]] Most sights outside Mariehamn have limited opening hours outside the summer season. '''Pommern''' and the '''Åland Maritime Museum''', at the West Harbour of [[Mariehamn]], are Åland's most visited attractions. The four-masted ''Pommern'' recalls Åland's maritime heyday. '''Kastelholm Castle''' in [[Sund]] is one of Finland's few medieval castles, dating from the 1380s. Nearby, the '''Jan Karlsgården Open Air Museum''' preserves a late-19th-century farm assembled from traditional buildings from across Åland. '''Vita Björn''', Åland's prison until 1975, is now a museum illustrating prison life from the 18th to the 20th century. '''Bomarsund Fortress''' is the ruin of a vast Russian fortress destroyed during the Crimean War in 1854. In [[Eckerö]], the '''Åland Hunting and Fishing Museum''' explores traditional life in the islands' fishing villages and displays historic hunting and fishing equipment. The '''Eckerö Mail and Customs House''', built in 1828, is one of Åland's most notable buildings from the Russian period. '''Märket Lighthouse''' stands on a tiny island divided between Sweden and Finland. Boat trips are available from Eckerö in good weather. The Franciscan '''monastery ruins''' near [[Kökar]] are among Åland's most important medieval sites. The observation tower in [[Geta]] offers views across mainland Åland and the Bothnian Sea. '''Orrdalsklint''' in [[Saltvik]] is Åland's highest point (129 m), with an observation tower and wide views across the archipelago. ==Do== [[File:Cykling Åland.jpg|thumb|A cycling route on Åland]] Åland is well suited to outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, swimming, and exploring its peaceful countryside. The [[Right to access in the Nordic countries|right to access]] is more limited than in mainland Finland or Sweden because the small islands are more vulnerable to environmental wear. If you wish to camp outside designated campsites, ask for permission from the landowner. In nature reserves, be especially careful to stay on marked trails. * '''Fishing''' *: Fishing regulations differ from those in mainland Finland. In most areas, fishing requires a permit from the owner of the waters. Many local businesses arrange fishing trips or rent boats and equipment, and can usually arrange permits and advise on suitable fishing areas. Some fishing far from privately owned islands is free for Nordic residents. * '''Postvägen (Postal Route)''' *: The historic Postal Route dates from the 17th century and runs 65 km across Åland, from the Mail House in [[Eckerö]] to Brändöby village in [[Brändö]]. Marked by postal-horn signs, it is particularly popular for cycling. Free information about the route's history is available in Kastelholm, next to Jan Karlsgården. * '''Lighthouse excursions''' *: Several offshore lighthouses can be visited on guided summer excursions: *:* {{marker|type=see|name=Lågskär lighthouse|lat=59.8410|long=19.9120}} *:* {{marker|type=see|name=Sälskär lighthouse|lat=60.4115|long=19.5925}} *:* {{marker|type=see|name=Märket lighthouse|lat=60.3010|long=19.1314}} *: The [https://www.alandsfagelskyddsforening.com Åland Birdwatching Society] arranges tours to Lågskär and Sälskär. Skarpnåtö Turistanläggning in [[Hammarland]] arranges tours to Sälskär, while tours to Märket are arranged by the guest harbour in [[Eckerö]]. * '''Käringsunds Viltsafari''' *: A wildlife safari park in [[Eckerö]]. == Buy == {{Template:Exchange rate euros}} [[File:Aland post 1987 Haahka Fågelserie Ejder.jpg|thumb|upright|Åland stamp]] The official currency is the euro (€). Swedish kronor (SEK) are often accepted during the summer season, but exchange rates are usually unfavourable. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. Prices are generally higher than in mainland Finland and Sweden, with many goods costing 10–50% more. Åland is known for its apples and apple products, including juice, cider and liqueurs. Local beers are also available. Souvenir shopping is limited. Typical souvenirs can be found in central Mariehamn, museums and some larger shops. Local handicrafts are sold in some galleries and shops, including SALT by Mariehamn's eastern harbour. Åland issues its own stamps, which are popular with collectors and available at post offices throughout the islands. Finnish stamps are not valid. ==Eat== [[File:Ålandspannkaka.jpg|thumbnail|Åland pancake with stewed plums and whipped cream]] {{seealso|Nordic cuisine}} Some food items to look for: * '''Smoked flounder with potato salad''' and fish dishes in general. * '''Svartbröd''' (blackbread); as the name implies the bread is almost black. It is a round and quite flat rye bread. Its most characteristic feature is the taste. Blackbread is sweet. The sweetness originates from the treacle that is added to the dough and from the manner in which the bread is baked in the oven (baking blackbread is a time-consuming procedure). Stored cool, the bread stays good for weeks, even months. It was originally used (in a less sweet version) on long fishing, hunting or seafaring expeditions. * '''Åland's pancake''' (''ålandspannkaka'') is a traditional and delicious Ålandic dessert. The pancake is made from semolina porridge, flavoured with cardamom and sometimes vanilla, and is served with stewed plums (usually raspberry jam is available as an alternative) and whipped cream. It is available in somewhat every café. *'''Cheese''' from the local [https://www.aca.ax/ ÅCA] dairy is of high quality. ''Kastelholm'' cheese is particularly recommended, and works well with blackbread. Its roots can be traced back to the 16th century. * '''[https://www.taffel.fi Taffel Crisps]''' are available in any store, both in Åland and in mainland Finland. Their potato crisps are manufactured in Åland from local potatoes. The outlet shop is by the factory in [[Saltvik]]. * '''[http://www.alandssenap.ax Ålands Senap]''' in Godby produce mustard, ketchup, salad dressings etc. Their products are widely available in grocery stores. Most restaurants are in Mariehamn. Do not expect to find fast food outlets elsewhere on the islands. Some restaurants have limited hours of service and some are not open every day. Guest houses can usually arrange dinner, but you might have to book it beforehand. ==Drink== '''Brewery Stallhagen''' near [[Finström]] produces beer, offers guided tours and operates a pub. Its beers are widely available throughout Åland. '''Åland Distillery''' near [[Sund]] produces spirits and gin using fruit grown at a local vineyard. '''Peders Aplagård''' in [[Kökar]] produces cider. As elsewhere in Finland, drinks with more than 5.5% alcohol are sold mainly through [https://www.alko.fi/en/ Alko], producers, bars and restaurants. ==Sleep== Hotels are concentrated in Mariehamn. Elsewhere, accommodation is mainly in guesthouses, cottages and campsites. Many rural accommodation providers also arrange activities such as fishing trips, wildlife watching and local guided tours. Wild camping is more restricted on Åland than in most of Finland. Overnight camping outside designated campsites is generally limited to one night, and asking the landowner's permission is recommended. Campsites are available on the main islands and on several smaller islands, including Vårdö and Kökar. Overnight camping is prohibited in nature reserves. ==Respect== [[File:Ålands lagting.jpg|thumb|The Parliament of Åland, in Mariehamn]] Åland has a distinct identity shaped by its autonomy and Swedish-speaking culture. Many residents identify primarily as Ålanders (Swedish: ''ålänning'') is generally appreciated. Don't call them Finns. ==Connect== Åland uses Finland's country code (+358) for telephone services. For landline phones, the area code 18. Mobile users from mainland Finland may need to enable roaming, as Elisa and DNA don't have their own networks on the islands. EU roaming generally works as elsewhere in the EU, subject to your provider's terms. Åland has its own top-level domain (.ax), used by many local organisations. The islands also have a separate postal service. Finnish stamps are not valid on mail posted from Åland. ==Stay safe== Crime is rare and Åland is generally a safe destination.<!-- despite the statistics, which are dominated by crime on the cruise ferries --> Ticks are common and can carry borreliosis (Lyme disease) and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). Check your body for ticks after spending time in vegetation, and consider TBE vaccination if you expect significant exposure. Normal precautions apply when boating or travelling on sea ice. At shores close to the cruise ferry routes, the water will quickly rise when the ferry approaches, and then withdraw like before a tsunami – which will follow. Stay clear. Alcohol-related incidents occur on the cruise ferries, including sexual harassment. Do not go alone with strangers to private areas unless you are sure you can trust them (and do report any serious incidents, immediately if you can, they will be taken care of). The hospital in Mariehamn provides 24-hour emergency care. Medical services elsewhere are limited. Patients requiring advanced critical care may be transferred to hospitals in Turku or Uppsala by helicopter. ==Cope== === Religion === [[File:Jomala Church 2009-07-11.jpg|thumb|St. Olof's Church in [[Jomala]], Åland's oldest church]] Most Ålanders belong to the [https://evl.fi/en/ Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland] (see [[Finland#Religion]]), although membership has declined, from 95% in 1990 to 70% in 2020. === Newspapers === Åland's two main newspapers are ''[https://www.alandstidningen.ax Ålandstidningen]'' and ''[https://www.nyan.ax Nya Åland]'', founded in 1891 and 1981, respectively. === Radio === The county administration operates the public-service station [https://alandsradio.ax/ Ålands Radio], which broadcasts local news and other programming in Swedish. The national Yle can also be heard. Several commercial radio stations are also available, including [https://www.steelfm.ax/ Steel FM], Soft FM, Radio Harmonica and [https://www.viaplayradio.se/rixfm/ RIX FM]. ==Go next== * [[Archipelago Sea]], the adjacent archipelago in Finland Proper. * [[Stockholm]], the capital city of Sweden * [[Turku]], the oldest city of Finland {{IsPartOf|Finland}} {{usableregion}} {{geo|60.218|20.168|scale=1500000|zoom=9|precision=2}} {{DEFAULTSORT:Aland}} dui9nwji3a4on63wvnaw8wwgo1e7jzc 0 5614 5288913 5282022 2026-06-06T17:12:32Z Anyone150 1516949 /* See also */ 5288913 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Antelope Valley banner.jpg|caption=California Poppy Preserve in the Antelope Valley}} One of the most diverse states in the [[United States of America|Union]], '''California''' has a culture ranging from the easygoing surf spots on the beaches of [[Southern California]] to the glamor of [[Hollywood]], and the counterculture and thriving businesses of the [[Bay Area]]. The state, which is on the [[West Coast (United States)|west coast of the U.S.]], also varies greatly in natural beauty, from redwood forests on the [[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] to the ski resorts of the rugged [[Sierra Nevada]] mountains and the harsh desert of [[Death Valley]]. The largest state in the U.S. by population and the third largest by area, California boasts world-famous attractions and sights: [[Disneyland]], the [[Golden Gate Bridge]], the [[Napa Valley]] wine country, and the tallest mountain in the [[United States of America#Geography|contiguous United States]], [[Mount Whitney]]. Granted statehood in 1850 following the California Gold Rush, it bears the nickname "the '''Golden State'''", and the sites of the former goldfields are known as the [[Gold Country]]. ==Regions== California is geographically varied, ranging from warm beaches to snowy mountains to fertile farmland to extreme desert. In the middle of the state is the farmland of the Central Valley, which provides produce to the whole country. The conventional wisdom is that there is a huge difference—and also rivalry—between the Southern California area around Los Angeles (or as Californians often say, “LA”) and Northern California centered around the San Francisco Bay Area. There is also a cultural clash between the large liberal coastal cities, and more conservative parts of the state such as Orange County, the Central Valley, and the far northeast part of the state. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Ca-regions.png | regionmapsize=480px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] | region1color=#b2b24d | region1description=Home to the world's tallest trees, the coast redwoods, as well as rugged coastlines and remote nature adventures. | region2name=[[Shasta Cascades]] | region2color=#c375a0 | region2description=Lakes and mountains off the beaten path in the state's northeast corner. | region3name=[[Sacramento Valley]] | region3color=#5bc7c0 | region3description=Home of [[Sacramento]], the state capital, and the urban areas around the city. | region4name=[[Gold Country]] | region4color=#d2d20d | region4description=Historic foothills leading east to the Sierras; the 1848 discovery of gold in this region brought many Americans to California and helped California become a state less than five years after the territory had been acquired. | region5name=[[Sierra Nevada]] | region5color=#5ea54a | region5description=California's alpine and skiing region, including [[Yosemite National Park]] and [[Lake Tahoe]]. | region6name=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]] | region6color=#d06666 | region6description=Home to the cities of [[San Francisco]], [[Oakland]], and [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]], as well as the technology-centered [[Silicon Valley]] and sophisticated [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. | region7name=[[San Joaquin Valley]] | region7color=#a0a0c0 | region7description=Breadbasket of California and home to a large percentage of America's fruit and vegetable supply. | region8name=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] | region8color=#5fb388 | region8description=An isolated stretch of land that features cool mountains and a rugged coastline. | region9name=[[Southern California]] | region9color=#ac663d | region9description=Home to the metropolis of [[Los Angeles]], as well as [[San Diego]], [[Disneyland]], [[Hollywood]], and miles of famous beaches. | region10name=[[Desert (California)|Desert]] | region10color=#d5a90b | region10description=Palm trees, Joshua trees, blazing sun, ghost towns and quirky resorts. Miles of [[Route 66]]. Home of [[Death Valley National Park|Death Valley]] and [[Joshua Tree National Park]]s. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b2b24d|title=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]]|wikidata=Q156186,Q109651,Q108087,Q156361}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c375a0|title=[[Shasta Cascades]]|wikidata=Q156374,Q156188,Q156350,Q109695,Q156340,Q109705,Q156342,Q156181}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5bc7c0|title=[[Sacramento Valley]]|wikidata=Q271601,Q271609,Q156377,Q196014,Q109709,Q108131}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d2d20d|title=[[Gold Country]]|wikidata=Q156370,Q109681,Q156353,Q156177,Q108093,Q271613,Q156346,Q156191}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5ea54a|title=[[Sierra Nevada]]|wikidata=Q108077,Q156366}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d06666|title=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]]|wikidata=Q108117,Q108067,Q108137,Q108083,Q108058,Q107146,Q62,Q108101,Q108122,Q110739}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a0a0c0|title=[[San Joaquin Valley]]|wikidata=Q108499,Q108503,Q109690,Q109661,Q271915,Q156358,Q109686,Q108047}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5fb388|title=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]]|wikidata=Q108072,Q109656,Q49014,Q108106,Q108127}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#ac663d|title=[[Southern California]] and [[Desert (California)|Desert]]|wikidata=Q104994,Q5925,Q108143,Q169952,Q108111,Q108053,Q109670}} ==Cities== [[File:San Francisco with approaching fog.jpg|thumb|400px|San Francisco, partly enshrouded in fog]] {{mapframe}} Here are a few of California's most notable cities, listed from north to south. <!--Please note: This is just a sampler of the cities most visited, with some geographic spread. If you want to add a new city, please locate the correct sub-region article that your city resides in and add the city there instead. --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Eureka]]|url=|lat=40.801944|long=-124.163611|wikidata=Q488702}} – former logging town with charming Victorian city center, waterfront trails, and Redwood Sky Walk featuring the world's tallest tree species. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Redding]]|url=|lat=40.576667|long=-122.370278|wikidata=Q495361}} – Sundial Bridge and gateway to a plethora of outdoor adventures ranging from underground caverns to some of the highest volcanic peaks in the United States. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Sacramento]]|url=|lat=38.555556|long=-121.468889|wikidata=Q18013}} – the laid-back state capital with historic Gold Rush-era quarter of the city, Old Sacramento. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Francisco]]|url=|lat=37.7857 |long=-122.4061 |wikidata=Q62}} – Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, America's largest Chinatown, cable cars, and Victorian houses. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Jose (California)|San Jose]]|url=|lat=37.333333|long=-121.9|wikidata=Q16553}} – south of San Francisco, this city is the center of Silicon Valley, and is home to many technology companies and the (in)famous Winchester Mystery House. *{{marker|type=city| name=[[Santa Barbara]] | lat=34.421 | long=-119.698| wikidata=Q159288}} – city on a south-facing coast which styles itself, with some justification, as "the American Riviera." *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Los Angeles]]|url=|lat=34.05|long=-118.25|wikidata=Q65}} – the state's largest city, and 2nd-largest in the nation. L.A. is home to Hollywood, Venice, The Getty Center, and Griffith Park. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Palm Springs]]|url=|lat=33.830278|long=-116.545278|wikidata=Q488004}} – desert recreation with golf, spas, resorts, casinos, and the famous aerial tramway. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Diego]]|url=| lat=32.7157 | long=-117.1547 ||wikidata=Q16552}} – Balboa Park, Old Town, SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, and nearby Tijuana, Mexico. ==Other destinations== [[File:4076-joshua-tree RJ.JPG|thumb|[[Joshua Tree National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Big Sur]]|lat=36.27028|long=-121.80750|wikidata=Q859413}} can be loosely defined as the stretch of coastline between Carmel and San Simeon, and the steep cliffs, rocky coast, churning waves, abundant wildlife, redwoods, and remoteness make it a stunningly beautiful drive. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Death Valley|Death Valley National Park]]|lat=36.45|long=-117.09|wikidata=Q242111}} – a place of legend and a place of trial. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Disneyland]]|lat=33.8091|long=-117.9190|wikidata=Q1229066}} – this world-famous amusement park opened its doors in 1955 and today draws around 16 million yearly visitors. The California Adventure theme park was added in 2001 and provides attractions inspired by the state's scenery and movie industry. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Joshua Tree National Park]]|lat=33.86|long=-115.89|wikidata=Q735202}} – combines two different desert ecosystems anchored by the peculiar-looking namesake tree species. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Tahoe]]|lat=39.091667|long=-120.041667|wikidata=Q169962}} – a deep blue mountain lake, popular for water sports in the summer and skiing in the winter. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Napa Valley]]|lat=38.50|long=-122.32|wikidata=Q1151105}} – the premier wine region of the United States, with spas, wine tasting and wine tours; the historic heart of [[California Wine Country]]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]|lat=36.56472|long=-118.77337}} – these twin parks hold monuments to nature's size, beauty, and diversity, including the largest tree on Earth, the General Sherman Tree. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Yosemite National Park]]|lat=37.7333|long=-119.5500|wikidata=Q180402}} – one of the first wilderness parks in the United States, the site of natural wonders such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and numerous waterfalls. California also has [[California state parks|many state parks]], approximately half of which are near urban centers. This is in addition to the state's eight [[United States national parks#California|national parks]] found across the state. ==Understand== [[File:Mission Santa Clara.jpg|thumb|Mission [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]]]] ===History=== {{see also|Indigenous cultures of North America|Old West}} Human settlement in California goes back 50,000 years; California was home to 30 different tribal groups prior to the arrival of European explorers in the 1500s and now over 120 tribes are left. The first Europeans to discover what is now California were the Spanish and Portuguese. Spanish colonialism was established through '''[[El Camino Real|twenty-one missions]]''' built throughout California by the late 1700s. These missions still survive today, stretching from [[San Diego]] on the Mexican border to [[Sonoma]] in the northern San Francisco Bay Area. After the Mexican War for Independence in 1821, California became a part of [[Mexico]] for 25 years until 1846, when many of its residents declared a sovereign nation (the '''California Republic''', also called the ''Bear Flag Republic'') before it was annexed by the United States in 1846, and has since then had an image as the "land of opportunity" and the final destination of luck-seekers. The 1848 discovery of gold in the Sierra Nevada mountains kicked off the '''California Gold Rush''', and California's non-native population surged from 15,000 to over 300,000 within two years. People who moved to California during the Gold rush were often called "49ers", a term that was adopted as the name for the San Francisco [[American Football|football]] team. California became a state in 1850, and its population has increased steadily since then. [[Los Angeles]], a city which once boasted one of the longest streetcar networks in the world, boomed through defense contractors and later converted to a "freeway" city after the streetcars were dismantled. The city hosted Olympic Games twice (1932 & 1984) at times when the Olympic movement was in crisis and the games were largely seen as successes for the city as well as the Olympic movement. [[Post-war United States|In the post-war years]], California (especially the [[Bay Area]]) became a hotspot of counterculture, including popular music, the anti-war movement, and the LGBT community. Since the late 20th century, the state and in particular, the Bay Area, has been at the forefront of the Digital Revolution, with innovations such as personal computers and smartphones having been introduced through '''Silicon Valley'''. Today California is the most populous state in the US with over 38 million residents. Taken by itself, California would rank as one of the world's top ten economies and Californian places like Silicon Valley, Hollywood and San Francisco are known globally and have shaped not only American but world culture. Politically, California is seen as a solidly "blue" state: it has a two-thirds majority of Democrats in both chambers of the legislature and often provides the Democratic party with particularly left-wing ideas, especially on social issues. That said, the state actually contains a lot of political diversity, with conservative views prevalent in much of the state outside the densely populated Bay Area and Los Angeles County, particularly in the fertile but relatively sparsely populated [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. ===Landscape=== [[File:Giant sequoias in Sequoia National Park 2013.jpg|thumb|Sequoia National Park]] With over 160,000 square miles (411,000 km²), the landscape of California is vast and varied, and the stereotypical beach paradise is only the tip of the iceberg. The state contains extremes in elevation, with [[Mount Whitney]] at 14,505 ft (4,421 m) being the tallest mountain in the [[lower 48]] states, while less than 200 miles (320 km) away [[Death Valley]], at 282 ft (82 m) below sea level, is North America's lowest point. California's border to the west is made up of a rugged coastline along the Pacific Ocean. The coastal mountains rise up from the ocean and are home to redwood trees in their northern half. Moving eastward, the Central Valley bisects California from north-to-south, before giving way to the Sierra Nevada mountains, which are home to [[Yosemite National Park]], [[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]], and other natural wonders. The southeastern part of California is dominated by desert, which covers 25% of California's total area. The [[Mojave Desert|Mojave]] is a high desert, with elevations ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 ft (1,000 to 2,000 m) above sea level. This area receives less than six inches (152 mm) of rain each year. ===Climate=== [[File:Surfers At Steamer Lane Santa Cruz CA. - panoramio.jpg|alt=Surfers on the water|thumb|Wetsuits were invented in Santa Cruz because the ocean is so cold.]] The state's climate varies from subtropical at the coast to the brutal winters of the mountains to one of the world's hottest regions in the deserts. Rainfall is more common in the northern part of the state than in the south, and snow is rare except in the mountains. Most precipitation occurs during winter, but California experiences frequent droughts. This has prompted people to install drought-resistant landscaping. In some years, farms lie fallow due to lack of water for irrigation. The hottest temperature ever recorded in the Western Hemisphere, 134°F (56.6°C) was at Death Valley in 1913, and temperatures here regularly exceed 120°F (50°C) during the summer. In contrast, winter temperatures in the mountains can drop below 0°F (-20°C). In between these extremes there are great local variations in climate due to topography and the influence of the Pacific Ocean upon precipitation and temperature, with temperatures becoming increasingly moderated nearer the coastline. For swimming, the Pacific Ocean can be surprisingly cold even in July due to currents. September and October are the best months for swimming. Another surprise in coastal areas is the presence of cool temperatures and fog in the mornings through most of the year. To experience California as a sunny place, plan to sleep late. ===People=== California is a very diverse state with many ethnic groups. California has large populations of people of varied backgrounds such as Mexican, Salvadoran, Guatemalan, Armenian, Iranian, Jewish, Chinese, Russian, Filipino, Eastern Indian, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Thai, and Hmong. California also has large populations of African Americans and Native Americans. Although typically considered to be a liberal state, Californians have a wide variety of political views which tend to vary based on region. The Central Valley, [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]], San Diego, and Palm Springs area tend to be more conservative, while [[Los Angeles County]] and the [[Bay Area|San Francisco Bay Area]] are among the most progressive areas in the country. California is a large and diverse state, with different cultures in each region. ===Holidays=== California observes all the [[Holidays of the United States|federal holidays]], except Columbus Day, and adds Farmworkers Day on March 31st (or nearest weekday). However, some cities such as [[Coronado (California)|Coronado]] that have a large population of federal workers or military personnel do observe Columbus Day. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitcalifornia.com/ Visit California] website ==Talk== [[File:Golden Hour at Emerald Bay.jpg|thumb|Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe]] Although the California Constitution states that '''English''' is the official language of the state of California, in reality, California is a multilingual state. American English is the main language and '''[[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]''' is the ''de facto'' second language, and a knowledge of even rudimentary Spanish is useful in most cities from Sacramento to San Diego. Los Angeles has some of the largest Hispanic populations north of Mexico. The state is highly influenced by Spanish culture due to its history, and it is not uncommon to see store and street signs written in both English and Spanish. "Spanglish" (a mixture of English and Spanish) is often used and heard throughout the state. Even people with no Latino heritage whatsoever sometimes speak fluent Spanish or use common Spanish-derived expressions when speaking English. Most government offices and tourist attractions, as well as many businesses in California have at least a few employees who are bilingual in English and Spanish. In fact, some restaurants may have a workforce that is more fluent in Spanish than English. Due to a history of Asian immigration and influence, Asian languages such as Cantonese, Mandarin, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, and Hindi are also spoken among Asian Californian populations. The major cities also tend to have communities of essentially any ethnicity imaginable, and there is a good chance you can hear their language and have an opportunity to experience their cultures. San Francisco, for example, is home to a significant French community, while Los Angeles boasts quite a large Ethiopian neighborhood. ==Get in== [[File:Skyscraper Los Angeles Downtown 2013.jpg|thumb|Skyscrapers in Downtown L.A.]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Flying in the United States}} [[San Francisco International Airport]] ({{IATA|SFO}}) and [[Los Angeles International Airport]] ({{IATA|LAX}}) are the most popular entry points with a wide variety of flights from [[Europe]], [[East Asia]], [[India]], [[Oceania]] ([[Australia]], [[Fiji]], [[New Zealand]], [[Tahiti]], etc.), [[Latin America]] and from various cities in the U.S. on a variety of U.S. and foreign flag carriers. To a lesser extent there are also direct flights from the [[Middle East]] ([[Israel]], [[Qatar]], [[Saudi Arabia]], [[Turkey]] and the [[United Arab Emriates]]) to Los Angeles. They are however also the most crowded and the SFO-LAX route is one of the busiest air corridors in the world causing frequent delays due to congestion. Delays at San Francisco airport due to fog are also somewhat common. If coming from within the U.S. and from Mexico there are other alternate airports in California that are less crowded and may be closer to your final destination. They are: :* Los Angeles area – [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Hollywood-Burbank Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]] (closest to Hollywood and Downtown Los Angeles), [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa_Ana_(California)|Orange County]] (closest to Disneyland & Knott's Berry Farm), [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario International Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}) in Ontario (closest to Joshua Tree and the Inland Empire deserts), and [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach Airport] ({{IATA|LGB}}) in [[Long Beach]]. :* San Francisco Bay Area – [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport] ({{IATA|OAK}}) in Oakland (closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose Airport] ({{IATA|SJC}}) in San Jose (closest to Silicon Valley), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] ({{IATA|STS}}) in [[Santa Rosa (California)|Santa Rosa]] (closest to Wine Country). Both San Francisco and Oakland airports are now connected to the local metro network, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a bus route 10 to the 'Santa Clara Station'. :* [[San Diego International Airport]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) in San Diego :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento Airport]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) in Sacramento :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno Airport]] ({{IATA|RNO}}) in [[Reno]], Nevada is closer to [[Lake Tahoe]] than from Sacramento. :* [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno Airport] ({{IATA|FAT}}) in Fresno, closest to Yosemite NP and the major airport in the [[San Joaquin Valley]]. :* Palm Springs ({{IATA|PSP}}) :* Central Coast – Monterey ({{IATA|MRY}}) (closest to Big Sur), San Luis Obispo ({{IATA|SBP}}) (closest to Hearst Castle), and Santa Barbara ({{IATA|SBA}}). :* [[Harry_Reid_International_Airport|Las Vegas]] ({{IATA|LAS}}), Nevada is closer to Death Valley NP than from Los Angeles or Ontario. :* [[Tijuana#By plane|Tijuana Airport]] ({{IATA|TIJ}}) in Tijuana. If coming from Mexico it may be more advantageous to fly to Tijuana on a (Mexican) domestic flight and then cross into San Diego by ground transportation or through its second terminal (CBX) on the American side of the border than on an international flight to San Diego, Los Angeles, or other cities further north. From San Diego, you can continue north to the San Francisco Bay area, Las Vegas, [[Phoenix]] or wherever in the U.S. you are continuing to. See [[California#By plane 2|By plane]] under the "Get Around" section for more information. ===By train=== {{see also|Rail travel in the United States}} [[Amtrak]] serves several routes into and out of California. If you are going to Los Angeles from the Central Valley, you might have to change to a bus for the last part of the trip, as the only railway connection between the Central Valley and Los Angeles is also one of the busiest freight lines in the United States. Plans to build a new [[high speed rail]] line to link San Francisco and Los Angeles are underway, but completion is not scheduled before the late 2020s. The following Amtrak routes serve California and terminate in [[Los Angeles#By train|Los Angeles]] or [[Emeryville]]: * The ''[[California Zephyr]]'' runs daily between [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] and [[Emeryville]] with connections in [[Omaha]], [[Denver]], [[Provo]], [[Salt Lake City]] and [[Reno|Reno/Lake Tahoe]]. This train also stops in the Sierra Nevada (Truckee and Colfax) and the Sacramento Valley (Roseville, [[Sacramento]], Davies and Martinez). Emeryville is the nearest Amtrak station to downtown San Francisco where passengers transfer to the Amtrak Thruway bus to continue across the bay to San Francisco. * The ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' runs daily between Los Angeles and [[Seattle#By train|Seattle]] via [[Portland (Oregon)#By train|Portland]], [[Klamath Falls]], [[Redding]], [[Bay Area (California)|San Francisco Bay Area]], Santa Barbara, [[San Luis Obispo]] and [[Oxnard]]. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/southwest-chief-train.html Southwest Chief]'' runs daily from [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] via [[Kansas City]], [[Albuquerque]], [[Flagstaff]], Williams Junction (nearest stop to the [[Grand Canyon]]) and [[Kingman]] to Los Angeles. It also makes stops in the Mojave Desert ([[Needles]], [[Barstow]] and [[Victorville]]); the [[Inland Empire]] ([[Riverside]] and [[San Bernardino]]) and Orange County ([[Fullerton]]) and on its way into Los Angeles. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/sunset-limited-train.html Sunset Limited]'' runs three times a week from [[New Orleans]] via [[Houston]], [[San Antonio]], [[El Paso]], [[Tucson]] and [[Yuma]]. Additionally, Amtrak's ''[http://www.texaseagle.com/ Texas Eagle]'' service between San Antonio and Chicago incorporates the Sunset Limited to provide a direct connection to Los Angeles with the same stops as the Sunset Limited between San Antonio and Los Angeles. This train also stops in the Inland Empire ([[Pomona]], Ontario and Palm Springs). Train services are limited to two token lines with hardly any real transport value in Mexico and there are ''no'' passenger rail service to anywhere near the U.S./Mexican border from anywhere in Mexico. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to California. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''By bus'' under ''Get around'' in the below for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By car=== All major road entrances (including entrances from other U.S. States) to California have agricultural inspection stations to ensure that some fruits and vegetables do not cross into a region where they may come into contact with the farms in the [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. Often, travelers are subject to border inspection (somewhat strict for domestic travel) and asked if they have been on a farm or are carrying organic matter with them. ==Get around== California is the third largest state of the U.S. by area (after [[Alaska]] and [[Texas]]). It compares in size with [[Sweden]]. However, getting around California can be simple. ===By car=== [[File:California State Route 1 in Marin County.jpg|California State Route 1|thumb|right|250px]] [[File:405 southbound near Getty Museum.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Interstate 405 in Los Angeles]] In addition to interstates and US highways, California has one of the most expansive state highway systems in the United States. As with all long-distance trips in the United States, a car is generally the best way to get around and see destinations, especially rural ones. However the trip from the northern end of California to the southern end can take well over ten hours as the state's varied and in places rugged terrain can pose obstacles to the road network. The coast routes (State Route 1 and U.S. 101) are much slower and windier than Interstate 5, and GPS travel estimate times may be inaccurate, especially on Highway 1. Most California drivers are courteous and careful (although speeding is rampant), and the safety and ease of driving in California is comparable to most wealthy countries. Exceptions may be found in the most congested areas of San Francisco and Los Angeles &mdash; where potholes, road rage and reckless driving are commonplace &mdash; and some country roads in mountain ranges. Information about vehicle collisions and other non-congestion traffic problems on highways are reported online at [https://www.chp.ca.gov/traffic chp.ca.gov/traffic]. Traffic congestion is tracked by most online map sites. Gasoline prices are more expensive than in other parts of the U.S.; consider public transit in highly populated areas such as the Bay Area where prices are especially high. ====Freeway signage (and cautions)==== California uses the MUTCD (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices) lane marking system standard throughout the United States, in which dashed white lines divide lanes of through traffic and yellow divides opposing traffic (with single dashed indicating passing and double solid indicating no passing). In many urban areas the lane markings are replaced by Botts dots for additional tactile feedback when crossing lanes. The network of freeways in major population centers is often confusing and intimidating to those unfamiliar with the area, so having a good map is very helpful. The great majority of exits from freeways are on the right. At interchanges between freeways, in most cases, the flow of traffic continues through the left lanes with the transition to the other freeway being in the right lanes. At some freeway interchanges, Caltrans (California Dept. of Transportation) is notorious for posting advance direction signs that do not correctly explain which lanes correspond to which ramps. Additionally, Caltrans does not always post signs warning of upcoming lane drops or merges. For example, where a freeway has three through lanes and the central lane splits into two lanes, thus resulting in two ramps with two lanes each, the advance signage may incorrectly imply that only the right lane will break off for the upcoming right-side ramp, thus causing visitors driving in the middle lane to merge unnecessarily into the right lane. And the two lanes on the right-side ramp may suddenly merge into each other without any warning. These issues frequently result in visitors making wild last-minute lane merges. Approach major freeway interchanges in California with caution. Mile-based exit numbering is in progress but is still very erratic in areas; an exit number may not be marked at all, may be marked on the last directional sign before the exit, or may be marked on the final "Exit" sign where the exit ramp separates. ====Ramp meters==== In urban areas, the access ramps to a freeway may have traffic lights for each lane (called ramp meters or ramp metering lights; you'll see warning signs that read "meter on"). During high-traffic times, the traffic light spaces out the vehicles attempting to merge onto the freeway. Be sure to read the sign below the light as ramps can allow 1 to 3 vehicles per green light. Most ramp meters are for ramps from local roads to a freeway, but some freeway junctions have meters on their ramps too. ====Toll roads and bridges==== Most highways are freely accessible and toll-free. However, California has some toll bridges, toll roads, and tolled Express Lanes. Toll road and bridges are indicated on road signs. When a toll-free road flows directly into a toll road or bridge, there is sometimes a sign for "last exit before toll". FasTrak electronic toll collection (ETC) via toll transponders or tags is used for all toll facilities. Cash is no longer accepted. FasTrak is not compatible with any other state's ETC system. Some California toll authorities also allow online pay-by-plate, but if no signage mentions it, assume it is unavailable. If you drive a vehicle through a toll gantry without an active FasTrak account and the toll authority has no pay by plate option, you may receive an expensive ticket for nonpayment of toll. In Northern California, all major bridges in the San Francisco Bay Area have toll plazas, with tolls charged on traffic in only one direction. The plazas are unmanned and will be replaced with gantries for open-road tolling, but for now, drivers must slow to 20 mph to pass through them. Southern California has several toll roads in Orange County which use open-road tolling. "Express Lanes" are high-occupancy (HOV) lanes (carpool lanes) that non-high-occupancy vehicles can often use by paying a toll. Electronic signs will indicate whether the Express Lane is "open to all" (no toll is charged) or "HOV only" (only HOVs eligible for toll-free access may use the lane). If the signs show a price in dollars and cents, it means that non-HOV vehicles may use the Express Lane but will be charged that toll. During times of severe traffic congestion, Express Lanes may charge tolls of $20 or more per vehicle. HOVs are supposed to be exempt from tolls in Express Lanes. Some Express Lane operators require all HOVs to carry FasTrak Flex transponders to signal their toll-free status. If you are legally using a free carpool lane and a sign warns it will turn into a tolled Express Lane, you must merge immediately back into regular lanes if you do not have FasTrak Flex. ====HOV/carpool lanes==== Some freeways have a high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane on the far left. This lane, also called the carpool lane or diamond lane, is marked by: * a diamond symbol painted on the road surface * signage on the wall separating the two sides of the freeway, with the diamond symbol * a double yellow line on the road surface (only in Southern California) Some freeway access ramps have carpool lanes too; often, the non-carpool lanes will have ramp meter traffic lights while the carpool lane has none. In most cases, the carpool lane is only for vehicles with 2 or more persons inside, motorcycles, and clean-air vehicles with [https://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/carpool/carpool.htm government-issued "Access OK" stickers]. Sometimes, 3 or more persons and/or a FasTrak transponder may be required, so check the signage before entering a carpool lane. Carpool lane restrictions may be enforced 24 hours a day every day, or only when the signage says so (in those cases, it's usually only during rush hour on weekdays). Carpool lanes in Southern California have limited access points marked by a dashed white line. This is the only point at which a vehicle may legally enter or exit a carpool lane, since you are not allowed to cross a double yellow line. The minimum fine for unlawful use of a carpool lane is $490. ====Traffic safety and law enforcement==== All persons in a moving vehicle are required to wear a seatbelt and the driver and all passengers can be individually ticketed for failing to do so. Motorcycle riders must wear a helmet. Cellphone users are required to use a hands-free headset if talking on the phone while driving. Texting by the driver is illegal, as is any action on the phone that forces the driver to touch it more than once (and even single-touch actions are only allowed if the phone is mounted securely rather than hand-held). Unless otherwise signed, right-turns are permitted at red lights following a full stop. If it is raining hard enough to require you to use your windshield wipers, California law requires that your headlights be turned on. Most California police officers carry radar guns to catch speeding drivers. The California Highway Patrol occasionally flies aircraft overhead to spot speeders and help ground units home in on their positions. Red light enforcement cameras are in use at many urban intersections, but are marked only by a single "photo enforced" sign before the intersection. Speed enforcement cameras are being piloted in a few cities, including San Francisco and Los Angeles; the cameras are small and hard to spot. California's laws against driving under the influence of alcohol are very strict; the maximum permissible blood alcohol concentration is 0.08%. All drivers are strongly encouraged to call 911 to report drunk drivers. California requires disabled out-of-state visitors to apply at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for a travel placard for handicapped parking. It is valid for 90 days. Travelers with a non-US driver's license are generally permitted to drive in California. However, travelers who are in California for more than 10 days with some kinds of visas, especially the K-1 non-immigrant visa for future spouses, have run into some difficulties over their place of residence. The DMV refuses to issue drivers' licenses to people with non-immigrant visas, but police have filed charges against some of them for becoming a California resident without promptly obtaining a California license – the very license that the State refuses to issue on the grounds that they haven't legally become residents yet. This risk may be reduced by giving your non-California address as your place of legal residence if stopped by police. Unlike most states, "lane-splitting" by motorcyclists (i.e. riding down the painted lines between traffic lanes) is legal in California and commonly done in heavy traffic. It's only legal when traffic is going slower than 30 mph, and motorcyclists are only allowed to go 15 mph faster than the general flow of traffic, but many motorcyclists seem to treat this as more of a guideline than a hard and fast rule. As a result, if you're driving a car, take extra care to watch for motorcycles when changing lanes on a major highway. ====Major highways==== [[File:California State Route 1 All American Road sign.jpg|150px|thumb|right|A California State Highway sign. The poppy sign below it indicates that it is a state scenic route]] Here are some important highways in California: * [[File:I-5.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 5]]:''' Runs between San Diego, Los Angeles, and Sacramento, then north into Oregon and Washington. :*[[File:California 99.svg|22px]] '''State Route 99:''' Runs along the California Central Valley between Red Bluff, Sacramento, Stockton, Modesto, Fresno and Bakersfield as the Golden State Freeway. * [[File:I-8.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 8:''' Runs between San Diego, Calexico, Yumma, and Casa Grande, Arizona. * [[File:I-10.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10]]:''' Runs between Santa Monica, Los Angeles, the Inland Empire and Palm Springs, then over the Colorado River into Arizona and points east. * [[File:I-15.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 15:''' Runs between San Diego, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Las Vegas, Nevada and points north. * [[File:I-40.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 40:''' Runs between Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona, towards Oklahoma City and points east. Interstate 40 bypasses or replaces the old Route 66 between Barstow and Oklahoma City (as County Rd 66 in San Bernardino County). :* [[File:US_66_(historic).svg|22px]] '''[[Route 66|Historic Route 66]]:''' Now decommissioned, historically connected Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona and points east. It runs alongside I-40 between Barstow and Oklahoma City and alongside or concurrent with I-15 between Barstow and San Bernardino. * [[File:I-80.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 80:''' Runs between the Bay Area, Sacramento, Reno, Nevada, and points east * [[File:I-405.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 405:''' Runs {{mile|72}} between Northridge and Irvine via Van Nuys, LAX, Culver City, Long Beach, Santa Ana, and point in between as an auxiliary by-pass of I-5 through the Los Angeles Area. * [[File:I-580.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 580:''' Connects the San Francisco Bay Area with Interstate 5 in the Central Valley * [[File:US 50.svg|22px]]'''U.S. Highway 50:''' Runs between Sacramento, South Lake Tahoe, Carson City, Nevada, and points east * [[File:US 101.svg|22px]] '''U.S. Highway 101:''' Runs between Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, then close to the California Coast to the San Francisco Bay, Eureka and points north :* [[File:California 1.svg|22px]] '''[[Pacific Coast Highway|State Route 1]]:''' Runs up the California Coast between Orange County, Los Angeles, Monterey, the Bay Area, and [[Fort Bragg]] * [[File:US 395.svg|22px]] '''U.S. Highway 395:''' Runs along the Eastern Sierras, connecting the Inland Empire and High Desert with Bishop, Reno, and Susanville, then into Oregon and points north ====Taxis and rideshares==== Taxis and rideshare services (Uber and Lyft) are widely available in and around California's largest cities: San Francisco, Los Angeles (including Orange County), San Diego, and Sacramento. They are less likely to be available in small towns and rural areas. ====Robotaxis==== Waymo operates a robotaxi service with self-driving vehicles in two service areas: one on the San Francisco Peninsula from San Francisco to downtown San Jose, and another in the western part of Los Angeles south of the Santa Monica Mountains, from downtown Los Angeles to Santa Monica and as far south as Inglewood. However, Waymo does not yet have authorization to provide service to Los Angeles International Airport. Only San Jose International Airport allows Waymo unrestricted access to pick up and drop off passengers. Waymo is now able to drive on freeways, and it can also pick up and drop off at San Francisco International Airport, but only at the Rental Car Center (10 minutes to the terminals via AirTrain tram). Both features are subject to wait lists, making them less useful to new users. ===By plane=== [[File:LAX LA.jpg|Los Angeles International Airport|250px|thumb|right]] Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state. [https://www.aa.com American/American Eagle]; [https://www.united.com/ United/United Express]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.delta.com Delta], [https://www.southwest.com Southwest], [https://www.jetblue.com JetBlue], [http://www.jsx.com Jet Suite X (JSX)], [https://www.spirit.com Spirit] and [https://www.alaskaair.com Alaska Airlines] offer intrastate flights within the state of California. San Francisco is a hub for United and Alaska; while Los Angeles is a hub for United, American/American Eagle, Delta, JetBlue and Alaska Airlines. The LAX-SFO route is one of the busiest in America which means competitive fares and delays are frequent which is only made worse by the fog that tends to hit San Francisco bay on a regular basis. In addition, the airlines offer flights from different airports in [[Southern California#By plane|southern California]] in the south; to the [[Bay_Area_(California)#By plane|SF Bay area]] and to Sacramento in the north at competitive rates. A route between lesser-known airports (say, Burbank to Oakland) may save you money and avoid airport chaos compared to LAX-SFO. The primary airports served by major US carriers, Volaris (from Mexico) and Aeromexico (from Mexico) in California are in: :* Los Angeles area – [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles International]] ({{IATA|LAX}}), [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Burbank-Hollywood Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]], [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa Ana_(California)|Orange County]]; [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}), and a small airport in [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach] ({{IATA|LGB}}) :* San Francisco Bay Area – [[San Francisco International Airport|San Francisco]] ({{IATA|SFO}}), [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay] ({{IATA|OAK}}), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose] ({{IATA|SJC}}), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] (Charles M. Schulz Airport) ({{IATA|STS}}) in Santa Rosa; both San Francisco and Oakland airport are now connected to the metro, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a free shuttle at the 'Santa Clara Station'. Oakland is closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO is and offers a fog-free alternative. :* [[San Diego#By plane|San Diego]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno]] ({{IATA|RNO}}), Nevada closer to the Lake Tahoe area than Sacramento The busiest second tier airports are [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno] ({{IATA|FAT}}) (nearest to Yosemite NP); [https://flysba.santabarbaraca.gov/ Santa Barbara] ({{IATA|SBA}}); and [https://flypsp.com/ Palm Springs] ({{IATA|PSP}}). There are also flights from major hubs to [[Arcata]]/McKinleyville (nearest to Eureka), Bakersfield, Crescent City, El Centro, Mammoth Lakes, Merced, Monterey, Redding, San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, and Stockton. ===By train=== The state's various rail services provide a cheap and reasonably comfortable way to see and get around much of the state [[USA without a car|without a car]]. '''[[Amtrak]]''' operates a few long-distance routes through and out of California, as well as the three Amtrak California routes: :* San Luis Obispo-Santa Barbara-Los Angeles-Anahiem-San Diego on the ''[https://www.pacificsurfliner.com/ Pacific Surfliner]'' :* Oakland/Sacramento-Stockton-Fresno-Bakersfield on the ''[https://goldrunner.com/ Gold Runner]'' (which has a connecting Thruway bus service to Los Angeles) :* San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Auburn on the ''[https://www.capitolcorridor.org/ Capitol Corridor]'' :* Los Angeles-Santa Barbara-San Luis Obispo-San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Redding-(continues to Seattle) on the ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' :* Emeryville (San Francisco connection)-Sacramento-Truckee (near Lake Tahoe)-(continues to Chicago) on the ''California Zephyr'' :*Los Angeles-Palm Springs-(continues to Chicago) on the Sunset Limited :*''Amtrak Thruway Motorcoaches'' connects additional cities and towns to/from the Amtrak (train) network by bus such as Santa Cruz-San Jose; San Francisco-Emeryville; Bakersfield-Los Angeles; Bakersfield-Las Vegas; Martinez-Arcata; Redding-Sacramento; etc. Amtrak has seen continuously increasing ridership in most of the US for more than a decade now, and surprisingly enough three of the six most popular Amtrak routes run through California, thus making them a viable alternative to the more often than not congested roads and airports. In addition, there are several commuter and regional services in the state's metro areas: :*''[https://www.caltrain.com/ Caltrain]'' San Francisco-Palo Alto-San Jose-Gilroy through the famous Silicon Valley. :* ''[https://acerail.com/ Altamont Commuter Express]'' San Jose-Stockton through the Altamont Corridor Express. :* ''[https://www.bart.gov/ BART]'' operates in the Bay Area, connecting much of the East Bay (Oakland, Berkeley, Walnut Creek) to San Francisco and SFO. :* ''[https://metrolinktrains.com/ Metrolink]'' runs regional train service throughout the greater Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura County (metropolis) region on multiple routes. :* ''[https://gonctd.com/services/coaster-commuter-rail/ COASTER]'' runs along the coast of San Diego County between downtown San Diego, Carlsbad and Oceanside. :*''[https://gonctd.com/services/sprinter-hybrid-rail/ SPRINTER]'' runs across Northern San Diego County between Escondino and Oceanside with bus and train connections to Los Angeles and San Diego. :*''[https://www.sonomamarintrain.org/ Sonoma-Marin Rail (SMART)]'' runs between Santa Rosa and San Rafael in Marin/Sonoma County (Northern Bay Area) with ferry connections to San Francisco There are also light rail systems in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Jose. Almost all of these systems are being expanded or upgraded to cope with rising ridership, so expect more and better service in years to come. ===By bus=== {{see also|Long-distance bus travel in the United States }} The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There are fairly frequent service from [[Los Angeles#By bus|Los Angeles]] to [[San Francisco#By bus|San Francisco]]/[[San Jose_(California)#By bus|San Jose]]; [[San Diego#By_bus|San Diego]]/[[Tijuana#By_bus|Tijuana]]; [[Las Vegas#By_bus|Las Vegas]]/[[San Bernardino#By_bus|San Bernardino]] and [[Sacramento#By bus|Sacramento]] with on multiple routes with various bus companies. There are other the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns which are not listed, check the article of your destination for all the transportation options. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/california/ here]. * {{listing | name=Eastern Sierra Transit | alt= | url=https://www.estransit.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 760 872-1901 | tollfree=+1 800 922-1930 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Operates 'local' buses along US Hwy 395 corridor between Mammoth Lake, Bishop and Lone Pine in Mono and Inyo Counties in the eastern 'Desert' and the Sierra Nevada parts of the state. They have a route continuing north to Carson City & Reno from Mammoth Lake and south to Lancaster from Lone Pine. The area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway buses }} * {{listing | type=go | name=El Paso Los Angeles Limousine Express | alt= | url=https://www.eplalimo.com/ | email= | address=(downtown LA depot) 622 E 6th St | lat= | long= | directions=SW corner of E 6th St & Wall St across the street from police station | phone=+1 213 623-2323 and +1 323-265-3232 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Travels along I-10 between Los Angeles, [[Indio]], Phoenix, [[Las Cruces]] and El Paso on one route and on I-15 to Las Vegas & North Las Vegas on another route. They have additional stops in E. Los Angeles, El Monte and [[Colton]] on their way on both routes. They also have a second depot at 4425 S Atlantic Blvd in E Los Angeles. }} * {{listing | name=Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.flixbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 626-8585 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-06-14 | content=The German bus company, Flixbus, connects Los Angeles to Las Vegas, Phoenix, Sacramento, SF Bay Area and San Diego via multiple cities en route in Arizona and California. It has grown rapidly through subcontracting its operations, which has the downside for customers that the buses are not of a consistent style or quality. In October 2021 they had merged with Greyhound Lines (see below) but, maintain separate brands. Tickets and schedules with Greyhound and Flixbus can be searched and purchased through each other's websites. }} * {{listing | name=Green Tortoise | alt= | url=https://greentortoise.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 415 956-7500 | tollfree=1 800 867-8647 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates something like a 'hippie' bus that serves as a bus by day with stops to visit different places like a bus tour throughout the day and a RV camper by night in different campgrounds. It offers bus tours and camping trips to Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Death Valley Sequoia and along the coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Some of its tours involve a 3- to 5-day round trip from the point of origin such as from San Francisco to Yosemite NP and back while others are one way where the journey starts from one place and end in the other like from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree and end in Las Vegas. Even with round trips it is possible to ask to be picked up or dropped off in different places than the point of origin/return. Others like its 'Hostel Hoppers' or 'Express' are a straightforward bus ride from point A to B. It is one way to combine 'taking the bus' from one place to another and to visit and see remote places without a private automobile. }} * {{listing | name=Greyhound , Cruceros-USA, Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1 800 231-2222 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Greyhound goes to 100 locations statewide, though these are not all actual stations, some are merely stops. In general, Greyhound serves the same routes that Amtrak does along the main highways. In some cases Greyhound is cheaper, faster, and more frequent than Amtrak. Flixbus tickets can also be searched and purchased on Greyhound's website }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Hoang Express | alt= | url=https://www.xedohoang.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 714 839-3500 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=$60-65 to Bay Area; $80 to Sacramento | content=Travels between SoCal (San Diego, El Monte, Los Angeles, [[Westminster (California)|Westminster]]); Bay Area (San Francisco, San Jose & Oakland) and to Sacramento on another route from Los Angeles. They also offer service from Los Angeles to Arizona (Phoenix, [[Chandler (Arizona)|Chandler]] and [[Tempe]]. }} * {{go | name=International Bus Lines | alt=formerly Intercalifornias | url=https://www.ibuslines.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 629-4885 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination | content=Connects Tijuana, San Ysidro (just over the border), Santa Ana, Los Angeles, San Fernando, Bakersfield, Fresno, and San Jose/[[Stockton (California)|Stockton]] (route splits/joins in Madero) and several other places in between. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=LuxBus | alt= | url=https://www.luxbusamerica.com/ | email= | address=on request for hotel pick up/drop off | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-877-610-7870 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Operates to/from [[Las Vegas]], [[Anaheim]], and [[San Diego]]. }} * {{listing | name=Mendocino Transit Authority (MTA) | alt= | url=https://mendocinotransit.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Travels extensively in the North Coast region along Hwy 1 from Ft Bragg to Navarro River Junction (#65), Point Arena (#75), Bodega Bay and Santa Rosa (#95). Another route from Ft Bragg to Willits, Ukiah and Santa Rosa along SR-20 and US Hwy 101 (Rt #65). Much of the area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway Buses off the US Hwy 101 corridor. }} * {{listing | name=Sage Stage | alt= | url=https://sagestage.com/ | email= | address=(bus stops) Rite Aide @ 5th & Main in Alturas | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 530 233-6410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-18 | content=Provides public transportation from Alturas and Canby in Modoc County, in the [[Shasta Cascades]], to [[Redding]]; [[Reno]], NV; and [[Klamath Falls]], OR on three separate routes. }} * {{listing | name=Santa Barbara Airbus | alt= | url=https://www.sbairbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 805 964-7759 | tollfree=+1-800-423-1618 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-08-05 | content=Eight trips a day from [[Los Angeles International Airport|LAX]] to [[Carpinteria]], [[Santa Barbara]] and [[Goleta]]. }} * {{listing | name="Cabin" | alt=formerly Sleep Bus | url=https://www.ridecabin.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-25 | content=Overnight service to the Los Angeles area (Ocean & Arizona Ave in Palisades Park in [[Santa Monica]]) from San Francisco (Bayside Lot @ 1 Bryant St). This is an actual sleeper bus featuring twin size bunk beds with privacy curtains, power outlets, and free wifi. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Tufesa | alt= | url=https://www.gotobus.com/tufesa/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 489-8079 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination |lastedit=2022-11-30| content=Connects Los Angeles to Sacramento (via Bakersfield, Fresno, etc); to Salt Lake City (via Barstow, Las Vegas, St George, etc); to Hermosillo (via Phoenix, Tucson, Nogales); San Francisco Bay Area; and to Tijuana (via Santa Ana, San Diego/San Ysidro). }} * {{listing | name=Yarts | alt= | url=https://yarts.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates regularly scheduled buses from Yosemite NP (Visitors' Center) to Fresno, Merced, Mammoth Lakes & Sonora on four separate routes. }} ===By foot=== *The [[Pacific Crest Trail]] crosses the length of California on its way from [[Mexico]] to [[Canada]] *The [[American Discovery Trail]] connects California with [[Nevada]] and the East Coast. ===By boat=== *Ferry service is limited, but can be a scenic, relaxing, and fun way to travel. Major services exist in the [[Bay Area]], to the [[Channel Islands (California)|Channel Islands]] and to [[Catalina Island]] near Los Angeles. Several of the smaller coastal towns have water taxi services within their city. Check as the stops and limited and the schedules may seasonal. *Many cities are along the coast, or else on navigable waterways, and you can dock your own boat there. == See == [[File:Us-ca-sanfran-goldengate.jpg|thumb|Golden Gate Bridge in [[San Francisco]]]] As the most geographically and culturally diverse state in the U.S., California offers an endless amount of things to see and do; even when you think you've experienced everything in one area of the state, a short trip to another part has plenty more to offer. Incredible and unique scenery, some of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, centuries old historical sites, unending cultural and entertainment options {{snd}}no matter where your interests lie, California will almost certainly offer it. ===Natural attractions=== [[Image:16-yosemite-half-dome.jpg|thumb|Half Dome at [[Yosemite National Park]]]] From white-sand beaches to snowcapped mountains, with lush forests and arid deserts in between, no other state offers such a wide a variety of natural landscapes as California does. California hosts the largest number of [[United States national parks|U.S. national parks]] with a total of nine. The most famous of these is '''[[Yosemite National Park]]''', featuring thundering waterfalls and geological behemoths like El Capitan and Half Dome. The surrounding [[Sierra Nevada]] also hosts nearby '''[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]''' which are both home to some of the world's largest living organisms, the giant sequoia. '''[[Redwood National Park]]''' in the far northwestern corner of the state and the surrounding area feature the world's tallest species of trees, the coast redwood. Tired of forests? The California desert is the site of some of the hottest and most arid places on Earth. '''[[Death Valley National Park]]''' is the location of the highest ever recorded temperature on the planet. If deserts are not your thing, beaches and California are practically synonymous. '''[[Big Sur]]''' and '''[[Point Reyes National Seashore|Point Reyes]]''' are notable examples of a scenic, winding stretch of unspoiled coastline that is typical of Northern California, featuring rocky cliffs and towering redwood trees that meet thundering ocean waves. Further south, the water is much warmer and suitable for all-day beach trips. Here, world-class beach towns such as '''[[Santa Barbara]]''', '''[[Malibu]]''', and those of '''[[Beach Cities|Orange County]]''' offer opportunities to catch waves, practice beach volleyball, or simply lounge around and tan underneath palm trees. If high-altitude adventure is what you are seeking, California has that too. At an elevation of 14,505 feet (4,421 meters) above sea level, '''[[Mount Whitney]]''' is the highest mountain in the lower 48 states. Snow activities such as skiing and snowboarding are plentiful in '''[[Lake Tahoe]]''' in the winter, while hiking and water recreation such as boating are popular in summer. [[File:Silver Lake.jpg|thumb|Silver Lake is in the [[Sierra Nevada|Sierra Nevada Range]] of eastern California]] While the national parks may receive most of the attention, California has the largest [[California state parks|state park system]] in the United States. These protected areas are found in places ranging from being adjacent to national parks to green landscapes in the middle of cities that offer a respite from the hectic urban rush. California's high population and its climate have also led to the creation of numerous [[Reservoirs in California|reservoirs]]. California marine animals (native and migrating) are easily found in the wild along the state's beaches, in lagoons and estuaries, such as sea otters, grey whales, elephant seals, harbor seals, sea lions as well as multitudes of tide pools dwellers including crabs, sea stars, anemone, and sea urchins. Timing is key: go at low tide to see lots of marine life. ===Monuments and architecture=== California has long been a canvas for architects and engineers to design and build some pioneering structures or to popularize styles that would define a time period. With two of the most prominent cities in the United States, [[Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco]], this is certainly notable with many of the structures and buildings that are found there. San Francisco is home to engineering marvels such as the '''Golden Gate Bridge''', Lombard Street (the most crooked street in the world), and cable cars that seemingly glide up and down the hills between the waterfront and rest of downtown. The many skyscrapers such as the Transamerica Pyramid have all been specifically designed to withstand powerful earthquakes. The stately '''Palace of Fine Arts''' and charming Painted Ladies of Alamo Square have served as backdrops countless of times for the city by the Bay. As the epicenter of the global entertainment industry, the '''Hollywood Sign''' is an icon of Los Angeles recognized worldwide. The nearby Hollywood Walk of Fame, Capitol Records Building, and numerous theaters all solidify the city's hold on entertainment. The Griffith Observatory and Walt Disney Concert Hall are also notable features in the cityscape, as is the imposing '''Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum''', the site of the 1932 and 1984 Summer Olympics. Other notable landmarks outside these two cities include the '''California State Capitol''' in [[Sacramento]] (modeled after the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.), labyrinthine '''Winchester Mystery House''' in [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]] with eerie origins, and the lavish '''Hearst Castle''' in the Central Coast town of [[San Simeon]] that anchors the landscape of the surrounding area. ===Historical sites=== From former Native American sites to suburban garages where modern technology was invented, California's centuries-long history is preserved in numerous historical sites and museums that are scattered throughout the state. One of the most comprehensive collections of state history from prehistory to contemporary times is housed in the '''Oakland Museum of California''' in [[Oakland]], with a vast collection of nearly 2 million items related to California history, art, and science. The legacy of Spanish colonial times remains with the string of '''twenty-one missions''' that span the length of much of the state from '''Mission San Diego de Alcalá ''' in the San Diego's [[San Diego/Old Town-Mission Valley|Old Town]] (founded in 1769) up to '''Mission San Francisco Solano''' in the Bay Area town of [[Sonoma]] (founded in 1823). Perhaps the most beautiful of these though, is '''Mission Santa Barbara''', which lent its name to [[Santa Barbara|the same city]] and is rightfully referred to as the "Queen of the Missions". '''El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument''' in downtown [[Los Angeles]] is another historical feature from the Spanish era, although the neighborhood underwent a major transformation during the period of Mexican rule (1821 to 1848) that now gives the area a distinct Mexican atmosphere, particularly along Olvera Street. Spain was not the only European power that colonized California, however. '''[[Fort Ross]]''' in the northern edge of the Bay Area was the southernmost Russian outpost in North America and was in operation from 1812 to 1841. Gold Rush legacies live on in [[Gold Country]], located in the northeastern part of the state. Following the discovery of gold at '''Sutter's Mill''' in [[Coloma (California)|Coloma]] in 1848, hundreds of thousands of fortune seekers from around the world made their way to California, establishing dozens of towns, most of which still retain their Old West charm and atmosphere. '''Old Sacramento''' in the [[Sacramento|state's capital city]] also sprung up as the commercial and transportation center of this era, with places of interest including the first terminus of the '''First Transcontinental Railroad''' and related California Railroad Museum. '''Cannery Row''' and much of the rest of [[Monterey (California)|Monterey]] provide a glimpse of the state's once lucrative fishing and canning industry during the first half of the 20th century, with carefully preserved wooden buildings that housed factory workers and engines, along with rustic (and still active) piers. ===Motion picture sets=== Countless [[fiction tourism|films and television series]] have been set in California. Much of the production is made within the 30-mile (50-km) studio zone around Los Angeles, but sceneries across the whole state are famous from the movies. Some franchises with their own itineraries are ''[[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]]'', ''[[Easy Rider]]'', ''[[Fast and Furious tourism|Fast and Furious]]'', ''[[Forrest Gump tour|Forrest Gump]]'', ''[[Kill Bill tourism|Kill Bill]]'' and ''[[Terminator tourism|The Terminator]]''. ===Itineraries=== *[[El Camino Real]] (The Royal Road) &mdash; a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of Alta California (modern day state of California) offering a fascinating look into California's history *[[Pacific Coast Highway]] &mdash; tour up and down the iconic California coast, along [[Big Sur]], all the way up to its end where it merges into the US 101, which goes up to Washington state. ==Do== [[File:Hollywood sign 053004.jpg|thumb|[[Hollywood]]]] * '''Ski''' at one of the great resorts near [[Lake Tahoe]] or [[Big Bear Lake|Big Bear]]. * Try your hand at '''surfing''' or work on your tan in [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]] or [[Santa Monica]]. * The long coastline offers some great [[Scuba diving in California|California scuba diving]]. * Go '''winetasting''' at one of the countless vineyards dotting [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. * Climb a mountain and camp in the [[Sierra Nevada]] or [[Shasta Cascades]]. * See California's amazing wildflowers. From March through May, the [https://theodorepayne.org/ California Wildflower Hotline] at +1 818 768-3533 offers the latest information on the best places to view wildflowers throughout Southern and Central California. The hotline and website are updated every Thursday evening. More than 90 wildflower sites are included. The hotline, founded in 1983, is run by the Theodore Payne Foundation for Wild Flowers and Native Plants. * Listen to music at the '''[http://www.northerncaliforniabluesfest.com Northern California Blues Festival]{{Dead link|date=October 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. The fastest growing festival of its kind comes in June to Sacramento County around Father's day each year and usually features a spectacular line-up of Blues artists. Event benefits Through the Mind, a non-profit providing free alternative mental health to America's Veterans. * Visit one of the many '''theme parks''', such as [[Disneyland]] or [[Six Flags Magic Mountain]]. ==Buy== {{see also|Shopping in the United States}} Usually US dollars and common credit or debit cards are the only accepted modes of payment. Many stores can take contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. You might have some luck with Mexican pesos near the immediate border area, but the exchange rates are usually terrible. California stores no longer give out free plastic bags, except for fresh grocery produce and meats. Reusable plastic bags cost a minimum of ten cents (by state law). Many stores sell cloth bags for one or two dollars. The state sales tax is 7.25%. However, counties and cities are allowed to levy their own sales taxes on top. In most areas you visit, the actual sales tax will be around 8% or 9%. In certain parts of the counties of Alameda and Los Angeles, actual sales tax is over 10%. In California, sales tax is levied on sales of nearly all tangible personal property. The main exceptions are regular groceries (including cold food-to-go) and prescription drugs. Hot prepared food is also usually taxed, with the exception of hot baked goods sold to go as standalone items. The state does not refund sales tax to travelers. The quintessential California souvenir depends a lot on which part of the state you visited, and what your interests are. The agricultural products change from citrus and avocadoes down south to strawberries in the middle, to almonds and wine as you move north. In LA, you might take home chocolates from See's Candies; in the Central Coast, keep an eye open for locally produced saltwater taffy; in the Bay Area, it's all about Ghirardelli Chocolate. Common themes for souvenir items include surfing, tie-dyed clothing, and redwood trees. ==Eat== {{See also|American cuisine|Fast food in the United States and Canada}} California doesn't have a single, well-defined cuisine of its own, but rather has a remarkably diverse food scene defined by its large population of immigrants of varied ethnic backgrounds and its access to one of the most productive agricultural regions on this side of the planet. The culinary style referred to as ''Californian cuisine'' or ''California fusion'' focuses on imaginative fusions of other cuisines, typically with heavy attention to presentation and an emphasis on using freshly prepared local ingredients, and has been somewhat subsumed into the general trend of "New American" cuisine. Even diners and small mom-and-pop fast food grills have elements of fusion cuisine, as it is common in California for them to serve both burgers and Mexican food. Californians take fresh food for granted. Most food you will eat in California was harvested within 300 miles (480 km) of your plate, with the exception of certain cereals and tropical crops. California is the leading global source of tree nuts (almonds, pistachios, walnuts) and also leads North America in the production of dairy products and many kinds of fruits and vegetables. Out-of-season crops are usually imported from South America, especially Chile and Brazil. With such a bounty for restaurants to draw upon, almost any dish you can imagine can be found somewhere in California. The cuisines of the Americas and Asia are heavily represented, and those of nearly every other country are also available to a lesser extent. More "North American" fare includes everything from burger shacks to vegetarian, organic and even completely vegan restaurants; the Californian love for food has made it one of the most diverse restaurant scenes in North America. The large cities have the most variety, while things get simpler and more meat-heavy as you get more rural. There are a handful of distinctive California dishes, although most of them have been adopted and adapted throughout the US. * Cobb salad – a cold salad of bacon or ham, chicken, boiled eggs, avocado, tomato, lettuce, and bleu cheese, with a vinaigrette dressing. Traditionally it's chopped fairly fine, but in modern times it's served in a variety of ways, and sometimes with ranch dressing instead of the traditional vinaigrette. It was invented at the Brown Derby restaurant in LA. * French dip sandwich – invented somewhere in LA, the exact location is subject to dispute, but it's a warm sandwich of thinly sliced roast beef on a roll that's dipped into beef broth. * Cioppino – a seafood stew developed by Italian immigrants in San Francisco, it resembles various Italian fish stews but includes local ingredients like chopped Dungeness crab. * The Mission Burrito – a San Francisco tradition characterized mainly by its great size and caloric content, featuring copious amounts of beans and rice in addition to cheese, meat and/or vegetables. * California Burrito – a San Diego specialty, it's a carne asada (spicy grilled steak) burrito, stuffed with french fries. * Santa Maria Barbeque – This is a central coast tradition. It's a bottom sirloin beef roast (the cut is locally known as tri-tip), where the fat hasn't been trimmed. It's suspended high above a hot oak fire, fat side up, so it cooks slowly and the fat melts and tenderizes the meat. It's usually served thinly sliced with tortillas or bread, salsa, onions, avocado, and other side dishes. *Chop Suey – the original "American Chinese" dish was popularized as cheap food for laborers during the California gold rush. While it's increasingly hard to find, many other American Chinese dishes were first created in San Francisco's Chinatown. Larger cities in California have some restaurants selling American Chinese food and others selling traditional Chinese dishes. In smaller cities, the Americanized version may be the only option on the menu. As a general rule, plain water is free at any restaurant. However, if you need a disposable cup, the cup will cost you 25 cents (by state law). You are allowed to bring your own reusable water cup or bottle. ===Regional chains=== California's classic burger chain '''In-N-Out''' has expanded to states as far east as [[Texas]]—see [[Fast food in the United States and Canada]] for more. Outside of fast food, California chains that you'll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere include: * {{eat | name=Ike's | alt= | url=https://www.ikessandwich.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-06-22 | content=Casual sandwich joint with more than 50 locations, mostly in California though a few are in Nevada. The menu varies by location, but in general about half the menu has meat and half is vegetarian; many vegetarian options can be made vegan. The sandwiches are filling and flavorful but not excessively heavy. }} *{{listing | name=Farmer Boys | alt= | url=https://www.farmerboys.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5435711 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=A farm-to-table restaurant chain featuring a burger shack menu that is freshly cooked from local produce. Hamburgers, sandwiches, and salads, plus diner-style breakfast options served all day. }} *{{listing | name=Lemonade | alt= | url=https://lemonadela.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=locations are mostly in Southern California, plus two in San Francisco | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$15 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=Poke bowls, chef bowls, sandwiches, and 10 different types of freshly made lemonade. This is California fusion food without the high-end budget. Take your friend who's always bored with the same-ol' stuff. Don't neglect the side dishes. Vegan options. }} ==Drink== Generally, alcohol is available in more places in California than it is in other states. A person with valid ID of age can purchase alcohol at supermarkets or liquor stores; these are regulated by the state but not owned or controlled by them. All but the smallest communities have restaurants or bars that sell beer. Some places are permitted to have a bar in one part of their establishment, and six-packs of beer for sale and offsite consumption in another part. California is known for its fine [[wine]]s and gourmet beers. As of March 2026, there are 154 established American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) across the state of California, which is the highest number of any state. [[Napa Valley|Napa]], [[Sonoma Valley|Sonoma]] and [[Mendocino County|Mendocino]] are premier wine districts north of San Francisco, but there are others in the Central Coast region ([[Paso Robles]], [[Solvang]]) and even down near [[Temecula]] where suitable microclimates have been found. The inland Central Valley region (especially near [[Lodi (California)|Lodi]]) has hotter summers and traditionally produced inexpensive bulk wines, but quality has been improving with winemaking innovations. For beer, California also has a lot of microbreweries. Sierra Nevada, in [[Chico (California)|Chico]], is one of the biggest microbreweries in North America. In the [[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] the mid-sized brewery Firestone Walker in Paso Robles is a good addition to the local wineries in the area; [[Ventura]] has had several microbreweries over the years. In [[San Diego]], Stone Brewing Company offers a great variety of beers that can be purchased throughout the state. Los Angeles has several microbreweries, especially in the Arts District. There are over 200 microbreweries in California, and many bars in large- and mid-size cities that have 20 or more beers (often both foreign and domestic and ranging from light beer to flavored stouts) on tap. In addition to microbreweries, there are a handful of distilleries in California; one even makes date vodka. === Legal issues === Californians tend to view wine as a natural accompaniment of food or socializing, overlooking its alcoholic content more easily than with distilled spirits. However police crackdowns on drinking and driving are noticeable, with roadblocks and random checks. Conviction for driving with a blood alcohol level over .08 percent is likely to bring serious legal and financial consequences. Drivers with a lower blood alcohol can still be convicted for '''DUI''' (driving under the influence) if they fail field sobriety tests, such as walking a straight line. You must be 21 years of age to buy or drink any alcoholic beverage. Underage drinking is taken very seriously, so if you want a drink and appear to be under 30, you should be ready to present identification showing your age. The only acceptable proof-of-age documents are [[passports]] from any country, and identity documents issued by US government agencies (e.g., drivers' licenses issued by any US state). Foreign drivers' licenses and foreign identity cards are ''not'' legally acceptable as proof-of-age documentation, and people who are unable to produce a passport or valid United States ID will be refused service. Only original identity documents will be accepted; photographs or photocopies will not be accepted. ==Stay healthy== ===Air pollution=== While [[air pollution]] levels have dropped dramatically since the 1970s, more than ninety percent of Californians live in counties with unhealthy air. Visitors to the mountains or the rural regions of Northern California will have nothing to worry about, but the overreliance on cars, low rainfall, and surrounding mountains in Los Angeles, the Central Valley, and the Bay Area create some of America's worst air quality. It gets particularly bad when a layer of cold air gets "trapped" by a layer of warmer air above it ("inversion") which is particularly likely in basins. While air quality is rarely at levels that would be considered immediately dangerous, visitors should heed alerts and be especially cautious when any local wildfires are burning. Occasionally, there will be an '''advisory''' issued for air stagnation, which is a phenomenon involving an air mass that cannot move and therefore stagnates over an area for an extensive period of time. Air pollutants can cause breathing difficulties for those with existing respiratory conditions. If you have a respiratory condition, refer to the '''[https://airquality.weather.gov/ National Weather Service]''' website on air quality to see if any such advisories have been issued for the areas you might visit. ===Disease=== [[File:MOUSE, CALIFORNIA (peromyscus californicus) (5-29-09) cerro alto campground road, slo co, ca -01 (3577515146).jpg|alt=California deermouse|thumb|This cute, large-eared mouse and its tan-colored siblings can carry a deadly virus.]] Deer mice can transmit a virus that causes '''hantaviral pulmonary syndrome'''. You are most likely to get infected if you breathe in dust containing their excrement (feces, urine, and saliva). Realistically, however, hantavirus is of very little concern to the traveler, as only a few people get infected each year, and most of them are exposed on the job, but sensible precautions should be applied. Do '''not''' venture in any wild animal's den or touch deer mice or their excrement. If you need to clean up after rodents, wear waterproof gloves, eye protection, and a high-quality respirator mask, and use disinfectants and wet-mopping techniques, rather than brooms and vacuums (both of which spread virus-laden dust). If you do get infected, treatment usually involves a week or two in the hospital. The main defense against the virus is prevention. ==Stay safe== [[File:Elephant seals fighting.jpg|thumb|Elephant seals fighting, [[San Simeon]]]] ===California–Mexico border=== Due to California's proximity to the international boundary with Mexico, visitors should be cautious while in areas near the border. * Beware Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) checkpoints and patrols. CBP is legally allowed to stop you or your vehicle solely in order to inquire about your citizenship and residency status within 100 miles (160 km) of any international border (in this instance, the US–Mexico border). ''Non-whites, and especially Latinos, should expect to be profiled, targeted, and harassed by these government agents.'' *Know where you are at all times. Follow good safety procedures and use common sense when making decisions. * Do not pick up [[Hitchhiking|hitchhikers]]. If the person is undocumented or carrying drugs, you could be mistaken for a trafficker. * Keep valuables, including spare change, out of sight and lock your vehicle. * Avoid traveling in well-marked but unofficial "trails." * Avoid hiking or camping in areas of major border activity. If you are visiting a national or state park, consult park staff to help plan backcountry travel in safer areas. ====Crossing the border==== Thousands of U.S citizens visit the state of [[Baja California (state)|Baja California, Mexico]] from California every year, with the majority of travelers returning from an enjoyable experience. However, a minority of travelers do experience difficulties and serious inconveniences while traveling to Mexico. Before traveling to Mexico, ensure that you have the proper documentation and are familiar with the recommendations for foreign travel from the '''[https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Mexico.html U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs]''' There are six border crossings between California and Mexico: two between San Diego and [[Tijuana]], one between [[Tecate]] and Tecate, two between [[Calexico]] and [[Mexicali]], and one between Andrade and [[Los Algodones]]. The United States operates a consulate-general in Tijuana and a consulate in Mexicali. Mexico operates Consulates in Calexico, Fresno, Los Angeles, Oxnard, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose and Santa Ana. ===Crime=== The usual inner city crime can be found in the worst parts of [[Los Angeles]], [[San Francisco]], and [[Oakland]]. Central Valley cities, such as [[Sacramento]], [[Stockton (California)|Stockton]], and [[Fresno]] also have gang problems. Northern coastal cities such as [[Eureka]] have an ongoing problem with significant drug activity and property crimes. However, most California cities are safe. As long as you take basic precautions against petty crime, such as keeping your phone and other valuables out of sight in tourist areas, and stay out of obviously run-down neighborhoods, you will probably have a safe and pleasant visit. If you are traveling along the '''Pacific Coast Highway''' or '''Highway 101''', you may notice there are a substantial number of hitch-hikers along the way. Most are harmless youthful travelers or people who just need to get somewhere for lack of other means, while others may be a bit less safe to pick up. Use your best judgement, and, unless you feel confident in the people to whom you're giving a ride, it's probably better not to offer one while you're travelling alone. '''Drugs''' are illegal in California, with the noted exception of '''[[cannabis|marijuana]]'''. Adults 21 and over are allowed to possess, use, and cultivate small amounts of marijuana, so long as it is not consumed in public or possessed on the grounds of a school or day care center. The maximum amount a person may possess is one ounce of marijuana or 8 grams of concentrates. Some dispensaries sell marijuana products to the general public, although others remain restricted to those who have a medical marijuana recommendation from a doctor. Delivery services are also available. Marijuana is still illegal under federal law, so do not carry marijuana across state lines—even to another state where it is legal—as this will be considered drug trafficking and subject to harsh punishment. Also, do not take marijuana onto federal land, including any of the dozens of national parks and national forests in California, or onto flights even within California, as the TSA is a federal agency. If you find yourself in an emergency situation (of any kind), dial '''9-1-1''' on your phone or from any (available) phone. It is a free call from a payphone. ===Earthquakes=== {{Infobox|Earthquake early warnings|Since 2019, California has rolled out an earthquake early warning system called [https://www.shakealert.org/ '''ShakeAlert'''], whose alerts can be received by most smartphones. There are [https://earthquake.ca.gov/get-alerts/ '''various methods'''] that mobile devices can receive alerts for ''imminent'' shaking: * '''Wireless Emergency Alerts''' (WEAs) are sent to capable mobile devices with cellular reception that have ''not'' opted out from receiving emergency alerts. They will appear as an urgent notification with brief instructions to safety coupled with an attention-grabbing sound. * '''Earthquake early warning mobile apps''' can push live notifications to devices when the warning system detects an occurring quake. Such apps typically require enabling '''active location services''' to determine if the device is located inside the area of possible impact. The United States Geological Survey provides [https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/how-do-i-sign-shakealertr-earthquake-early-warning-system '''information about apps for iOS and Android that utilize the ShakeAlert system.'''] * '''Many newer Android devices''' can receive earthquake alerts natively without needing to download an app. This system also requires '''enabling location services''' to determine if it's located in the impacted zone. These alerts will appear either as a notification bar for weak quakes or a full-screen alert for strong quakes with instructions to '''drop, cover, and hold'''. Wireless Emergency Alerts are sent for earthquake events exceeding magnitude 5.0 ''and'' in areas expected to receive shaking intensity of light (Mercalli intensity IV) or greater. For Android alerts, expect to receive them for events exceeding magnitude 4.5 ''and'' in areas where weak shaking (Mercalli intensity III) or stronger is expected. Mobile apps may provide options to customize the threshold of intensity to receive an alert. Warning times are limited to '''seconds''' before the arrival of shaking, and will vary depending on the distance from the epicenter. If you are located at or near the epicenter, you may receive an alert ''during or after'' shaking arrives! Warning times tend to improve the further you are from the epicenter – up to tens of seconds of warning even at a far distance.}} [[Earthquakes]] that are large enough to cause extensive damage are rare, but remain a matter of reality for the state. Most earthquakes are mild and last for a couple of seconds. You're not likely to encounter one during your trip, but if you do, you'll probably go home with nothing more exciting than a story about it being over before you figured out that it was an earthquake. When you feel the shaking, act quickly to '''drop, cover, and hold on'''. The biggest dangers in an earthquake are falling objects (such as books or bottles flying off shelves – or the whole shelf with all of its contents, if it's not properly mounted) and windows, which may shatter explosively. In the event of an earthquake, '''face away from windows''' and '''hide under any sturdy table or desk''' – and then hold on to that table, because the shaking could cause the table to slide across the floor. Contrary to popular belief, do not stand in a door frame; these are structurally weaker spots in modern buildings, and they provide no protection against falling objects. If you are indoors, '''do not run outside!''' Falling building facades are more likely to cause severe injuries than anything inside. If outdoors, stay away from buildings (especially brick chimneys, which may spray bricks around a large area), and stay out from under power lines. If you are driving, your first thought will probably be that something is wrong with your car. Immediately slow down and then stop at the nearest safe place. When the shaking is over (the ground ''and'' your nerves), it's okay to start driving again, but drive cautiously, as traffic signals will likely be out, the road surface may be cracked, other drivers may be panicking, and there may be trees or damaged vehicles blocking the road ahead. ===Deserts=== Along the southern most border of California-Nevada, as well as the border of California-Arizona, California has elaborate desert landscapes which extend into the south central regions of the state, the most famous (or infamous) being the region known as [[Death Valley]], where several tourists and hikers have indeed met their fate while exploring the region. If you are planning on traveling or hiking into these locations, '''follow desert survival guidelines'''. Be sure to take plenty of water (at least one gallon/four litres per person, per day), sunscreen and wear light clothing. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Be sure to have a full tank of gasoline prior to traveling by car into these regions, as many desert locations are extremely remote and without any services for several miles (in some cases nearly 100 miles / 160 km). To break down in these regions could be extremely unpleasant in the best case scenario, tragic in the worst. Also, it is best to hike during the earlier part of the day, as thunderstorms tend to develop suddenly during the afternoon. In the event you encounter inclement weather conditions, seek high ground immediately! Thunderstorms can cause flash flooding in canyons and other low-lying areas. ===Tsunamis=== The incidence of earthquakes in California raises the concern for potential threats of tsunamis. Though tsunamis occur very rarely, a great deal of California's coastline is in a tsunami zone. For more information on the state's hazard assessment, visit the '''[https://nctr.pmel.noaa.gov/state/wa/index.html NOAA Center for Tsunami Research]''' website. ===Wildfires=== [[Wildfires]] are common between May and October, but can also occur at other times. Precautions include the following: clear the area around campfires in campgrounds, never leave flames unattended (even artificial ones), do not throw cigarette ends out of a car, and avoid unnecessary weapon use in dry areas.<!-- My understanding of laws in California is that the latter is illegal anyway. --> The strongest impact from fires is smoke. Smoke affects areas dramatically exceeding the size of the root fire. Travelers with respiratory issues should consult visitor information sites before visiting areas where fires are occurring, or anywhere in the path of the smoke, which can spread across large portions of the state during the worst wildfires. ===Mudslides=== Fire season is followed by the rainy season, and hilly areas where the vegetation has burned are particularly vulnerable to destructive and sometimes deadly mudslides. Heed any evacuation warnings that are issued. ===Wild animals=== '''[[Bears]]''' are found in the Sierra Nevada and all neighboring parts of the state. They're rarely dangerous, but should never be approached. If you are camping, you need to ensure that food, food waste, and other scented items such as soap and toothpaste are secure from them. '''[[Mountain lions]]''' are rarely seen, but live in all mountainous parts of the state and once in a while attack humans. If you see one, yell and wave your arms to make yourself appear as large as possible. '''Coyotes''' are quite common, even in relatively populated areas like the Hollywood Hills. They pose little danger to humans, but will attack dogs, cats and other domestic animals. Many animals, most notoriously bats, can carry rabies. When hiking, watch for [[ticks]], which can carry Lyme disease, and [[rattlesnakes]]. California is home to 2 potentially deadly species of spiders - the black widow and the brown recluse - if you don't go poking around abandoned structures and woodpiles, you're very unlikely to encounter them. If you're bitten by any animal, seek immediate medical attention. Shark attacks have happened once in a great while at California beaches, and deadly sharks such as great whites do roam the California coast, but unless a shark has been repeatedly sighted by a specific beach (the local media will broadcast warnings) this is an extremely remote possibility. ===Poisonous plants and mushrooms=== '''[[Poison oak]]''' can be found almost anywhere in the state, but is particularly common in Southern California, the Central Coast, the Bay Area, and any Coast Redwood woodlands. It's toxic throughout the year, even during the winter when it's lost its leaves. Sensitivity varies by individual, but many people can end up with a very nasty, blistering rash by contacting it. See the linked article for treatment options. California is also home to several '''lethal''' varieties of '''mushrooms''', which can be particularly dangerous to would-be gatherers because some of them resemble edible varieties found elsewhere in the world. Even if you're an expert on mushroom varieties where you live, don't assume you're safe gathering them in California. The poisonous oleander plant is native to California, and the ''Ricinus'' aka castor bean plant, which is the source of ricin and castor oil, is common there. ==Respect== California is filled with a very diverse group of people. Northern and Southern California have notably different cultures, while the rural areas in the Central Valley and Eastern portions of the state differ even more significantly. Sensitive topics include immigration, water rights, and land-use. Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area are especially well known for being some of the most politically liberal areas in the US, and continue to serve as some of the world's major centers of counterculture. Conversely, parts of California, particularly the Central Valley and most areas north of Sacramento, are conservative. However, don't assume any individual's political leaning based on where they live. * California's delicate ecosystem demands our utmost care. Conserving water, adhering to fire safety guidelines, and respecting wildlife habitats are fundamental. * Staying informed about the state's water crisis and adopting water-saving habits is crucial for preserving this precious resource. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== Many countries have consulates in and around [[Los Angeles#Consulates|Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco#Consulates|San Francisco]], with a much smaller number in [[San Bernardino#Consulates|San Bernardino]], [[San Diego#Consulates|San Diego]], and [[Sacramento#Consulates|Sacramento]]. In addition to the above, Mexico has consulates in Calexico, Oxnard, San Jose, Santa Ana, and Fresno. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are only available in the country's language. Some websites are available only in another language. ==See also== The following are additional Wikivoyage articles regarding the history and itineraries for travel within California. The articles also list places of historical or natural significance along the way: {{See also|North America itineraries}} * '''[[El Camino Real]]''' (''The Royal Road'') is a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of California. Stretching over 600 miles (1000 km) from San Diego in the south to Sonoma in the north, the route traverses much of the state and has been a popular traveler itinerary for California motorists for nearly a century. :* The '''[[Pacific Coast Highway]]''' is officially California State Route 1 (CA-1) is one of California's slower state routes, closely following the coastline, which in many places is dominated by cliffs and mountains. The alternatives, including '''[[U.S._Highway_101#California|US-101]]''' and '''[[Interstate 5#California|Interstate 5]]''' (with CA-1 sometimes concurrent with US-101), are for those who want to travel more quickly, while CA-1 is the best route for sightseeing California's beautiful coast. El Camino Real lines is best accessed from US Highway 101 and the Pacific Highway (CA-1) between San Diego and Sonoma. * '''[[Arroyo del Valle Trail]]''' is south of the city of Livermore, which is in the Bay Area region of California. The Arroyo Del Valle trail is part of a longer trail network that extends from Livermore, California, through the Diablo Range to Fremont, California at Mission Peak Regional Park. It's about 30 mi (48 km) in all and later parts of the trail network are quite remote, but the part described in this article is used by the general public more frequently than the rest of the hike due to its proximity to the cities of the Tri-Valley. * '''[[East Shore Trail]]''' goes from the northern staging area to the southeast staging area at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore, California. It is approximately 7 miles (11 km) long, with optional extensions at each end. * The '''[[Fiction tourism|Fictional tourism article]]''' aims at locations around the world famous from literature, motion pictures, television series, video games, comic books and other media. Numerous movies and television shows, such as [[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]], [[Terminator tourism|Terminator]], [[Cocoa Beach#Lori Wilson Park|I Dream of Jeannie]], [[Studio City#Brady Residence|Brady Bunch]], etc. have been filmed in Southern California which also served as a backdrop for many of these same films. [[Universal Studios Hollywood|Universal Studios]] even have a theme park to allow the public to get an up close tour of their production studios. * The '''[[Iron Horse Regional Trail]]''' is a biking and walking trail in the East Bay. Formerly a railroad for transporting fruit and grain, it's now a 32-mile (51-kilometer) paved "rail trail" through Concord, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Danville, San Ramon, Dublin, and Pleasanton. * The '''[[Ohlone Wilderness Trail]]''' is a hiking route in the East Bay. It goes from Livermore to Fremont in California across numerous mountain ranges and canyons, and is by no means an easy hike. * California has several dozen state parks that focus on historic locations. The '''[[Olompali–Petaluma–Sonoma historic parks]]''' just north of the San Francisco Bay have significant connections to the rancho era of Mexican Republic. This itinerary will take you through these three state historic parks in a day trip from the Bay area. Each is near a different city in California Wine Country. * The '''[[San Francisco Crosstown Trail]]''' crosses [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco]] from its northwestern edge at Lands End to its southeastern corner at Candlestick Point. Designed by a group of local volunteers, the route connects various hiking paths in local parks with sidewalks and staircases in residential neighborhoods to create a continuous 17-mile (27-km) trail. See also the [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco article]] for a list of in-city itineraries. ==Go next== * '''[[Arizona]]''' – Home to the [[Grand Canyon]], Arizona borders California to the southeast across the Colorado River. * '''[[Nevada]]''' – California's eastern neighbor is best known as the home of [[Las Vegas]], although towns such as [[Reno]] and [[Carson City]] are also good day-trip opportunities for visitors wanting to explore the Silver State. * '''[[Oregon]]''' – Sharing a border to the north, Oregon is home to impressive mountains and extensive forests. * '''[[Hawaii]]''' – Many visitors to America's fiftieth state depart through California on their journey across the Pacific, but it is not a neighboring state and requires a 5-hour flight to get there. * '''[[Baja California]]''' – Those traveling across the border to [[Mexico]] can visit some of that country's most impressive sea and landscapes. [[Tijuana]], [[Ensenada]] and [[Mexicali]] are also good day-trip options for visitors staying in Southern California to explore another country without going to far. {{usableregion}} {{isPartOf|United States}} {{geo|37|-119.5|zoom=6}} {{related|Off-road_vehicles_in_California}} {{related|California_desert_camping}} hopnss8qbg5cgvys53r0ypxswphezfo 5288914 5288913 2026-06-06T17:17:08Z Anyone150 1516949 /* Itineraries */ 5288914 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Antelope Valley banner.jpg|caption=California Poppy Preserve in the Antelope Valley}} One of the most diverse states in the [[United States of America|Union]], '''California''' has a culture ranging from the easygoing surf spots on the beaches of [[Southern California]] to the glamor of [[Hollywood]], and the counterculture and thriving businesses of the [[Bay Area]]. The state, which is on the [[West Coast (United States)|west coast of the U.S.]], also varies greatly in natural beauty, from redwood forests on the [[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] to the ski resorts of the rugged [[Sierra Nevada]] mountains and the harsh desert of [[Death Valley]]. The largest state in the U.S. by population and the third largest by area, California boasts world-famous attractions and sights: [[Disneyland]], the [[Golden Gate Bridge]], the [[Napa Valley]] wine country, and the tallest mountain in the [[United States of America#Geography|contiguous United States]], [[Mount Whitney]]. Granted statehood in 1850 following the California Gold Rush, it bears the nickname "the '''Golden State'''", and the sites of the former goldfields are known as the [[Gold Country]]. ==Regions== California is geographically varied, ranging from warm beaches to snowy mountains to fertile farmland to extreme desert. In the middle of the state is the farmland of the Central Valley, which provides produce to the whole country. The conventional wisdom is that there is a huge difference—and also rivalry—between the Southern California area around Los Angeles (or as Californians often say, “LA”) and Northern California centered around the San Francisco Bay Area. There is also a cultural clash between the large liberal coastal cities, and more conservative parts of the state such as Orange County, the Central Valley, and the far northeast part of the state. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Ca-regions.png | regionmapsize=480px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] | region1color=#b2b24d | region1description=Home to the world's tallest trees, the coast redwoods, as well as rugged coastlines and remote nature adventures. | region2name=[[Shasta Cascades]] | region2color=#c375a0 | region2description=Lakes and mountains off the beaten path in the state's northeast corner. | region3name=[[Sacramento Valley]] | region3color=#5bc7c0 | region3description=Home of [[Sacramento]], the state capital, and the urban areas around the city. | region4name=[[Gold Country]] | region4color=#d2d20d | region4description=Historic foothills leading east to the Sierras; the 1848 discovery of gold in this region brought many Americans to California and helped California become a state less than five years after the territory had been acquired. | region5name=[[Sierra Nevada]] | region5color=#5ea54a | region5description=California's alpine and skiing region, including [[Yosemite National Park]] and [[Lake Tahoe]]. | region6name=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]] | region6color=#d06666 | region6description=Home to the cities of [[San Francisco]], [[Oakland]], and [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]], as well as the technology-centered [[Silicon Valley]] and sophisticated [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. | region7name=[[San Joaquin Valley]] | region7color=#a0a0c0 | region7description=Breadbasket of California and home to a large percentage of America's fruit and vegetable supply. | region8name=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] | region8color=#5fb388 | region8description=An isolated stretch of land that features cool mountains and a rugged coastline. | region9name=[[Southern California]] | region9color=#ac663d | region9description=Home to the metropolis of [[Los Angeles]], as well as [[San Diego]], [[Disneyland]], [[Hollywood]], and miles of famous beaches. | region10name=[[Desert (California)|Desert]] | region10color=#d5a90b | region10description=Palm trees, Joshua trees, blazing sun, ghost towns and quirky resorts. Miles of [[Route 66]]. Home of [[Death Valley National Park|Death Valley]] and [[Joshua Tree National Park]]s. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b2b24d|title=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]]|wikidata=Q156186,Q109651,Q108087,Q156361}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c375a0|title=[[Shasta Cascades]]|wikidata=Q156374,Q156188,Q156350,Q109695,Q156340,Q109705,Q156342,Q156181}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5bc7c0|title=[[Sacramento Valley]]|wikidata=Q271601,Q271609,Q156377,Q196014,Q109709,Q108131}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d2d20d|title=[[Gold Country]]|wikidata=Q156370,Q109681,Q156353,Q156177,Q108093,Q271613,Q156346,Q156191}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5ea54a|title=[[Sierra Nevada]]|wikidata=Q108077,Q156366}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d06666|title=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]]|wikidata=Q108117,Q108067,Q108137,Q108083,Q108058,Q107146,Q62,Q108101,Q108122,Q110739}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a0a0c0|title=[[San Joaquin Valley]]|wikidata=Q108499,Q108503,Q109690,Q109661,Q271915,Q156358,Q109686,Q108047}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5fb388|title=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]]|wikidata=Q108072,Q109656,Q49014,Q108106,Q108127}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#ac663d|title=[[Southern California]] and [[Desert (California)|Desert]]|wikidata=Q104994,Q5925,Q108143,Q169952,Q108111,Q108053,Q109670}} ==Cities== [[File:San Francisco with approaching fog.jpg|thumb|400px|San Francisco, partly enshrouded in fog]] {{mapframe}} Here are a few of California's most notable cities, listed from north to south. <!--Please note: This is just a sampler of the cities most visited, with some geographic spread. If you want to add a new city, please locate the correct sub-region article that your city resides in and add the city there instead. --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Eureka]]|url=|lat=40.801944|long=-124.163611|wikidata=Q488702}} – former logging town with charming Victorian city center, waterfront trails, and Redwood Sky Walk featuring the world's tallest tree species. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Redding]]|url=|lat=40.576667|long=-122.370278|wikidata=Q495361}} – Sundial Bridge and gateway to a plethora of outdoor adventures ranging from underground caverns to some of the highest volcanic peaks in the United States. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Sacramento]]|url=|lat=38.555556|long=-121.468889|wikidata=Q18013}} – the laid-back state capital with historic Gold Rush-era quarter of the city, Old Sacramento. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Francisco]]|url=|lat=37.7857 |long=-122.4061 |wikidata=Q62}} – Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, America's largest Chinatown, cable cars, and Victorian houses. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Jose (California)|San Jose]]|url=|lat=37.333333|long=-121.9|wikidata=Q16553}} – south of San Francisco, this city is the center of Silicon Valley, and is home to many technology companies and the (in)famous Winchester Mystery House. *{{marker|type=city| name=[[Santa Barbara]] | lat=34.421 | long=-119.698| wikidata=Q159288}} – city on a south-facing coast which styles itself, with some justification, as "the American Riviera." *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Los Angeles]]|url=|lat=34.05|long=-118.25|wikidata=Q65}} – the state's largest city, and 2nd-largest in the nation. L.A. is home to Hollywood, Venice, The Getty Center, and Griffith Park. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Palm Springs]]|url=|lat=33.830278|long=-116.545278|wikidata=Q488004}} – desert recreation with golf, spas, resorts, casinos, and the famous aerial tramway. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Diego]]|url=| lat=32.7157 | long=-117.1547 ||wikidata=Q16552}} – Balboa Park, Old Town, SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, and nearby Tijuana, Mexico. ==Other destinations== [[File:4076-joshua-tree RJ.JPG|thumb|[[Joshua Tree National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Big Sur]]|lat=36.27028|long=-121.80750|wikidata=Q859413}} can be loosely defined as the stretch of coastline between Carmel and San Simeon, and the steep cliffs, rocky coast, churning waves, abundant wildlife, redwoods, and remoteness make it a stunningly beautiful drive. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Death Valley|Death Valley National Park]]|lat=36.45|long=-117.09|wikidata=Q242111}} – a place of legend and a place of trial. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Disneyland]]|lat=33.8091|long=-117.9190|wikidata=Q1229066}} – this world-famous amusement park opened its doors in 1955 and today draws around 16 million yearly visitors. The California Adventure theme park was added in 2001 and provides attractions inspired by the state's scenery and movie industry. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Joshua Tree National Park]]|lat=33.86|long=-115.89|wikidata=Q735202}} – combines two different desert ecosystems anchored by the peculiar-looking namesake tree species. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Tahoe]]|lat=39.091667|long=-120.041667|wikidata=Q169962}} – a deep blue mountain lake, popular for water sports in the summer and skiing in the winter. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Napa Valley]]|lat=38.50|long=-122.32|wikidata=Q1151105}} – the premier wine region of the United States, with spas, wine tasting and wine tours; the historic heart of [[California Wine Country]]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]|lat=36.56472|long=-118.77337}} – these twin parks hold monuments to nature's size, beauty, and diversity, including the largest tree on Earth, the General Sherman Tree. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Yosemite National Park]]|lat=37.7333|long=-119.5500|wikidata=Q180402}} – one of the first wilderness parks in the United States, the site of natural wonders such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and numerous waterfalls. California also has [[California state parks|many state parks]], approximately half of which are near urban centers. This is in addition to the state's eight [[United States national parks#California|national parks]] found across the state. ==Understand== [[File:Mission Santa Clara.jpg|thumb|Mission [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]]]] ===History=== {{see also|Indigenous cultures of North America|Old West}} Human settlement in California goes back 50,000 years; California was home to 30 different tribal groups prior to the arrival of European explorers in the 1500s and now over 120 tribes are left. The first Europeans to discover what is now California were the Spanish and Portuguese. Spanish colonialism was established through '''[[El Camino Real|twenty-one missions]]''' built throughout California by the late 1700s. These missions still survive today, stretching from [[San Diego]] on the Mexican border to [[Sonoma]] in the northern San Francisco Bay Area. After the Mexican War for Independence in 1821, California became a part of [[Mexico]] for 25 years until 1846, when many of its residents declared a sovereign nation (the '''California Republic''', also called the ''Bear Flag Republic'') before it was annexed by the United States in 1846, and has since then had an image as the "land of opportunity" and the final destination of luck-seekers. The 1848 discovery of gold in the Sierra Nevada mountains kicked off the '''California Gold Rush''', and California's non-native population surged from 15,000 to over 300,000 within two years. People who moved to California during the Gold rush were often called "49ers", a term that was adopted as the name for the San Francisco [[American Football|football]] team. California became a state in 1850, and its population has increased steadily since then. [[Los Angeles]], a city which once boasted one of the longest streetcar networks in the world, boomed through defense contractors and later converted to a "freeway" city after the streetcars were dismantled. The city hosted Olympic Games twice (1932 & 1984) at times when the Olympic movement was in crisis and the games were largely seen as successes for the city as well as the Olympic movement. [[Post-war United States|In the post-war years]], California (especially the [[Bay Area]]) became a hotspot of counterculture, including popular music, the anti-war movement, and the LGBT community. Since the late 20th century, the state and in particular, the Bay Area, has been at the forefront of the Digital Revolution, with innovations such as personal computers and smartphones having been introduced through '''Silicon Valley'''. Today California is the most populous state in the US with over 38 million residents. Taken by itself, California would rank as one of the world's top ten economies and Californian places like Silicon Valley, Hollywood and San Francisco are known globally and have shaped not only American but world culture. Politically, California is seen as a solidly "blue" state: it has a two-thirds majority of Democrats in both chambers of the legislature and often provides the Democratic party with particularly left-wing ideas, especially on social issues. That said, the state actually contains a lot of political diversity, with conservative views prevalent in much of the state outside the densely populated Bay Area and Los Angeles County, particularly in the fertile but relatively sparsely populated [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. ===Landscape=== [[File:Giant sequoias in Sequoia National Park 2013.jpg|thumb|Sequoia National Park]] With over 160,000 square miles (411,000 km²), the landscape of California is vast and varied, and the stereotypical beach paradise is only the tip of the iceberg. The state contains extremes in elevation, with [[Mount Whitney]] at 14,505 ft (4,421 m) being the tallest mountain in the [[lower 48]] states, while less than 200 miles (320 km) away [[Death Valley]], at 282 ft (82 m) below sea level, is North America's lowest point. California's border to the west is made up of a rugged coastline along the Pacific Ocean. The coastal mountains rise up from the ocean and are home to redwood trees in their northern half. Moving eastward, the Central Valley bisects California from north-to-south, before giving way to the Sierra Nevada mountains, which are home to [[Yosemite National Park]], [[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]], and other natural wonders. The southeastern part of California is dominated by desert, which covers 25% of California's total area. The [[Mojave Desert|Mojave]] is a high desert, with elevations ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 ft (1,000 to 2,000 m) above sea level. This area receives less than six inches (152 mm) of rain each year. ===Climate=== [[File:Surfers At Steamer Lane Santa Cruz CA. - panoramio.jpg|alt=Surfers on the water|thumb|Wetsuits were invented in Santa Cruz because the ocean is so cold.]] The state's climate varies from subtropical at the coast to the brutal winters of the mountains to one of the world's hottest regions in the deserts. Rainfall is more common in the northern part of the state than in the south, and snow is rare except in the mountains. Most precipitation occurs during winter, but California experiences frequent droughts. This has prompted people to install drought-resistant landscaping. In some years, farms lie fallow due to lack of water for irrigation. The hottest temperature ever recorded in the Western Hemisphere, 134°F (56.6°C) was at Death Valley in 1913, and temperatures here regularly exceed 120°F (50°C) during the summer. In contrast, winter temperatures in the mountains can drop below 0°F (-20°C). In between these extremes there are great local variations in climate due to topography and the influence of the Pacific Ocean upon precipitation and temperature, with temperatures becoming increasingly moderated nearer the coastline. For swimming, the Pacific Ocean can be surprisingly cold even in July due to currents. September and October are the best months for swimming. Another surprise in coastal areas is the presence of cool temperatures and fog in the mornings through most of the year. To experience California as a sunny place, plan to sleep late. ===People=== California is a very diverse state with many ethnic groups. California has large populations of people of varied backgrounds such as Mexican, Salvadoran, Guatemalan, Armenian, Iranian, Jewish, Chinese, Russian, Filipino, Eastern Indian, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Thai, and Hmong. California also has large populations of African Americans and Native Americans. Although typically considered to be a liberal state, Californians have a wide variety of political views which tend to vary based on region. The Central Valley, [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]], San Diego, and Palm Springs area tend to be more conservative, while [[Los Angeles County]] and the [[Bay Area|San Francisco Bay Area]] are among the most progressive areas in the country. California is a large and diverse state, with different cultures in each region. ===Holidays=== California observes all the [[Holidays of the United States|federal holidays]], except Columbus Day, and adds Farmworkers Day on March 31st (or nearest weekday). However, some cities such as [[Coronado (California)|Coronado]] that have a large population of federal workers or military personnel do observe Columbus Day. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitcalifornia.com/ Visit California] website ==Talk== [[File:Golden Hour at Emerald Bay.jpg|thumb|Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe]] Although the California Constitution states that '''English''' is the official language of the state of California, in reality, California is a multilingual state. American English is the main language and '''[[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]''' is the ''de facto'' second language, and a knowledge of even rudimentary Spanish is useful in most cities from Sacramento to San Diego. Los Angeles has some of the largest Hispanic populations north of Mexico. The state is highly influenced by Spanish culture due to its history, and it is not uncommon to see store and street signs written in both English and Spanish. "Spanglish" (a mixture of English and Spanish) is often used and heard throughout the state. Even people with no Latino heritage whatsoever sometimes speak fluent Spanish or use common Spanish-derived expressions when speaking English. Most government offices and tourist attractions, as well as many businesses in California have at least a few employees who are bilingual in English and Spanish. In fact, some restaurants may have a workforce that is more fluent in Spanish than English. Due to a history of Asian immigration and influence, Asian languages such as Cantonese, Mandarin, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, and Hindi are also spoken among Asian Californian populations. The major cities also tend to have communities of essentially any ethnicity imaginable, and there is a good chance you can hear their language and have an opportunity to experience their cultures. San Francisco, for example, is home to a significant French community, while Los Angeles boasts quite a large Ethiopian neighborhood. ==Get in== [[File:Skyscraper Los Angeles Downtown 2013.jpg|thumb|Skyscrapers in Downtown L.A.]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Flying in the United States}} [[San Francisco International Airport]] ({{IATA|SFO}}) and [[Los Angeles International Airport]] ({{IATA|LAX}}) are the most popular entry points with a wide variety of flights from [[Europe]], [[East Asia]], [[India]], [[Oceania]] ([[Australia]], [[Fiji]], [[New Zealand]], [[Tahiti]], etc.), [[Latin America]] and from various cities in the U.S. on a variety of U.S. and foreign flag carriers. To a lesser extent there are also direct flights from the [[Middle East]] ([[Israel]], [[Qatar]], [[Saudi Arabia]], [[Turkey]] and the [[United Arab Emriates]]) to Los Angeles. They are however also the most crowded and the SFO-LAX route is one of the busiest air corridors in the world causing frequent delays due to congestion. Delays at San Francisco airport due to fog are also somewhat common. If coming from within the U.S. and from Mexico there are other alternate airports in California that are less crowded and may be closer to your final destination. They are: :* Los Angeles area – [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Hollywood-Burbank Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]] (closest to Hollywood and Downtown Los Angeles), [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa_Ana_(California)|Orange County]] (closest to Disneyland & Knott's Berry Farm), [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario International Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}) in Ontario (closest to Joshua Tree and the Inland Empire deserts), and [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach Airport] ({{IATA|LGB}}) in [[Long Beach]]. :* San Francisco Bay Area – [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport] ({{IATA|OAK}}) in Oakland (closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose Airport] ({{IATA|SJC}}) in San Jose (closest to Silicon Valley), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] ({{IATA|STS}}) in [[Santa Rosa (California)|Santa Rosa]] (closest to Wine Country). Both San Francisco and Oakland airports are now connected to the local metro network, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a bus route 10 to the 'Santa Clara Station'. :* [[San Diego International Airport]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) in San Diego :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento Airport]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) in Sacramento :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno Airport]] ({{IATA|RNO}}) in [[Reno]], Nevada is closer to [[Lake Tahoe]] than from Sacramento. :* [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno Airport] ({{IATA|FAT}}) in Fresno, closest to Yosemite NP and the major airport in the [[San Joaquin Valley]]. :* Palm Springs ({{IATA|PSP}}) :* Central Coast – Monterey ({{IATA|MRY}}) (closest to Big Sur), San Luis Obispo ({{IATA|SBP}}) (closest to Hearst Castle), and Santa Barbara ({{IATA|SBA}}). :* [[Harry_Reid_International_Airport|Las Vegas]] ({{IATA|LAS}}), Nevada is closer to Death Valley NP than from Los Angeles or Ontario. :* [[Tijuana#By plane|Tijuana Airport]] ({{IATA|TIJ}}) in Tijuana. If coming from Mexico it may be more advantageous to fly to Tijuana on a (Mexican) domestic flight and then cross into San Diego by ground transportation or through its second terminal (CBX) on the American side of the border than on an international flight to San Diego, Los Angeles, or other cities further north. From San Diego, you can continue north to the San Francisco Bay area, Las Vegas, [[Phoenix]] or wherever in the U.S. you are continuing to. See [[California#By plane 2|By plane]] under the "Get Around" section for more information. ===By train=== {{see also|Rail travel in the United States}} [[Amtrak]] serves several routes into and out of California. If you are going to Los Angeles from the Central Valley, you might have to change to a bus for the last part of the trip, as the only railway connection between the Central Valley and Los Angeles is also one of the busiest freight lines in the United States. Plans to build a new [[high speed rail]] line to link San Francisco and Los Angeles are underway, but completion is not scheduled before the late 2020s. The following Amtrak routes serve California and terminate in [[Los Angeles#By train|Los Angeles]] or [[Emeryville]]: * The ''[[California Zephyr]]'' runs daily between [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] and [[Emeryville]] with connections in [[Omaha]], [[Denver]], [[Provo]], [[Salt Lake City]] and [[Reno|Reno/Lake Tahoe]]. This train also stops in the Sierra Nevada (Truckee and Colfax) and the Sacramento Valley (Roseville, [[Sacramento]], Davies and Martinez). Emeryville is the nearest Amtrak station to downtown San Francisco where passengers transfer to the Amtrak Thruway bus to continue across the bay to San Francisco. * The ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' runs daily between Los Angeles and [[Seattle#By train|Seattle]] via [[Portland (Oregon)#By train|Portland]], [[Klamath Falls]], [[Redding]], [[Bay Area (California)|San Francisco Bay Area]], Santa Barbara, [[San Luis Obispo]] and [[Oxnard]]. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/southwest-chief-train.html Southwest Chief]'' runs daily from [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] via [[Kansas City]], [[Albuquerque]], [[Flagstaff]], Williams Junction (nearest stop to the [[Grand Canyon]]) and [[Kingman]] to Los Angeles. It also makes stops in the Mojave Desert ([[Needles]], [[Barstow]] and [[Victorville]]); the [[Inland Empire]] ([[Riverside]] and [[San Bernardino]]) and Orange County ([[Fullerton]]) and on its way into Los Angeles. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/sunset-limited-train.html Sunset Limited]'' runs three times a week from [[New Orleans]] via [[Houston]], [[San Antonio]], [[El Paso]], [[Tucson]] and [[Yuma]]. Additionally, Amtrak's ''[http://www.texaseagle.com/ Texas Eagle]'' service between San Antonio and Chicago incorporates the Sunset Limited to provide a direct connection to Los Angeles with the same stops as the Sunset Limited between San Antonio and Los Angeles. This train also stops in the Inland Empire ([[Pomona]], Ontario and Palm Springs). Train services are limited to two token lines with hardly any real transport value in Mexico and there are ''no'' passenger rail service to anywhere near the U.S./Mexican border from anywhere in Mexico. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to California. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''By bus'' under ''Get around'' in the below for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By car=== All major road entrances (including entrances from other U.S. States) to California have agricultural inspection stations to ensure that some fruits and vegetables do not cross into a region where they may come into contact with the farms in the [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. Often, travelers are subject to border inspection (somewhat strict for domestic travel) and asked if they have been on a farm or are carrying organic matter with them. ==Get around== California is the third largest state of the U.S. by area (after [[Alaska]] and [[Texas]]). It compares in size with [[Sweden]]. However, getting around California can be simple. ===By car=== [[File:California State Route 1 in Marin County.jpg|California State Route 1|thumb|right|250px]] [[File:405 southbound near Getty Museum.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Interstate 405 in Los Angeles]] In addition to interstates and US highways, California has one of the most expansive state highway systems in the United States. As with all long-distance trips in the United States, a car is generally the best way to get around and see destinations, especially rural ones. However the trip from the northern end of California to the southern end can take well over ten hours as the state's varied and in places rugged terrain can pose obstacles to the road network. The coast routes (State Route 1 and U.S. 101) are much slower and windier than Interstate 5, and GPS travel estimate times may be inaccurate, especially on Highway 1. Most California drivers are courteous and careful (although speeding is rampant), and the safety and ease of driving in California is comparable to most wealthy countries. Exceptions may be found in the most congested areas of San Francisco and Los Angeles &mdash; where potholes, road rage and reckless driving are commonplace &mdash; and some country roads in mountain ranges. Information about vehicle collisions and other non-congestion traffic problems on highways are reported online at [https://www.chp.ca.gov/traffic chp.ca.gov/traffic]. Traffic congestion is tracked by most online map sites. Gasoline prices are more expensive than in other parts of the U.S.; consider public transit in highly populated areas such as the Bay Area where prices are especially high. ====Freeway signage (and cautions)==== California uses the MUTCD (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices) lane marking system standard throughout the United States, in which dashed white lines divide lanes of through traffic and yellow divides opposing traffic (with single dashed indicating passing and double solid indicating no passing). In many urban areas the lane markings are replaced by Botts dots for additional tactile feedback when crossing lanes. The network of freeways in major population centers is often confusing and intimidating to those unfamiliar with the area, so having a good map is very helpful. The great majority of exits from freeways are on the right. At interchanges between freeways, in most cases, the flow of traffic continues through the left lanes with the transition to the other freeway being in the right lanes. At some freeway interchanges, Caltrans (California Dept. of Transportation) is notorious for posting advance direction signs that do not correctly explain which lanes correspond to which ramps. Additionally, Caltrans does not always post signs warning of upcoming lane drops or merges. For example, where a freeway has three through lanes and the central lane splits into two lanes, thus resulting in two ramps with two lanes each, the advance signage may incorrectly imply that only the right lane will break off for the upcoming right-side ramp, thus causing visitors driving in the middle lane to merge unnecessarily into the right lane. And the two lanes on the right-side ramp may suddenly merge into each other without any warning. These issues frequently result in visitors making wild last-minute lane merges. Approach major freeway interchanges in California with caution. Mile-based exit numbering is in progress but is still very erratic in areas; an exit number may not be marked at all, may be marked on the last directional sign before the exit, or may be marked on the final "Exit" sign where the exit ramp separates. ====Ramp meters==== In urban areas, the access ramps to a freeway may have traffic lights for each lane (called ramp meters or ramp metering lights; you'll see warning signs that read "meter on"). During high-traffic times, the traffic light spaces out the vehicles attempting to merge onto the freeway. Be sure to read the sign below the light as ramps can allow 1 to 3 vehicles per green light. Most ramp meters are for ramps from local roads to a freeway, but some freeway junctions have meters on their ramps too. ====Toll roads and bridges==== Most highways are freely accessible and toll-free. However, California has some toll bridges, toll roads, and tolled Express Lanes. Toll road and bridges are indicated on road signs. When a toll-free road flows directly into a toll road or bridge, there is sometimes a sign for "last exit before toll". FasTrak electronic toll collection (ETC) via toll transponders or tags is used for all toll facilities. Cash is no longer accepted. FasTrak is not compatible with any other state's ETC system. Some California toll authorities also allow online pay-by-plate, but if no signage mentions it, assume it is unavailable. If you drive a vehicle through a toll gantry without an active FasTrak account and the toll authority has no pay by plate option, you may receive an expensive ticket for nonpayment of toll. In Northern California, all major bridges in the San Francisco Bay Area have toll plazas, with tolls charged on traffic in only one direction. The plazas are unmanned and will be replaced with gantries for open-road tolling, but for now, drivers must slow to 20 mph to pass through them. Southern California has several toll roads in Orange County which use open-road tolling. "Express Lanes" are high-occupancy (HOV) lanes (carpool lanes) that non-high-occupancy vehicles can often use by paying a toll. Electronic signs will indicate whether the Express Lane is "open to all" (no toll is charged) or "HOV only" (only HOVs eligible for toll-free access may use the lane). If the signs show a price in dollars and cents, it means that non-HOV vehicles may use the Express Lane but will be charged that toll. During times of severe traffic congestion, Express Lanes may charge tolls of $20 or more per vehicle. HOVs are supposed to be exempt from tolls in Express Lanes. Some Express Lane operators require all HOVs to carry FasTrak Flex transponders to signal their toll-free status. If you are legally using a free carpool lane and a sign warns it will turn into a tolled Express Lane, you must merge immediately back into regular lanes if you do not have FasTrak Flex. ====HOV/carpool lanes==== Some freeways have a high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane on the far left. This lane, also called the carpool lane or diamond lane, is marked by: * a diamond symbol painted on the road surface * signage on the wall separating the two sides of the freeway, with the diamond symbol * a double yellow line on the road surface (only in Southern California) Some freeway access ramps have carpool lanes too; often, the non-carpool lanes will have ramp meter traffic lights while the carpool lane has none. In most cases, the carpool lane is only for vehicles with 2 or more persons inside, motorcycles, and clean-air vehicles with [https://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/carpool/carpool.htm government-issued "Access OK" stickers]. Sometimes, 3 or more persons and/or a FasTrak transponder may be required, so check the signage before entering a carpool lane. Carpool lane restrictions may be enforced 24 hours a day every day, or only when the signage says so (in those cases, it's usually only during rush hour on weekdays). Carpool lanes in Southern California have limited access points marked by a dashed white line. This is the only point at which a vehicle may legally enter or exit a carpool lane, since you are not allowed to cross a double yellow line. The minimum fine for unlawful use of a carpool lane is $490. ====Traffic safety and law enforcement==== All persons in a moving vehicle are required to wear a seatbelt and the driver and all passengers can be individually ticketed for failing to do so. Motorcycle riders must wear a helmet. Cellphone users are required to use a hands-free headset if talking on the phone while driving. Texting by the driver is illegal, as is any action on the phone that forces the driver to touch it more than once (and even single-touch actions are only allowed if the phone is mounted securely rather than hand-held). Unless otherwise signed, right-turns are permitted at red lights following a full stop. If it is raining hard enough to require you to use your windshield wipers, California law requires that your headlights be turned on. Most California police officers carry radar guns to catch speeding drivers. The California Highway Patrol occasionally flies aircraft overhead to spot speeders and help ground units home in on their positions. Red light enforcement cameras are in use at many urban intersections, but are marked only by a single "photo enforced" sign before the intersection. Speed enforcement cameras are being piloted in a few cities, including San Francisco and Los Angeles; the cameras are small and hard to spot. California's laws against driving under the influence of alcohol are very strict; the maximum permissible blood alcohol concentration is 0.08%. All drivers are strongly encouraged to call 911 to report drunk drivers. California requires disabled out-of-state visitors to apply at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for a travel placard for handicapped parking. It is valid for 90 days. Travelers with a non-US driver's license are generally permitted to drive in California. However, travelers who are in California for more than 10 days with some kinds of visas, especially the K-1 non-immigrant visa for future spouses, have run into some difficulties over their place of residence. The DMV refuses to issue drivers' licenses to people with non-immigrant visas, but police have filed charges against some of them for becoming a California resident without promptly obtaining a California license – the very license that the State refuses to issue on the grounds that they haven't legally become residents yet. This risk may be reduced by giving your non-California address as your place of legal residence if stopped by police. Unlike most states, "lane-splitting" by motorcyclists (i.e. riding down the painted lines between traffic lanes) is legal in California and commonly done in heavy traffic. It's only legal when traffic is going slower than 30 mph, and motorcyclists are only allowed to go 15 mph faster than the general flow of traffic, but many motorcyclists seem to treat this as more of a guideline than a hard and fast rule. As a result, if you're driving a car, take extra care to watch for motorcycles when changing lanes on a major highway. ====Major highways==== [[File:California State Route 1 All American Road sign.jpg|150px|thumb|right|A California State Highway sign. The poppy sign below it indicates that it is a state scenic route]] Here are some important highways in California: * [[File:I-5.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 5]]:''' Runs between San Diego, Los Angeles, and Sacramento, then north into Oregon and Washington. :*[[File:California 99.svg|22px]] '''State Route 99:''' Runs along the California Central Valley between Red Bluff, Sacramento, Stockton, Modesto, Fresno and Bakersfield as the Golden State Freeway. * [[File:I-8.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 8:''' Runs between San Diego, Calexico, Yumma, and Casa Grande, Arizona. * [[File:I-10.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10]]:''' Runs between Santa Monica, Los Angeles, the Inland Empire and Palm Springs, then over the Colorado River into Arizona and points east. * [[File:I-15.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 15:''' Runs between San Diego, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Las Vegas, Nevada and points north. * [[File:I-40.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 40:''' Runs between Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona, towards Oklahoma City and points east. Interstate 40 bypasses or replaces the old Route 66 between Barstow and Oklahoma City (as County Rd 66 in San Bernardino County). :* [[File:US_66_(historic).svg|22px]] '''[[Route 66|Historic Route 66]]:''' Now decommissioned, historically connected Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona and points east. It runs alongside I-40 between Barstow and Oklahoma City and alongside or concurrent with I-15 between Barstow and San Bernardino. * [[File:I-80.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 80:''' Runs between the Bay Area, Sacramento, Reno, Nevada, and points east * [[File:I-405.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 405:''' Runs {{mile|72}} between Northridge and Irvine via Van Nuys, LAX, Culver City, Long Beach, Santa Ana, and point in between as an auxiliary by-pass of I-5 through the Los Angeles Area. * [[File:I-580.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 580:''' Connects the San Francisco Bay Area with Interstate 5 in the Central Valley * [[File:US 50.svg|22px]]'''U.S. Highway 50:''' Runs between Sacramento, South Lake Tahoe, Carson City, Nevada, and points east * [[File:US 101.svg|22px]] '''U.S. Highway 101:''' Runs between Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, then close to the California Coast to the San Francisco Bay, Eureka and points north :* [[File:California 1.svg|22px]] '''[[Pacific Coast Highway|State Route 1]]:''' Runs up the California Coast between Orange County, Los Angeles, Monterey, the Bay Area, and [[Fort Bragg]] * [[File:US 395.svg|22px]] '''U.S. Highway 395:''' Runs along the Eastern Sierras, connecting the Inland Empire and High Desert with Bishop, Reno, and Susanville, then into Oregon and points north ====Taxis and rideshares==== Taxis and rideshare services (Uber and Lyft) are widely available in and around California's largest cities: San Francisco, Los Angeles (including Orange County), San Diego, and Sacramento. They are less likely to be available in small towns and rural areas. ====Robotaxis==== Waymo operates a robotaxi service with self-driving vehicles in two service areas: one on the San Francisco Peninsula from San Francisco to downtown San Jose, and another in the western part of Los Angeles south of the Santa Monica Mountains, from downtown Los Angeles to Santa Monica and as far south as Inglewood. However, Waymo does not yet have authorization to provide service to Los Angeles International Airport. Only San Jose International Airport allows Waymo unrestricted access to pick up and drop off passengers. Waymo is now able to drive on freeways, and it can also pick up and drop off at San Francisco International Airport, but only at the Rental Car Center (10 minutes to the terminals via AirTrain tram). Both features are subject to wait lists, making them less useful to new users. ===By plane=== [[File:LAX LA.jpg|Los Angeles International Airport|250px|thumb|right]] Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state. [https://www.aa.com American/American Eagle]; [https://www.united.com/ United/United Express]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.delta.com Delta], [https://www.southwest.com Southwest], [https://www.jetblue.com JetBlue], [http://www.jsx.com Jet Suite X (JSX)], [https://www.spirit.com Spirit] and [https://www.alaskaair.com Alaska Airlines] offer intrastate flights within the state of California. San Francisco is a hub for United and Alaska; while Los Angeles is a hub for United, American/American Eagle, Delta, JetBlue and Alaska Airlines. The LAX-SFO route is one of the busiest in America which means competitive fares and delays are frequent which is only made worse by the fog that tends to hit San Francisco bay on a regular basis. In addition, the airlines offer flights from different airports in [[Southern California#By plane|southern California]] in the south; to the [[Bay_Area_(California)#By plane|SF Bay area]] and to Sacramento in the north at competitive rates. A route between lesser-known airports (say, Burbank to Oakland) may save you money and avoid airport chaos compared to LAX-SFO. The primary airports served by major US carriers, Volaris (from Mexico) and Aeromexico (from Mexico) in California are in: :* Los Angeles area – [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles International]] ({{IATA|LAX}}), [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Burbank-Hollywood Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]], [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa Ana_(California)|Orange County]]; [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}), and a small airport in [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach] ({{IATA|LGB}}) :* San Francisco Bay Area – [[San Francisco International Airport|San Francisco]] ({{IATA|SFO}}), [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay] ({{IATA|OAK}}), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose] ({{IATA|SJC}}), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] (Charles M. Schulz Airport) ({{IATA|STS}}) in Santa Rosa; both San Francisco and Oakland airport are now connected to the metro, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a free shuttle at the 'Santa Clara Station'. Oakland is closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO is and offers a fog-free alternative. :* [[San Diego#By plane|San Diego]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno]] ({{IATA|RNO}}), Nevada closer to the Lake Tahoe area than Sacramento The busiest second tier airports are [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno] ({{IATA|FAT}}) (nearest to Yosemite NP); [https://flysba.santabarbaraca.gov/ Santa Barbara] ({{IATA|SBA}}); and [https://flypsp.com/ Palm Springs] ({{IATA|PSP}}). There are also flights from major hubs to [[Arcata]]/McKinleyville (nearest to Eureka), Bakersfield, Crescent City, El Centro, Mammoth Lakes, Merced, Monterey, Redding, San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, and Stockton. ===By train=== The state's various rail services provide a cheap and reasonably comfortable way to see and get around much of the state [[USA without a car|without a car]]. '''[[Amtrak]]''' operates a few long-distance routes through and out of California, as well as the three Amtrak California routes: :* San Luis Obispo-Santa Barbara-Los Angeles-Anahiem-San Diego on the ''[https://www.pacificsurfliner.com/ Pacific Surfliner]'' :* Oakland/Sacramento-Stockton-Fresno-Bakersfield on the ''[https://goldrunner.com/ Gold Runner]'' (which has a connecting Thruway bus service to Los Angeles) :* San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Auburn on the ''[https://www.capitolcorridor.org/ Capitol Corridor]'' :* Los Angeles-Santa Barbara-San Luis Obispo-San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Redding-(continues to Seattle) on the ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' :* Emeryville (San Francisco connection)-Sacramento-Truckee (near Lake Tahoe)-(continues to Chicago) on the ''California Zephyr'' :*Los Angeles-Palm Springs-(continues to Chicago) on the Sunset Limited :*''Amtrak Thruway Motorcoaches'' connects additional cities and towns to/from the Amtrak (train) network by bus such as Santa Cruz-San Jose; San Francisco-Emeryville; Bakersfield-Los Angeles; Bakersfield-Las Vegas; Martinez-Arcata; Redding-Sacramento; etc. Amtrak has seen continuously increasing ridership in most of the US for more than a decade now, and surprisingly enough three of the six most popular Amtrak routes run through California, thus making them a viable alternative to the more often than not congested roads and airports. In addition, there are several commuter and regional services in the state's metro areas: :*''[https://www.caltrain.com/ Caltrain]'' San Francisco-Palo Alto-San Jose-Gilroy through the famous Silicon Valley. :* ''[https://acerail.com/ Altamont Commuter Express]'' San Jose-Stockton through the Altamont Corridor Express. :* ''[https://www.bart.gov/ BART]'' operates in the Bay Area, connecting much of the East Bay (Oakland, Berkeley, Walnut Creek) to San Francisco and SFO. :* ''[https://metrolinktrains.com/ Metrolink]'' runs regional train service throughout the greater Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura County (metropolis) region on multiple routes. :* ''[https://gonctd.com/services/coaster-commuter-rail/ COASTER]'' runs along the coast of San Diego County between downtown San Diego, Carlsbad and Oceanside. :*''[https://gonctd.com/services/sprinter-hybrid-rail/ SPRINTER]'' runs across Northern San Diego County between Escondino and Oceanside with bus and train connections to Los Angeles and San Diego. :*''[https://www.sonomamarintrain.org/ Sonoma-Marin Rail (SMART)]'' runs between Santa Rosa and San Rafael in Marin/Sonoma County (Northern Bay Area) with ferry connections to San Francisco There are also light rail systems in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Jose. Almost all of these systems are being expanded or upgraded to cope with rising ridership, so expect more and better service in years to come. ===By bus=== {{see also|Long-distance bus travel in the United States }} The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There are fairly frequent service from [[Los Angeles#By bus|Los Angeles]] to [[San Francisco#By bus|San Francisco]]/[[San Jose_(California)#By bus|San Jose]]; [[San Diego#By_bus|San Diego]]/[[Tijuana#By_bus|Tijuana]]; [[Las Vegas#By_bus|Las Vegas]]/[[San Bernardino#By_bus|San Bernardino]] and [[Sacramento#By bus|Sacramento]] with on multiple routes with various bus companies. There are other the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns which are not listed, check the article of your destination for all the transportation options. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/california/ here]. * {{listing | name=Eastern Sierra Transit | alt= | url=https://www.estransit.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 760 872-1901 | tollfree=+1 800 922-1930 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Operates 'local' buses along US Hwy 395 corridor between Mammoth Lake, Bishop and Lone Pine in Mono and Inyo Counties in the eastern 'Desert' and the Sierra Nevada parts of the state. They have a route continuing north to Carson City & Reno from Mammoth Lake and south to Lancaster from Lone Pine. The area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway buses }} * {{listing | type=go | name=El Paso Los Angeles Limousine Express | alt= | url=https://www.eplalimo.com/ | email= | address=(downtown LA depot) 622 E 6th St | lat= | long= | directions=SW corner of E 6th St & Wall St across the street from police station | phone=+1 213 623-2323 and +1 323-265-3232 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Travels along I-10 between Los Angeles, [[Indio]], Phoenix, [[Las Cruces]] and El Paso on one route and on I-15 to Las Vegas & North Las Vegas on another route. They have additional stops in E. Los Angeles, El Monte and [[Colton]] on their way on both routes. They also have a second depot at 4425 S Atlantic Blvd in E Los Angeles. }} * {{listing | name=Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.flixbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 626-8585 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-06-14 | content=The German bus company, Flixbus, connects Los Angeles to Las Vegas, Phoenix, Sacramento, SF Bay Area and San Diego via multiple cities en route in Arizona and California. It has grown rapidly through subcontracting its operations, which has the downside for customers that the buses are not of a consistent style or quality. In October 2021 they had merged with Greyhound Lines (see below) but, maintain separate brands. Tickets and schedules with Greyhound and Flixbus can be searched and purchased through each other's websites. }} * {{listing | name=Green Tortoise | alt= | url=https://greentortoise.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 415 956-7500 | tollfree=1 800 867-8647 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates something like a 'hippie' bus that serves as a bus by day with stops to visit different places like a bus tour throughout the day and a RV camper by night in different campgrounds. It offers bus tours and camping trips to Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Death Valley Sequoia and along the coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Some of its tours involve a 3- to 5-day round trip from the point of origin such as from San Francisco to Yosemite NP and back while others are one way where the journey starts from one place and end in the other like from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree and end in Las Vegas. Even with round trips it is possible to ask to be picked up or dropped off in different places than the point of origin/return. Others like its 'Hostel Hoppers' or 'Express' are a straightforward bus ride from point A to B. It is one way to combine 'taking the bus' from one place to another and to visit and see remote places without a private automobile. }} * {{listing | name=Greyhound , Cruceros-USA, Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1 800 231-2222 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Greyhound goes to 100 locations statewide, though these are not all actual stations, some are merely stops. In general, Greyhound serves the same routes that Amtrak does along the main highways. In some cases Greyhound is cheaper, faster, and more frequent than Amtrak. Flixbus tickets can also be searched and purchased on Greyhound's website }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Hoang Express | alt= | url=https://www.xedohoang.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 714 839-3500 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=$60-65 to Bay Area; $80 to Sacramento | content=Travels between SoCal (San Diego, El Monte, Los Angeles, [[Westminster (California)|Westminster]]); Bay Area (San Francisco, San Jose & Oakland) and to Sacramento on another route from Los Angeles. They also offer service from Los Angeles to Arizona (Phoenix, [[Chandler (Arizona)|Chandler]] and [[Tempe]]. }} * {{go | name=International Bus Lines | alt=formerly Intercalifornias | url=https://www.ibuslines.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 629-4885 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination | content=Connects Tijuana, San Ysidro (just over the border), Santa Ana, Los Angeles, San Fernando, Bakersfield, Fresno, and San Jose/[[Stockton (California)|Stockton]] (route splits/joins in Madero) and several other places in between. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=LuxBus | alt= | url=https://www.luxbusamerica.com/ | email= | address=on request for hotel pick up/drop off | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-877-610-7870 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Operates to/from [[Las Vegas]], [[Anaheim]], and [[San Diego]]. }} * {{listing | name=Mendocino Transit Authority (MTA) | alt= | url=https://mendocinotransit.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Travels extensively in the North Coast region along Hwy 1 from Ft Bragg to Navarro River Junction (#65), Point Arena (#75), Bodega Bay and Santa Rosa (#95). Another route from Ft Bragg to Willits, Ukiah and Santa Rosa along SR-20 and US Hwy 101 (Rt #65). Much of the area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway Buses off the US Hwy 101 corridor. }} * {{listing | name=Sage Stage | alt= | url=https://sagestage.com/ | email= | address=(bus stops) Rite Aide @ 5th & Main in Alturas | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 530 233-6410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-18 | content=Provides public transportation from Alturas and Canby in Modoc County, in the [[Shasta Cascades]], to [[Redding]]; [[Reno]], NV; and [[Klamath Falls]], OR on three separate routes. }} * {{listing | name=Santa Barbara Airbus | alt= | url=https://www.sbairbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 805 964-7759 | tollfree=+1-800-423-1618 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-08-05 | content=Eight trips a day from [[Los Angeles International Airport|LAX]] to [[Carpinteria]], [[Santa Barbara]] and [[Goleta]]. }} * {{listing | name="Cabin" | alt=formerly Sleep Bus | url=https://www.ridecabin.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-25 | content=Overnight service to the Los Angeles area (Ocean & Arizona Ave in Palisades Park in [[Santa Monica]]) from San Francisco (Bayside Lot @ 1 Bryant St). This is an actual sleeper bus featuring twin size bunk beds with privacy curtains, power outlets, and free wifi. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Tufesa | alt= | url=https://www.gotobus.com/tufesa/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 489-8079 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination |lastedit=2022-11-30| content=Connects Los Angeles to Sacramento (via Bakersfield, Fresno, etc); to Salt Lake City (via Barstow, Las Vegas, St George, etc); to Hermosillo (via Phoenix, Tucson, Nogales); San Francisco Bay Area; and to Tijuana (via Santa Ana, San Diego/San Ysidro). }} * {{listing | name=Yarts | alt= | url=https://yarts.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates regularly scheduled buses from Yosemite NP (Visitors' Center) to Fresno, Merced, Mammoth Lakes & Sonora on four separate routes. }} ===By foot=== *The [[Pacific Crest Trail]] crosses the length of California on its way from [[Mexico]] to [[Canada]] *The [[American Discovery Trail]] connects California with [[Nevada]] and the East Coast. ===By boat=== *Ferry service is limited, but can be a scenic, relaxing, and fun way to travel. Major services exist in the [[Bay Area]], to the [[Channel Islands (California)|Channel Islands]] and to [[Catalina Island]] near Los Angeles. Several of the smaller coastal towns have water taxi services within their city. Check as the stops and limited and the schedules may seasonal. *Many cities are along the coast, or else on navigable waterways, and you can dock your own boat there. == See == [[File:Us-ca-sanfran-goldengate.jpg|thumb|Golden Gate Bridge in [[San Francisco]]]] As the most geographically and culturally diverse state in the U.S., California offers an endless amount of things to see and do; even when you think you've experienced everything in one area of the state, a short trip to another part has plenty more to offer. Incredible and unique scenery, some of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, centuries old historical sites, unending cultural and entertainment options {{snd}}no matter where your interests lie, California will almost certainly offer it. ===Natural attractions=== [[Image:16-yosemite-half-dome.jpg|thumb|Half Dome at [[Yosemite National Park]]]] From white-sand beaches to snowcapped mountains, with lush forests and arid deserts in between, no other state offers such a wide a variety of natural landscapes as California does. California hosts the largest number of [[United States national parks|U.S. national parks]] with a total of nine. The most famous of these is '''[[Yosemite National Park]]''', featuring thundering waterfalls and geological behemoths like El Capitan and Half Dome. The surrounding [[Sierra Nevada]] also hosts nearby '''[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]''' which are both home to some of the world's largest living organisms, the giant sequoia. '''[[Redwood National Park]]''' in the far northwestern corner of the state and the surrounding area feature the world's tallest species of trees, the coast redwood. Tired of forests? The California desert is the site of some of the hottest and most arid places on Earth. '''[[Death Valley National Park]]''' is the location of the highest ever recorded temperature on the planet. If deserts are not your thing, beaches and California are practically synonymous. '''[[Big Sur]]''' and '''[[Point Reyes National Seashore|Point Reyes]]''' are notable examples of a scenic, winding stretch of unspoiled coastline that is typical of Northern California, featuring rocky cliffs and towering redwood trees that meet thundering ocean waves. Further south, the water is much warmer and suitable for all-day beach trips. Here, world-class beach towns such as '''[[Santa Barbara]]''', '''[[Malibu]]''', and those of '''[[Beach Cities|Orange County]]''' offer opportunities to catch waves, practice beach volleyball, or simply lounge around and tan underneath palm trees. If high-altitude adventure is what you are seeking, California has that too. At an elevation of 14,505 feet (4,421 meters) above sea level, '''[[Mount Whitney]]''' is the highest mountain in the lower 48 states. Snow activities such as skiing and snowboarding are plentiful in '''[[Lake Tahoe]]''' in the winter, while hiking and water recreation such as boating are popular in summer. [[File:Silver Lake.jpg|thumb|Silver Lake is in the [[Sierra Nevada|Sierra Nevada Range]] of eastern California]] While the national parks may receive most of the attention, California has the largest [[California state parks|state park system]] in the United States. These protected areas are found in places ranging from being adjacent to national parks to green landscapes in the middle of cities that offer a respite from the hectic urban rush. California's high population and its climate have also led to the creation of numerous [[Reservoirs in California|reservoirs]]. California marine animals (native and migrating) are easily found in the wild along the state's beaches, in lagoons and estuaries, such as sea otters, grey whales, elephant seals, harbor seals, sea lions as well as multitudes of tide pools dwellers including crabs, sea stars, anemone, and sea urchins. Timing is key: go at low tide to see lots of marine life. ===Monuments and architecture=== California has long been a canvas for architects and engineers to design and build some pioneering structures or to popularize styles that would define a time period. With two of the most prominent cities in the United States, [[Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco]], this is certainly notable with many of the structures and buildings that are found there. San Francisco is home to engineering marvels such as the '''Golden Gate Bridge''', Lombard Street (the most crooked street in the world), and cable cars that seemingly glide up and down the hills between the waterfront and rest of downtown. The many skyscrapers such as the Transamerica Pyramid have all been specifically designed to withstand powerful earthquakes. The stately '''Palace of Fine Arts''' and charming Painted Ladies of Alamo Square have served as backdrops countless of times for the city by the Bay. As the epicenter of the global entertainment industry, the '''Hollywood Sign''' is an icon of Los Angeles recognized worldwide. The nearby Hollywood Walk of Fame, Capitol Records Building, and numerous theaters all solidify the city's hold on entertainment. The Griffith Observatory and Walt Disney Concert Hall are also notable features in the cityscape, as is the imposing '''Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum''', the site of the 1932 and 1984 Summer Olympics. Other notable landmarks outside these two cities include the '''California State Capitol''' in [[Sacramento]] (modeled after the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.), labyrinthine '''Winchester Mystery House''' in [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]] with eerie origins, and the lavish '''Hearst Castle''' in the Central Coast town of [[San Simeon]] that anchors the landscape of the surrounding area. ===Historical sites=== From former Native American sites to suburban garages where modern technology was invented, California's centuries-long history is preserved in numerous historical sites and museums that are scattered throughout the state. One of the most comprehensive collections of state history from prehistory to contemporary times is housed in the '''Oakland Museum of California''' in [[Oakland]], with a vast collection of nearly 2 million items related to California history, art, and science. The legacy of Spanish colonial times remains with the string of '''twenty-one missions''' that span the length of much of the state from '''Mission San Diego de Alcalá ''' in the San Diego's [[San Diego/Old Town-Mission Valley|Old Town]] (founded in 1769) up to '''Mission San Francisco Solano''' in the Bay Area town of [[Sonoma]] (founded in 1823). Perhaps the most beautiful of these though, is '''Mission Santa Barbara''', which lent its name to [[Santa Barbara|the same city]] and is rightfully referred to as the "Queen of the Missions". '''El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument''' in downtown [[Los Angeles]] is another historical feature from the Spanish era, although the neighborhood underwent a major transformation during the period of Mexican rule (1821 to 1848) that now gives the area a distinct Mexican atmosphere, particularly along Olvera Street. Spain was not the only European power that colonized California, however. '''[[Fort Ross]]''' in the northern edge of the Bay Area was the southernmost Russian outpost in North America and was in operation from 1812 to 1841. Gold Rush legacies live on in [[Gold Country]], located in the northeastern part of the state. Following the discovery of gold at '''Sutter's Mill''' in [[Coloma (California)|Coloma]] in 1848, hundreds of thousands of fortune seekers from around the world made their way to California, establishing dozens of towns, most of which still retain their Old West charm and atmosphere. '''Old Sacramento''' in the [[Sacramento|state's capital city]] also sprung up as the commercial and transportation center of this era, with places of interest including the first terminus of the '''First Transcontinental Railroad''' and related California Railroad Museum. '''Cannery Row''' and much of the rest of [[Monterey (California)|Monterey]] provide a glimpse of the state's once lucrative fishing and canning industry during the first half of the 20th century, with carefully preserved wooden buildings that housed factory workers and engines, along with rustic (and still active) piers. ===Motion picture sets=== Countless [[fiction tourism|films and television series]] have been set in California. Much of the production is made within the 30-mile (50-km) studio zone around Los Angeles, but sceneries across the whole state are famous from the movies. Some franchises with their own itineraries are ''[[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]]'', ''[[Easy Rider]]'', ''[[Fast and Furious tourism|Fast and Furious]]'', ''[[Forrest Gump tour|Forrest Gump]]'', ''[[Kill Bill tourism|Kill Bill]]'' and ''[[Terminator tourism|The Terminator]]''. ===Itineraries=== *[[El Camino Real]] (The Royal Road) &mdash; a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of Alta California (modern day state of California) offering a fascinating look into California's history. [[U.S. Highway 101]] is also part of this El Camino Highway. *[[Pacific Coast Highway]] &mdash; tour up and down the iconic California coast, along [[Big Sur]], all the way up to its end where it merges into the US 101, which goes up to Washington state. * [[U.S. Highway 395]], [[Interstate 5#California|Interstate 5 & CA-99]], [[Interstate 10]], [[Interstate 80]], and the [[Lincoln Highway]] are major highways through California with their own Wikivoyage article. ==Do== [[File:Hollywood sign 053004.jpg|thumb|[[Hollywood]]]] * '''Ski''' at one of the great resorts near [[Lake Tahoe]] or [[Big Bear Lake|Big Bear]]. * Try your hand at '''surfing''' or work on your tan in [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]] or [[Santa Monica]]. * The long coastline offers some great [[Scuba diving in California|California scuba diving]]. * Go '''winetasting''' at one of the countless vineyards dotting [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. * Climb a mountain and camp in the [[Sierra Nevada]] or [[Shasta Cascades]]. * See California's amazing wildflowers. From March through May, the [https://theodorepayne.org/ California Wildflower Hotline] at +1 818 768-3533 offers the latest information on the best places to view wildflowers throughout Southern and Central California. The hotline and website are updated every Thursday evening. More than 90 wildflower sites are included. The hotline, founded in 1983, is run by the Theodore Payne Foundation for Wild Flowers and Native Plants. * Listen to music at the '''[http://www.northerncaliforniabluesfest.com Northern California Blues Festival]{{Dead link|date=October 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. The fastest growing festival of its kind comes in June to Sacramento County around Father's day each year and usually features a spectacular line-up of Blues artists. Event benefits Through the Mind, a non-profit providing free alternative mental health to America's Veterans. * Visit one of the many '''theme parks''', such as [[Disneyland]] or [[Six Flags Magic Mountain]]. ==Buy== {{see also|Shopping in the United States}} Usually US dollars and common credit or debit cards are the only accepted modes of payment. Many stores can take contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. You might have some luck with Mexican pesos near the immediate border area, but the exchange rates are usually terrible. California stores no longer give out free plastic bags, except for fresh grocery produce and meats. Reusable plastic bags cost a minimum of ten cents (by state law). Many stores sell cloth bags for one or two dollars. The state sales tax is 7.25%. However, counties and cities are allowed to levy their own sales taxes on top. In most areas you visit, the actual sales tax will be around 8% or 9%. In certain parts of the counties of Alameda and Los Angeles, actual sales tax is over 10%. In California, sales tax is levied on sales of nearly all tangible personal property. The main exceptions are regular groceries (including cold food-to-go) and prescription drugs. Hot prepared food is also usually taxed, with the exception of hot baked goods sold to go as standalone items. The state does not refund sales tax to travelers. The quintessential California souvenir depends a lot on which part of the state you visited, and what your interests are. The agricultural products change from citrus and avocadoes down south to strawberries in the middle, to almonds and wine as you move north. In LA, you might take home chocolates from See's Candies; in the Central Coast, keep an eye open for locally produced saltwater taffy; in the Bay Area, it's all about Ghirardelli Chocolate. Common themes for souvenir items include surfing, tie-dyed clothing, and redwood trees. ==Eat== {{See also|American cuisine|Fast food in the United States and Canada}} California doesn't have a single, well-defined cuisine of its own, but rather has a remarkably diverse food scene defined by its large population of immigrants of varied ethnic backgrounds and its access to one of the most productive agricultural regions on this side of the planet. The culinary style referred to as ''Californian cuisine'' or ''California fusion'' focuses on imaginative fusions of other cuisines, typically with heavy attention to presentation and an emphasis on using freshly prepared local ingredients, and has been somewhat subsumed into the general trend of "New American" cuisine. Even diners and small mom-and-pop fast food grills have elements of fusion cuisine, as it is common in California for them to serve both burgers and Mexican food. Californians take fresh food for granted. Most food you will eat in California was harvested within 300 miles (480 km) of your plate, with the exception of certain cereals and tropical crops. California is the leading global source of tree nuts (almonds, pistachios, walnuts) and also leads North America in the production of dairy products and many kinds of fruits and vegetables. Out-of-season crops are usually imported from South America, especially Chile and Brazil. With such a bounty for restaurants to draw upon, almost any dish you can imagine can be found somewhere in California. The cuisines of the Americas and Asia are heavily represented, and those of nearly every other country are also available to a lesser extent. More "North American" fare includes everything from burger shacks to vegetarian, organic and even completely vegan restaurants; the Californian love for food has made it one of the most diverse restaurant scenes in North America. The large cities have the most variety, while things get simpler and more meat-heavy as you get more rural. There are a handful of distinctive California dishes, although most of them have been adopted and adapted throughout the US. * Cobb salad – a cold salad of bacon or ham, chicken, boiled eggs, avocado, tomato, lettuce, and bleu cheese, with a vinaigrette dressing. Traditionally it's chopped fairly fine, but in modern times it's served in a variety of ways, and sometimes with ranch dressing instead of the traditional vinaigrette. It was invented at the Brown Derby restaurant in LA. * French dip sandwich – invented somewhere in LA, the exact location is subject to dispute, but it's a warm sandwich of thinly sliced roast beef on a roll that's dipped into beef broth. * Cioppino – a seafood stew developed by Italian immigrants in San Francisco, it resembles various Italian fish stews but includes local ingredients like chopped Dungeness crab. * The Mission Burrito – a San Francisco tradition characterized mainly by its great size and caloric content, featuring copious amounts of beans and rice in addition to cheese, meat and/or vegetables. * California Burrito – a San Diego specialty, it's a carne asada (spicy grilled steak) burrito, stuffed with french fries. * Santa Maria Barbeque – This is a central coast tradition. It's a bottom sirloin beef roast (the cut is locally known as tri-tip), where the fat hasn't been trimmed. It's suspended high above a hot oak fire, fat side up, so it cooks slowly and the fat melts and tenderizes the meat. It's usually served thinly sliced with tortillas or bread, salsa, onions, avocado, and other side dishes. *Chop Suey – the original "American Chinese" dish was popularized as cheap food for laborers during the California gold rush. While it's increasingly hard to find, many other American Chinese dishes were first created in San Francisco's Chinatown. Larger cities in California have some restaurants selling American Chinese food and others selling traditional Chinese dishes. In smaller cities, the Americanized version may be the only option on the menu. As a general rule, plain water is free at any restaurant. However, if you need a disposable cup, the cup will cost you 25 cents (by state law). You are allowed to bring your own reusable water cup or bottle. ===Regional chains=== California's classic burger chain '''In-N-Out''' has expanded to states as far east as [[Texas]]—see [[Fast food in the United States and Canada]] for more. Outside of fast food, California chains that you'll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere include: * {{eat | name=Ike's | alt= | url=https://www.ikessandwich.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-06-22 | content=Casual sandwich joint with more than 50 locations, mostly in California though a few are in Nevada. The menu varies by location, but in general about half the menu has meat and half is vegetarian; many vegetarian options can be made vegan. The sandwiches are filling and flavorful but not excessively heavy. }} *{{listing | name=Farmer Boys | alt= | url=https://www.farmerboys.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5435711 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=A farm-to-table restaurant chain featuring a burger shack menu that is freshly cooked from local produce. Hamburgers, sandwiches, and salads, plus diner-style breakfast options served all day. }} *{{listing | name=Lemonade | alt= | url=https://lemonadela.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=locations are mostly in Southern California, plus two in San Francisco | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$15 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=Poke bowls, chef bowls, sandwiches, and 10 different types of freshly made lemonade. This is California fusion food without the high-end budget. Take your friend who's always bored with the same-ol' stuff. Don't neglect the side dishes. Vegan options. }} ==Drink== Generally, alcohol is available in more places in California than it is in other states. A person with valid ID of age can purchase alcohol at supermarkets or liquor stores; these are regulated by the state but not owned or controlled by them. All but the smallest communities have restaurants or bars that sell beer. Some places are permitted to have a bar in one part of their establishment, and six-packs of beer for sale and offsite consumption in another part. California is known for its fine [[wine]]s and gourmet beers. As of March 2026, there are 154 established American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) across the state of California, which is the highest number of any state. [[Napa Valley|Napa]], [[Sonoma Valley|Sonoma]] and [[Mendocino County|Mendocino]] are premier wine districts north of San Francisco, but there are others in the Central Coast region ([[Paso Robles]], [[Solvang]]) and even down near [[Temecula]] where suitable microclimates have been found. The inland Central Valley region (especially near [[Lodi (California)|Lodi]]) has hotter summers and traditionally produced inexpensive bulk wines, but quality has been improving with winemaking innovations. For beer, California also has a lot of microbreweries. Sierra Nevada, in [[Chico (California)|Chico]], is one of the biggest microbreweries in North America. In the [[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] the mid-sized brewery Firestone Walker in Paso Robles is a good addition to the local wineries in the area; [[Ventura]] has had several microbreweries over the years. In [[San Diego]], Stone Brewing Company offers a great variety of beers that can be purchased throughout the state. Los Angeles has several microbreweries, especially in the Arts District. There are over 200 microbreweries in California, and many bars in large- and mid-size cities that have 20 or more beers (often both foreign and domestic and ranging from light beer to flavored stouts) on tap. In addition to microbreweries, there are a handful of distilleries in California; one even makes date vodka. === Legal issues === Californians tend to view wine as a natural accompaniment of food or socializing, overlooking its alcoholic content more easily than with distilled spirits. However police crackdowns on drinking and driving are noticeable, with roadblocks and random checks. Conviction for driving with a blood alcohol level over .08 percent is likely to bring serious legal and financial consequences. Drivers with a lower blood alcohol can still be convicted for '''DUI''' (driving under the influence) if they fail field sobriety tests, such as walking a straight line. You must be 21 years of age to buy or drink any alcoholic beverage. Underage drinking is taken very seriously, so if you want a drink and appear to be under 30, you should be ready to present identification showing your age. The only acceptable proof-of-age documents are [[passports]] from any country, and identity documents issued by US government agencies (e.g., drivers' licenses issued by any US state). Foreign drivers' licenses and foreign identity cards are ''not'' legally acceptable as proof-of-age documentation, and people who are unable to produce a passport or valid United States ID will be refused service. Only original identity documents will be accepted; photographs or photocopies will not be accepted. ==Stay healthy== ===Air pollution=== While [[air pollution]] levels have dropped dramatically since the 1970s, more than ninety percent of Californians live in counties with unhealthy air. Visitors to the mountains or the rural regions of Northern California will have nothing to worry about, but the overreliance on cars, low rainfall, and surrounding mountains in Los Angeles, the Central Valley, and the Bay Area create some of America's worst air quality. It gets particularly bad when a layer of cold air gets "trapped" by a layer of warmer air above it ("inversion") which is particularly likely in basins. While air quality is rarely at levels that would be considered immediately dangerous, visitors should heed alerts and be especially cautious when any local wildfires are burning. Occasionally, there will be an '''advisory''' issued for air stagnation, which is a phenomenon involving an air mass that cannot move and therefore stagnates over an area for an extensive period of time. Air pollutants can cause breathing difficulties for those with existing respiratory conditions. If you have a respiratory condition, refer to the '''[https://airquality.weather.gov/ National Weather Service]''' website on air quality to see if any such advisories have been issued for the areas you might visit. ===Disease=== [[File:MOUSE, CALIFORNIA (peromyscus californicus) (5-29-09) cerro alto campground road, slo co, ca -01 (3577515146).jpg|alt=California deermouse|thumb|This cute, large-eared mouse and its tan-colored siblings can carry a deadly virus.]] Deer mice can transmit a virus that causes '''hantaviral pulmonary syndrome'''. You are most likely to get infected if you breathe in dust containing their excrement (feces, urine, and saliva). Realistically, however, hantavirus is of very little concern to the traveler, as only a few people get infected each year, and most of them are exposed on the job, but sensible precautions should be applied. Do '''not''' venture in any wild animal's den or touch deer mice or their excrement. If you need to clean up after rodents, wear waterproof gloves, eye protection, and a high-quality respirator mask, and use disinfectants and wet-mopping techniques, rather than brooms and vacuums (both of which spread virus-laden dust). If you do get infected, treatment usually involves a week or two in the hospital. The main defense against the virus is prevention. ==Stay safe== [[File:Elephant seals fighting.jpg|thumb|Elephant seals fighting, [[San Simeon]]]] ===California–Mexico border=== Due to California's proximity to the international boundary with Mexico, visitors should be cautious while in areas near the border. * Beware Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) checkpoints and patrols. CBP is legally allowed to stop you or your vehicle solely in order to inquire about your citizenship and residency status within 100 miles (160 km) of any international border (in this instance, the US–Mexico border). ''Non-whites, and especially Latinos, should expect to be profiled, targeted, and harassed by these government agents.'' *Know where you are at all times. Follow good safety procedures and use common sense when making decisions. * Do not pick up [[Hitchhiking|hitchhikers]]. If the person is undocumented or carrying drugs, you could be mistaken for a trafficker. * Keep valuables, including spare change, out of sight and lock your vehicle. * Avoid traveling in well-marked but unofficial "trails." * Avoid hiking or camping in areas of major border activity. If you are visiting a national or state park, consult park staff to help plan backcountry travel in safer areas. ====Crossing the border==== Thousands of U.S citizens visit the state of [[Baja California (state)|Baja California, Mexico]] from California every year, with the majority of travelers returning from an enjoyable experience. However, a minority of travelers do experience difficulties and serious inconveniences while traveling to Mexico. Before traveling to Mexico, ensure that you have the proper documentation and are familiar with the recommendations for foreign travel from the '''[https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Mexico.html U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs]''' There are six border crossings between California and Mexico: two between San Diego and [[Tijuana]], one between [[Tecate]] and Tecate, two between [[Calexico]] and [[Mexicali]], and one between Andrade and [[Los Algodones]]. The United States operates a consulate-general in Tijuana and a consulate in Mexicali. Mexico operates Consulates in Calexico, Fresno, Los Angeles, Oxnard, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose and Santa Ana. ===Crime=== The usual inner city crime can be found in the worst parts of [[Los Angeles]], [[San Francisco]], and [[Oakland]]. Central Valley cities, such as [[Sacramento]], [[Stockton (California)|Stockton]], and [[Fresno]] also have gang problems. Northern coastal cities such as [[Eureka]] have an ongoing problem with significant drug activity and property crimes. However, most California cities are safe. As long as you take basic precautions against petty crime, such as keeping your phone and other valuables out of sight in tourist areas, and stay out of obviously run-down neighborhoods, you will probably have a safe and pleasant visit. If you are traveling along the '''Pacific Coast Highway''' or '''Highway 101''', you may notice there are a substantial number of hitch-hikers along the way. Most are harmless youthful travelers or people who just need to get somewhere for lack of other means, while others may be a bit less safe to pick up. Use your best judgement, and, unless you feel confident in the people to whom you're giving a ride, it's probably better not to offer one while you're travelling alone. '''Drugs''' are illegal in California, with the noted exception of '''[[cannabis|marijuana]]'''. Adults 21 and over are allowed to possess, use, and cultivate small amounts of marijuana, so long as it is not consumed in public or possessed on the grounds of a school or day care center. The maximum amount a person may possess is one ounce of marijuana or 8 grams of concentrates. Some dispensaries sell marijuana products to the general public, although others remain restricted to those who have a medical marijuana recommendation from a doctor. Delivery services are also available. Marijuana is still illegal under federal law, so do not carry marijuana across state lines—even to another state where it is legal—as this will be considered drug trafficking and subject to harsh punishment. Also, do not take marijuana onto federal land, including any of the dozens of national parks and national forests in California, or onto flights even within California, as the TSA is a federal agency. If you find yourself in an emergency situation (of any kind), dial '''9-1-1''' on your phone or from any (available) phone. It is a free call from a payphone. ===Earthquakes=== {{Infobox|Earthquake early warnings|Since 2019, California has rolled out an earthquake early warning system called [https://www.shakealert.org/ '''ShakeAlert'''], whose alerts can be received by most smartphones. There are [https://earthquake.ca.gov/get-alerts/ '''various methods'''] that mobile devices can receive alerts for ''imminent'' shaking: * '''Wireless Emergency Alerts''' (WEAs) are sent to capable mobile devices with cellular reception that have ''not'' opted out from receiving emergency alerts. They will appear as an urgent notification with brief instructions to safety coupled with an attention-grabbing sound. * '''Earthquake early warning mobile apps''' can push live notifications to devices when the warning system detects an occurring quake. Such apps typically require enabling '''active location services''' to determine if the device is located inside the area of possible impact. The United States Geological Survey provides [https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/how-do-i-sign-shakealertr-earthquake-early-warning-system '''information about apps for iOS and Android that utilize the ShakeAlert system.'''] * '''Many newer Android devices''' can receive earthquake alerts natively without needing to download an app. This system also requires '''enabling location services''' to determine if it's located in the impacted zone. These alerts will appear either as a notification bar for weak quakes or a full-screen alert for strong quakes with instructions to '''drop, cover, and hold'''. Wireless Emergency Alerts are sent for earthquake events exceeding magnitude 5.0 ''and'' in areas expected to receive shaking intensity of light (Mercalli intensity IV) or greater. For Android alerts, expect to receive them for events exceeding magnitude 4.5 ''and'' in areas where weak shaking (Mercalli intensity III) or stronger is expected. Mobile apps may provide options to customize the threshold of intensity to receive an alert. Warning times are limited to '''seconds''' before the arrival of shaking, and will vary depending on the distance from the epicenter. If you are located at or near the epicenter, you may receive an alert ''during or after'' shaking arrives! Warning times tend to improve the further you are from the epicenter – up to tens of seconds of warning even at a far distance.}} [[Earthquakes]] that are large enough to cause extensive damage are rare, but remain a matter of reality for the state. Most earthquakes are mild and last for a couple of seconds. You're not likely to encounter one during your trip, but if you do, you'll probably go home with nothing more exciting than a story about it being over before you figured out that it was an earthquake. When you feel the shaking, act quickly to '''drop, cover, and hold on'''. The biggest dangers in an earthquake are falling objects (such as books or bottles flying off shelves – or the whole shelf with all of its contents, if it's not properly mounted) and windows, which may shatter explosively. In the event of an earthquake, '''face away from windows''' and '''hide under any sturdy table or desk''' – and then hold on to that table, because the shaking could cause the table to slide across the floor. Contrary to popular belief, do not stand in a door frame; these are structurally weaker spots in modern buildings, and they provide no protection against falling objects. If you are indoors, '''do not run outside!''' Falling building facades are more likely to cause severe injuries than anything inside. If outdoors, stay away from buildings (especially brick chimneys, which may spray bricks around a large area), and stay out from under power lines. If you are driving, your first thought will probably be that something is wrong with your car. Immediately slow down and then stop at the nearest safe place. When the shaking is over (the ground ''and'' your nerves), it's okay to start driving again, but drive cautiously, as traffic signals will likely be out, the road surface may be cracked, other drivers may be panicking, and there may be trees or damaged vehicles blocking the road ahead. ===Deserts=== Along the southern most border of California-Nevada, as well as the border of California-Arizona, California has elaborate desert landscapes which extend into the south central regions of the state, the most famous (or infamous) being the region known as [[Death Valley]], where several tourists and hikers have indeed met their fate while exploring the region. If you are planning on traveling or hiking into these locations, '''follow desert survival guidelines'''. Be sure to take plenty of water (at least one gallon/four litres per person, per day), sunscreen and wear light clothing. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Be sure to have a full tank of gasoline prior to traveling by car into these regions, as many desert locations are extremely remote and without any services for several miles (in some cases nearly 100 miles / 160 km). To break down in these regions could be extremely unpleasant in the best case scenario, tragic in the worst. Also, it is best to hike during the earlier part of the day, as thunderstorms tend to develop suddenly during the afternoon. In the event you encounter inclement weather conditions, seek high ground immediately! Thunderstorms can cause flash flooding in canyons and other low-lying areas. ===Tsunamis=== The incidence of earthquakes in California raises the concern for potential threats of tsunamis. Though tsunamis occur very rarely, a great deal of California's coastline is in a tsunami zone. For more information on the state's hazard assessment, visit the '''[https://nctr.pmel.noaa.gov/state/wa/index.html NOAA Center for Tsunami Research]''' website. ===Wildfires=== [[Wildfires]] are common between May and October, but can also occur at other times. Precautions include the following: clear the area around campfires in campgrounds, never leave flames unattended (even artificial ones), do not throw cigarette ends out of a car, and avoid unnecessary weapon use in dry areas.<!-- My understanding of laws in California is that the latter is illegal anyway. --> The strongest impact from fires is smoke. Smoke affects areas dramatically exceeding the size of the root fire. Travelers with respiratory issues should consult visitor information sites before visiting areas where fires are occurring, or anywhere in the path of the smoke, which can spread across large portions of the state during the worst wildfires. ===Mudslides=== Fire season is followed by the rainy season, and hilly areas where the vegetation has burned are particularly vulnerable to destructive and sometimes deadly mudslides. Heed any evacuation warnings that are issued. ===Wild animals=== '''[[Bears]]''' are found in the Sierra Nevada and all neighboring parts of the state. They're rarely dangerous, but should never be approached. If you are camping, you need to ensure that food, food waste, and other scented items such as soap and toothpaste are secure from them. '''[[Mountain lions]]''' are rarely seen, but live in all mountainous parts of the state and once in a while attack humans. If you see one, yell and wave your arms to make yourself appear as large as possible. '''Coyotes''' are quite common, even in relatively populated areas like the Hollywood Hills. They pose little danger to humans, but will attack dogs, cats and other domestic animals. Many animals, most notoriously bats, can carry rabies. When hiking, watch for [[ticks]], which can carry Lyme disease, and [[rattlesnakes]]. California is home to 2 potentially deadly species of spiders - the black widow and the brown recluse - if you don't go poking around abandoned structures and woodpiles, you're very unlikely to encounter them. If you're bitten by any animal, seek immediate medical attention. Shark attacks have happened once in a great while at California beaches, and deadly sharks such as great whites do roam the California coast, but unless a shark has been repeatedly sighted by a specific beach (the local media will broadcast warnings) this is an extremely remote possibility. ===Poisonous plants and mushrooms=== '''[[Poison oak]]''' can be found almost anywhere in the state, but is particularly common in Southern California, the Central Coast, the Bay Area, and any Coast Redwood woodlands. It's toxic throughout the year, even during the winter when it's lost its leaves. Sensitivity varies by individual, but many people can end up with a very nasty, blistering rash by contacting it. See the linked article for treatment options. California is also home to several '''lethal''' varieties of '''mushrooms''', which can be particularly dangerous to would-be gatherers because some of them resemble edible varieties found elsewhere in the world. Even if you're an expert on mushroom varieties where you live, don't assume you're safe gathering them in California. The poisonous oleander plant is native to California, and the ''Ricinus'' aka castor bean plant, which is the source of ricin and castor oil, is common there. ==Respect== California is filled with a very diverse group of people. Northern and Southern California have notably different cultures, while the rural areas in the Central Valley and Eastern portions of the state differ even more significantly. Sensitive topics include immigration, water rights, and land-use. Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area are especially well known for being some of the most politically liberal areas in the US, and continue to serve as some of the world's major centers of counterculture. Conversely, parts of California, particularly the Central Valley and most areas north of Sacramento, are conservative. However, don't assume any individual's political leaning based on where they live. * California's delicate ecosystem demands our utmost care. Conserving water, adhering to fire safety guidelines, and respecting wildlife habitats are fundamental. * Staying informed about the state's water crisis and adopting water-saving habits is crucial for preserving this precious resource. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== Many countries have consulates in and around [[Los Angeles#Consulates|Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco#Consulates|San Francisco]], with a much smaller number in [[San Bernardino#Consulates|San Bernardino]], [[San Diego#Consulates|San Diego]], and [[Sacramento#Consulates|Sacramento]]. In addition to the above, Mexico has consulates in Calexico, Oxnard, San Jose, Santa Ana, and Fresno. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are only available in the country's language. Some websites are available only in another language. ==See also== The following are additional Wikivoyage articles regarding the history and itineraries for travel within California. The articles also list places of historical or natural significance along the way: {{See also|North America itineraries}} * '''[[El Camino Real]]''' (''The Royal Road'') is a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of California. Stretching over 600 miles (1000 km) from San Diego in the south to Sonoma in the north, the route traverses much of the state and has been a popular traveler itinerary for California motorists for nearly a century. :* The '''[[Pacific Coast Highway]]''' is officially California State Route 1 (CA-1) is one of California's slower state routes, closely following the coastline, which in many places is dominated by cliffs and mountains. The alternatives, including '''[[U.S._Highway_101#California|US-101]]''' and '''[[Interstate 5#California|Interstate 5]]''' (with CA-1 sometimes concurrent with US-101), are for those who want to travel more quickly, while CA-1 is the best route for sightseeing California's beautiful coast. El Camino Real lines is best accessed from US Highway 101 and the Pacific Highway (CA-1) between San Diego and Sonoma. * '''[[Arroyo del Valle Trail]]''' is south of the city of Livermore, which is in the Bay Area region of California. The Arroyo Del Valle trail is part of a longer trail network that extends from Livermore, California, through the Diablo Range to Fremont, California at Mission Peak Regional Park. It's about 30 mi (48 km) in all and later parts of the trail network are quite remote, but the part described in this article is used by the general public more frequently than the rest of the hike due to its proximity to the cities of the Tri-Valley. * '''[[East Shore Trail]]''' goes from the northern staging area to the southeast staging area at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore, California. It is approximately 7 miles (11 km) long, with optional extensions at each end. * The '''[[Fiction tourism|Fictional tourism article]]''' aims at locations around the world famous from literature, motion pictures, television series, video games, comic books and other media. Numerous movies and television shows, such as [[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]], [[Terminator tourism|Terminator]], [[Cocoa Beach#Lori Wilson Park|I Dream of Jeannie]], [[Studio City#Brady Residence|Brady Bunch]], etc. have been filmed in Southern California which also served as a backdrop for many of these same films. [[Universal Studios Hollywood|Universal Studios]] even have a theme park to allow the public to get an up close tour of their production studios. * The '''[[Iron Horse Regional Trail]]''' is a biking and walking trail in the East Bay. Formerly a railroad for transporting fruit and grain, it's now a 32-mile (51-kilometer) paved "rail trail" through Concord, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Danville, San Ramon, Dublin, and Pleasanton. * The '''[[Ohlone Wilderness Trail]]''' is a hiking route in the East Bay. It goes from Livermore to Fremont in California across numerous mountain ranges and canyons, and is by no means an easy hike. * California has several dozen state parks that focus on historic locations. The '''[[Olompali–Petaluma–Sonoma historic parks]]''' just north of the San Francisco Bay have significant connections to the rancho era of Mexican Republic. This itinerary will take you through these three state historic parks in a day trip from the Bay area. Each is near a different city in California Wine Country. * The '''[[San Francisco Crosstown Trail]]''' crosses [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco]] from its northwestern edge at Lands End to its southeastern corner at Candlestick Point. Designed by a group of local volunteers, the route connects various hiking paths in local parks with sidewalks and staircases in residential neighborhoods to create a continuous 17-mile (27-km) trail. See also the [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco article]] for a list of in-city itineraries. ==Go next== * '''[[Arizona]]''' – Home to the [[Grand Canyon]], Arizona borders California to the southeast across the Colorado River. * '''[[Nevada]]''' – California's eastern neighbor is best known as the home of [[Las Vegas]], although towns such as [[Reno]] and [[Carson City]] are also good day-trip opportunities for visitors wanting to explore the Silver State. * '''[[Oregon]]''' – Sharing a border to the north, Oregon is home to impressive mountains and extensive forests. * '''[[Hawaii]]''' – Many visitors to America's fiftieth state depart through California on their journey across the Pacific, but it is not a neighboring state and requires a 5-hour flight to get there. * '''[[Baja California]]''' – Those traveling across the border to [[Mexico]] can visit some of that country's most impressive sea and landscapes. [[Tijuana]], [[Ensenada]] and [[Mexicali]] are also good day-trip options for visitors staying in Southern California to explore another country without going to far. {{usableregion}} {{isPartOf|United States}} {{geo|37|-119.5|zoom=6}} {{related|Off-road_vehicles_in_California}} {{related|California_desert_camping}} e2nkulb4nma4djcy8xriioqrix6iclw 5288915 5288914 2026-06-06T17:19:04Z Anyone150 1516949 /* Major highways */ 5288915 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Antelope Valley banner.jpg|caption=California Poppy Preserve in the Antelope Valley}} One of the most diverse states in the [[United States of America|Union]], '''California''' has a culture ranging from the easygoing surf spots on the beaches of [[Southern California]] to the glamor of [[Hollywood]], and the counterculture and thriving businesses of the [[Bay Area]]. The state, which is on the [[West Coast (United States)|west coast of the U.S.]], also varies greatly in natural beauty, from redwood forests on the [[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] to the ski resorts of the rugged [[Sierra Nevada]] mountains and the harsh desert of [[Death Valley]]. The largest state in the U.S. by population and the third largest by area, California boasts world-famous attractions and sights: [[Disneyland]], the [[Golden Gate Bridge]], the [[Napa Valley]] wine country, and the tallest mountain in the [[United States of America#Geography|contiguous United States]], [[Mount Whitney]]. Granted statehood in 1850 following the California Gold Rush, it bears the nickname "the '''Golden State'''", and the sites of the former goldfields are known as the [[Gold Country]]. ==Regions== California is geographically varied, ranging from warm beaches to snowy mountains to fertile farmland to extreme desert. In the middle of the state is the farmland of the Central Valley, which provides produce to the whole country. The conventional wisdom is that there is a huge difference—and also rivalry—between the Southern California area around Los Angeles (or as Californians often say, “LA”) and Northern California centered around the San Francisco Bay Area. There is also a cultural clash between the large liberal coastal cities, and more conservative parts of the state such as Orange County, the Central Valley, and the far northeast part of the state. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Ca-regions.png | regionmapsize=480px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] | region1color=#b2b24d | region1description=Home to the world's tallest trees, the coast redwoods, as well as rugged coastlines and remote nature adventures. | region2name=[[Shasta Cascades]] | region2color=#c375a0 | region2description=Lakes and mountains off the beaten path in the state's northeast corner. | region3name=[[Sacramento Valley]] | region3color=#5bc7c0 | region3description=Home of [[Sacramento]], the state capital, and the urban areas around the city. | region4name=[[Gold Country]] | region4color=#d2d20d | region4description=Historic foothills leading east to the Sierras; the 1848 discovery of gold in this region brought many Americans to California and helped California become a state less than five years after the territory had been acquired. | region5name=[[Sierra Nevada]] | region5color=#5ea54a | region5description=California's alpine and skiing region, including [[Yosemite National Park]] and [[Lake Tahoe]]. | region6name=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]] | region6color=#d06666 | region6description=Home to the cities of [[San Francisco]], [[Oakland]], and [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]], as well as the technology-centered [[Silicon Valley]] and sophisticated [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. | region7name=[[San Joaquin Valley]] | region7color=#a0a0c0 | region7description=Breadbasket of California and home to a large percentage of America's fruit and vegetable supply. | region8name=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] | region8color=#5fb388 | region8description=An isolated stretch of land that features cool mountains and a rugged coastline. | region9name=[[Southern California]] | region9color=#ac663d | region9description=Home to the metropolis of [[Los Angeles]], as well as [[San Diego]], [[Disneyland]], [[Hollywood]], and miles of famous beaches. | region10name=[[Desert (California)|Desert]] | region10color=#d5a90b | region10description=Palm trees, Joshua trees, blazing sun, ghost towns and quirky resorts. Miles of [[Route 66]]. Home of [[Death Valley National Park|Death Valley]] and [[Joshua Tree National Park]]s. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b2b24d|title=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]]|wikidata=Q156186,Q109651,Q108087,Q156361}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c375a0|title=[[Shasta Cascades]]|wikidata=Q156374,Q156188,Q156350,Q109695,Q156340,Q109705,Q156342,Q156181}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5bc7c0|title=[[Sacramento Valley]]|wikidata=Q271601,Q271609,Q156377,Q196014,Q109709,Q108131}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d2d20d|title=[[Gold Country]]|wikidata=Q156370,Q109681,Q156353,Q156177,Q108093,Q271613,Q156346,Q156191}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5ea54a|title=[[Sierra Nevada]]|wikidata=Q108077,Q156366}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d06666|title=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]]|wikidata=Q108117,Q108067,Q108137,Q108083,Q108058,Q107146,Q62,Q108101,Q108122,Q110739}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a0a0c0|title=[[San Joaquin Valley]]|wikidata=Q108499,Q108503,Q109690,Q109661,Q271915,Q156358,Q109686,Q108047}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5fb388|title=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]]|wikidata=Q108072,Q109656,Q49014,Q108106,Q108127}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#ac663d|title=[[Southern California]] and [[Desert (California)|Desert]]|wikidata=Q104994,Q5925,Q108143,Q169952,Q108111,Q108053,Q109670}} ==Cities== [[File:San Francisco with approaching fog.jpg|thumb|400px|San Francisco, partly enshrouded in fog]] {{mapframe}} Here are a few of California's most notable cities, listed from north to south. <!--Please note: This is just a sampler of the cities most visited, with some geographic spread. If you want to add a new city, please locate the correct sub-region article that your city resides in and add the city there instead. --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Eureka]]|url=|lat=40.801944|long=-124.163611|wikidata=Q488702}} – former logging town with charming Victorian city center, waterfront trails, and Redwood Sky Walk featuring the world's tallest tree species. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Redding]]|url=|lat=40.576667|long=-122.370278|wikidata=Q495361}} – Sundial Bridge and gateway to a plethora of outdoor adventures ranging from underground caverns to some of the highest volcanic peaks in the United States. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Sacramento]]|url=|lat=38.555556|long=-121.468889|wikidata=Q18013}} – the laid-back state capital with historic Gold Rush-era quarter of the city, Old Sacramento. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Francisco]]|url=|lat=37.7857 |long=-122.4061 |wikidata=Q62}} – Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, America's largest Chinatown, cable cars, and Victorian houses. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Jose (California)|San Jose]]|url=|lat=37.333333|long=-121.9|wikidata=Q16553}} – south of San Francisco, this city is the center of Silicon Valley, and is home to many technology companies and the (in)famous Winchester Mystery House. *{{marker|type=city| name=[[Santa Barbara]] | lat=34.421 | long=-119.698| wikidata=Q159288}} – city on a south-facing coast which styles itself, with some justification, as "the American Riviera." *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Los Angeles]]|url=|lat=34.05|long=-118.25|wikidata=Q65}} – the state's largest city, and 2nd-largest in the nation. L.A. is home to Hollywood, Venice, The Getty Center, and Griffith Park. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Palm Springs]]|url=|lat=33.830278|long=-116.545278|wikidata=Q488004}} – desert recreation with golf, spas, resorts, casinos, and the famous aerial tramway. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Diego]]|url=| lat=32.7157 | long=-117.1547 ||wikidata=Q16552}} – Balboa Park, Old Town, SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, and nearby Tijuana, Mexico. ==Other destinations== [[File:4076-joshua-tree RJ.JPG|thumb|[[Joshua Tree National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Big Sur]]|lat=36.27028|long=-121.80750|wikidata=Q859413}} can be loosely defined as the stretch of coastline between Carmel and San Simeon, and the steep cliffs, rocky coast, churning waves, abundant wildlife, redwoods, and remoteness make it a stunningly beautiful drive. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Death Valley|Death Valley National Park]]|lat=36.45|long=-117.09|wikidata=Q242111}} – a place of legend and a place of trial. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Disneyland]]|lat=33.8091|long=-117.9190|wikidata=Q1229066}} – this world-famous amusement park opened its doors in 1955 and today draws around 16 million yearly visitors. The California Adventure theme park was added in 2001 and provides attractions inspired by the state's scenery and movie industry. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Joshua Tree National Park]]|lat=33.86|long=-115.89|wikidata=Q735202}} – combines two different desert ecosystems anchored by the peculiar-looking namesake tree species. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Tahoe]]|lat=39.091667|long=-120.041667|wikidata=Q169962}} – a deep blue mountain lake, popular for water sports in the summer and skiing in the winter. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Napa Valley]]|lat=38.50|long=-122.32|wikidata=Q1151105}} – the premier wine region of the United States, with spas, wine tasting and wine tours; the historic heart of [[California Wine Country]]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]|lat=36.56472|long=-118.77337}} – these twin parks hold monuments to nature's size, beauty, and diversity, including the largest tree on Earth, the General Sherman Tree. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Yosemite National Park]]|lat=37.7333|long=-119.5500|wikidata=Q180402}} – one of the first wilderness parks in the United States, the site of natural wonders such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and numerous waterfalls. California also has [[California state parks|many state parks]], approximately half of which are near urban centers. This is in addition to the state's eight [[United States national parks#California|national parks]] found across the state. ==Understand== [[File:Mission Santa Clara.jpg|thumb|Mission [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]]]] ===History=== {{see also|Indigenous cultures of North America|Old West}} Human settlement in California goes back 50,000 years; California was home to 30 different tribal groups prior to the arrival of European explorers in the 1500s and now over 120 tribes are left. The first Europeans to discover what is now California were the Spanish and Portuguese. Spanish colonialism was established through '''[[El Camino Real|twenty-one missions]]''' built throughout California by the late 1700s. These missions still survive today, stretching from [[San Diego]] on the Mexican border to [[Sonoma]] in the northern San Francisco Bay Area. After the Mexican War for Independence in 1821, California became a part of [[Mexico]] for 25 years until 1846, when many of its residents declared a sovereign nation (the '''California Republic''', also called the ''Bear Flag Republic'') before it was annexed by the United States in 1846, and has since then had an image as the "land of opportunity" and the final destination of luck-seekers. The 1848 discovery of gold in the Sierra Nevada mountains kicked off the '''California Gold Rush''', and California's non-native population surged from 15,000 to over 300,000 within two years. People who moved to California during the Gold rush were often called "49ers", a term that was adopted as the name for the San Francisco [[American Football|football]] team. California became a state in 1850, and its population has increased steadily since then. [[Los Angeles]], a city which once boasted one of the longest streetcar networks in the world, boomed through defense contractors and later converted to a "freeway" city after the streetcars were dismantled. The city hosted Olympic Games twice (1932 & 1984) at times when the Olympic movement was in crisis and the games were largely seen as successes for the city as well as the Olympic movement. [[Post-war United States|In the post-war years]], California (especially the [[Bay Area]]) became a hotspot of counterculture, including popular music, the anti-war movement, and the LGBT community. Since the late 20th century, the state and in particular, the Bay Area, has been at the forefront of the Digital Revolution, with innovations such as personal computers and smartphones having been introduced through '''Silicon Valley'''. Today California is the most populous state in the US with over 38 million residents. Taken by itself, California would rank as one of the world's top ten economies and Californian places like Silicon Valley, Hollywood and San Francisco are known globally and have shaped not only American but world culture. Politically, California is seen as a solidly "blue" state: it has a two-thirds majority of Democrats in both chambers of the legislature and often provides the Democratic party with particularly left-wing ideas, especially on social issues. That said, the state actually contains a lot of political diversity, with conservative views prevalent in much of the state outside the densely populated Bay Area and Los Angeles County, particularly in the fertile but relatively sparsely populated [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. ===Landscape=== [[File:Giant sequoias in Sequoia National Park 2013.jpg|thumb|Sequoia National Park]] With over 160,000 square miles (411,000 km²), the landscape of California is vast and varied, and the stereotypical beach paradise is only the tip of the iceberg. The state contains extremes in elevation, with [[Mount Whitney]] at 14,505 ft (4,421 m) being the tallest mountain in the [[lower 48]] states, while less than 200 miles (320 km) away [[Death Valley]], at 282 ft (82 m) below sea level, is North America's lowest point. California's border to the west is made up of a rugged coastline along the Pacific Ocean. The coastal mountains rise up from the ocean and are home to redwood trees in their northern half. Moving eastward, the Central Valley bisects California from north-to-south, before giving way to the Sierra Nevada mountains, which are home to [[Yosemite National Park]], [[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]], and other natural wonders. The southeastern part of California is dominated by desert, which covers 25% of California's total area. The [[Mojave Desert|Mojave]] is a high desert, with elevations ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 ft (1,000 to 2,000 m) above sea level. This area receives less than six inches (152 mm) of rain each year. ===Climate=== [[File:Surfers At Steamer Lane Santa Cruz CA. - panoramio.jpg|alt=Surfers on the water|thumb|Wetsuits were invented in Santa Cruz because the ocean is so cold.]] The state's climate varies from subtropical at the coast to the brutal winters of the mountains to one of the world's hottest regions in the deserts. Rainfall is more common in the northern part of the state than in the south, and snow is rare except in the mountains. Most precipitation occurs during winter, but California experiences frequent droughts. This has prompted people to install drought-resistant landscaping. In some years, farms lie fallow due to lack of water for irrigation. The hottest temperature ever recorded in the Western Hemisphere, 134°F (56.6°C) was at Death Valley in 1913, and temperatures here regularly exceed 120°F (50°C) during the summer. In contrast, winter temperatures in the mountains can drop below 0°F (-20°C). In between these extremes there are great local variations in climate due to topography and the influence of the Pacific Ocean upon precipitation and temperature, with temperatures becoming increasingly moderated nearer the coastline. For swimming, the Pacific Ocean can be surprisingly cold even in July due to currents. September and October are the best months for swimming. Another surprise in coastal areas is the presence of cool temperatures and fog in the mornings through most of the year. To experience California as a sunny place, plan to sleep late. ===People=== California is a very diverse state with many ethnic groups. California has large populations of people of varied backgrounds such as Mexican, Salvadoran, Guatemalan, Armenian, Iranian, Jewish, Chinese, Russian, Filipino, Eastern Indian, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Thai, and Hmong. California also has large populations of African Americans and Native Americans. Although typically considered to be a liberal state, Californians have a wide variety of political views which tend to vary based on region. The Central Valley, [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]], San Diego, and Palm Springs area tend to be more conservative, while [[Los Angeles County]] and the [[Bay Area|San Francisco Bay Area]] are among the most progressive areas in the country. California is a large and diverse state, with different cultures in each region. ===Holidays=== California observes all the [[Holidays of the United States|federal holidays]], except Columbus Day, and adds Farmworkers Day on March 31st (or nearest weekday). However, some cities such as [[Coronado (California)|Coronado]] that have a large population of federal workers or military personnel do observe Columbus Day. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitcalifornia.com/ Visit California] website ==Talk== [[File:Golden Hour at Emerald Bay.jpg|thumb|Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe]] Although the California Constitution states that '''English''' is the official language of the state of California, in reality, California is a multilingual state. American English is the main language and '''[[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]''' is the ''de facto'' second language, and a knowledge of even rudimentary Spanish is useful in most cities from Sacramento to San Diego. Los Angeles has some of the largest Hispanic populations north of Mexico. The state is highly influenced by Spanish culture due to its history, and it is not uncommon to see store and street signs written in both English and Spanish. "Spanglish" (a mixture of English and Spanish) is often used and heard throughout the state. Even people with no Latino heritage whatsoever sometimes speak fluent Spanish or use common Spanish-derived expressions when speaking English. Most government offices and tourist attractions, as well as many businesses in California have at least a few employees who are bilingual in English and Spanish. In fact, some restaurants may have a workforce that is more fluent in Spanish than English. Due to a history of Asian immigration and influence, Asian languages such as Cantonese, Mandarin, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, and Hindi are also spoken among Asian Californian populations. The major cities also tend to have communities of essentially any ethnicity imaginable, and there is a good chance you can hear their language and have an opportunity to experience their cultures. San Francisco, for example, is home to a significant French community, while Los Angeles boasts quite a large Ethiopian neighborhood. ==Get in== [[File:Skyscraper Los Angeles Downtown 2013.jpg|thumb|Skyscrapers in Downtown L.A.]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Flying in the United States}} [[San Francisco International Airport]] ({{IATA|SFO}}) and [[Los Angeles International Airport]] ({{IATA|LAX}}) are the most popular entry points with a wide variety of flights from [[Europe]], [[East Asia]], [[India]], [[Oceania]] ([[Australia]], [[Fiji]], [[New Zealand]], [[Tahiti]], etc.), [[Latin America]] and from various cities in the U.S. on a variety of U.S. and foreign flag carriers. To a lesser extent there are also direct flights from the [[Middle East]] ([[Israel]], [[Qatar]], [[Saudi Arabia]], [[Turkey]] and the [[United Arab Emriates]]) to Los Angeles. They are however also the most crowded and the SFO-LAX route is one of the busiest air corridors in the world causing frequent delays due to congestion. Delays at San Francisco airport due to fog are also somewhat common. If coming from within the U.S. and from Mexico there are other alternate airports in California that are less crowded and may be closer to your final destination. They are: :* Los Angeles area – [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Hollywood-Burbank Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]] (closest to Hollywood and Downtown Los Angeles), [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa_Ana_(California)|Orange County]] (closest to Disneyland & Knott's Berry Farm), [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario International Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}) in Ontario (closest to Joshua Tree and the Inland Empire deserts), and [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach Airport] ({{IATA|LGB}}) in [[Long Beach]]. :* San Francisco Bay Area – [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport] ({{IATA|OAK}}) in Oakland (closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose Airport] ({{IATA|SJC}}) in San Jose (closest to Silicon Valley), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] ({{IATA|STS}}) in [[Santa Rosa (California)|Santa Rosa]] (closest to Wine Country). Both San Francisco and Oakland airports are now connected to the local metro network, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a bus route 10 to the 'Santa Clara Station'. :* [[San Diego International Airport]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) in San Diego :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento Airport]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) in Sacramento :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno Airport]] ({{IATA|RNO}}) in [[Reno]], Nevada is closer to [[Lake Tahoe]] than from Sacramento. :* [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno Airport] ({{IATA|FAT}}) in Fresno, closest to Yosemite NP and the major airport in the [[San Joaquin Valley]]. :* Palm Springs ({{IATA|PSP}}) :* Central Coast – Monterey ({{IATA|MRY}}) (closest to Big Sur), San Luis Obispo ({{IATA|SBP}}) (closest to Hearst Castle), and Santa Barbara ({{IATA|SBA}}). :* [[Harry_Reid_International_Airport|Las Vegas]] ({{IATA|LAS}}), Nevada is closer to Death Valley NP than from Los Angeles or Ontario. :* [[Tijuana#By plane|Tijuana Airport]] ({{IATA|TIJ}}) in Tijuana. If coming from Mexico it may be more advantageous to fly to Tijuana on a (Mexican) domestic flight and then cross into San Diego by ground transportation or through its second terminal (CBX) on the American side of the border than on an international flight to San Diego, Los Angeles, or other cities further north. From San Diego, you can continue north to the San Francisco Bay area, Las Vegas, [[Phoenix]] or wherever in the U.S. you are continuing to. See [[California#By plane 2|By plane]] under the "Get Around" section for more information. ===By train=== {{see also|Rail travel in the United States}} [[Amtrak]] serves several routes into and out of California. If you are going to Los Angeles from the Central Valley, you might have to change to a bus for the last part of the trip, as the only railway connection between the Central Valley and Los Angeles is also one of the busiest freight lines in the United States. Plans to build a new [[high speed rail]] line to link San Francisco and Los Angeles are underway, but completion is not scheduled before the late 2020s. The following Amtrak routes serve California and terminate in [[Los Angeles#By train|Los Angeles]] or [[Emeryville]]: * The ''[[California Zephyr]]'' runs daily between [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] and [[Emeryville]] with connections in [[Omaha]], [[Denver]], [[Provo]], [[Salt Lake City]] and [[Reno|Reno/Lake Tahoe]]. This train also stops in the Sierra Nevada (Truckee and Colfax) and the Sacramento Valley (Roseville, [[Sacramento]], Davies and Martinez). Emeryville is the nearest Amtrak station to downtown San Francisco where passengers transfer to the Amtrak Thruway bus to continue across the bay to San Francisco. * The ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' runs daily between Los Angeles and [[Seattle#By train|Seattle]] via [[Portland (Oregon)#By train|Portland]], [[Klamath Falls]], [[Redding]], [[Bay Area (California)|San Francisco Bay Area]], Santa Barbara, [[San Luis Obispo]] and [[Oxnard]]. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/southwest-chief-train.html Southwest Chief]'' runs daily from [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] via [[Kansas City]], [[Albuquerque]], [[Flagstaff]], Williams Junction (nearest stop to the [[Grand Canyon]]) and [[Kingman]] to Los Angeles. It also makes stops in the Mojave Desert ([[Needles]], [[Barstow]] and [[Victorville]]); the [[Inland Empire]] ([[Riverside]] and [[San Bernardino]]) and Orange County ([[Fullerton]]) and on its way into Los Angeles. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/sunset-limited-train.html Sunset Limited]'' runs three times a week from [[New Orleans]] via [[Houston]], [[San Antonio]], [[El Paso]], [[Tucson]] and [[Yuma]]. Additionally, Amtrak's ''[http://www.texaseagle.com/ Texas Eagle]'' service between San Antonio and Chicago incorporates the Sunset Limited to provide a direct connection to Los Angeles with the same stops as the Sunset Limited between San Antonio and Los Angeles. This train also stops in the Inland Empire ([[Pomona]], Ontario and Palm Springs). Train services are limited to two token lines with hardly any real transport value in Mexico and there are ''no'' passenger rail service to anywhere near the U.S./Mexican border from anywhere in Mexico. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to California. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''By bus'' under ''Get around'' in the below for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By car=== All major road entrances (including entrances from other U.S. States) to California have agricultural inspection stations to ensure that some fruits and vegetables do not cross into a region where they may come into contact with the farms in the [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. Often, travelers are subject to border inspection (somewhat strict for domestic travel) and asked if they have been on a farm or are carrying organic matter with them. ==Get around== California is the third largest state of the U.S. by area (after [[Alaska]] and [[Texas]]). It compares in size with [[Sweden]]. However, getting around California can be simple. ===By car=== [[File:California State Route 1 in Marin County.jpg|California State Route 1|thumb|right|250px]] [[File:405 southbound near Getty Museum.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Interstate 405 in Los Angeles]] In addition to interstates and US highways, California has one of the most expansive state highway systems in the United States. As with all long-distance trips in the United States, a car is generally the best way to get around and see destinations, especially rural ones. However the trip from the northern end of California to the southern end can take well over ten hours as the state's varied and in places rugged terrain can pose obstacles to the road network. The coast routes (State Route 1 and U.S. 101) are much slower and windier than Interstate 5, and GPS travel estimate times may be inaccurate, especially on Highway 1. Most California drivers are courteous and careful (although speeding is rampant), and the safety and ease of driving in California is comparable to most wealthy countries. Exceptions may be found in the most congested areas of San Francisco and Los Angeles &mdash; where potholes, road rage and reckless driving are commonplace &mdash; and some country roads in mountain ranges. Information about vehicle collisions and other non-congestion traffic problems on highways are reported online at [https://www.chp.ca.gov/traffic chp.ca.gov/traffic]. Traffic congestion is tracked by most online map sites. Gasoline prices are more expensive than in other parts of the U.S.; consider public transit in highly populated areas such as the Bay Area where prices are especially high. ====Freeway signage (and cautions)==== California uses the MUTCD (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices) lane marking system standard throughout the United States, in which dashed white lines divide lanes of through traffic and yellow divides opposing traffic (with single dashed indicating passing and double solid indicating no passing). In many urban areas the lane markings are replaced by Botts dots for additional tactile feedback when crossing lanes. The network of freeways in major population centers is often confusing and intimidating to those unfamiliar with the area, so having a good map is very helpful. The great majority of exits from freeways are on the right. At interchanges between freeways, in most cases, the flow of traffic continues through the left lanes with the transition to the other freeway being in the right lanes. At some freeway interchanges, Caltrans (California Dept. of Transportation) is notorious for posting advance direction signs that do not correctly explain which lanes correspond to which ramps. Additionally, Caltrans does not always post signs warning of upcoming lane drops or merges. For example, where a freeway has three through lanes and the central lane splits into two lanes, thus resulting in two ramps with two lanes each, the advance signage may incorrectly imply that only the right lane will break off for the upcoming right-side ramp, thus causing visitors driving in the middle lane to merge unnecessarily into the right lane. And the two lanes on the right-side ramp may suddenly merge into each other without any warning. These issues frequently result in visitors making wild last-minute lane merges. Approach major freeway interchanges in California with caution. Mile-based exit numbering is in progress but is still very erratic in areas; an exit number may not be marked at all, may be marked on the last directional sign before the exit, or may be marked on the final "Exit" sign where the exit ramp separates. ====Ramp meters==== In urban areas, the access ramps to a freeway may have traffic lights for each lane (called ramp meters or ramp metering lights; you'll see warning signs that read "meter on"). During high-traffic times, the traffic light spaces out the vehicles attempting to merge onto the freeway. Be sure to read the sign below the light as ramps can allow 1 to 3 vehicles per green light. Most ramp meters are for ramps from local roads to a freeway, but some freeway junctions have meters on their ramps too. ====Toll roads and bridges==== Most highways are freely accessible and toll-free. However, California has some toll bridges, toll roads, and tolled Express Lanes. Toll road and bridges are indicated on road signs. When a toll-free road flows directly into a toll road or bridge, there is sometimes a sign for "last exit before toll". FasTrak electronic toll collection (ETC) via toll transponders or tags is used for all toll facilities. Cash is no longer accepted. FasTrak is not compatible with any other state's ETC system. Some California toll authorities also allow online pay-by-plate, but if no signage mentions it, assume it is unavailable. If you drive a vehicle through a toll gantry without an active FasTrak account and the toll authority has no pay by plate option, you may receive an expensive ticket for nonpayment of toll. In Northern California, all major bridges in the San Francisco Bay Area have toll plazas, with tolls charged on traffic in only one direction. The plazas are unmanned and will be replaced with gantries for open-road tolling, but for now, drivers must slow to 20 mph to pass through them. Southern California has several toll roads in Orange County which use open-road tolling. "Express Lanes" are high-occupancy (HOV) lanes (carpool lanes) that non-high-occupancy vehicles can often use by paying a toll. Electronic signs will indicate whether the Express Lane is "open to all" (no toll is charged) or "HOV only" (only HOVs eligible for toll-free access may use the lane). If the signs show a price in dollars and cents, it means that non-HOV vehicles may use the Express Lane but will be charged that toll. During times of severe traffic congestion, Express Lanes may charge tolls of $20 or more per vehicle. HOVs are supposed to be exempt from tolls in Express Lanes. Some Express Lane operators require all HOVs to carry FasTrak Flex transponders to signal their toll-free status. If you are legally using a free carpool lane and a sign warns it will turn into a tolled Express Lane, you must merge immediately back into regular lanes if you do not have FasTrak Flex. ====HOV/carpool lanes==== Some freeways have a high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane on the far left. This lane, also called the carpool lane or diamond lane, is marked by: * a diamond symbol painted on the road surface * signage on the wall separating the two sides of the freeway, with the diamond symbol * a double yellow line on the road surface (only in Southern California) Some freeway access ramps have carpool lanes too; often, the non-carpool lanes will have ramp meter traffic lights while the carpool lane has none. In most cases, the carpool lane is only for vehicles with 2 or more persons inside, motorcycles, and clean-air vehicles with [https://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/carpool/carpool.htm government-issued "Access OK" stickers]. Sometimes, 3 or more persons and/or a FasTrak transponder may be required, so check the signage before entering a carpool lane. Carpool lane restrictions may be enforced 24 hours a day every day, or only when the signage says so (in those cases, it's usually only during rush hour on weekdays). Carpool lanes in Southern California have limited access points marked by a dashed white line. This is the only point at which a vehicle may legally enter or exit a carpool lane, since you are not allowed to cross a double yellow line. The minimum fine for unlawful use of a carpool lane is $490. ====Traffic safety and law enforcement==== All persons in a moving vehicle are required to wear a seatbelt and the driver and all passengers can be individually ticketed for failing to do so. Motorcycle riders must wear a helmet. Cellphone users are required to use a hands-free headset if talking on the phone while driving. Texting by the driver is illegal, as is any action on the phone that forces the driver to touch it more than once (and even single-touch actions are only allowed if the phone is mounted securely rather than hand-held). Unless otherwise signed, right-turns are permitted at red lights following a full stop. If it is raining hard enough to require you to use your windshield wipers, California law requires that your headlights be turned on. Most California police officers carry radar guns to catch speeding drivers. The California Highway Patrol occasionally flies aircraft overhead to spot speeders and help ground units home in on their positions. Red light enforcement cameras are in use at many urban intersections, but are marked only by a single "photo enforced" sign before the intersection. Speed enforcement cameras are being piloted in a few cities, including San Francisco and Los Angeles; the cameras are small and hard to spot. California's laws against driving under the influence of alcohol are very strict; the maximum permissible blood alcohol concentration is 0.08%. All drivers are strongly encouraged to call 911 to report drunk drivers. California requires disabled out-of-state visitors to apply at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for a travel placard for handicapped parking. It is valid for 90 days. Travelers with a non-US driver's license are generally permitted to drive in California. However, travelers who are in California for more than 10 days with some kinds of visas, especially the K-1 non-immigrant visa for future spouses, have run into some difficulties over their place of residence. The DMV refuses to issue drivers' licenses to people with non-immigrant visas, but police have filed charges against some of them for becoming a California resident without promptly obtaining a California license – the very license that the State refuses to issue on the grounds that they haven't legally become residents yet. This risk may be reduced by giving your non-California address as your place of legal residence if stopped by police. Unlike most states, "lane-splitting" by motorcyclists (i.e. riding down the painted lines between traffic lanes) is legal in California and commonly done in heavy traffic. It's only legal when traffic is going slower than 30 mph, and motorcyclists are only allowed to go 15 mph faster than the general flow of traffic, but many motorcyclists seem to treat this as more of a guideline than a hard and fast rule. As a result, if you're driving a car, take extra care to watch for motorcycles when changing lanes on a major highway. ====Major highways==== [[File:California State Route 1 All American Road sign.jpg|150px|thumb|right|A California State Highway sign. The poppy sign below it indicates that it is a state scenic route]] Here are some important highways in California: * [[File:I-5.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 5]]:''' Runs between San Diego, Los Angeles, and Sacramento, then north into Oregon and Washington. :*[[File:California 99.svg|22px]] '''State Route 99:''' Runs along the California Central Valley between Red Bluff, Sacramento, Stockton, Modesto, Fresno and Bakersfield as the Golden State Freeway. * [[File:I-8.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 8:''' Runs between San Diego, Calexico, Yumma, and Casa Grande, Arizona. * [[File:I-10.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10]]:''' Runs between Santa Monica, Los Angeles, the Inland Empire and Palm Springs, then over the Colorado River into Arizona and points east. * [[File:I-15.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 15:''' Runs between San Diego, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Las Vegas, Nevada and points north. * [[File:I-40.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 40:''' Runs between Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona, towards Oklahoma City and points east. Interstate 40 bypasses or replaces the old Route 66 between Barstow and Oklahoma City (as County Rd 66 in San Bernardino County). :* [[File:US_66_(historic).svg|22px]] '''[[Route 66|Historic Route 66]]:''' Now decommissioned, historically connected Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona and points east. It runs alongside I-40 between Barstow and Oklahoma City and alongside or concurrent with I-15 between Barstow and San Bernardino. * [[File:I-80.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 80#California|Interstate 80]]:''' Runs between the Bay Area, Sacramento, Reno, Nevada, and points east. * [[File:I-405.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 405:''' Runs {{mile|72}} between Northridge and Irvine via Van Nuys, LAX, Culver City, Long Beach, Santa Ana, and point in between as an auxiliary by-pass of I-5 through the Los Angeles Area. * [[File:I-580.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 580:''' Connects the San Francisco Bay Area with Interstate 5 in the Central Valley * [[File:US 50.svg|22px]]'''U.S. Highway 50:''' Runs between Sacramento, South Lake Tahoe, Carson City, Nevada, and points east * [[File:US 101.svg|22px]] '''U.S. Highway 101:''' Runs between Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, then close to the California Coast to the San Francisco Bay, Eureka and points north :* [[File:California 1.svg|22px]] '''[[Pacific Coast Highway|State Route 1]]:''' Runs up the California Coast between Orange County, Los Angeles, Monterey, the Bay Area, and [[Fort Bragg]] * [[File:US 395.svg|22px]] '''U.S. Highway 395:''' Runs along the Eastern Sierras, connecting the Inland Empire and High Desert with Bishop, Reno, and Susanville, then into Oregon and points north ====Taxis and rideshares==== Taxis and rideshare services (Uber and Lyft) are widely available in and around California's largest cities: San Francisco, Los Angeles (including Orange County), San Diego, and Sacramento. They are less likely to be available in small towns and rural areas. ====Robotaxis==== Waymo operates a robotaxi service with self-driving vehicles in two service areas: one on the San Francisco Peninsula from San Francisco to downtown San Jose, and another in the western part of Los Angeles south of the Santa Monica Mountains, from downtown Los Angeles to Santa Monica and as far south as Inglewood. However, Waymo does not yet have authorization to provide service to Los Angeles International Airport. Only San Jose International Airport allows Waymo unrestricted access to pick up and drop off passengers. Waymo is now able to drive on freeways, and it can also pick up and drop off at San Francisco International Airport, but only at the Rental Car Center (10 minutes to the terminals via AirTrain tram). Both features are subject to wait lists, making them less useful to new users. ===By plane=== [[File:LAX LA.jpg|Los Angeles International Airport|250px|thumb|right]] Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state. [https://www.aa.com American/American Eagle]; [https://www.united.com/ United/United Express]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.delta.com Delta], [https://www.southwest.com Southwest], [https://www.jetblue.com JetBlue], [http://www.jsx.com Jet Suite X (JSX)], [https://www.spirit.com Spirit] and [https://www.alaskaair.com Alaska Airlines] offer intrastate flights within the state of California. San Francisco is a hub for United and Alaska; while Los Angeles is a hub for United, American/American Eagle, Delta, JetBlue and Alaska Airlines. The LAX-SFO route is one of the busiest in America which means competitive fares and delays are frequent which is only made worse by the fog that tends to hit San Francisco bay on a regular basis. In addition, the airlines offer flights from different airports in [[Southern California#By plane|southern California]] in the south; to the [[Bay_Area_(California)#By plane|SF Bay area]] and to Sacramento in the north at competitive rates. A route between lesser-known airports (say, Burbank to Oakland) may save you money and avoid airport chaos compared to LAX-SFO. The primary airports served by major US carriers, Volaris (from Mexico) and Aeromexico (from Mexico) in California are in: :* Los Angeles area – [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles International]] ({{IATA|LAX}}), [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Burbank-Hollywood Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]], [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa Ana_(California)|Orange County]]; [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}), and a small airport in [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach] ({{IATA|LGB}}) :* San Francisco Bay Area – [[San Francisco International Airport|San Francisco]] ({{IATA|SFO}}), [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay] ({{IATA|OAK}}), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose] ({{IATA|SJC}}), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] (Charles M. Schulz Airport) ({{IATA|STS}}) in Santa Rosa; both San Francisco and Oakland airport are now connected to the metro, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a free shuttle at the 'Santa Clara Station'. Oakland is closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO is and offers a fog-free alternative. :* [[San Diego#By plane|San Diego]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno]] ({{IATA|RNO}}), Nevada closer to the Lake Tahoe area than Sacramento The busiest second tier airports are [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno] ({{IATA|FAT}}) (nearest to Yosemite NP); [https://flysba.santabarbaraca.gov/ Santa Barbara] ({{IATA|SBA}}); and [https://flypsp.com/ Palm Springs] ({{IATA|PSP}}). There are also flights from major hubs to [[Arcata]]/McKinleyville (nearest to Eureka), Bakersfield, Crescent City, El Centro, Mammoth Lakes, Merced, Monterey, Redding, San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, and Stockton. ===By train=== The state's various rail services provide a cheap and reasonably comfortable way to see and get around much of the state [[USA without a car|without a car]]. '''[[Amtrak]]''' operates a few long-distance routes through and out of California, as well as the three Amtrak California routes: :* San Luis Obispo-Santa Barbara-Los Angeles-Anahiem-San Diego on the ''[https://www.pacificsurfliner.com/ Pacific Surfliner]'' :* Oakland/Sacramento-Stockton-Fresno-Bakersfield on the ''[https://goldrunner.com/ Gold Runner]'' (which has a connecting Thruway bus service to Los Angeles) :* San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Auburn on the ''[https://www.capitolcorridor.org/ Capitol Corridor]'' :* Los Angeles-Santa Barbara-San Luis Obispo-San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Redding-(continues to Seattle) on the ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' :* Emeryville (San Francisco connection)-Sacramento-Truckee (near Lake Tahoe)-(continues to Chicago) on the ''California Zephyr'' :*Los Angeles-Palm Springs-(continues to Chicago) on the Sunset Limited :*''Amtrak Thruway Motorcoaches'' connects additional cities and towns to/from the Amtrak (train) network by bus such as Santa Cruz-San Jose; San Francisco-Emeryville; Bakersfield-Los Angeles; Bakersfield-Las Vegas; Martinez-Arcata; Redding-Sacramento; etc. Amtrak has seen continuously increasing ridership in most of the US for more than a decade now, and surprisingly enough three of the six most popular Amtrak routes run through California, thus making them a viable alternative to the more often than not congested roads and airports. In addition, there are several commuter and regional services in the state's metro areas: :*''[https://www.caltrain.com/ Caltrain]'' San Francisco-Palo Alto-San Jose-Gilroy through the famous Silicon Valley. :* ''[https://acerail.com/ Altamont Commuter Express]'' San Jose-Stockton through the Altamont Corridor Express. :* ''[https://www.bart.gov/ BART]'' operates in the Bay Area, connecting much of the East Bay (Oakland, Berkeley, Walnut Creek) to San Francisco and SFO. :* ''[https://metrolinktrains.com/ Metrolink]'' runs regional train service throughout the greater Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura County (metropolis) region on multiple routes. :* ''[https://gonctd.com/services/coaster-commuter-rail/ COASTER]'' runs along the coast of San Diego County between downtown San Diego, Carlsbad and Oceanside. :*''[https://gonctd.com/services/sprinter-hybrid-rail/ SPRINTER]'' runs across Northern San Diego County between Escondino and Oceanside with bus and train connections to Los Angeles and San Diego. :*''[https://www.sonomamarintrain.org/ Sonoma-Marin Rail (SMART)]'' runs between Santa Rosa and San Rafael in Marin/Sonoma County (Northern Bay Area) with ferry connections to San Francisco There are also light rail systems in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Jose. Almost all of these systems are being expanded or upgraded to cope with rising ridership, so expect more and better service in years to come. ===By bus=== {{see also|Long-distance bus travel in the United States }} The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There are fairly frequent service from [[Los Angeles#By bus|Los Angeles]] to [[San Francisco#By bus|San Francisco]]/[[San Jose_(California)#By bus|San Jose]]; [[San Diego#By_bus|San Diego]]/[[Tijuana#By_bus|Tijuana]]; [[Las Vegas#By_bus|Las Vegas]]/[[San Bernardino#By_bus|San Bernardino]] and [[Sacramento#By bus|Sacramento]] with on multiple routes with various bus companies. There are other the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns which are not listed, check the article of your destination for all the transportation options. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/california/ here]. * {{listing | name=Eastern Sierra Transit | alt= | url=https://www.estransit.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 760 872-1901 | tollfree=+1 800 922-1930 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Operates 'local' buses along US Hwy 395 corridor between Mammoth Lake, Bishop and Lone Pine in Mono and Inyo Counties in the eastern 'Desert' and the Sierra Nevada parts of the state. They have a route continuing north to Carson City & Reno from Mammoth Lake and south to Lancaster from Lone Pine. The area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway buses }} * {{listing | type=go | name=El Paso Los Angeles Limousine Express | alt= | url=https://www.eplalimo.com/ | email= | address=(downtown LA depot) 622 E 6th St | lat= | long= | directions=SW corner of E 6th St & Wall St across the street from police station | phone=+1 213 623-2323 and +1 323-265-3232 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Travels along I-10 between Los Angeles, [[Indio]], Phoenix, [[Las Cruces]] and El Paso on one route and on I-15 to Las Vegas & North Las Vegas on another route. They have additional stops in E. Los Angeles, El Monte and [[Colton]] on their way on both routes. They also have a second depot at 4425 S Atlantic Blvd in E Los Angeles. }} * {{listing | name=Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.flixbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 626-8585 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-06-14 | content=The German bus company, Flixbus, connects Los Angeles to Las Vegas, Phoenix, Sacramento, SF Bay Area and San Diego via multiple cities en route in Arizona and California. It has grown rapidly through subcontracting its operations, which has the downside for customers that the buses are not of a consistent style or quality. In October 2021 they had merged with Greyhound Lines (see below) but, maintain separate brands. Tickets and schedules with Greyhound and Flixbus can be searched and purchased through each other's websites. }} * {{listing | name=Green Tortoise | alt= | url=https://greentortoise.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 415 956-7500 | tollfree=1 800 867-8647 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates something like a 'hippie' bus that serves as a bus by day with stops to visit different places like a bus tour throughout the day and a RV camper by night in different campgrounds. It offers bus tours and camping trips to Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Death Valley Sequoia and along the coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Some of its tours involve a 3- to 5-day round trip from the point of origin such as from San Francisco to Yosemite NP and back while others are one way where the journey starts from one place and end in the other like from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree and end in Las Vegas. Even with round trips it is possible to ask to be picked up or dropped off in different places than the point of origin/return. Others like its 'Hostel Hoppers' or 'Express' are a straightforward bus ride from point A to B. It is one way to combine 'taking the bus' from one place to another and to visit and see remote places without a private automobile. }} * {{listing | name=Greyhound , Cruceros-USA, Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1 800 231-2222 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Greyhound goes to 100 locations statewide, though these are not all actual stations, some are merely stops. In general, Greyhound serves the same routes that Amtrak does along the main highways. In some cases Greyhound is cheaper, faster, and more frequent than Amtrak. Flixbus tickets can also be searched and purchased on Greyhound's website }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Hoang Express | alt= | url=https://www.xedohoang.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 714 839-3500 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=$60-65 to Bay Area; $80 to Sacramento | content=Travels between SoCal (San Diego, El Monte, Los Angeles, [[Westminster (California)|Westminster]]); Bay Area (San Francisco, San Jose & Oakland) and to Sacramento on another route from Los Angeles. They also offer service from Los Angeles to Arizona (Phoenix, [[Chandler (Arizona)|Chandler]] and [[Tempe]]. }} * {{go | name=International Bus Lines | alt=formerly Intercalifornias | url=https://www.ibuslines.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 629-4885 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination | content=Connects Tijuana, San Ysidro (just over the border), Santa Ana, Los Angeles, San Fernando, Bakersfield, Fresno, and San Jose/[[Stockton (California)|Stockton]] (route splits/joins in Madero) and several other places in between. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=LuxBus | alt= | url=https://www.luxbusamerica.com/ | email= | address=on request for hotel pick up/drop off | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-877-610-7870 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Operates to/from [[Las Vegas]], [[Anaheim]], and [[San Diego]]. }} * {{listing | name=Mendocino Transit Authority (MTA) | alt= | url=https://mendocinotransit.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Travels extensively in the North Coast region along Hwy 1 from Ft Bragg to Navarro River Junction (#65), Point Arena (#75), Bodega Bay and Santa Rosa (#95). Another route from Ft Bragg to Willits, Ukiah and Santa Rosa along SR-20 and US Hwy 101 (Rt #65). Much of the area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway Buses off the US Hwy 101 corridor. }} * {{listing | name=Sage Stage | alt= | url=https://sagestage.com/ | email= | address=(bus stops) Rite Aide @ 5th & Main in Alturas | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 530 233-6410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-18 | content=Provides public transportation from Alturas and Canby in Modoc County, in the [[Shasta Cascades]], to [[Redding]]; [[Reno]], NV; and [[Klamath Falls]], OR on three separate routes. }} * {{listing | name=Santa Barbara Airbus | alt= | url=https://www.sbairbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 805 964-7759 | tollfree=+1-800-423-1618 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-08-05 | content=Eight trips a day from [[Los Angeles International Airport|LAX]] to [[Carpinteria]], [[Santa Barbara]] and [[Goleta]]. }} * {{listing | name="Cabin" | alt=formerly Sleep Bus | url=https://www.ridecabin.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-25 | content=Overnight service to the Los Angeles area (Ocean & Arizona Ave in Palisades Park in [[Santa Monica]]) from San Francisco (Bayside Lot @ 1 Bryant St). This is an actual sleeper bus featuring twin size bunk beds with privacy curtains, power outlets, and free wifi. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Tufesa | alt= | url=https://www.gotobus.com/tufesa/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 489-8079 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination |lastedit=2022-11-30| content=Connects Los Angeles to Sacramento (via Bakersfield, Fresno, etc); to Salt Lake City (via Barstow, Las Vegas, St George, etc); to Hermosillo (via Phoenix, Tucson, Nogales); San Francisco Bay Area; and to Tijuana (via Santa Ana, San Diego/San Ysidro). }} * {{listing | name=Yarts | alt= | url=https://yarts.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates regularly scheduled buses from Yosemite NP (Visitors' Center) to Fresno, Merced, Mammoth Lakes & Sonora on four separate routes. }} ===By foot=== *The [[Pacific Crest Trail]] crosses the length of California on its way from [[Mexico]] to [[Canada]] *The [[American Discovery Trail]] connects California with [[Nevada]] and the East Coast. ===By boat=== *Ferry service is limited, but can be a scenic, relaxing, and fun way to travel. Major services exist in the [[Bay Area]], to the [[Channel Islands (California)|Channel Islands]] and to [[Catalina Island]] near Los Angeles. Several of the smaller coastal towns have water taxi services within their city. Check as the stops and limited and the schedules may seasonal. *Many cities are along the coast, or else on navigable waterways, and you can dock your own boat there. == See == [[File:Us-ca-sanfran-goldengate.jpg|thumb|Golden Gate Bridge in [[San Francisco]]]] As the most geographically and culturally diverse state in the U.S., California offers an endless amount of things to see and do; even when you think you've experienced everything in one area of the state, a short trip to another part has plenty more to offer. Incredible and unique scenery, some of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, centuries old historical sites, unending cultural and entertainment options {{snd}}no matter where your interests lie, California will almost certainly offer it. ===Natural attractions=== [[Image:16-yosemite-half-dome.jpg|thumb|Half Dome at [[Yosemite National Park]]]] From white-sand beaches to snowcapped mountains, with lush forests and arid deserts in between, no other state offers such a wide a variety of natural landscapes as California does. California hosts the largest number of [[United States national parks|U.S. national parks]] with a total of nine. The most famous of these is '''[[Yosemite National Park]]''', featuring thundering waterfalls and geological behemoths like El Capitan and Half Dome. The surrounding [[Sierra Nevada]] also hosts nearby '''[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]''' which are both home to some of the world's largest living organisms, the giant sequoia. '''[[Redwood National Park]]''' in the far northwestern corner of the state and the surrounding area feature the world's tallest species of trees, the coast redwood. Tired of forests? The California desert is the site of some of the hottest and most arid places on Earth. '''[[Death Valley National Park]]''' is the location of the highest ever recorded temperature on the planet. If deserts are not your thing, beaches and California are practically synonymous. '''[[Big Sur]]''' and '''[[Point Reyes National Seashore|Point Reyes]]''' are notable examples of a scenic, winding stretch of unspoiled coastline that is typical of Northern California, featuring rocky cliffs and towering redwood trees that meet thundering ocean waves. Further south, the water is much warmer and suitable for all-day beach trips. Here, world-class beach towns such as '''[[Santa Barbara]]''', '''[[Malibu]]''', and those of '''[[Beach Cities|Orange County]]''' offer opportunities to catch waves, practice beach volleyball, or simply lounge around and tan underneath palm trees. If high-altitude adventure is what you are seeking, California has that too. At an elevation of 14,505 feet (4,421 meters) above sea level, '''[[Mount Whitney]]''' is the highest mountain in the lower 48 states. Snow activities such as skiing and snowboarding are plentiful in '''[[Lake Tahoe]]''' in the winter, while hiking and water recreation such as boating are popular in summer. [[File:Silver Lake.jpg|thumb|Silver Lake is in the [[Sierra Nevada|Sierra Nevada Range]] of eastern California]] While the national parks may receive most of the attention, California has the largest [[California state parks|state park system]] in the United States. These protected areas are found in places ranging from being adjacent to national parks to green landscapes in the middle of cities that offer a respite from the hectic urban rush. California's high population and its climate have also led to the creation of numerous [[Reservoirs in California|reservoirs]]. California marine animals (native and migrating) are easily found in the wild along the state's beaches, in lagoons and estuaries, such as sea otters, grey whales, elephant seals, harbor seals, sea lions as well as multitudes of tide pools dwellers including crabs, sea stars, anemone, and sea urchins. Timing is key: go at low tide to see lots of marine life. ===Monuments and architecture=== California has long been a canvas for architects and engineers to design and build some pioneering structures or to popularize styles that would define a time period. With two of the most prominent cities in the United States, [[Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco]], this is certainly notable with many of the structures and buildings that are found there. San Francisco is home to engineering marvels such as the '''Golden Gate Bridge''', Lombard Street (the most crooked street in the world), and cable cars that seemingly glide up and down the hills between the waterfront and rest of downtown. The many skyscrapers such as the Transamerica Pyramid have all been specifically designed to withstand powerful earthquakes. The stately '''Palace of Fine Arts''' and charming Painted Ladies of Alamo Square have served as backdrops countless of times for the city by the Bay. As the epicenter of the global entertainment industry, the '''Hollywood Sign''' is an icon of Los Angeles recognized worldwide. The nearby Hollywood Walk of Fame, Capitol Records Building, and numerous theaters all solidify the city's hold on entertainment. The Griffith Observatory and Walt Disney Concert Hall are also notable features in the cityscape, as is the imposing '''Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum''', the site of the 1932 and 1984 Summer Olympics. Other notable landmarks outside these two cities include the '''California State Capitol''' in [[Sacramento]] (modeled after the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.), labyrinthine '''Winchester Mystery House''' in [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]] with eerie origins, and the lavish '''Hearst Castle''' in the Central Coast town of [[San Simeon]] that anchors the landscape of the surrounding area. ===Historical sites=== From former Native American sites to suburban garages where modern technology was invented, California's centuries-long history is preserved in numerous historical sites and museums that are scattered throughout the state. One of the most comprehensive collections of state history from prehistory to contemporary times is housed in the '''Oakland Museum of California''' in [[Oakland]], with a vast collection of nearly 2 million items related to California history, art, and science. The legacy of Spanish colonial times remains with the string of '''twenty-one missions''' that span the length of much of the state from '''Mission San Diego de Alcalá ''' in the San Diego's [[San Diego/Old Town-Mission Valley|Old Town]] (founded in 1769) up to '''Mission San Francisco Solano''' in the Bay Area town of [[Sonoma]] (founded in 1823). Perhaps the most beautiful of these though, is '''Mission Santa Barbara''', which lent its name to [[Santa Barbara|the same city]] and is rightfully referred to as the "Queen of the Missions". '''El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument''' in downtown [[Los Angeles]] is another historical feature from the Spanish era, although the neighborhood underwent a major transformation during the period of Mexican rule (1821 to 1848) that now gives the area a distinct Mexican atmosphere, particularly along Olvera Street. Spain was not the only European power that colonized California, however. '''[[Fort Ross]]''' in the northern edge of the Bay Area was the southernmost Russian outpost in North America and was in operation from 1812 to 1841. Gold Rush legacies live on in [[Gold Country]], located in the northeastern part of the state. Following the discovery of gold at '''Sutter's Mill''' in [[Coloma (California)|Coloma]] in 1848, hundreds of thousands of fortune seekers from around the world made their way to California, establishing dozens of towns, most of which still retain their Old West charm and atmosphere. '''Old Sacramento''' in the [[Sacramento|state's capital city]] also sprung up as the commercial and transportation center of this era, with places of interest including the first terminus of the '''First Transcontinental Railroad''' and related California Railroad Museum. '''Cannery Row''' and much of the rest of [[Monterey (California)|Monterey]] provide a glimpse of the state's once lucrative fishing and canning industry during the first half of the 20th century, with carefully preserved wooden buildings that housed factory workers and engines, along with rustic (and still active) piers. ===Motion picture sets=== Countless [[fiction tourism|films and television series]] have been set in California. Much of the production is made within the 30-mile (50-km) studio zone around Los Angeles, but sceneries across the whole state are famous from the movies. Some franchises with their own itineraries are ''[[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]]'', ''[[Easy Rider]]'', ''[[Fast and Furious tourism|Fast and Furious]]'', ''[[Forrest Gump tour|Forrest Gump]]'', ''[[Kill Bill tourism|Kill Bill]]'' and ''[[Terminator tourism|The Terminator]]''. ===Itineraries=== *[[El Camino Real]] (The Royal Road) &mdash; a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of Alta California (modern day state of California) offering a fascinating look into California's history. [[U.S. Highway 101]] is also part of this El Camino Highway. *[[Pacific Coast Highway]] &mdash; tour up and down the iconic California coast, along [[Big Sur]], all the way up to its end where it merges into the US 101, which goes up to Washington state. * [[U.S. Highway 395]], [[Interstate 5#California|Interstate 5 & CA-99]], [[Interstate 10]], [[Interstate 80]], and the [[Lincoln Highway]] are major highways through California with their own Wikivoyage article. ==Do== [[File:Hollywood sign 053004.jpg|thumb|[[Hollywood]]]] * '''Ski''' at one of the great resorts near [[Lake Tahoe]] or [[Big Bear Lake|Big Bear]]. * Try your hand at '''surfing''' or work on your tan in [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]] or [[Santa Monica]]. * The long coastline offers some great [[Scuba diving in California|California scuba diving]]. * Go '''winetasting''' at one of the countless vineyards dotting [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. * Climb a mountain and camp in the [[Sierra Nevada]] or [[Shasta Cascades]]. * See California's amazing wildflowers. From March through May, the [https://theodorepayne.org/ California Wildflower Hotline] at +1 818 768-3533 offers the latest information on the best places to view wildflowers throughout Southern and Central California. The hotline and website are updated every Thursday evening. More than 90 wildflower sites are included. The hotline, founded in 1983, is run by the Theodore Payne Foundation for Wild Flowers and Native Plants. * Listen to music at the '''[http://www.northerncaliforniabluesfest.com Northern California Blues Festival]{{Dead link|date=October 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. The fastest growing festival of its kind comes in June to Sacramento County around Father's day each year and usually features a spectacular line-up of Blues artists. Event benefits Through the Mind, a non-profit providing free alternative mental health to America's Veterans. * Visit one of the many '''theme parks''', such as [[Disneyland]] or [[Six Flags Magic Mountain]]. ==Buy== {{see also|Shopping in the United States}} Usually US dollars and common credit or debit cards are the only accepted modes of payment. Many stores can take contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. You might have some luck with Mexican pesos near the immediate border area, but the exchange rates are usually terrible. California stores no longer give out free plastic bags, except for fresh grocery produce and meats. Reusable plastic bags cost a minimum of ten cents (by state law). Many stores sell cloth bags for one or two dollars. The state sales tax is 7.25%. However, counties and cities are allowed to levy their own sales taxes on top. In most areas you visit, the actual sales tax will be around 8% or 9%. In certain parts of the counties of Alameda and Los Angeles, actual sales tax is over 10%. In California, sales tax is levied on sales of nearly all tangible personal property. The main exceptions are regular groceries (including cold food-to-go) and prescription drugs. Hot prepared food is also usually taxed, with the exception of hot baked goods sold to go as standalone items. The state does not refund sales tax to travelers. The quintessential California souvenir depends a lot on which part of the state you visited, and what your interests are. The agricultural products change from citrus and avocadoes down south to strawberries in the middle, to almonds and wine as you move north. In LA, you might take home chocolates from See's Candies; in the Central Coast, keep an eye open for locally produced saltwater taffy; in the Bay Area, it's all about Ghirardelli Chocolate. Common themes for souvenir items include surfing, tie-dyed clothing, and redwood trees. ==Eat== {{See also|American cuisine|Fast food in the United States and Canada}} California doesn't have a single, well-defined cuisine of its own, but rather has a remarkably diverse food scene defined by its large population of immigrants of varied ethnic backgrounds and its access to one of the most productive agricultural regions on this side of the planet. The culinary style referred to as ''Californian cuisine'' or ''California fusion'' focuses on imaginative fusions of other cuisines, typically with heavy attention to presentation and an emphasis on using freshly prepared local ingredients, and has been somewhat subsumed into the general trend of "New American" cuisine. Even diners and small mom-and-pop fast food grills have elements of fusion cuisine, as it is common in California for them to serve both burgers and Mexican food. Californians take fresh food for granted. Most food you will eat in California was harvested within 300 miles (480 km) of your plate, with the exception of certain cereals and tropical crops. California is the leading global source of tree nuts (almonds, pistachios, walnuts) and also leads North America in the production of dairy products and many kinds of fruits and vegetables. Out-of-season crops are usually imported from South America, especially Chile and Brazil. With such a bounty for restaurants to draw upon, almost any dish you can imagine can be found somewhere in California. The cuisines of the Americas and Asia are heavily represented, and those of nearly every other country are also available to a lesser extent. More "North American" fare includes everything from burger shacks to vegetarian, organic and even completely vegan restaurants; the Californian love for food has made it one of the most diverse restaurant scenes in North America. The large cities have the most variety, while things get simpler and more meat-heavy as you get more rural. There are a handful of distinctive California dishes, although most of them have been adopted and adapted throughout the US. * Cobb salad – a cold salad of bacon or ham, chicken, boiled eggs, avocado, tomato, lettuce, and bleu cheese, with a vinaigrette dressing. Traditionally it's chopped fairly fine, but in modern times it's served in a variety of ways, and sometimes with ranch dressing instead of the traditional vinaigrette. It was invented at the Brown Derby restaurant in LA. * French dip sandwich – invented somewhere in LA, the exact location is subject to dispute, but it's a warm sandwich of thinly sliced roast beef on a roll that's dipped into beef broth. * Cioppino – a seafood stew developed by Italian immigrants in San Francisco, it resembles various Italian fish stews but includes local ingredients like chopped Dungeness crab. * The Mission Burrito – a San Francisco tradition characterized mainly by its great size and caloric content, featuring copious amounts of beans and rice in addition to cheese, meat and/or vegetables. * California Burrito – a San Diego specialty, it's a carne asada (spicy grilled steak) burrito, stuffed with french fries. * Santa Maria Barbeque – This is a central coast tradition. It's a bottom sirloin beef roast (the cut is locally known as tri-tip), where the fat hasn't been trimmed. It's suspended high above a hot oak fire, fat side up, so it cooks slowly and the fat melts and tenderizes the meat. It's usually served thinly sliced with tortillas or bread, salsa, onions, avocado, and other side dishes. *Chop Suey – the original "American Chinese" dish was popularized as cheap food for laborers during the California gold rush. While it's increasingly hard to find, many other American Chinese dishes were first created in San Francisco's Chinatown. Larger cities in California have some restaurants selling American Chinese food and others selling traditional Chinese dishes. In smaller cities, the Americanized version may be the only option on the menu. As a general rule, plain water is free at any restaurant. However, if you need a disposable cup, the cup will cost you 25 cents (by state law). You are allowed to bring your own reusable water cup or bottle. ===Regional chains=== California's classic burger chain '''In-N-Out''' has expanded to states as far east as [[Texas]]—see [[Fast food in the United States and Canada]] for more. Outside of fast food, California chains that you'll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere include: * {{eat | name=Ike's | alt= | url=https://www.ikessandwich.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-06-22 | content=Casual sandwich joint with more than 50 locations, mostly in California though a few are in Nevada. The menu varies by location, but in general about half the menu has meat and half is vegetarian; many vegetarian options can be made vegan. The sandwiches are filling and flavorful but not excessively heavy. }} *{{listing | name=Farmer Boys | alt= | url=https://www.farmerboys.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5435711 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=A farm-to-table restaurant chain featuring a burger shack menu that is freshly cooked from local produce. Hamburgers, sandwiches, and salads, plus diner-style breakfast options served all day. }} *{{listing | name=Lemonade | alt= | url=https://lemonadela.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=locations are mostly in Southern California, plus two in San Francisco | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$15 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=Poke bowls, chef bowls, sandwiches, and 10 different types of freshly made lemonade. This is California fusion food without the high-end budget. Take your friend who's always bored with the same-ol' stuff. Don't neglect the side dishes. Vegan options. }} ==Drink== Generally, alcohol is available in more places in California than it is in other states. A person with valid ID of age can purchase alcohol at supermarkets or liquor stores; these are regulated by the state but not owned or controlled by them. All but the smallest communities have restaurants or bars that sell beer. Some places are permitted to have a bar in one part of their establishment, and six-packs of beer for sale and offsite consumption in another part. California is known for its fine [[wine]]s and gourmet beers. As of March 2026, there are 154 established American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) across the state of California, which is the highest number of any state. [[Napa Valley|Napa]], [[Sonoma Valley|Sonoma]] and [[Mendocino County|Mendocino]] are premier wine districts north of San Francisco, but there are others in the Central Coast region ([[Paso Robles]], [[Solvang]]) and even down near [[Temecula]] where suitable microclimates have been found. The inland Central Valley region (especially near [[Lodi (California)|Lodi]]) has hotter summers and traditionally produced inexpensive bulk wines, but quality has been improving with winemaking innovations. For beer, California also has a lot of microbreweries. Sierra Nevada, in [[Chico (California)|Chico]], is one of the biggest microbreweries in North America. In the [[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] the mid-sized brewery Firestone Walker in Paso Robles is a good addition to the local wineries in the area; [[Ventura]] has had several microbreweries over the years. In [[San Diego]], Stone Brewing Company offers a great variety of beers that can be purchased throughout the state. Los Angeles has several microbreweries, especially in the Arts District. There are over 200 microbreweries in California, and many bars in large- and mid-size cities that have 20 or more beers (often both foreign and domestic and ranging from light beer to flavored stouts) on tap. In addition to microbreweries, there are a handful of distilleries in California; one even makes date vodka. === Legal issues === Californians tend to view wine as a natural accompaniment of food or socializing, overlooking its alcoholic content more easily than with distilled spirits. However police crackdowns on drinking and driving are noticeable, with roadblocks and random checks. Conviction for driving with a blood alcohol level over .08 percent is likely to bring serious legal and financial consequences. Drivers with a lower blood alcohol can still be convicted for '''DUI''' (driving under the influence) if they fail field sobriety tests, such as walking a straight line. You must be 21 years of age to buy or drink any alcoholic beverage. Underage drinking is taken very seriously, so if you want a drink and appear to be under 30, you should be ready to present identification showing your age. The only acceptable proof-of-age documents are [[passports]] from any country, and identity documents issued by US government agencies (e.g., drivers' licenses issued by any US state). Foreign drivers' licenses and foreign identity cards are ''not'' legally acceptable as proof-of-age documentation, and people who are unable to produce a passport or valid United States ID will be refused service. Only original identity documents will be accepted; photographs or photocopies will not be accepted. ==Stay healthy== ===Air pollution=== While [[air pollution]] levels have dropped dramatically since the 1970s, more than ninety percent of Californians live in counties with unhealthy air. Visitors to the mountains or the rural regions of Northern California will have nothing to worry about, but the overreliance on cars, low rainfall, and surrounding mountains in Los Angeles, the Central Valley, and the Bay Area create some of America's worst air quality. It gets particularly bad when a layer of cold air gets "trapped" by a layer of warmer air above it ("inversion") which is particularly likely in basins. While air quality is rarely at levels that would be considered immediately dangerous, visitors should heed alerts and be especially cautious when any local wildfires are burning. Occasionally, there will be an '''advisory''' issued for air stagnation, which is a phenomenon involving an air mass that cannot move and therefore stagnates over an area for an extensive period of time. Air pollutants can cause breathing difficulties for those with existing respiratory conditions. If you have a respiratory condition, refer to the '''[https://airquality.weather.gov/ National Weather Service]''' website on air quality to see if any such advisories have been issued for the areas you might visit. ===Disease=== [[File:MOUSE, CALIFORNIA (peromyscus californicus) (5-29-09) cerro alto campground road, slo co, ca -01 (3577515146).jpg|alt=California deermouse|thumb|This cute, large-eared mouse and its tan-colored siblings can carry a deadly virus.]] Deer mice can transmit a virus that causes '''hantaviral pulmonary syndrome'''. You are most likely to get infected if you breathe in dust containing their excrement (feces, urine, and saliva). Realistically, however, hantavirus is of very little concern to the traveler, as only a few people get infected each year, and most of them are exposed on the job, but sensible precautions should be applied. Do '''not''' venture in any wild animal's den or touch deer mice or their excrement. If you need to clean up after rodents, wear waterproof gloves, eye protection, and a high-quality respirator mask, and use disinfectants and wet-mopping techniques, rather than brooms and vacuums (both of which spread virus-laden dust). If you do get infected, treatment usually involves a week or two in the hospital. The main defense against the virus is prevention. ==Stay safe== [[File:Elephant seals fighting.jpg|thumb|Elephant seals fighting, [[San Simeon]]]] ===California–Mexico border=== Due to California's proximity to the international boundary with Mexico, visitors should be cautious while in areas near the border. * Beware Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) checkpoints and patrols. CBP is legally allowed to stop you or your vehicle solely in order to inquire about your citizenship and residency status within 100 miles (160 km) of any international border (in this instance, the US–Mexico border). ''Non-whites, and especially Latinos, should expect to be profiled, targeted, and harassed by these government agents.'' *Know where you are at all times. Follow good safety procedures and use common sense when making decisions. * Do not pick up [[Hitchhiking|hitchhikers]]. If the person is undocumented or carrying drugs, you could be mistaken for a trafficker. * Keep valuables, including spare change, out of sight and lock your vehicle. * Avoid traveling in well-marked but unofficial "trails." * Avoid hiking or camping in areas of major border activity. If you are visiting a national or state park, consult park staff to help plan backcountry travel in safer areas. ====Crossing the border==== Thousands of U.S citizens visit the state of [[Baja California (state)|Baja California, Mexico]] from California every year, with the majority of travelers returning from an enjoyable experience. However, a minority of travelers do experience difficulties and serious inconveniences while traveling to Mexico. Before traveling to Mexico, ensure that you have the proper documentation and are familiar with the recommendations for foreign travel from the '''[https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Mexico.html U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs]''' There are six border crossings between California and Mexico: two between San Diego and [[Tijuana]], one between [[Tecate]] and Tecate, two between [[Calexico]] and [[Mexicali]], and one between Andrade and [[Los Algodones]]. The United States operates a consulate-general in Tijuana and a consulate in Mexicali. Mexico operates Consulates in Calexico, Fresno, Los Angeles, Oxnard, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose and Santa Ana. ===Crime=== The usual inner city crime can be found in the worst parts of [[Los Angeles]], [[San Francisco]], and [[Oakland]]. Central Valley cities, such as [[Sacramento]], [[Stockton (California)|Stockton]], and [[Fresno]] also have gang problems. Northern coastal cities such as [[Eureka]] have an ongoing problem with significant drug activity and property crimes. However, most California cities are safe. As long as you take basic precautions against petty crime, such as keeping your phone and other valuables out of sight in tourist areas, and stay out of obviously run-down neighborhoods, you will probably have a safe and pleasant visit. If you are traveling along the '''Pacific Coast Highway''' or '''Highway 101''', you may notice there are a substantial number of hitch-hikers along the way. Most are harmless youthful travelers or people who just need to get somewhere for lack of other means, while others may be a bit less safe to pick up. Use your best judgement, and, unless you feel confident in the people to whom you're giving a ride, it's probably better not to offer one while you're travelling alone. '''Drugs''' are illegal in California, with the noted exception of '''[[cannabis|marijuana]]'''. Adults 21 and over are allowed to possess, use, and cultivate small amounts of marijuana, so long as it is not consumed in public or possessed on the grounds of a school or day care center. The maximum amount a person may possess is one ounce of marijuana or 8 grams of concentrates. Some dispensaries sell marijuana products to the general public, although others remain restricted to those who have a medical marijuana recommendation from a doctor. Delivery services are also available. Marijuana is still illegal under federal law, so do not carry marijuana across state lines—even to another state where it is legal—as this will be considered drug trafficking and subject to harsh punishment. Also, do not take marijuana onto federal land, including any of the dozens of national parks and national forests in California, or onto flights even within California, as the TSA is a federal agency. If you find yourself in an emergency situation (of any kind), dial '''9-1-1''' on your phone or from any (available) phone. It is a free call from a payphone. ===Earthquakes=== {{Infobox|Earthquake early warnings|Since 2019, California has rolled out an earthquake early warning system called [https://www.shakealert.org/ '''ShakeAlert'''], whose alerts can be received by most smartphones. There are [https://earthquake.ca.gov/get-alerts/ '''various methods'''] that mobile devices can receive alerts for ''imminent'' shaking: * '''Wireless Emergency Alerts''' (WEAs) are sent to capable mobile devices with cellular reception that have ''not'' opted out from receiving emergency alerts. They will appear as an urgent notification with brief instructions to safety coupled with an attention-grabbing sound. * '''Earthquake early warning mobile apps''' can push live notifications to devices when the warning system detects an occurring quake. Such apps typically require enabling '''active location services''' to determine if the device is located inside the area of possible impact. The United States Geological Survey provides [https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/how-do-i-sign-shakealertr-earthquake-early-warning-system '''information about apps for iOS and Android that utilize the ShakeAlert system.'''] * '''Many newer Android devices''' can receive earthquake alerts natively without needing to download an app. This system also requires '''enabling location services''' to determine if it's located in the impacted zone. These alerts will appear either as a notification bar for weak quakes or a full-screen alert for strong quakes with instructions to '''drop, cover, and hold'''. Wireless Emergency Alerts are sent for earthquake events exceeding magnitude 5.0 ''and'' in areas expected to receive shaking intensity of light (Mercalli intensity IV) or greater. For Android alerts, expect to receive them for events exceeding magnitude 4.5 ''and'' in areas where weak shaking (Mercalli intensity III) or stronger is expected. Mobile apps may provide options to customize the threshold of intensity to receive an alert. Warning times are limited to '''seconds''' before the arrival of shaking, and will vary depending on the distance from the epicenter. If you are located at or near the epicenter, you may receive an alert ''during or after'' shaking arrives! Warning times tend to improve the further you are from the epicenter – up to tens of seconds of warning even at a far distance.}} [[Earthquakes]] that are large enough to cause extensive damage are rare, but remain a matter of reality for the state. Most earthquakes are mild and last for a couple of seconds. You're not likely to encounter one during your trip, but if you do, you'll probably go home with nothing more exciting than a story about it being over before you figured out that it was an earthquake. When you feel the shaking, act quickly to '''drop, cover, and hold on'''. The biggest dangers in an earthquake are falling objects (such as books or bottles flying off shelves – or the whole shelf with all of its contents, if it's not properly mounted) and windows, which may shatter explosively. In the event of an earthquake, '''face away from windows''' and '''hide under any sturdy table or desk''' – and then hold on to that table, because the shaking could cause the table to slide across the floor. Contrary to popular belief, do not stand in a door frame; these are structurally weaker spots in modern buildings, and they provide no protection against falling objects. If you are indoors, '''do not run outside!''' Falling building facades are more likely to cause severe injuries than anything inside. If outdoors, stay away from buildings (especially brick chimneys, which may spray bricks around a large area), and stay out from under power lines. If you are driving, your first thought will probably be that something is wrong with your car. Immediately slow down and then stop at the nearest safe place. When the shaking is over (the ground ''and'' your nerves), it's okay to start driving again, but drive cautiously, as traffic signals will likely be out, the road surface may be cracked, other drivers may be panicking, and there may be trees or damaged vehicles blocking the road ahead. ===Deserts=== Along the southern most border of California-Nevada, as well as the border of California-Arizona, California has elaborate desert landscapes which extend into the south central regions of the state, the most famous (or infamous) being the region known as [[Death Valley]], where several tourists and hikers have indeed met their fate while exploring the region. If you are planning on traveling or hiking into these locations, '''follow desert survival guidelines'''. Be sure to take plenty of water (at least one gallon/four litres per person, per day), sunscreen and wear light clothing. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Be sure to have a full tank of gasoline prior to traveling by car into these regions, as many desert locations are extremely remote and without any services for several miles (in some cases nearly 100 miles / 160 km). To break down in these regions could be extremely unpleasant in the best case scenario, tragic in the worst. Also, it is best to hike during the earlier part of the day, as thunderstorms tend to develop suddenly during the afternoon. In the event you encounter inclement weather conditions, seek high ground immediately! Thunderstorms can cause flash flooding in canyons and other low-lying areas. ===Tsunamis=== The incidence of earthquakes in California raises the concern for potential threats of tsunamis. Though tsunamis occur very rarely, a great deal of California's coastline is in a tsunami zone. For more information on the state's hazard assessment, visit the '''[https://nctr.pmel.noaa.gov/state/wa/index.html NOAA Center for Tsunami Research]''' website. ===Wildfires=== [[Wildfires]] are common between May and October, but can also occur at other times. Precautions include the following: clear the area around campfires in campgrounds, never leave flames unattended (even artificial ones), do not throw cigarette ends out of a car, and avoid unnecessary weapon use in dry areas.<!-- My understanding of laws in California is that the latter is illegal anyway. --> The strongest impact from fires is smoke. Smoke affects areas dramatically exceeding the size of the root fire. Travelers with respiratory issues should consult visitor information sites before visiting areas where fires are occurring, or anywhere in the path of the smoke, which can spread across large portions of the state during the worst wildfires. ===Mudslides=== Fire season is followed by the rainy season, and hilly areas where the vegetation has burned are particularly vulnerable to destructive and sometimes deadly mudslides. Heed any evacuation warnings that are issued. ===Wild animals=== '''[[Bears]]''' are found in the Sierra Nevada and all neighboring parts of the state. They're rarely dangerous, but should never be approached. If you are camping, you need to ensure that food, food waste, and other scented items such as soap and toothpaste are secure from them. '''[[Mountain lions]]''' are rarely seen, but live in all mountainous parts of the state and once in a while attack humans. If you see one, yell and wave your arms to make yourself appear as large as possible. '''Coyotes''' are quite common, even in relatively populated areas like the Hollywood Hills. They pose little danger to humans, but will attack dogs, cats and other domestic animals. Many animals, most notoriously bats, can carry rabies. When hiking, watch for [[ticks]], which can carry Lyme disease, and [[rattlesnakes]]. California is home to 2 potentially deadly species of spiders - the black widow and the brown recluse - if you don't go poking around abandoned structures and woodpiles, you're very unlikely to encounter them. If you're bitten by any animal, seek immediate medical attention. Shark attacks have happened once in a great while at California beaches, and deadly sharks such as great whites do roam the California coast, but unless a shark has been repeatedly sighted by a specific beach (the local media will broadcast warnings) this is an extremely remote possibility. ===Poisonous plants and mushrooms=== '''[[Poison oak]]''' can be found almost anywhere in the state, but is particularly common in Southern California, the Central Coast, the Bay Area, and any Coast Redwood woodlands. It's toxic throughout the year, even during the winter when it's lost its leaves. Sensitivity varies by individual, but many people can end up with a very nasty, blistering rash by contacting it. See the linked article for treatment options. California is also home to several '''lethal''' varieties of '''mushrooms''', which can be particularly dangerous to would-be gatherers because some of them resemble edible varieties found elsewhere in the world. Even if you're an expert on mushroom varieties where you live, don't assume you're safe gathering them in California. The poisonous oleander plant is native to California, and the ''Ricinus'' aka castor bean plant, which is the source of ricin and castor oil, is common there. ==Respect== California is filled with a very diverse group of people. Northern and Southern California have notably different cultures, while the rural areas in the Central Valley and Eastern portions of the state differ even more significantly. Sensitive topics include immigration, water rights, and land-use. Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area are especially well known for being some of the most politically liberal areas in the US, and continue to serve as some of the world's major centers of counterculture. Conversely, parts of California, particularly the Central Valley and most areas north of Sacramento, are conservative. However, don't assume any individual's political leaning based on where they live. * California's delicate ecosystem demands our utmost care. Conserving water, adhering to fire safety guidelines, and respecting wildlife habitats are fundamental. * Staying informed about the state's water crisis and adopting water-saving habits is crucial for preserving this precious resource. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== Many countries have consulates in and around [[Los Angeles#Consulates|Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco#Consulates|San Francisco]], with a much smaller number in [[San Bernardino#Consulates|San Bernardino]], [[San Diego#Consulates|San Diego]], and [[Sacramento#Consulates|Sacramento]]. In addition to the above, Mexico has consulates in Calexico, Oxnard, San Jose, Santa Ana, and Fresno. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are only available in the country's language. Some websites are available only in another language. ==See also== The following are additional Wikivoyage articles regarding the history and itineraries for travel within California. The articles also list places of historical or natural significance along the way: {{See also|North America itineraries}} * '''[[El Camino Real]]''' (''The Royal Road'') is a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of California. Stretching over 600 miles (1000 km) from San Diego in the south to Sonoma in the north, the route traverses much of the state and has been a popular traveler itinerary for California motorists for nearly a century. :* The '''[[Pacific Coast Highway]]''' is officially California State Route 1 (CA-1) is one of California's slower state routes, closely following the coastline, which in many places is dominated by cliffs and mountains. The alternatives, including '''[[U.S._Highway_101#California|US-101]]''' and '''[[Interstate 5#California|Interstate 5]]''' (with CA-1 sometimes concurrent with US-101), are for those who want to travel more quickly, while CA-1 is the best route for sightseeing California's beautiful coast. El Camino Real lines is best accessed from US Highway 101 and the Pacific Highway (CA-1) between San Diego and Sonoma. * '''[[Arroyo del Valle Trail]]''' is south of the city of Livermore, which is in the Bay Area region of California. The Arroyo Del Valle trail is part of a longer trail network that extends from Livermore, California, through the Diablo Range to Fremont, California at Mission Peak Regional Park. It's about 30 mi (48 km) in all and later parts of the trail network are quite remote, but the part described in this article is used by the general public more frequently than the rest of the hike due to its proximity to the cities of the Tri-Valley. * '''[[East Shore Trail]]''' goes from the northern staging area to the southeast staging area at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore, California. It is approximately 7 miles (11 km) long, with optional extensions at each end. * The '''[[Fiction tourism|Fictional tourism article]]''' aims at locations around the world famous from literature, motion pictures, television series, video games, comic books and other media. Numerous movies and television shows, such as [[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]], [[Terminator tourism|Terminator]], [[Cocoa Beach#Lori Wilson Park|I Dream of Jeannie]], [[Studio City#Brady Residence|Brady Bunch]], etc. have been filmed in Southern California which also served as a backdrop for many of these same films. [[Universal Studios Hollywood|Universal Studios]] even have a theme park to allow the public to get an up close tour of their production studios. * The '''[[Iron Horse Regional Trail]]''' is a biking and walking trail in the East Bay. Formerly a railroad for transporting fruit and grain, it's now a 32-mile (51-kilometer) paved "rail trail" through Concord, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Danville, San Ramon, Dublin, and Pleasanton. * The '''[[Ohlone Wilderness Trail]]''' is a hiking route in the East Bay. It goes from Livermore to Fremont in California across numerous mountain ranges and canyons, and is by no means an easy hike. * California has several dozen state parks that focus on historic locations. The '''[[Olompali–Petaluma–Sonoma historic parks]]''' just north of the San Francisco Bay have significant connections to the rancho era of Mexican Republic. This itinerary will take you through these three state historic parks in a day trip from the Bay area. Each is near a different city in California Wine Country. * The '''[[San Francisco Crosstown Trail]]''' crosses [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco]] from its northwestern edge at Lands End to its southeastern corner at Candlestick Point. Designed by a group of local volunteers, the route connects various hiking paths in local parks with sidewalks and staircases in residential neighborhoods to create a continuous 17-mile (27-km) trail. See also the [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco article]] for a list of in-city itineraries. ==Go next== * '''[[Arizona]]''' – Home to the [[Grand Canyon]], Arizona borders California to the southeast across the Colorado River. * '''[[Nevada]]''' – California's eastern neighbor is best known as the home of [[Las Vegas]], although towns such as [[Reno]] and [[Carson City]] are also good day-trip opportunities for visitors wanting to explore the Silver State. * '''[[Oregon]]''' – Sharing a border to the north, Oregon is home to impressive mountains and extensive forests. * '''[[Hawaii]]''' – Many visitors to America's fiftieth state depart through California on their journey across the Pacific, but it is not a neighboring state and requires a 5-hour flight to get there. * '''[[Baja California]]''' – Those traveling across the border to [[Mexico]] can visit some of that country's most impressive sea and landscapes. [[Tijuana]], [[Ensenada]] and [[Mexicali]] are also good day-trip options for visitors staying in Southern California to explore another country without going to far. {{usableregion}} {{isPartOf|United States}} {{geo|37|-119.5|zoom=6}} {{related|Off-road_vehicles_in_California}} {{related|California_desert_camping}} jg02z0cx3b1kid7n1ixfrombb5uyqu9 5288916 5288915 2026-06-06T17:21:54Z Anyone150 1516949 /* Major highways */ 5288916 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Antelope Valley banner.jpg|caption=California Poppy Preserve in the Antelope Valley}} One of the most diverse states in the [[United States of America|Union]], '''California''' has a culture ranging from the easygoing surf spots on the beaches of [[Southern California]] to the glamor of [[Hollywood]], and the counterculture and thriving businesses of the [[Bay Area]]. The state, which is on the [[West Coast (United States)|west coast of the U.S.]], also varies greatly in natural beauty, from redwood forests on the [[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] to the ski resorts of the rugged [[Sierra Nevada]] mountains and the harsh desert of [[Death Valley]]. The largest state in the U.S. by population and the third largest by area, California boasts world-famous attractions and sights: [[Disneyland]], the [[Golden Gate Bridge]], the [[Napa Valley]] wine country, and the tallest mountain in the [[United States of America#Geography|contiguous United States]], [[Mount Whitney]]. Granted statehood in 1850 following the California Gold Rush, it bears the nickname "the '''Golden State'''", and the sites of the former goldfields are known as the [[Gold Country]]. ==Regions== California is geographically varied, ranging from warm beaches to snowy mountains to fertile farmland to extreme desert. In the middle of the state is the farmland of the Central Valley, which provides produce to the whole country. The conventional wisdom is that there is a huge difference—and also rivalry—between the Southern California area around Los Angeles (or as Californians often say, “LA”) and Northern California centered around the San Francisco Bay Area. There is also a cultural clash between the large liberal coastal cities, and more conservative parts of the state such as Orange County, the Central Valley, and the far northeast part of the state. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Ca-regions.png | regionmapsize=480px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] | region1color=#b2b24d | region1description=Home to the world's tallest trees, the coast redwoods, as well as rugged coastlines and remote nature adventures. | region2name=[[Shasta Cascades]] | region2color=#c375a0 | region2description=Lakes and mountains off the beaten path in the state's northeast corner. | region3name=[[Sacramento Valley]] | region3color=#5bc7c0 | region3description=Home of [[Sacramento]], the state capital, and the urban areas around the city. | region4name=[[Gold Country]] | region4color=#d2d20d | region4description=Historic foothills leading east to the Sierras; the 1848 discovery of gold in this region brought many Americans to California and helped California become a state less than five years after the territory had been acquired. | region5name=[[Sierra Nevada]] | region5color=#5ea54a | region5description=California's alpine and skiing region, including [[Yosemite National Park]] and [[Lake Tahoe]]. | region6name=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]] | region6color=#d06666 | region6description=Home to the cities of [[San Francisco]], [[Oakland]], and [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]], as well as the technology-centered [[Silicon Valley]] and sophisticated [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. | region7name=[[San Joaquin Valley]] | region7color=#a0a0c0 | region7description=Breadbasket of California and home to a large percentage of America's fruit and vegetable supply. | region8name=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] | region8color=#5fb388 | region8description=An isolated stretch of land that features cool mountains and a rugged coastline. | region9name=[[Southern California]] | region9color=#ac663d | region9description=Home to the metropolis of [[Los Angeles]], as well as [[San Diego]], [[Disneyland]], [[Hollywood]], and miles of famous beaches. | region10name=[[Desert (California)|Desert]] | region10color=#d5a90b | region10description=Palm trees, Joshua trees, blazing sun, ghost towns and quirky resorts. Miles of [[Route 66]]. Home of [[Death Valley National Park|Death Valley]] and [[Joshua Tree National Park]]s. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b2b24d|title=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]]|wikidata=Q156186,Q109651,Q108087,Q156361}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c375a0|title=[[Shasta Cascades]]|wikidata=Q156374,Q156188,Q156350,Q109695,Q156340,Q109705,Q156342,Q156181}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5bc7c0|title=[[Sacramento Valley]]|wikidata=Q271601,Q271609,Q156377,Q196014,Q109709,Q108131}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d2d20d|title=[[Gold Country]]|wikidata=Q156370,Q109681,Q156353,Q156177,Q108093,Q271613,Q156346,Q156191}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5ea54a|title=[[Sierra Nevada]]|wikidata=Q108077,Q156366}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d06666|title=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]]|wikidata=Q108117,Q108067,Q108137,Q108083,Q108058,Q107146,Q62,Q108101,Q108122,Q110739}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a0a0c0|title=[[San Joaquin Valley]]|wikidata=Q108499,Q108503,Q109690,Q109661,Q271915,Q156358,Q109686,Q108047}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5fb388|title=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]]|wikidata=Q108072,Q109656,Q49014,Q108106,Q108127}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#ac663d|title=[[Southern California]] and [[Desert (California)|Desert]]|wikidata=Q104994,Q5925,Q108143,Q169952,Q108111,Q108053,Q109670}} ==Cities== [[File:San Francisco with approaching fog.jpg|thumb|400px|San Francisco, partly enshrouded in fog]] {{mapframe}} Here are a few of California's most notable cities, listed from north to south. <!--Please note: This is just a sampler of the cities most visited, with some geographic spread. If you want to add a new city, please locate the correct sub-region article that your city resides in and add the city there instead. --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Eureka]]|url=|lat=40.801944|long=-124.163611|wikidata=Q488702}} – former logging town with charming Victorian city center, waterfront trails, and Redwood Sky Walk featuring the world's tallest tree species. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Redding]]|url=|lat=40.576667|long=-122.370278|wikidata=Q495361}} – Sundial Bridge and gateway to a plethora of outdoor adventures ranging from underground caverns to some of the highest volcanic peaks in the United States. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Sacramento]]|url=|lat=38.555556|long=-121.468889|wikidata=Q18013}} – the laid-back state capital with historic Gold Rush-era quarter of the city, Old Sacramento. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Francisco]]|url=|lat=37.7857 |long=-122.4061 |wikidata=Q62}} – Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, America's largest Chinatown, cable cars, and Victorian houses. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Jose (California)|San Jose]]|url=|lat=37.333333|long=-121.9|wikidata=Q16553}} – south of San Francisco, this city is the center of Silicon Valley, and is home to many technology companies and the (in)famous Winchester Mystery House. *{{marker|type=city| name=[[Santa Barbara]] | lat=34.421 | long=-119.698| wikidata=Q159288}} – city on a south-facing coast which styles itself, with some justification, as "the American Riviera." *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Los Angeles]]|url=|lat=34.05|long=-118.25|wikidata=Q65}} – the state's largest city, and 2nd-largest in the nation. L.A. is home to Hollywood, Venice, The Getty Center, and Griffith Park. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Palm Springs]]|url=|lat=33.830278|long=-116.545278|wikidata=Q488004}} – desert recreation with golf, spas, resorts, casinos, and the famous aerial tramway. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Diego]]|url=| lat=32.7157 | long=-117.1547 ||wikidata=Q16552}} – Balboa Park, Old Town, SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, and nearby Tijuana, Mexico. ==Other destinations== [[File:4076-joshua-tree RJ.JPG|thumb|[[Joshua Tree National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Big Sur]]|lat=36.27028|long=-121.80750|wikidata=Q859413}} can be loosely defined as the stretch of coastline between Carmel and San Simeon, and the steep cliffs, rocky coast, churning waves, abundant wildlife, redwoods, and remoteness make it a stunningly beautiful drive. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Death Valley|Death Valley National Park]]|lat=36.45|long=-117.09|wikidata=Q242111}} – a place of legend and a place of trial. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Disneyland]]|lat=33.8091|long=-117.9190|wikidata=Q1229066}} – this world-famous amusement park opened its doors in 1955 and today draws around 16 million yearly visitors. The California Adventure theme park was added in 2001 and provides attractions inspired by the state's scenery and movie industry. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Joshua Tree National Park]]|lat=33.86|long=-115.89|wikidata=Q735202}} – combines two different desert ecosystems anchored by the peculiar-looking namesake tree species. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Tahoe]]|lat=39.091667|long=-120.041667|wikidata=Q169962}} – a deep blue mountain lake, popular for water sports in the summer and skiing in the winter. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Napa Valley]]|lat=38.50|long=-122.32|wikidata=Q1151105}} – the premier wine region of the United States, with spas, wine tasting and wine tours; the historic heart of [[California Wine Country]]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]|lat=36.56472|long=-118.77337}} – these twin parks hold monuments to nature's size, beauty, and diversity, including the largest tree on Earth, the General Sherman Tree. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Yosemite National Park]]|lat=37.7333|long=-119.5500|wikidata=Q180402}} – one of the first wilderness parks in the United States, the site of natural wonders such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and numerous waterfalls. California also has [[California state parks|many state parks]], approximately half of which are near urban centers. This is in addition to the state's eight [[United States national parks#California|national parks]] found across the state. ==Understand== [[File:Mission Santa Clara.jpg|thumb|Mission [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]]]] ===History=== {{see also|Indigenous cultures of North America|Old West}} Human settlement in California goes back 50,000 years; California was home to 30 different tribal groups prior to the arrival of European explorers in the 1500s and now over 120 tribes are left. The first Europeans to discover what is now California were the Spanish and Portuguese. Spanish colonialism was established through '''[[El Camino Real|twenty-one missions]]''' built throughout California by the late 1700s. These missions still survive today, stretching from [[San Diego]] on the Mexican border to [[Sonoma]] in the northern San Francisco Bay Area. After the Mexican War for Independence in 1821, California became a part of [[Mexico]] for 25 years until 1846, when many of its residents declared a sovereign nation (the '''California Republic''', also called the ''Bear Flag Republic'') before it was annexed by the United States in 1846, and has since then had an image as the "land of opportunity" and the final destination of luck-seekers. The 1848 discovery of gold in the Sierra Nevada mountains kicked off the '''California Gold Rush''', and California's non-native population surged from 15,000 to over 300,000 within two years. People who moved to California during the Gold rush were often called "49ers", a term that was adopted as the name for the San Francisco [[American Football|football]] team. California became a state in 1850, and its population has increased steadily since then. [[Los Angeles]], a city which once boasted one of the longest streetcar networks in the world, boomed through defense contractors and later converted to a "freeway" city after the streetcars were dismantled. The city hosted Olympic Games twice (1932 & 1984) at times when the Olympic movement was in crisis and the games were largely seen as successes for the city as well as the Olympic movement. [[Post-war United States|In the post-war years]], California (especially the [[Bay Area]]) became a hotspot of counterculture, including popular music, the anti-war movement, and the LGBT community. Since the late 20th century, the state and in particular, the Bay Area, has been at the forefront of the Digital Revolution, with innovations such as personal computers and smartphones having been introduced through '''Silicon Valley'''. Today California is the most populous state in the US with over 38 million residents. Taken by itself, California would rank as one of the world's top ten economies and Californian places like Silicon Valley, Hollywood and San Francisco are known globally and have shaped not only American but world culture. Politically, California is seen as a solidly "blue" state: it has a two-thirds majority of Democrats in both chambers of the legislature and often provides the Democratic party with particularly left-wing ideas, especially on social issues. That said, the state actually contains a lot of political diversity, with conservative views prevalent in much of the state outside the densely populated Bay Area and Los Angeles County, particularly in the fertile but relatively sparsely populated [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. ===Landscape=== [[File:Giant sequoias in Sequoia National Park 2013.jpg|thumb|Sequoia National Park]] With over 160,000 square miles (411,000 km²), the landscape of California is vast and varied, and the stereotypical beach paradise is only the tip of the iceberg. The state contains extremes in elevation, with [[Mount Whitney]] at 14,505 ft (4,421 m) being the tallest mountain in the [[lower 48]] states, while less than 200 miles (320 km) away [[Death Valley]], at 282 ft (82 m) below sea level, is North America's lowest point. California's border to the west is made up of a rugged coastline along the Pacific Ocean. The coastal mountains rise up from the ocean and are home to redwood trees in their northern half. Moving eastward, the Central Valley bisects California from north-to-south, before giving way to the Sierra Nevada mountains, which are home to [[Yosemite National Park]], [[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]], and other natural wonders. The southeastern part of California is dominated by desert, which covers 25% of California's total area. The [[Mojave Desert|Mojave]] is a high desert, with elevations ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 ft (1,000 to 2,000 m) above sea level. This area receives less than six inches (152 mm) of rain each year. ===Climate=== [[File:Surfers At Steamer Lane Santa Cruz CA. - panoramio.jpg|alt=Surfers on the water|thumb|Wetsuits were invented in Santa Cruz because the ocean is so cold.]] The state's climate varies from subtropical at the coast to the brutal winters of the mountains to one of the world's hottest regions in the deserts. Rainfall is more common in the northern part of the state than in the south, and snow is rare except in the mountains. Most precipitation occurs during winter, but California experiences frequent droughts. This has prompted people to install drought-resistant landscaping. In some years, farms lie fallow due to lack of water for irrigation. The hottest temperature ever recorded in the Western Hemisphere, 134°F (56.6°C) was at Death Valley in 1913, and temperatures here regularly exceed 120°F (50°C) during the summer. In contrast, winter temperatures in the mountains can drop below 0°F (-20°C). In between these extremes there are great local variations in climate due to topography and the influence of the Pacific Ocean upon precipitation and temperature, with temperatures becoming increasingly moderated nearer the coastline. For swimming, the Pacific Ocean can be surprisingly cold even in July due to currents. September and October are the best months for swimming. Another surprise in coastal areas is the presence of cool temperatures and fog in the mornings through most of the year. To experience California as a sunny place, plan to sleep late. ===People=== California is a very diverse state with many ethnic groups. California has large populations of people of varied backgrounds such as Mexican, Salvadoran, Guatemalan, Armenian, Iranian, Jewish, Chinese, Russian, Filipino, Eastern Indian, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Thai, and Hmong. California also has large populations of African Americans and Native Americans. Although typically considered to be a liberal state, Californians have a wide variety of political views which tend to vary based on region. The Central Valley, [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]], San Diego, and Palm Springs area tend to be more conservative, while [[Los Angeles County]] and the [[Bay Area|San Francisco Bay Area]] are among the most progressive areas in the country. California is a large and diverse state, with different cultures in each region. ===Holidays=== California observes all the [[Holidays of the United States|federal holidays]], except Columbus Day, and adds Farmworkers Day on March 31st (or nearest weekday). However, some cities such as [[Coronado (California)|Coronado]] that have a large population of federal workers or military personnel do observe Columbus Day. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitcalifornia.com/ Visit California] website ==Talk== [[File:Golden Hour at Emerald Bay.jpg|thumb|Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe]] Although the California Constitution states that '''English''' is the official language of the state of California, in reality, California is a multilingual state. American English is the main language and '''[[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]''' is the ''de facto'' second language, and a knowledge of even rudimentary Spanish is useful in most cities from Sacramento to San Diego. Los Angeles has some of the largest Hispanic populations north of Mexico. The state is highly influenced by Spanish culture due to its history, and it is not uncommon to see store and street signs written in both English and Spanish. "Spanglish" (a mixture of English and Spanish) is often used and heard throughout the state. Even people with no Latino heritage whatsoever sometimes speak fluent Spanish or use common Spanish-derived expressions when speaking English. Most government offices and tourist attractions, as well as many businesses in California have at least a few employees who are bilingual in English and Spanish. In fact, some restaurants may have a workforce that is more fluent in Spanish than English. Due to a history of Asian immigration and influence, Asian languages such as Cantonese, Mandarin, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, and Hindi are also spoken among Asian Californian populations. The major cities also tend to have communities of essentially any ethnicity imaginable, and there is a good chance you can hear their language and have an opportunity to experience their cultures. San Francisco, for example, is home to a significant French community, while Los Angeles boasts quite a large Ethiopian neighborhood. ==Get in== [[File:Skyscraper Los Angeles Downtown 2013.jpg|thumb|Skyscrapers in Downtown L.A.]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Flying in the United States}} [[San Francisco International Airport]] ({{IATA|SFO}}) and [[Los Angeles International Airport]] ({{IATA|LAX}}) are the most popular entry points with a wide variety of flights from [[Europe]], [[East Asia]], [[India]], [[Oceania]] ([[Australia]], [[Fiji]], [[New Zealand]], [[Tahiti]], etc.), [[Latin America]] and from various cities in the U.S. on a variety of U.S. and foreign flag carriers. To a lesser extent there are also direct flights from the [[Middle East]] ([[Israel]], [[Qatar]], [[Saudi Arabia]], [[Turkey]] and the [[United Arab Emriates]]) to Los Angeles. They are however also the most crowded and the SFO-LAX route is one of the busiest air corridors in the world causing frequent delays due to congestion. Delays at San Francisco airport due to fog are also somewhat common. If coming from within the U.S. and from Mexico there are other alternate airports in California that are less crowded and may be closer to your final destination. They are: :* Los Angeles area – [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Hollywood-Burbank Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]] (closest to Hollywood and Downtown Los Angeles), [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa_Ana_(California)|Orange County]] (closest to Disneyland & Knott's Berry Farm), [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario International Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}) in Ontario (closest to Joshua Tree and the Inland Empire deserts), and [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach Airport] ({{IATA|LGB}}) in [[Long Beach]]. :* San Francisco Bay Area – [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport] ({{IATA|OAK}}) in Oakland (closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose Airport] ({{IATA|SJC}}) in San Jose (closest to Silicon Valley), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] ({{IATA|STS}}) in [[Santa Rosa (California)|Santa Rosa]] (closest to Wine Country). Both San Francisco and Oakland airports are now connected to the local metro network, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a bus route 10 to the 'Santa Clara Station'. :* [[San Diego International Airport]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) in San Diego :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento Airport]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) in Sacramento :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno Airport]] ({{IATA|RNO}}) in [[Reno]], Nevada is closer to [[Lake Tahoe]] than from Sacramento. :* [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno Airport] ({{IATA|FAT}}) in Fresno, closest to Yosemite NP and the major airport in the [[San Joaquin Valley]]. :* Palm Springs ({{IATA|PSP}}) :* Central Coast – Monterey ({{IATA|MRY}}) (closest to Big Sur), San Luis Obispo ({{IATA|SBP}}) (closest to Hearst Castle), and Santa Barbara ({{IATA|SBA}}). :* [[Harry_Reid_International_Airport|Las Vegas]] ({{IATA|LAS}}), Nevada is closer to Death Valley NP than from Los Angeles or Ontario. :* [[Tijuana#By plane|Tijuana Airport]] ({{IATA|TIJ}}) in Tijuana. If coming from Mexico it may be more advantageous to fly to Tijuana on a (Mexican) domestic flight and then cross into San Diego by ground transportation or through its second terminal (CBX) on the American side of the border than on an international flight to San Diego, Los Angeles, or other cities further north. From San Diego, you can continue north to the San Francisco Bay area, Las Vegas, [[Phoenix]] or wherever in the U.S. you are continuing to. See [[California#By plane 2|By plane]] under the "Get Around" section for more information. ===By train=== {{see also|Rail travel in the United States}} [[Amtrak]] serves several routes into and out of California. If you are going to Los Angeles from the Central Valley, you might have to change to a bus for the last part of the trip, as the only railway connection between the Central Valley and Los Angeles is also one of the busiest freight lines in the United States. Plans to build a new [[high speed rail]] line to link San Francisco and Los Angeles are underway, but completion is not scheduled before the late 2020s. The following Amtrak routes serve California and terminate in [[Los Angeles#By train|Los Angeles]] or [[Emeryville]]: * The ''[[California Zephyr]]'' runs daily between [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] and [[Emeryville]] with connections in [[Omaha]], [[Denver]], [[Provo]], [[Salt Lake City]] and [[Reno|Reno/Lake Tahoe]]. This train also stops in the Sierra Nevada (Truckee and Colfax) and the Sacramento Valley (Roseville, [[Sacramento]], Davies and Martinez). Emeryville is the nearest Amtrak station to downtown San Francisco where passengers transfer to the Amtrak Thruway bus to continue across the bay to San Francisco. * The ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' runs daily between Los Angeles and [[Seattle#By train|Seattle]] via [[Portland (Oregon)#By train|Portland]], [[Klamath Falls]], [[Redding]], [[Bay Area (California)|San Francisco Bay Area]], Santa Barbara, [[San Luis Obispo]] and [[Oxnard]]. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/southwest-chief-train.html Southwest Chief]'' runs daily from [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] via [[Kansas City]], [[Albuquerque]], [[Flagstaff]], Williams Junction (nearest stop to the [[Grand Canyon]]) and [[Kingman]] to Los Angeles. It also makes stops in the Mojave Desert ([[Needles]], [[Barstow]] and [[Victorville]]); the [[Inland Empire]] ([[Riverside]] and [[San Bernardino]]) and Orange County ([[Fullerton]]) and on its way into Los Angeles. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/sunset-limited-train.html Sunset Limited]'' runs three times a week from [[New Orleans]] via [[Houston]], [[San Antonio]], [[El Paso]], [[Tucson]] and [[Yuma]]. Additionally, Amtrak's ''[http://www.texaseagle.com/ Texas Eagle]'' service between San Antonio and Chicago incorporates the Sunset Limited to provide a direct connection to Los Angeles with the same stops as the Sunset Limited between San Antonio and Los Angeles. This train also stops in the Inland Empire ([[Pomona]], Ontario and Palm Springs). Train services are limited to two token lines with hardly any real transport value in Mexico and there are ''no'' passenger rail service to anywhere near the U.S./Mexican border from anywhere in Mexico. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to California. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''By bus'' under ''Get around'' in the below for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By car=== All major road entrances (including entrances from other U.S. States) to California have agricultural inspection stations to ensure that some fruits and vegetables do not cross into a region where they may come into contact with the farms in the [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. Often, travelers are subject to border inspection (somewhat strict for domestic travel) and asked if they have been on a farm or are carrying organic matter with them. ==Get around== California is the third largest state of the U.S. by area (after [[Alaska]] and [[Texas]]). It compares in size with [[Sweden]]. However, getting around California can be simple. ===By car=== [[File:California State Route 1 in Marin County.jpg|California State Route 1|thumb|right|250px]] [[File:405 southbound near Getty Museum.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Interstate 405 in Los Angeles]] In addition to interstates and US highways, California has one of the most expansive state highway systems in the United States. As with all long-distance trips in the United States, a car is generally the best way to get around and see destinations, especially rural ones. However the trip from the northern end of California to the southern end can take well over ten hours as the state's varied and in places rugged terrain can pose obstacles to the road network. The coast routes (State Route 1 and U.S. 101) are much slower and windier than Interstate 5, and GPS travel estimate times may be inaccurate, especially on Highway 1. Most California drivers are courteous and careful (although speeding is rampant), and the safety and ease of driving in California is comparable to most wealthy countries. Exceptions may be found in the most congested areas of San Francisco and Los Angeles &mdash; where potholes, road rage and reckless driving are commonplace &mdash; and some country roads in mountain ranges. Information about vehicle collisions and other non-congestion traffic problems on highways are reported online at [https://www.chp.ca.gov/traffic chp.ca.gov/traffic]. Traffic congestion is tracked by most online map sites. Gasoline prices are more expensive than in other parts of the U.S.; consider public transit in highly populated areas such as the Bay Area where prices are especially high. ====Freeway signage (and cautions)==== California uses the MUTCD (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices) lane marking system standard throughout the United States, in which dashed white lines divide lanes of through traffic and yellow divides opposing traffic (with single dashed indicating passing and double solid indicating no passing). In many urban areas the lane markings are replaced by Botts dots for additional tactile feedback when crossing lanes. The network of freeways in major population centers is often confusing and intimidating to those unfamiliar with the area, so having a good map is very helpful. The great majority of exits from freeways are on the right. At interchanges between freeways, in most cases, the flow of traffic continues through the left lanes with the transition to the other freeway being in the right lanes. At some freeway interchanges, Caltrans (California Dept. of Transportation) is notorious for posting advance direction signs that do not correctly explain which lanes correspond to which ramps. Additionally, Caltrans does not always post signs warning of upcoming lane drops or merges. For example, where a freeway has three through lanes and the central lane splits into two lanes, thus resulting in two ramps with two lanes each, the advance signage may incorrectly imply that only the right lane will break off for the upcoming right-side ramp, thus causing visitors driving in the middle lane to merge unnecessarily into the right lane. And the two lanes on the right-side ramp may suddenly merge into each other without any warning. These issues frequently result in visitors making wild last-minute lane merges. Approach major freeway interchanges in California with caution. Mile-based exit numbering is in progress but is still very erratic in areas; an exit number may not be marked at all, may be marked on the last directional sign before the exit, or may be marked on the final "Exit" sign where the exit ramp separates. ====Ramp meters==== In urban areas, the access ramps to a freeway may have traffic lights for each lane (called ramp meters or ramp metering lights; you'll see warning signs that read "meter on"). During high-traffic times, the traffic light spaces out the vehicles attempting to merge onto the freeway. Be sure to read the sign below the light as ramps can allow 1 to 3 vehicles per green light. Most ramp meters are for ramps from local roads to a freeway, but some freeway junctions have meters on their ramps too. ====Toll roads and bridges==== Most highways are freely accessible and toll-free. However, California has some toll bridges, toll roads, and tolled Express Lanes. Toll road and bridges are indicated on road signs. When a toll-free road flows directly into a toll road or bridge, there is sometimes a sign for "last exit before toll". FasTrak electronic toll collection (ETC) via toll transponders or tags is used for all toll facilities. Cash is no longer accepted. FasTrak is not compatible with any other state's ETC system. Some California toll authorities also allow online pay-by-plate, but if no signage mentions it, assume it is unavailable. If you drive a vehicle through a toll gantry without an active FasTrak account and the toll authority has no pay by plate option, you may receive an expensive ticket for nonpayment of toll. In Northern California, all major bridges in the San Francisco Bay Area have toll plazas, with tolls charged on traffic in only one direction. The plazas are unmanned and will be replaced with gantries for open-road tolling, but for now, drivers must slow to 20 mph to pass through them. Southern California has several toll roads in Orange County which use open-road tolling. "Express Lanes" are high-occupancy (HOV) lanes (carpool lanes) that non-high-occupancy vehicles can often use by paying a toll. Electronic signs will indicate whether the Express Lane is "open to all" (no toll is charged) or "HOV only" (only HOVs eligible for toll-free access may use the lane). If the signs show a price in dollars and cents, it means that non-HOV vehicles may use the Express Lane but will be charged that toll. During times of severe traffic congestion, Express Lanes may charge tolls of $20 or more per vehicle. HOVs are supposed to be exempt from tolls in Express Lanes. Some Express Lane operators require all HOVs to carry FasTrak Flex transponders to signal their toll-free status. If you are legally using a free carpool lane and a sign warns it will turn into a tolled Express Lane, you must merge immediately back into regular lanes if you do not have FasTrak Flex. ====HOV/carpool lanes==== Some freeways have a high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane on the far left. This lane, also called the carpool lane or diamond lane, is marked by: * a diamond symbol painted on the road surface * signage on the wall separating the two sides of the freeway, with the diamond symbol * a double yellow line on the road surface (only in Southern California) Some freeway access ramps have carpool lanes too; often, the non-carpool lanes will have ramp meter traffic lights while the carpool lane has none. In most cases, the carpool lane is only for vehicles with 2 or more persons inside, motorcycles, and clean-air vehicles with [https://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/carpool/carpool.htm government-issued "Access OK" stickers]. Sometimes, 3 or more persons and/or a FasTrak transponder may be required, so check the signage before entering a carpool lane. Carpool lane restrictions may be enforced 24 hours a day every day, or only when the signage says so (in those cases, it's usually only during rush hour on weekdays). Carpool lanes in Southern California have limited access points marked by a dashed white line. This is the only point at which a vehicle may legally enter or exit a carpool lane, since you are not allowed to cross a double yellow line. The minimum fine for unlawful use of a carpool lane is $490. ====Traffic safety and law enforcement==== All persons in a moving vehicle are required to wear a seatbelt and the driver and all passengers can be individually ticketed for failing to do so. Motorcycle riders must wear a helmet. Cellphone users are required to use a hands-free headset if talking on the phone while driving. Texting by the driver is illegal, as is any action on the phone that forces the driver to touch it more than once (and even single-touch actions are only allowed if the phone is mounted securely rather than hand-held). Unless otherwise signed, right-turns are permitted at red lights following a full stop. If it is raining hard enough to require you to use your windshield wipers, California law requires that your headlights be turned on. Most California police officers carry radar guns to catch speeding drivers. The California Highway Patrol occasionally flies aircraft overhead to spot speeders and help ground units home in on their positions. Red light enforcement cameras are in use at many urban intersections, but are marked only by a single "photo enforced" sign before the intersection. Speed enforcement cameras are being piloted in a few cities, including San Francisco and Los Angeles; the cameras are small and hard to spot. California's laws against driving under the influence of alcohol are very strict; the maximum permissible blood alcohol concentration is 0.08%. All drivers are strongly encouraged to call 911 to report drunk drivers. California requires disabled out-of-state visitors to apply at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for a travel placard for handicapped parking. It is valid for 90 days. Travelers with a non-US driver's license are generally permitted to drive in California. However, travelers who are in California for more than 10 days with some kinds of visas, especially the K-1 non-immigrant visa for future spouses, have run into some difficulties over their place of residence. The DMV refuses to issue drivers' licenses to people with non-immigrant visas, but police have filed charges against some of them for becoming a California resident without promptly obtaining a California license – the very license that the State refuses to issue on the grounds that they haven't legally become residents yet. This risk may be reduced by giving your non-California address as your place of legal residence if stopped by police. Unlike most states, "lane-splitting" by motorcyclists (i.e. riding down the painted lines between traffic lanes) is legal in California and commonly done in heavy traffic. It's only legal when traffic is going slower than 30 mph, and motorcyclists are only allowed to go 15 mph faster than the general flow of traffic, but many motorcyclists seem to treat this as more of a guideline than a hard and fast rule. As a result, if you're driving a car, take extra care to watch for motorcycles when changing lanes on a major highway. ====Major highways==== [[File:California State Route 1 All American Road sign.jpg|150px|thumb|right|A California State Highway sign. The poppy sign below it indicates that it is a state scenic route]] Here are some important highways in California: * [[File:I-5.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 5]]:''' Runs between San Diego, Los Angeles, and Sacramento, then north into Oregon and Washington. :*[[File:California 99.svg|22px]] '''State Route 99:''' Runs along the California Central Valley between Red Bluff, Sacramento, Stockton, Modesto, Fresno and Bakersfield as the Golden State Freeway. * [[File:I-8.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 8:''' Runs between San Diego, Calexico, Yumma, and Casa Grande, Arizona. * [[File:I-10.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10]]:''' Runs between Santa Monica, Los Angeles, the Inland Empire and Palm Springs, then over the Colorado River into Arizona and points east. * [[File:I-15.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 15:''' Runs between San Diego, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Las Vegas, Nevada and points north. * [[File:I-40.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 40:''' Runs between Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona, towards Oklahoma City and points east. Interstate 40 bypasses or replaces the old Route 66 between Barstow and Oklahoma City (as County Rd 66 in San Bernardino County). :* [[File:US_66_(historic).svg|22px]] '''[[Route 66|Historic Route 66]]:''' Now decommissioned, historically connected Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona and points east. It runs alongside I-40 between Barstow and Oklahoma City and alongside or concurrent with I-15 between Barstow and San Bernardino. * [[File:I-80.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 80#California|Interstate 80]]:''' Runs between the Bay Area, Sacramento, Reno, Nevada, and points east. * [[File:I-405.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 405:''' Runs {{mile|72}} between Northridge and Irvine via Van Nuys, LAX, Culver City, Long Beach, Santa Ana, and point in between as an auxiliary by-pass of I-5 through the Los Angeles Area. * [[File:I-580.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 580:''' Connects the San Francisco Bay Area with Interstate 5 in the Central Valley * [[File:US 50.svg|22px]]'''U.S. Highway 50:''' Runs between Sacramento, South Lake Tahoe, Carson City, Nevada, and points east * [[File:US 101.svg|22px]] '''[[U.S._Highway_101|U.S. Highway 101]]:''' Runs between Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, then close to the California Coast to the San Francisco Bay, Eureka and points north :* [[File:California 1.svg|22px]] '''[[Pacific Coast Highway|State Route 1]]:''' Runs up the California Coast between Orange County, Los Angeles, Monterey, the Bay Area, and [[Fort Bragg]] * [[File:US 395.svg|22px]] '''[[/U.S._Highway_101|'U.S. Highway 395]]:''' Runs along the Eastern Sierras, connecting the Inland Empire and High Desert with Bishop, Reno, and Susanville, then into Oregon and points north ====Taxis and rideshares==== Taxis and rideshare services (Uber and Lyft) are widely available in and around California's largest cities: San Francisco, Los Angeles (including Orange County), San Diego, and Sacramento. They are less likely to be available in small towns and rural areas. ====Robotaxis==== Waymo operates a robotaxi service with self-driving vehicles in two service areas: one on the San Francisco Peninsula from San Francisco to downtown San Jose, and another in the western part of Los Angeles south of the Santa Monica Mountains, from downtown Los Angeles to Santa Monica and as far south as Inglewood. However, Waymo does not yet have authorization to provide service to Los Angeles International Airport. Only San Jose International Airport allows Waymo unrestricted access to pick up and drop off passengers. Waymo is now able to drive on freeways, and it can also pick up and drop off at San Francisco International Airport, but only at the Rental Car Center (10 minutes to the terminals via AirTrain tram). Both features are subject to wait lists, making them less useful to new users. ===By plane=== [[File:LAX LA.jpg|Los Angeles International Airport|250px|thumb|right]] Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state. [https://www.aa.com American/American Eagle]; [https://www.united.com/ United/United Express]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.delta.com Delta], [https://www.southwest.com Southwest], [https://www.jetblue.com JetBlue], [http://www.jsx.com Jet Suite X (JSX)], [https://www.spirit.com Spirit] and [https://www.alaskaair.com Alaska Airlines] offer intrastate flights within the state of California. San Francisco is a hub for United and Alaska; while Los Angeles is a hub for United, American/American Eagle, Delta, JetBlue and Alaska Airlines. The LAX-SFO route is one of the busiest in America which means competitive fares and delays are frequent which is only made worse by the fog that tends to hit San Francisco bay on a regular basis. In addition, the airlines offer flights from different airports in [[Southern California#By plane|southern California]] in the south; to the [[Bay_Area_(California)#By plane|SF Bay area]] and to Sacramento in the north at competitive rates. A route between lesser-known airports (say, Burbank to Oakland) may save you money and avoid airport chaos compared to LAX-SFO. The primary airports served by major US carriers, Volaris (from Mexico) and Aeromexico (from Mexico) in California are in: :* Los Angeles area – [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles International]] ({{IATA|LAX}}), [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Burbank-Hollywood Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]], [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa Ana_(California)|Orange County]]; [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}), and a small airport in [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach] ({{IATA|LGB}}) :* San Francisco Bay Area – [[San Francisco International Airport|San Francisco]] ({{IATA|SFO}}), [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay] ({{IATA|OAK}}), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose] ({{IATA|SJC}}), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] (Charles M. Schulz Airport) ({{IATA|STS}}) in Santa Rosa; both San Francisco and Oakland airport are now connected to the metro, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a free shuttle at the 'Santa Clara Station'. Oakland is closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO is and offers a fog-free alternative. :* [[San Diego#By plane|San Diego]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno]] ({{IATA|RNO}}), Nevada closer to the Lake Tahoe area than Sacramento The busiest second tier airports are [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno] ({{IATA|FAT}}) (nearest to Yosemite NP); [https://flysba.santabarbaraca.gov/ Santa Barbara] ({{IATA|SBA}}); and [https://flypsp.com/ Palm Springs] ({{IATA|PSP}}). There are also flights from major hubs to [[Arcata]]/McKinleyville (nearest to Eureka), Bakersfield, Crescent City, El Centro, Mammoth Lakes, Merced, Monterey, Redding, San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, and Stockton. ===By train=== The state's various rail services provide a cheap and reasonably comfortable way to see and get around much of the state [[USA without a car|without a car]]. '''[[Amtrak]]''' operates a few long-distance routes through and out of California, as well as the three Amtrak California routes: :* San Luis Obispo-Santa Barbara-Los Angeles-Anahiem-San Diego on the ''[https://www.pacificsurfliner.com/ Pacific Surfliner]'' :* Oakland/Sacramento-Stockton-Fresno-Bakersfield on the ''[https://goldrunner.com/ Gold Runner]'' (which has a connecting Thruway bus service to Los Angeles) :* San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Auburn on the ''[https://www.capitolcorridor.org/ Capitol Corridor]'' :* Los Angeles-Santa Barbara-San Luis Obispo-San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Redding-(continues to Seattle) on the ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' :* Emeryville (San Francisco connection)-Sacramento-Truckee (near Lake Tahoe)-(continues to Chicago) on the ''California Zephyr'' :*Los Angeles-Palm Springs-(continues to Chicago) on the Sunset Limited :*''Amtrak Thruway Motorcoaches'' connects additional cities and towns to/from the Amtrak (train) network by bus such as Santa Cruz-San Jose; San Francisco-Emeryville; Bakersfield-Los Angeles; Bakersfield-Las Vegas; Martinez-Arcata; Redding-Sacramento; etc. Amtrak has seen continuously increasing ridership in most of the US for more than a decade now, and surprisingly enough three of the six most popular Amtrak routes run through California, thus making them a viable alternative to the more often than not congested roads and airports. In addition, there are several commuter and regional services in the state's metro areas: :*''[https://www.caltrain.com/ Caltrain]'' San Francisco-Palo Alto-San Jose-Gilroy through the famous Silicon Valley. :* ''[https://acerail.com/ Altamont Commuter Express]'' San Jose-Stockton through the Altamont Corridor Express. :* ''[https://www.bart.gov/ BART]'' operates in the Bay Area, connecting much of the East Bay (Oakland, Berkeley, Walnut Creek) to San Francisco and SFO. :* ''[https://metrolinktrains.com/ Metrolink]'' runs regional train service throughout the greater Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura County (metropolis) region on multiple routes. :* ''[https://gonctd.com/services/coaster-commuter-rail/ COASTER]'' runs along the coast of San Diego County between downtown San Diego, Carlsbad and Oceanside. :*''[https://gonctd.com/services/sprinter-hybrid-rail/ SPRINTER]'' runs across Northern San Diego County between Escondino and Oceanside with bus and train connections to Los Angeles and San Diego. :*''[https://www.sonomamarintrain.org/ Sonoma-Marin Rail (SMART)]'' runs between Santa Rosa and San Rafael in Marin/Sonoma County (Northern Bay Area) with ferry connections to San Francisco There are also light rail systems in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Jose. Almost all of these systems are being expanded or upgraded to cope with rising ridership, so expect more and better service in years to come. ===By bus=== {{see also|Long-distance bus travel in the United States }} The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There are fairly frequent service from [[Los Angeles#By bus|Los Angeles]] to [[San Francisco#By bus|San Francisco]]/[[San Jose_(California)#By bus|San Jose]]; [[San Diego#By_bus|San Diego]]/[[Tijuana#By_bus|Tijuana]]; [[Las Vegas#By_bus|Las Vegas]]/[[San Bernardino#By_bus|San Bernardino]] and [[Sacramento#By bus|Sacramento]] with on multiple routes with various bus companies. There are other the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns which are not listed, check the article of your destination for all the transportation options. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/california/ here]. * {{listing | name=Eastern Sierra Transit | alt= | url=https://www.estransit.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 760 872-1901 | tollfree=+1 800 922-1930 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Operates 'local' buses along US Hwy 395 corridor between Mammoth Lake, Bishop and Lone Pine in Mono and Inyo Counties in the eastern 'Desert' and the Sierra Nevada parts of the state. They have a route continuing north to Carson City & Reno from Mammoth Lake and south to Lancaster from Lone Pine. The area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway buses }} * {{listing | type=go | name=El Paso Los Angeles Limousine Express | alt= | url=https://www.eplalimo.com/ | email= | address=(downtown LA depot) 622 E 6th St | lat= | long= | directions=SW corner of E 6th St & Wall St across the street from police station | phone=+1 213 623-2323 and +1 323-265-3232 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Travels along I-10 between Los Angeles, [[Indio]], Phoenix, [[Las Cruces]] and El Paso on one route and on I-15 to Las Vegas & North Las Vegas on another route. They have additional stops in E. Los Angeles, El Monte and [[Colton]] on their way on both routes. They also have a second depot at 4425 S Atlantic Blvd in E Los Angeles. }} * {{listing | name=Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.flixbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 626-8585 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-06-14 | content=The German bus company, Flixbus, connects Los Angeles to Las Vegas, Phoenix, Sacramento, SF Bay Area and San Diego via multiple cities en route in Arizona and California. It has grown rapidly through subcontracting its operations, which has the downside for customers that the buses are not of a consistent style or quality. In October 2021 they had merged with Greyhound Lines (see below) but, maintain separate brands. Tickets and schedules with Greyhound and Flixbus can be searched and purchased through each other's websites. }} * {{listing | name=Green Tortoise | alt= | url=https://greentortoise.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 415 956-7500 | tollfree=1 800 867-8647 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates something like a 'hippie' bus that serves as a bus by day with stops to visit different places like a bus tour throughout the day and a RV camper by night in different campgrounds. It offers bus tours and camping trips to Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Death Valley Sequoia and along the coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Some of its tours involve a 3- to 5-day round trip from the point of origin such as from San Francisco to Yosemite NP and back while others are one way where the journey starts from one place and end in the other like from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree and end in Las Vegas. Even with round trips it is possible to ask to be picked up or dropped off in different places than the point of origin/return. Others like its 'Hostel Hoppers' or 'Express' are a straightforward bus ride from point A to B. It is one way to combine 'taking the bus' from one place to another and to visit and see remote places without a private automobile. }} * {{listing | name=Greyhound , Cruceros-USA, Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1 800 231-2222 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Greyhound goes to 100 locations statewide, though these are not all actual stations, some are merely stops. In general, Greyhound serves the same routes that Amtrak does along the main highways. In some cases Greyhound is cheaper, faster, and more frequent than Amtrak. Flixbus tickets can also be searched and purchased on Greyhound's website }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Hoang Express | alt= | url=https://www.xedohoang.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 714 839-3500 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=$60-65 to Bay Area; $80 to Sacramento | content=Travels between SoCal (San Diego, El Monte, Los Angeles, [[Westminster (California)|Westminster]]); Bay Area (San Francisco, San Jose & Oakland) and to Sacramento on another route from Los Angeles. They also offer service from Los Angeles to Arizona (Phoenix, [[Chandler (Arizona)|Chandler]] and [[Tempe]]. }} * {{go | name=International Bus Lines | alt=formerly Intercalifornias | url=https://www.ibuslines.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 629-4885 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination | content=Connects Tijuana, San Ysidro (just over the border), Santa Ana, Los Angeles, San Fernando, Bakersfield, Fresno, and San Jose/[[Stockton (California)|Stockton]] (route splits/joins in Madero) and several other places in between. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=LuxBus | alt= | url=https://www.luxbusamerica.com/ | email= | address=on request for hotel pick up/drop off | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-877-610-7870 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Operates to/from [[Las Vegas]], [[Anaheim]], and [[San Diego]]. }} * {{listing | name=Mendocino Transit Authority (MTA) | alt= | url=https://mendocinotransit.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Travels extensively in the North Coast region along Hwy 1 from Ft Bragg to Navarro River Junction (#65), Point Arena (#75), Bodega Bay and Santa Rosa (#95). Another route from Ft Bragg to Willits, Ukiah and Santa Rosa along SR-20 and US Hwy 101 (Rt #65). Much of the area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway Buses off the US Hwy 101 corridor. }} * {{listing | name=Sage Stage | alt= | url=https://sagestage.com/ | email= | address=(bus stops) Rite Aide @ 5th & Main in Alturas | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 530 233-6410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-18 | content=Provides public transportation from Alturas and Canby in Modoc County, in the [[Shasta Cascades]], to [[Redding]]; [[Reno]], NV; and [[Klamath Falls]], OR on three separate routes. }} * {{listing | name=Santa Barbara Airbus | alt= | url=https://www.sbairbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 805 964-7759 | tollfree=+1-800-423-1618 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-08-05 | content=Eight trips a day from [[Los Angeles International Airport|LAX]] to [[Carpinteria]], [[Santa Barbara]] and [[Goleta]]. }} * {{listing | name="Cabin" | alt=formerly Sleep Bus | url=https://www.ridecabin.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-25 | content=Overnight service to the Los Angeles area (Ocean & Arizona Ave in Palisades Park in [[Santa Monica]]) from San Francisco (Bayside Lot @ 1 Bryant St). This is an actual sleeper bus featuring twin size bunk beds with privacy curtains, power outlets, and free wifi. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Tufesa | alt= | url=https://www.gotobus.com/tufesa/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 489-8079 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination |lastedit=2022-11-30| content=Connects Los Angeles to Sacramento (via Bakersfield, Fresno, etc); to Salt Lake City (via Barstow, Las Vegas, St George, etc); to Hermosillo (via Phoenix, Tucson, Nogales); San Francisco Bay Area; and to Tijuana (via Santa Ana, San Diego/San Ysidro). }} * {{listing | name=Yarts | alt= | url=https://yarts.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates regularly scheduled buses from Yosemite NP (Visitors' Center) to Fresno, Merced, Mammoth Lakes & Sonora on four separate routes. }} ===By foot=== *The [[Pacific Crest Trail]] crosses the length of California on its way from [[Mexico]] to [[Canada]] *The [[American Discovery Trail]] connects California with [[Nevada]] and the East Coast. ===By boat=== *Ferry service is limited, but can be a scenic, relaxing, and fun way to travel. Major services exist in the [[Bay Area]], to the [[Channel Islands (California)|Channel Islands]] and to [[Catalina Island]] near Los Angeles. Several of the smaller coastal towns have water taxi services within their city. Check as the stops and limited and the schedules may seasonal. *Many cities are along the coast, or else on navigable waterways, and you can dock your own boat there. == See == [[File:Us-ca-sanfran-goldengate.jpg|thumb|Golden Gate Bridge in [[San Francisco]]]] As the most geographically and culturally diverse state in the U.S., California offers an endless amount of things to see and do; even when you think you've experienced everything in one area of the state, a short trip to another part has plenty more to offer. Incredible and unique scenery, some of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, centuries old historical sites, unending cultural and entertainment options {{snd}}no matter where your interests lie, California will almost certainly offer it. ===Natural attractions=== [[Image:16-yosemite-half-dome.jpg|thumb|Half Dome at [[Yosemite National Park]]]] From white-sand beaches to snowcapped mountains, with lush forests and arid deserts in between, no other state offers such a wide a variety of natural landscapes as California does. California hosts the largest number of [[United States national parks|U.S. national parks]] with a total of nine. The most famous of these is '''[[Yosemite National Park]]''', featuring thundering waterfalls and geological behemoths like El Capitan and Half Dome. The surrounding [[Sierra Nevada]] also hosts nearby '''[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]''' which are both home to some of the world's largest living organisms, the giant sequoia. '''[[Redwood National Park]]''' in the far northwestern corner of the state and the surrounding area feature the world's tallest species of trees, the coast redwood. Tired of forests? The California desert is the site of some of the hottest and most arid places on Earth. '''[[Death Valley National Park]]''' is the location of the highest ever recorded temperature on the planet. If deserts are not your thing, beaches and California are practically synonymous. '''[[Big Sur]]''' and '''[[Point Reyes National Seashore|Point Reyes]]''' are notable examples of a scenic, winding stretch of unspoiled coastline that is typical of Northern California, featuring rocky cliffs and towering redwood trees that meet thundering ocean waves. Further south, the water is much warmer and suitable for all-day beach trips. Here, world-class beach towns such as '''[[Santa Barbara]]''', '''[[Malibu]]''', and those of '''[[Beach Cities|Orange County]]''' offer opportunities to catch waves, practice beach volleyball, or simply lounge around and tan underneath palm trees. If high-altitude adventure is what you are seeking, California has that too. At an elevation of 14,505 feet (4,421 meters) above sea level, '''[[Mount Whitney]]''' is the highest mountain in the lower 48 states. Snow activities such as skiing and snowboarding are plentiful in '''[[Lake Tahoe]]''' in the winter, while hiking and water recreation such as boating are popular in summer. [[File:Silver Lake.jpg|thumb|Silver Lake is in the [[Sierra Nevada|Sierra Nevada Range]] of eastern California]] While the national parks may receive most of the attention, California has the largest [[California state parks|state park system]] in the United States. These protected areas are found in places ranging from being adjacent to national parks to green landscapes in the middle of cities that offer a respite from the hectic urban rush. California's high population and its climate have also led to the creation of numerous [[Reservoirs in California|reservoirs]]. California marine animals (native and migrating) are easily found in the wild along the state's beaches, in lagoons and estuaries, such as sea otters, grey whales, elephant seals, harbor seals, sea lions as well as multitudes of tide pools dwellers including crabs, sea stars, anemone, and sea urchins. Timing is key: go at low tide to see lots of marine life. ===Monuments and architecture=== California has long been a canvas for architects and engineers to design and build some pioneering structures or to popularize styles that would define a time period. With two of the most prominent cities in the United States, [[Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco]], this is certainly notable with many of the structures and buildings that are found there. San Francisco is home to engineering marvels such as the '''Golden Gate Bridge''', Lombard Street (the most crooked street in the world), and cable cars that seemingly glide up and down the hills between the waterfront and rest of downtown. The many skyscrapers such as the Transamerica Pyramid have all been specifically designed to withstand powerful earthquakes. The stately '''Palace of Fine Arts''' and charming Painted Ladies of Alamo Square have served as backdrops countless of times for the city by the Bay. As the epicenter of the global entertainment industry, the '''Hollywood Sign''' is an icon of Los Angeles recognized worldwide. The nearby Hollywood Walk of Fame, Capitol Records Building, and numerous theaters all solidify the city's hold on entertainment. The Griffith Observatory and Walt Disney Concert Hall are also notable features in the cityscape, as is the imposing '''Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum''', the site of the 1932 and 1984 Summer Olympics. Other notable landmarks outside these two cities include the '''California State Capitol''' in [[Sacramento]] (modeled after the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.), labyrinthine '''Winchester Mystery House''' in [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]] with eerie origins, and the lavish '''Hearst Castle''' in the Central Coast town of [[San Simeon]] that anchors the landscape of the surrounding area. ===Historical sites=== From former Native American sites to suburban garages where modern technology was invented, California's centuries-long history is preserved in numerous historical sites and museums that are scattered throughout the state. One of the most comprehensive collections of state history from prehistory to contemporary times is housed in the '''Oakland Museum of California''' in [[Oakland]], with a vast collection of nearly 2 million items related to California history, art, and science. The legacy of Spanish colonial times remains with the string of '''twenty-one missions''' that span the length of much of the state from '''Mission San Diego de Alcalá ''' in the San Diego's [[San Diego/Old Town-Mission Valley|Old Town]] (founded in 1769) up to '''Mission San Francisco Solano''' in the Bay Area town of [[Sonoma]] (founded in 1823). Perhaps the most beautiful of these though, is '''Mission Santa Barbara''', which lent its name to [[Santa Barbara|the same city]] and is rightfully referred to as the "Queen of the Missions". '''El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument''' in downtown [[Los Angeles]] is another historical feature from the Spanish era, although the neighborhood underwent a major transformation during the period of Mexican rule (1821 to 1848) that now gives the area a distinct Mexican atmosphere, particularly along Olvera Street. Spain was not the only European power that colonized California, however. '''[[Fort Ross]]''' in the northern edge of the Bay Area was the southernmost Russian outpost in North America and was in operation from 1812 to 1841. Gold Rush legacies live on in [[Gold Country]], located in the northeastern part of the state. Following the discovery of gold at '''Sutter's Mill''' in [[Coloma (California)|Coloma]] in 1848, hundreds of thousands of fortune seekers from around the world made their way to California, establishing dozens of towns, most of which still retain their Old West charm and atmosphere. '''Old Sacramento''' in the [[Sacramento|state's capital city]] also sprung up as the commercial and transportation center of this era, with places of interest including the first terminus of the '''First Transcontinental Railroad''' and related California Railroad Museum. '''Cannery Row''' and much of the rest of [[Monterey (California)|Monterey]] provide a glimpse of the state's once lucrative fishing and canning industry during the first half of the 20th century, with carefully preserved wooden buildings that housed factory workers and engines, along with rustic (and still active) piers. ===Motion picture sets=== Countless [[fiction tourism|films and television series]] have been set in California. Much of the production is made within the 30-mile (50-km) studio zone around Los Angeles, but sceneries across the whole state are famous from the movies. Some franchises with their own itineraries are ''[[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]]'', ''[[Easy Rider]]'', ''[[Fast and Furious tourism|Fast and Furious]]'', ''[[Forrest Gump tour|Forrest Gump]]'', ''[[Kill Bill tourism|Kill Bill]]'' and ''[[Terminator tourism|The Terminator]]''. ===Itineraries=== *[[El Camino Real]] (The Royal Road) &mdash; a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of Alta California (modern day state of California) offering a fascinating look into California's history. [[U.S. Highway 101]] is also part of this El Camino Highway. *[[Pacific Coast Highway]] &mdash; tour up and down the iconic California coast, along [[Big Sur]], all the way up to its end where it merges into the US 101, which goes up to Washington state. * [[U.S. Highway 395]], [[Interstate 5#California|Interstate 5 & CA-99]], [[Interstate 10]], [[Interstate 80]], and the [[Lincoln Highway]] are major highways through California with their own Wikivoyage article. ==Do== [[File:Hollywood sign 053004.jpg|thumb|[[Hollywood]]]] * '''Ski''' at one of the great resorts near [[Lake Tahoe]] or [[Big Bear Lake|Big Bear]]. * Try your hand at '''surfing''' or work on your tan in [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]] or [[Santa Monica]]. * The long coastline offers some great [[Scuba diving in California|California scuba diving]]. * Go '''winetasting''' at one of the countless vineyards dotting [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. * Climb a mountain and camp in the [[Sierra Nevada]] or [[Shasta Cascades]]. * See California's amazing wildflowers. From March through May, the [https://theodorepayne.org/ California Wildflower Hotline] at +1 818 768-3533 offers the latest information on the best places to view wildflowers throughout Southern and Central California. The hotline and website are updated every Thursday evening. More than 90 wildflower sites are included. The hotline, founded in 1983, is run by the Theodore Payne Foundation for Wild Flowers and Native Plants. * Listen to music at the '''[http://www.northerncaliforniabluesfest.com Northern California Blues Festival]{{Dead link|date=October 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. The fastest growing festival of its kind comes in June to Sacramento County around Father's day each year and usually features a spectacular line-up of Blues artists. Event benefits Through the Mind, a non-profit providing free alternative mental health to America's Veterans. * Visit one of the many '''theme parks''', such as [[Disneyland]] or [[Six Flags Magic Mountain]]. ==Buy== {{see also|Shopping in the United States}} Usually US dollars and common credit or debit cards are the only accepted modes of payment. Many stores can take contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. You might have some luck with Mexican pesos near the immediate border area, but the exchange rates are usually terrible. California stores no longer give out free plastic bags, except for fresh grocery produce and meats. Reusable plastic bags cost a minimum of ten cents (by state law). Many stores sell cloth bags for one or two dollars. The state sales tax is 7.25%. However, counties and cities are allowed to levy their own sales taxes on top. In most areas you visit, the actual sales tax will be around 8% or 9%. In certain parts of the counties of Alameda and Los Angeles, actual sales tax is over 10%. In California, sales tax is levied on sales of nearly all tangible personal property. The main exceptions are regular groceries (including cold food-to-go) and prescription drugs. Hot prepared food is also usually taxed, with the exception of hot baked goods sold to go as standalone items. The state does not refund sales tax to travelers. The quintessential California souvenir depends a lot on which part of the state you visited, and what your interests are. The agricultural products change from citrus and avocadoes down south to strawberries in the middle, to almonds and wine as you move north. In LA, you might take home chocolates from See's Candies; in the Central Coast, keep an eye open for locally produced saltwater taffy; in the Bay Area, it's all about Ghirardelli Chocolate. Common themes for souvenir items include surfing, tie-dyed clothing, and redwood trees. ==Eat== {{See also|American cuisine|Fast food in the United States and Canada}} California doesn't have a single, well-defined cuisine of its own, but rather has a remarkably diverse food scene defined by its large population of immigrants of varied ethnic backgrounds and its access to one of the most productive agricultural regions on this side of the planet. The culinary style referred to as ''Californian cuisine'' or ''California fusion'' focuses on imaginative fusions of other cuisines, typically with heavy attention to presentation and an emphasis on using freshly prepared local ingredients, and has been somewhat subsumed into the general trend of "New American" cuisine. Even diners and small mom-and-pop fast food grills have elements of fusion cuisine, as it is common in California for them to serve both burgers and Mexican food. Californians take fresh food for granted. Most food you will eat in California was harvested within 300 miles (480 km) of your plate, with the exception of certain cereals and tropical crops. California is the leading global source of tree nuts (almonds, pistachios, walnuts) and also leads North America in the production of dairy products and many kinds of fruits and vegetables. Out-of-season crops are usually imported from South America, especially Chile and Brazil. With such a bounty for restaurants to draw upon, almost any dish you can imagine can be found somewhere in California. The cuisines of the Americas and Asia are heavily represented, and those of nearly every other country are also available to a lesser extent. More "North American" fare includes everything from burger shacks to vegetarian, organic and even completely vegan restaurants; the Californian love for food has made it one of the most diverse restaurant scenes in North America. The large cities have the most variety, while things get simpler and more meat-heavy as you get more rural. There are a handful of distinctive California dishes, although most of them have been adopted and adapted throughout the US. * Cobb salad – a cold salad of bacon or ham, chicken, boiled eggs, avocado, tomato, lettuce, and bleu cheese, with a vinaigrette dressing. Traditionally it's chopped fairly fine, but in modern times it's served in a variety of ways, and sometimes with ranch dressing instead of the traditional vinaigrette. It was invented at the Brown Derby restaurant in LA. * French dip sandwich – invented somewhere in LA, the exact location is subject to dispute, but it's a warm sandwich of thinly sliced roast beef on a roll that's dipped into beef broth. * Cioppino – a seafood stew developed by Italian immigrants in San Francisco, it resembles various Italian fish stews but includes local ingredients like chopped Dungeness crab. * The Mission Burrito – a San Francisco tradition characterized mainly by its great size and caloric content, featuring copious amounts of beans and rice in addition to cheese, meat and/or vegetables. * California Burrito – a San Diego specialty, it's a carne asada (spicy grilled steak) burrito, stuffed with french fries. * Santa Maria Barbeque – This is a central coast tradition. It's a bottom sirloin beef roast (the cut is locally known as tri-tip), where the fat hasn't been trimmed. It's suspended high above a hot oak fire, fat side up, so it cooks slowly and the fat melts and tenderizes the meat. It's usually served thinly sliced with tortillas or bread, salsa, onions, avocado, and other side dishes. *Chop Suey – the original "American Chinese" dish was popularized as cheap food for laborers during the California gold rush. While it's increasingly hard to find, many other American Chinese dishes were first created in San Francisco's Chinatown. Larger cities in California have some restaurants selling American Chinese food and others selling traditional Chinese dishes. In smaller cities, the Americanized version may be the only option on the menu. As a general rule, plain water is free at any restaurant. However, if you need a disposable cup, the cup will cost you 25 cents (by state law). You are allowed to bring your own reusable water cup or bottle. ===Regional chains=== California's classic burger chain '''In-N-Out''' has expanded to states as far east as [[Texas]]—see [[Fast food in the United States and Canada]] for more. Outside of fast food, California chains that you'll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere include: * {{eat | name=Ike's | alt= | url=https://www.ikessandwich.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-06-22 | content=Casual sandwich joint with more than 50 locations, mostly in California though a few are in Nevada. The menu varies by location, but in general about half the menu has meat and half is vegetarian; many vegetarian options can be made vegan. The sandwiches are filling and flavorful but not excessively heavy. }} *{{listing | name=Farmer Boys | alt= | url=https://www.farmerboys.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5435711 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=A farm-to-table restaurant chain featuring a burger shack menu that is freshly cooked from local produce. Hamburgers, sandwiches, and salads, plus diner-style breakfast options served all day. }} *{{listing | name=Lemonade | alt= | url=https://lemonadela.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=locations are mostly in Southern California, plus two in San Francisco | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$15 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=Poke bowls, chef bowls, sandwiches, and 10 different types of freshly made lemonade. This is California fusion food without the high-end budget. Take your friend who's always bored with the same-ol' stuff. Don't neglect the side dishes. Vegan options. }} ==Drink== Generally, alcohol is available in more places in California than it is in other states. A person with valid ID of age can purchase alcohol at supermarkets or liquor stores; these are regulated by the state but not owned or controlled by them. All but the smallest communities have restaurants or bars that sell beer. Some places are permitted to have a bar in one part of their establishment, and six-packs of beer for sale and offsite consumption in another part. California is known for its fine [[wine]]s and gourmet beers. As of March 2026, there are 154 established American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) across the state of California, which is the highest number of any state. [[Napa Valley|Napa]], [[Sonoma Valley|Sonoma]] and [[Mendocino County|Mendocino]] are premier wine districts north of San Francisco, but there are others in the Central Coast region ([[Paso Robles]], [[Solvang]]) and even down near [[Temecula]] where suitable microclimates have been found. The inland Central Valley region (especially near [[Lodi (California)|Lodi]]) has hotter summers and traditionally produced inexpensive bulk wines, but quality has been improving with winemaking innovations. For beer, California also has a lot of microbreweries. Sierra Nevada, in [[Chico (California)|Chico]], is one of the biggest microbreweries in North America. In the [[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] the mid-sized brewery Firestone Walker in Paso Robles is a good addition to the local wineries in the area; [[Ventura]] has had several microbreweries over the years. In [[San Diego]], Stone Brewing Company offers a great variety of beers that can be purchased throughout the state. Los Angeles has several microbreweries, especially in the Arts District. There are over 200 microbreweries in California, and many bars in large- and mid-size cities that have 20 or more beers (often both foreign and domestic and ranging from light beer to flavored stouts) on tap. In addition to microbreweries, there are a handful of distilleries in California; one even makes date vodka. === Legal issues === Californians tend to view wine as a natural accompaniment of food or socializing, overlooking its alcoholic content more easily than with distilled spirits. However police crackdowns on drinking and driving are noticeable, with roadblocks and random checks. Conviction for driving with a blood alcohol level over .08 percent is likely to bring serious legal and financial consequences. Drivers with a lower blood alcohol can still be convicted for '''DUI''' (driving under the influence) if they fail field sobriety tests, such as walking a straight line. You must be 21 years of age to buy or drink any alcoholic beverage. Underage drinking is taken very seriously, so if you want a drink and appear to be under 30, you should be ready to present identification showing your age. The only acceptable proof-of-age documents are [[passports]] from any country, and identity documents issued by US government agencies (e.g., drivers' licenses issued by any US state). Foreign drivers' licenses and foreign identity cards are ''not'' legally acceptable as proof-of-age documentation, and people who are unable to produce a passport or valid United States ID will be refused service. Only original identity documents will be accepted; photographs or photocopies will not be accepted. ==Stay healthy== ===Air pollution=== While [[air pollution]] levels have dropped dramatically since the 1970s, more than ninety percent of Californians live in counties with unhealthy air. Visitors to the mountains or the rural regions of Northern California will have nothing to worry about, but the overreliance on cars, low rainfall, and surrounding mountains in Los Angeles, the Central Valley, and the Bay Area create some of America's worst air quality. It gets particularly bad when a layer of cold air gets "trapped" by a layer of warmer air above it ("inversion") which is particularly likely in basins. While air quality is rarely at levels that would be considered immediately dangerous, visitors should heed alerts and be especially cautious when any local wildfires are burning. Occasionally, there will be an '''advisory''' issued for air stagnation, which is a phenomenon involving an air mass that cannot move and therefore stagnates over an area for an extensive period of time. Air pollutants can cause breathing difficulties for those with existing respiratory conditions. If you have a respiratory condition, refer to the '''[https://airquality.weather.gov/ National Weather Service]''' website on air quality to see if any such advisories have been issued for the areas you might visit. ===Disease=== [[File:MOUSE, CALIFORNIA (peromyscus californicus) (5-29-09) cerro alto campground road, slo co, ca -01 (3577515146).jpg|alt=California deermouse|thumb|This cute, large-eared mouse and its tan-colored siblings can carry a deadly virus.]] Deer mice can transmit a virus that causes '''hantaviral pulmonary syndrome'''. You are most likely to get infected if you breathe in dust containing their excrement (feces, urine, and saliva). Realistically, however, hantavirus is of very little concern to the traveler, as only a few people get infected each year, and most of them are exposed on the job, but sensible precautions should be applied. Do '''not''' venture in any wild animal's den or touch deer mice or their excrement. If you need to clean up after rodents, wear waterproof gloves, eye protection, and a high-quality respirator mask, and use disinfectants and wet-mopping techniques, rather than brooms and vacuums (both of which spread virus-laden dust). If you do get infected, treatment usually involves a week or two in the hospital. The main defense against the virus is prevention. ==Stay safe== [[File:Elephant seals fighting.jpg|thumb|Elephant seals fighting, [[San Simeon]]]] ===California–Mexico border=== Due to California's proximity to the international boundary with Mexico, visitors should be cautious while in areas near the border. * Beware Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) checkpoints and patrols. CBP is legally allowed to stop you or your vehicle solely in order to inquire about your citizenship and residency status within 100 miles (160 km) of any international border (in this instance, the US–Mexico border). ''Non-whites, and especially Latinos, should expect to be profiled, targeted, and harassed by these government agents.'' *Know where you are at all times. Follow good safety procedures and use common sense when making decisions. * Do not pick up [[Hitchhiking|hitchhikers]]. If the person is undocumented or carrying drugs, you could be mistaken for a trafficker. * Keep valuables, including spare change, out of sight and lock your vehicle. * Avoid traveling in well-marked but unofficial "trails." * Avoid hiking or camping in areas of major border activity. If you are visiting a national or state park, consult park staff to help plan backcountry travel in safer areas. ====Crossing the border==== Thousands of U.S citizens visit the state of [[Baja California (state)|Baja California, Mexico]] from California every year, with the majority of travelers returning from an enjoyable experience. However, a minority of travelers do experience difficulties and serious inconveniences while traveling to Mexico. Before traveling to Mexico, ensure that you have the proper documentation and are familiar with the recommendations for foreign travel from the '''[https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Mexico.html U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs]''' There are six border crossings between California and Mexico: two between San Diego and [[Tijuana]], one between [[Tecate]] and Tecate, two between [[Calexico]] and [[Mexicali]], and one between Andrade and [[Los Algodones]]. The United States operates a consulate-general in Tijuana and a consulate in Mexicali. Mexico operates Consulates in Calexico, Fresno, Los Angeles, Oxnard, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose and Santa Ana. ===Crime=== The usual inner city crime can be found in the worst parts of [[Los Angeles]], [[San Francisco]], and [[Oakland]]. Central Valley cities, such as [[Sacramento]], [[Stockton (California)|Stockton]], and [[Fresno]] also have gang problems. Northern coastal cities such as [[Eureka]] have an ongoing problem with significant drug activity and property crimes. However, most California cities are safe. As long as you take basic precautions against petty crime, such as keeping your phone and other valuables out of sight in tourist areas, and stay out of obviously run-down neighborhoods, you will probably have a safe and pleasant visit. If you are traveling along the '''Pacific Coast Highway''' or '''Highway 101''', you may notice there are a substantial number of hitch-hikers along the way. Most are harmless youthful travelers or people who just need to get somewhere for lack of other means, while others may be a bit less safe to pick up. Use your best judgement, and, unless you feel confident in the people to whom you're giving a ride, it's probably better not to offer one while you're travelling alone. '''Drugs''' are illegal in California, with the noted exception of '''[[cannabis|marijuana]]'''. Adults 21 and over are allowed to possess, use, and cultivate small amounts of marijuana, so long as it is not consumed in public or possessed on the grounds of a school or day care center. The maximum amount a person may possess is one ounce of marijuana or 8 grams of concentrates. Some dispensaries sell marijuana products to the general public, although others remain restricted to those who have a medical marijuana recommendation from a doctor. Delivery services are also available. Marijuana is still illegal under federal law, so do not carry marijuana across state lines—even to another state where it is legal—as this will be considered drug trafficking and subject to harsh punishment. Also, do not take marijuana onto federal land, including any of the dozens of national parks and national forests in California, or onto flights even within California, as the TSA is a federal agency. If you find yourself in an emergency situation (of any kind), dial '''9-1-1''' on your phone or from any (available) phone. It is a free call from a payphone. ===Earthquakes=== {{Infobox|Earthquake early warnings|Since 2019, California has rolled out an earthquake early warning system called [https://www.shakealert.org/ '''ShakeAlert'''], whose alerts can be received by most smartphones. There are [https://earthquake.ca.gov/get-alerts/ '''various methods'''] that mobile devices can receive alerts for ''imminent'' shaking: * '''Wireless Emergency Alerts''' (WEAs) are sent to capable mobile devices with cellular reception that have ''not'' opted out from receiving emergency alerts. They will appear as an urgent notification with brief instructions to safety coupled with an attention-grabbing sound. * '''Earthquake early warning mobile apps''' can push live notifications to devices when the warning system detects an occurring quake. Such apps typically require enabling '''active location services''' to determine if the device is located inside the area of possible impact. The United States Geological Survey provides [https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/how-do-i-sign-shakealertr-earthquake-early-warning-system '''information about apps for iOS and Android that utilize the ShakeAlert system.'''] * '''Many newer Android devices''' can receive earthquake alerts natively without needing to download an app. This system also requires '''enabling location services''' to determine if it's located in the impacted zone. These alerts will appear either as a notification bar for weak quakes or a full-screen alert for strong quakes with instructions to '''drop, cover, and hold'''. Wireless Emergency Alerts are sent for earthquake events exceeding magnitude 5.0 ''and'' in areas expected to receive shaking intensity of light (Mercalli intensity IV) or greater. For Android alerts, expect to receive them for events exceeding magnitude 4.5 ''and'' in areas where weak shaking (Mercalli intensity III) or stronger is expected. Mobile apps may provide options to customize the threshold of intensity to receive an alert. Warning times are limited to '''seconds''' before the arrival of shaking, and will vary depending on the distance from the epicenter. If you are located at or near the epicenter, you may receive an alert ''during or after'' shaking arrives! Warning times tend to improve the further you are from the epicenter – up to tens of seconds of warning even at a far distance.}} [[Earthquakes]] that are large enough to cause extensive damage are rare, but remain a matter of reality for the state. Most earthquakes are mild and last for a couple of seconds. You're not likely to encounter one during your trip, but if you do, you'll probably go home with nothing more exciting than a story about it being over before you figured out that it was an earthquake. When you feel the shaking, act quickly to '''drop, cover, and hold on'''. The biggest dangers in an earthquake are falling objects (such as books or bottles flying off shelves – or the whole shelf with all of its contents, if it's not properly mounted) and windows, which may shatter explosively. In the event of an earthquake, '''face away from windows''' and '''hide under any sturdy table or desk''' – and then hold on to that table, because the shaking could cause the table to slide across the floor. Contrary to popular belief, do not stand in a door frame; these are structurally weaker spots in modern buildings, and they provide no protection against falling objects. If you are indoors, '''do not run outside!''' Falling building facades are more likely to cause severe injuries than anything inside. If outdoors, stay away from buildings (especially brick chimneys, which may spray bricks around a large area), and stay out from under power lines. If you are driving, your first thought will probably be that something is wrong with your car. Immediately slow down and then stop at the nearest safe place. When the shaking is over (the ground ''and'' your nerves), it's okay to start driving again, but drive cautiously, as traffic signals will likely be out, the road surface may be cracked, other drivers may be panicking, and there may be trees or damaged vehicles blocking the road ahead. ===Deserts=== Along the southern most border of California-Nevada, as well as the border of California-Arizona, California has elaborate desert landscapes which extend into the south central regions of the state, the most famous (or infamous) being the region known as [[Death Valley]], where several tourists and hikers have indeed met their fate while exploring the region. If you are planning on traveling or hiking into these locations, '''follow desert survival guidelines'''. Be sure to take plenty of water (at least one gallon/four litres per person, per day), sunscreen and wear light clothing. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Be sure to have a full tank of gasoline prior to traveling by car into these regions, as many desert locations are extremely remote and without any services for several miles (in some cases nearly 100 miles / 160 km). To break down in these regions could be extremely unpleasant in the best case scenario, tragic in the worst. Also, it is best to hike during the earlier part of the day, as thunderstorms tend to develop suddenly during the afternoon. In the event you encounter inclement weather conditions, seek high ground immediately! Thunderstorms can cause flash flooding in canyons and other low-lying areas. ===Tsunamis=== The incidence of earthquakes in California raises the concern for potential threats of tsunamis. Though tsunamis occur very rarely, a great deal of California's coastline is in a tsunami zone. For more information on the state's hazard assessment, visit the '''[https://nctr.pmel.noaa.gov/state/wa/index.html NOAA Center for Tsunami Research]''' website. ===Wildfires=== [[Wildfires]] are common between May and October, but can also occur at other times. Precautions include the following: clear the area around campfires in campgrounds, never leave flames unattended (even artificial ones), do not throw cigarette ends out of a car, and avoid unnecessary weapon use in dry areas.<!-- My understanding of laws in California is that the latter is illegal anyway. --> The strongest impact from fires is smoke. Smoke affects areas dramatically exceeding the size of the root fire. Travelers with respiratory issues should consult visitor information sites before visiting areas where fires are occurring, or anywhere in the path of the smoke, which can spread across large portions of the state during the worst wildfires. ===Mudslides=== Fire season is followed by the rainy season, and hilly areas where the vegetation has burned are particularly vulnerable to destructive and sometimes deadly mudslides. Heed any evacuation warnings that are issued. ===Wild animals=== '''[[Bears]]''' are found in the Sierra Nevada and all neighboring parts of the state. They're rarely dangerous, but should never be approached. If you are camping, you need to ensure that food, food waste, and other scented items such as soap and toothpaste are secure from them. '''[[Mountain lions]]''' are rarely seen, but live in all mountainous parts of the state and once in a while attack humans. If you see one, yell and wave your arms to make yourself appear as large as possible. '''Coyotes''' are quite common, even in relatively populated areas like the Hollywood Hills. They pose little danger to humans, but will attack dogs, cats and other domestic animals. Many animals, most notoriously bats, can carry rabies. When hiking, watch for [[ticks]], which can carry Lyme disease, and [[rattlesnakes]]. California is home to 2 potentially deadly species of spiders - the black widow and the brown recluse - if you don't go poking around abandoned structures and woodpiles, you're very unlikely to encounter them. If you're bitten by any animal, seek immediate medical attention. Shark attacks have happened once in a great while at California beaches, and deadly sharks such as great whites do roam the California coast, but unless a shark has been repeatedly sighted by a specific beach (the local media will broadcast warnings) this is an extremely remote possibility. ===Poisonous plants and mushrooms=== '''[[Poison oak]]''' can be found almost anywhere in the state, but is particularly common in Southern California, the Central Coast, the Bay Area, and any Coast Redwood woodlands. It's toxic throughout the year, even during the winter when it's lost its leaves. Sensitivity varies by individual, but many people can end up with a very nasty, blistering rash by contacting it. See the linked article for treatment options. California is also home to several '''lethal''' varieties of '''mushrooms''', which can be particularly dangerous to would-be gatherers because some of them resemble edible varieties found elsewhere in the world. Even if you're an expert on mushroom varieties where you live, don't assume you're safe gathering them in California. The poisonous oleander plant is native to California, and the ''Ricinus'' aka castor bean plant, which is the source of ricin and castor oil, is common there. ==Respect== California is filled with a very diverse group of people. Northern and Southern California have notably different cultures, while the rural areas in the Central Valley and Eastern portions of the state differ even more significantly. Sensitive topics include immigration, water rights, and land-use. Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area are especially well known for being some of the most politically liberal areas in the US, and continue to serve as some of the world's major centers of counterculture. Conversely, parts of California, particularly the Central Valley and most areas north of Sacramento, are conservative. However, don't assume any individual's political leaning based on where they live. * California's delicate ecosystem demands our utmost care. Conserving water, adhering to fire safety guidelines, and respecting wildlife habitats are fundamental. * Staying informed about the state's water crisis and adopting water-saving habits is crucial for preserving this precious resource. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== Many countries have consulates in and around [[Los Angeles#Consulates|Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco#Consulates|San Francisco]], with a much smaller number in [[San Bernardino#Consulates|San Bernardino]], [[San Diego#Consulates|San Diego]], and [[Sacramento#Consulates|Sacramento]]. In addition to the above, Mexico has consulates in Calexico, Oxnard, San Jose, Santa Ana, and Fresno. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are only available in the country's language. Some websites are available only in another language. ==See also== The following are additional Wikivoyage articles regarding the history and itineraries for travel within California. The articles also list places of historical or natural significance along the way: {{See also|North America itineraries}} * '''[[El Camino Real]]''' (''The Royal Road'') is a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of California. Stretching over 600 miles (1000 km) from San Diego in the south to Sonoma in the north, the route traverses much of the state and has been a popular traveler itinerary for California motorists for nearly a century. :* The '''[[Pacific Coast Highway]]''' is officially California State Route 1 (CA-1) is one of California's slower state routes, closely following the coastline, which in many places is dominated by cliffs and mountains. The alternatives, including '''[[U.S._Highway_101#California|US-101]]''' and '''[[Interstate 5#California|Interstate 5]]''' (with CA-1 sometimes concurrent with US-101), are for those who want to travel more quickly, while CA-1 is the best route for sightseeing California's beautiful coast. El Camino Real lines is best accessed from US Highway 101 and the Pacific Highway (CA-1) between San Diego and Sonoma. * '''[[Arroyo del Valle Trail]]''' is south of the city of Livermore, which is in the Bay Area region of California. The Arroyo Del Valle trail is part of a longer trail network that extends from Livermore, California, through the Diablo Range to Fremont, California at Mission Peak Regional Park. It's about 30 mi (48 km) in all and later parts of the trail network are quite remote, but the part described in this article is used by the general public more frequently than the rest of the hike due to its proximity to the cities of the Tri-Valley. * '''[[East Shore Trail]]''' goes from the northern staging area to the southeast staging area at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore, California. It is approximately 7 miles (11 km) long, with optional extensions at each end. * The '''[[Fiction tourism|Fictional tourism article]]''' aims at locations around the world famous from literature, motion pictures, television series, video games, comic books and other media. Numerous movies and television shows, such as [[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]], [[Terminator tourism|Terminator]], [[Cocoa Beach#Lori Wilson Park|I Dream of Jeannie]], [[Studio City#Brady Residence|Brady Bunch]], etc. have been filmed in Southern California which also served as a backdrop for many of these same films. [[Universal Studios Hollywood|Universal Studios]] even have a theme park to allow the public to get an up close tour of their production studios. * The '''[[Iron Horse Regional Trail]]''' is a biking and walking trail in the East Bay. Formerly a railroad for transporting fruit and grain, it's now a 32-mile (51-kilometer) paved "rail trail" through Concord, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Danville, San Ramon, Dublin, and Pleasanton. * The '''[[Ohlone Wilderness Trail]]''' is a hiking route in the East Bay. It goes from Livermore to Fremont in California across numerous mountain ranges and canyons, and is by no means an easy hike. * California has several dozen state parks that focus on historic locations. The '''[[Olompali–Petaluma–Sonoma historic parks]]''' just north of the San Francisco Bay have significant connections to the rancho era of Mexican Republic. This itinerary will take you through these three state historic parks in a day trip from the Bay area. Each is near a different city in California Wine Country. * The '''[[San Francisco Crosstown Trail]]''' crosses [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco]] from its northwestern edge at Lands End to its southeastern corner at Candlestick Point. Designed by a group of local volunteers, the route connects various hiking paths in local parks with sidewalks and staircases in residential neighborhoods to create a continuous 17-mile (27-km) trail. See also the [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco article]] for a list of in-city itineraries. ==Go next== * '''[[Arizona]]''' – Home to the [[Grand Canyon]], Arizona borders California to the southeast across the Colorado River. * '''[[Nevada]]''' – California's eastern neighbor is best known as the home of [[Las Vegas]], although towns such as [[Reno]] and [[Carson City]] are also good day-trip opportunities for visitors wanting to explore the Silver State. * '''[[Oregon]]''' – Sharing a border to the north, Oregon is home to impressive mountains and extensive forests. * '''[[Hawaii]]''' – Many visitors to America's fiftieth state depart through California on their journey across the Pacific, but it is not a neighboring state and requires a 5-hour flight to get there. * '''[[Baja California]]''' – Those traveling across the border to [[Mexico]] can visit some of that country's most impressive sea and landscapes. [[Tijuana]], [[Ensenada]] and [[Mexicali]] are also good day-trip options for visitors staying in Southern California to explore another country without going to far. {{usableregion}} {{isPartOf|United States}} {{geo|37|-119.5|zoom=6}} {{related|Off-road_vehicles_in_California}} {{related|California_desert_camping}} qixq29grqwtoezk1cbo9bibdo3jmq9p 5288917 5288916 2026-06-06T17:22:40Z Anyone150 1516949 /* Major highways */ 5288917 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Antelope Valley banner.jpg|caption=California Poppy Preserve in the Antelope Valley}} One of the most diverse states in the [[United States of America|Union]], '''California''' has a culture ranging from the easygoing surf spots on the beaches of [[Southern California]] to the glamor of [[Hollywood]], and the counterculture and thriving businesses of the [[Bay Area]]. The state, which is on the [[West Coast (United States)|west coast of the U.S.]], also varies greatly in natural beauty, from redwood forests on the [[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] to the ski resorts of the rugged [[Sierra Nevada]] mountains and the harsh desert of [[Death Valley]]. The largest state in the U.S. by population and the third largest by area, California boasts world-famous attractions and sights: [[Disneyland]], the [[Golden Gate Bridge]], the [[Napa Valley]] wine country, and the tallest mountain in the [[United States of America#Geography|contiguous United States]], [[Mount Whitney]]. Granted statehood in 1850 following the California Gold Rush, it bears the nickname "the '''Golden State'''", and the sites of the former goldfields are known as the [[Gold Country]]. ==Regions== California is geographically varied, ranging from warm beaches to snowy mountains to fertile farmland to extreme desert. In the middle of the state is the farmland of the Central Valley, which provides produce to the whole country. The conventional wisdom is that there is a huge difference—and also rivalry—between the Southern California area around Los Angeles (or as Californians often say, “LA”) and Northern California centered around the San Francisco Bay Area. There is also a cultural clash between the large liberal coastal cities, and more conservative parts of the state such as Orange County, the Central Valley, and the far northeast part of the state. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Ca-regions.png | regionmapsize=480px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] | region1color=#b2b24d | region1description=Home to the world's tallest trees, the coast redwoods, as well as rugged coastlines and remote nature adventures. | region2name=[[Shasta Cascades]] | region2color=#c375a0 | region2description=Lakes and mountains off the beaten path in the state's northeast corner. | region3name=[[Sacramento Valley]] | region3color=#5bc7c0 | region3description=Home of [[Sacramento]], the state capital, and the urban areas around the city. | region4name=[[Gold Country]] | region4color=#d2d20d | region4description=Historic foothills leading east to the Sierras; the 1848 discovery of gold in this region brought many Americans to California and helped California become a state less than five years after the territory had been acquired. | region5name=[[Sierra Nevada]] | region5color=#5ea54a | region5description=California's alpine and skiing region, including [[Yosemite National Park]] and [[Lake Tahoe]]. | region6name=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]] | region6color=#d06666 | region6description=Home to the cities of [[San Francisco]], [[Oakland]], and [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]], as well as the technology-centered [[Silicon Valley]] and sophisticated [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. | region7name=[[San Joaquin Valley]] | region7color=#a0a0c0 | region7description=Breadbasket of California and home to a large percentage of America's fruit and vegetable supply. | region8name=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] | region8color=#5fb388 | region8description=An isolated stretch of land that features cool mountains and a rugged coastline. | region9name=[[Southern California]] | region9color=#ac663d | region9description=Home to the metropolis of [[Los Angeles]], as well as [[San Diego]], [[Disneyland]], [[Hollywood]], and miles of famous beaches. | region10name=[[Desert (California)|Desert]] | region10color=#d5a90b | region10description=Palm trees, Joshua trees, blazing sun, ghost towns and quirky resorts. Miles of [[Route 66]]. Home of [[Death Valley National Park|Death Valley]] and [[Joshua Tree National Park]]s. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b2b24d|title=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]]|wikidata=Q156186,Q109651,Q108087,Q156361}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c375a0|title=[[Shasta Cascades]]|wikidata=Q156374,Q156188,Q156350,Q109695,Q156340,Q109705,Q156342,Q156181}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5bc7c0|title=[[Sacramento Valley]]|wikidata=Q271601,Q271609,Q156377,Q196014,Q109709,Q108131}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d2d20d|title=[[Gold Country]]|wikidata=Q156370,Q109681,Q156353,Q156177,Q108093,Q271613,Q156346,Q156191}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5ea54a|title=[[Sierra Nevada]]|wikidata=Q108077,Q156366}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d06666|title=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]]|wikidata=Q108117,Q108067,Q108137,Q108083,Q108058,Q107146,Q62,Q108101,Q108122,Q110739}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a0a0c0|title=[[San Joaquin Valley]]|wikidata=Q108499,Q108503,Q109690,Q109661,Q271915,Q156358,Q109686,Q108047}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5fb388|title=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]]|wikidata=Q108072,Q109656,Q49014,Q108106,Q108127}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#ac663d|title=[[Southern California]] and [[Desert (California)|Desert]]|wikidata=Q104994,Q5925,Q108143,Q169952,Q108111,Q108053,Q109670}} ==Cities== [[File:San Francisco with approaching fog.jpg|thumb|400px|San Francisco, partly enshrouded in fog]] {{mapframe}} Here are a few of California's most notable cities, listed from north to south. <!--Please note: This is just a sampler of the cities most visited, with some geographic spread. If you want to add a new city, please locate the correct sub-region article that your city resides in and add the city there instead. --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Eureka]]|url=|lat=40.801944|long=-124.163611|wikidata=Q488702}} – former logging town with charming Victorian city center, waterfront trails, and Redwood Sky Walk featuring the world's tallest tree species. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Redding]]|url=|lat=40.576667|long=-122.370278|wikidata=Q495361}} – Sundial Bridge and gateway to a plethora of outdoor adventures ranging from underground caverns to some of the highest volcanic peaks in the United States. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Sacramento]]|url=|lat=38.555556|long=-121.468889|wikidata=Q18013}} – the laid-back state capital with historic Gold Rush-era quarter of the city, Old Sacramento. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Francisco]]|url=|lat=37.7857 |long=-122.4061 |wikidata=Q62}} – Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, America's largest Chinatown, cable cars, and Victorian houses. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Jose (California)|San Jose]]|url=|lat=37.333333|long=-121.9|wikidata=Q16553}} – south of San Francisco, this city is the center of Silicon Valley, and is home to many technology companies and the (in)famous Winchester Mystery House. *{{marker|type=city| name=[[Santa Barbara]] | lat=34.421 | long=-119.698| wikidata=Q159288}} – city on a south-facing coast which styles itself, with some justification, as "the American Riviera." *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Los Angeles]]|url=|lat=34.05|long=-118.25|wikidata=Q65}} – the state's largest city, and 2nd-largest in the nation. L.A. is home to Hollywood, Venice, The Getty Center, and Griffith Park. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Palm Springs]]|url=|lat=33.830278|long=-116.545278|wikidata=Q488004}} – desert recreation with golf, spas, resorts, casinos, and the famous aerial tramway. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Diego]]|url=| lat=32.7157 | long=-117.1547 ||wikidata=Q16552}} – Balboa Park, Old Town, SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, and nearby Tijuana, Mexico. ==Other destinations== [[File:4076-joshua-tree RJ.JPG|thumb|[[Joshua Tree National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Big Sur]]|lat=36.27028|long=-121.80750|wikidata=Q859413}} can be loosely defined as the stretch of coastline between Carmel and San Simeon, and the steep cliffs, rocky coast, churning waves, abundant wildlife, redwoods, and remoteness make it a stunningly beautiful drive. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Death Valley|Death Valley National Park]]|lat=36.45|long=-117.09|wikidata=Q242111}} – a place of legend and a place of trial. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Disneyland]]|lat=33.8091|long=-117.9190|wikidata=Q1229066}} – this world-famous amusement park opened its doors in 1955 and today draws around 16 million yearly visitors. The California Adventure theme park was added in 2001 and provides attractions inspired by the state's scenery and movie industry. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Joshua Tree National Park]]|lat=33.86|long=-115.89|wikidata=Q735202}} – combines two different desert ecosystems anchored by the peculiar-looking namesake tree species. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Tahoe]]|lat=39.091667|long=-120.041667|wikidata=Q169962}} – a deep blue mountain lake, popular for water sports in the summer and skiing in the winter. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Napa Valley]]|lat=38.50|long=-122.32|wikidata=Q1151105}} – the premier wine region of the United States, with spas, wine tasting and wine tours; the historic heart of [[California Wine Country]]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]|lat=36.56472|long=-118.77337}} – these twin parks hold monuments to nature's size, beauty, and diversity, including the largest tree on Earth, the General Sherman Tree. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Yosemite National Park]]|lat=37.7333|long=-119.5500|wikidata=Q180402}} – one of the first wilderness parks in the United States, the site of natural wonders such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and numerous waterfalls. California also has [[California state parks|many state parks]], approximately half of which are near urban centers. This is in addition to the state's eight [[United States national parks#California|national parks]] found across the state. ==Understand== [[File:Mission Santa Clara.jpg|thumb|Mission [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]]]] ===History=== {{see also|Indigenous cultures of North America|Old West}} Human settlement in California goes back 50,000 years; California was home to 30 different tribal groups prior to the arrival of European explorers in the 1500s and now over 120 tribes are left. The first Europeans to discover what is now California were the Spanish and Portuguese. Spanish colonialism was established through '''[[El Camino Real|twenty-one missions]]''' built throughout California by the late 1700s. These missions still survive today, stretching from [[San Diego]] on the Mexican border to [[Sonoma]] in the northern San Francisco Bay Area. After the Mexican War for Independence in 1821, California became a part of [[Mexico]] for 25 years until 1846, when many of its residents declared a sovereign nation (the '''California Republic''', also called the ''Bear Flag Republic'') before it was annexed by the United States in 1846, and has since then had an image as the "land of opportunity" and the final destination of luck-seekers. The 1848 discovery of gold in the Sierra Nevada mountains kicked off the '''California Gold Rush''', and California's non-native population surged from 15,000 to over 300,000 within two years. People who moved to California during the Gold rush were often called "49ers", a term that was adopted as the name for the San Francisco [[American Football|football]] team. California became a state in 1850, and its population has increased steadily since then. [[Los Angeles]], a city which once boasted one of the longest streetcar networks in the world, boomed through defense contractors and later converted to a "freeway" city after the streetcars were dismantled. The city hosted Olympic Games twice (1932 & 1984) at times when the Olympic movement was in crisis and the games were largely seen as successes for the city as well as the Olympic movement. [[Post-war United States|In the post-war years]], California (especially the [[Bay Area]]) became a hotspot of counterculture, including popular music, the anti-war movement, and the LGBT community. Since the late 20th century, the state and in particular, the Bay Area, has been at the forefront of the Digital Revolution, with innovations such as personal computers and smartphones having been introduced through '''Silicon Valley'''. Today California is the most populous state in the US with over 38 million residents. Taken by itself, California would rank as one of the world's top ten economies and Californian places like Silicon Valley, Hollywood and San Francisco are known globally and have shaped not only American but world culture. Politically, California is seen as a solidly "blue" state: it has a two-thirds majority of Democrats in both chambers of the legislature and often provides the Democratic party with particularly left-wing ideas, especially on social issues. That said, the state actually contains a lot of political diversity, with conservative views prevalent in much of the state outside the densely populated Bay Area and Los Angeles County, particularly in the fertile but relatively sparsely populated [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. ===Landscape=== [[File:Giant sequoias in Sequoia National Park 2013.jpg|thumb|Sequoia National Park]] With over 160,000 square miles (411,000 km²), the landscape of California is vast and varied, and the stereotypical beach paradise is only the tip of the iceberg. The state contains extremes in elevation, with [[Mount Whitney]] at 14,505 ft (4,421 m) being the tallest mountain in the [[lower 48]] states, while less than 200 miles (320 km) away [[Death Valley]], at 282 ft (82 m) below sea level, is North America's lowest point. California's border to the west is made up of a rugged coastline along the Pacific Ocean. The coastal mountains rise up from the ocean and are home to redwood trees in their northern half. Moving eastward, the Central Valley bisects California from north-to-south, before giving way to the Sierra Nevada mountains, which are home to [[Yosemite National Park]], [[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]], and other natural wonders. The southeastern part of California is dominated by desert, which covers 25% of California's total area. The [[Mojave Desert|Mojave]] is a high desert, with elevations ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 ft (1,000 to 2,000 m) above sea level. This area receives less than six inches (152 mm) of rain each year. ===Climate=== [[File:Surfers At Steamer Lane Santa Cruz CA. - panoramio.jpg|alt=Surfers on the water|thumb|Wetsuits were invented in Santa Cruz because the ocean is so cold.]] The state's climate varies from subtropical at the coast to the brutal winters of the mountains to one of the world's hottest regions in the deserts. Rainfall is more common in the northern part of the state than in the south, and snow is rare except in the mountains. Most precipitation occurs during winter, but California experiences frequent droughts. This has prompted people to install drought-resistant landscaping. In some years, farms lie fallow due to lack of water for irrigation. The hottest temperature ever recorded in the Western Hemisphere, 134°F (56.6°C) was at Death Valley in 1913, and temperatures here regularly exceed 120°F (50°C) during the summer. In contrast, winter temperatures in the mountains can drop below 0°F (-20°C). In between these extremes there are great local variations in climate due to topography and the influence of the Pacific Ocean upon precipitation and temperature, with temperatures becoming increasingly moderated nearer the coastline. For swimming, the Pacific Ocean can be surprisingly cold even in July due to currents. September and October are the best months for swimming. Another surprise in coastal areas is the presence of cool temperatures and fog in the mornings through most of the year. To experience California as a sunny place, plan to sleep late. ===People=== California is a very diverse state with many ethnic groups. California has large populations of people of varied backgrounds such as Mexican, Salvadoran, Guatemalan, Armenian, Iranian, Jewish, Chinese, Russian, Filipino, Eastern Indian, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Thai, and Hmong. California also has large populations of African Americans and Native Americans. Although typically considered to be a liberal state, Californians have a wide variety of political views which tend to vary based on region. The Central Valley, [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]], San Diego, and Palm Springs area tend to be more conservative, while [[Los Angeles County]] and the [[Bay Area|San Francisco Bay Area]] are among the most progressive areas in the country. California is a large and diverse state, with different cultures in each region. ===Holidays=== California observes all the [[Holidays of the United States|federal holidays]], except Columbus Day, and adds Farmworkers Day on March 31st (or nearest weekday). However, some cities such as [[Coronado (California)|Coronado]] that have a large population of federal workers or military personnel do observe Columbus Day. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitcalifornia.com/ Visit California] website ==Talk== [[File:Golden Hour at Emerald Bay.jpg|thumb|Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe]] Although the California Constitution states that '''English''' is the official language of the state of California, in reality, California is a multilingual state. American English is the main language and '''[[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]''' is the ''de facto'' second language, and a knowledge of even rudimentary Spanish is useful in most cities from Sacramento to San Diego. Los Angeles has some of the largest Hispanic populations north of Mexico. The state is highly influenced by Spanish culture due to its history, and it is not uncommon to see store and street signs written in both English and Spanish. "Spanglish" (a mixture of English and Spanish) is often used and heard throughout the state. Even people with no Latino heritage whatsoever sometimes speak fluent Spanish or use common Spanish-derived expressions when speaking English. Most government offices and tourist attractions, as well as many businesses in California have at least a few employees who are bilingual in English and Spanish. In fact, some restaurants may have a workforce that is more fluent in Spanish than English. Due to a history of Asian immigration and influence, Asian languages such as Cantonese, Mandarin, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, and Hindi are also spoken among Asian Californian populations. The major cities also tend to have communities of essentially any ethnicity imaginable, and there is a good chance you can hear their language and have an opportunity to experience their cultures. San Francisco, for example, is home to a significant French community, while Los Angeles boasts quite a large Ethiopian neighborhood. ==Get in== [[File:Skyscraper Los Angeles Downtown 2013.jpg|thumb|Skyscrapers in Downtown L.A.]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Flying in the United States}} [[San Francisco International Airport]] ({{IATA|SFO}}) and [[Los Angeles International Airport]] ({{IATA|LAX}}) are the most popular entry points with a wide variety of flights from [[Europe]], [[East Asia]], [[India]], [[Oceania]] ([[Australia]], [[Fiji]], [[New Zealand]], [[Tahiti]], etc.), [[Latin America]] and from various cities in the U.S. on a variety of U.S. and foreign flag carriers. To a lesser extent there are also direct flights from the [[Middle East]] ([[Israel]], [[Qatar]], [[Saudi Arabia]], [[Turkey]] and the [[United Arab Emriates]]) to Los Angeles. They are however also the most crowded and the SFO-LAX route is one of the busiest air corridors in the world causing frequent delays due to congestion. Delays at San Francisco airport due to fog are also somewhat common. If coming from within the U.S. and from Mexico there are other alternate airports in California that are less crowded and may be closer to your final destination. They are: :* Los Angeles area – [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Hollywood-Burbank Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]] (closest to Hollywood and Downtown Los Angeles), [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa_Ana_(California)|Orange County]] (closest to Disneyland & Knott's Berry Farm), [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario International Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}) in Ontario (closest to Joshua Tree and the Inland Empire deserts), and [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach Airport] ({{IATA|LGB}}) in [[Long Beach]]. :* San Francisco Bay Area – [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport] ({{IATA|OAK}}) in Oakland (closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose Airport] ({{IATA|SJC}}) in San Jose (closest to Silicon Valley), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] ({{IATA|STS}}) in [[Santa Rosa (California)|Santa Rosa]] (closest to Wine Country). Both San Francisco and Oakland airports are now connected to the local metro network, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a bus route 10 to the 'Santa Clara Station'. :* [[San Diego International Airport]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) in San Diego :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento Airport]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) in Sacramento :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno Airport]] ({{IATA|RNO}}) in [[Reno]], Nevada is closer to [[Lake Tahoe]] than from Sacramento. :* [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno Airport] ({{IATA|FAT}}) in Fresno, closest to Yosemite NP and the major airport in the [[San Joaquin Valley]]. :* Palm Springs ({{IATA|PSP}}) :* Central Coast – Monterey ({{IATA|MRY}}) (closest to Big Sur), San Luis Obispo ({{IATA|SBP}}) (closest to Hearst Castle), and Santa Barbara ({{IATA|SBA}}). :* [[Harry_Reid_International_Airport|Las Vegas]] ({{IATA|LAS}}), Nevada is closer to Death Valley NP than from Los Angeles or Ontario. :* [[Tijuana#By plane|Tijuana Airport]] ({{IATA|TIJ}}) in Tijuana. If coming from Mexico it may be more advantageous to fly to Tijuana on a (Mexican) domestic flight and then cross into San Diego by ground transportation or through its second terminal (CBX) on the American side of the border than on an international flight to San Diego, Los Angeles, or other cities further north. From San Diego, you can continue north to the San Francisco Bay area, Las Vegas, [[Phoenix]] or wherever in the U.S. you are continuing to. See [[California#By plane 2|By plane]] under the "Get Around" section for more information. ===By train=== {{see also|Rail travel in the United States}} [[Amtrak]] serves several routes into and out of California. If you are going to Los Angeles from the Central Valley, you might have to change to a bus for the last part of the trip, as the only railway connection between the Central Valley and Los Angeles is also one of the busiest freight lines in the United States. Plans to build a new [[high speed rail]] line to link San Francisco and Los Angeles are underway, but completion is not scheduled before the late 2020s. The following Amtrak routes serve California and terminate in [[Los Angeles#By train|Los Angeles]] or [[Emeryville]]: * The ''[[California Zephyr]]'' runs daily between [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] and [[Emeryville]] with connections in [[Omaha]], [[Denver]], [[Provo]], [[Salt Lake City]] and [[Reno|Reno/Lake Tahoe]]. This train also stops in the Sierra Nevada (Truckee and Colfax) and the Sacramento Valley (Roseville, [[Sacramento]], Davies and Martinez). Emeryville is the nearest Amtrak station to downtown San Francisco where passengers transfer to the Amtrak Thruway bus to continue across the bay to San Francisco. * The ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' runs daily between Los Angeles and [[Seattle#By train|Seattle]] via [[Portland (Oregon)#By train|Portland]], [[Klamath Falls]], [[Redding]], [[Bay Area (California)|San Francisco Bay Area]], Santa Barbara, [[San Luis Obispo]] and [[Oxnard]]. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/southwest-chief-train.html Southwest Chief]'' runs daily from [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] via [[Kansas City]], [[Albuquerque]], [[Flagstaff]], Williams Junction (nearest stop to the [[Grand Canyon]]) and [[Kingman]] to Los Angeles. It also makes stops in the Mojave Desert ([[Needles]], [[Barstow]] and [[Victorville]]); the [[Inland Empire]] ([[Riverside]] and [[San Bernardino]]) and Orange County ([[Fullerton]]) and on its way into Los Angeles. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/sunset-limited-train.html Sunset Limited]'' runs three times a week from [[New Orleans]] via [[Houston]], [[San Antonio]], [[El Paso]], [[Tucson]] and [[Yuma]]. Additionally, Amtrak's ''[http://www.texaseagle.com/ Texas Eagle]'' service between San Antonio and Chicago incorporates the Sunset Limited to provide a direct connection to Los Angeles with the same stops as the Sunset Limited between San Antonio and Los Angeles. This train also stops in the Inland Empire ([[Pomona]], Ontario and Palm Springs). Train services are limited to two token lines with hardly any real transport value in Mexico and there are ''no'' passenger rail service to anywhere near the U.S./Mexican border from anywhere in Mexico. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to California. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''By bus'' under ''Get around'' in the below for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By car=== All major road entrances (including entrances from other U.S. States) to California have agricultural inspection stations to ensure that some fruits and vegetables do not cross into a region where they may come into contact with the farms in the [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. Often, travelers are subject to border inspection (somewhat strict for domestic travel) and asked if they have been on a farm or are carrying organic matter with them. ==Get around== California is the third largest state of the U.S. by area (after [[Alaska]] and [[Texas]]). It compares in size with [[Sweden]]. However, getting around California can be simple. ===By car=== [[File:California State Route 1 in Marin County.jpg|California State Route 1|thumb|right|250px]] [[File:405 southbound near Getty Museum.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Interstate 405 in Los Angeles]] In addition to interstates and US highways, California has one of the most expansive state highway systems in the United States. As with all long-distance trips in the United States, a car is generally the best way to get around and see destinations, especially rural ones. However the trip from the northern end of California to the southern end can take well over ten hours as the state's varied and in places rugged terrain can pose obstacles to the road network. The coast routes (State Route 1 and U.S. 101) are much slower and windier than Interstate 5, and GPS travel estimate times may be inaccurate, especially on Highway 1. Most California drivers are courteous and careful (although speeding is rampant), and the safety and ease of driving in California is comparable to most wealthy countries. Exceptions may be found in the most congested areas of San Francisco and Los Angeles &mdash; where potholes, road rage and reckless driving are commonplace &mdash; and some country roads in mountain ranges. Information about vehicle collisions and other non-congestion traffic problems on highways are reported online at [https://www.chp.ca.gov/traffic chp.ca.gov/traffic]. Traffic congestion is tracked by most online map sites. Gasoline prices are more expensive than in other parts of the U.S.; consider public transit in highly populated areas such as the Bay Area where prices are especially high. ====Freeway signage (and cautions)==== California uses the MUTCD (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices) lane marking system standard throughout the United States, in which dashed white lines divide lanes of through traffic and yellow divides opposing traffic (with single dashed indicating passing and double solid indicating no passing). In many urban areas the lane markings are replaced by Botts dots for additional tactile feedback when crossing lanes. The network of freeways in major population centers is often confusing and intimidating to those unfamiliar with the area, so having a good map is very helpful. The great majority of exits from freeways are on the right. At interchanges between freeways, in most cases, the flow of traffic continues through the left lanes with the transition to the other freeway being in the right lanes. At some freeway interchanges, Caltrans (California Dept. of Transportation) is notorious for posting advance direction signs that do not correctly explain which lanes correspond to which ramps. Additionally, Caltrans does not always post signs warning of upcoming lane drops or merges. For example, where a freeway has three through lanes and the central lane splits into two lanes, thus resulting in two ramps with two lanes each, the advance signage may incorrectly imply that only the right lane will break off for the upcoming right-side ramp, thus causing visitors driving in the middle lane to merge unnecessarily into the right lane. And the two lanes on the right-side ramp may suddenly merge into each other without any warning. These issues frequently result in visitors making wild last-minute lane merges. Approach major freeway interchanges in California with caution. Mile-based exit numbering is in progress but is still very erratic in areas; an exit number may not be marked at all, may be marked on the last directional sign before the exit, or may be marked on the final "Exit" sign where the exit ramp separates. ====Ramp meters==== In urban areas, the access ramps to a freeway may have traffic lights for each lane (called ramp meters or ramp metering lights; you'll see warning signs that read "meter on"). During high-traffic times, the traffic light spaces out the vehicles attempting to merge onto the freeway. Be sure to read the sign below the light as ramps can allow 1 to 3 vehicles per green light. Most ramp meters are for ramps from local roads to a freeway, but some freeway junctions have meters on their ramps too. ====Toll roads and bridges==== Most highways are freely accessible and toll-free. However, California has some toll bridges, toll roads, and tolled Express Lanes. Toll road and bridges are indicated on road signs. When a toll-free road flows directly into a toll road or bridge, there is sometimes a sign for "last exit before toll". FasTrak electronic toll collection (ETC) via toll transponders or tags is used for all toll facilities. Cash is no longer accepted. FasTrak is not compatible with any other state's ETC system. Some California toll authorities also allow online pay-by-plate, but if no signage mentions it, assume it is unavailable. If you drive a vehicle through a toll gantry without an active FasTrak account and the toll authority has no pay by plate option, you may receive an expensive ticket for nonpayment of toll. In Northern California, all major bridges in the San Francisco Bay Area have toll plazas, with tolls charged on traffic in only one direction. The plazas are unmanned and will be replaced with gantries for open-road tolling, but for now, drivers must slow to 20 mph to pass through them. Southern California has several toll roads in Orange County which use open-road tolling. "Express Lanes" are high-occupancy (HOV) lanes (carpool lanes) that non-high-occupancy vehicles can often use by paying a toll. Electronic signs will indicate whether the Express Lane is "open to all" (no toll is charged) or "HOV only" (only HOVs eligible for toll-free access may use the lane). If the signs show a price in dollars and cents, it means that non-HOV vehicles may use the Express Lane but will be charged that toll. During times of severe traffic congestion, Express Lanes may charge tolls of $20 or more per vehicle. HOVs are supposed to be exempt from tolls in Express Lanes. Some Express Lane operators require all HOVs to carry FasTrak Flex transponders to signal their toll-free status. If you are legally using a free carpool lane and a sign warns it will turn into a tolled Express Lane, you must merge immediately back into regular lanes if you do not have FasTrak Flex. ====HOV/carpool lanes==== Some freeways have a high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane on the far left. This lane, also called the carpool lane or diamond lane, is marked by: * a diamond symbol painted on the road surface * signage on the wall separating the two sides of the freeway, with the diamond symbol * a double yellow line on the road surface (only in Southern California) Some freeway access ramps have carpool lanes too; often, the non-carpool lanes will have ramp meter traffic lights while the carpool lane has none. In most cases, the carpool lane is only for vehicles with 2 or more persons inside, motorcycles, and clean-air vehicles with [https://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/carpool/carpool.htm government-issued "Access OK" stickers]. Sometimes, 3 or more persons and/or a FasTrak transponder may be required, so check the signage before entering a carpool lane. Carpool lane restrictions may be enforced 24 hours a day every day, or only when the signage says so (in those cases, it's usually only during rush hour on weekdays). Carpool lanes in Southern California have limited access points marked by a dashed white line. This is the only point at which a vehicle may legally enter or exit a carpool lane, since you are not allowed to cross a double yellow line. The minimum fine for unlawful use of a carpool lane is $490. ====Traffic safety and law enforcement==== All persons in a moving vehicle are required to wear a seatbelt and the driver and all passengers can be individually ticketed for failing to do so. Motorcycle riders must wear a helmet. Cellphone users are required to use a hands-free headset if talking on the phone while driving. Texting by the driver is illegal, as is any action on the phone that forces the driver to touch it more than once (and even single-touch actions are only allowed if the phone is mounted securely rather than hand-held). Unless otherwise signed, right-turns are permitted at red lights following a full stop. If it is raining hard enough to require you to use your windshield wipers, California law requires that your headlights be turned on. Most California police officers carry radar guns to catch speeding drivers. The California Highway Patrol occasionally flies aircraft overhead to spot speeders and help ground units home in on their positions. Red light enforcement cameras are in use at many urban intersections, but are marked only by a single "photo enforced" sign before the intersection. Speed enforcement cameras are being piloted in a few cities, including San Francisco and Los Angeles; the cameras are small and hard to spot. California's laws against driving under the influence of alcohol are very strict; the maximum permissible blood alcohol concentration is 0.08%. All drivers are strongly encouraged to call 911 to report drunk drivers. California requires disabled out-of-state visitors to apply at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for a travel placard for handicapped parking. It is valid for 90 days. Travelers with a non-US driver's license are generally permitted to drive in California. However, travelers who are in California for more than 10 days with some kinds of visas, especially the K-1 non-immigrant visa for future spouses, have run into some difficulties over their place of residence. The DMV refuses to issue drivers' licenses to people with non-immigrant visas, but police have filed charges against some of them for becoming a California resident without promptly obtaining a California license – the very license that the State refuses to issue on the grounds that they haven't legally become residents yet. This risk may be reduced by giving your non-California address as your place of legal residence if stopped by police. Unlike most states, "lane-splitting" by motorcyclists (i.e. riding down the painted lines between traffic lanes) is legal in California and commonly done in heavy traffic. It's only legal when traffic is going slower than 30 mph, and motorcyclists are only allowed to go 15 mph faster than the general flow of traffic, but many motorcyclists seem to treat this as more of a guideline than a hard and fast rule. As a result, if you're driving a car, take extra care to watch for motorcycles when changing lanes on a major highway. ====Major highways==== [[File:California State Route 1 All American Road sign.jpg|150px|thumb|right|A California State Highway sign. The poppy sign below it indicates that it is a state scenic route]] Here are some important highways in California: * [[File:I-5.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 5]]:''' Runs between San Diego, Los Angeles, and Sacramento, then north into Oregon and Washington. :*[[File:California 99.svg|22px]] '''State Route 99:''' Runs along the California Central Valley between Red Bluff, Sacramento, Stockton, Modesto, Fresno and Bakersfield as the Golden State Freeway. * [[File:I-8.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 8:''' Runs between San Diego, Calexico, Yumma, and Casa Grande, Arizona. * [[File:I-10.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10]]:''' Runs between Santa Monica, Los Angeles, the Inland Empire and Palm Springs, then over the Colorado River into Arizona and points east. * [[File:I-15.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 15:''' Runs between San Diego, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Las Vegas, Nevada and points north. * [[File:I-40.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 40:''' Runs between Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona, towards Oklahoma City and points east. Interstate 40 bypasses or replaces the old Route 66 between Barstow and Oklahoma City (as County Rd 66 in San Bernardino County). :* [[File:US_66_(historic).svg|22px]] '''[[Route 66|Historic Route 66]]:''' Now decommissioned, historically connected Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona and points east. It runs alongside I-40 between Barstow and Oklahoma City and alongside or concurrent with I-15 between Barstow and San Bernardino. * [[File:I-80.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 80#California|Interstate 80]]:''' Runs between the Bay Area, Sacramento, Reno, Nevada, and points east. * [[File:I-405.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 405:''' Runs {{mile|72}} between Northridge and Irvine via Van Nuys, LAX, Culver City, Long Beach, Santa Ana, and point in between as an auxiliary by-pass of I-5 through the Los Angeles Area. * [[File:I-580.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 580:''' Connects the San Francisco Bay Area with Interstate 5 in the Central Valley * [[File:US 50.svg|22px]]'''U.S. Highway 50:''' Runs between Sacramento, South Lake Tahoe, Carson City, Nevada, and points east * [[File:US 101.svg|22px]] '''[[U.S._Highway_101#California|U.S. Highway 101]]:''' Runs between Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, then close to the California Coast to the San Francisco Bay, Eureka and points north :* [[File:California 1.svg|22px]] '''[[Pacific Coast Highway|State Route 1]]:''' Runs up the California Coast between Orange County, Los Angeles, Monterey, the Bay Area, and [[Fort Bragg]] * [[File:US 395.svg|22px]] '''[[U.S._Highway_395#California|'U.S. Highway 395]]:''' Runs along the Eastern Sierras, connecting the Inland Empire and High Desert with Bishop, Reno, and Susanville, then into Oregon and points north ====Taxis and rideshares==== Taxis and rideshare services (Uber and Lyft) are widely available in and around California's largest cities: San Francisco, Los Angeles (including Orange County), San Diego, and Sacramento. They are less likely to be available in small towns and rural areas. ====Robotaxis==== Waymo operates a robotaxi service with self-driving vehicles in two service areas: one on the San Francisco Peninsula from San Francisco to downtown San Jose, and another in the western part of Los Angeles south of the Santa Monica Mountains, from downtown Los Angeles to Santa Monica and as far south as Inglewood. However, Waymo does not yet have authorization to provide service to Los Angeles International Airport. Only San Jose International Airport allows Waymo unrestricted access to pick up and drop off passengers. Waymo is now able to drive on freeways, and it can also pick up and drop off at San Francisco International Airport, but only at the Rental Car Center (10 minutes to the terminals via AirTrain tram). Both features are subject to wait lists, making them less useful to new users. ===By plane=== [[File:LAX LA.jpg|Los Angeles International Airport|250px|thumb|right]] Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state. [https://www.aa.com American/American Eagle]; [https://www.united.com/ United/United Express]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.delta.com Delta], [https://www.southwest.com Southwest], [https://www.jetblue.com JetBlue], [http://www.jsx.com Jet Suite X (JSX)], [https://www.spirit.com Spirit] and [https://www.alaskaair.com Alaska Airlines] offer intrastate flights within the state of California. San Francisco is a hub for United and Alaska; while Los Angeles is a hub for United, American/American Eagle, Delta, JetBlue and Alaska Airlines. The LAX-SFO route is one of the busiest in America which means competitive fares and delays are frequent which is only made worse by the fog that tends to hit San Francisco bay on a regular basis. In addition, the airlines offer flights from different airports in [[Southern California#By plane|southern California]] in the south; to the [[Bay_Area_(California)#By plane|SF Bay area]] and to Sacramento in the north at competitive rates. A route between lesser-known airports (say, Burbank to Oakland) may save you money and avoid airport chaos compared to LAX-SFO. The primary airports served by major US carriers, Volaris (from Mexico) and Aeromexico (from Mexico) in California are in: :* Los Angeles area – [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles International]] ({{IATA|LAX}}), [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Burbank-Hollywood Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]], [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa Ana_(California)|Orange County]]; [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}), and a small airport in [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach] ({{IATA|LGB}}) :* San Francisco Bay Area – [[San Francisco International Airport|San Francisco]] ({{IATA|SFO}}), [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay] ({{IATA|OAK}}), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose] ({{IATA|SJC}}), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] (Charles M. Schulz Airport) ({{IATA|STS}}) in Santa Rosa; both San Francisco and Oakland airport are now connected to the metro, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a free shuttle at the 'Santa Clara Station'. Oakland is closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO is and offers a fog-free alternative. :* [[San Diego#By plane|San Diego]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno]] ({{IATA|RNO}}), Nevada closer to the Lake Tahoe area than Sacramento The busiest second tier airports are [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno] ({{IATA|FAT}}) (nearest to Yosemite NP); [https://flysba.santabarbaraca.gov/ Santa Barbara] ({{IATA|SBA}}); and [https://flypsp.com/ Palm Springs] ({{IATA|PSP}}). There are also flights from major hubs to [[Arcata]]/McKinleyville (nearest to Eureka), Bakersfield, Crescent City, El Centro, Mammoth Lakes, Merced, Monterey, Redding, San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, and Stockton. ===By train=== The state's various rail services provide a cheap and reasonably comfortable way to see and get around much of the state [[USA without a car|without a car]]. '''[[Amtrak]]''' operates a few long-distance routes through and out of California, as well as the three Amtrak California routes: :* San Luis Obispo-Santa Barbara-Los Angeles-Anahiem-San Diego on the ''[https://www.pacificsurfliner.com/ Pacific Surfliner]'' :* Oakland/Sacramento-Stockton-Fresno-Bakersfield on the ''[https://goldrunner.com/ Gold Runner]'' (which has a connecting Thruway bus service to Los Angeles) :* San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Auburn on the ''[https://www.capitolcorridor.org/ Capitol Corridor]'' :* Los Angeles-Santa Barbara-San Luis Obispo-San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Redding-(continues to Seattle) on the ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' :* Emeryville (San Francisco connection)-Sacramento-Truckee (near Lake Tahoe)-(continues to Chicago) on the ''California Zephyr'' :*Los Angeles-Palm Springs-(continues to Chicago) on the Sunset Limited :*''Amtrak Thruway Motorcoaches'' connects additional cities and towns to/from the Amtrak (train) network by bus such as Santa Cruz-San Jose; San Francisco-Emeryville; Bakersfield-Los Angeles; Bakersfield-Las Vegas; Martinez-Arcata; Redding-Sacramento; etc. Amtrak has seen continuously increasing ridership in most of the US for more than a decade now, and surprisingly enough three of the six most popular Amtrak routes run through California, thus making them a viable alternative to the more often than not congested roads and airports. In addition, there are several commuter and regional services in the state's metro areas: :*''[https://www.caltrain.com/ Caltrain]'' San Francisco-Palo Alto-San Jose-Gilroy through the famous Silicon Valley. :* ''[https://acerail.com/ Altamont Commuter Express]'' San Jose-Stockton through the Altamont Corridor Express. :* ''[https://www.bart.gov/ BART]'' operates in the Bay Area, connecting much of the East Bay (Oakland, Berkeley, Walnut Creek) to San Francisco and SFO. :* ''[https://metrolinktrains.com/ Metrolink]'' runs regional train service throughout the greater Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura County (metropolis) region on multiple routes. :* ''[https://gonctd.com/services/coaster-commuter-rail/ COASTER]'' runs along the coast of San Diego County between downtown San Diego, Carlsbad and Oceanside. :*''[https://gonctd.com/services/sprinter-hybrid-rail/ SPRINTER]'' runs across Northern San Diego County between Escondino and Oceanside with bus and train connections to Los Angeles and San Diego. :*''[https://www.sonomamarintrain.org/ Sonoma-Marin Rail (SMART)]'' runs between Santa Rosa and San Rafael in Marin/Sonoma County (Northern Bay Area) with ferry connections to San Francisco There are also light rail systems in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Jose. Almost all of these systems are being expanded or upgraded to cope with rising ridership, so expect more and better service in years to come. ===By bus=== {{see also|Long-distance bus travel in the United States }} The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There are fairly frequent service from [[Los Angeles#By bus|Los Angeles]] to [[San Francisco#By bus|San Francisco]]/[[San Jose_(California)#By bus|San Jose]]; [[San Diego#By_bus|San Diego]]/[[Tijuana#By_bus|Tijuana]]; [[Las Vegas#By_bus|Las Vegas]]/[[San Bernardino#By_bus|San Bernardino]] and [[Sacramento#By bus|Sacramento]] with on multiple routes with various bus companies. There are other the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns which are not listed, check the article of your destination for all the transportation options. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/california/ here]. * {{listing | name=Eastern Sierra Transit | alt= | url=https://www.estransit.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 760 872-1901 | tollfree=+1 800 922-1930 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Operates 'local' buses along US Hwy 395 corridor between Mammoth Lake, Bishop and Lone Pine in Mono and Inyo Counties in the eastern 'Desert' and the Sierra Nevada parts of the state. They have a route continuing north to Carson City & Reno from Mammoth Lake and south to Lancaster from Lone Pine. The area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway buses }} * {{listing | type=go | name=El Paso Los Angeles Limousine Express | alt= | url=https://www.eplalimo.com/ | email= | address=(downtown LA depot) 622 E 6th St | lat= | long= | directions=SW corner of E 6th St & Wall St across the street from police station | phone=+1 213 623-2323 and +1 323-265-3232 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Travels along I-10 between Los Angeles, [[Indio]], Phoenix, [[Las Cruces]] and El Paso on one route and on I-15 to Las Vegas & North Las Vegas on another route. They have additional stops in E. Los Angeles, El Monte and [[Colton]] on their way on both routes. They also have a second depot at 4425 S Atlantic Blvd in E Los Angeles. }} * {{listing | name=Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.flixbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 626-8585 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-06-14 | content=The German bus company, Flixbus, connects Los Angeles to Las Vegas, Phoenix, Sacramento, SF Bay Area and San Diego via multiple cities en route in Arizona and California. It has grown rapidly through subcontracting its operations, which has the downside for customers that the buses are not of a consistent style or quality. In October 2021 they had merged with Greyhound Lines (see below) but, maintain separate brands. Tickets and schedules with Greyhound and Flixbus can be searched and purchased through each other's websites. }} * {{listing | name=Green Tortoise | alt= | url=https://greentortoise.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 415 956-7500 | tollfree=1 800 867-8647 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates something like a 'hippie' bus that serves as a bus by day with stops to visit different places like a bus tour throughout the day and a RV camper by night in different campgrounds. It offers bus tours and camping trips to Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Death Valley Sequoia and along the coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Some of its tours involve a 3- to 5-day round trip from the point of origin such as from San Francisco to Yosemite NP and back while others are one way where the journey starts from one place and end in the other like from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree and end in Las Vegas. Even with round trips it is possible to ask to be picked up or dropped off in different places than the point of origin/return. Others like its 'Hostel Hoppers' or 'Express' are a straightforward bus ride from point A to B. It is one way to combine 'taking the bus' from one place to another and to visit and see remote places without a private automobile. }} * {{listing | name=Greyhound , Cruceros-USA, Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1 800 231-2222 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Greyhound goes to 100 locations statewide, though these are not all actual stations, some are merely stops. In general, Greyhound serves the same routes that Amtrak does along the main highways. In some cases Greyhound is cheaper, faster, and more frequent than Amtrak. Flixbus tickets can also be searched and purchased on Greyhound's website }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Hoang Express | alt= | url=https://www.xedohoang.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 714 839-3500 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=$60-65 to Bay Area; $80 to Sacramento | content=Travels between SoCal (San Diego, El Monte, Los Angeles, [[Westminster (California)|Westminster]]); Bay Area (San Francisco, San Jose & Oakland) and to Sacramento on another route from Los Angeles. They also offer service from Los Angeles to Arizona (Phoenix, [[Chandler (Arizona)|Chandler]] and [[Tempe]]. }} * {{go | name=International Bus Lines | alt=formerly Intercalifornias | url=https://www.ibuslines.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 629-4885 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination | content=Connects Tijuana, San Ysidro (just over the border), Santa Ana, Los Angeles, San Fernando, Bakersfield, Fresno, and San Jose/[[Stockton (California)|Stockton]] (route splits/joins in Madero) and several other places in between. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=LuxBus | alt= | url=https://www.luxbusamerica.com/ | email= | address=on request for hotel pick up/drop off | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-877-610-7870 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Operates to/from [[Las Vegas]], [[Anaheim]], and [[San Diego]]. }} * {{listing | name=Mendocino Transit Authority (MTA) | alt= | url=https://mendocinotransit.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Travels extensively in the North Coast region along Hwy 1 from Ft Bragg to Navarro River Junction (#65), Point Arena (#75), Bodega Bay and Santa Rosa (#95). Another route from Ft Bragg to Willits, Ukiah and Santa Rosa along SR-20 and US Hwy 101 (Rt #65). Much of the area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway Buses off the US Hwy 101 corridor. }} * {{listing | name=Sage Stage | alt= | url=https://sagestage.com/ | email= | address=(bus stops) Rite Aide @ 5th & Main in Alturas | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 530 233-6410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-18 | content=Provides public transportation from Alturas and Canby in Modoc County, in the [[Shasta Cascades]], to [[Redding]]; [[Reno]], NV; and [[Klamath Falls]], OR on three separate routes. }} * {{listing | name=Santa Barbara Airbus | alt= | url=https://www.sbairbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 805 964-7759 | tollfree=+1-800-423-1618 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-08-05 | content=Eight trips a day from [[Los Angeles International Airport|LAX]] to [[Carpinteria]], [[Santa Barbara]] and [[Goleta]]. }} * {{listing | name="Cabin" | alt=formerly Sleep Bus | url=https://www.ridecabin.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-25 | content=Overnight service to the Los Angeles area (Ocean & Arizona Ave in Palisades Park in [[Santa Monica]]) from San Francisco (Bayside Lot @ 1 Bryant St). This is an actual sleeper bus featuring twin size bunk beds with privacy curtains, power outlets, and free wifi. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Tufesa | alt= | url=https://www.gotobus.com/tufesa/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 489-8079 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination |lastedit=2022-11-30| content=Connects Los Angeles to Sacramento (via Bakersfield, Fresno, etc); to Salt Lake City (via Barstow, Las Vegas, St George, etc); to Hermosillo (via Phoenix, Tucson, Nogales); San Francisco Bay Area; and to Tijuana (via Santa Ana, San Diego/San Ysidro). }} * {{listing | name=Yarts | alt= | url=https://yarts.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates regularly scheduled buses from Yosemite NP (Visitors' Center) to Fresno, Merced, Mammoth Lakes & Sonora on four separate routes. }} ===By foot=== *The [[Pacific Crest Trail]] crosses the length of California on its way from [[Mexico]] to [[Canada]] *The [[American Discovery Trail]] connects California with [[Nevada]] and the East Coast. ===By boat=== *Ferry service is limited, but can be a scenic, relaxing, and fun way to travel. Major services exist in the [[Bay Area]], to the [[Channel Islands (California)|Channel Islands]] and to [[Catalina Island]] near Los Angeles. Several of the smaller coastal towns have water taxi services within their city. Check as the stops and limited and the schedules may seasonal. *Many cities are along the coast, or else on navigable waterways, and you can dock your own boat there. == See == [[File:Us-ca-sanfran-goldengate.jpg|thumb|Golden Gate Bridge in [[San Francisco]]]] As the most geographically and culturally diverse state in the U.S., California offers an endless amount of things to see and do; even when you think you've experienced everything in one area of the state, a short trip to another part has plenty more to offer. Incredible and unique scenery, some of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, centuries old historical sites, unending cultural and entertainment options {{snd}}no matter where your interests lie, California will almost certainly offer it. ===Natural attractions=== [[Image:16-yosemite-half-dome.jpg|thumb|Half Dome at [[Yosemite National Park]]]] From white-sand beaches to snowcapped mountains, with lush forests and arid deserts in between, no other state offers such a wide a variety of natural landscapes as California does. California hosts the largest number of [[United States national parks|U.S. national parks]] with a total of nine. The most famous of these is '''[[Yosemite National Park]]''', featuring thundering waterfalls and geological behemoths like El Capitan and Half Dome. The surrounding [[Sierra Nevada]] also hosts nearby '''[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]''' which are both home to some of the world's largest living organisms, the giant sequoia. '''[[Redwood National Park]]''' in the far northwestern corner of the state and the surrounding area feature the world's tallest species of trees, the coast redwood. Tired of forests? The California desert is the site of some of the hottest and most arid places on Earth. '''[[Death Valley National Park]]''' is the location of the highest ever recorded temperature on the planet. If deserts are not your thing, beaches and California are practically synonymous. '''[[Big Sur]]''' and '''[[Point Reyes National Seashore|Point Reyes]]''' are notable examples of a scenic, winding stretch of unspoiled coastline that is typical of Northern California, featuring rocky cliffs and towering redwood trees that meet thundering ocean waves. Further south, the water is much warmer and suitable for all-day beach trips. Here, world-class beach towns such as '''[[Santa Barbara]]''', '''[[Malibu]]''', and those of '''[[Beach Cities|Orange County]]''' offer opportunities to catch waves, practice beach volleyball, or simply lounge around and tan underneath palm trees. If high-altitude adventure is what you are seeking, California has that too. At an elevation of 14,505 feet (4,421 meters) above sea level, '''[[Mount Whitney]]''' is the highest mountain in the lower 48 states. Snow activities such as skiing and snowboarding are plentiful in '''[[Lake Tahoe]]''' in the winter, while hiking and water recreation such as boating are popular in summer. [[File:Silver Lake.jpg|thumb|Silver Lake is in the [[Sierra Nevada|Sierra Nevada Range]] of eastern California]] While the national parks may receive most of the attention, California has the largest [[California state parks|state park system]] in the United States. These protected areas are found in places ranging from being adjacent to national parks to green landscapes in the middle of cities that offer a respite from the hectic urban rush. California's high population and its climate have also led to the creation of numerous [[Reservoirs in California|reservoirs]]. California marine animals (native and migrating) are easily found in the wild along the state's beaches, in lagoons and estuaries, such as sea otters, grey whales, elephant seals, harbor seals, sea lions as well as multitudes of tide pools dwellers including crabs, sea stars, anemone, and sea urchins. Timing is key: go at low tide to see lots of marine life. ===Monuments and architecture=== California has long been a canvas for architects and engineers to design and build some pioneering structures or to popularize styles that would define a time period. With two of the most prominent cities in the United States, [[Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco]], this is certainly notable with many of the structures and buildings that are found there. San Francisco is home to engineering marvels such as the '''Golden Gate Bridge''', Lombard Street (the most crooked street in the world), and cable cars that seemingly glide up and down the hills between the waterfront and rest of downtown. The many skyscrapers such as the Transamerica Pyramid have all been specifically designed to withstand powerful earthquakes. The stately '''Palace of Fine Arts''' and charming Painted Ladies of Alamo Square have served as backdrops countless of times for the city by the Bay. As the epicenter of the global entertainment industry, the '''Hollywood Sign''' is an icon of Los Angeles recognized worldwide. The nearby Hollywood Walk of Fame, Capitol Records Building, and numerous theaters all solidify the city's hold on entertainment. The Griffith Observatory and Walt Disney Concert Hall are also notable features in the cityscape, as is the imposing '''Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum''', the site of the 1932 and 1984 Summer Olympics. Other notable landmarks outside these two cities include the '''California State Capitol''' in [[Sacramento]] (modeled after the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.), labyrinthine '''Winchester Mystery House''' in [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]] with eerie origins, and the lavish '''Hearst Castle''' in the Central Coast town of [[San Simeon]] that anchors the landscape of the surrounding area. ===Historical sites=== From former Native American sites to suburban garages where modern technology was invented, California's centuries-long history is preserved in numerous historical sites and museums that are scattered throughout the state. One of the most comprehensive collections of state history from prehistory to contemporary times is housed in the '''Oakland Museum of California''' in [[Oakland]], with a vast collection of nearly 2 million items related to California history, art, and science. The legacy of Spanish colonial times remains with the string of '''twenty-one missions''' that span the length of much of the state from '''Mission San Diego de Alcalá ''' in the San Diego's [[San Diego/Old Town-Mission Valley|Old Town]] (founded in 1769) up to '''Mission San Francisco Solano''' in the Bay Area town of [[Sonoma]] (founded in 1823). Perhaps the most beautiful of these though, is '''Mission Santa Barbara''', which lent its name to [[Santa Barbara|the same city]] and is rightfully referred to as the "Queen of the Missions". '''El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument''' in downtown [[Los Angeles]] is another historical feature from the Spanish era, although the neighborhood underwent a major transformation during the period of Mexican rule (1821 to 1848) that now gives the area a distinct Mexican atmosphere, particularly along Olvera Street. Spain was not the only European power that colonized California, however. '''[[Fort Ross]]''' in the northern edge of the Bay Area was the southernmost Russian outpost in North America and was in operation from 1812 to 1841. Gold Rush legacies live on in [[Gold Country]], located in the northeastern part of the state. Following the discovery of gold at '''Sutter's Mill''' in [[Coloma (California)|Coloma]] in 1848, hundreds of thousands of fortune seekers from around the world made their way to California, establishing dozens of towns, most of which still retain their Old West charm and atmosphere. '''Old Sacramento''' in the [[Sacramento|state's capital city]] also sprung up as the commercial and transportation center of this era, with places of interest including the first terminus of the '''First Transcontinental Railroad''' and related California Railroad Museum. '''Cannery Row''' and much of the rest of [[Monterey (California)|Monterey]] provide a glimpse of the state's once lucrative fishing and canning industry during the first half of the 20th century, with carefully preserved wooden buildings that housed factory workers and engines, along with rustic (and still active) piers. ===Motion picture sets=== Countless [[fiction tourism|films and television series]] have been set in California. Much of the production is made within the 30-mile (50-km) studio zone around Los Angeles, but sceneries across the whole state are famous from the movies. Some franchises with their own itineraries are ''[[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]]'', ''[[Easy Rider]]'', ''[[Fast and Furious tourism|Fast and Furious]]'', ''[[Forrest Gump tour|Forrest Gump]]'', ''[[Kill Bill tourism|Kill Bill]]'' and ''[[Terminator tourism|The Terminator]]''. ===Itineraries=== *[[El Camino Real]] (The Royal Road) &mdash; a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of Alta California (modern day state of California) offering a fascinating look into California's history. [[U.S. Highway 101]] is also part of this El Camino Highway. *[[Pacific Coast Highway]] &mdash; tour up and down the iconic California coast, along [[Big Sur]], all the way up to its end where it merges into the US 101, which goes up to Washington state. * [[U.S. Highway 395]], [[Interstate 5#California|Interstate 5 & CA-99]], [[Interstate 10]], [[Interstate 80]], and the [[Lincoln Highway]] are major highways through California with their own Wikivoyage article. ==Do== [[File:Hollywood sign 053004.jpg|thumb|[[Hollywood]]]] * '''Ski''' at one of the great resorts near [[Lake Tahoe]] or [[Big Bear Lake|Big Bear]]. * Try your hand at '''surfing''' or work on your tan in [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]] or [[Santa Monica]]. * The long coastline offers some great [[Scuba diving in California|California scuba diving]]. * Go '''winetasting''' at one of the countless vineyards dotting [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. * Climb a mountain and camp in the [[Sierra Nevada]] or [[Shasta Cascades]]. * See California's amazing wildflowers. From March through May, the [https://theodorepayne.org/ California Wildflower Hotline] at +1 818 768-3533 offers the latest information on the best places to view wildflowers throughout Southern and Central California. The hotline and website are updated every Thursday evening. More than 90 wildflower sites are included. The hotline, founded in 1983, is run by the Theodore Payne Foundation for Wild Flowers and Native Plants. * Listen to music at the '''[http://www.northerncaliforniabluesfest.com Northern California Blues Festival]{{Dead link|date=October 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. The fastest growing festival of its kind comes in June to Sacramento County around Father's day each year and usually features a spectacular line-up of Blues artists. Event benefits Through the Mind, a non-profit providing free alternative mental health to America's Veterans. * Visit one of the many '''theme parks''', such as [[Disneyland]] or [[Six Flags Magic Mountain]]. ==Buy== {{see also|Shopping in the United States}} Usually US dollars and common credit or debit cards are the only accepted modes of payment. Many stores can take contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. You might have some luck with Mexican pesos near the immediate border area, but the exchange rates are usually terrible. California stores no longer give out free plastic bags, except for fresh grocery produce and meats. Reusable plastic bags cost a minimum of ten cents (by state law). Many stores sell cloth bags for one or two dollars. The state sales tax is 7.25%. However, counties and cities are allowed to levy their own sales taxes on top. In most areas you visit, the actual sales tax will be around 8% or 9%. In certain parts of the counties of Alameda and Los Angeles, actual sales tax is over 10%. In California, sales tax is levied on sales of nearly all tangible personal property. The main exceptions are regular groceries (including cold food-to-go) and prescription drugs. Hot prepared food is also usually taxed, with the exception of hot baked goods sold to go as standalone items. The state does not refund sales tax to travelers. The quintessential California souvenir depends a lot on which part of the state you visited, and what your interests are. The agricultural products change from citrus and avocadoes down south to strawberries in the middle, to almonds and wine as you move north. In LA, you might take home chocolates from See's Candies; in the Central Coast, keep an eye open for locally produced saltwater taffy; in the Bay Area, it's all about Ghirardelli Chocolate. Common themes for souvenir items include surfing, tie-dyed clothing, and redwood trees. ==Eat== {{See also|American cuisine|Fast food in the United States and Canada}} California doesn't have a single, well-defined cuisine of its own, but rather has a remarkably diverse food scene defined by its large population of immigrants of varied ethnic backgrounds and its access to one of the most productive agricultural regions on this side of the planet. The culinary style referred to as ''Californian cuisine'' or ''California fusion'' focuses on imaginative fusions of other cuisines, typically with heavy attention to presentation and an emphasis on using freshly prepared local ingredients, and has been somewhat subsumed into the general trend of "New American" cuisine. Even diners and small mom-and-pop fast food grills have elements of fusion cuisine, as it is common in California for them to serve both burgers and Mexican food. Californians take fresh food for granted. Most food you will eat in California was harvested within 300 miles (480 km) of your plate, with the exception of certain cereals and tropical crops. California is the leading global source of tree nuts (almonds, pistachios, walnuts) and also leads North America in the production of dairy products and many kinds of fruits and vegetables. Out-of-season crops are usually imported from South America, especially Chile and Brazil. With such a bounty for restaurants to draw upon, almost any dish you can imagine can be found somewhere in California. The cuisines of the Americas and Asia are heavily represented, and those of nearly every other country are also available to a lesser extent. More "North American" fare includes everything from burger shacks to vegetarian, organic and even completely vegan restaurants; the Californian love for food has made it one of the most diverse restaurant scenes in North America. The large cities have the most variety, while things get simpler and more meat-heavy as you get more rural. There are a handful of distinctive California dishes, although most of them have been adopted and adapted throughout the US. * Cobb salad – a cold salad of bacon or ham, chicken, boiled eggs, avocado, tomato, lettuce, and bleu cheese, with a vinaigrette dressing. Traditionally it's chopped fairly fine, but in modern times it's served in a variety of ways, and sometimes with ranch dressing instead of the traditional vinaigrette. It was invented at the Brown Derby restaurant in LA. * French dip sandwich – invented somewhere in LA, the exact location is subject to dispute, but it's a warm sandwich of thinly sliced roast beef on a roll that's dipped into beef broth. * Cioppino – a seafood stew developed by Italian immigrants in San Francisco, it resembles various Italian fish stews but includes local ingredients like chopped Dungeness crab. * The Mission Burrito – a San Francisco tradition characterized mainly by its great size and caloric content, featuring copious amounts of beans and rice in addition to cheese, meat and/or vegetables. * California Burrito – a San Diego specialty, it's a carne asada (spicy grilled steak) burrito, stuffed with french fries. * Santa Maria Barbeque – This is a central coast tradition. It's a bottom sirloin beef roast (the cut is locally known as tri-tip), where the fat hasn't been trimmed. It's suspended high above a hot oak fire, fat side up, so it cooks slowly and the fat melts and tenderizes the meat. It's usually served thinly sliced with tortillas or bread, salsa, onions, avocado, and other side dishes. *Chop Suey – the original "American Chinese" dish was popularized as cheap food for laborers during the California gold rush. While it's increasingly hard to find, many other American Chinese dishes were first created in San Francisco's Chinatown. Larger cities in California have some restaurants selling American Chinese food and others selling traditional Chinese dishes. In smaller cities, the Americanized version may be the only option on the menu. As a general rule, plain water is free at any restaurant. However, if you need a disposable cup, the cup will cost you 25 cents (by state law). You are allowed to bring your own reusable water cup or bottle. ===Regional chains=== California's classic burger chain '''In-N-Out''' has expanded to states as far east as [[Texas]]—see [[Fast food in the United States and Canada]] for more. Outside of fast food, California chains that you'll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere include: * {{eat | name=Ike's | alt= | url=https://www.ikessandwich.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-06-22 | content=Casual sandwich joint with more than 50 locations, mostly in California though a few are in Nevada. The menu varies by location, but in general about half the menu has meat and half is vegetarian; many vegetarian options can be made vegan. The sandwiches are filling and flavorful but not excessively heavy. }} *{{listing | name=Farmer Boys | alt= | url=https://www.farmerboys.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5435711 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=A farm-to-table restaurant chain featuring a burger shack menu that is freshly cooked from local produce. Hamburgers, sandwiches, and salads, plus diner-style breakfast options served all day. }} *{{listing | name=Lemonade | alt= | url=https://lemonadela.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=locations are mostly in Southern California, plus two in San Francisco | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$15 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=Poke bowls, chef bowls, sandwiches, and 10 different types of freshly made lemonade. This is California fusion food without the high-end budget. Take your friend who's always bored with the same-ol' stuff. Don't neglect the side dishes. Vegan options. }} ==Drink== Generally, alcohol is available in more places in California than it is in other states. A person with valid ID of age can purchase alcohol at supermarkets or liquor stores; these are regulated by the state but not owned or controlled by them. All but the smallest communities have restaurants or bars that sell beer. Some places are permitted to have a bar in one part of their establishment, and six-packs of beer for sale and offsite consumption in another part. California is known for its fine [[wine]]s and gourmet beers. As of March 2026, there are 154 established American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) across the state of California, which is the highest number of any state. [[Napa Valley|Napa]], [[Sonoma Valley|Sonoma]] and [[Mendocino County|Mendocino]] are premier wine districts north of San Francisco, but there are others in the Central Coast region ([[Paso Robles]], [[Solvang]]) and even down near [[Temecula]] where suitable microclimates have been found. The inland Central Valley region (especially near [[Lodi (California)|Lodi]]) has hotter summers and traditionally produced inexpensive bulk wines, but quality has been improving with winemaking innovations. For beer, California also has a lot of microbreweries. Sierra Nevada, in [[Chico (California)|Chico]], is one of the biggest microbreweries in North America. In the [[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] the mid-sized brewery Firestone Walker in Paso Robles is a good addition to the local wineries in the area; [[Ventura]] has had several microbreweries over the years. In [[San Diego]], Stone Brewing Company offers a great variety of beers that can be purchased throughout the state. Los Angeles has several microbreweries, especially in the Arts District. There are over 200 microbreweries in California, and many bars in large- and mid-size cities that have 20 or more beers (often both foreign and domestic and ranging from light beer to flavored stouts) on tap. In addition to microbreweries, there are a handful of distilleries in California; one even makes date vodka. === Legal issues === Californians tend to view wine as a natural accompaniment of food or socializing, overlooking its alcoholic content more easily than with distilled spirits. However police crackdowns on drinking and driving are noticeable, with roadblocks and random checks. Conviction for driving with a blood alcohol level over .08 percent is likely to bring serious legal and financial consequences. Drivers with a lower blood alcohol can still be convicted for '''DUI''' (driving under the influence) if they fail field sobriety tests, such as walking a straight line. You must be 21 years of age to buy or drink any alcoholic beverage. Underage drinking is taken very seriously, so if you want a drink and appear to be under 30, you should be ready to present identification showing your age. The only acceptable proof-of-age documents are [[passports]] from any country, and identity documents issued by US government agencies (e.g., drivers' licenses issued by any US state). Foreign drivers' licenses and foreign identity cards are ''not'' legally acceptable as proof-of-age documentation, and people who are unable to produce a passport or valid United States ID will be refused service. Only original identity documents will be accepted; photographs or photocopies will not be accepted. ==Stay healthy== ===Air pollution=== While [[air pollution]] levels have dropped dramatically since the 1970s, more than ninety percent of Californians live in counties with unhealthy air. Visitors to the mountains or the rural regions of Northern California will have nothing to worry about, but the overreliance on cars, low rainfall, and surrounding mountains in Los Angeles, the Central Valley, and the Bay Area create some of America's worst air quality. It gets particularly bad when a layer of cold air gets "trapped" by a layer of warmer air above it ("inversion") which is particularly likely in basins. While air quality is rarely at levels that would be considered immediately dangerous, visitors should heed alerts and be especially cautious when any local wildfires are burning. Occasionally, there will be an '''advisory''' issued for air stagnation, which is a phenomenon involving an air mass that cannot move and therefore stagnates over an area for an extensive period of time. Air pollutants can cause breathing difficulties for those with existing respiratory conditions. If you have a respiratory condition, refer to the '''[https://airquality.weather.gov/ National Weather Service]''' website on air quality to see if any such advisories have been issued for the areas you might visit. ===Disease=== [[File:MOUSE, CALIFORNIA (peromyscus californicus) (5-29-09) cerro alto campground road, slo co, ca -01 (3577515146).jpg|alt=California deermouse|thumb|This cute, large-eared mouse and its tan-colored siblings can carry a deadly virus.]] Deer mice can transmit a virus that causes '''hantaviral pulmonary syndrome'''. You are most likely to get infected if you breathe in dust containing their excrement (feces, urine, and saliva). Realistically, however, hantavirus is of very little concern to the traveler, as only a few people get infected each year, and most of them are exposed on the job, but sensible precautions should be applied. Do '''not''' venture in any wild animal's den or touch deer mice or their excrement. If you need to clean up after rodents, wear waterproof gloves, eye protection, and a high-quality respirator mask, and use disinfectants and wet-mopping techniques, rather than brooms and vacuums (both of which spread virus-laden dust). If you do get infected, treatment usually involves a week or two in the hospital. The main defense against the virus is prevention. ==Stay safe== [[File:Elephant seals fighting.jpg|thumb|Elephant seals fighting, [[San Simeon]]]] ===California–Mexico border=== Due to California's proximity to the international boundary with Mexico, visitors should be cautious while in areas near the border. * Beware Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) checkpoints and patrols. CBP is legally allowed to stop you or your vehicle solely in order to inquire about your citizenship and residency status within 100 miles (160 km) of any international border (in this instance, the US–Mexico border). ''Non-whites, and especially Latinos, should expect to be profiled, targeted, and harassed by these government agents.'' *Know where you are at all times. Follow good safety procedures and use common sense when making decisions. * Do not pick up [[Hitchhiking|hitchhikers]]. If the person is undocumented or carrying drugs, you could be mistaken for a trafficker. * Keep valuables, including spare change, out of sight and lock your vehicle. * Avoid traveling in well-marked but unofficial "trails." * Avoid hiking or camping in areas of major border activity. If you are visiting a national or state park, consult park staff to help plan backcountry travel in safer areas. ====Crossing the border==== Thousands of U.S citizens visit the state of [[Baja California (state)|Baja California, Mexico]] from California every year, with the majority of travelers returning from an enjoyable experience. However, a minority of travelers do experience difficulties and serious inconveniences while traveling to Mexico. Before traveling to Mexico, ensure that you have the proper documentation and are familiar with the recommendations for foreign travel from the '''[https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Mexico.html U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs]''' There are six border crossings between California and Mexico: two between San Diego and [[Tijuana]], one between [[Tecate]] and Tecate, two between [[Calexico]] and [[Mexicali]], and one between Andrade and [[Los Algodones]]. The United States operates a consulate-general in Tijuana and a consulate in Mexicali. Mexico operates Consulates in Calexico, Fresno, Los Angeles, Oxnard, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose and Santa Ana. ===Crime=== The usual inner city crime can be found in the worst parts of [[Los Angeles]], [[San Francisco]], and [[Oakland]]. Central Valley cities, such as [[Sacramento]], [[Stockton (California)|Stockton]], and [[Fresno]] also have gang problems. Northern coastal cities such as [[Eureka]] have an ongoing problem with significant drug activity and property crimes. However, most California cities are safe. As long as you take basic precautions against petty crime, such as keeping your phone and other valuables out of sight in tourist areas, and stay out of obviously run-down neighborhoods, you will probably have a safe and pleasant visit. If you are traveling along the '''Pacific Coast Highway''' or '''Highway 101''', you may notice there are a substantial number of hitch-hikers along the way. Most are harmless youthful travelers or people who just need to get somewhere for lack of other means, while others may be a bit less safe to pick up. Use your best judgement, and, unless you feel confident in the people to whom you're giving a ride, it's probably better not to offer one while you're travelling alone. '''Drugs''' are illegal in California, with the noted exception of '''[[cannabis|marijuana]]'''. Adults 21 and over are allowed to possess, use, and cultivate small amounts of marijuana, so long as it is not consumed in public or possessed on the grounds of a school or day care center. The maximum amount a person may possess is one ounce of marijuana or 8 grams of concentrates. Some dispensaries sell marijuana products to the general public, although others remain restricted to those who have a medical marijuana recommendation from a doctor. Delivery services are also available. Marijuana is still illegal under federal law, so do not carry marijuana across state lines—even to another state where it is legal—as this will be considered drug trafficking and subject to harsh punishment. Also, do not take marijuana onto federal land, including any of the dozens of national parks and national forests in California, or onto flights even within California, as the TSA is a federal agency. If you find yourself in an emergency situation (of any kind), dial '''9-1-1''' on your phone or from any (available) phone. It is a free call from a payphone. ===Earthquakes=== {{Infobox|Earthquake early warnings|Since 2019, California has rolled out an earthquake early warning system called [https://www.shakealert.org/ '''ShakeAlert'''], whose alerts can be received by most smartphones. There are [https://earthquake.ca.gov/get-alerts/ '''various methods'''] that mobile devices can receive alerts for ''imminent'' shaking: * '''Wireless Emergency Alerts''' (WEAs) are sent to capable mobile devices with cellular reception that have ''not'' opted out from receiving emergency alerts. They will appear as an urgent notification with brief instructions to safety coupled with an attention-grabbing sound. * '''Earthquake early warning mobile apps''' can push live notifications to devices when the warning system detects an occurring quake. Such apps typically require enabling '''active location services''' to determine if the device is located inside the area of possible impact. The United States Geological Survey provides [https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/how-do-i-sign-shakealertr-earthquake-early-warning-system '''information about apps for iOS and Android that utilize the ShakeAlert system.'''] * '''Many newer Android devices''' can receive earthquake alerts natively without needing to download an app. This system also requires '''enabling location services''' to determine if it's located in the impacted zone. These alerts will appear either as a notification bar for weak quakes or a full-screen alert for strong quakes with instructions to '''drop, cover, and hold'''. Wireless Emergency Alerts are sent for earthquake events exceeding magnitude 5.0 ''and'' in areas expected to receive shaking intensity of light (Mercalli intensity IV) or greater. For Android alerts, expect to receive them for events exceeding magnitude 4.5 ''and'' in areas where weak shaking (Mercalli intensity III) or stronger is expected. Mobile apps may provide options to customize the threshold of intensity to receive an alert. Warning times are limited to '''seconds''' before the arrival of shaking, and will vary depending on the distance from the epicenter. If you are located at or near the epicenter, you may receive an alert ''during or after'' shaking arrives! Warning times tend to improve the further you are from the epicenter – up to tens of seconds of warning even at a far distance.}} [[Earthquakes]] that are large enough to cause extensive damage are rare, but remain a matter of reality for the state. Most earthquakes are mild and last for a couple of seconds. You're not likely to encounter one during your trip, but if you do, you'll probably go home with nothing more exciting than a story about it being over before you figured out that it was an earthquake. When you feel the shaking, act quickly to '''drop, cover, and hold on'''. The biggest dangers in an earthquake are falling objects (such as books or bottles flying off shelves – or the whole shelf with all of its contents, if it's not properly mounted) and windows, which may shatter explosively. In the event of an earthquake, '''face away from windows''' and '''hide under any sturdy table or desk''' – and then hold on to that table, because the shaking could cause the table to slide across the floor. Contrary to popular belief, do not stand in a door frame; these are structurally weaker spots in modern buildings, and they provide no protection against falling objects. If you are indoors, '''do not run outside!''' Falling building facades are more likely to cause severe injuries than anything inside. If outdoors, stay away from buildings (especially brick chimneys, which may spray bricks around a large area), and stay out from under power lines. If you are driving, your first thought will probably be that something is wrong with your car. Immediately slow down and then stop at the nearest safe place. When the shaking is over (the ground ''and'' your nerves), it's okay to start driving again, but drive cautiously, as traffic signals will likely be out, the road surface may be cracked, other drivers may be panicking, and there may be trees or damaged vehicles blocking the road ahead. ===Deserts=== Along the southern most border of California-Nevada, as well as the border of California-Arizona, California has elaborate desert landscapes which extend into the south central regions of the state, the most famous (or infamous) being the region known as [[Death Valley]], where several tourists and hikers have indeed met their fate while exploring the region. If you are planning on traveling or hiking into these locations, '''follow desert survival guidelines'''. Be sure to take plenty of water (at least one gallon/four litres per person, per day), sunscreen and wear light clothing. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Be sure to have a full tank of gasoline prior to traveling by car into these regions, as many desert locations are extremely remote and without any services for several miles (in some cases nearly 100 miles / 160 km). To break down in these regions could be extremely unpleasant in the best case scenario, tragic in the worst. Also, it is best to hike during the earlier part of the day, as thunderstorms tend to develop suddenly during the afternoon. In the event you encounter inclement weather conditions, seek high ground immediately! Thunderstorms can cause flash flooding in canyons and other low-lying areas. ===Tsunamis=== The incidence of earthquakes in California raises the concern for potential threats of tsunamis. Though tsunamis occur very rarely, a great deal of California's coastline is in a tsunami zone. For more information on the state's hazard assessment, visit the '''[https://nctr.pmel.noaa.gov/state/wa/index.html NOAA Center for Tsunami Research]''' website. ===Wildfires=== [[Wildfires]] are common between May and October, but can also occur at other times. Precautions include the following: clear the area around campfires in campgrounds, never leave flames unattended (even artificial ones), do not throw cigarette ends out of a car, and avoid unnecessary weapon use in dry areas.<!-- My understanding of laws in California is that the latter is illegal anyway. --> The strongest impact from fires is smoke. Smoke affects areas dramatically exceeding the size of the root fire. Travelers with respiratory issues should consult visitor information sites before visiting areas where fires are occurring, or anywhere in the path of the smoke, which can spread across large portions of the state during the worst wildfires. ===Mudslides=== Fire season is followed by the rainy season, and hilly areas where the vegetation has burned are particularly vulnerable to destructive and sometimes deadly mudslides. Heed any evacuation warnings that are issued. ===Wild animals=== '''[[Bears]]''' are found in the Sierra Nevada and all neighboring parts of the state. They're rarely dangerous, but should never be approached. If you are camping, you need to ensure that food, food waste, and other scented items such as soap and toothpaste are secure from them. '''[[Mountain lions]]''' are rarely seen, but live in all mountainous parts of the state and once in a while attack humans. If you see one, yell and wave your arms to make yourself appear as large as possible. '''Coyotes''' are quite common, even in relatively populated areas like the Hollywood Hills. They pose little danger to humans, but will attack dogs, cats and other domestic animals. Many animals, most notoriously bats, can carry rabies. When hiking, watch for [[ticks]], which can carry Lyme disease, and [[rattlesnakes]]. California is home to 2 potentially deadly species of spiders - the black widow and the brown recluse - if you don't go poking around abandoned structures and woodpiles, you're very unlikely to encounter them. If you're bitten by any animal, seek immediate medical attention. Shark attacks have happened once in a great while at California beaches, and deadly sharks such as great whites do roam the California coast, but unless a shark has been repeatedly sighted by a specific beach (the local media will broadcast warnings) this is an extremely remote possibility. ===Poisonous plants and mushrooms=== '''[[Poison oak]]''' can be found almost anywhere in the state, but is particularly common in Southern California, the Central Coast, the Bay Area, and any Coast Redwood woodlands. It's toxic throughout the year, even during the winter when it's lost its leaves. Sensitivity varies by individual, but many people can end up with a very nasty, blistering rash by contacting it. See the linked article for treatment options. California is also home to several '''lethal''' varieties of '''mushrooms''', which can be particularly dangerous to would-be gatherers because some of them resemble edible varieties found elsewhere in the world. Even if you're an expert on mushroom varieties where you live, don't assume you're safe gathering them in California. The poisonous oleander plant is native to California, and the ''Ricinus'' aka castor bean plant, which is the source of ricin and castor oil, is common there. ==Respect== California is filled with a very diverse group of people. Northern and Southern California have notably different cultures, while the rural areas in the Central Valley and Eastern portions of the state differ even more significantly. Sensitive topics include immigration, water rights, and land-use. Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area are especially well known for being some of the most politically liberal areas in the US, and continue to serve as some of the world's major centers of counterculture. Conversely, parts of California, particularly the Central Valley and most areas north of Sacramento, are conservative. However, don't assume any individual's political leaning based on where they live. * California's delicate ecosystem demands our utmost care. Conserving water, adhering to fire safety guidelines, and respecting wildlife habitats are fundamental. * Staying informed about the state's water crisis and adopting water-saving habits is crucial for preserving this precious resource. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== Many countries have consulates in and around [[Los Angeles#Consulates|Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco#Consulates|San Francisco]], with a much smaller number in [[San Bernardino#Consulates|San Bernardino]], [[San Diego#Consulates|San Diego]], and [[Sacramento#Consulates|Sacramento]]. In addition to the above, Mexico has consulates in Calexico, Oxnard, San Jose, Santa Ana, and Fresno. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are only available in the country's language. Some websites are available only in another language. ==See also== The following are additional Wikivoyage articles regarding the history and itineraries for travel within California. The articles also list places of historical or natural significance along the way: {{See also|North America itineraries}} * '''[[El Camino Real]]''' (''The Royal Road'') is a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of California. Stretching over 600 miles (1000 km) from San Diego in the south to Sonoma in the north, the route traverses much of the state and has been a popular traveler itinerary for California motorists for nearly a century. :* The '''[[Pacific Coast Highway]]''' is officially California State Route 1 (CA-1) is one of California's slower state routes, closely following the coastline, which in many places is dominated by cliffs and mountains. The alternatives, including '''[[U.S._Highway_101#California|US-101]]''' and '''[[Interstate 5#California|Interstate 5]]''' (with CA-1 sometimes concurrent with US-101), are for those who want to travel more quickly, while CA-1 is the best route for sightseeing California's beautiful coast. El Camino Real lines is best accessed from US Highway 101 and the Pacific Highway (CA-1) between San Diego and Sonoma. * '''[[Arroyo del Valle Trail]]''' is south of the city of Livermore, which is in the Bay Area region of California. The Arroyo Del Valle trail is part of a longer trail network that extends from Livermore, California, through the Diablo Range to Fremont, California at Mission Peak Regional Park. It's about 30 mi (48 km) in all and later parts of the trail network are quite remote, but the part described in this article is used by the general public more frequently than the rest of the hike due to its proximity to the cities of the Tri-Valley. * '''[[East Shore Trail]]''' goes from the northern staging area to the southeast staging area at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore, California. It is approximately 7 miles (11 km) long, with optional extensions at each end. * The '''[[Fiction tourism|Fictional tourism article]]''' aims at locations around the world famous from literature, motion pictures, television series, video games, comic books and other media. Numerous movies and television shows, such as [[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]], [[Terminator tourism|Terminator]], [[Cocoa Beach#Lori Wilson Park|I Dream of Jeannie]], [[Studio City#Brady Residence|Brady Bunch]], etc. have been filmed in Southern California which also served as a backdrop for many of these same films. [[Universal Studios Hollywood|Universal Studios]] even have a theme park to allow the public to get an up close tour of their production studios. * The '''[[Iron Horse Regional Trail]]''' is a biking and walking trail in the East Bay. Formerly a railroad for transporting fruit and grain, it's now a 32-mile (51-kilometer) paved "rail trail" through Concord, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Danville, San Ramon, Dublin, and Pleasanton. * The '''[[Ohlone Wilderness Trail]]''' is a hiking route in the East Bay. It goes from Livermore to Fremont in California across numerous mountain ranges and canyons, and is by no means an easy hike. * California has several dozen state parks that focus on historic locations. The '''[[Olompali–Petaluma–Sonoma historic parks]]''' just north of the San Francisco Bay have significant connections to the rancho era of Mexican Republic. This itinerary will take you through these three state historic parks in a day trip from the Bay area. Each is near a different city in California Wine Country. * The '''[[San Francisco Crosstown Trail]]''' crosses [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco]] from its northwestern edge at Lands End to its southeastern corner at Candlestick Point. Designed by a group of local volunteers, the route connects various hiking paths in local parks with sidewalks and staircases in residential neighborhoods to create a continuous 17-mile (27-km) trail. See also the [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco article]] for a list of in-city itineraries. ==Go next== * '''[[Arizona]]''' – Home to the [[Grand Canyon]], Arizona borders California to the southeast across the Colorado River. * '''[[Nevada]]''' – California's eastern neighbor is best known as the home of [[Las Vegas]], although towns such as [[Reno]] and [[Carson City]] are also good day-trip opportunities for visitors wanting to explore the Silver State. * '''[[Oregon]]''' – Sharing a border to the north, Oregon is home to impressive mountains and extensive forests. * '''[[Hawaii]]''' – Many visitors to America's fiftieth state depart through California on their journey across the Pacific, but it is not a neighboring state and requires a 5-hour flight to get there. * '''[[Baja California]]''' – Those traveling across the border to [[Mexico]] can visit some of that country's most impressive sea and landscapes. [[Tijuana]], [[Ensenada]] and [[Mexicali]] are also good day-trip options for visitors staying in Southern California to explore another country without going to far. {{usableregion}} {{isPartOf|United States}} {{geo|37|-119.5|zoom=6}} {{related|Off-road_vehicles_in_California}} {{related|California_desert_camping}} 4a8gyes5v2alolwabmfegeh6ltyq5hd 5288919 5288917 2026-06-06T17:23:45Z Anyone150 1516949 /* Major highways */ 5288919 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Antelope Valley banner.jpg|caption=California Poppy Preserve in the Antelope Valley}} One of the most diverse states in the [[United States of America|Union]], '''California''' has a culture ranging from the easygoing surf spots on the beaches of [[Southern California]] to the glamor of [[Hollywood]], and the counterculture and thriving businesses of the [[Bay Area]]. The state, which is on the [[West Coast (United States)|west coast of the U.S.]], also varies greatly in natural beauty, from redwood forests on the [[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] to the ski resorts of the rugged [[Sierra Nevada]] mountains and the harsh desert of [[Death Valley]]. The largest state in the U.S. by population and the third largest by area, California boasts world-famous attractions and sights: [[Disneyland]], the [[Golden Gate Bridge]], the [[Napa Valley]] wine country, and the tallest mountain in the [[United States of America#Geography|contiguous United States]], [[Mount Whitney]]. Granted statehood in 1850 following the California Gold Rush, it bears the nickname "the '''Golden State'''", and the sites of the former goldfields are known as the [[Gold Country]]. ==Regions== California is geographically varied, ranging from warm beaches to snowy mountains to fertile farmland to extreme desert. In the middle of the state is the farmland of the Central Valley, which provides produce to the whole country. The conventional wisdom is that there is a huge difference—and also rivalry—between the Southern California area around Los Angeles (or as Californians often say, “LA”) and Northern California centered around the San Francisco Bay Area. There is also a cultural clash between the large liberal coastal cities, and more conservative parts of the state such as Orange County, the Central Valley, and the far northeast part of the state. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Ca-regions.png | regionmapsize=480px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] | region1color=#b2b24d | region1description=Home to the world's tallest trees, the coast redwoods, as well as rugged coastlines and remote nature adventures. | region2name=[[Shasta Cascades]] | region2color=#c375a0 | region2description=Lakes and mountains off the beaten path in the state's northeast corner. | region3name=[[Sacramento Valley]] | region3color=#5bc7c0 | region3description=Home of [[Sacramento]], the state capital, and the urban areas around the city. | region4name=[[Gold Country]] | region4color=#d2d20d | region4description=Historic foothills leading east to the Sierras; the 1848 discovery of gold in this region brought many Americans to California and helped California become a state less than five years after the territory had been acquired. | region5name=[[Sierra Nevada]] | region5color=#5ea54a | region5description=California's alpine and skiing region, including [[Yosemite National Park]] and [[Lake Tahoe]]. | region6name=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]] | region6color=#d06666 | region6description=Home to the cities of [[San Francisco]], [[Oakland]], and [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]], as well as the technology-centered [[Silicon Valley]] and sophisticated [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. | region7name=[[San Joaquin Valley]] | region7color=#a0a0c0 | region7description=Breadbasket of California and home to a large percentage of America's fruit and vegetable supply. | region8name=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] | region8color=#5fb388 | region8description=An isolated stretch of land that features cool mountains and a rugged coastline. | region9name=[[Southern California]] | region9color=#ac663d | region9description=Home to the metropolis of [[Los Angeles]], as well as [[San Diego]], [[Disneyland]], [[Hollywood]], and miles of famous beaches. | region10name=[[Desert (California)|Desert]] | region10color=#d5a90b | region10description=Palm trees, Joshua trees, blazing sun, ghost towns and quirky resorts. Miles of [[Route 66]]. Home of [[Death Valley National Park|Death Valley]] and [[Joshua Tree National Park]]s. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b2b24d|title=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]]|wikidata=Q156186,Q109651,Q108087,Q156361}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c375a0|title=[[Shasta Cascades]]|wikidata=Q156374,Q156188,Q156350,Q109695,Q156340,Q109705,Q156342,Q156181}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5bc7c0|title=[[Sacramento Valley]]|wikidata=Q271601,Q271609,Q156377,Q196014,Q109709,Q108131}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d2d20d|title=[[Gold Country]]|wikidata=Q156370,Q109681,Q156353,Q156177,Q108093,Q271613,Q156346,Q156191}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5ea54a|title=[[Sierra Nevada]]|wikidata=Q108077,Q156366}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d06666|title=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]]|wikidata=Q108117,Q108067,Q108137,Q108083,Q108058,Q107146,Q62,Q108101,Q108122,Q110739}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a0a0c0|title=[[San Joaquin Valley]]|wikidata=Q108499,Q108503,Q109690,Q109661,Q271915,Q156358,Q109686,Q108047}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5fb388|title=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]]|wikidata=Q108072,Q109656,Q49014,Q108106,Q108127}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#ac663d|title=[[Southern California]] and [[Desert (California)|Desert]]|wikidata=Q104994,Q5925,Q108143,Q169952,Q108111,Q108053,Q109670}} ==Cities== [[File:San Francisco with approaching fog.jpg|thumb|400px|San Francisco, partly enshrouded in fog]] {{mapframe}} Here are a few of California's most notable cities, listed from north to south. <!--Please note: This is just a sampler of the cities most visited, with some geographic spread. If you want to add a new city, please locate the correct sub-region article that your city resides in and add the city there instead. --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Eureka]]|url=|lat=40.801944|long=-124.163611|wikidata=Q488702}} – former logging town with charming Victorian city center, waterfront trails, and Redwood Sky Walk featuring the world's tallest tree species. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Redding]]|url=|lat=40.576667|long=-122.370278|wikidata=Q495361}} – Sundial Bridge and gateway to a plethora of outdoor adventures ranging from underground caverns to some of the highest volcanic peaks in the United States. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Sacramento]]|url=|lat=38.555556|long=-121.468889|wikidata=Q18013}} – the laid-back state capital with historic Gold Rush-era quarter of the city, Old Sacramento. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Francisco]]|url=|lat=37.7857 |long=-122.4061 |wikidata=Q62}} – Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, America's largest Chinatown, cable cars, and Victorian houses. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Jose (California)|San Jose]]|url=|lat=37.333333|long=-121.9|wikidata=Q16553}} – south of San Francisco, this city is the center of Silicon Valley, and is home to many technology companies and the (in)famous Winchester Mystery House. *{{marker|type=city| name=[[Santa Barbara]] | lat=34.421 | long=-119.698| wikidata=Q159288}} – city on a south-facing coast which styles itself, with some justification, as "the American Riviera." *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Los Angeles]]|url=|lat=34.05|long=-118.25|wikidata=Q65}} – the state's largest city, and 2nd-largest in the nation. L.A. is home to Hollywood, Venice, The Getty Center, and Griffith Park. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Palm Springs]]|url=|lat=33.830278|long=-116.545278|wikidata=Q488004}} – desert recreation with golf, spas, resorts, casinos, and the famous aerial tramway. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Diego]]|url=| lat=32.7157 | long=-117.1547 ||wikidata=Q16552}} – Balboa Park, Old Town, SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, and nearby Tijuana, Mexico. ==Other destinations== [[File:4076-joshua-tree RJ.JPG|thumb|[[Joshua Tree National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Big Sur]]|lat=36.27028|long=-121.80750|wikidata=Q859413}} can be loosely defined as the stretch of coastline between Carmel and San Simeon, and the steep cliffs, rocky coast, churning waves, abundant wildlife, redwoods, and remoteness make it a stunningly beautiful drive. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Death Valley|Death Valley National Park]]|lat=36.45|long=-117.09|wikidata=Q242111}} – a place of legend and a place of trial. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Disneyland]]|lat=33.8091|long=-117.9190|wikidata=Q1229066}} – this world-famous amusement park opened its doors in 1955 and today draws around 16 million yearly visitors. The California Adventure theme park was added in 2001 and provides attractions inspired by the state's scenery and movie industry. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Joshua Tree National Park]]|lat=33.86|long=-115.89|wikidata=Q735202}} – combines two different desert ecosystems anchored by the peculiar-looking namesake tree species. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Tahoe]]|lat=39.091667|long=-120.041667|wikidata=Q169962}} – a deep blue mountain lake, popular for water sports in the summer and skiing in the winter. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Napa Valley]]|lat=38.50|long=-122.32|wikidata=Q1151105}} – the premier wine region of the United States, with spas, wine tasting and wine tours; the historic heart of [[California Wine Country]]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]|lat=36.56472|long=-118.77337}} – these twin parks hold monuments to nature's size, beauty, and diversity, including the largest tree on Earth, the General Sherman Tree. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Yosemite National Park]]|lat=37.7333|long=-119.5500|wikidata=Q180402}} – one of the first wilderness parks in the United States, the site of natural wonders such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and numerous waterfalls. California also has [[California state parks|many state parks]], approximately half of which are near urban centers. This is in addition to the state's eight [[United States national parks#California|national parks]] found across the state. ==Understand== [[File:Mission Santa Clara.jpg|thumb|Mission [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]]]] ===History=== {{see also|Indigenous cultures of North America|Old West}} Human settlement in California goes back 50,000 years; California was home to 30 different tribal groups prior to the arrival of European explorers in the 1500s and now over 120 tribes are left. The first Europeans to discover what is now California were the Spanish and Portuguese. Spanish colonialism was established through '''[[El Camino Real|twenty-one missions]]''' built throughout California by the late 1700s. These missions still survive today, stretching from [[San Diego]] on the Mexican border to [[Sonoma]] in the northern San Francisco Bay Area. After the Mexican War for Independence in 1821, California became a part of [[Mexico]] for 25 years until 1846, when many of its residents declared a sovereign nation (the '''California Republic''', also called the ''Bear Flag Republic'') before it was annexed by the United States in 1846, and has since then had an image as the "land of opportunity" and the final destination of luck-seekers. The 1848 discovery of gold in the Sierra Nevada mountains kicked off the '''California Gold Rush''', and California's non-native population surged from 15,000 to over 300,000 within two years. People who moved to California during the Gold rush were often called "49ers", a term that was adopted as the name for the San Francisco [[American Football|football]] team. California became a state in 1850, and its population has increased steadily since then. [[Los Angeles]], a city which once boasted one of the longest streetcar networks in the world, boomed through defense contractors and later converted to a "freeway" city after the streetcars were dismantled. The city hosted Olympic Games twice (1932 & 1984) at times when the Olympic movement was in crisis and the games were largely seen as successes for the city as well as the Olympic movement. [[Post-war United States|In the post-war years]], California (especially the [[Bay Area]]) became a hotspot of counterculture, including popular music, the anti-war movement, and the LGBT community. Since the late 20th century, the state and in particular, the Bay Area, has been at the forefront of the Digital Revolution, with innovations such as personal computers and smartphones having been introduced through '''Silicon Valley'''. Today California is the most populous state in the US with over 38 million residents. Taken by itself, California would rank as one of the world's top ten economies and Californian places like Silicon Valley, Hollywood and San Francisco are known globally and have shaped not only American but world culture. Politically, California is seen as a solidly "blue" state: it has a two-thirds majority of Democrats in both chambers of the legislature and often provides the Democratic party with particularly left-wing ideas, especially on social issues. That said, the state actually contains a lot of political diversity, with conservative views prevalent in much of the state outside the densely populated Bay Area and Los Angeles County, particularly in the fertile but relatively sparsely populated [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. ===Landscape=== [[File:Giant sequoias in Sequoia National Park 2013.jpg|thumb|Sequoia National Park]] With over 160,000 square miles (411,000 km²), the landscape of California is vast and varied, and the stereotypical beach paradise is only the tip of the iceberg. The state contains extremes in elevation, with [[Mount Whitney]] at 14,505 ft (4,421 m) being the tallest mountain in the [[lower 48]] states, while less than 200 miles (320 km) away [[Death Valley]], at 282 ft (82 m) below sea level, is North America's lowest point. California's border to the west is made up of a rugged coastline along the Pacific Ocean. The coastal mountains rise up from the ocean and are home to redwood trees in their northern half. Moving eastward, the Central Valley bisects California from north-to-south, before giving way to the Sierra Nevada mountains, which are home to [[Yosemite National Park]], [[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]], and other natural wonders. The southeastern part of California is dominated by desert, which covers 25% of California's total area. The [[Mojave Desert|Mojave]] is a high desert, with elevations ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 ft (1,000 to 2,000 m) above sea level. This area receives less than six inches (152 mm) of rain each year. ===Climate=== [[File:Surfers At Steamer Lane Santa Cruz CA. - panoramio.jpg|alt=Surfers on the water|thumb|Wetsuits were invented in Santa Cruz because the ocean is so cold.]] The state's climate varies from subtropical at the coast to the brutal winters of the mountains to one of the world's hottest regions in the deserts. Rainfall is more common in the northern part of the state than in the south, and snow is rare except in the mountains. Most precipitation occurs during winter, but California experiences frequent droughts. This has prompted people to install drought-resistant landscaping. In some years, farms lie fallow due to lack of water for irrigation. The hottest temperature ever recorded in the Western Hemisphere, 134°F (56.6°C) was at Death Valley in 1913, and temperatures here regularly exceed 120°F (50°C) during the summer. In contrast, winter temperatures in the mountains can drop below 0°F (-20°C). In between these extremes there are great local variations in climate due to topography and the influence of the Pacific Ocean upon precipitation and temperature, with temperatures becoming increasingly moderated nearer the coastline. For swimming, the Pacific Ocean can be surprisingly cold even in July due to currents. September and October are the best months for swimming. Another surprise in coastal areas is the presence of cool temperatures and fog in the mornings through most of the year. To experience California as a sunny place, plan to sleep late. ===People=== California is a very diverse state with many ethnic groups. California has large populations of people of varied backgrounds such as Mexican, Salvadoran, Guatemalan, Armenian, Iranian, Jewish, Chinese, Russian, Filipino, Eastern Indian, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Thai, and Hmong. California also has large populations of African Americans and Native Americans. Although typically considered to be a liberal state, Californians have a wide variety of political views which tend to vary based on region. The Central Valley, [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]], San Diego, and Palm Springs area tend to be more conservative, while [[Los Angeles County]] and the [[Bay Area|San Francisco Bay Area]] are among the most progressive areas in the country. California is a large and diverse state, with different cultures in each region. ===Holidays=== California observes all the [[Holidays of the United States|federal holidays]], except Columbus Day, and adds Farmworkers Day on March 31st (or nearest weekday). However, some cities such as [[Coronado (California)|Coronado]] that have a large population of federal workers or military personnel do observe Columbus Day. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitcalifornia.com/ Visit California] website ==Talk== [[File:Golden Hour at Emerald Bay.jpg|thumb|Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe]] Although the California Constitution states that '''English''' is the official language of the state of California, in reality, California is a multilingual state. American English is the main language and '''[[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]''' is the ''de facto'' second language, and a knowledge of even rudimentary Spanish is useful in most cities from Sacramento to San Diego. Los Angeles has some of the largest Hispanic populations north of Mexico. The state is highly influenced by Spanish culture due to its history, and it is not uncommon to see store and street signs written in both English and Spanish. "Spanglish" (a mixture of English and Spanish) is often used and heard throughout the state. Even people with no Latino heritage whatsoever sometimes speak fluent Spanish or use common Spanish-derived expressions when speaking English. Most government offices and tourist attractions, as well as many businesses in California have at least a few employees who are bilingual in English and Spanish. In fact, some restaurants may have a workforce that is more fluent in Spanish than English. Due to a history of Asian immigration and influence, Asian languages such as Cantonese, Mandarin, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, and Hindi are also spoken among Asian Californian populations. The major cities also tend to have communities of essentially any ethnicity imaginable, and there is a good chance you can hear their language and have an opportunity to experience their cultures. San Francisco, for example, is home to a significant French community, while Los Angeles boasts quite a large Ethiopian neighborhood. ==Get in== [[File:Skyscraper Los Angeles Downtown 2013.jpg|thumb|Skyscrapers in Downtown L.A.]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Flying in the United States}} [[San Francisco International Airport]] ({{IATA|SFO}}) and [[Los Angeles International Airport]] ({{IATA|LAX}}) are the most popular entry points with a wide variety of flights from [[Europe]], [[East Asia]], [[India]], [[Oceania]] ([[Australia]], [[Fiji]], [[New Zealand]], [[Tahiti]], etc.), [[Latin America]] and from various cities in the U.S. on a variety of U.S. and foreign flag carriers. To a lesser extent there are also direct flights from the [[Middle East]] ([[Israel]], [[Qatar]], [[Saudi Arabia]], [[Turkey]] and the [[United Arab Emriates]]) to Los Angeles. They are however also the most crowded and the SFO-LAX route is one of the busiest air corridors in the world causing frequent delays due to congestion. Delays at San Francisco airport due to fog are also somewhat common. If coming from within the U.S. and from Mexico there are other alternate airports in California that are less crowded and may be closer to your final destination. They are: :* Los Angeles area – [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Hollywood-Burbank Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]] (closest to Hollywood and Downtown Los Angeles), [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa_Ana_(California)|Orange County]] (closest to Disneyland & Knott's Berry Farm), [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario International Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}) in Ontario (closest to Joshua Tree and the Inland Empire deserts), and [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach Airport] ({{IATA|LGB}}) in [[Long Beach]]. :* San Francisco Bay Area – [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport] ({{IATA|OAK}}) in Oakland (closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose Airport] ({{IATA|SJC}}) in San Jose (closest to Silicon Valley), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] ({{IATA|STS}}) in [[Santa Rosa (California)|Santa Rosa]] (closest to Wine Country). Both San Francisco and Oakland airports are now connected to the local metro network, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a bus route 10 to the 'Santa Clara Station'. :* [[San Diego International Airport]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) in San Diego :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento Airport]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) in Sacramento :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno Airport]] ({{IATA|RNO}}) in [[Reno]], Nevada is closer to [[Lake Tahoe]] than from Sacramento. :* [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno Airport] ({{IATA|FAT}}) in Fresno, closest to Yosemite NP and the major airport in the [[San Joaquin Valley]]. :* Palm Springs ({{IATA|PSP}}) :* Central Coast – Monterey ({{IATA|MRY}}) (closest to Big Sur), San Luis Obispo ({{IATA|SBP}}) (closest to Hearst Castle), and Santa Barbara ({{IATA|SBA}}). :* [[Harry_Reid_International_Airport|Las Vegas]] ({{IATA|LAS}}), Nevada is closer to Death Valley NP than from Los Angeles or Ontario. :* [[Tijuana#By plane|Tijuana Airport]] ({{IATA|TIJ}}) in Tijuana. If coming from Mexico it may be more advantageous to fly to Tijuana on a (Mexican) domestic flight and then cross into San Diego by ground transportation or through its second terminal (CBX) on the American side of the border than on an international flight to San Diego, Los Angeles, or other cities further north. From San Diego, you can continue north to the San Francisco Bay area, Las Vegas, [[Phoenix]] or wherever in the U.S. you are continuing to. See [[California#By plane 2|By plane]] under the "Get Around" section for more information. ===By train=== {{see also|Rail travel in the United States}} [[Amtrak]] serves several routes into and out of California. If you are going to Los Angeles from the Central Valley, you might have to change to a bus for the last part of the trip, as the only railway connection between the Central Valley and Los Angeles is also one of the busiest freight lines in the United States. Plans to build a new [[high speed rail]] line to link San Francisco and Los Angeles are underway, but completion is not scheduled before the late 2020s. The following Amtrak routes serve California and terminate in [[Los Angeles#By train|Los Angeles]] or [[Emeryville]]: * The ''[[California Zephyr]]'' runs daily between [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] and [[Emeryville]] with connections in [[Omaha]], [[Denver]], [[Provo]], [[Salt Lake City]] and [[Reno|Reno/Lake Tahoe]]. This train also stops in the Sierra Nevada (Truckee and Colfax) and the Sacramento Valley (Roseville, [[Sacramento]], Davies and Martinez). Emeryville is the nearest Amtrak station to downtown San Francisco where passengers transfer to the Amtrak Thruway bus to continue across the bay to San Francisco. * The ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' runs daily between Los Angeles and [[Seattle#By train|Seattle]] via [[Portland (Oregon)#By train|Portland]], [[Klamath Falls]], [[Redding]], [[Bay Area (California)|San Francisco Bay Area]], Santa Barbara, [[San Luis Obispo]] and [[Oxnard]]. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/southwest-chief-train.html Southwest Chief]'' runs daily from [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] via [[Kansas City]], [[Albuquerque]], [[Flagstaff]], Williams Junction (nearest stop to the [[Grand Canyon]]) and [[Kingman]] to Los Angeles. It also makes stops in the Mojave Desert ([[Needles]], [[Barstow]] and [[Victorville]]); the [[Inland Empire]] ([[Riverside]] and [[San Bernardino]]) and Orange County ([[Fullerton]]) and on its way into Los Angeles. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/sunset-limited-train.html Sunset Limited]'' runs three times a week from [[New Orleans]] via [[Houston]], [[San Antonio]], [[El Paso]], [[Tucson]] and [[Yuma]]. Additionally, Amtrak's ''[http://www.texaseagle.com/ Texas Eagle]'' service between San Antonio and Chicago incorporates the Sunset Limited to provide a direct connection to Los Angeles with the same stops as the Sunset Limited between San Antonio and Los Angeles. This train also stops in the Inland Empire ([[Pomona]], Ontario and Palm Springs). Train services are limited to two token lines with hardly any real transport value in Mexico and there are ''no'' passenger rail service to anywhere near the U.S./Mexican border from anywhere in Mexico. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to California. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''By bus'' under ''Get around'' in the below for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By car=== All major road entrances (including entrances from other U.S. States) to California have agricultural inspection stations to ensure that some fruits and vegetables do not cross into a region where they may come into contact with the farms in the [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. Often, travelers are subject to border inspection (somewhat strict for domestic travel) and asked if they have been on a farm or are carrying organic matter with them. ==Get around== California is the third largest state of the U.S. by area (after [[Alaska]] and [[Texas]]). It compares in size with [[Sweden]]. However, getting around California can be simple. ===By car=== [[File:California State Route 1 in Marin County.jpg|California State Route 1|thumb|right|250px]] [[File:405 southbound near Getty Museum.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Interstate 405 in Los Angeles]] In addition to interstates and US highways, California has one of the most expansive state highway systems in the United States. As with all long-distance trips in the United States, a car is generally the best way to get around and see destinations, especially rural ones. However the trip from the northern end of California to the southern end can take well over ten hours as the state's varied and in places rugged terrain can pose obstacles to the road network. The coast routes (State Route 1 and U.S. 101) are much slower and windier than Interstate 5, and GPS travel estimate times may be inaccurate, especially on Highway 1. Most California drivers are courteous and careful (although speeding is rampant), and the safety and ease of driving in California is comparable to most wealthy countries. Exceptions may be found in the most congested areas of San Francisco and Los Angeles &mdash; where potholes, road rage and reckless driving are commonplace &mdash; and some country roads in mountain ranges. Information about vehicle collisions and other non-congestion traffic problems on highways are reported online at [https://www.chp.ca.gov/traffic chp.ca.gov/traffic]. Traffic congestion is tracked by most online map sites. Gasoline prices are more expensive than in other parts of the U.S.; consider public transit in highly populated areas such as the Bay Area where prices are especially high. ====Freeway signage (and cautions)==== California uses the MUTCD (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices) lane marking system standard throughout the United States, in which dashed white lines divide lanes of through traffic and yellow divides opposing traffic (with single dashed indicating passing and double solid indicating no passing). In many urban areas the lane markings are replaced by Botts dots for additional tactile feedback when crossing lanes. The network of freeways in major population centers is often confusing and intimidating to those unfamiliar with the area, so having a good map is very helpful. The great majority of exits from freeways are on the right. At interchanges between freeways, in most cases, the flow of traffic continues through the left lanes with the transition to the other freeway being in the right lanes. At some freeway interchanges, Caltrans (California Dept. of Transportation) is notorious for posting advance direction signs that do not correctly explain which lanes correspond to which ramps. Additionally, Caltrans does not always post signs warning of upcoming lane drops or merges. For example, where a freeway has three through lanes and the central lane splits into two lanes, thus resulting in two ramps with two lanes each, the advance signage may incorrectly imply that only the right lane will break off for the upcoming right-side ramp, thus causing visitors driving in the middle lane to merge unnecessarily into the right lane. And the two lanes on the right-side ramp may suddenly merge into each other without any warning. These issues frequently result in visitors making wild last-minute lane merges. Approach major freeway interchanges in California with caution. Mile-based exit numbering is in progress but is still very erratic in areas; an exit number may not be marked at all, may be marked on the last directional sign before the exit, or may be marked on the final "Exit" sign where the exit ramp separates. ====Ramp meters==== In urban areas, the access ramps to a freeway may have traffic lights for each lane (called ramp meters or ramp metering lights; you'll see warning signs that read "meter on"). During high-traffic times, the traffic light spaces out the vehicles attempting to merge onto the freeway. Be sure to read the sign below the light as ramps can allow 1 to 3 vehicles per green light. Most ramp meters are for ramps from local roads to a freeway, but some freeway junctions have meters on their ramps too. ====Toll roads and bridges==== Most highways are freely accessible and toll-free. However, California has some toll bridges, toll roads, and tolled Express Lanes. Toll road and bridges are indicated on road signs. When a toll-free road flows directly into a toll road or bridge, there is sometimes a sign for "last exit before toll". FasTrak electronic toll collection (ETC) via toll transponders or tags is used for all toll facilities. Cash is no longer accepted. FasTrak is not compatible with any other state's ETC system. Some California toll authorities also allow online pay-by-plate, but if no signage mentions it, assume it is unavailable. If you drive a vehicle through a toll gantry without an active FasTrak account and the toll authority has no pay by plate option, you may receive an expensive ticket for nonpayment of toll. In Northern California, all major bridges in the San Francisco Bay Area have toll plazas, with tolls charged on traffic in only one direction. The plazas are unmanned and will be replaced with gantries for open-road tolling, but for now, drivers must slow to 20 mph to pass through them. Southern California has several toll roads in Orange County which use open-road tolling. "Express Lanes" are high-occupancy (HOV) lanes (carpool lanes) that non-high-occupancy vehicles can often use by paying a toll. Electronic signs will indicate whether the Express Lane is "open to all" (no toll is charged) or "HOV only" (only HOVs eligible for toll-free access may use the lane). If the signs show a price in dollars and cents, it means that non-HOV vehicles may use the Express Lane but will be charged that toll. During times of severe traffic congestion, Express Lanes may charge tolls of $20 or more per vehicle. HOVs are supposed to be exempt from tolls in Express Lanes. Some Express Lane operators require all HOVs to carry FasTrak Flex transponders to signal their toll-free status. If you are legally using a free carpool lane and a sign warns it will turn into a tolled Express Lane, you must merge immediately back into regular lanes if you do not have FasTrak Flex. ====HOV/carpool lanes==== Some freeways have a high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane on the far left. This lane, also called the carpool lane or diamond lane, is marked by: * a diamond symbol painted on the road surface * signage on the wall separating the two sides of the freeway, with the diamond symbol * a double yellow line on the road surface (only in Southern California) Some freeway access ramps have carpool lanes too; often, the non-carpool lanes will have ramp meter traffic lights while the carpool lane has none. In most cases, the carpool lane is only for vehicles with 2 or more persons inside, motorcycles, and clean-air vehicles with [https://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/carpool/carpool.htm government-issued "Access OK" stickers]. Sometimes, 3 or more persons and/or a FasTrak transponder may be required, so check the signage before entering a carpool lane. Carpool lane restrictions may be enforced 24 hours a day every day, or only when the signage says so (in those cases, it's usually only during rush hour on weekdays). Carpool lanes in Southern California have limited access points marked by a dashed white line. This is the only point at which a vehicle may legally enter or exit a carpool lane, since you are not allowed to cross a double yellow line. The minimum fine for unlawful use of a carpool lane is $490. ====Traffic safety and law enforcement==== All persons in a moving vehicle are required to wear a seatbelt and the driver and all passengers can be individually ticketed for failing to do so. Motorcycle riders must wear a helmet. Cellphone users are required to use a hands-free headset if talking on the phone while driving. Texting by the driver is illegal, as is any action on the phone that forces the driver to touch it more than once (and even single-touch actions are only allowed if the phone is mounted securely rather than hand-held). Unless otherwise signed, right-turns are permitted at red lights following a full stop. If it is raining hard enough to require you to use your windshield wipers, California law requires that your headlights be turned on. Most California police officers carry radar guns to catch speeding drivers. The California Highway Patrol occasionally flies aircraft overhead to spot speeders and help ground units home in on their positions. Red light enforcement cameras are in use at many urban intersections, but are marked only by a single "photo enforced" sign before the intersection. Speed enforcement cameras are being piloted in a few cities, including San Francisco and Los Angeles; the cameras are small and hard to spot. California's laws against driving under the influence of alcohol are very strict; the maximum permissible blood alcohol concentration is 0.08%. All drivers are strongly encouraged to call 911 to report drunk drivers. California requires disabled out-of-state visitors to apply at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for a travel placard for handicapped parking. It is valid for 90 days. Travelers with a non-US driver's license are generally permitted to drive in California. However, travelers who are in California for more than 10 days with some kinds of visas, especially the K-1 non-immigrant visa for future spouses, have run into some difficulties over their place of residence. The DMV refuses to issue drivers' licenses to people with non-immigrant visas, but police have filed charges against some of them for becoming a California resident without promptly obtaining a California license – the very license that the State refuses to issue on the grounds that they haven't legally become residents yet. This risk may be reduced by giving your non-California address as your place of legal residence if stopped by police. Unlike most states, "lane-splitting" by motorcyclists (i.e. riding down the painted lines between traffic lanes) is legal in California and commonly done in heavy traffic. It's only legal when traffic is going slower than 30 mph, and motorcyclists are only allowed to go 15 mph faster than the general flow of traffic, but many motorcyclists seem to treat this as more of a guideline than a hard and fast rule. As a result, if you're driving a car, take extra care to watch for motorcycles when changing lanes on a major highway. ====Major highways==== [[File:California State Route 1 All American Road sign.jpg|150px|thumb|right|A California State Highway sign. The poppy sign below it indicates that it is a state scenic route]] Here are some important highways in California: * [[File:I-5.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 5]]:''' Runs between San Diego, Los Angeles, and Sacramento, then north into Oregon and Washington. :*[[File:California 99.svg|22px]] '''State Route 99:''' Runs along the California Central Valley between Red Bluff, Sacramento, Stockton, Modesto, Fresno and Bakersfield as the Golden State Freeway. * [[File:I-8.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 8:''' Runs between San Diego, Calexico, Yumma, and Casa Grande, Arizona. * [[File:I-10.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10]]:''' Runs between Santa Monica, Los Angeles, the Inland Empire and Palm Springs, then over the Colorado River into Arizona and points east. * [[File:I-15.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 15:''' Runs between San Diego, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Las Vegas, Nevada and points north. * [[File:I-40.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 40:''' Runs between Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona, towards Oklahoma City and points east. Interstate 40 bypasses or replaces the old Route 66 between Barstow and Oklahoma City (as County Rd 66 in San Bernardino County). :* [[File:US_66_(historic).svg|22px]] '''[[Route 66|Historic Route 66]]:''' Now decommissioned, historically connected Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona and points east. It runs alongside I-40 between Barstow and Oklahoma City and alongside or concurrent with I-15 between Barstow and San Bernardino. * [[File:I-80.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 80#California|Interstate 80]]:''' Runs between the Bay Area, Sacramento, Reno, Nevada, and points east. * [[File:I-405.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 405:''' Runs {{mile|72}} between Northridge and Irvine via Van Nuys, LAX, Culver City, Long Beach, Santa Ana, and point in between as an auxiliary by-pass of I-5 through the Los Angeles Area. * [[File:I-580.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 580:''' Connects the San Francisco Bay Area with Interstate 5 in the Central Valley * [[File:US 50.svg|22px]]'''U.S. Highway 50:''' Runs between Sacramento, South Lake Tahoe, Carson City, Nevada, and points east * [[File:US 101.svg|22px]] '''[[U.S._Highway_101|U.S. Highway 101]]:''' Runs between Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, then close to the California Coast to the San Francisco Bay, Eureka and points north :* [[File:California 1.svg|22px]] '''[[Pacific Coast Highway|State Route 1]]:''' Runs up the California Coast between Orange County, Los Angeles, Monterey, the Bay Area, and [[Fort Bragg]] * [[File:US 395.svg|22px]] '''[[U.S._Highway_395|'U.S. Highway 395]]:''' Runs along the Eastern Sierras, connecting the Inland Empire and High Desert with Bishop, Reno, and Susanville, then into Oregon and points north ====Taxis and rideshares==== Taxis and rideshare services (Uber and Lyft) are widely available in and around California's largest cities: San Francisco, Los Angeles (including Orange County), San Diego, and Sacramento. They are less likely to be available in small towns and rural areas. ====Robotaxis==== Waymo operates a robotaxi service with self-driving vehicles in two service areas: one on the San Francisco Peninsula from San Francisco to downtown San Jose, and another in the western part of Los Angeles south of the Santa Monica Mountains, from downtown Los Angeles to Santa Monica and as far south as Inglewood. However, Waymo does not yet have authorization to provide service to Los Angeles International Airport. Only San Jose International Airport allows Waymo unrestricted access to pick up and drop off passengers. Waymo is now able to drive on freeways, and it can also pick up and drop off at San Francisco International Airport, but only at the Rental Car Center (10 minutes to the terminals via AirTrain tram). Both features are subject to wait lists, making them less useful to new users. ===By plane=== [[File:LAX LA.jpg|Los Angeles International Airport|250px|thumb|right]] Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state. [https://www.aa.com American/American Eagle]; [https://www.united.com/ United/United Express]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.delta.com Delta], [https://www.southwest.com Southwest], [https://www.jetblue.com JetBlue], [http://www.jsx.com Jet Suite X (JSX)], [https://www.spirit.com Spirit] and [https://www.alaskaair.com Alaska Airlines] offer intrastate flights within the state of California. San Francisco is a hub for United and Alaska; while Los Angeles is a hub for United, American/American Eagle, Delta, JetBlue and Alaska Airlines. The LAX-SFO route is one of the busiest in America which means competitive fares and delays are frequent which is only made worse by the fog that tends to hit San Francisco bay on a regular basis. In addition, the airlines offer flights from different airports in [[Southern California#By plane|southern California]] in the south; to the [[Bay_Area_(California)#By plane|SF Bay area]] and to Sacramento in the north at competitive rates. A route between lesser-known airports (say, Burbank to Oakland) may save you money and avoid airport chaos compared to LAX-SFO. The primary airports served by major US carriers, Volaris (from Mexico) and Aeromexico (from Mexico) in California are in: :* Los Angeles area – [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles International]] ({{IATA|LAX}}), [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Burbank-Hollywood Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]], [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa Ana_(California)|Orange County]]; [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}), and a small airport in [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach] ({{IATA|LGB}}) :* San Francisco Bay Area – [[San Francisco International Airport|San Francisco]] ({{IATA|SFO}}), [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay] ({{IATA|OAK}}), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose] ({{IATA|SJC}}), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] (Charles M. Schulz Airport) ({{IATA|STS}}) in Santa Rosa; both San Francisco and Oakland airport are now connected to the metro, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a free shuttle at the 'Santa Clara Station'. Oakland is closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO is and offers a fog-free alternative. :* [[San Diego#By plane|San Diego]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno]] ({{IATA|RNO}}), Nevada closer to the Lake Tahoe area than Sacramento The busiest second tier airports are [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno] ({{IATA|FAT}}) (nearest to Yosemite NP); [https://flysba.santabarbaraca.gov/ Santa Barbara] ({{IATA|SBA}}); and [https://flypsp.com/ Palm Springs] ({{IATA|PSP}}). There are also flights from major hubs to [[Arcata]]/McKinleyville (nearest to Eureka), Bakersfield, Crescent City, El Centro, Mammoth Lakes, Merced, Monterey, Redding, San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, and Stockton. ===By train=== The state's various rail services provide a cheap and reasonably comfortable way to see and get around much of the state [[USA without a car|without a car]]. '''[[Amtrak]]''' operates a few long-distance routes through and out of California, as well as the three Amtrak California routes: :* San Luis Obispo-Santa Barbara-Los Angeles-Anahiem-San Diego on the ''[https://www.pacificsurfliner.com/ Pacific Surfliner]'' :* Oakland/Sacramento-Stockton-Fresno-Bakersfield on the ''[https://goldrunner.com/ Gold Runner]'' (which has a connecting Thruway bus service to Los Angeles) :* San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Auburn on the ''[https://www.capitolcorridor.org/ Capitol Corridor]'' :* Los Angeles-Santa Barbara-San Luis Obispo-San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Redding-(continues to Seattle) on the ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' :* Emeryville (San Francisco connection)-Sacramento-Truckee (near Lake Tahoe)-(continues to Chicago) on the ''California Zephyr'' :*Los Angeles-Palm Springs-(continues to Chicago) on the Sunset Limited :*''Amtrak Thruway Motorcoaches'' connects additional cities and towns to/from the Amtrak (train) network by bus such as Santa Cruz-San Jose; San Francisco-Emeryville; Bakersfield-Los Angeles; Bakersfield-Las Vegas; Martinez-Arcata; Redding-Sacramento; etc. Amtrak has seen continuously increasing ridership in most of the US for more than a decade now, and surprisingly enough three of the six most popular Amtrak routes run through California, thus making them a viable alternative to the more often than not congested roads and airports. In addition, there are several commuter and regional services in the state's metro areas: :*''[https://www.caltrain.com/ Caltrain]'' San Francisco-Palo Alto-San Jose-Gilroy through the famous Silicon Valley. :* ''[https://acerail.com/ Altamont Commuter Express]'' San Jose-Stockton through the Altamont Corridor Express. :* ''[https://www.bart.gov/ BART]'' operates in the Bay Area, connecting much of the East Bay (Oakland, Berkeley, Walnut Creek) to San Francisco and SFO. :* ''[https://metrolinktrains.com/ Metrolink]'' runs regional train service throughout the greater Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura County (metropolis) region on multiple routes. :* ''[https://gonctd.com/services/coaster-commuter-rail/ COASTER]'' runs along the coast of San Diego County between downtown San Diego, Carlsbad and Oceanside. :*''[https://gonctd.com/services/sprinter-hybrid-rail/ SPRINTER]'' runs across Northern San Diego County between Escondino and Oceanside with bus and train connections to Los Angeles and San Diego. :*''[https://www.sonomamarintrain.org/ Sonoma-Marin Rail (SMART)]'' runs between Santa Rosa and San Rafael in Marin/Sonoma County (Northern Bay Area) with ferry connections to San Francisco There are also light rail systems in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Jose. Almost all of these systems are being expanded or upgraded to cope with rising ridership, so expect more and better service in years to come. ===By bus=== {{see also|Long-distance bus travel in the United States }} The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There are fairly frequent service from [[Los Angeles#By bus|Los Angeles]] to [[San Francisco#By bus|San Francisco]]/[[San Jose_(California)#By bus|San Jose]]; [[San Diego#By_bus|San Diego]]/[[Tijuana#By_bus|Tijuana]]; [[Las Vegas#By_bus|Las Vegas]]/[[San Bernardino#By_bus|San Bernardino]] and [[Sacramento#By bus|Sacramento]] with on multiple routes with various bus companies. There are other the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns which are not listed, check the article of your destination for all the transportation options. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/california/ here]. * {{listing | name=Eastern Sierra Transit | alt= | url=https://www.estransit.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 760 872-1901 | tollfree=+1 800 922-1930 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Operates 'local' buses along US Hwy 395 corridor between Mammoth Lake, Bishop and Lone Pine in Mono and Inyo Counties in the eastern 'Desert' and the Sierra Nevada parts of the state. They have a route continuing north to Carson City & Reno from Mammoth Lake and south to Lancaster from Lone Pine. The area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway buses }} * {{listing | type=go | name=El Paso Los Angeles Limousine Express | alt= | url=https://www.eplalimo.com/ | email= | address=(downtown LA depot) 622 E 6th St | lat= | long= | directions=SW corner of E 6th St & Wall St across the street from police station | phone=+1 213 623-2323 and +1 323-265-3232 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Travels along I-10 between Los Angeles, [[Indio]], Phoenix, [[Las Cruces]] and El Paso on one route and on I-15 to Las Vegas & North Las Vegas on another route. They have additional stops in E. Los Angeles, El Monte and [[Colton]] on their way on both routes. They also have a second depot at 4425 S Atlantic Blvd in E Los Angeles. }} * {{listing | name=Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.flixbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 626-8585 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-06-14 | content=The German bus company, Flixbus, connects Los Angeles to Las Vegas, Phoenix, Sacramento, SF Bay Area and San Diego via multiple cities en route in Arizona and California. It has grown rapidly through subcontracting its operations, which has the downside for customers that the buses are not of a consistent style or quality. In October 2021 they had merged with Greyhound Lines (see below) but, maintain separate brands. Tickets and schedules with Greyhound and Flixbus can be searched and purchased through each other's websites. }} * {{listing | name=Green Tortoise | alt= | url=https://greentortoise.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 415 956-7500 | tollfree=1 800 867-8647 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates something like a 'hippie' bus that serves as a bus by day with stops to visit different places like a bus tour throughout the day and a RV camper by night in different campgrounds. It offers bus tours and camping trips to Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Death Valley Sequoia and along the coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Some of its tours involve a 3- to 5-day round trip from the point of origin such as from San Francisco to Yosemite NP and back while others are one way where the journey starts from one place and end in the other like from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree and end in Las Vegas. Even with round trips it is possible to ask to be picked up or dropped off in different places than the point of origin/return. Others like its 'Hostel Hoppers' or 'Express' are a straightforward bus ride from point A to B. It is one way to combine 'taking the bus' from one place to another and to visit and see remote places without a private automobile. }} * {{listing | name=Greyhound , Cruceros-USA, Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1 800 231-2222 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Greyhound goes to 100 locations statewide, though these are not all actual stations, some are merely stops. In general, Greyhound serves the same routes that Amtrak does along the main highways. In some cases Greyhound is cheaper, faster, and more frequent than Amtrak. Flixbus tickets can also be searched and purchased on Greyhound's website }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Hoang Express | alt= | url=https://www.xedohoang.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 714 839-3500 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=$60-65 to Bay Area; $80 to Sacramento | content=Travels between SoCal (San Diego, El Monte, Los Angeles, [[Westminster (California)|Westminster]]); Bay Area (San Francisco, San Jose & Oakland) and to Sacramento on another route from Los Angeles. They also offer service from Los Angeles to Arizona (Phoenix, [[Chandler (Arizona)|Chandler]] and [[Tempe]]. }} * {{go | name=International Bus Lines | alt=formerly Intercalifornias | url=https://www.ibuslines.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 629-4885 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination | content=Connects Tijuana, San Ysidro (just over the border), Santa Ana, Los Angeles, San Fernando, Bakersfield, Fresno, and San Jose/[[Stockton (California)|Stockton]] (route splits/joins in Madero) and several other places in between. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=LuxBus | alt= | url=https://www.luxbusamerica.com/ | email= | address=on request for hotel pick up/drop off | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-877-610-7870 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Operates to/from [[Las Vegas]], [[Anaheim]], and [[San Diego]]. }} * {{listing | name=Mendocino Transit Authority (MTA) | alt= | url=https://mendocinotransit.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Travels extensively in the North Coast region along Hwy 1 from Ft Bragg to Navarro River Junction (#65), Point Arena (#75), Bodega Bay and Santa Rosa (#95). Another route from Ft Bragg to Willits, Ukiah and Santa Rosa along SR-20 and US Hwy 101 (Rt #65). Much of the area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway Buses off the US Hwy 101 corridor. }} * {{listing | name=Sage Stage | alt= | url=https://sagestage.com/ | email= | address=(bus stops) Rite Aide @ 5th & Main in Alturas | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 530 233-6410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-18 | content=Provides public transportation from Alturas and Canby in Modoc County, in the [[Shasta Cascades]], to [[Redding]]; [[Reno]], NV; and [[Klamath Falls]], OR on three separate routes. }} * {{listing | name=Santa Barbara Airbus | alt= | url=https://www.sbairbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 805 964-7759 | tollfree=+1-800-423-1618 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-08-05 | content=Eight trips a day from [[Los Angeles International Airport|LAX]] to [[Carpinteria]], [[Santa Barbara]] and [[Goleta]]. }} * {{listing | name="Cabin" | alt=formerly Sleep Bus | url=https://www.ridecabin.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-25 | content=Overnight service to the Los Angeles area (Ocean & Arizona Ave in Palisades Park in [[Santa Monica]]) from San Francisco (Bayside Lot @ 1 Bryant St). This is an actual sleeper bus featuring twin size bunk beds with privacy curtains, power outlets, and free wifi. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Tufesa | alt= | url=https://www.gotobus.com/tufesa/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 489-8079 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination |lastedit=2022-11-30| content=Connects Los Angeles to Sacramento (via Bakersfield, Fresno, etc); to Salt Lake City (via Barstow, Las Vegas, St George, etc); to Hermosillo (via Phoenix, Tucson, Nogales); San Francisco Bay Area; and to Tijuana (via Santa Ana, San Diego/San Ysidro). }} * {{listing | name=Yarts | alt= | url=https://yarts.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates regularly scheduled buses from Yosemite NP (Visitors' Center) to Fresno, Merced, Mammoth Lakes & Sonora on four separate routes. }} ===By foot=== *The [[Pacific Crest Trail]] crosses the length of California on its way from [[Mexico]] to [[Canada]] *The [[American Discovery Trail]] connects California with [[Nevada]] and the East Coast. ===By boat=== *Ferry service is limited, but can be a scenic, relaxing, and fun way to travel. Major services exist in the [[Bay Area]], to the [[Channel Islands (California)|Channel Islands]] and to [[Catalina Island]] near Los Angeles. Several of the smaller coastal towns have water taxi services within their city. Check as the stops and limited and the schedules may seasonal. *Many cities are along the coast, or else on navigable waterways, and you can dock your own boat there. == See == [[File:Us-ca-sanfran-goldengate.jpg|thumb|Golden Gate Bridge in [[San Francisco]]]] As the most geographically and culturally diverse state in the U.S., California offers an endless amount of things to see and do; even when you think you've experienced everything in one area of the state, a short trip to another part has plenty more to offer. Incredible and unique scenery, some of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, centuries old historical sites, unending cultural and entertainment options {{snd}}no matter where your interests lie, California will almost certainly offer it. ===Natural attractions=== [[Image:16-yosemite-half-dome.jpg|thumb|Half Dome at [[Yosemite National Park]]]] From white-sand beaches to snowcapped mountains, with lush forests and arid deserts in between, no other state offers such a wide a variety of natural landscapes as California does. California hosts the largest number of [[United States national parks|U.S. national parks]] with a total of nine. The most famous of these is '''[[Yosemite National Park]]''', featuring thundering waterfalls and geological behemoths like El Capitan and Half Dome. The surrounding [[Sierra Nevada]] also hosts nearby '''[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]''' which are both home to some of the world's largest living organisms, the giant sequoia. '''[[Redwood National Park]]''' in the far northwestern corner of the state and the surrounding area feature the world's tallest species of trees, the coast redwood. Tired of forests? The California desert is the site of some of the hottest and most arid places on Earth. '''[[Death Valley National Park]]''' is the location of the highest ever recorded temperature on the planet. If deserts are not your thing, beaches and California are practically synonymous. '''[[Big Sur]]''' and '''[[Point Reyes National Seashore|Point Reyes]]''' are notable examples of a scenic, winding stretch of unspoiled coastline that is typical of Northern California, featuring rocky cliffs and towering redwood trees that meet thundering ocean waves. Further south, the water is much warmer and suitable for all-day beach trips. Here, world-class beach towns such as '''[[Santa Barbara]]''', '''[[Malibu]]''', and those of '''[[Beach Cities|Orange County]]''' offer opportunities to catch waves, practice beach volleyball, or simply lounge around and tan underneath palm trees. If high-altitude adventure is what you are seeking, California has that too. At an elevation of 14,505 feet (4,421 meters) above sea level, '''[[Mount Whitney]]''' is the highest mountain in the lower 48 states. Snow activities such as skiing and snowboarding are plentiful in '''[[Lake Tahoe]]''' in the winter, while hiking and water recreation such as boating are popular in summer. [[File:Silver Lake.jpg|thumb|Silver Lake is in the [[Sierra Nevada|Sierra Nevada Range]] of eastern California]] While the national parks may receive most of the attention, California has the largest [[California state parks|state park system]] in the United States. These protected areas are found in places ranging from being adjacent to national parks to green landscapes in the middle of cities that offer a respite from the hectic urban rush. California's high population and its climate have also led to the creation of numerous [[Reservoirs in California|reservoirs]]. California marine animals (native and migrating) are easily found in the wild along the state's beaches, in lagoons and estuaries, such as sea otters, grey whales, elephant seals, harbor seals, sea lions as well as multitudes of tide pools dwellers including crabs, sea stars, anemone, and sea urchins. Timing is key: go at low tide to see lots of marine life. ===Monuments and architecture=== California has long been a canvas for architects and engineers to design and build some pioneering structures or to popularize styles that would define a time period. With two of the most prominent cities in the United States, [[Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco]], this is certainly notable with many of the structures and buildings that are found there. San Francisco is home to engineering marvels such as the '''Golden Gate Bridge''', Lombard Street (the most crooked street in the world), and cable cars that seemingly glide up and down the hills between the waterfront and rest of downtown. The many skyscrapers such as the Transamerica Pyramid have all been specifically designed to withstand powerful earthquakes. The stately '''Palace of Fine Arts''' and charming Painted Ladies of Alamo Square have served as backdrops countless of times for the city by the Bay. As the epicenter of the global entertainment industry, the '''Hollywood Sign''' is an icon of Los Angeles recognized worldwide. The nearby Hollywood Walk of Fame, Capitol Records Building, and numerous theaters all solidify the city's hold on entertainment. The Griffith Observatory and Walt Disney Concert Hall are also notable features in the cityscape, as is the imposing '''Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum''', the site of the 1932 and 1984 Summer Olympics. Other notable landmarks outside these two cities include the '''California State Capitol''' in [[Sacramento]] (modeled after the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.), labyrinthine '''Winchester Mystery House''' in [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]] with eerie origins, and the lavish '''Hearst Castle''' in the Central Coast town of [[San Simeon]] that anchors the landscape of the surrounding area. ===Historical sites=== From former Native American sites to suburban garages where modern technology was invented, California's centuries-long history is preserved in numerous historical sites and museums that are scattered throughout the state. One of the most comprehensive collections of state history from prehistory to contemporary times is housed in the '''Oakland Museum of California''' in [[Oakland]], with a vast collection of nearly 2 million items related to California history, art, and science. The legacy of Spanish colonial times remains with the string of '''twenty-one missions''' that span the length of much of the state from '''Mission San Diego de Alcalá ''' in the San Diego's [[San Diego/Old Town-Mission Valley|Old Town]] (founded in 1769) up to '''Mission San Francisco Solano''' in the Bay Area town of [[Sonoma]] (founded in 1823). Perhaps the most beautiful of these though, is '''Mission Santa Barbara''', which lent its name to [[Santa Barbara|the same city]] and is rightfully referred to as the "Queen of the Missions". '''El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument''' in downtown [[Los Angeles]] is another historical feature from the Spanish era, although the neighborhood underwent a major transformation during the period of Mexican rule (1821 to 1848) that now gives the area a distinct Mexican atmosphere, particularly along Olvera Street. Spain was not the only European power that colonized California, however. '''[[Fort Ross]]''' in the northern edge of the Bay Area was the southernmost Russian outpost in North America and was in operation from 1812 to 1841. Gold Rush legacies live on in [[Gold Country]], located in the northeastern part of the state. Following the discovery of gold at '''Sutter's Mill''' in [[Coloma (California)|Coloma]] in 1848, hundreds of thousands of fortune seekers from around the world made their way to California, establishing dozens of towns, most of which still retain their Old West charm and atmosphere. '''Old Sacramento''' in the [[Sacramento|state's capital city]] also sprung up as the commercial and transportation center of this era, with places of interest including the first terminus of the '''First Transcontinental Railroad''' and related California Railroad Museum. '''Cannery Row''' and much of the rest of [[Monterey (California)|Monterey]] provide a glimpse of the state's once lucrative fishing and canning industry during the first half of the 20th century, with carefully preserved wooden buildings that housed factory workers and engines, along with rustic (and still active) piers. ===Motion picture sets=== Countless [[fiction tourism|films and television series]] have been set in California. Much of the production is made within the 30-mile (50-km) studio zone around Los Angeles, but sceneries across the whole state are famous from the movies. Some franchises with their own itineraries are ''[[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]]'', ''[[Easy Rider]]'', ''[[Fast and Furious tourism|Fast and Furious]]'', ''[[Forrest Gump tour|Forrest Gump]]'', ''[[Kill Bill tourism|Kill Bill]]'' and ''[[Terminator tourism|The Terminator]]''. ===Itineraries=== *[[El Camino Real]] (The Royal Road) &mdash; a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of Alta California (modern day state of California) offering a fascinating look into California's history. [[U.S. Highway 101]] is also part of this El Camino Highway. *[[Pacific Coast Highway]] &mdash; tour up and down the iconic California coast, along [[Big Sur]], all the way up to its end where it merges into the US 101, which goes up to Washington state. * [[U.S. Highway 395]], [[Interstate 5#California|Interstate 5 & CA-99]], [[Interstate 10]], [[Interstate 80]], and the [[Lincoln Highway]] are major highways through California with their own Wikivoyage article. ==Do== [[File:Hollywood sign 053004.jpg|thumb|[[Hollywood]]]] * '''Ski''' at one of the great resorts near [[Lake Tahoe]] or [[Big Bear Lake|Big Bear]]. * Try your hand at '''surfing''' or work on your tan in [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]] or [[Santa Monica]]. * The long coastline offers some great [[Scuba diving in California|California scuba diving]]. * Go '''winetasting''' at one of the countless vineyards dotting [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. * Climb a mountain and camp in the [[Sierra Nevada]] or [[Shasta Cascades]]. * See California's amazing wildflowers. From March through May, the [https://theodorepayne.org/ California Wildflower Hotline] at +1 818 768-3533 offers the latest information on the best places to view wildflowers throughout Southern and Central California. The hotline and website are updated every Thursday evening. More than 90 wildflower sites are included. The hotline, founded in 1983, is run by the Theodore Payne Foundation for Wild Flowers and Native Plants. * Listen to music at the '''[http://www.northerncaliforniabluesfest.com Northern California Blues Festival]{{Dead link|date=October 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. The fastest growing festival of its kind comes in June to Sacramento County around Father's day each year and usually features a spectacular line-up of Blues artists. Event benefits Through the Mind, a non-profit providing free alternative mental health to America's Veterans. * Visit one of the many '''theme parks''', such as [[Disneyland]] or [[Six Flags Magic Mountain]]. ==Buy== {{see also|Shopping in the United States}} Usually US dollars and common credit or debit cards are the only accepted modes of payment. Many stores can take contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. You might have some luck with Mexican pesos near the immediate border area, but the exchange rates are usually terrible. California stores no longer give out free plastic bags, except for fresh grocery produce and meats. Reusable plastic bags cost a minimum of ten cents (by state law). Many stores sell cloth bags for one or two dollars. The state sales tax is 7.25%. However, counties and cities are allowed to levy their own sales taxes on top. In most areas you visit, the actual sales tax will be around 8% or 9%. In certain parts of the counties of Alameda and Los Angeles, actual sales tax is over 10%. In California, sales tax is levied on sales of nearly all tangible personal property. The main exceptions are regular groceries (including cold food-to-go) and prescription drugs. Hot prepared food is also usually taxed, with the exception of hot baked goods sold to go as standalone items. The state does not refund sales tax to travelers. The quintessential California souvenir depends a lot on which part of the state you visited, and what your interests are. The agricultural products change from citrus and avocadoes down south to strawberries in the middle, to almonds and wine as you move north. In LA, you might take home chocolates from See's Candies; in the Central Coast, keep an eye open for locally produced saltwater taffy; in the Bay Area, it's all about Ghirardelli Chocolate. Common themes for souvenir items include surfing, tie-dyed clothing, and redwood trees. ==Eat== {{See also|American cuisine|Fast food in the United States and Canada}} California doesn't have a single, well-defined cuisine of its own, but rather has a remarkably diverse food scene defined by its large population of immigrants of varied ethnic backgrounds and its access to one of the most productive agricultural regions on this side of the planet. The culinary style referred to as ''Californian cuisine'' or ''California fusion'' focuses on imaginative fusions of other cuisines, typically with heavy attention to presentation and an emphasis on using freshly prepared local ingredients, and has been somewhat subsumed into the general trend of "New American" cuisine. Even diners and small mom-and-pop fast food grills have elements of fusion cuisine, as it is common in California for them to serve both burgers and Mexican food. Californians take fresh food for granted. Most food you will eat in California was harvested within 300 miles (480 km) of your plate, with the exception of certain cereals and tropical crops. California is the leading global source of tree nuts (almonds, pistachios, walnuts) and also leads North America in the production of dairy products and many kinds of fruits and vegetables. Out-of-season crops are usually imported from South America, especially Chile and Brazil. With such a bounty for restaurants to draw upon, almost any dish you can imagine can be found somewhere in California. The cuisines of the Americas and Asia are heavily represented, and those of nearly every other country are also available to a lesser extent. More "North American" fare includes everything from burger shacks to vegetarian, organic and even completely vegan restaurants; the Californian love for food has made it one of the most diverse restaurant scenes in North America. The large cities have the most variety, while things get simpler and more meat-heavy as you get more rural. There are a handful of distinctive California dishes, although most of them have been adopted and adapted throughout the US. * Cobb salad – a cold salad of bacon or ham, chicken, boiled eggs, avocado, tomato, lettuce, and bleu cheese, with a vinaigrette dressing. Traditionally it's chopped fairly fine, but in modern times it's served in a variety of ways, and sometimes with ranch dressing instead of the traditional vinaigrette. It was invented at the Brown Derby restaurant in LA. * French dip sandwich – invented somewhere in LA, the exact location is subject to dispute, but it's a warm sandwich of thinly sliced roast beef on a roll that's dipped into beef broth. * Cioppino – a seafood stew developed by Italian immigrants in San Francisco, it resembles various Italian fish stews but includes local ingredients like chopped Dungeness crab. * The Mission Burrito – a San Francisco tradition characterized mainly by its great size and caloric content, featuring copious amounts of beans and rice in addition to cheese, meat and/or vegetables. * California Burrito – a San Diego specialty, it's a carne asada (spicy grilled steak) burrito, stuffed with french fries. * Santa Maria Barbeque – This is a central coast tradition. It's a bottom sirloin beef roast (the cut is locally known as tri-tip), where the fat hasn't been trimmed. It's suspended high above a hot oak fire, fat side up, so it cooks slowly and the fat melts and tenderizes the meat. It's usually served thinly sliced with tortillas or bread, salsa, onions, avocado, and other side dishes. *Chop Suey – the original "American Chinese" dish was popularized as cheap food for laborers during the California gold rush. While it's increasingly hard to find, many other American Chinese dishes were first created in San Francisco's Chinatown. Larger cities in California have some restaurants selling American Chinese food and others selling traditional Chinese dishes. In smaller cities, the Americanized version may be the only option on the menu. As a general rule, plain water is free at any restaurant. However, if you need a disposable cup, the cup will cost you 25 cents (by state law). You are allowed to bring your own reusable water cup or bottle. ===Regional chains=== California's classic burger chain '''In-N-Out''' has expanded to states as far east as [[Texas]]—see [[Fast food in the United States and Canada]] for more. Outside of fast food, California chains that you'll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere include: * {{eat | name=Ike's | alt= | url=https://www.ikessandwich.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-06-22 | content=Casual sandwich joint with more than 50 locations, mostly in California though a few are in Nevada. The menu varies by location, but in general about half the menu has meat and half is vegetarian; many vegetarian options can be made vegan. The sandwiches are filling and flavorful but not excessively heavy. }} *{{listing | name=Farmer Boys | alt= | url=https://www.farmerboys.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5435711 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=A farm-to-table restaurant chain featuring a burger shack menu that is freshly cooked from local produce. Hamburgers, sandwiches, and salads, plus diner-style breakfast options served all day. }} *{{listing | name=Lemonade | alt= | url=https://lemonadela.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=locations are mostly in Southern California, plus two in San Francisco | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$15 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=Poke bowls, chef bowls, sandwiches, and 10 different types of freshly made lemonade. This is California fusion food without the high-end budget. Take your friend who's always bored with the same-ol' stuff. Don't neglect the side dishes. Vegan options. }} ==Drink== Generally, alcohol is available in more places in California than it is in other states. A person with valid ID of age can purchase alcohol at supermarkets or liquor stores; these are regulated by the state but not owned or controlled by them. All but the smallest communities have restaurants or bars that sell beer. Some places are permitted to have a bar in one part of their establishment, and six-packs of beer for sale and offsite consumption in another part. California is known for its fine [[wine]]s and gourmet beers. As of March 2026, there are 154 established American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) across the state of California, which is the highest number of any state. [[Napa Valley|Napa]], [[Sonoma Valley|Sonoma]] and [[Mendocino County|Mendocino]] are premier wine districts north of San Francisco, but there are others in the Central Coast region ([[Paso Robles]], [[Solvang]]) and even down near [[Temecula]] where suitable microclimates have been found. The inland Central Valley region (especially near [[Lodi (California)|Lodi]]) has hotter summers and traditionally produced inexpensive bulk wines, but quality has been improving with winemaking innovations. For beer, California also has a lot of microbreweries. Sierra Nevada, in [[Chico (California)|Chico]], is one of the biggest microbreweries in North America. In the [[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] the mid-sized brewery Firestone Walker in Paso Robles is a good addition to the local wineries in the area; [[Ventura]] has had several microbreweries over the years. In [[San Diego]], Stone Brewing Company offers a great variety of beers that can be purchased throughout the state. Los Angeles has several microbreweries, especially in the Arts District. There are over 200 microbreweries in California, and many bars in large- and mid-size cities that have 20 or more beers (often both foreign and domestic and ranging from light beer to flavored stouts) on tap. In addition to microbreweries, there are a handful of distilleries in California; one even makes date vodka. === Legal issues === Californians tend to view wine as a natural accompaniment of food or socializing, overlooking its alcoholic content more easily than with distilled spirits. However police crackdowns on drinking and driving are noticeable, with roadblocks and random checks. Conviction for driving with a blood alcohol level over .08 percent is likely to bring serious legal and financial consequences. Drivers with a lower blood alcohol can still be convicted for '''DUI''' (driving under the influence) if they fail field sobriety tests, such as walking a straight line. You must be 21 years of age to buy or drink any alcoholic beverage. Underage drinking is taken very seriously, so if you want a drink and appear to be under 30, you should be ready to present identification showing your age. The only acceptable proof-of-age documents are [[passports]] from any country, and identity documents issued by US government agencies (e.g., drivers' licenses issued by any US state). Foreign drivers' licenses and foreign identity cards are ''not'' legally acceptable as proof-of-age documentation, and people who are unable to produce a passport or valid United States ID will be refused service. Only original identity documents will be accepted; photographs or photocopies will not be accepted. ==Stay healthy== ===Air pollution=== While [[air pollution]] levels have dropped dramatically since the 1970s, more than ninety percent of Californians live in counties with unhealthy air. Visitors to the mountains or the rural regions of Northern California will have nothing to worry about, but the overreliance on cars, low rainfall, and surrounding mountains in Los Angeles, the Central Valley, and the Bay Area create some of America's worst air quality. It gets particularly bad when a layer of cold air gets "trapped" by a layer of warmer air above it ("inversion") which is particularly likely in basins. While air quality is rarely at levels that would be considered immediately dangerous, visitors should heed alerts and be especially cautious when any local wildfires are burning. Occasionally, there will be an '''advisory''' issued for air stagnation, which is a phenomenon involving an air mass that cannot move and therefore stagnates over an area for an extensive period of time. Air pollutants can cause breathing difficulties for those with existing respiratory conditions. If you have a respiratory condition, refer to the '''[https://airquality.weather.gov/ National Weather Service]''' website on air quality to see if any such advisories have been issued for the areas you might visit. ===Disease=== [[File:MOUSE, CALIFORNIA (peromyscus californicus) (5-29-09) cerro alto campground road, slo co, ca -01 (3577515146).jpg|alt=California deermouse|thumb|This cute, large-eared mouse and its tan-colored siblings can carry a deadly virus.]] Deer mice can transmit a virus that causes '''hantaviral pulmonary syndrome'''. You are most likely to get infected if you breathe in dust containing their excrement (feces, urine, and saliva). Realistically, however, hantavirus is of very little concern to the traveler, as only a few people get infected each year, and most of them are exposed on the job, but sensible precautions should be applied. Do '''not''' venture in any wild animal's den or touch deer mice or their excrement. If you need to clean up after rodents, wear waterproof gloves, eye protection, and a high-quality respirator mask, and use disinfectants and wet-mopping techniques, rather than brooms and vacuums (both of which spread virus-laden dust). If you do get infected, treatment usually involves a week or two in the hospital. The main defense against the virus is prevention. ==Stay safe== [[File:Elephant seals fighting.jpg|thumb|Elephant seals fighting, [[San Simeon]]]] ===California–Mexico border=== Due to California's proximity to the international boundary with Mexico, visitors should be cautious while in areas near the border. * Beware Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) checkpoints and patrols. CBP is legally allowed to stop you or your vehicle solely in order to inquire about your citizenship and residency status within 100 miles (160 km) of any international border (in this instance, the US–Mexico border). ''Non-whites, and especially Latinos, should expect to be profiled, targeted, and harassed by these government agents.'' *Know where you are at all times. Follow good safety procedures and use common sense when making decisions. * Do not pick up [[Hitchhiking|hitchhikers]]. If the person is undocumented or carrying drugs, you could be mistaken for a trafficker. * Keep valuables, including spare change, out of sight and lock your vehicle. * Avoid traveling in well-marked but unofficial "trails." * Avoid hiking or camping in areas of major border activity. If you are visiting a national or state park, consult park staff to help plan backcountry travel in safer areas. ====Crossing the border==== Thousands of U.S citizens visit the state of [[Baja California (state)|Baja California, Mexico]] from California every year, with the majority of travelers returning from an enjoyable experience. However, a minority of travelers do experience difficulties and serious inconveniences while traveling to Mexico. Before traveling to Mexico, ensure that you have the proper documentation and are familiar with the recommendations for foreign travel from the '''[https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Mexico.html U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs]''' There are six border crossings between California and Mexico: two between San Diego and [[Tijuana]], one between [[Tecate]] and Tecate, two between [[Calexico]] and [[Mexicali]], and one between Andrade and [[Los Algodones]]. The United States operates a consulate-general in Tijuana and a consulate in Mexicali. Mexico operates Consulates in Calexico, Fresno, Los Angeles, Oxnard, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose and Santa Ana. ===Crime=== The usual inner city crime can be found in the worst parts of [[Los Angeles]], [[San Francisco]], and [[Oakland]]. Central Valley cities, such as [[Sacramento]], [[Stockton (California)|Stockton]], and [[Fresno]] also have gang problems. Northern coastal cities such as [[Eureka]] have an ongoing problem with significant drug activity and property crimes. However, most California cities are safe. As long as you take basic precautions against petty crime, such as keeping your phone and other valuables out of sight in tourist areas, and stay out of obviously run-down neighborhoods, you will probably have a safe and pleasant visit. If you are traveling along the '''Pacific Coast Highway''' or '''Highway 101''', you may notice there are a substantial number of hitch-hikers along the way. Most are harmless youthful travelers or people who just need to get somewhere for lack of other means, while others may be a bit less safe to pick up. Use your best judgement, and, unless you feel confident in the people to whom you're giving a ride, it's probably better not to offer one while you're travelling alone. '''Drugs''' are illegal in California, with the noted exception of '''[[cannabis|marijuana]]'''. Adults 21 and over are allowed to possess, use, and cultivate small amounts of marijuana, so long as it is not consumed in public or possessed on the grounds of a school or day care center. The maximum amount a person may possess is one ounce of marijuana or 8 grams of concentrates. Some dispensaries sell marijuana products to the general public, although others remain restricted to those who have a medical marijuana recommendation from a doctor. Delivery services are also available. Marijuana is still illegal under federal law, so do not carry marijuana across state lines—even to another state where it is legal—as this will be considered drug trafficking and subject to harsh punishment. Also, do not take marijuana onto federal land, including any of the dozens of national parks and national forests in California, or onto flights even within California, as the TSA is a federal agency. If you find yourself in an emergency situation (of any kind), dial '''9-1-1''' on your phone or from any (available) phone. It is a free call from a payphone. ===Earthquakes=== {{Infobox|Earthquake early warnings|Since 2019, California has rolled out an earthquake early warning system called [https://www.shakealert.org/ '''ShakeAlert'''], whose alerts can be received by most smartphones. There are [https://earthquake.ca.gov/get-alerts/ '''various methods'''] that mobile devices can receive alerts for ''imminent'' shaking: * '''Wireless Emergency Alerts''' (WEAs) are sent to capable mobile devices with cellular reception that have ''not'' opted out from receiving emergency alerts. They will appear as an urgent notification with brief instructions to safety coupled with an attention-grabbing sound. * '''Earthquake early warning mobile apps''' can push live notifications to devices when the warning system detects an occurring quake. Such apps typically require enabling '''active location services''' to determine if the device is located inside the area of possible impact. The United States Geological Survey provides [https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/how-do-i-sign-shakealertr-earthquake-early-warning-system '''information about apps for iOS and Android that utilize the ShakeAlert system.'''] * '''Many newer Android devices''' can receive earthquake alerts natively without needing to download an app. This system also requires '''enabling location services''' to determine if it's located in the impacted zone. These alerts will appear either as a notification bar for weak quakes or a full-screen alert for strong quakes with instructions to '''drop, cover, and hold'''. Wireless Emergency Alerts are sent for earthquake events exceeding magnitude 5.0 ''and'' in areas expected to receive shaking intensity of light (Mercalli intensity IV) or greater. For Android alerts, expect to receive them for events exceeding magnitude 4.5 ''and'' in areas where weak shaking (Mercalli intensity III) or stronger is expected. Mobile apps may provide options to customize the threshold of intensity to receive an alert. Warning times are limited to '''seconds''' before the arrival of shaking, and will vary depending on the distance from the epicenter. If you are located at or near the epicenter, you may receive an alert ''during or after'' shaking arrives! Warning times tend to improve the further you are from the epicenter – up to tens of seconds of warning even at a far distance.}} [[Earthquakes]] that are large enough to cause extensive damage are rare, but remain a matter of reality for the state. Most earthquakes are mild and last for a couple of seconds. You're not likely to encounter one during your trip, but if you do, you'll probably go home with nothing more exciting than a story about it being over before you figured out that it was an earthquake. When you feel the shaking, act quickly to '''drop, cover, and hold on'''. The biggest dangers in an earthquake are falling objects (such as books or bottles flying off shelves – or the whole shelf with all of its contents, if it's not properly mounted) and windows, which may shatter explosively. In the event of an earthquake, '''face away from windows''' and '''hide under any sturdy table or desk''' – and then hold on to that table, because the shaking could cause the table to slide across the floor. Contrary to popular belief, do not stand in a door frame; these are structurally weaker spots in modern buildings, and they provide no protection against falling objects. If you are indoors, '''do not run outside!''' Falling building facades are more likely to cause severe injuries than anything inside. If outdoors, stay away from buildings (especially brick chimneys, which may spray bricks around a large area), and stay out from under power lines. If you are driving, your first thought will probably be that something is wrong with your car. Immediately slow down and then stop at the nearest safe place. When the shaking is over (the ground ''and'' your nerves), it's okay to start driving again, but drive cautiously, as traffic signals will likely be out, the road surface may be cracked, other drivers may be panicking, and there may be trees or damaged vehicles blocking the road ahead. ===Deserts=== Along the southern most border of California-Nevada, as well as the border of California-Arizona, California has elaborate desert landscapes which extend into the south central regions of the state, the most famous (or infamous) being the region known as [[Death Valley]], where several tourists and hikers have indeed met their fate while exploring the region. If you are planning on traveling or hiking into these locations, '''follow desert survival guidelines'''. Be sure to take plenty of water (at least one gallon/four litres per person, per day), sunscreen and wear light clothing. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Be sure to have a full tank of gasoline prior to traveling by car into these regions, as many desert locations are extremely remote and without any services for several miles (in some cases nearly 100 miles / 160 km). To break down in these regions could be extremely unpleasant in the best case scenario, tragic in the worst. Also, it is best to hike during the earlier part of the day, as thunderstorms tend to develop suddenly during the afternoon. In the event you encounter inclement weather conditions, seek high ground immediately! Thunderstorms can cause flash flooding in canyons and other low-lying areas. ===Tsunamis=== The incidence of earthquakes in California raises the concern for potential threats of tsunamis. Though tsunamis occur very rarely, a great deal of California's coastline is in a tsunami zone. For more information on the state's hazard assessment, visit the '''[https://nctr.pmel.noaa.gov/state/wa/index.html NOAA Center for Tsunami Research]''' website. ===Wildfires=== [[Wildfires]] are common between May and October, but can also occur at other times. Precautions include the following: clear the area around campfires in campgrounds, never leave flames unattended (even artificial ones), do not throw cigarette ends out of a car, and avoid unnecessary weapon use in dry areas.<!-- My understanding of laws in California is that the latter is illegal anyway. --> The strongest impact from fires is smoke. Smoke affects areas dramatically exceeding the size of the root fire. Travelers with respiratory issues should consult visitor information sites before visiting areas where fires are occurring, or anywhere in the path of the smoke, which can spread across large portions of the state during the worst wildfires. ===Mudslides=== Fire season is followed by the rainy season, and hilly areas where the vegetation has burned are particularly vulnerable to destructive and sometimes deadly mudslides. Heed any evacuation warnings that are issued. ===Wild animals=== '''[[Bears]]''' are found in the Sierra Nevada and all neighboring parts of the state. They're rarely dangerous, but should never be approached. If you are camping, you need to ensure that food, food waste, and other scented items such as soap and toothpaste are secure from them. '''[[Mountain lions]]''' are rarely seen, but live in all mountainous parts of the state and once in a while attack humans. If you see one, yell and wave your arms to make yourself appear as large as possible. '''Coyotes''' are quite common, even in relatively populated areas like the Hollywood Hills. They pose little danger to humans, but will attack dogs, cats and other domestic animals. Many animals, most notoriously bats, can carry rabies. When hiking, watch for [[ticks]], which can carry Lyme disease, and [[rattlesnakes]]. California is home to 2 potentially deadly species of spiders - the black widow and the brown recluse - if you don't go poking around abandoned structures and woodpiles, you're very unlikely to encounter them. If you're bitten by any animal, seek immediate medical attention. Shark attacks have happened once in a great while at California beaches, and deadly sharks such as great whites do roam the California coast, but unless a shark has been repeatedly sighted by a specific beach (the local media will broadcast warnings) this is an extremely remote possibility. ===Poisonous plants and mushrooms=== '''[[Poison oak]]''' can be found almost anywhere in the state, but is particularly common in Southern California, the Central Coast, the Bay Area, and any Coast Redwood woodlands. It's toxic throughout the year, even during the winter when it's lost its leaves. Sensitivity varies by individual, but many people can end up with a very nasty, blistering rash by contacting it. See the linked article for treatment options. California is also home to several '''lethal''' varieties of '''mushrooms''', which can be particularly dangerous to would-be gatherers because some of them resemble edible varieties found elsewhere in the world. Even if you're an expert on mushroom varieties where you live, don't assume you're safe gathering them in California. The poisonous oleander plant is native to California, and the ''Ricinus'' aka castor bean plant, which is the source of ricin and castor oil, is common there. ==Respect== California is filled with a very diverse group of people. Northern and Southern California have notably different cultures, while the rural areas in the Central Valley and Eastern portions of the state differ even more significantly. Sensitive topics include immigration, water rights, and land-use. Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area are especially well known for being some of the most politically liberal areas in the US, and continue to serve as some of the world's major centers of counterculture. Conversely, parts of California, particularly the Central Valley and most areas north of Sacramento, are conservative. However, don't assume any individual's political leaning based on where they live. * California's delicate ecosystem demands our utmost care. Conserving water, adhering to fire safety guidelines, and respecting wildlife habitats are fundamental. * Staying informed about the state's water crisis and adopting water-saving habits is crucial for preserving this precious resource. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== Many countries have consulates in and around [[Los Angeles#Consulates|Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco#Consulates|San Francisco]], with a much smaller number in [[San Bernardino#Consulates|San Bernardino]], [[San Diego#Consulates|San Diego]], and [[Sacramento#Consulates|Sacramento]]. In addition to the above, Mexico has consulates in Calexico, Oxnard, San Jose, Santa Ana, and Fresno. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are only available in the country's language. Some websites are available only in another language. ==See also== The following are additional Wikivoyage articles regarding the history and itineraries for travel within California. The articles also list places of historical or natural significance along the way: {{See also|North America itineraries}} * '''[[El Camino Real]]''' (''The Royal Road'') is a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of California. Stretching over 600 miles (1000 km) from San Diego in the south to Sonoma in the north, the route traverses much of the state and has been a popular traveler itinerary for California motorists for nearly a century. :* The '''[[Pacific Coast Highway]]''' is officially California State Route 1 (CA-1) is one of California's slower state routes, closely following the coastline, which in many places is dominated by cliffs and mountains. The alternatives, including '''[[U.S._Highway_101#California|US-101]]''' and '''[[Interstate 5#California|Interstate 5]]''' (with CA-1 sometimes concurrent with US-101), are for those who want to travel more quickly, while CA-1 is the best route for sightseeing California's beautiful coast. El Camino Real lines is best accessed from US Highway 101 and the Pacific Highway (CA-1) between San Diego and Sonoma. * '''[[Arroyo del Valle Trail]]''' is south of the city of Livermore, which is in the Bay Area region of California. The Arroyo Del Valle trail is part of a longer trail network that extends from Livermore, California, through the Diablo Range to Fremont, California at Mission Peak Regional Park. It's about 30 mi (48 km) in all and later parts of the trail network are quite remote, but the part described in this article is used by the general public more frequently than the rest of the hike due to its proximity to the cities of the Tri-Valley. * '''[[East Shore Trail]]''' goes from the northern staging area to the southeast staging area at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore, California. It is approximately 7 miles (11 km) long, with optional extensions at each end. * The '''[[Fiction tourism|Fictional tourism article]]''' aims at locations around the world famous from literature, motion pictures, television series, video games, comic books and other media. Numerous movies and television shows, such as [[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]], [[Terminator tourism|Terminator]], [[Cocoa Beach#Lori Wilson Park|I Dream of Jeannie]], [[Studio City#Brady Residence|Brady Bunch]], etc. have been filmed in Southern California which also served as a backdrop for many of these same films. [[Universal Studios Hollywood|Universal Studios]] even have a theme park to allow the public to get an up close tour of their production studios. * The '''[[Iron Horse Regional Trail]]''' is a biking and walking trail in the East Bay. Formerly a railroad for transporting fruit and grain, it's now a 32-mile (51-kilometer) paved "rail trail" through Concord, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Danville, San Ramon, Dublin, and Pleasanton. * The '''[[Ohlone Wilderness Trail]]''' is a hiking route in the East Bay. It goes from Livermore to Fremont in California across numerous mountain ranges and canyons, and is by no means an easy hike. * California has several dozen state parks that focus on historic locations. The '''[[Olompali–Petaluma–Sonoma historic parks]]''' just north of the San Francisco Bay have significant connections to the rancho era of Mexican Republic. This itinerary will take you through these three state historic parks in a day trip from the Bay area. Each is near a different city in California Wine Country. * The '''[[San Francisco Crosstown Trail]]''' crosses [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco]] from its northwestern edge at Lands End to its southeastern corner at Candlestick Point. Designed by a group of local volunteers, the route connects various hiking paths in local parks with sidewalks and staircases in residential neighborhoods to create a continuous 17-mile (27-km) trail. See also the [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco article]] for a list of in-city itineraries. ==Go next== * '''[[Arizona]]''' – Home to the [[Grand Canyon]], Arizona borders California to the southeast across the Colorado River. * '''[[Nevada]]''' – California's eastern neighbor is best known as the home of [[Las Vegas]], although towns such as [[Reno]] and [[Carson City]] are also good day-trip opportunities for visitors wanting to explore the Silver State. * '''[[Oregon]]''' – Sharing a border to the north, Oregon is home to impressive mountains and extensive forests. * '''[[Hawaii]]''' – Many visitors to America's fiftieth state depart through California on their journey across the Pacific, but it is not a neighboring state and requires a 5-hour flight to get there. * '''[[Baja California]]''' – Those traveling across the border to [[Mexico]] can visit some of that country's most impressive sea and landscapes. [[Tijuana]], [[Ensenada]] and [[Mexicali]] are also good day-trip options for visitors staying in Southern California to explore another country without going to far. {{usableregion}} {{isPartOf|United States}} {{geo|37|-119.5|zoom=6}} {{related|Off-road_vehicles_in_California}} {{related|California_desert_camping}} 5bwoxc9rbqb2akjl90rn34xduvv49ud 5288920 5288919 2026-06-06T17:35:42Z Anyone150 1516949 /* Itineraries */ 5288920 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Antelope Valley banner.jpg|caption=California Poppy Preserve in the Antelope Valley}} One of the most diverse states in the [[United States of America|Union]], '''California''' has a culture ranging from the easygoing surf spots on the beaches of [[Southern California]] to the glamor of [[Hollywood]], and the counterculture and thriving businesses of the [[Bay Area]]. The state, which is on the [[West Coast (United States)|west coast of the U.S.]], also varies greatly in natural beauty, from redwood forests on the [[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] to the ski resorts of the rugged [[Sierra Nevada]] mountains and the harsh desert of [[Death Valley]]. The largest state in the U.S. by population and the third largest by area, California boasts world-famous attractions and sights: [[Disneyland]], the [[Golden Gate Bridge]], the [[Napa Valley]] wine country, and the tallest mountain in the [[United States of America#Geography|contiguous United States]], [[Mount Whitney]]. Granted statehood in 1850 following the California Gold Rush, it bears the nickname "the '''Golden State'''", and the sites of the former goldfields are known as the [[Gold Country]]. ==Regions== California is geographically varied, ranging from warm beaches to snowy mountains to fertile farmland to extreme desert. In the middle of the state is the farmland of the Central Valley, which provides produce to the whole country. The conventional wisdom is that there is a huge difference—and also rivalry—between the Southern California area around Los Angeles (or as Californians often say, “LA”) and Northern California centered around the San Francisco Bay Area. There is also a cultural clash between the large liberal coastal cities, and more conservative parts of the state such as Orange County, the Central Valley, and the far northeast part of the state. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Ca-regions.png | regionmapsize=480px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] | region1color=#b2b24d | region1description=Home to the world's tallest trees, the coast redwoods, as well as rugged coastlines and remote nature adventures. | region2name=[[Shasta Cascades]] | region2color=#c375a0 | region2description=Lakes and mountains off the beaten path in the state's northeast corner. | region3name=[[Sacramento Valley]] | region3color=#5bc7c0 | region3description=Home of [[Sacramento]], the state capital, and the urban areas around the city. | region4name=[[Gold Country]] | region4color=#d2d20d | region4description=Historic foothills leading east to the Sierras; the 1848 discovery of gold in this region brought many Americans to California and helped California become a state less than five years after the territory had been acquired. | region5name=[[Sierra Nevada]] | region5color=#5ea54a | region5description=California's alpine and skiing region, including [[Yosemite National Park]] and [[Lake Tahoe]]. | region6name=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]] | region6color=#d06666 | region6description=Home to the cities of [[San Francisco]], [[Oakland]], and [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]], as well as the technology-centered [[Silicon Valley]] and sophisticated [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. | region7name=[[San Joaquin Valley]] | region7color=#a0a0c0 | region7description=Breadbasket of California and home to a large percentage of America's fruit and vegetable supply. | region8name=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] | region8color=#5fb388 | region8description=An isolated stretch of land that features cool mountains and a rugged coastline. | region9name=[[Southern California]] | region9color=#ac663d | region9description=Home to the metropolis of [[Los Angeles]], as well as [[San Diego]], [[Disneyland]], [[Hollywood]], and miles of famous beaches. | region10name=[[Desert (California)|Desert]] | region10color=#d5a90b | region10description=Palm trees, Joshua trees, blazing sun, ghost towns and quirky resorts. Miles of [[Route 66]]. Home of [[Death Valley National Park|Death Valley]] and [[Joshua Tree National Park]]s. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b2b24d|title=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]]|wikidata=Q156186,Q109651,Q108087,Q156361}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c375a0|title=[[Shasta Cascades]]|wikidata=Q156374,Q156188,Q156350,Q109695,Q156340,Q109705,Q156342,Q156181}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5bc7c0|title=[[Sacramento Valley]]|wikidata=Q271601,Q271609,Q156377,Q196014,Q109709,Q108131}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d2d20d|title=[[Gold Country]]|wikidata=Q156370,Q109681,Q156353,Q156177,Q108093,Q271613,Q156346,Q156191}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5ea54a|title=[[Sierra Nevada]]|wikidata=Q108077,Q156366}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d06666|title=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]]|wikidata=Q108117,Q108067,Q108137,Q108083,Q108058,Q107146,Q62,Q108101,Q108122,Q110739}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a0a0c0|title=[[San Joaquin Valley]]|wikidata=Q108499,Q108503,Q109690,Q109661,Q271915,Q156358,Q109686,Q108047}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5fb388|title=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]]|wikidata=Q108072,Q109656,Q49014,Q108106,Q108127}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#ac663d|title=[[Southern California]] and [[Desert (California)|Desert]]|wikidata=Q104994,Q5925,Q108143,Q169952,Q108111,Q108053,Q109670}} ==Cities== [[File:San Francisco with approaching fog.jpg|thumb|400px|San Francisco, partly enshrouded in fog]] {{mapframe}} Here are a few of California's most notable cities, listed from north to south. <!--Please note: This is just a sampler of the cities most visited, with some geographic spread. If you want to add a new city, please locate the correct sub-region article that your city resides in and add the city there instead. --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Eureka]]|url=|lat=40.801944|long=-124.163611|wikidata=Q488702}} – former logging town with charming Victorian city center, waterfront trails, and Redwood Sky Walk featuring the world's tallest tree species. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Redding]]|url=|lat=40.576667|long=-122.370278|wikidata=Q495361}} – Sundial Bridge and gateway to a plethora of outdoor adventures ranging from underground caverns to some of the highest volcanic peaks in the United States. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Sacramento]]|url=|lat=38.555556|long=-121.468889|wikidata=Q18013}} – the laid-back state capital with historic Gold Rush-era quarter of the city, Old Sacramento. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Francisco]]|url=|lat=37.7857 |long=-122.4061 |wikidata=Q62}} – Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, America's largest Chinatown, cable cars, and Victorian houses. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Jose (California)|San Jose]]|url=|lat=37.333333|long=-121.9|wikidata=Q16553}} – south of San Francisco, this city is the center of Silicon Valley, and is home to many technology companies and the (in)famous Winchester Mystery House. *{{marker|type=city| name=[[Santa Barbara]] | lat=34.421 | long=-119.698| wikidata=Q159288}} – city on a south-facing coast which styles itself, with some justification, as "the American Riviera." *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Los Angeles]]|url=|lat=34.05|long=-118.25|wikidata=Q65}} – the state's largest city, and 2nd-largest in the nation. L.A. is home to Hollywood, Venice, The Getty Center, and Griffith Park. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Palm Springs]]|url=|lat=33.830278|long=-116.545278|wikidata=Q488004}} – desert recreation with golf, spas, resorts, casinos, and the famous aerial tramway. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Diego]]|url=| lat=32.7157 | long=-117.1547 ||wikidata=Q16552}} – Balboa Park, Old Town, SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, and nearby Tijuana, Mexico. ==Other destinations== [[File:4076-joshua-tree RJ.JPG|thumb|[[Joshua Tree National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Big Sur]]|lat=36.27028|long=-121.80750|wikidata=Q859413}} can be loosely defined as the stretch of coastline between Carmel and San Simeon, and the steep cliffs, rocky coast, churning waves, abundant wildlife, redwoods, and remoteness make it a stunningly beautiful drive. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Death Valley|Death Valley National Park]]|lat=36.45|long=-117.09|wikidata=Q242111}} – a place of legend and a place of trial. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Disneyland]]|lat=33.8091|long=-117.9190|wikidata=Q1229066}} – this world-famous amusement park opened its doors in 1955 and today draws around 16 million yearly visitors. The California Adventure theme park was added in 2001 and provides attractions inspired by the state's scenery and movie industry. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Joshua Tree National Park]]|lat=33.86|long=-115.89|wikidata=Q735202}} – combines two different desert ecosystems anchored by the peculiar-looking namesake tree species. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Tahoe]]|lat=39.091667|long=-120.041667|wikidata=Q169962}} – a deep blue mountain lake, popular for water sports in the summer and skiing in the winter. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Napa Valley]]|lat=38.50|long=-122.32|wikidata=Q1151105}} – the premier wine region of the United States, with spas, wine tasting and wine tours; the historic heart of [[California Wine Country]]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]|lat=36.56472|long=-118.77337}} – these twin parks hold monuments to nature's size, beauty, and diversity, including the largest tree on Earth, the General Sherman Tree. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Yosemite National Park]]|lat=37.7333|long=-119.5500|wikidata=Q180402}} – one of the first wilderness parks in the United States, the site of natural wonders such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and numerous waterfalls. California also has [[California state parks|many state parks]], approximately half of which are near urban centers. This is in addition to the state's eight [[United States national parks#California|national parks]] found across the state. ==Understand== [[File:Mission Santa Clara.jpg|thumb|Mission [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]]]] ===History=== {{see also|Indigenous cultures of North America|Old West}} Human settlement in California goes back 50,000 years; California was home to 30 different tribal groups prior to the arrival of European explorers in the 1500s and now over 120 tribes are left. The first Europeans to discover what is now California were the Spanish and Portuguese. Spanish colonialism was established through '''[[El Camino Real|twenty-one missions]]''' built throughout California by the late 1700s. These missions still survive today, stretching from [[San Diego]] on the Mexican border to [[Sonoma]] in the northern San Francisco Bay Area. After the Mexican War for Independence in 1821, California became a part of [[Mexico]] for 25 years until 1846, when many of its residents declared a sovereign nation (the '''California Republic''', also called the ''Bear Flag Republic'') before it was annexed by the United States in 1846, and has since then had an image as the "land of opportunity" and the final destination of luck-seekers. The 1848 discovery of gold in the Sierra Nevada mountains kicked off the '''California Gold Rush''', and California's non-native population surged from 15,000 to over 300,000 within two years. People who moved to California during the Gold rush were often called "49ers", a term that was adopted as the name for the San Francisco [[American Football|football]] team. California became a state in 1850, and its population has increased steadily since then. [[Los Angeles]], a city which once boasted one of the longest streetcar networks in the world, boomed through defense contractors and later converted to a "freeway" city after the streetcars were dismantled. The city hosted Olympic Games twice (1932 & 1984) at times when the Olympic movement was in crisis and the games were largely seen as successes for the city as well as the Olympic movement. [[Post-war United States|In the post-war years]], California (especially the [[Bay Area]]) became a hotspot of counterculture, including popular music, the anti-war movement, and the LGBT community. Since the late 20th century, the state and in particular, the Bay Area, has been at the forefront of the Digital Revolution, with innovations such as personal computers and smartphones having been introduced through '''Silicon Valley'''. Today California is the most populous state in the US with over 38 million residents. Taken by itself, California would rank as one of the world's top ten economies and Californian places like Silicon Valley, Hollywood and San Francisco are known globally and have shaped not only American but world culture. Politically, California is seen as a solidly "blue" state: it has a two-thirds majority of Democrats in both chambers of the legislature and often provides the Democratic party with particularly left-wing ideas, especially on social issues. That said, the state actually contains a lot of political diversity, with conservative views prevalent in much of the state outside the densely populated Bay Area and Los Angeles County, particularly in the fertile but relatively sparsely populated [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. ===Landscape=== [[File:Giant sequoias in Sequoia National Park 2013.jpg|thumb|Sequoia National Park]] With over 160,000 square miles (411,000 km²), the landscape of California is vast and varied, and the stereotypical beach paradise is only the tip of the iceberg. The state contains extremes in elevation, with [[Mount Whitney]] at 14,505 ft (4,421 m) being the tallest mountain in the [[lower 48]] states, while less than 200 miles (320 km) away [[Death Valley]], at 282 ft (82 m) below sea level, is North America's lowest point. California's border to the west is made up of a rugged coastline along the Pacific Ocean. The coastal mountains rise up from the ocean and are home to redwood trees in their northern half. Moving eastward, the Central Valley bisects California from north-to-south, before giving way to the Sierra Nevada mountains, which are home to [[Yosemite National Park]], [[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]], and other natural wonders. The southeastern part of California is dominated by desert, which covers 25% of California's total area. The [[Mojave Desert|Mojave]] is a high desert, with elevations ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 ft (1,000 to 2,000 m) above sea level. This area receives less than six inches (152 mm) of rain each year. ===Climate=== [[File:Surfers At Steamer Lane Santa Cruz CA. - panoramio.jpg|alt=Surfers on the water|thumb|Wetsuits were invented in Santa Cruz because the ocean is so cold.]] The state's climate varies from subtropical at the coast to the brutal winters of the mountains to one of the world's hottest regions in the deserts. Rainfall is more common in the northern part of the state than in the south, and snow is rare except in the mountains. Most precipitation occurs during winter, but California experiences frequent droughts. This has prompted people to install drought-resistant landscaping. In some years, farms lie fallow due to lack of water for irrigation. The hottest temperature ever recorded in the Western Hemisphere, 134°F (56.6°C) was at Death Valley in 1913, and temperatures here regularly exceed 120°F (50°C) during the summer. In contrast, winter temperatures in the mountains can drop below 0°F (-20°C). In between these extremes there are great local variations in climate due to topography and the influence of the Pacific Ocean upon precipitation and temperature, with temperatures becoming increasingly moderated nearer the coastline. For swimming, the Pacific Ocean can be surprisingly cold even in July due to currents. September and October are the best months for swimming. Another surprise in coastal areas is the presence of cool temperatures and fog in the mornings through most of the year. To experience California as a sunny place, plan to sleep late. ===People=== California is a very diverse state with many ethnic groups. California has large populations of people of varied backgrounds such as Mexican, Salvadoran, Guatemalan, Armenian, Iranian, Jewish, Chinese, Russian, Filipino, Eastern Indian, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Thai, and Hmong. California also has large populations of African Americans and Native Americans. Although typically considered to be a liberal state, Californians have a wide variety of political views which tend to vary based on region. The Central Valley, [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]], San Diego, and Palm Springs area tend to be more conservative, while [[Los Angeles County]] and the [[Bay Area|San Francisco Bay Area]] are among the most progressive areas in the country. California is a large and diverse state, with different cultures in each region. ===Holidays=== California observes all the [[Holidays of the United States|federal holidays]], except Columbus Day, and adds Farmworkers Day on March 31st (or nearest weekday). However, some cities such as [[Coronado (California)|Coronado]] that have a large population of federal workers or military personnel do observe Columbus Day. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitcalifornia.com/ Visit California] website ==Talk== [[File:Golden Hour at Emerald Bay.jpg|thumb|Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe]] Although the California Constitution states that '''English''' is the official language of the state of California, in reality, California is a multilingual state. American English is the main language and '''[[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]''' is the ''de facto'' second language, and a knowledge of even rudimentary Spanish is useful in most cities from Sacramento to San Diego. Los Angeles has some of the largest Hispanic populations north of Mexico. The state is highly influenced by Spanish culture due to its history, and it is not uncommon to see store and street signs written in both English and Spanish. "Spanglish" (a mixture of English and Spanish) is often used and heard throughout the state. Even people with no Latino heritage whatsoever sometimes speak fluent Spanish or use common Spanish-derived expressions when speaking English. Most government offices and tourist attractions, as well as many businesses in California have at least a few employees who are bilingual in English and Spanish. In fact, some restaurants may have a workforce that is more fluent in Spanish than English. Due to a history of Asian immigration and influence, Asian languages such as Cantonese, Mandarin, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, and Hindi are also spoken among Asian Californian populations. The major cities also tend to have communities of essentially any ethnicity imaginable, and there is a good chance you can hear their language and have an opportunity to experience their cultures. San Francisco, for example, is home to a significant French community, while Los Angeles boasts quite a large Ethiopian neighborhood. ==Get in== [[File:Skyscraper Los Angeles Downtown 2013.jpg|thumb|Skyscrapers in Downtown L.A.]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Flying in the United States}} [[San Francisco International Airport]] ({{IATA|SFO}}) and [[Los Angeles International Airport]] ({{IATA|LAX}}) are the most popular entry points with a wide variety of flights from [[Europe]], [[East Asia]], [[India]], [[Oceania]] ([[Australia]], [[Fiji]], [[New Zealand]], [[Tahiti]], etc.), [[Latin America]] and from various cities in the U.S. on a variety of U.S. and foreign flag carriers. To a lesser extent there are also direct flights from the [[Middle East]] ([[Israel]], [[Qatar]], [[Saudi Arabia]], [[Turkey]] and the [[United Arab Emriates]]) to Los Angeles. They are however also the most crowded and the SFO-LAX route is one of the busiest air corridors in the world causing frequent delays due to congestion. Delays at San Francisco airport due to fog are also somewhat common. If coming from within the U.S. and from Mexico there are other alternate airports in California that are less crowded and may be closer to your final destination. They are: :* Los Angeles area – [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Hollywood-Burbank Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]] (closest to Hollywood and Downtown Los Angeles), [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa_Ana_(California)|Orange County]] (closest to Disneyland & Knott's Berry Farm), [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario International Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}) in Ontario (closest to Joshua Tree and the Inland Empire deserts), and [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach Airport] ({{IATA|LGB}}) in [[Long Beach]]. :* San Francisco Bay Area – [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport] ({{IATA|OAK}}) in Oakland (closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose Airport] ({{IATA|SJC}}) in San Jose (closest to Silicon Valley), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] ({{IATA|STS}}) in [[Santa Rosa (California)|Santa Rosa]] (closest to Wine Country). Both San Francisco and Oakland airports are now connected to the local metro network, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a bus route 10 to the 'Santa Clara Station'. :* [[San Diego International Airport]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) in San Diego :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento Airport]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) in Sacramento :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno Airport]] ({{IATA|RNO}}) in [[Reno]], Nevada is closer to [[Lake Tahoe]] than from Sacramento. :* [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno Airport] ({{IATA|FAT}}) in Fresno, closest to Yosemite NP and the major airport in the [[San Joaquin Valley]]. :* Palm Springs ({{IATA|PSP}}) :* Central Coast – Monterey ({{IATA|MRY}}) (closest to Big Sur), San Luis Obispo ({{IATA|SBP}}) (closest to Hearst Castle), and Santa Barbara ({{IATA|SBA}}). :* [[Harry_Reid_International_Airport|Las Vegas]] ({{IATA|LAS}}), Nevada is closer to Death Valley NP than from Los Angeles or Ontario. :* [[Tijuana#By plane|Tijuana Airport]] ({{IATA|TIJ}}) in Tijuana. If coming from Mexico it may be more advantageous to fly to Tijuana on a (Mexican) domestic flight and then cross into San Diego by ground transportation or through its second terminal (CBX) on the American side of the border than on an international flight to San Diego, Los Angeles, or other cities further north. From San Diego, you can continue north to the San Francisco Bay area, Las Vegas, [[Phoenix]] or wherever in the U.S. you are continuing to. See [[California#By plane 2|By plane]] under the "Get Around" section for more information. ===By train=== {{see also|Rail travel in the United States}} [[Amtrak]] serves several routes into and out of California. If you are going to Los Angeles from the Central Valley, you might have to change to a bus for the last part of the trip, as the only railway connection between the Central Valley and Los Angeles is also one of the busiest freight lines in the United States. Plans to build a new [[high speed rail]] line to link San Francisco and Los Angeles are underway, but completion is not scheduled before the late 2020s. The following Amtrak routes serve California and terminate in [[Los Angeles#By train|Los Angeles]] or [[Emeryville]]: * The ''[[California Zephyr]]'' runs daily between [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] and [[Emeryville]] with connections in [[Omaha]], [[Denver]], [[Provo]], [[Salt Lake City]] and [[Reno|Reno/Lake Tahoe]]. This train also stops in the Sierra Nevada (Truckee and Colfax) and the Sacramento Valley (Roseville, [[Sacramento]], Davies and Martinez). Emeryville is the nearest Amtrak station to downtown San Francisco where passengers transfer to the Amtrak Thruway bus to continue across the bay to San Francisco. * The ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' runs daily between Los Angeles and [[Seattle#By train|Seattle]] via [[Portland (Oregon)#By train|Portland]], [[Klamath Falls]], [[Redding]], [[Bay Area (California)|San Francisco Bay Area]], Santa Barbara, [[San Luis Obispo]] and [[Oxnard]]. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/southwest-chief-train.html Southwest Chief]'' runs daily from [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] via [[Kansas City]], [[Albuquerque]], [[Flagstaff]], Williams Junction (nearest stop to the [[Grand Canyon]]) and [[Kingman]] to Los Angeles. It also makes stops in the Mojave Desert ([[Needles]], [[Barstow]] and [[Victorville]]); the [[Inland Empire]] ([[Riverside]] and [[San Bernardino]]) and Orange County ([[Fullerton]]) and on its way into Los Angeles. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/sunset-limited-train.html Sunset Limited]'' runs three times a week from [[New Orleans]] via [[Houston]], [[San Antonio]], [[El Paso]], [[Tucson]] and [[Yuma]]. Additionally, Amtrak's ''[http://www.texaseagle.com/ Texas Eagle]'' service between San Antonio and Chicago incorporates the Sunset Limited to provide a direct connection to Los Angeles with the same stops as the Sunset Limited between San Antonio and Los Angeles. This train also stops in the Inland Empire ([[Pomona]], Ontario and Palm Springs). Train services are limited to two token lines with hardly any real transport value in Mexico and there are ''no'' passenger rail service to anywhere near the U.S./Mexican border from anywhere in Mexico. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to California. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''By bus'' under ''Get around'' in the below for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By car=== All major road entrances (including entrances from other U.S. States) to California have agricultural inspection stations to ensure that some fruits and vegetables do not cross into a region where they may come into contact with the farms in the [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. Often, travelers are subject to border inspection (somewhat strict for domestic travel) and asked if they have been on a farm or are carrying organic matter with them. ==Get around== California is the third largest state of the U.S. by area (after [[Alaska]] and [[Texas]]). It compares in size with [[Sweden]]. However, getting around California can be simple. ===By car=== [[File:California State Route 1 in Marin County.jpg|California State Route 1|thumb|right|250px]] [[File:405 southbound near Getty Museum.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Interstate 405 in Los Angeles]] In addition to interstates and US highways, California has one of the most expansive state highway systems in the United States. As with all long-distance trips in the United States, a car is generally the best way to get around and see destinations, especially rural ones. However the trip from the northern end of California to the southern end can take well over ten hours as the state's varied and in places rugged terrain can pose obstacles to the road network. The coast routes (State Route 1 and U.S. 101) are much slower and windier than Interstate 5, and GPS travel estimate times may be inaccurate, especially on Highway 1. Most California drivers are courteous and careful (although speeding is rampant), and the safety and ease of driving in California is comparable to most wealthy countries. Exceptions may be found in the most congested areas of San Francisco and Los Angeles &mdash; where potholes, road rage and reckless driving are commonplace &mdash; and some country roads in mountain ranges. Information about vehicle collisions and other non-congestion traffic problems on highways are reported online at [https://www.chp.ca.gov/traffic chp.ca.gov/traffic]. Traffic congestion is tracked by most online map sites. Gasoline prices are more expensive than in other parts of the U.S.; consider public transit in highly populated areas such as the Bay Area where prices are especially high. ====Freeway signage (and cautions)==== California uses the MUTCD (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices) lane marking system standard throughout the United States, in which dashed white lines divide lanes of through traffic and yellow divides opposing traffic (with single dashed indicating passing and double solid indicating no passing). In many urban areas the lane markings are replaced by Botts dots for additional tactile feedback when crossing lanes. The network of freeways in major population centers is often confusing and intimidating to those unfamiliar with the area, so having a good map is very helpful. The great majority of exits from freeways are on the right. At interchanges between freeways, in most cases, the flow of traffic continues through the left lanes with the transition to the other freeway being in the right lanes. At some freeway interchanges, Caltrans (California Dept. of Transportation) is notorious for posting advance direction signs that do not correctly explain which lanes correspond to which ramps. Additionally, Caltrans does not always post signs warning of upcoming lane drops or merges. For example, where a freeway has three through lanes and the central lane splits into two lanes, thus resulting in two ramps with two lanes each, the advance signage may incorrectly imply that only the right lane will break off for the upcoming right-side ramp, thus causing visitors driving in the middle lane to merge unnecessarily into the right lane. And the two lanes on the right-side ramp may suddenly merge into each other without any warning. These issues frequently result in visitors making wild last-minute lane merges. Approach major freeway interchanges in California with caution. Mile-based exit numbering is in progress but is still very erratic in areas; an exit number may not be marked at all, may be marked on the last directional sign before the exit, or may be marked on the final "Exit" sign where the exit ramp separates. ====Ramp meters==== In urban areas, the access ramps to a freeway may have traffic lights for each lane (called ramp meters or ramp metering lights; you'll see warning signs that read "meter on"). During high-traffic times, the traffic light spaces out the vehicles attempting to merge onto the freeway. Be sure to read the sign below the light as ramps can allow 1 to 3 vehicles per green light. Most ramp meters are for ramps from local roads to a freeway, but some freeway junctions have meters on their ramps too. ====Toll roads and bridges==== Most highways are freely accessible and toll-free. However, California has some toll bridges, toll roads, and tolled Express Lanes. Toll road and bridges are indicated on road signs. When a toll-free road flows directly into a toll road or bridge, there is sometimes a sign for "last exit before toll". FasTrak electronic toll collection (ETC) via toll transponders or tags is used for all toll facilities. Cash is no longer accepted. FasTrak is not compatible with any other state's ETC system. Some California toll authorities also allow online pay-by-plate, but if no signage mentions it, assume it is unavailable. If you drive a vehicle through a toll gantry without an active FasTrak account and the toll authority has no pay by plate option, you may receive an expensive ticket for nonpayment of toll. In Northern California, all major bridges in the San Francisco Bay Area have toll plazas, with tolls charged on traffic in only one direction. The plazas are unmanned and will be replaced with gantries for open-road tolling, but for now, drivers must slow to 20 mph to pass through them. Southern California has several toll roads in Orange County which use open-road tolling. "Express Lanes" are high-occupancy (HOV) lanes (carpool lanes) that non-high-occupancy vehicles can often use by paying a toll. Electronic signs will indicate whether the Express Lane is "open to all" (no toll is charged) or "HOV only" (only HOVs eligible for toll-free access may use the lane). If the signs show a price in dollars and cents, it means that non-HOV vehicles may use the Express Lane but will be charged that toll. During times of severe traffic congestion, Express Lanes may charge tolls of $20 or more per vehicle. HOVs are supposed to be exempt from tolls in Express Lanes. Some Express Lane operators require all HOVs to carry FasTrak Flex transponders to signal their toll-free status. If you are legally using a free carpool lane and a sign warns it will turn into a tolled Express Lane, you must merge immediately back into regular lanes if you do not have FasTrak Flex. ====HOV/carpool lanes==== Some freeways have a high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane on the far left. This lane, also called the carpool lane or diamond lane, is marked by: * a diamond symbol painted on the road surface * signage on the wall separating the two sides of the freeway, with the diamond symbol * a double yellow line on the road surface (only in Southern California) Some freeway access ramps have carpool lanes too; often, the non-carpool lanes will have ramp meter traffic lights while the carpool lane has none. In most cases, the carpool lane is only for vehicles with 2 or more persons inside, motorcycles, and clean-air vehicles with [https://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/carpool/carpool.htm government-issued "Access OK" stickers]. Sometimes, 3 or more persons and/or a FasTrak transponder may be required, so check the signage before entering a carpool lane. Carpool lane restrictions may be enforced 24 hours a day every day, or only when the signage says so (in those cases, it's usually only during rush hour on weekdays). Carpool lanes in Southern California have limited access points marked by a dashed white line. This is the only point at which a vehicle may legally enter or exit a carpool lane, since you are not allowed to cross a double yellow line. The minimum fine for unlawful use of a carpool lane is $490. ====Traffic safety and law enforcement==== All persons in a moving vehicle are required to wear a seatbelt and the driver and all passengers can be individually ticketed for failing to do so. Motorcycle riders must wear a helmet. Cellphone users are required to use a hands-free headset if talking on the phone while driving. Texting by the driver is illegal, as is any action on the phone that forces the driver to touch it more than once (and even single-touch actions are only allowed if the phone is mounted securely rather than hand-held). Unless otherwise signed, right-turns are permitted at red lights following a full stop. If it is raining hard enough to require you to use your windshield wipers, California law requires that your headlights be turned on. Most California police officers carry radar guns to catch speeding drivers. The California Highway Patrol occasionally flies aircraft overhead to spot speeders and help ground units home in on their positions. Red light enforcement cameras are in use at many urban intersections, but are marked only by a single "photo enforced" sign before the intersection. Speed enforcement cameras are being piloted in a few cities, including San Francisco and Los Angeles; the cameras are small and hard to spot. California's laws against driving under the influence of alcohol are very strict; the maximum permissible blood alcohol concentration is 0.08%. All drivers are strongly encouraged to call 911 to report drunk drivers. California requires disabled out-of-state visitors to apply at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for a travel placard for handicapped parking. It is valid for 90 days. Travelers with a non-US driver's license are generally permitted to drive in California. However, travelers who are in California for more than 10 days with some kinds of visas, especially the K-1 non-immigrant visa for future spouses, have run into some difficulties over their place of residence. The DMV refuses to issue drivers' licenses to people with non-immigrant visas, but police have filed charges against some of them for becoming a California resident without promptly obtaining a California license – the very license that the State refuses to issue on the grounds that they haven't legally become residents yet. This risk may be reduced by giving your non-California address as your place of legal residence if stopped by police. Unlike most states, "lane-splitting" by motorcyclists (i.e. riding down the painted lines between traffic lanes) is legal in California and commonly done in heavy traffic. It's only legal when traffic is going slower than 30 mph, and motorcyclists are only allowed to go 15 mph faster than the general flow of traffic, but many motorcyclists seem to treat this as more of a guideline than a hard and fast rule. As a result, if you're driving a car, take extra care to watch for motorcycles when changing lanes on a major highway. ====Major highways==== [[File:California State Route 1 All American Road sign.jpg|150px|thumb|right|A California State Highway sign. The poppy sign below it indicates that it is a state scenic route]] Here are some important highways in California: * [[File:I-5.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 5]]:''' Runs between San Diego, Los Angeles, and Sacramento, then north into Oregon and Washington. :*[[File:California 99.svg|22px]] '''State Route 99:''' Runs along the California Central Valley between Red Bluff, Sacramento, Stockton, Modesto, Fresno and Bakersfield as the Golden State Freeway. * [[File:I-8.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 8:''' Runs between San Diego, Calexico, Yumma, and Casa Grande, Arizona. * [[File:I-10.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10]]:''' Runs between Santa Monica, Los Angeles, the Inland Empire and Palm Springs, then over the Colorado River into Arizona and points east. * [[File:I-15.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 15:''' Runs between San Diego, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Las Vegas, Nevada and points north. * [[File:I-40.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 40:''' Runs between Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona, towards Oklahoma City and points east. Interstate 40 bypasses or replaces the old Route 66 between Barstow and Oklahoma City (as County Rd 66 in San Bernardino County). :* [[File:US_66_(historic).svg|22px]] '''[[Route 66|Historic Route 66]]:''' Now decommissioned, historically connected Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona and points east. It runs alongside I-40 between Barstow and Oklahoma City and alongside or concurrent with I-15 between Barstow and San Bernardino. * [[File:I-80.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 80#California|Interstate 80]]:''' Runs between the Bay Area, Sacramento, Reno, Nevada, and points east. * [[File:I-405.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 405:''' Runs {{mile|72}} between Northridge and Irvine via Van Nuys, LAX, Culver City, Long Beach, Santa Ana, and point in between as an auxiliary by-pass of I-5 through the Los Angeles Area. * [[File:I-580.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 580:''' Connects the San Francisco Bay Area with Interstate 5 in the Central Valley * [[File:US 50.svg|22px]]'''U.S. Highway 50:''' Runs between Sacramento, South Lake Tahoe, Carson City, Nevada, and points east * [[File:US 101.svg|22px]] '''[[U.S._Highway_101|U.S. Highway 101]]:''' Runs between Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, then close to the California Coast to the San Francisco Bay, Eureka and points north :* [[File:California 1.svg|22px]] '''[[Pacific Coast Highway|State Route 1]]:''' Runs up the California Coast between Orange County, Los Angeles, Monterey, the Bay Area, and [[Fort Bragg]] * [[File:US 395.svg|22px]] '''[[U.S._Highway_395|'U.S. Highway 395]]:''' Runs along the Eastern Sierras, connecting the Inland Empire and High Desert with Bishop, Reno, and Susanville, then into Oregon and points north ====Taxis and rideshares==== Taxis and rideshare services (Uber and Lyft) are widely available in and around California's largest cities: San Francisco, Los Angeles (including Orange County), San Diego, and Sacramento. They are less likely to be available in small towns and rural areas. ====Robotaxis==== Waymo operates a robotaxi service with self-driving vehicles in two service areas: one on the San Francisco Peninsula from San Francisco to downtown San Jose, and another in the western part of Los Angeles south of the Santa Monica Mountains, from downtown Los Angeles to Santa Monica and as far south as Inglewood. However, Waymo does not yet have authorization to provide service to Los Angeles International Airport. Only San Jose International Airport allows Waymo unrestricted access to pick up and drop off passengers. Waymo is now able to drive on freeways, and it can also pick up and drop off at San Francisco International Airport, but only at the Rental Car Center (10 minutes to the terminals via AirTrain tram). Both features are subject to wait lists, making them less useful to new users. ===By plane=== [[File:LAX LA.jpg|Los Angeles International Airport|250px|thumb|right]] Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state. [https://www.aa.com American/American Eagle]; [https://www.united.com/ United/United Express]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.delta.com Delta], [https://www.southwest.com Southwest], [https://www.jetblue.com JetBlue], [http://www.jsx.com Jet Suite X (JSX)], [https://www.spirit.com Spirit] and [https://www.alaskaair.com Alaska Airlines] offer intrastate flights within the state of California. San Francisco is a hub for United and Alaska; while Los Angeles is a hub for United, American/American Eagle, Delta, JetBlue and Alaska Airlines. The LAX-SFO route is one of the busiest in America which means competitive fares and delays are frequent which is only made worse by the fog that tends to hit San Francisco bay on a regular basis. In addition, the airlines offer flights from different airports in [[Southern California#By plane|southern California]] in the south; to the [[Bay_Area_(California)#By plane|SF Bay area]] and to Sacramento in the north at competitive rates. A route between lesser-known airports (say, Burbank to Oakland) may save you money and avoid airport chaos compared to LAX-SFO. The primary airports served by major US carriers, Volaris (from Mexico) and Aeromexico (from Mexico) in California are in: :* Los Angeles area – [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles International]] ({{IATA|LAX}}), [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Burbank-Hollywood Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]], [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa Ana_(California)|Orange County]]; [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}), and a small airport in [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach] ({{IATA|LGB}}) :* San Francisco Bay Area – [[San Francisco International Airport|San Francisco]] ({{IATA|SFO}}), [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay] ({{IATA|OAK}}), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose] ({{IATA|SJC}}), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] (Charles M. Schulz Airport) ({{IATA|STS}}) in Santa Rosa; both San Francisco and Oakland airport are now connected to the metro, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a free shuttle at the 'Santa Clara Station'. Oakland is closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO is and offers a fog-free alternative. :* [[San Diego#By plane|San Diego]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno]] ({{IATA|RNO}}), Nevada closer to the Lake Tahoe area than Sacramento The busiest second tier airports are [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno] ({{IATA|FAT}}) (nearest to Yosemite NP); [https://flysba.santabarbaraca.gov/ Santa Barbara] ({{IATA|SBA}}); and [https://flypsp.com/ Palm Springs] ({{IATA|PSP}}). There are also flights from major hubs to [[Arcata]]/McKinleyville (nearest to Eureka), Bakersfield, Crescent City, El Centro, Mammoth Lakes, Merced, Monterey, Redding, San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, and Stockton. ===By train=== The state's various rail services provide a cheap and reasonably comfortable way to see and get around much of the state [[USA without a car|without a car]]. '''[[Amtrak]]''' operates a few long-distance routes through and out of California, as well as the three Amtrak California routes: :* San Luis Obispo-Santa Barbara-Los Angeles-Anahiem-San Diego on the ''[https://www.pacificsurfliner.com/ Pacific Surfliner]'' :* Oakland/Sacramento-Stockton-Fresno-Bakersfield on the ''[https://goldrunner.com/ Gold Runner]'' (which has a connecting Thruway bus service to Los Angeles) :* San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Auburn on the ''[https://www.capitolcorridor.org/ Capitol Corridor]'' :* Los Angeles-Santa Barbara-San Luis Obispo-San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Redding-(continues to Seattle) on the ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' :* Emeryville (San Francisco connection)-Sacramento-Truckee (near Lake Tahoe)-(continues to Chicago) on the ''California Zephyr'' :*Los Angeles-Palm Springs-(continues to Chicago) on the Sunset Limited :*''Amtrak Thruway Motorcoaches'' connects additional cities and towns to/from the Amtrak (train) network by bus such as Santa Cruz-San Jose; San Francisco-Emeryville; Bakersfield-Los Angeles; Bakersfield-Las Vegas; Martinez-Arcata; Redding-Sacramento; etc. Amtrak has seen continuously increasing ridership in most of the US for more than a decade now, and surprisingly enough three of the six most popular Amtrak routes run through California, thus making them a viable alternative to the more often than not congested roads and airports. In addition, there are several commuter and regional services in the state's metro areas: :*''[https://www.caltrain.com/ Caltrain]'' San Francisco-Palo Alto-San Jose-Gilroy through the famous Silicon Valley. :* ''[https://acerail.com/ Altamont Commuter Express]'' San Jose-Stockton through the Altamont Corridor Express. :* ''[https://www.bart.gov/ BART]'' operates in the Bay Area, connecting much of the East Bay (Oakland, Berkeley, Walnut Creek) to San Francisco and SFO. :* ''[https://metrolinktrains.com/ Metrolink]'' runs regional train service throughout the greater Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura County (metropolis) region on multiple routes. :* ''[https://gonctd.com/services/coaster-commuter-rail/ COASTER]'' runs along the coast of San Diego County between downtown San Diego, Carlsbad and Oceanside. :*''[https://gonctd.com/services/sprinter-hybrid-rail/ SPRINTER]'' runs across Northern San Diego County between Escondino and Oceanside with bus and train connections to Los Angeles and San Diego. :*''[https://www.sonomamarintrain.org/ Sonoma-Marin Rail (SMART)]'' runs between Santa Rosa and San Rafael in Marin/Sonoma County (Northern Bay Area) with ferry connections to San Francisco There are also light rail systems in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Jose. Almost all of these systems are being expanded or upgraded to cope with rising ridership, so expect more and better service in years to come. ===By bus=== {{see also|Long-distance bus travel in the United States }} The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There are fairly frequent service from [[Los Angeles#By bus|Los Angeles]] to [[San Francisco#By bus|San Francisco]]/[[San Jose_(California)#By bus|San Jose]]; [[San Diego#By_bus|San Diego]]/[[Tijuana#By_bus|Tijuana]]; [[Las Vegas#By_bus|Las Vegas]]/[[San Bernardino#By_bus|San Bernardino]] and [[Sacramento#By bus|Sacramento]] with on multiple routes with various bus companies. There are other the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns which are not listed, check the article of your destination for all the transportation options. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/california/ here]. * {{listing | name=Eastern Sierra Transit | alt= | url=https://www.estransit.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 760 872-1901 | tollfree=+1 800 922-1930 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Operates 'local' buses along US Hwy 395 corridor between Mammoth Lake, Bishop and Lone Pine in Mono and Inyo Counties in the eastern 'Desert' and the Sierra Nevada parts of the state. They have a route continuing north to Carson City & Reno from Mammoth Lake and south to Lancaster from Lone Pine. The area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway buses }} * {{listing | type=go | name=El Paso Los Angeles Limousine Express | alt= | url=https://www.eplalimo.com/ | email= | address=(downtown LA depot) 622 E 6th St | lat= | long= | directions=SW corner of E 6th St & Wall St across the street from police station | phone=+1 213 623-2323 and +1 323-265-3232 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Travels along I-10 between Los Angeles, [[Indio]], Phoenix, [[Las Cruces]] and El Paso on one route and on I-15 to Las Vegas & North Las Vegas on another route. They have additional stops in E. Los Angeles, El Monte and [[Colton]] on their way on both routes. They also have a second depot at 4425 S Atlantic Blvd in E Los Angeles. }} * {{listing | name=Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.flixbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 626-8585 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-06-14 | content=The German bus company, Flixbus, connects Los Angeles to Las Vegas, Phoenix, Sacramento, SF Bay Area and San Diego via multiple cities en route in Arizona and California. It has grown rapidly through subcontracting its operations, which has the downside for customers that the buses are not of a consistent style or quality. In October 2021 they had merged with Greyhound Lines (see below) but, maintain separate brands. Tickets and schedules with Greyhound and Flixbus can be searched and purchased through each other's websites. }} * {{listing | name=Green Tortoise | alt= | url=https://greentortoise.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 415 956-7500 | tollfree=1 800 867-8647 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates something like a 'hippie' bus that serves as a bus by day with stops to visit different places like a bus tour throughout the day and a RV camper by night in different campgrounds. It offers bus tours and camping trips to Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Death Valley Sequoia and along the coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Some of its tours involve a 3- to 5-day round trip from the point of origin such as from San Francisco to Yosemite NP and back while others are one way where the journey starts from one place and end in the other like from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree and end in Las Vegas. Even with round trips it is possible to ask to be picked up or dropped off in different places than the point of origin/return. Others like its 'Hostel Hoppers' or 'Express' are a straightforward bus ride from point A to B. It is one way to combine 'taking the bus' from one place to another and to visit and see remote places without a private automobile. }} * {{listing | name=Greyhound , Cruceros-USA, Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1 800 231-2222 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Greyhound goes to 100 locations statewide, though these are not all actual stations, some are merely stops. In general, Greyhound serves the same routes that Amtrak does along the main highways. In some cases Greyhound is cheaper, faster, and more frequent than Amtrak. Flixbus tickets can also be searched and purchased on Greyhound's website }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Hoang Express | alt= | url=https://www.xedohoang.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 714 839-3500 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=$60-65 to Bay Area; $80 to Sacramento | content=Travels between SoCal (San Diego, El Monte, Los Angeles, [[Westminster (California)|Westminster]]); Bay Area (San Francisco, San Jose & Oakland) and to Sacramento on another route from Los Angeles. They also offer service from Los Angeles to Arizona (Phoenix, [[Chandler (Arizona)|Chandler]] and [[Tempe]]. }} * {{go | name=International Bus Lines | alt=formerly Intercalifornias | url=https://www.ibuslines.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 629-4885 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination | content=Connects Tijuana, San Ysidro (just over the border), Santa Ana, Los Angeles, San Fernando, Bakersfield, Fresno, and San Jose/[[Stockton (California)|Stockton]] (route splits/joins in Madero) and several other places in between. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=LuxBus | alt= | url=https://www.luxbusamerica.com/ | email= | address=on request for hotel pick up/drop off | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-877-610-7870 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Operates to/from [[Las Vegas]], [[Anaheim]], and [[San Diego]]. }} * {{listing | name=Mendocino Transit Authority (MTA) | alt= | url=https://mendocinotransit.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Travels extensively in the North Coast region along Hwy 1 from Ft Bragg to Navarro River Junction (#65), Point Arena (#75), Bodega Bay and Santa Rosa (#95). Another route from Ft Bragg to Willits, Ukiah and Santa Rosa along SR-20 and US Hwy 101 (Rt #65). Much of the area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway Buses off the US Hwy 101 corridor. }} * {{listing | name=Sage Stage | alt= | url=https://sagestage.com/ | email= | address=(bus stops) Rite Aide @ 5th & Main in Alturas | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 530 233-6410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-18 | content=Provides public transportation from Alturas and Canby in Modoc County, in the [[Shasta Cascades]], to [[Redding]]; [[Reno]], NV; and [[Klamath Falls]], OR on three separate routes. }} * {{listing | name=Santa Barbara Airbus | alt= | url=https://www.sbairbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 805 964-7759 | tollfree=+1-800-423-1618 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-08-05 | content=Eight trips a day from [[Los Angeles International Airport|LAX]] to [[Carpinteria]], [[Santa Barbara]] and [[Goleta]]. }} * {{listing | name="Cabin" | alt=formerly Sleep Bus | url=https://www.ridecabin.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-25 | content=Overnight service to the Los Angeles area (Ocean & Arizona Ave in Palisades Park in [[Santa Monica]]) from San Francisco (Bayside Lot @ 1 Bryant St). This is an actual sleeper bus featuring twin size bunk beds with privacy curtains, power outlets, and free wifi. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Tufesa | alt= | url=https://www.gotobus.com/tufesa/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 489-8079 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination |lastedit=2022-11-30| content=Connects Los Angeles to Sacramento (via Bakersfield, Fresno, etc); to Salt Lake City (via Barstow, Las Vegas, St George, etc); to Hermosillo (via Phoenix, Tucson, Nogales); San Francisco Bay Area; and to Tijuana (via Santa Ana, San Diego/San Ysidro). }} * {{listing | name=Yarts | alt= | url=https://yarts.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates regularly scheduled buses from Yosemite NP (Visitors' Center) to Fresno, Merced, Mammoth Lakes & Sonora on four separate routes. }} ===By foot=== *The [[Pacific Crest Trail]] crosses the length of California on its way from [[Mexico]] to [[Canada]] *The [[American Discovery Trail]] connects California with [[Nevada]] and the East Coast. ===By boat=== *Ferry service is limited, but can be a scenic, relaxing, and fun way to travel. Major services exist in the [[Bay Area]], to the [[Channel Islands (California)|Channel Islands]] and to [[Catalina Island]] near Los Angeles. Several of the smaller coastal towns have water taxi services within their city. Check as the stops and limited and the schedules may seasonal. *Many cities are along the coast, or else on navigable waterways, and you can dock your own boat there. == See == [[File:Us-ca-sanfran-goldengate.jpg|thumb|Golden Gate Bridge in [[San Francisco]]]] As the most geographically and culturally diverse state in the U.S., California offers an endless amount of things to see and do; even when you think you've experienced everything in one area of the state, a short trip to another part has plenty more to offer. Incredible and unique scenery, some of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, centuries old historical sites, unending cultural and entertainment options {{snd}}no matter where your interests lie, California will almost certainly offer it. ===Natural attractions=== [[Image:16-yosemite-half-dome.jpg|thumb|Half Dome at [[Yosemite National Park]]]] From white-sand beaches to snowcapped mountains, with lush forests and arid deserts in between, no other state offers such a wide a variety of natural landscapes as California does. California hosts the largest number of [[United States national parks|U.S. national parks]] with a total of nine. The most famous of these is '''[[Yosemite National Park]]''', featuring thundering waterfalls and geological behemoths like El Capitan and Half Dome. The surrounding [[Sierra Nevada]] also hosts nearby '''[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]''' which are both home to some of the world's largest living organisms, the giant sequoia. '''[[Redwood National Park]]''' in the far northwestern corner of the state and the surrounding area feature the world's tallest species of trees, the coast redwood. Tired of forests? The California desert is the site of some of the hottest and most arid places on Earth. '''[[Death Valley National Park]]''' is the location of the highest ever recorded temperature on the planet. If deserts are not your thing, beaches and California are practically synonymous. '''[[Big Sur]]''' and '''[[Point Reyes National Seashore|Point Reyes]]''' are notable examples of a scenic, winding stretch of unspoiled coastline that is typical of Northern California, featuring rocky cliffs and towering redwood trees that meet thundering ocean waves. Further south, the water is much warmer and suitable for all-day beach trips. Here, world-class beach towns such as '''[[Santa Barbara]]''', '''[[Malibu]]''', and those of '''[[Beach Cities|Orange County]]''' offer opportunities to catch waves, practice beach volleyball, or simply lounge around and tan underneath palm trees. If high-altitude adventure is what you are seeking, California has that too. At an elevation of 14,505 feet (4,421 meters) above sea level, '''[[Mount Whitney]]''' is the highest mountain in the lower 48 states. Snow activities such as skiing and snowboarding are plentiful in '''[[Lake Tahoe]]''' in the winter, while hiking and water recreation such as boating are popular in summer. [[File:Silver Lake.jpg|thumb|Silver Lake is in the [[Sierra Nevada|Sierra Nevada Range]] of eastern California]] While the national parks may receive most of the attention, California has the largest [[California state parks|state park system]] in the United States. These protected areas are found in places ranging from being adjacent to national parks to green landscapes in the middle of cities that offer a respite from the hectic urban rush. California's high population and its climate have also led to the creation of numerous [[Reservoirs in California|reservoirs]]. California marine animals (native and migrating) are easily found in the wild along the state's beaches, in lagoons and estuaries, such as sea otters, grey whales, elephant seals, harbor seals, sea lions as well as multitudes of tide pools dwellers including crabs, sea stars, anemone, and sea urchins. Timing is key: go at low tide to see lots of marine life. ===Monuments and architecture=== California has long been a canvas for architects and engineers to design and build some pioneering structures or to popularize styles that would define a time period. With two of the most prominent cities in the United States, [[Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco]], this is certainly notable with many of the structures and buildings that are found there. San Francisco is home to engineering marvels such as the '''Golden Gate Bridge''', Lombard Street (the most crooked street in the world), and cable cars that seemingly glide up and down the hills between the waterfront and rest of downtown. The many skyscrapers such as the Transamerica Pyramid have all been specifically designed to withstand powerful earthquakes. The stately '''Palace of Fine Arts''' and charming Painted Ladies of Alamo Square have served as backdrops countless of times for the city by the Bay. As the epicenter of the global entertainment industry, the '''Hollywood Sign''' is an icon of Los Angeles recognized worldwide. The nearby Hollywood Walk of Fame, Capitol Records Building, and numerous theaters all solidify the city's hold on entertainment. The Griffith Observatory and Walt Disney Concert Hall are also notable features in the cityscape, as is the imposing '''Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum''', the site of the 1932 and 1984 Summer Olympics. Other notable landmarks outside these two cities include the '''California State Capitol''' in [[Sacramento]] (modeled after the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.), labyrinthine '''Winchester Mystery House''' in [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]] with eerie origins, and the lavish '''Hearst Castle''' in the Central Coast town of [[San Simeon]] that anchors the landscape of the surrounding area. ===Historical sites=== From former Native American sites to suburban garages where modern technology was invented, California's centuries-long history is preserved in numerous historical sites and museums that are scattered throughout the state. One of the most comprehensive collections of state history from prehistory to contemporary times is housed in the '''Oakland Museum of California''' in [[Oakland]], with a vast collection of nearly 2 million items related to California history, art, and science. The legacy of Spanish colonial times remains with the string of '''twenty-one missions''' that span the length of much of the state from '''Mission San Diego de Alcalá ''' in the San Diego's [[San Diego/Old Town-Mission Valley|Old Town]] (founded in 1769) up to '''Mission San Francisco Solano''' in the Bay Area town of [[Sonoma]] (founded in 1823). Perhaps the most beautiful of these though, is '''Mission Santa Barbara''', which lent its name to [[Santa Barbara|the same city]] and is rightfully referred to as the "Queen of the Missions". '''El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument''' in downtown [[Los Angeles]] is another historical feature from the Spanish era, although the neighborhood underwent a major transformation during the period of Mexican rule (1821 to 1848) that now gives the area a distinct Mexican atmosphere, particularly along Olvera Street. Spain was not the only European power that colonized California, however. '''[[Fort Ross]]''' in the northern edge of the Bay Area was the southernmost Russian outpost in North America and was in operation from 1812 to 1841. Gold Rush legacies live on in [[Gold Country]], located in the northeastern part of the state. Following the discovery of gold at '''Sutter's Mill''' in [[Coloma (California)|Coloma]] in 1848, hundreds of thousands of fortune seekers from around the world made their way to California, establishing dozens of towns, most of which still retain their Old West charm and atmosphere. '''Old Sacramento''' in the [[Sacramento|state's capital city]] also sprung up as the commercial and transportation center of this era, with places of interest including the first terminus of the '''First Transcontinental Railroad''' and related California Railroad Museum. '''Cannery Row''' and much of the rest of [[Monterey (California)|Monterey]] provide a glimpse of the state's once lucrative fishing and canning industry during the first half of the 20th century, with carefully preserved wooden buildings that housed factory workers and engines, along with rustic (and still active) piers. ===Motion picture sets=== Countless [[fiction tourism|films and television series]] have been set in California. Much of the production is made within the 30-mile (50-km) studio zone around Los Angeles, but sceneries across the whole state are famous from the movies. Some franchises with their own itineraries are ''[[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]]'', ''[[Easy Rider]]'', ''[[Fast and Furious tourism|Fast and Furious]]'', ''[[Forrest Gump tour|Forrest Gump]]'', ''[[Kill Bill tourism|Kill Bill]]'' and ''[[Terminator tourism|The Terminator]]''. ===Itineraries=== *[[El Camino Real]] (The Royal Road) &mdash; a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of Alta California (modern day state of California) offering a fascinating look into California's history. El Camino Real is most accessible via [[Pacific Coast Highway|Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1)]] and [[U.S. Highway 101]]. *[[Pacific Coast Highway]] &mdash; tour up and down the iconic California coast, along [[Big Sur]], all the way up to its end where it merges into the US 101, which goes up to Washington state. * [[U.S. Highway 395]], [[Interstate 5#California|Interstate 5 & CA-99]], [[Interstate 10]], [[Interstate 80]], and the [[Lincoln Highway]] are major highways through California with their own Wikivoyage article. * The old [[Route 66]] begins in Santa Monica. ==Do== [[File:Hollywood sign 053004.jpg|thumb|[[Hollywood]]]] * '''Ski''' at one of the great resorts near [[Lake Tahoe]] or [[Big Bear Lake|Big Bear]]. * Try your hand at '''surfing''' or work on your tan in [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]] or [[Santa Monica]]. * The long coastline offers some great [[Scuba diving in California|California scuba diving]]. * Go '''winetasting''' at one of the countless vineyards dotting [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. * Climb a mountain and camp in the [[Sierra Nevada]] or [[Shasta Cascades]]. * See California's amazing wildflowers. From March through May, the [https://theodorepayne.org/ California Wildflower Hotline] at +1 818 768-3533 offers the latest information on the best places to view wildflowers throughout Southern and Central California. The hotline and website are updated every Thursday evening. More than 90 wildflower sites are included. The hotline, founded in 1983, is run by the Theodore Payne Foundation for Wild Flowers and Native Plants. * Listen to music at the '''[http://www.northerncaliforniabluesfest.com Northern California Blues Festival]{{Dead link|date=October 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. The fastest growing festival of its kind comes in June to Sacramento County around Father's day each year and usually features a spectacular line-up of Blues artists. Event benefits Through the Mind, a non-profit providing free alternative mental health to America's Veterans. * Visit one of the many '''theme parks''', such as [[Disneyland]] or [[Six Flags Magic Mountain]]. ==Buy== {{see also|Shopping in the United States}} Usually US dollars and common credit or debit cards are the only accepted modes of payment. Many stores can take contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. You might have some luck with Mexican pesos near the immediate border area, but the exchange rates are usually terrible. California stores no longer give out free plastic bags, except for fresh grocery produce and meats. Reusable plastic bags cost a minimum of ten cents (by state law). Many stores sell cloth bags for one or two dollars. The state sales tax is 7.25%. However, counties and cities are allowed to levy their own sales taxes on top. In most areas you visit, the actual sales tax will be around 8% or 9%. In certain parts of the counties of Alameda and Los Angeles, actual sales tax is over 10%. In California, sales tax is levied on sales of nearly all tangible personal property. The main exceptions are regular groceries (including cold food-to-go) and prescription drugs. Hot prepared food is also usually taxed, with the exception of hot baked goods sold to go as standalone items. The state does not refund sales tax to travelers. The quintessential California souvenir depends a lot on which part of the state you visited, and what your interests are. The agricultural products change from citrus and avocadoes down south to strawberries in the middle, to almonds and wine as you move north. In LA, you might take home chocolates from See's Candies; in the Central Coast, keep an eye open for locally produced saltwater taffy; in the Bay Area, it's all about Ghirardelli Chocolate. Common themes for souvenir items include surfing, tie-dyed clothing, and redwood trees. ==Eat== {{See also|American cuisine|Fast food in the United States and Canada}} California doesn't have a single, well-defined cuisine of its own, but rather has a remarkably diverse food scene defined by its large population of immigrants of varied ethnic backgrounds and its access to one of the most productive agricultural regions on this side of the planet. The culinary style referred to as ''Californian cuisine'' or ''California fusion'' focuses on imaginative fusions of other cuisines, typically with heavy attention to presentation and an emphasis on using freshly prepared local ingredients, and has been somewhat subsumed into the general trend of "New American" cuisine. Even diners and small mom-and-pop fast food grills have elements of fusion cuisine, as it is common in California for them to serve both burgers and Mexican food. Californians take fresh food for granted. Most food you will eat in California was harvested within 300 miles (480 km) of your plate, with the exception of certain cereals and tropical crops. California is the leading global source of tree nuts (almonds, pistachios, walnuts) and also leads North America in the production of dairy products and many kinds of fruits and vegetables. Out-of-season crops are usually imported from South America, especially Chile and Brazil. With such a bounty for restaurants to draw upon, almost any dish you can imagine can be found somewhere in California. The cuisines of the Americas and Asia are heavily represented, and those of nearly every other country are also available to a lesser extent. More "North American" fare includes everything from burger shacks to vegetarian, organic and even completely vegan restaurants; the Californian love for food has made it one of the most diverse restaurant scenes in North America. The large cities have the most variety, while things get simpler and more meat-heavy as you get more rural. There are a handful of distinctive California dishes, although most of them have been adopted and adapted throughout the US. * Cobb salad – a cold salad of bacon or ham, chicken, boiled eggs, avocado, tomato, lettuce, and bleu cheese, with a vinaigrette dressing. Traditionally it's chopped fairly fine, but in modern times it's served in a variety of ways, and sometimes with ranch dressing instead of the traditional vinaigrette. It was invented at the Brown Derby restaurant in LA. * French dip sandwich – invented somewhere in LA, the exact location is subject to dispute, but it's a warm sandwich of thinly sliced roast beef on a roll that's dipped into beef broth. * Cioppino – a seafood stew developed by Italian immigrants in San Francisco, it resembles various Italian fish stews but includes local ingredients like chopped Dungeness crab. * The Mission Burrito – a San Francisco tradition characterized mainly by its great size and caloric content, featuring copious amounts of beans and rice in addition to cheese, meat and/or vegetables. * California Burrito – a San Diego specialty, it's a carne asada (spicy grilled steak) burrito, stuffed with french fries. * Santa Maria Barbeque – This is a central coast tradition. It's a bottom sirloin beef roast (the cut is locally known as tri-tip), where the fat hasn't been trimmed. It's suspended high above a hot oak fire, fat side up, so it cooks slowly and the fat melts and tenderizes the meat. It's usually served thinly sliced with tortillas or bread, salsa, onions, avocado, and other side dishes. *Chop Suey – the original "American Chinese" dish was popularized as cheap food for laborers during the California gold rush. While it's increasingly hard to find, many other American Chinese dishes were first created in San Francisco's Chinatown. Larger cities in California have some restaurants selling American Chinese food and others selling traditional Chinese dishes. In smaller cities, the Americanized version may be the only option on the menu. As a general rule, plain water is free at any restaurant. However, if you need a disposable cup, the cup will cost you 25 cents (by state law). You are allowed to bring your own reusable water cup or bottle. ===Regional chains=== California's classic burger chain '''In-N-Out''' has expanded to states as far east as [[Texas]]—see [[Fast food in the United States and Canada]] for more. Outside of fast food, California chains that you'll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere include: * {{eat | name=Ike's | alt= | url=https://www.ikessandwich.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-06-22 | content=Casual sandwich joint with more than 50 locations, mostly in California though a few are in Nevada. The menu varies by location, but in general about half the menu has meat and half is vegetarian; many vegetarian options can be made vegan. The sandwiches are filling and flavorful but not excessively heavy. }} *{{listing | name=Farmer Boys | alt= | url=https://www.farmerboys.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5435711 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=A farm-to-table restaurant chain featuring a burger shack menu that is freshly cooked from local produce. Hamburgers, sandwiches, and salads, plus diner-style breakfast options served all day. }} *{{listing | name=Lemonade | alt= | url=https://lemonadela.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=locations are mostly in Southern California, plus two in San Francisco | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$15 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=Poke bowls, chef bowls, sandwiches, and 10 different types of freshly made lemonade. This is California fusion food without the high-end budget. Take your friend who's always bored with the same-ol' stuff. Don't neglect the side dishes. Vegan options. }} ==Drink== Generally, alcohol is available in more places in California than it is in other states. A person with valid ID of age can purchase alcohol at supermarkets or liquor stores; these are regulated by the state but not owned or controlled by them. All but the smallest communities have restaurants or bars that sell beer. Some places are permitted to have a bar in one part of their establishment, and six-packs of beer for sale and offsite consumption in another part. California is known for its fine [[wine]]s and gourmet beers. As of March 2026, there are 154 established American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) across the state of California, which is the highest number of any state. [[Napa Valley|Napa]], [[Sonoma Valley|Sonoma]] and [[Mendocino County|Mendocino]] are premier wine districts north of San Francisco, but there are others in the Central Coast region ([[Paso Robles]], [[Solvang]]) and even down near [[Temecula]] where suitable microclimates have been found. The inland Central Valley region (especially near [[Lodi (California)|Lodi]]) has hotter summers and traditionally produced inexpensive bulk wines, but quality has been improving with winemaking innovations. For beer, California also has a lot of microbreweries. Sierra Nevada, in [[Chico (California)|Chico]], is one of the biggest microbreweries in North America. In the [[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] the mid-sized brewery Firestone Walker in Paso Robles is a good addition to the local wineries in the area; [[Ventura]] has had several microbreweries over the years. In [[San Diego]], Stone Brewing Company offers a great variety of beers that can be purchased throughout the state. Los Angeles has several microbreweries, especially in the Arts District. There are over 200 microbreweries in California, and many bars in large- and mid-size cities that have 20 or more beers (often both foreign and domestic and ranging from light beer to flavored stouts) on tap. In addition to microbreweries, there are a handful of distilleries in California; one even makes date vodka. === Legal issues === Californians tend to view wine as a natural accompaniment of food or socializing, overlooking its alcoholic content more easily than with distilled spirits. However police crackdowns on drinking and driving are noticeable, with roadblocks and random checks. Conviction for driving with a blood alcohol level over .08 percent is likely to bring serious legal and financial consequences. Drivers with a lower blood alcohol can still be convicted for '''DUI''' (driving under the influence) if they fail field sobriety tests, such as walking a straight line. You must be 21 years of age to buy or drink any alcoholic beverage. Underage drinking is taken very seriously, so if you want a drink and appear to be under 30, you should be ready to present identification showing your age. The only acceptable proof-of-age documents are [[passports]] from any country, and identity documents issued by US government agencies (e.g., drivers' licenses issued by any US state). Foreign drivers' licenses and foreign identity cards are ''not'' legally acceptable as proof-of-age documentation, and people who are unable to produce a passport or valid United States ID will be refused service. Only original identity documents will be accepted; photographs or photocopies will not be accepted. ==Stay healthy== ===Air pollution=== While [[air pollution]] levels have dropped dramatically since the 1970s, more than ninety percent of Californians live in counties with unhealthy air. Visitors to the mountains or the rural regions of Northern California will have nothing to worry about, but the overreliance on cars, low rainfall, and surrounding mountains in Los Angeles, the Central Valley, and the Bay Area create some of America's worst air quality. It gets particularly bad when a layer of cold air gets "trapped" by a layer of warmer air above it ("inversion") which is particularly likely in basins. While air quality is rarely at levels that would be considered immediately dangerous, visitors should heed alerts and be especially cautious when any local wildfires are burning. Occasionally, there will be an '''advisory''' issued for air stagnation, which is a phenomenon involving an air mass that cannot move and therefore stagnates over an area for an extensive period of time. Air pollutants can cause breathing difficulties for those with existing respiratory conditions. If you have a respiratory condition, refer to the '''[https://airquality.weather.gov/ National Weather Service]''' website on air quality to see if any such advisories have been issued for the areas you might visit. ===Disease=== [[File:MOUSE, CALIFORNIA (peromyscus californicus) (5-29-09) cerro alto campground road, slo co, ca -01 (3577515146).jpg|alt=California deermouse|thumb|This cute, large-eared mouse and its tan-colored siblings can carry a deadly virus.]] Deer mice can transmit a virus that causes '''hantaviral pulmonary syndrome'''. You are most likely to get infected if you breathe in dust containing their excrement (feces, urine, and saliva). Realistically, however, hantavirus is of very little concern to the traveler, as only a few people get infected each year, and most of them are exposed on the job, but sensible precautions should be applied. Do '''not''' venture in any wild animal's den or touch deer mice or their excrement. If you need to clean up after rodents, wear waterproof gloves, eye protection, and a high-quality respirator mask, and use disinfectants and wet-mopping techniques, rather than brooms and vacuums (both of which spread virus-laden dust). If you do get infected, treatment usually involves a week or two in the hospital. The main defense against the virus is prevention. ==Stay safe== [[File:Elephant seals fighting.jpg|thumb|Elephant seals fighting, [[San Simeon]]]] ===California–Mexico border=== Due to California's proximity to the international boundary with Mexico, visitors should be cautious while in areas near the border. * Beware Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) checkpoints and patrols. CBP is legally allowed to stop you or your vehicle solely in order to inquire about your citizenship and residency status within 100 miles (160 km) of any international border (in this instance, the US–Mexico border). ''Non-whites, and especially Latinos, should expect to be profiled, targeted, and harassed by these government agents.'' *Know where you are at all times. Follow good safety procedures and use common sense when making decisions. * Do not pick up [[Hitchhiking|hitchhikers]]. If the person is undocumented or carrying drugs, you could be mistaken for a trafficker. * Keep valuables, including spare change, out of sight and lock your vehicle. * Avoid traveling in well-marked but unofficial "trails." * Avoid hiking or camping in areas of major border activity. If you are visiting a national or state park, consult park staff to help plan backcountry travel in safer areas. ====Crossing the border==== Thousands of U.S citizens visit the state of [[Baja California (state)|Baja California, Mexico]] from California every year, with the majority of travelers returning from an enjoyable experience. However, a minority of travelers do experience difficulties and serious inconveniences while traveling to Mexico. Before traveling to Mexico, ensure that you have the proper documentation and are familiar with the recommendations for foreign travel from the '''[https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Mexico.html U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs]''' There are six border crossings between California and Mexico: two between San Diego and [[Tijuana]], one between [[Tecate]] and Tecate, two between [[Calexico]] and [[Mexicali]], and one between Andrade and [[Los Algodones]]. The United States operates a consulate-general in Tijuana and a consulate in Mexicali. Mexico operates Consulates in Calexico, Fresno, Los Angeles, Oxnard, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose and Santa Ana. ===Crime=== The usual inner city crime can be found in the worst parts of [[Los Angeles]], [[San Francisco]], and [[Oakland]]. Central Valley cities, such as [[Sacramento]], [[Stockton (California)|Stockton]], and [[Fresno]] also have gang problems. Northern coastal cities such as [[Eureka]] have an ongoing problem with significant drug activity and property crimes. However, most California cities are safe. As long as you take basic precautions against petty crime, such as keeping your phone and other valuables out of sight in tourist areas, and stay out of obviously run-down neighborhoods, you will probably have a safe and pleasant visit. If you are traveling along the '''Pacific Coast Highway''' or '''Highway 101''', you may notice there are a substantial number of hitch-hikers along the way. Most are harmless youthful travelers or people who just need to get somewhere for lack of other means, while others may be a bit less safe to pick up. Use your best judgement, and, unless you feel confident in the people to whom you're giving a ride, it's probably better not to offer one while you're travelling alone. '''Drugs''' are illegal in California, with the noted exception of '''[[cannabis|marijuana]]'''. Adults 21 and over are allowed to possess, use, and cultivate small amounts of marijuana, so long as it is not consumed in public or possessed on the grounds of a school or day care center. The maximum amount a person may possess is one ounce of marijuana or 8 grams of concentrates. Some dispensaries sell marijuana products to the general public, although others remain restricted to those who have a medical marijuana recommendation from a doctor. Delivery services are also available. Marijuana is still illegal under federal law, so do not carry marijuana across state lines—even to another state where it is legal—as this will be considered drug trafficking and subject to harsh punishment. Also, do not take marijuana onto federal land, including any of the dozens of national parks and national forests in California, or onto flights even within California, as the TSA is a federal agency. If you find yourself in an emergency situation (of any kind), dial '''9-1-1''' on your phone or from any (available) phone. It is a free call from a payphone. ===Earthquakes=== {{Infobox|Earthquake early warnings|Since 2019, California has rolled out an earthquake early warning system called [https://www.shakealert.org/ '''ShakeAlert'''], whose alerts can be received by most smartphones. There are [https://earthquake.ca.gov/get-alerts/ '''various methods'''] that mobile devices can receive alerts for ''imminent'' shaking: * '''Wireless Emergency Alerts''' (WEAs) are sent to capable mobile devices with cellular reception that have ''not'' opted out from receiving emergency alerts. They will appear as an urgent notification with brief instructions to safety coupled with an attention-grabbing sound. * '''Earthquake early warning mobile apps''' can push live notifications to devices when the warning system detects an occurring quake. Such apps typically require enabling '''active location services''' to determine if the device is located inside the area of possible impact. The United States Geological Survey provides [https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/how-do-i-sign-shakealertr-earthquake-early-warning-system '''information about apps for iOS and Android that utilize the ShakeAlert system.'''] * '''Many newer Android devices''' can receive earthquake alerts natively without needing to download an app. This system also requires '''enabling location services''' to determine if it's located in the impacted zone. These alerts will appear either as a notification bar for weak quakes or a full-screen alert for strong quakes with instructions to '''drop, cover, and hold'''. Wireless Emergency Alerts are sent for earthquake events exceeding magnitude 5.0 ''and'' in areas expected to receive shaking intensity of light (Mercalli intensity IV) or greater. For Android alerts, expect to receive them for events exceeding magnitude 4.5 ''and'' in areas where weak shaking (Mercalli intensity III) or stronger is expected. Mobile apps may provide options to customize the threshold of intensity to receive an alert. Warning times are limited to '''seconds''' before the arrival of shaking, and will vary depending on the distance from the epicenter. If you are located at or near the epicenter, you may receive an alert ''during or after'' shaking arrives! Warning times tend to improve the further you are from the epicenter – up to tens of seconds of warning even at a far distance.}} [[Earthquakes]] that are large enough to cause extensive damage are rare, but remain a matter of reality for the state. Most earthquakes are mild and last for a couple of seconds. You're not likely to encounter one during your trip, but if you do, you'll probably go home with nothing more exciting than a story about it being over before you figured out that it was an earthquake. When you feel the shaking, act quickly to '''drop, cover, and hold on'''. The biggest dangers in an earthquake are falling objects (such as books or bottles flying off shelves – or the whole shelf with all of its contents, if it's not properly mounted) and windows, which may shatter explosively. In the event of an earthquake, '''face away from windows''' and '''hide under any sturdy table or desk''' – and then hold on to that table, because the shaking could cause the table to slide across the floor. Contrary to popular belief, do not stand in a door frame; these are structurally weaker spots in modern buildings, and they provide no protection against falling objects. If you are indoors, '''do not run outside!''' Falling building facades are more likely to cause severe injuries than anything inside. If outdoors, stay away from buildings (especially brick chimneys, which may spray bricks around a large area), and stay out from under power lines. If you are driving, your first thought will probably be that something is wrong with your car. Immediately slow down and then stop at the nearest safe place. When the shaking is over (the ground ''and'' your nerves), it's okay to start driving again, but drive cautiously, as traffic signals will likely be out, the road surface may be cracked, other drivers may be panicking, and there may be trees or damaged vehicles blocking the road ahead. ===Deserts=== Along the southern most border of California-Nevada, as well as the border of California-Arizona, California has elaborate desert landscapes which extend into the south central regions of the state, the most famous (or infamous) being the region known as [[Death Valley]], where several tourists and hikers have indeed met their fate while exploring the region. If you are planning on traveling or hiking into these locations, '''follow desert survival guidelines'''. Be sure to take plenty of water (at least one gallon/four litres per person, per day), sunscreen and wear light clothing. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Be sure to have a full tank of gasoline prior to traveling by car into these regions, as many desert locations are extremely remote and without any services for several miles (in some cases nearly 100 miles / 160 km). To break down in these regions could be extremely unpleasant in the best case scenario, tragic in the worst. Also, it is best to hike during the earlier part of the day, as thunderstorms tend to develop suddenly during the afternoon. In the event you encounter inclement weather conditions, seek high ground immediately! Thunderstorms can cause flash flooding in canyons and other low-lying areas. ===Tsunamis=== The incidence of earthquakes in California raises the concern for potential threats of tsunamis. Though tsunamis occur very rarely, a great deal of California's coastline is in a tsunami zone. For more information on the state's hazard assessment, visit the '''[https://nctr.pmel.noaa.gov/state/wa/index.html NOAA Center for Tsunami Research]''' website. ===Wildfires=== [[Wildfires]] are common between May and October, but can also occur at other times. Precautions include the following: clear the area around campfires in campgrounds, never leave flames unattended (even artificial ones), do not throw cigarette ends out of a car, and avoid unnecessary weapon use in dry areas.<!-- My understanding of laws in California is that the latter is illegal anyway. --> The strongest impact from fires is smoke. Smoke affects areas dramatically exceeding the size of the root fire. Travelers with respiratory issues should consult visitor information sites before visiting areas where fires are occurring, or anywhere in the path of the smoke, which can spread across large portions of the state during the worst wildfires. ===Mudslides=== Fire season is followed by the rainy season, and hilly areas where the vegetation has burned are particularly vulnerable to destructive and sometimes deadly mudslides. Heed any evacuation warnings that are issued. ===Wild animals=== '''[[Bears]]''' are found in the Sierra Nevada and all neighboring parts of the state. They're rarely dangerous, but should never be approached. If you are camping, you need to ensure that food, food waste, and other scented items such as soap and toothpaste are secure from them. '''[[Mountain lions]]''' are rarely seen, but live in all mountainous parts of the state and once in a while attack humans. If you see one, yell and wave your arms to make yourself appear as large as possible. '''Coyotes''' are quite common, even in relatively populated areas like the Hollywood Hills. They pose little danger to humans, but will attack dogs, cats and other domestic animals. Many animals, most notoriously bats, can carry rabies. When hiking, watch for [[ticks]], which can carry Lyme disease, and [[rattlesnakes]]. California is home to 2 potentially deadly species of spiders - the black widow and the brown recluse - if you don't go poking around abandoned structures and woodpiles, you're very unlikely to encounter them. If you're bitten by any animal, seek immediate medical attention. Shark attacks have happened once in a great while at California beaches, and deadly sharks such as great whites do roam the California coast, but unless a shark has been repeatedly sighted by a specific beach (the local media will broadcast warnings) this is an extremely remote possibility. ===Poisonous plants and mushrooms=== '''[[Poison oak]]''' can be found almost anywhere in the state, but is particularly common in Southern California, the Central Coast, the Bay Area, and any Coast Redwood woodlands. It's toxic throughout the year, even during the winter when it's lost its leaves. Sensitivity varies by individual, but many people can end up with a very nasty, blistering rash by contacting it. See the linked article for treatment options. California is also home to several '''lethal''' varieties of '''mushrooms''', which can be particularly dangerous to would-be gatherers because some of them resemble edible varieties found elsewhere in the world. Even if you're an expert on mushroom varieties where you live, don't assume you're safe gathering them in California. The poisonous oleander plant is native to California, and the ''Ricinus'' aka castor bean plant, which is the source of ricin and castor oil, is common there. ==Respect== California is filled with a very diverse group of people. Northern and Southern California have notably different cultures, while the rural areas in the Central Valley and Eastern portions of the state differ even more significantly. Sensitive topics include immigration, water rights, and land-use. Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area are especially well known for being some of the most politically liberal areas in the US, and continue to serve as some of the world's major centers of counterculture. Conversely, parts of California, particularly the Central Valley and most areas north of Sacramento, are conservative. However, don't assume any individual's political leaning based on where they live. * California's delicate ecosystem demands our utmost care. Conserving water, adhering to fire safety guidelines, and respecting wildlife habitats are fundamental. * Staying informed about the state's water crisis and adopting water-saving habits is crucial for preserving this precious resource. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== Many countries have consulates in and around [[Los Angeles#Consulates|Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco#Consulates|San Francisco]], with a much smaller number in [[San Bernardino#Consulates|San Bernardino]], [[San Diego#Consulates|San Diego]], and [[Sacramento#Consulates|Sacramento]]. In addition to the above, Mexico has consulates in Calexico, Oxnard, San Jose, Santa Ana, and Fresno. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are only available in the country's language. Some websites are available only in another language. ==See also== The following are additional Wikivoyage articles regarding the history and itineraries for travel within California. The articles also list places of historical or natural significance along the way: {{See also|North America itineraries}} * '''[[El Camino Real]]''' (''The Royal Road'') is a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of California. Stretching over 600 miles (1000 km) from San Diego in the south to Sonoma in the north, the route traverses much of the state and has been a popular traveler itinerary for California motorists for nearly a century. :* The '''[[Pacific Coast Highway]]''' is officially California State Route 1 (CA-1) is one of California's slower state routes, closely following the coastline, which in many places is dominated by cliffs and mountains. The alternatives, including '''[[U.S._Highway_101#California|US-101]]''' and '''[[Interstate 5#California|Interstate 5]]''' (with CA-1 sometimes concurrent with US-101), are for those who want to travel more quickly, while CA-1 is the best route for sightseeing California's beautiful coast. El Camino Real lines is best accessed from US Highway 101 and the Pacific Highway (CA-1) between San Diego and Sonoma. * '''[[Arroyo del Valle Trail]]''' is south of the city of Livermore, which is in the Bay Area region of California. The Arroyo Del Valle trail is part of a longer trail network that extends from Livermore, California, through the Diablo Range to Fremont, California at Mission Peak Regional Park. It's about 30 mi (48 km) in all and later parts of the trail network are quite remote, but the part described in this article is used by the general public more frequently than the rest of the hike due to its proximity to the cities of the Tri-Valley. * '''[[East Shore Trail]]''' goes from the northern staging area to the southeast staging area at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore, California. It is approximately 7 miles (11 km) long, with optional extensions at each end. * The '''[[Fiction tourism|Fictional tourism article]]''' aims at locations around the world famous from literature, motion pictures, television series, video games, comic books and other media. Numerous movies and television shows, such as [[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]], [[Terminator tourism|Terminator]], [[Cocoa Beach#Lori Wilson Park|I Dream of Jeannie]], [[Studio City#Brady Residence|Brady Bunch]], etc. have been filmed in Southern California which also served as a backdrop for many of these same films. [[Universal Studios Hollywood|Universal Studios]] even have a theme park to allow the public to get an up close tour of their production studios. * The '''[[Iron Horse Regional Trail]]''' is a biking and walking trail in the East Bay. Formerly a railroad for transporting fruit and grain, it's now a 32-mile (51-kilometer) paved "rail trail" through Concord, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Danville, San Ramon, Dublin, and Pleasanton. * The '''[[Ohlone Wilderness Trail]]''' is a hiking route in the East Bay. It goes from Livermore to Fremont in California across numerous mountain ranges and canyons, and is by no means an easy hike. * California has several dozen state parks that focus on historic locations. The '''[[Olompali–Petaluma–Sonoma historic parks]]''' just north of the San Francisco Bay have significant connections to the rancho era of Mexican Republic. This itinerary will take you through these three state historic parks in a day trip from the Bay area. Each is near a different city in California Wine Country. * The '''[[San Francisco Crosstown Trail]]''' crosses [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco]] from its northwestern edge at Lands End to its southeastern corner at Candlestick Point. Designed by a group of local volunteers, the route connects various hiking paths in local parks with sidewalks and staircases in residential neighborhoods to create a continuous 17-mile (27-km) trail. See also the [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco article]] for a list of in-city itineraries. ==Go next== * '''[[Arizona]]''' – Home to the [[Grand Canyon]], Arizona borders California to the southeast across the Colorado River. * '''[[Nevada]]''' – California's eastern neighbor is best known as the home of [[Las Vegas]], although towns such as [[Reno]] and [[Carson City]] are also good day-trip opportunities for visitors wanting to explore the Silver State. * '''[[Oregon]]''' – Sharing a border to the north, Oregon is home to impressive mountains and extensive forests. * '''[[Hawaii]]''' – Many visitors to America's fiftieth state depart through California on their journey across the Pacific, but it is not a neighboring state and requires a 5-hour flight to get there. * '''[[Baja California]]''' – Those traveling across the border to [[Mexico]] can visit some of that country's most impressive sea and landscapes. [[Tijuana]], [[Ensenada]] and [[Mexicali]] are also good day-trip options for visitors staying in Southern California to explore another country without going to far. {{usableregion}} {{isPartOf|United States}} {{geo|37|-119.5|zoom=6}} {{related|Off-road_vehicles_in_California}} {{related|California_desert_camping}} noifr0kbsmepigf6q468vulchuxhhcv 5288922 5288920 2026-06-06T17:40:07Z Anyone150 1516949 /* Itineraries */ 5288922 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Antelope Valley banner.jpg|caption=California Poppy Preserve in the Antelope Valley}} One of the most diverse states in the [[United States of America|Union]], '''California''' has a culture ranging from the easygoing surf spots on the beaches of [[Southern California]] to the glamor of [[Hollywood]], and the counterculture and thriving businesses of the [[Bay Area]]. The state, which is on the [[West Coast (United States)|west coast of the U.S.]], also varies greatly in natural beauty, from redwood forests on the [[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] to the ski resorts of the rugged [[Sierra Nevada]] mountains and the harsh desert of [[Death Valley]]. The largest state in the U.S. by population and the third largest by area, California boasts world-famous attractions and sights: [[Disneyland]], the [[Golden Gate Bridge]], the [[Napa Valley]] wine country, and the tallest mountain in the [[United States of America#Geography|contiguous United States]], [[Mount Whitney]]. Granted statehood in 1850 following the California Gold Rush, it bears the nickname "the '''Golden State'''", and the sites of the former goldfields are known as the [[Gold Country]]. ==Regions== California is geographically varied, ranging from warm beaches to snowy mountains to fertile farmland to extreme desert. In the middle of the state is the farmland of the Central Valley, which provides produce to the whole country. The conventional wisdom is that there is a huge difference—and also rivalry—between the Southern California area around Los Angeles (or as Californians often say, “LA”) and Northern California centered around the San Francisco Bay Area. There is also a cultural clash between the large liberal coastal cities, and more conservative parts of the state such as Orange County, the Central Valley, and the far northeast part of the state. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Ca-regions.png | regionmapsize=480px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]] | region1color=#b2b24d | region1description=Home to the world's tallest trees, the coast redwoods, as well as rugged coastlines and remote nature adventures. | region2name=[[Shasta Cascades]] | region2color=#c375a0 | region2description=Lakes and mountains off the beaten path in the state's northeast corner. | region3name=[[Sacramento Valley]] | region3color=#5bc7c0 | region3description=Home of [[Sacramento]], the state capital, and the urban areas around the city. | region4name=[[Gold Country]] | region4color=#d2d20d | region4description=Historic foothills leading east to the Sierras; the 1848 discovery of gold in this region brought many Americans to California and helped California become a state less than five years after the territory had been acquired. | region5name=[[Sierra Nevada]] | region5color=#5ea54a | region5description=California's alpine and skiing region, including [[Yosemite National Park]] and [[Lake Tahoe]]. | region6name=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]] | region6color=#d06666 | region6description=Home to the cities of [[San Francisco]], [[Oakland]], and [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]], as well as the technology-centered [[Silicon Valley]] and sophisticated [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. | region7name=[[San Joaquin Valley]] | region7color=#a0a0c0 | region7description=Breadbasket of California and home to a large percentage of America's fruit and vegetable supply. | region8name=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] | region8color=#5fb388 | region8description=An isolated stretch of land that features cool mountains and a rugged coastline. | region9name=[[Southern California]] | region9color=#ac663d | region9description=Home to the metropolis of [[Los Angeles]], as well as [[San Diego]], [[Disneyland]], [[Hollywood]], and miles of famous beaches. | region10name=[[Desert (California)|Desert]] | region10color=#d5a90b | region10description=Palm trees, Joshua trees, blazing sun, ghost towns and quirky resorts. Miles of [[Route 66]]. Home of [[Death Valley National Park|Death Valley]] and [[Joshua Tree National Park]]s. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b2b24d|title=[[North Coast (California)|North Coast]]|wikidata=Q156186,Q109651,Q108087,Q156361}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c375a0|title=[[Shasta Cascades]]|wikidata=Q156374,Q156188,Q156350,Q109695,Q156340,Q109705,Q156342,Q156181}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5bc7c0|title=[[Sacramento Valley]]|wikidata=Q271601,Q271609,Q156377,Q196014,Q109709,Q108131}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d2d20d|title=[[Gold Country]]|wikidata=Q156370,Q109681,Q156353,Q156177,Q108093,Q271613,Q156346,Q156191}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5ea54a|title=[[Sierra Nevada]]|wikidata=Q108077,Q156366}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d06666|title=[[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]]|wikidata=Q108117,Q108067,Q108137,Q108083,Q108058,Q107146,Q62,Q108101,Q108122,Q110739}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a0a0c0|title=[[San Joaquin Valley]]|wikidata=Q108499,Q108503,Q109690,Q109661,Q271915,Q156358,Q109686,Q108047}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#5fb388|title=[[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]]|wikidata=Q108072,Q109656,Q49014,Q108106,Q108127}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#ac663d|title=[[Southern California]] and [[Desert (California)|Desert]]|wikidata=Q104994,Q5925,Q108143,Q169952,Q108111,Q108053,Q109670}} ==Cities== [[File:San Francisco with approaching fog.jpg|thumb|400px|San Francisco, partly enshrouded in fog]] {{mapframe}} Here are a few of California's most notable cities, listed from north to south. <!--Please note: This is just a sampler of the cities most visited, with some geographic spread. If you want to add a new city, please locate the correct sub-region article that your city resides in and add the city there instead. --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Eureka]]|url=|lat=40.801944|long=-124.163611|wikidata=Q488702}} – former logging town with charming Victorian city center, waterfront trails, and Redwood Sky Walk featuring the world's tallest tree species. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Redding]]|url=|lat=40.576667|long=-122.370278|wikidata=Q495361}} – Sundial Bridge and gateway to a plethora of outdoor adventures ranging from underground caverns to some of the highest volcanic peaks in the United States. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Sacramento]]|url=|lat=38.555556|long=-121.468889|wikidata=Q18013}} – the laid-back state capital with historic Gold Rush-era quarter of the city, Old Sacramento. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Francisco]]|url=|lat=37.7857 |long=-122.4061 |wikidata=Q62}} – Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, America's largest Chinatown, cable cars, and Victorian houses. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Jose (California)|San Jose]]|url=|lat=37.333333|long=-121.9|wikidata=Q16553}} – south of San Francisco, this city is the center of Silicon Valley, and is home to many technology companies and the (in)famous Winchester Mystery House. *{{marker|type=city| name=[[Santa Barbara]] | lat=34.421 | long=-119.698| wikidata=Q159288}} – city on a south-facing coast which styles itself, with some justification, as "the American Riviera." *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Los Angeles]]|url=|lat=34.05|long=-118.25|wikidata=Q65}} – the state's largest city, and 2nd-largest in the nation. L.A. is home to Hollywood, Venice, The Getty Center, and Griffith Park. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Palm Springs]]|url=|lat=33.830278|long=-116.545278|wikidata=Q488004}} – desert recreation with golf, spas, resorts, casinos, and the famous aerial tramway. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[San Diego]]|url=| lat=32.7157 | long=-117.1547 ||wikidata=Q16552}} – Balboa Park, Old Town, SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, and nearby Tijuana, Mexico. ==Other destinations== [[File:4076-joshua-tree RJ.JPG|thumb|[[Joshua Tree National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Big Sur]]|lat=36.27028|long=-121.80750|wikidata=Q859413}} can be loosely defined as the stretch of coastline between Carmel and San Simeon, and the steep cliffs, rocky coast, churning waves, abundant wildlife, redwoods, and remoteness make it a stunningly beautiful drive. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Death Valley|Death Valley National Park]]|lat=36.45|long=-117.09|wikidata=Q242111}} – a place of legend and a place of trial. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Disneyland]]|lat=33.8091|long=-117.9190|wikidata=Q1229066}} – this world-famous amusement park opened its doors in 1955 and today draws around 16 million yearly visitors. The California Adventure theme park was added in 2001 and provides attractions inspired by the state's scenery and movie industry. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Joshua Tree National Park]]|lat=33.86|long=-115.89|wikidata=Q735202}} – combines two different desert ecosystems anchored by the peculiar-looking namesake tree species. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Tahoe]]|lat=39.091667|long=-120.041667|wikidata=Q169962}} – a deep blue mountain lake, popular for water sports in the summer and skiing in the winter. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Napa Valley]]|lat=38.50|long=-122.32|wikidata=Q1151105}} – the premier wine region of the United States, with spas, wine tasting and wine tours; the historic heart of [[California Wine Country]]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]|lat=36.56472|long=-118.77337}} – these twin parks hold monuments to nature's size, beauty, and diversity, including the largest tree on Earth, the General Sherman Tree. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Yosemite National Park]]|lat=37.7333|long=-119.5500|wikidata=Q180402}} – one of the first wilderness parks in the United States, the site of natural wonders such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and numerous waterfalls. California also has [[California state parks|many state parks]], approximately half of which are near urban centers. This is in addition to the state's eight [[United States national parks#California|national parks]] found across the state. ==Understand== [[File:Mission Santa Clara.jpg|thumb|Mission [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]]]] ===History=== {{see also|Indigenous cultures of North America|Old West}} Human settlement in California goes back 50,000 years; California was home to 30 different tribal groups prior to the arrival of European explorers in the 1500s and now over 120 tribes are left. The first Europeans to discover what is now California were the Spanish and Portuguese. Spanish colonialism was established through '''[[El Camino Real|twenty-one missions]]''' built throughout California by the late 1700s. These missions still survive today, stretching from [[San Diego]] on the Mexican border to [[Sonoma]] in the northern San Francisco Bay Area. After the Mexican War for Independence in 1821, California became a part of [[Mexico]] for 25 years until 1846, when many of its residents declared a sovereign nation (the '''California Republic''', also called the ''Bear Flag Republic'') before it was annexed by the United States in 1846, and has since then had an image as the "land of opportunity" and the final destination of luck-seekers. The 1848 discovery of gold in the Sierra Nevada mountains kicked off the '''California Gold Rush''', and California's non-native population surged from 15,000 to over 300,000 within two years. People who moved to California during the Gold rush were often called "49ers", a term that was adopted as the name for the San Francisco [[American Football|football]] team. California became a state in 1850, and its population has increased steadily since then. [[Los Angeles]], a city which once boasted one of the longest streetcar networks in the world, boomed through defense contractors and later converted to a "freeway" city after the streetcars were dismantled. The city hosted Olympic Games twice (1932 & 1984) at times when the Olympic movement was in crisis and the games were largely seen as successes for the city as well as the Olympic movement. [[Post-war United States|In the post-war years]], California (especially the [[Bay Area]]) became a hotspot of counterculture, including popular music, the anti-war movement, and the LGBT community. Since the late 20th century, the state and in particular, the Bay Area, has been at the forefront of the Digital Revolution, with innovations such as personal computers and smartphones having been introduced through '''Silicon Valley'''. Today California is the most populous state in the US with over 38 million residents. Taken by itself, California would rank as one of the world's top ten economies and Californian places like Silicon Valley, Hollywood and San Francisco are known globally and have shaped not only American but world culture. Politically, California is seen as a solidly "blue" state: it has a two-thirds majority of Democrats in both chambers of the legislature and often provides the Democratic party with particularly left-wing ideas, especially on social issues. That said, the state actually contains a lot of political diversity, with conservative views prevalent in much of the state outside the densely populated Bay Area and Los Angeles County, particularly in the fertile but relatively sparsely populated [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. ===Landscape=== [[File:Giant sequoias in Sequoia National Park 2013.jpg|thumb|Sequoia National Park]] With over 160,000 square miles (411,000 km²), the landscape of California is vast and varied, and the stereotypical beach paradise is only the tip of the iceberg. The state contains extremes in elevation, with [[Mount Whitney]] at 14,505 ft (4,421 m) being the tallest mountain in the [[lower 48]] states, while less than 200 miles (320 km) away [[Death Valley]], at 282 ft (82 m) below sea level, is North America's lowest point. California's border to the west is made up of a rugged coastline along the Pacific Ocean. The coastal mountains rise up from the ocean and are home to redwood trees in their northern half. Moving eastward, the Central Valley bisects California from north-to-south, before giving way to the Sierra Nevada mountains, which are home to [[Yosemite National Park]], [[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]], and other natural wonders. The southeastern part of California is dominated by desert, which covers 25% of California's total area. The [[Mojave Desert|Mojave]] is a high desert, with elevations ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 ft (1,000 to 2,000 m) above sea level. This area receives less than six inches (152 mm) of rain each year. ===Climate=== [[File:Surfers At Steamer Lane Santa Cruz CA. - panoramio.jpg|alt=Surfers on the water|thumb|Wetsuits were invented in Santa Cruz because the ocean is so cold.]] The state's climate varies from subtropical at the coast to the brutal winters of the mountains to one of the world's hottest regions in the deserts. Rainfall is more common in the northern part of the state than in the south, and snow is rare except in the mountains. Most precipitation occurs during winter, but California experiences frequent droughts. This has prompted people to install drought-resistant landscaping. In some years, farms lie fallow due to lack of water for irrigation. The hottest temperature ever recorded in the Western Hemisphere, 134°F (56.6°C) was at Death Valley in 1913, and temperatures here regularly exceed 120°F (50°C) during the summer. In contrast, winter temperatures in the mountains can drop below 0°F (-20°C). In between these extremes there are great local variations in climate due to topography and the influence of the Pacific Ocean upon precipitation and temperature, with temperatures becoming increasingly moderated nearer the coastline. For swimming, the Pacific Ocean can be surprisingly cold even in July due to currents. September and October are the best months for swimming. Another surprise in coastal areas is the presence of cool temperatures and fog in the mornings through most of the year. To experience California as a sunny place, plan to sleep late. ===People=== California is a very diverse state with many ethnic groups. California has large populations of people of varied backgrounds such as Mexican, Salvadoran, Guatemalan, Armenian, Iranian, Jewish, Chinese, Russian, Filipino, Eastern Indian, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Thai, and Hmong. California also has large populations of African Americans and Native Americans. Although typically considered to be a liberal state, Californians have a wide variety of political views which tend to vary based on region. The Central Valley, [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]], San Diego, and Palm Springs area tend to be more conservative, while [[Los Angeles County]] and the [[Bay Area|San Francisco Bay Area]] are among the most progressive areas in the country. California is a large and diverse state, with different cultures in each region. ===Holidays=== California observes all the [[Holidays of the United States|federal holidays]], except Columbus Day, and adds Farmworkers Day on March 31st (or nearest weekday). However, some cities such as [[Coronado (California)|Coronado]] that have a large population of federal workers or military personnel do observe Columbus Day. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitcalifornia.com/ Visit California] website ==Talk== [[File:Golden Hour at Emerald Bay.jpg|thumb|Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe]] Although the California Constitution states that '''English''' is the official language of the state of California, in reality, California is a multilingual state. American English is the main language and '''[[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]''' is the ''de facto'' second language, and a knowledge of even rudimentary Spanish is useful in most cities from Sacramento to San Diego. Los Angeles has some of the largest Hispanic populations north of Mexico. The state is highly influenced by Spanish culture due to its history, and it is not uncommon to see store and street signs written in both English and Spanish. "Spanglish" (a mixture of English and Spanish) is often used and heard throughout the state. Even people with no Latino heritage whatsoever sometimes speak fluent Spanish or use common Spanish-derived expressions when speaking English. Most government offices and tourist attractions, as well as many businesses in California have at least a few employees who are bilingual in English and Spanish. In fact, some restaurants may have a workforce that is more fluent in Spanish than English. Due to a history of Asian immigration and influence, Asian languages such as Cantonese, Mandarin, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, and Hindi are also spoken among Asian Californian populations. The major cities also tend to have communities of essentially any ethnicity imaginable, and there is a good chance you can hear their language and have an opportunity to experience their cultures. San Francisco, for example, is home to a significant French community, while Los Angeles boasts quite a large Ethiopian neighborhood. ==Get in== [[File:Skyscraper Los Angeles Downtown 2013.jpg|thumb|Skyscrapers in Downtown L.A.]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Flying in the United States}} [[San Francisco International Airport]] ({{IATA|SFO}}) and [[Los Angeles International Airport]] ({{IATA|LAX}}) are the most popular entry points with a wide variety of flights from [[Europe]], [[East Asia]], [[India]], [[Oceania]] ([[Australia]], [[Fiji]], [[New Zealand]], [[Tahiti]], etc.), [[Latin America]] and from various cities in the U.S. on a variety of U.S. and foreign flag carriers. To a lesser extent there are also direct flights from the [[Middle East]] ([[Israel]], [[Qatar]], [[Saudi Arabia]], [[Turkey]] and the [[United Arab Emriates]]) to Los Angeles. They are however also the most crowded and the SFO-LAX route is one of the busiest air corridors in the world causing frequent delays due to congestion. Delays at San Francisco airport due to fog are also somewhat common. If coming from within the U.S. and from Mexico there are other alternate airports in California that are less crowded and may be closer to your final destination. They are: :* Los Angeles area – [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Hollywood-Burbank Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]] (closest to Hollywood and Downtown Los Angeles), [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa_Ana_(California)|Orange County]] (closest to Disneyland & Knott's Berry Farm), [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario International Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}) in Ontario (closest to Joshua Tree and the Inland Empire deserts), and [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach Airport] ({{IATA|LGB}}) in [[Long Beach]]. :* San Francisco Bay Area – [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport] ({{IATA|OAK}}) in Oakland (closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose Airport] ({{IATA|SJC}}) in San Jose (closest to Silicon Valley), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] ({{IATA|STS}}) in [[Santa Rosa (California)|Santa Rosa]] (closest to Wine Country). Both San Francisco and Oakland airports are now connected to the local metro network, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a bus route 10 to the 'Santa Clara Station'. :* [[San Diego International Airport]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) in San Diego :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento Airport]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) in Sacramento :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno Airport]] ({{IATA|RNO}}) in [[Reno]], Nevada is closer to [[Lake Tahoe]] than from Sacramento. :* [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno Airport] ({{IATA|FAT}}) in Fresno, closest to Yosemite NP and the major airport in the [[San Joaquin Valley]]. :* Palm Springs ({{IATA|PSP}}) :* Central Coast – Monterey ({{IATA|MRY}}) (closest to Big Sur), San Luis Obispo ({{IATA|SBP}}) (closest to Hearst Castle), and Santa Barbara ({{IATA|SBA}}). :* [[Harry_Reid_International_Airport|Las Vegas]] ({{IATA|LAS}}), Nevada is closer to Death Valley NP than from Los Angeles or Ontario. :* [[Tijuana#By plane|Tijuana Airport]] ({{IATA|TIJ}}) in Tijuana. If coming from Mexico it may be more advantageous to fly to Tijuana on a (Mexican) domestic flight and then cross into San Diego by ground transportation or through its second terminal (CBX) on the American side of the border than on an international flight to San Diego, Los Angeles, or other cities further north. From San Diego, you can continue north to the San Francisco Bay area, Las Vegas, [[Phoenix]] or wherever in the U.S. you are continuing to. See [[California#By plane 2|By plane]] under the "Get Around" section for more information. ===By train=== {{see also|Rail travel in the United States}} [[Amtrak]] serves several routes into and out of California. If you are going to Los Angeles from the Central Valley, you might have to change to a bus for the last part of the trip, as the only railway connection between the Central Valley and Los Angeles is also one of the busiest freight lines in the United States. Plans to build a new [[high speed rail]] line to link San Francisco and Los Angeles are underway, but completion is not scheduled before the late 2020s. The following Amtrak routes serve California and terminate in [[Los Angeles#By train|Los Angeles]] or [[Emeryville]]: * The ''[[California Zephyr]]'' runs daily between [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] and [[Emeryville]] with connections in [[Omaha]], [[Denver]], [[Provo]], [[Salt Lake City]] and [[Reno|Reno/Lake Tahoe]]. This train also stops in the Sierra Nevada (Truckee and Colfax) and the Sacramento Valley (Roseville, [[Sacramento]], Davies and Martinez). Emeryville is the nearest Amtrak station to downtown San Francisco where passengers transfer to the Amtrak Thruway bus to continue across the bay to San Francisco. * The ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' runs daily between Los Angeles and [[Seattle#By train|Seattle]] via [[Portland (Oregon)#By train|Portland]], [[Klamath Falls]], [[Redding]], [[Bay Area (California)|San Francisco Bay Area]], Santa Barbara, [[San Luis Obispo]] and [[Oxnard]]. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/southwest-chief-train.html Southwest Chief]'' runs daily from [[Chicago#By train|Chicago]] via [[Kansas City]], [[Albuquerque]], [[Flagstaff]], Williams Junction (nearest stop to the [[Grand Canyon]]) and [[Kingman]] to Los Angeles. It also makes stops in the Mojave Desert ([[Needles]], [[Barstow]] and [[Victorville]]); the [[Inland Empire]] ([[Riverside]] and [[San Bernardino]]) and Orange County ([[Fullerton]]) and on its way into Los Angeles. * The ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/sunset-limited-train.html Sunset Limited]'' runs three times a week from [[New Orleans]] via [[Houston]], [[San Antonio]], [[El Paso]], [[Tucson]] and [[Yuma]]. Additionally, Amtrak's ''[http://www.texaseagle.com/ Texas Eagle]'' service between San Antonio and Chicago incorporates the Sunset Limited to provide a direct connection to Los Angeles with the same stops as the Sunset Limited between San Antonio and Los Angeles. This train also stops in the Inland Empire ([[Pomona]], Ontario and Palm Springs). Train services are limited to two token lines with hardly any real transport value in Mexico and there are ''no'' passenger rail service to anywhere near the U.S./Mexican border from anywhere in Mexico. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to California. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''By bus'' under ''Get around'' in the below for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By car=== All major road entrances (including entrances from other U.S. States) to California have agricultural inspection stations to ensure that some fruits and vegetables do not cross into a region where they may come into contact with the farms in the [[Central Valley (California)|Central Valley]]. Often, travelers are subject to border inspection (somewhat strict for domestic travel) and asked if they have been on a farm or are carrying organic matter with them. ==Get around== California is the third largest state of the U.S. by area (after [[Alaska]] and [[Texas]]). It compares in size with [[Sweden]]. However, getting around California can be simple. ===By car=== [[File:California State Route 1 in Marin County.jpg|California State Route 1|thumb|right|250px]] [[File:405 southbound near Getty Museum.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Interstate 405 in Los Angeles]] In addition to interstates and US highways, California has one of the most expansive state highway systems in the United States. As with all long-distance trips in the United States, a car is generally the best way to get around and see destinations, especially rural ones. However the trip from the northern end of California to the southern end can take well over ten hours as the state's varied and in places rugged terrain can pose obstacles to the road network. The coast routes (State Route 1 and U.S. 101) are much slower and windier than Interstate 5, and GPS travel estimate times may be inaccurate, especially on Highway 1. Most California drivers are courteous and careful (although speeding is rampant), and the safety and ease of driving in California is comparable to most wealthy countries. Exceptions may be found in the most congested areas of San Francisco and Los Angeles &mdash; where potholes, road rage and reckless driving are commonplace &mdash; and some country roads in mountain ranges. Information about vehicle collisions and other non-congestion traffic problems on highways are reported online at [https://www.chp.ca.gov/traffic chp.ca.gov/traffic]. Traffic congestion is tracked by most online map sites. Gasoline prices are more expensive than in other parts of the U.S.; consider public transit in highly populated areas such as the Bay Area where prices are especially high. ====Freeway signage (and cautions)==== California uses the MUTCD (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices) lane marking system standard throughout the United States, in which dashed white lines divide lanes of through traffic and yellow divides opposing traffic (with single dashed indicating passing and double solid indicating no passing). In many urban areas the lane markings are replaced by Botts dots for additional tactile feedback when crossing lanes. The network of freeways in major population centers is often confusing and intimidating to those unfamiliar with the area, so having a good map is very helpful. The great majority of exits from freeways are on the right. At interchanges between freeways, in most cases, the flow of traffic continues through the left lanes with the transition to the other freeway being in the right lanes. At some freeway interchanges, Caltrans (California Dept. of Transportation) is notorious for posting advance direction signs that do not correctly explain which lanes correspond to which ramps. Additionally, Caltrans does not always post signs warning of upcoming lane drops or merges. For example, where a freeway has three through lanes and the central lane splits into two lanes, thus resulting in two ramps with two lanes each, the advance signage may incorrectly imply that only the right lane will break off for the upcoming right-side ramp, thus causing visitors driving in the middle lane to merge unnecessarily into the right lane. And the two lanes on the right-side ramp may suddenly merge into each other without any warning. These issues frequently result in visitors making wild last-minute lane merges. Approach major freeway interchanges in California with caution. Mile-based exit numbering is in progress but is still very erratic in areas; an exit number may not be marked at all, may be marked on the last directional sign before the exit, or may be marked on the final "Exit" sign where the exit ramp separates. ====Ramp meters==== In urban areas, the access ramps to a freeway may have traffic lights for each lane (called ramp meters or ramp metering lights; you'll see warning signs that read "meter on"). During high-traffic times, the traffic light spaces out the vehicles attempting to merge onto the freeway. Be sure to read the sign below the light as ramps can allow 1 to 3 vehicles per green light. Most ramp meters are for ramps from local roads to a freeway, but some freeway junctions have meters on their ramps too. ====Toll roads and bridges==== Most highways are freely accessible and toll-free. However, California has some toll bridges, toll roads, and tolled Express Lanes. Toll road and bridges are indicated on road signs. When a toll-free road flows directly into a toll road or bridge, there is sometimes a sign for "last exit before toll". FasTrak electronic toll collection (ETC) via toll transponders or tags is used for all toll facilities. Cash is no longer accepted. FasTrak is not compatible with any other state's ETC system. Some California toll authorities also allow online pay-by-plate, but if no signage mentions it, assume it is unavailable. If you drive a vehicle through a toll gantry without an active FasTrak account and the toll authority has no pay by plate option, you may receive an expensive ticket for nonpayment of toll. In Northern California, all major bridges in the San Francisco Bay Area have toll plazas, with tolls charged on traffic in only one direction. The plazas are unmanned and will be replaced with gantries for open-road tolling, but for now, drivers must slow to 20 mph to pass through them. Southern California has several toll roads in Orange County which use open-road tolling. "Express Lanes" are high-occupancy (HOV) lanes (carpool lanes) that non-high-occupancy vehicles can often use by paying a toll. Electronic signs will indicate whether the Express Lane is "open to all" (no toll is charged) or "HOV only" (only HOVs eligible for toll-free access may use the lane). If the signs show a price in dollars and cents, it means that non-HOV vehicles may use the Express Lane but will be charged that toll. During times of severe traffic congestion, Express Lanes may charge tolls of $20 or more per vehicle. HOVs are supposed to be exempt from tolls in Express Lanes. Some Express Lane operators require all HOVs to carry FasTrak Flex transponders to signal their toll-free status. If you are legally using a free carpool lane and a sign warns it will turn into a tolled Express Lane, you must merge immediately back into regular lanes if you do not have FasTrak Flex. ====HOV/carpool lanes==== Some freeways have a high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane on the far left. This lane, also called the carpool lane or diamond lane, is marked by: * a diamond symbol painted on the road surface * signage on the wall separating the two sides of the freeway, with the diamond symbol * a double yellow line on the road surface (only in Southern California) Some freeway access ramps have carpool lanes too; often, the non-carpool lanes will have ramp meter traffic lights while the carpool lane has none. In most cases, the carpool lane is only for vehicles with 2 or more persons inside, motorcycles, and clean-air vehicles with [https://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/carpool/carpool.htm government-issued "Access OK" stickers]. Sometimes, 3 or more persons and/or a FasTrak transponder may be required, so check the signage before entering a carpool lane. Carpool lane restrictions may be enforced 24 hours a day every day, or only when the signage says so (in those cases, it's usually only during rush hour on weekdays). Carpool lanes in Southern California have limited access points marked by a dashed white line. This is the only point at which a vehicle may legally enter or exit a carpool lane, since you are not allowed to cross a double yellow line. The minimum fine for unlawful use of a carpool lane is $490. ====Traffic safety and law enforcement==== All persons in a moving vehicle are required to wear a seatbelt and the driver and all passengers can be individually ticketed for failing to do so. Motorcycle riders must wear a helmet. Cellphone users are required to use a hands-free headset if talking on the phone while driving. Texting by the driver is illegal, as is any action on the phone that forces the driver to touch it more than once (and even single-touch actions are only allowed if the phone is mounted securely rather than hand-held). Unless otherwise signed, right-turns are permitted at red lights following a full stop. If it is raining hard enough to require you to use your windshield wipers, California law requires that your headlights be turned on. Most California police officers carry radar guns to catch speeding drivers. The California Highway Patrol occasionally flies aircraft overhead to spot speeders and help ground units home in on their positions. Red light enforcement cameras are in use at many urban intersections, but are marked only by a single "photo enforced" sign before the intersection. Speed enforcement cameras are being piloted in a few cities, including San Francisco and Los Angeles; the cameras are small and hard to spot. California's laws against driving under the influence of alcohol are very strict; the maximum permissible blood alcohol concentration is 0.08%. All drivers are strongly encouraged to call 911 to report drunk drivers. California requires disabled out-of-state visitors to apply at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for a travel placard for handicapped parking. It is valid for 90 days. Travelers with a non-US driver's license are generally permitted to drive in California. However, travelers who are in California for more than 10 days with some kinds of visas, especially the K-1 non-immigrant visa for future spouses, have run into some difficulties over their place of residence. The DMV refuses to issue drivers' licenses to people with non-immigrant visas, but police have filed charges against some of them for becoming a California resident without promptly obtaining a California license – the very license that the State refuses to issue on the grounds that they haven't legally become residents yet. This risk may be reduced by giving your non-California address as your place of legal residence if stopped by police. Unlike most states, "lane-splitting" by motorcyclists (i.e. riding down the painted lines between traffic lanes) is legal in California and commonly done in heavy traffic. It's only legal when traffic is going slower than 30 mph, and motorcyclists are only allowed to go 15 mph faster than the general flow of traffic, but many motorcyclists seem to treat this as more of a guideline than a hard and fast rule. As a result, if you're driving a car, take extra care to watch for motorcycles when changing lanes on a major highway. ====Major highways==== [[File:California State Route 1 All American Road sign.jpg|150px|thumb|right|A California State Highway sign. The poppy sign below it indicates that it is a state scenic route]] Here are some important highways in California: * [[File:I-5.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 5]]:''' Runs between San Diego, Los Angeles, and Sacramento, then north into Oregon and Washington. :*[[File:California 99.svg|22px]] '''State Route 99:''' Runs along the California Central Valley between Red Bluff, Sacramento, Stockton, Modesto, Fresno and Bakersfield as the Golden State Freeway. * [[File:I-8.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 8:''' Runs between San Diego, Calexico, Yumma, and Casa Grande, Arizona. * [[File:I-10.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10]]:''' Runs between Santa Monica, Los Angeles, the Inland Empire and Palm Springs, then over the Colorado River into Arizona and points east. * [[File:I-15.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 15:''' Runs between San Diego, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Las Vegas, Nevada and points north. * [[File:I-40.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 40:''' Runs between Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona, towards Oklahoma City and points east. Interstate 40 bypasses or replaces the old Route 66 between Barstow and Oklahoma City (as County Rd 66 in San Bernardino County). :* [[File:US_66_(historic).svg|22px]] '''[[Route 66|Historic Route 66]]:''' Now decommissioned, historically connected Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, Barstow, Needles, then into Arizona and points east. It runs alongside I-40 between Barstow and Oklahoma City and alongside or concurrent with I-15 between Barstow and San Bernardino. * [[File:I-80.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 80#California|Interstate 80]]:''' Runs between the Bay Area, Sacramento, Reno, Nevada, and points east. * [[File:I-405.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 405:''' Runs {{mile|72}} between Northridge and Irvine via Van Nuys, LAX, Culver City, Long Beach, Santa Ana, and point in between as an auxiliary by-pass of I-5 through the Los Angeles Area. * [[File:I-580.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 580:''' Connects the San Francisco Bay Area with Interstate 5 in the Central Valley * [[File:US 50.svg|22px]]'''U.S. Highway 50:''' Runs between Sacramento, South Lake Tahoe, Carson City, Nevada, and points east * [[File:US 101.svg|22px]] '''[[U.S._Highway_101|U.S. Highway 101]]:''' Runs between Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, then close to the California Coast to the San Francisco Bay, Eureka and points north :* [[File:California 1.svg|22px]] '''[[Pacific Coast Highway|State Route 1]]:''' Runs up the California Coast between Orange County, Los Angeles, Monterey, the Bay Area, and [[Fort Bragg]] * [[File:US 395.svg|22px]] '''[[U.S._Highway_395|'U.S. Highway 395]]:''' Runs along the Eastern Sierras, connecting the Inland Empire and High Desert with Bishop, Reno, and Susanville, then into Oregon and points north ====Taxis and rideshares==== Taxis and rideshare services (Uber and Lyft) are widely available in and around California's largest cities: San Francisco, Los Angeles (including Orange County), San Diego, and Sacramento. They are less likely to be available in small towns and rural areas. ====Robotaxis==== Waymo operates a robotaxi service with self-driving vehicles in two service areas: one on the San Francisco Peninsula from San Francisco to downtown San Jose, and another in the western part of Los Angeles south of the Santa Monica Mountains, from downtown Los Angeles to Santa Monica and as far south as Inglewood. However, Waymo does not yet have authorization to provide service to Los Angeles International Airport. Only San Jose International Airport allows Waymo unrestricted access to pick up and drop off passengers. Waymo is now able to drive on freeways, and it can also pick up and drop off at San Francisco International Airport, but only at the Rental Car Center (10 minutes to the terminals via AirTrain tram). Both features are subject to wait lists, making them less useful to new users. ===By plane=== [[File:LAX LA.jpg|Los Angeles International Airport|250px|thumb|right]] Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state. [https://www.aa.com American/American Eagle]; [https://www.united.com/ United/United Express]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.delta.com Delta], [https://www.southwest.com Southwest], [https://www.jetblue.com JetBlue], [http://www.jsx.com Jet Suite X (JSX)], [https://www.spirit.com Spirit] and [https://www.alaskaair.com Alaska Airlines] offer intrastate flights within the state of California. San Francisco is a hub for United and Alaska; while Los Angeles is a hub for United, American/American Eagle, Delta, JetBlue and Alaska Airlines. The LAX-SFO route is one of the busiest in America which means competitive fares and delays are frequent which is only made worse by the fog that tends to hit San Francisco bay on a regular basis. In addition, the airlines offer flights from different airports in [[Southern California#By plane|southern California]] in the south; to the [[Bay_Area_(California)#By plane|SF Bay area]] and to Sacramento in the north at competitive rates. A route between lesser-known airports (say, Burbank to Oakland) may save you money and avoid airport chaos compared to LAX-SFO. The primary airports served by major US carriers, Volaris (from Mexico) and Aeromexico (from Mexico) in California are in: :* Los Angeles area – [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles International]] ({{IATA|LAX}}), [https://www.hollywoodburbankairport.com/ Burbank-Hollywood Airport (Bob Hope Airport)] ({{IATA|BUR}}) in [[Burbank#By plane|Burbank]], [https://www.ocair.com/ John Wayne Airport] ({{IATA|SNA}}) in [[Santa Ana_(California)|Orange County]]; [[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario Airport]] ({{IATA|ONT}}), and a small airport in [https://www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ Long Beach] ({{IATA|LGB}}) :* San Francisco Bay Area – [[San Francisco International Airport|San Francisco]] ({{IATA|SFO}}), [https://www.iflyoak.com/ Oakland San Francisco Bay] ({{IATA|OAK}}), [https://www.flysanjose.com/ San Jose] ({{IATA|SJC}}), and [https://sonomacountyairport.org/ Sonoma County Airport] (Charles M. Schulz Airport) ({{IATA|STS}}) in Santa Rosa; both San Francisco and Oakland airport are now connected to the metro, BART, while San Jose is connected by Caltrain via a free shuttle at the 'Santa Clara Station'. Oakland is closer to Downtown San Francisco than SFO is and offers a fog-free alternative. :* [[San Diego#By plane|San Diego]] ({{IATA|SAN}}) :* [[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento]] ({{IATA|SMF}}) :* [[Reno#By plane|Reno]] ({{IATA|RNO}}), Nevada closer to the Lake Tahoe area than Sacramento The busiest second tier airports are [https://flyfresno.com/ Fresno] ({{IATA|FAT}}) (nearest to Yosemite NP); [https://flysba.santabarbaraca.gov/ Santa Barbara] ({{IATA|SBA}}); and [https://flypsp.com/ Palm Springs] ({{IATA|PSP}}). There are also flights from major hubs to [[Arcata]]/McKinleyville (nearest to Eureka), Bakersfield, Crescent City, El Centro, Mammoth Lakes, Merced, Monterey, Redding, San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, and Stockton. ===By train=== The state's various rail services provide a cheap and reasonably comfortable way to see and get around much of the state [[USA without a car|without a car]]. '''[[Amtrak]]''' operates a few long-distance routes through and out of California, as well as the three Amtrak California routes: :* San Luis Obispo-Santa Barbara-Los Angeles-Anahiem-San Diego on the ''[https://www.pacificsurfliner.com/ Pacific Surfliner]'' :* Oakland/Sacramento-Stockton-Fresno-Bakersfield on the ''[https://goldrunner.com/ Gold Runner]'' (which has a connecting Thruway bus service to Los Angeles) :* San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Auburn on the ''[https://www.capitolcorridor.org/ Capitol Corridor]'' :* Los Angeles-Santa Barbara-San Luis Obispo-San Jose-Oakland-Sacramento-Redding-(continues to Seattle) on the ''[[Coast Starlight]]'' :* Emeryville (San Francisco connection)-Sacramento-Truckee (near Lake Tahoe)-(continues to Chicago) on the ''California Zephyr'' :*Los Angeles-Palm Springs-(continues to Chicago) on the Sunset Limited :*''Amtrak Thruway Motorcoaches'' connects additional cities and towns to/from the Amtrak (train) network by bus such as Santa Cruz-San Jose; San Francisco-Emeryville; Bakersfield-Los Angeles; Bakersfield-Las Vegas; Martinez-Arcata; Redding-Sacramento; etc. Amtrak has seen continuously increasing ridership in most of the US for more than a decade now, and surprisingly enough three of the six most popular Amtrak routes run through California, thus making them a viable alternative to the more often than not congested roads and airports. In addition, there are several commuter and regional services in the state's metro areas: :*''[https://www.caltrain.com/ Caltrain]'' San Francisco-Palo Alto-San Jose-Gilroy through the famous Silicon Valley. :* ''[https://acerail.com/ Altamont Commuter Express]'' San Jose-Stockton through the Altamont Corridor Express. :* ''[https://www.bart.gov/ BART]'' operates in the Bay Area, connecting much of the East Bay (Oakland, Berkeley, Walnut Creek) to San Francisco and SFO. :* ''[https://metrolinktrains.com/ Metrolink]'' runs regional train service throughout the greater Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura County (metropolis) region on multiple routes. :* ''[https://gonctd.com/services/coaster-commuter-rail/ COASTER]'' runs along the coast of San Diego County between downtown San Diego, Carlsbad and Oceanside. :*''[https://gonctd.com/services/sprinter-hybrid-rail/ SPRINTER]'' runs across Northern San Diego County between Escondino and Oceanside with bus and train connections to Los Angeles and San Diego. :*''[https://www.sonomamarintrain.org/ Sonoma-Marin Rail (SMART)]'' runs between Santa Rosa and San Rafael in Marin/Sonoma County (Northern Bay Area) with ferry connections to San Francisco There are also light rail systems in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Jose. Almost all of these systems are being expanded or upgraded to cope with rising ridership, so expect more and better service in years to come. ===By bus=== {{see also|Long-distance bus travel in the United States }} The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There are fairly frequent service from [[Los Angeles#By bus|Los Angeles]] to [[San Francisco#By bus|San Francisco]]/[[San Jose_(California)#By bus|San Jose]]; [[San Diego#By_bus|San Diego]]/[[Tijuana#By_bus|Tijuana]]; [[Las Vegas#By_bus|Las Vegas]]/[[San Bernardino#By_bus|San Bernardino]] and [[Sacramento#By bus|Sacramento]] with on multiple routes with various bus companies. There are other the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns which are not listed, check the article of your destination for all the transportation options. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/california/ here]. * {{listing | name=Eastern Sierra Transit | alt= | url=https://www.estransit.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 760 872-1901 | tollfree=+1 800 922-1930 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Operates 'local' buses along US Hwy 395 corridor between Mammoth Lake, Bishop and Lone Pine in Mono and Inyo Counties in the eastern 'Desert' and the Sierra Nevada parts of the state. They have a route continuing north to Carson City & Reno from Mammoth Lake and south to Lancaster from Lone Pine. The area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway buses }} * {{listing | type=go | name=El Paso Los Angeles Limousine Express | alt= | url=https://www.eplalimo.com/ | email= | address=(downtown LA depot) 622 E 6th St | lat= | long= | directions=SW corner of E 6th St & Wall St across the street from police station | phone=+1 213 623-2323 and +1 323-265-3232 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Travels along I-10 between Los Angeles, [[Indio]], Phoenix, [[Las Cruces]] and El Paso on one route and on I-15 to Las Vegas & North Las Vegas on another route. They have additional stops in E. Los Angeles, El Monte and [[Colton]] on their way on both routes. They also have a second depot at 4425 S Atlantic Blvd in E Los Angeles. }} * {{listing | name=Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.flixbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 626-8585 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-06-14 | content=The German bus company, Flixbus, connects Los Angeles to Las Vegas, Phoenix, Sacramento, SF Bay Area and San Diego via multiple cities en route in Arizona and California. It has grown rapidly through subcontracting its operations, which has the downside for customers that the buses are not of a consistent style or quality. In October 2021 they had merged with Greyhound Lines (see below) but, maintain separate brands. Tickets and schedules with Greyhound and Flixbus can be searched and purchased through each other's websites. }} * {{listing | name=Green Tortoise | alt= | url=https://greentortoise.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 415 956-7500 | tollfree=1 800 867-8647 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates something like a 'hippie' bus that serves as a bus by day with stops to visit different places like a bus tour throughout the day and a RV camper by night in different campgrounds. It offers bus tours and camping trips to Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Death Valley Sequoia and along the coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Some of its tours involve a 3- to 5-day round trip from the point of origin such as from San Francisco to Yosemite NP and back while others are one way where the journey starts from one place and end in the other like from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree and end in Las Vegas. Even with round trips it is possible to ask to be picked up or dropped off in different places than the point of origin/return. Others like its 'Hostel Hoppers' or 'Express' are a straightforward bus ride from point A to B. It is one way to combine 'taking the bus' from one place to another and to visit and see remote places without a private automobile. }} * {{listing | name=Greyhound , Cruceros-USA, Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1 800 231-2222 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Greyhound goes to 100 locations statewide, though these are not all actual stations, some are merely stops. In general, Greyhound serves the same routes that Amtrak does along the main highways. In some cases Greyhound is cheaper, faster, and more frequent than Amtrak. Flixbus tickets can also be searched and purchased on Greyhound's website }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Hoang Express | alt= | url=https://www.xedohoang.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 714 839-3500 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=$60-65 to Bay Area; $80 to Sacramento | content=Travels between SoCal (San Diego, El Monte, Los Angeles, [[Westminster (California)|Westminster]]); Bay Area (San Francisco, San Jose & Oakland) and to Sacramento on another route from Los Angeles. They also offer service from Los Angeles to Arizona (Phoenix, [[Chandler (Arizona)|Chandler]] and [[Tempe]]. }} * {{go | name=International Bus Lines | alt=formerly Intercalifornias | url=https://www.ibuslines.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 629-4885 | tollfree=+1-888-834-9336 | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination | content=Connects Tijuana, San Ysidro (just over the border), Santa Ana, Los Angeles, San Fernando, Bakersfield, Fresno, and San Jose/[[Stockton (California)|Stockton]] (route splits/joins in Madero) and several other places in between. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=LuxBus | alt= | url=https://www.luxbusamerica.com/ | email= | address=on request for hotel pick up/drop off | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-877-610-7870 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Operates to/from [[Las Vegas]], [[Anaheim]], and [[San Diego]]. }} * {{listing | name=Mendocino Transit Authority (MTA) | alt= | url=https://mendocinotransit.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-08 | content=Travels extensively in the North Coast region along Hwy 1 from Ft Bragg to Navarro River Junction (#65), Point Arena (#75), Bodega Bay and Santa Rosa (#95). Another route from Ft Bragg to Willits, Ukiah and Santa Rosa along SR-20 and US Hwy 101 (Rt #65). Much of the area is not served by Greyhound or Amtrak Thruway Buses off the US Hwy 101 corridor. }} * {{listing | name=Sage Stage | alt= | url=https://sagestage.com/ | email= | address=(bus stops) Rite Aide @ 5th & Main in Alturas | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 530 233-6410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-18 | content=Provides public transportation from Alturas and Canby in Modoc County, in the [[Shasta Cascades]], to [[Redding]]; [[Reno]], NV; and [[Klamath Falls]], OR on three separate routes. }} * {{listing | name=Santa Barbara Airbus | alt= | url=https://www.sbairbus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 805 964-7759 | tollfree=+1-800-423-1618 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-08-05 | content=Eight trips a day from [[Los Angeles International Airport|LAX]] to [[Carpinteria]], [[Santa Barbara]] and [[Goleta]]. }} * {{listing | name="Cabin" | alt=formerly Sleep Bus | url=https://www.ridecabin.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-25 | content=Overnight service to the Los Angeles area (Ocean & Arizona Ave in Palisades Park in [[Santa Monica]]) from San Francisco (Bayside Lot @ 1 Bryant St). This is an actual sleeper bus featuring twin size bunk beds with privacy curtains, power outlets, and free wifi. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Tufesa | alt= | url=https://www.gotobus.com/tufesa/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 213 489-8079 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Prices vary depending on your destination |lastedit=2022-11-30| content=Connects Los Angeles to Sacramento (via Bakersfield, Fresno, etc); to Salt Lake City (via Barstow, Las Vegas, St George, etc); to Hermosillo (via Phoenix, Tucson, Nogales); San Francisco Bay Area; and to Tijuana (via Santa Ana, San Diego/San Ysidro). }} * {{listing | name=Yarts | alt= | url=https://yarts.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-22 | content=Operates regularly scheduled buses from Yosemite NP (Visitors' Center) to Fresno, Merced, Mammoth Lakes & Sonora on four separate routes. }} ===By foot=== *The [[Pacific Crest Trail]] crosses the length of California on its way from [[Mexico]] to [[Canada]] *The [[American Discovery Trail]] connects California with [[Nevada]] and the East Coast. ===By boat=== *Ferry service is limited, but can be a scenic, relaxing, and fun way to travel. Major services exist in the [[Bay Area]], to the [[Channel Islands (California)|Channel Islands]] and to [[Catalina Island]] near Los Angeles. Several of the smaller coastal towns have water taxi services within their city. Check as the stops and limited and the schedules may seasonal. *Many cities are along the coast, or else on navigable waterways, and you can dock your own boat there. == See == [[File:Us-ca-sanfran-goldengate.jpg|thumb|Golden Gate Bridge in [[San Francisco]]]] As the most geographically and culturally diverse state in the U.S., California offers an endless amount of things to see and do; even when you think you've experienced everything in one area of the state, a short trip to another part has plenty more to offer. Incredible and unique scenery, some of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, centuries old historical sites, unending cultural and entertainment options {{snd}}no matter where your interests lie, California will almost certainly offer it. ===Natural attractions=== [[Image:16-yosemite-half-dome.jpg|thumb|Half Dome at [[Yosemite National Park]]]] From white-sand beaches to snowcapped mountains, with lush forests and arid deserts in between, no other state offers such a wide a variety of natural landscapes as California does. California hosts the largest number of [[United States national parks|U.S. national parks]] with a total of nine. The most famous of these is '''[[Yosemite National Park]]''', featuring thundering waterfalls and geological behemoths like El Capitan and Half Dome. The surrounding [[Sierra Nevada]] also hosts nearby '''[[Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]]''' which are both home to some of the world's largest living organisms, the giant sequoia. '''[[Redwood National Park]]''' in the far northwestern corner of the state and the surrounding area feature the world's tallest species of trees, the coast redwood. Tired of forests? The California desert is the site of some of the hottest and most arid places on Earth. '''[[Death Valley National Park]]''' is the location of the highest ever recorded temperature on the planet. If deserts are not your thing, beaches and California are practically synonymous. '''[[Big Sur]]''' and '''[[Point Reyes National Seashore|Point Reyes]]''' are notable examples of a scenic, winding stretch of unspoiled coastline that is typical of Northern California, featuring rocky cliffs and towering redwood trees that meet thundering ocean waves. Further south, the water is much warmer and suitable for all-day beach trips. Here, world-class beach towns such as '''[[Santa Barbara]]''', '''[[Malibu]]''', and those of '''[[Beach Cities|Orange County]]''' offer opportunities to catch waves, practice beach volleyball, or simply lounge around and tan underneath palm trees. If high-altitude adventure is what you are seeking, California has that too. At an elevation of 14,505 feet (4,421 meters) above sea level, '''[[Mount Whitney]]''' is the highest mountain in the lower 48 states. Snow activities such as skiing and snowboarding are plentiful in '''[[Lake Tahoe]]''' in the winter, while hiking and water recreation such as boating are popular in summer. [[File:Silver Lake.jpg|thumb|Silver Lake is in the [[Sierra Nevada|Sierra Nevada Range]] of eastern California]] While the national parks may receive most of the attention, California has the largest [[California state parks|state park system]] in the United States. These protected areas are found in places ranging from being adjacent to national parks to green landscapes in the middle of cities that offer a respite from the hectic urban rush. California's high population and its climate have also led to the creation of numerous [[Reservoirs in California|reservoirs]]. California marine animals (native and migrating) are easily found in the wild along the state's beaches, in lagoons and estuaries, such as sea otters, grey whales, elephant seals, harbor seals, sea lions as well as multitudes of tide pools dwellers including crabs, sea stars, anemone, and sea urchins. Timing is key: go at low tide to see lots of marine life. ===Monuments and architecture=== California has long been a canvas for architects and engineers to design and build some pioneering structures or to popularize styles that would define a time period. With two of the most prominent cities in the United States, [[Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco]], this is certainly notable with many of the structures and buildings that are found there. San Francisco is home to engineering marvels such as the '''Golden Gate Bridge''', Lombard Street (the most crooked street in the world), and cable cars that seemingly glide up and down the hills between the waterfront and rest of downtown. The many skyscrapers such as the Transamerica Pyramid have all been specifically designed to withstand powerful earthquakes. The stately '''Palace of Fine Arts''' and charming Painted Ladies of Alamo Square have served as backdrops countless of times for the city by the Bay. As the epicenter of the global entertainment industry, the '''Hollywood Sign''' is an icon of Los Angeles recognized worldwide. The nearby Hollywood Walk of Fame, Capitol Records Building, and numerous theaters all solidify the city's hold on entertainment. The Griffith Observatory and Walt Disney Concert Hall are also notable features in the cityscape, as is the imposing '''Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum''', the site of the 1932 and 1984 Summer Olympics. Other notable landmarks outside these two cities include the '''California State Capitol''' in [[Sacramento]] (modeled after the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.), labyrinthine '''Winchester Mystery House''' in [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]] with eerie origins, and the lavish '''Hearst Castle''' in the Central Coast town of [[San Simeon]] that anchors the landscape of the surrounding area. ===Historical sites=== From former Native American sites to suburban garages where modern technology was invented, California's centuries-long history is preserved in numerous historical sites and museums that are scattered throughout the state. One of the most comprehensive collections of state history from prehistory to contemporary times is housed in the '''Oakland Museum of California''' in [[Oakland]], with a vast collection of nearly 2 million items related to California history, art, and science. The legacy of Spanish colonial times remains with the string of '''twenty-one missions''' that span the length of much of the state from '''Mission San Diego de Alcalá ''' in the San Diego's [[San Diego/Old Town-Mission Valley|Old Town]] (founded in 1769) up to '''Mission San Francisco Solano''' in the Bay Area town of [[Sonoma]] (founded in 1823). Perhaps the most beautiful of these though, is '''Mission Santa Barbara''', which lent its name to [[Santa Barbara|the same city]] and is rightfully referred to as the "Queen of the Missions". '''El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument''' in downtown [[Los Angeles]] is another historical feature from the Spanish era, although the neighborhood underwent a major transformation during the period of Mexican rule (1821 to 1848) that now gives the area a distinct Mexican atmosphere, particularly along Olvera Street. Spain was not the only European power that colonized California, however. '''[[Fort Ross]]''' in the northern edge of the Bay Area was the southernmost Russian outpost in North America and was in operation from 1812 to 1841. Gold Rush legacies live on in [[Gold Country]], located in the northeastern part of the state. Following the discovery of gold at '''Sutter's Mill''' in [[Coloma (California)|Coloma]] in 1848, hundreds of thousands of fortune seekers from around the world made their way to California, establishing dozens of towns, most of which still retain their Old West charm and atmosphere. '''Old Sacramento''' in the [[Sacramento|state's capital city]] also sprung up as the commercial and transportation center of this era, with places of interest including the first terminus of the '''First Transcontinental Railroad''' and related California Railroad Museum. '''Cannery Row''' and much of the rest of [[Monterey (California)|Monterey]] provide a glimpse of the state's once lucrative fishing and canning industry during the first half of the 20th century, with carefully preserved wooden buildings that housed factory workers and engines, along with rustic (and still active) piers. ===Motion picture sets=== Countless [[fiction tourism|films and television series]] have been set in California. Much of the production is made within the 30-mile (50-km) studio zone around Los Angeles, but sceneries across the whole state are famous from the movies. Some franchises with their own itineraries are ''[[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]]'', ''[[Easy Rider]]'', ''[[Fast and Furious tourism|Fast and Furious]]'', ''[[Forrest Gump tour|Forrest Gump]]'', ''[[Kill Bill tourism|Kill Bill]]'' and ''[[Terminator tourism|The Terminator]]''. ===Itineraries=== *[[El Camino Real]] (The Royal Road) &mdash; a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of Alta California (modern day state of California) offering a fascinating look into California's history. El Camino Real is most accessible via [[Pacific Coast Highway|Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1)]] and [[U.S. Highway 101]]. *[[Pacific Coast Highway]] &mdash; tour up and down the iconic California coast, along [[Big Sur]], all the way up to its end where it merges into the US 101, which goes up to Washington state. * [[U.S. Highway 395]], [[Interstate 5#California|Interstate 5 & CA-99]], [[Interstate 10]], [[Interstate 80]], and the [[Lincoln Highway]] are major highways through California with their own Wikivoyage article. * The old [[Route 66]] (formerly US 66) was a highway in the United States that extended from Chicago to Los Angeles. It crossed much of the American Midwest, Great Plains, and Southwest. In California it winds its way from Santa Monica, across the San Gabriel Valley to San Bernardino as CA-66. From San Bernardino goes up towards Barstow as County Rd 66 where it continues east on or alongside Interstate 40 towards Kingman, Arizona. ==Do== [[File:Hollywood sign 053004.jpg|thumb|[[Hollywood]]]] * '''Ski''' at one of the great resorts near [[Lake Tahoe]] or [[Big Bear Lake|Big Bear]]. * Try your hand at '''surfing''' or work on your tan in [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]] or [[Santa Monica]]. * The long coastline offers some great [[Scuba diving in California|California scuba diving]]. * Go '''winetasting''' at one of the countless vineyards dotting [[California Wine Country|Wine Country]]. * Climb a mountain and camp in the [[Sierra Nevada]] or [[Shasta Cascades]]. * See California's amazing wildflowers. From March through May, the [https://theodorepayne.org/ California Wildflower Hotline] at +1 818 768-3533 offers the latest information on the best places to view wildflowers throughout Southern and Central California. The hotline and website are updated every Thursday evening. More than 90 wildflower sites are included. The hotline, founded in 1983, is run by the Theodore Payne Foundation for Wild Flowers and Native Plants. * Listen to music at the '''[http://www.northerncaliforniabluesfest.com Northern California Blues Festival]{{Dead link|date=October 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. The fastest growing festival of its kind comes in June to Sacramento County around Father's day each year and usually features a spectacular line-up of Blues artists. Event benefits Through the Mind, a non-profit providing free alternative mental health to America's Veterans. * Visit one of the many '''theme parks''', such as [[Disneyland]] or [[Six Flags Magic Mountain]]. ==Buy== {{see also|Shopping in the United States}} Usually US dollars and common credit or debit cards are the only accepted modes of payment. Many stores can take contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. You might have some luck with Mexican pesos near the immediate border area, but the exchange rates are usually terrible. California stores no longer give out free plastic bags, except for fresh grocery produce and meats. Reusable plastic bags cost a minimum of ten cents (by state law). Many stores sell cloth bags for one or two dollars. The state sales tax is 7.25%. However, counties and cities are allowed to levy their own sales taxes on top. In most areas you visit, the actual sales tax will be around 8% or 9%. In certain parts of the counties of Alameda and Los Angeles, actual sales tax is over 10%. In California, sales tax is levied on sales of nearly all tangible personal property. The main exceptions are regular groceries (including cold food-to-go) and prescription drugs. Hot prepared food is also usually taxed, with the exception of hot baked goods sold to go as standalone items. The state does not refund sales tax to travelers. The quintessential California souvenir depends a lot on which part of the state you visited, and what your interests are. The agricultural products change from citrus and avocadoes down south to strawberries in the middle, to almonds and wine as you move north. In LA, you might take home chocolates from See's Candies; in the Central Coast, keep an eye open for locally produced saltwater taffy; in the Bay Area, it's all about Ghirardelli Chocolate. Common themes for souvenir items include surfing, tie-dyed clothing, and redwood trees. ==Eat== {{See also|American cuisine|Fast food in the United States and Canada}} California doesn't have a single, well-defined cuisine of its own, but rather has a remarkably diverse food scene defined by its large population of immigrants of varied ethnic backgrounds and its access to one of the most productive agricultural regions on this side of the planet. The culinary style referred to as ''Californian cuisine'' or ''California fusion'' focuses on imaginative fusions of other cuisines, typically with heavy attention to presentation and an emphasis on using freshly prepared local ingredients, and has been somewhat subsumed into the general trend of "New American" cuisine. Even diners and small mom-and-pop fast food grills have elements of fusion cuisine, as it is common in California for them to serve both burgers and Mexican food. Californians take fresh food for granted. Most food you will eat in California was harvested within 300 miles (480 km) of your plate, with the exception of certain cereals and tropical crops. California is the leading global source of tree nuts (almonds, pistachios, walnuts) and also leads North America in the production of dairy products and many kinds of fruits and vegetables. Out-of-season crops are usually imported from South America, especially Chile and Brazil. With such a bounty for restaurants to draw upon, almost any dish you can imagine can be found somewhere in California. The cuisines of the Americas and Asia are heavily represented, and those of nearly every other country are also available to a lesser extent. More "North American" fare includes everything from burger shacks to vegetarian, organic and even completely vegan restaurants; the Californian love for food has made it one of the most diverse restaurant scenes in North America. The large cities have the most variety, while things get simpler and more meat-heavy as you get more rural. There are a handful of distinctive California dishes, although most of them have been adopted and adapted throughout the US. * Cobb salad – a cold salad of bacon or ham, chicken, boiled eggs, avocado, tomato, lettuce, and bleu cheese, with a vinaigrette dressing. Traditionally it's chopped fairly fine, but in modern times it's served in a variety of ways, and sometimes with ranch dressing instead of the traditional vinaigrette. It was invented at the Brown Derby restaurant in LA. * French dip sandwich – invented somewhere in LA, the exact location is subject to dispute, but it's a warm sandwich of thinly sliced roast beef on a roll that's dipped into beef broth. * Cioppino – a seafood stew developed by Italian immigrants in San Francisco, it resembles various Italian fish stews but includes local ingredients like chopped Dungeness crab. * The Mission Burrito – a San Francisco tradition characterized mainly by its great size and caloric content, featuring copious amounts of beans and rice in addition to cheese, meat and/or vegetables. * California Burrito – a San Diego specialty, it's a carne asada (spicy grilled steak) burrito, stuffed with french fries. * Santa Maria Barbeque – This is a central coast tradition. It's a bottom sirloin beef roast (the cut is locally known as tri-tip), where the fat hasn't been trimmed. It's suspended high above a hot oak fire, fat side up, so it cooks slowly and the fat melts and tenderizes the meat. It's usually served thinly sliced with tortillas or bread, salsa, onions, avocado, and other side dishes. *Chop Suey – the original "American Chinese" dish was popularized as cheap food for laborers during the California gold rush. While it's increasingly hard to find, many other American Chinese dishes were first created in San Francisco's Chinatown. Larger cities in California have some restaurants selling American Chinese food and others selling traditional Chinese dishes. In smaller cities, the Americanized version may be the only option on the menu. As a general rule, plain water is free at any restaurant. However, if you need a disposable cup, the cup will cost you 25 cents (by state law). You are allowed to bring your own reusable water cup or bottle. ===Regional chains=== California's classic burger chain '''In-N-Out''' has expanded to states as far east as [[Texas]]—see [[Fast food in the United States and Canada]] for more. Outside of fast food, California chains that you'll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere include: * {{eat | name=Ike's | alt= | url=https://www.ikessandwich.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-06-22 | content=Casual sandwich joint with more than 50 locations, mostly in California though a few are in Nevada. The menu varies by location, but in general about half the menu has meat and half is vegetarian; many vegetarian options can be made vegan. The sandwiches are filling and flavorful but not excessively heavy. }} *{{listing | name=Farmer Boys | alt= | url=https://www.farmerboys.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5435711 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=A farm-to-table restaurant chain featuring a burger shack menu that is freshly cooked from local produce. Hamburgers, sandwiches, and salads, plus diner-style breakfast options served all day. }} *{{listing | name=Lemonade | alt= | url=https://lemonadela.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=locations are mostly in Southern California, plus two in San Francisco | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$15 | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=Poke bowls, chef bowls, sandwiches, and 10 different types of freshly made lemonade. This is California fusion food without the high-end budget. Take your friend who's always bored with the same-ol' stuff. Don't neglect the side dishes. Vegan options. }} ==Drink== Generally, alcohol is available in more places in California than it is in other states. A person with valid ID of age can purchase alcohol at supermarkets or liquor stores; these are regulated by the state but not owned or controlled by them. All but the smallest communities have restaurants or bars that sell beer. Some places are permitted to have a bar in one part of their establishment, and six-packs of beer for sale and offsite consumption in another part. California is known for its fine [[wine]]s and gourmet beers. As of March 2026, there are 154 established American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) across the state of California, which is the highest number of any state. [[Napa Valley|Napa]], [[Sonoma Valley|Sonoma]] and [[Mendocino County|Mendocino]] are premier wine districts north of San Francisco, but there are others in the Central Coast region ([[Paso Robles]], [[Solvang]]) and even down near [[Temecula]] where suitable microclimates have been found. The inland Central Valley region (especially near [[Lodi (California)|Lodi]]) has hotter summers and traditionally produced inexpensive bulk wines, but quality has been improving with winemaking innovations. For beer, California also has a lot of microbreweries. Sierra Nevada, in [[Chico (California)|Chico]], is one of the biggest microbreweries in North America. In the [[Central Coast (California)|Central Coast]] the mid-sized brewery Firestone Walker in Paso Robles is a good addition to the local wineries in the area; [[Ventura]] has had several microbreweries over the years. In [[San Diego]], Stone Brewing Company offers a great variety of beers that can be purchased throughout the state. Los Angeles has several microbreweries, especially in the Arts District. There are over 200 microbreweries in California, and many bars in large- and mid-size cities that have 20 or more beers (often both foreign and domestic and ranging from light beer to flavored stouts) on tap. In addition to microbreweries, there are a handful of distilleries in California; one even makes date vodka. === Legal issues === Californians tend to view wine as a natural accompaniment of food or socializing, overlooking its alcoholic content more easily than with distilled spirits. However police crackdowns on drinking and driving are noticeable, with roadblocks and random checks. Conviction for driving with a blood alcohol level over .08 percent is likely to bring serious legal and financial consequences. Drivers with a lower blood alcohol can still be convicted for '''DUI''' (driving under the influence) if they fail field sobriety tests, such as walking a straight line. You must be 21 years of age to buy or drink any alcoholic beverage. Underage drinking is taken very seriously, so if you want a drink and appear to be under 30, you should be ready to present identification showing your age. The only acceptable proof-of-age documents are [[passports]] from any country, and identity documents issued by US government agencies (e.g., drivers' licenses issued by any US state). Foreign drivers' licenses and foreign identity cards are ''not'' legally acceptable as proof-of-age documentation, and people who are unable to produce a passport or valid United States ID will be refused service. Only original identity documents will be accepted; photographs or photocopies will not be accepted. ==Stay healthy== ===Air pollution=== While [[air pollution]] levels have dropped dramatically since the 1970s, more than ninety percent of Californians live in counties with unhealthy air. Visitors to the mountains or the rural regions of Northern California will have nothing to worry about, but the overreliance on cars, low rainfall, and surrounding mountains in Los Angeles, the Central Valley, and the Bay Area create some of America's worst air quality. It gets particularly bad when a layer of cold air gets "trapped" by a layer of warmer air above it ("inversion") which is particularly likely in basins. While air quality is rarely at levels that would be considered immediately dangerous, visitors should heed alerts and be especially cautious when any local wildfires are burning. Occasionally, there will be an '''advisory''' issued for air stagnation, which is a phenomenon involving an air mass that cannot move and therefore stagnates over an area for an extensive period of time. Air pollutants can cause breathing difficulties for those with existing respiratory conditions. If you have a respiratory condition, refer to the '''[https://airquality.weather.gov/ National Weather Service]''' website on air quality to see if any such advisories have been issued for the areas you might visit. ===Disease=== [[File:MOUSE, CALIFORNIA (peromyscus californicus) (5-29-09) cerro alto campground road, slo co, ca -01 (3577515146).jpg|alt=California deermouse|thumb|This cute, large-eared mouse and its tan-colored siblings can carry a deadly virus.]] Deer mice can transmit a virus that causes '''hantaviral pulmonary syndrome'''. You are most likely to get infected if you breathe in dust containing their excrement (feces, urine, and saliva). Realistically, however, hantavirus is of very little concern to the traveler, as only a few people get infected each year, and most of them are exposed on the job, but sensible precautions should be applied. Do '''not''' venture in any wild animal's den or touch deer mice or their excrement. If you need to clean up after rodents, wear waterproof gloves, eye protection, and a high-quality respirator mask, and use disinfectants and wet-mopping techniques, rather than brooms and vacuums (both of which spread virus-laden dust). If you do get infected, treatment usually involves a week or two in the hospital. The main defense against the virus is prevention. ==Stay safe== [[File:Elephant seals fighting.jpg|thumb|Elephant seals fighting, [[San Simeon]]]] ===California–Mexico border=== Due to California's proximity to the international boundary with Mexico, visitors should be cautious while in areas near the border. * Beware Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) checkpoints and patrols. CBP is legally allowed to stop you or your vehicle solely in order to inquire about your citizenship and residency status within 100 miles (160 km) of any international border (in this instance, the US–Mexico border). ''Non-whites, and especially Latinos, should expect to be profiled, targeted, and harassed by these government agents.'' *Know where you are at all times. Follow good safety procedures and use common sense when making decisions. * Do not pick up [[Hitchhiking|hitchhikers]]. If the person is undocumented or carrying drugs, you could be mistaken for a trafficker. * Keep valuables, including spare change, out of sight and lock your vehicle. * Avoid traveling in well-marked but unofficial "trails." * Avoid hiking or camping in areas of major border activity. If you are visiting a national or state park, consult park staff to help plan backcountry travel in safer areas. ====Crossing the border==== Thousands of U.S citizens visit the state of [[Baja California (state)|Baja California, Mexico]] from California every year, with the majority of travelers returning from an enjoyable experience. However, a minority of travelers do experience difficulties and serious inconveniences while traveling to Mexico. Before traveling to Mexico, ensure that you have the proper documentation and are familiar with the recommendations for foreign travel from the '''[https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Mexico.html U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs]''' There are six border crossings between California and Mexico: two between San Diego and [[Tijuana]], one between [[Tecate]] and Tecate, two between [[Calexico]] and [[Mexicali]], and one between Andrade and [[Los Algodones]]. The United States operates a consulate-general in Tijuana and a consulate in Mexicali. Mexico operates Consulates in Calexico, Fresno, Los Angeles, Oxnard, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose and Santa Ana. ===Crime=== The usual inner city crime can be found in the worst parts of [[Los Angeles]], [[San Francisco]], and [[Oakland]]. Central Valley cities, such as [[Sacramento]], [[Stockton (California)|Stockton]], and [[Fresno]] also have gang problems. Northern coastal cities such as [[Eureka]] have an ongoing problem with significant drug activity and property crimes. However, most California cities are safe. As long as you take basic precautions against petty crime, such as keeping your phone and other valuables out of sight in tourist areas, and stay out of obviously run-down neighborhoods, you will probably have a safe and pleasant visit. If you are traveling along the '''Pacific Coast Highway''' or '''Highway 101''', you may notice there are a substantial number of hitch-hikers along the way. Most are harmless youthful travelers or people who just need to get somewhere for lack of other means, while others may be a bit less safe to pick up. Use your best judgement, and, unless you feel confident in the people to whom you're giving a ride, it's probably better not to offer one while you're travelling alone. '''Drugs''' are illegal in California, with the noted exception of '''[[cannabis|marijuana]]'''. Adults 21 and over are allowed to possess, use, and cultivate small amounts of marijuana, so long as it is not consumed in public or possessed on the grounds of a school or day care center. The maximum amount a person may possess is one ounce of marijuana or 8 grams of concentrates. Some dispensaries sell marijuana products to the general public, although others remain restricted to those who have a medical marijuana recommendation from a doctor. Delivery services are also available. Marijuana is still illegal under federal law, so do not carry marijuana across state lines—even to another state where it is legal—as this will be considered drug trafficking and subject to harsh punishment. Also, do not take marijuana onto federal land, including any of the dozens of national parks and national forests in California, or onto flights even within California, as the TSA is a federal agency. If you find yourself in an emergency situation (of any kind), dial '''9-1-1''' on your phone or from any (available) phone. It is a free call from a payphone. ===Earthquakes=== {{Infobox|Earthquake early warnings|Since 2019, California has rolled out an earthquake early warning system called [https://www.shakealert.org/ '''ShakeAlert'''], whose alerts can be received by most smartphones. There are [https://earthquake.ca.gov/get-alerts/ '''various methods'''] that mobile devices can receive alerts for ''imminent'' shaking: * '''Wireless Emergency Alerts''' (WEAs) are sent to capable mobile devices with cellular reception that have ''not'' opted out from receiving emergency alerts. They will appear as an urgent notification with brief instructions to safety coupled with an attention-grabbing sound. * '''Earthquake early warning mobile apps''' can push live notifications to devices when the warning system detects an occurring quake. Such apps typically require enabling '''active location services''' to determine if the device is located inside the area of possible impact. The United States Geological Survey provides [https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/how-do-i-sign-shakealertr-earthquake-early-warning-system '''information about apps for iOS and Android that utilize the ShakeAlert system.'''] * '''Many newer Android devices''' can receive earthquake alerts natively without needing to download an app. This system also requires '''enabling location services''' to determine if it's located in the impacted zone. These alerts will appear either as a notification bar for weak quakes or a full-screen alert for strong quakes with instructions to '''drop, cover, and hold'''. Wireless Emergency Alerts are sent for earthquake events exceeding magnitude 5.0 ''and'' in areas expected to receive shaking intensity of light (Mercalli intensity IV) or greater. For Android alerts, expect to receive them for events exceeding magnitude 4.5 ''and'' in areas where weak shaking (Mercalli intensity III) or stronger is expected. Mobile apps may provide options to customize the threshold of intensity to receive an alert. Warning times are limited to '''seconds''' before the arrival of shaking, and will vary depending on the distance from the epicenter. If you are located at or near the epicenter, you may receive an alert ''during or after'' shaking arrives! Warning times tend to improve the further you are from the epicenter – up to tens of seconds of warning even at a far distance.}} [[Earthquakes]] that are large enough to cause extensive damage are rare, but remain a matter of reality for the state. Most earthquakes are mild and last for a couple of seconds. You're not likely to encounter one during your trip, but if you do, you'll probably go home with nothing more exciting than a story about it being over before you figured out that it was an earthquake. When you feel the shaking, act quickly to '''drop, cover, and hold on'''. The biggest dangers in an earthquake are falling objects (such as books or bottles flying off shelves – or the whole shelf with all of its contents, if it's not properly mounted) and windows, which may shatter explosively. In the event of an earthquake, '''face away from windows''' and '''hide under any sturdy table or desk''' – and then hold on to that table, because the shaking could cause the table to slide across the floor. Contrary to popular belief, do not stand in a door frame; these are structurally weaker spots in modern buildings, and they provide no protection against falling objects. If you are indoors, '''do not run outside!''' Falling building facades are more likely to cause severe injuries than anything inside. If outdoors, stay away from buildings (especially brick chimneys, which may spray bricks around a large area), and stay out from under power lines. If you are driving, your first thought will probably be that something is wrong with your car. Immediately slow down and then stop at the nearest safe place. When the shaking is over (the ground ''and'' your nerves), it's okay to start driving again, but drive cautiously, as traffic signals will likely be out, the road surface may be cracked, other drivers may be panicking, and there may be trees or damaged vehicles blocking the road ahead. ===Deserts=== Along the southern most border of California-Nevada, as well as the border of California-Arizona, California has elaborate desert landscapes which extend into the south central regions of the state, the most famous (or infamous) being the region known as [[Death Valley]], where several tourists and hikers have indeed met their fate while exploring the region. If you are planning on traveling or hiking into these locations, '''follow desert survival guidelines'''. Be sure to take plenty of water (at least one gallon/four litres per person, per day), sunscreen and wear light clothing. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Be sure to have a full tank of gasoline prior to traveling by car into these regions, as many desert locations are extremely remote and without any services for several miles (in some cases nearly 100 miles / 160 km). To break down in these regions could be extremely unpleasant in the best case scenario, tragic in the worst. Also, it is best to hike during the earlier part of the day, as thunderstorms tend to develop suddenly during the afternoon. In the event you encounter inclement weather conditions, seek high ground immediately! Thunderstorms can cause flash flooding in canyons and other low-lying areas. ===Tsunamis=== The incidence of earthquakes in California raises the concern for potential threats of tsunamis. Though tsunamis occur very rarely, a great deal of California's coastline is in a tsunami zone. For more information on the state's hazard assessment, visit the '''[https://nctr.pmel.noaa.gov/state/wa/index.html NOAA Center for Tsunami Research]''' website. ===Wildfires=== [[Wildfires]] are common between May and October, but can also occur at other times. Precautions include the following: clear the area around campfires in campgrounds, never leave flames unattended (even artificial ones), do not throw cigarette ends out of a car, and avoid unnecessary weapon use in dry areas.<!-- My understanding of laws in California is that the latter is illegal anyway. --> The strongest impact from fires is smoke. Smoke affects areas dramatically exceeding the size of the root fire. Travelers with respiratory issues should consult visitor information sites before visiting areas where fires are occurring, or anywhere in the path of the smoke, which can spread across large portions of the state during the worst wildfires. ===Mudslides=== Fire season is followed by the rainy season, and hilly areas where the vegetation has burned are particularly vulnerable to destructive and sometimes deadly mudslides. Heed any evacuation warnings that are issued. ===Wild animals=== '''[[Bears]]''' are found in the Sierra Nevada and all neighboring parts of the state. They're rarely dangerous, but should never be approached. If you are camping, you need to ensure that food, food waste, and other scented items such as soap and toothpaste are secure from them. '''[[Mountain lions]]''' are rarely seen, but live in all mountainous parts of the state and once in a while attack humans. If you see one, yell and wave your arms to make yourself appear as large as possible. '''Coyotes''' are quite common, even in relatively populated areas like the Hollywood Hills. They pose little danger to humans, but will attack dogs, cats and other domestic animals. Many animals, most notoriously bats, can carry rabies. When hiking, watch for [[ticks]], which can carry Lyme disease, and [[rattlesnakes]]. California is home to 2 potentially deadly species of spiders - the black widow and the brown recluse - if you don't go poking around abandoned structures and woodpiles, you're very unlikely to encounter them. If you're bitten by any animal, seek immediate medical attention. Shark attacks have happened once in a great while at California beaches, and deadly sharks such as great whites do roam the California coast, but unless a shark has been repeatedly sighted by a specific beach (the local media will broadcast warnings) this is an extremely remote possibility. ===Poisonous plants and mushrooms=== '''[[Poison oak]]''' can be found almost anywhere in the state, but is particularly common in Southern California, the Central Coast, the Bay Area, and any Coast Redwood woodlands. It's toxic throughout the year, even during the winter when it's lost its leaves. Sensitivity varies by individual, but many people can end up with a very nasty, blistering rash by contacting it. See the linked article for treatment options. California is also home to several '''lethal''' varieties of '''mushrooms''', which can be particularly dangerous to would-be gatherers because some of them resemble edible varieties found elsewhere in the world. Even if you're an expert on mushroom varieties where you live, don't assume you're safe gathering them in California. The poisonous oleander plant is native to California, and the ''Ricinus'' aka castor bean plant, which is the source of ricin and castor oil, is common there. ==Respect== California is filled with a very diverse group of people. Northern and Southern California have notably different cultures, while the rural areas in the Central Valley and Eastern portions of the state differ even more significantly. Sensitive topics include immigration, water rights, and land-use. Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area are especially well known for being some of the most politically liberal areas in the US, and continue to serve as some of the world's major centers of counterculture. Conversely, parts of California, particularly the Central Valley and most areas north of Sacramento, are conservative. However, don't assume any individual's political leaning based on where they live. * California's delicate ecosystem demands our utmost care. Conserving water, adhering to fire safety guidelines, and respecting wildlife habitats are fundamental. * Staying informed about the state's water crisis and adopting water-saving habits is crucial for preserving this precious resource. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== Many countries have consulates in and around [[Los Angeles#Consulates|Los Angeles]] and [[San Francisco#Consulates|San Francisco]], with a much smaller number in [[San Bernardino#Consulates|San Bernardino]], [[San Diego#Consulates|San Diego]], and [[Sacramento#Consulates|Sacramento]]. In addition to the above, Mexico has consulates in Calexico, Oxnard, San Jose, Santa Ana, and Fresno. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are only available in the country's language. Some websites are available only in another language. ==See also== The following are additional Wikivoyage articles regarding the history and itineraries for travel within California. The articles also list places of historical or natural significance along the way: {{See also|North America itineraries}} * '''[[El Camino Real]]''' (''The Royal Road'') is a historic road linking the 21 Spanish missions of California. Stretching over 600 miles (1000 km) from San Diego in the south to Sonoma in the north, the route traverses much of the state and has been a popular traveler itinerary for California motorists for nearly a century. :* The '''[[Pacific Coast Highway]]''' is officially California State Route 1 (CA-1) is one of California's slower state routes, closely following the coastline, which in many places is dominated by cliffs and mountains. The alternatives, including '''[[U.S._Highway_101#California|US-101]]''' and '''[[Interstate 5#California|Interstate 5]]''' (with CA-1 sometimes concurrent with US-101), are for those who want to travel more quickly, while CA-1 is the best route for sightseeing California's beautiful coast. El Camino Real lines is best accessed from US Highway 101 and the Pacific Highway (CA-1) between San Diego and Sonoma. * '''[[Arroyo del Valle Trail]]''' is south of the city of Livermore, which is in the Bay Area region of California. The Arroyo Del Valle trail is part of a longer trail network that extends from Livermore, California, through the Diablo Range to Fremont, California at Mission Peak Regional Park. It's about 30 mi (48 km) in all and later parts of the trail network are quite remote, but the part described in this article is used by the general public more frequently than the rest of the hike due to its proximity to the cities of the Tri-Valley. * '''[[East Shore Trail]]''' goes from the northern staging area to the southeast staging area at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore, California. It is approximately 7 miles (11 km) long, with optional extensions at each end. * The '''[[Fiction tourism|Fictional tourism article]]''' aims at locations around the world famous from literature, motion pictures, television series, video games, comic books and other media. Numerous movies and television shows, such as [[Back to the Future tourism|Back to the Future]], [[Terminator tourism|Terminator]], [[Cocoa Beach#Lori Wilson Park|I Dream of Jeannie]], [[Studio City#Brady Residence|Brady Bunch]], etc. have been filmed in Southern California which also served as a backdrop for many of these same films. [[Universal Studios Hollywood|Universal Studios]] even have a theme park to allow the public to get an up close tour of their production studios. * The '''[[Iron Horse Regional Trail]]''' is a biking and walking trail in the East Bay. Formerly a railroad for transporting fruit and grain, it's now a 32-mile (51-kilometer) paved "rail trail" through Concord, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Danville, San Ramon, Dublin, and Pleasanton. * The '''[[Ohlone Wilderness Trail]]''' is a hiking route in the East Bay. It goes from Livermore to Fremont in California across numerous mountain ranges and canyons, and is by no means an easy hike. * California has several dozen state parks that focus on historic locations. The '''[[Olompali–Petaluma–Sonoma historic parks]]''' just north of the San Francisco Bay have significant connections to the rancho era of Mexican Republic. This itinerary will take you through these three state historic parks in a day trip from the Bay area. Each is near a different city in California Wine Country. * The '''[[San Francisco Crosstown Trail]]''' crosses [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco]] from its northwestern edge at Lands End to its southeastern corner at Candlestick Point. Designed by a group of local volunteers, the route connects various hiking paths in local parks with sidewalks and staircases in residential neighborhoods to create a continuous 17-mile (27-km) trail. See also the [[San Francisco#Itineraries|San Francisco article]] for a list of in-city itineraries. ==Go next== * '''[[Arizona]]''' – Home to the [[Grand Canyon]], Arizona borders California to the southeast across the Colorado River. * '''[[Nevada]]''' – California's eastern neighbor is best known as the home of [[Las Vegas]], although towns such as [[Reno]] and [[Carson City]] are also good day-trip opportunities for visitors wanting to explore the Silver State. * '''[[Oregon]]''' – Sharing a border to the north, Oregon is home to impressive mountains and extensive forests. * '''[[Hawaii]]''' – Many visitors to America's fiftieth state depart through California on their journey across the Pacific, but it is not a neighboring state and requires a 5-hour flight to get there. * '''[[Baja California]]''' – Those traveling across the border to [[Mexico]] can visit some of that country's most impressive sea and landscapes. [[Tijuana]], [[Ensenada]] and [[Mexicali]] are also good day-trip options for visitors staying in Southern California to explore another country without going to far. {{usableregion}} {{isPartOf|United States}} {{geo|37|-119.5|zoom=6}} {{related|Off-road_vehicles_in_California}} {{related|California_desert_camping}} np4oocryroq5c788o2ihy3wacfd71rf 0 5640 5289039 5244131 2026-06-07T11:16:38Z ~2026-33710-81 2419532 /* Beaches and water sport */ Updated listing for Mundo Marino 5289039 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Calp Alicante Banner.jpg|caption=View of Calp from the Penyal d'Ifach}} [[File:Calp3.jpg|thumb|300px|View of Calpe with the ''Serra d'Olta'' in the background]] '''Calpe''' (Valencian: ''Calp'') is a town in the [[Costa Blanca]] region of [[Alicante (province)|Alicante]], [[Spain]]. It is a very popular tourist resort, especially with British and German tourists, and also has a large expat community. ==Understand== The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and the first permanent dwellings were built by the Iberians. Subsequently the Romans, Visigoths, and Arabs controlled the area, until the arrival of the Christian reconquista in the 13th century. From the 15th to 18th centuries the town and nearby coastal areas were ravaged by Barbary pirates; in a particularly egregious event in 1637 a large portion of the town's population was kidnapped by pirates and held hostage in Algiers for five years. Mass tourism began in the 1970s, leading to the rampant development of tracts of holiday homes, with high-rise apartment buildings built right on the main beaches. Since the financial crisis of 2008 the building boom has largely ceased. * {{listing | name=Tourist Information Calp Penyal | alt= | url=http://en.calpe.es/ | email=turismo@ajcalp.es | address=Avda Ejercitos Españoles, 44 | lat=38.64199 | long=0.06440 | directions= | phone=+34 965 839 693 | tollfree= | fax=+34 965 831 250 | hours=M-Sa 09:00-20:00 | price= | lastedit=2016-02-05 | content= }} ==Get in== {{Mapframe|38.6446|0.0584|zoom=14}} ===By plane=== [[Alicante]] has the nearest international airport. ===By train=== * {{go | name=Estación del TRAM | alt=Tram Station | url=http://www.tramalicante.es/page.php | email= | address=Partida Estación II | lat=38.6499 | long=0.0329 | directions= | phone=+34 900 720 472 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=es:Estación de Calpe (TRAM Alicante) | wikidata=Q10947859 | lastedit=2017-06-28 | content='''Tram Alicante''' (''el Trenet'') operates a light rail train connecting all major settlements along the coast between [[Dénia]] and [[Alicante]], with the exception of Xábia. The travel time from Alicante, which is easily reached from the rest of Spain by high-speed [http://www.renfe.com/EN/viajeros/index.html Renfe trains], is about 90 minutes, with a changeover in [[Benidorm]]. For travelers with smartphones, there is a helpful official app (iPhone and Android) with a route planner and timetables. A single journey costs €1.35-7.15, depending on distance. Guide dogs and small pets in carriers are permitted. Although Calpe station is not that far from the city center, it is too dangerous to walk there. It is safer to take a bus or a taxi. }} ===By bus=== * {{listing | name=Estación de Autobuses | alt=Bus Station | type=go | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.64690 | long=0.04455 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-02-01 | content=Within the region, [https://www.alsa.com/en/web/bus/our-destinations/regional/valencia-murcia '''Alsa'''] operates a route connecting all major coastal settlements between [[Valencia]] and [[Alicante]], including [[Cullera]], [[Gandía]], Oliva, [[Dénia]], Calpe, [[Altea]], [[Benidorm]], and Villajoyosa. }} ===By car=== From motorway '''AP-7''', which connects Valencia with Alicante, take '''Exit 63''' onto '''N-332''' toward Calpe. ===By boat=== * {{listing | type = go | name = Mundo Marino | wikidata = Q136089221 | alt = Innova Cruceros SL | image = | url = https://mundomarino.es/en/calpe-port/ | email = info@mundomarino.es | address = Puerto Pesquero, s/n | lat = 38.639084 | long = 0.069776 | directions = Ticket office at the entrance of the fishing port, next to the parking lot | phone = +34 966 423 066 | hours = Daily 09:00-19:30 during the season | price = A round-trip ticket costs from €15, and the journey lasts 50 minutes. | lastedit = 2025-08-04 | content = From May through September they operate a ferry route to [[Altea]]. The company also offers other maritime activities such as coastal excursions with swimming and barbecue tours, sunset cruises and cultural or educational trips along the Parque Natural de Sierra Helada which often include environmental interpretation. }} ==Get around== ===By bus=== * {{listing | name=Autobuses Ifach | alt= | type=go | url=http://www.autobusesifach.es/index.php/en/ | email=info@autobusesifach.es | address=Partida Corralet, 3C | lat=38.6567 | long=0.0354 | directions=Office | phone=+34 965 835 591 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-21:00 (office hours) | price=€1.20 | content=Operates three lines with regular service, but they're not always punctual. Timetables can be viewed and downloaded [http://www.autobusesifach.es/index.php/en/timetable here]. }} ==See== [[File:Peñón de Ifach, Calpe, España, 2014-07-01, DD 08.JPG|thumb|Penyal d'Ifach]] [[File:Banys de la Reina (piscifactoria), Calp.JPG|thumb|Roman fish farm in the ''Banys de la Reina'']] [[File:Calpe Puerto 01 JMM.JPG|thumb|Lonja, or fish auction]] * {{see | name=Parc Natural del Penyal d'Ifac | alt=Parque Natural del Peñón de Ifach | url=http://www.agricultura.gva.es/web/pn-penyal-d-ifac/planea-tu-visita | email= | address=Avda Isla de Formentera, s/n (Visitor Centre) | lat=38.63761 | long=0.07345 | directions= | phone=+34 965 837 598 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Natural Park of Penyal d'Ifac | image=Peñón de Ifach, Calpe, España, 2014-07-01, DD 08.JPG | wikidata=Q657937 | lastedit=2016-02-05 | content=A large rock which juts straight out from the sea. The rock is a designated nature reserve, but it is possible to climb to the top via a tunnel, bored steeply through the middle of the rock. }} * {{see | name=Torreó de la Peça | alt=Torreón de la Peca / Tower of Peca | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.64492 | long=0.04494 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Torreó de la peça i muralla, Calp.JPG | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-02-07 | content=The only remaining portion of the medieval fortress once located here, this includes a preserved tower, section of two walls, and a gate. }} * {{see | name=La Església Antigua | alt=La Iglesia Antigua / The Old Church | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.64511 | long=0.04445 | directions=entry through the Church of Mare de Déu de les Neus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Campanar de l'església de la Mare de Déu de les Neus, Calp.JPG | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-02-07 | content=The only Gothic-Mudéjar church remaining in the Valencian Autonomous Region, this was built in the 15th century into the side of the old city walls, and is now directly attached to the very modern parish church from the 20th century. Especially noteworthy inside is a 15th-century altarpiece depicting San Antonio Abad, San Cosme, and San Damian. }} * {{see | name=Museu de Història i Arqueologia | alt=Museo de Historia y Arqueología / History and Archaeology Museum | url=http://en.calpe.es/ver/2139/museo-de-historia-y-arqueologia.html | email=museo@ajcalp.es | address=C/ Santísimo Cristo, 7 | lat=38.64408 | long=0.04389 | directions= | phone=+34 965 839 123 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Sala del museu d'Història de Calp.JPG | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-13:00, 16:30-19:30 | price= | lastedit=2016-02-06 | content=This former residence now displays a range of artifacts from the region, which date from the Bronze Age to the medieval period. }} * {{see | name=Museu del Colleccionisme | alt=Museo de Coleccionismo / Museum of Collections | url= | email=museo@ajcalp.es | address=Plaza de la Villa, 16 | lat=38.64486 | long=0.04484 | directions=Torreó de la Peça | phone=+34 965 839 123 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-13:00, 16:30-19:30 | price= | lastedit=2016-02-06 | content=This is a venue for temporary exhibits, located in the walls of a former fortress. }} * {{see | name=Banys de la Reina | alt=Baños de la Reina / Queen's Baths | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.64156 | long=0.06143 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Baños de la Reina-Calpe-2009 (1).jpg | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-02-07 | content=The ruined structures here were used in Roman times for farming fish, salt production, and salting fish. Finds from the archaeological site can be viewed at the ''Museu de Història i Arqueologia'' (listed above). Today parts of the area are fenced off to prevent vandalism, but it is still possible to appreciate the ruins from behind a fence. }} * {{see | name=Torre del Castellet | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.63821 | long=0.00930 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=es:Castillo del Mascarat | image=Torre del castellet, Calp.JPG | wikidata=Q4889692 | lastedit=2016-02-07 | content=These ruins are the remains of a late 16th-century watchtower built in defense against Barbary pirates. The site is the location of the former 12th-century ''Castell de Calp'', demolished centuries ago. Although there is very little remaining besides the tower base, foundations, and some rock-cut cisterns, hikers are rewarded with an excellent view of the Penyal d'Ifac and the surrounding area. }} * {{see | name=Lonja de Pescado | alt=fish auction | url= | email= | address=Av del Port, 15 | lat=38.63998 | long=0.06944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 17:00-19:00 | price= | image=Calpe Puerto 01 JMM.JPG | lastedit=2017-10-22 | content=Where the daily catch is unloaded and auctioned off. There are also a number of immediately adjacent restaurants. }} ==Do== ===Festivals and cultural events=== * {{do | name=Moros i Cristians | alt=Moros y Cristianos / Moors and Christians | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=17-22 October | price=Free | wikidata=Q23662892 | lastedit=2017-07-16 | content=One of the many regional Moors and Christians festivals which celebrate the Christian reconquista. }} * {{do | name=Oktoberfest Calpe | alt=Fiesta de la Cerveza | url=https://www.facebook.com/OktoberfestCalpe/ | email=oktoberfestcalpe@gmail.com | address=venues vary yearly | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 601 171 481 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=End of October / beginning of November | price= | lastedit=2017-07-17 | content=Organised by a club of German residents, the festival has been growing in popularity since its first installment in 1988, now attracting more than 10,000 participants. On offer are of course German beer, food (including roast chicken, pork knuckles and sausage), and music. }} * {{do | name=Casa de Cultura 'Jaume Pastor i Fluixà' | alt='Jaume Pastor i Fluixà' Cultural Centre | url=http://cultura.calp.es/en | email=infocultura@ajcalp.es | address=Avda de Masnou, 1 | lat=38.64293 | long=0.04424 | directions= | phone=+34 965 839 123 (main office), +34 965 837 776 (ticket office) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 08:30-14:00 (main office); 1½ hrs before events onward (ticket office) | price= | lastedit=2016-02-06 | content=Calpe's primary venue for concerts and the performing arts, as well as for workshops and special courses. Tickets can be purchased [https://www.instanticket.es/ online]. }} ===Beaches and water sport=== [[File:Platja del Port Blanc de Calp, troncs de palmeres.JPG|thumb|Platja del Port Blanc (Playa Puerto Blanco)]] Calpe has two urban beaches. {{marker|type=do|name=Platja de l'Arenal-Bol|lat=38.6418|long=0.0544|image=View on Peñon de Ifach, Calpe beach.jpg}} (''Playa del Arenal-Bol''), to the west of the Penyal d'Ifach, is characterised by over a kilometre of fine sand and it has a pleasant tree-lined promenade. {{marker|type=do|name=Platja de la Fossa|lat=38.6451|long=0.0734|image=Calpe - panoramio (19).jpg}} (''Playa de Levante / Playa La Fossa''), to the northwest, is somewhat smaller, also with a promenade. In the summer both beaches have lifeguards, first-aid stations, showers, toilets, and disabled access, loungers and umbrellas (for rent), and a range of shops and restaurants. Further west is the smaller and quieter {{marker|type=do|name=Platja del Port Blanc|lat=38.63577|long=0.03446|image=Platja del Port Blanc de Calp, troncs de palmeres.JPG}} (''Playa Puerto Blanco''), with pebbles and coarse sand. Facilities here include toilets, foot washing stations, and lifeguards, as well as a nearby dive centre. * {{do | name=Mundo Marino | alt= | url=http://www.excursionesmaritimasbenidorm.es/ | email= | address= | lat=38.63911 | long=0.07016 | directions=Port | phone=+34966423066 | tollfree= | hours=Every hour | price=€13.50 | content=A 45-min boat trip around the Peñón de Ifach, with underwater view. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Librería Europa | alt= | url=http://www.libreria-europa-calpe.com/ | email=libreria.europa.calpe@gmail.com | address=Carrer Oscar Espla, 2 | lat=38.64353 | long=0.04718 | directions= | phone=+34 965 835 824 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:00-14:00 17:00-20:00, Sa 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-10-31 | content=The largest bookshop between Alicante and Valencia. The shop sells new and used books in Spanish, English, French, German, Italian and Russian, in all subjects, and carries regional and hiking maps as well as books of local interest. The multilingual owner can also order new and used books, which take about a week to arrive. }} ===Street markets=== * {{buy | name=Rastro | alt=flea market | url= | email= | address=Avda Pais Valencià and Avda Esport | lat=38.64634 | long=0.05104 | directions=next to the football stadium | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Every W in summer | price= | lastedit=2017-10-11 | content=Mostly tat but there are one or two bargains to be found. }} * {{buy | name=Mercadillo de fruta | alt=fruit and veg street market | url= | email= | address=Avda Mas Nou | lat=38.64351 | long=0.04214 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Sa morning | price= | lastedit=2017-10-11 | content=A good place to pick up local produce. }} * {{buy | name=Mercadillo de ropa | alt=clothing street market | url= | email= | address=Avda del Norte | lat=38.64558 | long=0.04274 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Sa morning | price= | content=Quite large but crowded. Some good bargains. }} ==Eat== The main concentrations of restaurants are around the junctions of C/ Pintor Sorolla and C/ Blasco Ibanez in the town centre; at the harbour (to the east of the rock); and along the beachfront (to the north of the rock). * {{eat | name=El Bodegón | alt= | url=http://bodegoncalpe.com/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=C/ Delfín, 8 | lat=38.64257 | long=0.04838 | directions= | phone=+34 965 830 164 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-29 | content=Traditional Spanish cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurante Antica Roma | alt= | url= | email= | address=C/ Pintor Sorolla, 4 | lat=38.64418 | long=0.05008 | directions=Edf Apolo IV | phone=+34 966 445 151 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 16:00- | price= | lastedit=2016-02-07 | content=Good value Italian restaurant. Plenty of tables on the outside terrace. Friendly staff. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurante La Casa | alt= | url= | email= | address=C/ del Mar, 23 | lat=38.64398 | long=0.04498 | directions= | phone=+34 965 837 312 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-02-07 | content=Swiss cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant Oscar | alt= | url=http://restaurantoscar.com/en/home/ | email= | address=Urb el Tosal, 28 | lat=38.63343 | long=0.03037 | directions=Urbanisatio Maryvilla | phone=+34 965 832 016 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W-M 13:00-15:30, 18:30-22:30 | price=Lunch menu €25 | lastedit=2016-04-29 | content=A large long-established restaurant. Reservations can be made [http://restaurantoscar.com/en/reservations/ online] {{dead link|August 2020|December 2020}}}. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurante Rich House | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantoscar.com/index.php/en/ {{dead link|August 2020|December 2020}} | email= | address=C/ L'Esport, 4 | lat=38.64601 | long=0.05026 | directions=opposite the football stadium | phone=+34 965 835 783 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-02-07 | content=Friendly, family-run Chinese restaurant. Good range of traditional dishes and also a sushi selection. }} * {{eat | name=El Roble de Calpe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/El-Roble-de-Calpe-221580771190473/ | email= | address=C/ Blasco Ibanez, 4 | lat=38.64361 | long=0.05002 | directions= | phone=+34 965 835 921 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great little traditional tapas bar. Slightly 'school canteen' feel to it but the food and service are both excellent and it is great value. }} * {{eat | name=Steakhouse El Santo | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/SteakhouseElSanto/ | email=speidelana@hotmail.com | address=C/ Torreones, 3 | lat=38.64443 | long=0.04422 | directions= | phone=+34 965 832 034 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 19:00-24:00 | price= | image=BBQ and bar at Restaurante El Santo in Calpe.jpg | lastedit=2017-10-11 | content=Argentine and Italian cuisine. }} ==Drink== There are some bars and discos at Calpe's La Fossa-Levante beach, which are well frequented by tourists during summer season. ==Sleep== ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=AR Diamante Beach Spa Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.diamantebeach.com/ | email=websales@ar-hotels.com | address=Avda Juan Carlos I, 48 | lat=38.65058 | long=0.07333 | directions= | phone=+34 965 875 609 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=15:00-18:00 | checkout=before 12:00 | price=Doubles €69+ | image=Hotel diamante beach a calpe - panoramio.jpg | lastedit=2016-02-08 | content=New hotel, just off the beach. Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, fitness centre, airport shuttle (surcharge). }} * {{sleep | name=AR Imperial Park Spa Resort | alt= | url=http://www.ar-hotels.com/en-gb/hotel-ar-imperial-park-spa-resort-calpe | email= | address=Partida Tosal de la Cometa, s/n | lat=38.6686 | long=0.0667 | directions= | phone=+34 900 468 357 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=16:00-24:00 | checkout=before 12:00 | price=Bungalows €100+, including all meals | content=Nice and rather large resort. Quite far from the beach though. Parking €6/day, free Wi-Fi in public areas. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Hotel SH Ifach | alt= | url=http://www.sh-hoteles.com/en/ifach-hotel-alicante-spain | email= | address=Avinguda Juan Carlos I, s/n | lat=38.64216 | long=0.06972 | directions= | phone=+34 902 453 015 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Doubles €200+, including breakfast | lastedit=2017-07-24 | content=Facilities include indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centre, three onsite restaurants, airport shuttle, and free Wi-Fi. }} * {{sleep | name=Port Europa | alt= | url=http://www.porthotels.es/#/hotels/europa?_d1500891359517 | email=europa@porthotels.es | address=Avinguda Europa, 21 | lat=38.64212 | long=0.06260 | directions= | phone=+34 965 835 495 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=Doubles €179+, including breakfast | lastedit=2017-07-24 | content=Has an onsite restaurant, outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi. Parking €12/day. }} ===Camping=== * {{sleep | name=Camping Calp Mar | alt= | url=http://www.campingcalpemar.com/en/ | email=info@campingcalpemar.com | address=C/ Eslovenia, 3 | lat=38.6452 | long=0.0563 | directions= | phone=+34 965 875 576 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=Summer 08:00-23:00, winter 08:00-21:30 | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-10-25 | content=Can accommodate tents, campervans, and caravans, and also has three bungalows available for rent. Facilities include self-service laundry, an onsite bar-restaurant, pool, toilets and shower, pre-paid Wi-Fi. Pets permitted. }} * {{sleep | name=Camping Sol de Calpe Austral | alt= | url=https://www.campingsoldecalpe.com/en | email= | address=C/ Estonia, 3-5 | lat=38.6447 | long=0.0603 | directions= | phone=+34 900 103 787 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-10-25 | content=Can accommodate campervans and caravans. Has toilets and showers, pool, laundry, Wi-Fi, and onsite restaurant-café. Pets under 20kg accepted. }} ==Connect== ==Go next== [[Denia|Dénia]], [[Altea]], [[Benidorm]] and [[Alicante]] can all be reached via the [http://www.fgv.es Tram]{{Dead link|date=August 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, which clings to the coast for most of its picturesque journey. You usually have to change in Benidorm if you're continuing to Alicante. It's also possible to take a boat from the harbour to Dénia, Altea and Benidorm. {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Costa Blanca}} {{geo|38.645|0.044166666666667}} c66s9nsnpiarcjp15tsjg9pgz6ri09n 0 5913 5288950 5263668 2026-06-06T23:44:08Z ~2026-33643-02 2419295 /* See */ 5288950 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pico de Fogo banner.jpg|caption=Pico de Fogo}} '''Cape Verde''' or '''CV''' (Portuguese: '''''Cabo Verde''''', Kriolu: ''Kabu Verdi'') is a country off the coast of [[West Africa]]. It is in a cluster of [[islands of the Atlantic Ocean]], 570 km (350 mi) off the western coast of [[Senegal]]. ==Regions== Cape Verde is formed by 10 main islands and about 8 islets. The main islands are (clockwise from northwest): {{Regionlist | regionmap=Cabo Verde regions map.png | regionmaptext= | regionmapsize=380px | region1name=[[Santo Antão]] | region1color=#d5dc76 | region1items= | region1description=Great hiking. | region2name=[[São Vicente]] | region2color=#709ea3 | region2items= | region2description=With the cultural capital of [[Mindelo]]. | region3name=Santa Luzia | region3color=#ac5c91 | region3items= | region3description=Santa Luzia is uninhabited but can be visited as a day trip from [[São Vicente]]. | region4name=São Nicolau | region4color=#d09440 | region4items= | region4description= | region5name=[[Sal]] | region5color=#578e86 | region5items= | region5description=Has great beaches, water sports and resorts aplenty. But little else. | region6name=[[Boa Vista (Cape Verde)|Boa Vista]] | region6color=#71b37b | region6items= | region6description=Even nicer beaches. | region7name=[[Maio]] | region7color=#b383b3 | region7items= | region7description= | region8name=[[Santiago (Cape Verde)|Santiago Island]] | region8color=#8a84a3 | region8items= | region8description=The first island settled in Cape Verde. It holds the current capital [[Praia]], the original capital [[Cidade Velha]], and the bulk of the nation's population. | region9name=[[Fogo]] | region9color=#4f93c0 | region9items= | region9description=A spectacular volcano island which last erupted in 2014. Farmers are still growing vines for wine in the crater and growing coffee on its slopes. | region10name=Brava | region10color=#d56d76 | region10items= | region10description=A small, very hilly island accessible by ferry from Fogo a few times a week and is a great place to get away from it all. Faja de Agua is a dramatic remote bay and village from which the American Whaling ships collected supplies and crew with many from Brava now settled in Boston, USA. }} ==Cities== [[File:Casal na Praia de Leste.jpg|thumbnail|Casal na Praia de Leste]] There are 24 cities in Cape Verde. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Praia]]|wikidata=Q3751}} – the capital, on [[Santiago (Cape Verde)|Santiago Island]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mindelo]]|wikidata=Q495547}} – port city on [[São Vicente]], probably the country's liveliest * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cidade Velha]]|wikidata=Q464913}} (Ribeira Grande) – A historic town on Santiago * {{marker|type=city|name=Espargos|wikidata=Q498968}} is the capital of [[Sal]] where the airport is and Santa Maria is the main tourist area at the south of the island * {{marker|type=city|name=Assomada|wikidata=Q490573}} is the seat of municipality of [[Santa Catarina]] on [[Santiago (Cape Verde)|Santiago]] * {{marker|type=city|name=Santa Maria <!--[[Santa Maria (Cape Verde)|Santa Maria]]-->|wikidata=Q497445}} - former administrative capital and the most populous city on [[Sal]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[São Filipe]]|wikidata=Q13957085}} capital of island [[Fogo]] ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=Pico de Fogo|wikidata=Q499108}} - an active volcano on [[Fogo]] that has created a unique landscape best explored on foot or horseback ==Understand== {{quickbar| location=LocationCapeVerde.png}} Cape Verde (population 550,000 in 2019) is 500 km from the west coast of Africa. The previously uninhabited islands were discovered and colonized by the [[Portugal|Portuguese]] in the 15th century; they subsequently became a trading centre for African slaves and later an important coaling and re-supply stop for whaling and transatlantic shipping. Independence was achieved in 1975. Most Cape Verdeans have both African and Portuguese ancestors. The government declared in 2013 that the country's official name would not be translated into foreign languages and the country is now the ''Republic of Cabo Verde'' or simply '''Cabo Verde''', although only time will tell if this change will enter common usage. ===Climate=== Cape Verde’s climate is temperate, with a warm, dry summer. Precipitation is meagre and falls between June and February, peaking in September. Some islands see almost no rain: these are Sal, Boavista and Maio. The islands with most rainfall are Santiago, Fogo and Santo Antao. ===Holidays=== The national holiday is 5 July, Independence Day. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visit-caboverde.com/en Visit Cabo Verde] website ==Talk== The official language is '''[[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]]''', used in all official publications and announcements as well as in business, media and schools, but the local language is '''Cape Verdean Creole''' (''Kriolu kabuverdianu''), a Portuguese-based creole language with 90-95% of the words from Portuguese and the rest mainly from West African languages. It is divided into 9 dialects spoken on various parts of the country. Even though Kriolu is comprehensible to a skilled Portuguese-speaker, almost all people can also ''speak'' Portuguese as a second language. A considerable number of Cape Verdeans also speak English; basically, Kriolu is your first option, Portuguese second, English third. It is a good idea to know some Kriolu or at least Portuguese, since even though young urban people are often quite proficient in English, this does not apply to old and rural people, and even those who can speak English will highly appreciate any attempt you do to speak Kriolu or Portuguese. ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Cape Verde.svg|thumb|375px|Visa policy of Cape Verde{{legend|#D11B20|Cape Verde}} {{legend|#053692|Visa exemption}} {{legend|#FCCF11|Visa issued on arrival}}{{legend|#C3C3C3|Visa required}}]] ===Entry requirements=== Citizens of [[Angola]], [[Benin]], [[Burkina Faso]], [[Côte d'Ivoire]], [[Gambia]], [[Ghana]], [[Guinea-Bissau]], [[Guinea]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Liberia]], [[Macau]], [[Mali]], [[Mauritania]], [[Mozambique]], [[Niger]], [[Nigeria]], [[Senegal]], [[Sierra Leone]], [[Singapore]], [[Timor-Leste]] and [[Togo]] do not require a visa to enter Cape Verde. [[European Union]] citizens are also visa exempt, but have to pay an entry fee of approximately '''€30'''. Pre-registration is possible at [https://www.ease.gov.cv/ the EASE website of the Cabo Verde government]{{cbignore}} for a faster entry through automated passport control (at least in the Nelson Mandela airport in Praia of Santiago as of July 2022). Everybody else may obtain a '''visa on arrival''' at a cost of around '''€30'''. The waiting queues for this option may be longer than for pre-registered visitors. ===By plane=== Cape Verde has four international airports: * '''Amílcar Cabral International Airport''' on [[Sal]] Island (IATA '''SID'''). * '''Nelson Mandela International Airport''' in [[Praia]] on [[Santiago (Cape Verde)]] (IATA '''RAI'''). * '''Aristides Pereira International Airport''' on [[Boa Vista (Cape Verde)]] (IATA '''BVC''') * '''Cesária Évora Airport''' on [[São Vicente]] (IATA '''VXE''') These airports provide connections to Europe, Africa and the Americas. Not all the connections are visible to travel booking websites, it is usually worth checking with a travel agent. ====From Europe==== [[File:Praia International Airport.jpg|thumb|Praia International Airport]] Cape Verde is serviced through two types of flight connections: scheduled flights and charter flights (mostly reserved for all-inclusive vacations to the islands of [[Sal]] and [[Boa Vista (Cape Verde)]]. There are regular flights from [[Amsterdam Schiphol]], [[Lisbon]] (daily), [[Madrid Barajas]], [[Milan]]<!--which one?-->, [[Munich Airport]], and [[Oporto]]. Some specific connections to Cabo Verde are: * {{go | name=[https://caboverdeairlines.com Cabo Verde Airlines] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-08-08 | content=fly from [[Lisbon]] }} * {{go | name=[http://www.flytap.com/ TAP Portugal] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-08-08 | content=fly from [[Lisbon]] }} * {{go | name=Royal Air Maroc | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-08-08 | content=Fly from Casablanca }} * {{go | name=Thomson Holidays | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-08-08 | content=You can fly direct to Santa Maria on Sal from [[London Gatwick]], [[Glasgow]] and [[Manchester Airport]] on Astraeus and also with Thomson Holidays from [[Birmingham (England)|Birmingham]], Manchester and [[Gatwick Airport|Gatwick]]. }} ====From the Americas==== There are regular weekly flights from [[Fortaleza|Fortaleza (Brazil)]]. ====From Africa==== West Africa is also served. ===By boat=== There are only infrequent, expensive connections to the mainland by ship. On the other hand the islands are commonly visited by yachts crossing the Atlantic (see [[Hitchhiking boats]]). ==Get around== [[File:Cabo Verde - panoramio (9).jpg|thumb|Sail boat in Cape Verde]] [[File:São Filipe airport.jpg|thumb|São Filipe airport.]] Most road and sidewalk surfaces in Cabo Verde are made of large, rough, irregular, uneven and sharp cobblestones, which are often spaced wide apart and may protrude several centimetres from the ground. These surfaces are generally unsuitable for wheeled luggage, baby strollers, folding bicycles or anything with wheels smaller than those of a car or standard bicycle. Transportation between islands is possible by plane and ferry. Plane tickets are more expensive than ferry tickets. If funds are not a constraint, Cabo Verdeans seem to prefer flights due to better reliability, shorter duration and lack of sea-sickness. Timetables in Cape Verde are not to be taken too seriously - don't be too surprised if that boat departs ''ahead'' of schedule or if that flight suddenly gets postponed until tomorrow. This is important to consider if you decide to do some island-hopping. Due to weather and other conditions flights may be delayed or canceled. Carry your toothbrush with you and build in some buffer time to your planning especially if you need to meet an international connection. ===By plane=== As of July 2022, [https://bestflycaboverde.com/ Best Fly Cabo Verde] airlines has regular flights between the majority of the islands. Booking is possible through the website or local tourist agencies. Payments can be made via Credit Card when selecting the vinti4 payment options. Tickets may be sold out days or weeks ahead - especially if there are more potential passengers when the ferry service is interrupted. Consider booking early, especially for critical connections. In case of emergency, some spaces of no-show passengers may be available. Go to the airport in the morning to be put on the waiting list to have the chance to gain such a space. If you can afford to wait until you arrive, domestic tickets are cheaper if purchased in Cape Verde. There are several fare categories as listed on the [https://bestflycaboverde.com/en/online/tarifas.htm airline website]. Flights can be rebooked for $2,000 ([[#Money|escudos]]) in some of the fare categories as listed on the tariff conditions in the website. *[http://www.caboverdeexpress.com Cabo Verde Express ] ===By ferry=== There are ferry services between the islands. As of July 2022, all ferries are operated by [https://www.cvinterilhas.cv/home CV Interilhas]. Schedules and ticket booking possibilities are available on the website. According to Cabo Verdean locals, ferries seem to have reliability issues so it is advisable to check the website before departure and to have a backup plan. For the journey, the sea conditions may cause sea sickness so it is advisable to take the same precautions as on any ferry journey. ===By taxi and aluguer shared transport=== Nice, new taxis are available in the major cities and are not metered. Shared transportation called ''Aluguers'' are available on each island. These are usually either ''Toyota Hilux'' open-back pickup trucks with bench seats and sunroof or 15-passenger ''Toyota Hiace'' vans. Aluguer rates are fixed. The rates are displayed in a few, but not all alugers. Short distances may be as inexpensive as '''[[File:Cifrão symbol.svg|15px]]'''50 ([[#Money|escudos]]) while longer distances may cost as much as '''[[File:Cifrão symbol.svg|15px]]'''600. Aluguers depart from central stations in larger cities and run along major roads. They stop for passengers along the road. A request to disembark is made by telling ''"Para!"'' to the conductor. === By car === Cape Verde's road network is underdeveloped in places, and roads are often unpaved, especially on the smaller islands. The main roads are asphalted. Road lighting is poor, so particular care must be taken when driving in the dark. The local traffic culture is unruly by western standards. Traffic speeds can be high. Drunk driving is common. ==See== [[File:Praia Sahy, Costa verde Fluminense 01.jpg|thumbnail|A beach in Praia]] * [[Cidade Velha]], whose name translates to "Old City" was the first European city in the tropics and a [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]]. * The Cova Valley on [[Santo Antão]] - located in a crater of an extinct volcano. * The town hall, cathedral and Palace of Justice in the capital [[Praia]]. * [[Fogo]], an island of volcanoes, one of which erupted in 1995 and 2014/2015. * Lush green valleys across the island nation's archipelago. ==Do== The possibility on what to do differ strongly by the size and type of island (see pages for individual islands). Some activities available on particular islands include: * Game fishing * Kite surfing & wind surfing * Diving * Jetskiing and other water sports * Canyoning in Santo Antao ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Cape Verdean escudos | currencyCode=$ | date=January 2026 | USD=95 | EUR=110 (fixed) | GBP=125 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/cve-cape-verdean-escudo XE.com] }} [[File:Fogo São Filipe shop.jpg|thumb|300px|Street shop in [[São Filipe]]]] The official currency of Cape Verde is the '''escudo''', denoted by the symbol "'''[[File:Cifrão symbol.svg|15px]]'''" (a ''cifrão'', a symbol similar to the dollar sign, but with two vertical strokes instead of one) after the amount. Its ISO code is '''CVE'''. The currency is fixed against the euro at 110'''[[File:Cifrão symbol.svg|15px]]''' per euro. Coins in Cape Verde are issued in denominations of 1-, 5-, 10-, 20-, 50-, 100-, 200-, 250 and 500 escudos. Banknotes in Cape Verde are issued in denominations of 200-, 500-, 1,000-, 2,000 and 5,000 escudos. In the resort islands of Sal and Boa Vista, euros are commonly accepted, although you might receive change in escudos. Money can be changed from all major currencies at the international airports at Sal and Praia. Bank branches at larger towns will also change money. Larger towns also have ATMs that will take Visa, MasterCard and Maestro. High-end hotels will accept credit/debit cards. Other hotels will expect cash although many mid-range ones will accept euros at a reasonably exchange rate (slightly worse than the banks). For everything else, expect to pay in escudos. ===Costs=== Since most goods are imported, the cost of living is moderate to high. On the island resorts of Boa Vista and Sal, the cost of living can often be compared to their Caribbean counterparts. The island of Santiago is reasonably the least expensive. ==Eat== [[File:Praia market potatoes manioc.jpg|thumbnail|Market hall in Praia]] Cape Verde has fantastic fresh seafood. Tuna is common, as is Wahoo - a white fleshed fish with similar texture. *'''Lagostada''' – a lobster dish *'''Cachupa''' - the national dish made with maize and potato. Fish or chicken commonly added for flavour. *'''Tosta mista''' - common toasted ham and cheese sandwich. European food is common on all the islands. Italian is especially popular on Sal. Vegetarians can ask for omelette or salads. ==Drink== === Non-alcoholic drinks === Tap water may be contaminated due to incorrect storage (e.g. in containers on the roofs of buildings). Take the same precautions as in other regions with varying water quality. In case of doubt, bottled water is available in stores between $70 for a 1.5-l bottle to $400 for 10-l canisters. Imported juices and soft drinks are available in these stores as well. === Alcoholic drinks === Local beer is a lager to drink ice cold, its name is '''Strela'''. Red, white and rosé wines are grown and made in Fogo, e.g. under the ''Chã'' brand. International beers and other drinks are available. These are imported from Portugal and other countries. == Sleep == There are plenty of hotels and guest houses throughout the archipelago. Though the largest hotels are based on the islands of Sal (Riu Funana and Garopa hotels--1000 rooms combined), and Boa Vista (Riu Touareg--881 rooms). ==Learn== [[File:Cactus, Praia, Cape Verde.jpg|thumbnail|Cactus in Praia ]] There are 10 universities including institutes in the country. The largest universities are: Jean Piaget University of Cape Verde and University of Cape Verde. ==Work== The Cape Verdean economy is largely service-based, i.e., most Cape Verdeans work in industries, hospitals, transportation and tourism related activities. ==Stay safe== Pickpocketing and purse snatching are quite common in Cape Verde, especially in the main cities (Praia, Mindelo) and on the islands popular with tourists (Boa Vista, Sal). Thieves should be particularly watched out for in large crowds, such as at markets, festivals or other celebrations. Theft and robbery are often committed by street children and youth gangs. Violent crime, much of it drug-related, has also increased. It is best to avoid travelling alone at night. There are also cases of robberies against tourists on beaches. The emergency number is 132. [https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/cape-verde UK health authorities] have classified Cape Verde as having a risk of '''Zika virus''' transmission. The WHO declared that, as of 2024, '''malaria''' has been eradicated in the entire country, with no cases reported for over three years. ==Stay healthy== In the resorts, the '''[[tap water]]''' is usually desalinated and safe to drink. In other areas, bottled water is cheap and commonly available. ==Respect== People are polite and friendly: they will try to sell you something and if you refuse, they will invent stories about the hardship of their families. It is good to buy something, but important to [[bargain]]. ==Connect== The telephone system is effective and improving. The country also has one Internet service provider. === Mobile connectivity === There is mobile phone coverage in all cities and most towns. As of July 2022, 4G coverage is common in some populated areas such as Santiago and Fogo. Check with your provider as to the roaming costs. Alternatively, local prepaid SIM cards branded ''CVMovel'' and ''Unitel T+'' (Tmais) are available widespread. As of July 2022, these can be charged with around $1000 for approximately 7 GB of data, unlimited calls into the same provider network and 15 minutes of calls into the other provider. Ask the personnel to activate the SIM card for you and to activate the prepaid tariffs. {{outlinecountry}} {{isPartOf|West Africa}} {{geo|15.916667|-24.083333|zoom=8}} 33wzu6sh8f4996c1o5m6v5ws9lok2zr 5288952 5288950 2026-06-06T23:50:04Z Ikan Kekek 36420 Reverted edits by [[Special:Contributions/~2026-33643-02|~2026-33643-02]] ([[User talk:~2026-33643-02|talk]]) to last version by [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] 5263668 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pico de Fogo banner.jpg|caption=Pico de Fogo}} '''Cape Verde''' or '''CV''' (Portuguese: '''''Cabo Verde''''', Kriolu: ''Kabu Verdi'') is a country off the coast of [[West Africa]]. It is in a cluster of [[islands of the Atlantic Ocean]], 570 km (350 mi) off the western coast of [[Senegal]]. ==Regions== Cape Verde is formed by 10 main islands and about 8 islets. The main islands are (clockwise from northwest): {{Regionlist | regionmap=Cabo Verde regions map.png | regionmaptext= | regionmapsize=380px | region1name=[[Santo Antão]] | region1color=#d5dc76 | region1items= | region1description=Great hiking. | region2name=[[São Vicente]] | region2color=#709ea3 | region2items= | region2description=With the cultural capital of [[Mindelo]]. | region3name=Santa Luzia | region3color=#ac5c91 | region3items= | region3description=Santa Luzia is uninhabited but can be visited as a day trip from [[São Vicente]]. | region4name=São Nicolau | region4color=#d09440 | region4items= | region4description= | region5name=[[Sal]] | region5color=#578e86 | region5items= | region5description=Has great beaches, water sports and resorts aplenty. But little else. | region6name=[[Boa Vista (Cape Verde)|Boa Vista]] | region6color=#71b37b | region6items= | region6description=Even nicer beaches. | region7name=[[Maio]] | region7color=#b383b3 | region7items= | region7description= | region8name=[[Santiago (Cape Verde)|Santiago Island]] | region8color=#8a84a3 | region8items= | region8description=The first island settled in Cape Verde. It holds the current capital [[Praia]], the original capital [[Cidade Velha]], and the bulk of the nation's population. | region9name=[[Fogo]] | region9color=#4f93c0 | region9items= | region9description=A spectacular volcano island which last erupted in 2014. Farmers are still growing vines for wine in the crater and growing coffee on its slopes. | region10name=Brava | region10color=#d56d76 | region10items= | region10description=A small, very hilly island accessible by ferry from Fogo a few times a week and is a great place to get away from it all. Faja de Agua is a dramatic remote bay and village from which the American Whaling ships collected supplies and crew with many from Brava now settled in Boston, USA. }} ==Cities== [[File:Casal na Praia de Leste.jpg|thumbnail|Casal na Praia de Leste]] There are 24 cities in Cape Verde. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Praia]]|wikidata=Q3751}} – the capital, on [[Santiago (Cape Verde)|Santiago Island]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mindelo]]|wikidata=Q495547}} – port city on [[São Vicente]], probably the country's liveliest * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cidade Velha]]|wikidata=Q464913}} (Ribeira Grande) – A historic town on Santiago * {{marker|type=city|name=Espargos|wikidata=Q498968}} is the capital of [[Sal]] where the airport is and Santa Maria is the main tourist area at the south of the island * {{marker|type=city|name=Assomada|wikidata=Q490573}} is the seat of municipality of [[Santa Catarina]] on [[Santiago (Cape Verde)|Santiago]] * {{marker|type=city|name=Santa Maria <!--[[Santa Maria (Cape Verde)|Santa Maria]]-->|wikidata=Q497445}} - former administrative capital and the most populous city on [[Sal]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[São Filipe]]|wikidata=Q13957085}} capital of island [[Fogo]] ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=Pico de Fogo|wikidata=Q499108}} - an active volcano on [[Fogo]] that has created a unique landscape best explored on foot or horseback ==Understand== {{quickbar| location=LocationCapeVerde.png}} Cape Verde (population 550,000 in 2019) is 500 km from the west coast of Africa. The previously uninhabited islands were discovered and colonized by the [[Portugal|Portuguese]] in the 15th century; they subsequently became a trading centre for African slaves and later an important coaling and re-supply stop for whaling and transatlantic shipping. Independence was achieved in 1975. Most Cape Verdeans have both African and Portuguese ancestors. The government declared in 2013 that the country's official name would not be translated into foreign languages and the country is now the ''Republic of Cabo Verde'' or simply '''Cabo Verde''', although only time will tell if this change will enter common usage. ===Climate=== Cape Verde’s climate is temperate, with a warm, dry summer. Precipitation is meagre and falls between June and February, peaking in September. Some islands see almost no rain: these are Sal, Boavista and Maio. The islands with most rainfall are Santiago, Fogo and Santo Antao. ===Holidays=== The national holiday is 5 July, Independence Day. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visit-caboverde.com/en Visit Cabo Verde] website ==Talk== The official language is '''[[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]]''', used in all official publications and announcements as well as in business, media and schools, but the local language is '''Cape Verdean Creole''' (''Kriolu kabuverdianu''), a Portuguese-based creole language with 90-95% of the words from Portuguese and the rest mainly from West African languages. It is divided into 9 dialects spoken on various parts of the country. Even though Kriolu is comprehensible to a skilled Portuguese-speaker, almost all people can also ''speak'' Portuguese as a second language. A considerable number of Cape Verdeans also speak English; basically, Kriolu is your first option, Portuguese second, English third. It is a good idea to know some Kriolu or at least Portuguese, since even though young urban people are often quite proficient in English, this does not apply to old and rural people, and even those who can speak English will highly appreciate any attempt you do to speak Kriolu or Portuguese. ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Cape Verde.svg|thumb|375px|Visa policy of Cape Verde{{legend|#D11B20|Cape Verde}} {{legend|#053692|Visa exemption}} {{legend|#FCCF11|Visa issued on arrival}}{{legend|#C3C3C3|Visa required}}]] ===Entry requirements=== Citizens of [[Angola]], [[Benin]], [[Burkina Faso]], [[Côte d'Ivoire]], [[Gambia]], [[Ghana]], [[Guinea-Bissau]], [[Guinea]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Liberia]], [[Macau]], [[Mali]], [[Mauritania]], [[Mozambique]], [[Niger]], [[Nigeria]], [[Senegal]], [[Sierra Leone]], [[Singapore]], [[Timor-Leste]] and [[Togo]] do not require a visa to enter Cape Verde. [[European Union]] citizens are also visa exempt, but have to pay an entry fee of approximately '''€30'''. Pre-registration is possible at [https://www.ease.gov.cv/ the EASE website of the Cabo Verde government]{{cbignore}} for a faster entry through automated passport control (at least in the Nelson Mandela airport in Praia of Santiago as of July 2022). Everybody else may obtain a '''visa on arrival''' at a cost of around '''€30'''. The waiting queues for this option may be longer than for pre-registered visitors. ===By plane=== Cape Verde has four international airports: * '''Amílcar Cabral International Airport''' on [[Sal]] Island (IATA '''SID'''). * '''Nelson Mandela International Airport''' in [[Praia]] on [[Santiago (Cape Verde)]] (IATA '''RAI'''). * '''Aristides Pereira International Airport''' on [[Boa Vista (Cape Verde)]] (IATA '''BVC''') * '''Cesária Évora Airport''' on [[São Vicente]] (IATA '''VXE''') These airports provide connections to Europe, Africa and the Americas. Not all the connections are visible to travel booking websites, it is usually worth checking with a travel agent. ====From Europe==== [[File:Praia International Airport.jpg|thumb|Praia International Airport]] Cape Verde is serviced through two types of flight connections: scheduled flights and charter flights (mostly reserved for all-inclusive vacations to the islands of [[Sal]] and [[Boa Vista (Cape Verde)]]. There are regular flights from [[Amsterdam Schiphol]], [[Lisbon]] (daily), [[Madrid Barajas]], [[Milan]]<!--which one?-->, [[Munich Airport]], and [[Oporto]]. Some specific connections to Cabo Verde are: * {{go | name=[https://caboverdeairlines.com Cabo Verde Airlines] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-08-08 | content=fly from [[Lisbon]] }} * {{go | name=[http://www.flytap.com/ TAP Portugal] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-08-08 | content=fly from [[Lisbon]] }} * {{go | name=Royal Air Maroc | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-08-08 | content=Fly from Casablanca }} * {{go | name=Thomson Holidays | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-08-08 | content=You can fly direct to Santa Maria on Sal from [[London Gatwick]], [[Glasgow]] and [[Manchester Airport]] on Astraeus and also with Thomson Holidays from [[Birmingham (England)|Birmingham]], Manchester and [[Gatwick Airport|Gatwick]]. }} ====From the Americas==== There are regular weekly flights from [[Fortaleza|Fortaleza (Brazil)]]. ====From Africa==== West Africa is also served. ===By boat=== There are only infrequent, expensive connections to the mainland by ship. On the other hand the islands are commonly visited by yachts crossing the Atlantic (see [[Hitchhiking boats]]). ==Get around== [[File:Cabo Verde - panoramio (9).jpg|thumb|Sail boat in Cape Verde]] [[File:São Filipe airport.jpg|thumb|São Filipe airport.]] Most road and sidewalk surfaces in Cabo Verde are made of large, rough, irregular, uneven and sharp cobblestones, which are often spaced wide apart and may protrude several centimetres from the ground. These surfaces are generally unsuitable for wheeled luggage, baby strollers, folding bicycles or anything with wheels smaller than those of a car or standard bicycle. Transportation between islands is possible by plane and ferry. Plane tickets are more expensive than ferry tickets. If funds are not a constraint, Cabo Verdeans seem to prefer flights due to better reliability, shorter duration and lack of sea-sickness. Timetables in Cape Verde are not to be taken too seriously - don't be too surprised if that boat departs ''ahead'' of schedule or if that flight suddenly gets postponed until tomorrow. This is important to consider if you decide to do some island-hopping. Due to weather and other conditions flights may be delayed or canceled. Carry your toothbrush with you and build in some buffer time to your planning especially if you need to meet an international connection. ===By plane=== As of July 2022, [https://bestflycaboverde.com/ Best Fly Cabo Verde] airlines has regular flights between the majority of the islands. Booking is possible through the website or local tourist agencies. Payments can be made via Credit Card when selecting the vinti4 payment options. Tickets may be sold out days or weeks ahead - especially if there are more potential passengers when the ferry service is interrupted. Consider booking early, especially for critical connections. In case of emergency, some spaces of no-show passengers may be available. Go to the airport in the morning to be put on the waiting list to have the chance to gain such a space. If you can afford to wait until you arrive, domestic tickets are cheaper if purchased in Cape Verde. There are several fare categories as listed on the [https://bestflycaboverde.com/en/online/tarifas.htm airline website]. Flights can be rebooked for $2,000 ([[#Money|escudos]]) in some of the fare categories as listed on the tariff conditions in the website. *[http://www.caboverdeexpress.com Cabo Verde Express ] ===By ferry=== There are ferry services between the islands. As of July 2022, all ferries are operated by [https://www.cvinterilhas.cv/home CV Interilhas]. Schedules and ticket booking possibilities are available on the website. According to Cabo Verdean locals, ferries seem to have reliability issues so it is advisable to check the website before departure and to have a backup plan. For the journey, the sea conditions may cause sea sickness so it is advisable to take the same precautions as on any ferry journey. ===By taxi and aluguer shared transport=== Nice, new taxis are available in the major cities and are not metered. Shared transportation called ''Aluguers'' are available on each island. These are usually either ''Toyota Hilux'' open-back pickup trucks with bench seats and sunroof or 15-passenger ''Toyota Hiace'' vans. Aluguer rates are fixed. The rates are displayed in a few, but not all alugers. Short distances may be as inexpensive as '''[[File:Cifrão symbol.svg|15px]]'''50 ([[#Money|escudos]]) while longer distances may cost as much as '''[[File:Cifrão symbol.svg|15px]]'''600. Aluguers depart from central stations in larger cities and run along major roads. They stop for passengers along the road. A request to disembark is made by telling ''"Para!"'' to the conductor. === By car === Cape Verde's road network is underdeveloped in places, and roads are often unpaved, especially on the smaller islands. The main roads are asphalted. Road lighting is poor, so particular care must be taken when driving in the dark. The local traffic culture is unruly by western standards. Traffic speeds can be high. Drunk driving is common. ==See== [[File:Praia Sahy, Costa verde Fluminense 01.jpg|thumbnail|A beach in Praia]] * [[Cidade Velha]], whose name translates to "Old City" was the first European city in the tropics and a [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]]. * The Cova Valley on [[Santo Antão]] - located in a crater of an extinct volcano. * The town hall, cathedral and Palace of Justice in the capital [[Praia]]. * [[Fogo]], an island of volcanoes, one of which erupted in 1995 and 2014/2015. ==Do== The possibility on what to do differ strongly by the size and type of island (see pages for individual islands). Some activities available on particular islands include: * Game fishing * Kite surfing & wind surfing * Diving * Jetskiing and other water sports * Canyoning in Santo Antao ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Cape Verdean escudos | currencyCode=$ | date=January 2026 | USD=95 | EUR=110 (fixed) | GBP=125 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/cve-cape-verdean-escudo XE.com] }} [[File:Fogo São Filipe shop.jpg|thumb|300px|Street shop in [[São Filipe]]]] The official currency of Cape Verde is the '''escudo''', denoted by the symbol "'''[[File:Cifrão symbol.svg|15px]]'''" (a ''cifrão'', a symbol similar to the dollar sign, but with two vertical strokes instead of one) after the amount. Its ISO code is '''CVE'''. The currency is fixed against the euro at 110'''[[File:Cifrão symbol.svg|15px]]''' per euro. Coins in Cape Verde are issued in denominations of 1-, 5-, 10-, 20-, 50-, 100-, 200-, 250 and 500 escudos. Banknotes in Cape Verde are issued in denominations of 200-, 500-, 1,000-, 2,000 and 5,000 escudos. In the resort islands of Sal and Boa Vista, euros are commonly accepted, although you might receive change in escudos. Money can be changed from all major currencies at the international airports at Sal and Praia. Bank branches at larger towns will also change money. Larger towns also have ATMs that will take Visa, MasterCard and Maestro. High-end hotels will accept credit/debit cards. Other hotels will expect cash although many mid-range ones will accept euros at a reasonably exchange rate (slightly worse than the banks). For everything else, expect to pay in escudos. ===Costs=== Since most goods are imported, the cost of living is moderate to high. On the island resorts of Boa Vista and Sal, the cost of living can often be compared to their Caribbean counterparts. The island of Santiago is reasonably the least expensive. ==Eat== [[File:Praia market potatoes manioc.jpg|thumbnail|Market hall in Praia]] Cape Verde has fantastic fresh seafood. Tuna is common, as is Wahoo - a white fleshed fish with similar texture. *'''Lagostada''' – a lobster dish *'''Cachupa''' - the national dish made with maize and potato. Fish or chicken commonly added for flavour. *'''Tosta mista''' - common toasted ham and cheese sandwich. European food is common on all the islands. Italian is especially popular on Sal. Vegetarians can ask for omelette or salads. ==Drink== === Non-alcoholic drinks === Tap water may be contaminated due to incorrect storage (e.g. in containers on the roofs of buildings). Take the same precautions as in other regions with varying water quality. In case of doubt, bottled water is available in stores between $70 for a 1.5-l bottle to $400 for 10-l canisters. Imported juices and soft drinks are available in these stores as well. === Alcoholic drinks === Local beer is a lager to drink ice cold, its name is '''Strela'''. Red, white and rosé wines are grown and made in Fogo, e.g. under the ''Chã'' brand. International beers and other drinks are available. These are imported from Portugal and other countries. == Sleep == There are plenty of hotels and guest houses throughout the archipelago. Though the largest hotels are based on the islands of Sal (Riu Funana and Garopa hotels--1000 rooms combined), and Boa Vista (Riu Touareg--881 rooms). ==Learn== [[File:Cactus, Praia, Cape Verde.jpg|thumbnail|Cactus in Praia ]] There are 10 universities including institutes in the country. The largest universities are: Jean Piaget University of Cape Verde and University of Cape Verde. ==Work== The Cape Verdean economy is largely service-based, i.e., most Cape Verdeans work in industries, hospitals, transportation and tourism related activities. ==Stay safe== Pickpocketing and purse snatching are quite common in Cape Verde, especially in the main cities (Praia, Mindelo) and on the islands popular with tourists (Boa Vista, Sal). Thieves should be particularly watched out for in large crowds, such as at markets, festivals or other celebrations. Theft and robbery are often committed by street children and youth gangs. Violent crime, much of it drug-related, has also increased. It is best to avoid travelling alone at night. There are also cases of robberies against tourists on beaches. The emergency number is 132. [https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/cape-verde UK health authorities] have classified Cape Verde as having a risk of '''Zika virus''' transmission. The WHO declared that, as of 2024, '''malaria''' has been eradicated in the entire country, with no cases reported for over three years. ==Stay healthy== In the resorts, the '''[[tap water]]''' is usually desalinated and safe to drink. In other areas, bottled water is cheap and commonly available. ==Respect== People are polite and friendly: they will try to sell you something and if you refuse, they will invent stories about the hardship of their families. It is good to buy something, but important to [[bargain]]. ==Connect== The telephone system is effective and improving. The country also has one Internet service provider. === Mobile connectivity === There is mobile phone coverage in all cities and most towns. As of July 2022, 4G coverage is common in some populated areas such as Santiago and Fogo. Check with your provider as to the roaming costs. Alternatively, local prepaid SIM cards branded ''CVMovel'' and ''Unitel T+'' (Tmais) are available widespread. As of July 2022, these can be charged with around $1000 for approximately 7 GB of data, unlimited calls into the same provider network and 15 minutes of calls into the other provider. Ask the personnel to activate the SIM card for you and to activate the prepaid tariffs. {{outlinecountry}} {{isPartOf|West Africa}} {{geo|15.916667|-24.083333|zoom=8}} h5k93hsmbap8eajet6u5n2y2p1bawn2 0 6471 5288837 5288713 2026-06-06T12:24:31Z ~2026-33463-73 2418995 Switched Austria-Hungary to Habsburg monarchy to cover the full Habsburg period from 1282–1918, instead of just from 1867-1918 after Hungary joined. 5288837 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Hruba Skala chateau Wikivoyage banner.jpg|caption=Karkonosze Pass between Poland and the Czech Republic}} '''Central Europe''' is one of [[Europe]]'s most beautiful regions. Long divided by the ambitions of warring empires and then Cold War tensions, this region was deeply influenced by the [[Holy Roman Empire]], the [[Ottoman Empire]], the [[Russian Empire]] and the [[USSR]]. It was also influenced by the formation of the [[Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth]], the [[Habsburg Monarchy|Habsburg monarchy]], [[Yugoslavia]] and the [[German Empire]]. All the countries in this area are [[Travelling around the Schengen Area|Schengen]] members and, with the exceptions of tiny [[Liechtenstein]] and staunchly neutral [[Switzerland]], they are also [[European Union|EU]] members, so travelling between them is a breeze. ==Countries== [[Croatia]] and [[Lithuania]] may also be included in the definition of Central Europe. At Wikivoyage they are handled as part of the [[Balkans]] and the [[Baltic states]], respectively. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Central Europe Regions.png | regionmaptext=Countries of Central Europe | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | regionmapsize=450px | region1name=[[Austria]] | region1color=#71b37b | region1items= | region1description=Breathtaking Alpine panoramas, where you can ski or hike – but also e.g. the cosmopolitan city of Vienna with a unique charm; Vienna coffee houses were both the start of many a story and the place where many stories have been written. | region2name=[[Czech Republic]] | region2color=#d8d036 | region2items= | region2description=A Slavic country surrounded by German-speakers, where fairytale forests and beautiful mountains are a nice addition to the charming cities that survived both wars and communism, and the hearty and filling cuisine is just one more reason to stay. | region3name=[[Germany]] | region3color=#c17da7 | region3items= | region3description=Both the most populous and the most economically powerful country in the [[European Union]], Germany is an incredibly diverse nation that offers everything from skiing in the Alps to sunbathing on the coasts, old towns dating back to the [[Roman Empire]] and ultramodern architecture in cities like Frankfurt. | region4name=[[Hungary]] | region4color=#d09440 | region4items= | region4description=A favourite with Easterners during the Cold War, Hungary today is one of the often overlooked gems of Europe. The country is esteemed for its ornate Turkish bathhouses, a remnant of Ottoman rule. Situated on the western edge of the Eurasian Steppe, it boasts wide grasslands, whilst also featuring several mountain ranges. | region5name=[[Liechtenstein]] | region5color=#2e9bbb | region5items= | region5description=While you might associate Liechtenstein with shady financial deals and strange politics, this tiny Alpine principality by the Rhine is well worth a short stop. | region6name=[[Poland]] | region6color=#4f93c0 | region6items= | region6description=This beautiful country has a long and brave history spanning thousands of years. With the beautiful Baltic Sea to the north and the Sudetes and Carpathian Mountains in the south, Poland is a diverse gem. | region7name=[[Slovakia]] | region7color=#8a84a3 | region7items= | region7description=Often mistaken as simply an appendix of "big brother" Czech Republic, this small ice hockey-crazy nation has made good use of its independence, won in 1993, and now offers a unique blend of influences that come together in its capital Bratislava as well as the skiing resorts of Europe's smallest high mountain range, the High Tatras. | region8name=[[Slovenia]] | region8color=#e25c5c | region8items= | region8description=This small post-Yugoslav nation features the Adriatic sea and the Alps, South Slavic, Romance, Slavic and Germanic influences and boasts enough foreign languages to welcome visitors from all around the globe | region9name=[[Switzerland]] | region9color=#e0fa92 | region9items= | region9description=With four official languages and strong regional identities in over two dozen cantons, Switzerland is one of the most diverse countries in Europe. It is also rightly famous for chocolate, cheese, watches, banks and neutrality as well as the culture of honest debate and consensus that binds it all together }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q40|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Austria]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q213|fill=#d8d036|title=[[Czech Republic]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q183|fill=#c17da7|title=[[Germany]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q28|fill=#d09440|title=[[Hungary]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q347|fill=#2e9bbb|title=[[Liechtenstein]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q36|fill=#4f93c0|title=[[Poland]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q214|fill=#8a84a3|title=[[Slovakia]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q215|fill=#e25c5c|title=[[Slovenia]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q39|fill=#e0fa92|title=[[Switzerland]]}} ==Cities== [[File:Bratislava Panorama R01.jpg|thumbnail|[[Bratislava]]]] <!-- Please don't change this list without first discussing the issue on the Talk page. --> There are way more cities of interest in Central Europe than would be convenient to list in one article. Below is a list of nine of the most notable: * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Berlin]]|wikidata=Q64}} — divided by force for 45 years during the Cold War, the capital of reunified Germany since 1990, and now an international cultural centre * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bratislava]]|wikidata=Q1780}} — Once known as "Pressburg", this city has seen both Austro-German and Hungarian influences and has thankfully survived the world wars largely unscathed * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Budapest]]|wikidata=Q1781}} — made up of old Buda and Pest on both sides of the Danube, this old Austro-Hungarian co-capital is famous for its thermal baths and was the second city in the world to get a metro * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Geneva]]|wikidata=Q71}} — Switzerland's second city is very much a global city with its location close to the French border and the countless international organisations from CERN to the Red Cross headquartered here * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ljubljana]]|wikidata=Q437}} — the picturesque Alpine capital of Slovenia and a charming baroque city with stunning architecture and dynamic nightlife * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Munich]]|wikidata=Q1726}} — Bavaria's beautiful capital city, its slogan is 'world city with a heart' (Weltstadt mit Herz), the site of the famous Oktoberfest, Hofbräuhaus, many beer gardens and the gateway to the Alps. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Prague]]|wikidata=Q1085}} — home of Kafka and castles and one of the centres of power of the medieval Holy Roman Empire, as well as seat of the oldest university north of the Alps, Prague today draws countless young tourists for its affordable and tasty beer * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Vienna]]|wikidata=Q1741}} — An erstwhile imperial capital famous for its coffee houses, the arts and culture, this city looks at least two sizes too large for the tiny country it sits in * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Warsaw]]|wikidata=Q270}} — capital of Poland, and one of the EU's thriving new business centres; the old town, nearly completely destroyed during World War II, has been rebuilt in a style inspired by classicist paintings of Canaletto. ==Other destinations== [[File:Fonyód.jpg|thumbnail|View of Lake Balaton]] * {{marker|name=[[Alps]]|wikidata=Q1286}} — probably one of the most important winter destinations in the world, that is home to summer resorts too. * {{marker|name=[[Auschwitz-Birkenau]]|wikidata=Q7341}} — Nazi death camp that was the centre of the Holocaust for European Jews during World War II. * {{marker|name=[[Białowieża National Park]]|wikidata=Q6870388}} — a UNESCO world heritage site, this is the largest remainder of Europe's primeval forest. * {{marker|name=[[Black Forest]]|wikidata=Q4204}} — known for cuckoo clocks and cherry cake, this region also offers stunning landscapes. * {{marker|name=[[Bohemian Paradise]]|wikidata=Q341327}} — unique geographical formations within the oldest protected parkland in the Czech Republic. * {{marker|name=[[Lake Balaton]]|wikidata=Q6383}} — a large but shallow lake that was a favourite with Easterners during the Cold War. * {{marker|name=[[Füssen|Neuschwanstein Castle]]|wikidata=Q262684}} — built by eccentric Bavarian King Ludwig II this castle has been an inspiration for Disney. * {{marker|name=[[High Tatras]]|wikidata=Q690323}} — Europe's smallest high mountain range is slowly being "discovered" as a hiking and skiing destination beyond its immediate vicinity. ==Understand== [[Image:Neuschwanstein wts.jpg|thumb|350px|Castles appearing straight out of fairy tales dot the entire landscape of Central Europe. Pictured here is Schloss Neuschwanstein near [[Füssen]], [[Germany]].]] While ethnically different, the countries of Central Europe share a similar culture and history throughout the ages. Whereas still in 1990, barbed wire and walls and unfriendly border agents would hinder free movement, today frequent rail and bus connections, cheap flights and excellent roads make getting around easier than ever before. But before you plan your "Central Europe in two weeks" trip, do consider the many small towns and beautiful unspoiled nature reserves that would fall by the wayside were you to concentrate on the many top highlights. ===History=== In the Middle Ages, the region was dominated by the [[Holy Roman Empire]], a patchwork of feudal fiefs, city-states and other smaller entities including the [[Hansa]], until it lost much of its power in the [[Thirty Years War]]. The region was dominated by the [[Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth]], the [[Austro-Hungarian Empire]], and later the [[German Empire]]. [[German phrasebook|German]] was the ''lingua franca'' of the region well into the 20th century. While the ethnic mosaic of the region was not a major source of conflict until the 19th century, nationalism and racism made it an increasingly divisive issue ultimately resulting in the horrors of the [[World War II in Europe|Second World War]] and [[Holocaust remembrance|the Holocaust]]. During the [[Cold War Europe|Cold War]] the region was divided between east and west by the figurative Iron Curtain, but since the revolutions around 1990, [[Germany]] has been reunified, most countries in the region have joined the European Union, with Switzerland and Liechtenstein having close ties to the EU. ===Culture=== Economic and cultural gaps remain in the region, even between neighbours – while many Polish people are devout Catholics, Czech people are rarely religious – and within countries such as the federal Germany. In general, the west is wealthier and more cosmopolitan than the east; though since gaining EU membership, some cities of the east, such as Warsaw and Ljubljana, have seen tremendous economic growth. The regions of western [[Ukraine]], [[Transylvania]] (Romania), [[Kaliningrad Oblast]] (Russia), [[Alsace]] and parts of [[Lorraine]] (France), and [[South Tyrol|South Tyrol/Alto-Adige]] (Italy), not covered by this article, are sometimes also considered Central European. This is due either to their current or past ethnic makeup or their previous political histories. Kaliningrad Oblast spent most of its history as a German-speaking region and South Tirol remains a largely German-speaking region in northern Italy maintaining strong cultural ties to Austria. Even though Ukraine is predominantly an Orthodox Christian country, its westernmost part for the centuries was part of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and later passed to Austria-Hungary. ===Climate=== Central Europe has temperate climate with four seasons. The further inland, the greater are temperature differences between summer and winter. Summers have more daylight than winters, with difference increasing further north: in [[Hamburg]], sun sets at 16:00 in December, and 22:00 (DST) in June. ==Talk== Central Europe has much linguistic diversity with a wide spread of the Germanic, Slavic, Uralic and Romance language families. Except the Uralic Hungarian, all are Indo-European. All the endemic languages in their modern form are written with the Latin script, although some of them use diacritics extensively. Finding people who speak and understand '''English''' is not a problem in most regions of Central Europe. Quite a few also of those who don't speak English speak [[German]] and [[Russian]] as second languages. Generally speaking, foreign language proficiency is greater the further west and north you go, and in urban areas in general, while people from wealthier regions tend to have better fluency. With the notable exception of Russian and German, which were more commonly taught before the 1990s, young people will often speak foreign languages better than older people. ===Germanic languages=== [[File:Dackel mit Bierkrug.jpg|thumb|Early 20th century postcard with Swabian German writing; "The beer belongs to my master!"]] [[German phrasebook|German]] has the largest number of native speakers in the region and is the official language for Germany, Austria and Liechtenstein, and is co-official in Switzerland (alongside French, Italian and Romansh). [[Swiss-German phrasebook|Swiss German]] differs from Standard German, but what is taught in Swiss schools is close enough. Low German and Frisian are spoken by some – and used also in some formal contexts – but the speakers are bilingual with Standard German. ===Slavic Languages=== The [[Czech phrasebook|Czech]] and [[Slovak phrasebook|Slovak]] languages are closely related, with the Sorbian language spoken in eastern Germany near the Polish frontier also a close relative. [[Polish phrasebook|Polish]] is the main language of Poland, although the country does host some minority Slavic languages such as Kashubian in Pomerania and Silesian in south-west Poland. [[Slovenian phrasebook|Slovenian]] is the official language of Slovenia, but it is also spoken by the Slovenian minorities in southern Austria, north-eastern Italy and western Hungary. There is also a small [[Croatian]] minority in Austria's Burgenland. While [[Russian phrasebook|Russian]] is not endemic to the region, it was taught in schools east of the Iron Curtain. ===Hungarian=== [[File:Eloszallas Hungary road signs.JPG|thumb|Road signs in Old Hungarian and modern Hungarian (Latin) script]] A Uralic language, [[Hungarian phrasebook|Hungarian]] is an outlier in Central Europe, and considered one of the most difficult languages for English speakers to learn due to its complexity. There are 5 million Hungarian speakers living outside Hungary in regions of neighbouring countries, such as eastern Austria and southern Slovakia, plus in Romania (Transylvania) and northern Serbia. ===Romance languages=== [[French phrasebook|French]] and [[Italian phrasebook|Italian]] are spoken by the majority of the population in the western and southern regions of Switzerland respectively, while German is commonly taught as a second language. Similarly, German-speaking Swiss often learn French as a second language. In the Swiss Canton of Graubünden or Grison, Romansh is spoken as a regional language. It is notable for being very close to Latin. Almost all Romansh speakers speak either Swiss German or Italian. ==Get in== The best entry point to the region depends mostly on your travel plans and itinerary. Prices for flights can vary significantly depending on the airport you fly into, and due to the excellent transportation connections, you have a wide selection available. ===By plane=== [[File:2011-06-14 10-23-56 Austria Niederösterreich Fischamend Markt.jpg|thumbnail|[[VIE|Vienna International Airport]] serves destinations in Austria, Slovakia and Hungary]] {{seealso|Flying in Europe}} By far the busiest and best connected airport in the region is [[Frankfurt Airport]] in [[Hesse]], Germany, which offers connections from all inhabited continents and from most big airports in Europe. [[Zürich]], [[Munich Airport|Munich]] and [[Vienna International Airport|Vienna]] airports also see their share of intercontinental travel with Vienna in particular having a focus on connections to the Middle East. Some of the minor airports may also offer a limited number of direct flights mostly from other parts of Europe, or from North Africa or the Middle East. Seasonal flights to "sunny" destinations like [[Antalya]] or [[Mallorca]] are pretty common even at the most minor airports that otherwise only have feeder flights to one or two hubs. ===By train=== {{see also|Rail travel in Europe}} [[File:2013-06-08 Highflyer HP L4729.JPG|thumb|350px|Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (Central railway station)]] Central Europe has a dense [[high-speed rail]] network: * InterCityExpress ([[ICE]]) trains offer connections across Germany, but are also run in partnership with the Austrian, French and Dutch railways. * The French TGV connects [[France]] with [[Geneva]], [[Berne]], [[Basel]] and [[Zurich]]. Also there are connections to [[Karlsruhe]], [[Stuttgart]], [[Munich]] and [[Frankfurt]]. * Thalys trains connect [[Cologne]] with [[Brussels]] and [[Paris]] * RailJet connects Vienna with Zürich, Munich and Budapest. The Czech Republic has also acquired some Railjet-trains to connect Prague to the rest of Europe, mostly Austria. * Pendolinos are run in Slovenia and the Czech Republic with connections to neighboring countries. In addition, there are numerous night- and other express and regular trains that connect Central Europe with the rest of continental Europe, and travel as far as [[Istanbul]] or [[Moscow]]. Check the homepage of the [http://www.bahn.de/international/view/en/index.shtml Deutsche Bahn], which has an excellent overview of the European rail system. The long and slow decline of the Central European [[sleeper train]] seems to have been stopped for now, with ÖBB operating the lion's share of them under the [https://www.nightjet.com/en/#/home Nightjet] brand. There are also some night trains run by other railways, mostly east of the former Iron Curtain. Cross-border train tickets are sometimes sold by several different railways under varying prices and conditions, so shop around a bit. ===By car=== The days of long lines at the border are thankfully largely over due to increasing European integration. That said, even 25 years after the end of the Cold War there are still bottlenecks for traffic across the former Iron Curtain. ===By bus=== {{see also|Intercity buses in Europe}} Buses used to be a niche market if that, mostly catering to immigrants from the [[Balkans]] and their descendants. However, since a liberalisation of [[Intercity buses in Germany| the market in Germany]] (and subsequently in France), more and more bus companies offer domestic and international routes throughout and in and out of Central Europe. As a rule of thumb, short hops can be incredibly cheap with prices like {{EUR|5}} not unheard of, but the longer the distance and the later you book, the more expensive it gets. While routes like London–Cologne ''are'' offered, they don't necessarily offer much of a saving compared to a flight or train. ==Get around== [[File:Oberalp 2.JPG|thumbnail|At the top of the Oberalp mountain pass, Central Switzerland]] {{Schengen|name=All the countries of Central Europe are members}} ===By car=== {{seealso|Driving in Europe}} Roads are generally in good to excellent condition and the Czech Republic and Poland in particular have been investing a lot in road construction to deal with the pent up demand since 1990 when cars became much more common. That said, there are some issues with congestion, particularly in large cities. Crossing borders with your own car should be no problem whatsoever, but rental car contracts sometimes have limitations, especially for German or Austrian cars to be taken east – those usually don't apply the other way round, so read the fine print carefully before committing to anything. If you plan to visit large cities, you should try working around having a car on the days you'll be there or forego one entirely as cars are more of a headache than a useful tool in cities of roughly 500 000 or more inhabitants. ===By train=== The Czech Republic, Switzerland and Germany are among a handful of countries variously listed as having the densest railway network in km of routes per square km of area – most communities of any size and even many natural attractions are easily reachable by train. Train tickets in Germany and Switzerland can be expensive, but there are discount cards and early bird offers that can be used to reduce the damage. Poland neglected its railway during the later communist era, but has started investing in rail transport again, and train is a good option to reach big cities with reasonable comfort and speed. The [[sleeper train]] network has suffered a lot, but thankfully ÖBB (Austrian national rail carrier) has picked up the baton from DB and now runs [https://www.nightjet.com/en/#/home Nightjet], reasonably modern and comfortable night trains through the region. Booking in advance can net you real bargains, but popular routes and times or last minute booking might mean you'll pay significant amounts of money. ===By bus=== {{see also|Intercity buses in Germany}} The bus did not play a major role in intercity transportation in this area until 2012 when Germany opened its domestic market. Poland and the Czech Republic had fairly deregulated markets prior to that, but with few exceptions those companies never made a major foray into Germany even after the market was opened. Major players include [http://www.flixbus.com Flixbus] and [http://www.student-agency.com Student Agency]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. ===By plane=== Domestic flights are mostly aimed at business travellers and due to the excellent railway network, they can be sparse or non-existent on some routes. In general they are hardly good value in terms of money and not always a major time-saver either. That said, bargains can still be had on some routes and for larger distances, flying might save you a day in transit. ==See== [[File:Prague 07-2016 View from Petrinska Tower img2.jpg|thumbnail|Prague]] [[File:Inside Hofburg.JPG|thumbnail|Inside Hofburg, Vienna]] Though the World Wars destroyed countless buildings, Central Europe still has a wide range of [[architecture]] including [[castles]], cathedrals and [[old towns]] such as [[Rothenburg ob der Tauber]] and [[Salzburg]]. Some cities with several iconic buildings and districts: * Berlin (famous for the '''Reichstag''' Dome in the district of [[Berlin/Mitte#Spreebogen_.2F_Regierungsviertel|Mitte]] <!--but for the love of god don't climb it dressed as spiderman to make a point-->) * Frankfurt * Munich (famous for the Olympic Park, the BMW museum and the colourful central pedestrian zone) * Stroll [[Warsaw]]'s old town and old Jewish Ghetto, and take a glance at the Soviet inspired '''Palace of Culture and Science'' * Visit [[Nuremberg]] for a castle, a charming medieval old town, one of the best known [[Christmas Markets]] in the world or the chilling history of the Nazi rallies at ''Dokumentationszentrum Reichsparteitagsgelände'' – the former Nazi party rallying grounds, now a superb museum * Tour the historic old town and castle of [[Kraków]], and visit the Soviet worker's suburb of [[Kraków/Nowa Huta|Nowa Huta]] * Tour the Old Town of [[Dresden]] and see the reconstructed "Frauenkirche" a symbol of peace and reconciliation * Stroll through historic [[Vienna]] and visit the '''Prater''' district * Go up '''Castle Hill''' and admire the view of the river and city in [[Budapest]] * Visit the world's largest castle complex and tour the old and new towns of [[Prague]] * Visit the historic and elegant port city of [[Gdansk]] and it surrounding Baltic resorts Historic destinations include everything from sites of [[Prehistoric Europe]] such as [[Neanderthal]] and remnants of the [[Roman Empire]] to the horrors of the World Wars (see [[World War I]] and [[World War II in Europe]]). Hitler's infamous Eagle's Nest in [[Berchtesgaden]] in the Bavarian Alps has a good museum on the Nazi Crimes. [[Holocaust remembrance]] is an important theme with Nazi concentration camps and memorials such as [[Auschwitz]], Bergen-Belsen, Dachau or Treblinka. Central Europe has been important for [[European classical music]], with [[Vienna]] as the centre for the classicist period, and [[Bayreuth]] home to the Wagner festival. [[Salzburg]] is the hometown of Mozart, as well as the von Trapp family, which inspired ''The [[Sound of Music]]'' (which is however not that popular in Austria itself). The region also has a legacy of folk and popular music. ===Itineraries=== * The Elbe Radweg follows the eponymous river for most of its course from the [[Czech Republic]] to the North Sea near Cuxhaven – popular with expert and novice bikers alike as the route is mostly flat and well maintained. * The [[Grand Tour]] was the origin of the term "tourist", an educational journey across the continent ==Do== [[File:Train on the Jungfrau.jpg|thumbnail|Jungfraubahn in the winter]] * Cruise the river [[Rhine]] and enjoy the world-famous wine * Ride the post-modern monorail in [[Wuppertal]] * Float down the river with the locals in the Swiss capital of [[Berne]] * Ride a cable car up to [[Gimmelwald]], eat at the Piz Gloria restaurant, go out on the '''Jungfrau''' glacier, see a churning waterfall, or hike one of the countless Swiss mountain ridges While highly populated and industrialized, Central Europe still has impressive natural sceneries. The [[Alps]] are the dominant mountain range, and the birthplace of [[alpine sports]]. Lake Constance is shared between Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Among other mountainous areas are the "[[Saxon Switzerland|Saxon]] and [[Bohemian Switzerland|Bohemian]] Switzerland" south of [[Dresden]] along the Elbe/Labe, and the [[Carpathians]]. All countries have deep forests, including Germany's [[Black Forest]] and Poland's [[Białowieża National Park]], where [[Eurasian wildlife]] can be seen. The Hungarian ''puszta'' is an unusual stretch of grassland; see [[National parks in Hungary]]. The North and Baltic Sea coasts have great [[beaches]] for [[water sports]] at summer, with resort islands such as [[Heligoland]], [[Sylt]], and [[Rügen]]. [[Spas]] such as [[Karlovy Vary]] (Carlsbad) in Bohemia have a legacy of both health and pleasure. In Hungary they have a Turkish flair. The main [[spectator sport]] in most countries is football. Germany's men's and women's national teams are among the world's highest ranked, and the ''Bundesliga'' is one of Europe's major series: see [[association football in Europe]]. Motor, equestrian, track and field, and alpine sports also draw crowds. === Events === * Jazz fans will enjoy two big jazz festivals in Poland: ** "Jazz nad Odrą" in [[Wroclaw]] ** "Jazz Jamboree" in [[Warsaw]] *Germany: **Dixieland Festival [[Dresden]] **Oktoberfest [[Munich]] ==Eat== [[File:Hungarian Goulash Recipe.png|thumb|Hungarian goulash (gulyás), accompanied by pasta and parsley]] While Central Europe spans different nationalities and climates, some culinary traditions can be found all across the region. Overall, Central European cuisines tend to be simple and hearty, with an emphasis on [[meat]] and starch, a diet which helped people survive the harsh winters in the olden days. Poland, Germany and Austria are rightly famous for their various types of sausages, and it would take a generous academic grant and a lot of time to sample them all. In the [[Alps]], the cuisine has taken a lot of inspiration from high mountain cattle farming and is thus heavy in savory cheese or durable dry ingredients like ''muesli'' (or ''müsli'' outside of Switzerland). The ''haute cuisine'' of [[French cuisine|France]] and staples of [[Italian cuisine|Italian food]] have made a big impact on Central European cuisine (not least in Austria) as have the culinary traditions of immigrants from [[Turkey]], the Balkans or (South) East Asia, and restaurants serving such cuisines exist at varying price, quality and authenticity in almost all major cities in the region. The North European Plain has a temperate climate, allowing for rich grain harvests and dairy farming. Fruits and vegetables have traditionally been fewer than south of the Alps, and have traditionally been dried or pickled for preservation. The [[Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth]] dominated the region during the early modern era and was over time displaced by the [[Austro-Hungarian Empire]]. While the potato was introduced in the 17th century for its flowers, it took some centuries to become the most important staple crop. [[Judaism|Ashkenazi Jews]] used to be a significant minority in Central Europe. Most of them emigrated to the Americas and Israel in the 19th or 20th century, or perished in [[Holocaust remembrance|the Holocaust]]. Dishes such as bagels and ''gefilte fish'' originate from Central Europe. The region was divided during the [[Cold War Europe|Cold War]]. While the west got an influx of imported food and foreign cuisines, the eastern countries depended on domestic ingredients, many of which were rationed. The abundance of tropical fruits such as bananas in West Germany, compared to the scarcity in the East, was one of the most visible differences between the countries. With the fall of the Iron Curtain and the expansion of the [[European Union]], most of the world's foodstuffs are available across the region, and [[legacy food markets]] are an attraction in their own right. * [[German cuisine]] has local varieties such as [[Bavarian cuisine|Bavarian]] and [[Franconian cuisine]]. Germany might be among the most cosmopolitan countries in Central Europe, with a high presence of foreign cuisines, particularly Turkish and Italian. * [[Switzerland]] combines German, French and Italian flavours. It is famous for its [[cheese]], with ''fondue'' as its national dish. * [[Austria]] is known for high-end cuisine from the [[Austro-Hungarian Empire]] with great pastries and confections such as the ''Sachertorte''. * [[Liechtenstein]] has a cuisine similar to Switzerland and Austria. * [[Poland]] is famous for its ''kluski'' (unfilled boiled dumplings) and ''pierogi'' (fried filled dumplings). * The [[Czech Republic]] stands out for sweetened main courses. Dumplings known as ''knedlíky'', made of bread or potato, are a common accompaniment to Czech dishes. It is the world leader in beer consumption per capita, as the home of Pilsner beer from [[Plzen]] beer and famous lagers including Budvar from [[České Budějovice]]. * [[Slovakia]] has a cuisine typical of the region with ''halušky'', a potato dumpling, as an iconic dish, and sheep milk products. * [[Hungary]] has the spiciest food in the region, with ''paprika'' as an omnipresent seasoning. Its Austro-Hungarian heritage is evident in its coffeehouses and rich pastries. * [[Slovenia]] is the crossroads of the three major European cultures, with flavours of Austria, the Balkans and Italy. ===Dishes=== [[File:Dülmen, Bürgerfest 2013 -- 2013 -- 3139.jpg|thumb|Bratwürste grilling at a German festival]] Most meals are based on [[meat]], with pork being most common. There is a rising [[vegetarian]]/vegan community, especially in the western and more cosmopolitan cities. Lamb, mutton and game are common in mountain regions. '''Sausages''' are common across Central Europe. '''Schnitzel''' is a meat dish with varieties around the region. Dairy products such as [[cheese]] are common, made from cow, sheep and goat milk. [[Seafood]] is common in the coastal waters of Germany and Poland, with freshwater fish appearing inland. [[Bread]] of different cereals is a staple in Central Europe, and served as part of most meals. Pastries and cakes such as the ''Strudel'' are common. '''Potatoes''' are the most common staple beside bread; they are boiled, fried, mashed or used as potato flour. '''Dumplings''' are based on flour or potatoes, filled or unfilled, boiled or fried. [[Fruits and vegetables]] are traditionally fewer and more savoury than in southern Europe. They are usually pickled, and occasionally fermented, such as in ''sauerkraut''. Hungary makes great cucumber salad (''uborkasaláta''). ==Drink== [[File:Vagues humaines (8274661671).jpg|thumbnail|Munich's yearly Oktoberfest is a must for beer friends]] While [[wine]] is made in Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, Hungary is the region's best known wine country. '''Tokaji''' is a famous wine region in Hungary and Slovakia, known for sweet wines. * '''[[Beer]]''' – The golden beer drunk throughout the world was developed in this region, and arguably it is here that it is still at its best. The [[Czech Republic]] has a grand brewing heritage and [[Pilsen]] is the place where the technique was pioneered, creating the Pilsner style that is reproduced around the world. The low cost of beer in the Czech Republic makes it easy to get a taste of many of the fabulous beers, from the well-known Pilsner Urquell, Budvar (Budweiser) and Staropramen, to local favourites such as Kozel, Bernard and Gambrinus. Many have a few different varieties and a Cerny Pivo (Black Beer) these can be as good if not better than the standard beer. [[Slovakia]] has many beers of high quality with Zlaty Bazant being highly regarded. [[Hungary]], [[Poland]], and [[Slovenia]] all have very good national examples sometimes on a par with those from the Czech lands. [[Germany]], [[Austria]] and [[Switzerland]] have a similar brewing heritage, but can throw in several different types of beer. Weissbier, (Wheat Beer) is a refreshing style popular in summer but drunk year round. There are a huge amount of varieties and local specialties are nearly always worth seeking out. Generally, the further north one travels in Germany, the more bitter or hoppy the beer becomes adding to the north-south cultural divide. [[Bavaria]], "the Holy Grail of Brewing", located in southern Germany, has over 600 breweries alone and even more accompanying beers to sample! * '''[[Wine]]''' – The region produces a wide range of wines from superb world famous regions, down to inexpensive local plonk. Possibly the finest region in the area is the [[Tokaj-Hegyalja]] region shared between [[Hungary]] and [[Slovakia]] that is world-renowned for its sweet dessert wines as well as more standard whites. Germany has several wine regions; the [[Rhine]] and Moselle Valleys are well known for their fragrant white wines. Saxony in the east is home to a small wine-growing region on the riverbanks of the Elbe. Austria and Switzerland also produce some very high quality products. In the other countries like Slovenia, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, local wines can throw up some very good varieties and it is always worth investigating local produce. * Each country has a range of '''[[distilled beverages]]'''. Plain and seasoned '''vodka''' is popular in the Slavic countries. ''Pálinka'', brandy often made from apricots, and ''slivovitz'', a plum liquor or liqueur, are also popular. The quality of Polish vodka is among the best in the world. The high quality product can be very different to the industrial stuff you may buy in your local shop and is well worth a try. Zubrowka is a variety of vodka flavoured with a cinnamon-like grass and is delicious when combined with apple juice. Some claim it to be so good it produces no hangover, but you might not want to test that. ===Nightlife=== [[Berlin]] has a famous avant-garde [[nightlife]] scene known for electronic music, LGBT clubs and concerts. [[Prague]], [[Munich]] and [[Budapest]] are also known for nightlife. ==Stay safe== The western part of this region is probably one of the safest in the world with violent [[crime]] being rare in Germany, Poland, Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. While the situation in some parts of countries that used to be east of the iron curtain is by no means bad, certain neighbourhood in the bigger cities do have the typical big-city issues and also some crime arising from it. As in most of Europe, [[pickpocketing]] is a main risk factor for visitors. Unfortunately, racism is an issue to varying degrees in all of these countries, might it be harsher against immigrants, than tourists and business travellers. Antiziganism (hatred towards and discrimination against Sinti and Roma "gypsies") is particularly common in parts of the area with large Sinti and Roma populations but can be found in most of Central Europe to saddening degrees. Political rallies by extremist groups can get violent, as can bigger left-wing counter-demonstrations. Natural forces in Central Europe are rarely dangerous. Winter comes with [[cold weather]] and associated risks (see [[snow safety]] and [[ice safety]]), in particular in the Alps and other highlands. At summer, [[pests]] such as wasps, mosquitoes and ticks can be a nuisance. ==Respect== Despite the tendency by many around the world to refer to all countries formerly behind the Iron Curtain as "Eastern Europe", inhabitants of Central Europe will be much more happy if you describe their countries as "Central European" both geographically and culturally. Remember that Austrians, Liechtensteiners and most Swiss and Luxembourgers ''speak'' German but are not German! Czech, Polish and Slovakian are related to Russian, but inhabitants of these countries will not take kindly to assumptions of cultural overlap. Lastly, keep in mind that the Czech Republic and Slovakia once shared a country as well and Slovaks in general are very proud of their newfound independence, which will show especially if there is an opportunity to beat the Czech at soccer or ice hockey. Performing a Nazi salute is a criminal offence in Germany, Austria, Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The penalty is typically a fine; however, in Germany and Austria, any person caught performing a Nazi salute can be imprisoned too. In Switzerland, use of the salute is not a criminal offence in itself, but doing so for the purpose of actively promoting Nazi ideology is considered to constitute hate speech, which is. Displaying the Swastika is also a criminal offence, though in Germany, exceptions are made for religious Swastikas. ==Go next== {{isPartOf|Europe}} {{outlineregion}} {{geo|50.2|13.7|zoom=6}} cficzqahggw9wikw4x1g9gf1es1fk5e 5288879 5288837 2026-06-06T15:07:01Z Ikan Kekek 36420 -redundancy 5288879 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Hruba Skala chateau Wikivoyage banner.jpg|caption=Karkonosze Pass between Poland and the Czech Republic}} '''Central Europe''' is one of [[Europe]]'s most beautiful regions. Long divided by the ambitions of warring empires and then Cold War tensions, this region was deeply influenced by the [[Holy Roman Empire]], the [[Ottoman Empire]], the [[Russian Empire]] and the [[USSR]]. It was also influenced by the formation of the [[Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth]], the [[Habsburg Monarchy]], [[Yugoslavia]] and the [[German Empire]]. All the countries in this area are [[Travelling around the Schengen Area|Schengen]] members and, with the exceptions of tiny [[Liechtenstein]] and staunchly neutral [[Switzerland]], they are also [[European Union|EU]] members, so travelling between them is a breeze. ==Countries== [[Croatia]] and [[Lithuania]] may also be included in the definition of Central Europe. At Wikivoyage they are handled as part of the [[Balkans]] and the [[Baltic states]], respectively. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Central Europe Regions.png | regionmaptext=Countries of Central Europe | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | regionmapsize=450px | region1name=[[Austria]] | region1color=#71b37b | region1items= | region1description=Breathtaking Alpine panoramas, where you can ski or hike – but also e.g. the cosmopolitan city of Vienna with a unique charm; Vienna coffee houses were both the start of many a story and the place where many stories have been written. | region2name=[[Czech Republic]] | region2color=#d8d036 | region2items= | region2description=A Slavic country surrounded by German-speakers, where fairytale forests and beautiful mountains are a nice addition to the charming cities that survived both wars and communism, and the hearty and filling cuisine is just one more reason to stay. | region3name=[[Germany]] | region3color=#c17da7 | region3items= | region3description=Both the most populous and the most economically powerful country in the [[European Union]], Germany is an incredibly diverse nation that offers everything from skiing in the Alps to sunbathing on the coasts, old towns dating back to the [[Roman Empire]] and ultramodern architecture in cities like Frankfurt. | region4name=[[Hungary]] | region4color=#d09440 | region4items= | region4description=A favourite with Easterners during the Cold War, Hungary today is one of the often overlooked gems of Europe. The country is esteemed for its ornate Turkish bathhouses, a remnant of Ottoman rule. Situated on the western edge of the Eurasian Steppe, it boasts wide grasslands, whilst also featuring several mountain ranges. | region5name=[[Liechtenstein]] | region5color=#2e9bbb | region5items= | region5description=While you might associate Liechtenstein with shady financial deals and strange politics, this tiny Alpine principality by the Rhine is well worth a short stop. | region6name=[[Poland]] | region6color=#4f93c0 | region6items= | region6description=This beautiful country has a long and brave history spanning thousands of years. With the beautiful Baltic Sea to the north and the Sudetes and Carpathian Mountains in the south, Poland is a diverse gem. | region7name=[[Slovakia]] | region7color=#8a84a3 | region7items= | region7description=Often mistaken as simply an appendix of "big brother" Czech Republic, this small ice hockey-crazy nation has made good use of its independence, won in 1993, and now offers a unique blend of influences that come together in its capital Bratislava as well as the skiing resorts of Europe's smallest high mountain range, the High Tatras. | region8name=[[Slovenia]] | region8color=#e25c5c | region8items= | region8description=This small post-Yugoslav nation features the Adriatic sea and the Alps, South Slavic, Romance, Slavic and Germanic influences and boasts enough foreign languages to welcome visitors from all around the globe | region9name=[[Switzerland]] | region9color=#e0fa92 | region9items= | region9description=With four official languages and strong regional identities in over two dozen cantons, Switzerland is one of the most diverse countries in Europe. It is also rightly famous for chocolate, cheese, watches, banks and neutrality as well as the culture of honest debate and consensus that binds it all together }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q40|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Austria]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q213|fill=#d8d036|title=[[Czech Republic]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q183|fill=#c17da7|title=[[Germany]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q28|fill=#d09440|title=[[Hungary]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q347|fill=#2e9bbb|title=[[Liechtenstein]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q36|fill=#4f93c0|title=[[Poland]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q214|fill=#8a84a3|title=[[Slovakia]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q215|fill=#e25c5c|title=[[Slovenia]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q39|fill=#e0fa92|title=[[Switzerland]]}} ==Cities== [[File:Bratislava Panorama R01.jpg|thumbnail|[[Bratislava]]]] <!-- Please don't change this list without first discussing the issue on the Talk page. --> There are way more cities of interest in Central Europe than would be convenient to list in one article. Below is a list of nine of the most notable: * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Berlin]]|wikidata=Q64}} — divided by force for 45 years during the Cold War, the capital of reunified Germany since 1990, and now an international cultural centre * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bratislava]]|wikidata=Q1780}} — Once known as "Pressburg", this city has seen both Austro-German and Hungarian influences and has thankfully survived the world wars largely unscathed * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Budapest]]|wikidata=Q1781}} — made up of old Buda and Pest on both sides of the Danube, this old Austro-Hungarian co-capital is famous for its thermal baths and was the second city in the world to get a metro * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Geneva]]|wikidata=Q71}} — Switzerland's second city is very much a global city with its location close to the French border and the countless international organisations from CERN to the Red Cross headquartered here * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ljubljana]]|wikidata=Q437}} — the picturesque Alpine capital of Slovenia and a charming baroque city with stunning architecture and dynamic nightlife * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Munich]]|wikidata=Q1726}} — Bavaria's beautiful capital city, its slogan is 'world city with a heart' (Weltstadt mit Herz), the site of the famous Oktoberfest, Hofbräuhaus, many beer gardens and the gateway to the Alps. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Prague]]|wikidata=Q1085}} — home of Kafka and castles and one of the centres of power of the medieval Holy Roman Empire, as well as seat of the oldest university north of the Alps, Prague today draws countless young tourists for its affordable and tasty beer * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Vienna]]|wikidata=Q1741}} — An erstwhile imperial capital famous for its coffee houses, the arts and culture, this city looks at least two sizes too large for the tiny country it sits in * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Warsaw]]|wikidata=Q270}} — capital of Poland, and one of the EU's thriving new business centres; the old town, nearly completely destroyed during World War II, has been rebuilt in a style inspired by classicist paintings of Canaletto. ==Other destinations== [[File:Fonyód.jpg|thumbnail|View of Lake Balaton]] * {{marker|name=[[Alps]]|wikidata=Q1286}} — probably one of the most important winter destinations in the world, that is home to summer resorts too. * {{marker|name=[[Auschwitz-Birkenau]]|wikidata=Q7341}} — Nazi death camp that was the centre of the Holocaust for European Jews during World War II. * {{marker|name=[[Białowieża National Park]]|wikidata=Q6870388}} — a UNESCO world heritage site, this is the largest remainder of Europe's primeval forest. * {{marker|name=[[Black Forest]]|wikidata=Q4204}} — known for cuckoo clocks and cherry cake, this region also offers stunning landscapes. * {{marker|name=[[Bohemian Paradise]]|wikidata=Q341327}} — unique geographical formations within the oldest protected parkland in the Czech Republic. * {{marker|name=[[Lake Balaton]]|wikidata=Q6383}} — a large but shallow lake that was a favourite with Easterners during the Cold War. * {{marker|name=[[Füssen|Neuschwanstein Castle]]|wikidata=Q262684}} — built by eccentric Bavarian King Ludwig II this castle has been an inspiration for Disney. * {{marker|name=[[High Tatras]]|wikidata=Q690323}} — Europe's smallest high mountain range is slowly being "discovered" as a hiking and skiing destination beyond its immediate vicinity. ==Understand== [[Image:Neuschwanstein wts.jpg|thumb|350px|Castles appearing straight out of fairy tales dot the entire landscape of Central Europe. Pictured here is Schloss Neuschwanstein near [[Füssen]], [[Germany]].]] While ethnically different, the countries of Central Europe share a similar culture and history throughout the ages. Whereas still in 1990, barbed wire and walls and unfriendly border agents would hinder free movement, today frequent rail and bus connections, cheap flights and excellent roads make getting around easier than ever before. But before you plan your "Central Europe in two weeks" trip, do consider the many small towns and beautiful unspoiled nature reserves that would fall by the wayside were you to concentrate on the many top highlights. ===History=== In the Middle Ages, the region was dominated by the [[Holy Roman Empire]], a patchwork of feudal fiefs, city-states and other smaller entities including the [[Hansa]], until it lost much of its power in the [[Thirty Years War]]. The region was dominated by the [[Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth]], the [[Austro-Hungarian Empire]], and later the [[German Empire]]. [[German phrasebook|German]] was the ''lingua franca'' of the region well into the 20th century. While the ethnic mosaic of the region was not a major source of conflict until the 19th century, nationalism and racism made it an increasingly divisive issue ultimately resulting in the horrors of the [[World War II in Europe|Second World War]] and [[Holocaust remembrance|the Holocaust]]. During the [[Cold War Europe|Cold War]] the region was divided between east and west by the figurative Iron Curtain, but since the revolutions around 1990, [[Germany]] has been reunified, most countries in the region have joined the European Union, with Switzerland and Liechtenstein having close ties to the EU. ===Culture=== Economic and cultural gaps remain in the region, even between neighbours – while many Polish people are devout Catholics, Czech people are rarely religious – and within countries such as the federal Germany. In general, the west is wealthier and more cosmopolitan than the east; though since gaining EU membership, some cities of the east, such as Warsaw and Ljubljana, have seen tremendous economic growth. The regions of western [[Ukraine]], [[Transylvania]] (Romania), [[Kaliningrad Oblast]] (Russia), [[Alsace]] and parts of [[Lorraine]] (France), and [[South Tyrol|South Tyrol/Alto-Adige]] (Italy), not covered by this article, are sometimes also considered Central European. This is due either to their current or past ethnic makeup or their previous political histories. Kaliningrad Oblast spent most of its history as a German-speaking region and South Tirol remains a largely German-speaking region in northern Italy maintaining strong cultural ties to Austria. Even though Ukraine is predominantly an Orthodox Christian country, its westernmost part for the centuries was part of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and later passed to Austria-Hungary. ===Climate=== Central Europe has temperate climate with four seasons. The further inland, the greater are temperature differences between summer and winter. Summers have more daylight than winters, with difference increasing further north: in [[Hamburg]], sun sets at 16:00 in December, and 22:00 (DST) in June. ==Talk== Central Europe has much linguistic diversity with a wide spread of the Germanic, Slavic, Uralic and Romance language families. Except the Uralic Hungarian, all are Indo-European. All the endemic languages in their modern form are written with the Latin script, although some of them use diacritics extensively. Finding people who speak and understand '''English''' is not a problem in most regions of Central Europe. Quite a few also of those who don't speak English speak [[German]] and [[Russian]] as second languages. Generally speaking, foreign language proficiency is greater the further west and north you go, and in urban areas in general, while people from wealthier regions tend to have better fluency. With the notable exception of Russian and German, which were more commonly taught before the 1990s, young people will often speak foreign languages better than older people. ===Germanic languages=== [[File:Dackel mit Bierkrug.jpg|thumb|Early 20th century postcard with Swabian German writing; "The beer belongs to my master!"]] [[German phrasebook|German]] has the largest number of native speakers in the region and is the official language for Germany, Austria and Liechtenstein, and is co-official in Switzerland (alongside French, Italian and Romansh). [[Swiss-German phrasebook|Swiss German]] differs from Standard German, but what is taught in Swiss schools is close enough. Low German and Frisian are spoken by some – and used also in some formal contexts – but the speakers are bilingual with Standard German. ===Slavic Languages=== The [[Czech phrasebook|Czech]] and [[Slovak phrasebook|Slovak]] languages are closely related, with the Sorbian language spoken in eastern Germany near the Polish frontier also a close relative. [[Polish phrasebook|Polish]] is the main language of Poland, although the country does host some minority Slavic languages such as Kashubian in Pomerania and Silesian in south-west Poland. [[Slovenian phrasebook|Slovenian]] is the official language of Slovenia, but it is also spoken by the Slovenian minorities in southern Austria, north-eastern Italy and western Hungary. There is also a small [[Croatian]] minority in Austria's Burgenland. While [[Russian phrasebook|Russian]] is not endemic to the region, it was taught in schools east of the Iron Curtain. ===Hungarian=== [[File:Eloszallas Hungary road signs.JPG|thumb|Road signs in Old Hungarian and modern Hungarian (Latin) script]] A Uralic language, [[Hungarian phrasebook|Hungarian]] is an outlier in Central Europe, and considered one of the most difficult languages for English speakers to learn due to its complexity. There are 5 million Hungarian speakers living outside Hungary in regions of neighbouring countries, such as eastern Austria and southern Slovakia, plus in Romania (Transylvania) and northern Serbia. ===Romance languages=== [[French phrasebook|French]] and [[Italian phrasebook|Italian]] are spoken by the majority of the population in the western and southern regions of Switzerland respectively, while German is commonly taught as a second language. Similarly, German-speaking Swiss often learn French as a second language. In the Swiss Canton of Graubünden or Grison, Romansh is spoken as a regional language. It is notable for being very close to Latin. Almost all Romansh speakers speak either Swiss German or Italian. ==Get in== The best entry point to the region depends mostly on your travel plans and itinerary. Prices for flights can vary significantly depending on the airport you fly into, and due to the excellent transportation connections, you have a wide selection available. ===By plane=== [[File:2011-06-14 10-23-56 Austria Niederösterreich Fischamend Markt.jpg|thumbnail|[[VIE|Vienna International Airport]] serves destinations in Austria, Slovakia and Hungary]] {{seealso|Flying in Europe}} By far the busiest and best connected airport in the region is [[Frankfurt Airport]] in [[Hesse]], Germany, which offers connections from all inhabited continents and from most big airports in Europe. [[Zürich]], [[Munich Airport|Munich]] and [[Vienna International Airport|Vienna]] airports also see their share of intercontinental travel with Vienna in particular having a focus on connections to the Middle East. Some of the minor airports may also offer a limited number of direct flights mostly from other parts of Europe, or from North Africa or the Middle East. Seasonal flights to "sunny" destinations like [[Antalya]] or [[Mallorca]] are pretty common even at the most minor airports that otherwise only have feeder flights to one or two hubs. ===By train=== {{see also|Rail travel in Europe}} [[File:2013-06-08 Highflyer HP L4729.JPG|thumb|350px|Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (Central railway station)]] Central Europe has a dense [[high-speed rail]] network: * InterCityExpress ([[ICE]]) trains offer connections across Germany, but are also run in partnership with the Austrian, French and Dutch railways. * The French TGV connects [[France]] with [[Geneva]], [[Berne]], [[Basel]] and [[Zurich]]. Also there are connections to [[Karlsruhe]], [[Stuttgart]], [[Munich]] and [[Frankfurt]]. * Thalys trains connect [[Cologne]] with [[Brussels]] and [[Paris]] * RailJet connects Vienna with Zürich, Munich and Budapest. The Czech Republic has also acquired some Railjet-trains to connect Prague to the rest of Europe, mostly Austria. * Pendolinos are run in Slovenia and the Czech Republic with connections to neighboring countries. In addition, there are numerous night- and other express and regular trains that connect Central Europe with the rest of continental Europe, and travel as far as [[Istanbul]] or [[Moscow]]. Check the homepage of the [http://www.bahn.de/international/view/en/index.shtml Deutsche Bahn], which has an excellent overview of the European rail system. The long and slow decline of the Central European [[sleeper train]] seems to have been stopped for now, with ÖBB operating the lion's share of them under the [https://www.nightjet.com/en/#/home Nightjet] brand. There are also some night trains run by other railways, mostly east of the former Iron Curtain. Cross-border train tickets are sometimes sold by several different railways under varying prices and conditions, so shop around a bit. ===By car=== The days of long lines at the border are thankfully largely over due to increasing European integration. That said, even 25 years after the end of the Cold War there are still bottlenecks for traffic across the former Iron Curtain. ===By bus=== {{see also|Intercity buses in Europe}} Buses used to be a niche market if that, mostly catering to immigrants from the [[Balkans]] and their descendants. However, since a liberalisation of [[Intercity buses in Germany| the market in Germany]] (and subsequently in France), more and more bus companies offer domestic and international routes throughout and in and out of Central Europe. As a rule of thumb, short hops can be incredibly cheap with prices like {{EUR|5}} not unheard of, but the longer the distance and the later you book, the more expensive it gets. While routes like London–Cologne ''are'' offered, they don't necessarily offer much of a saving compared to a flight or train. ==Get around== [[File:Oberalp 2.JPG|thumbnail|At the top of the Oberalp mountain pass, Central Switzerland]] {{Schengen|name=All the countries of Central Europe are members}} ===By car=== {{seealso|Driving in Europe}} Roads are generally in good to excellent condition and the Czech Republic and Poland in particular have been investing a lot in road construction to deal with the pent up demand since 1990 when cars became much more common. That said, there are some issues with congestion, particularly in large cities. Crossing borders with your own car should be no problem whatsoever, but rental car contracts sometimes have limitations, especially for German or Austrian cars to be taken east – those usually don't apply the other way round, so read the fine print carefully before committing to anything. If you plan to visit large cities, you should try working around having a car on the days you'll be there or forego one entirely as cars are more of a headache than a useful tool in cities of roughly 500 000 or more inhabitants. ===By train=== The Czech Republic, Switzerland and Germany are among a handful of countries variously listed as having the densest railway network in km of routes per square km of area – most communities of any size and even many natural attractions are easily reachable by train. Train tickets in Germany and Switzerland can be expensive, but there are discount cards and early bird offers that can be used to reduce the damage. Poland neglected its railway during the later communist era, but has started investing in rail transport again, and train is a good option to reach big cities with reasonable comfort and speed. The [[sleeper train]] network has suffered a lot, but thankfully ÖBB (Austrian national rail carrier) has picked up the baton from DB and now runs [https://www.nightjet.com/en/#/home Nightjet], reasonably modern and comfortable night trains through the region. Booking in advance can net you real bargains, but popular routes and times or last minute booking might mean you'll pay significant amounts of money. ===By bus=== {{see also|Intercity buses in Germany}} The bus did not play a major role in intercity transportation in this area until 2012 when Germany opened its domestic market. Poland and the Czech Republic had fairly deregulated markets prior to that, but with few exceptions those companies never made a major foray into Germany even after the market was opened. Major players include [http://www.flixbus.com Flixbus] and [http://www.student-agency.com Student Agency]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. ===By plane=== Domestic flights are mostly aimed at business travellers and due to the excellent railway network, they can be sparse or non-existent on some routes. In general they are hardly good value in terms of money and not always a major time-saver either. That said, bargains can still be had on some routes and for larger distances, flying might save you a day in transit. ==See== [[File:Prague 07-2016 View from Petrinska Tower img2.jpg|thumbnail|Prague]] [[File:Inside Hofburg.JPG|thumbnail|Inside Hofburg, Vienna]] Though the World Wars destroyed countless buildings, Central Europe still has a wide range of [[architecture]] including [[castles]], cathedrals and [[old towns]] such as [[Rothenburg ob der Tauber]] and [[Salzburg]]. Some cities with several iconic buildings and districts: * Berlin (famous for the '''Reichstag''' Dome in the district of [[Berlin/Mitte#Spreebogen_.2F_Regierungsviertel|Mitte]] <!--but for the love of god don't climb it dressed as spiderman to make a point-->) * Frankfurt * Munich (famous for the Olympic Park, the BMW museum and the colourful central pedestrian zone) * Stroll [[Warsaw]]'s old town and old Jewish Ghetto, and take a glance at the Soviet inspired '''Palace of Culture and Science'' * Visit [[Nuremberg]] for a castle, a charming medieval old town, one of the best known [[Christmas Markets]] in the world or the chilling history of the Nazi rallies at ''Dokumentationszentrum Reichsparteitagsgelände'' – the former Nazi party rallying grounds, now a superb museum * Tour the historic old town and castle of [[Kraków]], and visit the Soviet worker's suburb of [[Kraków/Nowa Huta|Nowa Huta]] * Tour the Old Town of [[Dresden]] and see the reconstructed "Frauenkirche" a symbol of peace and reconciliation * Stroll through historic [[Vienna]] and visit the '''Prater''' district * Go up '''Castle Hill''' and admire the view of the river and city in [[Budapest]] * Visit the world's largest castle complex and tour the old and new towns of [[Prague]] * Visit the historic and elegant port city of [[Gdansk]] and it surrounding Baltic resorts Historic destinations include everything from sites of [[Prehistoric Europe]] such as [[Neanderthal]] and remnants of the [[Roman Empire]] to the horrors of the World Wars (see [[World War I]] and [[World War II in Europe]]). Hitler's infamous Eagle's Nest in [[Berchtesgaden]] in the Bavarian Alps has a good museum on the Nazi Crimes. [[Holocaust remembrance]] is an important theme with Nazi concentration camps and memorials such as [[Auschwitz]], Bergen-Belsen, Dachau or Treblinka. Central Europe has been important for [[European classical music]], with [[Vienna]] as the centre for the classicist period, and [[Bayreuth]] home to the Wagner festival. [[Salzburg]] is the hometown of Mozart, as well as the von Trapp family, which inspired ''The [[Sound of Music]]'' (which is however not that popular in Austria itself). The region also has a legacy of folk and popular music. ===Itineraries=== * The Elbe Radweg follows the eponymous river for most of its course from the [[Czech Republic]] to the North Sea near Cuxhaven – popular with expert and novice bikers alike as the route is mostly flat and well maintained. * The [[Grand Tour]] was the origin of the term "tourist", an educational journey across the continent ==Do== [[File:Train on the Jungfrau.jpg|thumbnail|Jungfraubahn in the winter]] * Cruise the river [[Rhine]] and enjoy the world-famous wine * Ride the post-modern monorail in [[Wuppertal]] * Float down the river with the locals in the Swiss capital of [[Berne]] * Ride a cable car up to [[Gimmelwald]], eat at the Piz Gloria restaurant, go out on the '''Jungfrau''' glacier, see a churning waterfall, or hike one of the countless Swiss mountain ridges While highly populated and industrialized, Central Europe still has impressive natural sceneries. The [[Alps]] are the dominant mountain range, and the birthplace of [[alpine sports]]. Lake Constance is shared between Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Among other mountainous areas are the "[[Saxon Switzerland|Saxon]] and [[Bohemian Switzerland|Bohemian]] Switzerland" south of [[Dresden]] along the Elbe/Labe, and the [[Carpathians]]. All countries have deep forests, including Germany's [[Black Forest]] and Poland's [[Białowieża National Park]], where [[Eurasian wildlife]] can be seen. The Hungarian ''puszta'' is an unusual stretch of grassland; see [[National parks in Hungary]]. The North and Baltic Sea coasts have great [[beaches]] for [[water sports]] at summer, with resort islands such as [[Heligoland]], [[Sylt]], and [[Rügen]]. [[Spas]] such as [[Karlovy Vary]] (Carlsbad) in Bohemia have a legacy of both health and pleasure. In Hungary they have a Turkish flair. The main [[spectator sport]] in most countries is football. Germany's men's and women's national teams are among the world's highest ranked, and the ''Bundesliga'' is one of Europe's major series: see [[association football in Europe]]. Motor, equestrian, track and field, and alpine sports also draw crowds. === Events === * Jazz fans will enjoy two big jazz festivals in Poland: ** "Jazz nad Odrą" in [[Wroclaw]] ** "Jazz Jamboree" in [[Warsaw]] *Germany: **Dixieland Festival [[Dresden]] **Oktoberfest [[Munich]] ==Eat== [[File:Hungarian Goulash Recipe.png|thumb|Hungarian goulash (gulyás), accompanied by pasta and parsley]] While Central Europe spans different nationalities and climates, some culinary traditions can be found all across the region. Overall, Central European cuisines tend to be simple and hearty, with an emphasis on [[meat]] and starch, a diet which helped people survive the harsh winters in the olden days. Poland, Germany and Austria are rightly famous for their various types of sausages, and it would take a generous academic grant and a lot of time to sample them all. In the [[Alps]], the cuisine has taken a lot of inspiration from high mountain cattle farming and is thus heavy in savory cheese or durable dry ingredients like ''muesli'' (or ''müsli'' outside of Switzerland). The ''haute cuisine'' of [[French cuisine|France]] and staples of [[Italian cuisine|Italian food]] have made a big impact on Central European cuisine (not least in Austria) as have the culinary traditions of immigrants from [[Turkey]], the Balkans or (South) East Asia, and restaurants serving such cuisines exist at varying price, quality and authenticity in almost all major cities in the region. The North European Plain has a temperate climate, allowing for rich grain harvests and dairy farming. Fruits and vegetables have traditionally been fewer than south of the Alps, and have traditionally been dried or pickled for preservation. The [[Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth]] dominated the region during the early modern era and was over time displaced by the [[Austro-Hungarian Empire]]. While the potato was introduced in the 17th century for its flowers, it took some centuries to become the most important staple crop. [[Judaism|Ashkenazi Jews]] used to be a significant minority in Central Europe. Most of them emigrated to the Americas and Israel in the 19th or 20th century, or perished in [[Holocaust remembrance|the Holocaust]]. Dishes such as bagels and ''gefilte fish'' originate from Central Europe. The region was divided during the [[Cold War Europe|Cold War]]. While the west got an influx of imported food and foreign cuisines, the eastern countries depended on domestic ingredients, many of which were rationed. The abundance of tropical fruits such as bananas in West Germany, compared to the scarcity in the East, was one of the most visible differences between the countries. With the fall of the Iron Curtain and the expansion of the [[European Union]], most of the world's foodstuffs are available across the region, and [[legacy food markets]] are an attraction in their own right. * [[German cuisine]] has local varieties such as [[Bavarian cuisine|Bavarian]] and [[Franconian cuisine]]. Germany might be among the most cosmopolitan countries in Central Europe, with a high presence of foreign cuisines, particularly Turkish and Italian. * [[Switzerland]] combines German, French and Italian flavours. It is famous for its [[cheese]], with ''fondue'' as its national dish. * [[Austria]] is known for high-end cuisine from the [[Austro-Hungarian Empire]] with great pastries and confections such as the ''Sachertorte''. * [[Liechtenstein]] has a cuisine similar to Switzerland and Austria. * [[Poland]] is famous for its ''kluski'' (unfilled boiled dumplings) and ''pierogi'' (fried filled dumplings). * The [[Czech Republic]] stands out for sweetened main courses. Dumplings known as ''knedlíky'', made of bread or potato, are a common accompaniment to Czech dishes. It is the world leader in beer consumption per capita, as the home of Pilsner beer from [[Plzen]] beer and famous lagers including Budvar from [[České Budějovice]]. * [[Slovakia]] has a cuisine typical of the region with ''halušky'', a potato dumpling, as an iconic dish, and sheep milk products. * [[Hungary]] has the spiciest food in the region, with ''paprika'' as an omnipresent seasoning. Its Austro-Hungarian heritage is evident in its coffeehouses and rich pastries. * [[Slovenia]] is the crossroads of the three major European cultures, with flavours of Austria, the Balkans and Italy. ===Dishes=== [[File:Dülmen, Bürgerfest 2013 -- 2013 -- 3139.jpg|thumb|Bratwürste grilling at a German festival]] Most meals are based on [[meat]], with pork being most common. There is a rising [[vegetarian]]/vegan community, especially in the western and more cosmopolitan cities. Lamb, mutton and game are common in mountain regions. '''Sausages''' are common across Central Europe. '''Schnitzel''' is a meat dish with varieties around the region. Dairy products such as [[cheese]] are common, made from cow, sheep and goat milk. [[Seafood]] is common in the coastal waters of Germany and Poland, with freshwater fish appearing inland. [[Bread]] of different cereals is a staple in Central Europe, and served as part of most meals. Pastries and cakes such as the ''Strudel'' are common. '''Potatoes''' are the most common staple beside bread; they are boiled, fried, mashed or used as potato flour. '''Dumplings''' are based on flour or potatoes, filled or unfilled, boiled or fried. [[Fruits and vegetables]] are traditionally fewer and more savoury than in southern Europe. They are usually pickled, and occasionally fermented, such as in ''sauerkraut''. Hungary makes great cucumber salad (''uborkasaláta''). ==Drink== [[File:Vagues humaines (8274661671).jpg|thumbnail|Munich's yearly Oktoberfest is a must for beer friends]] While [[wine]] is made in Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, Hungary is the region's best known wine country. '''Tokaji''' is a famous wine region in Hungary and Slovakia, known for sweet wines. * '''[[Beer]]''' – The golden beer drunk throughout the world was developed in this region, and arguably it is here that it is still at its best. The [[Czech Republic]] has a grand brewing heritage and [[Pilsen]] is the place where the technique was pioneered, creating the Pilsner style that is reproduced around the world. The low cost of beer in the Czech Republic makes it easy to get a taste of many of the fabulous beers, from the well-known Pilsner Urquell, Budvar (Budweiser) and Staropramen, to local favourites such as Kozel, Bernard and Gambrinus. Many have a few different varieties and a Cerny Pivo (Black Beer) these can be as good if not better than the standard beer. [[Slovakia]] has many beers of high quality with Zlaty Bazant being highly regarded. [[Hungary]], [[Poland]], and [[Slovenia]] all have very good national examples sometimes on a par with those from the Czech lands. [[Germany]], [[Austria]] and [[Switzerland]] have a similar brewing heritage, but can throw in several different types of beer. Weissbier, (Wheat Beer) is a refreshing style popular in summer but drunk year round. There are a huge amount of varieties and local specialties are nearly always worth seeking out. Generally, the further north one travels in Germany, the more bitter or hoppy the beer becomes adding to the north-south cultural divide. [[Bavaria]], "the Holy Grail of Brewing", located in southern Germany, has over 600 breweries alone and even more accompanying beers to sample! * '''[[Wine]]''' – The region produces a wide range of wines from superb world famous regions, down to inexpensive local plonk. Possibly the finest region in the area is the [[Tokaj-Hegyalja]] region shared between [[Hungary]] and [[Slovakia]] that is world-renowned for its sweet dessert wines as well as more standard whites. Germany has several wine regions; the [[Rhine]] and Moselle Valleys are well known for their fragrant white wines. Saxony in the east is home to a small wine-growing region on the riverbanks of the Elbe. Austria and Switzerland also produce some very high quality products. In the other countries like Slovenia, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, local wines can throw up some very good varieties and it is always worth investigating local produce. * Each country has a range of '''[[distilled beverages]]'''. Plain and seasoned '''vodka''' is popular in the Slavic countries. ''Pálinka'', brandy often made from apricots, and ''slivovitz'', a plum liquor or liqueur, are also popular. The quality of Polish vodka is among the best in the world. The high quality product can be very different to the industrial stuff you may buy in your local shop and is well worth a try. Zubrowka is a variety of vodka flavoured with a cinnamon-like grass and is delicious when combined with apple juice. Some claim it to be so good it produces no hangover, but you might not want to test that. ===Nightlife=== [[Berlin]] has a famous avant-garde [[nightlife]] scene known for electronic music, LGBT clubs and concerts. [[Prague]], [[Munich]] and [[Budapest]] are also known for nightlife. ==Stay safe== The western part of this region is probably one of the safest in the world with violent [[crime]] being rare in Germany, Poland, Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. While the situation in some parts of countries that used to be east of the iron curtain is by no means bad, certain neighbourhood in the bigger cities do have the typical big-city issues and also some crime arising from it. As in most of Europe, [[pickpocketing]] is a main risk factor for visitors. Unfortunately, racism is an issue to varying degrees in all of these countries, might it be harsher against immigrants, than tourists and business travellers. Antiziganism (hatred towards and discrimination against Sinti and Roma "gypsies") is particularly common in parts of the area with large Sinti and Roma populations but can be found in most of Central Europe to saddening degrees. Political rallies by extremist groups can get violent, as can bigger left-wing counter-demonstrations. Natural forces in Central Europe are rarely dangerous. Winter comes with [[cold weather]] and associated risks (see [[snow safety]] and [[ice safety]]), in particular in the Alps and other highlands. At summer, [[pests]] such as wasps, mosquitoes and ticks can be a nuisance. ==Respect== Despite the tendency by many around the world to refer to all countries formerly behind the Iron Curtain as "Eastern Europe", inhabitants of Central Europe will be much more happy if you describe their countries as "Central European" both geographically and culturally. Remember that Austrians, Liechtensteiners and most Swiss and Luxembourgers ''speak'' German but are not German! Czech, Polish and Slovakian are related to Russian, but inhabitants of these countries will not take kindly to assumptions of cultural overlap. Lastly, keep in mind that the Czech Republic and Slovakia once shared a country as well and Slovaks in general are very proud of their newfound independence, which will show especially if there is an opportunity to beat the Czech at soccer or ice hockey. Performing a Nazi salute is a criminal offence in Germany, Austria, Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The penalty is typically a fine; however, in Germany and Austria, any person caught performing a Nazi salute can be imprisoned too. In Switzerland, use of the salute is not a criminal offence in itself, but doing so for the purpose of actively promoting Nazi ideology is considered to constitute hate speech, which is. Displaying the Swastika is also a criminal offence, though in Germany, exceptions are made for religious Swastikas. ==Go next== {{isPartOf|Europe}} {{outlineregion}} {{geo|50.2|13.7|zoom=6}} amki5ktt980h9ihb5ayhjvdh7c4egpw 0 6979 5288923 5272755 2026-06-06T17:41:57Z AlasdairW 1812 /* Budget */ Deleted listing for YMCA - no longer has letting rooms on website 5288923 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Cheltenham banner Neptune Fountain.jpg|caption=Detail of the Neptune Fountain}} '''Cheltenham''' is an historic spa town in [[England]], which started its development in the early 1700s with the discovery of healing waters. It became very popular after the visit of King George III in 1788, and developed further. You cannot take the waters in Cheltenham, but you can visit the Pump Room to get a feeling for the ambience. ==Understand== [[Image:Cheltenham.from.leckhampton.arp.jpg|300px|thumb|Cheltenham]] [[Image:GCHQ-aerial.jpg|300px|thumb|GCHQ doughnut]] Cheltenham (pronounced ''Cheltnum'') is now probably most famous for the Gold Cup horse race which takes place in mid-March every year. You'll need to book early to find a room, possibly as early as the previous year. Many people accept rooms anywhere within about a {{mi|50}} radius. It's also famous for housing the top-secret Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) responsible for signals intelligence (SIGINT) for UKUSA by Britain's best computer scientists and mathematicians, in its doughnut-shaped building (designed that way for security reasons). * [http://www.visitcheltenham.com/ Visit Cheltenham] website ==Get in== ===By train=== {{seealso|Rail travel in Great Britain}} {{go | name=Cheltenham Spa station | alt= | url=http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations_destinations/CNM.aspx | email= | address=Queens Road, GL51 8NP | lat=51.897 | long=-2.1 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1845519 | content=A little outside the metropolitan area and has frequent rail links to [[London Paddington]], [[Bristol]] and the south and [[Birmingham (England)|Birmingham]] and the north.}} *'''Golden Valley line''': London Paddington → [[Reading (England)|Reading]] → [[Didcot]] Parkway → [[Swindon]] → [[Kemble]] → [[Stroud]] → Stonehouse → [[Gloucester (England)|Gloucester]] (reverses at Gloucester) → Cheltenham Spa. *'''Cross Country Route''': Bristol Temple Meads → Bristol Parkway → Cheltenham Spa → [[Worcester (England)|Worcester]] Parkway → Birmingham New Street → [[Tamworth (England)|Tamworth]] → [[Burton on Trent]] → [[Derby]] → [[Chesterfield]] → [[Sheffield]] → [[Wakefield (England)|Wakefield]] Westgate → [[Leeds]] → [[York]]. There's a regular bus service (D or E) to the town centre from Cheltenham Spa station: '''[https://tiscon-maps-stagecoachbus.s3.amazonaws.com/Timetables/West/Temp/2/DE.pdf Stagecoach (D or E)]''': Hatherley → Warden Hill → Rail Station → Town Centre → Racecourse → Bishop's Cleeve → Woodmancote There is an easy walk through Montpellier into the centre (15–20 minutes). An alternative off-road walking route is [http://www.cheltenham.gov.uk/info/200073/parks_and_open_spaces/547/honeybourne_line The Honeybourne Line]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} but there have been muggings at night. It's too far to walk if mobility is an issue, so take a taxi. ===By car=== The M5 reaches Cheltenham from the north and south and the A40 from the East (from Oxford) is also a useful transport link. Parking is rarely a problem now in Cheltenham, but the one way systems can sometimes get a little confusing. With this in mind a good option would be to use the Park and Ride facility [http://www.parkandride.net/cheltenham/cheltenham_frameset.shtml National Park and Ride Directory]. If you're planning a day at the races, Cheltenham, has its own [http://www.parkandride.net/cheltenham/cheltenham_frameset.shtml Racecourse Park and Ride] facility. ===By bus=== ====Inside of Gloucestershire==== There are buses from [[Cirencester]], [[Stroud]] and other local villages to Cheltenham once an hour. Several bus services go to Cheltenham from Gloucester. The most direct, comfortable and convenient of these is the [https://www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/west/stagecoach-gold-94 94 (Stagecoach Gold)] bus, which as of March 2018 now operates 24 hours a day (except on Sundays). Less frequent bus services go to and from Tewkesbury, such as the 41 and 42. ====Outside of Gloucestershire==== Many national long-distance buses stop at the {{marker|type=go|name=Royal Well bus station|url=|lat=51.899624|long=-2.078241}} (behind The Promenade) including the Stagecoach S2 bus service and the National Express bus. The S2 bus travels from [[Oxford]] to Cheltenham several times a day. A single ticket from Cheltenham to Oxford is usually £8.00, but day-return tickets are also available: * '''[https://www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/west/oxford-to-cheltenham-bus S2 (Stagecoach)]''' [[Oxford]] → Cassington (A40) → [[Witney]] → Curbridge → [[Burford]] → Northleach → Andoversford → Charlton Kings → Cheltenham The National Express has connections to London Heathrow (and beyond). However it's not possible to buy a ticket at the station outside of office-hours, so buy online or by telephone. ===By plane=== Nearby Staverton hosts {{marker|type=go|name=Gloucestershire Airport|url=https://www.gloucestershireairport.co.uk/|lat=51.893737|long=-2.164502}} ({{IATA|GLO}}), which has regular flights to [[Jersey]]. There are also many private aircraft there, which can be chartered. [https://birminghamairport.co.uk Birmingham Airport] ({{IATA|BHX}}) and [https://www.bristolairport.co.uk/ Bristol Airport] ({{IATA|BRS}}) are each only a couple of hours drive (north and south respectively) and offer a wide range of destinations inside and outside of Europe. It can take several hours to drive to the London airports ([[Heathrow]] ({{IATA|LHR}}), [[Gatwick]] ({{IATA|LGW}}), [https://www.london-luton.co.uk/ Luton] ({{IATA|LTN}}) and [[Stansted]] ({{IATA|STN}})). ==Get around== {{Mapframe|51.9000|-2.0726|zoom=12}} ===By car=== Cheltenham is relatively easy to get around by car. Tourists should be aware of the one-way system when driving in the town centre, although there are plans to possibly alter this under the Cheltenham Transport Plan. Most parking in the town is paid and is run by [https://www.ncp.co.uk/ NCP] or the [https://www.cheltenham.gov.uk/directory/1/car_parks town council]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. * {{go | name=St George's Road car park | alt= | url=https://www.cheltenham.gov.uk/directory_record/55335/st_georges_road | email= | address=St George's Rd, GL50 3DT | lat=51.89892 | long=-2.08179 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 8AM-8PM including bank/public holidays, Su 10AM-8PM | price=Up to 1 hour: £1.40, Up to 2 hours: £2.60, Up to 3 hours: £3.60, Up to 4 hours: £4, Up to 6 hours: £7.50, More than 6 hours: £10 | lastedit=2018-01-04 | content= }} * {{go | name=Portland Gate car park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Portland Gates, GL50 4DW | lat=51.90353 | long=-2.0723 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours | price=Up to 1 hour: £1.50, Up to 2 hours: £2.50, Up to 3 hours: £3.50, Up to 4 hours: £4.50, Up to 6 hours: £7.50, Up to 24 hours: £10.50 | lastedit=2018-01-05 | content= }} ===By taxi=== Taxis are fairly reliable. If you flag a taxi down or get one from the taxi rank you will be charged from the meter, whereas if you book with a taxi company you will be charged considerably less. Most locals use taxis at night as far as the surrounding villages as night-buses are few (apart from a regular link to Gloucester). At night, taxis wait along The Promenade (it can be very busy at pub-closing times). Uber "Local Cab" is available. ===By bus=== The main bus company is [https://www.stagecoachbus.com/ Stagecoach] which operates a number of buses around the town, mainly on routes with letters rather than numbers. The D bus goes from the station through the town centre to the racecourse and on to Bishop's Cleeve. A single from the town centre to the station costs £2.30, and a day ticket for all the Stagecoach services within Cheltenham (Dayrider) costs £4.00. {{listing | name=The Honeybourne Line | alt= | url=https://www.cheltenham.gov.uk/info/33/parks_and_open_spaces/547/honeybourne_line | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-10-27 | content=The Honeybourne Line is a [[walking]] and [[cycling]] path that runs from Cheltenham railway station and Queens Road to Tommy Taylors Lane, Pittville Park and Wymans Brook as well as branching off towards the town centre following the river Chelt. It's an ideal way to walk or ride between the town centre and the railway station avoiding main roads. When heading into town (walking away from the train station) use the right-hand side tunnel to head for the town centre or use the left-hand side tunnel to head to the racecourse. }} ==See== [[Image:Cheltenham - geograph.org.uk - 226850.jpg|300px|thumb|The Promenade, Cheltenham]] *{{see | name=Promenade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.89840 | long=-2.07799 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The broad, tree-lined Promenade and its continuation into Montpellier Walk (look for the caryatids) and Montpellier Street, the town's smart shopping streets (the chain stores are mercifully elsewhere, in the High Street). Look out for the Neptune Fountain at the south end of the gardens in front of the council offices. }} * {{see | name=Imperial Gardens | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.89662 | long=-2.07880 | directions=off the Promenade | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Colourful display of summer flowers. }} * {{see | name=Pittville Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.91026 | long=-2.06775 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Swans in Pitville Park (4748).jpg | content=Laid out in the early 19th century as the centre of the then-new residential area of Pittville. The park is arranged round an artificial lake, with Pittville Pump Room on the hillside at the north-western edge. The Pump Room is open for free visits to see the fine interior and water tasting when it is not being used for events or weddings. }} * {{see | name=Cleeve Hill | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.93633 | long=-2.01977 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Cleeve Hill | image=Cleeve Hill.jpg | wikidata=Q4117384 | content=The highest point of the Cotswolds hill range and in the county of Gloucestershire, at 1,083 feet (330 m). It commands a clear view to the west, over Cheltenham and the racecourse, over the River Severn and into Wales; and to the north over Winchcombe. }} * {{see | name=The Wilson Art Gallery & Museum | alt= | url=http://www.cheltenhammuseum.org.uk/ | email= | address=Clarence St, GL50 3JT | lat=51.901322 | long=-2.077854 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 237431 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free | wikipedia=The Wilson (Cheltenham) | image=Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum on 21 March 2009.jpg | wikidata=Q5090184 | lastedit=2017-11-06 | content=The museum re-opened in 2013 after a £6.3-million project to expand the building including additional galleries, a performance space, larger cafe and shop and a new home for the Cheltenham Tourist Information Centre. The collection of furniture and other pieces by Cotswold-based Arts and Crafts Movement craftsmen such as Ernest Gimson and Edward Barnsley is particularly good. }} * {{see | name=Holst Birthplace Museum | alt= | url=http://www.holstmuseum.org.uk/ | email= | address= 4 Clarence Rd, GL52 2AY | lat=51.90399 | long=-2.07048 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=£4.50 | content=The Regency terrace house where Gustav Holst, composer of ''The Planets'' was born in 1874. Interesting both for the building and for the musical history. }} * {{see | name=Crickley Hill and Barrow Wake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.84514 | long=-2.10490 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Crickley Hill and Barrow Wake | image=View from Barrow Wake towards Crickley Hill - geograph.org.uk - 986696.jpg | wikidata=Q5185078 | content=The country park is a site of nature conservation, geological & archaeological interest. }} * {{see | name=Leckhampton Hill | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.86459 | long=-2.07513 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Leckhampton Hill and Charlton Kings Common | wikidata=Q6511775 | content=A site of Iron Age hill fort and long barrow and famous for its old limestone quarries. One particularly striking feature on the hill is the Devil's Chimney, a substantial pillar of stone left standing next to one of the upper inclines. }} *{{see | name=St. Mary's Church | alt= | url=https://www.stmatthewsandtheminster.org/ | email= | address=Clarence St, GL50 3PL | lat=51.90141 | long=-2.07649 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 519520 | tollfree= | hours=Visit M-F 11AM-3PM, Sa 10AM-noon; service Su 11AM | price= | wikipedia=Cheltenham Minster, St Mary's | image=St. Mary's Church, Cheltenham.jpeg | wikidata=Q5090216 | content=Dating to medieval times, it has been in continuous use for 850 years. In 2013 it became Cheltenham Minster. }} ===Further afield=== * {{see | name=Chedworth Roman Villa | alt= | url=https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chedworth-roman-villa/ | email=chedworth@nationaltrust.org.uk | address=[[Chedworth]], GL54 3LJ | lat=51.819401 | long=-1.92295 | directions=A half hour walk from the village centre, go from the pub past the church and up the valley. | phone=+44 1242 890256 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Adult £9.50, child (over 5) £4.75, family £23.80 | wikipedia=Chedworth Roman Villa | image=Chedworth Roman Villa 2012 - View from northeast.jpg | wikidata=Q5089233 | content=One of the largest Roman villas in the UK. }} * {{see | name=Hailes Abbey | alt= | url=https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/hailes-abbey/ | email= | address=Hailes, Nr [[Winchcombe]], GL54 5PB | lat=51.969022 | long=-1.928841 | directions=11 miles northeast of Cheltenham | phone=+44 1242 602398 | tollfree= | hours= | price=adults £4.40, children £2.60, concessions £4.00 | wikidata=Q1478728 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sudeley Castle | alt= | url=http://www.sudeleycastle.co.uk/ | email=enquiries@sudeley.org.uk | address=[[Winchcombe]], GL54 5JD | lat=51.94737 | long=-1.956387 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 602308 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sudeley Castle | image=Sudeley Castle view from garden Oct07.jpg | wikidata=Q631473 | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content=Historic castle, notable for being amongst other things the final resting place of Henry VIII's sixth wife, Catherine Parr, who is buried in the chapel. }} ==Do== [[Image:Pittville Pump Room.JPG|300px|thumb|Pittvile Pump Room]] * {{do | name=Pittville Pump Room | alt= | url=https://pittvillepumproom.org.uk/ | email= | address=East Approach Drive, GL52 3JE | lat=51.9121 | long=-2.0673 | directions=10-min walk north of High St | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Pittville Pump Room | wikidata=Q7199523 | content=Test the waters (and go to concerts) at the Pittville Pump Room. }} * '''Go to the races at''' {{do | name=Cheltenham Racecourse | alt= | url=http://cheltenham.thejockeyclub.co.uk/ | email= | address=Evesham Rd GL50 4SH | lat=51.9203 | long=-2.05778 | directions=A mile north of town on A435 | phone=+44 1242 513014 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-19 | wikipedia=Cheltenham Racecourse | wikidata=Q5090224 | content=But only in winter, as (unusually) it's only a jumps-racing course, with frequent fixtures from October-March. The big event is the Cheltenham Gold Cup, held in mid-March. }} * {{do | name=Cheltenham Town FC | alt= | url=https://www.ctfc.com/ | email= | address=Whaddon Rd, GL52 5NA | lat=51.9062 | long=-2.0602 | directions=a mile northeast of town centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Cheltenham Town F.C. | wikidata=Q48932 | lastedit=2024-05-26 | content="The Robins" were relegated in 2024 and now play soccer in League Two, the fourth tier. Their home ground is Whaddon Road (sponsored as Jonny-Rocks Stadium), capacity 7000. }} * {{do | name=[[swimming|Swim]] at Sandford Parks Lido | alt= | url=http://www.sandfordparkslido.org.uk/ | email= | address= | lat=51.89363 | long=-2.07018 | directions=set in landscaped gardens next to Sandford Park | phone= | tollfree= | hours=May - Oct, hours vary | price= | wikipedia=Sandford Parks Lido | wikidata=Q7416213 | lastedit=2017-09-13 | content=The Lido has a 50-m outdoor, main swimming pool (with reserved lanes), a children's outdoor pool, and a paddling pool. All the pools are heated to over 70°F (21°C). Café with value hot food. }} * {{do | name=Cineworld Cinema | alt= | url=https://www.cineworld.co.uk/cinemas/cheltenham | email= | address=The Brewery, St Margaret's Road, GL50 4EF | lat=51.90307 | long=-2.07607 | directions=Just off the High St, behind Tesco | phone=+44 871 220 8000 (premium rate from mobiles and many non-BT landlines) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The new cinema that put the Odeon out of business. Decent screens, decent sound, comfy seats, and expensive popcorn. }} ===Events=== Cheltenham is known for its events. The Cheltenham Gold Cup and Cheltenham Literature Festival are internationally recognised and draw thousands of people each year. * {{event | name=Gold Cup horse racing | alt= | url=https://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham/events-tickets/the-festival/gold-cup-day/ | email= | date= | month=March | year=2025 | enddate= | address=Cheltenham Racecourse, GL50 4SH | lat=51.9203 | long=-2.05778 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Cheltenham Gold Cup | wikidata=Q11317814 | content=Every March. }} * {{event | name=International Jazz Festival | alt= | url=http://www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazz/ | email= | date=1 | month=May | year=2024 | enddate= 6 | address= | lat=51.89 | long=-2.078 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=first week of May | price= | wikipedia=Cheltenham Jazz Festival | wikidata=Q5090211 | content= }} * {{event | name=Cheltenham Science Festival | alt= | url=http://www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/science | email= | date=4 | month=June | year=2024 | enddate= 9 | address=Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA | lat=51.89710637164462 | long=-2.0777875023148655 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=early June | price= | wikipedia=Cheltenham Science Festival | wikidata=Q5090228 | content= }} * {{event | name=Cheltenham International Festival of Music | alt= | url=http://www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/music | email= | date=6 | month=July | year=2024 | enddate= 13 | address= | lat=51.89 | long=-2.078 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Cheltenham Music Festival | wikidata=Q5090219 | content=Music festival and a fringe festival on the same dates. }} * {{event | name=Cheltenham Cricket Festival | alt= | url=https://www.gloscricket.co.uk/ | email= | address=Thirlestaine Rd, GL53 7AD | lat=51.889849 | long=-2.072691 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Starts late July or early August | price= | content= }} * {{event | name=Cheltenham Literature Festival | alt= | url=http://www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/literature/ | email= | address=Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA | lat=51.89 | long=-2.078 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | date=4 | month=October | year=2024 | enddate=13 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Cheltenham Literature Festival | wikidata=Q5090213 | content=Every October. }} * {{event | name=Wychwood Festival of Music | alt= | url=http://www.wychwoodfestival.com/ | email= | date=31 | month=May | year=2024 | enddate= 2 | endmonth=June | address= | lat=51.92418702991774 | long=-2.051831332065088 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=May | price= | wikipedia=Wychwood Festival | image=Bill Bailey - CREDIT - Steve Porter.jpg | wikidata=Q8039571 | content= }} ===Theatre=== [[Image:The Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham - geograph.org.uk - 888080.jpg|300px|thumb|The Everyman Theatre]] Cheltenham has several theatres which host a variety of productions. * {{do | name=Bacon Theatre | alt= | url=http://www.bacontheatre.co.uk/ | email= | address=Dean Close School, Shelburne Rd, GL51 6HE | lat=51.892544 | long=-2.10621 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 258002 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=The Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham | wikidata=Q7715263 | lastedit=2016-10-24 | content= }} * {{do | name=Everyman Theatre | alt= | url=https://www.everymantheatre.org.uk/ | email=admin@everymantheatre.org.uk | address=Regent Street, GL50 1HQ | lat=51.89969 | long=-2.075164 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 572573 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham | wikidata=Q5417854 | lastedit=2016-10-24 | content=Cheltenham's oldest theatre, it has been serving the town since 1891. It has had an expensive refurbishment and still produces to top-class, West-End productions. Tickets are available from the box office by phone or online. }} * {{do | name=Playhouse Theatre | alt= | url=http://www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk/ | email= | address=47-53 Bath Road, GL53 7HG | lat=51.896738 | long=-2.074061 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 522852 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=The Playhouse, Cheltenham | wikidata=Q7757456 | lastedit=2016-10-24 | content=The town's community-run theatre since 1945. The people of Cheltenham have enjoyed the notable facility of their own theatre, in which talented amateurs from all walks of life can work together with a single purpose; the presentation of nonprofessional drama of exceptionally high standards to the theatre-going public. }} * {{do | name=Town Hall | alt= | url=http://www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk/ | email=boxoffice@cheltenhamtrust.org.uk | address=Imperial Square, GL50 1QA | lat=51.897076 | long=-2.077784 | directions= | phone=+44 844 5762210 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-5:30PM | price= | wikipedia=Cheltenham Town Hall | wikidata=Q5090236 | lastedit=2016-10-24 | content=Cheltenham's magnificent town hall also hosts the odd production along with being used as venue for events. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Gloucestershire College | alt=formerly Gloscat | url=https://www.gloscol.ac.uk/about-us-and-jobs-at-gc/campuses-and-contacts/cheltenham/ | email=info@gloscol.ac.uk | address=Princess Elizabeth Way, GL51 7SJ | lat=51.901564 | long=-2.11795 | directions= | phone=+44 345 155 2020 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Gloucestershire College | wikidata=Q5572096 | lastedit=2018-01-16 | content=Cheltenham's campus is small, but there are plenty of courses that can be taken. There are other campuses in Gloucester and Coleford in the Forest of Dean. }} * {{listing | name=University of Gloucestershire | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Park, GL50 2RH | lat=51.900013 | long=-2.07975 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 714700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=University of Gloucestershire | wikidata=Q1816872 | lastedit=2018-01-16 | content= }} ==Buy== {{infobox|The Wishing Fish Clock|[[File:Wishing Fish Clock Cheltenham 11.jpg|thumb|The Wishing Fish Clock by Kit Williams]] The clock in Regent Arcade was designed by the artist Kit Williams and at 45 ft (13.7 m), it's thought to be the world's tallest mechanical clock. On the hour, in a Rube Goldberg machine-style fashion the duck lays an egg which drops down and the music "I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles" plays as the fish rotates horizontally and releases bubbles from its mouth. If you catch a bubble, you can make a wish!}} Cheltenham is a popular shopping destination in the region. Both Promenade Street in the centre and Montpellier have many high-end shops; including the House of Fraser department store. The High Street and Lower High Street are where you find all the usual chain stores. There is also the Regent Arcade shopping centre. * {{buy | name=Regent Arcade | alt= | url=http://www.regentarcade.co.uk/ | email= | address=High Street, GL50 1JZ | lat=51.899243 | long=-2.074833 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 521345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Not extremely exciting, but quite a few chain shops on two levels. Its biggest attraction is the Wishing Fish Clock which blows bubbles every hour. }} * {{buy | name=John Lewis | alt= | url=https://www.johnlewis.com/our-shops/cheltenham | email= | address=123 High St, GL50 1DQ | lat=51.900121 | long=-2.071821 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 544000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-W F Sa 9AM-6PM, Th 8AM-7PM, Su 11AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2018-11-13 | content=A large department store. }} * {{buy | name=Marks & Spencer | alt= | url=https://www.marksandspencer.com/MSStoreDetailsView?storeId=10151&langId=-24&SAPStoreId=2121 | email= | address=173 High Street, GL50 1DF | lat=51.899890 | long=-2.073499 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 521531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A fairly large branch of the British chain store, with a large food hall and clothing section. }} Outside of the town centre itself consists of several retail parks with free parking that should fulfil most of a shopper's needs. * {{buy | name=Gallagher Retail Park | alt= | url=http://www.gallaghershopping.co.uk/ | email= | address=Tewkesbury Road, GL51 9RR | lat=51.917876 | long=-2.104633 | directions= | phone=+44 8081 565533 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-01-05 | content=Retail park consisting primarily of large Sainsbury's supermarket with gas station, Argos and a café, Next and Sports Direct for clothes shopping and Boots for pharmaceuticals or toiletries. Along with Costa Coffee and Subway. }} * {{buy | name=Kingsditch Retail Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kingsditch Ln, GL51 9PX | lat=51.914335 | long=-2.098646 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-01-05 | content=Retail park consisting primarily of a Marks & Spencer: Simply Food and Home stores. There are also McDonald's and KFC restaurants nearby. }} * {{buy | name=Gateway Retail Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.914042 | long=-2.100533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-01-05 | content=Retail park with a Currys/PC World and Smyth's for electronics and toys respectively. There is also a small store called Hillary's that does blinds and shutters. }} If you are travelling into or out from Cheltenham on the A40, it's worth taking a look at the Dunkerton's cider shop near Charlton Kings. It is the latest business venture of Julian Dunkerton, founder of Superdry. If cider isn't your fancy, there is also the Battledown Brewery and Sibling Distillery nearby. * {{buy | name=Dunkertons Cider Shop & Bar | alt= | url=https://www.dunkertonscider.co.uk/ | email= | address=Dowdeswell Park, London Rd, GL52 6UT | lat=51.877913 | long=-2.028013 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 650147 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2021-01-05 | content=Has a wide range of ciders and other high-end foods including cheeses and condiments. }} * {{buy | name=Cheltenham Farmers Market | alt= | url=https://www.cotswoldmarkets.com/cheltenham-farmers-2 | email= | address= | lat=51.90005 | long=-2.07614 | directions=held on The Promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=second and last Friday of the month | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-12 | content= }} ==Eat== ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Pittville Gates | alt= | url= | email= | address=Prestbury Road | lat=51.90413 | long=-2.06975 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-19 | content=Old historical gates located on the edge of Pittville Park with a row of popular fast-food rather than one single restaurant. Very handy for walking back to the town from the racecourse. Pizza, kebab, burgers, Chinese, Indian and British all available. }} * {{eat | name=The Moon Under Water | alt= | url=https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/pubs/the-moon-under-water-cheltenham | email= | address=16-28 Bath Rd, GL53 7HA | lat=51.8974 | long=-2.07235 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 583945 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Large Wetherspoon's pub with reasonable food for around £7. This is a large and characterless place, but it does have a nice outdoor area at the rear overlooking Sandford Park. }} * {{eat | name=The Bank House | alt= | url=http://www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk/home/pubs/the-bank-house | email= | address=15-21 Clarence St, GL50 3JL | lat=51.90094 | long=-2.07590 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 240940 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another Wetherspoon's pub more centrally situated. }} * {{eat | name=Simpson's Fish & Chips | alt= | url=http://simpsonsfishandchips.com/shops/cheltenham/ | email= | address=75 Priors Rd, GL52 5AL | lat=51.903195 | long=-2.04999 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 521964 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-06 | content=Winner of the UK's Number 1 Fish & Chip Takeaway 2016 award. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=The Brewery | alt= | url=http://www.thebreweryquarter.com/ | email= | address= | lat=51.90331 | long=-2.07606 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 574378 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An entertainment/eating complex located behind the Lower High Street. Here you will find a selection of rather boring international chain restaurants including Nando's, Prezzo, Frankie & Benny's and Real China. Parking available (paid). Great if you like eating on industrial-estates. }} * {{eat | name=The Langton | alt= | url=https://www.thelangton.co.uk/ | email= | address=189-191 London Road, GL52 6HT | lat=51.889449 | long=-2.056552 | directions=on London Road in Charlton Kings | phone=+44 1242 233022 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-28 | content=Offers some nice (if slightly pricey) bar food in a Regency-style building, and a good Sunday lunch. }} * {{eat | name=Storyteller | alt= | url=http://www.storyteller.co.uk/ | email=post@storyteller.co.uk | address=11 North Place, GL50 4DW | lat=51.90276 | long=-2.07300 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 250343 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Reasonably posh and nice. Very popular. }} * {{eat | name=Zizzi's | alt= | url=https://www.zizzi.co.uk/italian/restaurants/cheltenham/sufflok-square | email= | address=St James Church, 3 Suffolk Square, GL50 2DR | lat=51.892981 | long=-2.08015 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 252493 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=noon-10PM | price= | lastedit=2016-10-06 | content=Wonderful converted 19th century church [http://churchdb.gukutils.org.uk/GLS115.php], elegantly decorated with good Italian food and wine. Family/baby-friendly in the daytime. }} ===Splurge=== *{{eat | name=Le Champignon Sauvage | alt= | url=http://www.lechampignonsauvage.co.uk/ | email= | address=24-28 Suffolk Rd, GL50 2AQ | lat=51.891 | long=-2.08 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 573449 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Be punctual. Entry Tu-Sa 12:30PM-1:15PM (last order: 1:30PM) & 7:30PM-8:30PM (last order: 8:45PM) | price=À la carte lunch or dinner 2 courses: £48, 3 courses: £59, four courses (with cheese and dessert): £69. Set dinner menu: Tu-F two courses £26, 3 courses £32 | wikipedia=Le Champignon Sauvage | wikidata=Q6506674 | content=Cheltenham's only Michelin starred restaurant (two stars); 4 AA rosettes; Good Food Guide, 2014 Chef of the Year (David Everitt-Matthias) & Decanter Restaurant of the Year. You are not to use your mobile phone in the dining room and gentlemen are to sit down when they use the lavatory. }} * {{eat | name=Lumière | alt= | url=http://www.lumiere.cc/ | email=info@lumiere.cc | address=Clarence Parade, GL50 3PA | lat=51.900381 | long=-2.077282 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 222200 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-28 | content=Has a good reputation. }} * {{eat | name=The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie | alt=The Ivy | url=https://ivycollection.com/ | email= | address=Rotunda Terrace, Montpellier St, GL50 1SH | lat=51.89504 | long=-2.0827 | directions=nearest station is Cheltenham Spa | phone=+44 1242 894 200 | tollfree= | hours=11:30AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2021-10-27 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Frogmill | alt= | url=https://www.thefrogmill.co.uk/menus/drinks/ | email=info@thefrogmill.co.uk | address=A436, Shipton Oliffe, Andoversford, GL54 4HT | lat=51.863406 | long=-1.964295 | directions=7 miles (11 km) east of town centre | phone=+44 1242 386364 | tollfree= | hours=M–F 7AM–11PM, Sa Su 8AM-11PM, closes midnight F Sa | price= | lastedit=2020-03-04 | content=A luxurious country pub with 28 bespoke bedrooms, rolling landscapes and seasonal dining. }} * {{drink | name=The Retreat | alt= | url=http://www.theretreatwinebar.co.uk/ | email=retreatcheltenham@hotmail.com | address=10-11 Suffolk Parade, GL50 2AB | lat=51.892911 | long=-2.079822 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 235436 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-28 | content=Established wine bar in Montpellier, located on Suffolk Parade. Worth finding to enjoy the "posh" side of Cheltenham. Popular with Cheltenham College on Friday/Saturday when it can be very busy. Ask the locals for other lesser known restaurants and bars nearby. Montpellier is not easy to explore without local knowledge. }} * {{drink | name=Sandford Park Ale House | alt= | url=http://sandfordparkalehouse.co.uk/ | email=spalehouse@gmail.com | address=20 High St, GL50 1DZ | lat=51.896815 | long=-2.069983 | directions=Head east along the High St until just out of the shopping area | phone=+44 1242 574517 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-06-11 | content=A slightly out-of-the-ordinary bar that takes real ale very seriously offering lots of variety. Also sells lager, cider and food. Large rear garden for drinking in }} * {{drink | name=Shakes2Go | alt= | url= | email= | address=9 Grosvenor St, GL52 2SQ | lat=51.898154 | long=-2.070934 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2015-03-29 | content=A wide array of ice cream shakes made from delicious and not so delicious ingredients. }} * {{drink | name=The Swan | alt= | url=http://www.theswancheltenham.co.uk/ | email= | address=35-37 High Street, GL50 1DX | lat=51.897582 | long=-2.070558 | directions=located on The Strand (which connects to The High St) | phone=+44 1242 243726 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-28 | content=A popular bar with frequent entertainment and has a large heated outdoor area for smokers. Serves both local and known-brand drinks. }} The only large nightclubs in town are V (formerly ''Moda'') and Moomoo (formerly ''Blush''), nothing unique but both enjoyable. Popular mainly with students. * {{drink | name=Moomoo | alt=formerly Blush | url=https://www.moomooclubrooms.co.uk/cheltenham | email= | address=1 Regent Street, GL50 1HA | lat=51.900207 | long=-2.074726 | directions= | phone=+44 7584 252188 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-08-09 | content= }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Bentons Guest House | alt= | url=http://bentons-guest-house.hotel-in-cheltenham.co.uk/en/ | email= | address=71 Bath Rd, GL52 6YG | lat=51.895860 | long=-2.075073 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 517417 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=£35 pppn | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Cross Ways Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.crosswaysguesthouse.com/ | email=book@crosswaysguesthouse.com | address=57 Bath Rd, GL53 7LH | lat=51.895355 | long=-2.075477 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 527683 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single £45 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express | alt= | url=http://www.hiexcheltenham.com/ | email=reservations@hiexcheltenham.com | address=Dunalley St, GL50 4AP | lat=51.904559 | long=-2.076545 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 548200 | tollfree= | fax=+44 1242 548201 | price=£60 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Located in the centre of the town; many amenities are within easy walking distance. }} * {{sleep | name=Charlton Boutique Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecharlton.co.uk/ | email=enquiries@thecharlton.co.uk | address=London Rd, GL52 6UU | lat=51.881246 | long=-2.037057 | directions=on the A40 towards Oxford, just out of town centre | phone=+44 1242 651051 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content=Located right on the east side of town, making it easy to get to from Oxford or London. }} * {{sleep | name=Beaumont House | alt= | url=https://willowboutiquehotels.com/ | email= | address=56 Shurdington Rd GL53 0JE | lat=51.885 | long=-2.085 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 223311 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £80 | lastedit=2020-08-17 | content=Smart stylish B&B in a Victorian villa. No dogs. }} * {{sleep | name=The Wheatsheaf | alt= | url= | email= | address=283 Old Bath Rd GL53 9AJ | lat=51.877 | long=-2.073 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 525371 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2021-05-30 | content=17th-century coaching inn with good restaurant and rooms. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Ellensborough Park | alt= | url=http://www.ellenboroughpark.com/ | email= | address=Southam Rd, GL52 3NJ | lat=51.9267 | long=-2.04167 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 545454 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=£150-200 | wikipedia=Ellenborough Park Hotel | image=Southam House, Southam, Glos..jpg | wikidata=Q13529108 | lastedit=2016-10-28 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Du Vin | alt= | url=https://www.hotelduvin.com/locations/cheltenham/ | email=info.cheltenham@hotelduvin.com | address=Parabola Rd, GL50 3AH | lat=51.898323 | long=-2.082682 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 370584 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=£85-100 | lastedit=2016-10-28 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Malmaison | alt=formerly The Montpellier Chapter | url=https://www.malmaison.com/locations/cheltenham/ | email= | address=Bayshill Rd, GL50 3AS | lat=51.896038 | long=-2.08406 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 370655 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=£85-100 | lastedit=2016-10-28 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The George Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.culthotels.com/ | email= | address=St George’s Rd, GL50 3DZ | lat=51.899199 | long=-2.081609 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 235751 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=£80-125 | lastedit=2020-06-11 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Queens, Montpellier | alt= | url=http://www.queenshotelcheltenham.co.uk/ | email=H6632@accor.com | address=The Promenade, GL50 1NN | lat=51.896354 | long=-2.08023 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 514754 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=No 38 The Park | alt= | url=https://www.no38thepark.com/ | email= | address=38 Evesham Rd, GL52 2AH | lat=51.906007 | long=-2.070435 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 822929 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £200 | lastedit=2020-08-17 | content=Upscale hotel in Georgian townhouse, dog-friendly. }} * {{sleep | name=No 131 | alt= | url=https://www.no131.com/ | email= | address=131 Promenade GL50 1NW | lat=51.897093 | long=-2.08018 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 822939 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £180 | lastedit=2020-08-17 | content=Georgian villa got up in modern style, good dining. No dogs. }} * {{sleep | name=The Bradley | alt= | url=https://thebradleyhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=19 Royal Parade Mews, Bayshill Rd GL50 3AY | lat=51.897 | long=-2.082 | directions= | phone=+44 1242 519077 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £150 | lastedit=2020-08-17 | content=Elegant B&B in a Georgian town house. Dog-friendly, no children under 16. }} ==Stay safe== Cheltenham is mostly a safe town. The so-called "bad areas" though are Hester's Way to the west of the town centre and Whaddon to the north-east, these areas have large amounts of social housing and are unlikely to be of interest to visitors. == Connect == As of May 2022, Cheltenham has 4G with EE and Vodafone, and 5G with O2 and Three. ==Go next== [http://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poimap2.php?lat=51.8992&lon=-2.0739&zoom=10&layer=OD&lang=en&name=Cheltenham Map of places with Wikivoyage articles nearby] * [[Gloucester (England)|Gloucester]] is about {{mile|9}} west. * [[Tewkesbury]] is about 9 miles north. * [[Cotswolds]] villages of [[Bourton-on-the-Water]], [[Stow-on-the-Wold]] and [[Moreton-in-Marsh]] are about 10 miles (16 km) east. * [[Cirencester]], the 'capital of the Cotswolds' is a half hour drive to the south * [[Bristol]] is a longer day trip to the south. {{routebox | image1=UK-Motorway-M5.svg | imagesize1=50 | directionl1=SW | minorl1=[[Stroud]] | majorl1=[[Bristol]] | directionr1=N | 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[[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: *'''Paseo Yortuque''' - A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+T%C3%BAcume/@-6.5177378,-79.85028,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c90dee4663727:0xe482d2f57e476856!8m2!3d-6.5177431!4d-79.848086 Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center and '''Ripley''' in the city center. *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed so be careful. *Mercado Central *Plaza Aventura - conventional large shopping mall ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} 4wgcebtql5nfvpcpcbhehdbyvyuqv8i 5288965 5288964 2026-06-07T03:24:56Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* See */ Added entry Paseo de las Musas. 5288965 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: *'''Paseo Yortuque''' - A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. *'''Paseo de las Musas''' - This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+T%C3%BAcume/@-6.5177378,-79.85028,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c90dee4663727:0xe482d2f57e476856!8m2!3d-6.5177431!4d-79.848086 Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center and '''Ripley''' in the city center. *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed so be careful. *Mercado Central *Plaza Aventura - conventional large shopping mall ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} ht5kpivzba7cdxaigvrd7635lwvy412 5288966 5288965 2026-06-07T03:29:53Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* See */ Changed museum Tucume web URL to official museum website. 5288966 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: *'''Paseo Yortuque''' - A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. *'''Paseo de las Musas''' - This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-t%C3%BAcume Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center and '''Ripley''' in the city center. *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed so be careful. *Mercado Central *Plaza Aventura - conventional large shopping mall ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} mjcc75xwixkc9t4giwo2jy705ugutoi 5288971 5288966 2026-06-07T03:44:29Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* See */ Entry for St. Mary's c 5288971 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: *'''Paseo Yortuque''' - A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. *'''Paseo de las Musas''' - This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. *'''St. Mary's Cathedral''' - The cathedral in Neoclassical style is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo. Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Francis Prevost, was Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and regularly celebrated mass in the cathedral. A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-t%C3%BAcume Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center and '''Ripley''' in the city center. *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed so be careful. *Mercado Central *Plaza Aventura - conventional large shopping mall ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} 7nrirtlqgx0rp1lu3bwykfvndvpmonp 5288973 5288971 2026-06-07T03:56:05Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* Buy */ Improved buy section. 5288973 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: *'''Paseo Yortuque''' - A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. *'''Paseo de las Musas''' - This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. *'''St. Mary's Cathedral''' - The cathedral in Neoclassical style is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo. Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Francis Prevost, was Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and regularly celebrated mass in the cathedral. A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-t%C3%BAcume Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center *'''Ripley''' store in the city center *'''Plaza Aventura''' - conventional large shopping mall *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed, so be careful. *'''Mercado Central''' is smaller than the Mercado Modelo. ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} laop3hm61n41o6hty4747iy7n5t6oyc 5288974 5288973 2026-06-07T04:04:39Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* See */ Added listing for St. Mary's Cathedral 5288974 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: *'''Paseo Yortuque''' - A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. *'''Paseo de las Musas''' - This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. *'''St. Mary's Cathedral''' - The cathedral in Neoclassical style is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo. Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Francis Prevost, was Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and regularly celebrated mass in the cathedral. A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-t%C3%BAcume Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. * {{see | name=St. Mary's Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.7717 | long=-79.8376 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St._Mary%27s_Cathedral,_Chiclayo | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content= }} ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center *'''Ripley''' store in the city center *'''Plaza Aventura''' - conventional large shopping mall *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed, so be careful. *'''Mercado Central''' is smaller than the Mercado Modelo. ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} dri1fovf957zbmj3jfjtfbheobllcxg 5288975 5288974 2026-06-07T04:06:35Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* See */ Updated listing for St. Mary's Cathedral 5288975 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: *'''Paseo Yortuque''' - A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. *'''Paseo de las Musas''' - This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. *'''St. Mary's Cathedral''' - The cathedral in Neoclassical style is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo. Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Francis Prevost, was Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and regularly celebrated mass in the cathedral. A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-t%C3%BAcume Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. * {{see | name=St. Mary's Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.7717 | long=-79.8376 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St._Mary%27s_Cathedral,_Chiclayo | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=The cathedral in Neoclassical style is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo. Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Francis Prevost, was Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and regularly celebrated mass in the cathedral. }} ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center *'''Ripley''' store in the city center *'''Plaza Aventura''' - conventional large shopping mall *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed, so be careful. *'''Mercado Central''' is smaller than the Mercado Modelo. ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} 6158wg9pyhptscnpwm4fbqejy34gmfa 5288976 5288975 2026-06-07T04:07:51Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* See */ Moved cathedral entry. 5288976 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: *'''Paseo Yortuque''' - A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. *'''Paseo de las Musas''' - This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. * {{see | name=St. Mary's Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.7717 | long=-79.8376 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St._Mary%27s_Cathedral,_Chiclayo | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=The cathedral in Neoclassical style is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo. Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Francis Prevost, was Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and regularly celebrated mass in the cathedral. }} A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-t%C3%BAcume Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center *'''Ripley''' store in the city center *'''Plaza Aventura''' - conventional large shopping mall *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed, so be careful. *'''Mercado Central''' is smaller than the Mercado Modelo. ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} 55ketqtfh39t8x0kdetqdkjdbnm6biy 5288978 5288976 2026-06-07T04:14:08Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* See */ Updated listing for St. Mary's Cathedral 5288978 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: *'''Paseo Yortuque''' - A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. *'''Paseo de las Musas''' - This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. * {{see | name=St. Mary's Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.7717 | long=-79.8376 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St._Mary%27s_Cathedral,_Chiclayo | wikidata=Q5657325 | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=The cathedral in Neoclassical style is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo. Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Francis Prevost, was Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and regularly celebrated mass in the cathedral. }} A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-t%C3%BAcume Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center *'''Ripley''' store in the city center *'''Plaza Aventura''' - conventional large shopping mall *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed, so be careful. *'''Mercado Central''' is smaller than the Mercado Modelo. ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} k6eout4bmbjwq5taf1botfonm12nf9v 5288979 5288978 2026-06-07T04:19:11Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* See */ Added listing for Paseo de las Musas 5288979 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: *'''Paseo Yortuque''' - A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. *'''Paseo de las Musas''' - This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. * {{see | name=St. Mary's Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.7717 | long=-79.8376 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St._Mary%27s_Cathedral,_Chiclayo | wikidata=Q5657325 | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=The cathedral in Neoclassical style is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo. Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Francis Prevost, was Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and regularly celebrated mass in the cathedral. }} A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-t%C3%BAcume Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. * {{see | name=Paseo de las Musas | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. }} ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center *'''Ripley''' store in the city center *'''Plaza Aventura''' - conventional large shopping mall *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed, so be careful. *'''Mercado Central''' is smaller than the Mercado Modelo. ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} 2ieqvetij0rr6omfijctka54nwgxqwn 5288982 5288979 2026-06-07T04:20:15Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* See */ 5288982 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: *'''Paseo Yortuque''' - A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. * {{see | name=Paseo de las Musas | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.7717 | long=-79.8376 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St._Mary%27s_Cathedral,_Chiclayo | wikidata=Q5657325 | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=The cathedral in Neoclassical style is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo. Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Francis Prevost, was Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and regularly celebrated mass in the cathedral. }} A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-t%C3%BAcume Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center *'''Ripley''' store in the city center *'''Plaza Aventura''' - conventional large shopping mall *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed, so be careful. *'''Mercado Central''' is smaller than the Mercado Modelo. ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} 5if2sxtwqyez3nvt8q8ny1lgqtca5y0 5288983 5288982 2026-06-07T04:21:47Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* See */ Updated listing for Paseo de las Musas 5288983 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: *'''Paseo Yortuque''' - A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. * {{see | name=Paseo de las Musas | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.779722 | long=-79.840472 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.7717 | long=-79.8376 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St._Mary%27s_Cathedral,_Chiclayo | wikidata=Q5657325 | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=The cathedral in Neoclassical style is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo. Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Francis Prevost, was Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and regularly celebrated mass in the cathedral. }} A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-t%C3%BAcume Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center *'''Ripley''' store in the city center *'''Plaza Aventura''' - conventional large shopping mall *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed, so be careful. *'''Mercado Central''' is smaller than the Mercado Modelo. ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} 6gs9qqa7awqatuksq71pnzek7hj7hvo 5288985 5288983 2026-06-07T04:25:12Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* See */ Updated listing for Paseo de las Musas 5288985 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: *'''Paseo Yortuque''' - A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. * {{see | name=Paseo de las Musas | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.779604 | long=-79.841033 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.7717 | long=-79.8376 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St._Mary%27s_Cathedral,_Chiclayo | wikidata=Q5657325 | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=The cathedral in Neoclassical style is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo. Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Francis Prevost, was Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and regularly celebrated mass in the cathedral. }} A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-t%C3%BAcume Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center *'''Ripley''' store in the city center *'''Plaza Aventura''' - conventional large shopping mall *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed, so be careful. *'''Mercado Central''' is smaller than the Mercado Modelo. ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} m2alagmcxiizaan8byduu8hxjwrcac8 5288986 5288985 2026-06-07T04:26:07Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* See */ Updated listing for Paseo de las Musas 5288986 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: *'''Paseo Yortuque''' - A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. * {{see | name=Paseo de las Musas | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.779849 | long=-79.840545 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.7717 | long=-79.8376 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St._Mary%27s_Cathedral,_Chiclayo | wikidata=Q5657325 | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=The cathedral in Neoclassical style is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo. Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Francis Prevost, was Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and regularly celebrated mass in the cathedral. }} A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-t%C3%BAcume Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center *'''Ripley''' store in the city center *'''Plaza Aventura''' - conventional large shopping mall *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed, so be careful. *'''Mercado Central''' is smaller than the Mercado Modelo. ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} k2z6doooqaga61ekzma3o3hk1c63pz5 5288987 5288986 2026-06-07T04:28:58Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* See */ Added listing for Paseo Yortuque 5288987 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: *'''Paseo Yortuque''' - A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. * {{see | name=Paseo de las Musas | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.779849 | long=-79.840545 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.7717 | long=-79.8376 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St._Mary%27s_Cathedral,_Chiclayo | wikidata=Q5657325 | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=The cathedral in Neoclassical style is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo. Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Francis Prevost, was Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and regularly celebrated mass in the cathedral. }} A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-t%C3%BAcume Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. * {{see | name=Paseo Yortuque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.786606 | long=-79.840354 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. }} ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center *'''Ripley''' store in the city center *'''Plaza Aventura''' - conventional large shopping mall *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed, so be careful. *'''Mercado Central''' is smaller than the Mercado Modelo. ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} sivh8fiko5zb8mfi7vgtiki0yoxoyku 5288989 5288987 2026-06-07T04:30:20Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* See */ Added Yortuque paseo. 5288989 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: * {{see | name=Paseo Yortuque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.786606 | long=-79.840354 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. }} * {{see | name=Paseo de las Musas | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.779849 | long=-79.840545 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.7717 | long=-79.8376 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St._Mary%27s_Cathedral,_Chiclayo | wikidata=Q5657325 | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=The cathedral in Neoclassical style is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo. Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Francis Prevost, was Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and regularly celebrated mass in the cathedral. }} A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-t%C3%BAcume Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center *'''Ripley''' store in the city center *'''Plaza Aventura''' - conventional large shopping mall *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed, so be careful. *'''Mercado Central''' is smaller than the Mercado Modelo. ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} nrg52qvh72m1gagypjtyc8y4cvd0dk3 5288990 5288989 2026-06-07T04:36:02Z Tderflinger 2324640 /* Get around */ Added map. 5288990 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} '''Chiclayo''' is in [[Northern Coast (Peru)|northern coastal Peru]]. [[File:Chiclayo plaza.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Armas in Chiclayo]] ==Understand== Chiclayo is one of the liveliest cities in northern Peru. It has a population of around 609,000 (2022). It is big enough to have supermarkets and small enough to be manageable without hours spend in city buses. The plazas like Parque Principal or Plazuela Elias Aguirre buzz with life even after sunset. {{climate chart |Chiclayo |20.7 |30.0 |5.9 |22.0 |31.4 |2.4 |21.8 |31.2 |8.8 |19.8 |29.5 |4.0 |18.5 |27.3 |1.3 |17.5 |25.3 |0.4 |16.6 |24.5 |0.0 |16.2 |24.0 |0.3 |16.1 |24.4 |0.6 |16.3 |24.9 |0.8 |17.1 |25.8 |1.9 |18.7 |27.8 |0.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Chiclayo]] |description= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de FAP Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo | alt={{IATA|CIX}} | url=https://adp.com.pe/es/sede/chiclayo | email= | address=Aeropuertos del Peru, Av Fitzcarrald S/N | lat=-6.7773 | long=-79.8293 | directions=Av Fitzcarrald y Av Francisco Bolognesi, 300 m south of Av S Francisco Asisi (PE-6A) at the eastern edge of town. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=FAP_Captain_José_Abelardo_Quiñones_González_International_Airport | wikidata=Q3275990 | content=The airport is served by:. }} :* [https://www.latamairlines.com/pe/es/destinos/vuelos-a-chiclayo Latam]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Lima) :* [https://www.jetsmart.com/pe/es/ JetSmart] (Lima) :* [https://www.starperu.com Star Peru] ([[Lima]], [[Iquitos]], [[Tarapoto]]) :* [https://destinationsguide.copaair.com/es/vuelos-desde-chiclayo Copa Airlines]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ([[Tocumen_International_Airport|Panama City]]). The Capitan José A. Quiñones Gonzálezo Airport is at the eastern edge of town on Av Fitzcarrald, 300 m south of its intersection with Av San Francisco Asisi (PE-6A). There is a fairly universal ATM in the departure check-in area, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. The departure tax is included in your ticket fare and the taxis out in the parking are the best way into town. ===By bus=== All the major bus lines are present in Chiclayo but most have their own terminal spread out over the city. Linea is on Av. Bolognesi 638. One block west of Linea is the Terminal for most north- or eastbound buses. Movil is around the corner opposite the Metro supermarket (LP says Av. Bolognesi 199 but it is Av. Jose Balta). Bus tickets can be purchased via Redbus App. Chiclayo has a number of bus terminals used by different companies serving different destinations: * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/ITTSA+Bus/@-6.776522,-79.8443274,19.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2686d3dc89:0x2def0d9010077ab9!8m2!3d-6.7762524!4d-79.8440839 ITTSABUS]''' terminal is at the intersection of Av. Francisco Bolognesi and Av. Grau. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TRC+CHICLAYO/@-6.79376,-79.8486353,18.46z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef40bae232f9:0xc5dd62831eb2849d!8m2!3d-6.7939558!4d-79.8477935 TRC Express]''', at Av. Grau 1645. ([https://www.trcexpress.com/ web site]), serves [[Cajamarca]], [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] and [[Lima]]. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Empresa+de+Transportes+Chiclayo+S.A./@-6.7701615,-79.8476531,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8becd1caf:0x8ffccd1270ac06b6!8m2!3d-6.7701668!4d-79.8454591 Transportes Chiclayo]''' bus company's terminal is at Av. Jose Leonardo Ortiz 010, (on Google Maps it is named "Empresa de Transportes Chiclayo S.A.") * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/OLTURSA+CHICLAYO/@-6.769971,-79.8459219,233m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed8eaaf39a7:0xd7f84e0a2ccb45fc!8m2!3d-6.7699634!4d-79.8451218 Oltursa]''' terminal, is diagonally opposite to Transportes Chiclayo, on the same intersection * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Plaza+Norte+Chiclayo/@-6.7581213,-79.8616837,19z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceeee56401e51:0xa991f139b4c72933!8m2!3d-6.7581213!4d-79.8608895 Terrapuerto Plaza Norte]''' Chiclayo, on Av. Augusto B. Leguia 2590, is used by bus companies Tepsa, Super Semeria, Ronco Peru, Bus star, Fropesa, Turismo Jaen, Transportes Cromotex, Poseidon, Rutas del Oriente, Turismo Erick el Rojo, Turismo Alysergen and Seysan. * "[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Grupo+Orme%C3%B1o+Terminal+Terrestre+Chiclayo/@-6.7791351,-79.8376458,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cef2e7e555555:0xf454edc3137255ab!8m2!3d-6.7791404!4d-79.8354518 '''Ormeño''' Terminal Terrestre Chiclayo]", on Av. Victor Raul Haya de la Torre, is used by companies Cautivo, allinbus, Sajybus. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/6%C2%B045'44.7%22S+79%C2%B050'43.1%22W/@-6.7624066,-79.8462893,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x264187c8037df1e1!7e2!8m2!3d-6.7624094!4d-79.8453115 Ovalo del Pescador]''', (Google Maps "Paradero Mórrope"), at intersection of Av. Leguia and Av. Belaunde, is where small combis serving towns of Mochumi, Illimo, Tucume, Pacora, Jayanca, Olmos and Motupe. * '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Terminal+EPSEL/@-6.7628797,-79.8337941,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ceed2e28dcb55:0x58b115362bbcf7f1!8m2!3d-6.7629108!4d-79.8313052 Terminal Epsel]''', at intersection of Av. Pierola and Av. Quiñones, are only for combi vans which serve closer destinations like Sipan, Chongoyape, Zaña, Pomalca, Batan Grande, Ferreñafe etc. * [https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/TOURS+ANGEL+DIVINO+S.A.C./@-6.7632676,-79.8308385,18.08z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x904ceed32c968d3d:0xacb7fdec7b8eae12!8m2!3d-6.7633988!4d-79.829775!16s%2Fg%2F11b7gprwhy '''Angel Divino'''], bus company also serves Trujullo, Lima, Cajamarca and more ==Get around== {{mapframe|-6.77365|-79.84203|zoom=13|height=500|width=500}} Chiclayo is full of Tico taxis. Short journeys cost S/3. A station would be better if less easy to find to go to Sipan, Ferreñafe, Lambayeque or the beaches S/15, or Tucume S/20. Three wheeler motor rickshaw ''mototaxis'' cost half the price. "''Colectivos''" (or "''taxi colectivos''") in Peru refer to shared ''sedan'' taxis that takes 4 passengers, not the midi-bus type in some other South American countries. ''Combis'' are 8-12 seater small vans. ==See== In the city of Chiclayo: * {{see | name=Paseo Yortuque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.786606 | long=-79.840354 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=A public recreational park featuring many statues of mythical significance to the pre-hispanic Moche and Lambayeque cultures. The walking area is lined with many trees and a canal. }} * {{see | name=Paseo de las Musas | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.779849 | long=-79.840545 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=This popular public park has many statues of Greek goddesses, the muses. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-6.7717 | long=-79.8376 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St._Mary%27s_Cathedral,_Chiclayo | wikidata=Q5657325 | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=The cathedral in Neoclassical style is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo. Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Francis Prevost, was Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and regularly celebrated mass in the cathedral. }} A few surrounding sites can be visited from Chiclayo as a base. *'''Sipan Museum - ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Tumbas+Reales+de+Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7049947,-79.9016384,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904ced95b3f86613:0x857493231de21e08!8m2!3d-6.705!4d-79.8994444 Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan])''' - The museum is in the center of [[Lambayeque]] and definitely worth a visit although descriptions are in Spanish only. It features most of the treasures of the Sipan tombs together including a replica of the grave looked like and how it was discovered in 1989. Ticket S/10. Open Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Taxi colectivos from Chiclayo run from many places, while combis run from Terminal Epsel, cost S/3). No restrictions on photography as of 2023 Feb. *'''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Archaeological+Complex+of+Huaca+Rajada+-+Sipan/@-6.8007754,-79.6021814,427m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!2sMuseo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881!3m4!1s0x0:0xaead6911e0013b47!8m2!3d-6.8015547!4d-79.6024934 Huaca Rajada]''' archeological complex (and '''[https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+de+Sitio+Huaca+Rajada-Sip%C3%A1n/@-6.7997911,-79.6024799,958m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x904cc528d0093d3b:0x18ff775ef7c3d6c7!8m2!3d-6.7997795!4d-79.6002881 Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán]''') funeral site of the Lord of Sipan and truncated pyramids. To reach, take combi from Terminal Epsel to the town of Sipan (cost S/ 6), then 1.7 km mototaxi from Sipan (or 21 min walk) *'''Sipan tombs''' - The excavation site is 30 km out of town *'''Tucume''' and '''[https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-t%C3%BAcume Museo de Sitio Tucume]''' - archeological site with 26 pyramids built by the ancient Peruvians. Daily 08:00-16:30pm. 32 km north of Chiclayo. To reach, take combi from Ovalo del Pescador in Chiclayo, cost S/6. *'''Sican Museum ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Museo+Nacional+Sic%C3%A1n/@-6.6240776,-79.7877615,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x904c94df8d80ab35:0x5c9b562cb196a1c6!8m2!3d-6.6238105!4d-79.785768 Museo Nacional Sicán])''' - (different from Si'''p'''an Museum). Museum with replica of Sican tomb burial site discovered in 1987, exhibits remains of Sican culture. It is 18 km north of Chiclayo in Ferreñafe. To reach, take combi from Chiclayo Terminal Epsel to Ferreñafe town, (cost S/ 3) then a short mototaxi from town to the museum (1.2 km, cost S/ 2, 2023 Feb prices.) *Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary ([https://www.google.com.pe/maps/place/Santuario+Hist%C3%B3rico+Bosque+de+P%C3%B3mac/@-6.485237,-79.7758246,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x904c97876c890aa3:0xe2d1b86b1ab97783!8m2!3d-6.4852423!4d-79.7736306!16s%2Fm%2F05f77vd Santuario Histórico Bosque de Pómac]). Combi from Terminal Epsel, cost S/ 8. ==Do== *'''Witch Market''' - Deep in the market quarters is one row of shops called the witch market (probably second row of shops coming from around Arica #950) ==Buy== *'''Real Plaza''' shopping center *'''Ripley''' store in the city center *'''Plaza Aventura''' - conventional large shopping mall *'''Mercado Modelo''' is a very big market where it´s possible to buy almost anything. It´s crowded and it´s easy to get robbed, so be careful. *'''Mercado Central''' is smaller than the Mercado Modelo. ==Eat== ===Budget=== *'''Mi Tia's''' on Elias Aguirre on the corner of the town square is excellent! Very friendly staff, a good selection of food, to go orders, dine in and at night they have a burger window! ===Mid-range=== *'''Marakos Restaurant''' offers good menus. Grilled beef is one of the most popular and delicious dishes. *'''Sorrentos''' - this evening-only set of diners is not to be missed: great beef empanadas, excellent French fries and top notch salad. Also great Lomo. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com | email= | address=Av. Salaverry 1820 | lat=-6.768616 | long=-79.866567 | directions= | phone=+51 74 201 970 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Casa de la Luna | alt= | url=http://www.casadelaluna.com.pe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Alojamiento Z | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mariscal Catilla 118 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+51 74-222534 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=06:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=S/25 | content=Av Bolgnesi cuadra 9. Close to Cruz del Sur bus terminal. Quiet in the center of town. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Costa del Sol Chiclay | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/chiclayo-peru/wyndham-costa-del-sol-chiclayo/overview | email= | address=Av Balta 399 | lat=-6.774394 | long=-79.838876 | directions= | phone=+51 74 227272 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-17 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== The bus companies, hotels & thieves are very central. Do not flash any valuables (such as taking a photo) when walking around this area; it looks safe but there are thieves around. Pimentel is a fairly unsafe area. Travellers are reported to be robbed there in broad daylight, close to the beach. ==Cope== ==Go next== * [http://www.transporteslinea.com.pe Transportes Linea] {{dead link|December 2020}} has hourly buses to [[Trujillo (Peru)|Trujillo]] (3 hours) & on to Lima (11 hours). * [http://www.moviltours.com.pe Movil Tours] are good value to [[Chachapoyas]] & [[Tarapoto]]. {{usablecity}} {{geo|-6.762961|-79.836614}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Coast (Peru)}} py9e45zpwbr8fbkg01zrehwnxe74phn 0 7589 5288939 5266193 2026-06-06T20:39:58Z AlasdairW 1812 /* Budget */ Added listing for YHA Cotswolds 5288939 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Cirencester banner 1.jpg|A typical Cotswolds street in Cirencester}} '''Cirencester''' is a picturesque market town in the [[Cotswolds]], in the county of [[Gloucestershire]]. It's an ancient market town with traditional Cotswold buildings and thriving shopping centre. It's worth spending a morning here, especially on a Saturday. Every other Saturday there is a farmer's market. == Understand == [[Image:Cirencester - geograph.org.uk - 1194773.jpg | 350px | thumb | Cirencester]] Cirencester is the Roman capital of the Cotswolds, Roman '''Corinium'''. People are very friendly and it's easy to get in. The town is famous for its polo connections in the Cirencester Great Park, and for the Royal Agricultural College. It's about 90 miles west of [[London]] and in 2011 had a population of 19,076. * [http://www.cirencester.co.uk/ Town council website] ==Get in== * {{go | name=Kemble train station | alt= | url=https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations/kemble/ | email= | address=Windmill Hill, Kemble, Gloucestershire, GL7 6AW | lat=51.676 | long=-2.023 | directions={{mi|4}} southwest of Cirencester | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1877761 | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Cirencester has no train station, however, Kemble has connections to [[Swindon]] and [[London Paddington]] to the east, and [[Gloucester (England)|Gloucester]] and [[Cheltenham]] to the north. }} There's usually one bus an hour to Cirencester from [[Swindon]], Cheltenham and [[Stroud]]. There is a National Express Bus service to [[Heathrow Airport]] and [[London Victoria]] from the Beeches Car Park (''near the town center''). Parking in Cirencester has become more expensive, but there are many car parks near the centre. There is also parking on the high street, but not on market days. == Get around == {{Mapframe | 51.720 | -1.970 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=14 }} The town is small enough to walk around on foot, and was pedestrianised in 2017. ==See== [[File:Cirencester StJohnBaptistChurch.jpg|thumb|St John Baptist Church]] * {{see | name=The Roman Amphitheatre | alt= | url=https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/cirencester-amphitheatre/ | email= | address=Cotswold Avenue, Cirencester | lat=51.7112 | long=-1.9723 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Cirencester Amphitheatre | image=Cirencester Amphitheatre.jpg | wikidata=Q5121861 | content=On the outskirts of the town is an original mound formation used for entertainment during Roman times. In winter the locals like to use for tobogganing! Owned by English Heritage. }} * {{see | name=Corinium Museum | alt= | url=http://coriniummuseum.org | email= | address=Park Street, Cirencester | lat=51.7173 | long=-1.9711 | directions= | phone=+44 1285 655611 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-5PM; Su 2PM-5PM | price= | wikipedia=Corinium Museum | image=Corinium Museum, Cirencester - geograph.org.uk - 676934.jpg | wikidata=Q5170562 | content=Excellent visitor attraction in the town centre about the town's Roman heritage. }} * {{see | name=Parish Church of St John the Baptist | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.7174 | long=-1.9678 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Church of St. John the Baptist, Cirencester | image=Cirencester StJohnBaptistChurch.jpg | wikidata=Q5117244 | content=Called the 'Cathedral of the Cotswolds', this is an impressive large church right in the centre of the town. }} * {{see | name=Abbey Grounds | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.7192 | long=-1.9656| directions=Behind the Church | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-5PM | price= | content=This is a large park that was a Catholic Abbey before its destruction by Henry VIII. }} ===Kemble=== A small village 5 miles southwest of Cirencester: * {{see | name=Kemble railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address=Windmill Hill, Kemble, GL7 6AW | lat=51.676 | long=-2.023 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kemble railway station | image=Departure for Swindon - geograph.org.uk - 337279.jpg | wikidata=Q1877761 | content=Very picturesque, and frequently wins national awards for its traditional look. }} * {{see | name=All Saints' church | alt= | url= | email= | address=Limes Rd, Kemble, GL7 6AE | lat=51.672129 | long=-2.016399 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Town's parish church that dates back to 1250. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Outdoor Swimming Pool | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.7199 | long=-1.9727 | directions=Near Gloucester Street | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Swim outdoors in the summer }} *{{do | name=New Brewery Arts | url=http://www.newbreweryarts.org.uk | email= | address=Brewery Court | lat=51.7156 | long=-1.9682 | directions=Off Cricklade Street - by the Brewery Car park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 10AM-4PM | price=Free | content=A centre for contemporary craft in the Cotswolds: a gallery, shop, cafe and on-site makers studios, all open to the public. Regular workshop and events. Buildings house a lift, ramps and aerial walkways giving over 90% wheelchair access. The Barrel Store has specially adapted rooms for guests with access needs. Disabled toilet facilities are available on the ground floor. Disabled car parking is available in the adjoining car park. Assistance dogs are welcome. }} * {{do | name=Cotswold Gliding Club | alt= | url=http://www.cotswoldgliding.co.uk/index.htm | email= | address=Aston Down Airfield, Cowcombe Ln, Chalford, Stroud, GL6 8HR | lat=51.711794 | long=-2.13169 | directions= | phone=+44 1285 760415 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Cotswold Gliding Club | wikidata=Q5175479 | content= }} ==Buy== There are the typical high-street chains here, but there are some good special local shops in Dyer Street, the Market Place and in Black Jack Street behind the church. A great locally-owned fresh fish shop, New Wave, in Dyer Street, sells quality sustainable Cornish fish and shellfish, as well as homemade fishpies, fishcakes and potted shrimp. ==Eat== ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=McDonald’s | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-02-12 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Burger King | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-02-12 | content= }} * {{eat | name=KFC | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-02-12 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Greggs | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-02-12 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Pizza Express | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.7161 | long=-1.9709 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chain pizza restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Thai Emerald | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.716232 | long=-1.970638 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Passione | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.716231 | long=-1.970029 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Italian. }} * {{eat | name=The Tavern Inn | alt= | url=http://www.arkells.com/the-tavern-inn-kemble.htm | email= | address=Kemble, GL7 6AX | lat=51.675929 | long=-2.023698 | directions=next to the train station | phone=+44 1285 770216 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=pub }} === Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Jesse's Bistro | alt= | url= | email= | address=Black Jack Street | lat=51.717 | long=-1.969 | directions= | phone=+44 1285 653387 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=£15 and up | content=A really good bistro experience, connected to their own butcher shop on Black Jack street. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Crown | alt= | url=http://www.crownciren.com/ | email= | address=17 West Market Place, GL7 2NH | lat=51.717365 | long=-1.968816 | directions=facing the front of the church, it will be directly left of you | phone=+44 1285 653206 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 11:30AM-11PM, F 11:30AM-midnight, Sa 10AM-midnight, Su noon-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-09-02 | content=Reasonable beer. Unexciting chain pub. }} * {{drink | name=Somewhere Else | alt= | url= | email= | address=Castle Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-09-02 | content=Pub-atmosphere bar, fantastic tapas, good late night atmosphere. Friendly. }} * {{drink | name=Twelve Bells | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-09-02 | content=Good food, good beer and a friendly cosy environment. }} * {{drink | name=The Wheatsheaf | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cricklade St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-09-02 | content=''The'' place to watch sport }} * {{drink | name=The Oddfellows | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chester St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-09-02 | content=Refurbished but ordinary beers. Walking distance of town centre. }} * {{drink | name=The Rock Nightclub! | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-09-02 | content=In the shopping piazza.. Where ''everyone'' ends up; even Prince Harry has been spotted here! }} * {{drink | name=The Bees Knees | alt= | url= | email= | address=Watermoor Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-09-02 | content=''The'' place to watch rugby. }} * {{drink | name=The Black Horse | alt=Castle Street | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.71669 | long=1.96947 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-09-14 | content=Real ale. Great place to meet friends. }} * {{drink | name=The Inn at Fossebridge | alt= | url=https://www.innatfossebridge.co.uk/ | email= | address=Fossebridge GL54 3JS | lat=51.800 | long=-1.886 | directions=on A429 | phone=+44 1285 720721 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-11PM | price= | lastedit=2020-07-12 | content=17th-century coaching inn with garden dining area, dog-friendly. Has rooms, B&B double £110. }} ==Sleep== === Budget === * {{sleep | name=Abbey Home Farm | alt= | url=https://www.theorganicfarmshop.co.uk/| email= | address=Burford Road GL7 5HF | lat=51.732 | long=-1.939 | directions= | phone=+44 1285 640441 | tollfree= | fax= | price=Tent £16 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-04-01 | content=Off-grid campsite next to organic farm shop. No dogs as this is a working farm with livestock. }} * {{sleep | name=YHA Cotswolds | alt= | url= | email= | address=New Brewery Arts, Brewery Court, Cirencester, GL7 1HW | lat=51.716414 | long=-1.968918 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=from £40 | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=Hostel where all guests have a private room. }} === Mid-range === * {{sleep | name=The Old Bungalow Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.bandbcirencester.co.uk | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=6 quality bed and breakfast en suite rooms (2 of which are located on the ground floor). 2 self-catering properties also available. Secure gated parking and Wifi. A few minutes walk from the centre of this historic market town. }} * {{sleep | name=Stratton House Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.strattonhousehotel.com/ | email= | address=Gloucester Road, GL7 2LE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1285 651761 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=11AM | price=From £45 | content=Close to town, good for a break in the Cotswolds. }} * {{sleep | name=The Old Brewhouse | alt= | url=http://www.theoldbrewhouse.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=The Old Brewhouse in Cirencester is a delightful 17th-century town house bed and breakfast full of charm and character, sympathetically restored and refurbished offering high quality accommodation. }} * '''Le Spa Hotel''', in Stratton, short walk from town centre, Cotswold Manor House with superb spa and events facilities. * '''The Fleece Hotel''', High street. 1651 restaurant. * {{sleep | name=Village Pub | alt= | url=https://www.barnsleyhouse.com/the-village-pub/ | email= | address=Barnsley GL7 5EF | lat= | long= | directions=on B4425, 100 yards north of Barnsley House Hotel | phone=+44 1285 740421 | tollfree= | fax= | price=B&B double £120 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2020-08-19 | content=Charming Cotswold pub with six rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Wild Thyme & Honey | alt= | url=https://www.wildthymeandhoney.co.uk/ | email= | address=Ampney Crucis GL7 5RS | lat=51.7143 | long=-1.9040 | directions=on A417 | phone=+44 1285 851806 | tollfree= | fax= | price=B&B double £140 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2022-07-20 | content=Attractive country inn with 24 rooms by the village green, great dining. }} * {{sleep | name=Well Cottage Bed and Breakfast | alt= | url=http://www.wellcottagebandb.co.uk/ | email= | address= | lat=51.676107 | long=-1.995119 | directions= | phone=+44 1285 770212 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-30 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Bell at Sapperton | alt= | url=https://www.bellsapperton.co.uk/ | email= | address=Church Lane, Sapperton GL7 6LE | lat=51.7280 | long=-2.0762 | directions= | phone=+44 1285 760298 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2024-12-28 | content=Pleasant pub with rooms and good dining. }} === Splurge === * {{sleep | name=De Vere Cotswold Water Park | alt= | url=https://www.phcompany.com/de-vere/cotswold-water-park-hotel/ | email=WaterParkReservations@devere.com | address=Lake 6 | lat=51.671013 | long=-1.902302 | directions= | phone=+44 1285 864000 | tollfree= | fax=+44 1285 864001 | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price=£58-119 | lastedit=2016-12-07 | content=Four Pillars Hotel Group. 4-star hotel and apartments on the Lakes at South Cerney, outside Cirencester. It has 328 bedrooms, 21 meeting and event suites, a spa, bar and restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Talbot Inn | alt= | url=http://www.talbotinncotswolds.co.uk/ | email= | address=14 Victoria Road | lat= | long= | directions=from centre of town, at church, head East along road 200 yards to junction with Victoria Road | phone =+44 1285 653760 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=About £100 for a double. }} * {{sleep | name=King's Head Hotel | alt= | url=https://kingshead-hotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=24 Market Place GL7 2NR | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+44 1285 700900 | tollfree= | fax= | price=B&B double from £120 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2020-06-30 | content=Town centre coaching inn, part dates back to 17th century, but all given a swish makeover in 2014. }} * {{sleep | name=The Pig | alt=formerly Barnsley House | url=https://www.barnsleyhouse.com/ | email= | address=Barnsley, Cirencester GL7 5EE | lat=51.743 | long=-1.890 | directions=on B4425 | phone=+44 1285 740000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-21 | content=This upscale country hotel in a 17th-century manor has become part of the Pig chain, and is closed until summer 2024 for refurbishment. }} * {{sleep | name=Swan Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.cotswold-inns-hotels.co.uk/the-swan-hotel/ | email= | address=Bibury GL7 5NW | lat=51.761 | long=-1.835 | directions=on B4425 | phone=+44 1285 740695 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £200 | lastedit=2020-08-19 | content=Lovely old hotel in 17th-century coaching inn on the river side, with good dining. }} == Connect == Cirencester and its approach roads have 4G from all UK carriers. As of July 2022, 5G has not reached this area. == Go next == * Charming Cotswolds villages surround the town. * [[Cheltenham]] is a wonderful Georgian spa town. * [[Witney]] is where you come into lower pastoral country towards Oxford. {{routebox | image2=UK road A435.svg | imagesize2=40 | directionl2=N | majorl2=[[Cheltenham]] | minorl2=Colesbourne | directionr2=S | minorr2= | majorr2=merges with [[Image:UK road A417.svg|40px|A417]] | image3=UK road A429.svg | imagesize3=40 | directionl3=NE | majorl3=[[Warwick (England)|Warwick]] and [[Leamington Spa]] | minorl3=[[Bourton-on-the-Water]] | directionr3=SE | minorr3=[[Kemble]] | majorr3=[[Malmesbury]] | image4=UK road A419.svg | imagesize4=40 | directionl4=W | majorl4=[[Stroud]] | minorl4=Chalford | directionr4=SE | minorr4=[[Cricklade]] | majorr4=[[Swindon]] | image5=UK road A417.svg | imagesize5=40 | directionl5=N | majorl5=[[Gloucester (England)|Gloucester]] | minorl5= | directionr5=E | minorr5=[[Faringdon]] | majorr5=merges with [[Image:UK road A420.svg|40px|A420]] ([[Oxford]]) }} {{geo|51.719|-1.968}} {{isPartOf|Gloucestershire}} {{usablecity}} r2zar5euyytc4oz2f8e2z1kmeqy1q6j 0 8288 5288888 5243589 2026-06-06T15:45:54Z ~2026-33492-54 2419091 updated the link to Kingfisher Park 5288888 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Coron beach.jpg}} '''Coron''' is a town in the province of [[Palawan]] on [[Busuanga]] Island. The area is famous for its World War II '''wreck diving''', and the site has been named in many lists of top dive spots in the world. There are many beautiful white sand beaches, mostly tiny and surrounded by large limestone cliffs and wildlife. ==Understand== [[File:Coron from Mount Tapyas.JPG|thumb|Coron from Mount Tapyas]] Coron is the name of the largest town (population 69,000 in 2024) on [[Busuanga Island]], and the name of a smaller island just offshore. In September 1944 during the [[Pacific War]], a fleet of Japanese ships hiding in the harbor were sunk in a daring raid by the US Navy. The result is around ten well-preserved shipwrecks in fairly shallow water (10-40m) surrounded with coral reef. Barracuda and Kayangan lakes on Coron Island are stunning locations, and good for snorkeling, and the island is the ancestral domain of an indigenous tribe who are managing the island in a sustainable way and keeping outsiders at a distance and offshore at night. ===History=== The first inhabitants of Coron were the Tagbanuas who belong to the second wave of [[Austronesian]]s who migrated to this area some 5,000 years ago. They were a nomadic, seafaring people, living mainly by fishing and subsistence agriculture. Although they are now sedentary (with the young using cell phones, etc.), they maintain many of their old customs, traditions and beliefs. Today, the Tagbanuas remain the dominant if not entire population of Coron. [[File:Coron 141.jpg|thumb]] In 1902, Coron was registered as a town and its name was changed from "Penon de Coron" to "Coron". From 1939 to the outbreak of World War II, the municipality experienced the mining boom. Labor shifted from farming to mining. In July 1942, the Japanese occupied the mining camps and resumed operation of the manganese mines. On September 24, 1944, a group of Japanese ships were sunk by American warplanes in Coron waters as the ships retreated from Manila Bay. About 10 or 12 of these World War II Japanese shipwrecks comprise what is considered one of the best dive sites in the world. In 1947, large scale deep sea fishing was introduced to Coron, and the town experienced another boom, a fishing boom. The population increased, as many people from Luzon and the Visayas came to work either as fishermen or miners. [[File:Coron Banca Boat, Palawan - panoramio.jpg|thumb|Banca Boat]] Coron used to be virtually unknown outside of Palawan. It remains a small, quaint fishing town with laid back charm but with increasing media exposure it is growing, slowly but steadily, Coron has taken an important position in the tourism industry. There has been a rapid influx of scuba divers and other tourists coming in, making tourism the major industry player in Coron today. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|11.99747|120.20554|zoom=17|height=470|width=470}} ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Francisco B. Reyes Airport | alt=Busuanga Airport, {{IATA|USU}} | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Francisco B. Reyes Airport | wikidata=Q3500743 | lastedit=2019-02-08 | content=PAL Express and [http://www.cebupacificair.com/ Cebu Pacific] provides frequent flights from Manila. [http://www.airjuan.com/ Air Juan] has flights from [[Puerto Princesa]] and Caticlan ([[Boracay]]), which takes 75 minutes, only on Tuesdays and Fridays. }} There are fixed cost van transfers from the airport to the town, which cost {{PHP|250}} per head ({{PHP|2000}} for the whole van). After exiting the airport, van transfer employees will ask what hotel you are at, collect payment, and direct you to a van with travelers in similar hotel locations to you. The van leaves when it is full. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes. ===By boat=== * '''2GO Travel''' From [[Manila]] and [[Puerto Princesa]]. one 2GO ferry Leave Manila on Friday afternoon (4:15PM) and arrive in Coron early Saturday morning (5:30AM). Departs Puerto Princesa on Saturday night (board at 9-10PM) and heads back to Coron, arriving 3PM Sunday, and then continues on to Manila. 2GO Travel have two ferries a week. * '''[http://www.atienzashippinglines.com/ Atienza Shipping Lines]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' has two ships from Manila stopping in Coron and other Palawan destinations. They transport cargo and passengers. M/V April Rose departs Wednesdays at 6PM and the journey takes about 18 hours. Economy class ticket {{PHP|1000}}, AC class ticket {{PHP|1150}}. The bunks are the same in both classes, but AC class is out of the wind and engine noise. M/V May Lily also sails. The Atienza website is inaccurate, so call them to confirm the schedule on +63 9998817266 (Manila). Departs in front of their office (green container): 1st Street Muelle del Rio corner Tacoma, Port Area, Manila * '''Pump boats''': Larger pump boats (motor ''bancas'') depart most days of the week from El Nido to Coron and vice versa. The day trip takes 7–8 hours and bookings can be made at various tourist offices or just drop by the Port Area (Philippine Ports Authority) as early as 6AM to catch the trip. The costs vary from {{PHP|1200}} to {{PHP|1400}} and departures vary between 7:30-9AM, depending on the carrier. The fare includes a hearty hot meal. These are larger comfortable boats, built for ferrying passengers. The scenery during this daytime trip is beautiful. ** ''Wave'' & ''Hannah'': El Nido to Coron/Linapacan - Su W F 9AM. From Coron to El Nido/Linapacan - Tu Th Sa 9AM. {{PHP|1400}} {{phone|+63 949-144-1677}} or {{phone|+63 916-543-5146}}. ** ''Island Commander''. (120 passengers - two stories): El Nido to Coron Tu Su 8:30AM. Coron to El Nido M Sa 8:30AM. ** Overcomer motor ''bancas'': El Nido to Coron - M 8AM, W 7:30AM, Th 8AM. Coron to El Nido - Tu 8AM, Th 7:30AM, F 8AM. {{phone|+63 999-978-8564}}. * '''[http://www.montenegrolines.com.ph/ Montenegro Shipping Lines]{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' There is a daily ro-ro vessel trip from [[San Jose (Mindoro)|San Jose, Occidental Mindoro]] to Coron catering to passenger and rolling-cargo. The ship departs daily (Wednesday to Sunday) from San Jose at 6AM and arrives Coron at around 10AM. Trip back to San Jose will depart Coron 4PM and arrives San Jose at around 8PM. San Jose to Cubao, Quezon City buses await passengers going to Metro Manila via Calapan-Batangas City ro-ro travel. The Coron to Cubao trip and vice-versa will cost at least {{PHP|1600}}. *'''[https://web.facebook.com/bunsotransport/ Bunso Transport]''' {{phone|+63 94 62635838}}. Operate pump boats from [[San Jose (Occidental Mindoro)|San Jose]] three times a week (7 hr, {{PHP|800}}). ==Get around== [[File:Coron, real street, 01.jpg|thumb|The main street of Coron]] * Tricycles are everywhere downtown. {{PHP|30}} for rides around town (per person), {{PHP|30}} total from port to town. * Motorcycles and vans are available for rent. * There are no taxis in Coron. * There is only once a day trip for buses or jeepneys Coron going to Busuanga and other areas. ==See== * There is a cross on the mountain above town, '''Mt.Tapyas'''. You can look at it from below or climb up the path. The 10-15 minute climb up is worth to see the view of the small islands surrounded by glass-like water. Great for sunset * '''Coron sign''' Noticeable from the water is a Hollywood-style sign up on a hill overlooking the town. * '''Mangroves''', natural mangroves are abundant, with magnificent kayak paddling trails. (Local mangrove kayaking tours are available through Kingfisher Park.) * '''Kayangan Lake''' {{PHP|280}} entrance fee (Oct 2018). A ticket card must be bought in town prior to your trip, ask at one of the agencies unless you have a tour-guide who will arrange for it. Before approaching the lake, go over the cave and glimpse at the great view on top of the mountain. This view is the most photographed area in Palawan. It is also judged as the cleanest lake in the country. * '''Twin Lagoon'''. The water and towering rocks are great photos (e.g. for posters.) On low tide, experience kayaking under the hole of the rock. At high tide, one can swim through the hole of the rock or a walkway can be used to get to the other side of the lagoon. {{PHP|100}} entrance fee. * '''Barracuda Lake''' is amazing. Entrance is {{PHP|180}}, no longer purchasable on site, see Kayangan Lake for same info. Bring goggles or snorkels to observe underwater rock formations. * '''CYC Island''' is nice but gets very busy. It's the only free beach in the area. Entrance fees for the other beaches aren't too steep ({{PHP|100}}). * '''Banol''' is very picturesque with its flower trees set against the rocky island. It has sugary fine white sand in its beachline. * '''Beach 69''' is not as good as Banol. Free if you come from Kayangan lake, however seems unmaintained. Beware of jellyfishes * '''7-Islands, aka Siete Pecados''' is an excellent snorkeling spot with one of the liveliest reefs in the area, also check Do section for more info. It was popularized by the shoot of a local television show of a mermaid love story. A local myth says that seven kids swam from the main island to escape it and follow their parents. They drowned and the place where they drowned is where the islands (or rocks) are now. ({{PHP|100}}). ==Do== === Island hopping === You'll find numerous small travel agencies and local trip operators in Coron Town offering '''island hopping tours'''. You'll likely receive flyers with offers as soon as you arrive at the airport, and advertising for tours is visible on almost every corner of the town. For a more personalized trip, you can head to the port and rent a private '''bangka''' (a traditional Filipino boat with outriggers) with a captain. However, be aware that for legal reasons, you will need a licensed tour guide (can also be the capain himself) to avoid issues with the authorities. Also, if you plan a self-organized trip, be sure to ask the captain in advance if they can prepare food on the boat. You can also buy meat, fish, veggies from the wet market and request the boat captain to barbecue or cook them for you or your group. The most '''budget-friendly option''' is to join a group tour. These tours typically follow a set route, taking you to the major attractions of the region. This can get quite crowded in the high season. A good overview of the different island-hopping programs can be found [https://coron-busuanga.com/island-hopping-coron/ here.] * '''Coron Island''' - is a black limestone island with breathtaking cliffs cascading down to 13 magnificent lakes (only two open to public) and powder white sand coral beaches. It is the home to local attractions '''Kayangan Lake''', '''Barracuda Lake''', '''Banol Beach''', '''Twin Lagoon''', and numerous snorkeling areas. These are the most popular and thus most frequented destinations by tourist boats. If you feel a bit more adventurous or just like to avoid the tourist boats, there is a possibility of renting a kayak in town (ask around at the boat loading area ~ {{PHP|500}} including compulsory safety vest) and cross the 4-km-wide strait to Coron island by paddelling (about 1 hr without training), however this is only advisable at smooth weather conditions. For the island bring mask, fins, and snorkel to observe underwater rock formations and some stunning coral reef cliffs. There is a pronounced thermocline, as the island's geothermal energy heats up the water as you descend into the lakes and water around the island. It is the ancestral home of the local Tagbanua people group. * {{do | name=Siete Pecadoes aka Seven Islands | alt= | url=https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=17/11.98357/120.23075 | email= | address= | lat=11.98357 | long=120.23075 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Among the best and easiest to access sites to snorkel in Coron. It is 3.5 km east of Coron town, and 200 m from the closest beach. It is easily accessible by snorkelling straight from the beach as the reef starts right in front of it. Experience swimming in an aquarium, beautiful corals and a great variety of fishes. There is a caretaker who will collect {{PHP|100}} from tourists, but mostly enforced when arriving via tourist boats. Anytime at daylight is good for snorkelling. Current can sometimes be strong. }} * '''[[Culion Island]]''' - the former leper colony. Offers a medical museum and presentation of the old leper colony highlighting the cure of leprosy. Culion Island also offers some beaches and numerous sites for snorkelling and diving, including shipwrecks, accommodation is available. The ferry is operated by Montenegro Shipping and leaves Coron port daily at 6AM, 10AM and 2PM and returns at 8AM, noon and 4PM, duration about 1½ hr. The fare is {{PHP|279}} (Oct 2018). * '''CYC Island''' - is nice but gets very busy. It's the only free beach in the area. Entrance fees for the other beaches aren't too steep ({{PHP|100}}). * {{do | name=Smiths Island | alt=| url=http://corontrip.wordpress.com/2012/04/11/day-2-island-hopping/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small island with white sand beach. A caretaker family stays there during the day, and sells snacks and drinks. Thare are stunning views of white sands and blue seas. The fee to spend some time here is {{PHP|100}} per head. You can reach it while island-hopping on a bangka. It takes 20 minutes sailing from Kayangan lake to reach here. }} * '''Sangat Island''' - Black limestone island with white sand beaches near most of the major World War II wrecks in the area. * '''Malcapuya Island''' - Beautiful island with very fine white sand beach just like Boracay (or better) but without construction. Entrance is {{PHP|150-200}} and is included in tour prices. * '''Banana Island''' - A longer boat trip from town is beautiful Banana Island, with its white sand beaches and numerous Pacific Giant Clams. Local accommodations are recommended as it is far from Coron, but it is available as a tour along with Malcapuya. * '''Bulog Beach''' - Visited as part of a tour along with Banana Island and Malcapuya Beach. It's a very small but stunning beach and you'll likely have it all to yourself. * '''Black Island''' - Another limestone island with white sand beaches far from town. Nearby are tourist attractions '''North Kay''' and '''Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary'''. Local accommodations recommended as it is far from Coron. Black Island, North Kay and Dibutunay can be reached via Ocam-Ocam, in the West of Busuanga. You can connect to local boatmen [https://black-island-coron.com/ here.] * {{do | name=Cheron Island | alt= | url=https://travelblogstories.com/travel-blog/coron-palawan-philippines/#12 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-12-19 | content=Directly opposite Malcapuya Island. It has a plat of white sand, outgoing into the sea. Fee — {{PHP|500}} for 4 persons. }} * {{do | name=Black Island | alt=Malajon Island | url=https://black-island-coron.com/ | email= | address=West of Busuanga | lat= | long= | directions=follow the highway to Ocam Ocam and take a boat from there | phone=+63 975458662 | tollfree= | hours= | price=200 | lastedit=2025-10-09 | content= }} === Diving === Lots of wreck diving and some decent coral as well. Discovery Divers (on the beautiful 'Discovery Island') and Sea Dive are the big ones, and Coron Divers the cheapest one in the island. There are 6 big wrecks and 2 smaller gunboats, all bombed on 24 September 1944 by the Allied Forces, and they are well worth diving on! {{infobox|Wreck diving|Diving ''near'' wrecks is quite safe, provided you keep enough distance not to get tangled on anything. However, if you want to go ''inside'' wrecks, doing that safely requires quite advanced diving skills. If you are only "open water" certified, you should allow time for additional training before you attempt it. Without that, you should very definitely not risk it.}} * {{do | name=Coron Divers | alt= | url=http://corondivers.com.ph | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The only dive center owned by a Filipino. Arni is the big boss. Everything makes you feel in a Filipino family (even more if you stay at Chinette's Coron Reef Pension, 10 m away in front of Coron Divers) Youl find it right beside the Jollybee. It's the only dive outfit in town run by Filipinos and also the cheapest.(4500PHP perDay/ 3dives 2026) }} * {{do | name=Discovery Divers | url=http://www.ddivers.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Tucked away on 'Discovery Island' a 10-minute boat ride from the pier. Talk to Vivian in Coron town at the Discovery Bar or get to the pier around 8AM to catch the boat out. Gunter is a great guy with a lot of experience in the area. }} * {{do | name=Reggae Dive Center | alt=ex Rocksteady | url=http://www.reggaedivecenter.com.ph | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Reggae is professionally run by a friendly and very competent German instructor. Rocksteady is almost a kilometer from the town center, very near the hospital Not a good choice if you want to dive the IRAKO.(6000PHP per Day /3Dives 2026) }} *{{do | name=Neptune Dive Center | url=http://www.neptunedivecenter.com | email=info@neptunedivecenter.com | address= | lat=11.99890 | long=120.20414 | directions= | phone=+63 921-760-7492 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=8AM-7PM | price= | content=Neptune Dive Center is one of the newer dive shops in Coron, but is owned and operated by a team that has been living and diving there for years. Emphasis is on small groups and personal service. Neptune Dive Center is the only purpose built dive shop in Coron. Prices are mid-range compared to the other dive shops in the area. }} *{{do | name=SeaDive | url=http://www.seadiveresort.com {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+63 9209458714 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They have the only recompression chamber in all of Palawan onsite. The biggest dive shop in town, with divemasters who claim to have over 10,000 dives on the Coron wrecks. Priced higher than the other dive shops. Known for crowded boats and high divemaster to diver ratios. }} * {{do | name=Chindonan Island Resort & Divecenter | alt=Chindonan Divecenter | url=http://www.chindonan-diveresort.com/ | email=chindonan@gmail.com | address=Chindonan Island| lat=11.9331 | long=120.0454 | directions=45 min from Coron to Chindonan Island | phone=+63 9477 8538 76 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=In Coron Bay, it is known for its great location towards all shipwrecks. It takes 10-20 min to get to your favorite shipwreck. A dive team there is known for its great service. }} === Other activities === * {{do | name=Coron Freediving | alt= | url=https://coron-freediving.com | email=info.freedivingcoron@gmail.com | address=Unit 3, Palanca-Cayetano Building, Real St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+63 9173082848 | tollfree= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2025-08-08| content=Longest-established freediving center in Palawan with the best in freediving standards from Apnea Total, PADI, and Molchanovs, catering to all levels from beginner to advanced. }} * {{do | name=Kingfisher Park | alt= | url=https://coron-philippines.com/kingfisherpark-coron-firefly-kayaking/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2026-06-06| content=Offering guided mangrove kayak tours ({{PHP|500}}), trekking Mt Lunes Santo and bamboo cooked lunch ({{PHP|500}}), and Starry Starry Night mangrove firefly/plankton cruises ({{PHP|200}}). visit the website for tour booking details. }} * '''Maquinit Hot Spring'''. Offering large pools warmed by the geothermal water spring in the area. The hottest pools cascade into a large pool that empties into the ocean. Beautiful place to hang out in the evening after a long day of activities. (entrance {{PHP|300}}, Mar 2024) Accessible by boat or by tricycle from town. Tricycle is normally {{PHP|700-1000}} (4 passengers) including bringing you back to town after 1–3 hours.(2011) * '''Banol Beach''' Gorgeous white sand beach. Accessible by boat from Coron, about 20 min away, features limestone cliffs going down to this beautiful white sand beach adorned with numerous large Kalachuchi flower trees and tamarind trees. Nipa huts for lunch are located in the shade of the Kalachuchi trees. Entrance {{PHP|100}}. * '''Skeleton Wreck''' is a snorkeling destination near Banol Beach off the coast of Coron Island where there is an old fishing boat wreck. Around it are beautiful corals. Beware of sea urchins. Entrance {{PHP|100}}. * '''Atwayan Beach''' located on the backside of the Skeleton Wreck island near Banol Beach, Atwayan Beach features Nipa huts to have lunch, and a beach volleyball court. Entrance {{PHP|100}}. * '''Beach 91''' is not as good as Banol. Free if you come from Kayangan Lake however seems unmaintained. Beware of jellyfishes. * '''Mt. Tapyas''' hike - If you are staying in the Coron main town, you can walk to the foot of Mt. Tapyas or grab a tricycle for {{PHP|8}} (2011). The hike reportedly is about 700 stairs to the top, the entrance is found at the side of community basketball court. Experience a breathtaking view of the sunset, recommended to start setting out at 4PM. * '''Horseback riding''' * '''Mountain bike tours''' * '''Jungle Treks''' * '''Calauit Wildlife''' An island inhabited by imported African wildlife living in harmony with Palawan wildlife. Safari tours available. (local accommodation is required as it is about a 4-hour boat trip from Coron) * Kawayanan Resort. Relaxing and quiet place to have peace on the sand. Tree house is way better to experience facing the Coron Reef. 6&nbsp;km away from Coron town. 200 m away from Hotsprings * {{do | name=Mermaid-Club | alt= | url=https://mermaid-club.com/ | email=mermaid.club.coron@gmail.com | address=Palanca-Cayetano, Real St, Coron, 5316 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+63 9173082848 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-10-12 | content=You can learn mermaid swimming and diving with the Mermaid-Club. Find their office right within the freediving school on Real Street. }} ==Buy== The Market Pier is home to shops, stalls, slaughter houses, diners, and karaoke. Great for hearing early morning karaoke and picking up supplies. The smell can get pretty bad close to the slaughter houses. *'''Water''' - aquapure can hook you up with large containers of water and you can buy bottles basically anywhere in 500 mL, 1 L and 4 L sizes. *'''Drugstores''' - plentiful. Contrary to what you may hear you can buy sunscreen, Off (bug repellant), shampoo and all that other good drugstore stuff. *'''Cashew nuts''' - A must try when you are in Coron. Better than what you can buy in your local supermarket! ===ATM=== * {{buy | name=Metro Bank | alt= | url= | email= | address=Don Pedro Street Coron town | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24 hour ATM | price= | lastedit=2016-10-13 | content=Accepts Mastercard and Visa cards. }} * {{buy | name=PNB Bank | alt= | url= | email= | address=Don Pedro Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24 hour ATM | price= | lastedit=2016-10-13 | content=Accepts Visa cards. }} ==Eat== There is food available for purchase at Coron Market and numerous bake shops around town. It's also recommended to buy fruits from the town market and have them prepared at the lodge you stay at free of charge (feel generous to provide a tip). Recommended to try local fruits such as mango, watermelon, star apple, jackfruit, coconut, starfruit and cashew fruit but they are all seasonal. * {{eat | name=La Sirenetta | alt= | url=http://palawanplace.blogspot.se/2011/09/la-sineretta.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+63 918 903 7063 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Entrees from {{PHP|150-1400}} | lastedit= | content=Beautiful waterfront restaurant on stilts offering international food with entrees ranging from {{PHP|200-400}}. Recognizable on the water as sculpted mermaids adorn the posts supporting the roof of the open air dining area. (Accessible through alleyway beside Coron Divers and Coron Reef Pension House and also by boat.) }} * {{eat | name=Bistro Coron | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+973 3552 9923 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=Owned by Bruno (who can be seen in the kitchen wearing nothing but a towel and a scowl in the mornings) it is home to French food at prices well above the local average. Entrees go from {{PHP|155-270}} for the most part, mains are more but crab and lobster meals are available for even more. Get the onion soup, the apple pie, the coq au vin, the basquaise, the salade niçoise, the cordon bleu. San Miguel will set you back about {{PHP|50}}. The good pizza would be excellent if the cheese was better. Clearly coasting due to their Lonely Planet mention, service is slow, staff are rude and the place is full of only foreigners. }} * {{eat | name=Trining Bacsa | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=Locally owned and operated restaurant located around the corner from Coron Market. Offers authentic Filipino cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=KokosNuss Resort | alt= | url=http://www.kokosnuss.info/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+63 919 448 7879 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=has a good kitchen. They have a Palawan style all you can eat BBQ deal. 6 or more people required at {{PHP|475}} each. They also have a Christmas feast on Dec 24 which is the BBQ and definitely worth going to if you are around (tell them in advance if you are going). San Miguel is {{PHP|32}}. Breakfasts are good as well. }} * {{eat | name=Singapore Restaurant & Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Located in the Sea Breeze Lodge | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price={{PHP|140}} dinner specials | lastedit= | content=Has Singaporean and Asian food at reasonable prices. }} *{{eat | name=SeaDive Resort | url=http://seadiveresort.com/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+63 917 808 6697 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Continental variety of food. Situated Over the water, seafront view. Offers inexpensive seafood and a nightly special. Entrees from {{PHP|150-400}}. }} * {{eat | name=Trattoria Altrov’é - Coron Italian Restaurant and Pizza Place | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=Serves wood-fired pizza, pasta and tasty appetizers. }} * {{eat | name=WG Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+63 920 580 6676 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-11-15 | content=The owner William gives free tourist advice with your meal, and is extremely helpful and friendly. You'll get local prices if he is helping you. He also has accommodation. }} ==Drink== * '''Bistro''' - you can also drink and play billiards at this amazing eatery. * '''Discovery Bar''' - chill on the beautiful balcony over the water and overlooking the bay. Relaxing atmosphere complete with hammock. Great place to get your dive theory out of the way at. One billiard table. * '''Ottos''' - rock out to some AC/DC and enjoy spying on the hustle and bustle of Coron's main street. * '''The Old House''' - happy hour 5PM-7PM all-you-can-drink rum and Coke for {{PHP|50}}. Beer comes with a koozie. Nice view of Coron's main street from the balcony. It is also a good place to just watch the world go by from the outside seating. One of the best prices you will find outside of the local liquor stores. Laid back atmosphere, interesting clientelle, and warm staff. * '''Helldiver's Bar'''" (SeaDive Resort) - their signature drinks are great for the adventurous drinker, all for reasonable prices. They have a billiard table and relaxing music beat. You can ask for free popcorn at the bar. *'''Kuweba''' - on the national highway, near Angel motorcycles is hidden a bar run by some Rastafarian locals, they play their own music and sell hand made jewelry and carvings upstairs. ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|up to {{PHP|500}}|{{PHP|500-2000}}|more than {{PHP|2000}}}} === Budget === * You can '''camp''' on some of the (somewhat) deserted islands. Ask around. Gunter at Discovery seems to know of a couple good spots. Getting onto the islands might not be so cheap though. * {{sleep|name=Happy Camper Hostel|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=11.9991|long=120.2091|directions=one block south from the main road before entering the main part of town|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price={{PHP|350}} for the dorms|lastedit=2017-08-10|content=A clean hostel with bright rooms and a happy owner. There are lockers, free WiFi, free breakfast, tea, and coffee. The beds have individual fans. A camping site is under construction. You might already pitch a tent there for a symbolic contribution.}} * {{sleep | name=Marley's Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=on main road near center | phone=+63 9295391133 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=from {{PHP|400}} per person | lastedit=2016-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep|name=Sea Dive Resort|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=fan rooms from {{PHP|400}}, A/C rooms from {{PHP|1100}}|lastedit=2017-08-10|content=On the water overlooking bay. With 32 rooms, dive shop, restaurant and bar. Fan rooms are basic but spacious with a double bed. There is a generator for brown outs. Be careful: Quite often Sea Dive will book a cheaper room only to have the more expensive room when you arrive.}} * {{sleep|name=Sunnytimes Penson|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=on the main road opposite the Manneken Pis Cafe|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price={{PHP|250}}|content=Basically a very nice local woman has opened the upper floor of her house out to backpackers. Basic but very clean and comfortable 2-bed "dorm" fan rooms. Towels are provided. Showers are cold water only, bucket and ladle, and there is no generator.}} * {{sleep | name=Apo Pension House | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=from the port, follow the main road towards the city. After {{m|500}}, you can see their entrance sign to your left (bay-side) | phone=+63 915 8466123 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price={{PHP|500}} double fan with shared bathroom, {{PHP|850}} double aircon w/o window, {{PHP|950}} double aircon with window | lastedit=2018-10-01 | content=Basic but clean & comfy double bedrooms. Thin walls can make noise from bordering rooms apparent. Towels are provided. Showers are cold water, free hot & cold drinking water is provided in their main hall. }} === Mid-range === * {{sleep | name=Amphibi-Ko Resort | url=http://www.amphibikoresortcoron.com | email= | address=Brgy. 5, Bancuang, Coron, Palawan | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price={{PHP|1350}} | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | content=Amphibi-Ko Resort Lodge offers budget accommodation and island tours in Coron. The lodge has clean rooms with cozy ambience and has an in-house restaurant that serves Japanese cuisines. |alt=}} * {{sleep | name=Coron Ecolodge | alt= | url=http://www.coronecolodge.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Located in a quiet area near the town center, near stores, banks, restaurants and bars. Offers 22 air-conditioned rooms with en suite hot and cold shower and cable-ready TV for around {{PHP|1598}}, twin sharing. Wi-Fi Internet available at reception area and dining lounge. Also offers tour packages }} * {{sleep | name=Coron Reef Pension | alt= | url=http://coronreefpensionhouse.com/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+63 9198877151 and +63 9194501606 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A few steps from Coron Divers. Aircon rooms for 2 pax with toilet and bath seaside {{PHP|900}}, other rooms {{PHP|600}}, {{PHP|100}} for an extra bed. You might get a single for {{PHP|300}} if they're not full. }} * {{sleep | name=Coron Village Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.coronvillagelodge.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=Twin {{PHP|950}}, triple {{PHP|1200}}, deluxe room {{PHP|1300}}, extra bed {{PHP|200}} | checkin= | checkout= | content=All rooms can accommodate one extra bed. They are all air-conditioned, with hot and cold shower, TV, private toilet and bath. }} *{{sleep | name=First Oriental Lodging | url=http://www.firstorientalcoron.com {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Brgy. Don Pedro St., Poblacion 3 | lat= | long= | directions=in front of Coron Tourism Centre near Mt. Tapyas Point and Maquinit Springs. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price={{PHP|1127}} | checkin= | checkout= | content=Aircon and fan rooms for travellers on a budget. All rooms are equipped with basic hotel amenities. |alt=}} *{{sleep | name=Kaba-Kaba | alt= | url=http://kaba-kaba.com/ | email=info@kaba-kaba.com | address=Dipulao, Busuanga | lat= | long= | directions=3 km by trike from Coron Town | phone=+63 926 716 8897 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=from {{PHP|700}} | content=A small place in the rainforest a short trike ride from Coron Town proper. Two cottages available, meals by prior arrangement. Grace and Kevin are very friendly and can advise on the many local attractions. }} *{{sleep | name=KokosNuss Resort | alt= | url=http://www.kokosnuss.info/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Outside of town a 10-minute walk up the main road. The rooms all surround a beautiful garden great for lounging around on less adventurous days. Double is {{PHP|600}}. The staff can help you arrange things to do around the island but it may be cheaper to arrange elsewhere. }} *{{sleep | name=Krystal Lodge | url=http://www.krystalcoron.com {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=pretty_kryz23@yahoo.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+63 915-1398939 (Nini), +63 946-8381488 (Abegiel) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Single rooms from {{PHP|400}}. Other rooms from {{PHP|600}}. Cottages starts from {{PHP|1000}} (2pax) depending on number of people, {{PHP|250}} additional person. | checkin= | checkout= | content=A humble lodge over the water in the mangrove area of Coron Town. It has 8 cottages in total and 10 rooms. They offer breakfast & drinks only. |alt=}} *'''Kubo Sa Dagat''', translated "hut on the sea" is a 30 min boat ride out of town and offers cottages on stilts in the middle of the bay of Malbato. (only accessible by boat) *{{sleep | name=Patrik & Tezz Guesthouse | url=http://www.coron.ph | email= | address=Coastalroad, bgy 5 | lat=11.999156 | long=120.201336 | directions= | phone=+63 9279531407 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Double {{PHP|550}}, twin {{PHP|450}} | checkin= | checkout= | content=Swedish managed guesthouse, 3 min walking distance from town proper, located on the water. Shared bathrooms with hot shower, living room with fridge, TV, and WiFi. Motorbike rental - {{PHP|400}}/24hrs, Island hopping with boat. |alt=}} *{{sleep | name=R n R Hotel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+63 9287609453 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price={{PHP|1500}} | checkin= | checkout= | content=Near the town proper. It's a basic clean hotel with shower/AC/without AC room. Free Karaoke/TV. Another option if other hotels are full. They will offer for travel package but you can still bargain. Rent a boat for {{PHP|1500}} a day and you can go to different islands for a lower price instead of per head ({{PHP|1000}}). |alt=}} *{{sleep | name=Villa Hermosa Bed and Breakfast | url=http://www.villahermosacoron.com | email= | address=San Agustin St. Brgy 2 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price={{PHP|650}} | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | content=In the heart of Coron. Continental or Filipino breakfasts are served. |alt=}} * {{sleep | name=Balaibinda Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.balaibinda.com | email=balaibinda@yahoo.com | address=22 Don Pedro Street, Barangay 3 | lat=11.99784 | long=120.2033 | directions= | phone=+63 9293221776 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=₱1,300-₱4,200/night with breakfast | lastedit=2022-09-09 | content=An 18-room inland hotel. All rooms are non-smoking. No parking space. It has 3 floors and 3 areas, the courtyard, roofdeck, and roadside. Offers island tours and land transfers to and from the airport and seaport. Has free Wi-Fi and observes health standards in preventing COVID-19 spread. }} === Splurge === * {{sleep | name=Coron Hilltop View Resort | url=http://www.coronhilltopresort.com | email= | address=Brgy. Poblacion 6, Sitio Dipulao | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price={{PHP|4000}} | checkin=2PM | checkout= | content=Coron Hilltop View Resort offers fully-air conditioned Deluxe Villas. Avail of the resort's tour packages for island hopping and scuba diving. Restaurant provides Asian cuisine and authentic Filipino food. |alt=}} * {{sleep | name=GMG Hotel Coron | url=http://www.gmghotelcoron.com {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=National Highway, Cor. Don Pedro St. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price={{PHP|2550}} | checkin=1PM | checkout=11AM | content=In the town proper. The hotel has a swimming pool and offers scuba diving and island hopping packages. |alt=}} *{{sleep | name=Nici Island | url=http://niciisland.stalwart.it {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Private island with a private beach including a sand bar, swimming pool, tennis court and cook a few minutes from historic WW2 shipwrecks diving sites. }} ==Stay safe== Viewing wrecks from outside is safe for more-or-less any diver. Some may require extra caution to avoid getting tangled in rigging, but most wrecks are no more dangerous to visit than a coral reef. '''Going inside a wreck is dangerous'''. Do not even consider it without specialized training, e.g. PADI [https://www.padi.com/courses/wreck-diver wreck diver] certification. You may also need extra equipment such as lights and guide ropes. ==Connect== Many restaurants, bars, and hotels offer free WiFi (backed by mobile data.) However, the entire town seems to share a single uplink to the internet that is constantly overloaded. So no matter where you connect from, you can probably not do much more than check your messages. The connection is however very reasonable at night between about 1am and 7am when you do not have to share the connection with that many users. *{{do | name=Calamian Planet Online | url=http://corongaleri.com.ph | email= | address=BGY. POB. 3 | lat= | long= | directions=in the center | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=8AM to 9PM | price= {{PHP|30}} | content=An Internet cafe where you may check your mail and print document, pictures & other. }} ==Go next== Go to the incredibly beautiful [[El Nido]]! 'Tourist' banka boats (Jessabel, Overcomer and Princess Wellia) have scheduled trips that leave every day of the week at about 8AM for {{PHP|1200-1400}} peso one way. The trip takes roughly 8 hours and includes a local style meal (fried chicken, chicken adobo, rice, etc.) You can buy the tickets pretty much anywhere in town- you'll see signs up everywhere advertising them. The boats pick up and drop off at Seadive Resort. You can wait for your departure in the Seadive restaurant, free coffee and tea is provided. The sea can be rough in the Linapacan strait. The luggage is stowed either in the hull of the boat or on the roof of the cabin if they run out of room. To be safe, package important items in plastic to keep them dry. {{isPartOf|Calamian Islands}} {{usablecity}} {{geo|12|120.2}} 84p4ojmlb0r1i80i33fvwmqd0dccugo 0 8368 5288921 5250112 2026-06-06T17:37:01Z AlasdairW 1812 /* Do */ link to our article on Cotswold Way 5288921 wikitext text/x-wiki {{about|the area in England|the area of North Carolina|Charlotte/Cotswold}} {{pagebanner|Cotswold banner Lavender farm.jpg|A Cotswold lavender farm}} The '''Cotswolds''' are a range of rolling hills spread over parts of south-west and south central [[England]]. Designated an '''Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty''' in 1966, it has unique features derived from the local golden-coloured limestone known as Cotswold stone. The predominantly rural landscape containing stone-built villages, historical towns, and stately homes and gardens, is known worldwide. Many consider the Cotswolds as representative of the archetypal English landscape. The area is roughly {{mi|25}} across and {{mi|90}} long, stretching south-west from just below [[Stratford-upon-Avon]] to just beyond [[Bath]]. It is within easy reach of [[London]] and several other English urban centres. The Cotswolds lie across the boundaries of several English counties; mainly [[Gloucestershire]] and [[Oxfordshire]], but also parts of [[Wiltshire]], [[Somerset (England)|Somerset]], [[Worcestershire]] and [[Warwickshire]]. The highest point of the region is Cleeve Hill at {{ft|1,083}}, just to the north of [[Cheltenham]]. ==Cities, towns and villages== {{Mapframe|51.83|-1.86|zoom=9}} ===Cities=== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bath]]|lat=|long=|wikidata=Q22889}} – world-famous Roman and Baroque spa town constructed out of Cotswold stone *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Gloucester (England)|Gloucester]]|lat=51.87|long=-2.24|wikidata=Q170497}} – known for its Gothic cathedral where the boy king Henry III was crowned *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Oxford]]|lat=51.75|long=-1.25|wikidata=Q34217}} – the vibrant and ancient City of Dreaming Spires ===Towns=== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Burford]]|lat=51.808|long=-1.637|wikidata=Q2019274}} – a gateway to the Cotswolds from the east, best known for its wildlife park *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Cheltenham]]|lat=51.883333|long=-2.066667|wikidata=Q206988}} – elegant spa town with many events throughout the year including literature and jazz festivals, and the equestrian Gold Cup. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chippenham]]|wikidata=Q775299}} – market town from where several south Cotswold villages can be accessed *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chipping Campden]]|lat=52.052|long=-1.779|wikidata=Q767811}} – a town with several interesting large houses and gardens *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chipping Norton]]|lat=51.94|long=-1.55|wikidata=Q1065474}} – a friendly Oxfordshire market town with access to Blenheim Palace and the Rollright Stones. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Cirencester]]|lat=51.719|long=-1.968|wikidata=Q852772}} – Roman heritage and a bustling Saturday market *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Cricklade]]|lat=51.641|long=-1.856|wikidata=Q533456}} – 9th-century Saxon town close to the source of the River Thames *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Fairford]]|lat=51.708|long=-1.785|wikidata=Q662878}} – known for its wool and nearby RAF airfield and airshow *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Malmesbury]]|wikidata=Q570153}} – town known for its historic abbey, one of the few English houses with a continual history from the 7th century through to the Dissolution of the Monasteries *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Moreton-in-Marsh]]|lat=51.988|long=-1.701|wikidata=Q734743}} – yet another pretty town with access to gardens such as Batsford Arboretum *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Stow-on-the-Wold]]|lat=51.928|long=-1.718|wikidata=Q1026648}} – cute cottages, a quaint market square and a "magical door": Stow is selfie central for Instagrammers and Weiboers alike. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Stroud]]|lat=51.744|long=-2.215|wikidata=Q281749}} – a smaller town with a rich industrial heritage based around textile mills which were placed to take advantage of both the local Cotswold sheep and the rivers which run through the five valleys and converge in Stroud. Sometimes considered alternative and nicknamed 'Notting Hill in wellies'. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tetbury]]|lat=51.636|long=-2.158|wikidata=Q1248924}} – Charles III's Highgrove House and the fabulous Westonbirt Arboretum *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Winchcombe]]|lat=51.957205|long=-1.969204|wikidata=Q1234937}} – home to Sudeley Castle and Hailes Abbey *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Witney]]|lat=51.78|long=-1.49|wikidata=Q990166}} – market town near Oxford, known historically for its woollen blankets ===Villages=== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bourton-on-the-Water]]|lat=51.886|long=-1.759|wikidata=Q895264}} – attractive riverside village known for having a model village of itself *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Broadway (England)|Broadway]]|lat=52.04|long=-1.86|wikidata=Q180356}} – country retreat of Victorian designer William Morris; a good base for hiking, including up to Broadway Tower *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Castle Combe]]|url=|lat=51.493|long=-2.229|wikidata=Q1049415}} – this pretty village has no castle, but it does have a motor racing circuit! *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chedworth]]|lat=51.80640|long=-1.92580|wikidata=Q1068818}} – Chedworth Roman villa is a ruin, but does have some impressive 4th-century mosaics ==Understand== ===History=== During the Middle Ages, the Cotswolds became prosperous from the wool trade with the Continent. Much of this wealth was directed towards the building of churches, the area still preserving a large number of large, handsome Cotswold Stone "wool churches". The area remains affluent and has attracted wealthy Londoners and others who own second homes in the area or have chosen to retire to the Cotswolds. Typical Cotswold towns are [[Broadway (England)|Broadway]], [[Burford]], [[Chipping Norton]], [[Cirencester]], [[Moreton-in-Marsh]] and [[Stow-on-the-Wold]]. The Cotswold town of [[Chipping Campden]] is notable for being the home of the Arts and Crafts movement, founded by William Morris at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries. William Morris lived, occasionally, in Broadway Tower a folly now in country park. ===Geography=== [[File:Broadway Tower, Worcestershire.jpg|thumb|400x400px|[[Broadway (England)|Broadway Tower]]]] The Cotswolds run generally south-west to north-east, the northern and western edges marked by steep escarpments down to the valleys of the rivers Severn and Avon and the city of [[Gloucester (England)|Gloucester]], the eastern boundary by the city of [[Oxford]] (the university "city of dreaming spires"), the west by [[Stroud]], and the south by the middle reaches of the Thames Valley and towns such as [[Cirencester]], [[Lechlade]] and [[Fairford]]. Key physical features of the area, including the characteristic uplift of the 'Cotswold Edge' can be clearly seen as far south as [[Bath (England)|Bath]]. The Cotswolds are characterised by attractive small towns and villages built of the underlying rock, known as "Cotswold Stone" (actually, a yellow oolitic limestone). ===Visitor information === * [http://www.cotswolds.com/ Cotswolds visitor information] website ==Talk== Due to the regional spread of the Cotswolds you will hear many different accents. Predominantly though, as most of the Cotswolds lies in the county of Gloucestershire, you may find locals speak with a heavy ''Gloucestershire accent''. The area has attracted the Royals and various celebrities, which together with the beauty of the area in general, has attracted residents originating from London and the South East, so this too diversifies the accents you may hear. ==Get in== === By plane === There are several major airports within easy reach of the Cotswolds: * '''[[Heathrow Airport|London Heathrow Airport]] ('''{{IATA|LHR}}''')''' is one of the world's largest international airports, with flights from destinations throughout the [[United Kingdom|UK]], [[Europe]], [[Africa]], [[Asia]], and [[North America|North]] and [[South America]]. By road, Heathrow Airport is around {{Mile|50}} from [[Oxford]] (using {{European road|UK|M|25}} and {{European road|UK|M|40}}) or {{Mile|100}} from [[Bath]] (using {{European road|UK|M|4}}). Several coaches link Heathrow Airport with destinations in the Cotswolds, including: [https://www.theairlineoxford.co.uk/ The Airline]/[https://www.nationalexpress.com/ National Express 210] to Oxford, [https://www.nationalexpress.com/ National Express 403] to Bath, and [https://www.nationalexpress.com/ National Express 444] to [[Cirencester]], [[Cheltenham]] and [[Gloucester (England)|Gloucester]]. By train, use Elizabeth line or Heathrow Express to [[London/Paddington-Maida Vale|Paddington]] and change for Great Western Railway services into the Cotswolds. * '''[[London Gatwick Airport]] ({{IATA|LGW}})''' is a major international airport, with flights from a great many destinations in Europe and further afield, including Asia and North America. [https://www.theairlineoxford.co.uk/ The Airline] and [https://www.nationalexpress.com/ National Express 210] link Gatwick Airport with the Cotswolds. * '''Bristol Airport ({{IATA|BRS}})''' is a major international airport with flights from UK and European destinations, around {{Mile|18}} from Bath by road. Bus route [https://www.bristolairport.co.uk/to-and-from-the-airport/by-bus-and-coach/ A4 Air Decker] is a direct connection between the terminal building with Bath city centre. * '''Birmingham Airport ({{IATA|BHX}})''' is a major international airport with flights from destinations throughout Europe and the Middle East, around {{Mile|65}} from Oxford by road (using {{European road|UK|M|42}} and {{European road|UK|M|40}}). Coach route [https://www.nationalexpress.com/ National Express 210] links Birmingham Airport with Oxford city centre. [https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/ CrossCountry] trains operate a direct service between Birmingham International and Oxford. === By train === Some Cotswold cities, towns and villages have excellent railway connections, with regular trains from major destinations throughout Great Britain. '''From [[London Paddington]]''', use [https://www.gwr.com/ Great Western Railway] trains to: [[Oxford]], Hanborough, Combe, Finstock, Charlbury, Ascott-under-Wychwood, Shipton, Kingham, [[Moreton-in-Marsh]], Honeybourne, [[Kemble]] (near [[Cirencester]]), [[Stroud]], Stonehouse, [[Gloucester (England)|Gloucester]], [[Cheltenham|Cheltenham Spa]], [[Bath|Bath Spa]], [[Chippenham]]. '''From [[London Marylebone]]''', use [https://www.chilternrailways.co.uk/ Chiltern Railways] trains to Oxford and Oxford Parkway. '''From [[Hereford]] and [[Worcester (England)|Worcester]]''', use [https://www.gwr.com/ Great Western Railway] trains to: Honeybourne, Moreton-in-Marsh, Kingham, Shipton, Ascott-under-Wychwood, Charlbury, Finstock, Combe, Hanborough, Oxford, Cheltenham Spa and Gloucester. '''From [[Bristol]]''', use [https://www.gwr.com/ Great Western Railway] trains to: Oldfield Park (Bath), Bath Spa, Freshford, Avoncliff, [[Bradford on Avon]], Chippenham, Gloucester and Cheltenham Spa. There are direct long-distance trains to: * '''Bath Spa''' - [https://www.gwr.com/ Great Western Railway] services from [[Penzance]], [[Plymouth (England)|Plymouth]], [[Exeter|Exeter St Davids]], [[Weston-super-Mare]], Frome, [[Cardiff|Cardiff Central]], [[Newport (Monmouthshire)|Newport]], Bristol Temple Meads, Trowbridge, Weymouth, Salisbury, Southampton Central and Portsmouth. * '''Cheltenham Spa and Gloucester''' - [https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/ CrossCountry], [https://www.gwr.com/ Great Western Railway] and [https://tfw.wales/ Transport for Wales (TfW)] services from Weymouth, Penzance, Plymouth, Exeter St Davids, Bristol Temple Meads, [[Bridgend]], Cardiff Central, Newport, [[Lydney]] ([[Forest of Dean]]), Worcester, [[Birmingham|Birmingham New Street]], [[Derby]], [[Nottingham]], [[Sheffield]], [[Leeds]], [[York]], [[Durham (England)|Durham]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne]] and [[Edinburgh]]. * '''Oxford''' - [https://www.chilternrailways.co.uk/ Chiltern Railways], [https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/ CrossCountry] and [https://www.gwr.com/ Great Western Railway] services from [[Bournemouth]], [[Southampton|Southampton Central]], [[Reading (England)|Reading]], Worcester, Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street, [[Manchester Piccadilly]] and [[High Wycombe]]. From further afield, passengers to Hanborough, Combe, Finstock, Charlbury, Ascott-under-Wychwood, Shipton, Kingham, Moreton-in-Marsh and Honeybourne should change at either '''[[Reading (England)|Reading]]''', '''Oxford''', '''Worcestershire Parkway''' or '''Worcester'''. Passengers to Kemble, Stroud or Stonehouse should change at '''Swindon''', '''Gloucester''' or '''Cheltenham'''. Passengers must buy a ticket before they travel. Some stations in the Cotswolds are unstaffed, with few public transport options for onward travel. You can plan your journey online and buy tickets using a reputable website, like [https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/ National Rail] or [https://www.thetrainline.com/ The Trainline]. === By coach === There are several '''[https://www.nationalexpress.com/ National Express]''' coach routes into the Cotswolds, including: * '''160''' into [[Oxford]] from [[Bournemouth]], [[Southampton]] and [[Birmingham|Birmingham Coach Station]] * '''210''' into Oxford from [[London Gatwick Airport]], [[London Heathrow Airport]], [[Wolverhampton]], Birmingham Coach Station and Birmingham Airport * '''403''' into [[Chippenham]] and [[Bath]] from [[London Victoria|London Victoria Coach Station]] and London Heathrow Airport * '''444''' into [[Cirencester]], [[Cheltenham]] and [[Gloucester (England)|Gloucester]] from London Victoria Coach Station and London Heathrow Airport * '''445''' into Cheltenham and Gloucester from London Victoria Coach Station and [[Hereford]] * '''737''' into Oxford from [[London Stansted Airport]], [[Old Harlow|Harlow]], [[Hertford]], [[Luton Airport]], [[Luton]] and [[Milton Keynes|Milton Keynes Coachway]] The '''[https://www.oxfordtube.com/ Oxford Tube]''' connects London Victoria Coach Station, [[London/Mayfair-Marylebone|Marble Arch]], [[London Marylebone|Baker Street]], [[London/Notting Hill-North Kensington|Notting Hill Gate]], [[London/Hammersmith and Fulham|Shepherd's Bush]], [[London/Hammersmith and Fulham|White City]] and [[London/West|Hillingdon]] (all London) with Oxford. Some services continue to [[Witney]], Minster Lovell and Carterton. '''[https://www.theairlineoxford.co.uk/ The Airline]''' connects London Gatwick Airport and London Heathrow Airport with Oxford. Major bus routes into the Cotswolds include: * '''[https://www.stagecoachbus.com/ Stagecoach 1/2]''' into [[Moreton-in-Marsh]] from [[Stratford-upon-Avon]] * '''[https://www.firstbus.co.uk/bristol-bath-and-west First D1]''' into [[Bradford on Avon]] and Bath from [[Warminster]] and [[Trowbridge]] * '''[https://www.stagecoachbus.com/ Stagecoach S1]''' between Carterton, Witney and Oxford * '''[https://www.stagecoachbus.com/ Stagecoach S2]''' between Cheltenham, [[Burford]], Witney and Oxford * '''[https://www.stagecoachbus.com/ Stagecoach S3]''' between [[Chipping Norton]] and Oxford * '''[https://www.airdecker.com/ Air Decker A4]''' into Bath from Bristol Airport * '''[https://www.firstbus.co.uk/bristol-bath-and-west First 19]''' into Bath from [[Bristol|Bristol Parkway]] * '''[https://www.firstbus.co.uk/bristol-bath-and-west First 39/X39]''' into Bath from Bristol Bus Station * '''[https://www.stagecoachbus.com/ Stagecoach 50]''' into Chipping Norton from Stratford-upon-Avon and Shipston-on-Stour * '''[https://www.stagecoachbus.com/ Stagecoach 51]''' into Cirencester and Cheltenham from [[Swindon]] * '''[https://www.stagecoachbus.com/ Stagecoach 55]''' into Chippenham from Swindon * '''[https://www.stagecoachbus.com/ Stagecoach 64]''' between Gloucester and [[Stroud]] === By road === The Cotswolds is a large area, so journey planning is essential before you set off. There are several motorways and major routes into the landscape. '''The''' {{European road|UK|M|4}} passes through the southern Cotswolds, near [[Chippenham]] and [[Bath]]. The route is a direct connection from [[London]], [[London Heathrow Airport]], [[Reading (England)|Reading]], [[Swindon]], [[Bristol]], [[Newport (Monmouthshire)|Newport]], [[Cardiff]], [[Bridgend]], [[Swansea]] and [[South Wales|West Wales]]. For The Cotswolds, exit at: * [[File:Junction 13.svg|alt=13|30x30px]] {{European road|UK|A|34}} for [[Oxford]] * [[File:Junction 15.svg|alt=15|30x30px]] {{European road|UK|A|419}} for [[Cirencester]], [[Stroud]], [[Gloucester (England)|Gloucester]] and [[Cheltenham]], and {{European road|UK|A|420}} for Oxford * [[File:Junction 17.svg|alt=17|30x30px]] {{European road|UK|A|350}} for [[Chippenham]], and {{European road|UK|A|429}} for Cirencester, [[Bourton-on-the-Water]] and [[Stow-on-the-Wold]] * [[File:Junction 18.svg|alt=18|30x30px]] {{European road|UK|A|46}} for Bath, Stroud and Cheltenham '''The''' {{European road|UK|M|5}} runs along western edge of the Cotswold Hills, between the national landscape and the River Severn. The route is a direct connection from [[Birmingham]], [[Worcester (England)|Worcester]], [[Bristol]], [[Weston-super-Mare]] and [[Devon]]. For The Cotswolds, exit at: * [[File:Junction 6.svg|alt=6|30x30px]] {{European road|UK|A|4538}} for {{European road|UK|A|44}} to [[Moreton-in-Marsh]] and [[Chipping Norton]] * [[File:Junction 10.svg|alt=10|30x30px]] {{European road|UK|A|4019}} for Cheltenham * [[File:Junction 11.svg|alt=11|30x30px]] {{European road|UK|A|40}} for Gloucester, Cheltenham, [[Burford]] and Oxford * [[File:Junction 11a.svg|alt=11a|30x30px]] {{European road|UK|A|417}} for Gloucester, Cirencester and Oxford (via {{European road|UK|A|40}}) * [[File:Junction 12.svg|alt=12|30x30px]] {{European road|UK|A|38}} for Gloucester, and '''B4008''' for [[Stonehouse]] and Stroud * [[File:Junction 13.svg|alt=13|30x30px]] {{European road|UK|A|419}} for Stonehouse, Stroud and Cirencester '''The''' {{European road|UK|M|40}} passes the eastern edge of the Cotswold Hills, between London, the [[Chiltern Hills]], [[Warwick (England)|Warwick]] and Birmingham. For The Cotswolds, exit at: * [[File:Junction 8.svg|alt=8|30x30px]] {{European road|UK|A|40}} for Oxford and Cheltenham * [[File:Junction 9.svg|alt=9|30x30px]] {{European road|UK|A|34}} for Oxford * [[File:Junction 11.svg|alt=11|30x30px]] {{European road|UK|A|422}} for {{European road|UK|A|361}} to Chipping Norton and Burford * [[File:Junction 15.svg|alt=15|30x30px]] {{European road|UK|A|429}} for Moreton-in-Marsh, Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water and Cirencester Other major routes into the Cotswolds include: * {{European road|UK|A|4}} '''into Chippenham and Bath''' from the North Wessex Downs, [[Marlborough (England)|Marlborough]] and Bristol * '''{{European road|UK|A|36}} into Bath''' from [[Southampton]], [[Salisbury (England)|Salisbury]] and [[Warminster]] * {{European road|UK|A|38}} '''into Gloucester and Cheltenham''' from Bristol and [[Tewkesbury]] * {{European road|UK|A|39}} '''into Bath''' from [[Glastonbury]], [[Wells]] and the [[Mendips|Mendip Hills]] * {{European road|UK|A|40}} '''into Oxford, Witney, Burford, Cheltenham and Gloucester''' from London, [[High Wycombe]], [[Ross-on-Wye]], the Wye Valley National Landscape and the [[Brecon Beacons National Park]] * {{European road|UK|A|44}} '''into Moreton-in-Marsh, Chipping Norton and Oxford''' from [[Mid Wales]], Worcester and [[Evesham]] * '''{{European road|UK|A|46}} into Bath, Stroud and Cheltenham''' from [[Stratford-upon-Avon]] and Evesham * {{European road|UK|A|350}} '''into Chippenham''' from [[Poole]], [[Shaftesbury]] and [[Warminster]] * {{European road|UK|A|361}} '''into Burford and Chipping Norton''' from Swindon, [[Banbury]] and [[Daventry]] * '''{{European road|UK|A|417}} into Cirencester and Gloucester''' from Reading, [[Wantage]] and [[Ledbury]] * '''{{European road|UK|A|419}} into Cirencester and Stroud''' from Swindon * '''{{European road|UK|A|429}} into Cirencester, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, Moreton-in-Marsh''' from [[Leamington Spa]] and [[Warwick (England)|Warwick]] * {{European road|UK|A|3400}} '''into Chipping Norton''' from Stratford-upon-Avon * {{European road|UK|A|4095}} '''into Witney''' from [[Bicester]] (including Bicester Village shopping) There are petrol stations in all major towns and cities, and in some villages. Many petrol stations, particularly supermarket petrol stations with pay-at-pump facilities, are open 24/7. Some roadside petrol stations - on most major A-routes - are also open 24/7 but may charge a premium. ==Get around== Trains exist between some main towns, but the line from Cirencester was axed 30 years ago. The key lines are: *[[Bristol]] Temple Meads–Filton Abbey Wood–Bristol Parkway–Yate–Cam & Dursley–[[Gloucester (England)|Gloucester]]–[[Cheltenham]] Spa–Ashchurch for [[Tewkesbury]]–[[Worcester (England)|Worcester]] Shrub Hill–Worcester Foregate Street *[[Swindon]]–[[Chippenham]]–[[Bath]] Spa–[[Bristol]] Temple Meads *[[Swindon]]–Kemble–[[Stroud]]–[[Stonehouse]]–[[Gloucester (England)|Gloucester]] *[[Oxford]]–Hanborough–Charlbury–Kingham–[[Moreton-in-Marsh]]–Honeybourne–[[Evesham]]–Pershore–[[Worcester (England)|Worcester]] Shrub Hill—Worcester Foregate Street ===By car=== As Bill Bryson said, this is the only option to see the Cotswolds. He was probably right. It's great walking country though - gentle hillsides not mountains. Note: Take care of the cows on commons (they stand/lie on the roads at night). ===By bus=== The bus services in the Cotswolds are very limited, although the first time visitor might have some luck exploring the Fosse Way by bus - a Roman road connecting Moreton in Marsh and various market towns to Cirencester. Research is definitely needed. Many villages only get one bus a day, or some only one bus a ''week''. Even larger towns, such as Cirencester and Stroud, only get one bus every hour. ===By cycle=== The Cotswolds are hilly but there are well-marked cycle routes on quiet roads. ===By foot=== Perhaps Bill Bryson was wrong - there are lovely walks throughout all the Cotswolds, taking from a couple of hours for a gentle stroll between villages to a week or more on a walking tour. Local companies offer guided and self-guided walks and tours which explore the rich history of the area. The '''[https://www.nationaltrail.co.uk/en_GB/trails/cotswold-way/ Cotswold Way]''' is a 102-mile long-distance walk, designated as an official National Trail in 1998, running from [[Chipping Campden]] to [[Bath]]. ==See== [[Image:Bibury_Arlington_row.jpg|thumb|350px|The Arlington Row cottages in Bibury]] The Cotswolds attract people with a visual appeal derived from a long history and the charm of hundreds of honey-coloured stone villages spread over an area approximately 100&nbsp;mi (160&nbsp;km) north to south and 50&nbsp;mi east to west. While lacking a single large attraction or theme park, it is a wealthy area that nevertheless retains something of the appeal of a working environment. For visitors, the area is particularly well known for historic gardens, pubs and inns, farm and outdoor attractions and retail – especially book and [[antiques shopping|antique shops]]. There is a thriving arts and crafts scene, drawing on a legacy that includes William Morris and extends to new artists at work in hotspots such as the Stroud Valleys. * Gardens, historic houses and farm attractions. There is a listing at the [http://www.cotswolds.com/ local tourist board website]. * Roman villa ruins near [[Chedworth]] * [http://www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk/ Cotswold wildlife park] ===Historical houses=== The Cotswolds are home to a number of important historical houses, often set in their own estates and therefore not part of a particular town or village. The [http://www.cotswolds.com/ local tourist board] provides information on houses open to the public, which include Snowshill Manor, Chavanage, William Morris's house at Kelmscott, Sudeley Castle and Berkeley Castle. Some houses are closed but provide the setting for nationally important gardens such as Hidcote Manor, Painswick Rococo or Abbey House Gardens. * Chastleton House, Chastleton, near [[Moreton-in-Marsh]] ==Do== * Walk some or all of the '''[[Cotswold Way]]'''. Beautiful views over the Cotswold edge the entire {{mile|100}} way. *{{do | name=Cotswold Water Park | url=http://www.waterpark.org | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great Britain's largest water park, consisting of 133 lakes which were formed by filling old gravel quarries. It is about five miles south of [[Cirencester]] and offers many water sports and activities, including dragon boat racing. }} *{{do | name=Classic Motoring | url=http://www.classicmotoring.co.uk/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For visitors wishing to tour the area in a classic car, the Cotswolds is home to Classic Motoring, a company specialising in the self-drive hire of Jaguar E-Type convertibles. }} ==Buy== * Weekly farmers market in [[Stroud]] ==Eat== The Cotswolds has a strong food culture with frequent well-established Farmers' Markets, local organic producers and individual businesses such as bakeries and orchard drink producers. Look out for Double and Single Gloucester (and up to 100 other) cheeses, Old Spot Pork and local organic game and venison - plus soft fruits in season. The local food culture is extending to pub noticeboard menus. ==Drink== Enjoy a pint at one of the area's excellent pubs. * Donington Ale in the north Cotswolds (brewed in Donington, near Stow-on-the-Wold) * Hook Norton Ale ('Old Hooky' and the like) * Battledown Brewery (Cheltenham Spa Standard, Premium and Porter) * Stroud Organic Ale in and around Stroud. ==Sleep== The area has a long history of hospitality since being adopted by Londoners with newly available reliable motor cars a hundred years ago and there remains a concentration of high-quality hotels and B&Bs in the area. Hotels and larger B&Bs are typically expensive in the more picturesque towns and villages. However, smaller B&Bs can be found for a reasonable cost. For a longer stay a cottage, barn or church conversion or other private accommodation can be rented – typically for a weekend up to stays extending several weeks. ==Stay safe== The area is very safe, with little crime. ==Go next== * '''[[London]]''', the capital city, is a short distance from the Cotswolds, with its bustling shopping streets, world-renowned galleries and famous nightlife * '''[[Bristol]]''' has a thriving live music scene, along with plenty to see in the Harbourside museums and galleries during the daytimes * Walk in '''[[Chiltern Hills]]''', which form a picturesque landscape between Oxford and London, with plenty of viewpoints over patchwork fields and wooded hills * The '''[[Forest of Dean]]''' and '''Wye Valley''' beyond come alive during the spring before turning to stunning reds and browns every autumn, kept in check by the largest wild boar population * Discover the '''[[Brecon Beacons National Park|Brecon Beacons]]''', a mountain range in [[Wales]] with dramatic landscapes punctuated by forests and lakes {{extraregion}} {{geo|51.761|-1.888|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|West Country}} 9q00set42shljhlt1aeuz40g3k30n5l 0 8540 5288969 5288354 2026-06-07T03:36:07Z ~2026-33445-38 2419361 /* Money */ Typo fix. 5288969 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Croatia Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Croatia''' ([[Croatian phrasebook|Croatian]]: ''Hrvatska'') is a Mediterranean country in Southeastern [[Europe]], and is a part of the [[Balkans]]. Much of the tourist industry is concentrated along the coast. Nautical tourism is supported by marinas, while cultural tourism relies on the appeal of medieval coastal cities and cultural events taking place during the summer. Inland areas offer agrotourism, mountain resorts, and spas. Zagreb is a significant destination, rivalling major coastal cities and resorts. Croatia has unpolluted marine areas with nature reserves and 116 Blue Flag beaches. Croatia was ranked first in Europe for swimming water quality in 2022 by the European Environmental Agency. ==Regions== [[Image:Croatia Regions map.png|thumb|500px]] There are three distinct areas of Croatia: Lowland Croatia (''Nizinska Hrvatska''), Littoral Croatia (''Primorska Hrvatska''), and Mountainous Croatia (''Gorska Hrvatska''), and these can be neatly split into five travel regions: {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Istria]] (''Istra'') | region1color=#cba46b | region1items= | region1description=A peninsula in the northwest, bordering [[Slovenia]] | region2name=[[Kvarner]] | region2color=#83aec9 | region2items= | region2description=Seashore and highlands north of Dalmatia, includes subregions: Bay of Kvarner and Highlands ([[Lika]] and [[Gorski Kotar]]) | region3name=[[Dalmatia]] (''Dalmacija'') | region3color=#71b37b | region3items= | region3description=A strip of mainland and islands between the Mediterranean and [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]] | region4name=[[Slavonia]] (''Slavonija'') | region4color=#aac496 | region4items= | region4description=Including subregions Slavonija and Baranja (north of river Drava) northeastern area of forests and fields, bordering [[Hungary]], [[Serbia]], and [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]] | region5name=[[Central Croatia]] (''Središnja Hrvatska'') | region5color=#b5af99 | region5items= | region5description=North central highlands, location of [[Zagreb]] }} ==Cities== <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Zagreb]] |lat=45.816667|long=15.983333|wikidata=Q1435}}, the capital, has a fine old city. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Dubrovnik]] |lat=42.640278|long=18.108333|wikidata=Q1722}} is a spectacular walled city and {{UNESCO}}. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Osijek]] |lat=45.557531|long=18.679589|wikidata=Q1640}} to the east is the chief city of [[Slavonia]], with many budget flights. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pula]]|lat=44.866667|long=13.85|wikidata=Q4656}} is the main town of [[Istria]] with a well-preserved Roman amphitheatre. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Rijeka]]|lat=45.316667|long=14.416667|wikidata=Q1647}} is Croatia's main port, with ferries across to Italy and to the Adriatic islands. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Split]]|lat=43.51|long=16.45|wikidata=Q1663}} has an entire ancient city shoehorned into a Roman Imperial palace. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Zadar]]|lat=44.114167|long=15.227778|wikidata=Q3370}} has a rich history and lies in a scenic area, yet is overlooked by most tourists. ==Other destinations== '''The islands''' are some of the best of what Croatia has to offer. There are reckoned to be 1244, but the top handful are: * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Cres]] |lat=44.96|long=14.408056|wikidata=Q13280}}, large and well-developed. Nearby '''Krk''' is nowadays connected to the mainland. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Brač]] |lat=43.316667|long=16.633333|wikidata=Q922}} is a long thin island, with Supetar its main port. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Hvar]] |lat=43.133333|long=16.733333|wikidata=Q5993}} has a charming old port. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Korčula]] |lat=42.95|long=17.116667|wikidata=Q13288}} has an attractive old town and string of little villages. '''Inland''' in the rugged mountains are many scenic areas: * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Žumberak]]|lat=45.7|long=15.46|wikidata=Q394286}} is the mountainous region between Slovenia and Croatia. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Plitvice National Park]] |lat=44.880556|long=15.616111|wikidata=Q189849}} is a spectacular scenic area and {{UNESCO}}. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Krka National Park]]|lat=43.801944|long=15.972778|wikidata=Q828155}} is a river valley near Šibenik. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationCroatia.png}} [[File:Zut srednji kanal.jpg|300px|thumb|right|Croatia has 1244 islands]] [[File:Trg bana Jelacica Zagreb 30102012 2 roberta f.jpg|thumb|right|Ban Jelačić Square in Zagreb]] ===Climate=== The climate of Croatia is diverse. The continental part has a generally temperate continental climate, but with summers that are often very hot (average temperature: January -10°C to 5°C; August 19°C to 39°C), while mountainous areas at their highest elevation have a colder, alpine-like climate, and have the most precipitation. The coastal part has a Mediterranean climate which is on average warmer, but also more even throughout the year, and not normally marked by prolonged extreme heat (average temperature: January 6°C to 11°C; August 21°C to 39°C). This is because the temperature changes are moderated by the Adriatic sea. Still, the area is not immune to heatwaves which may cause wildfires to erupt; they are managed by firefighters and rarely cause significant damage to communities. Mediated by the local topography, specific seaside areas experience a dry and cool wind forcefully descending from the mountains, called ''bura''; it can adequately be summed up as unpleasant (upon direct exposure), however it has a positive corollary in that it brings in high-quality mountain air. Dalmatia in particular has exceptionally high annual sun, especially on the islands, with 2700 hours of sunlight per year on the record. ===Terrain=== Croatia's geography is diverse with flat agricultural plains along the Hungarian border (Central European area), low mountains and highlands near the Adriatic coastline, and islands. There are 1,246 islands; the largest ones are [[Krk]] and [[Cres]]. The highest point is Dinara at 1,830&nbsp;m. ===History=== In ancient times, what is now Croatia was part of the regions of Illyria and Dalmatia. This region came under [[Roman Empire|Roman control]] and became a province known as Illyricum from 27 BC. In the 5th century, Rome was declining and the Ostrogoths seized an opportunity to rule the area for a short period. The Avars arrived soon after, incorporating the land into the Avar Khaganate. In the early 7th century the Croats came and defeated the Avars, and formed two duchies: Croatia and Pannonia. The establishment of the Trpimirović Dynasty ca 850 strengthened the Dalmatian Croat Duchy, which together with the Pannonian principality became a kingdom in 925 under King Tomislav. The independent Croatian kingdom lasted until 1102 when Croatia, after a series of dynastic struggles entered into a personal union with Hungary, with a Hungarian king ruling over both countries. In 1526, after the Battle of Mohács, in which Hungary suffered a catastrophic defeat against the Ottoman Turks, Croatia severed its relationship with Hungary and its parliament (Sabor) voted to form a new personal union with the Habsburg Monarchy. Croatia remained an autonomous kingdom within the Habsburg state (and later [[Austria-Hungary]]) until the empire's dissolution following its defeat in World War I. In 1918, a short-lived State of Slovenes, Croats and Serbs (carved out of south Slavic parts of Austria-Hungary) joined the Kingdom of Serbia to form the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes, later renamed Yugoslavia in 1929. The new state was unitarist in character, erasing all historical borders within its new territorial division, which resulted in a strong movement for more autonomy for Croatia. This was achieved in 1939, only days before the start of World War II, when Croatia was granted broad autonomy within Yugoslavia as Banovina of Croatia. When Axis powers Germany and Italy invaded Yugoslavia in 1941, the state was dissolved, parts of it annexed to Germany and Italy, and puppet governments installed in Croatia and Serbia. After the 1941 split between the Partisans and the Chetniks in Serbia, the Chetnik groups in central, eastern, and northwestern Bosnia found themselves caught between the German and Ustaše (NDH) forces on one side and the Partisans on the other. Almost immediately, a strong resistance movement was formed, led by communist leader Josip Broz "Tito" (whose father was a Croat), which gained broad popular support. The Ustasa-led Nazi puppet state, the Independent State of Croatia – which included most of present-day Croatia, all Bosnia and Herzegovina and a small part of Serbia – had a population of some six million people, including around 3.5 million Croats, 1.8 million Serbs and 700,000 Bosniaks. Modelled on Nazi Nuremberg laws, the NDH in April 1941 passed legislation against “non-Aryan” Jews and Roma. After Jasenovac concentration camp was founded in 1941, solely by the governing Ustaše regime rather than by Nazi Germany as in the rest of occupied Europe, in its vision of an ethnically pure state – with Bosniaks considered as Croats of the Muslim faith – the NDH started targeting Serbs and two minorities, Jews and Roma, and others were killed because they were anti-fascists, as well as real or suspected political enemies. In the 2000s, the Jasenovac Memorial Site started working on a list of all the inmates who were killed or died at the camp, using existing name-by-name lists, documents, confirmations of deaths and verifications by relatives. The Memorial site has put together the most comprehensive name-by-name list so far, which includes a total of 83,145 victims. Sorted by ethnicity, the list has 47,627 Serbs, 16,173 Roma and 13,116 Jews, while Croats, Bosniaks and others make up the total number. While the Memorial Site itself says that the number is not final, as well as admitting the possibility that there are isolated mistakes in its list, it believes that the total death toll is within its estimate of between 80,000 and 100,000 people. By early 1945, the NDH army withdrew towards Zagreb with German and Cossack troops. They were overpowered and the advance of Tito's Partisan forces, joined by the Soviet Red Army, caused a mass retreat of the Ustaše towards Austria. The British Army, however, refused them entry and turned them over to the Partisan forces, starting the Bleiburg repatriations. Although NDH (1941–1945) was part of Croatia's history, current Constitution of Croatia does not officially recognise the Independent State of Croatia as the historical or legitimate predecessor state of the current Croatian republic. After the end of World War II, the Constitution of 1946 made the People's Republic of Croatia and the People's Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina two of the six constituent republics of the new Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Communist Yugoslavia was formed with Tito becoming "president for life". Tito ruled with a strong hand, using political repression and secret police to quell any separatist sentiments, with the official motto of the new country being "Brotherhood and Union". Still, Yugoslavia didn't belong to the Warsaw Pact, and broke off political ties with the USSR in 1948. It was by far the most open socialist country in Europe, and its citizens enjoyed more civil liberties and a higher living standard than the rest of the Communist bloc. After Tito's death in 1980, the weakening of political repression led to a period of political instability. Faced with the rise of nationalist sentiment and the fall of communism in eastern Europe in 1989 and 1990, the first free elections were held in Yugoslavia in almost 45 years. In January 1990, the Communist Party fragmented along national lines, with the Croatian and Slovenian delegations demanding a looser federation, while the Serbian side, headed by Slobodan Milošević, opposed this leading to a rise in inter-ethnic tensions. In late April and early May 1990, the first multi-party elections were held in Croatia, with Franjo Tuđman's win and constitutional changes in 1990 transforming the Socialist Republic of Croatia into the Republic of Croatia. Nationalist Serbs in Croatia boycotted the Croatian Sabor and seized control of Serb-inhabited territory, setting up road blocks and voting for those areas to become autonomous. The Serb "autonomous oblasts" would soon become increasingly intent on achieving independence from Croatia. This led to open war in Croatia and later in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and by mid-1991, the Croatian War of Independence had already started. Croatia was first recognised as an independent state on 26 June 1991 by Slovenia, which declared its own independence on the same day as Croatia. But by 29 June, the Croatian and Slovenian authorities agreed to a three-month moratorium on the independence declaration, in an effort to ease tensions. On 8 October 1991, the Croatian Parliament severed all remaining ties declaring their independence from Yugoslavia. Serb-controlled areas of Croatia were part of the three "Serb Autonomous Oblasts" later known as the Republic of Serbian Krajina, bulk of which would not be under Croatian control until 1995. Finally, Croatian independence was internationally recognised in January 1992, when both the European Economic Community and the United Nations granted Croatia diplomatic recognition, and the country was accepted into the United Nations shortly thereafter. The war ended four years later, in 1995, with a decisive Croatian victory in Operation Storm. Present day borders of Croatia were established when the remaining Serb-held areas of eastern Slavonia were restored to Croatia pursuant to the Erdut Agreement of November 1995, with the process concluded in January 1998. The anniversary of Operation Storm is celebrated as Thanksgiving Day in Croatia every August 5. After a period of accelerated economic growth in the late 1990s and 2000s Croatia joined NATO in 2009 and the European Union in 2013. In 2023, Croatia became part of Schengen Agrement and adopted euro as an offical currency. Croatia today is a functioning liberal democracy, with a free market system and a robust welfare state. ===Holidays=== * '''January 1''': New Year's Day * '''January 6''': Epiphany * '''Easter''' (according to the Gregorian calendar) * '''Corpus Christi''' (60 days after Easter) * '''May 1''': International Workers' Day * '''June 22''': Anti-Fascist Struggle Day * '''June 25''': Statehood Day * '''August 5''': Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day and the Day of Croatian defenders * '''August 15''': Assumption of Mary * '''October 8''': Independence Day * '''December 25''': Christmas ===Visitor information === *[https://croatia.hr/en-gb Explore Croatia] ==Talk== {{Seealso|Croatian phrasebook}} The main language is [[Croatian phrasebook|Croatian]], a Slavic language similar to [[Serbian phrasebook|Serbian]] and [[Bosnian phrasebook|Bosnian]], all of which were called Serbo-Croatian until the breakup of Yugoslavia. Most younger Croats who grew up after the fall of Yugoslavia can speak English proficiently (especially in urban areas), but [[German phrasebook|German]] and [[Italian phrasebook|Italian]] are also very popular (largely because of historical reasons). People who grew up in Yugoslavia rarely speak English, although they may be able to converse in German or Italian. Some people might also speak [[French phrasebook|French]] or [[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]. Many older people can speak Russian as it was taught as one of the foreign languages in some schools during the socialist era, but this has been almost completely supplanted by English after the Cold War. ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of the Schengen Area.svg|thumb|450px| Visa policy of Schengen states]] ===Entry requirements=== {{Schengen}} More information about visa exemptions and the visa application procedure is available at the website of the Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs [http://www.mvep.hr/en/consular-information/visas/visa-requirements-overview/]. ===By plane=== Croatia has international airports in (descending in importance): * '''[http://www.zagreb-airport.hr/ Zagreb]''' ({{IATA|ZAG}}) as the capital city is the hub for [http://www.croatiaairlines.com/ Croatia Airlines]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, with conventional-carrier flights to the other major cities of Europe, plus Istanbul, Tel Aviv, Dubai and Doha. * '''[https://www.airport-dubrovnik.hr Dubrovnik]''' ({{IATA|DBV}}) largely serve the tourist trade, with many seasonal flights across Europe. They're rather quiet in winter after the daily flight to Zagreb has departed. * '''[https://www.split-airport.hr/index.php?lang=en Split]''' ({{IATA|SPU}}), '''[https://www.zadar-airport.hr Zadar]''' ({{IATA|ZAD}}), '''[https://airport-pula.hr/ Pula]''' ({{IATA|PUY}}), '''[http://www.rijeka-airport.hr Rijeka]''' ({{IATA|RJK}}) and '''[http://www.osijek-airport.hr/ Osijek]''' ({{IATA|OSI}}). See also individual city pages "Get in". Airports in neighbouring countries are sometimes a better option. These include [[Ljubljana]], [[Graz]], [[Trieste]] and [[Venice|Venice Marco Polo]]. Conversely, Dubrovnik is sometimes used as an airport for Montenegro. ===By train=== [[File:Estación Principal de FF.CC., Zagreb, Croacia, 2014-04-20, DD 03.JPG|thumb|The main railway station in Zagreb]] The rail network passenger lines are operated by [https://prodaja.hzpp.hr/en Hrvatske Željeznice (HŽ) Putnički Prijevoz (PP)]. They connect all major Croatian cities, except [[Dubrovnik]] (you can take a train to Split then take one of the frequent buses or the more scenic ferry to Dubrovnik, the train station is at the pier). There are direct lines from [[Austria]], [[Czech Republic]], [[Switzerland]], [[Germany]], [[Hungary]], [[Slovenia]]. There are indirect lines from almost all other European countries. From neighbouring countries, there are EuroCity, InterCity and EuroNight rail services: * From Germany: One night train per dayː [[Munich]]–[[Salzburg (city)|Salzburg]]–[[Ljubljana]]–[[Zagreb]] (tickets & timetable online at https://tickets.oebb.at/en) * From Austriaː One daily EC train from Vienna, additional seasonal overnight trains (tickets & timetable online at https://tickets.oebb.at/en) * From Hungaryː Two daily EC trains and additional seasonal overnight trains (tickets & timetable online at https://jegy.mav.hu/{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}) * From Switzerlandː One night train per dayː Zurich–[[Zagreb]] (tickets & timetable online at https://tickets.oebb.at/en) * From Slovakia and Czech Republicː Seasonal overnight trains from RegioJet and ZSSK No direct trains operate between Zagreb, Beograd and Sarajevo. While Croatia is covered on some [[Rail travel in Europe#Rail passes|Eurail passes]], staff at domestic ticket windows tend to have no idea about validating the pass on the first day of use. There are recorded instances of staff saying that the conductor would validate the pass, and the conductor simply treating it as a regular ticket. Fortunately, the international ticket staff (particularly in Zagreb) are aware of how to validate the pass, and have been known to validate it retroactively where necessary. They even ask for the details of the domestic ticket seller who gave the wrong information. The traveller is therefore recommended to have already validated their Eurail pass on arrival in Croatia, or to have it validated at an international window even if the first trip on it will be domestic. ===By car=== To enter Croatia, a driver's license, an automobile registration card and vehicle insurance documents are required. If you need roadside assistance, you should dial 1987. The following speeds are permitted: * 50&nbsp;km/h – within built-up areas * 90&nbsp;km/h – outside built-up areas * 110&nbsp;km/h – on major motor routes * 130&nbsp;km/h – on motorways * 80&nbsp;km/h – for motor vehicles with a caravan trailer * 80&nbsp;km/h – for buses and buses with a light trailer When driving in the rain, you should adjust speed to conditions on wet roads. Driving with headlights is not obligatory during the day (during Daylight Savings Time; it is obligatory during winter months). Use of mobile phones while driving is not permitted. Maximum permitted amount of alcohol in blood is 0.05% (matching neighbouring Slovenia and Bosnia-Herzegovina) although this has varied and was down to 0% until that was found to not be tenable in the country. Use of seat belts is obligatory. [https://www.hak.hr Hrvatski Auto Klub] is the Croatian Automobile Club dedicated to assisting drivers and promoting greater traffic security. Its site offers minute-by-minute updates, status of national traffic, weather, numerous maps and webcams all over Croatia. Content is available in Croatian, English, German and Italian. ===By bus=== Once you're in the country, Croatia has a reliable and cheap bus network. If you are coming from [[Italy]] there are two buses daily from [[Venice]] leaving at 11:00 and 13:45 going to Istria, with a final stop in [[Pula]]. These are operated by different bus companies, but you can buy tickets for both buses at the ATVO bus office at the Venice bus station. The office is in the bus station, but located outside on the ground level across from where all the buses park. Both buses pick up at spot b15. It is roughly a 5-hour bus ride, with stops in [[Trieste]] and [[Rovinj]]. You can also pick up the bus at the bus station in Mestre, 15 minutes after the scheduled bus leaves Venice. Coming in from Trieste, Italy is popular among Europeans, for Trieste is a Ryanair destination. There are multiple daily bus lines from Trieste to Croatian cities operated by the [https://www.arriva.com.hr Arriva Croatia] bus company. You cross the Italian-Slovenian border first, and then the Slovenian-Croatian border, but they are very close to one another. [[Dubrovnik]] and [[Split]] are the main destinations of international buses from [[Bosnia and Hercegovina]] or [[Montenegro]], with daily buses travelling to cities such as [[Sarajevo]], [[Mostar]] and [[Kotor]] (some lines such as Split-Mostar operate every few hours). Seasonal lines also extend through to [[Skopje]] from Dubrovnik. Border formalities on the buses are extremely efficient, and do not involve leaving the bus (previous services from Dubrovnik to Kotor involved changing buses at the Croatian border). [[Osijek]] is a large bus hub for international travel to [[Hungary]], [[Serbia]] and [[Bosnia]] in addition to its local buses, and the station is located conveniently next to the railway station. Many buses heading from Zagreb north into Hungary or [[Austria]] will pass through [[Varaždin]]. * From [[Germany]] you can travel to most Croatian larger cities with [https://www.arriva.com.hr Arriva Croatia] and [https://cazmatrans.hr/en Čazmatrans]. ===By boat=== [[File:Split and its harbour (22513292971).jpg|thumb|Split harbour]] [[File:Dubrovnik1bqw.jpg|300px|thumb|right|Dubrovnik is a city in Southern Dalmatia. Croatia has 20 UNESCO heritage sites and treasures of tradition.]] Ferries are cheap and go regularly between various places by the coast. Although not the fastest, they are probably the best way to see the beautiful Croatian islands of the Adriatic Sea. [http://www.jadrolinija.hr/default.aspx?lang=2 Jadrolinija] is the main Croatian passenger shipping line that maintains the largest number of regular international and domestic ferry and shipping lines. The following international lines are serviced by car ferries: * [[Rijeka]]–[[Zadar]]–[[Split]]–[[Hvar]]–[[Korčula]]–[[Dubrovnik]]–[[Bari]] * Split–[[Ancona]]–Split * Korčula–Hvar–Split–Ancona * Zadar–Ancona–Zadar * Zadar–Dugi otok–Ancona * Dubrovnik–Bari–Dubrovnik [http://www.blueline-ferries.com Blue Line International] also covers the international line Split–Ancona–Split [http://venezialines.com Venezia Lines] has regular catamaran lines between [[Venice]] and the Croatian cities of [[Poreč]], [[Pula]], [[Rovinj]] and Rabac. In theory one should not have to check-in if arriving by own boat from another Schengen country, but in practice it's needed for paying a vignette fee. This fee is valid per calendar year - so pretty low value for money if doing a New Year visit to Croatia. There is an official app NIS for sailors, though the usefulness is somehow limited. Note that if arriving to Croatia or leaving from Croatia from any non-Schengen country it's important not to do any shortcuts on the inside of any islands, the coast guard pays attention and gives high fines for that. Diesel for boats seems to be cheaper in Croatia than Italy and Greece. ==Get around== ===By plane=== National airline company '''[https://www.croatiaairlines.com Croatia Airlines]''' connects major cities in Croatia to each other and foreign destinations. Due to the comparatively short distances and relatively high hassle of air travel–especially when you travel with luggage – domestic air travel is used mostly for getting to end points – e.g., Zagreb to Dubrovnik (see map) and vice-versa. Another popular flight (available in the summer months only) is between Split and Osijek, saving a long trip back through Croatia, or alternatively through the middle of Bosnia. ===By train=== Train travel is definitely improving in Croatia, with money being spent on updating the aging infrastructure and vehicles. Trains are clean and mostly on time. Croatia's rail network connects all major Croatian cities, except [[Dubrovnik]]. If you want to visit Dubrovnik, you will have to travel by train to [[Split]], and then go on the bus for Dubrovnik. Trains to [[Pula]] are actually connected via [[Slovenia]] due to historical accident, though there are designated connecting buses from [[Rijeka]]. Rail is still the cheapest connection between inland and coast, though not the most frequent. 160 km/h "tilting trains" that connect Zagreb with Split and other major cities in Croatia such as Rijeka and [[Osijek]] provide more comfort and fast journeys between cities (Zagreb-Split is 5.5 hr, Osijek is 3 hr, when other trains take around 4.5 hr). If you make a reservation early enough you can get a substantial discount, or if you are a holder of an ISIC card. Information on the trains, including timetables and prices, can be found on the Hrvatske željeznice ([http://www.hzpp.hr/en Croatian Railways]) site in Croatian and English. Tickets are not usually sold on board, except if you happen to get on the train on one of the few stations/stops without ticket sales. However, only local trains stop on such stations. In all other cases, a ticket bought on the train will cost considerably more than the one bought outside the train. You should be aware that the platform designation is different from many countries. The platform (peron) is then further subdivided into two sides (kol). ===By bus=== [[File:Gare routière de Šibenik.JPG|thumb|Bus station in Šibenik. As elsewhere in the former Yugoslavia, bus is a practical way for getting around]] A very comprehensive coach network connects all parts of the country. Bus service between major cities (intercity lines) is quite frequent, as are regional services. The most frequent bus terminal in Croatia is Bus Terminal Zagreb (in Croatian "Autobusni kolodvor Zagreb"). Buses are faster than trains for inter-city travel. See [[Bus travel in the former Yugoslavia]] for more information. * [http://www.akz.hr Autobusni kolodvor Zagreb] – Zagreb Bus Station (timetable information, content in Croatian and English) * [http://www.croatiabus.hr/ CroatiaBus] – bus company (timetable information, prices, content in Croatian and English) *[http://www.arriva.com.hr Arriva Croatia] – bus company (timetable information, prices, content in Croatian, English, German, and Italian) * [http://www.ap.hr/ Autobusni promet Varaždin] – bus company (timetable information, prices, content in Croatian, English, and German) * [http://www.libertasdubrovnik.hr/ Libertas Dubrovnik] – bus terminal and company (international and domestic information; content mostly in Croatian) ===By boat=== Croatia is endowed with a beautiful coastline which is best explored by ferry or yacht to access the hundreds of islands. In many instances, the islands are accessible only by sea. For information on the regular ferry and catamaran connections, see these sites: * [http://www.jadrolinija.hr Jadrolinija] – the national ferry company. In addition to the routes operating from the major cities to the islands, it operates a ferry along the Adriatic Coast from Rijeka to Dubrovnik (and then across to Bari, Italy) calling at Split, Hvar, Mljet, and Korčula. Check the timetables [http://www.croatiatraveller.com/ferries/coastal_ferries.htm] as the schedules are seasonal. The boats are large and have sleeping facilities as the Rijeka-Split leg goes overnight. * [https://www.snav.it/hr/ SNAV] – an Italian company connecting Split with Ancona and Pescara. Check [https://www.snav.it/en/ timetables] as the schedules are seasonal. * [http://www.speedtaxiboat.com Split Taxi Boat] – speed taxi boat transfers from the town or airport of Split to nearby islands. * [http://www.azzuralines.com Azzura lines] – an Italian operator connecting Dubrovnik with Bari; check timetables as the schedules are seasonal. Outside the summer months it is often difficult or impossible to make a day trip to the more remote islands: ferry schedules are made to suit commuters who live on islands and travel to the mainland, not vice versa. For a more bespoke experience, there are literally dozens of yacht charter and other boat hire companies at virtually every significant port along the Adriatic coast. For bareboat charter you usually need certification from a reputable organisation, such as American Sailing or the RYA, or an extensive sailing resume. ===By car=== [[File:Sisak, Croatia - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|309x309px|Sisak is a city in Central Croatia, 55 km from Zagreb. ]] Croatia has a different traffic culture than northern Europe. You should therefore exercise caution when driving a car. The winding and narrow roads along the coast, excessive speeds and reckless overtaking can cause accidents. During the July-August tourist season, be prepared for congestion at key border crossings and on the roads leading to the coast. Roads in Croatia are usually well maintained, but can be very narrow and full of curves. Some local roads in Istria have been worn down to a smooth surface from regular wear and tear, and can be extremely slippery when wet. Highways with more than one lane per direction (motorways) tend to connect major cities and can be well out of the way even for some longer routes such as to Plitvice. Speed limits outside motorways are thus low (60–90&nbsp;km/h), and it's not recommended to drive faster (although most locals do), especially at night. Beware of animals crossing the road. In case you want to overtake a slow vehicle on a narrow road, often the drivers in front of you will flash their right yellow turning lights and drive all the way on the right to signal the drivers behind that it is okay to overtake. But this is at your own risk. Renting a car is around the same price as in the EU (from around {{EUR|40}}). Almost all cars have a manual transmission. Most rental agencies in the Balkans allow you to rent a car in one country and drive in the neighbouring countries however try to avoid a renting a car in Serbia and driving it into Croatia (or vice versa) in order to avoid negative attention from nationalists. On Croatian Motorways [http://www.croatia-expert.com/2009/03/toll-croatian-highway/]{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} toll fees apply. The A6 motorway runs between Zagreb and [[Rijeka]], while the main motorway A1 from [[Zagreb]] connects to [[Dubrovnik]] through the newly opened Pelješac bridge, circumventing the border crossing with [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]]. Another major motorway is the A3, linking the Slovenian border (not far from Zagreb) with eastern Croatia and the Serbian border (120&nbsp;km from Belgrade). The general speed limit on motorways is {{kmh|130}}. You will probably encounter cars driving much faster, but following their example is of course highly unsafe. Check your mirrors before pulling into the left (passing) lane, cars may approach from behind at higher speeds than on typical Western European motorways. When exiting a toll motorway, ask the receipt at toll booth if it is not given to you to be sure you do not get overcharged (you could receive along with the receipt some unexpected change compared with the price you were given verbally). If an unknown person flashes their car lights at you it may be a sign that they've recently passed a police unit doing speed limit checks. Ensure you comply with all the traffic rules and regulations to avoid being stopped and fined. Trying to find a parking space near Croatia's coastal old towns in the summer can be an exercise in futility. Even though prices range from the merely expensive in [[Split]] to the extortionate in [[Dubrovnik]], the spaces fill up very quickly. However, away from the old towns, parking is convenient and often free at shopping malls and large supermarkets, sports venues, near residential tower blocks and at restaurants (free for guests). Motorways and border crossings can experience congestion at high-traffic weekends during the tourist season. ===By taxi=== You can use a taxi service by calling 970, or sometimes another number for a private company – check individual city articles. The taxi usually comes within 10 to 15 minutes from the call except in the busy summer season where it depends on how much business they have. Croatian taxis are generally rather expensive. In major cities prices are around {{EUR|1}}/km, more in Split but less in Zagreb. Uber and other rideshare services exist but have about the same prices except during surges. You can also book the transportation in advance which is great when you are in a hurry or have a larger number of people in need of transportation, or you just want everything organised in advance. You can also arrange a taxi service by e-mail in advance to have even more comfort and to save money since these taxi operators are cheaper than the regular taxi service. Ride-hailing is available in Croatia and the following are the most anticipated providers: * {{go | name=Bolt | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-07-09 | content=Includes many towns. }} * {{go | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/zagreb/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-07-09 | content=Works in Zagreb, Split. }} ===By thumb=== Hitchhiking is generally good, but on some roads, it is not permitted. Roads on which you cannot hitchhike are usually denoted by a sign with the word 'autostop' crossed out ('autostop' is Croatian for 'hitchhiking'). These are generally motorways: Hitchhiking directly on a motorway (i.e. while standing on the stopping lane) could easily result in a fine if a police car passes by. If you can get to a highway toll stop simply ask people to take you with them as they open their windows to pay the toll. The toll collectors usually won't mind. The tricky part, of course, is to get to the toll stop. If you are in [[Zagreb]] and you are, like most people, heading south, take the bus 111 from the Savski most station in Zagreb and ask the bus driver where to get off to get to the toll stop. The next best place to ask people to pick you up are gas stations. And finally, using the good old thumb will work too if everything else fails. ==See== [[File:Croatian National Theatre Zagreb 1.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Croatian National Theatre in [[Zagreb]]]] Croatia is dense with places that are well worthy of a visit, owing to its diverse regions, each with its own layered past. Towns and cities generally have a historical urban core that exhibits the architectural heritage of a specific era. To a get a sense of Croatia as a whole—how it was shaped by different influences, and the resulting contrasts—it is important to visit both the coastal and the inland part of the country. [[Dubrovnik]] being such a world renowned destination, it is often taken as the exemplar of the former style. However it is more of an enclosed world with its admirably individual aesthetic (having been an independent city-state for the most of its history). Other similarly gratifying places, like [[Šibenik]], carry the true spirit of Dalmatia, but going further north along the coast, there is [[Rijeka]], which again has quite a different kind of charm. Dominating continental Crotia lies its capital of [[Zagreb]], a home to nearly 1 million. It is a modern city with all the modern features, yet it mostly has an easy-going atmosphere. In the east, in the region of [[Slavonia]] with its regional capital [[Osijek]] and the war torn [[Vukovar]] are awe inspiring. Scattered throughout the region are vineyards and wine cellars, most of which give tours and tastings. Throughout the country there are numerous cultural venues that are worth seeing. Croatia has 10 [[UNESCO]] World Heritage Sites, 8 national parks and 10 nature parks. In total, the country has 444 protected areas. Beautiful Adriatic sea stretches along {{convert|1777|km|0|abbr=on}} of coastline, there are 1,246 islands to be seen, making Croatia an attractive nautical destination. ==Do== [[File:Hvar from Fortica.JPG|300px|thumb|right|City of [[Hvar]] has average of 2726 hours of sunshine per year, as do many other Croatian towns on Adriatic coast. Croatia is a land of urban culture which numbers more cities than any other part of the Mediterranean]] ===Sailing=== Sailing is a good way to see the coastal islands and networks of small archipelagos, and it gives you a chance to see some incredible bays that are simply inaccessible by anything other than a boat. Most charters leave from [[Split]] or the surrounding area on the North or the South circuit, each offering its own pros and cons, although [[Dubrovnik]] is becoming increasingly popular. A good way is to book a package with a company at home (and let them worry about speaking in Croatian!), although many Croatian companies do offer both bareboat and crewed charters. Booking a charter vessel is basically done in two payments: 50 percent of the charter price is paid as a deposit, after which the booking is confirmed. The other 50 percent of the charter fee is usually paid six weeks before the charter date. Before paying the first charter fee you should request to see the charter contract from the agency where you chartered a boat – pay close attention to the cancellation fees because in many cases if you cancel your charter vacation you could lose the initial fifty percent you have already paid. After that you are all set to go sailing. Most yachts are only available on a Saturday–Saturday basis in peak season (May–September); there may be more flexibility from yacht companies in April and October if you can't do the full week. When you arrive at the 'home marina' (where your chartered yacht is moored), you need to do the check in (usually Saturday around 16:00) and you have to do the shopping for the charter vacation. There is usually a mini-market in the marina, but it will be expensive compared to a normal supermarket. Typically you will be nearest a big supermarket on the first day, so it's the best time to stock up. Buy everything that you possibly can (that won't go off) – the sea and winds can be unpredictable and you don't want to get stuck on the boat with nothing to eat or drink! Top up your shopping with fresh bread, meat, fruit and vegetables in local marinas. You can also order from yacht provisioning services that can deliver your shopping straight to your yacht. This is convenient because it takes the load off you and the things you must do when you arrive at the marina for your sailing holiday, but also (obviously) works out more expensive. ===Naturist resorts=== Croatia was the first country in Europe to introduce the concept of commercial [[naturism|naturist resorts]]. According to some estimates, about 15% of all tourists that visit the country are naturists or nudists (more than one million each year). There are more than 20 official naturist resorts as well as a very large number of the so-called free beaches which are unofficial naturist beaches, sometimes controlled and maintained by local tourist authorities. In fact, you are likely to find nudists on any beach outside of town centres. Naturist beaches in Croatia are marked as "FKK". The most popular nudist destinations are [[Pula]], [[Hvar]] and island [[Rab]]. ===Medical tourism=== Increasingly Croatia is becoming a popular place for [[Medical_tourism|health tourism]]. A number of dental surgeries have experience in treating short term visitors to Croatia. Croatian dentists study for 5 years in Zagreb, Split or Rijeka. Harmonization of training with EU standards has begun, in preparation for Croatia's accession. ===Croatia for the disabled=== Facilities for the disabled are not as developed as elsewhere, but there are exceptions to this and certain hotels, camp sites and beaches have facilities for the disabled and wheelchair access. ===Lighthouses=== One of Croatia's more "wild" holiday offers are the lighthouses. Most of them are situated on a deserted coastline or in the open sea. The speciality of this is that you are able to cut yourself off from the rest of the world and take the time to "smell the roses". Sometimes the best way to relax is to take part in a Robinson Crusoe style holiday. Croatia has 11 rent-a-lighthouses along the Adriatic coast: Savudrija, Sv. Ivan, Rt Zub, Porer, Veli Rat, Prisnjak, Sv. Petar, Pločica, Sušac, Struga and Palagruža. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{Template:Exchange rate euros}} {{Euro}} Prices are around 10% to 20% lower than most other EU countries. Tourist destinations and articles are much more expensive. Value added tax (PDV) is 25% with reduced rates for certain items, as of 2024. Credit cards are virtually everywhere accepted but there is no American Express acceptance in Croatia. ====Kuna==== Croatia's former currency, the '''kuna''', denoted by the symbol "kn" (ISO code: HRK) was retired on 1 January 2023. Any amount of kuna you have left can be converted to euros for a fixed rate of 7.53450 kuna per euro. Exchanging them at banks is however not free of charge; Croatia's national central bank will exchange kuna banknotes free of charge until further notice, and coins until December 2025. Most shops have their price quoted in both euro and kuna for familiarization purposes, but it is not required, and it is no longer possible to pay using the latter. ===ATMs=== ATMs (in Croatian ''bankomat'') are readily available throughout Croatia. They will accept various European bank cards, credit cards (Diners Club, Eurocard/MasterCard, Visa, American Express, etc.) and debit cards (Cirrus, Maestro, Visa electron, etc.) Read the labels and notices on the machine before using. Check charges before completing transaction - It is advisable to use a bank ATM and not Euronet or similar due to high fees. ===Tipping=== Discrete service charges are not included in the bill, so voluntary tipping is customary. However, as in the rest of Europe, waiters and bartenders are paid (at least) a statutory living wage, so tip amounts tend to be on the small side—if you're paying for a drink, a nominal tip by rounding up or leaving just any eurocent coin on the table is normal, but if you're paying for dinner, the usual tip is 5-10%, with a bias toward rounding up (say, the bill could be {{EUR|18.5}} or {{EUR|28.5}}, and in both cases an equally normal tip would be {{EUR|1.5}}). Tipping 10% is a sign that you are satisfied with the service; more than that is unusual. If generally paying with a credit card it's a good idea to carry some small-denomination currency, to be able to tip in cash. It is becoming increasingly common to tip with the credit card, but it's doubtful if the person who served you will actually benefit from the tip. It's also somewhat customary to tip certain other service personnel (small amounts only, in the manner of "keep the change"), such as taxi drivers and hairdressers. ===Tax-free shopping=== {{infobox|Sunday opening times|With effect from 1 July 2023, most shops are only allowed a limited opening on Sundays of up to 16 times per calendar year, with the dates left up to the store’s own discretion. Shops in train stations and airports, petrol stations, as well as accommodation and entertainment facilities are exempt from this rule. Bakeries & kiosks are also allowed to open on all Sundays but only until 13:00. In tourist areas, shops will generally opt to open on Sundays for the whole summer. Sundays on non-peak seasons however would mean a much quieter town. It is highly advised to plan ahead by shopping on Saturday if you would need something for Sunday.}} If you buy goods worth more than a threshold, you are entitled to a PDV (VAT) tax return when leaving the country. This applies to all goods except petroleum products. At point of purchase ask the sales person for a PDV-P form. Fill it out and have it stamped on the spot. On leaving Croatia the receipt will be verified by the Croatian Customs service. A PDV refund can be obtained within six months, either at the same shop where you bought the goods (in that case the tax will be refunded to you immediately), or by posting the verified receipt back to the shop, together with the account number into which the refund should be paid. In this case the refund is dealt with within 15 days of receipt of the claim. There is another, much easier way to receive the refund. Buy your goods in shops with a "Croatia Tax-free Shopping" label. This label is displayed on the shop's entrance, usually next to the labels of credit cards and debit cards this particular shop accepts. Using an international coupon, refund is possible in all countries-members of the Tax-free international chain. In this case the service charge is deducted from the tax refund amount. Croatia now uses the Global Blue system. They will do the refund and take a commission. You can do this at the airport or post it once you get home. ===Natural cosmetics=== The ingredients used (herbs, olive oil, etc.) are grown in Croatia. In comparison to some world famous beauty products, Croatian natural cosmetics present real value for money. '''[http://www.ulola.com/ Ulola]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' makes soaps, bath salts, body butters and more. It's all natural and comes in combinations like orange and cinnamon, and goats milk and almond oil. '''[http://www.atea.hr/ S-Atea]''' produces soaps, shower gels, body butter and more. Seaweed, olive oil, rosemary and lavender are some of the ingredients they use. '''[http://www.bracfinisapuni.com/ Brac fini sapuni]''' (Brac quality soaps) makes a wide range of natural soaps. Their bath line includes Aurum Croaticum made from virgin olive oil and thin leafs of 23 carat gold. ===Local designers=== There are many Croatian designers and clothing specialists. '''[http://etnobutik-mara.com/ Etnobutik "Mara"]''' (designs by Vesna Milković) offers a range of really unique clothing and accessories inscribed with "glagoljica" (glagolitic script; old Slavic alphabet). Some of her designs are protected as Authentic Croatian produce. '''I-gle''' Fashion Studio by two female designers Nataša Mihaljčišin i Martina Vrdoljak-Ranilović. Their clothing is sold in Harvey Nichols in Knightsbridge (London). '''Nebo''' ("Sky") is a fashion house that makes really nice, funky clothes and shoes. '''Nit''' ("Thread") is not widely known even among Croats but is definitely worth visiting as they have some "funky and arty but serious" clothing items that are "value for money". '''Borovo''' is a well-priced and stylish shoe company which makes everything from flip-flops to desert boots and high heels. ==Eat== [[File:Croatian cheese.JPG|thumb|Croatian cheese]] Croatian cuisine is quite diverse so it is hard to say what meal is most typically Croatian. In the eastern continental regions (Slavonija and Baranja) spicy sausage such as ''kulen'' or ''kulenova seka'' is a must try. ''Čobanac'' ("shepherd's stew") is a mixture of several kinds of meat with a lot of red spicy paprika. In Hrvatsko Zagorje and Central Croatia pasta filled with cheese called ''štrukli'' is a famous delicacy (it is said that the best štrukli in Croatia is served in the Esplanade Hotel restaurant in Zagreb), as is ''purica s mlincima'', which is baked turkey cooked in a special kind of pastry. ''Sir i vrhnje'' (sour cream with cottage cheese) can be bought fresh on the Zagreb main market Dolac. Croats love a bit of oil and you will find plenty of it in ''piroška''. In the mountainous regions of Lika and Gorski Kotar meals containing mushrooms, wild berries and game meat are very popular. One of typical dishes in Lika is ''police'' (oven-baked potatoes covered with bacon) and several kinds of cheese (smoked cheese and ''škripavac''). The coastal region is well known for its truffle delicacies and soup ''maneštra od bobić'' (Istria), Dalmatian ''pršut'' and ''paški sir'' (Pag-island cheese). Dishes made of fresh fish and other products of the sea (calamari, octopus, crabs, scampi) shouldn't be given a miss. Many places serve fish delivered from the local fisherman the night before – find out which ones! [[File:Ćevapi.jpg|thumb|Ćevapi]] Croatian cuisine has yet to come up with a fast food representative. The market is dominated by globally ubiquitous hamburgers and pizzas but you will also find "burek" and "ćevapčići" imported from the [[Ottoman Empire]], which stretched from the Middle East to neighbouring Bosnia. The latter two dishes are widely popular throughout Southeastern Europe. Burek is a type of meat or cheese pastry whereas ''ćevapčići'' are seasoned minced meat shaped in finger-size portions served in bread and often covered with onions. Although definitely not a fast meal (takes several hours to prepare), also foreign in origin is the so-called ''sarma'' or sauerkraut rolls filled with minced meat and rice. For those coming back from nightclubs at 04:00 or 05:00 as is common in Croatia, it is popular to go to the local bakery and get fresh bread, ''burek'' or ''krafne'' (Croatian chocolate filled donuts) straight out of the oven. As far as fast food goes, who needs it when you can buy delicious ''prsut'' during the day and warm bread at night to compliment it. Most Croatians generally look down at fast food. Desserts: What it lacks in the fast food department Croatia makes up with a myriad of desserts. Probably the most famous is its delicious creamy cake called ''kremšnite'' but different kinds of ''gibanica'', ''štrudla'' and ''pita'' (similar to strudel and pie) such as ''orehnjača'' (walnut), ''makovnjača'' (poppy) or ''bučnica'' (pumpkin and cheese) are also highly recommended. ''Dubrovačka torta od skorupa'' is delicious but hard to find. ''Paprenjaci'' (pepper cookies) are said to reflect Croatia's tumultuous history because they combine the harshness of the war periods (pepper) with the natural beauties (honey). They can be bought in most souvenir shops though the freshly made ones are always a better choice. ''Rapska torta'' (The Rab island cake) is made with almonds and locally famous cherry liquor ''Maraschino''. This is hardly an exhaustive list and to dive further into the regionalities of Croatian cuisine, one can read the city and region articles. Chocolate candy ''Bajadera'' is available throughout shops in the country and along with ''Griotte'', is one of the most famous products of the Croatian chocolate industry. An unavoidable ingredient in many meals prepared in Croatia is "Vegeta". It is a spice produced by Podravka. Olives: a lot of people claim that Croatian olives and their olive oil are the best in the world. Many brands exist and some of them have several world awards. Try to buy olive oil from Istra (although oil from Dalmatia is also excellent) and choose only Croatian brands for olives. Try to read the label before buying to ensure you are buying Croatian olives and oil, since there are many cheaper imports, usually from Greece. All of this can be found in most supermarkets, but you should be really aware of the imports. Most Croatians aren't experts and prefer cheaper products, so the cheaper oils dominate the shelves. The olive oil is an irreplaceable ingredient in coastal Croatian cuisine, but be aware of the use of cheaper, non-Croatian oil in restaurants. Most tourists don't notice the difference so the restaurants don't find it profitable to use excellent oil; they rather use cheaper Spanish or Greek. Usually, asking the waiter for a better oil (and looking like an expert) helps, and soon the waiter will get you a first-class oil hidden away at the back of the restaurant. ===Vegetarians=== Although Croatia is not the best destination for vegetarians, '''vegetarians''' will not have much difficulty in Croatia. Lacto-ovo vegetarians will have many options, even in Croatian-cuisine restaurants since many of them offer at least one vegetarian option. This only means that they predominantly don't use meat and may still be prepared using lard or other animal fats or served with small pieces of meat, so make your requirements clear. Strict '''vegans''' may have a challenging time finding food without animal products since traditional vegetarian dishes usually include dairy. Pasta is popular in Croatia, so as long as you don't mind having a lot of pasta in Croatia you will have more options. Key phrases for vegetarians: * "I am vegetarian." – ''"Ja sam vegetarijanac."'' IPA: [ja sam vegetarijanats] * "Does this contain meat?" – ''"Sadrži li ovo meso?"'' IPA: [sadrʒi li ovo meso] * "Please don't use animal fats." – ''"Molimo vas da ne koristite životinjske masti."'' IPA: [molimo vas dane koristite ʒivotiɲske masti] * "Could you please cook without lard?" – ''"Možete li, molim vas, kuhati bez masti?"'' IPA: [moʒete li, molim vas, kuxati bez masti] ==Drink== [[File:Medica (Međimurje).jpg|thumb|Bottles of ''medica'']] Alcoholic: '''Rakija''', a type of brandy which can be made of plum (''šljivovica''), grapes (''loza''), figs (''smokovača''), honey (''medica'') and many other types of fruit and aromatic herbs, is the main distilled beverage served in Croatia. '''Pelinkovac''' is a bitter herbal liquor popular in Central Croatia, but is said to resemble cough-medicine in flavor. Famous '''Maraschino''', a liquer flavored with Marasca cherries, which are grown around Zadar, [[Dalmatia]]. Croatia also produces a broad palette of high quality wines (up to 700 wines with protected geographic origin), beers and mineral water. On the coast people usually serve ''bevanda'' with meals. Bevanda is heavy, richly flavoured red wine mixed with plain water. Its counterpart in northern parts of Croatia is ''gemišt''. This term designates dry, flavoured white wines mixed with mineral water. Two popular domestic beers are ''Karlovačko'' and ''Ožujsko'', but ''Velebitsko'' and ''Tomislav pivo'' have a semi-cult status. They are served only in some places in Zagreb and Croatia. Many well-known European brands (Stella Artois, Beck's, Carling, Heineken and others) are made under licence in Croatia. Non-alcoholic: Mineral water, fruit juices, coffee (espresso, Turkish or instant), tea, ''Cedevita'' (instant multivitamin drink), and drinkable yogurt. Very rarely you may find ''sok od bazge'' (elderflower juice) in the continental region. Worth trying! Also, in Istria there is a drink called ''pašareta'', a sparkling red drink with herbal extracts. Very sweet and refreshing! In some parts of Istria (especially south) in local basements, you can try ''smrikva'': a non-alcoholic refreshing drink made out of berries which grow on one sort of pine tree. The taste is a bit sour but very refreshing. Alcoholic drinks may not be sold or served to anyone under 18, though this rule isn't strictly enforced. Drinking in public is illegal but this is very rarely enforced, even less so when no glass bottles are involved. ==Sleep== Accommodation in Croatia is increasingly geared towards well-furnished, self-declared four- and five-star hotels. Prices are at their most expensive during the warmer months from June to September, especially July and August. Many coastal hotels are closed during the winter but there is at least one place to stay which is open in the off-season in all major towns. Private rooms and apartments are quite common, targeting the mass tourism market as visits to the country surged in the 2010s. Apartments tend to be self-containing, with a kitchen, bathroom, small lounge, and often a terrace outside. B&Bs haven't really taken off in Croatia because of the bureaucratic rules in place. In the countryside, rural homestays have become more visible, particularly in the inland regions. These homestays are slightly pricier than the private rooms and apartments, but include breakfast and home-cooked meals. ==Learn== European Union citizens have the same status as Croatian citizens when applying to Croatian universities. Full English-language courses in computer science and medicine are available in Zagreb and Split. ==Work== ===Volunteering=== Croatia is the destination of many worldwide volunteer organizations that send groups of volunteers throughout the year to help with agriculture, community development, education, animal welfare, and more. These programs are put together by nonprofits, community groups and volunteers to help locals improve their economy and way of life. With rich cultural history and stunning coastline, Croatia is truly is the jewel of eastern Europe. If you would like to travel to Croatia as a volunteer, visit these websites for volunteer programs, accommodations, travel dates, and tours. * [http://www.isvonline.com/croatia.html ISV Croatia] * [http://www.vcz.hr Volunteers Centre Zagreb] === General Work === EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can work in Croatia without any special permits but the registration as resident is bureaucratic, often due to language issues. Your employer should help you. Without a job offer/contract the process is often more complex and might require a lawyer to force the government to act - There is no legal basis for rejection if you have funds to sustain yourself and a local address. Generally it is required to obtain a personal identification number (OIB - free) at Porezna (Finance Ministry), then with this, your ID/Passport and a rent contract (or proof of ownership for real estate) register as resident at MUP (Ministarstvo unutarnjih poslova, Ministry of Internal Affairs - 15€ for ID issuance) - Within 30 days you receive a workers ID card. Validity ranges from 1 to 10 years and is decided by MUP; 5 years seems to be the most common and it is worth arguing if only offered 1 year. Your employer will handle the '''Health Insurance''' (HZZO) registration and a local card will be mailed to you. EU health insurance cards can be obtained with no cost at any HZZO office. If not employed it is required to pay Health Insurance yourself, approx. 50-75€ per Month, but no taxes or pension. This does not apply if married to a citizen. As of 2024 some report that HZZO stopped charging them even while unemployed; why is not known but likely related to Schengen ascension. Foreigners, including EU, are not eligible for unemployment benefits at this time (2024) regardless of marriage status - In reality even locals rarely receive any benefits (or commonly just around 100€/Month for very limited time) so this is not too much concern. Citizenship can be obtained after 10 years of legal residence and should require a language test but in reality this is often waived. Unlike in many countries costs are negligible and the process is fairly straightforward. ==Stay safe== Croatia is extremely '''safe''' by international standards in most crime categories. In case of an emergency, dial '''112''' for fire brigade, police, ambulance or mountain rescue. Police can search anyone at any time in public spaces and while they should have a reason there is in reality no recourse against it. Everyone is required to carry an ID or passport. '''Corruption''' exists but is exceedingly rare compared to other countries in the region. Attempts to bribe police will get you arrested. It is not uncommon that older Police officers outside Zagreb, even in Rijeka, Pula & Split, do not speak any English. Generally it is not advisable to carry knives even though it is not illegal. With an explanation (fishing, food, camping....) and not intoxicated this is usually not a problem. During summer make sure you use adequate SPF to protect yourself from '''sunburn'''. There are no ozone holes over Croatia but it's fairly easy to burn in the sun. If this happens make sure you get out of the sun, drink plenty of fluids and rehydrate your skin. The locals will often advise covering the burnt spot with cold yogurt bought from the supermarket. [[File:NE PRILAZITE - NA OVOM PODRUCJU JE VELIKA OPASNOST OD MINA (Hrvatska, 7 Travanj 2007).jpg|thumb|A mine warning sign]] Since the wars ended in 1995, '''landmines''' remain buried in Croatian soil. If you plan to hike consult locals before you go. The suspected areas are marked with mine warning signs. Although mines are still a problem for Croatia, it is highly unlikely you will spot any minefields in Croatia today. However, it is still better not to leave paved roads, ''even for a pee-break'', in areas you are not familiar with. If you find yourself in area that can be potential contaminated with mines, do not stray from marked roads or known safe areas. As of 2020, very few minefields remain in some rural areas. For further advice refer to Wikivoyage's [[war zone safety]] section. Watch out for '''''bura'' wind danger''' signs. The bura can be particularly strong in the Velebit area, where it can blow up to 200&nbsp;km/h and overturn lorries. However, if the wind is strong enough to pose a significant danger to all traffic on a road section, that section will be closed. During strong bura wind, avoid any activity on the sea. Accidents caused by wind occur every year and claim adventurous tourists' lives in Croatia. From sailing accidents to drownings due to high water. '''Avoid strip clubs'''. They are often run by shady characters, and often overcharge their guests. Foreigners have been charged {{EUR|2000}} for a bottle of champagne. These clubs overcharge their customers to the extreme, and their bouncers will have no mercy if you tell them you can't pay. You will soon find yourself in a local hospital. Using common sense is essential, but due to the nature of the clubs this may be in short supply, and you may be better advised simply to steer well clear of these clubs. Abuse of '''[[LGBT]] people''' is possible in Croatia, so travelers should potentially avoid public displays of same-sex affection. Risk of abuse is low in urban areas, whilst higher in rural areas. '''Religious discrimination''' is virtually non-existent but knowledge outside Roman Catholic, Orthodox and Islam (eg. Judaism and Hinduism) is often extremely limited. ==Stay healthy== No vaccinations are required when going to Croatia. If you're going camping or hiking in continental Croatia during summer, you should be aware of ticks and tick-carrying diseases such as ''encephalitis'' and ''lyme disease''. Approximately 3 ticks in 1000 carry the virus. In Eastern Slavonia (particularly around the Kopački Rit near Osijek) wear long sleeves and take insect repellent. '''[[Tap water]]''' in Croatia is perfectly safe, and in some areas considered the best in the world. However, you can still choose from several brands of excellent bottled water (Jamnica being the most popular, and Jana, several times awarded as the world's best bottled water.) Though the water may be some of the best in the world, avoid drinking the home-made wine sold in refilled plastic jugs in many local farmer's markets as it may cause intestinal distress. ==Respect== Croatia gained independence from Yugoslavia in 1991, and the 1990s were marked by ethnic conflict and the bloody and brutal war in Croatia is still a painful subject, but generally there should be no problem if you approach that topic with respect. Croatia has seen a heap of invaders through history; Greek, Roman, Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, Yugoslav, etc. Proudly independent today, calling Croatia Yugoslavia or calling Croats Yugoslav, would almost be considered an insult. Also don’t call the Croatian language Serbo-Croatian, as you could easily come across a person sensitive about the issue. Locals tend to be way more forgiving overall with Western than with ex-USSR and especially ex-Yugoslav tourists. Due to its history as part of Yugoslavia, there is still some mistrust towards Serbia and also Russia. While individual Serbian and Russian visitors are unlikely to encounter any problems, try to avoid being overly enthusiastic about either country, as it can quickly arouse negative sentiments among locals. Extremely rarely cars with Serbian registration are vandalized (in Zagreb, the border regions and on the coast mostly), this incidents are primarily caused by drunk youth and are more "in the moment" than planned. Visitors should avoid describing Croatia as a Balkan country, as Croats prefer to think of their country as Mediterranean and Central European, and some will take offence at the word "Balkan". Geographically, southern and coastal Croatia is part of the Balkans, while areas north of the Sava and Kupa rivers are not. Socially, displays of affection among the younger generation are the same as Western European standards, but the older generation (over 65) are still quite conservative, less on the coast and in Zagreb than "rural" areas. When driving on rural roads, particularly when a driver has to pull in to allow you to pass, it is customary to wave a thanks to the other driver by raising your hand from the steering wheel. Most Croats will respond to "thank you" with something along the lines of "It was nothing" or "not at all" which is equivalent to the English "Don't mention it". === Sensitive issues === Discussing local politics is not considered a societal taboo in Croatia, and Croats are open about talking about the country's political situation. Remember that you are a foreigner — to avoid coming off as culturally insensitive, simply listen, ask questions, and learn something new. Although Croatia is a secular country, most Croatians are adherents of Roman Catholicism, and it plays often an essential role in their lives. Be mindful of that when conversing with the Croats. ==Connect== ===Telephone=== Croatia uses the GSM 900/1800 system for mobile phones. There are three providers, Hrvatski Telekom (formerly T-Mobile; also operates the Bonbon prepaid brand), A1 (formerly Vipnet; also operates the Tomato prepaid brand) and Telemach. Over 98% of the country's area is covered, including most islands. Since 2006 UMTS (3G) is available as well, and as of 2013 also HSDPA and LTE. 5G has also been available since 2022 with A1, Telemach, and Hrvatski Telekom deploying 5G networks in the country. If you have an unlocked phone, you can buy a prepaid SIM card. There have been promotions in which SIM cards were given away for free with newspapers, and sometimes even literally handed out on the street. GSM phones bundled with Hrvatski Telekom or A1 prepaid SIM cards can be found in post offices, grocery stores and kiosks at varying prices. SIM cards do not need to be registered with an ID but some ISPs offer incentives to do so. An alternative to using a mobile phone is calling cards which can be found in postal offices and kiosks, there are two providers, Dencall and Hitme. You can buy cards from {{EUR|3.50}}. {{EU roaming}} '''Area codes:''' When calling between cities (actually between counties) or from a mobile phone, you must dial specific area codes: (area code)+(phone number) Zagreb (01) Split (021) Rijeka (051) Dubrovnik (020) Šibenik/Knin (022) Zadar (023) Osijek (031) Vukovar (032) Virovitica (033) Požega (034) Slavonski Brod (035) Čakovec (040) Varaždin (042) Bjelovar (043) Sisak (044) Karlovac (047) Koprivnica (048) Krapina (049) Istria (052) Lika/Senj (053) Mobile phones (091) (092) (095) (097) (098) or (099) ===Internet=== ADSL is still common in rural Croatia though fiber is more and more available - speeds range from 4Mbit/s to 2Gbit/s. Due to Yugoslav infrastructure it is not uncommon to see small villages with Gigabit+ fiber access while some urban tower blocks only have access to old ADSL or Cable. Rule of thumb is if you see a cell phone tower on the roof it most likely has fiber access also for residents. Cable is somewhat common in cities but rare rural, with usual speeds of 100-250Mbit/s; it has mostly been replaced by fiber. Prices are fairly cheap between Western EU and Eastern EU, ranging from €20 to €50. ISPs often share infrastructure with Hrvatski Telekom (HT) where they do not have their own as HT is forced to sell access to their network at a fixed price. A1 offers 4G/5G based home internet as well. Internet cafés are available in all major cities. They are relatively cheap and reliable. A free Wi-Fi signal can be found in practically every city (virtually all cafés, restaurants and hotels & some libraries, schools, colleges, shopping centers). Private unsecured networks have become uncommon. ===Postal service=== [[File:Poštanski sandučić u Dubrovniku (Zračna luka).jpg|thumb|A Croatian mail box]] Croatia's postal service is generally reliable, even if sometimes a bit slow. Every city and town has a post office. [http://www.posta.hr/default.aspx?pretpum&id=3417 Here] you can find their exact locations, and [http://www.posta.hr/default.aspx?izracun&id=3417 here] is the price list (the prices change often). ===Television, radio and printed media=== [http://www.hrt.hr HRT], the public television broadcaster, operates four channels, while the commercial networks RTL and Nova TV have two channels each. Foreign films and series are shown with sound in the original language (English, Turkish, German, Italian...) and Croatian subtitles. Only children's programming is dubbed. Many hotels and private apartments have some channels from other European countries (mostly from Germany). Radio stations that feature English-language pop/rock music are HRT-HR 2, Otvoreni and Totalni. They all have occasional traffic reports, but only HR 2 translates them into English, German and Italian during the summer. Other nationwide stations are HRT-HR 1 (news/features), HRT-HR 3 (mostly classical music), Narodni (Croatian pop) and HKR (Catholic radio). Newspapers and magazines from Germany, Austria, Italy, France, the United Kingdom, Russia, Slovenia, Serbia and other countries are available in Croatia. In Zagreb and the northern coastal areas some foreign newspapers arrive on the cover date, elsewhere they are late. {{geo|44.9|15.7|zoom=8}} {{isPartOf|Balkans}} {{outlinecountry}} 04hyr70ll9fnnrjp5wpbw1pckzkx3dd 0 9147 5288891 5269752 2026-06-06T16:00:36Z Pashley 1822 /* Guided tours */ remove dead link tag 5288891 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|D day banner.jpg|ftt=yes|caption=American 1st Infantry Division (the Big Red One) wading onto Omaha Beach}} The [https://en.normandie-tourisme.fr/discover/history/d-day-and-the-battle-of-normandy/ '''D-Day Beaches'''] are in the [[Calvados]] and [[Manche]] departments of [[Normandy]], [[France]]. They were the landing places for the Allied invasion of western Europe during [[World War II in Europe|World War II]]. An excellent time to visit is on the June 6th anniversary when there are numerous memorial ceremonies to mark the occasion. A large number of [[reenactment]] groups attend, adding pageantry and atmosphere. The church bells ring in the towns to celebrate the anniversary of their liberation. The French people will be happy to see you - these people remember, and the welcome will be warm. It has been a long time since 1944 and not many of the old soldiers survive, but those that do often return to these beaches on June 6th. For the 70th anniversary in 2014, 90-year-old Royal Navy veteran Bernard Jordan was denied permission to leave his nursing home because of his health; he snuck out and got on a ferry to France anyway. Two elderly paratroopers, a 93-year-old American and an 89-year-old Briton, jumped into France that day as they had 70 years earlier. ==Understand== : ''See [[World War II in Europe]] for context.'' On 6 June 1944 (D-Day), the long-awaited invasion of Northwest Europe (Operation Overlord) began with Allied landings on the coast of [[Normandy]] (Operation Neptune). [[Image:Flickr - DVIDSHUB - Reflection on D-Day.jpg|thumb|300px|American troops going in<br/>The high ground visible here made the landing on Omaha Beach especially difficult]] The task was formidable, for the Germans had turned the coastlininto an interlinked series of strongpoints with artillery, machine guns, pillboxes, barbed wire, land mines, and beach obstacles. Germany had 50 divisions in northern [[France]] and the [[low countries|Low Countries]], including at least a dozen in position to immediately be used against this invasion. Following an extensive air and sea bombardment of the assault areas, the Allies launched a simultaneous landing of U.S., British and Canadian forces. About 160,000 ground troops landed that day, roughly half American and half Commonwealth. About 4,000 ships, 11,000 planes, and many thousands of sailors and airmen also took part in the operation. Overall commander of Allied forces in Europe was the American General Dwight D. Eisenhower, who would later become the country's president, while the British General Bernard Montgomery was in charge of the ground forces in Normandy once they landed. On the German side, General Erwin Rommel was in charge of coastal defenses while Field Marshall Gerd von Rundstedt had overall command in the region. This was the largest seaborne invasion in history and an important Allied victory, though the costs in both lives and material were enormous. ===The landings=== {{quote|The eyes of the world are upon you. The hopes and prayers of liberty-loving people everywhere march with you.|author=General Dwight D. Eisenhower}} Just after midnight 24,000 men came in by parachute and glider on the flanks, to secure key points. Then the main seaborne landings on five separate beaches began at dawn. East-to-west, the attacks were: [[File:Pegasus_Bridge_1944.jpg|right|thumb|Pegasus Bridge]] * The British 6th Airborne, with one Canadian battalion, on the left flank near [[Caen]] ** {{see | name=Mémorial Pégasus | alt= | url=https://musee.memorial-pegasus.com/en/ | email= | address=av du Major Howard, 14860 Ranville | lat=49.242090 | long=-0.273750 | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 78 19 44 | tollfree= | hours= | price=€7.50 | wikipedia=Memorial Pegasus | image=Memorial Pegasus - Entrée du musée.jpg | wikidata=Q6815492 | content=The capture of Pegasus Bridge was a remarkable achievement of the Glider Pilot regiment and the Sixth British Airborne. The story is well covered in the museum where exhibits include the original Pégasus Bridge and a Horsa Glider. Several monuments to the Sixth British Airborne are beside the bridge. }} * {{listing | name=Sword Beach | alt=British | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.2988 | long=-0.3055 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1138519| wikipedia=Sword Beach | content= }} * {{listing | name=Juno Beach | alt=Canadian | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.332 | long=-0.399 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q832409| wikipedia=Juno Beach | content= }} * {{listing | name=Gold Beach | alt=British | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.346 | long=-0.554 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q745883| wikipedia=Gold Beach | content= }} * {{listing | name=Omaha Beach | alt=American | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.3720 | long=-0.8836 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q464257| wikipedia=Omaha Beach | content= }} * {{listing | name=Utah Beach | alt=American | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.415402777 | long=-1.174647222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q757273| wikipedia=Utah Beach | content= }} * The US 82nd and 101st Airborne, on the right flank around [[Sainte-Mère-Église]] Every beach has monuments and museums; see the [[#Beaches|Beaches]] section below for details. [[Image:D-day allied assault routes.jpg|thumb|300px|The main assault routes]] When the seaborne units began to land, the allied soldiers stormed the beaches against strong opposition, despite mines and obstacles. They raced across open beaches swept with machine gun fire and stormed the German gun positions. In fierce hand-to-hand fighting, they fought their way into the towns and hills and then advanced inland. Casualties were heavy in all areas and on both sides, though initially the Germans in their fortified positions had lighter losses than the Allies. ''“As we near the edge of the water we spread out. Other craft have grounded further along the beach. We are now abreast of them. They are disembarking with all types of material about their person, just as helpless as myself to shoot back the beach defenders. Some of the boys go down at the water's edge for a breather, but they come under direct machine-gun fire which criss-crosses the whole beach. Thank Heaven! "'' &ndash; <small>John Robson, [https://www.findmypast.co.uk/blog/discoveries/12-incredible-d-day-stories1 Hull Daily Mail]</small> By the end of the day the 3rd British Division was within three miles of Caen, the 3rd Canadian Division was well established on its intermediate objectives and the 50th British Division was only two miles from Bayeux. In the American zone, the 4th Division had established a 4-mile deep penetration inland and was within reach of Ste-Mere-Eglise, where the 82nd had fought throughout the night. At Omaha Beach the Germans had an advantage of terrain from the bluffs above the landing sites, but there too beachheads had been established. It was a magnificent accomplishment; the formidable Atlantic Wall had been successfully breached. By the end of D-Day, the Allies had landed more than 150,000 troops in France by sea and air, 6,000 vehicles including 900 tanks, 600 guns, and about 4,000 tons of supplies and, astonishingly, they had achieved complete surprise in doing it. More soldiers and supplies were pouring ashore to continue the advance; by early July the Allies had over a million men in France, and in August the total reached two million. ===Other allies=== The main invading force was American, British and Canadian, but several other allies had observers present or were involved in other ways. The captive nations of Europe contributed significantly to their own liberation; they all (even Germany) had resistance movements, and several also had more formal forces involved; on D-Day there were Free French on the beaches, and Norwegian, Dutch and Polish Navy ships offshore. A Polish armoured division fought as part of the Canadian army in Normandy. From D-Day through all the fighting in France, Belgium and Holland, the resistance disrupted both German communications and their efforts to move urgently-needed reinforcements and supplies. On D-Day, Free French paratroopers were dropped in [[Brittany]] (the region west of Normandy) to help with that; their success was a factor in the American victories on the [[#Cotentin Peninsula|Cotentin Peninsula]] shortly after D-Day and in Brittany later. By the time of this war the [[British Empire]] was far past its peak, but it was still a force to be reckoned with. On D-Day about half the landing force were British or Canadian, and the Empire made contributions beyond that. Ships of the New Zealand merchant marine delivered troops and British-based squadrons of Commonwealth air forces were in action along with the RAF and USAF. Also, every branch of the British services included personnel from other countries of the Empire. ===Towns=== The usual bases for visits to the beaches are either Caen or Bayeux; all the beaches are easily reached from either, though both are a bit inland not right on the beaches. [[Caen]] is the main city of the department of [[Calvados]], and the second most important city in Normandy after Rouen; it has various attractions and excellent shopping. It is about 15&nbsp;km (10 miles) from the coast. * {{see | name=Mémorial de Caen | alt= | url=http://www.memorial-caen.fr/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Mémorial de Caen | wikidata=Q390677 | content=This museum offers daily tours of the beaches and shows some good films of both the landings and the rest of the [[#Normandy_campaign|campaign in Normandy]]. }} [[Bayeux]] is a smaller town, closer to the coast and to the center of the invasion landing area. It is easy to get in and out of, and convenient for visiting the [[#Omaha Beach|Omaha]], [[#Gold Beach|Gold]] and [[#Juno Beach|Juno]] beach sectors. It has excellent restaurants and shops with an interesting pedestrian section. * {{see | name=Musée Mémorial de la Bataille de Normandie | alt=Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum | url= | email= | address=boul Fabian Ware, 14400 Bayeux | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 51 46 90 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3329287 | content=This museum offers a chronological presentation of the events of the Battle of Normandy along with an exhibition of equipment, small arms, weapons and uniforms, films, mementos and slides. English and French. Outside: German "Marder" anti-tank vehicle, Sherman Tank, American tank destroyer, and a British "crocodile" flame-throwing tank. Inside: American self-propelled 105 mm howitzer, Radio truck, armored bulldozer, American quad-50 caliber anti-aircraft gun (aka "meat chopper"), and several other large weapons. One of the best D-Day museums to offer a balance of artifacts on the one hand together with explanations and historical context on the other. }} * {{see | name=Musée Mémorial du General de Gaulle | alt=General de Gaulle Memorial | url= | email= | address=10, rue Bourbesneur, 14400 Bayeux | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 92 45 55 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=In the former Governor's House, this museum is dedicated to the numerous visits made by the general to Bayeux and in particular, the two important speeches delivered on 14 June 1944 and 16 June 1946. Film archives, photos, manuscripts, documents and memorabilia. }} There are other choices. * [[Ouistreham]] is on the coast at the eastern end of the landing area, on [[#Sword Beach|Sword Beach]], and may be convenient because it has a ferry from [[Portsmouth]]. * [[Arromanches-les-Bains]] is on the coast near the center, on [[#Gold Beach|Gold Beach]], and was one site where a "mulberry harbour" (artificial port) was built shortly after D-Day. * [[Sainte-Mère-Église]] is to the west, inland of [[#Utah Beach|Utah Beach]]; American paratroopers were dropped in the area a few hours before the seaborne invasion and fought a fierce battle in and around the town. The area has many other villages; most are quite picturesque and are able to accommodate tourists. One could also stay in one of the towns outside the actual landing area where an important battle was fought in the weeks after D Day. See the [[#Normandy_campaign|Normandy campaign]] section below for details. Almost every town in this area was damaged during the war; some &mdash; such as [[Caen]], [[Saint-Lô]], [[Vire]] and [[Falaise]] &mdash; were mostly destroyed. However, they have all long since been rebuilt. [[Bayeux]] was fortunately undamaged and so still retains the Medieval character. ===Climate=== Normandy has a temperate-zone maritime climate. The summers are warm and winters are mild. Rain however is a part of the climate all year round, winter seeing more rain than summer. The ongoing rain isn't enough to spoil a vacation most of the time and it does have a benefit, the nature is incredibly lush and green. Winter does see the occasional snow and frost as well, but in general the climate is pretty moderate in winter. Summers are a little warmer than in southern Britain with up to 8 hours of sunshine per day. Cyclists love the region because it is not nearly as hot as most other parts of France and can be more compared to southern England than inland France. Either way, sunscreen and a hat are necessary; even if it doesn't feel as hot as the rest of France, the sun is still beating down with force! ==Get in== Normandy is easily reachable from Paris, either by car (2 to 3 hours drive) or by train (2 hours from [[Paris]] St Lazare station to [[Caen]] central station). Alternatively, a ferry across the channel will take you in just over three hours from [[Portsmouth]] to [[Ouistreham]], the easternmost D-Day target, an ideal starting point. [[Portsmouth]] was one of the ports from which the invasion was launched and has a [https://theddaystory.com/ D-Day Museum]. Other ferries go to [[Cherbourg]] and [[Le Havre]], nearby though not in the actual landing area. Cherbourg is a major city and was liberated by the Americans in late June; see [[#Cotentin_Peninsula|Contentin Peninsula]] below. Le Havre is a smaller town and further from the beaches; it was a German naval base, mainly for torpedo boats. It was liberated by a British and Canadian force in early September after some of the heaviest bombing of the war and a fierce fight on the ground. Caen also has an airport, near the village of [[Carpiquet]] west of the city. Control of the airfield was fiercely contested in the weeks after D-Day. ==Get around== Tour the [[#Beaches|beaches and battlefields]], see the various museums and [[#Cemeteries|cemeteries]] throughout the area, and visit the seaside villages and towns. Independent travel either by car or using public transport is possible. {{Mapframe|49.37|-0.88|zoom=9|width=520|height=560|layer=M|lang=en}} Local tourist information offices provide a leaflet (in English) that lists key visitor attractions, and has details of seven route itineraries which are also signposted on the road network. ===By car=== Car rental in Normandy can be arranged through several international chains including Avis, Budget, Eurocar, and Hertz. Cars can be picked up in Caen. Driving in France is on the right-hand side of the road and all distance and speed measurements are in km. ===Bus=== Bus routes in Normandy with services between Caen and Bayeux, Bayeux and Ouistreham, and Bayeux to Grandcamp. These cover most of the main landing beaches. All the routes are operated by [http://www.busverts.fr/ Bus Verts du Calvados] {{phone|09 70 83 00 14 (non-geographic number)}}, and free timetables can be acquired from the main tourist offices. From Bayeux train station, you can catch a bus to some of the D-Day beaches. On the bus website there is a map of the bus route to the D-Day beaches. Bus 70 takes you to Omaha beach, the American cemetery, and to Pointe Du Hoc. Bus 74 takes you to Arromanches Beach, the location of the Mulberry harbors. According to Wikipedia: "Omaha beach is 5 miles (8 km) long, from east of Sainte-Honorine-des-Pertes to west of Vierville-sur-Mer" and these villages are accessible via Bus 70. Buses are few and far between, so take the few number of buses into account. Also, buses do not run when there is heavy snow, so check the bus website beforehand during snow season. In July and August Nomad operates [https://nomad.normandie.fr/lignes-de-cars/seasonal-route-125-en ligne 125]{{Dead link|date=September 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} every day between Grandcamp-Maisy and Courseulles-sur-Mer via [[Arromanches-les-Bains]], Colleville-sur-Mer, Longues-sur-Mer and Port-en-Bessin. It serves many sites and tourist attractions along the coast, including beaches, shops and museums. There are connections with routes 101, 120 and 121, which have special summer timetables. ===Bicycle=== Bike tours are very popular in France and biking is an excellent way of visiting the battlefields. You can rent bicycles at most major towns and railway stations in France. On D-Day, some of the invading troops used bicycles; see the photos below of British troops at [[#Sword Beach|Lion-sur-Mer]] and Canadians at [[#Juno Beach|Juno Beach]]. ===Guided tours=== Guided tours including transport are available; most travel agents in the area and many of the hotels can arrange these if required. In [[Caen]] or [[Bayeux]], some companies offer half-day or full-day guided tours to the battlefields with English-speaking guides. * [http://www.normandy-sightseeing-tours.com/ Normandy Sightseeing Tours] offers tours from Bayeux to all five landing beaches and beyond. They use 8-seat vans, for smaller groups and a better experience. The guides are French and mostly locals from Normandy, all English-speaking. * [http://larougerietours.co.uk/index.html La Rouge Tours] is one example of tours led by professional Battlefield Guides, mostly conducted by former servicemen. The [http://www.memorial-caen.fr/ Memorial de Caen] museum also conducts daily tours of the beaches. ==Beaches== Now more than 80 years after D-Day, the Normandy coastline is peaceful with lovely seaside towns and picturesque beaches. Many of the towns have names of the form something-sur-mer; ''sur-mer'' is French for "on the sea". Behind the coast is an old-fashioned farming landscape of grain fields, cattle and pastures, hedges and farmhouses. :"Take time to stroll on the beaches and through the villages and to drive country lanes that are once again regulated by rural rhythms, just as if they’d never been devastated at all. It's pretty and poignant, and here’s a strange thing, it brings out the best in people. There’s respect in the air and a common bond between visitors. Folk behave well, smile and chat more easily than usual."<br/>Anthony Peregrine, ''The Sunday Times''. However, the memories of war and D-Day are engrained in the landscape. Along the 80-km (50-mile) D-Day invasion coast there are the remains of German gun emplacements and bunkers, while war memorials and monuments mark where the allied forces landed. Inland, there are monuments in almost every village and at every bend in the road, for there is barely a square yard that wasn’t fought over. Along the coast and inland there are numerous D-Day related museums. Only by visiting do you get a proper idea of the vastness of the enterprise. The following description of the beaches is organized in an east-to-west order, so that it can be used to plan a driving or biking tour along the coast. The length of a tour depends on how many sites and museums a person decides to visit. Enthusiasts could spend several weeks, but two or three days are enough to cover the major sites. A good starting point is to get an orientation to the area and the history of D-Day at either the [http://normandy.memorial-caen.com/ Mémorial de Caen] or Musée du Débarquement (The Landing Museum) in Arromanches, and from there set out to explore. The beaches are still known today by their D-Day code names. ===Sword Beach=== [[File:Monument au commando Kieffer.jpg|thumb|Kieffer monument]] [[File:D-day - British Forces during the Invasion of Normandy 6 June 1944 B5040.jpg|thumb|British troops at Lion-sur-Mer]] Sword beach, the most easterly of the five beaches, stretches from [[Ouistreham]] to Luc-sur-Mer. The British 3rd Infantry Division landed on the 4&nbsp;km (2½-miles) of beach between Ouistreham and Lion-sur-mer. The 41st Royal Marine Commando landed at Lion-sur-Mer, while the N°4 British Commando landed at Ouistreham. Integrated with the N°4 British Commando were 177 Frenchmen of the 1st Battalion of Fusiliers Marins Commandos who were granted the honor to set foot on Normandy soil in the first wave. On the eastern flank of Sword beach, the Sixth British Airborne had parachuted in the early morning hours of June 6th to seize bridges over the River Orne and Caen canal, silence gun batteries and secure the eastern flank of the D-Day beaches. A ''coup de main'' attack captured Pegasus and Horsa bridges to ensure access to the high ground overlooking Sword was secured. The Germans fought hard on all beaches, but Sword was the only one where they were able to mount a counter-attack with an armoured division on D-Day itself. This caused heavy casualties and stopped the British advance for a time. * {{see | name=Musée de la Batterie de Merville | alt= | url= | email= | address=Place du 9ème Bataillon, 14810 Merville-Franceville | lat= | long= | directions=In the Merville coastal battery casemate | phone=+33 2 31 91 47 53 | fax= | hours= | price=€6.50 | content=The museum retraces the operations of the British Sixth Airborne. }} * {{see | name=Site D’Ouistreham | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This beautiful seaside resort town has a legacy of fortifications, memorials, museums and military cemeteries, that stand at ease between beach hotels, fine stretches of sand, breezy cliffs and postcard-picturesque fishing harbours. There are several monuments in the town including the Free French monument, Royal Navy and Royal Marines monument, 13th/18th Royal Hussars monument, and N°4 Commando plaques. The Kieffer monument stands atop a German bunker and is named for the Commando Lieutenant who led the attack that took it. }} * {{see | name=Musée Nr 4 Commando | alt=N° 4 Commando Museum | url= | email= | address=Place Alfred Thomas, 14150 Ouistreham | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 96 63 10 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=In this museum one can see scale models, weapons, and uniforms to retrace the story of the Franco-British Commandos who landed on Sword Beach.}} * {{see | name=Musée du Mur de L’Atlantique | alt=Atlantic Wall Museum | url=http://www.musee-grand-bunker.com | email= | address=av du 6 Juin, 14150 Ouistreham | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 97 28 69 | fax= | hours= | price=€7 | content=In a former artillery range-finding post on the Atlantic Wall, this 17 m high concrete tower is the only one of its kind and has been restored and re-equipped to its original state.}} * {{see | name=Site de Lion-sur-Mer | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Monuments include the Liberation monument, Royal Engineers Corps monument, and 41st Royal Marine Commando stele.}} * {{see | name=Site de Colleville-Montgomery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A plaque is located on the Hillman Battery main blockhouse in memory of the 1st Battalion the Suffolk Regiment soldiers. There is also a General Montgomery statue and the Provisional Cemetery, Kieffer and Montgomery monument.}} * {{see | name=Site D’Hermanville | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Monuments in the area include 3rd Infantry Division and South Lancashire monument, Royal Artillery monument, Allied headquarters and Field hospital plaques, and Allied Navy sailors monument. The British Cemetery Hermanville-sur-Mer, where 1,003 soldiers rest is close to Hermanville-sur-Mer.}} * {{see | name=Musée Du Radar | alt=Radar Museum | url= | email= | address=Route de Basly 14440 Douvres la Délivrande | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 06 06 45 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the site of a German fortified radar base, the museum explains the evolution and operation of radar. Outside one can observe a German radar Würzburg.}} There are two Commonwealth cemeteries near this beach; see the [[#Cemeteries|cemeteries]] section for details. ===Juno Beach=== [[File:Follow-up waves of the 9th Canadian Infantry Brigade disembarking with bicycles from landing craft onto 'Nan White' sector of Juno Beach at Bernieres-sur-Mer, 6 June 1944. A23938.jpg|thumb|Second-wave Canadians at Bernières, bringing bicycles to move inland quickly]] Juno beach is five miles wide and includes the towns of St. Aubin-sur-Mer, Bernières-sur-Mer and Courseulles-sur-Mer. The Canadian 3rd Infantry Division and 2nd Armoured Brigade landed here and fought their way across the beaches and into the towns. The No. 48 Royal Marine Commando secured the left flank at Langrune-sur-Mer. The coastline bristled with guns, concrete emplacements, pillboxes, fields of barbed wire and mines. The opposition the Canadians faced as they landed was stronger than at any other beach except Omaha. * {{see | name=Site de Langrune-sur-Mer | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Langrune-sur-Mer | content=In the town center, on the sea front is the 48th Royal Marine Commando monument. In the entrance hall of the city hall there is a plaque in memory of the friendship between the 48th Royal Marines Commando veterans and the citizens of Langrune-sur-Mer. }} * {{see | name=Site de Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.332427 | long=-0.394341 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer, Calvados | content=A 50-mm gun casement has been preserved at Place du Canada. There are stone memorials to the North Shore (New Brunswick) Regiment, Fort Garry Horse, and 48th Royal Marine Commando here. }} [[File:Bernieres-sur-mer-monument-debarquement.jpg|right|thumb|D-Day Memorial, near Bernières-sur-Mer, Juno Beach]] * {{see | name=Site de Bernières-sur-Mer | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.335400 | long=-0.422858 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This pretty seaside village is distinguished by its church with a 13th century bell tower and 67 m (220 ft) spire. La Maison Queen's Own Rifles of Canada commemorates the men of this regiment. The house is one of the famous houses on the beach as it appeared in many newsreels and official photos. Memorials to the Queen's Own Rifles, Le Regiment de la Chaudière, and Fort Garry Horse are by a German bunker at La Place du Canada. There is an excellent view of the beach from the bunker position and you can imagine what it must have been like when 800 men of the Queens's Own Rifles stormed ashore here as the lead wave of the dramatic D-Day assault. There are also the North Nova Scotia Highlanders plaque and Journalists HQ plaque. There is a walkway on the seawall that makes for a pleasant stroll along the ocean. If you walk east along the seawall about ½ km, you can see the house that appears in the background on the famous film footage showing the Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada storming the beach on D-Day. }} [[File:Charcourseullessurmer.jpg|right|thumb|Sherman Duplex Drive tank]] * {{see | name=Site de Courseulles-sur-Mer | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=In the Courseulles-sur-Mer town centre, on the sea front there is a Sherman Duplex Drive (DD) tank on display. These tanks were partly amphibious, capable of swimming ashore from their landing craft; the soldiers interpreted "DD" as "Donald Duck". This tank was recovered in 1970 from the sea and restored. Badges of regimental units who fought in the area are welded to it.<br/>Monuments in the area include the Royal Winnipeg Rifles monument, Regina Rifles Regiment stele, Canadian Scottish Regiment stele, Royal Engineers plaque, and the Liberation and De Gaulle monument.<br/>The Croix de Lorraine monument commemorates the return of General de Gaulle to France. }} * {{see | name=Centre Juno Beach | alt=Juno Beach Centre | url=http://www.junobeach.org/ | email= | address=voie des Français Libres, 14470 Courseulles-sur-Mer | lat=49.336389 | long=-0.461667 | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 37 32 17 | tollfree= | hours= | price=€7 | wikipedia=Juno Beach Centre | wikidata=Q12060923 | content=The Juno Beach Centre presents Canada's role in military operations and the war effort on the home front in World War II. Film, audio and displays bring pre-war and wartime Canada alive, as well as covering the fighting experiences. Juno Park at the front of the centre has walkways with interpretation panels, a preserved German bunker, and a path leading to the beach. There is little development here, so nothing interrupts your contemplation of beach and ocean. You can imagine the sands littered with mines-on-sticks, spiky metal “hedgehogs”, barbed wire and other barbarisms intended to rip the heart out of landing craft and the 14,000 Canadians that landed in this area. }} * {{see | name=Site de Graye-sur-Mer | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Monuments include the Liberation monument, Churchill "One Charlie" tank, breakthrough plaque, Royal Winnipeg Rifles, and 1st Canadian Scottish plaque, Canadian plaque, and Inns of Court monument. }} There is a Canadian cemetery near this beach; see the [[#Cemeteries|cemeteries]] section. ''Star Trek'' enthusiasts may be interested to know that James Doonan &mdash; the actor who played Scotty in the original series &mdash; was a Canadian officer who was wounded on this beach. ===Gold Beach=== Gold beach is more than 5 miles wide and includes the towns of La Rivière, Le Hamel and [[Arromanches-les-Bains]]. The British 50th Infantry Division and 8th Armoured Brigade landed here. The 47th Royal Marine Commando landed on the western flank with the objective to take Port-en-Bessin. * {{see | name=Musée America Gold Beach | alt=America Gold Beach Museum | url= | email= | address=2, Place Amiral Byrd, 14114 Ver-sur-Mer | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 22 58 58 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This museum recounts the 1st airmail flight between the USA and France, together with a retrospective of the D-Day Landing and the British beachhead on Gold Beach.}} [[File:Arromanches-mulberry-3.jpg|right|thumb|Gold Beach overlooking Arromanches, site of the Mulberry harbour]] * {{see | name=Arromanches 360 | alt= | url=http://www.arromanches360.com | email= | address=Chemin du Calvaire, 14117 Arromanches | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 22 30 30 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The film ''The Price Of Freedom'' impressively mixes archived film from June 1944 with present day pictures and is presented on 9 screens in a circular theater.}} * {{see | name=Mulberry harbour | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=At [[Arromanches]], you’re looking down a stretch of Gold Beach and site of the Mulberry harbour. The invasion needed a port to bring in supplies on a huge scale. So the allies built concrete pontoons that were towed across the channel and sunk to form the port’s outer perimeter. Twenty of the original 115 pontoons still defy the waves.}} * {{see | name=Musée du Débarquement | alt=The Landing Museum | url=http://www.musee-arromanches.fr/accueil/index.php?lang=uk | email= | address=Place du 6 Juin, 14117 Arromanches | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 22 34 31 | fax= | hours= | price=£3.90 | content=In front of the actual vestiges of the Mulberries, this museum is devoted to the incredible feat of technology achieved by the British in building and setting up the artificial harbour. Period newsreel movies in English and French. Impressive dynamic scale-models showing how the floating docks rolled with the waves and tides. A 75-foot section of Mulberry floating bridge on display outside. Military equipment is on display outside, including an American half-track and a Higgins boat.}} [[File:Longues-sur-Mer Battery.jpg|right|thumb|The Longues-sur-Mer battery housed four 150mm guns with a range of 20 km]] * {{see | name=Longues-sur-Mer Battery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Longues-sur-Mer | lat=49.343 | long=0.695 | directions=Access from the D514 road (follow the road-signs) | phone=+33 2 31 06 06 45 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This battery housed four 150mm guns with a range of 20 km. On June 6th it pounded the beaches some and exchanged fire with both British and French cruisers and a WWI vintage American battleship. It was also bombed. At noon on June 7th it surrendered to British troops. It is the only coastal battery to have kept its guns, giving an impressive picture of what an Atlantic Wall gun emplacement was really like. }} * {{see | name=Site de Port-en-Bessin | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A monument in memory of the 47th Royal Marine Commando soldiers who were killed during the liberation of Port-en-Bessin and Asnelles is on top of the cliff, on the west side of the harbor.}} * {{see | name=Musée des épaves sous-marines | alt=Underwater Wrecks Museum | url= | email= | address=Route de Bayeux-Commes, 14520 Port-en-Bessin | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 21 17 06 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This museum presents recovered wrecks and artifacts from more than twenty-five years of under-water exploration, in the coastal landing area. Debris includes a Sherman tank. }} The Bayeux War Cemetery is not far inland of this beach, and the Bayeaux Memorial near it commemorates soldiers with no known grave. See the [[#Cemeteries|cemeteries]] section for details. ===Omaha Beach=== [[File:2nd Infantry Division, E-1 draw, Easy Red sector, Omaha Beach, D+1, June 7, 1944.jpg|thumb|US Army 2nd Infantry Division marching up the bluff at Omaha Beach, on D+1, June 7, 1944 ]] [[File:Cratères à la pointe du Hoc.jpg|right|thumb|Pointe-du-Hoc Bomb Craters]] Omaha beach is overlooked by bluffs which rise to 150 feet (46&nbsp;m) and command the beaches. These naturally strong defensive positions had been skillfully fortified with concrete gun emplacements, anti-tank guns and machine guns. In particular the guns at Pointe du Hoc were in position to be deadly, although they weren't actually firing on D-Day and it was Maisy battery that continued to fire onto both American beaches for three days. Allied bombing left these largely undamaged, and since there was no cover on the beach, this tranquil strand of beach became a killing field. Within a mile to the rear of the beach lay the fortified villages of Colleville-sur-Mer, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer and Vierville-sur-Mer. The US 1st Infantry Division had the most difficult landing of the whole Allied assault on D-Day and took around 2,000 casualties. One reason was the terrain, another that they faced the only German division on the coast which had a full complement of German troops. There were four divisions on the Cotentin Peninsula and several defending the British and Canadian beaches to the east, but those divisions were either below strength or composed partly of Russian, Polish and other forced conscripts. The Omaha Beach landing is shown in the Oscar-winning film ''Saving Private Ryan'' and, unlike much from Hollywood, the battle scenes are quite realistic. However, the landing sequences were filmed on beaches in [[County Wexford]], Ireland which bear little physical resemblance to the beaches in Normandy. * {{see | name=1st Infantry Division Monument | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A monument dedicated to the “Big Red One”, the US 1st Infantry Division, is on the sea front, within walking distance from the American cemetery. Other monuments in the area include the 5th Engineer Special Brigade Memorial, and plaques commemorating the American armoured vehicles that passed through here.}} * {{see | name=2nd Infantry Division Monument | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.36448 | long=-0.86366 | directions=Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A monument dedicated to the US 2nd Infantry Division is on the sea front, by the German defensive bunker, Widerstandsnest 65 (WN 65), that defended the route up the Ruquet Valley to Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer. }} [[File:2nd Infantry Division Monument, Omaha Beach, WN 65.jpg|thumb|upright=.7|2nd Infantry Division Monument]] * {{see | name=Musée Mémorial d’Omaha Beach | alt=Omaha Beach Memorial Museum | url=http://www.musee-memorial-omaha.com | email= | address=av de la Libération, 14710 Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 21 97 44 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This museum has a fine collection of uniforms, weapons, personal objects and vehicles. Dioramas, photos, and maps together with a film featuring veterans’ testimonies explain the landings at Omaha Beach and at Pointe du Hoc. A landing ship, Sherman tank and "Long Tom" 155 mm gun are on display outside.}} * {{see | name=Musée D-Day Omaha | alt=Omaha D-Day Museum | url=http://www.dday-omaha.fr/en/ | email= | address=Route de Grandcamp-Maisy, 14710 Vierville-sur-Mer | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 21 71 80 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Devoted to the landing on Omaha Beach. Various equipment is displayed including: vehicles, weapons, radios, and engineer equipment. }} * {{see | name=Site de Vierville-sur-Mer | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Monuments here include the 29th US Infantry Division stele, National Guard monument, 6th Engineer Special Brigade stele, 29th DI Engineer plate, 81st CM battalion, and 110th FA bat. Plates, 5th Rangers Battalion plate, 58th Armored Field Battalion stele, boundary marker in memory of the 58th Artillery Battalion. Along the coastal road, 500 m from Les Moulins, is a monument on the site of the first American cemetery in Normandy on Omaha Beach. The soldiers interred there were later moved to the military cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer. The beach's desolation makes it a powerful site to imagine soldiers battling on the sand, completely vulnerable to German artillery. }} [[File:Pointe du Hoc Ranger Monument.jpg|right|thumb|Monument, Pointe-du-Hoc]] * {{see | name=La Pointe du Hoc | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A rocky headland towering over the beaches, La Pointe du Hoc has become a symbol of the courage of American troops. Here, Germans had placed bunkers and artillery. The positions were bombed, shelled and then attacked by 225 US Rangers, who scaled the 35 m rock wall, besieged the bunkers, and finally took them, only to find there were no guns at all. The guns had been dismantled and hidden in an orchard inland. Only 90 rangers were still standing at the summit. Today, bomb and shell craters remain. There is a monument in memory of the 2nd Ranger Battalion, who assaulted and captured La Pointe du Hoc battery. The memorial is built on a control firing casemate where bodies of the soldiers still lie under the ruins.}} * {{see | name=Musée des Batteries de Maisy | alt=Ranger Objective | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Grandcamp Maisy | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-06-01 | content=This outdoor German group of artillery batteries and HQ has been preserved and is camouflaged in over 14 hectares of land close to Grandcamp Maisy. The site covered the Omaha Sector and opened fire at Omaha Beach and Pointe du Hoc on the morning of D-day. The US 29th Division as well as the 5th and 2nd Rangers attacked the site on 9 June 1944 and after heavy fighting they captured the position. It is the largest German position in the invasion area and has original field guns, Landing craft and other D-day objects on display. American Rangers monument is on the site. }} There is an American cemetery near this beach; see the [[#Cemeteries|cemeteries]] section. ===Utah Beach=== Utah beach, the most westerly of the five beaches and the only one in Manche, was attacked by the US 4th Infantry Division. Due to navigational errors, the landings all took place on the south part of the beach which happened to be less well defended. Airborne troops landed through the night to secure the invasion’s western flank and to open the roads for their colleagues landing by sea at dawn. The objective was to cut the [[#Cotentin_Peninsula|Cotentin Peninsula]] off from the rest of France and take the port of [[Cherbourg]]. * {{see | name=Dead Man's Corner Museum | alt= | url=http://www.paratrooper-museum.org | email= | address=2 Village de l'Amont - 50500 Saint Come du Mont | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 33 42 00 42 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1180821 | content=At the point where the 101st Airborne Division encountered the Green Devils (the German paratroopers) you can get an insight into the battle for Carentan on the site which has remained largely intact. }} * {{see | name=Musée Airborne | alt=Airborne Museum | url=http://www.airborne-museum.org/ | email= | address=14 rue Eisenhower - 50480 Sainte-Mère-Église | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 33 41 41 35 | tollfree= | hours= | price=£2.85 | wikidata=Q3329035 | content=The story of D-Day is told in pictures and mementos of the American 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions. On display are a Douglas C-47, a Waco glider, a Sherman tank, several artillery pieces, vehicles, equipment, many small arms, uniforms and historic objects. Film. One of the best D-Day museums to strike a balance between an extensive collection of artifacts together with explanations and context. }} [[File:Normandy '10- Ste Mere Eglise La Fiere Bridge (4823099763).jpg|thumb|Statue on a bridge in Ste-Mère-Église]] * {{see | name=[[Sainte-Mère-Église]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q273393 | content=This is perhaps the most famous "D-day village" of all. Street panels around Ste Mère-Eglise explain the operations of the US paratroopers. In the square, a parachute effigy still dangles from the church, commemorating what happened to John Steele when his parachute snagged on the spire. Inside the church is a stained glass window featuring the Virgin and child, surrounded by paratroopers. Monuments in the area include the 82nd Airborne plate, 505th Parachute regiment stele, and Sainte-Mère-Église liberators stele. Parts of the village are portrayed in the film ''The Longest Day''. }} * {{see | name=Musée du Débarquement | alt=Utah Beach Landing Museum | url=http://www.utah-beach.com | email= | address=Ste Marie-du-Mont, | lat= | long= | directions=opposite the beach on the Utah site | phone=+33 2 33 71 53 35 | fax= | hours= | price=£2.70 | content=This museum uses film, documents and models to recall D-Day in a unique and innovative manner. Several armored vehicles, equipment and a landing ship are on display.}} * {{see | name=Monuments located by the Utah Beach Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=American Soldier's Monument, 4th Infantry Division Monument, 90th Infantry Division Monument, VIIth Corps headquarters plaque, Coast Guard plaque, and US Navy plaque.}} * {{see | name=Batterie d’Azeville | alt=Azeville Battery | url= | email= | address=La Rue - 50310 Azeville | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 33 40 63 05 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2891700 | content=Near Ste Mère-Eglise, the Azeville Battery consisted of a dozen casemates, including four blockhouses with 105mm heavy guns, 350 m of underground tunnels, underground rooms and ammunition storage. The position was held by 170 German gunners. Guided tours of the Azeville battery offer insight into the German coastal defenses and the battle that took place here. }} * {{see | name=Musée de la Batterie de Crisbecq | alt=Crisbecq Gun Battery Museum | url= | email= | address=Route des Manoirs, Saint-Marcouf | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 6 86 10 80 59 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q325370 | content=The Crisbeq Gun Battery was one of the largest German coastal artillery batteries located on Utah Beach. There are 21 blockhouses linked by more than 1 km of trenches and restored recreation rooms, hospital, and kitchens. }} * {{see | name=Mémorial de la Liberté Retrouvée | alt=Museum of Freedom Regained | url= | email= | address=18, av de la Plage, 50310 Quinéville | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 33 95 95 95 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This museum recalls the French peoples daily life during the German occupation until the liberation. }} ==The technical side== [[File:LST-21 unloads tanks during Normandy Invasion, June 1944 (26-G-2370).jpg|thumb|British tanks roll off an American LST]] The war effort, including this invasion, got fine support from a range of scientists, engineers, technicians and workers in all the Allied countries. Some of the most important developments were: * {{see | name=Landing Ship, Tank | alt=LST | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Landing Ship, Tank | content=These ships were designed by the Americans, with some British input, and built mainly in the US. They were first used in [[World War II in Africa|North Africa]], then in the invasions of Sicily and mainland Italy. On D-day, all the Allies used them. Most were manned by the US Navy. }} :For infantry, the US and UK each had a different system consisting of a large ship (US Attack transport, British Landing ship, infantry) which, unlike the LST, was not designed to go to the beach itself, only to deliver smaller landing craft to a position near the beach. * {{see | name=Radar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q47528 | content=Between the two world wars, several countries researched this. Early in WW II the British had the most advanced systems and put them to good use in the Battle of Britain. Once the US entered the war, they were shown the British innovations and made some of their own. By the time of D-Day, Germany and Russia both had radar as well. }} * {{see | name=Mulberry harbours | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Mulberry harbour | wikidata=Q426875 | content=These were a British invention, prefabricated concrete caissons that could be towed across the Channel and sunk to create docks, breakwaters and so on for a temporary harbour. Two were built, one on the British [[#Gold Beach]] and one on the American [[#Omaha Beach]], but the American one was destroyed by a storm. }} [[File:Armoured_Ramp_Carrier_02.jpg|thumb|A tank that transforms into a bridge]] * {{see | name=Hobart's Funnies | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Hobart's Funnies | wikidata=Q716180 | content=The amphibious DD tanks mentioned at [[#Site de Courseulles-sur-Mer]] and the flamethrower tank outside the [[#Musée Mémorial de la Bataille de Normandie]] in Bayeux were two of several types of unusual armour developed specifically for the Normandy landings. Others were designed for clearing minefields, for creating a bridge, or for destroying fortifications either by rolling up and planting explosive charges or by hammering them from a distance with a 230mm mortar.<br />The British general Percy Hobart was in charge of their design and crew training. On the day, he was in command of the 79th Armoured Division which provided the crews. They were used on all the beaches, and later in the war, supporting all the Allies. }} The British "Ultra" group at [[Bletchley Park]] broke nearly all the German codes used in this war and provided crucial intelligence to Allied field commanders. ==Normandy campaign== The successful landing was a turning point in [[World War II in Europe|World War II]], a major step toward the defeat of Nazi Germany; after D-Day, the Allies went on to liberate all of Europe. On the Western Front, the three main participants were the US, Britain and Canada. On the Eastern Front, [[Soviet Union|Soviet]] forces continued to drive forward relentlessly as they had been doing since long before D-Day. To the south, Allied forces had [[World War II in Africa|driven the Axis out of North Africa]] in 1943, then invaded Italy; they took Rome a few days before D-Day. D-Day (June 6) was the start of a '''campaign in Normandy''' that lasted until late August. Those interested in wartime history may wish to visit the sites of the other main battles of that campaign, described below. Meanwhile an attempt to assassinate Hitler on July 20, 1944 led to at least 7,000 arrests and almost 5,000 executions. Some of the plotters were senior officers and the repercussions greatly disrupted the German military. Among others, Rommel was forced into suicide. ===Around Caen=== [[File:Infantrymen of The Regina Rifle Regiment outside a damaged building, Caen, France, 10 July 1944.jpg|thumb|Canadians in Caen, early July]] [[Caen]] is symbolically important as the capital of the Calvados department and the largest city in [[Lower Normandy]], and was strategically important as the transport hub of the region. The allies attacked it forcefully, and the Germans reinforced it heavily; at one point they had nine armored divisions plus infantry and artillery in and around the town. The British and Canadians fought house-to-house in Caen itself and pressed hard in nearby areas, but did not gain full control of the town and environs until mid-July. By the end of the battle, much of the city was reduced to rubble and nearby villages were also heavily damaged. The airfield at [[Carpiquet]], just west of Caen, was one of the first Canadian objectives after D-Day, but it was defended by an entire SS panzer division plus other troops and the Canucks were beaten back. Both sides sent reinforcements and there was heavy fighting around the town until the Allies finally took it in early July. *{{see | name=Ardenne Abbey | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.1965 | long=-0.4139 | directions=Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, between Caen and Carpiquet | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ardenne Abbey massacre | wikidata=Q22947455 | content=Twenty Canadian prisoners were shot by Waffen SS troops in the abbey courtyard in early June; over 150 Canadian prisoners were killed during the Normandy campaign. The regimental commander, Kurt Meyer, was using the Abbey as his headquarters at the time and was later convicted of war crimes. }} ===Cotentin Peninsula=== [[File:Liberation de Cherbourg le maire felicite les americains.jpg|thumb|The mayor of Cherbourg greets American General Collins]] There was heavy fighting on the [[Cotentin Peninsula]], west of the beaches, shortly after D-Day. The Allies urgently needed the port of [[Cherbourg]] at the tip of the peninsula, and sent an American force to take it. The Americans faced quite a difficult fight; four German divisions were on the peninsula, and the ''bocage'' terrain there is largely unsuitable for tanks so a lot of hard foot slogging was required. Hitler, against his generals' advice, insisted that German forces defend the whole peninsula rather than withdrawing to strong positions around the city. They did that and made the Americans fight for every bit of ground, with heavy casualties on both sides. Later Hitler commanded the defenders to fight to the last man, sacrificing themselves for the Fatherland. However when the situation became hopeless, General von Schlieben fought a delaying action while his troops demolished the port, then surrendered rather than let his remaining men die pointless deaths. Cherbourg fell at the end of June; it was the first major French city liberated, and Caen the second. After Cherbourg, the Americans turned south to take [[Saint-Lô]] at the base of the peninsula against stiff opposition; the town was thoroughly destroyed. Other units swept down the West side of the peninsula taking [[Coutances]], [[Granville (Normandy)|Granville]] and [[Avranches]]. ===American breakout=== The American victories on the peninsula got them out into open territory more suited for tanks, and they then moved quickly in several directions. [[File:Normandybreakout.jpg|thumb|American breakout]] By this time nearly all German reserves had been committed in unsuccessful attempts to hold Caen and Saint-Lô, and many German formations had been badly chewed up. Some German units were tied down fighting the British and Canadians, four whole divisions had been wiped out by the Americans on the peninsula, and both the French Resistance and Allied bombing raids disrupted German efforts to bring in reinforcements. Also, the Germans were in quite deep trouble on the Eastern front, and they did not have anywhere near enough resources for both fronts. The Americans had both more tanks and far better air support than the enemy; they used these advantages to full effect in a textbook example of fast-moving armoured tactics, similar to the ''blitzkrieg'' (lightning war) with which the Germans had devastated several countries a few years earlier. Part of the American force swung west to take [[Brittany]] with little resistance. Other units &mdash; most of the American force plus three British armoured divisions &mdash; moved south to [[Nantes]] and [[Angers]] on the Loire and east to [[Le Mans]] and [[Alençon]], despite much more serious opposition. In early August they took part in the battle around Falaise, and by the end of August they had liberated [[Paris]]. ===Falaise=== The '''decisive battle''' of the Normandy campaign was fought around [[Falaise]], some distance inland of Caen, starting in early August. [[File:Falaise_Pocket_map.jpg|thumb|The Falaise pocket]] Over 100,000 German troops were almost surrounded in the "Falaise Pocket". Commonwealth forces by now held everything around Caen on the north side and the British had taken the area around [[Vire]] on the west, while the rapid American advance had put them on the south side. Among other German forces, the pocket had those retreating after defeats in the intense battles for Caen, Saint-Lô and Vire. The Allies hammered them from the air and with artillery, pressed in with armour and infantry, and hoped to completely surround them by closing off the only exit, the "Falaise Gap" on the east. To close the gap the Canadians, and the Polish armoured division deployed with them, thrust south near Falaise and Americans moved north in the [[Argentan]] area. However the by-now-desperate Germans fought hard to keep the gap open and escape through it; there was '''about two weeks of extremely heavy fighting''' before it was finally closed. Falaise is a '''distinctly controversial battle'''; two decisions by the senior generals kept the Allies from closing the gap sooner and having an even larger victory: * Patton's Americans were ordered to stop their advance and dig in near Argentan, rather than risk over-extending their lines by continuing north to join up with the Canadians. One reason for this was that the Allies knew from the code breakers at [[Milton Keynes#Q155921|Bletchley Park]] that the Germans were planning an attack near Argentan. * The British reserves were not sent to reinforce the Canadians who appealed urgently for them. These decisions were heatedly debated at the time; Patton and the Canadian generals were furious. Even with the benefit of hindsight, experts still disagree over whether they were sensible and prudent or foolish and costly. The Canadians and Poles &mdash; unassisted on the ground, though they did get plenty of air support &mdash; could neither close the gap completely nor hold against German efforts to batter their way out. They did try and got quite badly mauled; they lost more men around Falaise than they had in the landings and the fierce fight for Caen. There were many panzer divisions in the pocket; by now all were badly damaged but they could still mount devastating thrusts against chosen targets. The Canadians linked up with US forces on August 17th, closing the gap, but then the panzers smashed through and it was not until August 21st that the gap was closed for good. On the German side, Hitler overruled the generals who wanted to conduct an orderly retreat early in the battle, ordering them instead to hold their ground and even mount counterattacks (the red arrows on the map). Most historians believe the generals were right, a German defeat was inevitable, and Hitler's interference only made it worse. In particular, ordering tanks withdrawn from the defense of Falaise for use in his counterattacks allowed a Canadian advance. [[File:Panther mont ormel 03.jpg|thumb|Devastation near Falaise]] The battle was utterly devastating to the countryside. {{quote|I was conducted through it on foot, to encounter scenes that could be described only by Dante. It was literally possible to walk for hundreds of yards at a time, stepping on nothing but dead and decaying flesh.|author=Eisenhower}} '''Falaise was a major Allied victory'''; about 10,000 Germans were killed and 50,000 surrounded and forced to surrender; some did escape to fight on, but they lost nearly all their equipment and many were wounded. After Falaise, the Germans had no effective force west of the Seine and what troops they did have in the area were in full retreat; Paris was liberated only days later. ===Overall result=== The campaign in Normandy that began with D-Day and ended with Falaise was a major success for the Allies. Their losses were heavy &mdash; about 200,000 killed, missing, wounded or captured &mdash; but German losses were more than twice that. Both sides lost many tanks, guns, vehicles and other supplies, but at this stage of the war the Allies could better afford those losses. ==After Normandy== After Normandy, Allied forces drove toward [[Paris]] from Normandy and the [[Pays de la Loire]] which the Americans had taken after breaking out of the peninsula. After Falaise, the German forces in the area were in severe disarray and the Allies still had air superiority so the advance was rapid. The German garrison in Paris surrendered on August 25. [[File:American troops march down Champs-Elysees HD-SN-99-02719.JPG|thumb|American troops in Paris]] Meanwhile American and Free French forces, plus some British paratroopers, invaded southern France (east of [[Marseilles]]) in mid-August. Between that and the victories in the north, they soon liberated much of France. After that, the British and Americans drove through eastern France and then into central Germany, aiming for Berlin. The Canadians took the left flank, liberating coastal parts of France, then Belgium, Holland and the North Sea coast of Germany. In the last few days of the war a Canadian parachute battalion who had been among the first to land on D-Day were sent on a mad dash to take [[Wismar]] on Germany's Baltic coast, getting there just in time to prevent the [[Soviet Union|Soviets]] from taking that region and possibly [[Denmark]]. After Falaise and the liberation of Paris, the Germans regrouped and were able to put up a stiff resistance and even mount some counterattacks; the Allied advance slowed down, but it was unstoppable. Caught between the Russians on the east and the Western Allies on the west, losing on both fronts and being heavily bombed as well, Germany surrendered less than a year after D-Day, in early May 1945. ==Cemeteries== Beautiful [[cemeteries]] overlook the sea and countryside and are essential stops along the way to understand and reflect on the human cost of the war. This was enormous; around 100,000 soldiers (about 60,000 German and 40,000 Allied) died in Normandy during the summer of 1944. There were also air, naval and civilian deaths, plus large numbers wounded or captured. We list the cemeteries in two groups; the first four near the coast and the rest further inland. Order within each group is east-to-west. [[Image:Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery (8).JPG|thumb|Beny-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, Reviers]] * {{see | name=Ranville War Cemetery | alt= | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2033500/RANVILLE%20WAR%20CEMETERY | email= | address=5357 Rue du Comté Louis de Rohan Chabot | lat=49.23113 | long=-0.25776 | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This cemetery has mainly men of the British 6th Airborne Division who made parachute and glider landings in the area on D-Day. There are 2,235 Commonwealth graves (the division had a Canadian battalion), plus 330 German and a few others.}} *{{see | name=Hermanville War Cemetery | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2033000/HERMANVILLE%20WAR%20CEMETERY | lat=49.286 | long=-0.309 | content=This cemetery has 1,003 graves, mainly of British troops who fell in the first few days of the invasion. }} *{{see | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2004600/BENY-SUR-MER%20CANADIAN%20WAR%20CEMETERY,%20REVIERS | name=Beny-sur-mer Canadian War Cemetery | lat=49.304 | long=-0.45 | content=Just over 2,000 Canadians are buried here; nearly all of them fell during the landings or shortly after. The cemetery is near the village of Reviers, about 18 km east of Bayeux.}} [[Image:Flickr - DVIDSHUB - USACAPOC(A) remembers D-Day (Image 3 of 7).jpg|thumb|American Cemetery, Colleville-sur-Mer]] *{{see | name=Normandy American Cemetery | url=https://www.abmc.gov/cemeteries-memorials/europe/normandy-american-cemetery | email= | address= | lat=49.3591555 | long=-0.85316111 | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 51 62 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-18:00 | price= | content=Overlooking Omaha Beach, this 172.5 acre (70 hectare) cemetery contains the graves of 9,387 American soldiers. The rows of perfectly aligned headstones against the immaculate, emerald green lawn convey an unforgettable feeling of peace and tranquility. The beaches can be viewed from the bluffs above, and there is a path down to the beach. On the Walls of the Missing in a semicircular garden on the east side of the memorial are inscribed 1,557 names. Rosettes mark the names of those since recovered and identified.}} *{{see | name=Banneviile-la-Campagne War Cemetery | lat=49.1755 | long=-0.229 | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2101000/BANNEVILLE-LA-CAMPAGNE%20WAR%20CEMETERY | content=This cemetery has 2,170 Commonwealth dead and five Poles. Most fell after the capture of Caen in mid-July.}} *{{see | name=Grainville-Langannerie Polish Cemetery | lat=49.0230 | long=-0.2706 | content=This is the only Polish war cemetery in France. It has the graves of 696 soldiers from the Polish armoured division who fought alongside the Canadians in Normandy; most fell in the fight around the Falaise Gap. }} *{{see | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2032600/Bretteville-sur-Laize%20Canadian%20War%20Cemetery | name=Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery | lat=49.06 |long=-0.292 | content=This cemetery is near Falaise and has 2871 Canadians, most of whom fell in the fight to close the Falaise Gap.}} *{{see | name=Saint Manvieu War Cemetery | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2004800/ST.%20MANVIEU%20WAR%20CEMETERY,%20CHEUX | lat=49.1780 | long=-0.5143 | content=This cemetery has 1,627 Commonwealth graves and 555 German. It is near the airport at [[Carpiquet]] and has mainly men who fell in the fierce battles over that.}} *{{see | name=Bayeux War Cemetery | alt= | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2033300/BAYEUX%20WAR%20CEMETERY | email= | address= | lat=49.274 | long=-0.7143 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-03-21 | content=The largest British cemetery of the Second World War in France, containing the graves of over 4,400 Commonwealth soldiers, mostly British, and 500 others, mostly German. The Bayeux Memorial stands opposite the cemetery and bears the names of 1,808 Commonwealth soldiers who have no known grave. The cemetery is about a 15-minute walk from Bayeux train station. }} *{{see | name=La Cambe German War Cemetery | alt= | url=http://www.normandie-tourisme.fr/Cimetiere-Militaire-Allemand/PCU/LA-CAMBE/fiche-PCUNOR014FS0007M-2.html | email= | address= | lat=49.3428 | long=-1.0266 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This site has the graves of 23,400 German soldiers, most of whom fell in the Normandy campaign. See also the [http://www.volksbund.de/kriegsgraeberstaette/la-cambe.html German government site]. }} *{{see | name=Orglandes German War Cemetery | url=http://www.normandie-tourisme.fr/pcu/cimetiere-militaire-allemand/orglandes/fiche-PCUNOR050FS0007T-2.html | lat=49.426 | long=-1.449 | content=This cemetery has just over 10,000 German graves, including many who fell in the defense of the Cotentin Peninsula. [http://www.volksbund.de/kriegsgraeberstaette/orglandesmanche.html German government site]}} Nearly all the dead in these cemeteries fell sometime between the invasion on June 6 and the end of the Falaise battle in mid-August. ==Go next== From this area, one might go anywhere in [[France]] or across the channel to the [[UK]]. [[Normandy]] is a major tourist area with a range of attractions, as are nearby [[Brittany]], the [[Pays de la Loire]], and the [[Channel Islands]]. Other places of possible interest to war buffs are the scenes of two Allied raids on the German-held French coast in 1942. A predominantly Canadian force attacked [[Dieppe]], further north on the Normandy coast, and British commandos raided [[Saint-Nazaire]], near [[Nantes]] to the south. Losses were extremely heavy in both places and arguably both raids were disasters, though the Saint-Nazaire attack did knock out an important drydock for the rest of the war. On the other hand, it is often claimed that these raids were essential preparation for D-Day, tests of German defenses that gave intelligence required for planning the invasion. People interested in earlier history can see sites associated with ''Duke William IV of Normandy'', who invaded England in 1066 and is known there as '''William the Conqueror'''. He was born in [[Falaise]] and is buried in [[Caen]] which was his capital; his castle is now a tourist attraction. His invasion fleet sailed from [[Bayeux]] and a museum there has a famous tapestry depicting his conquest of England. {{PartOfTopic|World War II in Europe}} {{guidetopic}} {{geo|49.35|-.75|zoom=9}} 5th0wtik0qs5226d3rjn4kn5ce6kt0k 5288893 5288891 2026-06-06T16:11:32Z Pashley 1822 /* The technical side */ 5288893 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|D day banner.jpg|ftt=yes|caption=American 1st Infantry Division (the Big Red One) wading onto Omaha Beach}} The [https://en.normandie-tourisme.fr/discover/history/d-day-and-the-battle-of-normandy/ '''D-Day Beaches'''] are in the [[Calvados]] and [[Manche]] departments of [[Normandy]], [[France]]. They were the landing places for the Allied invasion of western Europe during [[World War II in Europe|World War II]]. An excellent time to visit is on the June 6th anniversary when there are numerous memorial ceremonies to mark the occasion. A large number of [[reenactment]] groups attend, adding pageantry and atmosphere. The church bells ring in the towns to celebrate the anniversary of their liberation. The French people will be happy to see you - these people remember, and the welcome will be warm. It has been a long time since 1944 and not many of the old soldiers survive, but those that do often return to these beaches on June 6th. For the 70th anniversary in 2014, 90-year-old Royal Navy veteran Bernard Jordan was denied permission to leave his nursing home because of his health; he snuck out and got on a ferry to France anyway. Two elderly paratroopers, a 93-year-old American and an 89-year-old Briton, jumped into France that day as they had 70 years earlier. ==Understand== : ''See [[World War II in Europe]] for context.'' On 6 June 1944 (D-Day), the long-awaited invasion of Northwest Europe (Operation Overlord) began with Allied landings on the coast of [[Normandy]] (Operation Neptune). [[Image:Flickr - DVIDSHUB - Reflection on D-Day.jpg|thumb|300px|American troops going in<br/>The high ground visible here made the landing on Omaha Beach especially difficult]] The task was formidable, for the Germans had turned the coastlininto an interlinked series of strongpoints with artillery, machine guns, pillboxes, barbed wire, land mines, and beach obstacles. Germany had 50 divisions in northern [[France]] and the [[low countries|Low Countries]], including at least a dozen in position to immediately be used against this invasion. Following an extensive air and sea bombardment of the assault areas, the Allies launched a simultaneous landing of U.S., British and Canadian forces. About 160,000 ground troops landed that day, roughly half American and half Commonwealth. About 4,000 ships, 11,000 planes, and many thousands of sailors and airmen also took part in the operation. Overall commander of Allied forces in Europe was the American General Dwight D. Eisenhower, who would later become the country's president, while the British General Bernard Montgomery was in charge of the ground forces in Normandy once they landed. On the German side, General Erwin Rommel was in charge of coastal defenses while Field Marshall Gerd von Rundstedt had overall command in the region. This was the largest seaborne invasion in history and an important Allied victory, though the costs in both lives and material were enormous. ===The landings=== {{quote|The eyes of the world are upon you. The hopes and prayers of liberty-loving people everywhere march with you.|author=General Dwight D. Eisenhower}} Just after midnight 24,000 men came in by parachute and glider on the flanks, to secure key points. Then the main seaborne landings on five separate beaches began at dawn. East-to-west, the attacks were: [[File:Pegasus_Bridge_1944.jpg|right|thumb|Pegasus Bridge]] * The British 6th Airborne, with one Canadian battalion, on the left flank near [[Caen]] ** {{see | name=Mémorial Pégasus | alt= | url=https://musee.memorial-pegasus.com/en/ | email= | address=av du Major Howard, 14860 Ranville | lat=49.242090 | long=-0.273750 | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 78 19 44 | tollfree= | hours= | price=€7.50 | wikipedia=Memorial Pegasus | image=Memorial Pegasus - Entrée du musée.jpg | wikidata=Q6815492 | content=The capture of Pegasus Bridge was a remarkable achievement of the Glider Pilot regiment and the Sixth British Airborne. The story is well covered in the museum where exhibits include the original Pégasus Bridge and a Horsa Glider. Several monuments to the Sixth British Airborne are beside the bridge. }} * {{listing | name=Sword Beach | alt=British | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.2988 | long=-0.3055 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1138519| wikipedia=Sword Beach | content= }} * {{listing | name=Juno Beach | alt=Canadian | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.332 | long=-0.399 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q832409| wikipedia=Juno Beach | content= }} * {{listing | name=Gold Beach | alt=British | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.346 | long=-0.554 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q745883| wikipedia=Gold Beach | content= }} * {{listing | name=Omaha Beach | alt=American | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.3720 | long=-0.8836 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q464257| wikipedia=Omaha Beach | content= }} * {{listing | name=Utah Beach | alt=American | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.415402777 | long=-1.174647222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q757273| wikipedia=Utah Beach | content= }} * The US 82nd and 101st Airborne, on the right flank around [[Sainte-Mère-Église]] Every beach has monuments and museums; see the [[#Beaches|Beaches]] section below for details. [[Image:D-day allied assault routes.jpg|thumb|300px|The main assault routes]] When the seaborne units began to land, the allied soldiers stormed the beaches against strong opposition, despite mines and obstacles. They raced across open beaches swept with machine gun fire and stormed the German gun positions. In fierce hand-to-hand fighting, they fought their way into the towns and hills and then advanced inland. Casualties were heavy in all areas and on both sides, though initially the Germans in their fortified positions had lighter losses than the Allies. ''“As we near the edge of the water we spread out. Other craft have grounded further along the beach. We are now abreast of them. They are disembarking with all types of material about their person, just as helpless as myself to shoot back the beach defenders. Some of the boys go down at the water's edge for a breather, but they come under direct machine-gun fire which criss-crosses the whole beach. Thank Heaven! "'' &ndash; <small>John Robson, [https://www.findmypast.co.uk/blog/discoveries/12-incredible-d-day-stories1 Hull Daily Mail]</small> By the end of the day the 3rd British Division was within three miles of Caen, the 3rd Canadian Division was well established on its intermediate objectives and the 50th British Division was only two miles from Bayeux. In the American zone, the 4th Division had established a 4-mile deep penetration inland and was within reach of Ste-Mere-Eglise, where the 82nd had fought throughout the night. At Omaha Beach the Germans had an advantage of terrain from the bluffs above the landing sites, but there too beachheads had been established. It was a magnificent accomplishment; the formidable Atlantic Wall had been successfully breached. By the end of D-Day, the Allies had landed more than 150,000 troops in France by sea and air, 6,000 vehicles including 900 tanks, 600 guns, and about 4,000 tons of supplies and, astonishingly, they had achieved complete surprise in doing it. More soldiers and supplies were pouring ashore to continue the advance; by early July the Allies had over a million men in France, and in August the total reached two million. ===Other allies=== The main invading force was American, British and Canadian, but several other allies had observers present or were involved in other ways. The captive nations of Europe contributed significantly to their own liberation; they all (even Germany) had resistance movements, and several also had more formal forces involved; on D-Day there were Free French on the beaches, and Norwegian, Dutch and Polish Navy ships offshore. A Polish armoured division fought as part of the Canadian army in Normandy. From D-Day through all the fighting in France, Belgium and Holland, the resistance disrupted both German communications and their efforts to move urgently-needed reinforcements and supplies. On D-Day, Free French paratroopers were dropped in [[Brittany]] (the region west of Normandy) to help with that; their success was a factor in the American victories on the [[#Cotentin Peninsula|Cotentin Peninsula]] shortly after D-Day and in Brittany later. By the time of this war the [[British Empire]] was far past its peak, but it was still a force to be reckoned with. On D-Day about half the landing force were British or Canadian, and the Empire made contributions beyond that. Ships of the New Zealand merchant marine delivered troops and British-based squadrons of Commonwealth air forces were in action along with the RAF and USAF. Also, every branch of the British services included personnel from other countries of the Empire. ===Towns=== The usual bases for visits to the beaches are either Caen or Bayeux; all the beaches are easily reached from either, though both are a bit inland not right on the beaches. [[Caen]] is the main city of the department of [[Calvados]], and the second most important city in Normandy after Rouen; it has various attractions and excellent shopping. It is about 15&nbsp;km (10 miles) from the coast. * {{see | name=Mémorial de Caen | alt= | url=http://www.memorial-caen.fr/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Mémorial de Caen | wikidata=Q390677 | content=This museum offers daily tours of the beaches and shows some good films of both the landings and the rest of the [[#Normandy_campaign|campaign in Normandy]]. }} [[Bayeux]] is a smaller town, closer to the coast and to the center of the invasion landing area. It is easy to get in and out of, and convenient for visiting the [[#Omaha Beach|Omaha]], [[#Gold Beach|Gold]] and [[#Juno Beach|Juno]] beach sectors. It has excellent restaurants and shops with an interesting pedestrian section. * {{see | name=Musée Mémorial de la Bataille de Normandie | alt=Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum | url= | email= | address=boul Fabian Ware, 14400 Bayeux | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 51 46 90 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3329287 | content=This museum offers a chronological presentation of the events of the Battle of Normandy along with an exhibition of equipment, small arms, weapons and uniforms, films, mementos and slides. English and French. Outside: German "Marder" anti-tank vehicle, Sherman Tank, American tank destroyer, and a British "crocodile" flame-throwing tank. Inside: American self-propelled 105 mm howitzer, Radio truck, armored bulldozer, American quad-50 caliber anti-aircraft gun (aka "meat chopper"), and several other large weapons. One of the best D-Day museums to offer a balance of artifacts on the one hand together with explanations and historical context on the other. }} * {{see | name=Musée Mémorial du General de Gaulle | alt=General de Gaulle Memorial | url= | email= | address=10, rue Bourbesneur, 14400 Bayeux | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 92 45 55 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=In the former Governor's House, this museum is dedicated to the numerous visits made by the general to Bayeux and in particular, the two important speeches delivered on 14 June 1944 and 16 June 1946. Film archives, photos, manuscripts, documents and memorabilia. }} There are other choices. * [[Ouistreham]] is on the coast at the eastern end of the landing area, on [[#Sword Beach|Sword Beach]], and may be convenient because it has a ferry from [[Portsmouth]]. * [[Arromanches-les-Bains]] is on the coast near the center, on [[#Gold Beach|Gold Beach]], and was one site where a "mulberry harbour" (artificial port) was built shortly after D-Day. * [[Sainte-Mère-Église]] is to the west, inland of [[#Utah Beach|Utah Beach]]; American paratroopers were dropped in the area a few hours before the seaborne invasion and fought a fierce battle in and around the town. The area has many other villages; most are quite picturesque and are able to accommodate tourists. One could also stay in one of the towns outside the actual landing area where an important battle was fought in the weeks after D Day. See the [[#Normandy_campaign|Normandy campaign]] section below for details. Almost every town in this area was damaged during the war; some &mdash; such as [[Caen]], [[Saint-Lô]], [[Vire]] and [[Falaise]] &mdash; were mostly destroyed. However, they have all long since been rebuilt. [[Bayeux]] was fortunately undamaged and so still retains the Medieval character. ===Climate=== Normandy has a temperate-zone maritime climate. The summers are warm and winters are mild. Rain however is a part of the climate all year round, winter seeing more rain than summer. The ongoing rain isn't enough to spoil a vacation most of the time and it does have a benefit, the nature is incredibly lush and green. Winter does see the occasional snow and frost as well, but in general the climate is pretty moderate in winter. Summers are a little warmer than in southern Britain with up to 8 hours of sunshine per day. Cyclists love the region because it is not nearly as hot as most other parts of France and can be more compared to southern England than inland France. Either way, sunscreen and a hat are necessary; even if it doesn't feel as hot as the rest of France, the sun is still beating down with force! ==Get in== Normandy is easily reachable from Paris, either by car (2 to 3 hours drive) or by train (2 hours from [[Paris]] St Lazare station to [[Caen]] central station). Alternatively, a ferry across the channel will take you in just over three hours from [[Portsmouth]] to [[Ouistreham]], the easternmost D-Day target, an ideal starting point. [[Portsmouth]] was one of the ports from which the invasion was launched and has a [https://theddaystory.com/ D-Day Museum]. Other ferries go to [[Cherbourg]] and [[Le Havre]], nearby though not in the actual landing area. Cherbourg is a major city and was liberated by the Americans in late June; see [[#Cotentin_Peninsula|Contentin Peninsula]] below. Le Havre is a smaller town and further from the beaches; it was a German naval base, mainly for torpedo boats. It was liberated by a British and Canadian force in early September after some of the heaviest bombing of the war and a fierce fight on the ground. Caen also has an airport, near the village of [[Carpiquet]] west of the city. Control of the airfield was fiercely contested in the weeks after D-Day. ==Get around== Tour the [[#Beaches|beaches and battlefields]], see the various museums and [[#Cemeteries|cemeteries]] throughout the area, and visit the seaside villages and towns. Independent travel either by car or using public transport is possible. {{Mapframe|49.37|-0.88|zoom=9|width=520|height=560|layer=M|lang=en}} Local tourist information offices provide a leaflet (in English) that lists key visitor attractions, and has details of seven route itineraries which are also signposted on the road network. ===By car=== Car rental in Normandy can be arranged through several international chains including Avis, Budget, Eurocar, and Hertz. Cars can be picked up in Caen. Driving in France is on the right-hand side of the road and all distance and speed measurements are in km. ===Bus=== Bus routes in Normandy with services between Caen and Bayeux, Bayeux and Ouistreham, and Bayeux to Grandcamp. These cover most of the main landing beaches. All the routes are operated by [http://www.busverts.fr/ Bus Verts du Calvados] {{phone|09 70 83 00 14 (non-geographic number)}}, and free timetables can be acquired from the main tourist offices. From Bayeux train station, you can catch a bus to some of the D-Day beaches. On the bus website there is a map of the bus route to the D-Day beaches. Bus 70 takes you to Omaha beach, the American cemetery, and to Pointe Du Hoc. Bus 74 takes you to Arromanches Beach, the location of the Mulberry harbors. According to Wikipedia: "Omaha beach is 5 miles (8 km) long, from east of Sainte-Honorine-des-Pertes to west of Vierville-sur-Mer" and these villages are accessible via Bus 70. Buses are few and far between, so take the few number of buses into account. Also, buses do not run when there is heavy snow, so check the bus website beforehand during snow season. In July and August Nomad operates [https://nomad.normandie.fr/lignes-de-cars/seasonal-route-125-en ligne 125]{{Dead link|date=September 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} every day between Grandcamp-Maisy and Courseulles-sur-Mer via [[Arromanches-les-Bains]], Colleville-sur-Mer, Longues-sur-Mer and Port-en-Bessin. It serves many sites and tourist attractions along the coast, including beaches, shops and museums. There are connections with routes 101, 120 and 121, which have special summer timetables. ===Bicycle=== Bike tours are very popular in France and biking is an excellent way of visiting the battlefields. You can rent bicycles at most major towns and railway stations in France. On D-Day, some of the invading troops used bicycles; see the photos below of British troops at [[#Sword Beach|Lion-sur-Mer]] and Canadians at [[#Juno Beach|Juno Beach]]. ===Guided tours=== Guided tours including transport are available; most travel agents in the area and many of the hotels can arrange these if required. In [[Caen]] or [[Bayeux]], some companies offer half-day or full-day guided tours to the battlefields with English-speaking guides. * [http://www.normandy-sightseeing-tours.com/ Normandy Sightseeing Tours] offers tours from Bayeux to all five landing beaches and beyond. They use 8-seat vans, for smaller groups and a better experience. The guides are French and mostly locals from Normandy, all English-speaking. * [http://larougerietours.co.uk/index.html La Rouge Tours] is one example of tours led by professional Battlefield Guides, mostly conducted by former servicemen. The [http://www.memorial-caen.fr/ Memorial de Caen] museum also conducts daily tours of the beaches. ==Beaches== Now more than 80 years after D-Day, the Normandy coastline is peaceful with lovely seaside towns and picturesque beaches. Many of the towns have names of the form something-sur-mer; ''sur-mer'' is French for "on the sea". Behind the coast is an old-fashioned farming landscape of grain fields, cattle and pastures, hedges and farmhouses. :"Take time to stroll on the beaches and through the villages and to drive country lanes that are once again regulated by rural rhythms, just as if they’d never been devastated at all. It's pretty and poignant, and here’s a strange thing, it brings out the best in people. There’s respect in the air and a common bond between visitors. Folk behave well, smile and chat more easily than usual."<br/>Anthony Peregrine, ''The Sunday Times''. However, the memories of war and D-Day are engrained in the landscape. Along the 80-km (50-mile) D-Day invasion coast there are the remains of German gun emplacements and bunkers, while war memorials and monuments mark where the allied forces landed. Inland, there are monuments in almost every village and at every bend in the road, for there is barely a square yard that wasn’t fought over. Along the coast and inland there are numerous D-Day related museums. Only by visiting do you get a proper idea of the vastness of the enterprise. The following description of the beaches is organized in an east-to-west order, so that it can be used to plan a driving or biking tour along the coast. The length of a tour depends on how many sites and museums a person decides to visit. Enthusiasts could spend several weeks, but two or three days are enough to cover the major sites. A good starting point is to get an orientation to the area and the history of D-Day at either the [http://normandy.memorial-caen.com/ Mémorial de Caen] or Musée du Débarquement (The Landing Museum) in Arromanches, and from there set out to explore. The beaches are still known today by their D-Day code names. ===Sword Beach=== [[File:Monument au commando Kieffer.jpg|thumb|Kieffer monument]] [[File:D-day - British Forces during the Invasion of Normandy 6 June 1944 B5040.jpg|thumb|British troops at Lion-sur-Mer]] Sword beach, the most easterly of the five beaches, stretches from [[Ouistreham]] to Luc-sur-Mer. The British 3rd Infantry Division landed on the 4&nbsp;km (2½-miles) of beach between Ouistreham and Lion-sur-mer. The 41st Royal Marine Commando landed at Lion-sur-Mer, while the N°4 British Commando landed at Ouistreham. Integrated with the N°4 British Commando were 177 Frenchmen of the 1st Battalion of Fusiliers Marins Commandos who were granted the honor to set foot on Normandy soil in the first wave. On the eastern flank of Sword beach, the Sixth British Airborne had parachuted in the early morning hours of June 6th to seize bridges over the River Orne and Caen canal, silence gun batteries and secure the eastern flank of the D-Day beaches. A ''coup de main'' attack captured Pegasus and Horsa bridges to ensure access to the high ground overlooking Sword was secured. The Germans fought hard on all beaches, but Sword was the only one where they were able to mount a counter-attack with an armoured division on D-Day itself. This caused heavy casualties and stopped the British advance for a time. * {{see | name=Musée de la Batterie de Merville | alt= | url= | email= | address=Place du 9ème Bataillon, 14810 Merville-Franceville | lat= | long= | directions=In the Merville coastal battery casemate | phone=+33 2 31 91 47 53 | fax= | hours= | price=€6.50 | content=The museum retraces the operations of the British Sixth Airborne. }} * {{see | name=Site D’Ouistreham | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This beautiful seaside resort town has a legacy of fortifications, memorials, museums and military cemeteries, that stand at ease between beach hotels, fine stretches of sand, breezy cliffs and postcard-picturesque fishing harbours. There are several monuments in the town including the Free French monument, Royal Navy and Royal Marines monument, 13th/18th Royal Hussars monument, and N°4 Commando plaques. The Kieffer monument stands atop a German bunker and is named for the Commando Lieutenant who led the attack that took it. }} * {{see | name=Musée Nr 4 Commando | alt=N° 4 Commando Museum | url= | email= | address=Place Alfred Thomas, 14150 Ouistreham | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 96 63 10 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=In this museum one can see scale models, weapons, and uniforms to retrace the story of the Franco-British Commandos who landed on Sword Beach.}} * {{see | name=Musée du Mur de L’Atlantique | alt=Atlantic Wall Museum | url=http://www.musee-grand-bunker.com | email= | address=av du 6 Juin, 14150 Ouistreham | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 97 28 69 | fax= | hours= | price=€7 | content=In a former artillery range-finding post on the Atlantic Wall, this 17 m high concrete tower is the only one of its kind and has been restored and re-equipped to its original state.}} * {{see | name=Site de Lion-sur-Mer | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Monuments include the Liberation monument, Royal Engineers Corps monument, and 41st Royal Marine Commando stele.}} * {{see | name=Site de Colleville-Montgomery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A plaque is located on the Hillman Battery main blockhouse in memory of the 1st Battalion the Suffolk Regiment soldiers. There is also a General Montgomery statue and the Provisional Cemetery, Kieffer and Montgomery monument.}} * {{see | name=Site D’Hermanville | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Monuments in the area include 3rd Infantry Division and South Lancashire monument, Royal Artillery monument, Allied headquarters and Field hospital plaques, and Allied Navy sailors monument. The British Cemetery Hermanville-sur-Mer, where 1,003 soldiers rest is close to Hermanville-sur-Mer.}} * {{see | name=Musée Du Radar | alt=Radar Museum | url= | email= | address=Route de Basly 14440 Douvres la Délivrande | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 06 06 45 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the site of a German fortified radar base, the museum explains the evolution and operation of radar. Outside one can observe a German radar Würzburg.}} There are two Commonwealth cemeteries near this beach; see the [[#Cemeteries|cemeteries]] section for details. ===Juno Beach=== [[File:Follow-up waves of the 9th Canadian Infantry Brigade disembarking with bicycles from landing craft onto 'Nan White' sector of Juno Beach at Bernieres-sur-Mer, 6 June 1944. A23938.jpg|thumb|Second-wave Canadians at Bernières, bringing bicycles to move inland quickly]] Juno beach is five miles wide and includes the towns of St. Aubin-sur-Mer, Bernières-sur-Mer and Courseulles-sur-Mer. The Canadian 3rd Infantry Division and 2nd Armoured Brigade landed here and fought their way across the beaches and into the towns. The No. 48 Royal Marine Commando secured the left flank at Langrune-sur-Mer. The coastline bristled with guns, concrete emplacements, pillboxes, fields of barbed wire and mines. The opposition the Canadians faced as they landed was stronger than at any other beach except Omaha. * {{see | name=Site de Langrune-sur-Mer | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Langrune-sur-Mer | content=In the town center, on the sea front is the 48th Royal Marine Commando monument. In the entrance hall of the city hall there is a plaque in memory of the friendship between the 48th Royal Marines Commando veterans and the citizens of Langrune-sur-Mer. }} * {{see | name=Site de Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.332427 | long=-0.394341 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer, Calvados | content=A 50-mm gun casement has been preserved at Place du Canada. There are stone memorials to the North Shore (New Brunswick) Regiment, Fort Garry Horse, and 48th Royal Marine Commando here. }} [[File:Bernieres-sur-mer-monument-debarquement.jpg|right|thumb|D-Day Memorial, near Bernières-sur-Mer, Juno Beach]] * {{see | name=Site de Bernières-sur-Mer | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.335400 | long=-0.422858 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This pretty seaside village is distinguished by its church with a 13th century bell tower and 67 m (220 ft) spire. La Maison Queen's Own Rifles of Canada commemorates the men of this regiment. The house is one of the famous houses on the beach as it appeared in many newsreels and official photos. Memorials to the Queen's Own Rifles, Le Regiment de la Chaudière, and Fort Garry Horse are by a German bunker at La Place du Canada. There is an excellent view of the beach from the bunker position and you can imagine what it must have been like when 800 men of the Queens's Own Rifles stormed ashore here as the lead wave of the dramatic D-Day assault. There are also the North Nova Scotia Highlanders plaque and Journalists HQ plaque. There is a walkway on the seawall that makes for a pleasant stroll along the ocean. If you walk east along the seawall about ½ km, you can see the house that appears in the background on the famous film footage showing the Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada storming the beach on D-Day. }} [[File:Charcourseullessurmer.jpg|right|thumb|Sherman Duplex Drive tank]] * {{see | name=Site de Courseulles-sur-Mer | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=In the Courseulles-sur-Mer town centre, on the sea front there is a Sherman Duplex Drive (DD) tank on display. These tanks were partly amphibious, capable of swimming ashore from their landing craft; the soldiers interpreted "DD" as "Donald Duck". This tank was recovered in 1970 from the sea and restored. Badges of regimental units who fought in the area are welded to it.<br/>Monuments in the area include the Royal Winnipeg Rifles monument, Regina Rifles Regiment stele, Canadian Scottish Regiment stele, Royal Engineers plaque, and the Liberation and De Gaulle monument.<br/>The Croix de Lorraine monument commemorates the return of General de Gaulle to France. }} * {{see | name=Centre Juno Beach | alt=Juno Beach Centre | url=http://www.junobeach.org/ | email= | address=voie des Français Libres, 14470 Courseulles-sur-Mer | lat=49.336389 | long=-0.461667 | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 37 32 17 | tollfree= | hours= | price=€7 | wikipedia=Juno Beach Centre | wikidata=Q12060923 | content=The Juno Beach Centre presents Canada's role in military operations and the war effort on the home front in World War II. Film, audio and displays bring pre-war and wartime Canada alive, as well as covering the fighting experiences. Juno Park at the front of the centre has walkways with interpretation panels, a preserved German bunker, and a path leading to the beach. There is little development here, so nothing interrupts your contemplation of beach and ocean. You can imagine the sands littered with mines-on-sticks, spiky metal “hedgehogs”, barbed wire and other barbarisms intended to rip the heart out of landing craft and the 14,000 Canadians that landed in this area. }} * {{see | name=Site de Graye-sur-Mer | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Monuments include the Liberation monument, Churchill "One Charlie" tank, breakthrough plaque, Royal Winnipeg Rifles, and 1st Canadian Scottish plaque, Canadian plaque, and Inns of Court monument. }} There is a Canadian cemetery near this beach; see the [[#Cemeteries|cemeteries]] section. ''Star Trek'' enthusiasts may be interested to know that James Doonan &mdash; the actor who played Scotty in the original series &mdash; was a Canadian officer who was wounded on this beach. ===Gold Beach=== Gold beach is more than 5 miles wide and includes the towns of La Rivière, Le Hamel and [[Arromanches-les-Bains]]. The British 50th Infantry Division and 8th Armoured Brigade landed here. The 47th Royal Marine Commando landed on the western flank with the objective to take Port-en-Bessin. * {{see | name=Musée America Gold Beach | alt=America Gold Beach Museum | url= | email= | address=2, Place Amiral Byrd, 14114 Ver-sur-Mer | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 22 58 58 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This museum recounts the 1st airmail flight between the USA and France, together with a retrospective of the D-Day Landing and the British beachhead on Gold Beach.}} [[File:Arromanches-mulberry-3.jpg|right|thumb|Gold Beach overlooking Arromanches, site of the Mulberry harbour]] * {{see | name=Arromanches 360 | alt= | url=http://www.arromanches360.com | email= | address=Chemin du Calvaire, 14117 Arromanches | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 22 30 30 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The film ''The Price Of Freedom'' impressively mixes archived film from June 1944 with present day pictures and is presented on 9 screens in a circular theater.}} * {{see | name=Mulberry harbour | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=At [[Arromanches]], you’re looking down a stretch of Gold Beach and site of the Mulberry harbour. The invasion needed a port to bring in supplies on a huge scale. So the allies built concrete pontoons that were towed across the channel and sunk to form the port’s outer perimeter. Twenty of the original 115 pontoons still defy the waves.}} * {{see | name=Musée du Débarquement | alt=The Landing Museum | url=http://www.musee-arromanches.fr/accueil/index.php?lang=uk | email= | address=Place du 6 Juin, 14117 Arromanches | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 22 34 31 | fax= | hours= | price=£3.90 | content=In front of the actual vestiges of the Mulberries, this museum is devoted to the incredible feat of technology achieved by the British in building and setting up the artificial harbour. Period newsreel movies in English and French. Impressive dynamic scale-models showing how the floating docks rolled with the waves and tides. A 75-foot section of Mulberry floating bridge on display outside. Military equipment is on display outside, including an American half-track and a Higgins boat.}} [[File:Longues-sur-Mer Battery.jpg|right|thumb|The Longues-sur-Mer battery housed four 150mm guns with a range of 20 km]] * {{see | name=Longues-sur-Mer Battery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Longues-sur-Mer | lat=49.343 | long=0.695 | directions=Access from the D514 road (follow the road-signs) | phone=+33 2 31 06 06 45 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This battery housed four 150mm guns with a range of 20 km. On June 6th it pounded the beaches some and exchanged fire with both British and French cruisers and a WWI vintage American battleship. It was also bombed. At noon on June 7th it surrendered to British troops. It is the only coastal battery to have kept its guns, giving an impressive picture of what an Atlantic Wall gun emplacement was really like. }} * {{see | name=Site de Port-en-Bessin | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A monument in memory of the 47th Royal Marine Commando soldiers who were killed during the liberation of Port-en-Bessin and Asnelles is on top of the cliff, on the west side of the harbor.}} * {{see | name=Musée des épaves sous-marines | alt=Underwater Wrecks Museum | url= | email= | address=Route de Bayeux-Commes, 14520 Port-en-Bessin | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 21 17 06 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This museum presents recovered wrecks and artifacts from more than twenty-five years of under-water exploration, in the coastal landing area. Debris includes a Sherman tank. }} The Bayeux War Cemetery is not far inland of this beach, and the Bayeaux Memorial near it commemorates soldiers with no known grave. See the [[#Cemeteries|cemeteries]] section for details. ===Omaha Beach=== [[File:2nd Infantry Division, E-1 draw, Easy Red sector, Omaha Beach, D+1, June 7, 1944.jpg|thumb|US Army 2nd Infantry Division marching up the bluff at Omaha Beach, on D+1, June 7, 1944 ]] [[File:Cratères à la pointe du Hoc.jpg|right|thumb|Pointe-du-Hoc Bomb Craters]] Omaha beach is overlooked by bluffs which rise to 150 feet (46&nbsp;m) and command the beaches. These naturally strong defensive positions had been skillfully fortified with concrete gun emplacements, anti-tank guns and machine guns. In particular the guns at Pointe du Hoc were in position to be deadly, although they weren't actually firing on D-Day and it was Maisy battery that continued to fire onto both American beaches for three days. Allied bombing left these largely undamaged, and since there was no cover on the beach, this tranquil strand of beach became a killing field. Within a mile to the rear of the beach lay the fortified villages of Colleville-sur-Mer, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer and Vierville-sur-Mer. The US 1st Infantry Division had the most difficult landing of the whole Allied assault on D-Day and took around 2,000 casualties. One reason was the terrain, another that they faced the only German division on the coast which had a full complement of German troops. There were four divisions on the Cotentin Peninsula and several defending the British and Canadian beaches to the east, but those divisions were either below strength or composed partly of Russian, Polish and other forced conscripts. The Omaha Beach landing is shown in the Oscar-winning film ''Saving Private Ryan'' and, unlike much from Hollywood, the battle scenes are quite realistic. However, the landing sequences were filmed on beaches in [[County Wexford]], Ireland which bear little physical resemblance to the beaches in Normandy. * {{see | name=1st Infantry Division Monument | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A monument dedicated to the “Big Red One”, the US 1st Infantry Division, is on the sea front, within walking distance from the American cemetery. Other monuments in the area include the 5th Engineer Special Brigade Memorial, and plaques commemorating the American armoured vehicles that passed through here.}} * {{see | name=2nd Infantry Division Monument | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.36448 | long=-0.86366 | directions=Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A monument dedicated to the US 2nd Infantry Division is on the sea front, by the German defensive bunker, Widerstandsnest 65 (WN 65), that defended the route up the Ruquet Valley to Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer. }} [[File:2nd Infantry Division Monument, Omaha Beach, WN 65.jpg|thumb|upright=.7|2nd Infantry Division Monument]] * {{see | name=Musée Mémorial d’Omaha Beach | alt=Omaha Beach Memorial Museum | url=http://www.musee-memorial-omaha.com | email= | address=av de la Libération, 14710 Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 21 97 44 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This museum has a fine collection of uniforms, weapons, personal objects and vehicles. Dioramas, photos, and maps together with a film featuring veterans’ testimonies explain the landings at Omaha Beach and at Pointe du Hoc. A landing ship, Sherman tank and "Long Tom" 155 mm gun are on display outside.}} * {{see | name=Musée D-Day Omaha | alt=Omaha D-Day Museum | url=http://www.dday-omaha.fr/en/ | email= | address=Route de Grandcamp-Maisy, 14710 Vierville-sur-Mer | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 21 71 80 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Devoted to the landing on Omaha Beach. Various equipment is displayed including: vehicles, weapons, radios, and engineer equipment. }} * {{see | name=Site de Vierville-sur-Mer | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Monuments here include the 29th US Infantry Division stele, National Guard monument, 6th Engineer Special Brigade stele, 29th DI Engineer plate, 81st CM battalion, and 110th FA bat. Plates, 5th Rangers Battalion plate, 58th Armored Field Battalion stele, boundary marker in memory of the 58th Artillery Battalion. Along the coastal road, 500 m from Les Moulins, is a monument on the site of the first American cemetery in Normandy on Omaha Beach. The soldiers interred there were later moved to the military cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer. The beach's desolation makes it a powerful site to imagine soldiers battling on the sand, completely vulnerable to German artillery. }} [[File:Pointe du Hoc Ranger Monument.jpg|right|thumb|Monument, Pointe-du-Hoc]] * {{see | name=La Pointe du Hoc | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A rocky headland towering over the beaches, La Pointe du Hoc has become a symbol of the courage of American troops. Here, Germans had placed bunkers and artillery. The positions were bombed, shelled and then attacked by 225 US Rangers, who scaled the 35 m rock wall, besieged the bunkers, and finally took them, only to find there were no guns at all. The guns had been dismantled and hidden in an orchard inland. Only 90 rangers were still standing at the summit. Today, bomb and shell craters remain. There is a monument in memory of the 2nd Ranger Battalion, who assaulted and captured La Pointe du Hoc battery. The memorial is built on a control firing casemate where bodies of the soldiers still lie under the ruins.}} * {{see | name=Musée des Batteries de Maisy | alt=Ranger Objective | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Grandcamp Maisy | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-06-01 | content=This outdoor German group of artillery batteries and HQ has been preserved and is camouflaged in over 14 hectares of land close to Grandcamp Maisy. The site covered the Omaha Sector and opened fire at Omaha Beach and Pointe du Hoc on the morning of D-day. The US 29th Division as well as the 5th and 2nd Rangers attacked the site on 9 June 1944 and after heavy fighting they captured the position. It is the largest German position in the invasion area and has original field guns, Landing craft and other D-day objects on display. American Rangers monument is on the site. }} There is an American cemetery near this beach; see the [[#Cemeteries|cemeteries]] section. ===Utah Beach=== Utah beach, the most westerly of the five beaches and the only one in Manche, was attacked by the US 4th Infantry Division. Due to navigational errors, the landings all took place on the south part of the beach which happened to be less well defended. Airborne troops landed through the night to secure the invasion’s western flank and to open the roads for their colleagues landing by sea at dawn. The objective was to cut the [[#Cotentin_Peninsula|Cotentin Peninsula]] off from the rest of France and take the port of [[Cherbourg]]. * {{see | name=Dead Man's Corner Museum | alt= | url=http://www.paratrooper-museum.org | email= | address=2 Village de l'Amont - 50500 Saint Come du Mont | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 33 42 00 42 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1180821 | content=At the point where the 101st Airborne Division encountered the Green Devils (the German paratroopers) you can get an insight into the battle for Carentan on the site which has remained largely intact. }} * {{see | name=Musée Airborne | alt=Airborne Museum | url=http://www.airborne-museum.org/ | email= | address=14 rue Eisenhower - 50480 Sainte-Mère-Église | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 33 41 41 35 | tollfree= | hours= | price=£2.85 | wikidata=Q3329035 | content=The story of D-Day is told in pictures and mementos of the American 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions. On display are a Douglas C-47, a Waco glider, a Sherman tank, several artillery pieces, vehicles, equipment, many small arms, uniforms and historic objects. Film. One of the best D-Day museums to strike a balance between an extensive collection of artifacts together with explanations and context. }} [[File:Normandy '10- Ste Mere Eglise La Fiere Bridge (4823099763).jpg|thumb|Statue on a bridge in Ste-Mère-Église]] * {{see | name=[[Sainte-Mère-Église]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q273393 | content=This is perhaps the most famous "D-day village" of all. Street panels around Ste Mère-Eglise explain the operations of the US paratroopers. In the square, a parachute effigy still dangles from the church, commemorating what happened to John Steele when his parachute snagged on the spire. Inside the church is a stained glass window featuring the Virgin and child, surrounded by paratroopers. Monuments in the area include the 82nd Airborne plate, 505th Parachute regiment stele, and Sainte-Mère-Église liberators stele. Parts of the village are portrayed in the film ''The Longest Day''. }} * {{see | name=Musée du Débarquement | alt=Utah Beach Landing Museum | url=http://www.utah-beach.com | email= | address=Ste Marie-du-Mont, | lat= | long= | directions=opposite the beach on the Utah site | phone=+33 2 33 71 53 35 | fax= | hours= | price=£2.70 | content=This museum uses film, documents and models to recall D-Day in a unique and innovative manner. Several armored vehicles, equipment and a landing ship are on display.}} * {{see | name=Monuments located by the Utah Beach Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=American Soldier's Monument, 4th Infantry Division Monument, 90th Infantry Division Monument, VIIth Corps headquarters plaque, Coast Guard plaque, and US Navy plaque.}} * {{see | name=Batterie d’Azeville | alt=Azeville Battery | url= | email= | address=La Rue - 50310 Azeville | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 33 40 63 05 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2891700 | content=Near Ste Mère-Eglise, the Azeville Battery consisted of a dozen casemates, including four blockhouses with 105mm heavy guns, 350 m of underground tunnels, underground rooms and ammunition storage. The position was held by 170 German gunners. Guided tours of the Azeville battery offer insight into the German coastal defenses and the battle that took place here. }} * {{see | name=Musée de la Batterie de Crisbecq | alt=Crisbecq Gun Battery Museum | url= | email= | address=Route des Manoirs, Saint-Marcouf | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 6 86 10 80 59 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q325370 | content=The Crisbeq Gun Battery was one of the largest German coastal artillery batteries located on Utah Beach. There are 21 blockhouses linked by more than 1 km of trenches and restored recreation rooms, hospital, and kitchens. }} * {{see | name=Mémorial de la Liberté Retrouvée | alt=Museum of Freedom Regained | url= | email= | address=18, av de la Plage, 50310 Quinéville | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 33 95 95 95 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This museum recalls the French peoples daily life during the German occupation until the liberation. }} ==The technical side== [[File:LST-21 unloads tanks during Normandy Invasion, June 1944 (26-G-2370).jpg|thumb|British tanks roll off an American LST]] The war effort, including this invasion, got fine support from a range of scientists, engineers, technicians and workers in all the Allied countries. Some of the most important developments were: * {{see | name=Landing Ship, Tank | alt=LST | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Landing Ship, Tank | content=These ships were designed by the Americans, with some British input, and built mainly in the US. They were first used in [[World War II in Africa|North Africa]], then in the invasions of Sicily and mainland Italy. On D-day, all the Allies used them. Most were manned by the US Navy. }} :For infantry, the US and UK each had a different system consisting of a large ship (US Attack transport, British Landing ship, infantry) which, unlike the LST, was not designed to go to the beach itself, only to deliver smaller landing craft to a position near the beach. * {{see | name=Radar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q47528 | content=Between the two world wars, several countries researched this. Early in WW II the British had the most advanced systems and put them to good use in the Battle of Britain. Once the US entered the war, they were shown the British innovations and made some of their own. By the time of D-Day, Germany and Russia both had radar as well. }} [[File:Armoured_Ramp_Carrier_02.jpg|thumb|A tank that transforms into a bridge]] * {{see | name=Hobart's Funnies | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Hobart's Funnies | wikidata=Q716180 | content=The amphibious DD tanks mentioned at [[#Site de Courseulles-sur-Mer]] and the flamethrower tank outside the [[#Musée Mémorial de la Bataille de Normandie]] in Bayeux were two of several types of unusual armour developed specifically for the Normandy landings. Others were designed for clearing minefields, for creating a bridge, or for destroying fortifications either by rolling up and planting explosive charges or by hammering them from a distance with a 230mm mortar.<br />The British general Percy Hobart was in charge of their design and crew training. On the day, he was in command of the 79th Armoured Division which provided the crews. They were used on all the beaches, and later in the war, supporting all the Allies. }} * {{see | name=Mulberry harbours | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Mulberry harbour | wikidata=Q426875 | content=These were a British invention, prefabricated concrete caissons that could be towed across the Channel and sunk to create docks, breakwaters and so on for a temporary harbour. Two were built, one on the British [[#Gold Beach]] and one on the American [[#Omaha Beach]], but the American one was destroyed by a storm. }} The British "Ultra" group at [[Bletchley Park]] broke nearly all the German codes used in this war and provided crucial intelligence to Allied field commanders. ==Normandy campaign== The successful landing was a turning point in [[World War II in Europe|World War II]], a major step toward the defeat of Nazi Germany; after D-Day, the Allies went on to liberate all of Europe. On the Western Front, the three main participants were the US, Britain and Canada. On the Eastern Front, [[Soviet Union|Soviet]] forces continued to drive forward relentlessly as they had been doing since long before D-Day. To the south, Allied forces had [[World War II in Africa|driven the Axis out of North Africa]] in 1943, then invaded Italy; they took Rome a few days before D-Day. D-Day (June 6) was the start of a '''campaign in Normandy''' that lasted until late August. Those interested in wartime history may wish to visit the sites of the other main battles of that campaign, described below. Meanwhile an attempt to assassinate Hitler on July 20, 1944 led to at least 7,000 arrests and almost 5,000 executions. Some of the plotters were senior officers and the repercussions greatly disrupted the German military. Among others, Rommel was forced into suicide. ===Around Caen=== [[File:Infantrymen of The Regina Rifle Regiment outside a damaged building, Caen, France, 10 July 1944.jpg|thumb|Canadians in Caen, early July]] [[Caen]] is symbolically important as the capital of the Calvados department and the largest city in [[Lower Normandy]], and was strategically important as the transport hub of the region. The allies attacked it forcefully, and the Germans reinforced it heavily; at one point they had nine armored divisions plus infantry and artillery in and around the town. The British and Canadians fought house-to-house in Caen itself and pressed hard in nearby areas, but did not gain full control of the town and environs until mid-July. By the end of the battle, much of the city was reduced to rubble and nearby villages were also heavily damaged. The airfield at [[Carpiquet]], just west of Caen, was one of the first Canadian objectives after D-Day, but it was defended by an entire SS panzer division plus other troops and the Canucks were beaten back. Both sides sent reinforcements and there was heavy fighting around the town until the Allies finally took it in early July. *{{see | name=Ardenne Abbey | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.1965 | long=-0.4139 | directions=Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, between Caen and Carpiquet | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ardenne Abbey massacre | wikidata=Q22947455 | content=Twenty Canadian prisoners were shot by Waffen SS troops in the abbey courtyard in early June; over 150 Canadian prisoners were killed during the Normandy campaign. The regimental commander, Kurt Meyer, was using the Abbey as his headquarters at the time and was later convicted of war crimes. }} ===Cotentin Peninsula=== [[File:Liberation de Cherbourg le maire felicite les americains.jpg|thumb|The mayor of Cherbourg greets American General Collins]] There was heavy fighting on the [[Cotentin Peninsula]], west of the beaches, shortly after D-Day. The Allies urgently needed the port of [[Cherbourg]] at the tip of the peninsula, and sent an American force to take it. The Americans faced quite a difficult fight; four German divisions were on the peninsula, and the ''bocage'' terrain there is largely unsuitable for tanks so a lot of hard foot slogging was required. Hitler, against his generals' advice, insisted that German forces defend the whole peninsula rather than withdrawing to strong positions around the city. They did that and made the Americans fight for every bit of ground, with heavy casualties on both sides. Later Hitler commanded the defenders to fight to the last man, sacrificing themselves for the Fatherland. However when the situation became hopeless, General von Schlieben fought a delaying action while his troops demolished the port, then surrendered rather than let his remaining men die pointless deaths. Cherbourg fell at the end of June; it was the first major French city liberated, and Caen the second. After Cherbourg, the Americans turned south to take [[Saint-Lô]] at the base of the peninsula against stiff opposition; the town was thoroughly destroyed. Other units swept down the West side of the peninsula taking [[Coutances]], [[Granville (Normandy)|Granville]] and [[Avranches]]. ===American breakout=== The American victories on the peninsula got them out into open territory more suited for tanks, and they then moved quickly in several directions. [[File:Normandybreakout.jpg|thumb|American breakout]] By this time nearly all German reserves had been committed in unsuccessful attempts to hold Caen and Saint-Lô, and many German formations had been badly chewed up. Some German units were tied down fighting the British and Canadians, four whole divisions had been wiped out by the Americans on the peninsula, and both the French Resistance and Allied bombing raids disrupted German efforts to bring in reinforcements. Also, the Germans were in quite deep trouble on the Eastern front, and they did not have anywhere near enough resources for both fronts. The Americans had both more tanks and far better air support than the enemy; they used these advantages to full effect in a textbook example of fast-moving armoured tactics, similar to the ''blitzkrieg'' (lightning war) with which the Germans had devastated several countries a few years earlier. Part of the American force swung west to take [[Brittany]] with little resistance. Other units &mdash; most of the American force plus three British armoured divisions &mdash; moved south to [[Nantes]] and [[Angers]] on the Loire and east to [[Le Mans]] and [[Alençon]], despite much more serious opposition. In early August they took part in the battle around Falaise, and by the end of August they had liberated [[Paris]]. ===Falaise=== The '''decisive battle''' of the Normandy campaign was fought around [[Falaise]], some distance inland of Caen, starting in early August. [[File:Falaise_Pocket_map.jpg|thumb|The Falaise pocket]] Over 100,000 German troops were almost surrounded in the "Falaise Pocket". Commonwealth forces by now held everything around Caen on the north side and the British had taken the area around [[Vire]] on the west, while the rapid American advance had put them on the south side. Among other German forces, the pocket had those retreating after defeats in the intense battles for Caen, Saint-Lô and Vire. The Allies hammered them from the air and with artillery, pressed in with armour and infantry, and hoped to completely surround them by closing off the only exit, the "Falaise Gap" on the east. To close the gap the Canadians, and the Polish armoured division deployed with them, thrust south near Falaise and Americans moved north in the [[Argentan]] area. However the by-now-desperate Germans fought hard to keep the gap open and escape through it; there was '''about two weeks of extremely heavy fighting''' before it was finally closed. Falaise is a '''distinctly controversial battle'''; two decisions by the senior generals kept the Allies from closing the gap sooner and having an even larger victory: * Patton's Americans were ordered to stop their advance and dig in near Argentan, rather than risk over-extending their lines by continuing north to join up with the Canadians. One reason for this was that the Allies knew from the code breakers at [[Milton Keynes#Q155921|Bletchley Park]] that the Germans were planning an attack near Argentan. * The British reserves were not sent to reinforce the Canadians who appealed urgently for them. These decisions were heatedly debated at the time; Patton and the Canadian generals were furious. Even with the benefit of hindsight, experts still disagree over whether they were sensible and prudent or foolish and costly. The Canadians and Poles &mdash; unassisted on the ground, though they did get plenty of air support &mdash; could neither close the gap completely nor hold against German efforts to batter their way out. They did try and got quite badly mauled; they lost more men around Falaise than they had in the landings and the fierce fight for Caen. There were many panzer divisions in the pocket; by now all were badly damaged but they could still mount devastating thrusts against chosen targets. The Canadians linked up with US forces on August 17th, closing the gap, but then the panzers smashed through and it was not until August 21st that the gap was closed for good. On the German side, Hitler overruled the generals who wanted to conduct an orderly retreat early in the battle, ordering them instead to hold their ground and even mount counterattacks (the red arrows on the map). Most historians believe the generals were right, a German defeat was inevitable, and Hitler's interference only made it worse. In particular, ordering tanks withdrawn from the defense of Falaise for use in his counterattacks allowed a Canadian advance. [[File:Panther mont ormel 03.jpg|thumb|Devastation near Falaise]] The battle was utterly devastating to the countryside. {{quote|I was conducted through it on foot, to encounter scenes that could be described only by Dante. It was literally possible to walk for hundreds of yards at a time, stepping on nothing but dead and decaying flesh.|author=Eisenhower}} '''Falaise was a major Allied victory'''; about 10,000 Germans were killed and 50,000 surrounded and forced to surrender; some did escape to fight on, but they lost nearly all their equipment and many were wounded. After Falaise, the Germans had no effective force west of the Seine and what troops they did have in the area were in full retreat; Paris was liberated only days later. ===Overall result=== The campaign in Normandy that began with D-Day and ended with Falaise was a major success for the Allies. Their losses were heavy &mdash; about 200,000 killed, missing, wounded or captured &mdash; but German losses were more than twice that. Both sides lost many tanks, guns, vehicles and other supplies, but at this stage of the war the Allies could better afford those losses. ==After Normandy== After Normandy, Allied forces drove toward [[Paris]] from Normandy and the [[Pays de la Loire]] which the Americans had taken after breaking out of the peninsula. After Falaise, the German forces in the area were in severe disarray and the Allies still had air superiority so the advance was rapid. The German garrison in Paris surrendered on August 25. [[File:American troops march down Champs-Elysees HD-SN-99-02719.JPG|thumb|American troops in Paris]] Meanwhile American and Free French forces, plus some British paratroopers, invaded southern France (east of [[Marseilles]]) in mid-August. Between that and the victories in the north, they soon liberated much of France. After that, the British and Americans drove through eastern France and then into central Germany, aiming for Berlin. The Canadians took the left flank, liberating coastal parts of France, then Belgium, Holland and the North Sea coast of Germany. In the last few days of the war a Canadian parachute battalion who had been among the first to land on D-Day were sent on a mad dash to take [[Wismar]] on Germany's Baltic coast, getting there just in time to prevent the [[Soviet Union|Soviets]] from taking that region and possibly [[Denmark]]. After Falaise and the liberation of Paris, the Germans regrouped and were able to put up a stiff resistance and even mount some counterattacks; the Allied advance slowed down, but it was unstoppable. Caught between the Russians on the east and the Western Allies on the west, losing on both fronts and being heavily bombed as well, Germany surrendered less than a year after D-Day, in early May 1945. ==Cemeteries== Beautiful [[cemeteries]] overlook the sea and countryside and are essential stops along the way to understand and reflect on the human cost of the war. This was enormous; around 100,000 soldiers (about 60,000 German and 40,000 Allied) died in Normandy during the summer of 1944. There were also air, naval and civilian deaths, plus large numbers wounded or captured. We list the cemeteries in two groups; the first four near the coast and the rest further inland. Order within each group is east-to-west. [[Image:Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery (8).JPG|thumb|Beny-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, Reviers]] * {{see | name=Ranville War Cemetery | alt= | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2033500/RANVILLE%20WAR%20CEMETERY | email= | address=5357 Rue du Comté Louis de Rohan Chabot | lat=49.23113 | long=-0.25776 | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This cemetery has mainly men of the British 6th Airborne Division who made parachute and glider landings in the area on D-Day. There are 2,235 Commonwealth graves (the division had a Canadian battalion), plus 330 German and a few others.}} *{{see | name=Hermanville War Cemetery | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2033000/HERMANVILLE%20WAR%20CEMETERY | lat=49.286 | long=-0.309 | content=This cemetery has 1,003 graves, mainly of British troops who fell in the first few days of the invasion. }} *{{see | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2004600/BENY-SUR-MER%20CANADIAN%20WAR%20CEMETERY,%20REVIERS | name=Beny-sur-mer Canadian War Cemetery | lat=49.304 | long=-0.45 | content=Just over 2,000 Canadians are buried here; nearly all of them fell during the landings or shortly after. The cemetery is near the village of Reviers, about 18 km east of Bayeux.}} [[Image:Flickr - DVIDSHUB - USACAPOC(A) remembers D-Day (Image 3 of 7).jpg|thumb|American Cemetery, Colleville-sur-Mer]] *{{see | name=Normandy American Cemetery | url=https://www.abmc.gov/cemeteries-memorials/europe/normandy-american-cemetery | email= | address= | lat=49.3591555 | long=-0.85316111 | directions= | phone=+33 2 31 51 62 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-18:00 | price= | content=Overlooking Omaha Beach, this 172.5 acre (70 hectare) cemetery contains the graves of 9,387 American soldiers. The rows of perfectly aligned headstones against the immaculate, emerald green lawn convey an unforgettable feeling of peace and tranquility. The beaches can be viewed from the bluffs above, and there is a path down to the beach. On the Walls of the Missing in a semicircular garden on the east side of the memorial are inscribed 1,557 names. Rosettes mark the names of those since recovered and identified.}} *{{see | name=Banneviile-la-Campagne War Cemetery | lat=49.1755 | long=-0.229 | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2101000/BANNEVILLE-LA-CAMPAGNE%20WAR%20CEMETERY | content=This cemetery has 2,170 Commonwealth dead and five Poles. Most fell after the capture of Caen in mid-July.}} *{{see | name=Grainville-Langannerie Polish Cemetery | lat=49.0230 | long=-0.2706 | content=This is the only Polish war cemetery in France. It has the graves of 696 soldiers from the Polish armoured division who fought alongside the Canadians in Normandy; most fell in the fight around the Falaise Gap. }} *{{see | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2032600/Bretteville-sur-Laize%20Canadian%20War%20Cemetery | name=Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery | lat=49.06 |long=-0.292 | content=This cemetery is near Falaise and has 2871 Canadians, most of whom fell in the fight to close the Falaise Gap.}} *{{see | name=Saint Manvieu War Cemetery | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2004800/ST.%20MANVIEU%20WAR%20CEMETERY,%20CHEUX | lat=49.1780 | long=-0.5143 | content=This cemetery has 1,627 Commonwealth graves and 555 German. It is near the airport at [[Carpiquet]] and has mainly men who fell in the fierce battles over that.}} *{{see | name=Bayeux War Cemetery | alt= | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2033300/BAYEUX%20WAR%20CEMETERY | email= | address= | lat=49.274 | long=-0.7143 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-03-21 | content=The largest British cemetery of the Second World War in France, containing the graves of over 4,400 Commonwealth soldiers, mostly British, and 500 others, mostly German. The Bayeux Memorial stands opposite the cemetery and bears the names of 1,808 Commonwealth soldiers who have no known grave. The cemetery is about a 15-minute walk from Bayeux train station. }} *{{see | name=La Cambe German War Cemetery | alt= | url=http://www.normandie-tourisme.fr/Cimetiere-Militaire-Allemand/PCU/LA-CAMBE/fiche-PCUNOR014FS0007M-2.html | email= | address= | lat=49.3428 | long=-1.0266 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This site has the graves of 23,400 German soldiers, most of whom fell in the Normandy campaign. See also the [http://www.volksbund.de/kriegsgraeberstaette/la-cambe.html German government site]. }} *{{see | name=Orglandes German War Cemetery | url=http://www.normandie-tourisme.fr/pcu/cimetiere-militaire-allemand/orglandes/fiche-PCUNOR050FS0007T-2.html | lat=49.426 | long=-1.449 | content=This cemetery has just over 10,000 German graves, including many who fell in the defense of the Cotentin Peninsula. [http://www.volksbund.de/kriegsgraeberstaette/orglandesmanche.html German government site]}} Nearly all the dead in these cemeteries fell sometime between the invasion on June 6 and the end of the Falaise battle in mid-August. ==Go next== From this area, one might go anywhere in [[France]] or across the channel to the [[UK]]. [[Normandy]] is a major tourist area with a range of attractions, as are nearby [[Brittany]], the [[Pays de la Loire]], and the [[Channel Islands]]. Other places of possible interest to war buffs are the scenes of two Allied raids on the German-held French coast in 1942. A predominantly Canadian force attacked [[Dieppe]], further north on the Normandy coast, and British commandos raided [[Saint-Nazaire]], near [[Nantes]] to the south. Losses were extremely heavy in both places and arguably both raids were disasters, though the Saint-Nazaire attack did knock out an important drydock for the rest of the war. On the other hand, it is often claimed that these raids were essential preparation for D-Day, tests of German defenses that gave intelligence required for planning the invasion. People interested in earlier history can see sites associated with ''Duke William IV of Normandy'', who invaded England in 1066 and is known there as '''William the Conqueror'''. He was born in [[Falaise]] and is buried in [[Caen]] which was his capital; his castle is now a tourist attraction. His invasion fleet sailed from [[Bayeux]] and a museum there has a famous tapestry depicting his conquest of England. {{PartOfTopic|World War II in Europe}} {{guidetopic}} {{geo|49.35|-.75|zoom=9}} emsflrsxyl8o44ff9kva0bongn3ie1l 0 9285 5289003 5040564 2026-06-07T06:36:48Z ~2026-33432-01 2419418 /* By taxi */ 5289003 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Delta banner Deltaport at sunset.jpg|pgname=Delta}} '''[https://www.delta.ca/ Delta]''' is a city of 108,000 people (2021) in [[Vancouver southern suburbs|Vancouver's southern suburbs]]. It is a large area which includes three separate built-up areas: '''Tsawwassen''', '''Ladner''' and '''North Delta'''. It is surrounded by water on three sides, the Strait of Georgia to the west, Fraser river, to the north, and Boundary Bay to the south. The city of [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] makes up the eastern border. ==Understand== ===History=== Prior to European settlement, Delta's flatlands and coastal shores were inhabited by the Tsawwassen indigenous peoples, of the Coast Salish First Nations. The land was first sighted by Europeans in 1791, when Spanish explorer Lieutenant Francisco de Eliza mistook the area for an island and named it "Isla Capeda". The first European settler in Delta was James Kennedy who pre-empted 135 acres in what later became Annieville in February 1860. Thomas and William Ladner, began farming the area named after them in 1868. Farming and fishing helped the community grow quickly over the next few decades. In 1879, the area was incorporated as a municipality, named "the Corporation of Delta", and the village of Ladner was made as its administrative centre. Due to its geography, Delta was a relatively isolated community. The completion of the George Massey Tunnel in 1959 linking Ladner to Richmond and Vancouver along with the opening, in 1960, of the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal and the Highway 99 being rerouted from the King George Highway in Surrey in 1962 to a new route through Delta, ended Delta's isolation and resulted in a massive 400% population growth over the next 20 years. The 1986 completion of the Alex Fraser Bridge connecting North Delta to New Westminster and Vancouver also helped Delta's growth. ===Communities=== Delta comprises three distinct, geographically separate communities: *'''North Delta''' (pop: 51,623) is home to over half of Delta's population. It is a largely suburban area in north-east Delta bordered by the Burns Bog and Surrey. *'''Ladner''' (pop: 21,112) is a 19th-century fishing village in north-west Delta that has expanded into a suburb. Fishing and farming are important industries. Ladner Trunk Road is its main street. *'''Tsawwassen''' (pop: 20,933) is a suburban community in south-west Delta that calls itself the sunniest place in Metro Vancouver. Luxury waterfront homes line Tsawwassen's coast. Tsawwassen is also home to the busy Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal which links the mainland to Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Tsawwassen, together with Ladner are also known as South Delta. ==Get in== See [[Vancouver]] for options to get in the Vancouver area by plane, by bus, and by train, and by boat. === By car === '''Highway 99''' travels from the US border (where it becomes I5) through Delta and north to Richmond. '''Highway 10''' travels east-west to Surrey. '''Highway 17''' travels from Highway 99 in Ladner south to Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal. ==== Border crossing ==== * {{go|name=Boundary Bay - Point Roberts|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=49.0021|long=-123.0684|directions=Delta, BC (56th St) - [[Point Roberts|Point Roberts, WA]] (Tyee Drive)|phone=|tollfree=|hours=24/7|price=|lastedit=2023-08-07|content=Open to all vehicles. Point Roberts is on a peninsula. It is typically only reached from Canada and from other areas of the United States via this border crossing.|wikipedia=Point Roberts–Boundary Bay Border Crossing|wikidata=Q24190245}} === By boat === * {{go | name=BC Ferries | alt= | url=https://www.bcferries.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-888-223-3779 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=BC Ferries | wikidata=Q795723 | lastedit=2022-04-30 | content=Operates ferries connecting British Columbia coastal communities. }} ** {{go | name=Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal | alt= | url=https://www.bcferries.com/travel-boarding/terminal-directions-parking-food/vancouver-tsawwassen/TSA | email= | address=1 Ferry Causeway | lat=49.0074 | long=-123.1303 | directions=connects directly with Highway 17 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tsawwassen ferry terminal | wikidata=Q1656648 | lastedit=2022-04-30 | content= }} *** Destinations served by this terminal, all using ferries that carry vehicles and foot passengers **** [[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]] (Swartz Bay) ferry terminal near [[Sidney (British Columbia)|Sidney]] (1 hour 35 minutes crossing). Inbound and outbound ferries normally depart at the top of the hour on odd numbered hours with first departure normally at 7 am and with last departure normally at 9 pm. During the summer, ferries depart hourly for most of the day. **** [[Southern Gulf Islands]] ([[Galiano Island]], [[Mayne Island]], [[Pender Island]], [[Saltspring Island]], and [[Saturna Island]]) (crossing time depends on how many stops made along the way and if a transfer is required; Galiano is the nearest of the islands and has a crossing time of 55 minutes), operating a limited number of trips each day. Transfers between ferries may be required for some trips. **** [[Nanaimo]] (Duke Point) ferry terminal (2 hour crossing), departing every 2.5 hours. Inbound and outbound ferries' normal daily departure times are at 5:15 am, 7:45 am, 10:15 am, 12:45 pm, 3:15 pm, 5:45 pm, 7:15 pm, and 10:45 pm, except that on Saturdays, the last departures are at 5:45 pm, and on Sundays, the first departures are at 10:15 am. ***Reservations ****Reservations can be completed on BC Ferries' website or by phone. ****Reservations are a generally good idea, as ferries can fill up. If you book far enough in advance and prepay with saver fare is available, you may even pay less than showing up at the terminal. Otherwise, reservations increase the cost of the trip, between increasing cost between $2.50 extra and $17, depending on which option you choose. ****For ferries serving the Southern Gulf Island, reservations are free and are strongly recommended, especially in the summer. ****Drivers must redeem their reservation at the ferry terminal at least 30 minutes before the scheduled sailing or they lose their guarantee to be on the sailing and are given the same priority as anyone else showing up at the ferry terminal without a reservation. ***Public transit ****[https://www.translink.ca/ TransLink's] bus route 620 operates limited stop service between Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] and the ferry terminal via Ladner Exchange in Delta. ****Victoria (Swartz Bay) ferry terminal is served by [https://www.bctransit.com/victoria BC Transit] on several routes including *****70, 71, and 72. Routes between Victoria and Swartz Bay ferry terminal stopping along the way in [[Sidney (British Columbia)|Sidney]]. Route 70 makes limited stops and is the fastest option. On route 70, travel time to downtown Victoria from Swartz Bay ferry terminal is about 50-55 minutes, from Sidney is 45-50 minutes, and from McTavish Exchange is 35-40 minutes. On routes 71 and 72, travel time to downtown Victoria from Swartz Bay ferry terminal is 75-85 minutes. *****Route 81, a bus route connecting to Butchart Gardens (in Brentwood) via Sidney ****Saltspring Island (Long Harbour) ferry terminal is served by [https://www.bctransit.com/salt-spring-island BC Transit] by bus route 4, which travels to the island's hamlet of Ganges ****No other destination ferry terminals served from Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal have public transit. For travel to Nanaimo, you are better off traveling between Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) ferry terminal and [[Nanaimo]] (Departure Bay) ferry terminal, which have public transit serving both ferry terminals, see [[West Vancouver#By boat|West Vancouver]] for more information. ***Parking options ****Short-term and long-term parking are available at the ferry terminal, but parking availability may be limited at peak times. BC Ferries' website [https://www.bcferries.com/travel-boarding/terminal-directions-parking-food/vancouver-tsawwassen/TSA identifies the current amount of long-term parking remaining]. As of 2022, the long-term parking lot costs $17 per 24 hours. ****{{go|name=Tsawwassen Ferry Park and Go|alt=Tsawwassen RV Resort|url=https://parkandgo.ca/|email=ferryparkandgo@gmail.com|address=4761 NuLelum Way|lat=49.03255|long=-123.09160|phone=+1 604 943-9991|price=$15 per day|lastedit=2022-08-21|content=Parking fee includes a complimentary shuttle to and from the ferry terminal. In the evening, depending on when your ferry arrives at the terminal, you may need to call for a pick up.}} ***Amenities **** Wi-Fi: Free service at the ferry terminal. Not offered on the ferries. **** Washrooms: Available in the terminal and on board ferries. **** Eating and shopping: Several fast food restaurants and shops are located within the terminal. A cafeteria style-restaurant and a gift shop are on board the ferries. ==Get around== {{Mapframe}} {{Mapshape}} The Alex Fraser Bridge links Delta to New Westminster and Richmond. Public transportation in Delta is provided by the South Coast British Columbia Transportation Authority bus system. There is no rapid transit system in Delta, though the SkyTrain system in Surrey comes within 3 km of the city's borders. === By public transit === {{listing | name=TransLink | alt= | url=https://www.translink.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-604-953-3333 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=TransLink (British Columbia) | wikidata=Q1142140 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=The main public transit network in the [[Vancouver]] area, including: [[Bowen Island]], [[Burnaby]], [[Coquitlam]], Delta, [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]], [[Lions_Bay-Britannia_Beach|Lions Bay]], [[Maple Ridge]], [[New Westminster]], [[North Vancouver]], [[Port Coquitlam]], [[Pitt Meadows]], [[Port Moody]], [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]], [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], Vancouver, [[West Vancouver]], and [[White Rock]]. Its network includes buses, SkyTrain (rail rapid transit), SeaBus (ferries), West Coast Express (commuter rail), and HandyDART (door-to-door shared-ride service for those who cannot ride public transit without assistance). }} {{pbri}} Passengers can pay for fares using Compass Cards ($6 refundable deposit), Compass Tickets, or tap-to-pay using contactless credit cards (only American Express, Mastercard or Visa) or mobile wallets. Passengers using Compass Cards and Compass Tickets pay discounted fares. Passengers can transfer for up to 90 minutes, except if taking West Coast Express, in which case they can transfer for up to 120 minutes. On bus and HandyDART, passengers can also pay in cash, but in that case will not receive change and are not eligible for transfers. {{pbri}} Zone based fares apply between Monday and Friday for trips starting before 6:30 pm, if travel involves SkyTrain or SeaBus. Outside of those hours or for travel on only bus or HandyDART, a single zone rate applies. If traveling by West Coast Express, a higher cost zone based fare system applies regardless of time of travel. {{pbri}} Children 12 and under can ride for free. People aged 13 to 18, and 65 and older pay discounted concession fares. ==== By bus ==== Notable bus routes serving Delta include the following, which operate daily unless otherwise noted: *R6 - Between Scott Road station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] and Newton Exchange in Surrey. Operates daily with numerous trips. This is a limited stop, rapid bus service. Travels along Scott Road and 72 Ave. Scott Road is the border between Surrey and Delta. *301 - Between Newton Exchange and Brighouse station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] with stops north Delta. Operates daily with numerous trips. *310 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and Ladner Exchange, connecting North Delta and Ladner areas of Delta. *319 - Between Scott Road station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in Surrey and Newton Exchange in Surrey. Operates daily with numerous trips. It follows the same route as Route R6, but with more stops. Travels along Scott Road and 72 Ave. Scott Road is the border between Surrey and Delta. *340 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and 22nd Street Station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in [[New Westminster]] with stops in north Delta. *364 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and Langley Centre in [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]]. For a portion of the route, it travels along Scott Road, which is the boundary between Delta and Surrey. * 601 - Between South Delta (Tsawwassen) and Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in Richmond with stops in the Ladner including Ladner Exchange * 620 - Between Tsawwassen ferry terminal and Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in Richmond. * 640 - Between Ladner Exchange and Scott Road station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in Surrey. === By taxi === * {{Listing|name=Green Cab|alt=Delta Taxi|url=https://deltataxi.com/|phone=+1 604 594-1111|lastedit=2022-02-28}} * {{Listing|name=Newton Whalley Hi-Way Taxi Ltd|url=http://www.whalleytaxi.com/|phone=+1 604-581-1111|lastedit=2022-02-28}} * '''Signature Black Car Service – [https://www.signaturecarservice.ca/delta-limo-chauffeur-service/ Delta Limousine Service] & [https://www.signaturecarservice.ca/our-services/tsawwassen-ferry-transfers/ Tsawwassen Ferry Transfers]''' === By ride hailing === * {{Listing|name=Kabu|url=https://www.kabu.ca/|lastedit=2022-07-29}} * {{listing | name=Lyft | alt= | url=https://www.lyft.com/rider/cities/vancouver-bc | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lyft | wikidata=Q17077936 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/vancouver/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Uber | wikidata=Q780442 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} ==See== [[File:George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary (4552677019).jpg|thumb|George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary]] *{{see | name=Boundary Bay Regional Park | alt= | url=https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/park/boundary-bay-regional-park | email=regionalparks.info@metrovancouver.org | address= | lat=49.013226 | long=-123.048547 | directions= | phone=+1 604-520-6442 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q121456264 | content=It has a Centennial Beach, a popular sandy beach. During low tide, a huge area of water disappears, revealing wet sand and occasional sections ankle deep water that enable you to walk quite far out into Boundary Bay. There is also great birdwatching park as an internationally recognized Important Bird Area on the Pacific Flyway. }} *{{see | name=George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary | alt= | url=http://www.reifelbirdsanctuary.com/ | email= | address=5191 Robertson Road | lat=49.097398 | long=-123.166048 | directions= | phone=+1 604-946-6980 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM - 4PM, reservations required | price=Adults $5, children (2-14 yr) $3, seniors (60 yrs+) $3 | wikipedia=George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary | wikidata=Q5090526 | lastedit=2022-01-06 | content=A migratory bird sanctuary that is protect by the Government of Canada. Visitors are able to see a wide variety of birds in the wild. There is a fee to access the trails of the park (unlike Boundary Bay Regional Park, which has free access). Delta often wins the annual bird count for the most species of birds observed, so either of these parks are great places for bird-lovers. No dogs or bicycles. }} * {{see | name=Delta Nature Reserve | alt= | url=https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/park/delta-nature-reserve | email= | address=access via the eastern side of the Planet Ice complex located at the east end of Nordel Court | lat=49.1433 | long=-122.9291 | directions= | phone=+1 604-520-6442 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5000058 | lastedit=2023-07-29 | content=Walk along a raised boardwalk through the only part of the Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area that is open to the public. Burns Bog is the largest raised peat bog in Canada and most of it is protected from development. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Angel Estate Winery | alt= | url= | email= | address=2170 Westham Island Rd | lat=49.089974 | long=-123.162997 | directions= | phone=+1 604-940-9755 | tollfree= | hours=Daily | price=Tasting free | lastedit=2019-07-08 | content=The first winery in Delta. }} * {{do | name=Wellbrook Winery tasting | alt= | url=http://wellbrookwinery.com/ | email= | address=4626 88th St | lat=49.086728 | long=-122.9772584 | directions= | phone=+1 604-946-1868 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A turn-of-the-(19th-20th)-century atmosphere. }} * {{do | name=Sungod Recreation Centre | alt= | url=https://www.delta.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/park-and-amenity-search/sungod-recreation-centre | email= | address=7815 112 St | lat=49.14542 | long=-122.91479 | directions= | phone=+1 604-952-3075 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7640235 | lastedit=2022-01-06 | content= }} ==Buy== [[File:Tsawwassen Mills Outlet Shopping Mall (29599854553).jpg|thumb|Tsawwassen Mills]] * {{buy | name=Tsawwassen Mills | alt= | url=https://www.tsawwassenmills.com/ | email=info@tsawwassenmills.com | address=Hwy 17 just past 52nd Street | lat=49.0381 | long=-123.086 | directions= | phone=+1 604-948-9889 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-9PM; Su 10AM-7PM | price= | wikipedia=Tsawwassen Mills | wikidata=Q24190526 | lastedit=2021-09-17 | content=179 stores. From Bridgeport Station Canada Line (Bay 7), take bus #601 (South Delta via Ladner Exchange) or #620 (Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal) and get off at 52nd St. In the return direction, the stop for the #601 is more convenient to get to than the stop for the #620. }} * {{buy | name=Scottsdale Centre | alt= | url=https://scottsdalecentre.ca | email= | address=7113A 120 St | lat=49.131666 | long=-122.892143 | directions=at the corner of Scott Road and 72 Avenue | phone=+1 604-599-1045 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=40 shops and services including Save On Foods, BC Government Liquor Store, Dollarama, and Walmart. }} * {{buy | name=Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall | alt= | url=https://www.tsawwassentowncentremall.com | email= | address=1315 56th St | lat=49.026731 | long=-123.070392 | directions=56th Street and 12th Avenue | phone=+1 604-943-1735 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9:30AM-6PM; Su & holidays noon-5PM | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Joe’s Farm Market, Thrifty Foods, Library, B.C. Liquor Store. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name= SkyHawk Restaurant | alt= | url=http://skyhawkrestaurant.ca | email= | address=7800 Alpha Way #102 | lat=49.080613 | long=-123.009024 | directions=follow signs to Boundary Bay Airport Terminal, enter main terminal doors, and turn right | phone=+1 778 434-1238 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 8AM-10PM | price= | content= An unmatched location for pilots and aviation buffs — right in the terminal at Boundary Bay Airport (CZBB). Overlooks the apron, so you can watch planes come and go as you eat. Outdoor patio is delightful on sunny days. Serviceable breakfasts, burgers, steaks, pasta, and Asian food. In addition to being an easy "hundred dollar hamburger" for pilots, it's surprisingly busy with locals celebrating birthdays or family gatherings. }} *{{eat | name=Speed's Neighborhood Pub | alt= | url=https://www.speedspubladner.ca/ | email= | address=4943 Chisholm St | lat=49.092916 | long=-123.08677 | directions= | phone=+1 604-940-2245 | tollfree= | hours= | price=cheap | content=Great pub food with a waterfront location. }} * {{eat | name=Primerose Mediterranean Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.theprimerose.com/ | email= | address=6165 Highway 17A, Ladner | lat=49.110939 | long=-123.053325 | directions= | phone=+1 604-940-0200 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-F 11AM-2PM; Tu-Su 4PM-late | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Family recipes from Oropos, Greece; local Delta/Richmond produce and other ingredients in freshly made dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Tasty Indian Bistro | alt= | url=https://tastybistro.ca/ | email=info@tastybistro.com | address=8295 120th St | lat=49.154235 | long=-122.890931 | directions= | phone=+1 604-507-9393 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:30AM-late | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=A high end Indian restaurant that live up to its name. Valet parking available. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Pat Quinn's Restaurant and Bar | alt= | url=https://www.patquinns.com/ | email= | address=5133 Springs Blvd | lat=49.032412 | long=-123.081272 | directions= | phone=+1 604-948-1123 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 11AM-11PM; Sa Su 10:30AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Happy hour daily 2-6PM and F Sa 9-11PM. Pizza, pasta, steak, seafood. }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Beach Grove Motel | alt= | url=http://www.beachgrovemotel.com | email=manager@beachgrovemotel.com | address=5921 12 Ave | lat=49.025008 | long=-123.059732 | directions= | phone=+1 604-943-2632 | tollfree=+1-877-943-2632 | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price=From $89 | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Laundromat with coin-operated washer and dryer. A baby crib or a cot can be supplied if required. Pet-friendly rooms, with free wireless Internet service. }} * {{sleep | name=Coast Tsawwassen Inn | alt= | url=https://www.coasthotels.com/hotels/bc/delta/coast-tsawwassen-inn/ | email= | address=1665 56 Street | lat=49.033482 | long=-123.069265 | directions= | phone=+1 604-943-8221 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From $219 | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=A reasonably priced hotel, with good accommodations and is on a major road. All-suite rooms come with a range of amenities, including complimentary parking, continental breakfast, Wi-Fi. }} * {{Sleep|name=Delta Hotels Vancouver Delta|url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yvrdd-delta-hotels-vancouver-delta/overview/?scid=f2ae0541-1279-4f24-b197-a979c79310b0|address=6005 Highway 17A|lat=49.10992|long=-123.05639|phone=+1 604-382-8222|lastedit=2023-05-30|content=Adjacent to a casino in the same building.}} == Cope == === Newspaper === * {{Listing|name=Delta Optimist|url=https://www.delta-optimist.com/|phone=+1 604-946-4451|lastedit=2023-05-30}} * {{listing | name=North Delta Reporter | alt= | url=https://www.northdeltareporter.com/ | email=editor@northdeltareporter.com | address=15288 54a Ave Unit 210, Surrey | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 604-575-5346 | tollfree= | hours=Monday – Friday: 8:30am – 5pm | price= | lastedit=2024-07-10 | content= }} === Hospital === * {{listing | name=Delta Hospital | alt= | url=https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Locations/Delta/delta-hospital | email= | address=5800 Mountain View Blvd | lat=49.0857 | long=-123.06159 | directions= | phone=+1 604-946-1121 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Delta Hospital | wikidata=Q20712289 | lastedit=2023-05-30 | content=Hospital with an emergency department operating 24/7. }} ==Go next== * [[Point Roberts]], an American exclave only accessible by land through Canada. Make sure you're eligible to enter before you go '''and''' that you'll have the necessary documents to re-enter Canada on your way back. {{routebox | image1=BC-10.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=ENDS at [[File:BC-91.svg|18px|link=]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]] | minorr1=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | image2=BC-17.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]] | minorl2=[[Sidney (British Columbia)|Sidney]] ← {{rint|ferry}} | directionr2=E | majorr2=END | minorr2=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | image3=BC-19.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=W | majorl3=[[Campbell River]] | minorl3=[[Nanaimo]] ← {{rint|ferry}} | directionr3=E | majorr3=ENDS at [[File:BC-17.svg|18px|link=]] | image4=BC-91.svg | imagesize4=22 | directionl4=&thinsp;N | majorl4=[[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] | minorl4=[[New Westminster]] via [[File:BC-91A.svg|18px|link=]] | directionr4=S | majorr4=ENDS at [[File:BC-99.svg|18px|link=]] | image5=BC-99.svg | imagesize5=22 | link5=Interstate 5 | directionl5=&thinsp;N | majorl5=[[Vancouver]] | minorl5=[[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] | directionr5=S | majorr5=[[Seattle]] | minorr5=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | image6=BC-blank.svg | imagesize6=22 | directionl6=&thinsp;N | majorl6=ENDS at [[File:BC-17.svg|18px|link=]] | minorl6= | directionr6=S | majorr6=[[Point Roberts]] | minorr6={{rint|passport}} }} {{isPartOf|Vancouver southern suburbs}} {{Usablecity}} {{geo|49.0903|-123.0574|zoom=14}} m70o7ah850y5ougt6hu08hm1bctacni 5289004 5289003 2026-06-07T06:39:34Z ~2026-33432-01 2419418 /* By taxi */ Added listing for Signature Black Car Service – Delta Limousine Service & Tsawwassen Ferry Transfers 5289004 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Delta banner Deltaport at sunset.jpg|pgname=Delta}} '''[https://www.delta.ca/ Delta]''' is a city of 108,000 people (2021) in [[Vancouver southern suburbs|Vancouver's southern suburbs]]. It is a large area which includes three separate built-up areas: '''Tsawwassen''', '''Ladner''' and '''North Delta'''. It is surrounded by water on three sides, the Strait of Georgia to the west, Fraser river, to the north, and Boundary Bay to the south. The city of [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] makes up the eastern border. ==Understand== ===History=== Prior to European settlement, Delta's flatlands and coastal shores were inhabited by the Tsawwassen indigenous peoples, of the Coast Salish First Nations. The land was first sighted by Europeans in 1791, when Spanish explorer Lieutenant Francisco de Eliza mistook the area for an island and named it "Isla Capeda". The first European settler in Delta was James Kennedy who pre-empted 135 acres in what later became Annieville in February 1860. Thomas and William Ladner, began farming the area named after them in 1868. Farming and fishing helped the community grow quickly over the next few decades. In 1879, the area was incorporated as a municipality, named "the Corporation of Delta", and the village of Ladner was made as its administrative centre. Due to its geography, Delta was a relatively isolated community. The completion of the George Massey Tunnel in 1959 linking Ladner to Richmond and Vancouver along with the opening, in 1960, of the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal and the Highway 99 being rerouted from the King George Highway in Surrey in 1962 to a new route through Delta, ended Delta's isolation and resulted in a massive 400% population growth over the next 20 years. The 1986 completion of the Alex Fraser Bridge connecting North Delta to New Westminster and Vancouver also helped Delta's growth. ===Communities=== Delta comprises three distinct, geographically separate communities: *'''North Delta''' (pop: 51,623) is home to over half of Delta's population. It is a largely suburban area in north-east Delta bordered by the Burns Bog and Surrey. *'''Ladner''' (pop: 21,112) is a 19th-century fishing village in north-west Delta that has expanded into a suburb. Fishing and farming are important industries. Ladner Trunk Road is its main street. *'''Tsawwassen''' (pop: 20,933) is a suburban community in south-west Delta that calls itself the sunniest place in Metro Vancouver. Luxury waterfront homes line Tsawwassen's coast. Tsawwassen is also home to the busy Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal which links the mainland to Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Tsawwassen, together with Ladner are also known as South Delta. ==Get in== See [[Vancouver]] for options to get in the Vancouver area by plane, by bus, and by train, and by boat. === By car === '''Highway 99''' travels from the US border (where it becomes I5) through Delta and north to Richmond. '''Highway 10''' travels east-west to Surrey. '''Highway 17''' travels from Highway 99 in Ladner south to Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal. ==== Border crossing ==== * {{go|name=Boundary Bay - Point Roberts|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=49.0021|long=-123.0684|directions=Delta, BC (56th St) - [[Point Roberts|Point Roberts, WA]] (Tyee Drive)|phone=|tollfree=|hours=24/7|price=|lastedit=2023-08-07|content=Open to all vehicles. Point Roberts is on a peninsula. It is typically only reached from Canada and from other areas of the United States via this border crossing.|wikipedia=Point Roberts–Boundary Bay Border Crossing|wikidata=Q24190245}} === By boat === * {{go | name=BC Ferries | alt= | url=https://www.bcferries.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-888-223-3779 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=BC Ferries | wikidata=Q795723 | lastedit=2022-04-30 | content=Operates ferries connecting British Columbia coastal communities. }} ** {{go | name=Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal | alt= | url=https://www.bcferries.com/travel-boarding/terminal-directions-parking-food/vancouver-tsawwassen/TSA | email= | address=1 Ferry Causeway | lat=49.0074 | long=-123.1303 | directions=connects directly with Highway 17 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tsawwassen ferry terminal | wikidata=Q1656648 | lastedit=2022-04-30 | content= }} *** Destinations served by this terminal, all using ferries that carry vehicles and foot passengers **** [[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]] (Swartz Bay) ferry terminal near [[Sidney (British Columbia)|Sidney]] (1 hour 35 minutes crossing). Inbound and outbound ferries normally depart at the top of the hour on odd numbered hours with first departure normally at 7 am and with last departure normally at 9 pm. During the summer, ferries depart hourly for most of the day. **** [[Southern Gulf Islands]] ([[Galiano Island]], [[Mayne Island]], [[Pender Island]], [[Saltspring Island]], and [[Saturna Island]]) (crossing time depends on how many stops made along the way and if a transfer is required; Galiano is the nearest of the islands and has a crossing time of 55 minutes), operating a limited number of trips each day. Transfers between ferries may be required for some trips. **** [[Nanaimo]] (Duke Point) ferry terminal (2 hour crossing), departing every 2.5 hours. Inbound and outbound ferries' normal daily departure times are at 5:15 am, 7:45 am, 10:15 am, 12:45 pm, 3:15 pm, 5:45 pm, 7:15 pm, and 10:45 pm, except that on Saturdays, the last departures are at 5:45 pm, and on Sundays, the first departures are at 10:15 am. ***Reservations ****Reservations can be completed on BC Ferries' website or by phone. ****Reservations are a generally good idea, as ferries can fill up. If you book far enough in advance and prepay with saver fare is available, you may even pay less than showing up at the terminal. Otherwise, reservations increase the cost of the trip, between increasing cost between $2.50 extra and $17, depending on which option you choose. ****For ferries serving the Southern Gulf Island, reservations are free and are strongly recommended, especially in the summer. ****Drivers must redeem their reservation at the ferry terminal at least 30 minutes before the scheduled sailing or they lose their guarantee to be on the sailing and are given the same priority as anyone else showing up at the ferry terminal without a reservation. ***Public transit ****[https://www.translink.ca/ TransLink's] bus route 620 operates limited stop service between Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] and the ferry terminal via Ladner Exchange in Delta. ****Victoria (Swartz Bay) ferry terminal is served by [https://www.bctransit.com/victoria BC Transit] on several routes including *****70, 71, and 72. Routes between Victoria and Swartz Bay ferry terminal stopping along the way in [[Sidney (British Columbia)|Sidney]]. Route 70 makes limited stops and is the fastest option. On route 70, travel time to downtown Victoria from Swartz Bay ferry terminal is about 50-55 minutes, from Sidney is 45-50 minutes, and from McTavish Exchange is 35-40 minutes. On routes 71 and 72, travel time to downtown Victoria from Swartz Bay ferry terminal is 75-85 minutes. *****Route 81, a bus route connecting to Butchart Gardens (in Brentwood) via Sidney ****Saltspring Island (Long Harbour) ferry terminal is served by [https://www.bctransit.com/salt-spring-island BC Transit] by bus route 4, which travels to the island's hamlet of Ganges ****No other destination ferry terminals served from Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal have public transit. For travel to Nanaimo, you are better off traveling between Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) ferry terminal and [[Nanaimo]] (Departure Bay) ferry terminal, which have public transit serving both ferry terminals, see [[West Vancouver#By boat|West Vancouver]] for more information. ***Parking options ****Short-term and long-term parking are available at the ferry terminal, but parking availability may be limited at peak times. BC Ferries' website [https://www.bcferries.com/travel-boarding/terminal-directions-parking-food/vancouver-tsawwassen/TSA identifies the current amount of long-term parking remaining]. As of 2022, the long-term parking lot costs $17 per 24 hours. ****{{go|name=Tsawwassen Ferry Park and Go|alt=Tsawwassen RV Resort|url=https://parkandgo.ca/|email=ferryparkandgo@gmail.com|address=4761 NuLelum Way|lat=49.03255|long=-123.09160|phone=+1 604 943-9991|price=$15 per day|lastedit=2022-08-21|content=Parking fee includes a complimentary shuttle to and from the ferry terminal. In the evening, depending on when your ferry arrives at the terminal, you may need to call for a pick up.}} ***Amenities **** Wi-Fi: Free service at the ferry terminal. Not offered on the ferries. **** Washrooms: Available in the terminal and on board ferries. **** Eating and shopping: Several fast food restaurants and shops are located within the terminal. A cafeteria style-restaurant and a gift shop are on board the ferries. ==Get around== {{Mapframe}} {{Mapshape}} The Alex Fraser Bridge links Delta to New Westminster and Richmond. Public transportation in Delta is provided by the South Coast British Columbia Transportation Authority bus system. There is no rapid transit system in Delta, though the SkyTrain system in Surrey comes within 3 km of the city's borders. === By public transit === {{listing | name=TransLink | alt= | url=https://www.translink.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-604-953-3333 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=TransLink (British Columbia) | wikidata=Q1142140 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=The main public transit network in the [[Vancouver]] area, including: [[Bowen Island]], [[Burnaby]], [[Coquitlam]], Delta, [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]], [[Lions_Bay-Britannia_Beach|Lions Bay]], [[Maple Ridge]], [[New Westminster]], [[North Vancouver]], [[Port Coquitlam]], [[Pitt Meadows]], [[Port Moody]], [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]], [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], Vancouver, [[West Vancouver]], and [[White Rock]]. Its network includes buses, SkyTrain (rail rapid transit), SeaBus (ferries), West Coast Express (commuter rail), and HandyDART (door-to-door shared-ride service for those who cannot ride public transit without assistance). }} {{pbri}} Passengers can pay for fares using Compass Cards ($6 refundable deposit), Compass Tickets, or tap-to-pay using contactless credit cards (only American Express, Mastercard or Visa) or mobile wallets. Passengers using Compass Cards and Compass Tickets pay discounted fares. Passengers can transfer for up to 90 minutes, except if taking West Coast Express, in which case they can transfer for up to 120 minutes. On bus and HandyDART, passengers can also pay in cash, but in that case will not receive change and are not eligible for transfers. {{pbri}} Zone based fares apply between Monday and Friday for trips starting before 6:30 pm, if travel involves SkyTrain or SeaBus. Outside of those hours or for travel on only bus or HandyDART, a single zone rate applies. If traveling by West Coast Express, a higher cost zone based fare system applies regardless of time of travel. {{pbri}} Children 12 and under can ride for free. People aged 13 to 18, and 65 and older pay discounted concession fares. ==== By bus ==== Notable bus routes serving Delta include the following, which operate daily unless otherwise noted: *R6 - Between Scott Road station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] and Newton Exchange in Surrey. Operates daily with numerous trips. This is a limited stop, rapid bus service. Travels along Scott Road and 72 Ave. Scott Road is the border between Surrey and Delta. *301 - Between Newton Exchange and Brighouse station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] with stops north Delta. Operates daily with numerous trips. *310 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and Ladner Exchange, connecting North Delta and Ladner areas of Delta. *319 - Between Scott Road station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in Surrey and Newton Exchange in Surrey. Operates daily with numerous trips. It follows the same route as Route R6, but with more stops. Travels along Scott Road and 72 Ave. Scott Road is the border between Surrey and Delta. *340 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and 22nd Street Station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in [[New Westminster]] with stops in north Delta. *364 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and Langley Centre in [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]]. For a portion of the route, it travels along Scott Road, which is the boundary between Delta and Surrey. * 601 - Between South Delta (Tsawwassen) and Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in Richmond with stops in the Ladner including Ladner Exchange * 620 - Between Tsawwassen ferry terminal and Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in Richmond. * 640 - Between Ladner Exchange and Scott Road station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in Surrey. === By taxi === * {{Listing|name=Green Cab|alt=Delta Taxi|url=https://deltataxi.com/|phone=+1 604 594-1111|lastedit=2022-02-28}} * {{Listing|name=Newton Whalley Hi-Way Taxi Ltd|url=http://www.whalleytaxi.com/|phone=+1 604-581-1111|lastedit=2022-02-28}} * '''Signature Black Car Service – [https://www.signaturecarservice.ca/delta-limo-chauffeur-service/ Delta Limousine Service] & [https://www.signaturecarservice.ca/our-services/tsawwassen-ferry-transfers/ Tsawwassen Ferry Transfers]''' * {{go | name=Signature Black Car Service – Delta Limousine Service & Tsawwassen Ferry Transfers | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=778-651-7711 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-07 | content= }} === By ride hailing === * {{Listing|name=Kabu|url=https://www.kabu.ca/|lastedit=2022-07-29}} * {{listing | name=Lyft | alt= | url=https://www.lyft.com/rider/cities/vancouver-bc | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lyft | wikidata=Q17077936 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/vancouver/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Uber | wikidata=Q780442 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} ==See== [[File:George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary (4552677019).jpg|thumb|George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary]] *{{see | name=Boundary Bay Regional Park | alt= | url=https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/park/boundary-bay-regional-park | email=regionalparks.info@metrovancouver.org | address= | lat=49.013226 | long=-123.048547 | directions= | phone=+1 604-520-6442 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q121456264 | content=It has a Centennial Beach, a popular sandy beach. During low tide, a huge area of water disappears, revealing wet sand and occasional sections ankle deep water that enable you to walk quite far out into Boundary Bay. There is also great birdwatching park as an internationally recognized Important Bird Area on the Pacific Flyway. }} *{{see | name=George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary | alt= | url=http://www.reifelbirdsanctuary.com/ | email= | address=5191 Robertson Road | lat=49.097398 | long=-123.166048 | directions= | phone=+1 604-946-6980 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM - 4PM, reservations required | price=Adults $5, children (2-14 yr) $3, seniors (60 yrs+) $3 | wikipedia=George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary | wikidata=Q5090526 | lastedit=2022-01-06 | content=A migratory bird sanctuary that is protect by the Government of Canada. Visitors are able to see a wide variety of birds in the wild. There is a fee to access the trails of the park (unlike Boundary Bay Regional Park, which has free access). Delta often wins the annual bird count for the most species of birds observed, so either of these parks are great places for bird-lovers. No dogs or bicycles. }} * {{see | name=Delta Nature Reserve | alt= | url=https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/park/delta-nature-reserve | email= | address=access via the eastern side of the Planet Ice complex located at the east end of Nordel Court | lat=49.1433 | long=-122.9291 | directions= | phone=+1 604-520-6442 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5000058 | lastedit=2023-07-29 | content=Walk along a raised boardwalk through the only part of the Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area that is open to the public. Burns Bog is the largest raised peat bog in Canada and most of it is protected from development. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Angel Estate Winery | alt= | url= | email= | address=2170 Westham Island Rd | lat=49.089974 | long=-123.162997 | directions= | phone=+1 604-940-9755 | tollfree= | hours=Daily | price=Tasting free | lastedit=2019-07-08 | content=The first winery in Delta. }} * {{do | name=Wellbrook Winery tasting | alt= | url=http://wellbrookwinery.com/ | email= | address=4626 88th St | lat=49.086728 | long=-122.9772584 | directions= | phone=+1 604-946-1868 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A turn-of-the-(19th-20th)-century atmosphere. }} * {{do | name=Sungod Recreation Centre | alt= | url=https://www.delta.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/park-and-amenity-search/sungod-recreation-centre | email= | address=7815 112 St | lat=49.14542 | long=-122.91479 | directions= | phone=+1 604-952-3075 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7640235 | lastedit=2022-01-06 | content= }} ==Buy== [[File:Tsawwassen Mills Outlet Shopping Mall (29599854553).jpg|thumb|Tsawwassen Mills]] * {{buy | name=Tsawwassen Mills | alt= | url=https://www.tsawwassenmills.com/ | email=info@tsawwassenmills.com | address=Hwy 17 just past 52nd Street | lat=49.0381 | long=-123.086 | directions= | phone=+1 604-948-9889 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-9PM; Su 10AM-7PM | price= | wikipedia=Tsawwassen Mills | wikidata=Q24190526 | lastedit=2021-09-17 | content=179 stores. From Bridgeport Station Canada Line (Bay 7), take bus #601 (South Delta via Ladner Exchange) or #620 (Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal) and get off at 52nd St. In the return direction, the stop for the #601 is more convenient to get to than the stop for the #620. }} * {{buy | name=Scottsdale Centre | alt= | url=https://scottsdalecentre.ca | email= | address=7113A 120 St | lat=49.131666 | long=-122.892143 | directions=at the corner of Scott Road and 72 Avenue | phone=+1 604-599-1045 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=40 shops and services including Save On Foods, BC Government Liquor Store, Dollarama, and Walmart. }} * {{buy | name=Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall | alt= | url=https://www.tsawwassentowncentremall.com | email= | address=1315 56th St | lat=49.026731 | long=-123.070392 | directions=56th Street and 12th Avenue | phone=+1 604-943-1735 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9:30AM-6PM; Su & holidays noon-5PM | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Joe’s Farm Market, Thrifty Foods, Library, B.C. Liquor Store. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name= SkyHawk Restaurant | alt= | url=http://skyhawkrestaurant.ca | email= | address=7800 Alpha Way #102 | lat=49.080613 | long=-123.009024 | directions=follow signs to Boundary Bay Airport Terminal, enter main terminal doors, and turn right | phone=+1 778 434-1238 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 8AM-10PM | price= | content= An unmatched location for pilots and aviation buffs — right in the terminal at Boundary Bay Airport (CZBB). Overlooks the apron, so you can watch planes come and go as you eat. Outdoor patio is delightful on sunny days. Serviceable breakfasts, burgers, steaks, pasta, and Asian food. In addition to being an easy "hundred dollar hamburger" for pilots, it's surprisingly busy with locals celebrating birthdays or family gatherings. }} *{{eat | name=Speed's Neighborhood Pub | alt= | url=https://www.speedspubladner.ca/ | email= | address=4943 Chisholm St | lat=49.092916 | long=-123.08677 | directions= | phone=+1 604-940-2245 | tollfree= | hours= | price=cheap | content=Great pub food with a waterfront location. }} * {{eat | name=Primerose Mediterranean Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.theprimerose.com/ | email= | address=6165 Highway 17A, Ladner | lat=49.110939 | long=-123.053325 | directions= | phone=+1 604-940-0200 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-F 11AM-2PM; Tu-Su 4PM-late | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Family recipes from Oropos, Greece; local Delta/Richmond produce and other ingredients in freshly made dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Tasty Indian Bistro | alt= | url=https://tastybistro.ca/ | email=info@tastybistro.com | address=8295 120th St | lat=49.154235 | long=-122.890931 | directions= | phone=+1 604-507-9393 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:30AM-late | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=A high end Indian restaurant that live up to its name. Valet parking available. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Pat Quinn's Restaurant and Bar | alt= | url=https://www.patquinns.com/ | email= | address=5133 Springs Blvd | lat=49.032412 | long=-123.081272 | directions= | phone=+1 604-948-1123 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 11AM-11PM; Sa Su 10:30AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Happy hour daily 2-6PM and F Sa 9-11PM. Pizza, pasta, steak, seafood. }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Beach Grove Motel | alt= | url=http://www.beachgrovemotel.com | email=manager@beachgrovemotel.com | address=5921 12 Ave | lat=49.025008 | long=-123.059732 | directions= | phone=+1 604-943-2632 | tollfree=+1-877-943-2632 | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price=From $89 | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Laundromat with coin-operated washer and dryer. A baby crib or a cot can be supplied if required. Pet-friendly rooms, with free wireless Internet service. }} * {{sleep | name=Coast Tsawwassen Inn | alt= | url=https://www.coasthotels.com/hotels/bc/delta/coast-tsawwassen-inn/ | email= | address=1665 56 Street | lat=49.033482 | long=-123.069265 | directions= | phone=+1 604-943-8221 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From $219 | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=A reasonably priced hotel, with good accommodations and is on a major road. All-suite rooms come with a range of amenities, including complimentary parking, continental breakfast, Wi-Fi. }} * {{Sleep|name=Delta Hotels Vancouver Delta|url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yvrdd-delta-hotels-vancouver-delta/overview/?scid=f2ae0541-1279-4f24-b197-a979c79310b0|address=6005 Highway 17A|lat=49.10992|long=-123.05639|phone=+1 604-382-8222|lastedit=2023-05-30|content=Adjacent to a casino in the same building.}} == Cope == === Newspaper === * {{Listing|name=Delta Optimist|url=https://www.delta-optimist.com/|phone=+1 604-946-4451|lastedit=2023-05-30}} * {{listing | name=North Delta Reporter | alt= | url=https://www.northdeltareporter.com/ | email=editor@northdeltareporter.com | address=15288 54a Ave Unit 210, Surrey | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 604-575-5346 | tollfree= | hours=Monday – Friday: 8:30am – 5pm | price= | lastedit=2024-07-10 | content= }} === Hospital === * {{listing | name=Delta Hospital | alt= | url=https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Locations/Delta/delta-hospital | email= | address=5800 Mountain View Blvd | lat=49.0857 | long=-123.06159 | directions= | phone=+1 604-946-1121 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Delta Hospital | wikidata=Q20712289 | lastedit=2023-05-30 | content=Hospital with an emergency department operating 24/7. }} ==Go next== * [[Point Roberts]], an American exclave only accessible by land through Canada. Make sure you're eligible to enter before you go '''and''' that you'll have the necessary documents to re-enter Canada on your way back. {{routebox | image1=BC-10.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=ENDS at [[File:BC-91.svg|18px|link=]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]] | minorr1=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | image2=BC-17.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]] | minorl2=[[Sidney (British Columbia)|Sidney]] ← {{rint|ferry}} | directionr2=E | majorr2=END | minorr2=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | image3=BC-19.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=W | majorl3=[[Campbell River]] | minorl3=[[Nanaimo]] ← {{rint|ferry}} | directionr3=E | majorr3=ENDS at [[File:BC-17.svg|18px|link=]] | image4=BC-91.svg | imagesize4=22 | directionl4=&thinsp;N | majorl4=[[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] | minorl4=[[New Westminster]] via [[File:BC-91A.svg|18px|link=]] | directionr4=S | majorr4=ENDS at [[File:BC-99.svg|18px|link=]] | image5=BC-99.svg | imagesize5=22 | link5=Interstate 5 | directionl5=&thinsp;N | majorl5=[[Vancouver]] | minorl5=[[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] | directionr5=S | majorr5=[[Seattle]] | minorr5=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | image6=BC-blank.svg | imagesize6=22 | directionl6=&thinsp;N | majorl6=ENDS at [[File:BC-17.svg|18px|link=]] | minorl6= | directionr6=S | majorr6=[[Point Roberts]] | minorr6={{rint|passport}} }} {{isPartOf|Vancouver southern suburbs}} {{Usablecity}} {{geo|49.0903|-123.0574|zoom=14}} 2za6rc8pr8vzp9askcp9pyg8g8v5pif 5289005 5289004 2026-06-07T06:41:55Z ~2026-33432-01 2419418 /* By taxi */ 5289005 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Delta banner Deltaport at sunset.jpg|pgname=Delta}} '''[https://www.delta.ca/ Delta]''' is a city of 108,000 people (2021) in [[Vancouver southern suburbs|Vancouver's southern suburbs]]. It is a large area which includes three separate built-up areas: '''Tsawwassen''', '''Ladner''' and '''North Delta'''. It is surrounded by water on three sides, the Strait of Georgia to the west, Fraser river, to the north, and Boundary Bay to the south. The city of [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] makes up the eastern border. ==Understand== ===History=== Prior to European settlement, Delta's flatlands and coastal shores were inhabited by the Tsawwassen indigenous peoples, of the Coast Salish First Nations. The land was first sighted by Europeans in 1791, when Spanish explorer Lieutenant Francisco de Eliza mistook the area for an island and named it "Isla Capeda". The first European settler in Delta was James Kennedy who pre-empted 135 acres in what later became Annieville in February 1860. Thomas and William Ladner, began farming the area named after them in 1868. Farming and fishing helped the community grow quickly over the next few decades. In 1879, the area was incorporated as a municipality, named "the Corporation of Delta", and the village of Ladner was made as its administrative centre. Due to its geography, Delta was a relatively isolated community. The completion of the George Massey Tunnel in 1959 linking Ladner to Richmond and Vancouver along with the opening, in 1960, of the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal and the Highway 99 being rerouted from the King George Highway in Surrey in 1962 to a new route through Delta, ended Delta's isolation and resulted in a massive 400% population growth over the next 20 years. The 1986 completion of the Alex Fraser Bridge connecting North Delta to New Westminster and Vancouver also helped Delta's growth. ===Communities=== Delta comprises three distinct, geographically separate communities: *'''North Delta''' (pop: 51,623) is home to over half of Delta's population. It is a largely suburban area in north-east Delta bordered by the Burns Bog and Surrey. *'''Ladner''' (pop: 21,112) is a 19th-century fishing village in north-west Delta that has expanded into a suburb. Fishing and farming are important industries. Ladner Trunk Road is its main street. *'''Tsawwassen''' (pop: 20,933) is a suburban community in south-west Delta that calls itself the sunniest place in Metro Vancouver. Luxury waterfront homes line Tsawwassen's coast. Tsawwassen is also home to the busy Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal which links the mainland to Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Tsawwassen, together with Ladner are also known as South Delta. ==Get in== See [[Vancouver]] for options to get in the Vancouver area by plane, by bus, and by train, and by boat. === By car === '''Highway 99''' travels from the US border (where it becomes I5) through Delta and north to Richmond. '''Highway 10''' travels east-west to Surrey. '''Highway 17''' travels from Highway 99 in Ladner south to Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal. ==== Border crossing ==== * {{go|name=Boundary Bay - Point Roberts|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=49.0021|long=-123.0684|directions=Delta, BC (56th St) - [[Point Roberts|Point Roberts, WA]] (Tyee Drive)|phone=|tollfree=|hours=24/7|price=|lastedit=2023-08-07|content=Open to all vehicles. Point Roberts is on a peninsula. It is typically only reached from Canada and from other areas of the United States via this border crossing.|wikipedia=Point Roberts–Boundary Bay Border Crossing|wikidata=Q24190245}} === By boat === * {{go | name=BC Ferries | alt= | url=https://www.bcferries.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-888-223-3779 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=BC Ferries | wikidata=Q795723 | lastedit=2022-04-30 | content=Operates ferries connecting British Columbia coastal communities. }} ** {{go | name=Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal | alt= | url=https://www.bcferries.com/travel-boarding/terminal-directions-parking-food/vancouver-tsawwassen/TSA | email= | address=1 Ferry Causeway | lat=49.0074 | long=-123.1303 | directions=connects directly with Highway 17 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tsawwassen ferry terminal | wikidata=Q1656648 | lastedit=2022-04-30 | content= }} *** Destinations served by this terminal, all using ferries that carry vehicles and foot passengers **** [[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]] (Swartz Bay) ferry terminal near [[Sidney (British Columbia)|Sidney]] (1 hour 35 minutes crossing). Inbound and outbound ferries normally depart at the top of the hour on odd numbered hours with first departure normally at 7 am and with last departure normally at 9 pm. During the summer, ferries depart hourly for most of the day. **** [[Southern Gulf Islands]] ([[Galiano Island]], [[Mayne Island]], [[Pender Island]], [[Saltspring Island]], and [[Saturna Island]]) (crossing time depends on how many stops made along the way and if a transfer is required; Galiano is the nearest of the islands and has a crossing time of 55 minutes), operating a limited number of trips each day. Transfers between ferries may be required for some trips. **** [[Nanaimo]] (Duke Point) ferry terminal (2 hour crossing), departing every 2.5 hours. Inbound and outbound ferries' normal daily departure times are at 5:15 am, 7:45 am, 10:15 am, 12:45 pm, 3:15 pm, 5:45 pm, 7:15 pm, and 10:45 pm, except that on Saturdays, the last departures are at 5:45 pm, and on Sundays, the first departures are at 10:15 am. ***Reservations ****Reservations can be completed on BC Ferries' website or by phone. ****Reservations are a generally good idea, as ferries can fill up. If you book far enough in advance and prepay with saver fare is available, you may even pay less than showing up at the terminal. Otherwise, reservations increase the cost of the trip, between increasing cost between $2.50 extra and $17, depending on which option you choose. ****For ferries serving the Southern Gulf Island, reservations are free and are strongly recommended, especially in the summer. ****Drivers must redeem their reservation at the ferry terminal at least 30 minutes before the scheduled sailing or they lose their guarantee to be on the sailing and are given the same priority as anyone else showing up at the ferry terminal without a reservation. ***Public transit ****[https://www.translink.ca/ TransLink's] bus route 620 operates limited stop service between Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] and the ferry terminal via Ladner Exchange in Delta. ****Victoria (Swartz Bay) ferry terminal is served by [https://www.bctransit.com/victoria BC Transit] on several routes including *****70, 71, and 72. Routes between Victoria and Swartz Bay ferry terminal stopping along the way in [[Sidney (British Columbia)|Sidney]]. Route 70 makes limited stops and is the fastest option. On route 70, travel time to downtown Victoria from Swartz Bay ferry terminal is about 50-55 minutes, from Sidney is 45-50 minutes, and from McTavish Exchange is 35-40 minutes. On routes 71 and 72, travel time to downtown Victoria from Swartz Bay ferry terminal is 75-85 minutes. *****Route 81, a bus route connecting to Butchart Gardens (in Brentwood) via Sidney ****Saltspring Island (Long Harbour) ferry terminal is served by [https://www.bctransit.com/salt-spring-island BC Transit] by bus route 4, which travels to the island's hamlet of Ganges ****No other destination ferry terminals served from Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal have public transit. For travel to Nanaimo, you are better off traveling between Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) ferry terminal and [[Nanaimo]] (Departure Bay) ferry terminal, which have public transit serving both ferry terminals, see [[West Vancouver#By boat|West Vancouver]] for more information. ***Parking options ****Short-term and long-term parking are available at the ferry terminal, but parking availability may be limited at peak times. BC Ferries' website [https://www.bcferries.com/travel-boarding/terminal-directions-parking-food/vancouver-tsawwassen/TSA identifies the current amount of long-term parking remaining]. As of 2022, the long-term parking lot costs $17 per 24 hours. ****{{go|name=Tsawwassen Ferry Park and Go|alt=Tsawwassen RV Resort|url=https://parkandgo.ca/|email=ferryparkandgo@gmail.com|address=4761 NuLelum Way|lat=49.03255|long=-123.09160|phone=+1 604 943-9991|price=$15 per day|lastedit=2022-08-21|content=Parking fee includes a complimentary shuttle to and from the ferry terminal. In the evening, depending on when your ferry arrives at the terminal, you may need to call for a pick up.}} ***Amenities **** Wi-Fi: Free service at the ferry terminal. Not offered on the ferries. **** Washrooms: Available in the terminal and on board ferries. **** Eating and shopping: Several fast food restaurants and shops are located within the terminal. A cafeteria style-restaurant and a gift shop are on board the ferries. ==Get around== {{Mapframe}} {{Mapshape}} The Alex Fraser Bridge links Delta to New Westminster and Richmond. Public transportation in Delta is provided by the South Coast British Columbia Transportation Authority bus system. There is no rapid transit system in Delta, though the SkyTrain system in Surrey comes within 3 km of the city's borders. === By public transit === {{listing | name=TransLink | alt= | url=https://www.translink.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-604-953-3333 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=TransLink (British Columbia) | wikidata=Q1142140 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=The main public transit network in the [[Vancouver]] area, including: [[Bowen Island]], [[Burnaby]], [[Coquitlam]], Delta, [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]], [[Lions_Bay-Britannia_Beach|Lions Bay]], [[Maple Ridge]], [[New Westminster]], [[North Vancouver]], [[Port Coquitlam]], [[Pitt Meadows]], [[Port Moody]], [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]], [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], Vancouver, [[West Vancouver]], and [[White Rock]]. Its network includes buses, SkyTrain (rail rapid transit), SeaBus (ferries), West Coast Express (commuter rail), and HandyDART (door-to-door shared-ride service for those who cannot ride public transit without assistance). }} {{pbri}} Passengers can pay for fares using Compass Cards ($6 refundable deposit), Compass Tickets, or tap-to-pay using contactless credit cards (only American Express, Mastercard or Visa) or mobile wallets. Passengers using Compass Cards and Compass Tickets pay discounted fares. Passengers can transfer for up to 90 minutes, except if taking West Coast Express, in which case they can transfer for up to 120 minutes. On bus and HandyDART, passengers can also pay in cash, but in that case will not receive change and are not eligible for transfers. {{pbri}} Zone based fares apply between Monday and Friday for trips starting before 6:30 pm, if travel involves SkyTrain or SeaBus. Outside of those hours or for travel on only bus or HandyDART, a single zone rate applies. If traveling by West Coast Express, a higher cost zone based fare system applies regardless of time of travel. {{pbri}} Children 12 and under can ride for free. People aged 13 to 18, and 65 and older pay discounted concession fares. ==== By bus ==== Notable bus routes serving Delta include the following, which operate daily unless otherwise noted: *R6 - Between Scott Road station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] and Newton Exchange in Surrey. Operates daily with numerous trips. This is a limited stop, rapid bus service. Travels along Scott Road and 72 Ave. Scott Road is the border between Surrey and Delta. *301 - Between Newton Exchange and Brighouse station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] with stops north Delta. Operates daily with numerous trips. *310 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and Ladner Exchange, connecting North Delta and Ladner areas of Delta. *319 - Between Scott Road station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in Surrey and Newton Exchange in Surrey. Operates daily with numerous trips. It follows the same route as Route R6, but with more stops. Travels along Scott Road and 72 Ave. Scott Road is the border between Surrey and Delta. *340 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and 22nd Street Station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in [[New Westminster]] with stops in north Delta. *364 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and Langley Centre in [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]]. For a portion of the route, it travels along Scott Road, which is the boundary between Delta and Surrey. * 601 - Between South Delta (Tsawwassen) and Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in Richmond with stops in the Ladner including Ladner Exchange * 620 - Between Tsawwassen ferry terminal and Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in Richmond. * 640 - Between Ladner Exchange and Scott Road station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in Surrey. === By taxi === * {{Listing|name=Green Cab|alt=Delta Taxi|url=https://deltataxi.com/|phone=+1 604 594-1111|lastedit=2022-02-28}} * {{Listing|name=Newton Whalley Hi-Way Taxi Ltd|url=http://www.whalleytaxi.com/|phone=+1 604-581-1111|lastedit=2022-02-28}} * {{go | name=Signature Black Car Service – Delta Limousine Service & Tsawwassen Ferry Transfers | alt= | url=https://www.signaturecarservice.ca/delta-limo-chauffeur-service/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=778-651-7711 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-07 | content= }} === By ride hailing === * {{Listing|name=Kabu|url=https://www.kabu.ca/|lastedit=2022-07-29}} * {{listing | name=Lyft | alt= | url=https://www.lyft.com/rider/cities/vancouver-bc | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lyft | wikidata=Q17077936 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/vancouver/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Uber | wikidata=Q780442 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} ==See== [[File:George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary (4552677019).jpg|thumb|George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary]] *{{see | name=Boundary Bay Regional Park | alt= | url=https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/park/boundary-bay-regional-park | email=regionalparks.info@metrovancouver.org | address= | lat=49.013226 | long=-123.048547 | directions= | phone=+1 604-520-6442 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q121456264 | content=It has a Centennial Beach, a popular sandy beach. During low tide, a huge area of water disappears, revealing wet sand and occasional sections ankle deep water that enable you to walk quite far out into Boundary Bay. There is also great birdwatching park as an internationally recognized Important Bird Area on the Pacific Flyway. }} *{{see | name=George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary | alt= | url=http://www.reifelbirdsanctuary.com/ | email= | address=5191 Robertson Road | lat=49.097398 | long=-123.166048 | directions= | phone=+1 604-946-6980 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM - 4PM, reservations required | price=Adults $5, children (2-14 yr) $3, seniors (60 yrs+) $3 | wikipedia=George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary | wikidata=Q5090526 | lastedit=2022-01-06 | content=A migratory bird sanctuary that is protect by the Government of Canada. Visitors are able to see a wide variety of birds in the wild. There is a fee to access the trails of the park (unlike Boundary Bay Regional Park, which has free access). Delta often wins the annual bird count for the most species of birds observed, so either of these parks are great places for bird-lovers. No dogs or bicycles. }} * {{see | name=Delta Nature Reserve | alt= | url=https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/park/delta-nature-reserve | email= | address=access via the eastern side of the Planet Ice complex located at the east end of Nordel Court | lat=49.1433 | long=-122.9291 | directions= | phone=+1 604-520-6442 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5000058 | lastedit=2023-07-29 | content=Walk along a raised boardwalk through the only part of the Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area that is open to the public. Burns Bog is the largest raised peat bog in Canada and most of it is protected from development. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Angel Estate Winery | alt= | url= | email= | address=2170 Westham Island Rd | lat=49.089974 | long=-123.162997 | directions= | phone=+1 604-940-9755 | tollfree= | hours=Daily | price=Tasting free | lastedit=2019-07-08 | content=The first winery in Delta. }} * {{do | name=Wellbrook Winery tasting | alt= | url=http://wellbrookwinery.com/ | email= | address=4626 88th St | lat=49.086728 | long=-122.9772584 | directions= | phone=+1 604-946-1868 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A turn-of-the-(19th-20th)-century atmosphere. }} * {{do | name=Sungod Recreation Centre | alt= | url=https://www.delta.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/park-and-amenity-search/sungod-recreation-centre | email= | address=7815 112 St | lat=49.14542 | long=-122.91479 | directions= | phone=+1 604-952-3075 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7640235 | lastedit=2022-01-06 | content= }} ==Buy== [[File:Tsawwassen Mills Outlet Shopping Mall (29599854553).jpg|thumb|Tsawwassen Mills]] * {{buy | name=Tsawwassen Mills | alt= | url=https://www.tsawwassenmills.com/ | email=info@tsawwassenmills.com | address=Hwy 17 just past 52nd Street | lat=49.0381 | long=-123.086 | directions= | phone=+1 604-948-9889 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-9PM; Su 10AM-7PM | price= | wikipedia=Tsawwassen Mills | wikidata=Q24190526 | lastedit=2021-09-17 | content=179 stores. From Bridgeport Station Canada Line (Bay 7), take bus #601 (South Delta via Ladner Exchange) or #620 (Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal) and get off at 52nd St. In the return direction, the stop for the #601 is more convenient to get to than the stop for the #620. }} * {{buy | name=Scottsdale Centre | alt= | url=https://scottsdalecentre.ca | email= | address=7113A 120 St | lat=49.131666 | long=-122.892143 | directions=at the corner of Scott Road and 72 Avenue | phone=+1 604-599-1045 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=40 shops and services including Save On Foods, BC Government Liquor Store, Dollarama, and Walmart. }} * {{buy | name=Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall | alt= | url=https://www.tsawwassentowncentremall.com | email= | address=1315 56th St | lat=49.026731 | long=-123.070392 | directions=56th Street and 12th Avenue | phone=+1 604-943-1735 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9:30AM-6PM; Su & holidays noon-5PM | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Joe’s Farm Market, Thrifty Foods, Library, B.C. Liquor Store. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name= SkyHawk Restaurant | alt= | url=http://skyhawkrestaurant.ca | email= | address=7800 Alpha Way #102 | lat=49.080613 | long=-123.009024 | directions=follow signs to Boundary Bay Airport Terminal, enter main terminal doors, and turn right | phone=+1 778 434-1238 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 8AM-10PM | price= | content= An unmatched location for pilots and aviation buffs — right in the terminal at Boundary Bay Airport (CZBB). Overlooks the apron, so you can watch planes come and go as you eat. Outdoor patio is delightful on sunny days. Serviceable breakfasts, burgers, steaks, pasta, and Asian food. In addition to being an easy "hundred dollar hamburger" for pilots, it's surprisingly busy with locals celebrating birthdays or family gatherings. }} *{{eat | name=Speed's Neighborhood Pub | alt= | url=https://www.speedspubladner.ca/ | email= | address=4943 Chisholm St | lat=49.092916 | long=-123.08677 | directions= | phone=+1 604-940-2245 | tollfree= | hours= | price=cheap | content=Great pub food with a waterfront location. }} * {{eat | name=Primerose Mediterranean Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.theprimerose.com/ | email= | address=6165 Highway 17A, Ladner | lat=49.110939 | long=-123.053325 | directions= | phone=+1 604-940-0200 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-F 11AM-2PM; Tu-Su 4PM-late | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Family recipes from Oropos, Greece; local Delta/Richmond produce and other ingredients in freshly made dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Tasty Indian Bistro | alt= | url=https://tastybistro.ca/ | email=info@tastybistro.com | address=8295 120th St | lat=49.154235 | long=-122.890931 | directions= | phone=+1 604-507-9393 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:30AM-late | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=A high end Indian restaurant that live up to its name. Valet parking available. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Pat Quinn's Restaurant and Bar | alt= | url=https://www.patquinns.com/ | email= | address=5133 Springs Blvd | lat=49.032412 | long=-123.081272 | directions= | phone=+1 604-948-1123 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 11AM-11PM; Sa Su 10:30AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Happy hour daily 2-6PM and F Sa 9-11PM. Pizza, pasta, steak, seafood. }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Beach Grove Motel | alt= | url=http://www.beachgrovemotel.com | email=manager@beachgrovemotel.com | address=5921 12 Ave | lat=49.025008 | long=-123.059732 | directions= | phone=+1 604-943-2632 | tollfree=+1-877-943-2632 | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price=From $89 | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Laundromat with coin-operated washer and dryer. A baby crib or a cot can be supplied if required. Pet-friendly rooms, with free wireless Internet service. }} * {{sleep | name=Coast Tsawwassen Inn | alt= | url=https://www.coasthotels.com/hotels/bc/delta/coast-tsawwassen-inn/ | email= | address=1665 56 Street | lat=49.033482 | long=-123.069265 | directions= | phone=+1 604-943-8221 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From $219 | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=A reasonably priced hotel, with good accommodations and is on a major road. All-suite rooms come with a range of amenities, including complimentary parking, continental breakfast, Wi-Fi. }} * {{Sleep|name=Delta Hotels Vancouver Delta|url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yvrdd-delta-hotels-vancouver-delta/overview/?scid=f2ae0541-1279-4f24-b197-a979c79310b0|address=6005 Highway 17A|lat=49.10992|long=-123.05639|phone=+1 604-382-8222|lastedit=2023-05-30|content=Adjacent to a casino in the same building.}} == Cope == === Newspaper === * {{Listing|name=Delta Optimist|url=https://www.delta-optimist.com/|phone=+1 604-946-4451|lastedit=2023-05-30}} * {{listing | name=North Delta Reporter | alt= | url=https://www.northdeltareporter.com/ | email=editor@northdeltareporter.com | address=15288 54a Ave Unit 210, Surrey | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 604-575-5346 | tollfree= | hours=Monday – Friday: 8:30am – 5pm | price= | lastedit=2024-07-10 | content= }} === Hospital === * {{listing | name=Delta Hospital | alt= | url=https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Locations/Delta/delta-hospital | email= | address=5800 Mountain View Blvd | lat=49.0857 | long=-123.06159 | directions= | phone=+1 604-946-1121 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Delta Hospital | wikidata=Q20712289 | lastedit=2023-05-30 | content=Hospital with an emergency department operating 24/7. }} ==Go next== * [[Point Roberts]], an American exclave only accessible by land through Canada. Make sure you're eligible to enter before you go '''and''' that you'll have the necessary documents to re-enter Canada on your way back. {{routebox | image1=BC-10.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=ENDS at [[File:BC-91.svg|18px|link=]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]] | minorr1=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | image2=BC-17.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]] | minorl2=[[Sidney (British Columbia)|Sidney]] ← {{rint|ferry}} | directionr2=E | majorr2=END | minorr2=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | image3=BC-19.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=W | majorl3=[[Campbell River]] | minorl3=[[Nanaimo]] ← {{rint|ferry}} | directionr3=E | majorr3=ENDS at [[File:BC-17.svg|18px|link=]] | image4=BC-91.svg | imagesize4=22 | directionl4=&thinsp;N | majorl4=[[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] | minorl4=[[New Westminster]] via [[File:BC-91A.svg|18px|link=]] | directionr4=S | majorr4=ENDS at [[File:BC-99.svg|18px|link=]] | image5=BC-99.svg | imagesize5=22 | link5=Interstate 5 | directionl5=&thinsp;N | majorl5=[[Vancouver]] | minorl5=[[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] | directionr5=S | majorr5=[[Seattle]] | minorr5=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | image6=BC-blank.svg | imagesize6=22 | directionl6=&thinsp;N | majorl6=ENDS at [[File:BC-17.svg|18px|link=]] | minorl6= | directionr6=S | majorr6=[[Point Roberts]] | minorr6={{rint|passport}} }} {{isPartOf|Vancouver southern suburbs}} {{Usablecity}} {{geo|49.0903|-123.0574|zoom=14}} 4wka7jrdmv4mvy7fdwc3bsiqewdwr5w 5289007 5289005 2026-06-07T06:45:08Z ~2026-33432-01 2419418 /* By taxi */ Updated listing for Signature Black Car Service – Delta Limousine Service & Tsawwassen Ferry Transfers 5289007 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Delta banner Deltaport at sunset.jpg|pgname=Delta}} '''[https://www.delta.ca/ Delta]''' is a city of 108,000 people (2021) in [[Vancouver southern suburbs|Vancouver's southern suburbs]]. It is a large area which includes three separate built-up areas: '''Tsawwassen''', '''Ladner''' and '''North Delta'''. It is surrounded by water on three sides, the Strait of Georgia to the west, Fraser river, to the north, and Boundary Bay to the south. The city of [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] makes up the eastern border. ==Understand== ===History=== Prior to European settlement, Delta's flatlands and coastal shores were inhabited by the Tsawwassen indigenous peoples, of the Coast Salish First Nations. The land was first sighted by Europeans in 1791, when Spanish explorer Lieutenant Francisco de Eliza mistook the area for an island and named it "Isla Capeda". The first European settler in Delta was James Kennedy who pre-empted 135 acres in what later became Annieville in February 1860. Thomas and William Ladner, began farming the area named after them in 1868. Farming and fishing helped the community grow quickly over the next few decades. In 1879, the area was incorporated as a municipality, named "the Corporation of Delta", and the village of Ladner was made as its administrative centre. Due to its geography, Delta was a relatively isolated community. The completion of the George Massey Tunnel in 1959 linking Ladner to Richmond and Vancouver along with the opening, in 1960, of the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal and the Highway 99 being rerouted from the King George Highway in Surrey in 1962 to a new route through Delta, ended Delta's isolation and resulted in a massive 400% population growth over the next 20 years. The 1986 completion of the Alex Fraser Bridge connecting North Delta to New Westminster and Vancouver also helped Delta's growth. ===Communities=== Delta comprises three distinct, geographically separate communities: *'''North Delta''' (pop: 51,623) is home to over half of Delta's population. It is a largely suburban area in north-east Delta bordered by the Burns Bog and Surrey. *'''Ladner''' (pop: 21,112) is a 19th-century fishing village in north-west Delta that has expanded into a suburb. Fishing and farming are important industries. Ladner Trunk Road is its main street. *'''Tsawwassen''' (pop: 20,933) is a suburban community in south-west Delta that calls itself the sunniest place in Metro Vancouver. Luxury waterfront homes line Tsawwassen's coast. Tsawwassen is also home to the busy Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal which links the mainland to Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Tsawwassen, together with Ladner are also known as South Delta. ==Get in== See [[Vancouver]] for options to get in the Vancouver area by plane, by bus, and by train, and by boat. === By car === '''Highway 99''' travels from the US border (where it becomes I5) through Delta and north to Richmond. '''Highway 10''' travels east-west to Surrey. '''Highway 17''' travels from Highway 99 in Ladner south to Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal. ==== Border crossing ==== * {{go|name=Boundary Bay - Point Roberts|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=49.0021|long=-123.0684|directions=Delta, BC (56th St) - [[Point Roberts|Point Roberts, WA]] (Tyee Drive)|phone=|tollfree=|hours=24/7|price=|lastedit=2023-08-07|content=Open to all vehicles. Point Roberts is on a peninsula. It is typically only reached from Canada and from other areas of the United States via this border crossing.|wikipedia=Point Roberts–Boundary Bay Border Crossing|wikidata=Q24190245}} === By boat === * {{go | name=BC Ferries | alt= | url=https://www.bcferries.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-888-223-3779 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=BC Ferries | wikidata=Q795723 | lastedit=2022-04-30 | content=Operates ferries connecting British Columbia coastal communities. }} ** {{go | name=Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal | alt= | url=https://www.bcferries.com/travel-boarding/terminal-directions-parking-food/vancouver-tsawwassen/TSA | email= | address=1 Ferry Causeway | lat=49.0074 | long=-123.1303 | directions=connects directly with Highway 17 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tsawwassen ferry terminal | wikidata=Q1656648 | lastedit=2022-04-30 | content= }} *** Destinations served by this terminal, all using ferries that carry vehicles and foot passengers **** [[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]] (Swartz Bay) ferry terminal near [[Sidney (British Columbia)|Sidney]] (1 hour 35 minutes crossing). Inbound and outbound ferries normally depart at the top of the hour on odd numbered hours with first departure normally at 7 am and with last departure normally at 9 pm. During the summer, ferries depart hourly for most of the day. **** [[Southern Gulf Islands]] ([[Galiano Island]], [[Mayne Island]], [[Pender Island]], [[Saltspring Island]], and [[Saturna Island]]) (crossing time depends on how many stops made along the way and if a transfer is required; Galiano is the nearest of the islands and has a crossing time of 55 minutes), operating a limited number of trips each day. Transfers between ferries may be required for some trips. **** [[Nanaimo]] (Duke Point) ferry terminal (2 hour crossing), departing every 2.5 hours. Inbound and outbound ferries' normal daily departure times are at 5:15 am, 7:45 am, 10:15 am, 12:45 pm, 3:15 pm, 5:45 pm, 7:15 pm, and 10:45 pm, except that on Saturdays, the last departures are at 5:45 pm, and on Sundays, the first departures are at 10:15 am. ***Reservations ****Reservations can be completed on BC Ferries' website or by phone. ****Reservations are a generally good idea, as ferries can fill up. If you book far enough in advance and prepay with saver fare is available, you may even pay less than showing up at the terminal. Otherwise, reservations increase the cost of the trip, between increasing cost between $2.50 extra and $17, depending on which option you choose. ****For ferries serving the Southern Gulf Island, reservations are free and are strongly recommended, especially in the summer. ****Drivers must redeem their reservation at the ferry terminal at least 30 minutes before the scheduled sailing or they lose their guarantee to be on the sailing and are given the same priority as anyone else showing up at the ferry terminal without a reservation. ***Public transit ****[https://www.translink.ca/ TransLink's] bus route 620 operates limited stop service between Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] and the ferry terminal via Ladner Exchange in Delta. ****Victoria (Swartz Bay) ferry terminal is served by [https://www.bctransit.com/victoria BC Transit] on several routes including *****70, 71, and 72. Routes between Victoria and Swartz Bay ferry terminal stopping along the way in [[Sidney (British Columbia)|Sidney]]. Route 70 makes limited stops and is the fastest option. On route 70, travel time to downtown Victoria from Swartz Bay ferry terminal is about 50-55 minutes, from Sidney is 45-50 minutes, and from McTavish Exchange is 35-40 minutes. On routes 71 and 72, travel time to downtown Victoria from Swartz Bay ferry terminal is 75-85 minutes. *****Route 81, a bus route connecting to Butchart Gardens (in Brentwood) via Sidney ****Saltspring Island (Long Harbour) ferry terminal is served by [https://www.bctransit.com/salt-spring-island BC Transit] by bus route 4, which travels to the island's hamlet of Ganges ****No other destination ferry terminals served from Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal have public transit. For travel to Nanaimo, you are better off traveling between Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) ferry terminal and [[Nanaimo]] (Departure Bay) ferry terminal, which have public transit serving both ferry terminals, see [[West Vancouver#By boat|West Vancouver]] for more information. ***Parking options ****Short-term and long-term parking are available at the ferry terminal, but parking availability may be limited at peak times. BC Ferries' website [https://www.bcferries.com/travel-boarding/terminal-directions-parking-food/vancouver-tsawwassen/TSA identifies the current amount of long-term parking remaining]. As of 2022, the long-term parking lot costs $17 per 24 hours. ****{{go|name=Tsawwassen Ferry Park and Go|alt=Tsawwassen RV Resort|url=https://parkandgo.ca/|email=ferryparkandgo@gmail.com|address=4761 NuLelum Way|lat=49.03255|long=-123.09160|phone=+1 604 943-9991|price=$15 per day|lastedit=2022-08-21|content=Parking fee includes a complimentary shuttle to and from the ferry terminal. In the evening, depending on when your ferry arrives at the terminal, you may need to call for a pick up.}} ***Amenities **** Wi-Fi: Free service at the ferry terminal. Not offered on the ferries. **** Washrooms: Available in the terminal and on board ferries. **** Eating and shopping: Several fast food restaurants and shops are located within the terminal. A cafeteria style-restaurant and a gift shop are on board the ferries. ==Get around== {{Mapframe}} {{Mapshape}} The Alex Fraser Bridge links Delta to New Westminster and Richmond. Public transportation in Delta is provided by the South Coast British Columbia Transportation Authority bus system. There is no rapid transit system in Delta, though the SkyTrain system in Surrey comes within 3 km of the city's borders. === By public transit === {{listing | name=TransLink | alt= | url=https://www.translink.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-604-953-3333 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=TransLink (British Columbia) | wikidata=Q1142140 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=The main public transit network in the [[Vancouver]] area, including: [[Bowen Island]], [[Burnaby]], [[Coquitlam]], Delta, [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]], [[Lions_Bay-Britannia_Beach|Lions Bay]], [[Maple Ridge]], [[New Westminster]], [[North Vancouver]], [[Port Coquitlam]], [[Pitt Meadows]], [[Port Moody]], [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]], [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], Vancouver, [[West Vancouver]], and [[White Rock]]. Its network includes buses, SkyTrain (rail rapid transit), SeaBus (ferries), West Coast Express (commuter rail), and HandyDART (door-to-door shared-ride service for those who cannot ride public transit without assistance). }} {{pbri}} Passengers can pay for fares using Compass Cards ($6 refundable deposit), Compass Tickets, or tap-to-pay using contactless credit cards (only American Express, Mastercard or Visa) or mobile wallets. Passengers using Compass Cards and Compass Tickets pay discounted fares. Passengers can transfer for up to 90 minutes, except if taking West Coast Express, in which case they can transfer for up to 120 minutes. On bus and HandyDART, passengers can also pay in cash, but in that case will not receive change and are not eligible for transfers. {{pbri}} Zone based fares apply between Monday and Friday for trips starting before 6:30 pm, if travel involves SkyTrain or SeaBus. Outside of those hours or for travel on only bus or HandyDART, a single zone rate applies. If traveling by West Coast Express, a higher cost zone based fare system applies regardless of time of travel. {{pbri}} Children 12 and under can ride for free. People aged 13 to 18, and 65 and older pay discounted concession fares. ==== By bus ==== Notable bus routes serving Delta include the following, which operate daily unless otherwise noted: *R6 - Between Scott Road station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] and Newton Exchange in Surrey. Operates daily with numerous trips. This is a limited stop, rapid bus service. Travels along Scott Road and 72 Ave. Scott Road is the border between Surrey and Delta. *301 - Between Newton Exchange and Brighouse station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] with stops north Delta. Operates daily with numerous trips. *310 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and Ladner Exchange, connecting North Delta and Ladner areas of Delta. *319 - Between Scott Road station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in Surrey and Newton Exchange in Surrey. Operates daily with numerous trips. It follows the same route as Route R6, but with more stops. Travels along Scott Road and 72 Ave. Scott Road is the border between Surrey and Delta. *340 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and 22nd Street Station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in [[New Westminster]] with stops in north Delta. *364 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and Langley Centre in [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]]. For a portion of the route, it travels along Scott Road, which is the boundary between Delta and Surrey. * 601 - Between South Delta (Tsawwassen) and Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in Richmond with stops in the Ladner including Ladner Exchange * 620 - Between Tsawwassen ferry terminal and Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in Richmond. * 640 - Between Ladner Exchange and Scott Road station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in Surrey. === By taxi === * {{Listing|name=Green Cab|alt=Delta Taxi|url=https://deltataxi.com/|phone=+1 604 594-1111|lastedit=2022-02-28}} * {{Listing|name=Newton Whalley Hi-Way Taxi Ltd|url=http://www.whalleytaxi.com/|phone=+1 604-581-1111|lastedit=2022-02-28}} * {{go | name=Signature Black Car Service – Delta Limousine Service & Tsawwassen Ferry Transfers | alt= | url=https://www.signaturecarservice.ca/delta-limo-chauffeur-service/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 778-651-7711 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-07 | content= }} === By ride hailing === * {{Listing|name=Kabu|url=https://www.kabu.ca/|lastedit=2022-07-29}} * {{listing | name=Lyft | alt= | url=https://www.lyft.com/rider/cities/vancouver-bc | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lyft | wikidata=Q17077936 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/vancouver/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Uber | wikidata=Q780442 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} ==See== [[File:George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary (4552677019).jpg|thumb|George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary]] *{{see | name=Boundary Bay Regional Park | alt= | url=https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/park/boundary-bay-regional-park | email=regionalparks.info@metrovancouver.org | address= | lat=49.013226 | long=-123.048547 | directions= | phone=+1 604-520-6442 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q121456264 | content=It has a Centennial Beach, a popular sandy beach. During low tide, a huge area of water disappears, revealing wet sand and occasional sections ankle deep water that enable you to walk quite far out into Boundary Bay. There is also great birdwatching park as an internationally recognized Important Bird Area on the Pacific Flyway. }} *{{see | name=George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary | alt= | url=http://www.reifelbirdsanctuary.com/ | email= | address=5191 Robertson Road | lat=49.097398 | long=-123.166048 | directions= | phone=+1 604-946-6980 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM - 4PM, reservations required | price=Adults $5, children (2-14 yr) $3, seniors (60 yrs+) $3 | wikipedia=George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary | wikidata=Q5090526 | lastedit=2022-01-06 | content=A migratory bird sanctuary that is protect by the Government of Canada. Visitors are able to see a wide variety of birds in the wild. There is a fee to access the trails of the park (unlike Boundary Bay Regional Park, which has free access). Delta often wins the annual bird count for the most species of birds observed, so either of these parks are great places for bird-lovers. No dogs or bicycles. }} * {{see | name=Delta Nature Reserve | alt= | url=https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/park/delta-nature-reserve | email= | address=access via the eastern side of the Planet Ice complex located at the east end of Nordel Court | lat=49.1433 | long=-122.9291 | directions= | phone=+1 604-520-6442 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5000058 | lastedit=2023-07-29 | content=Walk along a raised boardwalk through the only part of the Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area that is open to the public. Burns Bog is the largest raised peat bog in Canada and most of it is protected from development. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Angel Estate Winery | alt= | url= | email= | address=2170 Westham Island Rd | lat=49.089974 | long=-123.162997 | directions= | phone=+1 604-940-9755 | tollfree= | hours=Daily | price=Tasting free | lastedit=2019-07-08 | content=The first winery in Delta. }} * {{do | name=Wellbrook Winery tasting | alt= | url=http://wellbrookwinery.com/ | email= | address=4626 88th St | lat=49.086728 | long=-122.9772584 | directions= | phone=+1 604-946-1868 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A turn-of-the-(19th-20th)-century atmosphere. }} * {{do | name=Sungod Recreation Centre | alt= | url=https://www.delta.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/park-and-amenity-search/sungod-recreation-centre | email= | address=7815 112 St | lat=49.14542 | long=-122.91479 | directions= | phone=+1 604-952-3075 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7640235 | lastedit=2022-01-06 | content= }} ==Buy== [[File:Tsawwassen Mills Outlet Shopping Mall (29599854553).jpg|thumb|Tsawwassen Mills]] * {{buy | name=Tsawwassen Mills | alt= | url=https://www.tsawwassenmills.com/ | email=info@tsawwassenmills.com | address=Hwy 17 just past 52nd Street | lat=49.0381 | long=-123.086 | directions= | phone=+1 604-948-9889 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-9PM; Su 10AM-7PM | price= | wikipedia=Tsawwassen Mills | wikidata=Q24190526 | lastedit=2021-09-17 | content=179 stores. From Bridgeport Station Canada Line (Bay 7), take bus #601 (South Delta via Ladner Exchange) or #620 (Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal) and get off at 52nd St. In the return direction, the stop for the #601 is more convenient to get to than the stop for the #620. }} * {{buy | name=Scottsdale Centre | alt= | url=https://scottsdalecentre.ca | email= | address=7113A 120 St | lat=49.131666 | long=-122.892143 | directions=at the corner of Scott Road and 72 Avenue | phone=+1 604-599-1045 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=40 shops and services including Save On Foods, BC Government Liquor Store, Dollarama, and Walmart. }} * {{buy | name=Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall | alt= | url=https://www.tsawwassentowncentremall.com | email= | address=1315 56th St | lat=49.026731 | long=-123.070392 | directions=56th Street and 12th Avenue | phone=+1 604-943-1735 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9:30AM-6PM; Su & holidays noon-5PM | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Joe’s Farm Market, Thrifty Foods, Library, B.C. Liquor Store. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name= SkyHawk Restaurant | alt= | url=http://skyhawkrestaurant.ca | email= | address=7800 Alpha Way #102 | lat=49.080613 | long=-123.009024 | directions=follow signs to Boundary Bay Airport Terminal, enter main terminal doors, and turn right | phone=+1 778 434-1238 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 8AM-10PM | price= | content= An unmatched location for pilots and aviation buffs — right in the terminal at Boundary Bay Airport (CZBB). Overlooks the apron, so you can watch planes come and go as you eat. Outdoor patio is delightful on sunny days. Serviceable breakfasts, burgers, steaks, pasta, and Asian food. In addition to being an easy "hundred dollar hamburger" for pilots, it's surprisingly busy with locals celebrating birthdays or family gatherings. }} *{{eat | name=Speed's Neighborhood Pub | alt= | url=https://www.speedspubladner.ca/ | email= | address=4943 Chisholm St | lat=49.092916 | long=-123.08677 | directions= | phone=+1 604-940-2245 | tollfree= | hours= | price=cheap | content=Great pub food with a waterfront location. }} * {{eat | name=Primerose Mediterranean Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.theprimerose.com/ | email= | address=6165 Highway 17A, Ladner | lat=49.110939 | long=-123.053325 | directions= | phone=+1 604-940-0200 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-F 11AM-2PM; Tu-Su 4PM-late | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Family recipes from Oropos, Greece; local Delta/Richmond produce and other ingredients in freshly made dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Tasty Indian Bistro | alt= | url=https://tastybistro.ca/ | email=info@tastybistro.com | address=8295 120th St | lat=49.154235 | long=-122.890931 | directions= | phone=+1 604-507-9393 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:30AM-late | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=A high end Indian restaurant that live up to its name. Valet parking available. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Pat Quinn's Restaurant and Bar | alt= | url=https://www.patquinns.com/ | email= | address=5133 Springs Blvd | lat=49.032412 | long=-123.081272 | directions= | phone=+1 604-948-1123 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 11AM-11PM; Sa Su 10:30AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Happy hour daily 2-6PM and F Sa 9-11PM. Pizza, pasta, steak, seafood. }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Beach Grove Motel | alt= | url=http://www.beachgrovemotel.com | email=manager@beachgrovemotel.com | address=5921 12 Ave | lat=49.025008 | long=-123.059732 | directions= | phone=+1 604-943-2632 | tollfree=+1-877-943-2632 | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price=From $89 | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Laundromat with coin-operated washer and dryer. A baby crib or a cot can be supplied if required. Pet-friendly rooms, with free wireless Internet service. }} * {{sleep | name=Coast Tsawwassen Inn | alt= | url=https://www.coasthotels.com/hotels/bc/delta/coast-tsawwassen-inn/ | email= | address=1665 56 Street | lat=49.033482 | long=-123.069265 | directions= | phone=+1 604-943-8221 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From $219 | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=A reasonably priced hotel, with good accommodations and is on a major road. All-suite rooms come with a range of amenities, including complimentary parking, continental breakfast, Wi-Fi. }} * {{Sleep|name=Delta Hotels Vancouver Delta|url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yvrdd-delta-hotels-vancouver-delta/overview/?scid=f2ae0541-1279-4f24-b197-a979c79310b0|address=6005 Highway 17A|lat=49.10992|long=-123.05639|phone=+1 604-382-8222|lastedit=2023-05-30|content=Adjacent to a casino in the same building.}} == Cope == === Newspaper === * {{Listing|name=Delta Optimist|url=https://www.delta-optimist.com/|phone=+1 604-946-4451|lastedit=2023-05-30}} * {{listing | name=North Delta Reporter | alt= | url=https://www.northdeltareporter.com/ | email=editor@northdeltareporter.com | address=15288 54a Ave Unit 210, Surrey | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 604-575-5346 | tollfree= | hours=Monday – Friday: 8:30am – 5pm | price= | lastedit=2024-07-10 | content= }} === Hospital === * {{listing | name=Delta Hospital | alt= | url=https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Locations/Delta/delta-hospital | email= | address=5800 Mountain View Blvd | lat=49.0857 | long=-123.06159 | directions= | phone=+1 604-946-1121 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Delta Hospital | wikidata=Q20712289 | lastedit=2023-05-30 | content=Hospital with an emergency department operating 24/7. }} ==Go next== * [[Point Roberts]], an American exclave only accessible by land through Canada. Make sure you're eligible to enter before you go '''and''' that you'll have the necessary documents to re-enter Canada on your way back. {{routebox | image1=BC-10.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=ENDS at [[File:BC-91.svg|18px|link=]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]] | minorr1=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | image2=BC-17.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]] | minorl2=[[Sidney (British Columbia)|Sidney]] ← {{rint|ferry}} | directionr2=E | majorr2=END | minorr2=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | image3=BC-19.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=W | majorl3=[[Campbell River]] | minorl3=[[Nanaimo]] ← {{rint|ferry}} | directionr3=E | majorr3=ENDS at [[File:BC-17.svg|18px|link=]] | image4=BC-91.svg | imagesize4=22 | directionl4=&thinsp;N | majorl4=[[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] | minorl4=[[New Westminster]] via [[File:BC-91A.svg|18px|link=]] | directionr4=S | majorr4=ENDS at [[File:BC-99.svg|18px|link=]] | image5=BC-99.svg | imagesize5=22 | link5=Interstate 5 | directionl5=&thinsp;N | majorl5=[[Vancouver]] | minorl5=[[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] | directionr5=S | majorr5=[[Seattle]] | minorr5=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | image6=BC-blank.svg | imagesize6=22 | directionl6=&thinsp;N | majorl6=ENDS at [[File:BC-17.svg|18px|link=]] | minorl6= | directionr6=S | majorr6=[[Point Roberts]] | minorr6={{rint|passport}} }} {{isPartOf|Vancouver southern suburbs}} {{Usablecity}} {{geo|49.0903|-123.0574|zoom=14}} qfcegnr93frjc782dgov1mr5trgtgit 5289034 5289007 2026-06-07T10:21:07Z Ikan Kekek 36420 Reverted edits by [[Special:Contributions/~2026-33432-01|~2026-33432-01]] ([[User talk:~2026-33432-01|talk]]) to last version by [[User:Fraicer|Fraicer]] 5040564 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Delta banner Deltaport at sunset.jpg|pgname=Delta}} '''[https://www.delta.ca/ Delta]''' is a city of 108,000 people (2021) in [[Vancouver southern suburbs|Vancouver's southern suburbs]]. It is a large area which includes three separate built-up areas: '''Tsawwassen''', '''Ladner''' and '''North Delta'''. It is surrounded by water on three sides, the Strait of Georgia to the west, Fraser river, to the north, and Boundary Bay to the south. The city of [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] makes up the eastern border. ==Understand== ===History=== Prior to European settlement, Delta's flatlands and coastal shores were inhabited by the Tsawwassen indigenous peoples, of the Coast Salish First Nations. The land was first sighted by Europeans in 1791, when Spanish explorer Lieutenant Francisco de Eliza mistook the area for an island and named it "Isla Capeda". The first European settler in Delta was James Kennedy who pre-empted 135 acres in what later became Annieville in February 1860. Thomas and William Ladner, began farming the area named after them in 1868. Farming and fishing helped the community grow quickly over the next few decades. In 1879, the area was incorporated as a municipality, named "the Corporation of Delta", and the village of Ladner was made as its administrative centre. Due to its geography, Delta was a relatively isolated community. The completion of the George Massey Tunnel in 1959 linking Ladner to Richmond and Vancouver along with the opening, in 1960, of the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal and the Highway 99 being rerouted from the King George Highway in Surrey in 1962 to a new route through Delta, ended Delta's isolation and resulted in a massive 400% population growth over the next 20 years. The 1986 completion of the Alex Fraser Bridge connecting North Delta to New Westminster and Vancouver also helped Delta's growth. ===Communities=== Delta comprises three distinct, geographically separate communities: *'''North Delta''' (pop: 51,623) is home to over half of Delta's population. It is a largely suburban area in north-east Delta bordered by the Burns Bog and Surrey. *'''Ladner''' (pop: 21,112) is a 19th-century fishing village in north-west Delta that has expanded into a suburb. Fishing and farming are important industries. Ladner Trunk Road is its main street. *'''Tsawwassen''' (pop: 20,933) is a suburban community in south-west Delta that calls itself the sunniest place in Metro Vancouver. Luxury waterfront homes line Tsawwassen's coast. Tsawwassen is also home to the busy Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal which links the mainland to Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Tsawwassen, together with Ladner are also known as South Delta. ==Get in== See [[Vancouver]] for options to get in the Vancouver area by plane, by bus, and by train, and by boat. === By car === '''Highway 99''' travels from the US border (where it becomes I5) through Delta and north to Richmond. '''Highway 10''' travels east-west to Surrey. '''Highway 17''' travels from Highway 99 in Ladner south to Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal. ==== Border crossing ==== * {{go|name=Boundary Bay - Point Roberts|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=49.0021|long=-123.0684|directions=Delta, BC (56th St) - [[Point Roberts|Point Roberts, WA]] (Tyee Drive)|phone=|tollfree=|hours=24/7|price=|lastedit=2023-08-07|content=Open to all vehicles. Point Roberts is on a peninsula. It is typically only reached from Canada and from other areas of the United States via this border crossing.|wikipedia=Point Roberts–Boundary Bay Border Crossing|wikidata=Q24190245}} === By boat === * {{go | name=BC Ferries | alt= | url=https://www.bcferries.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-888-223-3779 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=BC Ferries | wikidata=Q795723 | lastedit=2022-04-30 | content=Operates ferries connecting British Columbia coastal communities. }} ** {{go | name=Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal | alt= | url=https://www.bcferries.com/travel-boarding/terminal-directions-parking-food/vancouver-tsawwassen/TSA | email= | address=1 Ferry Causeway | lat=49.0074 | long=-123.1303 | directions=connects directly with Highway 17 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tsawwassen ferry terminal | wikidata=Q1656648 | lastedit=2022-04-30 | content= }} *** Destinations served by this terminal, all using ferries that carry vehicles and foot passengers **** [[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]] (Swartz Bay) ferry terminal near [[Sidney (British Columbia)|Sidney]] (1 hour 35 minutes crossing). Inbound and outbound ferries normally depart at the top of the hour on odd numbered hours with first departure normally at 7 am and with last departure normally at 9 pm. During the summer, ferries depart hourly for most of the day. **** [[Southern Gulf Islands]] ([[Galiano Island]], [[Mayne Island]], [[Pender Island]], [[Saltspring Island]], and [[Saturna Island]]) (crossing time depends on how many stops made along the way and if a transfer is required; Galiano is the nearest of the islands and has a crossing time of 55 minutes), operating a limited number of trips each day. Transfers between ferries may be required for some trips. **** [[Nanaimo]] (Duke Point) ferry terminal (2 hour crossing), departing every 2.5 hours. Inbound and outbound ferries' normal daily departure times are at 5:15 am, 7:45 am, 10:15 am, 12:45 pm, 3:15 pm, 5:45 pm, 7:15 pm, and 10:45 pm, except that on Saturdays, the last departures are at 5:45 pm, and on Sundays, the first departures are at 10:15 am. ***Reservations ****Reservations can be completed on BC Ferries' website or by phone. ****Reservations are a generally good idea, as ferries can fill up. If you book far enough in advance and prepay with saver fare is available, you may even pay less than showing up at the terminal. Otherwise, reservations increase the cost of the trip, between increasing cost between $2.50 extra and $17, depending on which option you choose. ****For ferries serving the Southern Gulf Island, reservations are free and are strongly recommended, especially in the summer. ****Drivers must redeem their reservation at the ferry terminal at least 30 minutes before the scheduled sailing or they lose their guarantee to be on the sailing and are given the same priority as anyone else showing up at the ferry terminal without a reservation. ***Public transit ****[https://www.translink.ca/ TransLink's] bus route 620 operates limited stop service between Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] and the ferry terminal via Ladner Exchange in Delta. ****Victoria (Swartz Bay) ferry terminal is served by [https://www.bctransit.com/victoria BC Transit] on several routes including *****70, 71, and 72. Routes between Victoria and Swartz Bay ferry terminal stopping along the way in [[Sidney (British Columbia)|Sidney]]. Route 70 makes limited stops and is the fastest option. On route 70, travel time to downtown Victoria from Swartz Bay ferry terminal is about 50-55 minutes, from Sidney is 45-50 minutes, and from McTavish Exchange is 35-40 minutes. On routes 71 and 72, travel time to downtown Victoria from Swartz Bay ferry terminal is 75-85 minutes. *****Route 81, a bus route connecting to Butchart Gardens (in Brentwood) via Sidney ****Saltspring Island (Long Harbour) ferry terminal is served by [https://www.bctransit.com/salt-spring-island BC Transit] by bus route 4, which travels to the island's hamlet of Ganges ****No other destination ferry terminals served from Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal have public transit. For travel to Nanaimo, you are better off traveling between Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) ferry terminal and [[Nanaimo]] (Departure Bay) ferry terminal, which have public transit serving both ferry terminals, see [[West Vancouver#By boat|West Vancouver]] for more information. ***Parking options ****Short-term and long-term parking are available at the ferry terminal, but parking availability may be limited at peak times. BC Ferries' website [https://www.bcferries.com/travel-boarding/terminal-directions-parking-food/vancouver-tsawwassen/TSA identifies the current amount of long-term parking remaining]. As of 2022, the long-term parking lot costs $17 per 24 hours. ****{{go|name=Tsawwassen Ferry Park and Go|alt=Tsawwassen RV Resort|url=https://parkandgo.ca/|email=ferryparkandgo@gmail.com|address=4761 NuLelum Way|lat=49.03255|long=-123.09160|phone=+1 604 943-9991|price=$15 per day|lastedit=2022-08-21|content=Parking fee includes a complimentary shuttle to and from the ferry terminal. In the evening, depending on when your ferry arrives at the terminal, you may need to call for a pick up.}} ***Amenities **** Wi-Fi: Free service at the ferry terminal. Not offered on the ferries. **** Washrooms: Available in the terminal and on board ferries. **** Eating and shopping: Several fast food restaurants and shops are located within the terminal. A cafeteria style-restaurant and a gift shop are on board the ferries. ==Get around== {{Mapframe}} {{Mapshape}} The Alex Fraser Bridge links Delta to New Westminster and Richmond. Public transportation in Delta is provided by the South Coast British Columbia Transportation Authority bus system. There is no rapid transit system in Delta, though the SkyTrain system in Surrey comes within 3 km of the city's borders. === By public transit === {{listing | name=TransLink | alt= | url=https://www.translink.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-604-953-3333 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=TransLink (British Columbia) | wikidata=Q1142140 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=The main public transit network in the [[Vancouver]] area, including: [[Bowen Island]], [[Burnaby]], [[Coquitlam]], Delta, [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]], [[Lions_Bay-Britannia_Beach|Lions Bay]], [[Maple Ridge]], [[New Westminster]], [[North Vancouver]], [[Port Coquitlam]], [[Pitt Meadows]], [[Port Moody]], [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]], [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], Vancouver, [[West Vancouver]], and [[White Rock]]. Its network includes buses, SkyTrain (rail rapid transit), SeaBus (ferries), West Coast Express (commuter rail), and HandyDART (door-to-door shared-ride service for those who cannot ride public transit without assistance). }} {{pbri}} Passengers can pay for fares using Compass Cards ($6 refundable deposit), Compass Tickets, or tap-to-pay using contactless credit cards (only American Express, Mastercard or Visa) or mobile wallets. Passengers using Compass Cards and Compass Tickets pay discounted fares. Passengers can transfer for up to 90 minutes, except if taking West Coast Express, in which case they can transfer for up to 120 minutes. On bus and HandyDART, passengers can also pay in cash, but in that case will not receive change and are not eligible for transfers. {{pbri}} Zone based fares apply between Monday and Friday for trips starting before 6:30 pm, if travel involves SkyTrain or SeaBus. Outside of those hours or for travel on only bus or HandyDART, a single zone rate applies. If traveling by West Coast Express, a higher cost zone based fare system applies regardless of time of travel. {{pbri}} Children 12 and under can ride for free. People aged 13 to 18, and 65 and older pay discounted concession fares. ==== By bus ==== Notable bus routes serving Delta include the following, which operate daily unless otherwise noted: *R6 - Between Scott Road station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] and Newton Exchange in Surrey. Operates daily with numerous trips. This is a limited stop, rapid bus service. Travels along Scott Road and 72 Ave. Scott Road is the border between Surrey and Delta. *301 - Between Newton Exchange and Brighouse station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] with stops north Delta. Operates daily with numerous trips. *310 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and Ladner Exchange, connecting North Delta and Ladner areas of Delta. *319 - Between Scott Road station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in Surrey and Newton Exchange in Surrey. Operates daily with numerous trips. It follows the same route as Route R6, but with more stops. Travels along Scott Road and 72 Ave. Scott Road is the border between Surrey and Delta. *340 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and 22nd Street Station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in [[New Westminster]] with stops in north Delta. *364 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and Langley Centre in [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]]. For a portion of the route, it travels along Scott Road, which is the boundary between Delta and Surrey. * 601 - Between South Delta (Tsawwassen) and Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in Richmond with stops in the Ladner including Ladner Exchange * 620 - Between Tsawwassen ferry terminal and Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in Richmond. * 640 - Between Ladner Exchange and Scott Road station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in Surrey. === By taxi === * {{Listing|name=Green Cab|alt=Delta Taxi|url=https://deltataxi.com/|phone=+1 604 594-1111|lastedit=2022-02-28}} * {{Listing|name=Newton Whalley Hi-Way Taxi Ltd|url=http://www.whalleytaxi.com/|phone=+1 604-581-1111|lastedit=2022-02-28}} === By ride hailing === * {{Listing|name=Kabu|url=https://www.kabu.ca/|lastedit=2022-07-29}} * {{listing | name=Lyft | alt= | url=https://www.lyft.com/rider/cities/vancouver-bc | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lyft | wikidata=Q17077936 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/vancouver/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Uber | wikidata=Q780442 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} ==See== [[File:George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary (4552677019).jpg|thumb|George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary]] *{{see | name=Boundary Bay Regional Park | alt= | url=https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/park/boundary-bay-regional-park | email=regionalparks.info@metrovancouver.org | address= | lat=49.013226 | long=-123.048547 | directions= | phone=+1 604-520-6442 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q121456264 | content=It has a Centennial Beach, a popular sandy beach. During low tide, a huge area of water disappears, revealing wet sand and occasional sections ankle deep water that enable you to walk quite far out into Boundary Bay. There is also great birdwatching park as an internationally recognized Important Bird Area on the Pacific Flyway. }} *{{see | name=George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary | alt= | url=http://www.reifelbirdsanctuary.com/ | email= | address=5191 Robertson Road | lat=49.097398 | long=-123.166048 | directions= | phone=+1 604-946-6980 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM - 4PM, reservations required | price=Adults $5, children (2-14 yr) $3, seniors (60 yrs+) $3 | wikipedia=George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary | wikidata=Q5090526 | lastedit=2022-01-06 | content=A migratory bird sanctuary that is protect by the Government of Canada. Visitors are able to see a wide variety of birds in the wild. There is a fee to access the trails of the park (unlike Boundary Bay Regional Park, which has free access). Delta often wins the annual bird count for the most species of birds observed, so either of these parks are great places for bird-lovers. No dogs or bicycles. }} * {{see | name=Delta Nature Reserve | alt= | url=https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/park/delta-nature-reserve | email= | address=access via the eastern side of the Planet Ice complex located at the east end of Nordel Court | lat=49.1433 | long=-122.9291 | directions= | phone=+1 604-520-6442 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5000058 | lastedit=2023-07-29 | content=Walk along a raised boardwalk through the only part of the Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area that is open to the public. Burns Bog is the largest raised peat bog in Canada and most of it is protected from development. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Angel Estate Winery | alt= | url= | email= | address=2170 Westham Island Rd | lat=49.089974 | long=-123.162997 | directions= | phone=+1 604-940-9755 | tollfree= | hours=Daily | price=Tasting free | lastedit=2019-07-08 | content=The first winery in Delta. }} * {{do | name=Wellbrook Winery tasting | alt= | url=http://wellbrookwinery.com/ | email= | address=4626 88th St | lat=49.086728 | long=-122.9772584 | directions= | phone=+1 604-946-1868 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A turn-of-the-(19th-20th)-century atmosphere. }} * {{do | name=Sungod Recreation Centre | alt= | url=https://www.delta.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/park-and-amenity-search/sungod-recreation-centre | email= | address=7815 112 St | lat=49.14542 | long=-122.91479 | directions= | phone=+1 604-952-3075 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7640235 | lastedit=2022-01-06 | content= }} ==Buy== [[File:Tsawwassen Mills Outlet Shopping Mall (29599854553).jpg|thumb|Tsawwassen Mills]] * {{buy | name=Tsawwassen Mills | alt= | url=https://www.tsawwassenmills.com/ | email=info@tsawwassenmills.com | address=Hwy 17 just past 52nd Street | lat=49.0381 | long=-123.086 | directions= | phone=+1 604-948-9889 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-9PM; Su 10AM-7PM | price= | wikipedia=Tsawwassen Mills | wikidata=Q24190526 | lastedit=2021-09-17 | content=179 stores. From Bridgeport Station Canada Line (Bay 7), take bus #601 (South Delta via Ladner Exchange) or #620 (Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal) and get off at 52nd St. In the return direction, the stop for the #601 is more convenient to get to than the stop for the #620. }} * {{buy | name=Scottsdale Centre | alt= | url=https://scottsdalecentre.ca | email= | address=7113A 120 St | lat=49.131666 | long=-122.892143 | directions=at the corner of Scott Road and 72 Avenue | phone=+1 604-599-1045 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=40 shops and services including Save On Foods, BC Government Liquor Store, Dollarama, and Walmart. }} * {{buy | name=Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall | alt= | url=https://www.tsawwassentowncentremall.com | email= | address=1315 56th St | lat=49.026731 | long=-123.070392 | directions=56th Street and 12th Avenue | phone=+1 604-943-1735 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9:30AM-6PM; Su & holidays noon-5PM | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Joe’s Farm Market, Thrifty Foods, Library, B.C. Liquor Store. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name= SkyHawk Restaurant | alt= | url=http://skyhawkrestaurant.ca | email= | address=7800 Alpha Way #102 | lat=49.080613 | long=-123.009024 | directions=follow signs to Boundary Bay Airport Terminal, enter main terminal doors, and turn right | phone=+1 778 434-1238 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 8AM-10PM | price= | content= An unmatched location for pilots and aviation buffs — right in the terminal at Boundary Bay Airport (CZBB). Overlooks the apron, so you can watch planes come and go as you eat. Outdoor patio is delightful on sunny days. Serviceable breakfasts, burgers, steaks, pasta, and Asian food. In addition to being an easy "hundred dollar hamburger" for pilots, it's surprisingly busy with locals celebrating birthdays or family gatherings. }} *{{eat | name=Speed's Neighborhood Pub | alt= | url=https://www.speedspubladner.ca/ | email= | address=4943 Chisholm St | lat=49.092916 | long=-123.08677 | directions= | phone=+1 604-940-2245 | tollfree= | hours= | price=cheap | content=Great pub food with a waterfront location. }} * {{eat | name=Primerose Mediterranean Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.theprimerose.com/ | email= | address=6165 Highway 17A, Ladner | lat=49.110939 | long=-123.053325 | directions= | phone=+1 604-940-0200 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-F 11AM-2PM; Tu-Su 4PM-late | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Family recipes from Oropos, Greece; local Delta/Richmond produce and other ingredients in freshly made dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Tasty Indian Bistro | alt= | url=https://tastybistro.ca/ | email=info@tastybistro.com | address=8295 120th St | lat=49.154235 | long=-122.890931 | directions= | phone=+1 604-507-9393 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:30AM-late | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=A high end Indian restaurant that live up to its name. Valet parking available. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Pat Quinn's Restaurant and Bar | alt= | url=https://www.patquinns.com/ | email= | address=5133 Springs Blvd | lat=49.032412 | long=-123.081272 | directions= | phone=+1 604-948-1123 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 11AM-11PM; Sa Su 10:30AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Happy hour daily 2-6PM and F Sa 9-11PM. Pizza, pasta, steak, seafood. }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Beach Grove Motel | alt= | url=http://www.beachgrovemotel.com | email=manager@beachgrovemotel.com | address=5921 12 Ave | lat=49.025008 | long=-123.059732 | directions= | phone=+1 604-943-2632 | tollfree=+1-877-943-2632 | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price=From $89 | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=Laundromat with coin-operated washer and dryer. A baby crib or a cot can be supplied if required. Pet-friendly rooms, with free wireless Internet service. }} * {{sleep | name=Coast Tsawwassen Inn | alt= | url=https://www.coasthotels.com/hotels/bc/delta/coast-tsawwassen-inn/ | email= | address=1665 56 Street | lat=49.033482 | long=-123.069265 | directions= | phone=+1 604-943-8221 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From $219 | lastedit=2018-05-05 | content=A reasonably priced hotel, with good accommodations and is on a major road. All-suite rooms come with a range of amenities, including complimentary parking, continental breakfast, Wi-Fi. }} * {{Sleep|name=Delta Hotels Vancouver Delta|url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yvrdd-delta-hotels-vancouver-delta/overview/?scid=f2ae0541-1279-4f24-b197-a979c79310b0|address=6005 Highway 17A|lat=49.10992|long=-123.05639|phone=+1 604-382-8222|lastedit=2023-05-30|content=Adjacent to a casino in the same building.}} == Cope == === Newspaper === * {{Listing|name=Delta Optimist|url=https://www.delta-optimist.com/|phone=+1 604-946-4451|lastedit=2023-05-30}} * {{listing | name=North Delta Reporter | alt= | url=https://www.northdeltareporter.com/ | email=editor@northdeltareporter.com | address=15288 54a Ave Unit 210, Surrey | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 604-575-5346 | tollfree= | hours=Monday – Friday: 8:30am – 5pm | price= | lastedit=2024-07-10 | content= }} === Hospital === * {{listing | name=Delta Hospital | alt= | url=https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Locations/Delta/delta-hospital | email= | address=5800 Mountain View Blvd | lat=49.0857 | long=-123.06159 | directions= | phone=+1 604-946-1121 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Delta Hospital | wikidata=Q20712289 | lastedit=2023-05-30 | content=Hospital with an emergency department operating 24/7. }} ==Go next== * [[Point Roberts]], an American exclave only accessible by land through Canada. Make sure you're eligible to enter before you go '''and''' that you'll have the necessary documents to re-enter Canada on your way back. {{routebox | image1=BC-10.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=ENDS at [[File:BC-91.svg|18px|link=]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]] | minorr1=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | image2=BC-17.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]] | minorl2=[[Sidney (British Columbia)|Sidney]] ← {{rint|ferry}} | directionr2=E | majorr2=END | minorr2=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | image3=BC-19.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=W | majorl3=[[Campbell River]] | minorl3=[[Nanaimo]] ← {{rint|ferry}} | directionr3=E | majorr3=ENDS at [[File:BC-17.svg|18px|link=]] | image4=BC-91.svg | imagesize4=22 | directionl4=&thinsp;N | majorl4=[[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] | minorl4=[[New Westminster]] via [[File:BC-91A.svg|18px|link=]] | directionr4=S | majorr4=ENDS at [[File:BC-99.svg|18px|link=]] | image5=BC-99.svg | imagesize5=22 | link5=Interstate 5 | directionl5=&thinsp;N | majorl5=[[Vancouver]] | minorl5=[[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]] | directionr5=S | majorr5=[[Seattle]] | minorr5=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | image6=BC-blank.svg | imagesize6=22 | directionl6=&thinsp;N | majorl6=ENDS at [[File:BC-17.svg|18px|link=]] | minorl6= | directionr6=S | majorr6=[[Point Roberts]] | minorr6={{rint|passport}} }} {{isPartOf|Vancouver southern suburbs}} {{Usablecity}} {{geo|49.0903|-123.0574|zoom=14}} 4khfrnzrj6xuevvu5yjcci5xsk1eypd 0 10209 5288840 5275233 2026-06-06T13:13:21Z ~2026-25168-20 2396992 5288840 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Durrës banner.jpg|caption=Roman circus panorama}} '''Durrës''' is [[Albania|Albania's]] chief port. Located on the shores of the Adriatic, Durrës is a lively town, organized around beach culture. ==Understand== In parts Durrës is attractive and well maintained. In others it is somewhat ramshackle, with both active and what appears to be abandoned development co-existing next to each other. To some degree, this is a feature of Durres geology. The area is in a tectonically active zone, with extremely unstable geology. The next earthquake will cause the ground to undergo liquefaction again, and much of the new development will have to be pruned back once more, before regrowing. Still, the city is alive. There are abundant shops, retail stalls and street traders. They appear to trade from early morning until late and provide an attractive "always on" vibe to the city. It has ferries to [[Bari]] and Ancona in ([[Italy]]) and bus connections to other Albanian and international destinations, often via Tirana. Alternative spellings of the city's name are ''Durazzo'' (Italian), ''Drač'' (Драч, Serbo-Croatian) or ''Dyrrhachion'' (Δυρράχιον, Greek). ==Get in== ===By boat=== [[File:Durrës Albania.jpg|thumb|Durrës panoramic view]] * {{go | name=Ferry Terminal | alt=Terminali i Trageteve | url=https://www.Durrësport.al/ | email= | address= | lat=41.31587 | long=19.45447 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q100343249 | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content= }} From specific destinations: * [[Bari]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [https://www.gnv.it/en , GNV Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Ventouris [https://ventourisferries.com/en/ Ferries] * [[Ancona]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} * [[Trieste]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries] ===By bus=== If arriving to Durres by bus, make sure that you get off ''before'' the bus turns onto the highway going south towards Golem. The highway is very difficult to turn around on, and if you end up significantly south of Durres proper, it will be very difficult to find a taxi that can take you back into Durres, and it'll cost a fortune. Remember, ride share apps do not work in Albania as of 2025. * {{go | name=Bus Terminal | alt=Stacioni I Autobuzave | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31783 | long=19.45375 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content=Buses and furgons from Tirana usually arrive at this bus terminal with the "Durrës" logo on the outside near the old railway station. There are also some international connections and a direct airport bus. }} * {{go | name=Plepat Bus Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.29226 | long=19.50961 | directions=At the southern end of the promenade/beach. Take a local bus from the City Bus Terminal to get here. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=This is the bus station where buses from Tirana and most southern destinations, like [[Berat]] (450 lek), will stop to drop off passengers. Most buses will not head into the centre of Durrës. This is the only place with regular connections heading south. }} From specific destinations: * [[Tirana]] – The buses depart from the Northern Bus Station in Tirana near the Casa Italia shopping center. The ride takes around 45 min and costs 180 lek (Dec 2024). The bus operates daily every 30 min from 06:30 to 19:30. * [[Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza]] – The buses all depart south of the airport terminal. It should go every 1–2 hr. Price (Dec 2024): 600 lek. * [[Skopje]] (North Macedonia) – Buses run through Durrës on their way to Tirana. A typical Skopje-Tirana ticket costs around €25 return. * [[Kumanovo]] (North Macedonia) – There is a daily direct bus line to Durrës. The cost of tickets is around €20. * [[Pristina]] (Kosovo) – During the summer season there are several buses a day. You should check the timetables at the Pristina bus station, but in 2013 the timetable was as follows; 04:00, 05:00, 06:00 and 06:30 and then at 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00 and 23:00. There are at least a couple of buses going back at 16:00 and 17:00. Return ticket costs about €20. The trip takes around 4–5½ hr, depending on whether it goes via Prizren. Buses ran by Artiti Tours depart and arrive from the {{marker|type=go|name=Rrota e Kuqe stop|lat=41.3104760|long=19.4850781}} by a roundabout near the middle of Rruga Pavaresia street running parallel, and very close, to the beach. Tickets can be booked online at [https://travel.gjirafa.com Gjirafa] or [https://www.autobus.al/en/ Autobus.al]. The bus stop can be reached on foot in about ½ hr from the city centre. Alternatively, take a taxi (about €8) or use a bus running along Rruga Pavaresia from the city centre. ===By car=== There is a road between here and [[Tirana]], the SH2, which takes just over half an hour for the journey. You could [[Tirana#By plane|fly into]] Tirana, then drive or get a taxi to Durrës, with the airport connecting to the SH2 by the SH60. Also from Vorë and Shijak from main roads and highways. ===By commuter train=== Construction is underway for 2027, from Triana to Durres, and the Airport. ==Get around== {{mapframe|41.313| 19.442|zoom=15|layer=W}} === On foot === The city centre where the archaeological sites are located can be toured on foot. Durrës is a relatively compact city, so many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center and along the waterfront. If you're open to a longer walk, it's easy to get all the way to South Durres from the city core, and even further south than that, until you reach a part of the beach that's owned by the Albanian military and impassable. === By bus === Durrës has a public bus system that connects various parts of the city. Public buses are orange. You can purchase tickets from kiosks or directly from the bus driver or a controller who goes around the bus to sell & check tickets. Bus schedules may vary, so it is a good idea to check in advance. ==== Getting to the beach area of the city ==== Once you arrive at the Durrës bus station, there is a small Bus traffic sign with many people. From there you can take a bus with the sign Durazzo (or Durrës) Plepa. The bus stops at several designated stops along the Rruga Paveresia boulevard, i.e. along the beach (40 lek as of 2024). === By taxi === Many taxis are available in Durrës, and they are a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling to destinations not easily accessible by bus. You can find them parked everywhere on the streets with a taxi symbol on the top of their car. Make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver or demand to go with meter before starting your journey or you will definitely be overcharged. ==See== Durrës has layers of Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, royal Albanian, communist-era and modern history. The main sights are concentrated around the old city centre, with several important coastal and religious sites further afield. ===Religious sites=== ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Shen Lucia Catholic Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Luçia, Saint Lucia Catholic Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Don Nikoll Kacorri | lat= | long= | directions=In the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1907, this is one of the main Catholic churches in Durrës. It has simple Western-style architecture combined with local Albanian elements and remains an important place for Catholic worship, community gatherings, Christmas, Easter and other religious celebrations. }} * {{see | name=Shen Gjergji Orthodox Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Gjergjit, Saint George Orthodox Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Vath Turja | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 19th century and closely connected to the Orthodox Christian community of Durrës. The building contains Byzantine architectural features, including traditional domes and icons. Inside, visitors can see religious paintings and decorative iconography, making it useful both for worshippers and for travellers interested in the city’s religious history. }} * {{see | name=Saint Asti and Saint Paul Orthodox Church | alt=Katedralja Ortodokse e Shën Palit dhe Shën Asti | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4488 | directions=Near the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:30 - 20:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=The main Orthodox cathedral of Durrës. Built in 2001 after the revival of religious life in Albania following communism, it is considered one of the largest modern Orthodox churches in the country. It has a large central dome, Byzantine-style frescoes and is named after Saint Paul and Saint Asti, the first Christian martyr associated with Durrës. It is used for major religious ceremonies and official Orthodox Church events. }} ====Mosques==== * {{see | name=Fatih Mosque | alt=Xhamia Fatih | url= | email= | address=Rruga Xhamia, close to the historical centre and the Roman Amphitheatre | lat=41.311102 | long=19.445970 | directions=Near the Roman Amphitheatre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally; avoid prayer times if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Fatih Mosque, Durrës | image=Xhamia e Fatihut.jpg | wikidata=Q1398072 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1503 during the Ottoman period and named after Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, known as Fatih. It is one of the oldest mosques in Albania. The mosque has suffered damage from earthquakes and wars but has been restored several times, and its minaret and design represent classical Ottoman religious architecture. }} * {{see | name=Great Mosque of Durrës | alt=Xhamia e Madhe e Durrësit, New Mosque, Grand Mosque | url= | email= | address=Rruga Aleksander Goga, Durrës | lat=41.313297 | long=19.445461 | directions=City centre, near Sheshi Liria | phone= | tollfree= | hours=06:00-09:30; visitors should avoid the busy Friday midday prayer if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Great Mosque of Durrës | image=Great Mosque in Durrës.JPG | wikidata=Q18888007 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Known locally as the Great Mosque. Built in 1937, it is sometimes called the New Mosque because it was constructed later than the older Ottoman mosques. It is one of the main Islamic religious centres in the city, with a large prayer hall and modern Islamic architecture. During Islamic holidays such as Eid, it becomes an important gathering place for worshippers. }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Archaeological Museum | alt=Muzeu Arkeologjik | url=[https://m.facebook.com/muzeuarkeologjikDurrës/](https://m.facebook.com/muzeuarkeologjikDurrës/) | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia 32 | lat=41.311389 | long=19.440278 | directions=Near the seafront promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Temporarily closed until sometime in 2026 | price= | wikipedia=Durrës Archaeological Museum | wikidata=Q5316767 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The main archaeological museum of Durrës, normally focused on finds from ancient Dyrrhachium and the surrounding region. It is temporarily closed until sometime in 2026, so check locally before planning a visit. }} * {{see | image= | name=Popular Culture Museum | alt=Muzeu i Kulturës Popullore | url= | email= | address=Kavaje village, Rruga Skuraj | lat=41.180 | long=19.5549 | directions=S 18 km | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small local museum connected with traditional culture and daily life in the Durrës region. It may be useful for visitors interested in rural customs, folk objects and local heritage, but opening times should be checked locally. }} * {{see | name=World War II Relics Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3189417553968 | long=19.444248967878107 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small collection or hall connected with World War II memory in Durrës. Verify access and opening times locally, as information may be limited. }} * {{see | image= | name=Koloseo Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Gallery showcasing work by local painters and artists. Useful for visitors who want to see contemporary visual art in Durrës beyond the archaeological and historic sights. }} ===Ancient and medieval monuments=== [[File:Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg|thumb|Durrës, Roman Amphitheater]] * {{see | name=Durrës Amphitheatre | alt=Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kalase | lat=41.312222 | long=19.444867 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | wikipedia=Durrës Amphitheatre | image=Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg | wikidata=Q779868 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The largest Roman amphitheatre in the Balkans and the best-known ancient monument in Durrës. It includes restored iconography, underground passages below the seating area and a central grassy arena. It is one of the most important places for understanding the Roman layer of ancient Dyrrhachium. }} * {{see | name=Durrës Ancient City Wall | alt=Kalaja e Durrësit, Byzantine and Venetian walls | url= | email= | address=Rruga Sotir Noka | lat=41.3126 | long=19.4441 | directions=Next to the Amphitheater | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Surviving sections of the ancient and medieval walls of Durrës, close to the amphitheatre and old city centre. Around the walls are other historic features, including the Medieval Hammam and the Tophane Well. }} * {{see | name=Venetian Tower | alt=Rotonda, Kalaja | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3097 | long=19.4469 | directions=Near the old city walls and central promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | image=Durrës Albania 1.jpg | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=Circular defensive tower in the city centre, built in the 16th century and associated with the Venetian fortifications of Durrës. Visitors can climb steep stairs to the top and see a multimedia presentation projected inside the dome. }} * {{see | image= | name=Shen Mehilli Hill | alt=Kodra e Shen Mehillit, Saint Michael Hill, Basilica of Saint Michael | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës, near Arapaj | phone= | hours=Open archaeological area; check access locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Hill and archaeological area associated with the early Christian Basilica of Saint Michael, a 5th- or 6th-century site with mosaic remains. The area is also linked with the 1081 battle between Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos and Norman leader Robert Guiscard. }} * {{see | name=Byzantine Forum | alt=Macellum | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31503961305186 | long=19.44581838485815 | directions=Near the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public archaeological area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 5th century AD, the Byzantine Forum, also known as the Macellum, preserves remains of the ancient public space of the city. Public baths are around and beneath the Alexander Moissi Palace of Culture area. }} ===Historic residences and villas=== [[File:Villa e Zogut.jpg|thumb|King Zog's Villa]] * {{see | name=King Zog's Villa | alt=Vila e Zogut, Royal Villa of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kont Urani | lat=41.314724 | long=19.438698 | directions=On top of a hill overlooking the city | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually closed or irregular access; check locally before visiting | price= | wikipedia=Royal Villa of Durrës | image=Palace of king Zog durres.jpg | wikidata=Q13530086 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Former royal summer residence of King Zog, completed in 1937. It stands on a hill above Durrës and is known for its views over the bay, Italian Rationalist architecture and role in Albania's royal and 20th-century political history. The building has been damaged and interior access may be restricted, but the walk up is worthwhile for the façade and panorama. }} * {{see | image= | name=Aleksandër Moisiu House-Museum | alt=Shtepia Muze Aleksandër Moisiu, Alexander Moissi Museum House | url=https://akt.gov.al/en/atraksionet/shtepia-muze-aleksander-moisiu/ | email= | address=Rruga Kolonel Tomson, Durrës | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4460 | directions=In the historic centre, near the amphitheatre and Byzantine walls | phone=+355 52 223 150 | hours=Usually M-F 08:00-15:00; check before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Rare surviving 19th-century urban house in Durrës, associated with actor Aleksandër Moisiu. It has functioned as a house-museum and ethnographic museum, with displays on local daily life, folk clothing, household objects and Moisiu's life and career. }} * {{see | name=Old Doors Trail | alt=Path of Doors, Shtegu i Dyerve të Vjetra | url=https://www.muzehlab.org.al/old-doors-trail-in-durres/ | email=muzehlab@gmail.com | address=Old city centre, Durrës | lat=41.3123 | long=19.4462 | directions=Self-guided walking route through old Durrës | phone=+355 67 613 3262 | tollfree= | hours=Self-guided; contact MuZEH Lab for guided visits | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Heritage walking route through old Durrës focused on historic doors, family houses, courtyards and urban memory. Stops include old family houses and historic residences such as Villa Tedeschini, as well as streets around the older parts of the city. }} ===Civic buildings and other landmarks=== * {{see | name=Municipality | alt=Bashkia | url=http://www.Durrës.gov.al | email= | address=Sheshi Liria, 15 | lat=41.3127 | long=19.4463 | directions=On the main central square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Exterior view only unless visiting municipal offices | price=Free | image=Rathaus von Durres.jpg | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Municipal building on Sheshi Liria, one of the main civic spaces of central Durrës. It is useful as a landmark when navigating between the mosque, amphitheatre, Venetian Tower and old city streets. }} * {{see | image= | name=Kavaja Rock | alt=Shkembi i Kavajes | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.2779 | long=19.5192 | directions=SE 5 km, near Golem | phone= | hours=Open public landmark | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic landmark in Golem where caravans once passed along the ancient Via Egnatia. It is traditionally linked with a battle between Pompey and Julius Caesar and is also a useful coastal landmark south of Durrës. }} ===Old villages and rural heritage=== * {{see | name=Arapaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area; archaeological access may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village southeast of Durrës known for the nearby Basilica of Saint Michael and early Christian mosaic remains. It is useful for visitors interested in the rural edge of ancient Durrës and archaeological sites outside the city centre. }} * {{see | name=Shetaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shetaj, Durrës County | lat=41.567 | long=19.496 | directions=North of Durrës, on the way toward Cape of Rodon | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village in the northern coastal hinterland of Durrës County, useful as a base or stop when visiting Cape of Rodon, Rodoni Castle and nearby rural landscapes. It is better for visitors with a car. }} ===Natural and coastal landmarks=== * {{see | name=Lalzit Bay Area | alt=Gjiri i Lalëzit, Lalëz Bay | url=https://m.facebook.com/GjiriILazit/ | email= | address= | lat=41.4525 | long=19.4876 | directions=N 27 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open coastal area | price=Free; beach facilities may charge in season | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Long sandy bay north of Durrës, known for quieter beach areas, pine-backed coastline and access to Ishem Castle and Rrushkull Nature Reserve. It is best reached by car and is popular for beach stays outside central Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Rrushkull Nature Reserve | alt=Rezervati Rrushkull | url= | email= | address=Rrushkull, Durrës County | lat=41.435 | long=19.515 | directions=North of Durrës, near Lalzit Bay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open natural area; access conditions may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Coastal wetland and nature reserve near Lalzit Bay. It is mainly useful for visitors interested in quiet landscapes, birdlife, lagoons, dunes and natural areas outside the city. }} ===Further afield=== [[File:View of Lezhë.jpg|thumb|Lezhe]] * {{see | name=Rodoni Castle | alt=Kalaja e Rodonit | url= | email= | address=Cape of Rodon | lat=41.585982 | long=19.447504 | directions=Cape of Rodon, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check road and access conditions | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Ruined coastal castle at Cape of Rodon, traditionally associated with Skanderbeg. The site combines history, sea views, coastal walking and nearby religious heritage, and is best reached by car from Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Scanderbeg Castle | alt=Sebastia's Castle, Kalaja e Skënderbeut | url= | email= | address=Rruga e Sebastes, Laç village | lat=41.628339 | long=19.726932 | directions=N 33 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic castle site near Laç village. It is outside Durrës city and works best as a further-afield excursion for travellers exploring northern coastal and inland heritage sites. }} * {{see | name=Shen Ndout Church | alt=Kisha e Shna Ndout, Church of Saint Anthony | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kisha e Shna Ndout, Laç | lat=41.62898 | long=19.733149 | directions=Near Laç, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Active religious site; check pilgrimage and service times | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Important Catholic pilgrimage church near Laç. It is outside the city but can be combined with other northern excursions from Durrës, especially for visitors interested in religious sites and Albanian pilgrimage traditions. }} == Learn == * The '''Museum of Martyrs and Hall of War Relics''' on Rruga Aleksander Goga has a sizable public library on the second floor, with books in many European languages. The focus is definitely more on kids books than not, but it's still a good resource for anyone who needs to do some research or just stay entertained. As of 2025, the hours were 08:00-16:00. ==Do== * {{do | name=Culture Palace | alt= | url= | email=| address=Bulevardi Dyrrah | lat=41.3144 | long=19.4465| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Events }} * {{do | name=Evening walk | address= | lat= | long= | directions= promenade | content=Go for an evening walk along the sea front promenade or along the beach. }} * {{do | name=Villa Hill | alt=Kodra e Viles | url= | email=| address=Rruga Currila | lat=41.318185 | long=19.433438| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Panoramic view of Durrës seaside at Currilat from top of a newly reclaimed hill. }} * {{do | name=Seaside Large Steps | alt=Shkallet tek Brryli | url= | email=| address=Intersection between Rruga Currila and Rruga Taulantia| lat=41.310852 | long=19.435305| directions=Brryli area| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Sit and admire the sea from up close on these large steps descending into the water}} [[File:Stadiumi Niko Dovana.jpg|thumb|right|Stadium Niko Dovana]] * '''Football:''' [https://www.kfteuta.com/ KF Teuta]{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} play soccer in Kategoria Superiore, the country's top tier. Their home ground is Niko Dovana Stadium, capacity 12,000, one km north of the ferry port. ===Beaches=== [[File:Durres in summer.JPG|thumb|City beach]] * {{do | name=Lalzit Bay Beach | alt=Gjiri i Lalzit | url= | email= | address=near Hamallaj village | lat=41.3968 | long=19.4214 | directions=25 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular weekend retreat and exclusive wealthy beach area. A small resort can be found here. }} * {{do | name=Portez Beach | alt=Plazhi Portez | url= | email= | address=Bishti Palles | lat=41.4001 | long=19.404 | directions=13 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Durres in summer.JPG | content=Nice beach, bar, and wooden bungalows north of Currilat }} * {{do | name=Golem beach | alt=Plazhi Golemit/Mali i Robit | url= | email= | address=Golem, Mali Robit, Kavaja Rock (Shkembi i Kavajes) | lat=41.2509 | long=19.5194 | directions=follow SH4 and enter secondary road at Plepat roundabout (SH56, SH85) or continue along SH4 and exit at Golem/Mali Robit exit | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-05 | content=This is the main seaside resort south of Durrës with long sandy beaches popular among Albanians and foreigners alike. Tirana inhabitants have their beach houses and villas in the area for weekend and summer retreats. }} ===Diving=== * {{do | name=Sea Resort of Golem|alt= |url=https://diammaresort.al/en/ |email=| address=Diamma Resort, Rruga Kompleksit|lat=41.266001| long=19.519762| directions=S 7 km| phone=+355 69 666 1555 |hours= | price=| content=Take a dip in the Adriatic Sea water in the biggest sea side resort of Golem. }} === Events === * {{listing | name=Durrës International Biennale of Contemporary Art | alt=DIBoCA | url=https://durresbiennale.org/en/home | email=durresbiennale@gmail.com | address=Lagja 12, Rruga Abaz Çelkupa, Durrës | lat=41.318463 | long=19.452563 | directions=Near the city centre | phone=+355 69 472 7490 | tollfree= | hours=Biennial; check the official website for current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Biennial contemporary art exhibition supported by the Municipality of Durrës. It brings Albanian and international artists to the city through exhibitions, workshops, talks, and contemporary visual art projects. }} * {{listing | name=International Music Festival of Chamber Music | alt=Chamber Fest Durrës | url=https://www.chamberfestdurres.com/ | email= | address=Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral, Durrës | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=In the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the current programme | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Annual chamber music festival held in Durrës since 2006. It brings Albanian and international instrumentalists together for classical concerts, often in historic venues such as Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Durrës | alt=International Music Festival Festival Days in Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/ | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Performances are usually held in public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in early July; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music, folklore, and dance festival with parades, stage performances, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups from different countries. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Fest | alt=International Festival Durrës Fest | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/festivals/1108-5410-international-festival-durres-fest-summer | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central public spaces and performance venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folk, music, and dance festival focused on cultural exchange. Groups from different countries perform traditional and modern dances, choral music, orchestral music, and majorette programmes. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Albania | alt=International Folklore Festival Durrës | url=https://mioff.org/booking/xxix-festival-days-in-albania/ | email=office@mioff.org | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central performance areas and nearby hotels | phone=+389 78 700 619 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late June; check current dates before travelling | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folklore festival for folk groups, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups. The programme usually includes parades, performances, and optional sightseeing around Durrës. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Sunset | alt=International Music and Folk-Dance Festival Durrës Sunset | url=https://festival-association.eu/fest/688 | email=info@festival-association.eu | address=Durrës beach area | lat=41.289722 | long=19.513333 | directions=Usually based around beach hotels and public performance spaces | phone=+389 71 376 151 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music and folk-dance festival for children's, youth, and adult ensembles. The programme usually includes a city parade, public performances, a gala evening, and sightseeing. }} * {{listing | name=Dances in Durrës | alt=International Festival Dancing in Durrës | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/news/2025-11-10-international-festival-dances-in-durres-brings-cultures-together-from-around-the-world-in | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International dance and folklore festival with parades, evening performances, cultural walks, and music groups from different countries. It is aimed at dance ensembles, choirs, folklore groups, and modern dance groups. }} * {{listing | name=Summer Stars of Durrës | alt=International Competition and Festival of Arts Summer Stars of Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/en/festivals/1153-4768-international-competition-and-festival-of-arts-summer-stars-of-durres | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Check the organiser's current venue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in August 2024 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International arts competition and festival for soloists, ensembles, and young performers. It includes dance, choral, orchestral, modern, pop, jazz, hip-hop, and majorette categories. Confirm current editions before planning a visit. }} * {{listing | name=Roots of Durrës | alt=Roots of Durrës: Folk Traditions Festival | url=https://www.wofafestivals.com/news/roots-of-durres-folk-traditions-festival-2025/ | email=info@wofafestivals.com | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone=+389 75 491 218 | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in June 2025 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Folk traditions festival that has brought international folklore ensembles to perform in Durrës, including at the ancient amphitheatre. Confirm whether a current edition is scheduled before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Festa e Ullirit | alt=Olive Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually held around central cultural venues | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late October; check local announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Local festival celebrating the olive harvest and Durrës' connection with olive cultivation. It usually includes music, performances, local traditions, and honours for notable citizens. }} * {{listing | name=Art Explora Festival | alt= | url=https://www.artexplora.org/en/festival/city/durres | email= | address=Port of Durrës, Durrës | lat=41.308330 | long=19.454170 | directions=At the port quay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Occasional travelling festival; held in Durrës in April 2025 | price=Free admission or reservation-based depending on activity | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Travelling Mediterranean cultural festival with a museum boat, exhibitions, immersive experiences, talks, performances, workshops, concerts, and film screenings. It visited Durrës in 2025, but future stops should be confirmed from the official programme. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës International Film Summerfest | alt=Durrës International Film Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Historical event; check local cultural announcements for any revival | price= | wikidata=Q18351819 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International film festival founded in 2008 and historically held in Durrës, including at the amphitheatre and other cultural venues. Recent regular editions could not be confirmed, so do not rely on old official websites. }} * {{listing | name=Vox Baroque | alt=International Baroque Music Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Venues may vary; past performances have used heritage sites | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; check current announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Early music festival focused on Baroque repertoire and historical instruments. It has included Durrës among its Albanian heritage destinations, but current local dates should be verified before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Balkans Joint Conference and Exhibition | alt= | url=https://balkansjointconference.org/ | email= | address=Grand Blue Fafa Resort, Durrës | lat=41.269722 | long=19.519444 | directions=South of central Durrës, near the beach resort area | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually announced by edition; check the official conference website | price=Registration required | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Regional professional conference and technical exhibition for the water supply and wastewater sector. It brings together utilities, experts, companies, and public institutions from the Balkans. }} ==Buy== * Kokomani Wine— Albanian wine produced by Kokomani Winery, known for red and white wines made from local and international grape varieties. Bottles of wine and homemade raki are commonly sold in wine shops, supermarkets and souvenir stores in Durrës, and are popular gifts for visitors. * Souvenirs— Tourist souvenirs sold throughout Durrës include magnets, postcards, Albanian flag items, handmade jewelry, miniature amphora decorations and locally crafted gifts inspired by the city’s Roman and coastal heritage. * Sea Souvenirs— Shops near the beach sell seashell decorations, handmade marine crafts, beach-themed ornaments and Adriatic-inspired gifts commonly bought by summer tourists. * Household goods — Local markets and small stores offer practical household products, kitchenware, textiles and handmade wooden items used in traditional Albanian homes. * Traditional Albanian products— Traditional Albanian products available in Durrës include olive oil, mountain tea, local honey, dried herbs, filigree crafts, handmade carpets and bottles of raki produced in different regions of Albania. Many are sold in souvenir shops and artisan markets around the city. ==Eat== ===Budget=== ====In the city centre==== * {{eat | name=SAF - Gatime tradicionale | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31929 | long=19.45303 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-15:00 | price=200-500 lek | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Very traditional lunch menu. Every day they will have cooked something new and fresh. Prices are more than decent and food is delicious. }} * {{eat | name=Sema | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/SEMARestaurantDurrës/ | email= | address= | lat=41.313309 | long=19.446844 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa. Make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at round about take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia; bear right onto street H.Troplini. Turn right to stay on street H.Troplini; keep straight onto road; arrive on the right; there is Sema restaurant. | phone=+355 672033224 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:59 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rehat Kebab | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3144571 | long= 19.4471379 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Around the Ventus Harbour pier==== * {{eat | name=Mema House | alt= | url= | email=memahouse@hotmail.com | address=Taulantia Street | lat=41.310814 | long=19.441229 | directions=head east on Adria Street toward J.Ballhysa Street; make a U-turn to stay on Adria Street; at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Egnatia Promenade; at the next roundabout, take the 1st exit and bear right onto Taulantia Promenade | phone=+355 697541068 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Piceri Belvedere | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia | lat=41.3108788 | long=19.4374212 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Near the city centre==== * {{eat | name=Piceri 2 Engjejt | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Hysen Myshketa | lat=41.3221725 | long=19.4474410 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Pizza}} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Bar Restorant Kajser | alt= | url= | email=| address= | lat= | long= | directions=near King Zog's Villa| phone=| hours= | price= Delicious ice cream combinations including baked ice cream (400 lek), spaghetti, fish and baked lamb| content=it offers a panoramic view of Durrës from above. }} * {{eat | name=Splendid Restorant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Egnatia | lat=41.309062 | long=19.445899 | directions=from street Adria, toward street Adria; at roundabout 1st exit onto promenade Egnatia; arrive at promenade Egnatia on the left, you can find Splendid restaurant | phone=+355 692824222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Especially known locally for fish. Everything is fresh, tasty and served in the most professional way. Prices are slightly more than average for Albania, but for the whole experience of eating you get there it's worth every cent. }} * {{eat | name=Neps | alt= | url=https://www.instagram.com/neps.Durrës/ | email= | address= | lat= 41.3140238 | long=19.4338833 | directions=from Durrës railway station, take street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria; at the roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia. At roundabout, take the 1st exit; bear right onto promenade Taulantia; the road name changes to street of Currila and there you can find Neps restaurant | phone=+355 694609111 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Restaurant in industrial style near the sea. }} * {{eat | name=Pastiçeri Pelikani 1 | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Pavaresia | lat= | long= | directions=near Hotel Adriatic | phone=+355 683095270 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=You can eat different sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Rooftop XV | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/fly.restaurant.Durrës/ | email=fly.Durrës@gmail.com | address=Street Erazmi | lat=41.310318 | long=19.448046 | directions= | phone=+355 684058103 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This restaurant has a breathtaking view from the 15th/top floor. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Tirona | alt= | url= | email= | address=SH4, Rruga Pavaresia, Durrës 2001 | lat=41.315426 | long=19.470471 | directions= | phone=+355 682010358 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-20 | content=A local's favourite, Restaurant Tirona in Durrës, it has a great selection of fresh sea-food at very affordable prices. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Restorant Piazza |alt=Restorant Piazza|url=http://www.restorantpiazza.com| email= |address=Rruga Taulantia 1| lat=41.30889 |long=19.4464 |directions=near the port|phone=+355 52 237601 |hours=08:00-23:00| price=| lastedit=2022-05-01 |content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Venetian Tower (Rotonda) bar|alt= |url= |email=| address=| lat= |long= | directions=on top of the Venetian Tower| phone=|hours= |price=|content=It offers a nice view of Durrës and its coastline. }} * {{drink | name=788 cocktail bar Durrës | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/788.CocktailBar | email=kokaemilian@hotmail.com | address= | lat=41.311132 | long=19.446449 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay street Adria at aroundabout, take 2nd onto promenade Egnatia; bear right, and then be right onto street H.Troplini; turn left onto street Dok Margariti; turn right onto street De Rada and then immediately turn right onto street Epidamni; turn left onto street Mosque | phone=+355 692121788 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=Nice music, great cocktails and that seaside summer breeze. During winter instead, live music, different events and local activities. ''(Tower is under construction as of 2022-05-08.)'' }} * {{drink | name=Bonsai Caffe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Bonsai-Caff%C3%A9/100010089723822 | email=ninikoka7@gmail.com | address= | lat= 41.3186186 | long=19.4462547 | directions=from Durrës railway station, go right street Adria, continuing with Martyrs street; welded with Kerol Bar | phone=+355 674999111 | tollfree= |fax=| hours=07:00-23:00 | price= |wikidata=| lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=A nice selection of drinks and a very welcoming environment. }} * {{drink | name=Portiku Wine Bar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pg/portikuwinebar/about/?entry_point=page_nav_about_item&tab=page_info | email= | address= | lat=41.309926 | long=19.447359 | directions=from railway station, depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia there at roundabout take 1st exit. Turn right at street Epidamni | phone=+355 686080666 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 09:00-23:30, Th 09:00-23:00, F 09:00-23:45, Sa Su 09:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Arragosta Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.aragosta.al/sq/ | email=reservation@arragosta.al | address=Neighborhood 1, street Taulantia, Currila | lat=41.318272 | long=19.45344 | directions= | phone=+355 52 226 477 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content=4-star beachfront hotel in the Currila area offering modern rooms, a private beach area and an on-site seafood restaurant. Popular for sea views and its location near the promenade and historic center. Traditional Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine available. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Adriatik | alt= | url=http://www.adriatikhotel.com/ | email=info@adriatikhotel.com | address=Lagjia 13, Rruga Pavaresia, Plazh Durrës | lat=41.3053 | long=19.4917 | directions=near the beach | phone=+355 52 260850 | tollfree= | fax=+355 52 260855 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from €100 (April 2026) |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Historic five-star seaside hotel located in the Plazh area of Durrës. Features a private beach, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, spa facilities, conference areas and several restaurants and bars. Popular with business travelers and summer tourists. }} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Arvi|alt=|url=http://hotelarvi.com|email=|address=Rruga Taulantia 16| lat=41.3105| long=19.4433|directions=Center|phone=+355 52 230403|price=Single from €60 (2014.jun)|checkin=12:00-22:00|checkout=07:00-11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Central waterfront hotel near the city promenade and archaeological sites. Offers sea-view rooms, restaurant facilities and easy access to cafés and nightlife in the center of Durrës. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Lido Durrës | alt= | url=https://katestravelexperience.eu/lido-albania | email= | address=Lagja.2; Rruga Aleksander Goga | lat=41.31511 | long=19.44525 | directions= | phone=+355 52 227941 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from around €50 |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Mid-range city hotel located near the center and port area. Offers comfortable rooms, breakfast service and convenient access to shops, restaurants and public transport. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Nais|url=https://hotelnais.com/ |email= |address=Lagia 1, Rruga Naim Frasheri nr.46|lat=41.3107 |long=19.4466| directions=from the port: 100 meters toward the town center; left on Naim Frasheri street, behind the tower |phone=| hours= | price=Double rooms from around €40| checkin= | checkout=11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Three-star hotel located close to the port and town center, within walking distance of the main promenade. Known for quiet rooms and included breakfast despite its central location.}} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Pepeto|url=http://hotelpepeto.webs.com/|email=|address=Mbreti MONUM Nr.3, Rruga Ramazan Jella|lat=41.3136|long=19.4473|directions=|phone=+355 52 224190|price= |checkin=|checkout=|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Small boutique-style hotel in the historic center near the Venetian Tower and archaeological attractions. Offers modern rooms and easy access to restaurants and cafés around the old town. }} * {{sleep | name=Premium Hotel Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Golem Long Beach 2504 | lat=41.259048 | long=19.447398 | directions= | phone=+355 676041008 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-05 | content=Modern beachfront hotel in the Golem area south of Durrës. Features restaurants, bars and evening entertainment including live DJs during the summer season. Popular with beach holiday visitors. }} * {{sleep | name=Crowne Plazza Durres | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/gb/en/durres/tiaab/hoteldetail?cm_mmc=YextLocal-_-CP-_-AL-_-TIAAB | email= | address= | lat=41.3087 | long=19.4458 | directions=Central, promenade | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-01 | content=5 Star experience on the waterfront, promenade. Newly opened in 2026. Luxury waterfront hotel on the central promenade offering modern rooms, sea views, upscale dining and five-star facilities. Located close to beaches, nightlife and the city center. }} == Connect == 5G available now (2026). As of Sep 2021, Vodafone has the best coverage, with 4G in Durrës, the other main towns, and highways between. One and ALB have 4G in Durrës but less coverage elsewhere. 5G has not been rolled out in Albania. == Go next == * [[Tirana]] the capital is ringed by trees and mountains. Mount Dajt has great views of the city. * [[Kruje]] in the hills above Tirana has museums and an old castle. * [[Lezhe]] has Skanderbeg's Tomb, panoramic Lezhe Castle and several renovated churches * [[Fier]] is a lively seaside city, near the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia. * Fushë-Krujë its near with Durrës {{geo|41.323|19.441}} {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Coastal Albania}} {{related|Ferries_in_the_Mediterranean}} fczc2g5k6xvt7a08nl61bv0eubju20w 5288841 5288840 2026-06-06T13:14:33Z ~2026-25168-20 2396992 /* Museums and galleries */ 5288841 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Durrës banner.jpg|caption=Roman circus panorama}} '''Durrës''' is [[Albania|Albania's]] chief port. Located on the shores of the Adriatic, Durrës is a lively town, organized around beach culture. ==Understand== In parts Durrës is attractive and well maintained. In others it is somewhat ramshackle, with both active and what appears to be abandoned development co-existing next to each other. To some degree, this is a feature of Durres geology. The area is in a tectonically active zone, with extremely unstable geology. The next earthquake will cause the ground to undergo liquefaction again, and much of the new development will have to be pruned back once more, before regrowing. Still, the city is alive. There are abundant shops, retail stalls and street traders. They appear to trade from early morning until late and provide an attractive "always on" vibe to the city. It has ferries to [[Bari]] and Ancona in ([[Italy]]) and bus connections to other Albanian and international destinations, often via Tirana. Alternative spellings of the city's name are ''Durazzo'' (Italian), ''Drač'' (Драч, Serbo-Croatian) or ''Dyrrhachion'' (Δυρράχιον, Greek). ==Get in== ===By boat=== [[File:Durrës Albania.jpg|thumb|Durrës panoramic view]] * {{go | name=Ferry Terminal | alt=Terminali i Trageteve | url=https://www.Durrësport.al/ | email= | address= | lat=41.31587 | long=19.45447 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q100343249 | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content= }} From specific destinations: * [[Bari]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [https://www.gnv.it/en , GNV Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Ventouris [https://ventourisferries.com/en/ Ferries] * [[Ancona]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} * [[Trieste]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries] ===By bus=== If arriving to Durres by bus, make sure that you get off ''before'' the bus turns onto the highway going south towards Golem. The highway is very difficult to turn around on, and if you end up significantly south of Durres proper, it will be very difficult to find a taxi that can take you back into Durres, and it'll cost a fortune. Remember, ride share apps do not work in Albania as of 2025. * {{go | name=Bus Terminal | alt=Stacioni I Autobuzave | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31783 | long=19.45375 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content=Buses and furgons from Tirana usually arrive at this bus terminal with the "Durrës" logo on the outside near the old railway station. There are also some international connections and a direct airport bus. }} * {{go | name=Plepat Bus Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.29226 | long=19.50961 | directions=At the southern end of the promenade/beach. Take a local bus from the City Bus Terminal to get here. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=This is the bus station where buses from Tirana and most southern destinations, like [[Berat]] (450 lek), will stop to drop off passengers. Most buses will not head into the centre of Durrës. This is the only place with regular connections heading south. }} From specific destinations: * [[Tirana]] – The buses depart from the Northern Bus Station in Tirana near the Casa Italia shopping center. The ride takes around 45 min and costs 180 lek (Dec 2024). The bus operates daily every 30 min from 06:30 to 19:30. * [[Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza]] – The buses all depart south of the airport terminal. It should go every 1–2 hr. Price (Dec 2024): 600 lek. * [[Skopje]] (North Macedonia) – Buses run through Durrës on their way to Tirana. A typical Skopje-Tirana ticket costs around €25 return. * [[Kumanovo]] (North Macedonia) – There is a daily direct bus line to Durrës. The cost of tickets is around €20. * [[Pristina]] (Kosovo) – During the summer season there are several buses a day. You should check the timetables at the Pristina bus station, but in 2013 the timetable was as follows; 04:00, 05:00, 06:00 and 06:30 and then at 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00 and 23:00. There are at least a couple of buses going back at 16:00 and 17:00. Return ticket costs about €20. The trip takes around 4–5½ hr, depending on whether it goes via Prizren. Buses ran by Artiti Tours depart and arrive from the {{marker|type=go|name=Rrota e Kuqe stop|lat=41.3104760|long=19.4850781}} by a roundabout near the middle of Rruga Pavaresia street running parallel, and very close, to the beach. Tickets can be booked online at [https://travel.gjirafa.com Gjirafa] or [https://www.autobus.al/en/ Autobus.al]. The bus stop can be reached on foot in about ½ hr from the city centre. Alternatively, take a taxi (about €8) or use a bus running along Rruga Pavaresia from the city centre. ===By car=== There is a road between here and [[Tirana]], the SH2, which takes just over half an hour for the journey. You could [[Tirana#By plane|fly into]] Tirana, then drive or get a taxi to Durrës, with the airport connecting to the SH2 by the SH60. Also from Vorë and Shijak from main roads and highways. ===By commuter train=== Construction is underway for 2027, from Triana to Durres, and the Airport. ==Get around== {{mapframe|41.313| 19.442|zoom=15|layer=W}} === On foot === The city centre where the archaeological sites are located can be toured on foot. Durrës is a relatively compact city, so many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center and along the waterfront. If you're open to a longer walk, it's easy to get all the way to South Durres from the city core, and even further south than that, until you reach a part of the beach that's owned by the Albanian military and impassable. === By bus === Durrës has a public bus system that connects various parts of the city. Public buses are orange. You can purchase tickets from kiosks or directly from the bus driver or a controller who goes around the bus to sell & check tickets. Bus schedules may vary, so it is a good idea to check in advance. ==== Getting to the beach area of the city ==== Once you arrive at the Durrës bus station, there is a small Bus traffic sign with many people. From there you can take a bus with the sign Durazzo (or Durrës) Plepa. The bus stops at several designated stops along the Rruga Paveresia boulevard, i.e. along the beach (40 lek as of 2024). === By taxi === Many taxis are available in Durrës, and they are a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling to destinations not easily accessible by bus. You can find them parked everywhere on the streets with a taxi symbol on the top of their car. Make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver or demand to go with meter before starting your journey or you will definitely be overcharged. ==See== Durrës has layers of Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, royal Albanian, communist-era and modern history. The main sights are concentrated around the old city centre, with several important coastal and religious sites further afield. ===Religious sites=== ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Shen Lucia Catholic Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Luçia, Saint Lucia Catholic Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Don Nikoll Kacorri | lat= | long= | directions=In the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1907, this is one of the main Catholic churches in Durrës. It has simple Western-style architecture combined with local Albanian elements and remains an important place for Catholic worship, community gatherings, Christmas, Easter and other religious celebrations. }} * {{see | name=Shen Gjergji Orthodox Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Gjergjit, Saint George Orthodox Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Vath Turja | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 19th century and closely connected to the Orthodox Christian community of Durrës. The building contains Byzantine architectural features, including traditional domes and icons. Inside, visitors can see religious paintings and decorative iconography, making it useful both for worshippers and for travellers interested in the city’s religious history. }} * {{see | name=Saint Asti and Saint Paul Orthodox Church | alt=Katedralja Ortodokse e Shën Palit dhe Shën Asti | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4488 | directions=Near the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:30 - 20:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=The main Orthodox cathedral of Durrës. Built in 2001 after the revival of religious life in Albania following communism, it is considered one of the largest modern Orthodox churches in the country. It has a large central dome, Byzantine-style frescoes and is named after Saint Paul and Saint Asti, the first Christian martyr associated with Durrës. It is used for major religious ceremonies and official Orthodox Church events. }} ====Mosques==== * {{see | name=Fatih Mosque | alt=Xhamia Fatih | url= | email= | address=Rruga Xhamia, close to the historical centre and the Roman Amphitheatre | lat=41.311102 | long=19.445970 | directions=Near the Roman Amphitheatre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally; avoid prayer times if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Fatih Mosque, Durrës | image=Xhamia e Fatihut.jpg | wikidata=Q1398072 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1503 during the Ottoman period and named after Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, known as Fatih. It is one of the oldest mosques in Albania. The mosque has suffered damage from earthquakes and wars but has been restored several times, and its minaret and design represent classical Ottoman religious architecture. }} * {{see | name=Great Mosque of Durrës | alt=Xhamia e Madhe e Durrësit, New Mosque, Grand Mosque | url= | email= | address=Rruga Aleksander Goga, Durrës | lat=41.313297 | long=19.445461 | directions=City centre, near Sheshi Liria | phone= | tollfree= | hours=06:00-09:30; visitors should avoid the busy Friday midday prayer if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Great Mosque of Durrës | image=Great Mosque in Durrës.JPG | wikidata=Q18888007 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Known locally as the Great Mosque. Built in 1937, it is sometimes called the New Mosque because it was constructed later than the older Ottoman mosques. It is one of the main Islamic religious centres in the city, with a large prayer hall and modern Islamic architecture. During Islamic holidays such as Eid, it becomes an important gathering place for worshippers. }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Archaeological Museum | alt=Muzeu Arkeologjik | url=https://m.facebook.com/muzeuarkeologjikDurrës/ | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia 32 | lat=41.311389 | long=19.440278 | directions=Near the seafront promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Temporarily closed until sometime in 2026 | price= | wikipedia=Durrës Archaeological Museum | wikidata=Q5316767 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The main archaeological museum of Durrës, normally focused on finds from ancient Dyrrhachium and the surrounding region. It is temporarily closed until sometime in 2026, so check locally before planning a visit. }} * {{see | image= | name=Popular Culture Museum | alt=Muzeu i Kulturës Popullore | url= | email= | address=Kavaje village, Rruga Skuraj | lat=41.180 | long=19.5549 | directions=S 18 km | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small local museum connected with traditional culture and daily life in the Durrës region. It may be useful for visitors interested in rural customs, folk objects and local heritage, but opening times should be checked locally. }} * {{see | name=World War II Relics Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3189417553968 | long=19.444248967878107 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small collection or hall connected with World War II memory in Durrës. Verify access and opening times locally, as information may be limited. }} * {{see | image= | name=Koloseo Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Gallery showcasing work by local painters and artists. Useful for visitors who want to see contemporary visual art in Durrës beyond the archaeological and historic sights. }} ===Ancient and medieval monuments=== [[File:Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg|thumb|Durrës, Roman Amphitheater]] * {{see | name=Durrës Amphitheatre | alt=Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kalase | lat=41.312222 | long=19.444867 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | wikipedia=Durrës Amphitheatre | image=Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg | wikidata=Q779868 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The largest Roman amphitheatre in the Balkans and the best-known ancient monument in Durrës. It includes restored iconography, underground passages below the seating area and a central grassy arena. It is one of the most important places for understanding the Roman layer of ancient Dyrrhachium. }} * {{see | name=Durrës Ancient City Wall | alt=Kalaja e Durrësit, Byzantine and Venetian walls | url= | email= | address=Rruga Sotir Noka | lat=41.3126 | long=19.4441 | directions=Next to the Amphitheater | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Surviving sections of the ancient and medieval walls of Durrës, close to the amphitheatre and old city centre. Around the walls are other historic features, including the Medieval Hammam and the Tophane Well. }} * {{see | name=Venetian Tower | alt=Rotonda, Kalaja | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3097 | long=19.4469 | directions=Near the old city walls and central promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | image=Durrës Albania 1.jpg | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=Circular defensive tower in the city centre, built in the 16th century and associated with the Venetian fortifications of Durrës. Visitors can climb steep stairs to the top and see a multimedia presentation projected inside the dome. }} * {{see | image= | name=Shen Mehilli Hill | alt=Kodra e Shen Mehillit, Saint Michael Hill, Basilica of Saint Michael | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës, near Arapaj | phone= | hours=Open archaeological area; check access locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Hill and archaeological area associated with the early Christian Basilica of Saint Michael, a 5th- or 6th-century site with mosaic remains. The area is also linked with the 1081 battle between Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos and Norman leader Robert Guiscard. }} * {{see | name=Byzantine Forum | alt=Macellum | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31503961305186 | long=19.44581838485815 | directions=Near the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public archaeological area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 5th century AD, the Byzantine Forum, also known as the Macellum, preserves remains of the ancient public space of the city. Public baths are around and beneath the Alexander Moissi Palace of Culture area. }} ===Historic residences and villas=== [[File:Villa e Zogut.jpg|thumb|King Zog's Villa]] * {{see | name=King Zog's Villa | alt=Vila e Zogut, Royal Villa of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kont Urani | lat=41.314724 | long=19.438698 | directions=On top of a hill overlooking the city | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually closed or irregular access; check locally before visiting | price= | wikipedia=Royal Villa of Durrës | image=Palace of king Zog durres.jpg | wikidata=Q13530086 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Former royal summer residence of King Zog, completed in 1937. It stands on a hill above Durrës and is known for its views over the bay, Italian Rationalist architecture and role in Albania's royal and 20th-century political history. The building has been damaged and interior access may be restricted, but the walk up is worthwhile for the façade and panorama. }} * {{see | image= | name=Aleksandër Moisiu House-Museum | alt=Shtepia Muze Aleksandër Moisiu, Alexander Moissi Museum House | url=https://akt.gov.al/en/atraksionet/shtepia-muze-aleksander-moisiu/ | email= | address=Rruga Kolonel Tomson, Durrës | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4460 | directions=In the historic centre, near the amphitheatre and Byzantine walls | phone=+355 52 223 150 | hours=Usually M-F 08:00-15:00; check before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Rare surviving 19th-century urban house in Durrës, associated with actor Aleksandër Moisiu. It has functioned as a house-museum and ethnographic museum, with displays on local daily life, folk clothing, household objects and Moisiu's life and career. }} * {{see | name=Old Doors Trail | alt=Path of Doors, Shtegu i Dyerve të Vjetra | url=https://www.muzehlab.org.al/old-doors-trail-in-durres/ | email=muzehlab@gmail.com | address=Old city centre, Durrës | lat=41.3123 | long=19.4462 | directions=Self-guided walking route through old Durrës | phone=+355 67 613 3262 | tollfree= | hours=Self-guided; contact MuZEH Lab for guided visits | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Heritage walking route through old Durrës focused on historic doors, family houses, courtyards and urban memory. Stops include old family houses and historic residences such as Villa Tedeschini, as well as streets around the older parts of the city. }} ===Civic buildings and other landmarks=== * {{see | name=Municipality | alt=Bashkia | url=http://www.Durrës.gov.al | email= | address=Sheshi Liria, 15 | lat=41.3127 | long=19.4463 | directions=On the main central square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Exterior view only unless visiting municipal offices | price=Free | image=Rathaus von Durres.jpg | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Municipal building on Sheshi Liria, one of the main civic spaces of central Durrës. It is useful as a landmark when navigating between the mosque, amphitheatre, Venetian Tower and old city streets. }} * {{see | image= | name=Kavaja Rock | alt=Shkembi i Kavajes | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.2779 | long=19.5192 | directions=SE 5 km, near Golem | phone= | hours=Open public landmark | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic landmark in Golem where caravans once passed along the ancient Via Egnatia. It is traditionally linked with a battle between Pompey and Julius Caesar and is also a useful coastal landmark south of Durrës. }} ===Old villages and rural heritage=== * {{see | name=Arapaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area; archaeological access may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village southeast of Durrës known for the nearby Basilica of Saint Michael and early Christian mosaic remains. It is useful for visitors interested in the rural edge of ancient Durrës and archaeological sites outside the city centre. }} * {{see | name=Shetaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shetaj, Durrës County | lat=41.567 | long=19.496 | directions=North of Durrës, on the way toward Cape of Rodon | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village in the northern coastal hinterland of Durrës County, useful as a base or stop when visiting Cape of Rodon, Rodoni Castle and nearby rural landscapes. It is better for visitors with a car. }} ===Natural and coastal landmarks=== * {{see | name=Lalzit Bay Area | alt=Gjiri i Lalëzit, Lalëz Bay | url=https://m.facebook.com/GjiriILazit/ | email= | address= | lat=41.4525 | long=19.4876 | directions=N 27 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open coastal area | price=Free; beach facilities may charge in season | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Long sandy bay north of Durrës, known for quieter beach areas, pine-backed coastline and access to Ishem Castle and Rrushkull Nature Reserve. It is best reached by car and is popular for beach stays outside central Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Rrushkull Nature Reserve | alt=Rezervati Rrushkull | url= | email= | address=Rrushkull, Durrës County | lat=41.435 | long=19.515 | directions=North of Durrës, near Lalzit Bay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open natural area; access conditions may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Coastal wetland and nature reserve near Lalzit Bay. It is mainly useful for visitors interested in quiet landscapes, birdlife, lagoons, dunes and natural areas outside the city. }} ===Further afield=== [[File:View of Lezhë.jpg|thumb|Lezhe]] * {{see | name=Rodoni Castle | alt=Kalaja e Rodonit | url= | email= | address=Cape of Rodon | lat=41.585982 | long=19.447504 | directions=Cape of Rodon, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check road and access conditions | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Ruined coastal castle at Cape of Rodon, traditionally associated with Skanderbeg. The site combines history, sea views, coastal walking and nearby religious heritage, and is best reached by car from Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Scanderbeg Castle | alt=Sebastia's Castle, Kalaja e Skënderbeut | url= | email= | address=Rruga e Sebastes, Laç village | lat=41.628339 | long=19.726932 | directions=N 33 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic castle site near Laç village. It is outside Durrës city and works best as a further-afield excursion for travellers exploring northern coastal and inland heritage sites. }} * {{see | name=Shen Ndout Church | alt=Kisha e Shna Ndout, Church of Saint Anthony | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kisha e Shna Ndout, Laç | lat=41.62898 | long=19.733149 | directions=Near Laç, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Active religious site; check pilgrimage and service times | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Important Catholic pilgrimage church near Laç. It is outside the city but can be combined with other northern excursions from Durrës, especially for visitors interested in religious sites and Albanian pilgrimage traditions. }} == Learn == * The '''Museum of Martyrs and Hall of War Relics''' on Rruga Aleksander Goga has a sizable public library on the second floor, with books in many European languages. The focus is definitely more on kids books than not, but it's still a good resource for anyone who needs to do some research or just stay entertained. As of 2025, the hours were 08:00-16:00. ==Do== * {{do | name=Culture Palace | alt= | url= | email=| address=Bulevardi Dyrrah | lat=41.3144 | long=19.4465| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Events }} * {{do | name=Evening walk | address= | lat= | long= | directions= promenade | content=Go for an evening walk along the sea front promenade or along the beach. }} * {{do | name=Villa Hill | alt=Kodra e Viles | url= | email=| address=Rruga Currila | lat=41.318185 | long=19.433438| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Panoramic view of Durrës seaside at Currilat from top of a newly reclaimed hill. }} * {{do | name=Seaside Large Steps | alt=Shkallet tek Brryli | url= | email=| address=Intersection between Rruga Currila and Rruga Taulantia| lat=41.310852 | long=19.435305| directions=Brryli area| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Sit and admire the sea from up close on these large steps descending into the water}} [[File:Stadiumi Niko Dovana.jpg|thumb|right|Stadium Niko Dovana]] * '''Football:''' [https://www.kfteuta.com/ KF Teuta]{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} play soccer in Kategoria Superiore, the country's top tier. Their home ground is Niko Dovana Stadium, capacity 12,000, one km north of the ferry port. ===Beaches=== [[File:Durres in summer.JPG|thumb|City beach]] * {{do | name=Lalzit Bay Beach | alt=Gjiri i Lalzit | url= | email= | address=near Hamallaj village | lat=41.3968 | long=19.4214 | directions=25 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular weekend retreat and exclusive wealthy beach area. A small resort can be found here. }} * {{do | name=Portez Beach | alt=Plazhi Portez | url= | email= | address=Bishti Palles | lat=41.4001 | long=19.404 | directions=13 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Durres in summer.JPG | content=Nice beach, bar, and wooden bungalows north of Currilat }} * {{do | name=Golem beach | alt=Plazhi Golemit/Mali i Robit | url= | email= | address=Golem, Mali Robit, Kavaja Rock (Shkembi i Kavajes) | lat=41.2509 | long=19.5194 | directions=follow SH4 and enter secondary road at Plepat roundabout (SH56, SH85) or continue along SH4 and exit at Golem/Mali Robit exit | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-05 | content=This is the main seaside resort south of Durrës with long sandy beaches popular among Albanians and foreigners alike. Tirana inhabitants have their beach houses and villas in the area for weekend and summer retreats. }} ===Diving=== * {{do | name=Sea Resort of Golem|alt= |url=https://diammaresort.al/en/ |email=| address=Diamma Resort, Rruga Kompleksit|lat=41.266001| long=19.519762| directions=S 7 km| phone=+355 69 666 1555 |hours= | price=| content=Take a dip in the Adriatic Sea water in the biggest sea side resort of Golem. }} === Events === * {{listing | name=Durrës International Biennale of Contemporary Art | alt=DIBoCA | url=https://durresbiennale.org/en/home | email=durresbiennale@gmail.com | address=Lagja 12, Rruga Abaz Çelkupa, Durrës | lat=41.318463 | long=19.452563 | directions=Near the city centre | phone=+355 69 472 7490 | tollfree= | hours=Biennial; check the official website for current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Biennial contemporary art exhibition supported by the Municipality of Durrës. It brings Albanian and international artists to the city through exhibitions, workshops, talks, and contemporary visual art projects. }} * {{listing | name=International Music Festival of Chamber Music | alt=Chamber Fest Durrës | url=https://www.chamberfestdurres.com/ | email= | address=Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral, Durrës | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=In the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the current programme | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Annual chamber music festival held in Durrës since 2006. It brings Albanian and international instrumentalists together for classical concerts, often in historic venues such as Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Durrës | alt=International Music Festival Festival Days in Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/ | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Performances are usually held in public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in early July; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music, folklore, and dance festival with parades, stage performances, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups from different countries. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Fest | alt=International Festival Durrës Fest | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/festivals/1108-5410-international-festival-durres-fest-summer | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central public spaces and performance venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folk, music, and dance festival focused on cultural exchange. Groups from different countries perform traditional and modern dances, choral music, orchestral music, and majorette programmes. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Albania | alt=International Folklore Festival Durrës | url=https://mioff.org/booking/xxix-festival-days-in-albania/ | email=office@mioff.org | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central performance areas and nearby hotels | phone=+389 78 700 619 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late June; check current dates before travelling | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folklore festival for folk groups, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups. The programme usually includes parades, performances, and optional sightseeing around Durrës. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Sunset | alt=International Music and Folk-Dance Festival Durrës Sunset | url=https://festival-association.eu/fest/688 | email=info@festival-association.eu | address=Durrës beach area | lat=41.289722 | long=19.513333 | directions=Usually based around beach hotels and public performance spaces | phone=+389 71 376 151 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music and folk-dance festival for children's, youth, and adult ensembles. The programme usually includes a city parade, public performances, a gala evening, and sightseeing. }} * {{listing | name=Dances in Durrës | alt=International Festival Dancing in Durrës | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/news/2025-11-10-international-festival-dances-in-durres-brings-cultures-together-from-around-the-world-in | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International dance and folklore festival with parades, evening performances, cultural walks, and music groups from different countries. It is aimed at dance ensembles, choirs, folklore groups, and modern dance groups. }} * {{listing | name=Summer Stars of Durrës | alt=International Competition and Festival of Arts Summer Stars of Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/en/festivals/1153-4768-international-competition-and-festival-of-arts-summer-stars-of-durres | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Check the organiser's current venue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in August 2024 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International arts competition and festival for soloists, ensembles, and young performers. It includes dance, choral, orchestral, modern, pop, jazz, hip-hop, and majorette categories. Confirm current editions before planning a visit. }} * {{listing | name=Roots of Durrës | alt=Roots of Durrës: Folk Traditions Festival | url=https://www.wofafestivals.com/news/roots-of-durres-folk-traditions-festival-2025/ | email=info@wofafestivals.com | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone=+389 75 491 218 | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in June 2025 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Folk traditions festival that has brought international folklore ensembles to perform in Durrës, including at the ancient amphitheatre. Confirm whether a current edition is scheduled before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Festa e Ullirit | alt=Olive Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually held around central cultural venues | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late October; check local announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Local festival celebrating the olive harvest and Durrës' connection with olive cultivation. It usually includes music, performances, local traditions, and honours for notable citizens. }} * {{listing | name=Art Explora Festival | alt= | url=https://www.artexplora.org/en/festival/city/durres | email= | address=Port of Durrës, Durrës | lat=41.308330 | long=19.454170 | directions=At the port quay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Occasional travelling festival; held in Durrës in April 2025 | price=Free admission or reservation-based depending on activity | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Travelling Mediterranean cultural festival with a museum boat, exhibitions, immersive experiences, talks, performances, workshops, concerts, and film screenings. It visited Durrës in 2025, but future stops should be confirmed from the official programme. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës International Film Summerfest | alt=Durrës International Film Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Historical event; check local cultural announcements for any revival | price= | wikidata=Q18351819 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International film festival founded in 2008 and historically held in Durrës, including at the amphitheatre and other cultural venues. Recent regular editions could not be confirmed, so do not rely on old official websites. }} * {{listing | name=Vox Baroque | alt=International Baroque Music Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Venues may vary; past performances have used heritage sites | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; check current announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Early music festival focused on Baroque repertoire and historical instruments. It has included Durrës among its Albanian heritage destinations, but current local dates should be verified before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Balkans Joint Conference and Exhibition | alt= | url=https://balkansjointconference.org/ | email= | address=Grand Blue Fafa Resort, Durrës | lat=41.269722 | long=19.519444 | directions=South of central Durrës, near the beach resort area | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually announced by edition; check the official conference website | price=Registration required | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Regional professional conference and technical exhibition for the water supply and wastewater sector. It brings together utilities, experts, companies, and public institutions from the Balkans. }} ==Buy== * Kokomani Wine— Albanian wine produced by Kokomani Winery, known for red and white wines made from local and international grape varieties. Bottles of wine and homemade raki are commonly sold in wine shops, supermarkets and souvenir stores in Durrës, and are popular gifts for visitors. * Souvenirs— Tourist souvenirs sold throughout Durrës include magnets, postcards, Albanian flag items, handmade jewelry, miniature amphora decorations and locally crafted gifts inspired by the city’s Roman and coastal heritage. * Sea Souvenirs— Shops near the beach sell seashell decorations, handmade marine crafts, beach-themed ornaments and Adriatic-inspired gifts commonly bought by summer tourists. * Household goods — Local markets and small stores offer practical household products, kitchenware, textiles and handmade wooden items used in traditional Albanian homes. * Traditional Albanian products— Traditional Albanian products available in Durrës include olive oil, mountain tea, local honey, dried herbs, filigree crafts, handmade carpets and bottles of raki produced in different regions of Albania. Many are sold in souvenir shops and artisan markets around the city. ==Eat== ===Budget=== ====In the city centre==== * {{eat | name=SAF - Gatime tradicionale | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31929 | long=19.45303 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-15:00 | price=200-500 lek | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Very traditional lunch menu. Every day they will have cooked something new and fresh. Prices are more than decent and food is delicious. }} * {{eat | name=Sema | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/SEMARestaurantDurrës/ | email= | address= | lat=41.313309 | long=19.446844 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa. Make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at round about take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia; bear right onto street H.Troplini. Turn right to stay on street H.Troplini; keep straight onto road; arrive on the right; there is Sema restaurant. | phone=+355 672033224 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:59 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rehat Kebab | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3144571 | long= 19.4471379 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Around the Ventus Harbour pier==== * {{eat | name=Mema House | alt= | url= | email=memahouse@hotmail.com | address=Taulantia Street | lat=41.310814 | long=19.441229 | directions=head east on Adria Street toward J.Ballhysa Street; make a U-turn to stay on Adria Street; at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Egnatia Promenade; at the next roundabout, take the 1st exit and bear right onto Taulantia Promenade | phone=+355 697541068 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Piceri Belvedere | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia | lat=41.3108788 | long=19.4374212 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Near the city centre==== * {{eat | name=Piceri 2 Engjejt | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Hysen Myshketa | lat=41.3221725 | long=19.4474410 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Pizza}} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Bar Restorant Kajser | alt= | url= | email=| address= | lat= | long= | directions=near King Zog's Villa| phone=| hours= | price= Delicious ice cream combinations including baked ice cream (400 lek), spaghetti, fish and baked lamb| content=it offers a panoramic view of Durrës from above. }} * {{eat | name=Splendid Restorant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Egnatia | lat=41.309062 | long=19.445899 | directions=from street Adria, toward street Adria; at roundabout 1st exit onto promenade Egnatia; arrive at promenade Egnatia on the left, you can find Splendid restaurant | phone=+355 692824222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Especially known locally for fish. Everything is fresh, tasty and served in the most professional way. Prices are slightly more than average for Albania, but for the whole experience of eating you get there it's worth every cent. }} * {{eat | name=Neps | alt= | url=https://www.instagram.com/neps.Durrës/ | email= | address= | lat= 41.3140238 | long=19.4338833 | directions=from Durrës railway station, take street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria; at the roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia. At roundabout, take the 1st exit; bear right onto promenade Taulantia; the road name changes to street of Currila and there you can find Neps restaurant | phone=+355 694609111 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Restaurant in industrial style near the sea. }} * {{eat | name=Pastiçeri Pelikani 1 | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Pavaresia | lat= | long= | directions=near Hotel Adriatic | phone=+355 683095270 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=You can eat different sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Rooftop XV | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/fly.restaurant.Durrës/ | email=fly.Durrës@gmail.com | address=Street Erazmi | lat=41.310318 | long=19.448046 | directions= | phone=+355 684058103 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This restaurant has a breathtaking view from the 15th/top floor. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Tirona | alt= | url= | email= | address=SH4, Rruga Pavaresia, Durrës 2001 | lat=41.315426 | long=19.470471 | directions= | phone=+355 682010358 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-20 | content=A local's favourite, Restaurant Tirona in Durrës, it has a great selection of fresh sea-food at very affordable prices. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Restorant Piazza |alt=Restorant Piazza|url=http://www.restorantpiazza.com| email= |address=Rruga Taulantia 1| lat=41.30889 |long=19.4464 |directions=near the port|phone=+355 52 237601 |hours=08:00-23:00| price=| lastedit=2022-05-01 |content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Venetian Tower (Rotonda) bar|alt= |url= |email=| address=| lat= |long= | directions=on top of the Venetian Tower| phone=|hours= |price=|content=It offers a nice view of Durrës and its coastline. }} * {{drink | name=788 cocktail bar Durrës | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/788.CocktailBar | email=kokaemilian@hotmail.com | address= | lat=41.311132 | long=19.446449 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay street Adria at aroundabout, take 2nd onto promenade Egnatia; bear right, and then be right onto street H.Troplini; turn left onto street Dok Margariti; turn right onto street De Rada and then immediately turn right onto street Epidamni; turn left onto street Mosque | phone=+355 692121788 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=Nice music, great cocktails and that seaside summer breeze. During winter instead, live music, different events and local activities. ''(Tower is under construction as of 2022-05-08.)'' }} * {{drink | name=Bonsai Caffe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Bonsai-Caff%C3%A9/100010089723822 | email=ninikoka7@gmail.com | address= | lat= 41.3186186 | long=19.4462547 | directions=from Durrës railway station, go right street Adria, continuing with Martyrs street; welded with Kerol Bar | phone=+355 674999111 | tollfree= |fax=| hours=07:00-23:00 | price= |wikidata=| lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=A nice selection of drinks and a very welcoming environment. }} * {{drink | name=Portiku Wine Bar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pg/portikuwinebar/about/?entry_point=page_nav_about_item&tab=page_info | email= | address= | lat=41.309926 | long=19.447359 | directions=from railway station, depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia there at roundabout take 1st exit. Turn right at street Epidamni | phone=+355 686080666 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 09:00-23:30, Th 09:00-23:00, F 09:00-23:45, Sa Su 09:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Arragosta Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.aragosta.al/sq/ | email=reservation@arragosta.al | address=Neighborhood 1, street Taulantia, Currila | lat=41.318272 | long=19.45344 | directions= | phone=+355 52 226 477 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content=4-star beachfront hotel in the Currila area offering modern rooms, a private beach area and an on-site seafood restaurant. Popular for sea views and its location near the promenade and historic center. Traditional Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine available. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Adriatik | alt= | url=http://www.adriatikhotel.com/ | email=info@adriatikhotel.com | address=Lagjia 13, Rruga Pavaresia, Plazh Durrës | lat=41.3053 | long=19.4917 | directions=near the beach | phone=+355 52 260850 | tollfree= | fax=+355 52 260855 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from €100 (April 2026) |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Historic five-star seaside hotel located in the Plazh area of Durrës. Features a private beach, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, spa facilities, conference areas and several restaurants and bars. Popular with business travelers and summer tourists. }} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Arvi|alt=|url=http://hotelarvi.com|email=|address=Rruga Taulantia 16| lat=41.3105| long=19.4433|directions=Center|phone=+355 52 230403|price=Single from €60 (2014.jun)|checkin=12:00-22:00|checkout=07:00-11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Central waterfront hotel near the city promenade and archaeological sites. Offers sea-view rooms, restaurant facilities and easy access to cafés and nightlife in the center of Durrës. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Lido Durrës | alt= | url=https://katestravelexperience.eu/lido-albania | email= | address=Lagja.2; Rruga Aleksander Goga | lat=41.31511 | long=19.44525 | directions= | phone=+355 52 227941 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from around €50 |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Mid-range city hotel located near the center and port area. Offers comfortable rooms, breakfast service and convenient access to shops, restaurants and public transport. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Nais|url=https://hotelnais.com/ |email= |address=Lagia 1, Rruga Naim Frasheri nr.46|lat=41.3107 |long=19.4466| directions=from the port: 100 meters toward the town center; left on Naim Frasheri street, behind the tower |phone=| hours= | price=Double rooms from around €40| checkin= | checkout=11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Three-star hotel located close to the port and town center, within walking distance of the main promenade. Known for quiet rooms and included breakfast despite its central location.}} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Pepeto|url=http://hotelpepeto.webs.com/|email=|address=Mbreti MONUM Nr.3, Rruga Ramazan Jella|lat=41.3136|long=19.4473|directions=|phone=+355 52 224190|price= |checkin=|checkout=|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Small boutique-style hotel in the historic center near the Venetian Tower and archaeological attractions. Offers modern rooms and easy access to restaurants and cafés around the old town. }} * {{sleep | name=Premium Hotel Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Golem Long Beach 2504 | lat=41.259048 | long=19.447398 | directions= | phone=+355 676041008 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-05 | content=Modern beachfront hotel in the Golem area south of Durrës. Features restaurants, bars and evening entertainment including live DJs during the summer season. Popular with beach holiday visitors. }} * {{sleep | name=Crowne Plazza Durres | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/gb/en/durres/tiaab/hoteldetail?cm_mmc=YextLocal-_-CP-_-AL-_-TIAAB | email= | address= | lat=41.3087 | long=19.4458 | directions=Central, promenade | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-01 | content=5 Star experience on the waterfront, promenade. Newly opened in 2026. Luxury waterfront hotel on the central promenade offering modern rooms, sea views, upscale dining and five-star facilities. Located close to beaches, nightlife and the city center. }} == Connect == 5G available now (2026). As of Sep 2021, Vodafone has the best coverage, with 4G in Durrës, the other main towns, and highways between. One and ALB have 4G in Durrës but less coverage elsewhere. 5G has not been rolled out in Albania. == Go next == * [[Tirana]] the capital is ringed by trees and mountains. Mount Dajt has great views of the city. * [[Kruje]] in the hills above Tirana has museums and an old castle. * [[Lezhe]] has Skanderbeg's Tomb, panoramic Lezhe Castle and several renovated churches * [[Fier]] is a lively seaside city, near the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia. * Fushë-Krujë its near with Durrës {{geo|41.323|19.441}} {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Coastal Albania}} {{related|Ferries_in_the_Mediterranean}} qligsycskeaztiahtvat01xlehymnwq 5288842 5288841 2026-06-06T13:15:16Z ~2026-25168-20 2396992 5288842 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Durrës banner.jpg|caption=Roman circus panorama}} '''Durrës''' is [[Albania|Albania's]] chief port. Located on the shores of the Adriatic, Durrës is a lively town, organized around beach culture. ==Understand== In parts Durrës is attractive and well maintained. In others it is somewhat ramshackle, with both active and what appears to be abandoned development co-existing next to each other. To some degree, this is a feature of Durres geology. The area is in a tectonically active zone, with extremely unstable geology. The next earthquake will cause the ground to undergo liquefaction again, and much of the new development will have to be pruned back once more, before regrowing. Still, the city is alive. There are abundant shops, retail stalls and street traders. They appear to trade from early morning until late and provide an attractive "always on" vibe to the city. It has ferries to [[Bari]] and Ancona in ([[Italy]]) and bus connections to other Albanian and international destinations, often via Tirana. Alternative spellings of the city's name are ''Durazzo'' (Italian), ''Drač'' (Драч, Serbo-Croatian) or ''Dyrrhachion'' (Δυρράχιον, Greek). ==Get in== ===By boat=== [[File:Durrës Albania.jpg|thumb|Durrës panoramic view]] * {{go | name=Ferry Terminal | alt=Terminali i Trageteve | url=https://www.Durrësport.al/ | email= | address= | lat=41.31587 | long=19.45447 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q100343249 | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content= }} From specific destinations: * [[Bari]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [https://www.gnv.it/en , GNV Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Ventouris [https://ventourisferries.com/en/ Ferries] * [[Ancona]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} * [[Trieste]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries] ===By bus=== If arriving to Durres by bus, make sure that you get off ''before'' the bus turns onto the highway going south towards Golem. The highway is very difficult to turn around on, and if you end up significantly south of Durres proper, it will be very difficult to find a taxi that can take you back into Durres, and it'll cost a fortune. Remember, ride share apps do not work in Albania as of 2025. * {{go | name=Bus Terminal | alt=Stacioni I Autobuzave | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31783 | long=19.45375 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content=Buses and furgons from Tirana usually arrive at this bus terminal with the "Durrës" logo on the outside near the old railway station. There are also some international connections and a direct airport bus. }} * {{go | name=Plepat Bus Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.29226 | long=19.50961 | directions=At the southern end of the promenade/beach. Take a local bus from the City Bus Terminal to get here. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=This is the bus station where buses from Tirana and most southern destinations, like [[Berat]] (450 lek), will stop to drop off passengers. Most buses will not head into the centre of Durrës. This is the only place with regular connections heading south. }} From specific destinations: * [[Tirana]] – The buses depart from the Northern Bus Station in Tirana near the Casa Italia shopping center. The ride takes around 45 min and costs 180 lek (Dec 2024). The bus operates daily every 30 min from 06:30 to 19:30. * [[Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza]] – The buses all depart south of the airport terminal. It should go every 1–2 hr. Price (Dec 2024): 600 lek. * [[Skopje]] (North Macedonia) – Buses run through Durrës on their way to Tirana. A typical Skopje-Tirana ticket costs around €25 return. * [[Kumanovo]] (North Macedonia) – There is a daily direct bus line to Durrës. The cost of tickets is around €20. * [[Pristina]] (Kosovo) – During the summer season there are several buses a day. You should check the timetables at the Pristina bus station, but in 2013 the timetable was as follows; 04:00, 05:00, 06:00 and 06:30 and then at 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00 and 23:00. There are at least a couple of buses going back at 16:00 and 17:00. Return ticket costs about €20. The trip takes around 4–5½ hr, depending on whether it goes via Prizren. Buses ran by Artiti Tours depart and arrive from the {{marker|type=go|name=Rrota e Kuqe stop|lat=41.3104760|long=19.4850781}} by a roundabout near the middle of Rruga Pavaresia street running parallel, and very close, to the beach. Tickets can be booked online at [https://travel.gjirafa.com Gjirafa] or [https://www.autobus.al/en/ Autobus.al]. The bus stop can be reached on foot in about ½ hr from the city centre. Alternatively, take a taxi (about €8) or use a bus running along Rruga Pavaresia from the city centre. ===By car=== There is a road between here and [[Tirana]], the SH2, which takes just over half an hour for the journey. You could [[Tirana#By plane|fly into]] Tirana, then drive or get a taxi to Durrës, with the airport connecting to the SH2 by the SH60. Also from Vorë and Shijak from main roads and highways. ===By commuter train=== Construction is underway for 2027, from Triana to Durres, and the Airport. ==Get around== {{mapframe|41.313| 19.442|zoom=15|layer=W}} === On foot === The city centre where the archaeological sites are located can be toured on foot. Durrës is a relatively compact city, so many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center and along the waterfront. If you're open to a longer walk, it's easy to get all the way to South Durres from the city core, and even further south than that, until you reach a part of the beach that's owned by the Albanian military and impassable. === By bus === Durrës has a public bus system that connects various parts of the city. Public buses are orange. You can purchase tickets from kiosks or directly from the bus driver or a controller who goes around the bus to sell & check tickets. Bus schedules may vary, so it is a good idea to check in advance. ==== Getting to the beach area of the city ==== Once you arrive at the Durrës bus station, there is a small Bus traffic sign with many people. From there you can take a bus with the sign Durazzo (or Durrës) Plepa. The bus stops at several designated stops along the Rruga Paveresia boulevard, i.e. along the beach (40 lek as of 2024). === By taxi === Many taxis are available in Durrës, and they are a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling to destinations not easily accessible by bus. You can find them parked everywhere on the streets with a taxi symbol on the top of their car. Make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver or demand to go with meter before starting your journey or you will definitely be overcharged. ==See== Durrës has layers of Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, royal Albanian, communist-era and modern history. The main sights are concentrated around the old city centre, with several important coastal and religious sites further afield. ===Religious sites=== ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Shen Lucia Catholic Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Luçia, Saint Lucia Catholic Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Don Nikoll Kacorri | lat= | long= | directions=In the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1907, this is one of the main Catholic churches in Durrës. It has simple Western-style architecture combined with local Albanian elements and remains an important place for Catholic worship, community gatherings, Christmas, Easter and other religious celebrations. }} * {{see | name=Shen Gjergji Orthodox Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Gjergjit, Saint George Orthodox Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Vath Turja | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 19th century and closely connected to the Orthodox Christian community of Durrës. The building contains Byzantine architectural features, including traditional domes and icons. Inside, visitors can see religious paintings and decorative iconography, making it useful both for worshippers and for travellers interested in the city’s religious history. }} * {{see | name=Saint Asti and Saint Paul Orthodox Church | alt=Katedralja Ortodokse e Shën Palit dhe Shën Asti | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4488 | directions=Near the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:30 - 20:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=The main Orthodox cathedral of Durrës. Built in 2001 after the revival of religious life in Albania following communism, it is considered one of the largest modern Orthodox churches in the country. It has a large central dome, Byzantine-style frescoes and is named after Saint Paul and Saint Asti, the first Christian martyr associated with Durrës. It is used for major religious ceremonies and official Orthodox Church events. }} ====Mosques==== * {{see | name=Fatih Mosque | alt=Xhamia Fatih | url= | email= | address=Rruga Xhamia, close to the historical centre and the Roman Amphitheatre | lat=41.311102 | long=19.445970 | directions=Near the Roman Amphitheatre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally; avoid prayer times if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Fatih Mosque, Durrës | image=Xhamia e Fatihut.jpg | wikidata=Q1398072 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1503 during the Ottoman period and named after Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, known as Fatih. It is one of the oldest mosques in Albania. The mosque has suffered damage from earthquakes and wars but has been restored several times, and its minaret and design represent classical Ottoman religious architecture. }} * {{see | name=Great Mosque of Durrës | alt=Xhamia e Madhe e Durrësit, New Mosque, Grand Mosque | url= | email= | address=Rruga Aleksander Goga, Durrës | lat=41.313297 | long=19.445461 | directions=City centre, near Sheshi Liria | phone= | tollfree= | hours=06:00-09:30; visitors should avoid the busy Friday midday prayer if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Great Mosque of Durrës | image=Great Mosque in Durrës.JPG | wikidata=Q18888007 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Known locally as the Great Mosque. Built in 1937, it is sometimes called the New Mosque because it was constructed later than the older Ottoman mosques. It is one of the main Islamic religious centres in the city, with a large prayer hall and modern Islamic architecture. During Islamic holidays such as Eid, it becomes an important gathering place for worshippers. }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Archaeological Museum | alt=Muzeu Arkeologjik | url=https://m.facebook.com/muzeuarkeologjikDurrës/ | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia 32 | lat=41.311389 | long=19.440278 | directions=Near the seafront promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Temporarily closed until sometime in 2026 | price= | wikipedia=Durrës Archaeological Museum | wikidata=Q5316767 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The main archaeological museum of Durrës, normally focused on finds from ancient Dyrrhachium and the surrounding region. It is temporarily closed until sometime in 2026, so check locally before planning a visit. }} * {{see | image= | name=Popular Culture Museum | alt=Muzeu i Kulturës Popullore | url= | email= | address=Kavaje village, Rruga Skuraj | lat=41.180 | long=19.5549 | directions=S 18 km | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small local museum connected with traditional culture and daily life in the Durrës region. It may be useful for visitors interested in rural customs, folk objects and local heritage, but opening times should be checked locally. }} * {{see | name=World War II Relics Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3189417553968 | long=19.444248967878107 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small collection or hall connected with World War II memory in Durrës. Verify access and opening times locally, as information may be limited. }} * {{see | image= | name=Koloseo Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Gallery showcasing work by local painters and artists. Useful for visitors who want to see contemporary visual art in Durrës beyond the archaeological and historic sights. }} ===Ancient and medieval monuments=== [[File:Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg|thumb|Durrës, Roman Amphitheater]] * {{see | name=Durrës Amphitheatre | alt=Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kalase | lat=41.312222 | long=19.444867 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | wikipedia=Durrës Amphitheatre | image=Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg | wikidata=Q779868 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The largest Roman amphitheatre in the Balkans and the best-known ancient monument in Durrës. It includes restored iconography, underground passages below the seating area and a central grassy arena. It is one of the most important places for understanding the Roman layer of ancient Dyrrhachium. }} * {{see | name=Durrës Ancient City Wall | alt=Kalaja e Durrësit, Byzantine and Venetian walls | url= | email= | address=Rruga Sotir Noka | lat=41.3126 | long=19.4441 | directions=Next to the Amphitheater | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Surviving sections of the ancient and medieval walls of Durrës, close to the amphitheatre and old city centre. Around the walls are other historic features, including the Medieval Hammam and the Tophane Well. }} * {{see | name=Venetian Tower | alt=Rotonda, Kalaja | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3097 | long=19.4469 | directions=Near the old city walls and central promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | image=Durrës Albania 1.jpg | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=Circular defensive tower in the city centre, built in the 16th century and associated with the Venetian fortifications of Durrës. Visitors can climb steep stairs to the top and see a multimedia presentation projected inside the dome. }} * {{see | image= | name=Shen Mehilli Hill | alt=Kodra e Shen Mehillit, Saint Michael Hill, Basilica of Saint Michael | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës, near Arapaj | phone= | hours=Open archaeological area; check access locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Hill and archaeological area associated with the early Christian Basilica of Saint Michael, a 5th- or 6th-century site with mosaic remains. The area is also linked with the 1081 battle between Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos and Norman leader Robert Guiscard. }} * {{see | name=Byzantine Forum | alt=Macellum | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31503961305186 | long=19.44581838485815 | directions=Near the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public archaeological area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 5th century AD, the Byzantine Forum, also known as the Macellum, preserves remains of the ancient public space of the city. Public baths are around and beneath the Alexander Moissi Palace of Culture area. }} ===Historic residences and villas=== [[File:Villa e Zogut.jpg|thumb|King Zog's Villa]] * {{see | name=King Zog's Villa | alt=Vila e Zogut, Royal Villa of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kont Urani | lat=41.314724 | long=19.438698 | directions=On top of a hill overlooking the city | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually closed or irregular access; check locally before visiting | price= | wikipedia=Royal Villa of Durrës | image=Palace of king Zog durres.jpg | wikidata=Q13530086 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Former royal summer residence of King Zog, completed in 1937. It stands on a hill above Durrës and is known for its views over the bay, Italian Rationalist architecture and role in Albania's royal and 20th-century political history. The building has been damaged and interior access may be restricted, but the walk up is worthwhile for the façade and panorama. }} * {{see | image= | name=Aleksandër Moisiu House-Museum | alt=Shtepia Muze Aleksandër Moisiu, Alexander Moissi Museum House | url=https://akt.gov.al/en/atraksionet/shtepia-muze-aleksander-moisiu/ | email= | address=Rruga Kolonel Tomson, Durrës | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4460 | directions=In the historic centre, near the amphitheatre and Byzantine walls | phone=+355 52 223 150 | hours=Usually M-F 08:00-15:00; check before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Rare surviving 19th-century urban house in Durrës, associated with actor Aleksandër Moisiu. It has functioned as a house-museum and ethnographic museum, with displays on local daily life, folk clothing, household objects and Moisiu's life and career. }} * {{see | name=Old Doors Trail | alt=Path of Doors, Shtegu i Dyerve të Vjetra | url=https://www.muzehlab.org.al/old-doors-trail-in-durres/ | email=muzehlab@gmail.com | address=Old city centre, Durrës | lat=41.3123 | long=19.4462 | directions=Self-guided walking route through old Durrës | phone=+355 67 613 3262 | tollfree= | hours=Self-guided; contact MuZEH Lab for guided visits | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Heritage walking route through old Durrës focused on historic doors, family houses, courtyards and urban memory. Stops include old family houses and historic residences such as Villa Tedeschini, as well as streets around the older parts of the city. }} ===Civic buildings and other landmarks=== * {{see | name=Municipality | alt=Bashkia | url=http://www.Durrës.gov.al | email= | address=Sheshi Liria, 15 | lat=41.3127 | long=19.4463 | directions=On the main central square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Exterior view only unless visiting municipal offices | price=Free | image=Rathaus von Durres.jpg | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Municipal building on Sheshi Liria, one of the main civic spaces of central Durrës. It is useful as a landmark when navigating between the mosque, amphitheatre, Venetian Tower and old city streets. }} * {{see | image= | name=Kavaja Rock | alt=Shkembi i Kavajes | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.2779 | long=19.5192 | directions=SE 5 km, near Golem | phone= | hours=Open public landmark | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic landmark in Golem where caravans once passed along the ancient Via Egnatia. It is traditionally linked with a battle between Pompey and Julius Caesar and is also a useful coastal landmark south of Durrës. }} ===Old villages and rural heritage=== * {{see | name=Arapaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area; archaeological access may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village southeast of Durrës known for the nearby Basilica of Saint Michael and early Christian mosaic remains. It is useful for visitors interested in the rural edge of ancient Durrës and archaeological sites outside the city centre. }} * {{see | name=Shetaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shetaj, Durrës County | lat=41.567 | long=19.496 | directions=North of Durrës, on the way toward Cape of Rodon | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village in the northern coastal hinterland of Durrës County, useful as a base or stop when visiting Cape of Rodon, Rodoni Castle and nearby rural landscapes. It is better for visitors with a car. }} ===Natural and coastal landmarks=== * {{see | name=Lalzit Bay Area | alt=Gjiri i Lalëzit, Lalëz Bay | url=https://m.facebook.com/GjiriILazit/ | email= | address= | lat=41.4525 | long=19.4876 | directions=N 27 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open coastal area | price=Free; beach facilities may charge in season | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Long sandy bay north of Durrës, known for quieter beach areas, pine-backed coastline and access to Ishem Castle and Rrushkull Nature Reserve. It is best reached by car and is popular for beach stays outside central Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Rrushkull Nature Reserve | alt=Rezervati Rrushkull | url= | email= | address=Rrushkull, Durrës County | lat=41.435 | long=19.515 | directions=North of Durrës, near Lalzit Bay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open natural area; access conditions may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Coastal wetland and nature reserve near Lalzit Bay. It is mainly useful for visitors interested in quiet landscapes, birdlife, lagoons, dunes and natural areas outside the city. }} ===Further afield=== [[File:View of Lezhë.jpg|thumb|Lezhe]] * {{see | name=Rodoni Castle | alt=Kalaja e Rodonit | url= | email= | address=Cape of Rodon | lat=41.585982 | long=19.447504 | directions=Cape of Rodon, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check road and access conditions | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Ruined coastal castle at Cape of Rodon, traditionally associated with Skanderbeg. The site combines history, sea views, coastal walking and nearby religious heritage, and is best reached by car from Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Scanderbeg Castle | alt=Sebastia's Castle, Kalaja e Skënderbeut | url= | email= | address=Rruga e Sebastes, Laç village | lat=41.628339 | long=19.726932 | directions=N 33 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic castle site near Laç village. It is outside Durrës city and works best as a further-afield excursion for travellers exploring northern coastal and inland heritage sites. }} * {{see | name=Shen Ndout Church | alt=Kisha e Shna Ndout, Church of Saint Anthony | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kisha e Shna Ndout, Laç | lat=41.62898 | long=19.733149 | directions=Near Laç, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Active religious site; check pilgrimage and service times | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Important Catholic pilgrimage church near Laç. It is outside the city but can be combined with other northern excursions from Durrës, especially for visitors interested in religious sites and Albanian pilgrimage traditions. }} == Learn == * The '''Museum of Martyrs and Hall of War Relics''' on Rruga Aleksander Goga has a sizable public library on the second floor, with books in many European languages. The focus is definitely more on kids books than not, but it's still a good resource for anyone who needs to do some research or just stay entertained. As of 2025, the hours were 08:00-16:00. ==Do== * {{do | name=Culture Palace | alt= | url= | email=| address=Bulevardi Dyrrah | lat=41.3144 | long=19.4465| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Events }} * {{do | name=Evening walk | address= | lat= | long= | directions= promenade | content=Go for an evening walk along the sea front promenade or along the beach. }} * {{do | name=Villa Hill | alt=Kodra e Viles | url= | email=| address=Rruga Currila | lat=41.318185 | long=19.433438| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Panoramic view of Durrës seaside at Currilat from top of a newly reclaimed hill. }} * {{do | name=Seaside Large Steps | alt=Shkallet tek Brryli | url= | email=| address=Intersection between Rruga Currila and Rruga Taulantia| lat=41.310852 | long=19.435305| directions=Brryli area| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Sit and admire the sea from up close on these large steps descending into the water}} [[File:Stadiumi Niko Dovana.jpg|thumb|right|Stadium Niko Dovana]] * '''Football:''' [https://www.kfteuta.com/ KF Teuta]{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} play football in Kategoria Superiore, the country's top tier. Their home ground is Niko Dovana Stadium, capacity 12,000, one km north of the ferry port. ===Beaches=== [[File:Durres in summer.JPG|thumb|City beach]] * {{do | name=Lalzit Bay Beach | alt=Gjiri i Lalzit | url= | email= | address=near Hamallaj village | lat=41.3968 | long=19.4214 | directions=25 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular weekend retreat and exclusive wealthy beach area. A small resort can be found here. }} * {{do | name=Portez Beach | alt=Plazhi Portez | url= | email= | address=Bishti Palles | lat=41.4001 | long=19.404 | directions=13 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Durres in summer.JPG | content=Nice beach, bar, and wooden bungalows north of Currilat }} * {{do | name=Golem beach | alt=Plazhi Golemit/Mali i Robit | url= | email= | address=Golem, Mali Robit, Kavaja Rock (Shkembi i Kavajes) | lat=41.2509 | long=19.5194 | directions=follow SH4 and enter secondary road at Plepat roundabout (SH56, SH85) or continue along SH4 and exit at Golem/Mali Robit exit | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-05 | content=This is the main seaside resort south of Durrës with long sandy beaches popular among Albanians and foreigners alike. Tirana inhabitants have their beach houses and villas in the area for weekend and summer retreats. }} ===Diving=== * {{do | name=Sea Resort of Golem|alt= |url=https://diammaresort.al/en/ |email=| address=Diamma Resort, Rruga Kompleksit|lat=41.266001| long=19.519762| directions=S 7 km| phone=+355 69 666 1555 |hours= | price=| content=Take a dip in the Adriatic Sea water in the biggest sea side resort of Golem. }} === Events === * {{listing | name=Durrës International Biennale of Contemporary Art | alt=DIBoCA | url=https://durresbiennale.org/en/home | email=durresbiennale@gmail.com | address=Lagja 12, Rruga Abaz Çelkupa, Durrës | lat=41.318463 | long=19.452563 | directions=Near the city centre | phone=+355 69 472 7490 | tollfree= | hours=Biennial; check the official website for current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Biennial contemporary art exhibition supported by the Municipality of Durrës. It brings Albanian and international artists to the city through exhibitions, workshops, talks, and contemporary visual art projects. }} * {{listing | name=International Music Festival of Chamber Music | alt=Chamber Fest Durrës | url=https://www.chamberfestdurres.com/ | email= | address=Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral, Durrës | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=In the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the current programme | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Annual chamber music festival held in Durrës since 2006. It brings Albanian and international instrumentalists together for classical concerts, often in historic venues such as Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Durrës | alt=International Music Festival Festival Days in Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/ | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Performances are usually held in public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in early July; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music, folklore, and dance festival with parades, stage performances, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups from different countries. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Fest | alt=International Festival Durrës Fest | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/festivals/1108-5410-international-festival-durres-fest-summer | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central public spaces and performance venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folk, music, and dance festival focused on cultural exchange. Groups from different countries perform traditional and modern dances, choral music, orchestral music, and majorette programmes. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Albania | alt=International Folklore Festival Durrës | url=https://mioff.org/booking/xxix-festival-days-in-albania/ | email=office@mioff.org | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central performance areas and nearby hotels | phone=+389 78 700 619 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late June; check current dates before travelling | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folklore festival for folk groups, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups. The programme usually includes parades, performances, and optional sightseeing around Durrës. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Sunset | alt=International Music and Folk-Dance Festival Durrës Sunset | url=https://festival-association.eu/fest/688 | email=info@festival-association.eu | address=Durrës beach area | lat=41.289722 | long=19.513333 | directions=Usually based around beach hotels and public performance spaces | phone=+389 71 376 151 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music and folk-dance festival for children's, youth, and adult ensembles. The programme usually includes a city parade, public performances, a gala evening, and sightseeing. }} * {{listing | name=Dances in Durrës | alt=International Festival Dancing in Durrës | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/news/2025-11-10-international-festival-dances-in-durres-brings-cultures-together-from-around-the-world-in | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International dance and folklore festival with parades, evening performances, cultural walks, and music groups from different countries. It is aimed at dance ensembles, choirs, folklore groups, and modern dance groups. }} * {{listing | name=Summer Stars of Durrës | alt=International Competition and Festival of Arts Summer Stars of Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/en/festivals/1153-4768-international-competition-and-festival-of-arts-summer-stars-of-durres | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Check the organiser's current venue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in August 2024 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International arts competition and festival for soloists, ensembles, and young performers. It includes dance, choral, orchestral, modern, pop, jazz, hip-hop, and majorette categories. Confirm current editions before planning a visit. }} * {{listing | name=Roots of Durrës | alt=Roots of Durrës: Folk Traditions Festival | url=https://www.wofafestivals.com/news/roots-of-durres-folk-traditions-festival-2025/ | email=info@wofafestivals.com | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone=+389 75 491 218 | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in June 2025 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Folk traditions festival that has brought international folklore ensembles to perform in Durrës, including at the ancient amphitheatre. Confirm whether a current edition is scheduled before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Festa e Ullirit | alt=Olive Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually held around central cultural venues | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late October; check local announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Local festival celebrating the olive harvest and Durrës' connection with olive cultivation. It usually includes music, performances, local traditions, and honours for notable citizens. }} * {{listing | name=Art Explora Festival | alt= | url=https://www.artexplora.org/en/festival/city/durres | email= | address=Port of Durrës, Durrës | lat=41.308330 | long=19.454170 | directions=At the port quay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Occasional travelling festival; held in Durrës in April 2025 | price=Free admission or reservation-based depending on activity | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Travelling Mediterranean cultural festival with a museum boat, exhibitions, immersive experiences, talks, performances, workshops, concerts, and film screenings. It visited Durrës in 2025, but future stops should be confirmed from the official programme. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës International Film Summerfest | alt=Durrës International Film Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Historical event; check local cultural announcements for any revival | price= | wikidata=Q18351819 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International film festival founded in 2008 and historically held in Durrës, including at the amphitheatre and other cultural venues. Recent regular editions could not be confirmed, so do not rely on old official websites. }} * {{listing | name=Vox Baroque | alt=International Baroque Music Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Venues may vary; past performances have used heritage sites | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; check current announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Early music festival focused on Baroque repertoire and historical instruments. It has included Durrës among its Albanian heritage destinations, but current local dates should be verified before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Balkans Joint Conference and Exhibition | alt= | url=https://balkansjointconference.org/ | email= | address=Grand Blue Fafa Resort, Durrës | lat=41.269722 | long=19.519444 | directions=South of central Durrës, near the beach resort area | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually announced by edition; check the official conference website | price=Registration required | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Regional professional conference and technical exhibition for the water supply and wastewater sector. It brings together utilities, experts, companies, and public institutions from the Balkans. }} ==Buy== * Kokomani Wine— Albanian wine produced by Kokomani Winery, known for red and white wines made from local and international grape varieties. Bottles of wine and homemade raki are commonly sold in wine shops, supermarkets and souvenir stores in Durrës, and are popular gifts for visitors. * Souvenirs— Tourist souvenirs sold throughout Durrës include magnets, postcards, Albanian flag items, handmade jewelry, miniature amphora decorations and locally crafted gifts inspired by the city’s Roman and coastal heritage. * Sea Souvenirs— Shops near the beach sell seashell decorations, handmade marine crafts, beach-themed ornaments and Adriatic-inspired gifts commonly bought by summer tourists. * Household goods — Local markets and small stores offer practical household products, kitchenware, textiles and handmade wooden items used in traditional Albanian homes. * Traditional Albanian products— Traditional Albanian products available in Durrës include olive oil, mountain tea, local honey, dried herbs, filigree crafts, handmade carpets and bottles of raki produced in different regions of Albania. Many are sold in souvenir shops and artisan markets around the city. ==Eat== ===Budget=== ====In the city centre==== * {{eat | name=SAF - Gatime tradicionale | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31929 | long=19.45303 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-15:00 | price=200-500 lek | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Very traditional lunch menu. Every day they will have cooked something new and fresh. Prices are more than decent and food is delicious. }} * {{eat | name=Sema | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/SEMARestaurantDurrës/ | email= | address= | lat=41.313309 | long=19.446844 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa. Make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at round about take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia; bear right onto street H.Troplini. Turn right to stay on street H.Troplini; keep straight onto road; arrive on the right; there is Sema restaurant. | phone=+355 672033224 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:59 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rehat Kebab | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3144571 | long= 19.4471379 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Around the Ventus Harbour pier==== * {{eat | name=Mema House | alt= | url= | email=memahouse@hotmail.com | address=Taulantia Street | lat=41.310814 | long=19.441229 | directions=head east on Adria Street toward J.Ballhysa Street; make a U-turn to stay on Adria Street; at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Egnatia Promenade; at the next roundabout, take the 1st exit and bear right onto Taulantia Promenade | phone=+355 697541068 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Piceri Belvedere | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia | lat=41.3108788 | long=19.4374212 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Near the city centre==== * {{eat | name=Piceri 2 Engjejt | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Hysen Myshketa | lat=41.3221725 | long=19.4474410 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Pizza}} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Bar Restorant Kajser | alt= | url= | email=| address= | lat= | long= | directions=near King Zog's Villa| phone=| hours= | price= Delicious ice cream combinations including baked ice cream (400 lek), spaghetti, fish and baked lamb| content=it offers a panoramic view of Durrës from above. }} * {{eat | name=Splendid Restorant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Egnatia | lat=41.309062 | long=19.445899 | directions=from street Adria, toward street Adria; at roundabout 1st exit onto promenade Egnatia; arrive at promenade Egnatia on the left, you can find Splendid restaurant | phone=+355 692824222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Especially known locally for fish. Everything is fresh, tasty and served in the most professional way. Prices are slightly more than average for Albania, but for the whole experience of eating you get there it's worth every cent. }} * {{eat | name=Neps | alt= | url=https://www.instagram.com/neps.Durrës/ | email= | address= | lat= 41.3140238 | long=19.4338833 | directions=from Durrës railway station, take street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria; at the roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia. At roundabout, take the 1st exit; bear right onto promenade Taulantia; the road name changes to street of Currila and there you can find Neps restaurant | phone=+355 694609111 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Restaurant in industrial style near the sea. }} * {{eat | name=Pastiçeri Pelikani 1 | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Pavaresia | lat= | long= | directions=near Hotel Adriatic | phone=+355 683095270 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=You can eat different sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Rooftop XV | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/fly.restaurant.Durrës/ | email=fly.Durrës@gmail.com | address=Street Erazmi | lat=41.310318 | long=19.448046 | directions= | phone=+355 684058103 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This restaurant has a breathtaking view from the 15th/top floor. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Tirona | alt= | url= | email= | address=SH4, Rruga Pavaresia, Durrës 2001 | lat=41.315426 | long=19.470471 | directions= | phone=+355 682010358 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-20 | content=A local's favourite, Restaurant Tirona in Durrës, it has a great selection of fresh sea-food at very affordable prices. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Restorant Piazza |alt=Restorant Piazza|url=http://www.restorantpiazza.com| email= |address=Rruga Taulantia 1| lat=41.30889 |long=19.4464 |directions=near the port|phone=+355 52 237601 |hours=08:00-23:00| price=| lastedit=2022-05-01 |content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Venetian Tower (Rotonda) bar|alt= |url= |email=| address=| lat= |long= | directions=on top of the Venetian Tower| phone=|hours= |price=|content=It offers a nice view of Durrës and its coastline. }} * {{drink | name=788 cocktail bar Durrës | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/788.CocktailBar | email=kokaemilian@hotmail.com | address= | lat=41.311132 | long=19.446449 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay street Adria at aroundabout, take 2nd onto promenade Egnatia; bear right, and then be right onto street H.Troplini; turn left onto street Dok Margariti; turn right onto street De Rada and then immediately turn right onto street Epidamni; turn left onto street Mosque | phone=+355 692121788 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=Nice music, great cocktails and that seaside summer breeze. During winter instead, live music, different events and local activities. ''(Tower is under construction as of 2022-05-08.)'' }} * {{drink | name=Bonsai Caffe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Bonsai-Caff%C3%A9/100010089723822 | email=ninikoka7@gmail.com | address= | lat= 41.3186186 | long=19.4462547 | directions=from Durrës railway station, go right street Adria, continuing with Martyrs street; welded with Kerol Bar | phone=+355 674999111 | tollfree= |fax=| hours=07:00-23:00 | price= |wikidata=| lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=A nice selection of drinks and a very welcoming environment. }} * {{drink | name=Portiku Wine Bar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pg/portikuwinebar/about/?entry_point=page_nav_about_item&tab=page_info | email= | address= | lat=41.309926 | long=19.447359 | directions=from railway station, depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia there at roundabout take 1st exit. Turn right at street Epidamni | phone=+355 686080666 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 09:00-23:30, Th 09:00-23:00, F 09:00-23:45, Sa Su 09:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Arragosta Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.aragosta.al/sq/ | email=reservation@arragosta.al | address=Neighborhood 1, street Taulantia, Currila | lat=41.318272 | long=19.45344 | directions= | phone=+355 52 226 477 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content=4-star beachfront hotel in the Currila area offering modern rooms, a private beach area and an on-site seafood restaurant. Popular for sea views and its location near the promenade and historic center. Traditional Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine available. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Adriatik | alt= | url=http://www.adriatikhotel.com/ | email=info@adriatikhotel.com | address=Lagjia 13, Rruga Pavaresia, Plazh Durrës | lat=41.3053 | long=19.4917 | directions=near the beach | phone=+355 52 260850 | tollfree= | fax=+355 52 260855 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from €100 (April 2026) |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Historic five-star seaside hotel located in the Plazh area of Durrës. Features a private beach, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, spa facilities, conference areas and several restaurants and bars. Popular with business travelers and summer tourists. }} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Arvi|alt=|url=http://hotelarvi.com|email=|address=Rruga Taulantia 16| lat=41.3105| long=19.4433|directions=Center|phone=+355 52 230403|price=Single from €60 (2014.jun)|checkin=12:00-22:00|checkout=07:00-11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Central waterfront hotel near the city promenade and archaeological sites. Offers sea-view rooms, restaurant facilities and easy access to cafés and nightlife in the center of Durrës. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Lido Durrës | alt= | url=https://katestravelexperience.eu/lido-albania | email= | address=Lagja.2; Rruga Aleksander Goga | lat=41.31511 | long=19.44525 | directions= | phone=+355 52 227941 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from around €50 |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Mid-range city hotel located near the center and port area. Offers comfortable rooms, breakfast service and convenient access to shops, restaurants and public transport. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Nais|url=https://hotelnais.com/ |email= |address=Lagia 1, Rruga Naim Frasheri nr.46|lat=41.3107 |long=19.4466| directions=from the port: 100 meters toward the town center; left on Naim Frasheri street, behind the tower |phone=| hours= | price=Double rooms from around €40| checkin= | checkout=11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Three-star hotel located close to the port and town center, within walking distance of the main promenade. Known for quiet rooms and included breakfast despite its central location.}} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Pepeto|url=http://hotelpepeto.webs.com/|email=|address=Mbreti MONUM Nr.3, Rruga Ramazan Jella|lat=41.3136|long=19.4473|directions=|phone=+355 52 224190|price= |checkin=|checkout=|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Small boutique-style hotel in the historic center near the Venetian Tower and archaeological attractions. Offers modern rooms and easy access to restaurants and cafés around the old town. }} * {{sleep | name=Premium Hotel Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Golem Long Beach 2504 | lat=41.259048 | long=19.447398 | directions= | phone=+355 676041008 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-05 | content=Modern beachfront hotel in the Golem area south of Durrës. Features restaurants, bars and evening entertainment including live DJs during the summer season. Popular with beach holiday visitors. }} * {{sleep | name=Crowne Plazza Durres | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/gb/en/durres/tiaab/hoteldetail?cm_mmc=YextLocal-_-CP-_-AL-_-TIAAB | email= | address= | lat=41.3087 | long=19.4458 | directions=Central, promenade | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-01 | content=5 Star experience on the waterfront, promenade. Newly opened in 2026. Luxury waterfront hotel on the central promenade offering modern rooms, sea views, upscale dining and five-star facilities. Located close to beaches, nightlife and the city center. }} == Connect == 5G available now (2026). As of Sep 2021, Vodafone has the best coverage, with 4G in Durrës, the other main towns, and highways between. One and ALB have 4G in Durrës but less coverage elsewhere. 5G has not been rolled out in Albania. == Go next == * [[Tirana]] the capital is ringed by trees and mountains. Mount Dajt has great views of the city. * [[Kruje]] in the hills above Tirana has museums and an old castle. * [[Lezhe]] has Skanderbeg's Tomb, panoramic Lezhe Castle and several renovated churches * [[Fier]] is a lively seaside city, near the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia. * Fushë-Krujë its near with Durrës {{geo|41.323|19.441}} {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Coastal Albania}} {{related|Ferries_in_the_Mediterranean}} 34mpdbis66nmi8xjxhcjmq2edzwvl6i 5288843 5288842 2026-06-06T13:15:44Z ~2026-25168-20 2396992 5288843 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Durrës banner.jpg|caption=Roman circus panorama}} '''Durrës''' is [[Albania|Albania's]] chief port. Located on the shores of the Adriatic, Durrës is a lively town, organized around beach culture. ==Understand== In parts Durrës is attractive and well maintained. In others it is somewhat ramshackle, with both active and what appears to be abandoned development co-existing next to each other. To some degree, this is a feature of Durres geology. The area is in a tectonically active zone, with extremely unstable geology. The next earthquake will cause the ground to undergo liquefaction again, and much of the new development will have to be pruned back once more, before regrowing. Still, the city is alive. There are abundant shops, retail stalls and street traders. They appear to trade from early morning until late and provide an attractive "always on" vibe to the city. It has ferries to [[Bari]] and Ancona in ([[Italy]]) and bus connections to other Albanian and international destinations, often via Tirana. Alternative spellings of the city's name are ''Durazzo'' (Italian), ''Drač'' (Драч, Serbo-Croatian) or ''Dyrrhachion'' (Δυρράχιον, Greek). ==Get in== ===By boat=== [[File:Durrës Albania.jpg|thumb|Durrës panoramic view]] * {{go | name=Ferry Terminal | alt=Terminali i Trageteve | url=https://www.Durrësport.al/ | email= | address= | lat=41.31587 | long=19.45447 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q100343249 | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content= }} From specific destinations: * [[Bari]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [https://www.gnv.it/en , GNV Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Ventouris [https://ventourisferries.com/en/ Ferries] * [[Ancona]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} * [[Trieste]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries] ===By bus=== If arriving to Durres by bus, make sure that you get off ''before'' the bus turns onto the highway going south towards Golem. The highway is very difficult to turn around on, and if you end up significantly south of Durres proper, it will be very difficult to find a taxi that can take you back into Durres, and it'll cost a fortune. Remember, ride share apps do not work in Albania as of 2025. * {{go | name=Bus Terminal | alt=Stacioni I Autobuzave | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31783 | long=19.45375 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content=Buses and furgons from Tirana usually arrive at this bus terminal with the "Durrës" logo on the outside near the old railway station. There are also some international connections and a direct airport bus. }} * {{go | name=Plepat Bus Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.29226 | long=19.50961 | directions=At the southern end of the promenade/beach. Take a local bus from the City Bus Terminal to get here. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=This is the bus station where buses from Tirana and most southern destinations, like [[Berat]] (450 lek), will stop to drop off passengers. Most buses will not head into the centre of Durrës. This is the only place with regular connections heading south. }} From specific destinations: * [[Tirana]] – The buses depart from the Northern Bus Station in Tirana near the Casa Italia shopping center. The ride takes around 45 min and costs 180 lek (Dec 2024). The bus operates daily every 30 min from 06:30 to 19:30. * [[Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza]] – The buses all depart south of the airport terminal. It should go every 1–2 hr. Price (Dec 2024): 600 lek. * [[Skopje]] (North Macedonia) – Buses run through Durrës on their way to Tirana. A typical Skopje-Tirana ticket costs around €25 return. * [[Kumanovo]] (North Macedonia) – There is a daily direct bus line to Durrës. The cost of tickets is around €20. * [[Pristina]] (Kosovo) – During the summer season there are several buses a day. You should check the timetables at the Pristina bus station, but in 2013 the timetable was as follows; 04:00, 05:00, 06:00 and 06:30 and then at 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00 and 23:00. There are at least a couple of buses going back at 16:00 and 17:00. Return ticket costs about €20. The trip takes around 4–5½ hr, depending on whether it goes via Prizren. Buses ran by Artiti Tours depart and arrive from the {{marker|type=go|name=Rrota e Kuqe stop|lat=41.3104760|long=19.4850781}} by a roundabout near the middle of Rruga Pavaresia street running parallel, and very close, to the beach. Tickets can be booked online at [https://travel.gjirafa.com Gjirafa] or [https://www.autobus.al/en/ Autobus.al]. The bus stop can be reached on foot in about ½ hr from the city centre. Alternatively, take a taxi (about €8) or use a bus running along Rruga Pavaresia from the city centre. ===By car=== There is a road between here and [[Tirana]], the SH2, which takes just over half an hour for the journey. You could [[Tirana#By plane|fly into]] Tirana, then drive or get a taxi to Durrës, with the airport connecting to the SH2 by the SH60. Also from Vorë and Shijak from main roads and highways. ===By commuter train=== Construction is underway for 2027, from Triana to Durres, and the Airport. ==Get around== {{mapframe|41.313| 19.442|zoom=15|layer=W}} === On foot === The city centre where the archaeological sites are located can be toured on foot. Durrës is a relatively compact city, so many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center and along the waterfront. If you're open to a longer walk, it's easy to get all the way to South Durres from the city core, and even further south than that, until you reach a part of the beach that's owned by the Albanian military and impassable. === By bus === Durrës has a public bus system that connects various parts of the city. Public buses are orange. You can purchase tickets from kiosks or directly from the bus driver or a controller who goes around the bus to sell & check tickets. Bus schedules may vary, so it is a good idea to check in advance. ==== Getting to the beach area of the city ==== Once you arrive at the Durrës bus station, there is a small Bus traffic sign with many people. From there you can take a bus with the sign Durazzo (or Durrës) Plepa. The bus stops at several designated stops along the Rruga Paveresia boulevard, i.e. along the beach (40 lek as of 2024). === By taxi === Many taxis are available in Durrës, and they are a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling to destinations not easily accessible by bus. You can find them parked everywhere on the streets with a taxi symbol on the top of their car. Make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver or demand to go with meter before starting your journey or you will definitely be overcharged. ==See== Durrës has layers of Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, royal Albanian, communist-era and modern history. The main sights are concentrated around the old city centre, with several important coastal and religious sites further afield. ===Religious sites=== ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Shen Lucia Catholic Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Luçia, Saint Lucia Catholic Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Don Nikoll Kacorri | lat= | long= | directions=In the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1907, this is one of the main Catholic churches in Durrës. It has simple Western-style architecture combined with local Albanian elements and remains an important place for Catholic worship, community gatherings, Christmas, Easter and other religious celebrations. }} * {{see | name=Shen Gjergji Orthodox Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Gjergjit, Saint George Orthodox Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Vath Turja | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 19th century and closely connected to the Orthodox Christian community of Durrës. The building contains Byzantine architectural features, including traditional domes and icons. Inside, visitors can see religious paintings and decorative iconography, making it useful both for worshippers and for travellers interested in the city’s religious history. }} * {{see | name=Saint Asti and Saint Paul Orthodox Church | alt=Katedralja Ortodokse e Shën Palit dhe Shën Asti | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4488 | directions=Near the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:30 - 20:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=The main Orthodox cathedral of Durrës. Built in 2001 after the revival of religious life in Albania following communism, it is considered one of the largest modern Orthodox churches in the country. It has a large central dome, Byzantine-style frescoes and is named after Saint Paul and Saint Asti, the first Christian martyr associated with Durrës. It is used for major religious ceremonies and official Orthodox Church events. }} ====Mosques==== * {{see | name=Fatih Mosque | alt=Xhamia Fatih | url= | email= | address=Rruga Xhamia, close to the historical centre and the Roman Amphitheatre | lat=41.311102 | long=19.445970 | directions=Near the Roman Amphitheatre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally; avoid prayer times if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Fatih Mosque, Durrës | image=Xhamia e Fatihut.jpg | wikidata=Q1398072 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1503 during the Ottoman period and named after Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, known as Fatih. It is one of the oldest mosques in Albania. The mosque has suffered damage from earthquakes and wars but has been restored several times, and its minaret and design represent classical Ottoman religious architecture. }} * {{see | name=Great Mosque of Durrës | alt=Xhamia e Madhe e Durrësit, New Mosque, Grand Mosque | url= | email= | address=Rruga Aleksander Goga, Durrës | lat=41.313297 | long=19.445461 | directions=City centre, near Sheshi Liria | phone= | tollfree= | hours=06:00-09:30; visitors should avoid the busy Friday midday prayer if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Great Mosque of Durrës | image=Great Mosque in Durrës.JPG | wikidata=Q18888007 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Known locally as the Great Mosque. Built in 1937, it is sometimes called the New Mosque because it was constructed later than the older Ottoman mosques. It is one of the main Islamic religious centres in the city, with a large prayer hall and modern Islamic architecture. During Islamic holidays such as Eid, it becomes an important gathering place for worshippers. }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Archaeological Museum | alt=Muzeu Arkeologjik | url=https://m.facebook.com/muzeuarkeologjikDurrës/ | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia 32 | lat=41.311389 | long=19.440278 | directions=Near the seafront promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Temporarily closed until sometime in 2026 | price= | wikipedia=Durrës Archaeological Museum | wikidata=Q5316767 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The main archaeological museum of Durrës, normally focused on finds from ancient Dyrrhachium and the surrounding region. It is temporarily closed until sometime in 2026, so check locally before planning a visit. }} * {{see | image= | name=Popular Culture Museum | alt=Muzeu i Kulturës Popullore | url= | email= | address=Kavaje village, Rruga Skuraj | lat=41.180 | long=19.5549 | directions=S 18 km | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small local museum connected with traditional culture and daily life in the Durrës region. It may be useful for visitors interested in rural customs, folk objects and local heritage, but opening times should be checked locally. }} * {{see | name=World War II Relics Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3189417553968 | long=19.444248967878107 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small collection or hall connected with World War II memory in Durrës. Verify access and opening times locally, as information may be limited. }} * {{see | image= | name=Koloseo Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Gallery showcasing work by local painters and artists. Useful for visitors who want to see contemporary visual art in Durrës beyond the archaeological and historic sights. }} ===Ancient and medieval monuments=== [[File:Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg|thumb|Durrës, Roman Amphitheater]] * {{see | name=Durrës Amphitheatre | alt=Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kalase | lat=41.312222 | long=19.444867 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | wikipedia=Durrës Amphitheatre | image=Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg | wikidata=Q779868 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The largest Roman amphitheatre in the Balkans and the best-known ancient monument in Durrës. It includes restored iconography, underground passages below the seating area and a central grassy arena. It is one of the most important places for understanding the Roman layer of ancient Dyrrhachium. }} * {{see | name=Durrës Ancient City Wall | alt=Kalaja e Durrësit, Byzantine and Venetian walls | url= | email= | address=Rruga Sotir Noka | lat=41.3126 | long=19.4441 | directions=Next to the Amphitheater | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Surviving sections of the ancient and medieval walls of Durrës, close to the amphitheatre and old city centre. Around the walls are other historic features, including the Medieval Hammam and the Tophane Well. }} * {{see | name=Venetian Tower | alt=Rotonda, Kalaja | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3097 | long=19.4469 | directions=Near the old city walls and central promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | image=Durrës Albania 1.jpg | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=Circular defensive tower in the city centre, built in the 16th century and associated with the Venetian fortifications of Durrës. Visitors can climb steep stairs to the top and see a multimedia presentation projected inside the dome. }} * {{see | image= | name=Shen Mehilli Hill | alt=Kodra e Shen Mehillit, Saint Michael Hill, Basilica of Saint Michael | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës, near Arapaj | phone= | hours=Open archaeological area; check access locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Hill and archaeological area associated with the early Christian Basilica of Saint Michael, a 5th- or 6th-century site with mosaic remains. The area is also linked with the 1081 battle between Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos and Norman leader Robert Guiscard. }} * {{see | name=Byzantine Forum | alt=Macellum | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31503961305186 | long=19.44581838485815 | directions=Near the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public archaeological area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 5th century AD, the Byzantine Forum, also known as the Macellum, preserves remains of the ancient public space of the city. Public baths are around and beneath the Alexander Moissi Palace of Culture area. }} ===Historic residences and villas=== [[File:Villa e Zogut.jpg|thumb|King Zog's Villa]] * {{see | name=King Zog's Villa | alt=Vila e Zogut, Royal Villa of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kont Urani | lat=41.314724 | long=19.438698 | directions=On top of a hill overlooking the city | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually closed or irregular access; check locally before visiting | price= | wikipedia=Royal Villa of Durrës | image=Palace of king Zog durres.jpg | wikidata=Q13530086 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Former royal summer residence of King Zog, completed in 1937. It stands on a hill above Durrës and is known for its views over the bay, Italian Rationalist architecture and role in Albania's royal and 20th-century political history. The building has been damaged and interior access may be restricted, but the walk up is worthwhile for the façade and panorama. }} * {{see | image= | name=Aleksandër Moisiu House-Museum | alt=Shtepia Muze Aleksandër Moisiu, Alexander Moissi Museum House | url=https://akt.gov.al/en/atraksionet/shtepia-muze-aleksander-moisiu/ | email= | address=Rruga Kolonel Tomson, Durrës | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4460 | directions=In the historic centre, near the amphitheatre and Byzantine walls | phone=+355 52 223 150 | hours=Usually M-F 08:00-15:00; check before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Rare surviving 19th-century urban house in Durrës, associated with actor Aleksandër Moisiu. It has functioned as a house-museum and ethnographic museum, with displays on local daily life, folk clothing, household objects and Moisiu's life and career. }} * {{see | name=Old Doors Trail | alt=Path of Doors, Shtegu i Dyerve të Vjetra | url=https://www.muzehlab.org.al/old-doors-trail-in-durres/ | email=muzehlab@gmail.com | address=Old city centre, Durrës | lat=41.3123 | long=19.4462 | directions=Self-guided walking route through old Durrës | phone=+355 67 613 3262 | tollfree= | hours=Self-guided; contact MuZEH Lab for guided visits | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Heritage walking route through old Durrës focused on historic doors, family houses, courtyards and urban memory. Stops include old family houses and historic residences such as Villa Tedeschini, as well as streets around the older parts of the city. }} ===Civic buildings and other landmarks=== * {{see | name=Municipality | alt=Bashkia | url=http://www.Durrës.gov.al | email= | address=Sheshi Liria, 15 | lat=41.3127 | long=19.4463 | directions=On the main central square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Exterior view only unless visiting municipal offices | price=Free | image=Rathaus von Durres.jpg | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Municipal building on Sheshi Liria, one of the main civic spaces of central Durrës. It is useful as a landmark when navigating between the mosque, amphitheatre, Venetian Tower and old city streets. }} * {{see | image= | name=Kavaja Rock | alt=Shkembi i Kavajes | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.2779 | long=19.5192 | directions=SE 5 km, near Golem | phone= | hours=Open public landmark | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic landmark in Golem where caravans once passed along the ancient Via Egnatia. It is traditionally linked with a battle between Pompey and Julius Caesar and is also a useful coastal landmark south of Durrës. }} ===Old villages and rural heritage=== * {{see | name=Arapaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area; archaeological access may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village southeast of Durrës known for the nearby Basilica of Saint Michael and early Christian mosaic remains. It is useful for visitors interested in the rural edge of ancient Durrës and archaeological sites outside the city centre. }} * {{see | name=Shetaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shetaj, Durrës County | lat=41.567 | long=19.496 | directions=North of Durrës, on the way toward Cape of Rodon | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village in the northern coastal hinterland of Durrës County, useful as a base or stop when visiting Cape of Rodon, Rodoni Castle and nearby rural landscapes. It is better for visitors with a car. }} ===Natural and coastal landmarks=== * {{see | name=Lalzit Bay Area | alt=Gjiri i Lalëzit, Lalëz Bay | url=https://m.facebook.com/GjiriILazit/ | email= | address= | lat=41.4525 | long=19.4876 | directions=N 27 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open coastal area | price=Free; beach facilities may charge in season | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Long sandy bay north of Durrës, known for quieter beach areas, pine-backed coastline and access to Ishem Castle and Rrushkull Nature Reserve. It is best reached by car and is popular for beach stays outside central Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Rrushkull Nature Reserve | alt=Rezervati Rrushkull | url= | email= | address=Rrushkull, Durrës County | lat=41.435 | long=19.515 | directions=North of Durrës, near Lalzit Bay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open natural area; access conditions may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Coastal wetland and nature reserve near Lalzit Bay. It is mainly useful for visitors interested in quiet landscapes, birdlife, lagoons, dunes and natural areas outside the city. }} ===Further afield=== [[File:View of Lezhë.jpg|thumb|Lezhe]] * {{see | name=Rodoni Castle | alt=Kalaja e Rodonit | url= | email= | address=Cape of Rodon | lat=41.585982 | long=19.447504 | directions=Cape of Rodon, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check road and access conditions | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Ruined coastal castle at Cape of Rodon, traditionally associated with Skanderbeg. The site combines history, sea views, coastal walking and nearby religious heritage, and is best reached by car from Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Scanderbeg Castle | alt=Sebastia's Castle, Kalaja e Skënderbeut | url= | email= | address=Rruga e Sebastes, Laç village | lat=41.628339 | long=19.726932 | directions=N 33 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic castle site near Laç village. It is outside Durrës city and works best as a further-afield excursion for travellers exploring northern coastal and inland heritage sites. }} * {{see | name=Shen Ndout Church | alt=Kisha e Shna Ndout, Church of Saint Anthony | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kisha e Shna Ndout, Laç | lat=41.62898 | long=19.733149 | directions=Near Laç, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Active religious site; check pilgrimage and service times | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Important Catholic pilgrimage church near Laç. It is outside the city but can be combined with other northern excursions from Durrës, especially for visitors interested in religious sites and Albanian pilgrimage traditions. }} == Learn == * The '''Museum of Martyrs and Hall of War Relics''' on Rruga Aleksander Goga has a sizable public library on the second floor, with books in many European languages. The focus is definitely more on kids books than not, but it's still a good resource for anyone who needs to do some research or just stay entertained. As of 2025, the hours were 08:00-16:00. ==Do== * {{do | name=Culture Palace | alt= | url= | email=| address=Bulevardi Dyrrah | lat=41.3144 | long=19.4465| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Events }} * {{do | name=Evening walk | address= | lat= | long= | directions= promenade | content=Go for an evening walk along the sea front promenade or along the beach. }} * {{do | name=Villa Hill | alt=Kodra e Viles | url= | email=| address=Rruga Currila | lat=41.318185 | long=19.433438| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Panoramic view of Durrës seaside at Currilat from top of a newly reclaimed hill. }} * {{do | name=Seaside Large Steps | alt=Shkallet tek Brryli | url= | email=| address=Intersection between Rruga Currila and Rruga Taulantia| lat=41.310852 | long=19.435305| directions=Brryli area| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Sit and admire the sea from up close on these large steps descending into the water}} [[File:Stadiumi Niko Dovana.jpg|thumb|right|Stadium Niko Dovana]] * '''Football:''' [https://www.kfteuta.com/ KF Teuta]{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} play football in Kategoria Superiore, the country's top tier. Their home ground is Niko Dovana Stadium, capacity 12,000, one km north of the ferry port. ===Beaches=== [[File:Durres in summer.JPG|thumb|City beach]] * {{do | name=Lalzit Bay Beach | alt=Gjiri i Lalzit | url= | email= | address=near Hamallaj village | lat=41.3968 | long=19.4214 | directions=25 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular weekend retreat and exclusive wealthy beach area. A small resort can be found here. }} * {{do | name=Portez Beach | alt=Plazhi Portez | url= | email= | address=Bishti Palles | lat=41.4001 | long=19.404 | directions=13 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Durres in summer.JPG | content=Nice beach, bar, and wooden bungalows north of Currilat }} * {{do | name=Golem beach | alt=Plazhi Golemit/Mali i Robit | url= | email= | address=Golem, Mali Robit, Kavaja Rock (Shkembi i Kavajes) | lat=41.2509 | long=19.5194 | directions=follow SH4 and enter secondary road at Plepat roundabout (SH56, SH85) or continue along SH4 and exit at Golem/Mali Robit exit | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-05 | content=This is the main seaside resort south of Durrës with long sandy beaches popular among Albanians and foreigners alike. Tirana inhabitants have their beach houses and villas in the area for weekend and summer retreats. }} ===Diving=== * {{do | name=Sea Resort of Golem|alt= |url=https://diammaresort.al/en/ |email=| address=Diamma Resort, Rruga Kompleksit|lat=41.266001| long=19.519762| directions=S 7 km| phone=+355 69 666 1555 |hours= | price=| content=Take a dip in the Adriatic Sea water in the biggest sea side resort of Golem. }} === Events === * {{listing | name=Durrës International Biennale of Contemporary Art | alt=DIBoCA | url=https://durresbiennale.org/en/home | email=durresbiennale@gmail.com | address=Lagja 12, Rruga Abaz Çelkupa, Durrës | lat=41.318463 | long=19.452563 | directions=Near the city centre | phone=+355 69 472 7490 | tollfree= | hours=Biennial; check the official website for current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Biennial contemporary art exhibition supported by the Municipality of Durrës. It brings Albanian and international artists to the city through exhibitions, workshops, talks, and contemporary visual art projects. }} * {{listing | name=International Music Festival of Chamber Music | alt=Chamber Fest Durrës | url=https://www.chamberfestdurres.com/ | email= | address=Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral, Durrës | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=In the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the current programme | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Annual chamber music festival held in Durrës since 2006. It brings Albanian and international instrumentalists together for classical concerts, often in historic venues such as Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Durrës | alt=International Music Festival Festival Days in Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/ | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Performances are usually held in public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in early July; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music, folklore, and dance festival with parades, stage performances, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups from different countries. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Fest | alt=International Festival Durrës Fest | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/festivals/1108-5410-international-festival-durres-fest-summer | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central public spaces and performance venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folk, music, and dance festival focused on cultural exchange. Groups from different countries perform traditional and modern dances, choral music, orchestral music, and majorette programmes. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Albania | alt=International Folklore Festival Durrës | url=https://mioff.org/booking/xxix-festival-days-in-albania/ | email=office@mioff.org | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central performance areas and nearby hotels | phone=+389 78 700 619 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late June; check current dates before travelling | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folklore festival for folk groups, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups. The programme usually includes parades, performances, and optional sightseeing around Durrës. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Sunset | alt=International Music and Folk-Dance Festival Durrës Sunset | url=https://festival-association.eu/fest/688 | email=info@festival-association.eu | address=Durrës beach area | lat=41.289722 | long=19.513333 | directions=Usually based around beach hotels and public performance spaces | phone=+389 71 376 151 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music and folk-dance festival for children's, youth, and adult ensembles. The programme usually includes a city parade, public performances, a gala evening, and sightseeing. }} * {{listing | name=Dances in Durrës | alt=International Festival Dancing in Durrës | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/news/2025-11-10-international-festival-dances-in-durres-brings-cultures-together-from-around-the-world-in | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International dance and folklore festival with parades, evening performances, cultural walks, and music groups from different countries. It is aimed at dance ensembles, choirs, folklore groups, and modern dance groups. }} * {{listing | name=Summer Stars of Durrës | alt=International Competition and Festival of Arts Summer Stars of Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/en/festivals/1153-4768-international-competition-and-festival-of-arts-summer-stars-of-durres | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Check the organiser's current venue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in August 2024 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International arts competition and festival for soloists, ensembles, and young performers. It includes dance, choral, orchestral, modern, pop, jazz, hip-hop, and majorette categories. Confirm current editions before planning a visit. }} * {{listing | name=Roots of Durrës | alt=Roots of Durrës: Folk Traditions Festival | url=https://www.wofafestivals.com/news/roots-of-durres-folk-traditions-festival-2025/ | email=info@wofafestivals.com | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone=+389 75 491 218 | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in June 2025 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Folk traditions festival that has brought international folklore ensembles to perform in Durrës, including at the ancient amphitheatre. Confirm whether a current edition is scheduled before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Festa e Ullirit | alt=Olive Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually held around central cultural venues | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late October; check local announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Local festival celebrating the olive harvest and Durrës' connection with olive cultivation. It usually includes music, performances, local traditions, and honours for notable citizens. }} * {{listing | name=Art Explora Festival | alt= | url=https://www.artexplora.org/en/festival/city/durres | email= | address=Port of Durrës, Durrës | lat=41.308330 | long=19.454170 | directions=At the port quay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Occasional travelling festival; held in Durrës in April 2025 | price=Free admission or reservation-based depending on activity | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Travelling Mediterranean cultural festival with a museum boat, exhibitions, immersive experiences, talks, performances, workshops, concerts, and film screenings. It visited Durrës in 2025, but future stops should be confirmed from the official programme. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës International Film Summerfest | alt=Durrës International Film Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Historical event; check local cultural announcements for any revival | price= | wikidata=Q18351819 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International film festival founded in 2008 and historically held in Durrës, including at the amphitheatre and other cultural venues. Recent regular editions could not be confirmed, so do not rely on old official websites. }} * {{listing | name=Vox Baroque | alt=International Baroque Music Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Venues may vary; past performances have used heritage sites | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; check current announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Early music festival focused on Baroque repertoire and historical instruments. It has included Durrës among its Albanian heritage destinations, but current local dates should be verified before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Balkans Joint Conference and Exhibition | alt= | url=https://balkansjointconference.org/ | email= | address=Grand Blue Fafa Resort, Durrës | lat=41.269722 | long=19.519444 | directions=South of central Durrës, near the beach resort area | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually announced by edition; check the official conference website | price=Registration required | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Regional professional conference and technical exhibition for the water supply and wastewater sector. It brings together utilities, experts, companies, and public institutions from the Balkans. }} ==Buy== * Kokomani Wine— Albanian wine produced by Kokomani Winery, known for red and white wines made from local and international grape varieties. Bottles of wine and homemade raki are commonly sold in wine shops, supermarkets and souvenir stores in Durrës, and are popular gifts for visitors. * Souvenirs— Tourist souvenirs sold throughout Durrës include magnets, postcards, Albanian flag items, handmade jewellery, miniature amphora decorations and locally crafted gifts inspired by the city’s Roman and coastal heritage. * Sea Souvenirs— Shops near the beach sell seashell decorations, handmade marine crafts, beach-themed ornaments and Adriatic-inspired gifts commonly bought by summer tourists. * Household goods — Local markets and small stores offer practical household products, kitchenware, textiles and handmade wooden items used in traditional Albanian homes. * Traditional Albanian products— Traditional Albanian products available in Durrës include olive oil, mountain tea, local honey, dried herbs, filigree crafts, handmade carpets and bottles of raki produced in different regions of Albania. Many are sold in souvenir shops and artisan markets around the city. ==Eat== ===Budget=== ====In the city centre==== * {{eat | name=SAF - Gatime tradicionale | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31929 | long=19.45303 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-15:00 | price=200-500 lek | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Very traditional lunch menu. Every day they will have cooked something new and fresh. Prices are more than decent and food is delicious. }} * {{eat | name=Sema | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/SEMARestaurantDurrës/ | email= | address= | lat=41.313309 | long=19.446844 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa. Make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at round about take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia; bear right onto street H.Troplini. Turn right to stay on street H.Troplini; keep straight onto road; arrive on the right; there is Sema restaurant. | phone=+355 672033224 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:59 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rehat Kebab | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3144571 | long= 19.4471379 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Around the Ventus Harbour pier==== * {{eat | name=Mema House | alt= | url= | email=memahouse@hotmail.com | address=Taulantia Street | lat=41.310814 | long=19.441229 | directions=head east on Adria Street toward J.Ballhysa Street; make a U-turn to stay on Adria Street; at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Egnatia Promenade; at the next roundabout, take the 1st exit and bear right onto Taulantia Promenade | phone=+355 697541068 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Piceri Belvedere | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia | lat=41.3108788 | long=19.4374212 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Near the city centre==== * {{eat | name=Piceri 2 Engjejt | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Hysen Myshketa | lat=41.3221725 | long=19.4474410 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Pizza}} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Bar Restorant Kajser | alt= | url= | email=| address= | lat= | long= | directions=near King Zog's Villa| phone=| hours= | price= Delicious ice cream combinations including baked ice cream (400 lek), spaghetti, fish and baked lamb| content=it offers a panoramic view of Durrës from above. }} * {{eat | name=Splendid Restorant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Egnatia | lat=41.309062 | long=19.445899 | directions=from street Adria, toward street Adria; at roundabout 1st exit onto promenade Egnatia; arrive at promenade Egnatia on the left, you can find Splendid restaurant | phone=+355 692824222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Especially known locally for fish. Everything is fresh, tasty and served in the most professional way. Prices are slightly more than average for Albania, but for the whole experience of eating you get there it's worth every cent. }} * {{eat | name=Neps | alt= | url=https://www.instagram.com/neps.Durrës/ | email= | address= | lat= 41.3140238 | long=19.4338833 | directions=from Durrës railway station, take street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria; at the roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia. At roundabout, take the 1st exit; bear right onto promenade Taulantia; the road name changes to street of Currila and there you can find Neps restaurant | phone=+355 694609111 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Restaurant in industrial style near the sea. }} * {{eat | name=Pastiçeri Pelikani 1 | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Pavaresia | lat= | long= | directions=near Hotel Adriatic | phone=+355 683095270 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=You can eat different sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Rooftop XV | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/fly.restaurant.Durrës/ | email=fly.Durrës@gmail.com | address=Street Erazmi | lat=41.310318 | long=19.448046 | directions= | phone=+355 684058103 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This restaurant has a breathtaking view from the 15th/top floor. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Tirona | alt= | url= | email= | address=SH4, Rruga Pavaresia, Durrës 2001 | lat=41.315426 | long=19.470471 | directions= | phone=+355 682010358 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-20 | content=A local's favourite, Restaurant Tirona in Durrës, it has a great selection of fresh sea-food at very affordable prices. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Restorant Piazza |alt=Restorant Piazza|url=http://www.restorantpiazza.com| email= |address=Rruga Taulantia 1| lat=41.30889 |long=19.4464 |directions=near the port|phone=+355 52 237601 |hours=08:00-23:00| price=| lastedit=2022-05-01 |content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Venetian Tower (Rotonda) bar|alt= |url= |email=| address=| lat= |long= | directions=on top of the Venetian Tower| phone=|hours= |price=|content=It offers a nice view of Durrës and its coastline. }} * {{drink | name=788 cocktail bar Durrës | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/788.CocktailBar | email=kokaemilian@hotmail.com | address= | lat=41.311132 | long=19.446449 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay street Adria at aroundabout, take 2nd onto promenade Egnatia; bear right, and then be right onto street H.Troplini; turn left onto street Dok Margariti; turn right onto street De Rada and then immediately turn right onto street Epidamni; turn left onto street Mosque | phone=+355 692121788 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=Nice music, great cocktails and that seaside summer breeze. During winter instead, live music, different events and local activities. ''(Tower is under construction as of 2022-05-08.)'' }} * {{drink | name=Bonsai Caffe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Bonsai-Caff%C3%A9/100010089723822 | email=ninikoka7@gmail.com | address= | lat= 41.3186186 | long=19.4462547 | directions=from Durrës railway station, go right street Adria, continuing with Martyrs street; welded with Kerol Bar | phone=+355 674999111 | tollfree= |fax=| hours=07:00-23:00 | price= |wikidata=| lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=A nice selection of drinks and a very welcoming environment. }} * {{drink | name=Portiku Wine Bar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pg/portikuwinebar/about/?entry_point=page_nav_about_item&tab=page_info | email= | address= | lat=41.309926 | long=19.447359 | directions=from railway station, depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia there at roundabout take 1st exit. Turn right at street Epidamni | phone=+355 686080666 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 09:00-23:30, Th 09:00-23:00, F 09:00-23:45, Sa Su 09:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Arragosta Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.aragosta.al/sq/ | email=reservation@arragosta.al | address=Neighborhood 1, street Taulantia, Currila | lat=41.318272 | long=19.45344 | directions= | phone=+355 52 226 477 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content=4-star beachfront hotel in the Currila area offering modern rooms, a private beach area and an on-site seafood restaurant. Popular for sea views and its location near the promenade and historic center. Traditional Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine available. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Adriatik | alt= | url=http://www.adriatikhotel.com/ | email=info@adriatikhotel.com | address=Lagjia 13, Rruga Pavaresia, Plazh Durrës | lat=41.3053 | long=19.4917 | directions=near the beach | phone=+355 52 260850 | tollfree= | fax=+355 52 260855 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from €100 (April 2026) |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Historic five-star seaside hotel located in the Plazh area of Durrës. Features a private beach, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, spa facilities, conference areas and several restaurants and bars. Popular with business travelers and summer tourists. }} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Arvi|alt=|url=http://hotelarvi.com|email=|address=Rruga Taulantia 16| lat=41.3105| long=19.4433|directions=Center|phone=+355 52 230403|price=Single from €60 (2014.jun)|checkin=12:00-22:00|checkout=07:00-11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Central waterfront hotel near the city promenade and archaeological sites. Offers sea-view rooms, restaurant facilities and easy access to cafés and nightlife in the center of Durrës. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Lido Durrës | alt= | url=https://katestravelexperience.eu/lido-albania | email= | address=Lagja.2; Rruga Aleksander Goga | lat=41.31511 | long=19.44525 | directions= | phone=+355 52 227941 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from around €50 |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Mid-range city hotel located near the center and port area. Offers comfortable rooms, breakfast service and convenient access to shops, restaurants and public transport. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Nais|url=https://hotelnais.com/ |email= |address=Lagia 1, Rruga Naim Frasheri nr.46|lat=41.3107 |long=19.4466| directions=from the port: 100 meters toward the town center; left on Naim Frasheri street, behind the tower |phone=| hours= | price=Double rooms from around €40| checkin= | checkout=11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Three-star hotel located close to the port and town center, within walking distance of the main promenade. Known for quiet rooms and included breakfast despite its central location.}} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Pepeto|url=http://hotelpepeto.webs.com/|email=|address=Mbreti MONUM Nr.3, Rruga Ramazan Jella|lat=41.3136|long=19.4473|directions=|phone=+355 52 224190|price= |checkin=|checkout=|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Small boutique-style hotel in the historic center near the Venetian Tower and archaeological attractions. Offers modern rooms and easy access to restaurants and cafés around the old town. }} * {{sleep | name=Premium Hotel Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Golem Long Beach 2504 | lat=41.259048 | long=19.447398 | directions= | phone=+355 676041008 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-05 | content=Modern beachfront hotel in the Golem area south of Durrës. Features restaurants, bars and evening entertainment including live DJs during the summer season. Popular with beach holiday visitors. }} * {{sleep | name=Crowne Plazza Durres | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/gb/en/durres/tiaab/hoteldetail?cm_mmc=YextLocal-_-CP-_-AL-_-TIAAB | email= | address= | lat=41.3087 | long=19.4458 | directions=Central, promenade | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-01 | content=5 Star experience on the waterfront, promenade. Newly opened in 2026. Luxury waterfront hotel on the central promenade offering modern rooms, sea views, upscale dining and five-star facilities. Located close to beaches, nightlife and the city center. }} == Connect == 5G available now (2026). As of Sep 2021, Vodafone has the best coverage, with 4G in Durrës, the other main towns, and highways between. One and ALB have 4G in Durrës but less coverage elsewhere. 5G has not been rolled out in Albania. == Go next == * [[Tirana]] the capital is ringed by trees and mountains. Mount Dajt has great views of the city. * [[Kruje]] in the hills above Tirana has museums and an old castle. * [[Lezhe]] has Skanderbeg's Tomb, panoramic Lezhe Castle and several renovated churches * [[Fier]] is a lively seaside city, near the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia. * Fushë-Krujë its near with Durrës {{geo|41.323|19.441}} {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Coastal Albania}} {{related|Ferries_in_the_Mediterranean}} ijs8mu9tew9kt1ddg9c793u314wsiou 5288845 5288843 2026-06-06T13:17:28Z ~2026-25168-20 2396992 5288845 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Durrës banner.jpg|caption=Roman circus panorama}} '''Durrës''' is [[Albania|Albania's]] chief port. Located on the shores of the Adriatic, Durrës is a lively town, organized around beach culture. ==Understand== In parts Durrës is attractive and well maintained. In others it is somewhat ramshackle, with both active and what appears to be abandoned development co-existing next to each other. To some degree, this is a feature of Durres geology. The area is in a tectonically active zone, with extremely unstable geology. The next earthquake will cause the ground to undergo liquefaction again, and much of the new development will have to be pruned back once more, before regrowing. Still, the city is alive. There are abundant shops, retail stalls and street traders. They appear to trade from early morning until late and provide an attractive "always on" vibe to the city. It has ferries to [[Bari]] and Ancona in ([[Italy]]) and bus connections to other Albanian and international destinations, often via Tirana. Alternative spellings of the city's name are ''Durazzo'' (Italian), ''Drač'' (Драч, Serbo-Croatian) or ''Dyrrhachion'' (Δυρράχιον, Greek). ==Get in== ===By boat=== [[File:Durrës Albania.jpg|thumb|Durrës panoramic view]] * {{go | name=Ferry Terminal | alt=Terminali i Trageteve | url=https://www.Durrësport.al/ | email= | address= | lat=41.31587 | long=19.45447 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q100343249 | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content= }} From specific destinations: * [[Bari]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [https://www.gnv.it/en , GNV Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Ventouris [https://ventourisferries.com/en/ Ferries] * [[Ancona]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} * [[Trieste]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries] ===By bus=== If arriving to Durres by bus, make sure that you get off ''before'' the bus turns onto the highway going south towards Golem. The highway is very difficult to turn around on, and if you end up significantly south of Durres proper, it will be very difficult to find a taxi that can take you back into Durres, and it'll cost a fortune. Remember, ride share apps do not work in Albania as of 2025. * {{go | name=Bus Terminal | alt=Stacioni I Autobuzave | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31783 | long=19.45375 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content=Buses and furgons from Tirana usually arrive at this bus terminal with the "Durrës" logo on the outside near the old railway station. There are also some international connections and a direct airport bus. }} * {{go | name=Plepat Bus Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.29226 | long=19.50961 | directions=At the southern end of the promenade/beach. Take a local bus from the City Bus Terminal to get here. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=This is the bus station where buses from Tirana and most southern destinations, like [[Berat]] (450 lek), will stop to drop off passengers. Most buses will not head into the centre of Durrës. This is the only place with regular connections heading south. }} From specific destinations: * [[Tirana]] – The buses depart from the Northern Bus Station in Tirana near the Casa Italia shopping center. The ride takes around 45 min and costs 180 lek (Dec 2024). The bus operates daily every 30 min from 06:30 to 19:30. * [[Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza]] – The buses all depart south of the airport terminal. It should go every 1–2 hr. Price (Dec 2024): 600 lek. * [[Skopje]] (North Macedonia) – Buses run through Durrës on their way to Tirana. A typical Skopje-Tirana ticket costs around €25 return. * [[Kumanovo]] (North Macedonia) – There is a daily direct bus line to Durrës. The cost of tickets is around €20. * [[Pristina]] (Kosovo) – During the summer season there are several buses a day. You should check the timetables at the Pristina bus station, but in 2013 the timetable was as follows; 04:00, 05:00, 06:00 and 06:30 and then at 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00 and 23:00. There are at least a couple of buses going back at 16:00 and 17:00. Return ticket costs about €20. The trip takes around 4–5½ hr, depending on whether it goes via Prizren. Buses ran by Artiti Tours depart and arrive from the {{marker|type=go|name=Rrota e Kuqe stop|lat=41.3104760|long=19.4850781}} by a roundabout near the middle of Rruga Pavaresia street running parallel, and very close, to the beach. Tickets can be booked online at [https://travel.gjirafa.com Gjirafa] or [https://www.autobus.al/en/ Autobus.al]. The bus stop can be reached on foot in about ½ hr from the city centre. Alternatively, take a taxi (about €8) or use a bus running along Rruga Pavaresia from the city centre. ===By car=== There is a road between here and [[Tirana]], the SH2, which takes just over half an hour for the journey. You could [[Tirana#By plane|fly into]] Tirana, then drive or get a taxi to Durrës, with the airport connecting to the SH2 by the SH60. Also from Vorë and Shijak from main roads and highways. ===By commuter train=== Construction is underway for 2027, from Triana to Durres, and the Airport. ==Get around== {{mapframe|41.313| 19.442|zoom=15|layer=W}} === On foot === The city centre where the archaeological sites are located can be toured on foot. Durrës is a relatively compact city, so many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center and along the waterfront. If you're open to a longer walk, it's easy to get all the way to South Durres from the city core, and even further south than that, until you reach a part of the beach that's owned by the Albanian military and impassable. === By bus === Durrës has a public bus system that connects various parts of the city. Public buses are orange. You can purchase tickets from kiosks or directly from the bus driver or a controller who goes around the bus to sell & check tickets. Bus schedules may vary, so it is a good idea to check in advance. ==== Getting to the beach area of the city ==== Once you arrive at the Durrës bus station, there is a small Bus traffic sign with many people. From there you can take a bus with the sign Durazzo (or Durrës) Plepa. The bus stops at several designated stops along the Rruga Paveresia boulevard, i.e. along the beach (40 lek as of 2024). === By taxi === Many taxis are available in Durrës, and they are a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling to destinations not easily accessible by bus. You can find them parked everywhere on the streets with a taxi symbol on the top of their car. Make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver or demand to go with meter before starting your journey or you will definitely be overcharged. ==See== Durrës has layers of Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, royal Albanian, communist-era and modern history. The main sights are concentrated around the old city centre, with several important coastal and religious sites further afield. ===Religious sites=== ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Shen Lucia Catholic Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Luçia, Saint Lucia Catholic Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Don Nikoll Kacorri | lat= | long= | directions=In the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1907, this is one of the main Catholic churches in Durrës. It has simple Western-style architecture combined with local Albanian elements and remains an important place for Catholic worship, community gatherings, Christmas, Easter and other religious celebrations. }} * {{see | name=Shen Gjergji Orthodox Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Gjergjit, Saint George Orthodox Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Vath Turja | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 19th century and closely connected to the Orthodox Christian community of Durrës. The building contains Byzantine architectural features, including traditional domes and icons. Inside, visitors can see religious paintings and decorative iconography, making it useful both for worshippers and for travellers interested in the city’s religious history. }} * {{see | name=Saint Asti and Saint Paul Orthodox Church | alt=Katedralja Ortodokse e Shën Palit dhe Shën Asti | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4488 | directions=Near the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:30 - 20:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=The main Orthodox cathedral of Durrës. Built in 2001 after the revival of religious life in Albania following communism, it is considered one of the largest modern Orthodox churches in the country. It has a large central dome, Byzantine-style frescoes and is named after Saint Paul and Saint Asti, the first Christian martyr associated with Durrës. It is used for major religious ceremonies and official Orthodox Church events. }} ====Mosques==== * {{see | name=Fatih Mosque | alt=Xhamia Fatih | url= | email= | address=Rruga Xhamia, close to the historical centre and the Roman Amphitheatre | lat=41.311102 | long=19.445970 | directions=Near the Roman Amphitheatre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally; avoid prayer times if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Fatih Mosque, Durrës | image=Xhamia e Fatihut.jpg | wikidata=Q1398072 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1503 during the Ottoman period and named after Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, known as Fatih. It is one of the oldest mosques in Albania. The mosque has suffered damage from earthquakes and wars but has been restored several times, and its minaret and design represent classical Ottoman religious architecture. }} * {{see | name=Great Mosque of Durrës | alt=Xhamia e Madhe e Durrësit, New Mosque, Grand Mosque | url= | email= | address=Rruga Aleksander Goga, Durrës | lat=41.313297 | long=19.445461 | directions=City centre, near Sheshi Liria | phone= | tollfree= | hours=06:00-09:30; visitors should avoid the busy Friday midday prayer if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Great Mosque of Durrës | image=Great Mosque in Durrës.JPG | wikidata=Q18888007 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Known locally as the Great Mosque. Built in 1937, it is sometimes called the New Mosque because it was constructed later than the older Ottoman mosques. It is one of the main Islamic religious centres in the city, with a large prayer hall and modern Islamic architecture. During Islamic holidays such as Eid, it becomes an important gathering place for worshippers. }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Archaeological Museum | alt=Muzeu Arkeologjik | url=https://m.facebook.com/muzeuarkeologjikDurrës/ | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia 32 | lat=41.311389 | long=19.440278 | directions=Near the seafront promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Temporarily closed until sometime in 2026 | price= | wikipedia=Durrës Archaeological Museum | wikidata=Q5316767 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The main archaeological museum of Durrës, normally focused on finds from ancient Dyrrhachium and the surrounding region. It is temporarily closed until sometime in 2026, so check locally before planning a visit. }} * {{see | image= | name=Popular Culture Museum | alt=Muzeu i Kulturës Popullore | url= | email= | address=Kavaje village, Rruga Skuraj | lat=41.180 | long=19.5549 | directions=S 18 km | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small local museum connected with traditional culture and daily life in the Durrës region. It may be useful for visitors interested in rural customs, folk objects and local heritage, but opening times should be checked locally. }} * {{see | name=World War II Relics Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3189417553968 | long=19.444248967878107 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small collection or hall connected with World War II memory in Durrës. Verify access and opening times locally, as information may be limited. }} * {{see | image= | name=Koloseo Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Gallery showcasing work by local painters and artists. Useful for visitors who want to see contemporary visual art in Durrës beyond the archaeological and historic sights. }} ===Ancient and medieval monuments=== [[File:Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg|thumb|Durrës, Roman Amphitheater]] * {{see | name=Durrës Amphitheatre | alt=Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kalase | lat=41.312222 | long=19.444867 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | wikipedia=Durrës Amphitheatre | image=Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg | wikidata=Q779868 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The largest Roman amphitheatre in the Balkans and the best-known ancient monument in Durrës. It includes restored iconography, underground passages below the seating area and a central grassy arena. It is one of the most important places for understanding the Roman layer of ancient Dyrrhachium. }} * {{see | name=Durrës Ancient City Wall | alt=Kalaja e Durrësit, Byzantine and Venetian walls | url= | email= | address=Rruga Sotir Noka | lat=41.3126 | long=19.4441 | directions=Next to the Amphitheater | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Surviving sections of the ancient and medieval walls of Durrës, close to the amphitheatre and old city centre. Around the walls are other historic features, including the Medieval Hammam and the Tophane Well. }} * {{see | name=Venetian Tower | alt=Rotonda, Kalaja | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3097 | long=19.4469 | directions=Near the old city walls and central promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | image=Durrës Albania 1.jpg | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=Circular defensive tower in the city centre, built in the 16th century and associated with the Venetian fortifications of Durrës. Visitors can climb steep stairs to the top and see a multimedia presentation projected inside the dome. }} * {{see | image= | name=Shen Mehilli Hill | alt=Kodra e Shen Mehillit, Saint Michael Hill, Basilica of Saint Michael | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës, near Arapaj | phone= | hours=Open archaeological area; check access locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Hill and archaeological area associated with the early Christian Basilica of Saint Michael, a 5th- or 6th-century site with mosaic remains. The area is also linked with the 1081 battle between Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos and Norman leader Robert Guiscard. }} * {{see | name=Byzantine Forum | alt=Macellum | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31503961305186 | long=19.44581838485815 | directions=Near the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public archaeological area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 5th century AD, the Byzantine Forum, also known as the Macellum, preserves remains of the ancient public space of the city. Public baths are around and beneath the Alexander Moissi Palace of Culture area. }} ===Historic residences and villas=== [[File:Villa e Zogut.jpg|thumb|King Zog's Villa]] * {{see | name=King Zog's Villa | alt=Vila e Zogut, Royal Villa of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kont Urani | lat=41.314724 | long=19.438698 | directions=On top of a hill overlooking the city | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually closed or irregular access; check locally before visiting | price= | wikipedia=Royal Villa of Durrës | image=Palace of king Zog durres.jpg | wikidata=Q13530086 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Former royal summer residence of King Zog, completed in 1937. It stands on a hill above Durrës and is known for its views over the bay, Italian Rationalist architecture and role in Albania's royal and 20th-century political history. The building has been damaged and interior access may be restricted, but the walk up is worthwhile for the façade and panorama. }} * {{see | image= | name=Aleksandër Moisiu House-Museum | alt=Shtepia Muze Aleksandër Moisiu, Alexander Moissi Museum House | url=https://akt.gov.al/en/atraksionet/shtepia-muze-aleksander-moisiu/ | email= | address=Rruga Kolonel Tomson, Durrës | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4460 | directions=In the historic centre, near the amphitheatre and Byzantine walls | phone=+355 52 223 150 | hours=Usually M-F 08:00-15:00; check before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Rare surviving 19th-century urban house in Durrës, associated with actor Aleksandër Moisiu. It has functioned as a house-museum and ethnographic museum, with displays on local daily life, folk clothing, household objects and Moisiu's life and career. }} * {{see | name=Old Doors Trail | alt=Path of Doors, Shtegu i Dyerve të Vjetra | url=https://www.muzehlab.org.al/old-doors-trail-in-durres/ | email=muzehlab@gmail.com | address=Old city centre, Durrës | lat=41.3123 | long=19.4462 | directions=Self-guided walking route through old Durrës | phone=+355 67 613 3262 | tollfree= | hours=Self-guided; contact MuZEH Lab for guided visits | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Heritage walking route through old Durrës focused on historic doors, family houses, courtyards and urban memory. Stops include old family houses and historic residences such as Villa Tedeschini, as well as streets around the older parts of the city. }} ===Civic buildings and other landmarks=== * {{see | name=Municipality | alt=Bashkia | url=http://www.Durrës.gov.al | email= | address=Sheshi Liria, 15 | lat=41.3127 | long=19.4463 | directions=On the main central square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Exterior view only unless visiting municipal offices | price=Free | image=Rathaus von Durres.jpg | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Municipal building on Sheshi Liria, one of the main civic spaces of central Durrës. It is useful as a landmark when navigating between the mosque, amphitheatre, Venetian Tower and old city streets. }} * {{see | image= | name=Kavaja Rock | alt=Shkembi i Kavajes | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.2779 | long=19.5192 | directions=SE 5 km, near Golem | phone= | hours=Open public landmark | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic landmark in Golem where caravans once passed along the ancient Via Egnatia. It is traditionally linked with a battle between Pompey and Julius Caesar and is also a useful coastal landmark south of Durrës. }} ===Old villages and rural heritage=== * {{see | name=Arapaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area; archaeological access may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village southeast of Durrës known for the nearby Basilica of Saint Michael and early Christian mosaic remains. It is useful for visitors interested in the rural edge of ancient Durrës and archaeological sites outside the city centre. }} * {{see | name=Shetaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shetaj, Durrës County | lat=41.567 | long=19.496 | directions=North of Durrës, on the way toward Cape of Rodon | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village in the northern coastal hinterland of Durrës County, useful as a base or stop when visiting Cape of Rodon, Rodoni Castle and nearby rural landscapes. It is better for visitors with a car. }} ===Natural and coastal landmarks=== * {{see | name=Lalzit Bay Area | alt=Gjiri i Lalëzit, Lalëz Bay | url=https://m.facebook.com/GjiriILazit/ | email= | address= | lat=41.4525 | long=19.4876 | directions=N 27 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open coastal area | price=Free; beach facilities may charge in season | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Long sandy bay north of Durrës, known for quieter beach areas, pine-backed coastline and access to Ishem Castle and Rrushkull Nature Reserve. It is best reached by car and is popular for beach stays outside central Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Rrushkull Nature Reserve | alt=Rezervati Rrushkull | url= | email= | address=Rrushkull, Durrës County | lat=41.435 | long=19.515 | directions=North of Durrës, near Lalzit Bay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open natural area; access conditions may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Coastal wetland and nature reserve near Lalzit Bay. It is mainly useful for visitors interested in quiet landscapes, birdlife, lagoons, dunes and natural areas outside the city. }} ===Further afield=== [[File:View of Lezhë.jpg|thumb|Lezhe]] * {{see | name=Rodoni Castle | alt=Kalaja e Rodonit | url= | email= | address=Cape of Rodon | lat=41.585982 | long=19.447504 | directions=Cape of Rodon, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check road and access conditions | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Ruined coastal castle at Cape of Rodon, traditionally associated with Skanderbeg. The site combines history, sea views, coastal walking and nearby religious heritage, and is best reached by car from Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Scanderbeg Castle | alt=Sebastia's Castle, Kalaja e Skënderbeut | url= | email= | address=Rruga e Sebastes, Laç village | lat=41.628339 | long=19.726932 | directions=N 33 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic castle site near Laç village. It is outside Durrës city and works best as a further-afield excursion for travellers exploring northern coastal and inland heritage sites. }} * {{see | name=Shen Ndout Church | alt=Kisha e Shna Ndout, Church of Saint Anthony | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kisha e Shna Ndout, Laç | lat=41.62898 | long=19.733149 | directions=Near Laç, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Active religious site; check pilgrimage and service times | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Important Catholic pilgrimage church near Laç. It is outside the city but can be combined with other northern excursions from Durrës, especially for visitors interested in religious sites and Albanian pilgrimage traditions. }} == Learn == * The '''Museum of Martyrs and Hall of War Relics''' on Rruga Aleksander Goga has a sizable public library on the second floor, with books in many European languages. The focus is definitely more on kids books than not, but it's still a good resource for anyone who needs to do some research or just stay entertained. As of 2025, the hours were 08:00-16:00. ==Do== * {{do | name=Culture Palace | alt= | url= | email=| address=Bulevardi Dyrrah | lat=41.3144 | long=19.4465| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Events }} * {{do | name=Evening walk | address= | lat= | long= | directions= promenade | content=Go for an evening walk along the sea front promenade or along the beach. }} * {{do | name=Villa Hill | alt=Kodra e Viles | url= | email=| address=Rruga Currila | lat=41.318185 | long=19.433438| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Panoramic view of Durrës seaside at Currilat from top of a newly reclaimed hill. }} * {{do | name=Seaside Large Steps | alt=Shkallet tek Brryli | url= | email=| address=Intersection between Rruga Currila and Rruga Taulantia| lat=41.310852 | long=19.435305| directions=Brryli area| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Sit and admire the sea from up close on these large steps descending into the water}} [[File:Stadiumi Niko Dovana.jpg|thumb|right|Stadium Niko Dovana]] * '''Football:''' [https://www.kfteuta.com/ KF Teuta]{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} play football in Kategoria Superiore, the country's top tier. Their home ground is Niko Dovana Stadium, capacity 12,000, one km north of the ferry port. ===Beaches=== [[File:Durres in summer.JPG|thumb|City beach]] * {{do | name=Lalzit Bay Beach | alt=Gjiri i Lalzit | url= | email= | address=near Hamallaj village | lat=41.3968 | long=19.4214 | directions=25 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular weekend retreat and exclusive wealthy beach area. A small resort can be found here. }} * {{do | name=Portez Beach | alt=Plazhi Portez | url= | email= | address=Bishti Palles | lat=41.4001 | long=19.404 | directions=13 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Durres in summer.JPG | content=Nice beach, bar, and wooden bungalows north of Currilat }} * {{do | name=Golem beach | alt=Plazhi Golemit/Mali i Robit | url= | email= | address=Golem, Mali Robit, Kavaja Rock (Shkembi i Kavajes) | lat=41.2509 | long=19.5194 | directions=follow SH4 and enter secondary road at Plepat roundabout (SH56, SH85) or continue along SH4 and exit at Golem/Mali Robit exit | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-05 | content=This is the main seaside resort south of Durrës with long sandy beaches popular with both Albanians and foreigners. Tirana inhabitants have their beach houses and villas in the area for weekend and summer retreats. }} ===Diving=== * {{do | name=Sea Resort of Golem|alt= |url=https://diammaresort.al/en/ |email=| address=Diamma Resort, Rruga Kompleksit|lat=41.266001| long=19.519762| directions=S 7 km| phone=+355 69 666 1555 |hours= | price=| content=Take a dip in the Adriatic Sea water in the biggest sea side resort of Golem. }} === Events === * {{listing | name=Durrës International Biennale of Contemporary Art | alt=DIBoCA | url=https://durresbiennale.org/en/home | email=durresbiennale@gmail.com | address=Lagja 12, Rruga Abaz Çelkupa, Durrës | lat=41.318463 | long=19.452563 | directions=Near the city centre | phone=+355 69 472 7490 | tollfree= | hours=Biennial; check the official website for current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Biennial contemporary art exhibition supported by the Municipality of Durrës. It brings Albanian and international artists to the city through exhibitions, workshops, talks, and contemporary visual art projects. }} * {{listing | name=International Music Festival of Chamber Music | alt=Chamber Fest Durrës | url=https://www.chamberfestdurres.com/ | email= | address=Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral, Durrës | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=In the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the current programme | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Annual chamber music festival held in Durrës since 2006. It brings Albanian and international instrumentalists together for classical concerts, often in historic venues such as Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Durrës | alt=International Music Festival Festival Days in Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/ | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Performances are usually held in public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in early July; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music, folklore, and dance festival with parades, stage performances, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups from different countries. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Fest | alt=International Festival Durrës Fest | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/festivals/1108-5410-international-festival-durres-fest-summer | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central public spaces and performance venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folk, music, and dance festival focused on cultural exchange. Groups from different countries perform traditional and modern dances, choral music, orchestral music, and majorette programmes. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Albania | alt=International Folklore Festival Durrës | url=https://mioff.org/booking/xxix-festival-days-in-albania/ | email=office@mioff.org | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central performance areas and nearby hotels | phone=+389 78 700 619 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late June; check current dates before travelling | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folklore festival for folk groups, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups. The programme usually includes parades, performances, and optional sightseeing around Durrës. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Sunset | alt=International Music and Folk-Dance Festival Durrës Sunset | url=https://festival-association.eu/fest/688 | email=info@festival-association.eu | address=Durrës beach area | lat=41.289722 | long=19.513333 | directions=Usually based around beach hotels and public performance spaces | phone=+389 71 376 151 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music and folk-dance festival for children's, youth, and adult ensembles. The programme usually includes a city parade, public performances, a gala evening, and sightseeing. }} * {{listing | name=Dances in Durrës | alt=International Festival Dancing in Durrës | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/news/2025-11-10-international-festival-dances-in-durres-brings-cultures-together-from-around-the-world-in | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International dance and folklore festival with parades, evening performances, cultural walks, and music groups from different countries. It is aimed at dance ensembles, choirs, folklore groups, and modern dance groups. }} * {{listing | name=Summer Stars of Durrës | alt=International Competition and Festival of Arts Summer Stars of Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/en/festivals/1153-4768-international-competition-and-festival-of-arts-summer-stars-of-durres | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Check the organiser's current venue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in August 2024 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International arts competition and festival for soloists, ensembles, and young performers. It includes dance, choral, orchestral, modern, pop, jazz, hip-hop, and majorette categories. Confirm current editions before planning a visit. }} * {{listing | name=Roots of Durrës | alt=Roots of Durrës: Folk Traditions Festival | url=https://www.wofafestivals.com/news/roots-of-durres-folk-traditions-festival-2025/ | email=info@wofafestivals.com | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone=+389 75 491 218 | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in June 2025 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Folk traditions festival that has brought international folklore ensembles to perform in Durrës, including at the ancient amphitheatre. Confirm whether a current edition is scheduled before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Festa e Ullirit | alt=Olive Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually held around central cultural venues | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late October; check local announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Local festival celebrating the olive harvest and Durrës' connection with olive cultivation. It usually includes music, performances, local traditions, and honours for notable citizens. }} * {{listing | name=Art Explora Festival | alt= | url=https://www.artexplora.org/en/festival/city/durres | email= | address=Port of Durrës, Durrës | lat=41.308330 | long=19.454170 | directions=At the port quay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Occasional travelling festival; held in Durrës in April 2025 | price=Free admission or reservation-based depending on activity | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Travelling Mediterranean cultural festival with a museum boat, exhibitions, immersive experiences, talks, performances, workshops, concerts, and film screenings. It visited Durrës in 2025, but future stops should be confirmed from the official programme. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës International Film Summerfest | alt=Durrës International Film Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Historical event; check local cultural announcements for any revival | price= | wikidata=Q18351819 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International film festival founded in 2008 and historically held in Durrës, including at the amphitheatre and other cultural venues. Recent regular editions could not be confirmed, so do not rely on old official websites. }} * {{listing | name=Vox Baroque | alt=International Baroque Music Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Venues may vary; past performances have used heritage sites | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; check current announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Early music festival focused on Baroque repertoire and historical instruments. It has included Durrës among its Albanian heritage destinations, but current local dates should be verified before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Balkans Joint Conference and Exhibition | alt= | url=https://balkansjointconference.org/ | email= | address=Grand Blue Fafa Resort, Durrës | lat=41.269722 | long=19.519444 | directions=South of central Durrës, near the beach resort area | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually announced by edition; check the official conference website | price=Registration required | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Regional professional conference and technical exhibition for the water supply and wastewater sector. It brings together utilities, experts, companies, and public institutions from the Balkans. }} ==Buy== * Kokomani Wine— Albanian wine produced by Kokomani Winery, known for red and white wines made from local and international grape varieties. Bottles of wine and homemade raki are commonly sold in wine shops, supermarkets and souvenir stores in Durrës, and are popular gifts for visitors. * Souvenirs— Tourist souvenirs sold throughout Durrës include magnets, postcards, Albanian flag items, handmade jewellery, miniature amphora decorations and locally crafted gifts inspired by the city’s Roman and coastal heritage. * Sea Souvenirs— Shops near the beach sell seashell decorations, handmade marine crafts, beach-themed ornaments and Adriatic-inspired gifts commonly bought by summer tourists. * Household goods — Local markets and small stores offer practical household products, kitchenware, textiles and handmade wooden items used in traditional Albanian homes. * Traditional Albanian products— Traditional Albanian products available in Durrës include olive oil, mountain tea, local honey, dried herbs, filigree crafts, handmade carpets and bottles of raki produced in different regions of Albania. Many are sold in souvenir shops and artisan markets around the city. ==Eat== ===Budget=== ====In the city centre==== * {{eat | name=SAF - Gatime tradicionale | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31929 | long=19.45303 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-15:00 | price=200-500 lek | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Very traditional lunch menu. Every day they will have cooked something new and fresh. Prices are more than decent and food is delicious. }} * {{eat | name=Sema | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/SEMARestaurantDurrës/ | email= | address= | lat=41.313309 | long=19.446844 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa. Make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at round about take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia; bear right onto street H.Troplini. Turn right to stay on street H.Troplini; keep straight onto road; arrive on the right; there is Sema restaurant. | phone=+355 672033224 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:59 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rehat Kebab | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3144571 | long= 19.4471379 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Around the Ventus Harbour pier==== * {{eat | name=Mema House | alt= | url= | email=memahouse@hotmail.com | address=Taulantia Street | lat=41.310814 | long=19.441229 | directions=head east on Adria Street toward J.Ballhysa Street; make a U-turn to stay on Adria Street; at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Egnatia Promenade; at the next roundabout, take the 1st exit and bear right onto Taulantia Promenade | phone=+355 697541068 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Piceri Belvedere | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia | lat=41.3108788 | long=19.4374212 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Near the city centre==== * {{eat | name=Piceri 2 Engjejt | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Hysen Myshketa | lat=41.3221725 | long=19.4474410 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Pizza}} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Bar Restorant Kajser | alt= | url= | email=| address= | lat= | long= | directions=near King Zog's Villa| phone=| hours= | price= Delicious ice cream combinations including baked ice cream (400 lek), spaghetti, fish and baked lamb| content=it offers a panoramic view of Durrës from above. }} * {{eat | name=Splendid Restorant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Egnatia | lat=41.309062 | long=19.445899 | directions=from street Adria, toward street Adria; at roundabout 1st exit onto promenade Egnatia; arrive at promenade Egnatia on the left, you can find Splendid restaurant | phone=+355 692824222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Especially known locally for fish. Everything is fresh, tasty and served in the most professional way. Prices are slightly more than average for Albania, but for the whole experience of eating you get there it's worth every cent. }} * {{eat | name=Neps | alt= | url=https://www.instagram.com/neps.Durrës/ | email= | address= | lat= 41.3140238 | long=19.4338833 | directions=from Durrës railway station, take street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria; at the roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia. At roundabout, take the 1st exit; bear right onto promenade Taulantia; the road name changes to street of Currila and there you can find Neps restaurant | phone=+355 694609111 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Restaurant in industrial style near the sea. }} * {{eat | name=Pastiçeri Pelikani 1 | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Pavaresia | lat= | long= | directions=near Hotel Adriatic | phone=+355 683095270 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=You can eat different sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Rooftop XV | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/fly.restaurant.Durrës/ | email=fly.Durrës@gmail.com | address=Street Erazmi | lat=41.310318 | long=19.448046 | directions= | phone=+355 684058103 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This restaurant has a breathtaking view from the 15th/top floor. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Tirona | alt= | url= | email= | address=SH4, Rruga Pavaresia, Durrës 2001 | lat=41.315426 | long=19.470471 | directions= | phone=+355 682010358 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-20 | content=A local's favourite, Restaurant Tirona in Durrës, it has a great selection of fresh sea-food at very affordable prices. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Restorant Piazza |alt=Restorant Piazza|url=http://www.restorantpiazza.com| email= |address=Rruga Taulantia 1| lat=41.30889 |long=19.4464 |directions=near the port|phone=+355 52 237601 |hours=08:00-23:00| price=| lastedit=2022-05-01 |content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Venetian Tower (Rotonda) bar|alt= |url= |email=| address=| lat= |long= | directions=on top of the Venetian Tower| phone=|hours= |price=|content=It offers a nice view of Durrës and its coastline. }} * {{drink | name=788 cocktail bar Durrës | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/788.CocktailBar | email=kokaemilian@hotmail.com | address= | lat=41.311132 | long=19.446449 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay street Adria at aroundabout, take 2nd onto promenade Egnatia; bear right, and then be right onto street H.Troplini; turn left onto street Dok Margariti; turn right onto street De Rada and then immediately turn right onto street Epidamni; turn left onto street Mosque | phone=+355 692121788 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=Nice music, great cocktails and that seaside summer breeze. During winter instead, live music, different events and local activities. ''(Tower is under construction as of 2022-05-08.)'' }} * {{drink | name=Bonsai Caffe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Bonsai-Caff%C3%A9/100010089723822 | email=ninikoka7@gmail.com | address= | lat= 41.3186186 | long=19.4462547 | directions=from Durrës railway station, go right street Adria, continuing with Martyrs street; welded with Kerol Bar | phone=+355 674999111 | tollfree= |fax=| hours=07:00-23:00 | price= |wikidata=| lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=A nice selection of drinks and a very welcoming environment. }} * {{drink | name=Portiku Wine Bar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pg/portikuwinebar/about/?entry_point=page_nav_about_item&tab=page_info | email= | address= | lat=41.309926 | long=19.447359 | directions=from railway station, depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia there at roundabout take 1st exit. Turn right at street Epidamni | phone=+355 686080666 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 09:00-23:30, Th 09:00-23:00, F 09:00-23:45, Sa Su 09:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Arragosta Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.aragosta.al/sq/ | email=reservation@arragosta.al | address=Neighborhood 1, street Taulantia, Currila | lat=41.318272 | long=19.45344 | directions= | phone=+355 52 226 477 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content=4-star beachfront hotel in the Currila area offering modern rooms, a private beach area and an on-site seafood restaurant. Popular for sea views and its location near the promenade and historic center. Traditional Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine available. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Adriatik | alt= | url=http://www.adriatikhotel.com/ | email=info@adriatikhotel.com | address=Lagjia 13, Rruga Pavaresia, Plazh Durrës | lat=41.3053 | long=19.4917 | directions=near the beach | phone=+355 52 260850 | tollfree= | fax=+355 52 260855 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from €100 (April 2026) |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Historic five-star seaside hotel located in the Plazh area of Durrës. Features a private beach, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, spa facilities, conference areas and several restaurants and bars. Popular with business travelers and summer tourists. }} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Arvi|alt=|url=http://hotelarvi.com|email=|address=Rruga Taulantia 16| lat=41.3105| long=19.4433|directions=Center|phone=+355 52 230403|price=Single from €60 (2014.jun)|checkin=12:00-22:00|checkout=07:00-11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Central waterfront hotel near the city promenade and archaeological sites. Offers sea-view rooms, restaurant facilities and easy access to cafés and nightlife in the center of Durrës. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Lido Durrës | alt= | url=https://katestravelexperience.eu/lido-albania | email= | address=Lagja.2; Rruga Aleksander Goga | lat=41.31511 | long=19.44525 | directions= | phone=+355 52 227941 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from around €50 |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Mid-range city hotel located near the center and port area. Offers comfortable rooms, breakfast service and convenient access to shops, restaurants and public transport. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Nais|url=https://hotelnais.com/ |email= |address=Lagia 1, Rruga Naim Frasheri nr.46|lat=41.3107 |long=19.4466| directions=from the port: 100 meters toward the town center; left on Naim Frasheri street, behind the tower |phone=| hours= | price=Double rooms from around €40| checkin= | checkout=11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Three-star hotel located close to the port and town center, within walking distance of the main promenade. Known for quiet rooms and included breakfast despite its central location.}} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Pepeto|url=http://hotelpepeto.webs.com/|email=|address=Mbreti MONUM Nr.3, Rruga Ramazan Jella|lat=41.3136|long=19.4473|directions=|phone=+355 52 224190|price= |checkin=|checkout=|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Small boutique-style hotel in the historic center near the Venetian Tower and archaeological attractions. Offers modern rooms and easy access to restaurants and cafés around the old town. }} * {{sleep | name=Premium Hotel Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Golem Long Beach 2504 | lat=41.259048 | long=19.447398 | directions= | phone=+355 676041008 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-05 | content=Modern beachfront hotel in the Golem area south of Durrës. Features restaurants, bars and evening entertainment including live DJs during the summer season. Popular with beach holiday visitors. }} * {{sleep | name=Crowne Plazza Durres | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/gb/en/durres/tiaab/hoteldetail?cm_mmc=YextLocal-_-CP-_-AL-_-TIAAB | email= | address= | lat=41.3087 | long=19.4458 | directions=Central, promenade | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-01 | content=5 Star experience on the waterfront, promenade. Newly opened in 2026. Luxury waterfront hotel on the central promenade offering modern rooms, sea views, upscale dining and five-star facilities. Located close to beaches, nightlife and the city center. }} == Connect == 5G available now (2026). As of Sep 2021, Vodafone has the best coverage, with 4G in Durrës, the other main towns, and highways between. One and ALB have 4G in Durrës but less coverage elsewhere. 5G has not been rolled out in Albania. == Go next == * [[Tirana]] the capital is ringed by trees and mountains. Mount Dajt has great views of the city. * [[Kruje]] in the hills above Tirana has museums and an old castle. * [[Lezhe]] has Skanderbeg's Tomb, panoramic Lezhe Castle and several renovated churches * [[Fier]] is a lively seaside city, near the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia. * Fushë-Krujë its near with Durrës {{geo|41.323|19.441}} {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Coastal Albania}} {{related|Ferries_in_the_Mediterranean}} 5x9p58y1ik5cxjdit3q7eev8nji1x9d 5288847 5288845 2026-06-06T13:18:13Z ~2026-25168-20 2396992 /* Learn */ 5288847 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Durrës banner.jpg|caption=Roman circus panorama}} '''Durrës''' is [[Albania|Albania's]] chief port. Located on the shores of the Adriatic, Durrës is a lively town, organized around beach culture. ==Understand== In parts Durrës is attractive and well maintained. In others it is somewhat ramshackle, with both active and what appears to be abandoned development co-existing next to each other. To some degree, this is a feature of Durres geology. The area is in a tectonically active zone, with extremely unstable geology. The next earthquake will cause the ground to undergo liquefaction again, and much of the new development will have to be pruned back once more, before regrowing. Still, the city is alive. There are abundant shops, retail stalls and street traders. They appear to trade from early morning until late and provide an attractive "always on" vibe to the city. It has ferries to [[Bari]] and Ancona in ([[Italy]]) and bus connections to other Albanian and international destinations, often via Tirana. Alternative spellings of the city's name are ''Durazzo'' (Italian), ''Drač'' (Драч, Serbo-Croatian) or ''Dyrrhachion'' (Δυρράχιον, Greek). ==Get in== ===By boat=== [[File:Durrës Albania.jpg|thumb|Durrës panoramic view]] * {{go | name=Ferry Terminal | alt=Terminali i Trageteve | url=https://www.Durrësport.al/ | email= | address= | lat=41.31587 | long=19.45447 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q100343249 | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content= }} From specific destinations: * [[Bari]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [https://www.gnv.it/en , GNV Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Ventouris [https://ventourisferries.com/en/ Ferries] * [[Ancona]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} * [[Trieste]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries] ===By bus=== If arriving to Durres by bus, make sure that you get off ''before'' the bus turns onto the highway going south towards Golem. The highway is very difficult to turn around on, and if you end up significantly south of Durres proper, it will be very difficult to find a taxi that can take you back into Durres, and it'll cost a fortune. Remember, ride share apps do not work in Albania as of 2025. * {{go | name=Bus Terminal | alt=Stacioni I Autobuzave | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31783 | long=19.45375 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content=Buses and furgons from Tirana usually arrive at this bus terminal with the "Durrës" logo on the outside near the old railway station. There are also some international connections and a direct airport bus. }} * {{go | name=Plepat Bus Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.29226 | long=19.50961 | directions=At the southern end of the promenade/beach. Take a local bus from the City Bus Terminal to get here. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=This is the bus station where buses from Tirana and most southern destinations, like [[Berat]] (450 lek), will stop to drop off passengers. Most buses will not head into the centre of Durrës. This is the only place with regular connections heading south. }} From specific destinations: * [[Tirana]] – The buses depart from the Northern Bus Station in Tirana near the Casa Italia shopping center. The ride takes around 45 min and costs 180 lek (Dec 2024). The bus operates daily every 30 min from 06:30 to 19:30. * [[Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza]] – The buses all depart south of the airport terminal. It should go every 1–2 hr. Price (Dec 2024): 600 lek. * [[Skopje]] (North Macedonia) – Buses run through Durrës on their way to Tirana. A typical Skopje-Tirana ticket costs around €25 return. * [[Kumanovo]] (North Macedonia) – There is a daily direct bus line to Durrës. The cost of tickets is around €20. * [[Pristina]] (Kosovo) – During the summer season there are several buses a day. You should check the timetables at the Pristina bus station, but in 2013 the timetable was as follows; 04:00, 05:00, 06:00 and 06:30 and then at 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00 and 23:00. There are at least a couple of buses going back at 16:00 and 17:00. Return ticket costs about €20. The trip takes around 4–5½ hr, depending on whether it goes via Prizren. Buses ran by Artiti Tours depart and arrive from the {{marker|type=go|name=Rrota e Kuqe stop|lat=41.3104760|long=19.4850781}} by a roundabout near the middle of Rruga Pavaresia street running parallel, and very close, to the beach. Tickets can be booked online at [https://travel.gjirafa.com Gjirafa] or [https://www.autobus.al/en/ Autobus.al]. The bus stop can be reached on foot in about ½ hr from the city centre. Alternatively, take a taxi (about €8) or use a bus running along Rruga Pavaresia from the city centre. ===By car=== There is a road between here and [[Tirana]], the SH2, which takes just over half an hour for the journey. You could [[Tirana#By plane|fly into]] Tirana, then drive or get a taxi to Durrës, with the airport connecting to the SH2 by the SH60. Also from Vorë and Shijak from main roads and highways. ===By commuter train=== Construction is underway for 2027, from Triana to Durres, and the Airport. ==Get around== {{mapframe|41.313| 19.442|zoom=15|layer=W}} === On foot === The city centre where the archaeological sites are located can be toured on foot. Durrës is a relatively compact city, so many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center and along the waterfront. If you're open to a longer walk, it's easy to get all the way to South Durres from the city core, and even further south than that, until you reach a part of the beach that's owned by the Albanian military and impassable. === By bus === Durrës has a public bus system that connects various parts of the city. Public buses are orange. You can purchase tickets from kiosks or directly from the bus driver or a controller who goes around the bus to sell & check tickets. Bus schedules may vary, so it is a good idea to check in advance. ==== Getting to the beach area of the city ==== Once you arrive at the Durrës bus station, there is a small Bus traffic sign with many people. From there you can take a bus with the sign Durazzo (or Durrës) Plepa. The bus stops at several designated stops along the Rruga Paveresia boulevard, i.e. along the beach (40 lek as of 2024). === By taxi === Many taxis are available in Durrës, and they are a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling to destinations not easily accessible by bus. You can find them parked everywhere on the streets with a taxi symbol on the top of their car. Make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver or demand to go with meter before starting your journey or you will definitely be overcharged. ==See== Durrës has layers of Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, royal Albanian, communist-era and modern history. The main sights are concentrated around the old city centre, with several important coastal and religious sites further afield. ===Religious sites=== ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Shen Lucia Catholic Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Luçia, Saint Lucia Catholic Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Don Nikoll Kacorri | lat= | long= | directions=In the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1907, this is one of the main Catholic churches in Durrës. It has simple Western-style architecture combined with local Albanian elements and remains an important place for Catholic worship, community gatherings, Christmas, Easter and other religious celebrations. }} * {{see | name=Shen Gjergji Orthodox Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Gjergjit, Saint George Orthodox Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Vath Turja | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 19th century and closely connected to the Orthodox Christian community of Durrës. The building contains Byzantine architectural features, including traditional domes and icons. Inside, visitors can see religious paintings and decorative iconography, making it useful both for worshippers and for travellers interested in the city’s religious history. }} * {{see | name=Saint Asti and Saint Paul Orthodox Church | alt=Katedralja Ortodokse e Shën Palit dhe Shën Asti | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4488 | directions=Near the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:30 - 20:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=The main Orthodox cathedral of Durrës. Built in 2001 after the revival of religious life in Albania following communism, it is considered one of the largest modern Orthodox churches in the country. It has a large central dome, Byzantine-style frescoes and is named after Saint Paul and Saint Asti, the first Christian martyr associated with Durrës. It is used for major religious ceremonies and official Orthodox Church events. }} ====Mosques==== * {{see | name=Fatih Mosque | alt=Xhamia Fatih | url= | email= | address=Rruga Xhamia, close to the historical centre and the Roman Amphitheatre | lat=41.311102 | long=19.445970 | directions=Near the Roman Amphitheatre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally; avoid prayer times if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Fatih Mosque, Durrës | image=Xhamia e Fatihut.jpg | wikidata=Q1398072 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1503 during the Ottoman period and named after Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, known as Fatih. It is one of the oldest mosques in Albania. The mosque has suffered damage from earthquakes and wars but has been restored several times, and its minaret and design represent classical Ottoman religious architecture. }} * {{see | name=Great Mosque of Durrës | alt=Xhamia e Madhe e Durrësit, New Mosque, Grand Mosque | url= | email= | address=Rruga Aleksander Goga, Durrës | lat=41.313297 | long=19.445461 | directions=City centre, near Sheshi Liria | phone= | tollfree= | hours=06:00-09:30; visitors should avoid the busy Friday midday prayer if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Great Mosque of Durrës | image=Great Mosque in Durrës.JPG | wikidata=Q18888007 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Known locally as the Great Mosque. Built in 1937, it is sometimes called the New Mosque because it was constructed later than the older Ottoman mosques. It is one of the main Islamic religious centres in the city, with a large prayer hall and modern Islamic architecture. During Islamic holidays such as Eid, it becomes an important gathering place for worshippers. }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Archaeological Museum | alt=Muzeu Arkeologjik | url=https://m.facebook.com/muzeuarkeologjikDurrës/ | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia 32 | lat=41.311389 | long=19.440278 | directions=Near the seafront promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Temporarily closed until sometime in 2026 | price= | wikipedia=Durrës Archaeological Museum | wikidata=Q5316767 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The main archaeological museum of Durrës, normally focused on finds from ancient Dyrrhachium and the surrounding region. It is temporarily closed until sometime in 2026, so check locally before planning a visit. }} * {{see | image= | name=Popular Culture Museum | alt=Muzeu i Kulturës Popullore | url= | email= | address=Kavaje village, Rruga Skuraj | lat=41.180 | long=19.5549 | directions=S 18 km | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small local museum connected with traditional culture and daily life in the Durrës region. It may be useful for visitors interested in rural customs, folk objects and local heritage, but opening times should be checked locally. }} * {{see | name=World War II Relics Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3189417553968 | long=19.444248967878107 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small collection or hall connected with World War II memory in Durrës. Verify access and opening times locally, as information may be limited. }} * {{see | image= | name=Koloseo Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Gallery showcasing work by local painters and artists. Useful for visitors who want to see contemporary visual art in Durrës beyond the archaeological and historic sights. }} ===Ancient and medieval monuments=== [[File:Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg|thumb|Durrës, Roman Amphitheater]] * {{see | name=Durrës Amphitheatre | alt=Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kalase | lat=41.312222 | long=19.444867 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | wikipedia=Durrës Amphitheatre | image=Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg | wikidata=Q779868 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The largest Roman amphitheatre in the Balkans and the best-known ancient monument in Durrës. It includes restored iconography, underground passages below the seating area and a central grassy arena. It is one of the most important places for understanding the Roman layer of ancient Dyrrhachium. }} * {{see | name=Durrës Ancient City Wall | alt=Kalaja e Durrësit, Byzantine and Venetian walls | url= | email= | address=Rruga Sotir Noka | lat=41.3126 | long=19.4441 | directions=Next to the Amphitheater | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Surviving sections of the ancient and medieval walls of Durrës, close to the amphitheatre and old city centre. Around the walls are other historic features, including the Medieval Hammam and the Tophane Well. }} * {{see | name=Venetian Tower | alt=Rotonda, Kalaja | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3097 | long=19.4469 | directions=Near the old city walls and central promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | image=Durrës Albania 1.jpg | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=Circular defensive tower in the city centre, built in the 16th century and associated with the Venetian fortifications of Durrës. Visitors can climb steep stairs to the top and see a multimedia presentation projected inside the dome. }} * {{see | image= | name=Shen Mehilli Hill | alt=Kodra e Shen Mehillit, Saint Michael Hill, Basilica of Saint Michael | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës, near Arapaj | phone= | hours=Open archaeological area; check access locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Hill and archaeological area associated with the early Christian Basilica of Saint Michael, a 5th- or 6th-century site with mosaic remains. The area is also linked with the 1081 battle between Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos and Norman leader Robert Guiscard. }} * {{see | name=Byzantine Forum | alt=Macellum | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31503961305186 | long=19.44581838485815 | directions=Near the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public archaeological area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 5th century AD, the Byzantine Forum, also known as the Macellum, preserves remains of the ancient public space of the city. Public baths are around and beneath the Alexander Moissi Palace of Culture area. }} ===Historic residences and villas=== [[File:Villa e Zogut.jpg|thumb|King Zog's Villa]] * {{see | name=King Zog's Villa | alt=Vila e Zogut, Royal Villa of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kont Urani | lat=41.314724 | long=19.438698 | directions=On top of a hill overlooking the city | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually closed or irregular access; check locally before visiting | price= | wikipedia=Royal Villa of Durrës | image=Palace of king Zog durres.jpg | wikidata=Q13530086 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Former royal summer residence of King Zog, completed in 1937. It stands on a hill above Durrës and is known for its views over the bay, Italian Rationalist architecture and role in Albania's royal and 20th-century political history. The building has been damaged and interior access may be restricted, but the walk up is worthwhile for the façade and panorama. }} * {{see | image= | name=Aleksandër Moisiu House-Museum | alt=Shtepia Muze Aleksandër Moisiu, Alexander Moissi Museum House | url=https://akt.gov.al/en/atraksionet/shtepia-muze-aleksander-moisiu/ | email= | address=Rruga Kolonel Tomson, Durrës | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4460 | directions=In the historic centre, near the amphitheatre and Byzantine walls | phone=+355 52 223 150 | hours=Usually M-F 08:00-15:00; check before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Rare surviving 19th-century urban house in Durrës, associated with actor Aleksandër Moisiu. It has functioned as a house-museum and ethnographic museum, with displays on local daily life, folk clothing, household objects and Moisiu's life and career. }} * {{see | name=Old Doors Trail | alt=Path of Doors, Shtegu i Dyerve të Vjetra | url=https://www.muzehlab.org.al/old-doors-trail-in-durres/ | email=muzehlab@gmail.com | address=Old city centre, Durrës | lat=41.3123 | long=19.4462 | directions=Self-guided walking route through old Durrës | phone=+355 67 613 3262 | tollfree= | hours=Self-guided; contact MuZEH Lab for guided visits | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Heritage walking route through old Durrës focused on historic doors, family houses, courtyards and urban memory. Stops include old family houses and historic residences such as Villa Tedeschini, as well as streets around the older parts of the city. }} ===Civic buildings and other landmarks=== * {{see | name=Municipality | alt=Bashkia | url=http://www.Durrës.gov.al | email= | address=Sheshi Liria, 15 | lat=41.3127 | long=19.4463 | directions=On the main central square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Exterior view only unless visiting municipal offices | price=Free | image=Rathaus von Durres.jpg | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Municipal building on Sheshi Liria, one of the main civic spaces of central Durrës. It is useful as a landmark when navigating between the mosque, amphitheatre, Venetian Tower and old city streets. }} * {{see | image= | name=Kavaja Rock | alt=Shkembi i Kavajes | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.2779 | long=19.5192 | directions=SE 5 km, near Golem | phone= | hours=Open public landmark | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic landmark in Golem where caravans once passed along the ancient Via Egnatia. It is traditionally linked with a battle between Pompey and Julius Caesar and is also a useful coastal landmark south of Durrës. }} ===Old villages and rural heritage=== * {{see | name=Arapaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area; archaeological access may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village southeast of Durrës known for the nearby Basilica of Saint Michael and early Christian mosaic remains. It is useful for visitors interested in the rural edge of ancient Durrës and archaeological sites outside the city centre. }} * {{see | name=Shetaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shetaj, Durrës County | lat=41.567 | long=19.496 | directions=North of Durrës, on the way toward Cape of Rodon | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village in the northern coastal hinterland of Durrës County, useful as a base or stop when visiting Cape of Rodon, Rodoni Castle and nearby rural landscapes. It is better for visitors with a car. }} ===Natural and coastal landmarks=== * {{see | name=Lalzit Bay Area | alt=Gjiri i Lalëzit, Lalëz Bay | url=https://m.facebook.com/GjiriILazit/ | email= | address= | lat=41.4525 | long=19.4876 | directions=N 27 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open coastal area | price=Free; beach facilities may charge in season | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Long sandy bay north of Durrës, known for quieter beach areas, pine-backed coastline and access to Ishem Castle and Rrushkull Nature Reserve. It is best reached by car and is popular for beach stays outside central Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Rrushkull Nature Reserve | alt=Rezervati Rrushkull | url= | email= | address=Rrushkull, Durrës County | lat=41.435 | long=19.515 | directions=North of Durrës, near Lalzit Bay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open natural area; access conditions may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Coastal wetland and nature reserve near Lalzit Bay. It is mainly useful for visitors interested in quiet landscapes, birdlife, lagoons, dunes and natural areas outside the city. }} ===Further afield=== [[File:View of Lezhë.jpg|thumb|Lezhe]] * {{see | name=Rodoni Castle | alt=Kalaja e Rodonit | url= | email= | address=Cape of Rodon | lat=41.585982 | long=19.447504 | directions=Cape of Rodon, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check road and access conditions | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Ruined coastal castle at Cape of Rodon, traditionally associated with Skanderbeg. The site combines history, sea views, coastal walking and nearby religious heritage, and is best reached by car from Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Scanderbeg Castle | alt=Sebastia's Castle, Kalaja e Skënderbeut | url= | email= | address=Rruga e Sebastes, Laç village | lat=41.628339 | long=19.726932 | directions=N 33 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic castle site near Laç village. It is outside Durrës city and works best as a further-afield excursion for travellers exploring northern coastal and inland heritage sites. }} * {{see | name=Shen Ndout Church | alt=Kisha e Shna Ndout, Church of Saint Anthony | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kisha e Shna Ndout, Laç | lat=41.62898 | long=19.733149 | directions=Near Laç, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Active religious site; check pilgrimage and service times | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Important Catholic pilgrimage church near Laç. It is outside the city but can be combined with other northern excursions from Durrës, especially for visitors interested in religious sites and Albanian pilgrimage traditions. }} == Learn == * The '''Museum of Martyrs and Hall of War Relics''' on Rruga Aleksander Goga has a sizable public library on the second floor, with books in many European languages. The focus is definitely more on children books than not, but it's still a good resource for anyone who needs to do some research or just stay entertained. As of 2025, the hours were 08:00-16:00. ==Do== * {{do | name=Culture Palace | alt= | url= | email=| address=Bulevardi Dyrrah | lat=41.3144 | long=19.4465| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Events }} * {{do | name=Evening walk | address= | lat= | long= | directions= promenade | content=Go for an evening walk along the sea front promenade or along the beach. }} * {{do | name=Villa Hill | alt=Kodra e Viles | url= | email=| address=Rruga Currila | lat=41.318185 | long=19.433438| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Panoramic view of Durrës seaside at Currilat from top of a newly reclaimed hill. }} * {{do | name=Seaside Large Steps | alt=Shkallet tek Brryli | url= | email=| address=Intersection between Rruga Currila and Rruga Taulantia| lat=41.310852 | long=19.435305| directions=Brryli area| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Sit and admire the sea from up close on these large steps descending into the water}} [[File:Stadiumi Niko Dovana.jpg|thumb|right|Stadium Niko Dovana]] * '''Football:''' [https://www.kfteuta.com/ KF Teuta]{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} play football in Kategoria Superiore, the country's top tier. Their home ground is Niko Dovana Stadium, capacity 12,000, one km north of the ferry port. ===Beaches=== [[File:Durres in summer.JPG|thumb|City beach]] * {{do | name=Lalzit Bay Beach | alt=Gjiri i Lalzit | url= | email= | address=near Hamallaj village | lat=41.3968 | long=19.4214 | directions=25 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular weekend retreat and exclusive wealthy beach area. A small resort can be found here. }} * {{do | name=Portez Beach | alt=Plazhi Portez | url= | email= | address=Bishti Palles | lat=41.4001 | long=19.404 | directions=13 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Durres in summer.JPG | content=Nice beach, bar, and wooden bungalows north of Currilat }} * {{do | name=Golem beach | alt=Plazhi Golemit/Mali i Robit | url= | email= | address=Golem, Mali Robit, Kavaja Rock (Shkembi i Kavajes) | lat=41.2509 | long=19.5194 | directions=follow SH4 and enter secondary road at Plepat roundabout (SH56, SH85) or continue along SH4 and exit at Golem/Mali Robit exit | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-05 | content=This is the main seaside resort south of Durrës with long sandy beaches popular with both Albanians and foreigners. Tirana inhabitants have their beach houses and villas in the area for weekend and summer retreats. }} ===Diving=== * {{do | name=Sea Resort of Golem|alt= |url=https://diammaresort.al/en/ |email=| address=Diamma Resort, Rruga Kompleksit|lat=41.266001| long=19.519762| directions=S 7 km| phone=+355 69 666 1555 |hours= | price=| content=Take a dip in the Adriatic Sea water in the biggest sea side resort of Golem. }} === Events === * {{listing | name=Durrës International Biennale of Contemporary Art | alt=DIBoCA | url=https://durresbiennale.org/en/home | email=durresbiennale@gmail.com | address=Lagja 12, Rruga Abaz Çelkupa, Durrës | lat=41.318463 | long=19.452563 | directions=Near the city centre | phone=+355 69 472 7490 | tollfree= | hours=Biennial; check the official website for current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Biennial contemporary art exhibition supported by the Municipality of Durrës. It brings Albanian and international artists to the city through exhibitions, workshops, talks, and contemporary visual art projects. }} * {{listing | name=International Music Festival of Chamber Music | alt=Chamber Fest Durrës | url=https://www.chamberfestdurres.com/ | email= | address=Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral, Durrës | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=In the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the current programme | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Annual chamber music festival held in Durrës since 2006. It brings Albanian and international instrumentalists together for classical concerts, often in historic venues such as Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Durrës | alt=International Music Festival Festival Days in Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/ | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Performances are usually held in public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in early July; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music, folklore, and dance festival with parades, stage performances, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups from different countries. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Fest | alt=International Festival Durrës Fest | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/festivals/1108-5410-international-festival-durres-fest-summer | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central public spaces and performance venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folk, music, and dance festival focused on cultural exchange. Groups from different countries perform traditional and modern dances, choral music, orchestral music, and majorette programmes. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Albania | alt=International Folklore Festival Durrës | url=https://mioff.org/booking/xxix-festival-days-in-albania/ | email=office@mioff.org | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central performance areas and nearby hotels | phone=+389 78 700 619 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late June; check current dates before travelling | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folklore festival for folk groups, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups. The programme usually includes parades, performances, and optional sightseeing around Durrës. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Sunset | alt=International Music and Folk-Dance Festival Durrës Sunset | url=https://festival-association.eu/fest/688 | email=info@festival-association.eu | address=Durrës beach area | lat=41.289722 | long=19.513333 | directions=Usually based around beach hotels and public performance spaces | phone=+389 71 376 151 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music and folk-dance festival for children's, youth, and adult ensembles. The programme usually includes a city parade, public performances, a gala evening, and sightseeing. }} * {{listing | name=Dances in Durrës | alt=International Festival Dancing in Durrës | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/news/2025-11-10-international-festival-dances-in-durres-brings-cultures-together-from-around-the-world-in | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International dance and folklore festival with parades, evening performances, cultural walks, and music groups from different countries. It is aimed at dance ensembles, choirs, folklore groups, and modern dance groups. }} * {{listing | name=Summer Stars of Durrës | alt=International Competition and Festival of Arts Summer Stars of Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/en/festivals/1153-4768-international-competition-and-festival-of-arts-summer-stars-of-durres | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Check the organiser's current venue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in August 2024 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International arts competition and festival for soloists, ensembles, and young performers. It includes dance, choral, orchestral, modern, pop, jazz, hip-hop, and majorette categories. Confirm current editions before planning a visit. }} * {{listing | name=Roots of Durrës | alt=Roots of Durrës: Folk Traditions Festival | url=https://www.wofafestivals.com/news/roots-of-durres-folk-traditions-festival-2025/ | email=info@wofafestivals.com | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone=+389 75 491 218 | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in June 2025 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Folk traditions festival that has brought international folklore ensembles to perform in Durrës, including at the ancient amphitheatre. Confirm whether a current edition is scheduled before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Festa e Ullirit | alt=Olive Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually held around central cultural venues | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late October; check local announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Local festival celebrating the olive harvest and Durrës' connection with olive cultivation. It usually includes music, performances, local traditions, and honours for notable citizens. }} * {{listing | name=Art Explora Festival | alt= | url=https://www.artexplora.org/en/festival/city/durres | email= | address=Port of Durrës, Durrës | lat=41.308330 | long=19.454170 | directions=At the port quay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Occasional travelling festival; held in Durrës in April 2025 | price=Free admission or reservation-based depending on activity | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Travelling Mediterranean cultural festival with a museum boat, exhibitions, immersive experiences, talks, performances, workshops, concerts, and film screenings. It visited Durrës in 2025, but future stops should be confirmed from the official programme. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës International Film Summerfest | alt=Durrës International Film Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Historical event; check local cultural announcements for any revival | price= | wikidata=Q18351819 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International film festival founded in 2008 and historically held in Durrës, including at the amphitheatre and other cultural venues. Recent regular editions could not be confirmed, so do not rely on old official websites. }} * {{listing | name=Vox Baroque | alt=International Baroque Music Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Venues may vary; past performances have used heritage sites | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; check current announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Early music festival focused on Baroque repertoire and historical instruments. It has included Durrës among its Albanian heritage destinations, but current local dates should be verified before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Balkans Joint Conference and Exhibition | alt= | url=https://balkansjointconference.org/ | email= | address=Grand Blue Fafa Resort, Durrës | lat=41.269722 | long=19.519444 | directions=South of central Durrës, near the beach resort area | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually announced by edition; check the official conference website | price=Registration required | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Regional professional conference and technical exhibition for the water supply and wastewater sector. It brings together utilities, experts, companies, and public institutions from the Balkans. }} ==Buy== * Kokomani Wine— Albanian wine produced by Kokomani Winery, known for red and white wines made from local and international grape varieties. Bottles of wine and homemade raki are commonly sold in wine shops, supermarkets and souvenir stores in Durrës, and are popular gifts for visitors. * Souvenirs— Tourist souvenirs sold throughout Durrës include magnets, postcards, Albanian flag items, handmade jewellery, miniature amphora decorations and locally crafted gifts inspired by the city’s Roman and coastal heritage. * Sea Souvenirs— Shops near the beach sell seashell decorations, handmade marine crafts, beach-themed ornaments and Adriatic-inspired gifts commonly bought by summer tourists. * Household goods — Local markets and small stores offer practical household products, kitchenware, textiles and handmade wooden items used in traditional Albanian homes. * Traditional Albanian products— Traditional Albanian products available in Durrës include olive oil, mountain tea, local honey, dried herbs, filigree crafts, handmade carpets and bottles of raki produced in different regions of Albania. Many are sold in souvenir shops and artisan markets around the city. ==Eat== ===Budget=== ====In the city centre==== * {{eat | name=SAF - Gatime tradicionale | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31929 | long=19.45303 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-15:00 | price=200-500 lek | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Very traditional lunch menu. Every day they will have cooked something new and fresh. Prices are more than decent and food is delicious. }} * {{eat | name=Sema | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/SEMARestaurantDurrës/ | email= | address= | lat=41.313309 | long=19.446844 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa. Make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at round about take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia; bear right onto street H.Troplini. Turn right to stay on street H.Troplini; keep straight onto road; arrive on the right; there is Sema restaurant. | phone=+355 672033224 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:59 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rehat Kebab | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3144571 | long= 19.4471379 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Around the Ventus Harbour pier==== * {{eat | name=Mema House | alt= | url= | email=memahouse@hotmail.com | address=Taulantia Street | lat=41.310814 | long=19.441229 | directions=head east on Adria Street toward J.Ballhysa Street; make a U-turn to stay on Adria Street; at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Egnatia Promenade; at the next roundabout, take the 1st exit and bear right onto Taulantia Promenade | phone=+355 697541068 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Piceri Belvedere | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia | lat=41.3108788 | long=19.4374212 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Near the city centre==== * {{eat | name=Piceri 2 Engjejt | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Hysen Myshketa | lat=41.3221725 | long=19.4474410 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Pizza}} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Bar Restorant Kajser | alt= | url= | email=| address= | lat= | long= | directions=near King Zog's Villa| phone=| hours= | price= Delicious ice cream combinations including baked ice cream (400 lek), spaghetti, fish and baked lamb| content=it offers a panoramic view of Durrës from above. }} * {{eat | name=Splendid Restorant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Egnatia | lat=41.309062 | long=19.445899 | directions=from street Adria, toward street Adria; at roundabout 1st exit onto promenade Egnatia; arrive at promenade Egnatia on the left, you can find Splendid restaurant | phone=+355 692824222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Especially known locally for fish. Everything is fresh, tasty and served in the most professional way. Prices are slightly more than average for Albania, but for the whole experience of eating you get there it's worth every cent. }} * {{eat | name=Neps | alt= | url=https://www.instagram.com/neps.Durrës/ | email= | address= | lat= 41.3140238 | long=19.4338833 | directions=from Durrës railway station, take street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria; at the roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia. At roundabout, take the 1st exit; bear right onto promenade Taulantia; the road name changes to street of Currila and there you can find Neps restaurant | phone=+355 694609111 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Restaurant in industrial style near the sea. }} * {{eat | name=Pastiçeri Pelikani 1 | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Pavaresia | lat= | long= | directions=near Hotel Adriatic | phone=+355 683095270 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=You can eat different sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Rooftop XV | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/fly.restaurant.Durrës/ | email=fly.Durrës@gmail.com | address=Street Erazmi | lat=41.310318 | long=19.448046 | directions= | phone=+355 684058103 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This restaurant has a breathtaking view from the 15th/top floor. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Tirona | alt= | url= | email= | address=SH4, Rruga Pavaresia, Durrës 2001 | lat=41.315426 | long=19.470471 | directions= | phone=+355 682010358 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-20 | content=A local's favourite, Restaurant Tirona in Durrës, it has a great selection of fresh sea-food at very affordable prices. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Restorant Piazza |alt=Restorant Piazza|url=http://www.restorantpiazza.com| email= |address=Rruga Taulantia 1| lat=41.30889 |long=19.4464 |directions=near the port|phone=+355 52 237601 |hours=08:00-23:00| price=| lastedit=2022-05-01 |content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Venetian Tower (Rotonda) bar|alt= |url= |email=| address=| lat= |long= | directions=on top of the Venetian Tower| phone=|hours= |price=|content=It offers a nice view of Durrës and its coastline. }} * {{drink | name=788 cocktail bar Durrës | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/788.CocktailBar | email=kokaemilian@hotmail.com | address= | lat=41.311132 | long=19.446449 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay street Adria at aroundabout, take 2nd onto promenade Egnatia; bear right, and then be right onto street H.Troplini; turn left onto street Dok Margariti; turn right onto street De Rada and then immediately turn right onto street Epidamni; turn left onto street Mosque | phone=+355 692121788 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=Nice music, great cocktails and that seaside summer breeze. During winter instead, live music, different events and local activities. ''(Tower is under construction as of 2022-05-08.)'' }} * {{drink | name=Bonsai Caffe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Bonsai-Caff%C3%A9/100010089723822 | email=ninikoka7@gmail.com | address= | lat= 41.3186186 | long=19.4462547 | directions=from Durrës railway station, go right street Adria, continuing with Martyrs street; welded with Kerol Bar | phone=+355 674999111 | tollfree= |fax=| hours=07:00-23:00 | price= |wikidata=| lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=A nice selection of drinks and a very welcoming environment. }} * {{drink | name=Portiku Wine Bar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pg/portikuwinebar/about/?entry_point=page_nav_about_item&tab=page_info | email= | address= | lat=41.309926 | long=19.447359 | directions=from railway station, depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia there at roundabout take 1st exit. Turn right at street Epidamni | phone=+355 686080666 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 09:00-23:30, Th 09:00-23:00, F 09:00-23:45, Sa Su 09:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Arragosta Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.aragosta.al/sq/ | email=reservation@arragosta.al | address=Neighborhood 1, street Taulantia, Currila | lat=41.318272 | long=19.45344 | directions= | phone=+355 52 226 477 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content=4-star beachfront hotel in the Currila area offering modern rooms, a private beach area and an on-site seafood restaurant. Popular for sea views and its location near the promenade and historic center. Traditional Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine available. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Adriatik | alt= | url=http://www.adriatikhotel.com/ | email=info@adriatikhotel.com | address=Lagjia 13, Rruga Pavaresia, Plazh Durrës | lat=41.3053 | long=19.4917 | directions=near the beach | phone=+355 52 260850 | tollfree= | fax=+355 52 260855 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from €100 (April 2026) |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Historic five-star seaside hotel located in the Plazh area of Durrës. Features a private beach, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, spa facilities, conference areas and several restaurants and bars. Popular with business travelers and summer tourists. }} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Arvi|alt=|url=http://hotelarvi.com|email=|address=Rruga Taulantia 16| lat=41.3105| long=19.4433|directions=Center|phone=+355 52 230403|price=Single from €60 (2014.jun)|checkin=12:00-22:00|checkout=07:00-11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Central waterfront hotel near the city promenade and archaeological sites. Offers sea-view rooms, restaurant facilities and easy access to cafés and nightlife in the center of Durrës. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Lido Durrës | alt= | url=https://katestravelexperience.eu/lido-albania | email= | address=Lagja.2; Rruga Aleksander Goga | lat=41.31511 | long=19.44525 | directions= | phone=+355 52 227941 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from around €50 |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Mid-range city hotel located near the center and port area. Offers comfortable rooms, breakfast service and convenient access to shops, restaurants and public transport. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Nais|url=https://hotelnais.com/ |email= |address=Lagia 1, Rruga Naim Frasheri nr.46|lat=41.3107 |long=19.4466| directions=from the port: 100 meters toward the town center; left on Naim Frasheri street, behind the tower |phone=| hours= | price=Double rooms from around €40| checkin= | checkout=11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Three-star hotel located close to the port and town center, within walking distance of the main promenade. Known for quiet rooms and included breakfast despite its central location.}} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Pepeto|url=http://hotelpepeto.webs.com/|email=|address=Mbreti MONUM Nr.3, Rruga Ramazan Jella|lat=41.3136|long=19.4473|directions=|phone=+355 52 224190|price= |checkin=|checkout=|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Small boutique-style hotel in the historic center near the Venetian Tower and archaeological attractions. Offers modern rooms and easy access to restaurants and cafés around the old town. }} * {{sleep | name=Premium Hotel Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Golem Long Beach 2504 | lat=41.259048 | long=19.447398 | directions= | phone=+355 676041008 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-05 | content=Modern beachfront hotel in the Golem area south of Durrës. Features restaurants, bars and evening entertainment including live DJs during the summer season. Popular with beach holiday visitors. }} * {{sleep | name=Crowne Plazza Durres | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/gb/en/durres/tiaab/hoteldetail?cm_mmc=YextLocal-_-CP-_-AL-_-TIAAB | email= | address= | lat=41.3087 | long=19.4458 | directions=Central, promenade | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-01 | content=5 Star experience on the waterfront, promenade. Newly opened in 2026. Luxury waterfront hotel on the central promenade offering modern rooms, sea views, upscale dining and five-star facilities. Located close to beaches, nightlife and the city center. }} == Connect == 5G available now (2026). As of Sep 2021, Vodafone has the best coverage, with 4G in Durrës, the other main towns, and highways between. One and ALB have 4G in Durrës but less coverage elsewhere. 5G has not been rolled out in Albania. == Go next == * [[Tirana]] the capital is ringed by trees and mountains. Mount Dajt has great views of the city. * [[Kruje]] in the hills above Tirana has museums and an old castle. * [[Lezhe]] has Skanderbeg's Tomb, panoramic Lezhe Castle and several renovated churches * [[Fier]] is a lively seaside city, near the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia. * Fushë-Krujë its near with Durrës {{geo|41.323|19.441}} {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Coastal Albania}} {{related|Ferries_in_the_Mediterranean}} 7de599j0vee4j4i5uzskg375cos14o7 5288848 5288847 2026-06-06T13:18:26Z ~2026-25168-20 2396992 5288848 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Durrës banner.jpg|caption=Roman circus panorama}} '''Durrës''' is [[Albania|Albania's]] chief port. Located on the shores of the Adriatic, Durrës is a lively town, organized around beach culture. ==Understand== In parts Durrës is attractive and well maintained. In others it is somewhat ramshackle, with both active and what appears to be abandoned development co-existing next to each other. To some degree, this is a feature of Durres geology. The area is in a tectonically active zone, with extremely unstable geology. The next earthquake will cause the ground to undergo liquefaction again, and much of the new development will have to be pruned back once more, before regrowing. Still, the city is alive. There are abundant shops, retail stalls and street traders. They appear to trade from early morning until late and provide an attractive "always on" vibe to the city. It has ferries to [[Bari]] and Ancona in ([[Italy]]) and bus connections to other Albanian and international destinations, often via Tirana. Alternative spellings of the city's name are ''Durazzo'' (Italian), ''Drač'' (Драч, Serbo-Croatian) or ''Dyrrhachion'' (Δυρράχιον, Greek). ==Get in== ===By boat=== [[File:Durrës Albania.jpg|thumb|Durrës panoramic view]] * {{go | name=Ferry Terminal | alt=Terminali i Trageteve | url=https://www.Durrësport.al/ | email= | address= | lat=41.31587 | long=19.45447 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q100343249 | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content= }} From specific destinations: * [[Bari]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [https://www.gnv.it/en , GNV Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Ventouris [https://ventourisferries.com/en/ Ferries] * [[Ancona]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} * [[Trieste]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries] ===By bus=== If arriving to Durres by bus, make sure that you get off ''before'' the bus turns onto the highway going south towards Golem. The highway is very difficult to turn around on, and if you end up significantly south of Durres proper, it will be very difficult to find a taxi that can take you back into Durres, and it'll cost a fortune. Remember, ride share apps do not work in Albania as of 2025. * {{go | name=Bus Terminal | alt=Stacioni I Autobuzave | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31783 | long=19.45375 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content=Buses and furgons from Tirana usually arrive at this bus terminal with the "Durrës" logo on the outside near the old railway station. There are also some international connections and a direct airport bus. }} * {{go | name=Plepat Bus Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.29226 | long=19.50961 | directions=At the southern end of the promenade/beach. Take a local bus from the City Bus Terminal to get here. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=This is the bus station where buses from Tirana and most southern destinations, like [[Berat]] (450 lek), will stop to drop off passengers. Most buses will not head into the centre of Durrës. This is the only place with regular connections heading south. }} From specific destinations: * [[Tirana]] – The buses depart from the Northern Bus Station in Tirana near the Casa Italia shopping center. The ride takes around 45 min and costs 180 lek (Dec 2024). The bus operates daily every 30 min from 06:30 to 19:30. * [[Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza]] – The buses all depart south of the airport terminal. It should go every 1–2 hr. Price (Dec 2024): 600 lek. * [[Skopje]] (North Macedonia) – Buses run through Durrës on their way to Tirana. A typical Skopje-Tirana ticket costs around €25 return. * [[Kumanovo]] (North Macedonia) – There is a daily direct bus line to Durrës. The cost of tickets is around €20. * [[Pristina]] (Kosovo) – During the summer season there are several buses a day. You should check the timetables at the Pristina bus station, but in 2013 the timetable was as follows; 04:00, 05:00, 06:00 and 06:30 and then at 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00 and 23:00. There are at least a couple of buses going back at 16:00 and 17:00. Return ticket costs about €20. The trip takes around 4–5½ hr, depending on whether it goes via Prizren. Buses ran by Artiti Tours depart and arrive from the {{marker|type=go|name=Rrota e Kuqe stop|lat=41.3104760|long=19.4850781}} by a roundabout near the middle of Rruga Pavaresia street running parallel, and very close, to the beach. Tickets can be booked online at [https://travel.gjirafa.com Gjirafa] or [https://www.autobus.al/en/ Autobus.al]. The bus stop can be reached on foot in about ½ hr from the city centre. Alternatively, take a taxi (about €8) or use a bus running along Rruga Pavaresia from the city centre. ===By car=== There is a road between here and [[Tirana]], the SH2, which takes just over half an hour for the journey. You could [[Tirana#By plane|fly into]] Tirana, then drive or get a taxi to Durrës, with the airport connecting to the SH2 by the SH60. Also from Vorë and Shijak from main roads and highways. ===By commuter train=== Construction is underway for 2027, from Triana to Durres, and the Airport. ==Get around== {{mapframe|41.313| 19.442|zoom=15|layer=W}} === On foot === The city centre where the archaeological sites are located can be toured on foot. Durrës is a relatively compact city, so many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center and along the waterfront. If you're open to a longer walk, it's easy to get all the way to South Durres from the city core, and even further south than that, until you reach a part of the beach that's owned by the Albanian military and impassable. === By bus === Durrës has a public bus system that connects various parts of the city. Public buses are orange. You can purchase tickets from kiosks or directly from the bus driver or a controller who goes around the bus to sell & check tickets. Bus schedules may vary, so it is a good idea to check in advance. ==== Getting to the beach area of the city ==== Once you arrive at the Durrës bus station, there is a small Bus traffic sign with many people. From there you can take a bus with the sign Durazzo (or Durrës) Plepa. The bus stops at several designated stops along the Rruga Paveresia boulevard, i.e. along the beach (40 lek as of 2024). === By taxi === Many taxis are available in Durrës, and they are a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling to destinations not easily accessible by bus. You can find them parked everywhere on the streets with a taxi symbol on the top of their car. Make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver or demand to go with meter before starting your journey or you will definitely be overcharged. ==See== Durrës has layers of Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, royal Albanian, communist-era and modern history. The main sights are concentrated around the old city centre, with several important coastal and religious sites further afield. ===Religious sites=== ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Shen Lucia Catholic Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Luçia, Saint Lucia Catholic Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Don Nikoll Kacorri | lat= | long= | directions=In the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1907, this is one of the main Catholic churches in Durrës. It has simple Western-style architecture combined with local Albanian elements and remains an important place for Catholic worship, community gatherings, Christmas, Easter and other religious celebrations. }} * {{see | name=Shen Gjergji Orthodox Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Gjergjit, Saint George Orthodox Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Vath Turja | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 19th century and closely connected to the Orthodox Christian community of Durrës. The building contains Byzantine architectural features, including traditional domes and icons. Inside, visitors can see religious paintings and decorative iconography, making it useful both for worshippers and for travellers interested in the city’s religious history. }} * {{see | name=Saint Asti and Saint Paul Orthodox Church | alt=Katedralja Ortodokse e Shën Palit dhe Shën Asti | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4488 | directions=Near the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:30 - 20:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=The main Orthodox cathedral of Durrës. Built in 2001 after the revival of religious life in Albania following communism, it is considered one of the largest modern Orthodox churches in the country. It has a large central dome, Byzantine-style frescoes and is named after Saint Paul and Saint Asti, the first Christian martyr associated with Durrës. It is used for major religious ceremonies and official Orthodox Church events. }} ====Mosques==== * {{see | name=Fatih Mosque | alt=Xhamia Fatih | url= | email= | address=Rruga Xhamia, close to the historical centre and the Roman Amphitheatre | lat=41.311102 | long=19.445970 | directions=Near the Roman Amphitheatre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally; avoid prayer times if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Fatih Mosque, Durrës | image=Xhamia e Fatihut.jpg | wikidata=Q1398072 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1503 during the Ottoman period and named after Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, known as Fatih. It is one of the oldest mosques in Albania. The mosque has suffered damage from earthquakes and wars but has been restored several times, and its minaret and design represent classical Ottoman religious architecture. }} * {{see | name=Great Mosque of Durrës | alt=Xhamia e Madhe e Durrësit, New Mosque, Grand Mosque | url= | email= | address=Rruga Aleksander Goga, Durrës | lat=41.313297 | long=19.445461 | directions=City centre, near Sheshi Liria | phone= | tollfree= | hours=06:00-09:30; visitors should avoid the busy Friday midday prayer if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Great Mosque of Durrës | image=Great Mosque in Durrës.JPG | wikidata=Q18888007 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Known locally as the Great Mosque. Built in 1937, it is sometimes called the New Mosque because it was constructed later than the older Ottoman mosques. It is one of the main Islamic religious centres in the city, with a large prayer hall and modern Islamic architecture. During Islamic holidays such as Eid, it becomes an important gathering place for worshippers. }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Archaeological Museum | alt=Muzeu Arkeologjik | url=https://m.facebook.com/muzeuarkeologjikDurrës/ | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia 32 | lat=41.311389 | long=19.440278 | directions=Near the seafront promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Temporarily closed until sometime in 2026 | price= | wikipedia=Durrës Archaeological Museum | wikidata=Q5316767 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The main archaeological museum of Durrës, normally focused on finds from ancient Dyrrhachium and the surrounding region. It is temporarily closed until sometime in 2026, so check locally before planning a visit. }} * {{see | image= | name=Popular Culture Museum | alt=Muzeu i Kulturës Popullore | url= | email= | address=Kavaje village, Rruga Skuraj | lat=41.180 | long=19.5549 | directions=S 18 km | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small local museum connected with traditional culture and daily life in the Durrës region. It may be useful for visitors interested in rural customs, folk objects and local heritage, but opening times should be checked locally. }} * {{see | name=World War II Relics Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3189417553968 | long=19.444248967878107 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small collection or hall connected with World War II memory in Durrës. Verify access and opening times locally, as information may be limited. }} * {{see | image= | name=Koloseo Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Gallery showcasing work by local painters and artists. Useful for visitors who want to see contemporary visual art in Durrës beyond the archaeological and historic sights. }} ===Ancient and medieval monuments=== [[File:Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg|thumb|Durrës, Roman Amphitheater]] * {{see | name=Durrës Amphitheatre | alt=Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kalase | lat=41.312222 | long=19.444867 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | wikipedia=Durrës Amphitheatre | image=Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg | wikidata=Q779868 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The largest Roman amphitheatre in the Balkans and the best-known ancient monument in Durrës. It includes restored iconography, underground passages below the seating area and a central grassy arena. It is one of the most important places for understanding the Roman layer of ancient Dyrrhachium. }} * {{see | name=Durrës Ancient City Wall | alt=Kalaja e Durrësit, Byzantine and Venetian walls | url= | email= | address=Rruga Sotir Noka | lat=41.3126 | long=19.4441 | directions=Next to the Amphitheater | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Surviving sections of the ancient and medieval walls of Durrës, close to the amphitheatre and old city centre. Around the walls are other historic features, including the Medieval Hammam and the Tophane Well. }} * {{see | name=Venetian Tower | alt=Rotonda, Kalaja | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3097 | long=19.4469 | directions=Near the old city walls and central promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | image=Durrës Albania 1.jpg | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=Circular defensive tower in the city centre, built in the 16th century and associated with the Venetian fortifications of Durrës. Visitors can climb steep stairs to the top and see a multimedia presentation projected inside the dome. }} * {{see | image= | name=Shen Mehilli Hill | alt=Kodra e Shen Mehillit, Saint Michael Hill, Basilica of Saint Michael | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës, near Arapaj | phone= | hours=Open archaeological area; check access locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Hill and archaeological area associated with the early Christian Basilica of Saint Michael, a 5th- or 6th-century site with mosaic remains. The area is also linked with the 1081 battle between Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos and Norman leader Robert Guiscard. }} * {{see | name=Byzantine Forum | alt=Macellum | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31503961305186 | long=19.44581838485815 | directions=Near the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public archaeological area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 5th century AD, the Byzantine Forum, also known as the Macellum, preserves remains of the ancient public space of the city. Public baths are around and beneath the Alexander Moissi Palace of Culture area. }} ===Historic residences and villas=== [[File:Villa e Zogut.jpg|thumb|King Zog's Villa]] * {{see | name=King Zog's Villa | alt=Vila e Zogut, Royal Villa of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kont Urani | lat=41.314724 | long=19.438698 | directions=On top of a hill overlooking the city | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually closed or irregular access; check locally before visiting | price= | wikipedia=Royal Villa of Durrës | image=Palace of king Zog durres.jpg | wikidata=Q13530086 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Former royal summer residence of King Zog, completed in 1937. It stands on a hill above Durrës and is known for its views over the bay, Italian Rationalist architecture and role in Albania's royal and 20th-century political history. The building has been damaged and interior access may be restricted, but the walk up is worthwhile for the façade and panorama. }} * {{see | image= | name=Aleksandër Moisiu House-Museum | alt=Shtepia Muze Aleksandër Moisiu, Alexander Moissi Museum House | url=https://akt.gov.al/en/atraksionet/shtepia-muze-aleksander-moisiu/ | email= | address=Rruga Kolonel Tomson, Durrës | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4460 | directions=In the historic centre, near the amphitheatre and Byzantine walls | phone=+355 52 223 150 | hours=Usually M-F 08:00-15:00; check before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Rare surviving 19th-century urban house in Durrës, associated with actor Aleksandër Moisiu. It has functioned as a house-museum and ethnographic museum, with displays on local daily life, folk clothing, household objects and Moisiu's life and career. }} * {{see | name=Old Doors Trail | alt=Path of Doors, Shtegu i Dyerve të Vjetra | url=https://www.muzehlab.org.al/old-doors-trail-in-durres/ | email=muzehlab@gmail.com | address=Old city centre, Durrës | lat=41.3123 | long=19.4462 | directions=Self-guided walking route through old Durrës | phone=+355 67 613 3262 | tollfree= | hours=Self-guided; contact MuZEH Lab for guided visits | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Heritage walking route through old Durrës focused on historic doors, family houses, courtyards and urban memory. Stops include old family houses and historic residences such as Villa Tedeschini, as well as streets around the older parts of the city. }} ===Civic buildings and other landmarks=== * {{see | name=Municipality | alt=Bashkia | url=http://www.Durrës.gov.al | email= | address=Sheshi Liria, 15 | lat=41.3127 | long=19.4463 | directions=On the main central square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Exterior view only unless visiting municipal offices | price=Free | image=Rathaus von Durres.jpg | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Municipal building on Sheshi Liria, one of the main civic spaces of central Durrës. It is useful as a landmark when navigating between the mosque, amphitheatre, Venetian Tower and old city streets. }} * {{see | image= | name=Kavaja Rock | alt=Shkembi i Kavajes | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.2779 | long=19.5192 | directions=SE 5 km, near Golem | phone= | hours=Open public landmark | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic landmark in Golem where caravans once passed along the ancient Via Egnatia. It is traditionally linked with a battle between Pompey and Julius Caesar and is also a useful coastal landmark south of Durrës. }} ===Old villages and rural heritage=== * {{see | name=Arapaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area; archaeological access may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village southeast of Durrës known for the nearby Basilica of Saint Michael and early Christian mosaic remains. It is useful for visitors interested in the rural edge of ancient Durrës and archaeological sites outside the city centre. }} * {{see | name=Shetaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shetaj, Durrës County | lat=41.567 | long=19.496 | directions=North of Durrës, on the way toward Cape of Rodon | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village in the northern coastal hinterland of Durrës County, useful as a base or stop when visiting Cape of Rodon, Rodoni Castle and nearby rural landscapes. It is better for visitors with a car. }} ===Natural and coastal landmarks=== * {{see | name=Lalzit Bay Area | alt=Gjiri i Lalëzit, Lalëz Bay | url=https://m.facebook.com/GjiriILazit/ | email= | address= | lat=41.4525 | long=19.4876 | directions=N 27 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open coastal area | price=Free; beach facilities may charge in season | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Long sandy bay north of Durrës, known for quieter beach areas, pine-backed coastline and access to Ishem Castle and Rrushkull Nature Reserve. It is best reached by car and is popular for beach stays outside central Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Rrushkull Nature Reserve | alt=Rezervati Rrushkull | url= | email= | address=Rrushkull, Durrës County | lat=41.435 | long=19.515 | directions=North of Durrës, near Lalzit Bay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open natural area; access conditions may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Coastal wetland and nature reserve near Lalzit Bay. It is mainly useful for visitors interested in quiet landscapes, birdlife, lagoons, dunes and natural areas outside the city. }} ===Further afield=== [[File:View of Lezhë.jpg|thumb|Lezhe]] * {{see | name=Rodoni Castle | alt=Kalaja e Rodonit | url= | email= | address=Cape of Rodon | lat=41.585982 | long=19.447504 | directions=Cape of Rodon, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check road and access conditions | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Ruined coastal castle at Cape of Rodon, traditionally associated with Skanderbeg. The site combines history, sea views, coastal walking and nearby religious heritage, and is best reached by car from Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Scanderbeg Castle | alt=Sebastia's Castle, Kalaja e Skënderbeut | url= | email= | address=Rruga e Sebastes, Laç village | lat=41.628339 | long=19.726932 | directions=N 33 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic castle site near Laç village. It is outside Durrës city and works best as a further-afield excursion for travellers exploring northern coastal and inland heritage sites. }} * {{see | name=Shen Ndout Church | alt=Kisha e Shna Ndout, Church of Saint Anthony | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kisha e Shna Ndout, Laç | lat=41.62898 | long=19.733149 | directions=Near Laç, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Active religious site; check pilgrimage and service times | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Important Catholic pilgrimage church near Laç. It is outside the city but can be combined with other northern excursions from Durrës, especially for visitors interested in religious sites and Albanian pilgrimage traditions. }} == Learn == * The '''Museum of Martyrs and Hall of War Relics''' on Rruga Aleksander Goga has a sizable public library on the second floor, with books in many European languages. The focus is definitely more on childrens books than not, but it's still a good resource for anyone who needs to do some research or just stay entertained. As of 2025, the hours were 08:00-16:00. ==Do== * {{do | name=Culture Palace | alt= | url= | email=| address=Bulevardi Dyrrah | lat=41.3144 | long=19.4465| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Events }} * {{do | name=Evening walk | address= | lat= | long= | directions= promenade | content=Go for an evening walk along the sea front promenade or along the beach. }} * {{do | name=Villa Hill | alt=Kodra e Viles | url= | email=| address=Rruga Currila | lat=41.318185 | long=19.433438| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Panoramic view of Durrës seaside at Currilat from top of a newly reclaimed hill. }} * {{do | name=Seaside Large Steps | alt=Shkallet tek Brryli | url= | email=| address=Intersection between Rruga Currila and Rruga Taulantia| lat=41.310852 | long=19.435305| directions=Brryli area| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Sit and admire the sea from up close on these large steps descending into the water}} [[File:Stadiumi Niko Dovana.jpg|thumb|right|Stadium Niko Dovana]] * '''Football:''' [https://www.kfteuta.com/ KF Teuta]{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} play football in Kategoria Superiore, the country's top tier. Their home ground is Niko Dovana Stadium, capacity 12,000, one km north of the ferry port. ===Beaches=== [[File:Durres in summer.JPG|thumb|City beach]] * {{do | name=Lalzit Bay Beach | alt=Gjiri i Lalzit | url= | email= | address=near Hamallaj village | lat=41.3968 | long=19.4214 | directions=25 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular weekend retreat and exclusive wealthy beach area. A small resort can be found here. }} * {{do | name=Portez Beach | alt=Plazhi Portez | url= | email= | address=Bishti Palles | lat=41.4001 | long=19.404 | directions=13 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Durres in summer.JPG | content=Nice beach, bar, and wooden bungalows north of Currilat }} * {{do | name=Golem beach | alt=Plazhi Golemit/Mali i Robit | url= | email= | address=Golem, Mali Robit, Kavaja Rock (Shkembi i Kavajes) | lat=41.2509 | long=19.5194 | directions=follow SH4 and enter secondary road at Plepat roundabout (SH56, SH85) or continue along SH4 and exit at Golem/Mali Robit exit | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-05 | content=This is the main seaside resort south of Durrës with long sandy beaches popular with both Albanians and foreigners. Tirana inhabitants have their beach houses and villas in the area for weekend and summer retreats. }} ===Diving=== * {{do | name=Sea Resort of Golem|alt= |url=https://diammaresort.al/en/ |email=| address=Diamma Resort, Rruga Kompleksit|lat=41.266001| long=19.519762| directions=S 7 km| phone=+355 69 666 1555 |hours= | price=| content=Take a dip in the Adriatic Sea water in the biggest sea side resort of Golem. }} === Events === * {{listing | name=Durrës International Biennale of Contemporary Art | alt=DIBoCA | url=https://durresbiennale.org/en/home | email=durresbiennale@gmail.com | address=Lagja 12, Rruga Abaz Çelkupa, Durrës | lat=41.318463 | long=19.452563 | directions=Near the city centre | phone=+355 69 472 7490 | tollfree= | hours=Biennial; check the official website for current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Biennial contemporary art exhibition supported by the Municipality of Durrës. It brings Albanian and international artists to the city through exhibitions, workshops, talks, and contemporary visual art projects. }} * {{listing | name=International Music Festival of Chamber Music | alt=Chamber Fest Durrës | url=https://www.chamberfestdurres.com/ | email= | address=Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral, Durrës | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=In the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the current programme | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Annual chamber music festival held in Durrës since 2006. It brings Albanian and international instrumentalists together for classical concerts, often in historic venues such as Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Durrës | alt=International Music Festival Festival Days in Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/ | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Performances are usually held in public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in early July; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music, folklore, and dance festival with parades, stage performances, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups from different countries. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Fest | alt=International Festival Durrës Fest | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/festivals/1108-5410-international-festival-durres-fest-summer | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central public spaces and performance venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folk, music, and dance festival focused on cultural exchange. Groups from different countries perform traditional and modern dances, choral music, orchestral music, and majorette programmes. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Albania | alt=International Folklore Festival Durrës | url=https://mioff.org/booking/xxix-festival-days-in-albania/ | email=office@mioff.org | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central performance areas and nearby hotels | phone=+389 78 700 619 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late June; check current dates before travelling | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folklore festival for folk groups, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups. The programme usually includes parades, performances, and optional sightseeing around Durrës. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Sunset | alt=International Music and Folk-Dance Festival Durrës Sunset | url=https://festival-association.eu/fest/688 | email=info@festival-association.eu | address=Durrës beach area | lat=41.289722 | long=19.513333 | directions=Usually based around beach hotels and public performance spaces | phone=+389 71 376 151 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music and folk-dance festival for children's, youth, and adult ensembles. The programme usually includes a city parade, public performances, a gala evening, and sightseeing. }} * {{listing | name=Dances in Durrës | alt=International Festival Dancing in Durrës | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/news/2025-11-10-international-festival-dances-in-durres-brings-cultures-together-from-around-the-world-in | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International dance and folklore festival with parades, evening performances, cultural walks, and music groups from different countries. It is aimed at dance ensembles, choirs, folklore groups, and modern dance groups. }} * {{listing | name=Summer Stars of Durrës | alt=International Competition and Festival of Arts Summer Stars of Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/en/festivals/1153-4768-international-competition-and-festival-of-arts-summer-stars-of-durres | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Check the organiser's current venue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in August 2024 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International arts competition and festival for soloists, ensembles, and young performers. It includes dance, choral, orchestral, modern, pop, jazz, hip-hop, and majorette categories. Confirm current editions before planning a visit. }} * {{listing | name=Roots of Durrës | alt=Roots of Durrës: Folk Traditions Festival | url=https://www.wofafestivals.com/news/roots-of-durres-folk-traditions-festival-2025/ | email=info@wofafestivals.com | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone=+389 75 491 218 | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in June 2025 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Folk traditions festival that has brought international folklore ensembles to perform in Durrës, including at the ancient amphitheatre. Confirm whether a current edition is scheduled before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Festa e Ullirit | alt=Olive Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually held around central cultural venues | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late October; check local announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Local festival celebrating the olive harvest and Durrës' connection with olive cultivation. It usually includes music, performances, local traditions, and honours for notable citizens. }} * {{listing | name=Art Explora Festival | alt= | url=https://www.artexplora.org/en/festival/city/durres | email= | address=Port of Durrës, Durrës | lat=41.308330 | long=19.454170 | directions=At the port quay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Occasional travelling festival; held in Durrës in April 2025 | price=Free admission or reservation-based depending on activity | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Travelling Mediterranean cultural festival with a museum boat, exhibitions, immersive experiences, talks, performances, workshops, concerts, and film screenings. It visited Durrës in 2025, but future stops should be confirmed from the official programme. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës International Film Summerfest | alt=Durrës International Film Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Historical event; check local cultural announcements for any revival | price= | wikidata=Q18351819 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International film festival founded in 2008 and historically held in Durrës, including at the amphitheatre and other cultural venues. Recent regular editions could not be confirmed, so do not rely on old official websites. }} * {{listing | name=Vox Baroque | alt=International Baroque Music Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Venues may vary; past performances have used heritage sites | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; check current announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Early music festival focused on Baroque repertoire and historical instruments. It has included Durrës among its Albanian heritage destinations, but current local dates should be verified before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Balkans Joint Conference and Exhibition | alt= | url=https://balkansjointconference.org/ | email= | address=Grand Blue Fafa Resort, Durrës | lat=41.269722 | long=19.519444 | directions=South of central Durrës, near the beach resort area | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually announced by edition; check the official conference website | price=Registration required | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Regional professional conference and technical exhibition for the water supply and wastewater sector. It brings together utilities, experts, companies, and public institutions from the Balkans. }} ==Buy== * Kokomani Wine— Albanian wine produced by Kokomani Winery, known for red and white wines made from local and international grape varieties. Bottles of wine and homemade raki are commonly sold in wine shops, supermarkets and souvenir stores in Durrës, and are popular gifts for visitors. * Souvenirs— Tourist souvenirs sold throughout Durrës include magnets, postcards, Albanian flag items, handmade jewellery, miniature amphora decorations and locally crafted gifts inspired by the city’s Roman and coastal heritage. * Sea Souvenirs— Shops near the beach sell seashell decorations, handmade marine crafts, beach-themed ornaments and Adriatic-inspired gifts commonly bought by summer tourists. * Household goods — Local markets and small stores offer practical household products, kitchenware, textiles and handmade wooden items used in traditional Albanian homes. * Traditional Albanian products— Traditional Albanian products available in Durrës include olive oil, mountain tea, local honey, dried herbs, filigree crafts, handmade carpets and bottles of raki produced in different regions of Albania. Many are sold in souvenir shops and artisan markets around the city. ==Eat== ===Budget=== ====In the city centre==== * {{eat | name=SAF - Gatime tradicionale | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31929 | long=19.45303 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-15:00 | price=200-500 lek | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Very traditional lunch menu. Every day they will have cooked something new and fresh. Prices are more than decent and food is delicious. }} * {{eat | name=Sema | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/SEMARestaurantDurrës/ | email= | address= | lat=41.313309 | long=19.446844 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa. Make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at round about take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia; bear right onto street H.Troplini. Turn right to stay on street H.Troplini; keep straight onto road; arrive on the right; there is Sema restaurant. | phone=+355 672033224 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:59 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rehat Kebab | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3144571 | long= 19.4471379 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Around the Ventus Harbour pier==== * {{eat | name=Mema House | alt= | url= | email=memahouse@hotmail.com | address=Taulantia Street | lat=41.310814 | long=19.441229 | directions=head east on Adria Street toward J.Ballhysa Street; make a U-turn to stay on Adria Street; at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Egnatia Promenade; at the next roundabout, take the 1st exit and bear right onto Taulantia Promenade | phone=+355 697541068 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Piceri Belvedere | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia | lat=41.3108788 | long=19.4374212 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Near the city centre==== * {{eat | name=Piceri 2 Engjejt | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Hysen Myshketa | lat=41.3221725 | long=19.4474410 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Pizza}} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Bar Restorant Kajser | alt= | url= | email=| address= | lat= | long= | directions=near King Zog's Villa| phone=| hours= | price= Delicious ice cream combinations including baked ice cream (400 lek), spaghetti, fish and baked lamb| content=it offers a panoramic view of Durrës from above. }} * {{eat | name=Splendid Restorant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Egnatia | lat=41.309062 | long=19.445899 | directions=from street Adria, toward street Adria; at roundabout 1st exit onto promenade Egnatia; arrive at promenade Egnatia on the left, you can find Splendid restaurant | phone=+355 692824222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Especially known locally for fish. Everything is fresh, tasty and served in the most professional way. Prices are slightly more than average for Albania, but for the whole experience of eating you get there it's worth every cent. }} * {{eat | name=Neps | alt= | url=https://www.instagram.com/neps.Durrës/ | email= | address= | lat= 41.3140238 | long=19.4338833 | directions=from Durrës railway station, take street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria; at the roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia. At roundabout, take the 1st exit; bear right onto promenade Taulantia; the road name changes to street of Currila and there you can find Neps restaurant | phone=+355 694609111 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Restaurant in industrial style near the sea. }} * {{eat | name=Pastiçeri Pelikani 1 | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Pavaresia | lat= | long= | directions=near Hotel Adriatic | phone=+355 683095270 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=You can eat different sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Rooftop XV | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/fly.restaurant.Durrës/ | email=fly.Durrës@gmail.com | address=Street Erazmi | lat=41.310318 | long=19.448046 | directions= | phone=+355 684058103 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This restaurant has a breathtaking view from the 15th/top floor. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Tirona | alt= | url= | email= | address=SH4, Rruga Pavaresia, Durrës 2001 | lat=41.315426 | long=19.470471 | directions= | phone=+355 682010358 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-20 | content=A local's favourite, Restaurant Tirona in Durrës, it has a great selection of fresh sea-food at very affordable prices. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Restorant Piazza |alt=Restorant Piazza|url=http://www.restorantpiazza.com| email= |address=Rruga Taulantia 1| lat=41.30889 |long=19.4464 |directions=near the port|phone=+355 52 237601 |hours=08:00-23:00| price=| lastedit=2022-05-01 |content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Venetian Tower (Rotonda) bar|alt= |url= |email=| address=| lat= |long= | directions=on top of the Venetian Tower| phone=|hours= |price=|content=It offers a nice view of Durrës and its coastline. }} * {{drink | name=788 cocktail bar Durrës | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/788.CocktailBar | email=kokaemilian@hotmail.com | address= | lat=41.311132 | long=19.446449 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay street Adria at aroundabout, take 2nd onto promenade Egnatia; bear right, and then be right onto street H.Troplini; turn left onto street Dok Margariti; turn right onto street De Rada and then immediately turn right onto street Epidamni; turn left onto street Mosque | phone=+355 692121788 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=Nice music, great cocktails and that seaside summer breeze. During winter instead, live music, different events and local activities. ''(Tower is under construction as of 2022-05-08.)'' }} * {{drink | name=Bonsai Caffe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Bonsai-Caff%C3%A9/100010089723822 | email=ninikoka7@gmail.com | address= | lat= 41.3186186 | long=19.4462547 | directions=from Durrës railway station, go right street Adria, continuing with Martyrs street; welded with Kerol Bar | phone=+355 674999111 | tollfree= |fax=| hours=07:00-23:00 | price= |wikidata=| lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=A nice selection of drinks and a very welcoming environment. }} * {{drink | name=Portiku Wine Bar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pg/portikuwinebar/about/?entry_point=page_nav_about_item&tab=page_info | email= | address= | lat=41.309926 | long=19.447359 | directions=from railway station, depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia there at roundabout take 1st exit. Turn right at street Epidamni | phone=+355 686080666 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 09:00-23:30, Th 09:00-23:00, F 09:00-23:45, Sa Su 09:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Arragosta Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.aragosta.al/sq/ | email=reservation@arragosta.al | address=Neighborhood 1, street Taulantia, Currila | lat=41.318272 | long=19.45344 | directions= | phone=+355 52 226 477 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content=4-star beachfront hotel in the Currila area offering modern rooms, a private beach area and an on-site seafood restaurant. Popular for sea views and its location near the promenade and historic center. Traditional Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine available. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Adriatik | alt= | url=http://www.adriatikhotel.com/ | email=info@adriatikhotel.com | address=Lagjia 13, Rruga Pavaresia, Plazh Durrës | lat=41.3053 | long=19.4917 | directions=near the beach | phone=+355 52 260850 | tollfree= | fax=+355 52 260855 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from €100 (April 2026) |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Historic five-star seaside hotel located in the Plazh area of Durrës. Features a private beach, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, spa facilities, conference areas and several restaurants and bars. Popular with business travelers and summer tourists. }} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Arvi|alt=|url=http://hotelarvi.com|email=|address=Rruga Taulantia 16| lat=41.3105| long=19.4433|directions=Center|phone=+355 52 230403|price=Single from €60 (2014.jun)|checkin=12:00-22:00|checkout=07:00-11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Central waterfront hotel near the city promenade and archaeological sites. Offers sea-view rooms, restaurant facilities and easy access to cafés and nightlife in the center of Durrës. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Lido Durrës | alt= | url=https://katestravelexperience.eu/lido-albania | email= | address=Lagja.2; Rruga Aleksander Goga | lat=41.31511 | long=19.44525 | directions= | phone=+355 52 227941 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from around €50 |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Mid-range city hotel located near the center and port area. Offers comfortable rooms, breakfast service and convenient access to shops, restaurants and public transport. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Nais|url=https://hotelnais.com/ |email= |address=Lagia 1, Rruga Naim Frasheri nr.46|lat=41.3107 |long=19.4466| directions=from the port: 100 meters toward the town center; left on Naim Frasheri street, behind the tower |phone=| hours= | price=Double rooms from around €40| checkin= | checkout=11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Three-star hotel located close to the port and town center, within walking distance of the main promenade. Known for quiet rooms and included breakfast despite its central location.}} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Pepeto|url=http://hotelpepeto.webs.com/|email=|address=Mbreti MONUM Nr.3, Rruga Ramazan Jella|lat=41.3136|long=19.4473|directions=|phone=+355 52 224190|price= |checkin=|checkout=|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Small boutique-style hotel in the historic center near the Venetian Tower and archaeological attractions. Offers modern rooms and easy access to restaurants and cafés around the old town. }} * {{sleep | name=Premium Hotel Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Golem Long Beach 2504 | lat=41.259048 | long=19.447398 | directions= | phone=+355 676041008 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-05 | content=Modern beachfront hotel in the Golem area south of Durrës. Features restaurants, bars and evening entertainment including live DJs during the summer season. Popular with beach holiday visitors. }} * {{sleep | name=Crowne Plazza Durres | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/gb/en/durres/tiaab/hoteldetail?cm_mmc=YextLocal-_-CP-_-AL-_-TIAAB | email= | address= | lat=41.3087 | long=19.4458 | directions=Central, promenade | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-01 | content=5 Star experience on the waterfront, promenade. Newly opened in 2026. Luxury waterfront hotel on the central promenade offering modern rooms, sea views, upscale dining and five-star facilities. Located close to beaches, nightlife and the city center. }} == Connect == 5G available now (2026). As of Sep 2021, Vodafone has the best coverage, with 4G in Durrës, the other main towns, and highways between. One and ALB have 4G in Durrës but less coverage elsewhere. 5G has not been rolled out in Albania. == Go next == * [[Tirana]] the capital is ringed by trees and mountains. Mount Dajt has great views of the city. * [[Kruje]] in the hills above Tirana has museums and an old castle. * [[Lezhe]] has Skanderbeg's Tomb, panoramic Lezhe Castle and several renovated churches * [[Fier]] is a lively seaside city, near the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia. * Fushë-Krujë its near with Durrës {{geo|41.323|19.441}} {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Coastal Albania}} {{related|Ferries_in_the_Mediterranean}} pec7rskm3r3vx34etj6dgqm20exkda7 5288849 5288848 2026-06-06T13:19:32Z ~2026-25168-20 2396992 5288849 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Durrës banner.jpg|caption=Roman circus panorama}} '''Durrës''' is [[Albania|Albania's]] chief port. Located on the shores of the Adriatic, Durrës is a lively town, organized around beach culture. ==Understand== In parts Durrës is attractive and well maintained. In others it is somewhat ramshackle, with both active and what appears to be abandoned development co-existing next to each other. To some degree, this is a feature of Durres geology. The area is in a tectonically active zone, with extremely unstable geology. The next earthquake will cause the ground to undergo liquefaction again, and much of the new development will have to be pruned back once more, before regrowing. Still, the city is alive. There are abundant shops, retail stalls and street traders. They appear to trade from early morning until late and provide an attractive "always on" vibe to the city. It has ferries to [[Bari]] and Ancona in ([[Italy]]) and bus connections to other Albanian and international destinations, often via Tirana. Alternative spellings of the city's name are ''Durazzo'' (Italian), ''Drač'' (Драч, Serbo-Croatian) or ''Dyrrhachion'' (Δυρράχιον, Greek). ==Get in== ===By boat=== [[File:Durrës Albania.jpg|thumb|Durrës panoramic view]] * {{go | name=Ferry Terminal | alt=Terminali i Trageteve | url=https://www.Durrësport.al/ | email= | address= | lat=41.31587 | long=19.45447 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q100343249 | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content= }} From specific destinations: * [[Bari]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [https://www.gnv.it/en , GNV Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Ventouris [https://ventourisferries.com/en/ Ferries] * [[Ancona]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} * [[Trieste]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries] ===By bus=== If arriving to Durres by bus, make sure that you get off ''before'' the bus turns onto the highway going south towards Golem. The highway is very difficult to turn around on, and if you end up significantly south of Durres proper, it will be very difficult to find a taxi that can take you back into Durres, and it'll cost a fortune. Remember, ride share apps do not work in Albania as of 2025. * {{go | name=Bus Terminal | alt=Stacioni I Autobuzave | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31783 | long=19.45375 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content=Buses and furgons from Tirana usually arrive at this bus terminal with the "Durrës" logo on the outside near the old railway station. There are also some international connections and a direct airport bus. }} * {{go | name=Plepat Bus Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.29226 | long=19.50961 | directions=At the southern end of the promenade/beach. Take a local bus from the City Bus Terminal to get here. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=This is the bus station where buses from Tirana and most southern destinations, like [[Berat]] (450 lek), will stop to drop off passengers. Most buses will not head into the centre of Durrës. This is the only place with regular connections heading south. }} From specific destinations: * [[Tirana]] – The buses depart from the Northern Bus Station in Tirana near the Casa Italia shopping center. The ride takes around 45 min and costs 180 lek (Dec 2024). The bus operates daily every 30 min from 06:30 to 19:30. * [[Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza]] – The buses all depart south of the airport terminal. It should go every 1–2 hr. Price (Dec 2024): 600 lek. * [[Skopje]] (North Macedonia) – Buses run through Durrës on their way to Tirana. A typical Skopje-Tirana ticket costs around €25 return. * [[Kumanovo]] (North Macedonia) – There is a daily direct bus line to Durrës. The cost of tickets is around €20. * [[Pristina]] (Kosovo) – During the summer season there are several buses a day. You should check the timetables at the Pristina bus station, but in 2013 the timetable was as follows; 04:00, 05:00, 06:00 and 06:30 and then at 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00 and 23:00. There are at least a couple of buses going back at 16:00 and 17:00. Return ticket costs about €20. The trip takes around 4–5½ hr, depending on whether it goes via Prizren. Buses ran by Artiti Tours depart and arrive from the {{marker|type=go|name=Rrota e Kuqe stop|lat=41.3104760|long=19.4850781}} by a roundabout near the middle of Rruga Pavaresia street running parallel, and very close, to the beach. Tickets can be booked online at [https://travel.gjirafa.com Gjirafa] or [https://www.autobus.al/en/ Autobus.al]. The bus stop can be reached on foot in about ½ hr from the city centre. Alternatively, take a taxi (about €8) or use a bus running along Rruga Pavaresia from the city centre. ===By car=== There is a road between here and [[Tirana]], the SH2, which takes just over half an hour for the journey. You could [[Tirana#By plane|fly into]] Tirana, then drive or get a taxi to Durrës, with the airport connecting to the SH2 by the SH60. Also from Vorë and Shijak from main roads and highways. ===By commuter train=== Construction is underway for 2027, from Triana to Durres, and the Airport. ==Get around== {{mapframe|41.313| 19.442|zoom=15|layer=W}} === On foot === The city centre where the archaeological sites are located can be toured on foot. Durrës is a relatively compact city, so many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center and along the waterfront. If you're open to a longer walk, it's easy to get all the way to South Durres from the city core, and even further south than that, until you reach a part of the beach that's owned by the Albanian military and impassable. === By bus === Durrës has a public bus system that connects various parts of the city. Public buses are orange. You can purchase tickets from kiosks or directly from the bus driver or a controller who goes around the bus to sell & check tickets. Bus schedules may vary, so it is a good idea to check in advance. ==== Getting to the beach area of the city ==== Once you arrive at the Durrës bus station, there is a small Bus traffic sign with many people. From there you can take a bus with the sign Durazzo (or Durrës) Plepa. The bus stops at several designated stops along the Rruga Paveresia boulevard, i.e. along the beach (40 lek as of 2024). === By taxi === Many taxis are available in Durrës, and they are a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling to destinations not easily accessible by bus. You can find them parked everywhere on the streets with a taxi symbol on the top of their car. Make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver or demand to go with meter before starting your journey or you will definitely be overcharged. ==See== Durrës has layers of Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, royal Albanian, communist-era and modern history. The main sights are concentrated around the old city centre, with several important coastal and religious sites further afield. ===Religious sites=== ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Shen Lucia Catholic Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Luçia, Saint Lucia Catholic Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Don Nikoll Kacorri | lat= | long= | directions=In the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1907, this is one of the main Catholic churches in Durrës. It has simple Western-style architecture combined with local Albanian elements and remains an important place for Catholic worship, community gatherings, Christmas, Easter and other religious celebrations. }} * {{see | name=Shen Gjergji Orthodox Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Gjergjit, Saint George Orthodox Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Vath Turja | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 19th century and closely connected to the Orthodox Christian community of Durrës. The building contains Byzantine architectural features, including traditional domes and icons. Inside, visitors can see religious paintings and decorative iconography, making it useful both for worshippers and for travellers interested in the city’s religious history. }} * {{see | name=Saint Asti and Saint Paul Orthodox Church | alt=Katedralja Ortodokse e Shën Palit dhe Shën Asti | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4488 | directions=Near the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:30 - 20:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=The main Orthodox cathedral of Durrës. Built in 2001 after the revival of religious life in Albania following communism, it is considered one of the largest modern Orthodox churches in the country. It has a large central dome, Byzantine-style frescoes and is named after Saint Paul and Saint Asti, the first Christian martyr associated with Durrës. It is used for major religious ceremonies and official Orthodox Church events. }} ====Mosques==== * {{see | name=Fatih Mosque | alt=Xhamia Fatih | url= | email= | address=Rruga Xhamia, close to the historical centre and the Roman Amphitheatre | lat=41.311102 | long=19.445970 | directions=Near the Roman Amphitheatre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally; avoid prayer times if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Fatih Mosque, Durrës | image=Xhamia e Fatihut.jpg | wikidata=Q1398072 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1503 during the Ottoman period and named after Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, known as Fatih. It is one of the oldest mosques in Albania. The mosque has suffered damage from earthquakes and wars but has been restored several times, and its minaret and design represent classical Ottoman religious architecture. }} * {{see | name=Great Mosque of Durrës | alt=Xhamia e Madhe e Durrësit, New Mosque, Grand Mosque | url= | email= | address=Rruga Aleksander Goga, Durrës | lat=41.313297 | long=19.445461 | directions=City centre, near Sheshi Liria | phone= | tollfree= | hours=06:00-09:30; visitors should avoid the busy Friday midday prayer if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Great Mosque of Durrës | image=Great Mosque in Durrës.JPG | wikidata=Q18888007 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Known locally as the Great Mosque. Built in 1937, it is sometimes called the New Mosque because it was constructed later than the older Ottoman mosques. It is one of the main Islamic religious centres in the city, with a large prayer hall and modern Islamic architecture. During Islamic holidays such as Eid, it becomes an important gathering place for worshippers. }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Archaeological Museum | alt=Muzeu Arkeologjik | url=https://m.facebook.com/muzeuarkeologjikDurrës/ | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia 32 | lat=41.311389 | long=19.440278 | directions=Near the seafront promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Temporarily closed until sometime in 2026 | price= | wikipedia=Durrës Archaeological Museum | wikidata=Q5316767 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The main archaeological museum of Durrës, normally focused on finds from ancient Dyrrhachium and the surrounding region. It is temporarily closed until sometime in 2026, so check locally before planning a visit. }} * {{see | image= | name=Popular Culture Museum | alt=Muzeu i Kulturës Popullore | url= | email= | address=Kavaje village, Rruga Skuraj | lat=41.180 | long=19.5549 | directions=S 18 km | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small local museum connected with traditional culture and daily life in the Durrës region. It may be useful for visitors interested in rural customs, folk objects and local heritage, but opening times should be checked locally. }} * {{see | name=World War II Relics Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3189417553968 | long=19.444248967878107 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small collection or hall connected with World War II memory in Durrës. Verify access and opening times locally, as information may be limited. }} * {{see | image= | name=Koloseo Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Gallery showcasing work by local painters and artists. Useful for visitors who want to see contemporary visual art in Durrës beyond the archaeological and historic sights. }} ===Ancient and medieval monuments=== [[File:Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg|thumb|Durrës, Roman Amphitheater]] * {{see | name=Durrës Amphitheatre | alt=Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kalase | lat=41.312222 | long=19.444867 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | wikipedia=Durrës Amphitheatre | image=Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg | wikidata=Q779868 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The largest Roman amphitheatre in the Balkans and the best-known ancient monument in Durrës. It includes restored iconography, underground passages below the seating area and a central grassy arena. It is one of the most important places for understanding the Roman layer of ancient Dyrrhachium. }} * {{see | name=Durrës Ancient City Wall | alt=Kalaja e Durrësit, Byzantine and Venetian walls | url= | email= | address=Rruga Sotir Noka | lat=41.3126 | long=19.4441 | directions=Next to the Amphitheater | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Surviving sections of the ancient and medieval walls of Durrës, close to the amphitheatre and old city centre. Around the walls are other historic features, including the Medieval Hammam and the Tophane Well. }} * {{see | name=Venetian Tower | alt=Rotonda, Kalaja | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3097 | long=19.4469 | directions=Near the old city walls and central promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | image=Durrës Albania 1.jpg | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=Circular defensive tower in the city centre, built in the 16th century and associated with the Venetian fortifications of Durrës. Visitors can climb steep stairs to the top and see a multimedia presentation projected inside the dome. }} * {{see | image= | name=Shen Mehilli Hill | alt=Kodra e Shen Mehillit, Saint Michael Hill, Basilica of Saint Michael | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës, near Arapaj | phone= | hours=Open archaeological area; check access locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Hill and archaeological area associated with the early Christian Basilica of Saint Michael, a 5th- or 6th-century site with mosaic remains. The area is also linked with the 1081 battle between Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos and Norman leader Robert Guiscard. }} * {{see | name=Byzantine Forum | alt=Macellum | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31503961305186 | long=19.44581838485815 | directions=Near the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public archaeological area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 5th century AD, the Byzantine Forum, also known as the Macellum, preserves remains of the ancient public space of the city. Public baths are around and beneath the Alexander Moissi Palace of Culture area. }} ===Historic residences and villas=== [[File:Villa e Zogut.jpg|thumb|King Zog's Villa]] * {{see | name=King Zog's Villa | alt=Vila e Zogut, Royal Villa of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kont Urani | lat=41.314724 | long=19.438698 | directions=On top of a hill overlooking the city | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually closed or irregular access; check locally before visiting | price= | wikipedia=Royal Villa of Durrës | image=Palace of king Zog durres.jpg | wikidata=Q13530086 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Former royal summer residence of King Zog, completed in 1937. It stands on a hill above Durrës and is known for its views over the bay, Italian Rationalist architecture and role in Albania's royal and 20th-century political history. The building has been damaged and interior access may be restricted, but the walk up is worthwhile for the façade and panorama. }} * {{see | image= | name=Aleksandër Moisiu House-Museum | alt=Shtepia Muze Aleksandër Moisiu, Alexander Moissi Museum House | url=https://akt.gov.al/en/atraksionet/shtepia-muze-aleksander-moisiu/ | email= | address=Rruga Kolonel Tomson, Durrës | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4460 | directions=In the historic centre, near the amphitheatre and Byzantine walls | phone=+355 52 223 150 | hours=Usually M-F 08:00-15:00; check before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Rare surviving 19th-century urban house in Durrës, associated with actor Aleksandër Moisiu. It has functioned as a house-museum and ethnographic museum, with displays on local daily life, folk clothing, household objects and Moisiu's life and career. }} * {{see | name=Old Doors Trail | alt=Path of Doors, Shtegu i Dyerve të Vjetra | url=https://www.muzehlab.org.al/old-doors-trail-in-durres/ | email=muzehlab@gmail.com | address=Old city centre, Durrës | lat=41.3123 | long=19.4462 | directions=Self-guided walking route through old Durrës | phone=+355 67 613 3262 | tollfree= | hours=Self-guided; contact MuZEH Lab for guided visits | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Heritage walking route through old Durrës focused on historic doors, family houses, courtyards and urban memory. Stops include old family houses and historic residences such as Villa Tedeschini, as well as streets around the older parts of the city. }} ===Civic buildings and other landmarks=== * {{see | name=Municipality | alt=Bashkia | url=http://www.Durrës.gov.al | email= | address=Sheshi Liria, 15 | lat=41.3127 | long=19.4463 | directions=On the main central square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Exterior view only unless visiting municipal offices | price=Free | image=Rathaus von Durres.jpg | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Municipal building on Sheshi Liria, one of the main civic spaces of central Durrës. It is useful as a landmark when navigating between the mosque, amphitheatre, Venetian Tower and old city streets. }} * {{see | image= | name=Kavaja Rock | alt=Shkembi i Kavajes | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.2779 | long=19.5192 | directions=SE 5 km, near Golem | phone= | hours=Open public landmark | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic landmark in Golem where caravans once passed along the ancient Via Egnatia. It is traditionally linked with a battle between Pompey and Julius Caesar and is also a useful coastal landmark south of Durrës. }} ===Old villages and rural heritage=== * {{see | name=Arapaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area; archaeological access may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village southeast of Durrës known for the nearby Basilica of Saint Michael and early Christian mosaic remains. It is useful for visitors interested in the rural edge of ancient Durrës and archaeological sites outside the city centre. }} * {{see | name=Shetaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shetaj, Durrës County | lat=41.567 | long=19.496 | directions=North of Durrës, on the way toward Cape of Rodon | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village in the northern coastal hinterland of Durrës County, useful as a base or stop when visiting Cape of Rodon, Rodoni Castle and nearby rural landscapes. It is better for visitors with a car. }} ===Natural and coastal landmarks=== * {{see | name=Lalzit Bay Area | alt=Gjiri i Lalëzit, Lalëz Bay | url=https://m.facebook.com/GjiriILazit/ | email= | address= | lat=41.4525 | long=19.4876 | directions=N 27 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open coastal area | price=Free; beach facilities may charge in season | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Long sandy bay north of Durrës, known for quieter beach areas, pine-backed coastline and access to Ishem Castle and Rrushkull Nature Reserve. It is best reached by car and is popular for beach stays outside central Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Rrushkull Nature Reserve | alt=Rezervati Rrushkull | url= | email= | address=Rrushkull, Durrës County | lat=41.435 | long=19.515 | directions=North of Durrës, near Lalzit Bay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open natural area; access conditions may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Coastal wetland and nature reserve near Lalzit Bay. It is mainly useful for visitors interested in quiet landscapes, birdlife, lagoons, dunes and natural areas outside the city. }} ===Further afield=== [[File:View of Lezhë.jpg|thumb|Lezhe]] * {{see | name=Rodoni Castle | alt=Kalaja e Rodonit | url= | email= | address=Cape of Rodon | lat=41.585982 | long=19.447504 | directions=Cape of Rodon, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check road and access conditions | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Ruined coastal castle at Cape of Rodon, traditionally associated with Skanderbeg. The site combines history, sea views, coastal walking and nearby religious heritage, and is best reached by car from Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Scanderbeg Castle | alt=Sebastia's Castle, Kalaja e Skënderbeut | url= | email= | address=Rruga e Sebastes, Laç village | lat=41.628339 | long=19.726932 | directions=N 33 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic castle site near Laç village. It is outside Durrës city and works best as a further-afield excursion for travellers exploring northern coastal and inland heritage sites. }} * {{see | name=Shen Ndout Church | alt=Kisha e Shna Ndout, Church of Saint Anthony | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kisha e Shna Ndout, Laç | lat=41.62898 | long=19.733149 | directions=Near Laç, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Active religious site; check pilgrimage and service times | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Important Catholic pilgrimage church near Laç. It is outside the city but can be combined with other northern excursions from Durrës, especially for visitors interested in religious sites and Albanian pilgrimage traditions. }} == Learn == * The '''Museum of Martyrs and Hall of War Relics''' on Rruga Aleksander Goga has a sizable public library on the second floor, with books in many European languages. The focus is definitely more on childrens books than not, but it's still a good resource for anyone who needs to do some research or just stay entertained. As of 2025, the hours were 08:00-16:00. ==Do== * {{do | name=Culture Palace | alt= | url= | email=| address=Bulevardi Dyrrah | lat=41.3144 | long=19.4465| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Events }} * {{do | name=Evening walk | address= | lat= | long= | directions= promenade | content=Go for an evening walk along the sea front promenade or along the beach. }} * {{do | name=Villa Hill | alt=Kodra e Viles | url= | email=| address=Rruga Currila | lat=41.318185 | long=19.433438| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Panoramic view of Durrës seaside at Currilat from top of a newly reclaimed hill. }} * {{do | name=Seaside Large Steps | alt=Shkallet tek Brryli | url= | email=| address=Intersection between Rruga Currila and Rruga Taulantia| lat=41.310852 | long=19.435305| directions=Brryli area| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Sit and admire the sea from up close on these large steps descending into the water}} [[File:Stadiumi Niko Dovana.jpg|thumb|right|Stadium Niko Dovana]] * '''Football:''' [https://www.kfteuta.com/ KF Teuta]{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} play football in Kategoria Superiore, the country's top tier. Their home ground is Niko Dovana Stadium, capacity 12,000, one km north of the ferry port. ===Beaches=== [[File:Durres in summer.JPG|thumb|City beach]] * {{do | name=Lalzit Bay Beach | alt=Gjiri i Lalzit | url= | email= | address=near Hamallaj village | lat=41.3968 | long=19.4214 | directions=25 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular weekend retreat and exclusive wealthy beach area. A small resort can be found here. }} * {{do | name=Portez Beach | alt=Plazhi Portez | url= | email= | address=Bishti Palles | lat=41.4001 | long=19.404 | directions=13 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Durres in summer.JPG | content=Nice beach, bar, and wooden bungalows north of Currilat }} * {{do | name=Golem beach | alt=Plazhi Golemit/Mali i Robit | url= | email= | address=Golem, Mali Robit, Kavaja Rock (Shkembi i Kavajes) | lat=41.2509 | long=19.5194 | directions=follow SH4 and enter secondary road at Plepat roundabout (SH56, SH85) or continue along SH4 and exit at Golem/Mali Robit exit | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-05 | content=This is the main seaside resort south of Durrës with long sandy beaches popular with both Albanians and foreigners. Tirana inhabitants have their beach houses and villas in the area for weekend and summer retreats. }} ===Diving=== * {{do | name=Sea Resort of Golem|alt= |url=https://diammaresort.al/en/ |email=| address=Diamma Resort, Rruga Kompleksit|lat=41.266001| long=19.519762| directions=S 7 km| phone=+355 69 666 1555 |hours= | price=| content=Take a dip in the Adriatic Sea water in the biggest sea side resort of Golem. }} === Events === * {{listing | name=Durrës International Biennale of Contemporary Art | alt=DIBoCA | url=https://durresbiennale.org/en/home | email=durresbiennale@gmail.com | address=Lagja 12, Rruga Abaz Çelkupa, Durrës | lat=41.318463 | long=19.452563 | directions=Near the city centre | phone=+355 69 472 7490 | tollfree= | hours=Biennial; check the official website for current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Biennial contemporary art exhibition supported by the Municipality of Durrës. It brings Albanian and international artists to the city through exhibitions, workshops, talks, and contemporary visual art projects. }} * {{listing | name=International Music Festival of Chamber Music | alt=Chamber Fest Durrës | url=https://www.chamberfestdurres.com/ | email= | address=Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral, Durrës | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=In the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the current programme | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Annual chamber music festival held in Durrës since 2006. It brings Albanian and international instrumentalists together for classical concerts, often in historic venues such as Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Durrës | alt=International Music Festival Festival Days in Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/ | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Performances are usually held in public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in early July; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music, folklore, and dance festival with parades, stage performances, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups from different countries. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Fest | alt=International Festival Durrës Fest | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/festivals/1108-5410-international-festival-durres-fest-summer | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central public spaces and performance venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folk, music, and dance festival focused on cultural exchange. Groups from different countries perform traditional and modern dances, choral music, orchestral music, and majorette programmes. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Albania | alt=International Folklore Festival Durrës | url=https://mioff.org/booking/xxix-festival-days-in-albania/ | email=office@mioff.org | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central performance areas and nearby hotels | phone=+389 78 700 619 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late June; check current dates before travelling | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folklore festival for folk groups, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups. The programme usually includes parades, performances, and optional sightseeing around Durrës. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Sunset | alt=International Music and Folk-Dance Festival Durrës Sunset | url=https://festival-association.eu/fest/688 | email=info@festival-association.eu | address=Durrës beach area | lat=41.289722 | long=19.513333 | directions=Usually based around beach hotels and public performance spaces | phone=+389 71 376 151 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music and folk-dance festival for children's, youth, and adult ensembles. The programme usually includes a city parade, public performances, a gala evening, and sightseeing. }} * {{listing | name=Dances in Durrës | alt=International Festival Dancing in Durrës | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/news/2025-11-10-international-festival-dances-in-durres-brings-cultures-together-from-around-the-world-in | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International dance and folklore festival with parades, evening performances, cultural walks, and music groups from different countries. It is aimed at dance ensembles, choirs, folklore groups, and modern dance groups. }} * {{listing | name=Summer Stars of Durrës | alt=International Competition and Festival of Arts Summer Stars of Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/en/festivals/1153-4768-international-competition-and-festival-of-arts-summer-stars-of-durres | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Check the organiser's current venue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in August 2024 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International arts competition and festival for soloists, ensembles, and young performers. It includes dance, choral, orchestral, modern, pop, jazz, hip-hop, and majorette categories. Confirm current editions before planning a visit. }} * {{listing | name=Roots of Durrës | alt=Roots of Durrës: Folk Traditions Festival | url=https://www.wofafestivals.com/news/roots-of-durres-folk-traditions-festival-2025/ | email=info@wofafestivals.com | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone=+389 75 491 218 | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in June 2025 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Folk traditions festival that has brought international folklore ensembles to perform in Durrës, including at the ancient amphitheatre. Confirm whether a current edition is scheduled before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Festa e Ullirit | alt=Olive Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually held around central cultural venues | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late October; check local announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Local festival celebrating the olive harvest and Durrës' connection with olive cultivation. It usually includes music, performances, local traditions, and honours for notable citizens. }} * {{listing | name=Art Explora Festival | alt= | url=https://www.artexplora.org/en/festival/city/durres | email= | address=Port of Durrës, Durrës | lat=41.308330 | long=19.454170 | directions=At the port quay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Occasional travelling festival; held in Durrës in April 2025 | price=Free admission or reservation-based depending on activity | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Travelling Mediterranean cultural festival with a museum boat, exhibitions, immersive experiences, talks, performances, workshops, concerts, and film screenings. It visited Durrës in 2025, but future stops should be confirmed from the official programme. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës International Film Summerfest | alt=Durrës International Film Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Historical event; check local cultural announcements for any revival | price= | wikidata=Q18351819 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International film festival founded in 2008 and historically held in Durrës, including at the amphitheatre and other cultural venues. Recent regular editions could not be confirmed, so do not rely on old official websites. }} * {{listing | name=Vox Baroque | alt=International Baroque Music Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Venues may vary; past performances have used heritage sites | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; check current announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Early music festival focused on Baroque repertoire and historical instruments. It has included Durrës among its Albanian heritage destinations, but current local dates should be verified before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Balkans Joint Conference and Exhibition | alt= | url=https://balkansjointconference.org/ | email= | address=Grand Blue Fafa Resort, Durrës | lat=41.269722 | long=19.519444 | directions=South of central Durrës, near the beach resort area | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually announced by edition; check the official conference website | price=Registration required | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Regional professional conference and technical exhibition for the water supply and wastewater sector. It brings together utilities, experts, companies, and public institutions from the Balkans. }} ==Buy== * Kokomani Wine— Albanian wine produced by Kokomani Winery, known for red and white wines made from local and international grape varieties. Bottles of wine and homemade raki are commonly sold in wine shops, supermarkets and souvenir stores in Durrës, and are popular gifts for visitors. * Souvenirs— Tourist souvenirs sold throughout Durrës include magnets, postcards, Albanian flag items, handmade jewellery, miniature amphora decorations and locally crafted gifts inspired by the city’s Roman and coastal heritage. * Sea Souvenirs— Shops near the beach sell seashell decorations, handmade marine crafts, beach-themed ornaments and Adriatic-inspired gifts commonly bought by summer tourists. * Household goods — Local markets and small stores offer practical household products, kitchenware, textiles and handmade wooden items used in traditional Albanian homes. * Traditional Albanian products— Traditional Albanian products available in Durrës include olive oil, mountain tea, local honey, dried herbs, filigree crafts, handmade carpets and bottles of raki produced in different regions of Albania. Many are sold in souvenir shops and artisan markets around the city. ==Eat== ===Budget=== ====In the city centre==== * {{eat | name=SAF - Gatime tradicionale | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31929 | long=19.45303 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-15:00 | price=200-500 lek | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Very traditional lunch menu. Every day they will have cooked something new and fresh. Prices are more than decent and food is delicious. }} * {{eat | name=Sema | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/SEMARestaurantDurrës/ | email= | address= | lat=41.313309 | long=19.446844 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa. Make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at round about take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia; bear right onto street H.Troplini. Turn right to stay on street H.Troplini; keep straight onto road; arrive on the right; there is Sema restaurant. | phone=+355 672033224 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:59 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rehat Kebab | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3144571 | long= 19.4471379 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Around the Ventus Harbour pier==== * {{eat | name=Mema House | alt= | url= | email=memahouse@hotmail.com | address=Taulantia Street | lat=41.310814 | long=19.441229 | directions=head east on Adria Street toward J.Ballhysa Street; make a U-turn to stay on Adria Street; at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Egnatia Promenade; at the next roundabout, take the 1st exit and bear right onto Taulantia Promenade | phone=+355 697541068 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Piceri Belvedere | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia | lat=41.3108788 | long=19.4374212 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Near the city centre==== * {{eat | name=Piceri 2 Engjejt | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Hysen Myshketa | lat=41.3221725 | long=19.4474410 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Pizza}} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Bar Restorant Kajser | alt= | url= | email=| address= | lat= | long= | directions=near King Zog's Villa| phone=| hours= | price= Delicious ice cream combinations including baked ice cream (400 lek), spaghetti, fish and baked lamb| content=it offers a panoramic view of Durrës from above. }} * {{eat | name=Splendid Restorant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Egnatia | lat=41.309062 | long=19.445899 | directions=from street Adria, toward street Adria; at roundabout 1st exit onto promenade Egnatia; arrive at promenade Egnatia on the left, you can find Splendid restaurant | phone=+355 692824222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Especially known locally for fish. Everything is fresh, tasty and served in the most professional way. Prices are slightly more than average for Albania, but for the whole experience of eating you get there it's worth every Lec. }} * {{eat | name=Neps | alt= | url=https://www.instagram.com/neps.Durrës/ | email= | address= | lat= 41.3140238 | long=19.4338833 | directions=from Durrës railway station, take street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria; at the roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia. At roundabout, take the 1st exit; bear right onto promenade Taulantia; the road name changes to street of Currila and there you can find Neps restaurant | phone=+355 694609111 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Restaurant in industrial style near the sea. }} * {{eat | name=Pastiçeri Pelikani 1 | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Pavaresia | lat= | long= | directions=near Hotel Adriatic | phone=+355 683095270 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=You can eat different sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Rooftop XV | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/fly.restaurant.Durrës/ | email=fly.Durrës@gmail.com | address=Street Erazmi | lat=41.310318 | long=19.448046 | directions= | phone=+355 684058103 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This restaurant has a breathtaking view from the 15th/top floor. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Tirona | alt= | url= | email= | address=SH4, Rruga Pavaresia, Durrës 2001 | lat=41.315426 | long=19.470471 | directions= | phone=+355 682010358 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-20 | content=A local's favourite, Restaurant Tirona in Durrës, it has a great selection of fresh sea-food at very affordable prices. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Restorant Piazza |alt=Restorant Piazza|url=http://www.restorantpiazza.com| email= |address=Rruga Taulantia 1| lat=41.30889 |long=19.4464 |directions=near the port|phone=+355 52 237601 |hours=08:00-23:00| price=| lastedit=2022-05-01 |content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Venetian Tower (Rotonda) bar|alt= |url= |email=| address=| lat= |long= | directions=on top of the Venetian Tower| phone=|hours= |price=|content=It offers a nice view of Durrës and its coastline. }} * {{drink | name=788 cocktail bar Durrës | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/788.CocktailBar | email=kokaemilian@hotmail.com | address= | lat=41.311132 | long=19.446449 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay street Adria at aroundabout, take 2nd onto promenade Egnatia; bear right, and then be right onto street H.Troplini; turn left onto street Dok Margariti; turn right onto street De Rada and then immediately turn right onto street Epidamni; turn left onto street Mosque | phone=+355 692121788 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=Nice music, great cocktails and that seaside summer breeze. During winter instead, live music, different events and local activities. ''(Tower is under construction as of 2022-05-08.)'' }} * {{drink | name=Bonsai Caffe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Bonsai-Caff%C3%A9/100010089723822 | email=ninikoka7@gmail.com | address= | lat= 41.3186186 | long=19.4462547 | directions=from Durrës railway station, go right street Adria, continuing with Martyrs street; welded with Kerol Bar | phone=+355 674999111 | tollfree= |fax=| hours=07:00-23:00 | price= |wikidata=| lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=A nice selection of drinks and a very welcoming environment. }} * {{drink | name=Portiku Wine Bar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pg/portikuwinebar/about/?entry_point=page_nav_about_item&tab=page_info | email= | address= | lat=41.309926 | long=19.447359 | directions=from railway station, depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia there at roundabout take 1st exit. Turn right at street Epidamni | phone=+355 686080666 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 09:00-23:30, Th 09:00-23:00, F 09:00-23:45, Sa Su 09:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Arragosta Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.aragosta.al/sq/ | email=reservation@arragosta.al | address=Neighborhood 1, street Taulantia, Currila | lat=41.318272 | long=19.45344 | directions= | phone=+355 52 226 477 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content=4-star beachfront hotel in the Currila area offering modern rooms, a private beach area and an on-site seafood restaurant. Popular for sea views and its location near the promenade and historic center. Traditional Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine available. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Adriatik | alt= | url=http://www.adriatikhotel.com/ | email=info@adriatikhotel.com | address=Lagjia 13, Rruga Pavaresia, Plazh Durrës | lat=41.3053 | long=19.4917 | directions=near the beach | phone=+355 52 260850 | tollfree= | fax=+355 52 260855 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from €100 (April 2026) |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Historic five-star seaside hotel located in the Plazh area of Durrës. Features a private beach, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, spa facilities, conference areas and several restaurants and bars. Popular with business travelers and summer tourists. }} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Arvi|alt=|url=http://hotelarvi.com|email=|address=Rruga Taulantia 16| lat=41.3105| long=19.4433|directions=Center|phone=+355 52 230403|price=Single from €60 (2014.jun)|checkin=12:00-22:00|checkout=07:00-11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Central waterfront hotel near the city promenade and archaeological sites. Offers sea-view rooms, restaurant facilities and easy access to cafés and nightlife in the center of Durrës. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Lido Durrës | alt= | url=https://katestravelexperience.eu/lido-albania | email= | address=Lagja.2; Rruga Aleksander Goga | lat=41.31511 | long=19.44525 | directions= | phone=+355 52 227941 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from around €50 |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Mid-range city hotel located near the center and port area. Offers comfortable rooms, breakfast service and convenient access to shops, restaurants and public transport. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Nais|url=https://hotelnais.com/ |email= |address=Lagia 1, Rruga Naim Frasheri nr.46|lat=41.3107 |long=19.4466| directions=from the port: 100 meters toward the town center; left on Naim Frasheri street, behind the tower |phone=| hours= | price=Double rooms from around €40| checkin= | checkout=11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Three-star hotel located close to the port and town center, within walking distance of the main promenade. Known for quiet rooms and included breakfast despite its central location.}} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Pepeto|url=http://hotelpepeto.webs.com/|email=|address=Mbreti MONUM Nr.3, Rruga Ramazan Jella|lat=41.3136|long=19.4473|directions=|phone=+355 52 224190|price= |checkin=|checkout=|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Small boutique-style hotel in the historic center near the Venetian Tower and archaeological attractions. Offers modern rooms and easy access to restaurants and cafés around the old town. }} * {{sleep | name=Premium Hotel Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Golem Long Beach 2504 | lat=41.259048 | long=19.447398 | directions= | phone=+355 676041008 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-05 | content=Modern beachfront hotel in the Golem area south of Durrës. Features restaurants, bars and evening entertainment including live DJs during the summer season. Popular with beach holiday visitors. }} * {{sleep | name=Crowne Plazza Durres | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/gb/en/durres/tiaab/hoteldetail?cm_mmc=YextLocal-_-CP-_-AL-_-TIAAB | email= | address= | lat=41.3087 | long=19.4458 | directions=Central, promenade | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-01 | content=5 Star experience on the waterfront, promenade. Newly opened in 2026. Luxury waterfront hotel on the central promenade offering modern rooms, sea views, upscale dining and five-star facilities. Located close to beaches, nightlife and the city center. }} == Connect == 5G available now (2026). As of Sep 2021, Vodafone has the best coverage, with 4G in Durrës, the other main towns, and highways between. One and ALB have 4G in Durrës but less coverage elsewhere. 5G has not been rolled out in Albania. == Go next == * [[Tirana]] the capital is ringed by trees and mountains. Mount Dajt has great views of the city. * [[Kruje]] in the hills above Tirana has museums and an old castle. * [[Lezhe]] has Skanderbeg's Tomb, panoramic Lezhe Castle and several renovated churches * [[Fier]] is a lively seaside city, near the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia. * Fushë-Krujë its near with Durrës {{geo|41.323|19.441}} {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Coastal Albania}} {{related|Ferries_in_the_Mediterranean}} pju36lkceghgmxuyx02ql4s3wz825jg 5288850 5288849 2026-06-06T13:20:11Z ~2026-25168-20 2396992 5288850 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Durrës banner.jpg|caption=Roman circus panorama}} '''Durrës''' is [[Albania|Albania's]] chief port. Located on the shores of the Adriatic, Durrës is a lively town, organized around beach culture. ==Understand== In parts Durrës is attractive and well maintained. In others it is somewhat ramshackle, with both active and what appears to be abandoned development co-existing next to each other. To some degree, this is a feature of Durres geology. The area is in a tectonically active zone, with extremely unstable geology. The next earthquake will cause the ground to undergo liquefaction again, and much of the new development will have to be pruned back once more, before regrowing. Still, the city is alive. There are abundant shops, retail stalls and street traders. They appear to trade from early morning until late and provide an attractive "always on" vibe to the city. It has ferries to [[Bari]] and Ancona in ([[Italy]]) and bus connections to other Albanian and international destinations, often via Tirana. Alternative spellings of the city's name are ''Durazzo'' (Italian), ''Drač'' (Драч, Serbo-Croatian) or ''Dyrrhachion'' (Δυρράχιον, Greek). ==Get in== ===By boat=== [[File:Durrës Albania.jpg|thumb|Durrës panoramic view]] * {{go | name=Ferry Terminal | alt=Terminali i Trageteve | url=https://www.Durrësport.al/ | email= | address= | lat=41.31587 | long=19.45447 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q100343249 | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content= }} From specific destinations: * [[Bari]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [https://www.gnv.it/en , GNV Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Ventouris [https://ventourisferries.com/en/ Ferries] * [[Ancona]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} * [[Trieste]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries] ===By bus=== If arriving to Durres by bus, make sure that you get off ''before'' the bus turns onto the highway going south towards Golem. The highway is very difficult to turn around on, and if you end up significantly south of Durres proper, it will be very difficult to find a taxi that can take you back into Durres, and it'll cost a fortune. Remember, ride share apps do not work in Albania as of 2025. * {{go | name=Bus Terminal | alt=Stacioni I Autobuzave | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31783 | long=19.45375 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content=Buses and furgons from Tirana usually arrive at this bus terminal with the "Durrës" logo on the outside near the old railway station. There are also some international connections and a direct airport bus. }} * {{go | name=Plepat Bus Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.29226 | long=19.50961 | directions=At the southern end of the promenade/beach. Take a local bus from the City Bus Terminal to get here. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=This is the bus station where buses from Tirana and most southern destinations, like [[Berat]] (450 lek), will stop to drop off passengers. Most buses will not head into the centre of Durrës. This is the only place with regular connections heading south. }} From specific destinations: * [[Tirana]] – The buses depart from the Northern Bus Station in Tirana near the Casa Italia shopping center. The ride takes around 45 min and costs 180 lek (Dec 2024). The bus operates daily every 30 min from 06:30 to 19:30. * [[Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza]] – The buses all depart south of the airport terminal. It should go every 1–2 hr. Price (Dec 2024): 600 lek. * [[Skopje]] (North Macedonia) – Buses run through Durrës on their way to Tirana. A typical Skopje-Tirana ticket costs around €25 return. * [[Kumanovo]] (North Macedonia) – There is a daily direct bus line to Durrës. The cost of tickets is around €20. * [[Pristina]] (Kosovo) – During the summer season there are several buses a day. You should check the timetables at the Pristina bus station, but in 2013 the timetable was as follows; 04:00, 05:00, 06:00 and 06:30 and then at 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00 and 23:00. There are at least a couple of buses going back at 16:00 and 17:00. Return ticket costs about €20. The trip takes around 4–5½ hr, depending on whether it goes via Prizren. Buses ran by Artiti Tours depart and arrive from the {{marker|type=go|name=Rrota e Kuqe stop|lat=41.3104760|long=19.4850781}} by a roundabout near the middle of Rruga Pavaresia street running parallel, and very close, to the beach. Tickets can be booked online at [https://travel.gjirafa.com Gjirafa] or [https://www.autobus.al/en/ Autobus.al]. The bus stop can be reached on foot in about ½ hr from the city centre. Alternatively, take a taxi (about €8) or use a bus running along Rruga Pavaresia from the city centre. ===By car=== There is a road between here and [[Tirana]], the SH2, which takes just over half an hour for the journey. You could [[Tirana#By plane|fly into]] Tirana, then drive or get a taxi to Durrës, with the airport connecting to the SH2 by the SH60. Also from Vorë and Shijak from main roads and highways. ===By commuter train=== Construction is underway for 2027, from Triana to Durres, and the Airport. ==Get around== {{mapframe|41.313| 19.442|zoom=15|layer=W}} === On foot === The city centre where the archaeological sites are located can be toured on foot. Durrës is a relatively compact city, so many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center and along the waterfront. If you're open to a longer walk, it's easy to get all the way to South Durres from the city core, and even further south than that, until you reach a part of the beach that's owned by the Albanian military and impassable. === By bus === Durrës has a public bus system that connects various parts of the city. Public buses are orange. You can purchase tickets from kiosks or directly from the bus driver or a controller who goes around the bus to sell & check tickets. Bus schedules may vary, so it is a good idea to check in advance. ==== Getting to the beach area of the city ==== Once you arrive at the Durrës bus station, there is a small Bus traffic sign with many people. From there you can take a bus with the sign Durazzo (or Durrës) Plepa. The bus stops at several designated stops along the Rruga Paveresia boulevard, i.e. along the beach (40 lek as of 2024). === By taxi === Many taxis are available in Durrës, and they are a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling to destinations not easily accessible by bus. You can find them parked everywhere on the streets with a taxi symbol on the top of their car. Make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver or demand to go with meter before starting your journey or you will definitely be overcharged. ==See== Durrës has layers of Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, royal Albanian, communist-era and modern history. The main sights are concentrated around the old city centre, with several important coastal and religious sites further afield. ===Religious sites=== ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Shen Lucia Catholic Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Luçia, Saint Lucia Catholic Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Don Nikoll Kacorri | lat= | long= | directions=In the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1907, this is one of the main Catholic churches in Durrës. It has simple Western-style architecture combined with local Albanian elements and remains an important place for Catholic worship, community gatherings, Christmas, Easter and other religious celebrations. }} * {{see | name=Shen Gjergji Orthodox Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Gjergjit, Saint George Orthodox Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Vath Turja | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 19th century and closely connected to the Orthodox Christian community of Durrës. The building contains Byzantine architectural features, including traditional domes and icons. Inside, visitors can see religious paintings and decorative iconography, making it useful both for worshippers and for travellers interested in the city’s religious history. }} * {{see | name=Saint Asti and Saint Paul Orthodox Church | alt=Katedralja Ortodokse e Shën Palit dhe Shën Asti | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4488 | directions=Near the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:30 - 20:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=The main Orthodox cathedral of Durrës. Built in 2001 after the revival of religious life in Albania following communism, it is considered one of the largest modern Orthodox churches in the country. It has a large central dome, Byzantine-style frescoes and is named after Saint Paul and Saint Asti, the first Christian martyr associated with Durrës. It is used for major religious ceremonies and official Orthodox Church events. }} ====Mosques==== * {{see | name=Fatih Mosque | alt=Xhamia Fatih | url= | email= | address=Rruga Xhamia, close to the historical centre and the Roman Amphitheatre | lat=41.311102 | long=19.445970 | directions=Near the Roman Amphitheatre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally; avoid prayer times if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Fatih Mosque, Durrës | image=Xhamia e Fatihut.jpg | wikidata=Q1398072 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1503 during the Ottoman period and named after Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, known as Fatih. It is one of the oldest mosques in Albania. The mosque has suffered damage from earthquakes and wars but has been restored several times, and its minaret and design represent classical Ottoman religious architecture. }} * {{see | name=Great Mosque of Durrës | alt=Xhamia e Madhe e Durrësit, New Mosque, Grand Mosque | url= | email= | address=Rruga Aleksander Goga, Durrës | lat=41.313297 | long=19.445461 | directions=City centre, near Sheshi Liria | phone= | tollfree= | hours=06:00-09:30; visitors should avoid the busy Friday midday prayer if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Great Mosque of Durrës | image=Great Mosque in Durrës.JPG | wikidata=Q18888007 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Known locally as the Great Mosque. Built in 1937, it is sometimes called the New Mosque because it was constructed later than the older Ottoman mosques. It is one of the main Islamic religious centres in the city, with a large prayer hall and modern Islamic architecture. During Islamic holidays such as Eid, it becomes an important gathering place for worshippers. }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Archaeological Museum | alt=Muzeu Arkeologjik | url=https://m.facebook.com/muzeuarkeologjikDurrës/ | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia 32 | lat=41.311389 | long=19.440278 | directions=Near the seafront promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Durrës Archaeological Museum | wikidata=Q5316767 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The main archaeological museum of Durrës, normally focused on finds from ancient Dyrrhachium and the surrounding region. It is temporarily closed until sometime in 2026, so check locally before planning a visit. }} * {{see | image= | name=Popular Culture Museum | alt=Muzeu i Kulturës Popullore | url= | email= | address=Kavaje village, Rruga Skuraj | lat=41.180 | long=19.5549 | directions=S 18 km | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small local museum connected with traditional culture and daily life in the Durrës region. It may be useful for visitors interested in rural customs, folk objects and local heritage, but opening times should be checked locally. }} * {{see | name=World War II Relics Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3189417553968 | long=19.444248967878107 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small collection or hall connected with World War II memory in Durrës. Verify access and opening times locally, as information may be limited. }} * {{see | image= | name=Koloseo Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Gallery showcasing work by local painters and artists. Useful for visitors who want to see contemporary visual art in Durrës beyond the archaeological and historic sights. }} ===Ancient and medieval monuments=== [[File:Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg|thumb|Durrës, Roman Amphitheater]] * {{see | name=Durrës Amphitheatre | alt=Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kalase | lat=41.312222 | long=19.444867 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | wikipedia=Durrës Amphitheatre | image=Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg | wikidata=Q779868 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The largest Roman amphitheatre in the Balkans and the best-known ancient monument in Durrës. It includes restored iconography, underground passages below the seating area and a central grassy arena. It is one of the most important places for understanding the Roman layer of ancient Dyrrhachium. }} * {{see | name=Durrës Ancient City Wall | alt=Kalaja e Durrësit, Byzantine and Venetian walls | url= | email= | address=Rruga Sotir Noka | lat=41.3126 | long=19.4441 | directions=Next to the Amphitheater | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Surviving sections of the ancient and medieval walls of Durrës, close to the amphitheatre and old city centre. Around the walls are other historic features, including the Medieval Hammam and the Tophane Well. }} * {{see | name=Venetian Tower | alt=Rotonda, Kalaja | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3097 | long=19.4469 | directions=Near the old city walls and central promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | image=Durrës Albania 1.jpg | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=Circular defensive tower in the city centre, built in the 16th century and associated with the Venetian fortifications of Durrës. Visitors can climb steep stairs to the top and see a multimedia presentation projected inside the dome. }} * {{see | image= | name=Shen Mehilli Hill | alt=Kodra e Shen Mehillit, Saint Michael Hill, Basilica of Saint Michael | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës, near Arapaj | phone= | hours=Open archaeological area; check access locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Hill and archaeological area associated with the early Christian Basilica of Saint Michael, a 5th- or 6th-century site with mosaic remains. The area is also linked with the 1081 battle between Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos and Norman leader Robert Guiscard. }} * {{see | name=Byzantine Forum | alt=Macellum | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31503961305186 | long=19.44581838485815 | directions=Near the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public archaeological area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 5th century AD, the Byzantine Forum, also known as the Macellum, preserves remains of the ancient public space of the city. Public baths are around and beneath the Alexander Moissi Palace of Culture area. }} ===Historic residences and villas=== [[File:Villa e Zogut.jpg|thumb|King Zog's Villa]] * {{see | name=King Zog's Villa | alt=Vila e Zogut, Royal Villa of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kont Urani | lat=41.314724 | long=19.438698 | directions=On top of a hill overlooking the city | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually closed or irregular access; check locally before visiting | price= | wikipedia=Royal Villa of Durrës | image=Palace of king Zog durres.jpg | wikidata=Q13530086 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Former royal summer residence of King Zog, completed in 1937. It stands on a hill above Durrës and is known for its views over the bay, Italian Rationalist architecture and role in Albania's royal and 20th-century political history. The building has been damaged and interior access may be restricted, but the walk up is worthwhile for the façade and panorama. }} * {{see | image= | name=Aleksandër Moisiu House-Museum | alt=Shtepia Muze Aleksandër Moisiu, Alexander Moissi Museum House | url=https://akt.gov.al/en/atraksionet/shtepia-muze-aleksander-moisiu/ | email= | address=Rruga Kolonel Tomson, Durrës | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4460 | directions=In the historic centre, near the amphitheatre and Byzantine walls | phone=+355 52 223 150 | hours=Usually M-F 08:00-15:00; check before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Rare surviving 19th-century urban house in Durrës, associated with actor Aleksandër Moisiu. It has functioned as a house-museum and ethnographic museum, with displays on local daily life, folk clothing, household objects and Moisiu's life and career. }} * {{see | name=Old Doors Trail | alt=Path of Doors, Shtegu i Dyerve të Vjetra | url=https://www.muzehlab.org.al/old-doors-trail-in-durres/ | email=muzehlab@gmail.com | address=Old city centre, Durrës | lat=41.3123 | long=19.4462 | directions=Self-guided walking route through old Durrës | phone=+355 67 613 3262 | tollfree= | hours=Self-guided; contact MuZEH Lab for guided visits | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Heritage walking route through old Durrës focused on historic doors, family houses, courtyards and urban memory. Stops include old family houses and historic residences such as Villa Tedeschini, as well as streets around the older parts of the city. }} ===Civic buildings and other landmarks=== * {{see | name=Municipality | alt=Bashkia | url=http://www.Durrës.gov.al | email= | address=Sheshi Liria, 15 | lat=41.3127 | long=19.4463 | directions=On the main central square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Exterior view only unless visiting municipal offices | price=Free | image=Rathaus von Durres.jpg | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Municipal building on Sheshi Liria, one of the main civic spaces of central Durrës. It is useful as a landmark when navigating between the mosque, amphitheatre, Venetian Tower and old city streets. }} * {{see | image= | name=Kavaja Rock | alt=Shkembi i Kavajes | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.2779 | long=19.5192 | directions=SE 5 km, near Golem | phone= | hours=Open public landmark | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic landmark in Golem where caravans once passed along the ancient Via Egnatia. It is traditionally linked with a battle between Pompey and Julius Caesar and is also a useful coastal landmark south of Durrës. }} ===Old villages and rural heritage=== * {{see | name=Arapaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area; archaeological access may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village southeast of Durrës known for the nearby Basilica of Saint Michael and early Christian mosaic remains. It is useful for visitors interested in the rural edge of ancient Durrës and archaeological sites outside the city centre. }} * {{see | name=Shetaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shetaj, Durrës County | lat=41.567 | long=19.496 | directions=North of Durrës, on the way toward Cape of Rodon | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village in the northern coastal hinterland of Durrës County, useful as a base or stop when visiting Cape of Rodon, Rodoni Castle and nearby rural landscapes. It is better for visitors with a car. }} ===Natural and coastal landmarks=== * {{see | name=Lalzit Bay Area | alt=Gjiri i Lalëzit, Lalëz Bay | url=https://m.facebook.com/GjiriILazit/ | email= | address= | lat=41.4525 | long=19.4876 | directions=N 27 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open coastal area | price=Free; beach facilities may charge in season | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Long sandy bay north of Durrës, known for quieter beach areas, pine-backed coastline and access to Ishem Castle and Rrushkull Nature Reserve. It is best reached by car and is popular for beach stays outside central Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Rrushkull Nature Reserve | alt=Rezervati Rrushkull | url= | email= | address=Rrushkull, Durrës County | lat=41.435 | long=19.515 | directions=North of Durrës, near Lalzit Bay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open natural area; access conditions may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Coastal wetland and nature reserve near Lalzit Bay. It is mainly useful for visitors interested in quiet landscapes, birdlife, lagoons, dunes and natural areas outside the city. }} ===Further afield=== [[File:View of Lezhë.jpg|thumb|Lezhe]] * {{see | name=Rodoni Castle | alt=Kalaja e Rodonit | url= | email= | address=Cape of Rodon | lat=41.585982 | long=19.447504 | directions=Cape of Rodon, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check road and access conditions | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Ruined coastal castle at Cape of Rodon, traditionally associated with Skanderbeg. The site combines history, sea views, coastal walking and nearby religious heritage, and is best reached by car from Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Scanderbeg Castle | alt=Sebastia's Castle, Kalaja e Skënderbeut | url= | email= | address=Rruga e Sebastes, Laç village | lat=41.628339 | long=19.726932 | directions=N 33 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic castle site near Laç village. It is outside Durrës city and works best as a further-afield excursion for travellers exploring northern coastal and inland heritage sites. }} * {{see | name=Shen Ndout Church | alt=Kisha e Shna Ndout, Church of Saint Anthony | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kisha e Shna Ndout, Laç | lat=41.62898 | long=19.733149 | directions=Near Laç, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Active religious site; check pilgrimage and service times | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Important Catholic pilgrimage church near Laç. It is outside the city but can be combined with other northern excursions from Durrës, especially for visitors interested in religious sites and Albanian pilgrimage traditions. }} == Learn == * The '''Museum of Martyrs and Hall of War Relics''' on Rruga Aleksander Goga has a sizable public library on the second floor, with books in many European languages. The focus is definitely more on childrens books than not, but it's still a good resource for anyone who needs to do some research or just stay entertained. As of 2025, the hours were 08:00-16:00. ==Do== * {{do | name=Culture Palace | alt= | url= | email=| address=Bulevardi Dyrrah | lat=41.3144 | long=19.4465| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Events }} * {{do | name=Evening walk | address= | lat= | long= | directions= promenade | content=Go for an evening walk along the sea front promenade or along the beach. }} * {{do | name=Villa Hill | alt=Kodra e Viles | url= | email=| address=Rruga Currila | lat=41.318185 | long=19.433438| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Panoramic view of Durrës seaside at Currilat from top of a newly reclaimed hill. }} * {{do | name=Seaside Large Steps | alt=Shkallet tek Brryli | url= | email=| address=Intersection between Rruga Currila and Rruga Taulantia| lat=41.310852 | long=19.435305| directions=Brryli area| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Sit and admire the sea from up close on these large steps descending into the water}} [[File:Stadiumi Niko Dovana.jpg|thumb|right|Stadium Niko Dovana]] * '''Football:''' [https://www.kfteuta.com/ KF Teuta]{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} play football in Kategoria Superiore, the country's top tier. Their home ground is Niko Dovana Stadium, capacity 12,000, one km north of the ferry port. ===Beaches=== [[File:Durres in summer.JPG|thumb|City beach]] * {{do | name=Lalzit Bay Beach | alt=Gjiri i Lalzit | url= | email= | address=near Hamallaj village | lat=41.3968 | long=19.4214 | directions=25 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular weekend retreat and exclusive wealthy beach area. A small resort can be found here. }} * {{do | name=Portez Beach | alt=Plazhi Portez | url= | email= | address=Bishti Palles | lat=41.4001 | long=19.404 | directions=13 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Durres in summer.JPG | content=Nice beach, bar, and wooden bungalows north of Currilat }} * {{do | name=Golem beach | alt=Plazhi Golemit/Mali i Robit | url= | email= | address=Golem, Mali Robit, Kavaja Rock (Shkembi i Kavajes) | lat=41.2509 | long=19.5194 | directions=follow SH4 and enter secondary road at Plepat roundabout (SH56, SH85) or continue along SH4 and exit at Golem/Mali Robit exit | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-05 | content=This is the main seaside resort south of Durrës with long sandy beaches popular with both Albanians and foreigners. Tirana inhabitants have their beach houses and villas in the area for weekend and summer retreats. }} ===Diving=== * {{do | name=Sea Resort of Golem|alt= |url=https://diammaresort.al/en/ |email=| address=Diamma Resort, Rruga Kompleksit|lat=41.266001| long=19.519762| directions=S 7 km| phone=+355 69 666 1555 |hours= | price=| content=Take a dip in the Adriatic Sea water in the biggest sea side resort of Golem. }} === Events === * {{listing | name=Durrës International Biennale of Contemporary Art | alt=DIBoCA | url=https://durresbiennale.org/en/home | email=durresbiennale@gmail.com | address=Lagja 12, Rruga Abaz Çelkupa, Durrës | lat=41.318463 | long=19.452563 | directions=Near the city centre | phone=+355 69 472 7490 | tollfree= | hours=Biennial; check the official website for current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Biennial contemporary art exhibition supported by the Municipality of Durrës. It brings Albanian and international artists to the city through exhibitions, workshops, talks, and contemporary visual art projects. }} * {{listing | name=International Music Festival of Chamber Music | alt=Chamber Fest Durrës | url=https://www.chamberfestdurres.com/ | email= | address=Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral, Durrës | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=In the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the current programme | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Annual chamber music festival held in Durrës since 2006. It brings Albanian and international instrumentalists together for classical concerts, often in historic venues such as Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Durrës | alt=International Music Festival Festival Days in Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/ | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Performances are usually held in public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in early July; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music, folklore, and dance festival with parades, stage performances, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups from different countries. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Fest | alt=International Festival Durrës Fest | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/festivals/1108-5410-international-festival-durres-fest-summer | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central public spaces and performance venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folk, music, and dance festival focused on cultural exchange. Groups from different countries perform traditional and modern dances, choral music, orchestral music, and majorette programmes. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Albania | alt=International Folklore Festival Durrës | url=https://mioff.org/booking/xxix-festival-days-in-albania/ | email=office@mioff.org | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central performance areas and nearby hotels | phone=+389 78 700 619 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late June; check current dates before travelling | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folklore festival for folk groups, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups. The programme usually includes parades, performances, and optional sightseeing around Durrës. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Sunset | alt=International Music and Folk-Dance Festival Durrës Sunset | url=https://festival-association.eu/fest/688 | email=info@festival-association.eu | address=Durrës beach area | lat=41.289722 | long=19.513333 | directions=Usually based around beach hotels and public performance spaces | phone=+389 71 376 151 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music and folk-dance festival for children's, youth, and adult ensembles. The programme usually includes a city parade, public performances, a gala evening, and sightseeing. }} * {{listing | name=Dances in Durrës | alt=International Festival Dancing in Durrës | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/news/2025-11-10-international-festival-dances-in-durres-brings-cultures-together-from-around-the-world-in | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International dance and folklore festival with parades, evening performances, cultural walks, and music groups from different countries. It is aimed at dance ensembles, choirs, folklore groups, and modern dance groups. }} * {{listing | name=Summer Stars of Durrës | alt=International Competition and Festival of Arts Summer Stars of Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/en/festivals/1153-4768-international-competition-and-festival-of-arts-summer-stars-of-durres | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Check the organiser's current venue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in August 2024 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International arts competition and festival for soloists, ensembles, and young performers. It includes dance, choral, orchestral, modern, pop, jazz, hip-hop, and majorette categories. Confirm current editions before planning a visit. }} * {{listing | name=Roots of Durrës | alt=Roots of Durrës: Folk Traditions Festival | url=https://www.wofafestivals.com/news/roots-of-durres-folk-traditions-festival-2025/ | email=info@wofafestivals.com | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone=+389 75 491 218 | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in June 2025 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Folk traditions festival that has brought international folklore ensembles to perform in Durrës, including at the ancient amphitheatre. Confirm whether a current edition is scheduled before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Festa e Ullirit | alt=Olive Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually held around central cultural venues | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late October; check local announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Local festival celebrating the olive harvest and Durrës' connection with olive cultivation. It usually includes music, performances, local traditions, and honours for notable citizens. }} * {{listing | name=Art Explora Festival | alt= | url=https://www.artexplora.org/en/festival/city/durres | email= | address=Port of Durrës, Durrës | lat=41.308330 | long=19.454170 | directions=At the port quay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Occasional travelling festival; held in Durrës in April 2025 | price=Free admission or reservation-based depending on activity | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Travelling Mediterranean cultural festival with a museum boat, exhibitions, immersive experiences, talks, performances, workshops, concerts, and film screenings. It visited Durrës in 2025, but future stops should be confirmed from the official programme. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës International Film Summerfest | alt=Durrës International Film Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Historical event; check local cultural announcements for any revival | price= | wikidata=Q18351819 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International film festival founded in 2008 and historically held in Durrës, including at the amphitheatre and other cultural venues. Recent regular editions could not be confirmed, so do not rely on old official websites. }} * {{listing | name=Vox Baroque | alt=International Baroque Music Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Venues may vary; past performances have used heritage sites | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; check current announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Early music festival focused on Baroque repertoire and historical instruments. It has included Durrës among its Albanian heritage destinations, but current local dates should be verified before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Balkans Joint Conference and Exhibition | alt= | url=https://balkansjointconference.org/ | email= | address=Grand Blue Fafa Resort, Durrës | lat=41.269722 | long=19.519444 | directions=South of central Durrës, near the beach resort area | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually announced by edition; check the official conference website | price=Registration required | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Regional professional conference and technical exhibition for the water supply and wastewater sector. It brings together utilities, experts, companies, and public institutions from the Balkans. }} ==Buy== * Kokomani Wine— Albanian wine produced by Kokomani Winery, known for red and white wines made from local and international grape varieties. Bottles of wine and homemade raki are commonly sold in wine shops, supermarkets and souvenir stores in Durrës, and are popular gifts for visitors. * Souvenirs— Tourist souvenirs sold throughout Durrës include magnets, postcards, Albanian flag items, handmade jewellery, miniature amphora decorations and locally crafted gifts inspired by the city’s Roman and coastal heritage. * Sea Souvenirs— Shops near the beach sell seashell decorations, handmade marine crafts, beach-themed ornaments and Adriatic-inspired gifts commonly bought by summer tourists. * Household goods — Local markets and small stores offer practical household products, kitchenware, textiles and handmade wooden items used in traditional Albanian homes. * Traditional Albanian products— Traditional Albanian products available in Durrës include olive oil, mountain tea, local honey, dried herbs, filigree crafts, handmade carpets and bottles of raki produced in different regions of Albania. Many are sold in souvenir shops and artisan markets around the city. ==Eat== ===Budget=== ====In the city centre==== * {{eat | name=SAF - Gatime tradicionale | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31929 | long=19.45303 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-15:00 | price=200-500 lek | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Very traditional lunch menu. Every day they will have cooked something new and fresh. Prices are more than decent and food is delicious. }} * {{eat | name=Sema | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/SEMARestaurantDurrës/ | email= | address= | lat=41.313309 | long=19.446844 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa. Make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at round about take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia; bear right onto street H.Troplini. Turn right to stay on street H.Troplini; keep straight onto road; arrive on the right; there is Sema restaurant. | phone=+355 672033224 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:59 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rehat Kebab | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3144571 | long= 19.4471379 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Around the Ventus Harbour pier==== * {{eat | name=Mema House | alt= | url= | email=memahouse@hotmail.com | address=Taulantia Street | lat=41.310814 | long=19.441229 | directions=head east on Adria Street toward J.Ballhysa Street; make a U-turn to stay on Adria Street; at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Egnatia Promenade; at the next roundabout, take the 1st exit and bear right onto Taulantia Promenade | phone=+355 697541068 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Piceri Belvedere | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia | lat=41.3108788 | long=19.4374212 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Near the city centre==== * {{eat | name=Piceri 2 Engjejt | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Hysen Myshketa | lat=41.3221725 | long=19.4474410 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Pizza}} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Bar Restorant Kajser | alt= | url= | email=| address= | lat= | long= | directions=near King Zog's Villa| phone=| hours= | price= Delicious ice cream combinations including baked ice cream (400 lek), spaghetti, fish and baked lamb| content=it offers a panoramic view of Durrës from above. }} * {{eat | name=Splendid Restorant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Egnatia | lat=41.309062 | long=19.445899 | directions=from street Adria, toward street Adria; at roundabout 1st exit onto promenade Egnatia; arrive at promenade Egnatia on the left, you can find Splendid restaurant | phone=+355 692824222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Especially known locally for fish. Everything is fresh, tasty and served in the most professional way. Prices are slightly more than average for Albania, but for the whole experience of eating you get there it's worth every Lec. }} * {{eat | name=Neps | alt= | url=https://www.instagram.com/neps.Durrës/ | email= | address= | lat= 41.3140238 | long=19.4338833 | directions=from Durrës railway station, take street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria; at the roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia. At roundabout, take the 1st exit; bear right onto promenade Taulantia; the road name changes to street of Currila and there you can find Neps restaurant | phone=+355 694609111 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Restaurant in industrial style near the sea. }} * {{eat | name=Pastiçeri Pelikani 1 | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Pavaresia | lat= | long= | directions=near Hotel Adriatic | phone=+355 683095270 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=You can eat different sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Rooftop XV | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/fly.restaurant.Durrës/ | email=fly.Durrës@gmail.com | address=Street Erazmi | lat=41.310318 | long=19.448046 | directions= | phone=+355 684058103 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This restaurant has a breathtaking view from the 15th/top floor. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Tirona | alt= | url= | email= | address=SH4, Rruga Pavaresia, Durrës 2001 | lat=41.315426 | long=19.470471 | directions= | phone=+355 682010358 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-20 | content=A local's favourite, Restaurant Tirona in Durrës, it has a great selection of fresh sea-food at very affordable prices. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Restorant Piazza |alt=Restorant Piazza|url=http://www.restorantpiazza.com| email= |address=Rruga Taulantia 1| lat=41.30889 |long=19.4464 |directions=near the port|phone=+355 52 237601 |hours=08:00-23:00| price=| lastedit=2022-05-01 |content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Venetian Tower (Rotonda) bar|alt= |url= |email=| address=| lat= |long= | directions=on top of the Venetian Tower| phone=|hours= |price=|content=It offers a nice view of Durrës and its coastline. }} * {{drink | name=788 cocktail bar Durrës | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/788.CocktailBar | email=kokaemilian@hotmail.com | address= | lat=41.311132 | long=19.446449 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay street Adria at aroundabout, take 2nd onto promenade Egnatia; bear right, and then be right onto street H.Troplini; turn left onto street Dok Margariti; turn right onto street De Rada and then immediately turn right onto street Epidamni; turn left onto street Mosque | phone=+355 692121788 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=Nice music, great cocktails and that seaside summer breeze. During winter instead, live music, different events and local activities. ''(Tower is under construction as of 2022-05-08.)'' }} * {{drink | name=Bonsai Caffe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Bonsai-Caff%C3%A9/100010089723822 | email=ninikoka7@gmail.com | address= | lat= 41.3186186 | long=19.4462547 | directions=from Durrës railway station, go right street Adria, continuing with Martyrs street; welded with Kerol Bar | phone=+355 674999111 | tollfree= |fax=| hours=07:00-23:00 | price= |wikidata=| lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=A nice selection of drinks and a very welcoming environment. }} * {{drink | name=Portiku Wine Bar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pg/portikuwinebar/about/?entry_point=page_nav_about_item&tab=page_info | email= | address= | lat=41.309926 | long=19.447359 | directions=from railway station, depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia there at roundabout take 1st exit. Turn right at street Epidamni | phone=+355 686080666 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 09:00-23:30, Th 09:00-23:00, F 09:00-23:45, Sa Su 09:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Arragosta Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.aragosta.al/sq/ | email=reservation@arragosta.al | address=Neighborhood 1, street Taulantia, Currila | lat=41.318272 | long=19.45344 | directions= | phone=+355 52 226 477 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content=4-star beachfront hotel in the Currila area offering modern rooms, a private beach area and an on-site seafood restaurant. Popular for sea views and its location near the promenade and historic center. Traditional Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine available. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Adriatik | alt= | url=http://www.adriatikhotel.com/ | email=info@adriatikhotel.com | address=Lagjia 13, Rruga Pavaresia, Plazh Durrës | lat=41.3053 | long=19.4917 | directions=near the beach | phone=+355 52 260850 | tollfree= | fax=+355 52 260855 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from €100 (April 2026) |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Historic five-star seaside hotel located in the Plazh area of Durrës. Features a private beach, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, spa facilities, conference areas and several restaurants and bars. Popular with business travelers and summer tourists. }} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Arvi|alt=|url=http://hotelarvi.com|email=|address=Rruga Taulantia 16| lat=41.3105| long=19.4433|directions=Center|phone=+355 52 230403|price=Single from €60 (2014.jun)|checkin=12:00-22:00|checkout=07:00-11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Central waterfront hotel near the city promenade and archaeological sites. Offers sea-view rooms, restaurant facilities and easy access to cafés and nightlife in the center of Durrës. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Lido Durrës | alt= | url=https://katestravelexperience.eu/lido-albania | email= | address=Lagja.2; Rruga Aleksander Goga | lat=41.31511 | long=19.44525 | directions= | phone=+355 52 227941 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from around €50 |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Mid-range city hotel located near the center and port area. Offers comfortable rooms, breakfast service and convenient access to shops, restaurants and public transport. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Nais|url=https://hotelnais.com/ |email= |address=Lagia 1, Rruga Naim Frasheri nr.46|lat=41.3107 |long=19.4466| directions=from the port: 100 meters toward the town center; left on Naim Frasheri street, behind the tower |phone=| hours= | price=Double rooms from around €40| checkin= | checkout=11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Three-star hotel located close to the port and town center, within walking distance of the main promenade. Known for quiet rooms and included breakfast despite its central location.}} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Pepeto|url=http://hotelpepeto.webs.com/|email=|address=Mbreti MONUM Nr.3, Rruga Ramazan Jella|lat=41.3136|long=19.4473|directions=|phone=+355 52 224190|price= |checkin=|checkout=|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Small boutique-style hotel in the historic center near the Venetian Tower and archaeological attractions. Offers modern rooms and easy access to restaurants and cafés around the old town. }} * {{sleep | name=Premium Hotel Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Golem Long Beach 2504 | lat=41.259048 | long=19.447398 | directions= | phone=+355 676041008 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-05 | content=Modern beachfront hotel in the Golem area south of Durrës. Features restaurants, bars and evening entertainment including live DJs during the summer season. Popular with beach holiday visitors. }} * {{sleep | name=Crowne Plazza Durres | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/gb/en/durres/tiaab/hoteldetail?cm_mmc=YextLocal-_-CP-_-AL-_-TIAAB | email= | address= | lat=41.3087 | long=19.4458 | directions=Central, promenade | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-01 | content=5 Star experience on the waterfront, promenade. Newly opened in 2026. Luxury waterfront hotel on the central promenade offering modern rooms, sea views, upscale dining and five-star facilities. Located close to beaches, nightlife and the city center. }} == Connect == 5G available now (2026). As of Sep 2021, Vodafone has the best coverage, with 4G in Durrës, the other main towns, and highways between. One and ALB have 4G in Durrës but less coverage elsewhere. 5G has not been rolled out in Albania. == Go next == * [[Tirana]] the capital is ringed by trees and mountains. Mount Dajt has great views of the city. * [[Kruje]] in the hills above Tirana has museums and an old castle. * [[Lezhe]] has Skanderbeg's Tomb, panoramic Lezhe Castle and several renovated churches * [[Fier]] is a lively seaside city, near the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia. * Fushë-Krujë its near with Durrës {{geo|41.323|19.441}} {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Coastal Albania}} {{related|Ferries_in_the_Mediterranean}} 6axmjv5zw09hv1837axbfc2mdm6h4mh 5288851 5288850 2026-06-06T13:22:06Z ~2026-25168-20 2396992 /* By bus */ They do 5288851 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Durrës banner.jpg|caption=Roman circus panorama}} '''Durrës''' is [[Albania|Albania's]] chief port. Located on the shores of the Adriatic, Durrës is a lively town, organized around beach culture. ==Understand== In parts Durrës is attractive and well maintained. In others it is somewhat ramshackle, with both active and what appears to be abandoned development co-existing next to each other. To some degree, this is a feature of Durres geology. The area is in a tectonically active zone, with extremely unstable geology. The next earthquake will cause the ground to undergo liquefaction again, and much of the new development will have to be pruned back once more, before regrowing. Still, the city is alive. There are abundant shops, retail stalls and street traders. They appear to trade from early morning until late and provide an attractive "always on" vibe to the city. It has ferries to [[Bari]] and Ancona in ([[Italy]]) and bus connections to other Albanian and international destinations, often via Tirana. Alternative spellings of the city's name are ''Durazzo'' (Italian), ''Drač'' (Драч, Serbo-Croatian) or ''Dyrrhachion'' (Δυρράχιον, Greek). ==Get in== ===By boat=== [[File:Durrës Albania.jpg|thumb|Durrës panoramic view]] * {{go | name=Ferry Terminal | alt=Terminali i Trageteve | url=https://www.Durrësport.al/ | email= | address= | lat=41.31587 | long=19.45447 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q100343249 | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content= }} From specific destinations: * [[Bari]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [https://www.gnv.it/en , GNV Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Ventouris [https://ventourisferries.com/en/ Ferries] * [[Ancona]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} * [[Trieste]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries] ===By bus=== If arriving to Durres by bus, make sure that you get off ''before'' the bus turns onto the highway going south towards Golem. The highway is very difficult to turn around on, and if you end up significantly south of Durres proper, it will be very difficult to find a taxi that can take you back into Durres, and it'll cost a fortune. * {{go | name=Bus Terminal | alt=Stacioni I Autobuzave | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31783 | long=19.45375 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content=Buses and furgons from Tirana usually arrive at this bus terminal with the "Durrës" logo on the outside near the old railway station. There are also some international connections and a direct airport bus. }} * {{go | name=Plepat Bus Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.29226 | long=19.50961 | directions=At the southern end of the promenade/beach. Take a local bus from the City Bus Terminal to get here. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=This is the bus station where buses from Tirana and most southern destinations, like [[Berat]] (450 lek), will stop to drop off passengers. Most buses will not head into the centre of Durrës. This is the only place with regular connections heading south. }} From specific destinations: * [[Tirana]] – The buses depart from the Northern Bus Station in Tirana near the Casa Italia shopping center. The ride takes around 45 min and costs 180 lek (Dec 2024). The bus operates daily every 30 min from 06:30 to 19:30. * [[Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza]] – The buses all depart south of the airport terminal. It should go every 1–2 hr. Price (Dec 2024): 600 lek. * [[Skopje]] (North Macedonia) – Buses run through Durrës on their way to Tirana. A typical Skopje-Tirana ticket costs around €25 return. * [[Kumanovo]] (North Macedonia) – There is a daily direct bus line to Durrës. The cost of tickets is around €20. * [[Pristina]] (Kosovo) – During the summer season there are several buses a day. You should check the timetables at the Pristina bus station, but in 2013 the timetable was as follows; 04:00, 05:00, 06:00 and 06:30 and then at 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00 and 23:00. There are at least a couple of buses going back at 16:00 and 17:00. Return ticket costs about €20. The trip takes around 4–5½ hr, depending on whether it goes via Prizren. Buses ran by Artiti Tours depart and arrive from the {{marker|type=go|name=Rrota e Kuqe stop|lat=41.3104760|long=19.4850781}} by a roundabout near the middle of Rruga Pavaresia street running parallel, and very close, to the beach. Tickets can be booked online at [https://travel.gjirafa.com Gjirafa] or [https://www.autobus.al/en/ Autobus.al]. The bus stop can be reached on foot in about ½ hr from the city centre. Alternatively, take a taxi (about €8) or use a bus running along Rruga Pavaresia from the city centre. ===By car=== There is a road between here and [[Tirana]], the SH2, which takes just over half an hour for the journey. You could [[Tirana#By plane|fly into]] Tirana, then drive or get a taxi to Durrës, with the airport connecting to the SH2 by the SH60. Also from Vorë and Shijak from main roads and highways. ===By commuter train=== Construction is underway for 2027, from Triana to Durres, and the Airport. ==Get around== {{mapframe|41.313| 19.442|zoom=15|layer=W}} === On foot === The city centre where the archaeological sites are located can be toured on foot. Durrës is a relatively compact city, so many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center and along the waterfront. If you're open to a longer walk, it's easy to get all the way to South Durres from the city core, and even further south than that, until you reach a part of the beach that's owned by the Albanian military and impassable. === By bus === Durrës has a public bus system that connects various parts of the city. Public buses are orange. You can purchase tickets from kiosks or directly from the bus driver or a controller who goes around the bus to sell & check tickets. Bus schedules may vary, so it is a good idea to check in advance. ==== Getting to the beach area of the city ==== Once you arrive at the Durrës bus station, there is a small Bus traffic sign with many people. From there you can take a bus with the sign Durazzo (or Durrës) Plepa. The bus stops at several designated stops along the Rruga Paveresia boulevard, i.e. along the beach (40 lek as of 2024). === By taxi === Many taxis are available in Durrës, and they are a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling to destinations not easily accessible by bus. You can find them parked everywhere on the streets with a taxi symbol on the top of their car. Make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver or demand to go with meter before starting your journey or you will definitely be overcharged. ==See== Durrës has layers of Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, royal Albanian, communist-era and modern history. The main sights are concentrated around the old city centre, with several important coastal and religious sites further afield. ===Religious sites=== ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Shen Lucia Catholic Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Luçia, Saint Lucia Catholic Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Don Nikoll Kacorri | lat= | long= | directions=In the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1907, this is one of the main Catholic churches in Durrës. It has simple Western-style architecture combined with local Albanian elements and remains an important place for Catholic worship, community gatherings, Christmas, Easter and other religious celebrations. }} * {{see | name=Shen Gjergji Orthodox Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Gjergjit, Saint George Orthodox Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Vath Turja | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 19th century and closely connected to the Orthodox Christian community of Durrës. The building contains Byzantine architectural features, including traditional domes and icons. Inside, visitors can see religious paintings and decorative iconography, making it useful both for worshippers and for travellers interested in the city’s religious history. }} * {{see | name=Saint Asti and Saint Paul Orthodox Church | alt=Katedralja Ortodokse e Shën Palit dhe Shën Asti | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4488 | directions=Near the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:30 - 20:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=The main Orthodox cathedral of Durrës. Built in 2001 after the revival of religious life in Albania following communism, it is considered one of the largest modern Orthodox churches in the country. It has a large central dome, Byzantine-style frescoes and is named after Saint Paul and Saint Asti, the first Christian martyr associated with Durrës. It is used for major religious ceremonies and official Orthodox Church events. }} ====Mosques==== * {{see | name=Fatih Mosque | alt=Xhamia Fatih | url= | email= | address=Rruga Xhamia, close to the historical centre and the Roman Amphitheatre | lat=41.311102 | long=19.445970 | directions=Near the Roman Amphitheatre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally; avoid prayer times if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Fatih Mosque, Durrës | image=Xhamia e Fatihut.jpg | wikidata=Q1398072 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1503 during the Ottoman period and named after Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, known as Fatih. It is one of the oldest mosques in Albania. The mosque has suffered damage from earthquakes and wars but has been restored several times, and its minaret and design represent classical Ottoman religious architecture. }} * {{see | name=Great Mosque of Durrës | alt=Xhamia e Madhe e Durrësit, New Mosque, Grand Mosque | url= | email= | address=Rruga Aleksander Goga, Durrës | lat=41.313297 | long=19.445461 | directions=City centre, near Sheshi Liria | phone= | tollfree= | hours=06:00-09:30; visitors should avoid the busy Friday midday prayer if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Great Mosque of Durrës | image=Great Mosque in Durrës.JPG | wikidata=Q18888007 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Known locally as the Great Mosque. Built in 1937, it is sometimes called the New Mosque because it was constructed later than the older Ottoman mosques. It is one of the main Islamic religious centres in the city, with a large prayer hall and modern Islamic architecture. During Islamic holidays such as Eid, it becomes an important gathering place for worshippers. }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Archaeological Museum | alt=Muzeu Arkeologjik | url=https://m.facebook.com/muzeuarkeologjikDurrës/ | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia 32 | lat=41.311389 | long=19.440278 | directions=Near the seafront promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Durrës Archaeological Museum | wikidata=Q5316767 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The main archaeological museum of Durrës, normally focused on finds from ancient Dyrrhachium and the surrounding region. It is temporarily closed until sometime in 2026, so check locally before planning a visit. }} * {{see | image= | name=Popular Culture Museum | alt=Muzeu i Kulturës Popullore | url= | email= | address=Kavaje village, Rruga Skuraj | lat=41.180 | long=19.5549 | directions=S 18 km | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small local museum connected with traditional culture and daily life in the Durrës region. It may be useful for visitors interested in rural customs, folk objects and local heritage, but opening times should be checked locally. }} * {{see | name=World War II Relics Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3189417553968 | long=19.444248967878107 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small collection or hall connected with World War II memory in Durrës. Verify access and opening times locally, as information may be limited. }} * {{see | image= | name=Koloseo Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Gallery showcasing work by local painters and artists. Useful for visitors who want to see contemporary visual art in Durrës beyond the archaeological and historic sights. }} ===Ancient and medieval monuments=== [[File:Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg|thumb|Durrës, Roman Amphitheater]] * {{see | name=Durrës Amphitheatre | alt=Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kalase | lat=41.312222 | long=19.444867 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | wikipedia=Durrës Amphitheatre | image=Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg | wikidata=Q779868 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The largest Roman amphitheatre in the Balkans and the best-known ancient monument in Durrës. It includes restored iconography, underground passages below the seating area and a central grassy arena. It is one of the most important places for understanding the Roman layer of ancient Dyrrhachium. }} * {{see | name=Durrës Ancient City Wall | alt=Kalaja e Durrësit, Byzantine and Venetian walls | url= | email= | address=Rruga Sotir Noka | lat=41.3126 | long=19.4441 | directions=Next to the Amphitheater | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Surviving sections of the ancient and medieval walls of Durrës, close to the amphitheatre and old city centre. Around the walls are other historic features, including the Medieval Hammam and the Tophane Well. }} * {{see | name=Venetian Tower | alt=Rotonda, Kalaja | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3097 | long=19.4469 | directions=Near the old city walls and central promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | image=Durrës Albania 1.jpg | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=Circular defensive tower in the city centre, built in the 16th century and associated with the Venetian fortifications of Durrës. Visitors can climb steep stairs to the top and see a multimedia presentation projected inside the dome. }} * {{see | image= | name=Shen Mehilli Hill | alt=Kodra e Shen Mehillit, Saint Michael Hill, Basilica of Saint Michael | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës, near Arapaj | phone= | hours=Open archaeological area; check access locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Hill and archaeological area associated with the early Christian Basilica of Saint Michael, a 5th- or 6th-century site with mosaic remains. The area is also linked with the 1081 battle between Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos and Norman leader Robert Guiscard. }} * {{see | name=Byzantine Forum | alt=Macellum | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31503961305186 | long=19.44581838485815 | directions=Near the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public archaeological area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 5th century AD, the Byzantine Forum, also known as the Macellum, preserves remains of the ancient public space of the city. Public baths are around and beneath the Alexander Moissi Palace of Culture area. }} ===Historic residences and villas=== [[File:Villa e Zogut.jpg|thumb|King Zog's Villa]] * {{see | name=King Zog's Villa | alt=Vila e Zogut, Royal Villa of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kont Urani | lat=41.314724 | long=19.438698 | directions=On top of a hill overlooking the city | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually closed or irregular access; check locally before visiting | price= | wikipedia=Royal Villa of Durrës | image=Palace of king Zog durres.jpg | wikidata=Q13530086 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Former royal summer residence of King Zog, completed in 1937. It stands on a hill above Durrës and is known for its views over the bay, Italian Rationalist architecture and role in Albania's royal and 20th-century political history. The building has been damaged and interior access may be restricted, but the walk up is worthwhile for the façade and panorama. }} * {{see | image= | name=Aleksandër Moisiu House-Museum | alt=Shtepia Muze Aleksandër Moisiu, Alexander Moissi Museum House | url=https://akt.gov.al/en/atraksionet/shtepia-muze-aleksander-moisiu/ | email= | address=Rruga Kolonel Tomson, Durrës | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4460 | directions=In the historic centre, near the amphitheatre and Byzantine walls | phone=+355 52 223 150 | hours=Usually M-F 08:00-15:00; check before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Rare surviving 19th-century urban house in Durrës, associated with actor Aleksandër Moisiu. It has functioned as a house-museum and ethnographic museum, with displays on local daily life, folk clothing, household objects and Moisiu's life and career. }} * {{see | name=Old Doors Trail | alt=Path of Doors, Shtegu i Dyerve të Vjetra | url=https://www.muzehlab.org.al/old-doors-trail-in-durres/ | email=muzehlab@gmail.com | address=Old city centre, Durrës | lat=41.3123 | long=19.4462 | directions=Self-guided walking route through old Durrës | phone=+355 67 613 3262 | tollfree= | hours=Self-guided; contact MuZEH Lab for guided visits | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Heritage walking route through old Durrës focused on historic doors, family houses, courtyards and urban memory. Stops include old family houses and historic residences such as Villa Tedeschini, as well as streets around the older parts of the city. }} ===Civic buildings and other landmarks=== * {{see | name=Municipality | alt=Bashkia | url=http://www.Durrës.gov.al | email= | address=Sheshi Liria, 15 | lat=41.3127 | long=19.4463 | directions=On the main central square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Exterior view only unless visiting municipal offices | price=Free | image=Rathaus von Durres.jpg | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Municipal building on Sheshi Liria, one of the main civic spaces of central Durrës. It is useful as a landmark when navigating between the mosque, amphitheatre, Venetian Tower and old city streets. }} * {{see | image= | name=Kavaja Rock | alt=Shkembi i Kavajes | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.2779 | long=19.5192 | directions=SE 5 km, near Golem | phone= | hours=Open public landmark | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic landmark in Golem where caravans once passed along the ancient Via Egnatia. It is traditionally linked with a battle between Pompey and Julius Caesar and is also a useful coastal landmark south of Durrës. }} ===Old villages and rural heritage=== * {{see | name=Arapaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area; archaeological access may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village southeast of Durrës known for the nearby Basilica of Saint Michael and early Christian mosaic remains. It is useful for visitors interested in the rural edge of ancient Durrës and archaeological sites outside the city centre. }} * {{see | name=Shetaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shetaj, Durrës County | lat=41.567 | long=19.496 | directions=North of Durrës, on the way toward Cape of Rodon | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village in the northern coastal hinterland of Durrës County, useful as a base or stop when visiting Cape of Rodon, Rodoni Castle and nearby rural landscapes. It is better for visitors with a car. }} ===Natural and coastal landmarks=== * {{see | name=Lalzit Bay Area | alt=Gjiri i Lalëzit, Lalëz Bay | url=https://m.facebook.com/GjiriILazit/ | email= | address= | lat=41.4525 | long=19.4876 | directions=N 27 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open coastal area | price=Free; beach facilities may charge in season | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Long sandy bay north of Durrës, known for quieter beach areas, pine-backed coastline and access to Ishem Castle and Rrushkull Nature Reserve. It is best reached by car and is popular for beach stays outside central Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Rrushkull Nature Reserve | alt=Rezervati Rrushkull | url= | email= | address=Rrushkull, Durrës County | lat=41.435 | long=19.515 | directions=North of Durrës, near Lalzit Bay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open natural area; access conditions may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Coastal wetland and nature reserve near Lalzit Bay. It is mainly useful for visitors interested in quiet landscapes, birdlife, lagoons, dunes and natural areas outside the city. }} ===Further afield=== [[File:View of Lezhë.jpg|thumb|Lezhe]] * {{see | name=Rodoni Castle | alt=Kalaja e Rodonit | url= | email= | address=Cape of Rodon | lat=41.585982 | long=19.447504 | directions=Cape of Rodon, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check road and access conditions | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Ruined coastal castle at Cape of Rodon, traditionally associated with Skanderbeg. The site combines history, sea views, coastal walking and nearby religious heritage, and is best reached by car from Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Scanderbeg Castle | alt=Sebastia's Castle, Kalaja e Skënderbeut | url= | email= | address=Rruga e Sebastes, Laç village | lat=41.628339 | long=19.726932 | directions=N 33 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic castle site near Laç village. It is outside Durrës city and works best as a further-afield excursion for travellers exploring northern coastal and inland heritage sites. }} * {{see | name=Shen Ndout Church | alt=Kisha e Shna Ndout, Church of Saint Anthony | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kisha e Shna Ndout, Laç | lat=41.62898 | long=19.733149 | directions=Near Laç, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Active religious site; check pilgrimage and service times | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Important Catholic pilgrimage church near Laç. It is outside the city but can be combined with other northern excursions from Durrës, especially for visitors interested in religious sites and Albanian pilgrimage traditions. }} == Learn == * The '''Museum of Martyrs and Hall of War Relics''' on Rruga Aleksander Goga has a sizable public library on the second floor, with books in many European languages. The focus is definitely more on childrens books than not, but it's still a good resource for anyone who needs to do some research or just stay entertained. As of 2025, the hours were 08:00-16:00. ==Do== * {{do | name=Culture Palace | alt= | url= | email=| address=Bulevardi Dyrrah | lat=41.3144 | long=19.4465| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Events }} * {{do | name=Evening walk | address= | lat= | long= | directions= promenade | content=Go for an evening walk along the sea front promenade or along the beach. }} * {{do | name=Villa Hill | alt=Kodra e Viles | url= | email=| address=Rruga Currila | lat=41.318185 | long=19.433438| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Panoramic view of Durrës seaside at Currilat from top of a newly reclaimed hill. }} * {{do | name=Seaside Large Steps | alt=Shkallet tek Brryli | url= | email=| address=Intersection between Rruga Currila and Rruga Taulantia| lat=41.310852 | long=19.435305| directions=Brryli area| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Sit and admire the sea from up close on these large steps descending into the water}} [[File:Stadiumi Niko Dovana.jpg|thumb|right|Stadium Niko Dovana]] * '''Football:''' [https://www.kfteuta.com/ KF Teuta]{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} play football in Kategoria Superiore, the country's top tier. Their home ground is Niko Dovana Stadium, capacity 12,000, one km north of the ferry port. ===Beaches=== [[File:Durres in summer.JPG|thumb|City beach]] * {{do | name=Lalzit Bay Beach | alt=Gjiri i Lalzit | url= | email= | address=near Hamallaj village | lat=41.3968 | long=19.4214 | directions=25 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular weekend retreat and exclusive wealthy beach area. A small resort can be found here. }} * {{do | name=Portez Beach | alt=Plazhi Portez | url= | email= | address=Bishti Palles | lat=41.4001 | long=19.404 | directions=13 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Durres in summer.JPG | content=Nice beach, bar, and wooden bungalows north of Currilat }} * {{do | name=Golem beach | alt=Plazhi Golemit/Mali i Robit | url= | email= | address=Golem, Mali Robit, Kavaja Rock (Shkembi i Kavajes) | lat=41.2509 | long=19.5194 | directions=follow SH4 and enter secondary road at Plepat roundabout (SH56, SH85) or continue along SH4 and exit at Golem/Mali Robit exit | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-05 | content=This is the main seaside resort south of Durrës with long sandy beaches popular with both Albanians and foreigners. Tirana inhabitants have their beach houses and villas in the area for weekend and summer retreats. }} ===Diving=== * {{do | name=Sea Resort of Golem|alt= |url=https://diammaresort.al/en/ |email=| address=Diamma Resort, Rruga Kompleksit|lat=41.266001| long=19.519762| directions=S 7 km| phone=+355 69 666 1555 |hours= | price=| content=Take a dip in the Adriatic Sea water in the biggest sea side resort of Golem. }} === Events === * {{listing | name=Durrës International Biennale of Contemporary Art | alt=DIBoCA | url=https://durresbiennale.org/en/home | email=durresbiennale@gmail.com | address=Lagja 12, Rruga Abaz Çelkupa, Durrës | lat=41.318463 | long=19.452563 | directions=Near the city centre | phone=+355 69 472 7490 | tollfree= | hours=Biennial; check the official website for current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Biennial contemporary art exhibition supported by the Municipality of Durrës. It brings Albanian and international artists to the city through exhibitions, workshops, talks, and contemporary visual art projects. }} * {{listing | name=International Music Festival of Chamber Music | alt=Chamber Fest Durrës | url=https://www.chamberfestdurres.com/ | email= | address=Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral, Durrës | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=In the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the current programme | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Annual chamber music festival held in Durrës since 2006. It brings Albanian and international instrumentalists together for classical concerts, often in historic venues such as Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Durrës | alt=International Music Festival Festival Days in Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/ | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Performances are usually held in public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in early July; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music, folklore, and dance festival with parades, stage performances, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups from different countries. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Fest | alt=International Festival Durrës Fest | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/festivals/1108-5410-international-festival-durres-fest-summer | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central public spaces and performance venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folk, music, and dance festival focused on cultural exchange. Groups from different countries perform traditional and modern dances, choral music, orchestral music, and majorette programmes. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Albania | alt=International Folklore Festival Durrës | url=https://mioff.org/booking/xxix-festival-days-in-albania/ | email=office@mioff.org | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central performance areas and nearby hotels | phone=+389 78 700 619 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late June; check current dates before travelling | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folklore festival for folk groups, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups. The programme usually includes parades, performances, and optional sightseeing around Durrës. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Sunset | alt=International Music and Folk-Dance Festival Durrës Sunset | url=https://festival-association.eu/fest/688 | email=info@festival-association.eu | address=Durrës beach area | lat=41.289722 | long=19.513333 | directions=Usually based around beach hotels and public performance spaces | phone=+389 71 376 151 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music and folk-dance festival for children's, youth, and adult ensembles. The programme usually includes a city parade, public performances, a gala evening, and sightseeing. }} * {{listing | name=Dances in Durrës | alt=International Festival Dancing in Durrës | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/news/2025-11-10-international-festival-dances-in-durres-brings-cultures-together-from-around-the-world-in | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International dance and folklore festival with parades, evening performances, cultural walks, and music groups from different countries. It is aimed at dance ensembles, choirs, folklore groups, and modern dance groups. }} * {{listing | name=Summer Stars of Durrës | alt=International Competition and Festival of Arts Summer Stars of Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/en/festivals/1153-4768-international-competition-and-festival-of-arts-summer-stars-of-durres | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Check the organiser's current venue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in August 2024 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International arts competition and festival for soloists, ensembles, and young performers. It includes dance, choral, orchestral, modern, pop, jazz, hip-hop, and majorette categories. Confirm current editions before planning a visit. }} * {{listing | name=Roots of Durrës | alt=Roots of Durrës: Folk Traditions Festival | url=https://www.wofafestivals.com/news/roots-of-durres-folk-traditions-festival-2025/ | email=info@wofafestivals.com | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone=+389 75 491 218 | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in June 2025 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Folk traditions festival that has brought international folklore ensembles to perform in Durrës, including at the ancient amphitheatre. Confirm whether a current edition is scheduled before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Festa e Ullirit | alt=Olive Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually held around central cultural venues | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late October; check local announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Local festival celebrating the olive harvest and Durrës' connection with olive cultivation. It usually includes music, performances, local traditions, and honours for notable citizens. }} * {{listing | name=Art Explora Festival | alt= | url=https://www.artexplora.org/en/festival/city/durres | email= | address=Port of Durrës, Durrës | lat=41.308330 | long=19.454170 | directions=At the port quay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Occasional travelling festival; held in Durrës in April 2025 | price=Free admission or reservation-based depending on activity | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Travelling Mediterranean cultural festival with a museum boat, exhibitions, immersive experiences, talks, performances, workshops, concerts, and film screenings. It visited Durrës in 2025, but future stops should be confirmed from the official programme. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës International Film Summerfest | alt=Durrës International Film Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Historical event; check local cultural announcements for any revival | price= | wikidata=Q18351819 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International film festival founded in 2008 and historically held in Durrës, including at the amphitheatre and other cultural venues. Recent regular editions could not be confirmed, so do not rely on old official websites. }} * {{listing | name=Vox Baroque | alt=International Baroque Music Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Venues may vary; past performances have used heritage sites | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; check current announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Early music festival focused on Baroque repertoire and historical instruments. It has included Durrës among its Albanian heritage destinations, but current local dates should be verified before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Balkans Joint Conference and Exhibition | alt= | url=https://balkansjointconference.org/ | email= | address=Grand Blue Fafa Resort, Durrës | lat=41.269722 | long=19.519444 | directions=South of central Durrës, near the beach resort area | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually announced by edition; check the official conference website | price=Registration required | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Regional professional conference and technical exhibition for the water supply and wastewater sector. It brings together utilities, experts, companies, and public institutions from the Balkans. }} ==Buy== * Kokomani Wine— Albanian wine produced by Kokomani Winery, known for red and white wines made from local and international grape varieties. Bottles of wine and homemade raki are commonly sold in wine shops, supermarkets and souvenir stores in Durrës, and are popular gifts for visitors. * Souvenirs— Tourist souvenirs sold throughout Durrës include magnets, postcards, Albanian flag items, handmade jewellery, miniature amphora decorations and locally crafted gifts inspired by the city’s Roman and coastal heritage. * Sea Souvenirs— Shops near the beach sell seashell decorations, handmade marine crafts, beach-themed ornaments and Adriatic-inspired gifts commonly bought by summer tourists. * Household goods — Local markets and small stores offer practical household products, kitchenware, textiles and handmade wooden items used in traditional Albanian homes. * Traditional Albanian products— Traditional Albanian products available in Durrës include olive oil, mountain tea, local honey, dried herbs, filigree crafts, handmade carpets and bottles of raki produced in different regions of Albania. Many are sold in souvenir shops and artisan markets around the city. ==Eat== ===Budget=== ====In the city centre==== * {{eat | name=SAF - Gatime tradicionale | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31929 | long=19.45303 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-15:00 | price=200-500 lek | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Very traditional lunch menu. Every day they will have cooked something new and fresh. Prices are more than decent and food is delicious. }} * {{eat | name=Sema | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/SEMARestaurantDurrës/ | email= | address= | lat=41.313309 | long=19.446844 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa. Make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at round about take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia; bear right onto street H.Troplini. Turn right to stay on street H.Troplini; keep straight onto road; arrive on the right; there is Sema restaurant. | phone=+355 672033224 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:59 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rehat Kebab | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3144571 | long= 19.4471379 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Around the Ventus Harbour pier==== * {{eat | name=Mema House | alt= | url= | email=memahouse@hotmail.com | address=Taulantia Street | lat=41.310814 | long=19.441229 | directions=head east on Adria Street toward J.Ballhysa Street; make a U-turn to stay on Adria Street; at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Egnatia Promenade; at the next roundabout, take the 1st exit and bear right onto Taulantia Promenade | phone=+355 697541068 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Piceri Belvedere | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia | lat=41.3108788 | long=19.4374212 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Near the city centre==== * {{eat | name=Piceri 2 Engjejt | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Hysen Myshketa | lat=41.3221725 | long=19.4474410 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Pizza}} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Bar Restorant Kajser | alt= | url= | email=| address= | lat= | long= | directions=near King Zog's Villa| phone=| hours= | price= Delicious ice cream combinations including baked ice cream (400 lek), spaghetti, fish and baked lamb| content=it offers a panoramic view of Durrës from above. }} * {{eat | name=Splendid Restorant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Egnatia | lat=41.309062 | long=19.445899 | directions=from street Adria, toward street Adria; at roundabout 1st exit onto promenade Egnatia; arrive at promenade Egnatia on the left, you can find Splendid restaurant | phone=+355 692824222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Especially known locally for fish. Everything is fresh, tasty and served in the most professional way. Prices are slightly more than average for Albania, but for the whole experience of eating you get there it's worth every Lec. }} * {{eat | name=Neps | alt= | url=https://www.instagram.com/neps.Durrës/ | email= | address= | lat= 41.3140238 | long=19.4338833 | directions=from Durrës railway station, take street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria; at the roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia. At roundabout, take the 1st exit; bear right onto promenade Taulantia; the road name changes to street of Currila and there you can find Neps restaurant | phone=+355 694609111 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Restaurant in industrial style near the sea. }} * {{eat | name=Pastiçeri Pelikani 1 | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Pavaresia | lat= | long= | directions=near Hotel Adriatic | phone=+355 683095270 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=You can eat different sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Rooftop XV | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/fly.restaurant.Durrës/ | email=fly.Durrës@gmail.com | address=Street Erazmi | lat=41.310318 | long=19.448046 | directions= | phone=+355 684058103 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This restaurant has a breathtaking view from the 15th/top floor. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Tirona | alt= | url= | email= | address=SH4, Rruga Pavaresia, Durrës 2001 | lat=41.315426 | long=19.470471 | directions= | phone=+355 682010358 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-20 | content=A local's favourite, Restaurant Tirona in Durrës, it has a great selection of fresh sea-food at very affordable prices. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Restorant Piazza |alt=Restorant Piazza|url=http://www.restorantpiazza.com| email= |address=Rruga Taulantia 1| lat=41.30889 |long=19.4464 |directions=near the port|phone=+355 52 237601 |hours=08:00-23:00| price=| lastedit=2022-05-01 |content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Venetian Tower (Rotonda) bar|alt= |url= |email=| address=| lat= |long= | directions=on top of the Venetian Tower| phone=|hours= |price=|content=It offers a nice view of Durrës and its coastline. }} * {{drink | name=788 cocktail bar Durrës | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/788.CocktailBar | email=kokaemilian@hotmail.com | address= | lat=41.311132 | long=19.446449 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay street Adria at aroundabout, take 2nd onto promenade Egnatia; bear right, and then be right onto street H.Troplini; turn left onto street Dok Margariti; turn right onto street De Rada and then immediately turn right onto street Epidamni; turn left onto street Mosque | phone=+355 692121788 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=Nice music, great cocktails and that seaside summer breeze. During winter instead, live music, different events and local activities. ''(Tower is under construction as of 2022-05-08.)'' }} * {{drink | name=Bonsai Caffe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Bonsai-Caff%C3%A9/100010089723822 | email=ninikoka7@gmail.com | address= | lat= 41.3186186 | long=19.4462547 | directions=from Durrës railway station, go right street Adria, continuing with Martyrs street; welded with Kerol Bar | phone=+355 674999111 | tollfree= |fax=| hours=07:00-23:00 | price= |wikidata=| lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=A nice selection of drinks and a very welcoming environment. }} * {{drink | name=Portiku Wine Bar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pg/portikuwinebar/about/?entry_point=page_nav_about_item&tab=page_info | email= | address= | lat=41.309926 | long=19.447359 | directions=from railway station, depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia there at roundabout take 1st exit. Turn right at street Epidamni | phone=+355 686080666 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 09:00-23:30, Th 09:00-23:00, F 09:00-23:45, Sa Su 09:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Arragosta Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.aragosta.al/sq/ | email=reservation@arragosta.al | address=Neighborhood 1, street Taulantia, Currila | lat=41.318272 | long=19.45344 | directions= | phone=+355 52 226 477 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content=4-star beachfront hotel in the Currila area offering modern rooms, a private beach area and an on-site seafood restaurant. Popular for sea views and its location near the promenade and historic center. Traditional Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine available. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Adriatik | alt= | url=http://www.adriatikhotel.com/ | email=info@adriatikhotel.com | address=Lagjia 13, Rruga Pavaresia, Plazh Durrës | lat=41.3053 | long=19.4917 | directions=near the beach | phone=+355 52 260850 | tollfree= | fax=+355 52 260855 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from €100 (April 2026) |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Historic five-star seaside hotel located in the Plazh area of Durrës. Features a private beach, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, spa facilities, conference areas and several restaurants and bars. Popular with business travelers and summer tourists. }} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Arvi|alt=|url=http://hotelarvi.com|email=|address=Rruga Taulantia 16| lat=41.3105| long=19.4433|directions=Center|phone=+355 52 230403|price=Single from €60 (2014.jun)|checkin=12:00-22:00|checkout=07:00-11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Central waterfront hotel near the city promenade and archaeological sites. Offers sea-view rooms, restaurant facilities and easy access to cafés and nightlife in the center of Durrës. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Lido Durrës | alt= | url=https://katestravelexperience.eu/lido-albania | email= | address=Lagja.2; Rruga Aleksander Goga | lat=41.31511 | long=19.44525 | directions= | phone=+355 52 227941 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from around €50 |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Mid-range city hotel located near the center and port area. Offers comfortable rooms, breakfast service and convenient access to shops, restaurants and public transport. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Nais|url=https://hotelnais.com/ |email= |address=Lagia 1, Rruga Naim Frasheri nr.46|lat=41.3107 |long=19.4466| directions=from the port: 100 meters toward the town center; left on Naim Frasheri street, behind the tower |phone=| hours= | price=Double rooms from around €40| checkin= | checkout=11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Three-star hotel located close to the port and town center, within walking distance of the main promenade. Known for quiet rooms and included breakfast despite its central location.}} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Pepeto|url=http://hotelpepeto.webs.com/|email=|address=Mbreti MONUM Nr.3, Rruga Ramazan Jella|lat=41.3136|long=19.4473|directions=|phone=+355 52 224190|price= |checkin=|checkout=|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Small boutique-style hotel in the historic center near the Venetian Tower and archaeological attractions. Offers modern rooms and easy access to restaurants and cafés around the old town. }} * {{sleep | name=Premium Hotel Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Golem Long Beach 2504 | lat=41.259048 | long=19.447398 | directions= | phone=+355 676041008 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-05 | content=Modern beachfront hotel in the Golem area south of Durrës. Features restaurants, bars and evening entertainment including live DJs during the summer season. Popular with beach holiday visitors. }} * {{sleep | name=Crowne Plazza Durres | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/gb/en/durres/tiaab/hoteldetail?cm_mmc=YextLocal-_-CP-_-AL-_-TIAAB | email= | address= | lat=41.3087 | long=19.4458 | directions=Central, promenade | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-01 | content=5 Star experience on the waterfront, promenade. Newly opened in 2026. Luxury waterfront hotel on the central promenade offering modern rooms, sea views, upscale dining and five-star facilities. Located close to beaches, nightlife and the city center. }} == Connect == 5G available now (2026). As of Sep 2021, Vodafone has the best coverage, with 4G in Durrës, the other main towns, and highways between. One and ALB have 4G in Durrës but less coverage elsewhere. 5G has not been rolled out in Albania. == Go next == * [[Tirana]] the capital is ringed by trees and mountains. Mount Dajt has great views of the city. * [[Kruje]] in the hills above Tirana has museums and an old castle. * [[Lezhe]] has Skanderbeg's Tomb, panoramic Lezhe Castle and several renovated churches * [[Fier]] is a lively seaside city, near the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia. * Fushë-Krujë its near with Durrës {{geo|41.323|19.441}} {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Coastal Albania}} {{related|Ferries_in_the_Mediterranean}} ku9m4lbsp3g1akmjx4e0erdjm3d4jvm 5288878 5288851 2026-06-06T15:04:15Z Ikan Kekek 36420 Whether it's "kids'" or "children's", an apostrophe is needed. 5288878 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Durrës banner.jpg|caption=Roman circus panorama}} '''Durrës''' is [[Albania|Albania's]] chief port. Located on the shores of the Adriatic, Durrës is a lively town, organized around beach culture. ==Understand== In parts Durrës is attractive and well maintained. In others it is somewhat ramshackle, with both active and what appears to be abandoned development co-existing next to each other. To some degree, this is a feature of Durres geology. The area is in a tectonically active zone, with extremely unstable geology. The next earthquake will cause the ground to undergo liquefaction again, and much of the new development will have to be pruned back once more, before regrowing. Still, the city is alive. There are abundant shops, retail stalls and street traders. They appear to trade from early morning until late and provide an attractive "always on" vibe to the city. It has ferries to [[Bari]] and Ancona in ([[Italy]]) and bus connections to other Albanian and international destinations, often via Tirana. Alternative spellings of the city's name are ''Durazzo'' (Italian), ''Drač'' (Драч, Serbo-Croatian) or ''Dyrrhachion'' (Δυρράχιον, Greek). ==Get in== ===By boat=== [[File:Durrës Albania.jpg|thumb|Durrës panoramic view]] * {{go | name=Ferry Terminal | alt=Terminali i Trageteve | url=https://www.Durrësport.al/ | email= | address= | lat=41.31587 | long=19.45447 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q100343249 | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content= }} From specific destinations: * [[Bari]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [https://www.gnv.it/en , GNV Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Ventouris [https://ventourisferries.com/en/ Ferries] * [[Ancona]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries], [http://www.azzurraline.com/ENG/homeen.asp Azzurra Line ferries]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} * [[Trieste]] (Italy) – [http://www.adriaferries.com Adria Ferries] ===By bus=== If arriving to Durres by bus, make sure that you get off ''before'' the bus turns onto the highway going south towards Golem. The highway is very difficult to turn around on, and if you end up significantly south of Durres proper, it will be very difficult to find a taxi that can take you back into Durres, and it'll cost a fortune. * {{go | name=Bus Terminal | alt=Stacioni I Autobuzave | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31783 | long=19.45375 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content=Buses and furgons from Tirana usually arrive at this bus terminal with the "Durrës" logo on the outside near the old railway station. There are also some international connections and a direct airport bus. }} * {{go | name=Plepat Bus Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.29226 | long=19.50961 | directions=At the southern end of the promenade/beach. Take a local bus from the City Bus Terminal to get here. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=This is the bus station where buses from Tirana and most southern destinations, like [[Berat]] (450 lek), will stop to drop off passengers. Most buses will not head into the centre of Durrës. This is the only place with regular connections heading south. }} From specific destinations: * [[Tirana]] – The buses depart from the Northern Bus Station in Tirana near the Casa Italia shopping center. The ride takes around 45 min and costs 180 lek (Dec 2024). The bus operates daily every 30 min from 06:30 to 19:30. * [[Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza]] – The buses all depart south of the airport terminal. It should go every 1–2 hr. Price (Dec 2024): 600 lek. * [[Skopje]] (North Macedonia) – Buses run through Durrës on their way to Tirana. A typical Skopje-Tirana ticket costs around €25 return. * [[Kumanovo]] (North Macedonia) – There is a daily direct bus line to Durrës. The cost of tickets is around €20. * [[Pristina]] (Kosovo) – During the summer season there are several buses a day. You should check the timetables at the Pristina bus station, but in 2013 the timetable was as follows; 04:00, 05:00, 06:00 and 06:30 and then at 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00 and 23:00. There are at least a couple of buses going back at 16:00 and 17:00. Return ticket costs about €20. The trip takes around 4–5½ hr, depending on whether it goes via Prizren. Buses ran by Artiti Tours depart and arrive from the {{marker|type=go|name=Rrota e Kuqe stop|lat=41.3104760|long=19.4850781}} by a roundabout near the middle of Rruga Pavaresia street running parallel, and very close, to the beach. Tickets can be booked online at [https://travel.gjirafa.com Gjirafa] or [https://www.autobus.al/en/ Autobus.al]. The bus stop can be reached on foot in about ½ hr from the city centre. Alternatively, take a taxi (about €8) or use a bus running along Rruga Pavaresia from the city centre. ===By car=== There is a road between here and [[Tirana]], the SH2, which takes just over half an hour for the journey. You could [[Tirana#By plane|fly into]] Tirana, then drive or get a taxi to Durrës, with the airport connecting to the SH2 by the SH60. Also from Vorë and Shijak from main roads and highways. ===By commuter train=== Construction is underway for 2027, from Triana to Durres, and the Airport. ==Get around== {{mapframe|41.313| 19.442|zoom=15|layer=W}} === On foot === The city centre where the archaeological sites are located can be toured on foot. Durrës is a relatively compact city, so many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center and along the waterfront. If you're open to a longer walk, it's easy to get all the way to South Durres from the city core, and even further south than that, until you reach a part of the beach that's owned by the Albanian military and impassable. === By bus === Durrës has a public bus system that connects various parts of the city. Public buses are orange. You can purchase tickets from kiosks or directly from the bus driver or a controller who goes around the bus to sell & check tickets. Bus schedules may vary, so it is a good idea to check in advance. ==== Getting to the beach area of the city ==== Once you arrive at the Durrës bus station, there is a small Bus traffic sign with many people. From there you can take a bus with the sign Durazzo (or Durrës) Plepa. The bus stops at several designated stops along the Rruga Paveresia boulevard, i.e. along the beach (40 lek as of 2024). === By taxi === Many taxis are available in Durrës, and they are a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling to destinations not easily accessible by bus. You can find them parked everywhere on the streets with a taxi symbol on the top of their car. Make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver or demand to go with meter before starting your journey or you will definitely be overcharged. ==See== Durrës has layers of Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, royal Albanian, communist-era and modern history. The main sights are concentrated around the old city centre, with several important coastal and religious sites further afield. ===Religious sites=== ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Shen Lucia Catholic Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Luçia, Saint Lucia Catholic Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Don Nikoll Kacorri | lat= | long= | directions=In the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1907, this is one of the main Catholic churches in Durrës. It has simple Western-style architecture combined with local Albanian elements and remains an important place for Catholic worship, community gatherings, Christmas, Easter and other religious celebrations. }} * {{see | name=Shen Gjergji Orthodox Church | alt=Kisha e Shën Gjergjit, Saint George Orthodox Church | url= | email= | address=Rruga Vath Turja | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 19th century and closely connected to the Orthodox Christian community of Durrës. The building contains Byzantine architectural features, including traditional domes and icons. Inside, visitors can see religious paintings and decorative iconography, making it useful both for worshippers and for travellers interested in the city’s religious history. }} * {{see | name=Saint Asti and Saint Paul Orthodox Church | alt=Katedralja Ortodokse e Shën Palit dhe Shën Asti | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4488 | directions=Near the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:30 - 20:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=The main Orthodox cathedral of Durrës. Built in 2001 after the revival of religious life in Albania following communism, it is considered one of the largest modern Orthodox churches in the country. It has a large central dome, Byzantine-style frescoes and is named after Saint Paul and Saint Asti, the first Christian martyr associated with Durrës. It is used for major religious ceremonies and official Orthodox Church events. }} ====Mosques==== * {{see | name=Fatih Mosque | alt=Xhamia Fatih | url= | email= | address=Rruga Xhamia, close to the historical centre and the Roman Amphitheatre | lat=41.311102 | long=19.445970 | directions=Near the Roman Amphitheatre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally; avoid prayer times if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Fatih Mosque, Durrës | image=Xhamia e Fatihut.jpg | wikidata=Q1398072 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in 1503 during the Ottoman period and named after Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, known as Fatih. It is one of the oldest mosques in Albania. The mosque has suffered damage from earthquakes and wars but has been restored several times, and its minaret and design represent classical Ottoman religious architecture. }} * {{see | name=Great Mosque of Durrës | alt=Xhamia e Madhe e Durrësit, New Mosque, Grand Mosque | url= | email= | address=Rruga Aleksander Goga, Durrës | lat=41.313297 | long=19.445461 | directions=City centre, near Sheshi Liria | phone= | tollfree= | hours=06:00-09:30; visitors should avoid the busy Friday midday prayer if not attending worship | price=Free | wikipedia=Great Mosque of Durrës | image=Great Mosque in Durrës.JPG | wikidata=Q18888007 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Known locally as the Great Mosque. Built in 1937, it is sometimes called the New Mosque because it was constructed later than the older Ottoman mosques. It is one of the main Islamic religious centres in the city, with a large prayer hall and modern Islamic architecture. During Islamic holidays such as Eid, it becomes an important gathering place for worshippers. }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Archaeological Museum | alt=Muzeu Arkeologjik | url=https://m.facebook.com/muzeuarkeologjikDurrës/ | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia 32 | lat=41.311389 | long=19.440278 | directions=Near the seafront promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Durrës Archaeological Museum | wikidata=Q5316767 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The main archaeological museum of Durrës, normally focused on finds from ancient Dyrrhachium and the surrounding region. It is temporarily closed until sometime in 2026, so check locally before planning a visit. }} * {{see | image= | name=Popular Culture Museum | alt=Muzeu i Kulturës Popullore | url= | email= | address=Kavaje village, Rruga Skuraj | lat=41.180 | long=19.5549 | directions=S 18 km | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small local museum connected with traditional culture and daily life in the Durrës region. It may be useful for visitors interested in rural customs, folk objects and local heritage, but opening times should be checked locally. }} * {{see | name=World War II Relics Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3189417553968 | long=19.444248967878107 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Small collection or hall connected with World War II memory in Durrës. Verify access and opening times locally, as information may be limited. }} * {{see | image= | name=Koloseo Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | hours=Check locally before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Gallery showcasing work by local painters and artists. Useful for visitors who want to see contemporary visual art in Durrës beyond the archaeological and historic sights. }} ===Ancient and medieval monuments=== [[File:Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg|thumb|Durrës, Roman Amphitheater]] * {{see | name=Durrës Amphitheatre | alt=Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kalase | lat=41.312222 | long=19.444867 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | wikipedia=Durrës Amphitheatre | image=Amfiteatr rzymski w Durrës 1.jpg | wikidata=Q779868 | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=The largest Roman amphitheatre in the Balkans and the best-known ancient monument in Durrës. It includes restored iconography, underground passages below the seating area and a central grassy arena. It is one of the most important places for understanding the Roman layer of ancient Dyrrhachium. }} * {{see | name=Durrës Ancient City Wall | alt=Kalaja e Durrësit, Byzantine and Venetian walls | url= | email= | address=Rruga Sotir Noka | lat=41.3126 | long=19.4441 | directions=Next to the Amphitheater | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Surviving sections of the ancient and medieval walls of Durrës, close to the amphitheatre and old city centre. Around the walls are other historic features, including the Medieval Hammam and the Tophane Well. }} * {{see | name=Venetian Tower | alt=Rotonda, Kalaja | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3097 | long=19.4469 | directions=Near the old city walls and central promenade | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Check current opening hours before visiting | price=Ticket required | image=Durrës Albania 1.jpg | lastedit=2026-04-29 | content=Circular defensive tower in the city centre, built in the 16th century and associated with the Venetian fortifications of Durrës. Visitors can climb steep stairs to the top and see a multimedia presentation projected inside the dome. }} * {{see | image= | name=Shen Mehilli Hill | alt=Kodra e Shen Mehillit, Saint Michael Hill, Basilica of Saint Michael | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës, near Arapaj | phone= | hours=Open archaeological area; check access locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Hill and archaeological area associated with the early Christian Basilica of Saint Michael, a 5th- or 6th-century site with mosaic remains. The area is also linked with the 1081 battle between Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos and Norman leader Robert Guiscard. }} * {{see | name=Byzantine Forum | alt=Macellum | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31503961305186 | long=19.44581838485815 | directions=Near the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open public archaeological area | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Built in the 5th century AD, the Byzantine Forum, also known as the Macellum, preserves remains of the ancient public space of the city. Public baths are around and beneath the Alexander Moissi Palace of Culture area. }} ===Historic residences and villas=== [[File:Villa e Zogut.jpg|thumb|King Zog's Villa]] * {{see | name=King Zog's Villa | alt=Vila e Zogut, Royal Villa of Durrës | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kont Urani | lat=41.314724 | long=19.438698 | directions=On top of a hill overlooking the city | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually closed or irregular access; check locally before visiting | price= | wikipedia=Royal Villa of Durrës | image=Palace of king Zog durres.jpg | wikidata=Q13530086 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Former royal summer residence of King Zog, completed in 1937. It stands on a hill above Durrës and is known for its views over the bay, Italian Rationalist architecture and role in Albania's royal and 20th-century political history. The building has been damaged and interior access may be restricted, but the walk up is worthwhile for the façade and panorama. }} * {{see | image= | name=Aleksandër Moisiu House-Museum | alt=Shtepia Muze Aleksandër Moisiu, Alexander Moissi Museum House | url=https://akt.gov.al/en/atraksionet/shtepia-muze-aleksander-moisiu/ | email= | address=Rruga Kolonel Tomson, Durrës | lat=41.3107 | long=19.4460 | directions=In the historic centre, near the amphitheatre and Byzantine walls | phone=+355 52 223 150 | hours=Usually M-F 08:00-15:00; check before visiting | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Rare surviving 19th-century urban house in Durrës, associated with actor Aleksandër Moisiu. It has functioned as a house-museum and ethnographic museum, with displays on local daily life, folk clothing, household objects and Moisiu's life and career. }} * {{see | name=Old Doors Trail | alt=Path of Doors, Shtegu i Dyerve të Vjetra | url=https://www.muzehlab.org.al/old-doors-trail-in-durres/ | email=muzehlab@gmail.com | address=Old city centre, Durrës | lat=41.3123 | long=19.4462 | directions=Self-guided walking route through old Durrës | phone=+355 67 613 3262 | tollfree= | hours=Self-guided; contact MuZEH Lab for guided visits | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Heritage walking route through old Durrës focused on historic doors, family houses, courtyards and urban memory. Stops include old family houses and historic residences such as Villa Tedeschini, as well as streets around the older parts of the city. }} ===Civic buildings and other landmarks=== * {{see | name=Municipality | alt=Bashkia | url=http://www.Durrës.gov.al | email= | address=Sheshi Liria, 15 | lat=41.3127 | long=19.4463 | directions=On the main central square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Exterior view only unless visiting municipal offices | price=Free | image=Rathaus von Durres.jpg | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Municipal building on Sheshi Liria, one of the main civic spaces of central Durrës. It is useful as a landmark when navigating between the mosque, amphitheatre, Venetian Tower and old city streets. }} * {{see | image= | name=Kavaja Rock | alt=Shkembi i Kavajes | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.2779 | long=19.5192 | directions=SE 5 km, near Golem | phone= | hours=Open public landmark | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic landmark in Golem where caravans once passed along the ancient Via Egnatia. It is traditionally linked with a battle between Pompey and Julius Caesar and is also a useful coastal landmark south of Durrës. }} ===Old villages and rural heritage=== * {{see | name=Arapaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Arapaj, Durrës | lat=41.30137 | long=19.50568 | directions=About 5 km southeast of central Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area; archaeological access may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village southeast of Durrës known for the nearby Basilica of Saint Michael and early Christian mosaic remains. It is useful for visitors interested in the rural edge of ancient Durrës and archaeological sites outside the city centre. }} * {{see | name=Shetaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shetaj, Durrës County | lat=41.567 | long=19.496 | directions=North of Durrës, on the way toward Cape of Rodon | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open village area | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Village in the northern coastal hinterland of Durrës County, useful as a base or stop when visiting Cape of Rodon, Rodoni Castle and nearby rural landscapes. It is better for visitors with a car. }} ===Natural and coastal landmarks=== * {{see | name=Lalzit Bay Area | alt=Gjiri i Lalëzit, Lalëz Bay | url=https://m.facebook.com/GjiriILazit/ | email= | address= | lat=41.4525 | long=19.4876 | directions=N 27 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open coastal area | price=Free; beach facilities may charge in season | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Long sandy bay north of Durrës, known for quieter beach areas, pine-backed coastline and access to Ishem Castle and Rrushkull Nature Reserve. It is best reached by car and is popular for beach stays outside central Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Rrushkull Nature Reserve | alt=Rezervati Rrushkull | url= | email= | address=Rrushkull, Durrës County | lat=41.435 | long=19.515 | directions=North of Durrës, near Lalzit Bay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open natural area; access conditions may vary | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Coastal wetland and nature reserve near Lalzit Bay. It is mainly useful for visitors interested in quiet landscapes, birdlife, lagoons, dunes and natural areas outside the city. }} ===Further afield=== [[File:View of Lezhë.jpg|thumb|Lezhe]] * {{see | name=Rodoni Castle | alt=Kalaja e Rodonit | url= | email= | address=Cape of Rodon | lat=41.585982 | long=19.447504 | directions=Cape of Rodon, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check road and access conditions | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Ruined coastal castle at Cape of Rodon, traditionally associated with Skanderbeg. The site combines history, sea views, coastal walking and nearby religious heritage, and is best reached by car from Durrës. }} * {{see | name=Scanderbeg Castle | alt=Sebastia's Castle, Kalaja e Skënderbeut | url= | email= | address=Rruga e Sebastes, Laç village | lat=41.628339 | long=19.726932 | directions=N 33 km | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open historic area; check locally | price= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Historic castle site near Laç village. It is outside Durrës city and works best as a further-afield excursion for travellers exploring northern coastal and inland heritage sites. }} * {{see | name=Shen Ndout Church | alt=Kisha e Shna Ndout, Church of Saint Anthony | url= | email= | address=Rruga Kisha e Shna Ndout, Laç | lat=41.62898 | long=19.733149 | directions=Near Laç, north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Active religious site; check pilgrimage and service times | price=Free | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Important Catholic pilgrimage church near Laç. It is outside the city but can be combined with other northern excursions from Durrës, especially for visitors interested in religious sites and Albanian pilgrimage traditions. }} == Learn == * The '''Museum of Martyrs and Hall of War Relics''' on Rruga Aleksander Goga has a sizable public library on the second floor, with books in many European languages. The focus is definitely more on children's books than not, but it's still a good resource for anyone who needs to do some research or just stay entertained. As of 2025, the hours were 08:00-16:00. ==Do== * {{do | name=Culture Palace | alt= | url= | email=| address=Bulevardi Dyrrah | lat=41.3144 | long=19.4465| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Events }} * {{do | name=Evening walk | address= | lat= | long= | directions= promenade | content=Go for an evening walk along the sea front promenade or along the beach. }} * {{do | name=Villa Hill | alt=Kodra e Viles | url= | email=| address=Rruga Currila | lat=41.318185 | long=19.433438| directions=| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Panoramic view of Durrës seaside at Currilat from top of a newly reclaimed hill. }} * {{do | name=Seaside Large Steps | alt=Shkallet tek Brryli | url= | email=| address=Intersection between Rruga Currila and Rruga Taulantia| lat=41.310852 | long=19.435305| directions=Brryli area| phone= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Sit and admire the sea from up close on these large steps descending into the water}} [[File:Stadiumi Niko Dovana.jpg|thumb|right|Stadium Niko Dovana]] * '''Football:''' [https://www.kfteuta.com/ KF Teuta]{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} play football in Kategoria Superiore, the country's top tier. Their home ground is Niko Dovana Stadium, capacity 12,000, one km north of the ferry port. ===Beaches=== [[File:Durres in summer.JPG|thumb|City beach]] * {{do | name=Lalzit Bay Beach | alt=Gjiri i Lalzit | url= | email= | address=near Hamallaj village | lat=41.3968 | long=19.4214 | directions=25 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular weekend retreat and exclusive wealthy beach area. A small resort can be found here. }} * {{do | name=Portez Beach | alt=Plazhi Portez | url= | email= | address=Bishti Palles | lat=41.4001 | long=19.404 | directions=13 km north of Durrës | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Durres in summer.JPG | content=Nice beach, bar, and wooden bungalows north of Currilat }} * {{do | name=Golem beach | alt=Plazhi Golemit/Mali i Robit | url= | email= | address=Golem, Mali Robit, Kavaja Rock (Shkembi i Kavajes) | lat=41.2509 | long=19.5194 | directions=follow SH4 and enter secondary road at Plepat roundabout (SH56, SH85) or continue along SH4 and exit at Golem/Mali Robit exit | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-05 | content=This is the main seaside resort south of Durrës with long sandy beaches popular with both Albanians and foreigners. Tirana inhabitants have their beach houses and villas in the area for weekend and summer retreats. }} ===Diving=== * {{do | name=Sea Resort of Golem|alt= |url=https://diammaresort.al/en/ |email=| address=Diamma Resort, Rruga Kompleksit|lat=41.266001| long=19.519762| directions=S 7 km| phone=+355 69 666 1555 |hours= | price=| content=Take a dip in the Adriatic Sea water in the biggest sea side resort of Golem. }} === Events === * {{listing | name=Durrës International Biennale of Contemporary Art | alt=DIBoCA | url=https://durresbiennale.org/en/home | email=durresbiennale@gmail.com | address=Lagja 12, Rruga Abaz Çelkupa, Durrës | lat=41.318463 | long=19.452563 | directions=Near the city centre | phone=+355 69 472 7490 | tollfree= | hours=Biennial; check the official website for current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Biennial contemporary art exhibition supported by the Municipality of Durrës. It brings Albanian and international artists to the city through exhibitions, workshops, talks, and contemporary visual art projects. }} * {{listing | name=International Music Festival of Chamber Music | alt=Chamber Fest Durrës | url=https://www.chamberfestdurres.com/ | email= | address=Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral, Durrës | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=In the historic centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the current programme | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Annual chamber music festival held in Durrës since 2006. It brings Albanian and international instrumentalists together for classical concerts, often in historic venues such as Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Durrës | alt=International Music Festival Festival Days in Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/ | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Performances are usually held in public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in early July; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music, folklore, and dance festival with parades, stage performances, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups from different countries. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Fest | alt=International Festival Durrës Fest | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/festivals/1108-5410-international-festival-durres-fest-summer | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central public spaces and performance venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in July; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folk, music, and dance festival focused on cultural exchange. Groups from different countries perform traditional and modern dances, choral music, orchestral music, and majorette programmes. }} * {{listing | name=Festival Days in Albania | alt=International Folklore Festival Durrës | url=https://mioff.org/booking/xxix-festival-days-in-albania/ | email=office@mioff.org | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around central performance areas and nearby hotels | phone=+389 78 700 619 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late June; check current dates before travelling | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International folklore festival for folk groups, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups. The programme usually includes parades, performances, and optional sightseeing around Durrës. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës Sunset | alt=International Music and Folk-Dance Festival Durrës Sunset | url=https://festival-association.eu/fest/688 | email=info@festival-association.eu | address=Durrës beach area | lat=41.289722 | long=19.513333 | directions=Usually based around beach hotels and public performance spaces | phone=+389 71 376 151 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the organiser's current dates | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International music and folk-dance festival for children's, youth, and adult ensembles. The programme usually includes a city parade, public performances, a gala evening, and sightseeing. }} * {{listing | name=Dances in Durrës | alt=International Festival Dancing in Durrës | url=https://www.eaff.eu/en/news/2025-11-10-international-festival-dances-in-durres-brings-cultures-together-from-around-the-world-in | email=office@eaff.eu | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually around public squares and cultural venues | phone=+359 62 621541 | tollfree= | hours=Usually in September; check the EAFF calendar | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International dance and folklore festival with parades, evening performances, cultural walks, and music groups from different countries. It is aimed at dance ensembles, choirs, folklore groups, and modern dance groups. }} * {{listing | name=Summer Stars of Durrës | alt=International Competition and Festival of Arts Summer Stars of Durrës | url=https://eaff.eu/en/festivals/1153-4768-international-competition-and-festival-of-arts-summer-stars-of-durres | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Check the organiser's current venue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in August 2024 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International arts competition and festival for soloists, ensembles, and young performers. It includes dance, choral, orchestral, modern, pop, jazz, hip-hop, and majorette categories. Confirm current editions before planning a visit. }} * {{listing | name=Roots of Durrës | alt=Roots of Durrës: Folk Traditions Festival | url=https://www.wofafestivals.com/news/roots-of-durres-folk-traditions-festival-2025/ | email=info@wofafestivals.com | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone=+389 75 491 218 | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in June 2025 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Folk traditions festival that has brought international folklore ensembles to perform in Durrës, including at the ancient amphitheatre. Confirm whether a current edition is scheduled before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Festa e Ullirit | alt=Olive Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Usually held around central cultural venues | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually in late October; check local announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Local festival celebrating the olive harvest and Durrës' connection with olive cultivation. It usually includes music, performances, local traditions, and honours for notable citizens. }} * {{listing | name=Art Explora Festival | alt= | url=https://www.artexplora.org/en/festival/city/durres | email= | address=Port of Durrës, Durrës | lat=41.308330 | long=19.454170 | directions=At the port quay | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Occasional travelling festival; held in Durrës in April 2025 | price=Free admission or reservation-based depending on activity | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Travelling Mediterranean cultural festival with a museum boat, exhibitions, immersive experiences, talks, performances, workshops, concerts, and film screenings. It visited Durrës in 2025, but future stops should be confirmed from the official programme. }} * {{listing | name=Durrës International Film Summerfest | alt=Durrës International Film Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës | lat=41.312191 | long=19.445263 | directions=In the old city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Historical event; check local cultural announcements for any revival | price= | wikidata=Q18351819 | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=International film festival founded in 2008 and historically held in Durrës, including at the amphitheatre and other cultural venues. Recent regular editions could not be confirmed, so do not rely on old official websites. }} * {{listing | name=Vox Baroque | alt=International Baroque Music Festival | url= | email= | address=Durrës city centre | lat=41.313333 | long=19.446111 | directions=Venues may vary; past performances have used heritage sites | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Irregular; check current announcements | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Early music festival focused on Baroque repertoire and historical instruments. It has included Durrës among its Albanian heritage destinations, but current local dates should be verified before travelling. }} * {{listing | name=Balkans Joint Conference and Exhibition | alt= | url=https://balkansjointconference.org/ | email= | address=Grand Blue Fafa Resort, Durrës | lat=41.269722 | long=19.519444 | directions=South of central Durrës, near the beach resort area | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Usually announced by edition; check the official conference website | price=Registration required | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-10 | content=Regional professional conference and technical exhibition for the water supply and wastewater sector. It brings together utilities, experts, companies, and public institutions from the Balkans. }} ==Buy== * Kokomani Wine— Albanian wine produced by Kokomani Winery, known for red and white wines made from local and international grape varieties. Bottles of wine and homemade raki are commonly sold in wine shops, supermarkets and souvenir stores in Durrës, and are popular gifts for visitors. * Souvenirs— Tourist souvenirs sold throughout Durrës include magnets, postcards, Albanian flag items, handmade jewellery, miniature amphora decorations and locally crafted gifts inspired by the city’s Roman and coastal heritage. * Sea Souvenirs— Shops near the beach sell seashell decorations, handmade marine crafts, beach-themed ornaments and Adriatic-inspired gifts commonly bought by summer tourists. * Household goods — Local markets and small stores offer practical household products, kitchenware, textiles and handmade wooden items used in traditional Albanian homes. * Traditional Albanian products— Traditional Albanian products available in Durrës include olive oil, mountain tea, local honey, dried herbs, filigree crafts, handmade carpets and bottles of raki produced in different regions of Albania. Many are sold in souvenir shops and artisan markets around the city. ==Eat== ===Budget=== ====In the city centre==== * {{eat | name=SAF - Gatime tradicionale | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.31929 | long=19.45303 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-15:00 | price=200-500 lek | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Very traditional lunch menu. Every day they will have cooked something new and fresh. Prices are more than decent and food is delicious. }} * {{eat | name=Sema | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/SEMARestaurantDurrës/ | email= | address= | lat=41.313309 | long=19.446844 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa. Make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at round about take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia; bear right onto street H.Troplini. Turn right to stay on street H.Troplini; keep straight onto road; arrive on the right; there is Sema restaurant. | phone=+355 672033224 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:59 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rehat Kebab | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.3144571 | long= 19.4471379 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Around the Ventus Harbour pier==== * {{eat | name=Mema House | alt= | url= | email=memahouse@hotmail.com | address=Taulantia Street | lat=41.310814 | long=19.441229 | directions=head east on Adria Street toward J.Ballhysa Street; make a U-turn to stay on Adria Street; at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Egnatia Promenade; at the next roundabout, take the 1st exit and bear right onto Taulantia Promenade | phone=+355 697541068 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Piceri Belvedere | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Taulantia | lat=41.3108788 | long=19.4374212 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Near the city centre==== * {{eat | name=Piceri 2 Engjejt | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rruga Hysen Myshketa | lat=41.3221725 | long=19.4474410 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Pizza}} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Bar Restorant Kajser | alt= | url= | email=| address= | lat= | long= | directions=near King Zog's Villa| phone=| hours= | price= Delicious ice cream combinations including baked ice cream (400 lek), spaghetti, fish and baked lamb| content=it offers a panoramic view of Durrës from above. }} * {{eat | name=Splendid Restorant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Egnatia | lat=41.309062 | long=19.445899 | directions=from street Adria, toward street Adria; at roundabout 1st exit onto promenade Egnatia; arrive at promenade Egnatia on the left, you can find Splendid restaurant | phone=+355 692824222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Especially known locally for fish. Everything is fresh, tasty and served in the most professional way. Prices are slightly more than average for Albania, but for the whole experience of eating you get there it's worth every Lec. }} * {{eat | name=Neps | alt= | url=https://www.instagram.com/neps.Durrës/ | email= | address= | lat= 41.3140238 | long=19.4338833 | directions=from Durrës railway station, take street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria; at the roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia. At roundabout, take the 1st exit; bear right onto promenade Taulantia; the road name changes to street of Currila and there you can find Neps restaurant | phone=+355 694609111 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-23:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Restaurant in industrial style near the sea. }} * {{eat | name=Pastiçeri Pelikani 1 | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street Pavaresia | lat= | long= | directions=near Hotel Adriatic | phone=+355 683095270 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=You can eat different sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Rooftop XV | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/fly.restaurant.Durrës/ | email=fly.Durrës@gmail.com | address=Street Erazmi | lat=41.310318 | long=19.448046 | directions= | phone=+355 684058103 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This restaurant has a breathtaking view from the 15th/top floor. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Tirona | alt= | url= | email= | address=SH4, Rruga Pavaresia, Durrës 2001 | lat=41.315426 | long=19.470471 | directions= | phone=+355 682010358 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-20 | content=A local's favourite, Restaurant Tirona in Durrës, it has a great selection of fresh sea-food at very affordable prices. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Restorant Piazza |alt=Restorant Piazza|url=http://www.restorantpiazza.com| email= |address=Rruga Taulantia 1| lat=41.30889 |long=19.4464 |directions=near the port|phone=+355 52 237601 |hours=08:00-23:00| price=| lastedit=2022-05-01 |content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Venetian Tower (Rotonda) bar|alt= |url= |email=| address=| lat= |long= | directions=on top of the Venetian Tower| phone=|hours= |price=|content=It offers a nice view of Durrës and its coastline. }} * {{drink | name=788 cocktail bar Durrës | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/788.CocktailBar | email=kokaemilian@hotmail.com | address= | lat=41.311132 | long=19.446449 | directions=depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay street Adria at aroundabout, take 2nd onto promenade Egnatia; bear right, and then be right onto street H.Troplini; turn left onto street Dok Margariti; turn right onto street De Rada and then immediately turn right onto street Epidamni; turn left onto street Mosque | phone=+355 692121788 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=Nice music, great cocktails and that seaside summer breeze. During winter instead, live music, different events and local activities. ''(Tower is under construction as of 2022-05-08.)'' }} * {{drink | name=Bonsai Caffe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Bonsai-Caff%C3%A9/100010089723822 | email=ninikoka7@gmail.com | address= | lat= 41.3186186 | long=19.4462547 | directions=from Durrës railway station, go right street Adria, continuing with Martyrs street; welded with Kerol Bar | phone=+355 674999111 | tollfree= |fax=| hours=07:00-23:00 | price= |wikidata=| lastedit=2019-07-27 | content=A nice selection of drinks and a very welcoming environment. }} * {{drink | name=Portiku Wine Bar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pg/portikuwinebar/about/?entry_point=page_nav_about_item&tab=page_info | email= | address= | lat=41.309926 | long=19.447359 | directions=from railway station, depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia there at roundabout take 1st exit. Turn right at street Epidamni | phone=+355 686080666 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 09:00-23:30, Th 09:00-23:00, F 09:00-23:45, Sa Su 09:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Arragosta Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.aragosta.al/sq/ | email=reservation@arragosta.al | address=Neighborhood 1, street Taulantia, Currila | lat=41.318272 | long=19.45344 | directions= | phone=+355 52 226 477 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-28 | content=4-star beachfront hotel in the Currila area offering modern rooms, a private beach area and an on-site seafood restaurant. Popular for sea views and its location near the promenade and historic center. Traditional Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine available. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Adriatik | alt= | url=http://www.adriatikhotel.com/ | email=info@adriatikhotel.com | address=Lagjia 13, Rruga Pavaresia, Plazh Durrës | lat=41.3053 | long=19.4917 | directions=near the beach | phone=+355 52 260850 | tollfree= | fax=+355 52 260855 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from €100 (April 2026) |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Historic five-star seaside hotel located in the Plazh area of Durrës. Features a private beach, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, spa facilities, conference areas and several restaurants and bars. Popular with business travelers and summer tourists. }} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Arvi|alt=|url=http://hotelarvi.com|email=|address=Rruga Taulantia 16| lat=41.3105| long=19.4433|directions=Center|phone=+355 52 230403|price=Single from €60 (2014.jun)|checkin=12:00-22:00|checkout=07:00-11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Central waterfront hotel near the city promenade and archaeological sites. Offers sea-view rooms, restaurant facilities and easy access to cafés and nightlife in the center of Durrës. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Lido Durrës | alt= | url=https://katestravelexperience.eu/lido-albania | email= | address=Lagja.2; Rruga Aleksander Goga | lat=41.31511 | long=19.44525 | directions= | phone=+355 52 227941 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from around €50 |lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Mid-range city hotel located near the center and port area. Offers comfortable rooms, breakfast service and convenient access to shops, restaurants and public transport. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Nais|url=https://hotelnais.com/ |email= |address=Lagia 1, Rruga Naim Frasheri nr.46|lat=41.3107 |long=19.4466| directions=from the port: 100 meters toward the town center; left on Naim Frasheri street, behind the tower |phone=| hours= | price=Double rooms from around €40| checkin= | checkout=11:00|lastedit=2026-05-09| content=Three-star hotel located close to the port and town center, within walking distance of the main promenade. Known for quiet rooms and included breakfast despite its central location.}} * {{sleep |name=Hotel Pepeto|url=http://hotelpepeto.webs.com/|email=|address=Mbreti MONUM Nr.3, Rruga Ramazan Jella|lat=41.3136|long=19.4473|directions=|phone=+355 52 224190|price= |checkin=|checkout=|lastedit=2026-05-09|content=Small boutique-style hotel in the historic center near the Venetian Tower and archaeological attractions. Offers modern rooms and easy access to restaurants and cafés around the old town. }} * {{sleep | name=Premium Hotel Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Golem Long Beach 2504 | lat=41.259048 | long=19.447398 | directions= | phone=+355 676041008 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-05 | content=Modern beachfront hotel in the Golem area south of Durrës. Features restaurants, bars and evening entertainment including live DJs during the summer season. Popular with beach holiday visitors. }} * {{sleep | name=Crowne Plazza Durres | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/gb/en/durres/tiaab/hoteldetail?cm_mmc=YextLocal-_-CP-_-AL-_-TIAAB | email= | address= | lat=41.3087 | long=19.4458 | directions=Central, promenade | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-01 | content=5 Star experience on the waterfront, promenade. Newly opened in 2026. Luxury waterfront hotel on the central promenade offering modern rooms, sea views, upscale dining and five-star facilities. Located close to beaches, nightlife and the city center. }} == Connect == 5G available now (2026). As of Sep 2021, Vodafone has the best coverage, with 4G in Durrës, the other main towns, and highways between. One and ALB have 4G in Durrës but less coverage elsewhere. 5G has not been rolled out in Albania. == Go next == * [[Tirana]] the capital is ringed by trees and mountains. Mount Dajt has great views of the city. * [[Kruje]] in the hills above Tirana has museums and an old castle. * [[Lezhe]] has Skanderbeg's Tomb, panoramic Lezhe Castle and several renovated churches * [[Fier]] is a lively seaside city, near the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia. * Fushë-Krujë its near with Durrës {{geo|41.323|19.441}} {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Coastal Albania}} {{related|Ferries_in_the_Mediterranean}} 1tznxdzqdqf73qdp2dtk7sgb4lnpl8x 0 11742 5288896 5288664 2026-06-06T16:23:55Z Anyone150 1516949 /* Go next */ 5288896 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lummus_Park_Florida_banner.jpg}} {{otheruses}}'''Florida''' is the southernmost state in the continental [[United States of America]]. Known as "The Sunshine State", over a century ago it became a popular winter destination for the well-to-do from colder climates; it has grown to become the second-most visited state in the nation. Tourists have long been drawn to Florida by its white-sand beaches and unique and diverse cities. Since the mid-twentieth century, world-class theme parks and attractions have become a top draw as well. In the 21st century, Florida has become the preferred retirement destination for rich Americans from all over the country. The state's roots in agriculture are still relevant, with oranges being a chief export. Untouched natural landscapes teeming with wildlife exist in vast areas, sometimes very close to cities, and there are miles of rivers and trails for the intrepid visitor. Some of Florida's best secrets are charming small towns and other places in secluded locations, away from the crowded tourist areas but certainly worth seeing. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Florida Static Map.png | regionmaptext=Regions of Florida | regionmapsize=410px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[First Coast]] | region1color=#c68d98ff | region1items= | region1description=The end of the St. Johns River is the location of [[Jacksonville]], one of the largest cities in the state, and some coastal towns including America's oldest city, [[St. Augustine]]. | region2name=[[Volusia County]] | region2color=#a9a567ff | region2items= | region2description=A beach county, also known as the "Fun Coast," frequented by snowbirds, [[Inland Florida]] residents, and fans of the Daytona 500. | region3name=[[Space Coast]] | region3color=#c39dc3ff | region3items= | region3description=The [[Kennedy Space Center]], [[Cape Canaveral]], and some coastal towns to the south are within this region, which is synonymous with Brevard County. | region4name=[[Treasure Coast]] | region4color=#ffd0d0ff | region4items= | region4description=Between Miami and the rest of the Atlantic coast, there are some medium-sized cities here, but it is still more off the beaten path than the counties to the south. | region5name=[[Greater Miami]] | region5color=#4da9c4ff | region5items=[[Palm Beach County]], [[Broward County]], [[Miami-Dade County]] | region5description=Miami and its surroundings (called the "Gold Coast") are known for their ethnic diversity, proximity to Latin America, and tourist appeal along the many miles of beautiful beaches. | region6name=[[Florida Keys]] | region6color=#d5dc76ff | region6items= | region6description=A chain of islands off the southern tip of the peninsula, and one of the state's main tourist destinations with its breathtaking tropical beauty. | region7name=[[Florida West Coast]] | region7color=#80bb89ff | region7items=[[Big Bend Coast]], [[Tampa Bay Area]], [[Southwest Florida]] | region7description=Particularly in the north, more rural than its eastern counterpart, the western coast is known for its Tampa-St. Petersburg metro area and many beautiful beaches in the southwest of the state, with the [[Everglades]] separating the region from Miami. | region8name=[[Florida Panhandle]] | region8color=#d56d76ff | region8items=[[Emerald Coast]], [[Forgotten Coast]], [[Middle Florida]], [[West Florida]] | region8description=The Florida panhandle is a "Deep South" region of antebellum plantations, red hills, and white sand beaches. Cities include the state capital of Tallahassee, Destin, Pensacola, and Panama City Beach. | region9name=[[Inland Florida]] | region9color=#d8a55eff | region9items=[[North Central Florida]], [[Greater Orlando]], [[Lake County (Florida)|Lake County]], [[Polk County (Florida)|Polk County]], [[Florida Heartland]] | region9description=A few cities dot this mostly rural region, including the college town of [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], the theme parks of [[Orlando]], and small towns throughout the rest. }} ==Cities== Below is a selection of some of Florida's most notable cities. Other cities can be found under their specific regions. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tallahassee]]|url=|lat=30.455|long=-84.253333|wikidata=Q37043}} – The state capital and thriving college town home to three schools, including Florida State<!-- capital top, alphabetize the rest --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Fort Lauderdale]]|url=|lat=26.133333|long=-80.15|wikidata=Q165972}} – The "Venice of America" with its expansive canal system, also known for beaches and boating *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Jacksonville]]|url=|lat=30.336944|long=-81.661389|wikidata=Q16568}} – Sprawling city encompassing large beaches, world-class museums, and award-winning golf *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Miami]]|url=|lat=25.775278|long=-80.208889|wikidata=Q8652}} – The center of Caribbean and Latin American culture, famed for its beachfront nightclubs *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Orlando]]|url=|lat=28.415833|long=-81.298889|wikidata=Q49233}} – The theme park capital of the world also features exciting dining, a lively arts scene, and ample recreation *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pensacola]]|url=|lat=30.433333|long=-87.2|wikidata=Q486306}} – White-sand beaches draw tourists to this town of ancient shipwrecks and military fighter jets *{{marker|type=city|name=[[St. Augustine]]|url=|lat=29.894722|long=-81.314444|wikidata=Q487988}} – The oldest city in the country is home to two more-than 400-year-old Spanish forts, restaurants, and shops *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tampa]]|url=|lat=27.968056|long=-82.476389|wikidata=Q49255}} – Large Gulf Coast metro area home to bustling nightlife as well as famed natural sites *{{marker|type=city|name=[[West Palm Beach]]|url=|lat=26.709722|long=-80.064167|wikidata=Q163749}} – Ritzy town home to the rich & famous, featuring high-end shopping and beautiful beaches ==Other destinations== [[File:Eudocimus albus (foraging).jpg|thumb|American white ibis at the Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area in [[Everglades National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Amelia Island]]|url=|lat=30.615556|long=-81.453889|wikidata=Q461578}} – Historic island at the north end of the state, with excellent golf resorts and a lively downtown *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Biscayne National Park]]|url=|lat=25.469444|long=-80.186111|wikidata=Q866080}} – A massive marine park protecting a wide range of animals and coral reefs *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Canaveral National Seashore]]|url=|lat=28.7675|long=-80.776944|wikidata=Q5031230}} – The longest stretch of unspoiled beach on the Atlantic coast, near rocket launches *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Everglades National Park]]|url=|lat=25.3125|long=-80.6875|wikidata=Q274131}} – Massive, vital, and delicate ecosystem protecting a great variety of plants and animals *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Florida Keys]]|url=|lat=24.666944|long=-81.544167|wikidata=Q537749}} – Chain of islands stretching into the Caribbean, offering tropical scenery and a laid-back lifestyle *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gulf Islands National Seashore]]|url=|lat=30.364444|long=-86.9675|wikidata=Q3120743}} – 12 islands along the Gulf Coast, featuring excellent beaches and sea turtles *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ocala National Forest]]|url=|lat=29.173611|long=-81.821667|wikidata=Q2013302}} – Extensive inland forest giving visitors a taste of old Florida charm *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Walt Disney World]]|url=|lat=28.385233|long=-81.563874|wikidata=Q206859}} – The "happiest place on earth", encompassing 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, and countless other amenities There are also articles on aspects of the state's history: [[Spanish Florida]] and [[Seminole Wars]]. ==Understand== While Florida is considered to be part of the [[South (United States of America)|South]], it originated not as a British colony, but as a Spanish one. As a result, the state has a unique history. Although Florida was a founding member of the Confederate States of America, and like other Southern states shared the experience of slavery and racial segregation during its history, today, Florida is a '''very diverse''' state, and contains a number of regions with slight cultural differences of their own that contribute to the state's diversity. Therefore, no one accent dominates in the speech of its residents, and it's often said that Florida is the only state that gets more "Southern" the farther ''north'' you go, and that is indeed true in a cultural sense. For a long time, Florida had been a swing state in presidential elections, almost evenly divided between Republicans and Democrats. However, a large influx of retirees in the 21st century has swung the political balance in favor of the Republicans as of the 2020s. ===History=== {{see also|Spanish Florida|British Florida}} Florida was inhabited by [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native Americans]] for over 13,000 years before the arrival of European explorers, colonists and slavers. It is estimated that there were some 350,000 inhabitants, of many tribes, when the Spanish explorer '''Juan Ponce de León''' arrived in 1513 in search of, according to legend, the Fountain of Youth. The first European settlement dates back to the 1560s with [[St. Augustine]], established in 1565, holding the distinction of being the oldest permanent European settlement in what is now the United States. However, this early settlement did not lead to the same level of rapid colonization that took place in the British colonies to the north, as the climate made large-scale settlement, especially inland, difficult for Europeans who were used to milder climates. Attempted settlements by Europeans, such as the [[New Smyrna Beach]] colony owned by a British man who employed former inhabitants of the Balearic Islands, were not always successful as challenges of climate and disease took their toll on the residents, who themselves ultimately moved to [[St. Augustine]]. From this time onward the state would not see large-scale economic and population expansion until Florida's statehood in the 19th century, when agriculture &mdash; including notably orange trees &mdash; and later tourism would achieve important roles in the state's economy. Along with the climate challenges, battles and competing claims for the region posed a challenge to the region's settlers. However, many Africans and African-Americans moved to Florida during the territory's early years because King Charles of Spain had issued a royal proclamation freeing all slaves who fled to [[Spanish Florida]], if they converted to Catholicism. {{Infobox|Shooting for the Stars|A source of pride and joy in Florida is its outsize role in the history of [[space exploration]]. Cape Canaveral began to be used for missile launches in 1949, and following President John F. Kennedy's vow to put American astronauts on the Moon before the end of the 1960s, early space flights took place there on converted missiles. The most important launches by NASA, including the Apollo 11 moon launch watched around the world in 1969, have taken place at the John F. Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral. Unfortunately, however, to make way for the creation of the space center, many residents of the Cape Canaveral region, including some African-Americans, were required by the government to leave Cape Canaveral, and little remains of the settlements that once existed in the Cape Canaveral region.}} Native Americans, including members of the Calusa tribe, fought effectively to defend their tribal lands from European colonization of the region; therefore it was some time before Europeans established colonies. However, once Europeans took control of the Florida region, oppression and killing of '''Native Americans''' &mdash; often as a result of war or disease &mdash; was tragic as it was in many other regions of the Americas. Following substantial depopulation of the state's native tribes, the Seminole tribe moved in and established themselves in Florida in the 18th century, though several conflicts between the Spanish, attempting to maintain Florida, and Americans attempting to annex the region, made an already disputed territory's political situation complex for Native Americans and settlers. Native Americans living in Florida fought hard and continued to guard their independence after Spanish Florida was ceded to the United States in 1821. The new territory of the U.S. was a slave plantation economy, much like the rest of the South at the time; the Seminoles gladly welcomed runaway slaves and accepted them into their tribe. However, after the [[Seminole Wars|Second Seminole War]], almost the entire tribe was deported west of the Mississippi River as part of the [[Trail of Tears]]. Florida was admitted to the Union as a slave state in 1845, but seceded and joined the '''Confederacy''' with the rest of the South in 1861. Largely untouched by the [[American Civil War]], the state enforced Jim Crow segregation laws against its then very large (approximately 44%) black population for a century after the Confederates' defeat. By the early 20th century, Florida had more lynchings per capita than any other state. However, there were three '''20th-century migrations''' that fundamentally changed the character of Florida, to the extent that many people no longer consider much of the state to be culturally Southern: the move of one-fifth of the state's African-American population to the Northern United States as part of the Great Migration during the first decades of the 20th century; the arrival of an increasing number of white retirees from the North after the spread of air conditioning in the 1950s; and the arrival of several waves of Cuban immigrants after the victory of Fidel Castro in 1959, who established themselves primarily in South Florida, particularly [[Miami-Dade County|Dade County]]. Florida has also seen major influxes of Latino immigrants from Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Central and South America, and Mexico, and there have also been many Haitian immigrants. ===Culture=== [[File:The Call-Collins House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida (7157983334).jpg|thumb|The Call-Collins Plantation House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida ]] Florida is geographically the southernmost of the contiguous United States, and it is a '''unique blend''' of societies. The [[Florida Panhandle]], much of [[North Florida]], rural areas of [[Central Florida]], and the [[Florida Heartland]] remain part of the cultural region of [[South (United States of America)|the South]], where you will find traditional southern cooking, entertainment, dialect, and lifestyles, much as you would expect in states like [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] or [[Alabama]]. Generally, the further south you go in the state, the more unlike the South it seems, and although Southern culture can be found in every region of the state, it is not always prevalent. Cities such as [[Tampa]] and [[Orlando]] offer the feel of the South, alongside many other cultures. There are a lot of Southerners in these areas, but also many people who are from other areas like the [[Midwest]] or the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. [[Miami]], on the other hand, is unique in that it feels like a cross between an American metropolis and a major Latin American city (like [[Rio de Janeiro|Rio]] or [[São Paulo]]). There are some Seminole Native American reservations and villages throughout southern Florida, namely in the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]], and their indigenous culture can be experienced by visiting a shop and browsing arts and crafts. The southernmost [[Florida Keys]] offer yet another flavor, full of the casual, slow-paced atmosphere of beach life. In short, Florida is a full-fledged region of the [[United States]] in its own right.[[File:Miami Beach FL Arch Dist Collins Ave down south01.jpg|thumb|267x267px|A view south on Collins Avenue in the [[Miami Beach/South Beach|Miami Beach Architectural District]]]] Much of the southern part of Florida is inhabited by people of Hispanic or Latino origin. The region that is substantially to in places majority Hispanic or Latino extends north to Orlando. There are large Cuban and Puerto Rican populations in [[Miami]] and the south side of [[Greater Orlando]], respectively. The white population is higher to the north, and by the northern border with Georgia and Alabama, the Hispanic/Latino population is very low. The Black or African-American population is primarily on the mainland and throughout the state, with historically Black communities and history in the [[Daytona Beach]] metro area, [[Jacksonville]], and Gadsden County in the Panhandle. The ethnic diversity of Florida, while not particularly cosmopolitan outside of certain urban centers, has contributed substantially to the culture, with Spanish spoken in some areas, but in the north, a tendency toward American cuisine and English language exists with few alternatives and much of the population of this region are known by outsiders as "rednecks." There are smaller communities of ethnic minorities including those of Anglo- or Franco-Caribbean or Middle Eastern origin, but these have a smaller impact on the state's culture than the largest ethnic groups. Due to a combination of factors, despite the state's high urbanization relative to many other Southern states, it does not lean as "liberal" as many comparably urban and ethnically diverse states in the North. The state is considered to be on the tipping point between left and right, but despite the prominently right-wing government that scraped through the 2018 elections, the state as a whole is middle of the road for the U.S. Orlando, state capital [[Tallahassee]], [[Fort Lauderdale]] and college town [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] lean left while most of Miami, [[Tampa]]-[[St Petersburg]], southwest Florida, parts of the east coast and rural inland and Panhandle lean conservative when compared with demographically similar communities in other parts of the country. However, almost all regions of the state are politically diverse. ===Landscape=== Florida's '''coastline is world class''', with several gorgeous beaches, bays, and estuaries. The Floridian landscape is extremely flat, however, with lakes and wetlands scattered throughout most of the state, though a mixture of ecosystems distract from the lack of topography. The only exceptions are parts of Highlands, Polk, Lake, and a few other counties in the center of the state where rolling hills are common. The highest point in the state is the {{ft|345}} Britton Hill on the Panhandle, and the {{ft|298}} Iron Mountain in Polk County is the highest point on the Peninsula. Florida's cities tend to be big, sprawling, and well-developed, but not as close to each other as an atlas might imply. Despite being a densely-populated state, there are fortunately still several expanses of wilderness left, although these are often near or between populated urban areas. Some rural parts of the state grow citrus and sugar cane, but farmland tends to be in regions outside the usual tourist areas. The [[Florida Panhandle]] and most of [[North Florida]] consist of farmland and pine trees, but as you travel south, you'll see more wetlands and urbanization, culminating at the Everglades in the far south of the state near Miami. The [[Florida Keys]] are a small chain of tropical islands with their own unique geography. ===Climate=== [[Image:Frances 2004-09-05 1815Z.jpg|thumb|293x293px|right|Hurricane Frances makes landfall on the morning of September 5, 2004 near Stuart. Its impact, however, was felt throughout Central Florida and most of Florida's east coast.]] Florida is known around the world for warm and sunny weather and this has led to the state being a major tourist destination. Florida has the mildest winters on the US mainland, and retirees and temporary residents known as "snowbirds", flock to the state in the cold season. Coastal areas experience gentle breezes during the summer, and the beach is usually the coolest place to be. While those coastal breezes are a welcome relief from the scorching temperatures, they are also the cause of a well-known Florida weather feature: '''thunderstorms'''. While the storms are often brief, they are common, and anyone visiting Florida during the rainy season (mid-June to September) should plan a few indoor activities in the afternoons as a backup. Florida's thunderstorms occur every day during the rainy season and typically form 20-30mi (32-48km) inland and either move toward the center of the state or toward the coast. Due to this, rain can be occurring just a few miles inland from the coast, while those at the beach experience a beautiful day. While the storms cool the air, bringing a welcome though often short relief to stifling temperatures, many produce considerable amounts of '''dangerous lightning''' and some bring hail, high winds of 50 mph (80 km/h) or more, and tornadoes. See the "stay safe" section for thunderstorm safety. Many tourist areas, such as [[Walt Disney World]], have multiple attractions available even during downpours. The spring is the driest time of the year, leading to wildfires nearly every May and early June. The six-month '''[[Hurricane safety|hurricane]] season''' runs from June 1 through November 30 and Floridians have learned to be ready when a storm threatens the area. If you plan on visiting during the months of June through November and especially during the peak of the hurricane season from August through October, stay aware of the news and weather advisories. Information is available from the [http://www.nhc.noaa.gov National Hurricane Center]. Cyclones are unlikely but possible in the month of May. From June through October is the hot and wet season in Florida. High temperatures are often in the 80s to 90s F (30-32 C) and lows in the 70s (24 C). Heat indices typically range between {{F|75}} and {{F|97}}, but on some of the hottest days, the heat indices can climb to {{F|107}} and not go below {{F|80}} at night. The Bermuda High pumps in hot and unstable tropical air from the Bahamas and Gulf of Mexico, which help create the daily thundershowers that are typical in summer months in Florida. Intense but very brief downpours are common in summer in much of Florida. Normally, the wet season starts to fade by early November in northern Florida and reaches southern Florida by late November. From December through April the weather in much is Florida is mild and often dry. The dry season (or winter) is often the driest and most sunny season in Florida, Average high temperatures range from the low 60's in northern Florida to the mid 70's F in far southern Florida. Overnight lows fall to the middle 40's in northern Florida to near 60 F in far southern Florida. A few times each winter, a strong cold front may drop temperatures to near freezing across northern Florida, though in many years there is no freeze at all from central Florida southward. In the driest months, Florida often has long periods of rain-less weather, and by April drought conditions with brush fires and water restrictions are sometimes in place. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitflorida.com/ Visit Florida] website ==Talk== '''English''' is the official language of the state. However, [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]] is the native language of approximately 20% of Florida residents, and the further south you go, the more Spanish speakers there will be. In some parts of [[South Florida]], Spanish is the preferred language in everyday activities. [[Miami]] is most notable, where nearly 80% of residents do not speak English as their native language and 30% do not speak any English at all. [[Tampa]] also has a sizable Spanish-speaking population, and neighborhoods where it is almost exclusively spoken. Like anywhere where there is a large presence of another language, expect Spanish words or expressions used or calqued into everyday English. Gullah, a distinctive English-based creole, is spoken by some African-American communities along the northeastern coast, near the border with Georgia. Native-born non-Hispanic Floridians from the northern part of the state will usually speak with a Southern accent. However, after the migration of millions of Americans from all over the country to the central and southern parts of the state, the Southern dialect is becoming diluted with other accents. Residents of Miami often speak in a distinctive accent with strong influences from Cuban Spanish. ==Get in== [[Image:Orlando International Airport hotel rooms.jpg|227x227px|thumb|A full-service Marriott hotel is directly within Orlando International Airport]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Air travel in the United States}} *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Orlando International Airport]]|wikidata=Q929859}} ({{IATA|MCO}}) - your choice airport for [[Disney World]] and the other attractions in [[Central Florida]]. Located south of downtown [[Orlando]], this airport offers tons of car rentals and free shuttles to Disney and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]] for visitors. Being centrally located it serves as a hub or focus city for Jetblue, Frontier, and Southwest Airlines. There are international connections from South America, Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, Europe and the Middle East. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Miami International Airport]]|wikidata=Q127530}} ({{IATA|MIA}}) - the biggest airport for travel in [[South Florida]], it's the best option for trips to the [[Everglades]] or [[Miami|Miami's]] beaches. The airport is a hub for American Airlines and the most popular entry point with a wide variety of flights from Europe, South America, Central America, the Caribbean, Cuba and Mexico. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Tampa#By plane|Tampa International Airport]]|wikidata=Q571536}} ({{IATA|TPA}}) - serves the Gulf Coast, namely the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area. There are direct flights offered from all over the U.S. and from a number of international destinations in Canada, Cuba, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Fort Lauderdale#By plane|Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport]]|wikidata=Q635361}} ({{IATA|FLL}}) - the fourth-largest airport in Florida, and another valid option to consider with many domestic low-fare carriers such as Allegiant, JetBlue, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Jacksonville#By plane|Jacksonville International Airport]]|wikidata=Q1431579}} ({{IATA|JAX}}) - primary airport for travel in [[North Florida]], serving [[Amelia Island]] and historic [[St. Augustine]]. Other large airports can be found in [[Pensacola]], [[Fort Myers]], [[Tallahassee]], [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]]/[[Clearwater]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Sarasota]], [[Key West]], [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], [[Melbourne (Florida)|Melbourne]], and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]]. There are many more airports throughout Florida that may get you closer to your destination; watch for these smaller airports while researching your destination. ===By car=== [[File:Brickell skyline 2012.jpg|thumb|The skyline of [[Miami/Brickell|Brickell, Miami]]|240x240px]] Three [[Driving in the United States|Interstate highways]] connect Florida with adjacent states: * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|Interstate 10 (I-10)]]''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and passes through the center of the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]] and across [[North Florida]] until its terminus in Jacksonville. Interstate 10 is most convenient for travelers from [[Louisiana]], [[Texas]], and areas farther west. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' also enters Florida from Georgia and passes through the center of the state until the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area, after which it follows the Gulf of Mexico coast (10-20 mi/16-32 km inland) to [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], where it heads due east across the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]] to Fort Lauderdale. Interstate 75 is most convenient for travelers arriving from [[Atlanta]] and the [[Midwest]]. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] just north of [[Jacksonville]] and parallels the Atlantic coast, never more than 25 miles inland, until its terminus south of downtown [[Miami]]. Interstate 95 provides the most convenient route for people from the East Coast, [[New England]], eastern parts of [[Canada]]. Jacksonville, [[Daytona Beach]], and the Miami-[[Fort Lauderdale]]-[[West Palm Beach]] area are all serviced by I-95, with access to [[Orlando]] provided via Interstate 4. * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''I-4''' does not cross any state line but is still called an interstate. It crosses the state from Gulf to East coast, passing from Tampa in the west through Orlando and ending at the western boundary of Daytona Beach. It curves to the north on its easternmost segment. The road, particularly on the north side of Orlando, is notoriously dangerous, and the frequent thunderstorms in addition to ongoing road work don't help with this concern. The speeds on this road are high and speed limits are ignored by most, but as a quick route there are few comparable alternatives and it does a good job of connecting the suburbs. Additional major highways entering Florida include: * [[File:US 1.svg|link=US Route 1#Florida|22px]] '''[[US Route 1|US-1]]''' enters Florida north of Jacksonville and snakes along the east coast between Interstate 95 and the Intracoastal Waterway/Atlantic Ocean. Unlike I-95, US 1 continues past Miami and is routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US-27''' enters Florida from western Georgia and provides access to the state capital, [[Tallahassee]], before routing through mostly rural areas of the peninsula. Down the center of the state between Florida's Turnpike and Miami, US 27 is a primary trucking route, and as such this route can be a hassle while dealing with heavy traffic. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US-98''' enters Florida near Pensacola and remains close to the Gulf of Mexico coast until the Panhandle meets the Florida peninsula at the "Big Bend" area. Unlike I-10 to the north, which runs through the interior of the Panhandle away from the coast, US 98 provides a scenic drive and convenient access to the beaches. After leaving the Panhandle, US 98 runs diagonally down the peninsula to West Palm Beach through primarily rural areas. * [[File:US 231.svg|22px]] '''US-231''' enters Florida from Alabama and crosses the Panhandle north-south to its southern terminus at [[Panama City Beach]]. US 231 provides convenient access to the Panhandle from the Midwest via it connection with Interstate 65 in [[Montgomery]]. * [[File:US 301.svg|22px]] '''I-301''' enters Florida just north of Jacksonville and was once the main route from the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. It is a very scenic alternative to I-95 with a lot less traffic. Exiting I-95 at Santee, [[South Carolina]] motorists can follow US 301 through Georgia and into Florida and connect to I-95 again in Jacksonville for Atlantic coast destinations, or continue on to join I-75 at [[Ocala]] for Tampa and the Gulf coast. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to Florida from neighboring states and from the major airports in the states. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''[[Florida#By_bus_2|By bus]]'' under ''Get around'' for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By train=== [[Rail travel in the United States|Amtrak]] has two services to Florida: *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/auto-train.html Amtrak Auto Train]''' ''(Trains #52 & 53)'' carries passengers and automobiles between [[Lorton]], [[Virginia]] and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford, Florida]] (north of [[Orlando]]), effectively serving as a car-rail link to Florida from the [[Washington, D.C.]] metro area. This train makes no stops between Lorton & Sanford and is a way to cut back on the extra mileage and wear and tear on the car. *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/silver-service-palmetto-train.html Amtrak Silver Service]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92 and #97 & 98 respectively)'' are two routes that both begin in [[New York City]] and end in [[Miami]]. The trains follow the same route heading to Florida, except in [[North Carolina|North]] and [[South Carolina]]. Within the state, the trains run the same line from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Kissimmee]]. There, they split again, and the Silver Star (Trains #91 & 92) diverges to head west towards [[Lakeland]] and [[Tampa]] while the Silver Meteor (Trains #97 & 98) continues south towards [[Winter Haven]]. Both routes meet again further south and serve the rest of the stations along Florida's east coast to Miami. ===By boat=== Florida is possibly the largest state for [[Cruise ships|cruise ship]] vacations in the United States. [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Tampa]], [[Miami]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] are all popular starting ports, with cruises heading throughout the [[Caribbean]]. There are also many short-term casino cruises that depart from [[Pinellas County]] and around [[South Florida]]. [http://www.ferryexpress.com/ Ferry service]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is also available to and from the [[Bahamas]], with service between [[Fort Lauderdale]] and [[Freeport (Bahamas)|Freeport]], and between Miami and [[Bimini]]. ==Get around== [[File:Overseas Highway bridge.jpg|thumb|The Overseas Highway to Key West.]] ===By car=== Traveling by car is the most common and most convenient way to get around the state for travelers and locals alike. For the traveler car rental agencies are abound in Florida and many are available at every major airport. [[Orlando]], in particular, is known as the "Car Rental Capital of the World". With Florida being the most visited state in the US, car rental rates here are among (if not) the lowest rates in the country due to sheer volume. '' '''Florida's major highways include:''' '' * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 4 (I-4)''' crosses diagonally from [[Tampa]], heads east through [[Plant City]] and [[Lakeland]], then continues northeast past [[Kissimmee]], [[Walt Disney World]], and [[Orlando]], before ending at Interstate 95 near [[Daytona Beach]]. Interstate 4 is the most travelled highway in Florida and due to the large volume of traffic, high speeds (70 mph,112 km/h outside of urban areas), construction, and large number of tourists it is also the most dangerous highway in the state, in terms of the number of accidents. * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] & [[File:US 90.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|I-10]]''' and '''US-90''' enter Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and travels across the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]], past [[Tallahassee]] and [[Lake City]], and through rural [[North Florida]] to its terminus at I-95 in Jacksonville. US Hwy 90 straddles I-10 through the northern Florida Panhandle, going through the cities and towns as a local surface street/highway while I-10 goes straight through bypassing the cities and towns. US Hwy 90 continues past the I-95 corridor in downtown Jacksonsville and ends at FL A1A at Jacksonville Beach. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' enters Florida from Georgia and runs south through the center of the peninsula past [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] and [[Ocala]] before crossing just east of Tampa, where it then parallels the Gulf coast past [[Bradenton]], [[Sarasota]], [[Fort Myers]], and [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], after which it travels due east across the [[Everglades]] (a section known as 'Alligator Alley') to the Miami suburbs. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]], north of [[Jacksonville]], and travels down the Atlantic coast past [[St. Augustine]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Vero Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] before ending at US 1 just south of downtown [[Miami]]. * [[File:Florida's_Turnpike_shield.svg|link=https://www.floridasturnpike.com|22px]] The '''[https://floridasturnpike.com/ Florida Turnpike]''' is a toll road that runs from I-75 south of Ocala, through Orlando, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale before ending south of Miami. It provides the easiest access to Orlando and southeast Florida for persons entering the state via I-75 or I-10. * [[File:I-275.svg|22px]] '''I-275''' is a secondary Interstate that runs from I-75 north of the Tampa area, past downtown Tampa and [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], where it crosses the 5.5-mile-long (8.8km), 193 foot-tall (58.8m) Sunshine Skyway Bridge before it rejoins I-75 south of Bradenton. Interstate 75 ''does not'' provide access to these areas, it instead passes through rural and suburban areas 10 miles east of Tampa. * [[File:US 1.svg|22px]] '''[[US Route 1#Florida|US-1]]''' is a historic and scenic highway that travels down the Atlantic coast between I-95 and the ocean before being routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:Florida A1A.svg|22px]] '''FL-A1A''' runs parallel to US Hwy 1 as the coastal highway along the east coast. It serves the beach communities as a local street (such as Collins Ave in Miami Beach or Ocean Dr in Ft Lauderdale) in the offshore islands/keys along the entire east coast. It is fragmented and does not run continuously from South Beach to Fernadina Beach. It runs concurrent on US Hwy 1 in places where it is not a separate road. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US 27''' is a well-traveled alternative to Florida's Turnpike and runs from Miami, along Lake Okeechobee and through the mostly-rural [[Florida Heartland|Heartland]] of Florida before continuing through Ocala, Gainesville, and Tallahassee. * [[File:US 41.svg|22px]] '''US 41''' runs west from Miami on a scenic 2-lane journey through the Everglades, and then travels along the Gulf Coast, around the east side of Tampa Bay, and north into Georgia. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US 98''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] at Pensacola and travels a very scenic route along the Gulf Coast of the Panhandle, after which it continues diagonally across the peninsula to its terminus in West Palm Beach. ===By plane=== Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state especially between South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) and the Panhandle (Pensacola and Tallahassee) while others will be relatively short (Ft Lauderdale to Orlando). '''[http://www.atlanticairlines.com/ Atlantic Airlines]''', '''[https://www.allegiantair.com Allegiant]''' (Key west to St Petersburg & Sanford); '''[https://www.flybreeze.com Breeze]''', '''[http://www.aa.com American Airlines/American Eagle]''', '''[https://www.flyfrontier.com Frontier]''', '''[https://www.JetBlue.com JetBlue]''', and '''[https://www.southwest.com/ Southwest]''' offer intrastate flights between cities in Florida. ===By bus=== The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There is fairly frequent service from Orlando (as a 'de-facto' hub) to Naples (via Tampa Bay, Ft Myers); South Florida (W Palm Peach, Ft Lauderdale, Miami); Jacksonville (via Daytona Beach, Ft Pierce); and the Panhandle (via Gainesville, Ocala, Tallahassee) with multiple companies. Others offer connections to the Keys through Miami-Dade and north towards Jacksonville along I-95 without going through Orlando. Check schedules. Many of the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns are not listed, check the article of your destination and the schedules of the company for all the transportation options. Information on transit (local public transportation) can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]: * {{go | name=Greyhound Lines / Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-231-2222 | hours= | price= | content=Connects South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) to Tampa, Naples and Jacksonville through Orlando with onward connections to Atlanta, Savannah, Houston and other cities north from Orlando. They also operate a less frequent service from Miami to Tampa via Belle Glade, Clewiston and Ft Myers. They also go south to Key West via the Florida Keys from Miami and north towards Jacksonville from Miami along I-95. Check schedules. }} * {{go | name=Jet Set Express | alt= | url=https://www.miamiorlando.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407 649-4994 | tollfree= | hours=Venue at stop open 24/7 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-29 | content=Thrice Daily departures to Ft Pierce, Kissimmee, Orlando from the Miami. Check schedules for a listing of other stops which are serviced once or twice daily. }} * {{go | name=Keys Shuttle | alt= | url=http://www.keysshuttle.com/ | email= | address=| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-289-9997 | tollfree=+1-888-765-9997 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-12 | content=The company provides door-to-door service to the Keys from the Miami and Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airports (and vice versa). }} * {{go | name=La Cubana Express | alt= | url=https://lacubanaxpress.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-541-1700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-27 | content=Connects Miami to New York City through Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Washington, DC; Elkton, Maryland; Philadelphia and New Jersey on a single route. In Florida they serve Miami, Ft Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Deltona and Jacksonville. }} * {{go | name=Our Bus | alt=Operated by different bus companies on contract to Our Bus | url=https://ourbus.com/ | email= | address=Terminal B of the Port of Miami Cruise Terminal | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 844 800-6828 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Fares range from $10 to $22 or more | content=Operates service between the Miami Cruise Terminals, Ft Lauderdale Airport, Tampa, Sarasota and Ft Myers. }} * {{go | name=Redcoach | alt= | url=https://www.redcoachusa.com/florida/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407-851-2843 | tollfree=+1-877-733-0724 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-22 | content=Service from Tallahassee to Miami via Ocala, Gainesville and Ft Lauderdale. One branch go through Orlando through Ft Pierce, W Palm Beach and Pompano Beach. Another go through Tampa, Ft Myers and Naples. }} There are a number of local and regional public transportation agencies that offer intercity bus services throughout the state. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]. ===By train=== *[[File:Brightline Train At Ft Lauderdale Station.jpg|thumb|251x251px|A Brightline train at the station in Fort Lauderdale.]]'''[https://www.amtrak.com/silver-service-palmetto-train Amtrak Silver Star]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92)'' and '''Silver Meteor''' ''(Trains #97 & 98)'' - This is a relatively expensive option but will suffice if other means are not possible. Both routes span from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Miami]]. While the two routes are slightly different, they both stop at the following stations: [[Jacksonville]], [[Palatka]], [[DeLand]], [[Winter Park (Florida)|Winter Park]], [[Orlando]], [[Kissimmee]], [[Winter Haven]], [[Sebring]], [[Okeechobee]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Delray Beach]], [[Deerfield Beach]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], [[Hollywood (Florida)|Hollywood]], and [[Miami]]. The slight difference between the two routes is that the Silver Star detours to [[Lakeland]] (to/from the north only) and [[Tampa]] (to/from the south only) while the Silver Meteor proceeds directly to Winter Haven from Kissimmee. * {{listing | name=Sun Rail | alt= | url=http://www.sunrail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 724-5411 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 5AM-11:30PM | price=$2-5 one way | wikipedia=SunRail | wikidata=Q3503715 | lastedit=2019-01-06 | content=Sun Rail is a north-south train on weekdays through [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]], Orlando, and Kissimmee, from Poinciana at its southern end, and DeBary at its northern end. Bus connection is provided from Orlando International Airport to the Sand Lake Road station by Linx routes 11, 42 and 111; and from Orlando-Sanford International Airport to the Sanford station by Linx route 46E. }} * {{listing | name=Tri-Rail | alt= | url=http://www.tri-rail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 954 783-6030 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 4AM-11:35PM (different weekends) | price=$2.50-11.55 for one-day pass |wikipedia=|wikidata=|image=| lastedit=2019-02-24 | content=The regional rail for South Florida with a single 18-station route from its north end at Mangonia Park, through Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach to its south end Miami Airport. It runs the same route as the Amtrak Silver Service from Miami to West Palm Beach with the same shared stops at West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood. This train is connected to Miami International Airport by the MIA Mover shuttle train, to the Fort Lauderdale Airport by a shuttle bus, and to the West Palm Beach Airport by Palm Transit bus route 42 or 44 and the Tri-Rail Shuttle Bus. }} * {{listing | name=Brightline | alt= | url=http://gobrightline.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Several departures daily | price=$20-350 roundtrip | lastedit=2024-03-30 | content=A private railroad running passenger trains since early 2018, initially between Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, with service to Miami added in the summer of 2018. An extension to Orlando International Airport from West Palm Beach was opened in 2023. Plans are underway to continue the route from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World, and eventually to Tampa. Brightline trains operate on separate tracks and stations than Amtrak and local commuter trains (which are shared with each other). }} ===By ferry=== A high speed ferry service, the '''[http://www.seakeywestexpress.com Key West Express],''' operates from the cities of [[Fort Myers]] and [[Marco Island]] with daily service to the Historic Seaport district of [[Key West]]. The ferry ride takes approximately 3½ hours and the Fort Myers vessels have a capacity exceeding 300 passengers. Amenities include outdoor sundecks, flat-screen TVs, galley service and a full bar. ==See== [[Image:Gatorland.JPG|thumb|right|Gatorland in Orlando.|206x206px]]The {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/ Kennedy Space Center]|wikidata=Q6389687|lat=|long=}} in [[Cape Canaveral]] was America's spaceport for the manned missions to the Moon and the Space Shuttle. The Visitor Complex contains spacecraft displays, two IMAX movies, the Astronaut's Hall of Fame, exhibits chronicling the history and future of space exploration, and a Space Shuttle Launch Experience.[[Image:FL-PonceInletLighthouse.jpg|thumb|The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse in [[Ponce Inlet]].|221x221px]]Florida has a long and complex history and is worth visiting for those interested in [[historical travel]]. {{marker|type=see|name=[[St. Augustine]]|wikidata=Q487988}}, founded by the Spanish in 1565, is the United States' oldest permanent European settlement. It contains a large colonial fort, multiple attractions and site detailing its history, countless restaurants and bars, and plenty of shops in its small, walkable downtown. '''[[Florida Lighthouses|Florida's Lighthouses]]''' are numerous, historic, and beautiful; take some time to visit these iconic images of the coast. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.flholocaustmuseum.org/ The Florida Holocaust Museum]|wikidata=Q884852|lat=|long=}} in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], this is one of the largest Holocaust museums in the U.S. and exhibits a box car used by Nazis to transport prisoners to extermination camps like [[Auschwitz]]. {{Marker|type=see|name=[http://www.salvadordalimuseum.org/ Salvador Dalí Museum]|wikidata=Q674427|lat=|long=}}, also in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|St. Petersburg]], is the largest collection of Dalí artwork outside of Europe. [[Sports]] are popular in the state of Florida, and particularly well-known is {{marker|type=see|name=Daytona International Speedway|wikidata=Q1179250}} near FL-92 and I-95 in [[Daytona Beach]]. The famous speedway venue is home of the number one event in stock car racing, NASCAR's Daytona 500 (February), along with other events throughout the year. '''[[Baseball in the United States#Spring Training|Spring Training baseball]]''' occurs throughout the state in late February and March, and offers the ability to watch your favorite players for discount prices (front row tickets can be purchased as low as $15-20) and in smaller, more intimate venues. {{marker|type=see|name=Sunshine Skyway Bridge|wikidata=Q2302271}} is the longest cable-stayed bridge in the world and an engineering masterpiece crossing the mouth of Tampa Bay. Two long fishing piers beside the bridge, the approaches of the previous bridge, are renowned among local fishermen and provide a less expensive alternative for saltwater fishing. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.ybor.org/ Ybor City]|wikidata=Q3572050|lat=|long=}} (pronounced ee-bor) is one of the largest party districts in the country, with countless bars, restaurants, clubs, and cigar stores, located near downtown [[Tampa]], easily accessible by car or with the free and historic streetcar service. Ybor City has a very historic and authentic feel, with a combination of Latin and Italian influence. Not just a nightlife district, however, with many cultural sights and restaurants open during the day. ===Wildlife=== {{see also|Marine life|Natural springs in Florida}} [[File:Alligator on the St Johns River.jpg|thumb|One of Florida's famous [[Dangerous animals#Alligators and crocodiles|alligators]]]] Alligators, crocodiles, manatees, bears, armadillos, dolphins, spoonbills...Florida's diverse array of habitats are home to a variety of wild animals. Alligators and their relatives can be seen in captivity at the Alligator Farm in [[Saint Augustine]], and the {{marker|type=see|name=Saint John's River|wikidata=Q1677915}}, which was expanded to better accommodate riverboats, is also an excellent place to see wildlife. An abundance of marinas and boat tours that exist in the cities north of Orlando have access to this river. It's lined with trees of various species, along with a variety of bird life. To see wild alligators, try [[Everglades National Park]] or [[Myakka River State Park]], and you can see manatees at [[Blue Spring State Park]] or [[Hernando County#Do|Weeki Wachee Springs]]. {{marker|type=see|name=Gatorland|wikidata=Q689585}} in [[Orlando]] is full of Florida's most unique animal and is one of the oldest tourist attractions in the state. Unfortunately, with all the exotic wildlife come a host of insects, especially during the May-October period. These are often encountered outdoors, especially in forested areas, during the summer and are attracted by that season's hot, humid weather, so if you visit between May and early fall, expect to encounter mosquitoes or even "lovebugs". Lovebugs, which are typically seen for just a few weeks during spring and fall, are completely harmless except for the mess they make on moving cars, and are so named because they are seen in pairs. Even more developed areas, if near forests, can attract mosquitoes. Along with the fauna is flora in its abundance (and variety) due to the warm and wet climate. === Itineraries === * '''[[U.S. Highway 1|US-1]]''' and '''[[Interstate 10]]''' go through the state. * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' crosses a portion of Lake Ashby in Volusia County, Florida, before entering the rainforest. == Do == [[File:Spaceship Earth at night.jpg|thumb|The world-famous Spaceship Earth at Walt Disney World's [[Walt Disney World/Epcot|Epcot]] theme park.]] {{quote|If you can't find something to do in Florida, you're just boring|author=Guy Fieri|source=[https://web.archive.org/web/20170214011958/http://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do/food/dining/interview-guy-fieri-talks-new-projects-criticism-and-the-triple-d-effect/2312870 as quoted in the ''Tampa Bay Times'']}} * '''Go to the beach!''' You have numerous options here: [[Panama City Beach]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[New Smyrna Beach]], [[St. Pete Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]] and [[Siesta Key]] are some of the best. * Visit Florida's world class '''theme parks and water parks'''. **'''[[Walt Disney World]]''' - The most visited resort in the world, home to four theme parks, two water parks, and shopping, dining, and hotels galore. **[[Universal Orlando|'''Universal Orlando''']] - Disney World's biggest competitor, these three theme parks are home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. **'''SeaWorld''' in [[Orlando]] and '''Legoland''' in nearby [[Winter Haven]]. **'''Busch Gardens''' in [[Tampa]]. *Visit '''[[Everglades National Park]]''', a place like no other on Earth, and take an airboat ride through the swamps. A drive across the Everglades on US 41 is a great way to get a sense of the park's size and scenery. Check out [[Everglades City]] for great attractions. *Explore some of the more than 150 '''[http://www.floridastateparks.org/ Florida State Parks]'''. The only three-time winner of the National Recreation and Park Association's Gold Medal for state park systems. Get a Florida State Parks Annual Pass for free admission to most of the state parks, or discounted admission at [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Skyway Fishing Pier State Park]], [[Homosassa Springs|Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park]] and [[Hernando County|Weeki Wachee Springs State Park]]. *Visit the '''[http://www.seminoletribe.com/ Seminole]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} or [http://miccosukeetribe.com/ Miccosukee]{{Dead link|date=March 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native American]] reservations''' throughout the state. Here you can find out about their history and culture, try their food, and gamble in the casinos on their land, which include several Hard Rock Casinos. *'''Go [[scuba diving]] or snorkeling''' through the many coral reefs, sunken vessels, and diverse array of sea life off of Florida's coasts. The most colorful fish can be seen in the tropical waters of [[Miami]] and further south. *'''Go hiking or [[wilderness backpacking|backpacking]]''' in the many state and national parks and forests that have nature trails suitable for hiking and camping. A particularly good option is the Florida National Scenic Trail, a network of 1400 miles (2253 km) of hiking trails throughout the state. The most popular section of the trail is the 110-mile (177-km) loop encircling Lake Okeechobee. *'''Go fishing''', with some of the best fishing action in the world (both salt and freshwater). Several large and tough fighting species such as Sailfish, Tarpon, and Largemouth Bass can be found lurking in water throughout the state. *'''Take a [[Cruise ships|Cruise]]''' from the Port of [[Miami]], [[Tampa]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], or [[Cape Canaveral]] on longer cruises run by the likes of Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line or [[Disney Cruise Line]]. There are also short nightly casino cruises in various places. *'''View a rocket launch''', which are visible from virtually anywhere in the Peninsula when skies are clear. But the best viewing is up-close from [[Cape Canaveral|Cape Canaveral's]] Kennedy Space Center, [[Cocoa Beach]], [[Canaveral National Seashore]], or [[Titusville (Florida)|Titusville]]. *Check out the '''Florida State Fair''', held every February near Tampa. It hosts an exposition of counties, where each Florida county has a display and a representative to answer questions. In addition, the fair has animal displays and shows, an exhibition dedicated to citrus, various dance & cheerleading competitions, and a large selection of rides and games. ==Buy== Florida is increasingly becoming a '''major destination for shopping'''. The [[Orlando]] and [[Miami]] areas are home to a plethora of shopping malls, including many outlet malls home to shops selling brand-name products for discounted prices. There are also a large number of stores selling souvenirs, although most are not locally produced. The [[Kissimmee]] area near Orlando, especially, has a much larger number of retail stores than is typical of U.S. cities. While traditionally these shops catered largely to American families on vacation, most now serve foreign shoppers who flock to these malls to buy products significantly cheaper than at home. It's not uncommon at some shopping malls in Orlando to encounter tourists from around the globe, especially on weekdays when most Americans are working. In the last few years, [[Brazil]] has become the largest source of international visitors to the state, with many coming on shopping group tours and sometimes wearing matching shirts. Due to this, major shopping centers in the Orlando and Miami areas now offer services in [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]]. Most goods for sale in the state are subject to sales tax. In most of the state the rate is 7%, but it varies from 6-7.5% (6% state sales tax and up to 1.5% local sales tax). This rate is almost never listed on the advertised or displayed prices. ==Eat== [[File:Florida orange grove.JPG|thumb|A typical Florida orange grove near [[Sebring]].]] Florida's cuisine is a mix of many influences and its styles vary across the state from North to South. [[North Florida]] has a more Southern style; [[South Florida]] a more Caribbean one. There specifically, early Spanish and African cuisines have been given a new spin with the impact of Cuban and other Caribbean cultures, as well as from "snowbirds" escaping the Northern U.S. winters. Being on a peninsula, Florida's chefs have always had access to fresh seafood, and the long growing season provides fresh native vegetables almost year round. *'''Citrus''' is a main export, and a tourist is apt to see many roadside stands offering free samples of orange juice and fruits to be shipped or carried home. Florida also grows grapefruit, avocado, mango, papaya, passion fruit, kumquat, coconut and other tropical fruits. These often provide the base for sauces and marinades and are also used in marmalades, soups, and desserts. Official state welcome centers located on I-10, I-75, and I-95 as you enter Florida offer free samples of orange juice to all visitors, a tradition that goes back decades. *'''Strawberries''' are another popular fruit in Florida. [[Plant City]], off I-4 east of [[Tampa]], is the center of the Florida strawberry industry, where during the peak season (Feb-Mar) many roadside vendors offer flats (16 pints/12 lb/5.4 kg) and half-flats of strawberries for a small fraction of grocery store prices. Since most stands are owned by the individual farmers, the fruit sold was often harvested that morning or the day before. Fresh Florida strawberries are a treat no tourist should miss, at least if you visit in-season. *'''Grouper''' is a very popular seafood caught in Florida's coastal waters. Fresh grouper is offered in many coastal cities, where local restaurants buy it straight from fishermen, and it is often served fried or grilled on a sandwich. State inspectors have cracked down to ensure that all restaurants offering "grouper" are in fact serving grouper, and not another less expensive white fish. Snapper, snook, tarpon, marlin, and shark are other Florida fish that you can find at coastal restaurants, although they are not nearly as ubiquitous as grouper. *'''Southern food''' is available throughout most of [[North Florida|North]] and [[Central Florida]]. Barbeque is popular throughout the state, with many small "barbeque shacks" to choose from. Any platter costing over $10 ($15 for ribs) should be avoided as the less expensive restaurants are almost always best. Sweet tea is also common throughout the state, although unlike most areas in the [[South (United States of America)|South]], you have a choice between sweet and unsweet tea. Boiled peanuts, which taste nothing like a regular peanut, can be found at roadside vendors and are certainly worth trying. Dishes such as fried chicken, grits, okra, biscuits & gravy, and collard greens can also be found in restaurants and buffets throughout the state. *'''Cuban food''' is common in the [[Miami]] and [[Tampa]] areas, with the most common dishes being the Cuban sandwich, flan, and black beans & rice. *'''Local specialties''', not readily available in many other locales, include '''alligator'''. It is healthy and most say it tastes like chicken, and it is often prepared like chicken nuggets. '''Key lime pie''', found elsewhere now, is a [[Florida Keys]] invention, made from the local key limes. Florida bans indoor smoking in restaurants, but it is allowed outdoors unless the establishment prohibits it.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Drink== [[File:MIAMI-ArtDeco-rj002.jpg|thumb|The art deco hotels and clubs of Miami's [[Miami Beach/South Beach|South Beach]].]] '''Alcoholic beverages''' abound throughout the state. However, five rural counties in the northern third of the state are "dry counties", and no alcohol is sold in them. Stand-alone liquor stores are often built into strip malls, supermarkets, and pharmacies, and most grocery stores, gas stations, and convenience stores sell beer and wine. '''Bars and clubs''' are popular throughout the state, with [[Miami Beach]] being well-known for a variety of themed and upscale bars with innovative mixed drinks. Unique bars and clubs can also be found in downtown [[Orlando]] and the nearby tourist areas closer to the theme parks and resorts of [[Walt Disney World|Disney]] and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]]. No visit to Florida is complete without a cup of their famous '''orange juice'''. Like every other U.S. state, the purchase and possession age for alcohol is 21 and it's fairly well enforced. Underage drinking "stings" are frequent in most tourist areas. Florida allows smoking in bars, including those that serve food, but the bar must get less than 10% of their revenue from food.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Sleep== == Respect == If you're using a boat or other vehicle, like a jetski, in the water, it may be necessary to significantly reduce speed in areas inhabited by manatees and/or dolphins. Fast-moving vehicles can cause harm to a manatee's respiratory system. Misuse of recreation areas has caused record manatee deaths in 2021. ==Connect== [[File:Siesta Key Beach TV-001-0002.jpg|thumb|The gentle white sands of Siesta Key]] ===Internet=== Essentially all '''hotels''' offer Wi-Fi internet access for guests, and almost always for free; some even have Ethernet ports for higher-speed wired connections. Many '''businesses''' also have free Wi-Fi. This even includes some clothing/department, grocery, and convenience stores in addition to the more typical restaurants and shopping malls. All the main airports have free Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi internet access is also available at '''public libraries'''. It's almost always free for everyone with their own device (laptop, smartphone, tablet). Computers set up for internet access by patrons require a username and password to access; nearly all libraries will issue a "guest pass" for non-cardholders, though there is occasionally a nominal fee. Use of library computers is subject to time limits which vary widely. The large majority of "internet cafes" in the state are actually nominally illegal casinos, set up for online gambling in an attempt to circumvent gambling laws. Such internet cafes do not have typical computers for general use. Instead, they are usually enclosed in a slot machine-style cover with only a few buttons to press, and set up to only view gambling websites. Patrons pay for short periods of time, sometimes using odd methods like buying prepaid phone cards. After a high-profile crackdown on an operator of dozens of such internet cafes, the state banned the opening of all new internet cafes in 2013. ==Stay safe== Dialing '''911''' at any telephone will reach the emergency services (police, fire, ambulance, etc.). Any phone connected to a U.S. network, regardless of whether or not it has a paid account, must be able to dial 911 if it is connected to the network, and such calls are always free. ===Crime=== Florida has varying crime intensity from city to city. In certain areas of the large cities it may not be safe to walk alone or even in small groups at night, although these are the exceptions and most of Florida is safe for visitors. Tourist areas rarely have violent crimes, but theft is an occasional occurrence. If the area doesn't feel safe, then it probably isn't. '''Clip joint''' operators who trick visitors into paying large amounts of money for low-quality services may use local police to shake down voyagers under a Florida law that requires bar and restaurant patrons pay a disputed bill first and take it up later with their credit card company. Avoid getting involved in '''road rage''' incidents while driving in Florida as firearms frequently get involved. If someone cuts you off on the highway (a frequent occurence) just let it go.<!-- http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/04/07/17-charged-south-beach-alcohol-scam.html --> ===Weather=== {{infobox|Extreme Temperatures|''Never leave children or pets in a parked car for any length of time!'' Due to the high temperatures most of the year, the interior of a parked car can easily heat to a '''lethal''' temperature very quickly. During the summer, the interior of a parked car can reach {{convert|130|to|170|F}} in just 15 minutes, regardless of the color of the exterior or interior, nor whether the windows are open a small amount. You not only risk their lives, but '''it is illegal''' and the consequences could be thousands in fines and even imprisonment. Vehicles left containing animals or children ''will'' be broken into by police or bystanders.}} Florida has a high occurrence of '''hurricanes''', though they don't hit the state every year. You might want to check the [[Cyclones|hurricane safety]] page if you are visiting Florida during the Hurricane Season, which runs June 1 to November 30. Few places in the world experience more frequent '''lightning strikes''' than Florida. The summer thunderstorms in Florida produce frequent lightning, which kills people each year and injures many more. Stay indoors during a thunderstorm and ''never'' seek shelter under a tree. Most casualties occur on golf courses, but lightning strikes everywhere. If you must go outdoors during a storm, try to stay away from any tall object, especially trees or anything made of metal. Occasionally, thunderstorms will bring '''hail, high winds, and [[Tornado safety|tornadoes]]'''. While the historical number of tornadoes in Florida is somewhat high, the overwhelming majority have occurred during hurricanes (Hurricane Jeanne alone spawned over 200 tornadoes in Florida). While some do occur during winter cold fronts and summer thunderstorms, 99% of them are weak (F-0/F-1). Thus, while statistics may suggest otherwise, tornadoes are not a big hazard in Florida. Watch where and when you swim. While the beaches are great they sometimes harbor '''rip currents, bacteria, and jellyfish'''. Always check with the lifeguard stand or ranger station before heading in if no one is in the water or if the waves are rough. '''Red tide''' is the name for harmful algal blooms that can occur on Florida's Gulf coast. They cause fish kills and water discoloration, and release toxins into the air that cause respiratory irritation. People with severe or chronic respiratory conditions, such as emphysema or asthma, should avoid areas where red tide is occurring. Swimming in water afflicted by red tide can cause skin and eye irritation and is not recommended. Heavy rain can make the roads dangerous. Although many highway drainage systems in Florida are well-designed by necessity, it can be almost impossible to see through your windshield during the worst rainstorms. Light and torrential rain can be a hundred feet apart, so when you hit heavy rain, it's common for vehicular traffic to slow to speeds as low as 20 mph if necessary, even on major interstates. However, there are a few drivers who ignore the protocol and drive fast anyway. Even though it's common, it's illegal to drive with hazard lights on in the rain. Use them only if you are completely stopped. ===Wildlife=== {{main|Dangerous animals}} '''Alligators''' are a threat throughout Florida (even in inland areas like [[Orlando]] and the [[Walt Disney World]]<!-- http://www.cnn.com/2016/06/15/us/alligator-attacks-child-disney-florida/index.html -->), and it should be assumed that they are present in ''all'' stagnant or slow moving freshwater. ''Never'' swim in any lakes or rivers unless signs tell you swimming is safe, and beware when approaching the water anywhere. Do not allow children or pets to approach the water's edge. '''Bears''' and '''Florida panthers''', common before the arrival of Europeans in Florida, are now both endangered in the state. If you do see either, back off slowly or keep your distance, and make yourself appear larger by waving your arms above your head. When hiking, make lots of noise to avoid startling an animal, and always keep small children close to you. Both species are endangered and protected under Florida law, and harassing or injuring one (even in a vehicle accident) will result in prosecution. [[Volusia County]] is known for a high number of '''shark attacks''', but they can occur anywhere in the state, so be careful when surfing. Even so, the number of attacks are less than 50, with a fatal attack every 2-3 years, amongst ''millions'' of visitors and residents who swim in the ocean. Swimming near dusk and dawn is the most hazardous. '''Lionfish''' are a poisonous and invasive fish that are now present on reefs throughout Florida. They can be identified by their red-and white striped bodies and poisonous spines. Stings are extremely painful and often require hospitalization. Due to their status as an invasive species, any sighting of lionfish should be reported to wildlife management authorities immediately. '''Jellyfish''' are also sometimes common at the beaches, and '''venomous snakes''' can be found year round across the state, so it is good to be wary of both. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== A large number of countries have consulates in and around [[Miami#Consulates|Miami]], with a much smaller number in [[Jacksonville#Consulates|Jacksonville]], [[Orlando#Consulates|Orlando]] and [[Tampa#Consulates|Tampa]]. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are available only in [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]. ==See also== * '''[[British Florida]]''' Although Florida was under Spanish control for most of its history prior to U.S. control, there was a brief period of 20 years during which it was a British colony. During British rule in the region, it was divided into two colonies: East Florida governed from St. Augustine, and West Florida governed from Pensacola. * '''[[Spanish Florida]]''' Prior to its annexation by the United States, Florida was a colony of Spain. From the founding of St. Augustine in 1565 to the collapse of their empire in the 1820s, the Spanish built forts, missions, and attempted to settle the subtropical, humid peninsula despite competition from other European powers. * '''[[Seminole Wars]]''', not as well known as the other wars in which the United States participated in the 19th century, were a significant development of the Indian Removal Wars. Conflicts between British, American, Spanish, and Seminole participants date back to the 18th century, but the most coordinated fighting took place between the Napoleonic Wars and the American Civil War. * '''[[Summer in Florida]]''' is a popular time to visit, for example for its theme parks, because it's when most North Americans have vacations. However, the climate during this period can make travel more complicated, unless your travels are carefully managed * '''[[East Central Regional Rail Trail]]''' * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' ==Go next== * '''[[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]''' - Heading out of Florida to the north is Georgia, with the historic city of [[Savannah]] and the resort beaches of [[Jekyll Island]] close by. * '''[[Alabama]]''' - North of the Panhandle is Alabama, with the historic port of [[Mobile]] and popular resort town [[Gulf Shores]] a short drive away from this region of Florida. * '''[[Caribbean]]''' - The islands of the Caribbean are accessible by boat and plane from across Florida and offer a variety of both relaxing and adventure travel amidst a tropical paradise. For those interested in visiting the '''[[Bahamas]]''' (as the nearest country), many owners of small boats will make the day-long trip to the island chain, and several small airlines offer flights for under $70 each way. Other popular destinations that are fruther from Florida are '''[[Dominican Republic]], [[Puerto Rico]]''', and the '''[[Virgin Islands]]'''. * '''[[Colombia]]''' and '''[[Venezuela]]''' are the nearest countries in '''[[South America]]''' that are 3-4 hours away by plane, on a direct flight from [[South Florida]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]]. * '''[[Cancun]]''' and '''[[Merida (Mexico)|Merida]]''' on the [[Yucatán_and_the_South|Yucatán Peninsula]] are the nearest cities in MExico from [[Miami International Airport|Miami]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]] that are a 2 hr 15 min away by plane. To go further into Mexico, [[Benito Juárez International Airport| Mexico City]] is 3 hr 40 min away from Miami or Orlando. * '''[[Central America]]''' is 2-3 hours on a plane from Miami, Ft Lauderdale and Orlando. <br />{{usableregion}} {{geo|28.1|-82.0|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|United_States}} {{related|Tornado_safety}} f1hrgzbcef8k7353dxl1d98ssmd7200 5288897 5288896 2026-06-06T16:26:18Z Anyone150 1516949 /* Go next */ 5288897 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lummus_Park_Florida_banner.jpg}} {{otheruses}}'''Florida''' is the southernmost state in the continental [[United States of America]]. Known as "The Sunshine State", over a century ago it became a popular winter destination for the well-to-do from colder climates; it has grown to become the second-most visited state in the nation. Tourists have long been drawn to Florida by its white-sand beaches and unique and diverse cities. Since the mid-twentieth century, world-class theme parks and attractions have become a top draw as well. In the 21st century, Florida has become the preferred retirement destination for rich Americans from all over the country. The state's roots in agriculture are still relevant, with oranges being a chief export. Untouched natural landscapes teeming with wildlife exist in vast areas, sometimes very close to cities, and there are miles of rivers and trails for the intrepid visitor. Some of Florida's best secrets are charming small towns and other places in secluded locations, away from the crowded tourist areas but certainly worth seeing. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Florida Static Map.png | regionmaptext=Regions of Florida | regionmapsize=410px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[First Coast]] | region1color=#c68d98ff | region1items= | region1description=The end of the St. Johns River is the location of [[Jacksonville]], one of the largest cities in the state, and some coastal towns including America's oldest city, [[St. Augustine]]. | region2name=[[Volusia County]] | region2color=#a9a567ff | region2items= | region2description=A beach county, also known as the "Fun Coast," frequented by snowbirds, [[Inland Florida]] residents, and fans of the Daytona 500. | region3name=[[Space Coast]] | region3color=#c39dc3ff | region3items= | region3description=The [[Kennedy Space Center]], [[Cape Canaveral]], and some coastal towns to the south are within this region, which is synonymous with Brevard County. | region4name=[[Treasure Coast]] | region4color=#ffd0d0ff | region4items= | region4description=Between Miami and the rest of the Atlantic coast, there are some medium-sized cities here, but it is still more off the beaten path than the counties to the south. | region5name=[[Greater Miami]] | region5color=#4da9c4ff | region5items=[[Palm Beach County]], [[Broward County]], [[Miami-Dade County]] | region5description=Miami and its surroundings (called the "Gold Coast") are known for their ethnic diversity, proximity to Latin America, and tourist appeal along the many miles of beautiful beaches. | region6name=[[Florida Keys]] | region6color=#d5dc76ff | region6items= | region6description=A chain of islands off the southern tip of the peninsula, and one of the state's main tourist destinations with its breathtaking tropical beauty. | region7name=[[Florida West Coast]] | region7color=#80bb89ff | region7items=[[Big Bend Coast]], [[Tampa Bay Area]], [[Southwest Florida]] | region7description=Particularly in the north, more rural than its eastern counterpart, the western coast is known for its Tampa-St. Petersburg metro area and many beautiful beaches in the southwest of the state, with the [[Everglades]] separating the region from Miami. | region8name=[[Florida Panhandle]] | region8color=#d56d76ff | region8items=[[Emerald Coast]], [[Forgotten Coast]], [[Middle Florida]], [[West Florida]] | region8description=The Florida panhandle is a "Deep South" region of antebellum plantations, red hills, and white sand beaches. Cities include the state capital of Tallahassee, Destin, Pensacola, and Panama City Beach. | region9name=[[Inland Florida]] | region9color=#d8a55eff | region9items=[[North Central Florida]], [[Greater Orlando]], [[Lake County (Florida)|Lake County]], [[Polk County (Florida)|Polk County]], [[Florida Heartland]] | region9description=A few cities dot this mostly rural region, including the college town of [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], the theme parks of [[Orlando]], and small towns throughout the rest. }} ==Cities== Below is a selection of some of Florida's most notable cities. Other cities can be found under their specific regions. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tallahassee]]|url=|lat=30.455|long=-84.253333|wikidata=Q37043}} – The state capital and thriving college town home to three schools, including Florida State<!-- capital top, alphabetize the rest --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Fort Lauderdale]]|url=|lat=26.133333|long=-80.15|wikidata=Q165972}} – The "Venice of America" with its expansive canal system, also known for beaches and boating *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Jacksonville]]|url=|lat=30.336944|long=-81.661389|wikidata=Q16568}} – Sprawling city encompassing large beaches, world-class museums, and award-winning golf *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Miami]]|url=|lat=25.775278|long=-80.208889|wikidata=Q8652}} – The center of Caribbean and Latin American culture, famed for its beachfront nightclubs *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Orlando]]|url=|lat=28.415833|long=-81.298889|wikidata=Q49233}} – The theme park capital of the world also features exciting dining, a lively arts scene, and ample recreation *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pensacola]]|url=|lat=30.433333|long=-87.2|wikidata=Q486306}} – White-sand beaches draw tourists to this town of ancient shipwrecks and military fighter jets *{{marker|type=city|name=[[St. Augustine]]|url=|lat=29.894722|long=-81.314444|wikidata=Q487988}} – The oldest city in the country is home to two more-than 400-year-old Spanish forts, restaurants, and shops *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tampa]]|url=|lat=27.968056|long=-82.476389|wikidata=Q49255}} – Large Gulf Coast metro area home to bustling nightlife as well as famed natural sites *{{marker|type=city|name=[[West Palm Beach]]|url=|lat=26.709722|long=-80.064167|wikidata=Q163749}} – Ritzy town home to the rich & famous, featuring high-end shopping and beautiful beaches ==Other destinations== [[File:Eudocimus albus (foraging).jpg|thumb|American white ibis at the Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area in [[Everglades National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Amelia Island]]|url=|lat=30.615556|long=-81.453889|wikidata=Q461578}} – Historic island at the north end of the state, with excellent golf resorts and a lively downtown *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Biscayne National Park]]|url=|lat=25.469444|long=-80.186111|wikidata=Q866080}} – A massive marine park protecting a wide range of animals and coral reefs *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Canaveral National Seashore]]|url=|lat=28.7675|long=-80.776944|wikidata=Q5031230}} – The longest stretch of unspoiled beach on the Atlantic coast, near rocket launches *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Everglades National Park]]|url=|lat=25.3125|long=-80.6875|wikidata=Q274131}} – Massive, vital, and delicate ecosystem protecting a great variety of plants and animals *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Florida Keys]]|url=|lat=24.666944|long=-81.544167|wikidata=Q537749}} – Chain of islands stretching into the Caribbean, offering tropical scenery and a laid-back lifestyle *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gulf Islands National Seashore]]|url=|lat=30.364444|long=-86.9675|wikidata=Q3120743}} – 12 islands along the Gulf Coast, featuring excellent beaches and sea turtles *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ocala National Forest]]|url=|lat=29.173611|long=-81.821667|wikidata=Q2013302}} – Extensive inland forest giving visitors a taste of old Florida charm *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Walt Disney World]]|url=|lat=28.385233|long=-81.563874|wikidata=Q206859}} – The "happiest place on earth", encompassing 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, and countless other amenities There are also articles on aspects of the state's history: [[Spanish Florida]] and [[Seminole Wars]]. ==Understand== While Florida is considered to be part of the [[South (United States of America)|South]], it originated not as a British colony, but as a Spanish one. As a result, the state has a unique history. Although Florida was a founding member of the Confederate States of America, and like other Southern states shared the experience of slavery and racial segregation during its history, today, Florida is a '''very diverse''' state, and contains a number of regions with slight cultural differences of their own that contribute to the state's diversity. Therefore, no one accent dominates in the speech of its residents, and it's often said that Florida is the only state that gets more "Southern" the farther ''north'' you go, and that is indeed true in a cultural sense. For a long time, Florida had been a swing state in presidential elections, almost evenly divided between Republicans and Democrats. However, a large influx of retirees in the 21st century has swung the political balance in favor of the Republicans as of the 2020s. ===History=== {{see also|Spanish Florida|British Florida}} Florida was inhabited by [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native Americans]] for over 13,000 years before the arrival of European explorers, colonists and slavers. It is estimated that there were some 350,000 inhabitants, of many tribes, when the Spanish explorer '''Juan Ponce de León''' arrived in 1513 in search of, according to legend, the Fountain of Youth. The first European settlement dates back to the 1560s with [[St. Augustine]], established in 1565, holding the distinction of being the oldest permanent European settlement in what is now the United States. However, this early settlement did not lead to the same level of rapid colonization that took place in the British colonies to the north, as the climate made large-scale settlement, especially inland, difficult for Europeans who were used to milder climates. Attempted settlements by Europeans, such as the [[New Smyrna Beach]] colony owned by a British man who employed former inhabitants of the Balearic Islands, were not always successful as challenges of climate and disease took their toll on the residents, who themselves ultimately moved to [[St. Augustine]]. From this time onward the state would not see large-scale economic and population expansion until Florida's statehood in the 19th century, when agriculture &mdash; including notably orange trees &mdash; and later tourism would achieve important roles in the state's economy. Along with the climate challenges, battles and competing claims for the region posed a challenge to the region's settlers. However, many Africans and African-Americans moved to Florida during the territory's early years because King Charles of Spain had issued a royal proclamation freeing all slaves who fled to [[Spanish Florida]], if they converted to Catholicism. {{Infobox|Shooting for the Stars|A source of pride and joy in Florida is its outsize role in the history of [[space exploration]]. Cape Canaveral began to be used for missile launches in 1949, and following President John F. Kennedy's vow to put American astronauts on the Moon before the end of the 1960s, early space flights took place there on converted missiles. The most important launches by NASA, including the Apollo 11 moon launch watched around the world in 1969, have taken place at the John F. Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral. Unfortunately, however, to make way for the creation of the space center, many residents of the Cape Canaveral region, including some African-Americans, were required by the government to leave Cape Canaveral, and little remains of the settlements that once existed in the Cape Canaveral region.}} Native Americans, including members of the Calusa tribe, fought effectively to defend their tribal lands from European colonization of the region; therefore it was some time before Europeans established colonies. However, once Europeans took control of the Florida region, oppression and killing of '''Native Americans''' &mdash; often as a result of war or disease &mdash; was tragic as it was in many other regions of the Americas. Following substantial depopulation of the state's native tribes, the Seminole tribe moved in and established themselves in Florida in the 18th century, though several conflicts between the Spanish, attempting to maintain Florida, and Americans attempting to annex the region, made an already disputed territory's political situation complex for Native Americans and settlers. Native Americans living in Florida fought hard and continued to guard their independence after Spanish Florida was ceded to the United States in 1821. The new territory of the U.S. was a slave plantation economy, much like the rest of the South at the time; the Seminoles gladly welcomed runaway slaves and accepted them into their tribe. However, after the [[Seminole Wars|Second Seminole War]], almost the entire tribe was deported west of the Mississippi River as part of the [[Trail of Tears]]. Florida was admitted to the Union as a slave state in 1845, but seceded and joined the '''Confederacy''' with the rest of the South in 1861. Largely untouched by the [[American Civil War]], the state enforced Jim Crow segregation laws against its then very large (approximately 44%) black population for a century after the Confederates' defeat. By the early 20th century, Florida had more lynchings per capita than any other state. However, there were three '''20th-century migrations''' that fundamentally changed the character of Florida, to the extent that many people no longer consider much of the state to be culturally Southern: the move of one-fifth of the state's African-American population to the Northern United States as part of the Great Migration during the first decades of the 20th century; the arrival of an increasing number of white retirees from the North after the spread of air conditioning in the 1950s; and the arrival of several waves of Cuban immigrants after the victory of Fidel Castro in 1959, who established themselves primarily in South Florida, particularly [[Miami-Dade County|Dade County]]. Florida has also seen major influxes of Latino immigrants from Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Central and South America, and Mexico, and there have also been many Haitian immigrants. ===Culture=== [[File:The Call-Collins House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida (7157983334).jpg|thumb|The Call-Collins Plantation House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida ]] Florida is geographically the southernmost of the contiguous United States, and it is a '''unique blend''' of societies. The [[Florida Panhandle]], much of [[North Florida]], rural areas of [[Central Florida]], and the [[Florida Heartland]] remain part of the cultural region of [[South (United States of America)|the South]], where you will find traditional southern cooking, entertainment, dialect, and lifestyles, much as you would expect in states like [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] or [[Alabama]]. Generally, the further south you go in the state, the more unlike the South it seems, and although Southern culture can be found in every region of the state, it is not always prevalent. Cities such as [[Tampa]] and [[Orlando]] offer the feel of the South, alongside many other cultures. There are a lot of Southerners in these areas, but also many people who are from other areas like the [[Midwest]] or the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. [[Miami]], on the other hand, is unique in that it feels like a cross between an American metropolis and a major Latin American city (like [[Rio de Janeiro|Rio]] or [[São Paulo]]). There are some Seminole Native American reservations and villages throughout southern Florida, namely in the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]], and their indigenous culture can be experienced by visiting a shop and browsing arts and crafts. The southernmost [[Florida Keys]] offer yet another flavor, full of the casual, slow-paced atmosphere of beach life. In short, Florida is a full-fledged region of the [[United States]] in its own right.[[File:Miami Beach FL Arch Dist Collins Ave down south01.jpg|thumb|267x267px|A view south on Collins Avenue in the [[Miami Beach/South Beach|Miami Beach Architectural District]]]] Much of the southern part of Florida is inhabited by people of Hispanic or Latino origin. The region that is substantially to in places majority Hispanic or Latino extends north to Orlando. There are large Cuban and Puerto Rican populations in [[Miami]] and the south side of [[Greater Orlando]], respectively. The white population is higher to the north, and by the northern border with Georgia and Alabama, the Hispanic/Latino population is very low. The Black or African-American population is primarily on the mainland and throughout the state, with historically Black communities and history in the [[Daytona Beach]] metro area, [[Jacksonville]], and Gadsden County in the Panhandle. The ethnic diversity of Florida, while not particularly cosmopolitan outside of certain urban centers, has contributed substantially to the culture, with Spanish spoken in some areas, but in the north, a tendency toward American cuisine and English language exists with few alternatives and much of the population of this region are known by outsiders as "rednecks." There are smaller communities of ethnic minorities including those of Anglo- or Franco-Caribbean or Middle Eastern origin, but these have a smaller impact on the state's culture than the largest ethnic groups. Due to a combination of factors, despite the state's high urbanization relative to many other Southern states, it does not lean as "liberal" as many comparably urban and ethnically diverse states in the North. The state is considered to be on the tipping point between left and right, but despite the prominently right-wing government that scraped through the 2018 elections, the state as a whole is middle of the road for the U.S. Orlando, state capital [[Tallahassee]], [[Fort Lauderdale]] and college town [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] lean left while most of Miami, [[Tampa]]-[[St Petersburg]], southwest Florida, parts of the east coast and rural inland and Panhandle lean conservative when compared with demographically similar communities in other parts of the country. However, almost all regions of the state are politically diverse. ===Landscape=== Florida's '''coastline is world class''', with several gorgeous beaches, bays, and estuaries. The Floridian landscape is extremely flat, however, with lakes and wetlands scattered throughout most of the state, though a mixture of ecosystems distract from the lack of topography. The only exceptions are parts of Highlands, Polk, Lake, and a few other counties in the center of the state where rolling hills are common. The highest point in the state is the {{ft|345}} Britton Hill on the Panhandle, and the {{ft|298}} Iron Mountain in Polk County is the highest point on the Peninsula. Florida's cities tend to be big, sprawling, and well-developed, but not as close to each other as an atlas might imply. Despite being a densely-populated state, there are fortunately still several expanses of wilderness left, although these are often near or between populated urban areas. Some rural parts of the state grow citrus and sugar cane, but farmland tends to be in regions outside the usual tourist areas. The [[Florida Panhandle]] and most of [[North Florida]] consist of farmland and pine trees, but as you travel south, you'll see more wetlands and urbanization, culminating at the Everglades in the far south of the state near Miami. The [[Florida Keys]] are a small chain of tropical islands with their own unique geography. ===Climate=== [[Image:Frances 2004-09-05 1815Z.jpg|thumb|293x293px|right|Hurricane Frances makes landfall on the morning of September 5, 2004 near Stuart. Its impact, however, was felt throughout Central Florida and most of Florida's east coast.]] Florida is known around the world for warm and sunny weather and this has led to the state being a major tourist destination. Florida has the mildest winters on the US mainland, and retirees and temporary residents known as "snowbirds", flock to the state in the cold season. Coastal areas experience gentle breezes during the summer, and the beach is usually the coolest place to be. While those coastal breezes are a welcome relief from the scorching temperatures, they are also the cause of a well-known Florida weather feature: '''thunderstorms'''. While the storms are often brief, they are common, and anyone visiting Florida during the rainy season (mid-June to September) should plan a few indoor activities in the afternoons as a backup. Florida's thunderstorms occur every day during the rainy season and typically form 20-30mi (32-48km) inland and either move toward the center of the state or toward the coast. Due to this, rain can be occurring just a few miles inland from the coast, while those at the beach experience a beautiful day. While the storms cool the air, bringing a welcome though often short relief to stifling temperatures, many produce considerable amounts of '''dangerous lightning''' and some bring hail, high winds of 50 mph (80 km/h) or more, and tornadoes. See the "stay safe" section for thunderstorm safety. Many tourist areas, such as [[Walt Disney World]], have multiple attractions available even during downpours. The spring is the driest time of the year, leading to wildfires nearly every May and early June. The six-month '''[[Hurricane safety|hurricane]] season''' runs from June 1 through November 30 and Floridians have learned to be ready when a storm threatens the area. If you plan on visiting during the months of June through November and especially during the peak of the hurricane season from August through October, stay aware of the news and weather advisories. Information is available from the [http://www.nhc.noaa.gov National Hurricane Center]. Cyclones are unlikely but possible in the month of May. From June through October is the hot and wet season in Florida. High temperatures are often in the 80s to 90s F (30-32 C) and lows in the 70s (24 C). Heat indices typically range between {{F|75}} and {{F|97}}, but on some of the hottest days, the heat indices can climb to {{F|107}} and not go below {{F|80}} at night. The Bermuda High pumps in hot and unstable tropical air from the Bahamas and Gulf of Mexico, which help create the daily thundershowers that are typical in summer months in Florida. Intense but very brief downpours are common in summer in much of Florida. Normally, the wet season starts to fade by early November in northern Florida and reaches southern Florida by late November. From December through April the weather in much is Florida is mild and often dry. The dry season (or winter) is often the driest and most sunny season in Florida, Average high temperatures range from the low 60's in northern Florida to the mid 70's F in far southern Florida. Overnight lows fall to the middle 40's in northern Florida to near 60 F in far southern Florida. A few times each winter, a strong cold front may drop temperatures to near freezing across northern Florida, though in many years there is no freeze at all from central Florida southward. In the driest months, Florida often has long periods of rain-less weather, and by April drought conditions with brush fires and water restrictions are sometimes in place. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitflorida.com/ Visit Florida] website ==Talk== '''English''' is the official language of the state. However, [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]] is the native language of approximately 20% of Florida residents, and the further south you go, the more Spanish speakers there will be. In some parts of [[South Florida]], Spanish is the preferred language in everyday activities. [[Miami]] is most notable, where nearly 80% of residents do not speak English as their native language and 30% do not speak any English at all. [[Tampa]] also has a sizable Spanish-speaking population, and neighborhoods where it is almost exclusively spoken. Like anywhere where there is a large presence of another language, expect Spanish words or expressions used or calqued into everyday English. Gullah, a distinctive English-based creole, is spoken by some African-American communities along the northeastern coast, near the border with Georgia. Native-born non-Hispanic Floridians from the northern part of the state will usually speak with a Southern accent. However, after the migration of millions of Americans from all over the country to the central and southern parts of the state, the Southern dialect is becoming diluted with other accents. Residents of Miami often speak in a distinctive accent with strong influences from Cuban Spanish. ==Get in== [[Image:Orlando International Airport hotel rooms.jpg|227x227px|thumb|A full-service Marriott hotel is directly within Orlando International Airport]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Air travel in the United States}} *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Orlando International Airport]]|wikidata=Q929859}} ({{IATA|MCO}}) - your choice airport for [[Disney World]] and the other attractions in [[Central Florida]]. Located south of downtown [[Orlando]], this airport offers tons of car rentals and free shuttles to Disney and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]] for visitors. Being centrally located it serves as a hub or focus city for Jetblue, Frontier, and Southwest Airlines. There are international connections from South America, Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, Europe and the Middle East. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Miami International Airport]]|wikidata=Q127530}} ({{IATA|MIA}}) - the biggest airport for travel in [[South Florida]], it's the best option for trips to the [[Everglades]] or [[Miami|Miami's]] beaches. The airport is a hub for American Airlines and the most popular entry point with a wide variety of flights from Europe, South America, Central America, the Caribbean, Cuba and Mexico. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Tampa#By plane|Tampa International Airport]]|wikidata=Q571536}} ({{IATA|TPA}}) - serves the Gulf Coast, namely the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area. There are direct flights offered from all over the U.S. and from a number of international destinations in Canada, Cuba, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Fort Lauderdale#By plane|Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport]]|wikidata=Q635361}} ({{IATA|FLL}}) - the fourth-largest airport in Florida, and another valid option to consider with many domestic low-fare carriers such as Allegiant, JetBlue, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Jacksonville#By plane|Jacksonville International Airport]]|wikidata=Q1431579}} ({{IATA|JAX}}) - primary airport for travel in [[North Florida]], serving [[Amelia Island]] and historic [[St. Augustine]]. Other large airports can be found in [[Pensacola]], [[Fort Myers]], [[Tallahassee]], [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]]/[[Clearwater]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Sarasota]], [[Key West]], [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], [[Melbourne (Florida)|Melbourne]], and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]]. There are many more airports throughout Florida that may get you closer to your destination; watch for these smaller airports while researching your destination. ===By car=== [[File:Brickell skyline 2012.jpg|thumb|The skyline of [[Miami/Brickell|Brickell, Miami]]|240x240px]] Three [[Driving in the United States|Interstate highways]] connect Florida with adjacent states: * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|Interstate 10 (I-10)]]''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and passes through the center of the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]] and across [[North Florida]] until its terminus in Jacksonville. Interstate 10 is most convenient for travelers from [[Louisiana]], [[Texas]], and areas farther west. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' also enters Florida from Georgia and passes through the center of the state until the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area, after which it follows the Gulf of Mexico coast (10-20 mi/16-32 km inland) to [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], where it heads due east across the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]] to Fort Lauderdale. Interstate 75 is most convenient for travelers arriving from [[Atlanta]] and the [[Midwest]]. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] just north of [[Jacksonville]] and parallels the Atlantic coast, never more than 25 miles inland, until its terminus south of downtown [[Miami]]. Interstate 95 provides the most convenient route for people from the East Coast, [[New England]], eastern parts of [[Canada]]. Jacksonville, [[Daytona Beach]], and the Miami-[[Fort Lauderdale]]-[[West Palm Beach]] area are all serviced by I-95, with access to [[Orlando]] provided via Interstate 4. * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''I-4''' does not cross any state line but is still called an interstate. It crosses the state from Gulf to East coast, passing from Tampa in the west through Orlando and ending at the western boundary of Daytona Beach. It curves to the north on its easternmost segment. The road, particularly on the north side of Orlando, is notoriously dangerous, and the frequent thunderstorms in addition to ongoing road work don't help with this concern. The speeds on this road are high and speed limits are ignored by most, but as a quick route there are few comparable alternatives and it does a good job of connecting the suburbs. Additional major highways entering Florida include: * [[File:US 1.svg|link=US Route 1#Florida|22px]] '''[[US Route 1|US-1]]''' enters Florida north of Jacksonville and snakes along the east coast between Interstate 95 and the Intracoastal Waterway/Atlantic Ocean. Unlike I-95, US 1 continues past Miami and is routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US-27''' enters Florida from western Georgia and provides access to the state capital, [[Tallahassee]], before routing through mostly rural areas of the peninsula. Down the center of the state between Florida's Turnpike and Miami, US 27 is a primary trucking route, and as such this route can be a hassle while dealing with heavy traffic. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US-98''' enters Florida near Pensacola and remains close to the Gulf of Mexico coast until the Panhandle meets the Florida peninsula at the "Big Bend" area. Unlike I-10 to the north, which runs through the interior of the Panhandle away from the coast, US 98 provides a scenic drive and convenient access to the beaches. After leaving the Panhandle, US 98 runs diagonally down the peninsula to West Palm Beach through primarily rural areas. * [[File:US 231.svg|22px]] '''US-231''' enters Florida from Alabama and crosses the Panhandle north-south to its southern terminus at [[Panama City Beach]]. US 231 provides convenient access to the Panhandle from the Midwest via it connection with Interstate 65 in [[Montgomery]]. * [[File:US 301.svg|22px]] '''I-301''' enters Florida just north of Jacksonville and was once the main route from the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. It is a very scenic alternative to I-95 with a lot less traffic. Exiting I-95 at Santee, [[South Carolina]] motorists can follow US 301 through Georgia and into Florida and connect to I-95 again in Jacksonville for Atlantic coast destinations, or continue on to join I-75 at [[Ocala]] for Tampa and the Gulf coast. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to Florida from neighboring states and from the major airports in the states. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''[[Florida#By_bus_2|By bus]]'' under ''Get around'' for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By train=== [[Rail travel in the United States|Amtrak]] has two services to Florida: *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/auto-train.html Amtrak Auto Train]''' ''(Trains #52 & 53)'' carries passengers and automobiles between [[Lorton]], [[Virginia]] and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford, Florida]] (north of [[Orlando]]), effectively serving as a car-rail link to Florida from the [[Washington, D.C.]] metro area. This train makes no stops between Lorton & Sanford and is a way to cut back on the extra mileage and wear and tear on the car. *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/silver-service-palmetto-train.html Amtrak Silver Service]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92 and #97 & 98 respectively)'' are two routes that both begin in [[New York City]] and end in [[Miami]]. The trains follow the same route heading to Florida, except in [[North Carolina|North]] and [[South Carolina]]. Within the state, the trains run the same line from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Kissimmee]]. There, they split again, and the Silver Star (Trains #91 & 92) diverges to head west towards [[Lakeland]] and [[Tampa]] while the Silver Meteor (Trains #97 & 98) continues south towards [[Winter Haven]]. Both routes meet again further south and serve the rest of the stations along Florida's east coast to Miami. ===By boat=== Florida is possibly the largest state for [[Cruise ships|cruise ship]] vacations in the United States. [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Tampa]], [[Miami]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] are all popular starting ports, with cruises heading throughout the [[Caribbean]]. There are also many short-term casino cruises that depart from [[Pinellas County]] and around [[South Florida]]. [http://www.ferryexpress.com/ Ferry service]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is also available to and from the [[Bahamas]], with service between [[Fort Lauderdale]] and [[Freeport (Bahamas)|Freeport]], and between Miami and [[Bimini]]. ==Get around== [[File:Overseas Highway bridge.jpg|thumb|The Overseas Highway to Key West.]] ===By car=== Traveling by car is the most common and most convenient way to get around the state for travelers and locals alike. For the traveler car rental agencies are abound in Florida and many are available at every major airport. [[Orlando]], in particular, is known as the "Car Rental Capital of the World". With Florida being the most visited state in the US, car rental rates here are among (if not) the lowest rates in the country due to sheer volume. '' '''Florida's major highways include:''' '' * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 4 (I-4)''' crosses diagonally from [[Tampa]], heads east through [[Plant City]] and [[Lakeland]], then continues northeast past [[Kissimmee]], [[Walt Disney World]], and [[Orlando]], before ending at Interstate 95 near [[Daytona Beach]]. Interstate 4 is the most travelled highway in Florida and due to the large volume of traffic, high speeds (70 mph,112 km/h outside of urban areas), construction, and large number of tourists it is also the most dangerous highway in the state, in terms of the number of accidents. * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] & [[File:US 90.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|I-10]]''' and '''US-90''' enter Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and travels across the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]], past [[Tallahassee]] and [[Lake City]], and through rural [[North Florida]] to its terminus at I-95 in Jacksonville. US Hwy 90 straddles I-10 through the northern Florida Panhandle, going through the cities and towns as a local surface street/highway while I-10 goes straight through bypassing the cities and towns. US Hwy 90 continues past the I-95 corridor in downtown Jacksonsville and ends at FL A1A at Jacksonville Beach. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' enters Florida from Georgia and runs south through the center of the peninsula past [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] and [[Ocala]] before crossing just east of Tampa, where it then parallels the Gulf coast past [[Bradenton]], [[Sarasota]], [[Fort Myers]], and [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], after which it travels due east across the [[Everglades]] (a section known as 'Alligator Alley') to the Miami suburbs. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]], north of [[Jacksonville]], and travels down the Atlantic coast past [[St. Augustine]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Vero Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] before ending at US 1 just south of downtown [[Miami]]. * [[File:Florida's_Turnpike_shield.svg|link=https://www.floridasturnpike.com|22px]] The '''[https://floridasturnpike.com/ Florida Turnpike]''' is a toll road that runs from I-75 south of Ocala, through Orlando, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale before ending south of Miami. It provides the easiest access to Orlando and southeast Florida for persons entering the state via I-75 or I-10. * [[File:I-275.svg|22px]] '''I-275''' is a secondary Interstate that runs from I-75 north of the Tampa area, past downtown Tampa and [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], where it crosses the 5.5-mile-long (8.8km), 193 foot-tall (58.8m) Sunshine Skyway Bridge before it rejoins I-75 south of Bradenton. Interstate 75 ''does not'' provide access to these areas, it instead passes through rural and suburban areas 10 miles east of Tampa. * [[File:US 1.svg|22px]] '''[[US Route 1#Florida|US-1]]''' is a historic and scenic highway that travels down the Atlantic coast between I-95 and the ocean before being routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:Florida A1A.svg|22px]] '''FL-A1A''' runs parallel to US Hwy 1 as the coastal highway along the east coast. It serves the beach communities as a local street (such as Collins Ave in Miami Beach or Ocean Dr in Ft Lauderdale) in the offshore islands/keys along the entire east coast. It is fragmented and does not run continuously from South Beach to Fernadina Beach. It runs concurrent on US Hwy 1 in places where it is not a separate road. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US 27''' is a well-traveled alternative to Florida's Turnpike and runs from Miami, along Lake Okeechobee and through the mostly-rural [[Florida Heartland|Heartland]] of Florida before continuing through Ocala, Gainesville, and Tallahassee. * [[File:US 41.svg|22px]] '''US 41''' runs west from Miami on a scenic 2-lane journey through the Everglades, and then travels along the Gulf Coast, around the east side of Tampa Bay, and north into Georgia. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US 98''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] at Pensacola and travels a very scenic route along the Gulf Coast of the Panhandle, after which it continues diagonally across the peninsula to its terminus in West Palm Beach. ===By plane=== Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state especially between South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) and the Panhandle (Pensacola and Tallahassee) while others will be relatively short (Ft Lauderdale to Orlando). '''[http://www.atlanticairlines.com/ Atlantic Airlines]''', '''[https://www.allegiantair.com Allegiant]''' (Key west to St Petersburg & Sanford); '''[https://www.flybreeze.com Breeze]''', '''[http://www.aa.com American Airlines/American Eagle]''', '''[https://www.flyfrontier.com Frontier]''', '''[https://www.JetBlue.com JetBlue]''', and '''[https://www.southwest.com/ Southwest]''' offer intrastate flights between cities in Florida. ===By bus=== The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There is fairly frequent service from Orlando (as a 'de-facto' hub) to Naples (via Tampa Bay, Ft Myers); South Florida (W Palm Peach, Ft Lauderdale, Miami); Jacksonville (via Daytona Beach, Ft Pierce); and the Panhandle (via Gainesville, Ocala, Tallahassee) with multiple companies. Others offer connections to the Keys through Miami-Dade and north towards Jacksonville along I-95 without going through Orlando. Check schedules. Many of the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns are not listed, check the article of your destination and the schedules of the company for all the transportation options. Information on transit (local public transportation) can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]: * {{go | name=Greyhound Lines / Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-231-2222 | hours= | price= | content=Connects South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) to Tampa, Naples and Jacksonville through Orlando with onward connections to Atlanta, Savannah, Houston and other cities north from Orlando. They also operate a less frequent service from Miami to Tampa via Belle Glade, Clewiston and Ft Myers. They also go south to Key West via the Florida Keys from Miami and north towards Jacksonville from Miami along I-95. Check schedules. }} * {{go | name=Jet Set Express | alt= | url=https://www.miamiorlando.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407 649-4994 | tollfree= | hours=Venue at stop open 24/7 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-29 | content=Thrice Daily departures to Ft Pierce, Kissimmee, Orlando from the Miami. Check schedules for a listing of other stops which are serviced once or twice daily. }} * {{go | name=Keys Shuttle | alt= | url=http://www.keysshuttle.com/ | email= | address=| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-289-9997 | tollfree=+1-888-765-9997 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-12 | content=The company provides door-to-door service to the Keys from the Miami and Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airports (and vice versa). }} * {{go | name=La Cubana Express | alt= | url=https://lacubanaxpress.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-541-1700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-27 | content=Connects Miami to New York City through Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Washington, DC; Elkton, Maryland; Philadelphia and New Jersey on a single route. In Florida they serve Miami, Ft Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Deltona and Jacksonville. }} * {{go | name=Our Bus | alt=Operated by different bus companies on contract to Our Bus | url=https://ourbus.com/ | email= | address=Terminal B of the Port of Miami Cruise Terminal | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 844 800-6828 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Fares range from $10 to $22 or more | content=Operates service between the Miami Cruise Terminals, Ft Lauderdale Airport, Tampa, Sarasota and Ft Myers. }} * {{go | name=Redcoach | alt= | url=https://www.redcoachusa.com/florida/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407-851-2843 | tollfree=+1-877-733-0724 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-22 | content=Service from Tallahassee to Miami via Ocala, Gainesville and Ft Lauderdale. One branch go through Orlando through Ft Pierce, W Palm Beach and Pompano Beach. Another go through Tampa, Ft Myers and Naples. }} There are a number of local and regional public transportation agencies that offer intercity bus services throughout the state. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]. ===By train=== *[[File:Brightline Train At Ft Lauderdale Station.jpg|thumb|251x251px|A Brightline train at the station in Fort Lauderdale.]]'''[https://www.amtrak.com/silver-service-palmetto-train Amtrak Silver Star]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92)'' and '''Silver Meteor''' ''(Trains #97 & 98)'' - This is a relatively expensive option but will suffice if other means are not possible. Both routes span from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Miami]]. While the two routes are slightly different, they both stop at the following stations: [[Jacksonville]], [[Palatka]], [[DeLand]], [[Winter Park (Florida)|Winter Park]], [[Orlando]], [[Kissimmee]], [[Winter Haven]], [[Sebring]], [[Okeechobee]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Delray Beach]], [[Deerfield Beach]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], [[Hollywood (Florida)|Hollywood]], and [[Miami]]. The slight difference between the two routes is that the Silver Star detours to [[Lakeland]] (to/from the north only) and [[Tampa]] (to/from the south only) while the Silver Meteor proceeds directly to Winter Haven from Kissimmee. * {{listing | name=Sun Rail | alt= | url=http://www.sunrail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 724-5411 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 5AM-11:30PM | price=$2-5 one way | wikipedia=SunRail | wikidata=Q3503715 | lastedit=2019-01-06 | content=Sun Rail is a north-south train on weekdays through [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]], Orlando, and Kissimmee, from Poinciana at its southern end, and DeBary at its northern end. Bus connection is provided from Orlando International Airport to the Sand Lake Road station by Linx routes 11, 42 and 111; and from Orlando-Sanford International Airport to the Sanford station by Linx route 46E. }} * {{listing | name=Tri-Rail | alt= | url=http://www.tri-rail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 954 783-6030 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 4AM-11:35PM (different weekends) | price=$2.50-11.55 for one-day pass |wikipedia=|wikidata=|image=| lastedit=2019-02-24 | content=The regional rail for South Florida with a single 18-station route from its north end at Mangonia Park, through Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach to its south end Miami Airport. It runs the same route as the Amtrak Silver Service from Miami to West Palm Beach with the same shared stops at West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood. This train is connected to Miami International Airport by the MIA Mover shuttle train, to the Fort Lauderdale Airport by a shuttle bus, and to the West Palm Beach Airport by Palm Transit bus route 42 or 44 and the Tri-Rail Shuttle Bus. }} * {{listing | name=Brightline | alt= | url=http://gobrightline.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Several departures daily | price=$20-350 roundtrip | lastedit=2024-03-30 | content=A private railroad running passenger trains since early 2018, initially between Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, with service to Miami added in the summer of 2018. An extension to Orlando International Airport from West Palm Beach was opened in 2023. Plans are underway to continue the route from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World, and eventually to Tampa. Brightline trains operate on separate tracks and stations than Amtrak and local commuter trains (which are shared with each other). }} ===By ferry=== A high speed ferry service, the '''[http://www.seakeywestexpress.com Key West Express],''' operates from the cities of [[Fort Myers]] and [[Marco Island]] with daily service to the Historic Seaport district of [[Key West]]. The ferry ride takes approximately 3½ hours and the Fort Myers vessels have a capacity exceeding 300 passengers. Amenities include outdoor sundecks, flat-screen TVs, galley service and a full bar. ==See== [[Image:Gatorland.JPG|thumb|right|Gatorland in Orlando.|206x206px]]The {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/ Kennedy Space Center]|wikidata=Q6389687|lat=|long=}} in [[Cape Canaveral]] was America's spaceport for the manned missions to the Moon and the Space Shuttle. The Visitor Complex contains spacecraft displays, two IMAX movies, the Astronaut's Hall of Fame, exhibits chronicling the history and future of space exploration, and a Space Shuttle Launch Experience.[[Image:FL-PonceInletLighthouse.jpg|thumb|The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse in [[Ponce Inlet]].|221x221px]]Florida has a long and complex history and is worth visiting for those interested in [[historical travel]]. {{marker|type=see|name=[[St. Augustine]]|wikidata=Q487988}}, founded by the Spanish in 1565, is the United States' oldest permanent European settlement. It contains a large colonial fort, multiple attractions and site detailing its history, countless restaurants and bars, and plenty of shops in its small, walkable downtown. '''[[Florida Lighthouses|Florida's Lighthouses]]''' are numerous, historic, and beautiful; take some time to visit these iconic images of the coast. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.flholocaustmuseum.org/ The Florida Holocaust Museum]|wikidata=Q884852|lat=|long=}} in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], this is one of the largest Holocaust museums in the U.S. and exhibits a box car used by Nazis to transport prisoners to extermination camps like [[Auschwitz]]. {{Marker|type=see|name=[http://www.salvadordalimuseum.org/ Salvador Dalí Museum]|wikidata=Q674427|lat=|long=}}, also in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|St. Petersburg]], is the largest collection of Dalí artwork outside of Europe. [[Sports]] are popular in the state of Florida, and particularly well-known is {{marker|type=see|name=Daytona International Speedway|wikidata=Q1179250}} near FL-92 and I-95 in [[Daytona Beach]]. The famous speedway venue is home of the number one event in stock car racing, NASCAR's Daytona 500 (February), along with other events throughout the year. '''[[Baseball in the United States#Spring Training|Spring Training baseball]]''' occurs throughout the state in late February and March, and offers the ability to watch your favorite players for discount prices (front row tickets can be purchased as low as $15-20) and in smaller, more intimate venues. {{marker|type=see|name=Sunshine Skyway Bridge|wikidata=Q2302271}} is the longest cable-stayed bridge in the world and an engineering masterpiece crossing the mouth of Tampa Bay. Two long fishing piers beside the bridge, the approaches of the previous bridge, are renowned among local fishermen and provide a less expensive alternative for saltwater fishing. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.ybor.org/ Ybor City]|wikidata=Q3572050|lat=|long=}} (pronounced ee-bor) is one of the largest party districts in the country, with countless bars, restaurants, clubs, and cigar stores, located near downtown [[Tampa]], easily accessible by car or with the free and historic streetcar service. Ybor City has a very historic and authentic feel, with a combination of Latin and Italian influence. Not just a nightlife district, however, with many cultural sights and restaurants open during the day. ===Wildlife=== {{see also|Marine life|Natural springs in Florida}} [[File:Alligator on the St Johns River.jpg|thumb|One of Florida's famous [[Dangerous animals#Alligators and crocodiles|alligators]]]] Alligators, crocodiles, manatees, bears, armadillos, dolphins, spoonbills...Florida's diverse array of habitats are home to a variety of wild animals. Alligators and their relatives can be seen in captivity at the Alligator Farm in [[Saint Augustine]], and the {{marker|type=see|name=Saint John's River|wikidata=Q1677915}}, which was expanded to better accommodate riverboats, is also an excellent place to see wildlife. An abundance of marinas and boat tours that exist in the cities north of Orlando have access to this river. It's lined with trees of various species, along with a variety of bird life. To see wild alligators, try [[Everglades National Park]] or [[Myakka River State Park]], and you can see manatees at [[Blue Spring State Park]] or [[Hernando County#Do|Weeki Wachee Springs]]. {{marker|type=see|name=Gatorland|wikidata=Q689585}} in [[Orlando]] is full of Florida's most unique animal and is one of the oldest tourist attractions in the state. Unfortunately, with all the exotic wildlife come a host of insects, especially during the May-October period. These are often encountered outdoors, especially in forested areas, during the summer and are attracted by that season's hot, humid weather, so if you visit between May and early fall, expect to encounter mosquitoes or even "lovebugs". Lovebugs, which are typically seen for just a few weeks during spring and fall, are completely harmless except for the mess they make on moving cars, and are so named because they are seen in pairs. Even more developed areas, if near forests, can attract mosquitoes. Along with the fauna is flora in its abundance (and variety) due to the warm and wet climate. === Itineraries === * '''[[U.S. Highway 1|US-1]]''' and '''[[Interstate 10]]''' go through the state. * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' crosses a portion of Lake Ashby in Volusia County, Florida, before entering the rainforest. == Do == [[File:Spaceship Earth at night.jpg|thumb|The world-famous Spaceship Earth at Walt Disney World's [[Walt Disney World/Epcot|Epcot]] theme park.]] {{quote|If you can't find something to do in Florida, you're just boring|author=Guy Fieri|source=[https://web.archive.org/web/20170214011958/http://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do/food/dining/interview-guy-fieri-talks-new-projects-criticism-and-the-triple-d-effect/2312870 as quoted in the ''Tampa Bay Times'']}} * '''Go to the beach!''' You have numerous options here: [[Panama City Beach]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[New Smyrna Beach]], [[St. Pete Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]] and [[Siesta Key]] are some of the best. * Visit Florida's world class '''theme parks and water parks'''. **'''[[Walt Disney World]]''' - The most visited resort in the world, home to four theme parks, two water parks, and shopping, dining, and hotels galore. **[[Universal Orlando|'''Universal Orlando''']] - Disney World's biggest competitor, these three theme parks are home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. **'''SeaWorld''' in [[Orlando]] and '''Legoland''' in nearby [[Winter Haven]]. **'''Busch Gardens''' in [[Tampa]]. *Visit '''[[Everglades National Park]]''', a place like no other on Earth, and take an airboat ride through the swamps. A drive across the Everglades on US 41 is a great way to get a sense of the park's size and scenery. Check out [[Everglades City]] for great attractions. *Explore some of the more than 150 '''[http://www.floridastateparks.org/ Florida State Parks]'''. The only three-time winner of the National Recreation and Park Association's Gold Medal for state park systems. Get a Florida State Parks Annual Pass for free admission to most of the state parks, or discounted admission at [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Skyway Fishing Pier State Park]], [[Homosassa Springs|Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park]] and [[Hernando County|Weeki Wachee Springs State Park]]. *Visit the '''[http://www.seminoletribe.com/ Seminole]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} or [http://miccosukeetribe.com/ Miccosukee]{{Dead link|date=March 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native American]] reservations''' throughout the state. Here you can find out about their history and culture, try their food, and gamble in the casinos on their land, which include several Hard Rock Casinos. *'''Go [[scuba diving]] or snorkeling''' through the many coral reefs, sunken vessels, and diverse array of sea life off of Florida's coasts. The most colorful fish can be seen in the tropical waters of [[Miami]] and further south. *'''Go hiking or [[wilderness backpacking|backpacking]]''' in the many state and national parks and forests that have nature trails suitable for hiking and camping. A particularly good option is the Florida National Scenic Trail, a network of 1400 miles (2253 km) of hiking trails throughout the state. The most popular section of the trail is the 110-mile (177-km) loop encircling Lake Okeechobee. *'''Go fishing''', with some of the best fishing action in the world (both salt and freshwater). Several large and tough fighting species such as Sailfish, Tarpon, and Largemouth Bass can be found lurking in water throughout the state. *'''Take a [[Cruise ships|Cruise]]''' from the Port of [[Miami]], [[Tampa]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], or [[Cape Canaveral]] on longer cruises run by the likes of Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line or [[Disney Cruise Line]]. There are also short nightly casino cruises in various places. *'''View a rocket launch''', which are visible from virtually anywhere in the Peninsula when skies are clear. But the best viewing is up-close from [[Cape Canaveral|Cape Canaveral's]] Kennedy Space Center, [[Cocoa Beach]], [[Canaveral National Seashore]], or [[Titusville (Florida)|Titusville]]. *Check out the '''Florida State Fair''', held every February near Tampa. It hosts an exposition of counties, where each Florida county has a display and a representative to answer questions. In addition, the fair has animal displays and shows, an exhibition dedicated to citrus, various dance & cheerleading competitions, and a large selection of rides and games. ==Buy== Florida is increasingly becoming a '''major destination for shopping'''. The [[Orlando]] and [[Miami]] areas are home to a plethora of shopping malls, including many outlet malls home to shops selling brand-name products for discounted prices. There are also a large number of stores selling souvenirs, although most are not locally produced. The [[Kissimmee]] area near Orlando, especially, has a much larger number of retail stores than is typical of U.S. cities. While traditionally these shops catered largely to American families on vacation, most now serve foreign shoppers who flock to these malls to buy products significantly cheaper than at home. It's not uncommon at some shopping malls in Orlando to encounter tourists from around the globe, especially on weekdays when most Americans are working. In the last few years, [[Brazil]] has become the largest source of international visitors to the state, with many coming on shopping group tours and sometimes wearing matching shirts. Due to this, major shopping centers in the Orlando and Miami areas now offer services in [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]]. Most goods for sale in the state are subject to sales tax. In most of the state the rate is 7%, but it varies from 6-7.5% (6% state sales tax and up to 1.5% local sales tax). This rate is almost never listed on the advertised or displayed prices. ==Eat== [[File:Florida orange grove.JPG|thumb|A typical Florida orange grove near [[Sebring]].]] Florida's cuisine is a mix of many influences and its styles vary across the state from North to South. [[North Florida]] has a more Southern style; [[South Florida]] a more Caribbean one. There specifically, early Spanish and African cuisines have been given a new spin with the impact of Cuban and other Caribbean cultures, as well as from "snowbirds" escaping the Northern U.S. winters. Being on a peninsula, Florida's chefs have always had access to fresh seafood, and the long growing season provides fresh native vegetables almost year round. *'''Citrus''' is a main export, and a tourist is apt to see many roadside stands offering free samples of orange juice and fruits to be shipped or carried home. Florida also grows grapefruit, avocado, mango, papaya, passion fruit, kumquat, coconut and other tropical fruits. These often provide the base for sauces and marinades and are also used in marmalades, soups, and desserts. Official state welcome centers located on I-10, I-75, and I-95 as you enter Florida offer free samples of orange juice to all visitors, a tradition that goes back decades. *'''Strawberries''' are another popular fruit in Florida. [[Plant City]], off I-4 east of [[Tampa]], is the center of the Florida strawberry industry, where during the peak season (Feb-Mar) many roadside vendors offer flats (16 pints/12 lb/5.4 kg) and half-flats of strawberries for a small fraction of grocery store prices. Since most stands are owned by the individual farmers, the fruit sold was often harvested that morning or the day before. Fresh Florida strawberries are a treat no tourist should miss, at least if you visit in-season. *'''Grouper''' is a very popular seafood caught in Florida's coastal waters. Fresh grouper is offered in many coastal cities, where local restaurants buy it straight from fishermen, and it is often served fried or grilled on a sandwich. State inspectors have cracked down to ensure that all restaurants offering "grouper" are in fact serving grouper, and not another less expensive white fish. Snapper, snook, tarpon, marlin, and shark are other Florida fish that you can find at coastal restaurants, although they are not nearly as ubiquitous as grouper. *'''Southern food''' is available throughout most of [[North Florida|North]] and [[Central Florida]]. Barbeque is popular throughout the state, with many small "barbeque shacks" to choose from. Any platter costing over $10 ($15 for ribs) should be avoided as the less expensive restaurants are almost always best. Sweet tea is also common throughout the state, although unlike most areas in the [[South (United States of America)|South]], you have a choice between sweet and unsweet tea. Boiled peanuts, which taste nothing like a regular peanut, can be found at roadside vendors and are certainly worth trying. Dishes such as fried chicken, grits, okra, biscuits & gravy, and collard greens can also be found in restaurants and buffets throughout the state. *'''Cuban food''' is common in the [[Miami]] and [[Tampa]] areas, with the most common dishes being the Cuban sandwich, flan, and black beans & rice. *'''Local specialties''', not readily available in many other locales, include '''alligator'''. It is healthy and most say it tastes like chicken, and it is often prepared like chicken nuggets. '''Key lime pie''', found elsewhere now, is a [[Florida Keys]] invention, made from the local key limes. Florida bans indoor smoking in restaurants, but it is allowed outdoors unless the establishment prohibits it.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Drink== [[File:MIAMI-ArtDeco-rj002.jpg|thumb|The art deco hotels and clubs of Miami's [[Miami Beach/South Beach|South Beach]].]] '''Alcoholic beverages''' abound throughout the state. However, five rural counties in the northern third of the state are "dry counties", and no alcohol is sold in them. Stand-alone liquor stores are often built into strip malls, supermarkets, and pharmacies, and most grocery stores, gas stations, and convenience stores sell beer and wine. '''Bars and clubs''' are popular throughout the state, with [[Miami Beach]] being well-known for a variety of themed and upscale bars with innovative mixed drinks. Unique bars and clubs can also be found in downtown [[Orlando]] and the nearby tourist areas closer to the theme parks and resorts of [[Walt Disney World|Disney]] and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]]. No visit to Florida is complete without a cup of their famous '''orange juice'''. Like every other U.S. state, the purchase and possession age for alcohol is 21 and it's fairly well enforced. Underage drinking "stings" are frequent in most tourist areas. Florida allows smoking in bars, including those that serve food, but the bar must get less than 10% of their revenue from food.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Sleep== == Respect == If you're using a boat or other vehicle, like a jetski, in the water, it may be necessary to significantly reduce speed in areas inhabited by manatees and/or dolphins. Fast-moving vehicles can cause harm to a manatee's respiratory system. Misuse of recreation areas has caused record manatee deaths in 2021. ==Connect== [[File:Siesta Key Beach TV-001-0002.jpg|thumb|The gentle white sands of Siesta Key]] ===Internet=== Essentially all '''hotels''' offer Wi-Fi internet access for guests, and almost always for free; some even have Ethernet ports for higher-speed wired connections. Many '''businesses''' also have free Wi-Fi. This even includes some clothing/department, grocery, and convenience stores in addition to the more typical restaurants and shopping malls. All the main airports have free Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi internet access is also available at '''public libraries'''. It's almost always free for everyone with their own device (laptop, smartphone, tablet). Computers set up for internet access by patrons require a username and password to access; nearly all libraries will issue a "guest pass" for non-cardholders, though there is occasionally a nominal fee. Use of library computers is subject to time limits which vary widely. The large majority of "internet cafes" in the state are actually nominally illegal casinos, set up for online gambling in an attempt to circumvent gambling laws. Such internet cafes do not have typical computers for general use. Instead, they are usually enclosed in a slot machine-style cover with only a few buttons to press, and set up to only view gambling websites. Patrons pay for short periods of time, sometimes using odd methods like buying prepaid phone cards. After a high-profile crackdown on an operator of dozens of such internet cafes, the state banned the opening of all new internet cafes in 2013. ==Stay safe== Dialing '''911''' at any telephone will reach the emergency services (police, fire, ambulance, etc.). Any phone connected to a U.S. network, regardless of whether or not it has a paid account, must be able to dial 911 if it is connected to the network, and such calls are always free. ===Crime=== Florida has varying crime intensity from city to city. In certain areas of the large cities it may not be safe to walk alone or even in small groups at night, although these are the exceptions and most of Florida is safe for visitors. Tourist areas rarely have violent crimes, but theft is an occasional occurrence. If the area doesn't feel safe, then it probably isn't. '''Clip joint''' operators who trick visitors into paying large amounts of money for low-quality services may use local police to shake down voyagers under a Florida law that requires bar and restaurant patrons pay a disputed bill first and take it up later with their credit card company. Avoid getting involved in '''road rage''' incidents while driving in Florida as firearms frequently get involved. If someone cuts you off on the highway (a frequent occurence) just let it go.<!-- http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/04/07/17-charged-south-beach-alcohol-scam.html --> ===Weather=== {{infobox|Extreme Temperatures|''Never leave children or pets in a parked car for any length of time!'' Due to the high temperatures most of the year, the interior of a parked car can easily heat to a '''lethal''' temperature very quickly. During the summer, the interior of a parked car can reach {{convert|130|to|170|F}} in just 15 minutes, regardless of the color of the exterior or interior, nor whether the windows are open a small amount. You not only risk their lives, but '''it is illegal''' and the consequences could be thousands in fines and even imprisonment. Vehicles left containing animals or children ''will'' be broken into by police or bystanders.}} Florida has a high occurrence of '''hurricanes''', though they don't hit the state every year. You might want to check the [[Cyclones|hurricane safety]] page if you are visiting Florida during the Hurricane Season, which runs June 1 to November 30. Few places in the world experience more frequent '''lightning strikes''' than Florida. The summer thunderstorms in Florida produce frequent lightning, which kills people each year and injures many more. Stay indoors during a thunderstorm and ''never'' seek shelter under a tree. Most casualties occur on golf courses, but lightning strikes everywhere. If you must go outdoors during a storm, try to stay away from any tall object, especially trees or anything made of metal. Occasionally, thunderstorms will bring '''hail, high winds, and [[Tornado safety|tornadoes]]'''. While the historical number of tornadoes in Florida is somewhat high, the overwhelming majority have occurred during hurricanes (Hurricane Jeanne alone spawned over 200 tornadoes in Florida). While some do occur during winter cold fronts and summer thunderstorms, 99% of them are weak (F-0/F-1). Thus, while statistics may suggest otherwise, tornadoes are not a big hazard in Florida. Watch where and when you swim. While the beaches are great they sometimes harbor '''rip currents, bacteria, and jellyfish'''. Always check with the lifeguard stand or ranger station before heading in if no one is in the water or if the waves are rough. '''Red tide''' is the name for harmful algal blooms that can occur on Florida's Gulf coast. They cause fish kills and water discoloration, and release toxins into the air that cause respiratory irritation. People with severe or chronic respiratory conditions, such as emphysema or asthma, should avoid areas where red tide is occurring. Swimming in water afflicted by red tide can cause skin and eye irritation and is not recommended. Heavy rain can make the roads dangerous. Although many highway drainage systems in Florida are well-designed by necessity, it can be almost impossible to see through your windshield during the worst rainstorms. Light and torrential rain can be a hundred feet apart, so when you hit heavy rain, it's common for vehicular traffic to slow to speeds as low as 20 mph if necessary, even on major interstates. However, there are a few drivers who ignore the protocol and drive fast anyway. Even though it's common, it's illegal to drive with hazard lights on in the rain. Use them only if you are completely stopped. ===Wildlife=== {{main|Dangerous animals}} '''Alligators''' are a threat throughout Florida (even in inland areas like [[Orlando]] and the [[Walt Disney World]]<!-- http://www.cnn.com/2016/06/15/us/alligator-attacks-child-disney-florida/index.html -->), and it should be assumed that they are present in ''all'' stagnant or slow moving freshwater. ''Never'' swim in any lakes or rivers unless signs tell you swimming is safe, and beware when approaching the water anywhere. Do not allow children or pets to approach the water's edge. '''Bears''' and '''Florida panthers''', common before the arrival of Europeans in Florida, are now both endangered in the state. If you do see either, back off slowly or keep your distance, and make yourself appear larger by waving your arms above your head. When hiking, make lots of noise to avoid startling an animal, and always keep small children close to you. Both species are endangered and protected under Florida law, and harassing or injuring one (even in a vehicle accident) will result in prosecution. [[Volusia County]] is known for a high number of '''shark attacks''', but they can occur anywhere in the state, so be careful when surfing. Even so, the number of attacks are less than 50, with a fatal attack every 2-3 years, amongst ''millions'' of visitors and residents who swim in the ocean. Swimming near dusk and dawn is the most hazardous. '''Lionfish''' are a poisonous and invasive fish that are now present on reefs throughout Florida. They can be identified by their red-and white striped bodies and poisonous spines. Stings are extremely painful and often require hospitalization. Due to their status as an invasive species, any sighting of lionfish should be reported to wildlife management authorities immediately. '''Jellyfish''' are also sometimes common at the beaches, and '''venomous snakes''' can be found year round across the state, so it is good to be wary of both. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== A large number of countries have consulates in and around [[Miami#Consulates|Miami]], with a much smaller number in [[Jacksonville#Consulates|Jacksonville]], [[Orlando#Consulates|Orlando]] and [[Tampa#Consulates|Tampa]]. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are available only in [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]. ==See also== * '''[[British Florida]]''' Although Florida was under Spanish control for most of its history prior to U.S. control, there was a brief period of 20 years during which it was a British colony. During British rule in the region, it was divided into two colonies: East Florida governed from St. Augustine, and West Florida governed from Pensacola. * '''[[Spanish Florida]]''' Prior to its annexation by the United States, Florida was a colony of Spain. From the founding of St. Augustine in 1565 to the collapse of their empire in the 1820s, the Spanish built forts, missions, and attempted to settle the subtropical, humid peninsula despite competition from other European powers. * '''[[Seminole Wars]]''', not as well known as the other wars in which the United States participated in the 19th century, were a significant development of the Indian Removal Wars. Conflicts between British, American, Spanish, and Seminole participants date back to the 18th century, but the most coordinated fighting took place between the Napoleonic Wars and the American Civil War. * '''[[Summer in Florida]]''' is a popular time to visit, for example for its theme parks, because it's when most North Americans have vacations. However, the climate during this period can make travel more complicated, unless your travels are carefully managed * '''[[East Central Regional Rail Trail]]''' * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' ==Go next== * '''[[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]''' - Heading out of Florida to the north is Georgia, with the historic city of [[Savannah]] and the resort beaches of [[Jekyll Island]] close by. * '''[[Alabama]]''' - North of the Panhandle is Alabama, with the historic port of [[Mobile]] and popular resort town [[Gulf Shores]] a short drive away from this region of Florida. * '''[[Caribbean]]''' - The islands of the Caribbean are accessible by boat and plane from across Florida and offer a variety of both relaxing and adventure travel amidst a tropical paradise. For those interested in visiting the '''[[Bahamas]]''' (as the nearest country), many owners of small boats will make the day-long trip to the island chain, and several small airlines offer flights for under $70 each way. Other popular destinations in the Caribbean that are further from Florida by boat are '''[[Dominican Republic]], [[Puerto Rico]]''', and the '''[[Virgin Islands]]'''. * '''[[Colombia]]''' and '''[[Venezuela]]''' are the nearest countries in '''[[South America]]''' that are 3-4 hours away by plane, on a direct flight from [[South Florida]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]]. * '''[[Cancun]]''' and '''[[Merida (Mexico)|Merida]]''' on the [[Yucatán_and_the_South|Yucatán Peninsula]] are the nearest cities in MExico from [[Miami International Airport|Miami]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]] that are a 2 hr 15 min away by plane. To go further into Mexico, [[Benito Juárez International Airport| Mexico City]] is 3 hr 40 min away from Miami or Orlando. * '''[[Central America]]''' is 2-3 hours on a plane from Miami, Ft Lauderdale and Orlando. <br />{{usableregion}} {{geo|28.1|-82.0|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|United_States}} {{related|Tornado_safety}} 001u8spkrt5mx8efb4eh4nz8p9hncei 5288898 5288897 2026-06-06T16:29:32Z Anyone150 1516949 /* Go next */ 5288898 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lummus_Park_Florida_banner.jpg}} {{otheruses}}'''Florida''' is the southernmost state in the continental [[United States of America]]. Known as "The Sunshine State", over a century ago it became a popular winter destination for the well-to-do from colder climates; it has grown to become the second-most visited state in the nation. Tourists have long been drawn to Florida by its white-sand beaches and unique and diverse cities. Since the mid-twentieth century, world-class theme parks and attractions have become a top draw as well. In the 21st century, Florida has become the preferred retirement destination for rich Americans from all over the country. The state's roots in agriculture are still relevant, with oranges being a chief export. Untouched natural landscapes teeming with wildlife exist in vast areas, sometimes very close to cities, and there are miles of rivers and trails for the intrepid visitor. Some of Florida's best secrets are charming small towns and other places in secluded locations, away from the crowded tourist areas but certainly worth seeing. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Florida Static Map.png | regionmaptext=Regions of Florida | regionmapsize=410px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[First Coast]] | region1color=#c68d98ff | region1items= | region1description=The end of the St. Johns River is the location of [[Jacksonville]], one of the largest cities in the state, and some coastal towns including America's oldest city, [[St. Augustine]]. | region2name=[[Volusia County]] | region2color=#a9a567ff | region2items= | region2description=A beach county, also known as the "Fun Coast," frequented by snowbirds, [[Inland Florida]] residents, and fans of the Daytona 500. | region3name=[[Space Coast]] | region3color=#c39dc3ff | region3items= | region3description=The [[Kennedy Space Center]], [[Cape Canaveral]], and some coastal towns to the south are within this region, which is synonymous with Brevard County. | region4name=[[Treasure Coast]] | region4color=#ffd0d0ff | region4items= | region4description=Between Miami and the rest of the Atlantic coast, there are some medium-sized cities here, but it is still more off the beaten path than the counties to the south. | region5name=[[Greater Miami]] | region5color=#4da9c4ff | region5items=[[Palm Beach County]], [[Broward County]], [[Miami-Dade County]] | region5description=Miami and its surroundings (called the "Gold Coast") are known for their ethnic diversity, proximity to Latin America, and tourist appeal along the many miles of beautiful beaches. | region6name=[[Florida Keys]] | region6color=#d5dc76ff | region6items= | region6description=A chain of islands off the southern tip of the peninsula, and one of the state's main tourist destinations with its breathtaking tropical beauty. | region7name=[[Florida West Coast]] | region7color=#80bb89ff | region7items=[[Big Bend Coast]], [[Tampa Bay Area]], [[Southwest Florida]] | region7description=Particularly in the north, more rural than its eastern counterpart, the western coast is known for its Tampa-St. Petersburg metro area and many beautiful beaches in the southwest of the state, with the [[Everglades]] separating the region from Miami. | region8name=[[Florida Panhandle]] | region8color=#d56d76ff | region8items=[[Emerald Coast]], [[Forgotten Coast]], [[Middle Florida]], [[West Florida]] | region8description=The Florida panhandle is a "Deep South" region of antebellum plantations, red hills, and white sand beaches. Cities include the state capital of Tallahassee, Destin, Pensacola, and Panama City Beach. | region9name=[[Inland Florida]] | region9color=#d8a55eff | region9items=[[North Central Florida]], [[Greater Orlando]], [[Lake County (Florida)|Lake County]], [[Polk County (Florida)|Polk County]], [[Florida Heartland]] | region9description=A few cities dot this mostly rural region, including the college town of [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], the theme parks of [[Orlando]], and small towns throughout the rest. }} ==Cities== Below is a selection of some of Florida's most notable cities. Other cities can be found under their specific regions. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tallahassee]]|url=|lat=30.455|long=-84.253333|wikidata=Q37043}} – The state capital and thriving college town home to three schools, including Florida State<!-- capital top, alphabetize the rest --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Fort Lauderdale]]|url=|lat=26.133333|long=-80.15|wikidata=Q165972}} – The "Venice of America" with its expansive canal system, also known for beaches and boating *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Jacksonville]]|url=|lat=30.336944|long=-81.661389|wikidata=Q16568}} – Sprawling city encompassing large beaches, world-class museums, and award-winning golf *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Miami]]|url=|lat=25.775278|long=-80.208889|wikidata=Q8652}} – The center of Caribbean and Latin American culture, famed for its beachfront nightclubs *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Orlando]]|url=|lat=28.415833|long=-81.298889|wikidata=Q49233}} – The theme park capital of the world also features exciting dining, a lively arts scene, and ample recreation *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pensacola]]|url=|lat=30.433333|long=-87.2|wikidata=Q486306}} – White-sand beaches draw tourists to this town of ancient shipwrecks and military fighter jets *{{marker|type=city|name=[[St. Augustine]]|url=|lat=29.894722|long=-81.314444|wikidata=Q487988}} – The oldest city in the country is home to two more-than 400-year-old Spanish forts, restaurants, and shops *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tampa]]|url=|lat=27.968056|long=-82.476389|wikidata=Q49255}} – Large Gulf Coast metro area home to bustling nightlife as well as famed natural sites *{{marker|type=city|name=[[West Palm Beach]]|url=|lat=26.709722|long=-80.064167|wikidata=Q163749}} – Ritzy town home to the rich & famous, featuring high-end shopping and beautiful beaches ==Other destinations== [[File:Eudocimus albus (foraging).jpg|thumb|American white ibis at the Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area in [[Everglades National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Amelia Island]]|url=|lat=30.615556|long=-81.453889|wikidata=Q461578}} – Historic island at the north end of the state, with excellent golf resorts and a lively downtown *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Biscayne National Park]]|url=|lat=25.469444|long=-80.186111|wikidata=Q866080}} – A massive marine park protecting a wide range of animals and coral reefs *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Canaveral National Seashore]]|url=|lat=28.7675|long=-80.776944|wikidata=Q5031230}} – The longest stretch of unspoiled beach on the Atlantic coast, near rocket launches *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Everglades National Park]]|url=|lat=25.3125|long=-80.6875|wikidata=Q274131}} – Massive, vital, and delicate ecosystem protecting a great variety of plants and animals *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Florida Keys]]|url=|lat=24.666944|long=-81.544167|wikidata=Q537749}} – Chain of islands stretching into the Caribbean, offering tropical scenery and a laid-back lifestyle *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gulf Islands National Seashore]]|url=|lat=30.364444|long=-86.9675|wikidata=Q3120743}} – 12 islands along the Gulf Coast, featuring excellent beaches and sea turtles *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ocala National Forest]]|url=|lat=29.173611|long=-81.821667|wikidata=Q2013302}} – Extensive inland forest giving visitors a taste of old Florida charm *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Walt Disney World]]|url=|lat=28.385233|long=-81.563874|wikidata=Q206859}} – The "happiest place on earth", encompassing 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, and countless other amenities There are also articles on aspects of the state's history: [[Spanish Florida]] and [[Seminole Wars]]. ==Understand== While Florida is considered to be part of the [[South (United States of America)|South]], it originated not as a British colony, but as a Spanish one. As a result, the state has a unique history. Although Florida was a founding member of the Confederate States of America, and like other Southern states shared the experience of slavery and racial segregation during its history, today, Florida is a '''very diverse''' state, and contains a number of regions with slight cultural differences of their own that contribute to the state's diversity. Therefore, no one accent dominates in the speech of its residents, and it's often said that Florida is the only state that gets more "Southern" the farther ''north'' you go, and that is indeed true in a cultural sense. For a long time, Florida had been a swing state in presidential elections, almost evenly divided between Republicans and Democrats. However, a large influx of retirees in the 21st century has swung the political balance in favor of the Republicans as of the 2020s. ===History=== {{see also|Spanish Florida|British Florida}} Florida was inhabited by [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native Americans]] for over 13,000 years before the arrival of European explorers, colonists and slavers. It is estimated that there were some 350,000 inhabitants, of many tribes, when the Spanish explorer '''Juan Ponce de León''' arrived in 1513 in search of, according to legend, the Fountain of Youth. The first European settlement dates back to the 1560s with [[St. Augustine]], established in 1565, holding the distinction of being the oldest permanent European settlement in what is now the United States. However, this early settlement did not lead to the same level of rapid colonization that took place in the British colonies to the north, as the climate made large-scale settlement, especially inland, difficult for Europeans who were used to milder climates. Attempted settlements by Europeans, such as the [[New Smyrna Beach]] colony owned by a British man who employed former inhabitants of the Balearic Islands, were not always successful as challenges of climate and disease took their toll on the residents, who themselves ultimately moved to [[St. Augustine]]. From this time onward the state would not see large-scale economic and population expansion until Florida's statehood in the 19th century, when agriculture &mdash; including notably orange trees &mdash; and later tourism would achieve important roles in the state's economy. Along with the climate challenges, battles and competing claims for the region posed a challenge to the region's settlers. However, many Africans and African-Americans moved to Florida during the territory's early years because King Charles of Spain had issued a royal proclamation freeing all slaves who fled to [[Spanish Florida]], if they converted to Catholicism. {{Infobox|Shooting for the Stars|A source of pride and joy in Florida is its outsize role in the history of [[space exploration]]. Cape Canaveral began to be used for missile launches in 1949, and following President John F. Kennedy's vow to put American astronauts on the Moon before the end of the 1960s, early space flights took place there on converted missiles. The most important launches by NASA, including the Apollo 11 moon launch watched around the world in 1969, have taken place at the John F. Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral. Unfortunately, however, to make way for the creation of the space center, many residents of the Cape Canaveral region, including some African-Americans, were required by the government to leave Cape Canaveral, and little remains of the settlements that once existed in the Cape Canaveral region.}} Native Americans, including members of the Calusa tribe, fought effectively to defend their tribal lands from European colonization of the region; therefore it was some time before Europeans established colonies. However, once Europeans took control of the Florida region, oppression and killing of '''Native Americans''' &mdash; often as a result of war or disease &mdash; was tragic as it was in many other regions of the Americas. Following substantial depopulation of the state's native tribes, the Seminole tribe moved in and established themselves in Florida in the 18th century, though several conflicts between the Spanish, attempting to maintain Florida, and Americans attempting to annex the region, made an already disputed territory's political situation complex for Native Americans and settlers. Native Americans living in Florida fought hard and continued to guard their independence after Spanish Florida was ceded to the United States in 1821. The new territory of the U.S. was a slave plantation economy, much like the rest of the South at the time; the Seminoles gladly welcomed runaway slaves and accepted them into their tribe. However, after the [[Seminole Wars|Second Seminole War]], almost the entire tribe was deported west of the Mississippi River as part of the [[Trail of Tears]]. Florida was admitted to the Union as a slave state in 1845, but seceded and joined the '''Confederacy''' with the rest of the South in 1861. Largely untouched by the [[American Civil War]], the state enforced Jim Crow segregation laws against its then very large (approximately 44%) black population for a century after the Confederates' defeat. By the early 20th century, Florida had more lynchings per capita than any other state. However, there were three '''20th-century migrations''' that fundamentally changed the character of Florida, to the extent that many people no longer consider much of the state to be culturally Southern: the move of one-fifth of the state's African-American population to the Northern United States as part of the Great Migration during the first decades of the 20th century; the arrival of an increasing number of white retirees from the North after the spread of air conditioning in the 1950s; and the arrival of several waves of Cuban immigrants after the victory of Fidel Castro in 1959, who established themselves primarily in South Florida, particularly [[Miami-Dade County|Dade County]]. Florida has also seen major influxes of Latino immigrants from Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Central and South America, and Mexico, and there have also been many Haitian immigrants. ===Culture=== [[File:The Call-Collins House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida (7157983334).jpg|thumb|The Call-Collins Plantation House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida ]] Florida is geographically the southernmost of the contiguous United States, and it is a '''unique blend''' of societies. The [[Florida Panhandle]], much of [[North Florida]], rural areas of [[Central Florida]], and the [[Florida Heartland]] remain part of the cultural region of [[South (United States of America)|the South]], where you will find traditional southern cooking, entertainment, dialect, and lifestyles, much as you would expect in states like [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] or [[Alabama]]. Generally, the further south you go in the state, the more unlike the South it seems, and although Southern culture can be found in every region of the state, it is not always prevalent. Cities such as [[Tampa]] and [[Orlando]] offer the feel of the South, alongside many other cultures. There are a lot of Southerners in these areas, but also many people who are from other areas like the [[Midwest]] or the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. [[Miami]], on the other hand, is unique in that it feels like a cross between an American metropolis and a major Latin American city (like [[Rio de Janeiro|Rio]] or [[São Paulo]]). There are some Seminole Native American reservations and villages throughout southern Florida, namely in the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]], and their indigenous culture can be experienced by visiting a shop and browsing arts and crafts. The southernmost [[Florida Keys]] offer yet another flavor, full of the casual, slow-paced atmosphere of beach life. In short, Florida is a full-fledged region of the [[United States]] in its own right.[[File:Miami Beach FL Arch Dist Collins Ave down south01.jpg|thumb|267x267px|A view south on Collins Avenue in the [[Miami Beach/South Beach|Miami Beach Architectural District]]]] Much of the southern part of Florida is inhabited by people of Hispanic or Latino origin. The region that is substantially to in places majority Hispanic or Latino extends north to Orlando. There are large Cuban and Puerto Rican populations in [[Miami]] and the south side of [[Greater Orlando]], respectively. The white population is higher to the north, and by the northern border with Georgia and Alabama, the Hispanic/Latino population is very low. The Black or African-American population is primarily on the mainland and throughout the state, with historically Black communities and history in the [[Daytona Beach]] metro area, [[Jacksonville]], and Gadsden County in the Panhandle. The ethnic diversity of Florida, while not particularly cosmopolitan outside of certain urban centers, has contributed substantially to the culture, with Spanish spoken in some areas, but in the north, a tendency toward American cuisine and English language exists with few alternatives and much of the population of this region are known by outsiders as "rednecks." There are smaller communities of ethnic minorities including those of Anglo- or Franco-Caribbean or Middle Eastern origin, but these have a smaller impact on the state's culture than the largest ethnic groups. Due to a combination of factors, despite the state's high urbanization relative to many other Southern states, it does not lean as "liberal" as many comparably urban and ethnically diverse states in the North. The state is considered to be on the tipping point between left and right, but despite the prominently right-wing government that scraped through the 2018 elections, the state as a whole is middle of the road for the U.S. Orlando, state capital [[Tallahassee]], [[Fort Lauderdale]] and college town [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] lean left while most of Miami, [[Tampa]]-[[St Petersburg]], southwest Florida, parts of the east coast and rural inland and Panhandle lean conservative when compared with demographically similar communities in other parts of the country. However, almost all regions of the state are politically diverse. ===Landscape=== Florida's '''coastline is world class''', with several gorgeous beaches, bays, and estuaries. The Floridian landscape is extremely flat, however, with lakes and wetlands scattered throughout most of the state, though a mixture of ecosystems distract from the lack of topography. The only exceptions are parts of Highlands, Polk, Lake, and a few other counties in the center of the state where rolling hills are common. The highest point in the state is the {{ft|345}} Britton Hill on the Panhandle, and the {{ft|298}} Iron Mountain in Polk County is the highest point on the Peninsula. Florida's cities tend to be big, sprawling, and well-developed, but not as close to each other as an atlas might imply. Despite being a densely-populated state, there are fortunately still several expanses of wilderness left, although these are often near or between populated urban areas. Some rural parts of the state grow citrus and sugar cane, but farmland tends to be in regions outside the usual tourist areas. The [[Florida Panhandle]] and most of [[North Florida]] consist of farmland and pine trees, but as you travel south, you'll see more wetlands and urbanization, culminating at the Everglades in the far south of the state near Miami. The [[Florida Keys]] are a small chain of tropical islands with their own unique geography. ===Climate=== [[Image:Frances 2004-09-05 1815Z.jpg|thumb|293x293px|right|Hurricane Frances makes landfall on the morning of September 5, 2004 near Stuart. Its impact, however, was felt throughout Central Florida and most of Florida's east coast.]] Florida is known around the world for warm and sunny weather and this has led to the state being a major tourist destination. Florida has the mildest winters on the US mainland, and retirees and temporary residents known as "snowbirds", flock to the state in the cold season. Coastal areas experience gentle breezes during the summer, and the beach is usually the coolest place to be. While those coastal breezes are a welcome relief from the scorching temperatures, they are also the cause of a well-known Florida weather feature: '''thunderstorms'''. While the storms are often brief, they are common, and anyone visiting Florida during the rainy season (mid-June to September) should plan a few indoor activities in the afternoons as a backup. Florida's thunderstorms occur every day during the rainy season and typically form 20-30mi (32-48km) inland and either move toward the center of the state or toward the coast. Due to this, rain can be occurring just a few miles inland from the coast, while those at the beach experience a beautiful day. While the storms cool the air, bringing a welcome though often short relief to stifling temperatures, many produce considerable amounts of '''dangerous lightning''' and some bring hail, high winds of 50 mph (80 km/h) or more, and tornadoes. See the "stay safe" section for thunderstorm safety. Many tourist areas, such as [[Walt Disney World]], have multiple attractions available even during downpours. The spring is the driest time of the year, leading to wildfires nearly every May and early June. The six-month '''[[Hurricane safety|hurricane]] season''' runs from June 1 through November 30 and Floridians have learned to be ready when a storm threatens the area. If you plan on visiting during the months of June through November and especially during the peak of the hurricane season from August through October, stay aware of the news and weather advisories. Information is available from the [http://www.nhc.noaa.gov National Hurricane Center]. Cyclones are unlikely but possible in the month of May. From June through October is the hot and wet season in Florida. High temperatures are often in the 80s to 90s F (30-32 C) and lows in the 70s (24 C). Heat indices typically range between {{F|75}} and {{F|97}}, but on some of the hottest days, the heat indices can climb to {{F|107}} and not go below {{F|80}} at night. The Bermuda High pumps in hot and unstable tropical air from the Bahamas and Gulf of Mexico, which help create the daily thundershowers that are typical in summer months in Florida. Intense but very brief downpours are common in summer in much of Florida. Normally, the wet season starts to fade by early November in northern Florida and reaches southern Florida by late November. From December through April the weather in much is Florida is mild and often dry. The dry season (or winter) is often the driest and most sunny season in Florida, Average high temperatures range from the low 60's in northern Florida to the mid 70's F in far southern Florida. Overnight lows fall to the middle 40's in northern Florida to near 60 F in far southern Florida. A few times each winter, a strong cold front may drop temperatures to near freezing across northern Florida, though in many years there is no freeze at all from central Florida southward. In the driest months, Florida often has long periods of rain-less weather, and by April drought conditions with brush fires and water restrictions are sometimes in place. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitflorida.com/ Visit Florida] website ==Talk== '''English''' is the official language of the state. However, [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]] is the native language of approximately 20% of Florida residents, and the further south you go, the more Spanish speakers there will be. In some parts of [[South Florida]], Spanish is the preferred language in everyday activities. [[Miami]] is most notable, where nearly 80% of residents do not speak English as their native language and 30% do not speak any English at all. [[Tampa]] also has a sizable Spanish-speaking population, and neighborhoods where it is almost exclusively spoken. Like anywhere where there is a large presence of another language, expect Spanish words or expressions used or calqued into everyday English. Gullah, a distinctive English-based creole, is spoken by some African-American communities along the northeastern coast, near the border with Georgia. Native-born non-Hispanic Floridians from the northern part of the state will usually speak with a Southern accent. However, after the migration of millions of Americans from all over the country to the central and southern parts of the state, the Southern dialect is becoming diluted with other accents. Residents of Miami often speak in a distinctive accent with strong influences from Cuban Spanish. ==Get in== [[Image:Orlando International Airport hotel rooms.jpg|227x227px|thumb|A full-service Marriott hotel is directly within Orlando International Airport]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Air travel in the United States}} *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Orlando International Airport]]|wikidata=Q929859}} ({{IATA|MCO}}) - your choice airport for [[Disney World]] and the other attractions in [[Central Florida]]. Located south of downtown [[Orlando]], this airport offers tons of car rentals and free shuttles to Disney and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]] for visitors. Being centrally located it serves as a hub or focus city for Jetblue, Frontier, and Southwest Airlines. There are international connections from South America, Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, Europe and the Middle East. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Miami International Airport]]|wikidata=Q127530}} ({{IATA|MIA}}) - the biggest airport for travel in [[South Florida]], it's the best option for trips to the [[Everglades]] or [[Miami|Miami's]] beaches. The airport is a hub for American Airlines and the most popular entry point with a wide variety of flights from Europe, South America, Central America, the Caribbean, Cuba and Mexico. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Tampa#By plane|Tampa International Airport]]|wikidata=Q571536}} ({{IATA|TPA}}) - serves the Gulf Coast, namely the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area. There are direct flights offered from all over the U.S. and from a number of international destinations in Canada, Cuba, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Fort Lauderdale#By plane|Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport]]|wikidata=Q635361}} ({{IATA|FLL}}) - the fourth-largest airport in Florida, and another valid option to consider with many domestic low-fare carriers such as Allegiant, JetBlue, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Jacksonville#By plane|Jacksonville International Airport]]|wikidata=Q1431579}} ({{IATA|JAX}}) - primary airport for travel in [[North Florida]], serving [[Amelia Island]] and historic [[St. Augustine]]. Other large airports can be found in [[Pensacola]], [[Fort Myers]], [[Tallahassee]], [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]]/[[Clearwater]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Sarasota]], [[Key West]], [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], [[Melbourne (Florida)|Melbourne]], and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]]. There are many more airports throughout Florida that may get you closer to your destination; watch for these smaller airports while researching your destination. ===By car=== [[File:Brickell skyline 2012.jpg|thumb|The skyline of [[Miami/Brickell|Brickell, Miami]]|240x240px]] Three [[Driving in the United States|Interstate highways]] connect Florida with adjacent states: * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|Interstate 10 (I-10)]]''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and passes through the center of the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]] and across [[North Florida]] until its terminus in Jacksonville. Interstate 10 is most convenient for travelers from [[Louisiana]], [[Texas]], and areas farther west. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' also enters Florida from Georgia and passes through the center of the state until the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area, after which it follows the Gulf of Mexico coast (10-20 mi/16-32 km inland) to [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], where it heads due east across the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]] to Fort Lauderdale. Interstate 75 is most convenient for travelers arriving from [[Atlanta]] and the [[Midwest]]. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] just north of [[Jacksonville]] and parallels the Atlantic coast, never more than 25 miles inland, until its terminus south of downtown [[Miami]]. Interstate 95 provides the most convenient route for people from the East Coast, [[New England]], eastern parts of [[Canada]]. Jacksonville, [[Daytona Beach]], and the Miami-[[Fort Lauderdale]]-[[West Palm Beach]] area are all serviced by I-95, with access to [[Orlando]] provided via Interstate 4. * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''I-4''' does not cross any state line but is still called an interstate. It crosses the state from Gulf to East coast, passing from Tampa in the west through Orlando and ending at the western boundary of Daytona Beach. It curves to the north on its easternmost segment. The road, particularly on the north side of Orlando, is notoriously dangerous, and the frequent thunderstorms in addition to ongoing road work don't help with this concern. The speeds on this road are high and speed limits are ignored by most, but as a quick route there are few comparable alternatives and it does a good job of connecting the suburbs. Additional major highways entering Florida include: * [[File:US 1.svg|link=US Route 1#Florida|22px]] '''[[US Route 1|US-1]]''' enters Florida north of Jacksonville and snakes along the east coast between Interstate 95 and the Intracoastal Waterway/Atlantic Ocean. Unlike I-95, US 1 continues past Miami and is routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US-27''' enters Florida from western Georgia and provides access to the state capital, [[Tallahassee]], before routing through mostly rural areas of the peninsula. Down the center of the state between Florida's Turnpike and Miami, US 27 is a primary trucking route, and as such this route can be a hassle while dealing with heavy traffic. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US-98''' enters Florida near Pensacola and remains close to the Gulf of Mexico coast until the Panhandle meets the Florida peninsula at the "Big Bend" area. Unlike I-10 to the north, which runs through the interior of the Panhandle away from the coast, US 98 provides a scenic drive and convenient access to the beaches. After leaving the Panhandle, US 98 runs diagonally down the peninsula to West Palm Beach through primarily rural areas. * [[File:US 231.svg|22px]] '''US-231''' enters Florida from Alabama and crosses the Panhandle north-south to its southern terminus at [[Panama City Beach]]. US 231 provides convenient access to the Panhandle from the Midwest via it connection with Interstate 65 in [[Montgomery]]. * [[File:US 301.svg|22px]] '''I-301''' enters Florida just north of Jacksonville and was once the main route from the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. It is a very scenic alternative to I-95 with a lot less traffic. Exiting I-95 at Santee, [[South Carolina]] motorists can follow US 301 through Georgia and into Florida and connect to I-95 again in Jacksonville for Atlantic coast destinations, or continue on to join I-75 at [[Ocala]] for Tampa and the Gulf coast. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to Florida from neighboring states and from the major airports in the states. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''[[Florida#By_bus_2|By bus]]'' under ''Get around'' for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By train=== [[Rail travel in the United States|Amtrak]] has two services to Florida: *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/auto-train.html Amtrak Auto Train]''' ''(Trains #52 & 53)'' carries passengers and automobiles between [[Lorton]], [[Virginia]] and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford, Florida]] (north of [[Orlando]]), effectively serving as a car-rail link to Florida from the [[Washington, D.C.]] metro area. This train makes no stops between Lorton & Sanford and is a way to cut back on the extra mileage and wear and tear on the car. *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/silver-service-palmetto-train.html Amtrak Silver Service]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92 and #97 & 98 respectively)'' are two routes that both begin in [[New York City]] and end in [[Miami]]. The trains follow the same route heading to Florida, except in [[North Carolina|North]] and [[South Carolina]]. Within the state, the trains run the same line from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Kissimmee]]. There, they split again, and the Silver Star (Trains #91 & 92) diverges to head west towards [[Lakeland]] and [[Tampa]] while the Silver Meteor (Trains #97 & 98) continues south towards [[Winter Haven]]. Both routes meet again further south and serve the rest of the stations along Florida's east coast to Miami. ===By boat=== Florida is possibly the largest state for [[Cruise ships|cruise ship]] vacations in the United States. [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Tampa]], [[Miami]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] are all popular starting ports, with cruises heading throughout the [[Caribbean]]. There are also many short-term casino cruises that depart from [[Pinellas County]] and around [[South Florida]]. [http://www.ferryexpress.com/ Ferry service]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is also available to and from the [[Bahamas]], with service between [[Fort Lauderdale]] and [[Freeport (Bahamas)|Freeport]], and between Miami and [[Bimini]]. ==Get around== [[File:Overseas Highway bridge.jpg|thumb|The Overseas Highway to Key West.]] ===By car=== Traveling by car is the most common and most convenient way to get around the state for travelers and locals alike. For the traveler car rental agencies are abound in Florida and many are available at every major airport. [[Orlando]], in particular, is known as the "Car Rental Capital of the World". With Florida being the most visited state in the US, car rental rates here are among (if not) the lowest rates in the country due to sheer volume. '' '''Florida's major highways include:''' '' * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 4 (I-4)''' crosses diagonally from [[Tampa]], heads east through [[Plant City]] and [[Lakeland]], then continues northeast past [[Kissimmee]], [[Walt Disney World]], and [[Orlando]], before ending at Interstate 95 near [[Daytona Beach]]. Interstate 4 is the most travelled highway in Florida and due to the large volume of traffic, high speeds (70 mph,112 km/h outside of urban areas), construction, and large number of tourists it is also the most dangerous highway in the state, in terms of the number of accidents. * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] & [[File:US 90.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|I-10]]''' and '''US-90''' enter Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and travels across the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]], past [[Tallahassee]] and [[Lake City]], and through rural [[North Florida]] to its terminus at I-95 in Jacksonville. US Hwy 90 straddles I-10 through the northern Florida Panhandle, going through the cities and towns as a local surface street/highway while I-10 goes straight through bypassing the cities and towns. US Hwy 90 continues past the I-95 corridor in downtown Jacksonsville and ends at FL A1A at Jacksonville Beach. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' enters Florida from Georgia and runs south through the center of the peninsula past [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] and [[Ocala]] before crossing just east of Tampa, where it then parallels the Gulf coast past [[Bradenton]], [[Sarasota]], [[Fort Myers]], and [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], after which it travels due east across the [[Everglades]] (a section known as 'Alligator Alley') to the Miami suburbs. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]], north of [[Jacksonville]], and travels down the Atlantic coast past [[St. Augustine]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Vero Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] before ending at US 1 just south of downtown [[Miami]]. * [[File:Florida's_Turnpike_shield.svg|link=https://www.floridasturnpike.com|22px]] The '''[https://floridasturnpike.com/ Florida Turnpike]''' is a toll road that runs from I-75 south of Ocala, through Orlando, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale before ending south of Miami. It provides the easiest access to Orlando and southeast Florida for persons entering the state via I-75 or I-10. * [[File:I-275.svg|22px]] '''I-275''' is a secondary Interstate that runs from I-75 north of the Tampa area, past downtown Tampa and [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], where it crosses the 5.5-mile-long (8.8km), 193 foot-tall (58.8m) Sunshine Skyway Bridge before it rejoins I-75 south of Bradenton. Interstate 75 ''does not'' provide access to these areas, it instead passes through rural and suburban areas 10 miles east of Tampa. * [[File:US 1.svg|22px]] '''[[US Route 1#Florida|US-1]]''' is a historic and scenic highway that travels down the Atlantic coast between I-95 and the ocean before being routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:Florida A1A.svg|22px]] '''FL-A1A''' runs parallel to US Hwy 1 as the coastal highway along the east coast. It serves the beach communities as a local street (such as Collins Ave in Miami Beach or Ocean Dr in Ft Lauderdale) in the offshore islands/keys along the entire east coast. It is fragmented and does not run continuously from South Beach to Fernadina Beach. It runs concurrent on US Hwy 1 in places where it is not a separate road. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US 27''' is a well-traveled alternative to Florida's Turnpike and runs from Miami, along Lake Okeechobee and through the mostly-rural [[Florida Heartland|Heartland]] of Florida before continuing through Ocala, Gainesville, and Tallahassee. * [[File:US 41.svg|22px]] '''US 41''' runs west from Miami on a scenic 2-lane journey through the Everglades, and then travels along the Gulf Coast, around the east side of Tampa Bay, and north into Georgia. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US 98''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] at Pensacola and travels a very scenic route along the Gulf Coast of the Panhandle, after which it continues diagonally across the peninsula to its terminus in West Palm Beach. ===By plane=== Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state especially between South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) and the Panhandle (Pensacola and Tallahassee) while others will be relatively short (Ft Lauderdale to Orlando). '''[http://www.atlanticairlines.com/ Atlantic Airlines]''', '''[https://www.allegiantair.com Allegiant]''' (Key west to St Petersburg & Sanford); '''[https://www.flybreeze.com Breeze]''', '''[http://www.aa.com American Airlines/American Eagle]''', '''[https://www.flyfrontier.com Frontier]''', '''[https://www.JetBlue.com JetBlue]''', and '''[https://www.southwest.com/ Southwest]''' offer intrastate flights between cities in Florida. ===By bus=== The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There is fairly frequent service from Orlando (as a 'de-facto' hub) to Naples (via Tampa Bay, Ft Myers); South Florida (W Palm Peach, Ft Lauderdale, Miami); Jacksonville (via Daytona Beach, Ft Pierce); and the Panhandle (via Gainesville, Ocala, Tallahassee) with multiple companies. Others offer connections to the Keys through Miami-Dade and north towards Jacksonville along I-95 without going through Orlando. Check schedules. Many of the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns are not listed, check the article of your destination and the schedules of the company for all the transportation options. Information on transit (local public transportation) can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]: * {{go | name=Greyhound Lines / Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-231-2222 | hours= | price= | content=Connects South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) to Tampa, Naples and Jacksonville through Orlando with onward connections to Atlanta, Savannah, Houston and other cities north from Orlando. They also operate a less frequent service from Miami to Tampa via Belle Glade, Clewiston and Ft Myers. They also go south to Key West via the Florida Keys from Miami and north towards Jacksonville from Miami along I-95. Check schedules. }} * {{go | name=Jet Set Express | alt= | url=https://www.miamiorlando.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407 649-4994 | tollfree= | hours=Venue at stop open 24/7 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-29 | content=Thrice Daily departures to Ft Pierce, Kissimmee, Orlando from the Miami. Check schedules for a listing of other stops which are serviced once or twice daily. }} * {{go | name=Keys Shuttle | alt= | url=http://www.keysshuttle.com/ | email= | address=| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-289-9997 | tollfree=+1-888-765-9997 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-12 | content=The company provides door-to-door service to the Keys from the Miami and Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airports (and vice versa). }} * {{go | name=La Cubana Express | alt= | url=https://lacubanaxpress.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-541-1700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-27 | content=Connects Miami to New York City through Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Washington, DC; Elkton, Maryland; Philadelphia and New Jersey on a single route. In Florida they serve Miami, Ft Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Deltona and Jacksonville. }} * {{go | name=Our Bus | alt=Operated by different bus companies on contract to Our Bus | url=https://ourbus.com/ | email= | address=Terminal B of the Port of Miami Cruise Terminal | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 844 800-6828 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Fares range from $10 to $22 or more | content=Operates service between the Miami Cruise Terminals, Ft Lauderdale Airport, Tampa, Sarasota and Ft Myers. }} * {{go | name=Redcoach | alt= | url=https://www.redcoachusa.com/florida/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407-851-2843 | tollfree=+1-877-733-0724 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-22 | content=Service from Tallahassee to Miami via Ocala, Gainesville and Ft Lauderdale. One branch go through Orlando through Ft Pierce, W Palm Beach and Pompano Beach. Another go through Tampa, Ft Myers and Naples. }} There are a number of local and regional public transportation agencies that offer intercity bus services throughout the state. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]. ===By train=== *[[File:Brightline Train At Ft Lauderdale Station.jpg|thumb|251x251px|A Brightline train at the station in Fort Lauderdale.]]'''[https://www.amtrak.com/silver-service-palmetto-train Amtrak Silver Star]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92)'' and '''Silver Meteor''' ''(Trains #97 & 98)'' - This is a relatively expensive option but will suffice if other means are not possible. Both routes span from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Miami]]. While the two routes are slightly different, they both stop at the following stations: [[Jacksonville]], [[Palatka]], [[DeLand]], [[Winter Park (Florida)|Winter Park]], [[Orlando]], [[Kissimmee]], [[Winter Haven]], [[Sebring]], [[Okeechobee]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Delray Beach]], [[Deerfield Beach]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], [[Hollywood (Florida)|Hollywood]], and [[Miami]]. The slight difference between the two routes is that the Silver Star detours to [[Lakeland]] (to/from the north only) and [[Tampa]] (to/from the south only) while the Silver Meteor proceeds directly to Winter Haven from Kissimmee. * {{listing | name=Sun Rail | alt= | url=http://www.sunrail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 724-5411 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 5AM-11:30PM | price=$2-5 one way | wikipedia=SunRail | wikidata=Q3503715 | lastedit=2019-01-06 | content=Sun Rail is a north-south train on weekdays through [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]], Orlando, and Kissimmee, from Poinciana at its southern end, and DeBary at its northern end. Bus connection is provided from Orlando International Airport to the Sand Lake Road station by Linx routes 11, 42 and 111; and from Orlando-Sanford International Airport to the Sanford station by Linx route 46E. }} * {{listing | name=Tri-Rail | alt= | url=http://www.tri-rail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 954 783-6030 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 4AM-11:35PM (different weekends) | price=$2.50-11.55 for one-day pass |wikipedia=|wikidata=|image=| lastedit=2019-02-24 | content=The regional rail for South Florida with a single 18-station route from its north end at Mangonia Park, through Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach to its south end Miami Airport. It runs the same route as the Amtrak Silver Service from Miami to West Palm Beach with the same shared stops at West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood. This train is connected to Miami International Airport by the MIA Mover shuttle train, to the Fort Lauderdale Airport by a shuttle bus, and to the West Palm Beach Airport by Palm Transit bus route 42 or 44 and the Tri-Rail Shuttle Bus. }} * {{listing | name=Brightline | alt= | url=http://gobrightline.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Several departures daily | price=$20-350 roundtrip | lastedit=2024-03-30 | content=A private railroad running passenger trains since early 2018, initially between Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, with service to Miami added in the summer of 2018. An extension to Orlando International Airport from West Palm Beach was opened in 2023. Plans are underway to continue the route from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World, and eventually to Tampa. Brightline trains operate on separate tracks and stations than Amtrak and local commuter trains (which are shared with each other). }} ===By ferry=== A high speed ferry service, the '''[http://www.seakeywestexpress.com Key West Express],''' operates from the cities of [[Fort Myers]] and [[Marco Island]] with daily service to the Historic Seaport district of [[Key West]]. The ferry ride takes approximately 3½ hours and the Fort Myers vessels have a capacity exceeding 300 passengers. Amenities include outdoor sundecks, flat-screen TVs, galley service and a full bar. ==See== [[Image:Gatorland.JPG|thumb|right|Gatorland in Orlando.|206x206px]]The {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/ Kennedy Space Center]|wikidata=Q6389687|lat=|long=}} in [[Cape Canaveral]] was America's spaceport for the manned missions to the Moon and the Space Shuttle. The Visitor Complex contains spacecraft displays, two IMAX movies, the Astronaut's Hall of Fame, exhibits chronicling the history and future of space exploration, and a Space Shuttle Launch Experience.[[Image:FL-PonceInletLighthouse.jpg|thumb|The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse in [[Ponce Inlet]].|221x221px]]Florida has a long and complex history and is worth visiting for those interested in [[historical travel]]. {{marker|type=see|name=[[St. Augustine]]|wikidata=Q487988}}, founded by the Spanish in 1565, is the United States' oldest permanent European settlement. It contains a large colonial fort, multiple attractions and site detailing its history, countless restaurants and bars, and plenty of shops in its small, walkable downtown. '''[[Florida Lighthouses|Florida's Lighthouses]]''' are numerous, historic, and beautiful; take some time to visit these iconic images of the coast. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.flholocaustmuseum.org/ The Florida Holocaust Museum]|wikidata=Q884852|lat=|long=}} in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], this is one of the largest Holocaust museums in the U.S. and exhibits a box car used by Nazis to transport prisoners to extermination camps like [[Auschwitz]]. {{Marker|type=see|name=[http://www.salvadordalimuseum.org/ Salvador Dalí Museum]|wikidata=Q674427|lat=|long=}}, also in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|St. Petersburg]], is the largest collection of Dalí artwork outside of Europe. [[Sports]] are popular in the state of Florida, and particularly well-known is {{marker|type=see|name=Daytona International Speedway|wikidata=Q1179250}} near FL-92 and I-95 in [[Daytona Beach]]. The famous speedway venue is home of the number one event in stock car racing, NASCAR's Daytona 500 (February), along with other events throughout the year. '''[[Baseball in the United States#Spring Training|Spring Training baseball]]''' occurs throughout the state in late February and March, and offers the ability to watch your favorite players for discount prices (front row tickets can be purchased as low as $15-20) and in smaller, more intimate venues. {{marker|type=see|name=Sunshine Skyway Bridge|wikidata=Q2302271}} is the longest cable-stayed bridge in the world and an engineering masterpiece crossing the mouth of Tampa Bay. Two long fishing piers beside the bridge, the approaches of the previous bridge, are renowned among local fishermen and provide a less expensive alternative for saltwater fishing. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.ybor.org/ Ybor City]|wikidata=Q3572050|lat=|long=}} (pronounced ee-bor) is one of the largest party districts in the country, with countless bars, restaurants, clubs, and cigar stores, located near downtown [[Tampa]], easily accessible by car or with the free and historic streetcar service. Ybor City has a very historic and authentic feel, with a combination of Latin and Italian influence. Not just a nightlife district, however, with many cultural sights and restaurants open during the day. ===Wildlife=== {{see also|Marine life|Natural springs in Florida}} [[File:Alligator on the St Johns River.jpg|thumb|One of Florida's famous [[Dangerous animals#Alligators and crocodiles|alligators]]]] Alligators, crocodiles, manatees, bears, armadillos, dolphins, spoonbills...Florida's diverse array of habitats are home to a variety of wild animals. Alligators and their relatives can be seen in captivity at the Alligator Farm in [[Saint Augustine]], and the {{marker|type=see|name=Saint John's River|wikidata=Q1677915}}, which was expanded to better accommodate riverboats, is also an excellent place to see wildlife. An abundance of marinas and boat tours that exist in the cities north of Orlando have access to this river. It's lined with trees of various species, along with a variety of bird life. To see wild alligators, try [[Everglades National Park]] or [[Myakka River State Park]], and you can see manatees at [[Blue Spring State Park]] or [[Hernando County#Do|Weeki Wachee Springs]]. {{marker|type=see|name=Gatorland|wikidata=Q689585}} in [[Orlando]] is full of Florida's most unique animal and is one of the oldest tourist attractions in the state. Unfortunately, with all the exotic wildlife come a host of insects, especially during the May-October period. These are often encountered outdoors, especially in forested areas, during the summer and are attracted by that season's hot, humid weather, so if you visit between May and early fall, expect to encounter mosquitoes or even "lovebugs". Lovebugs, which are typically seen for just a few weeks during spring and fall, are completely harmless except for the mess they make on moving cars, and are so named because they are seen in pairs. Even more developed areas, if near forests, can attract mosquitoes. Along with the fauna is flora in its abundance (and variety) due to the warm and wet climate. === Itineraries === * '''[[U.S. Highway 1|US-1]]''' and '''[[Interstate 10]]''' go through the state. * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' crosses a portion of Lake Ashby in Volusia County, Florida, before entering the rainforest. == Do == [[File:Spaceship Earth at night.jpg|thumb|The world-famous Spaceship Earth at Walt Disney World's [[Walt Disney World/Epcot|Epcot]] theme park.]] {{quote|If you can't find something to do in Florida, you're just boring|author=Guy Fieri|source=[https://web.archive.org/web/20170214011958/http://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do/food/dining/interview-guy-fieri-talks-new-projects-criticism-and-the-triple-d-effect/2312870 as quoted in the ''Tampa Bay Times'']}} * '''Go to the beach!''' You have numerous options here: [[Panama City Beach]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[New Smyrna Beach]], [[St. Pete Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]] and [[Siesta Key]] are some of the best. * Visit Florida's world class '''theme parks and water parks'''. **'''[[Walt Disney World]]''' - The most visited resort in the world, home to four theme parks, two water parks, and shopping, dining, and hotels galore. **[[Universal Orlando|'''Universal Orlando''']] - Disney World's biggest competitor, these three theme parks are home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. **'''SeaWorld''' in [[Orlando]] and '''Legoland''' in nearby [[Winter Haven]]. **'''Busch Gardens''' in [[Tampa]]. *Visit '''[[Everglades National Park]]''', a place like no other on Earth, and take an airboat ride through the swamps. A drive across the Everglades on US 41 is a great way to get a sense of the park's size and scenery. Check out [[Everglades City]] for great attractions. *Explore some of the more than 150 '''[http://www.floridastateparks.org/ Florida State Parks]'''. The only three-time winner of the National Recreation and Park Association's Gold Medal for state park systems. Get a Florida State Parks Annual Pass for free admission to most of the state parks, or discounted admission at [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Skyway Fishing Pier State Park]], [[Homosassa Springs|Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park]] and [[Hernando County|Weeki Wachee Springs State Park]]. *Visit the '''[http://www.seminoletribe.com/ Seminole]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} or [http://miccosukeetribe.com/ Miccosukee]{{Dead link|date=March 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native American]] reservations''' throughout the state. Here you can find out about their history and culture, try their food, and gamble in the casinos on their land, which include several Hard Rock Casinos. *'''Go [[scuba diving]] or snorkeling''' through the many coral reefs, sunken vessels, and diverse array of sea life off of Florida's coasts. The most colorful fish can be seen in the tropical waters of [[Miami]] and further south. *'''Go hiking or [[wilderness backpacking|backpacking]]''' in the many state and national parks and forests that have nature trails suitable for hiking and camping. A particularly good option is the Florida National Scenic Trail, a network of 1400 miles (2253 km) of hiking trails throughout the state. The most popular section of the trail is the 110-mile (177-km) loop encircling Lake Okeechobee. *'''Go fishing''', with some of the best fishing action in the world (both salt and freshwater). Several large and tough fighting species such as Sailfish, Tarpon, and Largemouth Bass can be found lurking in water throughout the state. *'''Take a [[Cruise ships|Cruise]]''' from the Port of [[Miami]], [[Tampa]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], or [[Cape Canaveral]] on longer cruises run by the likes of Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line or [[Disney Cruise Line]]. There are also short nightly casino cruises in various places. *'''View a rocket launch''', which are visible from virtually anywhere in the Peninsula when skies are clear. But the best viewing is up-close from [[Cape Canaveral|Cape Canaveral's]] Kennedy Space Center, [[Cocoa Beach]], [[Canaveral National Seashore]], or [[Titusville (Florida)|Titusville]]. *Check out the '''Florida State Fair''', held every February near Tampa. It hosts an exposition of counties, where each Florida county has a display and a representative to answer questions. In addition, the fair has animal displays and shows, an exhibition dedicated to citrus, various dance & cheerleading competitions, and a large selection of rides and games. ==Buy== Florida is increasingly becoming a '''major destination for shopping'''. The [[Orlando]] and [[Miami]] areas are home to a plethora of shopping malls, including many outlet malls home to shops selling brand-name products for discounted prices. There are also a large number of stores selling souvenirs, although most are not locally produced. The [[Kissimmee]] area near Orlando, especially, has a much larger number of retail stores than is typical of U.S. cities. While traditionally these shops catered largely to American families on vacation, most now serve foreign shoppers who flock to these malls to buy products significantly cheaper than at home. It's not uncommon at some shopping malls in Orlando to encounter tourists from around the globe, especially on weekdays when most Americans are working. In the last few years, [[Brazil]] has become the largest source of international visitors to the state, with many coming on shopping group tours and sometimes wearing matching shirts. Due to this, major shopping centers in the Orlando and Miami areas now offer services in [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]]. Most goods for sale in the state are subject to sales tax. In most of the state the rate is 7%, but it varies from 6-7.5% (6% state sales tax and up to 1.5% local sales tax). This rate is almost never listed on the advertised or displayed prices. ==Eat== [[File:Florida orange grove.JPG|thumb|A typical Florida orange grove near [[Sebring]].]] Florida's cuisine is a mix of many influences and its styles vary across the state from North to South. [[North Florida]] has a more Southern style; [[South Florida]] a more Caribbean one. There specifically, early Spanish and African cuisines have been given a new spin with the impact of Cuban and other Caribbean cultures, as well as from "snowbirds" escaping the Northern U.S. winters. Being on a peninsula, Florida's chefs have always had access to fresh seafood, and the long growing season provides fresh native vegetables almost year round. *'''Citrus''' is a main export, and a tourist is apt to see many roadside stands offering free samples of orange juice and fruits to be shipped or carried home. Florida also grows grapefruit, avocado, mango, papaya, passion fruit, kumquat, coconut and other tropical fruits. These often provide the base for sauces and marinades and are also used in marmalades, soups, and desserts. Official state welcome centers located on I-10, I-75, and I-95 as you enter Florida offer free samples of orange juice to all visitors, a tradition that goes back decades. *'''Strawberries''' are another popular fruit in Florida. [[Plant City]], off I-4 east of [[Tampa]], is the center of the Florida strawberry industry, where during the peak season (Feb-Mar) many roadside vendors offer flats (16 pints/12 lb/5.4 kg) and half-flats of strawberries for a small fraction of grocery store prices. Since most stands are owned by the individual farmers, the fruit sold was often harvested that morning or the day before. Fresh Florida strawberries are a treat no tourist should miss, at least if you visit in-season. *'''Grouper''' is a very popular seafood caught in Florida's coastal waters. Fresh grouper is offered in many coastal cities, where local restaurants buy it straight from fishermen, and it is often served fried or grilled on a sandwich. State inspectors have cracked down to ensure that all restaurants offering "grouper" are in fact serving grouper, and not another less expensive white fish. Snapper, snook, tarpon, marlin, and shark are other Florida fish that you can find at coastal restaurants, although they are not nearly as ubiquitous as grouper. *'''Southern food''' is available throughout most of [[North Florida|North]] and [[Central Florida]]. Barbeque is popular throughout the state, with many small "barbeque shacks" to choose from. Any platter costing over $10 ($15 for ribs) should be avoided as the less expensive restaurants are almost always best. Sweet tea is also common throughout the state, although unlike most areas in the [[South (United States of America)|South]], you have a choice between sweet and unsweet tea. Boiled peanuts, which taste nothing like a regular peanut, can be found at roadside vendors and are certainly worth trying. Dishes such as fried chicken, grits, okra, biscuits & gravy, and collard greens can also be found in restaurants and buffets throughout the state. *'''Cuban food''' is common in the [[Miami]] and [[Tampa]] areas, with the most common dishes being the Cuban sandwich, flan, and black beans & rice. *'''Local specialties''', not readily available in many other locales, include '''alligator'''. It is healthy and most say it tastes like chicken, and it is often prepared like chicken nuggets. '''Key lime pie''', found elsewhere now, is a [[Florida Keys]] invention, made from the local key limes. Florida bans indoor smoking in restaurants, but it is allowed outdoors unless the establishment prohibits it.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Drink== [[File:MIAMI-ArtDeco-rj002.jpg|thumb|The art deco hotels and clubs of Miami's [[Miami Beach/South Beach|South Beach]].]] '''Alcoholic beverages''' abound throughout the state. However, five rural counties in the northern third of the state are "dry counties", and no alcohol is sold in them. Stand-alone liquor stores are often built into strip malls, supermarkets, and pharmacies, and most grocery stores, gas stations, and convenience stores sell beer and wine. '''Bars and clubs''' are popular throughout the state, with [[Miami Beach]] being well-known for a variety of themed and upscale bars with innovative mixed drinks. Unique bars and clubs can also be found in downtown [[Orlando]] and the nearby tourist areas closer to the theme parks and resorts of [[Walt Disney World|Disney]] and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]]. No visit to Florida is complete without a cup of their famous '''orange juice'''. Like every other U.S. state, the purchase and possession age for alcohol is 21 and it's fairly well enforced. Underage drinking "stings" are frequent in most tourist areas. Florida allows smoking in bars, including those that serve food, but the bar must get less than 10% of their revenue from food.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Sleep== == Respect == If you're using a boat or other vehicle, like a jetski, in the water, it may be necessary to significantly reduce speed in areas inhabited by manatees and/or dolphins. Fast-moving vehicles can cause harm to a manatee's respiratory system. Misuse of recreation areas has caused record manatee deaths in 2021. ==Connect== [[File:Siesta Key Beach TV-001-0002.jpg|thumb|The gentle white sands of Siesta Key]] ===Internet=== Essentially all '''hotels''' offer Wi-Fi internet access for guests, and almost always for free; some even have Ethernet ports for higher-speed wired connections. Many '''businesses''' also have free Wi-Fi. This even includes some clothing/department, grocery, and convenience stores in addition to the more typical restaurants and shopping malls. All the main airports have free Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi internet access is also available at '''public libraries'''. It's almost always free for everyone with their own device (laptop, smartphone, tablet). Computers set up for internet access by patrons require a username and password to access; nearly all libraries will issue a "guest pass" for non-cardholders, though there is occasionally a nominal fee. Use of library computers is subject to time limits which vary widely. The large majority of "internet cafes" in the state are actually nominally illegal casinos, set up for online gambling in an attempt to circumvent gambling laws. Such internet cafes do not have typical computers for general use. Instead, they are usually enclosed in a slot machine-style cover with only a few buttons to press, and set up to only view gambling websites. Patrons pay for short periods of time, sometimes using odd methods like buying prepaid phone cards. After a high-profile crackdown on an operator of dozens of such internet cafes, the state banned the opening of all new internet cafes in 2013. ==Stay safe== Dialing '''911''' at any telephone will reach the emergency services (police, fire, ambulance, etc.). Any phone connected to a U.S. network, regardless of whether or not it has a paid account, must be able to dial 911 if it is connected to the network, and such calls are always free. ===Crime=== Florida has varying crime intensity from city to city. In certain areas of the large cities it may not be safe to walk alone or even in small groups at night, although these are the exceptions and most of Florida is safe for visitors. Tourist areas rarely have violent crimes, but theft is an occasional occurrence. If the area doesn't feel safe, then it probably isn't. '''Clip joint''' operators who trick visitors into paying large amounts of money for low-quality services may use local police to shake down voyagers under a Florida law that requires bar and restaurant patrons pay a disputed bill first and take it up later with their credit card company. Avoid getting involved in '''road rage''' incidents while driving in Florida as firearms frequently get involved. If someone cuts you off on the highway (a frequent occurence) just let it go.<!-- http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/04/07/17-charged-south-beach-alcohol-scam.html --> ===Weather=== {{infobox|Extreme Temperatures|''Never leave children or pets in a parked car for any length of time!'' Due to the high temperatures most of the year, the interior of a parked car can easily heat to a '''lethal''' temperature very quickly. During the summer, the interior of a parked car can reach {{convert|130|to|170|F}} in just 15 minutes, regardless of the color of the exterior or interior, nor whether the windows are open a small amount. You not only risk their lives, but '''it is illegal''' and the consequences could be thousands in fines and even imprisonment. Vehicles left containing animals or children ''will'' be broken into by police or bystanders.}} Florida has a high occurrence of '''hurricanes''', though they don't hit the state every year. You might want to check the [[Cyclones|hurricane safety]] page if you are visiting Florida during the Hurricane Season, which runs June 1 to November 30. Few places in the world experience more frequent '''lightning strikes''' than Florida. The summer thunderstorms in Florida produce frequent lightning, which kills people each year and injures many more. Stay indoors during a thunderstorm and ''never'' seek shelter under a tree. Most casualties occur on golf courses, but lightning strikes everywhere. If you must go outdoors during a storm, try to stay away from any tall object, especially trees or anything made of metal. Occasionally, thunderstorms will bring '''hail, high winds, and [[Tornado safety|tornadoes]]'''. While the historical number of tornadoes in Florida is somewhat high, the overwhelming majority have occurred during hurricanes (Hurricane Jeanne alone spawned over 200 tornadoes in Florida). While some do occur during winter cold fronts and summer thunderstorms, 99% of them are weak (F-0/F-1). Thus, while statistics may suggest otherwise, tornadoes are not a big hazard in Florida. Watch where and when you swim. While the beaches are great they sometimes harbor '''rip currents, bacteria, and jellyfish'''. Always check with the lifeguard stand or ranger station before heading in if no one is in the water or if the waves are rough. '''Red tide''' is the name for harmful algal blooms that can occur on Florida's Gulf coast. They cause fish kills and water discoloration, and release toxins into the air that cause respiratory irritation. People with severe or chronic respiratory conditions, such as emphysema or asthma, should avoid areas where red tide is occurring. Swimming in water afflicted by red tide can cause skin and eye irritation and is not recommended. Heavy rain can make the roads dangerous. Although many highway drainage systems in Florida are well-designed by necessity, it can be almost impossible to see through your windshield during the worst rainstorms. Light and torrential rain can be a hundred feet apart, so when you hit heavy rain, it's common for vehicular traffic to slow to speeds as low as 20 mph if necessary, even on major interstates. However, there are a few drivers who ignore the protocol and drive fast anyway. Even though it's common, it's illegal to drive with hazard lights on in the rain. Use them only if you are completely stopped. ===Wildlife=== {{main|Dangerous animals}} '''Alligators''' are a threat throughout Florida (even in inland areas like [[Orlando]] and the [[Walt Disney World]]<!-- http://www.cnn.com/2016/06/15/us/alligator-attacks-child-disney-florida/index.html -->), and it should be assumed that they are present in ''all'' stagnant or slow moving freshwater. ''Never'' swim in any lakes or rivers unless signs tell you swimming is safe, and beware when approaching the water anywhere. Do not allow children or pets to approach the water's edge. '''Bears''' and '''Florida panthers''', common before the arrival of Europeans in Florida, are now both endangered in the state. If you do see either, back off slowly or keep your distance, and make yourself appear larger by waving your arms above your head. When hiking, make lots of noise to avoid startling an animal, and always keep small children close to you. Both species are endangered and protected under Florida law, and harassing or injuring one (even in a vehicle accident) will result in prosecution. [[Volusia County]] is known for a high number of '''shark attacks''', but they can occur anywhere in the state, so be careful when surfing. Even so, the number of attacks are less than 50, with a fatal attack every 2-3 years, amongst ''millions'' of visitors and residents who swim in the ocean. Swimming near dusk and dawn is the most hazardous. '''Lionfish''' are a poisonous and invasive fish that are now present on reefs throughout Florida. They can be identified by their red-and white striped bodies and poisonous spines. Stings are extremely painful and often require hospitalization. Due to their status as an invasive species, any sighting of lionfish should be reported to wildlife management authorities immediately. '''Jellyfish''' are also sometimes common at the beaches, and '''venomous snakes''' can be found year round across the state, so it is good to be wary of both. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== A large number of countries have consulates in and around [[Miami#Consulates|Miami]], with a much smaller number in [[Jacksonville#Consulates|Jacksonville]], [[Orlando#Consulates|Orlando]] and [[Tampa#Consulates|Tampa]]. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are available only in [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]. ==See also== * '''[[British Florida]]''' Although Florida was under Spanish control for most of its history prior to U.S. control, there was a brief period of 20 years during which it was a British colony. During British rule in the region, it was divided into two colonies: East Florida governed from St. Augustine, and West Florida governed from Pensacola. * '''[[Spanish Florida]]''' Prior to its annexation by the United States, Florida was a colony of Spain. From the founding of St. Augustine in 1565 to the collapse of their empire in the 1820s, the Spanish built forts, missions, and attempted to settle the subtropical, humid peninsula despite competition from other European powers. * '''[[Seminole Wars]]''', not as well known as the other wars in which the United States participated in the 19th century, were a significant development of the Indian Removal Wars. Conflicts between British, American, Spanish, and Seminole participants date back to the 18th century, but the most coordinated fighting took place between the Napoleonic Wars and the American Civil War. * '''[[Summer in Florida]]''' is a popular time to visit, for example for its theme parks, because it's when most North Americans have vacations. However, the climate during this period can make travel more complicated, unless your travels are carefully managed * '''[[East Central Regional Rail Trail]]''' * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' ==Go next== * '''[[Alabama]]''' - North of the Panhandle is Alabama, with the historic port of [[Mobile]] and popular resort town [[Gulf Shores]] a short drive away from this region of Florida. * '''[[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]''' - Heading out of Florida to the north is Georgia, with the historic city of [[Savannah]] and the resort beaches of [[Jekyll Island]] close by. * '''[[Caribbean]]''' - The islands of the Caribbean are accessible by boat and plane from across Florida and offer a variety of both relaxing and adventure travel amidst a tropical paradise. For those interested in visiting the '''[[Bahamas]]''' (as the nearest country), many owners of small boats will make the day-long trip to the island chain, and several small airlines offer flights for under $70 each way. Other popular destinations in the Caribbean that are further from Florida by boat are '''[[Dominican Republic]], [[Puerto Rico]]''', and the '''[[Virgin Islands]]'''. * '''[[Colombia]]''' and '''[[Venezuela]]''' are the nearest countries in '''[[South America]]''' that are 3-4 hours away by plane, on a direct flight from [[South Florida]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]]. * '''[[Cancun]]''' and '''[[Merida (Mexico)|Merida]]''' on the [[Yucatán_and_the_South|Yucatán Peninsula]] are the nearest cities in MExico from [[Miami International Airport|Miami]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]] that are a 2 hr 15 min away by plane. To go further into Mexico, [[Benito Juárez International Airport| Mexico City]] is 3 hr 40 min away from Miami or Orlando. * '''[[Central America]]''' is 2-3 hours on a plane from Miami, Ft Lauderdale and Orlando. <br />{{usableregion}} {{geo|28.1|-82.0|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|United_States}} {{related|Tornado_safety}} 45rzh4ek10d0pbmnplr100mnkdz6bh8 5288907 5288898 2026-06-06T17:02:39Z Anyone150 1516949 /* Itineraries */ 5288907 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lummus_Park_Florida_banner.jpg}} {{otheruses}}'''Florida''' is the southernmost state in the continental [[United States of America]]. Known as "The Sunshine State", over a century ago it became a popular winter destination for the well-to-do from colder climates; it has grown to become the second-most visited state in the nation. Tourists have long been drawn to Florida by its white-sand beaches and unique and diverse cities. Since the mid-twentieth century, world-class theme parks and attractions have become a top draw as well. In the 21st century, Florida has become the preferred retirement destination for rich Americans from all over the country. The state's roots in agriculture are still relevant, with oranges being a chief export. Untouched natural landscapes teeming with wildlife exist in vast areas, sometimes very close to cities, and there are miles of rivers and trails for the intrepid visitor. Some of Florida's best secrets are charming small towns and other places in secluded locations, away from the crowded tourist areas but certainly worth seeing. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Florida Static Map.png | regionmaptext=Regions of Florida | regionmapsize=410px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[First Coast]] | region1color=#c68d98ff | region1items= | region1description=The end of the St. Johns River is the location of [[Jacksonville]], one of the largest cities in the state, and some coastal towns including America's oldest city, [[St. Augustine]]. | region2name=[[Volusia County]] | region2color=#a9a567ff | region2items= | region2description=A beach county, also known as the "Fun Coast," frequented by snowbirds, [[Inland Florida]] residents, and fans of the Daytona 500. | region3name=[[Space Coast]] | region3color=#c39dc3ff | region3items= | region3description=The [[Kennedy Space Center]], [[Cape Canaveral]], and some coastal towns to the south are within this region, which is synonymous with Brevard County. | region4name=[[Treasure Coast]] | region4color=#ffd0d0ff | region4items= | region4description=Between Miami and the rest of the Atlantic coast, there are some medium-sized cities here, but it is still more off the beaten path than the counties to the south. | region5name=[[Greater Miami]] | region5color=#4da9c4ff | region5items=[[Palm Beach County]], [[Broward County]], [[Miami-Dade County]] | region5description=Miami and its surroundings (called the "Gold Coast") are known for their ethnic diversity, proximity to Latin America, and tourist appeal along the many miles of beautiful beaches. | region6name=[[Florida Keys]] | region6color=#d5dc76ff | region6items= | region6description=A chain of islands off the southern tip of the peninsula, and one of the state's main tourist destinations with its breathtaking tropical beauty. | region7name=[[Florida West Coast]] | region7color=#80bb89ff | region7items=[[Big Bend Coast]], [[Tampa Bay Area]], [[Southwest Florida]] | region7description=Particularly in the north, more rural than its eastern counterpart, the western coast is known for its Tampa-St. Petersburg metro area and many beautiful beaches in the southwest of the state, with the [[Everglades]] separating the region from Miami. | region8name=[[Florida Panhandle]] | region8color=#d56d76ff | region8items=[[Emerald Coast]], [[Forgotten Coast]], [[Middle Florida]], [[West Florida]] | region8description=The Florida panhandle is a "Deep South" region of antebellum plantations, red hills, and white sand beaches. Cities include the state capital of Tallahassee, Destin, Pensacola, and Panama City Beach. | region9name=[[Inland Florida]] | region9color=#d8a55eff | region9items=[[North Central Florida]], [[Greater Orlando]], [[Lake County (Florida)|Lake County]], [[Polk County (Florida)|Polk County]], [[Florida Heartland]] | region9description=A few cities dot this mostly rural region, including the college town of [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], the theme parks of [[Orlando]], and small towns throughout the rest. }} ==Cities== Below is a selection of some of Florida's most notable cities. Other cities can be found under their specific regions. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tallahassee]]|url=|lat=30.455|long=-84.253333|wikidata=Q37043}} – The state capital and thriving college town home to three schools, including Florida State<!-- capital top, alphabetize the rest --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Fort Lauderdale]]|url=|lat=26.133333|long=-80.15|wikidata=Q165972}} – The "Venice of America" with its expansive canal system, also known for beaches and boating *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Jacksonville]]|url=|lat=30.336944|long=-81.661389|wikidata=Q16568}} – Sprawling city encompassing large beaches, world-class museums, and award-winning golf *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Miami]]|url=|lat=25.775278|long=-80.208889|wikidata=Q8652}} – The center of Caribbean and Latin American culture, famed for its beachfront nightclubs *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Orlando]]|url=|lat=28.415833|long=-81.298889|wikidata=Q49233}} – The theme park capital of the world also features exciting dining, a lively arts scene, and ample recreation *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pensacola]]|url=|lat=30.433333|long=-87.2|wikidata=Q486306}} – White-sand beaches draw tourists to this town of ancient shipwrecks and military fighter jets *{{marker|type=city|name=[[St. Augustine]]|url=|lat=29.894722|long=-81.314444|wikidata=Q487988}} – The oldest city in the country is home to two more-than 400-year-old Spanish forts, restaurants, and shops *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tampa]]|url=|lat=27.968056|long=-82.476389|wikidata=Q49255}} – Large Gulf Coast metro area home to bustling nightlife as well as famed natural sites *{{marker|type=city|name=[[West Palm Beach]]|url=|lat=26.709722|long=-80.064167|wikidata=Q163749}} – Ritzy town home to the rich & famous, featuring high-end shopping and beautiful beaches ==Other destinations== [[File:Eudocimus albus (foraging).jpg|thumb|American white ibis at the Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area in [[Everglades National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Amelia Island]]|url=|lat=30.615556|long=-81.453889|wikidata=Q461578}} – Historic island at the north end of the state, with excellent golf resorts and a lively downtown *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Biscayne National Park]]|url=|lat=25.469444|long=-80.186111|wikidata=Q866080}} – A massive marine park protecting a wide range of animals and coral reefs *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Canaveral National Seashore]]|url=|lat=28.7675|long=-80.776944|wikidata=Q5031230}} – The longest stretch of unspoiled beach on the Atlantic coast, near rocket launches *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Everglades National Park]]|url=|lat=25.3125|long=-80.6875|wikidata=Q274131}} – Massive, vital, and delicate ecosystem protecting a great variety of plants and animals *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Florida Keys]]|url=|lat=24.666944|long=-81.544167|wikidata=Q537749}} – Chain of islands stretching into the Caribbean, offering tropical scenery and a laid-back lifestyle *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gulf Islands National Seashore]]|url=|lat=30.364444|long=-86.9675|wikidata=Q3120743}} – 12 islands along the Gulf Coast, featuring excellent beaches and sea turtles *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ocala National Forest]]|url=|lat=29.173611|long=-81.821667|wikidata=Q2013302}} – Extensive inland forest giving visitors a taste of old Florida charm *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Walt Disney World]]|url=|lat=28.385233|long=-81.563874|wikidata=Q206859}} – The "happiest place on earth", encompassing 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, and countless other amenities There are also articles on aspects of the state's history: [[Spanish Florida]] and [[Seminole Wars]]. ==Understand== While Florida is considered to be part of the [[South (United States of America)|South]], it originated not as a British colony, but as a Spanish one. As a result, the state has a unique history. Although Florida was a founding member of the Confederate States of America, and like other Southern states shared the experience of slavery and racial segregation during its history, today, Florida is a '''very diverse''' state, and contains a number of regions with slight cultural differences of their own that contribute to the state's diversity. Therefore, no one accent dominates in the speech of its residents, and it's often said that Florida is the only state that gets more "Southern" the farther ''north'' you go, and that is indeed true in a cultural sense. For a long time, Florida had been a swing state in presidential elections, almost evenly divided between Republicans and Democrats. However, a large influx of retirees in the 21st century has swung the political balance in favor of the Republicans as of the 2020s. ===History=== {{see also|Spanish Florida|British Florida}} Florida was inhabited by [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native Americans]] for over 13,000 years before the arrival of European explorers, colonists and slavers. It is estimated that there were some 350,000 inhabitants, of many tribes, when the Spanish explorer '''Juan Ponce de León''' arrived in 1513 in search of, according to legend, the Fountain of Youth. The first European settlement dates back to the 1560s with [[St. Augustine]], established in 1565, holding the distinction of being the oldest permanent European settlement in what is now the United States. However, this early settlement did not lead to the same level of rapid colonization that took place in the British colonies to the north, as the climate made large-scale settlement, especially inland, difficult for Europeans who were used to milder climates. Attempted settlements by Europeans, such as the [[New Smyrna Beach]] colony owned by a British man who employed former inhabitants of the Balearic Islands, were not always successful as challenges of climate and disease took their toll on the residents, who themselves ultimately moved to [[St. Augustine]]. From this time onward the state would not see large-scale economic and population expansion until Florida's statehood in the 19th century, when agriculture &mdash; including notably orange trees &mdash; and later tourism would achieve important roles in the state's economy. Along with the climate challenges, battles and competing claims for the region posed a challenge to the region's settlers. However, many Africans and African-Americans moved to Florida during the territory's early years because King Charles of Spain had issued a royal proclamation freeing all slaves who fled to [[Spanish Florida]], if they converted to Catholicism. {{Infobox|Shooting for the Stars|A source of pride and joy in Florida is its outsize role in the history of [[space exploration]]. Cape Canaveral began to be used for missile launches in 1949, and following President John F. Kennedy's vow to put American astronauts on the Moon before the end of the 1960s, early space flights took place there on converted missiles. The most important launches by NASA, including the Apollo 11 moon launch watched around the world in 1969, have taken place at the John F. Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral. Unfortunately, however, to make way for the creation of the space center, many residents of the Cape Canaveral region, including some African-Americans, were required by the government to leave Cape Canaveral, and little remains of the settlements that once existed in the Cape Canaveral region.}} Native Americans, including members of the Calusa tribe, fought effectively to defend their tribal lands from European colonization of the region; therefore it was some time before Europeans established colonies. However, once Europeans took control of the Florida region, oppression and killing of '''Native Americans''' &mdash; often as a result of war or disease &mdash; was tragic as it was in many other regions of the Americas. Following substantial depopulation of the state's native tribes, the Seminole tribe moved in and established themselves in Florida in the 18th century, though several conflicts between the Spanish, attempting to maintain Florida, and Americans attempting to annex the region, made an already disputed territory's political situation complex for Native Americans and settlers. Native Americans living in Florida fought hard and continued to guard their independence after Spanish Florida was ceded to the United States in 1821. The new territory of the U.S. was a slave plantation economy, much like the rest of the South at the time; the Seminoles gladly welcomed runaway slaves and accepted them into their tribe. However, after the [[Seminole Wars|Second Seminole War]], almost the entire tribe was deported west of the Mississippi River as part of the [[Trail of Tears]]. Florida was admitted to the Union as a slave state in 1845, but seceded and joined the '''Confederacy''' with the rest of the South in 1861. Largely untouched by the [[American Civil War]], the state enforced Jim Crow segregation laws against its then very large (approximately 44%) black population for a century after the Confederates' defeat. By the early 20th century, Florida had more lynchings per capita than any other state. However, there were three '''20th-century migrations''' that fundamentally changed the character of Florida, to the extent that many people no longer consider much of the state to be culturally Southern: the move of one-fifth of the state's African-American population to the Northern United States as part of the Great Migration during the first decades of the 20th century; the arrival of an increasing number of white retirees from the North after the spread of air conditioning in the 1950s; and the arrival of several waves of Cuban immigrants after the victory of Fidel Castro in 1959, who established themselves primarily in South Florida, particularly [[Miami-Dade County|Dade County]]. Florida has also seen major influxes of Latino immigrants from Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Central and South America, and Mexico, and there have also been many Haitian immigrants. ===Culture=== [[File:The Call-Collins House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida (7157983334).jpg|thumb|The Call-Collins Plantation House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida ]] Florida is geographically the southernmost of the contiguous United States, and it is a '''unique blend''' of societies. The [[Florida Panhandle]], much of [[North Florida]], rural areas of [[Central Florida]], and the [[Florida Heartland]] remain part of the cultural region of [[South (United States of America)|the South]], where you will find traditional southern cooking, entertainment, dialect, and lifestyles, much as you would expect in states like [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] or [[Alabama]]. Generally, the further south you go in the state, the more unlike the South it seems, and although Southern culture can be found in every region of the state, it is not always prevalent. Cities such as [[Tampa]] and [[Orlando]] offer the feel of the South, alongside many other cultures. There are a lot of Southerners in these areas, but also many people who are from other areas like the [[Midwest]] or the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. [[Miami]], on the other hand, is unique in that it feels like a cross between an American metropolis and a major Latin American city (like [[Rio de Janeiro|Rio]] or [[São Paulo]]). There are some Seminole Native American reservations and villages throughout southern Florida, namely in the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]], and their indigenous culture can be experienced by visiting a shop and browsing arts and crafts. The southernmost [[Florida Keys]] offer yet another flavor, full of the casual, slow-paced atmosphere of beach life. In short, Florida is a full-fledged region of the [[United States]] in its own right.[[File:Miami Beach FL Arch Dist Collins Ave down south01.jpg|thumb|267x267px|A view south on Collins Avenue in the [[Miami Beach/South Beach|Miami Beach Architectural District]]]] Much of the southern part of Florida is inhabited by people of Hispanic or Latino origin. The region that is substantially to in places majority Hispanic or Latino extends north to Orlando. There are large Cuban and Puerto Rican populations in [[Miami]] and the south side of [[Greater Orlando]], respectively. The white population is higher to the north, and by the northern border with Georgia and Alabama, the Hispanic/Latino population is very low. The Black or African-American population is primarily on the mainland and throughout the state, with historically Black communities and history in the [[Daytona Beach]] metro area, [[Jacksonville]], and Gadsden County in the Panhandle. The ethnic diversity of Florida, while not particularly cosmopolitan outside of certain urban centers, has contributed substantially to the culture, with Spanish spoken in some areas, but in the north, a tendency toward American cuisine and English language exists with few alternatives and much of the population of this region are known by outsiders as "rednecks." There are smaller communities of ethnic minorities including those of Anglo- or Franco-Caribbean or Middle Eastern origin, but these have a smaller impact on the state's culture than the largest ethnic groups. Due to a combination of factors, despite the state's high urbanization relative to many other Southern states, it does not lean as "liberal" as many comparably urban and ethnically diverse states in the North. The state is considered to be on the tipping point between left and right, but despite the prominently right-wing government that scraped through the 2018 elections, the state as a whole is middle of the road for the U.S. Orlando, state capital [[Tallahassee]], [[Fort Lauderdale]] and college town [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] lean left while most of Miami, [[Tampa]]-[[St Petersburg]], southwest Florida, parts of the east coast and rural inland and Panhandle lean conservative when compared with demographically similar communities in other parts of the country. However, almost all regions of the state are politically diverse. ===Landscape=== Florida's '''coastline is world class''', with several gorgeous beaches, bays, and estuaries. The Floridian landscape is extremely flat, however, with lakes and wetlands scattered throughout most of the state, though a mixture of ecosystems distract from the lack of topography. The only exceptions are parts of Highlands, Polk, Lake, and a few other counties in the center of the state where rolling hills are common. The highest point in the state is the {{ft|345}} Britton Hill on the Panhandle, and the {{ft|298}} Iron Mountain in Polk County is the highest point on the Peninsula. Florida's cities tend to be big, sprawling, and well-developed, but not as close to each other as an atlas might imply. Despite being a densely-populated state, there are fortunately still several expanses of wilderness left, although these are often near or between populated urban areas. Some rural parts of the state grow citrus and sugar cane, but farmland tends to be in regions outside the usual tourist areas. The [[Florida Panhandle]] and most of [[North Florida]] consist of farmland and pine trees, but as you travel south, you'll see more wetlands and urbanization, culminating at the Everglades in the far south of the state near Miami. The [[Florida Keys]] are a small chain of tropical islands with their own unique geography. ===Climate=== [[Image:Frances 2004-09-05 1815Z.jpg|thumb|293x293px|right|Hurricane Frances makes landfall on the morning of September 5, 2004 near Stuart. Its impact, however, was felt throughout Central Florida and most of Florida's east coast.]] Florida is known around the world for warm and sunny weather and this has led to the state being a major tourist destination. Florida has the mildest winters on the US mainland, and retirees and temporary residents known as "snowbirds", flock to the state in the cold season. Coastal areas experience gentle breezes during the summer, and the beach is usually the coolest place to be. While those coastal breezes are a welcome relief from the scorching temperatures, they are also the cause of a well-known Florida weather feature: '''thunderstorms'''. While the storms are often brief, they are common, and anyone visiting Florida during the rainy season (mid-June to September) should plan a few indoor activities in the afternoons as a backup. Florida's thunderstorms occur every day during the rainy season and typically form 20-30mi (32-48km) inland and either move toward the center of the state or toward the coast. Due to this, rain can be occurring just a few miles inland from the coast, while those at the beach experience a beautiful day. While the storms cool the air, bringing a welcome though often short relief to stifling temperatures, many produce considerable amounts of '''dangerous lightning''' and some bring hail, high winds of 50 mph (80 km/h) or more, and tornadoes. See the "stay safe" section for thunderstorm safety. Many tourist areas, such as [[Walt Disney World]], have multiple attractions available even during downpours. The spring is the driest time of the year, leading to wildfires nearly every May and early June. The six-month '''[[Hurricane safety|hurricane]] season''' runs from June 1 through November 30 and Floridians have learned to be ready when a storm threatens the area. If you plan on visiting during the months of June through November and especially during the peak of the hurricane season from August through October, stay aware of the news and weather advisories. Information is available from the [http://www.nhc.noaa.gov National Hurricane Center]. Cyclones are unlikely but possible in the month of May. From June through October is the hot and wet season in Florida. High temperatures are often in the 80s to 90s F (30-32 C) and lows in the 70s (24 C). Heat indices typically range between {{F|75}} and {{F|97}}, but on some of the hottest days, the heat indices can climb to {{F|107}} and not go below {{F|80}} at night. The Bermuda High pumps in hot and unstable tropical air from the Bahamas and Gulf of Mexico, which help create the daily thundershowers that are typical in summer months in Florida. Intense but very brief downpours are common in summer in much of Florida. Normally, the wet season starts to fade by early November in northern Florida and reaches southern Florida by late November. From December through April the weather in much is Florida is mild and often dry. The dry season (or winter) is often the driest and most sunny season in Florida, Average high temperatures range from the low 60's in northern Florida to the mid 70's F in far southern Florida. Overnight lows fall to the middle 40's in northern Florida to near 60 F in far southern Florida. A few times each winter, a strong cold front may drop temperatures to near freezing across northern Florida, though in many years there is no freeze at all from central Florida southward. In the driest months, Florida often has long periods of rain-less weather, and by April drought conditions with brush fires and water restrictions are sometimes in place. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitflorida.com/ Visit Florida] website ==Talk== '''English''' is the official language of the state. However, [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]] is the native language of approximately 20% of Florida residents, and the further south you go, the more Spanish speakers there will be. In some parts of [[South Florida]], Spanish is the preferred language in everyday activities. [[Miami]] is most notable, where nearly 80% of residents do not speak English as their native language and 30% do not speak any English at all. [[Tampa]] also has a sizable Spanish-speaking population, and neighborhoods where it is almost exclusively spoken. Like anywhere where there is a large presence of another language, expect Spanish words or expressions used or calqued into everyday English. Gullah, a distinctive English-based creole, is spoken by some African-American communities along the northeastern coast, near the border with Georgia. Native-born non-Hispanic Floridians from the northern part of the state will usually speak with a Southern accent. However, after the migration of millions of Americans from all over the country to the central and southern parts of the state, the Southern dialect is becoming diluted with other accents. Residents of Miami often speak in a distinctive accent with strong influences from Cuban Spanish. ==Get in== [[Image:Orlando International Airport hotel rooms.jpg|227x227px|thumb|A full-service Marriott hotel is directly within Orlando International Airport]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Air travel in the United States}} *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Orlando International Airport]]|wikidata=Q929859}} ({{IATA|MCO}}) - your choice airport for [[Disney World]] and the other attractions in [[Central Florida]]. Located south of downtown [[Orlando]], this airport offers tons of car rentals and free shuttles to Disney and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]] for visitors. Being centrally located it serves as a hub or focus city for Jetblue, Frontier, and Southwest Airlines. There are international connections from South America, Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, Europe and the Middle East. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Miami International Airport]]|wikidata=Q127530}} ({{IATA|MIA}}) - the biggest airport for travel in [[South Florida]], it's the best option for trips to the [[Everglades]] or [[Miami|Miami's]] beaches. The airport is a hub for American Airlines and the most popular entry point with a wide variety of flights from Europe, South America, Central America, the Caribbean, Cuba and Mexico. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Tampa#By plane|Tampa International Airport]]|wikidata=Q571536}} ({{IATA|TPA}}) - serves the Gulf Coast, namely the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area. There are direct flights offered from all over the U.S. and from a number of international destinations in Canada, Cuba, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Fort Lauderdale#By plane|Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport]]|wikidata=Q635361}} ({{IATA|FLL}}) - the fourth-largest airport in Florida, and another valid option to consider with many domestic low-fare carriers such as Allegiant, JetBlue, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Jacksonville#By plane|Jacksonville International Airport]]|wikidata=Q1431579}} ({{IATA|JAX}}) - primary airport for travel in [[North Florida]], serving [[Amelia Island]] and historic [[St. Augustine]]. Other large airports can be found in [[Pensacola]], [[Fort Myers]], [[Tallahassee]], [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]]/[[Clearwater]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Sarasota]], [[Key West]], [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], [[Melbourne (Florida)|Melbourne]], and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]]. There are many more airports throughout Florida that may get you closer to your destination; watch for these smaller airports while researching your destination. ===By car=== [[File:Brickell skyline 2012.jpg|thumb|The skyline of [[Miami/Brickell|Brickell, Miami]]|240x240px]] Three [[Driving in the United States|Interstate highways]] connect Florida with adjacent states: * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|Interstate 10 (I-10)]]''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and passes through the center of the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]] and across [[North Florida]] until its terminus in Jacksonville. Interstate 10 is most convenient for travelers from [[Louisiana]], [[Texas]], and areas farther west. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' also enters Florida from Georgia and passes through the center of the state until the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area, after which it follows the Gulf of Mexico coast (10-20 mi/16-32 km inland) to [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], where it heads due east across the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]] to Fort Lauderdale. Interstate 75 is most convenient for travelers arriving from [[Atlanta]] and the [[Midwest]]. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] just north of [[Jacksonville]] and parallels the Atlantic coast, never more than 25 miles inland, until its terminus south of downtown [[Miami]]. Interstate 95 provides the most convenient route for people from the East Coast, [[New England]], eastern parts of [[Canada]]. Jacksonville, [[Daytona Beach]], and the Miami-[[Fort Lauderdale]]-[[West Palm Beach]] area are all serviced by I-95, with access to [[Orlando]] provided via Interstate 4. * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''I-4''' does not cross any state line but is still called an interstate. It crosses the state from Gulf to East coast, passing from Tampa in the west through Orlando and ending at the western boundary of Daytona Beach. It curves to the north on its easternmost segment. The road, particularly on the north side of Orlando, is notoriously dangerous, and the frequent thunderstorms in addition to ongoing road work don't help with this concern. The speeds on this road are high and speed limits are ignored by most, but as a quick route there are few comparable alternatives and it does a good job of connecting the suburbs. Additional major highways entering Florida include: * [[File:US 1.svg|link=US Route 1#Florida|22px]] '''[[US Route 1|US-1]]''' enters Florida north of Jacksonville and snakes along the east coast between Interstate 95 and the Intracoastal Waterway/Atlantic Ocean. Unlike I-95, US 1 continues past Miami and is routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US-27''' enters Florida from western Georgia and provides access to the state capital, [[Tallahassee]], before routing through mostly rural areas of the peninsula. Down the center of the state between Florida's Turnpike and Miami, US 27 is a primary trucking route, and as such this route can be a hassle while dealing with heavy traffic. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US-98''' enters Florida near Pensacola and remains close to the Gulf of Mexico coast until the Panhandle meets the Florida peninsula at the "Big Bend" area. Unlike I-10 to the north, which runs through the interior of the Panhandle away from the coast, US 98 provides a scenic drive and convenient access to the beaches. After leaving the Panhandle, US 98 runs diagonally down the peninsula to West Palm Beach through primarily rural areas. * [[File:US 231.svg|22px]] '''US-231''' enters Florida from Alabama and crosses the Panhandle north-south to its southern terminus at [[Panama City Beach]]. US 231 provides convenient access to the Panhandle from the Midwest via it connection with Interstate 65 in [[Montgomery]]. * [[File:US 301.svg|22px]] '''I-301''' enters Florida just north of Jacksonville and was once the main route from the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. It is a very scenic alternative to I-95 with a lot less traffic. Exiting I-95 at Santee, [[South Carolina]] motorists can follow US 301 through Georgia and into Florida and connect to I-95 again in Jacksonville for Atlantic coast destinations, or continue on to join I-75 at [[Ocala]] for Tampa and the Gulf coast. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to Florida from neighboring states and from the major airports in the states. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''[[Florida#By_bus_2|By bus]]'' under ''Get around'' for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By train=== [[Rail travel in the United States|Amtrak]] has two services to Florida: *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/auto-train.html Amtrak Auto Train]''' ''(Trains #52 & 53)'' carries passengers and automobiles between [[Lorton]], [[Virginia]] and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford, Florida]] (north of [[Orlando]]), effectively serving as a car-rail link to Florida from the [[Washington, D.C.]] metro area. This train makes no stops between Lorton & Sanford and is a way to cut back on the extra mileage and wear and tear on the car. *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/silver-service-palmetto-train.html Amtrak Silver Service]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92 and #97 & 98 respectively)'' are two routes that both begin in [[New York City]] and end in [[Miami]]. The trains follow the same route heading to Florida, except in [[North Carolina|North]] and [[South Carolina]]. Within the state, the trains run the same line from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Kissimmee]]. There, they split again, and the Silver Star (Trains #91 & 92) diverges to head west towards [[Lakeland]] and [[Tampa]] while the Silver Meteor (Trains #97 & 98) continues south towards [[Winter Haven]]. Both routes meet again further south and serve the rest of the stations along Florida's east coast to Miami. ===By boat=== Florida is possibly the largest state for [[Cruise ships|cruise ship]] vacations in the United States. [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Tampa]], [[Miami]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] are all popular starting ports, with cruises heading throughout the [[Caribbean]]. There are also many short-term casino cruises that depart from [[Pinellas County]] and around [[South Florida]]. [http://www.ferryexpress.com/ Ferry service]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is also available to and from the [[Bahamas]], with service between [[Fort Lauderdale]] and [[Freeport (Bahamas)|Freeport]], and between Miami and [[Bimini]]. ==Get around== [[File:Overseas Highway bridge.jpg|thumb|The Overseas Highway to Key West.]] ===By car=== Traveling by car is the most common and most convenient way to get around the state for travelers and locals alike. For the traveler car rental agencies are abound in Florida and many are available at every major airport. [[Orlando]], in particular, is known as the "Car Rental Capital of the World". With Florida being the most visited state in the US, car rental rates here are among (if not) the lowest rates in the country due to sheer volume. '' '''Florida's major highways include:''' '' * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 4 (I-4)''' crosses diagonally from [[Tampa]], heads east through [[Plant City]] and [[Lakeland]], then continues northeast past [[Kissimmee]], [[Walt Disney World]], and [[Orlando]], before ending at Interstate 95 near [[Daytona Beach]]. Interstate 4 is the most travelled highway in Florida and due to the large volume of traffic, high speeds (70 mph,112 km/h outside of urban areas), construction, and large number of tourists it is also the most dangerous highway in the state, in terms of the number of accidents. * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] & [[File:US 90.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|I-10]]''' and '''US-90''' enter Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and travels across the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]], past [[Tallahassee]] and [[Lake City]], and through rural [[North Florida]] to its terminus at I-95 in Jacksonville. US Hwy 90 straddles I-10 through the northern Florida Panhandle, going through the cities and towns as a local surface street/highway while I-10 goes straight through bypassing the cities and towns. US Hwy 90 continues past the I-95 corridor in downtown Jacksonsville and ends at FL A1A at Jacksonville Beach. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' enters Florida from Georgia and runs south through the center of the peninsula past [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] and [[Ocala]] before crossing just east of Tampa, where it then parallels the Gulf coast past [[Bradenton]], [[Sarasota]], [[Fort Myers]], and [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], after which it travels due east across the [[Everglades]] (a section known as 'Alligator Alley') to the Miami suburbs. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]], north of [[Jacksonville]], and travels down the Atlantic coast past [[St. Augustine]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Vero Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] before ending at US 1 just south of downtown [[Miami]]. * [[File:Florida's_Turnpike_shield.svg|link=https://www.floridasturnpike.com|22px]] The '''[https://floridasturnpike.com/ Florida Turnpike]''' is a toll road that runs from I-75 south of Ocala, through Orlando, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale before ending south of Miami. It provides the easiest access to Orlando and southeast Florida for persons entering the state via I-75 or I-10. * [[File:I-275.svg|22px]] '''I-275''' is a secondary Interstate that runs from I-75 north of the Tampa area, past downtown Tampa and [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], where it crosses the 5.5-mile-long (8.8km), 193 foot-tall (58.8m) Sunshine Skyway Bridge before it rejoins I-75 south of Bradenton. Interstate 75 ''does not'' provide access to these areas, it instead passes through rural and suburban areas 10 miles east of Tampa. * [[File:US 1.svg|22px]] '''[[US Route 1#Florida|US-1]]''' is a historic and scenic highway that travels down the Atlantic coast between I-95 and the ocean before being routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:Florida A1A.svg|22px]] '''FL-A1A''' runs parallel to US Hwy 1 as the coastal highway along the east coast. It serves the beach communities as a local street (such as Collins Ave in Miami Beach or Ocean Dr in Ft Lauderdale) in the offshore islands/keys along the entire east coast. It is fragmented and does not run continuously from South Beach to Fernadina Beach. It runs concurrent on US Hwy 1 in places where it is not a separate road. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US 27''' is a well-traveled alternative to Florida's Turnpike and runs from Miami, along Lake Okeechobee and through the mostly-rural [[Florida Heartland|Heartland]] of Florida before continuing through Ocala, Gainesville, and Tallahassee. * [[File:US 41.svg|22px]] '''US 41''' runs west from Miami on a scenic 2-lane journey through the Everglades, and then travels along the Gulf Coast, around the east side of Tampa Bay, and north into Georgia. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US 98''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] at Pensacola and travels a very scenic route along the Gulf Coast of the Panhandle, after which it continues diagonally across the peninsula to its terminus in West Palm Beach. ===By plane=== Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state especially between South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) and the Panhandle (Pensacola and Tallahassee) while others will be relatively short (Ft Lauderdale to Orlando). '''[http://www.atlanticairlines.com/ Atlantic Airlines]''', '''[https://www.allegiantair.com Allegiant]''' (Key west to St Petersburg & Sanford); '''[https://www.flybreeze.com Breeze]''', '''[http://www.aa.com American Airlines/American Eagle]''', '''[https://www.flyfrontier.com Frontier]''', '''[https://www.JetBlue.com JetBlue]''', and '''[https://www.southwest.com/ Southwest]''' offer intrastate flights between cities in Florida. ===By bus=== The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There is fairly frequent service from Orlando (as a 'de-facto' hub) to Naples (via Tampa Bay, Ft Myers); South Florida (W Palm Peach, Ft Lauderdale, Miami); Jacksonville (via Daytona Beach, Ft Pierce); and the Panhandle (via Gainesville, Ocala, Tallahassee) with multiple companies. Others offer connections to the Keys through Miami-Dade and north towards Jacksonville along I-95 without going through Orlando. Check schedules. Many of the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns are not listed, check the article of your destination and the schedules of the company for all the transportation options. Information on transit (local public transportation) can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]: * {{go | name=Greyhound Lines / Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-231-2222 | hours= | price= | content=Connects South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) to Tampa, Naples and Jacksonville through Orlando with onward connections to Atlanta, Savannah, Houston and other cities north from Orlando. They also operate a less frequent service from Miami to Tampa via Belle Glade, Clewiston and Ft Myers. They also go south to Key West via the Florida Keys from Miami and north towards Jacksonville from Miami along I-95. Check schedules. }} * {{go | name=Jet Set Express | alt= | url=https://www.miamiorlando.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407 649-4994 | tollfree= | hours=Venue at stop open 24/7 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-29 | content=Thrice Daily departures to Ft Pierce, Kissimmee, Orlando from the Miami. Check schedules for a listing of other stops which are serviced once or twice daily. }} * {{go | name=Keys Shuttle | alt= | url=http://www.keysshuttle.com/ | email= | address=| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-289-9997 | tollfree=+1-888-765-9997 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-12 | content=The company provides door-to-door service to the Keys from the Miami and Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airports (and vice versa). }} * {{go | name=La Cubana Express | alt= | url=https://lacubanaxpress.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-541-1700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-27 | content=Connects Miami to New York City through Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Washington, DC; Elkton, Maryland; Philadelphia and New Jersey on a single route. In Florida they serve Miami, Ft Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Deltona and Jacksonville. }} * {{go | name=Our Bus | alt=Operated by different bus companies on contract to Our Bus | url=https://ourbus.com/ | email= | address=Terminal B of the Port of Miami Cruise Terminal | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 844 800-6828 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Fares range from $10 to $22 or more | content=Operates service between the Miami Cruise Terminals, Ft Lauderdale Airport, Tampa, Sarasota and Ft Myers. }} * {{go | name=Redcoach | alt= | url=https://www.redcoachusa.com/florida/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407-851-2843 | tollfree=+1-877-733-0724 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-22 | content=Service from Tallahassee to Miami via Ocala, Gainesville and Ft Lauderdale. One branch go through Orlando through Ft Pierce, W Palm Beach and Pompano Beach. Another go through Tampa, Ft Myers and Naples. }} There are a number of local and regional public transportation agencies that offer intercity bus services throughout the state. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]. ===By train=== *[[File:Brightline Train At Ft Lauderdale Station.jpg|thumb|251x251px|A Brightline train at the station in Fort Lauderdale.]]'''[https://www.amtrak.com/silver-service-palmetto-train Amtrak Silver Star]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92)'' and '''Silver Meteor''' ''(Trains #97 & 98)'' - This is a relatively expensive option but will suffice if other means are not possible. Both routes span from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Miami]]. While the two routes are slightly different, they both stop at the following stations: [[Jacksonville]], [[Palatka]], [[DeLand]], [[Winter Park (Florida)|Winter Park]], [[Orlando]], [[Kissimmee]], [[Winter Haven]], [[Sebring]], [[Okeechobee]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Delray Beach]], [[Deerfield Beach]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], [[Hollywood (Florida)|Hollywood]], and [[Miami]]. The slight difference between the two routes is that the Silver Star detours to [[Lakeland]] (to/from the north only) and [[Tampa]] (to/from the south only) while the Silver Meteor proceeds directly to Winter Haven from Kissimmee. * {{listing | name=Sun Rail | alt= | url=http://www.sunrail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 724-5411 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 5AM-11:30PM | price=$2-5 one way | wikipedia=SunRail | wikidata=Q3503715 | lastedit=2019-01-06 | content=Sun Rail is a north-south train on weekdays through [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]], Orlando, and Kissimmee, from Poinciana at its southern end, and DeBary at its northern end. Bus connection is provided from Orlando International Airport to the Sand Lake Road station by Linx routes 11, 42 and 111; and from Orlando-Sanford International Airport to the Sanford station by Linx route 46E. }} * {{listing | name=Tri-Rail | alt= | url=http://www.tri-rail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 954 783-6030 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 4AM-11:35PM (different weekends) | price=$2.50-11.55 for one-day pass |wikipedia=|wikidata=|image=| lastedit=2019-02-24 | content=The regional rail for South Florida with a single 18-station route from its north end at Mangonia Park, through Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach to its south end Miami Airport. It runs the same route as the Amtrak Silver Service from Miami to West Palm Beach with the same shared stops at West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood. This train is connected to Miami International Airport by the MIA Mover shuttle train, to the Fort Lauderdale Airport by a shuttle bus, and to the West Palm Beach Airport by Palm Transit bus route 42 or 44 and the Tri-Rail Shuttle Bus. }} * {{listing | name=Brightline | alt= | url=http://gobrightline.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Several departures daily | price=$20-350 roundtrip | lastedit=2024-03-30 | content=A private railroad running passenger trains since early 2018, initially between Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, with service to Miami added in the summer of 2018. An extension to Orlando International Airport from West Palm Beach was opened in 2023. Plans are underway to continue the route from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World, and eventually to Tampa. Brightline trains operate on separate tracks and stations than Amtrak and local commuter trains (which are shared with each other). }} ===By ferry=== A high speed ferry service, the '''[http://www.seakeywestexpress.com Key West Express],''' operates from the cities of [[Fort Myers]] and [[Marco Island]] with daily service to the Historic Seaport district of [[Key West]]. The ferry ride takes approximately 3½ hours and the Fort Myers vessels have a capacity exceeding 300 passengers. Amenities include outdoor sundecks, flat-screen TVs, galley service and a full bar. ==See== [[Image:Gatorland.JPG|thumb|right|Gatorland in Orlando.|206x206px]]The {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/ Kennedy Space Center]|wikidata=Q6389687|lat=|long=}} in [[Cape Canaveral]] was America's spaceport for the manned missions to the Moon and the Space Shuttle. The Visitor Complex contains spacecraft displays, two IMAX movies, the Astronaut's Hall of Fame, exhibits chronicling the history and future of space exploration, and a Space Shuttle Launch Experience.[[Image:FL-PonceInletLighthouse.jpg|thumb|The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse in [[Ponce Inlet]].|221x221px]]Florida has a long and complex history and is worth visiting for those interested in [[historical travel]]. {{marker|type=see|name=[[St. Augustine]]|wikidata=Q487988}}, founded by the Spanish in 1565, is the United States' oldest permanent European settlement. It contains a large colonial fort, multiple attractions and site detailing its history, countless restaurants and bars, and plenty of shops in its small, walkable downtown. '''[[Florida Lighthouses|Florida's Lighthouses]]''' are numerous, historic, and beautiful; take some time to visit these iconic images of the coast. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.flholocaustmuseum.org/ The Florida Holocaust Museum]|wikidata=Q884852|lat=|long=}} in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], this is one of the largest Holocaust museums in the U.S. and exhibits a box car used by Nazis to transport prisoners to extermination camps like [[Auschwitz]]. {{Marker|type=see|name=[http://www.salvadordalimuseum.org/ Salvador Dalí Museum]|wikidata=Q674427|lat=|long=}}, also in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|St. Petersburg]], is the largest collection of Dalí artwork outside of Europe. [[Sports]] are popular in the state of Florida, and particularly well-known is {{marker|type=see|name=Daytona International Speedway|wikidata=Q1179250}} near FL-92 and I-95 in [[Daytona Beach]]. The famous speedway venue is home of the number one event in stock car racing, NASCAR's Daytona 500 (February), along with other events throughout the year. '''[[Baseball in the United States#Spring Training|Spring Training baseball]]''' occurs throughout the state in late February and March, and offers the ability to watch your favorite players for discount prices (front row tickets can be purchased as low as $15-20) and in smaller, more intimate venues. {{marker|type=see|name=Sunshine Skyway Bridge|wikidata=Q2302271}} is the longest cable-stayed bridge in the world and an engineering masterpiece crossing the mouth of Tampa Bay. Two long fishing piers beside the bridge, the approaches of the previous bridge, are renowned among local fishermen and provide a less expensive alternative for saltwater fishing. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.ybor.org/ Ybor City]|wikidata=Q3572050|lat=|long=}} (pronounced ee-bor) is one of the largest party districts in the country, with countless bars, restaurants, clubs, and cigar stores, located near downtown [[Tampa]], easily accessible by car or with the free and historic streetcar service. Ybor City has a very historic and authentic feel, with a combination of Latin and Italian influence. Not just a nightlife district, however, with many cultural sights and restaurants open during the day. ===Wildlife=== {{see also|Marine life|Natural springs in Florida}} [[File:Alligator on the St Johns River.jpg|thumb|One of Florida's famous [[Dangerous animals#Alligators and crocodiles|alligators]]]] Alligators, crocodiles, manatees, bears, armadillos, dolphins, spoonbills...Florida's diverse array of habitats are home to a variety of wild animals. Alligators and their relatives can be seen in captivity at the Alligator Farm in [[Saint Augustine]], and the {{marker|type=see|name=Saint John's River|wikidata=Q1677915}}, which was expanded to better accommodate riverboats, is also an excellent place to see wildlife. An abundance of marinas and boat tours that exist in the cities north of Orlando have access to this river. It's lined with trees of various species, along with a variety of bird life. To see wild alligators, try [[Everglades National Park]] or [[Myakka River State Park]], and you can see manatees at [[Blue Spring State Park]] or [[Hernando County#Do|Weeki Wachee Springs]]. {{marker|type=see|name=Gatorland|wikidata=Q689585}} in [[Orlando]] is full of Florida's most unique animal and is one of the oldest tourist attractions in the state. Unfortunately, with all the exotic wildlife come a host of insects, especially during the May-October period. These are often encountered outdoors, especially in forested areas, during the summer and are attracted by that season's hot, humid weather, so if you visit between May and early fall, expect to encounter mosquitoes or even "lovebugs". Lovebugs, which are typically seen for just a few weeks during spring and fall, are completely harmless except for the mess they make on moving cars, and are so named because they are seen in pairs. Even more developed areas, if near forests, can attract mosquitoes. Along with the fauna is flora in its abundance (and variety) due to the warm and wet climate. === Itineraries === * '''[[U.S. Highway 1#Florida|US-1]]''' and '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|Interstate 10]]''' go through the state. * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' crosses a portion of Lake Ashby in Volusia County, Florida, before entering the rainforest. * '''[[East Central Regional Rail Trail]]''' is a recreational trail (and former rail trail) in Volusia County and the Space Coast that constitutes a part of Florida's Coast-to-Coast Trail. A paved trail, the route is popular with cyclists, as it crosses a variety of ecosystems and scenic areas including cypress groves, forests, and pine flatwoods. == Do == [[File:Spaceship Earth at night.jpg|thumb|The world-famous Spaceship Earth at Walt Disney World's [[Walt Disney World/Epcot|Epcot]] theme park.]] {{quote|If you can't find something to do in Florida, you're just boring|author=Guy Fieri|source=[https://web.archive.org/web/20170214011958/http://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do/food/dining/interview-guy-fieri-talks-new-projects-criticism-and-the-triple-d-effect/2312870 as quoted in the ''Tampa Bay Times'']}} * '''Go to the beach!''' You have numerous options here: [[Panama City Beach]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[New Smyrna Beach]], [[St. Pete Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]] and [[Siesta Key]] are some of the best. * Visit Florida's world class '''theme parks and water parks'''. **'''[[Walt Disney World]]''' - The most visited resort in the world, home to four theme parks, two water parks, and shopping, dining, and hotels galore. **[[Universal Orlando|'''Universal Orlando''']] - Disney World's biggest competitor, these three theme parks are home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. **'''SeaWorld''' in [[Orlando]] and '''Legoland''' in nearby [[Winter Haven]]. **'''Busch Gardens''' in [[Tampa]]. *Visit '''[[Everglades National Park]]''', a place like no other on Earth, and take an airboat ride through the swamps. A drive across the Everglades on US 41 is a great way to get a sense of the park's size and scenery. Check out [[Everglades City]] for great attractions. *Explore some of the more than 150 '''[http://www.floridastateparks.org/ Florida State Parks]'''. The only three-time winner of the National Recreation and Park Association's Gold Medal for state park systems. Get a Florida State Parks Annual Pass for free admission to most of the state parks, or discounted admission at [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Skyway Fishing Pier State Park]], [[Homosassa Springs|Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park]] and [[Hernando County|Weeki Wachee Springs State Park]]. *Visit the '''[http://www.seminoletribe.com/ Seminole]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} or [http://miccosukeetribe.com/ Miccosukee]{{Dead link|date=March 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native American]] reservations''' throughout the state. Here you can find out about their history and culture, try their food, and gamble in the casinos on their land, which include several Hard Rock Casinos. *'''Go [[scuba diving]] or snorkeling''' through the many coral reefs, sunken vessels, and diverse array of sea life off of Florida's coasts. The most colorful fish can be seen in the tropical waters of [[Miami]] and further south. *'''Go hiking or [[wilderness backpacking|backpacking]]''' in the many state and national parks and forests that have nature trails suitable for hiking and camping. A particularly good option is the Florida National Scenic Trail, a network of 1400 miles (2253 km) of hiking trails throughout the state. The most popular section of the trail is the 110-mile (177-km) loop encircling Lake Okeechobee. *'''Go fishing''', with some of the best fishing action in the world (both salt and freshwater). Several large and tough fighting species such as Sailfish, Tarpon, and Largemouth Bass can be found lurking in water throughout the state. *'''Take a [[Cruise ships|Cruise]]''' from the Port of [[Miami]], [[Tampa]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], or [[Cape Canaveral]] on longer cruises run by the likes of Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line or [[Disney Cruise Line]]. There are also short nightly casino cruises in various places. *'''View a rocket launch''', which are visible from virtually anywhere in the Peninsula when skies are clear. But the best viewing is up-close from [[Cape Canaveral|Cape Canaveral's]] Kennedy Space Center, [[Cocoa Beach]], [[Canaveral National Seashore]], or [[Titusville (Florida)|Titusville]]. *Check out the '''Florida State Fair''', held every February near Tampa. It hosts an exposition of counties, where each Florida county has a display and a representative to answer questions. In addition, the fair has animal displays and shows, an exhibition dedicated to citrus, various dance & cheerleading competitions, and a large selection of rides and games. ==Buy== Florida is increasingly becoming a '''major destination for shopping'''. The [[Orlando]] and [[Miami]] areas are home to a plethora of shopping malls, including many outlet malls home to shops selling brand-name products for discounted prices. There are also a large number of stores selling souvenirs, although most are not locally produced. The [[Kissimmee]] area near Orlando, especially, has a much larger number of retail stores than is typical of U.S. cities. While traditionally these shops catered largely to American families on vacation, most now serve foreign shoppers who flock to these malls to buy products significantly cheaper than at home. It's not uncommon at some shopping malls in Orlando to encounter tourists from around the globe, especially on weekdays when most Americans are working. In the last few years, [[Brazil]] has become the largest source of international visitors to the state, with many coming on shopping group tours and sometimes wearing matching shirts. Due to this, major shopping centers in the Orlando and Miami areas now offer services in [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]]. Most goods for sale in the state are subject to sales tax. In most of the state the rate is 7%, but it varies from 6-7.5% (6% state sales tax and up to 1.5% local sales tax). This rate is almost never listed on the advertised or displayed prices. ==Eat== [[File:Florida orange grove.JPG|thumb|A typical Florida orange grove near [[Sebring]].]] Florida's cuisine is a mix of many influences and its styles vary across the state from North to South. [[North Florida]] has a more Southern style; [[South Florida]] a more Caribbean one. There specifically, early Spanish and African cuisines have been given a new spin with the impact of Cuban and other Caribbean cultures, as well as from "snowbirds" escaping the Northern U.S. winters. Being on a peninsula, Florida's chefs have always had access to fresh seafood, and the long growing season provides fresh native vegetables almost year round. *'''Citrus''' is a main export, and a tourist is apt to see many roadside stands offering free samples of orange juice and fruits to be shipped or carried home. Florida also grows grapefruit, avocado, mango, papaya, passion fruit, kumquat, coconut and other tropical fruits. These often provide the base for sauces and marinades and are also used in marmalades, soups, and desserts. Official state welcome centers located on I-10, I-75, and I-95 as you enter Florida offer free samples of orange juice to all visitors, a tradition that goes back decades. *'''Strawberries''' are another popular fruit in Florida. [[Plant City]], off I-4 east of [[Tampa]], is the center of the Florida strawberry industry, where during the peak season (Feb-Mar) many roadside vendors offer flats (16 pints/12 lb/5.4 kg) and half-flats of strawberries for a small fraction of grocery store prices. Since most stands are owned by the individual farmers, the fruit sold was often harvested that morning or the day before. Fresh Florida strawberries are a treat no tourist should miss, at least if you visit in-season. *'''Grouper''' is a very popular seafood caught in Florida's coastal waters. Fresh grouper is offered in many coastal cities, where local restaurants buy it straight from fishermen, and it is often served fried or grilled on a sandwich. State inspectors have cracked down to ensure that all restaurants offering "grouper" are in fact serving grouper, and not another less expensive white fish. Snapper, snook, tarpon, marlin, and shark are other Florida fish that you can find at coastal restaurants, although they are not nearly as ubiquitous as grouper. *'''Southern food''' is available throughout most of [[North Florida|North]] and [[Central Florida]]. Barbeque is popular throughout the state, with many small "barbeque shacks" to choose from. Any platter costing over $10 ($15 for ribs) should be avoided as the less expensive restaurants are almost always best. Sweet tea is also common throughout the state, although unlike most areas in the [[South (United States of America)|South]], you have a choice between sweet and unsweet tea. Boiled peanuts, which taste nothing like a regular peanut, can be found at roadside vendors and are certainly worth trying. Dishes such as fried chicken, grits, okra, biscuits & gravy, and collard greens can also be found in restaurants and buffets throughout the state. *'''Cuban food''' is common in the [[Miami]] and [[Tampa]] areas, with the most common dishes being the Cuban sandwich, flan, and black beans & rice. *'''Local specialties''', not readily available in many other locales, include '''alligator'''. It is healthy and most say it tastes like chicken, and it is often prepared like chicken nuggets. '''Key lime pie''', found elsewhere now, is a [[Florida Keys]] invention, made from the local key limes. Florida bans indoor smoking in restaurants, but it is allowed outdoors unless the establishment prohibits it.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Drink== [[File:MIAMI-ArtDeco-rj002.jpg|thumb|The art deco hotels and clubs of Miami's [[Miami Beach/South Beach|South Beach]].]] '''Alcoholic beverages''' abound throughout the state. However, five rural counties in the northern third of the state are "dry counties", and no alcohol is sold in them. Stand-alone liquor stores are often built into strip malls, supermarkets, and pharmacies, and most grocery stores, gas stations, and convenience stores sell beer and wine. '''Bars and clubs''' are popular throughout the state, with [[Miami Beach]] being well-known for a variety of themed and upscale bars with innovative mixed drinks. Unique bars and clubs can also be found in downtown [[Orlando]] and the nearby tourist areas closer to the theme parks and resorts of [[Walt Disney World|Disney]] and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]]. No visit to Florida is complete without a cup of their famous '''orange juice'''. Like every other U.S. state, the purchase and possession age for alcohol is 21 and it's fairly well enforced. Underage drinking "stings" are frequent in most tourist areas. Florida allows smoking in bars, including those that serve food, but the bar must get less than 10% of their revenue from food.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Sleep== == Respect == If you're using a boat or other vehicle, like a jetski, in the water, it may be necessary to significantly reduce speed in areas inhabited by manatees and/or dolphins. Fast-moving vehicles can cause harm to a manatee's respiratory system. Misuse of recreation areas has caused record manatee deaths in 2021. ==Connect== [[File:Siesta Key Beach TV-001-0002.jpg|thumb|The gentle white sands of Siesta Key]] ===Internet=== Essentially all '''hotels''' offer Wi-Fi internet access for guests, and almost always for free; some even have Ethernet ports for higher-speed wired connections. Many '''businesses''' also have free Wi-Fi. This even includes some clothing/department, grocery, and convenience stores in addition to the more typical restaurants and shopping malls. All the main airports have free Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi internet access is also available at '''public libraries'''. It's almost always free for everyone with their own device (laptop, smartphone, tablet). Computers set up for internet access by patrons require a username and password to access; nearly all libraries will issue a "guest pass" for non-cardholders, though there is occasionally a nominal fee. Use of library computers is subject to time limits which vary widely. The large majority of "internet cafes" in the state are actually nominally illegal casinos, set up for online gambling in an attempt to circumvent gambling laws. Such internet cafes do not have typical computers for general use. Instead, they are usually enclosed in a slot machine-style cover with only a few buttons to press, and set up to only view gambling websites. Patrons pay for short periods of time, sometimes using odd methods like buying prepaid phone cards. After a high-profile crackdown on an operator of dozens of such internet cafes, the state banned the opening of all new internet cafes in 2013. ==Stay safe== Dialing '''911''' at any telephone will reach the emergency services (police, fire, ambulance, etc.). Any phone connected to a U.S. network, regardless of whether or not it has a paid account, must be able to dial 911 if it is connected to the network, and such calls are always free. ===Crime=== Florida has varying crime intensity from city to city. In certain areas of the large cities it may not be safe to walk alone or even in small groups at night, although these are the exceptions and most of Florida is safe for visitors. Tourist areas rarely have violent crimes, but theft is an occasional occurrence. If the area doesn't feel safe, then it probably isn't. '''Clip joint''' operators who trick visitors into paying large amounts of money for low-quality services may use local police to shake down voyagers under a Florida law that requires bar and restaurant patrons pay a disputed bill first and take it up later with their credit card company. Avoid getting involved in '''road rage''' incidents while driving in Florida as firearms frequently get involved. If someone cuts you off on the highway (a frequent occurence) just let it go.<!-- http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/04/07/17-charged-south-beach-alcohol-scam.html --> ===Weather=== {{infobox|Extreme Temperatures|''Never leave children or pets in a parked car for any length of time!'' Due to the high temperatures most of the year, the interior of a parked car can easily heat to a '''lethal''' temperature very quickly. During the summer, the interior of a parked car can reach {{convert|130|to|170|F}} in just 15 minutes, regardless of the color of the exterior or interior, nor whether the windows are open a small amount. You not only risk their lives, but '''it is illegal''' and the consequences could be thousands in fines and even imprisonment. Vehicles left containing animals or children ''will'' be broken into by police or bystanders.}} Florida has a high occurrence of '''hurricanes''', though they don't hit the state every year. You might want to check the [[Cyclones|hurricane safety]] page if you are visiting Florida during the Hurricane Season, which runs June 1 to November 30. Few places in the world experience more frequent '''lightning strikes''' than Florida. The summer thunderstorms in Florida produce frequent lightning, which kills people each year and injures many more. Stay indoors during a thunderstorm and ''never'' seek shelter under a tree. Most casualties occur on golf courses, but lightning strikes everywhere. If you must go outdoors during a storm, try to stay away from any tall object, especially trees or anything made of metal. Occasionally, thunderstorms will bring '''hail, high winds, and [[Tornado safety|tornadoes]]'''. While the historical number of tornadoes in Florida is somewhat high, the overwhelming majority have occurred during hurricanes (Hurricane Jeanne alone spawned over 200 tornadoes in Florida). While some do occur during winter cold fronts and summer thunderstorms, 99% of them are weak (F-0/F-1). Thus, while statistics may suggest otherwise, tornadoes are not a big hazard in Florida. Watch where and when you swim. While the beaches are great they sometimes harbor '''rip currents, bacteria, and jellyfish'''. Always check with the lifeguard stand or ranger station before heading in if no one is in the water or if the waves are rough. '''Red tide''' is the name for harmful algal blooms that can occur on Florida's Gulf coast. They cause fish kills and water discoloration, and release toxins into the air that cause respiratory irritation. People with severe or chronic respiratory conditions, such as emphysema or asthma, should avoid areas where red tide is occurring. Swimming in water afflicted by red tide can cause skin and eye irritation and is not recommended. Heavy rain can make the roads dangerous. Although many highway drainage systems in Florida are well-designed by necessity, it can be almost impossible to see through your windshield during the worst rainstorms. Light and torrential rain can be a hundred feet apart, so when you hit heavy rain, it's common for vehicular traffic to slow to speeds as low as 20 mph if necessary, even on major interstates. However, there are a few drivers who ignore the protocol and drive fast anyway. Even though it's common, it's illegal to drive with hazard lights on in the rain. Use them only if you are completely stopped. ===Wildlife=== {{main|Dangerous animals}} '''Alligators''' are a threat throughout Florida (even in inland areas like [[Orlando]] and the [[Walt Disney World]]<!-- http://www.cnn.com/2016/06/15/us/alligator-attacks-child-disney-florida/index.html -->), and it should be assumed that they are present in ''all'' stagnant or slow moving freshwater. ''Never'' swim in any lakes or rivers unless signs tell you swimming is safe, and beware when approaching the water anywhere. Do not allow children or pets to approach the water's edge. '''Bears''' and '''Florida panthers''', common before the arrival of Europeans in Florida, are now both endangered in the state. If you do see either, back off slowly or keep your distance, and make yourself appear larger by waving your arms above your head. When hiking, make lots of noise to avoid startling an animal, and always keep small children close to you. Both species are endangered and protected under Florida law, and harassing or injuring one (even in a vehicle accident) will result in prosecution. [[Volusia County]] is known for a high number of '''shark attacks''', but they can occur anywhere in the state, so be careful when surfing. Even so, the number of attacks are less than 50, with a fatal attack every 2-3 years, amongst ''millions'' of visitors and residents who swim in the ocean. Swimming near dusk and dawn is the most hazardous. '''Lionfish''' are a poisonous and invasive fish that are now present on reefs throughout Florida. They can be identified by their red-and white striped bodies and poisonous spines. Stings are extremely painful and often require hospitalization. Due to their status as an invasive species, any sighting of lionfish should be reported to wildlife management authorities immediately. '''Jellyfish''' are also sometimes common at the beaches, and '''venomous snakes''' can be found year round across the state, so it is good to be wary of both. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== A large number of countries have consulates in and around [[Miami#Consulates|Miami]], with a much smaller number in [[Jacksonville#Consulates|Jacksonville]], [[Orlando#Consulates|Orlando]] and [[Tampa#Consulates|Tampa]]. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are available only in [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]. ==See also== * '''[[British Florida]]''' Although Florida was under Spanish control for most of its history prior to U.S. control, there was a brief period of 20 years during which it was a British colony. During British rule in the region, it was divided into two colonies: East Florida governed from St. Augustine, and West Florida governed from Pensacola. * '''[[Spanish Florida]]''' Prior to its annexation by the United States, Florida was a colony of Spain. From the founding of St. Augustine in 1565 to the collapse of their empire in the 1820s, the Spanish built forts, missions, and attempted to settle the subtropical, humid peninsula despite competition from other European powers. * '''[[Seminole Wars]]''', not as well known as the other wars in which the United States participated in the 19th century, were a significant development of the Indian Removal Wars. Conflicts between British, American, Spanish, and Seminole participants date back to the 18th century, but the most coordinated fighting took place between the Napoleonic Wars and the American Civil War. * '''[[Summer in Florida]]''' is a popular time to visit, for example for its theme parks, because it's when most North Americans have vacations. However, the climate during this period can make travel more complicated, unless your travels are carefully managed * '''[[East Central Regional Rail Trail]]''' * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' ==Go next== * '''[[Alabama]]''' - North of the Panhandle is Alabama, with the historic port of [[Mobile]] and popular resort town [[Gulf Shores]] a short drive away from this region of Florida. * '''[[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]''' - Heading out of Florida to the north is Georgia, with the historic city of [[Savannah]] and the resort beaches of [[Jekyll Island]] close by. * '''[[Caribbean]]''' - The islands of the Caribbean are accessible by boat and plane from across Florida and offer a variety of both relaxing and adventure travel amidst a tropical paradise. For those interested in visiting the '''[[Bahamas]]''' (as the nearest country), many owners of small boats will make the day-long trip to the island chain, and several small airlines offer flights for under $70 each way. Other popular destinations in the Caribbean that are further from Florida by boat are '''[[Dominican Republic]], [[Puerto Rico]]''', and the '''[[Virgin Islands]]'''. * '''[[Colombia]]''' and '''[[Venezuela]]''' are the nearest countries in '''[[South America]]''' that are 3-4 hours away by plane, on a direct flight from [[South Florida]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]]. * '''[[Cancun]]''' and '''[[Merida (Mexico)|Merida]]''' on the [[Yucatán_and_the_South|Yucatán Peninsula]] are the nearest cities in MExico from [[Miami International Airport|Miami]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]] that are a 2 hr 15 min away by plane. To go further into Mexico, [[Benito Juárez International Airport| Mexico City]] is 3 hr 40 min away from Miami or Orlando. * '''[[Central America]]''' is 2-3 hours on a plane from Miami, Ft Lauderdale and Orlando. <br />{{usableregion}} {{geo|28.1|-82.0|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|United_States}} {{related|Tornado_safety}} g2dg8wxq7t6c7htsb3k5md8i65lg0jz 5288909 5288907 2026-06-06T17:03:24Z Anyone150 1516949 /* See also */ 5288909 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lummus_Park_Florida_banner.jpg}} {{otheruses}}'''Florida''' is the southernmost state in the continental [[United States of America]]. Known as "The Sunshine State", over a century ago it became a popular winter destination for the well-to-do from colder climates; it has grown to become the second-most visited state in the nation. Tourists have long been drawn to Florida by its white-sand beaches and unique and diverse cities. Since the mid-twentieth century, world-class theme parks and attractions have become a top draw as well. In the 21st century, Florida has become the preferred retirement destination for rich Americans from all over the country. The state's roots in agriculture are still relevant, with oranges being a chief export. Untouched natural landscapes teeming with wildlife exist in vast areas, sometimes very close to cities, and there are miles of rivers and trails for the intrepid visitor. Some of Florida's best secrets are charming small towns and other places in secluded locations, away from the crowded tourist areas but certainly worth seeing. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Florida Static Map.png | regionmaptext=Regions of Florida | regionmapsize=410px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[First Coast]] | region1color=#c68d98ff | region1items= | region1description=The end of the St. Johns River is the location of [[Jacksonville]], one of the largest cities in the state, and some coastal towns including America's oldest city, [[St. Augustine]]. | region2name=[[Volusia County]] | region2color=#a9a567ff | region2items= | region2description=A beach county, also known as the "Fun Coast," frequented by snowbirds, [[Inland Florida]] residents, and fans of the Daytona 500. | region3name=[[Space Coast]] | region3color=#c39dc3ff | region3items= | region3description=The [[Kennedy Space Center]], [[Cape Canaveral]], and some coastal towns to the south are within this region, which is synonymous with Brevard County. | region4name=[[Treasure Coast]] | region4color=#ffd0d0ff | region4items= | region4description=Between Miami and the rest of the Atlantic coast, there are some medium-sized cities here, but it is still more off the beaten path than the counties to the south. | region5name=[[Greater Miami]] | region5color=#4da9c4ff | region5items=[[Palm Beach County]], [[Broward County]], [[Miami-Dade County]] | region5description=Miami and its surroundings (called the "Gold Coast") are known for their ethnic diversity, proximity to Latin America, and tourist appeal along the many miles of beautiful beaches. | region6name=[[Florida Keys]] | region6color=#d5dc76ff | region6items= | region6description=A chain of islands off the southern tip of the peninsula, and one of the state's main tourist destinations with its breathtaking tropical beauty. | region7name=[[Florida West Coast]] | region7color=#80bb89ff | region7items=[[Big Bend Coast]], [[Tampa Bay Area]], [[Southwest Florida]] | region7description=Particularly in the north, more rural than its eastern counterpart, the western coast is known for its Tampa-St. Petersburg metro area and many beautiful beaches in the southwest of the state, with the [[Everglades]] separating the region from Miami. | region8name=[[Florida Panhandle]] | region8color=#d56d76ff | region8items=[[Emerald Coast]], [[Forgotten Coast]], [[Middle Florida]], [[West Florida]] | region8description=The Florida panhandle is a "Deep South" region of antebellum plantations, red hills, and white sand beaches. Cities include the state capital of Tallahassee, Destin, Pensacola, and Panama City Beach. | region9name=[[Inland Florida]] | region9color=#d8a55eff | region9items=[[North Central Florida]], [[Greater Orlando]], [[Lake County (Florida)|Lake County]], [[Polk County (Florida)|Polk County]], [[Florida Heartland]] | region9description=A few cities dot this mostly rural region, including the college town of [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], the theme parks of [[Orlando]], and small towns throughout the rest. }} ==Cities== Below is a selection of some of Florida's most notable cities. Other cities can be found under their specific regions. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tallahassee]]|url=|lat=30.455|long=-84.253333|wikidata=Q37043}} – The state capital and thriving college town home to three schools, including Florida State<!-- capital top, alphabetize the rest --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Fort Lauderdale]]|url=|lat=26.133333|long=-80.15|wikidata=Q165972}} – The "Venice of America" with its expansive canal system, also known for beaches and boating *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Jacksonville]]|url=|lat=30.336944|long=-81.661389|wikidata=Q16568}} – Sprawling city encompassing large beaches, world-class museums, and award-winning golf *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Miami]]|url=|lat=25.775278|long=-80.208889|wikidata=Q8652}} – The center of Caribbean and Latin American culture, famed for its beachfront nightclubs *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Orlando]]|url=|lat=28.415833|long=-81.298889|wikidata=Q49233}} – The theme park capital of the world also features exciting dining, a lively arts scene, and ample recreation *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pensacola]]|url=|lat=30.433333|long=-87.2|wikidata=Q486306}} – White-sand beaches draw tourists to this town of ancient shipwrecks and military fighter jets *{{marker|type=city|name=[[St. Augustine]]|url=|lat=29.894722|long=-81.314444|wikidata=Q487988}} – The oldest city in the country is home to two more-than 400-year-old Spanish forts, restaurants, and shops *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tampa]]|url=|lat=27.968056|long=-82.476389|wikidata=Q49255}} – Large Gulf Coast metro area home to bustling nightlife as well as famed natural sites *{{marker|type=city|name=[[West Palm Beach]]|url=|lat=26.709722|long=-80.064167|wikidata=Q163749}} – Ritzy town home to the rich & famous, featuring high-end shopping and beautiful beaches ==Other destinations== [[File:Eudocimus albus (foraging).jpg|thumb|American white ibis at the Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area in [[Everglades National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Amelia Island]]|url=|lat=30.615556|long=-81.453889|wikidata=Q461578}} – Historic island at the north end of the state, with excellent golf resorts and a lively downtown *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Biscayne National Park]]|url=|lat=25.469444|long=-80.186111|wikidata=Q866080}} – A massive marine park protecting a wide range of animals and coral reefs *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Canaveral National Seashore]]|url=|lat=28.7675|long=-80.776944|wikidata=Q5031230}} – The longest stretch of unspoiled beach on the Atlantic coast, near rocket launches *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Everglades National Park]]|url=|lat=25.3125|long=-80.6875|wikidata=Q274131}} – Massive, vital, and delicate ecosystem protecting a great variety of plants and animals *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Florida Keys]]|url=|lat=24.666944|long=-81.544167|wikidata=Q537749}} – Chain of islands stretching into the Caribbean, offering tropical scenery and a laid-back lifestyle *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gulf Islands National Seashore]]|url=|lat=30.364444|long=-86.9675|wikidata=Q3120743}} – 12 islands along the Gulf Coast, featuring excellent beaches and sea turtles *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ocala National Forest]]|url=|lat=29.173611|long=-81.821667|wikidata=Q2013302}} – Extensive inland forest giving visitors a taste of old Florida charm *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Walt Disney World]]|url=|lat=28.385233|long=-81.563874|wikidata=Q206859}} – The "happiest place on earth", encompassing 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, and countless other amenities There are also articles on aspects of the state's history: [[Spanish Florida]] and [[Seminole Wars]]. ==Understand== While Florida is considered to be part of the [[South (United States of America)|South]], it originated not as a British colony, but as a Spanish one. As a result, the state has a unique history. Although Florida was a founding member of the Confederate States of America, and like other Southern states shared the experience of slavery and racial segregation during its history, today, Florida is a '''very diverse''' state, and contains a number of regions with slight cultural differences of their own that contribute to the state's diversity. Therefore, no one accent dominates in the speech of its residents, and it's often said that Florida is the only state that gets more "Southern" the farther ''north'' you go, and that is indeed true in a cultural sense. For a long time, Florida had been a swing state in presidential elections, almost evenly divided between Republicans and Democrats. However, a large influx of retirees in the 21st century has swung the political balance in favor of the Republicans as of the 2020s. ===History=== {{see also|Spanish Florida|British Florida}} Florida was inhabited by [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native Americans]] for over 13,000 years before the arrival of European explorers, colonists and slavers. It is estimated that there were some 350,000 inhabitants, of many tribes, when the Spanish explorer '''Juan Ponce de León''' arrived in 1513 in search of, according to legend, the Fountain of Youth. The first European settlement dates back to the 1560s with [[St. Augustine]], established in 1565, holding the distinction of being the oldest permanent European settlement in what is now the United States. However, this early settlement did not lead to the same level of rapid colonization that took place in the British colonies to the north, as the climate made large-scale settlement, especially inland, difficult for Europeans who were used to milder climates. Attempted settlements by Europeans, such as the [[New Smyrna Beach]] colony owned by a British man who employed former inhabitants of the Balearic Islands, were not always successful as challenges of climate and disease took their toll on the residents, who themselves ultimately moved to [[St. Augustine]]. From this time onward the state would not see large-scale economic and population expansion until Florida's statehood in the 19th century, when agriculture &mdash; including notably orange trees &mdash; and later tourism would achieve important roles in the state's economy. Along with the climate challenges, battles and competing claims for the region posed a challenge to the region's settlers. However, many Africans and African-Americans moved to Florida during the territory's early years because King Charles of Spain had issued a royal proclamation freeing all slaves who fled to [[Spanish Florida]], if they converted to Catholicism. {{Infobox|Shooting for the Stars|A source of pride and joy in Florida is its outsize role in the history of [[space exploration]]. Cape Canaveral began to be used for missile launches in 1949, and following President John F. Kennedy's vow to put American astronauts on the Moon before the end of the 1960s, early space flights took place there on converted missiles. The most important launches by NASA, including the Apollo 11 moon launch watched around the world in 1969, have taken place at the John F. Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral. Unfortunately, however, to make way for the creation of the space center, many residents of the Cape Canaveral region, including some African-Americans, were required by the government to leave Cape Canaveral, and little remains of the settlements that once existed in the Cape Canaveral region.}} Native Americans, including members of the Calusa tribe, fought effectively to defend their tribal lands from European colonization of the region; therefore it was some time before Europeans established colonies. However, once Europeans took control of the Florida region, oppression and killing of '''Native Americans''' &mdash; often as a result of war or disease &mdash; was tragic as it was in many other regions of the Americas. Following substantial depopulation of the state's native tribes, the Seminole tribe moved in and established themselves in Florida in the 18th century, though several conflicts between the Spanish, attempting to maintain Florida, and Americans attempting to annex the region, made an already disputed territory's political situation complex for Native Americans and settlers. Native Americans living in Florida fought hard and continued to guard their independence after Spanish Florida was ceded to the United States in 1821. The new territory of the U.S. was a slave plantation economy, much like the rest of the South at the time; the Seminoles gladly welcomed runaway slaves and accepted them into their tribe. However, after the [[Seminole Wars|Second Seminole War]], almost the entire tribe was deported west of the Mississippi River as part of the [[Trail of Tears]]. Florida was admitted to the Union as a slave state in 1845, but seceded and joined the '''Confederacy''' with the rest of the South in 1861. Largely untouched by the [[American Civil War]], the state enforced Jim Crow segregation laws against its then very large (approximately 44%) black population for a century after the Confederates' defeat. By the early 20th century, Florida had more lynchings per capita than any other state. However, there were three '''20th-century migrations''' that fundamentally changed the character of Florida, to the extent that many people no longer consider much of the state to be culturally Southern: the move of one-fifth of the state's African-American population to the Northern United States as part of the Great Migration during the first decades of the 20th century; the arrival of an increasing number of white retirees from the North after the spread of air conditioning in the 1950s; and the arrival of several waves of Cuban immigrants after the victory of Fidel Castro in 1959, who established themselves primarily in South Florida, particularly [[Miami-Dade County|Dade County]]. Florida has also seen major influxes of Latino immigrants from Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Central and South America, and Mexico, and there have also been many Haitian immigrants. ===Culture=== [[File:The Call-Collins House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida (7157983334).jpg|thumb|The Call-Collins Plantation House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida ]] Florida is geographically the southernmost of the contiguous United States, and it is a '''unique blend''' of societies. The [[Florida Panhandle]], much of [[North Florida]], rural areas of [[Central Florida]], and the [[Florida Heartland]] remain part of the cultural region of [[South (United States of America)|the South]], where you will find traditional southern cooking, entertainment, dialect, and lifestyles, much as you would expect in states like [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] or [[Alabama]]. Generally, the further south you go in the state, the more unlike the South it seems, and although Southern culture can be found in every region of the state, it is not always prevalent. Cities such as [[Tampa]] and [[Orlando]] offer the feel of the South, alongside many other cultures. There are a lot of Southerners in these areas, but also many people who are from other areas like the [[Midwest]] or the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. [[Miami]], on the other hand, is unique in that it feels like a cross between an American metropolis and a major Latin American city (like [[Rio de Janeiro|Rio]] or [[São Paulo]]). There are some Seminole Native American reservations and villages throughout southern Florida, namely in the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]], and their indigenous culture can be experienced by visiting a shop and browsing arts and crafts. The southernmost [[Florida Keys]] offer yet another flavor, full of the casual, slow-paced atmosphere of beach life. In short, Florida is a full-fledged region of the [[United States]] in its own right.[[File:Miami Beach FL Arch Dist Collins Ave down south01.jpg|thumb|267x267px|A view south on Collins Avenue in the [[Miami Beach/South Beach|Miami Beach Architectural District]]]] Much of the southern part of Florida is inhabited by people of Hispanic or Latino origin. The region that is substantially to in places majority Hispanic or Latino extends north to Orlando. There are large Cuban and Puerto Rican populations in [[Miami]] and the south side of [[Greater Orlando]], respectively. The white population is higher to the north, and by the northern border with Georgia and Alabama, the Hispanic/Latino population is very low. The Black or African-American population is primarily on the mainland and throughout the state, with historically Black communities and history in the [[Daytona Beach]] metro area, [[Jacksonville]], and Gadsden County in the Panhandle. The ethnic diversity of Florida, while not particularly cosmopolitan outside of certain urban centers, has contributed substantially to the culture, with Spanish spoken in some areas, but in the north, a tendency toward American cuisine and English language exists with few alternatives and much of the population of this region are known by outsiders as "rednecks." There are smaller communities of ethnic minorities including those of Anglo- or Franco-Caribbean or Middle Eastern origin, but these have a smaller impact on the state's culture than the largest ethnic groups. Due to a combination of factors, despite the state's high urbanization relative to many other Southern states, it does not lean as "liberal" as many comparably urban and ethnically diverse states in the North. The state is considered to be on the tipping point between left and right, but despite the prominently right-wing government that scraped through the 2018 elections, the state as a whole is middle of the road for the U.S. Orlando, state capital [[Tallahassee]], [[Fort Lauderdale]] and college town [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] lean left while most of Miami, [[Tampa]]-[[St Petersburg]], southwest Florida, parts of the east coast and rural inland and Panhandle lean conservative when compared with demographically similar communities in other parts of the country. However, almost all regions of the state are politically diverse. ===Landscape=== Florida's '''coastline is world class''', with several gorgeous beaches, bays, and estuaries. The Floridian landscape is extremely flat, however, with lakes and wetlands scattered throughout most of the state, though a mixture of ecosystems distract from the lack of topography. The only exceptions are parts of Highlands, Polk, Lake, and a few other counties in the center of the state where rolling hills are common. The highest point in the state is the {{ft|345}} Britton Hill on the Panhandle, and the {{ft|298}} Iron Mountain in Polk County is the highest point on the Peninsula. Florida's cities tend to be big, sprawling, and well-developed, but not as close to each other as an atlas might imply. Despite being a densely-populated state, there are fortunately still several expanses of wilderness left, although these are often near or between populated urban areas. Some rural parts of the state grow citrus and sugar cane, but farmland tends to be in regions outside the usual tourist areas. The [[Florida Panhandle]] and most of [[North Florida]] consist of farmland and pine trees, but as you travel south, you'll see more wetlands and urbanization, culminating at the Everglades in the far south of the state near Miami. The [[Florida Keys]] are a small chain of tropical islands with their own unique geography. ===Climate=== [[Image:Frances 2004-09-05 1815Z.jpg|thumb|293x293px|right|Hurricane Frances makes landfall on the morning of September 5, 2004 near Stuart. Its impact, however, was felt throughout Central Florida and most of Florida's east coast.]] Florida is known around the world for warm and sunny weather and this has led to the state being a major tourist destination. Florida has the mildest winters on the US mainland, and retirees and temporary residents known as "snowbirds", flock to the state in the cold season. Coastal areas experience gentle breezes during the summer, and the beach is usually the coolest place to be. While those coastal breezes are a welcome relief from the scorching temperatures, they are also the cause of a well-known Florida weather feature: '''thunderstorms'''. While the storms are often brief, they are common, and anyone visiting Florida during the rainy season (mid-June to September) should plan a few indoor activities in the afternoons as a backup. Florida's thunderstorms occur every day during the rainy season and typically form 20-30mi (32-48km) inland and either move toward the center of the state or toward the coast. Due to this, rain can be occurring just a few miles inland from the coast, while those at the beach experience a beautiful day. While the storms cool the air, bringing a welcome though often short relief to stifling temperatures, many produce considerable amounts of '''dangerous lightning''' and some bring hail, high winds of 50 mph (80 km/h) or more, and tornadoes. See the "stay safe" section for thunderstorm safety. Many tourist areas, such as [[Walt Disney World]], have multiple attractions available even during downpours. The spring is the driest time of the year, leading to wildfires nearly every May and early June. The six-month '''[[Hurricane safety|hurricane]] season''' runs from June 1 through November 30 and Floridians have learned to be ready when a storm threatens the area. If you plan on visiting during the months of June through November and especially during the peak of the hurricane season from August through October, stay aware of the news and weather advisories. Information is available from the [http://www.nhc.noaa.gov National Hurricane Center]. Cyclones are unlikely but possible in the month of May. From June through October is the hot and wet season in Florida. High temperatures are often in the 80s to 90s F (30-32 C) and lows in the 70s (24 C). Heat indices typically range between {{F|75}} and {{F|97}}, but on some of the hottest days, the heat indices can climb to {{F|107}} and not go below {{F|80}} at night. The Bermuda High pumps in hot and unstable tropical air from the Bahamas and Gulf of Mexico, which help create the daily thundershowers that are typical in summer months in Florida. Intense but very brief downpours are common in summer in much of Florida. Normally, the wet season starts to fade by early November in northern Florida and reaches southern Florida by late November. From December through April the weather in much is Florida is mild and often dry. The dry season (or winter) is often the driest and most sunny season in Florida, Average high temperatures range from the low 60's in northern Florida to the mid 70's F in far southern Florida. Overnight lows fall to the middle 40's in northern Florida to near 60 F in far southern Florida. A few times each winter, a strong cold front may drop temperatures to near freezing across northern Florida, though in many years there is no freeze at all from central Florida southward. In the driest months, Florida often has long periods of rain-less weather, and by April drought conditions with brush fires and water restrictions are sometimes in place. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitflorida.com/ Visit Florida] website ==Talk== '''English''' is the official language of the state. However, [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]] is the native language of approximately 20% of Florida residents, and the further south you go, the more Spanish speakers there will be. In some parts of [[South Florida]], Spanish is the preferred language in everyday activities. [[Miami]] is most notable, where nearly 80% of residents do not speak English as their native language and 30% do not speak any English at all. [[Tampa]] also has a sizable Spanish-speaking population, and neighborhoods where it is almost exclusively spoken. Like anywhere where there is a large presence of another language, expect Spanish words or expressions used or calqued into everyday English. Gullah, a distinctive English-based creole, is spoken by some African-American communities along the northeastern coast, near the border with Georgia. Native-born non-Hispanic Floridians from the northern part of the state will usually speak with a Southern accent. However, after the migration of millions of Americans from all over the country to the central and southern parts of the state, the Southern dialect is becoming diluted with other accents. Residents of Miami often speak in a distinctive accent with strong influences from Cuban Spanish. ==Get in== [[Image:Orlando International Airport hotel rooms.jpg|227x227px|thumb|A full-service Marriott hotel is directly within Orlando International Airport]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Air travel in the United States}} *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Orlando International Airport]]|wikidata=Q929859}} ({{IATA|MCO}}) - your choice airport for [[Disney World]] and the other attractions in [[Central Florida]]. Located south of downtown [[Orlando]], this airport offers tons of car rentals and free shuttles to Disney and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]] for visitors. Being centrally located it serves as a hub or focus city for Jetblue, Frontier, and Southwest Airlines. There are international connections from South America, Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, Europe and the Middle East. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Miami International Airport]]|wikidata=Q127530}} ({{IATA|MIA}}) - the biggest airport for travel in [[South Florida]], it's the best option for trips to the [[Everglades]] or [[Miami|Miami's]] beaches. The airport is a hub for American Airlines and the most popular entry point with a wide variety of flights from Europe, South America, Central America, the Caribbean, Cuba and Mexico. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Tampa#By plane|Tampa International Airport]]|wikidata=Q571536}} ({{IATA|TPA}}) - serves the Gulf Coast, namely the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area. There are direct flights offered from all over the U.S. and from a number of international destinations in Canada, Cuba, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Fort Lauderdale#By plane|Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport]]|wikidata=Q635361}} ({{IATA|FLL}}) - the fourth-largest airport in Florida, and another valid option to consider with many domestic low-fare carriers such as Allegiant, JetBlue, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Jacksonville#By plane|Jacksonville International Airport]]|wikidata=Q1431579}} ({{IATA|JAX}}) - primary airport for travel in [[North Florida]], serving [[Amelia Island]] and historic [[St. Augustine]]. Other large airports can be found in [[Pensacola]], [[Fort Myers]], [[Tallahassee]], [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]]/[[Clearwater]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Sarasota]], [[Key West]], [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], [[Melbourne (Florida)|Melbourne]], and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]]. There are many more airports throughout Florida that may get you closer to your destination; watch for these smaller airports while researching your destination. ===By car=== [[File:Brickell skyline 2012.jpg|thumb|The skyline of [[Miami/Brickell|Brickell, Miami]]|240x240px]] Three [[Driving in the United States|Interstate highways]] connect Florida with adjacent states: * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|Interstate 10 (I-10)]]''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and passes through the center of the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]] and across [[North Florida]] until its terminus in Jacksonville. Interstate 10 is most convenient for travelers from [[Louisiana]], [[Texas]], and areas farther west. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' also enters Florida from Georgia and passes through the center of the state until the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area, after which it follows the Gulf of Mexico coast (10-20 mi/16-32 km inland) to [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], where it heads due east across the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]] to Fort Lauderdale. Interstate 75 is most convenient for travelers arriving from [[Atlanta]] and the [[Midwest]]. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] just north of [[Jacksonville]] and parallels the Atlantic coast, never more than 25 miles inland, until its terminus south of downtown [[Miami]]. Interstate 95 provides the most convenient route for people from the East Coast, [[New England]], eastern parts of [[Canada]]. Jacksonville, [[Daytona Beach]], and the Miami-[[Fort Lauderdale]]-[[West Palm Beach]] area are all serviced by I-95, with access to [[Orlando]] provided via Interstate 4. * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''I-4''' does not cross any state line but is still called an interstate. It crosses the state from Gulf to East coast, passing from Tampa in the west through Orlando and ending at the western boundary of Daytona Beach. It curves to the north on its easternmost segment. The road, particularly on the north side of Orlando, is notoriously dangerous, and the frequent thunderstorms in addition to ongoing road work don't help with this concern. The speeds on this road are high and speed limits are ignored by most, but as a quick route there are few comparable alternatives and it does a good job of connecting the suburbs. Additional major highways entering Florida include: * [[File:US 1.svg|link=US Route 1#Florida|22px]] '''[[US Route 1|US-1]]''' enters Florida north of Jacksonville and snakes along the east coast between Interstate 95 and the Intracoastal Waterway/Atlantic Ocean. Unlike I-95, US 1 continues past Miami and is routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US-27''' enters Florida from western Georgia and provides access to the state capital, [[Tallahassee]], before routing through mostly rural areas of the peninsula. Down the center of the state between Florida's Turnpike and Miami, US 27 is a primary trucking route, and as such this route can be a hassle while dealing with heavy traffic. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US-98''' enters Florida near Pensacola and remains close to the Gulf of Mexico coast until the Panhandle meets the Florida peninsula at the "Big Bend" area. Unlike I-10 to the north, which runs through the interior of the Panhandle away from the coast, US 98 provides a scenic drive and convenient access to the beaches. After leaving the Panhandle, US 98 runs diagonally down the peninsula to West Palm Beach through primarily rural areas. * [[File:US 231.svg|22px]] '''US-231''' enters Florida from Alabama and crosses the Panhandle north-south to its southern terminus at [[Panama City Beach]]. US 231 provides convenient access to the Panhandle from the Midwest via it connection with Interstate 65 in [[Montgomery]]. * [[File:US 301.svg|22px]] '''I-301''' enters Florida just north of Jacksonville and was once the main route from the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. It is a very scenic alternative to I-95 with a lot less traffic. Exiting I-95 at Santee, [[South Carolina]] motorists can follow US 301 through Georgia and into Florida and connect to I-95 again in Jacksonville for Atlantic coast destinations, or continue on to join I-75 at [[Ocala]] for Tampa and the Gulf coast. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to Florida from neighboring states and from the major airports in the states. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''[[Florida#By_bus_2|By bus]]'' under ''Get around'' for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By train=== [[Rail travel in the United States|Amtrak]] has two services to Florida: *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/auto-train.html Amtrak Auto Train]''' ''(Trains #52 & 53)'' carries passengers and automobiles between [[Lorton]], [[Virginia]] and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford, Florida]] (north of [[Orlando]]), effectively serving as a car-rail link to Florida from the [[Washington, D.C.]] metro area. This train makes no stops between Lorton & Sanford and is a way to cut back on the extra mileage and wear and tear on the car. *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/silver-service-palmetto-train.html Amtrak Silver Service]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92 and #97 & 98 respectively)'' are two routes that both begin in [[New York City]] and end in [[Miami]]. The trains follow the same route heading to Florida, except in [[North Carolina|North]] and [[South Carolina]]. Within the state, the trains run the same line from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Kissimmee]]. There, they split again, and the Silver Star (Trains #91 & 92) diverges to head west towards [[Lakeland]] and [[Tampa]] while the Silver Meteor (Trains #97 & 98) continues south towards [[Winter Haven]]. Both routes meet again further south and serve the rest of the stations along Florida's east coast to Miami. ===By boat=== Florida is possibly the largest state for [[Cruise ships|cruise ship]] vacations in the United States. [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Tampa]], [[Miami]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] are all popular starting ports, with cruises heading throughout the [[Caribbean]]. There are also many short-term casino cruises that depart from [[Pinellas County]] and around [[South Florida]]. [http://www.ferryexpress.com/ Ferry service]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is also available to and from the [[Bahamas]], with service between [[Fort Lauderdale]] and [[Freeport (Bahamas)|Freeport]], and between Miami and [[Bimini]]. ==Get around== [[File:Overseas Highway bridge.jpg|thumb|The Overseas Highway to Key West.]] ===By car=== Traveling by car is the most common and most convenient way to get around the state for travelers and locals alike. For the traveler car rental agencies are abound in Florida and many are available at every major airport. [[Orlando]], in particular, is known as the "Car Rental Capital of the World". With Florida being the most visited state in the US, car rental rates here are among (if not) the lowest rates in the country due to sheer volume. '' '''Florida's major highways include:''' '' * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 4 (I-4)''' crosses diagonally from [[Tampa]], heads east through [[Plant City]] and [[Lakeland]], then continues northeast past [[Kissimmee]], [[Walt Disney World]], and [[Orlando]], before ending at Interstate 95 near [[Daytona Beach]]. Interstate 4 is the most travelled highway in Florida and due to the large volume of traffic, high speeds (70 mph,112 km/h outside of urban areas), construction, and large number of tourists it is also the most dangerous highway in the state, in terms of the number of accidents. * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] & [[File:US 90.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|I-10]]''' and '''US-90''' enter Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and travels across the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]], past [[Tallahassee]] and [[Lake City]], and through rural [[North Florida]] to its terminus at I-95 in Jacksonville. US Hwy 90 straddles I-10 through the northern Florida Panhandle, going through the cities and towns as a local surface street/highway while I-10 goes straight through bypassing the cities and towns. US Hwy 90 continues past the I-95 corridor in downtown Jacksonsville and ends at FL A1A at Jacksonville Beach. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' enters Florida from Georgia and runs south through the center of the peninsula past [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] and [[Ocala]] before crossing just east of Tampa, where it then parallels the Gulf coast past [[Bradenton]], [[Sarasota]], [[Fort Myers]], and [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], after which it travels due east across the [[Everglades]] (a section known as 'Alligator Alley') to the Miami suburbs. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]], north of [[Jacksonville]], and travels down the Atlantic coast past [[St. Augustine]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Vero Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] before ending at US 1 just south of downtown [[Miami]]. * [[File:Florida's_Turnpike_shield.svg|link=https://www.floridasturnpike.com|22px]] The '''[https://floridasturnpike.com/ Florida Turnpike]''' is a toll road that runs from I-75 south of Ocala, through Orlando, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale before ending south of Miami. It provides the easiest access to Orlando and southeast Florida for persons entering the state via I-75 or I-10. * [[File:I-275.svg|22px]] '''I-275''' is a secondary Interstate that runs from I-75 north of the Tampa area, past downtown Tampa and [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], where it crosses the 5.5-mile-long (8.8km), 193 foot-tall (58.8m) Sunshine Skyway Bridge before it rejoins I-75 south of Bradenton. Interstate 75 ''does not'' provide access to these areas, it instead passes through rural and suburban areas 10 miles east of Tampa. * [[File:US 1.svg|22px]] '''[[US Route 1#Florida|US-1]]''' is a historic and scenic highway that travels down the Atlantic coast between I-95 and the ocean before being routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:Florida A1A.svg|22px]] '''FL-A1A''' runs parallel to US Hwy 1 as the coastal highway along the east coast. It serves the beach communities as a local street (such as Collins Ave in Miami Beach or Ocean Dr in Ft Lauderdale) in the offshore islands/keys along the entire east coast. It is fragmented and does not run continuously from South Beach to Fernadina Beach. It runs concurrent on US Hwy 1 in places where it is not a separate road. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US 27''' is a well-traveled alternative to Florida's Turnpike and runs from Miami, along Lake Okeechobee and through the mostly-rural [[Florida Heartland|Heartland]] of Florida before continuing through Ocala, Gainesville, and Tallahassee. * [[File:US 41.svg|22px]] '''US 41''' runs west from Miami on a scenic 2-lane journey through the Everglades, and then travels along the Gulf Coast, around the east side of Tampa Bay, and north into Georgia. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US 98''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] at Pensacola and travels a very scenic route along the Gulf Coast of the Panhandle, after which it continues diagonally across the peninsula to its terminus in West Palm Beach. ===By plane=== Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state especially between South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) and the Panhandle (Pensacola and Tallahassee) while others will be relatively short (Ft Lauderdale to Orlando). '''[http://www.atlanticairlines.com/ Atlantic Airlines]''', '''[https://www.allegiantair.com Allegiant]''' (Key west to St Petersburg & Sanford); '''[https://www.flybreeze.com Breeze]''', '''[http://www.aa.com American Airlines/American Eagle]''', '''[https://www.flyfrontier.com Frontier]''', '''[https://www.JetBlue.com JetBlue]''', and '''[https://www.southwest.com/ Southwest]''' offer intrastate flights between cities in Florida. ===By bus=== The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There is fairly frequent service from Orlando (as a 'de-facto' hub) to Naples (via Tampa Bay, Ft Myers); South Florida (W Palm Peach, Ft Lauderdale, Miami); Jacksonville (via Daytona Beach, Ft Pierce); and the Panhandle (via Gainesville, Ocala, Tallahassee) with multiple companies. Others offer connections to the Keys through Miami-Dade and north towards Jacksonville along I-95 without going through Orlando. Check schedules. Many of the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns are not listed, check the article of your destination and the schedules of the company for all the transportation options. Information on transit (local public transportation) can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]: * {{go | name=Greyhound Lines / Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-231-2222 | hours= | price= | content=Connects South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) to Tampa, Naples and Jacksonville through Orlando with onward connections to Atlanta, Savannah, Houston and other cities north from Orlando. They also operate a less frequent service from Miami to Tampa via Belle Glade, Clewiston and Ft Myers. They also go south to Key West via the Florida Keys from Miami and north towards Jacksonville from Miami along I-95. Check schedules. }} * {{go | name=Jet Set Express | alt= | url=https://www.miamiorlando.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407 649-4994 | tollfree= | hours=Venue at stop open 24/7 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-29 | content=Thrice Daily departures to Ft Pierce, Kissimmee, Orlando from the Miami. Check schedules for a listing of other stops which are serviced once or twice daily. }} * {{go | name=Keys Shuttle | alt= | url=http://www.keysshuttle.com/ | email= | address=| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-289-9997 | tollfree=+1-888-765-9997 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-12 | content=The company provides door-to-door service to the Keys from the Miami and Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airports (and vice versa). }} * {{go | name=La Cubana Express | alt= | url=https://lacubanaxpress.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-541-1700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-27 | content=Connects Miami to New York City through Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Washington, DC; Elkton, Maryland; Philadelphia and New Jersey on a single route. In Florida they serve Miami, Ft Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Deltona and Jacksonville. }} * {{go | name=Our Bus | alt=Operated by different bus companies on contract to Our Bus | url=https://ourbus.com/ | email= | address=Terminal B of the Port of Miami Cruise Terminal | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 844 800-6828 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Fares range from $10 to $22 or more | content=Operates service between the Miami Cruise Terminals, Ft Lauderdale Airport, Tampa, Sarasota and Ft Myers. }} * {{go | name=Redcoach | alt= | url=https://www.redcoachusa.com/florida/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407-851-2843 | tollfree=+1-877-733-0724 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-22 | content=Service from Tallahassee to Miami via Ocala, Gainesville and Ft Lauderdale. One branch go through Orlando through Ft Pierce, W Palm Beach and Pompano Beach. Another go through Tampa, Ft Myers and Naples. }} There are a number of local and regional public transportation agencies that offer intercity bus services throughout the state. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]. ===By train=== *[[File:Brightline Train At Ft Lauderdale Station.jpg|thumb|251x251px|A Brightline train at the station in Fort Lauderdale.]]'''[https://www.amtrak.com/silver-service-palmetto-train Amtrak Silver Star]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92)'' and '''Silver Meteor''' ''(Trains #97 & 98)'' - This is a relatively expensive option but will suffice if other means are not possible. Both routes span from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Miami]]. While the two routes are slightly different, they both stop at the following stations: [[Jacksonville]], [[Palatka]], [[DeLand]], [[Winter Park (Florida)|Winter Park]], [[Orlando]], [[Kissimmee]], [[Winter Haven]], [[Sebring]], [[Okeechobee]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Delray Beach]], [[Deerfield Beach]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], [[Hollywood (Florida)|Hollywood]], and [[Miami]]. The slight difference between the two routes is that the Silver Star detours to [[Lakeland]] (to/from the north only) and [[Tampa]] (to/from the south only) while the Silver Meteor proceeds directly to Winter Haven from Kissimmee. * {{listing | name=Sun Rail | alt= | url=http://www.sunrail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 724-5411 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 5AM-11:30PM | price=$2-5 one way | wikipedia=SunRail | wikidata=Q3503715 | lastedit=2019-01-06 | content=Sun Rail is a north-south train on weekdays through [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]], Orlando, and Kissimmee, from Poinciana at its southern end, and DeBary at its northern end. Bus connection is provided from Orlando International Airport to the Sand Lake Road station by Linx routes 11, 42 and 111; and from Orlando-Sanford International Airport to the Sanford station by Linx route 46E. }} * {{listing | name=Tri-Rail | alt= | url=http://www.tri-rail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 954 783-6030 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 4AM-11:35PM (different weekends) | price=$2.50-11.55 for one-day pass |wikipedia=|wikidata=|image=| lastedit=2019-02-24 | content=The regional rail for South Florida with a single 18-station route from its north end at Mangonia Park, through Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach to its south end Miami Airport. It runs the same route as the Amtrak Silver Service from Miami to West Palm Beach with the same shared stops at West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood. This train is connected to Miami International Airport by the MIA Mover shuttle train, to the Fort Lauderdale Airport by a shuttle bus, and to the West Palm Beach Airport by Palm Transit bus route 42 or 44 and the Tri-Rail Shuttle Bus. }} * {{listing | name=Brightline | alt= | url=http://gobrightline.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Several departures daily | price=$20-350 roundtrip | lastedit=2024-03-30 | content=A private railroad running passenger trains since early 2018, initially between Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, with service to Miami added in the summer of 2018. An extension to Orlando International Airport from West Palm Beach was opened in 2023. Plans are underway to continue the route from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World, and eventually to Tampa. Brightline trains operate on separate tracks and stations than Amtrak and local commuter trains (which are shared with each other). }} ===By ferry=== A high speed ferry service, the '''[http://www.seakeywestexpress.com Key West Express],''' operates from the cities of [[Fort Myers]] and [[Marco Island]] with daily service to the Historic Seaport district of [[Key West]]. The ferry ride takes approximately 3½ hours and the Fort Myers vessels have a capacity exceeding 300 passengers. Amenities include outdoor sundecks, flat-screen TVs, galley service and a full bar. ==See== [[Image:Gatorland.JPG|thumb|right|Gatorland in Orlando.|206x206px]]The {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/ Kennedy Space Center]|wikidata=Q6389687|lat=|long=}} in [[Cape Canaveral]] was America's spaceport for the manned missions to the Moon and the Space Shuttle. The Visitor Complex contains spacecraft displays, two IMAX movies, the Astronaut's Hall of Fame, exhibits chronicling the history and future of space exploration, and a Space Shuttle Launch Experience.[[Image:FL-PonceInletLighthouse.jpg|thumb|The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse in [[Ponce Inlet]].|221x221px]]Florida has a long and complex history and is worth visiting for those interested in [[historical travel]]. {{marker|type=see|name=[[St. Augustine]]|wikidata=Q487988}}, founded by the Spanish in 1565, is the United States' oldest permanent European settlement. It contains a large colonial fort, multiple attractions and site detailing its history, countless restaurants and bars, and plenty of shops in its small, walkable downtown. '''[[Florida Lighthouses|Florida's Lighthouses]]''' are numerous, historic, and beautiful; take some time to visit these iconic images of the coast. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.flholocaustmuseum.org/ The Florida Holocaust Museum]|wikidata=Q884852|lat=|long=}} in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], this is one of the largest Holocaust museums in the U.S. and exhibits a box car used by Nazis to transport prisoners to extermination camps like [[Auschwitz]]. {{Marker|type=see|name=[http://www.salvadordalimuseum.org/ Salvador Dalí Museum]|wikidata=Q674427|lat=|long=}}, also in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|St. Petersburg]], is the largest collection of Dalí artwork outside of Europe. [[Sports]] are popular in the state of Florida, and particularly well-known is {{marker|type=see|name=Daytona International Speedway|wikidata=Q1179250}} near FL-92 and I-95 in [[Daytona Beach]]. The famous speedway venue is home of the number one event in stock car racing, NASCAR's Daytona 500 (February), along with other events throughout the year. '''[[Baseball in the United States#Spring Training|Spring Training baseball]]''' occurs throughout the state in late February and March, and offers the ability to watch your favorite players for discount prices (front row tickets can be purchased as low as $15-20) and in smaller, more intimate venues. {{marker|type=see|name=Sunshine Skyway Bridge|wikidata=Q2302271}} is the longest cable-stayed bridge in the world and an engineering masterpiece crossing the mouth of Tampa Bay. Two long fishing piers beside the bridge, the approaches of the previous bridge, are renowned among local fishermen and provide a less expensive alternative for saltwater fishing. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.ybor.org/ Ybor City]|wikidata=Q3572050|lat=|long=}} (pronounced ee-bor) is one of the largest party districts in the country, with countless bars, restaurants, clubs, and cigar stores, located near downtown [[Tampa]], easily accessible by car or with the free and historic streetcar service. Ybor City has a very historic and authentic feel, with a combination of Latin and Italian influence. Not just a nightlife district, however, with many cultural sights and restaurants open during the day. ===Wildlife=== {{see also|Marine life|Natural springs in Florida}} [[File:Alligator on the St Johns River.jpg|thumb|One of Florida's famous [[Dangerous animals#Alligators and crocodiles|alligators]]]] Alligators, crocodiles, manatees, bears, armadillos, dolphins, spoonbills...Florida's diverse array of habitats are home to a variety of wild animals. Alligators and their relatives can be seen in captivity at the Alligator Farm in [[Saint Augustine]], and the {{marker|type=see|name=Saint John's River|wikidata=Q1677915}}, which was expanded to better accommodate riverboats, is also an excellent place to see wildlife. An abundance of marinas and boat tours that exist in the cities north of Orlando have access to this river. It's lined with trees of various species, along with a variety of bird life. To see wild alligators, try [[Everglades National Park]] or [[Myakka River State Park]], and you can see manatees at [[Blue Spring State Park]] or [[Hernando County#Do|Weeki Wachee Springs]]. {{marker|type=see|name=Gatorland|wikidata=Q689585}} in [[Orlando]] is full of Florida's most unique animal and is one of the oldest tourist attractions in the state. Unfortunately, with all the exotic wildlife come a host of insects, especially during the May-October period. These are often encountered outdoors, especially in forested areas, during the summer and are attracted by that season's hot, humid weather, so if you visit between May and early fall, expect to encounter mosquitoes or even "lovebugs". Lovebugs, which are typically seen for just a few weeks during spring and fall, are completely harmless except for the mess they make on moving cars, and are so named because they are seen in pairs. Even more developed areas, if near forests, can attract mosquitoes. Along with the fauna is flora in its abundance (and variety) due to the warm and wet climate. === Itineraries === * '''[[U.S. Highway 1#Florida|US-1]]''' and '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|Interstate 10]]''' go through the state. * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' crosses a portion of Lake Ashby in Volusia County, Florida, before entering the rainforest. * '''[[East Central Regional Rail Trail]]''' is a recreational trail (and former rail trail) in Volusia County and the Space Coast that constitutes a part of Florida's Coast-to-Coast Trail. A paved trail, the route is popular with cyclists, as it crosses a variety of ecosystems and scenic areas including cypress groves, forests, and pine flatwoods. == Do == [[File:Spaceship Earth at night.jpg|thumb|The world-famous Spaceship Earth at Walt Disney World's [[Walt Disney World/Epcot|Epcot]] theme park.]] {{quote|If you can't find something to do in Florida, you're just boring|author=Guy Fieri|source=[https://web.archive.org/web/20170214011958/http://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do/food/dining/interview-guy-fieri-talks-new-projects-criticism-and-the-triple-d-effect/2312870 as quoted in the ''Tampa Bay Times'']}} * '''Go to the beach!''' You have numerous options here: [[Panama City Beach]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[New Smyrna Beach]], [[St. Pete Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]] and [[Siesta Key]] are some of the best. * Visit Florida's world class '''theme parks and water parks'''. **'''[[Walt Disney World]]''' - The most visited resort in the world, home to four theme parks, two water parks, and shopping, dining, and hotels galore. **[[Universal Orlando|'''Universal Orlando''']] - Disney World's biggest competitor, these three theme parks are home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. **'''SeaWorld''' in [[Orlando]] and '''Legoland''' in nearby [[Winter Haven]]. **'''Busch Gardens''' in [[Tampa]]. *Visit '''[[Everglades National Park]]''', a place like no other on Earth, and take an airboat ride through the swamps. A drive across the Everglades on US 41 is a great way to get a sense of the park's size and scenery. Check out [[Everglades City]] for great attractions. *Explore some of the more than 150 '''[http://www.floridastateparks.org/ Florida State Parks]'''. The only three-time winner of the National Recreation and Park Association's Gold Medal for state park systems. Get a Florida State Parks Annual Pass for free admission to most of the state parks, or discounted admission at [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Skyway Fishing Pier State Park]], [[Homosassa Springs|Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park]] and [[Hernando County|Weeki Wachee Springs State Park]]. *Visit the '''[http://www.seminoletribe.com/ Seminole]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} or [http://miccosukeetribe.com/ Miccosukee]{{Dead link|date=March 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native American]] reservations''' throughout the state. Here you can find out about their history and culture, try their food, and gamble in the casinos on their land, which include several Hard Rock Casinos. *'''Go [[scuba diving]] or snorkeling''' through the many coral reefs, sunken vessels, and diverse array of sea life off of Florida's coasts. The most colorful fish can be seen in the tropical waters of [[Miami]] and further south. *'''Go hiking or [[wilderness backpacking|backpacking]]''' in the many state and national parks and forests that have nature trails suitable for hiking and camping. A particularly good option is the Florida National Scenic Trail, a network of 1400 miles (2253 km) of hiking trails throughout the state. The most popular section of the trail is the 110-mile (177-km) loop encircling Lake Okeechobee. *'''Go fishing''', with some of the best fishing action in the world (both salt and freshwater). Several large and tough fighting species such as Sailfish, Tarpon, and Largemouth Bass can be found lurking in water throughout the state. *'''Take a [[Cruise ships|Cruise]]''' from the Port of [[Miami]], [[Tampa]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], or [[Cape Canaveral]] on longer cruises run by the likes of Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line or [[Disney Cruise Line]]. There are also short nightly casino cruises in various places. *'''View a rocket launch''', which are visible from virtually anywhere in the Peninsula when skies are clear. But the best viewing is up-close from [[Cape Canaveral|Cape Canaveral's]] Kennedy Space Center, [[Cocoa Beach]], [[Canaveral National Seashore]], or [[Titusville (Florida)|Titusville]]. *Check out the '''Florida State Fair''', held every February near Tampa. It hosts an exposition of counties, where each Florida county has a display and a representative to answer questions. In addition, the fair has animal displays and shows, an exhibition dedicated to citrus, various dance & cheerleading competitions, and a large selection of rides and games. ==Buy== Florida is increasingly becoming a '''major destination for shopping'''. The [[Orlando]] and [[Miami]] areas are home to a plethora of shopping malls, including many outlet malls home to shops selling brand-name products for discounted prices. There are also a large number of stores selling souvenirs, although most are not locally produced. The [[Kissimmee]] area near Orlando, especially, has a much larger number of retail stores than is typical of U.S. cities. While traditionally these shops catered largely to American families on vacation, most now serve foreign shoppers who flock to these malls to buy products significantly cheaper than at home. It's not uncommon at some shopping malls in Orlando to encounter tourists from around the globe, especially on weekdays when most Americans are working. In the last few years, [[Brazil]] has become the largest source of international visitors to the state, with many coming on shopping group tours and sometimes wearing matching shirts. Due to this, major shopping centers in the Orlando and Miami areas now offer services in [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]]. Most goods for sale in the state are subject to sales tax. In most of the state the rate is 7%, but it varies from 6-7.5% (6% state sales tax and up to 1.5% local sales tax). This rate is almost never listed on the advertised or displayed prices. ==Eat== [[File:Florida orange grove.JPG|thumb|A typical Florida orange grove near [[Sebring]].]] Florida's cuisine is a mix of many influences and its styles vary across the state from North to South. [[North Florida]] has a more Southern style; [[South Florida]] a more Caribbean one. There specifically, early Spanish and African cuisines have been given a new spin with the impact of Cuban and other Caribbean cultures, as well as from "snowbirds" escaping the Northern U.S. winters. Being on a peninsula, Florida's chefs have always had access to fresh seafood, and the long growing season provides fresh native vegetables almost year round. *'''Citrus''' is a main export, and a tourist is apt to see many roadside stands offering free samples of orange juice and fruits to be shipped or carried home. Florida also grows grapefruit, avocado, mango, papaya, passion fruit, kumquat, coconut and other tropical fruits. These often provide the base for sauces and marinades and are also used in marmalades, soups, and desserts. Official state welcome centers located on I-10, I-75, and I-95 as you enter Florida offer free samples of orange juice to all visitors, a tradition that goes back decades. *'''Strawberries''' are another popular fruit in Florida. [[Plant City]], off I-4 east of [[Tampa]], is the center of the Florida strawberry industry, where during the peak season (Feb-Mar) many roadside vendors offer flats (16 pints/12 lb/5.4 kg) and half-flats of strawberries for a small fraction of grocery store prices. Since most stands are owned by the individual farmers, the fruit sold was often harvested that morning or the day before. Fresh Florida strawberries are a treat no tourist should miss, at least if you visit in-season. *'''Grouper''' is a very popular seafood caught in Florida's coastal waters. Fresh grouper is offered in many coastal cities, where local restaurants buy it straight from fishermen, and it is often served fried or grilled on a sandwich. State inspectors have cracked down to ensure that all restaurants offering "grouper" are in fact serving grouper, and not another less expensive white fish. Snapper, snook, tarpon, marlin, and shark are other Florida fish that you can find at coastal restaurants, although they are not nearly as ubiquitous as grouper. *'''Southern food''' is available throughout most of [[North Florida|North]] and [[Central Florida]]. Barbeque is popular throughout the state, with many small "barbeque shacks" to choose from. Any platter costing over $10 ($15 for ribs) should be avoided as the less expensive restaurants are almost always best. Sweet tea is also common throughout the state, although unlike most areas in the [[South (United States of America)|South]], you have a choice between sweet and unsweet tea. Boiled peanuts, which taste nothing like a regular peanut, can be found at roadside vendors and are certainly worth trying. Dishes such as fried chicken, grits, okra, biscuits & gravy, and collard greens can also be found in restaurants and buffets throughout the state. *'''Cuban food''' is common in the [[Miami]] and [[Tampa]] areas, with the most common dishes being the Cuban sandwich, flan, and black beans & rice. *'''Local specialties''', not readily available in many other locales, include '''alligator'''. It is healthy and most say it tastes like chicken, and it is often prepared like chicken nuggets. '''Key lime pie''', found elsewhere now, is a [[Florida Keys]] invention, made from the local key limes. Florida bans indoor smoking in restaurants, but it is allowed outdoors unless the establishment prohibits it.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Drink== [[File:MIAMI-ArtDeco-rj002.jpg|thumb|The art deco hotels and clubs of Miami's [[Miami Beach/South Beach|South Beach]].]] '''Alcoholic beverages''' abound throughout the state. However, five rural counties in the northern third of the state are "dry counties", and no alcohol is sold in them. Stand-alone liquor stores are often built into strip malls, supermarkets, and pharmacies, and most grocery stores, gas stations, and convenience stores sell beer and wine. '''Bars and clubs''' are popular throughout the state, with [[Miami Beach]] being well-known for a variety of themed and upscale bars with innovative mixed drinks. Unique bars and clubs can also be found in downtown [[Orlando]] and the nearby tourist areas closer to the theme parks and resorts of [[Walt Disney World|Disney]] and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]]. No visit to Florida is complete without a cup of their famous '''orange juice'''. Like every other U.S. state, the purchase and possession age for alcohol is 21 and it's fairly well enforced. Underage drinking "stings" are frequent in most tourist areas. Florida allows smoking in bars, including those that serve food, but the bar must get less than 10% of their revenue from food.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Sleep== == Respect == If you're using a boat or other vehicle, like a jetski, in the water, it may be necessary to significantly reduce speed in areas inhabited by manatees and/or dolphins. Fast-moving vehicles can cause harm to a manatee's respiratory system. Misuse of recreation areas has caused record manatee deaths in 2021. ==Connect== [[File:Siesta Key Beach TV-001-0002.jpg|thumb|The gentle white sands of Siesta Key]] ===Internet=== Essentially all '''hotels''' offer Wi-Fi internet access for guests, and almost always for free; some even have Ethernet ports for higher-speed wired connections. Many '''businesses''' also have free Wi-Fi. This even includes some clothing/department, grocery, and convenience stores in addition to the more typical restaurants and shopping malls. All the main airports have free Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi internet access is also available at '''public libraries'''. It's almost always free for everyone with their own device (laptop, smartphone, tablet). Computers set up for internet access by patrons require a username and password to access; nearly all libraries will issue a "guest pass" for non-cardholders, though there is occasionally a nominal fee. Use of library computers is subject to time limits which vary widely. The large majority of "internet cafes" in the state are actually nominally illegal casinos, set up for online gambling in an attempt to circumvent gambling laws. Such internet cafes do not have typical computers for general use. Instead, they are usually enclosed in a slot machine-style cover with only a few buttons to press, and set up to only view gambling websites. Patrons pay for short periods of time, sometimes using odd methods like buying prepaid phone cards. After a high-profile crackdown on an operator of dozens of such internet cafes, the state banned the opening of all new internet cafes in 2013. ==Stay safe== Dialing '''911''' at any telephone will reach the emergency services (police, fire, ambulance, etc.). Any phone connected to a U.S. network, regardless of whether or not it has a paid account, must be able to dial 911 if it is connected to the network, and such calls are always free. ===Crime=== Florida has varying crime intensity from city to city. In certain areas of the large cities it may not be safe to walk alone or even in small groups at night, although these are the exceptions and most of Florida is safe for visitors. Tourist areas rarely have violent crimes, but theft is an occasional occurrence. If the area doesn't feel safe, then it probably isn't. '''Clip joint''' operators who trick visitors into paying large amounts of money for low-quality services may use local police to shake down voyagers under a Florida law that requires bar and restaurant patrons pay a disputed bill first and take it up later with their credit card company. Avoid getting involved in '''road rage''' incidents while driving in Florida as firearms frequently get involved. If someone cuts you off on the highway (a frequent occurence) just let it go.<!-- http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/04/07/17-charged-south-beach-alcohol-scam.html --> ===Weather=== {{infobox|Extreme Temperatures|''Never leave children or pets in a parked car for any length of time!'' Due to the high temperatures most of the year, the interior of a parked car can easily heat to a '''lethal''' temperature very quickly. During the summer, the interior of a parked car can reach {{convert|130|to|170|F}} in just 15 minutes, regardless of the color of the exterior or interior, nor whether the windows are open a small amount. You not only risk their lives, but '''it is illegal''' and the consequences could be thousands in fines and even imprisonment. Vehicles left containing animals or children ''will'' be broken into by police or bystanders.}} Florida has a high occurrence of '''hurricanes''', though they don't hit the state every year. You might want to check the [[Cyclones|hurricane safety]] page if you are visiting Florida during the Hurricane Season, which runs June 1 to November 30. Few places in the world experience more frequent '''lightning strikes''' than Florida. The summer thunderstorms in Florida produce frequent lightning, which kills people each year and injures many more. Stay indoors during a thunderstorm and ''never'' seek shelter under a tree. Most casualties occur on golf courses, but lightning strikes everywhere. If you must go outdoors during a storm, try to stay away from any tall object, especially trees or anything made of metal. Occasionally, thunderstorms will bring '''hail, high winds, and [[Tornado safety|tornadoes]]'''. While the historical number of tornadoes in Florida is somewhat high, the overwhelming majority have occurred during hurricanes (Hurricane Jeanne alone spawned over 200 tornadoes in Florida). While some do occur during winter cold fronts and summer thunderstorms, 99% of them are weak (F-0/F-1). Thus, while statistics may suggest otherwise, tornadoes are not a big hazard in Florida. Watch where and when you swim. While the beaches are great they sometimes harbor '''rip currents, bacteria, and jellyfish'''. Always check with the lifeguard stand or ranger station before heading in if no one is in the water or if the waves are rough. '''Red tide''' is the name for harmful algal blooms that can occur on Florida's Gulf coast. They cause fish kills and water discoloration, and release toxins into the air that cause respiratory irritation. People with severe or chronic respiratory conditions, such as emphysema or asthma, should avoid areas where red tide is occurring. Swimming in water afflicted by red tide can cause skin and eye irritation and is not recommended. Heavy rain can make the roads dangerous. Although many highway drainage systems in Florida are well-designed by necessity, it can be almost impossible to see through your windshield during the worst rainstorms. Light and torrential rain can be a hundred feet apart, so when you hit heavy rain, it's common for vehicular traffic to slow to speeds as low as 20 mph if necessary, even on major interstates. However, there are a few drivers who ignore the protocol and drive fast anyway. Even though it's common, it's illegal to drive with hazard lights on in the rain. Use them only if you are completely stopped. ===Wildlife=== {{main|Dangerous animals}} '''Alligators''' are a threat throughout Florida (even in inland areas like [[Orlando]] and the [[Walt Disney World]]<!-- http://www.cnn.com/2016/06/15/us/alligator-attacks-child-disney-florida/index.html -->), and it should be assumed that they are present in ''all'' stagnant or slow moving freshwater. ''Never'' swim in any lakes or rivers unless signs tell you swimming is safe, and beware when approaching the water anywhere. Do not allow children or pets to approach the water's edge. '''Bears''' and '''Florida panthers''', common before the arrival of Europeans in Florida, are now both endangered in the state. If you do see either, back off slowly or keep your distance, and make yourself appear larger by waving your arms above your head. When hiking, make lots of noise to avoid startling an animal, and always keep small children close to you. Both species are endangered and protected under Florida law, and harassing or injuring one (even in a vehicle accident) will result in prosecution. [[Volusia County]] is known for a high number of '''shark attacks''', but they can occur anywhere in the state, so be careful when surfing. Even so, the number of attacks are less than 50, with a fatal attack every 2-3 years, amongst ''millions'' of visitors and residents who swim in the ocean. Swimming near dusk and dawn is the most hazardous. '''Lionfish''' are a poisonous and invasive fish that are now present on reefs throughout Florida. They can be identified by their red-and white striped bodies and poisonous spines. Stings are extremely painful and often require hospitalization. Due to their status as an invasive species, any sighting of lionfish should be reported to wildlife management authorities immediately. '''Jellyfish''' are also sometimes common at the beaches, and '''venomous snakes''' can be found year round across the state, so it is good to be wary of both. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== A large number of countries have consulates in and around [[Miami#Consulates|Miami]], with a much smaller number in [[Jacksonville#Consulates|Jacksonville]], [[Orlando#Consulates|Orlando]] and [[Tampa#Consulates|Tampa]]. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are available only in [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]. ==See also== * '''[[British Florida]]''' Although Florida was under Spanish control for most of its history prior to U.S. control, there was a brief period of 20 years during which it was a British colony. During British rule in the region, it was divided into two colonies: East Florida governed from St. Augustine, and West Florida governed from Pensacola. * '''[[Spanish Florida]]''' Prior to its annexation by the United States, Florida was a colony of Spain. From the founding of St. Augustine in 1565 to the collapse of their empire in the 1820s, the Spanish built forts, missions, and attempted to settle the subtropical, humid peninsula despite competition from other European powers. * '''[[Seminole Wars]]''', not as well known as the other wars in which the United States participated in the 19th century, were a significant development of the Indian Removal Wars. Conflicts between British, American, Spanish, and Seminole participants date back to the 18th century, but the most coordinated fighting took place between the Napoleonic Wars and the American Civil War. * '''[[Summer in Florida]]''' is a popular time to visit, for example for its theme parks, because it's when most North Americans have vacations. However, the climate during this period can make travel more complicated, unless your travels are carefully managed * '''[[East Central Regional Rail Trail]]''' is a recreational trail (and former rail trail) in Volusia County and the Space Coast that constitutes a part of Florida's Coast-to-Coast Trail. A paved trail, the route is popular with cyclists, as it crosses a variety of ecosystems and scenic areas including cypress groves, forests, and pine flatwoods. * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' ==Go next== * '''[[Alabama]]''' - North of the Panhandle is Alabama, with the historic port of [[Mobile]] and popular resort town [[Gulf Shores]] a short drive away from this region of Florida. * '''[[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]''' - Heading out of Florida to the north is Georgia, with the historic city of [[Savannah]] and the resort beaches of [[Jekyll Island]] close by. * '''[[Caribbean]]''' - The islands of the Caribbean are accessible by boat and plane from across Florida and offer a variety of both relaxing and adventure travel amidst a tropical paradise. For those interested in visiting the '''[[Bahamas]]''' (as the nearest country), many owners of small boats will make the day-long trip to the island chain, and several small airlines offer flights for under $70 each way. Other popular destinations in the Caribbean that are further from Florida by boat are '''[[Dominican Republic]], [[Puerto Rico]]''', and the '''[[Virgin Islands]]'''. * '''[[Colombia]]''' and '''[[Venezuela]]''' are the nearest countries in '''[[South America]]''' that are 3-4 hours away by plane, on a direct flight from [[South Florida]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]]. * '''[[Cancun]]''' and '''[[Merida (Mexico)|Merida]]''' on the [[Yucatán_and_the_South|Yucatán Peninsula]] are the nearest cities in MExico from [[Miami International Airport|Miami]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]] that are a 2 hr 15 min away by plane. To go further into Mexico, [[Benito Juárez International Airport| Mexico City]] is 3 hr 40 min away from Miami or Orlando. * '''[[Central America]]''' is 2-3 hours on a plane from Miami, Ft Lauderdale and Orlando. <br />{{usableregion}} {{geo|28.1|-82.0|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|United_States}} {{related|Tornado_safety}} k3o0jhlvcwku5vqbl465w9ve1vtswx5 5288910 5288909 2026-06-06T17:05:25Z Anyone150 1516949 /* Go next */ 5288910 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lummus_Park_Florida_banner.jpg}} {{otheruses}}'''Florida''' is the southernmost state in the continental [[United States of America]]. Known as "The Sunshine State", over a century ago it became a popular winter destination for the well-to-do from colder climates; it has grown to become the second-most visited state in the nation. Tourists have long been drawn to Florida by its white-sand beaches and unique and diverse cities. Since the mid-twentieth century, world-class theme parks and attractions have become a top draw as well. In the 21st century, Florida has become the preferred retirement destination for rich Americans from all over the country. The state's roots in agriculture are still relevant, with oranges being a chief export. Untouched natural landscapes teeming with wildlife exist in vast areas, sometimes very close to cities, and there are miles of rivers and trails for the intrepid visitor. Some of Florida's best secrets are charming small towns and other places in secluded locations, away from the crowded tourist areas but certainly worth seeing. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Florida Static Map.png | regionmaptext=Regions of Florida | regionmapsize=410px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[First Coast]] | region1color=#c68d98ff | region1items= | region1description=The end of the St. Johns River is the location of [[Jacksonville]], one of the largest cities in the state, and some coastal towns including America's oldest city, [[St. Augustine]]. | region2name=[[Volusia County]] | region2color=#a9a567ff | region2items= | region2description=A beach county, also known as the "Fun Coast," frequented by snowbirds, [[Inland Florida]] residents, and fans of the Daytona 500. | region3name=[[Space Coast]] | region3color=#c39dc3ff | region3items= | region3description=The [[Kennedy Space Center]], [[Cape Canaveral]], and some coastal towns to the south are within this region, which is synonymous with Brevard County. | region4name=[[Treasure Coast]] | region4color=#ffd0d0ff | region4items= | region4description=Between Miami and the rest of the Atlantic coast, there are some medium-sized cities here, but it is still more off the beaten path than the counties to the south. | region5name=[[Greater Miami]] | region5color=#4da9c4ff | region5items=[[Palm Beach County]], [[Broward County]], [[Miami-Dade County]] | region5description=Miami and its surroundings (called the "Gold Coast") are known for their ethnic diversity, proximity to Latin America, and tourist appeal along the many miles of beautiful beaches. | region6name=[[Florida Keys]] | region6color=#d5dc76ff | region6items= | region6description=A chain of islands off the southern tip of the peninsula, and one of the state's main tourist destinations with its breathtaking tropical beauty. | region7name=[[Florida West Coast]] | region7color=#80bb89ff | region7items=[[Big Bend Coast]], [[Tampa Bay Area]], [[Southwest Florida]] | region7description=Particularly in the north, more rural than its eastern counterpart, the western coast is known for its Tampa-St. Petersburg metro area and many beautiful beaches in the southwest of the state, with the [[Everglades]] separating the region from Miami. | region8name=[[Florida Panhandle]] | region8color=#d56d76ff | region8items=[[Emerald Coast]], [[Forgotten Coast]], [[Middle Florida]], [[West Florida]] | region8description=The Florida panhandle is a "Deep South" region of antebellum plantations, red hills, and white sand beaches. Cities include the state capital of Tallahassee, Destin, Pensacola, and Panama City Beach. | region9name=[[Inland Florida]] | region9color=#d8a55eff | region9items=[[North Central Florida]], [[Greater Orlando]], [[Lake County (Florida)|Lake County]], [[Polk County (Florida)|Polk County]], [[Florida Heartland]] | region9description=A few cities dot this mostly rural region, including the college town of [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], the theme parks of [[Orlando]], and small towns throughout the rest. }} ==Cities== Below is a selection of some of Florida's most notable cities. Other cities can be found under their specific regions. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tallahassee]]|url=|lat=30.455|long=-84.253333|wikidata=Q37043}} – The state capital and thriving college town home to three schools, including Florida State<!-- capital top, alphabetize the rest --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Fort Lauderdale]]|url=|lat=26.133333|long=-80.15|wikidata=Q165972}} – The "Venice of America" with its expansive canal system, also known for beaches and boating *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Jacksonville]]|url=|lat=30.336944|long=-81.661389|wikidata=Q16568}} – Sprawling city encompassing large beaches, world-class museums, and award-winning golf *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Miami]]|url=|lat=25.775278|long=-80.208889|wikidata=Q8652}} – The center of Caribbean and Latin American culture, famed for its beachfront nightclubs *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Orlando]]|url=|lat=28.415833|long=-81.298889|wikidata=Q49233}} – The theme park capital of the world also features exciting dining, a lively arts scene, and ample recreation *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pensacola]]|url=|lat=30.433333|long=-87.2|wikidata=Q486306}} – White-sand beaches draw tourists to this town of ancient shipwrecks and military fighter jets *{{marker|type=city|name=[[St. Augustine]]|url=|lat=29.894722|long=-81.314444|wikidata=Q487988}} – The oldest city in the country is home to two more-than 400-year-old Spanish forts, restaurants, and shops *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tampa]]|url=|lat=27.968056|long=-82.476389|wikidata=Q49255}} – Large Gulf Coast metro area home to bustling nightlife as well as famed natural sites *{{marker|type=city|name=[[West Palm Beach]]|url=|lat=26.709722|long=-80.064167|wikidata=Q163749}} – Ritzy town home to the rich & famous, featuring high-end shopping and beautiful beaches ==Other destinations== [[File:Eudocimus albus (foraging).jpg|thumb|American white ibis at the Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area in [[Everglades National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Amelia Island]]|url=|lat=30.615556|long=-81.453889|wikidata=Q461578}} – Historic island at the north end of the state, with excellent golf resorts and a lively downtown *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Biscayne National Park]]|url=|lat=25.469444|long=-80.186111|wikidata=Q866080}} – A massive marine park protecting a wide range of animals and coral reefs *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Canaveral National Seashore]]|url=|lat=28.7675|long=-80.776944|wikidata=Q5031230}} – The longest stretch of unspoiled beach on the Atlantic coast, near rocket launches *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Everglades National Park]]|url=|lat=25.3125|long=-80.6875|wikidata=Q274131}} – Massive, vital, and delicate ecosystem protecting a great variety of plants and animals *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Florida Keys]]|url=|lat=24.666944|long=-81.544167|wikidata=Q537749}} – Chain of islands stretching into the Caribbean, offering tropical scenery and a laid-back lifestyle *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gulf Islands National Seashore]]|url=|lat=30.364444|long=-86.9675|wikidata=Q3120743}} – 12 islands along the Gulf Coast, featuring excellent beaches and sea turtles *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ocala National Forest]]|url=|lat=29.173611|long=-81.821667|wikidata=Q2013302}} – Extensive inland forest giving visitors a taste of old Florida charm *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Walt Disney World]]|url=|lat=28.385233|long=-81.563874|wikidata=Q206859}} – The "happiest place on earth", encompassing 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, and countless other amenities There are also articles on aspects of the state's history: [[Spanish Florida]] and [[Seminole Wars]]. ==Understand== While Florida is considered to be part of the [[South (United States of America)|South]], it originated not as a British colony, but as a Spanish one. As a result, the state has a unique history. Although Florida was a founding member of the Confederate States of America, and like other Southern states shared the experience of slavery and racial segregation during its history, today, Florida is a '''very diverse''' state, and contains a number of regions with slight cultural differences of their own that contribute to the state's diversity. Therefore, no one accent dominates in the speech of its residents, and it's often said that Florida is the only state that gets more "Southern" the farther ''north'' you go, and that is indeed true in a cultural sense. For a long time, Florida had been a swing state in presidential elections, almost evenly divided between Republicans and Democrats. However, a large influx of retirees in the 21st century has swung the political balance in favor of the Republicans as of the 2020s. ===History=== {{see also|Spanish Florida|British Florida}} Florida was inhabited by [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native Americans]] for over 13,000 years before the arrival of European explorers, colonists and slavers. It is estimated that there were some 350,000 inhabitants, of many tribes, when the Spanish explorer '''Juan Ponce de León''' arrived in 1513 in search of, according to legend, the Fountain of Youth. The first European settlement dates back to the 1560s with [[St. Augustine]], established in 1565, holding the distinction of being the oldest permanent European settlement in what is now the United States. However, this early settlement did not lead to the same level of rapid colonization that took place in the British colonies to the north, as the climate made large-scale settlement, especially inland, difficult for Europeans who were used to milder climates. Attempted settlements by Europeans, such as the [[New Smyrna Beach]] colony owned by a British man who employed former inhabitants of the Balearic Islands, were not always successful as challenges of climate and disease took their toll on the residents, who themselves ultimately moved to [[St. Augustine]]. From this time onward the state would not see large-scale economic and population expansion until Florida's statehood in the 19th century, when agriculture &mdash; including notably orange trees &mdash; and later tourism would achieve important roles in the state's economy. Along with the climate challenges, battles and competing claims for the region posed a challenge to the region's settlers. However, many Africans and African-Americans moved to Florida during the territory's early years because King Charles of Spain had issued a royal proclamation freeing all slaves who fled to [[Spanish Florida]], if they converted to Catholicism. {{Infobox|Shooting for the Stars|A source of pride and joy in Florida is its outsize role in the history of [[space exploration]]. Cape Canaveral began to be used for missile launches in 1949, and following President John F. Kennedy's vow to put American astronauts on the Moon before the end of the 1960s, early space flights took place there on converted missiles. The most important launches by NASA, including the Apollo 11 moon launch watched around the world in 1969, have taken place at the John F. Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral. Unfortunately, however, to make way for the creation of the space center, many residents of the Cape Canaveral region, including some African-Americans, were required by the government to leave Cape Canaveral, and little remains of the settlements that once existed in the Cape Canaveral region.}} Native Americans, including members of the Calusa tribe, fought effectively to defend their tribal lands from European colonization of the region; therefore it was some time before Europeans established colonies. However, once Europeans took control of the Florida region, oppression and killing of '''Native Americans''' &mdash; often as a result of war or disease &mdash; was tragic as it was in many other regions of the Americas. Following substantial depopulation of the state's native tribes, the Seminole tribe moved in and established themselves in Florida in the 18th century, though several conflicts between the Spanish, attempting to maintain Florida, and Americans attempting to annex the region, made an already disputed territory's political situation complex for Native Americans and settlers. Native Americans living in Florida fought hard and continued to guard their independence after Spanish Florida was ceded to the United States in 1821. The new territory of the U.S. was a slave plantation economy, much like the rest of the South at the time; the Seminoles gladly welcomed runaway slaves and accepted them into their tribe. However, after the [[Seminole Wars|Second Seminole War]], almost the entire tribe was deported west of the Mississippi River as part of the [[Trail of Tears]]. Florida was admitted to the Union as a slave state in 1845, but seceded and joined the '''Confederacy''' with the rest of the South in 1861. Largely untouched by the [[American Civil War]], the state enforced Jim Crow segregation laws against its then very large (approximately 44%) black population for a century after the Confederates' defeat. By the early 20th century, Florida had more lynchings per capita than any other state. However, there were three '''20th-century migrations''' that fundamentally changed the character of Florida, to the extent that many people no longer consider much of the state to be culturally Southern: the move of one-fifth of the state's African-American population to the Northern United States as part of the Great Migration during the first decades of the 20th century; the arrival of an increasing number of white retirees from the North after the spread of air conditioning in the 1950s; and the arrival of several waves of Cuban immigrants after the victory of Fidel Castro in 1959, who established themselves primarily in South Florida, particularly [[Miami-Dade County|Dade County]]. Florida has also seen major influxes of Latino immigrants from Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Central and South America, and Mexico, and there have also been many Haitian immigrants. ===Culture=== [[File:The Call-Collins House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida (7157983334).jpg|thumb|The Call-Collins Plantation House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida ]] Florida is geographically the southernmost of the contiguous United States, and it is a '''unique blend''' of societies. The [[Florida Panhandle]], much of [[North Florida]], rural areas of [[Central Florida]], and the [[Florida Heartland]] remain part of the cultural region of [[South (United States of America)|the South]], where you will find traditional southern cooking, entertainment, dialect, and lifestyles, much as you would expect in states like [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] or [[Alabama]]. Generally, the further south you go in the state, the more unlike the South it seems, and although Southern culture can be found in every region of the state, it is not always prevalent. Cities such as [[Tampa]] and [[Orlando]] offer the feel of the South, alongside many other cultures. There are a lot of Southerners in these areas, but also many people who are from other areas like the [[Midwest]] or the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. [[Miami]], on the other hand, is unique in that it feels like a cross between an American metropolis and a major Latin American city (like [[Rio de Janeiro|Rio]] or [[São Paulo]]). There are some Seminole Native American reservations and villages throughout southern Florida, namely in the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]], and their indigenous culture can be experienced by visiting a shop and browsing arts and crafts. The southernmost [[Florida Keys]] offer yet another flavor, full of the casual, slow-paced atmosphere of beach life. In short, Florida is a full-fledged region of the [[United States]] in its own right.[[File:Miami Beach FL Arch Dist Collins Ave down south01.jpg|thumb|267x267px|A view south on Collins Avenue in the [[Miami Beach/South Beach|Miami Beach Architectural District]]]] Much of the southern part of Florida is inhabited by people of Hispanic or Latino origin. The region that is substantially to in places majority Hispanic or Latino extends north to Orlando. There are large Cuban and Puerto Rican populations in [[Miami]] and the south side of [[Greater Orlando]], respectively. The white population is higher to the north, and by the northern border with Georgia and Alabama, the Hispanic/Latino population is very low. The Black or African-American population is primarily on the mainland and throughout the state, with historically Black communities and history in the [[Daytona Beach]] metro area, [[Jacksonville]], and Gadsden County in the Panhandle. The ethnic diversity of Florida, while not particularly cosmopolitan outside of certain urban centers, has contributed substantially to the culture, with Spanish spoken in some areas, but in the north, a tendency toward American cuisine and English language exists with few alternatives and much of the population of this region are known by outsiders as "rednecks." There are smaller communities of ethnic minorities including those of Anglo- or Franco-Caribbean or Middle Eastern origin, but these have a smaller impact on the state's culture than the largest ethnic groups. Due to a combination of factors, despite the state's high urbanization relative to many other Southern states, it does not lean as "liberal" as many comparably urban and ethnically diverse states in the North. The state is considered to be on the tipping point between left and right, but despite the prominently right-wing government that scraped through the 2018 elections, the state as a whole is middle of the road for the U.S. Orlando, state capital [[Tallahassee]], [[Fort Lauderdale]] and college town [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] lean left while most of Miami, [[Tampa]]-[[St Petersburg]], southwest Florida, parts of the east coast and rural inland and Panhandle lean conservative when compared with demographically similar communities in other parts of the country. However, almost all regions of the state are politically diverse. ===Landscape=== Florida's '''coastline is world class''', with several gorgeous beaches, bays, and estuaries. The Floridian landscape is extremely flat, however, with lakes and wetlands scattered throughout most of the state, though a mixture of ecosystems distract from the lack of topography. The only exceptions are parts of Highlands, Polk, Lake, and a few other counties in the center of the state where rolling hills are common. The highest point in the state is the {{ft|345}} Britton Hill on the Panhandle, and the {{ft|298}} Iron Mountain in Polk County is the highest point on the Peninsula. Florida's cities tend to be big, sprawling, and well-developed, but not as close to each other as an atlas might imply. Despite being a densely-populated state, there are fortunately still several expanses of wilderness left, although these are often near or between populated urban areas. Some rural parts of the state grow citrus and sugar cane, but farmland tends to be in regions outside the usual tourist areas. The [[Florida Panhandle]] and most of [[North Florida]] consist of farmland and pine trees, but as you travel south, you'll see more wetlands and urbanization, culminating at the Everglades in the far south of the state near Miami. The [[Florida Keys]] are a small chain of tropical islands with their own unique geography. ===Climate=== [[Image:Frances 2004-09-05 1815Z.jpg|thumb|293x293px|right|Hurricane Frances makes landfall on the morning of September 5, 2004 near Stuart. Its impact, however, was felt throughout Central Florida and most of Florida's east coast.]] Florida is known around the world for warm and sunny weather and this has led to the state being a major tourist destination. Florida has the mildest winters on the US mainland, and retirees and temporary residents known as "snowbirds", flock to the state in the cold season. Coastal areas experience gentle breezes during the summer, and the beach is usually the coolest place to be. While those coastal breezes are a welcome relief from the scorching temperatures, they are also the cause of a well-known Florida weather feature: '''thunderstorms'''. While the storms are often brief, they are common, and anyone visiting Florida during the rainy season (mid-June to September) should plan a few indoor activities in the afternoons as a backup. Florida's thunderstorms occur every day during the rainy season and typically form 20-30mi (32-48km) inland and either move toward the center of the state or toward the coast. Due to this, rain can be occurring just a few miles inland from the coast, while those at the beach experience a beautiful day. While the storms cool the air, bringing a welcome though often short relief to stifling temperatures, many produce considerable amounts of '''dangerous lightning''' and some bring hail, high winds of 50 mph (80 km/h) or more, and tornadoes. See the "stay safe" section for thunderstorm safety. Many tourist areas, such as [[Walt Disney World]], have multiple attractions available even during downpours. The spring is the driest time of the year, leading to wildfires nearly every May and early June. The six-month '''[[Hurricane safety|hurricane]] season''' runs from June 1 through November 30 and Floridians have learned to be ready when a storm threatens the area. If you plan on visiting during the months of June through November and especially during the peak of the hurricane season from August through October, stay aware of the news and weather advisories. Information is available from the [http://www.nhc.noaa.gov National Hurricane Center]. Cyclones are unlikely but possible in the month of May. From June through October is the hot and wet season in Florida. High temperatures are often in the 80s to 90s F (30-32 C) and lows in the 70s (24 C). Heat indices typically range between {{F|75}} and {{F|97}}, but on some of the hottest days, the heat indices can climb to {{F|107}} and not go below {{F|80}} at night. The Bermuda High pumps in hot and unstable tropical air from the Bahamas and Gulf of Mexico, which help create the daily thundershowers that are typical in summer months in Florida. Intense but very brief downpours are common in summer in much of Florida. Normally, the wet season starts to fade by early November in northern Florida and reaches southern Florida by late November. From December through April the weather in much is Florida is mild and often dry. The dry season (or winter) is often the driest and most sunny season in Florida, Average high temperatures range from the low 60's in northern Florida to the mid 70's F in far southern Florida. Overnight lows fall to the middle 40's in northern Florida to near 60 F in far southern Florida. A few times each winter, a strong cold front may drop temperatures to near freezing across northern Florida, though in many years there is no freeze at all from central Florida southward. In the driest months, Florida often has long periods of rain-less weather, and by April drought conditions with brush fires and water restrictions are sometimes in place. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitflorida.com/ Visit Florida] website ==Talk== '''English''' is the official language of the state. However, [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]] is the native language of approximately 20% of Florida residents, and the further south you go, the more Spanish speakers there will be. In some parts of [[South Florida]], Spanish is the preferred language in everyday activities. [[Miami]] is most notable, where nearly 80% of residents do not speak English as their native language and 30% do not speak any English at all. [[Tampa]] also has a sizable Spanish-speaking population, and neighborhoods where it is almost exclusively spoken. Like anywhere where there is a large presence of another language, expect Spanish words or expressions used or calqued into everyday English. Gullah, a distinctive English-based creole, is spoken by some African-American communities along the northeastern coast, near the border with Georgia. Native-born non-Hispanic Floridians from the northern part of the state will usually speak with a Southern accent. However, after the migration of millions of Americans from all over the country to the central and southern parts of the state, the Southern dialect is becoming diluted with other accents. Residents of Miami often speak in a distinctive accent with strong influences from Cuban Spanish. ==Get in== [[Image:Orlando International Airport hotel rooms.jpg|227x227px|thumb|A full-service Marriott hotel is directly within Orlando International Airport]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Air travel in the United States}} *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Orlando International Airport]]|wikidata=Q929859}} ({{IATA|MCO}}) - your choice airport for [[Disney World]] and the other attractions in [[Central Florida]]. Located south of downtown [[Orlando]], this airport offers tons of car rentals and free shuttles to Disney and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]] for visitors. Being centrally located it serves as a hub or focus city for Jetblue, Frontier, and Southwest Airlines. There are international connections from South America, Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, Europe and the Middle East. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Miami International Airport]]|wikidata=Q127530}} ({{IATA|MIA}}) - the biggest airport for travel in [[South Florida]], it's the best option for trips to the [[Everglades]] or [[Miami|Miami's]] beaches. The airport is a hub for American Airlines and the most popular entry point with a wide variety of flights from Europe, South America, Central America, the Caribbean, Cuba and Mexico. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Tampa#By plane|Tampa International Airport]]|wikidata=Q571536}} ({{IATA|TPA}}) - serves the Gulf Coast, namely the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area. There are direct flights offered from all over the U.S. and from a number of international destinations in Canada, Cuba, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Fort Lauderdale#By plane|Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport]]|wikidata=Q635361}} ({{IATA|FLL}}) - the fourth-largest airport in Florida, and another valid option to consider with many domestic low-fare carriers such as Allegiant, JetBlue, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Jacksonville#By plane|Jacksonville International Airport]]|wikidata=Q1431579}} ({{IATA|JAX}}) - primary airport for travel in [[North Florida]], serving [[Amelia Island]] and historic [[St. Augustine]]. Other large airports can be found in [[Pensacola]], [[Fort Myers]], [[Tallahassee]], [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]]/[[Clearwater]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Sarasota]], [[Key West]], [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], [[Melbourne (Florida)|Melbourne]], and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]]. There are many more airports throughout Florida that may get you closer to your destination; watch for these smaller airports while researching your destination. ===By car=== [[File:Brickell skyline 2012.jpg|thumb|The skyline of [[Miami/Brickell|Brickell, Miami]]|240x240px]] Three [[Driving in the United States|Interstate highways]] connect Florida with adjacent states: * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|Interstate 10 (I-10)]]''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and passes through the center of the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]] and across [[North Florida]] until its terminus in Jacksonville. Interstate 10 is most convenient for travelers from [[Louisiana]], [[Texas]], and areas farther west. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' also enters Florida from Georgia and passes through the center of the state until the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area, after which it follows the Gulf of Mexico coast (10-20 mi/16-32 km inland) to [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], where it heads due east across the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]] to Fort Lauderdale. Interstate 75 is most convenient for travelers arriving from [[Atlanta]] and the [[Midwest]]. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] just north of [[Jacksonville]] and parallels the Atlantic coast, never more than 25 miles inland, until its terminus south of downtown [[Miami]]. Interstate 95 provides the most convenient route for people from the East Coast, [[New England]], eastern parts of [[Canada]]. Jacksonville, [[Daytona Beach]], and the Miami-[[Fort Lauderdale]]-[[West Palm Beach]] area are all serviced by I-95, with access to [[Orlando]] provided via Interstate 4. * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''I-4''' does not cross any state line but is still called an interstate. It crosses the state from Gulf to East coast, passing from Tampa in the west through Orlando and ending at the western boundary of Daytona Beach. It curves to the north on its easternmost segment. The road, particularly on the north side of Orlando, is notoriously dangerous, and the frequent thunderstorms in addition to ongoing road work don't help with this concern. The speeds on this road are high and speed limits are ignored by most, but as a quick route there are few comparable alternatives and it does a good job of connecting the suburbs. Additional major highways entering Florida include: * [[File:US 1.svg|link=US Route 1#Florida|22px]] '''[[US Route 1|US-1]]''' enters Florida north of Jacksonville and snakes along the east coast between Interstate 95 and the Intracoastal Waterway/Atlantic Ocean. Unlike I-95, US 1 continues past Miami and is routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US-27''' enters Florida from western Georgia and provides access to the state capital, [[Tallahassee]], before routing through mostly rural areas of the peninsula. Down the center of the state between Florida's Turnpike and Miami, US 27 is a primary trucking route, and as such this route can be a hassle while dealing with heavy traffic. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US-98''' enters Florida near Pensacola and remains close to the Gulf of Mexico coast until the Panhandle meets the Florida peninsula at the "Big Bend" area. Unlike I-10 to the north, which runs through the interior of the Panhandle away from the coast, US 98 provides a scenic drive and convenient access to the beaches. After leaving the Panhandle, US 98 runs diagonally down the peninsula to West Palm Beach through primarily rural areas. * [[File:US 231.svg|22px]] '''US-231''' enters Florida from Alabama and crosses the Panhandle north-south to its southern terminus at [[Panama City Beach]]. US 231 provides convenient access to the Panhandle from the Midwest via it connection with Interstate 65 in [[Montgomery]]. * [[File:US 301.svg|22px]] '''I-301''' enters Florida just north of Jacksonville and was once the main route from the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. It is a very scenic alternative to I-95 with a lot less traffic. Exiting I-95 at Santee, [[South Carolina]] motorists can follow US 301 through Georgia and into Florida and connect to I-95 again in Jacksonville for Atlantic coast destinations, or continue on to join I-75 at [[Ocala]] for Tampa and the Gulf coast. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to Florida from neighboring states and from the major airports in the states. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''[[Florida#By_bus_2|By bus]]'' under ''Get around'' for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By train=== [[Rail travel in the United States|Amtrak]] has two services to Florida: *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/auto-train.html Amtrak Auto Train]''' ''(Trains #52 & 53)'' carries passengers and automobiles between [[Lorton]], [[Virginia]] and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford, Florida]] (north of [[Orlando]]), effectively serving as a car-rail link to Florida from the [[Washington, D.C.]] metro area. This train makes no stops between Lorton & Sanford and is a way to cut back on the extra mileage and wear and tear on the car. *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/silver-service-palmetto-train.html Amtrak Silver Service]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92 and #97 & 98 respectively)'' are two routes that both begin in [[New York City]] and end in [[Miami]]. The trains follow the same route heading to Florida, except in [[North Carolina|North]] and [[South Carolina]]. Within the state, the trains run the same line from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Kissimmee]]. There, they split again, and the Silver Star (Trains #91 & 92) diverges to head west towards [[Lakeland]] and [[Tampa]] while the Silver Meteor (Trains #97 & 98) continues south towards [[Winter Haven]]. Both routes meet again further south and serve the rest of the stations along Florida's east coast to Miami. ===By boat=== Florida is possibly the largest state for [[Cruise ships|cruise ship]] vacations in the United States. [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Tampa]], [[Miami]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] are all popular starting ports, with cruises heading throughout the [[Caribbean]]. There are also many short-term casino cruises that depart from [[Pinellas County]] and around [[South Florida]]. [http://www.ferryexpress.com/ Ferry service]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is also available to and from the [[Bahamas]], with service between [[Fort Lauderdale]] and [[Freeport (Bahamas)|Freeport]], and between Miami and [[Bimini]]. ==Get around== [[File:Overseas Highway bridge.jpg|thumb|The Overseas Highway to Key West.]] ===By car=== Traveling by car is the most common and most convenient way to get around the state for travelers and locals alike. For the traveler car rental agencies are abound in Florida and many are available at every major airport. [[Orlando]], in particular, is known as the "Car Rental Capital of the World". With Florida being the most visited state in the US, car rental rates here are among (if not) the lowest rates in the country due to sheer volume. '' '''Florida's major highways include:''' '' * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 4 (I-4)''' crosses diagonally from [[Tampa]], heads east through [[Plant City]] and [[Lakeland]], then continues northeast past [[Kissimmee]], [[Walt Disney World]], and [[Orlando]], before ending at Interstate 95 near [[Daytona Beach]]. Interstate 4 is the most travelled highway in Florida and due to the large volume of traffic, high speeds (70 mph,112 km/h outside of urban areas), construction, and large number of tourists it is also the most dangerous highway in the state, in terms of the number of accidents. * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] & [[File:US 90.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|I-10]]''' and '''US-90''' enter Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and travels across the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]], past [[Tallahassee]] and [[Lake City]], and through rural [[North Florida]] to its terminus at I-95 in Jacksonville. US Hwy 90 straddles I-10 through the northern Florida Panhandle, going through the cities and towns as a local surface street/highway while I-10 goes straight through bypassing the cities and towns. US Hwy 90 continues past the I-95 corridor in downtown Jacksonsville and ends at FL A1A at Jacksonville Beach. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' enters Florida from Georgia and runs south through the center of the peninsula past [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] and [[Ocala]] before crossing just east of Tampa, where it then parallels the Gulf coast past [[Bradenton]], [[Sarasota]], [[Fort Myers]], and [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], after which it travels due east across the [[Everglades]] (a section known as 'Alligator Alley') to the Miami suburbs. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]], north of [[Jacksonville]], and travels down the Atlantic coast past [[St. Augustine]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Vero Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] before ending at US 1 just south of downtown [[Miami]]. * [[File:Florida's_Turnpike_shield.svg|link=https://www.floridasturnpike.com|22px]] The '''[https://floridasturnpike.com/ Florida Turnpike]''' is a toll road that runs from I-75 south of Ocala, through Orlando, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale before ending south of Miami. It provides the easiest access to Orlando and southeast Florida for persons entering the state via I-75 or I-10. * [[File:I-275.svg|22px]] '''I-275''' is a secondary Interstate that runs from I-75 north of the Tampa area, past downtown Tampa and [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], where it crosses the 5.5-mile-long (8.8km), 193 foot-tall (58.8m) Sunshine Skyway Bridge before it rejoins I-75 south of Bradenton. Interstate 75 ''does not'' provide access to these areas, it instead passes through rural and suburban areas 10 miles east of Tampa. * [[File:US 1.svg|22px]] '''[[US Route 1#Florida|US-1]]''' is a historic and scenic highway that travels down the Atlantic coast between I-95 and the ocean before being routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:Florida A1A.svg|22px]] '''FL-A1A''' runs parallel to US Hwy 1 as the coastal highway along the east coast. It serves the beach communities as a local street (such as Collins Ave in Miami Beach or Ocean Dr in Ft Lauderdale) in the offshore islands/keys along the entire east coast. It is fragmented and does not run continuously from South Beach to Fernadina Beach. It runs concurrent on US Hwy 1 in places where it is not a separate road. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US 27''' is a well-traveled alternative to Florida's Turnpike and runs from Miami, along Lake Okeechobee and through the mostly-rural [[Florida Heartland|Heartland]] of Florida before continuing through Ocala, Gainesville, and Tallahassee. * [[File:US 41.svg|22px]] '''US 41''' runs west from Miami on a scenic 2-lane journey through the Everglades, and then travels along the Gulf Coast, around the east side of Tampa Bay, and north into Georgia. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US 98''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] at Pensacola and travels a very scenic route along the Gulf Coast of the Panhandle, after which it continues diagonally across the peninsula to its terminus in West Palm Beach. ===By plane=== Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state especially between South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) and the Panhandle (Pensacola and Tallahassee) while others will be relatively short (Ft Lauderdale to Orlando). '''[http://www.atlanticairlines.com/ Atlantic Airlines]''', '''[https://www.allegiantair.com Allegiant]''' (Key west to St Petersburg & Sanford); '''[https://www.flybreeze.com Breeze]''', '''[http://www.aa.com American Airlines/American Eagle]''', '''[https://www.flyfrontier.com Frontier]''', '''[https://www.JetBlue.com JetBlue]''', and '''[https://www.southwest.com/ Southwest]''' offer intrastate flights between cities in Florida. ===By bus=== The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There is fairly frequent service from Orlando (as a 'de-facto' hub) to Naples (via Tampa Bay, Ft Myers); South Florida (W Palm Peach, Ft Lauderdale, Miami); Jacksonville (via Daytona Beach, Ft Pierce); and the Panhandle (via Gainesville, Ocala, Tallahassee) with multiple companies. Others offer connections to the Keys through Miami-Dade and north towards Jacksonville along I-95 without going through Orlando. Check schedules. Many of the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns are not listed, check the article of your destination and the schedules of the company for all the transportation options. Information on transit (local public transportation) can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]: * {{go | name=Greyhound Lines / Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-231-2222 | hours= | price= | content=Connects South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) to Tampa, Naples and Jacksonville through Orlando with onward connections to Atlanta, Savannah, Houston and other cities north from Orlando. They also operate a less frequent service from Miami to Tampa via Belle Glade, Clewiston and Ft Myers. They also go south to Key West via the Florida Keys from Miami and north towards Jacksonville from Miami along I-95. Check schedules. }} * {{go | name=Jet Set Express | alt= | url=https://www.miamiorlando.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407 649-4994 | tollfree= | hours=Venue at stop open 24/7 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-29 | content=Thrice Daily departures to Ft Pierce, Kissimmee, Orlando from the Miami. Check schedules for a listing of other stops which are serviced once or twice daily. }} * {{go | name=Keys Shuttle | alt= | url=http://www.keysshuttle.com/ | email= | address=| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-289-9997 | tollfree=+1-888-765-9997 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-12 | content=The company provides door-to-door service to the Keys from the Miami and Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airports (and vice versa). }} * {{go | name=La Cubana Express | alt= | url=https://lacubanaxpress.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-541-1700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-27 | content=Connects Miami to New York City through Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Washington, DC; Elkton, Maryland; Philadelphia and New Jersey on a single route. In Florida they serve Miami, Ft Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Deltona and Jacksonville. }} * {{go | name=Our Bus | alt=Operated by different bus companies on contract to Our Bus | url=https://ourbus.com/ | email= | address=Terminal B of the Port of Miami Cruise Terminal | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 844 800-6828 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Fares range from $10 to $22 or more | content=Operates service between the Miami Cruise Terminals, Ft Lauderdale Airport, Tampa, Sarasota and Ft Myers. }} * {{go | name=Redcoach | alt= | url=https://www.redcoachusa.com/florida/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407-851-2843 | tollfree=+1-877-733-0724 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-22 | content=Service from Tallahassee to Miami via Ocala, Gainesville and Ft Lauderdale. One branch go through Orlando through Ft Pierce, W Palm Beach and Pompano Beach. Another go through Tampa, Ft Myers and Naples. }} There are a number of local and regional public transportation agencies that offer intercity bus services throughout the state. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]. ===By train=== *[[File:Brightline Train At Ft Lauderdale Station.jpg|thumb|251x251px|A Brightline train at the station in Fort Lauderdale.]]'''[https://www.amtrak.com/silver-service-palmetto-train Amtrak Silver Star]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92)'' and '''Silver Meteor''' ''(Trains #97 & 98)'' - This is a relatively expensive option but will suffice if other means are not possible. Both routes span from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Miami]]. While the two routes are slightly different, they both stop at the following stations: [[Jacksonville]], [[Palatka]], [[DeLand]], [[Winter Park (Florida)|Winter Park]], [[Orlando]], [[Kissimmee]], [[Winter Haven]], [[Sebring]], [[Okeechobee]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Delray Beach]], [[Deerfield Beach]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], [[Hollywood (Florida)|Hollywood]], and [[Miami]]. The slight difference between the two routes is that the Silver Star detours to [[Lakeland]] (to/from the north only) and [[Tampa]] (to/from the south only) while the Silver Meteor proceeds directly to Winter Haven from Kissimmee. * {{listing | name=Sun Rail | alt= | url=http://www.sunrail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 724-5411 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 5AM-11:30PM | price=$2-5 one way | wikipedia=SunRail | wikidata=Q3503715 | lastedit=2019-01-06 | content=Sun Rail is a north-south train on weekdays through [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]], Orlando, and Kissimmee, from Poinciana at its southern end, and DeBary at its northern end. Bus connection is provided from Orlando International Airport to the Sand Lake Road station by Linx routes 11, 42 and 111; and from Orlando-Sanford International Airport to the Sanford station by Linx route 46E. }} * {{listing | name=Tri-Rail | alt= | url=http://www.tri-rail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 954 783-6030 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 4AM-11:35PM (different weekends) | price=$2.50-11.55 for one-day pass |wikipedia=|wikidata=|image=| lastedit=2019-02-24 | content=The regional rail for South Florida with a single 18-station route from its north end at Mangonia Park, through Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach to its south end Miami Airport. It runs the same route as the Amtrak Silver Service from Miami to West Palm Beach with the same shared stops at West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood. This train is connected to Miami International Airport by the MIA Mover shuttle train, to the Fort Lauderdale Airport by a shuttle bus, and to the West Palm Beach Airport by Palm Transit bus route 42 or 44 and the Tri-Rail Shuttle Bus. }} * {{listing | name=Brightline | alt= | url=http://gobrightline.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Several departures daily | price=$20-350 roundtrip | lastedit=2024-03-30 | content=A private railroad running passenger trains since early 2018, initially between Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, with service to Miami added in the summer of 2018. An extension to Orlando International Airport from West Palm Beach was opened in 2023. Plans are underway to continue the route from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World, and eventually to Tampa. Brightline trains operate on separate tracks and stations than Amtrak and local commuter trains (which are shared with each other). }} ===By ferry=== A high speed ferry service, the '''[http://www.seakeywestexpress.com Key West Express],''' operates from the cities of [[Fort Myers]] and [[Marco Island]] with daily service to the Historic Seaport district of [[Key West]]. The ferry ride takes approximately 3½ hours and the Fort Myers vessels have a capacity exceeding 300 passengers. Amenities include outdoor sundecks, flat-screen TVs, galley service and a full bar. ==See== [[Image:Gatorland.JPG|thumb|right|Gatorland in Orlando.|206x206px]]The {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/ Kennedy Space Center]|wikidata=Q6389687|lat=|long=}} in [[Cape Canaveral]] was America's spaceport for the manned missions to the Moon and the Space Shuttle. The Visitor Complex contains spacecraft displays, two IMAX movies, the Astronaut's Hall of Fame, exhibits chronicling the history and future of space exploration, and a Space Shuttle Launch Experience.[[Image:FL-PonceInletLighthouse.jpg|thumb|The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse in [[Ponce Inlet]].|221x221px]]Florida has a long and complex history and is worth visiting for those interested in [[historical travel]]. {{marker|type=see|name=[[St. Augustine]]|wikidata=Q487988}}, founded by the Spanish in 1565, is the United States' oldest permanent European settlement. It contains a large colonial fort, multiple attractions and site detailing its history, countless restaurants and bars, and plenty of shops in its small, walkable downtown. '''[[Florida Lighthouses|Florida's Lighthouses]]''' are numerous, historic, and beautiful; take some time to visit these iconic images of the coast. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.flholocaustmuseum.org/ The Florida Holocaust Museum]|wikidata=Q884852|lat=|long=}} in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], this is one of the largest Holocaust museums in the U.S. and exhibits a box car used by Nazis to transport prisoners to extermination camps like [[Auschwitz]]. {{Marker|type=see|name=[http://www.salvadordalimuseum.org/ Salvador Dalí Museum]|wikidata=Q674427|lat=|long=}}, also in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|St. Petersburg]], is the largest collection of Dalí artwork outside of Europe. [[Sports]] are popular in the state of Florida, and particularly well-known is {{marker|type=see|name=Daytona International Speedway|wikidata=Q1179250}} near FL-92 and I-95 in [[Daytona Beach]]. The famous speedway venue is home of the number one event in stock car racing, NASCAR's Daytona 500 (February), along with other events throughout the year. '''[[Baseball in the United States#Spring Training|Spring Training baseball]]''' occurs throughout the state in late February and March, and offers the ability to watch your favorite players for discount prices (front row tickets can be purchased as low as $15-20) and in smaller, more intimate venues. {{marker|type=see|name=Sunshine Skyway Bridge|wikidata=Q2302271}} is the longest cable-stayed bridge in the world and an engineering masterpiece crossing the mouth of Tampa Bay. Two long fishing piers beside the bridge, the approaches of the previous bridge, are renowned among local fishermen and provide a less expensive alternative for saltwater fishing. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.ybor.org/ Ybor City]|wikidata=Q3572050|lat=|long=}} (pronounced ee-bor) is one of the largest party districts in the country, with countless bars, restaurants, clubs, and cigar stores, located near downtown [[Tampa]], easily accessible by car or with the free and historic streetcar service. Ybor City has a very historic and authentic feel, with a combination of Latin and Italian influence. Not just a nightlife district, however, with many cultural sights and restaurants open during the day. ===Wildlife=== {{see also|Marine life|Natural springs in Florida}} [[File:Alligator on the St Johns River.jpg|thumb|One of Florida's famous [[Dangerous animals#Alligators and crocodiles|alligators]]]] Alligators, crocodiles, manatees, bears, armadillos, dolphins, spoonbills...Florida's diverse array of habitats are home to a variety of wild animals. Alligators and their relatives can be seen in captivity at the Alligator Farm in [[Saint Augustine]], and the {{marker|type=see|name=Saint John's River|wikidata=Q1677915}}, which was expanded to better accommodate riverboats, is also an excellent place to see wildlife. An abundance of marinas and boat tours that exist in the cities north of Orlando have access to this river. It's lined with trees of various species, along with a variety of bird life. To see wild alligators, try [[Everglades National Park]] or [[Myakka River State Park]], and you can see manatees at [[Blue Spring State Park]] or [[Hernando County#Do|Weeki Wachee Springs]]. {{marker|type=see|name=Gatorland|wikidata=Q689585}} in [[Orlando]] is full of Florida's most unique animal and is one of the oldest tourist attractions in the state. Unfortunately, with all the exotic wildlife come a host of insects, especially during the May-October period. These are often encountered outdoors, especially in forested areas, during the summer and are attracted by that season's hot, humid weather, so if you visit between May and early fall, expect to encounter mosquitoes or even "lovebugs". Lovebugs, which are typically seen for just a few weeks during spring and fall, are completely harmless except for the mess they make on moving cars, and are so named because they are seen in pairs. Even more developed areas, if near forests, can attract mosquitoes. Along with the fauna is flora in its abundance (and variety) due to the warm and wet climate. === Itineraries === * '''[[U.S. Highway 1#Florida|US-1]]''' and '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|Interstate 10]]''' go through the state. * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' crosses a portion of Lake Ashby in Volusia County, Florida, before entering the rainforest. * '''[[East Central Regional Rail Trail]]''' is a recreational trail (and former rail trail) in Volusia County and the Space Coast that constitutes a part of Florida's Coast-to-Coast Trail. A paved trail, the route is popular with cyclists, as it crosses a variety of ecosystems and scenic areas including cypress groves, forests, and pine flatwoods. == Do == [[File:Spaceship Earth at night.jpg|thumb|The world-famous Spaceship Earth at Walt Disney World's [[Walt Disney World/Epcot|Epcot]] theme park.]] {{quote|If you can't find something to do in Florida, you're just boring|author=Guy Fieri|source=[https://web.archive.org/web/20170214011958/http://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do/food/dining/interview-guy-fieri-talks-new-projects-criticism-and-the-triple-d-effect/2312870 as quoted in the ''Tampa Bay Times'']}} * '''Go to the beach!''' You have numerous options here: [[Panama City Beach]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[New Smyrna Beach]], [[St. Pete Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]] and [[Siesta Key]] are some of the best. * Visit Florida's world class '''theme parks and water parks'''. **'''[[Walt Disney World]]''' - The most visited resort in the world, home to four theme parks, two water parks, and shopping, dining, and hotels galore. **[[Universal Orlando|'''Universal Orlando''']] - Disney World's biggest competitor, these three theme parks are home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. **'''SeaWorld''' in [[Orlando]] and '''Legoland''' in nearby [[Winter Haven]]. **'''Busch Gardens''' in [[Tampa]]. *Visit '''[[Everglades National Park]]''', a place like no other on Earth, and take an airboat ride through the swamps. A drive across the Everglades on US 41 is a great way to get a sense of the park's size and scenery. Check out [[Everglades City]] for great attractions. *Explore some of the more than 150 '''[http://www.floridastateparks.org/ Florida State Parks]'''. The only three-time winner of the National Recreation and Park Association's Gold Medal for state park systems. Get a Florida State Parks Annual Pass for free admission to most of the state parks, or discounted admission at [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Skyway Fishing Pier State Park]], [[Homosassa Springs|Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park]] and [[Hernando County|Weeki Wachee Springs State Park]]. *Visit the '''[http://www.seminoletribe.com/ Seminole]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} or [http://miccosukeetribe.com/ Miccosukee]{{Dead link|date=March 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native American]] reservations''' throughout the state. Here you can find out about their history and culture, try their food, and gamble in the casinos on their land, which include several Hard Rock Casinos. *'''Go [[scuba diving]] or snorkeling''' through the many coral reefs, sunken vessels, and diverse array of sea life off of Florida's coasts. The most colorful fish can be seen in the tropical waters of [[Miami]] and further south. *'''Go hiking or [[wilderness backpacking|backpacking]]''' in the many state and national parks and forests that have nature trails suitable for hiking and camping. A particularly good option is the Florida National Scenic Trail, a network of 1400 miles (2253 km) of hiking trails throughout the state. The most popular section of the trail is the 110-mile (177-km) loop encircling Lake Okeechobee. *'''Go fishing''', with some of the best fishing action in the world (both salt and freshwater). Several large and tough fighting species such as Sailfish, Tarpon, and Largemouth Bass can be found lurking in water throughout the state. *'''Take a [[Cruise ships|Cruise]]''' from the Port of [[Miami]], [[Tampa]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], or [[Cape Canaveral]] on longer cruises run by the likes of Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line or [[Disney Cruise Line]]. There are also short nightly casino cruises in various places. *'''View a rocket launch''', which are visible from virtually anywhere in the Peninsula when skies are clear. But the best viewing is up-close from [[Cape Canaveral|Cape Canaveral's]] Kennedy Space Center, [[Cocoa Beach]], [[Canaveral National Seashore]], or [[Titusville (Florida)|Titusville]]. *Check out the '''Florida State Fair''', held every February near Tampa. It hosts an exposition of counties, where each Florida county has a display and a representative to answer questions. In addition, the fair has animal displays and shows, an exhibition dedicated to citrus, various dance & cheerleading competitions, and a large selection of rides and games. ==Buy== Florida is increasingly becoming a '''major destination for shopping'''. The [[Orlando]] and [[Miami]] areas are home to a plethora of shopping malls, including many outlet malls home to shops selling brand-name products for discounted prices. There are also a large number of stores selling souvenirs, although most are not locally produced. The [[Kissimmee]] area near Orlando, especially, has a much larger number of retail stores than is typical of U.S. cities. While traditionally these shops catered largely to American families on vacation, most now serve foreign shoppers who flock to these malls to buy products significantly cheaper than at home. It's not uncommon at some shopping malls in Orlando to encounter tourists from around the globe, especially on weekdays when most Americans are working. In the last few years, [[Brazil]] has become the largest source of international visitors to the state, with many coming on shopping group tours and sometimes wearing matching shirts. Due to this, major shopping centers in the Orlando and Miami areas now offer services in [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]]. Most goods for sale in the state are subject to sales tax. In most of the state the rate is 7%, but it varies from 6-7.5% (6% state sales tax and up to 1.5% local sales tax). This rate is almost never listed on the advertised or displayed prices. ==Eat== [[File:Florida orange grove.JPG|thumb|A typical Florida orange grove near [[Sebring]].]] Florida's cuisine is a mix of many influences and its styles vary across the state from North to South. [[North Florida]] has a more Southern style; [[South Florida]] a more Caribbean one. There specifically, early Spanish and African cuisines have been given a new spin with the impact of Cuban and other Caribbean cultures, as well as from "snowbirds" escaping the Northern U.S. winters. Being on a peninsula, Florida's chefs have always had access to fresh seafood, and the long growing season provides fresh native vegetables almost year round. *'''Citrus''' is a main export, and a tourist is apt to see many roadside stands offering free samples of orange juice and fruits to be shipped or carried home. Florida also grows grapefruit, avocado, mango, papaya, passion fruit, kumquat, coconut and other tropical fruits. These often provide the base for sauces and marinades and are also used in marmalades, soups, and desserts. Official state welcome centers located on I-10, I-75, and I-95 as you enter Florida offer free samples of orange juice to all visitors, a tradition that goes back decades. *'''Strawberries''' are another popular fruit in Florida. [[Plant City]], off I-4 east of [[Tampa]], is the center of the Florida strawberry industry, where during the peak season (Feb-Mar) many roadside vendors offer flats (16 pints/12 lb/5.4 kg) and half-flats of strawberries for a small fraction of grocery store prices. Since most stands are owned by the individual farmers, the fruit sold was often harvested that morning or the day before. Fresh Florida strawberries are a treat no tourist should miss, at least if you visit in-season. *'''Grouper''' is a very popular seafood caught in Florida's coastal waters. Fresh grouper is offered in many coastal cities, where local restaurants buy it straight from fishermen, and it is often served fried or grilled on a sandwich. State inspectors have cracked down to ensure that all restaurants offering "grouper" are in fact serving grouper, and not another less expensive white fish. Snapper, snook, tarpon, marlin, and shark are other Florida fish that you can find at coastal restaurants, although they are not nearly as ubiquitous as grouper. *'''Southern food''' is available throughout most of [[North Florida|North]] and [[Central Florida]]. Barbeque is popular throughout the state, with many small "barbeque shacks" to choose from. Any platter costing over $10 ($15 for ribs) should be avoided as the less expensive restaurants are almost always best. Sweet tea is also common throughout the state, although unlike most areas in the [[South (United States of America)|South]], you have a choice between sweet and unsweet tea. Boiled peanuts, which taste nothing like a regular peanut, can be found at roadside vendors and are certainly worth trying. Dishes such as fried chicken, grits, okra, biscuits & gravy, and collard greens can also be found in restaurants and buffets throughout the state. *'''Cuban food''' is common in the [[Miami]] and [[Tampa]] areas, with the most common dishes being the Cuban sandwich, flan, and black beans & rice. *'''Local specialties''', not readily available in many other locales, include '''alligator'''. It is healthy and most say it tastes like chicken, and it is often prepared like chicken nuggets. '''Key lime pie''', found elsewhere now, is a [[Florida Keys]] invention, made from the local key limes. Florida bans indoor smoking in restaurants, but it is allowed outdoors unless the establishment prohibits it.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Drink== [[File:MIAMI-ArtDeco-rj002.jpg|thumb|The art deco hotels and clubs of Miami's [[Miami Beach/South Beach|South Beach]].]] '''Alcoholic beverages''' abound throughout the state. However, five rural counties in the northern third of the state are "dry counties", and no alcohol is sold in them. Stand-alone liquor stores are often built into strip malls, supermarkets, and pharmacies, and most grocery stores, gas stations, and convenience stores sell beer and wine. '''Bars and clubs''' are popular throughout the state, with [[Miami Beach]] being well-known for a variety of themed and upscale bars with innovative mixed drinks. Unique bars and clubs can also be found in downtown [[Orlando]] and the nearby tourist areas closer to the theme parks and resorts of [[Walt Disney World|Disney]] and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]]. No visit to Florida is complete without a cup of their famous '''orange juice'''. Like every other U.S. state, the purchase and possession age for alcohol is 21 and it's fairly well enforced. Underage drinking "stings" are frequent in most tourist areas. Florida allows smoking in bars, including those that serve food, but the bar must get less than 10% of their revenue from food.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Sleep== == Respect == If you're using a boat or other vehicle, like a jetski, in the water, it may be necessary to significantly reduce speed in areas inhabited by manatees and/or dolphins. Fast-moving vehicles can cause harm to a manatee's respiratory system. Misuse of recreation areas has caused record manatee deaths in 2021. ==Connect== [[File:Siesta Key Beach TV-001-0002.jpg|thumb|The gentle white sands of Siesta Key]] ===Internet=== Essentially all '''hotels''' offer Wi-Fi internet access for guests, and almost always for free; some even have Ethernet ports for higher-speed wired connections. Many '''businesses''' also have free Wi-Fi. This even includes some clothing/department, grocery, and convenience stores in addition to the more typical restaurants and shopping malls. All the main airports have free Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi internet access is also available at '''public libraries'''. It's almost always free for everyone with their own device (laptop, smartphone, tablet). Computers set up for internet access by patrons require a username and password to access; nearly all libraries will issue a "guest pass" for non-cardholders, though there is occasionally a nominal fee. Use of library computers is subject to time limits which vary widely. The large majority of "internet cafes" in the state are actually nominally illegal casinos, set up for online gambling in an attempt to circumvent gambling laws. Such internet cafes do not have typical computers for general use. Instead, they are usually enclosed in a slot machine-style cover with only a few buttons to press, and set up to only view gambling websites. Patrons pay for short periods of time, sometimes using odd methods like buying prepaid phone cards. After a high-profile crackdown on an operator of dozens of such internet cafes, the state banned the opening of all new internet cafes in 2013. ==Stay safe== Dialing '''911''' at any telephone will reach the emergency services (police, fire, ambulance, etc.). Any phone connected to a U.S. network, regardless of whether or not it has a paid account, must be able to dial 911 if it is connected to the network, and such calls are always free. ===Crime=== Florida has varying crime intensity from city to city. In certain areas of the large cities it may not be safe to walk alone or even in small groups at night, although these are the exceptions and most of Florida is safe for visitors. Tourist areas rarely have violent crimes, but theft is an occasional occurrence. If the area doesn't feel safe, then it probably isn't. '''Clip joint''' operators who trick visitors into paying large amounts of money for low-quality services may use local police to shake down voyagers under a Florida law that requires bar and restaurant patrons pay a disputed bill first and take it up later with their credit card company. Avoid getting involved in '''road rage''' incidents while driving in Florida as firearms frequently get involved. If someone cuts you off on the highway (a frequent occurence) just let it go.<!-- http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/04/07/17-charged-south-beach-alcohol-scam.html --> ===Weather=== {{infobox|Extreme Temperatures|''Never leave children or pets in a parked car for any length of time!'' Due to the high temperatures most of the year, the interior of a parked car can easily heat to a '''lethal''' temperature very quickly. During the summer, the interior of a parked car can reach {{convert|130|to|170|F}} in just 15 minutes, regardless of the color of the exterior or interior, nor whether the windows are open a small amount. You not only risk their lives, but '''it is illegal''' and the consequences could be thousands in fines and even imprisonment. Vehicles left containing animals or children ''will'' be broken into by police or bystanders.}} Florida has a high occurrence of '''hurricanes''', though they don't hit the state every year. You might want to check the [[Cyclones|hurricane safety]] page if you are visiting Florida during the Hurricane Season, which runs June 1 to November 30. Few places in the world experience more frequent '''lightning strikes''' than Florida. The summer thunderstorms in Florida produce frequent lightning, which kills people each year and injures many more. Stay indoors during a thunderstorm and ''never'' seek shelter under a tree. Most casualties occur on golf courses, but lightning strikes everywhere. If you must go outdoors during a storm, try to stay away from any tall object, especially trees or anything made of metal. Occasionally, thunderstorms will bring '''hail, high winds, and [[Tornado safety|tornadoes]]'''. While the historical number of tornadoes in Florida is somewhat high, the overwhelming majority have occurred during hurricanes (Hurricane Jeanne alone spawned over 200 tornadoes in Florida). While some do occur during winter cold fronts and summer thunderstorms, 99% of them are weak (F-0/F-1). Thus, while statistics may suggest otherwise, tornadoes are not a big hazard in Florida. Watch where and when you swim. While the beaches are great they sometimes harbor '''rip currents, bacteria, and jellyfish'''. Always check with the lifeguard stand or ranger station before heading in if no one is in the water or if the waves are rough. '''Red tide''' is the name for harmful algal blooms that can occur on Florida's Gulf coast. They cause fish kills and water discoloration, and release toxins into the air that cause respiratory irritation. People with severe or chronic respiratory conditions, such as emphysema or asthma, should avoid areas where red tide is occurring. Swimming in water afflicted by red tide can cause skin and eye irritation and is not recommended. Heavy rain can make the roads dangerous. Although many highway drainage systems in Florida are well-designed by necessity, it can be almost impossible to see through your windshield during the worst rainstorms. Light and torrential rain can be a hundred feet apart, so when you hit heavy rain, it's common for vehicular traffic to slow to speeds as low as 20 mph if necessary, even on major interstates. However, there are a few drivers who ignore the protocol and drive fast anyway. Even though it's common, it's illegal to drive with hazard lights on in the rain. Use them only if you are completely stopped. ===Wildlife=== {{main|Dangerous animals}} '''Alligators''' are a threat throughout Florida (even in inland areas like [[Orlando]] and the [[Walt Disney World]]<!-- http://www.cnn.com/2016/06/15/us/alligator-attacks-child-disney-florida/index.html -->), and it should be assumed that they are present in ''all'' stagnant or slow moving freshwater. ''Never'' swim in any lakes or rivers unless signs tell you swimming is safe, and beware when approaching the water anywhere. Do not allow children or pets to approach the water's edge. '''Bears''' and '''Florida panthers''', common before the arrival of Europeans in Florida, are now both endangered in the state. If you do see either, back off slowly or keep your distance, and make yourself appear larger by waving your arms above your head. When hiking, make lots of noise to avoid startling an animal, and always keep small children close to you. Both species are endangered and protected under Florida law, and harassing or injuring one (even in a vehicle accident) will result in prosecution. [[Volusia County]] is known for a high number of '''shark attacks''', but they can occur anywhere in the state, so be careful when surfing. Even so, the number of attacks are less than 50, with a fatal attack every 2-3 years, amongst ''millions'' of visitors and residents who swim in the ocean. Swimming near dusk and dawn is the most hazardous. '''Lionfish''' are a poisonous and invasive fish that are now present on reefs throughout Florida. They can be identified by their red-and white striped bodies and poisonous spines. Stings are extremely painful and often require hospitalization. Due to their status as an invasive species, any sighting of lionfish should be reported to wildlife management authorities immediately. '''Jellyfish''' are also sometimes common at the beaches, and '''venomous snakes''' can be found year round across the state, so it is good to be wary of both. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== A large number of countries have consulates in and around [[Miami#Consulates|Miami]], with a much smaller number in [[Jacksonville#Consulates|Jacksonville]], [[Orlando#Consulates|Orlando]] and [[Tampa#Consulates|Tampa]]. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are available only in [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]. ==See also== * '''[[British Florida]]''' Although Florida was under Spanish control for most of its history prior to U.S. control, there was a brief period of 20 years during which it was a British colony. During British rule in the region, it was divided into two colonies: East Florida governed from St. Augustine, and West Florida governed from Pensacola. * '''[[Spanish Florida]]''' Prior to its annexation by the United States, Florida was a colony of Spain. From the founding of St. Augustine in 1565 to the collapse of their empire in the 1820s, the Spanish built forts, missions, and attempted to settle the subtropical, humid peninsula despite competition from other European powers. * '''[[Seminole Wars]]''', not as well known as the other wars in which the United States participated in the 19th century, were a significant development of the Indian Removal Wars. Conflicts between British, American, Spanish, and Seminole participants date back to the 18th century, but the most coordinated fighting took place between the Napoleonic Wars and the American Civil War. * '''[[Summer in Florida]]''' is a popular time to visit, for example for its theme parks, because it's when most North Americans have vacations. However, the climate during this period can make travel more complicated, unless your travels are carefully managed * '''[[East Central Regional Rail Trail]]''' is a recreational trail (and former rail trail) in Volusia County and the Space Coast that constitutes a part of Florida's Coast-to-Coast Trail. A paved trail, the route is popular with cyclists, as it crosses a variety of ecosystems and scenic areas including cypress groves, forests, and pine flatwoods. * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' ==Go next== * '''[[Alabama]]''' - North of the Panhandle is Alabama, with the historic port of [[Mobile]] and popular resort town [[Gulf Shores]] a short drive away from this region of Florida. * '''[[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]''' - Heading out of Florida to the north is Georgia, with the historic city of [[Savannah]] and the resort beaches of [[Jekyll Island]] close by. * '''[[Caribbean]]''' - The islands of the Caribbean are accessible by boat and plane from across Florida and offer a variety of both relaxing and adventure travel amidst a tropical paradise. For those interested in visiting the '''[[Bahamas]]''' (as the nearest country), many owners of small boats will make the day-long trip to the island chain, and several small airlines offer flights for under $70 each way. Other popular destinations in the Caribbean that are further from Florida by boat are '''[[Dominican Republic]], [[Puerto Rico]]''', and the '''[[Virgin Islands]]'''. * '''[[Colombia]]''' and '''[[Venezuela]]''' are the nearest countries in '''[[South America]]''' that are 3-4 hours away by plane, on a direct flight from [[South Florida]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]]. * '''[[Cancun]]''' and '''[[Merida (Mexico)|Merida]]''' on the [[Yucatán_and_the_South|Yucatán Peninsula]] are the nearest cities in Mexico from [[Miami International Airport|Miami]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]] that are a 2 hr 15 min away by plane. To go further into Mexico, [[Benito Juárez International Airport| Mexico City]] is 3 hr 40 min away from Miami or Orlando. * '''[[Central America]]''' is 2-3 hours on a plane from Miami, Ft Lauderdale and Orlando. <br />{{usableregion}} {{geo|28.1|-82.0|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|United_States}} {{related|Tornado_safety}} 2y7ddocmj0g25h3c07iawc6ocv9e1th 5288911 5288910 2026-06-06T17:07:32Z Anyone150 1516949 /* See also */ 5288911 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lummus_Park_Florida_banner.jpg}} {{otheruses}}'''Florida''' is the southernmost state in the continental [[United States of America]]. Known as "The Sunshine State", over a century ago it became a popular winter destination for the well-to-do from colder climates; it has grown to become the second-most visited state in the nation. Tourists have long been drawn to Florida by its white-sand beaches and unique and diverse cities. Since the mid-twentieth century, world-class theme parks and attractions have become a top draw as well. In the 21st century, Florida has become the preferred retirement destination for rich Americans from all over the country. The state's roots in agriculture are still relevant, with oranges being a chief export. Untouched natural landscapes teeming with wildlife exist in vast areas, sometimes very close to cities, and there are miles of rivers and trails for the intrepid visitor. Some of Florida's best secrets are charming small towns and other places in secluded locations, away from the crowded tourist areas but certainly worth seeing. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Florida Static Map.png | regionmaptext=Regions of Florida | regionmapsize=410px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[First Coast]] | region1color=#c68d98ff | region1items= | region1description=The end of the St. Johns River is the location of [[Jacksonville]], one of the largest cities in the state, and some coastal towns including America's oldest city, [[St. Augustine]]. | region2name=[[Volusia County]] | region2color=#a9a567ff | region2items= | region2description=A beach county, also known as the "Fun Coast," frequented by snowbirds, [[Inland Florida]] residents, and fans of the Daytona 500. | region3name=[[Space Coast]] | region3color=#c39dc3ff | region3items= | region3description=The [[Kennedy Space Center]], [[Cape Canaveral]], and some coastal towns to the south are within this region, which is synonymous with Brevard County. | region4name=[[Treasure Coast]] | region4color=#ffd0d0ff | region4items= | region4description=Between Miami and the rest of the Atlantic coast, there are some medium-sized cities here, but it is still more off the beaten path than the counties to the south. | region5name=[[Greater Miami]] | region5color=#4da9c4ff | region5items=[[Palm Beach County]], [[Broward County]], [[Miami-Dade County]] | region5description=Miami and its surroundings (called the "Gold Coast") are known for their ethnic diversity, proximity to Latin America, and tourist appeal along the many miles of beautiful beaches. | region6name=[[Florida Keys]] | region6color=#d5dc76ff | region6items= | region6description=A chain of islands off the southern tip of the peninsula, and one of the state's main tourist destinations with its breathtaking tropical beauty. | region7name=[[Florida West Coast]] | region7color=#80bb89ff | region7items=[[Big Bend Coast]], [[Tampa Bay Area]], [[Southwest Florida]] | region7description=Particularly in the north, more rural than its eastern counterpart, the western coast is known for its Tampa-St. Petersburg metro area and many beautiful beaches in the southwest of the state, with the [[Everglades]] separating the region from Miami. | region8name=[[Florida Panhandle]] | region8color=#d56d76ff | region8items=[[Emerald Coast]], [[Forgotten Coast]], [[Middle Florida]], [[West Florida]] | region8description=The Florida panhandle is a "Deep South" region of antebellum plantations, red hills, and white sand beaches. Cities include the state capital of Tallahassee, Destin, Pensacola, and Panama City Beach. | region9name=[[Inland Florida]] | region9color=#d8a55eff | region9items=[[North Central Florida]], [[Greater Orlando]], [[Lake County (Florida)|Lake County]], [[Polk County (Florida)|Polk County]], [[Florida Heartland]] | region9description=A few cities dot this mostly rural region, including the college town of [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], the theme parks of [[Orlando]], and small towns throughout the rest. }} ==Cities== Below is a selection of some of Florida's most notable cities. Other cities can be found under their specific regions. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tallahassee]]|url=|lat=30.455|long=-84.253333|wikidata=Q37043}} – The state capital and thriving college town home to three schools, including Florida State<!-- capital top, alphabetize the rest --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Fort Lauderdale]]|url=|lat=26.133333|long=-80.15|wikidata=Q165972}} – The "Venice of America" with its expansive canal system, also known for beaches and boating *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Jacksonville]]|url=|lat=30.336944|long=-81.661389|wikidata=Q16568}} – Sprawling city encompassing large beaches, world-class museums, and award-winning golf *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Miami]]|url=|lat=25.775278|long=-80.208889|wikidata=Q8652}} – The center of Caribbean and Latin American culture, famed for its beachfront nightclubs *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Orlando]]|url=|lat=28.415833|long=-81.298889|wikidata=Q49233}} – The theme park capital of the world also features exciting dining, a lively arts scene, and ample recreation *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pensacola]]|url=|lat=30.433333|long=-87.2|wikidata=Q486306}} – White-sand beaches draw tourists to this town of ancient shipwrecks and military fighter jets *{{marker|type=city|name=[[St. Augustine]]|url=|lat=29.894722|long=-81.314444|wikidata=Q487988}} – The oldest city in the country is home to two more-than 400-year-old Spanish forts, restaurants, and shops *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tampa]]|url=|lat=27.968056|long=-82.476389|wikidata=Q49255}} – Large Gulf Coast metro area home to bustling nightlife as well as famed natural sites *{{marker|type=city|name=[[West Palm Beach]]|url=|lat=26.709722|long=-80.064167|wikidata=Q163749}} – Ritzy town home to the rich & famous, featuring high-end shopping and beautiful beaches ==Other destinations== [[File:Eudocimus albus (foraging).jpg|thumb|American white ibis at the Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area in [[Everglades National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Amelia Island]]|url=|lat=30.615556|long=-81.453889|wikidata=Q461578}} – Historic island at the north end of the state, with excellent golf resorts and a lively downtown *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Biscayne National Park]]|url=|lat=25.469444|long=-80.186111|wikidata=Q866080}} – A massive marine park protecting a wide range of animals and coral reefs *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Canaveral National Seashore]]|url=|lat=28.7675|long=-80.776944|wikidata=Q5031230}} – The longest stretch of unspoiled beach on the Atlantic coast, near rocket launches *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Everglades National Park]]|url=|lat=25.3125|long=-80.6875|wikidata=Q274131}} – Massive, vital, and delicate ecosystem protecting a great variety of plants and animals *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Florida Keys]]|url=|lat=24.666944|long=-81.544167|wikidata=Q537749}} – Chain of islands stretching into the Caribbean, offering tropical scenery and a laid-back lifestyle *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gulf Islands National Seashore]]|url=|lat=30.364444|long=-86.9675|wikidata=Q3120743}} – 12 islands along the Gulf Coast, featuring excellent beaches and sea turtles *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ocala National Forest]]|url=|lat=29.173611|long=-81.821667|wikidata=Q2013302}} – Extensive inland forest giving visitors a taste of old Florida charm *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Walt Disney World]]|url=|lat=28.385233|long=-81.563874|wikidata=Q206859}} – The "happiest place on earth", encompassing 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, and countless other amenities There are also articles on aspects of the state's history: [[Spanish Florida]] and [[Seminole Wars]]. ==Understand== While Florida is considered to be part of the [[South (United States of America)|South]], it originated not as a British colony, but as a Spanish one. As a result, the state has a unique history. Although Florida was a founding member of the Confederate States of America, and like other Southern states shared the experience of slavery and racial segregation during its history, today, Florida is a '''very diverse''' state, and contains a number of regions with slight cultural differences of their own that contribute to the state's diversity. Therefore, no one accent dominates in the speech of its residents, and it's often said that Florida is the only state that gets more "Southern" the farther ''north'' you go, and that is indeed true in a cultural sense. For a long time, Florida had been a swing state in presidential elections, almost evenly divided between Republicans and Democrats. However, a large influx of retirees in the 21st century has swung the political balance in favor of the Republicans as of the 2020s. ===History=== {{see also|Spanish Florida|British Florida}} Florida was inhabited by [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native Americans]] for over 13,000 years before the arrival of European explorers, colonists and slavers. It is estimated that there were some 350,000 inhabitants, of many tribes, when the Spanish explorer '''Juan Ponce de León''' arrived in 1513 in search of, according to legend, the Fountain of Youth. The first European settlement dates back to the 1560s with [[St. Augustine]], established in 1565, holding the distinction of being the oldest permanent European settlement in what is now the United States. However, this early settlement did not lead to the same level of rapid colonization that took place in the British colonies to the north, as the climate made large-scale settlement, especially inland, difficult for Europeans who were used to milder climates. Attempted settlements by Europeans, such as the [[New Smyrna Beach]] colony owned by a British man who employed former inhabitants of the Balearic Islands, were not always successful as challenges of climate and disease took their toll on the residents, who themselves ultimately moved to [[St. Augustine]]. From this time onward the state would not see large-scale economic and population expansion until Florida's statehood in the 19th century, when agriculture &mdash; including notably orange trees &mdash; and later tourism would achieve important roles in the state's economy. Along with the climate challenges, battles and competing claims for the region posed a challenge to the region's settlers. However, many Africans and African-Americans moved to Florida during the territory's early years because King Charles of Spain had issued a royal proclamation freeing all slaves who fled to [[Spanish Florida]], if they converted to Catholicism. {{Infobox|Shooting for the Stars|A source of pride and joy in Florida is its outsize role in the history of [[space exploration]]. Cape Canaveral began to be used for missile launches in 1949, and following President John F. Kennedy's vow to put American astronauts on the Moon before the end of the 1960s, early space flights took place there on converted missiles. The most important launches by NASA, including the Apollo 11 moon launch watched around the world in 1969, have taken place at the John F. Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral. Unfortunately, however, to make way for the creation of the space center, many residents of the Cape Canaveral region, including some African-Americans, were required by the government to leave Cape Canaveral, and little remains of the settlements that once existed in the Cape Canaveral region.}} Native Americans, including members of the Calusa tribe, fought effectively to defend their tribal lands from European colonization of the region; therefore it was some time before Europeans established colonies. However, once Europeans took control of the Florida region, oppression and killing of '''Native Americans''' &mdash; often as a result of war or disease &mdash; was tragic as it was in many other regions of the Americas. Following substantial depopulation of the state's native tribes, the Seminole tribe moved in and established themselves in Florida in the 18th century, though several conflicts between the Spanish, attempting to maintain Florida, and Americans attempting to annex the region, made an already disputed territory's political situation complex for Native Americans and settlers. Native Americans living in Florida fought hard and continued to guard their independence after Spanish Florida was ceded to the United States in 1821. The new territory of the U.S. was a slave plantation economy, much like the rest of the South at the time; the Seminoles gladly welcomed runaway slaves and accepted them into their tribe. However, after the [[Seminole Wars|Second Seminole War]], almost the entire tribe was deported west of the Mississippi River as part of the [[Trail of Tears]]. Florida was admitted to the Union as a slave state in 1845, but seceded and joined the '''Confederacy''' with the rest of the South in 1861. Largely untouched by the [[American Civil War]], the state enforced Jim Crow segregation laws against its then very large (approximately 44%) black population for a century after the Confederates' defeat. By the early 20th century, Florida had more lynchings per capita than any other state. However, there were three '''20th-century migrations''' that fundamentally changed the character of Florida, to the extent that many people no longer consider much of the state to be culturally Southern: the move of one-fifth of the state's African-American population to the Northern United States as part of the Great Migration during the first decades of the 20th century; the arrival of an increasing number of white retirees from the North after the spread of air conditioning in the 1950s; and the arrival of several waves of Cuban immigrants after the victory of Fidel Castro in 1959, who established themselves primarily in South Florida, particularly [[Miami-Dade County|Dade County]]. Florida has also seen major influxes of Latino immigrants from Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Central and South America, and Mexico, and there have also been many Haitian immigrants. ===Culture=== [[File:The Call-Collins House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida (7157983334).jpg|thumb|The Call-Collins Plantation House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida ]] Florida is geographically the southernmost of the contiguous United States, and it is a '''unique blend''' of societies. The [[Florida Panhandle]], much of [[North Florida]], rural areas of [[Central Florida]], and the [[Florida Heartland]] remain part of the cultural region of [[South (United States of America)|the South]], where you will find traditional southern cooking, entertainment, dialect, and lifestyles, much as you would expect in states like [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] or [[Alabama]]. Generally, the further south you go in the state, the more unlike the South it seems, and although Southern culture can be found in every region of the state, it is not always prevalent. Cities such as [[Tampa]] and [[Orlando]] offer the feel of the South, alongside many other cultures. There are a lot of Southerners in these areas, but also many people who are from other areas like the [[Midwest]] or the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. [[Miami]], on the other hand, is unique in that it feels like a cross between an American metropolis and a major Latin American city (like [[Rio de Janeiro|Rio]] or [[São Paulo]]). There are some Seminole Native American reservations and villages throughout southern Florida, namely in the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]], and their indigenous culture can be experienced by visiting a shop and browsing arts and crafts. The southernmost [[Florida Keys]] offer yet another flavor, full of the casual, slow-paced atmosphere of beach life. In short, Florida is a full-fledged region of the [[United States]] in its own right.[[File:Miami Beach FL Arch Dist Collins Ave down south01.jpg|thumb|267x267px|A view south on Collins Avenue in the [[Miami Beach/South Beach|Miami Beach Architectural District]]]] Much of the southern part of Florida is inhabited by people of Hispanic or Latino origin. The region that is substantially to in places majority Hispanic or Latino extends north to Orlando. There are large Cuban and Puerto Rican populations in [[Miami]] and the south side of [[Greater Orlando]], respectively. The white population is higher to the north, and by the northern border with Georgia and Alabama, the Hispanic/Latino population is very low. The Black or African-American population is primarily on the mainland and throughout the state, with historically Black communities and history in the [[Daytona Beach]] metro area, [[Jacksonville]], and Gadsden County in the Panhandle. The ethnic diversity of Florida, while not particularly cosmopolitan outside of certain urban centers, has contributed substantially to the culture, with Spanish spoken in some areas, but in the north, a tendency toward American cuisine and English language exists with few alternatives and much of the population of this region are known by outsiders as "rednecks." There are smaller communities of ethnic minorities including those of Anglo- or Franco-Caribbean or Middle Eastern origin, but these have a smaller impact on the state's culture than the largest ethnic groups. Due to a combination of factors, despite the state's high urbanization relative to many other Southern states, it does not lean as "liberal" as many comparably urban and ethnically diverse states in the North. The state is considered to be on the tipping point between left and right, but despite the prominently right-wing government that scraped through the 2018 elections, the state as a whole is middle of the road for the U.S. Orlando, state capital [[Tallahassee]], [[Fort Lauderdale]] and college town [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] lean left while most of Miami, [[Tampa]]-[[St Petersburg]], southwest Florida, parts of the east coast and rural inland and Panhandle lean conservative when compared with demographically similar communities in other parts of the country. However, almost all regions of the state are politically diverse. ===Landscape=== Florida's '''coastline is world class''', with several gorgeous beaches, bays, and estuaries. The Floridian landscape is extremely flat, however, with lakes and wetlands scattered throughout most of the state, though a mixture of ecosystems distract from the lack of topography. The only exceptions are parts of Highlands, Polk, Lake, and a few other counties in the center of the state where rolling hills are common. The highest point in the state is the {{ft|345}} Britton Hill on the Panhandle, and the {{ft|298}} Iron Mountain in Polk County is the highest point on the Peninsula. Florida's cities tend to be big, sprawling, and well-developed, but not as close to each other as an atlas might imply. Despite being a densely-populated state, there are fortunately still several expanses of wilderness left, although these are often near or between populated urban areas. Some rural parts of the state grow citrus and sugar cane, but farmland tends to be in regions outside the usual tourist areas. The [[Florida Panhandle]] and most of [[North Florida]] consist of farmland and pine trees, but as you travel south, you'll see more wetlands and urbanization, culminating at the Everglades in the far south of the state near Miami. The [[Florida Keys]] are a small chain of tropical islands with their own unique geography. ===Climate=== [[Image:Frances 2004-09-05 1815Z.jpg|thumb|293x293px|right|Hurricane Frances makes landfall on the morning of September 5, 2004 near Stuart. Its impact, however, was felt throughout Central Florida and most of Florida's east coast.]] Florida is known around the world for warm and sunny weather and this has led to the state being a major tourist destination. Florida has the mildest winters on the US mainland, and retirees and temporary residents known as "snowbirds", flock to the state in the cold season. Coastal areas experience gentle breezes during the summer, and the beach is usually the coolest place to be. While those coastal breezes are a welcome relief from the scorching temperatures, they are also the cause of a well-known Florida weather feature: '''thunderstorms'''. While the storms are often brief, they are common, and anyone visiting Florida during the rainy season (mid-June to September) should plan a few indoor activities in the afternoons as a backup. Florida's thunderstorms occur every day during the rainy season and typically form 20-30mi (32-48km) inland and either move toward the center of the state or toward the coast. Due to this, rain can be occurring just a few miles inland from the coast, while those at the beach experience a beautiful day. While the storms cool the air, bringing a welcome though often short relief to stifling temperatures, many produce considerable amounts of '''dangerous lightning''' and some bring hail, high winds of 50 mph (80 km/h) or more, and tornadoes. See the "stay safe" section for thunderstorm safety. Many tourist areas, such as [[Walt Disney World]], have multiple attractions available even during downpours. The spring is the driest time of the year, leading to wildfires nearly every May and early June. The six-month '''[[Hurricane safety|hurricane]] season''' runs from June 1 through November 30 and Floridians have learned to be ready when a storm threatens the area. If you plan on visiting during the months of June through November and especially during the peak of the hurricane season from August through October, stay aware of the news and weather advisories. Information is available from the [http://www.nhc.noaa.gov National Hurricane Center]. Cyclones are unlikely but possible in the month of May. From June through October is the hot and wet season in Florida. High temperatures are often in the 80s to 90s F (30-32 C) and lows in the 70s (24 C). Heat indices typically range between {{F|75}} and {{F|97}}, but on some of the hottest days, the heat indices can climb to {{F|107}} and not go below {{F|80}} at night. The Bermuda High pumps in hot and unstable tropical air from the Bahamas and Gulf of Mexico, which help create the daily thundershowers that are typical in summer months in Florida. Intense but very brief downpours are common in summer in much of Florida. Normally, the wet season starts to fade by early November in northern Florida and reaches southern Florida by late November. From December through April the weather in much is Florida is mild and often dry. The dry season (or winter) is often the driest and most sunny season in Florida, Average high temperatures range from the low 60's in northern Florida to the mid 70's F in far southern Florida. Overnight lows fall to the middle 40's in northern Florida to near 60 F in far southern Florida. A few times each winter, a strong cold front may drop temperatures to near freezing across northern Florida, though in many years there is no freeze at all from central Florida southward. In the driest months, Florida often has long periods of rain-less weather, and by April drought conditions with brush fires and water restrictions are sometimes in place. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitflorida.com/ Visit Florida] website ==Talk== '''English''' is the official language of the state. However, [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]] is the native language of approximately 20% of Florida residents, and the further south you go, the more Spanish speakers there will be. In some parts of [[South Florida]], Spanish is the preferred language in everyday activities. [[Miami]] is most notable, where nearly 80% of residents do not speak English as their native language and 30% do not speak any English at all. [[Tampa]] also has a sizable Spanish-speaking population, and neighborhoods where it is almost exclusively spoken. Like anywhere where there is a large presence of another language, expect Spanish words or expressions used or calqued into everyday English. Gullah, a distinctive English-based creole, is spoken by some African-American communities along the northeastern coast, near the border with Georgia. Native-born non-Hispanic Floridians from the northern part of the state will usually speak with a Southern accent. However, after the migration of millions of Americans from all over the country to the central and southern parts of the state, the Southern dialect is becoming diluted with other accents. Residents of Miami often speak in a distinctive accent with strong influences from Cuban Spanish. ==Get in== [[Image:Orlando International Airport hotel rooms.jpg|227x227px|thumb|A full-service Marriott hotel is directly within Orlando International Airport]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Air travel in the United States}} *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Orlando International Airport]]|wikidata=Q929859}} ({{IATA|MCO}}) - your choice airport for [[Disney World]] and the other attractions in [[Central Florida]]. Located south of downtown [[Orlando]], this airport offers tons of car rentals and free shuttles to Disney and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]] for visitors. Being centrally located it serves as a hub or focus city for Jetblue, Frontier, and Southwest Airlines. There are international connections from South America, Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, Europe and the Middle East. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Miami International Airport]]|wikidata=Q127530}} ({{IATA|MIA}}) - the biggest airport for travel in [[South Florida]], it's the best option for trips to the [[Everglades]] or [[Miami|Miami's]] beaches. The airport is a hub for American Airlines and the most popular entry point with a wide variety of flights from Europe, South America, Central America, the Caribbean, Cuba and Mexico. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Tampa#By plane|Tampa International Airport]]|wikidata=Q571536}} ({{IATA|TPA}}) - serves the Gulf Coast, namely the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area. There are direct flights offered from all over the U.S. and from a number of international destinations in Canada, Cuba, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Fort Lauderdale#By plane|Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport]]|wikidata=Q635361}} ({{IATA|FLL}}) - the fourth-largest airport in Florida, and another valid option to consider with many domestic low-fare carriers such as Allegiant, JetBlue, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Jacksonville#By plane|Jacksonville International Airport]]|wikidata=Q1431579}} ({{IATA|JAX}}) - primary airport for travel in [[North Florida]], serving [[Amelia Island]] and historic [[St. Augustine]]. Other large airports can be found in [[Pensacola]], [[Fort Myers]], [[Tallahassee]], [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]]/[[Clearwater]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Sarasota]], [[Key West]], [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], [[Melbourne (Florida)|Melbourne]], and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]]. There are many more airports throughout Florida that may get you closer to your destination; watch for these smaller airports while researching your destination. ===By car=== [[File:Brickell skyline 2012.jpg|thumb|The skyline of [[Miami/Brickell|Brickell, Miami]]|240x240px]] Three [[Driving in the United States|Interstate highways]] connect Florida with adjacent states: * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|Interstate 10 (I-10)]]''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and passes through the center of the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]] and across [[North Florida]] until its terminus in Jacksonville. Interstate 10 is most convenient for travelers from [[Louisiana]], [[Texas]], and areas farther west. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' also enters Florida from Georgia and passes through the center of the state until the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area, after which it follows the Gulf of Mexico coast (10-20 mi/16-32 km inland) to [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], where it heads due east across the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]] to Fort Lauderdale. Interstate 75 is most convenient for travelers arriving from [[Atlanta]] and the [[Midwest]]. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] just north of [[Jacksonville]] and parallels the Atlantic coast, never more than 25 miles inland, until its terminus south of downtown [[Miami]]. Interstate 95 provides the most convenient route for people from the East Coast, [[New England]], eastern parts of [[Canada]]. Jacksonville, [[Daytona Beach]], and the Miami-[[Fort Lauderdale]]-[[West Palm Beach]] area are all serviced by I-95, with access to [[Orlando]] provided via Interstate 4. * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''I-4''' does not cross any state line but is still called an interstate. It crosses the state from Gulf to East coast, passing from Tampa in the west through Orlando and ending at the western boundary of Daytona Beach. It curves to the north on its easternmost segment. The road, particularly on the north side of Orlando, is notoriously dangerous, and the frequent thunderstorms in addition to ongoing road work don't help with this concern. The speeds on this road are high and speed limits are ignored by most, but as a quick route there are few comparable alternatives and it does a good job of connecting the suburbs. Additional major highways entering Florida include: * [[File:US 1.svg|link=US Route 1#Florida|22px]] '''[[US Route 1|US-1]]''' enters Florida north of Jacksonville and snakes along the east coast between Interstate 95 and the Intracoastal Waterway/Atlantic Ocean. Unlike I-95, US 1 continues past Miami and is routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US-27''' enters Florida from western Georgia and provides access to the state capital, [[Tallahassee]], before routing through mostly rural areas of the peninsula. Down the center of the state between Florida's Turnpike and Miami, US 27 is a primary trucking route, and as such this route can be a hassle while dealing with heavy traffic. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US-98''' enters Florida near Pensacola and remains close to the Gulf of Mexico coast until the Panhandle meets the Florida peninsula at the "Big Bend" area. Unlike I-10 to the north, which runs through the interior of the Panhandle away from the coast, US 98 provides a scenic drive and convenient access to the beaches. After leaving the Panhandle, US 98 runs diagonally down the peninsula to West Palm Beach through primarily rural areas. * [[File:US 231.svg|22px]] '''US-231''' enters Florida from Alabama and crosses the Panhandle north-south to its southern terminus at [[Panama City Beach]]. US 231 provides convenient access to the Panhandle from the Midwest via it connection with Interstate 65 in [[Montgomery]]. * [[File:US 301.svg|22px]] '''I-301''' enters Florida just north of Jacksonville and was once the main route from the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. It is a very scenic alternative to I-95 with a lot less traffic. Exiting I-95 at Santee, [[South Carolina]] motorists can follow US 301 through Georgia and into Florida and connect to I-95 again in Jacksonville for Atlantic coast destinations, or continue on to join I-75 at [[Ocala]] for Tampa and the Gulf coast. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to Florida from neighboring states and from the major airports in the states. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''[[Florida#By_bus_2|By bus]]'' under ''Get around'' for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By train=== [[Rail travel in the United States|Amtrak]] has two services to Florida: *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/auto-train.html Amtrak Auto Train]''' ''(Trains #52 & 53)'' carries passengers and automobiles between [[Lorton]], [[Virginia]] and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford, Florida]] (north of [[Orlando]]), effectively serving as a car-rail link to Florida from the [[Washington, D.C.]] metro area. This train makes no stops between Lorton & Sanford and is a way to cut back on the extra mileage and wear and tear on the car. *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/silver-service-palmetto-train.html Amtrak Silver Service]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92 and #97 & 98 respectively)'' are two routes that both begin in [[New York City]] and end in [[Miami]]. The trains follow the same route heading to Florida, except in [[North Carolina|North]] and [[South Carolina]]. Within the state, the trains run the same line from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Kissimmee]]. There, they split again, and the Silver Star (Trains #91 & 92) diverges to head west towards [[Lakeland]] and [[Tampa]] while the Silver Meteor (Trains #97 & 98) continues south towards [[Winter Haven]]. Both routes meet again further south and serve the rest of the stations along Florida's east coast to Miami. ===By boat=== Florida is possibly the largest state for [[Cruise ships|cruise ship]] vacations in the United States. [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Tampa]], [[Miami]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] are all popular starting ports, with cruises heading throughout the [[Caribbean]]. There are also many short-term casino cruises that depart from [[Pinellas County]] and around [[South Florida]]. [http://www.ferryexpress.com/ Ferry service]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is also available to and from the [[Bahamas]], with service between [[Fort Lauderdale]] and [[Freeport (Bahamas)|Freeport]], and between Miami and [[Bimini]]. ==Get around== [[File:Overseas Highway bridge.jpg|thumb|The Overseas Highway to Key West.]] ===By car=== Traveling by car is the most common and most convenient way to get around the state for travelers and locals alike. For the traveler car rental agencies are abound in Florida and many are available at every major airport. [[Orlando]], in particular, is known as the "Car Rental Capital of the World". With Florida being the most visited state in the US, car rental rates here are among (if not) the lowest rates in the country due to sheer volume. '' '''Florida's major highways include:''' '' * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 4 (I-4)''' crosses diagonally from [[Tampa]], heads east through [[Plant City]] and [[Lakeland]], then continues northeast past [[Kissimmee]], [[Walt Disney World]], and [[Orlando]], before ending at Interstate 95 near [[Daytona Beach]]. Interstate 4 is the most travelled highway in Florida and due to the large volume of traffic, high speeds (70 mph,112 km/h outside of urban areas), construction, and large number of tourists it is also the most dangerous highway in the state, in terms of the number of accidents. * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] & [[File:US 90.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|I-10]]''' and '''US-90''' enter Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and travels across the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]], past [[Tallahassee]] and [[Lake City]], and through rural [[North Florida]] to its terminus at I-95 in Jacksonville. US Hwy 90 straddles I-10 through the northern Florida Panhandle, going through the cities and towns as a local surface street/highway while I-10 goes straight through bypassing the cities and towns. US Hwy 90 continues past the I-95 corridor in downtown Jacksonsville and ends at FL A1A at Jacksonville Beach. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' enters Florida from Georgia and runs south through the center of the peninsula past [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] and [[Ocala]] before crossing just east of Tampa, where it then parallels the Gulf coast past [[Bradenton]], [[Sarasota]], [[Fort Myers]], and [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], after which it travels due east across the [[Everglades]] (a section known as 'Alligator Alley') to the Miami suburbs. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]], north of [[Jacksonville]], and travels down the Atlantic coast past [[St. Augustine]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Vero Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] before ending at US 1 just south of downtown [[Miami]]. * [[File:Florida's_Turnpike_shield.svg|link=https://www.floridasturnpike.com|22px]] The '''[https://floridasturnpike.com/ Florida Turnpike]''' is a toll road that runs from I-75 south of Ocala, through Orlando, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale before ending south of Miami. It provides the easiest access to Orlando and southeast Florida for persons entering the state via I-75 or I-10. * [[File:I-275.svg|22px]] '''I-275''' is a secondary Interstate that runs from I-75 north of the Tampa area, past downtown Tampa and [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], where it crosses the 5.5-mile-long (8.8km), 193 foot-tall (58.8m) Sunshine Skyway Bridge before it rejoins I-75 south of Bradenton. Interstate 75 ''does not'' provide access to these areas, it instead passes through rural and suburban areas 10 miles east of Tampa. * [[File:US 1.svg|22px]] '''[[US Route 1#Florida|US-1]]''' is a historic and scenic highway that travels down the Atlantic coast between I-95 and the ocean before being routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:Florida A1A.svg|22px]] '''FL-A1A''' runs parallel to US Hwy 1 as the coastal highway along the east coast. It serves the beach communities as a local street (such as Collins Ave in Miami Beach or Ocean Dr in Ft Lauderdale) in the offshore islands/keys along the entire east coast. It is fragmented and does not run continuously from South Beach to Fernadina Beach. It runs concurrent on US Hwy 1 in places where it is not a separate road. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US 27''' is a well-traveled alternative to Florida's Turnpike and runs from Miami, along Lake Okeechobee and through the mostly-rural [[Florida Heartland|Heartland]] of Florida before continuing through Ocala, Gainesville, and Tallahassee. * [[File:US 41.svg|22px]] '''US 41''' runs west from Miami on a scenic 2-lane journey through the Everglades, and then travels along the Gulf Coast, around the east side of Tampa Bay, and north into Georgia. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US 98''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] at Pensacola and travels a very scenic route along the Gulf Coast of the Panhandle, after which it continues diagonally across the peninsula to its terminus in West Palm Beach. ===By plane=== Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state especially between South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) and the Panhandle (Pensacola and Tallahassee) while others will be relatively short (Ft Lauderdale to Orlando). '''[http://www.atlanticairlines.com/ Atlantic Airlines]''', '''[https://www.allegiantair.com Allegiant]''' (Key west to St Petersburg & Sanford); '''[https://www.flybreeze.com Breeze]''', '''[http://www.aa.com American Airlines/American Eagle]''', '''[https://www.flyfrontier.com Frontier]''', '''[https://www.JetBlue.com JetBlue]''', and '''[https://www.southwest.com/ Southwest]''' offer intrastate flights between cities in Florida. ===By bus=== The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There is fairly frequent service from Orlando (as a 'de-facto' hub) to Naples (via Tampa Bay, Ft Myers); South Florida (W Palm Peach, Ft Lauderdale, Miami); Jacksonville (via Daytona Beach, Ft Pierce); and the Panhandle (via Gainesville, Ocala, Tallahassee) with multiple companies. Others offer connections to the Keys through Miami-Dade and north towards Jacksonville along I-95 without going through Orlando. Check schedules. Many of the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns are not listed, check the article of your destination and the schedules of the company for all the transportation options. Information on transit (local public transportation) can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]: * {{go | name=Greyhound Lines / Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-231-2222 | hours= | price= | content=Connects South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) to Tampa, Naples and Jacksonville through Orlando with onward connections to Atlanta, Savannah, Houston and other cities north from Orlando. They also operate a less frequent service from Miami to Tampa via Belle Glade, Clewiston and Ft Myers. They also go south to Key West via the Florida Keys from Miami and north towards Jacksonville from Miami along I-95. Check schedules. }} * {{go | name=Jet Set Express | alt= | url=https://www.miamiorlando.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407 649-4994 | tollfree= | hours=Venue at stop open 24/7 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-29 | content=Thrice Daily departures to Ft Pierce, Kissimmee, Orlando from the Miami. Check schedules for a listing of other stops which are serviced once or twice daily. }} * {{go | name=Keys Shuttle | alt= | url=http://www.keysshuttle.com/ | email= | address=| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-289-9997 | tollfree=+1-888-765-9997 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-12 | content=The company provides door-to-door service to the Keys from the Miami and Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airports (and vice versa). }} * {{go | name=La Cubana Express | alt= | url=https://lacubanaxpress.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-541-1700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-27 | content=Connects Miami to New York City through Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Washington, DC; Elkton, Maryland; Philadelphia and New Jersey on a single route. In Florida they serve Miami, Ft Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Deltona and Jacksonville. }} * {{go | name=Our Bus | alt=Operated by different bus companies on contract to Our Bus | url=https://ourbus.com/ | email= | address=Terminal B of the Port of Miami Cruise Terminal | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 844 800-6828 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Fares range from $10 to $22 or more | content=Operates service between the Miami Cruise Terminals, Ft Lauderdale Airport, Tampa, Sarasota and Ft Myers. }} * {{go | name=Redcoach | alt= | url=https://www.redcoachusa.com/florida/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407-851-2843 | tollfree=+1-877-733-0724 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-22 | content=Service from Tallahassee to Miami via Ocala, Gainesville and Ft Lauderdale. One branch go through Orlando through Ft Pierce, W Palm Beach and Pompano Beach. Another go through Tampa, Ft Myers and Naples. }} There are a number of local and regional public transportation agencies that offer intercity bus services throughout the state. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]. ===By train=== *[[File:Brightline Train At Ft Lauderdale Station.jpg|thumb|251x251px|A Brightline train at the station in Fort Lauderdale.]]'''[https://www.amtrak.com/silver-service-palmetto-train Amtrak Silver Star]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92)'' and '''Silver Meteor''' ''(Trains #97 & 98)'' - This is a relatively expensive option but will suffice if other means are not possible. Both routes span from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Miami]]. While the two routes are slightly different, they both stop at the following stations: [[Jacksonville]], [[Palatka]], [[DeLand]], [[Winter Park (Florida)|Winter Park]], [[Orlando]], [[Kissimmee]], [[Winter Haven]], [[Sebring]], [[Okeechobee]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Delray Beach]], [[Deerfield Beach]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], [[Hollywood (Florida)|Hollywood]], and [[Miami]]. The slight difference between the two routes is that the Silver Star detours to [[Lakeland]] (to/from the north only) and [[Tampa]] (to/from the south only) while the Silver Meteor proceeds directly to Winter Haven from Kissimmee. * {{listing | name=Sun Rail | alt= | url=http://www.sunrail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 724-5411 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 5AM-11:30PM | price=$2-5 one way | wikipedia=SunRail | wikidata=Q3503715 | lastedit=2019-01-06 | content=Sun Rail is a north-south train on weekdays through [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]], Orlando, and Kissimmee, from Poinciana at its southern end, and DeBary at its northern end. Bus connection is provided from Orlando International Airport to the Sand Lake Road station by Linx routes 11, 42 and 111; and from Orlando-Sanford International Airport to the Sanford station by Linx route 46E. }} * {{listing | name=Tri-Rail | alt= | url=http://www.tri-rail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 954 783-6030 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 4AM-11:35PM (different weekends) | price=$2.50-11.55 for one-day pass |wikipedia=|wikidata=|image=| lastedit=2019-02-24 | content=The regional rail for South Florida with a single 18-station route from its north end at Mangonia Park, through Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach to its south end Miami Airport. It runs the same route as the Amtrak Silver Service from Miami to West Palm Beach with the same shared stops at West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood. This train is connected to Miami International Airport by the MIA Mover shuttle train, to the Fort Lauderdale Airport by a shuttle bus, and to the West Palm Beach Airport by Palm Transit bus route 42 or 44 and the Tri-Rail Shuttle Bus. }} * {{listing | name=Brightline | alt= | url=http://gobrightline.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Several departures daily | price=$20-350 roundtrip | lastedit=2024-03-30 | content=A private railroad running passenger trains since early 2018, initially between Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, with service to Miami added in the summer of 2018. An extension to Orlando International Airport from West Palm Beach was opened in 2023. Plans are underway to continue the route from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World, and eventually to Tampa. Brightline trains operate on separate tracks and stations than Amtrak and local commuter trains (which are shared with each other). }} ===By ferry=== A high speed ferry service, the '''[http://www.seakeywestexpress.com Key West Express],''' operates from the cities of [[Fort Myers]] and [[Marco Island]] with daily service to the Historic Seaport district of [[Key West]]. The ferry ride takes approximately 3½ hours and the Fort Myers vessels have a capacity exceeding 300 passengers. Amenities include outdoor sundecks, flat-screen TVs, galley service and a full bar. ==See== [[Image:Gatorland.JPG|thumb|right|Gatorland in Orlando.|206x206px]]The {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/ Kennedy Space Center]|wikidata=Q6389687|lat=|long=}} in [[Cape Canaveral]] was America's spaceport for the manned missions to the Moon and the Space Shuttle. The Visitor Complex contains spacecraft displays, two IMAX movies, the Astronaut's Hall of Fame, exhibits chronicling the history and future of space exploration, and a Space Shuttle Launch Experience.[[Image:FL-PonceInletLighthouse.jpg|thumb|The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse in [[Ponce Inlet]].|221x221px]]Florida has a long and complex history and is worth visiting for those interested in [[historical travel]]. {{marker|type=see|name=[[St. Augustine]]|wikidata=Q487988}}, founded by the Spanish in 1565, is the United States' oldest permanent European settlement. It contains a large colonial fort, multiple attractions and site detailing its history, countless restaurants and bars, and plenty of shops in its small, walkable downtown. '''[[Florida Lighthouses|Florida's Lighthouses]]''' are numerous, historic, and beautiful; take some time to visit these iconic images of the coast. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.flholocaustmuseum.org/ The Florida Holocaust Museum]|wikidata=Q884852|lat=|long=}} in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], this is one of the largest Holocaust museums in the U.S. and exhibits a box car used by Nazis to transport prisoners to extermination camps like [[Auschwitz]]. {{Marker|type=see|name=[http://www.salvadordalimuseum.org/ Salvador Dalí Museum]|wikidata=Q674427|lat=|long=}}, also in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|St. Petersburg]], is the largest collection of Dalí artwork outside of Europe. [[Sports]] are popular in the state of Florida, and particularly well-known is {{marker|type=see|name=Daytona International Speedway|wikidata=Q1179250}} near FL-92 and I-95 in [[Daytona Beach]]. The famous speedway venue is home of the number one event in stock car racing, NASCAR's Daytona 500 (February), along with other events throughout the year. '''[[Baseball in the United States#Spring Training|Spring Training baseball]]''' occurs throughout the state in late February and March, and offers the ability to watch your favorite players for discount prices (front row tickets can be purchased as low as $15-20) and in smaller, more intimate venues. {{marker|type=see|name=Sunshine Skyway Bridge|wikidata=Q2302271}} is the longest cable-stayed bridge in the world and an engineering masterpiece crossing the mouth of Tampa Bay. Two long fishing piers beside the bridge, the approaches of the previous bridge, are renowned among local fishermen and provide a less expensive alternative for saltwater fishing. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.ybor.org/ Ybor City]|wikidata=Q3572050|lat=|long=}} (pronounced ee-bor) is one of the largest party districts in the country, with countless bars, restaurants, clubs, and cigar stores, located near downtown [[Tampa]], easily accessible by car or with the free and historic streetcar service. Ybor City has a very historic and authentic feel, with a combination of Latin and Italian influence. Not just a nightlife district, however, with many cultural sights and restaurants open during the day. ===Wildlife=== {{see also|Marine life|Natural springs in Florida}} [[File:Alligator on the St Johns River.jpg|thumb|One of Florida's famous [[Dangerous animals#Alligators and crocodiles|alligators]]]] Alligators, crocodiles, manatees, bears, armadillos, dolphins, spoonbills...Florida's diverse array of habitats are home to a variety of wild animals. Alligators and their relatives can be seen in captivity at the Alligator Farm in [[Saint Augustine]], and the {{marker|type=see|name=Saint John's River|wikidata=Q1677915}}, which was expanded to better accommodate riverboats, is also an excellent place to see wildlife. An abundance of marinas and boat tours that exist in the cities north of Orlando have access to this river. It's lined with trees of various species, along with a variety of bird life. To see wild alligators, try [[Everglades National Park]] or [[Myakka River State Park]], and you can see manatees at [[Blue Spring State Park]] or [[Hernando County#Do|Weeki Wachee Springs]]. {{marker|type=see|name=Gatorland|wikidata=Q689585}} in [[Orlando]] is full of Florida's most unique animal and is one of the oldest tourist attractions in the state. Unfortunately, with all the exotic wildlife come a host of insects, especially during the May-October period. These are often encountered outdoors, especially in forested areas, during the summer and are attracted by that season's hot, humid weather, so if you visit between May and early fall, expect to encounter mosquitoes or even "lovebugs". Lovebugs, which are typically seen for just a few weeks during spring and fall, are completely harmless except for the mess they make on moving cars, and are so named because they are seen in pairs. Even more developed areas, if near forests, can attract mosquitoes. Along with the fauna is flora in its abundance (and variety) due to the warm and wet climate. === Itineraries === * '''[[U.S. Highway 1#Florida|US-1]]''' and '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|Interstate 10]]''' go through the state. * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' crosses a portion of Lake Ashby in Volusia County, Florida, before entering the rainforest. * '''[[East Central Regional Rail Trail]]''' is a recreational trail (and former rail trail) in Volusia County and the Space Coast that constitutes a part of Florida's Coast-to-Coast Trail. A paved trail, the route is popular with cyclists, as it crosses a variety of ecosystems and scenic areas including cypress groves, forests, and pine flatwoods. == Do == [[File:Spaceship Earth at night.jpg|thumb|The world-famous Spaceship Earth at Walt Disney World's [[Walt Disney World/Epcot|Epcot]] theme park.]] {{quote|If you can't find something to do in Florida, you're just boring|author=Guy Fieri|source=[https://web.archive.org/web/20170214011958/http://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do/food/dining/interview-guy-fieri-talks-new-projects-criticism-and-the-triple-d-effect/2312870 as quoted in the ''Tampa Bay Times'']}} * '''Go to the beach!''' You have numerous options here: [[Panama City Beach]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[New Smyrna Beach]], [[St. Pete Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]] and [[Siesta Key]] are some of the best. * Visit Florida's world class '''theme parks and water parks'''. **'''[[Walt Disney World]]''' - The most visited resort in the world, home to four theme parks, two water parks, and shopping, dining, and hotels galore. **[[Universal Orlando|'''Universal Orlando''']] - Disney World's biggest competitor, these three theme parks are home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. **'''SeaWorld''' in [[Orlando]] and '''Legoland''' in nearby [[Winter Haven]]. **'''Busch Gardens''' in [[Tampa]]. *Visit '''[[Everglades National Park]]''', a place like no other on Earth, and take an airboat ride through the swamps. A drive across the Everglades on US 41 is a great way to get a sense of the park's size and scenery. Check out [[Everglades City]] for great attractions. *Explore some of the more than 150 '''[http://www.floridastateparks.org/ Florida State Parks]'''. The only three-time winner of the National Recreation and Park Association's Gold Medal for state park systems. Get a Florida State Parks Annual Pass for free admission to most of the state parks, or discounted admission at [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Skyway Fishing Pier State Park]], [[Homosassa Springs|Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park]] and [[Hernando County|Weeki Wachee Springs State Park]]. *Visit the '''[http://www.seminoletribe.com/ Seminole]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} or [http://miccosukeetribe.com/ Miccosukee]{{Dead link|date=March 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native American]] reservations''' throughout the state. Here you can find out about their history and culture, try their food, and gamble in the casinos on their land, which include several Hard Rock Casinos. *'''Go [[scuba diving]] or snorkeling''' through the many coral reefs, sunken vessels, and diverse array of sea life off of Florida's coasts. The most colorful fish can be seen in the tropical waters of [[Miami]] and further south. *'''Go hiking or [[wilderness backpacking|backpacking]]''' in the many state and national parks and forests that have nature trails suitable for hiking and camping. A particularly good option is the Florida National Scenic Trail, a network of 1400 miles (2253 km) of hiking trails throughout the state. The most popular section of the trail is the 110-mile (177-km) loop encircling Lake Okeechobee. *'''Go fishing''', with some of the best fishing action in the world (both salt and freshwater). Several large and tough fighting species such as Sailfish, Tarpon, and Largemouth Bass can be found lurking in water throughout the state. *'''Take a [[Cruise ships|Cruise]]''' from the Port of [[Miami]], [[Tampa]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], or [[Cape Canaveral]] on longer cruises run by the likes of Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line or [[Disney Cruise Line]]. There are also short nightly casino cruises in various places. *'''View a rocket launch''', which are visible from virtually anywhere in the Peninsula when skies are clear. But the best viewing is up-close from [[Cape Canaveral|Cape Canaveral's]] Kennedy Space Center, [[Cocoa Beach]], [[Canaveral National Seashore]], or [[Titusville (Florida)|Titusville]]. *Check out the '''Florida State Fair''', held every February near Tampa. It hosts an exposition of counties, where each Florida county has a display and a representative to answer questions. In addition, the fair has animal displays and shows, an exhibition dedicated to citrus, various dance & cheerleading competitions, and a large selection of rides and games. ==Buy== Florida is increasingly becoming a '''major destination for shopping'''. The [[Orlando]] and [[Miami]] areas are home to a plethora of shopping malls, including many outlet malls home to shops selling brand-name products for discounted prices. There are also a large number of stores selling souvenirs, although most are not locally produced. The [[Kissimmee]] area near Orlando, especially, has a much larger number of retail stores than is typical of U.S. cities. While traditionally these shops catered largely to American families on vacation, most now serve foreign shoppers who flock to these malls to buy products significantly cheaper than at home. It's not uncommon at some shopping malls in Orlando to encounter tourists from around the globe, especially on weekdays when most Americans are working. In the last few years, [[Brazil]] has become the largest source of international visitors to the state, with many coming on shopping group tours and sometimes wearing matching shirts. Due to this, major shopping centers in the Orlando and Miami areas now offer services in [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]]. Most goods for sale in the state are subject to sales tax. In most of the state the rate is 7%, but it varies from 6-7.5% (6% state sales tax and up to 1.5% local sales tax). This rate is almost never listed on the advertised or displayed prices. ==Eat== [[File:Florida orange grove.JPG|thumb|A typical Florida orange grove near [[Sebring]].]] Florida's cuisine is a mix of many influences and its styles vary across the state from North to South. [[North Florida]] has a more Southern style; [[South Florida]] a more Caribbean one. There specifically, early Spanish and African cuisines have been given a new spin with the impact of Cuban and other Caribbean cultures, as well as from "snowbirds" escaping the Northern U.S. winters. Being on a peninsula, Florida's chefs have always had access to fresh seafood, and the long growing season provides fresh native vegetables almost year round. *'''Citrus''' is a main export, and a tourist is apt to see many roadside stands offering free samples of orange juice and fruits to be shipped or carried home. Florida also grows grapefruit, avocado, mango, papaya, passion fruit, kumquat, coconut and other tropical fruits. These often provide the base for sauces and marinades and are also used in marmalades, soups, and desserts. Official state welcome centers located on I-10, I-75, and I-95 as you enter Florida offer free samples of orange juice to all visitors, a tradition that goes back decades. *'''Strawberries''' are another popular fruit in Florida. [[Plant City]], off I-4 east of [[Tampa]], is the center of the Florida strawberry industry, where during the peak season (Feb-Mar) many roadside vendors offer flats (16 pints/12 lb/5.4 kg) and half-flats of strawberries for a small fraction of grocery store prices. Since most stands are owned by the individual farmers, the fruit sold was often harvested that morning or the day before. Fresh Florida strawberries are a treat no tourist should miss, at least if you visit in-season. *'''Grouper''' is a very popular seafood caught in Florida's coastal waters. Fresh grouper is offered in many coastal cities, where local restaurants buy it straight from fishermen, and it is often served fried or grilled on a sandwich. State inspectors have cracked down to ensure that all restaurants offering "grouper" are in fact serving grouper, and not another less expensive white fish. Snapper, snook, tarpon, marlin, and shark are other Florida fish that you can find at coastal restaurants, although they are not nearly as ubiquitous as grouper. *'''Southern food''' is available throughout most of [[North Florida|North]] and [[Central Florida]]. Barbeque is popular throughout the state, with many small "barbeque shacks" to choose from. Any platter costing over $10 ($15 for ribs) should be avoided as the less expensive restaurants are almost always best. Sweet tea is also common throughout the state, although unlike most areas in the [[South (United States of America)|South]], you have a choice between sweet and unsweet tea. Boiled peanuts, which taste nothing like a regular peanut, can be found at roadside vendors and are certainly worth trying. Dishes such as fried chicken, grits, okra, biscuits & gravy, and collard greens can also be found in restaurants and buffets throughout the state. *'''Cuban food''' is common in the [[Miami]] and [[Tampa]] areas, with the most common dishes being the Cuban sandwich, flan, and black beans & rice. *'''Local specialties''', not readily available in many other locales, include '''alligator'''. It is healthy and most say it tastes like chicken, and it is often prepared like chicken nuggets. '''Key lime pie''', found elsewhere now, is a [[Florida Keys]] invention, made from the local key limes. Florida bans indoor smoking in restaurants, but it is allowed outdoors unless the establishment prohibits it.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Drink== [[File:MIAMI-ArtDeco-rj002.jpg|thumb|The art deco hotels and clubs of Miami's [[Miami Beach/South Beach|South Beach]].]] '''Alcoholic beverages''' abound throughout the state. However, five rural counties in the northern third of the state are "dry counties", and no alcohol is sold in them. Stand-alone liquor stores are often built into strip malls, supermarkets, and pharmacies, and most grocery stores, gas stations, and convenience stores sell beer and wine. '''Bars and clubs''' are popular throughout the state, with [[Miami Beach]] being well-known for a variety of themed and upscale bars with innovative mixed drinks. Unique bars and clubs can also be found in downtown [[Orlando]] and the nearby tourist areas closer to the theme parks and resorts of [[Walt Disney World|Disney]] and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]]. No visit to Florida is complete without a cup of their famous '''orange juice'''. Like every other U.S. state, the purchase and possession age for alcohol is 21 and it's fairly well enforced. Underage drinking "stings" are frequent in most tourist areas. Florida allows smoking in bars, including those that serve food, but the bar must get less than 10% of their revenue from food.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Sleep== == Respect == If you're using a boat or other vehicle, like a jetski, in the water, it may be necessary to significantly reduce speed in areas inhabited by manatees and/or dolphins. Fast-moving vehicles can cause harm to a manatee's respiratory system. Misuse of recreation areas has caused record manatee deaths in 2021. ==Connect== [[File:Siesta Key Beach TV-001-0002.jpg|thumb|The gentle white sands of Siesta Key]] ===Internet=== Essentially all '''hotels''' offer Wi-Fi internet access for guests, and almost always for free; some even have Ethernet ports for higher-speed wired connections. Many '''businesses''' also have free Wi-Fi. This even includes some clothing/department, grocery, and convenience stores in addition to the more typical restaurants and shopping malls. All the main airports have free Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi internet access is also available at '''public libraries'''. It's almost always free for everyone with their own device (laptop, smartphone, tablet). Computers set up for internet access by patrons require a username and password to access; nearly all libraries will issue a "guest pass" for non-cardholders, though there is occasionally a nominal fee. Use of library computers is subject to time limits which vary widely. The large majority of "internet cafes" in the state are actually nominally illegal casinos, set up for online gambling in an attempt to circumvent gambling laws. Such internet cafes do not have typical computers for general use. Instead, they are usually enclosed in a slot machine-style cover with only a few buttons to press, and set up to only view gambling websites. Patrons pay for short periods of time, sometimes using odd methods like buying prepaid phone cards. After a high-profile crackdown on an operator of dozens of such internet cafes, the state banned the opening of all new internet cafes in 2013. ==Stay safe== Dialing '''911''' at any telephone will reach the emergency services (police, fire, ambulance, etc.). Any phone connected to a U.S. network, regardless of whether or not it has a paid account, must be able to dial 911 if it is connected to the network, and such calls are always free. ===Crime=== Florida has varying crime intensity from city to city. In certain areas of the large cities it may not be safe to walk alone or even in small groups at night, although these are the exceptions and most of Florida is safe for visitors. Tourist areas rarely have violent crimes, but theft is an occasional occurrence. If the area doesn't feel safe, then it probably isn't. '''Clip joint''' operators who trick visitors into paying large amounts of money for low-quality services may use local police to shake down voyagers under a Florida law that requires bar and restaurant patrons pay a disputed bill first and take it up later with their credit card company. Avoid getting involved in '''road rage''' incidents while driving in Florida as firearms frequently get involved. If someone cuts you off on the highway (a frequent occurence) just let it go.<!-- http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/04/07/17-charged-south-beach-alcohol-scam.html --> ===Weather=== {{infobox|Extreme Temperatures|''Never leave children or pets in a parked car for any length of time!'' Due to the high temperatures most of the year, the interior of a parked car can easily heat to a '''lethal''' temperature very quickly. During the summer, the interior of a parked car can reach {{convert|130|to|170|F}} in just 15 minutes, regardless of the color of the exterior or interior, nor whether the windows are open a small amount. You not only risk their lives, but '''it is illegal''' and the consequences could be thousands in fines and even imprisonment. Vehicles left containing animals or children ''will'' be broken into by police or bystanders.}} Florida has a high occurrence of '''hurricanes''', though they don't hit the state every year. You might want to check the [[Cyclones|hurricane safety]] page if you are visiting Florida during the Hurricane Season, which runs June 1 to November 30. Few places in the world experience more frequent '''lightning strikes''' than Florida. The summer thunderstorms in Florida produce frequent lightning, which kills people each year and injures many more. Stay indoors during a thunderstorm and ''never'' seek shelter under a tree. Most casualties occur on golf courses, but lightning strikes everywhere. If you must go outdoors during a storm, try to stay away from any tall object, especially trees or anything made of metal. Occasionally, thunderstorms will bring '''hail, high winds, and [[Tornado safety|tornadoes]]'''. While the historical number of tornadoes in Florida is somewhat high, the overwhelming majority have occurred during hurricanes (Hurricane Jeanne alone spawned over 200 tornadoes in Florida). While some do occur during winter cold fronts and summer thunderstorms, 99% of them are weak (F-0/F-1). Thus, while statistics may suggest otherwise, tornadoes are not a big hazard in Florida. Watch where and when you swim. While the beaches are great they sometimes harbor '''rip currents, bacteria, and jellyfish'''. Always check with the lifeguard stand or ranger station before heading in if no one is in the water or if the waves are rough. '''Red tide''' is the name for harmful algal blooms that can occur on Florida's Gulf coast. They cause fish kills and water discoloration, and release toxins into the air that cause respiratory irritation. People with severe or chronic respiratory conditions, such as emphysema or asthma, should avoid areas where red tide is occurring. Swimming in water afflicted by red tide can cause skin and eye irritation and is not recommended. Heavy rain can make the roads dangerous. Although many highway drainage systems in Florida are well-designed by necessity, it can be almost impossible to see through your windshield during the worst rainstorms. Light and torrential rain can be a hundred feet apart, so when you hit heavy rain, it's common for vehicular traffic to slow to speeds as low as 20 mph if necessary, even on major interstates. However, there are a few drivers who ignore the protocol and drive fast anyway. Even though it's common, it's illegal to drive with hazard lights on in the rain. Use them only if you are completely stopped. ===Wildlife=== {{main|Dangerous animals}} '''Alligators''' are a threat throughout Florida (even in inland areas like [[Orlando]] and the [[Walt Disney World]]<!-- http://www.cnn.com/2016/06/15/us/alligator-attacks-child-disney-florida/index.html -->), and it should be assumed that they are present in ''all'' stagnant or slow moving freshwater. ''Never'' swim in any lakes or rivers unless signs tell you swimming is safe, and beware when approaching the water anywhere. Do not allow children or pets to approach the water's edge. '''Bears''' and '''Florida panthers''', common before the arrival of Europeans in Florida, are now both endangered in the state. If you do see either, back off slowly or keep your distance, and make yourself appear larger by waving your arms above your head. When hiking, make lots of noise to avoid startling an animal, and always keep small children close to you. Both species are endangered and protected under Florida law, and harassing or injuring one (even in a vehicle accident) will result in prosecution. [[Volusia County]] is known for a high number of '''shark attacks''', but they can occur anywhere in the state, so be careful when surfing. Even so, the number of attacks are less than 50, with a fatal attack every 2-3 years, amongst ''millions'' of visitors and residents who swim in the ocean. Swimming near dusk and dawn is the most hazardous. '''Lionfish''' are a poisonous and invasive fish that are now present on reefs throughout Florida. They can be identified by their red-and white striped bodies and poisonous spines. Stings are extremely painful and often require hospitalization. Due to their status as an invasive species, any sighting of lionfish should be reported to wildlife management authorities immediately. '''Jellyfish''' are also sometimes common at the beaches, and '''venomous snakes''' can be found year round across the state, so it is good to be wary of both. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== A large number of countries have consulates in and around [[Miami#Consulates|Miami]], with a much smaller number in [[Jacksonville#Consulates|Jacksonville]], [[Orlando#Consulates|Orlando]] and [[Tampa#Consulates|Tampa]]. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are available only in [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]. ==See also== The following are additional Wikivoyage articles regarding the history and itinerary of Florida: * '''[[British Florida]]''' Although Florida was under Spanish control for most of its history prior to U.S. control, there was a brief period of 20 years during which it was a British colony. During British rule in the region, it was divided into two colonies: East Florida governed from St. Augustine, and West Florida governed from Pensacola. * '''[[Spanish Florida]]''' Prior to its annexation by the United States, Florida was a colony of Spain. From the founding of St. Augustine in 1565 to the collapse of their empire in the 1820s, the Spanish built forts, missions, and attempted to settle the subtropical, humid peninsula despite competition from other European powers. * '''[[Seminole Wars]]''', not as well known as the other wars in which the United States participated in the 19th century, were a significant development of the Indian Removal Wars. Conflicts between British, American, Spanish, and Seminole participants date back to the 18th century, but the most coordinated fighting took place between the Napoleonic Wars and the American Civil War. * '''[[Summer in Florida]]''' is a popular time to visit, for example for its theme parks, because it's when most North Americans have vacations. However, the climate during this period can make travel more complicated, unless your travels are carefully managed * '''[[East Central Regional Rail Trail]]''' is a recreational trail (and former rail trail) in Volusia County and the Space Coast that constitutes a part of Florida's Coast-to-Coast Trail. A paved trail, the route is popular with cyclists, as it crosses a variety of ecosystems and scenic areas including cypress groves, forests, and pine flatwoods. * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' crosses a portion of Lake Ashby in Volusia County, Florida, before entering the rainforest ==Go next== * '''[[Alabama]]''' - North of the Panhandle is Alabama, with the historic port of [[Mobile]] and popular resort town [[Gulf Shores]] a short drive away from this region of Florida. * '''[[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]''' - Heading out of Florida to the north is Georgia, with the historic city of [[Savannah]] and the resort beaches of [[Jekyll Island]] close by. * '''[[Caribbean]]''' - The islands of the Caribbean are accessible by boat and plane from across Florida and offer a variety of both relaxing and adventure travel amidst a tropical paradise. For those interested in visiting the '''[[Bahamas]]''' (as the nearest country), many owners of small boats will make the day-long trip to the island chain, and several small airlines offer flights for under $70 each way. Other popular destinations in the Caribbean that are further from Florida by boat are '''[[Dominican Republic]], [[Puerto Rico]]''', and the '''[[Virgin Islands]]'''. * '''[[Colombia]]''' and '''[[Venezuela]]''' are the nearest countries in '''[[South America]]''' that are 3-4 hours away by plane, on a direct flight from [[South Florida]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]]. * '''[[Cancun]]''' and '''[[Merida (Mexico)|Merida]]''' on the [[Yucatán_and_the_South|Yucatán Peninsula]] are the nearest cities in Mexico from [[Miami International Airport|Miami]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]] that are a 2 hr 15 min away by plane. To go further into Mexico, [[Benito Juárez International Airport| Mexico City]] is 3 hr 40 min away from Miami or Orlando. * '''[[Central America]]''' is 2-3 hours on a plane from Miami, Ft Lauderdale and Orlando. <br />{{usableregion}} {{geo|28.1|-82.0|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|United_States}} {{related|Tornado_safety}} edyvqcyhnmosgncupwepbi658g7zowx 5288912 5288911 2026-06-06T17:11:30Z Anyone150 1516949 /* See also */ 5288912 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lummus_Park_Florida_banner.jpg}} {{otheruses}}'''Florida''' is the southernmost state in the continental [[United States of America]]. Known as "The Sunshine State", over a century ago it became a popular winter destination for the well-to-do from colder climates; it has grown to become the second-most visited state in the nation. Tourists have long been drawn to Florida by its white-sand beaches and unique and diverse cities. Since the mid-twentieth century, world-class theme parks and attractions have become a top draw as well. In the 21st century, Florida has become the preferred retirement destination for rich Americans from all over the country. The state's roots in agriculture are still relevant, with oranges being a chief export. Untouched natural landscapes teeming with wildlife exist in vast areas, sometimes very close to cities, and there are miles of rivers and trails for the intrepid visitor. Some of Florida's best secrets are charming small towns and other places in secluded locations, away from the crowded tourist areas but certainly worth seeing. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Florida Static Map.png | regionmaptext=Regions of Florida | regionmapsize=410px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[First Coast]] | region1color=#c68d98ff | region1items= | region1description=The end of the St. Johns River is the location of [[Jacksonville]], one of the largest cities in the state, and some coastal towns including America's oldest city, [[St. Augustine]]. | region2name=[[Volusia County]] | region2color=#a9a567ff | region2items= | region2description=A beach county, also known as the "Fun Coast," frequented by snowbirds, [[Inland Florida]] residents, and fans of the Daytona 500. | region3name=[[Space Coast]] | region3color=#c39dc3ff | region3items= | region3description=The [[Kennedy Space Center]], [[Cape Canaveral]], and some coastal towns to the south are within this region, which is synonymous with Brevard County. | region4name=[[Treasure Coast]] | region4color=#ffd0d0ff | region4items= | region4description=Between Miami and the rest of the Atlantic coast, there are some medium-sized cities here, but it is still more off the beaten path than the counties to the south. | region5name=[[Greater Miami]] | region5color=#4da9c4ff | region5items=[[Palm Beach County]], [[Broward County]], [[Miami-Dade County]] | region5description=Miami and its surroundings (called the "Gold Coast") are known for their ethnic diversity, proximity to Latin America, and tourist appeal along the many miles of beautiful beaches. | region6name=[[Florida Keys]] | region6color=#d5dc76ff | region6items= | region6description=A chain of islands off the southern tip of the peninsula, and one of the state's main tourist destinations with its breathtaking tropical beauty. | region7name=[[Florida West Coast]] | region7color=#80bb89ff | region7items=[[Big Bend Coast]], [[Tampa Bay Area]], [[Southwest Florida]] | region7description=Particularly in the north, more rural than its eastern counterpart, the western coast is known for its Tampa-St. Petersburg metro area and many beautiful beaches in the southwest of the state, with the [[Everglades]] separating the region from Miami. | region8name=[[Florida Panhandle]] | region8color=#d56d76ff | region8items=[[Emerald Coast]], [[Forgotten Coast]], [[Middle Florida]], [[West Florida]] | region8description=The Florida panhandle is a "Deep South" region of antebellum plantations, red hills, and white sand beaches. Cities include the state capital of Tallahassee, Destin, Pensacola, and Panama City Beach. | region9name=[[Inland Florida]] | region9color=#d8a55eff | region9items=[[North Central Florida]], [[Greater Orlando]], [[Lake County (Florida)|Lake County]], [[Polk County (Florida)|Polk County]], [[Florida Heartland]] | region9description=A few cities dot this mostly rural region, including the college town of [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], the theme parks of [[Orlando]], and small towns throughout the rest. }} ==Cities== Below is a selection of some of Florida's most notable cities. Other cities can be found under their specific regions. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tallahassee]]|url=|lat=30.455|long=-84.253333|wikidata=Q37043}} – The state capital and thriving college town home to three schools, including Florida State<!-- capital top, alphabetize the rest --> *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Fort Lauderdale]]|url=|lat=26.133333|long=-80.15|wikidata=Q165972}} – The "Venice of America" with its expansive canal system, also known for beaches and boating *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Jacksonville]]|url=|lat=30.336944|long=-81.661389|wikidata=Q16568}} – Sprawling city encompassing large beaches, world-class museums, and award-winning golf *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Miami]]|url=|lat=25.775278|long=-80.208889|wikidata=Q8652}} – The center of Caribbean and Latin American culture, famed for its beachfront nightclubs *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Orlando]]|url=|lat=28.415833|long=-81.298889|wikidata=Q49233}} – The theme park capital of the world also features exciting dining, a lively arts scene, and ample recreation *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pensacola]]|url=|lat=30.433333|long=-87.2|wikidata=Q486306}} – White-sand beaches draw tourists to this town of ancient shipwrecks and military fighter jets *{{marker|type=city|name=[[St. Augustine]]|url=|lat=29.894722|long=-81.314444|wikidata=Q487988}} – The oldest city in the country is home to two more-than 400-year-old Spanish forts, restaurants, and shops *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tampa]]|url=|lat=27.968056|long=-82.476389|wikidata=Q49255}} – Large Gulf Coast metro area home to bustling nightlife as well as famed natural sites *{{marker|type=city|name=[[West Palm Beach]]|url=|lat=26.709722|long=-80.064167|wikidata=Q163749}} – Ritzy town home to the rich & famous, featuring high-end shopping and beautiful beaches ==Other destinations== [[File:Eudocimus albus (foraging).jpg|thumb|American white ibis at the Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area in [[Everglades National Park]]]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Amelia Island]]|url=|lat=30.615556|long=-81.453889|wikidata=Q461578}} – Historic island at the north end of the state, with excellent golf resorts and a lively downtown *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Biscayne National Park]]|url=|lat=25.469444|long=-80.186111|wikidata=Q866080}} – A massive marine park protecting a wide range of animals and coral reefs *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Canaveral National Seashore]]|url=|lat=28.7675|long=-80.776944|wikidata=Q5031230}} – The longest stretch of unspoiled beach on the Atlantic coast, near rocket launches *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Everglades National Park]]|url=|lat=25.3125|long=-80.6875|wikidata=Q274131}} – Massive, vital, and delicate ecosystem protecting a great variety of plants and animals *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Florida Keys]]|url=|lat=24.666944|long=-81.544167|wikidata=Q537749}} – Chain of islands stretching into the Caribbean, offering tropical scenery and a laid-back lifestyle *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gulf Islands National Seashore]]|url=|lat=30.364444|long=-86.9675|wikidata=Q3120743}} – 12 islands along the Gulf Coast, featuring excellent beaches and sea turtles *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ocala National Forest]]|url=|lat=29.173611|long=-81.821667|wikidata=Q2013302}} – Extensive inland forest giving visitors a taste of old Florida charm *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Walt Disney World]]|url=|lat=28.385233|long=-81.563874|wikidata=Q206859}} – The "happiest place on earth", encompassing 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, and countless other amenities There are also articles on aspects of the state's history: [[Spanish Florida]] and [[Seminole Wars]]. ==Understand== While Florida is considered to be part of the [[South (United States of America)|South]], it originated not as a British colony, but as a Spanish one. As a result, the state has a unique history. Although Florida was a founding member of the Confederate States of America, and like other Southern states shared the experience of slavery and racial segregation during its history, today, Florida is a '''very diverse''' state, and contains a number of regions with slight cultural differences of their own that contribute to the state's diversity. Therefore, no one accent dominates in the speech of its residents, and it's often said that Florida is the only state that gets more "Southern" the farther ''north'' you go, and that is indeed true in a cultural sense. For a long time, Florida had been a swing state in presidential elections, almost evenly divided between Republicans and Democrats. However, a large influx of retirees in the 21st century has swung the political balance in favor of the Republicans as of the 2020s. ===History=== {{see also|Spanish Florida|British Florida}} Florida was inhabited by [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native Americans]] for over 13,000 years before the arrival of European explorers, colonists and slavers. It is estimated that there were some 350,000 inhabitants, of many tribes, when the Spanish explorer '''Juan Ponce de León''' arrived in 1513 in search of, according to legend, the Fountain of Youth. The first European settlement dates back to the 1560s with [[St. Augustine]], established in 1565, holding the distinction of being the oldest permanent European settlement in what is now the United States. However, this early settlement did not lead to the same level of rapid colonization that took place in the British colonies to the north, as the climate made large-scale settlement, especially inland, difficult for Europeans who were used to milder climates. Attempted settlements by Europeans, such as the [[New Smyrna Beach]] colony owned by a British man who employed former inhabitants of the Balearic Islands, were not always successful as challenges of climate and disease took their toll on the residents, who themselves ultimately moved to [[St. Augustine]]. From this time onward the state would not see large-scale economic and population expansion until Florida's statehood in the 19th century, when agriculture &mdash; including notably orange trees &mdash; and later tourism would achieve important roles in the state's economy. Along with the climate challenges, battles and competing claims for the region posed a challenge to the region's settlers. However, many Africans and African-Americans moved to Florida during the territory's early years because King Charles of Spain had issued a royal proclamation freeing all slaves who fled to [[Spanish Florida]], if they converted to Catholicism. {{Infobox|Shooting for the Stars|A source of pride and joy in Florida is its outsize role in the history of [[space exploration]]. Cape Canaveral began to be used for missile launches in 1949, and following President John F. Kennedy's vow to put American astronauts on the Moon before the end of the 1960s, early space flights took place there on converted missiles. The most important launches by NASA, including the Apollo 11 moon launch watched around the world in 1969, have taken place at the John F. Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral. Unfortunately, however, to make way for the creation of the space center, many residents of the Cape Canaveral region, including some African-Americans, were required by the government to leave Cape Canaveral, and little remains of the settlements that once existed in the Cape Canaveral region.}} Native Americans, including members of the Calusa tribe, fought effectively to defend their tribal lands from European colonization of the region; therefore it was some time before Europeans established colonies. However, once Europeans took control of the Florida region, oppression and killing of '''Native Americans''' &mdash; often as a result of war or disease &mdash; was tragic as it was in many other regions of the Americas. Following substantial depopulation of the state's native tribes, the Seminole tribe moved in and established themselves in Florida in the 18th century, though several conflicts between the Spanish, attempting to maintain Florida, and Americans attempting to annex the region, made an already disputed territory's political situation complex for Native Americans and settlers. Native Americans living in Florida fought hard and continued to guard their independence after Spanish Florida was ceded to the United States in 1821. The new territory of the U.S. was a slave plantation economy, much like the rest of the South at the time; the Seminoles gladly welcomed runaway slaves and accepted them into their tribe. However, after the [[Seminole Wars|Second Seminole War]], almost the entire tribe was deported west of the Mississippi River as part of the [[Trail of Tears]]. Florida was admitted to the Union as a slave state in 1845, but seceded and joined the '''Confederacy''' with the rest of the South in 1861. Largely untouched by the [[American Civil War]], the state enforced Jim Crow segregation laws against its then very large (approximately 44%) black population for a century after the Confederates' defeat. By the early 20th century, Florida had more lynchings per capita than any other state. However, there were three '''20th-century migrations''' that fundamentally changed the character of Florida, to the extent that many people no longer consider much of the state to be culturally Southern: the move of one-fifth of the state's African-American population to the Northern United States as part of the Great Migration during the first decades of the 20th century; the arrival of an increasing number of white retirees from the North after the spread of air conditioning in the 1950s; and the arrival of several waves of Cuban immigrants after the victory of Fidel Castro in 1959, who established themselves primarily in South Florida, particularly [[Miami-Dade County|Dade County]]. Florida has also seen major influxes of Latino immigrants from Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Central and South America, and Mexico, and there have also been many Haitian immigrants. ===Culture=== [[File:The Call-Collins House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida (7157983334).jpg|thumb|The Call-Collins Plantation House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida ]] Florida is geographically the southernmost of the contiguous United States, and it is a '''unique blend''' of societies. The [[Florida Panhandle]], much of [[North Florida]], rural areas of [[Central Florida]], and the [[Florida Heartland]] remain part of the cultural region of [[South (United States of America)|the South]], where you will find traditional southern cooking, entertainment, dialect, and lifestyles, much as you would expect in states like [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] or [[Alabama]]. Generally, the further south you go in the state, the more unlike the South it seems, and although Southern culture can be found in every region of the state, it is not always prevalent. Cities such as [[Tampa]] and [[Orlando]] offer the feel of the South, alongside many other cultures. There are a lot of Southerners in these areas, but also many people who are from other areas like the [[Midwest]] or the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. [[Miami]], on the other hand, is unique in that it feels like a cross between an American metropolis and a major Latin American city (like [[Rio de Janeiro|Rio]] or [[São Paulo]]). There are some Seminole Native American reservations and villages throughout southern Florida, namely in the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]], and their indigenous culture can be experienced by visiting a shop and browsing arts and crafts. The southernmost [[Florida Keys]] offer yet another flavor, full of the casual, slow-paced atmosphere of beach life. In short, Florida is a full-fledged region of the [[United States]] in its own right.[[File:Miami Beach FL Arch Dist Collins Ave down south01.jpg|thumb|267x267px|A view south on Collins Avenue in the [[Miami Beach/South Beach|Miami Beach Architectural District]]]] Much of the southern part of Florida is inhabited by people of Hispanic or Latino origin. The region that is substantially to in places majority Hispanic or Latino extends north to Orlando. There are large Cuban and Puerto Rican populations in [[Miami]] and the south side of [[Greater Orlando]], respectively. The white population is higher to the north, and by the northern border with Georgia and Alabama, the Hispanic/Latino population is very low. The Black or African-American population is primarily on the mainland and throughout the state, with historically Black communities and history in the [[Daytona Beach]] metro area, [[Jacksonville]], and Gadsden County in the Panhandle. The ethnic diversity of Florida, while not particularly cosmopolitan outside of certain urban centers, has contributed substantially to the culture, with Spanish spoken in some areas, but in the north, a tendency toward American cuisine and English language exists with few alternatives and much of the population of this region are known by outsiders as "rednecks." There are smaller communities of ethnic minorities including those of Anglo- or Franco-Caribbean or Middle Eastern origin, but these have a smaller impact on the state's culture than the largest ethnic groups. Due to a combination of factors, despite the state's high urbanization relative to many other Southern states, it does not lean as "liberal" as many comparably urban and ethnically diverse states in the North. The state is considered to be on the tipping point between left and right, but despite the prominently right-wing government that scraped through the 2018 elections, the state as a whole is middle of the road for the U.S. Orlando, state capital [[Tallahassee]], [[Fort Lauderdale]] and college town [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] lean left while most of Miami, [[Tampa]]-[[St Petersburg]], southwest Florida, parts of the east coast and rural inland and Panhandle lean conservative when compared with demographically similar communities in other parts of the country. However, almost all regions of the state are politically diverse. ===Landscape=== Florida's '''coastline is world class''', with several gorgeous beaches, bays, and estuaries. The Floridian landscape is extremely flat, however, with lakes and wetlands scattered throughout most of the state, though a mixture of ecosystems distract from the lack of topography. The only exceptions are parts of Highlands, Polk, Lake, and a few other counties in the center of the state where rolling hills are common. The highest point in the state is the {{ft|345}} Britton Hill on the Panhandle, and the {{ft|298}} Iron Mountain in Polk County is the highest point on the Peninsula. Florida's cities tend to be big, sprawling, and well-developed, but not as close to each other as an atlas might imply. Despite being a densely-populated state, there are fortunately still several expanses of wilderness left, although these are often near or between populated urban areas. Some rural parts of the state grow citrus and sugar cane, but farmland tends to be in regions outside the usual tourist areas. The [[Florida Panhandle]] and most of [[North Florida]] consist of farmland and pine trees, but as you travel south, you'll see more wetlands and urbanization, culminating at the Everglades in the far south of the state near Miami. The [[Florida Keys]] are a small chain of tropical islands with their own unique geography. ===Climate=== [[Image:Frances 2004-09-05 1815Z.jpg|thumb|293x293px|right|Hurricane Frances makes landfall on the morning of September 5, 2004 near Stuart. Its impact, however, was felt throughout Central Florida and most of Florida's east coast.]] Florida is known around the world for warm and sunny weather and this has led to the state being a major tourist destination. Florida has the mildest winters on the US mainland, and retirees and temporary residents known as "snowbirds", flock to the state in the cold season. Coastal areas experience gentle breezes during the summer, and the beach is usually the coolest place to be. While those coastal breezes are a welcome relief from the scorching temperatures, they are also the cause of a well-known Florida weather feature: '''thunderstorms'''. While the storms are often brief, they are common, and anyone visiting Florida during the rainy season (mid-June to September) should plan a few indoor activities in the afternoons as a backup. Florida's thunderstorms occur every day during the rainy season and typically form 20-30mi (32-48km) inland and either move toward the center of the state or toward the coast. Due to this, rain can be occurring just a few miles inland from the coast, while those at the beach experience a beautiful day. While the storms cool the air, bringing a welcome though often short relief to stifling temperatures, many produce considerable amounts of '''dangerous lightning''' and some bring hail, high winds of 50 mph (80 km/h) or more, and tornadoes. See the "stay safe" section for thunderstorm safety. Many tourist areas, such as [[Walt Disney World]], have multiple attractions available even during downpours. The spring is the driest time of the year, leading to wildfires nearly every May and early June. The six-month '''[[Hurricane safety|hurricane]] season''' runs from June 1 through November 30 and Floridians have learned to be ready when a storm threatens the area. If you plan on visiting during the months of June through November and especially during the peak of the hurricane season from August through October, stay aware of the news and weather advisories. Information is available from the [http://www.nhc.noaa.gov National Hurricane Center]. Cyclones are unlikely but possible in the month of May. From June through October is the hot and wet season in Florida. High temperatures are often in the 80s to 90s F (30-32 C) and lows in the 70s (24 C). Heat indices typically range between {{F|75}} and {{F|97}}, but on some of the hottest days, the heat indices can climb to {{F|107}} and not go below {{F|80}} at night. The Bermuda High pumps in hot and unstable tropical air from the Bahamas and Gulf of Mexico, which help create the daily thundershowers that are typical in summer months in Florida. Intense but very brief downpours are common in summer in much of Florida. Normally, the wet season starts to fade by early November in northern Florida and reaches southern Florida by late November. From December through April the weather in much is Florida is mild and often dry. The dry season (or winter) is often the driest and most sunny season in Florida, Average high temperatures range from the low 60's in northern Florida to the mid 70's F in far southern Florida. Overnight lows fall to the middle 40's in northern Florida to near 60 F in far southern Florida. A few times each winter, a strong cold front may drop temperatures to near freezing across northern Florida, though in many years there is no freeze at all from central Florida southward. In the driest months, Florida often has long periods of rain-less weather, and by April drought conditions with brush fires and water restrictions are sometimes in place. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitflorida.com/ Visit Florida] website ==Talk== '''English''' is the official language of the state. However, [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]] is the native language of approximately 20% of Florida residents, and the further south you go, the more Spanish speakers there will be. In some parts of [[South Florida]], Spanish is the preferred language in everyday activities. [[Miami]] is most notable, where nearly 80% of residents do not speak English as their native language and 30% do not speak any English at all. [[Tampa]] also has a sizable Spanish-speaking population, and neighborhoods where it is almost exclusively spoken. Like anywhere where there is a large presence of another language, expect Spanish words or expressions used or calqued into everyday English. Gullah, a distinctive English-based creole, is spoken by some African-American communities along the northeastern coast, near the border with Georgia. Native-born non-Hispanic Floridians from the northern part of the state will usually speak with a Southern accent. However, after the migration of millions of Americans from all over the country to the central and southern parts of the state, the Southern dialect is becoming diluted with other accents. Residents of Miami often speak in a distinctive accent with strong influences from Cuban Spanish. ==Get in== [[Image:Orlando International Airport hotel rooms.jpg|227x227px|thumb|A full-service Marriott hotel is directly within Orlando International Airport]] ===By plane=== {{see also|Air travel in the United States}} *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Orlando International Airport]]|wikidata=Q929859}} ({{IATA|MCO}}) - your choice airport for [[Disney World]] and the other attractions in [[Central Florida]]. Located south of downtown [[Orlando]], this airport offers tons of car rentals and free shuttles to Disney and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]] for visitors. Being centrally located it serves as a hub or focus city for Jetblue, Frontier, and Southwest Airlines. There are international connections from South America, Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, Europe and the Middle East. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Miami International Airport]]|wikidata=Q127530}} ({{IATA|MIA}}) - the biggest airport for travel in [[South Florida]], it's the best option for trips to the [[Everglades]] or [[Miami|Miami's]] beaches. The airport is a hub for American Airlines and the most popular entry point with a wide variety of flights from Europe, South America, Central America, the Caribbean, Cuba and Mexico. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Tampa#By plane|Tampa International Airport]]|wikidata=Q571536}} ({{IATA|TPA}}) - serves the Gulf Coast, namely the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area. There are direct flights offered from all over the U.S. and from a number of international destinations in Canada, Cuba, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Fort Lauderdale#By plane|Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport]]|wikidata=Q635361}} ({{IATA|FLL}}) - the fourth-largest airport in Florida, and another valid option to consider with many domestic low-fare carriers such as Allegiant, JetBlue, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. *{{marker|type=go|name=[[Jacksonville#By plane|Jacksonville International Airport]]|wikidata=Q1431579}} ({{IATA|JAX}}) - primary airport for travel in [[North Florida]], serving [[Amelia Island]] and historic [[St. Augustine]]. Other large airports can be found in [[Pensacola]], [[Fort Myers]], [[Tallahassee]], [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]]/[[Clearwater]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Sarasota]], [[Key West]], [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]], [[Melbourne (Florida)|Melbourne]], and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]]. There are many more airports throughout Florida that may get you closer to your destination; watch for these smaller airports while researching your destination. ===By car=== [[File:Brickell skyline 2012.jpg|thumb|The skyline of [[Miami/Brickell|Brickell, Miami]]|240x240px]] Three [[Driving in the United States|Interstate highways]] connect Florida with adjacent states: * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|Interstate 10 (I-10)]]''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and passes through the center of the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]] and across [[North Florida]] until its terminus in Jacksonville. Interstate 10 is most convenient for travelers from [[Louisiana]], [[Texas]], and areas farther west. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' also enters Florida from Georgia and passes through the center of the state until the [[West Central Florida|Tampa Bay]] area, after which it follows the Gulf of Mexico coast (10-20 mi/16-32 km inland) to [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], where it heads due east across the [[Everglades National Park|Everglades]] to Fort Lauderdale. Interstate 75 is most convenient for travelers arriving from [[Atlanta]] and the [[Midwest]]. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]] just north of [[Jacksonville]] and parallels the Atlantic coast, never more than 25 miles inland, until its terminus south of downtown [[Miami]]. Interstate 95 provides the most convenient route for people from the East Coast, [[New England]], eastern parts of [[Canada]]. Jacksonville, [[Daytona Beach]], and the Miami-[[Fort Lauderdale]]-[[West Palm Beach]] area are all serviced by I-95, with access to [[Orlando]] provided via Interstate 4. * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''I-4''' does not cross any state line but is still called an interstate. It crosses the state from Gulf to East coast, passing from Tampa in the west through Orlando and ending at the western boundary of Daytona Beach. It curves to the north on its easternmost segment. The road, particularly on the north side of Orlando, is notoriously dangerous, and the frequent thunderstorms in addition to ongoing road work don't help with this concern. The speeds on this road are high and speed limits are ignored by most, but as a quick route there are few comparable alternatives and it does a good job of connecting the suburbs. Additional major highways entering Florida include: * [[File:US 1.svg|link=US Route 1#Florida|22px]] '''[[US Route 1|US-1]]''' enters Florida north of Jacksonville and snakes along the east coast between Interstate 95 and the Intracoastal Waterway/Atlantic Ocean. Unlike I-95, US 1 continues past Miami and is routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US-27''' enters Florida from western Georgia and provides access to the state capital, [[Tallahassee]], before routing through mostly rural areas of the peninsula. Down the center of the state between Florida's Turnpike and Miami, US 27 is a primary trucking route, and as such this route can be a hassle while dealing with heavy traffic. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US-98''' enters Florida near Pensacola and remains close to the Gulf of Mexico coast until the Panhandle meets the Florida peninsula at the "Big Bend" area. Unlike I-10 to the north, which runs through the interior of the Panhandle away from the coast, US 98 provides a scenic drive and convenient access to the beaches. After leaving the Panhandle, US 98 runs diagonally down the peninsula to West Palm Beach through primarily rural areas. * [[File:US 231.svg|22px]] '''US-231''' enters Florida from Alabama and crosses the Panhandle north-south to its southern terminus at [[Panama City Beach]]. US 231 provides convenient access to the Panhandle from the Midwest via it connection with Interstate 65 in [[Montgomery]]. * [[File:US 301.svg|22px]] '''I-301''' enters Florida just north of Jacksonville and was once the main route from the [[Northeastern United States|Northeast]]. It is a very scenic alternative to I-95 with a lot less traffic. Exiting I-95 at Santee, [[South Carolina]] motorists can follow US 301 through Georgia and into Florida and connect to I-95 again in Jacksonville for Atlantic coast destinations, or continue on to join I-75 at [[Ocala]] for Tampa and the Gulf coast. ===By bus=== Many bus companies operate services to Florida from neighboring states and from the major airports in the states. Service is most frequent along the interstates from large cities in neighboring states. See ''[[Florida#By_bus_2|By bus]]'' under ''Get around'' for a list of bus companies serving the state. ===By train=== [[Rail travel in the United States|Amtrak]] has two services to Florida: *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/auto-train.html Amtrak Auto Train]''' ''(Trains #52 & 53)'' carries passengers and automobiles between [[Lorton]], [[Virginia]] and [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford, Florida]] (north of [[Orlando]]), effectively serving as a car-rail link to Florida from the [[Washington, D.C.]] metro area. This train makes no stops between Lorton & Sanford and is a way to cut back on the extra mileage and wear and tear on the car. *'''[http://www.amtrak.com/routes/silver-service-palmetto-train.html Amtrak Silver Service]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92 and #97 & 98 respectively)'' are two routes that both begin in [[New York City]] and end in [[Miami]]. The trains follow the same route heading to Florida, except in [[North Carolina|North]] and [[South Carolina]]. Within the state, the trains run the same line from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Kissimmee]]. There, they split again, and the Silver Star (Trains #91 & 92) diverges to head west towards [[Lakeland]] and [[Tampa]] while the Silver Meteor (Trains #97 & 98) continues south towards [[Winter Haven]]. Both routes meet again further south and serve the rest of the stations along Florida's east coast to Miami. ===By boat=== Florida is possibly the largest state for [[Cruise ships|cruise ship]] vacations in the United States. [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Tampa]], [[Miami]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] are all popular starting ports, with cruises heading throughout the [[Caribbean]]. There are also many short-term casino cruises that depart from [[Pinellas County]] and around [[South Florida]]. [http://www.ferryexpress.com/ Ferry service]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is also available to and from the [[Bahamas]], with service between [[Fort Lauderdale]] and [[Freeport (Bahamas)|Freeport]], and between Miami and [[Bimini]]. ==Get around== [[File:Overseas Highway bridge.jpg|thumb|The Overseas Highway to Key West.]] ===By car=== Traveling by car is the most common and most convenient way to get around the state for travelers and locals alike. For the traveler car rental agencies are abound in Florida and many are available at every major airport. [[Orlando]], in particular, is known as the "Car Rental Capital of the World". With Florida being the most visited state in the US, car rental rates here are among (if not) the lowest rates in the country due to sheer volume. '' '''Florida's major highways include:''' '' * [[File:I-4.svg|22px]] '''Interstate 4 (I-4)''' crosses diagonally from [[Tampa]], heads east through [[Plant City]] and [[Lakeland]], then continues northeast past [[Kissimmee]], [[Walt Disney World]], and [[Orlando]], before ending at Interstate 95 near [[Daytona Beach]]. Interstate 4 is the most travelled highway in Florida and due to the large volume of traffic, high speeds (70 mph,112 km/h outside of urban areas), construction, and large number of tourists it is also the most dangerous highway in the state, in terms of the number of accidents. * [[File:I-10.svg|link=Interstate 10#Florida|22px]] & [[File:US 90.svg|22px]] '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|I-10]]''' and '''US-90''' enter Florida from [[Alabama]] near [[Pensacola]] and travels across the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]], past [[Tallahassee]] and [[Lake City]], and through rural [[North Florida]] to its terminus at I-95 in Jacksonville. US Hwy 90 straddles I-10 through the northern Florida Panhandle, going through the cities and towns as a local surface street/highway while I-10 goes straight through bypassing the cities and towns. US Hwy 90 continues past the I-95 corridor in downtown Jacksonsville and ends at FL A1A at Jacksonville Beach. * [[File:I-75.svg|22px]] '''I-75''' enters Florida from Georgia and runs south through the center of the peninsula past [[Gainesville (Florida)|Gainesville]] and [[Ocala]] before crossing just east of Tampa, where it then parallels the Gulf coast past [[Bradenton]], [[Sarasota]], [[Fort Myers]], and [[Naples (Florida)|Naples]], after which it travels due east across the [[Everglades]] (a section known as 'Alligator Alley') to the Miami suburbs. * [[File:I-95.svg|22px]] '''I-95''' enters Florida from [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]], north of [[Jacksonville]], and travels down the Atlantic coast past [[St. Augustine]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[Cape Canaveral]], [[Vero Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]], and [[Fort Lauderdale]] before ending at US 1 just south of downtown [[Miami]]. * [[File:Florida's_Turnpike_shield.svg|link=https://www.floridasturnpike.com|22px]] The '''[https://floridasturnpike.com/ Florida Turnpike]''' is a toll road that runs from I-75 south of Ocala, through Orlando, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale before ending south of Miami. It provides the easiest access to Orlando and southeast Florida for persons entering the state via I-75 or I-10. * [[File:I-275.svg|22px]] '''I-275''' is a secondary Interstate that runs from I-75 north of the Tampa area, past downtown Tampa and [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], where it crosses the 5.5-mile-long (8.8km), 193 foot-tall (58.8m) Sunshine Skyway Bridge before it rejoins I-75 south of Bradenton. Interstate 75 ''does not'' provide access to these areas, it instead passes through rural and suburban areas 10 miles east of Tampa. * [[File:US 1.svg|22px]] '''[[US Route 1#Florida|US-1]]''' is a historic and scenic highway that travels down the Atlantic coast between I-95 and the ocean before being routed over a series of bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) through the [[Florida Keys]] to its terminus at [[Key West]]. * [[File:Florida A1A.svg|22px]] '''FL-A1A''' runs parallel to US Hwy 1 as the coastal highway along the east coast. It serves the beach communities as a local street (such as Collins Ave in Miami Beach or Ocean Dr in Ft Lauderdale) in the offshore islands/keys along the entire east coast. It is fragmented and does not run continuously from South Beach to Fernadina Beach. It runs concurrent on US Hwy 1 in places where it is not a separate road. * [[File:US 27.svg|22px]] '''US 27''' is a well-traveled alternative to Florida's Turnpike and runs from Miami, along Lake Okeechobee and through the mostly-rural [[Florida Heartland|Heartland]] of Florida before continuing through Ocala, Gainesville, and Tallahassee. * [[File:US 41.svg|22px]] '''US 41''' runs west from Miami on a scenic 2-lane journey through the Everglades, and then travels along the Gulf Coast, around the east side of Tampa Bay, and north into Georgia. * [[File:US 98.svg|22px]] '''US 98''' enters Florida from [[Alabama]] at Pensacola and travels a very scenic route along the Gulf Coast of the Panhandle, after which it continues diagonally across the peninsula to its terminus in West Palm Beach. ===By plane=== Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state especially between South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) and the Panhandle (Pensacola and Tallahassee) while others will be relatively short (Ft Lauderdale to Orlando). '''[http://www.atlanticairlines.com/ Atlantic Airlines]''', '''[https://www.allegiantair.com Allegiant]''' (Key west to St Petersburg & Sanford); '''[https://www.flybreeze.com Breeze]''', '''[http://www.aa.com American Airlines/American Eagle]''', '''[https://www.flyfrontier.com Frontier]''', '''[https://www.JetBlue.com JetBlue]''', and '''[https://www.southwest.com/ Southwest]''' offer intrastate flights between cities in Florida. ===By bus=== The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest. There is fairly frequent service from Orlando (as a 'de-facto' hub) to Naples (via Tampa Bay, Ft Myers); South Florida (W Palm Peach, Ft Lauderdale, Miami); Jacksonville (via Daytona Beach, Ft Pierce); and the Panhandle (via Gainesville, Ocala, Tallahassee) with multiple companies. Others offer connections to the Keys through Miami-Dade and north towards Jacksonville along I-95 without going through Orlando. Check schedules. Many of the smaller companies, county bus services, and those connecting rural towns are not listed, check the article of your destination and the schedules of the company for all the transportation options. Information on transit (local public transportation) can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]: * {{go | name=Greyhound Lines / Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-231-2222 | hours= | price= | content=Connects South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) to Tampa, Naples and Jacksonville through Orlando with onward connections to Atlanta, Savannah, Houston and other cities north from Orlando. They also operate a less frequent service from Miami to Tampa via Belle Glade, Clewiston and Ft Myers. They also go south to Key West via the Florida Keys from Miami and north towards Jacksonville from Miami along I-95. Check schedules. }} * {{go | name=Jet Set Express | alt= | url=https://www.miamiorlando.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407 649-4994 | tollfree= | hours=Venue at stop open 24/7 | price= | lastedit=2019-07-29 | content=Thrice Daily departures to Ft Pierce, Kissimmee, Orlando from the Miami. Check schedules for a listing of other stops which are serviced once or twice daily. }} * {{go | name=Keys Shuttle | alt= | url=http://www.keysshuttle.com/ | email= | address=| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-289-9997 | tollfree=+1-888-765-9997 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-12 | content=The company provides door-to-door service to the Keys from the Miami and Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airports (and vice versa). }} * {{go | name=La Cubana Express | alt= | url=https://lacubanaxpress.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 305-541-1700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-27 | content=Connects Miami to New York City through Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Washington, DC; Elkton, Maryland; Philadelphia and New Jersey on a single route. In Florida they serve Miami, Ft Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Deltona and Jacksonville. }} * {{go | name=Our Bus | alt=Operated by different bus companies on contract to Our Bus | url=https://ourbus.com/ | email= | address=Terminal B of the Port of Miami Cruise Terminal | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 844 800-6828 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Fares range from $10 to $22 or more | content=Operates service between the Miami Cruise Terminals, Ft Lauderdale Airport, Tampa, Sarasota and Ft Myers. }} * {{go | name=Redcoach | alt= | url=https://www.redcoachusa.com/florida/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407-851-2843 | tollfree=+1-877-733-0724 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-22 | content=Service from Tallahassee to Miami via Ocala, Gainesville and Ft Lauderdale. One branch go through Orlando through Ft Pierce, W Palm Beach and Pompano Beach. Another go through Tampa, Ft Myers and Naples. }} There are a number of local and regional public transportation agencies that offer intercity bus services throughout the state. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/florida/ here]. ===By train=== *[[File:Brightline Train At Ft Lauderdale Station.jpg|thumb|251x251px|A Brightline train at the station in Fort Lauderdale.]]'''[https://www.amtrak.com/silver-service-palmetto-train Amtrak Silver Star]''' ''(Trains #91 & 92)'' and '''Silver Meteor''' ''(Trains #97 & 98)'' - This is a relatively expensive option but will suffice if other means are not possible. Both routes span from [[Jacksonville]] to [[Miami]]. While the two routes are slightly different, they both stop at the following stations: [[Jacksonville]], [[Palatka]], [[DeLand]], [[Winter Park (Florida)|Winter Park]], [[Orlando]], [[Kissimmee]], [[Winter Haven]], [[Sebring]], [[Okeechobee]], [[West Palm Beach]], [[Delray Beach]], [[Deerfield Beach]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], [[Hollywood (Florida)|Hollywood]], and [[Miami]]. The slight difference between the two routes is that the Silver Star detours to [[Lakeland]] (to/from the north only) and [[Tampa]] (to/from the south only) while the Silver Meteor proceeds directly to Winter Haven from Kissimmee. * {{listing | name=Sun Rail | alt= | url=http://www.sunrail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 855 724-5411 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 5AM-11:30PM | price=$2-5 one way | wikipedia=SunRail | wikidata=Q3503715 | lastedit=2019-01-06 | content=Sun Rail is a north-south train on weekdays through [[Sanford (Florida)|Sanford]], Orlando, and Kissimmee, from Poinciana at its southern end, and DeBary at its northern end. Bus connection is provided from Orlando International Airport to the Sand Lake Road station by Linx routes 11, 42 and 111; and from Orlando-Sanford International Airport to the Sanford station by Linx route 46E. }} * {{listing | name=Tri-Rail | alt= | url=http://www.tri-rail.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 954 783-6030 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 4AM-11:35PM (different weekends) | price=$2.50-11.55 for one-day pass |wikipedia=|wikidata=|image=| lastedit=2019-02-24 | content=The regional rail for South Florida with a single 18-station route from its north end at Mangonia Park, through Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach to its south end Miami Airport. It runs the same route as the Amtrak Silver Service from Miami to West Palm Beach with the same shared stops at West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood. This train is connected to Miami International Airport by the MIA Mover shuttle train, to the Fort Lauderdale Airport by a shuttle bus, and to the West Palm Beach Airport by Palm Transit bus route 42 or 44 and the Tri-Rail Shuttle Bus. }} * {{listing | name=Brightline | alt= | url=http://gobrightline.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Several departures daily | price=$20-350 roundtrip | lastedit=2024-03-30 | content=A private railroad running passenger trains since early 2018, initially between Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, with service to Miami added in the summer of 2018. An extension to Orlando International Airport from West Palm Beach was opened in 2023. Plans are underway to continue the route from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World, and eventually to Tampa. Brightline trains operate on separate tracks and stations than Amtrak and local commuter trains (which are shared with each other). }} ===By ferry=== A high speed ferry service, the '''[http://www.seakeywestexpress.com Key West Express],''' operates from the cities of [[Fort Myers]] and [[Marco Island]] with daily service to the Historic Seaport district of [[Key West]]. The ferry ride takes approximately 3½ hours and the Fort Myers vessels have a capacity exceeding 300 passengers. Amenities include outdoor sundecks, flat-screen TVs, galley service and a full bar. ==See== [[Image:Gatorland.JPG|thumb|right|Gatorland in Orlando.|206x206px]]The {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/ Kennedy Space Center]|wikidata=Q6389687|lat=|long=}} in [[Cape Canaveral]] was America's spaceport for the manned missions to the Moon and the Space Shuttle. The Visitor Complex contains spacecraft displays, two IMAX movies, the Astronaut's Hall of Fame, exhibits chronicling the history and future of space exploration, and a Space Shuttle Launch Experience.[[Image:FL-PonceInletLighthouse.jpg|thumb|The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse in [[Ponce Inlet]].|221x221px]]Florida has a long and complex history and is worth visiting for those interested in [[historical travel]]. {{marker|type=see|name=[[St. Augustine]]|wikidata=Q487988}}, founded by the Spanish in 1565, is the United States' oldest permanent European settlement. It contains a large colonial fort, multiple attractions and site detailing its history, countless restaurants and bars, and plenty of shops in its small, walkable downtown. '''[[Florida Lighthouses|Florida's Lighthouses]]''' are numerous, historic, and beautiful; take some time to visit these iconic images of the coast. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.flholocaustmuseum.org/ The Florida Holocaust Museum]|wikidata=Q884852|lat=|long=}} in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Saint Petersburg]], this is one of the largest Holocaust museums in the U.S. and exhibits a box car used by Nazis to transport prisoners to extermination camps like [[Auschwitz]]. {{Marker|type=see|name=[http://www.salvadordalimuseum.org/ Salvador Dalí Museum]|wikidata=Q674427|lat=|long=}}, also in downtown [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|St. Petersburg]], is the largest collection of Dalí artwork outside of Europe. [[Sports]] are popular in the state of Florida, and particularly well-known is {{marker|type=see|name=Daytona International Speedway|wikidata=Q1179250}} near FL-92 and I-95 in [[Daytona Beach]]. The famous speedway venue is home of the number one event in stock car racing, NASCAR's Daytona 500 (February), along with other events throughout the year. '''[[Baseball in the United States#Spring Training|Spring Training baseball]]''' occurs throughout the state in late February and March, and offers the ability to watch your favorite players for discount prices (front row tickets can be purchased as low as $15-20) and in smaller, more intimate venues. {{marker|type=see|name=Sunshine Skyway Bridge|wikidata=Q2302271}} is the longest cable-stayed bridge in the world and an engineering masterpiece crossing the mouth of Tampa Bay. Two long fishing piers beside the bridge, the approaches of the previous bridge, are renowned among local fishermen and provide a less expensive alternative for saltwater fishing. {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.ybor.org/ Ybor City]|wikidata=Q3572050|lat=|long=}} (pronounced ee-bor) is one of the largest party districts in the country, with countless bars, restaurants, clubs, and cigar stores, located near downtown [[Tampa]], easily accessible by car or with the free and historic streetcar service. Ybor City has a very historic and authentic feel, with a combination of Latin and Italian influence. Not just a nightlife district, however, with many cultural sights and restaurants open during the day. ===Wildlife=== {{see also|Marine life|Natural springs in Florida}} [[File:Alligator on the St Johns River.jpg|thumb|One of Florida's famous [[Dangerous animals#Alligators and crocodiles|alligators]]]] Alligators, crocodiles, manatees, bears, armadillos, dolphins, spoonbills...Florida's diverse array of habitats are home to a variety of wild animals. Alligators and their relatives can be seen in captivity at the Alligator Farm in [[Saint Augustine]], and the {{marker|type=see|name=Saint John's River|wikidata=Q1677915}}, which was expanded to better accommodate riverboats, is also an excellent place to see wildlife. An abundance of marinas and boat tours that exist in the cities north of Orlando have access to this river. It's lined with trees of various species, along with a variety of bird life. To see wild alligators, try [[Everglades National Park]] or [[Myakka River State Park]], and you can see manatees at [[Blue Spring State Park]] or [[Hernando County#Do|Weeki Wachee Springs]]. {{marker|type=see|name=Gatorland|wikidata=Q689585}} in [[Orlando]] is full of Florida's most unique animal and is one of the oldest tourist attractions in the state. Unfortunately, with all the exotic wildlife come a host of insects, especially during the May-October period. These are often encountered outdoors, especially in forested areas, during the summer and are attracted by that season's hot, humid weather, so if you visit between May and early fall, expect to encounter mosquitoes or even "lovebugs". Lovebugs, which are typically seen for just a few weeks during spring and fall, are completely harmless except for the mess they make on moving cars, and are so named because they are seen in pairs. Even more developed areas, if near forests, can attract mosquitoes. Along with the fauna is flora in its abundance (and variety) due to the warm and wet climate. === Itineraries === * '''[[U.S. Highway 1#Florida|US-1]]''' and '''[[Interstate 10#Florida|Interstate 10]]''' go through the state. * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' crosses a portion of Lake Ashby in Volusia County, Florida, before entering the rainforest. * '''[[East Central Regional Rail Trail]]''' is a recreational trail (and former rail trail) in Volusia County and the Space Coast that constitutes a part of Florida's Coast-to-Coast Trail. A paved trail, the route is popular with cyclists, as it crosses a variety of ecosystems and scenic areas including cypress groves, forests, and pine flatwoods. == Do == [[File:Spaceship Earth at night.jpg|thumb|The world-famous Spaceship Earth at Walt Disney World's [[Walt Disney World/Epcot|Epcot]] theme park.]] {{quote|If you can't find something to do in Florida, you're just boring|author=Guy Fieri|source=[https://web.archive.org/web/20170214011958/http://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do/food/dining/interview-guy-fieri-talks-new-projects-criticism-and-the-triple-d-effect/2312870 as quoted in the ''Tampa Bay Times'']}} * '''Go to the beach!''' You have numerous options here: [[Panama City Beach]], [[Daytona Beach]], [[New Smyrna Beach]], [[St. Pete Beach]], [[West Palm Beach]] and [[Siesta Key]] are some of the best. * Visit Florida's world class '''theme parks and water parks'''. **'''[[Walt Disney World]]''' - The most visited resort in the world, home to four theme parks, two water parks, and shopping, dining, and hotels galore. **[[Universal Orlando|'''Universal Orlando''']] - Disney World's biggest competitor, these three theme parks are home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. **'''SeaWorld''' in [[Orlando]] and '''Legoland''' in nearby [[Winter Haven]]. **'''Busch Gardens''' in [[Tampa]]. *Visit '''[[Everglades National Park]]''', a place like no other on Earth, and take an airboat ride through the swamps. A drive across the Everglades on US 41 is a great way to get a sense of the park's size and scenery. Check out [[Everglades City]] for great attractions. *Explore some of the more than 150 '''[http://www.floridastateparks.org/ Florida State Parks]'''. The only three-time winner of the National Recreation and Park Association's Gold Medal for state park systems. Get a Florida State Parks Annual Pass for free admission to most of the state parks, or discounted admission at [[Saint Petersburg (Florida)|Skyway Fishing Pier State Park]], [[Homosassa Springs|Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park]] and [[Hernando County|Weeki Wachee Springs State Park]]. *Visit the '''[http://www.seminoletribe.com/ Seminole]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} or [http://miccosukeetribe.com/ Miccosukee]{{Dead link|date=March 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native American]] reservations''' throughout the state. Here you can find out about their history and culture, try their food, and gamble in the casinos on their land, which include several Hard Rock Casinos. *'''Go [[scuba diving]] or snorkeling''' through the many coral reefs, sunken vessels, and diverse array of sea life off of Florida's coasts. The most colorful fish can be seen in the tropical waters of [[Miami]] and further south. *'''Go hiking or [[wilderness backpacking|backpacking]]''' in the many state and national parks and forests that have nature trails suitable for hiking and camping. A particularly good option is the Florida National Scenic Trail, a network of 1400 miles (2253 km) of hiking trails throughout the state. The most popular section of the trail is the 110-mile (177-km) loop encircling Lake Okeechobee. *'''Go fishing''', with some of the best fishing action in the world (both salt and freshwater). Several large and tough fighting species such as Sailfish, Tarpon, and Largemouth Bass can be found lurking in water throughout the state. *'''Take a [[Cruise ships|Cruise]]''' from the Port of [[Miami]], [[Tampa]], [[Fort Lauderdale]], or [[Cape Canaveral]] on longer cruises run by the likes of Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line or [[Disney Cruise Line]]. There are also short nightly casino cruises in various places. *'''View a rocket launch''', which are visible from virtually anywhere in the Peninsula when skies are clear. But the best viewing is up-close from [[Cape Canaveral|Cape Canaveral's]] Kennedy Space Center, [[Cocoa Beach]], [[Canaveral National Seashore]], or [[Titusville (Florida)|Titusville]]. *Check out the '''Florida State Fair''', held every February near Tampa. It hosts an exposition of counties, where each Florida county has a display and a representative to answer questions. In addition, the fair has animal displays and shows, an exhibition dedicated to citrus, various dance & cheerleading competitions, and a large selection of rides and games. ==Buy== Florida is increasingly becoming a '''major destination for shopping'''. The [[Orlando]] and [[Miami]] areas are home to a plethora of shopping malls, including many outlet malls home to shops selling brand-name products for discounted prices. There are also a large number of stores selling souvenirs, although most are not locally produced. The [[Kissimmee]] area near Orlando, especially, has a much larger number of retail stores than is typical of U.S. cities. While traditionally these shops catered largely to American families on vacation, most now serve foreign shoppers who flock to these malls to buy products significantly cheaper than at home. It's not uncommon at some shopping malls in Orlando to encounter tourists from around the globe, especially on weekdays when most Americans are working. In the last few years, [[Brazil]] has become the largest source of international visitors to the state, with many coming on shopping group tours and sometimes wearing matching shirts. Due to this, major shopping centers in the Orlando and Miami areas now offer services in [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]]. Most goods for sale in the state are subject to sales tax. In most of the state the rate is 7%, but it varies from 6-7.5% (6% state sales tax and up to 1.5% local sales tax). This rate is almost never listed on the advertised or displayed prices. ==Eat== [[File:Florida orange grove.JPG|thumb|A typical Florida orange grove near [[Sebring]].]] Florida's cuisine is a mix of many influences and its styles vary across the state from North to South. [[North Florida]] has a more Southern style; [[South Florida]] a more Caribbean one. There specifically, early Spanish and African cuisines have been given a new spin with the impact of Cuban and other Caribbean cultures, as well as from "snowbirds" escaping the Northern U.S. winters. Being on a peninsula, Florida's chefs have always had access to fresh seafood, and the long growing season provides fresh native vegetables almost year round. *'''Citrus''' is a main export, and a tourist is apt to see many roadside stands offering free samples of orange juice and fruits to be shipped or carried home. Florida also grows grapefruit, avocado, mango, papaya, passion fruit, kumquat, coconut and other tropical fruits. These often provide the base for sauces and marinades and are also used in marmalades, soups, and desserts. Official state welcome centers located on I-10, I-75, and I-95 as you enter Florida offer free samples of orange juice to all visitors, a tradition that goes back decades. *'''Strawberries''' are another popular fruit in Florida. [[Plant City]], off I-4 east of [[Tampa]], is the center of the Florida strawberry industry, where during the peak season (Feb-Mar) many roadside vendors offer flats (16 pints/12 lb/5.4 kg) and half-flats of strawberries for a small fraction of grocery store prices. Since most stands are owned by the individual farmers, the fruit sold was often harvested that morning or the day before. Fresh Florida strawberries are a treat no tourist should miss, at least if you visit in-season. *'''Grouper''' is a very popular seafood caught in Florida's coastal waters. Fresh grouper is offered in many coastal cities, where local restaurants buy it straight from fishermen, and it is often served fried or grilled on a sandwich. State inspectors have cracked down to ensure that all restaurants offering "grouper" are in fact serving grouper, and not another less expensive white fish. Snapper, snook, tarpon, marlin, and shark are other Florida fish that you can find at coastal restaurants, although they are not nearly as ubiquitous as grouper. *'''Southern food''' is available throughout most of [[North Florida|North]] and [[Central Florida]]. Barbeque is popular throughout the state, with many small "barbeque shacks" to choose from. Any platter costing over $10 ($15 for ribs) should be avoided as the less expensive restaurants are almost always best. Sweet tea is also common throughout the state, although unlike most areas in the [[South (United States of America)|South]], you have a choice between sweet and unsweet tea. Boiled peanuts, which taste nothing like a regular peanut, can be found at roadside vendors and are certainly worth trying. Dishes such as fried chicken, grits, okra, biscuits & gravy, and collard greens can also be found in restaurants and buffets throughout the state. *'''Cuban food''' is common in the [[Miami]] and [[Tampa]] areas, with the most common dishes being the Cuban sandwich, flan, and black beans & rice. *'''Local specialties''', not readily available in many other locales, include '''alligator'''. It is healthy and most say it tastes like chicken, and it is often prepared like chicken nuggets. '''Key lime pie''', found elsewhere now, is a [[Florida Keys]] invention, made from the local key limes. Florida bans indoor smoking in restaurants, but it is allowed outdoors unless the establishment prohibits it.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Drink== [[File:MIAMI-ArtDeco-rj002.jpg|thumb|The art deco hotels and clubs of Miami's [[Miami Beach/South Beach|South Beach]].]] '''Alcoholic beverages''' abound throughout the state. However, five rural counties in the northern third of the state are "dry counties", and no alcohol is sold in them. Stand-alone liquor stores are often built into strip malls, supermarkets, and pharmacies, and most grocery stores, gas stations, and convenience stores sell beer and wine. '''Bars and clubs''' are popular throughout the state, with [[Miami Beach]] being well-known for a variety of themed and upscale bars with innovative mixed drinks. Unique bars and clubs can also be found in downtown [[Orlando]] and the nearby tourist areas closer to the theme parks and resorts of [[Walt Disney World|Disney]] and [[Universal Orlando|Universal]]. No visit to Florida is complete without a cup of their famous '''orange juice'''. Like every other U.S. state, the purchase and possession age for alcohol is 21 and it's fairly well enforced. Underage drinking "stings" are frequent in most tourist areas. Florida allows smoking in bars, including those that serve food, but the bar must get less than 10% of their revenue from food.<!-- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States#Florida --> ==Sleep== == Respect == If you're using a boat or other vehicle, like a jetski, in the water, it may be necessary to significantly reduce speed in areas inhabited by manatees and/or dolphins. Fast-moving vehicles can cause harm to a manatee's respiratory system. Misuse of recreation areas has caused record manatee deaths in 2021. ==Connect== [[File:Siesta Key Beach TV-001-0002.jpg|thumb|The gentle white sands of Siesta Key]] ===Internet=== Essentially all '''hotels''' offer Wi-Fi internet access for guests, and almost always for free; some even have Ethernet ports for higher-speed wired connections. Many '''businesses''' also have free Wi-Fi. This even includes some clothing/department, grocery, and convenience stores in addition to the more typical restaurants and shopping malls. All the main airports have free Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi internet access is also available at '''public libraries'''. It's almost always free for everyone with their own device (laptop, smartphone, tablet). Computers set up for internet access by patrons require a username and password to access; nearly all libraries will issue a "guest pass" for non-cardholders, though there is occasionally a nominal fee. Use of library computers is subject to time limits which vary widely. The large majority of "internet cafes" in the state are actually nominally illegal casinos, set up for online gambling in an attempt to circumvent gambling laws. Such internet cafes do not have typical computers for general use. Instead, they are usually enclosed in a slot machine-style cover with only a few buttons to press, and set up to only view gambling websites. Patrons pay for short periods of time, sometimes using odd methods like buying prepaid phone cards. After a high-profile crackdown on an operator of dozens of such internet cafes, the state banned the opening of all new internet cafes in 2013. ==Stay safe== Dialing '''911''' at any telephone will reach the emergency services (police, fire, ambulance, etc.). Any phone connected to a U.S. network, regardless of whether or not it has a paid account, must be able to dial 911 if it is connected to the network, and such calls are always free. ===Crime=== Florida has varying crime intensity from city to city. In certain areas of the large cities it may not be safe to walk alone or even in small groups at night, although these are the exceptions and most of Florida is safe for visitors. Tourist areas rarely have violent crimes, but theft is an occasional occurrence. If the area doesn't feel safe, then it probably isn't. '''Clip joint''' operators who trick visitors into paying large amounts of money for low-quality services may use local police to shake down voyagers under a Florida law that requires bar and restaurant patrons pay a disputed bill first and take it up later with their credit card company. Avoid getting involved in '''road rage''' incidents while driving in Florida as firearms frequently get involved. If someone cuts you off on the highway (a frequent occurence) just let it go.<!-- http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/04/07/17-charged-south-beach-alcohol-scam.html --> ===Weather=== {{infobox|Extreme Temperatures|''Never leave children or pets in a parked car for any length of time!'' Due to the high temperatures most of the year, the interior of a parked car can easily heat to a '''lethal''' temperature very quickly. During the summer, the interior of a parked car can reach {{convert|130|to|170|F}} in just 15 minutes, regardless of the color of the exterior or interior, nor whether the windows are open a small amount. You not only risk their lives, but '''it is illegal''' and the consequences could be thousands in fines and even imprisonment. Vehicles left containing animals or children ''will'' be broken into by police or bystanders.}} Florida has a high occurrence of '''hurricanes''', though they don't hit the state every year. You might want to check the [[Cyclones|hurricane safety]] page if you are visiting Florida during the Hurricane Season, which runs June 1 to November 30. Few places in the world experience more frequent '''lightning strikes''' than Florida. The summer thunderstorms in Florida produce frequent lightning, which kills people each year and injures many more. Stay indoors during a thunderstorm and ''never'' seek shelter under a tree. Most casualties occur on golf courses, but lightning strikes everywhere. If you must go outdoors during a storm, try to stay away from any tall object, especially trees or anything made of metal. Occasionally, thunderstorms will bring '''hail, high winds, and [[Tornado safety|tornadoes]]'''. While the historical number of tornadoes in Florida is somewhat high, the overwhelming majority have occurred during hurricanes (Hurricane Jeanne alone spawned over 200 tornadoes in Florida). While some do occur during winter cold fronts and summer thunderstorms, 99% of them are weak (F-0/F-1). Thus, while statistics may suggest otherwise, tornadoes are not a big hazard in Florida. Watch where and when you swim. While the beaches are great they sometimes harbor '''rip currents, bacteria, and jellyfish'''. Always check with the lifeguard stand or ranger station before heading in if no one is in the water or if the waves are rough. '''Red tide''' is the name for harmful algal blooms that can occur on Florida's Gulf coast. They cause fish kills and water discoloration, and release toxins into the air that cause respiratory irritation. People with severe or chronic respiratory conditions, such as emphysema or asthma, should avoid areas where red tide is occurring. Swimming in water afflicted by red tide can cause skin and eye irritation and is not recommended. Heavy rain can make the roads dangerous. Although many highway drainage systems in Florida are well-designed by necessity, it can be almost impossible to see through your windshield during the worst rainstorms. Light and torrential rain can be a hundred feet apart, so when you hit heavy rain, it's common for vehicular traffic to slow to speeds as low as 20 mph if necessary, even on major interstates. However, there are a few drivers who ignore the protocol and drive fast anyway. Even though it's common, it's illegal to drive with hazard lights on in the rain. Use them only if you are completely stopped. ===Wildlife=== {{main|Dangerous animals}} '''Alligators''' are a threat throughout Florida (even in inland areas like [[Orlando]] and the [[Walt Disney World]]<!-- http://www.cnn.com/2016/06/15/us/alligator-attacks-child-disney-florida/index.html -->), and it should be assumed that they are present in ''all'' stagnant or slow moving freshwater. ''Never'' swim in any lakes or rivers unless signs tell you swimming is safe, and beware when approaching the water anywhere. Do not allow children or pets to approach the water's edge. '''Bears''' and '''Florida panthers''', common before the arrival of Europeans in Florida, are now both endangered in the state. If you do see either, back off slowly or keep your distance, and make yourself appear larger by waving your arms above your head. When hiking, make lots of noise to avoid startling an animal, and always keep small children close to you. Both species are endangered and protected under Florida law, and harassing or injuring one (even in a vehicle accident) will result in prosecution. [[Volusia County]] is known for a high number of '''shark attacks''', but they can occur anywhere in the state, so be careful when surfing. Even so, the number of attacks are less than 50, with a fatal attack every 2-3 years, amongst ''millions'' of visitors and residents who swim in the ocean. Swimming near dusk and dawn is the most hazardous. '''Lionfish''' are a poisonous and invasive fish that are now present on reefs throughout Florida. They can be identified by their red-and white striped bodies and poisonous spines. Stings are extremely painful and often require hospitalization. Due to their status as an invasive species, any sighting of lionfish should be reported to wildlife management authorities immediately. '''Jellyfish''' are also sometimes common at the beaches, and '''venomous snakes''' can be found year round across the state, so it is good to be wary of both. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== A large number of countries have consulates in and around [[Miami#Consulates|Miami]], with a much smaller number in [[Jacksonville#Consulates|Jacksonville]], [[Orlando#Consulates|Orlando]] and [[Tampa#Consulates|Tampa]]. Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for the cities where they are located. Always call ahead to determine if the consulate offers the services you require, such as passports, visas, and other official documents, as these services are increasingly being centralized at other locations. Some websites are available only in [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]. ==See also== The following are additional Wikivoyage articles regarding the history and itineraries for travel within Florida. The articles also list places of historical or natural significance along the way: * '''[[British Florida]]''' Although Florida was under Spanish control for most of its history prior to U.S. control, there was a brief period of 20 years during which it was a British colony. During British rule in the region, it was divided into two colonies: East Florida governed from St. Augustine, and West Florida governed from Pensacola. * '''[[Spanish Florida]]''' Prior to its annexation by the United States, Florida was a colony of Spain. From the founding of St. Augustine in 1565 to the collapse of their empire in the 1820s, the Spanish built forts, missions, and attempted to settle the subtropical, humid peninsula despite competition from other European powers. * '''[[Seminole Wars]]''', not as well known as the other wars in which the United States participated in the 19th century, were a significant development of the Indian Removal Wars. Conflicts between British, American, Spanish, and Seminole participants date back to the 18th century, but the most coordinated fighting took place between the Napoleonic Wars and the American Civil War. * '''[[Summer in Florida]]''' is a popular time to visit, for example for its theme parks, because it's when most North Americans have vacations. However, the climate during this period can make travel more complicated, unless your travels are carefully managed * '''[[East Central Regional Rail Trail]]''' is a recreational trail (and former rail trail) in Volusia County and the Space Coast that constitutes a part of Florida's Coast-to-Coast Trail. A paved trail, the route is popular with cyclists, as it crosses a variety of ecosystems and scenic areas including cypress groves, forests, and pine flatwoods. * '''[[Lake Ashby Boardwalk]]''' crosses a portion of Lake Ashby in Volusia County, Florida, before entering the rainforest ==Go next== * '''[[Alabama]]''' - North of the Panhandle is Alabama, with the historic port of [[Mobile]] and popular resort town [[Gulf Shores]] a short drive away from this region of Florida. * '''[[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]''' - Heading out of Florida to the north is Georgia, with the historic city of [[Savannah]] and the resort beaches of [[Jekyll Island]] close by. * '''[[Caribbean]]''' - The islands of the Caribbean are accessible by boat and plane from across Florida and offer a variety of both relaxing and adventure travel amidst a tropical paradise. For those interested in visiting the '''[[Bahamas]]''' (as the nearest country), many owners of small boats will make the day-long trip to the island chain, and several small airlines offer flights for under $70 each way. Other popular destinations in the Caribbean that are further from Florida by boat are '''[[Dominican Republic]], [[Puerto Rico]]''', and the '''[[Virgin Islands]]'''. * '''[[Colombia]]''' and '''[[Venezuela]]''' are the nearest countries in '''[[South America]]''' that are 3-4 hours away by plane, on a direct flight from [[South Florida]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]]. * '''[[Cancun]]''' and '''[[Merida (Mexico)|Merida]]''' on the [[Yucatán_and_the_South|Yucatán Peninsula]] are the nearest cities in Mexico from [[Miami International Airport|Miami]] and [[Orlando International Airport|Orlando]] that are a 2 hr 15 min away by plane. To go further into Mexico, [[Benito Juárez International Airport| Mexico City]] is 3 hr 40 min away from Miami or Orlando. * '''[[Central America]]''' is 2-3 hours on a plane from Miami, Ft Lauderdale and Orlando. <br />{{usableregion}} {{geo|28.1|-82.0|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|United_States}} {{related|Tornado_safety}} aol22coitrel054np8uounnw7awa9zv 0 13516 5288892 5283747 2026-06-06T16:10:01Z Mrkstvns 144844 /* Colonia Americana */ - add Casa Bariachi 5288892 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Guadalajara banner.jpg|dotm=yes|unesco_whs=yes|unesco_ich=yes}} [[File:Guadalajara´s Cathedral, Jalisco, Mexico.jpg|thumb|275px|Guadalajara Cathedral viewed from north side of Plaza de Guadalajara]] '''Guadalajara''' is the capital of the central state of [[Jalisco]] in [[Mexico]], and the second-largest city in the country, with about a million and a half citizens (known as "Tapatíos"). It is considered a colonial city, though much of its architecture dates from the independence period. Although it has a far more relaxed feel than [[Mexico City]], the city center can still seem a bit stuffy and dusty, especially during rush hour when the sun is out. All in all, however, it is a lovely city and contains many nice areas for walking, not just in the center. === Welcome World Cup fans === Guadalajara is one of the 16 North American cities that will host soccer matches for the [[2026 FIFA World Cup]]. Games scheduled for Guadalajara will be played in '''Estadio Akron''' in the northern suburb of '''Zapopan'''. Here are a few tips for football fansː * Akron Stadium is 31 km from Guadalajara International Airport, an airport taxi will take 40-60 minutes to get to Zapopan, depending on traffic * the '''closest hotels''' are in Zapopan, and although Google Maps shows some within 0.5 km of the stadium, they are actually a 4 km walk (or drive) because there is no direct road between the hotels and the stadium. These will still be the most conveniently located hotels for fans with game tickets. Close hotels include '''SR Hotel''', '''One Guadalajara Periférico Poniente''', and '''Holiday Inn Express Guadalajara Vallarte Poniente'''. * the '''best way to get to the stadium''' will probably be '''Uber''' because there are several busy streets and a complex major highway interchange near the stadium that make the area unfriendly to pedestrians. Plan to get dropped off or picked up away from the stadium as there will be no designated drop off and pickup zone. Public transit is an excellent optionː use the MiMacro bus-rapid-transit (BRT), Line 7 to '''Estadio Chivas'''. The station is about a 1.5 km walk to the stadium. If you plan to drive, the city has set up 10 designated satellite parking areas with shuttle buses to the stadium. These parking lots require pre-registration, cost M$500 (US$25). Registration and info is [https://boletomovil.com/guadalajara-fwc-2026 on the web page]. * the '''best neighborhood''' for upscale '''restaurants''' and fun '''nightclubs''' is Americano. There are also several good hotels in this highly walkable neighborhood * the city has an extensive '''public transit''' system that is cheap and reliable. It consists of a subway/light rail system called ''MiTren'', a bus-rapid transit system (BRT) called ''MiMacro'' and buses called ''MiBus'' serving local neighborhoods. You can get to most parts of the city with these services, though '''Uber''' is always a convenient and safe option for getting around ==Understand== {{climate chart |Guadalajara |10.6 |24.1 |16.3 |11.9 |26.2 |11.0 |13.5 |28.5 |8.3 |15.6 |30.5 |3.8 |17.2 |31.9 |26.3 |17.2 |30.1 |183.8 |16.2 |27.4 |271.3 |16.3 |27.2 |220.5 |16.4 |26.7 |193.7 |15.3 |26.7 |58.8 |12.9 |25.6 |12.3 |11.1 |24.3 |7.4 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Guadalajara]] |description= }} Guadalajara is Mexico's second largest city, and one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the country. This growth has been driven in part by the booming electronics industry in the industrial outskirts of the city. Other important and growing industries are pharmaceuticals, food processing, and fashion. ===Orientation=== [[Image:MorelosStreetGDLMX.JPG|thumb|Calle de Morelos]] Guadalajara proper is divided into four districts corresponding approximately to the northwest, northeast, southwest, and southeast quarters of the city. At the center of everything is the main area of interest to tourists, the '''Centro Histórico''', or the historic downtown. Most of your time will probably be spent here. It is filled with colonial-era buildings and, famously, also boasts several important [[Mexican muralism|mural paintings]] by Jalisco-born José Clemente Orozco, one of Mexico's most important artists and one of the "Big Three" artists of the muralism period. Outside the Centro Histórico are: * '''Sector Hidalgo'''— in northwest of the Centro Histórico, Hidalgo is a largely residential sector encompassing the financial district and the '''[http://www.gcc.com.mx/ Country Club Guadalajara]'''. * '''Sector Libertad'''— northeast of the Centro Histórico, Sector Libertad is mostly given over to industrial use. However, the southwest part of the sector, close to the Centro Histórico, boasts a traditional market ('''Mercado Libertad''') and the '''Plaza de los Mariachis'''. * '''Sector Juárez'''— southwest of the Centro Histórico, Sector Juárez is a shoppers' paradise: it boasts two shopping malls ('''Centro Magno''' and '''Galerias'''), as well as the popular '''Minerva''', '''Chapultepec''', and '''Zona Rosa''' shopping areas. * '''Sector Reforma'''— southeast of the Centro Histórico, Reforma is also a mostly industrial sector, but visitors will no doubt be interested in the pleasant, tree-filled '''Parque Agua Azul''', as well as the '''Tianguis Cultural de Guadalajara''', a street market where alternative clothing and articles such as spiked belts, black trenchcoats, military uniforms, used books and trading cards are for sale at good prices. [[File:Calles GDL.svg|Streets of Guadalajara|thumb|350px]] Still further from central Guadalajara are several suburbs (''municipios'') that are cities in their own right. Several of these are also of interest to visitors, including: *'''Tlaquepaque''' — about 30 minutes by car southeast of the Centro Histórico, downtown Tlaquepaque is a charming streetscape redolent of old Mexico. An important arts and crafts center, Tlaquepaque has a vibrant shopping district where you can buy local pottery and handicrafts, as well as many lovely restaurants, art galleries, and a regional ceramics museum. *'''Tonalá''' — immediately east of Tlaquepaque, Tonalá contains Guadalajara's main bus station, handicraft shops and markets, and the large '''Parque Solidaridad'''. *'''Zapopan''' — a large, busy suburb northwest of Guadalajara, is famous for the old-fashioned charm of its downtown, its active nightlife fueled by the three large private universities within the city limits ('''Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara''', '''Tecnológico de Monterrey''' and '''Universidad del Valle de Atemajac'''), its proliferation of modern shopping malls that will make American suburbanites feel right at home, and—by contrast—also large expanses of pristine nature, such as the '''Bosque de Colomos''' and the gargantuan '''Bosque La Primavera'''. The 275-diagonal bus route runs from Tlaquepaque through the Centro to Zapopan, providing convenient access to all of these outer districts. ===History=== The co-founders of Guadalajara were Doña Beatriz de Hernández and Governor Cristobal de Oñate. In the Plaza de los Fundadores there is a monument in honor of both of them. Guadalajara, and Jalisco in general, were the epicenter of the '''Cristero Wars''' (1926-1929) — a rebellion by Catholic guerrillas against the secularizing reforms of President Plutarco Calles. One of the first armed conflicts of the rebellion took place in Guadalajara in the '''Santuario de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe''' on August 3, 1926, where a group of several hundred Cristeros engaged in a shootout with federal troops. Guadalajara was attacked (unsuccessfully) by the Cristero armies in March 1929. In the 1950s, Avenida Juárez was widened to create today's arterial road of Juárez-Vallarta which you see today. A famous part of that work was the moving of the central telephone exchange without the disruption of service. Pictures of this feat of engineering can be seen in the '''City Museum''' ''(Museo de la Ciudad)''. In April 1992, Sector Reforma was rocked by a huge explosion of gasoline, when a gasoline pipeline leaked into the sewers over a period of days until the fumes finally detonated. Some 200 Tapatíos were killed and several thousand injured. The explosion affected mostly the working-class and industrial areas on the south side of the city. In May 1993, Cardinal Juan Jesús Posadas Ocampo of Guadalajara was killed at the Guadalajara airport. Though at the time the murder was thought to have been some sort of politically motivated assassination, subsequent investigations favor the theory that the cardinal was caught by mistake in drug-related violence, his motorcade having been mistaken for that of a drug lord. Cardinal Ocampo is buried beneath the high altar of the '''Catedral de Guadalajara''', probably because it was first suspected that the motives for his murder were political, rather than accidental. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de Guadalajara Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla | alt={{IATA|GDL}} | url=http://www.aeropuertosgap.com.mx/ | email= | address= | lat=20.521837 | long=-103.311145 | directions=south of city along the Guadalajara-Chapala Highway | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Guadalajara International Airport | wikidata=Q932025 | lastedit=2017-01-03 | content=Airlines serving GDL include [http://www.aeromexico.com AeroMexico], [http://www.alaskaair.com/ Alaska Airlines], [http://www.aa.com/ American Airlines], [http://www.copaair.com/ Copa Airlines], [http://www.delta.com/ Delta], [http://www.united.com United], [http://www.vivaaerobus.com VivaAerobus], and [http://www.volaris.mx Volaris].}} At the airport, always buy the taxi chit from the booth before exiting the terminal, then present it to the licensed driver. Many hotels offer airport pickups that can be cheaper. Uber drivers are not allowed to pick up passengers at the airport. A common way to get around this limitation is to walk outside the airport a few minutes away to the nearby UPS distribution center (labeled as "Centro de Envios UPS" on Google maps). Set your Uber pick up location at this UPS center, which is outside the airport's restrictions and a driver will pick you up there. The app Moovit finds a better bus connection from the airport to your accommodation than Google Maps (as of Dec 2021). The bus stops at the bottom of Terminal 1 and goes to the '''Old Bus Station''' close to the Centro Histórico and costs M$9.50 (Dec 2021). To get to the bus station of the airport, take a right upon exiting the airport building and follow the signs to the "Terminal Terrestre." Walk past the police station and FedEx building. Pay when getting on the bus. There is a bus station inside the airport for the Chapala bus line. Buses leaving the airport go to the Central Vieja (Old Bus Station) downtown, as well as to towns around Lake Chapala, including [[Chapala]] and [[Ajijic]]. The buses operate from 06:00 - 21:00. ===By bus=== Guadalajara has two bus stations: [[File:CentralCamionesGDL.jpg|thumb|Ticket counters in the Central de Autobuses]] * {{marker | type=go | name=Central de Autobuses Guadalajara | alt=New Bus Station | lat=20.621432 | long=-103.285841}} – This is the new main bus station in the suburb of Tlaquepaque, which serves all long-distance routes (generally those which leave the state of Jalisco). This is a large, regional bus hub with numerous bus companies and space to load and unload 100 or more buses at a time. It is a clean, modern station with waiting rooms and restaurants. Restrooms are clean but require payment of M$7 (coins only). From this bus station to the Centro Histórico it's particularly convenient by subway (MiTren). If you arrive by bus and want to use the train, look across the parking lot as you exit the terminal. Note the location of the red Kentucky Fried Chicken sign. Walk towards KFC, to the left of the parking lot, then turn left in front of KFC and cross the street. You will be in the train station. A trip anywhere the train goes will cost 10 pesos (9.50 per ride if you buy a card). * {{marker | type=go | name=Central Vieja| alt=Old Bus Station | address=Calle Los Angeles 218 | lat= 20.6629237 | long= -103.3449105}} - Just south of downtown, a few blocks from the San Juan de Dios marketplace, the Central Vieja is served by regional second-class bus lines to nearby pueblos such as [[Tequila]], [[Mazamitla]], [[Sayula]] and [[Chapala]]. There are many bus lines serving almost every corner of the state of Jalisco. The buses themselves are often clean and very comfortable, and are sometimes indistinguishable from the first-class buses operated on long-distance routes. Fares are very reasonable, for example M$80 (US$4) to Chapala, M$100 (US$5) to Mazamitla. It is advisable to use an Uber or taxi to and from the station as the surrounding area has quite a bit of crime and is regarded as dangerous for outsiders. ===By van=== If you come from '''León''' and want to take a '''second-class van''' to Guadalajara: '''[https://roll-bits.com/ Roll&bits]''' has daily rides for about M$200 (May 2022). Just book your ticket online on their website. The vans have a big trunk for luggage. === By carpooling === From and to Puerto Vallarta it's around M$300 (Nov 2021) on Blablacar. ===By car=== *'''Federal Highway 15''' ''(Carretera Federal 15)'' connects Guadalajara with Mexico City to the east. ==Get around== {{mapframe|20.666667|-103.35|zoom=12}} The Centro (downtown) is best accessible by walking. Most attractions lie within an area of about 1 km long by 350 m wide. For longer trips, or to get in and out of the Centro, use the bus, subway or a taxi. There are also '''horse-drawn carriages''' ''(calandrias)'', which are more expensive and touristy. ===By e-hailing=== Uber, Cabify and Didi cover the city. ===By bike=== Guadalajara integrates bike rentals in its urban transportation plan. Racks of sturdy rental bikes, most painted green and emblazoned with "Mi Bici" logos, are located in high traffic areas including many city parks, Metro stations, and bus stops. The [https://www.mibici.net/en/ Mi Bici web site] provides a site map showing the locations of bike rental kiosks. Bikes can be rented via an annual subscription (about M$470) or on a temporary basis. Traffic can be chaotic on city streets, but the local government is making good progress in setting aside dedicated traffic lanes for bikes. ===By bus=== For finding connections, Moovit and Google Maps cover the city including the subway. Regular buses are green or red and have a "Mi Transporte" logo on the side, they cost M$9.50 (Dec 2023) and cover almost every city street. You can pay with the public transport card or in cash. You don't get change. If paying with a bill, you can fold it and push it through the coin slot inside the bus. Most bus stops have a signpost with a blue sign and a picture of a bus as well as triangular markings on the road with the word ''parada'' (bus stop). Route numbers and final destinations are shown on a lighted display on front of the bus and next to the door. When you wait for a bus, check the ''destination screen'', the ''windshield'' and on the ''left of the front door'', to be sure it's your bus line. It might be good to always ask the bus driver if he goes to your destination. '''Metropolitan Area Mass Transit System''' ''(Sistema de Transporte Colectivo de la Zona Metropolitana)'' is the local transit authority. Check their web site for maps, schedules, and fare information. Alternatively, try [http://www.buscaturuta.com Busca Tu Ruta]{{Dead link|date=February 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Search for Your Route). One particularly useful method for getting back and forth between the Centro Histórico and the Zona Rosa/Minerva area is the '''Guadalajara Trolley Bus''' ("Mi Trole"). Westbound trolleys travel along Avenida Vallarta; eastbound trolleys along Avenida Hidalgo. Just look overhead for the pair of electrical power cables. In the Centro Histórico you can catch the Trolebús on Avenida Hidalgo up to the east side of the Plaza de la Liberación, where it makes the turn to head up to Calzada Independencia and back west. There is also an open-top double-decker '''tourist bus''' ''(TuriBus)'' that leaves from the Rotunda and will take you past all the main sites in Guadalajara, Tlaquepaque and Zapopan. Riders can get on and off the bus at will all day long, for a flat rate. Tour operators use luxury buses (such as Turquesa, Tour and Cardenal). [[File:GDL megabus.jpg|thumb|Mi Macro]] Guadalajara has a modern bus rapid-transit (BRT) system that operates along two lines. The system is called Macrobus (or simply '''Mi Macro'''). It consists of articulated double-length buses that run in dedicated lanes. They are often twice as fast as using Mi Bus (or even Ubers). The fare is M$9.50, but is most conveniently paid with a 10-peso coin at the turnstiles (no change, but who cares since it's half a peso). * '''Calzada''' runs diagonally southwest-northeast, crossing the Centro Historico at "Bicentenario", which connects to the "Independencia" station for ''Mi Tren'' (subway). The Calzada line stops at the Central de Autobuses and is also useful for visiting "Tlaqapaque Centro". An extension to the airport is under construction. * '''Periferico''' is 3/4 of a loop around the city. The line is a 42 km long arc with 42 stations. ===By taxi=== Taxis are another option if you don't want to try to figure out the buses. You can either agree on a price with the cab driver or ask him to turn the meter on. Using the latter option, there is a risk that the driver won't the take the shortest possible route if he thinks you don't know it yourself. The meter will normally be a better price than the price the hotel will tell you to pay if they call you a cab. As always, be sure to ask the fare before you get in. Cabs cost more at night or when they have to cross the outer ring ''(Anillo Periférico)'' of the city. At night, the prices are doubled. If the driver is using a meter, there's also a starting price. Fares to and from the airport are set. If arriving at the Guadalajara airport, a taxi monopoly provides the service from the airport. Pay for your taxi ride at the booths outside of the arrival halls. You can take a normal taxi ''to'' the airport, though. ===By subway=== [[File:Metro_Guadalajara_map.svg|thumb|Guadalajara subway map]] [[File:GDL Metro.jpg|thumb|Mi Tren in Guadalajara]] There is a light-rail '''subway system''' (''Tren Ligero'' or ''Mi Tren'') that can be useful for travelers. There are three lines with two that meet at the western edge of the Centro Histórico, and a third that runs diagonally across the city. (A fourth line is under construction.) On transit maps, they are designated as "Mi Tren" with a block such as L1 or L2 that designate the line. One line runs north-to-south beneath Avenida Federalismo to the edges of the city in both directions. The second runs west-to-east through the Centro Histórico to the eastern suburbs, and the third runs diagonally across the city from Zapopan in the northwest to Tlaquepaque in the southeast. The train can be particularly useful for getting to or from the main (new) bus station as well as for visits to the colonial center of Tlaqapaque where the [[Mexican artesanias|artesanias]] shops fill the streets. The fare is M$9.50 (Dec 2024). You can pay with the public transport card or by cash at the machine: For the latter just push on the blue button on the screen. You can buy a single-trip ticket for 10 pesos (the machine does not give you change). The subway closes at 23:00. A site map and more information about the system is at the [https://www.siteur.gob.mx/ SITEUR] web page. SITEUR is the government agency responsible for electric transit systems in Guadalajara, including Mi Tren, Mi Macro, and the Trole. A public transport card costs M$30 (Dec 2021) and can be purchased from a ticket machine in the entrance of a subway station. It can be used for the Metro, BRT, local buses and for bikesharing (Mi Bici). [[File:Pre-Tren autobus100 2826.jpg|thumb|The Pre-Tren]] A bus service called '''Pre-Tren''' ("Pre-Train") extends from the main subway station (Juárez) through the Zona Rosa to the west Anillo Periférico at a 50% discounted fare for subway card users. Pre-Trenes provide a good service with air-conditioned, red-colored units. The service is better than the smaller green "Mi Transporte" buses ''(camiones)''. ===By car=== You may also rent a car from airport, most major car rental companies such [http://www.Avis.com.com Avis]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.Nationalcar..com National Car Rental], [https://www.citycarrental.com/guadalajara-car-rental City Car Rental],Hertz and Europcar have booths at the baggage claim area. There are also some local car rentals such as [http://www.veico.com Veico Car Rental] and [http://mobixcarrental.com Mobix Car Rental] just outside the airport that also have good cars and often lower prices. Rental cars are only useful for getting outside the urban area (such as driving to [[Puerto Vallarta]] or the [[Costalegre]]. Within the urban area, congestion is unavoidable, navigation very hard (with many 1-way streets), and parking is often hard to find. ==See== ===Centro Histórico and nearby=== [[File:Hospicio Cabañas Nocturno.JPG|thumbnail|Cabañas in the nighttime]] [[File:Hidalgo statue.jpg|This [[Sculpture|statue]] of Miguel de Hidalgo is in the Plaza de la Liberación.|thumb|200px]] [[File:Parque Colomos.jpg|thumb|Colomos Forest]] * {{see | name=Belén Cemetery | alt=Panteón de Belén | url= | email= | address=Belén 684, El Retiro | lat=20.687533 | long=-103.3449 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 7786 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tours Tu-Sa 10:00, 11:00, 13:00 and 14:00, Th-Sa also at 20:30, 22:00 and 23:30 | price= | wikipedia=Panteón de Belén | wikidata=Q3936203 | content=This old cemetery dates back to 1786. It has been converted into a museum that is full of interesting stories of cemetery hauntings and Tapatío culture in general. There are also night tours Th-Sa that many people are afraid to take! Photos and videos for a fee. Tours are offered.}} * {{see | name=Cabañas Cultural Institute | alt=Instituto Cultural Cabañas | url=https://museocabanas.jalisco.gob.mx | email= | address=Cabañas 8, San Juan de Dios | lat=20.676877 | long=-103.337700 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3668 1642 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 | price=M$80; teachers, students, and seniors $60 ($30 with valid ID, kids 6-12 also), free entry on Tuesdays; camera fee $30, video fee $40; Guillermo del Toro Cinema $30, teachers, students and seniors $25 | lastedit=2023-05-16 | content=This [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]] east of Plaza de la Liberación is a cultural and art center where the fresco paintings of Jose Clemente Orozco are exhibited. }} * {{see | name=City Museum | alt=Museo de la Ciudad | url=http://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-de-la-ciudad-de-guadalajara | email= | address=Independencia 684, Zona Centro | lat=20.678166 | long=-103.352078 | directions= | phone=+52 33 1201 8712 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-17:30, Su 10:00-14:30 | price=M$20, teachers and students $10, free for children under 12 and Su | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=Exploring Guadalajara's over 450 years of history, the Museo de la Ciudad is situated in a former convent in the Centro Histórico that dates to the 18th Century. The museum's permanent collection is housed in six exhibition halls arranged chronologically according to century (16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st) and comprises artifacts and explanatory tests related to the history of Guadalajara in terms of art and architecture, ethnography, urban development, and the everyday life of Tapatíos. Temporary exhibits are also displayed, and lectures, workshops and symposia often take place in the auditorium and outdoor courtyard. }} * {{see | name=Museum of the Arts University of Guadalajara | alt=MUSA, Museo de las Artes Universidad de Guadalajara | url=http://www.musaudg.mx/ | email= | address=Av Juárez 975, Col Americana | lat=20.67423 | long=-103.35897 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3134 1664 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, closed M | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=University museum featuring temporary exhibits by local artists. The museum's star attraction is a lecture hall with a backdrop of a famous mural by Jose Clemente Orozco. }} * {{see | name=Cross of Plazas | alt=Cruz de Plazas | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=These four plazas are laid out in the form of a cross, with the Catedral at the center. Any of them offer a nice spot to walk through or rest in for a few minutes, and most have plenty of food vendors nearby. The plazas that make up the Cross are: }} ** {{see | name=Plaza Guadalajara | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67704 | long=-103.34783 | directions=West of the cathedral, between Av. Hidalgo and Calle de Morelos, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Located directly in front of the cathedral, Plaza Guadalajara contains a circular fountain and an outdoor restaurant. Under the fountain there is an underground commercial center which offers all kinds of goods for sale including fruit, beverages and jewelry. }} ** {{see | name=Plaza de Armas | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67619 | long=-103.34694 | directions=south of the cathedral, between Calle de Morelos and Calle Pedro Moreno, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Plaza de Armas offers one of the best views of the cathedral, as well as the '''Government Palace'''. It features a French ironwork bandstand that was purchased by former Mexican president Porfirio Díaz in 1885, and four statues on the corners of the place symbolizing the four seasons. The bandstand serves as the performing arena for marching bands. }} ** {{see | name=Plaza de la Liberación | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67703 | long=-103.34591 | directions=east of the cathedral, between Av. Hidalgo and Calle de Morelos, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This plaza features two large cup-shaped fountains and a gigantic sculpture of Miguel Hidalgo, the man who signed the Mexican Declaration of Independence in the current Governor's Office. It also serves as an atrium for the oldest surviving theater in the city, the '''Teatro Degollado''', and it's the usual spot for massive free concerts. }} ** {{see | name=Rotunda of Illustrious Jaliscans | alt=Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67776 | long=-103.34701 | directions=north of the cathedral, between Av. Hidalgo and Calle Independencia, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This lovely circular monument of fluted columns is a mausoleum containing the ashes of 98 important men and women born in Jalisco. The bright and busy atmosphere of the park around it contrasts with the serious aspect of the Rotunda. On the southern side (across the street from the cathedral) is the bus stop for the TuriBus. }} * {{see | name=Government Palace | alt=Palacio de Gobierno | url=http://www.jalisco.gob.mx | email= | address=Corona 31, Zona Centro | lat=20.67625 | long=-103.34607 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3668 1800 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-20:00 | price= | wikidata=Q110284122 | content=This is the historical center of the government of the State of Jalisco. Today it is mostly visited for its murals, the work of the famous Jalisciense artist, José Clemente Orozco. The most famous of these is a huge portrait of Miguel Hidalgo in the vault of the old chambers of the State Council. }} * {{see | name=Guadalajara Cathedral | alt=Catedral de la Asunción de María Santísima | url=http://arquidiocesisgdl.org/inicio.php | email= | address=Fray Antonio Alcalde 10, Zona Centro | lat=20.677012 | long=-103.346984 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 7168 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1706069 | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=Construction of this Guadalajara landmark started in the 1560s and took about 50 years to complete. The current towers were replaced on 1854 by architect Manuel Gómez Ibarra after an earthquake destroyed the originals in 1818. While visiting the Cathedral, a must-see is the mural "The Immaculate Conception" ''(La Purísima Concepción)'' by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo. Also here is the [http://www.museodeartesacro.com.mx/ Museo de Arte Sacro]. The cathedral's architecture is an eclectic mix of the Gothic, Neoclassical and Palladian styles. }} * {{see | name=Guadalajara Regional Museum | alt=Museo Regional de Guadalajara | url=http://www.inah.gob.mx/paseos/museoregionalguadalajara/ | email= | address=Liceo 60, Zona Centro | lat=20.677804 | long=-103.346421 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 2703 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 09:00-17:30, Su 09:00-16:30 | price= | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=A pleasant museum to spend a few hours in, especially on a hot day when you need some time out of the sun. It features the skeleton of a mammoth found on the nearby Laguna de Chapala. }} * {{see | name=Museo de lo Increíble | alt= | url=http://museodecera.com.mx/ | email= | address=C. Morelos 217 | lat=20.67656 | long=-103.34516 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614 8487 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=It sounds tacky, but this wax/oddities museum can be an interesting way to learn about Jaliscian history. }} * {{see | name=Plaza de los Mariachis | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av. Javier Mina at Calz. Independencia Sur, San Juan de Dios | lat=20.67495 | long=-103.3414 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28517416 | content=The official name of this small triangular plaza is Plaza Pepe Guizar, named for the composer who was responsible for the song "Guadalajara". However, its popular name comes from the mariachi bands who, for a small fee, will serenade you while enjoying the restaurants and bars around the square (a word of warning, though: this neighborhood becomes sketchy after dark). The Plaza de los Mariachis is where the famous '''Mexican Hat Dance''' ''(Jarabe Tapatío)'' was born. }} * {{see | name=Acuario Michin | alt= | url=https://acuariomichin.com/guadalajara/ | email= | address=Mariano de la Bárcena 990 | lat=20.69242 | long=-103.35119 | directions=next to Parque Alcalde | phone=+52 33 1644 9910 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11ː00-18ː00 | price= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Good representation of aquatic species here. }} * {{see | name=Blue Water Park | alt=Parque Agua Azul | url= | email=parque-agua-azul-92@hotmail.com | address=Calz. Independencia Sur 973, Reforma | lat=20.6596 | long=-103.3482 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3619 0328 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 | price= | content=Open air concerts, a butterfly enclosure, an aviary and plenty of greenery are some of the things that can be enjoyed at Agua Azul. This is a good place to take a break from the often dry, dusty and crowded environment of the city. The park houses a museum of paleontology, and there is a museum of regional archaeology just across Calzada Independencia. The 1.5 km from the Centro Histórico to the park is quite walkable, but it is also accessible via the 62A and 62D buses along Calzada Independencia. }} ===Minerva, Chapultepec, and west of the Centro Histórico=== * {{see | name=Chapalita Roundabout | alt=Glorieta Chapalita | url=http://www.glorietachapalita.com | email= | address=Av. Guadalupe at Av. de las Rosas, Chapalita, Zapopan | lat=20.666 | long=-103.403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A verdant gathering place in a lovely neighborhood ''(colonia)'' in the suburb of Zapopan, this "garden of art" sees local artists showing off their creations every Sunday while local residents show off their dogs. Raucous celebrations take place here on national holidays. }} * {{see | name=The Expiatory Church of the Blessed Sacrament | alt=El Expiatorio, Templo del Santísimo Sacramento | url=https://m.facebook.com/pages/Templo-Expiatorio/119386111470505 | email= | address=López Cotilla 935, Col. Americano | lat=20.673598 | long=-103.358947 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 3410 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento | image=Templo Expiatorio de GDL.jpg | wikidata=Q7698848 | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=This finely detailed Gothic Revival cathedral was built over decades starting in the late 19th century. There is a mechanical clock in the bell tower that features a procession of the Twelve Apostles at 09:00, 12:00 and 18:00. The interior of the church features a lovely collection of stained glass windows. }} * {{see | name=Minerva Roundabout | alt=Glorieta Minerva | url= | email= | address=Av. Ignacio Vallarta at Av. Adolfo López Mateos, Zona Centro | lat=20.674167 | long=-103.387222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5964364 | content=This ''glorieta'' (traffic circle) showcases a giant statue of the Roman goddess Minerva (one of the most important symbols of Guadalajara), surrounded by a fountain. It's sometimes shut down to traffic and opened to pedestrians when there's a major city celebration—such as when the '''Chivas''' football team wins a major game. }} * {{see | name=Monument of the Child Heroes | alt=Monumento a los Niños Héroes | url= | email= | address=Av. Niños Héroes at Av. Chapultepec Sur, Moderna | lat=20.66684 | long=-103.36843 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 1340 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A massive stone spire that memorializes six teenage military cadets who died defending Mexico City's military academy from U.S. forces during the Mexican-American War. }} * {{see | name=Vallarta Arch | alt=Arcos Vallarta | url= | email= | address=Av. Ignacio Vallarta just east of Glorieta Minerva, Zona Centro | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1577816 | content=This Romanesque double arch stands at what was once the western edge of the city. There are nice views to be had from the top, and interesting murals to view on the way up. }} ===Zapopan=== * {{see | name=Colomos Forest | alt=Bosque Los Colomos | url=https://bosquesurbanos.mx/bosques/bosque-los-colomos | email= | address=El Chaco 3200, Colomos Providencia, Zapopan | lat=20.707778 | long=-103.392889 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3641 3804 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-15:00 | price= | image=Parque Colomos.jpg | wikidata=Q5979585 | content=This lovely, family-friendly green space is a 92-hectare urban forest that boasts 30,000 trees of diverse species. Its mission is to conserve a beautiful example of a native woodland in an urban environment and educate visitors on ways for humans to better coexist with nature. In terms of visitor amenities, Colomos boasts lovely gardens including a Japanese garden and a cactus garden, goldfish ponds where children enjoy feeding the fish, and horseback riding. Smoking is strictly prohibited. }} * {{see | name=Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan | alt= | url=https://arquidiocesisgdl.org/ | email= | address=Calle Eva Briseño 152, Zapopan | lat=20.72125 | long=-103.39231 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3633 0141 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Basilica_of_Our_Lady_of_Zapopan | wikidata=Q4867367 | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=This basilica whose construction began in 1689 is especially popular because it preserves a wooden Virgin relic that came from Spain in the 16th century, and which is tied to a visitation by the Virgin herself with the intent of getting the indigenous people to lay down their weapons in the process of Spanish colonization. On October 12 a pilgrimage that includes up to a million people travels from the Cathedral of Guadalajara to this Basilica, where a mass is held and people celebrate with music, food and fireworks. }} * {{see | name=Trompo Mágico Museum | alt= | url=http://trompomagico.jalisco.gob.mx/ | email= | address=Av. Central Guillermo Gonzalez Camarena 750, Zapopan | lat=20.72269 | long=-103.43150 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3030 0001 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-F 09:00-18:00, Sa Su 11:00-19:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Interactive kids museum. }} * {{see | name=Calaverandia - Parque Temático | alt= | url=https://www.calaverandia.mx/en/ | email= | address=Avenida Manuel Ávila Camacho | lat=20.71211 | long=-103.37357 | directions=located in Parque Avila Camacho | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=A thematic amusement park. }} ===Tlaquepaque=== [[File:FotoCH 17.JPG|Plaza Tapatia|thumb]] The municipalities of Tlaquepaque and Tonala to the southeast of Guadalajara are essentially suburbs, though they retain much of their small-town charm. They had similar origins in originally being settlements of indigenous tribes with a pottery industry and were overtaken by the Spanish conquistador Nuño de Guzmán in 1530. Tlaquepaque also hosted Miguel Hidalgo on his way to Guadalajara in the [[Mexican War of Independence]]. Today the hallmark feature of these places is still pottery, though shops with furniture, textiles and other handicrafts are plentiful. In Tonala, don't miss the '''Thursday and Sunday street market''' revolving around handicrafts in front of the main church. * {{see | name=Museo Regional de la Ceramica | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-regional-de-la-ceramica-de-tlaquepaque | email= | address=Calle Independencia 237, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.63914 | long=-103.31465 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3860 1177 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 09:00-17:00 | price=free | wikipedia=Museo_Regional_de_la_Ceramica,_Tlaquepaque | wikidata=Q6940511 | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=A tribute to the pottery heritage of Tlaquepaque. Portrays different styles like burnished clay, high temperature, flag clay and petatillo. }} * {{see | name=Parroquia San Pedro Apóstol | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/ParroquiaSanPedroTlaquepaque | email= | address=Guillermo Prieto 60, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.64011 | long=-103.31177 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635 1001 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 09:30-13:30, 16:30-20:00 Sa; 09:30-13:30; closed Su | price= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Baroque/Byzantine-designed parish that dates to 1845, fronting the city square known as Jardin Hidalgo. }} * {{see | name=Centro Cultural El Refugio | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/casas-de-la-cultura/centro-cultural-el-refugio | email= | address=Calle Donato Guerra 160, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.64204 | long=-103.31292 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3562 7036 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 09:00-15:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=This building built in 1885 to be a psychiatric hospital now hosts cultural events and the Pantaleón Panduro, or display of winners from the National Ceramics Contest. }} ===Tonala=== * {{see | name=Museo Regional Tonallan | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-regional-tonallan | email= | address=Calle Ramón Corona 73, Tonalá | lat=20.62520 | long=-103.23980 | directions= | phone=+52 33 1200 3936 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, closed M | price=free | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Includes artwork pertaining to the Nahual, a shapeshifter sort of being. }} * {{see | name=Parroquia de Santiago Apostol/Capilla de la Cruz Blanca | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Parroquia-Santiago-Ap%C3%B3stol-Tonal%C3%A1-255442698506992/ | email= | address=Av Benito Juarez 80, Tonalá | lat=20.62416 | long=-103.24259 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3683 1186 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=16th-century churches. The parroquia is known for its Dance of the Tastoanes featuring masks on July 25th. }} * {{see | name=Museo Nacional de la Cerámica | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-nacional-de-la-ceramica-jorge-wilmot | email= | address=Calle Constitución 104, Tonalá | lat=20.62684 | long=-103.24313 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3683 2519 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=more about ceramics. }} ===Huentitán=== [[File:Huentitan Canyon GDL.jpg|thumb|Huentitan-Oblatos Canyon]] * {{see | name=Huentitán-Oblatos Canyon | alt=Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos | url= | email= | address=North end of Calz. Independencia Norte, Huentitán el Alto | lat=20.70583 | long=-103.28306 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3674 0238 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This is the forested gorge of the Río Lerma-Santiago, accessible via buses #62A and #62D which run along Calzada Independencia. There are two locations with fine views of the gorge. }} * {{see | name=Guadalajara Zoo | alt=Zoológico Guadalajara | url=http://www.zooguadalajara.com.mx | email= | address=Paseo del Zoológico 600, Huentitán el Alto | lat=20.728381 | long=-103.308333 | directions=Mi Mega to Zoologico | phone=+52 33 3674 4488 | tollfree= | hours=W-Su 10:00-18:00 when school is in session, daily 10:00-18:00 during summer break and on holiday weekends | price=varies by packet, M$200-400 (Nov 2024) | wikipedia=Guadalajara Zoo | wikidata=Q3576044 | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=The modern Guadalajara Zoo is next to the Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos. It's worth visiting for its view of the canyon, and for its collection of animals, its safari ride, aerial cable cars, and its panoramic train. Other highlights include a reptile house, an arctic habitat, a nocturnal environment exhibit and a tropical forest simulated environment. Special packages available for different combinations of access to panoramic train, safari, aerial cable cars, and/or aquarium }} * {{see | name=Independencia Overlook Park | alt=Parque Mirador Independencia | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.74032 | long=-103.31023 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6062388 | content=This lovely park is at the northern terminus of Calzada Independencia adjacent to the Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos, with beautiful views of the canyon. Pretty gardens and benches are peppered around the park, allowing visitors to sit and enjoy the different views the park has to offer. This is also the starting point for many of the hiking trails that traverse the canyon. }} ==Do== {{mapframe|name=Map of the region around Guadalajara}} === City tour=== You can make a sightseeing tour in a very economically and animal friendly carriage. These are not powered by a horse, instead by a battery like an electric car. The start is at the cathedral. Prices are M$300 for half an hour, M$400-500 for a whole hour (Dec 2021). === Conventions === Guadalajara is Latin America's top destination for business conventions with the city's Expo Guadalajara convention center hosting many of the country's largest trade shows. * {{do | name=Expo Guadalajara | url=https://expoguadalajara.mx/ | address=Av. Mariano Otero 1499, Verde Valle | lat=20.65387807345402 | long=-103.39176410120137 | phone=+52 333 343 3000 | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Largest event venue in Mexico. Hosts major industrial trade shows throughout the year. }} ===Sports=== Guadalajara's sports culture is one of the most vibrant in Mexico, with a well-developed infrastructure of stadiums and facilities, achievements under its belt such as its successful turn as the host of the 2011 Pan-American Games, world-class athletes such as professional golfer Lorena Ochoa calling the city home, and big plans for the future. Guadalajara is also home to many ballet schools surrounding the metropolitan area. ====Football==== Of course, one would be remiss in talking about Guadalajara sports without mentioning the three professional football (''futbol'', i.e. what Americans call soccer) teams based there: '''Estudiantes''', '''Atlas''', and of course, '''Chivas'''. Chivas, more properly known as '''Club Deportivo Guadalajara''', is, according to FIFA, the most popular football team in Mexico. Chivas has won 11 first-division titles and holds the longest-ever season-opening winning streak: 8 back-to-back wins. Chivas is also the only football team in Mexico with exclusively Mexican players, whereas other teams have players of varying nationalities. The team colors are red, white, and blue, signifying "Fraternity, Union, and Sports". The new stadium, '''Estadio Akron''', with a capacity of 49,850, was inaugurated in 2010. [[File:Estadio Akron 02-07-2022 cabecera sur lado derecho.jpg|thumb|Estadio Akron is a FIFA World Cup venue]] * {{do | name=Estadio Akron | alt=formerly Estadio Omnilife | url=https://estadioakron.mx/ | email= | address=Circuito JVC 2800, Ayamonte, Zapopan | lat=20.681667 | long=-103.462778 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3777 5700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q666183 | lastedit=2025-01-10 | content=This is the stadium where most of the outdoor events for the 2011 Pan-American Games were held, and—more importantly—where the most popular football team in the city and the whole country, The stadium will host games for [[2026 FIFA World Cup|FIFA's 2026 World Cup]]. The stadium's home team, Deportivo Guadalajara (Chivas), has played since 2010. Chivas plays here every other Saturday at 19:00, unless otherwise specified. If you happen to be in Guadalajara on a Saturday, you are most likely to find either a Chivas football game in this stadium, or an Atlas game at Estadio Jalisco (below). Big games to watch out are Chivas vs. Atlas (which can be held in either stadiums depending on which one is scheduled as the home team) and Chivas vs. América—the "National Superclassic" ''(superclásico nacional)''—as these teams are bitter rivals. Either of these match-ups are sure to sell out the stadium and treat those lucky enough to get tickets to an intense atmosphere. Estadio Akron is a difficult place to reach by public transport. It is close to the Periférico Oriente, so taking a taxi is the best option. Alternatively, use any bus that will go around Periférico and you'll eventually get there, just ask the driver to let you know when you are there, since the stadium's visibility from Periférico is very limited.<br /><br />Two museums inside Estadio Akron should not be missed. '''Museo Chivas''' is a soccer museum focused on the stadium's home team, ''Chivas'', who are widely regarded as the most popular football team in Mexico. The museum chronicles the team's long history, with bios, statistics, and outstanding achievements of its players. The second museum is '''Jose Vergara Museo''', known as ''JOVEM''. This museum has nothing to do with soccer, making it an unlikely resident of the stadium. It is a design museum, focusing on the intersection of art and architecture. Guides are available to walk through the museum with you, explaining humanistic values comprising design elements. }} [[File:Estadio jalisco.jpg|thumb| Jalisco Stadium]] * {{do | name=Estadio Jalisco | alt=Jalisco Stadium | url=http://www.estadiojalisco.net | email= | address=Siete Colinas 1772, Independencia | lat=20.705 | long=-103.328139 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3637 0563 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1346716 | content=It's in Colonia Independencia, and can be reached by taking any bus along the Calzada Independencia and asking for the Estadio Jalisco. You will almost definitely see it if you look out, it will be on your left as you come from the center. Here the football team Atlas plays. Chivas used to play on this stadium until 2010, when Estadio Akron was completed. During the season there are league games every other Saturday. If Atlas is playing as a visitor, then you can look for a Chivas game at Estadio Akron. A big game to watch out for is Atlas vs. Chivas, which has an incredible atmosphere, though most games are worth experiencing. If you are of a nervous disposition, perhaps avoid the upper stands when there is a large crowd as it's known to shake when the crowds begin to jump. }} *{{do | name=Estadio Tres de Marzo | alt=March 3rd Stadium | url=https://www.facebook.com/Estadio-3-De-Marzo-252391198116915/ | email= | address=Patria 1201, Villa Universitaria, Zapopan | lat=20.693753 | long=-103.416136 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3610 1834 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q579997 | content=The Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara's football stadium in the north of the city, where "Los Estudiantes" play, is named for the date of the founding of the university in 1935. The Estudiantes play in the '''Primera Liga''' along with the other Guadalajara teams, Atlas and Chivas. }} ==== Baseball ==== Guadalajara hosts teams in both of Mexico's major professional leagues. Both play in the Estadio los Charros de Jalisco in the suburban municipality of Zapopan. The stadium was built in 2011 for the Panamerican Games and is often referred to as ''Estadio Panamericana'', though it was purchased by the Charros. * {{do | name=Estadio Los Charros de Jalisco | alt=Estadio Panamericano | url= | email= | address=Calle Sta. Lucía 373, Tepeyac, Zapopan | lat=20.727672 | long=-103.381458 | directions=use bus or taxi (no on-site parking) | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=Modern, state-of-the-art baseball stadium that is home field for both the [http://www.charrosjalisco.com '''Charros de Jalisco'''] (Pacific League, winter) and the '''Mariachis de Guadalajara''' (Mexican League, summer). The stadium is modern with unobstructed sight lines. Small, intimate park seating just 8,000 fans. Very clean and comfortable. Beware: Inconvenient, fan-hostile payment policies. The stadium requires you to buy their own payment card and use it for any purchases in the stadium (though credit cards are accepted for ticket purchase). The stadium is also difficult to reach as there is no parking and nearby access roads are blocked on game days. Take public transit, taxis, or Ubers and don't be surprised if they drop you off in an oddly uninviting neighborhood. }} ====Bullfighting==== * {{do | name=Nuevo Progreso Bullring | alt=Plaza de Toros Nuevo Progreso | url=https://plazanuevoprogreso.com.mx/ | email= | address=Montes Pirineos 1930, Monumental | lat=20.70198 | long=-103.32533 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3651 8378 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=It's right across the road from the Estadio Jalisco, just off Calzada Independencia. Bullfights take place at the Plaza Nuevo Progreso during the season on Sundays at 16:30. Those arriving by bus might not be able to see the bullring from the street, as it's hidden behind some trees, so get off when you see the Estadio Jalisco and go in the opposite direction. Be aware that [[Bullfighting]] is controversial and local courts blocked bullfights. Higher appellate courts may or may not have reversed the decision, but if you really want to see bullfights in Guadalajara, you may need to go to one of the suburbs that have their own bullrings (such as Tlaqapaque). }} ====Golf==== Golf is a popular past time with Mexican businessmen, but many courses are private and you would need an invitation from a member to play there. The following courses are open to the public or have some type of daily pass for non-members. Most of the golf courses are on the north side of Guadalajara, around Zapopan, but challenging courses may be found in any part of the city. * {{do | name=Atlas Country Club | alt= | url=https://country.atlas.com.mx/ | email= | address=Guadalajara-Chapala Road Km. 6.5 El Salto| lat=20.601554113763726 | long=-103.30527198401478 | directions=south side of Guadalajara, near Tonala | phone=+52 333 689 2620 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 07:00 - 21:00, but check weekend hours, which may be much shorter | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-03-28 | content=One of the best courses in Guadalajara is an 18-hole course designed by Joe Finger. Caddies are required and visitor greens fees often include the caddie service. }} * {{do | name=Club de Golf Santa Anita | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carr. Guadalajara-Morelia Km 6.5 | lat=20.564914519337734 | long=-103.46939760516346 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 11:00 - 19:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-03-28 | content=Classic 18-hole course with hills, long fairways, and a challenging final 4 holes. Facilities include a driving range, putting greens, a pro shop, a clubhouse with an upscale dining room, and outdoor patios to relax with a drink, enjoying the scenery. }} * {{do | name=El Cielo Country Club | alt= | url=http://www.elcielocc.com/ | email= | address=Paseo del Cielo 1, El Palomar | lat=20.606211818614288 | long=-103.47285399771202 | directions=on the west side of Guadalajara | phone=+52 33 3684 4436 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 07:00 - 19:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-03-28 | content=Affordable greens fees combined with challenging elevation drops and spectacular scenery with backgrounds of the city skyline and the nearby mountain ranges make this one of the most popular courses for visiting golfers. }} ===Performing arts=== [[File:Gdl-degollado.jpg|thumb|Jalisco Philharmonic taking the stage at Teatro Degollado]] * {{do | name=Filharmonica de Jalisco | alt=Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra | url=http://en.ofj.com.mx/ | email= | address=Teatro Degollado, Centro | lat=20.677168 | long=-103.344832 | directions= | phone=+52 3614 4773 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=One of Mexico's top professional orchestras, the Jalisco Philharmonic celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2015. The orchestra performs three full seasons of classical music from January to December each year under the direction of Jose Luis Castillo. The orchestra frequently tours abroad. The concert hall is a showcase of opulence that will be appreciated by students of music, architecture, and history. }} * {{do | name=Teatro Diana | alt= | url=http://www.teatrodiana.com/ | email= | address=Av. 16 de Septiembre 710, Mexicaltzingo | lat=20.665432 | long=-103.348996 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614 7940 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-03 | content=Modern performing arts venue built in 2005, hosting concerts, opera, ballet and other events. Seats about 2,400 patrons. }} ===Holidays and events=== ====Spring==== * {{do | name=Guadalajara Film Festival | alt=Festival Internacional del Cine de Guadalajara | url=http://www.ficg.mx/ | email= | address=Nebulosa 2916, Jardines del Bosque | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3121 7461 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Guadalajara International Film Festival | wikidata=Q1408552 | content=The biggest film festival in Latin America and one of the most important showcases for Mexican and Latin American cinema on the world stage, the Festival Internacional del Cine de Guadalajara takes place annually in early March. A bevy of awards are given in all categories of film, and it also serves as a forum for education and creative interchange among Latin American cineasts. }} =====Summer===== * {{do | name=International Mariachi and Charrería Conference | alt=Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi y la Charrería | url=http://www.mariachi-jalisco.com.mx/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mariachi bands from all over Mexico and the world meet the last week of August and the first week of September, usually at '''Teatro Degollado''' and the surrounding area, to play and compete for the delight of fans. You won't witness anything like this unique event anywhere else. }} ====Autumn==== * {{do | name=Independence Day | alt=Día de la Independencia | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Visitors who find themselves in Guadalajara on 16 September are in for a festive and patriotic treat. One traditional way that Tapatíos enjoy celebrating this holiday is with a reenactment of the "Cry of Pain" ''(Grito de Dolores)'', the incident that, in 1810, kicked off the war that ended with Mexico's independence from [[Spain]]. At the stroke of midnight, locals go to the main square and shout out in unison: half yell "Viva" and the other half "México", going on to the names of important heroes of Mexican history: "Viva Hidalgo", "Viva Morelos", and so on. }} * {{do | name=Pilgrimage of Our Lady of Zapopan | alt=Romería de la Virgen de Zapopan | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Celebrated in Guadalajara on 12 October, this event honors the local Virgin Mary figure of the Guadalajara area, the Virgen de Zapopan. On this day, over a million people parade the famous statuette from the downtown cathedral to its home in the '''Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Zapopan'''. This festival is only celebrated in the Guadalajara area, and is one of the largest examples of a [[w:Romería|romería]] outside Spain. It is inscribed by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. }} * {{do | name=International Book Fair | alt=Feria Internacional del Libro | url=http://www.fil.com.mx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=The "FIL" takes place from late November to early December in Guadalajara. Companies and delegations come from all over the world to exhibit their books and see books from other places. Every year a country or region serves as the guest of honor, presenting books that represent its particular literary tradition. }} ====Winter==== * {{do | name=Christmas | alt=Navidad | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Tapatío Christmas tradition that you may witness if you're in Guadalajara over the holidays is known as "Las Posadas" (The Inns). Children parade through the neighborhood recreating the passage of Joseph and Mary through Bethlehem, asking for shelter and being refused. Generally nowadays this is a celebration for family and friends, but if you know a Mexican, it's a great way to experience Mexican culture firsthand. Regular appearances include piñatas, mariachi bands, Mexican beer, tequila and general merriment. }} * {{do | name=Foundation of Guadalajara | alt=Fundación de Guadalajara | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Held on February 14th, this is a celebration to commemorate the foundation of the city of Guadalajara on that day in 1542. }} === Out of town trips === * {{marker | type=do | name=[[Tequila]] | lat=20.8830754 | long= -103.8343469}} – 65km in the west. Situated in a picturesque countryside setting, it's perhaps the quintessential Guadalajara side trip, and is the best place to sample Mexico's favorite liquor. The Jose Cuervo distillery has a packaged tour that will pick you up from your hotel, take you to an agave farm, then to the distillery for a tour with free samples and a gift shop, then gift you with vouchers for a free margarita and 10% off at a local restaurant. The city itself is also quaint and worth exploring. Tequila is easily accessible by bus (about 90 minutes one-way), and many hotels organize excursions there for their guests. However, perhaps the most fun way to get to Tequila is the [http://www.tequilaexpress.com.mx/ Tequila Express], a charming tourist railroad complete with tequila shots and roving mariachis. The train leaves Guadalajara's train station Sa & Su 10:00, returning the same evening. * {{marker | type=do | name=Laguna de Chapala | lat=20.2811878 | long=-103.1935038}} – 50 km in the south. It's the main regional vacation spot, a lovely lake surrounded by picturesque towns such as [[Chapala]] and [[Ajijic]] (the latter of which has a sizeable gringo expat community). Direct buses to Chapala leave from the Old Bus Station (Central Vieja). The 'directo' bus has A/C and takes 1 hour. It costs M$58 (Dec 2021) and departs every full hour from Guadalajara. On the way back the bus departs hourly 15 min after the full hour from Chapala. [[File:Los Guachimontones.JPG|Guachimontones|thumb]] *{{do |name=Guachimontones|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-05-31|content=65 km in the west. A pre-Columbian archaeological site near the town of Teuchitlán, about an hour west of Guadalajara, that dates to the period between 300 BC and 900 AD and is known for its unique circular stepped pyramids. This complex of more than 40 hectares was only discovered in the 1970s|wikidata=Q2989048|wikipedia=Guachimontones}} * {{do | name=Parque Bicentenario Puente de Calderon | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.6751 | long=-103.0101 | directions=off Route 80 east of Zapotlanejo | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:00-18:00 daily | price= | wikipedia=Battle_of_Calderón_Bridge | wikidata=Q786657 | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=45 km in the east. This 17th-century stone bridge was the site of the key Battle of the Bridge of Calderón in 1811 in the Mexican War of Independence. }} ==== Tequila ==== Visitors who enjoy gastronomy in general and alcoholic beverages more specifically will want to take the opportunity to experience Mexico's national drink among the people who make it and love it. There are numerous opportunities to join a tequila tasting in Guadalajara, and travelers who want to delve deeply into the history and the technical details of making, aging, and serving tequila can find many types of tequila tours, including those that follow the state's two official itineraries that are part of the ''[[Tequila Trail]]''. ==== Outdoor activities ==== Guadalajara is a highland city with an elevation of 1566 meters, set in the Atemajac Valley of the [[Sierra Madre|Sierra Madre Occidental]] mountain range. It offers outdoor enthusiasts excellent opportunities for vigorous outdoor activities, especially [[Hiking]], [[Mountain biking]]. These can be enjoyed in parks and protected natural areas that are easily accessible to many parts of the city. These natural areas include: * '''Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos''' - canyon with forested trails in the southern part of the city * '''[[La Primavera Biosphere Reserve]]''' - protected areas of forested inactive volcanoes with 12 marked nature trails for both hiking and mountain biking ==Learn== The [http://www.udg.mx/ Universidad de Guadalajara], often referred to simply as "U de G", is the most important institution of higher learning in western Mexico, and the second most important in the country after Mexico City's mammoth [http://www.unam.mx/ UNAM]. The University also serves as a center of cultural activity enjoyed by residents and visitors alike, such as the Ballet Folclórico and the {{marker|type=listing|name=[https://boletomovil.com/cineforoudg Cineforo Universidad]|lat=20.67515|long=-103.35875}}. Guadalajara offers many language schools for the fast growing need for learning Spanish. * {{listing | name=Guadalajara Language Center | alt= | url=https://www.glc.com.mx/ | email=glc@glc.com.mx | address=Francisco I. Madero #160a San Pedro Tlaquepaque Jalisco | lat=20.64195 | long=-103.31149 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635-2535 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 8AM-9PM, Sa 9AM-Noon | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-03-17 | content= }} * {{listing | name=IMAC | alt= | url=https://www.spanish-school.com.mx/ | email= info@spanish-school.com.mx | address=Donato Guerra 180 (Historic Downtown Area) | lat=20.67377 | long=-103.35076 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614-1414 | tollfree= | fax=+52 33 3613-4621 | hours=M-F 9AM-8PM, Sa 9AM-3PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-03-17 | content= }} ==Buy== In the centro are ATMs of BanCoppel, Banjercito, BanBajio and Citibanamex. In the Americana district there is a Banca Inbursa ATM inside the Sanborns, BanBajio, Banca Mifel and Santander. In the centro and Americana neighborhood are some stores of Oxxo and 7eleven as well as some minimarkets. On the Av Juárez is the {{marker | type=buy | name= big supermarket Soriana Súper| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.6748893 | long=-103.3517079 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | content=}}. The shopping scene in Guadalajara is centered around two opposing faces of Latin American culture: traditional open-air markets ''(tianguis)'' and the modern shopping plazas and malls that, more and more, are sprouting up around the outskirts of town. The latter can be found in particular proliferation southwest of the Centro Histórico in '''Sector Juárez''', as well as in suburban ''municipios'' such as '''Zapopan'''. A refreshing exception to this rule is the historic downtown district of '''Tlaquepaque''', southeast of Guadalajara proper. This area is characterized by a lively collection of shops centered on the pedestrian-only streets, '''Calle Independencia''' and '''Avenida Juárez'''. Emphasized in these charming shops are arts and handicrafts of all kinds: one-of-a-kind handmade furniture, textiles, jewelry, paintings, sculptures, glassware, home decor, and even chocolate. ===Tianguis=== These temporary open-air street markets or bazaars are a Mexican tradition dating back to the Aztec days, and are a great way to get up close and personal with local culture at its most real—and score some bargains in the process. Some of the biggest tianguis in Guadalajara include: * {{buy | name=Guadalajara Cultural Tianguis | alt=Tianguis Cultural de Guadalajara | url= | email= | address=Plaza Benito Juárez, corner Av. Wáshington and Av. 16 de Septiembre, Zona Centro | lat=20.659617 | long=-103.350569 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa 07:00-19:00 | price= | content=Popular especially with young people, the Tianguis Cultural is not only a great place to buy clothes and music, but also to catch free open-air concerts, mingle, see and be seen. }} * {{buy | name=Liberty Market | alt=Mercado Libertad | url= | email= | address=Javier Mina 52, San Juan de Dios | lat=20.67543 | long=-103.33948 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3618 0506 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 06:00-20:00 | price= | content=Known by locals as '''Mercado San Juan de Dios''' because of the river that used to pass through the area, the Mercado Libertad is a very busy, multi-story enclosed market; with hundreds of vendors, it's the largest market in Latin America. The market also houses a very popular and very good food court featuring everything from seafood to local favorites like '''birria''' (goat stew) and '''pozole''' (hominy and pork stew). It's a great place to get souvenirs. Unfortunately, it isn't the safest place in town, so make sure to always keep on the lookout for purse-snatchers. }} * {{buy | name=Tianguis el Baratillo | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Juan R. Zavala 38, Santa María | lat=20.683704 | long=-103.319313 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su 07:30-15:00 | price= | content=The largest tianguis in Guadalajara, this market sells anything and everything—tools, furniture, food, clothes and accessories, kitchenware, toys, and all manner of other articles—with an emphasis on used items sold at great bargains (hence its name El Baratillo, which roughly translates as "The Flea Market"). }} ===Malls and shopping centers=== * {{buy | name=Centro Magno | alt= | url=https://www.centro-magno.com/ | email= | address=Vallarta 2425, Arcos Vallarta | lat=20.67388 | long=-103.38057 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 1113 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Located between Avenidas Vallarta and López Cotilla, the Centro Magno has a big, wide, closed space in the middle, surrounded mostly by restaurants, fashion, electronics and bazaar stores, with a cinema on the top floor. It's served directly by bus routes 629A and 629B, and routes 626, 622, 24, 258 and 101 are also nearby. }} * {{buy | name=Galería del Calzado | alt= | url=http://www.galeriadelcalzado.com.mx/ | email= | address=Avenida México 3225, Vallarta San Jorge | lat=20.67851 | long=-103.39422 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3647 6422 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 11:00-21:00, Su 11:00-20:30 | price= | content=This is an entire mall that contains over 60 shoe stores, great for the dedicated footwear obsessive. As you can imagine, all prices and styles can be found here. }} * {{buy | name=Galerías Guadalajara | alt= | url=https://galeriasgdl.mx/ | email= | address=Rafael Sanzio 150, Residencial La Estancia, Zapopan | lat=20.676910 | long=-103.431900 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3113 9828 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11ː00-21ː00 | price= | wikidata=Q5874753 | lastedit=2026-02-10 | content=Guadalajara's biggest mall is at the intersection of Avenidas Vallarta and Rafael Sanzio. It houses Guadalajara's biggest multiplex cinema, with 20 THX projection rooms and 4 VIP rooms. Has multi-level parking ramps as well as more than 1 km² of open parking space shared with a Wal-Mart and a Sam's Club. Served by bus routes 25, 47 and 629. }} * {{buy | name=Plaza Andares | alt= | url=http://www.andares.com | email= | address=Puerta de Hierro 4965, Fraccionamiento Plaza Andares, Zapopan | lat=20.71027 | long=-103.41204 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3648 2298 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=At the corner of Avenidas Patria and Puerta de Hierro. Designer stores abound here: DKNY, Cartier, Hugo Boss, Mont Blanc, Helmut Lang, Fendi, Alexander McQueen, Versace, Armani, Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Valentino, Diesel, Cavalli, Calvin Klein, Channel and Dior. }} * {{buy | name=Plaza del Sol | alt= | url=http://www.plazadelsol.com | email= | address=López Mateos Sur 2375, Ciudad del Sol, Zapopan | lat=20.65046 | long=-103.40134 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3121 5950 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7203715 | content=This mall, Guadalajara's second-largest, is near the corner of Avenidas López Mateos and Mariano Otero. The mall boasts a multi-story car park and an open layout, with big, open spaces in the middle, surrounded by hallways. Served by bus routes 357, 101, 24, 258, 626, 629, 645 and 701, as well as the longer-distance buses that connect the nearby town of Santa Anita with the metropolitan area. The '''Torrena Tower''', measuring 336.5 m in height, is under construction next to both Plaza del Sol and '''Plaza Torrena''', a smaller, underground mall nearby that can be recognized by its white concrete dome. }} * {{buy | name=Plaza Patria | alt= | url=http://www.plazapatria.com | email= | address=Patria 45160, Altamira, Zapopan | lat=20.71242 | long=-103.37876 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Bounded by Avenidas Patria, Ávila Camacho and Américas, this two-story mall, smaller than many of the others on this list, nonetheless has a sizable assortment of stores. Clothes and electronics can be bought here, and there are also convenience stores and a supermarket. Served by bus routes 24, 25, 604, 622, 632, 634 and 701. }} ==Eat== Guadalajara has a wide range of restaurants with outstanding street vendors selling regional specialties (particularly birria, tortas, and various tacos). The city also has a mind-boggling variety of outstanding restaurants with dozens of 5-star restaurants offering an upscale experience and a wide range of international flavors. 2024 saw the famed Michelin Guide make its first pass through Mexico and its initial list of recommended Mexican restaurants included 25 outstanding restaurants. In addition to traditional Mexican specialties, Tapatíos seem to be especially fond of Italian food—a considerable number of restaurants of that type can be found around Guadalajara. If you miss American fast food, worry not: in addition to the restaurants listed here, Guadalajara has plenty of American fast-food franchises. ===Budget=== Birria, tortas ahogadas, and chilaquiles are some of the most traditional Tapatío dishes. In the Centro and Americana district you find several low priced restaurants and eateries. In the Centro area you can find many Chinese buffet restaurants offering inexpensive, quick meals. ====Centro Histórico==== {{marker | type=eat | name= Mercado Libertad| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6755436| long= -103.3401238| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | content=}} – The food court is a good place to sample the variety of local specialties. You can go eat here multiple times, as there is a big variety of cooked meals. You can also find Chinese and Japanese dishes. The majority of the food stalls has price tags. Most vendors let you walk through the food court without disturbing you. The prices are low. It's open daily from 8:00-20:00. * '''Birria''' is a savory stew made of roast chiles, spices and traditionally goat meat, though you will usually be given other meat options like mutton or beef depending on the restaurant. For birria, the restaurants in the Nueve Esquinas area (a few blocks south of Templo San Francisco) are popular and reliably good. * '''Tortas ahogadas''' (literally "drowned sandwiches") are elongated sandwiches on ''birote'' bread, akin to submarines or po' boys, smothered in a savory chile and tomato sauce. Numerous restaurants in the Centro Histórico specialize in these. * '''Pozole''' is a hearty soup of pork and hominy topped with fresh cabbage, radish, onion and cilantro. There are some very good pozole stands in the food court of the Mercado Libertad. * '''Mollete'''. Popular for breakfast among locals, this is a French-style roll split and covered with refried beans, then topped with ham or chorizo and cheese and toasted. * '''Tamales''' consist of pockets of ''masa'' (a starchy dough of corn flour) filled with ''mole'' (a sauce or gravy made from any of an infinite combination of chili peppers, spices, and chocolate) and the choice of chicken or pork. Most people make tamales for holidays such as Christmas, the [[Day of the Dead|Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)]], Independence Day, or New Year's Day. * '''Enchiladas''' are a corn or flour tortilla rolled around and filled with meat, cheese, vegetables and/or potatoes and covered with spicy chile sauce, dressed variously in sour cream and/or cheese. ====Colonia Americana==== * {{eat | name=El Vegano Urbano | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Juan Cumplido 14, Col Americana | lat=20.676445 | long=-103.358445 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 19:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2024-09-24 | content=It looks and tastes like actual meat, but it's vegan. Served are delicious tacos for M$15, gringas, hamburgers and more. Tasty sauces that you can add by yourself. }} * {{eat | name= Taquería Reforma | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Escorza 50, Col Americana | lat= 20.6757604| long=-103.3586169| directions= | phone=+52 33 1201 9369 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 11:00 - 22:00 | price= | wikipedia= | image= | lastedit=2024-09-24 | content= It's a simple traditional eatery. The meat is fried right which means it's without burnt black meat. They serve daily 10:30-22:30. You get very good tasting taco bistek or pastor (M$11), taco size quesadilla (M$11), sopes (M$20), or hamburguesa (M$30). }} * {{eat | name=Taco's Pepes | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.673767 | long=-103.370283 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-F 07:30-16:00, Sa 07:30-15:00 | price=Tacos for M$12-14, Gringas vampiros for M$25 | lastedit=2021-11-01 | content=They have a big variety of tasty meat and sauces. }} ====In multiple locations==== * {{eat | name= Sticks Pedro Moreno| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6752899| long= -103.3700324| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= In the Americana neighborhood. In the west of the Zona Centro is the {{marker | type=eat | name= Sticks Parque Rojo| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6743714| long= -103.3565024}} and there is the {{marker | type=eat | name= Sticks Centro Histórico| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6807290| long= -103.3460733}} You get tasty:{{ili|Japanese fried rice yakimeshi with chicken or beef for M$25-46}}{{ili|a rather small portion of pasta for M$39-43}}{{ili|a stick with cheese and salami, plantain, ham, shrimps or surimi for M$16-18}}{{ili|a sushi roll for M$39-57.}}}} ===Mid-range=== ====Centro Histórico==== * {{eat | name=Birrería Las Nueve Esquinas | url=http://www.las9esquinas.com | email= | address=Cristóbal Colón 384, Zona Centro | lat=20.67067 | long=-103.34847 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 6260 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:00-22:00, Su 09:00-19:30 | price= | content=Well known for its lamb birria, a specialty of Jalisco, this popular place is in an old part of the Centro Histórico called "Las Nueve Esquinas" (Nine Corners), for its unusual street layout. }} * {{eat | name=La Chata | url=http://www.lachata.com.mx | email= | address=Corona 126, Zona Centro | lat=20.67469 | long=-103.34665 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 1315 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:30-00:00 | price= | content=Very popular and very crowded. Traditional food the way mom used to make it, or so they say. The prices are higher here than in other places serving the same fare—but still pretty reasonable. }} ====West of the Centro Histórico==== * {{eat | name=Chop | alt= | url=http://chai.com.mx/ | email= | address=México 2328, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.67946 | long=-103.37558 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 3557 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-Th 08:00-00:00, F Sa 08:00-01:00 | price= | content=Lovely deli midway between Chapultepec and Minerva and owned by a local chain of coffeehouses. Salads, sandwiches and wraps, paninis, calzone and pizza are on the menu, as well as a large selection of breakfasts served daily. Kids' menu. }} * {{eat | name=Kamilos 333 | url=http://www.kamilos333.com | email= | address=José Clemente Orozco 333, Santa Teresita | lat=20.68151 | long=-103.36633 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 7869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 08:00-01:00 | price= | content=Unpretentious, traditional Mexican fare reigns supreme here—Kamilos' menu goes heavy on meat dishes, which are juicy and delicious. Breakfast served daily. Those who don't speak Spanish well may have trouble with the (intentionally) misspelled words on the menu—"camarones" becomes "kamaronez", "quesadilla" is rendered "kezadya", etc. }} * {{eat | name=Tacos Providencia | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/TacosProvidencia/ | email= | address=Rubén Darío 534, Lomas de Guevara | lat=20.68529 | long=-103.38500 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3641 6049 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The tacos this place serves up—particularly the tacos al pastor, the specialty here—have been described as the best in Guadalajara. Quesadillas are also served. }} ====Colonia Americana==== * {{eat | name=Goa... Un Sabor de la India | alt= | url=http://www.goa.com.mx/ | email= | address=López Cotilla 1520, Americana | lat=20.67396 | long=-103.36985 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3615 6173 | tollfree= | hours=M 16:00-22:00, Tu-Sa 13:00-00:00, Su 13:00-19:00 | price= | content=A restaurant specializing in North Indian cuisine served in a lovely and exotic environment. }} ====Tlaquepaque==== * {{eat | name=El Parián | alt= | url=http://business.google.com/website/el-parian/ | email= | address=Corner of Calles Juárez and Progreso, Tlaquepaque Centro | lat=20.63883 | long=-103.31104 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This central square of Tlaquepaque's historic downtown boasts several restaurants with a bandstand in the center. It's a nice place to sit and have a drink or enjoy a meal, with numerous mariachis who will play for you for a small fee and also public performances that begin at 21:30. Gourmets will appreciate the recommendation of El Parian in the 2024 Michelin Guide. }} * {{eat | name=TlaquePasta | url=http://www.quintadonjose.com/tlaquepasta | email= | address=Reforma 139, Tlaquepaque Centro | lat=20.63743 | long=-103.31225 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635 7522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 17:00-22:00, F-Su 14:00-22:00 | price= | content=It's in the '''Quinta Don José Boutique Hotel''', and offers a nice mix of cuisines, with traditional Tapatío dishes rubbing shoulders on the menu with the only Italian specialties available in Tlaquepaque. Great tasting food, attractive setting, and reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=Real San Pedro | url=http://realsanpedro.mx/ | address=Calle Independencia 163, Tlaquepaque Centro | lat=20.639430105392574 | long=-103.31299019533435 | phone=+52 333 659 3631 | hours=Daily 08:00 - 22:00 | price=M$200 | content=Elegant dining room in an historic casona. Food is traditional regional cuisine with moles, enchiladas and more. Extensive tequila list and wine list, as well as mezcals, including some raicillas (a type of mezcal endemic to Jalisco). }} === Splurge === ====Colonia Americana==== * {{eat | name=El Sacromonte | url=http://www.sacromonte.com.mx | email= | address=Pedro Moreno 1398, Americana | lat=20.67574 | long=-103.36609 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 5447 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 13:30-00:00, Su 13:30-18:00 | price= | content= The food here is traditional Mexican served a little more artfully for a more well-off clientele. Subdued, violin-centered mariachis play here in the early afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Suehiro | url=http://www.suehiro.com.mx | email= | address=La Paz 1701, Americana | lat=20.67093 | long=-103.36298 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3826 0094 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 13:30-17:30 and 19:30-23:30, Su 13:00-19:00 | price= | content=Laid-back Japanese restaurant whose gargantuan menu encompasses excellently prepared cuisine in the teppanyaki, nabemono, and tempura cooking styles, as well as a huge selection of sushi and sashimi. Quality and service are beyond compare. Outside is a beautifully landscaped garden complete with koi pond. }} * {{eat | name=Bruna | url= | address=Calle Miguel Lerdo de Tejada 2418 | lat=20.671143629267135 | long=-103.3779290599571 | phone=+52 332 003 0904 | hours=Daily 14:00 - 00:00 | price=M$300 | lastedit=2025-01-28 | content=Contemporary upscale restaurant serving nouveau Mexican cuisine in an elegant dining room overlooking a [[Sculpture|sculpture garden]] that is part of the art gallery housed in the same building. Reservations suggested as this is one of the city's top restaurants. }} * {{eat | name=Santo Coyote | url=https://www.santocoyote.com.mx/ | address= | lat=20.67079229416486 | long=-103.37704929547432 | phone=+52 333 343 2265 | hours=Daily 08:00 - 00:00 | price=M$350 | lastedit=2025-01-28 | content=Elaborate upscale restaurant that re-creates a jungle atmosphere with multiple small dining rooms. The menu is nouveau Mexican with frequent forays into traditionally local flavors of pre-Hispanic cultures. Almost every dish has something wonderfully flavorful but often unknown to foreign tourists, like epazote or huitlacoche. Drinks are equally innovative and most are based on local tequilas or mezcals. Listed in the 2024 Michelin Guide. }} * {{eat | name=Casa Bariachi | alt= | url=http://www.casa-bariachi.com/ | email= | address=Av. Ignacio Vallarta 2221 | lat=20.674601987790936 | long=-103.37829016148969 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3616 9900 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 13:00 - 03:00 | price=M$500 | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=Upscale restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine including grilled meats and regional specialties. Elegant dining room with live music provided by roving mariachis. }} ====West of Centro==== * {{eat | name=Il Duomo | url= | email= | address=de las Américas 302, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.68260 | long=-103.37331 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3615 4952 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 13:30-00:00 | price= | content=Creative Italian cuisine at reasonable prices including pastas, meat dishes and fine wines, served by polite and attentive (but not over-attentive) waitstaff. }} ====Zapopan==== * {{eat | name=Almacén del Bife | url=https://www.almacendelbife.com/ | email= | address=Plaza Andares 4965, Puerta de Hierro, Zapopan | lat=20.71014 | long=-103.41254 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3611 2668 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 13:00-00:00 | price=M$120-800 | content="Beer and wine, our passion" (in translation) is the motto of this Argentinian restaurant in Plaza Andares. In addition, a wide selection of chicken dishes, pastas and a daily seafood special are offered. }} * {{eat | name=Fonda Doña Gabina Escolástica | url= | address=Javier Mina 237, Centro, Zapopan | lat=20.7201585184255 | long=-103.38938190391251 | phone=+52 333 833 0883 | hours=Daily 14:00 - 22:30 | price=M$200 | lastedit=2024-12-24 | content=Traditional regional Mexican restaurant. Recommended by the Michelin Guide whose editors particularly recommend the tostada de pata. Other house specialties include pozole and enchiladas. Large portions, affordable prices. }} ==Drink== Guadalajara has a vibrant nightlife that's spread out all over the city, from the touristy places in the Centro Histórico ('''Plaza de la Liberación''' is a good place to start your search) to the college bars in Zapopan. However, the most active bar district in Guadalajara is in '''Colonia Americana''' centered along '''Avenida Chapultepec''' between Hidalgo and Niños Héroes, about 2 km west of the Centro Histórico. This is the place where GDL's hipster crowd makes the scene, with bar after bar lining the sides of the streets. Many of these places double as popular live music venues. A good suggestion is to search out a bar with a large collection of tequilas and taste a great blanca, reposada and añejo. If you ask for a traditional tequila from Los Altos, you will almost certainly get something good. Los Altos is the region northeast of Guadalajara where the best tequila in the world is made, bringing up images of tradition, patriotism and individualism. ===Centro Histórico=== * {{drink | name=Los Famosos Equipales | url= | email= | address=Juan Álvarez 704, Zona Centro | lat=20.684543 | long=-103.352330 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614 1500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 10:00-00:00, F Sa 22:00-02:30 | price= | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=One of its famous drinks here is named "Las Nalgas Alegres" (Happy Buttocks), which is a delicious pink-colored but deceptively strong concoction. A jukebox plays music constantly, and snacks are available too. }} ===Colonia Americana=== *{{drink | name=El Primer Piso | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Primer-Piso-Bar-120550884698378/ | email= | address=Pedro Moreno 947, Americana | lat=20.675488 | long=-103.358393 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 7085 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 19:30-01:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=A lively and fun jazz bar with good music, good food and a red upholstered ceiling are trademarks. }} *{{drink | name=Cerveceria Loba | url=http://www.cervezaloba.com/ | address=C. Gregorio Dávila 76, Col Americana | lat=20.67807888378071 | long=-103.36119656775809 | phone=+52 332 035 6401 | hours=M-Sa 14:00 - 01:00, closed Su | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Taproom and craft brewery producing several styles of both ales and lagers with stouts, IPAs, goses, and more. }} * {{drink | name=Bar Américas | url=http://baramericas.com.mx/ | address=Av. Chapultepec Sur 507, Col Americana | lat=20.668393366451735 | long=-103.36828002913566 | phone=+52 333 060 3773 | hours=Th-M 12:00 - 07:00, W 20:00 - 00:00 | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Popular techno nightclub that doesn't really get rolling until after 2am. Young, trendy crowd. }} * {{drink | name=Salón del Bosque | alt= | url=http://saloondelbosque.com/ | email= | address=José Guadalupe Zuno 2200, Col. Americana | lat=20.67076 | long=-103.37232 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3616 4297 | tollfree= | hours=M Tu Sa 13:00-23:00, W-F 13:00-01:00 | price= | content=Upscale, laid-back atmosphere featuring live jazz and bossa nova. }} * {{drink | name=Hudson Bar | url= | address=C. Miguel Lerdo de Tejada 2055, Col Americana | lat=20.671295374770683 | long=-103.36987383693541 | phone=+523336152054 | hours=Tu-Th 13:00 - 01:00, F-Sa 13:00 - 02:30, closed Su | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Cool, old-school style bar with live music and a rooftop bar. }} * {{drink | name=Urban Live | url=http://www.theurbanlive.com/ | address=Esq. con Libertad, Av. Chapultepec Sur 177-2do piso, Col Americana | lat=20.673503746071777 | long=-103.3682215961734 | phone=+52 331 328 8482 | hours=F-Sa 20:30 - 03:00, closed Su-Th | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Lively club playing with live bands playing rock in both English and Spanish. }} ===Chapultepec, Zona Rosa and Minerva=== * {{drink | name=Barba Negra | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Barbanegra1988/ | email= | address=Justo Sierra 2194-A, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.67782 | long=-103.37233 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3808 8650 | tollfree= | hours=W Th 13:00-02:00, F 13:00-03:00, Sa 19:30-03:00 | price= | content=Features live rock music. }} * {{drink | name=Grand Fiesta Americana Guadalajara Country Club | alt= | url=https://www.grandfiestamericana.com/grand-fiesta-americana-guadalajara-country-club | email= | address=Av. de las Américas 1551, Providencia | lat=20.70293 | long=-103.37655 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3648 3535 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-12-01 | content=Try the rooftop bar here if you feel like something unique. }} ===Zapopan=== * {{drink | name=Mayas Bar | alt= | url=https://mayas-bar.business.site/ | email= | address=Prol. 20 De Noviembre 351, Zapopan | lat=20.72016 | long=-103.38803 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3633 4684 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10ː00-01ː00, Sa Su 10ː00-03ː00 | price= | content=This laid-back place in downtown Zapopan features food, drink and occasional live music. }} ==Sleep== If you plan to spend much time downtown, don't get a hotel farther away—it's much more convenient to be within walking distance of your daytime activities. ===Budget === There are many inexpensive hotels available in the city center, especially around the old bus station ''(Central Vieja / Antigua)''. ====in the Centro Histórico and around:==== *{{sleep | name=Hostel Hospedarte Guadalajara Centro | url=http://www.hostelguadalajara.com | email= | address=Maestranza 147, Zona Centro | lat=20.67447 | long=-103.34557 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3562 7520 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content=This youth hostel is in a stately National Heritage building from the 19th century. Reading room, common area with TV, free wireless Internet. Organized tours to [[Tequila]] leave regularly from the hostel, including two distilleries. }} ====in Colonia Americana:==== * {{sleep | name=Hostal Casa Colores | alt= | url=https://casacoloreshostal.mxhotel.site/en/ | email= | address=Calle Efraín González Luna 1844, Col Americana | lat=20.66995 | long=-103.36537 | directions= | phone=+52 33 2688 8523 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$300 | lastedit=2025-02-05 | content=Has sun deck, garden, movie nights, shared kitchen, walking tours, bar crawls, a library, and wifi. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostel Hospedarte Chapultepec | alt= | url=http://hospedartehostels.com/ | email= | address=Calle Efraín González Luna 2075, Col Americana | lat=20.66969 | long=-103.37026 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3615 4957 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$340 | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-05 | content=The counterpart to the downtown Hostel Hospedarte; if you stay at this one, you'll be close to the Chapultepec venues. This hostel includes a free breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Bohostel | url=http://www.bohostel.mx/ | address=Calle Efraín González Luna 2097, Col Americana | lat=20.670188145321415 | long=-103.37019301230436 | phone=+52 33 2832 2469 | checkin=14:00 | checkout=11:00 | price=M$400 | lastedit=2025-02-01 | content=Clean, comfortable rooms in a friendly atmosphere. Rooftop lounge area and a cafe on the ground floor. Has private rooms but bathrooms are shared. Mature clientele. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Irake | url=https://www.casairake.com/ | address=Calle Francisco I. Madero 1038, Col Americana | lat=20.673962460611225 | long=-103.36195326629003 | phone=+52 33 1902 1140 | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$700 | lastedit=2025-02-01 | content=Attractively decorated home with comfortable private rooms as well as beds in a dorm with shared bath. Common areas include a rooftop terrace. }} ====around the Old Bus Station (Antigua) south of the Centro Histórico:==== The stated prices here are as of December 2021 for two persons per night and only when reserved directly at the hotel. All listed hotel rooms are with private bathroom, hot water and without A/C. Be mindful of security as this neighborhood is sketchy at the best of times. * {{sleep | name=Hotel Costa Brava| url= | email= | address= Calz Independencia Sur 739| lat= 20.6642820 | long= -103.3475740 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$320 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Flamingos| url= | email= | address= Calz Independencia Sur 725| lat= 20.6644787| long= -103.3474278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$350 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Canada| url= | email= | address= Av. Miguel Alemán 911| lat=20.6630476 | long= -103.3464129| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$320 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Susy| url= | email= | address= C. Analco 791, Las Conchas| lat=20.6613582 | long= -103.3426719| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$250 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Hotel Royal| url= | email= | address=C. Los Ángeles 115-B| lat= 20.6634199| long=-103.3455653| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$275 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Union| url= | email= | address=Av. Dr. Roberto Michel 218| lat= 20.6631966| long= -103.3458671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$270 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} ===Mid-Range=== ====in the Centro Histórico and around:==== * {{sleep | name=Real Maestranza Hotel | alt= | url=https://realmaestranzahotel.com/index.html | email= | address=Calle Francisco I. Madero 161 | lat=20.67357 | long=-103.34564 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 6101 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=around M$1,000 | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-12-02 | content=A boutique hotel with some old world charm such as interior murals and arches. It has a breakfast buffet and restaurant and bar. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel de Mendoza | url=http://www.demendoza.com.mx | email= | address=Venustiano Carranza 16, Zona Centro | lat=20.67796 | long=-103.34434 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3942 5151 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=around M$1,000 (Dec 2021) | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | content=At the Hotel de Mendoza, guests can stay in a peaceful, airy ambience within walking distance of all Centro Histórico destinations. Rooms (including suites) include free WiFi, 32-inch flat screen TVs, and charming colonial decor; the hotel also has a business center, gym, restaurant and outdoor pool. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel San Francisco Plaza | url=http://www.sanfranciscohotel.com.mx | email= | address=Degollado 267, Zona Centro | lat=20.67264 | long=-103.34526 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 3256 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=around M$900(Dec 2021) | checkin=12:00 | checkout=14:00 | content= In operation since 1986, this colonial-style hotel is a few blocks from the storied Teatro Degollado and is centered on two covered courtyards. There are some awful rooms, so it's worth talking to the person you reserve with to see what it will cost to get a room on one of the courtyards, on an upper floor, and away from the north side of the building where there is quite a bit of traffic. Merced is a good guy to talk with about this or anything else. Although he denies being "el jefe", he seems to be in charge. Air conditioning, full baths, free WiFi. Suites available. Personal laundry available for a small fee. Breakfasts at the hotel restaurant ("Don Quijote") are very good. Beatriz, the usual morning waitress, is a bundle of sunshine. }} ====in Minerva, Chapultepec, Zapopan and west of the Centro Histórico:==== * {{sleep | name=Fiesta Americana | alt= | url=https://www.fiestamericana.com/en/hotels-resorts/fiesta-americana-guadalajara | email= | address=Av, Calle Aurelio Aceves No. 225, Vallarta Poniente | lat=20.67361 | long=-103.38916 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3818 1400 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | price= | content=The Fiesta Americana is in a quiet yet hip residential area in the shadow of the Glorieta de la Minerva monument. Its lively nightclub attracts its share of hip young locals. It's a business hotel, minutes from the World Trade Center Guadalajara and has the city's second-largest convention center. Each room has a coffeemaker, minibar, and cable television, with deluxe rooms also have individual sofas with footrests and phones. Business center and room service operate 24 hours a day. The hotel offers a fitness center, laundry, dry cleaning and ironing service, gift shop, currency exchange, concierge, restaurant, airport shuttle.. There's free high-speed wireless Internet all over the property. Parking comes with complimentary valet service. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel NH Guadalajara | url=http://www.nh-hotels.com/nh/en/hotels/mexico/guadalajara/nh-guadalajara.html | email= | address=Sao Paulo 2334, Providencia | lat=20.70173 | long=-103.37709 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3648 9500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$1083/night | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | content=A luxury business hotel next to Country Club Guadalajara in the heart of one of the city's financial districts, this high-rise hotel has 137 guest rooms with contemporary decor, amenities, and, in many cases, views over the city. Free WiFi, fitness center, restaurant ("Nhube") and garden bar, conference center, concierge services and complimentary shoeshine. Suites available. }} * {{sleep | name=IbeuroHotel | alt= | url=http://www.ibeurohotel.com.mx | email= | address=Mariano Otero 3235, Fraccionamiento Valle Verde | lat=20.65376 | long=-103.39316 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3134 3230 | tollfree= | checkin=13:00 | checkout=12:30 | price=around M$700 (Dec 2021) | content=Decent prices here, but you get what you pay for. For a large business hotel—one directly next to the Expo Guadalajara convention center, no less—this place skimps on the amenities. Still, the rooms are clean and all the basics are covered: color television, air conditioning, telephone, free wireless Internet, laundry and dry cleaning. Adequate if unimpressive food is served in the cafeteria. Private covered parking lot. }} * {{sleep | name=La Mansión del Sol | url=http://www.lamansiondelsol.com/ | email= | address=Moctezuma 1596, Ciudad del Sol, Zapopan | lat=20.65110 | long=-103.40840 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3647 4762 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=around M$1,000 (Dec 2021) | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | content="Modern yet unmistakably Mexican" is a good way to describe the decor of this luxury boutique hotel in Zapopan. Manicured exterior with sitting areas, a fountain, palm trees and ubiquitous hummingbirds surround this lovely property whose airy rooms boast all the modern amenities: 32" LCD flat-screen TV's, CD stereo system, alarm clock, hair dryer, workspace, free wireless Internet, ironing board, and dessert minibars. Other amenities include an on-site bar and restaurant ("Los Colibríes"), laundry and dry-cleaning service, sauna and steam room, business center, gym, complimentary continental breakfast, and room service. }} * {{sleep | name=Del Marqués Hotel and Suites | alt= | url=http://delmarques.com/ | email= | address=Victoriano Salado Álvarez 72, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.6772 | long=-103.38117 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 3048 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=around M$700 (Dec 2021) | content=An all-suite property near the charming Minerva district. The living areas, kitchenettes, and work areas all have modern decor and amenities such as air conditioning and free WiFi. Some suites also have full kitchens. There's also a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Villa Ganz | url=http://en.villaganz.com | email= | address=Calle Manuel López Cotilla 1739, Col Americana | lat=20.67355| long=-103.37223 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3120 1416 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$1062/night | checkin= | checkout= | content=In the heart of the Zona Rosa. A 1930s mansion-turned-boutique hotel. Villa Ganz's ten suites are named after Jalisciense author Juan Rolfo's literary creations. Amenities include air conditioning, cable TV, hair dryers, and free WiFi, antique furnishings and decor, custom-designed toiletries, designer bathrobes and slippers, bedding and duvets containing imported goose, bookcases containing a wide-ranging selection of literature, and elegant French doors looking out either onto the peaceful garden or lively Avenida López Cotilla. A concierge is on staff. Guests at Villa Ganz also receive complimentary access to the Kristal Century gym, one block away from the hotel—this includes yoga, Pilates, and dance classes. Complimentary breakfast is served, as well as wine and appetizers in the evening. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Velvet Plaza | alt= | url=http://hotelvelvetplaza.com/ | email= | address=Av. Ignacio L. Vallarta 2477, Arcos Vallarta | lat=20.67427 | long=-103.38209 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3882 4500 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=M$842 | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-01 | content=Rooftop pool for relaxing and city views and a restaurant that serves breakfast are some of the perks at this mid-city hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Venezuela | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Venezuela 459, Col Americana | lat=20.66989 | long=-103.36301 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3826 6590 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | content=This charming B&B a few blocks off hip Avenida Chapultepec has three rooms decorated in Old Mexico style. Guest rooms have hair dryers, and TVs with DVD player. The breakfast offers American and Mexican specialties served on locally-produced crockery. Complimentary cocktails are served on the terrace each evening. The American-born owner, George, has an encyclopedic knowledge about everything Guadalajara and the surrounding vicinity have to offer. }} ====in Tlaquepaque and east of the Centro Histórico:==== *{{sleep | name=Hotel La Calandria | alt= | url=http://www.lascalandrias.com.mx/ | email= | address=Estadio 100, Las Conchas | lat=20.66270 | long=-103.34597 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3619 6579 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=What this hotel lacks in luxury, it more than makes up for in old-Mexico charm. A very clean and generally very nice property for very reasonable prices. Bilingual staff, WiFi available in public areas. It's a short distance south of the Centro Histórico, near Parque Agua Azul and the old bus station, where buses leave regularly for popular regional destinations such as Cocula and Tequila. On-street parking, but there are many free parking lots available (including Walmart, which is also nearby). }} * {{sleep | name=Quinta Don José | url=http://www.quintadonjose.com | email= | address=Reforma 139, Tlaquepaque Centro, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.63745 | long=-103.31222 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635 7522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | content=Charming 19-room boutique hotel in the heart of Old Tlaquepaque. Amenities include high-speed WiFi, cable TV, air conditioning, complimentary continental breakfast (a full breakfast featuring traditional Mexican favorites is also available for an extra fee), an onsite tequila bar and restaurant ('''TlaquePasta'''). Landscaped exterior, tiled pool, manicured gardens, and a leafy terrace. Airy, sun-drenched rooms decorated with Old Mexican traditionalism and contemporary simplicity. The hotel organizes group tours of the artisan workshops that have made Tlaquepaque famous, and excursions to the Laguna de Chapala, Guachimontones, Tequila, and downtown Guadalajara (20 minutes away by car). }} ===Splurge=== ==Stay safe== Guadalajara is known as one of the safest cities in Mexico. Nonetheless, as in any large city, the usual precautions should be taken. Crimes against tourists and foreign students are quite infrequent and mostly take the form of purse-snatching. Criminals usually work in teams and target travelers in outdoor restaurants, bars and other busy places. Should anyone spill something on you, be alert to your surroundings and step away—accidental spills are a common method of distracting their marks. ''Never'' carry illegal substances with you; Mexican police are very strict regarding these cases. '''In case of emergency, dial 911''', the number for all emergencies (fire, police and medical) in Mexico. English-speaking operators are not guaranteed, but are often available. In an emergency, it's also a good idea to contact your embassy or consulate. For non-emergencies, dial 078 to reach the [[Driving in Mexico#Green Angels|Green Angels]], an English-speaking [[Automobile associations|roadside and travel assistance program]]. ===Drug cartels=== Like most of Mexico's Pacific coast states, regional drug cartels are known to operate in [[Jalisco]]. These cartels have strong incentives to keep money flowing at popular places, which requires peace and safety for visitors. In February 2026, a security operation against a Jalisco drug cartel sparked clashes throughout the region, including in tourist areas that have largely avoided attacks in the past. Vehicles and stores were looted, stolen and set on fire. From a traveler's perspective, this turned out to be more of a violent demonstration than a deadly attack, as there were no deaths reported other than security forces and suspected cartel members. Nonetheless, flights were cancelled and tourists were advised to shelter in place until the situation settled down over the next few days. Drug cartels commonly use arson to create chaos, especially by creating roadblocks that slow security response and grind a city to a halt. Keep your supply of treated drinking water topped off and keep around things to snack on, in case shops close or you're stuck in your hotel due to any number of possible natural or man-made disasters. ===Football=== Due to the intense rivalry between local club Chivas and [[Mexico City]]-based Club América, you should avoid wearing Club América jerseys in Guadalajara unless you want to risk getting singled out for harassment or worse by local fans. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== Most consulates are honorary which means they offer limited services to travelers and their nationals living in the area and usually available by appointment or in emergencies only. The nearest city for additional foreign consulates is in [[Mexico City#Embassies|Mexico City]]: * {{flag|Canada}} {{listing | name=Canada | alt= | url=https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/mexico-mexique/guadalajara.aspx?lang=eng| email= | address=World Trade Center, Av. Mariano Otero 1249, Torre Pacifico Piso 8, Col. Rinconada del Bosque, C.P. 44530 Guadalajara| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +52 33 1818-4200 | fax= +52 33 1818-4210 | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-24 | content=Call collect +1 613 996 8885 for emergencies only. }} * {{flag|Colombia}} {{listing | name=Colombia | alt= | url=https://guadalajara.consulado.gov.co/ | email= | address=Ave Acueducto 4851, Piso 10, Interior 2 y 4, Edificio Corporativo Acueducto | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 4737-5700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-25 | content=+52 33 1990-4857 for emergencies only. }} * {{flag|El Salvador}} {{listing | name=El Salvador| alt= | url=https://rree.gob.sv/servicios-consulares/| email= | address=Galeria Exhimoda Av. Ignacio L. Vallarta 3233, local 12-F, C.P. 44110 Guadalajara | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3685-9415 | tollfree=800-747-6117 | hours=M-F 09:00-17:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-24 | content=Click this [https://portalcitas.rree.gob.sv/ link] to make an online appointment }} * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany (Honorary) | alt= | url=https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/about-us/auslandsvertretungen/740206-740206 | email= | address=Calle 7 No. 319, Colonia Ferrocarril, C.P. 44440 Guadalajara. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3810-2146| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-25 | content= }} * {{flag|Guatemala}} {{listing | name=Guatemala | alt= | url=https://www.minex.gob.gt/din/2953-consulado-honorario-de-guatemala-en-guadalajara | email=cruza@prodigy.net.mx. | address=Mango 1440-A, Colonia del Fresno, C.P. 44500, Guadalajara | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3811 1503 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 09:00-14:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-24 | content=Look them on [https://www.facebook.com/EmbaGuateMexico/ Facebook] }} * {{flag|Netherlands}} {{listing | name=Netherlands (Honorary) | alt= | url=https://www.netherlandsandyou.nl/web/mexico-en/about-us/honorary-consul-guadalajara | email= | address=Calle Ottawa 1360, Col Providencia, C.P. 44630 Guadalajara | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 4545-8115 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-25 | content= }} * {{flag|Spain}} {{listing | name=Spain | url=https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Consulados/guadalajara/ | email= | address=Avenida Pablo Neruda No. 2710, 5 piso, Edificio ALTUS. Colonia Providencia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 0450 | tollfree= | fax=+52 33 3616 0396 | hours=M-F 09ː00 - 13ː00, closed Sa-Su | price= | content=The consulate provides a range of services to Spanish citizens traveling or living in Mexico, including birth certificates, travel documents, and official government records. Visa or permit services are also available to Mexicans and other foreigners traveling to or doing business in Spain. Persons with other official business can contact the embassy in [[Mexico City]].) }} * {{flag|Romania}} {{listing | name=Romania (Honorary) | url=https://mae.ro/romanian-missions/3395#861 | email=consulrumania@grupocube.com | address=Torre Cube, Blvd. Puerta de Hierro 5210 Piso 12 –C, Colonia Puerta de Hierro, Zapopan | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 334 35 100, + 52 33 334 35 200 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Honorary Consulate (Does not provide consular services. Instead, Romanian citizens in need of assistance should contact the embassy in [[Mexico City]].) }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States | url=https://mx.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/guadalajara/ | email=usconsulategdl@megared.net.mx; acsgdl@state.gov | address=Progreso 175, Americana | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3268 2100 | tollfree= | fax=+52 33 3826 6549 | hours=M-Th 09:00-13:00 | price= | content= }} == Go next == Your next destination for staying can be...: ===To the east=== *'''[[Guanajuato]]''' – 275 km. A beautiful mountain colonial town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A variety of mines are there to be visited. In the evening you can join traditionally dressed Mexicans singing and walking through the old-town. *'''[[San Miguel de Allende]]''' – 340 km. A city known for relaxing. There are thermal pools just outside the city. The old town is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. *'''[[Querétaro]]''' – 360 km. Capital of the state Quéretaro. A big aqueduct goes through the city. You can taste a Gordita Queretana. The old town is – you guess it – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ===To the north-east=== *'''[[San Juan de los Lagos]]''' – 145 km. The second-most visited pilgrimage site in Mexico (after the Basílica de Guadalupe in Mexico City). *'''[[San Luis Potosí]]''' – 330 km. The capital of the state of San Luis Potosí. The historic center displays a great mixture of different artistic styles and is a major example of colonial architecture in Mexico. The historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ===To the west=== *'''[[Puerto Vallarta]]''' – 330 km. Nearby are the coastal villages [[Bucerias]], [[Sayulita]] and [[San Francisco (Mexico)]] ===To the north-west=== *'''[[Tepic]]''' – 205 km. The capital of Nayarit *'''[[Mazatlan]]''' – It's recommended to take a flight into and out of the city. ===By air=== Guadalajara has low-cost flights for example to: *'''[[Cabo San Lucas]]''' and '''[[La Paz (Mexico)|La Paz]]''' on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. * '''[[Oaxaca (city)|Oaxaca]]''' * '''[[Tuxtla Gutiérrez|Tuxtla]]''' in Chiapas * '''[[Puerto Vallarta]]''' and '''[[Puerto Escondido]]''' at the Pacific coast * '''[[Cancún]]''' and '''[[Mérida (Mexico)|Mérida]]''' on the Yucatan peninsula * '''[[Mexico City]]''' {{routebox | image1=Carretera federal 15.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Tepic]] | minorl1=[[Tequila]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Zamora de Hidalgo]] | minorr1=[[San Luis Soyatlán]] }} {{isPartOf|Jalisco}} {{guidecity}} {{geo|20.666667|-103.35}} ipxm7lxy9xy5scmiwgucu2p8tcnc0cu 5288895 5288892 2026-06-06T16:19:48Z Mrkstvns 144844 Added listing for Quinta Real Guadalajara 5288895 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Guadalajara banner.jpg|dotm=yes|unesco_whs=yes|unesco_ich=yes}} [[File:Guadalajara´s Cathedral, Jalisco, Mexico.jpg|thumb|275px|Guadalajara Cathedral viewed from north side of Plaza de Guadalajara]] '''Guadalajara''' is the capital of the central state of [[Jalisco]] in [[Mexico]], and the second-largest city in the country, with about a million and a half citizens (known as "Tapatíos"). It is considered a colonial city, though much of its architecture dates from the independence period. Although it has a far more relaxed feel than [[Mexico City]], the city center can still seem a bit stuffy and dusty, especially during rush hour when the sun is out. All in all, however, it is a lovely city and contains many nice areas for walking, not just in the center. === Welcome World Cup fans === Guadalajara is one of the 16 North American cities that will host soccer matches for the [[2026 FIFA World Cup]]. Games scheduled for Guadalajara will be played in '''Estadio Akron''' in the northern suburb of '''Zapopan'''. Here are a few tips for football fansː * Akron Stadium is 31 km from Guadalajara International Airport, an airport taxi will take 40-60 minutes to get to Zapopan, depending on traffic * the '''closest hotels''' are in Zapopan, and although Google Maps shows some within 0.5 km of the stadium, they are actually a 4 km walk (or drive) because there is no direct road between the hotels and the stadium. These will still be the most conveniently located hotels for fans with game tickets. Close hotels include '''SR Hotel''', '''One Guadalajara Periférico Poniente''', and '''Holiday Inn Express Guadalajara Vallarte Poniente'''. * the '''best way to get to the stadium''' will probably be '''Uber''' because there are several busy streets and a complex major highway interchange near the stadium that make the area unfriendly to pedestrians. Plan to get dropped off or picked up away from the stadium as there will be no designated drop off and pickup zone. Public transit is an excellent optionː use the MiMacro bus-rapid-transit (BRT), Line 7 to '''Estadio Chivas'''. The station is about a 1.5 km walk to the stadium. If you plan to drive, the city has set up 10 designated satellite parking areas with shuttle buses to the stadium. These parking lots require pre-registration, cost M$500 (US$25). Registration and info is [https://boletomovil.com/guadalajara-fwc-2026 on the web page]. * the '''best neighborhood''' for upscale '''restaurants''' and fun '''nightclubs''' is Americano. There are also several good hotels in this highly walkable neighborhood * the city has an extensive '''public transit''' system that is cheap and reliable. It consists of a subway/light rail system called ''MiTren'', a bus-rapid transit system (BRT) called ''MiMacro'' and buses called ''MiBus'' serving local neighborhoods. You can get to most parts of the city with these services, though '''Uber''' is always a convenient and safe option for getting around ==Understand== {{climate chart |Guadalajara |10.6 |24.1 |16.3 |11.9 |26.2 |11.0 |13.5 |28.5 |8.3 |15.6 |30.5 |3.8 |17.2 |31.9 |26.3 |17.2 |30.1 |183.8 |16.2 |27.4 |271.3 |16.3 |27.2 |220.5 |16.4 |26.7 |193.7 |15.3 |26.7 |58.8 |12.9 |25.6 |12.3 |11.1 |24.3 |7.4 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Guadalajara]] |description= }} Guadalajara is Mexico's second largest city, and one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the country. This growth has been driven in part by the booming electronics industry in the industrial outskirts of the city. Other important and growing industries are pharmaceuticals, food processing, and fashion. ===Orientation=== [[Image:MorelosStreetGDLMX.JPG|thumb|Calle de Morelos]] Guadalajara proper is divided into four districts corresponding approximately to the northwest, northeast, southwest, and southeast quarters of the city. At the center of everything is the main area of interest to tourists, the '''Centro Histórico''', or the historic downtown. Most of your time will probably be spent here. It is filled with colonial-era buildings and, famously, also boasts several important [[Mexican muralism|mural paintings]] by Jalisco-born José Clemente Orozco, one of Mexico's most important artists and one of the "Big Three" artists of the muralism period. Outside the Centro Histórico are: * '''Sector Hidalgo'''— in northwest of the Centro Histórico, Hidalgo is a largely residential sector encompassing the financial district and the '''[http://www.gcc.com.mx/ Country Club Guadalajara]'''. * '''Sector Libertad'''— northeast of the Centro Histórico, Sector Libertad is mostly given over to industrial use. However, the southwest part of the sector, close to the Centro Histórico, boasts a traditional market ('''Mercado Libertad''') and the '''Plaza de los Mariachis'''. * '''Sector Juárez'''— southwest of the Centro Histórico, Sector Juárez is a shoppers' paradise: it boasts two shopping malls ('''Centro Magno''' and '''Galerias'''), as well as the popular '''Minerva''', '''Chapultepec''', and '''Zona Rosa''' shopping areas. * '''Sector Reforma'''— southeast of the Centro Histórico, Reforma is also a mostly industrial sector, but visitors will no doubt be interested in the pleasant, tree-filled '''Parque Agua Azul''', as well as the '''Tianguis Cultural de Guadalajara''', a street market where alternative clothing and articles such as spiked belts, black trenchcoats, military uniforms, used books and trading cards are for sale at good prices. [[File:Calles GDL.svg|Streets of Guadalajara|thumb|350px]] Still further from central Guadalajara are several suburbs (''municipios'') that are cities in their own right. Several of these are also of interest to visitors, including: *'''Tlaquepaque''' — about 30 minutes by car southeast of the Centro Histórico, downtown Tlaquepaque is a charming streetscape redolent of old Mexico. An important arts and crafts center, Tlaquepaque has a vibrant shopping district where you can buy local pottery and handicrafts, as well as many lovely restaurants, art galleries, and a regional ceramics museum. *'''Tonalá''' — immediately east of Tlaquepaque, Tonalá contains Guadalajara's main bus station, handicraft shops and markets, and the large '''Parque Solidaridad'''. *'''Zapopan''' — a large, busy suburb northwest of Guadalajara, is famous for the old-fashioned charm of its downtown, its active nightlife fueled by the three large private universities within the city limits ('''Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara''', '''Tecnológico de Monterrey''' and '''Universidad del Valle de Atemajac'''), its proliferation of modern shopping malls that will make American suburbanites feel right at home, and—by contrast—also large expanses of pristine nature, such as the '''Bosque de Colomos''' and the gargantuan '''Bosque La Primavera'''. The 275-diagonal bus route runs from Tlaquepaque through the Centro to Zapopan, providing convenient access to all of these outer districts. ===History=== The co-founders of Guadalajara were Doña Beatriz de Hernández and Governor Cristobal de Oñate. In the Plaza de los Fundadores there is a monument in honor of both of them. Guadalajara, and Jalisco in general, were the epicenter of the '''Cristero Wars''' (1926-1929) — a rebellion by Catholic guerrillas against the secularizing reforms of President Plutarco Calles. One of the first armed conflicts of the rebellion took place in Guadalajara in the '''Santuario de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe''' on August 3, 1926, where a group of several hundred Cristeros engaged in a shootout with federal troops. Guadalajara was attacked (unsuccessfully) by the Cristero armies in March 1929. In the 1950s, Avenida Juárez was widened to create today's arterial road of Juárez-Vallarta which you see today. A famous part of that work was the moving of the central telephone exchange without the disruption of service. Pictures of this feat of engineering can be seen in the '''City Museum''' ''(Museo de la Ciudad)''. In April 1992, Sector Reforma was rocked by a huge explosion of gasoline, when a gasoline pipeline leaked into the sewers over a period of days until the fumes finally detonated. Some 200 Tapatíos were killed and several thousand injured. The explosion affected mostly the working-class and industrial areas on the south side of the city. In May 1993, Cardinal Juan Jesús Posadas Ocampo of Guadalajara was killed at the Guadalajara airport. Though at the time the murder was thought to have been some sort of politically motivated assassination, subsequent investigations favor the theory that the cardinal was caught by mistake in drug-related violence, his motorcade having been mistaken for that of a drug lord. Cardinal Ocampo is buried beneath the high altar of the '''Catedral de Guadalajara''', probably because it was first suspected that the motives for his murder were political, rather than accidental. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de Guadalajara Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla | alt={{IATA|GDL}} | url=http://www.aeropuertosgap.com.mx/ | email= | address= | lat=20.521837 | long=-103.311145 | directions=south of city along the Guadalajara-Chapala Highway | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Guadalajara International Airport | wikidata=Q932025 | lastedit=2017-01-03 | content=Airlines serving GDL include [http://www.aeromexico.com AeroMexico], [http://www.alaskaair.com/ Alaska Airlines], [http://www.aa.com/ American Airlines], [http://www.copaair.com/ Copa Airlines], [http://www.delta.com/ Delta], [http://www.united.com United], [http://www.vivaaerobus.com VivaAerobus], and [http://www.volaris.mx Volaris].}} At the airport, always buy the taxi chit from the booth before exiting the terminal, then present it to the licensed driver. Many hotels offer airport pickups that can be cheaper. Uber drivers are not allowed to pick up passengers at the airport. A common way to get around this limitation is to walk outside the airport a few minutes away to the nearby UPS distribution center (labeled as "Centro de Envios UPS" on Google maps). Set your Uber pick up location at this UPS center, which is outside the airport's restrictions and a driver will pick you up there. The app Moovit finds a better bus connection from the airport to your accommodation than Google Maps (as of Dec 2021). The bus stops at the bottom of Terminal 1 and goes to the '''Old Bus Station''' close to the Centro Histórico and costs M$9.50 (Dec 2021). To get to the bus station of the airport, take a right upon exiting the airport building and follow the signs to the "Terminal Terrestre." Walk past the police station and FedEx building. Pay when getting on the bus. There is a bus station inside the airport for the Chapala bus line. Buses leaving the airport go to the Central Vieja (Old Bus Station) downtown, as well as to towns around Lake Chapala, including [[Chapala]] and [[Ajijic]]. The buses operate from 06:00 - 21:00. ===By bus=== Guadalajara has two bus stations: [[File:CentralCamionesGDL.jpg|thumb|Ticket counters in the Central de Autobuses]] * {{marker | type=go | name=Central de Autobuses Guadalajara | alt=New Bus Station | lat=20.621432 | long=-103.285841}} – This is the new main bus station in the suburb of Tlaquepaque, which serves all long-distance routes (generally those which leave the state of Jalisco). This is a large, regional bus hub with numerous bus companies and space to load and unload 100 or more buses at a time. It is a clean, modern station with waiting rooms and restaurants. Restrooms are clean but require payment of M$7 (coins only). From this bus station to the Centro Histórico it's particularly convenient by subway (MiTren). If you arrive by bus and want to use the train, look across the parking lot as you exit the terminal. Note the location of the red Kentucky Fried Chicken sign. Walk towards KFC, to the left of the parking lot, then turn left in front of KFC and cross the street. You will be in the train station. A trip anywhere the train goes will cost 10 pesos (9.50 per ride if you buy a card). * {{marker | type=go | name=Central Vieja| alt=Old Bus Station | address=Calle Los Angeles 218 | lat= 20.6629237 | long= -103.3449105}} - Just south of downtown, a few blocks from the San Juan de Dios marketplace, the Central Vieja is served by regional second-class bus lines to nearby pueblos such as [[Tequila]], [[Mazamitla]], [[Sayula]] and [[Chapala]]. There are many bus lines serving almost every corner of the state of Jalisco. The buses themselves are often clean and very comfortable, and are sometimes indistinguishable from the first-class buses operated on long-distance routes. Fares are very reasonable, for example M$80 (US$4) to Chapala, M$100 (US$5) to Mazamitla. It is advisable to use an Uber or taxi to and from the station as the surrounding area has quite a bit of crime and is regarded as dangerous for outsiders. ===By van=== If you come from '''León''' and want to take a '''second-class van''' to Guadalajara: '''[https://roll-bits.com/ Roll&bits]''' has daily rides for about M$200 (May 2022). Just book your ticket online on their website. The vans have a big trunk for luggage. === By carpooling === From and to Puerto Vallarta it's around M$300 (Nov 2021) on Blablacar. ===By car=== *'''Federal Highway 15''' ''(Carretera Federal 15)'' connects Guadalajara with Mexico City to the east. ==Get around== {{mapframe|20.666667|-103.35|zoom=12}} The Centro (downtown) is best accessible by walking. Most attractions lie within an area of about 1 km long by 350 m wide. For longer trips, or to get in and out of the Centro, use the bus, subway or a taxi. There are also '''horse-drawn carriages''' ''(calandrias)'', which are more expensive and touristy. ===By e-hailing=== Uber, Cabify and Didi cover the city. ===By bike=== Guadalajara integrates bike rentals in its urban transportation plan. Racks of sturdy rental bikes, most painted green and emblazoned with "Mi Bici" logos, are located in high traffic areas including many city parks, Metro stations, and bus stops. The [https://www.mibici.net/en/ Mi Bici web site] provides a site map showing the locations of bike rental kiosks. Bikes can be rented via an annual subscription (about M$470) or on a temporary basis. Traffic can be chaotic on city streets, but the local government is making good progress in setting aside dedicated traffic lanes for bikes. ===By bus=== For finding connections, Moovit and Google Maps cover the city including the subway. Regular buses are green or red and have a "Mi Transporte" logo on the side, they cost M$9.50 (Dec 2023) and cover almost every city street. You can pay with the public transport card or in cash. You don't get change. If paying with a bill, you can fold it and push it through the coin slot inside the bus. Most bus stops have a signpost with a blue sign and a picture of a bus as well as triangular markings on the road with the word ''parada'' (bus stop). Route numbers and final destinations are shown on a lighted display on front of the bus and next to the door. When you wait for a bus, check the ''destination screen'', the ''windshield'' and on the ''left of the front door'', to be sure it's your bus line. It might be good to always ask the bus driver if he goes to your destination. '''Metropolitan Area Mass Transit System''' ''(Sistema de Transporte Colectivo de la Zona Metropolitana)'' is the local transit authority. Check their web site for maps, schedules, and fare information. Alternatively, try [http://www.buscaturuta.com Busca Tu Ruta]{{Dead link|date=February 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Search for Your Route). One particularly useful method for getting back and forth between the Centro Histórico and the Zona Rosa/Minerva area is the '''Guadalajara Trolley Bus''' ("Mi Trole"). Westbound trolleys travel along Avenida Vallarta; eastbound trolleys along Avenida Hidalgo. Just look overhead for the pair of electrical power cables. In the Centro Histórico you can catch the Trolebús on Avenida Hidalgo up to the east side of the Plaza de la Liberación, where it makes the turn to head up to Calzada Independencia and back west. There is also an open-top double-decker '''tourist bus''' ''(TuriBus)'' that leaves from the Rotunda and will take you past all the main sites in Guadalajara, Tlaquepaque and Zapopan. Riders can get on and off the bus at will all day long, for a flat rate. Tour operators use luxury buses (such as Turquesa, Tour and Cardenal). [[File:GDL megabus.jpg|thumb|Mi Macro]] Guadalajara has a modern bus rapid-transit (BRT) system that operates along two lines. The system is called Macrobus (or simply '''Mi Macro'''). It consists of articulated double-length buses that run in dedicated lanes. They are often twice as fast as using Mi Bus (or even Ubers). The fare is M$9.50, but is most conveniently paid with a 10-peso coin at the turnstiles (no change, but who cares since it's half a peso). * '''Calzada''' runs diagonally southwest-northeast, crossing the Centro Historico at "Bicentenario", which connects to the "Independencia" station for ''Mi Tren'' (subway). The Calzada line stops at the Central de Autobuses and is also useful for visiting "Tlaqapaque Centro". An extension to the airport is under construction. * '''Periferico''' is 3/4 of a loop around the city. The line is a 42 km long arc with 42 stations. ===By taxi=== Taxis are another option if you don't want to try to figure out the buses. You can either agree on a price with the cab driver or ask him to turn the meter on. Using the latter option, there is a risk that the driver won't the take the shortest possible route if he thinks you don't know it yourself. The meter will normally be a better price than the price the hotel will tell you to pay if they call you a cab. As always, be sure to ask the fare before you get in. Cabs cost more at night or when they have to cross the outer ring ''(Anillo Periférico)'' of the city. At night, the prices are doubled. If the driver is using a meter, there's also a starting price. Fares to and from the airport are set. If arriving at the Guadalajara airport, a taxi monopoly provides the service from the airport. Pay for your taxi ride at the booths outside of the arrival halls. You can take a normal taxi ''to'' the airport, though. ===By subway=== [[File:Metro_Guadalajara_map.svg|thumb|Guadalajara subway map]] [[File:GDL Metro.jpg|thumb|Mi Tren in Guadalajara]] There is a light-rail '''subway system''' (''Tren Ligero'' or ''Mi Tren'') that can be useful for travelers. There are three lines with two that meet at the western edge of the Centro Histórico, and a third that runs diagonally across the city. (A fourth line is under construction.) On transit maps, they are designated as "Mi Tren" with a block such as L1 or L2 that designate the line. One line runs north-to-south beneath Avenida Federalismo to the edges of the city in both directions. The second runs west-to-east through the Centro Histórico to the eastern suburbs, and the third runs diagonally across the city from Zapopan in the northwest to Tlaquepaque in the southeast. The train can be particularly useful for getting to or from the main (new) bus station as well as for visits to the colonial center of Tlaqapaque where the [[Mexican artesanias|artesanias]] shops fill the streets. The fare is M$9.50 (Dec 2024). You can pay with the public transport card or by cash at the machine: For the latter just push on the blue button on the screen. You can buy a single-trip ticket for 10 pesos (the machine does not give you change). The subway closes at 23:00. A site map and more information about the system is at the [https://www.siteur.gob.mx/ SITEUR] web page. SITEUR is the government agency responsible for electric transit systems in Guadalajara, including Mi Tren, Mi Macro, and the Trole. A public transport card costs M$30 (Dec 2021) and can be purchased from a ticket machine in the entrance of a subway station. It can be used for the Metro, BRT, local buses and for bikesharing (Mi Bici). [[File:Pre-Tren autobus100 2826.jpg|thumb|The Pre-Tren]] A bus service called '''Pre-Tren''' ("Pre-Train") extends from the main subway station (Juárez) through the Zona Rosa to the west Anillo Periférico at a 50% discounted fare for subway card users. Pre-Trenes provide a good service with air-conditioned, red-colored units. The service is better than the smaller green "Mi Transporte" buses ''(camiones)''. ===By car=== You may also rent a car from airport, most major car rental companies such [http://www.Avis.com.com Avis]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.Nationalcar..com National Car Rental], [https://www.citycarrental.com/guadalajara-car-rental City Car Rental],Hertz and Europcar have booths at the baggage claim area. There are also some local car rentals such as [http://www.veico.com Veico Car Rental] and [http://mobixcarrental.com Mobix Car Rental] just outside the airport that also have good cars and often lower prices. Rental cars are only useful for getting outside the urban area (such as driving to [[Puerto Vallarta]] or the [[Costalegre]]. Within the urban area, congestion is unavoidable, navigation very hard (with many 1-way streets), and parking is often hard to find. ==See== ===Centro Histórico and nearby=== [[File:Hospicio Cabañas Nocturno.JPG|thumbnail|Cabañas in the nighttime]] [[File:Hidalgo statue.jpg|This [[Sculpture|statue]] of Miguel de Hidalgo is in the Plaza de la Liberación.|thumb|200px]] [[File:Parque Colomos.jpg|thumb|Colomos Forest]] * {{see | name=Belén Cemetery | alt=Panteón de Belén | url= | email= | address=Belén 684, El Retiro | lat=20.687533 | long=-103.3449 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 7786 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tours Tu-Sa 10:00, 11:00, 13:00 and 14:00, Th-Sa also at 20:30, 22:00 and 23:30 | price= | wikipedia=Panteón de Belén | wikidata=Q3936203 | content=This old cemetery dates back to 1786. It has been converted into a museum that is full of interesting stories of cemetery hauntings and Tapatío culture in general. There are also night tours Th-Sa that many people are afraid to take! Photos and videos for a fee. Tours are offered.}} * {{see | name=Cabañas Cultural Institute | alt=Instituto Cultural Cabañas | url=https://museocabanas.jalisco.gob.mx | email= | address=Cabañas 8, San Juan de Dios | lat=20.676877 | long=-103.337700 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3668 1642 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 | price=M$80; teachers, students, and seniors $60 ($30 with valid ID, kids 6-12 also), free entry on Tuesdays; camera fee $30, video fee $40; Guillermo del Toro Cinema $30, teachers, students and seniors $25 | lastedit=2023-05-16 | content=This [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]] east of Plaza de la Liberación is a cultural and art center where the fresco paintings of Jose Clemente Orozco are exhibited. }} * {{see | name=City Museum | alt=Museo de la Ciudad | url=http://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-de-la-ciudad-de-guadalajara | email= | address=Independencia 684, Zona Centro | lat=20.678166 | long=-103.352078 | directions= | phone=+52 33 1201 8712 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-17:30, Su 10:00-14:30 | price=M$20, teachers and students $10, free for children under 12 and Su | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=Exploring Guadalajara's over 450 years of history, the Museo de la Ciudad is situated in a former convent in the Centro Histórico that dates to the 18th Century. The museum's permanent collection is housed in six exhibition halls arranged chronologically according to century (16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st) and comprises artifacts and explanatory tests related to the history of Guadalajara in terms of art and architecture, ethnography, urban development, and the everyday life of Tapatíos. Temporary exhibits are also displayed, and lectures, workshops and symposia often take place in the auditorium and outdoor courtyard. }} * {{see | name=Museum of the Arts University of Guadalajara | alt=MUSA, Museo de las Artes Universidad de Guadalajara | url=http://www.musaudg.mx/ | email= | address=Av Juárez 975, Col Americana | lat=20.67423 | long=-103.35897 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3134 1664 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, closed M | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=University museum featuring temporary exhibits by local artists. The museum's star attraction is a lecture hall with a backdrop of a famous mural by Jose Clemente Orozco. }} * {{see | name=Cross of Plazas | alt=Cruz de Plazas | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=These four plazas are laid out in the form of a cross, with the Catedral at the center. Any of them offer a nice spot to walk through or rest in for a few minutes, and most have plenty of food vendors nearby. The plazas that make up the Cross are: }} ** {{see | name=Plaza Guadalajara | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67704 | long=-103.34783 | directions=West of the cathedral, between Av. Hidalgo and Calle de Morelos, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Located directly in front of the cathedral, Plaza Guadalajara contains a circular fountain and an outdoor restaurant. Under the fountain there is an underground commercial center which offers all kinds of goods for sale including fruit, beverages and jewelry. }} ** {{see | name=Plaza de Armas | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67619 | long=-103.34694 | directions=south of the cathedral, between Calle de Morelos and Calle Pedro Moreno, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Plaza de Armas offers one of the best views of the cathedral, as well as the '''Government Palace'''. It features a French ironwork bandstand that was purchased by former Mexican president Porfirio Díaz in 1885, and four statues on the corners of the place symbolizing the four seasons. The bandstand serves as the performing arena for marching bands. }} ** {{see | name=Plaza de la Liberación | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67703 | long=-103.34591 | directions=east of the cathedral, between Av. Hidalgo and Calle de Morelos, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This plaza features two large cup-shaped fountains and a gigantic sculpture of Miguel Hidalgo, the man who signed the Mexican Declaration of Independence in the current Governor's Office. It also serves as an atrium for the oldest surviving theater in the city, the '''Teatro Degollado''', and it's the usual spot for massive free concerts. }} ** {{see | name=Rotunda of Illustrious Jaliscans | alt=Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67776 | long=-103.34701 | directions=north of the cathedral, between Av. Hidalgo and Calle Independencia, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This lovely circular monument of fluted columns is a mausoleum containing the ashes of 98 important men and women born in Jalisco. The bright and busy atmosphere of the park around it contrasts with the serious aspect of the Rotunda. On the southern side (across the street from the cathedral) is the bus stop for the TuriBus. }} * {{see | name=Government Palace | alt=Palacio de Gobierno | url=http://www.jalisco.gob.mx | email= | address=Corona 31, Zona Centro | lat=20.67625 | long=-103.34607 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3668 1800 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-20:00 | price= | wikidata=Q110284122 | content=This is the historical center of the government of the State of Jalisco. Today it is mostly visited for its murals, the work of the famous Jalisciense artist, José Clemente Orozco. The most famous of these is a huge portrait of Miguel Hidalgo in the vault of the old chambers of the State Council. }} * {{see | name=Guadalajara Cathedral | alt=Catedral de la Asunción de María Santísima | url=http://arquidiocesisgdl.org/inicio.php | email= | address=Fray Antonio Alcalde 10, Zona Centro | lat=20.677012 | long=-103.346984 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 7168 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1706069 | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=Construction of this Guadalajara landmark started in the 1560s and took about 50 years to complete. The current towers were replaced on 1854 by architect Manuel Gómez Ibarra after an earthquake destroyed the originals in 1818. While visiting the Cathedral, a must-see is the mural "The Immaculate Conception" ''(La Purísima Concepción)'' by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo. Also here is the [http://www.museodeartesacro.com.mx/ Museo de Arte Sacro]. The cathedral's architecture is an eclectic mix of the Gothic, Neoclassical and Palladian styles. }} * {{see | name=Guadalajara Regional Museum | alt=Museo Regional de Guadalajara | url=http://www.inah.gob.mx/paseos/museoregionalguadalajara/ | email= | address=Liceo 60, Zona Centro | lat=20.677804 | long=-103.346421 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 2703 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 09:00-17:30, Su 09:00-16:30 | price= | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=A pleasant museum to spend a few hours in, especially on a hot day when you need some time out of the sun. It features the skeleton of a mammoth found on the nearby Laguna de Chapala. }} * {{see | name=Museo de lo Increíble | alt= | url=http://museodecera.com.mx/ | email= | address=C. Morelos 217 | lat=20.67656 | long=-103.34516 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614 8487 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=It sounds tacky, but this wax/oddities museum can be an interesting way to learn about Jaliscian history. }} * {{see | name=Plaza de los Mariachis | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av. Javier Mina at Calz. Independencia Sur, San Juan de Dios | lat=20.67495 | long=-103.3414 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28517416 | content=The official name of this small triangular plaza is Plaza Pepe Guizar, named for the composer who was responsible for the song "Guadalajara". However, its popular name comes from the mariachi bands who, for a small fee, will serenade you while enjoying the restaurants and bars around the square (a word of warning, though: this neighborhood becomes sketchy after dark). The Plaza de los Mariachis is where the famous '''Mexican Hat Dance''' ''(Jarabe Tapatío)'' was born. }} * {{see | name=Acuario Michin | alt= | url=https://acuariomichin.com/guadalajara/ | email= | address=Mariano de la Bárcena 990 | lat=20.69242 | long=-103.35119 | directions=next to Parque Alcalde | phone=+52 33 1644 9910 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11ː00-18ː00 | price= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Good representation of aquatic species here. }} * {{see | name=Blue Water Park | alt=Parque Agua Azul | url= | email=parque-agua-azul-92@hotmail.com | address=Calz. Independencia Sur 973, Reforma | lat=20.6596 | long=-103.3482 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3619 0328 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 | price= | content=Open air concerts, a butterfly enclosure, an aviary and plenty of greenery are some of the things that can be enjoyed at Agua Azul. This is a good place to take a break from the often dry, dusty and crowded environment of the city. The park houses a museum of paleontology, and there is a museum of regional archaeology just across Calzada Independencia. The 1.5 km from the Centro Histórico to the park is quite walkable, but it is also accessible via the 62A and 62D buses along Calzada Independencia. }} ===Minerva, Chapultepec, and west of the Centro Histórico=== * {{see | name=Chapalita Roundabout | alt=Glorieta Chapalita | url=http://www.glorietachapalita.com | email= | address=Av. Guadalupe at Av. de las Rosas, Chapalita, Zapopan | lat=20.666 | long=-103.403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A verdant gathering place in a lovely neighborhood ''(colonia)'' in the suburb of Zapopan, this "garden of art" sees local artists showing off their creations every Sunday while local residents show off their dogs. Raucous celebrations take place here on national holidays. }} * {{see | name=The Expiatory Church of the Blessed Sacrament | alt=El Expiatorio, Templo del Santísimo Sacramento | url=https://m.facebook.com/pages/Templo-Expiatorio/119386111470505 | email= | address=López Cotilla 935, Col. Americano | lat=20.673598 | long=-103.358947 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 3410 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento | image=Templo Expiatorio de GDL.jpg | wikidata=Q7698848 | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=This finely detailed Gothic Revival cathedral was built over decades starting in the late 19th century. There is a mechanical clock in the bell tower that features a procession of the Twelve Apostles at 09:00, 12:00 and 18:00. The interior of the church features a lovely collection of stained glass windows. }} * {{see | name=Minerva Roundabout | alt=Glorieta Minerva | url= | email= | address=Av. Ignacio Vallarta at Av. Adolfo López Mateos, Zona Centro | lat=20.674167 | long=-103.387222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5964364 | content=This ''glorieta'' (traffic circle) showcases a giant statue of the Roman goddess Minerva (one of the most important symbols of Guadalajara), surrounded by a fountain. It's sometimes shut down to traffic and opened to pedestrians when there's a major city celebration—such as when the '''Chivas''' football team wins a major game. }} * {{see | name=Monument of the Child Heroes | alt=Monumento a los Niños Héroes | url= | email= | address=Av. Niños Héroes at Av. Chapultepec Sur, Moderna | lat=20.66684 | long=-103.36843 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 1340 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A massive stone spire that memorializes six teenage military cadets who died defending Mexico City's military academy from U.S. forces during the Mexican-American War. }} * {{see | name=Vallarta Arch | alt=Arcos Vallarta | url= | email= | address=Av. Ignacio Vallarta just east of Glorieta Minerva, Zona Centro | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1577816 | content=This Romanesque double arch stands at what was once the western edge of the city. There are nice views to be had from the top, and interesting murals to view on the way up. }} ===Zapopan=== * {{see | name=Colomos Forest | alt=Bosque Los Colomos | url=https://bosquesurbanos.mx/bosques/bosque-los-colomos | email= | address=El Chaco 3200, Colomos Providencia, Zapopan | lat=20.707778 | long=-103.392889 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3641 3804 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-15:00 | price= | image=Parque Colomos.jpg | wikidata=Q5979585 | content=This lovely, family-friendly green space is a 92-hectare urban forest that boasts 30,000 trees of diverse species. Its mission is to conserve a beautiful example of a native woodland in an urban environment and educate visitors on ways for humans to better coexist with nature. In terms of visitor amenities, Colomos boasts lovely gardens including a Japanese garden and a cactus garden, goldfish ponds where children enjoy feeding the fish, and horseback riding. Smoking is strictly prohibited. }} * {{see | name=Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan | alt= | url=https://arquidiocesisgdl.org/ | email= | address=Calle Eva Briseño 152, Zapopan | lat=20.72125 | long=-103.39231 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3633 0141 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Basilica_of_Our_Lady_of_Zapopan | wikidata=Q4867367 | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=This basilica whose construction began in 1689 is especially popular because it preserves a wooden Virgin relic that came from Spain in the 16th century, and which is tied to a visitation by the Virgin herself with the intent of getting the indigenous people to lay down their weapons in the process of Spanish colonization. On October 12 a pilgrimage that includes up to a million people travels from the Cathedral of Guadalajara to this Basilica, where a mass is held and people celebrate with music, food and fireworks. }} * {{see | name=Trompo Mágico Museum | alt= | url=http://trompomagico.jalisco.gob.mx/ | email= | address=Av. Central Guillermo Gonzalez Camarena 750, Zapopan | lat=20.72269 | long=-103.43150 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3030 0001 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-F 09:00-18:00, Sa Su 11:00-19:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Interactive kids museum. }} * {{see | name=Calaverandia - Parque Temático | alt= | url=https://www.calaverandia.mx/en/ | email= | address=Avenida Manuel Ávila Camacho | lat=20.71211 | long=-103.37357 | directions=located in Parque Avila Camacho | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=A thematic amusement park. }} ===Tlaquepaque=== [[File:FotoCH 17.JPG|Plaza Tapatia|thumb]] The municipalities of Tlaquepaque and Tonala to the southeast of Guadalajara are essentially suburbs, though they retain much of their small-town charm. They had similar origins in originally being settlements of indigenous tribes with a pottery industry and were overtaken by the Spanish conquistador Nuño de Guzmán in 1530. Tlaquepaque also hosted Miguel Hidalgo on his way to Guadalajara in the [[Mexican War of Independence]]. Today the hallmark feature of these places is still pottery, though shops with furniture, textiles and other handicrafts are plentiful. In Tonala, don't miss the '''Thursday and Sunday street market''' revolving around handicrafts in front of the main church. * {{see | name=Museo Regional de la Ceramica | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-regional-de-la-ceramica-de-tlaquepaque | email= | address=Calle Independencia 237, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.63914 | long=-103.31465 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3860 1177 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 09:00-17:00 | price=free | wikipedia=Museo_Regional_de_la_Ceramica,_Tlaquepaque | wikidata=Q6940511 | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=A tribute to the pottery heritage of Tlaquepaque. Portrays different styles like burnished clay, high temperature, flag clay and petatillo. }} * {{see | name=Parroquia San Pedro Apóstol | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/ParroquiaSanPedroTlaquepaque | email= | address=Guillermo Prieto 60, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.64011 | long=-103.31177 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635 1001 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 09:30-13:30, 16:30-20:00 Sa; 09:30-13:30; closed Su | price= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Baroque/Byzantine-designed parish that dates to 1845, fronting the city square known as Jardin Hidalgo. }} * {{see | name=Centro Cultural El Refugio | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/casas-de-la-cultura/centro-cultural-el-refugio | email= | address=Calle Donato Guerra 160, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.64204 | long=-103.31292 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3562 7036 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 09:00-15:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=This building built in 1885 to be a psychiatric hospital now hosts cultural events and the Pantaleón Panduro, or display of winners from the National Ceramics Contest. }} ===Tonala=== * {{see | name=Museo Regional Tonallan | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-regional-tonallan | email= | address=Calle Ramón Corona 73, Tonalá | lat=20.62520 | long=-103.23980 | directions= | phone=+52 33 1200 3936 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, closed M | price=free | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Includes artwork pertaining to the Nahual, a shapeshifter sort of being. }} * {{see | name=Parroquia de Santiago Apostol/Capilla de la Cruz Blanca | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Parroquia-Santiago-Ap%C3%B3stol-Tonal%C3%A1-255442698506992/ | email= | address=Av Benito Juarez 80, Tonalá | lat=20.62416 | long=-103.24259 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3683 1186 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=16th-century churches. The parroquia is known for its Dance of the Tastoanes featuring masks on July 25th. }} * {{see | name=Museo Nacional de la Cerámica | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-nacional-de-la-ceramica-jorge-wilmot | email= | address=Calle Constitución 104, Tonalá | lat=20.62684 | long=-103.24313 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3683 2519 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=more about ceramics. }} ===Huentitán=== [[File:Huentitan Canyon GDL.jpg|thumb|Huentitan-Oblatos Canyon]] * {{see | name=Huentitán-Oblatos Canyon | alt=Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos | url= | email= | address=North end of Calz. Independencia Norte, Huentitán el Alto | lat=20.70583 | long=-103.28306 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3674 0238 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This is the forested gorge of the Río Lerma-Santiago, accessible via buses #62A and #62D which run along Calzada Independencia. There are two locations with fine views of the gorge. }} * {{see | name=Guadalajara Zoo | alt=Zoológico Guadalajara | url=http://www.zooguadalajara.com.mx | email= | address=Paseo del Zoológico 600, Huentitán el Alto | lat=20.728381 | long=-103.308333 | directions=Mi Mega to Zoologico | phone=+52 33 3674 4488 | tollfree= | hours=W-Su 10:00-18:00 when school is in session, daily 10:00-18:00 during summer break and on holiday weekends | price=varies by packet, M$200-400 (Nov 2024) | wikipedia=Guadalajara Zoo | wikidata=Q3576044 | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=The modern Guadalajara Zoo is next to the Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos. It's worth visiting for its view of the canyon, and for its collection of animals, its safari ride, aerial cable cars, and its panoramic train. Other highlights include a reptile house, an arctic habitat, a nocturnal environment exhibit and a tropical forest simulated environment. Special packages available for different combinations of access to panoramic train, safari, aerial cable cars, and/or aquarium }} * {{see | name=Independencia Overlook Park | alt=Parque Mirador Independencia | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.74032 | long=-103.31023 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6062388 | content=This lovely park is at the northern terminus of Calzada Independencia adjacent to the Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos, with beautiful views of the canyon. Pretty gardens and benches are peppered around the park, allowing visitors to sit and enjoy the different views the park has to offer. This is also the starting point for many of the hiking trails that traverse the canyon. }} ==Do== {{mapframe|name=Map of the region around Guadalajara}} === City tour=== You can make a sightseeing tour in a very economically and animal friendly carriage. These are not powered by a horse, instead by a battery like an electric car. The start is at the cathedral. Prices are M$300 for half an hour, M$400-500 for a whole hour (Dec 2021). === Conventions === Guadalajara is Latin America's top destination for business conventions with the city's Expo Guadalajara convention center hosting many of the country's largest trade shows. * {{do | name=Expo Guadalajara | url=https://expoguadalajara.mx/ | address=Av. Mariano Otero 1499, Verde Valle | lat=20.65387807345402 | long=-103.39176410120137 | phone=+52 333 343 3000 | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Largest event venue in Mexico. Hosts major industrial trade shows throughout the year. }} ===Sports=== Guadalajara's sports culture is one of the most vibrant in Mexico, with a well-developed infrastructure of stadiums and facilities, achievements under its belt such as its successful turn as the host of the 2011 Pan-American Games, world-class athletes such as professional golfer Lorena Ochoa calling the city home, and big plans for the future. Guadalajara is also home to many ballet schools surrounding the metropolitan area. ====Football==== Of course, one would be remiss in talking about Guadalajara sports without mentioning the three professional football (''futbol'', i.e. what Americans call soccer) teams based there: '''Estudiantes''', '''Atlas''', and of course, '''Chivas'''. Chivas, more properly known as '''Club Deportivo Guadalajara''', is, according to FIFA, the most popular football team in Mexico. Chivas has won 11 first-division titles and holds the longest-ever season-opening winning streak: 8 back-to-back wins. Chivas is also the only football team in Mexico with exclusively Mexican players, whereas other teams have players of varying nationalities. The team colors are red, white, and blue, signifying "Fraternity, Union, and Sports". The new stadium, '''Estadio Akron''', with a capacity of 49,850, was inaugurated in 2010. [[File:Estadio Akron 02-07-2022 cabecera sur lado derecho.jpg|thumb|Estadio Akron is a FIFA World Cup venue]] * {{do | name=Estadio Akron | alt=formerly Estadio Omnilife | url=https://estadioakron.mx/ | email= | address=Circuito JVC 2800, Ayamonte, Zapopan | lat=20.681667 | long=-103.462778 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3777 5700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q666183 | lastedit=2025-01-10 | content=This is the stadium where most of the outdoor events for the 2011 Pan-American Games were held, and—more importantly—where the most popular football team in the city and the whole country, The stadium will host games for [[2026 FIFA World Cup|FIFA's 2026 World Cup]]. The stadium's home team, Deportivo Guadalajara (Chivas), has played since 2010. Chivas plays here every other Saturday at 19:00, unless otherwise specified. If you happen to be in Guadalajara on a Saturday, you are most likely to find either a Chivas football game in this stadium, or an Atlas game at Estadio Jalisco (below). Big games to watch out are Chivas vs. Atlas (which can be held in either stadiums depending on which one is scheduled as the home team) and Chivas vs. América—the "National Superclassic" ''(superclásico nacional)''—as these teams are bitter rivals. Either of these match-ups are sure to sell out the stadium and treat those lucky enough to get tickets to an intense atmosphere. Estadio Akron is a difficult place to reach by public transport. It is close to the Periférico Oriente, so taking a taxi is the best option. Alternatively, use any bus that will go around Periférico and you'll eventually get there, just ask the driver to let you know when you are there, since the stadium's visibility from Periférico is very limited.<br /><br />Two museums inside Estadio Akron should not be missed. '''Museo Chivas''' is a soccer museum focused on the stadium's home team, ''Chivas'', who are widely regarded as the most popular football team in Mexico. The museum chronicles the team's long history, with bios, statistics, and outstanding achievements of its players. The second museum is '''Jose Vergara Museo''', known as ''JOVEM''. This museum has nothing to do with soccer, making it an unlikely resident of the stadium. It is a design museum, focusing on the intersection of art and architecture. Guides are available to walk through the museum with you, explaining humanistic values comprising design elements. }} [[File:Estadio jalisco.jpg|thumb| Jalisco Stadium]] * {{do | name=Estadio Jalisco | alt=Jalisco Stadium | url=http://www.estadiojalisco.net | email= | address=Siete Colinas 1772, Independencia | lat=20.705 | long=-103.328139 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3637 0563 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1346716 | content=It's in Colonia Independencia, and can be reached by taking any bus along the Calzada Independencia and asking for the Estadio Jalisco. You will almost definitely see it if you look out, it will be on your left as you come from the center. Here the football team Atlas plays. Chivas used to play on this stadium until 2010, when Estadio Akron was completed. During the season there are league games every other Saturday. If Atlas is playing as a visitor, then you can look for a Chivas game at Estadio Akron. A big game to watch out for is Atlas vs. Chivas, which has an incredible atmosphere, though most games are worth experiencing. If you are of a nervous disposition, perhaps avoid the upper stands when there is a large crowd as it's known to shake when the crowds begin to jump. }} *{{do | name=Estadio Tres de Marzo | alt=March 3rd Stadium | url=https://www.facebook.com/Estadio-3-De-Marzo-252391198116915/ | email= | address=Patria 1201, Villa Universitaria, Zapopan | lat=20.693753 | long=-103.416136 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3610 1834 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q579997 | content=The Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara's football stadium in the north of the city, where "Los Estudiantes" play, is named for the date of the founding of the university in 1935. The Estudiantes play in the '''Primera Liga''' along with the other Guadalajara teams, Atlas and Chivas. }} ==== Baseball ==== Guadalajara hosts teams in both of Mexico's major professional leagues. Both play in the Estadio los Charros de Jalisco in the suburban municipality of Zapopan. The stadium was built in 2011 for the Panamerican Games and is often referred to as ''Estadio Panamericana'', though it was purchased by the Charros. * {{do | name=Estadio Los Charros de Jalisco | alt=Estadio Panamericano | url= | email= | address=Calle Sta. Lucía 373, Tepeyac, Zapopan | lat=20.727672 | long=-103.381458 | directions=use bus or taxi (no on-site parking) | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=Modern, state-of-the-art baseball stadium that is home field for both the [http://www.charrosjalisco.com '''Charros de Jalisco'''] (Pacific League, winter) and the '''Mariachis de Guadalajara''' (Mexican League, summer). The stadium is modern with unobstructed sight lines. Small, intimate park seating just 8,000 fans. Very clean and comfortable. Beware: Inconvenient, fan-hostile payment policies. The stadium requires you to buy their own payment card and use it for any purchases in the stadium (though credit cards are accepted for ticket purchase). The stadium is also difficult to reach as there is no parking and nearby access roads are blocked on game days. Take public transit, taxis, or Ubers and don't be surprised if they drop you off in an oddly uninviting neighborhood. }} ====Bullfighting==== * {{do | name=Nuevo Progreso Bullring | alt=Plaza de Toros Nuevo Progreso | url=https://plazanuevoprogreso.com.mx/ | email= | address=Montes Pirineos 1930, Monumental | lat=20.70198 | long=-103.32533 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3651 8378 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=It's right across the road from the Estadio Jalisco, just off Calzada Independencia. Bullfights take place at the Plaza Nuevo Progreso during the season on Sundays at 16:30. Those arriving by bus might not be able to see the bullring from the street, as it's hidden behind some trees, so get off when you see the Estadio Jalisco and go in the opposite direction. Be aware that [[Bullfighting]] is controversial and local courts blocked bullfights. Higher appellate courts may or may not have reversed the decision, but if you really want to see bullfights in Guadalajara, you may need to go to one of the suburbs that have their own bullrings (such as Tlaqapaque). }} ====Golf==== Golf is a popular past time with Mexican businessmen, but many courses are private and you would need an invitation from a member to play there. The following courses are open to the public or have some type of daily pass for non-members. Most of the golf courses are on the north side of Guadalajara, around Zapopan, but challenging courses may be found in any part of the city. * {{do | name=Atlas Country Club | alt= | url=https://country.atlas.com.mx/ | email= | address=Guadalajara-Chapala Road Km. 6.5 El Salto| lat=20.601554113763726 | long=-103.30527198401478 | directions=south side of Guadalajara, near Tonala | phone=+52 333 689 2620 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 07:00 - 21:00, but check weekend hours, which may be much shorter | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-03-28 | content=One of the best courses in Guadalajara is an 18-hole course designed by Joe Finger. Caddies are required and visitor greens fees often include the caddie service. }} * {{do | name=Club de Golf Santa Anita | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carr. Guadalajara-Morelia Km 6.5 | lat=20.564914519337734 | long=-103.46939760516346 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 11:00 - 19:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-03-28 | content=Classic 18-hole course with hills, long fairways, and a challenging final 4 holes. Facilities include a driving range, putting greens, a pro shop, a clubhouse with an upscale dining room, and outdoor patios to relax with a drink, enjoying the scenery. }} * {{do | name=El Cielo Country Club | alt= | url=http://www.elcielocc.com/ | email= | address=Paseo del Cielo 1, El Palomar | lat=20.606211818614288 | long=-103.47285399771202 | directions=on the west side of Guadalajara | phone=+52 33 3684 4436 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 07:00 - 19:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-03-28 | content=Affordable greens fees combined with challenging elevation drops and spectacular scenery with backgrounds of the city skyline and the nearby mountain ranges make this one of the most popular courses for visiting golfers. }} ===Performing arts=== [[File:Gdl-degollado.jpg|thumb|Jalisco Philharmonic taking the stage at Teatro Degollado]] * {{do | name=Filharmonica de Jalisco | alt=Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra | url=http://en.ofj.com.mx/ | email= | address=Teatro Degollado, Centro | lat=20.677168 | long=-103.344832 | directions= | phone=+52 3614 4773 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=One of Mexico's top professional orchestras, the Jalisco Philharmonic celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2015. The orchestra performs three full seasons of classical music from January to December each year under the direction of Jose Luis Castillo. The orchestra frequently tours abroad. The concert hall is a showcase of opulence that will be appreciated by students of music, architecture, and history. }} * {{do | name=Teatro Diana | alt= | url=http://www.teatrodiana.com/ | email= | address=Av. 16 de Septiembre 710, Mexicaltzingo | lat=20.665432 | long=-103.348996 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614 7940 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-03 | content=Modern performing arts venue built in 2005, hosting concerts, opera, ballet and other events. Seats about 2,400 patrons. }} ===Holidays and events=== ====Spring==== * {{do | name=Guadalajara Film Festival | alt=Festival Internacional del Cine de Guadalajara | url=http://www.ficg.mx/ | email= | address=Nebulosa 2916, Jardines del Bosque | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3121 7461 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Guadalajara International Film Festival | wikidata=Q1408552 | content=The biggest film festival in Latin America and one of the most important showcases for Mexican and Latin American cinema on the world stage, the Festival Internacional del Cine de Guadalajara takes place annually in early March. A bevy of awards are given in all categories of film, and it also serves as a forum for education and creative interchange among Latin American cineasts. }} =====Summer===== * {{do | name=International Mariachi and Charrería Conference | alt=Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi y la Charrería | url=http://www.mariachi-jalisco.com.mx/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mariachi bands from all over Mexico and the world meet the last week of August and the first week of September, usually at '''Teatro Degollado''' and the surrounding area, to play and compete for the delight of fans. You won't witness anything like this unique event anywhere else. }} ====Autumn==== * {{do | name=Independence Day | alt=Día de la Independencia | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Visitors who find themselves in Guadalajara on 16 September are in for a festive and patriotic treat. One traditional way that Tapatíos enjoy celebrating this holiday is with a reenactment of the "Cry of Pain" ''(Grito de Dolores)'', the incident that, in 1810, kicked off the war that ended with Mexico's independence from [[Spain]]. At the stroke of midnight, locals go to the main square and shout out in unison: half yell "Viva" and the other half "México", going on to the names of important heroes of Mexican history: "Viva Hidalgo", "Viva Morelos", and so on. }} * {{do | name=Pilgrimage of Our Lady of Zapopan | alt=Romería de la Virgen de Zapopan | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Celebrated in Guadalajara on 12 October, this event honors the local Virgin Mary figure of the Guadalajara area, the Virgen de Zapopan. On this day, over a million people parade the famous statuette from the downtown cathedral to its home in the '''Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Zapopan'''. This festival is only celebrated in the Guadalajara area, and is one of the largest examples of a [[w:Romería|romería]] outside Spain. It is inscribed by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. }} * {{do | name=International Book Fair | alt=Feria Internacional del Libro | url=http://www.fil.com.mx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=The "FIL" takes place from late November to early December in Guadalajara. Companies and delegations come from all over the world to exhibit their books and see books from other places. Every year a country or region serves as the guest of honor, presenting books that represent its particular literary tradition. }} ====Winter==== * {{do | name=Christmas | alt=Navidad | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Tapatío Christmas tradition that you may witness if you're in Guadalajara over the holidays is known as "Las Posadas" (The Inns). Children parade through the neighborhood recreating the passage of Joseph and Mary through Bethlehem, asking for shelter and being refused. Generally nowadays this is a celebration for family and friends, but if you know a Mexican, it's a great way to experience Mexican culture firsthand. Regular appearances include piñatas, mariachi bands, Mexican beer, tequila and general merriment. }} * {{do | name=Foundation of Guadalajara | alt=Fundación de Guadalajara | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Held on February 14th, this is a celebration to commemorate the foundation of the city of Guadalajara on that day in 1542. }} === Out of town trips === * {{marker | type=do | name=[[Tequila]] | lat=20.8830754 | long= -103.8343469}} – 65km in the west. Situated in a picturesque countryside setting, it's perhaps the quintessential Guadalajara side trip, and is the best place to sample Mexico's favorite liquor. The Jose Cuervo distillery has a packaged tour that will pick you up from your hotel, take you to an agave farm, then to the distillery for a tour with free samples and a gift shop, then gift you with vouchers for a free margarita and 10% off at a local restaurant. The city itself is also quaint and worth exploring. Tequila is easily accessible by bus (about 90 minutes one-way), and many hotels organize excursions there for their guests. However, perhaps the most fun way to get to Tequila is the [http://www.tequilaexpress.com.mx/ Tequila Express], a charming tourist railroad complete with tequila shots and roving mariachis. The train leaves Guadalajara's train station Sa & Su 10:00, returning the same evening. * {{marker | type=do | name=Laguna de Chapala | lat=20.2811878 | long=-103.1935038}} – 50 km in the south. It's the main regional vacation spot, a lovely lake surrounded by picturesque towns such as [[Chapala]] and [[Ajijic]] (the latter of which has a sizeable gringo expat community). Direct buses to Chapala leave from the Old Bus Station (Central Vieja). The 'directo' bus has A/C and takes 1 hour. It costs M$58 (Dec 2021) and departs every full hour from Guadalajara. On the way back the bus departs hourly 15 min after the full hour from Chapala. [[File:Los Guachimontones.JPG|Guachimontones|thumb]] *{{do |name=Guachimontones|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-05-31|content=65 km in the west. A pre-Columbian archaeological site near the town of Teuchitlán, about an hour west of Guadalajara, that dates to the period between 300 BC and 900 AD and is known for its unique circular stepped pyramids. This complex of more than 40 hectares was only discovered in the 1970s|wikidata=Q2989048|wikipedia=Guachimontones}} * {{do | name=Parque Bicentenario Puente de Calderon | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.6751 | long=-103.0101 | directions=off Route 80 east of Zapotlanejo | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:00-18:00 daily | price= | wikipedia=Battle_of_Calderón_Bridge | wikidata=Q786657 | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=45 km in the east. This 17th-century stone bridge was the site of the key Battle of the Bridge of Calderón in 1811 in the Mexican War of Independence. }} ==== Tequila ==== Visitors who enjoy gastronomy in general and alcoholic beverages more specifically will want to take the opportunity to experience Mexico's national drink among the people who make it and love it. There are numerous opportunities to join a tequila tasting in Guadalajara, and travelers who want to delve deeply into the history and the technical details of making, aging, and serving tequila can find many types of tequila tours, including those that follow the state's two official itineraries that are part of the ''[[Tequila Trail]]''. ==== Outdoor activities ==== Guadalajara is a highland city with an elevation of 1566 meters, set in the Atemajac Valley of the [[Sierra Madre|Sierra Madre Occidental]] mountain range. It offers outdoor enthusiasts excellent opportunities for vigorous outdoor activities, especially [[Hiking]], [[Mountain biking]]. These can be enjoyed in parks and protected natural areas that are easily accessible to many parts of the city. These natural areas include: * '''Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos''' - canyon with forested trails in the southern part of the city * '''[[La Primavera Biosphere Reserve]]''' - protected areas of forested inactive volcanoes with 12 marked nature trails for both hiking and mountain biking ==Learn== The [http://www.udg.mx/ Universidad de Guadalajara], often referred to simply as "U de G", is the most important institution of higher learning in western Mexico, and the second most important in the country after Mexico City's mammoth [http://www.unam.mx/ UNAM]. The University also serves as a center of cultural activity enjoyed by residents and visitors alike, such as the Ballet Folclórico and the {{marker|type=listing|name=[https://boletomovil.com/cineforoudg Cineforo Universidad]|lat=20.67515|long=-103.35875}}. Guadalajara offers many language schools for the fast growing need for learning Spanish. * {{listing | name=Guadalajara Language Center | alt= | url=https://www.glc.com.mx/ | email=glc@glc.com.mx | address=Francisco I. Madero #160a San Pedro Tlaquepaque Jalisco | lat=20.64195 | long=-103.31149 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635-2535 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 8AM-9PM, Sa 9AM-Noon | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-03-17 | content= }} * {{listing | name=IMAC | alt= | url=https://www.spanish-school.com.mx/ | email= info@spanish-school.com.mx | address=Donato Guerra 180 (Historic Downtown Area) | lat=20.67377 | long=-103.35076 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614-1414 | tollfree= | fax=+52 33 3613-4621 | hours=M-F 9AM-8PM, Sa 9AM-3PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-03-17 | content= }} ==Buy== In the centro are ATMs of BanCoppel, Banjercito, BanBajio and Citibanamex. In the Americana district there is a Banca Inbursa ATM inside the Sanborns, BanBajio, Banca Mifel and Santander. In the centro and Americana neighborhood are some stores of Oxxo and 7eleven as well as some minimarkets. On the Av Juárez is the {{marker | type=buy | name= big supermarket Soriana Súper| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.6748893 | long=-103.3517079 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | content=}}. The shopping scene in Guadalajara is centered around two opposing faces of Latin American culture: traditional open-air markets ''(tianguis)'' and the modern shopping plazas and malls that, more and more, are sprouting up around the outskirts of town. The latter can be found in particular proliferation southwest of the Centro Histórico in '''Sector Juárez''', as well as in suburban ''municipios'' such as '''Zapopan'''. A refreshing exception to this rule is the historic downtown district of '''Tlaquepaque''', southeast of Guadalajara proper. This area is characterized by a lively collection of shops centered on the pedestrian-only streets, '''Calle Independencia''' and '''Avenida Juárez'''. Emphasized in these charming shops are arts and handicrafts of all kinds: one-of-a-kind handmade furniture, textiles, jewelry, paintings, sculptures, glassware, home decor, and even chocolate. ===Tianguis=== These temporary open-air street markets or bazaars are a Mexican tradition dating back to the Aztec days, and are a great way to get up close and personal with local culture at its most real—and score some bargains in the process. Some of the biggest tianguis in Guadalajara include: * {{buy | name=Guadalajara Cultural Tianguis | alt=Tianguis Cultural de Guadalajara | url= | email= | address=Plaza Benito Juárez, corner Av. Wáshington and Av. 16 de Septiembre, Zona Centro | lat=20.659617 | long=-103.350569 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa 07:00-19:00 | price= | content=Popular especially with young people, the Tianguis Cultural is not only a great place to buy clothes and music, but also to catch free open-air concerts, mingle, see and be seen. }} * {{buy | name=Liberty Market | alt=Mercado Libertad | url= | email= | address=Javier Mina 52, San Juan de Dios | lat=20.67543 | long=-103.33948 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3618 0506 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 06:00-20:00 | price= | content=Known by locals as '''Mercado San Juan de Dios''' because of the river that used to pass through the area, the Mercado Libertad is a very busy, multi-story enclosed market; with hundreds of vendors, it's the largest market in Latin America. The market also houses a very popular and very good food court featuring everything from seafood to local favorites like '''birria''' (goat stew) and '''pozole''' (hominy and pork stew). It's a great place to get souvenirs. Unfortunately, it isn't the safest place in town, so make sure to always keep on the lookout for purse-snatchers. }} * {{buy | name=Tianguis el Baratillo | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Juan R. Zavala 38, Santa María | lat=20.683704 | long=-103.319313 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su 07:30-15:00 | price= | content=The largest tianguis in Guadalajara, this market sells anything and everything—tools, furniture, food, clothes and accessories, kitchenware, toys, and all manner of other articles—with an emphasis on used items sold at great bargains (hence its name El Baratillo, which roughly translates as "The Flea Market"). }} ===Malls and shopping centers=== * {{buy | name=Centro Magno | alt= | url=https://www.centro-magno.com/ | email= | address=Vallarta 2425, Arcos Vallarta | lat=20.67388 | long=-103.38057 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 1113 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Located between Avenidas Vallarta and López Cotilla, the Centro Magno has a big, wide, closed space in the middle, surrounded mostly by restaurants, fashion, electronics and bazaar stores, with a cinema on the top floor. It's served directly by bus routes 629A and 629B, and routes 626, 622, 24, 258 and 101 are also nearby. }} * {{buy | name=Galería del Calzado | alt= | url=http://www.galeriadelcalzado.com.mx/ | email= | address=Avenida México 3225, Vallarta San Jorge | lat=20.67851 | long=-103.39422 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3647 6422 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 11:00-21:00, Su 11:00-20:30 | price= | content=This is an entire mall that contains over 60 shoe stores, great for the dedicated footwear obsessive. As you can imagine, all prices and styles can be found here. }} * {{buy | name=Galerías Guadalajara | alt= | url=https://galeriasgdl.mx/ | email= | address=Rafael Sanzio 150, Residencial La Estancia, Zapopan | lat=20.676910 | long=-103.431900 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3113 9828 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11ː00-21ː00 | price= | wikidata=Q5874753 | lastedit=2026-02-10 | content=Guadalajara's biggest mall is at the intersection of Avenidas Vallarta and Rafael Sanzio. It houses Guadalajara's biggest multiplex cinema, with 20 THX projection rooms and 4 VIP rooms. Has multi-level parking ramps as well as more than 1 km² of open parking space shared with a Wal-Mart and a Sam's Club. Served by bus routes 25, 47 and 629. }} * {{buy | name=Plaza Andares | alt= | url=http://www.andares.com | email= | address=Puerta de Hierro 4965, Fraccionamiento Plaza Andares, Zapopan | lat=20.71027 | long=-103.41204 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3648 2298 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=At the corner of Avenidas Patria and Puerta de Hierro. Designer stores abound here: DKNY, Cartier, Hugo Boss, Mont Blanc, Helmut Lang, Fendi, Alexander McQueen, Versace, Armani, Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Valentino, Diesel, Cavalli, Calvin Klein, Channel and Dior. }} * {{buy | name=Plaza del Sol | alt= | url=http://www.plazadelsol.com | email= | address=López Mateos Sur 2375, Ciudad del Sol, Zapopan | lat=20.65046 | long=-103.40134 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3121 5950 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7203715 | content=This mall, Guadalajara's second-largest, is near the corner of Avenidas López Mateos and Mariano Otero. The mall boasts a multi-story car park and an open layout, with big, open spaces in the middle, surrounded by hallways. Served by bus routes 357, 101, 24, 258, 626, 629, 645 and 701, as well as the longer-distance buses that connect the nearby town of Santa Anita with the metropolitan area. The '''Torrena Tower''', measuring 336.5 m in height, is under construction next to both Plaza del Sol and '''Plaza Torrena''', a smaller, underground mall nearby that can be recognized by its white concrete dome. }} * {{buy | name=Plaza Patria | alt= | url=http://www.plazapatria.com | email= | address=Patria 45160, Altamira, Zapopan | lat=20.71242 | long=-103.37876 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Bounded by Avenidas Patria, Ávila Camacho and Américas, this two-story mall, smaller than many of the others on this list, nonetheless has a sizable assortment of stores. Clothes and electronics can be bought here, and there are also convenience stores and a supermarket. Served by bus routes 24, 25, 604, 622, 632, 634 and 701. }} ==Eat== Guadalajara has a wide range of restaurants with outstanding street vendors selling regional specialties (particularly birria, tortas, and various tacos). The city also has a mind-boggling variety of outstanding restaurants with dozens of 5-star restaurants offering an upscale experience and a wide range of international flavors. 2024 saw the famed Michelin Guide make its first pass through Mexico and its initial list of recommended Mexican restaurants included 25 outstanding restaurants. In addition to traditional Mexican specialties, Tapatíos seem to be especially fond of Italian food—a considerable number of restaurants of that type can be found around Guadalajara. If you miss American fast food, worry not: in addition to the restaurants listed here, Guadalajara has plenty of American fast-food franchises. ===Budget=== Birria, tortas ahogadas, and chilaquiles are some of the most traditional Tapatío dishes. In the Centro and Americana district you find several low priced restaurants and eateries. In the Centro area you can find many Chinese buffet restaurants offering inexpensive, quick meals. ====Centro Histórico==== {{marker | type=eat | name= Mercado Libertad| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6755436| long= -103.3401238| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | content=}} – The food court is a good place to sample the variety of local specialties. You can go eat here multiple times, as there is a big variety of cooked meals. You can also find Chinese and Japanese dishes. The majority of the food stalls has price tags. Most vendors let you walk through the food court without disturbing you. The prices are low. It's open daily from 8:00-20:00. * '''Birria''' is a savory stew made of roast chiles, spices and traditionally goat meat, though you will usually be given other meat options like mutton or beef depending on the restaurant. For birria, the restaurants in the Nueve Esquinas area (a few blocks south of Templo San Francisco) are popular and reliably good. * '''Tortas ahogadas''' (literally "drowned sandwiches") are elongated sandwiches on ''birote'' bread, akin to submarines or po' boys, smothered in a savory chile and tomato sauce. Numerous restaurants in the Centro Histórico specialize in these. * '''Pozole''' is a hearty soup of pork and hominy topped with fresh cabbage, radish, onion and cilantro. There are some very good pozole stands in the food court of the Mercado Libertad. * '''Mollete'''. Popular for breakfast among locals, this is a French-style roll split and covered with refried beans, then topped with ham or chorizo and cheese and toasted. * '''Tamales''' consist of pockets of ''masa'' (a starchy dough of corn flour) filled with ''mole'' (a sauce or gravy made from any of an infinite combination of chili peppers, spices, and chocolate) and the choice of chicken or pork. Most people make tamales for holidays such as Christmas, the [[Day of the Dead|Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)]], Independence Day, or New Year's Day. * '''Enchiladas''' are a corn or flour tortilla rolled around and filled with meat, cheese, vegetables and/or potatoes and covered with spicy chile sauce, dressed variously in sour cream and/or cheese. ====Colonia Americana==== * {{eat | name=El Vegano Urbano | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Juan Cumplido 14, Col Americana | lat=20.676445 | long=-103.358445 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 19:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2024-09-24 | content=It looks and tastes like actual meat, but it's vegan. Served are delicious tacos for M$15, gringas, hamburgers and more. Tasty sauces that you can add by yourself. }} * {{eat | name= Taquería Reforma | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Escorza 50, Col Americana | lat= 20.6757604| long=-103.3586169| directions= | phone=+52 33 1201 9369 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 11:00 - 22:00 | price= | wikipedia= | image= | lastedit=2024-09-24 | content= It's a simple traditional eatery. The meat is fried right which means it's without burnt black meat. They serve daily 10:30-22:30. You get very good tasting taco bistek or pastor (M$11), taco size quesadilla (M$11), sopes (M$20), or hamburguesa (M$30). }} * {{eat | name=Taco's Pepes | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.673767 | long=-103.370283 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-F 07:30-16:00, Sa 07:30-15:00 | price=Tacos for M$12-14, Gringas vampiros for M$25 | lastedit=2021-11-01 | content=They have a big variety of tasty meat and sauces. }} ====In multiple locations==== * {{eat | name= Sticks Pedro Moreno| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6752899| long= -103.3700324| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= In the Americana neighborhood. In the west of the Zona Centro is the {{marker | type=eat | name= Sticks Parque Rojo| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6743714| long= -103.3565024}} and there is the {{marker | type=eat | name= Sticks Centro Histórico| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6807290| long= -103.3460733}} You get tasty:{{ili|Japanese fried rice yakimeshi with chicken or beef for M$25-46}}{{ili|a rather small portion of pasta for M$39-43}}{{ili|a stick with cheese and salami, plantain, ham, shrimps or surimi for M$16-18}}{{ili|a sushi roll for M$39-57.}}}} ===Mid-range=== ====Centro Histórico==== * {{eat | name=Birrería Las Nueve Esquinas | url=http://www.las9esquinas.com | email= | address=Cristóbal Colón 384, Zona Centro | lat=20.67067 | long=-103.34847 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 6260 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:00-22:00, Su 09:00-19:30 | price= | content=Well known for its lamb birria, a specialty of Jalisco, this popular place is in an old part of the Centro Histórico called "Las Nueve Esquinas" (Nine Corners), for its unusual street layout. }} * {{eat | name=La Chata | url=http://www.lachata.com.mx | email= | address=Corona 126, Zona Centro | lat=20.67469 | long=-103.34665 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 1315 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:30-00:00 | price= | content=Very popular and very crowded. Traditional food the way mom used to make it, or so they say. The prices are higher here than in other places serving the same fare—but still pretty reasonable. }} ====West of the Centro Histórico==== * {{eat | name=Chop | alt= | url=http://chai.com.mx/ | email= | address=México 2328, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.67946 | long=-103.37558 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 3557 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-Th 08:00-00:00, F Sa 08:00-01:00 | price= | content=Lovely deli midway between Chapultepec and Minerva and owned by a local chain of coffeehouses. Salads, sandwiches and wraps, paninis, calzone and pizza are on the menu, as well as a large selection of breakfasts served daily. Kids' menu. }} * {{eat | name=Kamilos 333 | url=http://www.kamilos333.com | email= | address=José Clemente Orozco 333, Santa Teresita | lat=20.68151 | long=-103.36633 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 7869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 08:00-01:00 | price= | content=Unpretentious, traditional Mexican fare reigns supreme here—Kamilos' menu goes heavy on meat dishes, which are juicy and delicious. Breakfast served daily. Those who don't speak Spanish well may have trouble with the (intentionally) misspelled words on the menu—"camarones" becomes "kamaronez", "quesadilla" is rendered "kezadya", etc. }} * {{eat | name=Tacos Providencia | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/TacosProvidencia/ | email= | address=Rubén Darío 534, Lomas de Guevara | lat=20.68529 | long=-103.38500 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3641 6049 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The tacos this place serves up—particularly the tacos al pastor, the specialty here—have been described as the best in Guadalajara. Quesadillas are also served. }} ====Colonia Americana==== * {{eat | name=Goa... Un Sabor de la India | alt= | url=http://www.goa.com.mx/ | email= | address=López Cotilla 1520, Americana | lat=20.67396 | long=-103.36985 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3615 6173 | tollfree= | hours=M 16:00-22:00, Tu-Sa 13:00-00:00, Su 13:00-19:00 | price= | content=A restaurant specializing in North Indian cuisine served in a lovely and exotic environment. }} ====Tlaquepaque==== * {{eat | name=El Parián | alt= | url=http://business.google.com/website/el-parian/ | email= | address=Corner of Calles Juárez and Progreso, Tlaquepaque Centro | lat=20.63883 | long=-103.31104 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This central square of Tlaquepaque's historic downtown boasts several restaurants with a bandstand in the center. It's a nice place to sit and have a drink or enjoy a meal, with numerous mariachis who will play for you for a small fee and also public performances that begin at 21:30. Gourmets will appreciate the recommendation of El Parian in the 2024 Michelin Guide. }} * {{eat | name=TlaquePasta | url=http://www.quintadonjose.com/tlaquepasta | email= | address=Reforma 139, Tlaquepaque Centro | lat=20.63743 | long=-103.31225 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635 7522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 17:00-22:00, F-Su 14:00-22:00 | price= | content=It's in the '''Quinta Don José Boutique Hotel''', and offers a nice mix of cuisines, with traditional Tapatío dishes rubbing shoulders on the menu with the only Italian specialties available in Tlaquepaque. Great tasting food, attractive setting, and reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=Real San Pedro | url=http://realsanpedro.mx/ | address=Calle Independencia 163, Tlaquepaque Centro | lat=20.639430105392574 | long=-103.31299019533435 | phone=+52 333 659 3631 | hours=Daily 08:00 - 22:00 | price=M$200 | content=Elegant dining room in an historic casona. Food is traditional regional cuisine with moles, enchiladas and more. Extensive tequila list and wine list, as well as mezcals, including some raicillas (a type of mezcal endemic to Jalisco). }} === Splurge === ====Colonia Americana==== * {{eat | name=El Sacromonte | url=http://www.sacromonte.com.mx | email= | address=Pedro Moreno 1398, Americana | lat=20.67574 | long=-103.36609 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 5447 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 13:30-00:00, Su 13:30-18:00 | price= | content= The food here is traditional Mexican served a little more artfully for a more well-off clientele. Subdued, violin-centered mariachis play here in the early afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Suehiro | url=http://www.suehiro.com.mx | email= | address=La Paz 1701, Americana | lat=20.67093 | long=-103.36298 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3826 0094 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 13:30-17:30 and 19:30-23:30, Su 13:00-19:00 | price= | content=Laid-back Japanese restaurant whose gargantuan menu encompasses excellently prepared cuisine in the teppanyaki, nabemono, and tempura cooking styles, as well as a huge selection of sushi and sashimi. Quality and service are beyond compare. Outside is a beautifully landscaped garden complete with koi pond. }} * {{eat | name=Bruna | url= | address=Calle Miguel Lerdo de Tejada 2418 | lat=20.671143629267135 | long=-103.3779290599571 | phone=+52 332 003 0904 | hours=Daily 14:00 - 00:00 | price=M$300 | lastedit=2025-01-28 | content=Contemporary upscale restaurant serving nouveau Mexican cuisine in an elegant dining room overlooking a [[Sculpture|sculpture garden]] that is part of the art gallery housed in the same building. Reservations suggested as this is one of the city's top restaurants. }} * {{eat | name=Santo Coyote | url=https://www.santocoyote.com.mx/ | address= | lat=20.67079229416486 | long=-103.37704929547432 | phone=+52 333 343 2265 | hours=Daily 08:00 - 00:00 | price=M$350 | lastedit=2025-01-28 | content=Elaborate upscale restaurant that re-creates a jungle atmosphere with multiple small dining rooms. The menu is nouveau Mexican with frequent forays into traditionally local flavors of pre-Hispanic cultures. Almost every dish has something wonderfully flavorful but often unknown to foreign tourists, like epazote or huitlacoche. Drinks are equally innovative and most are based on local tequilas or mezcals. Listed in the 2024 Michelin Guide. }} * {{eat | name=Casa Bariachi | alt= | url=http://www.casa-bariachi.com/ | email= | address=Av. Ignacio Vallarta 2221 | lat=20.674601987790936 | long=-103.37829016148969 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3616 9900 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 13:00 - 03:00 | price=M$500 | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=Upscale restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine including grilled meats and regional specialties. Elegant dining room with live music provided by roving mariachis. }} ====West of Centro==== * {{eat | name=Il Duomo | url= | email= | address=de las Américas 302, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.68260 | long=-103.37331 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3615 4952 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 13:30-00:00 | price= | content=Creative Italian cuisine at reasonable prices including pastas, meat dishes and fine wines, served by polite and attentive (but not over-attentive) waitstaff. }} ====Zapopan==== * {{eat | name=Almacén del Bife | url=https://www.almacendelbife.com/ | email= | address=Plaza Andares 4965, Puerta de Hierro, Zapopan | lat=20.71014 | long=-103.41254 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3611 2668 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 13:00-00:00 | price=M$120-800 | content="Beer and wine, our passion" (in translation) is the motto of this Argentinian restaurant in Plaza Andares. In addition, a wide selection of chicken dishes, pastas and a daily seafood special are offered. }} * {{eat | name=Fonda Doña Gabina Escolástica | url= | address=Javier Mina 237, Centro, Zapopan | lat=20.7201585184255 | long=-103.38938190391251 | phone=+52 333 833 0883 | hours=Daily 14:00 - 22:30 | price=M$200 | lastedit=2024-12-24 | content=Traditional regional Mexican restaurant. Recommended by the Michelin Guide whose editors particularly recommend the tostada de pata. Other house specialties include pozole and enchiladas. Large portions, affordable prices. }} ==Drink== Guadalajara has a vibrant nightlife that's spread out all over the city, from the touristy places in the Centro Histórico ('''Plaza de la Liberación''' is a good place to start your search) to the college bars in Zapopan. However, the most active bar district in Guadalajara is in '''Colonia Americana''' centered along '''Avenida Chapultepec''' between Hidalgo and Niños Héroes, about 2 km west of the Centro Histórico. This is the place where GDL's hipster crowd makes the scene, with bar after bar lining the sides of the streets. Many of these places double as popular live music venues. A good suggestion is to search out a bar with a large collection of tequilas and taste a great blanca, reposada and añejo. If you ask for a traditional tequila from Los Altos, you will almost certainly get something good. Los Altos is the region northeast of Guadalajara where the best tequila in the world is made, bringing up images of tradition, patriotism and individualism. ===Centro Histórico=== * {{drink | name=Los Famosos Equipales | url= | email= | address=Juan Álvarez 704, Zona Centro | lat=20.684543 | long=-103.352330 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614 1500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 10:00-00:00, F Sa 22:00-02:30 | price= | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=One of its famous drinks here is named "Las Nalgas Alegres" (Happy Buttocks), which is a delicious pink-colored but deceptively strong concoction. A jukebox plays music constantly, and snacks are available too. }} ===Colonia Americana=== *{{drink | name=El Primer Piso | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Primer-Piso-Bar-120550884698378/ | email= | address=Pedro Moreno 947, Americana | lat=20.675488 | long=-103.358393 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 7085 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 19:30-01:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=A lively and fun jazz bar with good music, good food and a red upholstered ceiling are trademarks. }} *{{drink | name=Cerveceria Loba | url=http://www.cervezaloba.com/ | address=C. Gregorio Dávila 76, Col Americana | lat=20.67807888378071 | long=-103.36119656775809 | phone=+52 332 035 6401 | hours=M-Sa 14:00 - 01:00, closed Su | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Taproom and craft brewery producing several styles of both ales and lagers with stouts, IPAs, goses, and more. }} * {{drink | name=Bar Américas | url=http://baramericas.com.mx/ | address=Av. Chapultepec Sur 507, Col Americana | lat=20.668393366451735 | long=-103.36828002913566 | phone=+52 333 060 3773 | hours=Th-M 12:00 - 07:00, W 20:00 - 00:00 | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Popular techno nightclub that doesn't really get rolling until after 2am. Young, trendy crowd. }} * {{drink | name=Salón del Bosque | alt= | url=http://saloondelbosque.com/ | email= | address=José Guadalupe Zuno 2200, Col. Americana | lat=20.67076 | long=-103.37232 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3616 4297 | tollfree= | hours=M Tu Sa 13:00-23:00, W-F 13:00-01:00 | price= | content=Upscale, laid-back atmosphere featuring live jazz and bossa nova. }} * {{drink | name=Hudson Bar | url= | address=C. Miguel Lerdo de Tejada 2055, Col Americana | lat=20.671295374770683 | long=-103.36987383693541 | phone=+523336152054 | hours=Tu-Th 13:00 - 01:00, F-Sa 13:00 - 02:30, closed Su | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Cool, old-school style bar with live music and a rooftop bar. }} * {{drink | name=Urban Live | url=http://www.theurbanlive.com/ | address=Esq. con Libertad, Av. Chapultepec Sur 177-2do piso, Col Americana | lat=20.673503746071777 | long=-103.3682215961734 | phone=+52 331 328 8482 | hours=F-Sa 20:30 - 03:00, closed Su-Th | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Lively club playing with live bands playing rock in both English and Spanish. }} ===Chapultepec, Zona Rosa and Minerva=== * {{drink | name=Barba Negra | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Barbanegra1988/ | email= | address=Justo Sierra 2194-A, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.67782 | long=-103.37233 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3808 8650 | tollfree= | hours=W Th 13:00-02:00, F 13:00-03:00, Sa 19:30-03:00 | price= | content=Features live rock music. }} * {{drink | name=Grand Fiesta Americana Guadalajara Country Club | alt= | url=https://www.grandfiestamericana.com/grand-fiesta-americana-guadalajara-country-club | email= | address=Av. de las Américas 1551, Providencia | lat=20.70293 | long=-103.37655 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3648 3535 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-12-01 | content=Try the rooftop bar here if you feel like something unique. }} ===Zapopan=== * {{drink | name=Mayas Bar | alt= | url=https://mayas-bar.business.site/ | email= | address=Prol. 20 De Noviembre 351, Zapopan | lat=20.72016 | long=-103.38803 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3633 4684 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10ː00-01ː00, Sa Su 10ː00-03ː00 | price= | content=This laid-back place in downtown Zapopan features food, drink and occasional live music. }} ==Sleep== If you plan to spend much time downtown, don't get a hotel farther away—it's much more convenient to be within walking distance of your daytime activities. ===Budget === There are many inexpensive hotels available in the city center, especially around the old bus station ''(Central Vieja / Antigua)''. ====in the Centro Histórico and around:==== *{{sleep | name=Hostel Hospedarte Guadalajara Centro | url=http://www.hostelguadalajara.com | email= | address=Maestranza 147, Zona Centro | lat=20.67447 | long=-103.34557 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3562 7520 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content=This youth hostel is in a stately National Heritage building from the 19th century. Reading room, common area with TV, free wireless Internet. Organized tours to [[Tequila]] leave regularly from the hostel, including two distilleries. }} ====in Colonia Americana:==== * {{sleep | name=Hostal Casa Colores | alt= | url=https://casacoloreshostal.mxhotel.site/en/ | email= | address=Calle Efraín González Luna 1844, Col Americana | lat=20.66995 | long=-103.36537 | directions= | phone=+52 33 2688 8523 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$300 | lastedit=2025-02-05 | content=Has sun deck, garden, movie nights, shared kitchen, walking tours, bar crawls, a library, and wifi. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostel Hospedarte Chapultepec | alt= | url=http://hospedartehostels.com/ | email= | address=Calle Efraín González Luna 2075, Col Americana | lat=20.66969 | long=-103.37026 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3615 4957 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$340 | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-05 | content=The counterpart to the downtown Hostel Hospedarte; if you stay at this one, you'll be close to the Chapultepec venues. This hostel includes a free breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Bohostel | url=http://www.bohostel.mx/ | address=Calle Efraín González Luna 2097, Col Americana | lat=20.670188145321415 | long=-103.37019301230436 | phone=+52 33 2832 2469 | checkin=14:00 | checkout=11:00 | price=M$400 | lastedit=2025-02-01 | content=Clean, comfortable rooms in a friendly atmosphere. Rooftop lounge area and a cafe on the ground floor. Has private rooms but bathrooms are shared. Mature clientele. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Irake | url=https://www.casairake.com/ | address=Calle Francisco I. Madero 1038, Col Americana | lat=20.673962460611225 | long=-103.36195326629003 | phone=+52 33 1902 1140 | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$700 | lastedit=2025-02-01 | content=Attractively decorated home with comfortable private rooms as well as beds in a dorm with shared bath. Common areas include a rooftop terrace. }} ====around the Old Bus Station (Antigua) south of the Centro Histórico:==== The stated prices here are as of December 2021 for two persons per night and only when reserved directly at the hotel. All listed hotel rooms are with private bathroom, hot water and without A/C. Be mindful of security as this neighborhood is sketchy at the best of times. * {{sleep | name=Hotel Costa Brava| url= | email= | address= Calz Independencia Sur 739| lat= 20.6642820 | long= -103.3475740 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$320 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Flamingos| url= | email= | address= Calz Independencia Sur 725| lat= 20.6644787| long= -103.3474278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$350 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Canada| url= | email= | address= Av. Miguel Alemán 911| lat=20.6630476 | long= -103.3464129| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$320 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Susy| url= | email= | address= C. Analco 791, Las Conchas| lat=20.6613582 | long= -103.3426719| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$250 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Hotel Royal| url= | email= | address=C. Los Ángeles 115-B| lat= 20.6634199| long=-103.3455653| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$275 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Union| url= | email= | address=Av. Dr. Roberto Michel 218| lat= 20.6631966| long= -103.3458671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$270 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} ===Mid-Range=== ====in the Centro Histórico and around:==== * {{sleep | name=Real Maestranza Hotel | alt= | url=https://realmaestranzahotel.com/index.html | email= | address=Calle Francisco I. Madero 161 | lat=20.67357 | long=-103.34564 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 6101 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=around M$1,000 | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-12-02 | content=A boutique hotel with some old world charm such as interior murals and arches. It has a breakfast buffet and restaurant and bar. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel de Mendoza | url=http://www.demendoza.com.mx | email= | address=Venustiano Carranza 16, Zona Centro | lat=20.67796 | long=-103.34434 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3942 5151 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=around M$1,000 (Dec 2021) | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | content=At the Hotel de Mendoza, guests can stay in a peaceful, airy ambience within walking distance of all Centro Histórico destinations. Rooms (including suites) include free WiFi, 32-inch flat screen TVs, and charming colonial decor; the hotel also has a business center, gym, restaurant and outdoor pool. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel San Francisco Plaza | url=http://www.sanfranciscohotel.com.mx | email= | address=Degollado 267, Zona Centro | lat=20.67264 | long=-103.34526 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 3256 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=around M$900(Dec 2021) | checkin=12:00 | checkout=14:00 | content= In operation since 1986, this colonial-style hotel is a few blocks from the storied Teatro Degollado and is centered on two covered courtyards. There are some awful rooms, so it's worth talking to the person you reserve with to see what it will cost to get a room on one of the courtyards, on an upper floor, and away from the north side of the building where there is quite a bit of traffic. Merced is a good guy to talk with about this or anything else. Although he denies being "el jefe", he seems to be in charge. Air conditioning, full baths, free WiFi. Suites available. Personal laundry available for a small fee. Breakfasts at the hotel restaurant ("Don Quijote") are very good. Beatriz, the usual morning waitress, is a bundle of sunshine. }} ====in Minerva, Chapultepec, Zapopan and west of the Centro Histórico:==== * {{sleep | name=Fiesta Americana | alt= | url=https://www.fiestamericana.com/en/hotels-resorts/fiesta-americana-guadalajara | email= | address=Av, Calle Aurelio Aceves No. 225, Vallarta Poniente | lat=20.67361 | long=-103.38916 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3818 1400 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | price= | content=The Fiesta Americana is in a quiet yet hip residential area in the shadow of the Glorieta de la Minerva monument. Its lively nightclub attracts its share of hip young locals. It's a business hotel, minutes from the World Trade Center Guadalajara and has the city's second-largest convention center. Each room has a coffeemaker, minibar, and cable television, with deluxe rooms also have individual sofas with footrests and phones. Business center and room service operate 24 hours a day. The hotel offers a fitness center, laundry, dry cleaning and ironing service, gift shop, currency exchange, concierge, restaurant, airport shuttle.. There's free high-speed wireless Internet all over the property. Parking comes with complimentary valet service. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel NH Guadalajara | url=http://www.nh-hotels.com/nh/en/hotels/mexico/guadalajara/nh-guadalajara.html | email= | address=Sao Paulo 2334, Providencia | lat=20.70173 | long=-103.37709 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3648 9500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$1083/night | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | content=A luxury business hotel next to Country Club Guadalajara in the heart of one of the city's financial districts, this high-rise hotel has 137 guest rooms with contemporary decor, amenities, and, in many cases, views over the city. Free WiFi, fitness center, restaurant ("Nhube") and garden bar, conference center, concierge services and complimentary shoeshine. Suites available. }} * {{sleep | name=IbeuroHotel | alt= | url=http://www.ibeurohotel.com.mx | email= | address=Mariano Otero 3235, Fraccionamiento Valle Verde | lat=20.65376 | long=-103.39316 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3134 3230 | tollfree= | checkin=13:00 | checkout=12:30 | price=around M$700 (Dec 2021) | content=Decent prices here, but you get what you pay for. For a large business hotel—one directly next to the Expo Guadalajara convention center, no less—this place skimps on the amenities. Still, the rooms are clean and all the basics are covered: color television, air conditioning, telephone, free wireless Internet, laundry and dry cleaning. Adequate if unimpressive food is served in the cafeteria. Private covered parking lot. }} * {{sleep | name=La Mansión del Sol | url=http://www.lamansiondelsol.com/ | email= | address=Moctezuma 1596, Ciudad del Sol, Zapopan | lat=20.65110 | long=-103.40840 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3647 4762 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=around M$1,000 (Dec 2021) | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | content="Modern yet unmistakably Mexican" is a good way to describe the decor of this luxury boutique hotel in Zapopan. Manicured exterior with sitting areas, a fountain, palm trees and ubiquitous hummingbirds surround this lovely property whose airy rooms boast all the modern amenities: 32" LCD flat-screen TV's, CD stereo system, alarm clock, hair dryer, workspace, free wireless Internet, ironing board, and dessert minibars. Other amenities include an on-site bar and restaurant ("Los Colibríes"), laundry and dry-cleaning service, sauna and steam room, business center, gym, complimentary continental breakfast, and room service. }} * {{sleep | name=Del Marqués Hotel and Suites | alt= | url=http://delmarques.com/ | email= | address=Victoriano Salado Álvarez 72, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.6772 | long=-103.38117 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 3048 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=around M$700 (Dec 2021) | content=An all-suite property near the charming Minerva district. The living areas, kitchenettes, and work areas all have modern decor and amenities such as air conditioning and free WiFi. Some suites also have full kitchens. There's also a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Villa Ganz | url=http://en.villaganz.com | email= | address=Calle Manuel López Cotilla 1739, Col Americana | lat=20.67355| long=-103.37223 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3120 1416 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$1062/night | checkin= | checkout= | content=In the heart of the Zona Rosa. A 1930s mansion-turned-boutique hotel. Villa Ganz's ten suites are named after Jalisciense author Juan Rolfo's literary creations. Amenities include air conditioning, cable TV, hair dryers, and free WiFi, antique furnishings and decor, custom-designed toiletries, designer bathrobes and slippers, bedding and duvets containing imported goose, bookcases containing a wide-ranging selection of literature, and elegant French doors looking out either onto the peaceful garden or lively Avenida López Cotilla. A concierge is on staff. Guests at Villa Ganz also receive complimentary access to the Kristal Century gym, one block away from the hotel—this includes yoga, Pilates, and dance classes. Complimentary breakfast is served, as well as wine and appetizers in the evening. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Velvet Plaza | alt= | url=http://hotelvelvetplaza.com/ | email= | address=Av. Ignacio L. Vallarta 2477, Arcos Vallarta | lat=20.67427 | long=-103.38209 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3882 4500 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=M$842 | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-01 | content=Rooftop pool for relaxing and city views and a restaurant that serves breakfast are some of the perks at this mid-city hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Venezuela | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Venezuela 459, Col Americana | lat=20.66989 | long=-103.36301 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3826 6590 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | content=This charming B&B a few blocks off hip Avenida Chapultepec has three rooms decorated in Old Mexico style. Guest rooms have hair dryers, and TVs with DVD player. The breakfast offers American and Mexican specialties served on locally-produced crockery. Complimentary cocktails are served on the terrace each evening. The American-born owner, George, has an encyclopedic knowledge about everything Guadalajara and the surrounding vicinity have to offer. }} ====in Tlaquepaque and east of the Centro Histórico:==== *{{sleep | name=Hotel La Calandria | alt= | url=http://www.lascalandrias.com.mx/ | email= | address=Estadio 100, Las Conchas | lat=20.66270 | long=-103.34597 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3619 6579 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=What this hotel lacks in luxury, it more than makes up for in old-Mexico charm. A very clean and generally very nice property for very reasonable prices. Bilingual staff, WiFi available in public areas. It's a short distance south of the Centro Histórico, near Parque Agua Azul and the old bus station, where buses leave regularly for popular regional destinations such as Cocula and Tequila. On-street parking, but there are many free parking lots available (including Walmart, which is also nearby). }} * {{sleep | name=Quinta Don José | url=http://www.quintadonjose.com | email= | address=Reforma 139, Tlaquepaque Centro, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.63745 | long=-103.31222 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635 7522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | content=Charming 19-room boutique hotel in the heart of Old Tlaquepaque. Amenities include high-speed WiFi, cable TV, air conditioning, complimentary continental breakfast (a full breakfast featuring traditional Mexican favorites is also available for an extra fee), an onsite tequila bar and restaurant ('''TlaquePasta'''). Landscaped exterior, tiled pool, manicured gardens, and a leafy terrace. Airy, sun-drenched rooms decorated with Old Mexican traditionalism and contemporary simplicity. The hotel organizes group tours of the artisan workshops that have made Tlaquepaque famous, and excursions to the Laguna de Chapala, Guachimontones, Tequila, and downtown Guadalajara (20 minutes away by car). }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Quinta Real Guadalajara | alt= | url=https://www.grupocaminoreal.com/quinta-real-guadalajara | email= | address=Av. Mexico 2727 | lat=20.679503 | long=-103.385203 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3669 0600 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=M$2500 | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=Elegant, traditional hotel with classic [[Haciendas|hacienda]]-style design. Rooms are large, clean, and opulently furnished, including high-end toiletries and quality linens. An on-site restaurant serves an extensive breakfast buffet that includes fresh fruits, baked sweet breads, and made-to-order omelettes. }} ==Stay safe== Guadalajara is known as one of the safest cities in Mexico. Nonetheless, as in any large city, the usual precautions should be taken. Crimes against tourists and foreign students are quite infrequent and mostly take the form of purse-snatching. Criminals usually work in teams and target travelers in outdoor restaurants, bars and other busy places. Should anyone spill something on you, be alert to your surroundings and step away—accidental spills are a common method of distracting their marks. ''Never'' carry illegal substances with you; Mexican police are very strict regarding these cases. '''In case of emergency, dial 911''', the number for all emergencies (fire, police and medical) in Mexico. English-speaking operators are not guaranteed, but are often available. In an emergency, it's also a good idea to contact your embassy or consulate. For non-emergencies, dial 078 to reach the [[Driving in Mexico#Green Angels|Green Angels]], an English-speaking [[Automobile associations|roadside and travel assistance program]]. ===Drug cartels=== Like most of Mexico's Pacific coast states, regional drug cartels are known to operate in [[Jalisco]]. These cartels have strong incentives to keep money flowing at popular places, which requires peace and safety for visitors. In February 2026, a security operation against a Jalisco drug cartel sparked clashes throughout the region, including in tourist areas that have largely avoided attacks in the past. Vehicles and stores were looted, stolen and set on fire. From a traveler's perspective, this turned out to be more of a violent demonstration than a deadly attack, as there were no deaths reported other than security forces and suspected cartel members. Nonetheless, flights were cancelled and tourists were advised to shelter in place until the situation settled down over the next few days. Drug cartels commonly use arson to create chaos, especially by creating roadblocks that slow security response and grind a city to a halt. Keep your supply of treated drinking water topped off and keep around things to snack on, in case shops close or you're stuck in your hotel due to any number of possible natural or man-made disasters. ===Football=== Due to the intense rivalry between local club Chivas and [[Mexico City]]-based Club América, you should avoid wearing Club América jerseys in Guadalajara unless you want to risk getting singled out for harassment or worse by local fans. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== Most consulates are honorary which means they offer limited services to travelers and their nationals living in the area and usually available by appointment or in emergencies only. The nearest city for additional foreign consulates is in [[Mexico City#Embassies|Mexico City]]: * {{flag|Canada}} {{listing | name=Canada | alt= | url=https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/mexico-mexique/guadalajara.aspx?lang=eng| email= | address=World Trade Center, Av. Mariano Otero 1249, Torre Pacifico Piso 8, Col. Rinconada del Bosque, C.P. 44530 Guadalajara| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +52 33 1818-4200 | fax= +52 33 1818-4210 | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-24 | content=Call collect +1 613 996 8885 for emergencies only. }} * {{flag|Colombia}} {{listing | name=Colombia | alt= | url=https://guadalajara.consulado.gov.co/ | email= | address=Ave Acueducto 4851, Piso 10, Interior 2 y 4, Edificio Corporativo Acueducto | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 4737-5700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-25 | content=+52 33 1990-4857 for emergencies only. }} * {{flag|El Salvador}} {{listing | name=El Salvador| alt= | url=https://rree.gob.sv/servicios-consulares/| email= | address=Galeria Exhimoda Av. Ignacio L. Vallarta 3233, local 12-F, C.P. 44110 Guadalajara | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3685-9415 | tollfree=800-747-6117 | hours=M-F 09:00-17:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-24 | content=Click this [https://portalcitas.rree.gob.sv/ link] to make an online appointment }} * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany (Honorary) | alt= | url=https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/about-us/auslandsvertretungen/740206-740206 | email= | address=Calle 7 No. 319, Colonia Ferrocarril, C.P. 44440 Guadalajara. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3810-2146| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-25 | content= }} * {{flag|Guatemala}} {{listing | name=Guatemala | alt= | url=https://www.minex.gob.gt/din/2953-consulado-honorario-de-guatemala-en-guadalajara | email=cruza@prodigy.net.mx. | address=Mango 1440-A, Colonia del Fresno, C.P. 44500, Guadalajara | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3811 1503 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 09:00-14:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-24 | content=Look them on [https://www.facebook.com/EmbaGuateMexico/ Facebook] }} * {{flag|Netherlands}} {{listing | name=Netherlands (Honorary) | alt= | url=https://www.netherlandsandyou.nl/web/mexico-en/about-us/honorary-consul-guadalajara | email= | address=Calle Ottawa 1360, Col Providencia, C.P. 44630 Guadalajara | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 4545-8115 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-25 | content= }} * {{flag|Spain}} {{listing | name=Spain | url=https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Consulados/guadalajara/ | email= | address=Avenida Pablo Neruda No. 2710, 5 piso, Edificio ALTUS. Colonia Providencia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 0450 | tollfree= | fax=+52 33 3616 0396 | hours=M-F 09ː00 - 13ː00, closed Sa-Su | price= | content=The consulate provides a range of services to Spanish citizens traveling or living in Mexico, including birth certificates, travel documents, and official government records. Visa or permit services are also available to Mexicans and other foreigners traveling to or doing business in Spain. Persons with other official business can contact the embassy in [[Mexico City]].) }} * {{flag|Romania}} {{listing | name=Romania (Honorary) | url=https://mae.ro/romanian-missions/3395#861 | email=consulrumania@grupocube.com | address=Torre Cube, Blvd. Puerta de Hierro 5210 Piso 12 –C, Colonia Puerta de Hierro, Zapopan | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 334 35 100, + 52 33 334 35 200 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Honorary Consulate (Does not provide consular services. Instead, Romanian citizens in need of assistance should contact the embassy in [[Mexico City]].) }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States | url=https://mx.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/guadalajara/ | email=usconsulategdl@megared.net.mx; acsgdl@state.gov | address=Progreso 175, Americana | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3268 2100 | tollfree= | fax=+52 33 3826 6549 | hours=M-Th 09:00-13:00 | price= | content= }} == Go next == Your next destination for staying can be...: ===To the east=== *'''[[Guanajuato]]''' – 275 km. A beautiful mountain colonial town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A variety of mines are there to be visited. In the evening you can join traditionally dressed Mexicans singing and walking through the old-town. *'''[[San Miguel de Allende]]''' – 340 km. A city known for relaxing. There are thermal pools just outside the city. The old town is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. *'''[[Querétaro]]''' – 360 km. Capital of the state Quéretaro. A big aqueduct goes through the city. You can taste a Gordita Queretana. The old town is – you guess it – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ===To the north-east=== *'''[[San Juan de los Lagos]]''' – 145 km. The second-most visited pilgrimage site in Mexico (after the Basílica de Guadalupe in Mexico City). *'''[[San Luis Potosí]]''' – 330 km. The capital of the state of San Luis Potosí. The historic center displays a great mixture of different artistic styles and is a major example of colonial architecture in Mexico. The historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ===To the west=== *'''[[Puerto Vallarta]]''' – 330 km. Nearby are the coastal villages [[Bucerias]], [[Sayulita]] and [[San Francisco (Mexico)]] ===To the north-west=== *'''[[Tepic]]''' – 205 km. The capital of Nayarit *'''[[Mazatlan]]''' – It's recommended to take a flight into and out of the city. ===By air=== Guadalajara has low-cost flights for example to: *'''[[Cabo San Lucas]]''' and '''[[La Paz (Mexico)|La Paz]]''' on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. * '''[[Oaxaca (city)|Oaxaca]]''' * '''[[Tuxtla Gutiérrez|Tuxtla]]''' in Chiapas * '''[[Puerto Vallarta]]''' and '''[[Puerto Escondido]]''' at the Pacific coast * '''[[Cancún]]''' and '''[[Mérida (Mexico)|Mérida]]''' on the Yucatan peninsula * '''[[Mexico City]]''' {{routebox | image1=Carretera federal 15.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Tepic]] | minorl1=[[Tequila]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Zamora de Hidalgo]] | minorr1=[[San Luis Soyatlán]] }} {{isPartOf|Jalisco}} {{guidecity}} {{geo|20.666667|-103.35}} nqbsttnmn4aa9cndci8ohwjrgk1vevu 5288902 5288895 2026-06-06T16:37:49Z Mrkstvns 144844 /* Outdoor activities */ - add info on Barranca de Huentitan 5288902 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Guadalajara banner.jpg|dotm=yes|unesco_whs=yes|unesco_ich=yes}} [[File:Guadalajara´s Cathedral, Jalisco, Mexico.jpg|thumb|275px|Guadalajara Cathedral viewed from north side of Plaza de Guadalajara]] '''Guadalajara''' is the capital of the central state of [[Jalisco]] in [[Mexico]], and the second-largest city in the country, with about a million and a half citizens (known as "Tapatíos"). It is considered a colonial city, though much of its architecture dates from the independence period. Although it has a far more relaxed feel than [[Mexico City]], the city center can still seem a bit stuffy and dusty, especially during rush hour when the sun is out. All in all, however, it is a lovely city and contains many nice areas for walking, not just in the center. === Welcome World Cup fans === Guadalajara is one of the 16 North American cities that will host soccer matches for the [[2026 FIFA World Cup]]. Games scheduled for Guadalajara will be played in '''Estadio Akron''' in the northern suburb of '''Zapopan'''. Here are a few tips for football fansː * Akron Stadium is 31 km from Guadalajara International Airport, an airport taxi will take 40-60 minutes to get to Zapopan, depending on traffic * the '''closest hotels''' are in Zapopan, and although Google Maps shows some within 0.5 km of the stadium, they are actually a 4 km walk (or drive) because there is no direct road between the hotels and the stadium. These will still be the most conveniently located hotels for fans with game tickets. Close hotels include '''SR Hotel''', '''One Guadalajara Periférico Poniente''', and '''Holiday Inn Express Guadalajara Vallarte Poniente'''. * the '''best way to get to the stadium''' will probably be '''Uber''' because there are several busy streets and a complex major highway interchange near the stadium that make the area unfriendly to pedestrians. Plan to get dropped off or picked up away from the stadium as there will be no designated drop off and pickup zone. Public transit is an excellent optionː use the MiMacro bus-rapid-transit (BRT), Line 7 to '''Estadio Chivas'''. The station is about a 1.5 km walk to the stadium. If you plan to drive, the city has set up 10 designated satellite parking areas with shuttle buses to the stadium. These parking lots require pre-registration, cost M$500 (US$25). Registration and info is [https://boletomovil.com/guadalajara-fwc-2026 on the web page]. * the '''best neighborhood''' for upscale '''restaurants''' and fun '''nightclubs''' is Americano. There are also several good hotels in this highly walkable neighborhood * the city has an extensive '''public transit''' system that is cheap and reliable. It consists of a subway/light rail system called ''MiTren'', a bus-rapid transit system (BRT) called ''MiMacro'' and buses called ''MiBus'' serving local neighborhoods. You can get to most parts of the city with these services, though '''Uber''' is always a convenient and safe option for getting around ==Understand== {{climate chart |Guadalajara |10.6 |24.1 |16.3 |11.9 |26.2 |11.0 |13.5 |28.5 |8.3 |15.6 |30.5 |3.8 |17.2 |31.9 |26.3 |17.2 |30.1 |183.8 |16.2 |27.4 |271.3 |16.3 |27.2 |220.5 |16.4 |26.7 |193.7 |15.3 |26.7 |58.8 |12.9 |25.6 |12.3 |11.1 |24.3 |7.4 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Guadalajara]] |description= }} Guadalajara is Mexico's second largest city, and one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the country. This growth has been driven in part by the booming electronics industry in the industrial outskirts of the city. Other important and growing industries are pharmaceuticals, food processing, and fashion. ===Orientation=== [[Image:MorelosStreetGDLMX.JPG|thumb|Calle de Morelos]] Guadalajara proper is divided into four districts corresponding approximately to the northwest, northeast, southwest, and southeast quarters of the city. At the center of everything is the main area of interest to tourists, the '''Centro Histórico''', or the historic downtown. Most of your time will probably be spent here. It is filled with colonial-era buildings and, famously, also boasts several important [[Mexican muralism|mural paintings]] by Jalisco-born José Clemente Orozco, one of Mexico's most important artists and one of the "Big Three" artists of the muralism period. Outside the Centro Histórico are: * '''Sector Hidalgo'''— in northwest of the Centro Histórico, Hidalgo is a largely residential sector encompassing the financial district and the '''[http://www.gcc.com.mx/ Country Club Guadalajara]'''. * '''Sector Libertad'''— northeast of the Centro Histórico, Sector Libertad is mostly given over to industrial use. However, the southwest part of the sector, close to the Centro Histórico, boasts a traditional market ('''Mercado Libertad''') and the '''Plaza de los Mariachis'''. * '''Sector Juárez'''— southwest of the Centro Histórico, Sector Juárez is a shoppers' paradise: it boasts two shopping malls ('''Centro Magno''' and '''Galerias'''), as well as the popular '''Minerva''', '''Chapultepec''', and '''Zona Rosa''' shopping areas. * '''Sector Reforma'''— southeast of the Centro Histórico, Reforma is also a mostly industrial sector, but visitors will no doubt be interested in the pleasant, tree-filled '''Parque Agua Azul''', as well as the '''Tianguis Cultural de Guadalajara''', a street market where alternative clothing and articles such as spiked belts, black trenchcoats, military uniforms, used books and trading cards are for sale at good prices. [[File:Calles GDL.svg|Streets of Guadalajara|thumb|350px]] Still further from central Guadalajara are several suburbs (''municipios'') that are cities in their own right. Several of these are also of interest to visitors, including: *'''Tlaquepaque''' — about 30 minutes by car southeast of the Centro Histórico, downtown Tlaquepaque is a charming streetscape redolent of old Mexico. An important arts and crafts center, Tlaquepaque has a vibrant shopping district where you can buy local pottery and handicrafts, as well as many lovely restaurants, art galleries, and a regional ceramics museum. *'''Tonalá''' — immediately east of Tlaquepaque, Tonalá contains Guadalajara's main bus station, handicraft shops and markets, and the large '''Parque Solidaridad'''. *'''Zapopan''' — a large, busy suburb northwest of Guadalajara, is famous for the old-fashioned charm of its downtown, its active nightlife fueled by the three large private universities within the city limits ('''Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara''', '''Tecnológico de Monterrey''' and '''Universidad del Valle de Atemajac'''), its proliferation of modern shopping malls that will make American suburbanites feel right at home, and—by contrast—also large expanses of pristine nature, such as the '''Bosque de Colomos''' and the gargantuan '''Bosque La Primavera'''. The 275-diagonal bus route runs from Tlaquepaque through the Centro to Zapopan, providing convenient access to all of these outer districts. ===History=== The co-founders of Guadalajara were Doña Beatriz de Hernández and Governor Cristobal de Oñate. In the Plaza de los Fundadores there is a monument in honor of both of them. Guadalajara, and Jalisco in general, were the epicenter of the '''Cristero Wars''' (1926-1929) — a rebellion by Catholic guerrillas against the secularizing reforms of President Plutarco Calles. One of the first armed conflicts of the rebellion took place in Guadalajara in the '''Santuario de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe''' on August 3, 1926, where a group of several hundred Cristeros engaged in a shootout with federal troops. Guadalajara was attacked (unsuccessfully) by the Cristero armies in March 1929. In the 1950s, Avenida Juárez was widened to create today's arterial road of Juárez-Vallarta which you see today. A famous part of that work was the moving of the central telephone exchange without the disruption of service. Pictures of this feat of engineering can be seen in the '''City Museum''' ''(Museo de la Ciudad)''. In April 1992, Sector Reforma was rocked by a huge explosion of gasoline, when a gasoline pipeline leaked into the sewers over a period of days until the fumes finally detonated. Some 200 Tapatíos were killed and several thousand injured. The explosion affected mostly the working-class and industrial areas on the south side of the city. In May 1993, Cardinal Juan Jesús Posadas Ocampo of Guadalajara was killed at the Guadalajara airport. Though at the time the murder was thought to have been some sort of politically motivated assassination, subsequent investigations favor the theory that the cardinal was caught by mistake in drug-related violence, his motorcade having been mistaken for that of a drug lord. Cardinal Ocampo is buried beneath the high altar of the '''Catedral de Guadalajara''', probably because it was first suspected that the motives for his murder were political, rather than accidental. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de Guadalajara Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla | alt={{IATA|GDL}} | url=http://www.aeropuertosgap.com.mx/ | email= | address= | lat=20.521837 | long=-103.311145 | directions=south of city along the Guadalajara-Chapala Highway | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Guadalajara International Airport | wikidata=Q932025 | lastedit=2017-01-03 | content=Airlines serving GDL include [http://www.aeromexico.com AeroMexico], [http://www.alaskaair.com/ Alaska Airlines], [http://www.aa.com/ American Airlines], [http://www.copaair.com/ Copa Airlines], [http://www.delta.com/ Delta], [http://www.united.com United], [http://www.vivaaerobus.com VivaAerobus], and [http://www.volaris.mx Volaris].}} At the airport, always buy the taxi chit from the booth before exiting the terminal, then present it to the licensed driver. Many hotels offer airport pickups that can be cheaper. Uber drivers are not allowed to pick up passengers at the airport. A common way to get around this limitation is to walk outside the airport a few minutes away to the nearby UPS distribution center (labeled as "Centro de Envios UPS" on Google maps). Set your Uber pick up location at this UPS center, which is outside the airport's restrictions and a driver will pick you up there. The app Moovit finds a better bus connection from the airport to your accommodation than Google Maps (as of Dec 2021). The bus stops at the bottom of Terminal 1 and goes to the '''Old Bus Station''' close to the Centro Histórico and costs M$9.50 (Dec 2021). To get to the bus station of the airport, take a right upon exiting the airport building and follow the signs to the "Terminal Terrestre." Walk past the police station and FedEx building. Pay when getting on the bus. There is a bus station inside the airport for the Chapala bus line. Buses leaving the airport go to the Central Vieja (Old Bus Station) downtown, as well as to towns around Lake Chapala, including [[Chapala]] and [[Ajijic]]. The buses operate from 06:00 - 21:00. ===By bus=== Guadalajara has two bus stations: [[File:CentralCamionesGDL.jpg|thumb|Ticket counters in the Central de Autobuses]] * {{marker | type=go | name=Central de Autobuses Guadalajara | alt=New Bus Station | lat=20.621432 | long=-103.285841}} – This is the new main bus station in the suburb of Tlaquepaque, which serves all long-distance routes (generally those which leave the state of Jalisco). This is a large, regional bus hub with numerous bus companies and space to load and unload 100 or more buses at a time. It is a clean, modern station with waiting rooms and restaurants. Restrooms are clean but require payment of M$7 (coins only). From this bus station to the Centro Histórico it's particularly convenient by subway (MiTren). If you arrive by bus and want to use the train, look across the parking lot as you exit the terminal. Note the location of the red Kentucky Fried Chicken sign. Walk towards KFC, to the left of the parking lot, then turn left in front of KFC and cross the street. You will be in the train station. A trip anywhere the train goes will cost 10 pesos (9.50 per ride if you buy a card). * {{marker | type=go | name=Central Vieja| alt=Old Bus Station | address=Calle Los Angeles 218 | lat= 20.6629237 | long= -103.3449105}} - Just south of downtown, a few blocks from the San Juan de Dios marketplace, the Central Vieja is served by regional second-class bus lines to nearby pueblos such as [[Tequila]], [[Mazamitla]], [[Sayula]] and [[Chapala]]. There are many bus lines serving almost every corner of the state of Jalisco. The buses themselves are often clean and very comfortable, and are sometimes indistinguishable from the first-class buses operated on long-distance routes. Fares are very reasonable, for example M$80 (US$4) to Chapala, M$100 (US$5) to Mazamitla. It is advisable to use an Uber or taxi to and from the station as the surrounding area has quite a bit of crime and is regarded as dangerous for outsiders. ===By van=== If you come from '''León''' and want to take a '''second-class van''' to Guadalajara: '''[https://roll-bits.com/ Roll&bits]''' has daily rides for about M$200 (May 2022). Just book your ticket online on their website. The vans have a big trunk for luggage. === By carpooling === From and to Puerto Vallarta it's around M$300 (Nov 2021) on Blablacar. ===By car=== *'''Federal Highway 15''' ''(Carretera Federal 15)'' connects Guadalajara with Mexico City to the east. ==Get around== {{mapframe|20.666667|-103.35|zoom=12}} The Centro (downtown) is best accessible by walking. Most attractions lie within an area of about 1 km long by 350 m wide. For longer trips, or to get in and out of the Centro, use the bus, subway or a taxi. There are also '''horse-drawn carriages''' ''(calandrias)'', which are more expensive and touristy. ===By e-hailing=== Uber, Cabify and Didi cover the city. ===By bike=== Guadalajara integrates bike rentals in its urban transportation plan. Racks of sturdy rental bikes, most painted green and emblazoned with "Mi Bici" logos, are located in high traffic areas including many city parks, Metro stations, and bus stops. The [https://www.mibici.net/en/ Mi Bici web site] provides a site map showing the locations of bike rental kiosks. Bikes can be rented via an annual subscription (about M$470) or on a temporary basis. Traffic can be chaotic on city streets, but the local government is making good progress in setting aside dedicated traffic lanes for bikes. ===By bus=== For finding connections, Moovit and Google Maps cover the city including the subway. Regular buses are green or red and have a "Mi Transporte" logo on the side, they cost M$9.50 (Dec 2023) and cover almost every city street. You can pay with the public transport card or in cash. You don't get change. If paying with a bill, you can fold it and push it through the coin slot inside the bus. Most bus stops have a signpost with a blue sign and a picture of a bus as well as triangular markings on the road with the word ''parada'' (bus stop). Route numbers and final destinations are shown on a lighted display on front of the bus and next to the door. When you wait for a bus, check the ''destination screen'', the ''windshield'' and on the ''left of the front door'', to be sure it's your bus line. It might be good to always ask the bus driver if he goes to your destination. '''Metropolitan Area Mass Transit System''' ''(Sistema de Transporte Colectivo de la Zona Metropolitana)'' is the local transit authority. Check their web site for maps, schedules, and fare information. Alternatively, try [http://www.buscaturuta.com Busca Tu Ruta]{{Dead link|date=February 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Search for Your Route). One particularly useful method for getting back and forth between the Centro Histórico and the Zona Rosa/Minerva area is the '''Guadalajara Trolley Bus''' ("Mi Trole"). Westbound trolleys travel along Avenida Vallarta; eastbound trolleys along Avenida Hidalgo. Just look overhead for the pair of electrical power cables. In the Centro Histórico you can catch the Trolebús on Avenida Hidalgo up to the east side of the Plaza de la Liberación, where it makes the turn to head up to Calzada Independencia and back west. There is also an open-top double-decker '''tourist bus''' ''(TuriBus)'' that leaves from the Rotunda and will take you past all the main sites in Guadalajara, Tlaquepaque and Zapopan. Riders can get on and off the bus at will all day long, for a flat rate. Tour operators use luxury buses (such as Turquesa, Tour and Cardenal). [[File:GDL megabus.jpg|thumb|Mi Macro]] Guadalajara has a modern bus rapid-transit (BRT) system that operates along two lines. The system is called Macrobus (or simply '''Mi Macro'''). It consists of articulated double-length buses that run in dedicated lanes. They are often twice as fast as using Mi Bus (or even Ubers). The fare is M$9.50, but is most conveniently paid with a 10-peso coin at the turnstiles (no change, but who cares since it's half a peso). * '''Calzada''' runs diagonally southwest-northeast, crossing the Centro Historico at "Bicentenario", which connects to the "Independencia" station for ''Mi Tren'' (subway). The Calzada line stops at the Central de Autobuses and is also useful for visiting "Tlaqapaque Centro". An extension to the airport is under construction. * '''Periferico''' is 3/4 of a loop around the city. The line is a 42 km long arc with 42 stations. ===By taxi=== Taxis are another option if you don't want to try to figure out the buses. You can either agree on a price with the cab driver or ask him to turn the meter on. Using the latter option, there is a risk that the driver won't the take the shortest possible route if he thinks you don't know it yourself. The meter will normally be a better price than the price the hotel will tell you to pay if they call you a cab. As always, be sure to ask the fare before you get in. Cabs cost more at night or when they have to cross the outer ring ''(Anillo Periférico)'' of the city. At night, the prices are doubled. If the driver is using a meter, there's also a starting price. Fares to and from the airport are set. If arriving at the Guadalajara airport, a taxi monopoly provides the service from the airport. Pay for your taxi ride at the booths outside of the arrival halls. You can take a normal taxi ''to'' the airport, though. ===By subway=== [[File:Metro_Guadalajara_map.svg|thumb|Guadalajara subway map]] [[File:GDL Metro.jpg|thumb|Mi Tren in Guadalajara]] There is a light-rail '''subway system''' (''Tren Ligero'' or ''Mi Tren'') that can be useful for travelers. There are three lines with two that meet at the western edge of the Centro Histórico, and a third that runs diagonally across the city. (A fourth line is under construction.) On transit maps, they are designated as "Mi Tren" with a block such as L1 or L2 that designate the line. One line runs north-to-south beneath Avenida Federalismo to the edges of the city in both directions. The second runs west-to-east through the Centro Histórico to the eastern suburbs, and the third runs diagonally across the city from Zapopan in the northwest to Tlaquepaque in the southeast. The train can be particularly useful for getting to or from the main (new) bus station as well as for visits to the colonial center of Tlaqapaque where the [[Mexican artesanias|artesanias]] shops fill the streets. The fare is M$9.50 (Dec 2024). You can pay with the public transport card or by cash at the machine: For the latter just push on the blue button on the screen. You can buy a single-trip ticket for 10 pesos (the machine does not give you change). The subway closes at 23:00. A site map and more information about the system is at the [https://www.siteur.gob.mx/ SITEUR] web page. SITEUR is the government agency responsible for electric transit systems in Guadalajara, including Mi Tren, Mi Macro, and the Trole. A public transport card costs M$30 (Dec 2021) and can be purchased from a ticket machine in the entrance of a subway station. It can be used for the Metro, BRT, local buses and for bikesharing (Mi Bici). [[File:Pre-Tren autobus100 2826.jpg|thumb|The Pre-Tren]] A bus service called '''Pre-Tren''' ("Pre-Train") extends from the main subway station (Juárez) through the Zona Rosa to the west Anillo Periférico at a 50% discounted fare for subway card users. Pre-Trenes provide a good service with air-conditioned, red-colored units. The service is better than the smaller green "Mi Transporte" buses ''(camiones)''. ===By car=== You may also rent a car from airport, most major car rental companies such [http://www.Avis.com.com Avis]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.Nationalcar..com National Car Rental], [https://www.citycarrental.com/guadalajara-car-rental City Car Rental],Hertz and Europcar have booths at the baggage claim area. There are also some local car rentals such as [http://www.veico.com Veico Car Rental] and [http://mobixcarrental.com Mobix Car Rental] just outside the airport that also have good cars and often lower prices. Rental cars are only useful for getting outside the urban area (such as driving to [[Puerto Vallarta]] or the [[Costalegre]]. Within the urban area, congestion is unavoidable, navigation very hard (with many 1-way streets), and parking is often hard to find. ==See== ===Centro Histórico and nearby=== [[File:Hospicio Cabañas Nocturno.JPG|thumbnail|Cabañas in the nighttime]] [[File:Hidalgo statue.jpg|This [[Sculpture|statue]] of Miguel de Hidalgo is in the Plaza de la Liberación.|thumb|200px]] [[File:Parque Colomos.jpg|thumb|Colomos Forest]] * {{see | name=Belén Cemetery | alt=Panteón de Belén | url= | email= | address=Belén 684, El Retiro | lat=20.687533 | long=-103.3449 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 7786 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tours Tu-Sa 10:00, 11:00, 13:00 and 14:00, Th-Sa also at 20:30, 22:00 and 23:30 | price= | wikipedia=Panteón de Belén | wikidata=Q3936203 | content=This old cemetery dates back to 1786. It has been converted into a museum that is full of interesting stories of cemetery hauntings and Tapatío culture in general. There are also night tours Th-Sa that many people are afraid to take! Photos and videos for a fee. Tours are offered.}} * {{see | name=Cabañas Cultural Institute | alt=Instituto Cultural Cabañas | url=https://museocabanas.jalisco.gob.mx | email= | address=Cabañas 8, San Juan de Dios | lat=20.676877 | long=-103.337700 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3668 1642 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 | price=M$80; teachers, students, and seniors $60 ($30 with valid ID, kids 6-12 also), free entry on Tuesdays; camera fee $30, video fee $40; Guillermo del Toro Cinema $30, teachers, students and seniors $25 | lastedit=2023-05-16 | content=This [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]] east of Plaza de la Liberación is a cultural and art center where the fresco paintings of Jose Clemente Orozco are exhibited. }} * {{see | name=City Museum | alt=Museo de la Ciudad | url=http://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-de-la-ciudad-de-guadalajara | email= | address=Independencia 684, Zona Centro | lat=20.678166 | long=-103.352078 | directions= | phone=+52 33 1201 8712 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-17:30, Su 10:00-14:30 | price=M$20, teachers and students $10, free for children under 12 and Su | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=Exploring Guadalajara's over 450 years of history, the Museo de la Ciudad is situated in a former convent in the Centro Histórico that dates to the 18th Century. The museum's permanent collection is housed in six exhibition halls arranged chronologically according to century (16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st) and comprises artifacts and explanatory tests related to the history of Guadalajara in terms of art and architecture, ethnography, urban development, and the everyday life of Tapatíos. Temporary exhibits are also displayed, and lectures, workshops and symposia often take place in the auditorium and outdoor courtyard. }} * {{see | name=Museum of the Arts University of Guadalajara | alt=MUSA, Museo de las Artes Universidad de Guadalajara | url=http://www.musaudg.mx/ | email= | address=Av Juárez 975, Col Americana | lat=20.67423 | long=-103.35897 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3134 1664 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, closed M | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=University museum featuring temporary exhibits by local artists. The museum's star attraction is a lecture hall with a backdrop of a famous mural by Jose Clemente Orozco. }} * {{see | name=Cross of Plazas | alt=Cruz de Plazas | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=These four plazas are laid out in the form of a cross, with the Catedral at the center. Any of them offer a nice spot to walk through or rest in for a few minutes, and most have plenty of food vendors nearby. The plazas that make up the Cross are: }} ** {{see | name=Plaza Guadalajara | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67704 | long=-103.34783 | directions=West of the cathedral, between Av. Hidalgo and Calle de Morelos, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Located directly in front of the cathedral, Plaza Guadalajara contains a circular fountain and an outdoor restaurant. Under the fountain there is an underground commercial center which offers all kinds of goods for sale including fruit, beverages and jewelry. }} ** {{see | name=Plaza de Armas | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67619 | long=-103.34694 | directions=south of the cathedral, between Calle de Morelos and Calle Pedro Moreno, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Plaza de Armas offers one of the best views of the cathedral, as well as the '''Government Palace'''. It features a French ironwork bandstand that was purchased by former Mexican president Porfirio Díaz in 1885, and four statues on the corners of the place symbolizing the four seasons. The bandstand serves as the performing arena for marching bands. }} ** {{see | name=Plaza de la Liberación | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67703 | long=-103.34591 | directions=east of the cathedral, between Av. Hidalgo and Calle de Morelos, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This plaza features two large cup-shaped fountains and a gigantic sculpture of Miguel Hidalgo, the man who signed the Mexican Declaration of Independence in the current Governor's Office. It also serves as an atrium for the oldest surviving theater in the city, the '''Teatro Degollado''', and it's the usual spot for massive free concerts. }} ** {{see | name=Rotunda of Illustrious Jaliscans | alt=Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67776 | long=-103.34701 | directions=north of the cathedral, between Av. Hidalgo and Calle Independencia, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This lovely circular monument of fluted columns is a mausoleum containing the ashes of 98 important men and women born in Jalisco. The bright and busy atmosphere of the park around it contrasts with the serious aspect of the Rotunda. On the southern side (across the street from the cathedral) is the bus stop for the TuriBus. }} * {{see | name=Government Palace | alt=Palacio de Gobierno | url=http://www.jalisco.gob.mx | email= | address=Corona 31, Zona Centro | lat=20.67625 | long=-103.34607 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3668 1800 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-20:00 | price= | wikidata=Q110284122 | content=This is the historical center of the government of the State of Jalisco. Today it is mostly visited for its murals, the work of the famous Jalisciense artist, José Clemente Orozco. The most famous of these is a huge portrait of Miguel Hidalgo in the vault of the old chambers of the State Council. }} * {{see | name=Guadalajara Cathedral | alt=Catedral de la Asunción de María Santísima | url=http://arquidiocesisgdl.org/inicio.php | email= | address=Fray Antonio Alcalde 10, Zona Centro | lat=20.677012 | long=-103.346984 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 7168 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1706069 | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=Construction of this Guadalajara landmark started in the 1560s and took about 50 years to complete. The current towers were replaced on 1854 by architect Manuel Gómez Ibarra after an earthquake destroyed the originals in 1818. While visiting the Cathedral, a must-see is the mural "The Immaculate Conception" ''(La Purísima Concepción)'' by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo. Also here is the [http://www.museodeartesacro.com.mx/ Museo de Arte Sacro]. The cathedral's architecture is an eclectic mix of the Gothic, Neoclassical and Palladian styles. }} * {{see | name=Guadalajara Regional Museum | alt=Museo Regional de Guadalajara | url=http://www.inah.gob.mx/paseos/museoregionalguadalajara/ | email= | address=Liceo 60, Zona Centro | lat=20.677804 | long=-103.346421 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 2703 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 09:00-17:30, Su 09:00-16:30 | price= | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=A pleasant museum to spend a few hours in, especially on a hot day when you need some time out of the sun. It features the skeleton of a mammoth found on the nearby Laguna de Chapala. }} * {{see | name=Museo de lo Increíble | alt= | url=http://museodecera.com.mx/ | email= | address=C. Morelos 217 | lat=20.67656 | long=-103.34516 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614 8487 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=It sounds tacky, but this wax/oddities museum can be an interesting way to learn about Jaliscian history. }} * {{see | name=Plaza de los Mariachis | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av. Javier Mina at Calz. Independencia Sur, San Juan de Dios | lat=20.67495 | long=-103.3414 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28517416 | content=The official name of this small triangular plaza is Plaza Pepe Guizar, named for the composer who was responsible for the song "Guadalajara". However, its popular name comes from the mariachi bands who, for a small fee, will serenade you while enjoying the restaurants and bars around the square (a word of warning, though: this neighborhood becomes sketchy after dark). The Plaza de los Mariachis is where the famous '''Mexican Hat Dance''' ''(Jarabe Tapatío)'' was born. }} * {{see | name=Acuario Michin | alt= | url=https://acuariomichin.com/guadalajara/ | email= | address=Mariano de la Bárcena 990 | lat=20.69242 | long=-103.35119 | directions=next to Parque Alcalde | phone=+52 33 1644 9910 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11ː00-18ː00 | price= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Good representation of aquatic species here. }} * {{see | name=Blue Water Park | alt=Parque Agua Azul | url= | email=parque-agua-azul-92@hotmail.com | address=Calz. Independencia Sur 973, Reforma | lat=20.6596 | long=-103.3482 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3619 0328 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 | price= | content=Open air concerts, a butterfly enclosure, an aviary and plenty of greenery are some of the things that can be enjoyed at Agua Azul. This is a good place to take a break from the often dry, dusty and crowded environment of the city. The park houses a museum of paleontology, and there is a museum of regional archaeology just across Calzada Independencia. The 1.5 km from the Centro Histórico to the park is quite walkable, but it is also accessible via the 62A and 62D buses along Calzada Independencia. }} ===Minerva, Chapultepec, and west of the Centro Histórico=== * {{see | name=Chapalita Roundabout | alt=Glorieta Chapalita | url=http://www.glorietachapalita.com | email= | address=Av. Guadalupe at Av. de las Rosas, Chapalita, Zapopan | lat=20.666 | long=-103.403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A verdant gathering place in a lovely neighborhood ''(colonia)'' in the suburb of Zapopan, this "garden of art" sees local artists showing off their creations every Sunday while local residents show off their dogs. Raucous celebrations take place here on national holidays. }} * {{see | name=The Expiatory Church of the Blessed Sacrament | alt=El Expiatorio, Templo del Santísimo Sacramento | url=https://m.facebook.com/pages/Templo-Expiatorio/119386111470505 | email= | address=López Cotilla 935, Col. Americano | lat=20.673598 | long=-103.358947 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 3410 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento | image=Templo Expiatorio de GDL.jpg | wikidata=Q7698848 | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=This finely detailed Gothic Revival cathedral was built over decades starting in the late 19th century. There is a mechanical clock in the bell tower that features a procession of the Twelve Apostles at 09:00, 12:00 and 18:00. The interior of the church features a lovely collection of stained glass windows. }} * {{see | name=Minerva Roundabout | alt=Glorieta Minerva | url= | email= | address=Av. Ignacio Vallarta at Av. Adolfo López Mateos, Zona Centro | lat=20.674167 | long=-103.387222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5964364 | content=This ''glorieta'' (traffic circle) showcases a giant statue of the Roman goddess Minerva (one of the most important symbols of Guadalajara), surrounded by a fountain. It's sometimes shut down to traffic and opened to pedestrians when there's a major city celebration—such as when the '''Chivas''' football team wins a major game. }} * {{see | name=Monument of the Child Heroes | alt=Monumento a los Niños Héroes | url= | email= | address=Av. Niños Héroes at Av. Chapultepec Sur, Moderna | lat=20.66684 | long=-103.36843 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 1340 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A massive stone spire that memorializes six teenage military cadets who died defending Mexico City's military academy from U.S. forces during the Mexican-American War. }} * {{see | name=Vallarta Arch | alt=Arcos Vallarta | url= | email= | address=Av. Ignacio Vallarta just east of Glorieta Minerva, Zona Centro | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1577816 | content=This Romanesque double arch stands at what was once the western edge of the city. There are nice views to be had from the top, and interesting murals to view on the way up. }} ===Zapopan=== * {{see | name=Colomos Forest | alt=Bosque Los Colomos | url=https://bosquesurbanos.mx/bosques/bosque-los-colomos | email= | address=El Chaco 3200, Colomos Providencia, Zapopan | lat=20.707778 | long=-103.392889 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3641 3804 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-15:00 | price= | image=Parque Colomos.jpg | wikidata=Q5979585 | content=This lovely, family-friendly green space is a 92-hectare urban forest that boasts 30,000 trees of diverse species. Its mission is to conserve a beautiful example of a native woodland in an urban environment and educate visitors on ways for humans to better coexist with nature. In terms of visitor amenities, Colomos boasts lovely gardens including a Japanese garden and a cactus garden, goldfish ponds where children enjoy feeding the fish, and horseback riding. Smoking is strictly prohibited. }} * {{see | name=Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan | alt= | url=https://arquidiocesisgdl.org/ | email= | address=Calle Eva Briseño 152, Zapopan | lat=20.72125 | long=-103.39231 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3633 0141 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Basilica_of_Our_Lady_of_Zapopan | wikidata=Q4867367 | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=This basilica whose construction began in 1689 is especially popular because it preserves a wooden Virgin relic that came from Spain in the 16th century, and which is tied to a visitation by the Virgin herself with the intent of getting the indigenous people to lay down their weapons in the process of Spanish colonization. On October 12 a pilgrimage that includes up to a million people travels from the Cathedral of Guadalajara to this Basilica, where a mass is held and people celebrate with music, food and fireworks. }} * {{see | name=Trompo Mágico Museum | alt= | url=http://trompomagico.jalisco.gob.mx/ | email= | address=Av. Central Guillermo Gonzalez Camarena 750, Zapopan | lat=20.72269 | long=-103.43150 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3030 0001 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-F 09:00-18:00, Sa Su 11:00-19:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Interactive kids museum. }} * {{see | name=Calaverandia - Parque Temático | alt= | url=https://www.calaverandia.mx/en/ | email= | address=Avenida Manuel Ávila Camacho | lat=20.71211 | long=-103.37357 | directions=located in Parque Avila Camacho | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=A thematic amusement park. }} ===Tlaquepaque=== [[File:FotoCH 17.JPG|Plaza Tapatia|thumb]] The municipalities of Tlaquepaque and Tonala to the southeast of Guadalajara are essentially suburbs, though they retain much of their small-town charm. They had similar origins in originally being settlements of indigenous tribes with a pottery industry and were overtaken by the Spanish conquistador Nuño de Guzmán in 1530. Tlaquepaque also hosted Miguel Hidalgo on his way to Guadalajara in the [[Mexican War of Independence]]. Today the hallmark feature of these places is still pottery, though shops with furniture, textiles and other handicrafts are plentiful. In Tonala, don't miss the '''Thursday and Sunday street market''' revolving around handicrafts in front of the main church. * {{see | name=Museo Regional de la Ceramica | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-regional-de-la-ceramica-de-tlaquepaque | email= | address=Calle Independencia 237, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.63914 | long=-103.31465 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3860 1177 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 09:00-17:00 | price=free | wikipedia=Museo_Regional_de_la_Ceramica,_Tlaquepaque | wikidata=Q6940511 | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=A tribute to the pottery heritage of Tlaquepaque. Portrays different styles like burnished clay, high temperature, flag clay and petatillo. }} * {{see | name=Parroquia San Pedro Apóstol | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/ParroquiaSanPedroTlaquepaque | email= | address=Guillermo Prieto 60, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.64011 | long=-103.31177 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635 1001 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 09:30-13:30, 16:30-20:00 Sa; 09:30-13:30; closed Su | price= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Baroque/Byzantine-designed parish that dates to 1845, fronting the city square known as Jardin Hidalgo. }} * {{see | name=Centro Cultural El Refugio | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/casas-de-la-cultura/centro-cultural-el-refugio | email= | address=Calle Donato Guerra 160, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.64204 | long=-103.31292 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3562 7036 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 09:00-15:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=This building built in 1885 to be a psychiatric hospital now hosts cultural events and the Pantaleón Panduro, or display of winners from the National Ceramics Contest. }} ===Tonala=== * {{see | name=Museo Regional Tonallan | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-regional-tonallan | email= | address=Calle Ramón Corona 73, Tonalá | lat=20.62520 | long=-103.23980 | directions= | phone=+52 33 1200 3936 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, closed M | price=free | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Includes artwork pertaining to the Nahual, a shapeshifter sort of being. }} * {{see | name=Parroquia de Santiago Apostol/Capilla de la Cruz Blanca | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Parroquia-Santiago-Ap%C3%B3stol-Tonal%C3%A1-255442698506992/ | email= | address=Av Benito Juarez 80, Tonalá | lat=20.62416 | long=-103.24259 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3683 1186 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=16th-century churches. The parroquia is known for its Dance of the Tastoanes featuring masks on July 25th. }} * {{see | name=Museo Nacional de la Cerámica | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-nacional-de-la-ceramica-jorge-wilmot | email= | address=Calle Constitución 104, Tonalá | lat=20.62684 | long=-103.24313 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3683 2519 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=more about ceramics. }} ===Huentitán=== [[File:Huentitan Canyon GDL.jpg|thumb|Huentitan-Oblatos Canyon]] * {{see | name=Huentitán-Oblatos Canyon | alt=Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos | url= | email= | address=North end of Calz. Independencia Norte, Huentitán el Alto | lat=20.70583 | long=-103.28306 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3674 0238 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This is the forested gorge of the Río Lerma-Santiago, accessible via buses #62A and #62D which run along Calzada Independencia. There are two locations with fine views of the gorge. }} * {{see | name=Guadalajara Zoo | alt=Zoológico Guadalajara | url=http://www.zooguadalajara.com.mx | email= | address=Paseo del Zoológico 600, Huentitán el Alto | lat=20.728381 | long=-103.308333 | directions=Mi Mega to Zoologico | phone=+52 33 3674 4488 | tollfree= | hours=W-Su 10:00-18:00 when school is in session, daily 10:00-18:00 during summer break and on holiday weekends | price=varies by packet, M$200-400 (Nov 2024) | wikipedia=Guadalajara Zoo | wikidata=Q3576044 | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=The modern Guadalajara Zoo is next to the Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos. It's worth visiting for its view of the canyon, and for its collection of animals, its safari ride, aerial cable cars, and its panoramic train. Other highlights include a reptile house, an arctic habitat, a nocturnal environment exhibit and a tropical forest simulated environment. Special packages available for different combinations of access to panoramic train, safari, aerial cable cars, and/or aquarium }} * {{see | name=Independencia Overlook Park | alt=Parque Mirador Independencia | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.74032 | long=-103.31023 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6062388 | content=This lovely park is at the northern terminus of Calzada Independencia adjacent to the Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos, with beautiful views of the canyon. Pretty gardens and benches are peppered around the park, allowing visitors to sit and enjoy the different views the park has to offer. This is also the starting point for many of the hiking trails that traverse the canyon. }} ==Do== {{mapframe|name=Map of the region around Guadalajara}} === City tour=== You can make a sightseeing tour in a very economically and animal friendly carriage. These are not powered by a horse, instead by a battery like an electric car. The start is at the cathedral. Prices are M$300 for half an hour, M$400-500 for a whole hour (Dec 2021). === Conventions === Guadalajara is Latin America's top destination for business conventions with the city's Expo Guadalajara convention center hosting many of the country's largest trade shows. * {{do | name=Expo Guadalajara | url=https://expoguadalajara.mx/ | address=Av. Mariano Otero 1499, Verde Valle | lat=20.65387807345402 | long=-103.39176410120137 | phone=+52 333 343 3000 | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Largest event venue in Mexico. Hosts major industrial trade shows throughout the year. }} ===Sports=== Guadalajara's sports culture is one of the most vibrant in Mexico, with a well-developed infrastructure of stadiums and facilities, achievements under its belt such as its successful turn as the host of the 2011 Pan-American Games, world-class athletes such as professional golfer Lorena Ochoa calling the city home, and big plans for the future. Guadalajara is also home to many ballet schools surrounding the metropolitan area. ====Football==== Of course, one would be remiss in talking about Guadalajara sports without mentioning the three professional football (''futbol'', i.e. what Americans call soccer) teams based there: '''Estudiantes''', '''Atlas''', and of course, '''Chivas'''. Chivas, more properly known as '''Club Deportivo Guadalajara''', is, according to FIFA, the most popular football team in Mexico. Chivas has won 11 first-division titles and holds the longest-ever season-opening winning streak: 8 back-to-back wins. Chivas is also the only football team in Mexico with exclusively Mexican players, whereas other teams have players of varying nationalities. The team colors are red, white, and blue, signifying "Fraternity, Union, and Sports". The new stadium, '''Estadio Akron''', with a capacity of 49,850, was inaugurated in 2010. [[File:Estadio Akron 02-07-2022 cabecera sur lado derecho.jpg|thumb|Estadio Akron is a FIFA World Cup venue]] * {{do | name=Estadio Akron | alt=formerly Estadio Omnilife | url=https://estadioakron.mx/ | email= | address=Circuito JVC 2800, Ayamonte, Zapopan | lat=20.681667 | long=-103.462778 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3777 5700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q666183 | lastedit=2025-01-10 | content=This is the stadium where most of the outdoor events for the 2011 Pan-American Games were held, and—more importantly—where the most popular football team in the city and the whole country, The stadium will host games for [[2026 FIFA World Cup|FIFA's 2026 World Cup]]. The stadium's home team, Deportivo Guadalajara (Chivas), has played since 2010. Chivas plays here every other Saturday at 19:00, unless otherwise specified. If you happen to be in Guadalajara on a Saturday, you are most likely to find either a Chivas football game in this stadium, or an Atlas game at Estadio Jalisco (below). Big games to watch out are Chivas vs. Atlas (which can be held in either stadiums depending on which one is scheduled as the home team) and Chivas vs. América—the "National Superclassic" ''(superclásico nacional)''—as these teams are bitter rivals. Either of these match-ups are sure to sell out the stadium and treat those lucky enough to get tickets to an intense atmosphere. Estadio Akron is a difficult place to reach by public transport. It is close to the Periférico Oriente, so taking a taxi is the best option. Alternatively, use any bus that will go around Periférico and you'll eventually get there, just ask the driver to let you know when you are there, since the stadium's visibility from Periférico is very limited.<br /><br />Two museums inside Estadio Akron should not be missed. '''Museo Chivas''' is a soccer museum focused on the stadium's home team, ''Chivas'', who are widely regarded as the most popular football team in Mexico. The museum chronicles the team's long history, with bios, statistics, and outstanding achievements of its players. The second museum is '''Jose Vergara Museo''', known as ''JOVEM''. This museum has nothing to do with soccer, making it an unlikely resident of the stadium. It is a design museum, focusing on the intersection of art and architecture. Guides are available to walk through the museum with you, explaining humanistic values comprising design elements. }} [[File:Estadio jalisco.jpg|thumb| Jalisco Stadium]] * {{do | name=Estadio Jalisco | alt=Jalisco Stadium | url=http://www.estadiojalisco.net | email= | address=Siete Colinas 1772, Independencia | lat=20.705 | long=-103.328139 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3637 0563 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1346716 | content=It's in Colonia Independencia, and can be reached by taking any bus along the Calzada Independencia and asking for the Estadio Jalisco. You will almost definitely see it if you look out, it will be on your left as you come from the center. Here the football team Atlas plays. Chivas used to play on this stadium until 2010, when Estadio Akron was completed. During the season there are league games every other Saturday. If Atlas is playing as a visitor, then you can look for a Chivas game at Estadio Akron. A big game to watch out for is Atlas vs. Chivas, which has an incredible atmosphere, though most games are worth experiencing. If you are of a nervous disposition, perhaps avoid the upper stands when there is a large crowd as it's known to shake when the crowds begin to jump. }} *{{do | name=Estadio Tres de Marzo | alt=March 3rd Stadium | url=https://www.facebook.com/Estadio-3-De-Marzo-252391198116915/ | email= | address=Patria 1201, Villa Universitaria, Zapopan | lat=20.693753 | long=-103.416136 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3610 1834 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q579997 | content=The Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara's football stadium in the north of the city, where "Los Estudiantes" play, is named for the date of the founding of the university in 1935. The Estudiantes play in the '''Primera Liga''' along with the other Guadalajara teams, Atlas and Chivas. }} ==== Baseball ==== Guadalajara hosts teams in both of Mexico's major professional leagues. Both play in the Estadio los Charros de Jalisco in the suburban municipality of Zapopan. The stadium was built in 2011 for the Panamerican Games and is often referred to as ''Estadio Panamericana'', though it was purchased by the Charros. * {{do | name=Estadio Los Charros de Jalisco | alt=Estadio Panamericano | url= | email= | address=Calle Sta. Lucía 373, Tepeyac, Zapopan | lat=20.727672 | long=-103.381458 | directions=use bus or taxi (no on-site parking) | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=Modern, state-of-the-art baseball stadium that is home field for both the [http://www.charrosjalisco.com '''Charros de Jalisco'''] (Pacific League, winter) and the '''Mariachis de Guadalajara''' (Mexican League, summer). The stadium is modern with unobstructed sight lines. Small, intimate park seating just 8,000 fans. Very clean and comfortable. Beware: Inconvenient, fan-hostile payment policies. The stadium requires you to buy their own payment card and use it for any purchases in the stadium (though credit cards are accepted for ticket purchase). The stadium is also difficult to reach as there is no parking and nearby access roads are blocked on game days. Take public transit, taxis, or Ubers and don't be surprised if they drop you off in an oddly uninviting neighborhood. }} ====Bullfighting==== * {{do | name=Nuevo Progreso Bullring | alt=Plaza de Toros Nuevo Progreso | url=https://plazanuevoprogreso.com.mx/ | email= | address=Montes Pirineos 1930, Monumental | lat=20.70198 | long=-103.32533 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3651 8378 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=It's right across the road from the Estadio Jalisco, just off Calzada Independencia. Bullfights take place at the Plaza Nuevo Progreso during the season on Sundays at 16:30. Those arriving by bus might not be able to see the bullring from the street, as it's hidden behind some trees, so get off when you see the Estadio Jalisco and go in the opposite direction. Be aware that [[Bullfighting]] is controversial and local courts blocked bullfights. Higher appellate courts may or may not have reversed the decision, but if you really want to see bullfights in Guadalajara, you may need to go to one of the suburbs that have their own bullrings (such as Tlaqapaque). }} ====Golf==== Golf is a popular past time with Mexican businessmen, but many courses are private and you would need an invitation from a member to play there. The following courses are open to the public or have some type of daily pass for non-members. Most of the golf courses are on the north side of Guadalajara, around Zapopan, but challenging courses may be found in any part of the city. * {{do | name=Atlas Country Club | alt= | url=https://country.atlas.com.mx/ | email= | address=Guadalajara-Chapala Road Km. 6.5 El Salto| lat=20.601554113763726 | long=-103.30527198401478 | directions=south side of Guadalajara, near Tonala | phone=+52 333 689 2620 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 07:00 - 21:00, but check weekend hours, which may be much shorter | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-03-28 | content=One of the best courses in Guadalajara is an 18-hole course designed by Joe Finger. Caddies are required and visitor greens fees often include the caddie service. }} * {{do | name=Club de Golf Santa Anita | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carr. Guadalajara-Morelia Km 6.5 | lat=20.564914519337734 | long=-103.46939760516346 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 11:00 - 19:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-03-28 | content=Classic 18-hole course with hills, long fairways, and a challenging final 4 holes. Facilities include a driving range, putting greens, a pro shop, a clubhouse with an upscale dining room, and outdoor patios to relax with a drink, enjoying the scenery. }} * {{do | name=El Cielo Country Club | alt= | url=http://www.elcielocc.com/ | email= | address=Paseo del Cielo 1, El Palomar | lat=20.606211818614288 | long=-103.47285399771202 | directions=on the west side of Guadalajara | phone=+52 33 3684 4436 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 07:00 - 19:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-03-28 | content=Affordable greens fees combined with challenging elevation drops and spectacular scenery with backgrounds of the city skyline and the nearby mountain ranges make this one of the most popular courses for visiting golfers. }} ===Performing arts=== [[File:Gdl-degollado.jpg|thumb|Jalisco Philharmonic taking the stage at Teatro Degollado]] * {{do | name=Filharmonica de Jalisco | alt=Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra | url=http://en.ofj.com.mx/ | email= | address=Teatro Degollado, Centro | lat=20.677168 | long=-103.344832 | directions= | phone=+52 3614 4773 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=One of Mexico's top professional orchestras, the Jalisco Philharmonic celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2015. The orchestra performs three full seasons of classical music from January to December each year under the direction of Jose Luis Castillo. The orchestra frequently tours abroad. The concert hall is a showcase of opulence that will be appreciated by students of music, architecture, and history. }} * {{do | name=Teatro Diana | alt= | url=http://www.teatrodiana.com/ | email= | address=Av. 16 de Septiembre 710, Mexicaltzingo | lat=20.665432 | long=-103.348996 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614 7940 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-03 | content=Modern performing arts venue built in 2005, hosting concerts, opera, ballet and other events. Seats about 2,400 patrons. }} ===Holidays and events=== ====Spring==== * {{do | name=Guadalajara Film Festival | alt=Festival Internacional del Cine de Guadalajara | url=http://www.ficg.mx/ | email= | address=Nebulosa 2916, Jardines del Bosque | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3121 7461 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Guadalajara International Film Festival | wikidata=Q1408552 | content=The biggest film festival in Latin America and one of the most important showcases for Mexican and Latin American cinema on the world stage, the Festival Internacional del Cine de Guadalajara takes place annually in early March. A bevy of awards are given in all categories of film, and it also serves as a forum for education and creative interchange among Latin American cineasts. }} =====Summer===== * {{do | name=International Mariachi and Charrería Conference | alt=Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi y la Charrería | url=http://www.mariachi-jalisco.com.mx/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mariachi bands from all over Mexico and the world meet the last week of August and the first week of September, usually at '''Teatro Degollado''' and the surrounding area, to play and compete for the delight of fans. You won't witness anything like this unique event anywhere else. }} ====Autumn==== * {{do | name=Independence Day | alt=Día de la Independencia | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Visitors who find themselves in Guadalajara on 16 September are in for a festive and patriotic treat. One traditional way that Tapatíos enjoy celebrating this holiday is with a reenactment of the "Cry of Pain" ''(Grito de Dolores)'', the incident that, in 1810, kicked off the war that ended with Mexico's independence from [[Spain]]. At the stroke of midnight, locals go to the main square and shout out in unison: half yell "Viva" and the other half "México", going on to the names of important heroes of Mexican history: "Viva Hidalgo", "Viva Morelos", and so on. }} * {{do | name=Pilgrimage of Our Lady of Zapopan | alt=Romería de la Virgen de Zapopan | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Celebrated in Guadalajara on 12 October, this event honors the local Virgin Mary figure of the Guadalajara area, the Virgen de Zapopan. On this day, over a million people parade the famous statuette from the downtown cathedral to its home in the '''Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Zapopan'''. This festival is only celebrated in the Guadalajara area, and is one of the largest examples of a [[w:Romería|romería]] outside Spain. It is inscribed by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. }} * {{do | name=International Book Fair | alt=Feria Internacional del Libro | url=http://www.fil.com.mx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=The "FIL" takes place from late November to early December in Guadalajara. Companies and delegations come from all over the world to exhibit their books and see books from other places. Every year a country or region serves as the guest of honor, presenting books that represent its particular literary tradition. }} ====Winter==== * {{do | name=Christmas | alt=Navidad | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Tapatío Christmas tradition that you may witness if you're in Guadalajara over the holidays is known as "Las Posadas" (The Inns). Children parade through the neighborhood recreating the passage of Joseph and Mary through Bethlehem, asking for shelter and being refused. Generally nowadays this is a celebration for family and friends, but if you know a Mexican, it's a great way to experience Mexican culture firsthand. Regular appearances include piñatas, mariachi bands, Mexican beer, tequila and general merriment. }} * {{do | name=Foundation of Guadalajara | alt=Fundación de Guadalajara | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Held on February 14th, this is a celebration to commemorate the foundation of the city of Guadalajara on that day in 1542. }} === Out of town trips === * {{marker | type=do | name=[[Tequila]] | lat=20.8830754 | long= -103.8343469}} – 65km in the west. Situated in a picturesque countryside setting, it's perhaps the quintessential Guadalajara side trip, and is the best place to sample Mexico's favorite liquor. The Jose Cuervo distillery has a packaged tour that will pick you up from your hotel, take you to an agave farm, then to the distillery for a tour with free samples and a gift shop, then gift you with vouchers for a free margarita and 10% off at a local restaurant. The city itself is also quaint and worth exploring. Tequila is easily accessible by bus (about 90 minutes one-way), and many hotels organize excursions there for their guests. However, perhaps the most fun way to get to Tequila is the [http://www.tequilaexpress.com.mx/ Tequila Express], a charming tourist railroad complete with tequila shots and roving mariachis. The train leaves Guadalajara's train station Sa & Su 10:00, returning the same evening. * {{marker | type=do | name=Laguna de Chapala | lat=20.2811878 | long=-103.1935038}} – 50 km in the south. It's the main regional vacation spot, a lovely lake surrounded by picturesque towns such as [[Chapala]] and [[Ajijic]] (the latter of which has a sizeable gringo expat community). Direct buses to Chapala leave from the Old Bus Station (Central Vieja). The 'directo' bus has A/C and takes 1 hour. It costs M$58 (Dec 2021) and departs every full hour from Guadalajara. On the way back the bus departs hourly 15 min after the full hour from Chapala. [[File:Los Guachimontones.JPG|Guachimontones|thumb]] *{{do |name=Guachimontones|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-05-31|content=65 km in the west. A pre-Columbian archaeological site near the town of Teuchitlán, about an hour west of Guadalajara, that dates to the period between 300 BC and 900 AD and is known for its unique circular stepped pyramids. This complex of more than 40 hectares was only discovered in the 1970s|wikidata=Q2989048|wikipedia=Guachimontones}} * {{do | name=Parque Bicentenario Puente de Calderon | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.6751 | long=-103.0101 | directions=off Route 80 east of Zapotlanejo | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:00-18:00 daily | price= | wikipedia=Battle_of_Calderón_Bridge | wikidata=Q786657 | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=45 km in the east. This 17th-century stone bridge was the site of the key Battle of the Bridge of Calderón in 1811 in the Mexican War of Independence. }} ==== Tequila ==== Visitors who enjoy gastronomy in general and alcoholic beverages more specifically will want to take the opportunity to experience Mexico's national drink among the people who make it and love it. There are numerous opportunities to join a tequila tasting in Guadalajara, and travelers who want to delve deeply into the history and the technical details of making, aging, and serving tequila can find many types of tequila tours, including those that follow the state's two official itineraries that are part of the ''[[Tequila Trail]]''. ==== Outdoor activities ==== Guadalajara is a highland city with an elevation of 1566 meters, set in the Atemajac Valley of the [[Sierra Madre|Sierra Madre Occidental]] mountain range. It offers outdoor enthusiasts excellent opportunities for vigorous outdoor activities, especially [[Hiking]], [[Mountain biking]]. These can be enjoyed in parks and protected natural areas that are easily accessible to many parts of the city. These natural areas include: * '''[[La Primavera Biosphere Reserve]]''' - protected areas of forested inactive volcanoes with 12 marked nature trails for both hiking and mountain biking. in the northern part of the city next to Zapopan * '''Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos''' - canyon in the southern part of the city with several forested hiking trails Take the BRT ''Mi Macro - Calzada'' to the '''Mirador''' station (end of the line). The park entrance is very near the station. The park features several forested hiking trails, including: ** '''Main Trail''': This busy, winding trail descends about 600 meters to the Santiago River. The trail features hundreds of numbered hairpin turns, making it a great workout. ** '''Puente de Arcediano Route''': A popular but demanding trail that branches off the main trail to the historic Arcediano Bridge. ** '''Abandoned Railway''': A steep abandoned railway line makes for a fun, off-the-beaten-path route (though it is a bit rugged) ==Learn== The [http://www.udg.mx/ Universidad de Guadalajara], often referred to simply as "U de G", is the most important institution of higher learning in western Mexico, and the second most important in the country after Mexico City's mammoth [http://www.unam.mx/ UNAM]. The University also serves as a center of cultural activity enjoyed by residents and visitors alike, such as the Ballet Folclórico and the {{marker|type=listing|name=[https://boletomovil.com/cineforoudg Cineforo Universidad]|lat=20.67515|long=-103.35875}}. Guadalajara offers many language schools for the fast growing need for learning Spanish. * {{listing | name=Guadalajara Language Center | alt= | url=https://www.glc.com.mx/ | email=glc@glc.com.mx | address=Francisco I. Madero #160a San Pedro Tlaquepaque Jalisco | lat=20.64195 | long=-103.31149 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635-2535 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 8AM-9PM, Sa 9AM-Noon | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-03-17 | content= }} * {{listing | name=IMAC | alt= | url=https://www.spanish-school.com.mx/ | email= info@spanish-school.com.mx | address=Donato Guerra 180 (Historic Downtown Area) | lat=20.67377 | long=-103.35076 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614-1414 | tollfree= | fax=+52 33 3613-4621 | hours=M-F 9AM-8PM, Sa 9AM-3PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-03-17 | content= }} ==Buy== In the centro are ATMs of BanCoppel, Banjercito, BanBajio and Citibanamex. In the Americana district there is a Banca Inbursa ATM inside the Sanborns, BanBajio, Banca Mifel and Santander. In the centro and Americana neighborhood are some stores of Oxxo and 7eleven as well as some minimarkets. On the Av Juárez is the {{marker | type=buy | name= big supermarket Soriana Súper| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.6748893 | long=-103.3517079 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | content=}}. The shopping scene in Guadalajara is centered around two opposing faces of Latin American culture: traditional open-air markets ''(tianguis)'' and the modern shopping plazas and malls that, more and more, are sprouting up around the outskirts of town. The latter can be found in particular proliferation southwest of the Centro Histórico in '''Sector Juárez''', as well as in suburban ''municipios'' such as '''Zapopan'''. A refreshing exception to this rule is the historic downtown district of '''Tlaquepaque''', southeast of Guadalajara proper. This area is characterized by a lively collection of shops centered on the pedestrian-only streets, '''Calle Independencia''' and '''Avenida Juárez'''. Emphasized in these charming shops are arts and handicrafts of all kinds: one-of-a-kind handmade furniture, textiles, jewelry, paintings, sculptures, glassware, home decor, and even chocolate. ===Tianguis=== These temporary open-air street markets or bazaars are a Mexican tradition dating back to the Aztec days, and are a great way to get up close and personal with local culture at its most real—and score some bargains in the process. Some of the biggest tianguis in Guadalajara include: * {{buy | name=Guadalajara Cultural Tianguis | alt=Tianguis Cultural de Guadalajara | url= | email= | address=Plaza Benito Juárez, corner Av. Wáshington and Av. 16 de Septiembre, Zona Centro | lat=20.659617 | long=-103.350569 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa 07:00-19:00 | price= | content=Popular especially with young people, the Tianguis Cultural is not only a great place to buy clothes and music, but also to catch free open-air concerts, mingle, see and be seen. }} * {{buy | name=Liberty Market | alt=Mercado Libertad | url= | email= | address=Javier Mina 52, San Juan de Dios | lat=20.67543 | long=-103.33948 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3618 0506 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 06:00-20:00 | price= | content=Known by locals as '''Mercado San Juan de Dios''' because of the river that used to pass through the area, the Mercado Libertad is a very busy, multi-story enclosed market; with hundreds of vendors, it's the largest market in Latin America. The market also houses a very popular and very good food court featuring everything from seafood to local favorites like '''birria''' (goat stew) and '''pozole''' (hominy and pork stew). It's a great place to get souvenirs. Unfortunately, it isn't the safest place in town, so make sure to always keep on the lookout for purse-snatchers. }} * {{buy | name=Tianguis el Baratillo | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Juan R. Zavala 38, Santa María | lat=20.683704 | long=-103.319313 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su 07:30-15:00 | price= | content=The largest tianguis in Guadalajara, this market sells anything and everything—tools, furniture, food, clothes and accessories, kitchenware, toys, and all manner of other articles—with an emphasis on used items sold at great bargains (hence its name El Baratillo, which roughly translates as "The Flea Market"). }} ===Malls and shopping centers=== * {{buy | name=Centro Magno | alt= | url=https://www.centro-magno.com/ | email= | address=Vallarta 2425, Arcos Vallarta | lat=20.67388 | long=-103.38057 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 1113 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Located between Avenidas Vallarta and López Cotilla, the Centro Magno has a big, wide, closed space in the middle, surrounded mostly by restaurants, fashion, electronics and bazaar stores, with a cinema on the top floor. It's served directly by bus routes 629A and 629B, and routes 626, 622, 24, 258 and 101 are also nearby. }} * {{buy | name=Galería del Calzado | alt= | url=http://www.galeriadelcalzado.com.mx/ | email= | address=Avenida México 3225, Vallarta San Jorge | lat=20.67851 | long=-103.39422 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3647 6422 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 11:00-21:00, Su 11:00-20:30 | price= | content=This is an entire mall that contains over 60 shoe stores, great for the dedicated footwear obsessive. As you can imagine, all prices and styles can be found here. }} * {{buy | name=Galerías Guadalajara | alt= | url=https://galeriasgdl.mx/ | email= | address=Rafael Sanzio 150, Residencial La Estancia, Zapopan | lat=20.676910 | long=-103.431900 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3113 9828 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11ː00-21ː00 | price= | wikidata=Q5874753 | lastedit=2026-02-10 | content=Guadalajara's biggest mall is at the intersection of Avenidas Vallarta and Rafael Sanzio. It houses Guadalajara's biggest multiplex cinema, with 20 THX projection rooms and 4 VIP rooms. Has multi-level parking ramps as well as more than 1 km² of open parking space shared with a Wal-Mart and a Sam's Club. Served by bus routes 25, 47 and 629. }} * {{buy | name=Plaza Andares | alt= | url=http://www.andares.com | email= | address=Puerta de Hierro 4965, Fraccionamiento Plaza Andares, Zapopan | lat=20.71027 | long=-103.41204 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3648 2298 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=At the corner of Avenidas Patria and Puerta de Hierro. Designer stores abound here: DKNY, Cartier, Hugo Boss, Mont Blanc, Helmut Lang, Fendi, Alexander McQueen, Versace, Armani, Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Valentino, Diesel, Cavalli, Calvin Klein, Channel and Dior. }} * {{buy | name=Plaza del Sol | alt= | url=http://www.plazadelsol.com | email= | address=López Mateos Sur 2375, Ciudad del Sol, Zapopan | lat=20.65046 | long=-103.40134 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3121 5950 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7203715 | content=This mall, Guadalajara's second-largest, is near the corner of Avenidas López Mateos and Mariano Otero. The mall boasts a multi-story car park and an open layout, with big, open spaces in the middle, surrounded by hallways. Served by bus routes 357, 101, 24, 258, 626, 629, 645 and 701, as well as the longer-distance buses that connect the nearby town of Santa Anita with the metropolitan area. The '''Torrena Tower''', measuring 336.5 m in height, is under construction next to both Plaza del Sol and '''Plaza Torrena''', a smaller, underground mall nearby that can be recognized by its white concrete dome. }} * {{buy | name=Plaza Patria | alt= | url=http://www.plazapatria.com | email= | address=Patria 45160, Altamira, Zapopan | lat=20.71242 | long=-103.37876 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Bounded by Avenidas Patria, Ávila Camacho and Américas, this two-story mall, smaller than many of the others on this list, nonetheless has a sizable assortment of stores. Clothes and electronics can be bought here, and there are also convenience stores and a supermarket. Served by bus routes 24, 25, 604, 622, 632, 634 and 701. }} ==Eat== Guadalajara has a wide range of restaurants with outstanding street vendors selling regional specialties (particularly birria, tortas, and various tacos). The city also has a mind-boggling variety of outstanding restaurants with dozens of 5-star restaurants offering an upscale experience and a wide range of international flavors. 2024 saw the famed Michelin Guide make its first pass through Mexico and its initial list of recommended Mexican restaurants included 25 outstanding restaurants. In addition to traditional Mexican specialties, Tapatíos seem to be especially fond of Italian food—a considerable number of restaurants of that type can be found around Guadalajara. If you miss American fast food, worry not: in addition to the restaurants listed here, Guadalajara has plenty of American fast-food franchises. ===Budget=== Birria, tortas ahogadas, and chilaquiles are some of the most traditional Tapatío dishes. In the Centro and Americana district you find several low priced restaurants and eateries. In the Centro area you can find many Chinese buffet restaurants offering inexpensive, quick meals. ====Centro Histórico==== {{marker | type=eat | name= Mercado Libertad| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6755436| long= -103.3401238| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | content=}} – The food court is a good place to sample the variety of local specialties. You can go eat here multiple times, as there is a big variety of cooked meals. You can also find Chinese and Japanese dishes. The majority of the food stalls has price tags. Most vendors let you walk through the food court without disturbing you. The prices are low. It's open daily from 8:00-20:00. * '''Birria''' is a savory stew made of roast chiles, spices and traditionally goat meat, though you will usually be given other meat options like mutton or beef depending on the restaurant. For birria, the restaurants in the Nueve Esquinas area (a few blocks south of Templo San Francisco) are popular and reliably good. * '''Tortas ahogadas''' (literally "drowned sandwiches") are elongated sandwiches on ''birote'' bread, akin to submarines or po' boys, smothered in a savory chile and tomato sauce. Numerous restaurants in the Centro Histórico specialize in these. * '''Pozole''' is a hearty soup of pork and hominy topped with fresh cabbage, radish, onion and cilantro. There are some very good pozole stands in the food court of the Mercado Libertad. * '''Mollete'''. Popular for breakfast among locals, this is a French-style roll split and covered with refried beans, then topped with ham or chorizo and cheese and toasted. * '''Tamales''' consist of pockets of ''masa'' (a starchy dough of corn flour) filled with ''mole'' (a sauce or gravy made from any of an infinite combination of chili peppers, spices, and chocolate) and the choice of chicken or pork. Most people make tamales for holidays such as Christmas, the [[Day of the Dead|Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)]], Independence Day, or New Year's Day. * '''Enchiladas''' are a corn or flour tortilla rolled around and filled with meat, cheese, vegetables and/or potatoes and covered with spicy chile sauce, dressed variously in sour cream and/or cheese. ====Colonia Americana==== * {{eat | name=El Vegano Urbano | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Juan Cumplido 14, Col Americana | lat=20.676445 | long=-103.358445 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 19:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2024-09-24 | content=It looks and tastes like actual meat, but it's vegan. Served are delicious tacos for M$15, gringas, hamburgers and more. Tasty sauces that you can add by yourself. }} * {{eat | name= Taquería Reforma | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Escorza 50, Col Americana | lat= 20.6757604| long=-103.3586169| directions= | phone=+52 33 1201 9369 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 11:00 - 22:00 | price= | wikipedia= | image= | lastedit=2024-09-24 | content= It's a simple traditional eatery. The meat is fried right which means it's without burnt black meat. They serve daily 10:30-22:30. You get very good tasting taco bistek or pastor (M$11), taco size quesadilla (M$11), sopes (M$20), or hamburguesa (M$30). }} * {{eat | name=Taco's Pepes | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.673767 | long=-103.370283 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-F 07:30-16:00, Sa 07:30-15:00 | price=Tacos for M$12-14, Gringas vampiros for M$25 | lastedit=2021-11-01 | content=They have a big variety of tasty meat and sauces. }} ====In multiple locations==== * {{eat | name= Sticks Pedro Moreno| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6752899| long= -103.3700324| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= In the Americana neighborhood. In the west of the Zona Centro is the {{marker | type=eat | name= Sticks Parque Rojo| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6743714| long= -103.3565024}} and there is the {{marker | type=eat | name= Sticks Centro Histórico| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6807290| long= -103.3460733}} You get tasty:{{ili|Japanese fried rice yakimeshi with chicken or beef for M$25-46}}{{ili|a rather small portion of pasta for M$39-43}}{{ili|a stick with cheese and salami, plantain, ham, shrimps or surimi for M$16-18}}{{ili|a sushi roll for M$39-57.}}}} ===Mid-range=== ====Centro Histórico==== * {{eat | name=Birrería Las Nueve Esquinas | url=http://www.las9esquinas.com | email= | address=Cristóbal Colón 384, Zona Centro | lat=20.67067 | long=-103.34847 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 6260 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:00-22:00, Su 09:00-19:30 | price= | content=Well known for its lamb birria, a specialty of Jalisco, this popular place is in an old part of the Centro Histórico called "Las Nueve Esquinas" (Nine Corners), for its unusual street layout. }} * {{eat | name=La Chata | url=http://www.lachata.com.mx | email= | address=Corona 126, Zona Centro | lat=20.67469 | long=-103.34665 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 1315 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:30-00:00 | price= | content=Very popular and very crowded. Traditional food the way mom used to make it, or so they say. The prices are higher here than in other places serving the same fare—but still pretty reasonable. }} ====West of the Centro Histórico==== * {{eat | name=Chop | alt= | url=http://chai.com.mx/ | email= | address=México 2328, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.67946 | long=-103.37558 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 3557 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-Th 08:00-00:00, F Sa 08:00-01:00 | price= | content=Lovely deli midway between Chapultepec and Minerva and owned by a local chain of coffeehouses. Salads, sandwiches and wraps, paninis, calzone and pizza are on the menu, as well as a large selection of breakfasts served daily. Kids' menu. }} * {{eat | name=Kamilos 333 | url=http://www.kamilos333.com | email= | address=José Clemente Orozco 333, Santa Teresita | lat=20.68151 | long=-103.36633 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 7869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 08:00-01:00 | price= | content=Unpretentious, traditional Mexican fare reigns supreme here—Kamilos' menu goes heavy on meat dishes, which are juicy and delicious. Breakfast served daily. Those who don't speak Spanish well may have trouble with the (intentionally) misspelled words on the menu—"camarones" becomes "kamaronez", "quesadilla" is rendered "kezadya", etc. }} * {{eat | name=Tacos Providencia | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/TacosProvidencia/ | email= | address=Rubén Darío 534, Lomas de Guevara | lat=20.68529 | long=-103.38500 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3641 6049 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The tacos this place serves up—particularly the tacos al pastor, the specialty here—have been described as the best in Guadalajara. Quesadillas are also served. }} ====Colonia Americana==== * {{eat | name=Goa... Un Sabor de la India | alt= | url=http://www.goa.com.mx/ | email= | address=López Cotilla 1520, Americana | lat=20.67396 | long=-103.36985 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3615 6173 | tollfree= | hours=M 16:00-22:00, Tu-Sa 13:00-00:00, Su 13:00-19:00 | price= | content=A restaurant specializing in North Indian cuisine served in a lovely and exotic environment. }} ====Tlaquepaque==== * {{eat | name=El Parián | alt= | url=http://business.google.com/website/el-parian/ | email= | address=Corner of Calles Juárez and Progreso, Tlaquepaque Centro | lat=20.63883 | long=-103.31104 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This central square of Tlaquepaque's historic downtown boasts several restaurants with a bandstand in the center. It's a nice place to sit and have a drink or enjoy a meal, with numerous mariachis who will play for you for a small fee and also public performances that begin at 21:30. Gourmets will appreciate the recommendation of El Parian in the 2024 Michelin Guide. }} * {{eat | name=TlaquePasta | url=http://www.quintadonjose.com/tlaquepasta | email= | address=Reforma 139, Tlaquepaque Centro | lat=20.63743 | long=-103.31225 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635 7522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 17:00-22:00, F-Su 14:00-22:00 | price= | content=It's in the '''Quinta Don José Boutique Hotel''', and offers a nice mix of cuisines, with traditional Tapatío dishes rubbing shoulders on the menu with the only Italian specialties available in Tlaquepaque. Great tasting food, attractive setting, and reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=Real San Pedro | url=http://realsanpedro.mx/ | address=Calle Independencia 163, Tlaquepaque Centro | lat=20.639430105392574 | long=-103.31299019533435 | phone=+52 333 659 3631 | hours=Daily 08:00 - 22:00 | price=M$200 | content=Elegant dining room in an historic casona. Food is traditional regional cuisine with moles, enchiladas and more. Extensive tequila list and wine list, as well as mezcals, including some raicillas (a type of mezcal endemic to Jalisco). }} === Splurge === ====Colonia Americana==== * {{eat | name=El Sacromonte | url=http://www.sacromonte.com.mx | email= | address=Pedro Moreno 1398, Americana | lat=20.67574 | long=-103.36609 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 5447 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 13:30-00:00, Su 13:30-18:00 | price= | content= The food here is traditional Mexican served a little more artfully for a more well-off clientele. Subdued, violin-centered mariachis play here in the early afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Suehiro | url=http://www.suehiro.com.mx | email= | address=La Paz 1701, Americana | lat=20.67093 | long=-103.36298 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3826 0094 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 13:30-17:30 and 19:30-23:30, Su 13:00-19:00 | price= | content=Laid-back Japanese restaurant whose gargantuan menu encompasses excellently prepared cuisine in the teppanyaki, nabemono, and tempura cooking styles, as well as a huge selection of sushi and sashimi. Quality and service are beyond compare. Outside is a beautifully landscaped garden complete with koi pond. }} * {{eat | name=Bruna | url= | address=Calle Miguel Lerdo de Tejada 2418 | lat=20.671143629267135 | long=-103.3779290599571 | phone=+52 332 003 0904 | hours=Daily 14:00 - 00:00 | price=M$300 | lastedit=2025-01-28 | content=Contemporary upscale restaurant serving nouveau Mexican cuisine in an elegant dining room overlooking a [[Sculpture|sculpture garden]] that is part of the art gallery housed in the same building. Reservations suggested as this is one of the city's top restaurants. }} * {{eat | name=Santo Coyote | url=https://www.santocoyote.com.mx/ | address= | lat=20.67079229416486 | long=-103.37704929547432 | phone=+52 333 343 2265 | hours=Daily 08:00 - 00:00 | price=M$350 | lastedit=2025-01-28 | content=Elaborate upscale restaurant that re-creates a jungle atmosphere with multiple small dining rooms. The menu is nouveau Mexican with frequent forays into traditionally local flavors of pre-Hispanic cultures. Almost every dish has something wonderfully flavorful but often unknown to foreign tourists, like epazote or huitlacoche. Drinks are equally innovative and most are based on local tequilas or mezcals. Listed in the 2024 Michelin Guide. }} * {{eat | name=Casa Bariachi | alt= | url=http://www.casa-bariachi.com/ | email= | address=Av. Ignacio Vallarta 2221 | lat=20.674601987790936 | long=-103.37829016148969 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3616 9900 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 13:00 - 03:00 | price=M$500 | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=Upscale restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine including grilled meats and regional specialties. Elegant dining room with live music provided by roving mariachis. }} ====West of Centro==== * {{eat | name=Il Duomo | url= | email= | address=de las Américas 302, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.68260 | long=-103.37331 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3615 4952 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 13:30-00:00 | price= | content=Creative Italian cuisine at reasonable prices including pastas, meat dishes and fine wines, served by polite and attentive (but not over-attentive) waitstaff. }} ====Zapopan==== * {{eat | name=Almacén del Bife | url=https://www.almacendelbife.com/ | email= | address=Plaza Andares 4965, Puerta de Hierro, Zapopan | lat=20.71014 | long=-103.41254 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3611 2668 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 13:00-00:00 | price=M$120-800 | content="Beer and wine, our passion" (in translation) is the motto of this Argentinian restaurant in Plaza Andares. In addition, a wide selection of chicken dishes, pastas and a daily seafood special are offered. }} * {{eat | name=Fonda Doña Gabina Escolástica | url= | address=Javier Mina 237, Centro, Zapopan | lat=20.7201585184255 | long=-103.38938190391251 | phone=+52 333 833 0883 | hours=Daily 14:00 - 22:30 | price=M$200 | lastedit=2024-12-24 | content=Traditional regional Mexican restaurant. Recommended by the Michelin Guide whose editors particularly recommend the tostada de pata. Other house specialties include pozole and enchiladas. Large portions, affordable prices. }} ==Drink== Guadalajara has a vibrant nightlife that's spread out all over the city, from the touristy places in the Centro Histórico ('''Plaza de la Liberación''' is a good place to start your search) to the college bars in Zapopan. However, the most active bar district in Guadalajara is in '''Colonia Americana''' centered along '''Avenida Chapultepec''' between Hidalgo and Niños Héroes, about 2 km west of the Centro Histórico. This is the place where GDL's hipster crowd makes the scene, with bar after bar lining the sides of the streets. Many of these places double as popular live music venues. A good suggestion is to search out a bar with a large collection of tequilas and taste a great blanca, reposada and añejo. If you ask for a traditional tequila from Los Altos, you will almost certainly get something good. Los Altos is the region northeast of Guadalajara where the best tequila in the world is made, bringing up images of tradition, patriotism and individualism. ===Centro Histórico=== * {{drink | name=Los Famosos Equipales | url= | email= | address=Juan Álvarez 704, Zona Centro | lat=20.684543 | long=-103.352330 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614 1500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 10:00-00:00, F Sa 22:00-02:30 | price= | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=One of its famous drinks here is named "Las Nalgas Alegres" (Happy Buttocks), which is a delicious pink-colored but deceptively strong concoction. A jukebox plays music constantly, and snacks are available too. }} ===Colonia Americana=== *{{drink | name=El Primer Piso | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Primer-Piso-Bar-120550884698378/ | email= | address=Pedro Moreno 947, Americana | lat=20.675488 | long=-103.358393 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 7085 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 19:30-01:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=A lively and fun jazz bar with good music, good food and a red upholstered ceiling are trademarks. }} *{{drink | name=Cerveceria Loba | url=http://www.cervezaloba.com/ | address=C. Gregorio Dávila 76, Col Americana | lat=20.67807888378071 | long=-103.36119656775809 | phone=+52 332 035 6401 | hours=M-Sa 14:00 - 01:00, closed Su | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Taproom and craft brewery producing several styles of both ales and lagers with stouts, IPAs, goses, and more. }} * {{drink | name=Bar Américas | url=http://baramericas.com.mx/ | address=Av. Chapultepec Sur 507, Col Americana | lat=20.668393366451735 | long=-103.36828002913566 | phone=+52 333 060 3773 | hours=Th-M 12:00 - 07:00, W 20:00 - 00:00 | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Popular techno nightclub that doesn't really get rolling until after 2am. Young, trendy crowd. }} * {{drink | name=Salón del Bosque | alt= | url=http://saloondelbosque.com/ | email= | address=José Guadalupe Zuno 2200, Col. Americana | lat=20.67076 | long=-103.37232 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3616 4297 | tollfree= | hours=M Tu Sa 13:00-23:00, W-F 13:00-01:00 | price= | content=Upscale, laid-back atmosphere featuring live jazz and bossa nova. }} * {{drink | name=Hudson Bar | url= | address=C. Miguel Lerdo de Tejada 2055, Col Americana | lat=20.671295374770683 | long=-103.36987383693541 | phone=+523336152054 | hours=Tu-Th 13:00 - 01:00, F-Sa 13:00 - 02:30, closed Su | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Cool, old-school style bar with live music and a rooftop bar. }} * {{drink | name=Urban Live | url=http://www.theurbanlive.com/ | address=Esq. con Libertad, Av. Chapultepec Sur 177-2do piso, Col Americana | lat=20.673503746071777 | long=-103.3682215961734 | phone=+52 331 328 8482 | hours=F-Sa 20:30 - 03:00, closed Su-Th | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Lively club playing with live bands playing rock in both English and Spanish. }} ===Chapultepec, Zona Rosa and Minerva=== * {{drink | name=Barba Negra | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Barbanegra1988/ | email= | address=Justo Sierra 2194-A, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.67782 | long=-103.37233 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3808 8650 | tollfree= | hours=W Th 13:00-02:00, F 13:00-03:00, Sa 19:30-03:00 | price= | content=Features live rock music. }} * {{drink | name=Grand Fiesta Americana Guadalajara Country Club | alt= | url=https://www.grandfiestamericana.com/grand-fiesta-americana-guadalajara-country-club | email= | address=Av. de las Américas 1551, Providencia | lat=20.70293 | long=-103.37655 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3648 3535 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-12-01 | content=Try the rooftop bar here if you feel like something unique. }} ===Zapopan=== * {{drink | name=Mayas Bar | alt= | url=https://mayas-bar.business.site/ | email= | address=Prol. 20 De Noviembre 351, Zapopan | lat=20.72016 | long=-103.38803 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3633 4684 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10ː00-01ː00, Sa Su 10ː00-03ː00 | price= | content=This laid-back place in downtown Zapopan features food, drink and occasional live music. }} ==Sleep== If you plan to spend much time downtown, don't get a hotel farther away—it's much more convenient to be within walking distance of your daytime activities. ===Budget === There are many inexpensive hotels available in the city center, especially around the old bus station ''(Central Vieja / Antigua)''. ====in the Centro Histórico and around:==== *{{sleep | name=Hostel Hospedarte Guadalajara Centro | url=http://www.hostelguadalajara.com | email= | address=Maestranza 147, Zona Centro | lat=20.67447 | long=-103.34557 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3562 7520 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content=This youth hostel is in a stately National Heritage building from the 19th century. Reading room, common area with TV, free wireless Internet. Organized tours to [[Tequila]] leave regularly from the hostel, including two distilleries. }} ====in Colonia Americana:==== * {{sleep | name=Hostal Casa Colores | alt= | url=https://casacoloreshostal.mxhotel.site/en/ | email= | address=Calle Efraín González Luna 1844, Col Americana | lat=20.66995 | long=-103.36537 | directions= | phone=+52 33 2688 8523 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$300 | lastedit=2025-02-05 | content=Has sun deck, garden, movie nights, shared kitchen, walking tours, bar crawls, a library, and wifi. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostel Hospedarte Chapultepec | alt= | url=http://hospedartehostels.com/ | email= | address=Calle Efraín González Luna 2075, Col Americana | lat=20.66969 | long=-103.37026 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3615 4957 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$340 | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-05 | content=The counterpart to the downtown Hostel Hospedarte; if you stay at this one, you'll be close to the Chapultepec venues. This hostel includes a free breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Bohostel | url=http://www.bohostel.mx/ | address=Calle Efraín González Luna 2097, Col Americana | lat=20.670188145321415 | long=-103.37019301230436 | phone=+52 33 2832 2469 | checkin=14:00 | checkout=11:00 | price=M$400 | lastedit=2025-02-01 | content=Clean, comfortable rooms in a friendly atmosphere. Rooftop lounge area and a cafe on the ground floor. Has private rooms but bathrooms are shared. Mature clientele. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Irake | url=https://www.casairake.com/ | address=Calle Francisco I. Madero 1038, Col Americana | lat=20.673962460611225 | long=-103.36195326629003 | phone=+52 33 1902 1140 | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$700 | lastedit=2025-02-01 | content=Attractively decorated home with comfortable private rooms as well as beds in a dorm with shared bath. Common areas include a rooftop terrace. }} ====around the Old Bus Station (Antigua) south of the Centro Histórico:==== The stated prices here are as of December 2021 for two persons per night and only when reserved directly at the hotel. All listed hotel rooms are with private bathroom, hot water and without A/C. Be mindful of security as this neighborhood is sketchy at the best of times. * {{sleep | name=Hotel Costa Brava| url= | email= | address= Calz Independencia Sur 739| lat= 20.6642820 | long= -103.3475740 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$320 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Flamingos| url= | email= | address= Calz Independencia Sur 725| lat= 20.6644787| long= -103.3474278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$350 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Canada| url= | email= | address= Av. Miguel Alemán 911| lat=20.6630476 | long= -103.3464129| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$320 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Susy| url= | email= | address= C. Analco 791, Las Conchas| lat=20.6613582 | long= -103.3426719| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$250 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Hotel Royal| url= | email= | address=C. Los Ángeles 115-B| lat= 20.6634199| long=-103.3455653| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$275 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Union| url= | email= | address=Av. Dr. Roberto Michel 218| lat= 20.6631966| long= -103.3458671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$270 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} ===Mid-Range=== ====in the Centro Histórico and around:==== * {{sleep | name=Real Maestranza Hotel | alt= | url=https://realmaestranzahotel.com/index.html | email= | address=Calle Francisco I. Madero 161 | lat=20.67357 | long=-103.34564 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 6101 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=around M$1,000 | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-12-02 | content=A boutique hotel with some old world charm such as interior murals and arches. It has a breakfast buffet and restaurant and bar. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel de Mendoza | url=http://www.demendoza.com.mx | email= | address=Venustiano Carranza 16, Zona Centro | lat=20.67796 | long=-103.34434 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3942 5151 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=around M$1,000 (Dec 2021) | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | content=At the Hotel de Mendoza, guests can stay in a peaceful, airy ambience within walking distance of all Centro Histórico destinations. Rooms (including suites) include free WiFi, 32-inch flat screen TVs, and charming colonial decor; the hotel also has a business center, gym, restaurant and outdoor pool. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel San Francisco Plaza | url=http://www.sanfranciscohotel.com.mx | email= | address=Degollado 267, Zona Centro | lat=20.67264 | long=-103.34526 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 3256 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=around M$900(Dec 2021) | checkin=12:00 | checkout=14:00 | content= In operation since 1986, this colonial-style hotel is a few blocks from the storied Teatro Degollado and is centered on two covered courtyards. There are some awful rooms, so it's worth talking to the person you reserve with to see what it will cost to get a room on one of the courtyards, on an upper floor, and away from the north side of the building where there is quite a bit of traffic. Merced is a good guy to talk with about this or anything else. Although he denies being "el jefe", he seems to be in charge. Air conditioning, full baths, free WiFi. Suites available. Personal laundry available for a small fee. Breakfasts at the hotel restaurant ("Don Quijote") are very good. Beatriz, the usual morning waitress, is a bundle of sunshine. }} ====in Minerva, Chapultepec, Zapopan and west of the Centro Histórico:==== * {{sleep | name=Fiesta Americana | alt= | url=https://www.fiestamericana.com/en/hotels-resorts/fiesta-americana-guadalajara | email= | address=Av, Calle Aurelio Aceves No. 225, Vallarta Poniente | lat=20.67361 | long=-103.38916 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3818 1400 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | price= | content=The Fiesta Americana is in a quiet yet hip residential area in the shadow of the Glorieta de la Minerva monument. Its lively nightclub attracts its share of hip young locals. It's a business hotel, minutes from the World Trade Center Guadalajara and has the city's second-largest convention center. Each room has a coffeemaker, minibar, and cable television, with deluxe rooms also have individual sofas with footrests and phones. Business center and room service operate 24 hours a day. The hotel offers a fitness center, laundry, dry cleaning and ironing service, gift shop, currency exchange, concierge, restaurant, airport shuttle.. There's free high-speed wireless Internet all over the property. Parking comes with complimentary valet service. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel NH Guadalajara | url=http://www.nh-hotels.com/nh/en/hotels/mexico/guadalajara/nh-guadalajara.html | email= | address=Sao Paulo 2334, Providencia | lat=20.70173 | long=-103.37709 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3648 9500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$1083/night | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | content=A luxury business hotel next to Country Club Guadalajara in the heart of one of the city's financial districts, this high-rise hotel has 137 guest rooms with contemporary decor, amenities, and, in many cases, views over the city. Free WiFi, fitness center, restaurant ("Nhube") and garden bar, conference center, concierge services and complimentary shoeshine. Suites available. }} * {{sleep | name=IbeuroHotel | alt= | url=http://www.ibeurohotel.com.mx | email= | address=Mariano Otero 3235, Fraccionamiento Valle Verde | lat=20.65376 | long=-103.39316 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3134 3230 | tollfree= | checkin=13:00 | checkout=12:30 | price=around M$700 (Dec 2021) | content=Decent prices here, but you get what you pay for. For a large business hotel—one directly next to the Expo Guadalajara convention center, no less—this place skimps on the amenities. Still, the rooms are clean and all the basics are covered: color television, air conditioning, telephone, free wireless Internet, laundry and dry cleaning. Adequate if unimpressive food is served in the cafeteria. Private covered parking lot. }} * {{sleep | name=La Mansión del Sol | url=http://www.lamansiondelsol.com/ | email= | address=Moctezuma 1596, Ciudad del Sol, Zapopan | lat=20.65110 | long=-103.40840 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3647 4762 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=around M$1,000 (Dec 2021) | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | content="Modern yet unmistakably Mexican" is a good way to describe the decor of this luxury boutique hotel in Zapopan. Manicured exterior with sitting areas, a fountain, palm trees and ubiquitous hummingbirds surround this lovely property whose airy rooms boast all the modern amenities: 32" LCD flat-screen TV's, CD stereo system, alarm clock, hair dryer, workspace, free wireless Internet, ironing board, and dessert minibars. Other amenities include an on-site bar and restaurant ("Los Colibríes"), laundry and dry-cleaning service, sauna and steam room, business center, gym, complimentary continental breakfast, and room service. }} * {{sleep | name=Del Marqués Hotel and Suites | alt= | url=http://delmarques.com/ | email= | address=Victoriano Salado Álvarez 72, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.6772 | long=-103.38117 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 3048 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=around M$700 (Dec 2021) | content=An all-suite property near the charming Minerva district. The living areas, kitchenettes, and work areas all have modern decor and amenities such as air conditioning and free WiFi. Some suites also have full kitchens. There's also a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Villa Ganz | url=http://en.villaganz.com | email= | address=Calle Manuel López Cotilla 1739, Col Americana | lat=20.67355| long=-103.37223 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3120 1416 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$1062/night | checkin= | checkout= | content=In the heart of the Zona Rosa. A 1930s mansion-turned-boutique hotel. Villa Ganz's ten suites are named after Jalisciense author Juan Rolfo's literary creations. Amenities include air conditioning, cable TV, hair dryers, and free WiFi, antique furnishings and decor, custom-designed toiletries, designer bathrobes and slippers, bedding and duvets containing imported goose, bookcases containing a wide-ranging selection of literature, and elegant French doors looking out either onto the peaceful garden or lively Avenida López Cotilla. A concierge is on staff. Guests at Villa Ganz also receive complimentary access to the Kristal Century gym, one block away from the hotel—this includes yoga, Pilates, and dance classes. Complimentary breakfast is served, as well as wine and appetizers in the evening. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Velvet Plaza | alt= | url=http://hotelvelvetplaza.com/ | email= | address=Av. Ignacio L. Vallarta 2477, Arcos Vallarta | lat=20.67427 | long=-103.38209 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3882 4500 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=M$842 | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-01 | content=Rooftop pool for relaxing and city views and a restaurant that serves breakfast are some of the perks at this mid-city hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Venezuela | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Venezuela 459, Col Americana | lat=20.66989 | long=-103.36301 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3826 6590 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | content=This charming B&B a few blocks off hip Avenida Chapultepec has three rooms decorated in Old Mexico style. Guest rooms have hair dryers, and TVs with DVD player. The breakfast offers American and Mexican specialties served on locally-produced crockery. Complimentary cocktails are served on the terrace each evening. The American-born owner, George, has an encyclopedic knowledge about everything Guadalajara and the surrounding vicinity have to offer. }} ====in Tlaquepaque and east of the Centro Histórico:==== *{{sleep | name=Hotel La Calandria | alt= | url=http://www.lascalandrias.com.mx/ | email= | address=Estadio 100, Las Conchas | lat=20.66270 | long=-103.34597 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3619 6579 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=What this hotel lacks in luxury, it more than makes up for in old-Mexico charm. A very clean and generally very nice property for very reasonable prices. Bilingual staff, WiFi available in public areas. It's a short distance south of the Centro Histórico, near Parque Agua Azul and the old bus station, where buses leave regularly for popular regional destinations such as Cocula and Tequila. On-street parking, but there are many free parking lots available (including Walmart, which is also nearby). }} * {{sleep | name=Quinta Don José | url=http://www.quintadonjose.com | email= | address=Reforma 139, Tlaquepaque Centro, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.63745 | long=-103.31222 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635 7522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | content=Charming 19-room boutique hotel in the heart of Old Tlaquepaque. Amenities include high-speed WiFi, cable TV, air conditioning, complimentary continental breakfast (a full breakfast featuring traditional Mexican favorites is also available for an extra fee), an onsite tequila bar and restaurant ('''TlaquePasta'''). Landscaped exterior, tiled pool, manicured gardens, and a leafy terrace. Airy, sun-drenched rooms decorated with Old Mexican traditionalism and contemporary simplicity. The hotel organizes group tours of the artisan workshops that have made Tlaquepaque famous, and excursions to the Laguna de Chapala, Guachimontones, Tequila, and downtown Guadalajara (20 minutes away by car). }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Quinta Real Guadalajara | alt= | url=https://www.grupocaminoreal.com/quinta-real-guadalajara | email= | address=Av. Mexico 2727 | lat=20.679503 | long=-103.385203 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3669 0600 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=M$2500 | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=Elegant, traditional hotel with classic [[Haciendas|hacienda]]-style design. Rooms are large, clean, and opulently furnished, including high-end toiletries and quality linens. An on-site restaurant serves an extensive breakfast buffet that includes fresh fruits, baked sweet breads, and made-to-order omelettes. }} ==Stay safe== Guadalajara is known as one of the safest cities in Mexico. Nonetheless, as in any large city, the usual precautions should be taken. Crimes against tourists and foreign students are quite infrequent and mostly take the form of purse-snatching. Criminals usually work in teams and target travelers in outdoor restaurants, bars and other busy places. Should anyone spill something on you, be alert to your surroundings and step away—accidental spills are a common method of distracting their marks. ''Never'' carry illegal substances with you; Mexican police are very strict regarding these cases. '''In case of emergency, dial 911''', the number for all emergencies (fire, police and medical) in Mexico. English-speaking operators are not guaranteed, but are often available. In an emergency, it's also a good idea to contact your embassy or consulate. For non-emergencies, dial 078 to reach the [[Driving in Mexico#Green Angels|Green Angels]], an English-speaking [[Automobile associations|roadside and travel assistance program]]. ===Drug cartels=== Like most of Mexico's Pacific coast states, regional drug cartels are known to operate in [[Jalisco]]. These cartels have strong incentives to keep money flowing at popular places, which requires peace and safety for visitors. In February 2026, a security operation against a Jalisco drug cartel sparked clashes throughout the region, including in tourist areas that have largely avoided attacks in the past. Vehicles and stores were looted, stolen and set on fire. From a traveler's perspective, this turned out to be more of a violent demonstration than a deadly attack, as there were no deaths reported other than security forces and suspected cartel members. Nonetheless, flights were cancelled and tourists were advised to shelter in place until the situation settled down over the next few days. Drug cartels commonly use arson to create chaos, especially by creating roadblocks that slow security response and grind a city to a halt. Keep your supply of treated drinking water topped off and keep around things to snack on, in case shops close or you're stuck in your hotel due to any number of possible natural or man-made disasters. ===Football=== Due to the intense rivalry between local club Chivas and [[Mexico City]]-based Club América, you should avoid wearing Club América jerseys in Guadalajara unless you want to risk getting singled out for harassment or worse by local fans. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== Most consulates are honorary which means they offer limited services to travelers and their nationals living in the area and usually available by appointment or in emergencies only. The nearest city for additional foreign consulates is in [[Mexico City#Embassies|Mexico City]]: * {{flag|Canada}} {{listing | name=Canada | alt= | url=https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/mexico-mexique/guadalajara.aspx?lang=eng| email= | address=World Trade Center, Av. Mariano Otero 1249, Torre Pacifico Piso 8, Col. Rinconada del Bosque, C.P. 44530 Guadalajara| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +52 33 1818-4200 | fax= +52 33 1818-4210 | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-24 | content=Call collect +1 613 996 8885 for emergencies only. }} * {{flag|Colombia}} {{listing | name=Colombia | alt= | url=https://guadalajara.consulado.gov.co/ | email= | address=Ave Acueducto 4851, Piso 10, Interior 2 y 4, Edificio Corporativo Acueducto | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 4737-5700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-25 | content=+52 33 1990-4857 for emergencies only. }} * {{flag|El Salvador}} {{listing | name=El Salvador| alt= | url=https://rree.gob.sv/servicios-consulares/| email= | address=Galeria Exhimoda Av. Ignacio L. Vallarta 3233, local 12-F, C.P. 44110 Guadalajara | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3685-9415 | tollfree=800-747-6117 | hours=M-F 09:00-17:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-24 | content=Click this [https://portalcitas.rree.gob.sv/ link] to make an online appointment }} * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany (Honorary) | alt= | url=https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/about-us/auslandsvertretungen/740206-740206 | email= | address=Calle 7 No. 319, Colonia Ferrocarril, C.P. 44440 Guadalajara. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3810-2146| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-25 | content= }} * {{flag|Guatemala}} {{listing | name=Guatemala | alt= | url=https://www.minex.gob.gt/din/2953-consulado-honorario-de-guatemala-en-guadalajara | email=cruza@prodigy.net.mx. | address=Mango 1440-A, Colonia del Fresno, C.P. 44500, Guadalajara | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3811 1503 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 09:00-14:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-24 | content=Look them on [https://www.facebook.com/EmbaGuateMexico/ Facebook] }} * {{flag|Netherlands}} {{listing | name=Netherlands (Honorary) | alt= | url=https://www.netherlandsandyou.nl/web/mexico-en/about-us/honorary-consul-guadalajara | email= | address=Calle Ottawa 1360, Col Providencia, C.P. 44630 Guadalajara | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 4545-8115 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-25 | content= }} * {{flag|Spain}} {{listing | name=Spain | url=https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Consulados/guadalajara/ | email= | address=Avenida Pablo Neruda No. 2710, 5 piso, Edificio ALTUS. Colonia Providencia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 0450 | tollfree= | fax=+52 33 3616 0396 | hours=M-F 09ː00 - 13ː00, closed Sa-Su | price= | content=The consulate provides a range of services to Spanish citizens traveling or living in Mexico, including birth certificates, travel documents, and official government records. Visa or permit services are also available to Mexicans and other foreigners traveling to or doing business in Spain. Persons with other official business can contact the embassy in [[Mexico City]].) }} * {{flag|Romania}} {{listing | name=Romania (Honorary) | url=https://mae.ro/romanian-missions/3395#861 | email=consulrumania@grupocube.com | address=Torre Cube, Blvd. Puerta de Hierro 5210 Piso 12 –C, Colonia Puerta de Hierro, Zapopan | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 334 35 100, + 52 33 334 35 200 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Honorary Consulate (Does not provide consular services. Instead, Romanian citizens in need of assistance should contact the embassy in [[Mexico City]].) }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States | url=https://mx.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/guadalajara/ | email=usconsulategdl@megared.net.mx; acsgdl@state.gov | address=Progreso 175, Americana | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3268 2100 | tollfree= | fax=+52 33 3826 6549 | hours=M-Th 09:00-13:00 | price= | content= }} == Go next == Your next destination for staying can be...: ===To the east=== *'''[[Guanajuato]]''' – 275 km. A beautiful mountain colonial town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A variety of mines are there to be visited. In the evening you can join traditionally dressed Mexicans singing and walking through the old-town. *'''[[San Miguel de Allende]]''' – 340 km. A city known for relaxing. There are thermal pools just outside the city. The old town is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. *'''[[Querétaro]]''' – 360 km. Capital of the state Quéretaro. A big aqueduct goes through the city. You can taste a Gordita Queretana. The old town is – you guess it – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ===To the north-east=== *'''[[San Juan de los Lagos]]''' – 145 km. The second-most visited pilgrimage site in Mexico (after the Basílica de Guadalupe in Mexico City). *'''[[San Luis Potosí]]''' – 330 km. The capital of the state of San Luis Potosí. The historic center displays a great mixture of different artistic styles and is a major example of colonial architecture in Mexico. The historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ===To the west=== *'''[[Puerto Vallarta]]''' – 330 km. Nearby are the coastal villages [[Bucerias]], [[Sayulita]] and [[San Francisco (Mexico)]] ===To the north-west=== *'''[[Tepic]]''' – 205 km. The capital of Nayarit *'''[[Mazatlan]]''' – It's recommended to take a flight into and out of the city. ===By air=== Guadalajara has low-cost flights for example to: *'''[[Cabo San Lucas]]''' and '''[[La Paz (Mexico)|La Paz]]''' on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. * '''[[Oaxaca (city)|Oaxaca]]''' * '''[[Tuxtla Gutiérrez|Tuxtla]]''' in Chiapas * '''[[Puerto Vallarta]]''' and '''[[Puerto Escondido]]''' at the Pacific coast * '''[[Cancún]]''' and '''[[Mérida (Mexico)|Mérida]]''' on the Yucatan peninsula * '''[[Mexico City]]''' {{routebox | image1=Carretera federal 15.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Tepic]] | minorl1=[[Tequila]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Zamora de Hidalgo]] | minorr1=[[San Luis Soyatlán]] }} {{isPartOf|Jalisco}} {{guidecity}} {{geo|20.666667|-103.35}} a5m9onyrksl9elr074jnsskardpol4o 5288903 5288902 2026-06-06T16:44:57Z Mrkstvns 144844 /* Out of town trips */ 5288903 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Guadalajara banner.jpg|dotm=yes|unesco_whs=yes|unesco_ich=yes}} [[File:Guadalajara´s Cathedral, Jalisco, Mexico.jpg|thumb|275px|Guadalajara Cathedral viewed from north side of Plaza de Guadalajara]] '''Guadalajara''' is the capital of the central state of [[Jalisco]] in [[Mexico]], and the second-largest city in the country, with about a million and a half citizens (known as "Tapatíos"). It is considered a colonial city, though much of its architecture dates from the independence period. Although it has a far more relaxed feel than [[Mexico City]], the city center can still seem a bit stuffy and dusty, especially during rush hour when the sun is out. All in all, however, it is a lovely city and contains many nice areas for walking, not just in the center. === Welcome World Cup fans === Guadalajara is one of the 16 North American cities that will host soccer matches for the [[2026 FIFA World Cup]]. Games scheduled for Guadalajara will be played in '''Estadio Akron''' in the northern suburb of '''Zapopan'''. Here are a few tips for football fansː * Akron Stadium is 31 km from Guadalajara International Airport, an airport taxi will take 40-60 minutes to get to Zapopan, depending on traffic * the '''closest hotels''' are in Zapopan, and although Google Maps shows some within 0.5 km of the stadium, they are actually a 4 km walk (or drive) because there is no direct road between the hotels and the stadium. These will still be the most conveniently located hotels for fans with game tickets. Close hotels include '''SR Hotel''', '''One Guadalajara Periférico Poniente''', and '''Holiday Inn Express Guadalajara Vallarte Poniente'''. * the '''best way to get to the stadium''' will probably be '''Uber''' because there are several busy streets and a complex major highway interchange near the stadium that make the area unfriendly to pedestrians. Plan to get dropped off or picked up away from the stadium as there will be no designated drop off and pickup zone. Public transit is an excellent optionː use the MiMacro bus-rapid-transit (BRT), Line 7 to '''Estadio Chivas'''. The station is about a 1.5 km walk to the stadium. If you plan to drive, the city has set up 10 designated satellite parking areas with shuttle buses to the stadium. These parking lots require pre-registration, cost M$500 (US$25). Registration and info is [https://boletomovil.com/guadalajara-fwc-2026 on the web page]. * the '''best neighborhood''' for upscale '''restaurants''' and fun '''nightclubs''' is Americano. There are also several good hotels in this highly walkable neighborhood * the city has an extensive '''public transit''' system that is cheap and reliable. It consists of a subway/light rail system called ''MiTren'', a bus-rapid transit system (BRT) called ''MiMacro'' and buses called ''MiBus'' serving local neighborhoods. You can get to most parts of the city with these services, though '''Uber''' is always a convenient and safe option for getting around ==Understand== {{climate chart |Guadalajara |10.6 |24.1 |16.3 |11.9 |26.2 |11.0 |13.5 |28.5 |8.3 |15.6 |30.5 |3.8 |17.2 |31.9 |26.3 |17.2 |30.1 |183.8 |16.2 |27.4 |271.3 |16.3 |27.2 |220.5 |16.4 |26.7 |193.7 |15.3 |26.7 |58.8 |12.9 |25.6 |12.3 |11.1 |24.3 |7.4 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Guadalajara]] |description= }} Guadalajara is Mexico's second largest city, and one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the country. This growth has been driven in part by the booming electronics industry in the industrial outskirts of the city. Other important and growing industries are pharmaceuticals, food processing, and fashion. ===Orientation=== [[Image:MorelosStreetGDLMX.JPG|thumb|Calle de Morelos]] Guadalajara proper is divided into four districts corresponding approximately to the northwest, northeast, southwest, and southeast quarters of the city. At the center of everything is the main area of interest to tourists, the '''Centro Histórico''', or the historic downtown. Most of your time will probably be spent here. It is filled with colonial-era buildings and, famously, also boasts several important [[Mexican muralism|mural paintings]] by Jalisco-born José Clemente Orozco, one of Mexico's most important artists and one of the "Big Three" artists of the muralism period. Outside the Centro Histórico are: * '''Sector Hidalgo'''— in northwest of the Centro Histórico, Hidalgo is a largely residential sector encompassing the financial district and the '''[http://www.gcc.com.mx/ Country Club Guadalajara]'''. * '''Sector Libertad'''— northeast of the Centro Histórico, Sector Libertad is mostly given over to industrial use. However, the southwest part of the sector, close to the Centro Histórico, boasts a traditional market ('''Mercado Libertad''') and the '''Plaza de los Mariachis'''. * '''Sector Juárez'''— southwest of the Centro Histórico, Sector Juárez is a shoppers' paradise: it boasts two shopping malls ('''Centro Magno''' and '''Galerias'''), as well as the popular '''Minerva''', '''Chapultepec''', and '''Zona Rosa''' shopping areas. * '''Sector Reforma'''— southeast of the Centro Histórico, Reforma is also a mostly industrial sector, but visitors will no doubt be interested in the pleasant, tree-filled '''Parque Agua Azul''', as well as the '''Tianguis Cultural de Guadalajara''', a street market where alternative clothing and articles such as spiked belts, black trenchcoats, military uniforms, used books and trading cards are for sale at good prices. [[File:Calles GDL.svg|Streets of Guadalajara|thumb|350px]] Still further from central Guadalajara are several suburbs (''municipios'') that are cities in their own right. Several of these are also of interest to visitors, including: *'''Tlaquepaque''' — about 30 minutes by car southeast of the Centro Histórico, downtown Tlaquepaque is a charming streetscape redolent of old Mexico. An important arts and crafts center, Tlaquepaque has a vibrant shopping district where you can buy local pottery and handicrafts, as well as many lovely restaurants, art galleries, and a regional ceramics museum. *'''Tonalá''' — immediately east of Tlaquepaque, Tonalá contains Guadalajara's main bus station, handicraft shops and markets, and the large '''Parque Solidaridad'''. *'''Zapopan''' — a large, busy suburb northwest of Guadalajara, is famous for the old-fashioned charm of its downtown, its active nightlife fueled by the three large private universities within the city limits ('''Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara''', '''Tecnológico de Monterrey''' and '''Universidad del Valle de Atemajac'''), its proliferation of modern shopping malls that will make American suburbanites feel right at home, and—by contrast—also large expanses of pristine nature, such as the '''Bosque de Colomos''' and the gargantuan '''Bosque La Primavera'''. The 275-diagonal bus route runs from Tlaquepaque through the Centro to Zapopan, providing convenient access to all of these outer districts. ===History=== The co-founders of Guadalajara were Doña Beatriz de Hernández and Governor Cristobal de Oñate. In the Plaza de los Fundadores there is a monument in honor of both of them. Guadalajara, and Jalisco in general, were the epicenter of the '''Cristero Wars''' (1926-1929) — a rebellion by Catholic guerrillas against the secularizing reforms of President Plutarco Calles. One of the first armed conflicts of the rebellion took place in Guadalajara in the '''Santuario de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe''' on August 3, 1926, where a group of several hundred Cristeros engaged in a shootout with federal troops. Guadalajara was attacked (unsuccessfully) by the Cristero armies in March 1929. In the 1950s, Avenida Juárez was widened to create today's arterial road of Juárez-Vallarta which you see today. A famous part of that work was the moving of the central telephone exchange without the disruption of service. Pictures of this feat of engineering can be seen in the '''City Museum''' ''(Museo de la Ciudad)''. In April 1992, Sector Reforma was rocked by a huge explosion of gasoline, when a gasoline pipeline leaked into the sewers over a period of days until the fumes finally detonated. Some 200 Tapatíos were killed and several thousand injured. The explosion affected mostly the working-class and industrial areas on the south side of the city. In May 1993, Cardinal Juan Jesús Posadas Ocampo of Guadalajara was killed at the Guadalajara airport. Though at the time the murder was thought to have been some sort of politically motivated assassination, subsequent investigations favor the theory that the cardinal was caught by mistake in drug-related violence, his motorcade having been mistaken for that of a drug lord. Cardinal Ocampo is buried beneath the high altar of the '''Catedral de Guadalajara''', probably because it was first suspected that the motives for his murder were political, rather than accidental. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Aeropuerto Internacional de Guadalajara Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla | alt={{IATA|GDL}} | url=http://www.aeropuertosgap.com.mx/ | email= | address= | lat=20.521837 | long=-103.311145 | directions=south of city along the Guadalajara-Chapala Highway | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Guadalajara International Airport | wikidata=Q932025 | lastedit=2017-01-03 | content=Airlines serving GDL include [http://www.aeromexico.com AeroMexico], [http://www.alaskaair.com/ Alaska Airlines], [http://www.aa.com/ American Airlines], [http://www.copaair.com/ Copa Airlines], [http://www.delta.com/ Delta], [http://www.united.com United], [http://www.vivaaerobus.com VivaAerobus], and [http://www.volaris.mx Volaris].}} At the airport, always buy the taxi chit from the booth before exiting the terminal, then present it to the licensed driver. Many hotels offer airport pickups that can be cheaper. Uber drivers are not allowed to pick up passengers at the airport. A common way to get around this limitation is to walk outside the airport a few minutes away to the nearby UPS distribution center (labeled as "Centro de Envios UPS" on Google maps). Set your Uber pick up location at this UPS center, which is outside the airport's restrictions and a driver will pick you up there. The app Moovit finds a better bus connection from the airport to your accommodation than Google Maps (as of Dec 2021). The bus stops at the bottom of Terminal 1 and goes to the '''Old Bus Station''' close to the Centro Histórico and costs M$9.50 (Dec 2021). To get to the bus station of the airport, take a right upon exiting the airport building and follow the signs to the "Terminal Terrestre." Walk past the police station and FedEx building. Pay when getting on the bus. There is a bus station inside the airport for the Chapala bus line. Buses leaving the airport go to the Central Vieja (Old Bus Station) downtown, as well as to towns around Lake Chapala, including [[Chapala]] and [[Ajijic]]. The buses operate from 06:00 - 21:00. ===By bus=== Guadalajara has two bus stations: [[File:CentralCamionesGDL.jpg|thumb|Ticket counters in the Central de Autobuses]] * {{marker | type=go | name=Central de Autobuses Guadalajara | alt=New Bus Station | lat=20.621432 | long=-103.285841}} – This is the new main bus station in the suburb of Tlaquepaque, which serves all long-distance routes (generally those which leave the state of Jalisco). This is a large, regional bus hub with numerous bus companies and space to load and unload 100 or more buses at a time. It is a clean, modern station with waiting rooms and restaurants. Restrooms are clean but require payment of M$7 (coins only). From this bus station to the Centro Histórico it's particularly convenient by subway (MiTren). If you arrive by bus and want to use the train, look across the parking lot as you exit the terminal. Note the location of the red Kentucky Fried Chicken sign. Walk towards KFC, to the left of the parking lot, then turn left in front of KFC and cross the street. You will be in the train station. A trip anywhere the train goes will cost 10 pesos (9.50 per ride if you buy a card). * {{marker | type=go | name=Central Vieja| alt=Old Bus Station | address=Calle Los Angeles 218 | lat= 20.6629237 | long= -103.3449105}} - Just south of downtown, a few blocks from the San Juan de Dios marketplace, the Central Vieja is served by regional second-class bus lines to nearby pueblos such as [[Tequila]], [[Mazamitla]], [[Sayula]] and [[Chapala]]. There are many bus lines serving almost every corner of the state of Jalisco. The buses themselves are often clean and very comfortable, and are sometimes indistinguishable from the first-class buses operated on long-distance routes. Fares are very reasonable, for example M$80 (US$4) to Chapala, M$100 (US$5) to Mazamitla. It is advisable to use an Uber or taxi to and from the station as the surrounding area has quite a bit of crime and is regarded as dangerous for outsiders. ===By van=== If you come from '''León''' and want to take a '''second-class van''' to Guadalajara: '''[https://roll-bits.com/ Roll&bits]''' has daily rides for about M$200 (May 2022). Just book your ticket online on their website. The vans have a big trunk for luggage. === By carpooling === From and to Puerto Vallarta it's around M$300 (Nov 2021) on Blablacar. ===By car=== *'''Federal Highway 15''' ''(Carretera Federal 15)'' connects Guadalajara with Mexico City to the east. ==Get around== {{mapframe|20.666667|-103.35|zoom=12}} The Centro (downtown) is best accessible by walking. Most attractions lie within an area of about 1 km long by 350 m wide. For longer trips, or to get in and out of the Centro, use the bus, subway or a taxi. There are also '''horse-drawn carriages''' ''(calandrias)'', which are more expensive and touristy. ===By e-hailing=== Uber, Cabify and Didi cover the city. ===By bike=== Guadalajara integrates bike rentals in its urban transportation plan. Racks of sturdy rental bikes, most painted green and emblazoned with "Mi Bici" logos, are located in high traffic areas including many city parks, Metro stations, and bus stops. The [https://www.mibici.net/en/ Mi Bici web site] provides a site map showing the locations of bike rental kiosks. Bikes can be rented via an annual subscription (about M$470) or on a temporary basis. Traffic can be chaotic on city streets, but the local government is making good progress in setting aside dedicated traffic lanes for bikes. ===By bus=== For finding connections, Moovit and Google Maps cover the city including the subway. Regular buses are green or red and have a "Mi Transporte" logo on the side, they cost M$9.50 (Dec 2023) and cover almost every city street. You can pay with the public transport card or in cash. You don't get change. If paying with a bill, you can fold it and push it through the coin slot inside the bus. Most bus stops have a signpost with a blue sign and a picture of a bus as well as triangular markings on the road with the word ''parada'' (bus stop). Route numbers and final destinations are shown on a lighted display on front of the bus and next to the door. When you wait for a bus, check the ''destination screen'', the ''windshield'' and on the ''left of the front door'', to be sure it's your bus line. It might be good to always ask the bus driver if he goes to your destination. '''Metropolitan Area Mass Transit System''' ''(Sistema de Transporte Colectivo de la Zona Metropolitana)'' is the local transit authority. Check their web site for maps, schedules, and fare information. Alternatively, try [http://www.buscaturuta.com Busca Tu Ruta]{{Dead link|date=February 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Search for Your Route). One particularly useful method for getting back and forth between the Centro Histórico and the Zona Rosa/Minerva area is the '''Guadalajara Trolley Bus''' ("Mi Trole"). Westbound trolleys travel along Avenida Vallarta; eastbound trolleys along Avenida Hidalgo. Just look overhead for the pair of electrical power cables. In the Centro Histórico you can catch the Trolebús on Avenida Hidalgo up to the east side of the Plaza de la Liberación, where it makes the turn to head up to Calzada Independencia and back west. There is also an open-top double-decker '''tourist bus''' ''(TuriBus)'' that leaves from the Rotunda and will take you past all the main sites in Guadalajara, Tlaquepaque and Zapopan. Riders can get on and off the bus at will all day long, for a flat rate. Tour operators use luxury buses (such as Turquesa, Tour and Cardenal). [[File:GDL megabus.jpg|thumb|Mi Macro]] Guadalajara has a modern bus rapid-transit (BRT) system that operates along two lines. The system is called Macrobus (or simply '''Mi Macro'''). It consists of articulated double-length buses that run in dedicated lanes. They are often twice as fast as using Mi Bus (or even Ubers). The fare is M$9.50, but is most conveniently paid with a 10-peso coin at the turnstiles (no change, but who cares since it's half a peso). * '''Calzada''' runs diagonally southwest-northeast, crossing the Centro Historico at "Bicentenario", which connects to the "Independencia" station for ''Mi Tren'' (subway). The Calzada line stops at the Central de Autobuses and is also useful for visiting "Tlaqapaque Centro". An extension to the airport is under construction. * '''Periferico''' is 3/4 of a loop around the city. The line is a 42 km long arc with 42 stations. ===By taxi=== Taxis are another option if you don't want to try to figure out the buses. You can either agree on a price with the cab driver or ask him to turn the meter on. Using the latter option, there is a risk that the driver won't the take the shortest possible route if he thinks you don't know it yourself. The meter will normally be a better price than the price the hotel will tell you to pay if they call you a cab. As always, be sure to ask the fare before you get in. Cabs cost more at night or when they have to cross the outer ring ''(Anillo Periférico)'' of the city. At night, the prices are doubled. If the driver is using a meter, there's also a starting price. Fares to and from the airport are set. If arriving at the Guadalajara airport, a taxi monopoly provides the service from the airport. Pay for your taxi ride at the booths outside of the arrival halls. You can take a normal taxi ''to'' the airport, though. ===By subway=== [[File:Metro_Guadalajara_map.svg|thumb|Guadalajara subway map]] [[File:GDL Metro.jpg|thumb|Mi Tren in Guadalajara]] There is a light-rail '''subway system''' (''Tren Ligero'' or ''Mi Tren'') that can be useful for travelers. There are three lines with two that meet at the western edge of the Centro Histórico, and a third that runs diagonally across the city. (A fourth line is under construction.) On transit maps, they are designated as "Mi Tren" with a block such as L1 or L2 that designate the line. One line runs north-to-south beneath Avenida Federalismo to the edges of the city in both directions. The second runs west-to-east through the Centro Histórico to the eastern suburbs, and the third runs diagonally across the city from Zapopan in the northwest to Tlaquepaque in the southeast. The train can be particularly useful for getting to or from the main (new) bus station as well as for visits to the colonial center of Tlaqapaque where the [[Mexican artesanias|artesanias]] shops fill the streets. The fare is M$9.50 (Dec 2024). You can pay with the public transport card or by cash at the machine: For the latter just push on the blue button on the screen. You can buy a single-trip ticket for 10 pesos (the machine does not give you change). The subway closes at 23:00. A site map and more information about the system is at the [https://www.siteur.gob.mx/ SITEUR] web page. SITEUR is the government agency responsible for electric transit systems in Guadalajara, including Mi Tren, Mi Macro, and the Trole. A public transport card costs M$30 (Dec 2021) and can be purchased from a ticket machine in the entrance of a subway station. It can be used for the Metro, BRT, local buses and for bikesharing (Mi Bici). [[File:Pre-Tren autobus100 2826.jpg|thumb|The Pre-Tren]] A bus service called '''Pre-Tren''' ("Pre-Train") extends from the main subway station (Juárez) through the Zona Rosa to the west Anillo Periférico at a 50% discounted fare for subway card users. Pre-Trenes provide a good service with air-conditioned, red-colored units. The service is better than the smaller green "Mi Transporte" buses ''(camiones)''. ===By car=== You may also rent a car from airport, most major car rental companies such [http://www.Avis.com.com Avis]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.Nationalcar..com National Car Rental], [https://www.citycarrental.com/guadalajara-car-rental City Car Rental],Hertz and Europcar have booths at the baggage claim area. There are also some local car rentals such as [http://www.veico.com Veico Car Rental] and [http://mobixcarrental.com Mobix Car Rental] just outside the airport that also have good cars and often lower prices. Rental cars are only useful for getting outside the urban area (such as driving to [[Puerto Vallarta]] or the [[Costalegre]]. Within the urban area, congestion is unavoidable, navigation very hard (with many 1-way streets), and parking is often hard to find. ==See== ===Centro Histórico and nearby=== [[File:Hospicio Cabañas Nocturno.JPG|thumbnail|Cabañas in the nighttime]] [[File:Hidalgo statue.jpg|This [[Sculpture|statue]] of Miguel de Hidalgo is in the Plaza de la Liberación.|thumb|200px]] [[File:Parque Colomos.jpg|thumb|Colomos Forest]] * {{see | name=Belén Cemetery | alt=Panteón de Belén | url= | email= | address=Belén 684, El Retiro | lat=20.687533 | long=-103.3449 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 7786 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tours Tu-Sa 10:00, 11:00, 13:00 and 14:00, Th-Sa also at 20:30, 22:00 and 23:30 | price= | wikipedia=Panteón de Belén | wikidata=Q3936203 | content=This old cemetery dates back to 1786. It has been converted into a museum that is full of interesting stories of cemetery hauntings and Tapatío culture in general. There are also night tours Th-Sa that many people are afraid to take! Photos and videos for a fee. Tours are offered.}} * {{see | name=Cabañas Cultural Institute | alt=Instituto Cultural Cabañas | url=https://museocabanas.jalisco.gob.mx | email= | address=Cabañas 8, San Juan de Dios | lat=20.676877 | long=-103.337700 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3668 1642 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 | price=M$80; teachers, students, and seniors $60 ($30 with valid ID, kids 6-12 also), free entry on Tuesdays; camera fee $30, video fee $40; Guillermo del Toro Cinema $30, teachers, students and seniors $25 | lastedit=2023-05-16 | content=This [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]] east of Plaza de la Liberación is a cultural and art center where the fresco paintings of Jose Clemente Orozco are exhibited. }} * {{see | name=City Museum | alt=Museo de la Ciudad | url=http://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-de-la-ciudad-de-guadalajara | email= | address=Independencia 684, Zona Centro | lat=20.678166 | long=-103.352078 | directions= | phone=+52 33 1201 8712 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-17:30, Su 10:00-14:30 | price=M$20, teachers and students $10, free for children under 12 and Su | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=Exploring Guadalajara's over 450 years of history, the Museo de la Ciudad is situated in a former convent in the Centro Histórico that dates to the 18th Century. The museum's permanent collection is housed in six exhibition halls arranged chronologically according to century (16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st) and comprises artifacts and explanatory tests related to the history of Guadalajara in terms of art and architecture, ethnography, urban development, and the everyday life of Tapatíos. Temporary exhibits are also displayed, and lectures, workshops and symposia often take place in the auditorium and outdoor courtyard. }} * {{see | name=Museum of the Arts University of Guadalajara | alt=MUSA, Museo de las Artes Universidad de Guadalajara | url=http://www.musaudg.mx/ | email= | address=Av Juárez 975, Col Americana | lat=20.67423 | long=-103.35897 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3134 1664 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, closed M | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=University museum featuring temporary exhibits by local artists. The museum's star attraction is a lecture hall with a backdrop of a famous mural by Jose Clemente Orozco. }} * {{see | name=Cross of Plazas | alt=Cruz de Plazas | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=These four plazas are laid out in the form of a cross, with the Catedral at the center. Any of them offer a nice spot to walk through or rest in for a few minutes, and most have plenty of food vendors nearby. The plazas that make up the Cross are: }} ** {{see | name=Plaza Guadalajara | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67704 | long=-103.34783 | directions=West of the cathedral, between Av. Hidalgo and Calle de Morelos, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Located directly in front of the cathedral, Plaza Guadalajara contains a circular fountain and an outdoor restaurant. Under the fountain there is an underground commercial center which offers all kinds of goods for sale including fruit, beverages and jewelry. }} ** {{see | name=Plaza de Armas | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67619 | long=-103.34694 | directions=south of the cathedral, between Calle de Morelos and Calle Pedro Moreno, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Plaza de Armas offers one of the best views of the cathedral, as well as the '''Government Palace'''. It features a French ironwork bandstand that was purchased by former Mexican president Porfirio Díaz in 1885, and four statues on the corners of the place symbolizing the four seasons. The bandstand serves as the performing arena for marching bands. }} ** {{see | name=Plaza de la Liberación | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67703 | long=-103.34591 | directions=east of the cathedral, between Av. Hidalgo and Calle de Morelos, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This plaza features two large cup-shaped fountains and a gigantic sculpture of Miguel Hidalgo, the man who signed the Mexican Declaration of Independence in the current Governor's Office. It also serves as an atrium for the oldest surviving theater in the city, the '''Teatro Degollado''', and it's the usual spot for massive free concerts. }} ** {{see | name=Rotunda of Illustrious Jaliscans | alt=Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.67776 | long=-103.34701 | directions=north of the cathedral, between Av. Hidalgo and Calle Independencia, Zona Centro | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This lovely circular monument of fluted columns is a mausoleum containing the ashes of 98 important men and women born in Jalisco. The bright and busy atmosphere of the park around it contrasts with the serious aspect of the Rotunda. On the southern side (across the street from the cathedral) is the bus stop for the TuriBus. }} * {{see | name=Government Palace | alt=Palacio de Gobierno | url=http://www.jalisco.gob.mx | email= | address=Corona 31, Zona Centro | lat=20.67625 | long=-103.34607 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3668 1800 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-20:00 | price= | wikidata=Q110284122 | content=This is the historical center of the government of the State of Jalisco. Today it is mostly visited for its murals, the work of the famous Jalisciense artist, José Clemente Orozco. The most famous of these is a huge portrait of Miguel Hidalgo in the vault of the old chambers of the State Council. }} * {{see | name=Guadalajara Cathedral | alt=Catedral de la Asunción de María Santísima | url=http://arquidiocesisgdl.org/inicio.php | email= | address=Fray Antonio Alcalde 10, Zona Centro | lat=20.677012 | long=-103.346984 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 7168 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1706069 | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=Construction of this Guadalajara landmark started in the 1560s and took about 50 years to complete. The current towers were replaced on 1854 by architect Manuel Gómez Ibarra after an earthquake destroyed the originals in 1818. While visiting the Cathedral, a must-see is the mural "The Immaculate Conception" ''(La Purísima Concepción)'' by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo. Also here is the [http://www.museodeartesacro.com.mx/ Museo de Arte Sacro]. The cathedral's architecture is an eclectic mix of the Gothic, Neoclassical and Palladian styles. }} * {{see | name=Guadalajara Regional Museum | alt=Museo Regional de Guadalajara | url=http://www.inah.gob.mx/paseos/museoregionalguadalajara/ | email= | address=Liceo 60, Zona Centro | lat=20.677804 | long=-103.346421 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 2703 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 09:00-17:30, Su 09:00-16:30 | price= | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=A pleasant museum to spend a few hours in, especially on a hot day when you need some time out of the sun. It features the skeleton of a mammoth found on the nearby Laguna de Chapala. }} * {{see | name=Museo de lo Increíble | alt= | url=http://museodecera.com.mx/ | email= | address=C. Morelos 217 | lat=20.67656 | long=-103.34516 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614 8487 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=It sounds tacky, but this wax/oddities museum can be an interesting way to learn about Jaliscian history. }} * {{see | name=Plaza de los Mariachis | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av. Javier Mina at Calz. Independencia Sur, San Juan de Dios | lat=20.67495 | long=-103.3414 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28517416 | content=The official name of this small triangular plaza is Plaza Pepe Guizar, named for the composer who was responsible for the song "Guadalajara". However, its popular name comes from the mariachi bands who, for a small fee, will serenade you while enjoying the restaurants and bars around the square (a word of warning, though: this neighborhood becomes sketchy after dark). The Plaza de los Mariachis is where the famous '''Mexican Hat Dance''' ''(Jarabe Tapatío)'' was born. }} * {{see | name=Acuario Michin | alt= | url=https://acuariomichin.com/guadalajara/ | email= | address=Mariano de la Bárcena 990 | lat=20.69242 | long=-103.35119 | directions=next to Parque Alcalde | phone=+52 33 1644 9910 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11ː00-18ː00 | price= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Good representation of aquatic species here. }} * {{see | name=Blue Water Park | alt=Parque Agua Azul | url= | email=parque-agua-azul-92@hotmail.com | address=Calz. Independencia Sur 973, Reforma | lat=20.6596 | long=-103.3482 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3619 0328 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 | price= | content=Open air concerts, a butterfly enclosure, an aviary and plenty of greenery are some of the things that can be enjoyed at Agua Azul. This is a good place to take a break from the often dry, dusty and crowded environment of the city. The park houses a museum of paleontology, and there is a museum of regional archaeology just across Calzada Independencia. The 1.5 km from the Centro Histórico to the park is quite walkable, but it is also accessible via the 62A and 62D buses along Calzada Independencia. }} ===Minerva, Chapultepec, and west of the Centro Histórico=== * {{see | name=Chapalita Roundabout | alt=Glorieta Chapalita | url=http://www.glorietachapalita.com | email= | address=Av. Guadalupe at Av. de las Rosas, Chapalita, Zapopan | lat=20.666 | long=-103.403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A verdant gathering place in a lovely neighborhood ''(colonia)'' in the suburb of Zapopan, this "garden of art" sees local artists showing off their creations every Sunday while local residents show off their dogs. Raucous celebrations take place here on national holidays. }} * {{see | name=The Expiatory Church of the Blessed Sacrament | alt=El Expiatorio, Templo del Santísimo Sacramento | url=https://m.facebook.com/pages/Templo-Expiatorio/119386111470505 | email= | address=López Cotilla 935, Col. Americano | lat=20.673598 | long=-103.358947 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 3410 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento | image=Templo Expiatorio de GDL.jpg | wikidata=Q7698848 | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=This finely detailed Gothic Revival cathedral was built over decades starting in the late 19th century. There is a mechanical clock in the bell tower that features a procession of the Twelve Apostles at 09:00, 12:00 and 18:00. The interior of the church features a lovely collection of stained glass windows. }} * {{see | name=Minerva Roundabout | alt=Glorieta Minerva | url= | email= | address=Av. Ignacio Vallarta at Av. Adolfo López Mateos, Zona Centro | lat=20.674167 | long=-103.387222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5964364 | content=This ''glorieta'' (traffic circle) showcases a giant statue of the Roman goddess Minerva (one of the most important symbols of Guadalajara), surrounded by a fountain. It's sometimes shut down to traffic and opened to pedestrians when there's a major city celebration—such as when the '''Chivas''' football team wins a major game. }} * {{see | name=Monument of the Child Heroes | alt=Monumento a los Niños Héroes | url= | email= | address=Av. Niños Héroes at Av. Chapultepec Sur, Moderna | lat=20.66684 | long=-103.36843 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 1340 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A massive stone spire that memorializes six teenage military cadets who died defending Mexico City's military academy from U.S. forces during the Mexican-American War. }} * {{see | name=Vallarta Arch | alt=Arcos Vallarta | url= | email= | address=Av. Ignacio Vallarta just east of Glorieta Minerva, Zona Centro | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1577816 | content=This Romanesque double arch stands at what was once the western edge of the city. There are nice views to be had from the top, and interesting murals to view on the way up. }} ===Zapopan=== * {{see | name=Colomos Forest | alt=Bosque Los Colomos | url=https://bosquesurbanos.mx/bosques/bosque-los-colomos | email= | address=El Chaco 3200, Colomos Providencia, Zapopan | lat=20.707778 | long=-103.392889 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3641 3804 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-15:00 | price= | image=Parque Colomos.jpg | wikidata=Q5979585 | content=This lovely, family-friendly green space is a 92-hectare urban forest that boasts 30,000 trees of diverse species. Its mission is to conserve a beautiful example of a native woodland in an urban environment and educate visitors on ways for humans to better coexist with nature. In terms of visitor amenities, Colomos boasts lovely gardens including a Japanese garden and a cactus garden, goldfish ponds where children enjoy feeding the fish, and horseback riding. Smoking is strictly prohibited. }} * {{see | name=Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan | alt= | url=https://arquidiocesisgdl.org/ | email= | address=Calle Eva Briseño 152, Zapopan | lat=20.72125 | long=-103.39231 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3633 0141 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Basilica_of_Our_Lady_of_Zapopan | wikidata=Q4867367 | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=This basilica whose construction began in 1689 is especially popular because it preserves a wooden Virgin relic that came from Spain in the 16th century, and which is tied to a visitation by the Virgin herself with the intent of getting the indigenous people to lay down their weapons in the process of Spanish colonization. On October 12 a pilgrimage that includes up to a million people travels from the Cathedral of Guadalajara to this Basilica, where a mass is held and people celebrate with music, food and fireworks. }} * {{see | name=Trompo Mágico Museum | alt= | url=http://trompomagico.jalisco.gob.mx/ | email= | address=Av. Central Guillermo Gonzalez Camarena 750, Zapopan | lat=20.72269 | long=-103.43150 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3030 0001 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-F 09:00-18:00, Sa Su 11:00-19:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Interactive kids museum. }} * {{see | name=Calaverandia - Parque Temático | alt= | url=https://www.calaverandia.mx/en/ | email= | address=Avenida Manuel Ávila Camacho | lat=20.71211 | long=-103.37357 | directions=located in Parque Avila Camacho | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=A thematic amusement park. }} ===Tlaquepaque=== [[File:FotoCH 17.JPG|Plaza Tapatia|thumb]] The municipalities of Tlaquepaque and Tonala to the southeast of Guadalajara are essentially suburbs, though they retain much of their small-town charm. They had similar origins in originally being settlements of indigenous tribes with a pottery industry and were overtaken by the Spanish conquistador Nuño de Guzmán in 1530. Tlaquepaque also hosted Miguel Hidalgo on his way to Guadalajara in the [[Mexican War of Independence]]. Today the hallmark feature of these places is still pottery, though shops with furniture, textiles and other handicrafts are plentiful. In Tonala, don't miss the '''Thursday and Sunday street market''' revolving around handicrafts in front of the main church. * {{see | name=Museo Regional de la Ceramica | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-regional-de-la-ceramica-de-tlaquepaque | email= | address=Calle Independencia 237, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.63914 | long=-103.31465 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3860 1177 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 09:00-17:00 | price=free | wikipedia=Museo_Regional_de_la_Ceramica,_Tlaquepaque | wikidata=Q6940511 | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=A tribute to the pottery heritage of Tlaquepaque. Portrays different styles like burnished clay, high temperature, flag clay and petatillo. }} * {{see | name=Parroquia San Pedro Apóstol | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/ParroquiaSanPedroTlaquepaque | email= | address=Guillermo Prieto 60, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.64011 | long=-103.31177 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635 1001 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 09:30-13:30, 16:30-20:00 Sa; 09:30-13:30; closed Su | price= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Baroque/Byzantine-designed parish that dates to 1845, fronting the city square known as Jardin Hidalgo. }} * {{see | name=Centro Cultural El Refugio | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/casas-de-la-cultura/centro-cultural-el-refugio | email= | address=Calle Donato Guerra 160, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.64204 | long=-103.31292 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3562 7036 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 09:00-15:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=This building built in 1885 to be a psychiatric hospital now hosts cultural events and the Pantaleón Panduro, or display of winners from the National Ceramics Contest. }} ===Tonala=== * {{see | name=Museo Regional Tonallan | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-regional-tonallan | email= | address=Calle Ramón Corona 73, Tonalá | lat=20.62520 | long=-103.23980 | directions= | phone=+52 33 1200 3936 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, closed M | price=free | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=Includes artwork pertaining to the Nahual, a shapeshifter sort of being. }} * {{see | name=Parroquia de Santiago Apostol/Capilla de la Cruz Blanca | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Parroquia-Santiago-Ap%C3%B3stol-Tonal%C3%A1-255442698506992/ | email= | address=Av Benito Juarez 80, Tonalá | lat=20.62416 | long=-103.24259 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3683 1186 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=16th-century churches. The parroquia is known for its Dance of the Tastoanes featuring masks on July 25th. }} * {{see | name=Museo Nacional de la Cerámica | alt= | url=https://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/patrimonio/museos/museo-nacional-de-la-ceramica-jorge-wilmot | email= | address=Calle Constitución 104, Tonalá | lat=20.62684 | long=-103.24313 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3683 2519 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=more about ceramics. }} ===Huentitán=== [[File:Huentitan Canyon GDL.jpg|thumb|Huentitan-Oblatos Canyon]] * {{see | name=Huentitán-Oblatos Canyon | alt=Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos | url= | email= | address=North end of Calz. Independencia Norte, Huentitán el Alto | lat=20.70583 | long=-103.28306 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3674 0238 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This is the forested gorge of the Río Lerma-Santiago, accessible via buses #62A and #62D which run along Calzada Independencia. There are two locations with fine views of the gorge. }} * {{see | name=Guadalajara Zoo | alt=Zoológico Guadalajara | url=http://www.zooguadalajara.com.mx | email= | address=Paseo del Zoológico 600, Huentitán el Alto | lat=20.728381 | long=-103.308333 | directions=Mi Mega to Zoologico | phone=+52 33 3674 4488 | tollfree= | hours=W-Su 10:00-18:00 when school is in session, daily 10:00-18:00 during summer break and on holiday weekends | price=varies by packet, M$200-400 (Nov 2024) | wikipedia=Guadalajara Zoo | wikidata=Q3576044 | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=The modern Guadalajara Zoo is next to the Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos. It's worth visiting for its view of the canyon, and for its collection of animals, its safari ride, aerial cable cars, and its panoramic train. Other highlights include a reptile house, an arctic habitat, a nocturnal environment exhibit and a tropical forest simulated environment. Special packages available for different combinations of access to panoramic train, safari, aerial cable cars, and/or aquarium }} * {{see | name=Independencia Overlook Park | alt=Parque Mirador Independencia | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.74032 | long=-103.31023 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6062388 | content=This lovely park is at the northern terminus of Calzada Independencia adjacent to the Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos, with beautiful views of the canyon. Pretty gardens and benches are peppered around the park, allowing visitors to sit and enjoy the different views the park has to offer. This is also the starting point for many of the hiking trails that traverse the canyon. }} ==Do== {{mapframe|name=Map of the region around Guadalajara}} === City tour=== You can make a sightseeing tour in a very economically and animal friendly carriage. These are not powered by a horse, instead by a battery like an electric car. The start is at the cathedral. Prices are M$300 for half an hour, M$400-500 for a whole hour (Dec 2021). === Conventions === Guadalajara is Latin America's top destination for business conventions with the city's Expo Guadalajara convention center hosting many of the country's largest trade shows. * {{do | name=Expo Guadalajara | url=https://expoguadalajara.mx/ | address=Av. Mariano Otero 1499, Verde Valle | lat=20.65387807345402 | long=-103.39176410120137 | phone=+52 333 343 3000 | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Largest event venue in Mexico. Hosts major industrial trade shows throughout the year. }} ===Sports=== Guadalajara's sports culture is one of the most vibrant in Mexico, with a well-developed infrastructure of stadiums and facilities, achievements under its belt such as its successful turn as the host of the 2011 Pan-American Games, world-class athletes such as professional golfer Lorena Ochoa calling the city home, and big plans for the future. Guadalajara is also home to many ballet schools surrounding the metropolitan area. ====Football==== Of course, one would be remiss in talking about Guadalajara sports without mentioning the three professional football (''futbol'', i.e. what Americans call soccer) teams based there: '''Estudiantes''', '''Atlas''', and of course, '''Chivas'''. Chivas, more properly known as '''Club Deportivo Guadalajara''', is, according to FIFA, the most popular football team in Mexico. Chivas has won 11 first-division titles and holds the longest-ever season-opening winning streak: 8 back-to-back wins. Chivas is also the only football team in Mexico with exclusively Mexican players, whereas other teams have players of varying nationalities. The team colors are red, white, and blue, signifying "Fraternity, Union, and Sports". The new stadium, '''Estadio Akron''', with a capacity of 49,850, was inaugurated in 2010. [[File:Estadio Akron 02-07-2022 cabecera sur lado derecho.jpg|thumb|Estadio Akron is a FIFA World Cup venue]] * {{do | name=Estadio Akron | alt=formerly Estadio Omnilife | url=https://estadioakron.mx/ | email= | address=Circuito JVC 2800, Ayamonte, Zapopan | lat=20.681667 | long=-103.462778 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3777 5700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q666183 | lastedit=2025-01-10 | content=This is the stadium where most of the outdoor events for the 2011 Pan-American Games were held, and—more importantly—where the most popular football team in the city and the whole country, The stadium will host games for [[2026 FIFA World Cup|FIFA's 2026 World Cup]]. The stadium's home team, Deportivo Guadalajara (Chivas), has played since 2010. Chivas plays here every other Saturday at 19:00, unless otherwise specified. If you happen to be in Guadalajara on a Saturday, you are most likely to find either a Chivas football game in this stadium, or an Atlas game at Estadio Jalisco (below). Big games to watch out are Chivas vs. Atlas (which can be held in either stadiums depending on which one is scheduled as the home team) and Chivas vs. América—the "National Superclassic" ''(superclásico nacional)''—as these teams are bitter rivals. Either of these match-ups are sure to sell out the stadium and treat those lucky enough to get tickets to an intense atmosphere. Estadio Akron is a difficult place to reach by public transport. It is close to the Periférico Oriente, so taking a taxi is the best option. Alternatively, use any bus that will go around Periférico and you'll eventually get there, just ask the driver to let you know when you are there, since the stadium's visibility from Periférico is very limited.<br /><br />Two museums inside Estadio Akron should not be missed. '''Museo Chivas''' is a soccer museum focused on the stadium's home team, ''Chivas'', who are widely regarded as the most popular football team in Mexico. The museum chronicles the team's long history, with bios, statistics, and outstanding achievements of its players. The second museum is '''Jose Vergara Museo''', known as ''JOVEM''. This museum has nothing to do with soccer, making it an unlikely resident of the stadium. It is a design museum, focusing on the intersection of art and architecture. Guides are available to walk through the museum with you, explaining humanistic values comprising design elements. }} [[File:Estadio jalisco.jpg|thumb| Jalisco Stadium]] * {{do | name=Estadio Jalisco | alt=Jalisco Stadium | url=http://www.estadiojalisco.net | email= | address=Siete Colinas 1772, Independencia | lat=20.705 | long=-103.328139 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3637 0563 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1346716 | content=It's in Colonia Independencia, and can be reached by taking any bus along the Calzada Independencia and asking for the Estadio Jalisco. You will almost definitely see it if you look out, it will be on your left as you come from the center. Here the football team Atlas plays. Chivas used to play on this stadium until 2010, when Estadio Akron was completed. During the season there are league games every other Saturday. If Atlas is playing as a visitor, then you can look for a Chivas game at Estadio Akron. A big game to watch out for is Atlas vs. Chivas, which has an incredible atmosphere, though most games are worth experiencing. If you are of a nervous disposition, perhaps avoid the upper stands when there is a large crowd as it's known to shake when the crowds begin to jump. }} *{{do | name=Estadio Tres de Marzo | alt=March 3rd Stadium | url=https://www.facebook.com/Estadio-3-De-Marzo-252391198116915/ | email= | address=Patria 1201, Villa Universitaria, Zapopan | lat=20.693753 | long=-103.416136 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3610 1834 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q579997 | content=The Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara's football stadium in the north of the city, where "Los Estudiantes" play, is named for the date of the founding of the university in 1935. The Estudiantes play in the '''Primera Liga''' along with the other Guadalajara teams, Atlas and Chivas. }} ==== Baseball ==== Guadalajara hosts teams in both of Mexico's major professional leagues. Both play in the Estadio los Charros de Jalisco in the suburban municipality of Zapopan. The stadium was built in 2011 for the Panamerican Games and is often referred to as ''Estadio Panamericana'', though it was purchased by the Charros. * {{do | name=Estadio Los Charros de Jalisco | alt=Estadio Panamericano | url= | email= | address=Calle Sta. Lucía 373, Tepeyac, Zapopan | lat=20.727672 | long=-103.381458 | directions=use bus or taxi (no on-site parking) | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=Modern, state-of-the-art baseball stadium that is home field for both the [http://www.charrosjalisco.com '''Charros de Jalisco'''] (Pacific League, winter) and the '''Mariachis de Guadalajara''' (Mexican League, summer). The stadium is modern with unobstructed sight lines. Small, intimate park seating just 8,000 fans. Very clean and comfortable. Beware: Inconvenient, fan-hostile payment policies. The stadium requires you to buy their own payment card and use it for any purchases in the stadium (though credit cards are accepted for ticket purchase). The stadium is also difficult to reach as there is no parking and nearby access roads are blocked on game days. Take public transit, taxis, or Ubers and don't be surprised if they drop you off in an oddly uninviting neighborhood. }} ====Bullfighting==== * {{do | name=Nuevo Progreso Bullring | alt=Plaza de Toros Nuevo Progreso | url=https://plazanuevoprogreso.com.mx/ | email= | address=Montes Pirineos 1930, Monumental | lat=20.70198 | long=-103.32533 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3651 8378 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=It's right across the road from the Estadio Jalisco, just off Calzada Independencia. Bullfights take place at the Plaza Nuevo Progreso during the season on Sundays at 16:30. Those arriving by bus might not be able to see the bullring from the street, as it's hidden behind some trees, so get off when you see the Estadio Jalisco and go in the opposite direction. Be aware that [[Bullfighting]] is controversial and local courts blocked bullfights. Higher appellate courts may or may not have reversed the decision, but if you really want to see bullfights in Guadalajara, you may need to go to one of the suburbs that have their own bullrings (such as Tlaqapaque). }} ====Golf==== Golf is a popular past time with Mexican businessmen, but many courses are private and you would need an invitation from a member to play there. The following courses are open to the public or have some type of daily pass for non-members. Most of the golf courses are on the north side of Guadalajara, around Zapopan, but challenging courses may be found in any part of the city. * {{do | name=Atlas Country Club | alt= | url=https://country.atlas.com.mx/ | email= | address=Guadalajara-Chapala Road Km. 6.5 El Salto| lat=20.601554113763726 | long=-103.30527198401478 | directions=south side of Guadalajara, near Tonala | phone=+52 333 689 2620 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 07:00 - 21:00, but check weekend hours, which may be much shorter | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-03-28 | content=One of the best courses in Guadalajara is an 18-hole course designed by Joe Finger. Caddies are required and visitor greens fees often include the caddie service. }} * {{do | name=Club de Golf Santa Anita | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carr. Guadalajara-Morelia Km 6.5 | lat=20.564914519337734 | long=-103.46939760516346 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 11:00 - 19:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-03-28 | content=Classic 18-hole course with hills, long fairways, and a challenging final 4 holes. Facilities include a driving range, putting greens, a pro shop, a clubhouse with an upscale dining room, and outdoor patios to relax with a drink, enjoying the scenery. }} * {{do | name=El Cielo Country Club | alt= | url=http://www.elcielocc.com/ | email= | address=Paseo del Cielo 1, El Palomar | lat=20.606211818614288 | long=-103.47285399771202 | directions=on the west side of Guadalajara | phone=+52 33 3684 4436 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 07:00 - 19:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-03-28 | content=Affordable greens fees combined with challenging elevation drops and spectacular scenery with backgrounds of the city skyline and the nearby mountain ranges make this one of the most popular courses for visiting golfers. }} ===Performing arts=== [[File:Gdl-degollado.jpg|thumb|Jalisco Philharmonic taking the stage at Teatro Degollado]] * {{do | name=Filharmonica de Jalisco | alt=Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra | url=http://en.ofj.com.mx/ | email= | address=Teatro Degollado, Centro | lat=20.677168 | long=-103.344832 | directions= | phone=+52 3614 4773 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-29 | content=One of Mexico's top professional orchestras, the Jalisco Philharmonic celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2015. The orchestra performs three full seasons of classical music from January to December each year under the direction of Jose Luis Castillo. The orchestra frequently tours abroad. The concert hall is a showcase of opulence that will be appreciated by students of music, architecture, and history. }} * {{do | name=Teatro Diana | alt= | url=http://www.teatrodiana.com/ | email= | address=Av. 16 de Septiembre 710, Mexicaltzingo | lat=20.665432 | long=-103.348996 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614 7940 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-03 | content=Modern performing arts venue built in 2005, hosting concerts, opera, ballet and other events. Seats about 2,400 patrons. }} ===Holidays and events=== ====Spring==== * {{do | name=Guadalajara Film Festival | alt=Festival Internacional del Cine de Guadalajara | url=http://www.ficg.mx/ | email= | address=Nebulosa 2916, Jardines del Bosque | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3121 7461 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Guadalajara International Film Festival | wikidata=Q1408552 | content=The biggest film festival in Latin America and one of the most important showcases for Mexican and Latin American cinema on the world stage, the Festival Internacional del Cine de Guadalajara takes place annually in early March. A bevy of awards are given in all categories of film, and it also serves as a forum for education and creative interchange among Latin American cineasts. }} =====Summer===== * {{do | name=International Mariachi and Charrería Conference | alt=Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi y la Charrería | url=http://www.mariachi-jalisco.com.mx/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mariachi bands from all over Mexico and the world meet the last week of August and the first week of September, usually at '''Teatro Degollado''' and the surrounding area, to play and compete for the delight of fans. You won't witness anything like this unique event anywhere else. }} ====Autumn==== * {{do | name=Independence Day | alt=Día de la Independencia | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Visitors who find themselves in Guadalajara on 16 September are in for a festive and patriotic treat. One traditional way that Tapatíos enjoy celebrating this holiday is with a reenactment of the "Cry of Pain" ''(Grito de Dolores)'', the incident that, in 1810, kicked off the war that ended with Mexico's independence from [[Spain]]. At the stroke of midnight, locals go to the main square and shout out in unison: half yell "Viva" and the other half "México", going on to the names of important heroes of Mexican history: "Viva Hidalgo", "Viva Morelos", and so on. }} * {{do | name=Pilgrimage of Our Lady of Zapopan | alt=Romería de la Virgen de Zapopan | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Celebrated in Guadalajara on 12 October, this event honors the local Virgin Mary figure of the Guadalajara area, the Virgen de Zapopan. On this day, over a million people parade the famous statuette from the downtown cathedral to its home in the '''Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Zapopan'''. This festival is only celebrated in the Guadalajara area, and is one of the largest examples of a [[w:Romería|romería]] outside Spain. It is inscribed by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. }} * {{do | name=International Book Fair | alt=Feria Internacional del Libro | url=http://www.fil.com.mx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=The "FIL" takes place from late November to early December in Guadalajara. Companies and delegations come from all over the world to exhibit their books and see books from other places. Every year a country or region serves as the guest of honor, presenting books that represent its particular literary tradition. }} ====Winter==== * {{do | name=Christmas | alt=Navidad | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Tapatío Christmas tradition that you may witness if you're in Guadalajara over the holidays is known as "Las Posadas" (The Inns). Children parade through the neighborhood recreating the passage of Joseph and Mary through Bethlehem, asking for shelter and being refused. Generally nowadays this is a celebration for family and friends, but if you know a Mexican, it's a great way to experience Mexican culture firsthand. Regular appearances include piñatas, mariachi bands, Mexican beer, tequila and general merriment. }} * {{do | name=Foundation of Guadalajara | alt=Fundación de Guadalajara | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Held on February 14th, this is a celebration to commemorate the foundation of the city of Guadalajara on that day in 1542. }} === Out of town trips === * {{marker | type=do | name=[[Tequila]] | lat=20.8830754 | long= -103.8343469}} – 65km in the west. Situated in a picturesque countryside setting, it's perhaps the quintessential Guadalajara side trip, and is the best place to sample Mexico's favorite liquor. The Jose Cuervo distillery has a packaged tour that will pick you up from your hotel, take you to an agave farm, then to the distillery for a tour with free samples and a gift shop, then gift you with vouchers for a free margarita and 10% off at a local restaurant. The city itself is also quaint and worth exploring. Tequila is easily accessible by bus (about 90 minutes one-way), and many hotels organize excursions there for their guests. However, perhaps the most fun way to get to Tequila is the [http://www.tequilaexpress.com.mx/ Tequila Express], a charming tourist railroad complete with tequila shots and roving mariachis. The train leaves Guadalajara's train station Sa & Su 10:00, returning the same evening. Several local tour companies offer '''[[Tequila Trail]]''' that visit distilleries in Tequila as well as neighboring towns, they typically include transportation, guides, and tastings of several tequilas. * {{marker | type=do | name=Laguna de Chapala | lat=20.2811878 | long=-103.1935038}} – 50 km in the south. It's the main regional vacation spot, a lovely lake surrounded by picturesque towns such as [[Chapala]] and [[Ajijic]] (the latter of which has a sizeable gringo expat community). Direct buses to Chapala leave from the Old Bus Station (Central Vieja). The 'directo' bus has A/C and takes 1 hour. It costs M$58 (Dec 2021) and departs every full hour from Guadalajara. On the way back the bus departs hourly 15 min after the full hour from Chapala. [[File:Los Guachimontones.JPG|Guachimontones|thumb]] *{{do |name=Guachimontones|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-05-31|content=65 km in the west. A pre-Columbian archaeological site near the town of Teuchitlán, about an hour west of Guadalajara, that dates to the period between 300 BC and 900 AD and is known for its unique circular stepped pyramids. This complex of more than 40 hectares was only discovered in the 1970s|wikidata=Q2989048|wikipedia=Guachimontones}} * {{do | name=Parque Bicentenario Puente de Calderon | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.6751 | long=-103.0101 | directions=off Route 80 east of Zapotlanejo | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:00-18:00 daily | price= | wikipedia=Battle_of_Calderón_Bridge | wikidata=Q786657 | lastedit=2020-12-05 | content=45 km in the east. This 17th-century stone bridge was the site of the key Battle of the Bridge of Calderón in 1811 in the Mexican War of Independence. }} ==== Tequila ==== Visitors who enjoy gastronomy in general and alcoholic beverages more specifically will want to take the opportunity to experience Mexico's national drink among the people who make it and love it. There are numerous opportunities to join a tequila tasting in Guadalajara, and travelers who want to delve deeply into the history and the technical details of making, aging, and serving tequila can find many types of tequila tours, including those that follow the state's two official itineraries that are part of the ''[[Tequila Trail]]''. ==== Outdoor activities ==== Guadalajara is a highland city with an elevation of 1566 meters, set in the Atemajac Valley of the [[Sierra Madre|Sierra Madre Occidental]] mountain range. It offers outdoor enthusiasts excellent opportunities for vigorous outdoor activities, especially [[Hiking]], [[Mountain biking]]. These can be enjoyed in parks and protected natural areas that are easily accessible to many parts of the city. These natural areas include: * '''[[La Primavera Biosphere Reserve]]''' - protected areas of forested inactive volcanoes with 12 marked nature trails for both hiking and mountain biking. in the northern part of the city next to Zapopan * '''Barranca de Huentitán-Oblatos''' - canyon in the southern part of the city with several forested hiking trails Take the BRT ''Mi Macro - Calzada'' to the '''Mirador''' station (end of the line). The park entrance is very near the station. The park features several forested hiking trails, including: ** '''Main Trail''': This busy, winding trail descends about 600 meters to the Santiago River. The trail features hundreds of numbered hairpin turns, making it a great workout. ** '''Puente de Arcediano Route''': A popular but demanding trail that branches off the main trail to the historic Arcediano Bridge. ** '''Abandoned Railway''': A steep abandoned railway line makes for a fun, off-the-beaten-path route (though it is a bit rugged) ==Learn== The [http://www.udg.mx/ Universidad de Guadalajara], often referred to simply as "U de G", is the most important institution of higher learning in western Mexico, and the second most important in the country after Mexico City's mammoth [http://www.unam.mx/ UNAM]. The University also serves as a center of cultural activity enjoyed by residents and visitors alike, such as the Ballet Folclórico and the {{marker|type=listing|name=[https://boletomovil.com/cineforoudg Cineforo Universidad]|lat=20.67515|long=-103.35875}}. Guadalajara offers many language schools for the fast growing need for learning Spanish. * {{listing | name=Guadalajara Language Center | alt= | url=https://www.glc.com.mx/ | email=glc@glc.com.mx | address=Francisco I. Madero #160a San Pedro Tlaquepaque Jalisco | lat=20.64195 | long=-103.31149 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635-2535 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 8AM-9PM, Sa 9AM-Noon | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-03-17 | content= }} * {{listing | name=IMAC | alt= | url=https://www.spanish-school.com.mx/ | email= info@spanish-school.com.mx | address=Donato Guerra 180 (Historic Downtown Area) | lat=20.67377 | long=-103.35076 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614-1414 | tollfree= | fax=+52 33 3613-4621 | hours=M-F 9AM-8PM, Sa 9AM-3PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-03-17 | content= }} ==Buy== In the centro are ATMs of BanCoppel, Banjercito, BanBajio and Citibanamex. In the Americana district there is a Banca Inbursa ATM inside the Sanborns, BanBajio, Banca Mifel and Santander. In the centro and Americana neighborhood are some stores of Oxxo and 7eleven as well as some minimarkets. On the Av Juárez is the {{marker | type=buy | name= big supermarket Soriana Súper| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.6748893 | long=-103.3517079 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | content=}}. The shopping scene in Guadalajara is centered around two opposing faces of Latin American culture: traditional open-air markets ''(tianguis)'' and the modern shopping plazas and malls that, more and more, are sprouting up around the outskirts of town. The latter can be found in particular proliferation southwest of the Centro Histórico in '''Sector Juárez''', as well as in suburban ''municipios'' such as '''Zapopan'''. A refreshing exception to this rule is the historic downtown district of '''Tlaquepaque''', southeast of Guadalajara proper. This area is characterized by a lively collection of shops centered on the pedestrian-only streets, '''Calle Independencia''' and '''Avenida Juárez'''. Emphasized in these charming shops are arts and handicrafts of all kinds: one-of-a-kind handmade furniture, textiles, jewelry, paintings, sculptures, glassware, home decor, and even chocolate. ===Tianguis=== These temporary open-air street markets or bazaars are a Mexican tradition dating back to the Aztec days, and are a great way to get up close and personal with local culture at its most real—and score some bargains in the process. Some of the biggest tianguis in Guadalajara include: * {{buy | name=Guadalajara Cultural Tianguis | alt=Tianguis Cultural de Guadalajara | url= | email= | address=Plaza Benito Juárez, corner Av. Wáshington and Av. 16 de Septiembre, Zona Centro | lat=20.659617 | long=-103.350569 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa 07:00-19:00 | price= | content=Popular especially with young people, the Tianguis Cultural is not only a great place to buy clothes and music, but also to catch free open-air concerts, mingle, see and be seen. }} * {{buy | name=Liberty Market | alt=Mercado Libertad | url= | email= | address=Javier Mina 52, San Juan de Dios | lat=20.67543 | long=-103.33948 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3618 0506 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 06:00-20:00 | price= | content=Known by locals as '''Mercado San Juan de Dios''' because of the river that used to pass through the area, the Mercado Libertad is a very busy, multi-story enclosed market; with hundreds of vendors, it's the largest market in Latin America. The market also houses a very popular and very good food court featuring everything from seafood to local favorites like '''birria''' (goat stew) and '''pozole''' (hominy and pork stew). It's a great place to get souvenirs. Unfortunately, it isn't the safest place in town, so make sure to always keep on the lookout for purse-snatchers. }} * {{buy | name=Tianguis el Baratillo | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Juan R. Zavala 38, Santa María | lat=20.683704 | long=-103.319313 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su 07:30-15:00 | price= | content=The largest tianguis in Guadalajara, this market sells anything and everything—tools, furniture, food, clothes and accessories, kitchenware, toys, and all manner of other articles—with an emphasis on used items sold at great bargains (hence its name El Baratillo, which roughly translates as "The Flea Market"). }} ===Malls and shopping centers=== * {{buy | name=Centro Magno | alt= | url=https://www.centro-magno.com/ | email= | address=Vallarta 2425, Arcos Vallarta | lat=20.67388 | long=-103.38057 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 1113 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Located between Avenidas Vallarta and López Cotilla, the Centro Magno has a big, wide, closed space in the middle, surrounded mostly by restaurants, fashion, electronics and bazaar stores, with a cinema on the top floor. It's served directly by bus routes 629A and 629B, and routes 626, 622, 24, 258 and 101 are also nearby. }} * {{buy | name=Galería del Calzado | alt= | url=http://www.galeriadelcalzado.com.mx/ | email= | address=Avenida México 3225, Vallarta San Jorge | lat=20.67851 | long=-103.39422 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3647 6422 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 11:00-21:00, Su 11:00-20:30 | price= | content=This is an entire mall that contains over 60 shoe stores, great for the dedicated footwear obsessive. As you can imagine, all prices and styles can be found here. }} * {{buy | name=Galerías Guadalajara | alt= | url=https://galeriasgdl.mx/ | email= | address=Rafael Sanzio 150, Residencial La Estancia, Zapopan | lat=20.676910 | long=-103.431900 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3113 9828 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11ː00-21ː00 | price= | wikidata=Q5874753 | lastedit=2026-02-10 | content=Guadalajara's biggest mall is at the intersection of Avenidas Vallarta and Rafael Sanzio. It houses Guadalajara's biggest multiplex cinema, with 20 THX projection rooms and 4 VIP rooms. Has multi-level parking ramps as well as more than 1 km² of open parking space shared with a Wal-Mart and a Sam's Club. Served by bus routes 25, 47 and 629. }} * {{buy | name=Plaza Andares | alt= | url=http://www.andares.com | email= | address=Puerta de Hierro 4965, Fraccionamiento Plaza Andares, Zapopan | lat=20.71027 | long=-103.41204 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3648 2298 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=At the corner of Avenidas Patria and Puerta de Hierro. Designer stores abound here: DKNY, Cartier, Hugo Boss, Mont Blanc, Helmut Lang, Fendi, Alexander McQueen, Versace, Armani, Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Valentino, Diesel, Cavalli, Calvin Klein, Channel and Dior. }} * {{buy | name=Plaza del Sol | alt= | url=http://www.plazadelsol.com | email= | address=López Mateos Sur 2375, Ciudad del Sol, Zapopan | lat=20.65046 | long=-103.40134 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3121 5950 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7203715 | content=This mall, Guadalajara's second-largest, is near the corner of Avenidas López Mateos and Mariano Otero. The mall boasts a multi-story car park and an open layout, with big, open spaces in the middle, surrounded by hallways. Served by bus routes 357, 101, 24, 258, 626, 629, 645 and 701, as well as the longer-distance buses that connect the nearby town of Santa Anita with the metropolitan area. The '''Torrena Tower''', measuring 336.5 m in height, is under construction next to both Plaza del Sol and '''Plaza Torrena''', a smaller, underground mall nearby that can be recognized by its white concrete dome. }} * {{buy | name=Plaza Patria | alt= | url=http://www.plazapatria.com | email= | address=Patria 45160, Altamira, Zapopan | lat=20.71242 | long=-103.37876 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Bounded by Avenidas Patria, Ávila Camacho and Américas, this two-story mall, smaller than many of the others on this list, nonetheless has a sizable assortment of stores. Clothes and electronics can be bought here, and there are also convenience stores and a supermarket. Served by bus routes 24, 25, 604, 622, 632, 634 and 701. }} ==Eat== Guadalajara has a wide range of restaurants with outstanding street vendors selling regional specialties (particularly birria, tortas, and various tacos). The city also has a mind-boggling variety of outstanding restaurants with dozens of 5-star restaurants offering an upscale experience and a wide range of international flavors. 2024 saw the famed Michelin Guide make its first pass through Mexico and its initial list of recommended Mexican restaurants included 25 outstanding restaurants. In addition to traditional Mexican specialties, Tapatíos seem to be especially fond of Italian food—a considerable number of restaurants of that type can be found around Guadalajara. If you miss American fast food, worry not: in addition to the restaurants listed here, Guadalajara has plenty of American fast-food franchises. ===Budget=== Birria, tortas ahogadas, and chilaquiles are some of the most traditional Tapatío dishes. In the Centro and Americana district you find several low priced restaurants and eateries. In the Centro area you can find many Chinese buffet restaurants offering inexpensive, quick meals. ====Centro Histórico==== {{marker | type=eat | name= Mercado Libertad| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6755436| long= -103.3401238| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | content=}} – The food court is a good place to sample the variety of local specialties. You can go eat here multiple times, as there is a big variety of cooked meals. You can also find Chinese and Japanese dishes. The majority of the food stalls has price tags. Most vendors let you walk through the food court without disturbing you. The prices are low. It's open daily from 8:00-20:00. * '''Birria''' is a savory stew made of roast chiles, spices and traditionally goat meat, though you will usually be given other meat options like mutton or beef depending on the restaurant. For birria, the restaurants in the Nueve Esquinas area (a few blocks south of Templo San Francisco) are popular and reliably good. * '''Tortas ahogadas''' (literally "drowned sandwiches") are elongated sandwiches on ''birote'' bread, akin to submarines or po' boys, smothered in a savory chile and tomato sauce. Numerous restaurants in the Centro Histórico specialize in these. * '''Pozole''' is a hearty soup of pork and hominy topped with fresh cabbage, radish, onion and cilantro. There are some very good pozole stands in the food court of the Mercado Libertad. * '''Mollete'''. Popular for breakfast among locals, this is a French-style roll split and covered with refried beans, then topped with ham or chorizo and cheese and toasted. * '''Tamales''' consist of pockets of ''masa'' (a starchy dough of corn flour) filled with ''mole'' (a sauce or gravy made from any of an infinite combination of chili peppers, spices, and chocolate) and the choice of chicken or pork. Most people make tamales for holidays such as Christmas, the [[Day of the Dead|Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)]], Independence Day, or New Year's Day. * '''Enchiladas''' are a corn or flour tortilla rolled around and filled with meat, cheese, vegetables and/or potatoes and covered with spicy chile sauce, dressed variously in sour cream and/or cheese. ====Colonia Americana==== * {{eat | name=El Vegano Urbano | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Juan Cumplido 14, Col Americana | lat=20.676445 | long=-103.358445 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 19:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2024-09-24 | content=It looks and tastes like actual meat, but it's vegan. Served are delicious tacos for M$15, gringas, hamburgers and more. Tasty sauces that you can add by yourself. }} * {{eat | name= Taquería Reforma | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Escorza 50, Col Americana | lat= 20.6757604| long=-103.3586169| directions= | phone=+52 33 1201 9369 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 11:00 - 22:00 | price= | wikipedia= | image= | lastedit=2024-09-24 | content= It's a simple traditional eatery. The meat is fried right which means it's without burnt black meat. They serve daily 10:30-22:30. You get very good tasting taco bistek or pastor (M$11), taco size quesadilla (M$11), sopes (M$20), or hamburguesa (M$30). }} * {{eat | name=Taco's Pepes | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.673767 | long=-103.370283 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-F 07:30-16:00, Sa 07:30-15:00 | price=Tacos for M$12-14, Gringas vampiros for M$25 | lastedit=2021-11-01 | content=They have a big variety of tasty meat and sauces. }} ====In multiple locations==== * {{eat | name= Sticks Pedro Moreno| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6752899| long= -103.3700324| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= In the Americana neighborhood. In the west of the Zona Centro is the {{marker | type=eat | name= Sticks Parque Rojo| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6743714| long= -103.3565024}} and there is the {{marker | type=eat | name= Sticks Centro Histórico| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 20.6807290| long= -103.3460733}} You get tasty:{{ili|Japanese fried rice yakimeshi with chicken or beef for M$25-46}}{{ili|a rather small portion of pasta for M$39-43}}{{ili|a stick with cheese and salami, plantain, ham, shrimps or surimi for M$16-18}}{{ili|a sushi roll for M$39-57.}}}} ===Mid-range=== ====Centro Histórico==== * {{eat | name=Birrería Las Nueve Esquinas | url=http://www.las9esquinas.com | email= | address=Cristóbal Colón 384, Zona Centro | lat=20.67067 | long=-103.34847 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 6260 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:00-22:00, Su 09:00-19:30 | price= | content=Well known for its lamb birria, a specialty of Jalisco, this popular place is in an old part of the Centro Histórico called "Las Nueve Esquinas" (Nine Corners), for its unusual street layout. }} * {{eat | name=La Chata | url=http://www.lachata.com.mx | email= | address=Corona 126, Zona Centro | lat=20.67469 | long=-103.34665 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 1315 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:30-00:00 | price= | content=Very popular and very crowded. Traditional food the way mom used to make it, or so they say. The prices are higher here than in other places serving the same fare—but still pretty reasonable. }} ====West of the Centro Histórico==== * {{eat | name=Chop | alt= | url=http://chai.com.mx/ | email= | address=México 2328, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.67946 | long=-103.37558 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 3557 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-Th 08:00-00:00, F Sa 08:00-01:00 | price= | content=Lovely deli midway between Chapultepec and Minerva and owned by a local chain of coffeehouses. Salads, sandwiches and wraps, paninis, calzone and pizza are on the menu, as well as a large selection of breakfasts served daily. Kids' menu. }} * {{eat | name=Kamilos 333 | url=http://www.kamilos333.com | email= | address=José Clemente Orozco 333, Santa Teresita | lat=20.68151 | long=-103.36633 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 7869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 08:00-01:00 | price= | content=Unpretentious, traditional Mexican fare reigns supreme here—Kamilos' menu goes heavy on meat dishes, which are juicy and delicious. Breakfast served daily. Those who don't speak Spanish well may have trouble with the (intentionally) misspelled words on the menu—"camarones" becomes "kamaronez", "quesadilla" is rendered "kezadya", etc. }} * {{eat | name=Tacos Providencia | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/TacosProvidencia/ | email= | address=Rubén Darío 534, Lomas de Guevara | lat=20.68529 | long=-103.38500 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3641 6049 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The tacos this place serves up—particularly the tacos al pastor, the specialty here—have been described as the best in Guadalajara. Quesadillas are also served. }} ====Colonia Americana==== * {{eat | name=Goa... Un Sabor de la India | alt= | url=http://www.goa.com.mx/ | email= | address=López Cotilla 1520, Americana | lat=20.67396 | long=-103.36985 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3615 6173 | tollfree= | hours=M 16:00-22:00, Tu-Sa 13:00-00:00, Su 13:00-19:00 | price= | content=A restaurant specializing in North Indian cuisine served in a lovely and exotic environment. }} ====Tlaquepaque==== * {{eat | name=El Parián | alt= | url=http://business.google.com/website/el-parian/ | email= | address=Corner of Calles Juárez and Progreso, Tlaquepaque Centro | lat=20.63883 | long=-103.31104 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This central square of Tlaquepaque's historic downtown boasts several restaurants with a bandstand in the center. It's a nice place to sit and have a drink or enjoy a meal, with numerous mariachis who will play for you for a small fee and also public performances that begin at 21:30. Gourmets will appreciate the recommendation of El Parian in the 2024 Michelin Guide. }} * {{eat | name=TlaquePasta | url=http://www.quintadonjose.com/tlaquepasta | email= | address=Reforma 139, Tlaquepaque Centro | lat=20.63743 | long=-103.31225 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635 7522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 17:00-22:00, F-Su 14:00-22:00 | price= | content=It's in the '''Quinta Don José Boutique Hotel''', and offers a nice mix of cuisines, with traditional Tapatío dishes rubbing shoulders on the menu with the only Italian specialties available in Tlaquepaque. Great tasting food, attractive setting, and reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=Real San Pedro | url=http://realsanpedro.mx/ | address=Calle Independencia 163, Tlaquepaque Centro | lat=20.639430105392574 | long=-103.31299019533435 | phone=+52 333 659 3631 | hours=Daily 08:00 - 22:00 | price=M$200 | content=Elegant dining room in an historic casona. Food is traditional regional cuisine with moles, enchiladas and more. Extensive tequila list and wine list, as well as mezcals, including some raicillas (a type of mezcal endemic to Jalisco). }} === Splurge === ====Colonia Americana==== * {{eat | name=El Sacromonte | url=http://www.sacromonte.com.mx | email= | address=Pedro Moreno 1398, Americana | lat=20.67574 | long=-103.36609 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 5447 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 13:30-00:00, Su 13:30-18:00 | price= | content= The food here is traditional Mexican served a little more artfully for a more well-off clientele. Subdued, violin-centered mariachis play here in the early afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Suehiro | url=http://www.suehiro.com.mx | email= | address=La Paz 1701, Americana | lat=20.67093 | long=-103.36298 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3826 0094 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 13:30-17:30 and 19:30-23:30, Su 13:00-19:00 | price= | content=Laid-back Japanese restaurant whose gargantuan menu encompasses excellently prepared cuisine in the teppanyaki, nabemono, and tempura cooking styles, as well as a huge selection of sushi and sashimi. Quality and service are beyond compare. Outside is a beautifully landscaped garden complete with koi pond. }} * {{eat | name=Bruna | url= | address=Calle Miguel Lerdo de Tejada 2418 | lat=20.671143629267135 | long=-103.3779290599571 | phone=+52 332 003 0904 | hours=Daily 14:00 - 00:00 | price=M$300 | lastedit=2025-01-28 | content=Contemporary upscale restaurant serving nouveau Mexican cuisine in an elegant dining room overlooking a [[Sculpture|sculpture garden]] that is part of the art gallery housed in the same building. Reservations suggested as this is one of the city's top restaurants. }} * {{eat | name=Santo Coyote | url=https://www.santocoyote.com.mx/ | address= | lat=20.67079229416486 | long=-103.37704929547432 | phone=+52 333 343 2265 | hours=Daily 08:00 - 00:00 | price=M$350 | lastedit=2025-01-28 | content=Elaborate upscale restaurant that re-creates a jungle atmosphere with multiple small dining rooms. The menu is nouveau Mexican with frequent forays into traditionally local flavors of pre-Hispanic cultures. Almost every dish has something wonderfully flavorful but often unknown to foreign tourists, like epazote or huitlacoche. Drinks are equally innovative and most are based on local tequilas or mezcals. Listed in the 2024 Michelin Guide. }} * {{eat | name=Casa Bariachi | alt= | url=http://www.casa-bariachi.com/ | email= | address=Av. Ignacio Vallarta 2221 | lat=20.674601987790936 | long=-103.37829016148969 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3616 9900 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 13:00 - 03:00 | price=M$500 | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=Upscale restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine including grilled meats and regional specialties. Elegant dining room with live music provided by roving mariachis. }} ====West of Centro==== * {{eat | name=Il Duomo | url= | email= | address=de las Américas 302, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.68260 | long=-103.37331 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3615 4952 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 13:30-00:00 | price= | content=Creative Italian cuisine at reasonable prices including pastas, meat dishes and fine wines, served by polite and attentive (but not over-attentive) waitstaff. }} ====Zapopan==== * {{eat | name=Almacén del Bife | url=https://www.almacendelbife.com/ | email= | address=Plaza Andares 4965, Puerta de Hierro, Zapopan | lat=20.71014 | long=-103.41254 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3611 2668 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 13:00-00:00 | price=M$120-800 | content="Beer and wine, our passion" (in translation) is the motto of this Argentinian restaurant in Plaza Andares. In addition, a wide selection of chicken dishes, pastas and a daily seafood special are offered. }} * {{eat | name=Fonda Doña Gabina Escolástica | url= | address=Javier Mina 237, Centro, Zapopan | lat=20.7201585184255 | long=-103.38938190391251 | phone=+52 333 833 0883 | hours=Daily 14:00 - 22:30 | price=M$200 | lastedit=2024-12-24 | content=Traditional regional Mexican restaurant. Recommended by the Michelin Guide whose editors particularly recommend the tostada de pata. Other house specialties include pozole and enchiladas. Large portions, affordable prices. }} ==Drink== Guadalajara has a vibrant nightlife that's spread out all over the city, from the touristy places in the Centro Histórico ('''Plaza de la Liberación''' is a good place to start your search) to the college bars in Zapopan. However, the most active bar district in Guadalajara is in '''Colonia Americana''' centered along '''Avenida Chapultepec''' between Hidalgo and Niños Héroes, about 2 km west of the Centro Histórico. This is the place where GDL's hipster crowd makes the scene, with bar after bar lining the sides of the streets. Many of these places double as popular live music venues. A good suggestion is to search out a bar with a large collection of tequilas and taste a great blanca, reposada and añejo. If you ask for a traditional tequila from Los Altos, you will almost certainly get something good. Los Altos is the region northeast of Guadalajara where the best tequila in the world is made, bringing up images of tradition, patriotism and individualism. ===Centro Histórico=== * {{drink | name=Los Famosos Equipales | url= | email= | address=Juan Álvarez 704, Zona Centro | lat=20.684543 | long=-103.352330 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3614 1500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 10:00-00:00, F Sa 22:00-02:30 | price= | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=One of its famous drinks here is named "Las Nalgas Alegres" (Happy Buttocks), which is a delicious pink-colored but deceptively strong concoction. A jukebox plays music constantly, and snacks are available too. }} ===Colonia Americana=== *{{drink | name=El Primer Piso | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Primer-Piso-Bar-120550884698378/ | email= | address=Pedro Moreno 947, Americana | lat=20.675488 | long=-103.358393 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3825 7085 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 19:30-01:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-07-29 | content=A lively and fun jazz bar with good music, good food and a red upholstered ceiling are trademarks. }} *{{drink | name=Cerveceria Loba | url=http://www.cervezaloba.com/ | address=C. Gregorio Dávila 76, Col Americana | lat=20.67807888378071 | long=-103.36119656775809 | phone=+52 332 035 6401 | hours=M-Sa 14:00 - 01:00, closed Su | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Taproom and craft brewery producing several styles of both ales and lagers with stouts, IPAs, goses, and more. }} * {{drink | name=Bar Américas | url=http://baramericas.com.mx/ | address=Av. Chapultepec Sur 507, Col Americana | lat=20.668393366451735 | long=-103.36828002913566 | phone=+52 333 060 3773 | hours=Th-M 12:00 - 07:00, W 20:00 - 00:00 | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Popular techno nightclub that doesn't really get rolling until after 2am. Young, trendy crowd. }} * {{drink | name=Salón del Bosque | alt= | url=http://saloondelbosque.com/ | email= | address=José Guadalupe Zuno 2200, Col. Americana | lat=20.67076 | long=-103.37232 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3616 4297 | tollfree= | hours=M Tu Sa 13:00-23:00, W-F 13:00-01:00 | price= | content=Upscale, laid-back atmosphere featuring live jazz and bossa nova. }} * {{drink | name=Hudson Bar | url= | address=C. Miguel Lerdo de Tejada 2055, Col Americana | lat=20.671295374770683 | long=-103.36987383693541 | phone=+523336152054 | hours=Tu-Th 13:00 - 01:00, F-Sa 13:00 - 02:30, closed Su | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Cool, old-school style bar with live music and a rooftop bar. }} * {{drink | name=Urban Live | url=http://www.theurbanlive.com/ | address=Esq. con Libertad, Av. Chapultepec Sur 177-2do piso, Col Americana | lat=20.673503746071777 | long=-103.3682215961734 | phone=+52 331 328 8482 | hours=F-Sa 20:30 - 03:00, closed Su-Th | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Lively club playing with live bands playing rock in both English and Spanish. }} ===Chapultepec, Zona Rosa and Minerva=== * {{drink | name=Barba Negra | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Barbanegra1988/ | email= | address=Justo Sierra 2194-A, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.67782 | long=-103.37233 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3808 8650 | tollfree= | hours=W Th 13:00-02:00, F 13:00-03:00, Sa 19:30-03:00 | price= | content=Features live rock music. }} * {{drink | name=Grand Fiesta Americana Guadalajara Country Club | alt= | url=https://www.grandfiestamericana.com/grand-fiesta-americana-guadalajara-country-club | email= | address=Av. de las Américas 1551, Providencia | lat=20.70293 | long=-103.37655 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3648 3535 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-12-01 | content=Try the rooftop bar here if you feel like something unique. }} ===Zapopan=== * {{drink | name=Mayas Bar | alt= | url=https://mayas-bar.business.site/ | email= | address=Prol. 20 De Noviembre 351, Zapopan | lat=20.72016 | long=-103.38803 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3633 4684 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10ː00-01ː00, Sa Su 10ː00-03ː00 | price= | content=This laid-back place in downtown Zapopan features food, drink and occasional live music. }} ==Sleep== If you plan to spend much time downtown, don't get a hotel farther away—it's much more convenient to be within walking distance of your daytime activities. ===Budget === There are many inexpensive hotels available in the city center, especially around the old bus station ''(Central Vieja / Antigua)''. ====in the Centro Histórico and around:==== *{{sleep | name=Hostel Hospedarte Guadalajara Centro | url=http://www.hostelguadalajara.com | email= | address=Maestranza 147, Zona Centro | lat=20.67447 | long=-103.34557 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3562 7520 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content=This youth hostel is in a stately National Heritage building from the 19th century. Reading room, common area with TV, free wireless Internet. Organized tours to [[Tequila]] leave regularly from the hostel, including two distilleries. }} ====in Colonia Americana:==== * {{sleep | name=Hostal Casa Colores | alt= | url=https://casacoloreshostal.mxhotel.site/en/ | email= | address=Calle Efraín González Luna 1844, Col Americana | lat=20.66995 | long=-103.36537 | directions= | phone=+52 33 2688 8523 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$300 | lastedit=2025-02-05 | content=Has sun deck, garden, movie nights, shared kitchen, walking tours, bar crawls, a library, and wifi. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostel Hospedarte Chapultepec | alt= | url=http://hospedartehostels.com/ | email= | address=Calle Efraín González Luna 2075, Col Americana | lat=20.66969 | long=-103.37026 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3615 4957 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$340 | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-05 | content=The counterpart to the downtown Hostel Hospedarte; if you stay at this one, you'll be close to the Chapultepec venues. This hostel includes a free breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Bohostel | url=http://www.bohostel.mx/ | address=Calle Efraín González Luna 2097, Col Americana | lat=20.670188145321415 | long=-103.37019301230436 | phone=+52 33 2832 2469 | checkin=14:00 | checkout=11:00 | price=M$400 | lastedit=2025-02-01 | content=Clean, comfortable rooms in a friendly atmosphere. Rooftop lounge area and a cafe on the ground floor. Has private rooms but bathrooms are shared. Mature clientele. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Irake | url=https://www.casairake.com/ | address=Calle Francisco I. Madero 1038, Col Americana | lat=20.673962460611225 | long=-103.36195326629003 | phone=+52 33 1902 1140 | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$700 | lastedit=2025-02-01 | content=Attractively decorated home with comfortable private rooms as well as beds in a dorm with shared bath. Common areas include a rooftop terrace. }} ====around the Old Bus Station (Antigua) south of the Centro Histórico:==== The stated prices here are as of December 2021 for two persons per night and only when reserved directly at the hotel. All listed hotel rooms are with private bathroom, hot water and without A/C. Be mindful of security as this neighborhood is sketchy at the best of times. * {{sleep | name=Hotel Costa Brava| url= | email= | address= Calz Independencia Sur 739| lat= 20.6642820 | long= -103.3475740 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$320 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Flamingos| url= | email= | address= Calz Independencia Sur 725| lat= 20.6644787| long= -103.3474278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$350 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Canada| url= | email= | address= Av. Miguel Alemán 911| lat=20.6630476 | long= -103.3464129| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$320 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Susy| url= | email= | address= C. Analco 791, Las Conchas| lat=20.6613582 | long= -103.3426719| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$250 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Hotel Royal| url= | email= | address=C. Los Ángeles 115-B| lat= 20.6634199| long=-103.3455653| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$275 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} *{{sleep | name= Hotel Union| url= | email= | address=Av. Dr. Roberto Michel 218| lat= 20.6631966| long= -103.3458671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$270 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2021-12-01 | content= }} ===Mid-Range=== ====in the Centro Histórico and around:==== * {{sleep | name=Real Maestranza Hotel | alt= | url=https://realmaestranzahotel.com/index.html | email= | address=Calle Francisco I. Madero 161 | lat=20.67357 | long=-103.34564 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 6101 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=around M$1,000 | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-12-02 | content=A boutique hotel with some old world charm such as interior murals and arches. It has a breakfast buffet and restaurant and bar. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel de Mendoza | url=http://www.demendoza.com.mx | email= | address=Venustiano Carranza 16, Zona Centro | lat=20.67796 | long=-103.34434 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3942 5151 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=around M$1,000 (Dec 2021) | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | content=At the Hotel de Mendoza, guests can stay in a peaceful, airy ambience within walking distance of all Centro Histórico destinations. Rooms (including suites) include free WiFi, 32-inch flat screen TVs, and charming colonial decor; the hotel also has a business center, gym, restaurant and outdoor pool. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel San Francisco Plaza | url=http://www.sanfranciscohotel.com.mx | email= | address=Degollado 267, Zona Centro | lat=20.67264 | long=-103.34526 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3613 3256 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=around M$900(Dec 2021) | checkin=12:00 | checkout=14:00 | content= In operation since 1986, this colonial-style hotel is a few blocks from the storied Teatro Degollado and is centered on two covered courtyards. There are some awful rooms, so it's worth talking to the person you reserve with to see what it will cost to get a room on one of the courtyards, on an upper floor, and away from the north side of the building where there is quite a bit of traffic. Merced is a good guy to talk with about this or anything else. Although he denies being "el jefe", he seems to be in charge. Air conditioning, full baths, free WiFi. Suites available. Personal laundry available for a small fee. Breakfasts at the hotel restaurant ("Don Quijote") are very good. Beatriz, the usual morning waitress, is a bundle of sunshine. }} ====in Minerva, Chapultepec, Zapopan and west of the Centro Histórico:==== * {{sleep | name=Fiesta Americana | alt= | url=https://www.fiestamericana.com/en/hotels-resorts/fiesta-americana-guadalajara | email= | address=Av, Calle Aurelio Aceves No. 225, Vallarta Poniente | lat=20.67361 | long=-103.38916 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3818 1400 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | price= | content=The Fiesta Americana is in a quiet yet hip residential area in the shadow of the Glorieta de la Minerva monument. Its lively nightclub attracts its share of hip young locals. It's a business hotel, minutes from the World Trade Center Guadalajara and has the city's second-largest convention center. Each room has a coffeemaker, minibar, and cable television, with deluxe rooms also have individual sofas with footrests and phones. Business center and room service operate 24 hours a day. The hotel offers a fitness center, laundry, dry cleaning and ironing service, gift shop, currency exchange, concierge, restaurant, airport shuttle.. There's free high-speed wireless Internet all over the property. Parking comes with complimentary valet service. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel NH Guadalajara | url=http://www.nh-hotels.com/nh/en/hotels/mexico/guadalajara/nh-guadalajara.html | email= | address=Sao Paulo 2334, Providencia | lat=20.70173 | long=-103.37709 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3648 9500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$1083/night | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | content=A luxury business hotel next to Country Club Guadalajara in the heart of one of the city's financial districts, this high-rise hotel has 137 guest rooms with contemporary decor, amenities, and, in many cases, views over the city. Free WiFi, fitness center, restaurant ("Nhube") and garden bar, conference center, concierge services and complimentary shoeshine. Suites available. }} * {{sleep | name=IbeuroHotel | alt= | url=http://www.ibeurohotel.com.mx | email= | address=Mariano Otero 3235, Fraccionamiento Valle Verde | lat=20.65376 | long=-103.39316 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3134 3230 | tollfree= | checkin=13:00 | checkout=12:30 | price=around M$700 (Dec 2021) | content=Decent prices here, but you get what you pay for. For a large business hotel—one directly next to the Expo Guadalajara convention center, no less—this place skimps on the amenities. Still, the rooms are clean and all the basics are covered: color television, air conditioning, telephone, free wireless Internet, laundry and dry cleaning. Adequate if unimpressive food is served in the cafeteria. Private covered parking lot. }} * {{sleep | name=La Mansión del Sol | url=http://www.lamansiondelsol.com/ | email= | address=Moctezuma 1596, Ciudad del Sol, Zapopan | lat=20.65110 | long=-103.40840 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3647 4762 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=around M$1,000 (Dec 2021) | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | content="Modern yet unmistakably Mexican" is a good way to describe the decor of this luxury boutique hotel in Zapopan. Manicured exterior with sitting areas, a fountain, palm trees and ubiquitous hummingbirds surround this lovely property whose airy rooms boast all the modern amenities: 32" LCD flat-screen TV's, CD stereo system, alarm clock, hair dryer, workspace, free wireless Internet, ironing board, and dessert minibars. Other amenities include an on-site bar and restaurant ("Los Colibríes"), laundry and dry-cleaning service, sauna and steam room, business center, gym, complimentary continental breakfast, and room service. }} * {{sleep | name=Del Marqués Hotel and Suites | alt= | url=http://delmarques.com/ | email= | address=Victoriano Salado Álvarez 72, Ladrón de Guevara | lat=20.6772 | long=-103.38117 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 3048 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=around M$700 (Dec 2021) | content=An all-suite property near the charming Minerva district. The living areas, kitchenettes, and work areas all have modern decor and amenities such as air conditioning and free WiFi. Some suites also have full kitchens. There's also a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Villa Ganz | url=http://en.villaganz.com | email= | address=Calle Manuel López Cotilla 1739, Col Americana | lat=20.67355| long=-103.37223 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3120 1416 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=M$1062/night | checkin= | checkout= | content=In the heart of the Zona Rosa. A 1930s mansion-turned-boutique hotel. Villa Ganz's ten suites are named after Jalisciense author Juan Rolfo's literary creations. Amenities include air conditioning, cable TV, hair dryers, and free WiFi, antique furnishings and decor, custom-designed toiletries, designer bathrobes and slippers, bedding and duvets containing imported goose, bookcases containing a wide-ranging selection of literature, and elegant French doors looking out either onto the peaceful garden or lively Avenida López Cotilla. A concierge is on staff. Guests at Villa Ganz also receive complimentary access to the Kristal Century gym, one block away from the hotel—this includes yoga, Pilates, and dance classes. Complimentary breakfast is served, as well as wine and appetizers in the evening. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Velvet Plaza | alt= | url=http://hotelvelvetplaza.com/ | email= | address=Av. Ignacio L. Vallarta 2477, Arcos Vallarta | lat=20.67427 | long=-103.38209 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3882 4500 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=M$842 | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-01 | content=Rooftop pool for relaxing and city views and a restaurant that serves breakfast are some of the perks at this mid-city hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Venezuela | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Venezuela 459, Col Americana | lat=20.66989 | long=-103.36301 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3826 6590 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | content=This charming B&B a few blocks off hip Avenida Chapultepec has three rooms decorated in Old Mexico style. Guest rooms have hair dryers, and TVs with DVD player. The breakfast offers American and Mexican specialties served on locally-produced crockery. Complimentary cocktails are served on the terrace each evening. The American-born owner, George, has an encyclopedic knowledge about everything Guadalajara and the surrounding vicinity have to offer. }} ====in Tlaquepaque and east of the Centro Histórico:==== *{{sleep | name=Hotel La Calandria | alt= | url=http://www.lascalandrias.com.mx/ | email= | address=Estadio 100, Las Conchas | lat=20.66270 | long=-103.34597 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3619 6579 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=What this hotel lacks in luxury, it more than makes up for in old-Mexico charm. A very clean and generally very nice property for very reasonable prices. Bilingual staff, WiFi available in public areas. It's a short distance south of the Centro Histórico, near Parque Agua Azul and the old bus station, where buses leave regularly for popular regional destinations such as Cocula and Tequila. On-street parking, but there are many free parking lots available (including Walmart, which is also nearby). }} * {{sleep | name=Quinta Don José | url=http://www.quintadonjose.com | email= | address=Reforma 139, Tlaquepaque Centro, Tlaquepaque | lat=20.63745 | long=-103.31222 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3635 7522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | content=Charming 19-room boutique hotel in the heart of Old Tlaquepaque. Amenities include high-speed WiFi, cable TV, air conditioning, complimentary continental breakfast (a full breakfast featuring traditional Mexican favorites is also available for an extra fee), an onsite tequila bar and restaurant ('''TlaquePasta'''). Landscaped exterior, tiled pool, manicured gardens, and a leafy terrace. Airy, sun-drenched rooms decorated with Old Mexican traditionalism and contemporary simplicity. The hotel organizes group tours of the artisan workshops that have made Tlaquepaque famous, and excursions to the Laguna de Chapala, Guachimontones, Tequila, and downtown Guadalajara (20 minutes away by car). }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Quinta Real Guadalajara | alt= | url=https://www.grupocaminoreal.com/quinta-real-guadalajara | email= | address=Av. Mexico 2727 | lat=20.679503 | long=-103.385203 | directions= | phone=+52 33 3669 0600 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=M$2500 | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=Elegant, traditional hotel with classic [[Haciendas|hacienda]]-style design. Rooms are large, clean, and opulently furnished, including high-end toiletries and quality linens. An on-site restaurant serves an extensive breakfast buffet that includes fresh fruits, baked sweet breads, and made-to-order omelettes. }} ==Stay safe== Guadalajara is known as one of the safest cities in Mexico. Nonetheless, as in any large city, the usual precautions should be taken. Crimes against tourists and foreign students are quite infrequent and mostly take the form of purse-snatching. Criminals usually work in teams and target travelers in outdoor restaurants, bars and other busy places. Should anyone spill something on you, be alert to your surroundings and step away—accidental spills are a common method of distracting their marks. ''Never'' carry illegal substances with you; Mexican police are very strict regarding these cases. '''In case of emergency, dial 911''', the number for all emergencies (fire, police and medical) in Mexico. English-speaking operators are not guaranteed, but are often available. In an emergency, it's also a good idea to contact your embassy or consulate. For non-emergencies, dial 078 to reach the [[Driving in Mexico#Green Angels|Green Angels]], an English-speaking [[Automobile associations|roadside and travel assistance program]]. ===Drug cartels=== Like most of Mexico's Pacific coast states, regional drug cartels are known to operate in [[Jalisco]]. These cartels have strong incentives to keep money flowing at popular places, which requires peace and safety for visitors. In February 2026, a security operation against a Jalisco drug cartel sparked clashes throughout the region, including in tourist areas that have largely avoided attacks in the past. Vehicles and stores were looted, stolen and set on fire. From a traveler's perspective, this turned out to be more of a violent demonstration than a deadly attack, as there were no deaths reported other than security forces and suspected cartel members. Nonetheless, flights were cancelled and tourists were advised to shelter in place until the situation settled down over the next few days. Drug cartels commonly use arson to create chaos, especially by creating roadblocks that slow security response and grind a city to a halt. Keep your supply of treated drinking water topped off and keep around things to snack on, in case shops close or you're stuck in your hotel due to any number of possible natural or man-made disasters. ===Football=== Due to the intense rivalry between local club Chivas and [[Mexico City]]-based Club América, you should avoid wearing Club América jerseys in Guadalajara unless you want to risk getting singled out for harassment or worse by local fans. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== Most consulates are honorary which means they offer limited services to travelers and their nationals living in the area and usually available by appointment or in emergencies only. The nearest city for additional foreign consulates is in [[Mexico City#Embassies|Mexico City]]: * {{flag|Canada}} {{listing | name=Canada | alt= | url=https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/mexico-mexique/guadalajara.aspx?lang=eng| email= | address=World Trade Center, Av. Mariano Otero 1249, Torre Pacifico Piso 8, Col. Rinconada del Bosque, C.P. 44530 Guadalajara| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +52 33 1818-4200 | fax= +52 33 1818-4210 | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-24 | content=Call collect +1 613 996 8885 for emergencies only. }} * {{flag|Colombia}} {{listing | name=Colombia | alt= | url=https://guadalajara.consulado.gov.co/ | email= | address=Ave Acueducto 4851, Piso 10, Interior 2 y 4, Edificio Corporativo Acueducto | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 4737-5700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-25 | content=+52 33 1990-4857 for emergencies only. }} * {{flag|El Salvador}} {{listing | name=El Salvador| alt= | url=https://rree.gob.sv/servicios-consulares/| email= | address=Galeria Exhimoda Av. Ignacio L. Vallarta 3233, local 12-F, C.P. 44110 Guadalajara | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3685-9415 | tollfree=800-747-6117 | hours=M-F 09:00-17:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-24 | content=Click this [https://portalcitas.rree.gob.sv/ link] to make an online appointment }} * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany (Honorary) | alt= | url=https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/about-us/auslandsvertretungen/740206-740206 | email= | address=Calle 7 No. 319, Colonia Ferrocarril, C.P. 44440 Guadalajara. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3810-2146| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-25 | content= }} * {{flag|Guatemala}} {{listing | name=Guatemala | alt= | url=https://www.minex.gob.gt/din/2953-consulado-honorario-de-guatemala-en-guadalajara | email=cruza@prodigy.net.mx. | address=Mango 1440-A, Colonia del Fresno, C.P. 44500, Guadalajara | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3811 1503 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 09:00-14:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-24 | content=Look them on [https://www.facebook.com/EmbaGuateMexico/ Facebook] }} * {{flag|Netherlands}} {{listing | name=Netherlands (Honorary) | alt= | url=https://www.netherlandsandyou.nl/web/mexico-en/about-us/honorary-consul-guadalajara | email= | address=Calle Ottawa 1360, Col Providencia, C.P. 44630 Guadalajara | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 4545-8115 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-02-25 | content= }} * {{flag|Spain}} {{listing | name=Spain | url=https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Consulados/guadalajara/ | email= | address=Avenida Pablo Neruda No. 2710, 5 piso, Edificio ALTUS. Colonia Providencia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3630 0450 | tollfree= | fax=+52 33 3616 0396 | hours=M-F 09ː00 - 13ː00, closed Sa-Su | price= | content=The consulate provides a range of services to Spanish citizens traveling or living in Mexico, including birth certificates, travel documents, and official government records. Visa or permit services are also available to Mexicans and other foreigners traveling to or doing business in Spain. Persons with other official business can contact the embassy in [[Mexico City]].) }} * {{flag|Romania}} {{listing | name=Romania (Honorary) | url=https://mae.ro/romanian-missions/3395#861 | email=consulrumania@grupocube.com | address=Torre Cube, Blvd. Puerta de Hierro 5210 Piso 12 –C, Colonia Puerta de Hierro, Zapopan | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 334 35 100, + 52 33 334 35 200 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Honorary Consulate (Does not provide consular services. Instead, Romanian citizens in need of assistance should contact the embassy in [[Mexico City]].) }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States | url=https://mx.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/guadalajara/ | email=usconsulategdl@megared.net.mx; acsgdl@state.gov | address=Progreso 175, Americana | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 33 3268 2100 | tollfree= | fax=+52 33 3826 6549 | hours=M-Th 09:00-13:00 | price= | content= }} == Go next == Your next destination for staying can be...: ===To the east=== *'''[[Guanajuato]]''' – 275 km. A beautiful mountain colonial town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A variety of mines are there to be visited. In the evening you can join traditionally dressed Mexicans singing and walking through the old-town. *'''[[San Miguel de Allende]]''' – 340 km. A city known for relaxing. There are thermal pools just outside the city. The old town is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. *'''[[Querétaro]]''' – 360 km. Capital of the state Quéretaro. A big aqueduct goes through the city. You can taste a Gordita Queretana. The old town is – you guess it – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ===To the north-east=== *'''[[San Juan de los Lagos]]''' – 145 km. The second-most visited pilgrimage site in Mexico (after the Basílica de Guadalupe in Mexico City). *'''[[San Luis Potosí]]''' – 330 km. The capital of the state of San Luis Potosí. The historic center displays a great mixture of different artistic styles and is a major example of colonial architecture in Mexico. The historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ===To the west=== *'''[[Puerto Vallarta]]''' – 330 km. Nearby are the coastal villages [[Bucerias]], [[Sayulita]] and [[San Francisco (Mexico)]] ===To the north-west=== *'''[[Tepic]]''' – 205 km. The capital of Nayarit *'''[[Mazatlan]]''' – It's recommended to take a flight into and out of the city. ===By air=== Guadalajara has low-cost flights for example to: *'''[[Cabo San Lucas]]''' and '''[[La Paz (Mexico)|La Paz]]''' on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. * '''[[Oaxaca (city)|Oaxaca]]''' * '''[[Tuxtla Gutiérrez|Tuxtla]]''' in Chiapas * '''[[Puerto Vallarta]]''' and '''[[Puerto Escondido]]''' at the Pacific coast * '''[[Cancún]]''' and '''[[Mérida (Mexico)|Mérida]]''' on the Yucatan peninsula * '''[[Mexico City]]''' {{routebox | image1=Carretera federal 15.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Tepic]] | minorl1=[[Tequila]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Zamora de Hidalgo]] | minorr1=[[San Luis Soyatlán]] }} {{isPartOf|Jalisco}} {{guidecity}} {{geo|20.666667|-103.35}} k46mkirb3oy6t1oupfh5qndgu979tmm 0 13976 5289021 5201116 2026-06-07T08:55:26Z ~2026-33687-79 2419474 /* Eat */ Deleted listing for Winner Winner 5289021 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Hamilton NZ banner Balloons over the Domain.JPG|pgname=Hamilton|caption=Hot air balloons float over Innes Common, Hamilton}} '''Hamilton''' (''Kirikiriroa in [[Māori phrasebook|Māori]]'') is an inland city in the [[Waikato]] region of [[New Zealand|New Zealand's]] [[North Island]]. In 2020, Hamilton was awarded the title of most beautiful large city in New Zealand. Hamilton Gardens is the region's most popular tourist attraction. ==Understand == The area now covered by the city was originally the site of several Māori villages, including Kirikiriroa, from which the city takes its Māori name. By the time English settlers arrived, most of these villages, which sat beside the Waikato River, were abandoned as a result of the Invasion of Waikato and land confiscation (Raupatu) by the Crown. The settlers developed the city as an agricultural service centre, but it now has a diverse economy and is the third fastest growing urban area in New Zealand, behind Pukekohe and Auckland. In 2023, it was home to 185,000 people. The Waikato River, New Zealand's longest river, flows through the middle of the city. This effectively cuts the city in half, with Hamilton West containing the central business district and main shopping areas, and Hamilton East home to the University of Waikato and a large student population. ==Get in== [[File:Hamilton Gardens - Te Parapara Garden.jpg|thumb|Hamilton Gardens - Te Parapara Garden]] ===By bus=== Long-distance buses can be sometimes full, and sometimes empty, so it can pay to book a few days in advance. Booking in advance (particularly on the internet) can also save money - up to half the fare in some cases. In any case, travelling by bus is generally a cheap option, albeit a bit slow at times. *'''[http://www.intercity.co.nz/ InterCity Coachlines]''', {{phone|+64 9 583 5780}}, is New Zealand's national coach company and operates over 150 services to more than 600 destinations nationwide. *'''[http://busit.co.nz/regional-services/ BUSIT]''' services from towns in the region. ===By car=== Because New Zealand's major highway (SH 1) skirts the city, getting to Hamilton is simple. Drive south down State Highway 1 (SH 1) from Auckland. Drive northbound on SH 1 from Taupo, or connect to SH 1 from Rotorua or the [[Bay of Plenty]]. ===By train=== The [https://www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz/northern-explorer/ Northern Explorer] train runs 3 days a week from Auckland to Hamilton (departs 7:45AM, arrives 10:15AM), at $48 per person one way, then continues to Wellington. It runs from Wellington to Hamilton on 3 other days a week (departs 7:55AM, arrives 4:30PM), costing from $139, and providing an opportunity to take in some beautiful New Zealand scenery, and the famous Raurimu Rail Spiral. See also: [[Rail travel in New Zealand]]. The [https://www.tehuiatrain.co.nz/ '''Te Huia'''] passenger service runs between Hamilton and '''Papakura''' in [[Auckland/South Auckland|South Auckland]], where connections to central Auckland are available. There are between two and three round trips on weekdays and Saturdays. * {{go | name=Hamilton Rotokauri Transport Hub | alt= | url= | email= | address=103 Tasman Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q60712974 | lastedit=2021-02-16 | content= }} * {{go | name=Hamilton Frankton railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address=Fraser St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24189600 | lastedit=2021-02-11 | content= }} ===By plane=== '''[https://www.hamiltonairport.co.nz/ Hamilton Airport]''' hosts domestic flights, as well as low-cost carrier flights to/from Australia. Air New Zealand has regular direct flights from: *[[Palmerston North]] – 50-minute flight *[[Wellington]] – fares start at $70 one way for a 70-minute journey *[[Christchurch]] – fares start at $135 one way direct for a 1 hr 50 minute journey (fares start at $70 if you stop in Wellington for half an hour) There are often limited specials available to/from Hamilton available on [http://www.grabaseat.co.nz/ Grab-a-seat], Air NZ's website for its specials. The airport is 14 km (9 mi) from town, so allow time for airport transfers. Taxis and shuttle buses are available. Passengers who arrive on flights late in the evening on Fridays and Saturdays should arrange transport in advance as taxis can be scarce. Fog can close the airport on winter mornings. ==Get around== {{mapframe|-37.7886|175.2821|zoom=13}} A bus service is provided by Environment Waikato. Routes and times are available online [http://busit.co.nz/hamilton-routes/], and cover the whole city. If you intend to use the bus service frequently, it may be worth getting a [https://beecard.co.nz/ Bee Card], an electronic card that can be used in most small NZ towns. The card costs $5, but will possibly save you money due to the discounts it provides on fares – a single way ticket with a Bee Card inside the city costs just $2 per trip, capped at a maximum of $18 per week or 10 trips. All travel after this cap is free. ==See== * {{see | name=Hamilton Gardens | alt= | url=https://hamiltongardens.co.nz | email= | address= | lat=-37.8040 | long=175.3018 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10:00–17:00 (April–October) / 10:00–18:00 (November–March) | price=$20 | lastedit=2025-05-11 | content=In addition to 'normal' gardens such as a rose garden and the Rhododendron Lawn, you can see 'themed' gardens, such as the Chinese Scholar Garden, or the American Revolutionist Garden, among others. |wikidata=Q5644961}} * {{see | name=Hamilton Zoo | alt= | url=http://www.hamiltonzoo.co.nz | email= | address=Brymer Rd | lat=-37.7745 | long=175.2148 | directions= | phone=+64 7 7 838 6720 | tollfree= | fax= | lastedit=2021-04-25 | hours=Daily 9AM-5PM, last admission 3:30PM | price=$26, children $12 | wikipedia=Hamilton Zoo | wikidata=Q3115846 | content=Home to over 600 native New Zealand and exotic animals. Kids especially enjoy it. To get there, enter Hamilton from the north or south on SH1, and look for the signs on the section of SH1 called Avalon Drive (Te Rapa area in the north). }} * {{see | name=Waikato Museum | alt= | url=http://waikatomuseum.co.nz/ | email= | address=1 Grantham St | lat=-37.78981 | long=175.28655 | directions=south end of Victoria St | phone=+64 7 838 6606 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM-4:30PM | price=Free entry; charges may apply for some exhibitions | content=General art and culture displays and exhibits about New Zealand and international cultures. }} * {{see | name=Zeelong Tea estate | alt= | url=https://zealong.com/ | email= | address=495 Gordonton Road | lat=-37.707701 | long=175.299866 | directions=15 minutes drive from city centre | phone=+64 7 853 3018 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-04-26 | content=Only commercial tea farm in NZ. Tours, restaurant and retail shop. }} ==Do== [[File:BoW nightglow1.jpg|thumb|Night glow at the Balloons over Waikato festival]] * {{do | name=Agricultural Fieldays | alt= | url=http://www.fieldays.co.nz/ | email= | address=Mystery Creek Events Centre, 125 Mystery Creek Road | lat=-37.8730 | long=175.3485 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=$25 | lastedit=2016-10-31 | content=Hosted at Mystery Creek, brings thousands of people (130,000 in 2016) from around the world. Taking place every June, this is a must-see for an insight to farming in New Zealand. }} * {{do | name=Hot Air Balloon Festival | alt= | url=http://www.balloonsoverwaikato.co.nz | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Each April is worth a look, especially the night glow event. }} * {{do | name=Hamilton Garden Arts Festival | alt= | url=http://www.hamiltongardensartsfestival.co.nz | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Takes place every year at the end of February. Hosted in the renowned Hamilton Gardens, it includes music, theatre and film. }} * {{do | name=Waikato Stadium | alt=FMG Stadium Waikato | url=http://www.waikatostadium.co.nz/ | email= | address=128 Seddon Rd, Whitiora | lat=-37.7810384 | long=175.2678425 | directions= | phone=+64 7-929 3000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-08-18 | content=The home stadium of the Chiefs (Super Rugby) and the Waikato Rugby Union (Mitre 10 Cup). In 2023 it staged matches in the Women's World Cup for soccer, co-hosted by NZ and Australia. }} * {{do | name=New Zealand Sevens | alt= | url=http://www.sevens.co.nz/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=early February | price= | wikipedia=New Zealand national rugby sevens team | lastedit=2019-12-27 | content=The annual rugby sevens tournament, the fourth on the World Rugby Sevens Series circuit, will be played in Tauranga in 2020. The event, held in early February, involves teams from 16 countries. When held in Wellington, the event attracted over thirty thousand spectators annually. The tournament has become one of New Zealand's leading sporting events. It also has a reputation for a party atmosphere, with a large proportion of attendees choosing to wear fancy dress. Large groups of costumes have varied from Fred Flintstone and Wilma to Care Bears, dance troops, wrestlers and items of recent media interest or advertisements. }} * {{do | name=Seddon Park | alt= | url=https://seddonpark.com/ | email= | address=Seddon Rd | lat=-37.7867 | long=175.2742 | directions= | phone=+64 7 929 3000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Seddon Park | lastedit=2023-10-04 | content=This cricket ground occasionally hosts Tests. Its capacity is only 10,000, so it's often likened to a village green. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Centre Place Mall | alt= | url=http://www.centreplace.co.nz/ | email= | address=Cnr of Ward and Worley Sts | lat= | long= | directions=in the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th & Sa 9AM-5:30PM, F 9AM-8:30PM, Su 10AM-4PM | price= | lastedit=2017-05-30 | content=The mall includes cafes, restaurants and clothing stores. }} * {{buy | name=The Base Te Rapa | alt= | url=http://www.the-base.co.nz/ | email= | address=Cnr of Te Rapa Road and Avalon Drive | lat= | long= | directions=on the northern outskirt of the city | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-6PM, Su 10AM-5PM | price= | content=The Base includes a mall (Te Awa) and many department stores. }} * {{buy | name=ArtsPost Galleries | alt= | url=http://waikatomuseum.co.nz/artspost/ | email= | address=120 Victoria St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+64 7 838 6928 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM-4:30PM | price=Free | content=An art gallery showcasing local work. Well worth a visit, and also offers a range of items for sale, from paintings to glass blown paperweights. }} *'''Casabella Lane''' is located on Barton St and contains many boutique stores, and many cafes. Make your way to the developing vibe of Hamilton East's Grey Street. A place to find a unique store or funky café or bar. == Eat== * {{eat | name=Iguana | alt= | url=http://www.iguana.co.nz | email= | address=203 Victoria St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+64 7 8342280 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A central city restaurant offering mainly pizza and salads. }} * {{eat | name=The Londoner | alt= | url= | email= | address=596 Victoria St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+64 7 839 9941 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An English-style pub at the end of Victoria Street. }} ==Drink== Most of Hamilton's clubs are with easy walking distance of each other, in the Victoria/Hood/Alexandra Street area. * {{drink | name=The Outback | alt= | url=http://www.outback.co.nz/ | email= | address=cnr Victoria & Hood Sts | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A typical student bar and the main bar for the university orientation week. }} * {{drink | name=Zone Bar | alt= | url=http://www.skycityhamilton.co.nz/Restaurants/Zone-Sports-Bar.html | email= | address=Skycity, Level 2, 346 Victoria St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The main sport bar in the city, in the Skycity casino building. Includes a deck with views over the river. Also on the same floor as a bowling alley and laser tag activities. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Microtel Backpackers | alt=formerly YHA | url=http://www.microtel.co.nz/ | email= | address=140 Ulster St | lat=-37.7780 | long=175.2724 | directions= | phone=+64 7 957 1848 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$29 for a bed, $49 for a single room, $69 for a double | lastedit=2017-01-25 | content=Nice hostel, but single rooms are tiny. }} * {{sleep | name=Backpackers Central | alt= | url=http://www.backpackerscentral.co.nz/ | email= | address=846 Victoria St | lat=-37.78084 | long=175.27762 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-31 | content=Central location and breakfast is included, but some rooms don't have windows and so get hot in summer }} ===Bed & breakfast=== *{{sleep | name=City Centre Hamilton Bed and Breakfast | url=http://www.citycentrebnb.co.nz | email= | address=3 Anglesea St, Central | lat=-37.79657 | long=175.28801 | directions= | phone=+64 7 8381671 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= A studio cottage sleeping up to three people and includes a kitchenette, bathroom, off-street parking, free Internet access. Five minutes walk from central Hamilton. }} *{{sleep | name=Shailers Bed & Breakfast | url=http://www.shailers.co.nz | email= | address=1447 Kakaramea Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+64 7 825 2729 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Luxury homestay or farmstay 12 minutes drive from Hamilton, in the heart of New Zealand's most fertile region, the Waikato. Tours of the three-hundred cow dairy farm. }} ===Serviced apartments=== * {{sleep | name=Quest Apartments Hamilton | alt= | url=http://www.questapartments.co.nz/ | email= | address=42-47 Ward St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+64 7 8391676 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=26 1-bedroom units and 3 studio units in central Hamilton. Easy access to the main bars, casinos, shopping and Hamilton's information centre. }} ===Hotel=== * {{sleep | name=Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton | alt= | url=https://www.scenichotelgroup.co.nz/locations/new-zealand/hamilton/heartland-ambassador-hotel-hamilton | email=hamilton@heartlandhotels.co.nz | address=86 Ulster St, Whitioria | lat=-37.77835 | long=175.27409 | directions= | phone=+64 7 839 5111 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2020-10-23 | content=Free WiFi, outdoor pool, hot tub, BBQ facilities. }} * {{sleep | name=Ibis Tainui | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6690/index.en.shtml | email= | address=18 Alma St | lat= | long= | directions=on the riverbank | phone=+64 7 859 9200 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Many rooms include a view of the city's majestic river. }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel Hamilton | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/2159/index.en.shtml | email= | address=7 Alma St | lat= | long= | directions=centre of town | phone=+64 7 838 1366 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=The city's largest hotel and the only 4.5-star rated hotel, next to Hamilton's only casino. }} * {{sleep | name=Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton | alt= | url=http://www.venturainns.co.nz | email= | address=23 Clarence St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+64 7 838 0110 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Centrally located. }} ==Go next== *[[Cambridge (New Zealand)|Cambridge]] *[[Matamata]] is about 45 minutes away - follow SH 1, turning off towards Tauranga onto SH 29, and then turning off towards Matamata onto SH 27. A small rural community of about 12,000 people, its main claim to fame is that it was the filming site for the Lord of the Rings - in particular the Shire. Visitors are able to visit [http://www.hobbitontours.com/ Hobbiton], though reservations need to made in advance. *[[Pirongia]] *[[Raglan (New Zealand)|Raglan]] is a beachside town about 50 km (31 mi) away. Simply follow SH 23 out of Hamilton to get there. The town is well known for its excellent surf beaches, including Indicators, Whale Bay, and Manu Bay. There are several [http://busit.co.nz/regional-services/raglan/ buses] a day here. *[[Rotorua]] is a major destination roughly an hour and a half away. Follow SH 1 and then turn onto SH 5 at Tirau. *[[Waitomo]] {{usablecity}} {{geo|-37.7833|175.2833}} {{isPartOf|Waikato}} ojg7p8j4ekap1wervw8dp6rnbq6lbjm 0 14290 5288925 5279355 2026-06-06T18:08:41Z Anyone150 1516949 /* Go next */ 5288925 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Hawaii banner Na Pali Coast.jpg|caption=From a trail along Kauai's Na Pali Coast}} '''Hawaii''' ([[Hawaiian phrasebook|Hawaiian]]: ''Hawaiʻi'', sometimes pronounced ''ha-VAI-ee'' by locals) is the 50th state of the [[United States]]. Situated nearly at the center of the north Pacific Ocean, Hawaii marks the northeast corner of [[Polynesia]]. While it was once a major hub for the whaling, sugar and pineapple industries, it is now economically dependent on tourism and the U.S. military. The natural beauty of the islands continues to be one of Hawaii's greatest assets. [[Honolulu]] is the state's capital, largest city, and cultural hub. [[Hawaiian]] and English are the official languages of Hawaii. ==Islands== Hawaii is an archipelago of over 19 volcanic islands spread over a geological "hot spot" in the Central Pacific. The Pacific plate on which the islands ride moves to the northwest, so in general the islands are older and smaller (due to erosion) as you move from southeast to northwest. There are eight major islands, six of which are open to tourism. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Hawaii regions map.png | regionmapsize=370px | region1name=[[Big Island|Hawaii]] | region1color=#b5d29f | region1items=''Hawaiʻi'' | region1description=Almost always called the '''Big Island''' to avoid confusion, it's the largest of the islands and home to Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa (the largest and one of the most active volcanoes on Earth), '''[[Hawaii Volcanoes National Park]]''', coffee and macadamia nut plantations, working ranches, and even green sand beaches. [[Kailua-Kona]] is the busiest part of the island on the dry, leeward side, and near the mega-resort Kohala Coast area with nearly zero annual precipitation. The saddle road (quite drivable and a must see – despite what rental car companies say) passes between the massive volcanoes and connects [[Kohala]] with [[Hilo]], the largest town on the Big Island and county seat with annual precipitation of more than {{in|300}} per year. Unlike anywhere else on Earth and definitely worth a look. | region2name=[[Oahu]] | region2color=#4f93c0 | region2items=''Oʻahu'' | region2description=Nicknamed "the Gathering Place," Oahu is the most populous and developed island. Its southern shore is home to the city of [[Honolulu]], the state capital and largest city; four out of every five ''kama'aina'' (Hawaii residents) call it home. It is the governmental and commercial center of the state, and [[Honolulu/Waikiki|Waikiki]] Beach is arguably the best known tourist destination in Hawaii. Outside the city are pineapple fields, and the [[North Shore (Oahu)|North Shore]] of Oahu, which is known each winter as the home of some of the largest waves in the world. The USS Arizona National Memorial at [[Pearl Harbor]] is also a very popular visitor destination. | region3name=[[Maui]] | region3color=#d56d76 | region3description=The second largest island in the chain, and home to the 10,023 foot (3,055 m) tall volcanic mountain crater of Haleakala. It is nicknamed "the Valley Isle" for the narrow plain between [[Haleakala National Park|Haleakala]] and the West Maui mountains. On the west side of the island are the resort areas of [[Lahaina]], [[Kaanapali]] and [[Kapalua]], while the south side is home to [[Kihei]], and [[Wailea]]. On the east side is the tiny village of [[Hana]], reached by one of the most winding and beautiful roads in the world. | region4name=[[Kauai]] | region4color=#71b37b | region4items=''Kauaʻi'' | region4description="The Garden Isle" is home to several natural wonders, such as the Wailua River, [[Waimea Canyon]], and the Na Pali Coast. Mount Waialeale is known as one of the rainiest spots in the world. It boasts the most beaches out of the major islands, with the longest being Polihale measuring {{mi|17}} in length. It's similar to the Big Island in that they have the most rural feel out of the 4 major islands. | region5name=[[Molokai]] | region5color=#578e86 | region5items=''Molokaʻi'' | region5description="The Friendly Isle" is the fifth largest and one of the least developed of the main Hawaiian Islands. It is home to Kalaupapa, the place where long term sufferers of Hansen's Disease (also known as leprosy) were forced into quarantine by the Hawaiian government until 1969. It is now known for pristine, breathtaking tropical landscapes, environmental stewardship, rich and deep Hawaiian traditions, and a visitor-friendly culture. | region6name=[[Lanai]] | region6color=#d5dc76 | region6items=''Lānaʻi'' | region6description=Known as "the Pineapple Isle," formerly the world’s largest pineapple plantation owned by Dole Foods; it is now home to two high-end resorts. Just 3,135 people live on its {{mi2|141}}. There are no traffic lights or bakeries. There is just one gas station and three main roads. It is ringed with vast and empty beaches, accessible only by four-wheel drive. | region7name=Niihau{{anchor|Niihau}} | region7color=#8a84a3 | region7items=''Niʻihau'' | region7description=A privately owned island with an entirely Native Hawaiian population. Until 1987, "the Forbidden Isle" was off limits to all but family members and invited guests of the owners. Tourism to the island is limited to helicopter, ATV, and hunting excursions originating on Kauai, and tourists are not permitted to visit the sole inhabited village on the island. There are around 130 Niihau residents and Hawaiian is the official language. They do not have running water, use solar power and live rent-free. | region8name=Kahoolawe{{anchor|Kahoolawe}} | region8color=#d09440 | region8items=''Kahoʻolawe'' | region8description=A former U.S. Navy bombing range, which remains uninhabited. Cleanup efforts to rehabilitate the island are continuing. }} ==Cities== The term "cities" is used here in a broad sense. Hawaii has no organized government below the county level. All communities that would be thought of as cities, towns, and the like in the rest of the US are merely "census-designated places", statistical entities established by the United States Census Bureau. {{Mapframe|21.3|-157.816667|zoom=6|height=|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Honolulu]]|url=|lat=21.3|long=-157.816667}} – state capital and most-populous community *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kahuku]]|url=|lat=21.680278|long=-157.950278}} – on Oahu *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kailua]]|url=|lat=21.3975|long=-157.739444}} – on Oahu *{{marker|type=city|name=Lihue|url=|lat=21.974722|long=-159.365556}} (Hawaiian: ''Līhuʻe'') – on Kauai *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Lahaina]]|url=|lat=20.886111|long=-156.674722}} (Hawaiian: ''Lāhainā'') – on Maui *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kahului]]|url=|lat=20.881667|long=-156.4675}} – on Maui *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Wailuku]]|url=|lat=20.891923|long=-156.502177}} – on Maui *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hilo]]|url=|lat=19.705556|long=-155.085833}} – largest community on the Big Island *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kailua-Kona]]|url=|lat=19.65|long=-155.994167}} – on the Big Island == Other destinations == [[File:Green sea turtle at Punaluu beach, Hawaii.jpg|thumb|250px|Green sea turtle at Punaluʻu Beach, Big Island]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail]]|url=|lat=18.911111|long=-155.681111}} on the Big Island. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Haleakala National Park]]|url=|lat=20.716667|long=-156.166667}} on Maui *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Hawaii Volcanoes National Park]]|url=|lat=19.383333|long=-155.2}} on the Big Island *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kalaupapa National Historical Park]]|url=|lat=21.189444|long=-156.981667}} on Moloka‘i *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park]]|url=|lat=19.421944|long=-155.910278}} on the Big Island *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Honolulu/Western#Pearl Harbor|USS Arizona National Memorial]]|url=|lat=21.365|long=-157.95}} on O‘ahu *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Waimea Canyon]]|url=|lat=20.020278|long=-155.667778}} on Kaua‘i *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Waikiki]]|url=|lat=21.2752|long=-157.8312}} on O‘ahu ==Understand== {{infobox|The name game|The [[:wikipedia:Reef triggerfish|reef triggerfish]] (''Rhinecanthus rectangulus''), the state fish of Hawaii, is known in the Hawaiian language as the ''humu&shy;humu&shy;nuku&shy;nuku&shy;āpuaʻa'', which means "triggerfish with a snout like a pig". It is not the longest Hawaiian fish name, as is often thought; that distinction instead goes to the ''lau&shy;wili&shy;wili&shy;nuku&shy;nukuʻoiʻoi'' ("long-snouted fish shaped like a wiliwili leaf"), the [[:wikipedia:Forcipiger longirostris|forceps butterflyfish]] (''Forcipiger longirostris'').}} The island of Oahu, the most populous and home to the state capital and largest city of Honolulu, is great for people who wish to experience the islands and still keep the conveniences of a large city. Rainforests and hiking trails are minutes from Waikiki Beach, one of the world's best tourist destinations. In the winter, large waves on Oahu's north shore turn the normally sleepy area into the surfing capital of the world. On the other hand, those who wish to experience Hawaii at a slower pace would do well to visit one of the Neighbor Islands (the other, less populated islands around Oahu). All the Neighbor Islands offer opportunities to relax and enjoy the sun and scenery. Many of the natural wonders of the islands are on the Neighbor Islands, from Waimea Canyon on Kauai, to Haleakala on Maui, to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. Numerous waterfalls and rainforests evoke memories of what the islands might have looked like before major corporations set their sights on Hawaii. The road to Hana is one of the most scenic on Maui, as you manipulate many turns overlooking the Eastern coast of the island. It leads you over bridges and past beautiful waterfalls. You can end up at the Oheo Gulch Pools (which are not sacred and there are more than seven), where the hiking is quite the experience. Several islands are recovering from severe and deadly wildfires in 2023. While some fire-affected areas remain closed to the public, visitation continues to be welcomed and encouraged throughout Maui and the islands of Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island. ===History=== Polynesians migrated to, and established communities on, the islands of Hawaii around 800 CE, part of the great expansion of [[In_the_footsteps_of_explorers#Discovering_the_Pacific_islands|Austronesian peoples]] that also populated most other Pacific islands. [[Voyages of James Cook|Captain James Cook]] was the first European visitor to the islands, arriving in 1778. At that time, each island was a separate kingdom. With the support of Western advisors and weapons, Kamehameha I of the island of Hawaii conquered all the islands except Kauai, which acquiesced to his rule in 1810. After Kamehameha II abolished the ''kapu'' (taboo) system, American missionaries came to the islands to spread Christianity. As the Native Hawaiians did not have any concept of owning land, the missionaries became official land owners of many of the islands. Their children became successful businessmen in the Islands and still own entire islands to this day. Pineapple and sugar cane plantations were established, and workers from other countries (in particular Japan, the Philippines, China, Korea and Portugal) were imported as contract laborers. Their descendants also became established as successful professionals. The Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown in 1893 by a group of American businessmen. While the U.S. administration at the time refused to annex the former sovereign nation, in 1898 the United States did annex the islands, which became a territory in 1900, and a state of the United States in 1959. Hawaii also became an important outpost for the U.S. military through the 20th century, and Pearl Harbor was the site of the Japanese attack on December 7, 1941, that resulted in the U.S. joining World War II (see [[Pacific War]]). Today, the military maintains its presence here, with several major military bases on the island of Oahu alone; Pearl Harbor remains the headquarters of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. Over the years, many major retail chains have expanded their presence in Hawaii, making the Islands look more and more like the continental United States, often at the expense of local businesses. Nevertheless, Hawaii remains culturally vibrant. Its population, descended from the Native Hawaiians, the original plantation workers, and more recent arrivals, and in which no one group has a majority, is often cited as an example of multiculturalism at its best. There is a strong commitment to perpetuating Native Hawaiian cultural traditions, and the cultural heritage of Hawaii's many immigrant communities from the Pacific, Asia and Europe. And certainly the environment is conducive to longevity. Hawaii has the longest predicted life expectancies of any U.S. state. ===Climate=== [[File:Rain at the Honolulu Museum of Art.jpg|thumb|You're more likely to be caught in the rain during the wet season (October to March).]] Depending on where you are in Hawaii, the weather can be very different over even short distances. On the same day, on Oahu you might find sun over the beaches in Waikiki and rain only a few miles away in Manoa Valley. Although the islands receive abundant amounts of both sunshine and rain, rain is more likely on the north and east sides of the islands, which face the prevailing northeasterly tradewinds (the "windward" side of the island), as well as the mountain peaks and valleys. The moist tropical air carried by the tradewinds is forced upward by the mountains, resulting in clouds and rain. Rain is less likely on the coastal areas of the "leeward" sides (the south and west sides) of the islands. Although there are no true "seasons" in the islands in the same sense as the rest of the U.S., the climate does go through annual cycles based on rainfall. The "wet" season in Hawaii (cooler temperatures and more rainfall) runs roughly from October to March, and the "dry" season (warmer temperatures and less rainfall) from April to September. There is therefore a higher probability of rain if you visit during the peak of tourist season in late December or January. Hurricane season in the islands runs from June to November. Although Hawaii's relative isolation means that it is affected only rarely by tropical cyclones, one of the storms or its remnants does hit or skirt the Islands every couple of years, such as Hurricanes Iwa and Iniki hitting Kauai in 1982 and 1992 respectively. Overall, Hawaii is warm and balmy — when you step out of the plane you'll immediately notice that the air is soft and humid — and during the summer months the tradewinds provide a pleasant breeze. Daytime temperatures generally range from the low 70s (21°C) in "winter" to the mid 80s (27°C) in "summer". Very rarely does the air temperature exceed 90°F (32°C) even in the hottest part of summer; however, the humidity will make it feel as if it were a few degrees hotter. Ocean temperatures range between 73°F (23°C) degrees in the winter to 78°F (25.5°C) in the summer. There is usually no more than a 20°F (12°C) difference between daytime high and nighttime low temperatures. Consequently, besides your driver's license, credit card, camera, binoculars, and other essentials, it's best to keep your clothes to a minimum... one or two pair of washable slacks/shorts, light shirts, walking shoes, sandals and swim gear. A light jacket or sweater may be necessary depending on when and where you go, but heavy clothing is not normally necessary in most areas. Sunscreen is essential since Hawaii's close proximity to the Equator translates into very strong sun radiation. The suitcase space you save can be used to fill up on island purchases. Although the above is true for most of the Islands, you will find exceptions. A good rule to remember is the higher the elevation, the cooler it will be. Upcountry areas of Kauai, Maui and the Big Island will be cooler during the day, in the 60s F, and much colder at night, in the 40s F. At the highest elevations on Maui and the Big Island, temperatures can drop to near freezing in places like Haleakala National Park, Volcanoes National Park, and Mauna Kea. On the Big Island, both of the largest mountains, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, can receive snowfall year around, mostly in the winter, and can even experience blizzard conditions. There is more of a difference from the day-to-night temperatures in Hawaii than there is summer-to-winter. Given that, there can be more of a difference from lower elevations to higher elevations than either of those, depending on where you are visiting. It's important to research the areas you plan to visit and bring clothing suitable for those conditions. ===Best times to go=== Hawaii's tropical weather tends to be most attractive to tourists when the weather is frightfully cold at home. It's not surprising, then, that the peak tourist season in Hawaii is the Northern Hemisphere winter (mid-December to mid-April). The highest prices tend to be during the Christmas and New Year's season, with a second peak around spring break in March and April. Hawaii's weather is at its best (not too hot and not too cold, with not so much rain) in April, May, September, and October — as it happens, this is also the period when some of the best deals can be had. ===Holidays=== Hawaii observes all the [[United States of America#Holidays|federal holidays]], except Columbus Day. It adds Prince Kuhio Day on March 26th, Good Friday (two days before Western Easter), King Kamehameha Day on June 11, Statehood Day on the 3rd Friday in August, and Election Day (in even-numbered years only, always on a Tuesday, from November 2nd to 8th). Also, some cities and towns that have a large population of federal workers or military personnel might observe Columbus Day anyway. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.gohawaii.com/ Go Hawaii] website ==Talk== {{see also|Hawaiian phrasebook}} '''[[Hawaiian phrasebook|Hawaiian]]''' and '''English''' are the official languages of Hawaii, albeit with English being the predominant language. However, if you encounter someone fluent in Hawaiian or learning the language and speak a few words of Hawaiian you'll instantly find yourself much more appreciated than the average tourist. [[Japanese phrasebook|Japanese]] is common in the tourism industry due to the large number of Japanese tourists who visit, as well as the large Japanese-American community in the state. There are also many communities that speak [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]], Cantonese, Tagalog, Ilocano, Vietnamese, Korean and Samoan. '''Hawaiian Pidgin English''', usually just called '''Pidgin''', is a creole that many locals grew up speaking which incorporates bits of Hawaiian, Chinese, Japanese, Tagalog, Portuguese and many other languages, in addition to its own unique idioms. It has a unique sound and feel. You will most likely hear Pidgin spoken on the street by Islanders in informal situations; it is Hawaii's language of everyday life. There are some subtle differences in English usage in Hawaii. Learning a few words of Hawaiian can be fun and useful. Some signs in Hawaii use Hawaiian words, and most street signs use Hawaiian names. Some useful words include: :; Hello : Aloha. (''ah-LOH-hah'') :; Goodbye : Aloha. (''ah-LOH-hah'') :; love : aloha (''ah-LOH-hah'') (So you indirectly refer to "love" when you first see someone and when they have to go.) :; Thank you. : Mahalo. (''mah-HAH-loh'') (Although this word is found on fast food trash receptacles around the islands, it does ''not'' mean "trash".) :; finished, done : pau (''pow'') :; help/respect : kokua (''koh-KOO-ah'') :; woman : wahine (''vah-HEE-neh'') :; man : kāne (''KAH-neh'') :; child : keiki (''KAY-kee'') :; local resident : kamaʻaina (''kah-mah-EYE-nah'') :; toward the mountains : mauka (''MOW-kah, MOW rhymes with pow'') :; toward the ocean : makai (''mah-KIGH'') :; appetizer : pupu ("POO-poo") :; delicious : ono ("oh-no") ===Shaka=== [[File:Gesture raised fist with thumb and pinky lifted.jpg|thumb|The shaka sign]] The '''shaka''' sign is a [[Gestures|hand gesture]] often used in Hawaii and adopted by surfers. To make a shaka, make a fist with your hand, and extend the thumb and smallest finger. Many people emphasize it by rotating their hand back and forth (along the arm, as if turning a doorknob). There's not an exact meaning to the shaka, but it generally conveys "aloha spirit". Drivers frequently sign the shaka to say "thank you" to another driver. ==Get in== [[File:Hawaje-NoRedLine.jpg|thumb|300px|A satellite view of the Hawaiian Islands and part of the vast expanse of the Pacific]] Foreign travelers entering Hawaii directly from another country are subject to the same entry requirements as for the United States in general. See the ''[[United States#Get in|Get in]]'' section of the [[United States]] article. As Hawaii is one of the 50 United States, flights between Hawaii and other states are considered domestic flights. Therefore, you never need to show a passport or other documentation when arriving in Hawaii from the U.S. Mainland. When leaving Hawaii on a domestic flight, you only need to show [http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/acceptable-ids approved picture ID], which for foreign visitors would typically be a passport. Hawaii has requirements to control the flow of plants and animals. The islands have unique plant and animal life found nowhere else. They also have diseases and pests not found on the U.S. Mainland, and are free of other diseases and pests that are commonly found elsewhere. Because of this, '''Hawaii is an agricultural quarantine zone'''. For travelers, this means three things: # You are required by the Hawaii State Department of Agriculture to fill out a written agricultural declaration while aboard your flight to Hawaii. One declaration form is required per family; the forms will be collected before landing. Any '''fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and the like''' must be declared and inspected by Department of Agriculture personnel at your port of arrival; some items may be prohibited from entering Hawaii. Penalties for non-compliance are stiff. To avoid delays and hassles, '''avoid bringing such items with you.''' (On the reverse side of this declaration is a Hawaii Tourism Authority questionnaire that asks for information about your stay. You are encouraged but not required to complete this questionnaire.) # When leaving Hawaii for the U.S. Mainland, '''all baggage (checked and carry-on) must be inspected''' by U.S. Department of Agriculture inspectors at the airport. With the exception of pineapples and treated papayas (pawpaw), any fresh fruits (grown in Hawaii or elsewhere) are prohibited from leaving Hawaii to control the spread of fruit flies. Consult the [https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/resources/traveler/hawaii/hawaiian_products U.S. Department of Agriculture] for more details. Depending on the airport you leave from and the airline, be prepared to submit to as many as ''three'' X-ray checkpoints on the way to your Mainland flight: having your checked bags X-rayed in the ticket lobby, the TSA security checkpoint, and perhaps a separate agricultural inspection for your carry-on bags on the way to your gate. That last checkpoint will probably have a sign that says, "Yes, you have to do this again...." # As Hawaii is rabies-free, '''pets''' such as dogs and cats are subject to [http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/ai/aqs/animal-quarantine-information-page/ complex and strict quarantine requirements]. The least restrictive provisions (direct airport release or 5-day maximum quarantine) require at least two rabies vaccinations at least thirty days apart and at least 90 days before arrival, the latest of which must be current; microchip implantation; and a negative rabies blood test within the last three years, but at least 120 days before arrival. Pets failing to meet these requirements will be subject to quarantine for up to 120 days. '''Hawaii does not observe Daylight Saving Time,''' which means that the time difference between Hawaii and most of North America varies by the time of year. Hawaii is two time zones behind the U.S. West Coast, thereby accounting for a ''three''-hour time difference during DST for most states. Travelers from Asia, Australia, and New Zealand should keep the International Date Line in mind when doing time conversions and flight reservations. Hawaii is 19 hours behind Japan, making it five hours ahead of Japan by the clock, but a day behind on the calendar. Most flights to Hawaii that leave Asia in the evening will arrive in the morning of the ''same'' day, and return flights that leave Hawaii in the morning will arrive in the early afternoon of the ''next'' day. ===By plane=== [[File:HonoluluAirportWelcomeSign.jpg|thumb|300px|Hawaii welcomes you!]] {{see also|Flying in the United States}} Most flights from the mainland U.S. and almost all international flights land in [[Honolulu]] on the island of [[Oahu]]. From here, passengers destined for a neighbor island will connect to an interisland flight (see By Plane in Get Around below). Nonstop service from the mainland is also available to [[Kahului]] on [[Maui]], [[Kona]] and [[Hilo]] on the [[Big Island]], and [[Lihue]] on [[Kauai]]. Kona also serves a limited number of non-stop flights from Japan, and seasonal service from Canada. Depending on the airline, nonstop flights to Honolulu leave from most major gateway airports on the West Coast (as well as some smaller ones), as well as many major airports in the Midwest and East Coast. The flight from [[Los Angeles]] or [[San Francisco]] takes about 5 hours, which is comparable to a flight between the West and East Coasts of the contiguous United States. Thus, a flight from [[New York City|New York]] will take about 10½ hours. [http://jetstar.com Jetstar] is a budget Australian airline that connects [[Honolulu]] to several cities in [[Australia]]. From Southeast Asia, there are also low-cost airlines from [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Singapore]] and [[Manila]] with [https://www.airasia.com/en/home.page?cid=1 AirAsia X]. ===By boat=== There are a few trans-Pacific cruises to Hawaii that leave from ports on the West Coast. On an 18-day, {{convert|5000|mi|km|adj=on}} round-trip cruise between Hawaii and the West Coast, about 12 of those days will be at sea, with nothing on the horizon and nothing to do except what is on the ship. Even if you are an avid cruiser, you may get more Hawaii bang from your cruise buck by flying to Honolulu and taking a seven-day interisland cruise that starts and leaves from there. Pacific Ocean cruises to and from California depart for the most part from mid-fall to mid-spring. (See [[#Get around|Get around: By boat]] for more info on the regular cruises from the Mainland.) There are a few [http://www.freightercruises.com freighter services], but if you are an American citizen embarking in the United States and wishing to travel to Hawaii then you cannot travel this way on a foreign-flagged ship due to the U.S. Passenger Vessel Services Act of 1886. Instead, try cruises from Ensenada, [[Baja California]] or Vancouver, [[British Columbia]]. It is also worthwhile to troll marinas on the West Coast of the contiguous United States, leaving your contact info and posting to online discussion boards for people planning to spend around a month sailing from the mainland. Ensure that any expectation of compensation including work duties, food, supplies, and damaged equipment is covered in writing so everything is clear. Storms and days stuck becalmed are to be expected. ==Get around== ===By plane=== Air travel is, by and large, compulsory for traveling within the state. Travelers can choose from either a scheduled or unscheduled air carrier. Three scheduled inter-island air carriers, '''[https://www.hawaiianairlines.com/ Hawaiian Airlines]''', '''[http://www.mokuleleairlines.com Mokulele Airlines]''', and '''[https://www.southwest.com Southwest Airlines]''', provide set scheduled flights between the islands. You can save money and time by planning "triangle routes" that arrive in Hawaii on one island and leave on another, avoiding the cost of a return inter-island flight. Scheduled flight times run anywhere from 20 minutes to one hour, and can usually be purchased a day or two before departure, although this may increase the cost of traveling. Visitors wanting to fly according to their own demand (as opposed to scheduled times) should consider flying on an unscheduled air carrier also known as '''air taxi''' service. Contact the air carrier directly and arrange a time and place for pick up. '''[http://www.iolaniair.com Iolani Air]{{Dead link|date=November 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' and '''[http://www.bigislandair.com Big Island Air]''' are two such air carriers. The Hawaiian islands are populated with airstrips that scheduled carriers do not service. In these instances air taxi companies may be the only means of traveling. Hunters and campers with cumbersome gear planning trips to remote island regions, as well as visitors wishing to "island hop", should consider air taxi service. ===By boat=== In general, ferry services between the islands are few and far between, and many are not a practical means of transportation. Charter boats sail and motor between some islands, especially the [[Maui]]-[[Molokai]]-[[Lanai]] area. Crossing the channels between islands can be extremely rough going. A few charter companies specialize in having boats delivered interisland and can meet you at your destination. A company offering ferries is [http://go-lanai.com Expeditions] (Maui–Lana'i $30 one way for adults and $20 for children). '''[https://www.ncl.com Norwegian Cruise Lines]''' operates a [[cruise ships|cruise ship]], ''Pride of America'', between the islands, embarking and disembarking in [[Honolulu]]. Inquire at nearby marinas about joining the crew of a local sailboat or yacht out for a cruise. ===By bus=== On Oahu there is an excellent public transportation system on '''[http://www.thebus.org TheBus]''' for bus travel between Honolulu, Waikiki, Kaneohe, and the surrounding suburban and rural areas of Oahu. You can buy a booklet called "TheBus" at a local [http://www.abcstores.com/ ABC Store] giving route information on how to get around the island or online on [http://www.thebus.org TheBus.org] or download "DaBus2" app on a mobile device. Public transportation is limited on the neighboring islands, so renting a car makes sense. There are some bus services available within and between populated areas on the other islands. They are: *'''[http://www.heleonbus.hawaiicounty.gov Hele-On]{{Dead link|date=April 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (Hilo, Kona, Waimea and around the big island of Hawai'i) *'''[http://www.kauai.gov/Transportation Kaua'i Bus]''' (Kauai) *'''[http://www.mauicounty.gov/index.aspx?NID=605 Maui Bus]''' (Kahului, Wailuku, Lahaina, and other places in western Maui. No service to the Haleakala NP in the eastern part of the island). No regular bus services on Molokai or Lanai. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/hawaii/ here]. ===By car=== {{seealso|Driving in the United States}} {{infobox|Interstates? In ''Hawaii''?|[[File:I-H1.svg|125px|right]] Visitors to Oahu will notice something vaguely familiar about Honolulu's freeways: they are marked with the same familiar red, white, and blue Interstate highway signs as on the Mainland, except with an H as part of the number. Many a visitor has wondered why Hawaii has interstate highways when you can't even drive between islands, let alone between Hawaii and the rest of the United States. The answer lies in the full name of the Interstate highway system: The National System of Interstate and '''Defense''' Highways. Oahu has military bases from four major branches of the military, including Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, and Schofield Barracks, and the routes of the Hawaii interstates pass by or terminate at one or more of these bases. In short, they're as much designed for transporting troops as commuters. Even on the mainland, it's not unheard of for a non-auxiliary Interstate not to cross state lines; several Interstate highways also run entirely within a single state. Alaska and Puerto Rico also have highways funded as Interstates, although they're not signed as such.}} If you want to take your car to Hawaii, it will either need to be amphibious or freighted by ship with very high cost, making this infeasible unless you plan a long-term stay in Hawaii. However, Hawaii is the only state that honors all other U.S. state vehicle licenses until they expire, provided you apply for a permit within 10 days of the car's arrival. (Incidentally, Hawaii is also the only state that does not require intended residents to exchange their out-of-state driver's licenses.) Car rentals should be booked as soon as possible since, as elsewhere in the US, the price charged is based on a supply/demand basis. The exception is Waikiki where you will not need a car on a permanent basis so just rent a car the day before you want one. Some hotels may charge you for car parking; check with your hotel for parking fees before you book your car. Gasoline, while nowhere near the prices charged in Europe, is more expensive in Hawaii than in many areas of the Mainland. There was a time when gas prices in Hawaii were much more expensive than other states. Nowadays, however, average prices are comparable to San Francisco and Los Angeles, and are sometimes below those cities. Expect to pay about 20-25% more than the average price on the Mainland for gasoline in Honolulu. Neighbor Island prices can be as much as 10-15% above that. The major highways are referred to by number (H-1, H-2, and H-3; they're never called "I-H-1" etc.), but most locals refer to other roads not by number but by name, and will likely not understand if you ask for a road by number. For example, you would never hear someone refer to Kalanianaole Highway as "route 72" or "highway 72." If you ask for directions, they will likely not be given in terms of compass direction. Instead you will probably receive relative directions based on landmarks. Common landmarks include '''''mauka''''' (toward the mountains), '''''makai''''' (toward the ocean), and on Oahu, '''''ʻEwa''''' (toward Ewa Beach, roughly west) and '''Diamond Head''' (toward Diamond Head, roughly east). So a query for a grocery store might be met with "go two blocks ''makai'', turn right on King and it's half a mile up on the ''mauka'' side of the street." ===By moped, scooter or motorcycle=== Scooters are also an excellent alternative for getting around the islands. Rental rates are fairly cheap: about $50/day, or $135 for three days, which you can sometimes haggle down. The scooters are also fun to ride and are cheap on gas (typical mileage is 60&ndash;100&nbsp;mpg, or 2.3&ndash;3.9&nbsp;L/100&nbsp;km). You can ride them anywhere except on limited-access highways (of which there aren't many in Hawaii, and there's always a surface street that's probably more scenic). Scooters only require a valid license for driving a car, not a motorcycle license. The driver must be over 15 (legally out-of-state license aren't acceptable unless the driver is 18, but this is rarely enforced). It's illegal for two or more persons to ride a moped, although this may not be enforced in more remote areas such as [[Big Island]]. Helmets are not mandatory, but if you want one (which is always a good idea) you should be able to rent one with your scooter, possibly for free. When you get your scooter, inspect it first, as some are in bad repair: make sure the headlights and turn signals are working, and insist on taking it for a quick spin around the block to check that the acceleration, transmission, brakes, and steering are okay. If anything is amiss, insist on a replacement scooter, or walk away from the deal and find another rental company. Scooters that can go over 30&nbsp;mph or have an engine larger than 49&nbsp;cc are classified the same as motorcycles, so you need a [http://www.city-data.com/forum/hawaii/947879-question-mopeds-scooters-vespas-etc.html#post13729771 motorcycle license]. Motorcycle rentals are easy to find. On most islands, you can also rent out Harley-Davidson motorcycles. ===By bicycle=== Depending on where you travel a bicycle can be a great form of transportation if you keep a few things in mind. Some roads are very narrow and winding which may create a hazard when sharing the road with cars. There are also some steep hills as Hawaii is a series of mountains erupting from the sea; without a topo map an apparent shortcut may require a challenging hill while a long loop may be flat and avoid large terrain getting you there quicker. If you stay near the beach there is the salty sea air and rain which will eventually rust a bicycle which is kept outside, keep on top of chain and part maintenance and cleaning to prevent damage. Honolulu has a [https://www.honolulu.gov/bicycle/bicycleeducation/bicycle-registration.html bicycle registration law]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} requiring a tag for $15, and bicycles without registration can be impounded by police. The law and common sense require a white front and red rear light when operating a bicycle during twilight and night. Many airlines charge an oversized luggage fee for most full size bikes even when boxed; some tour-capable folding bikes can be fit inside a standard suitcase, but most public transportation does not allow bicycles at all. == See == == Do == <!-- do not list individual businesses here - those should go in city articles. instead provide an overview of Hawaiian activities with pointers to the island(s) on which they most commonly occur --> The Hawaiian islands offer a vast number of activities. Hiking and eco tours are popular on most islands, with opportunities for horseback riding, ATV, air tours, and other methods of exploring the landscape. Museums and historical sites such as Pearl Harbor are also to be found throughout the islands. Cultural activities such as the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu also make for interesting day-long activities. Oahu is famous for Pearl Harbor tours, but also popular are '''shark dives''' in cages, Waikiki snorkel tours as well as around Oahu Tours where you will see all the major highlights of Oahu including Diamond Head, the North Shore and '''Dole Plantation''' where you can sample menu items made from fresh picked pineapples. Maui is the location for '''humpback [[whale watching]]''' from December 15 to April 15 each year as the massive humpbacks migrate to Hawaii's warm waters to bear their calves. Also famous from Maui is the '''Molokini Crater''' which is a partially submerged volcano crater that you can snorkel at. Kauai is untamed and beautiful. It has been featured in many major motion pictures over the past two decades (''Hook'', ''Jurassic Park'', ''Tropic Thunder'', ''The Descendants'', ''Avatar'', and many more). See this island by land or by air to take in the true beauty of this island. Oh and just be ready to see the roaming Roosters that inhabit the island. You can take a land tour or fly over the incredible '''huge volcano''' on a helicopter tour of the Big Island. Doors-off flights allow you to feel the heat from the volcano, an amazingly unique experience. Also on the Big Island you have the rare opportunity to '''swim with wild dolphins''', not captive ones. Hawaii is best known for its '''beaches and water activities'''. '''Surfing''' is practically a religion in Hawaii, and '''scuba diving''' and '''snorkeling''' opportunities exist nearly everywhere. In addition, jet skiing, parasailing and kayaking are available in tourist areas. Since many of the islands' tours and excursions are interacting with nature in some way, it's important to look into each and make sure they are respecting the islands. There are many endangered animals and plants, and because of this there are many laws protecting them. An example would be tour boats that have been fined for chasing dolphins or whales in order to please the tourists, which is illegal and highly disrespectful. Govern yourself the same way while you visit and remember to "kokua na `aina," or respect the land. ==Buy== As in the rest of the United States, U.S. dollars are the local currency. There are plenty of banks, ATMs, and money change offices in all cities. However, none of the major American and foreign banks have branches in Hawaii, so the banking sector is served exclusively by local banks, the largest of which are Bank of Hawaii, First Hawaiian Bank, and American Savings Bank. ATMs are scarcer on the North Shore of Oahu and other rural areas. Because Hawaii is an island state and transporting goods to Hawaii is more difficult, the prices for most goods are more expensive. Under federal law, most goods manufactured overseas in Asia must bypass Hawaii and go directly to the West Coast of the United States. They are brought to Hawaii on another ship, and the prices must include that cost of that second ship. Hawaii has a 4.166% General Excise Tax (GET), which many retailers pass through like a sales tax on their receipts. The City and County of Honolulu adds an additional amount, making the tax rate on Oahu 4.712%. The GET is not a sales tax because it is imposed on all business receipts in Hawaii. It is another reason why retail prices in Hawaii are so high, because they must include the GET paid by a Hawaii-based manufacturer, wholesaler, or distributor and passed through to the retailer. ===Clothing=== Other than the stereotypical grass skirt (which is not generally worn in Hawaii except by hula dancers), no pieces of clothing are more associated with the Islands than the aloha shirt and the ''muʻumuʻu''. The ever-present '''aloha shirt''' comes in a wide variety of designs. On one end, there are the brightly colored, tourist-oriented, polyester aloha shirts that many tourist-oriented stores throughout the Islands carry. On the other end of the spectrum are '''reverse print''' aloha shirts, which have become standard business attire among businessmen in Hawaii, in the same way that the business suit is on the mainland. These aloha shirts are usually cotton-polyester blend with the design printed on the ''inside'' of the shirt, resulting in muted colors that are considered businesslike in Hawaii. This kind of aloha shirt can be found in department stores. For women, the '''''muʻumuʻu''''' (English: "muumuu") is a long Hawaiian dress, usually made of cotton, that hangs loosely from the shoulder. A special note on shoes: the lightweight sandal commonly referred to on the Mainland as a "flip-flop" or "thong" is known as a '''"slipper"''' or '''"slippa"''' in Hawaii. Using the mainland term will get you a quizzical look from locals. Call them by their island name and they will instantly know what you are talking about. ===Made in Hawaii=== Locally made bath & body products are popular souvenirs. The islands feature some of the most refreshing fragrances, which are featured in Hawaiian shampoos, body lotions, soaps, oils, incense and floating candles. ==Eat== Contemporary food in Hawaii, like the language and popular culture, is a medley of traditional Hawaiian, Portuguese, American, and Asia-Pacific flavors. Pacific "fusion" cuisine was largely invented in Hawaii. Well-known local chefs include Sam Choy, Alan Wong, Russell Siu, Roy Yamaguchi, and George "Chef Mavro" Mavrothalassitis. Seafood is, of course, fresh and tasty. Local beef comes from ranches on [[Maui]] and coffee is grown on the [[Big Island]] and [[Kauai]]. Tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango, bananas, guavas, and papaya, as well as fresh sugar cane, can be bought in most corner stores (although you may be surprised to learn that many of those fruits are now imported from distant locales such as the [[Philippines]] and [[Brazil]]). One of the most common ways that local food is served is in the form of '''plate lunch''', usually meat or fish with two scoops of rice and macaroni salad. It's always a good deal at any lunch wagon, mall, or outside food court. [http://www.hawaiianbarbecue.com L&L Drive Inn] and [http://www.zippys.com/ Zippy's]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} are probably the most widely distributed chain of plate lunch spots in the Hawaiian islands. Branches of L&L are in some locations on the Mainland as well (as L&L Hawaiian Barbecue). Another way of enjoying local food when roaming around the island is to keep an eye out for the converted trucks or vans that are parked in their regular spots in gas station parking lots, some parks and a variety of places on the island. These '''lunch wagons''' offer plate lunches, are popular with the locals and provide great meals (on plastic plates) at very reasonable prices. There is no reason to fear them; they are very common and popular. '''Food carts''' provide other kinds of cuisine besides the standard plate lunch. You may be surprised to find that even the McDonald's menu is different. '''Saimin''', a Hawaiian noodle soup inspired by Chinese noodle soups, is a permanent menu item, and was the first regional food to be served in a McDonald's. Another favorite is the breakfast platter at Hawaiian McD's, which features Portuguese sausage, Spam, eggs, and steamed rice, sometimes with fresh pineapple. (Contrary to its poor reputation on the mainland, '''Spam''' has traditionally been very popular in Hawaii and is even used in various adapted ethnic dishes.) Also, red '''fruit punch''' is a non-carbonated fruit-flavored alternative to Coke or Sprite at the soda fountain. Perhaps the best setting for tourists to enjoy traditional Hawaiian food is at a '''luau''' (''lū‘au''), a traditional Hawaiian feast. Tourists can find luaus at various locations in the Islands, including many of the major resort hotels. At a modern luau, traditional Hawaiian favorites are served as a ''pūpū'' (buffet of appetizers and small main dishes, similar in size to Spanish ''tapas'', which gave its name to the American Chinese "pupu platter"), along with Hawaiian music, hula, and other Polynesian entertainment. The downside is that prices vary in the expensive range; expect to pay between $50 and $90 per adult and about half that per child. Dishes that are often found at luaus include: * '''''Lomi'' salmon''', salted salmon hand-mixed (''lomi-lomi'' means "to massage") with tomatoes, onions, and pepper; like an island salsa * '''''Kālua'' pig''', pork wrapped in banana leaves and steamed inside an ''imu'' (ground boiler); similar to pulled pork * '''''Pipi kāula''''', Hawaiian style beef jerky * '''''Poi''''', ground and boiled taro root paste * '''''Laulau''''', pork and butterfish (black cod) wrapped in ti plant leaves then steamed * '''''Lū‘au''''', taro leaves baked with coconut cream and usually octopus (this dish inspired the modern name of the Hawaiian feast) * '''''Haupia''''', a gelatin-like dessert prepared from thickened coconut milk; famous for being a very mild laxative Other local dishes include favorites such as the following: [[File:SPAM musubi.jpg|thumb|250px|The ubiquitous spam musubi]] * '''''Poke''''', chopped and seasoned raw fish (like a tartare), eaten by itself or over sushi rice. * '''''ʻAhi''''', yellowfin tuna, excellent as ''sashimi'' (Japanese style sliced raw fish) or as ''poke''. * '''''Mahimahi''''', dolphin fish, served as a steak, sandwich, or in almost-raw thin strips. * '''''Ono''''', a type of fish also known as wahoo. Not coincidentally, the name resembles the Hawaiian word for "delicious," ''ʻono''. * '''Shave ice''', an island version of snow cones made from finely shaved ice, comes in lots of ''ʻono'' flavors. Order your shave ice with azuki beans and/or a scoop of ice cream. * '''Saimin''', Hawaii's version of a Chinese noodle soup. * '''Malasada''', fried bread rolled in plenty of sugar, a sort of Portuguese donut. Often sold at special events. * '''Manapua''', local name for a popular type of Chinese dim sum otherwise known as ''char siu bao''. Cured sweet pork wrapped in soft white bread. * '''Spam musubi''', an unorthodox variant of Japanese riceballs (''musubi''), composed of salted rice formed into a rectangular shape and topped with spam, wrapped in seaweed. Popular enough to be sold in every Hawaiian 7-Eleven. * '''Chicken/pork adobo''', Filipino dish widely offered and appreciated in Hawaii, where the meat is marinated and then cooked in vinegar and soy sauce. * '''Loco moco''', a local specialty consisting of a hamburger patty on rice, topped with over easy egg and gravy. Excellent with tabasco sauce. Can be eaten for breakfast or lunch. * '''Chicken katsu''', fried chicken cutlet with savory sauce. Usually served with rice and mac salad. If you are roaming the island away from tourist areas, you may find restaurants are scarce. Many of the numerous golf courses have dining rooms open to the public that offer great meals. They seem to welcome the non-golfer. For specific places at which to eat, see the individual island or city articles. Be sure to check the coupon books that are available at display stands for meal specials. Popular local snacks are also heavily influenced by the large mix of cultures present in Hawaii, primarily the Chinese and Japanese. Since many of these snacks are unique to Hawaii and cannot be found anywhere else, consider purchasing a few bags from any grocery store to bring on your travels. A large portion of local snacks fall under the category known as "Crack Seed" which refers to a variety of pickled, candied, and dehydrated fruit snacks of Chinese origin. The most popular iterations of Crack Seed snacks are: *'''Li hing mui''' - Salted dried plums that are especially popular with the younger locals. Li Hing Mui is known for its unique sweet, salty, and sour flavor. It is commercially sold either with the plum seed intact or seedless and also in a powdered form that can be sprinkled onto arare, fruits, gummy bears, and many other snacks. *'''Pickled or dried fruits''' - Mangoes are usually dehydrated for a sweet snack or kept wet and flavored with Li Hing Mui powder. Lemon and orange peels are also salted and dried for a salty/sour snack. Other popular local snacks include: *'''Arare''' - Japanese rice crackers flavored with soy sauce that come in many different shapes and sizes. Arare is commonly paired with dried seaweed, li hing mui powder, or popcorn. Also commonly referred to as "Kaki Mochi" or "Mochi Crunch". *'''Dried Seafood''' - Dried cuttlefish and octopus strips, known by their Japanese names "Ika" and "Tako", are very popular snacks. Tuna, or "Ahi", is also dried and made into Ahi Jerky. *'''Macadamia nuts''' - Originally brought over from [[Australia]], where they are a part of Aboriginal cuisine, but first grown commercially in Hawaii. Dry roasted macadamia nuts are commercially sold plain, with flavoring, or in chocolate. Macadamia nuts in snack form are more popular with tourists than with locals and are usually given as gifts. If you would rather catch your own, fishing in the ocean or gathering in tidepools is free and requires no permit. Fresh-water fishing, however, does require a license. ==Drink== '''Beer''': there are a number of excellent local brewpubs in Hawaii. Mehana, Sam Choy's, Honu, Waimea Brewing Company, Liz's Pub, Keoki's and Kona Brewing Company all brew beer in Hawaii or brew it on the mainland and ship it to the islands. The largest of the group is Kona Brewing, which has won several national awards and runs two brew pub restaurants in the islands (one in Kailua Kona, the other in Hawaii Kai on Oahu). '''Cocktails''': The '''mai tai''' is said to have been invented in California, but it's long since been adopted by Hawaii and is well worth trying there. ==Sleep== '''Resorts:''' There are many resorts in Hawaii. Waikiki is famous for its beach and nightlife but is an urban neighborhood, so not necessarily what you might think of as a resort. There are other resorts on the Kona Coast of the Big Island, such as in Waikoloa Village, in Maui, or at Turtle Bay on the northern tip of the Big Island, where there is a resort that is widely known for its sunsets. '''AirBnB:''' It is illegal to list or use AirBnBs outside of tourist districts due to laws on minimum rental periods. Both the person staying and the person listing their unit can be fined up to $10,000 per day they violate this law. ==Learn== Tourists who want to get a taste of Hawaiian culture can sign up for classes in hula, surfing and lei-making at most tourist destinations. There are also a number of cultural and historical centers on [[Oahu]] well worth your time, such as the '''Bishop Museum''' and '''Iolani Palace'''. If you have the money, the time and the inclination, the '''Polynesian Cultural Center''' provides a window into Polynesian culture. As its name implies, the Polynesian Cultural Center covers not just Hawaii but also the cultures of Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Easter Island and the Maori people of New Zealand. The outer islands also have destinations such as Maui Center for Culture and the Arts and the Big Island has the Hilo Art Museum. the Lyman House Museum and the Pacific Tsunami Museum as well as the University of Hawaii's ʻImiloa Astronomy Center and Kula Kai Caverns. For those on a budget, there are many activities you can do on any island that are free. All state parks are free to visit and even some National Parks. When the National Parks are not free, most find them very affordable. Hiking, beaches, snorkeling and other like activities are always free when on public land and there are no private beaches. On the Big Island there are many free ranger programs at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical park and other locations. At the Visitor Information Station on Mauna Kea, you can stay any night of the year between 6PM and 10PM and enjoy a free astronomy tour including large and small telescopes for you to look through. Some hiking and other activities are in National Parks, like Volcanoes so they are at cost, of course. ==Work== The unemployment rate in Hawaii is generally below the average unemployment rate for the country as a whole in Mar 2019, 2.8% vs 3.8%). Hawaii is not an easy place to legally find casual work for non-US work permit holders. To apply for a local government job, by law you must be a Hawaii resident. ==Stay safe== Theft is a big problem in cities as well as beaches and parks. If you are camping on a beach, keep bags locked in a car (but don't assume that they are safe in the trunk, especially if you are driving a rental) and keep valuables in a hidden money belt. Although Hawaii is generally considered relatively safe, it does have some violent crime. Consequently, women should not walk alone in unlit areas. Although Honolulu has one of the lowest violent crime rates of metro areas in the U.S., use your common sense. Stay smart and act as if you were in your own home city: lock doors, lock cars, and don't leave valuables lying around. Some campgrounds now require a permit (this has the effect of moving homeless people away from tourist areas). Be sure to apply for a reserved area and have your permit even in free camping areas especially around Honolulu. Any of the beaches are vulnerable to pickpockets and thieves who break into cars. If you are using a rental car, it is advised you buy a bumper sticker or two to make it seem like you are a local. Paradoxically, keeping the car windows open will prevent break-ins and car damage, as the locals will think there is nothing of worth in the car. As a rule of thumb, do not bring anything to the beach you do not plan on using. If you must bring money, bring a friend to keep it safe. If you are planning a hike in the mountains, monitor local weather reports carefully and use extreme caution in case of rain. Rain is more likely in the mountains, and flash flooding can occur near stream beds with little or no warning. Unsuspecting hikers can drown and be swept downstream. ===Civil defense sirens=== [[File:Pāhoehoe and Aa flows at Hawaii.jpg|thumb|Pāhoehoe lava and ʻaʻā flows on the Big Island, as seen from a helicopter]] Although it is rather rare, the threat of a natural disaster can occur at any time in Hawaii, sometimes with little or no warning. Besides the occasional destructive lava flow on the Big Island and occasionally destructive hurricanes (see Weather in Understand above), Hawaii can also experience [[earthquakes|tsunamis and earthquakes]]. In 1960 the Great Chilean Earthquake (magnitude 9.5) generated a destructive tsunami that devastated Hilo on the Big Island, killing 61 people. In 1992, Hurricane Iniki made a direct hit on Kauai, killing six and causing $1.8 billion in damage. In 2006, most of the state was affected by a magnitude 6.7 quake off Kailua-Kona. No casualties were reported, but it caused extensive property damage and power outages of up to 14 hours on Oahu. Hawaii has a highly developed civil defense system. High-pitched civil defense sirens are tested statewide at 11:45AM on the first working day of each month unless hazardous weather is occurring. Two tones may be tested: a steady alert siren used in the event of imminent natural disaster such as a tsunami, and a wailing tone that oscillates in pitch from high to low, to be used in the event of confirmed, imminent enemy attack. If you hear the '''steady''' tone siren go off at any other time, turn on the nearest radio or television set for emergency information. In the unlikely event you hear the '''wailing''' tone go off at any time, '''seek shelter immediately''' and stay there, and stay tuned to radio or TV for further instructions. ===Natural disasters=== If a [[Cyclones|hurricane or tropical storm]] is expected, you will usually have at least several days' notice, and local media will pass on advisories, watches, and warnings from the National Weather Service. Your hotel will likely have emergency plans; check with them for advice and stay indoors during the high winds and rain that accompany a tropical cyclone. If a [[tsunami]] is expected, you will only have several hours' notice. Either evacuate coastal areas subject to inundation (this includes most of Waikiki), or failing that, find the nearest concrete high-rise hotel and go to the third story or above. '''Follow the instructions of police and first responders at all times. If ordered to evacuate an area, do so quickly.''' ==Stay healthy== '''Hospitals''' in Hawaii meet U.S. standards for care, and can be found in the urban areas of each island. The hospitals in Honolulu are larger and have the most advanced equipment; the hospitals on the neighbor islands provide general care. There is a shortage of specialists on the Neighbor Islands. Depending on where you are and how serious your condition is, you may have to be medically evacuated to Honolulu for treatment. All tourists, including U.S. citizens, should have [[travel insurance]] with medi-evac coverage, which can get you back home, if needed. The main tourist areas of each island have walk-in '''urgent care clinics''' where you can receive non-emergency treatment for whatever ails you. Some clinics even make hotel room calls. Check with the local phone book or your hotel. In Waikiki, try '''Doctors on Call''' (+1 808-971-6000). The clinic is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. '''Pharmacies''' can also be found in most major shopping areas. Mainland customers of CVS who need assistance with prescriptions should look for the nearest branch of '''Longs Drugs''' (the former pharmacy chain had such high brand recognition in Hawaii that CVS chose to retain the brand on its Hawaii locations). '''Walgreens''' has opened numerous locations. If you go hiking in the backcountry or go swimming in freshwater pools in Hawaii, you risk catching '''leptospirosis.''' Leptospirosis generally causes flu-like symptoms; in rare cases it can be fatal; the incubation period can be from 2-30 days after exposure. Do not swim in freshwater pools if you have open sores; see a doctor if you develop flu-like symptoms after hiking or swimming. If you do not have open sores and swim in these areas, the best way to avoid Leptospirosis or any bacteria is to never drink any natural water, no matter how clean it looks. If you are backpacking and this is a must, remember to bring the needed water filters and/or iodine pills to treat your water. Be sure to have travel '''health insurance'''. If you are a U.S. resident with private health insurance, you should consult your insurance carrier to determine what co-payments apply and to what extent your insurance is accepted in Hawaii by doctors and hospitals in the event you need health care while on your trip. However, if you get a job in Hawaii - even a part-time job - you will receive health insurance by state law (presuming that you are a U.S. citizen or have a green card and are therefore legally eligible to work). See ''Stay healthy'' in [[United States of America]] for more information. If you have respiratory problems, be aware of '''volcanic smog (also known as vog)'''. Vog is formed when sulfur dioxide gas from Kilauea mixes with sunlight, water, and dust particles to form a haze made up primarily of sulfur compounds. Normally the northeasterly trade winds blow vog away from the rest of the islands. Southeasterly winds (also known as Kona winds in Hawaii), however, can blow vog toward the other islands. Vog can be a nearly constant presence on the Big Island. While many people in Hawaii can experience symptoms related to vog, it can especially affect those with asthma or other chronic respiratory illness. If you have a respiratory condition and plan to visit the Big Island, consult your doctor for advice. When going to the beach or swimming, always wear '''sunscreen lotion or sun guard''' to protect your skin from burns, as well as hats, covers and sunglasses. The islands are far closer to the equator than most tourists understand, so even if the weather is cooler, the sun's power is still more intense. ==Cope== ===Dress=== Hawaii's laid-back reputation extends to dress: with ideal weather year-round in most places, shorts are always appropriate around the islands. Long pants are fine, too, and you will still be quite comfortable. You ''do'' normally need to wear a shirt in public; going bare-chested is for the beach, although businesses near the beach are tolerant of it, particularly outside of the city. Sandals and flip-flops are always fine for casual wear, but they're always called ''slippers'' or ''slippa'' by locals. Going barefoot off the beach is not common in the cities, but again, businesses tolerate it to some extent. Hawaii has many of the Earth's climates on each small island. Research the locations you plan to visit and dress accordingly, as some areas like Volcanoes National Park or Mauna Kea on the Big Island, or Haleakala National Park on Maui will leave you miserable in shorts and tank tops, as they may have below freezing weather, drenching rain and even snow. For the beach or pool, boardshorts or swimming trunks for men are the most popular, though with so many visitors from Asia, speedos are welcome too. Female toplessness is legal in Hawaii, if uncommon. Swimming nude is illegal, although there are a few isolated beaches on each island where people risk it. Unless you're spending the day trekking from beach to beach, '''save beachwear for the beach''' and wear regular clothes. Businessmen in Hawaii forgo suits and wear slacks with muted aloha shirts. As a visitor, you would be overdressed in a suit; a dress shirt (with or without a tie) and slacks would be fine. If you do wear an aloha shirt for business, pair it with khaki pants or slacks, socks, and dress shoes or loafers, and button all but the top button while at the office. Normally aloha shirts are worn untucked and without an undershirt, but those aspects are up to you. The business aloha shirt extends also to dressing up for fine dining, entertainment, and even church; some preachers wear business aloha shirts for church services. As a visitor, just put on a collared shirt, shoes (such as casual loafers), and, depending on the restaurant you're going to, either shorts or slacks. Ties and jackets will never be necessary. ==Respect== In general, American standards of etiquette (see ''[[United States of America#Respect|Respect]]'' in [[United States of America]]) apply in Hawaii. Hawaii does however have certain cultural differences, owing to the Native Hawaiians and the large population of Asians and people of Asian descent. * As is the custom in many Asian countries, always '''remove your footwear''' when entering the home of an island resident, if so invited. Shoes and sandals are generally left on the front porch or just inside the front door. * '''Hawaiian culture''' should be respected and travelers should be sensitive to the state's rich cultural heritage and diversity — and the fact that the tourist experience of Hawaiian culture may only scratch the surface. For instance, there are many ''heiau'' (temples) in the Islands, where the ancient Hawaiian religion was practiced. Some of these have become tourist attractions in their own right, but visitors should nevertheless treat these places with the same level of respect one would show at a place of worship. To show respect, do not horseplay, rearrange or move any item, and never, ever take any item, including rocks and sand, with you. * If you visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you will no doubt hear about Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes. An urban legend has it that people who have taken '''volcanic rock''' from Hawai'i, not just the park, have suffered various misfortunes; it is believed that it is the wrath of Pele. In any case, it is illegal to take rocks or other material from a national park. It is also unethical and looked down upon to take any rocks, sand or other natural items from the islands, for religious, moral and environmental reasons alike. Take only pictures, leave only footprints. * '''Native Hawaiians do not identify as Native Americans''', as they are culturally and historically distinct from people indigenous to the continental United States. Just stick to the term "Native Hawaiian". * The '''status of Native Hawaiians''' vis-a-vis the U.S. federal government has become a hot topic, with some Native Hawaiian groups seeking a degree of sovereignty for the Hawaiian people as redress for the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy and U.S. annexation in the 1890s. (Honolulu is home to the only royal palace on U.S. soil.) There is no consensus among Native Hawaiians on what form this sovereignty should take, with some preferring the status quo of ordinary citizenship, some seeking a status similar to that of Native Americans, and some wanting complete independence and secession from the Union. In addition, private and government programs that benefit Native Hawaiians have been called into question via a series of lawsuits that have received extensive coverage in local media. Discussions of Hawaiian sovereignty and programs can arouse a variety of strong opinions (both in support and in opposition) among Hawaii residents of all ethnicities, and the uninitiated visitor would be wise to avoid bringing up these topics in casual conversation. With that in mind, there are some subtle differences in English word usage. When talking with Hawaii residents, be aware of the following differences in word usage to avoid miscommunications. * '''Always refer to the continental United States as "the Mainland" rather than "the States."''' Hawaii has been one of "the States" since 1959, and the Hawaiian sovereignty movement notwithstanding (see above), most Hawaii residents are proud to be part of the United States. This is especially true for Japanese-Americans, many of whose relatives served in the celebrated 100th/442nd unit in World War II. Using the term "the States" (implying that Hawaii is somehow foreign) may be seen as naive at best and condescending at worst. However, don't be surprised if some local people are condescending towards you because you are from the mainland. The "local" vs. "mainland" difference is something local people are only too happy to point out. * '''Residents of Hawaii do not necessarily consider themselves "Hawaiian."''' For instance, when asking a Hawaii resident, "Are you a native Hawaiian?" don't be surprised if his reply is "No, I'm Japanese." (Ask instead, "Were you born and raised in Hawaii?") On the Mainland, for example, "Californian" means any person who lives in (or has ties to) California. However, in Hawaii, the terms "Hawaiian" or "native Hawaiian" are reserved to mean someone who is descended from the indigenous people of Hawaii. This definition even appears in state laws. Because Hawaii is made of people of various ethnicities, someone whose family may have lived in Hawaii for generations may still not be Hawaiian by the above definition. To avoid misunderstanding, it is best to refer to Hawaii residents as such: "Islanders", "locals", or "''kamaʻaina''", unless you know for a fact that they are of native Hawaiian descent. Some Native Hawaiians may attribute accidents caused by nature (such as a landslide at Sacred Falls that killed several people) to the Menehune punishing tourists disrespecting the land. Menehune or not, Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places in the world and its sites deserve our respect. Bottom line: respect the land and the people; there may be more there than meets the eye. ==Connect== ===Post=== Hawaii uses the [https://www.usps.com U.S. Postal Service] with zip codes 96701-96898 and a state code of "HI". Postage in Hawaii uses the same rates as the mainland, and is considered domestic for all postal purposes. First class and priority mail do not experience delays, but ground shipments can be much slower. Private companies FedEx and UPS are present in Hawaii, express shipment times are the same, but add 2-3 days for ground shipments. ===Internet=== Free Wi-Fi is widely available, and can easily be found in most cafes and shopping centers. All major hotels offer free Wi-Fi for guests, and it is available at most airports. Public computers are available at public libraries for library cardholders; visitors may purchase a 3-month library card for $10. ===Phone=== Hawaii's area code is '''808'''. All 10 digits must be dialed when making local calls. When dialing any off-island telephone number, dial 1 + area code + phone number. You must include the 808 area code when calling another island. Long distance charges to the mainland, if any, are usually the same standard domestic rates as it would be if calling within the 48 contiguous states. Check with your phone/long distance company to be sure. ==Go next== As Hawaii is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the state has few nearby neighbors. * '''[[California]]''' - The point of departure for many visitors from the continental United States. [[San Francisco]] is over 150 miles closer than [[Los Angeles]] because it's much further west. A few other California cities also have non-stop flights as well. * '''[[Oceania]]''' - Hawaii can be a stepping off point to explore the many islands of the Pacific as well as the countries of '''[[Australia]]''' and '''[[New Zealand]]'''. * '''[[Japan]]''' and '''[[South Korea]]''' - Hawaii is a popular vacation destination for Japanese and Korean tourists as it is for American tourists there are direct flight options to various Japanese cities with multiple airlines at competitive fares. Flight times are 8 to 9 hours. {{IsPartOf|Polynesia}} {{isPartOf|United States}} {{usableregion}} {{geo|20.54022|-157.49451|zoom=8}} drnccbxp3js198nhkk06yx7zdapmrvc 5288927 5288925 2026-06-06T18:12:37Z Anyone150 1516949 /* Go next */ 5288927 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Hawaii banner Na Pali Coast.jpg|caption=From a trail along Kauai's Na Pali Coast}} '''Hawaii''' ([[Hawaiian phrasebook|Hawaiian]]: ''Hawaiʻi'', sometimes pronounced ''ha-VAI-ee'' by locals) is the 50th state of the [[United States]]. Situated nearly at the center of the north Pacific Ocean, Hawaii marks the northeast corner of [[Polynesia]]. While it was once a major hub for the whaling, sugar and pineapple industries, it is now economically dependent on tourism and the U.S. military. The natural beauty of the islands continues to be one of Hawaii's greatest assets. [[Honolulu]] is the state's capital, largest city, and cultural hub. [[Hawaiian]] and English are the official languages of Hawaii. ==Islands== Hawaii is an archipelago of over 19 volcanic islands spread over a geological "hot spot" in the Central Pacific. The Pacific plate on which the islands ride moves to the northwest, so in general the islands are older and smaller (due to erosion) as you move from southeast to northwest. There are eight major islands, six of which are open to tourism. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Hawaii regions map.png | regionmapsize=370px | region1name=[[Big Island|Hawaii]] | region1color=#b5d29f | region1items=''Hawaiʻi'' | region1description=Almost always called the '''Big Island''' to avoid confusion, it's the largest of the islands and home to Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa (the largest and one of the most active volcanoes on Earth), '''[[Hawaii Volcanoes National Park]]''', coffee and macadamia nut plantations, working ranches, and even green sand beaches. [[Kailua-Kona]] is the busiest part of the island on the dry, leeward side, and near the mega-resort Kohala Coast area with nearly zero annual precipitation. The saddle road (quite drivable and a must see – despite what rental car companies say) passes between the massive volcanoes and connects [[Kohala]] with [[Hilo]], the largest town on the Big Island and county seat with annual precipitation of more than {{in|300}} per year. Unlike anywhere else on Earth and definitely worth a look. | region2name=[[Oahu]] | region2color=#4f93c0 | region2items=''Oʻahu'' | region2description=Nicknamed "the Gathering Place," Oahu is the most populous and developed island. Its southern shore is home to the city of [[Honolulu]], the state capital and largest city; four out of every five ''kama'aina'' (Hawaii residents) call it home. It is the governmental and commercial center of the state, and [[Honolulu/Waikiki|Waikiki]] Beach is arguably the best known tourist destination in Hawaii. Outside the city are pineapple fields, and the [[North Shore (Oahu)|North Shore]] of Oahu, which is known each winter as the home of some of the largest waves in the world. The USS Arizona National Memorial at [[Pearl Harbor]] is also a very popular visitor destination. | region3name=[[Maui]] | region3color=#d56d76 | region3description=The second largest island in the chain, and home to the 10,023 foot (3,055 m) tall volcanic mountain crater of Haleakala. It is nicknamed "the Valley Isle" for the narrow plain between [[Haleakala National Park|Haleakala]] and the West Maui mountains. On the west side of the island are the resort areas of [[Lahaina]], [[Kaanapali]] and [[Kapalua]], while the south side is home to [[Kihei]], and [[Wailea]]. On the east side is the tiny village of [[Hana]], reached by one of the most winding and beautiful roads in the world. | region4name=[[Kauai]] | region4color=#71b37b | region4items=''Kauaʻi'' | region4description="The Garden Isle" is home to several natural wonders, such as the Wailua River, [[Waimea Canyon]], and the Na Pali Coast. Mount Waialeale is known as one of the rainiest spots in the world. It boasts the most beaches out of the major islands, with the longest being Polihale measuring {{mi|17}} in length. It's similar to the Big Island in that they have the most rural feel out of the 4 major islands. | region5name=[[Molokai]] | region5color=#578e86 | region5items=''Molokaʻi'' | region5description="The Friendly Isle" is the fifth largest and one of the least developed of the main Hawaiian Islands. It is home to Kalaupapa, the place where long term sufferers of Hansen's Disease (also known as leprosy) were forced into quarantine by the Hawaiian government until 1969. It is now known for pristine, breathtaking tropical landscapes, environmental stewardship, rich and deep Hawaiian traditions, and a visitor-friendly culture. | region6name=[[Lanai]] | region6color=#d5dc76 | region6items=''Lānaʻi'' | region6description=Known as "the Pineapple Isle," formerly the world’s largest pineapple plantation owned by Dole Foods; it is now home to two high-end resorts. Just 3,135 people live on its {{mi2|141}}. There are no traffic lights or bakeries. There is just one gas station and three main roads. It is ringed with vast and empty beaches, accessible only by four-wheel drive. | region7name=Niihau{{anchor|Niihau}} | region7color=#8a84a3 | region7items=''Niʻihau'' | region7description=A privately owned island with an entirely Native Hawaiian population. Until 1987, "the Forbidden Isle" was off limits to all but family members and invited guests of the owners. Tourism to the island is limited to helicopter, ATV, and hunting excursions originating on Kauai, and tourists are not permitted to visit the sole inhabited village on the island. There are around 130 Niihau residents and Hawaiian is the official language. They do not have running water, use solar power and live rent-free. | region8name=Kahoolawe{{anchor|Kahoolawe}} | region8color=#d09440 | region8items=''Kahoʻolawe'' | region8description=A former U.S. Navy bombing range, which remains uninhabited. Cleanup efforts to rehabilitate the island are continuing. }} ==Cities== The term "cities" is used here in a broad sense. Hawaii has no organized government below the county level. All communities that would be thought of as cities, towns, and the like in the rest of the US are merely "census-designated places", statistical entities established by the United States Census Bureau. {{Mapframe|21.3|-157.816667|zoom=6|height=|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Honolulu]]|url=|lat=21.3|long=-157.816667}} – state capital and most-populous community *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kahuku]]|url=|lat=21.680278|long=-157.950278}} – on Oahu *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kailua]]|url=|lat=21.3975|long=-157.739444}} – on Oahu *{{marker|type=city|name=Lihue|url=|lat=21.974722|long=-159.365556}} (Hawaiian: ''Līhuʻe'') – on Kauai *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Lahaina]]|url=|lat=20.886111|long=-156.674722}} (Hawaiian: ''Lāhainā'') – on Maui *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kahului]]|url=|lat=20.881667|long=-156.4675}} – on Maui *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Wailuku]]|url=|lat=20.891923|long=-156.502177}} – on Maui *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hilo]]|url=|lat=19.705556|long=-155.085833}} – largest community on the Big Island *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kailua-Kona]]|url=|lat=19.65|long=-155.994167}} – on the Big Island == Other destinations == [[File:Green sea turtle at Punaluu beach, Hawaii.jpg|thumb|250px|Green sea turtle at Punaluʻu Beach, Big Island]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail]]|url=|lat=18.911111|long=-155.681111}} on the Big Island. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Haleakala National Park]]|url=|lat=20.716667|long=-156.166667}} on Maui *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Hawaii Volcanoes National Park]]|url=|lat=19.383333|long=-155.2}} on the Big Island *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kalaupapa National Historical Park]]|url=|lat=21.189444|long=-156.981667}} on Moloka‘i *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park]]|url=|lat=19.421944|long=-155.910278}} on the Big Island *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Honolulu/Western#Pearl Harbor|USS Arizona National Memorial]]|url=|lat=21.365|long=-157.95}} on O‘ahu *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Waimea Canyon]]|url=|lat=20.020278|long=-155.667778}} on Kaua‘i *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Waikiki]]|url=|lat=21.2752|long=-157.8312}} on O‘ahu ==Understand== {{infobox|The name game|The [[:wikipedia:Reef triggerfish|reef triggerfish]] (''Rhinecanthus rectangulus''), the state fish of Hawaii, is known in the Hawaiian language as the ''humu&shy;humu&shy;nuku&shy;nuku&shy;āpuaʻa'', which means "triggerfish with a snout like a pig". It is not the longest Hawaiian fish name, as is often thought; that distinction instead goes to the ''lau&shy;wili&shy;wili&shy;nuku&shy;nukuʻoiʻoi'' ("long-snouted fish shaped like a wiliwili leaf"), the [[:wikipedia:Forcipiger longirostris|forceps butterflyfish]] (''Forcipiger longirostris'').}} The island of Oahu, the most populous and home to the state capital and largest city of Honolulu, is great for people who wish to experience the islands and still keep the conveniences of a large city. Rainforests and hiking trails are minutes from Waikiki Beach, one of the world's best tourist destinations. In the winter, large waves on Oahu's north shore turn the normally sleepy area into the surfing capital of the world. On the other hand, those who wish to experience Hawaii at a slower pace would do well to visit one of the Neighbor Islands (the other, less populated islands around Oahu). All the Neighbor Islands offer opportunities to relax and enjoy the sun and scenery. Many of the natural wonders of the islands are on the Neighbor Islands, from Waimea Canyon on Kauai, to Haleakala on Maui, to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. Numerous waterfalls and rainforests evoke memories of what the islands might have looked like before major corporations set their sights on Hawaii. The road to Hana is one of the most scenic on Maui, as you manipulate many turns overlooking the Eastern coast of the island. It leads you over bridges and past beautiful waterfalls. You can end up at the Oheo Gulch Pools (which are not sacred and there are more than seven), where the hiking is quite the experience. Several islands are recovering from severe and deadly wildfires in 2023. While some fire-affected areas remain closed to the public, visitation continues to be welcomed and encouraged throughout Maui and the islands of Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island. ===History=== Polynesians migrated to, and established communities on, the islands of Hawaii around 800 CE, part of the great expansion of [[In_the_footsteps_of_explorers#Discovering_the_Pacific_islands|Austronesian peoples]] that also populated most other Pacific islands. [[Voyages of James Cook|Captain James Cook]] was the first European visitor to the islands, arriving in 1778. At that time, each island was a separate kingdom. With the support of Western advisors and weapons, Kamehameha I of the island of Hawaii conquered all the islands except Kauai, which acquiesced to his rule in 1810. After Kamehameha II abolished the ''kapu'' (taboo) system, American missionaries came to the islands to spread Christianity. As the Native Hawaiians did not have any concept of owning land, the missionaries became official land owners of many of the islands. Their children became successful businessmen in the Islands and still own entire islands to this day. Pineapple and sugar cane plantations were established, and workers from other countries (in particular Japan, the Philippines, China, Korea and Portugal) were imported as contract laborers. Their descendants also became established as successful professionals. The Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown in 1893 by a group of American businessmen. While the U.S. administration at the time refused to annex the former sovereign nation, in 1898 the United States did annex the islands, which became a territory in 1900, and a state of the United States in 1959. Hawaii also became an important outpost for the U.S. military through the 20th century, and Pearl Harbor was the site of the Japanese attack on December 7, 1941, that resulted in the U.S. joining World War II (see [[Pacific War]]). Today, the military maintains its presence here, with several major military bases on the island of Oahu alone; Pearl Harbor remains the headquarters of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. Over the years, many major retail chains have expanded their presence in Hawaii, making the Islands look more and more like the continental United States, often at the expense of local businesses. Nevertheless, Hawaii remains culturally vibrant. Its population, descended from the Native Hawaiians, the original plantation workers, and more recent arrivals, and in which no one group has a majority, is often cited as an example of multiculturalism at its best. There is a strong commitment to perpetuating Native Hawaiian cultural traditions, and the cultural heritage of Hawaii's many immigrant communities from the Pacific, Asia and Europe. And certainly the environment is conducive to longevity. Hawaii has the longest predicted life expectancies of any U.S. state. ===Climate=== [[File:Rain at the Honolulu Museum of Art.jpg|thumb|You're more likely to be caught in the rain during the wet season (October to March).]] Depending on where you are in Hawaii, the weather can be very different over even short distances. On the same day, on Oahu you might find sun over the beaches in Waikiki and rain only a few miles away in Manoa Valley. Although the islands receive abundant amounts of both sunshine and rain, rain is more likely on the north and east sides of the islands, which face the prevailing northeasterly tradewinds (the "windward" side of the island), as well as the mountain peaks and valleys. The moist tropical air carried by the tradewinds is forced upward by the mountains, resulting in clouds and rain. Rain is less likely on the coastal areas of the "leeward" sides (the south and west sides) of the islands. Although there are no true "seasons" in the islands in the same sense as the rest of the U.S., the climate does go through annual cycles based on rainfall. The "wet" season in Hawaii (cooler temperatures and more rainfall) runs roughly from October to March, and the "dry" season (warmer temperatures and less rainfall) from April to September. There is therefore a higher probability of rain if you visit during the peak of tourist season in late December or January. Hurricane season in the islands runs from June to November. Although Hawaii's relative isolation means that it is affected only rarely by tropical cyclones, one of the storms or its remnants does hit or skirt the Islands every couple of years, such as Hurricanes Iwa and Iniki hitting Kauai in 1982 and 1992 respectively. Overall, Hawaii is warm and balmy — when you step out of the plane you'll immediately notice that the air is soft and humid — and during the summer months the tradewinds provide a pleasant breeze. Daytime temperatures generally range from the low 70s (21°C) in "winter" to the mid 80s (27°C) in "summer". Very rarely does the air temperature exceed 90°F (32°C) even in the hottest part of summer; however, the humidity will make it feel as if it were a few degrees hotter. Ocean temperatures range between 73°F (23°C) degrees in the winter to 78°F (25.5°C) in the summer. There is usually no more than a 20°F (12°C) difference between daytime high and nighttime low temperatures. Consequently, besides your driver's license, credit card, camera, binoculars, and other essentials, it's best to keep your clothes to a minimum... one or two pair of washable slacks/shorts, light shirts, walking shoes, sandals and swim gear. A light jacket or sweater may be necessary depending on when and where you go, but heavy clothing is not normally necessary in most areas. Sunscreen is essential since Hawaii's close proximity to the Equator translates into very strong sun radiation. The suitcase space you save can be used to fill up on island purchases. Although the above is true for most of the Islands, you will find exceptions. A good rule to remember is the higher the elevation, the cooler it will be. Upcountry areas of Kauai, Maui and the Big Island will be cooler during the day, in the 60s F, and much colder at night, in the 40s F. At the highest elevations on Maui and the Big Island, temperatures can drop to near freezing in places like Haleakala National Park, Volcanoes National Park, and Mauna Kea. On the Big Island, both of the largest mountains, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, can receive snowfall year around, mostly in the winter, and can even experience blizzard conditions. There is more of a difference from the day-to-night temperatures in Hawaii than there is summer-to-winter. Given that, there can be more of a difference from lower elevations to higher elevations than either of those, depending on where you are visiting. It's important to research the areas you plan to visit and bring clothing suitable for those conditions. ===Best times to go=== Hawaii's tropical weather tends to be most attractive to tourists when the weather is frightfully cold at home. It's not surprising, then, that the peak tourist season in Hawaii is the Northern Hemisphere winter (mid-December to mid-April). The highest prices tend to be during the Christmas and New Year's season, with a second peak around spring break in March and April. Hawaii's weather is at its best (not too hot and not too cold, with not so much rain) in April, May, September, and October — as it happens, this is also the period when some of the best deals can be had. ===Holidays=== Hawaii observes all the [[United States of America#Holidays|federal holidays]], except Columbus Day. It adds Prince Kuhio Day on March 26th, Good Friday (two days before Western Easter), King Kamehameha Day on June 11, Statehood Day on the 3rd Friday in August, and Election Day (in even-numbered years only, always on a Tuesday, from November 2nd to 8th). Also, some cities and towns that have a large population of federal workers or military personnel might observe Columbus Day anyway. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.gohawaii.com/ Go Hawaii] website ==Talk== {{see also|Hawaiian phrasebook}} '''[[Hawaiian phrasebook|Hawaiian]]''' and '''English''' are the official languages of Hawaii, albeit with English being the predominant language. However, if you encounter someone fluent in Hawaiian or learning the language and speak a few words of Hawaiian you'll instantly find yourself much more appreciated than the average tourist. [[Japanese phrasebook|Japanese]] is common in the tourism industry due to the large number of Japanese tourists who visit, as well as the large Japanese-American community in the state. There are also many communities that speak [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]], Cantonese, Tagalog, Ilocano, Vietnamese, Korean and Samoan. '''Hawaiian Pidgin English''', usually just called '''Pidgin''', is a creole that many locals grew up speaking which incorporates bits of Hawaiian, Chinese, Japanese, Tagalog, Portuguese and many other languages, in addition to its own unique idioms. It has a unique sound and feel. You will most likely hear Pidgin spoken on the street by Islanders in informal situations; it is Hawaii's language of everyday life. There are some subtle differences in English usage in Hawaii. Learning a few words of Hawaiian can be fun and useful. Some signs in Hawaii use Hawaiian words, and most street signs use Hawaiian names. Some useful words include: :; Hello : Aloha. (''ah-LOH-hah'') :; Goodbye : Aloha. (''ah-LOH-hah'') :; love : aloha (''ah-LOH-hah'') (So you indirectly refer to "love" when you first see someone and when they have to go.) :; Thank you. : Mahalo. (''mah-HAH-loh'') (Although this word is found on fast food trash receptacles around the islands, it does ''not'' mean "trash".) :; finished, done : pau (''pow'') :; help/respect : kokua (''koh-KOO-ah'') :; woman : wahine (''vah-HEE-neh'') :; man : kāne (''KAH-neh'') :; child : keiki (''KAY-kee'') :; local resident : kamaʻaina (''kah-mah-EYE-nah'') :; toward the mountains : mauka (''MOW-kah, MOW rhymes with pow'') :; toward the ocean : makai (''mah-KIGH'') :; appetizer : pupu ("POO-poo") :; delicious : ono ("oh-no") ===Shaka=== [[File:Gesture raised fist with thumb and pinky lifted.jpg|thumb|The shaka sign]] The '''shaka''' sign is a [[Gestures|hand gesture]] often used in Hawaii and adopted by surfers. To make a shaka, make a fist with your hand, and extend the thumb and smallest finger. Many people emphasize it by rotating their hand back and forth (along the arm, as if turning a doorknob). There's not an exact meaning to the shaka, but it generally conveys "aloha spirit". Drivers frequently sign the shaka to say "thank you" to another driver. ==Get in== [[File:Hawaje-NoRedLine.jpg|thumb|300px|A satellite view of the Hawaiian Islands and part of the vast expanse of the Pacific]] Foreign travelers entering Hawaii directly from another country are subject to the same entry requirements as for the United States in general. See the ''[[United States#Get in|Get in]]'' section of the [[United States]] article. As Hawaii is one of the 50 United States, flights between Hawaii and other states are considered domestic flights. Therefore, you never need to show a passport or other documentation when arriving in Hawaii from the U.S. Mainland. When leaving Hawaii on a domestic flight, you only need to show [http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/acceptable-ids approved picture ID], which for foreign visitors would typically be a passport. Hawaii has requirements to control the flow of plants and animals. The islands have unique plant and animal life found nowhere else. They also have diseases and pests not found on the U.S. Mainland, and are free of other diseases and pests that are commonly found elsewhere. Because of this, '''Hawaii is an agricultural quarantine zone'''. For travelers, this means three things: # You are required by the Hawaii State Department of Agriculture to fill out a written agricultural declaration while aboard your flight to Hawaii. One declaration form is required per family; the forms will be collected before landing. Any '''fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and the like''' must be declared and inspected by Department of Agriculture personnel at your port of arrival; some items may be prohibited from entering Hawaii. Penalties for non-compliance are stiff. To avoid delays and hassles, '''avoid bringing such items with you.''' (On the reverse side of this declaration is a Hawaii Tourism Authority questionnaire that asks for information about your stay. You are encouraged but not required to complete this questionnaire.) # When leaving Hawaii for the U.S. Mainland, '''all baggage (checked and carry-on) must be inspected''' by U.S. Department of Agriculture inspectors at the airport. With the exception of pineapples and treated papayas (pawpaw), any fresh fruits (grown in Hawaii or elsewhere) are prohibited from leaving Hawaii to control the spread of fruit flies. Consult the [https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/resources/traveler/hawaii/hawaiian_products U.S. Department of Agriculture] for more details. Depending on the airport you leave from and the airline, be prepared to submit to as many as ''three'' X-ray checkpoints on the way to your Mainland flight: having your checked bags X-rayed in the ticket lobby, the TSA security checkpoint, and perhaps a separate agricultural inspection for your carry-on bags on the way to your gate. That last checkpoint will probably have a sign that says, "Yes, you have to do this again...." # As Hawaii is rabies-free, '''pets''' such as dogs and cats are subject to [http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/ai/aqs/animal-quarantine-information-page/ complex and strict quarantine requirements]. The least restrictive provisions (direct airport release or 5-day maximum quarantine) require at least two rabies vaccinations at least thirty days apart and at least 90 days before arrival, the latest of which must be current; microchip implantation; and a negative rabies blood test within the last three years, but at least 120 days before arrival. Pets failing to meet these requirements will be subject to quarantine for up to 120 days. '''Hawaii does not observe Daylight Saving Time,''' which means that the time difference between Hawaii and most of North America varies by the time of year. Hawaii is two time zones behind the U.S. West Coast, thereby accounting for a ''three''-hour time difference during DST for most states. Travelers from Asia, Australia, and New Zealand should keep the International Date Line in mind when doing time conversions and flight reservations. Hawaii is 19 hours behind Japan, making it five hours ahead of Japan by the clock, but a day behind on the calendar. Most flights to Hawaii that leave Asia in the evening will arrive in the morning of the ''same'' day, and return flights that leave Hawaii in the morning will arrive in the early afternoon of the ''next'' day. ===By plane=== [[File:HonoluluAirportWelcomeSign.jpg|thumb|300px|Hawaii welcomes you!]] {{see also|Flying in the United States}} Most flights from the mainland U.S. and almost all international flights land in [[Honolulu]] on the island of [[Oahu]]. From here, passengers destined for a neighbor island will connect to an interisland flight (see By Plane in Get Around below). Nonstop service from the mainland is also available to [[Kahului]] on [[Maui]], [[Kona]] and [[Hilo]] on the [[Big Island]], and [[Lihue]] on [[Kauai]]. Kona also serves a limited number of non-stop flights from Japan, and seasonal service from Canada. Depending on the airline, nonstop flights to Honolulu leave from most major gateway airports on the West Coast (as well as some smaller ones), as well as many major airports in the Midwest and East Coast. The flight from [[Los Angeles]] or [[San Francisco]] takes about 5 hours, which is comparable to a flight between the West and East Coasts of the contiguous United States. Thus, a flight from [[New York City|New York]] will take about 10½ hours. [http://jetstar.com Jetstar] is a budget Australian airline that connects [[Honolulu]] to several cities in [[Australia]]. From Southeast Asia, there are also low-cost airlines from [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Singapore]] and [[Manila]] with [https://www.airasia.com/en/home.page?cid=1 AirAsia X]. ===By boat=== There are a few trans-Pacific cruises to Hawaii that leave from ports on the West Coast. On an 18-day, {{convert|5000|mi|km|adj=on}} round-trip cruise between Hawaii and the West Coast, about 12 of those days will be at sea, with nothing on the horizon and nothing to do except what is on the ship. Even if you are an avid cruiser, you may get more Hawaii bang from your cruise buck by flying to Honolulu and taking a seven-day interisland cruise that starts and leaves from there. Pacific Ocean cruises to and from California depart for the most part from mid-fall to mid-spring. (See [[#Get around|Get around: By boat]] for more info on the regular cruises from the Mainland.) There are a few [http://www.freightercruises.com freighter services], but if you are an American citizen embarking in the United States and wishing to travel to Hawaii then you cannot travel this way on a foreign-flagged ship due to the U.S. Passenger Vessel Services Act of 1886. Instead, try cruises from Ensenada, [[Baja California]] or Vancouver, [[British Columbia]]. It is also worthwhile to troll marinas on the West Coast of the contiguous United States, leaving your contact info and posting to online discussion boards for people planning to spend around a month sailing from the mainland. Ensure that any expectation of compensation including work duties, food, supplies, and damaged equipment is covered in writing so everything is clear. Storms and days stuck becalmed are to be expected. ==Get around== ===By plane=== Air travel is, by and large, compulsory for traveling within the state. Travelers can choose from either a scheduled or unscheduled air carrier. Three scheduled inter-island air carriers, '''[https://www.hawaiianairlines.com/ Hawaiian Airlines]''', '''[http://www.mokuleleairlines.com Mokulele Airlines]''', and '''[https://www.southwest.com Southwest Airlines]''', provide set scheduled flights between the islands. You can save money and time by planning "triangle routes" that arrive in Hawaii on one island and leave on another, avoiding the cost of a return inter-island flight. Scheduled flight times run anywhere from 20 minutes to one hour, and can usually be purchased a day or two before departure, although this may increase the cost of traveling. Visitors wanting to fly according to their own demand (as opposed to scheduled times) should consider flying on an unscheduled air carrier also known as '''air taxi''' service. Contact the air carrier directly and arrange a time and place for pick up. '''[http://www.iolaniair.com Iolani Air]{{Dead link|date=November 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' and '''[http://www.bigislandair.com Big Island Air]''' are two such air carriers. The Hawaiian islands are populated with airstrips that scheduled carriers do not service. In these instances air taxi companies may be the only means of traveling. Hunters and campers with cumbersome gear planning trips to remote island regions, as well as visitors wishing to "island hop", should consider air taxi service. ===By boat=== In general, ferry services between the islands are few and far between, and many are not a practical means of transportation. Charter boats sail and motor between some islands, especially the [[Maui]]-[[Molokai]]-[[Lanai]] area. Crossing the channels between islands can be extremely rough going. A few charter companies specialize in having boats delivered interisland and can meet you at your destination. A company offering ferries is [http://go-lanai.com Expeditions] (Maui–Lana'i $30 one way for adults and $20 for children). '''[https://www.ncl.com Norwegian Cruise Lines]''' operates a [[cruise ships|cruise ship]], ''Pride of America'', between the islands, embarking and disembarking in [[Honolulu]]. Inquire at nearby marinas about joining the crew of a local sailboat or yacht out for a cruise. ===By bus=== On Oahu there is an excellent public transportation system on '''[http://www.thebus.org TheBus]''' for bus travel between Honolulu, Waikiki, Kaneohe, and the surrounding suburban and rural areas of Oahu. You can buy a booklet called "TheBus" at a local [http://www.abcstores.com/ ABC Store] giving route information on how to get around the island or online on [http://www.thebus.org TheBus.org] or download "DaBus2" app on a mobile device. Public transportation is limited on the neighboring islands, so renting a car makes sense. There are some bus services available within and between populated areas on the other islands. They are: *'''[http://www.heleonbus.hawaiicounty.gov Hele-On]{{Dead link|date=April 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (Hilo, Kona, Waimea and around the big island of Hawai'i) *'''[http://www.kauai.gov/Transportation Kaua'i Bus]''' (Kauai) *'''[http://www.mauicounty.gov/index.aspx?NID=605 Maui Bus]''' (Kahului, Wailuku, Lahaina, and other places in western Maui. No service to the Haleakala NP in the eastern part of the island). No regular bus services on Molokai or Lanai. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/hawaii/ here]. ===By car=== {{seealso|Driving in the United States}} {{infobox|Interstates? In ''Hawaii''?|[[File:I-H1.svg|125px|right]] Visitors to Oahu will notice something vaguely familiar about Honolulu's freeways: they are marked with the same familiar red, white, and blue Interstate highway signs as on the Mainland, except with an H as part of the number. Many a visitor has wondered why Hawaii has interstate highways when you can't even drive between islands, let alone between Hawaii and the rest of the United States. The answer lies in the full name of the Interstate highway system: The National System of Interstate and '''Defense''' Highways. Oahu has military bases from four major branches of the military, including Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, and Schofield Barracks, and the routes of the Hawaii interstates pass by or terminate at one or more of these bases. In short, they're as much designed for transporting troops as commuters. Even on the mainland, it's not unheard of for a non-auxiliary Interstate not to cross state lines; several Interstate highways also run entirely within a single state. Alaska and Puerto Rico also have highways funded as Interstates, although they're not signed as such.}} If you want to take your car to Hawaii, it will either need to be amphibious or freighted by ship with very high cost, making this infeasible unless you plan a long-term stay in Hawaii. However, Hawaii is the only state that honors all other U.S. state vehicle licenses until they expire, provided you apply for a permit within 10 days of the car's arrival. (Incidentally, Hawaii is also the only state that does not require intended residents to exchange their out-of-state driver's licenses.) Car rentals should be booked as soon as possible since, as elsewhere in the US, the price charged is based on a supply/demand basis. The exception is Waikiki where you will not need a car on a permanent basis so just rent a car the day before you want one. Some hotels may charge you for car parking; check with your hotel for parking fees before you book your car. Gasoline, while nowhere near the prices charged in Europe, is more expensive in Hawaii than in many areas of the Mainland. There was a time when gas prices in Hawaii were much more expensive than other states. Nowadays, however, average prices are comparable to San Francisco and Los Angeles, and are sometimes below those cities. Expect to pay about 20-25% more than the average price on the Mainland for gasoline in Honolulu. Neighbor Island prices can be as much as 10-15% above that. The major highways are referred to by number (H-1, H-2, and H-3; they're never called "I-H-1" etc.), but most locals refer to other roads not by number but by name, and will likely not understand if you ask for a road by number. For example, you would never hear someone refer to Kalanianaole Highway as "route 72" or "highway 72." If you ask for directions, they will likely not be given in terms of compass direction. Instead you will probably receive relative directions based on landmarks. Common landmarks include '''''mauka''''' (toward the mountains), '''''makai''''' (toward the ocean), and on Oahu, '''''ʻEwa''''' (toward Ewa Beach, roughly west) and '''Diamond Head''' (toward Diamond Head, roughly east). So a query for a grocery store might be met with "go two blocks ''makai'', turn right on King and it's half a mile up on the ''mauka'' side of the street." ===By moped, scooter or motorcycle=== Scooters are also an excellent alternative for getting around the islands. Rental rates are fairly cheap: about $50/day, or $135 for three days, which you can sometimes haggle down. The scooters are also fun to ride and are cheap on gas (typical mileage is 60&ndash;100&nbsp;mpg, or 2.3&ndash;3.9&nbsp;L/100&nbsp;km). You can ride them anywhere except on limited-access highways (of which there aren't many in Hawaii, and there's always a surface street that's probably more scenic). Scooters only require a valid license for driving a car, not a motorcycle license. The driver must be over 15 (legally out-of-state license aren't acceptable unless the driver is 18, but this is rarely enforced). It's illegal for two or more persons to ride a moped, although this may not be enforced in more remote areas such as [[Big Island]]. Helmets are not mandatory, but if you want one (which is always a good idea) you should be able to rent one with your scooter, possibly for free. When you get your scooter, inspect it first, as some are in bad repair: make sure the headlights and turn signals are working, and insist on taking it for a quick spin around the block to check that the acceleration, transmission, brakes, and steering are okay. If anything is amiss, insist on a replacement scooter, or walk away from the deal and find another rental company. Scooters that can go over 30&nbsp;mph or have an engine larger than 49&nbsp;cc are classified the same as motorcycles, so you need a [http://www.city-data.com/forum/hawaii/947879-question-mopeds-scooters-vespas-etc.html#post13729771 motorcycle license]. Motorcycle rentals are easy to find. On most islands, you can also rent out Harley-Davidson motorcycles. ===By bicycle=== Depending on where you travel a bicycle can be a great form of transportation if you keep a few things in mind. Some roads are very narrow and winding which may create a hazard when sharing the road with cars. There are also some steep hills as Hawaii is a series of mountains erupting from the sea; without a topo map an apparent shortcut may require a challenging hill while a long loop may be flat and avoid large terrain getting you there quicker. If you stay near the beach there is the salty sea air and rain which will eventually rust a bicycle which is kept outside, keep on top of chain and part maintenance and cleaning to prevent damage. Honolulu has a [https://www.honolulu.gov/bicycle/bicycleeducation/bicycle-registration.html bicycle registration law]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} requiring a tag for $15, and bicycles without registration can be impounded by police. The law and common sense require a white front and red rear light when operating a bicycle during twilight and night. Many airlines charge an oversized luggage fee for most full size bikes even when boxed; some tour-capable folding bikes can be fit inside a standard suitcase, but most public transportation does not allow bicycles at all. == See == == Do == <!-- do not list individual businesses here - those should go in city articles. instead provide an overview of Hawaiian activities with pointers to the island(s) on which they most commonly occur --> The Hawaiian islands offer a vast number of activities. Hiking and eco tours are popular on most islands, with opportunities for horseback riding, ATV, air tours, and other methods of exploring the landscape. Museums and historical sites such as Pearl Harbor are also to be found throughout the islands. Cultural activities such as the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu also make for interesting day-long activities. Oahu is famous for Pearl Harbor tours, but also popular are '''shark dives''' in cages, Waikiki snorkel tours as well as around Oahu Tours where you will see all the major highlights of Oahu including Diamond Head, the North Shore and '''Dole Plantation''' where you can sample menu items made from fresh picked pineapples. Maui is the location for '''humpback [[whale watching]]''' from December 15 to April 15 each year as the massive humpbacks migrate to Hawaii's warm waters to bear their calves. Also famous from Maui is the '''Molokini Crater''' which is a partially submerged volcano crater that you can snorkel at. Kauai is untamed and beautiful. It has been featured in many major motion pictures over the past two decades (''Hook'', ''Jurassic Park'', ''Tropic Thunder'', ''The Descendants'', ''Avatar'', and many more). See this island by land or by air to take in the true beauty of this island. Oh and just be ready to see the roaming Roosters that inhabit the island. You can take a land tour or fly over the incredible '''huge volcano''' on a helicopter tour of the Big Island. Doors-off flights allow you to feel the heat from the volcano, an amazingly unique experience. Also on the Big Island you have the rare opportunity to '''swim with wild dolphins''', not captive ones. Hawaii is best known for its '''beaches and water activities'''. '''Surfing''' is practically a religion in Hawaii, and '''scuba diving''' and '''snorkeling''' opportunities exist nearly everywhere. In addition, jet skiing, parasailing and kayaking are available in tourist areas. Since many of the islands' tours and excursions are interacting with nature in some way, it's important to look into each and make sure they are respecting the islands. There are many endangered animals and plants, and because of this there are many laws protecting them. An example would be tour boats that have been fined for chasing dolphins or whales in order to please the tourists, which is illegal and highly disrespectful. Govern yourself the same way while you visit and remember to "kokua na `aina," or respect the land. ==Buy== As in the rest of the United States, U.S. dollars are the local currency. There are plenty of banks, ATMs, and money change offices in all cities. However, none of the major American and foreign banks have branches in Hawaii, so the banking sector is served exclusively by local banks, the largest of which are Bank of Hawaii, First Hawaiian Bank, and American Savings Bank. ATMs are scarcer on the North Shore of Oahu and other rural areas. Because Hawaii is an island state and transporting goods to Hawaii is more difficult, the prices for most goods are more expensive. Under federal law, most goods manufactured overseas in Asia must bypass Hawaii and go directly to the West Coast of the United States. They are brought to Hawaii on another ship, and the prices must include that cost of that second ship. Hawaii has a 4.166% General Excise Tax (GET), which many retailers pass through like a sales tax on their receipts. The City and County of Honolulu adds an additional amount, making the tax rate on Oahu 4.712%. The GET is not a sales tax because it is imposed on all business receipts in Hawaii. It is another reason why retail prices in Hawaii are so high, because they must include the GET paid by a Hawaii-based manufacturer, wholesaler, or distributor and passed through to the retailer. ===Clothing=== Other than the stereotypical grass skirt (which is not generally worn in Hawaii except by hula dancers), no pieces of clothing are more associated with the Islands than the aloha shirt and the ''muʻumuʻu''. The ever-present '''aloha shirt''' comes in a wide variety of designs. On one end, there are the brightly colored, tourist-oriented, polyester aloha shirts that many tourist-oriented stores throughout the Islands carry. On the other end of the spectrum are '''reverse print''' aloha shirts, which have become standard business attire among businessmen in Hawaii, in the same way that the business suit is on the mainland. These aloha shirts are usually cotton-polyester blend with the design printed on the ''inside'' of the shirt, resulting in muted colors that are considered businesslike in Hawaii. This kind of aloha shirt can be found in department stores. For women, the '''''muʻumuʻu''''' (English: "muumuu") is a long Hawaiian dress, usually made of cotton, that hangs loosely from the shoulder. A special note on shoes: the lightweight sandal commonly referred to on the Mainland as a "flip-flop" or "thong" is known as a '''"slipper"''' or '''"slippa"''' in Hawaii. Using the mainland term will get you a quizzical look from locals. Call them by their island name and they will instantly know what you are talking about. ===Made in Hawaii=== Locally made bath & body products are popular souvenirs. The islands feature some of the most refreshing fragrances, which are featured in Hawaiian shampoos, body lotions, soaps, oils, incense and floating candles. ==Eat== Contemporary food in Hawaii, like the language and popular culture, is a medley of traditional Hawaiian, Portuguese, American, and Asia-Pacific flavors. Pacific "fusion" cuisine was largely invented in Hawaii. Well-known local chefs include Sam Choy, Alan Wong, Russell Siu, Roy Yamaguchi, and George "Chef Mavro" Mavrothalassitis. Seafood is, of course, fresh and tasty. Local beef comes from ranches on [[Maui]] and coffee is grown on the [[Big Island]] and [[Kauai]]. Tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango, bananas, guavas, and papaya, as well as fresh sugar cane, can be bought in most corner stores (although you may be surprised to learn that many of those fruits are now imported from distant locales such as the [[Philippines]] and [[Brazil]]). One of the most common ways that local food is served is in the form of '''plate lunch''', usually meat or fish with two scoops of rice and macaroni salad. It's always a good deal at any lunch wagon, mall, or outside food court. [http://www.hawaiianbarbecue.com L&L Drive Inn] and [http://www.zippys.com/ Zippy's]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} are probably the most widely distributed chain of plate lunch spots in the Hawaiian islands. Branches of L&L are in some locations on the Mainland as well (as L&L Hawaiian Barbecue). Another way of enjoying local food when roaming around the island is to keep an eye out for the converted trucks or vans that are parked in their regular spots in gas station parking lots, some parks and a variety of places on the island. These '''lunch wagons''' offer plate lunches, are popular with the locals and provide great meals (on plastic plates) at very reasonable prices. There is no reason to fear them; they are very common and popular. '''Food carts''' provide other kinds of cuisine besides the standard plate lunch. You may be surprised to find that even the McDonald's menu is different. '''Saimin''', a Hawaiian noodle soup inspired by Chinese noodle soups, is a permanent menu item, and was the first regional food to be served in a McDonald's. Another favorite is the breakfast platter at Hawaiian McD's, which features Portuguese sausage, Spam, eggs, and steamed rice, sometimes with fresh pineapple. (Contrary to its poor reputation on the mainland, '''Spam''' has traditionally been very popular in Hawaii and is even used in various adapted ethnic dishes.) Also, red '''fruit punch''' is a non-carbonated fruit-flavored alternative to Coke or Sprite at the soda fountain. Perhaps the best setting for tourists to enjoy traditional Hawaiian food is at a '''luau''' (''lū‘au''), a traditional Hawaiian feast. Tourists can find luaus at various locations in the Islands, including many of the major resort hotels. At a modern luau, traditional Hawaiian favorites are served as a ''pūpū'' (buffet of appetizers and small main dishes, similar in size to Spanish ''tapas'', which gave its name to the American Chinese "pupu platter"), along with Hawaiian music, hula, and other Polynesian entertainment. The downside is that prices vary in the expensive range; expect to pay between $50 and $90 per adult and about half that per child. Dishes that are often found at luaus include: * '''''Lomi'' salmon''', salted salmon hand-mixed (''lomi-lomi'' means "to massage") with tomatoes, onions, and pepper; like an island salsa * '''''Kālua'' pig''', pork wrapped in banana leaves and steamed inside an ''imu'' (ground boiler); similar to pulled pork * '''''Pipi kāula''''', Hawaiian style beef jerky * '''''Poi''''', ground and boiled taro root paste * '''''Laulau''''', pork and butterfish (black cod) wrapped in ti plant leaves then steamed * '''''Lū‘au''''', taro leaves baked with coconut cream and usually octopus (this dish inspired the modern name of the Hawaiian feast) * '''''Haupia''''', a gelatin-like dessert prepared from thickened coconut milk; famous for being a very mild laxative Other local dishes include favorites such as the following: [[File:SPAM musubi.jpg|thumb|250px|The ubiquitous spam musubi]] * '''''Poke''''', chopped and seasoned raw fish (like a tartare), eaten by itself or over sushi rice. * '''''ʻAhi''''', yellowfin tuna, excellent as ''sashimi'' (Japanese style sliced raw fish) or as ''poke''. * '''''Mahimahi''''', dolphin fish, served as a steak, sandwich, or in almost-raw thin strips. * '''''Ono''''', a type of fish also known as wahoo. Not coincidentally, the name resembles the Hawaiian word for "delicious," ''ʻono''. * '''Shave ice''', an island version of snow cones made from finely shaved ice, comes in lots of ''ʻono'' flavors. Order your shave ice with azuki beans and/or a scoop of ice cream. * '''Saimin''', Hawaii's version of a Chinese noodle soup. * '''Malasada''', fried bread rolled in plenty of sugar, a sort of Portuguese donut. Often sold at special events. * '''Manapua''', local name for a popular type of Chinese dim sum otherwise known as ''char siu bao''. Cured sweet pork wrapped in soft white bread. * '''Spam musubi''', an unorthodox variant of Japanese riceballs (''musubi''), composed of salted rice formed into a rectangular shape and topped with spam, wrapped in seaweed. Popular enough to be sold in every Hawaiian 7-Eleven. * '''Chicken/pork adobo''', Filipino dish widely offered and appreciated in Hawaii, where the meat is marinated and then cooked in vinegar and soy sauce. * '''Loco moco''', a local specialty consisting of a hamburger patty on rice, topped with over easy egg and gravy. Excellent with tabasco sauce. Can be eaten for breakfast or lunch. * '''Chicken katsu''', fried chicken cutlet with savory sauce. Usually served with rice and mac salad. If you are roaming the island away from tourist areas, you may find restaurants are scarce. Many of the numerous golf courses have dining rooms open to the public that offer great meals. They seem to welcome the non-golfer. For specific places at which to eat, see the individual island or city articles. Be sure to check the coupon books that are available at display stands for meal specials. Popular local snacks are also heavily influenced by the large mix of cultures present in Hawaii, primarily the Chinese and Japanese. Since many of these snacks are unique to Hawaii and cannot be found anywhere else, consider purchasing a few bags from any grocery store to bring on your travels. A large portion of local snacks fall under the category known as "Crack Seed" which refers to a variety of pickled, candied, and dehydrated fruit snacks of Chinese origin. The most popular iterations of Crack Seed snacks are: *'''Li hing mui''' - Salted dried plums that are especially popular with the younger locals. Li Hing Mui is known for its unique sweet, salty, and sour flavor. It is commercially sold either with the plum seed intact or seedless and also in a powdered form that can be sprinkled onto arare, fruits, gummy bears, and many other snacks. *'''Pickled or dried fruits''' - Mangoes are usually dehydrated for a sweet snack or kept wet and flavored with Li Hing Mui powder. Lemon and orange peels are also salted and dried for a salty/sour snack. Other popular local snacks include: *'''Arare''' - Japanese rice crackers flavored with soy sauce that come in many different shapes and sizes. Arare is commonly paired with dried seaweed, li hing mui powder, or popcorn. Also commonly referred to as "Kaki Mochi" or "Mochi Crunch". *'''Dried Seafood''' - Dried cuttlefish and octopus strips, known by their Japanese names "Ika" and "Tako", are very popular snacks. Tuna, or "Ahi", is also dried and made into Ahi Jerky. *'''Macadamia nuts''' - Originally brought over from [[Australia]], where they are a part of Aboriginal cuisine, but first grown commercially in Hawaii. Dry roasted macadamia nuts are commercially sold plain, with flavoring, or in chocolate. Macadamia nuts in snack form are more popular with tourists than with locals and are usually given as gifts. If you would rather catch your own, fishing in the ocean or gathering in tidepools is free and requires no permit. Fresh-water fishing, however, does require a license. ==Drink== '''Beer''': there are a number of excellent local brewpubs in Hawaii. Mehana, Sam Choy's, Honu, Waimea Brewing Company, Liz's Pub, Keoki's and Kona Brewing Company all brew beer in Hawaii or brew it on the mainland and ship it to the islands. The largest of the group is Kona Brewing, which has won several national awards and runs two brew pub restaurants in the islands (one in Kailua Kona, the other in Hawaii Kai on Oahu). '''Cocktails''': The '''mai tai''' is said to have been invented in California, but it's long since been adopted by Hawaii and is well worth trying there. ==Sleep== '''Resorts:''' There are many resorts in Hawaii. Waikiki is famous for its beach and nightlife but is an urban neighborhood, so not necessarily what you might think of as a resort. There are other resorts on the Kona Coast of the Big Island, such as in Waikoloa Village, in Maui, or at Turtle Bay on the northern tip of the Big Island, where there is a resort that is widely known for its sunsets. '''AirBnB:''' It is illegal to list or use AirBnBs outside of tourist districts due to laws on minimum rental periods. Both the person staying and the person listing their unit can be fined up to $10,000 per day they violate this law. ==Learn== Tourists who want to get a taste of Hawaiian culture can sign up for classes in hula, surfing and lei-making at most tourist destinations. There are also a number of cultural and historical centers on [[Oahu]] well worth your time, such as the '''Bishop Museum''' and '''Iolani Palace'''. If you have the money, the time and the inclination, the '''Polynesian Cultural Center''' provides a window into Polynesian culture. As its name implies, the Polynesian Cultural Center covers not just Hawaii but also the cultures of Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Easter Island and the Maori people of New Zealand. The outer islands also have destinations such as Maui Center for Culture and the Arts and the Big Island has the Hilo Art Museum. the Lyman House Museum and the Pacific Tsunami Museum as well as the University of Hawaii's ʻImiloa Astronomy Center and Kula Kai Caverns. For those on a budget, there are many activities you can do on any island that are free. All state parks are free to visit and even some National Parks. When the National Parks are not free, most find them very affordable. Hiking, beaches, snorkeling and other like activities are always free when on public land and there are no private beaches. On the Big Island there are many free ranger programs at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical park and other locations. At the Visitor Information Station on Mauna Kea, you can stay any night of the year between 6PM and 10PM and enjoy a free astronomy tour including large and small telescopes for you to look through. Some hiking and other activities are in National Parks, like Volcanoes so they are at cost, of course. ==Work== The unemployment rate in Hawaii is generally below the average unemployment rate for the country as a whole in Mar 2019, 2.8% vs 3.8%). Hawaii is not an easy place to legally find casual work for non-US work permit holders. To apply for a local government job, by law you must be a Hawaii resident. ==Stay safe== Theft is a big problem in cities as well as beaches and parks. If you are camping on a beach, keep bags locked in a car (but don't assume that they are safe in the trunk, especially if you are driving a rental) and keep valuables in a hidden money belt. Although Hawaii is generally considered relatively safe, it does have some violent crime. Consequently, women should not walk alone in unlit areas. Although Honolulu has one of the lowest violent crime rates of metro areas in the U.S., use your common sense. Stay smart and act as if you were in your own home city: lock doors, lock cars, and don't leave valuables lying around. Some campgrounds now require a permit (this has the effect of moving homeless people away from tourist areas). Be sure to apply for a reserved area and have your permit even in free camping areas especially around Honolulu. Any of the beaches are vulnerable to pickpockets and thieves who break into cars. If you are using a rental car, it is advised you buy a bumper sticker or two to make it seem like you are a local. Paradoxically, keeping the car windows open will prevent break-ins and car damage, as the locals will think there is nothing of worth in the car. As a rule of thumb, do not bring anything to the beach you do not plan on using. If you must bring money, bring a friend to keep it safe. If you are planning a hike in the mountains, monitor local weather reports carefully and use extreme caution in case of rain. Rain is more likely in the mountains, and flash flooding can occur near stream beds with little or no warning. Unsuspecting hikers can drown and be swept downstream. ===Civil defense sirens=== [[File:Pāhoehoe and Aa flows at Hawaii.jpg|thumb|Pāhoehoe lava and ʻaʻā flows on the Big Island, as seen from a helicopter]] Although it is rather rare, the threat of a natural disaster can occur at any time in Hawaii, sometimes with little or no warning. Besides the occasional destructive lava flow on the Big Island and occasionally destructive hurricanes (see Weather in Understand above), Hawaii can also experience [[earthquakes|tsunamis and earthquakes]]. In 1960 the Great Chilean Earthquake (magnitude 9.5) generated a destructive tsunami that devastated Hilo on the Big Island, killing 61 people. In 1992, Hurricane Iniki made a direct hit on Kauai, killing six and causing $1.8 billion in damage. In 2006, most of the state was affected by a magnitude 6.7 quake off Kailua-Kona. No casualties were reported, but it caused extensive property damage and power outages of up to 14 hours on Oahu. Hawaii has a highly developed civil defense system. High-pitched civil defense sirens are tested statewide at 11:45AM on the first working day of each month unless hazardous weather is occurring. Two tones may be tested: a steady alert siren used in the event of imminent natural disaster such as a tsunami, and a wailing tone that oscillates in pitch from high to low, to be used in the event of confirmed, imminent enemy attack. If you hear the '''steady''' tone siren go off at any other time, turn on the nearest radio or television set for emergency information. In the unlikely event you hear the '''wailing''' tone go off at any time, '''seek shelter immediately''' and stay there, and stay tuned to radio or TV for further instructions. ===Natural disasters=== If a [[Cyclones|hurricane or tropical storm]] is expected, you will usually have at least several days' notice, and local media will pass on advisories, watches, and warnings from the National Weather Service. Your hotel will likely have emergency plans; check with them for advice and stay indoors during the high winds and rain that accompany a tropical cyclone. If a [[tsunami]] is expected, you will only have several hours' notice. Either evacuate coastal areas subject to inundation (this includes most of Waikiki), or failing that, find the nearest concrete high-rise hotel and go to the third story or above. '''Follow the instructions of police and first responders at all times. If ordered to evacuate an area, do so quickly.''' ==Stay healthy== '''Hospitals''' in Hawaii meet U.S. standards for care, and can be found in the urban areas of each island. The hospitals in Honolulu are larger and have the most advanced equipment; the hospitals on the neighbor islands provide general care. There is a shortage of specialists on the Neighbor Islands. Depending on where you are and how serious your condition is, you may have to be medically evacuated to Honolulu for treatment. All tourists, including U.S. citizens, should have [[travel insurance]] with medi-evac coverage, which can get you back home, if needed. The main tourist areas of each island have walk-in '''urgent care clinics''' where you can receive non-emergency treatment for whatever ails you. Some clinics even make hotel room calls. Check with the local phone book or your hotel. In Waikiki, try '''Doctors on Call''' (+1 808-971-6000). The clinic is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. '''Pharmacies''' can also be found in most major shopping areas. Mainland customers of CVS who need assistance with prescriptions should look for the nearest branch of '''Longs Drugs''' (the former pharmacy chain had such high brand recognition in Hawaii that CVS chose to retain the brand on its Hawaii locations). '''Walgreens''' has opened numerous locations. If you go hiking in the backcountry or go swimming in freshwater pools in Hawaii, you risk catching '''leptospirosis.''' Leptospirosis generally causes flu-like symptoms; in rare cases it can be fatal; the incubation period can be from 2-30 days after exposure. Do not swim in freshwater pools if you have open sores; see a doctor if you develop flu-like symptoms after hiking or swimming. If you do not have open sores and swim in these areas, the best way to avoid Leptospirosis or any bacteria is to never drink any natural water, no matter how clean it looks. If you are backpacking and this is a must, remember to bring the needed water filters and/or iodine pills to treat your water. Be sure to have travel '''health insurance'''. If you are a U.S. resident with private health insurance, you should consult your insurance carrier to determine what co-payments apply and to what extent your insurance is accepted in Hawaii by doctors and hospitals in the event you need health care while on your trip. However, if you get a job in Hawaii - even a part-time job - you will receive health insurance by state law (presuming that you are a U.S. citizen or have a green card and are therefore legally eligible to work). See ''Stay healthy'' in [[United States of America]] for more information. If you have respiratory problems, be aware of '''volcanic smog (also known as vog)'''. Vog is formed when sulfur dioxide gas from Kilauea mixes with sunlight, water, and dust particles to form a haze made up primarily of sulfur compounds. Normally the northeasterly trade winds blow vog away from the rest of the islands. Southeasterly winds (also known as Kona winds in Hawaii), however, can blow vog toward the other islands. Vog can be a nearly constant presence on the Big Island. While many people in Hawaii can experience symptoms related to vog, it can especially affect those with asthma or other chronic respiratory illness. If you have a respiratory condition and plan to visit the Big Island, consult your doctor for advice. When going to the beach or swimming, always wear '''sunscreen lotion or sun guard''' to protect your skin from burns, as well as hats, covers and sunglasses. The islands are far closer to the equator than most tourists understand, so even if the weather is cooler, the sun's power is still more intense. ==Cope== ===Dress=== Hawaii's laid-back reputation extends to dress: with ideal weather year-round in most places, shorts are always appropriate around the islands. Long pants are fine, too, and you will still be quite comfortable. You ''do'' normally need to wear a shirt in public; going bare-chested is for the beach, although businesses near the beach are tolerant of it, particularly outside of the city. Sandals and flip-flops are always fine for casual wear, but they're always called ''slippers'' or ''slippa'' by locals. Going barefoot off the beach is not common in the cities, but again, businesses tolerate it to some extent. Hawaii has many of the Earth's climates on each small island. Research the locations you plan to visit and dress accordingly, as some areas like Volcanoes National Park or Mauna Kea on the Big Island, or Haleakala National Park on Maui will leave you miserable in shorts and tank tops, as they may have below freezing weather, drenching rain and even snow. For the beach or pool, boardshorts or swimming trunks for men are the most popular, though with so many visitors from Asia, speedos are welcome too. Female toplessness is legal in Hawaii, if uncommon. Swimming nude is illegal, although there are a few isolated beaches on each island where people risk it. Unless you're spending the day trekking from beach to beach, '''save beachwear for the beach''' and wear regular clothes. Businessmen in Hawaii forgo suits and wear slacks with muted aloha shirts. As a visitor, you would be overdressed in a suit; a dress shirt (with or without a tie) and slacks would be fine. If you do wear an aloha shirt for business, pair it with khaki pants or slacks, socks, and dress shoes or loafers, and button all but the top button while at the office. Normally aloha shirts are worn untucked and without an undershirt, but those aspects are up to you. The business aloha shirt extends also to dressing up for fine dining, entertainment, and even church; some preachers wear business aloha shirts for church services. As a visitor, just put on a collared shirt, shoes (such as casual loafers), and, depending on the restaurant you're going to, either shorts or slacks. Ties and jackets will never be necessary. ==Respect== In general, American standards of etiquette (see ''[[United States of America#Respect|Respect]]'' in [[United States of America]]) apply in Hawaii. Hawaii does however have certain cultural differences, owing to the Native Hawaiians and the large population of Asians and people of Asian descent. * As is the custom in many Asian countries, always '''remove your footwear''' when entering the home of an island resident, if so invited. Shoes and sandals are generally left on the front porch or just inside the front door. * '''Hawaiian culture''' should be respected and travelers should be sensitive to the state's rich cultural heritage and diversity — and the fact that the tourist experience of Hawaiian culture may only scratch the surface. For instance, there are many ''heiau'' (temples) in the Islands, where the ancient Hawaiian religion was practiced. Some of these have become tourist attractions in their own right, but visitors should nevertheless treat these places with the same level of respect one would show at a place of worship. To show respect, do not horseplay, rearrange or move any item, and never, ever take any item, including rocks and sand, with you. * If you visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you will no doubt hear about Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes. An urban legend has it that people who have taken '''volcanic rock''' from Hawai'i, not just the park, have suffered various misfortunes; it is believed that it is the wrath of Pele. In any case, it is illegal to take rocks or other material from a national park. It is also unethical and looked down upon to take any rocks, sand or other natural items from the islands, for religious, moral and environmental reasons alike. Take only pictures, leave only footprints. * '''Native Hawaiians do not identify as Native Americans''', as they are culturally and historically distinct from people indigenous to the continental United States. Just stick to the term "Native Hawaiian". * The '''status of Native Hawaiians''' vis-a-vis the U.S. federal government has become a hot topic, with some Native Hawaiian groups seeking a degree of sovereignty for the Hawaiian people as redress for the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy and U.S. annexation in the 1890s. (Honolulu is home to the only royal palace on U.S. soil.) There is no consensus among Native Hawaiians on what form this sovereignty should take, with some preferring the status quo of ordinary citizenship, some seeking a status similar to that of Native Americans, and some wanting complete independence and secession from the Union. In addition, private and government programs that benefit Native Hawaiians have been called into question via a series of lawsuits that have received extensive coverage in local media. Discussions of Hawaiian sovereignty and programs can arouse a variety of strong opinions (both in support and in opposition) among Hawaii residents of all ethnicities, and the uninitiated visitor would be wise to avoid bringing up these topics in casual conversation. With that in mind, there are some subtle differences in English word usage. When talking with Hawaii residents, be aware of the following differences in word usage to avoid miscommunications. * '''Always refer to the continental United States as "the Mainland" rather than "the States."''' Hawaii has been one of "the States" since 1959, and the Hawaiian sovereignty movement notwithstanding (see above), most Hawaii residents are proud to be part of the United States. This is especially true for Japanese-Americans, many of whose relatives served in the celebrated 100th/442nd unit in World War II. Using the term "the States" (implying that Hawaii is somehow foreign) may be seen as naive at best and condescending at worst. However, don't be surprised if some local people are condescending towards you because you are from the mainland. The "local" vs. "mainland" difference is something local people are only too happy to point out. * '''Residents of Hawaii do not necessarily consider themselves "Hawaiian."''' For instance, when asking a Hawaii resident, "Are you a native Hawaiian?" don't be surprised if his reply is "No, I'm Japanese." (Ask instead, "Were you born and raised in Hawaii?") On the Mainland, for example, "Californian" means any person who lives in (or has ties to) California. However, in Hawaii, the terms "Hawaiian" or "native Hawaiian" are reserved to mean someone who is descended from the indigenous people of Hawaii. This definition even appears in state laws. Because Hawaii is made of people of various ethnicities, someone whose family may have lived in Hawaii for generations may still not be Hawaiian by the above definition. To avoid misunderstanding, it is best to refer to Hawaii residents as such: "Islanders", "locals", or "''kamaʻaina''", unless you know for a fact that they are of native Hawaiian descent. Some Native Hawaiians may attribute accidents caused by nature (such as a landslide at Sacred Falls that killed several people) to the Menehune punishing tourists disrespecting the land. Menehune or not, Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places in the world and its sites deserve our respect. Bottom line: respect the land and the people; there may be more there than meets the eye. ==Connect== ===Post=== Hawaii uses the [https://www.usps.com U.S. Postal Service] with zip codes 96701-96898 and a state code of "HI". Postage in Hawaii uses the same rates as the mainland, and is considered domestic for all postal purposes. First class and priority mail do not experience delays, but ground shipments can be much slower. Private companies FedEx and UPS are present in Hawaii, express shipment times are the same, but add 2-3 days for ground shipments. ===Internet=== Free Wi-Fi is widely available, and can easily be found in most cafes and shopping centers. All major hotels offer free Wi-Fi for guests, and it is available at most airports. Public computers are available at public libraries for library cardholders; visitors may purchase a 3-month library card for $10. ===Phone=== Hawaii's area code is '''808'''. All 10 digits must be dialed when making local calls. When dialing any off-island telephone number, dial 1 + area code + phone number. You must include the 808 area code when calling another island. Long distance charges to the mainland, if any, are usually the same standard domestic rates as it would be if calling within the 48 contiguous states. Check with your phone/long distance company to be sure. ==Go next== As Hawaii is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the state has few nearby neighbors. * '''[[California]]''' - The point of departure for many visitors from the continental United States. [[San Francisco]] is over 150 miles closer than [[Los Angeles]] because it's much further west. A few other California cities also have non-stop flights as well. * '''[[Oceania]]''' - Hawaii can be a stepping off point to explore the many islands of the Pacific as well as the countries of '''[[Australia]]''' and '''[[New Zealand]]'''. * '''[[Japan]]''' and '''[[South Korea]]''' - Hawaii is a popular vacation destination for Japanese and Korean tourists there are non-stop flight options with multiple airlines at competitive fares. Flight times are 8 to 9 hours. {{IsPartOf|Polynesia}} {{isPartOf|United States}} {{usableregion}} {{geo|20.54022|-157.49451|zoom=8}} cdmoyjvo2jfs73uu2gm01f3gk7zohcd 5288930 5288927 2026-06-06T18:40:39Z Anyone150 1516949 Air Asia X and Jetstar no longer fly to Honolulu from their respective countries. 5288930 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Hawaii banner Na Pali Coast.jpg|caption=From a trail along Kauai's Na Pali Coast}} '''Hawaii''' ([[Hawaiian phrasebook|Hawaiian]]: ''Hawaiʻi'', sometimes pronounced ''ha-VAI-ee'' by locals) is the 50th state of the [[United States]]. Situated nearly at the center of the north Pacific Ocean, Hawaii marks the northeast corner of [[Polynesia]]. While it was once a major hub for the whaling, sugar and pineapple industries, it is now economically dependent on tourism and the U.S. military. The natural beauty of the islands continues to be one of Hawaii's greatest assets. [[Honolulu]] is the state's capital, largest city, and cultural hub. [[Hawaiian]] and English are the official languages of Hawaii. ==Islands== Hawaii is an archipelago of over 19 volcanic islands spread over a geological "hot spot" in the Central Pacific. The Pacific plate on which the islands ride moves to the northwest, so in general the islands are older and smaller (due to erosion) as you move from southeast to northwest. There are eight major islands, six of which are open to tourism. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Hawaii regions map.png | regionmapsize=370px | region1name=[[Big Island|Hawaii]] | region1color=#b5d29f | region1items=''Hawaiʻi'' | region1description=Almost always called the '''Big Island''' to avoid confusion, it's the largest of the islands and home to Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa (the largest and one of the most active volcanoes on Earth), '''[[Hawaii Volcanoes National Park]]''', coffee and macadamia nut plantations, working ranches, and even green sand beaches. [[Kailua-Kona]] is the busiest part of the island on the dry, leeward side, and near the mega-resort Kohala Coast area with nearly zero annual precipitation. The saddle road (quite drivable and a must see – despite what rental car companies say) passes between the massive volcanoes and connects [[Kohala]] with [[Hilo]], the largest town on the Big Island and county seat with annual precipitation of more than {{in|300}} per year. Unlike anywhere else on Earth and definitely worth a look. | region2name=[[Oahu]] | region2color=#4f93c0 | region2items=''Oʻahu'' | region2description=Nicknamed "the Gathering Place," Oahu is the most populous and developed island. Its southern shore is home to the city of [[Honolulu]], the state capital and largest city; four out of every five ''kama'aina'' (Hawaii residents) call it home. It is the governmental and commercial center of the state, and [[Honolulu/Waikiki|Waikiki]] Beach is arguably the best known tourist destination in Hawaii. Outside the city are pineapple fields, and the [[North Shore (Oahu)|North Shore]] of Oahu, which is known each winter as the home of some of the largest waves in the world. The USS Arizona National Memorial at [[Pearl Harbor]] is also a very popular visitor destination. | region3name=[[Maui]] | region3color=#d56d76 | region3description=The second largest island in the chain, and home to the 10,023 foot (3,055 m) tall volcanic mountain crater of Haleakala. It is nicknamed "the Valley Isle" for the narrow plain between [[Haleakala National Park|Haleakala]] and the West Maui mountains. On the west side of the island are the resort areas of [[Lahaina]], [[Kaanapali]] and [[Kapalua]], while the south side is home to [[Kihei]], and [[Wailea]]. On the east side is the tiny village of [[Hana]], reached by one of the most winding and beautiful roads in the world. | region4name=[[Kauai]] | region4color=#71b37b | region4items=''Kauaʻi'' | region4description="The Garden Isle" is home to several natural wonders, such as the Wailua River, [[Waimea Canyon]], and the Na Pali Coast. Mount Waialeale is known as one of the rainiest spots in the world. It boasts the most beaches out of the major islands, with the longest being Polihale measuring {{mi|17}} in length. It's similar to the Big Island in that they have the most rural feel out of the 4 major islands. | region5name=[[Molokai]] | region5color=#578e86 | region5items=''Molokaʻi'' | region5description="The Friendly Isle" is the fifth largest and one of the least developed of the main Hawaiian Islands. It is home to Kalaupapa, the place where long term sufferers of Hansen's Disease (also known as leprosy) were forced into quarantine by the Hawaiian government until 1969. It is now known for pristine, breathtaking tropical landscapes, environmental stewardship, rich and deep Hawaiian traditions, and a visitor-friendly culture. | region6name=[[Lanai]] | region6color=#d5dc76 | region6items=''Lānaʻi'' | region6description=Known as "the Pineapple Isle," formerly the world’s largest pineapple plantation owned by Dole Foods; it is now home to two high-end resorts. Just 3,135 people live on its {{mi2|141}}. There are no traffic lights or bakeries. There is just one gas station and three main roads. It is ringed with vast and empty beaches, accessible only by four-wheel drive. | region7name=Niihau{{anchor|Niihau}} | region7color=#8a84a3 | region7items=''Niʻihau'' | region7description=A privately owned island with an entirely Native Hawaiian population. Until 1987, "the Forbidden Isle" was off limits to all but family members and invited guests of the owners. Tourism to the island is limited to helicopter, ATV, and hunting excursions originating on Kauai, and tourists are not permitted to visit the sole inhabited village on the island. There are around 130 Niihau residents and Hawaiian is the official language. They do not have running water, use solar power and live rent-free. | region8name=Kahoolawe{{anchor|Kahoolawe}} | region8color=#d09440 | region8items=''Kahoʻolawe'' | region8description=A former U.S. Navy bombing range, which remains uninhabited. Cleanup efforts to rehabilitate the island are continuing. }} ==Cities== The term "cities" is used here in a broad sense. Hawaii has no organized government below the county level. All communities that would be thought of as cities, towns, and the like in the rest of the US are merely "census-designated places", statistical entities established by the United States Census Bureau. {{Mapframe|21.3|-157.816667|zoom=6|height=|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Honolulu]]|url=|lat=21.3|long=-157.816667}} – state capital and most-populous community *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kahuku]]|url=|lat=21.680278|long=-157.950278}} – on Oahu *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kailua]]|url=|lat=21.3975|long=-157.739444}} – on Oahu *{{marker|type=city|name=Lihue|url=|lat=21.974722|long=-159.365556}} (Hawaiian: ''Līhuʻe'') – on Kauai *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Lahaina]]|url=|lat=20.886111|long=-156.674722}} (Hawaiian: ''Lāhainā'') – on Maui *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kahului]]|url=|lat=20.881667|long=-156.4675}} – on Maui *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Wailuku]]|url=|lat=20.891923|long=-156.502177}} – on Maui *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hilo]]|url=|lat=19.705556|long=-155.085833}} – largest community on the Big Island *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kailua-Kona]]|url=|lat=19.65|long=-155.994167}} – on the Big Island == Other destinations == [[File:Green sea turtle at Punaluu beach, Hawaii.jpg|thumb|250px|Green sea turtle at Punaluʻu Beach, Big Island]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail]]|url=|lat=18.911111|long=-155.681111}} on the Big Island. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Haleakala National Park]]|url=|lat=20.716667|long=-156.166667}} on Maui *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Hawaii Volcanoes National Park]]|url=|lat=19.383333|long=-155.2}} on the Big Island *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kalaupapa National Historical Park]]|url=|lat=21.189444|long=-156.981667}} on Moloka‘i *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park]]|url=|lat=19.421944|long=-155.910278}} on the Big Island *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Honolulu/Western#Pearl Harbor|USS Arizona National Memorial]]|url=|lat=21.365|long=-157.95}} on O‘ahu *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Waimea Canyon]]|url=|lat=20.020278|long=-155.667778}} on Kaua‘i *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Waikiki]]|url=|lat=21.2752|long=-157.8312}} on O‘ahu ==Understand== {{infobox|The name game|The [[:wikipedia:Reef triggerfish|reef triggerfish]] (''Rhinecanthus rectangulus''), the state fish of Hawaii, is known in the Hawaiian language as the ''humu&shy;humu&shy;nuku&shy;nuku&shy;āpuaʻa'', which means "triggerfish with a snout like a pig". It is not the longest Hawaiian fish name, as is often thought; that distinction instead goes to the ''lau&shy;wili&shy;wili&shy;nuku&shy;nukuʻoiʻoi'' ("long-snouted fish shaped like a wiliwili leaf"), the [[:wikipedia:Forcipiger longirostris|forceps butterflyfish]] (''Forcipiger longirostris'').}} The island of Oahu, the most populous and home to the state capital and largest city of Honolulu, is great for people who wish to experience the islands and still keep the conveniences of a large city. Rainforests and hiking trails are minutes from Waikiki Beach, one of the world's best tourist destinations. In the winter, large waves on Oahu's north shore turn the normally sleepy area into the surfing capital of the world. On the other hand, those who wish to experience Hawaii at a slower pace would do well to visit one of the Neighbor Islands (the other, less populated islands around Oahu). All the Neighbor Islands offer opportunities to relax and enjoy the sun and scenery. Many of the natural wonders of the islands are on the Neighbor Islands, from Waimea Canyon on Kauai, to Haleakala on Maui, to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. Numerous waterfalls and rainforests evoke memories of what the islands might have looked like before major corporations set their sights on Hawaii. The road to Hana is one of the most scenic on Maui, as you manipulate many turns overlooking the Eastern coast of the island. It leads you over bridges and past beautiful waterfalls. You can end up at the Oheo Gulch Pools (which are not sacred and there are more than seven), where the hiking is quite the experience. Several islands are recovering from severe and deadly wildfires in 2023. While some fire-affected areas remain closed to the public, visitation continues to be welcomed and encouraged throughout Maui and the islands of Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island. ===History=== Polynesians migrated to, and established communities on, the islands of Hawaii around 800 CE, part of the great expansion of [[In_the_footsteps_of_explorers#Discovering_the_Pacific_islands|Austronesian peoples]] that also populated most other Pacific islands. [[Voyages of James Cook|Captain James Cook]] was the first European visitor to the islands, arriving in 1778. At that time, each island was a separate kingdom. With the support of Western advisors and weapons, Kamehameha I of the island of Hawaii conquered all the islands except Kauai, which acquiesced to his rule in 1810. After Kamehameha II abolished the ''kapu'' (taboo) system, American missionaries came to the islands to spread Christianity. As the Native Hawaiians did not have any concept of owning land, the missionaries became official land owners of many of the islands. Their children became successful businessmen in the Islands and still own entire islands to this day. Pineapple and sugar cane plantations were established, and workers from other countries (in particular Japan, the Philippines, China, Korea and Portugal) were imported as contract laborers. Their descendants also became established as successful professionals. The Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown in 1893 by a group of American businessmen. While the U.S. administration at the time refused to annex the former sovereign nation, in 1898 the United States did annex the islands, which became a territory in 1900, and a state of the United States in 1959. Hawaii also became an important outpost for the U.S. military through the 20th century, and Pearl Harbor was the site of the Japanese attack on December 7, 1941, that resulted in the U.S. joining World War II (see [[Pacific War]]). Today, the military maintains its presence here, with several major military bases on the island of Oahu alone; Pearl Harbor remains the headquarters of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. Over the years, many major retail chains have expanded their presence in Hawaii, making the Islands look more and more like the continental United States, often at the expense of local businesses. Nevertheless, Hawaii remains culturally vibrant. Its population, descended from the Native Hawaiians, the original plantation workers, and more recent arrivals, and in which no one group has a majority, is often cited as an example of multiculturalism at its best. There is a strong commitment to perpetuating Native Hawaiian cultural traditions, and the cultural heritage of Hawaii's many immigrant communities from the Pacific, Asia and Europe. And certainly the environment is conducive to longevity. Hawaii has the longest predicted life expectancies of any U.S. state. ===Climate=== [[File:Rain at the Honolulu Museum of Art.jpg|thumb|You're more likely to be caught in the rain during the wet season (October to March).]] Depending on where you are in Hawaii, the weather can be very different over even short distances. On the same day, on Oahu you might find sun over the beaches in Waikiki and rain only a few miles away in Manoa Valley. Although the islands receive abundant amounts of both sunshine and rain, rain is more likely on the north and east sides of the islands, which face the prevailing northeasterly tradewinds (the "windward" side of the island), as well as the mountain peaks and valleys. The moist tropical air carried by the tradewinds is forced upward by the mountains, resulting in clouds and rain. Rain is less likely on the coastal areas of the "leeward" sides (the south and west sides) of the islands. Although there are no true "seasons" in the islands in the same sense as the rest of the U.S., the climate does go through annual cycles based on rainfall. The "wet" season in Hawaii (cooler temperatures and more rainfall) runs roughly from October to March, and the "dry" season (warmer temperatures and less rainfall) from April to September. There is therefore a higher probability of rain if you visit during the peak of tourist season in late December or January. Hurricane season in the islands runs from June to November. Although Hawaii's relative isolation means that it is affected only rarely by tropical cyclones, one of the storms or its remnants does hit or skirt the Islands every couple of years, such as Hurricanes Iwa and Iniki hitting Kauai in 1982 and 1992 respectively. Overall, Hawaii is warm and balmy — when you step out of the plane you'll immediately notice that the air is soft and humid — and during the summer months the tradewinds provide a pleasant breeze. Daytime temperatures generally range from the low 70s (21°C) in "winter" to the mid 80s (27°C) in "summer". Very rarely does the air temperature exceed 90°F (32°C) even in the hottest part of summer; however, the humidity will make it feel as if it were a few degrees hotter. Ocean temperatures range between 73°F (23°C) degrees in the winter to 78°F (25.5°C) in the summer. There is usually no more than a 20°F (12°C) difference between daytime high and nighttime low temperatures. Consequently, besides your driver's license, credit card, camera, binoculars, and other essentials, it's best to keep your clothes to a minimum... one or two pair of washable slacks/shorts, light shirts, walking shoes, sandals and swim gear. A light jacket or sweater may be necessary depending on when and where you go, but heavy clothing is not normally necessary in most areas. Sunscreen is essential since Hawaii's close proximity to the Equator translates into very strong sun radiation. The suitcase space you save can be used to fill up on island purchases. Although the above is true for most of the Islands, you will find exceptions. A good rule to remember is the higher the elevation, the cooler it will be. Upcountry areas of Kauai, Maui and the Big Island will be cooler during the day, in the 60s F, and much colder at night, in the 40s F. At the highest elevations on Maui and the Big Island, temperatures can drop to near freezing in places like Haleakala National Park, Volcanoes National Park, and Mauna Kea. On the Big Island, both of the largest mountains, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, can receive snowfall year around, mostly in the winter, and can even experience blizzard conditions. There is more of a difference from the day-to-night temperatures in Hawaii than there is summer-to-winter. Given that, there can be more of a difference from lower elevations to higher elevations than either of those, depending on where you are visiting. It's important to research the areas you plan to visit and bring clothing suitable for those conditions. ===Best times to go=== Hawaii's tropical weather tends to be most attractive to tourists when the weather is frightfully cold at home. It's not surprising, then, that the peak tourist season in Hawaii is the Northern Hemisphere winter (mid-December to mid-April). The highest prices tend to be during the Christmas and New Year's season, with a second peak around spring break in March and April. Hawaii's weather is at its best (not too hot and not too cold, with not so much rain) in April, May, September, and October — as it happens, this is also the period when some of the best deals can be had. ===Holidays=== Hawaii observes all the [[United States of America#Holidays|federal holidays]], except Columbus Day. It adds Prince Kuhio Day on March 26th, Good Friday (two days before Western Easter), King Kamehameha Day on June 11, Statehood Day on the 3rd Friday in August, and Election Day (in even-numbered years only, always on a Tuesday, from November 2nd to 8th). Also, some cities and towns that have a large population of federal workers or military personnel might observe Columbus Day anyway. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.gohawaii.com/ Go Hawaii] website ==Talk== {{see also|Hawaiian phrasebook}} '''[[Hawaiian phrasebook|Hawaiian]]''' and '''English''' are the official languages of Hawaii, albeit with English being the predominant language. However, if you encounter someone fluent in Hawaiian or learning the language and speak a few words of Hawaiian you'll instantly find yourself much more appreciated than the average tourist. [[Japanese phrasebook|Japanese]] is common in the tourism industry due to the large number of Japanese tourists who visit, as well as the large Japanese-American community in the state. There are also many communities that speak [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]], Cantonese, Tagalog, Ilocano, Vietnamese, Korean and Samoan. '''Hawaiian Pidgin English''', usually just called '''Pidgin''', is a creole that many locals grew up speaking which incorporates bits of Hawaiian, Chinese, Japanese, Tagalog, Portuguese and many other languages, in addition to its own unique idioms. It has a unique sound and feel. You will most likely hear Pidgin spoken on the street by Islanders in informal situations; it is Hawaii's language of everyday life. There are some subtle differences in English usage in Hawaii. Learning a few words of Hawaiian can be fun and useful. Some signs in Hawaii use Hawaiian words, and most street signs use Hawaiian names. Some useful words include: :; Hello : Aloha. (''ah-LOH-hah'') :; Goodbye : Aloha. (''ah-LOH-hah'') :; love : aloha (''ah-LOH-hah'') (So you indirectly refer to "love" when you first see someone and when they have to go.) :; Thank you. : Mahalo. (''mah-HAH-loh'') (Although this word is found on fast food trash receptacles around the islands, it does ''not'' mean "trash".) :; finished, done : pau (''pow'') :; help/respect : kokua (''koh-KOO-ah'') :; woman : wahine (''vah-HEE-neh'') :; man : kāne (''KAH-neh'') :; child : keiki (''KAY-kee'') :; local resident : kamaʻaina (''kah-mah-EYE-nah'') :; toward the mountains : mauka (''MOW-kah, MOW rhymes with pow'') :; toward the ocean : makai (''mah-KIGH'') :; appetizer : pupu ("POO-poo") :; delicious : ono ("oh-no") ===Shaka=== [[File:Gesture raised fist with thumb and pinky lifted.jpg|thumb|The shaka sign]] The '''shaka''' sign is a [[Gestures|hand gesture]] often used in Hawaii and adopted by surfers. To make a shaka, make a fist with your hand, and extend the thumb and smallest finger. Many people emphasize it by rotating their hand back and forth (along the arm, as if turning a doorknob). There's not an exact meaning to the shaka, but it generally conveys "aloha spirit". Drivers frequently sign the shaka to say "thank you" to another driver. ==Get in== [[File:Hawaje-NoRedLine.jpg|thumb|300px|A satellite view of the Hawaiian Islands and part of the vast expanse of the Pacific]] Foreign travelers entering Hawaii directly from another country are subject to the same entry requirements as for the United States in general. See the ''[[United States#Get in|Get in]]'' section of the [[United States]] article. As Hawaii is one of the 50 United States, flights between Hawaii and other states are considered domestic flights. Therefore, you never need to show a passport or other documentation when arriving in Hawaii from the U.S. Mainland. When leaving Hawaii on a domestic flight, you only need to show [http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/acceptable-ids approved picture ID], which for foreign visitors would typically be a passport. Hawaii has requirements to control the flow of plants and animals. The islands have unique plant and animal life found nowhere else. They also have diseases and pests not found on the U.S. Mainland, and are free of other diseases and pests that are commonly found elsewhere. Because of this, '''Hawaii is an agricultural quarantine zone'''. For travelers, this means three things: # You are required by the Hawaii State Department of Agriculture to fill out a written agricultural declaration while aboard your flight to Hawaii. One declaration form is required per family; the forms will be collected before landing. Any '''fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and the like''' must be declared and inspected by Department of Agriculture personnel at your port of arrival; some items may be prohibited from entering Hawaii. Penalties for non-compliance are stiff. To avoid delays and hassles, '''avoid bringing such items with you.''' (On the reverse side of this declaration is a Hawaii Tourism Authority questionnaire that asks for information about your stay. You are encouraged but not required to complete this questionnaire.) # When leaving Hawaii for the U.S. Mainland, '''all baggage (checked and carry-on) must be inspected''' by U.S. Department of Agriculture inspectors at the airport. With the exception of pineapples and treated papayas (pawpaw), any fresh fruits (grown in Hawaii or elsewhere) are prohibited from leaving Hawaii to control the spread of fruit flies. Consult the [https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/resources/traveler/hawaii/hawaiian_products U.S. Department of Agriculture] for more details. Depending on the airport you leave from and the airline, be prepared to submit to as many as ''three'' X-ray checkpoints on the way to your Mainland flight: having your checked bags X-rayed in the ticket lobby, the TSA security checkpoint, and perhaps a separate agricultural inspection for your carry-on bags on the way to your gate. That last checkpoint will probably have a sign that says, "Yes, you have to do this again...." # As Hawaii is rabies-free, '''pets''' such as dogs and cats are subject to [http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/ai/aqs/animal-quarantine-information-page/ complex and strict quarantine requirements]. The least restrictive provisions (direct airport release or 5-day maximum quarantine) require at least two rabies vaccinations at least thirty days apart and at least 90 days before arrival, the latest of which must be current; microchip implantation; and a negative rabies blood test within the last three years, but at least 120 days before arrival. Pets failing to meet these requirements will be subject to quarantine for up to 120 days. '''Hawaii does not observe Daylight Saving Time,''' which means that the time difference between Hawaii and most of North America varies by the time of year. Hawaii is two time zones behind the U.S. West Coast, thereby accounting for a ''three''-hour time difference during DST for most states. Travelers from Asia, Australia, and New Zealand should keep the International Date Line in mind when doing time conversions and flight reservations. Hawaii is 19 hours behind Japan, making it five hours ahead of Japan by the clock, but a day behind on the calendar. Most flights to Hawaii that leave Asia in the evening will arrive in the morning of the ''same'' day, and return flights that leave Hawaii in the morning will arrive in the early afternoon of the ''next'' day. ===By plane=== [[File:HonoluluAirportWelcomeSign.jpg|thumb|300px|Hawaii welcomes you!]] {{see also|Flying in the United States}} Most flights from the mainland U.S. and almost all international flights land in [[Honolulu]] on the island of [[Oahu]]. From here, passengers destined for a neighbor island will connect to an interisland flight (see By Plane in Get Around below). Nonstop service from the mainland is also available to [[Kahului]] on [[Maui]], [[Kona]] and [[Hilo]] on the [[Big Island]], and [[Lihue]] on [[Kauai]]. Kona also serves a limited number of non-stop flights from Japan, and seasonal service from Canada. Depending on the airline, nonstop flights to Honolulu leave from most major gateway airports on the West Coast (as well as some smaller ones), as well as many major airports in the Midwest and East Coast. The flight from [[Los Angeles]] or [[San Francisco]] takes about 5 hours, which is comparable to a flight between the West and East Coasts of the contiguous United States. Thus, a flight from [[New York City|New York]] will take about 10½ hours. [https://www.qantas.com] and [https://www.hawaiianairlines.com Hawaiian Air] connect [[Honolulu]] to Sydney in [[Australia]]. All Nippon Airways (ANA), Delta, Hawaiian, Japan Airlines, ZipAir, and United connect Honolulu to [[Tokyo#By plane|Tokyo]] while Japan Airlines offer direct flights to additional Japanese cities. Asiana, Korean and Air Premia offer direct flights to/from [[Seoul]]. Only carrier to [[Manila]] is Philippine Airlines. ===By boat=== There are a few trans-Pacific cruises to Hawaii that leave from ports on the West Coast. On an 18-day, {{convert|5000|mi|km|adj=on}} round-trip cruise between Hawaii and the West Coast, about 12 of those days will be at sea, with nothing on the horizon and nothing to do except what is on the ship. Even if you are an avid cruiser, you may get more Hawaii bang from your cruise buck by flying to Honolulu and taking a seven-day interisland cruise that starts and leaves from there. Pacific Ocean cruises to and from California depart for the most part from mid-fall to mid-spring. (See [[#Get around|Get around: By boat]] for more info on the regular cruises from the Mainland.) There are a few [http://www.freightercruises.com freighter services], but if you are an American citizen embarking in the United States and wishing to travel to Hawaii then you cannot travel this way on a foreign-flagged ship due to the U.S. Passenger Vessel Services Act of 1886. Instead, try cruises from Ensenada, [[Baja California]] or Vancouver, [[British Columbia]]. It is also worthwhile to troll marinas on the West Coast of the contiguous United States, leaving your contact info and posting to online discussion boards for people planning to spend around a month sailing from the mainland. Ensure that any expectation of compensation including work duties, food, supplies, and damaged equipment is covered in writing so everything is clear. Storms and days stuck becalmed are to be expected. ==Get around== ===By plane=== Air travel is, by and large, compulsory for traveling within the state. Travelers can choose from either a scheduled or unscheduled air carrier. Three scheduled inter-island air carriers, '''[https://www.hawaiianairlines.com/ Hawaiian Airlines]''', '''[http://www.mokuleleairlines.com Mokulele Airlines]''', and '''[https://www.southwest.com Southwest Airlines]''', provide set scheduled flights between the islands. You can save money and time by planning "triangle routes" that arrive in Hawaii on one island and leave on another, avoiding the cost of a return inter-island flight. Scheduled flight times run anywhere from 20 minutes to one hour, and can usually be purchased a day or two before departure, although this may increase the cost of traveling. Visitors wanting to fly according to their own demand (as opposed to scheduled times) should consider flying on an unscheduled air carrier also known as '''air taxi''' service. Contact the air carrier directly and arrange a time and place for pick up. '''[http://www.iolaniair.com Iolani Air]{{Dead link|date=November 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' and '''[http://www.bigislandair.com Big Island Air]''' are two such air carriers. The Hawaiian islands are populated with airstrips that scheduled carriers do not service. In these instances air taxi companies may be the only means of traveling. Hunters and campers with cumbersome gear planning trips to remote island regions, as well as visitors wishing to "island hop", should consider air taxi service. ===By boat=== In general, ferry services between the islands are few and far between, and many are not a practical means of transportation. Charter boats sail and motor between some islands, especially the [[Maui]]-[[Molokai]]-[[Lanai]] area. Crossing the channels between islands can be extremely rough going. A few charter companies specialize in having boats delivered interisland and can meet you at your destination. A company offering ferries is [http://go-lanai.com Expeditions] (Maui–Lana'i $30 one way for adults and $20 for children). '''[https://www.ncl.com Norwegian Cruise Lines]''' operates a [[cruise ships|cruise ship]], ''Pride of America'', between the islands, embarking and disembarking in [[Honolulu]]. Inquire at nearby marinas about joining the crew of a local sailboat or yacht out for a cruise. ===By bus=== On Oahu there is an excellent public transportation system on '''[http://www.thebus.org TheBus]''' for bus travel between Honolulu, Waikiki, Kaneohe, and the surrounding suburban and rural areas of Oahu. You can buy a booklet called "TheBus" at a local [http://www.abcstores.com/ ABC Store] giving route information on how to get around the island or online on [http://www.thebus.org TheBus.org] or download "DaBus2" app on a mobile device. Public transportation is limited on the neighboring islands, so renting a car makes sense. There are some bus services available within and between populated areas on the other islands. They are: *'''[http://www.heleonbus.hawaiicounty.gov Hele-On]{{Dead link|date=April 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (Hilo, Kona, Waimea and around the big island of Hawai'i) *'''[http://www.kauai.gov/Transportation Kaua'i Bus]''' (Kauai) *'''[http://www.mauicounty.gov/index.aspx?NID=605 Maui Bus]''' (Kahului, Wailuku, Lahaina, and other places in western Maui. No service to the Haleakala NP in the eastern part of the island). No regular bus services on Molokai or Lanai. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/hawaii/ here]. ===By car=== {{seealso|Driving in the United States}} {{infobox|Interstates? In ''Hawaii''?|[[File:I-H1.svg|125px|right]] Visitors to Oahu will notice something vaguely familiar about Honolulu's freeways: they are marked with the same familiar red, white, and blue Interstate highway signs as on the Mainland, except with an H as part of the number. Many a visitor has wondered why Hawaii has interstate highways when you can't even drive between islands, let alone between Hawaii and the rest of the United States. The answer lies in the full name of the Interstate highway system: The National System of Interstate and '''Defense''' Highways. Oahu has military bases from four major branches of the military, including Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, and Schofield Barracks, and the routes of the Hawaii interstates pass by or terminate at one or more of these bases. In short, they're as much designed for transporting troops as commuters. Even on the mainland, it's not unheard of for a non-auxiliary Interstate not to cross state lines; several Interstate highways also run entirely within a single state. Alaska and Puerto Rico also have highways funded as Interstates, although they're not signed as such.}} If you want to take your car to Hawaii, it will either need to be amphibious or freighted by ship with very high cost, making this infeasible unless you plan a long-term stay in Hawaii. However, Hawaii is the only state that honors all other U.S. state vehicle licenses until they expire, provided you apply for a permit within 10 days of the car's arrival. (Incidentally, Hawaii is also the only state that does not require intended residents to exchange their out-of-state driver's licenses.) Car rentals should be booked as soon as possible since, as elsewhere in the US, the price charged is based on a supply/demand basis. The exception is Waikiki where you will not need a car on a permanent basis so just rent a car the day before you want one. Some hotels may charge you for car parking; check with your hotel for parking fees before you book your car. Gasoline, while nowhere near the prices charged in Europe, is more expensive in Hawaii than in many areas of the Mainland. There was a time when gas prices in Hawaii were much more expensive than other states. Nowadays, however, average prices are comparable to San Francisco and Los Angeles, and are sometimes below those cities. Expect to pay about 20-25% more than the average price on the Mainland for gasoline in Honolulu. Neighbor Island prices can be as much as 10-15% above that. The major highways are referred to by number (H-1, H-2, and H-3; they're never called "I-H-1" etc.), but most locals refer to other roads not by number but by name, and will likely not understand if you ask for a road by number. For example, you would never hear someone refer to Kalanianaole Highway as "route 72" or "highway 72." If you ask for directions, they will likely not be given in terms of compass direction. Instead you will probably receive relative directions based on landmarks. Common landmarks include '''''mauka''''' (toward the mountains), '''''makai''''' (toward the ocean), and on Oahu, '''''ʻEwa''''' (toward Ewa Beach, roughly west) and '''Diamond Head''' (toward Diamond Head, roughly east). So a query for a grocery store might be met with "go two blocks ''makai'', turn right on King and it's half a mile up on the ''mauka'' side of the street." ===By moped, scooter or motorcycle=== Scooters are also an excellent alternative for getting around the islands. Rental rates are fairly cheap: about $50/day, or $135 for three days, which you can sometimes haggle down. The scooters are also fun to ride and are cheap on gas (typical mileage is 60&ndash;100&nbsp;mpg, or 2.3&ndash;3.9&nbsp;L/100&nbsp;km). You can ride them anywhere except on limited-access highways (of which there aren't many in Hawaii, and there's always a surface street that's probably more scenic). Scooters only require a valid license for driving a car, not a motorcycle license. The driver must be over 15 (legally out-of-state license aren't acceptable unless the driver is 18, but this is rarely enforced). It's illegal for two or more persons to ride a moped, although this may not be enforced in more remote areas such as [[Big Island]]. Helmets are not mandatory, but if you want one (which is always a good idea) you should be able to rent one with your scooter, possibly for free. When you get your scooter, inspect it first, as some are in bad repair: make sure the headlights and turn signals are working, and insist on taking it for a quick spin around the block to check that the acceleration, transmission, brakes, and steering are okay. If anything is amiss, insist on a replacement scooter, or walk away from the deal and find another rental company. Scooters that can go over 30&nbsp;mph or have an engine larger than 49&nbsp;cc are classified the same as motorcycles, so you need a [http://www.city-data.com/forum/hawaii/947879-question-mopeds-scooters-vespas-etc.html#post13729771 motorcycle license]. Motorcycle rentals are easy to find. On most islands, you can also rent out Harley-Davidson motorcycles. ===By bicycle=== Depending on where you travel a bicycle can be a great form of transportation if you keep a few things in mind. Some roads are very narrow and winding which may create a hazard when sharing the road with cars. There are also some steep hills as Hawaii is a series of mountains erupting from the sea; without a topo map an apparent shortcut may require a challenging hill while a long loop may be flat and avoid large terrain getting you there quicker. If you stay near the beach there is the salty sea air and rain which will eventually rust a bicycle which is kept outside, keep on top of chain and part maintenance and cleaning to prevent damage. Honolulu has a [https://www.honolulu.gov/bicycle/bicycleeducation/bicycle-registration.html bicycle registration law]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} requiring a tag for $15, and bicycles without registration can be impounded by police. The law and common sense require a white front and red rear light when operating a bicycle during twilight and night. Many airlines charge an oversized luggage fee for most full size bikes even when boxed; some tour-capable folding bikes can be fit inside a standard suitcase, but most public transportation does not allow bicycles at all. == See == == Do == <!-- do not list individual businesses here - those should go in city articles. instead provide an overview of Hawaiian activities with pointers to the island(s) on which they most commonly occur --> The Hawaiian islands offer a vast number of activities. Hiking and eco tours are popular on most islands, with opportunities for horseback riding, ATV, air tours, and other methods of exploring the landscape. Museums and historical sites such as Pearl Harbor are also to be found throughout the islands. Cultural activities such as the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu also make for interesting day-long activities. Oahu is famous for Pearl Harbor tours, but also popular are '''shark dives''' in cages, Waikiki snorkel tours as well as around Oahu Tours where you will see all the major highlights of Oahu including Diamond Head, the North Shore and '''Dole Plantation''' where you can sample menu items made from fresh picked pineapples. Maui is the location for '''humpback [[whale watching]]''' from December 15 to April 15 each year as the massive humpbacks migrate to Hawaii's warm waters to bear their calves. Also famous from Maui is the '''Molokini Crater''' which is a partially submerged volcano crater that you can snorkel at. Kauai is untamed and beautiful. It has been featured in many major motion pictures over the past two decades (''Hook'', ''Jurassic Park'', ''Tropic Thunder'', ''The Descendants'', ''Avatar'', and many more). See this island by land or by air to take in the true beauty of this island. Oh and just be ready to see the roaming Roosters that inhabit the island. You can take a land tour or fly over the incredible '''huge volcano''' on a helicopter tour of the Big Island. Doors-off flights allow you to feel the heat from the volcano, an amazingly unique experience. Also on the Big Island you have the rare opportunity to '''swim with wild dolphins''', not captive ones. Hawaii is best known for its '''beaches and water activities'''. '''Surfing''' is practically a religion in Hawaii, and '''scuba diving''' and '''snorkeling''' opportunities exist nearly everywhere. In addition, jet skiing, parasailing and kayaking are available in tourist areas. Since many of the islands' tours and excursions are interacting with nature in some way, it's important to look into each and make sure they are respecting the islands. There are many endangered animals and plants, and because of this there are many laws protecting them. An example would be tour boats that have been fined for chasing dolphins or whales in order to please the tourists, which is illegal and highly disrespectful. Govern yourself the same way while you visit and remember to "kokua na `aina," or respect the land. ==Buy== As in the rest of the United States, U.S. dollars are the local currency. There are plenty of banks, ATMs, and money change offices in all cities. However, none of the major American and foreign banks have branches in Hawaii, so the banking sector is served exclusively by local banks, the largest of which are Bank of Hawaii, First Hawaiian Bank, and American Savings Bank. ATMs are scarcer on the North Shore of Oahu and other rural areas. Because Hawaii is an island state and transporting goods to Hawaii is more difficult, the prices for most goods are more expensive. Under federal law, most goods manufactured overseas in Asia must bypass Hawaii and go directly to the West Coast of the United States. They are brought to Hawaii on another ship, and the prices must include that cost of that second ship. Hawaii has a 4.166% General Excise Tax (GET), which many retailers pass through like a sales tax on their receipts. The City and County of Honolulu adds an additional amount, making the tax rate on Oahu 4.712%. The GET is not a sales tax because it is imposed on all business receipts in Hawaii. It is another reason why retail prices in Hawaii are so high, because they must include the GET paid by a Hawaii-based manufacturer, wholesaler, or distributor and passed through to the retailer. ===Clothing=== Other than the stereotypical grass skirt (which is not generally worn in Hawaii except by hula dancers), no pieces of clothing are more associated with the Islands than the aloha shirt and the ''muʻumuʻu''. The ever-present '''aloha shirt''' comes in a wide variety of designs. On one end, there are the brightly colored, tourist-oriented, polyester aloha shirts that many tourist-oriented stores throughout the Islands carry. On the other end of the spectrum are '''reverse print''' aloha shirts, which have become standard business attire among businessmen in Hawaii, in the same way that the business suit is on the mainland. These aloha shirts are usually cotton-polyester blend with the design printed on the ''inside'' of the shirt, resulting in muted colors that are considered businesslike in Hawaii. This kind of aloha shirt can be found in department stores. For women, the '''''muʻumuʻu''''' (English: "muumuu") is a long Hawaiian dress, usually made of cotton, that hangs loosely from the shoulder. A special note on shoes: the lightweight sandal commonly referred to on the Mainland as a "flip-flop" or "thong" is known as a '''"slipper"''' or '''"slippa"''' in Hawaii. Using the mainland term will get you a quizzical look from locals. Call them by their island name and they will instantly know what you are talking about. ===Made in Hawaii=== Locally made bath & body products are popular souvenirs. The islands feature some of the most refreshing fragrances, which are featured in Hawaiian shampoos, body lotions, soaps, oils, incense and floating candles. ==Eat== Contemporary food in Hawaii, like the language and popular culture, is a medley of traditional Hawaiian, Portuguese, American, and Asia-Pacific flavors. Pacific "fusion" cuisine was largely invented in Hawaii. Well-known local chefs include Sam Choy, Alan Wong, Russell Siu, Roy Yamaguchi, and George "Chef Mavro" Mavrothalassitis. Seafood is, of course, fresh and tasty. Local beef comes from ranches on [[Maui]] and coffee is grown on the [[Big Island]] and [[Kauai]]. Tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango, bananas, guavas, and papaya, as well as fresh sugar cane, can be bought in most corner stores (although you may be surprised to learn that many of those fruits are now imported from distant locales such as the [[Philippines]] and [[Brazil]]). One of the most common ways that local food is served is in the form of '''plate lunch''', usually meat or fish with two scoops of rice and macaroni salad. It's always a good deal at any lunch wagon, mall, or outside food court. [http://www.hawaiianbarbecue.com L&L Drive Inn] and [http://www.zippys.com/ Zippy's]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} are probably the most widely distributed chain of plate lunch spots in the Hawaiian islands. Branches of L&L are in some locations on the Mainland as well (as L&L Hawaiian Barbecue). Another way of enjoying local food when roaming around the island is to keep an eye out for the converted trucks or vans that are parked in their regular spots in gas station parking lots, some parks and a variety of places on the island. These '''lunch wagons''' offer plate lunches, are popular with the locals and provide great meals (on plastic plates) at very reasonable prices. There is no reason to fear them; they are very common and popular. '''Food carts''' provide other kinds of cuisine besides the standard plate lunch. You may be surprised to find that even the McDonald's menu is different. '''Saimin''', a Hawaiian noodle soup inspired by Chinese noodle soups, is a permanent menu item, and was the first regional food to be served in a McDonald's. Another favorite is the breakfast platter at Hawaiian McD's, which features Portuguese sausage, Spam, eggs, and steamed rice, sometimes with fresh pineapple. (Contrary to its poor reputation on the mainland, '''Spam''' has traditionally been very popular in Hawaii and is even used in various adapted ethnic dishes.) Also, red '''fruit punch''' is a non-carbonated fruit-flavored alternative to Coke or Sprite at the soda fountain. Perhaps the best setting for tourists to enjoy traditional Hawaiian food is at a '''luau''' (''lū‘au''), a traditional Hawaiian feast. Tourists can find luaus at various locations in the Islands, including many of the major resort hotels. At a modern luau, traditional Hawaiian favorites are served as a ''pūpū'' (buffet of appetizers and small main dishes, similar in size to Spanish ''tapas'', which gave its name to the American Chinese "pupu platter"), along with Hawaiian music, hula, and other Polynesian entertainment. The downside is that prices vary in the expensive range; expect to pay between $50 and $90 per adult and about half that per child. Dishes that are often found at luaus include: * '''''Lomi'' salmon''', salted salmon hand-mixed (''lomi-lomi'' means "to massage") with tomatoes, onions, and pepper; like an island salsa * '''''Kālua'' pig''', pork wrapped in banana leaves and steamed inside an ''imu'' (ground boiler); similar to pulled pork * '''''Pipi kāula''''', Hawaiian style beef jerky * '''''Poi''''', ground and boiled taro root paste * '''''Laulau''''', pork and butterfish (black cod) wrapped in ti plant leaves then steamed * '''''Lū‘au''''', taro leaves baked with coconut cream and usually octopus (this dish inspired the modern name of the Hawaiian feast) * '''''Haupia''''', a gelatin-like dessert prepared from thickened coconut milk; famous for being a very mild laxative Other local dishes include favorites such as the following: [[File:SPAM musubi.jpg|thumb|250px|The ubiquitous spam musubi]] * '''''Poke''''', chopped and seasoned raw fish (like a tartare), eaten by itself or over sushi rice. * '''''ʻAhi''''', yellowfin tuna, excellent as ''sashimi'' (Japanese style sliced raw fish) or as ''poke''. * '''''Mahimahi''''', dolphin fish, served as a steak, sandwich, or in almost-raw thin strips. * '''''Ono''''', a type of fish also known as wahoo. Not coincidentally, the name resembles the Hawaiian word for "delicious," ''ʻono''. * '''Shave ice''', an island version of snow cones made from finely shaved ice, comes in lots of ''ʻono'' flavors. Order your shave ice with azuki beans and/or a scoop of ice cream. * '''Saimin''', Hawaii's version of a Chinese noodle soup. * '''Malasada''', fried bread rolled in plenty of sugar, a sort of Portuguese donut. Often sold at special events. * '''Manapua''', local name for a popular type of Chinese dim sum otherwise known as ''char siu bao''. Cured sweet pork wrapped in soft white bread. * '''Spam musubi''', an unorthodox variant of Japanese riceballs (''musubi''), composed of salted rice formed into a rectangular shape and topped with spam, wrapped in seaweed. Popular enough to be sold in every Hawaiian 7-Eleven. * '''Chicken/pork adobo''', Filipino dish widely offered and appreciated in Hawaii, where the meat is marinated and then cooked in vinegar and soy sauce. * '''Loco moco''', a local specialty consisting of a hamburger patty on rice, topped with over easy egg and gravy. Excellent with tabasco sauce. Can be eaten for breakfast or lunch. * '''Chicken katsu''', fried chicken cutlet with savory sauce. Usually served with rice and mac salad. If you are roaming the island away from tourist areas, you may find restaurants are scarce. Many of the numerous golf courses have dining rooms open to the public that offer great meals. They seem to welcome the non-golfer. For specific places at which to eat, see the individual island or city articles. Be sure to check the coupon books that are available at display stands for meal specials. Popular local snacks are also heavily influenced by the large mix of cultures present in Hawaii, primarily the Chinese and Japanese. Since many of these snacks are unique to Hawaii and cannot be found anywhere else, consider purchasing a few bags from any grocery store to bring on your travels. A large portion of local snacks fall under the category known as "Crack Seed" which refers to a variety of pickled, candied, and dehydrated fruit snacks of Chinese origin. The most popular iterations of Crack Seed snacks are: *'''Li hing mui''' - Salted dried plums that are especially popular with the younger locals. Li Hing Mui is known for its unique sweet, salty, and sour flavor. It is commercially sold either with the plum seed intact or seedless and also in a powdered form that can be sprinkled onto arare, fruits, gummy bears, and many other snacks. *'''Pickled or dried fruits''' - Mangoes are usually dehydrated for a sweet snack or kept wet and flavored with Li Hing Mui powder. Lemon and orange peels are also salted and dried for a salty/sour snack. Other popular local snacks include: *'''Arare''' - Japanese rice crackers flavored with soy sauce that come in many different shapes and sizes. Arare is commonly paired with dried seaweed, li hing mui powder, or popcorn. Also commonly referred to as "Kaki Mochi" or "Mochi Crunch". *'''Dried Seafood''' - Dried cuttlefish and octopus strips, known by their Japanese names "Ika" and "Tako", are very popular snacks. Tuna, or "Ahi", is also dried and made into Ahi Jerky. *'''Macadamia nuts''' - Originally brought over from [[Australia]], where they are a part of Aboriginal cuisine, but first grown commercially in Hawaii. Dry roasted macadamia nuts are commercially sold plain, with flavoring, or in chocolate. Macadamia nuts in snack form are more popular with tourists than with locals and are usually given as gifts. If you would rather catch your own, fishing in the ocean or gathering in tidepools is free and requires no permit. Fresh-water fishing, however, does require a license. ==Drink== '''Beer''': there are a number of excellent local brewpubs in Hawaii. Mehana, Sam Choy's, Honu, Waimea Brewing Company, Liz's Pub, Keoki's and Kona Brewing Company all brew beer in Hawaii or brew it on the mainland and ship it to the islands. The largest of the group is Kona Brewing, which has won several national awards and runs two brew pub restaurants in the islands (one in Kailua Kona, the other in Hawaii Kai on Oahu). '''Cocktails''': The '''mai tai''' is said to have been invented in California, but it's long since been adopted by Hawaii and is well worth trying there. ==Sleep== '''Resorts:''' There are many resorts in Hawaii. Waikiki is famous for its beach and nightlife but is an urban neighborhood, so not necessarily what you might think of as a resort. There are other resorts on the Kona Coast of the Big Island, such as in Waikoloa Village, in Maui, or at Turtle Bay on the northern tip of the Big Island, where there is a resort that is widely known for its sunsets. '''AirBnB:''' It is illegal to list or use AirBnBs outside of tourist districts due to laws on minimum rental periods. Both the person staying and the person listing their unit can be fined up to $10,000 per day they violate this law. ==Learn== Tourists who want to get a taste of Hawaiian culture can sign up for classes in hula, surfing and lei-making at most tourist destinations. There are also a number of cultural and historical centers on [[Oahu]] well worth your time, such as the '''Bishop Museum''' and '''Iolani Palace'''. If you have the money, the time and the inclination, the '''Polynesian Cultural Center''' provides a window into Polynesian culture. As its name implies, the Polynesian Cultural Center covers not just Hawaii but also the cultures of Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Easter Island and the Maori people of New Zealand. The outer islands also have destinations such as Maui Center for Culture and the Arts and the Big Island has the Hilo Art Museum. the Lyman House Museum and the Pacific Tsunami Museum as well as the University of Hawaii's ʻImiloa Astronomy Center and Kula Kai Caverns. For those on a budget, there are many activities you can do on any island that are free. All state parks are free to visit and even some National Parks. When the National Parks are not free, most find them very affordable. Hiking, beaches, snorkeling and other like activities are always free when on public land and there are no private beaches. On the Big Island there are many free ranger programs at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical park and other locations. At the Visitor Information Station on Mauna Kea, you can stay any night of the year between 6PM and 10PM and enjoy a free astronomy tour including large and small telescopes for you to look through. Some hiking and other activities are in National Parks, like Volcanoes so they are at cost, of course. ==Work== The unemployment rate in Hawaii is generally below the average unemployment rate for the country as a whole in Mar 2019, 2.8% vs 3.8%). Hawaii is not an easy place to legally find casual work for non-US work permit holders. To apply for a local government job, by law you must be a Hawaii resident. ==Stay safe== Theft is a big problem in cities as well as beaches and parks. If you are camping on a beach, keep bags locked in a car (but don't assume that they are safe in the trunk, especially if you are driving a rental) and keep valuables in a hidden money belt. Although Hawaii is generally considered relatively safe, it does have some violent crime. Consequently, women should not walk alone in unlit areas. Although Honolulu has one of the lowest violent crime rates of metro areas in the U.S., use your common sense. Stay smart and act as if you were in your own home city: lock doors, lock cars, and don't leave valuables lying around. Some campgrounds now require a permit (this has the effect of moving homeless people away from tourist areas). Be sure to apply for a reserved area and have your permit even in free camping areas especially around Honolulu. Any of the beaches are vulnerable to pickpockets and thieves who break into cars. If you are using a rental car, it is advised you buy a bumper sticker or two to make it seem like you are a local. Paradoxically, keeping the car windows open will prevent break-ins and car damage, as the locals will think there is nothing of worth in the car. As a rule of thumb, do not bring anything to the beach you do not plan on using. If you must bring money, bring a friend to keep it safe. If you are planning a hike in the mountains, monitor local weather reports carefully and use extreme caution in case of rain. Rain is more likely in the mountains, and flash flooding can occur near stream beds with little or no warning. Unsuspecting hikers can drown and be swept downstream. ===Civil defense sirens=== [[File:Pāhoehoe and Aa flows at Hawaii.jpg|thumb|Pāhoehoe lava and ʻaʻā flows on the Big Island, as seen from a helicopter]] Although it is rather rare, the threat of a natural disaster can occur at any time in Hawaii, sometimes with little or no warning. Besides the occasional destructive lava flow on the Big Island and occasionally destructive hurricanes (see Weather in Understand above), Hawaii can also experience [[earthquakes|tsunamis and earthquakes]]. In 1960 the Great Chilean Earthquake (magnitude 9.5) generated a destructive tsunami that devastated Hilo on the Big Island, killing 61 people. In 1992, Hurricane Iniki made a direct hit on Kauai, killing six and causing $1.8 billion in damage. In 2006, most of the state was affected by a magnitude 6.7 quake off Kailua-Kona. No casualties were reported, but it caused extensive property damage and power outages of up to 14 hours on Oahu. Hawaii has a highly developed civil defense system. High-pitched civil defense sirens are tested statewide at 11:45AM on the first working day of each month unless hazardous weather is occurring. Two tones may be tested: a steady alert siren used in the event of imminent natural disaster such as a tsunami, and a wailing tone that oscillates in pitch from high to low, to be used in the event of confirmed, imminent enemy attack. If you hear the '''steady''' tone siren go off at any other time, turn on the nearest radio or television set for emergency information. In the unlikely event you hear the '''wailing''' tone go off at any time, '''seek shelter immediately''' and stay there, and stay tuned to radio or TV for further instructions. ===Natural disasters=== If a [[Cyclones|hurricane or tropical storm]] is expected, you will usually have at least several days' notice, and local media will pass on advisories, watches, and warnings from the National Weather Service. Your hotel will likely have emergency plans; check with them for advice and stay indoors during the high winds and rain that accompany a tropical cyclone. If a [[tsunami]] is expected, you will only have several hours' notice. Either evacuate coastal areas subject to inundation (this includes most of Waikiki), or failing that, find the nearest concrete high-rise hotel and go to the third story or above. '''Follow the instructions of police and first responders at all times. If ordered to evacuate an area, do so quickly.''' ==Stay healthy== '''Hospitals''' in Hawaii meet U.S. standards for care, and can be found in the urban areas of each island. The hospitals in Honolulu are larger and have the most advanced equipment; the hospitals on the neighbor islands provide general care. There is a shortage of specialists on the Neighbor Islands. Depending on where you are and how serious your condition is, you may have to be medically evacuated to Honolulu for treatment. All tourists, including U.S. citizens, should have [[travel insurance]] with medi-evac coverage, which can get you back home, if needed. The main tourist areas of each island have walk-in '''urgent care clinics''' where you can receive non-emergency treatment for whatever ails you. Some clinics even make hotel room calls. Check with the local phone book or your hotel. In Waikiki, try '''Doctors on Call''' (+1 808-971-6000). The clinic is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. '''Pharmacies''' can also be found in most major shopping areas. Mainland customers of CVS who need assistance with prescriptions should look for the nearest branch of '''Longs Drugs''' (the former pharmacy chain had such high brand recognition in Hawaii that CVS chose to retain the brand on its Hawaii locations). '''Walgreens''' has opened numerous locations. If you go hiking in the backcountry or go swimming in freshwater pools in Hawaii, you risk catching '''leptospirosis.''' Leptospirosis generally causes flu-like symptoms; in rare cases it can be fatal; the incubation period can be from 2-30 days after exposure. Do not swim in freshwater pools if you have open sores; see a doctor if you develop flu-like symptoms after hiking or swimming. If you do not have open sores and swim in these areas, the best way to avoid Leptospirosis or any bacteria is to never drink any natural water, no matter how clean it looks. If you are backpacking and this is a must, remember to bring the needed water filters and/or iodine pills to treat your water. Be sure to have travel '''health insurance'''. If you are a U.S. resident with private health insurance, you should consult your insurance carrier to determine what co-payments apply and to what extent your insurance is accepted in Hawaii by doctors and hospitals in the event you need health care while on your trip. However, if you get a job in Hawaii - even a part-time job - you will receive health insurance by state law (presuming that you are a U.S. citizen or have a green card and are therefore legally eligible to work). See ''Stay healthy'' in [[United States of America]] for more information. If you have respiratory problems, be aware of '''volcanic smog (also known as vog)'''. Vog is formed when sulfur dioxide gas from Kilauea mixes with sunlight, water, and dust particles to form a haze made up primarily of sulfur compounds. Normally the northeasterly trade winds blow vog away from the rest of the islands. Southeasterly winds (also known as Kona winds in Hawaii), however, can blow vog toward the other islands. Vog can be a nearly constant presence on the Big Island. While many people in Hawaii can experience symptoms related to vog, it can especially affect those with asthma or other chronic respiratory illness. If you have a respiratory condition and plan to visit the Big Island, consult your doctor for advice. When going to the beach or swimming, always wear '''sunscreen lotion or sun guard''' to protect your skin from burns, as well as hats, covers and sunglasses. The islands are far closer to the equator than most tourists understand, so even if the weather is cooler, the sun's power is still more intense. ==Cope== ===Dress=== Hawaii's laid-back reputation extends to dress: with ideal weather year-round in most places, shorts are always appropriate around the islands. Long pants are fine, too, and you will still be quite comfortable. You ''do'' normally need to wear a shirt in public; going bare-chested is for the beach, although businesses near the beach are tolerant of it, particularly outside of the city. Sandals and flip-flops are always fine for casual wear, but they're always called ''slippers'' or ''slippa'' by locals. Going barefoot off the beach is not common in the cities, but again, businesses tolerate it to some extent. Hawaii has many of the Earth's climates on each small island. Research the locations you plan to visit and dress accordingly, as some areas like Volcanoes National Park or Mauna Kea on the Big Island, or Haleakala National Park on Maui will leave you miserable in shorts and tank tops, as they may have below freezing weather, drenching rain and even snow. For the beach or pool, boardshorts or swimming trunks for men are the most popular, though with so many visitors from Asia, speedos are welcome too. Female toplessness is legal in Hawaii, if uncommon. Swimming nude is illegal, although there are a few isolated beaches on each island where people risk it. Unless you're spending the day trekking from beach to beach, '''save beachwear for the beach''' and wear regular clothes. Businessmen in Hawaii forgo suits and wear slacks with muted aloha shirts. As a visitor, you would be overdressed in a suit; a dress shirt (with or without a tie) and slacks would be fine. If you do wear an aloha shirt for business, pair it with khaki pants or slacks, socks, and dress shoes or loafers, and button all but the top button while at the office. Normally aloha shirts are worn untucked and without an undershirt, but those aspects are up to you. The business aloha shirt extends also to dressing up for fine dining, entertainment, and even church; some preachers wear business aloha shirts for church services. As a visitor, just put on a collared shirt, shoes (such as casual loafers), and, depending on the restaurant you're going to, either shorts or slacks. Ties and jackets will never be necessary. ==Respect== In general, American standards of etiquette (see ''[[United States of America#Respect|Respect]]'' in [[United States of America]]) apply in Hawaii. Hawaii does however have certain cultural differences, owing to the Native Hawaiians and the large population of Asians and people of Asian descent. * As is the custom in many Asian countries, always '''remove your footwear''' when entering the home of an island resident, if so invited. Shoes and sandals are generally left on the front porch or just inside the front door. * '''Hawaiian culture''' should be respected and travelers should be sensitive to the state's rich cultural heritage and diversity — and the fact that the tourist experience of Hawaiian culture may only scratch the surface. For instance, there are many ''heiau'' (temples) in the Islands, where the ancient Hawaiian religion was practiced. Some of these have become tourist attractions in their own right, but visitors should nevertheless treat these places with the same level of respect one would show at a place of worship. To show respect, do not horseplay, rearrange or move any item, and never, ever take any item, including rocks and sand, with you. * If you visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you will no doubt hear about Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes. An urban legend has it that people who have taken '''volcanic rock''' from Hawai'i, not just the park, have suffered various misfortunes; it is believed that it is the wrath of Pele. In any case, it is illegal to take rocks or other material from a national park. It is also unethical and looked down upon to take any rocks, sand or other natural items from the islands, for religious, moral and environmental reasons alike. Take only pictures, leave only footprints. * '''Native Hawaiians do not identify as Native Americans''', as they are culturally and historically distinct from people indigenous to the continental United States. Just stick to the term "Native Hawaiian". * The '''status of Native Hawaiians''' vis-a-vis the U.S. federal government has become a hot topic, with some Native Hawaiian groups seeking a degree of sovereignty for the Hawaiian people as redress for the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy and U.S. annexation in the 1890s. (Honolulu is home to the only royal palace on U.S. soil.) There is no consensus among Native Hawaiians on what form this sovereignty should take, with some preferring the status quo of ordinary citizenship, some seeking a status similar to that of Native Americans, and some wanting complete independence and secession from the Union. In addition, private and government programs that benefit Native Hawaiians have been called into question via a series of lawsuits that have received extensive coverage in local media. Discussions of Hawaiian sovereignty and programs can arouse a variety of strong opinions (both in support and in opposition) among Hawaii residents of all ethnicities, and the uninitiated visitor would be wise to avoid bringing up these topics in casual conversation. With that in mind, there are some subtle differences in English word usage. When talking with Hawaii residents, be aware of the following differences in word usage to avoid miscommunications. * '''Always refer to the continental United States as "the Mainland" rather than "the States."''' Hawaii has been one of "the States" since 1959, and the Hawaiian sovereignty movement notwithstanding (see above), most Hawaii residents are proud to be part of the United States. This is especially true for Japanese-Americans, many of whose relatives served in the celebrated 100th/442nd unit in World War II. Using the term "the States" (implying that Hawaii is somehow foreign) may be seen as naive at best and condescending at worst. However, don't be surprised if some local people are condescending towards you because you are from the mainland. The "local" vs. "mainland" difference is something local people are only too happy to point out. * '''Residents of Hawaii do not necessarily consider themselves "Hawaiian."''' For instance, when asking a Hawaii resident, "Are you a native Hawaiian?" don't be surprised if his reply is "No, I'm Japanese." (Ask instead, "Were you born and raised in Hawaii?") On the Mainland, for example, "Californian" means any person who lives in (or has ties to) California. However, in Hawaii, the terms "Hawaiian" or "native Hawaiian" are reserved to mean someone who is descended from the indigenous people of Hawaii. This definition even appears in state laws. Because Hawaii is made of people of various ethnicities, someone whose family may have lived in Hawaii for generations may still not be Hawaiian by the above definition. To avoid misunderstanding, it is best to refer to Hawaii residents as such: "Islanders", "locals", or "''kamaʻaina''", unless you know for a fact that they are of native Hawaiian descent. Some Native Hawaiians may attribute accidents caused by nature (such as a landslide at Sacred Falls that killed several people) to the Menehune punishing tourists disrespecting the land. Menehune or not, Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places in the world and its sites deserve our respect. Bottom line: respect the land and the people; there may be more there than meets the eye. ==Connect== ===Post=== Hawaii uses the [https://www.usps.com U.S. Postal Service] with zip codes 96701-96898 and a state code of "HI". Postage in Hawaii uses the same rates as the mainland, and is considered domestic for all postal purposes. First class and priority mail do not experience delays, but ground shipments can be much slower. Private companies FedEx and UPS are present in Hawaii, express shipment times are the same, but add 2-3 days for ground shipments. ===Internet=== Free Wi-Fi is widely available, and can easily be found in most cafes and shopping centers. All major hotels offer free Wi-Fi for guests, and it is available at most airports. Public computers are available at public libraries for library cardholders; visitors may purchase a 3-month library card for $10. ===Phone=== Hawaii's area code is '''808'''. All 10 digits must be dialed when making local calls. When dialing any off-island telephone number, dial 1 + area code + phone number. You must include the 808 area code when calling another island. Long distance charges to the mainland, if any, are usually the same standard domestic rates as it would be if calling within the 48 contiguous states. Check with your phone/long distance company to be sure. ==Go next== As Hawaii is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the state has few nearby neighbors. * '''[[California]]''' - The point of departure for many visitors from the continental United States. [[San Francisco]] is over 150 miles closer than [[Los Angeles]] because it's much further west. A few other California cities also have non-stop flights as well. * '''[[Oceania]]''' - Hawaii can be a stepping off point to explore the many islands of the Pacific as well as the countries of '''[[Australia]]''' and '''[[New Zealand]]'''. * '''[[Japan]]''' and '''[[South Korea]]''' - Hawaii is a popular vacation destination for Japanese and Korean tourists there are non-stop flight options with multiple airlines at competitive fares. Flight times are 8 to 9 hours. {{IsPartOf|Polynesia}} {{isPartOf|United States}} {{usableregion}} {{geo|20.54022|-157.49451|zoom=8}} qcghb2y1948lre1c1kdos7p7zgum364 5288931 5288930 2026-06-06T18:41:00Z Anyone150 1516949 /* By plane */ 5288931 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Hawaii banner Na Pali Coast.jpg|caption=From a trail along Kauai's Na Pali Coast}} '''Hawaii''' ([[Hawaiian phrasebook|Hawaiian]]: ''Hawaiʻi'', sometimes pronounced ''ha-VAI-ee'' by locals) is the 50th state of the [[United States]]. Situated nearly at the center of the north Pacific Ocean, Hawaii marks the northeast corner of [[Polynesia]]. While it was once a major hub for the whaling, sugar and pineapple industries, it is now economically dependent on tourism and the U.S. military. The natural beauty of the islands continues to be one of Hawaii's greatest assets. [[Honolulu]] is the state's capital, largest city, and cultural hub. [[Hawaiian]] and English are the official languages of Hawaii. ==Islands== Hawaii is an archipelago of over 19 volcanic islands spread over a geological "hot spot" in the Central Pacific. The Pacific plate on which the islands ride moves to the northwest, so in general the islands are older and smaller (due to erosion) as you move from southeast to northwest. There are eight major islands, six of which are open to tourism. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Hawaii regions map.png | regionmapsize=370px | region1name=[[Big Island|Hawaii]] | region1color=#b5d29f | region1items=''Hawaiʻi'' | region1description=Almost always called the '''Big Island''' to avoid confusion, it's the largest of the islands and home to Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa (the largest and one of the most active volcanoes on Earth), '''[[Hawaii Volcanoes National Park]]''', coffee and macadamia nut plantations, working ranches, and even green sand beaches. [[Kailua-Kona]] is the busiest part of the island on the dry, leeward side, and near the mega-resort Kohala Coast area with nearly zero annual precipitation. The saddle road (quite drivable and a must see – despite what rental car companies say) passes between the massive volcanoes and connects [[Kohala]] with [[Hilo]], the largest town on the Big Island and county seat with annual precipitation of more than {{in|300}} per year. Unlike anywhere else on Earth and definitely worth a look. | region2name=[[Oahu]] | region2color=#4f93c0 | region2items=''Oʻahu'' | region2description=Nicknamed "the Gathering Place," Oahu is the most populous and developed island. Its southern shore is home to the city of [[Honolulu]], the state capital and largest city; four out of every five ''kama'aina'' (Hawaii residents) call it home. It is the governmental and commercial center of the state, and [[Honolulu/Waikiki|Waikiki]] Beach is arguably the best known tourist destination in Hawaii. Outside the city are pineapple fields, and the [[North Shore (Oahu)|North Shore]] of Oahu, which is known each winter as the home of some of the largest waves in the world. The USS Arizona National Memorial at [[Pearl Harbor]] is also a very popular visitor destination. | region3name=[[Maui]] | region3color=#d56d76 | region3description=The second largest island in the chain, and home to the 10,023 foot (3,055 m) tall volcanic mountain crater of Haleakala. It is nicknamed "the Valley Isle" for the narrow plain between [[Haleakala National Park|Haleakala]] and the West Maui mountains. On the west side of the island are the resort areas of [[Lahaina]], [[Kaanapali]] and [[Kapalua]], while the south side is home to [[Kihei]], and [[Wailea]]. On the east side is the tiny village of [[Hana]], reached by one of the most winding and beautiful roads in the world. | region4name=[[Kauai]] | region4color=#71b37b | region4items=''Kauaʻi'' | region4description="The Garden Isle" is home to several natural wonders, such as the Wailua River, [[Waimea Canyon]], and the Na Pali Coast. Mount Waialeale is known as one of the rainiest spots in the world. It boasts the most beaches out of the major islands, with the longest being Polihale measuring {{mi|17}} in length. It's similar to the Big Island in that they have the most rural feel out of the 4 major islands. | region5name=[[Molokai]] | region5color=#578e86 | region5items=''Molokaʻi'' | region5description="The Friendly Isle" is the fifth largest and one of the least developed of the main Hawaiian Islands. It is home to Kalaupapa, the place where long term sufferers of Hansen's Disease (also known as leprosy) were forced into quarantine by the Hawaiian government until 1969. It is now known for pristine, breathtaking tropical landscapes, environmental stewardship, rich and deep Hawaiian traditions, and a visitor-friendly culture. | region6name=[[Lanai]] | region6color=#d5dc76 | region6items=''Lānaʻi'' | region6description=Known as "the Pineapple Isle," formerly the world’s largest pineapple plantation owned by Dole Foods; it is now home to two high-end resorts. Just 3,135 people live on its {{mi2|141}}. There are no traffic lights or bakeries. There is just one gas station and three main roads. It is ringed with vast and empty beaches, accessible only by four-wheel drive. | region7name=Niihau{{anchor|Niihau}} | region7color=#8a84a3 | region7items=''Niʻihau'' | region7description=A privately owned island with an entirely Native Hawaiian population. Until 1987, "the Forbidden Isle" was off limits to all but family members and invited guests of the owners. Tourism to the island is limited to helicopter, ATV, and hunting excursions originating on Kauai, and tourists are not permitted to visit the sole inhabited village on the island. There are around 130 Niihau residents and Hawaiian is the official language. They do not have running water, use solar power and live rent-free. | region8name=Kahoolawe{{anchor|Kahoolawe}} | region8color=#d09440 | region8items=''Kahoʻolawe'' | region8description=A former U.S. Navy bombing range, which remains uninhabited. Cleanup efforts to rehabilitate the island are continuing. }} ==Cities== The term "cities" is used here in a broad sense. Hawaii has no organized government below the county level. All communities that would be thought of as cities, towns, and the like in the rest of the US are merely "census-designated places", statistical entities established by the United States Census Bureau. {{Mapframe|21.3|-157.816667|zoom=6|height=|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Honolulu]]|url=|lat=21.3|long=-157.816667}} – state capital and most-populous community *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kahuku]]|url=|lat=21.680278|long=-157.950278}} – on Oahu *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kailua]]|url=|lat=21.3975|long=-157.739444}} – on Oahu *{{marker|type=city|name=Lihue|url=|lat=21.974722|long=-159.365556}} (Hawaiian: ''Līhuʻe'') – on Kauai *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Lahaina]]|url=|lat=20.886111|long=-156.674722}} (Hawaiian: ''Lāhainā'') – on Maui *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kahului]]|url=|lat=20.881667|long=-156.4675}} – on Maui *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Wailuku]]|url=|lat=20.891923|long=-156.502177}} – on Maui *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hilo]]|url=|lat=19.705556|long=-155.085833}} – largest community on the Big Island *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kailua-Kona]]|url=|lat=19.65|long=-155.994167}} – on the Big Island == Other destinations == [[File:Green sea turtle at Punaluu beach, Hawaii.jpg|thumb|250px|Green sea turtle at Punaluʻu Beach, Big Island]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail]]|url=|lat=18.911111|long=-155.681111}} on the Big Island. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Haleakala National Park]]|url=|lat=20.716667|long=-156.166667}} on Maui *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Hawaii Volcanoes National Park]]|url=|lat=19.383333|long=-155.2}} on the Big Island *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kalaupapa National Historical Park]]|url=|lat=21.189444|long=-156.981667}} on Moloka‘i *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park]]|url=|lat=19.421944|long=-155.910278}} on the Big Island *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Honolulu/Western#Pearl Harbor|USS Arizona National Memorial]]|url=|lat=21.365|long=-157.95}} on O‘ahu *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Waimea Canyon]]|url=|lat=20.020278|long=-155.667778}} on Kaua‘i *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Waikiki]]|url=|lat=21.2752|long=-157.8312}} on O‘ahu ==Understand== {{infobox|The name game|The [[:wikipedia:Reef triggerfish|reef triggerfish]] (''Rhinecanthus rectangulus''), the state fish of Hawaii, is known in the Hawaiian language as the ''humu&shy;humu&shy;nuku&shy;nuku&shy;āpuaʻa'', which means "triggerfish with a snout like a pig". It is not the longest Hawaiian fish name, as is often thought; that distinction instead goes to the ''lau&shy;wili&shy;wili&shy;nuku&shy;nukuʻoiʻoi'' ("long-snouted fish shaped like a wiliwili leaf"), the [[:wikipedia:Forcipiger longirostris|forceps butterflyfish]] (''Forcipiger longirostris'').}} The island of Oahu, the most populous and home to the state capital and largest city of Honolulu, is great for people who wish to experience the islands and still keep the conveniences of a large city. Rainforests and hiking trails are minutes from Waikiki Beach, one of the world's best tourist destinations. In the winter, large waves on Oahu's north shore turn the normally sleepy area into the surfing capital of the world. On the other hand, those who wish to experience Hawaii at a slower pace would do well to visit one of the Neighbor Islands (the other, less populated islands around Oahu). All the Neighbor Islands offer opportunities to relax and enjoy the sun and scenery. Many of the natural wonders of the islands are on the Neighbor Islands, from Waimea Canyon on Kauai, to Haleakala on Maui, to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. Numerous waterfalls and rainforests evoke memories of what the islands might have looked like before major corporations set their sights on Hawaii. The road to Hana is one of the most scenic on Maui, as you manipulate many turns overlooking the Eastern coast of the island. It leads you over bridges and past beautiful waterfalls. You can end up at the Oheo Gulch Pools (which are not sacred and there are more than seven), where the hiking is quite the experience. Several islands are recovering from severe and deadly wildfires in 2023. While some fire-affected areas remain closed to the public, visitation continues to be welcomed and encouraged throughout Maui and the islands of Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island. ===History=== Polynesians migrated to, and established communities on, the islands of Hawaii around 800 CE, part of the great expansion of [[In_the_footsteps_of_explorers#Discovering_the_Pacific_islands|Austronesian peoples]] that also populated most other Pacific islands. [[Voyages of James Cook|Captain James Cook]] was the first European visitor to the islands, arriving in 1778. At that time, each island was a separate kingdom. With the support of Western advisors and weapons, Kamehameha I of the island of Hawaii conquered all the islands except Kauai, which acquiesced to his rule in 1810. After Kamehameha II abolished the ''kapu'' (taboo) system, American missionaries came to the islands to spread Christianity. As the Native Hawaiians did not have any concept of owning land, the missionaries became official land owners of many of the islands. Their children became successful businessmen in the Islands and still own entire islands to this day. Pineapple and sugar cane plantations were established, and workers from other countries (in particular Japan, the Philippines, China, Korea and Portugal) were imported as contract laborers. Their descendants also became established as successful professionals. The Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown in 1893 by a group of American businessmen. While the U.S. administration at the time refused to annex the former sovereign nation, in 1898 the United States did annex the islands, which became a territory in 1900, and a state of the United States in 1959. Hawaii also became an important outpost for the U.S. military through the 20th century, and Pearl Harbor was the site of the Japanese attack on December 7, 1941, that resulted in the U.S. joining World War II (see [[Pacific War]]). Today, the military maintains its presence here, with several major military bases on the island of Oahu alone; Pearl Harbor remains the headquarters of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. Over the years, many major retail chains have expanded their presence in Hawaii, making the Islands look more and more like the continental United States, often at the expense of local businesses. Nevertheless, Hawaii remains culturally vibrant. Its population, descended from the Native Hawaiians, the original plantation workers, and more recent arrivals, and in which no one group has a majority, is often cited as an example of multiculturalism at its best. There is a strong commitment to perpetuating Native Hawaiian cultural traditions, and the cultural heritage of Hawaii's many immigrant communities from the Pacific, Asia and Europe. And certainly the environment is conducive to longevity. Hawaii has the longest predicted life expectancies of any U.S. state. ===Climate=== [[File:Rain at the Honolulu Museum of Art.jpg|thumb|You're more likely to be caught in the rain during the wet season (October to March).]] Depending on where you are in Hawaii, the weather can be very different over even short distances. On the same day, on Oahu you might find sun over the beaches in Waikiki and rain only a few miles away in Manoa Valley. Although the islands receive abundant amounts of both sunshine and rain, rain is more likely on the north and east sides of the islands, which face the prevailing northeasterly tradewinds (the "windward" side of the island), as well as the mountain peaks and valleys. The moist tropical air carried by the tradewinds is forced upward by the mountains, resulting in clouds and rain. Rain is less likely on the coastal areas of the "leeward" sides (the south and west sides) of the islands. Although there are no true "seasons" in the islands in the same sense as the rest of the U.S., the climate does go through annual cycles based on rainfall. The "wet" season in Hawaii (cooler temperatures and more rainfall) runs roughly from October to March, and the "dry" season (warmer temperatures and less rainfall) from April to September. There is therefore a higher probability of rain if you visit during the peak of tourist season in late December or January. Hurricane season in the islands runs from June to November. Although Hawaii's relative isolation means that it is affected only rarely by tropical cyclones, one of the storms or its remnants does hit or skirt the Islands every couple of years, such as Hurricanes Iwa and Iniki hitting Kauai in 1982 and 1992 respectively. Overall, Hawaii is warm and balmy — when you step out of the plane you'll immediately notice that the air is soft and humid — and during the summer months the tradewinds provide a pleasant breeze. Daytime temperatures generally range from the low 70s (21°C) in "winter" to the mid 80s (27°C) in "summer". Very rarely does the air temperature exceed 90°F (32°C) even in the hottest part of summer; however, the humidity will make it feel as if it were a few degrees hotter. Ocean temperatures range between 73°F (23°C) degrees in the winter to 78°F (25.5°C) in the summer. There is usually no more than a 20°F (12°C) difference between daytime high and nighttime low temperatures. Consequently, besides your driver's license, credit card, camera, binoculars, and other essentials, it's best to keep your clothes to a minimum... one or two pair of washable slacks/shorts, light shirts, walking shoes, sandals and swim gear. A light jacket or sweater may be necessary depending on when and where you go, but heavy clothing is not normally necessary in most areas. Sunscreen is essential since Hawaii's close proximity to the Equator translates into very strong sun radiation. The suitcase space you save can be used to fill up on island purchases. Although the above is true for most of the Islands, you will find exceptions. A good rule to remember is the higher the elevation, the cooler it will be. Upcountry areas of Kauai, Maui and the Big Island will be cooler during the day, in the 60s F, and much colder at night, in the 40s F. At the highest elevations on Maui and the Big Island, temperatures can drop to near freezing in places like Haleakala National Park, Volcanoes National Park, and Mauna Kea. On the Big Island, both of the largest mountains, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, can receive snowfall year around, mostly in the winter, and can even experience blizzard conditions. There is more of a difference from the day-to-night temperatures in Hawaii than there is summer-to-winter. Given that, there can be more of a difference from lower elevations to higher elevations than either of those, depending on where you are visiting. It's important to research the areas you plan to visit and bring clothing suitable for those conditions. ===Best times to go=== Hawaii's tropical weather tends to be most attractive to tourists when the weather is frightfully cold at home. It's not surprising, then, that the peak tourist season in Hawaii is the Northern Hemisphere winter (mid-December to mid-April). The highest prices tend to be during the Christmas and New Year's season, with a second peak around spring break in March and April. Hawaii's weather is at its best (not too hot and not too cold, with not so much rain) in April, May, September, and October — as it happens, this is also the period when some of the best deals can be had. ===Holidays=== Hawaii observes all the [[United States of America#Holidays|federal holidays]], except Columbus Day. It adds Prince Kuhio Day on March 26th, Good Friday (two days before Western Easter), King Kamehameha Day on June 11, Statehood Day on the 3rd Friday in August, and Election Day (in even-numbered years only, always on a Tuesday, from November 2nd to 8th). Also, some cities and towns that have a large population of federal workers or military personnel might observe Columbus Day anyway. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.gohawaii.com/ Go Hawaii] website ==Talk== {{see also|Hawaiian phrasebook}} '''[[Hawaiian phrasebook|Hawaiian]]''' and '''English''' are the official languages of Hawaii, albeit with English being the predominant language. However, if you encounter someone fluent in Hawaiian or learning the language and speak a few words of Hawaiian you'll instantly find yourself much more appreciated than the average tourist. [[Japanese phrasebook|Japanese]] is common in the tourism industry due to the large number of Japanese tourists who visit, as well as the large Japanese-American community in the state. There are also many communities that speak [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]], Cantonese, Tagalog, Ilocano, Vietnamese, Korean and Samoan. '''Hawaiian Pidgin English''', usually just called '''Pidgin''', is a creole that many locals grew up speaking which incorporates bits of Hawaiian, Chinese, Japanese, Tagalog, Portuguese and many other languages, in addition to its own unique idioms. It has a unique sound and feel. You will most likely hear Pidgin spoken on the street by Islanders in informal situations; it is Hawaii's language of everyday life. There are some subtle differences in English usage in Hawaii. Learning a few words of Hawaiian can be fun and useful. Some signs in Hawaii use Hawaiian words, and most street signs use Hawaiian names. Some useful words include: :; Hello : Aloha. (''ah-LOH-hah'') :; Goodbye : Aloha. (''ah-LOH-hah'') :; love : aloha (''ah-LOH-hah'') (So you indirectly refer to "love" when you first see someone and when they have to go.) :; Thank you. : Mahalo. (''mah-HAH-loh'') (Although this word is found on fast food trash receptacles around the islands, it does ''not'' mean "trash".) :; finished, done : pau (''pow'') :; help/respect : kokua (''koh-KOO-ah'') :; woman : wahine (''vah-HEE-neh'') :; man : kāne (''KAH-neh'') :; child : keiki (''KAY-kee'') :; local resident : kamaʻaina (''kah-mah-EYE-nah'') :; toward the mountains : mauka (''MOW-kah, MOW rhymes with pow'') :; toward the ocean : makai (''mah-KIGH'') :; appetizer : pupu ("POO-poo") :; delicious : ono ("oh-no") ===Shaka=== [[File:Gesture raised fist with thumb and pinky lifted.jpg|thumb|The shaka sign]] The '''shaka''' sign is a [[Gestures|hand gesture]] often used in Hawaii and adopted by surfers. To make a shaka, make a fist with your hand, and extend the thumb and smallest finger. Many people emphasize it by rotating their hand back and forth (along the arm, as if turning a doorknob). There's not an exact meaning to the shaka, but it generally conveys "aloha spirit". Drivers frequently sign the shaka to say "thank you" to another driver. ==Get in== [[File:Hawaje-NoRedLine.jpg|thumb|300px|A satellite view of the Hawaiian Islands and part of the vast expanse of the Pacific]] Foreign travelers entering Hawaii directly from another country are subject to the same entry requirements as for the United States in general. See the ''[[United States#Get in|Get in]]'' section of the [[United States]] article. As Hawaii is one of the 50 United States, flights between Hawaii and other states are considered domestic flights. Therefore, you never need to show a passport or other documentation when arriving in Hawaii from the U.S. Mainland. When leaving Hawaii on a domestic flight, you only need to show [http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/acceptable-ids approved picture ID], which for foreign visitors would typically be a passport. Hawaii has requirements to control the flow of plants and animals. The islands have unique plant and animal life found nowhere else. They also have diseases and pests not found on the U.S. Mainland, and are free of other diseases and pests that are commonly found elsewhere. Because of this, '''Hawaii is an agricultural quarantine zone'''. For travelers, this means three things: # You are required by the Hawaii State Department of Agriculture to fill out a written agricultural declaration while aboard your flight to Hawaii. One declaration form is required per family; the forms will be collected before landing. Any '''fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and the like''' must be declared and inspected by Department of Agriculture personnel at your port of arrival; some items may be prohibited from entering Hawaii. Penalties for non-compliance are stiff. To avoid delays and hassles, '''avoid bringing such items with you.''' (On the reverse side of this declaration is a Hawaii Tourism Authority questionnaire that asks for information about your stay. You are encouraged but not required to complete this questionnaire.) # When leaving Hawaii for the U.S. Mainland, '''all baggage (checked and carry-on) must be inspected''' by U.S. Department of Agriculture inspectors at the airport. With the exception of pineapples and treated papayas (pawpaw), any fresh fruits (grown in Hawaii or elsewhere) are prohibited from leaving Hawaii to control the spread of fruit flies. Consult the [https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/resources/traveler/hawaii/hawaiian_products U.S. Department of Agriculture] for more details. Depending on the airport you leave from and the airline, be prepared to submit to as many as ''three'' X-ray checkpoints on the way to your Mainland flight: having your checked bags X-rayed in the ticket lobby, the TSA security checkpoint, and perhaps a separate agricultural inspection for your carry-on bags on the way to your gate. That last checkpoint will probably have a sign that says, "Yes, you have to do this again...." # As Hawaii is rabies-free, '''pets''' such as dogs and cats are subject to [http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/ai/aqs/animal-quarantine-information-page/ complex and strict quarantine requirements]. The least restrictive provisions (direct airport release or 5-day maximum quarantine) require at least two rabies vaccinations at least thirty days apart and at least 90 days before arrival, the latest of which must be current; microchip implantation; and a negative rabies blood test within the last three years, but at least 120 days before arrival. Pets failing to meet these requirements will be subject to quarantine for up to 120 days. '''Hawaii does not observe Daylight Saving Time,''' which means that the time difference between Hawaii and most of North America varies by the time of year. Hawaii is two time zones behind the U.S. West Coast, thereby accounting for a ''three''-hour time difference during DST for most states. Travelers from Asia, Australia, and New Zealand should keep the International Date Line in mind when doing time conversions and flight reservations. Hawaii is 19 hours behind Japan, making it five hours ahead of Japan by the clock, but a day behind on the calendar. Most flights to Hawaii that leave Asia in the evening will arrive in the morning of the ''same'' day, and return flights that leave Hawaii in the morning will arrive in the early afternoon of the ''next'' day. ===By plane=== [[File:HonoluluAirportWelcomeSign.jpg|thumb|300px|Hawaii welcomes you!]] {{see also|Flying in the United States}} Most flights from the mainland U.S. and almost all international flights land in [[Honolulu]] on the island of [[Oahu]]. From here, passengers destined for a neighbor island will connect to an interisland flight (see By Plane in Get Around below). Nonstop service from the mainland is also available to [[Kahului]] on [[Maui]], [[Kona]] and [[Hilo]] on the [[Big Island]], and [[Lihue]] on [[Kauai]]. Kona also serves a limited number of non-stop flights from Japan, and seasonal service from Canada. Depending on the airline, nonstop flights to Honolulu leave from most major gateway airports on the West Coast (as well as some smaller ones), as well as many major airports in the Midwest and East Coast. The flight from [[Los Angeles]] or [[San Francisco]] takes about 5 hours, which is comparable to a flight between the West and East Coasts of the contiguous United States. Thus, a flight from [[New York City|New York]] will take about 10½ hours. [https://www.qantas.com Qantas] and [https://www.hawaiianairlines.com Hawaiian Air] connect [[Honolulu]] to Sydney in [[Australia]]. All Nippon Airways (ANA), Delta, Hawaiian, Japan Airlines, ZipAir, and United connect Honolulu to [[Tokyo#By plane|Tokyo]] while Japan Airlines offer direct flights to additional Japanese cities. Asiana, Korean and Air Premia offer direct flights to/from [[Seoul]]. Only carrier to [[Manila]] is Philippine Airlines. ===By boat=== There are a few trans-Pacific cruises to Hawaii that leave from ports on the West Coast. On an 18-day, {{convert|5000|mi|km|adj=on}} round-trip cruise between Hawaii and the West Coast, about 12 of those days will be at sea, with nothing on the horizon and nothing to do except what is on the ship. Even if you are an avid cruiser, you may get more Hawaii bang from your cruise buck by flying to Honolulu and taking a seven-day interisland cruise that starts and leaves from there. Pacific Ocean cruises to and from California depart for the most part from mid-fall to mid-spring. (See [[#Get around|Get around: By boat]] for more info on the regular cruises from the Mainland.) There are a few [http://www.freightercruises.com freighter services], but if you are an American citizen embarking in the United States and wishing to travel to Hawaii then you cannot travel this way on a foreign-flagged ship due to the U.S. Passenger Vessel Services Act of 1886. Instead, try cruises from Ensenada, [[Baja California]] or Vancouver, [[British Columbia]]. It is also worthwhile to troll marinas on the West Coast of the contiguous United States, leaving your contact info and posting to online discussion boards for people planning to spend around a month sailing from the mainland. Ensure that any expectation of compensation including work duties, food, supplies, and damaged equipment is covered in writing so everything is clear. Storms and days stuck becalmed are to be expected. ==Get around== ===By plane=== Air travel is, by and large, compulsory for traveling within the state. Travelers can choose from either a scheduled or unscheduled air carrier. Three scheduled inter-island air carriers, '''[https://www.hawaiianairlines.com/ Hawaiian Airlines]''', '''[http://www.mokuleleairlines.com Mokulele Airlines]''', and '''[https://www.southwest.com Southwest Airlines]''', provide set scheduled flights between the islands. You can save money and time by planning "triangle routes" that arrive in Hawaii on one island and leave on another, avoiding the cost of a return inter-island flight. Scheduled flight times run anywhere from 20 minutes to one hour, and can usually be purchased a day or two before departure, although this may increase the cost of traveling. Visitors wanting to fly according to their own demand (as opposed to scheduled times) should consider flying on an unscheduled air carrier also known as '''air taxi''' service. Contact the air carrier directly and arrange a time and place for pick up. '''[http://www.iolaniair.com Iolani Air]{{Dead link|date=November 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' and '''[http://www.bigislandair.com Big Island Air]''' are two such air carriers. The Hawaiian islands are populated with airstrips that scheduled carriers do not service. In these instances air taxi companies may be the only means of traveling. Hunters and campers with cumbersome gear planning trips to remote island regions, as well as visitors wishing to "island hop", should consider air taxi service. ===By boat=== In general, ferry services between the islands are few and far between, and many are not a practical means of transportation. Charter boats sail and motor between some islands, especially the [[Maui]]-[[Molokai]]-[[Lanai]] area. Crossing the channels between islands can be extremely rough going. A few charter companies specialize in having boats delivered interisland and can meet you at your destination. A company offering ferries is [http://go-lanai.com Expeditions] (Maui–Lana'i $30 one way for adults and $20 for children). '''[https://www.ncl.com Norwegian Cruise Lines]''' operates a [[cruise ships|cruise ship]], ''Pride of America'', between the islands, embarking and disembarking in [[Honolulu]]. Inquire at nearby marinas about joining the crew of a local sailboat or yacht out for a cruise. ===By bus=== On Oahu there is an excellent public transportation system on '''[http://www.thebus.org TheBus]''' for bus travel between Honolulu, Waikiki, Kaneohe, and the surrounding suburban and rural areas of Oahu. You can buy a booklet called "TheBus" at a local [http://www.abcstores.com/ ABC Store] giving route information on how to get around the island or online on [http://www.thebus.org TheBus.org] or download "DaBus2" app on a mobile device. Public transportation is limited on the neighboring islands, so renting a car makes sense. There are some bus services available within and between populated areas on the other islands. They are: *'''[http://www.heleonbus.hawaiicounty.gov Hele-On]{{Dead link|date=April 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (Hilo, Kona, Waimea and around the big island of Hawai'i) *'''[http://www.kauai.gov/Transportation Kaua'i Bus]''' (Kauai) *'''[http://www.mauicounty.gov/index.aspx?NID=605 Maui Bus]''' (Kahului, Wailuku, Lahaina, and other places in western Maui. No service to the Haleakala NP in the eastern part of the island). No regular bus services on Molokai or Lanai. Information on transit can be found [https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/public-transportation-links/hawaii/ here]. ===By car=== {{seealso|Driving in the United States}} {{infobox|Interstates? In ''Hawaii''?|[[File:I-H1.svg|125px|right]] Visitors to Oahu will notice something vaguely familiar about Honolulu's freeways: they are marked with the same familiar red, white, and blue Interstate highway signs as on the Mainland, except with an H as part of the number. Many a visitor has wondered why Hawaii has interstate highways when you can't even drive between islands, let alone between Hawaii and the rest of the United States. The answer lies in the full name of the Interstate highway system: The National System of Interstate and '''Defense''' Highways. Oahu has military bases from four major branches of the military, including Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, and Schofield Barracks, and the routes of the Hawaii interstates pass by or terminate at one or more of these bases. In short, they're as much designed for transporting troops as commuters. Even on the mainland, it's not unheard of for a non-auxiliary Interstate not to cross state lines; several Interstate highways also run entirely within a single state. Alaska and Puerto Rico also have highways funded as Interstates, although they're not signed as such.}} If you want to take your car to Hawaii, it will either need to be amphibious or freighted by ship with very high cost, making this infeasible unless you plan a long-term stay in Hawaii. However, Hawaii is the only state that honors all other U.S. state vehicle licenses until they expire, provided you apply for a permit within 10 days of the car's arrival. (Incidentally, Hawaii is also the only state that does not require intended residents to exchange their out-of-state driver's licenses.) Car rentals should be booked as soon as possible since, as elsewhere in the US, the price charged is based on a supply/demand basis. The exception is Waikiki where you will not need a car on a permanent basis so just rent a car the day before you want one. Some hotels may charge you for car parking; check with your hotel for parking fees before you book your car. Gasoline, while nowhere near the prices charged in Europe, is more expensive in Hawaii than in many areas of the Mainland. There was a time when gas prices in Hawaii were much more expensive than other states. Nowadays, however, average prices are comparable to San Francisco and Los Angeles, and are sometimes below those cities. Expect to pay about 20-25% more than the average price on the Mainland for gasoline in Honolulu. Neighbor Island prices can be as much as 10-15% above that. The major highways are referred to by number (H-1, H-2, and H-3; they're never called "I-H-1" etc.), but most locals refer to other roads not by number but by name, and will likely not understand if you ask for a road by number. For example, you would never hear someone refer to Kalanianaole Highway as "route 72" or "highway 72." If you ask for directions, they will likely not be given in terms of compass direction. Instead you will probably receive relative directions based on landmarks. Common landmarks include '''''mauka''''' (toward the mountains), '''''makai''''' (toward the ocean), and on Oahu, '''''ʻEwa''''' (toward Ewa Beach, roughly west) and '''Diamond Head''' (toward Diamond Head, roughly east). So a query for a grocery store might be met with "go two blocks ''makai'', turn right on King and it's half a mile up on the ''mauka'' side of the street." ===By moped, scooter or motorcycle=== Scooters are also an excellent alternative for getting around the islands. Rental rates are fairly cheap: about $50/day, or $135 for three days, which you can sometimes haggle down. The scooters are also fun to ride and are cheap on gas (typical mileage is 60&ndash;100&nbsp;mpg, or 2.3&ndash;3.9&nbsp;L/100&nbsp;km). You can ride them anywhere except on limited-access highways (of which there aren't many in Hawaii, and there's always a surface street that's probably more scenic). Scooters only require a valid license for driving a car, not a motorcycle license. The driver must be over 15 (legally out-of-state license aren't acceptable unless the driver is 18, but this is rarely enforced). It's illegal for two or more persons to ride a moped, although this may not be enforced in more remote areas such as [[Big Island]]. Helmets are not mandatory, but if you want one (which is always a good idea) you should be able to rent one with your scooter, possibly for free. When you get your scooter, inspect it first, as some are in bad repair: make sure the headlights and turn signals are working, and insist on taking it for a quick spin around the block to check that the acceleration, transmission, brakes, and steering are okay. If anything is amiss, insist on a replacement scooter, or walk away from the deal and find another rental company. Scooters that can go over 30&nbsp;mph or have an engine larger than 49&nbsp;cc are classified the same as motorcycles, so you need a [http://www.city-data.com/forum/hawaii/947879-question-mopeds-scooters-vespas-etc.html#post13729771 motorcycle license]. Motorcycle rentals are easy to find. On most islands, you can also rent out Harley-Davidson motorcycles. ===By bicycle=== Depending on where you travel a bicycle can be a great form of transportation if you keep a few things in mind. Some roads are very narrow and winding which may create a hazard when sharing the road with cars. There are also some steep hills as Hawaii is a series of mountains erupting from the sea; without a topo map an apparent shortcut may require a challenging hill while a long loop may be flat and avoid large terrain getting you there quicker. If you stay near the beach there is the salty sea air and rain which will eventually rust a bicycle which is kept outside, keep on top of chain and part maintenance and cleaning to prevent damage. Honolulu has a [https://www.honolulu.gov/bicycle/bicycleeducation/bicycle-registration.html bicycle registration law]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} requiring a tag for $15, and bicycles without registration can be impounded by police. The law and common sense require a white front and red rear light when operating a bicycle during twilight and night. Many airlines charge an oversized luggage fee for most full size bikes even when boxed; some tour-capable folding bikes can be fit inside a standard suitcase, but most public transportation does not allow bicycles at all. == See == == Do == <!-- do not list individual businesses here - those should go in city articles. instead provide an overview of Hawaiian activities with pointers to the island(s) on which they most commonly occur --> The Hawaiian islands offer a vast number of activities. Hiking and eco tours are popular on most islands, with opportunities for horseback riding, ATV, air tours, and other methods of exploring the landscape. Museums and historical sites such as Pearl Harbor are also to be found throughout the islands. Cultural activities such as the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu also make for interesting day-long activities. Oahu is famous for Pearl Harbor tours, but also popular are '''shark dives''' in cages, Waikiki snorkel tours as well as around Oahu Tours where you will see all the major highlights of Oahu including Diamond Head, the North Shore and '''Dole Plantation''' where you can sample menu items made from fresh picked pineapples. Maui is the location for '''humpback [[whale watching]]''' from December 15 to April 15 each year as the massive humpbacks migrate to Hawaii's warm waters to bear their calves. Also famous from Maui is the '''Molokini Crater''' which is a partially submerged volcano crater that you can snorkel at. Kauai is untamed and beautiful. It has been featured in many major motion pictures over the past two decades (''Hook'', ''Jurassic Park'', ''Tropic Thunder'', ''The Descendants'', ''Avatar'', and many more). See this island by land or by air to take in the true beauty of this island. Oh and just be ready to see the roaming Roosters that inhabit the island. You can take a land tour or fly over the incredible '''huge volcano''' on a helicopter tour of the Big Island. Doors-off flights allow you to feel the heat from the volcano, an amazingly unique experience. Also on the Big Island you have the rare opportunity to '''swim with wild dolphins''', not captive ones. Hawaii is best known for its '''beaches and water activities'''. '''Surfing''' is practically a religion in Hawaii, and '''scuba diving''' and '''snorkeling''' opportunities exist nearly everywhere. In addition, jet skiing, parasailing and kayaking are available in tourist areas. Since many of the islands' tours and excursions are interacting with nature in some way, it's important to look into each and make sure they are respecting the islands. There are many endangered animals and plants, and because of this there are many laws protecting them. An example would be tour boats that have been fined for chasing dolphins or whales in order to please the tourists, which is illegal and highly disrespectful. Govern yourself the same way while you visit and remember to "kokua na `aina," or respect the land. ==Buy== As in the rest of the United States, U.S. dollars are the local currency. There are plenty of banks, ATMs, and money change offices in all cities. However, none of the major American and foreign banks have branches in Hawaii, so the banking sector is served exclusively by local banks, the largest of which are Bank of Hawaii, First Hawaiian Bank, and American Savings Bank. ATMs are scarcer on the North Shore of Oahu and other rural areas. Because Hawaii is an island state and transporting goods to Hawaii is more difficult, the prices for most goods are more expensive. Under federal law, most goods manufactured overseas in Asia must bypass Hawaii and go directly to the West Coast of the United States. They are brought to Hawaii on another ship, and the prices must include that cost of that second ship. Hawaii has a 4.166% General Excise Tax (GET), which many retailers pass through like a sales tax on their receipts. The City and County of Honolulu adds an additional amount, making the tax rate on Oahu 4.712%. The GET is not a sales tax because it is imposed on all business receipts in Hawaii. It is another reason why retail prices in Hawaii are so high, because they must include the GET paid by a Hawaii-based manufacturer, wholesaler, or distributor and passed through to the retailer. ===Clothing=== Other than the stereotypical grass skirt (which is not generally worn in Hawaii except by hula dancers), no pieces of clothing are more associated with the Islands than the aloha shirt and the ''muʻumuʻu''. The ever-present '''aloha shirt''' comes in a wide variety of designs. On one end, there are the brightly colored, tourist-oriented, polyester aloha shirts that many tourist-oriented stores throughout the Islands carry. On the other end of the spectrum are '''reverse print''' aloha shirts, which have become standard business attire among businessmen in Hawaii, in the same way that the business suit is on the mainland. These aloha shirts are usually cotton-polyester blend with the design printed on the ''inside'' of the shirt, resulting in muted colors that are considered businesslike in Hawaii. This kind of aloha shirt can be found in department stores. For women, the '''''muʻumuʻu''''' (English: "muumuu") is a long Hawaiian dress, usually made of cotton, that hangs loosely from the shoulder. A special note on shoes: the lightweight sandal commonly referred to on the Mainland as a "flip-flop" or "thong" is known as a '''"slipper"''' or '''"slippa"''' in Hawaii. Using the mainland term will get you a quizzical look from locals. Call them by their island name and they will instantly know what you are talking about. ===Made in Hawaii=== Locally made bath & body products are popular souvenirs. The islands feature some of the most refreshing fragrances, which are featured in Hawaiian shampoos, body lotions, soaps, oils, incense and floating candles. ==Eat== Contemporary food in Hawaii, like the language and popular culture, is a medley of traditional Hawaiian, Portuguese, American, and Asia-Pacific flavors. Pacific "fusion" cuisine was largely invented in Hawaii. Well-known local chefs include Sam Choy, Alan Wong, Russell Siu, Roy Yamaguchi, and George "Chef Mavro" Mavrothalassitis. Seafood is, of course, fresh and tasty. Local beef comes from ranches on [[Maui]] and coffee is grown on the [[Big Island]] and [[Kauai]]. Tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango, bananas, guavas, and papaya, as well as fresh sugar cane, can be bought in most corner stores (although you may be surprised to learn that many of those fruits are now imported from distant locales such as the [[Philippines]] and [[Brazil]]). One of the most common ways that local food is served is in the form of '''plate lunch''', usually meat or fish with two scoops of rice and macaroni salad. It's always a good deal at any lunch wagon, mall, or outside food court. [http://www.hawaiianbarbecue.com L&L Drive Inn] and [http://www.zippys.com/ Zippy's]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} are probably the most widely distributed chain of plate lunch spots in the Hawaiian islands. Branches of L&L are in some locations on the Mainland as well (as L&L Hawaiian Barbecue). Another way of enjoying local food when roaming around the island is to keep an eye out for the converted trucks or vans that are parked in their regular spots in gas station parking lots, some parks and a variety of places on the island. These '''lunch wagons''' offer plate lunches, are popular with the locals and provide great meals (on plastic plates) at very reasonable prices. There is no reason to fear them; they are very common and popular. '''Food carts''' provide other kinds of cuisine besides the standard plate lunch. You may be surprised to find that even the McDonald's menu is different. '''Saimin''', a Hawaiian noodle soup inspired by Chinese noodle soups, is a permanent menu item, and was the first regional food to be served in a McDonald's. Another favorite is the breakfast platter at Hawaiian McD's, which features Portuguese sausage, Spam, eggs, and steamed rice, sometimes with fresh pineapple. (Contrary to its poor reputation on the mainland, '''Spam''' has traditionally been very popular in Hawaii and is even used in various adapted ethnic dishes.) Also, red '''fruit punch''' is a non-carbonated fruit-flavored alternative to Coke or Sprite at the soda fountain. Perhaps the best setting for tourists to enjoy traditional Hawaiian food is at a '''luau''' (''lū‘au''), a traditional Hawaiian feast. Tourists can find luaus at various locations in the Islands, including many of the major resort hotels. At a modern luau, traditional Hawaiian favorites are served as a ''pūpū'' (buffet of appetizers and small main dishes, similar in size to Spanish ''tapas'', which gave its name to the American Chinese "pupu platter"), along with Hawaiian music, hula, and other Polynesian entertainment. The downside is that prices vary in the expensive range; expect to pay between $50 and $90 per adult and about half that per child. Dishes that are often found at luaus include: * '''''Lomi'' salmon''', salted salmon hand-mixed (''lomi-lomi'' means "to massage") with tomatoes, onions, and pepper; like an island salsa * '''''Kālua'' pig''', pork wrapped in banana leaves and steamed inside an ''imu'' (ground boiler); similar to pulled pork * '''''Pipi kāula''''', Hawaiian style beef jerky * '''''Poi''''', ground and boiled taro root paste * '''''Laulau''''', pork and butterfish (black cod) wrapped in ti plant leaves then steamed * '''''Lū‘au''''', taro leaves baked with coconut cream and usually octopus (this dish inspired the modern name of the Hawaiian feast) * '''''Haupia''''', a gelatin-like dessert prepared from thickened coconut milk; famous for being a very mild laxative Other local dishes include favorites such as the following: [[File:SPAM musubi.jpg|thumb|250px|The ubiquitous spam musubi]] * '''''Poke''''', chopped and seasoned raw fish (like a tartare), eaten by itself or over sushi rice. * '''''ʻAhi''''', yellowfin tuna, excellent as ''sashimi'' (Japanese style sliced raw fish) or as ''poke''. * '''''Mahimahi''''', dolphin fish, served as a steak, sandwich, or in almost-raw thin strips. * '''''Ono''''', a type of fish also known as wahoo. Not coincidentally, the name resembles the Hawaiian word for "delicious," ''ʻono''. * '''Shave ice''', an island version of snow cones made from finely shaved ice, comes in lots of ''ʻono'' flavors. Order your shave ice with azuki beans and/or a scoop of ice cream. * '''Saimin''', Hawaii's version of a Chinese noodle soup. * '''Malasada''', fried bread rolled in plenty of sugar, a sort of Portuguese donut. Often sold at special events. * '''Manapua''', local name for a popular type of Chinese dim sum otherwise known as ''char siu bao''. Cured sweet pork wrapped in soft white bread. * '''Spam musubi''', an unorthodox variant of Japanese riceballs (''musubi''), composed of salted rice formed into a rectangular shape and topped with spam, wrapped in seaweed. Popular enough to be sold in every Hawaiian 7-Eleven. * '''Chicken/pork adobo''', Filipino dish widely offered and appreciated in Hawaii, where the meat is marinated and then cooked in vinegar and soy sauce. * '''Loco moco''', a local specialty consisting of a hamburger patty on rice, topped with over easy egg and gravy. Excellent with tabasco sauce. Can be eaten for breakfast or lunch. * '''Chicken katsu''', fried chicken cutlet with savory sauce. Usually served with rice and mac salad. If you are roaming the island away from tourist areas, you may find restaurants are scarce. Many of the numerous golf courses have dining rooms open to the public that offer great meals. They seem to welcome the non-golfer. For specific places at which to eat, see the individual island or city articles. Be sure to check the coupon books that are available at display stands for meal specials. Popular local snacks are also heavily influenced by the large mix of cultures present in Hawaii, primarily the Chinese and Japanese. Since many of these snacks are unique to Hawaii and cannot be found anywhere else, consider purchasing a few bags from any grocery store to bring on your travels. A large portion of local snacks fall under the category known as "Crack Seed" which refers to a variety of pickled, candied, and dehydrated fruit snacks of Chinese origin. The most popular iterations of Crack Seed snacks are: *'''Li hing mui''' - Salted dried plums that are especially popular with the younger locals. Li Hing Mui is known for its unique sweet, salty, and sour flavor. It is commercially sold either with the plum seed intact or seedless and also in a powdered form that can be sprinkled onto arare, fruits, gummy bears, and many other snacks. *'''Pickled or dried fruits''' - Mangoes are usually dehydrated for a sweet snack or kept wet and flavored with Li Hing Mui powder. Lemon and orange peels are also salted and dried for a salty/sour snack. Other popular local snacks include: *'''Arare''' - Japanese rice crackers flavored with soy sauce that come in many different shapes and sizes. Arare is commonly paired with dried seaweed, li hing mui powder, or popcorn. Also commonly referred to as "Kaki Mochi" or "Mochi Crunch". *'''Dried Seafood''' - Dried cuttlefish and octopus strips, known by their Japanese names "Ika" and "Tako", are very popular snacks. Tuna, or "Ahi", is also dried and made into Ahi Jerky. *'''Macadamia nuts''' - Originally brought over from [[Australia]], where they are a part of Aboriginal cuisine, but first grown commercially in Hawaii. Dry roasted macadamia nuts are commercially sold plain, with flavoring, or in chocolate. Macadamia nuts in snack form are more popular with tourists than with locals and are usually given as gifts. If you would rather catch your own, fishing in the ocean or gathering in tidepools is free and requires no permit. Fresh-water fishing, however, does require a license. ==Drink== '''Beer''': there are a number of excellent local brewpubs in Hawaii. Mehana, Sam Choy's, Honu, Waimea Brewing Company, Liz's Pub, Keoki's and Kona Brewing Company all brew beer in Hawaii or brew it on the mainland and ship it to the islands. The largest of the group is Kona Brewing, which has won several national awards and runs two brew pub restaurants in the islands (one in Kailua Kona, the other in Hawaii Kai on Oahu). '''Cocktails''': The '''mai tai''' is said to have been invented in California, but it's long since been adopted by Hawaii and is well worth trying there. ==Sleep== '''Resorts:''' There are many resorts in Hawaii. Waikiki is famous for its beach and nightlife but is an urban neighborhood, so not necessarily what you might think of as a resort. There are other resorts on the Kona Coast of the Big Island, such as in Waikoloa Village, in Maui, or at Turtle Bay on the northern tip of the Big Island, where there is a resort that is widely known for its sunsets. '''AirBnB:''' It is illegal to list or use AirBnBs outside of tourist districts due to laws on minimum rental periods. Both the person staying and the person listing their unit can be fined up to $10,000 per day they violate this law. ==Learn== Tourists who want to get a taste of Hawaiian culture can sign up for classes in hula, surfing and lei-making at most tourist destinations. There are also a number of cultural and historical centers on [[Oahu]] well worth your time, such as the '''Bishop Museum''' and '''Iolani Palace'''. If you have the money, the time and the inclination, the '''Polynesian Cultural Center''' provides a window into Polynesian culture. As its name implies, the Polynesian Cultural Center covers not just Hawaii but also the cultures of Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Easter Island and the Maori people of New Zealand. The outer islands also have destinations such as Maui Center for Culture and the Arts and the Big Island has the Hilo Art Museum. the Lyman House Museum and the Pacific Tsunami Museum as well as the University of Hawaii's ʻImiloa Astronomy Center and Kula Kai Caverns. For those on a budget, there are many activities you can do on any island that are free. All state parks are free to visit and even some National Parks. When the National Parks are not free, most find them very affordable. Hiking, beaches, snorkeling and other like activities are always free when on public land and there are no private beaches. On the Big Island there are many free ranger programs at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical park and other locations. At the Visitor Information Station on Mauna Kea, you can stay any night of the year between 6PM and 10PM and enjoy a free astronomy tour including large and small telescopes for you to look through. Some hiking and other activities are in National Parks, like Volcanoes so they are at cost, of course. ==Work== The unemployment rate in Hawaii is generally below the average unemployment rate for the country as a whole in Mar 2019, 2.8% vs 3.8%). Hawaii is not an easy place to legally find casual work for non-US work permit holders. To apply for a local government job, by law you must be a Hawaii resident. ==Stay safe== Theft is a big problem in cities as well as beaches and parks. If you are camping on a beach, keep bags locked in a car (but don't assume that they are safe in the trunk, especially if you are driving a rental) and keep valuables in a hidden money belt. Although Hawaii is generally considered relatively safe, it does have some violent crime. Consequently, women should not walk alone in unlit areas. Although Honolulu has one of the lowest violent crime rates of metro areas in the U.S., use your common sense. Stay smart and act as if you were in your own home city: lock doors, lock cars, and don't leave valuables lying around. Some campgrounds now require a permit (this has the effect of moving homeless people away from tourist areas). Be sure to apply for a reserved area and have your permit even in free camping areas especially around Honolulu. Any of the beaches are vulnerable to pickpockets and thieves who break into cars. If you are using a rental car, it is advised you buy a bumper sticker or two to make it seem like you are a local. Paradoxically, keeping the car windows open will prevent break-ins and car damage, as the locals will think there is nothing of worth in the car. As a rule of thumb, do not bring anything to the beach you do not plan on using. If you must bring money, bring a friend to keep it safe. If you are planning a hike in the mountains, monitor local weather reports carefully and use extreme caution in case of rain. Rain is more likely in the mountains, and flash flooding can occur near stream beds with little or no warning. Unsuspecting hikers can drown and be swept downstream. ===Civil defense sirens=== [[File:Pāhoehoe and Aa flows at Hawaii.jpg|thumb|Pāhoehoe lava and ʻaʻā flows on the Big Island, as seen from a helicopter]] Although it is rather rare, the threat of a natural disaster can occur at any time in Hawaii, sometimes with little or no warning. Besides the occasional destructive lava flow on the Big Island and occasionally destructive hurricanes (see Weather in Understand above), Hawaii can also experience [[earthquakes|tsunamis and earthquakes]]. In 1960 the Great Chilean Earthquake (magnitude 9.5) generated a destructive tsunami that devastated Hilo on the Big Island, killing 61 people. In 1992, Hurricane Iniki made a direct hit on Kauai, killing six and causing $1.8 billion in damage. In 2006, most of the state was affected by a magnitude 6.7 quake off Kailua-Kona. No casualties were reported, but it caused extensive property damage and power outages of up to 14 hours on Oahu. Hawaii has a highly developed civil defense system. High-pitched civil defense sirens are tested statewide at 11:45AM on the first working day of each month unless hazardous weather is occurring. Two tones may be tested: a steady alert siren used in the event of imminent natural disaster such as a tsunami, and a wailing tone that oscillates in pitch from high to low, to be used in the event of confirmed, imminent enemy attack. If you hear the '''steady''' tone siren go off at any other time, turn on the nearest radio or television set for emergency information. In the unlikely event you hear the '''wailing''' tone go off at any time, '''seek shelter immediately''' and stay there, and stay tuned to radio or TV for further instructions. ===Natural disasters=== If a [[Cyclones|hurricane or tropical storm]] is expected, you will usually have at least several days' notice, and local media will pass on advisories, watches, and warnings from the National Weather Service. Your hotel will likely have emergency plans; check with them for advice and stay indoors during the high winds and rain that accompany a tropical cyclone. If a [[tsunami]] is expected, you will only have several hours' notice. Either evacuate coastal areas subject to inundation (this includes most of Waikiki), or failing that, find the nearest concrete high-rise hotel and go to the third story or above. '''Follow the instructions of police and first responders at all times. If ordered to evacuate an area, do so quickly.''' ==Stay healthy== '''Hospitals''' in Hawaii meet U.S. standards for care, and can be found in the urban areas of each island. The hospitals in Honolulu are larger and have the most advanced equipment; the hospitals on the neighbor islands provide general care. There is a shortage of specialists on the Neighbor Islands. Depending on where you are and how serious your condition is, you may have to be medically evacuated to Honolulu for treatment. All tourists, including U.S. citizens, should have [[travel insurance]] with medi-evac coverage, which can get you back home, if needed. The main tourist areas of each island have walk-in '''urgent care clinics''' where you can receive non-emergency treatment for whatever ails you. Some clinics even make hotel room calls. Check with the local phone book or your hotel. In Waikiki, try '''Doctors on Call''' (+1 808-971-6000). The clinic is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. '''Pharmacies''' can also be found in most major shopping areas. Mainland customers of CVS who need assistance with prescriptions should look for the nearest branch of '''Longs Drugs''' (the former pharmacy chain had such high brand recognition in Hawaii that CVS chose to retain the brand on its Hawaii locations). '''Walgreens''' has opened numerous locations. If you go hiking in the backcountry or go swimming in freshwater pools in Hawaii, you risk catching '''leptospirosis.''' Leptospirosis generally causes flu-like symptoms; in rare cases it can be fatal; the incubation period can be from 2-30 days after exposure. Do not swim in freshwater pools if you have open sores; see a doctor if you develop flu-like symptoms after hiking or swimming. If you do not have open sores and swim in these areas, the best way to avoid Leptospirosis or any bacteria is to never drink any natural water, no matter how clean it looks. If you are backpacking and this is a must, remember to bring the needed water filters and/or iodine pills to treat your water. Be sure to have travel '''health insurance'''. If you are a U.S. resident with private health insurance, you should consult your insurance carrier to determine what co-payments apply and to what extent your insurance is accepted in Hawaii by doctors and hospitals in the event you need health care while on your trip. However, if you get a job in Hawaii - even a part-time job - you will receive health insurance by state law (presuming that you are a U.S. citizen or have a green card and are therefore legally eligible to work). See ''Stay healthy'' in [[United States of America]] for more information. If you have respiratory problems, be aware of '''volcanic smog (also known as vog)'''. Vog is formed when sulfur dioxide gas from Kilauea mixes with sunlight, water, and dust particles to form a haze made up primarily of sulfur compounds. Normally the northeasterly trade winds blow vog away from the rest of the islands. Southeasterly winds (also known as Kona winds in Hawaii), however, can blow vog toward the other islands. Vog can be a nearly constant presence on the Big Island. While many people in Hawaii can experience symptoms related to vog, it can especially affect those with asthma or other chronic respiratory illness. If you have a respiratory condition and plan to visit the Big Island, consult your doctor for advice. When going to the beach or swimming, always wear '''sunscreen lotion or sun guard''' to protect your skin from burns, as well as hats, covers and sunglasses. The islands are far closer to the equator than most tourists understand, so even if the weather is cooler, the sun's power is still more intense. ==Cope== ===Dress=== Hawaii's laid-back reputation extends to dress: with ideal weather year-round in most places, shorts are always appropriate around the islands. Long pants are fine, too, and you will still be quite comfortable. You ''do'' normally need to wear a shirt in public; going bare-chested is for the beach, although businesses near the beach are tolerant of it, particularly outside of the city. Sandals and flip-flops are always fine for casual wear, but they're always called ''slippers'' or ''slippa'' by locals. Going barefoot off the beach is not common in the cities, but again, businesses tolerate it to some extent. Hawaii has many of the Earth's climates on each small island. Research the locations you plan to visit and dress accordingly, as some areas like Volcanoes National Park or Mauna Kea on the Big Island, or Haleakala National Park on Maui will leave you miserable in shorts and tank tops, as they may have below freezing weather, drenching rain and even snow. For the beach or pool, boardshorts or swimming trunks for men are the most popular, though with so many visitors from Asia, speedos are welcome too. Female toplessness is legal in Hawaii, if uncommon. Swimming nude is illegal, although there are a few isolated beaches on each island where people risk it. Unless you're spending the day trekking from beach to beach, '''save beachwear for the beach''' and wear regular clothes. Businessmen in Hawaii forgo suits and wear slacks with muted aloha shirts. As a visitor, you would be overdressed in a suit; a dress shirt (with or without a tie) and slacks would be fine. If you do wear an aloha shirt for business, pair it with khaki pants or slacks, socks, and dress shoes or loafers, and button all but the top button while at the office. Normally aloha shirts are worn untucked and without an undershirt, but those aspects are up to you. The business aloha shirt extends also to dressing up for fine dining, entertainment, and even church; some preachers wear business aloha shirts for church services. As a visitor, just put on a collared shirt, shoes (such as casual loafers), and, depending on the restaurant you're going to, either shorts or slacks. Ties and jackets will never be necessary. ==Respect== In general, American standards of etiquette (see ''[[United States of America#Respect|Respect]]'' in [[United States of America]]) apply in Hawaii. Hawaii does however have certain cultural differences, owing to the Native Hawaiians and the large population of Asians and people of Asian descent. * As is the custom in many Asian countries, always '''remove your footwear''' when entering the home of an island resident, if so invited. Shoes and sandals are generally left on the front porch or just inside the front door. * '''Hawaiian culture''' should be respected and travelers should be sensitive to the state's rich cultural heritage and diversity — and the fact that the tourist experience of Hawaiian culture may only scratch the surface. For instance, there are many ''heiau'' (temples) in the Islands, where the ancient Hawaiian religion was practiced. Some of these have become tourist attractions in their own right, but visitors should nevertheless treat these places with the same level of respect one would show at a place of worship. To show respect, do not horseplay, rearrange or move any item, and never, ever take any item, including rocks and sand, with you. * If you visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you will no doubt hear about Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes. An urban legend has it that people who have taken '''volcanic rock''' from Hawai'i, not just the park, have suffered various misfortunes; it is believed that it is the wrath of Pele. In any case, it is illegal to take rocks or other material from a national park. It is also unethical and looked down upon to take any rocks, sand or other natural items from the islands, for religious, moral and environmental reasons alike. Take only pictures, leave only footprints. * '''Native Hawaiians do not identify as Native Americans''', as they are culturally and historically distinct from people indigenous to the continental United States. Just stick to the term "Native Hawaiian". * The '''status of Native Hawaiians''' vis-a-vis the U.S. federal government has become a hot topic, with some Native Hawaiian groups seeking a degree of sovereignty for the Hawaiian people as redress for the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy and U.S. annexation in the 1890s. (Honolulu is home to the only royal palace on U.S. soil.) There is no consensus among Native Hawaiians on what form this sovereignty should take, with some preferring the status quo of ordinary citizenship, some seeking a status similar to that of Native Americans, and some wanting complete independence and secession from the Union. In addition, private and government programs that benefit Native Hawaiians have been called into question via a series of lawsuits that have received extensive coverage in local media. Discussions of Hawaiian sovereignty and programs can arouse a variety of strong opinions (both in support and in opposition) among Hawaii residents of all ethnicities, and the uninitiated visitor would be wise to avoid bringing up these topics in casual conversation. With that in mind, there are some subtle differences in English word usage. When talking with Hawaii residents, be aware of the following differences in word usage to avoid miscommunications. * '''Always refer to the continental United States as "the Mainland" rather than "the States."''' Hawaii has been one of "the States" since 1959, and the Hawaiian sovereignty movement notwithstanding (see above), most Hawaii residents are proud to be part of the United States. This is especially true for Japanese-Americans, many of whose relatives served in the celebrated 100th/442nd unit in World War II. Using the term "the States" (implying that Hawaii is somehow foreign) may be seen as naive at best and condescending at worst. However, don't be surprised if some local people are condescending towards you because you are from the mainland. The "local" vs. "mainland" difference is something local people are only too happy to point out. * '''Residents of Hawaii do not necessarily consider themselves "Hawaiian."''' For instance, when asking a Hawaii resident, "Are you a native Hawaiian?" don't be surprised if his reply is "No, I'm Japanese." (Ask instead, "Were you born and raised in Hawaii?") On the Mainland, for example, "Californian" means any person who lives in (or has ties to) California. However, in Hawaii, the terms "Hawaiian" or "native Hawaiian" are reserved to mean someone who is descended from the indigenous people of Hawaii. This definition even appears in state laws. Because Hawaii is made of people of various ethnicities, someone whose family may have lived in Hawaii for generations may still not be Hawaiian by the above definition. To avoid misunderstanding, it is best to refer to Hawaii residents as such: "Islanders", "locals", or "''kamaʻaina''", unless you know for a fact that they are of native Hawaiian descent. Some Native Hawaiians may attribute accidents caused by nature (such as a landslide at Sacred Falls that killed several people) to the Menehune punishing tourists disrespecting the land. Menehune or not, Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places in the world and its sites deserve our respect. Bottom line: respect the land and the people; there may be more there than meets the eye. ==Connect== ===Post=== Hawaii uses the [https://www.usps.com U.S. Postal Service] with zip codes 96701-96898 and a state code of "HI". Postage in Hawaii uses the same rates as the mainland, and is considered domestic for all postal purposes. First class and priority mail do not experience delays, but ground shipments can be much slower. Private companies FedEx and UPS are present in Hawaii, express shipment times are the same, but add 2-3 days for ground shipments. ===Internet=== Free Wi-Fi is widely available, and can easily be found in most cafes and shopping centers. All major hotels offer free Wi-Fi for guests, and it is available at most airports. Public computers are available at public libraries for library cardholders; visitors may purchase a 3-month library card for $10. ===Phone=== Hawaii's area code is '''808'''. All 10 digits must be dialed when making local calls. When dialing any off-island telephone number, dial 1 + area code + phone number. You must include the 808 area code when calling another island. Long distance charges to the mainland, if any, are usually the same standard domestic rates as it would be if calling within the 48 contiguous states. Check with your phone/long distance company to be sure. ==Go next== As Hawaii is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the state has few nearby neighbors. * '''[[California]]''' - The point of departure for many visitors from the continental United States. [[San Francisco]] is over 150 miles closer than [[Los Angeles]] because it's much further west. A few other California cities also have non-stop flights as well. * '''[[Oceania]]''' - Hawaii can be a stepping off point to explore the many islands of the Pacific as well as the countries of '''[[Australia]]''' and '''[[New Zealand]]'''. * '''[[Japan]]''' and '''[[South Korea]]''' - Hawaii is a popular vacation destination for Japanese and Korean tourists there are non-stop flight options with multiple airlines at competitive fares. Flight times are 8 to 9 hours. {{IsPartOf|Polynesia}} {{isPartOf|United States}} {{usableregion}} {{geo|20.54022|-157.49451|zoom=8}} sec0jtqs9h4zqdb1xf085ujyfbi845l 0 14750 5288833 5247397 2026-06-06T12:11:06Z ~2026-33378-46 2418994 /* Get around */ Fares are free 5288833 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Hobart_Wikivoyage_banner_3.jpg|unesco=yes|unesco_cc=yes|dotm=yes}} {{otheruses}} '''Hobart''' is the capital city of [[Tasmania]] and is Australia's second oldest city, after [[Sydney]]. Hobart sits along the Derwent River and began humbly as a penal colony. Hobart is now a small and intimate city with a population of around 255,000 (as of 2024) in the [[Greater Hobart]] area. The city is renowned for its many historic buildings, including the famous Salamanca Place, and is the gateway to [[Southern Tasmania]]. Hobart played a major role during the heroic age of Antarctic exploration and is one of the five gateway cities to [[Antarctica]]. ==Understand== [[File:Hobart TAS Australia 1.jpg|thumb|right|View of the Hobart central business district and Mt Wellington from Constitution Dock]] ===History=== Founded in 1804 by Colonel David Collins, Hobart is the second oldest city in Australia. It grew out of the penal settlement on the island at Risdon Cove, 8 km upriver, which was founded in 1803 and abandoned five months later for the present site of Hobart. In the first half of the 1800s, the whaling boom generated a surge in maritime support industries and infrastructure. Whaling ceased in the late 1800s, but Hobart never lost its boat-building, ship-chandlery and provedoring legacy. This made Hobart a logical staging post in the heroic age of Antarctic exploration. France’s Dumont d’Urville, Australia’s Douglas Mawson, England’s James Clark Ross, and Norway’s Carsten Borchgrevink and [[Voyages of Roald Amundsen|Roald Amundsen]] all paused in the Derwent on their way to Antarctica. In December 1911, the Australasian Antarctic Expedition led by Mawson was given a rousing send-off from Hobart’s Sullivans Cove. A few months later, Amundsen brought ''Fram'' into Hobart in order to send a telegram to the King of Norway with the news that his party had reached the South Pole. After sending the telegram, Amundsen publicly announced his feat from the Hobart General Post Office sandstone steps. A few months later, Mawson’s Antarctic party sent the first wireless messages from Antarctica to the outside world – to a receiving station on Hobart’s Queens Domain. ===Climate=== {{BOM|Hobart|hobart|tas}} {{climate chart |Hobart |13.0 |22.7 |43.7 |12.8 |22.2 |37.8 |11.6 |20.7 |37.0 |9.4 |17.9 |42.6 |7.6 |15.3 |39.2 |5.5 |12.7 |46.0 |5.2 |12.6 |44.5 |5.6 |13.7 |63.0 |6.9 |15.7 |55.6 |8.3 |17.6 |52.8 |10.0 |19.1 |50.7 |11.6 |21.0 |53.0 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Hobart]] | description = Check '''Hobart's 7 day forecast''' at [http://www.bom.gov.au/tas/forecasts/hobart.shtml BOM.gov.au] }} Hobart has a '''mild temperate oceanic climate''' owing to its fairly southerly latitude (42.88°S) and proximity to the Southern Ocean. As such, daily temperatures typically peak around {{c|21}} for average summer highs. Only during the uncommon heat wave, can summer temperatures rise upwards to around {{c|28}} and not go below {{c|17}} at night. Nightly lows typically range around {{c|13}} during summer and {{c|5}} in winter, so cold weather gear is recommended all year round. So, even in summer, you should always '''bring a jumper''' just in case, and in the coldest months (May, June, July, August and September), pack layers. It is not unheard of for temperatures to drop below zero during winter, with Hobart's lowest temperature on record being a chilly -2.8°C, with sleet sometimes occurring and in the outer suburbs it even snows. Interestingly, Hobart has the second fewest daily hours of sunlight out of all Australian cities, at 5.9 hours on average for the year. The sun is only up between 7:30AM and 4:45PM in the winter months. However, during the summer it has the most hours of daylight of any Australian city, with 15.2 hours on the summer solstice, with daylight from 5:30AM to 8:45PM. '''Rainfall''' is fairly similar year round, averaging 50 mm per month, occurring around 15 days a month during winter and 10 days a month during summer. Despite the cold weather and occasional rainfall you should not expect to see any snow within Hobart, although it is not unheard of. The city receives snowfall at sea level on average only once every 15 years, caused by cold masses arriving from [[Antarctica]]. More often, some outlying suburbs of Hobart at higher elevation can receive snowfall. The nearby Mount Wellington is often seen snowcapped during winter, and its temperatures are much colder than Hobart — typically 10 degrees colder and easily reaching below zero during winter. ===Visitor information=== * {{listing | name=Tasmania Travel & Information Centre: Hobart| alt= | url=http://www.hobarttravelcentre.com.au/home | email=bookings@hobarttravelcentre.com.au | address=20 Davey St | lat=-42.88314 | long=147.33168 | directions=Cnr Davey St & Elizabeth St | phone=+61 3 6238 4222 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 8:30AM-5:30PM (9AM-5PM during Jun-Aug), Sa Su 9AM-5PM | price= | content=A great place to find information about Hobart and the rest of Tasmania. They can also help to book any activities or accommodation that you require. }} * [http://www.discovertasmania.com.au/about/regions-of-tasmania/hobart-and-south/hobart Tourism information for Hobart] from Discover Tasmania ==Get in== ===By plane=== *{{go | name=Hobart International Airport | alt={{IATA|HBA}} | url=http://hobartairport.com.au | email= | address= | lat=-42.8371 | long=147.5055 | directions=situated {{km|15}} north east of Hobart in Cambridge | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Hobart International Airport | image=Hobart Airportview.jpg | wikidata=Q15498 |lastedit=2023-09-14| content=The primary airport serving southern Tasmania. Despite being called an international airport, there is only one international destination, being Auckland }} Airlines serving the airport include [http://www.jetstar.com.au/ Jetstar], [http://www.qantas.com.au/ Qantas], and [http://www.virginaustralia.com/ Virgin Australia] with flights from: * [[Brisbane]] operated by Jetstar and Virgin Australia. * [[Melbourne]] operated by Jetstar, Qantas, and Virgin Australia. * [[Sydney]] operated by Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin Australia. *[[Adelaide]] operated by Jetstar *[[Perth]] operated by Qantas, and Virgin Australia *[[Auckland]] operated by Air New Zealand '''Ground transportation''' options from Hobart Airport include an '''airport shuttle''' operated by [https://www.skybus.com.au/ SkyBus] which meets every arriving flight and serves most accommodation within Hobart. Reservations are not necessary for Hobart bound trips on this shuttle, but are required for the return leg to the airport. A ticket costs $22/38 for adults and $19/35 for children or pensioners for one-way/return trips respectively. Those wanting a faster or more direct option should consider taking a '''taxi'''. Depending on traffic the journey should take around 20-25 minutes and cost approximately $38-45. '''Car rental''' is also available at Hobart Airport with rental companies including [http://www.avis.com.au/ Avis], [https://www.bargaincarrentals.com.au/ Bargain Car Rentals], [http://www.budget.com.au/ Budget], [http://www.europcar.com.au/ Europcar], [http://www.hertz.com.au Hertz], [https://www.redspot.com.au/ Red Spot] and [https://www.thrifty.com.au/locations/tas/hobart Thrifty]. All of the car rental offices are just past the arrivals gates on the way to the exit Hobart has a small airport for the volume of passenger traffic it often accommodates. You'll have no problem finding the cafes, bars, and bookshops that are mandatory airport fare, and a souvenir shop. On the positive side you can expect to get your luggage quickly through onto the conveyor. On the negative side, there isn't enough seating in the departure lounge for a few full flights departing simultaneously. You'll still be walking across the tarmac to get on your flight. ===By car=== Hobart can be easily reached from all other cities and towns in Tasmania by car. Driving from [[Launceston]] via National Highway 1 takes around 2.5&nbsp;hrs with car hire available from the airport or in Launceston itself. You can also take a car from mainland Australia via [[Devonport]], with a ferry departing nightly from [[Melbourne]]. The journey from Devonport takes around 4&nbsp;hrs. ===By boat=== Hobart offers a beautiful deep-water port with cruise ship berths in the heart of the historic Salamanca area of the city. Large cruise ships dock at Macquarie Wharf. Volunteer greeters meet the cruise ships, answer questions, and point the way. The immediate area, which includes Constitution and Victoria Docks, offers shopping for art, crafts, clothing and souvenirs; light snacks and food; fishing boats; a yacht basin; and the maritime museum. [https://www.tasports.com.au/hobart-schedule#cruise Hobart cruise ship calendar] ===By bus=== {{marker| type=listing | name=Hobart Transit Centre| url=| lat=-42.88518 | long=147.32313}} 230 Liverpool Street is where [https://www.wearekinetic.com/au/launceston-north-east Kinetic] (formerly Red Line Coaches) arrive from Devonport via Launceston, with one or two services most days. {{marker| type=listing | name=Brisbane St Terminus| url=| lat=-42.87936 | long=147.32377}} is where [http://www.tassielink.com.au Tassielink] coaches arrive from Devonport via Launceston, East Coast, Port Arthur and the West coast. The [https://reddecker.com.au/ Red Decker] Hop-on Hop-off Bus connects Hobart (city loop tourist attractions), Mt. Wellington, and Richmond village. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|-42.879|147.323|zoom=13}}{{mapshape}} ===By boat=== [https://derwentferries.com.au Derwent Ferries] operates services between Brooke Street Pier in the city and Bellerive Pier in Bellerive. There are no services on Sundays. All services have been totally free since 2026! Sightseeing cruises and water taxis operate services between Brooke Street Pier in the city and outlying piers along the River Derwent. Some of these services include onboard dining. ===By bus=== [https://www.metrotas.com.au Metro] operates services throughout the city and surrounding suburbs. Hobart Interchange is located in front of the GPO (General Post Office) on Elizabeth Street in the city. All services have been totally free since 2026! ===By car=== [[File:Southern Outlet, Hobart.jpg|thumb|The Southern Outlet is one of the three freeways in and around Hobart]] Hobart is the favourite launching off point for visitors keen to explore other areas of Tasmania. A car is certainly the best and most convenient way of getting to the more rural and scenic spots.  As most domestic travellers arrive by plane, there are plenty of options for car hires at Hobart Airport. Roads west of the Derwent River are generally not congested, although you can expect to pay for parking in the city areas. Hobart City Council operates an app that can be used to pay for car parking. Avoid driving in the Salamanca area on a Saturday, due to road closures and traffic snarls due to the markets. ===By bicycle=== Hobart is hilly any which way you choose to head, so bike riders should be prepared for hills. There is a poorly developed network of off-road cyclepaths, but Hobart drivers tend to be tolerant of cyclists, and most roads tend to be wide enough to accommodate them. One old railway line from the city as far as Claremont has been converted to a first-class cycle and walking path (take care from motor vehicles at intersections). ===By foot=== Walking is the best way to explore the downtown area. It is easy to walk between the city centre, Salamanca, and the port/harbour area. If you are staying in the Salamanca area, you may not need any other form of transport. Between the City Centre and Sandy Bay via Battery Point is only half an hour to walk (although there are some hills). ==See== ===Buildings and landmarks=== As one of Australia's oldest cities, Hobart is home to a multitude of historical buildings that often showcase splendid examples of Georgian and Victorian architecture. In fact, over 90 buildings within Hobart are classified by the National Trust, with around 60 of them along Macquarie St and Davey St alone. Many, but not all, of the historical buildings are located within or near Hobart's Central Business District (CBD) or around Battery Point. [[File:Cascades Female Factory.jpg|thumbnail|Cascades Female Factory]] * {{see | name=Battery Point | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-42.8882 | long=147.3335 | directions=behind Salamanca Place | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2018-02-17| content=The area is named after a battery of guns put on the point in 1818. The guns were eventually removed for fear the residential homes would come under fire in the event of an invasion. Thanks to a green ban in the 1970s, most of Battery Points original Georgian architecture remains intact, and today it is still home to one of Australia's oldest subdivisions and few planned circus', Arthur Circus. If you venture deep within Battery Point, you may stumble upon {{marker| type=see | name=Nanny Goat Lane | lat=-42.89202 | long=147.33066}}, a well-known steep laneway with superb views of the suburbs at the top and a whimsical sign to match its odd name. }} * {{see | name=Cascades Female Factory | alt= | url=http://www.femalefactory.org.au/ | email=reservations@femalefactory.org.au | address=16 Degraves St | lat=-42.8939 | long=147.2994 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6233 6656 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 9:30AM-4PM | price=Entry: $5; entry + tour: adult $15, child $10; ''Her Story'' show: adult $20, child $12.50 | content= This site operated as a female factory between 1828 and 1856, which was intended to reform female convicts and segregate them from the "temptations" of Hobart. The ladies of this female factory were often completing many chores, such as needlework and laundry. The factory is now one of 11 penal sites that make up the Australian Convict Sites on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. A daily Heritage tour runs several times daily and an additional show, title ''Her Story'', runs daily at 11AM. }} * {{see | name=Kangaroo Bluff Historic Site | alt= | url=https://parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/kangaroo-bluff-historic-site | email= | address=Victoria Esplanade | lat=-42.881287 | long=147.367183 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-02-04 | content=The historic site was built for Hobart's defence after Russian warships appeared in the harbour in 1873. }} [[File:Lascar Parliament House (Hobart) (4551936219).jpg|thumb|290px|The sandstone facade of Parliament House]] * {{see | name=Parliament House of Tasmania | alt= | url=http://www.parliament.tas.gov.au/ | email=tours@parliament.tas.gov.au | address= | lat=-42.8856 | long=147.3304 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6212 2248 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Built as a customs house, the Parliament House of Tasmania opened in 1840, but came to serve solely as the state's Parliament House in 1904. The building comprises 3 levels with various areas including the House of Assembly, Legislative Council, Parliamentary Library and Parliamentary Museum. Tours of the Parliament are available to the public which run on non-sitting days(See their website for non-sitting days) at 10AM or 2PM. Another option would be to sit in the public gallery during sitting days. }} * {{see | name=Penitentiary Chapel | alt= | url=http://www.penitentiarychapel.com/ | email= | address=Cnr Brisbane St & Campbell St | lat=-42.8773 | long=147.3269 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6231 0911 | tollfree= | hours=Day tour: F Su 10AM, 11:30AM, 1PM, 2:30PM, Sa 1PM, 2:30PM; ghost tour: M F by appointment | price=Day tour: adult $12, concession $10, child $5; ghost tour: adult $15, child/concession $10 | content=This historic site was built as a chapel for male convicts, built with solitary confinement cells underneath the building and was converted into a supreme criminal court and prison chapel, complete with gallows and an execution yard. The site can only be visited by tours which run during the day, or a ghost tour that runs at night. }} * {{see | name=Salamanca Place | alt= | url=http://www.salamanca.com.au/ | email= | address= | lat=-42.88671 | long=147.33287 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Named after the main street that this area runs along, Salamanca Place is home to rows of colonial style sandstone buildings that were once warehouses built to service the 19th-century whaling industry. Today this area has been converted into a precinct of restaurants, bars, galleries and craft shops. Make sure you venture behind the row of shops along Salamanca Place as there are lots to explore around this area. Salamanca Place is also home to the famous [[Hobart#Buy| Salamanca Markets]] every Saturday. }} * {{see | name=Shot Tower | alt= | url=https://parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/shot-tower | email= | address=Channel Hwy | lat=-42.95798 | long=147.33748 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6227 8885 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-5PM (in winter 9AM-4PM) | price=Adult $8, child $4, under 5 free | wikidata=Q24895572 | content=This historic landmark boasts the titles of being the first shot tower in Australia and the tallest shot tower in the southern hemisphere. Built in 1870, the Shot Tower is 48&nbsp;m tall and made from sandstone, just like many of Hobart's historic buildings. You can climb the 259 wooden steps to the top of the tower which pays off with exceptional views the Derwent Estuary and countryside. }} * {{see | name=Sullivan's Cove | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-42.88262 | long=147.33433 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This area is home to Hobart's main waterfront area and was the original landing point by European settlers in 1804. Most locals come here to sit, relax and, if hungry, enjoy some of Tasmania's finest seafood. '''Constitution Dock''', within the cove, is particularly famous as it is the finishing point of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race which is held from Boxing Day (December 26) each year. }} * {{See|name=Government House|lat=42.86757|long=147.33377|directions=Adjacent to the Hobart Botanic Gardens|lastedit=2022-03-23|content=Government House is one of Australia's largest Gothic Revival residences, built in 1857 and still home to the Governor of Tasmania. Keep an eye out for one of the open days, as it is well worth a visit to the vice-regal residence. It is visible from the highway and Tasman bridge}} * {{see | name=Franklin Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-42.8775 | long=147.336111 | directions=between the Hobart CBD and Sullivans Cove, on the Macquarie Street ridge | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Franklin Square (Hobart) | wikidata=Q16891425 | lastedit=2020-05-15 | content=This oak-lined public space in Central Hobart is named after the explorer [[Voyages of John Franklin|Sir John Franklin]]. Between voyages, he served as Lieutenant-Governor of Van Diemen's Land (as Tasmania was then known) from 1837 to 1843. The centrepiece of the park is a statue of him, with an epitaph by Alfred, Lord Tennyson. }} ===Museums and art galleries=== One of Hobart's biggest cultural drawcards is the multitude of museums and art galleries that are dotted around the city. Many of the exhibits, particularly in the museums, have a distinct [http://www.antarctictasmania.com/home/antarctic_attractions Antarctic theme]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, a result of Hobart's long history of being a Gateway City to East Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is among the best museums in Australia has and has fast become a Hobart icon. * {{see | name=Allport Library and Museum of Fine Arts | alt= | url=https://libraries.tas.gov.au/allport/Pages/Allport.aspx | email= | address=91 Murray St | lat=42.88194 | long=147.32455 | directions=inside the State Library building; access through the back of the foyer | phone=+61 3 6165 5584 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free to the public | wikidata=Q61099760 | lastedit=2021-04-25 | content=Allport Museum is a collection of the family library, art and colonial furniture of an extinct local family. Its public display includes a recreation of the Allport family's house, decorated in 16th- to 19th-century furnishings. There is also a rotating art exhibition of historic and contemporary works. }} * For the '''Australian Antarctic Division''', see Wikivoyage's article on [[Kingston (Tasmania)#See|Kingston]]. It's an Australian government institute that has a visitor centre open to the public. * {{see | name=Australian Army Museum Tasmania | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anglesea Barracks, Davey St | lat=-42.8886 | long=147.3255 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6237 7160 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu Th Sa 9AM-1PM | price=Adult $5, child $1 | wikipedia=Australian Army Museum Tasmania | content=It's within the grounds of the historic '''Anglesea Barracks''', which were established in 1811. This museum covers Tasmania's military history. While the barracks remain an active Australian Defence Force base it is open to the public, and has interesting displays of weapons and several historically significant monuments. These include the only war memorial to have been erected by the many British Army units which undertook garrison duties in colonial Australia. They also offer a guided tour of the barracks on Tuesday at 11AM. | wikidata=Q4348847}} * {{see | name=Maritime Museum of Tasmania | alt= | url=http://www.maritimetas.org/ | email=info@maritimetas.org | address=16 Argyle St | lat=-42.88265 | long=147.33163 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 1427 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 9AM-5PM | price=Adult $9, concession $7, student $5, child free | content=This museum houses the largest collection of maritime artefacts in Tasmania. Displays include information on the early maritime history of Tasmania, the role of lighthouses, the whaling industry, maritime trade, boat building and shipping. }} * {{see | name=Mawson’s Huts Replica Museum | alt= | url=http://www.mawsons-huts-replica.org.au/ | email=info@mawsons-huts.org.au | address=5a Morrison St | lat=-42.88311 | long=147.33224 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6231 1518 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-6PM (Nov–Mar), 10AM-5PM (Apr–Oct) | price=Adult $12, concession $10, child $4 | content=One of Hobart's newest attractions, this museum is a replica of the base stations constructed for Douglas Mawson's Australiasian Antarctic expedition of 1911. It features amenities and conditions that would have been experienced by those who first lived inside the huts. }} [[File:MONA from the water.jpg|250px|thumb|Arriving at MONA on the ferry]] * {{anchor|MONA}}{{anchor|Mona}} {{see | name=Museum of Old and New Art | alt=MONA | url=http://mona.net.au/ | email=info@mona.net.au | address=655 Main Rd | lat=-42.8127 | long=147.2612 | directions=Brooke St Pier or Metrobus 42, 111, 117-122, X1-X3 | phone=+61 3 6277 9900 | tollfree= | hours=F-M 10AM-5PM, book in advance | price=Adult $35, concession $30, under 18 $10, Tasmanian residents free with $10 deposit, under 12 free | wikipedia=Museum of Old and New Art | wikidata=Q2353030 | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=This eccentric, world-class museum of contemporary art has created a buzz in Hobart. Visitor opinions diverge from spectacular, to confronting to "I just don't see what the fuss is about". The museum has a decidedly adult feel, so may not be the ideal place for kids. For those who don't get it, there are impressive views over the Derwent River along with a cafe and Morilla Winery on site. The building itself is quite interesting and is worth a look at. There are also some "traditional art" pieces, including some mummies. Ferries run at least five times a day from Brooke St Pier which offers a scenic journey along the Derwent River. Bookings for the ferry are required and cost $20 one-way or return. You can also drive to MONA, with limited parking, or go by bus. }} [[File:TMAG entrance.jpg|thumb|250px|The colonial style exterior of TMAG]] * {{see | name=Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery | alt=TMAG | url=http://www.tmag.tas.gov.au/ | email=tmagmail@tmag.tas.gov.au | address=Dunn Pl | lat=-42.88208 | long=147.33205 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6211 4134 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Free, special exhibits may require paid entry | content=Established in 1843 by the Royal Society of Tasmania, TMAG is an impressive natural history museum, art gallery and herbarium in one. It boasts various exhibits with Tasmanian, Australian and International themes. Displays include wildlife collections, the history of Tasmania, medal and coin collections, indigenous collections, contemporary art and classical art galleries. Islands to Ice is an exciting permanent exhibition of Antarctic natural history, exploration and science that also gives an insight to what it is like to live and work in some of the most inhospitable climates on earth. It is a must see for all Antarctic enthusiasts. }} * {{See |name=Lady Franklin Gallery|alt=Ancanthe|url=https://artstas.com.au/ |address=268 Lenah Valley Road, Lenah Valley|lat=-42.86601|long=147.27805|directions=within Ancanthe Park |lastedit=2022-03-23 |content=Built by Lady Franklin, wife of the governor, in 1842 at her own expense in the style of a Greek temple, the Gallery was entrusted to a local society but neglected for decades after Lady Franklin departed Tasmania, until it was finally handed to the Art Society of Tasmania and since 1948 it has been lovingly restored by the Art Society of Tasmania and now hosts rotating exhibitions of local art. }} * {{see | name=Moonah Arts Centre | alt= | url=https://www.moonahartscentre.org.au/ | email= | address=23-27 Albert Rd, Moonah | lat=-42.848240 | long=147.295274 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-23 | content=A state of the art regional art center designed by Morrison Breytenbach, showing rotating local art exhibitions and hosting community arts activities. }} === Nature and wildlife === [[File:Snow on kunyanyi-Mount Wellington.jpg|thumb|250px|The zig-zag path towards kunyanyi / Mount Wellington]] * {{see | name=Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary | alt= | url=http://bonorong.com.au/ | email=info@bonorong.com.au | address=593 Briggs Rd | lat=-42.70872 | long=147.27151 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6268 1184 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-5PM | price=Adult $25, child $11, under 3 free. Daily tour free, private tours $149-179 | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=Established in 1981, this wildlife sanctuary cares for injured and orphaned wildlife, with all proceeds going to maintaining the park. The park is home to wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, koalas, Tasmanian devils, and a more than 100-year-old cockatoo. Included in admission is a bag of kangaroo feed for the troop of kangaroos in a large enclosure at the back – the kangaroos will eat out of your hand and love getting chest scratches. Tours are held several times a day where they introduce you to the current residents of the sanctuary. They also help discuss ways to help local wildlife if you ever spot one in danger or notice roadkill. Private tours are also available for those willing to pay, which are exceptional and allow for you to get up close and personal with the wildlife. }} * {{see | name=Mount Nelson | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nelson Rd | lat=-42.92425 | long=147.34409 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A lookout that is a great, but lower altitude, alternative to the more popular Mount Wellington, still with some impressive views of Hobart and the Derwent River. There is also a restaurant and a picnic area at the top so you can bask in the views while having a bite to eat. For those who enjoy a leisurely trek there are two walks to climb up or down the mountain that lead to Sandy Bay near Wrest Point Casino or through the Truganini Reserve to the Channel Highway. }} * {{see | name=Mount Wellington | alt=Indigenous name Kunanyi | url=https://www.wellingtonpark.org.au/ | email=info@wellingtonpark.org.au | address=Wellington Park | lat=-42.8963 | long=147.2376 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6238 2176 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free | wikipedia=Mount Wellington (Tasmania) |lastedit=2019-03-05| content=Situated within Wellington Park, Mt Wellington peaks at 1,270&nbsp;m with breathtaking views of the Derwent River and Greater Hobart Region. At the top of the road up the mountain is the Pinnacle Observation Shelter, an indoor viewing area with binoculars. There are also several other lookouts on the way up to the peak. Your main options for heading up the mountain include taking your own car, going with a private tour operator or walking, if you are adventurous. Temperatures at the summit can range from 4-13°C in summer to -2-4°C in winter, so be sure to bring along warm clothes. It will often be 10-15° cooler at the top of Mt Wellington than it is in Hobart. There are multiple activities to do on the mountains, including cycling and hiking. See the [[Hobart#Do| Do]] section below for more information. | wikidata=Q204552}} * {{see | name=Queens Domain |alt=The Domain | url= | email= | address=Off Brooker Ave | lat=-42.8664 | long=147.3237 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Walk from the city a few blocks towards the Tasman bridge and you'll suddenly be out of the city and amongst greenery and trees on the Domain. (Head towards the bridge from the city but once you see greenery head up the hill towards it.) Of note is the fact that you can '''always''' be sure to see plenty of parrots in the trees. They are relatively tame so it's a superb opportunity to see some brightly coloured parrots up close. }} * {{see | name=Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens | alt= | url=http://www.rtbg.tas.gov.au/ | email=rtbg@rtbg.tas.gov.au | address=Lower Domain Rd, Queens Domain | lat=-42.86594 | long=147.329935 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6236 3076 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily, Oct-Mar: 8AM-6:30PM, Apr-Sep: 8AM-5PM | price=Entry by donations | content=Established in 1818 within the grounds of The Domain. The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens showcase 6,500 species, including over 400 Tasmanian species. One of the most popular displays here is the Subantarctic Plant House, which contains subantarctic plant species collected by staff from [[Macquarie Island]] and is climate controlled to mimic cold high latitude environments. Other collections include traditional Japanese and Chinese gardens, a rain garden, a lily pond and the Tasmanian Fernery. }} === The stars and aurora === Hobart is one of the most easily accessible places to view the [[Northern Lights#The Southern Lights|'''Southern Lights''']] or '''''Aurora Australis'''''. Your chances depend on the space weather, and to have a good chance of seeing the aurora you'll want a K-Index above 6. You can see the current K-Index (updated every 20 minutes) at the [https://www.sws.bom.gov.au/ Australia Space Weather Services]. They have forecasts there for space weather for the next several days. ==Do== [[File:HOBART WATERFRONT STATUARY.jpg|thumb|Hobart waterfront statuary: Antarctic explorers]] * '''Polar Pathways''' is a historical walking and driving tour of Hobart’s associations with Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. They include bronze statues commemorating the exploits of explorers and Hadley’s Hotel where Roald Amundsen stayed in March 1912 after his journey from the South Pole. Go to the Tasmania Travel Information Centre and pick up a Polar Pathways brochure and map. * {{do | name=Bellerive Oval | alt=Blundstone Arena | url=https://www.blundstonearena.com.au/ | email= | address=15 Derwent St, Bellerive | lat=-42.8772 | long=147.3736 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bellerive Oval | lastedit=2023-09-11 | content=With a capacity of 19,500, this hosts the Tasmania State cricket team, Hobart Hurricanes in Big Bash T20 cricket league, and in winter is a secondary ground for North Melbourne AFL. }} ===Cinema=== * {{do | name=State Cinema | alt= | url=http://www.statecinema.com.au/ | email= | address=375 Elizabeth St | lat=-42.87229 | long=147.31478 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 6318 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM-9PM | price= | content=A local independent cinema that is over 100 years old and has witnessed many changes in its lifetime from silent black and white films through to the modern technology of today. This cinema specialises in a variety of movies including local, Australian and International film which tend away from the typical blockbuster and mainstream genres. Along with 8 theatres, a bar, a cafe and a bookshop there is also a rooftop cinema which is open during the warmer months. }} * {{do | name=Village Cinemas | alt= | url=http://villagecinemas.com.au/cinemas/hobart | email= | address=181 Collins St | lat=-42.88580 | long=147.32381 | directions= | phone=1300 555 400 (local rate) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM-9:30PM | price= | content=Village is an Australia-wide cinema that has several locations within Hobart, with the Collins St cinema being their main CBD outlet. They primarily screen mainstream and blockbuster movies. }} ===Gambling=== [[File:Wrest Point Casino.jpg|thumb|Wrest Point Hotel Casino, looking very 1970s]] If you find gambling and betting entertaining then Hobart has a modest set of venues for you to explore. The most well known is Wrest Point Casino, which happens to be the very first legal casino built in Australia. Other options include the local racecourse for horse and hound racing along with various lotteries and statewide betting agencies. * {{do | name=Elwick Racecourse | alt=Ladbrokes Park Elwick | url=https://www.trchobart.com.au/ | email= | address=6 Goodwood Rd | lat=-42.8241 | long=147.2874 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6272 9492 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7688404 | content=The local racecourse that hosts horse racing and greyhound racing with around 102 race meeting and 210 trial days per year. The main yearly race event is the Hobart Cup, Tasmania's primary thoroughbred horse race held on in February each year. }} * {{do | name=Wrest Point Hotel Casino | alt= | url=http://www.wrestpoint.com.au/ | email=email@wrestpoint.com.au | address=410 Sandy Bay Rd | lat=-42.9019 | long=147.3363 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6211 1750 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=?AM-5AM | price= | content=Boasting the title of Australia's first casino, Wrest Point have been renovated several times but still feel like it is somewhat stuck in the 1970s. It still functions perfectly fine as a casino or for a drink. There are various restaurants and bars throughout the complex including a French cuisine inspired revolving restaurant at the top of the tower. On the gambling front, the offering is modest. Most of the gaming areas are poker machines (slot machines), and the table gaming floor is quite small and approachable. }} ===Factory tours=== * {{do | name=Cascade Brewery | alt= | url=https://www.cascadebreweryco.com.au/ | email= | address=140 Cascade Rd | lat=-42.8957 | long=147.2932 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6224 1117 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-4PM | price=Brewery tour: adult $25, senior or concession $20. Heritage tour: adult $15, child $8 | wikidata=Q5048113 | content=Australia's oldest brewery offers two tours for you to enjoy. The Brewery Tour explores within the brewery where you learn about their primary beers and how they are produced before visiting the Woodstock Gardens. This tour includes 3 drink tokens to use during the tour, and is only for people above 16 years old who do not require a walking aid. ​Visitors taking the brewery tour must wear flat, covered shoes and long pants. The alternative Heritage Tour is for people of all ages and explores the surrounding area of the brewery including the gardens and the Cascade museum, with tastings of beers provided for those above the age of 18. Both tours run for around 1.5&nbsp;hours. }} * {{do | name=Moo Brew | alt= | url=http://moobrew.com.au/ | email=info@moobrew.com.au | address=76a Cove Hill Rd | lat=-42.73421 | long=147.24741 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6277 9900 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=F 12:45PM-1:45PM | price=$30 | content=This microbrewery specialises in making five types of beer: a Pilsner, a German-style Hefeweizen, a Belgian Pale Ale, an American Pale Ale and an American Dark Ale. The beer ingredients are kept simple and are unpasteurised, with no preservatives or additives. Their tour gives you a behind the scenes look at just how they make their beers along with samples. A complimentary bus operates from Brooke St Pier in the city at noon and stops at MONA to pick up any extra passengers around 12:30PM. There is also ample parking on-site. }} ===Scenic tours=== * '''Walk''', the tourist information centre has a free booklet of walks in Hobart and up Mt Wellington. Kingston has a similar booklet * {{do | name=Mount Wellington Descent | alt= | url=https://underdownunder.com.au/tour/mount-wellington-descent/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=From $95 pp | content=Provides downhill bicycle tours from the summit of Mt Wellington, with transport from Hobart included. }} *[https://mtwellingtonexplorer.com.au/ '''Mount Wellington Shuttle''']. Bus that takes you to the top of Mt Wellington and spend some time looking out over the city before bringing you back to the city centre. Includes a tour guide that provides information on the drive up. * {{do | name=Sightseeing cruises | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-09-13 | content=There are several options for taking a cruise from Hobart, including harbour cruises, river cruises, and even longer expeditions to explore the surrounding areas. Some cruise operators offer combined packages that include other activities, such as wildlife encounters, wine tastings, or guided tours. }} ** {{do | name=Peppermint Bay Cruise | alt= | url=http://peppermintbay.com.au | email= | address=Brooke St Pier, Sullivans Cove | lat=-42.8846 | long=147.3325 | directions= | phone=1300 137 919 (local rate) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Departs 11AM, Returns 4PM | price=Adult $98, child $68 | content=You start off in Hobart and board a passenger yacht (catamaran), which takes you for a cruise around the bay. On the way to Peppermint Bay the crew points out different sites like Salmon Farms, Local Sealife, and geographic wonders. When you arrive at Peppermint Bay you are treated to a Tasmanian clambake, of clam chowder, fish, and rock lobster. The restaurant decor includes rich hardwood floors and a wall that is completely made of glass so that you can enjoy the picturesque scenery. }} ===Theatre & music=== Hobart is fast becoming a cultural hub within Tasmania and boasts some well known theatres and music venues, including the famous Theatre Royal. Those looking for local music gigs should check out [http://thedwarf.com.au/gig-guide/Tasmania '''The Dwarf Gig Guide'''] for Tasmania. The guide has information on all live music gigs for the next month in advance. * {{do | name=Federation Concert Hall | alt= | url=http://www.tso.com.au/ | email= boxoffice@tso.com.au | address=1 Davey St | lat=-42.8804 | long=147.3342 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6232 4450 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Established in 2000, the Federation Concert Hall is home to the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. The concert hall is an international standard venue and one of Hobart's premier entertainment venues. It is connected to the adjacent Hotel Grand Chancellor, with a 1100-seat capacity in the hall and also additional conference and exhibition rooms.}} * {{do | name=Peacock Theatre | alt=Salamanca Arts Centre | url=http://www.salarts.org.au/venue/peacock-theatre/ | email= | address=77 Salamanca Pl | lat=-42.88683 | long=147.33381 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 8414 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of Hobart's smaller theatres, seating 165, the Peacock is located in the heart of the historic Salamanca Place. The stage itself has a natural sandstone backdrop, owing to the fact the theatre was built into the foot of a quarry. }} * {{do | name=Theatre Royal | alt= | url=http://www.theatreroyal.com.au/ | email= | address=29 Campbell St | lat=-42.87951 | long=147.33115 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6233 2299 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Tour: adults $12, concession/pensioners $10 | content=Hobart's famous theatre, and Australia's oldest, that opened in 1837 and has been saved from demolition on countless occasions. The interior fittings of the theatre contrast striking red velvet seating and curtains against white and gold walls with intricate detailing. You don't have to watch a show to visit the theatre as a 45-minute tour operates on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11AM. }} * {{do | name=Odeon Theater | alt= | url=https://www.odeontheatre.com.au/ | email=info@odeontheatre.com.au | address=167 Liverpool St | lat=-42.883 | long=147.3246 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-23 | content=Once the most luxurious cinema in Tasmania, the Odeon is now a premier live music and comedy destination, leased by the Museum of New and Old Art. During the annual arts festivals MONA FOMA and Dark MOFO, it is the home of significant art installations, and operates as a music venue the rest of the year. }} * {{do | name=The Playhouse Theatre | alt= | url=http://playhouse.org.au/ | email= | address=106 Bathurst St | lat=-42.88139 | long=147.32507 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 1536 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another one of Hobart's theatres, it was built as a chapel. While it is not as opulent as the Theatre Royal, The Playhouse still has some charm and hosts many plays throughout the year. Be sure to check out its website for what's on. }} ===Wineries=== [[File:Granton Vineyard among the grapevines.jpg|thumb|It's nearly harvest time]] The Greater Hobart region is part of the '''Southern Wine Route''' in Tasmania. Owing to the cool climate this region is known for producing a superb range of cool-climate wines including cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, gewurztraminer, pinot gris, pinot noir, riesling and sauvignon blanc. Hobart's primary wine growing region, Coal River Valley, lies just east of the Derwent River around Cambridge and [[Richmond (Tasmania)| Richmond]]. There are also other wineries around Hobart, including north around the [[Derwent Valley]] and west around the [[Huon Trail]]. Be sure to check out [http://winetasmania.com.au/ '''Wine Tasmania'''], which has further information on Tasmania's wine regions. * {{do | name=Charles Reuben Estate | url= | email= | address=777 Middle Tea Tree Road, Tea Tree 7017 | lat=-42.7027 | long=147.3590 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6268 1702 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W-Su | price= | content= The range of wines by winemaker Tim Krushka includes pinot noir, chardonnay, a Bordeaux-blend red and a sauvignon blanc semillon. }} * {{do | name=Coal Valley Vineyard | url=http://www.coalvalley.com.au | email= | address=257 Richmond Road, Cambridge 7170 | lat=-42.8183 | long=147.4461| directions= | phone=+61 3 6248 5367 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Th-Su from 10AM - 4PM | price= | content= Coal Valley's range includes riesling, chardonnay, pinot noir, tempranillo and a cabernet merlot blend. }} * {{do | name=Moorilla | url=http://moorilla.com.au/ | email= | address=655 Main Rd, Berriedale |lat=-42.8116 | long=147.2567 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6277 9900 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open Daily | price= | content= Conor van der Reest is Moorilla's winemaker. Moorilla's range includes sparking, riesling, sauvignon blanc, chardonnay and pinot noir. }} * {{do | name=Stefano Lubiana Wines | url=https://slw.com.au/ | email= | address=60 Rowbottoms Rd, Granton |lat=-42.7498 | long=147.2034 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6263 6457 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W-Su 11AM-4PM | price= | content= Established in 1990, the family-owned winery includes a renovated restaurant with a Mediterranean feel. }} ====Wine tours==== Due to the distances and lack of public transport to many of the wineries, the best way of visiting them is by car. There are also places that organised tours, usually on weekends, such as [http://www.boutiquewinetourstas.com.au/ Boutique Wine Tours]. ==Buy== ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Cat and Fiddle Arcade | alt= | url=http://catandfiddlearcade.com/ | email= | address=49-51 Murray St | lat=-42.88254 | long=147.32689 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6231 2088 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-5:30PM, Su 10AM-4PM | price= | content=A renovated shopping mall that has fast become a premier shopping destination in Hobart, with many national Australian retailers now calling the Cat and Fiddle home. The mall has long been famous for an animated clock within the food court that acts out ''The Cat and the Fiddle'' nursery rhyme on the hour. }} * {{buy | name=Elizabeth Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Elizabeth St | lat=-42.88173 | long=147.32809 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2022-03-23| content=A pedestrianised street in the heart of Hobart's CBD that has become one of the main shopping strips of the city. There are also several connecting laneways and arcades that lead to other shopping venues, so don't be afraid to deviate from the main street. }} * {{buy | name=Myer | alt= | url=http://www.myer.com.au/ | email= | address=55 Murray St | lat=-42.88268 | long=147.32620 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6213 6100 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 9AM-6PM, F 9AM-7PM, Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 10AM-4PM | price= | content=A standalone of Australia's largest department store chain selling homewares, bedding, electronics, cosmetics, fashion, accessories, etc. On the fashion front at Myer they stock many popular Australian and International designer labels in addition to their own range of private brands. }} ===Markets=== [[Image:Salamanca_Market_May.JPG|250px|thumb|right|The bustling Salamanca Markets]] *{{Buy|name=Hobart Twilight Market|url=https://hobarttwilightmarket.com.au |address=Brooke St Pier|hours=March to June, see website for changing dates|lastedit=2025-07-27|content=A lively handmade and food market on the pier of Hobart. A second market with the same stallholders also runs sometimes at Long Beach Park, Sandy Bay}} * {{buy | name=Farm Gate Market | alt= | url=http://farmgatemarket.com.au/ | email= | address=Cnr of Melville St & Elizabeth St | lat=-42.88012 | long=147.32455 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su 9AM-1PM | price= | content=This outdoor market is brimming with fresh seasonal produce, dairy products, wine and other food items from around Tasmania. If you consider yourself a foodie then this is a must when visiting Hobart. }} * {{buy | name=Salamanca Market | alt= | url=https://www.salamancamarket.com.au | email= | address=Salamanca Pl | lat=-42.88655 | long=147.33131 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Sa 8:30AM-3PM | price= | content=A major Saturday morning attraction for locals and visitors. [https://www.openstreetmap.org/way/1336340271 Situated] in front of large sandstone warehouses which have been converted into a maze of craftsmen's workshops, giftshops, restaurants and other 'artsy-crafty' shops. Market stalls are one of the cheapest places to buy Tasmanian timber products. }} ===Bookstores=== * {{buy | name=Fullers Bookshop | alt= | url=http://www.fullersbookshop.com.au/ | email= | address=131 Collins St | lat=-42.88425 | long=147.32603 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 3800 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 9AM-6PM, Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 10AM-4PM | price= |lastedit=2022-03-23| content=Established in 1920, Fullers is a popular independent bookstore that also runs a local publishing house. They often host book signings and events. While specialists in local authors, they also offer bestsellers, stationery, puzzles & games, and a large range of local guides. After you have made your purchase you can sit in the cafe area to read your book while having something to eat or drink. }} * {{buy | name=Hobart Bookshop | alt= | url=http://www.hobartbookshop.com.au/ | email= | address=22 Salamanca Sq | lat=-42.88744 | long=147.33235 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6223 1803 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 9AM-6PM, Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 10AM-5PM | price= | content=A small but cosy feeling bookstore that is nearly overflowing with a whole range of books to choose from. They have a huge range of educational books and also have a Tasmanian book section. For any book purchases they offer complimentary gift-wrapping. }} * {{buy | name=State Cinema Bookstore | alt= | url=http://statecinemabookstore.com.au/ | email= | address=373 Elizabeth St | lat=-42.8725 | long=147.3150 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 6318 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-6:30PM, F Sa 10AM-9PM | price= | content=Adjacent to the State Cinema (hence the name), this bookshop specialises in non-fiction, travel, art, fashion, architecture along with a range of fiction titles. They also have a great range of stationery items. }} *{{Buy|name=Cracked and Spineless New and Used Books|address=Imperial Arcade, 138 Collins St|directions=inside the arcade and up a set of stairs at the back of the building|lat=-42.88311|long=147.32811|hours=M-F 9AM-5:30PM, Sa 9:30AM-4PM |lastedit=2021-04-25|content=A mixed secondhand and new bookstore, best known for once finding a lost Napoleonic-era diary in the back room,. They feature an extremely eclectic range of books and have been Hobart's premier secondhand bookstore for 30 years. Their social media is extremely popular in Hobart for its off-colour jokes.}} ===Providores=== Sure you could head on over to one of the national supermarket chains, Coles and Woolworths, but why do that when Hobart is brimming with plenty of unique providores, delis and specialty food stores for you to sample some of Tasmania's finest food and produce. * {{buy | name=Truckle & co. | alt= | url=http://www.truckleandco.com.au/ | email= | address=141 Bathurst St | lat=-42.88282 | long=147.32285 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 9978 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 8AM-6PM, Sa 8AM-4PM | price= | content=For all things Italian Truckle & co. is a one-stop shop. There is an impressive array of cheeses for you to sample and purchase along with a whole range of smallgoods, pastas, oils, truffles, etc. }} * {{buy | name=Spice World | alt= | url=http://www.spiceworld.com.au/ | email= | address=Shop 10, Bank Arcade, 2-10 Liverpool St | lat=-42.88075 | long=147.32775 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6231 6270 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 8:30AM-6PM, Sa 9AM-4PM | price= | content=If you love herbs and spices this is the place to go. With over 300 types of herbs, spices and curry mixes there is bound to be something you want. They also sell other cooking staples such as flours, nuts, pulses, rices and essences. }} * {{buy | name=Wursthaus Kitchen | alt= | url=http://www.wursthauskitchen.com.au/ | email= | address=1 Montpelier Retreat | lat=-42.88707 | long=147.33156 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6224 0644 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 8AM-6PM, Sa 8AM-5PM, Su 9AM-5PM | price= | content=One of Hobart's famous establishments that specialises in all things food and wine. This gourmet food shop sells a whole range of items including deli goods, sausages (or ''wurst'' for those who speak German), wines, cheeses, pre-prepared meals and breads. They also hold cooking classes and can arrange hampers and catering orders. }} * {{buy | name=The Italian Pantry | alt= | url=http://www.italianpantry.com.au/ | email= | address=27-29 Federal Street, North Hobart | lat=-42.8695 | long=147.3183 | directions= | phone=+61 3 62312788 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This family-run business has been providing Tasmania with the best provincial Italian food, regional wines and beers along with aperitif spirits since 2006. The business has grown and flourished and developed in-house pasta manufacturing, restaurant and cooking school. }} ==Eat== [[File:Tasmanian salmon on a pea and corn fritter.jpg|thumb|Tasmanian salmon on a pea and corn fritter]] Hobart has a profusion of eating establishments ranging from the cheap to the luxuriously expensive. Freshly caught [[seafood]] is a specialty of the region, and there are several excellent seafood restaurants. Deep-sea Trevalla is unique to Tasmania and must be tried. Tasmanian lobster is also excellent. Scallop pie is also unique to Tasmania and can be easily purchased from the Salamanca Market food stalls. Restaurants are concentrated in the Salamanca and North Hobart areas. ===Budget=== *{{eat | name=Jackman & McRoss | url=https://www.facebook.com/Jackman-and-McRoss-139201119459938/ | email= | address=57 Hampden Rd | lat=-42.88969 | long=147.33346 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6223 3186 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM-5PM | price= | content=A Hobart institution with fantastic bakery treats - a must visit when in town. Walk in and take one look at the counter display and you'll see why. Eat-in is table service with a different price list. Short walk from Salamanca Place - head up the stairs by the gallery, keep walking along the road and it's just on the right. You can't miss it, there will be lots of cars parked nearby. }} * {{eat | name=Machine Laundry Cafe | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Machine-Laundry-Cafe/113296732063100 | email= | address=12 Salamanca Sq | lat=-42.88760 | long=147.33332 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6224 9922 | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6224 7967 | hours=M-Sa 7:30AM-5PM, Su 8:30AM-5PM | price= | content=This cafe (which also houses a laundromat, hence the name) is a good place for a filling breakfast of $8-$15. Eggs benedict and banana and ricotta pancakes are recommended. }} *{{eat | name=Tricycle Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.tricyclecafe.com.au/ | email= | address=77 Salamanca Place | lat=-42.88690 | long=147.33356 | directions=tucked in next to the Peacock Theatre | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Outdoor dining on the Path with excellent coffee and outstanding muffins. Artisan sourdough, Tasmanian vintage cheeses with a cool vibe. Baked eggs with yoghurt and chutney are a surprising combination that works. }} *{{eat | name=Villino Espresso | url=http://www.villino.com.au/ | email= | address=30 Criterion St | lat=-42.88140 | long=147.32568 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6231 0890 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 8AM-4:30PM, Sa 9AM-3PM | price= | content=Small cafe in the CBD of Hobart. Good coffee made well and consistently. }} * {{eat | name=Bury Me Standing | alt= | url=https://www.burymestanding.com.au/ | email=alesha@burymestanding.com.au | address=83-85 Bathurst Street | lat=-42.88085 | long=147.325499 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M–Sa 7:30AM–2:30PM, Su 8AM–1PM | price= | lastedit=2022-09-16 | content=Bagels, coffee, and pastries, with mostly plant-based options. }} ===Mid-range=== Many of the establishments listed in the [[#Drink|Drink]] section below also serve food. * {{eat | name=Mures Fish Centre | alt= | url=http://www.mures.com.au/ | email= | address=Victoria Dock |lat=-42.8823 | long=147.3340 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6231 1999 (upper deck) or +61 3 6231 2121 (lower deck) | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6234 4464 | hours= | price= | content=Mures has two sections: the upper deck is a stylish seafood restaurant (mains $20-30); the lower deck is a cafeteria style bistro (mains approx $10) and served mainly deep fried fish and the like. Reservations are usually required for the upper deck. Coffee and ice-cream is also available in a casual environment on the lower deck. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=The Drunken Admiral | alt= | url=http://drunkenadmiral.com.au/ | email= | address=19 Old Wharf, Hobart Town | lat=-42.8812 | long=147.3349 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 1903 | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6231 1259 | hours=Dinner daily from 6PM | price=Mains $21.90-31.90 | content=Wonderful restaurant close to Mures. The seafood platter is highly recommended. It is important to make a reservation as this is a popular restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Ball and Chain | alt= | url=http://ballandchain.com.au/ | email= | address=87 Salamanca Pl | lat=-42.88685 | long=147.33439 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-08-14 | content=Long established and very popular steakhouse. }} ==Drink== [[File:Cascade Brewery 1.jpg|thumb|Cascade Brewery, the oldest in Australia]] ===Bars=== * {{drink | name=Bar Celona | alt= | url=http://barcelonahobart.com/ | email= | address=45 Salamanca Pl | lat=-42.88715 | long=147.33247| directions= | phone=+61 3 6224 7557 | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6224 7388 | hours= | price= | content=Bar Celona is a combined wine bar and cafe. The decor is open and wood paneled: while it can get a bit noisy, it's a good place to escape some of the much more crowded bars on a busy weekend night, especially if you want to have a nice glass or two of wine. }} * {{drink | name=The Lower House | alt= | url=http://www.thelowerhouse.com.au/ | email= | address=9 Murray St | lat=-42.88467 | long=147.33057 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The mildly witty name of this lounge bar across the road from parliament is a decent metaphor for the atmosphere. Colloquially known as 'lower' it is a pre-drinking venue of choice for a mostly young crowd. There is seating inside, as well as a reasonably large outside area. They do food, but it does get very crowded after about 10PM. Directly across the lane from Mobius. }} * {{drink | name=Mobius Lounge Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Despard St | lat=-42.88440 | long=147.33097 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-08-14 | content=Depending on who you ask, Mobius will be described as either the seediest or the best club in Hobart. The grumpy bouncers and reasonably seedy atmosphere though, can't detract from the fact that the DJs are clearly some of the best in Hobart and the dancefloor is regularly full. }} * {{drink | name=The Lark Distillery | alt= | url=https://larkdistillery.com/ | email=tours@larkdistillery.com.au | address=14 Davey St | lat=-42.88292 | long=147.33204 | directions=Next to the Tourist Information Centre | phone=+61 3 6231 9088 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10AM-till evening | price= | content=The Lark Distillery is the first licensed distillery in Tasmania since 1839 and now operates as a bar, store and distillery in one. It produces fine single malt whiskey and other liqueurs. It provides free tastings of liqueurs and spirits and charges a small fee to taste their 3 types of whiskeys ($2 each tasting or $5 for all 3). Their bush liqueur also has a distinctive taste through the use of pepperberries. There are several live music performances a week. Entry is always free and students receive a 10% discount on drinks. }} * {{drink | name=Cargo Bar Lounge | alt= | url=http://www.cargobarsalamanca.com.au/ | email= | address=47-51 Salamanca Pl | lat=-42.88687 | long=147.33283 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6223 7788 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Modern feel with a mix of outdoor seating on the street, or a quieter secluded booth style seating at the back of the bar. Drinks are the usual fare; a selection of beers on tap, a good choice of wines and most spirits. }} * {{drink | name=Flamingo's Dance Bar | alt= | url=http://www.flamingosbar.com | email= | address=112 Murray St |lat=-42.88398 | long=147.32396 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6294 6173 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2021-04-25| content=Hobart's only gay bar. This place is small and intimate and it goes off on Friday and Saturday night, especially during the summer months. They also put on a pretty wild New Year's Eve party. }} ===Pubs=== * {{drink | name=The New Sydney Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=87 Bathurst St | lat=-42.8808 | long=147.3254 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the most popular inner-city pubs, the cosy New Sydney is home to Hobart's Irish community and offers an Irish pub atmosphere rather more authentic than that of an Irish theme pub (see Irish Murphy's, below). Large range of imported and local beers on tap. }} * {{drink | name=Republic Bar & Cafe | alt= | url=http://www.republicbar.com/ | email= | address=299 Elizabeth St North Hobart | lat=-42.8747 | long=147.3174 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 6954 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=In its day, the former Empire Hotel was one of Hobart's roughest pubs, hosting a shoot-out during the 1980s. Australian cricketer Max Walker grew up in the Empire, which was run by his parents. After a re-modelling and re-branding as the Republic Bar in the mid-1990s, it has become one of the State's most popular pubs. Today the Republic Bar is Tasmania's premier music venue, with live music 7 days. It hosts an award winning restaurant, art gallery and a large covered beer garden that is good all year round. }} * {{drink | name=The Shipwright's Arms | alt= | url= | email= | address=29 Trumpeter St | lat=-42.8915 | long=147.3366 | directions= | phone=+61 3 62235551 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It's in Battery Point, one of Australia's oldest suburbs, the Arms opened in 1842. Cosy fires and Chesterfields is the atmosphere here and the nautical theme attracts participants in the Sydney-Hobart yacht race around the new year. A popular local pub, slightly off the tourist trail, the beer garden is an attractive place for a meal on summer evenings. }} * {{drink | name=Irish Murphy's | alt= | url=http://www.irishmurphys.com.au/ | email=hobart@irishmurphys.com.au | address=21 Salamanca Pl |lat=-42.88659 | long=147.33086 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6223 1119 | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6223 1133 | hours= | price= | content=Irish Murphy's is a busy Irish pub on one of the prime nightlife strips. It has a young crowd dancing to pop hits from their childhood in a fake Irish franchise pub. The meals are quite good, and there's a fantastic view over the old warehouses at Salamanca. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Hobart moonrise from Mt Wellington.jpg|thumb|Night view of Hobart]] ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alexandra on Battery | alt= | url= | email= | address=3 Sonning Crescent, Sandy Bay |lat=-42.9165 | long=147.3565 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6225 2574 | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6225 3522 | price=$80-90 per night | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Brunswick Hotel | url=http://brunswickhotelhobart.com.au | address=67 Liverpool St | lat=-42.8808 | long=147.3274 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 4981 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=$23 and up | checkin= | checkout=10:30AM | content=Great location a half block from the pedestrian mall on Elizabeth Street. Dorm rooms start at $23. Private en suite rooms start at $65. Big covered outdoor area in the back. Very nice bar and restaurant out front. }} * {{sleep | name=Dr Syntax Hotel | alt= | url=http://doctorsyntaxhotel.com.au/ | email=tom@doctorsyntax.com.au | address=139 Sandy Bay Rd | lat=-42.8937 | long=147.3256 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6223 6258 | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6224 0132 | checkin= | checkout= | price=$45-70 | content=Sandy Bay. Pub-style accommodation. }} * {{sleep | name=Hobart Central YHA | alt= | url=https://www.yha.com.au/hostels/tas/hobart-surrounds/hobart-yha-backpacker-accommodation/ | email=hobartcentral@yha.com.au | address=9 Argyle St | lat=-42.88175 | long=147.33101 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-11 | content=Hobart Central YHA is the most centrally located backpacker accommodation in Hobart, only a block from the city's waterfront. No parking. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Battery Point Boutique Accommodation | alt= | url=http://www.batterypointaccommodation.com.au | email=bookings@batterypointaccommodation.com.au | address=27-29 Hampden Rd | lat=-42.8893 | long=147.3355 | directions= | phone=+61 422 629432 | tollfree= | fax= | price=$145-210 per night | checkin= | checkout= | content=Self-contained apartments in historic Battery Point. }} * {{sleep | name=Motel 429 | alt= | url=http://www.motel429.com.au/ | email=sales@motel429.com.au | address=429 Sandy Bay Rd |lat=-42.9047 | long=147.3373 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6225 2511 | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6225 4354 | price=$99-113 per night | checkin= | checkout= | content=Sandy Bay. }} * {{sleep | name=Rydges Hobart | alt= | url=https://www.rydges.com/accommodation/hobart-tas/hobart/ | email= | address=393 Argyle St | lat=-42.8670 | long=147.3136 | directions=Cnr Argyle Street & Lewis Street | phone=1300 857 922 (local rate) | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= Rydges Hobart is 2 km from Hobart's central business district. A history-themed hotel in a heritage-listed building. }} *{{sleep | name=Somerset on the Pier Hobart | alt= | url=http://www.somerset.com/en/australia/hobart/somerset_on_the_pier.html | email=enquiry.hobart@the-ascott.com | address=Elizabeth Street Pier | lat=-42.88433 | long=147.33429 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6220 6600 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-07 | content=Somerset on the Pier is an award-winning transformation of the early 1930s pier building, offering views of the River Derwent and Historic Sullivan's Cove. All 56 apartments, which range from one-bedroom executives to two-bedroom premiers are non-smoking, and have a kitchen and broadband internet access. }} *{{sleep | name=Somerset on Salamanca Hobart | alt= | url=http://www.somerset.com/en/australia/hobart/somerset_on_salamanca.html | email=enquiry.hobart@the-ascott.com | address=No 8 Salamanca Place | lat=-42.88660 | long=147.33547 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6220 6600 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-07 | content=The serviced residence offers a range of apartments from studios to two-bedroom executives that comes with a private balcony or courtyard, kitchen and broadband internet access. Situated minutes from the Central Business District and Salamanca Market. }} * {{sleep | name=Waterside Accommodation | alt= | url=http://www.watersideaccommodation.com/ | email= | address=10 Harbinger Ln | lat=-42.7815 | long=147.2557 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6249 2352 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=The Hobart properties are at Austins Ferry. All have views, are on the water and are available for short term rental. }} * {{sleep | name=The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel | alt= | url=http://oldwoolstore.com.au/ | email=reservations@oldwoolstore.com.au | address=1 Macquarie Street | lat=-42.879881 | long=147.33365 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=A fantastic hotel right next to the Hobart Waterfront. The apartments are very comfortable and spacious. Good room-service and a nice restaurant. The Baa Bar is a comfortable place to relax after a big day. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Grand Chancellor | alt= | url=https://www.grandchancellorhotels.com/hotel-grand-chancellor-hobart | email=reservations@hgchobart.com.au | address=1 Davey St | lat=-42.88085 | long=147.33352 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6235 4535 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A waterfront hotel along Sullivan's Cove with 244 rooms that are modern and clean. Facilities include a bar, heated pool, fitness centre and sauna. This hotel can be busy during exhibitions and conferences in the connecting Federation Concert Hall, which is also home to the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. }} * {{sleep | name=Astor Private Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.astorprivatehotel.com.au | email=bookings@astorprivatehotel.com.au | address=157 Macquarie St | lat=-42.88514 | long=147.32698 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 6611 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2020-01-24 | content= }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=The Henry Jones Art Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.thehenryjones.com/ | email=reservations@thehenryjones.com | address=25 Hunter St | lat=-42.8813 | long=147.3356 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Winner of a national award for luxury small hotels. }} * {{sleep | name=The Islington | alt= | url=http://www.islingtonhotel.com/ | email= | address=321 Davey St | lat=-42.8965 | long=147.3136 | directions= | phone=+61 3-6220-2123 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=An amazing converted mansion built in 1874. Rooms are fantastic with a view of Mt Wellington and a garden. Public spaces inside the hotel have open fires, original art work and antique furniture. Service is excellent. Room rates can be negotiated, but don't expect cheap (from $400/night). }} * {{Sleep|name=Hadley's Orient Hotel|address=34 Murray St|lat=-42.88381|long=147.3279|directions=Opposite St David's Cathedral|phone=+613 6237 2999|tollfree=1800 131 689|price=$250 per night for a single room and up|lastedit=2022-03-23|content=One of Australia's oldest hotels, built in 1834, today Hadley's is a truly Victorian hotel after extensive restorations in collaboration with heritage experts. Hadley's includes an atrium style restaurant, bar, and also serves high teas, continental breakfasts and offers horse drawn carriage tours of the city, pick up from hotel door. The hotel walls display an exceptional collection of art by winners of Hadley's Art Prize, Australia's richest landscape art award.}} * {{sleep | name=Lenna | alt= | url=http://www.lenna.com.au/ | email=enquiries@lenna.com.au | address=20 Runnymede St | lat=-42.88737 | long=147.33575 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6232 3900 | tollfree=1800 030 633 | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Battery Point. One of Hobart's most stylish boutique hotels. The rooms are very comfortable and well furnished with great views out on Battery Point and the waterfront. }} ==Connect== The Service Tasmania & Parks and Wildlife office on Macquarie St. has free internet. '''Hadleys Hotel''' foyer and Wrest Point Casino have free WiFi hotspot and excellent public bar for sheltering from the cold in comfort. There are numerous internet 'cafes' in the city centre. The State Library building in Macquarie St also offers free wifi. Many coffee shops offer free wireless internet with a purchase. Hobart City Council offers free wifi inside Franklin Square. == Cope == === Consulates === Almost all consulates in Hobart are honorary, and don't offer help with passports or administrative issues but can provide emergency assistance. Most honorary consulates are filled by local business figures. * {{Flag|Philippines}}{{listing | name=Philippines | alt= | url=https://www.philembassy.org.au/offices/hobart-tas | email=consul@tradesmarts.com.au | address=146 Campbell Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+61 419 608 124 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-24 | content= }} * {{Flag|Netherlands}} {{Listing|name=Netherlands|url=https://www.netherlandsworldwide.nl/countries/australia/about-us/honorary-consul-in-hobart|phone=+61 2 8305 6800|lastedit=2022-03-24|content=Honorary Consul}} * {{Flag|Japan}} {{listing | name=Japan | alt= | url=https://www.melbourne.au.emb-japan.go.jp/consulate-info/hobart.html | email=kclifford@incat.com.au | address=100 Derwent Park Road, Derwent Park | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+61 3 6271 1333 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-24 | content=Honorary Consul-General. }} * {{Flag|Czech Republic}} {{Listing|name=Czech Republic|url=https://www.mzv.cz/sydney/en/about_the_consulate/contacts/australia_honorary_consulate_HOB.html|email=hobart@honorary.mzv.cz|phone=+61 362 693 859|lastedit=2022-03-24|content=Honorary consul}} * {{Flag|Thailand}} {{listing | name=Thailand | alt= | url=https://www.thaiembassy.com/thai-embassies/thai-consulate-in-tasmania-australia | email=achalabun@austarnet.com.au | address=63 Invercargill Rd, Mount Nelson | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+61 3 6224-3811 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-24 | content=Honorary consul-general. }} * {{Flag|Norway}} {{Listing|name=Norway|url=https://www.norway.no/en/australia/norway-australia/consulates/#ConsulateHobart|email=jekennedy@mdgcontracting.com.au|address=Level 3, 85 Macquarie Street|phone=+61 3 6270 2266|lastedit=2022-03-24|content=Honorary consul}} * {{Flag|France}} {{listing | name=France | alt= | url=https://au.ambafrance.org/List-of-Consular-Agencies#Hobart-Tasmania | email=france@consulhobart.com | address=179 Murray St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+61 3 6235 5112 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-24 | content=Honorary consul. }} * {{Flag|Poland}} {{Listing|name=Poland|url=https://www.gov.pl/web/australia-en/honorary-consulates|email=polishconsultas@gmail.com|address=7 Waverly Ave, Mt Stuart|phone=+61 3 62281040|lastedit=2022-03-24|content=Honorary consul}} ==Go next== {{routebox2 |temp1=[[File:AUHWY1.png|22px]] |directionl1=N |minorl1=[[Brighton (Tasmania)|Brighton]] |majorl1=[[Launceston]] |directionr1=S |majorr1=END |temp2={{AUR|A3}} |directionl2=W |majorl2=END |directionr2=NE |minorr2=[[Sorell]] |majorr2=[[Bicheno]] |temp3={{AUR|A6}} |directionl3=SW |minorl3=[[Kingston (Tasmania)|Kingston]] |majorl3=[[Huonville]] |directionr3=N |majorr3=END |temp4={{AUR|A10}} |directionl4=NW |minorl4=[[New Norfolk]] |majorl4=[[Queenstown (Tasmania)|Queenstown]] |directionr4=SE |majorr4=END }} Hobart is a good base for exploring [[Southern Tasmania|Southern Tasmania]] and a great starting point if you plan to explore the rest of [[Tasmania]]. Many nearby destinations are close enough to allow for a day trip from Hobart or even a few days away if you wish. [[File:Casey station from the air.jpg|thumb|Casey station from the air]] *[[Bruny Island]] — Actually two islands connected by a narrow isthmus. Bruny has much to explore from its amazing food and produce to spectacular scenery and lookouts. If you are lucky and hang around until dusk you may spot Little Penguins as they plod from the ocean to their nests at the isthmus. *[[Freycinet National Park]] — On the east coast and home to the famous Wineglass Bay, previously voted one of the top 10 beaches in the world. The rugged natural beauty of Freycinet is spectacular and there are various scenic drives or walks you can take to soak it all up. *[[Huon Trail]] — An expansive region to the south-west of Hobart, incorporating the D'Entrecasteaux Channel and Huon Valley. [[Huonville]] is one of the main towns in this area although there is plenty more to explore in this region. If you continue far south you will reach Cockle Creek, the southernmost point you can drive to in Australia. It's best to take a car to explore the Huon. *[[Mount Field National Park]] — A small, yet impressive National Park just over an Hour north-west of Hobart. The park is home to Russell Falls, one of Tasmania's finest waterfalls, and in winter you can ski down the slopes at Mt Mawson. Stop off at [[New Norfolk]] along the way to explore the charm of this small town. *[[Port Arthur (Tasmania)|Port Arthur]] — A former convict settlement on the [[Tasman Peninsula]] that is steeped in history. A popular day trip from Hobart, there is much to explore on the whole peninsula including [[Tasman National Park]], which is brimming with spectacular views and natural rock formations. *[[Richmond (Tasmania)|Richmond]] — A quaint little town less than 30 minutes north-east from Hobart. The town is home to the oldest bridge in Australia and Australia's oldest intact prison. On the way you can eat and drink your way to Richmond by visiting some of the wineries dotted along the road. {{guidecity}} {{isPartOf|Greater_Hobart}} {{geo|-42.8509|147.291}} p0rejxo8p0osqdjo2r20oxo4kq84mv6 5288924 5288833 2026-06-06T17:42:03Z Ibaman 195012 unneeded 5288924 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Hobart_Wikivoyage_banner_3.jpg|unesco=yes|unesco_cc=yes|dotm=yes}} {{otheruses}} '''Hobart''' is the capital city of [[Tasmania]] and is Australia's second oldest city, after [[Sydney]]. Hobart sits along the Derwent River and began humbly as a penal colony. Hobart is now a small and intimate city with a population of around 255,000 (as of 2024) in the [[Greater Hobart]] area. The city is renowned for its many historic buildings, including the famous Salamanca Place, and is the gateway to [[Southern Tasmania]]. Hobart played a major role during the heroic age of Antarctic exploration and is one of the five gateway cities to [[Antarctica]]. ==Understand== [[File:Hobart TAS Australia 1.jpg|thumb|right|View of the Hobart central business district and Mt Wellington from Constitution Dock]] ===History=== Founded in 1804 by Colonel David Collins, Hobart is the second oldest city in Australia. It grew out of the penal settlement on the island at Risdon Cove, 8 km upriver, which was founded in 1803 and abandoned five months later for the present site of Hobart. In the first half of the 1800s, the whaling boom generated a surge in maritime support industries and infrastructure. Whaling ceased in the late 1800s, but Hobart never lost its boat-building, ship-chandlery and provedoring legacy. This made Hobart a logical staging post in the heroic age of Antarctic exploration. France’s Dumont d’Urville, Australia’s Douglas Mawson, England’s James Clark Ross, and Norway’s Carsten Borchgrevink and [[Voyages of Roald Amundsen|Roald Amundsen]] all paused in the Derwent on their way to Antarctica. In December 1911, the Australasian Antarctic Expedition led by Mawson was given a rousing send-off from Hobart’s Sullivans Cove. A few months later, Amundsen brought ''Fram'' into Hobart in order to send a telegram to the King of Norway with the news that his party had reached the South Pole. After sending the telegram, Amundsen publicly announced his feat from the Hobart General Post Office sandstone steps. A few months later, Mawson’s Antarctic party sent the first wireless messages from Antarctica to the outside world – to a receiving station on Hobart’s Queens Domain. ===Climate=== {{BOM|Hobart|hobart|tas}} {{climate chart |Hobart |13.0 |22.7 |43.7 |12.8 |22.2 |37.8 |11.6 |20.7 |37.0 |9.4 |17.9 |42.6 |7.6 |15.3 |39.2 |5.5 |12.7 |46.0 |5.2 |12.6 |44.5 |5.6 |13.7 |63.0 |6.9 |15.7 |55.6 |8.3 |17.6 |52.8 |10.0 |19.1 |50.7 |11.6 |21.0 |53.0 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Hobart]] | description = Check '''Hobart's 7 day forecast''' at [http://www.bom.gov.au/tas/forecasts/hobart.shtml BOM.gov.au] }} Hobart has a '''mild temperate oceanic climate''' owing to its fairly southerly latitude (42.88°S) and proximity to the Southern Ocean. As such, daily temperatures typically peak around {{c|21}} for average summer highs. Only during the uncommon heat wave, can summer temperatures rise upwards to around {{c|28}} and not go below {{c|17}} at night. Nightly lows typically range around {{c|13}} during summer and {{c|5}} in winter, so cold weather gear is recommended all year round. So, even in summer, you should always '''bring a jumper''' just in case, and in the coldest months (May, June, July, August and September), pack layers. It is not unheard of for temperatures to drop below zero during winter, with Hobart's lowest temperature on record being a chilly -2.8°C, with sleet sometimes occurring and in the outer suburbs it even snows. Interestingly, Hobart has the second fewest daily hours of sunlight out of all Australian cities, at 5.9 hours on average for the year. The sun is only up between 7:30AM and 4:45PM in the winter months. However, during the summer it has the most hours of daylight of any Australian city, with 15.2 hours on the summer solstice, with daylight from 5:30AM to 8:45PM. '''Rainfall''' is fairly similar year round, averaging 50 mm per month, occurring around 15 days a month during winter and 10 days a month during summer. Despite the cold weather and occasional rainfall you should not expect to see any snow within Hobart, although it is not unheard of. The city receives snowfall at sea level on average only once every 15 years, caused by cold masses arriving from [[Antarctica]]. More often, some outlying suburbs of Hobart at higher elevation can receive snowfall. The nearby Mount Wellington is often seen snowcapped during winter, and its temperatures are much colder than Hobart — typically 10 degrees colder and easily reaching below zero during winter. ===Visitor information=== * {{listing | name=Tasmania Travel & Information Centre: Hobart| alt= | url=http://www.hobarttravelcentre.com.au/home | email=bookings@hobarttravelcentre.com.au | address=20 Davey St | lat=-42.88314 | long=147.33168 | directions=Cnr Davey St & Elizabeth St | phone=+61 3 6238 4222 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 8:30AM-5:30PM (9AM-5PM during Jun-Aug), Sa Su 9AM-5PM | price= | content=A great place to find information about Hobart and the rest of Tasmania. They can also help to book any activities or accommodation that you require. }} * [http://www.discovertasmania.com.au/about/regions-of-tasmania/hobart-and-south/hobart Tourism information for Hobart] from Discover Tasmania ==Get in== ===By plane=== *{{go | name=Hobart International Airport | alt={{IATA|HBA}} | url=http://hobartairport.com.au | email= | address= | lat=-42.8371 | long=147.5055 | directions=situated {{km|15}} north east of Hobart in Cambridge | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Hobart International Airport | image=Hobart Airportview.jpg | wikidata=Q15498 |lastedit=2023-09-14| content=The primary airport serving southern Tasmania. Despite being called an international airport, there is only one international destination, being Auckland }} Airlines serving the airport include [http://www.jetstar.com.au/ Jetstar], [http://www.qantas.com.au/ Qantas], and [http://www.virginaustralia.com/ Virgin Australia] with flights from: * [[Brisbane]] operated by Jetstar and Virgin Australia. * [[Melbourne]] operated by Jetstar, Qantas, and Virgin Australia. * [[Sydney]] operated by Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin Australia. *[[Adelaide]] operated by Jetstar *[[Perth]] operated by Qantas, and Virgin Australia *[[Auckland]] operated by Air New Zealand '''Ground transportation''' options from Hobart Airport include an '''airport shuttle''' operated by [https://www.skybus.com.au/ SkyBus] which meets every arriving flight and serves most accommodation within Hobart. Reservations are not necessary for Hobart bound trips on this shuttle, but are required for the return leg to the airport. A ticket costs $22/38 for adults and $19/35 for children or pensioners for one-way/return trips respectively. Those wanting a faster or more direct option should consider taking a '''taxi'''. Depending on traffic the journey should take around 20-25 minutes and cost approximately $38-45. '''Car rental''' is also available at Hobart Airport with rental companies including [http://www.avis.com.au/ Avis], [https://www.bargaincarrentals.com.au/ Bargain Car Rentals], [http://www.budget.com.au/ Budget], [http://www.europcar.com.au/ Europcar], [http://www.hertz.com.au Hertz], [https://www.redspot.com.au/ Red Spot] and [https://www.thrifty.com.au/locations/tas/hobart Thrifty]. All of the car rental offices are just past the arrivals gates on the way to the exit Hobart has a small airport for the volume of passenger traffic it often accommodates. You'll have no problem finding the cafes, bars, and bookshops that are mandatory airport fare, and a souvenir shop. On the positive side you can expect to get your luggage quickly through onto the conveyor. On the negative side, there isn't enough seating in the departure lounge for a few full flights departing simultaneously. You'll still be walking across the tarmac to get on your flight. ===By car=== Hobart can be easily reached from all other cities and towns in Tasmania by car. Driving from [[Launceston]] via National Highway 1 takes around 2.5&nbsp;hrs with car hire available from the airport or in Launceston itself. You can also take a car from mainland Australia via [[Devonport]], with a ferry departing nightly from [[Melbourne]]. The journey from Devonport takes around 4&nbsp;hrs. ===By boat=== Hobart offers a beautiful deep-water port with cruise ship berths in the heart of the historic Salamanca area of the city. Large cruise ships dock at Macquarie Wharf. Volunteer greeters meet the cruise ships, answer questions, and point the way. The immediate area, which includes Constitution and Victoria Docks, offers shopping for art, crafts, clothing and souvenirs; light snacks and food; fishing boats; a yacht basin; and the maritime museum. [https://www.tasports.com.au/hobart-schedule#cruise Hobart cruise ship calendar] ===By bus=== {{marker| type=listing | name=Hobart Transit Centre| url=| lat=-42.88518 | long=147.32313}} 230 Liverpool Street is where [https://www.wearekinetic.com/au/launceston-north-east Kinetic] (formerly Red Line Coaches) arrive from Devonport via Launceston, with one or two services most days. {{marker| type=listing | name=Brisbane St Terminus| url=| lat=-42.87936 | long=147.32377}} is where [http://www.tassielink.com.au Tassielink] coaches arrive from Devonport via Launceston, East Coast, Port Arthur and the West coast. The [https://reddecker.com.au/ Red Decker] Hop-on Hop-off Bus connects Hobart (city loop tourist attractions), Mt. Wellington, and Richmond village. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|-42.879|147.323|zoom=13}}{{mapshape}} ===By boat=== [https://derwentferries.com.au Derwent Ferries] operates services between Brooke Street Pier in the city and Bellerive Pier in Bellerive. There are no services on Sundays. All services have been totally free since 2026. Sightseeing cruises and water taxis operate services between Brooke Street Pier in the city and outlying piers along the River Derwent. Some of these services include onboard dining. ===By bus=== [https://www.metrotas.com.au Metro] operates services throughout the city and surrounding suburbs. Hobart Interchange is located in front of the GPO (General Post Office) on Elizabeth Street in the city. All services have been totally free since 2026. ===By car=== [[File:Southern Outlet, Hobart.jpg|thumb|The Southern Outlet is one of the three freeways in and around Hobart]] Hobart is the favourite launching off point for visitors keen to explore other areas of Tasmania. A car is certainly the best and most convenient way of getting to the more rural and scenic spots.  As most domestic travellers arrive by plane, there are plenty of options for car hires at Hobart Airport. Roads west of the Derwent River are generally not congested, although you can expect to pay for parking in the city areas. Hobart City Council operates an app that can be used to pay for car parking. Avoid driving in the Salamanca area on a Saturday, due to road closures and traffic snarls due to the markets. ===By bicycle=== Hobart is hilly any which way you choose to head, so bike riders should be prepared for hills. There is a poorly developed network of off-road cyclepaths, but Hobart drivers tend to be tolerant of cyclists, and most roads tend to be wide enough to accommodate them. One old railway line from the city as far as Claremont has been converted to a first-class cycle and walking path (take care from motor vehicles at intersections). ===By foot=== Walking is the best way to explore the downtown area. It is easy to walk between the city centre, Salamanca, and the port/harbour area. If you are staying in the Salamanca area, you may not need any other form of transport. Between the City Centre and Sandy Bay via Battery Point is only half an hour to walk (although there are some hills). ==See== ===Buildings and landmarks=== As one of Australia's oldest cities, Hobart is home to a multitude of historical buildings that often showcase splendid examples of Georgian and Victorian architecture. In fact, over 90 buildings within Hobart are classified by the National Trust, with around 60 of them along Macquarie St and Davey St alone. Many, but not all, of the historical buildings are located within or near Hobart's Central Business District (CBD) or around Battery Point. [[File:Cascades Female Factory.jpg|thumbnail|Cascades Female Factory]] * {{see | name=Battery Point | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-42.8882 | long=147.3335 | directions=behind Salamanca Place | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2018-02-17| content=The area is named after a battery of guns put on the point in 1818. The guns were eventually removed for fear the residential homes would come under fire in the event of an invasion. Thanks to a green ban in the 1970s, most of Battery Points original Georgian architecture remains intact, and today it is still home to one of Australia's oldest subdivisions and few planned circus', Arthur Circus. If you venture deep within Battery Point, you may stumble upon {{marker| type=see | name=Nanny Goat Lane | lat=-42.89202 | long=147.33066}}, a well-known steep laneway with superb views of the suburbs at the top and a whimsical sign to match its odd name. }} * {{see | name=Cascades Female Factory | alt= | url=http://www.femalefactory.org.au/ | email=reservations@femalefactory.org.au | address=16 Degraves St | lat=-42.8939 | long=147.2994 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6233 6656 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 9:30AM-4PM | price=Entry: $5; entry + tour: adult $15, child $10; ''Her Story'' show: adult $20, child $12.50 | content= This site operated as a female factory between 1828 and 1856, which was intended to reform female convicts and segregate them from the "temptations" of Hobart. The ladies of this female factory were often completing many chores, such as needlework and laundry. The factory is now one of 11 penal sites that make up the Australian Convict Sites on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. A daily Heritage tour runs several times daily and an additional show, title ''Her Story'', runs daily at 11AM. }} * {{see | name=Kangaroo Bluff Historic Site | alt= | url=https://parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/kangaroo-bluff-historic-site | email= | address=Victoria Esplanade | lat=-42.881287 | long=147.367183 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-02-04 | content=The historic site was built for Hobart's defence after Russian warships appeared in the harbour in 1873. }} [[File:Lascar Parliament House (Hobart) (4551936219).jpg|thumb|290px|The sandstone facade of Parliament House]] * {{see | name=Parliament House of Tasmania | alt= | url=http://www.parliament.tas.gov.au/ | email=tours@parliament.tas.gov.au | address= | lat=-42.8856 | long=147.3304 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6212 2248 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Built as a customs house, the Parliament House of Tasmania opened in 1840, but came to serve solely as the state's Parliament House in 1904. The building comprises 3 levels with various areas including the House of Assembly, Legislative Council, Parliamentary Library and Parliamentary Museum. Tours of the Parliament are available to the public which run on non-sitting days(See their website for non-sitting days) at 10AM or 2PM. Another option would be to sit in the public gallery during sitting days. }} * {{see | name=Penitentiary Chapel | alt= | url=http://www.penitentiarychapel.com/ | email= | address=Cnr Brisbane St & Campbell St | lat=-42.8773 | long=147.3269 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6231 0911 | tollfree= | hours=Day tour: F Su 10AM, 11:30AM, 1PM, 2:30PM, Sa 1PM, 2:30PM; ghost tour: M F by appointment | price=Day tour: adult $12, concession $10, child $5; ghost tour: adult $15, child/concession $10 | content=This historic site was built as a chapel for male convicts, built with solitary confinement cells underneath the building and was converted into a supreme criminal court and prison chapel, complete with gallows and an execution yard. The site can only be visited by tours which run during the day, or a ghost tour that runs at night. }} * {{see | name=Salamanca Place | alt= | url=http://www.salamanca.com.au/ | email= | address= | lat=-42.88671 | long=147.33287 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Named after the main street that this area runs along, Salamanca Place is home to rows of colonial style sandstone buildings that were once warehouses built to service the 19th-century whaling industry. Today this area has been converted into a precinct of restaurants, bars, galleries and craft shops. Make sure you venture behind the row of shops along Salamanca Place as there are lots to explore around this area. Salamanca Place is also home to the famous [[Hobart#Buy| Salamanca Markets]] every Saturday. }} * {{see | name=Shot Tower | alt= | url=https://parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/shot-tower | email= | address=Channel Hwy | lat=-42.95798 | long=147.33748 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6227 8885 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-5PM (in winter 9AM-4PM) | price=Adult $8, child $4, under 5 free | wikidata=Q24895572 | content=This historic landmark boasts the titles of being the first shot tower in Australia and the tallest shot tower in the southern hemisphere. Built in 1870, the Shot Tower is 48&nbsp;m tall and made from sandstone, just like many of Hobart's historic buildings. You can climb the 259 wooden steps to the top of the tower which pays off with exceptional views the Derwent Estuary and countryside. }} * {{see | name=Sullivan's Cove | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-42.88262 | long=147.33433 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This area is home to Hobart's main waterfront area and was the original landing point by European settlers in 1804. Most locals come here to sit, relax and, if hungry, enjoy some of Tasmania's finest seafood. '''Constitution Dock''', within the cove, is particularly famous as it is the finishing point of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race which is held from Boxing Day (December 26) each year. }} * {{See|name=Government House|lat=42.86757|long=147.33377|directions=Adjacent to the Hobart Botanic Gardens|lastedit=2022-03-23|content=Government House is one of Australia's largest Gothic Revival residences, built in 1857 and still home to the Governor of Tasmania. Keep an eye out for one of the open days, as it is well worth a visit to the vice-regal residence. It is visible from the highway and Tasman bridge}} * {{see | name=Franklin Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-42.8775 | long=147.336111 | directions=between the Hobart CBD and Sullivans Cove, on the Macquarie Street ridge | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Franklin Square (Hobart) | wikidata=Q16891425 | lastedit=2020-05-15 | content=This oak-lined public space in Central Hobart is named after the explorer [[Voyages of John Franklin|Sir John Franklin]]. Between voyages, he served as Lieutenant-Governor of Van Diemen's Land (as Tasmania was then known) from 1837 to 1843. The centrepiece of the park is a statue of him, with an epitaph by Alfred, Lord Tennyson. }} ===Museums and art galleries=== One of Hobart's biggest cultural drawcards is the multitude of museums and art galleries that are dotted around the city. Many of the exhibits, particularly in the museums, have a distinct [http://www.antarctictasmania.com/home/antarctic_attractions Antarctic theme]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, a result of Hobart's long history of being a Gateway City to East Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is among the best museums in Australia has and has fast become a Hobart icon. * {{see | name=Allport Library and Museum of Fine Arts | alt= | url=https://libraries.tas.gov.au/allport/Pages/Allport.aspx | email= | address=91 Murray St | lat=42.88194 | long=147.32455 | directions=inside the State Library building; access through the back of the foyer | phone=+61 3 6165 5584 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free to the public | wikidata=Q61099760 | lastedit=2021-04-25 | content=Allport Museum is a collection of the family library, art and colonial furniture of an extinct local family. Its public display includes a recreation of the Allport family's house, decorated in 16th- to 19th-century furnishings. There is also a rotating art exhibition of historic and contemporary works. }} * For the '''Australian Antarctic Division''', see Wikivoyage's article on [[Kingston (Tasmania)#See|Kingston]]. It's an Australian government institute that has a visitor centre open to the public. * {{see | name=Australian Army Museum Tasmania | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anglesea Barracks, Davey St | lat=-42.8886 | long=147.3255 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6237 7160 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu Th Sa 9AM-1PM | price=Adult $5, child $1 | wikipedia=Australian Army Museum Tasmania | content=It's within the grounds of the historic '''Anglesea Barracks''', which were established in 1811. This museum covers Tasmania's military history. While the barracks remain an active Australian Defence Force base it is open to the public, and has interesting displays of weapons and several historically significant monuments. These include the only war memorial to have been erected by the many British Army units which undertook garrison duties in colonial Australia. They also offer a guided tour of the barracks on Tuesday at 11AM. | wikidata=Q4348847}} * {{see | name=Maritime Museum of Tasmania | alt= | url=http://www.maritimetas.org/ | email=info@maritimetas.org | address=16 Argyle St | lat=-42.88265 | long=147.33163 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 1427 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 9AM-5PM | price=Adult $9, concession $7, student $5, child free | content=This museum houses the largest collection of maritime artefacts in Tasmania. Displays include information on the early maritime history of Tasmania, the role of lighthouses, the whaling industry, maritime trade, boat building and shipping. }} * {{see | name=Mawson’s Huts Replica Museum | alt= | url=http://www.mawsons-huts-replica.org.au/ | email=info@mawsons-huts.org.au | address=5a Morrison St | lat=-42.88311 | long=147.33224 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6231 1518 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-6PM (Nov–Mar), 10AM-5PM (Apr–Oct) | price=Adult $12, concession $10, child $4 | content=One of Hobart's newest attractions, this museum is a replica of the base stations constructed for Douglas Mawson's Australiasian Antarctic expedition of 1911. It features amenities and conditions that would have been experienced by those who first lived inside the huts. }} [[File:MONA from the water.jpg|250px|thumb|Arriving at MONA on the ferry]] * {{anchor|MONA}}{{anchor|Mona}} {{see | name=Museum of Old and New Art | alt=MONA | url=http://mona.net.au/ | email=info@mona.net.au | address=655 Main Rd | lat=-42.8127 | long=147.2612 | directions=Brooke St Pier or Metrobus 42, 111, 117-122, X1-X3 | phone=+61 3 6277 9900 | tollfree= | hours=F-M 10AM-5PM, book in advance | price=Adult $35, concession $30, under 18 $10, Tasmanian residents free with $10 deposit, under 12 free | wikipedia=Museum of Old and New Art | wikidata=Q2353030 | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=This eccentric, world-class museum of contemporary art has created a buzz in Hobart. Visitor opinions diverge from spectacular, to confronting to "I just don't see what the fuss is about". The museum has a decidedly adult feel, so may not be the ideal place for kids. For those who don't get it, there are impressive views over the Derwent River along with a cafe and Morilla Winery on site. The building itself is quite interesting and is worth a look at. There are also some "traditional art" pieces, including some mummies. Ferries run at least five times a day from Brooke St Pier which offers a scenic journey along the Derwent River. Bookings for the ferry are required and cost $20 one-way or return. You can also drive to MONA, with limited parking, or go by bus. }} [[File:TMAG entrance.jpg|thumb|250px|The colonial style exterior of TMAG]] * {{see | name=Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery | alt=TMAG | url=http://www.tmag.tas.gov.au/ | email=tmagmail@tmag.tas.gov.au | address=Dunn Pl | lat=-42.88208 | long=147.33205 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6211 4134 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Free, special exhibits may require paid entry | content=Established in 1843 by the Royal Society of Tasmania, TMAG is an impressive natural history museum, art gallery and herbarium in one. It boasts various exhibits with Tasmanian, Australian and International themes. Displays include wildlife collections, the history of Tasmania, medal and coin collections, indigenous collections, contemporary art and classical art galleries. Islands to Ice is an exciting permanent exhibition of Antarctic natural history, exploration and science that also gives an insight to what it is like to live and work in some of the most inhospitable climates on earth. It is a must see for all Antarctic enthusiasts. }} * {{See |name=Lady Franklin Gallery|alt=Ancanthe|url=https://artstas.com.au/ |address=268 Lenah Valley Road, Lenah Valley|lat=-42.86601|long=147.27805|directions=within Ancanthe Park |lastedit=2022-03-23 |content=Built by Lady Franklin, wife of the governor, in 1842 at her own expense in the style of a Greek temple, the Gallery was entrusted to a local society but neglected for decades after Lady Franklin departed Tasmania, until it was finally handed to the Art Society of Tasmania and since 1948 it has been lovingly restored by the Art Society of Tasmania and now hosts rotating exhibitions of local art. }} * {{see | name=Moonah Arts Centre | alt= | url=https://www.moonahartscentre.org.au/ | email= | address=23-27 Albert Rd, Moonah | lat=-42.848240 | long=147.295274 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-23 | content=A state of the art regional art center designed by Morrison Breytenbach, showing rotating local art exhibitions and hosting community arts activities. }} === Nature and wildlife === [[File:Snow on kunyanyi-Mount Wellington.jpg|thumb|250px|The zig-zag path towards kunyanyi / Mount Wellington]] * {{see | name=Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary | alt= | url=http://bonorong.com.au/ | email=info@bonorong.com.au | address=593 Briggs Rd | lat=-42.70872 | long=147.27151 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6268 1184 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-5PM | price=Adult $25, child $11, under 3 free. Daily tour free, private tours $149-179 | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=Established in 1981, this wildlife sanctuary cares for injured and orphaned wildlife, with all proceeds going to maintaining the park. The park is home to wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, koalas, Tasmanian devils, and a more than 100-year-old cockatoo. Included in admission is a bag of kangaroo feed for the troop of kangaroos in a large enclosure at the back – the kangaroos will eat out of your hand and love getting chest scratches. Tours are held several times a day where they introduce you to the current residents of the sanctuary. They also help discuss ways to help local wildlife if you ever spot one in danger or notice roadkill. Private tours are also available for those willing to pay, which are exceptional and allow for you to get up close and personal with the wildlife. }} * {{see | name=Mount Nelson | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nelson Rd | lat=-42.92425 | long=147.34409 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A lookout that is a great, but lower altitude, alternative to the more popular Mount Wellington, still with some impressive views of Hobart and the Derwent River. There is also a restaurant and a picnic area at the top so you can bask in the views while having a bite to eat. For those who enjoy a leisurely trek there are two walks to climb up or down the mountain that lead to Sandy Bay near Wrest Point Casino or through the Truganini Reserve to the Channel Highway. }} * {{see | name=Mount Wellington | alt=Indigenous name Kunanyi | url=https://www.wellingtonpark.org.au/ | email=info@wellingtonpark.org.au | address=Wellington Park | lat=-42.8963 | long=147.2376 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6238 2176 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free | wikipedia=Mount Wellington (Tasmania) |lastedit=2019-03-05| content=Situated within Wellington Park, Mt Wellington peaks at 1,270&nbsp;m with breathtaking views of the Derwent River and Greater Hobart Region. At the top of the road up the mountain is the Pinnacle Observation Shelter, an indoor viewing area with binoculars. There are also several other lookouts on the way up to the peak. Your main options for heading up the mountain include taking your own car, going with a private tour operator or walking, if you are adventurous. Temperatures at the summit can range from 4-13°C in summer to -2-4°C in winter, so be sure to bring along warm clothes. It will often be 10-15° cooler at the top of Mt Wellington than it is in Hobart. There are multiple activities to do on the mountains, including cycling and hiking. See the [[Hobart#Do| Do]] section below for more information. | wikidata=Q204552}} * {{see | name=Queens Domain |alt=The Domain | url= | email= | address=Off Brooker Ave | lat=-42.8664 | long=147.3237 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Walk from the city a few blocks towards the Tasman bridge and you'll suddenly be out of the city and amongst greenery and trees on the Domain. (Head towards the bridge from the city but once you see greenery head up the hill towards it.) Of note is the fact that you can '''always''' be sure to see plenty of parrots in the trees. They are relatively tame so it's a superb opportunity to see some brightly coloured parrots up close. }} * {{see | name=Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens | alt= | url=http://www.rtbg.tas.gov.au/ | email=rtbg@rtbg.tas.gov.au | address=Lower Domain Rd, Queens Domain | lat=-42.86594 | long=147.329935 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6236 3076 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily, Oct-Mar: 8AM-6:30PM, Apr-Sep: 8AM-5PM | price=Entry by donations | content=Established in 1818 within the grounds of The Domain. The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens showcase 6,500 species, including over 400 Tasmanian species. One of the most popular displays here is the Subantarctic Plant House, which contains subantarctic plant species collected by staff from [[Macquarie Island]] and is climate controlled to mimic cold high latitude environments. Other collections include traditional Japanese and Chinese gardens, a rain garden, a lily pond and the Tasmanian Fernery. }} === The stars and aurora === Hobart is one of the most easily accessible places to view the [[Northern Lights#The Southern Lights|'''Southern Lights''']] or '''''Aurora Australis'''''. Your chances depend on the space weather, and to have a good chance of seeing the aurora you'll want a K-Index above 6. You can see the current K-Index (updated every 20 minutes) at the [https://www.sws.bom.gov.au/ Australia Space Weather Services]. They have forecasts there for space weather for the next several days. ==Do== [[File:HOBART WATERFRONT STATUARY.jpg|thumb|Hobart waterfront statuary: Antarctic explorers]] * '''Polar Pathways''' is a historical walking and driving tour of Hobart’s associations with Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. They include bronze statues commemorating the exploits of explorers and Hadley’s Hotel where Roald Amundsen stayed in March 1912 after his journey from the South Pole. Go to the Tasmania Travel Information Centre and pick up a Polar Pathways brochure and map. * {{do | name=Bellerive Oval | alt=Blundstone Arena | url=https://www.blundstonearena.com.au/ | email= | address=15 Derwent St, Bellerive | lat=-42.8772 | long=147.3736 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bellerive Oval | lastedit=2023-09-11 | content=With a capacity of 19,500, this hosts the Tasmania State cricket team, Hobart Hurricanes in Big Bash T20 cricket league, and in winter is a secondary ground for North Melbourne AFL. }} ===Cinema=== * {{do | name=State Cinema | alt= | url=http://www.statecinema.com.au/ | email= | address=375 Elizabeth St | lat=-42.87229 | long=147.31478 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 6318 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM-9PM | price= | content=A local independent cinema that is over 100 years old and has witnessed many changes in its lifetime from silent black and white films through to the modern technology of today. This cinema specialises in a variety of movies including local, Australian and International film which tend away from the typical blockbuster and mainstream genres. Along with 8 theatres, a bar, a cafe and a bookshop there is also a rooftop cinema which is open during the warmer months. }} * {{do | name=Village Cinemas | alt= | url=http://villagecinemas.com.au/cinemas/hobart | email= | address=181 Collins St | lat=-42.88580 | long=147.32381 | directions= | phone=1300 555 400 (local rate) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM-9:30PM | price= | content=Village is an Australia-wide cinema that has several locations within Hobart, with the Collins St cinema being their main CBD outlet. They primarily screen mainstream and blockbuster movies. }} ===Gambling=== [[File:Wrest Point Casino.jpg|thumb|Wrest Point Hotel Casino, looking very 1970s]] If you find gambling and betting entertaining then Hobart has a modest set of venues for you to explore. The most well known is Wrest Point Casino, which happens to be the very first legal casino built in Australia. Other options include the local racecourse for horse and hound racing along with various lotteries and statewide betting agencies. * {{do | name=Elwick Racecourse | alt=Ladbrokes Park Elwick | url=https://www.trchobart.com.au/ | email= | address=6 Goodwood Rd | lat=-42.8241 | long=147.2874 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6272 9492 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7688404 | content=The local racecourse that hosts horse racing and greyhound racing with around 102 race meeting and 210 trial days per year. The main yearly race event is the Hobart Cup, Tasmania's primary thoroughbred horse race held on in February each year. }} * {{do | name=Wrest Point Hotel Casino | alt= | url=http://www.wrestpoint.com.au/ | email=email@wrestpoint.com.au | address=410 Sandy Bay Rd | lat=-42.9019 | long=147.3363 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6211 1750 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=?AM-5AM | price= | content=Boasting the title of Australia's first casino, Wrest Point have been renovated several times but still feel like it is somewhat stuck in the 1970s. It still functions perfectly fine as a casino or for a drink. There are various restaurants and bars throughout the complex including a French cuisine inspired revolving restaurant at the top of the tower. On the gambling front, the offering is modest. Most of the gaming areas are poker machines (slot machines), and the table gaming floor is quite small and approachable. }} ===Factory tours=== * {{do | name=Cascade Brewery | alt= | url=https://www.cascadebreweryco.com.au/ | email= | address=140 Cascade Rd | lat=-42.8957 | long=147.2932 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6224 1117 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-4PM | price=Brewery tour: adult $25, senior or concession $20. Heritage tour: adult $15, child $8 | wikidata=Q5048113 | content=Australia's oldest brewery offers two tours for you to enjoy. The Brewery Tour explores within the brewery where you learn about their primary beers and how they are produced before visiting the Woodstock Gardens. This tour includes 3 drink tokens to use during the tour, and is only for people above 16 years old who do not require a walking aid. ​Visitors taking the brewery tour must wear flat, covered shoes and long pants. The alternative Heritage Tour is for people of all ages and explores the surrounding area of the brewery including the gardens and the Cascade museum, with tastings of beers provided for those above the age of 18. Both tours run for around 1.5&nbsp;hours. }} * {{do | name=Moo Brew | alt= | url=http://moobrew.com.au/ | email=info@moobrew.com.au | address=76a Cove Hill Rd | lat=-42.73421 | long=147.24741 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6277 9900 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=F 12:45PM-1:45PM | price=$30 | content=This microbrewery specialises in making five types of beer: a Pilsner, a German-style Hefeweizen, a Belgian Pale Ale, an American Pale Ale and an American Dark Ale. The beer ingredients are kept simple and are unpasteurised, with no preservatives or additives. Their tour gives you a behind the scenes look at just how they make their beers along with samples. A complimentary bus operates from Brooke St Pier in the city at noon and stops at MONA to pick up any extra passengers around 12:30PM. There is also ample parking on-site. }} ===Scenic tours=== * '''Walk''', the tourist information centre has a free booklet of walks in Hobart and up Mt Wellington. Kingston has a similar booklet * {{do | name=Mount Wellington Descent | alt= | url=https://underdownunder.com.au/tour/mount-wellington-descent/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=From $95 pp | content=Provides downhill bicycle tours from the summit of Mt Wellington, with transport from Hobart included. }} *[https://mtwellingtonexplorer.com.au/ '''Mount Wellington Shuttle''']. Bus that takes you to the top of Mt Wellington and spend some time looking out over the city before bringing you back to the city centre. Includes a tour guide that provides information on the drive up. * {{do | name=Sightseeing cruises | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-09-13 | content=There are several options for taking a cruise from Hobart, including harbour cruises, river cruises, and even longer expeditions to explore the surrounding areas. Some cruise operators offer combined packages that include other activities, such as wildlife encounters, wine tastings, or guided tours. }} ** {{do | name=Peppermint Bay Cruise | alt= | url=http://peppermintbay.com.au | email= | address=Brooke St Pier, Sullivans Cove | lat=-42.8846 | long=147.3325 | directions= | phone=1300 137 919 (local rate) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Departs 11AM, Returns 4PM | price=Adult $98, child $68 | content=You start off in Hobart and board a passenger yacht (catamaran), which takes you for a cruise around the bay. On the way to Peppermint Bay the crew points out different sites like Salmon Farms, Local Sealife, and geographic wonders. When you arrive at Peppermint Bay you are treated to a Tasmanian clambake, of clam chowder, fish, and rock lobster. The restaurant decor includes rich hardwood floors and a wall that is completely made of glass so that you can enjoy the picturesque scenery. }} ===Theatre & music=== Hobart is fast becoming a cultural hub within Tasmania and boasts some well known theatres and music venues, including the famous Theatre Royal. Those looking for local music gigs should check out [http://thedwarf.com.au/gig-guide/Tasmania '''The Dwarf Gig Guide'''] for Tasmania. The guide has information on all live music gigs for the next month in advance. * {{do | name=Federation Concert Hall | alt= | url=http://www.tso.com.au/ | email= boxoffice@tso.com.au | address=1 Davey St | lat=-42.8804 | long=147.3342 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6232 4450 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Established in 2000, the Federation Concert Hall is home to the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. The concert hall is an international standard venue and one of Hobart's premier entertainment venues. It is connected to the adjacent Hotel Grand Chancellor, with a 1100-seat capacity in the hall and also additional conference and exhibition rooms.}} * {{do | name=Peacock Theatre | alt=Salamanca Arts Centre | url=http://www.salarts.org.au/venue/peacock-theatre/ | email= | address=77 Salamanca Pl | lat=-42.88683 | long=147.33381 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 8414 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of Hobart's smaller theatres, seating 165, the Peacock is located in the heart of the historic Salamanca Place. The stage itself has a natural sandstone backdrop, owing to the fact the theatre was built into the foot of a quarry. }} * {{do | name=Theatre Royal | alt= | url=http://www.theatreroyal.com.au/ | email= | address=29 Campbell St | lat=-42.87951 | long=147.33115 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6233 2299 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Tour: adults $12, concession/pensioners $10 | content=Hobart's famous theatre, and Australia's oldest, that opened in 1837 and has been saved from demolition on countless occasions. The interior fittings of the theatre contrast striking red velvet seating and curtains against white and gold walls with intricate detailing. You don't have to watch a show to visit the theatre as a 45-minute tour operates on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11AM. }} * {{do | name=Odeon Theater | alt= | url=https://www.odeontheatre.com.au/ | email=info@odeontheatre.com.au | address=167 Liverpool St | lat=-42.883 | long=147.3246 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-23 | content=Once the most luxurious cinema in Tasmania, the Odeon is now a premier live music and comedy destination, leased by the Museum of New and Old Art. During the annual arts festivals MONA FOMA and Dark MOFO, it is the home of significant art installations, and operates as a music venue the rest of the year. }} * {{do | name=The Playhouse Theatre | alt= | url=http://playhouse.org.au/ | email= | address=106 Bathurst St | lat=-42.88139 | long=147.32507 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 1536 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another one of Hobart's theatres, it was built as a chapel. While it is not as opulent as the Theatre Royal, The Playhouse still has some charm and hosts many plays throughout the year. Be sure to check out its website for what's on. }} ===Wineries=== [[File:Granton Vineyard among the grapevines.jpg|thumb|It's nearly harvest time]] The Greater Hobart region is part of the '''Southern Wine Route''' in Tasmania. Owing to the cool climate this region is known for producing a superb range of cool-climate wines including cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, gewurztraminer, pinot gris, pinot noir, riesling and sauvignon blanc. Hobart's primary wine growing region, Coal River Valley, lies just east of the Derwent River around Cambridge and [[Richmond (Tasmania)| Richmond]]. There are also other wineries around Hobart, including north around the [[Derwent Valley]] and west around the [[Huon Trail]]. Be sure to check out [http://winetasmania.com.au/ '''Wine Tasmania'''], which has further information on Tasmania's wine regions. * {{do | name=Charles Reuben Estate | url= | email= | address=777 Middle Tea Tree Road, Tea Tree 7017 | lat=-42.7027 | long=147.3590 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6268 1702 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W-Su | price= | content= The range of wines by winemaker Tim Krushka includes pinot noir, chardonnay, a Bordeaux-blend red and a sauvignon blanc semillon. }} * {{do | name=Coal Valley Vineyard | url=http://www.coalvalley.com.au | email= | address=257 Richmond Road, Cambridge 7170 | lat=-42.8183 | long=147.4461| directions= | phone=+61 3 6248 5367 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Th-Su from 10AM - 4PM | price= | content= Coal Valley's range includes riesling, chardonnay, pinot noir, tempranillo and a cabernet merlot blend. }} * {{do | name=Moorilla | url=http://moorilla.com.au/ | email= | address=655 Main Rd, Berriedale |lat=-42.8116 | long=147.2567 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6277 9900 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open Daily | price= | content= Conor van der Reest is Moorilla's winemaker. Moorilla's range includes sparking, riesling, sauvignon blanc, chardonnay and pinot noir. }} * {{do | name=Stefano Lubiana Wines | url=https://slw.com.au/ | email= | address=60 Rowbottoms Rd, Granton |lat=-42.7498 | long=147.2034 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6263 6457 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W-Su 11AM-4PM | price= | content= Established in 1990, the family-owned winery includes a renovated restaurant with a Mediterranean feel. }} ====Wine tours==== Due to the distances and lack of public transport to many of the wineries, the best way of visiting them is by car. There are also places that organised tours, usually on weekends, such as [http://www.boutiquewinetourstas.com.au/ Boutique Wine Tours]. ==Buy== ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Cat and Fiddle Arcade | alt= | url=http://catandfiddlearcade.com/ | email= | address=49-51 Murray St | lat=-42.88254 | long=147.32689 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6231 2088 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-5:30PM, Su 10AM-4PM | price= | content=A renovated shopping mall that has fast become a premier shopping destination in Hobart, with many national Australian retailers now calling the Cat and Fiddle home. The mall has long been famous for an animated clock within the food court that acts out ''The Cat and the Fiddle'' nursery rhyme on the hour. }} * {{buy | name=Elizabeth Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Elizabeth St | lat=-42.88173 | long=147.32809 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2022-03-23| content=A pedestrianised street in the heart of Hobart's CBD that has become one of the main shopping strips of the city. There are also several connecting laneways and arcades that lead to other shopping venues, so don't be afraid to deviate from the main street. }} * {{buy | name=Myer | alt= | url=http://www.myer.com.au/ | email= | address=55 Murray St | lat=-42.88268 | long=147.32620 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6213 6100 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 9AM-6PM, F 9AM-7PM, Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 10AM-4PM | price= | content=A standalone of Australia's largest department store chain selling homewares, bedding, electronics, cosmetics, fashion, accessories, etc. On the fashion front at Myer they stock many popular Australian and International designer labels in addition to their own range of private brands. }} ===Markets=== [[Image:Salamanca_Market_May.JPG|250px|thumb|right|The bustling Salamanca Markets]] *{{Buy|name=Hobart Twilight Market|url=https://hobarttwilightmarket.com.au |address=Brooke St Pier|hours=March to June, see website for changing dates|lastedit=2025-07-27|content=A lively handmade and food market on the pier of Hobart. A second market with the same stallholders also runs sometimes at Long Beach Park, Sandy Bay}} * {{buy | name=Farm Gate Market | alt= | url=http://farmgatemarket.com.au/ | email= | address=Cnr of Melville St & Elizabeth St | lat=-42.88012 | long=147.32455 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su 9AM-1PM | price= | content=This outdoor market is brimming with fresh seasonal produce, dairy products, wine and other food items from around Tasmania. If you consider yourself a foodie then this is a must when visiting Hobart. }} * {{buy | name=Salamanca Market | alt= | url=https://www.salamancamarket.com.au | email= | address=Salamanca Pl | lat=-42.88655 | long=147.33131 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Sa 8:30AM-3PM | price= | content=A major Saturday morning attraction for locals and visitors. [https://www.openstreetmap.org/way/1336340271 Situated] in front of large sandstone warehouses which have been converted into a maze of craftsmen's workshops, giftshops, restaurants and other 'artsy-crafty' shops. Market stalls are one of the cheapest places to buy Tasmanian timber products. }} ===Bookstores=== * {{buy | name=Fullers Bookshop | alt= | url=http://www.fullersbookshop.com.au/ | email= | address=131 Collins St | lat=-42.88425 | long=147.32603 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 3800 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 9AM-6PM, Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 10AM-4PM | price= |lastedit=2022-03-23| content=Established in 1920, Fullers is a popular independent bookstore that also runs a local publishing house. They often host book signings and events. While specialists in local authors, they also offer bestsellers, stationery, puzzles & games, and a large range of local guides. After you have made your purchase you can sit in the cafe area to read your book while having something to eat or drink. }} * {{buy | name=Hobart Bookshop | alt= | url=http://www.hobartbookshop.com.au/ | email= | address=22 Salamanca Sq | lat=-42.88744 | long=147.33235 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6223 1803 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 9AM-6PM, Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 10AM-5PM | price= | content=A small but cosy feeling bookstore that is nearly overflowing with a whole range of books to choose from. They have a huge range of educational books and also have a Tasmanian book section. For any book purchases they offer complimentary gift-wrapping. }} * {{buy | name=State Cinema Bookstore | alt= | url=http://statecinemabookstore.com.au/ | email= | address=373 Elizabeth St | lat=-42.8725 | long=147.3150 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 6318 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-6:30PM, F Sa 10AM-9PM | price= | content=Adjacent to the State Cinema (hence the name), this bookshop specialises in non-fiction, travel, art, fashion, architecture along with a range of fiction titles. They also have a great range of stationery items. }} *{{Buy|name=Cracked and Spineless New and Used Books|address=Imperial Arcade, 138 Collins St|directions=inside the arcade and up a set of stairs at the back of the building|lat=-42.88311|long=147.32811|hours=M-F 9AM-5:30PM, Sa 9:30AM-4PM |lastedit=2021-04-25|content=A mixed secondhand and new bookstore, best known for once finding a lost Napoleonic-era diary in the back room,. They feature an extremely eclectic range of books and have been Hobart's premier secondhand bookstore for 30 years. Their social media is extremely popular in Hobart for its off-colour jokes.}} ===Providores=== Sure you could head on over to one of the national supermarket chains, Coles and Woolworths, but why do that when Hobart is brimming with plenty of unique providores, delis and specialty food stores for you to sample some of Tasmania's finest food and produce. * {{buy | name=Truckle & co. | alt= | url=http://www.truckleandco.com.au/ | email= | address=141 Bathurst St | lat=-42.88282 | long=147.32285 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 9978 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 8AM-6PM, Sa 8AM-4PM | price= | content=For all things Italian Truckle & co. is a one-stop shop. There is an impressive array of cheeses for you to sample and purchase along with a whole range of smallgoods, pastas, oils, truffles, etc. }} * {{buy | name=Spice World | alt= | url=http://www.spiceworld.com.au/ | email= | address=Shop 10, Bank Arcade, 2-10 Liverpool St | lat=-42.88075 | long=147.32775 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6231 6270 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 8:30AM-6PM, Sa 9AM-4PM | price= | content=If you love herbs and spices this is the place to go. With over 300 types of herbs, spices and curry mixes there is bound to be something you want. They also sell other cooking staples such as flours, nuts, pulses, rices and essences. }} * {{buy | name=Wursthaus Kitchen | alt= | url=http://www.wursthauskitchen.com.au/ | email= | address=1 Montpelier Retreat | lat=-42.88707 | long=147.33156 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6224 0644 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 8AM-6PM, Sa 8AM-5PM, Su 9AM-5PM | price= | content=One of Hobart's famous establishments that specialises in all things food and wine. This gourmet food shop sells a whole range of items including deli goods, sausages (or ''wurst'' for those who speak German), wines, cheeses, pre-prepared meals and breads. They also hold cooking classes and can arrange hampers and catering orders. }} * {{buy | name=The Italian Pantry | alt= | url=http://www.italianpantry.com.au/ | email= | address=27-29 Federal Street, North Hobart | lat=-42.8695 | long=147.3183 | directions= | phone=+61 3 62312788 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This family-run business has been providing Tasmania with the best provincial Italian food, regional wines and beers along with aperitif spirits since 2006. The business has grown and flourished and developed in-house pasta manufacturing, restaurant and cooking school. }} ==Eat== [[File:Tasmanian salmon on a pea and corn fritter.jpg|thumb|Tasmanian salmon on a pea and corn fritter]] Hobart has a profusion of eating establishments ranging from the cheap to the luxuriously expensive. Freshly caught [[seafood]] is a specialty of the region, and there are several excellent seafood restaurants. Deep-sea Trevalla is unique to Tasmania and must be tried. Tasmanian lobster is also excellent. Scallop pie is also unique to Tasmania and can be easily purchased from the Salamanca Market food stalls. Restaurants are concentrated in the Salamanca and North Hobart areas. ===Budget=== *{{eat | name=Jackman & McRoss | url=https://www.facebook.com/Jackman-and-McRoss-139201119459938/ | email= | address=57 Hampden Rd | lat=-42.88969 | long=147.33346 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6223 3186 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM-5PM | price= | content=A Hobart institution with fantastic bakery treats - a must visit when in town. Walk in and take one look at the counter display and you'll see why. Eat-in is table service with a different price list. Short walk from Salamanca Place - head up the stairs by the gallery, keep walking along the road and it's just on the right. You can't miss it, there will be lots of cars parked nearby. }} * {{eat | name=Machine Laundry Cafe | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Machine-Laundry-Cafe/113296732063100 | email= | address=12 Salamanca Sq | lat=-42.88760 | long=147.33332 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6224 9922 | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6224 7967 | hours=M-Sa 7:30AM-5PM, Su 8:30AM-5PM | price= | content=This cafe (which also houses a laundromat, hence the name) is a good place for a filling breakfast of $8-$15. Eggs benedict and banana and ricotta pancakes are recommended. }} *{{eat | name=Tricycle Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.tricyclecafe.com.au/ | email= | address=77 Salamanca Place | lat=-42.88690 | long=147.33356 | directions=tucked in next to the Peacock Theatre | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Outdoor dining on the Path with excellent coffee and outstanding muffins. Artisan sourdough, Tasmanian vintage cheeses with a cool vibe. Baked eggs with yoghurt and chutney are a surprising combination that works. }} *{{eat | name=Villino Espresso | url=http://www.villino.com.au/ | email= | address=30 Criterion St | lat=-42.88140 | long=147.32568 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6231 0890 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 8AM-4:30PM, Sa 9AM-3PM | price= | content=Small cafe in the CBD of Hobart. Good coffee made well and consistently. }} * {{eat | name=Bury Me Standing | alt= | url=https://www.burymestanding.com.au/ | email=alesha@burymestanding.com.au | address=83-85 Bathurst Street | lat=-42.88085 | long=147.325499 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M–Sa 7:30AM–2:30PM, Su 8AM–1PM | price= | lastedit=2022-09-16 | content=Bagels, coffee, and pastries, with mostly plant-based options. }} ===Mid-range=== Many of the establishments listed in the [[#Drink|Drink]] section below also serve food. * {{eat | name=Mures Fish Centre | alt= | url=http://www.mures.com.au/ | email= | address=Victoria Dock |lat=-42.8823 | long=147.3340 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6231 1999 (upper deck) or +61 3 6231 2121 (lower deck) | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6234 4464 | hours= | price= | content=Mures has two sections: the upper deck is a stylish seafood restaurant (mains $20-30); the lower deck is a cafeteria style bistro (mains approx $10) and served mainly deep fried fish and the like. Reservations are usually required for the upper deck. Coffee and ice-cream is also available in a casual environment on the lower deck. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=The Drunken Admiral | alt= | url=http://drunkenadmiral.com.au/ | email= | address=19 Old Wharf, Hobart Town | lat=-42.8812 | long=147.3349 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 1903 | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6231 1259 | hours=Dinner daily from 6PM | price=Mains $21.90-31.90 | content=Wonderful restaurant close to Mures. The seafood platter is highly recommended. It is important to make a reservation as this is a popular restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Ball and Chain | alt= | url=http://ballandchain.com.au/ | email= | address=87 Salamanca Pl | lat=-42.88685 | long=147.33439 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-08-14 | content=Long established and very popular steakhouse. }} ==Drink== [[File:Cascade Brewery 1.jpg|thumb|Cascade Brewery, the oldest in Australia]] ===Bars=== * {{drink | name=Bar Celona | alt= | url=http://barcelonahobart.com/ | email= | address=45 Salamanca Pl | lat=-42.88715 | long=147.33247| directions= | phone=+61 3 6224 7557 | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6224 7388 | hours= | price= | content=Bar Celona is a combined wine bar and cafe. The decor is open and wood paneled: while it can get a bit noisy, it's a good place to escape some of the much more crowded bars on a busy weekend night, especially if you want to have a nice glass or two of wine. }} * {{drink | name=The Lower House | alt= | url=http://www.thelowerhouse.com.au/ | email= | address=9 Murray St | lat=-42.88467 | long=147.33057 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The mildly witty name of this lounge bar across the road from parliament is a decent metaphor for the atmosphere. Colloquially known as 'lower' it is a pre-drinking venue of choice for a mostly young crowd. There is seating inside, as well as a reasonably large outside area. They do food, but it does get very crowded after about 10PM. Directly across the lane from Mobius. }} * {{drink | name=Mobius Lounge Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Despard St | lat=-42.88440 | long=147.33097 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-08-14 | content=Depending on who you ask, Mobius will be described as either the seediest or the best club in Hobart. The grumpy bouncers and reasonably seedy atmosphere though, can't detract from the fact that the DJs are clearly some of the best in Hobart and the dancefloor is regularly full. }} * {{drink | name=The Lark Distillery | alt= | url=https://larkdistillery.com/ | email=tours@larkdistillery.com.au | address=14 Davey St | lat=-42.88292 | long=147.33204 | directions=Next to the Tourist Information Centre | phone=+61 3 6231 9088 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10AM-till evening | price= | content=The Lark Distillery is the first licensed distillery in Tasmania since 1839 and now operates as a bar, store and distillery in one. It produces fine single malt whiskey and other liqueurs. It provides free tastings of liqueurs and spirits and charges a small fee to taste their 3 types of whiskeys ($2 each tasting or $5 for all 3). Their bush liqueur also has a distinctive taste through the use of pepperberries. There are several live music performances a week. Entry is always free and students receive a 10% discount on drinks. }} * {{drink | name=Cargo Bar Lounge | alt= | url=http://www.cargobarsalamanca.com.au/ | email= | address=47-51 Salamanca Pl | lat=-42.88687 | long=147.33283 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6223 7788 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Modern feel with a mix of outdoor seating on the street, or a quieter secluded booth style seating at the back of the bar. Drinks are the usual fare; a selection of beers on tap, a good choice of wines and most spirits. }} * {{drink | name=Flamingo's Dance Bar | alt= | url=http://www.flamingosbar.com | email= | address=112 Murray St |lat=-42.88398 | long=147.32396 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6294 6173 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2021-04-25| content=Hobart's only gay bar. This place is small and intimate and it goes off on Friday and Saturday night, especially during the summer months. They also put on a pretty wild New Year's Eve party. }} ===Pubs=== * {{drink | name=The New Sydney Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=87 Bathurst St | lat=-42.8808 | long=147.3254 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the most popular inner-city pubs, the cosy New Sydney is home to Hobart's Irish community and offers an Irish pub atmosphere rather more authentic than that of an Irish theme pub (see Irish Murphy's, below). Large range of imported and local beers on tap. }} * {{drink | name=Republic Bar & Cafe | alt= | url=http://www.republicbar.com/ | email= | address=299 Elizabeth St North Hobart | lat=-42.8747 | long=147.3174 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 6954 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=In its day, the former Empire Hotel was one of Hobart's roughest pubs, hosting a shoot-out during the 1980s. Australian cricketer Max Walker grew up in the Empire, which was run by his parents. After a re-modelling and re-branding as the Republic Bar in the mid-1990s, it has become one of the State's most popular pubs. Today the Republic Bar is Tasmania's premier music venue, with live music 7 days. It hosts an award winning restaurant, art gallery and a large covered beer garden that is good all year round. }} * {{drink | name=The Shipwright's Arms | alt= | url= | email= | address=29 Trumpeter St | lat=-42.8915 | long=147.3366 | directions= | phone=+61 3 62235551 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It's in Battery Point, one of Australia's oldest suburbs, the Arms opened in 1842. Cosy fires and Chesterfields is the atmosphere here and the nautical theme attracts participants in the Sydney-Hobart yacht race around the new year. A popular local pub, slightly off the tourist trail, the beer garden is an attractive place for a meal on summer evenings. }} * {{drink | name=Irish Murphy's | alt= | url=http://www.irishmurphys.com.au/ | email=hobart@irishmurphys.com.au | address=21 Salamanca Pl |lat=-42.88659 | long=147.33086 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6223 1119 | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6223 1133 | hours= | price= | content=Irish Murphy's is a busy Irish pub on one of the prime nightlife strips. It has a young crowd dancing to pop hits from their childhood in a fake Irish franchise pub. The meals are quite good, and there's a fantastic view over the old warehouses at Salamanca. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Hobart moonrise from Mt Wellington.jpg|thumb|Night view of Hobart]] ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alexandra on Battery | alt= | url= | email= | address=3 Sonning Crescent, Sandy Bay |lat=-42.9165 | long=147.3565 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6225 2574 | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6225 3522 | price=$80-90 per night | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Brunswick Hotel | url=http://brunswickhotelhobart.com.au | address=67 Liverpool St | lat=-42.8808 | long=147.3274 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 4981 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=$23 and up | checkin= | checkout=10:30AM | content=Great location a half block from the pedestrian mall on Elizabeth Street. Dorm rooms start at $23. Private en suite rooms start at $65. Big covered outdoor area in the back. Very nice bar and restaurant out front. }} * {{sleep | name=Dr Syntax Hotel | alt= | url=http://doctorsyntaxhotel.com.au/ | email=tom@doctorsyntax.com.au | address=139 Sandy Bay Rd | lat=-42.8937 | long=147.3256 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6223 6258 | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6224 0132 | checkin= | checkout= | price=$45-70 | content=Sandy Bay. Pub-style accommodation. }} * {{sleep | name=Hobart Central YHA | alt= | url=https://www.yha.com.au/hostels/tas/hobart-surrounds/hobart-yha-backpacker-accommodation/ | email=hobartcentral@yha.com.au | address=9 Argyle St | lat=-42.88175 | long=147.33101 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-11 | content=Hobart Central YHA is the most centrally located backpacker accommodation in Hobart, only a block from the city's waterfront. No parking. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Battery Point Boutique Accommodation | alt= | url=http://www.batterypointaccommodation.com.au | email=bookings@batterypointaccommodation.com.au | address=27-29 Hampden Rd | lat=-42.8893 | long=147.3355 | directions= | phone=+61 422 629432 | tollfree= | fax= | price=$145-210 per night | checkin= | checkout= | content=Self-contained apartments in historic Battery Point. }} * {{sleep | name=Motel 429 | alt= | url=http://www.motel429.com.au/ | email=sales@motel429.com.au | address=429 Sandy Bay Rd |lat=-42.9047 | long=147.3373 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6225 2511 | tollfree= | fax=+61 3 6225 4354 | price=$99-113 per night | checkin= | checkout= | content=Sandy Bay. }} * {{sleep | name=Rydges Hobart | alt= | url=https://www.rydges.com/accommodation/hobart-tas/hobart/ | email= | address=393 Argyle St | lat=-42.8670 | long=147.3136 | directions=Cnr Argyle Street & Lewis Street | phone=1300 857 922 (local rate) | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= Rydges Hobart is 2 km from Hobart's central business district. A history-themed hotel in a heritage-listed building. }} *{{sleep | name=Somerset on the Pier Hobart | alt= | url=http://www.somerset.com/en/australia/hobart/somerset_on_the_pier.html | email=enquiry.hobart@the-ascott.com | address=Elizabeth Street Pier | lat=-42.88433 | long=147.33429 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6220 6600 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-07 | content=Somerset on the Pier is an award-winning transformation of the early 1930s pier building, offering views of the River Derwent and Historic Sullivan's Cove. All 56 apartments, which range from one-bedroom executives to two-bedroom premiers are non-smoking, and have a kitchen and broadband internet access. }} *{{sleep | name=Somerset on Salamanca Hobart | alt= | url=http://www.somerset.com/en/australia/hobart/somerset_on_salamanca.html | email=enquiry.hobart@the-ascott.com | address=No 8 Salamanca Place | lat=-42.88660 | long=147.33547 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6220 6600 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-09-07 | content=The serviced residence offers a range of apartments from studios to two-bedroom executives that comes with a private balcony or courtyard, kitchen and broadband internet access. Situated minutes from the Central Business District and Salamanca Market. }} * {{sleep | name=Waterside Accommodation | alt= | url=http://www.watersideaccommodation.com/ | email= | address=10 Harbinger Ln | lat=-42.7815 | long=147.2557 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6249 2352 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=The Hobart properties are at Austins Ferry. All have views, are on the water and are available for short term rental. }} * {{sleep | name=The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel | alt= | url=http://oldwoolstore.com.au/ | email=reservations@oldwoolstore.com.au | address=1 Macquarie Street | lat=-42.879881 | long=147.33365 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=A fantastic hotel right next to the Hobart Waterfront. The apartments are very comfortable and spacious. Good room-service and a nice restaurant. The Baa Bar is a comfortable place to relax after a big day. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Grand Chancellor | alt= | url=https://www.grandchancellorhotels.com/hotel-grand-chancellor-hobart | email=reservations@hgchobart.com.au | address=1 Davey St | lat=-42.88085 | long=147.33352 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6235 4535 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A waterfront hotel along Sullivan's Cove with 244 rooms that are modern and clean. Facilities include a bar, heated pool, fitness centre and sauna. This hotel can be busy during exhibitions and conferences in the connecting Federation Concert Hall, which is also home to the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. }} * {{sleep | name=Astor Private Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.astorprivatehotel.com.au | email=bookings@astorprivatehotel.com.au | address=157 Macquarie St | lat=-42.88514 | long=147.32698 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6234 6611 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2020-01-24 | content= }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=The Henry Jones Art Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.thehenryjones.com/ | email=reservations@thehenryjones.com | address=25 Hunter St | lat=-42.8813 | long=147.3356 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Winner of a national award for luxury small hotels. }} * {{sleep | name=The Islington | alt= | url=http://www.islingtonhotel.com/ | email= | address=321 Davey St | lat=-42.8965 | long=147.3136 | directions= | phone=+61 3-6220-2123 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=An amazing converted mansion built in 1874. Rooms are fantastic with a view of Mt Wellington and a garden. Public spaces inside the hotel have open fires, original art work and antique furniture. Service is excellent. Room rates can be negotiated, but don't expect cheap (from $400/night). }} * {{Sleep|name=Hadley's Orient Hotel|address=34 Murray St|lat=-42.88381|long=147.3279|directions=Opposite St David's Cathedral|phone=+613 6237 2999|tollfree=1800 131 689|price=$250 per night for a single room and up|lastedit=2022-03-23|content=One of Australia's oldest hotels, built in 1834, today Hadley's is a truly Victorian hotel after extensive restorations in collaboration with heritage experts. Hadley's includes an atrium style restaurant, bar, and also serves high teas, continental breakfasts and offers horse drawn carriage tours of the city, pick up from hotel door. The hotel walls display an exceptional collection of art by winners of Hadley's Art Prize, Australia's richest landscape art award.}} * {{sleep | name=Lenna | alt= | url=http://www.lenna.com.au/ | email=enquiries@lenna.com.au | address=20 Runnymede St | lat=-42.88737 | long=147.33575 | directions= | phone=+61 3 6232 3900 | tollfree=1800 030 633 | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Battery Point. One of Hobart's most stylish boutique hotels. The rooms are very comfortable and well furnished with great views out on Battery Point and the waterfront. }} ==Connect== The Service Tasmania & Parks and Wildlife office on Macquarie St. has free internet. '''Hadleys Hotel''' foyer and Wrest Point Casino have free WiFi hotspot and excellent public bar for sheltering from the cold in comfort. There are numerous internet 'cafes' in the city centre. The State Library building in Macquarie St also offers free wifi. Many coffee shops offer free wireless internet with a purchase. Hobart City Council offers free wifi inside Franklin Square. == Cope == === Consulates === Almost all consulates in Hobart are honorary, and don't offer help with passports or administrative issues but can provide emergency assistance. Most honorary consulates are filled by local business figures. * {{Flag|Philippines}}{{listing | name=Philippines | alt= | url=https://www.philembassy.org.au/offices/hobart-tas | email=consul@tradesmarts.com.au | address=146 Campbell Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+61 419 608 124 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-24 | content= }} * {{Flag|Netherlands}} {{Listing|name=Netherlands|url=https://www.netherlandsworldwide.nl/countries/australia/about-us/honorary-consul-in-hobart|phone=+61 2 8305 6800|lastedit=2022-03-24|content=Honorary Consul}} * {{Flag|Japan}} {{listing | name=Japan | alt= | url=https://www.melbourne.au.emb-japan.go.jp/consulate-info/hobart.html | email=kclifford@incat.com.au | address=100 Derwent Park Road, Derwent Park | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+61 3 6271 1333 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-24 | content=Honorary Consul-General. }} * {{Flag|Czech Republic}} {{Listing|name=Czech Republic|url=https://www.mzv.cz/sydney/en/about_the_consulate/contacts/australia_honorary_consulate_HOB.html|email=hobart@honorary.mzv.cz|phone=+61 362 693 859|lastedit=2022-03-24|content=Honorary consul}} * {{Flag|Thailand}} {{listing | name=Thailand | alt= | url=https://www.thaiembassy.com/thai-embassies/thai-consulate-in-tasmania-australia | email=achalabun@austarnet.com.au | address=63 Invercargill Rd, Mount Nelson | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+61 3 6224-3811 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-24 | content=Honorary consul-general. }} * {{Flag|Norway}} {{Listing|name=Norway|url=https://www.norway.no/en/australia/norway-australia/consulates/#ConsulateHobart|email=jekennedy@mdgcontracting.com.au|address=Level 3, 85 Macquarie Street|phone=+61 3 6270 2266|lastedit=2022-03-24|content=Honorary consul}} * {{Flag|France}} {{listing | name=France | alt= | url=https://au.ambafrance.org/List-of-Consular-Agencies#Hobart-Tasmania | email=france@consulhobart.com | address=179 Murray St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+61 3 6235 5112 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-24 | content=Honorary consul. }} * {{Flag|Poland}} {{Listing|name=Poland|url=https://www.gov.pl/web/australia-en/honorary-consulates|email=polishconsultas@gmail.com|address=7 Waverly Ave, Mt Stuart|phone=+61 3 62281040|lastedit=2022-03-24|content=Honorary consul}} ==Go next== {{routebox2 |temp1=[[File:AUHWY1.png|22px]] |directionl1=N |minorl1=[[Brighton (Tasmania)|Brighton]] |majorl1=[[Launceston]] |directionr1=S |majorr1=END |temp2={{AUR|A3}} |directionl2=W |majorl2=END |directionr2=NE |minorr2=[[Sorell]] |majorr2=[[Bicheno]] |temp3={{AUR|A6}} |directionl3=SW |minorl3=[[Kingston (Tasmania)|Kingston]] |majorl3=[[Huonville]] |directionr3=N |majorr3=END |temp4={{AUR|A10}} |directionl4=NW |minorl4=[[New Norfolk]] |majorl4=[[Queenstown (Tasmania)|Queenstown]] |directionr4=SE |majorr4=END }} Hobart is a good base for exploring [[Southern Tasmania|Southern Tasmania]] and a great starting point if you plan to explore the rest of [[Tasmania]]. Many nearby destinations are close enough to allow for a day trip from Hobart or even a few days away if you wish. [[File:Casey station from the air.jpg|thumb|Casey station from the air]] *[[Bruny Island]] — Actually two islands connected by a narrow isthmus. Bruny has much to explore from its amazing food and produce to spectacular scenery and lookouts. If you are lucky and hang around until dusk you may spot Little Penguins as they plod from the ocean to their nests at the isthmus. *[[Freycinet National Park]] — On the east coast and home to the famous Wineglass Bay, previously voted one of the top 10 beaches in the world. The rugged natural beauty of Freycinet is spectacular and there are various scenic drives or walks you can take to soak it all up. *[[Huon Trail]] — An expansive region to the south-west of Hobart, incorporating the D'Entrecasteaux Channel and Huon Valley. [[Huonville]] is one of the main towns in this area although there is plenty more to explore in this region. If you continue far south you will reach Cockle Creek, the southernmost point you can drive to in Australia. It's best to take a car to explore the Huon. *[[Mount Field National Park]] — A small, yet impressive National Park just over an Hour north-west of Hobart. The park is home to Russell Falls, one of Tasmania's finest waterfalls, and in winter you can ski down the slopes at Mt Mawson. Stop off at [[New Norfolk]] along the way to explore the charm of this small town. *[[Port Arthur (Tasmania)|Port Arthur]] — A former convict settlement on the [[Tasman Peninsula]] that is steeped in history. A popular day trip from Hobart, there is much to explore on the whole peninsula including [[Tasman National Park]], which is brimming with spectacular views and natural rock formations. *[[Richmond (Tasmania)|Richmond]] — A quaint little town less than 30 minutes north-east from Hobart. The town is home to the oldest bridge in Australia and Australia's oldest intact prison. On the way you can eat and drink your way to Richmond by visiting some of the wineries dotted along the road. {{guidecity}} {{isPartOf|Greater_Hobart}} {{geo|-42.8509|147.291}} f8rf0vd1kihyl1fvvo7bikjtbxzju7j 0 15219 5288844 5286766 2026-06-06T13:15:48Z ~2026-33463-73 2418995 More elaborate 5288844 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Budaors_banner.jpg|caption=Budaörs, in the hilly Buda suburbs}} '''Hungary''' ([[Hungarian phrasebook|Hungarian]]: ''Magyarország'') is a small landlocked country in Europe, at the western boundary of the Eurasian Steppe. Its capital city, [[Budapest]], boasts [[Habsburg Monarchy|Habsburg]] architecture, and ornate Turkish bathhouses remnant of its [[Ottoman Empire|Ottoman]] past, while its villages preserve strong folk traditions. Geographically straddling the Carpathian Mountains and the Peri-Carpathian Steppe, Hungary offers a diverse range of landscapes—from relatively low mountain ranges and thermal hot springs to the Great Plain in the east, along with a variety of lakes and rivers. The vast [[Lake Balaton]] is a key destination for Hungary’s warm summers. ==Regions== {{Regionlist |regionmap=Hungary static map.png|regionmapsize=450px| region1name=[[Central Hungary]] | region1color={{StdColor|T1}} | region1items= [[Budapest]] | region1description= The traveller's main entry point. The capital, [[Budapest]], is situated here. | region2name=[[Lake Balaton]] | region2color={{StdColor|T6}} | region2items= [[Siófok]] | region2description=Ten thousands of visitors a year head to [[Siófok]], the unofficial summer capital of Lake Balaton. | region3name=[[Western Transdanubia]] | region3color={{StdColor|T7}} | region3items= [[Szombathely]], [[Győr]] | region3description=Cities with historic downtowns and beautiful castles near the Austrian border. | region4name=[[Northern Hungary]] | region4color={{StdColor|T2}} | region4items= [[Miskolc]], [[Eger]] | region4description=Great historic towns, wine regions and (cave) baths are to be seen here. | region5name=[[Northern Great Plain]] | region5color={{StdColor|T3}} | region5items= [[Debrecen]], [[Szolnok]] | region5description= | region6name=[[Southern Great Plain]] | region6color={{StdColor|T5}} | region6items= [[Szeged]] | region6description= | region7name=[[Central Transdanubia]] | region7color={{StdColor|T8}} | region7items= | region7description= | region8name=[[Southern Transdanubia]] | region8color={{StdColor|T9}} | region8items= | region8description= }} ==Cities== <!-- DO NOT MAKE CHANGES BEFORE DISCUSSION ON TALK PAGE --> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Budapest]]|wikidata=Q1781}} — with green filled parks, interesting museums, and a pulsating nightlife, Budapest is one of Europe's most delightful and enjoyable cities * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Debrecen]]|wikidata=Q79880}} — the second-largest city in the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Győr]]|wikidata=Q134494}} — there are many cafés, restaurants, boutiques, and nightclubs in its lovely baroque city center * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kecskemét]]|wikidata=Q171357}} — a town famous for its vibrant music scene, plum brandy, and Art Nouveau architecture * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Miskolc]]|wikidata=Q102397}} — with the unique cave bath in [[Miskolc-Tapolca]], the third-largest city in the country, located near the Bükk hills * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nyíregyháza]]|wikidata=Q171223}} — a medium-sized city with a busy water resort, museum village, and annual autumn festival * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pécs]]|wikidata=Q45779}} — a pleasant cultural centre and university town * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Szeged]]|wikidata=Q81581}} — the sunniest city in Hungary * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Székesfehérvár]]|wikidata=Q130212}} — former royal seat, famous for its baroque architecture and museums ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Balaton]]|wikidata=Q6383}} &mdash; the major lake of Hungary and the biggest lake in [[Central Europe]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Hortobágy|Hortobágy National Park]]|wikidata=Q61757}} &mdash; Hungary's largest protected area and the largest semi-natural grassland in Europe ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationHungary.png}} {{seealso|Austro-Hungarian Empire}} [[File:Kurultáj - Vágta, 2014.08.09 (3).JPG|250px|thumb|Horsemen in Kurultaj, an annual reenactment festival held in [[Bugac]] on the [[Great Hungarian Plain|Great Plain]]]] Hungary is one of the 15 most popular tourist destinations in the world, with a [[Budapest|capital]] regarded as [http://whc.unesco.org/archive/advisory_body_evaluation/400bis.pdf one of the most beautiful in the world]. Despite its relatively small size, Hungary is home to numerous World Heritage Sites, UNESCO Biosphere reserves, the second largest thermal lake in the world (Lake Hévíz), the largest lake in Central Europe ([[Lake Balaton]]), and the largest natural grassland in Europe ([[Hortobágy]]). In terms of buildings, Hungary is home to the largest synagogue in Europe (the Great Synagogue of Budapest), the largest medicinal bath in Europe (Széchenyi Medicinal Bath), the third largest church in Europe (Esztergom Basilica), the second largest territorial abbey in the world (Pannonhalma Archabbey), the second largest Baroque castle in the world (Gödöllő), and the largest Early Christian Necropolis outside Italy (Pécs). You can expect to find safe food and water, good safety and a generally stable political climate. Hungary has been ethnically diverse since its inception, and while today over 90% of the population are ethnically Hungarian, pockets of ethnic and cultural Slovaks, Romanians, Germans, [[Roma culture in Europe|Romani/Sinti people]] (Gypsies), and others dot the country. Due to the border changes of Hungary after World War I, over 2 million ethnic and cultural Hungarians live in bordering countries, as well. The Hungarians, otherwise known as Magyars, are the descendants of several tribes from Central Asia, who were believed to be fierce, nomadic horsemen and came to Central Europe in the 9th century. '''Roman Catholicism''' is the traditional religion of the Hungarian people (except in the east, where many are '''Calvinists'''), but modern Hungary is largely a secular society, and less than 20% of Hungarians attend church regularly. ===History=== The region of present-day Hungary was inhabited by various peoples, including [[Celts]], [[Roman Empire|Romans]], Huns, Goths, Avars, and Slavs. The Magyars, a Finno-Ugric nomadic tribe led by Árpád, migrated into the Carpathian Basin. This is considered the foundation of the Hungarian nation. Hungary became a powerful European kingdom, as part of the Latin Christian world. It fought against [[Mongol Empire|Mongol invasions]] and later against the [[Ottoman Empire]]. Its defeat at the hands of the Ottomans in 1526 led to a dynastic crisis until the 1848 revolution. From the end of [[World War I]], Hungary lost territory and population, creating deep national trauma. It was allied with Nazi Germany during most of [[World War II in Europe|World War II]], brutally occupied by the Soviets in 1945 and taken over by communists shortly thereafter. It became a scene of an uprising against Soviet rule in 1956 led by Imre Nagy, but it was crushed. It transitioned to a democracy in 1989. It joined NATO in 1999 and the EU in 2004. Between 2010 and 2026, Hungary was ruled by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who weakened the country's ties to NATO and the EU and its democracy. ===Politics=== Since the inauguration of the new government in 2026, the governing party is called '''Tisza''' (''TEE-sah''; portmanteau for ''Party of Respect and Freedom'' in Hungarian, but also alludes to the name of the Tisza River). It commands a supermajority in the new parliament and wows to reverse the direction of the previous government (this includes the possible forced removal of some public officials appointed previously by them). But as so little time has passed since the election, it is yet to tell what exactly is going to happen with the country. Hence, what can be told is mostly about the previous 16-year era, throughout which the governing party was '''Fidesz''' (pronounced ''FEE-dess'')—it still remains as the second-largest bloc. Coming to power as moderate right-wing in 2010, it started to radicalise in around 2015 and is now a textbook example of a right-wing populist party. Having maintained a supermajority almost continuously, they have shaped the country's political landscape like no other force since the end of Communism: they enacted an entirely rewritten constitution in 2012 and have filled nominally neutral institutions (especially state media) with party-loyal functionaries. Hungary is the most corrupt country in the EU, according to the ''Corruption Perception Index'', with EU-funded projects regularly landing at private businesses close to leaders (even family members). There is also speculation about the previous government's possible Russian ties, as they have made large-scale contracts with Russian agencies in the past, most notably that on the expansion of the country's only nuclear power plant. Their stance on the Russo-Ukrainian War is unclear, but after an increase in harsh rhetoric, the party now routinely uses the Ukrainian government as a scapegoat (e.g., by labelling opposing figures as "Ukrainian spies") and often blocks or threatens to block Ukraine-related EU decisions. Having said that, elections are generally considered to be free and fair, and Fidesz has had a support of circa 45–55% in all parliamentary elections from 2010 to 2022, which can be considered a genuine public support (although critics often attribute this to the overwhelming weight of state and quasi-state media)—that support finally fell to 37% in 2026, in contrast to the 55% of Tisza. Hungary is classified as a "flawed democracy" by ''The Economist'', with roughly the same score as the Philippines and better than some other EU member states (e.g., Romania or Croatia). Nevertheless, the country's status was declared to be an "electoral autocracy" by resolution of the European Parliament in September 2022. There is no prosecution for public criticism of the government (many locals regularly do so), and this has not changed since the handover. As a foreigner, you should have no worries at all provided you observe the usual rules you would in any other country: don't come up with political topics out of the blue, and don't voice a strong opinion unless you know your audience is eager to hear it. There have been reports of general anti-foreigner sentiment and racism against people who look ethnically non-European, especially as Fidesz heavily relies on illegal migration as a campaign topic. However, Hungary seems to lie within the average of the former Eastern Bloc in that regard. Probably the most visible signs of the country's strange situation used to be ''propaganda posters'', placed all around the country even outside of campaign periods—it was quite common to have two or even three totally identical ones in the same bus stop! However, such posters have virtually completely disappeared since the handover. === Climate === Temperatures in Hungary vary from -20°C to 39°C through the year. Distribution and frequency of rainfall are unpredictable due to the continental climate of the country. Heavy storms are frequent after hot summer days, and so do more days long still rainfalls in the autumn. The western part of the country usually receives more rain than the eastern part, and severe droughts may occur in summertime. Weather conditions in the Great Plain can be especially harsh, with hot summers, cold winters, and scant rainfall. === Holidays === * '''1 January''' - New Year's Day * '''15 March''' - National Day (commemorating the 1848 Hungarian revolution and independence war against the Austrian Empire) * '''Flexible''' - Good Friday * '''Flexible''' - Easter * '''1 May''' - International Worker's Day * '''Flexible''' - Pentecost * '''20 August''' - State Foundation Day (also known as St. Stephen's Day) * '''23 October''' - National Day (also known as Republic Day) * '''1 November''' - All Saints Day * '''25-26 December''' - Christmas ===Visitor information === *[https://visithungary.com/ Visit Hungary] ==Talk== {{seealso|Hungarian phrasebook}} [[File:2013.09.09 Balaton (3).JPG|thumb|A road sign welcoming passers by to the town of Vonyarcvashegy near [[Keszthely]] in both the current (Roman) and the ancient Hungarian scripts—the latter of which, also called ''rovásírás'' or the "Hungarian runes," is only used ceremonially or as a sign of national pride]] Hungarians are rightly proud of their unique, complex, sophisticated, richly expressive language, '''[[Hungarian]]''' (''Magyar'' pronounced "mohdyohr"). It is a Uralic language most closely related to Mansi and Khanty of western Siberia. It is further sub-classified into the Finno-Ugric languages which include [[Finnish]] and [[Estonian]]; it is not at all related to any of its neighbours: the Slavic, Germanic, and Romance languages belonging to the Indo-European language family. Although Hungarian is related to Finnish and Estonian, it is not mutually intelligible with either of them. While there are some similarities in the vocabulary, the complicated grammar and pronunciation make it one of the most challenging languages for English speakers to learn. However, modern Hungarian is written in the Latin alphabet, which eliminates the need for English speakers to learn a new script. '''English''' is a mandatory subject in schools in Hungary. However, most Hungarians are not fluent in the language, and their level of proficiency is lower than that of many other European countries. Younger generations and people living in Budapest may be able to hold a decent conversation in English but don't expect the same from people in rural areas. It's best not to expect people to speak English at all in rural parts of the country. '''[[German phrasebook|German]]''' is spoken almost as widely as English and is almost universally spoken near the Austrian border, especially in [[Sopron]], which is officially bilingual and has significant contacts with Vienna due to its accessibility by Vienna suburban trains. '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''', which was compulsory in the Communist era, is spoken by a minority of Hungarians. Speaking Russian to Hungarians is a sensitive issue due to the history of unwanted Soviet domination, so be sure to begin the conversation in Hungarian and ask if the person speaks Russian before proceeding, and only use Russian as a last resort. ==Get in== {{Schengen}} Recognised refugees and stateless persons in possession of a valid travel document issued by the government of any one of the above countries/territories are exempt from obtaining a visa for Hungary (but ''no'' other Schengen country, except [[Germany]] and, for refugees, [[Slovakia]]) for a maximum stay of 90 days in a 180-day period. Citizens of [[Antigua and Barbuda]] are permitted to work in Hungary without the need to obtain a visa for the period of their 90-day visa-free stay. However, this ability to work visa-free does not necessarily extend to other Schengen countries. ===By plane=== [[File:Аэродромы и терминалы-перроны и стоянки, Будапешт RP42743.jpg|thumb|Budapest International Airport with old aircraft on display]] Hungary's international airports are '''[http://www.bud.hu/index.nfo?tPath=/english Liszt Ferenc Airport]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' ({{IATA|BUD}}) in [[Budapest]], '''[http://www.airportdebrecen.hu/ Airport Debrecen]{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' ({{IATA|DEB}}) in [[Debrecen]] and '''[http://www.hevizairport.com/ Hévíz–Balaton Airport]''' ({{IATA|SOB}}) in Sármellék. The Hungarian national carrier, '''Malév''' (Hungarian Airlines) was closed down in early 2012. There are also several '''low cost carriers''' operating to Budapest: for example '''[http://www.ryanair.com Ryanair]''', '''[http://www.wizzair.com Wizzair]''', '''[http://www.easyjet.com Easyjet]''' and '''[http://www.eurowings.com Eurowings]'''. ===By train=== [[Budapest]] is an important railway hub for the whole Hungary and large part of eastern Europe, with frequent trains from [[Austria]], [[Germany]], [[Czechia]] and [[Slovakia]]. There are at least one train daily from [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]], [[Croatia]], [[Italy]], [[Romania]], [[Russia]], [[Slovenia]], [[Serbia]], [[Switzerland]] and [[Ukraine]], as well as through cars from [[Poland]] and seasonal through [[sleeping train|sleepers]] from [[Bulgaria]] and [[Montenegro]]. For detailed info see [[Budapest#By_train]]. You can search for international train connections at [http://www.elvira.hu/ official schedule site] of MÁV, national train company, or at [http://www.bahn.de German Railways website] covering almost whole Europe. ===By car=== [[File:H-vignette 2007.jpg|thumb|As in much of Central Europe, motorways are toll roads. Such physical stickers do not exist anymore, however; instead, you need a "virtual sticker" (e-vignette).]] To enter the country, ensure that your International Motor Insurance Card is valid for Hungary (H) along with the Vehicle Registration and a Power of Attorney from the owner if the car is not yours. The border guards are very strict about allowing cars through without these documents (see excepts below). The Hungarian border control is very strict and thorough. They will not hesitate to conduct a full vehicle search if necessary. Entry from Schengen countries (Austria, Slovenia, Slovakia, Croatia) is out of such border control since the abolition of physical borders. All those remain show light control and due to a bilateral agreement Serbian citizens are also no more undergo a strict border control. However you have to take into consideration that from Schengen area you might undergo a so-called inside-customs control wherever moving/driving in the country. Non-Schengen passengers must take into account facing a strict control upon customs prescriptions from Ukraine and Serbia. Coming from Serbia you are allowed to bring 2 packets of cigarettes into Hungary. If you bring more they will take it and fine for €102. Weapons for hunting are allowed to bring in from any EU member state if you have a European Licence. However with possessing that you may not buy or sell your or a new weapon here. The same is the situation with illicit drugs as well. Infringement of these rules may definitely lead to your immediate arrest! Entry from non-Schengen countries can take quite a long time, in particular in the summer months on the weekends when EU-Nationals are returning north along the E75 corridor from Belgrade, Serbia. The wait lines to get through the border have been as long as 7&nbsp;km with a wait time of up to 6 hours. Alternative border points in Hungary or Croatia can be used to by-pass. If you are driving in from an EU country e.g. Austria, you are required to pull over to check with authorities at the border, otherwise, the borders are open and usually the immigration control kiosk are empty. When driving into Hungary, ensure that the border crossing on the route you choose allows the passage of foreigners. Also some smaller crossings close in the afternoon for the night. It is also required to buy a vignette for driving on highways: €20 for 10 days, €30 for a month as of 2024. === By bus === Several international bus lines go in or through Hungary. You can find timetables and book tickets on [http://www.volanbusz.hu/en/ the homepage of Volánbusz], which is the national bus company and also the local Eurolines representation. Alternatively, [http://www.orangeways.com/en Orangeways bus company]{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offer services on routes between Budapest and Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Poland, Romania and Slovakia. Timetables and online booking are available on their website. On the southern border with [[Serbia]] you shouldn't be surprised when there in the bus a collection is being held for a donation to the border-guards, to let the bus pass faster. ===By ship=== It is possible to enter Hungary by international shipping lines on Danube (Duna) or Tisza rivers. There is a scheduled hydrofoil service on the Danube to and from Vienna and Bratislava between May and September operated by '''[https://mahartpassnave.hu/en Mahart.]''' ===From Slovakia=== * You can use the bus no. 91 of the urban traffic company of Bratislava (DPB) going to Čunovo in order to cross between '''Rajka''' (Hungary) and '''Bratislava''' (Slovakia). In Bratislava, the bus has ''Nový most'' as its terminus, and near the Hungarian border you get on/off at the stop ''Čunovské jazerá'' (you need to signal to the driver if you plan to get off at this stop). From Čunovské jazerá it's a four-kilometer-long straight walk through a flat terrain to the town of Rajka, two kilometers on each side of the border. You may detour to visit a monument at the Austrian-Hungarian-Slovakian three country border. ==Get around== === By plane === Hungary has no regular domestic flights. As Budapest lies in the centre of the country and pretty much any point can be reached within three hours by train or bus, there isn't much need for scheduled domestic flights. However there are many opportunities for people with a valid pilot's license to rent a plane and explore by air. === By public transport === There are multiple trip planning websites for Hungarian public transport. To buy tickets, plan between stations, and for international routes use [https://jegy.mav.hu jegy.mav.hu]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. '''[https://emma.mav.hu/#/ Emma]{{Dead link|date=November 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' is the most complete domestic route planner that unifies data from multiple operators. It includes lasti-mile routing, live locations of vehicles, delays and distruptions. You can also use [https://menetrendek.hu menetrendek.hu]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, Google Maps, [https://apps.kde.org/itinerary/ KDE Itinerary] or the [https://play.google.com/store/apps/dev?id=6371723280654935223 MenetBrand android apps] to plan your trip - these all have generally up to date data as well. Some important words in Hungarian that may be helpful are: *“honnan” - from *“hová” - to *“Autóbusz állomás” - bus station *“naponta” - daily *“munkanapokon” - on workdays ==== By train ==== [[File:MÁV 480-001 2011-02-19 Szeged.JPG|thumb|Intercity train in [[Szeged]]]] The Hungarian National Railway is '''[http://www.mav-start.hu/ MÁV]''' and '''[http://www.gysev.hu GYSEV]''' (some lines in the west of the country). The train network is star-shaped (hub-and-spoke), fanning out from the centre at [[Budapest]]. This is caused by history because half of the once complete train system went to the neighbor countries after World War I. If neither the starting or ending point is Budapest, expect to travel for a ''long time'' often with change in Budapest. '''Intercity (IC)''' trains are the fastest, and they're up-to-date, usually well maintained and clean. They link the major cities with Budapest. Expect to pay about 550&nbsp;Ft extra fee independently from the distance for the mandatory seat reservation (not in international ICs, ECs). In some cases the extra charge can be lower. Compared to the majority of Western European ticket prices, Hungary's IC trains are among the cheapest, with an excellent record of speed and comfort. At the '''weekends''' many students use these IC trains to commute between Budapest and other cities, so an early advance booking is recommended on Friday afternoons for the trains leaving Budapest and on Sunday evenings for trains towards Budapest. Working with a notebook is generally safe, unless it's heavy overcrowded. Fast trains ('''Gyors''') are usually older train cars coupled with IC services, but you don't need a seat reservation to use them. Other train lines ('''Személy, Sebes, InterRégió, Zónázó''') usually are not that fast and use older carriages (even in the 1st class). However, quality standards are improving. During the summer, trains linking Balaton to Budapest are often overcrowded with the IC usually being sold out. Pricing depends only on the distance and on the car class. Cash desks assume 2nd class by default for non-IC trains (at least in Budapest for English speakers), so if you didn't catch your IC, consider asking 1st class, paying small extra for much more comfort. Smoking is prohibited on all trains, as well as on the station platforms. Since March 2024, '''people aged 65 and older '''and''' people under 14''' generally travel free of charge. '''People under 26''' receive a 50% discount. The 90% discount for students only applies for those living in and studying in Hungarian institution. ==== Train ticket types ==== Buy tickets and passes for all trains, long-distance buses and HÉV, and some international tickets on '''[https://jegy.mav.hu/ jegy.mav.hu]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' or the MÁV app. '''Regular tickets''' are valid from/to specific stations, but are valid once for any train within 24 hours. '''[https://www.ujtarifa.hu/en#gyik Passes]''' are valid for valid for almost all long-distance and some local services: trains (2nd class), long-distance buses, some local buses, trains, HÉV. These operators accept the passes: * the MÁV-Group: MÁV trains and VOLÁN buses * GYSEV trains * BKK (public transport within Budapest: you can also buy a Hungary or County pass from the BudapestGO app) * local bus operators in Csongrád, Érd, Esztergom * and some small bus companies: G-Busline Kft. (Budapest–Lenti), Trans-Tour 90 Kft. (Budapest–Beregsurány), Trans-Vonal Kft. (Nyíregyháza–Balsa), and Weekendbus Közlekedési Zrt. (Budapest–Csömör). If you have a pass and would like to use local services in a city outside of Budapest, check the local operators' site as your Pass might be valid for all transit, just buses or neither. If you travel on an IC train, you still have to reserve a seat alongside your pass. A '''County Pass''' is valid for 30 days within one county, costs 9450 Ft. A '''Hungary Pass''' is valid for the entire country. If you are planning to visit '''multiple regions''' or take lots of train trips, it might make sense to buy this at 18900 Ft. There is also a nationwide 24-hour pass. It's called '''''Hungary24''''' and costs {{HUF|4999}}. It is possible to use your '''[[Inter Rail|Interrail/Eurail]] pass''' in Hungary. Check whether buying tickets for each journey is cheaper. Most train stations will let you use a debit or credit card. Some stops might be served only by vending machines. A ''gépi menetjegykiadás'' is a staffed cashier desk; ''jegykiadó automata'' is a vending machine. You can buy tickets with euro. It is possible to purchase an international ticket and supplement at every Hungarian railway station which has an international cash desk. Cash desks do not accept euro bank notes of values above €50, and you will get the change in forints. ===== Fines ===== If you boarded at a station without a ticket office or vending machine, you can buy a regular ticket from the conductor. If you boarded at a station where purchasing a ticket was possible, you have to buy a ticket from the conductor and pay a 2600 Ft surcharge. If you boarded at a station within the [https://www.mavcsoport.hu/sites/default/files/upload/travel-offer/document/public/trkp_bp_jn_zona_01-1_2025-02-03_web.pdf Mandatory ticket pre-purchase zone around Budapest], you have to buy a ticket and pay a 25000 Ft fine. This fine isn't fully enforced yet, there is a grace period until 31 Aug 2025. Some lines might operate without a conductor: in this case buy a ticket before boarding. '''Bike transport''' The easiest way to check if you can transport bikes is to check the Bicycle checkmark on emma.mav.hu or jegy.mav.hu when planning a trip. You will have to buy a separate bike ticket (500 Ft) and on very popular lines you might have to reserve a bicycle space as well. '''[http://www.mav-start.hu/english/reisen/transporting_bicycles.php International bike transport]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' on the train also possible on selected trains cost €4-10 (vary), first price to [[Vienna]], the highest to [[Hamburg]] (via [[Berlin]]). List of [http://www.mav-start.hu/utazas/eticket_kioszk.php '''e-ticket acceptance point''']{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}s like a vending machine. Buy the ticket [http://jegyvasarlas.mav-start.hu/eTicketV2/V2/Bejelentkezes.jsp?Lang=EN on the Net]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and find at the station the pre-purchased ticket issuing machine to validate and print your ticket. There are '''[http://www.mav-start.hu/utazas/csomag_orzo.php luggage rooms or lockers]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (Hu: csomagmegörző) in train stations. Lockers cost (since 2010): small 400&nbsp;Ft, or bigger 600&nbsp;Ft per 24hours. More than one day cost 600&nbsp;Ft per each started day. An incomplete list of stations with Luggage rooms or/and lockers: Budapest-Déli, Kelenföld (Budapest), Budapest-Keleti, Budapest-Nyugati, Debrecen, Győr, Miskolc-Tiszai, Nyíregyháza, Siófok, [[Sopron]], [[Szolnok]], [[Szombathely]]. ==== By bus ==== Hungary’s national bus network is operated by the MÁV-Group (previously run by the '''[https://www.volanbusz.hu/en Volán Association]'''). Connections are frequent, and prices are identical to those on non-Intercity trains. Bus lines often are more complete than train lines, but the speed is quite similar. Long-distance buses are clean and safe, but often subject to delays. Buy your ticket at the station ticket desk before boarding; if you do not take your bus at a main station, purchase a ticket from the driver. In Budapest and major cities, make sure that you validate tickets even when buying from the bus driver. The small orange boxes are used for validating tickets and are seen at several points throughout the bus. It is a good idea to reserve your tickets for national holidays, Friday and Sunday evenings beforehand. Online booking is available [https://webelin.volanbusz.hu/belfold/elovetel/xelinmain?lang=en in English]. You can plan your trip with any of the trip planning services mentioned at the beginning of the chapter. '''People aged 65 and older '''and''' people under 14''' generally travel free of charge. Persons between 14 and 25 get 50% discounts. ==== By boat ==== There are several scheduled riverboat and hydrofoil lines operated by [https://mahartpassnave.hu/en MAHART PassNave Ltd.] from the capital city [[Budapest]] to towns in the Danubebend, like [[Szentendre]], [[Visegrád]] and [[Esztergom]], and also a good hydrofoil boat connection operated by the same company between [[Vienna]] and Budapest from May to September. In the capital city there are several sightseeing and night cruises operated by MAHART PassNave Ltd. and other shipping companies, like Legenda Ltd. There are some ferries on Danube and Tisza but their working hours are undependable. You can trust the ferry on Lake Balaton, though, for a modest price. === By car === [[File:Hungary road sign G-401.svg|thumb|Standard speed limits in Hungary]] Aggressive and unpredictable driving and speeds significantly higher than in northern Europe are a constant source of traffic incidents. Traffic lights are not always obeyed. Most roads in Hungary are two-lane, apart from modern motorways. Roads and motorways leading to Budapest are mostly in good shape; however, cracks, potholes and bumpy roads are common on minor roads and in major cities, though they are constantly being repaired. It is usually not difficult to travel by using a map and following road signs. Expressways are not free, but there are no other toll roads or tunnels. A vignette system is used, similar to that in neighboring Austria and Slovakia, but as of 2013 the vignette is stored electronically and checked for using gantries that read licence plate numbers. You can purchase them in intervals of 10 days (called "Weekly vignette"), 1 month, or 1 year. The vignette is very important and it is a good idea to buy it even if you don't plan to use the highway. Control is automatic with video cameras and you will get a high ticket (20,000&nbsp;Ft) automatically without any warning. If you travel by normal roads the speed limit is 90&nbsp;km/h between cities and 50&nbsp;km/h inside, which slows you to the average around 60&nbsp;km/h. Roads often have high traffic (especially main roads like #8 to the west, #6 to the south and #4 to the east). On highways the speed limit is 130&nbsp;km/h, travel is the same as in Germany, and on the inside lane it is very common to have someone speed by you. Expect the Police to use speed traps of all kinds: fixed ones on all motorways which are signed, and mobile ones from bridges, cars standing on the shoulder or behind bushes and trees. Beware that some policemen hide around speed limit signs, especially when the sign visibly useless or if it's extremely slow for the given road type. Police corruption is widespread especially around Budapest (generally 10,000&nbsp;Ft solves usual problems if you don't get arrested for it). When you cross the country from the west to the east (or vice versa), take into account that there are only a few bridges crossing the [[Danube]] outside [[Budapest]]. There are some ferries available though. Outside urban areas, it is a legal requirement to drive with headlights on, even during the day—a requirement that is becoming more common across the EU. Hungary has a policy of zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol. If you are caught driving even after only having a couple of units of alcohol you are most likely to be arrested. ==== Highways ==== [[File:M1 (Hu) Otszogletu kek tabla.svg|thumb|Motorway#1]] There is a fast growing highway network in Hungary (1,480&nbsp;km in total). Each highway starts in Budapest. * M0 - Motorway ring around Budapest. The north-east and south sections are ready. * M1 - connection to [[Győr]], [[Austria]] and [[Slovakia]] (west) * M2 - connection to [[Vác]], planned to reach the border to [[Slovakia]] by 2015 (north) * M3/M30/M35 - connection to [[Miskolc]], [[Debrecen]] and [[Nyíregyháza]] (east) * M5 - connection to [[Serbia]], via [[Kecskemét]] and [[Szeged]] (south-east) * M6/M60 - Connection to [[Dunaújváros]] and [[Pécs]](south) * M7/M70 - connection to [[Lake Balaton]], [[Croatia]] and [[Slovenia]] (south-west) * M4 - connection to [[Romania]] via [[Szolnok]] (east) * M44 - connection between the M5 at [[Kecskemét]] and the Romanian border via [[Békéscsaba]] (east) * M8/M9 - will cross the country (east-west) A single vignette is required to use all highways, except for M0 and short sections around major cities, which are free. Vignettes can be purchased online with bankcard on the official [https://ematrica.nemzetiutdij.hu/en/ web] (and several private online companies, e.g. [https://www.hungary-vignette.eu/en Hungary-vignette] ), at filling stations and at [http://www.motorway.hu/ ÁAK] (State Motorway Management Co.) offices. A 10-day vignette for a passenger car costs 2975&nbsp;Ft during summertime, the 4-day ticket for car has been cancelled. Vignettes are controlled automatically through a camera system. ===By car pool=== The Hungarian [http://oszkar.com oszkar.com social car pool network/website] will allow you to find cheap transport around the country and from (and to) many European cities (especially Vienna, but many German cities are also well "serviced"). In case you're not familiar with the idea: people who travel by car and willing to take passengers post their itinerary. You can hitch a ride by booking it on the website and then contacting the driver, whose contact information the website furnishes you with. People wishing to travel by car pool can also post and hope to be found by a prospective driver. Passengers are expected to contribute to the cost of the trip, but "fares" are typically much lower than bus/coach or rail fares (e.g. as of 2013, a trip from Vienna to Budapest may cost 2,500–6,500&nbsp;Ft). A significant downside is that the site is in Hungarian (although you might be able to navigate it with a service Google Translate) and that booking (but not searching) requires registration, which is free. Drivers as well as passengers can rate each other after trips, much like at auction sites. Drivers are typically young adults (young enough to be familiar with the Internet and old enough to own their own cars); this also means they're slightly more likely to speak a foreign language than the average Hungarian, but you still shouldn't depend on it. Some commercial "shuttle operators" use oszkar.com to offer rides too; their postings are visually distinguishable from "amateur" ones. Oszkar.com is a buyer's market: there are generally many more passenger seats available than passengers. ===By taxi=== {{seealso|Budapest#By taxi}} Inspect the change that taxi drivers give you. Cabbies commonly rip off tourists by giving them change in outdated Romanian currency, which looks similar to Hungarian currency, but is worthless and cannot be redeemed. Ride-hailing is available in Hungary and the following are the most anticipated providers: * {{go | name=Bolt | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-07-09 | content=Works in Budapest, Debrecen and Pécs. }} ==See== Hungary has several [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage sites]]. These are: [[Image:Estibp13.jpg|300px|thumb|right|Buda Castle by night]] * [[Budapest]], including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue * Old Village of [[Hollókő]] and its Surroundings * Caves of [[Miskolc#Further afield|Aggtelek National Park]] — beautiful caves with dripstones and stalagmites * Millenary Benedictine Abbey of [[Pannonhalma#Q936285|Pannonhalma]] and its Natural Environment * [[Hortobágy]] National Park — the Puszta * Early Christian Necropolis of [[Pécs]] (Sopianae) * [[Sopron#Further afield|Fertő Lake]] Cultural Landscape common place with Austria more see there * [[Tokaj]] and '''Villány''' Wine Regions and Historic Cultural Landscapes You can also check the [[National parks in Hungary]] page. Other major tourist destination is [[Lake Balaton]], with winehills, thermal spa in [[Hévíz]], '''Hajdúszoboszló''' and [[Harkány]] around. [[Sopron]] is one of the most popular place for a sightseeing in the region. There are also some amazing things to see. * '''Tiszavirágzás'''. In mid-June the Tisza produces swarms of mayflies which are likened to flowers. Once decimated by pollution, the population is rebounding. (They're famous for living only for 1–2 days.) * '''Busójárás'''. In February the people chase away bad ghosts by loud clamping on streets of '''Mohács'''. ==Do== * '''Birdwatching:''' Hungary has wooded hills, vast fish-pond systems and grasslands, the ''puszta''. Particularly good areas are the [[Kiskunság National Park]], [[Hortobágy]] National Park and the Aggtelek, Bukk and Zemplen Hills. * '''Horse riding:''' Vast areas of open countryside coupled with the long traditions of horsemanship make Hungary an ideal country for riding. Wide open plains in the south and forested hills in the north offer varied riding terrain. * '''Baths:''' Thermal waters abound in Hungary, with over 1000 thermal springs many of which have been turned into baths and spas. The most famous are the [[Budapest#Szchnyi_Spa|Szechenyi baths in Budapest]], but there are hundreds more. The cave baths at [[Miskolc-Tapolca]] and the spa at [[Northern_Hungary#Heves_County|Egerszalók]] are good examples. See also [[Budapest#Baths]], [[Nyíregyháza#Do]], and [http://www.gyogyviz.hu/ogyfi_kulso.htm a selected list] of authorized medicinal waters. * '''Football:''' 12 teams play soccer in the country's top tier, Nemzeti Bajnokság I or NB1; four of them are based in Budapest. The national team play home games at Puskás Aréna in Budapest, completed in 2019. *'''Autosport:''' Watch the '''Formula One Hungarian Grand Prix''' in the July window. It takes place at the Hungaroring circuit in Budapest. The Hungarian Grand Prix is also termed as 'Monaco without the bars/railings'. Book early because it follows the Belgium Grand Prix and people use the wise decision to book the tickets after the fourth race of the season. Hungaroring is also known for its nice scenery outside the race track and for heavy rains at unexpected times. Hungaroring also hosts the second tier racing, third tier racing and other events. * '''Cycling:''' the premier race is the [https://www.tourdehongrie.hu/en Tour de Hongrie] held over four days in May. ==Buy== ===Money=== <!-- {{exchange rate HUF}}--> {{exchange rates | currency=Hungarian forint | currencyCode=Ft | date=January 2026 | USD=325 | EUR=385 | GBP=44 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/huf-hungarian-forint XE.com]}} [[File:Forint-200-500-1000-2000-5000.jpg|right|thumb|350px|Hungarian forint banknotes ''(including the now withdrawn 200 Ft note)'']] The Hungarian currency is the '''forint''', denoted by the symbol "'''Ft'''" (ISO code: '''HUF'''). Notes come in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000 forint; coins are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 two-coloured, similar to €2) and 200 (two-coloured, similar to €1) forint. Euros are now accepted at most hotels and some of the restaurants and shops. Make sure you check the exchange rate, sometimes even well known places (like McDonald's) will exchange at unrealistic rates. Forints are to disappear in the coming years in favour of the euro, but no date has been fixed. You can use major credit cards (EuroCard, Visa) in major shops and larger restaurants, but never expect that without checking first. Small places cannot afford to handle cards. ATMs are available even in small cities, the coverage is good. In Budapest, almost all businesses and services relevant to tourists support card payments. While completing any monetary transactions, it is best to pay in forint when you can. Some restaurants and hotels charge a steep rate for exchanging euros and often due to the fluctuation in forint, cost and services stated may vary drastically. ====Money exchange==== Shopping in Hungary is extremely cheap for people from the euro zone and the US. An exception to this rule is that luxury goods are often at higher prices than would be encountered in Western Europe or the US. Exchange rates for euros and US dollars are roughly the same within central (at least in [[Budapest]] and [[Eger]]). Rates will likely be much worse in airports and large train stations, so only change what you need to reach the city centre. A good habit is to compare the buy and sell rates: if they are drastically different, you're best going somewhere else. Official exchange offices always give a receipt and normally have a large glass between client and a cashier making all steps transparent for clients. Euros are very widely accepted, in hotels, in some splurge restaurants or bars, in some shop (like all SPAR super/hypermarkets, usually at the cashdesk area is a board with the actual rate), or international cash desk of course the rates five even ten percent worse than in the banks and be prepared for the change they will get back in forint. Try using small notes (max. 50), at international cash desk can even pay also with coins and the rate is ok. Traded currencies at the two biggest Hungarian bank [https://www.kh.hu/publish/kh/hu/lakossag/arfolyamok_kondiciok.html K&H Bank]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}: AUD, CAD, CHF, CZK, DKK, EUR, GBP, JPY, NOK, PLN, SEK, USD; [https://www.otpbank.hu/portal/en/Rates/CashandFX OTP Bank]: same as K&H plus BGN, RUB and accepted Euro or Amex travellers cheques (commission). Smaller banks like [https://www.raiffeisen.hu/en/web/english/home Raiffeisen Bank]{{Dead link|date=December 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (for CZK), [http://www.oberbank.hu/OBK_webp/OBK/oberbank_hu/index.jsp Oberbank]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (for CHF) or [http://www.sberbank.hu/en/private.html Sberbank]{{Dead link|date=March 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (for RUB) giving better rates, but not change so many currencies (need to check as it is variable). For your remaining forints, buying euros, US dollars and Swiss francs is always available, but others only when in stock. More unusual currencies, such as Israeli shekels, Hong Kong dollars, or Ukrainian hryvnia, can only be exchanged at money changers. If you arrive in Hungary at weekends, holidays or evening banks are closed only ATMs or money changer shops or some hotels (mostly the biggers). ATMs and banks can be found in hypermarkets. If you arrive at Budapest Ferihegy Airport late at night or on state holidays changing money is possible as there are five [http://www.bud.hu/english/passengers/shopping_and_gastronomy/services/interchange-8182.html interchange]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} money changer offices. Opening times vary: from morning to around midnight, and one is open 24 hours a day. There is an ATM in the arrival hall at Budapest Ferihegy, and the rates for using ATMs with a card are often better than the bureau de change. Also Interchange has booths at Déli (one), Keleti (three), Nyugati (one) Railway stations. These are open daily from 07:00 or earlier to 20:50-23:30. Locations and opening time [https://interchange.eu/branch/location/hungary/ here]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. In the city centre of Budapest at #2 Vörösmarty square ([[File:BKV m 1 jms.svg|15px]]:Vörösmarty tér) branch is open 24 hours a day. There are many ATMs in Budapest which will accept European and North American debit or credit cards. Be aware that "Euronet" ATMs will typically charge 2000–2500 HUF in addition to any charges your own bank may apply, whereas ATMs operated by banks (e.g. OTP Bank, Raiffeisenbank) don't add extra charges. Visitors report that unofficial money changers operating near an official money changing booth offer unfavourable rates and recommend using the official exchange offices. Such exchangers are illegal and there is the possibility that you will receive something other than Hungarian currency or nothing at all. ===Tipping=== [[Tipping|Tips]] (''borravaló'') are given in Hungary for some services: in restaurants, in bars, to taxi drivers, to hairdressers, and often to people that fix things around the house, like plumbers and electricians. Although not legally required, social norms encourage that tips are given. 10% is usually enough. Check your receipt before you pay, because some bars and restaurants charge a 10% service fee (szervizdíj), in this case tipping is not expected. ===Shopping=== Apart from classic tourist souvenirs such as postcards and trinkets, here are some things unique to Hungary or just hard to find elsewhere. ==== Hungarian foods ==== [[File:Almog 9 Budamarket.jpg|thumb|Paprika and garlic products for sale]] * '''Duck and goose liver''' * '''Salamis''' - products of [http://herz.hu/ Hertz], Picks are the best, try Winter salami (Hu: Téliszalámi) * '''Sweets''' Chocolates with fruit Brandy, Szamos Marzipan dessert, Praline with Truffle, szaloncukor, literally: "parlour candy", is a popular sweet at Christmas. * '''Cold-smoked sausages''' - Mangalica and grey beef specials * '''Herbal Teas''' * '''Truffle Products''' - Honeys, Jams * '''Spices''': Paprika and Hungarian Saffron * '''Gundel set of cheese''': aged in Gundel wines or with walnut pieces or seasonings. Most easily found in 350 g sets of three kinds in duty-free of Ferihegy Airport in [[Budapest]] (at least in Terminal 2), but is likely available in Gundel 1894 Food & Wine Cellar (see [[Budapest/Pest#Gundel|Pest#Eat]]). Keep in mind that shelf life for this cheese is only 2 months. ====Hungarian beverages ==== * '''Champagnes''' * '''Wines''': the vineries of Badacsony, Tokaj, Villány have the best products, but when purchasing wine beyond the right kind and vintage is also important the wine rack. The wrought iron with wine leaves is very showy, but if you are traveling by plane difficult to transport, so maybe a wood is more practical and you can buy a wide range of it. Other good names are: Somlói Juhfark, Egri Bikavér (see Liquor), Kadarka, red wine from Villány area etc. * '''Pálinka''': very famous and strong brandy made from fruits. * '''Unicum''': a herbal digestif liqueur. ==== Others ==== [[File:Ceramic house, palinka flasks in Gyenesdiás, 2016 Hungary.jpg|thumb|Porcelain palinka bottles]] * '''Black pottery''' - part of the Transdanubian folk art * '''Porcelain''' - look for high quality handmade Herend and Zsolnay products, usually sell them in set, simple candle holders are much cheaper and also popular * Herend '''majolica''' at more affordable prices than the classic Herend. * '''Hungarian Cuisine book''' (English, German, French, Spanish, Italian) * 'matyó' patterned wooden spoons, ceramic of Sárospatak spoon holder * '''Embroideries''' such as patterned of Kalocsa or Matyó. * '''Blueprinted textiles''' mostly linen or cotton materials * '''Diamonds''' in handmade white gold, platinum inlaid jewellery, try your luck at [[Szentendre]] the Europe’s largest diamond & jewellery centre * '''Handicrafts and decorative arts''' works decorated with traditional, Hungarian folk motifs (letter-paper envelope sets, greeting cards, handkerchiefs, napkins, tablecloths, pillows, towels) * The '''Rubik's cube''' originated in Hungary and was invented in 1974 by Erno Rubik and is one example of its longstanding gaming tradition. ==Eat== Main courses in menu are normally 3000–5000&nbsp;Ft in touristy places in Budapest, 2000–3000&nbsp;Ft outside it, or in towns like [[Eger]] and [[Szentendre]]. A two-course lunch with a soft drink in [[Budapest]] typically costs 3000–10000&nbsp;Ft per person, and half or third of that outside [[Budapest]]. A Chinese fast food menu is around 1500&nbsp;Ft. (updated Jan 2023) In restaurants, a service charge is frequently included into bill, 10% or even 12%, but this has to be clearly pointed out on the menu. If it's not mentioned, the place has no right to include a service charge in the bill. Even if there's no service charge, unless the service was preposterous most Hungarians tend to leave a tip of 10% minimum. Unlike in most western countries, tip is usually not left on the table but rather the amount is specified to the waiting staff when you pay. There were some places, mainly in the centre of Pest, that try to rip off drunk tourists at night by charging ridiculously high prices for drinks. Most of these places are closed now, but it's still a good idea to always check the prices before ordering. Common in major cities and next to the highways are branches of major international chains such as [http://kfc.hu/en/ KFC], [http://www.mcdonalds.hu/ McDonald's], [http://www.burgerking.hu/ettermek/ Burger King]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://www.subwayhungary.com/hu/page_restaurant_locator.html Subway]{{Dead link|date=August 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://www.pizzahut.hu/etterem_kereso/ Pizza Hut]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}and [http://www.fridays.hu/ TGI Friday's]{{Dead link|date=August 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} last two just in Budapest. ===Cuisine=== [[Image:Szentendre Goulash.JPG|thumb|A fancy serving of ''gulyás'' soup]] [[File:2009-09-gulasch-pörkölt-paprikas-1.jpg|thumb|'''Pörkölt''' (is a meat stew which originates from Hungary) and '''Nokedli''' (a pasta, used as side dish)]] Hungarians are quite proud of their cuisine (''Magyar konyha''), and most of the time not without reason. Food is usually spicy, but not hot by general standards, and it's tasty rather than healthy: many dishes are prepared with lard or deep-fried. The national spice is '''paprika''', made from ground sweet bell peppers. * {{eat | name=Goulash | alt=pörkölt | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q205762 | lastedit=2023-12-03 | content=The national dish is '''goulash''' but Hungarians call the thick paprika-laden stew known as goulash elsewhere by the term ''pörkölt'' and reserve the term ''gulyás'' for a lighter paprika-flavoured soup. }} Meat is popular, especially pork (sertés), beef (marha) and venison (őz). Less common are lamb and mutton. Chicken (csirke) and turkey (pulyka) are common, and you will also find game birds excellent in smarter restaurants and country areas: pheasant (fácán), partridge (fogoly) and duck (kacsa). Goose is also quite popular in Hungary. While tourists gorge on '''goose liver''' (''libamáj''), still cheap by Western standards, probably the most common dish is ''sült libacomb'', '''roast goose leg'''. The best fish in Hungary are river fish: carp (ponty), zander (fogas/süllő) and catfish (harcsa), though many restaurants will serve fish from far away. Another typical Hungarian fish meal is roasted hake (sült hekk). Less well known in the rest of the world are '''csirke paprikás''', chicken stew in paprika sauce, and '''halászlé''', paprika fish soup often made from carp. Stuffed (''töltött'') vegetables of all kinds are also popular, and Hungarian pancakes ('''palacsinta'''), both savoury and sweet, are a treat. Common snacks include '''kolbász''', a Hungarianised version of the Polish ''kielbasa'' sausage, and '''lángos''', deep-fried dough with a variety of toppings (mostly sour cream, cheese, or garlic). A typical Hungarian meal will involve soup, often like a consommé (erőleves), meat with potatoes (burgonya) and a side salad, and a dessert such as pancakes (palacsinta). A meal is almost always, even at breakfast, accompanied by Hungarian '''pickles''' called ''savanyúság'', literally "sourness". These are often dubbed ''saláta'' on menus, so order a ''vitamin saláta'' if you want fresh vegetables. Starch is most often served as potatoes, rice or dumplings (''galuska'' or ''nokedli''). The primary Hungarian contribution in this field is an unusual type of small couscous-like pasta called ''tarhonya''. It is worth visiting a "cukrászda" if you are in Hungary. These are very popular with delicious cakes and coffee. Try the traditional krémes (with vanilla cream), eszterházy (lots of nuts) or somlói galuska. Another favourite is '''lángos''', which is deep-fried bread served served with various fillings. The most common is plain, with salt, garlic (fokhagyma) and soured cream (tejföl). If you do come across a lángos stand, there are usually a large number of options from pizza lángos, or eggs with mayonnaise or Nutella and bananas. ===Vegetarian food=== Vegetarians and vegans will have about as much ease eating out as in any other western country. [[Budapest]] is not a problem, as there is a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, but in an ordinary Hungarian restaurant the non-meat mains on the menu are pretty much limited to ''rántott sajt'' (fried cheese) and ''gombafejek rántva'' (fried mushrooms), but some places will avoid meat for your order if asked. Italian food is popular, so as long as you don't mind a pasta heavy diet as a vegetarian you will find a wider choice. For self-catering, the selection of fruits and vegetables from supermarkets or local shops and market is quite good, especially in summer. There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, and a lot of health food stores that offer all sorts of vegetarian/vegan products, including cosmetics. ==Drink== ===Wine=== [[Image:Wine regions Hungary.svg|right|thumb|350px|Hungary has several famous vine regions, most known are No.5 '''Badacsony''', No.20 [[Eger]], No.13 [[Szekszárd]], No.22 [[Tokaj]], No.15 '''Villány'''. Prices are reasonable.]] [[Image:Villany, wine.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Hills, grape plantations and wine cellars near '''Villány''', southern Hungary.]] <!-- NOTE TO EDITORS: This is a short summary for "Egri Bikavér", which should be described fully in [[Eger#Drink]]. Please update information there as a primary description; add only most essential details here. --> * '''Egri Bikavér''' (Bull's Blood of Eger) (1000&nbsp;Ft for a good one) is a strong red Hungarian wine which supposedly saved a clever Hungarian girl from her fate with a Turkish sultan. During the time of the Turkish occupation, it is said a young girl was summoned to become a member of the local sultan's harem. Not wanting this fate for his daughter, her father gave her a bottle of Egri Bikavér to take to the sultan. He told her to tell the ruler it was bull's blood, and would make him invincible. The sultan, being Muslim, was unaccustomed to alcohol, and proceeded to pass out, leaving the daughter unharmed. There is another story connected to why Bull's Blood is called so, and it also comes from the Turkish era. According to that one, the defenders of the different castles used to drink this red wine. When they saw the color on the mouths of the Hungarians, they thought that it must have been from a bull, thus the name. * '''Tokaj''' is known for its sweet dessert wines (''Tokaji aszú''), (2000–6000&nbsp;Ft) which acquire their distinctive taste from grapes infected by the "noble rot" ''Botrytis cinerea''. The favorite tipple of aristocracy, past fans of Tokaji include Louis XIV (who called Tokaj as "''The king of the wines, the wine of the kings''"), Beethoven, Napoleon III and Peter the Great &mdash; which is still reflected in the steep pricing of the best varieties. Almost uniquely among white wines, Tokaj keeps well for a long time. Hungarian wine, including champagne ("pezsgő"), is quite likely to be sweet ("Édes" or "félédes"). If dry wine is your preference, look for the word "Száraz" on the label. When buying bottled wine, don't bother with types cheaper than 600–700&nbsp;Ft, as they are usually very low quality (maybe not even produced from grapes). In wine cellars high quality may be available at surprisingly low prices. ===Liquor=== In Hungarian, '''pálinka''' denotes strong brandy-like liquor distilled from fruit. ''Pálinka'' is a very social drink: just as the English drink tea, the Hungarians, especially in rural areas, will offer ''pálinka'' to guests upon arrival. The best-known varieties are ''barackpálinka'', made from apricots, ''körtepálinka'' from pears, and ''szilvapálinka'' made from plums. Factory-made ''pálinka'' is widely available, but keep an eye out for homemade ''házipálinka''. Pálinkas usually contain around or above 50% of alcohol, often more for the homemade ones. Pálinka bottles marked ''mézes'' will be heavily sweetened with honey. (3000&nbsp;Ft for something good) '''Unicum''' is a strong ''digestif'' made from a secret mix of over 40 herbs. It comes in striking black bottles emblazoned with a red and white cross, and has a very strong and unusual taste. ''Unicum Next'' has a lighter, citrusy flavor, and is rather more palatable. Definitely worth trying, the spherical bottle (affectionately called "the Holy Hand Grenade") itself may also be used for decoration, and keeps very well for a long time. It is available in every bar in Hungary but it is rare to see someone drinking it. ===Beer=== Hungarian beer is quite average compared to other Central European countries like Germany and the Czech Republic as it has long been a wine culture. The most common beers are Dreher, Szalon, Borsodi, Soproni and Arany Ászok, available in the styles ''világos'' (lager) and ''barna'' (brown). All of Hungarian breweries are owned and managed by international brands such as: Dreher Sörgyár (Budapest); Heineken Hungaria (Sopron and Martfű); Heineken; Borsodi Sörgyár (Bőcs); Pécsi Sörfőzde (Pécs); Ottakinger. They cost 200–300&nbsp;Ft at a store and 400–600&nbsp;Ft at a bar. Some expensive club can charge up to 900 in Budapest. Imported beers like Pilsner Urquell, Staropramen and Budweiser-Budvar (the original Czech variety) are widely available in bars and markets for not much more than the ubiquitous Hungarian brands. When offering a toast with beer, be warned that most Hungarians will politely refuse. This is due to an old tradition due to remembering soldiers executed by the Habsburgs of Austria in the 1848 revolution, whereby it was decreed no Hungarian would toast with beer for 150 years. It's been so long, however, that most Hungarians no longer know the origins of this tradition or that they've been free to make toasts over beer for the past ten years. ===Coffee=== Cafe culture is widespread in Hungary, although it may never recover the romance of its turn-of-the-century intellectual heyday. Unless asked, it's a good idea to specify what kind of coffee you prefer. The word ''kávé'' means the strong, espresso-like coffee, although American-style coffee, known as ''hosszú kávé'' in Hungarian, usually translated as "long coffee", is also available at most places. ===Tea=== Tea houses are becoming popular in cities, especially among the young. There is a growing number of tea houses, mainly in [[Budapest]] and some bigger cities where people can buy several types of loose tea. The best teas are herbal and fruit varieties. In restaurants and cafes, lemon juice is frequently served in a small bottle. However, in traditional restaurants or cafes good teas are hard to find as coffee are preferred. ==Sleep== ===Hostels=== Very good rated hostels cost about €9–22 per night. The lower prices you usually get during week-days and in low season. (updated July 2022) ===Farmhouses=== '''Village Tourism''' is popular and very well developed in Hungary, and can be a remarkable experience. Start your research with ''1Hungary'' [http://www.1hungary.com/info/hungary/], ''National Federation of Rural and Agrotourism'' [http://www.fatosz.hu/11-5115.html]{{Dead link|date=October 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and ''Centre of Rural Tourism'' [http://www.falutur.hu/]. Near Budapest it is also possible to find rural houses to rent, for instance the ''Wild Grape Guesthouse'' [http://www.travelfever.org/]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, what makes a good combination to explore the capital and a National Park while staying at the same accommodation. ===Camping=== There are campgrounds available. See the city guides, including the [[Budapest]] guide. ==Learn== Hungary is a country known for its rich academic tradition and cultural diversity, where education is highly valued. It boasts 13 Nobel laureates, numerous inventors, artists, and scientists, and is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. Despite facing many historical challenges and transformations, Hungarians strongly believe in the power of knowledge to preserve their identity and sovereignty. This unwavering commitment to education and innovation has made Hungary a member of the European Union and a leader in several fields of science and technology. Hungarian universities are open to all foreign students. Many European exchange students come through the EU's Erasmus program. There are quite a lot students from Asia and the Middle East as well, particularly because despite the high standard of education, fees are still considerably lower than in the more developed Western European countries. Those interested should visit Study in Hungary [http://www.studyhungary.hu/] or University of Debrecen [http://www.ud-mhsc.org/] websites. [http://studyuniversity.info/map/direct/73 Map of Hungarian universities and colleges]{{Dead link|date=April 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. ==Work== It could be very difficult for an individual to seek legal employment in Hungary because of the complexity, cost and time involved. Most foreign workers in Hungary have received their visas and other necessary documents through the company they are employed by. It is hoped, however, that since the joining of Hungary to the EU a reduction will follow in the amount of red tape involved. Citizens of Antigua and Barbuda are permitted to work in Hungary without the need to obtain a visa for the period of their 90 day visa-free stay. However, this ability to work visa-free does not necessarily extend to other Schengen countries. Many students, usually on a gap year, work as second language teachers at one of Budapest's many language schools. A qualification is required (ESL/TEFL/TESOL) and experience is preferred. One option is to teach through the Central European Teaching Program. For a placement fee they will take care of paperwork and set you up in a school in Hungary teaching English on a local salary. Contracts are for one semester or a whole school year. Qualified ESL/EFL teachers can find employment in Hungary at private language schools which offer better rates of pay and without having to pay a placement fee. See also [[Budapest#Work|Work section in Budapest article]]. ==Stay safe== [[File:Budapest bei Nacht Pestseite.jpg|thumb|Budapest by night]] Hungary in general is a very safe country. However, petty crime in particular remains a concern, just like in any other country. Watch your bags and pockets on public transport. There is a danger of [[pickpockets]]. Passports, cash and credit cards are common targets of thieves. Keep items that you do not store in your hotel safe or residence in a safe place, but be aware that pockets, purses and backpacks are especially vulnerable, even if closed. There are also reported cases of people who got their baggage stolen while sleeping on the train. Generally, Hungary is rather quiet during the night compared to other European countries, and crime to tourists is limited to pickpocketing, and [[common scams|cheating on prices and bills and taxi fares]]. Everyone is required to carry their passport and ID card. Not doing so lead to trouble with the police. The police generally accept a colour copy of your passport. The police force is professional and well trained, but most hardly speak any English. See the Budapest travel guide for more specific and valuable information about common street scams and tourist traps in Hungary. Despite the government's controversial rhetoric regarding immigration, most Hungarians are not racist or xenophobic, and Budapest does have a small yet vibrant immigrant community. With that said, you might want to avoid living in rural areas if you are not white. === Driving conditions === The majority of Hungarians drive dangerously and had 739 deaths on the roads in 2010. This is largely due to careless driving habits. Many drivers do not observe the speed limits and you should be extra careful on two-way roads where local drivers pass each other frequently and allow for less space than you may be used to. Car seats are required for infants. Children under age 12 may not sit in the front seat. Seat belts are mandatory for everyone in the car. You may not turn right on a red light. The police issues tickets for traffic violations and issue on the spot fines. In practice the laws are widely ignored. Also, Hungarian laws have '''zero tolerance''' to drink and drive, and the penalty is a severe fine. It means no alcoholic beverage is allowed to be consumed if driving, '''no blood alcohol of any level is acceptable.''' Failure to pay fines may result in your passport getting confiscated, or even a jail term until or unless you pay the fine. More importantly, the police stops vehicles regularly for document checks. You shouldn't worry when you are stopped because by law, everyone needs to have their identification papers checked. Hungary has some of the harshest penalties for those involved in a car accident. Involvement in a car accident results in a fine, and maybe a prison sentence from 1 year to 5 years (depending on the aggravating circumstances). ==Stay healthy== Food and water is generally safe, even in remote villages. It is safe to drink '''[[tap water]]''' anywhere, even in remote areas, however, due to the cleaning process the taste of the water can be really unpleasant. Best idea is to try before changing to the bottled water. Bottled waters has a large selection, both the fizzy (blue bottle cap) and still (red/pink bottle cap) water and it is cheap (starts from less than 100&nbsp;Ft for 1.5 litre). The only notable exception of the drinking water are trains where the tap water is not drinkable and other places where tap water is labeled as such. It is widely available and good practice to have with you a bottle during hot summer. Private health care providers are high quality, but limited in scope once outside Budapest. Dentistry is cheaper here than in Western Europe (8000–10,000&nbsp;Ft for an appointment and x-ray), and physiotherapy also (3000&nbsp;Ft for a half-hour treatment), but check the price with the provider before you confirm the appointment. Outside Budapest you will likely have to speak basic Hungarian to communicate your needs as few doctors will have any English or German skills. Public health care is free for qualifying (insured) people, and is of adequate quality in urban areas. The country has joined the EU, so basic coverage is present for EU citizens, but check before entering the country how far are you insured and what you have to pay for. Do not expect at this time that the local doctor will know the EU rules, prepare to provide info. The European Health Insurance Card is required from EU citizens applying for free treatment under this regulation. Pharmacies are everywhere, you may expect high prices, but good pharmaceutical coverage. Sadly the situation clearly has worsened a lot since early 2010, as many pharmacies can not maintain an adequate reserve of medicines. Another problem might be communicating with the pharmacist as most of them speak only Hungarian. Quite unexpectedly some rusty Latin might come handy. Due to reduced trade between Hungary and andania (as of Dec 2006), some of familiar medications are unavailable—so be prepared to find a substitute in advance. ==Respect== === Names === Uniquely in Europe, Hungary uses the '''Eastern name order''', i.e. the family name precedes the given name. For example, someone named ''Kovács István'' has the family name ''Kovács'' ("Smith") and the given name ''István'' ("Stephen"). However, most Hungarians change their name order when talking or writing in a foreign language, like ''István Kovács''. Foreign names are also kept in the original order (like ''John Travolta''; but for an originally Eastern name, the Eastern order is retained, like for ''Abe Shinzo''). In official documents (and sometimes elsewhere), your name might get changed to the Eastern order. Prepare for misunderstandings, but when in doubt, just ask. Hungarians generally avoid to address people by name whom they do not know well. The general norm is ''Uram'' (Sir) for males or ''Hölgyem/Asszonyom'' (Madam) for females. The title is probably used more often, if known (e.g. ''Igazgató Úr'', "Mr. Director"; or ''Doktor Úr'', "Doctor"). If having to use the surname, it is like ''Kovács úr'' ("Mr. Smith"). Given names are only used between acquintances, or with those who have offered this to you. Don't use them otherwise; it might be considered rude. === General etiquette === Hungarians are generally straightforward communicators. They are quite comfortable with expressing their innermost thoughts and feelings openly, and you can expect them to tell you exactly what they think. Although their directness may come across as blunt, assertive, or even rude to some, it's important to understand that they are not trying to offend or hurt anyone's feelings. They simply believe in being truthful and straightforward in their interactions with others. Hungarians believe in strong familial values and often live with extended family members who provide both financial and emotional support. Therefore, it is important to '''show respect for the elderly'''. Don't use first names (''keresztnév'') unless you've been told to, and compose yourself in a mature fashion around someone older than you. On public transportation, it is obligatory to offer your seat to older people. Talking loudly is generally considered rude. You will notice how most Hungarians tend to keep their voices down in public places. When entering a home, shoes should generally be taken off. === Sensitive issues === * The 1956 Revolution continues to be a sensitive subject with many of the Hungarians, and anti-Russian sentiment used to be high due to the violent suppression of the uprising by the Soviet army. This, however, seems to have faded away, and surprisingly, conservative and right-wing people tend to have a more positive attitude towards Russia. Approval rates of financial support for Ukraine during the Russian invasion are comparatively low, with the government even accused of being pro-Russian – just don't mention the topic if possible, as it is quite controversial. * You are well advised not to discuss the Treaty of Trianon (1920) at all — many Hungarians can take it surprisingly sensitively, even today. * Open display of the Communist red star and hammer and sickle symbol, the Nazi swastika and SS symbols, and the Hungarian fascist Arrow Cross, is prohibited by law. Make sure your clothing does not have these symbols on it, even if it's just a joke. You can be fined for it. * Members of the Roma community may find "Gypsy", or the traditional Hungarian label ''cigány'' (pronounced ''tzigan'') to be offensive; some, however, may even refer to themselves as such. There are also some niche cases; e.g. when used in connection with music, ''cigány'' is used (even officially; e.g. ''Muzsikus cigányok parkja'', "Park of Gypsy Musicians"). As a foreigner, always use ''roma'' at first. * As a rural tradition, Hungarians affectionately refer to themselves as "dancing with tears in our eyes" ("sírva vígad a magyar"), as in a bittersweet resignation to the perceived bad luck in their long history. Avoid mocking Hungarian history and Hungarian patriotism. ==== Political issues ==== As discussed under [[#Politics]], the country used to be run by a right-wing populist party for 16 years, provoking strong emotions from supporters and dissidents. A rule of thumb is that the countryside (this includes non-capital cities) and older voters tend to support the old governing party, while Budapest and younger people tend to oppose it; however, in 2026 surprisingly many small villages were won by the then-opposition, so this should not be taken too literally. As usual while in a foreign country, don't "come out" until you know the others are open to your opinion. It is important to understand that the popularity of Fidesz (which is now steeply declining anyway) does ''not'' mean that Hungarians would be racist, xenophobic, or Russophile in general. In spite of corruption and democratic backsliding, the old government used to enjoy genuine support from a significant part of the population, as they led the country out of the economic crisis of the late 2000s and have done much for the agricultural sector. Residents of small villages often feel that the party is the only one who listens to them, as the old left-oriented opposition has neglected building out networks reaching there. Others vote out of fear induced by state-sponsored media (especially in 2022, when propaganda accused opposition parties for warmongering with Russia). Finally, a complicated election system has turned the party's roughly 50% support into two-thirds of seats in the legislature—in fact, this is why the new government ''also'' has a supermajority now. The point is that as a foreigner, you probably don't understand the entirety of the situation; try not to speak as if you did. Saying that Fidesz supporters are in general "brainwashed" or "xenophobic" oversimplifies things, and branding the entire nation as such will probably be taken as outright offensive even by most other Hungarians. ==== National issues ==== Given Hungary's history of enduring turbulent events, many Hungarians also exhibit sensitivity towards various historical occurrences. You should avoid discussing or bringing up the following topics as they can quickly unsettle people: * '''Hungarian Revolution of 1956''' — the Soviets arrested and killed thousands of Hungarians for revolting against the Hungarian People's Republic, leading to the exodus of nearly a quarter of a million Hungarians. * Anything regarding the '''Hungarian People's Republic''' — thousands of Hungarians were arrested, imprisoned, tortured, exiled, and mistreated by the pro-Soviet communist government. However, some elderly people may have more positive thoughts about the later, comparatively relaxed period; this phenomenon is also referred to as "Kádár nostalgia", referring to the leader installed directly after the revolution. After a peaceful transition, the moderate left-wing successor of the former Communist party used to be one of the major parties until 2010. * '''Hungary's relationship with [[Russia]]''' — although relations have improved since the early 1990s, there is some antipathy and distrust towards Russia in some circles. ===Uncommon customs=== * It's an old tradition that Hungarians do not clink beer glasses or beer bottles. This is due to the legend that Austrians celebrated the execution of the 13 Hungarian Martyrs in 1849 by clinking their beer glasses, so Hungarians vowed not to clink with beer for 150 years. Obviously this time period has expired, but old habits die hard although less so by younger generations. ==Connect== * Broadband Internet access is now widespread in Hungary. It's quite usual to find free Internet access (Wi-Fi) in shopping centers; in Budapest, most cafes and pubs. You'll have Wi-Fi access even in small towns. Look for the "Wi-Fi" signs, you may have to ask for the access password, however, if you consume, it will be freely given. There are 4G coverage in most of the country while 5G is being deployed (July 2024). ==Go next== The land border can be crossed to [[Austria]], [[Slovenia]], [[Croatia]], [[Serbia]], [[Romania]], [[Ukraine]] and [[Slovakia]]. {{geo|47.2|19.2|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|Central Europe}} {{outlinecountry}} l9x6lrhm9rcuiatpc485jz5lfspsszw 5288846 5288844 2026-06-06T13:17:42Z ~2026-33463-73 2418995 5288846 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Budaors_banner.jpg|caption=Budaörs, in the hilly Buda suburbs}} '''Hungary''' ([[Hungarian phrasebook|Hungarian]]: ''Magyarország'') is a small landlocked country in Europe, at the western boundary of the Eurasian Steppe. Its capital city, [[Budapest]], boasts [[Habsburg Monarchy|Habsburg]] architecture, and ornate Turkish bathhouses remnant of its [[Ottoman Empire|Ottoman]] past, while its villages preserve strong folk traditions. Geographically straddling the Carpathian Mountains and the Peri-Carpathian Steppe, Hungary offers a diverse range of landscapes—from relatively low mountain ranges and thermal hot springs, to the Great Plain in the east, along with a variety of lakes and rivers. The vast [[Lake Balaton]] is a key destination for Hungary’s warm summers. ==Regions== {{Regionlist |regionmap=Hungary static map.png|regionmapsize=450px| region1name=[[Central Hungary]] | region1color={{StdColor|T1}} | region1items= [[Budapest]] | region1description= The traveller's main entry point. The capital, [[Budapest]], is situated here. | region2name=[[Lake Balaton]] | region2color={{StdColor|T6}} | region2items= [[Siófok]] | region2description=Ten thousands of visitors a year head to [[Siófok]], the unofficial summer capital of Lake Balaton. | region3name=[[Western Transdanubia]] | region3color={{StdColor|T7}} | region3items= [[Szombathely]], [[Győr]] | region3description=Cities with historic downtowns and beautiful castles near the Austrian border. | region4name=[[Northern Hungary]] | region4color={{StdColor|T2}} | region4items= [[Miskolc]], [[Eger]] | region4description=Great historic towns, wine regions and (cave) baths are to be seen here. | region5name=[[Northern Great Plain]] | region5color={{StdColor|T3}} | region5items= [[Debrecen]], [[Szolnok]] | region5description= | region6name=[[Southern Great Plain]] | region6color={{StdColor|T5}} | region6items= [[Szeged]] | region6description= | region7name=[[Central Transdanubia]] | region7color={{StdColor|T8}} | region7items= | region7description= | region8name=[[Southern Transdanubia]] | region8color={{StdColor|T9}} | region8items= | region8description= }} ==Cities== <!-- DO NOT MAKE CHANGES BEFORE DISCUSSION ON TALK PAGE --> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Budapest]]|wikidata=Q1781}} — with green filled parks, interesting museums, and a pulsating nightlife, Budapest is one of Europe's most delightful and enjoyable cities * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Debrecen]]|wikidata=Q79880}} — the second-largest city in the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Győr]]|wikidata=Q134494}} — there are many cafés, restaurants, boutiques, and nightclubs in its lovely baroque city center * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kecskemét]]|wikidata=Q171357}} — a town famous for its vibrant music scene, plum brandy, and Art Nouveau architecture * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Miskolc]]|wikidata=Q102397}} — with the unique cave bath in [[Miskolc-Tapolca]], the third-largest city in the country, located near the Bükk hills * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nyíregyháza]]|wikidata=Q171223}} — a medium-sized city with a busy water resort, museum village, and annual autumn festival * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pécs]]|wikidata=Q45779}} — a pleasant cultural centre and university town * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Szeged]]|wikidata=Q81581}} — the sunniest city in Hungary * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Székesfehérvár]]|wikidata=Q130212}} — former royal seat, famous for its baroque architecture and museums ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Balaton]]|wikidata=Q6383}} &mdash; the major lake of Hungary and the biggest lake in [[Central Europe]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Hortobágy|Hortobágy National Park]]|wikidata=Q61757}} &mdash; Hungary's largest protected area and the largest semi-natural grassland in Europe ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationHungary.png}} {{seealso|Austro-Hungarian Empire}} [[File:Kurultáj - Vágta, 2014.08.09 (3).JPG|250px|thumb|Horsemen in Kurultaj, an annual reenactment festival held in [[Bugac]] on the [[Great Hungarian Plain|Great Plain]]]] Hungary is one of the 15 most popular tourist destinations in the world, with a [[Budapest|capital]] regarded as [http://whc.unesco.org/archive/advisory_body_evaluation/400bis.pdf one of the most beautiful in the world]. Despite its relatively small size, Hungary is home to numerous World Heritage Sites, UNESCO Biosphere reserves, the second largest thermal lake in the world (Lake Hévíz), the largest lake in Central Europe ([[Lake Balaton]]), and the largest natural grassland in Europe ([[Hortobágy]]). In terms of buildings, Hungary is home to the largest synagogue in Europe (the Great Synagogue of Budapest), the largest medicinal bath in Europe (Széchenyi Medicinal Bath), the third largest church in Europe (Esztergom Basilica), the second largest territorial abbey in the world (Pannonhalma Archabbey), the second largest Baroque castle in the world (Gödöllő), and the largest Early Christian Necropolis outside Italy (Pécs). You can expect to find safe food and water, good safety and a generally stable political climate. Hungary has been ethnically diverse since its inception, and while today over 90% of the population are ethnically Hungarian, pockets of ethnic and cultural Slovaks, Romanians, Germans, [[Roma culture in Europe|Romani/Sinti people]] (Gypsies), and others dot the country. Due to the border changes of Hungary after World War I, over 2 million ethnic and cultural Hungarians live in bordering countries, as well. The Hungarians, otherwise known as Magyars, are the descendants of several tribes from Central Asia, who were believed to be fierce, nomadic horsemen and came to Central Europe in the 9th century. '''Roman Catholicism''' is the traditional religion of the Hungarian people (except in the east, where many are '''Calvinists'''), but modern Hungary is largely a secular society, and less than 20% of Hungarians attend church regularly. ===History=== The region of present-day Hungary was inhabited by various peoples, including [[Celts]], [[Roman Empire|Romans]], Huns, Goths, Avars, and Slavs. The Magyars, a Finno-Ugric nomadic tribe led by Árpád, migrated into the Carpathian Basin. This is considered the foundation of the Hungarian nation. Hungary became a powerful European kingdom, as part of the Latin Christian world. It fought against [[Mongol Empire|Mongol invasions]] and later against the [[Ottoman Empire]]. Its defeat at the hands of the Ottomans in 1526 led to a dynastic crisis until the 1848 revolution. From the end of [[World War I]], Hungary lost territory and population, creating deep national trauma. It was allied with Nazi Germany during most of [[World War II in Europe|World War II]], brutally occupied by the Soviets in 1945 and taken over by communists shortly thereafter. It became a scene of an uprising against Soviet rule in 1956 led by Imre Nagy, but it was crushed. It transitioned to a democracy in 1989. It joined NATO in 1999 and the EU in 2004. Between 2010 and 2026, Hungary was ruled by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who weakened the country's ties to NATO and the EU and its democracy. ===Politics=== Since the inauguration of the new government in 2026, the governing party is called '''Tisza''' (''TEE-sah''; portmanteau for ''Party of Respect and Freedom'' in Hungarian, but also alludes to the name of the Tisza River). It commands a supermajority in the new parliament and wows to reverse the direction of the previous government (this includes the possible forced removal of some public officials appointed previously by them). But as so little time has passed since the election, it is yet to tell what exactly is going to happen with the country. Hence, what can be told is mostly about the previous 16-year era, throughout which the governing party was '''Fidesz''' (pronounced ''FEE-dess'')—it still remains as the second-largest bloc. Coming to power as moderate right-wing in 2010, it started to radicalise in around 2015 and is now a textbook example of a right-wing populist party. Having maintained a supermajority almost continuously, they have shaped the country's political landscape like no other force since the end of Communism: they enacted an entirely rewritten constitution in 2012 and have filled nominally neutral institutions (especially state media) with party-loyal functionaries. Hungary is the most corrupt country in the EU, according to the ''Corruption Perception Index'', with EU-funded projects regularly landing at private businesses close to leaders (even family members). There is also speculation about the previous government's possible Russian ties, as they have made large-scale contracts with Russian agencies in the past, most notably that on the expansion of the country's only nuclear power plant. Their stance on the Russo-Ukrainian War is unclear, but after an increase in harsh rhetoric, the party now routinely uses the Ukrainian government as a scapegoat (e.g., by labelling opposing figures as "Ukrainian spies") and often blocks or threatens to block Ukraine-related EU decisions. Having said that, elections are generally considered to be free and fair, and Fidesz has had a support of circa 45–55% in all parliamentary elections from 2010 to 2022, which can be considered a genuine public support (although critics often attribute this to the overwhelming weight of state and quasi-state media)—that support finally fell to 37% in 2026, in contrast to the 55% of Tisza. Hungary is classified as a "flawed democracy" by ''The Economist'', with roughly the same score as the Philippines and better than some other EU member states (e.g., Romania or Croatia). Nevertheless, the country's status was declared to be an "electoral autocracy" by resolution of the European Parliament in September 2022. There is no prosecution for public criticism of the government (many locals regularly do so), and this has not changed since the handover. As a foreigner, you should have no worries at all provided you observe the usual rules you would in any other country: don't come up with political topics out of the blue, and don't voice a strong opinion unless you know your audience is eager to hear it. There have been reports of general anti-foreigner sentiment and racism against people who look ethnically non-European, especially as Fidesz heavily relies on illegal migration as a campaign topic. However, Hungary seems to lie within the average of the former Eastern Bloc in that regard. Probably the most visible signs of the country's strange situation used to be ''propaganda posters'', placed all around the country even outside of campaign periods—it was quite common to have two or even three totally identical ones in the same bus stop! However, such posters have virtually completely disappeared since the handover. === Climate === Temperatures in Hungary vary from -20°C to 39°C through the year. Distribution and frequency of rainfall are unpredictable due to the continental climate of the country. Heavy storms are frequent after hot summer days, and so do more days long still rainfalls in the autumn. The western part of the country usually receives more rain than the eastern part, and severe droughts may occur in summertime. Weather conditions in the Great Plain can be especially harsh, with hot summers, cold winters, and scant rainfall. === Holidays === * '''1 January''' - New Year's Day * '''15 March''' - National Day (commemorating the 1848 Hungarian revolution and independence war against the Austrian Empire) * '''Flexible''' - Good Friday * '''Flexible''' - Easter * '''1 May''' - International Worker's Day * '''Flexible''' - Pentecost * '''20 August''' - State Foundation Day (also known as St. Stephen's Day) * '''23 October''' - National Day (also known as Republic Day) * '''1 November''' - All Saints Day * '''25-26 December''' - Christmas ===Visitor information === *[https://visithungary.com/ Visit Hungary] ==Talk== {{seealso|Hungarian phrasebook}} [[File:2013.09.09 Balaton (3).JPG|thumb|A road sign welcoming passers by to the town of Vonyarcvashegy near [[Keszthely]] in both the current (Roman) and the ancient Hungarian scripts—the latter of which, also called ''rovásírás'' or the "Hungarian runes," is only used ceremonially or as a sign of national pride]] Hungarians are rightly proud of their unique, complex, sophisticated, richly expressive language, '''[[Hungarian]]''' (''Magyar'' pronounced "mohdyohr"). It is a Uralic language most closely related to Mansi and Khanty of western Siberia. It is further sub-classified into the Finno-Ugric languages which include [[Finnish]] and [[Estonian]]; it is not at all related to any of its neighbours: the Slavic, Germanic, and Romance languages belonging to the Indo-European language family. Although Hungarian is related to Finnish and Estonian, it is not mutually intelligible with either of them. While there are some similarities in the vocabulary, the complicated grammar and pronunciation make it one of the most challenging languages for English speakers to learn. However, modern Hungarian is written in the Latin alphabet, which eliminates the need for English speakers to learn a new script. '''English''' is a mandatory subject in schools in Hungary. However, most Hungarians are not fluent in the language, and their level of proficiency is lower than that of many other European countries. Younger generations and people living in Budapest may be able to hold a decent conversation in English but don't expect the same from people in rural areas. It's best not to expect people to speak English at all in rural parts of the country. '''[[German phrasebook|German]]''' is spoken almost as widely as English and is almost universally spoken near the Austrian border, especially in [[Sopron]], which is officially bilingual and has significant contacts with Vienna due to its accessibility by Vienna suburban trains. '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''', which was compulsory in the Communist era, is spoken by a minority of Hungarians. Speaking Russian to Hungarians is a sensitive issue due to the history of unwanted Soviet domination, so be sure to begin the conversation in Hungarian and ask if the person speaks Russian before proceeding, and only use Russian as a last resort. ==Get in== {{Schengen}} Recognised refugees and stateless persons in possession of a valid travel document issued by the government of any one of the above countries/territories are exempt from obtaining a visa for Hungary (but ''no'' other Schengen country, except [[Germany]] and, for refugees, [[Slovakia]]) for a maximum stay of 90 days in a 180-day period. Citizens of [[Antigua and Barbuda]] are permitted to work in Hungary without the need to obtain a visa for the period of their 90-day visa-free stay. However, this ability to work visa-free does not necessarily extend to other Schengen countries. ===By plane=== [[File:Аэродромы и терминалы-перроны и стоянки, Будапешт RP42743.jpg|thumb|Budapest International Airport with old aircraft on display]] Hungary's international airports are '''[http://www.bud.hu/index.nfo?tPath=/english Liszt Ferenc Airport]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' ({{IATA|BUD}}) in [[Budapest]], '''[http://www.airportdebrecen.hu/ Airport Debrecen]{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' ({{IATA|DEB}}) in [[Debrecen]] and '''[http://www.hevizairport.com/ Hévíz–Balaton Airport]''' ({{IATA|SOB}}) in Sármellék. The Hungarian national carrier, '''Malév''' (Hungarian Airlines) was closed down in early 2012. There are also several '''low cost carriers''' operating to Budapest: for example '''[http://www.ryanair.com Ryanair]''', '''[http://www.wizzair.com Wizzair]''', '''[http://www.easyjet.com Easyjet]''' and '''[http://www.eurowings.com Eurowings]'''. ===By train=== [[Budapest]] is an important railway hub for the whole Hungary and large part of eastern Europe, with frequent trains from [[Austria]], [[Germany]], [[Czechia]] and [[Slovakia]]. There are at least one train daily from [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]], [[Croatia]], [[Italy]], [[Romania]], [[Russia]], [[Slovenia]], [[Serbia]], [[Switzerland]] and [[Ukraine]], as well as through cars from [[Poland]] and seasonal through [[sleeping train|sleepers]] from [[Bulgaria]] and [[Montenegro]]. For detailed info see [[Budapest#By_train]]. You can search for international train connections at [http://www.elvira.hu/ official schedule site] of MÁV, national train company, or at [http://www.bahn.de German Railways website] covering almost whole Europe. ===By car=== [[File:H-vignette 2007.jpg|thumb|As in much of Central Europe, motorways are toll roads. Such physical stickers do not exist anymore, however; instead, you need a "virtual sticker" (e-vignette).]] To enter the country, ensure that your International Motor Insurance Card is valid for Hungary (H) along with the Vehicle Registration and a Power of Attorney from the owner if the car is not yours. The border guards are very strict about allowing cars through without these documents (see excepts below). The Hungarian border control is very strict and thorough. They will not hesitate to conduct a full vehicle search if necessary. Entry from Schengen countries (Austria, Slovenia, Slovakia, Croatia) is out of such border control since the abolition of physical borders. All those remain show light control and due to a bilateral agreement Serbian citizens are also no more undergo a strict border control. However you have to take into consideration that from Schengen area you might undergo a so-called inside-customs control wherever moving/driving in the country. Non-Schengen passengers must take into account facing a strict control upon customs prescriptions from Ukraine and Serbia. Coming from Serbia you are allowed to bring 2 packets of cigarettes into Hungary. If you bring more they will take it and fine for €102. Weapons for hunting are allowed to bring in from any EU member state if you have a European Licence. However with possessing that you may not buy or sell your or a new weapon here. The same is the situation with illicit drugs as well. Infringement of these rules may definitely lead to your immediate arrest! Entry from non-Schengen countries can take quite a long time, in particular in the summer months on the weekends when EU-Nationals are returning north along the E75 corridor from Belgrade, Serbia. The wait lines to get through the border have been as long as 7&nbsp;km with a wait time of up to 6 hours. Alternative border points in Hungary or Croatia can be used to by-pass. If you are driving in from an EU country e.g. Austria, you are required to pull over to check with authorities at the border, otherwise, the borders are open and usually the immigration control kiosk are empty. When driving into Hungary, ensure that the border crossing on the route you choose allows the passage of foreigners. Also some smaller crossings close in the afternoon for the night. It is also required to buy a vignette for driving on highways: €20 for 10 days, €30 for a month as of 2024. === By bus === Several international bus lines go in or through Hungary. You can find timetables and book tickets on [http://www.volanbusz.hu/en/ the homepage of Volánbusz], which is the national bus company and also the local Eurolines representation. Alternatively, [http://www.orangeways.com/en Orangeways bus company]{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offer services on routes between Budapest and Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Poland, Romania and Slovakia. Timetables and online booking are available on their website. On the southern border with [[Serbia]] you shouldn't be surprised when there in the bus a collection is being held for a donation to the border-guards, to let the bus pass faster. ===By ship=== It is possible to enter Hungary by international shipping lines on Danube (Duna) or Tisza rivers. There is a scheduled hydrofoil service on the Danube to and from Vienna and Bratislava between May and September operated by '''[https://mahartpassnave.hu/en Mahart.]''' ===From Slovakia=== * You can use the bus no. 91 of the urban traffic company of Bratislava (DPB) going to Čunovo in order to cross between '''Rajka''' (Hungary) and '''Bratislava''' (Slovakia). In Bratislava, the bus has ''Nový most'' as its terminus, and near the Hungarian border you get on/off at the stop ''Čunovské jazerá'' (you need to signal to the driver if you plan to get off at this stop). From Čunovské jazerá it's a four-kilometer-long straight walk through a flat terrain to the town of Rajka, two kilometers on each side of the border. You may detour to visit a monument at the Austrian-Hungarian-Slovakian three country border. ==Get around== === By plane === Hungary has no regular domestic flights. As Budapest lies in the centre of the country and pretty much any point can be reached within three hours by train or bus, there isn't much need for scheduled domestic flights. However there are many opportunities for people with a valid pilot's license to rent a plane and explore by air. === By public transport === There are multiple trip planning websites for Hungarian public transport. To buy tickets, plan between stations, and for international routes use [https://jegy.mav.hu jegy.mav.hu]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. '''[https://emma.mav.hu/#/ Emma]{{Dead link|date=November 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' is the most complete domestic route planner that unifies data from multiple operators. It includes lasti-mile routing, live locations of vehicles, delays and distruptions. You can also use [https://menetrendek.hu menetrendek.hu]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, Google Maps, [https://apps.kde.org/itinerary/ KDE Itinerary] or the [https://play.google.com/store/apps/dev?id=6371723280654935223 MenetBrand android apps] to plan your trip - these all have generally up to date data as well. Some important words in Hungarian that may be helpful are: *“honnan” - from *“hová” - to *“Autóbusz állomás” - bus station *“naponta” - daily *“munkanapokon” - on workdays ==== By train ==== [[File:MÁV 480-001 2011-02-19 Szeged.JPG|thumb|Intercity train in [[Szeged]]]] The Hungarian National Railway is '''[http://www.mav-start.hu/ MÁV]''' and '''[http://www.gysev.hu GYSEV]''' (some lines in the west of the country). The train network is star-shaped (hub-and-spoke), fanning out from the centre at [[Budapest]]. This is caused by history because half of the once complete train system went to the neighbor countries after World War I. If neither the starting or ending point is Budapest, expect to travel for a ''long time'' often with change in Budapest. '''Intercity (IC)''' trains are the fastest, and they're up-to-date, usually well maintained and clean. They link the major cities with Budapest. Expect to pay about 550&nbsp;Ft extra fee independently from the distance for the mandatory seat reservation (not in international ICs, ECs). In some cases the extra charge can be lower. Compared to the majority of Western European ticket prices, Hungary's IC trains are among the cheapest, with an excellent record of speed and comfort. At the '''weekends''' many students use these IC trains to commute between Budapest and other cities, so an early advance booking is recommended on Friday afternoons for the trains leaving Budapest and on Sunday evenings for trains towards Budapest. Working with a notebook is generally safe, unless it's heavy overcrowded. Fast trains ('''Gyors''') are usually older train cars coupled with IC services, but you don't need a seat reservation to use them. Other train lines ('''Személy, Sebes, InterRégió, Zónázó''') usually are not that fast and use older carriages (even in the 1st class). However, quality standards are improving. During the summer, trains linking Balaton to Budapest are often overcrowded with the IC usually being sold out. Pricing depends only on the distance and on the car class. Cash desks assume 2nd class by default for non-IC trains (at least in Budapest for English speakers), so if you didn't catch your IC, consider asking 1st class, paying small extra for much more comfort. Smoking is prohibited on all trains, as well as on the station platforms. Since March 2024, '''people aged 65 and older '''and''' people under 14''' generally travel free of charge. '''People under 26''' receive a 50% discount. The 90% discount for students only applies for those living in and studying in Hungarian institution. ==== Train ticket types ==== Buy tickets and passes for all trains, long-distance buses and HÉV, and some international tickets on '''[https://jegy.mav.hu/ jegy.mav.hu]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' or the MÁV app. '''Regular tickets''' are valid from/to specific stations, but are valid once for any train within 24 hours. '''[https://www.ujtarifa.hu/en#gyik Passes]''' are valid for valid for almost all long-distance and some local services: trains (2nd class), long-distance buses, some local buses, trains, HÉV. These operators accept the passes: * the MÁV-Group: MÁV trains and VOLÁN buses * GYSEV trains * BKK (public transport within Budapest: you can also buy a Hungary or County pass from the BudapestGO app) * local bus operators in Csongrád, Érd, Esztergom * and some small bus companies: G-Busline Kft. (Budapest–Lenti), Trans-Tour 90 Kft. (Budapest–Beregsurány), Trans-Vonal Kft. (Nyíregyháza–Balsa), and Weekendbus Közlekedési Zrt. (Budapest–Csömör). If you have a pass and would like to use local services in a city outside of Budapest, check the local operators' site as your Pass might be valid for all transit, just buses or neither. If you travel on an IC train, you still have to reserve a seat alongside your pass. A '''County Pass''' is valid for 30 days within one county, costs 9450 Ft. A '''Hungary Pass''' is valid for the entire country. If you are planning to visit '''multiple regions''' or take lots of train trips, it might make sense to buy this at 18900 Ft. There is also a nationwide 24-hour pass. It's called '''''Hungary24''''' and costs {{HUF|4999}}. It is possible to use your '''[[Inter Rail|Interrail/Eurail]] pass''' in Hungary. Check whether buying tickets for each journey is cheaper. Most train stations will let you use a debit or credit card. Some stops might be served only by vending machines. A ''gépi menetjegykiadás'' is a staffed cashier desk; ''jegykiadó automata'' is a vending machine. You can buy tickets with euro. It is possible to purchase an international ticket and supplement at every Hungarian railway station which has an international cash desk. Cash desks do not accept euro bank notes of values above €50, and you will get the change in forints. ===== Fines ===== If you boarded at a station without a ticket office or vending machine, you can buy a regular ticket from the conductor. If you boarded at a station where purchasing a ticket was possible, you have to buy a ticket from the conductor and pay a 2600 Ft surcharge. If you boarded at a station within the [https://www.mavcsoport.hu/sites/default/files/upload/travel-offer/document/public/trkp_bp_jn_zona_01-1_2025-02-03_web.pdf Mandatory ticket pre-purchase zone around Budapest], you have to buy a ticket and pay a 25000 Ft fine. This fine isn't fully enforced yet, there is a grace period until 31 Aug 2025. Some lines might operate without a conductor: in this case buy a ticket before boarding. '''Bike transport''' The easiest way to check if you can transport bikes is to check the Bicycle checkmark on emma.mav.hu or jegy.mav.hu when planning a trip. You will have to buy a separate bike ticket (500 Ft) and on very popular lines you might have to reserve a bicycle space as well. '''[http://www.mav-start.hu/english/reisen/transporting_bicycles.php International bike transport]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' on the train also possible on selected trains cost €4-10 (vary), first price to [[Vienna]], the highest to [[Hamburg]] (via [[Berlin]]). List of [http://www.mav-start.hu/utazas/eticket_kioszk.php '''e-ticket acceptance point''']{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}s like a vending machine. Buy the ticket [http://jegyvasarlas.mav-start.hu/eTicketV2/V2/Bejelentkezes.jsp?Lang=EN on the Net]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and find at the station the pre-purchased ticket issuing machine to validate and print your ticket. There are '''[http://www.mav-start.hu/utazas/csomag_orzo.php luggage rooms or lockers]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (Hu: csomagmegörző) in train stations. Lockers cost (since 2010): small 400&nbsp;Ft, or bigger 600&nbsp;Ft per 24hours. More than one day cost 600&nbsp;Ft per each started day. An incomplete list of stations with Luggage rooms or/and lockers: Budapest-Déli, Kelenföld (Budapest), Budapest-Keleti, Budapest-Nyugati, Debrecen, Győr, Miskolc-Tiszai, Nyíregyháza, Siófok, [[Sopron]], [[Szolnok]], [[Szombathely]]. ==== By bus ==== Hungary’s national bus network is operated by the MÁV-Group (previously run by the '''[https://www.volanbusz.hu/en Volán Association]'''). Connections are frequent, and prices are identical to those on non-Intercity trains. Bus lines often are more complete than train lines, but the speed is quite similar. Long-distance buses are clean and safe, but often subject to delays. Buy your ticket at the station ticket desk before boarding; if you do not take your bus at a main station, purchase a ticket from the driver. In Budapest and major cities, make sure that you validate tickets even when buying from the bus driver. The small orange boxes are used for validating tickets and are seen at several points throughout the bus. It is a good idea to reserve your tickets for national holidays, Friday and Sunday evenings beforehand. Online booking is available [https://webelin.volanbusz.hu/belfold/elovetel/xelinmain?lang=en in English]. You can plan your trip with any of the trip planning services mentioned at the beginning of the chapter. '''People aged 65 and older '''and''' people under 14''' generally travel free of charge. Persons between 14 and 25 get 50% discounts. ==== By boat ==== There are several scheduled riverboat and hydrofoil lines operated by [https://mahartpassnave.hu/en MAHART PassNave Ltd.] from the capital city [[Budapest]] to towns in the Danubebend, like [[Szentendre]], [[Visegrád]] and [[Esztergom]], and also a good hydrofoil boat connection operated by the same company between [[Vienna]] and Budapest from May to September. In the capital city there are several sightseeing and night cruises operated by MAHART PassNave Ltd. and other shipping companies, like Legenda Ltd. There are some ferries on Danube and Tisza but their working hours are undependable. You can trust the ferry on Lake Balaton, though, for a modest price. === By car === [[File:Hungary road sign G-401.svg|thumb|Standard speed limits in Hungary]] Aggressive and unpredictable driving and speeds significantly higher than in northern Europe are a constant source of traffic incidents. Traffic lights are not always obeyed. Most roads in Hungary are two-lane, apart from modern motorways. Roads and motorways leading to Budapest are mostly in good shape; however, cracks, potholes and bumpy roads are common on minor roads and in major cities, though they are constantly being repaired. It is usually not difficult to travel by using a map and following road signs. Expressways are not free, but there are no other toll roads or tunnels. A vignette system is used, similar to that in neighboring Austria and Slovakia, but as of 2013 the vignette is stored electronically and checked for using gantries that read licence plate numbers. You can purchase them in intervals of 10 days (called "Weekly vignette"), 1 month, or 1 year. The vignette is very important and it is a good idea to buy it even if you don't plan to use the highway. Control is automatic with video cameras and you will get a high ticket (20,000&nbsp;Ft) automatically without any warning. If you travel by normal roads the speed limit is 90&nbsp;km/h between cities and 50&nbsp;km/h inside, which slows you to the average around 60&nbsp;km/h. Roads often have high traffic (especially main roads like #8 to the west, #6 to the south and #4 to the east). On highways the speed limit is 130&nbsp;km/h, travel is the same as in Germany, and on the inside lane it is very common to have someone speed by you. Expect the Police to use speed traps of all kinds: fixed ones on all motorways which are signed, and mobile ones from bridges, cars standing on the shoulder or behind bushes and trees. Beware that some policemen hide around speed limit signs, especially when the sign visibly useless or if it's extremely slow for the given road type. Police corruption is widespread especially around Budapest (generally 10,000&nbsp;Ft solves usual problems if you don't get arrested for it). When you cross the country from the west to the east (or vice versa), take into account that there are only a few bridges crossing the [[Danube]] outside [[Budapest]]. There are some ferries available though. Outside urban areas, it is a legal requirement to drive with headlights on, even during the day—a requirement that is becoming more common across the EU. Hungary has a policy of zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol. If you are caught driving even after only having a couple of units of alcohol you are most likely to be arrested. ==== Highways ==== [[File:M1 (Hu) Otszogletu kek tabla.svg|thumb|Motorway#1]] There is a fast growing highway network in Hungary (1,480&nbsp;km in total). Each highway starts in Budapest. * M0 - Motorway ring around Budapest. The north-east and south sections are ready. * M1 - connection to [[Győr]], [[Austria]] and [[Slovakia]] (west) * M2 - connection to [[Vác]], planned to reach the border to [[Slovakia]] by 2015 (north) * M3/M30/M35 - connection to [[Miskolc]], [[Debrecen]] and [[Nyíregyháza]] (east) * M5 - connection to [[Serbia]], via [[Kecskemét]] and [[Szeged]] (south-east) * M6/M60 - Connection to [[Dunaújváros]] and [[Pécs]](south) * M7/M70 - connection to [[Lake Balaton]], [[Croatia]] and [[Slovenia]] (south-west) * M4 - connection to [[Romania]] via [[Szolnok]] (east) * M44 - connection between the M5 at [[Kecskemét]] and the Romanian border via [[Békéscsaba]] (east) * M8/M9 - will cross the country (east-west) A single vignette is required to use all highways, except for M0 and short sections around major cities, which are free. Vignettes can be purchased online with bankcard on the official [https://ematrica.nemzetiutdij.hu/en/ web] (and several private online companies, e.g. [https://www.hungary-vignette.eu/en Hungary-vignette] ), at filling stations and at [http://www.motorway.hu/ ÁAK] (State Motorway Management Co.) offices. A 10-day vignette for a passenger car costs 2975&nbsp;Ft during summertime, the 4-day ticket for car has been cancelled. Vignettes are controlled automatically through a camera system. ===By car pool=== The Hungarian [http://oszkar.com oszkar.com social car pool network/website] will allow you to find cheap transport around the country and from (and to) many European cities (especially Vienna, but many German cities are also well "serviced"). In case you're not familiar with the idea: people who travel by car and willing to take passengers post their itinerary. You can hitch a ride by booking it on the website and then contacting the driver, whose contact information the website furnishes you with. People wishing to travel by car pool can also post and hope to be found by a prospective driver. Passengers are expected to contribute to the cost of the trip, but "fares" are typically much lower than bus/coach or rail fares (e.g. as of 2013, a trip from Vienna to Budapest may cost 2,500–6,500&nbsp;Ft). A significant downside is that the site is in Hungarian (although you might be able to navigate it with a service Google Translate) and that booking (but not searching) requires registration, which is free. Drivers as well as passengers can rate each other after trips, much like at auction sites. Drivers are typically young adults (young enough to be familiar with the Internet and old enough to own their own cars); this also means they're slightly more likely to speak a foreign language than the average Hungarian, but you still shouldn't depend on it. Some commercial "shuttle operators" use oszkar.com to offer rides too; their postings are visually distinguishable from "amateur" ones. Oszkar.com is a buyer's market: there are generally many more passenger seats available than passengers. ===By taxi=== {{seealso|Budapest#By taxi}} Inspect the change that taxi drivers give you. Cabbies commonly rip off tourists by giving them change in outdated Romanian currency, which looks similar to Hungarian currency, but is worthless and cannot be redeemed. Ride-hailing is available in Hungary and the following are the most anticipated providers: * {{go | name=Bolt | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-07-09 | content=Works in Budapest, Debrecen and Pécs. }} ==See== Hungary has several [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage sites]]. These are: [[Image:Estibp13.jpg|300px|thumb|right|Buda Castle by night]] * [[Budapest]], including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue * Old Village of [[Hollókő]] and its Surroundings * Caves of [[Miskolc#Further afield|Aggtelek National Park]] — beautiful caves with dripstones and stalagmites * Millenary Benedictine Abbey of [[Pannonhalma#Q936285|Pannonhalma]] and its Natural Environment * [[Hortobágy]] National Park — the Puszta * Early Christian Necropolis of [[Pécs]] (Sopianae) * [[Sopron#Further afield|Fertő Lake]] Cultural Landscape common place with Austria more see there * [[Tokaj]] and '''Villány''' Wine Regions and Historic Cultural Landscapes You can also check the [[National parks in Hungary]] page. Other major tourist destination is [[Lake Balaton]], with winehills, thermal spa in [[Hévíz]], '''Hajdúszoboszló''' and [[Harkány]] around. [[Sopron]] is one of the most popular place for a sightseeing in the region. There are also some amazing things to see. * '''Tiszavirágzás'''. In mid-June the Tisza produces swarms of mayflies which are likened to flowers. Once decimated by pollution, the population is rebounding. (They're famous for living only for 1–2 days.) * '''Busójárás'''. In February the people chase away bad ghosts by loud clamping on streets of '''Mohács'''. ==Do== * '''Birdwatching:''' Hungary has wooded hills, vast fish-pond systems and grasslands, the ''puszta''. Particularly good areas are the [[Kiskunság National Park]], [[Hortobágy]] National Park and the Aggtelek, Bukk and Zemplen Hills. * '''Horse riding:''' Vast areas of open countryside coupled with the long traditions of horsemanship make Hungary an ideal country for riding. Wide open plains in the south and forested hills in the north offer varied riding terrain. * '''Baths:''' Thermal waters abound in Hungary, with over 1000 thermal springs many of which have been turned into baths and spas. The most famous are the [[Budapest#Szchnyi_Spa|Szechenyi baths in Budapest]], but there are hundreds more. The cave baths at [[Miskolc-Tapolca]] and the spa at [[Northern_Hungary#Heves_County|Egerszalók]] are good examples. See also [[Budapest#Baths]], [[Nyíregyháza#Do]], and [http://www.gyogyviz.hu/ogyfi_kulso.htm a selected list] of authorized medicinal waters. * '''Football:''' 12 teams play soccer in the country's top tier, Nemzeti Bajnokság I or NB1; four of them are based in Budapest. The national team play home games at Puskás Aréna in Budapest, completed in 2019. *'''Autosport:''' Watch the '''Formula One Hungarian Grand Prix''' in the July window. It takes place at the Hungaroring circuit in Budapest. The Hungarian Grand Prix is also termed as 'Monaco without the bars/railings'. Book early because it follows the Belgium Grand Prix and people use the wise decision to book the tickets after the fourth race of the season. Hungaroring is also known for its nice scenery outside the race track and for heavy rains at unexpected times. Hungaroring also hosts the second tier racing, third tier racing and other events. * '''Cycling:''' the premier race is the [https://www.tourdehongrie.hu/en Tour de Hongrie] held over four days in May. ==Buy== ===Money=== <!-- {{exchange rate HUF}}--> {{exchange rates | currency=Hungarian forint | currencyCode=Ft | date=January 2026 | USD=325 | EUR=385 | GBP=44 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/huf-hungarian-forint XE.com]}} [[File:Forint-200-500-1000-2000-5000.jpg|right|thumb|350px|Hungarian forint banknotes ''(including the now withdrawn 200 Ft note)'']] The Hungarian currency is the '''forint''', denoted by the symbol "'''Ft'''" (ISO code: '''HUF'''). Notes come in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000 forint; coins are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 two-coloured, similar to €2) and 200 (two-coloured, similar to €1) forint. Euros are now accepted at most hotels and some of the restaurants and shops. Make sure you check the exchange rate, sometimes even well known places (like McDonald's) will exchange at unrealistic rates. Forints are to disappear in the coming years in favour of the euro, but no date has been fixed. You can use major credit cards (EuroCard, Visa) in major shops and larger restaurants, but never expect that without checking first. Small places cannot afford to handle cards. ATMs are available even in small cities, the coverage is good. In Budapest, almost all businesses and services relevant to tourists support card payments. While completing any monetary transactions, it is best to pay in forint when you can. Some restaurants and hotels charge a steep rate for exchanging euros and often due to the fluctuation in forint, cost and services stated may vary drastically. ====Money exchange==== Shopping in Hungary is extremely cheap for people from the euro zone and the US. An exception to this rule is that luxury goods are often at higher prices than would be encountered in Western Europe or the US. Exchange rates for euros and US dollars are roughly the same within central (at least in [[Budapest]] and [[Eger]]). Rates will likely be much worse in airports and large train stations, so only change what you need to reach the city centre. A good habit is to compare the buy and sell rates: if they are drastically different, you're best going somewhere else. Official exchange offices always give a receipt and normally have a large glass between client and a cashier making all steps transparent for clients. Euros are very widely accepted, in hotels, in some splurge restaurants or bars, in some shop (like all SPAR super/hypermarkets, usually at the cashdesk area is a board with the actual rate), or international cash desk of course the rates five even ten percent worse than in the banks and be prepared for the change they will get back in forint. Try using small notes (max. 50), at international cash desk can even pay also with coins and the rate is ok. Traded currencies at the two biggest Hungarian bank [https://www.kh.hu/publish/kh/hu/lakossag/arfolyamok_kondiciok.html K&H Bank]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}: AUD, CAD, CHF, CZK, DKK, EUR, GBP, JPY, NOK, PLN, SEK, USD; [https://www.otpbank.hu/portal/en/Rates/CashandFX OTP Bank]: same as K&H plus BGN, RUB and accepted Euro or Amex travellers cheques (commission). Smaller banks like [https://www.raiffeisen.hu/en/web/english/home Raiffeisen Bank]{{Dead link|date=December 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (for CZK), [http://www.oberbank.hu/OBK_webp/OBK/oberbank_hu/index.jsp Oberbank]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (for CHF) or [http://www.sberbank.hu/en/private.html Sberbank]{{Dead link|date=March 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (for RUB) giving better rates, but not change so many currencies (need to check as it is variable). For your remaining forints, buying euros, US dollars and Swiss francs is always available, but others only when in stock. More unusual currencies, such as Israeli shekels, Hong Kong dollars, or Ukrainian hryvnia, can only be exchanged at money changers. If you arrive in Hungary at weekends, holidays or evening banks are closed only ATMs or money changer shops or some hotels (mostly the biggers). ATMs and banks can be found in hypermarkets. If you arrive at Budapest Ferihegy Airport late at night or on state holidays changing money is possible as there are five [http://www.bud.hu/english/passengers/shopping_and_gastronomy/services/interchange-8182.html interchange]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} money changer offices. Opening times vary: from morning to around midnight, and one is open 24 hours a day. There is an ATM in the arrival hall at Budapest Ferihegy, and the rates for using ATMs with a card are often better than the bureau de change. Also Interchange has booths at Déli (one), Keleti (three), Nyugati (one) Railway stations. These are open daily from 07:00 or earlier to 20:50-23:30. Locations and opening time [https://interchange.eu/branch/location/hungary/ here]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. In the city centre of Budapest at #2 Vörösmarty square ([[File:BKV m 1 jms.svg|15px]]:Vörösmarty tér) branch is open 24 hours a day. There are many ATMs in Budapest which will accept European and North American debit or credit cards. Be aware that "Euronet" ATMs will typically charge 2000–2500 HUF in addition to any charges your own bank may apply, whereas ATMs operated by banks (e.g. OTP Bank, Raiffeisenbank) don't add extra charges. Visitors report that unofficial money changers operating near an official money changing booth offer unfavourable rates and recommend using the official exchange offices. Such exchangers are illegal and there is the possibility that you will receive something other than Hungarian currency or nothing at all. ===Tipping=== [[Tipping|Tips]] (''borravaló'') are given in Hungary for some services: in restaurants, in bars, to taxi drivers, to hairdressers, and often to people that fix things around the house, like plumbers and electricians. Although not legally required, social norms encourage that tips are given. 10% is usually enough. Check your receipt before you pay, because some bars and restaurants charge a 10% service fee (szervizdíj), in this case tipping is not expected. ===Shopping=== Apart from classic tourist souvenirs such as postcards and trinkets, here are some things unique to Hungary or just hard to find elsewhere. ==== Hungarian foods ==== [[File:Almog 9 Budamarket.jpg|thumb|Paprika and garlic products for sale]] * '''Duck and goose liver''' * '''Salamis''' - products of [http://herz.hu/ Hertz], Picks are the best, try Winter salami (Hu: Téliszalámi) * '''Sweets''' Chocolates with fruit Brandy, Szamos Marzipan dessert, Praline with Truffle, szaloncukor, literally: "parlour candy", is a popular sweet at Christmas. * '''Cold-smoked sausages''' - Mangalica and grey beef specials * '''Herbal Teas''' * '''Truffle Products''' - Honeys, Jams * '''Spices''': Paprika and Hungarian Saffron * '''Gundel set of cheese''': aged in Gundel wines or with walnut pieces or seasonings. Most easily found in 350 g sets of three kinds in duty-free of Ferihegy Airport in [[Budapest]] (at least in Terminal 2), but is likely available in Gundel 1894 Food & Wine Cellar (see [[Budapest/Pest#Gundel|Pest#Eat]]). Keep in mind that shelf life for this cheese is only 2 months. ====Hungarian beverages ==== * '''Champagnes''' * '''Wines''': the vineries of Badacsony, Tokaj, Villány have the best products, but when purchasing wine beyond the right kind and vintage is also important the wine rack. The wrought iron with wine leaves is very showy, but if you are traveling by plane difficult to transport, so maybe a wood is more practical and you can buy a wide range of it. Other good names are: Somlói Juhfark, Egri Bikavér (see Liquor), Kadarka, red wine from Villány area etc. * '''Pálinka''': very famous and strong brandy made from fruits. * '''Unicum''': a herbal digestif liqueur. ==== Others ==== [[File:Ceramic house, palinka flasks in Gyenesdiás, 2016 Hungary.jpg|thumb|Porcelain palinka bottles]] * '''Black pottery''' - part of the Transdanubian folk art * '''Porcelain''' - look for high quality handmade Herend and Zsolnay products, usually sell them in set, simple candle holders are much cheaper and also popular * Herend '''majolica''' at more affordable prices than the classic Herend. * '''Hungarian Cuisine book''' (English, German, French, Spanish, Italian) * 'matyó' patterned wooden spoons, ceramic of Sárospatak spoon holder * '''Embroideries''' such as patterned of Kalocsa or Matyó. * '''Blueprinted textiles''' mostly linen or cotton materials * '''Diamonds''' in handmade white gold, platinum inlaid jewellery, try your luck at [[Szentendre]] the Europe’s largest diamond & jewellery centre * '''Handicrafts and decorative arts''' works decorated with traditional, Hungarian folk motifs (letter-paper envelope sets, greeting cards, handkerchiefs, napkins, tablecloths, pillows, towels) * The '''Rubik's cube''' originated in Hungary and was invented in 1974 by Erno Rubik and is one example of its longstanding gaming tradition. ==Eat== Main courses in menu are normally 3000–5000&nbsp;Ft in touristy places in Budapest, 2000–3000&nbsp;Ft outside it, or in towns like [[Eger]] and [[Szentendre]]. A two-course lunch with a soft drink in [[Budapest]] typically costs 3000–10000&nbsp;Ft per person, and half or third of that outside [[Budapest]]. A Chinese fast food menu is around 1500&nbsp;Ft. (updated Jan 2023) In restaurants, a service charge is frequently included into bill, 10% or even 12%, but this has to be clearly pointed out on the menu. If it's not mentioned, the place has no right to include a service charge in the bill. Even if there's no service charge, unless the service was preposterous most Hungarians tend to leave a tip of 10% minimum. Unlike in most western countries, tip is usually not left on the table but rather the amount is specified to the waiting staff when you pay. There were some places, mainly in the centre of Pest, that try to rip off drunk tourists at night by charging ridiculously high prices for drinks. Most of these places are closed now, but it's still a good idea to always check the prices before ordering. Common in major cities and next to the highways are branches of major international chains such as [http://kfc.hu/en/ KFC], [http://www.mcdonalds.hu/ McDonald's], [http://www.burgerking.hu/ettermek/ Burger King]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://www.subwayhungary.com/hu/page_restaurant_locator.html Subway]{{Dead link|date=August 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://www.pizzahut.hu/etterem_kereso/ Pizza Hut]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}and [http://www.fridays.hu/ TGI Friday's]{{Dead link|date=August 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} last two just in Budapest. ===Cuisine=== [[Image:Szentendre Goulash.JPG|thumb|A fancy serving of ''gulyás'' soup]] [[File:2009-09-gulasch-pörkölt-paprikas-1.jpg|thumb|'''Pörkölt''' (is a meat stew which originates from Hungary) and '''Nokedli''' (a pasta, used as side dish)]] Hungarians are quite proud of their cuisine (''Magyar konyha''), and most of the time not without reason. Food is usually spicy, but not hot by general standards, and it's tasty rather than healthy: many dishes are prepared with lard or deep-fried. The national spice is '''paprika''', made from ground sweet bell peppers. * {{eat | name=Goulash | alt=pörkölt | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q205762 | lastedit=2023-12-03 | content=The national dish is '''goulash''' but Hungarians call the thick paprika-laden stew known as goulash elsewhere by the term ''pörkölt'' and reserve the term ''gulyás'' for a lighter paprika-flavoured soup. }} Meat is popular, especially pork (sertés), beef (marha) and venison (őz). Less common are lamb and mutton. Chicken (csirke) and turkey (pulyka) are common, and you will also find game birds excellent in smarter restaurants and country areas: pheasant (fácán), partridge (fogoly) and duck (kacsa). Goose is also quite popular in Hungary. While tourists gorge on '''goose liver''' (''libamáj''), still cheap by Western standards, probably the most common dish is ''sült libacomb'', '''roast goose leg'''. The best fish in Hungary are river fish: carp (ponty), zander (fogas/süllő) and catfish (harcsa), though many restaurants will serve fish from far away. Another typical Hungarian fish meal is roasted hake (sült hekk). Less well known in the rest of the world are '''csirke paprikás''', chicken stew in paprika sauce, and '''halászlé''', paprika fish soup often made from carp. Stuffed (''töltött'') vegetables of all kinds are also popular, and Hungarian pancakes ('''palacsinta'''), both savoury and sweet, are a treat. Common snacks include '''kolbász''', a Hungarianised version of the Polish ''kielbasa'' sausage, and '''lángos''', deep-fried dough with a variety of toppings (mostly sour cream, cheese, or garlic). A typical Hungarian meal will involve soup, often like a consommé (erőleves), meat with potatoes (burgonya) and a side salad, and a dessert such as pancakes (palacsinta). A meal is almost always, even at breakfast, accompanied by Hungarian '''pickles''' called ''savanyúság'', literally "sourness". These are often dubbed ''saláta'' on menus, so order a ''vitamin saláta'' if you want fresh vegetables. Starch is most often served as potatoes, rice or dumplings (''galuska'' or ''nokedli''). The primary Hungarian contribution in this field is an unusual type of small couscous-like pasta called ''tarhonya''. It is worth visiting a "cukrászda" if you are in Hungary. These are very popular with delicious cakes and coffee. Try the traditional krémes (with vanilla cream), eszterházy (lots of nuts) or somlói galuska. Another favourite is '''lángos''', which is deep-fried bread served served with various fillings. The most common is plain, with salt, garlic (fokhagyma) and soured cream (tejföl). If you do come across a lángos stand, there are usually a large number of options from pizza lángos, or eggs with mayonnaise or Nutella and bananas. ===Vegetarian food=== Vegetarians and vegans will have about as much ease eating out as in any other western country. [[Budapest]] is not a problem, as there is a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, but in an ordinary Hungarian restaurant the non-meat mains on the menu are pretty much limited to ''rántott sajt'' (fried cheese) and ''gombafejek rántva'' (fried mushrooms), but some places will avoid meat for your order if asked. Italian food is popular, so as long as you don't mind a pasta heavy diet as a vegetarian you will find a wider choice. For self-catering, the selection of fruits and vegetables from supermarkets or local shops and market is quite good, especially in summer. There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, and a lot of health food stores that offer all sorts of vegetarian/vegan products, including cosmetics. ==Drink== ===Wine=== [[Image:Wine regions Hungary.svg|right|thumb|350px|Hungary has several famous vine regions, most known are No.5 '''Badacsony''', No.20 [[Eger]], No.13 [[Szekszárd]], No.22 [[Tokaj]], No.15 '''Villány'''. Prices are reasonable.]] [[Image:Villany, wine.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Hills, grape plantations and wine cellars near '''Villány''', southern Hungary.]] <!-- NOTE TO EDITORS: This is a short summary for "Egri Bikavér", which should be described fully in [[Eger#Drink]]. Please update information there as a primary description; add only most essential details here. --> * '''Egri Bikavér''' (Bull's Blood of Eger) (1000&nbsp;Ft for a good one) is a strong red Hungarian wine which supposedly saved a clever Hungarian girl from her fate with a Turkish sultan. During the time of the Turkish occupation, it is said a young girl was summoned to become a member of the local sultan's harem. Not wanting this fate for his daughter, her father gave her a bottle of Egri Bikavér to take to the sultan. He told her to tell the ruler it was bull's blood, and would make him invincible. The sultan, being Muslim, was unaccustomed to alcohol, and proceeded to pass out, leaving the daughter unharmed. There is another story connected to why Bull's Blood is called so, and it also comes from the Turkish era. According to that one, the defenders of the different castles used to drink this red wine. When they saw the color on the mouths of the Hungarians, they thought that it must have been from a bull, thus the name. * '''Tokaj''' is known for its sweet dessert wines (''Tokaji aszú''), (2000–6000&nbsp;Ft) which acquire their distinctive taste from grapes infected by the "noble rot" ''Botrytis cinerea''. The favorite tipple of aristocracy, past fans of Tokaji include Louis XIV (who called Tokaj as "''The king of the wines, the wine of the kings''"), Beethoven, Napoleon III and Peter the Great &mdash; which is still reflected in the steep pricing of the best varieties. Almost uniquely among white wines, Tokaj keeps well for a long time. Hungarian wine, including champagne ("pezsgő"), is quite likely to be sweet ("Édes" or "félédes"). If dry wine is your preference, look for the word "Száraz" on the label. When buying bottled wine, don't bother with types cheaper than 600–700&nbsp;Ft, as they are usually very low quality (maybe not even produced from grapes). In wine cellars high quality may be available at surprisingly low prices. ===Liquor=== In Hungarian, '''pálinka''' denotes strong brandy-like liquor distilled from fruit. ''Pálinka'' is a very social drink: just as the English drink tea, the Hungarians, especially in rural areas, will offer ''pálinka'' to guests upon arrival. The best-known varieties are ''barackpálinka'', made from apricots, ''körtepálinka'' from pears, and ''szilvapálinka'' made from plums. Factory-made ''pálinka'' is widely available, but keep an eye out for homemade ''házipálinka''. Pálinkas usually contain around or above 50% of alcohol, often more for the homemade ones. Pálinka bottles marked ''mézes'' will be heavily sweetened with honey. (3000&nbsp;Ft for something good) '''Unicum''' is a strong ''digestif'' made from a secret mix of over 40 herbs. It comes in striking black bottles emblazoned with a red and white cross, and has a very strong and unusual taste. ''Unicum Next'' has a lighter, citrusy flavor, and is rather more palatable. Definitely worth trying, the spherical bottle (affectionately called "the Holy Hand Grenade") itself may also be used for decoration, and keeps very well for a long time. It is available in every bar in Hungary but it is rare to see someone drinking it. ===Beer=== Hungarian beer is quite average compared to other Central European countries like Germany and the Czech Republic as it has long been a wine culture. The most common beers are Dreher, Szalon, Borsodi, Soproni and Arany Ászok, available in the styles ''világos'' (lager) and ''barna'' (brown). All of Hungarian breweries are owned and managed by international brands such as: Dreher Sörgyár (Budapest); Heineken Hungaria (Sopron and Martfű); Heineken; Borsodi Sörgyár (Bőcs); Pécsi Sörfőzde (Pécs); Ottakinger. They cost 200–300&nbsp;Ft at a store and 400–600&nbsp;Ft at a bar. Some expensive club can charge up to 900 in Budapest. Imported beers like Pilsner Urquell, Staropramen and Budweiser-Budvar (the original Czech variety) are widely available in bars and markets for not much more than the ubiquitous Hungarian brands. When offering a toast with beer, be warned that most Hungarians will politely refuse. This is due to an old tradition due to remembering soldiers executed by the Habsburgs of Austria in the 1848 revolution, whereby it was decreed no Hungarian would toast with beer for 150 years. It's been so long, however, that most Hungarians no longer know the origins of this tradition or that they've been free to make toasts over beer for the past ten years. ===Coffee=== Cafe culture is widespread in Hungary, although it may never recover the romance of its turn-of-the-century intellectual heyday. Unless asked, it's a good idea to specify what kind of coffee you prefer. The word ''kávé'' means the strong, espresso-like coffee, although American-style coffee, known as ''hosszú kávé'' in Hungarian, usually translated as "long coffee", is also available at most places. ===Tea=== Tea houses are becoming popular in cities, especially among the young. There is a growing number of tea houses, mainly in [[Budapest]] and some bigger cities where people can buy several types of loose tea. The best teas are herbal and fruit varieties. In restaurants and cafes, lemon juice is frequently served in a small bottle. However, in traditional restaurants or cafes good teas are hard to find as coffee are preferred. ==Sleep== ===Hostels=== Very good rated hostels cost about €9–22 per night. The lower prices you usually get during week-days and in low season. (updated July 2022) ===Farmhouses=== '''Village Tourism''' is popular and very well developed in Hungary, and can be a remarkable experience. Start your research with ''1Hungary'' [http://www.1hungary.com/info/hungary/], ''National Federation of Rural and Agrotourism'' [http://www.fatosz.hu/11-5115.html]{{Dead link|date=October 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and ''Centre of Rural Tourism'' [http://www.falutur.hu/]. Near Budapest it is also possible to find rural houses to rent, for instance the ''Wild Grape Guesthouse'' [http://www.travelfever.org/]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, what makes a good combination to explore the capital and a National Park while staying at the same accommodation. ===Camping=== There are campgrounds available. See the city guides, including the [[Budapest]] guide. ==Learn== Hungary is a country known for its rich academic tradition and cultural diversity, where education is highly valued. It boasts 13 Nobel laureates, numerous inventors, artists, and scientists, and is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. Despite facing many historical challenges and transformations, Hungarians strongly believe in the power of knowledge to preserve their identity and sovereignty. This unwavering commitment to education and innovation has made Hungary a member of the European Union and a leader in several fields of science and technology. Hungarian universities are open to all foreign students. Many European exchange students come through the EU's Erasmus program. There are quite a lot students from Asia and the Middle East as well, particularly because despite the high standard of education, fees are still considerably lower than in the more developed Western European countries. Those interested should visit Study in Hungary [http://www.studyhungary.hu/] or University of Debrecen [http://www.ud-mhsc.org/] websites. [http://studyuniversity.info/map/direct/73 Map of Hungarian universities and colleges]{{Dead link|date=April 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. ==Work== It could be very difficult for an individual to seek legal employment in Hungary because of the complexity, cost and time involved. Most foreign workers in Hungary have received their visas and other necessary documents through the company they are employed by. It is hoped, however, that since the joining of Hungary to the EU a reduction will follow in the amount of red tape involved. Citizens of Antigua and Barbuda are permitted to work in Hungary without the need to obtain a visa for the period of their 90 day visa-free stay. However, this ability to work visa-free does not necessarily extend to other Schengen countries. Many students, usually on a gap year, work as second language teachers at one of Budapest's many language schools. A qualification is required (ESL/TEFL/TESOL) and experience is preferred. One option is to teach through the Central European Teaching Program. For a placement fee they will take care of paperwork and set you up in a school in Hungary teaching English on a local salary. Contracts are for one semester or a whole school year. Qualified ESL/EFL teachers can find employment in Hungary at private language schools which offer better rates of pay and without having to pay a placement fee. See also [[Budapest#Work|Work section in Budapest article]]. ==Stay safe== [[File:Budapest bei Nacht Pestseite.jpg|thumb|Budapest by night]] Hungary in general is a very safe country. However, petty crime in particular remains a concern, just like in any other country. Watch your bags and pockets on public transport. There is a danger of [[pickpockets]]. Passports, cash and credit cards are common targets of thieves. Keep items that you do not store in your hotel safe or residence in a safe place, but be aware that pockets, purses and backpacks are especially vulnerable, even if closed. There are also reported cases of people who got their baggage stolen while sleeping on the train. Generally, Hungary is rather quiet during the night compared to other European countries, and crime to tourists is limited to pickpocketing, and [[common scams|cheating on prices and bills and taxi fares]]. Everyone is required to carry their passport and ID card. Not doing so lead to trouble with the police. The police generally accept a colour copy of your passport. The police force is professional and well trained, but most hardly speak any English. See the Budapest travel guide for more specific and valuable information about common street scams and tourist traps in Hungary. Despite the government's controversial rhetoric regarding immigration, most Hungarians are not racist or xenophobic, and Budapest does have a small yet vibrant immigrant community. With that said, you might want to avoid living in rural areas if you are not white. === Driving conditions === The majority of Hungarians drive dangerously and had 739 deaths on the roads in 2010. This is largely due to careless driving habits. Many drivers do not observe the speed limits and you should be extra careful on two-way roads where local drivers pass each other frequently and allow for less space than you may be used to. Car seats are required for infants. Children under age 12 may not sit in the front seat. Seat belts are mandatory for everyone in the car. You may not turn right on a red light. The police issues tickets for traffic violations and issue on the spot fines. In practice the laws are widely ignored. Also, Hungarian laws have '''zero tolerance''' to drink and drive, and the penalty is a severe fine. It means no alcoholic beverage is allowed to be consumed if driving, '''no blood alcohol of any level is acceptable.''' Failure to pay fines may result in your passport getting confiscated, or even a jail term until or unless you pay the fine. More importantly, the police stops vehicles regularly for document checks. You shouldn't worry when you are stopped because by law, everyone needs to have their identification papers checked. Hungary has some of the harshest penalties for those involved in a car accident. Involvement in a car accident results in a fine, and maybe a prison sentence from 1 year to 5 years (depending on the aggravating circumstances). ==Stay healthy== Food and water is generally safe, even in remote villages. It is safe to drink '''[[tap water]]''' anywhere, even in remote areas, however, due to the cleaning process the taste of the water can be really unpleasant. Best idea is to try before changing to the bottled water. Bottled waters has a large selection, both the fizzy (blue bottle cap) and still (red/pink bottle cap) water and it is cheap (starts from less than 100&nbsp;Ft for 1.5 litre). The only notable exception of the drinking water are trains where the tap water is not drinkable and other places where tap water is labeled as such. It is widely available and good practice to have with you a bottle during hot summer. Private health care providers are high quality, but limited in scope once outside Budapest. Dentistry is cheaper here than in Western Europe (8000–10,000&nbsp;Ft for an appointment and x-ray), and physiotherapy also (3000&nbsp;Ft for a half-hour treatment), but check the price with the provider before you confirm the appointment. Outside Budapest you will likely have to speak basic Hungarian to communicate your needs as few doctors will have any English or German skills. Public health care is free for qualifying (insured) people, and is of adequate quality in urban areas. The country has joined the EU, so basic coverage is present for EU citizens, but check before entering the country how far are you insured and what you have to pay for. Do not expect at this time that the local doctor will know the EU rules, prepare to provide info. The European Health Insurance Card is required from EU citizens applying for free treatment under this regulation. Pharmacies are everywhere, you may expect high prices, but good pharmaceutical coverage. Sadly the situation clearly has worsened a lot since early 2010, as many pharmacies can not maintain an adequate reserve of medicines. Another problem might be communicating with the pharmacist as most of them speak only Hungarian. Quite unexpectedly some rusty Latin might come handy. Due to reduced trade between Hungary and andania (as of Dec 2006), some of familiar medications are unavailable—so be prepared to find a substitute in advance. ==Respect== === Names === Uniquely in Europe, Hungary uses the '''Eastern name order''', i.e. the family name precedes the given name. For example, someone named ''Kovács István'' has the family name ''Kovács'' ("Smith") and the given name ''István'' ("Stephen"). However, most Hungarians change their name order when talking or writing in a foreign language, like ''István Kovács''. Foreign names are also kept in the original order (like ''John Travolta''; but for an originally Eastern name, the Eastern order is retained, like for ''Abe Shinzo''). In official documents (and sometimes elsewhere), your name might get changed to the Eastern order. Prepare for misunderstandings, but when in doubt, just ask. Hungarians generally avoid to address people by name whom they do not know well. The general norm is ''Uram'' (Sir) for males or ''Hölgyem/Asszonyom'' (Madam) for females. The title is probably used more often, if known (e.g. ''Igazgató Úr'', "Mr. Director"; or ''Doktor Úr'', "Doctor"). If having to use the surname, it is like ''Kovács úr'' ("Mr. Smith"). Given names are only used between acquintances, or with those who have offered this to you. Don't use them otherwise; it might be considered rude. === General etiquette === Hungarians are generally straightforward communicators. They are quite comfortable with expressing their innermost thoughts and feelings openly, and you can expect them to tell you exactly what they think. Although their directness may come across as blunt, assertive, or even rude to some, it's important to understand that they are not trying to offend or hurt anyone's feelings. They simply believe in being truthful and straightforward in their interactions with others. Hungarians believe in strong familial values and often live with extended family members who provide both financial and emotional support. Therefore, it is important to '''show respect for the elderly'''. Don't use first names (''keresztnév'') unless you've been told to, and compose yourself in a mature fashion around someone older than you. On public transportation, it is obligatory to offer your seat to older people. Talking loudly is generally considered rude. You will notice how most Hungarians tend to keep their voices down in public places. When entering a home, shoes should generally be taken off. === Sensitive issues === * The 1956 Revolution continues to be a sensitive subject with many of the Hungarians, and anti-Russian sentiment used to be high due to the violent suppression of the uprising by the Soviet army. This, however, seems to have faded away, and surprisingly, conservative and right-wing people tend to have a more positive attitude towards Russia. Approval rates of financial support for Ukraine during the Russian invasion are comparatively low, with the government even accused of being pro-Russian – just don't mention the topic if possible, as it is quite controversial. * You are well advised not to discuss the Treaty of Trianon (1920) at all — many Hungarians can take it surprisingly sensitively, even today. * Open display of the Communist red star and hammer and sickle symbol, the Nazi swastika and SS symbols, and the Hungarian fascist Arrow Cross, is prohibited by law. Make sure your clothing does not have these symbols on it, even if it's just a joke. You can be fined for it. * Members of the Roma community may find "Gypsy", or the traditional Hungarian label ''cigány'' (pronounced ''tzigan'') to be offensive; some, however, may even refer to themselves as such. There are also some niche cases; e.g. when used in connection with music, ''cigány'' is used (even officially; e.g. ''Muzsikus cigányok parkja'', "Park of Gypsy Musicians"). As a foreigner, always use ''roma'' at first. * As a rural tradition, Hungarians affectionately refer to themselves as "dancing with tears in our eyes" ("sírva vígad a magyar"), as in a bittersweet resignation to the perceived bad luck in their long history. Avoid mocking Hungarian history and Hungarian patriotism. ==== Political issues ==== As discussed under [[#Politics]], the country used to be run by a right-wing populist party for 16 years, provoking strong emotions from supporters and dissidents. A rule of thumb is that the countryside (this includes non-capital cities) and older voters tend to support the old governing party, while Budapest and younger people tend to oppose it; however, in 2026 surprisingly many small villages were won by the then-opposition, so this should not be taken too literally. As usual while in a foreign country, don't "come out" until you know the others are open to your opinion. It is important to understand that the popularity of Fidesz (which is now steeply declining anyway) does ''not'' mean that Hungarians would be racist, xenophobic, or Russophile in general. In spite of corruption and democratic backsliding, the old government used to enjoy genuine support from a significant part of the population, as they led the country out of the economic crisis of the late 2000s and have done much for the agricultural sector. Residents of small villages often feel that the party is the only one who listens to them, as the old left-oriented opposition has neglected building out networks reaching there. Others vote out of fear induced by state-sponsored media (especially in 2022, when propaganda accused opposition parties for warmongering with Russia). Finally, a complicated election system has turned the party's roughly 50% support into two-thirds of seats in the legislature—in fact, this is why the new government ''also'' has a supermajority now. The point is that as a foreigner, you probably don't understand the entirety of the situation; try not to speak as if you did. Saying that Fidesz supporters are in general "brainwashed" or "xenophobic" oversimplifies things, and branding the entire nation as such will probably be taken as outright offensive even by most other Hungarians. ==== National issues ==== Given Hungary's history of enduring turbulent events, many Hungarians also exhibit sensitivity towards various historical occurrences. You should avoid discussing or bringing up the following topics as they can quickly unsettle people: * '''Hungarian Revolution of 1956''' — the Soviets arrested and killed thousands of Hungarians for revolting against the Hungarian People's Republic, leading to the exodus of nearly a quarter of a million Hungarians. * Anything regarding the '''Hungarian People's Republic''' — thousands of Hungarians were arrested, imprisoned, tortured, exiled, and mistreated by the pro-Soviet communist government. However, some elderly people may have more positive thoughts about the later, comparatively relaxed period; this phenomenon is also referred to as "Kádár nostalgia", referring to the leader installed directly after the revolution. After a peaceful transition, the moderate left-wing successor of the former Communist party used to be one of the major parties until 2010. * '''Hungary's relationship with [[Russia]]''' — although relations have improved since the early 1990s, there is some antipathy and distrust towards Russia in some circles. ===Uncommon customs=== * It's an old tradition that Hungarians do not clink beer glasses or beer bottles. This is due to the legend that Austrians celebrated the execution of the 13 Hungarian Martyrs in 1849 by clinking their beer glasses, so Hungarians vowed not to clink with beer for 150 years. Obviously this time period has expired, but old habits die hard although less so by younger generations. ==Connect== * Broadband Internet access is now widespread in Hungary. It's quite usual to find free Internet access (Wi-Fi) in shopping centers; in Budapest, most cafes and pubs. You'll have Wi-Fi access even in small towns. Look for the "Wi-Fi" signs, you may have to ask for the access password, however, if you consume, it will be freely given. There are 4G coverage in most of the country while 5G is being deployed (July 2024). ==Go next== The land border can be crossed to [[Austria]], [[Slovenia]], [[Croatia]], [[Serbia]], [[Romania]], [[Ukraine]] and [[Slovakia]]. {{geo|47.2|19.2|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|Central Europe}} {{outlinecountry}} o8b6qp92hxjvg9qqjzfqr4byoyzolzu 5288933 5288846 2026-06-06T18:54:37Z ~2026-33513-84 2419183 5288933 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Budaors_banner.jpg|caption=Budaörs, in the hilly Buda suburbs}} '''Hungary''' ([[Hungarian phrasebook|Hungarian]]: ''Magyarország'') is a small landlocked country in central Europe, at a historical crossroads between the [[Balkans]] and the Great Eurasian Steppe. Its capital city, [[Budapest]], boasts [[Habsburg Monarchy|Habsburg]] architecture, and ornate Turkish bathhouses remnant of its [[Ottoman Empire|Ottoman]] past, while its villages preserve strong folk traditions. Straddling the Peri-Carpathian Steppe and the Carpathian Mountains, Hungary offers a diverse range of landscapes—from relatively low mountain ranges and thermal hot springs, to the Great Plain in the east, along with a variety of lakes and rivers. The vast [[Lake Balaton]] is a key destination for Hungary’s warm summers. ==Regions== {{Regionlist |regionmap=Hungary static map.png|regionmapsize=450px| region1name=[[Central Hungary]] | region1color={{StdColor|T1}} | region1items= [[Budapest]] | region1description= The traveller's main entry point. The capital, [[Budapest]], is situated here. | region2name=[[Lake Balaton]] | region2color={{StdColor|T6}} | region2items= [[Siófok]] | region2description=Ten thousands of visitors a year head to [[Siófok]], the unofficial summer capital of Lake Balaton. | region3name=[[Western Transdanubia]] | region3color={{StdColor|T7}} | region3items= [[Szombathely]], [[Győr]] | region3description=Cities with historic downtowns and beautiful castles near the Austrian border. | region4name=[[Northern Hungary]] | region4color={{StdColor|T2}} | region4items= [[Miskolc]], [[Eger]] | region4description=Great historic towns, wine regions and (cave) baths are to be seen here. | region5name=[[Northern Great Plain]] | region5color={{StdColor|T3}} | region5items= [[Debrecen]], [[Szolnok]] | region5description= | region6name=[[Southern Great Plain]] | region6color={{StdColor|T5}} | region6items= [[Szeged]] | region6description= | region7name=[[Central Transdanubia]] | region7color={{StdColor|T8}} | region7items= | region7description= | region8name=[[Southern Transdanubia]] | region8color={{StdColor|T9}} | region8items= | region8description= }} ==Cities== <!-- DO NOT MAKE CHANGES BEFORE DISCUSSION ON TALK PAGE --> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Budapest]]|wikidata=Q1781}} — with green filled parks, interesting museums, and a pulsating nightlife, Budapest is one of Europe's most delightful and enjoyable cities * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Debrecen]]|wikidata=Q79880}} — the second-largest city in the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Győr]]|wikidata=Q134494}} — there are many cafés, restaurants, boutiques, and nightclubs in its lovely baroque city center * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kecskemét]]|wikidata=Q171357}} — a town famous for its vibrant music scene, plum brandy, and Art Nouveau architecture * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Miskolc]]|wikidata=Q102397}} — with the unique cave bath in [[Miskolc-Tapolca]], the third-largest city in the country, located near the Bükk hills * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nyíregyháza]]|wikidata=Q171223}} — a medium-sized city with a busy water resort, museum village, and annual autumn festival * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pécs]]|wikidata=Q45779}} — a pleasant cultural centre and university town * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Szeged]]|wikidata=Q81581}} — the sunniest city in Hungary * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Székesfehérvár]]|wikidata=Q130212}} — former royal seat, famous for its baroque architecture and museums ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Balaton]]|wikidata=Q6383}} &mdash; the major lake of Hungary and the biggest lake in [[Central Europe]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Hortobágy|Hortobágy National Park]]|wikidata=Q61757}} &mdash; Hungary's largest protected area and the largest semi-natural grassland in Europe ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationHungary.png}} {{seealso|Austro-Hungarian Empire}} [[File:Kurultáj - Vágta, 2014.08.09 (3).JPG|250px|thumb|Horsemen in Kurultaj, an annual reenactment festival held in [[Bugac]] on the [[Great Hungarian Plain|Great Plain]]]] Hungary is one of the 15 most popular tourist destinations in the world, with a [[Budapest|capital]] regarded as [http://whc.unesco.org/archive/advisory_body_evaluation/400bis.pdf one of the most beautiful in the world]. Despite its relatively small size, Hungary is home to numerous World Heritage Sites, UNESCO Biosphere reserves, the second largest thermal lake in the world (Lake Hévíz), the largest lake in Central Europe ([[Lake Balaton]]), and the largest natural grassland in Europe ([[Hortobágy]]). In terms of buildings, Hungary is home to the largest synagogue in Europe (the Great Synagogue of Budapest), the largest medicinal bath in Europe (Széchenyi Medicinal Bath), the third largest church in Europe (Esztergom Basilica), the second largest territorial abbey in the world (Pannonhalma Archabbey), the second largest Baroque castle in the world (Gödöllő), and the largest Early Christian Necropolis outside Italy (Pécs). You can expect to find safe food and water, good safety and a generally stable political climate. Hungary has been ethnically diverse since its inception, and while today over 90% of the population are ethnically Hungarian, pockets of ethnic and cultural Slovaks, Romanians, Germans, [[Roma culture in Europe|Romani/Sinti people]] (Gypsies), and others dot the country. Due to the border changes of Hungary after World War I, over 2 million ethnic and cultural Hungarians live in bordering countries, as well. The Hungarians, otherwise known as Magyars, are the descendants of several tribes from Central Asia, who were believed to be fierce, nomadic horsemen and came to Central Europe in the 9th century. '''Roman Catholicism''' is the traditional religion of the Hungarian people (except in the east, where many are '''Calvinists'''), but modern Hungary is largely a secular society, and less than 20% of Hungarians attend church regularly. ===History=== The region of present-day Hungary was inhabited by various peoples, including [[Celts]], [[Roman Empire|Romans]], Huns, Goths, Avars, and Slavs. The Magyars, a Finno-Ugric nomadic tribe led by Árpád, migrated into the Carpathian Basin. This is considered the foundation of the Hungarian nation. Hungary became a powerful European kingdom, as part of the Latin Christian world. It fought against [[Mongol Empire|Mongol invasions]] and later against the [[Ottoman Empire]]. Its defeat at the hands of the Ottomans in 1526 led to a dynastic crisis until the 1848 revolution. From the end of [[World War I]], Hungary lost territory and population, creating deep national trauma. It was allied with Nazi Germany during most of [[World War II in Europe|World War II]], brutally occupied by the Soviets in 1945 and taken over by communists shortly thereafter. It became a scene of an uprising against Soviet rule in 1956 led by Imre Nagy, but it was crushed. It transitioned to a democracy in 1989. It joined NATO in 1999 and the EU in 2004. Between 2010 and 2026, Hungary was ruled by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who weakened the country's ties to NATO and the EU and its democracy. ===Politics=== Since the inauguration of the new government in 2026, the governing party is called '''Tisza''' (''TEE-sah''; portmanteau for ''Party of Respect and Freedom'' in Hungarian, but also alludes to the name of the Tisza River). It commands a supermajority in the new parliament and wows to reverse the direction of the previous government (this includes the possible forced removal of some public officials appointed previously by them). But as so little time has passed since the election, it is yet to tell what exactly is going to happen with the country. Hence, what can be told is mostly about the previous 16-year era, throughout which the governing party was '''Fidesz''' (pronounced ''FEE-dess'')—it still remains as the second-largest bloc. Coming to power as moderate right-wing in 2010, it started to radicalise in around 2015 and is now a textbook example of a right-wing populist party. Having maintained a supermajority almost continuously, they have shaped the country's political landscape like no other force since the end of Communism: they enacted an entirely rewritten constitution in 2012 and have filled nominally neutral institutions (especially state media) with party-loyal functionaries. Hungary is the most corrupt country in the EU, according to the ''Corruption Perception Index'', with EU-funded projects regularly landing at private businesses close to leaders (even family members). There is also speculation about the previous government's possible Russian ties, as they have made large-scale contracts with Russian agencies in the past, most notably that on the expansion of the country's only nuclear power plant. Their stance on the Russo-Ukrainian War is unclear, but after an increase in harsh rhetoric, the party now routinely uses the Ukrainian government as a scapegoat (e.g., by labelling opposing figures as "Ukrainian spies") and often blocks or threatens to block Ukraine-related EU decisions. Having said that, elections are generally considered to be free and fair, and Fidesz has had a support of circa 45–55% in all parliamentary elections from 2010 to 2022, which can be considered a genuine public support (although critics often attribute this to the overwhelming weight of state and quasi-state media)—that support finally fell to 37% in 2026, in contrast to the 55% of Tisza. Hungary is classified as a "flawed democracy" by ''The Economist'', with roughly the same score as the Philippines and better than some other EU member states (e.g., Romania or Croatia). Nevertheless, the country's status was declared to be an "electoral autocracy" by resolution of the European Parliament in September 2022. There is no prosecution for public criticism of the government (many locals regularly do so), and this has not changed since the handover. As a foreigner, you should have no worries at all provided you observe the usual rules you would in any other country: don't come up with political topics out of the blue, and don't voice a strong opinion unless you know your audience is eager to hear it. There have been reports of general anti-foreigner sentiment and racism against people who look ethnically non-European, especially as Fidesz heavily relies on illegal migration as a campaign topic. However, Hungary seems to lie within the average of the former Eastern Bloc in that regard. Probably the most visible signs of the country's strange situation used to be ''propaganda posters'', placed all around the country even outside of campaign periods—it was quite common to have two or even three totally identical ones in the same bus stop! However, such posters have virtually completely disappeared since the handover. === Climate === Temperatures in Hungary vary from -20°C to 39°C through the year. Distribution and frequency of rainfall are unpredictable due to the continental climate of the country. Heavy storms are frequent after hot summer days, and so do more days long still rainfalls in the autumn. The western part of the country usually receives more rain than the eastern part, and severe droughts may occur in summertime. Weather conditions in the Great Plain can be especially harsh, with hot summers, cold winters, and scant rainfall. === Holidays === * '''1 January''' - New Year's Day * '''15 March''' - National Day (commemorating the 1848 Hungarian revolution and independence war against the Austrian Empire) * '''Flexible''' - Good Friday * '''Flexible''' - Easter * '''1 May''' - International Worker's Day * '''Flexible''' - Pentecost * '''20 August''' - State Foundation Day (also known as St. Stephen's Day) * '''23 October''' - National Day (also known as Republic Day) * '''1 November''' - All Saints Day * '''25-26 December''' - Christmas ===Visitor information === *[https://visithungary.com/ Visit Hungary] ==Talk== {{seealso|Hungarian phrasebook}} [[File:2013.09.09 Balaton (3).JPG|thumb|A road sign welcoming passers by to the town of Vonyarcvashegy near [[Keszthely]] in both the current (Roman) and the ancient Hungarian scripts—the latter of which, also called ''rovásírás'' or the "Hungarian runes," is only used ceremonially or as a sign of national pride]] Hungarians are rightly proud of their unique, complex, sophisticated, richly expressive language, '''[[Hungarian]]''' (''Magyar'' pronounced "mohdyohr"). It is a Uralic language most closely related to Mansi and Khanty of western Siberia. It is further sub-classified into the Finno-Ugric languages which include [[Finnish]] and [[Estonian]]; it is not at all related to any of its neighbours: the Slavic, Germanic, and Romance languages belonging to the Indo-European language family. Although Hungarian is related to Finnish and Estonian, it is not mutually intelligible with either of them. While there are some similarities in the vocabulary, the complicated grammar and pronunciation make it one of the most challenging languages for English speakers to learn. However, modern Hungarian is written in the Latin alphabet, which eliminates the need for English speakers to learn a new script. '''English''' is a mandatory subject in schools in Hungary. However, most Hungarians are not fluent in the language, and their level of proficiency is lower than that of many other European countries. Younger generations and people living in Budapest may be able to hold a decent conversation in English but don't expect the same from people in rural areas. It's best not to expect people to speak English at all in rural parts of the country. '''[[German phrasebook|German]]''' is spoken almost as widely as English and is almost universally spoken near the Austrian border, especially in [[Sopron]], which is officially bilingual and has significant contacts with Vienna due to its accessibility by Vienna suburban trains. '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''', which was compulsory in the Communist era, is spoken by a minority of Hungarians. Speaking Russian to Hungarians is a sensitive issue due to the history of unwanted Soviet domination, so be sure to begin the conversation in Hungarian and ask if the person speaks Russian before proceeding, and only use Russian as a last resort. ==Get in== {{Schengen}} Recognised refugees and stateless persons in possession of a valid travel document issued by the government of any one of the above countries/territories are exempt from obtaining a visa for Hungary (but ''no'' other Schengen country, except [[Germany]] and, for refugees, [[Slovakia]]) for a maximum stay of 90 days in a 180-day period. Citizens of [[Antigua and Barbuda]] are permitted to work in Hungary without the need to obtain a visa for the period of their 90-day visa-free stay. However, this ability to work visa-free does not necessarily extend to other Schengen countries. ===By plane=== [[File:Аэродромы и терминалы-перроны и стоянки, Будапешт RP42743.jpg|thumb|Budapest International Airport with old aircraft on display]] Hungary's international airports are '''[http://www.bud.hu/index.nfo?tPath=/english Liszt Ferenc Airport]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' ({{IATA|BUD}}) in [[Budapest]], '''[http://www.airportdebrecen.hu/ Airport Debrecen]{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' ({{IATA|DEB}}) in [[Debrecen]] and '''[http://www.hevizairport.com/ Hévíz–Balaton Airport]''' ({{IATA|SOB}}) in Sármellék. The Hungarian national carrier, '''Malév''' (Hungarian Airlines) was closed down in early 2012. There are also several '''low cost carriers''' operating to Budapest: for example '''[http://www.ryanair.com Ryanair]''', '''[http://www.wizzair.com Wizzair]''', '''[http://www.easyjet.com Easyjet]''' and '''[http://www.eurowings.com Eurowings]'''. ===By train=== [[Budapest]] is an important railway hub for the whole Hungary and large part of eastern Europe, with frequent trains from [[Austria]], [[Germany]], [[Czechia]] and [[Slovakia]]. There are at least one train daily from [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]], [[Croatia]], [[Italy]], [[Romania]], [[Russia]], [[Slovenia]], [[Serbia]], [[Switzerland]] and [[Ukraine]], as well as through cars from [[Poland]] and seasonal through [[sleeping train|sleepers]] from [[Bulgaria]] and [[Montenegro]]. For detailed info see [[Budapest#By_train]]. You can search for international train connections at [http://www.elvira.hu/ official schedule site] of MÁV, national train company, or at [http://www.bahn.de German Railways website] covering almost whole Europe. ===By car=== [[File:H-vignette 2007.jpg|thumb|As in much of Central Europe, motorways are toll roads. Such physical stickers do not exist anymore, however; instead, you need a "virtual sticker" (e-vignette).]] To enter the country, ensure that your International Motor Insurance Card is valid for Hungary (H) along with the Vehicle Registration and a Power of Attorney from the owner if the car is not yours. The border guards are very strict about allowing cars through without these documents (see excepts below). The Hungarian border control is very strict and thorough. They will not hesitate to conduct a full vehicle search if necessary. Entry from Schengen countries (Austria, Slovenia, Slovakia, Croatia) is out of such border control since the abolition of physical borders. All those remain show light control and due to a bilateral agreement Serbian citizens are also no more undergo a strict border control. However you have to take into consideration that from Schengen area you might undergo a so-called inside-customs control wherever moving/driving in the country. Non-Schengen passengers must take into account facing a strict control upon customs prescriptions from Ukraine and Serbia. Coming from Serbia you are allowed to bring 2 packets of cigarettes into Hungary. If you bring more they will take it and fine for €102. Weapons for hunting are allowed to bring in from any EU member state if you have a European Licence. However with possessing that you may not buy or sell your or a new weapon here. The same is the situation with illicit drugs as well. Infringement of these rules may definitely lead to your immediate arrest! Entry from non-Schengen countries can take quite a long time, in particular in the summer months on the weekends when EU-Nationals are returning north along the E75 corridor from Belgrade, Serbia. The wait lines to get through the border have been as long as 7&nbsp;km with a wait time of up to 6 hours. Alternative border points in Hungary or Croatia can be used to by-pass. If you are driving in from an EU country e.g. Austria, you are required to pull over to check with authorities at the border, otherwise, the borders are open and usually the immigration control kiosk are empty. When driving into Hungary, ensure that the border crossing on the route you choose allows the passage of foreigners. Also some smaller crossings close in the afternoon for the night. It is also required to buy a vignette for driving on highways: €20 for 10 days, €30 for a month as of 2024. === By bus === Several international bus lines go in or through Hungary. You can find timetables and book tickets on [http://www.volanbusz.hu/en/ the homepage of Volánbusz], which is the national bus company and also the local Eurolines representation. Alternatively, [http://www.orangeways.com/en Orangeways bus company]{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offer services on routes between Budapest and Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Poland, Romania and Slovakia. Timetables and online booking are available on their website. On the southern border with [[Serbia]] you shouldn't be surprised when there in the bus a collection is being held for a donation to the border-guards, to let the bus pass faster. ===By ship=== It is possible to enter Hungary by international shipping lines on Danube (Duna) or Tisza rivers. There is a scheduled hydrofoil service on the Danube to and from Vienna and Bratislava between May and September operated by '''[https://mahartpassnave.hu/en Mahart.]''' ===From Slovakia=== * You can use the bus no. 91 of the urban traffic company of Bratislava (DPB) going to Čunovo in order to cross between '''Rajka''' (Hungary) and '''Bratislava''' (Slovakia). In Bratislava, the bus has ''Nový most'' as its terminus, and near the Hungarian border you get on/off at the stop ''Čunovské jazerá'' (you need to signal to the driver if you plan to get off at this stop). From Čunovské jazerá it's a four-kilometer-long straight walk through a flat terrain to the town of Rajka, two kilometers on each side of the border. You may detour to visit a monument at the Austrian-Hungarian-Slovakian three country border. ==Get around== === By plane === Hungary has no regular domestic flights. As Budapest lies in the centre of the country and pretty much any point can be reached within three hours by train or bus, there isn't much need for scheduled domestic flights. However there are many opportunities for people with a valid pilot's license to rent a plane and explore by air. === By public transport === There are multiple trip planning websites for Hungarian public transport. To buy tickets, plan between stations, and for international routes use [https://jegy.mav.hu jegy.mav.hu]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. '''[https://emma.mav.hu/#/ Emma]{{Dead link|date=November 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' is the most complete domestic route planner that unifies data from multiple operators. It includes lasti-mile routing, live locations of vehicles, delays and distruptions. You can also use [https://menetrendek.hu menetrendek.hu]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, Google Maps, [https://apps.kde.org/itinerary/ KDE Itinerary] or the [https://play.google.com/store/apps/dev?id=6371723280654935223 MenetBrand android apps] to plan your trip - these all have generally up to date data as well. Some important words in Hungarian that may be helpful are: *“honnan” - from *“hová” - to *“Autóbusz állomás” - bus station *“naponta” - daily *“munkanapokon” - on workdays ==== By train ==== [[File:MÁV 480-001 2011-02-19 Szeged.JPG|thumb|Intercity train in [[Szeged]]]] The Hungarian National Railway is '''[http://www.mav-start.hu/ MÁV]''' and '''[http://www.gysev.hu GYSEV]''' (some lines in the west of the country). The train network is star-shaped (hub-and-spoke), fanning out from the centre at [[Budapest]]. This is caused by history because half of the once complete train system went to the neighbor countries after World War I. If neither the starting or ending point is Budapest, expect to travel for a ''long time'' often with change in Budapest. '''Intercity (IC)''' trains are the fastest, and they're up-to-date, usually well maintained and clean. They link the major cities with Budapest. Expect to pay about 550&nbsp;Ft extra fee independently from the distance for the mandatory seat reservation (not in international ICs, ECs). In some cases the extra charge can be lower. Compared to the majority of Western European ticket prices, Hungary's IC trains are among the cheapest, with an excellent record of speed and comfort. At the '''weekends''' many students use these IC trains to commute between Budapest and other cities, so an early advance booking is recommended on Friday afternoons for the trains leaving Budapest and on Sunday evenings for trains towards Budapest. Working with a notebook is generally safe, unless it's heavy overcrowded. Fast trains ('''Gyors''') are usually older train cars coupled with IC services, but you don't need a seat reservation to use them. Other train lines ('''Személy, Sebes, InterRégió, Zónázó''') usually are not that fast and use older carriages (even in the 1st class). However, quality standards are improving. During the summer, trains linking Balaton to Budapest are often overcrowded with the IC usually being sold out. Pricing depends only on the distance and on the car class. Cash desks assume 2nd class by default for non-IC trains (at least in Budapest for English speakers), so if you didn't catch your IC, consider asking 1st class, paying small extra for much more comfort. Smoking is prohibited on all trains, as well as on the station platforms. Since March 2024, '''people aged 65 and older '''and''' people under 14''' generally travel free of charge. '''People under 26''' receive a 50% discount. The 90% discount for students only applies for those living in and studying in Hungarian institution. ==== Train ticket types ==== Buy tickets and passes for all trains, long-distance buses and HÉV, and some international tickets on '''[https://jegy.mav.hu/ jegy.mav.hu]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' or the MÁV app. '''Regular tickets''' are valid from/to specific stations, but are valid once for any train within 24 hours. '''[https://www.ujtarifa.hu/en#gyik Passes]''' are valid for valid for almost all long-distance and some local services: trains (2nd class), long-distance buses, some local buses, trains, HÉV. These operators accept the passes: * the MÁV-Group: MÁV trains and VOLÁN buses * GYSEV trains * BKK (public transport within Budapest: you can also buy a Hungary or County pass from the BudapestGO app) * local bus operators in Csongrád, Érd, Esztergom * and some small bus companies: G-Busline Kft. (Budapest–Lenti), Trans-Tour 90 Kft. (Budapest–Beregsurány), Trans-Vonal Kft. (Nyíregyháza–Balsa), and Weekendbus Közlekedési Zrt. (Budapest–Csömör). If you have a pass and would like to use local services in a city outside of Budapest, check the local operators' site as your Pass might be valid for all transit, just buses or neither. If you travel on an IC train, you still have to reserve a seat alongside your pass. A '''County Pass''' is valid for 30 days within one county, costs 9450 Ft. A '''Hungary Pass''' is valid for the entire country. If you are planning to visit '''multiple regions''' or take lots of train trips, it might make sense to buy this at 18900 Ft. There is also a nationwide 24-hour pass. It's called '''''Hungary24''''' and costs {{HUF|4999}}. It is possible to use your '''[[Inter Rail|Interrail/Eurail]] pass''' in Hungary. Check whether buying tickets for each journey is cheaper. Most train stations will let you use a debit or credit card. Some stops might be served only by vending machines. A ''gépi menetjegykiadás'' is a staffed cashier desk; ''jegykiadó automata'' is a vending machine. You can buy tickets with euro. It is possible to purchase an international ticket and supplement at every Hungarian railway station which has an international cash desk. Cash desks do not accept euro bank notes of values above €50, and you will get the change in forints. ===== Fines ===== If you boarded at a station without a ticket office or vending machine, you can buy a regular ticket from the conductor. If you boarded at a station where purchasing a ticket was possible, you have to buy a ticket from the conductor and pay a 2600 Ft surcharge. If you boarded at a station within the [https://www.mavcsoport.hu/sites/default/files/upload/travel-offer/document/public/trkp_bp_jn_zona_01-1_2025-02-03_web.pdf Mandatory ticket pre-purchase zone around Budapest], you have to buy a ticket and pay a 25000 Ft fine. This fine isn't fully enforced yet, there is a grace period until 31 Aug 2025. Some lines might operate without a conductor: in this case buy a ticket before boarding. '''Bike transport''' The easiest way to check if you can transport bikes is to check the Bicycle checkmark on emma.mav.hu or jegy.mav.hu when planning a trip. You will have to buy a separate bike ticket (500 Ft) and on very popular lines you might have to reserve a bicycle space as well. '''[http://www.mav-start.hu/english/reisen/transporting_bicycles.php International bike transport]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' on the train also possible on selected trains cost €4-10 (vary), first price to [[Vienna]], the highest to [[Hamburg]] (via [[Berlin]]). List of [http://www.mav-start.hu/utazas/eticket_kioszk.php '''e-ticket acceptance point''']{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}s like a vending machine. Buy the ticket [http://jegyvasarlas.mav-start.hu/eTicketV2/V2/Bejelentkezes.jsp?Lang=EN on the Net]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and find at the station the pre-purchased ticket issuing machine to validate and print your ticket. There are '''[http://www.mav-start.hu/utazas/csomag_orzo.php luggage rooms or lockers]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (Hu: csomagmegörző) in train stations. Lockers cost (since 2010): small 400&nbsp;Ft, or bigger 600&nbsp;Ft per 24hours. More than one day cost 600&nbsp;Ft per each started day. An incomplete list of stations with Luggage rooms or/and lockers: Budapest-Déli, Kelenföld (Budapest), Budapest-Keleti, Budapest-Nyugati, Debrecen, Győr, Miskolc-Tiszai, Nyíregyháza, Siófok, [[Sopron]], [[Szolnok]], [[Szombathely]]. ==== By bus ==== Hungary’s national bus network is operated by the MÁV-Group (previously run by the '''[https://www.volanbusz.hu/en Volán Association]'''). Connections are frequent, and prices are identical to those on non-Intercity trains. Bus lines often are more complete than train lines, but the speed is quite similar. Long-distance buses are clean and safe, but often subject to delays. Buy your ticket at the station ticket desk before boarding; if you do not take your bus at a main station, purchase a ticket from the driver. In Budapest and major cities, make sure that you validate tickets even when buying from the bus driver. The small orange boxes are used for validating tickets and are seen at several points throughout the bus. It is a good idea to reserve your tickets for national holidays, Friday and Sunday evenings beforehand. Online booking is available [https://webelin.volanbusz.hu/belfold/elovetel/xelinmain?lang=en in English]. You can plan your trip with any of the trip planning services mentioned at the beginning of the chapter. '''People aged 65 and older '''and''' people under 14''' generally travel free of charge. Persons between 14 and 25 get 50% discounts. ==== By boat ==== There are several scheduled riverboat and hydrofoil lines operated by [https://mahartpassnave.hu/en MAHART PassNave Ltd.] from the capital city [[Budapest]] to towns in the Danubebend, like [[Szentendre]], [[Visegrád]] and [[Esztergom]], and also a good hydrofoil boat connection operated by the same company between [[Vienna]] and Budapest from May to September. In the capital city there are several sightseeing and night cruises operated by MAHART PassNave Ltd. and other shipping companies, like Legenda Ltd. There are some ferries on Danube and Tisza but their working hours are undependable. You can trust the ferry on Lake Balaton, though, for a modest price. === By car === [[File:Hungary road sign G-401.svg|thumb|Standard speed limits in Hungary]] Aggressive and unpredictable driving and speeds significantly higher than in northern Europe are a constant source of traffic incidents. Traffic lights are not always obeyed. Most roads in Hungary are two-lane, apart from modern motorways. Roads and motorways leading to Budapest are mostly in good shape; however, cracks, potholes and bumpy roads are common on minor roads and in major cities, though they are constantly being repaired. It is usually not difficult to travel by using a map and following road signs. Expressways are not free, but there are no other toll roads or tunnels. A vignette system is used, similar to that in neighboring Austria and Slovakia, but as of 2013 the vignette is stored electronically and checked for using gantries that read licence plate numbers. You can purchase them in intervals of 10 days (called "Weekly vignette"), 1 month, or 1 year. The vignette is very important and it is a good idea to buy it even if you don't plan to use the highway. Control is automatic with video cameras and you will get a high ticket (20,000&nbsp;Ft) automatically without any warning. If you travel by normal roads the speed limit is 90&nbsp;km/h between cities and 50&nbsp;km/h inside, which slows you to the average around 60&nbsp;km/h. Roads often have high traffic (especially main roads like #8 to the west, #6 to the south and #4 to the east). On highways the speed limit is 130&nbsp;km/h, travel is the same as in Germany, and on the inside lane it is very common to have someone speed by you. Expect the Police to use speed traps of all kinds: fixed ones on all motorways which are signed, and mobile ones from bridges, cars standing on the shoulder or behind bushes and trees. Beware that some policemen hide around speed limit signs, especially when the sign visibly useless or if it's extremely slow for the given road type. Police corruption is widespread especially around Budapest (generally 10,000&nbsp;Ft solves usual problems if you don't get arrested for it). When you cross the country from the west to the east (or vice versa), take into account that there are only a few bridges crossing the [[Danube]] outside [[Budapest]]. There are some ferries available though. Outside urban areas, it is a legal requirement to drive with headlights on, even during the day—a requirement that is becoming more common across the EU. Hungary has a policy of zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol. If you are caught driving even after only having a couple of units of alcohol you are most likely to be arrested. ==== Highways ==== [[File:M1 (Hu) Otszogletu kek tabla.svg|thumb|Motorway#1]] There is a fast growing highway network in Hungary (1,480&nbsp;km in total). Each highway starts in Budapest. * M0 - Motorway ring around Budapest. The north-east and south sections are ready. * M1 - connection to [[Győr]], [[Austria]] and [[Slovakia]] (west) * M2 - connection to [[Vác]], planned to reach the border to [[Slovakia]] by 2015 (north) * M3/M30/M35 - connection to [[Miskolc]], [[Debrecen]] and [[Nyíregyháza]] (east) * M5 - connection to [[Serbia]], via [[Kecskemét]] and [[Szeged]] (south-east) * M6/M60 - Connection to [[Dunaújváros]] and [[Pécs]](south) * M7/M70 - connection to [[Lake Balaton]], [[Croatia]] and [[Slovenia]] (south-west) * M4 - connection to [[Romania]] via [[Szolnok]] (east) * M44 - connection between the M5 at [[Kecskemét]] and the Romanian border via [[Békéscsaba]] (east) * M8/M9 - will cross the country (east-west) A single vignette is required to use all highways, except for M0 and short sections around major cities, which are free. Vignettes can be purchased online with bankcard on the official [https://ematrica.nemzetiutdij.hu/en/ web] (and several private online companies, e.g. [https://www.hungary-vignette.eu/en Hungary-vignette] ), at filling stations and at [http://www.motorway.hu/ ÁAK] (State Motorway Management Co.) offices. A 10-day vignette for a passenger car costs 2975&nbsp;Ft during summertime, the 4-day ticket for car has been cancelled. Vignettes are controlled automatically through a camera system. ===By car pool=== The Hungarian [http://oszkar.com oszkar.com social car pool network/website] will allow you to find cheap transport around the country and from (and to) many European cities (especially Vienna, but many German cities are also well "serviced"). In case you're not familiar with the idea: people who travel by car and willing to take passengers post their itinerary. You can hitch a ride by booking it on the website and then contacting the driver, whose contact information the website furnishes you with. People wishing to travel by car pool can also post and hope to be found by a prospective driver. Passengers are expected to contribute to the cost of the trip, but "fares" are typically much lower than bus/coach or rail fares (e.g. as of 2013, a trip from Vienna to Budapest may cost 2,500–6,500&nbsp;Ft). A significant downside is that the site is in Hungarian (although you might be able to navigate it with a service Google Translate) and that booking (but not searching) requires registration, which is free. Drivers as well as passengers can rate each other after trips, much like at auction sites. Drivers are typically young adults (young enough to be familiar with the Internet and old enough to own their own cars); this also means they're slightly more likely to speak a foreign language than the average Hungarian, but you still shouldn't depend on it. Some commercial "shuttle operators" use oszkar.com to offer rides too; their postings are visually distinguishable from "amateur" ones. Oszkar.com is a buyer's market: there are generally many more passenger seats available than passengers. ===By taxi=== {{seealso|Budapest#By taxi}} Inspect the change that taxi drivers give you. Cabbies commonly rip off tourists by giving them change in outdated Romanian currency, which looks similar to Hungarian currency, but is worthless and cannot be redeemed. Ride-hailing is available in Hungary and the following are the most anticipated providers: * {{go | name=Bolt | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-07-09 | content=Works in Budapest, Debrecen and Pécs. }} ==See== Hungary has several [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage sites]]. These are: [[Image:Estibp13.jpg|300px|thumb|right|Buda Castle by night]] * [[Budapest]], including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue * Old Village of [[Hollókő]] and its Surroundings * Caves of [[Miskolc#Further afield|Aggtelek National Park]] — beautiful caves with dripstones and stalagmites * Millenary Benedictine Abbey of [[Pannonhalma#Q936285|Pannonhalma]] and its Natural Environment * [[Hortobágy]] National Park — the Puszta * Early Christian Necropolis of [[Pécs]] (Sopianae) * [[Sopron#Further afield|Fertő Lake]] Cultural Landscape common place with Austria more see there * [[Tokaj]] and '''Villány''' Wine Regions and Historic Cultural Landscapes You can also check the [[National parks in Hungary]] page. Other major tourist destination is [[Lake Balaton]], with winehills, thermal spa in [[Hévíz]], '''Hajdúszoboszló''' and [[Harkány]] around. [[Sopron]] is one of the most popular place for a sightseeing in the region. There are also some amazing things to see. * '''Tiszavirágzás'''. In mid-June the Tisza produces swarms of mayflies which are likened to flowers. Once decimated by pollution, the population is rebounding. (They're famous for living only for 1–2 days.) * '''Busójárás'''. In February the people chase away bad ghosts by loud clamping on streets of '''Mohács'''. ==Do== * '''Birdwatching:''' Hungary has wooded hills, vast fish-pond systems and grasslands, the ''puszta''. Particularly good areas are the [[Kiskunság National Park]], [[Hortobágy]] National Park and the Aggtelek, Bukk and Zemplen Hills. * '''Horse riding:''' Vast areas of open countryside coupled with the long traditions of horsemanship make Hungary an ideal country for riding. Wide open plains in the south and forested hills in the north offer varied riding terrain. * '''Baths:''' Thermal waters abound in Hungary, with over 1000 thermal springs many of which have been turned into baths and spas. The most famous are the [[Budapest#Szchnyi_Spa|Szechenyi baths in Budapest]], but there are hundreds more. The cave baths at [[Miskolc-Tapolca]] and the spa at [[Northern_Hungary#Heves_County|Egerszalók]] are good examples. See also [[Budapest#Baths]], [[Nyíregyháza#Do]], and [http://www.gyogyviz.hu/ogyfi_kulso.htm a selected list] of authorized medicinal waters. * '''Football:''' 12 teams play soccer in the country's top tier, Nemzeti Bajnokság I or NB1; four of them are based in Budapest. The national team play home games at Puskás Aréna in Budapest, completed in 2019. *'''Autosport:''' Watch the '''Formula One Hungarian Grand Prix''' in the July window. It takes place at the Hungaroring circuit in Budapest. The Hungarian Grand Prix is also termed as 'Monaco without the bars/railings'. Book early because it follows the Belgium Grand Prix and people use the wise decision to book the tickets after the fourth race of the season. Hungaroring is also known for its nice scenery outside the race track and for heavy rains at unexpected times. Hungaroring also hosts the second tier racing, third tier racing and other events. * '''Cycling:''' the premier race is the [https://www.tourdehongrie.hu/en Tour de Hongrie] held over four days in May. ==Buy== ===Money=== <!-- {{exchange rate HUF}}--> {{exchange rates | currency=Hungarian forint | currencyCode=Ft | date=January 2026 | USD=325 | EUR=385 | GBP=44 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/huf-hungarian-forint XE.com]}} [[File:Forint-200-500-1000-2000-5000.jpg|right|thumb|350px|Hungarian forint banknotes ''(including the now withdrawn 200 Ft note)'']] The Hungarian currency is the '''forint''', denoted by the symbol "'''Ft'''" (ISO code: '''HUF'''). Notes come in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000 forint; coins are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 two-coloured, similar to €2) and 200 (two-coloured, similar to €1) forint. Euros are now accepted at most hotels and some of the restaurants and shops. Make sure you check the exchange rate, sometimes even well known places (like McDonald's) will exchange at unrealistic rates. Forints are to disappear in the coming years in favour of the euro, but no date has been fixed. You can use major credit cards (EuroCard, Visa) in major shops and larger restaurants, but never expect that without checking first. Small places cannot afford to handle cards. ATMs are available even in small cities, the coverage is good. In Budapest, almost all businesses and services relevant to tourists support card payments. While completing any monetary transactions, it is best to pay in forint when you can. Some restaurants and hotels charge a steep rate for exchanging euros and often due to the fluctuation in forint, cost and services stated may vary drastically. ====Money exchange==== Shopping in Hungary is extremely cheap for people from the euro zone and the US. An exception to this rule is that luxury goods are often at higher prices than would be encountered in Western Europe or the US. Exchange rates for euros and US dollars are roughly the same within central (at least in [[Budapest]] and [[Eger]]). Rates will likely be much worse in airports and large train stations, so only change what you need to reach the city centre. A good habit is to compare the buy and sell rates: if they are drastically different, you're best going somewhere else. Official exchange offices always give a receipt and normally have a large glass between client and a cashier making all steps transparent for clients. Euros are very widely accepted, in hotels, in some splurge restaurants or bars, in some shop (like all SPAR super/hypermarkets, usually at the cashdesk area is a board with the actual rate), or international cash desk of course the rates five even ten percent worse than in the banks and be prepared for the change they will get back in forint. Try using small notes (max. 50), at international cash desk can even pay also with coins and the rate is ok. Traded currencies at the two biggest Hungarian bank [https://www.kh.hu/publish/kh/hu/lakossag/arfolyamok_kondiciok.html K&H Bank]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}: AUD, CAD, CHF, CZK, DKK, EUR, GBP, JPY, NOK, PLN, SEK, USD; [https://www.otpbank.hu/portal/en/Rates/CashandFX OTP Bank]: same as K&H plus BGN, RUB and accepted Euro or Amex travellers cheques (commission). Smaller banks like [https://www.raiffeisen.hu/en/web/english/home Raiffeisen Bank]{{Dead link|date=December 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (for CZK), [http://www.oberbank.hu/OBK_webp/OBK/oberbank_hu/index.jsp Oberbank]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (for CHF) or [http://www.sberbank.hu/en/private.html Sberbank]{{Dead link|date=March 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (for RUB) giving better rates, but not change so many currencies (need to check as it is variable). For your remaining forints, buying euros, US dollars and Swiss francs is always available, but others only when in stock. More unusual currencies, such as Israeli shekels, Hong Kong dollars, or Ukrainian hryvnia, can only be exchanged at money changers. If you arrive in Hungary at weekends, holidays or evening banks are closed only ATMs or money changer shops or some hotels (mostly the biggers). ATMs and banks can be found in hypermarkets. If you arrive at Budapest Ferihegy Airport late at night or on state holidays changing money is possible as there are five [http://www.bud.hu/english/passengers/shopping_and_gastronomy/services/interchange-8182.html interchange]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} money changer offices. Opening times vary: from morning to around midnight, and one is open 24 hours a day. There is an ATM in the arrival hall at Budapest Ferihegy, and the rates for using ATMs with a card are often better than the bureau de change. Also Interchange has booths at Déli (one), Keleti (three), Nyugati (one) Railway stations. These are open daily from 07:00 or earlier to 20:50-23:30. Locations and opening time [https://interchange.eu/branch/location/hungary/ here]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. In the city centre of Budapest at #2 Vörösmarty square ([[File:BKV m 1 jms.svg|15px]]:Vörösmarty tér) branch is open 24 hours a day. There are many ATMs in Budapest which will accept European and North American debit or credit cards. Be aware that "Euronet" ATMs will typically charge 2000–2500 HUF in addition to any charges your own bank may apply, whereas ATMs operated by banks (e.g. OTP Bank, Raiffeisenbank) don't add extra charges. Visitors report that unofficial money changers operating near an official money changing booth offer unfavourable rates and recommend using the official exchange offices. Such exchangers are illegal and there is the possibility that you will receive something other than Hungarian currency or nothing at all. ===Tipping=== [[Tipping|Tips]] (''borravaló'') are given in Hungary for some services: in restaurants, in bars, to taxi drivers, to hairdressers, and often to people that fix things around the house, like plumbers and electricians. Although not legally required, social norms encourage that tips are given. 10% is usually enough. Check your receipt before you pay, because some bars and restaurants charge a 10% service fee (szervizdíj), in this case tipping is not expected. ===Shopping=== Apart from classic tourist souvenirs such as postcards and trinkets, here are some things unique to Hungary or just hard to find elsewhere. ==== Hungarian foods ==== [[File:Almog 9 Budamarket.jpg|thumb|Paprika and garlic products for sale]] * '''Duck and goose liver''' * '''Salamis''' - products of [http://herz.hu/ Hertz], Picks are the best, try Winter salami (Hu: Téliszalámi) * '''Sweets''' Chocolates with fruit Brandy, Szamos Marzipan dessert, Praline with Truffle, szaloncukor, literally: "parlour candy", is a popular sweet at Christmas. * '''Cold-smoked sausages''' - Mangalica and grey beef specials * '''Herbal Teas''' * '''Truffle Products''' - Honeys, Jams * '''Spices''': Paprika and Hungarian Saffron * '''Gundel set of cheese''': aged in Gundel wines or with walnut pieces or seasonings. Most easily found in 350 g sets of three kinds in duty-free of Ferihegy Airport in [[Budapest]] (at least in Terminal 2), but is likely available in Gundel 1894 Food & Wine Cellar (see [[Budapest/Pest#Gundel|Pest#Eat]]). Keep in mind that shelf life for this cheese is only 2 months. ====Hungarian beverages ==== * '''Champagnes''' * '''Wines''': the vineries of Badacsony, Tokaj, Villány have the best products, but when purchasing wine beyond the right kind and vintage is also important the wine rack. The wrought iron with wine leaves is very showy, but if you are traveling by plane difficult to transport, so maybe a wood is more practical and you can buy a wide range of it. Other good names are: Somlói Juhfark, Egri Bikavér (see Liquor), Kadarka, red wine from Villány area etc. * '''Pálinka''': very famous and strong brandy made from fruits. * '''Unicum''': a herbal digestif liqueur. ==== Others ==== [[File:Ceramic house, palinka flasks in Gyenesdiás, 2016 Hungary.jpg|thumb|Porcelain palinka bottles]] * '''Black pottery''' - part of the Transdanubian folk art * '''Porcelain''' - look for high quality handmade Herend and Zsolnay products, usually sell them in set, simple candle holders are much cheaper and also popular * Herend '''majolica''' at more affordable prices than the classic Herend. * '''Hungarian Cuisine book''' (English, German, French, Spanish, Italian) * 'matyó' patterned wooden spoons, ceramic of Sárospatak spoon holder * '''Embroideries''' such as patterned of Kalocsa or Matyó. * '''Blueprinted textiles''' mostly linen or cotton materials * '''Diamonds''' in handmade white gold, platinum inlaid jewellery, try your luck at [[Szentendre]] the Europe’s largest diamond & jewellery centre * '''Handicrafts and decorative arts''' works decorated with traditional, Hungarian folk motifs (letter-paper envelope sets, greeting cards, handkerchiefs, napkins, tablecloths, pillows, towels) * The '''Rubik's cube''' originated in Hungary and was invented in 1974 by Erno Rubik and is one example of its longstanding gaming tradition. ==Eat== Main courses in menu are normally 3000–5000&nbsp;Ft in touristy places in Budapest, 2000–3000&nbsp;Ft outside it, or in towns like [[Eger]] and [[Szentendre]]. A two-course lunch with a soft drink in [[Budapest]] typically costs 3000–10000&nbsp;Ft per person, and half or third of that outside [[Budapest]]. A Chinese fast food menu is around 1500&nbsp;Ft. (updated Jan 2023) In restaurants, a service charge is frequently included into bill, 10% or even 12%, but this has to be clearly pointed out on the menu. If it's not mentioned, the place has no right to include a service charge in the bill. Even if there's no service charge, unless the service was preposterous most Hungarians tend to leave a tip of 10% minimum. Unlike in most western countries, tip is usually not left on the table but rather the amount is specified to the waiting staff when you pay. There were some places, mainly in the centre of Pest, that try to rip off drunk tourists at night by charging ridiculously high prices for drinks. Most of these places are closed now, but it's still a good idea to always check the prices before ordering. Common in major cities and next to the highways are branches of major international chains such as [http://kfc.hu/en/ KFC], [http://www.mcdonalds.hu/ McDonald's], [http://www.burgerking.hu/ettermek/ Burger King]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://www.subwayhungary.com/hu/page_restaurant_locator.html Subway]{{Dead link|date=August 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://www.pizzahut.hu/etterem_kereso/ Pizza Hut]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}and [http://www.fridays.hu/ TGI Friday's]{{Dead link|date=August 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} last two just in Budapest. ===Cuisine=== [[Image:Szentendre Goulash.JPG|thumb|A fancy serving of ''gulyás'' soup]] [[File:2009-09-gulasch-pörkölt-paprikas-1.jpg|thumb|'''Pörkölt''' (is a meat stew which originates from Hungary) and '''Nokedli''' (a pasta, used as side dish)]] Hungarians are quite proud of their cuisine (''Magyar konyha''), and most of the time not without reason. Food is usually spicy, but not hot by general standards, and it's tasty rather than healthy: many dishes are prepared with lard or deep-fried. The national spice is '''paprika''', made from ground sweet bell peppers. * {{eat | name=Goulash | alt=pörkölt | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q205762 | lastedit=2023-12-03 | content=The national dish is '''goulash''' but Hungarians call the thick paprika-laden stew known as goulash elsewhere by the term ''pörkölt'' and reserve the term ''gulyás'' for a lighter paprika-flavoured soup. }} Meat is popular, especially pork (sertés), beef (marha) and venison (őz). Less common are lamb and mutton. Chicken (csirke) and turkey (pulyka) are common, and you will also find game birds excellent in smarter restaurants and country areas: pheasant (fácán), partridge (fogoly) and duck (kacsa). Goose is also quite popular in Hungary. While tourists gorge on '''goose liver''' (''libamáj''), still cheap by Western standards, probably the most common dish is ''sült libacomb'', '''roast goose leg'''. The best fish in Hungary are river fish: carp (ponty), zander (fogas/süllő) and catfish (harcsa), though many restaurants will serve fish from far away. Another typical Hungarian fish meal is roasted hake (sült hekk). Less well known in the rest of the world are '''csirke paprikás''', chicken stew in paprika sauce, and '''halászlé''', paprika fish soup often made from carp. Stuffed (''töltött'') vegetables of all kinds are also popular, and Hungarian pancakes ('''palacsinta'''), both savoury and sweet, are a treat. Common snacks include '''kolbász''', a Hungarianised version of the Polish ''kielbasa'' sausage, and '''lángos''', deep-fried dough with a variety of toppings (mostly sour cream, cheese, or garlic). A typical Hungarian meal will involve soup, often like a consommé (erőleves), meat with potatoes (burgonya) and a side salad, and a dessert such as pancakes (palacsinta). A meal is almost always, even at breakfast, accompanied by Hungarian '''pickles''' called ''savanyúság'', literally "sourness". These are often dubbed ''saláta'' on menus, so order a ''vitamin saláta'' if you want fresh vegetables. Starch is most often served as potatoes, rice or dumplings (''galuska'' or ''nokedli''). The primary Hungarian contribution in this field is an unusual type of small couscous-like pasta called ''tarhonya''. It is worth visiting a "cukrászda" if you are in Hungary. These are very popular with delicious cakes and coffee. Try the traditional krémes (with vanilla cream), eszterházy (lots of nuts) or somlói galuska. Another favourite is '''lángos''', which is deep-fried bread served served with various fillings. The most common is plain, with salt, garlic (fokhagyma) and soured cream (tejföl). If you do come across a lángos stand, there are usually a large number of options from pizza lángos, or eggs with mayonnaise or Nutella and bananas. ===Vegetarian food=== Vegetarians and vegans will have about as much ease eating out as in any other western country. [[Budapest]] is not a problem, as there is a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, but in an ordinary Hungarian restaurant the non-meat mains on the menu are pretty much limited to ''rántott sajt'' (fried cheese) and ''gombafejek rántva'' (fried mushrooms), but some places will avoid meat for your order if asked. Italian food is popular, so as long as you don't mind a pasta heavy diet as a vegetarian you will find a wider choice. For self-catering, the selection of fruits and vegetables from supermarkets or local shops and market is quite good, especially in summer. There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, and a lot of health food stores that offer all sorts of vegetarian/vegan products, including cosmetics. ==Drink== ===Wine=== [[Image:Wine regions Hungary.svg|right|thumb|350px|Hungary has several famous vine regions, most known are No.5 '''Badacsony''', No.20 [[Eger]], No.13 [[Szekszárd]], No.22 [[Tokaj]], No.15 '''Villány'''. Prices are reasonable.]] [[Image:Villany, wine.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Hills, grape plantations and wine cellars near '''Villány''', southern Hungary.]] <!-- NOTE TO EDITORS: This is a short summary for "Egri Bikavér", which should be described fully in [[Eger#Drink]]. Please update information there as a primary description; add only most essential details here. --> * '''Egri Bikavér''' (Bull's Blood of Eger) (1000&nbsp;Ft for a good one) is a strong red Hungarian wine which supposedly saved a clever Hungarian girl from her fate with a Turkish sultan. During the time of the Turkish occupation, it is said a young girl was summoned to become a member of the local sultan's harem. Not wanting this fate for his daughter, her father gave her a bottle of Egri Bikavér to take to the sultan. He told her to tell the ruler it was bull's blood, and would make him invincible. The sultan, being Muslim, was unaccustomed to alcohol, and proceeded to pass out, leaving the daughter unharmed. There is another story connected to why Bull's Blood is called so, and it also comes from the Turkish era. According to that one, the defenders of the different castles used to drink this red wine. When they saw the color on the mouths of the Hungarians, they thought that it must have been from a bull, thus the name. * '''Tokaj''' is known for its sweet dessert wines (''Tokaji aszú''), (2000–6000&nbsp;Ft) which acquire their distinctive taste from grapes infected by the "noble rot" ''Botrytis cinerea''. The favorite tipple of aristocracy, past fans of Tokaji include Louis XIV (who called Tokaj as "''The king of the wines, the wine of the kings''"), Beethoven, Napoleon III and Peter the Great &mdash; which is still reflected in the steep pricing of the best varieties. Almost uniquely among white wines, Tokaj keeps well for a long time. Hungarian wine, including champagne ("pezsgő"), is quite likely to be sweet ("Édes" or "félédes"). If dry wine is your preference, look for the word "Száraz" on the label. When buying bottled wine, don't bother with types cheaper than 600–700&nbsp;Ft, as they are usually very low quality (maybe not even produced from grapes). In wine cellars high quality may be available at surprisingly low prices. ===Liquor=== In Hungarian, '''pálinka''' denotes strong brandy-like liquor distilled from fruit. ''Pálinka'' is a very social drink: just as the English drink tea, the Hungarians, especially in rural areas, will offer ''pálinka'' to guests upon arrival. The best-known varieties are ''barackpálinka'', made from apricots, ''körtepálinka'' from pears, and ''szilvapálinka'' made from plums. Factory-made ''pálinka'' is widely available, but keep an eye out for homemade ''házipálinka''. Pálinkas usually contain around or above 50% of alcohol, often more for the homemade ones. Pálinka bottles marked ''mézes'' will be heavily sweetened with honey. (3000&nbsp;Ft for something good) '''Unicum''' is a strong ''digestif'' made from a secret mix of over 40 herbs. It comes in striking black bottles emblazoned with a red and white cross, and has a very strong and unusual taste. ''Unicum Next'' has a lighter, citrusy flavor, and is rather more palatable. Definitely worth trying, the spherical bottle (affectionately called "the Holy Hand Grenade") itself may also be used for decoration, and keeps very well for a long time. It is available in every bar in Hungary but it is rare to see someone drinking it. ===Beer=== Hungarian beer is quite average compared to other Central European countries like Germany and the Czech Republic as it has long been a wine culture. The most common beers are Dreher, Szalon, Borsodi, Soproni and Arany Ászok, available in the styles ''világos'' (lager) and ''barna'' (brown). All of Hungarian breweries are owned and managed by international brands such as: Dreher Sörgyár (Budapest); Heineken Hungaria (Sopron and Martfű); Heineken; Borsodi Sörgyár (Bőcs); Pécsi Sörfőzde (Pécs); Ottakinger. They cost 200–300&nbsp;Ft at a store and 400–600&nbsp;Ft at a bar. Some expensive club can charge up to 900 in Budapest. Imported beers like Pilsner Urquell, Staropramen and Budweiser-Budvar (the original Czech variety) are widely available in bars and markets for not much more than the ubiquitous Hungarian brands. When offering a toast with beer, be warned that most Hungarians will politely refuse. This is due to an old tradition due to remembering soldiers executed by the Habsburgs of Austria in the 1848 revolution, whereby it was decreed no Hungarian would toast with beer for 150 years. It's been so long, however, that most Hungarians no longer know the origins of this tradition or that they've been free to make toasts over beer for the past ten years. ===Coffee=== Cafe culture is widespread in Hungary, although it may never recover the romance of its turn-of-the-century intellectual heyday. Unless asked, it's a good idea to specify what kind of coffee you prefer. The word ''kávé'' means the strong, espresso-like coffee, although American-style coffee, known as ''hosszú kávé'' in Hungarian, usually translated as "long coffee", is also available at most places. ===Tea=== Tea houses are becoming popular in cities, especially among the young. There is a growing number of tea houses, mainly in [[Budapest]] and some bigger cities where people can buy several types of loose tea. The best teas are herbal and fruit varieties. In restaurants and cafes, lemon juice is frequently served in a small bottle. However, in traditional restaurants or cafes good teas are hard to find as coffee are preferred. ==Sleep== ===Hostels=== Very good rated hostels cost about €9–22 per night. The lower prices you usually get during week-days and in low season. (updated July 2022) ===Farmhouses=== '''Village Tourism''' is popular and very well developed in Hungary, and can be a remarkable experience. Start your research with ''1Hungary'' [http://www.1hungary.com/info/hungary/], ''National Federation of Rural and Agrotourism'' [http://www.fatosz.hu/11-5115.html]{{Dead link|date=October 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and ''Centre of Rural Tourism'' [http://www.falutur.hu/]. Near Budapest it is also possible to find rural houses to rent, for instance the ''Wild Grape Guesthouse'' [http://www.travelfever.org/]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, what makes a good combination to explore the capital and a National Park while staying at the same accommodation. ===Camping=== There are campgrounds available. See the city guides, including the [[Budapest]] guide. ==Learn== Hungary is a country known for its rich academic tradition and cultural diversity, where education is highly valued. It boasts 13 Nobel laureates, numerous inventors, artists, and scientists, and is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. Despite facing many historical challenges and transformations, Hungarians strongly believe in the power of knowledge to preserve their identity and sovereignty. This unwavering commitment to education and innovation has made Hungary a member of the European Union and a leader in several fields of science and technology. Hungarian universities are open to all foreign students. Many European exchange students come through the EU's Erasmus program. There are quite a lot students from Asia and the Middle East as well, particularly because despite the high standard of education, fees are still considerably lower than in the more developed Western European countries. Those interested should visit Study in Hungary [http://www.studyhungary.hu/] or University of Debrecen [http://www.ud-mhsc.org/] websites. [http://studyuniversity.info/map/direct/73 Map of Hungarian universities and colleges]{{Dead link|date=April 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. ==Work== It could be very difficult for an individual to seek legal employment in Hungary because of the complexity, cost and time involved. Most foreign workers in Hungary have received their visas and other necessary documents through the company they are employed by. It is hoped, however, that since the joining of Hungary to the EU a reduction will follow in the amount of red tape involved. Citizens of Antigua and Barbuda are permitted to work in Hungary without the need to obtain a visa for the period of their 90 day visa-free stay. However, this ability to work visa-free does not necessarily extend to other Schengen countries. Many students, usually on a gap year, work as second language teachers at one of Budapest's many language schools. A qualification is required (ESL/TEFL/TESOL) and experience is preferred. One option is to teach through the Central European Teaching Program. For a placement fee they will take care of paperwork and set you up in a school in Hungary teaching English on a local salary. Contracts are for one semester or a whole school year. Qualified ESL/EFL teachers can find employment in Hungary at private language schools which offer better rates of pay and without having to pay a placement fee. See also [[Budapest#Work|Work section in Budapest article]]. ==Stay safe== [[File:Budapest bei Nacht Pestseite.jpg|thumb|Budapest by night]] Hungary in general is a very safe country. However, petty crime in particular remains a concern, just like in any other country. Watch your bags and pockets on public transport. There is a danger of [[pickpockets]]. Passports, cash and credit cards are common targets of thieves. Keep items that you do not store in your hotel safe or residence in a safe place, but be aware that pockets, purses and backpacks are especially vulnerable, even if closed. There are also reported cases of people who got their baggage stolen while sleeping on the train. Generally, Hungary is rather quiet during the night compared to other European countries, and crime to tourists is limited to pickpocketing, and [[common scams|cheating on prices and bills and taxi fares]]. Everyone is required to carry their passport and ID card. Not doing so lead to trouble with the police. The police generally accept a colour copy of your passport. The police force is professional and well trained, but most hardly speak any English. See the Budapest travel guide for more specific and valuable information about common street scams and tourist traps in Hungary. Despite the government's controversial rhetoric regarding immigration, most Hungarians are not racist or xenophobic, and Budapest does have a small yet vibrant immigrant community. With that said, you might want to avoid living in rural areas if you are not white. === Driving conditions === The majority of Hungarians drive dangerously and had 739 deaths on the roads in 2010. This is largely due to careless driving habits. Many drivers do not observe the speed limits and you should be extra careful on two-way roads where local drivers pass each other frequently and allow for less space than you may be used to. Car seats are required for infants. Children under age 12 may not sit in the front seat. Seat belts are mandatory for everyone in the car. You may not turn right on a red light. The police issues tickets for traffic violations and issue on the spot fines. In practice the laws are widely ignored. Also, Hungarian laws have '''zero tolerance''' to drink and drive, and the penalty is a severe fine. It means no alcoholic beverage is allowed to be consumed if driving, '''no blood alcohol of any level is acceptable.''' Failure to pay fines may result in your passport getting confiscated, or even a jail term until or unless you pay the fine. More importantly, the police stops vehicles regularly for document checks. You shouldn't worry when you are stopped because by law, everyone needs to have their identification papers checked. Hungary has some of the harshest penalties for those involved in a car accident. Involvement in a car accident results in a fine, and maybe a prison sentence from 1 year to 5 years (depending on the aggravating circumstances). ==Stay healthy== Food and water is generally safe, even in remote villages. It is safe to drink '''[[tap water]]''' anywhere, even in remote areas, however, due to the cleaning process the taste of the water can be really unpleasant. Best idea is to try before changing to the bottled water. Bottled waters has a large selection, both the fizzy (blue bottle cap) and still (red/pink bottle cap) water and it is cheap (starts from less than 100&nbsp;Ft for 1.5 litre). The only notable exception of the drinking water are trains where the tap water is not drinkable and other places where tap water is labeled as such. It is widely available and good practice to have with you a bottle during hot summer. Private health care providers are high quality, but limited in scope once outside Budapest. Dentistry is cheaper here than in Western Europe (8000–10,000&nbsp;Ft for an appointment and x-ray), and physiotherapy also (3000&nbsp;Ft for a half-hour treatment), but check the price with the provider before you confirm the appointment. Outside Budapest you will likely have to speak basic Hungarian to communicate your needs as few doctors will have any English or German skills. Public health care is free for qualifying (insured) people, and is of adequate quality in urban areas. The country has joined the EU, so basic coverage is present for EU citizens, but check before entering the country how far are you insured and what you have to pay for. Do not expect at this time that the local doctor will know the EU rules, prepare to provide info. The European Health Insurance Card is required from EU citizens applying for free treatment under this regulation. Pharmacies are everywhere, you may expect high prices, but good pharmaceutical coverage. Sadly the situation clearly has worsened a lot since early 2010, as many pharmacies can not maintain an adequate reserve of medicines. Another problem might be communicating with the pharmacist as most of them speak only Hungarian. Quite unexpectedly some rusty Latin might come handy. Due to reduced trade between Hungary and andania (as of Dec 2006), some of familiar medications are unavailable—so be prepared to find a substitute in advance. ==Respect== === Names === Uniquely in Europe, Hungary uses the '''Eastern name order''', i.e. the family name precedes the given name. For example, someone named ''Kovács István'' has the family name ''Kovács'' ("Smith") and the given name ''István'' ("Stephen"). However, most Hungarians change their name order when talking or writing in a foreign language, like ''István Kovács''. Foreign names are also kept in the original order (like ''John Travolta''; but for an originally Eastern name, the Eastern order is retained, like for ''Abe Shinzo''). In official documents (and sometimes elsewhere), your name might get changed to the Eastern order. Prepare for misunderstandings, but when in doubt, just ask. Hungarians generally avoid to address people by name whom they do not know well. The general norm is ''Uram'' (Sir) for males or ''Hölgyem/Asszonyom'' (Madam) for females. The title is probably used more often, if known (e.g. ''Igazgató Úr'', "Mr. Director"; or ''Doktor Úr'', "Doctor"). If having to use the surname, it is like ''Kovács úr'' ("Mr. Smith"). Given names are only used between acquintances, or with those who have offered this to you. Don't use them otherwise; it might be considered rude. === General etiquette === Hungarians are generally straightforward communicators. They are quite comfortable with expressing their innermost thoughts and feelings openly, and you can expect them to tell you exactly what they think. Although their directness may come across as blunt, assertive, or even rude to some, it's important to understand that they are not trying to offend or hurt anyone's feelings. They simply believe in being truthful and straightforward in their interactions with others. Hungarians believe in strong familial values and often live with extended family members who provide both financial and emotional support. Therefore, it is important to '''show respect for the elderly'''. Don't use first names (''keresztnév'') unless you've been told to, and compose yourself in a mature fashion around someone older than you. On public transportation, it is obligatory to offer your seat to older people. Talking loudly is generally considered rude. You will notice how most Hungarians tend to keep their voices down in public places. When entering a home, shoes should generally be taken off. === Sensitive issues === * The 1956 Revolution continues to be a sensitive subject with many of the Hungarians, and anti-Russian sentiment used to be high due to the violent suppression of the uprising by the Soviet army. This, however, seems to have faded away, and surprisingly, conservative and right-wing people tend to have a more positive attitude towards Russia. Approval rates of financial support for Ukraine during the Russian invasion are comparatively low, with the government even accused of being pro-Russian – just don't mention the topic if possible, as it is quite controversial. * You are well advised not to discuss the Treaty of Trianon (1920) at all — many Hungarians can take it surprisingly sensitively, even today. * Open display of the Communist red star and hammer and sickle symbol, the Nazi swastika and SS symbols, and the Hungarian fascist Arrow Cross, is prohibited by law. Make sure your clothing does not have these symbols on it, even if it's just a joke. You can be fined for it. * Members of the Roma community may find "Gypsy", or the traditional Hungarian label ''cigány'' (pronounced ''tzigan'') to be offensive; some, however, may even refer to themselves as such. There are also some niche cases; e.g. when used in connection with music, ''cigány'' is used (even officially; e.g. ''Muzsikus cigányok parkja'', "Park of Gypsy Musicians"). As a foreigner, always use ''roma'' at first. * As a rural tradition, Hungarians affectionately refer to themselves as "dancing with tears in our eyes" ("sírva vígad a magyar"), as in a bittersweet resignation to the perceived bad luck in their long history. Avoid mocking Hungarian history and Hungarian patriotism. ==== Political issues ==== As discussed under [[#Politics]], the country used to be run by a right-wing populist party for 16 years, provoking strong emotions from supporters and dissidents. A rule of thumb is that the countryside (this includes non-capital cities) and older voters tend to support the old governing party, while Budapest and younger people tend to oppose it; however, in 2026 surprisingly many small villages were won by the then-opposition, so this should not be taken too literally. As usual while in a foreign country, don't "come out" until you know the others are open to your opinion. It is important to understand that the popularity of Fidesz (which is now steeply declining anyway) does ''not'' mean that Hungarians would be racist, xenophobic, or Russophile in general. In spite of corruption and democratic backsliding, the old government used to enjoy genuine support from a significant part of the population, as they led the country out of the economic crisis of the late 2000s and have done much for the agricultural sector. Residents of small villages often feel that the party is the only one who listens to them, as the old left-oriented opposition has neglected building out networks reaching there. Others vote out of fear induced by state-sponsored media (especially in 2022, when propaganda accused opposition parties for warmongering with Russia). Finally, a complicated election system has turned the party's roughly 50% support into two-thirds of seats in the legislature—in fact, this is why the new government ''also'' has a supermajority now. The point is that as a foreigner, you probably don't understand the entirety of the situation; try not to speak as if you did. Saying that Fidesz supporters are in general "brainwashed" or "xenophobic" oversimplifies things, and branding the entire nation as such will probably be taken as outright offensive even by most other Hungarians. ==== National issues ==== Given Hungary's history of enduring turbulent events, many Hungarians also exhibit sensitivity towards various historical occurrences. You should avoid discussing or bringing up the following topics as they can quickly unsettle people: * '''Hungarian Revolution of 1956''' — the Soviets arrested and killed thousands of Hungarians for revolting against the Hungarian People's Republic, leading to the exodus of nearly a quarter of a million Hungarians. * Anything regarding the '''Hungarian People's Republic''' — thousands of Hungarians were arrested, imprisoned, tortured, exiled, and mistreated by the pro-Soviet communist government. However, some elderly people may have more positive thoughts about the later, comparatively relaxed period; this phenomenon is also referred to as "Kádár nostalgia", referring to the leader installed directly after the revolution. After a peaceful transition, the moderate left-wing successor of the former Communist party used to be one of the major parties until 2010. * '''Hungary's relationship with [[Russia]]''' — although relations have improved since the early 1990s, there is some antipathy and distrust towards Russia in some circles. ===Uncommon customs=== * It's an old tradition that Hungarians do not clink beer glasses or beer bottles. This is due to the legend that Austrians celebrated the execution of the 13 Hungarian Martyrs in 1849 by clinking their beer glasses, so Hungarians vowed not to clink with beer for 150 years. Obviously this time period has expired, but old habits die hard although less so by younger generations. ==Connect== * Broadband Internet access is now widespread in Hungary. It's quite usual to find free Internet access (Wi-Fi) in shopping centers; in Budapest, most cafes and pubs. You'll have Wi-Fi access even in small towns. Look for the "Wi-Fi" signs, you may have to ask for the access password, however, if you consume, it will be freely given. There are 4G coverage in most of the country while 5G is being deployed (July 2024). ==Go next== The land border can be crossed to [[Austria]], [[Slovenia]], [[Croatia]], [[Serbia]], [[Romania]], [[Ukraine]] and [[Slovakia]]. {{geo|47.2|19.2|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|Central Europe}} {{outlinecountry}} 17qqlb9b3j7j2vagrfeyca4a8avae0t 0 15886 5288839 5272688 2026-06-06T12:26:35Z Enes Stone 2418954 Added the official fixed-fare airport-transfer alternatives (Havaİst buses, M11 metro) and the official-rank/meter rule for IST and SAW, which the taxi advice doesn't currently cover; src: official Istanbul transport operators + UK FCDO Turkey advice 5288839 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Istanbul Banner.jpg|dotm=yes}} {{printDistricts}} '''Istanbul''' ([[Turkish phrasebook|Turkish]]: ''İstanbul'') is a very large city of fantastic history, culture and beauty. Called '''Byzantium''' in ancient times, the city's name was changed to '''Constantinople''' in 324 CE when it was rebuilt by the first Christian Roman Emperor, Constantine. The name "Istanbul", perhaps surprisingly, comes from Greek and could be translated as a corruption of "to the city". While the term had been in widespread use for centuries, it only became the official name of the city upon the foundation of the Republic of Turkey in the 1920s. [[File:Hagia Sophia (228968325).jpeg|thumb|350px|Hagia Sophia is among the top 10 most visited places on earth]] The most populous city in [[Europe]], Istanbul forms the financial and cultural center of [[Turkey]] and confidently straddles the borders between [[Asia]] and Europe as it has for millennia: this is the result when you mix ancient Christendom, a medieval metropolis and the modern Middle East. Situated on either side of the Bosphorus, Istanbul retains its metropolitan status: the city's population is more than 14 million people, making it one of the largest cities in the world. Lauded in antiquity as "the second Rome", this is a city where you most certainly should ''roam'' — culture and excitement lie around every corner and more than 2,000 years of history await you. == Districts == {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|stroke-opacity=0.1|wikidata=Q732923|fill=#FF0000|title=[[Istanbul/Historical Peninsula|Historical Peninsula]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|stroke-opacity=0.1|wikidata=Q217411|fill=#0000FF|title=[[Istanbul/Galata|Galata]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|stroke-opacity=0.1|wikidata=Q857107,Q459495|fill=#008000|title=[[Istanbul/European Bosphorus|European Bosphorus]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|stroke-opacity=0.1|wikidata=Q673073|fill=#008080|title=[[Istanbul/Golden Horn|Golden Horn]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|stroke-opacity=0.1|wikidata=Q390637,Q284489|fill=#800080|title=[[Istanbul/New City|New City]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|stroke-opacity=0.1|wikidata=Q840258,Q794356,Q340148,Q639240,Q752528,Q197095,Q791567,Q570826,Q268747,Q788634,Q932166,Q378714,Q746516,Q791607,Q268983|fill=#FFFF00|title=[[Istanbul/Western Suburbs|Western Suburbs]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|stroke-opacity=0.1|wikidata=Q732028,Q272681,Q691764|fill=#A52A2A|title=[[Istanbul/Rural|Countryside]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|stroke-opacity=0.1|wikidata=Q326339,Q794351|fill=#00FFFF|title=[[Istanbul/Asian Bosphorus|Asian Bosphorus]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|stroke-opacity=0.1|wikidata=Q932886|fill=#FF00FF|title=[[Istanbul/Kadikoy|Kadıköy]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|stroke-opacity=0.1|wikidata=Q1020668|fill=#FF4500|title=[[Istanbul/Princes' Islands|Princes' Islands]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|stroke-opacity=0.1|wikidata=Q938548,Q857056,Q673890,Q639014,Q253182,Q122320,Q739547,Q753882,Q334924|fill=#FFA500|title=[[Istanbul/Eastern Suburbs|Eastern Suburbs]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|stroke-opacity=0.1|wikidata=Q241631|fill=#4B0082|title=[[Istanbul/Sile|Şile]]}} ===European Side=== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Istanbul districts map updated.png | regionmapsize=550px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | regionmapLat=41.03825 | regionmapLong=29.00798 | regionmapZoom=10 | region1name=[[Istanbul/Historical Peninsula|Historical Peninsula]] | region1color=#FF0000 | region1description=Essentially '''Constantinople''' of the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans, this is the walled inner city, with most of the famous historical sights of Istanbul. | region2name=[[Istanbul/Galata|Galata]] | region2items= | region2color=#0000FF | region2description=Once a colony of various European nations, mostly non-Muslim populated district of Ottoman Istanbul. With '''Beyoğlu''' in its core, '''İstiklal Avenue''' is perhaps the best-known street, and '''Taksim Square''' is perhaps the most central point in the city life. | region3name=[[Istanbul/European Bosphorus|European Bosphorus]] | region3color=#008000 | region3description=From '''Beşiktaş''' to '''Sarıyer''', it covers the European bank of the Bosphorus, lined by numerous palaces, parks, waterfront mansions, and bohemian neighborhoods. | region4name=[[Istanbul/Golden Horn|Golden Horn]] | region4color=#008080 | region4description=The banks of the Golden Horn, the estuary that separates the European side into distinctive areas. '''Eyüpsultan''' holding on tightly to its Ottoman, and Islamic heritage is the highlight whilst '''Balat''' blends in the Christian heritage. | region5name=[[Istanbul/New City|New City]] | region5color=#800080 | region5description=The region that encompasses the main business district of the city - '''Levent''' as well as home to luxury neighborhoods as '''Etiler''' and designer fashion outlets in areas such as '''Nişantaşı'''. | region6name=[[Istanbul/Western Suburbs|Western Suburbs]] | region6color=#FFFF00 | region6description=Mostly residential region of the European side. The coastal areas like '''Bakırköy''' tend to have more historicity whilst inner areas like '''Bahçeşehir''' tend to have a modern accent. | region7name=[[Istanbul/Rural|Countryside]] | region7color=#A52A2A | region7description=The western part of the European side, including the countryside across the '''Çatalca''' Peninsula, home to scattered Byzantine ruins and lonely beaches. }} ===Asian Side=== {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Istanbul/Asian Bosphorus|Asian Bosphorus]] | region1color=#00FFFF | region1description=From '''Üsküdar''' to '''Beykoz''', it covers the Asian bank of the Bosphorus, lined by numerous palaces, parks, waterfront mansions, and bohemian neighborhoods. | region2name=[[Istanbul/Kadikoy|Kadıköy]] | region2color=#FF00FF | region2description=The locals' favorite. The most vibrant district on Istanbul’s Asian side, if not on both sides. Known for its rich cultural scene, lively nightlife, historic roots, and a unique blend of bohemian and modern urban life. | region3name=[[Istanbul/Princes' Islands|Princes' Islands]] | region3color=#FF4500 | region3description=An excellent getaway from the city, this is an archipelago of car-free islands of various sizes, with splendid wooden mansions, verdant pine forests and nice views: not only on the islands, but also on the way there. | region4name=[[Istanbul/Eastern Suburbs|Eastern Suburbs]] | region4color=#FFA500 | region4description=Mostly residential region of the Asian side. The coastal areas like '''Maltepe''' tend to have more historicity, whilst inner areas like '''Ataşehir''' tend to have a modern accent. | region5name=[[Istanbul/Sile|Şile]] | region5color=#4B0082 | region5description=A picturesque coastal district on Istanbul’s Black Sea shore, known for its sandy beaches, summer resorts, and tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular getaway for city dwellers. }} ==Understand== {{quote|Istanbul was Constantinople. Now it's Istanbul, not Constantinople|author=Jimmy Kennedy, Istanbul (Not Constantinople), 1953}} ===History=== [[File:2019-07-28_Galata_Bridge_3.jpg|thumb|350px|Galata as seen from Old Istanbul across the Golden Horn]] While relics of prehistoric human settlement were found in the Yarımburgaz Cave near the Küçükçekmece Lake and during the construction of a subway station in Yenikapı, [[Ancient Greece|Greek colonists]] from [[Attica|Megara]], directed by their legendary leader Byzas, have been traditionally accepted as the founders of Istanbul. Expanding the ancient Greek colony of '''Byzantium''' by the order of the [[Roman Empire|Roman]] Emperor Constantine the Great, the imperial city of '''Constantinople''' was for nearly a thousand years the heavily-fortified capital of the [[Byzantine Empire|Eastern Roman (later termed Byzantine) Empire]]. To this day, the Ecumenical Patriarch, head of the Eastern Orthodox Church continues to be the Archbishop of Constantinople, who is still based in Istanbul. It was finally conquered by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II on 29 May 1453, an event sometimes used to mark the end of the Middle Ages. It was the nerve centre for military campaigns that were to enlarge the [[Ottoman Empire]] dramatically. By the mid-1500s, Istanbul, with a population of almost half a million, was a major cultural, political, and commercial centre. Ottoman rule continued until it was defeated in the [[World War I|first World War]] and Istanbul was occupied by the allies. When the Republic of Turkey was born in 1923 after the War of Independence, Kemal Atatürk moved its capital to the city of [[Ankara]], strategically located in the centre of the new republic. However, Istanbul has continued to expand dramatically; today its population is approximately 14 million and increases at an estimated 400,000 immigrants per year. Industry has expanded even as tourism has grown. It continues to be a city that creates its own history at the intersection where both continents meet. ===Orientation=== Istanbul is divided in three by the north-south '''Bosphorus Strait''' (''İstanbul Boğazı'', "the strait of Istanbul"), the dividing line between Europe and Asia, the estuary of the '''Golden Horn''' (''Haliç'') bisecting the western part and the '''Sea of Marmara''' (''Marmara Denizi'') forming a boundary to the south. Most sights are concentrated in the old city on the peninsula of '''Sultanahmet''', to the west of the Bosphorus between the Horn and the Sea. Across the Horn to the north are '''Galata''', '''Beyoğlu''' and '''Taksim''', the heart of modern Istanbul, while '''Kadıköy''' is the major district on the comparatively less-visited Anatolian side of the city. The Black Sea forms the relatively less developed northern boundary of Istanbul. ===Climate=== {{climate chart |Istanbul |3.6 |8.8 |96.1 |3.5 |9.4 |87.7 |4.9 |12.0 |69.8 |8.1 |16.1 |45.1 |12.8 |21.0 |37.1 |17.4 |25.7 |44.7 |20.3 |28.0 |36.3 |21.2 |28.2 |43.5 |17.4 |24.6 |81.3 |13.6 |19.9 |98.3 |9.2 |15.0 |100.5 |5.5 |10.7 |124.8 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Istanbul]] |jansnow =26.0|febsnow =24.7|marsnow =11.6|aprsnow =0|maysnow =0|junsnow =0|julsnow =0|augsnow =0|sepsnow =0|octsnow =0|novsnow =2.6| decsnow =22.1 | description = See the 4 day forecast for Istanbul at the [https://mgm.gov.tr/eng/forecast-cities.aspx?m=ISTANBUL Turkish State Meteorological Service] }} Despite what its stereotypes, artificially placed palm trees, or misleading tourism brochures may imply, Istanbul is not the sunny, warm year-round holiday destination some people might hope it is. In fact, Istanbul has way more in common with Southwestern France or the Pacific Northwest than with virtually all of the cities near the Mediterranean Sea, with an average temperature around 12-14°C, it is only 1°C warmer than New York, and around the same average temperature as Portland, Oregon or Bordeaux, France. Simply put, Istanbul has an oceanic climate with some Mediterranean influences. This means very warm, mostly sunny summers, and cool to chilly, bleak winters with very frequent rain and, on occasion, snow. Istanbul is a fairly cloudy city, especially for the Eastern Mediterranean, with around 1,700-2,300 hours of sunshine, which means the skies are overcast around half of the time. Overcast conditions can occur because of dense fog, which is common year-round, affecting certain inland parts of Istanbul for an impressive 200 days per year. However, because of the urbanization of Istanbul and the resulting 'urban heat island', fog has become increasingly rare in the densely inhabited coastal regions of Istanbul, making summers much sunnier than they once were. Another potentially surprising part of Istanbul's climate is its frequent rainfall, as even though rainfall varies a lot depending on where you are in the city, the city average is somewhere around 800mm over some 150 days of the year. This makes umbrellas useful, especially in summer and fall when rains tend to be heavier. Istanbul is wetter than most major European cities, such as London, Paris, or Berlin. However, a large part of Istanbul's rainfall happens in the colder months, leaving the warmest months to sunny, moderately dry weather. Before getting into more detailed information, it's important to understand that because of its huge size, topography, and maritime influences, Istanbul exhibits a multitude of distinct microclimates. Thus, different sections of Istanbul can experience different weather conditions at the same time. A good example of this would be the occasional summer showers in the city. These showers often affect the north of the city much more than the south, and the south would likely stay dry while the north gets soaked. ==== Summer ==== [[File:BosphorusSwim2016 (28).jpg|thumb|The annual Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swim]] Summer (Jul-Aug) is generally quite warm, averaging around 26°C during the day and 17°C at night. The weather is often pleasant, and there is an almost constant northeasterly wind called Poyraz that prevents the city from experiencing temperatures higher than 32-33°C on most years. However, the same breezy conditions, also bring very humid air from the Black Sea, causing very muggy conditions, which raises the perceived temperature quite a bit. Summer is relatively dry, but generally not rainless, with around four to five rainy days a month. The rain that does fall during this time can get heavy however, and for a number of reasons Istanbul is known to be a severe weather hotspot, with, among other things, around 2-3 hailstorms per year, which is extremely high for a Mediterranean-influenced city. Light clothing is recommended during summer. A light jacket and/or light sweater if the summer evenings do become a little cooler than average could be useful. ==== Spring and Autumn ==== Spring (Apr-Jun) and fall (Sep-Nov) are both mild, with a good mix of rain and shine. Late spring (late May to early June) and early autumn (late September to early October) are quite pleasant and the best times to visit the city. During these periods temperatures are pleasantly warm, and the weather is less rainy than in winter; even though the nights can get a little chilly, and rain can definitely not be ruled out. ==== Winter ==== [[File:Istanbul photos by J.Lubbock 2015 482.jpg|thumb|Istanbul experiences frequent precipitation during the colder months of the year, some of which falls as snow]] Winter (Dec-Mar) is generally chilly, averaging around 8°C during the day and 2°C at night, but the high relative humidity levels make the winter air quite a bit more miserable, and the wind chill can make the temperatures feel much colder. There can be mild and cold periods as well, these usually changing with the wind patterns. A southwesterly wind, called Lodos, can bring relatively comfortable but showery days with highs around 12-16°C, while northerly winds bring daytime temperatures at or slightly above freezing. This time of year is infamous for its rain. Rain generally falls as a light, intermittent and barely noticeable kind of drizzle, but it can go on for a week or more at a time, with almost three weeks of rain on average per month. This kind of rain can easily be managed without an umbrella (and indeed, most locals tend to prefer raincoats or warm clothing instead), however if you do want an umbrella when it's raining out, the streets of Istanbul are suddenly filled with umbrella sellers as soon as it starts raining. Although the umbrellas they provide are a little shoddy, and you can find much better umbrellas for that price at shops if you look around a bit. Snowfall is somewhat common between December and March, however this changes quite a bit from year to year. Mild winters can get only a trace of accumulation, while colder winters can bring up to three weeks of snow cover. One other thing to note here is how heavy the snow can get in Istanbul. This is because Istanbul's snowfall comes from an event called sea or lake effect snowfall, where bands of heavy snow showers lash the coasts of Istanbul, bringing waves of showery snow. These events generally don't go on for long, as when the colder weather leaves Istanbul, so does the snow. However, accumulations of up to 75 cm in a single day have been recorded, even in the warmer city center. Warm clothing is essential during winter even if temperature extremes aren't common, wind chill can make most people feel absolutely miserable otherwise. ==Get in== See [[Turkey#Get in]] for visa requirements. From 2020, most EU, UK, CIS and South American visitors do not need a visa. Those from many other countries including Australia, Canada and US can get an e-visa online, valid for 90 days. ===By plane=== [[File:İstanbul Yeni Havalimanı airport Dec 2019.jpg|thumb|Istanbul Airport, 2nd busiest airport in Europe]] * {{go | name=[[Istanbul Airport]] | alt={{IATA|IST}} | url=https://www.istairport.com/ | email= | address= | lat=41.261 | long=28.742 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Istanbul Airport | wikidata=Q3661908 | lastedit=2023-02-01 | content=Istanbul's chief airport, and the main port of entry into Turkey, is 30 km northwest of the city in Arnavutköy, on the Europe-side Black Sea coast. It was opened in 2018 / 19 and replaced Atatürk Airport. It has a very wide range of international flights, by Turkish Airlines and other carriers, and domestic flights at least daily to all the major Turkish cities. There's car hire and the usual passenger facilities. Metro line M11, public buses, and taxis are available to the city centre. A second metro line is under construction from the airport to the western district of Halkalı. }} '''Getting to and from Istanbul International Airport''' [[File:Turkey-1290 (2215822645).jpg|thumb|Rumeli Fortress]] * '''By metro''' – The M11 metro line connects the airport to the city, providing a fast and affordable option. The metro station is outside airport exit 11, in front of the parking lot, where you can purchase an 'Istanbulkart.' To reach your destination, you will likely need to transfer and possibly walk a short distance. The Istanbul metro operates from 06:15 to 00:15. * '''By bus''' – Two companies, Havaist and IETT, provide transport to and from Istanbul International Airport, though neither offers a direct connection to the popular Sultanahmet area. You can reach other parts of the city using IETT independently or in combination with other transportation modes. Havaist's luxury buses (iSt-1) take you to major transit hubs like Aksaray Metro Station (the trip takes about 90 minutes depending on traffic). Havaist operates non-stop every 25-30 minutes, and a ticket costs €5.42 or $5.99 (October, 2024). The bus station is located on Level -2 at the airport. Here, you can purchase an 'Istanbulkart,' which is valid for all forms of public transport, including public restrooms. Airport shuttle tickets can also be bought online via the Havaist app or [https://www.hava.ist/sefer-saatleri.php?lang=en website], where you can also find the list of stations and timetable. If you choose city buses or trams, note that travel can be challenging if you have luggage or arrive during peak hours. The vehicles may be crowded, and transfers between lines often involve a bit of walking. * '''By taxi''' – Taking a taxi offers a comfortable transfer, but it may not be fast due to Istanbul's heavy traffic. A ride to Sultanahmet typically costs approximately €27.92 (according to [https://istanbul-international-airport.com/transportation/airport-transfer-to-istanbul-city-sultanahmet/ airport guide] as of October 2024), depending on the time of travel since taxis do not have fixed rates. Fares are the same day and night, and tipping is optional. The ride of about 50 km takes around 50 minutes. Official taxi stands are located outside each level of the airport. Yellow (orange) taxis are the most affordable, but you can also opt for a more comfortable blue taxi (15% more expensive) or a black luxury taxi (70% more expensive). Avoid using unofficial vehicles, and be aware of common taxi scams. Taxis can be booked online, using standard services, or through mobile apps (Uber, Bolt). [[File:İstanbul Sabiha Gökçen Uluslararası Havalimanı.jpg|thumb|Sabiha Gökçen, 25th busiest airport in Asia]] * {{go | name=[[Sabiha Gökçen International Airport]] | alt={{IATA|SAW}} | url=http://www.sgairport.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.9066 | long=29.3154 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q723622 | image=Airport_Sahiba_Gökcen_from_Air.jpg | lastedit=2023-02-01 | content=Istanbul's Asia-side airport is 30 km east of city centre. It has many domestic flights, often by Anadolu Jet the budget offshoot of Turkish Airlines. Pegasus and other carriers have flights across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and Western Asia, especially in summer when this is a low cost route to the Turkish beach resorts and Northern Cyprus. None of the airlines that use Sabiha Gökçen have announced plans to relocate to the new Istanbul Airport: it's big enough to take them, but not convenient for Istanbul's Asia side. There's only one terminal, with a full range of passenger facilities, but ground-side procedures here are laborious and arriving two hours before your flight is cutting it very close. There's a security check just to enter the terminal (they will inspect but not confiscate liquids), then the usual check after bag-drop to get air-side. The ground-side departure hall is comfortable. If you have a long stopover here, the LGM CIP Lounge is a good deal, with unlimited free beer, wine, soft drinks, light meals and snacks for €12 entry per person. (Some connection times are very long, as the outbound flight tries to scoop arrivals from far and wide.) There is a hotel at the airport, some half-a-dozen at Kurtköy 2 km north, then another dozen at Pendik town (on the Marmara coast near the YHT station) 6 km south. }} '''Getting to and from SAW''': [[File:Kız Kulesi, Maiden's Tower (52396926549).jpg|thumb|Maiden's Tower]] * '''By metro''' – Line M4 runs from the airport to Kadıköy, taking about an hour. The line is not well-connected to the rest of the metro network, but you can continue to the European side by ferry or transfer to the Marmaray train at Ayrılık Çeşmesi. * '''By train''' – Sabiha Gökçen Airport is 12 km from Pendik YHT railway station, take a taxi or bus 132H to catch fast trains east to Ankara and Konya. * '''By bus''': :* [https://hava.ist/ '''Havaist'''] – It works on both airports. A prepaid solution is available via mobile application. :* '''[http://www.havabus.com/ Havabüs]''' – It runs from the airport to Taksim in the city centre (50 km, 60-90 min), Yenisahra an Asia-side transport hub (50 min) and Kadıköy the ferry quay for Eminönü in Sultanahmet Old City (60 min). Buses run every 30 min between 04:00 and 01:00. Buy your ticket on the bus, Istanbulkart is valid. :* '''City bus''' (İETT bus) – They are the cheapest, with the main routes: :# to Kadıköy by bus E-10 (via Kurtköy, runs 24 hours) or E-11, taking 60-90 min, more in heavy traffic. You need a two-zone ticket. :# to Taksim and elsewhere on the European side, take bus E-3 to 4. Levent metro station. It runs 24 hours, takes 2 hours and needs a three-zone ticket. :# Other routes include E-9 to Bostanci, 16S to Metrobus Uzunçayir, KM-20 to Pendi̇k & Kartal Metro, KM22 to Cevi̇zli̇ Platforms, E-18 to Altuni̇zade & Ümrani̇ye, and 122H via Yeni̇şehi̇r to 4.Levent Metro. * '''By shuttle''' – Inquire with your accommodation or find online. * '''By taxi''' – To Taksim should cost around €20 (as of May 2022). '''Other arrival airports''' are only worth considering for the far northwest of the country and never for Istanbul itself. For instance for [[Edirne]] you might consider [[Sofia]] or [[Plovdiv]] then the intercity bus. But it's almost certainly quicker, cheaper and less hassle to fly into IST then take the bus or train west. '''Atatürk Airport closed''' in 2019. '''Beware (!)''' of out-of-date road signage and maps, and crooked taxi drivers who will take you to a demolition site. Driving out from the city, you should be heading noticeably north, maybe on D020, or O-3 to turn north on O-7. If you're keeping south on D100, the old place is where he intends to take you. === By train === [[File:2007-03-11 03-17 Istanbul 293 Bahnhof Sirkeci (2719801032).jpg | thumb | The distinctly oriental Sirkeci Station, which has welcomed passengers from Europe to the city on the edge of Asia since 1890...]] [[File:Haydarpasa Train Station.jpg | thumb | ...and the distinctly Teutonic Haydarpaşa Station, which provided the first sight of Europe for many passengers from faraway parts of Asia since 1908]] :: ''Wikivoyage has an article on [[Rail travel in Turkey]]'' Since the heyday of the legendary [[Orient Express]], travelling by train has been the classic way of reaching Istanbul. It's still an interesting journey, but the trains no longer reach their classic termini. Those from Europe terminate at Halkalı west of the city, where you change to the frequent cross-city Marmaray train to reach the centre. Those from the east terminate at Söğütlüçeşme in Kadıköy on the Asian side. This means that Istanbul has two large terminus stations that don't have any mainline trains. {{marker | type=go | lat=41.0152 | long=28.9767 | name=Sirkeci}} on the European side is on the Marmaray network, with cross-city and Metro trains deep underground but nothing at street-level. {{marker | type=go | name=Haydarpaşa | lat=40.9962 | long=29.0188}} in Asia has no trains at all. Both stations are worth a quick visit as monuments to a bygone age of rail travel. And both of them have ticket offices, though it's usually simpler to [https://ebilet.tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr/ buy online] from the website of Turkish Republic State Railways, '''[https://www.tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr/ TCDD]{{Dead link|date=October 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. Turkish railway officials have repeatedly said that both Sirkeci and Haydarpaşa termini will be used once again, at least for some services. But as of 2024 no concrete plans have yet materialized and given the usual scale of delays to rail projects in Turkey it might be a while until trains return to these grand old stations. ==== Trains from the east ==== '''YHT high speed trains''' (''yüksek hızlı tren'') run to {{marker | type=go | name=Söğütlüçeşme | wikidata=Q7666457}} on the [[Istanbul/Asian Side | Asian side]], close to their future Haydarpaşa terminus. Two trains a day continue under the Bosphorus calling at Bakırköy in the western suburbs and terminating at Halkalı. They don't stop anywhere in the Sultanahmet or Old City area, and they don't connect with the Europe trains; change to the frequent Marmaray trains for both purposes. As of 2026, there are frequent YHT (high-speed rail) services connecting Istanbul with several major cities. The busiest and most travelled route is [[Ankara]] to Istanbul, with up to 16 daily departures operating throughout the day from early morning until late evening. Journey times range from approximately 4 hours to just over 5 hours depending on the number of stops made along the way. Trains call at intermediate stations including Eskişehir, İzmit, Gebze and Pendik, with some services also stopping at Bilecik, Bozüyük and Arifiye. For current schedules and fare information, see [https://www.e-yasamrehberi.com/tren-saatleri/anahat-trenleri/ankara-istanbul-yuksek-hizli-tren-saatleri.htm Ankara–Istanbul high-speed train timetable]. There are also regular services from [[Eskişehir]] (around 2 hours), with trains continuing through to Pendik and Söğütlüçeşme. Three trains per day run from [[Konya]] (approximately 4½ hours), passing through Ankara and Eskişehir before reaching Istanbul; one of these departs from [[Karaman]] and joins the route at Konya. Two daily services operate from [[Sivas]] (approximately 6½ hours) via Kırıkkale, Yozgat and Ankara, making it one of the longest YHT journeys available. YHT tickets are affordably priced and very popular — book a few days ahead to guarantee a seat, even though the price remains the same regardless of when you book. Change in Konya for Adana, and in Ankara for Erzurum, Kars and Tatvan (which has onward connections to Tabriz and Tehran in Iran). On the eastern edge of the city, YHT trains also call at Bostanci, Pendik and Gebze. {{marker | name=Pendik | type=go | lat=40.880 | long=29.230 }}, 25 km east of city centre, is a convenient stop for transfers from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen airport (10 km, taxi or bus). Consider this route if you intend to fly into Istanbul and immediately head east. Pendik itself is a small township with hotels and cafes, with the bus station and taxi ranks north side of the YHT station. The ''Ankara Express'' is an [[Sleeper trains|overnight]] passenger service between Istanbul and [[Ankara]]. It leaves Istanbul Halkalı nightly at 22:00, picking up at Söğütlüçeşme, Bostanci and Pendik plus nine other intermediate stations, reaching Ankara before 07:00. The return service has the same times, taking about nine hours, and there are seats and sleepers plus a dining car. ==== Trains from Europe and European Turkey ==== [[File:Balkans Express, 2007.JPG | thumb | 300px | All aboard the Balkan Express ]] A sleeper train departs [[Sofia]] around 18:30 nightly, running via Plovdiv, Kapikule on the border, and [[Edirne]], to terminate at Halkalı by 10:00. From June to Sept the ''Bosphor Express'' (with couchettes but no sleeper berths) departs [[Bucharest]] at 10:10, running via Ruse to Kapikule. Here it's coupled to the train from Sofia, and all passengers have to get out for border procedures, before continuing to Halkalı. The westbound service leaves Halkalı at 20:00 to reach Sofia by 09:40 and Bucharest at 17:30 next day. From Oct to May the through-train from Bucharest doesn't run, so you change at Ruse then again at Kapikule, with a similar timetable. (Bear in mind that Romania and Bulgaria have daylight-saving time in summer but Turkey doesn't.) Trains from Budapest to Bucharest, and from Belgrade to Sofia, don't connect with the onward trains to Turkey, so you need an overnight stay. TCDD quote fares for these trains in euros. In 2025 a basic single from Sofia is €26. Add €10 for a couchette, €15 for a bed in a shared 2-person cabin or €35 for the entire cabin. The Budapest-Belgrade line remains closed for engineering works. Belgrade-Sofia trains ''may'' be running but are not confirmed, you might have to take local trains and change at [[Niš]] and Dimitrovgrad. Altogether it's better to reach Turkey via Bucharest. There's also a regional train once a day from Kapikule via Edirne to Halkalı, and another from Uzunköprü. For a luxurious stylish journey, once a year the [https://www.belmond.com/venice-simplon-orient-express Venice Simplon Orient Express] runs from Paris to Istanbul. You travel in lovely restored 1930s luxury coaches and enjoy first-rate cuisine. Tickets start at €17,500; sorry, your Eurail pass won't help here. Between Halkalı and downtown use the Marmaray cross-city suburban train, and allow an hour; trains run every 15 min (and see "Get around"). * {{go | name=Halkalı railway station | alt=Halkalı garı | url= | email= | address=İstasyon Cd., İstasyon Mah., 34303 | lat=41.0188 | long=28.767 | directions=25 km west of central Istanbul | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5642508 | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content=The current terminus. This station has few facilities here, in particular, nowhere to change currency until you get downtown. Ticket machines for the Mamaray trains only accept Turkish cash except for a single one which now takes cards, though it will likely have a long queue when you arrive. }} ===By bus=== [[File:Esenler Coach Terminal at night in 2021.jpg|thumb|Esenler Terminal]] Turkey has an extensive system of intercity buses for travel around the country, as well international routes. The majority of intercity buses servicing both European and Asian parts of Turkey depart and terminate at the Esenler Bus Station. Many of the bus companies have offices around the city and free courtesy mini-buses known as a "servis," collect passengers from the city and take them to either the main bus stations or their own mini-terminals near the main motorways. ====European side==== =====Alibeyköy===== The {{marker|type=go|lat=41.0876|long=28.9451|name=Alibeyköy Terminal}} (''Alibeyköy Cep Otogarı'') is a secondary hub for the European side and is located at Güzeltepe near the outer beltway of Istanbul. Despite its orderly and cool steel-and-glass look, and much smaller size compared with Esenler, this is an unexpectedly chaotic bus station. Buses from Anatolia stop here en route to Esenler bus station, 20–25 min further. The T5 tram line connects this bus station to the M7 metro line, which can be used to get to Mecidiyeköy, a major hub for public transport and the business center of the city, the BRT ''Metrobüs'' line, and to Eminönü all the while providing the passengers a scenic ride along the Golden Horn. There are also somewhat infrequent shuttle services available although none heads for Sultanahmet, they are slower than the tram, and don't expect their drivers to speak much English. =====Esenler===== [[File:Beyazit Tower-Istanbul.JPG|thumb|Beyazıt Tower]] Often called simply 'the Otogar' (Bus Station) or occasionally 'Bayrampaşa Otogar', the colossal circular complex {{marker|type=go|lat=41.0403|long=28.8946|name=Esenler Terminal}} (''Esenler Otogarı''), is located at Esenler (although officially within the Bayrampaşa district), about 10 km (6 miles) northwest of Sultanahmet. This is the city's main bus station ({{Phone|+90 212 658 0505}}) for intercity (including Gallipoli) and many international routes (such as Greece, Macedonia, Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria). With 168 ticket offices and gates, shops, restaurants, hotel, police station, clinic and mosque, the ''Büyük Otogar'' ("big bus station") is a town in itself, but as it lacks a central information desk, you will have to research online on more generic websites like https://infobus.eu or ask around the individual offices for prices and timetables for your destination. It is served by the Otogar metro station on the M1 metro line, that splits there into M1A and M1B. Connections to major destinations within the city are as follows: * '''Sultanahment''': From the Otogar metro station you can take the metro to Aksaray or Zeytinburnu and then easily connect with a tram to Sultanahmet (about 30 minutes via Aksaray) or Kabataş/Taksim. If you travelling with a lot of luggage you may prefer to transfer between the tram to the Metro at Zeytinburnu as the stations are side by side, whereas at Yusufpaşa it is necessary to carry your luggage up and down the steps of an underpass to get to Aksaray Metro station. Going via Zeytinburnu will take longer. The journey will be cheaper if you purchase and recharge an İstanbulkart from the machines at the entrance to the metro station. * '''Beyoğlu''': Take the M1 Metro line to Yenikapı, then change there for the M2 Metro line in the direction of Hacıosman, and get out at Sishane or Taksim. An alternative is to take [https://www.iett.istanbul/en IETT]{{Dead link|date=May 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |last-checked=July 2025}} bus 830 which departs from the bus station at 06:00. 07:00, 07:35, 09:00, 11:00, 13:15, 15:55, 17:15 and 18:35 M to Sa, and at 11:00, 13:00, 15:00 and 17:15 on Sundays. It takes approximately 60 minutes to reach Taksim Square. You'll need a Jeton or İstanbulkart to pay for your fare. * '''Bus connections''': The main lines from the centre include 28O from Beşiktaş, 75O from Mecidiyeköy, 91O from Eminönü, and 83O from Taksim. Refer to the [https://www.iett.istanbul/en IETT]{{Dead link|date=May 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |last-checked=July 2025}} website for timetables. Esenler is approximately 39 km from the new Istanbul airport. They are connected by the HVIST-5 airport bus service operated by [https://www.hava.ist/?lang=en Havaİst]. The journey takes 60 to 75 minutes. * '''Courtesy mini-buses''': Some bus companies such as [https://www.pamukkale.com.tr/servisler/ Pamukkale] operate ''servis'' between the bus station and various pickup and drop-off points around the city. Note that despite having been renamed the ''15 Temmuz Demokrasi Otogar'' (also called the 15 Temmuz Şehitler Otogar) in memory of those who died during the abortive coup attempt of 15 July 2016, most bus companies continue to use the Esenler Otogar name only. ====Asian side==== Buses travelling to and between Istanbul's Esenler bus station and Anatolian destinations stop on the Asian side of Istanbul to pick up and drop off passengers. If you are travelling between the European side of Istanbul and Anatolia it's worth considering getting on or off the bus on the Asian side as it takes anything between 1h 15min and 1h 45min hours off the total travel time. For many years the principal bus station on the Asian side of Istanbul has been at {{marker|type=go|lat=41.0099|long=29.0111|name=Harem}} (pronounced ''hah-REHM''; not to be confused with the ladies' quarter of the [[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old City|Topkapı Palace]] with the same name) right on the Bosphorus, south of Üsküdar and north of Haydarpaşa. From Harem, regular car ferries (which take walk-on passengers) cross the Bosphorus to Sirkeci (just east of Eminönü) on the European side (every 30 minutes M-Sa 05:30-23:00 Su 07:00-22:00). There are also regular passenger ferries from Kadıköy and Üsküdar south and north of Harem to Beşiktaş and Kabataş on the European side. ''Dolmuş''es and many bus lines make the quick run to Üsküdar, from where you can also connect to the M5 metro line, and Marmaray cross-city suburban train. Many of the bus companies (especially the larger ones offering a long list of destinations) have relocated to {{marker|type=go|lat=40.9985894925345|long=29.14447270641429|name=Dudullu Terminals}} as these locations provide a more convenient access to the major motorways. While some of these hubs are relatively close to various stations of M5, none are directly on that metro line, so better catch the ''servis'' minibuses into various central areas, including Harem, Kadıköy and Üsküdar. Reserve a seat in advance as some buses arrive on the Asian side from Esenler with no empty seats. ===By boat=== [[File:Cruise ship and Seabus in Istanbul.jpg|thumb|A cruise ship and an IDO Seabus]] {{cautionbox|As of 2024, ferries to and from [[Ukraine]] are cancelled due to the ongoing war in Ukraine.}} {{seealso|Ferries in the Mediterranean}} There are [http://www.ukrferry.com Black Sea ferries] several times a week to Chornomorske, the main port for [[Odesa]] in Ukraine, taking 27 hours. They run all year and take vehicles; indeed trucking is an important part of their business, as so many travellers nowadays fly. The ferry terminal is at Haydarpaşa, by the old railway station. These ferries used to sail to other Black Sea ports but they no longer do. Additionally, reflecting Turkey's deepening diplomatic ties with [[Libya]], a ferry sails between Istanbul and [[Misrata]] once per week. There are no other international ferries to Istanbul - see "Get around" for local ferries around the Sea of Marmara. Cruise ships usually dock on the European side, to {{marker|type=go|lat=41.0274|long=28.9853|name=Galataport}}, closer to the historic centre. These ships are on cruise itineraries, check with the operator whether a point-to-point journey ending in Istanbul is possible. The piers of {{marker|type=go|lat=41.002425963602846|long=28.957355650706322|name=Yenikapı}} and {{marker|type=go|lat=40.992670333358504|long=29.02327310856714|name=Kadıköy}} host ferry lines to nearby cities such as [[Bursa]] an [[Yalova]]. ===By car=== [[File:Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge Istanbul.jpg|thumb|Yavuz Sultan Selim bridge]] Istanbul lies on the European highway '''E80''', and relatively short distance north of '''E90''', both stretching from [[Lisbon]] at the opposite end of the continent. As for the Asian highways, '''AH-1''' from [[Tokyo]], and '''AH-5''' from [[Shanghai]] pass through the city before terminating at the Turkish-Bulgarian border in the west, but they are not signposted in Turkey. Traffic in Istanbul can be manic; expect a stressful drive because you will be cut off and honked at constantly. It seems that half of the cars in Istanbul are parking while the other half is stuck in traffic. Even if you are on a one-way road, always expect someone coming towards you. The city hosts more than 1½ million cars and there is a strong demand for building of new or alternate highways which of course fill up with traffic as soon as they're built. If you've arrived in Istanbul by car, and you're not familiar with the streets, it's better to park your car in a safe place and take public transportation to get around. The parts of the city on either continent separated by the Bosphorus are connected by three bridges and a road tunnel. All require paying a toll to cross, and none accepts cash: payment must be made by using electronic stickers called ''HGS'', obtainable from post offices. On weekdays, there are potentially hour-long traffic jams on the highways leading to bridges, especially those two closer to the city centre, and particularly heading west in the mornings and east in the evenings, since most people live on the Anatolian side but work on the European side. There is a great shortage of parking in Istanbul, and existing lots are quite expensive. You will see many cars parked on the sides of the road, in front of garage doors even. Street signs are rare. It is a common thing to pull over and ask for directions, something the natives and taxi drivers do quite often. ===By bicycle=== [[File:Kuleli Military High School - Istanbul.jpg|thumb|Coastal areas have dedicated bicycle roads coupled with fantastic landmarks such as Kuleli Military High School, one of the oldest military academies ever.]] The [https://www.sultanstrail.net/en/ Sultan's Trail] (2,500 km) and the [https://sufitrail.com/ Sufi Trail] (800 km) are [[cycling]] and [[hiking]] trails approaching the city from the west and the east, specifically [[Vienna]] and [[Konya]] respectively. The former retraces the campaign of Suleiman the Magnificent onto the Habsburg capital, while the latter follows an Ottoman [[Hajj]] pilgrimage route. Otherwise, you will have to approach the city on D-100 from either direction, or on the northern (and relatively less busy) route D-020 from the west, and perhaps switch to the bike paths along the Marmara coast once the suburban development begins, as all other main routes leading into the city are classified as motorways, and thus the bikes are forbidden on them. ===By thumb=== Istanbul is huge, so you'll need public transport between your accommodation and your pick-up/drop-off point. Leaving the city, the best routes are: *'''West''' into Europe: you want to be on main highway E-80. First take bus 448 from Yenibosna metro station (southern line, near Ataturk Airport) north towards Mimarsinan. Get off after about 5 km when you cross the E-80. *'''East''' into Asia: again, you want to reach highway E-80. Probably the closest you can start thumbing is Pendik: reach it by metro as described for the YHT railway station. Then start hitching on D-100 which will join E-80. A local lift as far as Gebze or Izmit will also be close to that highway. ==Get around== [[File:Istanbul Rapid Transit Map with Metrobüs (schematic).png|thumb|upright=2.5|Rapid transit map of Istanbul (urban rail and ''metrobüs'' systems)]] İETT (or just ''toplu taşıma'') is the municipality's public transportation company. Istanbul's public transit system can be difficult to figure out. However, if you put some effort into it, you can avoid taxis and not walk too much. Unless you use the ''Istanbulkart'', each time you use a tram, metro, bus, or boat on the public transport system, you will need to use a ticket or pass. They can be bought at various vending machines at bus, railway and metro stations or authorized ticket/Istanbulkart sellers (usually newspaper kiosks). Ticket fares across buses, trams and metros differ. Only cash in Turkish lira is accepted at ticket kiosks of public transport, no credit cards or foreign currency. The Istanbul subway system does not offer transfer tickets: each change to a new line requires a new fare. When travelling to Istanbul by air, it is much cheaper (and more fun) to use the bus (or metro system once it is extended) to get as close to your accommodation as possible before walking and/or taking a taxi to where you are staying. Although the public transport may be slightly confusing, taxis/charter buses from the airport are notoriously overpriced. If public transport is your choice of getting around, consider using smartphone public transportation applications so that you can easily see stops, stations and terminals nearby or see alternate routes for your planned destination. İETT has an official one called '''Mobiett''' which is available for [https://itunes.apple.com/tr/app/mobiett/id680243755?l=tr&mt=8 iOS], [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.verisun.mobiett Android] or [https://www.microsoft.com/tr-tr/store/p/mobiett/9nblggh0cgq0 Windows]. But also Google Maps is very reliable to guide your way using public transport. ===''İstanbulkart''=== [[File:New Istanbulkart machine.jpg|thumb|Istanbulkart machine]] The [https://www.istanbulkart.istanbul/ İstanbulkart]{{Dead link|date=October 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is Istanbul's public transport smart card, which can be used as a ticket on buses, trams, suburban trains, metro, local ferries, etc. If you are in Istanbul for more than a day or two and intend to use public transport, it will pay for itself in a few trips. It can be purchased at a number of small corner shops throughout the city, or from the machines located at most stations, where it can also be recharged, using notes or a credit card. An alternative to the physical card is the '''Mobile İstanbulkart''', which is an app you can load on your phone. However, as of 2024, signing up requires a Turkish mobile phone number, so unless you have one, you will be out of luck. You touch the Istanbulkart to a reader when you get on the bus or enter the tram or metro platform. The great advantage for a group of travellers is that you can buy only one and touch it as many times as there are passengers (unlike London's ''Oyster'' card, there is no need to ''touch out'', except the BRT ''Metrobüs'' line). You can buy or refill them at designated booths located at any major bus, tram, or metro station, as well as some other places such as newspaper stands close to bus stops. There are refill machines located at most metro or tram stops and ferry terminals. An Istanbulkart provides significantly discounted rates (a bit over half price for unlinked trips and even cheaper for transfers) compared to regular single tickets, as well as discounts on transfers and short round trips (when used multiple times within a limited period, roughly 1½ hr since the last time you used it). The round trip to the airport pays for more than half the cost of this card. Some connections charge extra because their range is very large, e.g. the Marmaray train but even buses. However, there are '''refund machines''' at the exit of stations that serve these long distance connections. In case you only travel a short distance tap your card there, and you will be reimbursed some money. Either way, if you feel like you paid too much, tap or just always tap&mdash;you won't get charged twice. As of 2023, however, Istanbulkart must be "personalized" - linked to a Turkish ID card - to be able to enjoy discount transfers and Marmaray refunds. This means that regular tourists are '''not''' eligible and will '''not''' enjoy any discounts on transfers and/or Marmaray refund. The Istanbulkart is relatively new, and replaces the older ''Akbil'' metal touch-token which is deprecated. Though some Kiosks still have ''Akbil'' signs rather than ''Istanbulkart'' signs - but you can usually buy or top up your Istanbulkart at any kiosk where the ''Akbil'' sign is displayed. There is also the so-called "mavi kart" or blue card which is a cheaper option for frequent users of public transport but has some restrictions, can be used by one person whose photo and name are printed on it, it gives 180 trips in bus/tram/metro that have to be used up within a maximum period of 30 days. {{infobox|Disabled travellers|While constant constructions and reroutings in pedestrian areas make the city streets fairly hard to negotiate by wheelchair users, the public transportation administrations of the city have taken steps to accommodate them. Pavements along many major streets in the central areas, as well as pedestrian crossings, have tactile pavings installed. Many pedestrian traffic lights also alert by voice (only in Turkish, though). '''Buses''': The process of replacing old buses with newer ones accessible for people using a wheelchair is ongoing. Many buses on central lines have a low floor and a built-in ramp (consult the driver to lean the bus down nearer to the ground, to open the ramp, and to assist into the bus, though any of these might unfortunately be impossible during peak hours in interval stops. Think of a sardine-packed bus unloading all of its passengers to lean down). LCD screens show the stop names while approaching the stop and voice announcements are made. '''Trams''': They are accessible for people using a wheelchair from the station platforms which are low and equipped with gentle ramps right from the street (or sidewalk) level. All stations are announced both on a display and by voice in the trams. '''Metro''': Almost all stations of Istanbul's metro system are accessible for people using a wheelchair, with lifts/elevators down or up to the platforms from the street level available around the station entrances. All through the system, the trains are easily accessible from the station platforms. For assistance, look for the security guards in grey/black uniforms near the station entrances. All stations are announced by voice in the metro trains. In most lines it is also announced on a display, but not in the older trains of the M1A/M1B. Instead, you should look at the signs in the stations, which are big and common enough. Most metro stations have detectable surface indicators guiding the visually impaired from the street level right to the platform. }} ===By train=== The '''Marmaray cross-town train''', opened in March 2019, links Halkali mainline station in the west with Bakırköy, Zeytinburnu, Sirkeci and Üsküdar either side of the Bosphorus, and Bostancı, Kartal, Pendik and Gebze to the east; plus many small suburban stations. (Pendik and Gebze are on the YHT main line.) Trains run every 15 min 06:00-23:00 and between city centre and end of the line takes an hour. The central sections are shared with the metro. U3/T6 is an extension running along the Marmara coast of the Old City between Kazlıçeşme (transfer to the main Marmaray line, B1) and Sirkeci. ===By metro=== The city '''[https://www.metro.istanbul/en/ Metro]{{Dead link|date=March 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' has many lines, although not all are equally useful to the visitor: * '''Line M1A''' connects the main coach station (''Otogar'') to Aksaray, from where you can catch tram T1 to the city centre, and onward to train hub Yenikapı for connections to M2 and Marmaray. * '''Line M1B''' is a branch of M1A which serves the western suburb of Kirazlı. All trains serve the common section between Yenikapı and the bus station. * '''Line M2''' starts from Yenikapı and crosses the Golden Horn, continuing via Şişhane and Taksim Square to Mecidiyeköy and Levent in the [[Istanbul/New City|business district]], and further north to Hacıosman (a major bus hub for suburbs on the north European side, eg Sarıyer). * '''Line M3''' runs northwest from Bakırköy, with transfer stations to Marmaray B1, M1A, M1B, M7 and M9. * '''Line M4''' on the Asian side goes from Kadıköy to the suburbs along the Marmara coast as far east to Kartal, Pendik (but 1 km away from Pendik YHT station), and Sabiha Gökçen Airport. * '''Line M5''' on the Asian Side runs from Üsküdar on the Bosphorus through Ümraniye and Çekmeköy out to Samandıra in the east. * '''Line M6''' (also called ''Mini Metro'') is a shuttle from the Levent station of M2, and serving the upscale district of Etiler and the main campus of Boğaziçi University in Hisarüstü. The funicular extension '''F4''' connects to Aşiyan down on the Bosphorus. *'''Line M7''' mainly serves the densely populated residential areas in the north such as Bağcılar and Gaziosmanpaşa (also known as G.O.P.), connecting them via Mecidiyeköy, the business district and one of the major transport hubs, to Yıldız, about a kilometre uphill from the ferry jetty at Beşiktaş. This line also connects to the metro lines M3 and M2 as well as the metrobüs and the tram lines T4 and T5. *'''Line M8''' is a cross-city line on the Asian Side, connecting M4, M5, and Marmaray suburban (B1) lines with each other, and with the ferry jetty at Bostancı. *'''Line M9''' is a full north-south line connecting Ataköy on the Marmara coast to Olimpiyat, serving as a major transfer spine on the European side. *'''Line M11''' connects the [[Istanbul Airport|main airport]] to Gayrettepe (M2) and Kağıthane (M7), and (as of Jan 2026) extends to Arnavutköy. The final link to Halkalı in the final stages of completion. Much of the city is not yet served by the metro, and the distance between stations is larger than in most European cities. But the metro is fast where it does go and meticulously clean and modern, with much of it dating to the 21st century. Most lines are deep underground and some have entrances amidst busy streets with pedestrian tunnels or bridges the only access, so be prepared to walk quite a bit when going to and from stations. Transfers virtually always require exiting and re-entering the system which means a new full fare (with single use tickets) or a reduced fare for the connection (with Istanbulkart). You do not have to swipe any card on exit for metro or tram routes but you do have to do so for Istanbulkart on Metrobus, else you'll be charged the maximum distance fare. As of 2023, only "personalized" Istanbulkarts will receive any refunds or discounts. * [https://metrodakikahesapla.com/ Metro Dakika Hesapla] – Since distances between stations can be long and transfers often require extra walking, this independent tool helps calculate exact travel times and transfer durations across the entire network. Istanbul's first underground system dates to the 19th century, when the funicular subway "Tünel" (F2) was constructed to operate from [[Istanbul/Galata|Karaköy to Istiklal Caddesi]] in 1875, travelling 573 m up a steep hill. It's still running and is handy for going from the Galata Bridge to İstiklal Caddesi, the famous throughfare of Beyoğlu There is also another, modern funicular system (F1) connecting Taksim to Kabataş where you can transfer to ferries for the [[Istanbul/Asian Side|Anatolian side]], or to trams bound for the [[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old City|old city]]. Heavy construction on extensions and new lines continues apace, with the gap between the M1 and the M2 plugged with Yenikapı station. You can connect M4 and M5 via Marmaray from Yenikapı station. Unfortunately most network maps already show the yet to be built extensions in a lighter shade which can be confusing for a casual glance and frustrating when contemplating where you might be able to go if only you visited Istanbul a year or two later. The old plastic tokens are no longer valid: the only way to pay for metro is Istanbulkart or limited-pass cards. The metro stations do ''not'' have a staffed ticket booth, so you must obtain your tickets or top-up your Istanbulkart through ticket machines. To buy limited pass cards, insert coins or notes and then press the button marked ''onay/okay''. Though an Istanbulkart (see above) may be more cost effective during your trip. ===By tram=== [[File:Istanbul asv2021-11 img27 Alibeyköy tram.jpg|thumb|The modern tramcars of Istanbul]] [[File:Nostalgic tram on Istiklal Avenue in Istanbul.jpg|thumb|And the nostalgic ones]] Snaking its way between its eastern terminus Kabataş on the Bosphorus and the western terminus at Bağcılar in the northwest, '''T1''' is the most useful tram line, serving many popular sites across the Old City and ferry jetties. The most helpful interchange stations are Kabataş (for F1 funicular to Taksim), Karaköy (for F2 old funicular, ''Tünel'', to the lower end of İstiklal Avenue and ferries to the Asian Side), Eminönü (for T5 tram and ferries to the Asian Side), Laleli-Üniversite (for M2 metro), Aksaray (for B1 Marmaray), Yusufpaşa (for M1 metro), Topkapı (for T4 light rail), Cevizlibağ (for BRT ''Metrobüs''), Zeytinburnu (for M1 and BRT), and Bağcılar (for M1 and M3 metro). During '''rush hours''' (roughly 07:00-09:00 and 17:00-19:30), every other tram runs only the central section between Eminönü or Sultanahmet and Cevizlibağ. Speaking of which, during rush hours, it's best to skip the tram entirely, as walking instead is not only less endeavouring than trying to stand in the most nightmarish sardine can, but also is quicker as the crowd won't disperse enough to allow you to get into the car before the second or even the third tram calling at. Other tram lines are '''T5''' from Eminönü via Fener and Balat along the Golden Horn to Eyüp and Alibeyköy (the secondary bus station and interchange to M7 metro), and '''T4''' (part underground; more like ''metro-tram'' light rail of some European cities) from Topkapı outside the city walls to the nondescript northwestern suburbs. The '''vintage tram''' lines T2, 1920s tram cars rattling along İstiklal Avenue, and T3, 1960s German-made streetcars on a circular route between Kadıköy and nearby Moda on the Asian Side, are more of attractions than practical transport options. As with other public transport, you use ''Istanbulkart'' for the payment, but you must pay another fare each time you change lines although on a progressively discounted rate. Tram lines are run by Metro Istanbul. ===By boat=== [[File:Istanbul (7266766986).jpg|thumb|300px|Istanbul liner ready to depart from Eminönü]] Unique Istanbul liners (large conventional ferry boats), sea-buses (high speed catamarans), or mid-sized private ferries travel between the European and Asian sides of the city. The crossing takes about 20 minutes, and gives great views of the Bosphorus. ''Sometimes the ferry when arriving at a dock can bounce off the pier accidentally, even on calm days. This can cause people to fall over if they are standing up, so it is advisable to remain seated until the ferry has come to an absolute stop.'' In Istanbul, liners from any given pier generally take only a certain route, and these piers are signposted as according to the destination. For instance, [[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old City|Eminönü]] alone has more than 5 piers (including the ones used by ferries other than liners), so if you should head for, say, [[Istanbul/Asian Side|Üsküdar]], you should take the ferry which departs from ''Üsküdar İskelesi''. Replace 'Üsküdar' with the destination of your choice. [http://ido.com.tr Istanbul liners] travel on the following routes: * Karaköy–Haydarpaşa–Kadıköy * Kadıköy–Eminönü * Üsküdar–Eminönü * Üsküdar–Karaköy–Eminönü–Eyüpsultan (The Golden Horn Route) * Kadıköy–Besiktaş * Kabatas–Uskudar–Harem * Istinye–Emirgan–Kanlıca–Anadolu Hisarı–Kandilli–Bebek–Arnavutköy–Çengelköy (The Whole Bosphorus Route) * Anadolu Kavağı–Rumeli Kavağı–Sariyer * Eminönü–Kavaklar (Special Bosphorus Tour, Recommended For Tourists) * Sirkeci–Adalar–Yalova–Cınarcık (The Princes' Islands Route) [[File:Larus in Turkey.jpg|thumb|Istanbul gull at [[Istanbul/Princes' Islands|the Princes' Islands]]. They can be commonly seen flying in droves alongside the local ferries, receiving treats such as ''simit'' from the passengers.]] Furthermore, the '''sea-buses''' (''deniz otobüsü'') follow the same (or more) routes, usually much faster than liners. Returning to Yenikapı from Kadıköy by '''sea-bus''' is a fast and convenient way to cross the Bosphorus; at Yenikapı you can change to numerous urban rail routes. Four main '''private ferry''' routes for travelling between Asia and Europe sides are: * Besiktaş–Üsküdar * Kabataş–Üsküdar ''(close to tram and funicular system in Kabataş)'' * Eminönü–Üsküdar ''(close to tram in Eminönü)'' * Eminönü–Kadıköy ''(close to tram in Eminönü)'' There is also a Golden Horn boat line, starting from Eyüpsultan and ending in the Asian Side, Üsküdar, passing through notable touristic places like Balat, Fener, Cibali and Karaköy. Although the trip takes around an hour to complete, the boat ride is quite enjoyable with beautiful scenery of the Golden Horn. The boats arrive in the stations only once every hour though, if you plan on taking this boat you should time it well. All of the ferries, including private ones, can be paid for using the ''AKBIL/Istanbulkart'' system. Very useful are the fast ferryboats (travelling at 55 km/h) running from several points, such as the Yenikapı–[[Yalova]] one, that allows you (with a connecting bus in Yalova) to be in [[Bursa]] centre in less than three hours. Prices are marginally higher and the gain in time is considerable, though the view is not as nice. There are also cheaper BUDO ferry lines from Eminönü to [[Mudanya]], the port for [[Bursa]]. From there you can take a bus to the Bursa city centre. ===By bus=== [[File:Otoyol1PerPa (6).jpg|thumb|Metrobus (bus rapid transit)]] [[Public transportation]] buses are either run or inspected by [http://www.iett.istanbul/en İETT]{{Dead link|date=May 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Public buses in Istanbul come in many colours and shapes, but the most important thing to keep in mind is that ticket sales on board have completely been phased out, so you will have to obtain one (or an '''İstanbulkart''', which is accepted on all public transport methods) prior to boarding the bus. Istanbul's heavily used bus rapid transit (BRT) system, locally called ''Metrobüs'', is served by long hybrid buses running on their special lanes along the city's inner beltway, separated from all other traffic and thus saving lots of time in Istanbul's generally congested roads. While an extremely important transport option for the locals, the system covers areas not usually visited by the travellers, between Beylikdüzü in the far [[Istanbul/Western Suburbs|western suburbs]] of the city and Kadıköy on the [[Istanbul/Asian Side|Asian Side]] via Bakırköy, Cevizlibağ outside the [[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old City|old city walls]] near the Topkapı Gate, the business district in [[Istanbul/New City|Mecidiyeköy]], and the Bosphorus Bridge. Most bus lines operate roughly 06:00-23:59, usually with a reduced volume of services after 22:00. Some lines between major centres operate 24/7 though, as is the ''Metrobüs'', with about an hour intervals. After midnight, buses cost ''two'' tickets per person rather than the usual one. '''Night Time Bus Lines''': : A double-check from İETT website is strongly recommended. *TH-1 Taksim - Atatürk Airport (does not operate between 01:00 - 04:00) *40 Taksim Square–Rumelifeneri/Garipçe *E10 Kadikoy–Sabiha Gokcen International Airport *15F Kadikoy–Beykoz *130 Kadikoy–Tuzla *34A Sogutlucesme(Kadikoy)–Edirnekapi (Metrobus) *34 Avcilar–Zincirlikuyu (Metrobus) As a tourist, you are most likely to use the tram and the metro in the Sultanahmet and Taksim area since there are no bus lines operating in the area anymore. Buses and streetcars tend to be very crowded during rush hours, especially on Mondays and Fridays. That can also create opportunities for pickpockets. ===By taxi=== [[File:Colorful apartment buildings, Istanbul, Turkey.jpg|thumb|Houses of [[Balat]]]] [[Taxis]] are an easy way to get around. Check the start, minimum and per km rates online. and Tipping is generally unnecessary. Sometimes, drivers will not start the meter and try to negotiate a fixed price. You should avoid these cabs and take another one as you will almost certainly end up paying too much. In general, asking "how much to go to ...?" before getting in is a sure-fire way to mark yourself out as an easily-swindled tourist. Rather, make sure they put the taximeter on. If you don't see a taximeter ticking away, ask them to turn it on. Drivers do normally work with the taximeter, so they should not be surprised when you ask them to put it on. '''There is no extra fare at night.''' If you have an internet connection on your laptop or mobile device, you can use [https://taksiyle.com/en/istanbul Istanbul Taxi Fare Calculator] just before taking a taxi from airport, hotel or restaurant. It will help you to easily estimate taxi fares based on pick-up and drop-off locations anywhere in Istanbul, give an outline of the journey and avoid potential taxi scams. The major '''ride-hailing''' companies are [https://www.marti.tech/ Martı], [https://www.uber.com/en-TR/cities/istanbul/ Uber] and [http://www.bitaksi.com/en/ Bitaksi]. Uber operates as a licensed-taxi dispatcher in Turkey, as (non-taxi) ride-hailing apps have not received regulatory approval. Traffic can be very bad, it can take an hour for a few kilometers through the old city. You might be better off taking the metro out of the old city and then a taxi from there. In the summer months especially the shore road can have very congested on the Dolmabahçe - Beşiktaş - Ortaköy - Kuruçeşme stretch, in both directions. ===By shared taxi (Dolmuş)=== '''Dolmuş''' (Turkish: "full") is a shared taxi, travelling on a fixed route, which costs more than a city autobus but less than a normal taxi. They can carry up to 8 passengers and may only take cash. They carry a ''Dolmuş'' sign on top. They will only start driving from their terminal when all eight seats are full, which is also where the name derives from, but can be hailed along their route to fill in a spot from a passenger who previously dismounted. The main and most important routes for dolmuşes are : * Taksim–Eminönü (Taksim stop, near the Atatürk Cultural Centre, in Taksim square) * Taksim–Kadıköy * Taksim–Bostanci * Taksim–Aksaray (Taksim stop, Tarlabasi Avenue, close to Taksim square) * Kadıköy–Bostanci (Bostanci stop, in front of the Bostanci ferry port) * Taksim–Tesvikiye (Taksim stop, in front of Patisserie Gezi, in Taksim square) * Beşiktaş–Nisantasi (Beşiktaş stop, in front of the Beşiktaş - Üsküdar ferry port) * Kadıköy–Üsküdar (Üsküdar stop, Near the Üsküdar - Beşiktaş and Üsküdar - Kabataş ferry port) If you want the driver to make a stop, you can say ''İnecek var.'' (EE-neh-djek war! -- Someone's getting out.) or ''Müsait bir yerde.'' (mU-sa-EEt bir yer-deh. -- At a convenient spot.) ===By bicycle=== [[File:Isbike share.jpg|thumb|An İsbike dock]] If you can find one İsbike docked bikes are very cheap to rent. However, if the İsbike smartphone app, website and machines do not accept your foreign credit card you may not be able to rent the bikes without first obtaining the personalized mavi (blue) İstanbulkart described above. Alternatively if you have a Turkish friend they may be willing to accept the deposit on their card, as it is only a small amount blocked for a few days per bike. === Transport company contact information === Subway, tram, funicular, cable car - call center: +90 850 252 88 00, website: [https://www.metro.istanbul/ MetroIstanbul] Bus, metro bus, nostalgic tünel subway, nostalgic tram - call center: +90 153, website: [https://iett.istanbul/en IETT Istanbul] Istanbul Şehir Hatları (municipal provider, ferry) - call center: +90 212 313 80 00, website: [https://sehirhatlari.istanbul/en Sehir Hatlari Istanbul] Turyol (private providers, ferry, speed boats) - call center: +90 212 251 44 21, website: [https://turyol.com/ Turyol] Dentur (private providers, ferry, speed boats) - call center: +90 444 63 36, website: [https://www.denturavrasya.com/tr-tr/ Dentur Avrasya] IDO (private providers, catamaran) - call center: +90 850 222 44 36, website: [https://www.ido.com.tr/en/ IDO] ==See== {{seealso|Istanbul with children}} [[File:İstanbul Arkeoloji Müzeleri (ana bina, Arkeoloji Müzesi) - Mart 2013.JPG|thumb|Istanbul Archaeological Museums]] [[File:View of Topkapı Palace from the Galata Tower, Istanbul, Turkey 001.jpg|thumb|Topkapı Palace from the Galata Tower]] [[File:Basilica Cistern after restoration 2022 (11).jpg|thumb|Basilica cistern, built by the Romans]] ===Museum Pass=== The Turkish government offers a [https://muze.gov.tr/MuseumPass museum pass] for Istanbul's many sights and museums, and key spots on Sultanahmet, for €105 as of April 2025. The pass can be bought at the entrance of many museums or [https://muze.gov.tr/urun-ekle online]. Check out what is included, and buy it if it makes sense for you. Numerous sights can still be seen for free and the biggest joy is probably just walking around and sucking in the atmosphere. The non-transferable pass is valid for five days from the date of the first visit, and allows one free entry to each of these museums: * Topkapı Palace and Harem * Hagia Irene * Istanbul Archaeological Museums * Istanbul Mosaic Museum * Museum for the History of Science and Technology in Islam * Museum of Turkey and Islamic Arts * Galata Mevlevi House Museum * Rumeli Hisar Museum * Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi Museum) Notably, the Hagia Sophia is not included, and tickets cost an extra €25 as of March 2024. In addition to saving money when visiting these sites, the card allows you to skip the queue for tickets and go straight to the gates at some sites (Galata Tower is the notable exception). Most museums in Istanbul are ''closed on Mondays or Wednesdays'', so checking the website first or ringing is a sensible option before setting off. Alternatively, you can consider buying the much more expensive '''[https://www.istanbultouristpass.com/whats-included Istanbul Tourist Pass]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''', 2-day pass costs €150, 3-day pass €180, 5-day pass €210, 7-day pass €235 as of March 2024. It includes entrance to all of the above museums, a couple of boat tours, three days mobile internet, and even a one-way discounted Istanbul airport transfer (€20). However, it consistently receives negative reviews due to bad organisation and intermittent problems with accessing some of its included services. There are also some [[#City passes|city passes]] (see below), which offer a limited more tour-oriented selection of activities and sights. ===Sights=== {{seeDistricts}} [[File:Istanbul_asv2020-02_img61_Ortaköy_Mosque.jpg|thumb|An Islamic house of worship built in Western architectural styles and overlooked by a bridge connecting Europe and Asia: Ortaköy Mosque is an icon of Istanbul]] With its long history at the centre of empires, Istanbul offers a wealth of historic and religious places to take in. The bulk of these ancient monuments, dating back to the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, including the '''Hagia Sophia''', '''Topkapı Palace''', '''Sultanahmet Mosque''' (''Blue Mosque''), and the '''Basilica Cistern''', are around [[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old City|Sultanahmet Square]], while some others are dispersed throughout the peninsula of the [[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old City|old city]], such as the former '''Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora''' (''Kariye Camii''), the entire inside of which is covered by mindblowing frescoes and mosaics. An impressive section of the mostly intact '''[[Istanbul#Theodosian Walls Walk|Theodosian walls]]''', which mark the full length of the western boundary of the peninsula, is right next to this particular church. North of the old city, across the Golden Horn, is [[Istanbul/Galata|Galata]], crowned by the '''Galata Tower'''. '''Istanbul Modern''', with its exhibitions of contemporary Turkish art, is on the nearby waterfront of Karaköy. Another sight of the district, just north of the Tower, is the museum converted from the '''Dervish Hall''' of the Sufi ''Mevlevi'' order — those interested in the teachings of Rumi will particularly be entertained here. Further north is '''Istiklal Avenue''', Istanbul's prominent pedestrian street running from near the Galata Tower to Taksim Square, the central square of the city. Heading west from the old city brings you deeper into the banks of the [[Istanbul/Golden Horn|Golden Horn]] estuary. A neighbourhood perhaps well worth a visit here is Eyüpsultan, to visit the city’s '''holiest Islamic shrine''' and, with all the religious people wandering around the narrow cobblestone streets in their turbans and other traditional outfits, just to see what the '''daily life in Ottoman Istanbul''' might be like. On the opposite shores of the Horn, in Sütlüce is '''Miniaturk''', the first miniature park in the city, with models from around the former Ottoman Empire. North of Taksim Square is [[Istanbul/New City|New Istanbul]], the main business district of the city. If venturing out to this direction, it's worth checking out the '''Military Museum''', where Ottoman military music concerts (''Mehter'') are held every afternoon. Most of the '''skyscrapers''' of the city are located in the north of this district, around Levent and Maslak, with a totally different skyline from that of the old city. However the southern reaches of the very same district has some fine '''neo-classical''' and '''Art Nouveau buildings''' from the turn of the 20th century, around the neighbourhoods of Osmanbey, Kurtuluş, and Nişantaşı. Just east from here, slopping down to the shore, is the banks of the [[Istanbul/European Bosphorus|European Bosphorus]], lined by pleasant neighbourhoods full of '''waterfront mansions''' (''yalı'') and a number of waterside '''palaces''' where you can admire what money could buy in times gone by. Across the Bosphorus to the east is the [[Istanbul/Asian Side|Asian Side]], centred around the historic districts of Kadıköy and Üsküdar, and perhaps best symbolized by the '''Maiden’s Tower''', at about the halfway between these districts, on an islet just offshore. The Bosphorus and Marmara coasts of this half of the city are characterized by quite '''picturesque neighbourhoods''', overlooked by '''Çamlıca Hill''', one of the highest hills of the city affording a large panorama, with a café and a pleasant park on its summit. [[File:Cat at Ayasofya.jpg|thumb|Gli (2004–2020), the mascot of Hagia Sophia, lived there all her life]] Southeast of the city, off the southern coast of the Asian Side are the [[Istanbul/Princes' Islands|Princes' Islands]], an archipelago of nine car-free islands, characterized by stunning '''wooden mansions''' and '''pine groves'''. Beginning from the 2010s, many visitors to the city have wanted their trip to include, or have even devoted their whole trip to, the locations where their favourite '''Turkish drama series''' were shot. See [[Turkish TV series tourism]] for an in-depth discussion. And '''the cats''' everywhere: ''Catstanbul'' lives up to its name, and has from 125,000 to over a million feline citizens, mostly tabbies. They are usually amicable, well-fed, and healthy – simply purry – so the proper way of referring to them is "communally-owned" rather than "feral" or "stray". ===Tulips=== [[File:Carpet of tulips.jpg|thumb|A carpet of tulips, purported to be the world's largest, blooms in late April in Sultanahmet]] '''Tulips''' were long ignored for their association with the 18th-century Tulip era, a period of ostentation and costly parties thrown by the Ottoman elite amidst large gardens full of tulips (and also when the first bulbs were introduced to the [[Netherlands]] from Istanbul), which was later seen as one of the reasons for the financial weakening and eventual dissolution of the empire. However, as the 21st century arrived, tulips have made a significant comeback, regaining much of their former popularity and now serve as a symbol for both Istanbul and Turkey. Depending on the cultivar, they bloom from late March to early May; pick April for the best views. While they can be seen at the sides or the central strip of many avenues of the city wherever there is enough space, for truly enjoying large patches of tulips with relatively exotic varieties, head to Sultanahmet Park and Gülhane Park in [[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old City|Sultanahmet]], Emirgan Park in the northern [[Istanbul/European Bosphorus|European Bosphorus]] neighbourhood of Emirgan or Çamlıca Hill in the [[Istanbul/Asian Side|Asian Side]]. ==Do== {{seeDistricts}} [[File:Divan Asia Istanbul Hamam 1140059.jpg|thumb|Interior of a ''hamam'']] * '''Hamam''' &ndash; [[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old_City#Hamams|Sultanahmet]] has many historical hamams. Some are very extravagant and cater mainly to tourists. * '''Waterpipe''' &ndash; Most of the places where you can smoke a nargile are in Yeniçeriler Caddesi, near the Kapalı Çarşı (Grand Bazaar). Çorlulu Ali Paşa and Koca Sinan Paşa Türbesi are both in secluded internal courts, just around the corner from some tomb yards, while Rumeli Kahvesi is actually inside the cemetery of an old medrese, though it’s not as spooky as you might think. In the south of Sultanahmet, near the sea, is Yeni Marmara (Çayıroğlu Sokak), where you can also sit in the terrace and enjoy the view. In Beyoğlu, at the Ortakahve (Büyükparmakkapı), there’s even the choice of a wide range of flavors. Another area with few big good looking places is the Rıhtım Caddesi, between Galata bridge and Istanbul Modern Museum. ===Walking tours=== [[File:Sultanahmet Square (Hippodrome), Istanbul.jpg|thumb|Sultanahmet Square]] Museums and such: Haghia Sophia, then on to the Topkapı museum (these two should take at least three to five hours), preferably along the road in the back of the Haghia Sophia, where there are some nicely restored houses. Then on to the Blue Mosque and the square with the obelisks on it (At Meydani). Along its side is the very good Museum of Islam Art. Descend slightly and find the small Haghia Sophia with its nice garden (it was under restoration, but you probably can get in). Then uphill to the Sokollu Mehmet mosque complex, top notch tiles inside. Take a tram or walk to Eminönü (where the boats leave for trips to Asia or up the Bosphorus). Visit the New Mosque at the back, then the Egyptian Bazaar next to it, and going further in that direction, locate the Rüstem Pasha mosque with its excellent tiles. It's on a raised platform near an old clothes market, you may have to ask directions. Then take a cab or find a bus to Eyüpsultan mosque complex, a mile or three up the Golden Horn. Visit this Eyüpsultan complex at your leisure (the mosque is not particular, the court is, and the milling of believers, with many boys-to-be-circumcised among it; a Friday might be a good day to do this). Then, if you have the stamina, it might be nice to walk back too; maybe all the way (8 km or so), but taking a route along part of the city wall to first the famous Kariye Church with its mosaics, then on to Yavuz Selim Mosque with its great view on the Golden Horn (and a fine mosque by itself), then the Fatih Mosque (passing through some very religious and lively neighborhoods), then on to the well-restored Sehzade mosque, and next to Süleymaniye (don't forget to enjoy the view from the Golden Horn side). If you have some energy left, you might go on to the University complex, and by then you are very close to the Beyazit mosque. A book market (it’s small) is behind this good, unexceptional (nice courtyard though) mosque. [[File:City Sightseeing Istanbul Bus 01.JPG|thumb|Tour buses also could be found in Sultanahmet]] Once again go to Eminönü, but this time take the boat (those large ferries) to Üsküdar. You will arrive before a fine mosque in front, another one 400 m off to the right, slightly inland behind a traffic roundabout, and a third, very small, at the sea front. See the market stretching inland, walk about and don't forget to walk along the shore, maybe eating a fish meal in one of the bobbing boats along it. This is a good visit for late afternoon, early evening, fleeing the city. You will be joined by thousands of people going home from "town" but the way back will be on a near-empty ferry. The frequency of ferries will go down in the evening, so make sure there is a connection back. Go to the railroad station and find a Sirkeci-Halkali suburban train, and get out at (from memory, Yedikule station). You will be quite close to Yedikule, a nice fortress, and will have fine views of the city walls. The trains leave every 15 minutes or so, the ride is peculiar (the material is bad, but if you are in luck every second stop another salesman will enter and try selling his wares, it’s fun). The ride is takes anywhere from twenty minutes to half an hour. This is not a "must", but it can be great fun. You will have missed the covered bazaar in all this. That is because you will get there anyhow. If you go to Beyazit and the book market you are almost at two of its many entrances. Try to find the Nuruosmaniye Mosque and its complex at the other side, it’s worth it. And after having explored the covered part, take a relaxing walk downhill, into the general direction of Eminönü, where it is "uncovered bazaar" all the way. Cross the Galata bridge to see some things on the Northern side (for instance take the "tünel" teleferik ride up much of the hill (entrance close to the opposite side of Galata bridge, ask around)), then continue to Taksim. Shops are of the international variety. ====Theodosian Walls Walk==== [[File:Theodosian Wall - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|A restored section of the city walls at the Belgradkapı gate, close to the Marmara coast]] From 408 CE the original walls of Constantine were replaced in the reign of Theodosius. These walls then became the critical point of defence of the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire and their Ottoman successors. They are still almost completely intact, marking the western border of [[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old City|the peninsula of Old City]], with some sections suffering from somewhat unsightly restoration done in early 1990s. The section around the Topkapı Gate (not to be confused with Topkapı Palace which is located in an altogether different place) can be easily accessed from Pazartekke tram station, which lies about 300 m east of the walls. Some remoter sections may not be very safe and may require some caution. A 7-km walk along and on these remaining portions of the city wall offers a window into antiquity and puts emphasis on Turkey’s terrible historic monument legacy. Download and print a scholarly historical and technical description of the walls before you visit Istanbul; this will certainly add to the pleasure. From Eminönü, take the [[Istanbul/Golden Horn|Golden Horn]] ferry to Ayvansaray. This ferry terminal is separate from the [[Istanbul/European Bosphorus|European Bosphorus]] terminals adjacent and east of the Galata Bridge. Walk west through the Galata bridge underpass, then through the bus station to a pedestrian lane way which leads to the small terminal building. Leave the ferry at Ayvansaray and cross the park to the wall on the other side of the main road. You have a choice of walking up the outer wall or the inner wall but access to the top of the battlements is usually on the inside naturally enough, so go up the small street across the road which then cuts back behind the wall and the towers. Here you can climb up onto this section of unrestored wall on crumbling brick and stone and continue on some hundreds of yards climbing as necessary. This path comes to an obvious end and one can short cut back to the street. Sometimes there are dwellings and commercial enterprises hard up against the wall, sometimes a bus depot, a rubbish dump or often just the road. These walls replaced the earlier walls of Constantine in 408 CE after which they went through constant upgrade and repairs to earthquake damage. The different work done over the centuries was all of varying style and quality. Quite surprisingly there are a number of small streets still using the narrow gates. At Hoca Çakır Cd one comes across a restored section of the wall where the heights are accessed by stairs (junction of Hoca Çakır Caddesi and Kariye Bostani Sokak), some along the top of the wall of the steeper variety. This restoration from the 1980s is in conflict with the original. The wall is then breached for the main road Fevzi Paşa Cd. Cross this and continue along the street at the back of the wall. Look for foot pads and breaks in the wall which allows access and a good look around. The wall is breached again for Adnan Menderes Blv (unofficially and widely known as ''Vatan Caddesi''). Past here one see here quite clearly the double line of defence with outer moat. The next breach is for Turgut Özal Cd (unofficially and widely known as ''Millet Caddesi'') which hosts the tram line heading back to Sultanahmet for those who have run out of steam. Walking now on the outside of the walls, various breaks in the outer wall allow access via broken stonework or later via modern sets of steps in disrepair. Between the walls is the disquieting evidence of the number of people sleeping rough in Istanbul. Persevere in staying between the walls because soon you will arrive at another impure restoration project at Mevlanakapı Cd gate. Entry to the gate towers has been closed at the gate, so entry is only from the walls. From here it is better to proceed on the outside of the walls because market gardens occupy the moat and the city side abuts buildings. These couple of kilometres will give a further perspective of the ravages of time and earthquake on the walls. [[File:Istanbul asv2021-11 img61 Yedikule.jpg|thumb|Aerial view of Yedikule Fortress]] Finally you will arrive at the Golden Gate and [[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old City#Yedikule Fortress|Yedikule Fortress]] which fronts the Marmara Sea and was Byzantium’s triumphal point of entry. This is in excellent condition not least because the Ottomans upgraded it and then used it right up to the 19th century. There is an entry fee and it has a toilet. The high walls and towers are all accessible, and one tower still has internal wooden floors. So you have now surveyed the protective land walls which kept Byzantium and the Eastern Roman Empire safe for all those years after the fall of Rome, breached only by the 4th Crusaders and the Ottomans. What of their future? Given that recent restoration work is fairly suspect scholars may think it is better to leave them be. Now return to the city either in the Eminönü Bus (#80) from the village square outside the main gate, just wait there, or walk down Yedikule Istasyonu Cd about 300 m to the railway line to Sirkeci, both heading for centres close to Sultanahmet. ===The classic Bosphorus cruise=== [[File:First Bosphorus Bridge Istanbul - Flickr - brewbooks.jpg|thumb|View of the Boğaziçi Bridge]] From the terminal at Eminonu, the public ferry starts east of the Galata Bridge cruising to Anadolu Kavagi at the northern entrance of the [[Istanbul/European Bosphorus|European Bosphorus]] to the [[Black Sea]] via various stops. The "Long Bosporus trip" (Uzun Boǧaz turu) is offered both by Sehir Hatlari (state owned) and private boats. Tickets can only be bought at the ticket booth around one hour prior to departure. The price is 640 TL for foreigners, both for the round trip and in one direction, with no discount for minors. The departure time is early (10:35) and is very popular, so arrive early and queue for a ticket (the ferry does not wait for people late to arrive to buy tickets). Touts for private ferry operators often attempt to sell alternative ferry tickets. They will attempt various tactics to make you feel uncomfortable, such as shifting the public ferry ticket office line to be in the hot sun and telling you that full cruise will waste a day of your stay in Istanbul. This is generally a scam, they will charge an extortionate rate, or a cheaper rate followed by an extortionate return fee. Note that the public ferry offers no audio commentary at all, it is very barebones and on you to spot sights of significance. The public ferry does not offer toilet paper and the washroom is generally in a deplorable state; you will need to bring your own toilet paper if needed and potentially wait in line for a great deal of time if you plan to use the washroom. There are various other private ferry companies offering various cruises. Compared to the public ferry, they will typically charge significantly higher prices but may offer audio commentary via a loudspeaker, a washroom with toilet paper or have a shorter line. The private ferries almost exclusively offer the short Bosphorus tours. The open decks are hugely popular on the weekends, so unless you have an outside seat expect people to be standing all around you constricting the view. The ferry waits some hours in Anadolu Kavagi so as you alight you are confronted by numerous restaurants and their spruikers. After landing at Anadolu Kavagi, take the walk to the Yoros Kalesi, a strategic castle overlooking and controlling the entry to the Black Sea. The area can be dangerous and hazardous without good shoes, but the direct footpath to the castle is paved all the way, only the last 10m to the viewing points aren't. This important fortification with a commanding view has been fought over for many years and was last in use in the 19th century. It has fallen into serious disrepair, but Christian engravings are still visible in the stonework. It has a spectacular view of the mouth of the Black Sea. There are restaurants actually in the castle surrounds, such as Yoros Cafe, and naturally have spectacular views but mediocre food and service. There is plenty of time left to wander back to the village for lunch. It is late afternoon before arrival back at Eminonu, but a day well spent. prese [[File:View from Rumeli Feneri Kalesi.jpg|thumb|View of a Black Sea Bay from Rumeli Feneri]] ====Bosphorus cruise with a public transport ferry==== Alternatively, you can also take the ordinary "vapur" ferry (number 10, one way for TL 42) which leaves from Eminönü to Sarıyer and Rumeli Kavaǧı (watch out for the sign "Boǧaz Hattı", i.e. Bosphorus line). It stops at several stations along the way and travels along the European coast. From the Sarıyer pier, you can take the Bus 150 to Rumeli Feneri. It leaves every 25 minutes or so. From there, you can enjoy the view of the Black Sea and the entrance of the Bosphorus, either from the lighthouse or from the viewpoint near the castle ("kale", closed as of Aug 2025). Rumeli Feneri also has some restaurants. Some locals swim at a rock beach below the lighthouse. You can go back either to Sirkeci İskelesi and take the ferry or stay on the bus as far as Haciosmanpaşa, where you can take the M2 metro line. From Sirkeci, there are also other bus lines (151, 154…) to other places on the Black Sea. ====The Golden Horn by ferry==== You can take a ferry from Eminönü or Karaköy to Eyüpsultan to see most of the Golden Horn from the boat. It has several stops on the way. ===City passes=== {{see | name=MegaPass Istanbul | alt= | url=https://megapass.com/turkey/istanbul/pass| email= | address=Gumussuyu, İnonu Cd. No 11 | directions=[[Istanbul/Galata]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€116–€284, depending on the pass | lastedit=2025-01-17 | content=MegaPass Istanbul offers several city pass options combining Bosphorus cruises, guided tours, and access to key attractions. Travelers can choose from: '''Classic City Pass''': Includes a Bosphorus cruise, guided Blue Mosque tour, transportation card with 5 rides, and access to two attractions. '''Premium City Pass''': Adds a hop-on hop-off bus tour, a Turkish bath experience, and access to four attractions. '''Deluxe City Pass''': Includes a dinner cruise, whirling dervish ceremony, and access to all listed attractions. The city passes are valid for 7 days from first use. }} === Sports === [[File:Vakifbanksk2018cl.jpg|thumb|Vakıfbank, one of the most successful teams in European women's volleyball, also the only perfect-season holder in the sport's history]] [[File:WTA Istanbul 2011 0008968 Nevit.jpg|thumb|WTA Tour at Sinan Erdem Dome]] Istanbul has six clubs playing in Süper Lig, the top tier of Turkish [[association football]]: Başakşehir, Beşiktaş, Eyüpspor, Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray (2000 UEFA Cup winner) and Kasımpaşa. The first three have always been in the top tier and have international reputations. Matches between these sides are played in front of fiercely partisan sell-out crowds; getting tickets requires booking way in advance. As the atmosphere is extremely hostile to the away teams, spectators should avoid wearing away team colours after the match, and avoid any signs of crowd trouble. The Turkish national stadium is Atatürk Olympic Stadium (''Atatürk Olimpiyat Stadı''), a 76,000-capacity arena at the western edge of the city, use either Olimpiyat or Olimpiyat Parkı metro station. It doesn't have a resident team, but several clubs have had spells here when their own stadium was unavailable. Istanbul also has a major basketball presence, with seven clubs set to play the 2024–25 season in the men's and four in the women's ''Basketbol Süper Ligi''. Several are basketball sections of major sports clubs. Fenerbahçe is one of two BSL clubs that have permanent licenses to compete in the EuroLeague, the continent's top men's club competition. It plays home games at the Ülker Sports and Event Hall (''Fenerbahçe Ülker Spor ve Etkinlik Salonu'') in the Ataşehir district, a few kilometers from the club's main base. Fenerbahçe also boasts a two times EuroLeague winner women's basketball section, which also plays in the Ülker arena. The other permanent EuroLeague participant is the standalone basketball club Anadolu Efes, playing at the city's largest indoor arena, Sinan Erdem Dome (''Sinan Erdem Spor Salonu'') in the Ataköy quarter of the Bakırköy district on the city's European side. Also competing in the BSL are EuroCup winners Darüşşafaka, and Galatasaray (playing at ''Abdi İpekçi Arena''), Bahçeşehir (which shares its arena with Fenerbahçe), Beşiktaş (playing at ''Akatlar'') and Büyükçekmece (which shares its arena with Anadolu Efes). Istanbulite teams have been dominating European women's volleyball (CEV) with solid contenders like VakıfBank, Eczacıbaşı, Fenerbahçe and Turkish Airlines -THY. Istanbul both hosts and is a frequent host in major tournaments such as Formula 1, WTA Tour, RedBull Flight Day, Tour of Turkey, Istanbul Marathon and Bosphorus Swim. Also, running clubs are very trendy there. You can get involved in daily trips by reaching out to them in social media. ==Learn== [[File:Bosphorus University.jpg|thumb|Boğaziçi University]] Boğaziçi University, one of the best <nowiki></nowiki> in Turkey, is consistently ranking among top 250 universities in the world. Some other high rankers are Istanbul Tech and Koç universities. One could also attend to hobby or vocational courses provided by the metropolitan municipality's ''Halk Eğitim Merkezi''. '''TEFL:''' Many foreigners living in Istanbul support themselves by [[teaching English]]. Finding a good teaching job is usually easier with a well-recognized certificate like the ones listed below: * '''[http://www.iti-istanbul.com ITI Istanbul]''' in 4. Levent runs Cambridge University's CELTA and DELTA courses year-round ===Turkish=== Many foreigners visiting or living in Istanbul decide to study Turkish formally in a language school. Some of the biggest and most respected Turkish language schools in Istanbul are: * [http://dilmer.com/ '''Dilmer'''] in Gümüşsuyu . * [http://iladil.com/ '''Iladil''' ]{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} in Fatih. * [http://tomer.ankara.edu.tr/taksim-subesi/ '''Tömer''']{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, Ankara University affiliated. * [http://turkishcourses.com '''Concept Languages''']{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} in Etiler. Both [http://boun.edu.tr/index_eng.html Boğaziçi University] and [http://bilgi.edu.tr/ Bilgi University] have well established '''Study Abroad''' programs in English for foreigners. ===Ottoman Turkish=== [[File:Istanbul asv2021-11 img66 Aynalıkavak Pavilion.jpg|thumb|Aynalıkavak Pavillon]] If you already speak Turkish, '''Ottoman Turkish''' may also be interesting to learn. Ottoman Turkish was the courtly form of Turkish spoken during the era of the Ottoman Empire, and is significantly different to the form of Turkish spoken today. Approximately 80% of Ottoman Turkish words were loanwords from other languages, mostly Arabic, Persian and French. After the fall of the Ottoman Empire and the establishment of the Republic of Turkey, language reforms were implemented, including the establishment of the ''Türk Dil Kurumu'' (Turkish Language Association), which is the official regulatory body of the Turkish language. This association, with a philosophy of linguistic purism, decided to cleanse the Turkish language of loanwords and replace them with more Turkic alternatives. As such, only about 14% of modern Turkish words are of foreign origin. Ottoman Turkish is the key to learning about Turkey's Ottoman past. With Ottoman Turkish, not only can you read historical archives, but you can also read Ottoman literature and letters dated back to the Ottoman period. In Istanbul, you can learn Ottoman Turkish from the following places: *'''İsmek''' [[Tel:+90 212 531 01 41|+90 212 531 01 41]] İskenderpaşa Mahallesi, Ahmediye Caddesi, Hacı Salih Efendi Sokak, 6 Fatih. *'''[http://tarihvakfi.org.tr/ Tarih Vakfı]{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' [[Tel:+90 212 522 02 02|+90 212 522 02 02]] Zindankapı Değirmen Sokak, 15 Eminönü. ==Work== [[File:Levent Skyline6.JPG|thumb|''La Defense'' of Istanbul; Levent]] There is always a high demand for qualified – and, to a lesser extent, unqualified – [[Teaching English|ESOL/EFL teachers]] in Istanbul. Many teachers work with private instructional companies. Others contract out on a freelance basis. Istanbul is Turkey's financial capital. All big investment banks, commercial banks, large foreign retail and consumer companies have offices in Istanbul. The business district has been coming up with high-rise buildings and business centers in the last decade. ==Buy== [[File:Istanbul, Turkey (November 2023) - 089.jpg|thumb|The Grand Bazaar]] ===Money=== Euro and US dollar are accepted at places frequented by tourists, but certain tourist attractions only accept liras. Currency exchanges (''döviz bürosu'') and banks are plentiful in Istanbul and offer extremely competitive exchange rates. If you are planning to visit Istanbul, bring hard foreign currency and exchange them after you arrive (not at the airport!), preferably at a bank or a currency exchange. Exchange rates at the airport are terrible, only in the city you well get excellent rates with a sell-buy-spread of about 1–2%. All major currencies are accepted as well, but rates are not that excellent. Exchange leftover lira directly before leaving, in many foreign countries it can be hard to get rid of them at a proper rate. ===Shopping=== {{seeDistricts}} Connecting east and west, the will to control the major trading routes was the reason why Istanbul was founded in the first place, so shopping should definitely not be overlooked in your Istanbul experience. Contrary to the rest of the world, shops in Istanbul are usually open during weekends. Most major shopping malls have security checkpoints you usually see in airports and museums prior to entry. ====What==== [[File:Istanbul 031 (6471527207).jpg|thumb|A shop selling delights, nuts and spices]] Here are some of what are popular to buy while in the city: * '''Turkish Delight''', or Lokum (as the locals call it) – A good buy since you're in Turkey. It is advisable to buy it fresh rather than in pre-packed boxes and to get a variety of flavours rather than the stereotypical rose-water or lemon flavors available abroad. Pistachio in particular is very good. The best place to buy lokum in Istanbul is from a store. Istiklal Caddesi in particular features a number of stores that sell Turkish sweets by the kilogram including lokum and helvah. There are quite a few shops selling Turkish Delight in the Grand Bazaar, although unless you are very good at haggling better prices can be found elsewhere. * '''Turkish Tea''' (çay, ''chai'') – The national drink of Turkey, brewed from leaves grown on the steep, verdant mountain slopes of Turkey's eastern Black Sea coast. Traditionally, Turkish tea is brewed samovar-style, with a small pot of very strong tea sitting on a larger vessel of boiling water. Pour a small amount of strong tea into a little tulip-shaped glass and cut it to the desired strength with hot water. Turks usually add cube sugar (never milk, although you can often get milk if you ask.) Having fresh, hot tea always available everywhere is one of life's splendid little luxuries in Turkey. Elma Çayı: apple tea, like hot apple juice (EHL-mah chah-yee) is the flavour of preference, although it's more for tourists; Turks prefer Siyah Çay (black tea). *'''Turkish Coffee''' – Roasted and then finely ground coffee beans are boiled in a pot (cezve), usually with sugar, and served in a cup where the grounds are allowed to settle. A classic of Turkish culture. Some people use the remaining coffee grounds to tell their fortune. *'''Nuts and Spices''' – A wide selection can be found in ''Spice Bazaar'' and other central spots such as Üsküdar. * '''Rugs and kilims''' – Can be a good buy while in the city. Most rug-specialized stores in the city, though, are aimed at tourist trade, so pick up basics of [[bargaining]] to avoid being ripped off at these stores. They are mostly located around [[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old City|Sultanahmet]]. * '''Jewelry''' – Istanbul has exceptional handicraft from both Armenian and Turkish craftsmen, making it one of the top places for buying jewelry while having unique items such as ''chalcedony'' semi-precious gemstone named after the nearby town of Chalcedon, and is sold in many of Istanbul's multitude of jewelery shops. ====Where==== Istanbul's [https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/sep/06/istanbul Ottoman '''bazaars''']<!--If the link is against WV policies, please leave it hidden at least. So, editors can get an overview of the most important markets, and potentially create a more helpful overview for this chapter.--> with an oriental ambiance, once sitting firmly on the western terminii of the [[Silk Road]] and spice routes, are all located in the [[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old City| peninsula of the Old City]]. Note, many are very touristy nowadays, and they are good for taking some nice pictures. But shopping should only be done where the tourist-local ratio is very low, e.g. prices at the Spice Market (Eminönü) are twice or triple as high as in the rest of the city. On the other hand, '''modern shopping malls''' (''alışveriş merkezi'', usually shortened to ''AVM''), popping all around the city since the 1990s, are mostly to be found in [[Istanbul/Eastern Suburbs|eastern]] and the [[Istanbul/Western Suburbs|western suburbs]], though they are by no means exclusively located in these districts. Textile wholesale business is concentrated in [[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old City#Laleli|Laleli]], while upscale fashion retail in [[Istanbul/New City|Nişantaşı]] in the European Side and [[Istanbul/Kadikoy|Bağdat Avenue]] in the Asian Side. ==Eat== {{seeDistricts}} For a full-on culinary experience, one should look for ''esnaf lokantası'' restaurants. They are essentially old-school canteens with a variety of traditional selections from soups to main courses to desserts. ===Snacks=== [[File:Istanbul Fish Sandwiches.JPG|thumb|right|''Balık ekmek'' eatery on the waterfront of Eminönü]] [[File:Kokoreç.JPG|thumb|A typical ''Kokoreç'' cart]] [[File:20131202 Istanbul 115.jpg|thumb|A corn and chestnut vendor]] * '''Balık-Ekmek'''. Balik-Ekmek (literally "fish and bread") consists of freshly grilled fish, typically mackerel, served in a crusty bread roll with lettuce, onions, and sometimes tomatoes, often accompanied by a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of spices. It’s a flavorful and iconic snack often enjoyed by the waterfront. * '''Boiled and roasted corn on the cob''' is sold from carts around the city, and is a fantastic snack to walk around. Price varies from cart to cart and area of the city. * '''Döner:''' A beloved Turkish dish made from seasoned meat (such as lamb, chicken, or beef) cooked on a vertical rotisserie. Thin slices are shaved off as the outer layer roasts and are served in various forms—wrapped in flatbread (dürüm), stuffed into a sandwich, or plated with rice and salad. It's a staple of Turkish cuisine and a global street food favorite. * '''Dürüm Kebap:''' Dürüm kebaps are a type of Turkish wrap where grilled meat, such as Adana (spiced minced meat), ciğer (liver) or şiş (skewered chunks), is wrapped in thin flatbread, like lavash or yufka. They're typically accompanied by vegetables, herbs, and sauces, offering a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy kebabs on the go. * '''Freshly squeezed juice and juice blends''' are sold from stands and small shops all around the city and are a refreshing treat (especially in the warmer months). The combinations range from a simple orange juice to the rarer options like pomegranate or kiwi. Price varies from shop to shop, area of the city and complexity of your order. * '''Islak Hamburger & Patso''' Islak or 'Wet' Burger is a Turkish street food classic featuring a soft bun and a meat patty drenched in a garlicky, tomato-based sauce, then steamed to give it a moist, flavorful texture. Patso is a popular Turkish snack, consisting of a sandwich filled with French fries, often accompanied by ketchup, mayonnaise, or sausage slices, making it a simple yet satisfying fast-food treat. * '''Kokoreç:''' A traditional Turkish street food made from seasoned and skewered lamb or goat intestines, wrapped around sweetbreads, and grilled over charcoal. It is typically chopped, mixed with spices, and served in bread or on a plate, offering a flavorful and aromatic experience. *'''Kumpir:''' It consists of a baked potato with various fillings such as grated cheese, mayonnaise, ketchup, pickles, sliced red cabbage, sweetcorn, sausage slices, carrots, mushrooms, and Russian salad among others, any of which can be added to or omitted from the mix. While ''kumpir'' can be had at many cafes throughout the city, it is best had from one of the cafes in [[Istanbul/European Bosphorus|Ortaköy]], which have a long tradition of preparing ''kumpir'' and offer really filling and tasty ones. * '''Lahmacun & Pide:''' Lahmacun or 'Turkish Pizza' is a thin, round Turkish flatbread topped with a mixture of minced meat, herbs, and spices, often served with lemon and parsley for rolling and eating like a wrap. Pide is a boat-shaped Turkish flatbread filled with various toppings such as cheese, minced meat, vegetables, or eggs, baked to a golden crisp. Both are often served sprinkled with lemon juice and wrapped around vegetables, including pickles, tomatoes, peppers, onions, lettuce. * '''Roasted chestnuts''' are sold from carts around the city and is a very nice snack to have when the weather is cold, as it keeps your hands warm. Most commonly eaten in winter time, but they are available year-round. * '''Poğaça & Simit:''' Poğaça is a soft, fluffy Turkish pastry made with yeast or baking powder, often filled with ingredients like cheese, olives, or potatoes. Simit is a sesame-crusted Turkish bread ring, similar to a bagel but lighter and crunchier. It's typically enjoyed as a street snack, paired with tea, cheese, or jam. Both are staples of Turkish bakery culture and frequently sold on street carts. Also, some '''şerbet''', which is mainly sold by peddlers around touristic areas. They usually wear traditional clothing and back–barrels. ==Drink== {{seeDistricts}} [[File:Istanbul photos by J.Lubbock 2014 91.jpg|thumb|A street in [[Istanbul/Kadikoy|Kadıköy]]]] ''Meyhanes'' are taverns which originated in Ottoman times. They come in both 'traditional' and 'modern' accents, some even with some belly dancing. One could find them mostly on the seaside districts of both sides. *'''[[Istanbul/European Bosphorus|Bebek]]''' is a small town on the European Bosphorus, 10 km north of downtown, with fancy restaurants and bars. Great place to have a walk on the seaside after a nice dinner. *'''[[Istanbul/Asian Side |Bağdat Caddesi]]''' is a very long avenue full of good restaurants, boutiques and high-end stores on the south Anatolia side of Istanbul. *'''[[Istanbul/Galata|Beyoğlu]]''' has lively night life, with cafes and bars with live music. *'''[[Istanbul/Kadikoy|Kadıköy]]''' also has a compact nightlife scene, serving mostly locals of this part of the city. It's easy-going, with local pubs and wine houses. *'''[[Karaköy]]''' is the rising star of the city, with its underground parties with views over the Marmara Sea. *'''[[Istanbul/New City|Nişantaşı]]''' is the place for young entrepreneurs and artists, but prices are higher than in Taksim. '''Nightclubs''' are found all over the city, but most popular ones are in '''[[Istanbul/Galata|Pera]]''' and '''[[Istanbul/European Bosphorus|Ortaköy]]'''. ==Sleep== {{seeDistricts}} [[File:Taksim square after rain.jpg|thumb|Taksim Square]] In general, it is possible to find some kind of accommodation in any part of Istanbul. Here is a quick list of the areas where they are concentrated most: *'''[[Istanbul/New City|Harbiye]]''' is a popular place to stay; it's close to the main centre of the new city on the European side, and contains a variety of international standard apartments, hotels, and moderate hotels for budget travelers. Nişantaşı and Taksim are quite close so you can stay in Harbiye and benefit from all activities in those areas. *'''[[Istanbul/Galata|Taksim]]''' is the main centre of the city on the European side. Locals and tourists go to Taksim for shopping and entertainment, and it has moderate hotels for budget travelers. There are also hostels in this area. *'''[[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old City|Sultanahmet]]''' the main centre for the old city on the European side. It has a selection of quality, reasonably priced hotels, many with terraces overlooking the Golden Horn, or with views of the Marmara Sea and the Blue Mosque. Most hostel-type accommodation frequented by independent travellers are located in this district, although it is possible to find a few upmarket hotels. *Upscale hotels can be found in the '''[[Istanbul/Western Suburbs|western suburbs]]''', especially around the former airport, as well as on or near the banks of the '''[[Istanbul/European Bosphorus|European Bosphorus]]'''. *[[Car camping|Caravan parks]] exist in Ahırkapı south of Sultanahmet, in Maltepe in the [[Istanbul/Eastern Suburbs|Maltepe]] and in the outlying villages on both sides of the Bosphorus. ==Stay safe== [[File:Turkish Police Ferrari 488 GTB.jpg|thumb|Don't try to outrun them...]] * In Istanbul, most '''drivers''' won't abide any rules. Even if you have priority on a road junction, crosswalk, or even during green light, always be aware of your surroundings. Even if you are in a one way road, check both sides before crossing the road. It is common for Turkish drivers to use shortcuts. * A major '''earthquake''' with epicenter in the nearby Sea of Marmara is expected within the next few decades, so read the [[Earthquake safety|earthquake safety article]] before you arrive. * If prices are not on display, always ask beforehand (even for a tea) instead of just ordering something like in Europe. This can be fatal in Istanbul because '''tourists are constantly overcharged'''. Unfortunately, often prices are not on display, like in sweet shops or even restaurants. Skip these places or ask for a price knowing what the approximate or fair price is. * Istanbul is home to three of the biggest clubs in Turkey and maybe European '''football''': Beşiktaş, Fenerbahçe, and Galatasaray. It is advisable not to wear your jersey on the days of matches between the sides due to the fearsome rivalry they share. If you are supporting the away team whenever the Turkish national team plays in Istanbul, '''be very careful''' as violent attacks on fans and players of the opposing team have been known to occur. ===Scams=== [[File:Palacio de Dolmabahçe, Estambul, Turquía, 2024-09-28, DD 113.jpg|thumb|Dolmabahçe Palace]] ====Bar and club scams==== High-drink price [[scams]] encountered in so-called night-clubs mostly located in Aksaray, Beyazit and Taksim areas. These clubs usually charge overpriced bills, based on a replica of the original menu, or simply on the menu that had been standing upside down on the table. Two or three drinks can already produce a fantasy bill. Also be aware of friendly behaving groups of young men or male-female couples striking up a conversation in the street and inviting you to a "good nightclub they know". This has frequently been reported as a prelude to such a scam. The people in on the scam may offer to take you to dinner first, in order to lower your suspicions. Another way they will try to lure you in is by talking to you in Turkish, and when you mumble back in your language they will be surprised you're not Turkish and immediately will feel the urge to repay you for their accident with a beer. Another variant of this involves an invitation in Taksim to male tourists to buy them beer (as they were "guests"). At the club, attractive women, also with beers, join them. When the bill comes, the person inviting the tourists denies having said he would pay for the drinks, and a large bill is presented, when the tourists object, burly "security" personnel emerge to accompany the tourists to an ATM (presumably to clean out their bank account). Any bar that looks like it could be a strip club is more than likely a scam joint. In either of these scams, if you refuse to pay the high prices or try to call the police (dial #112) to file a complaint, the club managers may use physical intimidation to bring the impasse to a close. If you find yourself in such a situation for any reason, you should do whatever they want you to do, pay the bill, buy the things they are forcing you to buy, etc. Try to get out of the situation as soon as possible, go to a safe place and call the police. ====Blue Mosque scam "guides"==== [[File:Hagia Triada Greek Orthodox Church 6353.jpg|thumb|Hagia Triada]] When walking through the gates of the Blue Mosque, beware of smiling, friendly chaps who offer immediately to be your de-facto guide through the mosque and its surrounds; they'd be pretty informative on just about anything relating to the mosque; etiquette, history and Islamic practices. However, they eventually demand a price for their "services". You would be better off booking a private tour online; or not at all, since the mosque is essentially free to all anyway. ====Lira/euro scams==== [[File:Küçüksu Palace exterior NW side in 2014 8853.jpg|thumb|Küçüksu Palace]] A frequent scam, often in smaller hotels (but it can also happen in a variety of other contexts), is to quote prices in lira and then later, when payment is due, claim the price was given in euros. Hotels which reject payment early in a stay and prefer you to "pay when you leave" should raise suspicions. Hotels which operate this scam often offer excellent service and accommodation at a reasonable price and know most guests will conclude as much and pay without complaint - thus this can be a sign of a good hotel. Another scam is coin-related and happens just as you're walking into the streets. A Turkish guy holds you and asks where you are from. If you mention a euro-country, the guy wants you to change a €50-note from you into €2-coins he is showing. He is holding the coins stack-wise in his hands. For the trouble, he says he will offer you '30 €2-coins, making €60 in total'. Do not agree with this exchange of money, as the first coin is indeed a €2-coin, but (many of) the rest of the coins will probably be 1-lira coins (looking very similar), but worth only 1/100 of the value of €2. Many bars in the Taksim area give you counterfeit bills. They are usually well-made and hard to identify as fakes in the dark. One way to verify a bill's authenticity is to check its size against another one. Another is to hold the bill up to a strong light, face side up, and check for an outline of the same face which is on the bill. The value of the bill (20, 50, etc.) should appear next to the outline, light and translucent. If either of these two security features are missing, try to have the bill changed or speak to the police. Some taxi drivers agree on a price only to tell you your lira bills are counterfeit, or invalid, or have a wrong serial number. This is a scam to have you paying in Euro or USD, usually for a much higher price since they'll claim they don't have change. ====Restaurant scams==== [[File:Bulgarian St. Stephen Church 2 (2020).jpg|thumb|St. Stephen's or Iron Church.]] A notable scam for convincing tourists to visit overpriced restaurants with mediocre food involves the following: While walking along, you are overtaken by a Turkish man who claims to recognize you from the hotel at which you are staying (e.g. he will tell you that he works there as a waiter or a receptionist). He will ask where you are going. If you are going out for food, he will recommend a restaurant, claiming that it is where he takes his family or friends when they eat out. He may give you some other advice (e.g. the best time to visit the Topkapi palace) to make the conversation feel genuine and friendly. The restaurant he recommends will almost certainly be mediocre or low quality, and the staff there will try to sell you expensive dishes without you realizing. For instance, they may promote dishes which are marked as 'MP' (market price) on the menu, such as 'salt fish' (fish baked in salt). They may also serve you additional dishes which you haven't ordered and then add them to the bill for an additional money, together with extra charges for service and tax. In Taksim, a variety of restaurateurs have taken to literally grabbing your arm and pleading with you in a friendly demeanour to eat at their restaurants. If a restaurateur is resorting to aggressive tout tactics, you are obviously being scammed. ====Shoe shine scam==== [[File:Beylerbeyi Palace 8920.jpg|thumb|Beylerbeyi Palace]] Some men will walk around tourist-frequented areas with a shoeshine kit, and the brush will fall off right in front of a tourist or group of tourists. This will cause the tourist with a conscience to pick up the brush and return it to the owner. He will then express gratitude and offer to shine your shoes for free. While doing that, he will talk about how he is from another city, that he is poor, and how he has a sick child or wife. At the end, the shiner will demand a hefty price for its "free" services, way beyond the actual market norm. Many tourists will pay up out of guilt; don't do that, as it will just encourage them! A similar trick is getting asked for a cigarette, after which the scammer will proceed similarly. ====Taxi drivers==== [[File:Istanbul, Fethiye Mosque (Pammakaristos) DSCF5113 (46829264034).jpg|thumb|Pammakristos Church - Fethiye Mosque.]] Taxis are plentiful in Istanbul and inexpensive by Western European and American standards. They can be picked up at taxi hubs throughout the city or on the streets. Empty cabs on the streets will honk at pedestrians to see if they would like a ride, or cabs can be hailed by pedestrians by making eye contact with the driver and waving. Few taxi drivers speak languages other than Turkish, but do a fair job at deciphering mispronounced location names given by foreign riders. It is advisable to have the name of the destination written down and try to have a map beforehand to show the driver, to avoid any misunderstanding and also potential scams. Though taxis are plentiful, be aware that taxis are harder to find during peak traffic hours and traffic jams and when it is raining and snowing. They are also less frequent during nights, depending on the area and are hard to find after midnight. Try to avoid using taxis for short distances (5–10 minutes of walk) if possible. Some taxi drivers can be annoyed with this, especially if you called the cab from a taxi hub instead of hailing it from the street. If you want taxis for short distances, just hail them from the street, do not go to the taxi hub. Few taxis have seatbelts, and some drivers may seem to be reckless. If you wish for the driver to slow down, say "yavash lütfen" (slow please). Your request may or may not be honored. As in any major city, tourists are more vulnerable to taxi scams than locals. Be aware that taxi drivers use cars affiliated with a particular hub, and that the name and phone number of the hub, as well as the license plate number, are written on the side of each car. Noting or photographing this information may be useful if you run into problems. In general, riding in taxis affiliated with major hotels (Hilton, Marriot, Ritz, etc.) is safe, and it is not necessary to stay in these hotels to use a taxis leaving from their hubs. Others may take unnecessarily long routes to increase the amount due (although sometimes alternate routes are also taken to avoid Istanbul traffic, which can be very bad). Some scams involve the payment transaction; for example, if the rider pays 50 TL when only 20 TL are needed, the driver may quickly switch it with a 5 TL note and insist that the rest of the 20 TL is still due or may switch the real bill for a fake one and insist that different money be given. Methods to avoid taxi scams: [[File:Yeni Valide mosque, Üsküdar 2.JPG|thumb|Yeni Valide Complex]] 1. '''Sit in the front passenger seat'''. Watch the meter. Watch the driver's actions (beeping the horn, pumping the brakes, etc.) and note what the taximeter does. While it is rare, some drivers will wire parts of their controls to increase the fare upon activation. If you're with your significant other, '''do it anyway'''. Save the cuddling for after the ride. Check if the seal on the taximeter is broken. Use your phone for light. This will make the driver realize that you are cautious. For women it is better to sit in the back seat (where you can see the meter from the middle), as there are occasionally problems with taxi drivers getting overly friendly, and sitting in the front is a sign that a woman welcomes such behavior. 2. '''Ask "How much to go to...?" (basic English is understood), before getting in the taxi'''. Price will be quite accurate to the one in the taximeter at the end of the ride. If the price sounds ok for you, get in the cab and tell them to put the Taximeter on. The rate they are applying is same during night and day. 3. '''Know the route.''' If you have a chance, find a map and demand that the driver take your chosen route to the destination. Oftentimes they will drive the long way or pretend not to know where you're going in order to get more money out of you. If the driver claims not to know the route to a major landmark or gathering place, refuse his services as he is likely lying. 4. '''Choose an elderly driver.''' Elderly taxi drivers are less likely to cheat passengers. 5. Let taxi driver see money on your hands and show values and take commitment on it. This is 50 lira. OK? Take this 50 lira and give 30 lira back OK?. This guarantees your money value. Otherwise, your 50 lira can be 5 lira immediately on his hands. Try to have always 10 lira or 20 lira bills in your wallet. This makes money scams in general more difficult. If you realize that the driver tried to use the 50 lira to 5 lira trick on you, call the police (#155) immediately and write down the license plate. If a driver claims not to have change, you may want to consider sitting in the taxi and pointing to a nearby shop to have them break their bills there. This will usually cause them to magically find the necessary change, or frustrate them into accepting a lower fare. 6. Create a big scene if there is a problem. If you are absolutely positive you have been subject to a scam, threaten to or call the police and, if you feel it will help, start yelling. Taxi drivers will only rip off those they think will fall for it; creating a scene draws attention to them and will make it easier to pay the correct rate. <nowiki>'''</nowiki>Airport transfers<nowiki>'''</nowiki> are the most consistently reported overcharging point, and they are separate from the in-city taxis above. From both İstanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW), use only the official taxi rank — drivers who approach you inside the terminal are unregulated — and insist the meter ("taksimetre") is running. The simplest way to avoid the haggling entirely is the fixed-fare <nowiki>'''</nowiki>Havaİst<nowiki>'''</nowiki> airport buses, which serve both airports, or, from IST, the <nowiki>'''</nowiki>M11 metro<nowiki>'''</nowiki> toward the city; both have set, published fares. ===Overpricing=== [[File:İstanbul 5717.jpg|thumb|Yıldız Palace]] Watch the menu carefully in street cafes for signs that prices are not discriminatory — if prices are clearly over-inflated, simply leave. A good indication of over inflation is the circulation of two different types of menu — the "foreigner" menu is typically printed on a laminated card with menu prices written in laundry marker/texta, i.e., prices not be printed; in these cases, expect that prices for foreigners will be highly inflated (300% or higher). While this is not really a problem in [[Istanbul/Galata|Beyoğlu]] or [[Istanbul/European Bosphorus|Ortaköy]], avoiding the open air cafes toward the rear courtyard of the Spice Bazaar ([[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old City|Sultanahmet]]) is wise. The area immediately north of the Spice Bazaar is also crawling with touts for these 'infamous' cafes. Having nargile (water pipe) is a famous activity in Istanbul,Tophane (top-hane) is a famous location for this activity where a huge number of nargile shops are available and can easily be reached by the tram, avoiding a place called "Ali Baba" in Tophane is wise, usually you will be served there with plates you did not ask for like a nuts plate, and expect to have a bill of around US$50 for your nargile! ===Pickpockets=== [[File:Istanbul asv2021-11 img71 StAnthony of Padua Church.jpg|thumb|St. Anthony of Padua Cathedral]] As with most European cities, but especially in crowded areas of Istanbul, watch your pockets and travel documents as '''pickpockets''' have devised all sorts of strategies to obtain them from you. Do not rely too much on the 'safe' feeling you get from the omnipresence of police. Also be wary of men in Taksim who splash water on the backs of your neck. When you turn around, they will try to start a fight with you as another man comes in and robs you. These men tend to carry knives and can be very dangerous. The public transportation is also prone to pickpocketing because they are chaotic and frequented by tourists. The pickpocketing is generally unrelated to the scam artist operations. You should be especially careful to place your wallet in your front pocket here and to be mindful of your belongings. If someone touches you or places their hand on your shoulder at any point while in or near the Metro system, you are being pickpocketed and you should immediately turn in an unexpected direction, especially if you have belongings in your back pocket. ===Stalking=== [[File:Hıdiv Kasrı.jpg|thumb|Hıdiv (Khedive) Palace]] There were some instances of men stalking foreign women may be present in tourist locations. Such men may presume that foreigners have a lot of money or liberal values and may approach foreign women in a flirtatious or forward manner looking for sex or for money (either by theft or selling over-priced goods). If you are being harassed, use common sense and go to where other people are; often this is the nearest store. Creating a public scene will deter many stalkers, and these phrases may be useful in such cases: *''İmdat!'' &ndash; "Help!" *''Ayıp!'' &ndash; "Rude!" *''Bırak beni!'' &ndash; "Leave me alone!" *''Dur!'' &ndash; "Stop!" *''Gider misin?!'' &ndash; "Will you go?!" Or to really ruin him: *''Beni takip etme!'' &ndash; "Stop stalking me!" *''Polisi arıyorum'' &ndash; "I'm calling the cops!" Occasionally try not to use Turkish as the stalker will like it more, just scream and run and find a safer place with crowd and police. ===Tourism Police=== Istanbul PD has a "Tourism Police" unit where travelers may report passport loss and theft or any other crime they are victimized by. They have an office in [[Istanbul/Sultanahmet-Old City|Sultanahmet]] and can reportedly speak English, German, French, Arabic and Russian. * {{listing | name=Tourism Police | alt=Turizm Polisi | url=https://www.instagram.com/istanbultourismpolice/?hl=en | email=istanbulturizm@egm.gov.tr | address=Divan Yolu Cd | lat=41.00774 | long=28.97703 | directions={{rint|istanbul|t1}} Sultanahmet 130 m | phone=+90 212 527 45 03 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Stay healthy== [[File:Istanbul, fontana di tophane, 1732, 01.jpg|thumb|Tophane Fountain]] Tap water may not be safe depending on where you drink it. Although the tap water itself is clean, many local water tanks are not maintained properly, and one should try to avoid tap water if possible. Locals widely prefer bottled water and the same applies for the restaurants. Expect to pay for water in restaurants. Although there are fountains nearly everywhere. Food and drinks are mostly of international standards. Some Turkish foods are known to use a variety of spices which may affect international tourists who may not be accustomed to such ingredients, although most of it is edible for any tongue. Use common sense when buying certain foods, particularly from street vendors. Delicacies such as "Firin Sutlac" (a kind of rice pudding) can go bad rapidly on a hot day, as can the oysters occasionally for sale on the streets. ==Connect== [[File:Torre Çamlıca, Estambul, Turquía, 2024-09-29, DD 25.jpg|thumb|Çamlıca TV Tower]] ''For general information on SIM cards, Wi-Fi and Internet see the [[Turkey#Connect|country article]].'' ===Telephone codes=== Istanbul is the only city or province in Turkey that uses multiple area codes: '''212''' for the European side, '''216''' for the Asian side and Princes' Islands. When calling from one continent to the other, you need to dial as if it’s an intercity call: ''0+area code (212 or 216)+7-digit telephone number''. It may appear as an intercity call, but is charged at local rate. Without the area code, your call will ''not'' be automatically routed to the number in the other continent, and much of the number sets are used on both sides of the Bosphorus. When calling landlines from mobile, you have to dial the area code regardless of the continent you are in. ===Mobile=== Istanbul has 4G from all Turkish carriers. 5G is rolled out only in particular places with full launch expected at 2026. Metropolitan Municipality has an app for iOS and Android phones. Free WiFi could be found on squares and buses. The buses also have USB outlets for charging. ==Cope== Istanbul's less-than-scrupulous hotel and restaurant owners are as market savvy as they come—they read the popular travel guides to Istanbul and when they get listed or favorably reviewed, they raise prices through the roof and skimp on costs. For mid-range and cheap hotels/restaurants, you may have a better time if you avoid places listed in the most popular guidebooks. Trust your nose. ===Consulates=== [[File:Consulate-General of Belgium in Istanbul.jpg|thumb|Belgian consulate]] Many of the consulates in Istanbul are housed in elegant and imposing buildings dating back to the previous centuries, when they served as embassies to the Ottoman Empire, before its collapse and the move of the capital to Ankara by the then-newly established republic. An interesting fact about them is that they are all located in the Beyoğlu area with one exception, the [[Iran]]ian consulate, as the imperial authorities did not allow representatives from non-Muslim lands to be based within the official borders of the city at that time, which more or less equaled to the peninsula of the Old City. {| |- | style="vertical-align:top;width:50%;" | * {{flag|Argentina}} {{listing | name=Argentina | url= | email= | address=Tepecik Yolu 58, Etiler | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 257-70-50 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Australia}} {{listing | name=Australia | url= | email= | address=Asker Ocağı Cd 15, Elmadağ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 243-13-33 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Austria}} {{listing | name=Austria | url=http://www.aussenministerium.at/istanbulgk | email= | address=Köybaşı Cd 46, Yeniköy | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 363-84-10 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Azerbaijan}} {{listing | name=Azerbaijan | url=https://istanbul.mfa.gov.az | email=istanbul@mission.mfa.gov.az | address=Zeytinoğlu Cd 65, Akatlar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 850 800 0515 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Belgium}} {{listing | name=Belgium | url=http://diplomatie.be/istanbul/ | email= | address=Sıraselviler Cd 39, Taksim | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 243-33-00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Brazil}} {{listing | name=Brazil | url=http://istambul.itamaraty.gov.br/pt-br/ | email=cg.istambul@itamaraty.gov.br | address=Askeroğacı Cd 6, Süzer Plaza 4th floor, Elmadağ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 252-00-13 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Bulgaria}} {{listing | name=Bulgaria | url=http://www.bulgarianconsulate-ist.org/ | email= | address=Ahmet Adnan Saygun Cd 44, Ulus-Levent | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 281-01-15 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Canada}} {{listing | name=Canada | url=http://turkey.gc.ca | email= | address=İstiklal Cd 189/5, Beyoğlu | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 251-98-38 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|China}} {{listing | name=China | url=http://istanbul.china-consulate.org/ | email=chinaconsul_ist_tr@mfa.gov.cn | address=Ahi Çelebi Cd Çobançeşme Sk 4, Tarabya | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 299-21-88 | tollfree= | fax=+90 212 299-26-33 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Denmark}} {{listing | name=Denmark | url=http://tyrkiet.um.dk/en.aspx | email=istglk@um.dk | address=Büyükdere Cd 1, Trump Towers, Kule 2, D. 463 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 359-19-00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Finland}} {{listing | name=Finland | url=http://www.finland.org.tr/ | email= | address=Cumhuriyet Cd 71, 8th floor, Elmadağ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 296-95-49 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|France}} {{listing | name=France | url=http://consulfrance-istanbul.org/ | email= | address=İstiklal Cd 4, Beyoğlu-Taksim | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 334-87-30 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany | url=http://istanbul.diplo.de/ | email= | address=İnönü Cd 10, Gümüşsuyu-Taksim | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 334-61-00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Greece}} {{listing | name=Greece | url=http://www.mfa.gr/turkey/tr/consulate-general-in-istanbul| email=grgencon.kon@mfa.gr | address=Turnacıbaşı Sk 22, Beyoğlu | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 393-82-90 | tollfree= | fax=+90 212 252-13-65 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|India}} {{listing | name=India | alt= | url=https://cgiistanbul.gov.in/| email= | address=Cumhuriyet Cd 18, Dörtler Apt 7th floor, Elmadağ | lat=28.9869865 | long=41.0427621 | directions= | phone=+90 212 296-21-31 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Indonesia}} {{listing | name=Indonesia | url=https://www.kemlu.go.id/istanbul/en/default.aspx?l=id | email=istanbul.kjri@kemlu.go.id | address=Esentepe Mh, Keskin Kalem Sk 13, Şişli | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 674-8686 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Iran}} {{listing | name=Iran | url= | email= | address=Ankara Cd 1, Cağaloğlu | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 513-82-30 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} | style="vertical-align:top;width:50%;" | * {{flag|Italy}} {{listing | name=Italy | url=http://www.consistanbul.esteri.it/Consolato_Istanbul | email= | address=Tomtom Kaptan Sk 5, Beyoğlu | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 243-10-24 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} *{{flag|Japan}} {{listing | name=Japan | url=http://www.istanbul.tr.emb-japan.go.jp/ | email= | address=Büyükdere Cd 209, Tekfen Tower 10th, 4.Levent | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 317-4600 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=}} * {{flag|South Korea}} {{listing | name=Republic of Korea | url=http://www.korekonsoloslugu.com/istanbul-baskonsoloslugu/ | email= | address=Piyalepaşa Blv 73, Ortadoğu Plaza, 18th floor, Okmeydanı | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 368-83-68 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Netherlands}} {{listing | name=Netherlands | alt= | url=https://www.netherlandsandyou.nl/your-country-and-the-netherlands/turkey/about-us/consulate-general-in-istanbul | email= | address=İstiklal Cd 197, Beyoğlu | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 393-21-21 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|New Zealand}} {{listing | name=New Zealand | url=http://www.nzembassy.com/turkey | email= | address=İnönü Cd 48/3, Taksim | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 244-02-72 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|North Macedonia}} {{listing | name=North Macedonia | url= | email=istanbul@mfa.gov.mk | address=İnönü Cd 20/5 Üçler Apt, Gümüşsuyu-Taksim | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 251-22-33 | tollfree= | fax=+90 212 293-77-65 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Norway}} {{listing | name=Norway | url=http://norway.org.tr/ | email= | address=Bilezik Sk 4, Fındıklı | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 249-97-53 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Pakistan}} {{listing | name=Pakistan | url= | email= | address=Cengiz Topal Cd Gülşen Sk 5, Beyaz Ev 3. Etiler | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 358-45-06 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Poland}} {{listing | name=Poland | url=http://www.stambul.msz.gov.pl/ | email=stambul.kg.konsulat@msz.gov.pl | address=Ayazağa Köyü Yolu 7, Giz 2000 Plaza 5th floor, Maslak | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 290-66-30 | tollfree= | fax=+90 212 290-66-32 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Romania}} {{listing | name=Romania | alt= | url=http://istanbul.mae.ro/en | email=istanbul@mae.ro | address=Yanarsu Sk, Narin Sitesi 42, Etiler | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 358-05-15 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-12-03 | content= }} * {{flag|Russia}} {{listing | name=Russia | url= | email= | address=İstiklal Cd 443, Beyoğlu | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 292-51-01 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Spain}} {{listing | name=Spain | url=http://www.exteriores.gob.es/consulados/estambul| email=cog.estambul@maec.es | address=Karanfil Aralığı Sk 16, 1. Levent | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 270-74-10 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Sweden}} {{listing | name=Sweden | url=http://swedenabroad.com/Start____9208.aspx | email= | address=İstiklal Cd 247, Beyoğlu | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 334-06-00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Switzerland}} {{listing | name=Switzerland | url=http://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home/reps/eur/vtur/cgist.html | email= | address=Büyükdere Cd 173, 1.Levent Plaza A-Blok 3rd floor, Levent | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 283-12-82 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Syria}} {{listing | name=Syria | url= | email= | address=Maçka Cd 59/3, Teşvikiye | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 232-67-21 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|United Kingdom}} {{listing | name=United Kingdom | url=http://www.gov.uk/government/world/organisations/british-consulate-general | email=britembcon@fco.gov.uk | address=Meşrutiyet Cd 34, Tepebaşı-Beyoğlu | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 334-64-00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States | alt= | url=https://tr.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/istanbul/ | email= | address=İstinye Mh, Kaplıcalar Mevkii 2, İstinye | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 212 335-90-00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} |} ==Go next== ===West=== The area of European Turkey to the west of Istanbul is called [[Eastern Thrace|Thrace]]. It has many historic towns with Byzantine and Ottoman heritage. * [[Edirne]], two hours to the northwest, is a beautiful historic city, and was the Ottoman capital before power moved to Istanbul. You need at least a day here. A slow scenic route winds north via [[Kıyıköy]], ancient Medea, a fisherman's village on the Black Sea with some traditional architecture, partially rebuilt ancient city walls and a nearby rock-cut monastery. The next town on that route is [[Vize]], an old town with a well preserved Byzantine cathedral. * Head into Western Europe either via [[Sofia]] in Bulgaria or [[Bucharest]] in Romania. * Or perhaps you can follow the ancient [[Via Egnatia]] all the way to the Adriatic and across to [[Rome]]. ===South=== * The [[Marmara Islands]] are across the sea, much further away and less urban than the Princes Islands just offshore of the city. * [[Bursa]] to the southeast is a former Ottoman capital with many historical sights plus [[Uludağ|Uludağ National Park]] just south. [[İznik]], rich in Byzantine, Seljuk, and early Ottoman heritage, is worth a detour on the way. * A scenic route towards [[Izmir]] is to head west then south into the [[Gallipoli]] peninsula, with its World War I sites, cross the Dardanelles to [[Çanakkale]], then past ancient [[Troy (Turkey)|Troy]] and [[Bergama|Pergamon (Bergama)]]. A short ferry-ride brings you to the charming island of [[Bozcaada]]. For more detailed descriptions, see [[Istanbul to Izmir]]. ===East=== In Istanbul you've only stepped on the threshold of Asian Turkey. Continue east across Anatolia for so much more: rejuvenated [[Ankara]], unworldly [[Cappadocia]], surreal [[Kahta|Mount Nemrut]], faraway [[Kars]]. And further still across the lands of the former Ottoman Empire: follow in the footsteps of [[Silk Road|ancient traders]], [[On the trail of Marco Polo|medieval travellers]], [[From Istanbul to Cairo|pilgrims]], and [[Istanbul to New Delhi over land|hippies]]. {{routebox | image1=E80-TR.png | imagesize1=40 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Edirne]] | minorl1=[[Istanbul Airport|IST]] [[File:IST-Airport.svg|13px]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Ankara]] ([[File:E89-TR.png|35px]]) | minorr1=[[Sabiha Gökçen International Airport|SAW]] [[File:IST-Airport.svg|13px]] | image2=D020-TR.svg | imagesize2=40 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Edirne]] | minorl2=[[Istanbul Airport|IST]] [[File:IST-Airport.svg|13px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Adapazarı]] | minorr2=Kandıra | image3=Yüksek Hızlı Tren logo.svg | imagesize3=40 | directionl3=W | majorl3=END | minorl3= | directionr3=E | majorr3=[[Ankara]] | minorr3=[[Gebze]] | link3=Turkey#By train 2 }} {{geo|41.013611|28.955000|zoom=13}} {{isPartOf|Marmara_(region)}} {{guidecity}} 43syxjhml8en52jb68pxtwu37t64xof 0 16716 5288873 5288787 2026-06-06T14:43:51Z Borgenland 2282829 /* Other destinations */ 5288873 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} {{About|the province in the Philippines|the ancient region in India|Odisha}} '''Kalinga''' is a province in the [[Luzon Cordilleras|Cordillera]] region of [[Luzon]] in the [[Philippines]]. Long feared for its tribal conflicts and headhunters, it is nowadays renowned for its natural and cultural attractions such as indigenous villages, whitewater rafting, unspoiled mountains and even an indigenous tattoo artist. {{mapframe}} ==Towns== Kalinga is divided into one city and seven municipalities, all rural and sparsely populated, each having a central town. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Balbalan]]|wikidata=Q35848}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lubuagan]]|wikidata=Q35858}} — historic capital and home to Awichon Cultural Village. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pasil]]|wikidata=Q35866}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pinukpuk]]|wikidata=Q35873}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Rizal (Kalinga)|Rizal]]|wikidata=Q35884}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tabuk (Kalinga)|Tabuk]]|wikidata=Q35925}} — provincial capital and only city. Also a destination for whitewater rafting * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tanudan]]|wikidata=Q35897}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tinglayan]]|wikidata=Q35909}} ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=other|name=[[Buscalan]]|wikidata=Q14208858}} — A village of Tinglayan known for being the home of Whang-od, a centenarian tattoo artist who applies traditional Butbut tattoos. * {{marker|type=other|name=[[Balbalasang-Balbalan National Park]]|wikidata=Q804673}} — A wild stretch of the Cordilleras along the boundary with Abra featuring towering peaks, hot springs and isolated villages mostly untouched by modern civilization. ==Understand== ===Geography=== Kalinga occupies over {{km2|3200}} of land area, mostly mountainous terrain. The capital is [[Tabuk (Kalinga)|Tabuk]]. The province occupies some of the highest peaks of the Cordillera Mountains. The province is bounded on the south by [[Mountain Province]], on the west by [[Abra]], to the north by [[Apayao]] and to the east by [[Cagayan]] and [[Isabela (province)|Isabela]]. It is predominantly inhabited by the Kalinga, whose name means "enemy" in the language of the neighboring Ibanag people of Cagayan Valley. ===Climate=== Kalinga's climate varies extensively. While the flat, grassy eastern plateau can be hot in summer, the western highlands have a more temperate climate due to its altitude. Many visit the province during the dry season between November and April, where temperatures are at its coolest and rainfall at its lowest. The rainy season is rather the same as with the rest of Luzon, but precipitation is somewhat higher. Heavy rain, especially those brought by typhoons, can cause seasonal road closures due to landslides and rockfalls. ===History=== Archeological evidence suggests that Kalinga has long been settled as early as the prehistoric era, as seen by excavations of prehistoric fossils from animals hunted down by humans in what is now Rizal town. Throughout the 17th to 19th centuries, the Spaniards based in Cagayan Valley tried to subjugate Kalinga with limited success. In retaliation, Kalinga tribes raided lowland villages and beheaded residents in headhunting raids. During the Philippine-American War, the town of Lubuagan briefly became the capital of the First Philippine Republic in 1900. The Americans occupied Kalinga shortly afterwards and turned it into a subdistrict of the Mountain Province encompassing much of the Cordillera region in 1908. In 1966, Kalinga was merged with Apayao subdistrict to became the province of Kalinga-Apayao. In the 1970s and 1980s, the area became a hotbed of rebellions led by the communist New People's Army and a Cordilleran separatist splinter group, the Cordillera People's Liberation Army (CPLA). At the same time, the Kalingas managed to resist attempts by the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marco to build a large dam along the Chico River that would have inundated large large parts of the province. After Marcos was overthrown in 1986, the government of Corazon Aquino reached a peace agreement with the CPLA, leading to Kalinga-Apayao's transfer from the Cagayan Valley Region to the Cordillera Administrative Region in 1988. Despite being the CPLA's home base, Kalinga rejected autonomy for the Cordilleras in referendums in 1990 and 1998. Following a referendum in 1995, Kalinga-Apayao was dissolved into two separate provinces comprising its constituent halves. ===Economy=== Historically an agricultural and mining society, Kalinga's economy is gradually opening up to tourism in the 21st century, although the province's geography, poor infrastructure and bouts of tribal conflict and political instability make it challenging for large-scale tourist enterprises to take hold unlike in Baguio. ==Talk== The native language is Kalinga, which has various dialects per town. An alternative ''lingua franca'' is [[Ilocano]], brought by lowland migrants who settled in the province, followed by Tagalog and English. ==Get in== Kalinga is mainly accessed through roads from Tuguegarao in Cagayan. The nearest airport is also in Tuguegarao. Apart from Metro Manila, the main transport hubs leading to Kalinga include [[Baguio]], [[Bontoc]] in Mountain Province and Tuguegarao. There are secondary roads linking Kalinga with Isabela, [[Santiago City]] via Mountain Province and [[Ifugao]], Apayao, [[Laoag]] and [[Vigan]] via Abra and Baguio via Bontoc. Unlike other provinces, public transportation to Kalinga operates at an infrequent pace, with some transport companies offering only 1-2 daily trips to the province by transport companies and others operating a monopoly on select areas. There are direct bus services to Tabuk from Metro Manila, Baguio and Bontoc, while passenger vans to Tabuk can be taken from Tuguegarao. ==Get around== One can get around the province by public transportation such as jeepney, bus, and passenger van. Tricycles used between towns. Due to infrequent services, it is better to take a 4WD or any vehicle suitable for mountain roads. Many attractions are accessible following extended hikes. ==See== Most visitors come to Kalinga either to do whitewater rafting along the Chico River or see Balbalasang National Park, an overlooked and mostly unclimbed stretch of the Cordillera mountains. Since the 2010s, a growing trend is to go to the isolated village of Buscalan and have an tattoo from Whang-Od, a centenarian woman from of the Butbut tribe who is known as the last indigenous tattoo artist (''mambabatok'') in the Cordilleras, although she continues to train apprentices from the village. Kalinga is also known for its heritage villages of Naneng in Tabuk and Awichon in Lubuagan, offering visitors the chance to live like the natives. ==Do== Partake in cultural activities such as pounding rice, community dances and listening to the chants of the indigenous songs and epics. ==Eat== Like the rest of the Cordilleras, Kalinga cuisine is comprised of highland rice, starch vegetables and game. ==Drink== Rice wine is the native drink. Another famous, albeit expensive option is civet coffee, which are coffee beans ingested by the Asian palm civet (''musang'') and expelled afterwards, giving off a distinct aroma and flavor following fermentation in the animal's stomach. ==Sleep== The bulk of tourist accommodation is in Tabuk. Most accommodation consists of small inns, hostels or homestays. ==Stay safe== Accidents and landslides are common along the mountain roads, with the danger compounded by low or nonexistent guard rails and fog. Ensure that your vehicle is in good condition. Kalinga is a hotspot for the illegal cultivation of marijuana. Do not accept offers to buy or transport the drug, as you can be flagged down at police checkpoints in the region, especially if your license plates give you away as an outsider. Possession of marijuana is punishable by imprisonment. Although headhunting was finally outlawed in Kalinga after World War II, tribal warfare between clans is not an uncommon issue in Kalinga. This can lead to some villages being closed to visitors. Drive very carefully in Kalinga. Many residents take the loss of livestock and pets from hit and run accidents very seriously and will sometimes react violently towards involved motorists, resulting in news stories mischaracterizing such incidents as tribal warfare. ==Go next== {{outlineregion}} {{IsPartOf|Luzon Cordilleras}} {{geo|||zoom=}} cdx6yw58sv3xlab90blry1alogflsi2 5288875 5288873 2026-06-06T14:45:00Z Borgenland 2282829 /* History */ 5288875 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} {{About|the province in the Philippines|the ancient region in India|Odisha}} '''Kalinga''' is a province in the [[Luzon Cordilleras|Cordillera]] region of [[Luzon]] in the [[Philippines]]. Long feared for its tribal conflicts and headhunters, it is nowadays renowned for its natural and cultural attractions such as indigenous villages, whitewater rafting, unspoiled mountains and even an indigenous tattoo artist. {{mapframe}} ==Towns== Kalinga is divided into one city and seven municipalities, all rural and sparsely populated, each having a central town. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Balbalan]]|wikidata=Q35848}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lubuagan]]|wikidata=Q35858}} — historic capital and home to Awichon Cultural Village. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pasil]]|wikidata=Q35866}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pinukpuk]]|wikidata=Q35873}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Rizal (Kalinga)|Rizal]]|wikidata=Q35884}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tabuk (Kalinga)|Tabuk]]|wikidata=Q35925}} — provincial capital and only city. Also a destination for whitewater rafting * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tanudan]]|wikidata=Q35897}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tinglayan]]|wikidata=Q35909}} ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=other|name=[[Buscalan]]|wikidata=Q14208858}} — A village of Tinglayan known for being the home of Whang-od, a centenarian tattoo artist who applies traditional Butbut tattoos. * {{marker|type=other|name=[[Balbalasang-Balbalan National Park]]|wikidata=Q804673}} — A wild stretch of the Cordilleras along the boundary with Abra featuring towering peaks, hot springs and isolated villages mostly untouched by modern civilization. ==Understand== ===Geography=== Kalinga occupies over {{km2|3200}} of land area, mostly mountainous terrain. The capital is [[Tabuk (Kalinga)|Tabuk]]. The province occupies some of the highest peaks of the Cordillera Mountains. The province is bounded on the south by [[Mountain Province]], on the west by [[Abra]], to the north by [[Apayao]] and to the east by [[Cagayan]] and [[Isabela (province)|Isabela]]. It is predominantly inhabited by the Kalinga, whose name means "enemy" in the language of the neighboring Ibanag people of Cagayan Valley. ===Climate=== Kalinga's climate varies extensively. While the flat, grassy eastern plateau can be hot in summer, the western highlands have a more temperate climate due to its altitude. Many visit the province during the dry season between November and April, where temperatures are at its coolest and rainfall at its lowest. The rainy season is rather the same as with the rest of Luzon, but precipitation is somewhat higher. Heavy rain, especially those brought by typhoons, can cause seasonal road closures due to landslides and rockfalls. ===History=== Archeological evidence suggests that Kalinga has long been settled as early as the prehistoric era, as seen by excavations of fossils from animals hunted down by humans in what is now Rizal town. Throughout the 17th to 19th centuries, the Spaniards based in Cagayan Valley tried to subjugate Kalinga with limited success. In retaliation, Kalinga tribes raided lowland villages and beheaded residents in headhunting raids. During the Philippine-American War, the town of Lubuagan briefly became the capital of the First Philippine Republic in 1900. The Americans occupied Kalinga shortly afterwards and turned it into a subdistrict of the Mountain Province encompassing much of the Cordillera region in 1908. In 1966, Kalinga was merged with Apayao subdistrict to became the province of Kalinga-Apayao. In the 1970s and 1980s, the area became a hotbed of rebellions led by the communist New People's Army and a Cordilleran separatist splinter group, the Cordillera People's Liberation Army (CPLA). At the same time, the Kalingas managed to resist attempts by the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marco to build a large dam along the Chico River that would have inundated large large parts of the province. After Marcos was overthrown in 1986, the government of Corazon Aquino reached a peace agreement with the CPLA, leading to Kalinga-Apayao's transfer from the Cagayan Valley Region to the Cordillera Administrative Region in 1988. Despite being the CPLA's home base, Kalinga rejected autonomy for the Cordilleras in referendums in 1990 and 1998. Following a referendum in 1995, Kalinga-Apayao was dissolved into two separate provinces comprising its constituent halves. ===Economy=== Historically an agricultural and mining society, Kalinga's economy is gradually opening up to tourism in the 21st century, although the province's geography, poor infrastructure and bouts of tribal conflict and political instability make it challenging for large-scale tourist enterprises to take hold unlike in Baguio. ==Talk== The native language is Kalinga, which has various dialects per town. An alternative ''lingua franca'' is [[Ilocano]], brought by lowland migrants who settled in the province, followed by Tagalog and English. ==Get in== Kalinga is mainly accessed through roads from Tuguegarao in Cagayan. The nearest airport is also in Tuguegarao. Apart from Metro Manila, the main transport hubs leading to Kalinga include [[Baguio]], [[Bontoc]] in Mountain Province and Tuguegarao. There are secondary roads linking Kalinga with Isabela, [[Santiago City]] via Mountain Province and [[Ifugao]], Apayao, [[Laoag]] and [[Vigan]] via Abra and Baguio via Bontoc. Unlike other provinces, public transportation to Kalinga operates at an infrequent pace, with some transport companies offering only 1-2 daily trips to the province by transport companies and others operating a monopoly on select areas. There are direct bus services to Tabuk from Metro Manila, Baguio and Bontoc, while passenger vans to Tabuk can be taken from Tuguegarao. ==Get around== One can get around the province by public transportation such as jeepney, bus, and passenger van. Tricycles used between towns. Due to infrequent services, it is better to take a 4WD or any vehicle suitable for mountain roads. Many attractions are accessible following extended hikes. ==See== Most visitors come to Kalinga either to do whitewater rafting along the Chico River or see Balbalasang National Park, an overlooked and mostly unclimbed stretch of the Cordillera mountains. Since the 2010s, a growing trend is to go to the isolated village of Buscalan and have an tattoo from Whang-Od, a centenarian woman from of the Butbut tribe who is known as the last indigenous tattoo artist (''mambabatok'') in the Cordilleras, although she continues to train apprentices from the village. Kalinga is also known for its heritage villages of Naneng in Tabuk and Awichon in Lubuagan, offering visitors the chance to live like the natives. ==Do== Partake in cultural activities such as pounding rice, community dances and listening to the chants of the indigenous songs and epics. ==Eat== Like the rest of the Cordilleras, Kalinga cuisine is comprised of highland rice, starch vegetables and game. ==Drink== Rice wine is the native drink. Another famous, albeit expensive option is civet coffee, which are coffee beans ingested by the Asian palm civet (''musang'') and expelled afterwards, giving off a distinct aroma and flavor following fermentation in the animal's stomach. ==Sleep== The bulk of tourist accommodation is in Tabuk. Most accommodation consists of small inns, hostels or homestays. ==Stay safe== Accidents and landslides are common along the mountain roads, with the danger compounded by low or nonexistent guard rails and fog. Ensure that your vehicle is in good condition. Kalinga is a hotspot for the illegal cultivation of marijuana. Do not accept offers to buy or transport the drug, as you can be flagged down at police checkpoints in the region, especially if your license plates give you away as an outsider. Possession of marijuana is punishable by imprisonment. Although headhunting was finally outlawed in Kalinga after World War II, tribal warfare between clans is not an uncommon issue in Kalinga. This can lead to some villages being closed to visitors. Drive very carefully in Kalinga. Many residents take the loss of livestock and pets from hit and run accidents very seriously and will sometimes react violently towards involved motorists, resulting in news stories mischaracterizing such incidents as tribal warfare. ==Go next== {{outlineregion}} {{IsPartOf|Luzon Cordilleras}} {{geo|||zoom=}} 3akhpd41zehrp0g2dtnq8nl984w53z3 0 16719 5288863 5119227 2026-06-06T13:51:44Z ~2026-25168-20 2396992 5288863 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} [[File:Curonian Spit NP 05-2017 img17 aerial view at Epha Dune.jpg|thumb|350 px|Curonian Spit in Kaliningrad Oblast: dunes, forest, and sea]] '''Kaliningrad Oblast''' ([[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]: Калинингра́дская о́бласть) is Russia's only ''oblast'' (administrative subdivision) that is separated from the rest of [[Russia]]. It is an exclave situated between [[Poland]] and [[Lithuania]] on the [[Baltic Sea]]. Historically, the region was [[Prussia]]n (and later German) and the capital, today's [[Kaliningrad]], was known as Königsberg. The region was the northern half of historic East Prussia. After becoming part of the Soviet Union at the end of World War II, it was briefly known as Kyonigsberg (Кёнигсберг), a transliteration of its original name, prior to being renamed Kaliningrad after Bolshevik revolutionary Mikhail Kalinin in 1946. Many of its coastal towns on the Baltic Sea coast have beautiful sandy beaches. It is also the heart of the old Prussian Kingdom of Brandenburg-Prussia and has many ruins of old castles and forts dotting the landscape. ==Cities== {{mapframe|width=600|zoom=8}} {{mapshape}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kaliningrad]]|lat=54.700278|long=20.453056|wikidata=Q1829}} (Калининград) – the capital, formerly called ''Königsberg'' *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pionerskiy]]|lat=54.951667|long=20.233333|wikidata=Q179439}} (Пионерский) – a beach resort and home to one of Vladimir Putin's many second homes *{{marker|type=city|name=Primorsk|lat=54.733333|long=20.016667|wikidata=Q183223}} (Примо́рск) – formerly called ''Fischhausen'' *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Sovetsk]]|lat=55.083333|long=21.883333|wikidata=Q5647}} (Сове́тск) – formerly called ''Tilsit'' *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Svetlogorsk]]|lat=54.95|long=20.15|wikidata=Q193595}} (Светлогорск) – Soviet era seaside resort, formerly called ''Rauschen'' *{{marker|type=city|name=Zelenogradsk|lat=54.966667|long=20.483333|wikidata=Q5584}} (Зеленоградск) *{{marker|type=city|name=Zheleznodorozhniy <!-- [[Zheleznodorozhniy (Kaliningrad Oblast)|Zheleznodorozhniy]]-->|lat=54.361111|long=21.311667|wikidata=Q1897000}} (Железнодоро́жный) *{{marker|type=city|name[Chernyakhovsk|wikidata=Q5655}} (Черняхо́вск) – formerly called ''Insterburg'' *{{marker|type=city|name=Gusev|wikidata=Q5663}} (Гу́сев) – formerly called ''Gumbinnen'' *{{marker|type=city|name=Baltiysk|wikidata=Q5660}} (Балти́йск) – formerly called ''Pillau'' ==Other destinations== *{{marker|name=[[Curonian Spit]]|wikidata=Q5595}} (Ку́ршская коса́, ''Kurshskaya kosa'') – [[UNESCO World Heritage List|UNESCO World Heritage Site]] *{{marker|name=Lake Vištytis|wikidata=Q5633}} ==Understand== The Kaliningrad Oblast is the northern part of historic East Prussia (German: ''Ostpreussen''). The southern part is roughly the [[Warmia-Masuria]] region of Poland. Since 1945, it has been part of Russia. In 1525 the Duchy of Prussia was founded by the last High Master of the Teutonic Knights Albrecht of Brandenburg-Ansbach who became the first duke of Prussia. From 1618 in personal union with [[Brandenburg]], the duchy was elevated to a kingdom in 1701. Though the united Kingdom of Prussia (with the capital [[Berlin]]) was a member state of the Holy Roman Empire and later the German Confederation, Prussia proper was not a part of Germany (or any other state) but an independent country until 1871 when the [[German Empire]] was established under Prussian leadership. Prussia was thereby incorporated into Germany as its dominant and most powerful state. After [[Germany]]'s defeat in [[World War II in Europe|World War II]], East Prussia's native German-speaking population was forcibly expelled and the area was divided among three countries. The northern part with the capital [[Kaliningrad|Königsberg]] became the area of Kaliningrad Oblast, while the southern part was incorporated into [[Poland]]. A third part, the district north of the river Memel (''Memelland'') with the main city [[Klaipeda]] (''Memel''), had been split from Prussia and incorporated into [[Lithuania]] after World War I, and this was done again after World War II. In the aftermath of the war, all three areas were ethnically cleansed of their native German speaking populations. Because the German-speaking inhabitants were forced out and all their property was confiscated, the population of Kaliningrad Oblast now consists mostly of Russian-speaking people, but there are still a lot of traces of old German culture (for example, every city in the oblast has an authentic name in German) which, along with the presence of modern Russian culture, makes it an interesting destination for travelers. Kaliningrad Oblast produces 90% of the world's amber. ==Talk== The [[Russian]] language is spoken by more than 95% of Kaliningrad Oblast's population while English is understood by many people. Before the area became part of the USSR in 1945, the German, Lithuanian, and Kursenieki languages were widely used here, but now only a few inhabitants speak them. ==Get in== {{cautionbox|Travel to Kaliningrad by air, even domestically, is obstructed as Russian flights are now banned from entering into [[European Union|EU]] airspace. The sole workaround by air or sea is to enter (or overfly) the Baltic Sea from [[Saint Petersburg]], following the domestic ferry route through a narrow maritime corridor between [[Finland]] and [[Estonia]], <!-- but, presumably, outside the sovereign waters of either--> then south across open water. All land travel requires transiting through the Schengen Area. Any goods subject to European Union sanctions are banned from [[Poland|Polish]] and [[Lithuania]]n roads, even in transit from other points in Russia, and land border crossings which normally were backlogged a few hours at most are becoming near-impassible with wait times extending into days. There is one rail line which crosses Lithuanian territory which remains passible, but which is not open to transit of military or dual-use goods. (Trains of former Soviet countries cannot run in Poland due to a difference in gauge.) It's also no longer possible to disembark from this train in Lithuanian territory.|lastedit=2025-09-04}} ===Visa=== As Kaliningrad is an exclave of the Russian Federation, visitors require as a general rule a Russian visa to enter (see below). If you plan to travel overland between Kaliningrad and other parts of Russia, you will need at least a double-entry visa in order to exit and re-enter Russia. Travelling by air on domestic flights between Kaliningrad and Moscow or St. Petersburg can be done even with a single-entry visa. For more information about Russian visas, see the [[Russia#Visas|visa section on the Russia page]]. Entering Kaliningrad Oblast is possible with a free special e-visa for certain citizens. Some specific rules apply regarding the points of entry. It is not possible to travel to other parts of the Russian Federation with the special e-visa scheme. More information can be gathered here: ''[http://electronic-visa.kdmid.ru/klgd_home_en.html Kaliningrad Region E-Visa Application Process]'' ===By plane=== '''Khrabrovo Airport''' ({{IATA|KGD}}) [http://www.kgd.aero/] is a small international airport, so you may need to fly into [[Belarus]] ([[Minsk]]) to go to Kaliningrad. Belavia flies from Minsk. Aeroflot and Pobeda also has several daily flights from Moscow. ===By train=== As of 2019, it is possible to arrive to Kaliningrad Oblast only from the eastern direction. There is a regular service from the Russian mainland through Belarus and Lithuania. There are no international trains from Poland or from [[Klaipeda]] in Lithuania to Sovetsk. ===By bus=== There are regular bus connections to Kaliningrad from Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, Russia, Poland, Ukraine and Germany. ===By ferry=== There are regular ferry connections from the port of Kaliningrad in Baltijsk to St. Petersburg. '''[http://www.zegluga.pl Zegluga Gdanska]''' has duty free cruises from [[Gdynia]] and [[Gdańsk]] to Baltijsk. ===By car=== There are several border crossing points. * From [[Poland]]: [[Mamonovo]], Bagrationovsk and Gusev. * From [[Lithuania]]: Sovyetsk and [[Morskoye (on the Curonian Spit). ==Get around== ===By train=== [[File:Kaliningrad RZD 2019.png|thumb|350 px|Kaliningrad Railway passenger trains network]] The Kaliningrad Railway branch of RZD provides regular commuter service from Kaliningrad to Zelenogradsk, Svetlogorsk and Guryevsk. On other lines, traffic is very low, usually one train in the morning to Kaliningrad and one train in the afternoon from Kaliningrad, with extra services during weekends and holidays. Additionally, long-distance trains from Russia to Kaliningrad stop in major towns along the line. [[File:Rail-freq b005c2.svg|thumb|right|Commuter train frequency, 2016]] ===By bus=== There is a network of bus connections through the oblast connecting all major settlements. The schedule and network map is available in Russian on [http://avtovokzal39.ru/ this site]. ===By bike=== As a flat country, Kaliningrad Oblast has a huge potential for biking. Unfortunately, the infrastructure is very limited. Through the territory of oblast goes international EuroVelo 13 route. ===By car=== The road system is extensive in the Kaliningrad region; however, they are not always well-maintained, and sometimes it is hard to get around because of the absence of signage indicating directions/destinations (especially in the city). Driving rules are generally the same as in most European countries, but many do not follow them, especially during rush hours in the city. Beware of the traffic police because they like to stop foreigners. ==See== Almost all the sights of the Kaliningrad region belong to the German period. Perhaps the only "remarkable" monument of the Soviet era can be called the House of Soviets in Kaliningrad (an unworthy administrative building in the center of Kaliningrad in the brutalist style, which still causes controversy in society). In the post-Soviet era, quite a lot of new Orthodox churches were built in the region (although a significant part of the Orthodox parishes are located in German churches). Of artistic interest is perhaps the Church of Faith, Hope, Love and their mother Sophia in Bagrationovsk, which is a qualitative imitation of Russian church architecture of the 17th century. The Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Kaliningrad rather impresses with its size. The main layer of the German heritage is the monuments of the Teutonic era, castles and churches. They are built in the characteristic North German Brick Gothic style. Unfortunately, the state of most of them is deplorable. Balga Castle is located on the shores of the Kaliningrad Bay. Built in the 14th century by the Teutonic Order on the site of the Prussian fortress of Honede. The architectural monument is in a dilapidated state. Georgenburg Castle is located in the village of Maevka, 2 km from the city of Chernyakhovsk, Kaliningrad region. It was erected on the site of the Prussian settlement Karzovin (Garzoven) in the middle of the 14th century by the master of the Teutonic Order Winrich von Kniprode. It is owned by the Russian Orthodox Church, and is a tourist attraction. Part of the premises has been renovated, excursions are being conducted, and a museum of living history is being created. Insterburg Castle is on Zamkova street in the city of Chernyakhovsk (formerly Insterburg). It was founded in 1336 by order of the master of the Teutonic Order Dietrich von Altenburg. Its location allowed it to control the crossroads at the confluence of the Angerapp, Pissa and Inster rivers (from which the castle takes its name). It has been rebuilt many times, in the 18th-19th centuries it finally lost its military significance. The castle housed a court, a food and fodder warehouse, and during the Napoleonic wars, an infirmary, a barracks for the Uhlan squadron. After the First World War, part of the barracks was given to the police, while the main museum of the Insterburg Antiquities Society was opened in the remainder. The castle was badly damaged in 1945 during the assault by Soviet troops, and in the post-war years by a fire. Due to the efforts of local enthusiasts, the remains of ancient buildings have been partially conserved; various historical and cultural events are held in the castle. In 2010, Insterburg Castle was transferred to the ownership of the Russian Orthodox Church. Labiau Castle traces its history from the Labegove fortress, located on the Labe River (today's Deima) to protect the waterway that ran along the Deima to the Curonian Lagoon and to the Memel Fortress. The fortress has been mentioned in historical documents since 1258. For a long time the castle was an advanced defensive position in the wars with Lithuania. Twice - in 1758 and 1813 - it was engaged in Russian troops. In 1860, it lost its military significance and was rebuilt as a prison. It was used in this capacity until 1963 (it was taken by Soviet troops in January 1945). Badly damaged in 1968 by fire. The castle houses the MBU "Polessky CDC", the museum of puppets, the museum of the city of Polessk and the INS-theater "Labiau". Schaaken Castle is located on the shore of the Curonian Lagoon in the village. Nekrasovo. The word "schaaken" is of Prussian origin and means "grass". Erected by the Teutonic Order on the site of the Prussian fortress Zoke, it served as a stronghold on the coast of the bay, on the ice of which Prussian and Lithuanian tribes often raided. Until 1871 the castle belonged to the royal dynasty. Three times - in 1711, 1712 and 1717 - the castle was visited by Tsar Peter I. During the Second World War, Schaaken was almost not injured, in Soviet times it was given over to housing, in the 1990s, local residents began to dismantle it into bricks. In the early 2000s, attempts were made to save the castle, the restoration of walls and buildings began, a private museum was opened, and excursions began to be held. The castle belongs to the Russian Orthodox Church. In Kaliningrad and some other cities of the region, examples of civil buildings of the late 19th and early 20th centuries have been preserved. The condition, again, is often deplorable. An interesting layer of the heritage of the Kaliningrad region is the defensive structures of the 19th and 20th centuries. First of all, this is the system of city fortifications of Kaliningrad and the sea fortress Pillau (Baltiysk). ==Do== ==Eat== {{see also|Russian cuisine}} The cuisine practically does not have any local flavor, but a large number of beer-themed establishments and a strong presence of Lithuanian, German and Polish cuisines can be noted. Several private breweries operate in the region. On the "continental" territory of Russia, the myth of a truly Kaliningrad dish - bedbugs is widespread. According to the Kaliningraders themselves, hardly one in ten has tried this dish at least once in their life. Additionally, the food is much cheaper than [[Moscow]] and much of [[Russia]] proper. ==Drink== ==Stay safe== Many roads in the Kaliningrad region have a pre-war shape and width. Since the time of the German government, there have been close plantings of linden trees along the roads. The local name for such landings is "the last soldiers of the Reich", which is not entirely correct. Many plantings were carried out already under the USSR, this is clearly seen in the age of lindens, often not exceeding 50 years. Pump trees help keep the roadway intact from landslides. In summer, lindens provide a pleasant shade, a motorist standing in a traffic jam will surely appreciate it. However, there is a local saying: "A tree ran across his path", so you should respect the speed limit and be careful when overtaking/passing and cornering. ==Go next== * [[Poland]] * [[Lithuania]] {{outlineregion}} {{geo|54.8000|21.4167|zoom=8}} {{IsPartOf|Russia}} 7q42x729i8668uq0upseidkrnko2u5t 5288865 5288863 2026-06-06T13:52:16Z ~2026-25168-20 2396992 5288865 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} [[File:Curonian Spit NP 05-2017 img17 aerial view at Epha Dune.jpg|thumb|350 px|Curonian Spit in Kaliningrad Oblast: dunes, forest, and sea]] '''Kaliningrad Oblast''' ([[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]: Калинингра́дская о́бласть) is Russia's only ''oblast'' (administrative subdivision) that is separated from the rest of [[Russia]]. It is an exclave situated between [[Poland]] and [[Lithuania]] on the [[Baltic Sea]]. Historically, the region was [[Prussia]]n (and later German) and the capital, today's [[Kaliningrad]], was known as Königsberg. The region was the northern half of historic East Prussia. After becoming part of the Soviet Union at the end of World War II, it was briefly known as Kyonigsberg (Кёнигсберг), a transliteration of its original name, prior to being renamed Kaliningrad after Bolshevik revolutionary Mikhail Kalinin in 1946. Many of its coastal towns on the Baltic Sea coast have beautiful sandy beaches. It is also the heart of the old Prussian Kingdom of Brandenburg-Prussia and has many ruins of old castles and forts dotting the landscape. ==Cities== {{mapframe|width=600|zoom=8}} {{mapshape}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kaliningrad]]|lat=54.700278|long=20.453056|wikidata=Q1829}} (Калининград) – the capital, formerly called ''Königsberg'' *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pionerskiy]]|lat=54.951667|long=20.233333|wikidata=Q179439}} (Пионерский) – a beach resort and home to one of Vladimir Putin's many second homes *{{marker|type=city|name=Primorsk|lat=54.733333|long=20.016667|wikidata=Q183223}} (Примо́рск) – formerly called ''Fischhausen'' *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Sovetsk]]|lat=55.083333|long=21.883333|wikidata=Q5647}} (Сове́тск) – formerly called ''Tilsit'' *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Svetlogorsk]]|lat=54.95|long=20.15|wikidata=Q193595}} (Светлогорск) – Soviet era seaside resort, formerly called ''Rauschen'' *{{marker|type=city|name=Zelenogradsk|lat=54.966667|long=20.483333|wikidata=Q5584}} (Зеленоградск) *{{marker|type=city|name=Zheleznodorozhniy <!-- [[Zheleznodorozhniy (Kaliningrad Oblast)|Zheleznodorozhniy]]-->|lat=54.361111|long=21.311667|wikidata=Q1897000}} (Железнодоро́жный) *{{marker|type=city|name[Chernyakhovsk|wikidata=Q5655}} (Черняхо́вск) – formerly called ''Insterburg'' *{{marker|type=city|name=Gusev|wikidata=Q5663}} (Гу́сев) – formerly called ''Gumbinnen'' *{{marker|type=city|name=Baltiysk|wikidata=Q5660}} (Балти́йск) – formerly called ''Pillau'' ==Other destinations== *{{marker|name=[[Curonian Spit]]|wikidata=Q5595}} (Ку́ршская коса́, ''Kurshskaya kosa'') – [[UNESCO World Heritage List|UNESCO World Heritage Site]] *{{marker|name=Lake Vištytis|wikidata=Q5633}} ==Understand== The Kaliningrad Oblast is the northern part of historic East Prussia (German: ''Ostpreussen''). The southern part is roughly the [[Warmia-Masuria]] region of Poland. Since 1945, it has been part of Russia. In 1525 the Duchy of Prussia was founded by the last High Master of the Teutonic Knights Albrecht of Brandenburg-Ansbach who became the first duke of Prussia. From 1618 in personal union with [[Brandenburg]], the duchy was elevated to a kingdom in 1701. Though the united Kingdom of Prussia (with the capital [[Berlin]]) was a member state of the Holy Roman Empire and later the German Confederation, Prussia proper was not a part of Germany (or any other state) but an independent country until 1871 when the [[German Empire]] was established under Prussian leadership. Prussia was thereby incorporated into Germany as its dominant and most powerful state. After [[Germany]]'s defeat in [[World War II in Europe|World War II]], East Prussia's native German-speaking population was forcibly expelled and the area was divided among three countries. The northern part with the capital [[Kaliningrad|Königsberg]] became the area of Kaliningrad Oblast, while the southern part was incorporated into [[Poland]]. A third part, the district north of the river Memel (''Memelland'') with the main city [[Klaipeda]] (''Memel''), had been split from Prussia and incorporated into [[Lithuania]] after World War I, and this was done again after World War II. In the aftermath of the war, all three areas were ethnically cleansed of their native German speaking populations. Because the German-speaking inhabitants were forced out and all their property was confiscated, the population of Kaliningrad Oblast now consists mostly of Russian-speaking people, but there are still a lot of traces of old German culture (for example, every city in the oblast has an authentic name in German) which, along with the presence of modern Russian culture, makes it an interesting destination for travelers. Kaliningrad Oblast produces 90% of the world's amber. ==Talk== The [[Russian]] language is spoken by more than 95% of Kaliningrad Oblast's population while English is understood by many people. Before the area became part of the USSR in 1945, the German, Lithuanian, and Kursenieki languages were widely used here, but now only a few inhabitants speak them. ==Get in== {{cautionbox|Travel to Kaliningrad by air, even domestically, is obstructed as Russian flights are now banned from entering into [[European Union|EU]] airspace. The sole workaround by air or sea is to enter (or overfly) the Baltic Sea from [[Saint Petersburg]], following the domestic ferry route through a narrow maritime corridor between [[Finland]] and [[Estonia]], <!-- but, presumably, outside the sovereign waters of either--> then south across open water. All land travel requires transiting through the Schengen Area. Any goods subject to European Union sanctions are banned from [[Poland|Polish]] and [[Lithuania]]n roads, even in transit from other points in Russia, and land border crossings which normally were backlogged a few hours at most are becoming near-impassible with wait times extending into days. There is one rail line which crosses Lithuanian territory which remains passible, but which is not open to transit of military or dual-use goods. (Trains of former Soviet countries cannot run in Poland due to a difference in gauge.) It's also no longer possible to disembark from this train in Lithuanian territory.|lastedit=2025-09-04}} ===Visa=== As Kaliningrad is an exclave of the Russian Federation, visitors require as a general rule a Russian visa to enter (see below). If you plan to travel overland between Kaliningrad and other parts of Russia, you will need at least a double-entry visa in order to exit and re-enter Russia. Travelling by air on domestic flights between Kaliningrad and Moscow or Saint Petersburg can be done even with a single-entry visa. For more information about Russian visas, see the [[Russia#Visas|visa section on the Russia page]]. Entering Kaliningrad Oblast is possible with a free special e-visa for certain citizens. Some specific rules apply regarding the points of entry. It is not possible to travel to other parts of the Russian Federation with the special e-visa scheme. More information can be gathered here: ''[http://electronic-visa.kdmid.ru/klgd_home_en.html Kaliningrad Region E-Visa Application Process]'' ===By plane=== '''Khrabrovo Airport''' ({{IATA|KGD}}) [http://www.kgd.aero/] is a small international airport, so you may need to fly into [[Belarus]] ([[Minsk]]) to go to Kaliningrad. Belavia flies from Minsk. Aeroflot and Pobeda also has several daily flights from Moscow. ===By train=== As of 2019, it is possible to arrive to Kaliningrad Oblast only from the eastern direction. There is a regular service from the Russian mainland through Belarus and Lithuania. There are no international trains from Poland or from [[Klaipeda]] in Lithuania to Sovetsk. ===By bus=== There are regular bus connections to Kaliningrad from Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, Russia, Poland, Ukraine and Germany. ===By ferry=== There are regular ferry connections from the port of Kaliningrad in Baltijsk to St. Petersburg. '''[http://www.zegluga.pl Zegluga Gdanska]''' has duty free cruises from [[Gdynia]] and [[Gdańsk]] to Baltijsk. ===By car=== There are several border crossing points. * From [[Poland]]: [[Mamonovo]], Bagrationovsk and Gusev. * From [[Lithuania]]: Sovyetsk and [[Morskoye (on the Curonian Spit). ==Get around== ===By train=== [[File:Kaliningrad RZD 2019.png|thumb|350 px|Kaliningrad Railway passenger trains network]] The Kaliningrad Railway branch of RZD provides regular commuter service from Kaliningrad to Zelenogradsk, Svetlogorsk and Guryevsk. On other lines, traffic is very low, usually one train in the morning to Kaliningrad and one train in the afternoon from Kaliningrad, with extra services during weekends and holidays. Additionally, long-distance trains from Russia to Kaliningrad stop in major towns along the line. [[File:Rail-freq b005c2.svg|thumb|right|Commuter train frequency, 2016]] ===By bus=== There is a network of bus connections through the oblast connecting all major settlements. The schedule and network map is available in Russian on [http://avtovokzal39.ru/ this site]. ===By bike=== As a flat country, Kaliningrad Oblast has a huge potential for biking. Unfortunately, the infrastructure is very limited. Through the territory of oblast goes international EuroVelo 13 route. ===By car=== The road system is extensive in the Kaliningrad region; however, they are not always well-maintained, and sometimes it is hard to get around because of the absence of signage indicating directions/destinations (especially in the city). Driving rules are generally the same as in most European countries, but many do not follow them, especially during rush hours in the city. Beware of the traffic police because they like to stop foreigners. ==See== Almost all the sights of the Kaliningrad region belong to the German period. Perhaps the only "remarkable" monument of the Soviet era can be called the House of Soviets in Kaliningrad (an unworthy administrative building in the center of Kaliningrad in the brutalist style, which still causes controversy in society). In the post-Soviet era, quite a lot of new Orthodox churches were built in the region (although a significant part of the Orthodox parishes are located in German churches). Of artistic interest is perhaps the Church of Faith, Hope, Love and their mother Sophia in Bagrationovsk, which is a qualitative imitation of Russian church architecture of the 17th century. The Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Kaliningrad rather impresses with its size. The main layer of the German heritage is the monuments of the Teutonic era, castles and churches. They are built in the characteristic North German Brick Gothic style. Unfortunately, the state of most of them is deplorable. Balga Castle is located on the shores of the Kaliningrad Bay. Built in the 14th century by the Teutonic Order on the site of the Prussian fortress of Honede. The architectural monument is in a dilapidated state. Georgenburg Castle is located in the village of Maevka, 2 km from the city of Chernyakhovsk, Kaliningrad region. It was erected on the site of the Prussian settlement Karzovin (Garzoven) in the middle of the 14th century by the master of the Teutonic Order Winrich von Kniprode. It is owned by the Russian Orthodox Church, and is a tourist attraction. Part of the premises has been renovated, excursions are being conducted, and a museum of living history is being created. Insterburg Castle is on Zamkova street in the city of Chernyakhovsk (formerly Insterburg). It was founded in 1336 by order of the master of the Teutonic Order Dietrich von Altenburg. Its location allowed it to control the crossroads at the confluence of the Angerapp, Pissa and Inster rivers (from which the castle takes its name). It has been rebuilt many times, in the 18th-19th centuries it finally lost its military significance. The castle housed a court, a food and fodder warehouse, and during the Napoleonic wars, an infirmary, a barracks for the Uhlan squadron. After the First World War, part of the barracks was given to the police, while the main museum of the Insterburg Antiquities Society was opened in the remainder. The castle was badly damaged in 1945 during the assault by Soviet troops, and in the post-war years by a fire. Due to the efforts of local enthusiasts, the remains of ancient buildings have been partially conserved; various historical and cultural events are held in the castle. In 2010, Insterburg Castle was transferred to the ownership of the Russian Orthodox Church. Labiau Castle traces its history from the Labegove fortress, located on the Labe River (today's Deima) to protect the waterway that ran along the Deima to the Curonian Lagoon and to the Memel Fortress. The fortress has been mentioned in historical documents since 1258. For a long time the castle was an advanced defensive position in the wars with Lithuania. Twice - in 1758 and 1813 - it was engaged in Russian troops. In 1860, it lost its military significance and was rebuilt as a prison. It was used in this capacity until 1963 (it was taken by Soviet troops in January 1945). Badly damaged in 1968 by fire. The castle houses the MBU "Polessky CDC", the museum of puppets, the museum of the city of Polessk and the INS-theater "Labiau". Schaaken Castle is located on the shore of the Curonian Lagoon in the village. Nekrasovo. The word "schaaken" is of Prussian origin and means "grass". Erected by the Teutonic Order on the site of the Prussian fortress Zoke, it served as a stronghold on the coast of the bay, on the ice of which Prussian and Lithuanian tribes often raided. Until 1871 the castle belonged to the royal dynasty. Three times - in 1711, 1712 and 1717 - the castle was visited by Tsar Peter I. During the Second World War, Schaaken was almost not injured, in Soviet times it was given over to housing, in the 1990s, local residents began to dismantle it into bricks. In the early 2000s, attempts were made to save the castle, the restoration of walls and buildings began, a private museum was opened, and excursions began to be held. The castle belongs to the Russian Orthodox Church. In Kaliningrad and some other cities of the region, examples of civil buildings of the late 19th and early 20th centuries have been preserved. The condition, again, is often deplorable. An interesting layer of the heritage of the Kaliningrad region is the defensive structures of the 19th and 20th centuries. First of all, this is the system of city fortifications of Kaliningrad and the sea fortress Pillau (Baltiysk). ==Do== ==Eat== {{see also|Russian cuisine}} The cuisine practically does not have any local flavor, but a large number of beer-themed establishments and a strong presence of Lithuanian, German and Polish cuisines can be noted. Several private breweries operate in the region. On the "continental" territory of Russia, the myth of a truly Kaliningrad dish - bedbugs is widespread. According to the Kaliningraders themselves, hardly one in ten has tried this dish at least once in their life. Additionally, the food is much cheaper than [[Moscow]] and much of [[Russia]] proper. ==Drink== ==Stay safe== Many roads in the Kaliningrad region have a pre-war shape and width. Since the time of the German government, there have been close plantings of linden trees along the roads. The local name for such landings is "the last soldiers of the Reich", which is not entirely correct. Many plantings were carried out already under the USSR, this is clearly seen in the age of lindens, often not exceeding 50 years. Pump trees help keep the roadway intact from landslides. In summer, lindens provide a pleasant shade, a motorist standing in a traffic jam will surely appreciate it. However, there is a local saying: "A tree ran across his path", so you should respect the speed limit and be careful when overtaking/passing and cornering. ==Go next== * [[Poland]] * [[Lithuania]] {{outlineregion}} {{geo|54.8000|21.4167|zoom=8}} {{IsPartOf|Russia}} h1va5g6bv7rdqgit259njh53r8eeulj 5288867 5288865 2026-06-06T13:53:05Z ~2026-25168-20 2396992 5288867 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} [[File:Curonian Spit NP 05-2017 img17 aerial view at Epha Dune.jpg|thumb|350 px|Curonian Spit in Kaliningrad Oblast: dunes, forest, and sea]] '''Kaliningrad Oblast''' ([[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]: Калинингра́дская о́бласть) is Russia's only ''oblast'' (administrative subdivision) that is separated from the rest of [[Russia]]. It is an exclave situated between [[Poland]] and [[Lithuania]] on the [[Baltic Sea]]. Historically, the region was [[Prussia]]n (and later German) and the capital, today's [[Kaliningrad]], was known as Königsberg. The region was the northern half of historic East Prussia. After becoming part of the Soviet Union at the end of World War II, it was briefly known as Kyonigsberg (Кёнигсберг), a transliteration of its original name, prior to being renamed Kaliningrad after Bolshevik revolutionary Mikhail Kalinin in 1946. Many of its coastal towns on the Baltic Sea coast have beautiful sandy beaches. It is also the heart of the old Prussian Kingdom of Brandenburg-Prussia and has many ruins of old castles and forts dotting the landscape. ==Cities== {{mapframe|width=600|zoom=8}} {{mapshape}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kaliningrad]]|lat=54.700278|long=20.453056|wikidata=Q1829}} (Калининград) – the capital, formerly called ''Königsberg'' *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pionerskiy]]|lat=54.951667|long=20.233333|wikidata=Q179439}} (Пионерский) – a beach resort and home to one of Vladimir Putin's many second homes *{{marker|type=city|name=Primorsk|lat=54.733333|long=20.016667|wikidata=Q183223}} (Примо́рск) – formerly called ''Fischhausen'' *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Sovetsk]]|lat=55.083333|long=21.883333|wikidata=Q5647}} (Сове́тск) – formerly called ''Tilsit'' *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Svetlogorsk]]|lat=54.95|long=20.15|wikidata=Q193595}} (Светлогорск) – Soviet era seaside resort, formerly called ''Rauschen'' *{{marker|type=city|name=Zelenogradsk|lat=54.966667|long=20.483333|wikidata=Q5584}} (Зеленоградск) *{{marker|type=city|name=Zheleznodorozhniy <!-- [[Zheleznodorozhniy (Kaliningrad Oblast)|Zheleznodorozhniy]]-->|lat=54.361111|long=21.311667|wikidata=Q1897000}} (Железнодоро́жный) *{{marker|type=city|name[Chernyakhovsk|wikidata=Q5655}} (Черняхо́вск) – formerly called ''Insterburg'' *{{marker|type=city|name=Gusev|wikidata=Q5663}} (Гу́сев) – formerly called ''Gumbinnen'' *{{marker|type=city|name=Baltiysk|wikidata=Q5660}} (Балти́йск) – formerly called ''Pillau'' ==Other destinations== *{{marker|name=[[Curonian Spit]]|wikidata=Q5595}} (Ку́ршская коса́, ''Kurshskaya kosa'') – [[UNESCO World Heritage List|UNESCO World Heritage Site]] *{{marker|name=Lake Vištytis|wikidata=Q5633}} ==Understand== The Kaliningrad Oblast is the northern part of historic East Prussia (German: ''Ostpreussen''). The southern part is roughly the [[Warmia-Masuria]] region of Poland. Since 1945, it has been part of Russia. In 1525 the Duchy of Prussia was founded by the last High Master of the Teutonic Knights Albrecht of Brandenburg-Ansbach who became the first duke of Prussia. From 1618 in personal union with [[Brandenburg]], the duchy was elevated to a kingdom in 1701. Though the united Kingdom of Prussia (with the capital [[Berlin]]) was a member state of the Holy Roman Empire and later the German Confederation, Prussia proper was not a part of Germany (or any other state) but an independent country until 1871 when the [[German Empire]] was established under Prussian leadership. Prussia was thereby incorporated into Germany as its dominant and most powerful state. After [[Germany]]'s defeat in [[World War II in Europe|World War II]], East Prussia's native German-speaking population was forcibly expelled and the area was divided among three countries. The northern part with the capital [[Kaliningrad|Königsberg]] became the area of Kaliningrad Oblast, while the southern part was incorporated into [[Poland]]. A third part, the district north of the river Memel (''Memelland'') with the main city [[Klaipeda]] (''Memel''), had been split from Prussia and incorporated into [[Lithuania]] after World War I, and this was done again after World War II. In the aftermath of the war, all three areas were ethnically cleansed of their native German speaking populations. Because the German-speaking inhabitants were forced out and all their property was confiscated, the population of Kaliningrad Oblast now consists mostly of Russian-speaking people, but there are still a lot of traces of old German culture (for example, every city in the oblast has an authentic name in German) which, along with the presence of modern Russian culture, makes it an interesting destination for travelers. Kaliningrad Oblast produces 90% of the world's amber. ==Talk== The [[Russian]] language is spoken by more than 95% of Kaliningrad Oblast's population while English is understood by many people. Before the area became part of the USSR in 1945, the German, Lithuanian, and Kursenieki languages were widely used here, but now only a few inhabitants speak them. ==Get in== {{cautionbox|Travel to Kaliningrad by air, even domestically, is obstructed as Russian flights are now banned from entering into [[European Union|EU]] airspace. The sole workaround by air or sea is to enter (or overfly) the Baltic Sea from [[Saint Petersburg]], following the domestic ferry route through a narrow maritime corridor between [[Finland]] and [[Estonia]], <!-- but, presumably, outside the sovereign waters of either--> then south across open water. All land travel requires transiting through the Schengen Area. Any goods subject to European Union sanctions are banned from [[Poland|Polish]] and [[Lithuania]]n roads, even in transit from other points in Russia, and land border crossings which normally were backlogged a few hours at most are becoming near-impassible with wait times extending into days. There is one rail line which crosses Lithuanian territory which remains passible, but which is not open to transit of military or dual-use goods. (Trains of former Soviet countries cannot run in Poland due to a difference in gauge.) It's also no longer possible to disembark from this train in Lithuanian territory.|lastedit=2025-09-04}} ===Visa=== As Kaliningrad is an exclave of the Russian Federation, visitors require as a general rule a Russian visa to enter (see below). If you plan to travel overland between Kaliningrad and other parts of Russia, you will need at least a double-entry visa in order to exit and re-enter Russia. Travelling by air on domestic flights between Kaliningrad and Moscow or Saint Petersburg can be done even with a single-entry visa. For more information about Russian visas, see the [[Russia#Visas|visa section on the Russia page]]. Entering Kaliningrad Oblast is possible with a free special e-visa for certain citizens. Some specific rules apply regarding the points of entry. It is not possible to travel to other parts of the Russian Federation with the special e-visa scheme. More information can be gathered here: ''[http://electronic-visa.kdmid.ru/klgd_home_en.html Kaliningrad Region E-Visa Application Process]'' ===By plane=== '''Khrabrovo Airport''' ({{IATA|KGD}}) [http://www.kgd.aero/] is a small international airport, so you may need to fly into [[Belarus]] ([[Minsk]]) to go to Kaliningrad. Belavia flies from Minsk. Aeroflot and Pobeda also has several daily flights from Moscow. ===By train=== As of 2019, it is possible to arrive to Kaliningrad Oblast only from the eastern direction. There is a regular service from the Russian mainland through Belarus and Lithuania. There are no international trains from Poland or from [[Klaipeda]] in Lithuania to Sovetsk. ===By bus=== There are regular bus connections to Kaliningrad from Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, Russia, Poland, Ukraine and Germany. ===By ferry=== There are regular ferry connections from the port of Kaliningrad in Baltijsk to St. Petersburg. '''[http://www.zegluga.pl Zegluga Gdanska]''' has duty free cruises from [[Gdynia]] and [[Gdańsk]] to Baltijsk. ===By car=== There are several border crossing points. * From [[Poland]]: [[Mamonovo]], Bagrationovsk and Gusev. * From [[Lithuania]]: Sovyetsk and [[Morskoye (on the Curonian Spit). ==Get around== ===By train=== [[File:Kaliningrad RZD 2019.png|thumb|350 px|Kaliningrad Railway passenger trains network]] The Kaliningrad Railway branch of RZD provides regular commuter service from Kaliningrad to Zelenogradsk, Svetlogorsk and Guryevsk. On other lines, traffic is very low, usually one train in the morning to Kaliningrad and one train in the afternoon from Kaliningrad, with extra services during weekends and holidays. Additionally, long-distance trains from Russia to Kaliningrad stop in major towns along the line. [[File:Rail-freq b005c2.svg|thumb|right|Commuter train frequency, 2016]] ===By bus=== There is a network of bus connections through the oblast connecting all major settlements. The schedule and network map is available in Russian on [http://avtovokzal39.ru/ this site]. ===By bike=== As a flat country, Kaliningrad Oblast has a huge potential for biking. Unfortunately, the infrastructure is very limited. Through the territory of oblast goes international EuroVelo 13 route. ===By car=== The road system is extensive in the Kaliningrad region; however, they are not always well-maintained, and sometimes it is hard to get around because of the absence of signage indicating directions/destinations (especially in the city). Driving rules are generally the same as in most European countries, but many do not follow them, especially during rush hours in the city. Beware of the traffic police because they like to stop foreigners. ==See== Almost all the sights of the Kaliningrad region belong to the German period. Perhaps the only "remarkable" monument of the Soviet era can be called the House of Soviets in Kaliningrad (an unworthy administrative building in the center of Kaliningrad in the brutalist style, which still causes controversy in society). In the post-Soviet era, quite a lot of new Orthodox churches were built in the region (although a significant part of the Orthodox parishes are located in German churches). Of artistic interest is perhaps the Church of Faith, Hope, Love and their mother Sophia in Bagrationovsk, which is a qualitative imitation of Russian church architecture of the 17th century. The Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Kaliningrad rather impresses with its size. The main layer of the German heritage is the monuments of the Teutonic era, castles and churches. They are built in the characteristic North German Brick Gothic style. Unfortunately, the state of most of them is deplorable. Balga Castle is located on the shores of the Kaliningrad Bay. Built in the 14th century by the Teutonic Order on the site of the Prussian fortress of Honede. The architectural monument is in a dilapidated state. Georgenburg Castle is located in the village of Maevka, 2 km from the city of Chernyakhovsk, Kaliningrad region. It was erected on the site of the Prussian settlement Karzovin (Garzoven) in the middle of the 14th century by the master of the Teutonic Order Winrich von Kniprode. It is owned by the Russian Orthodox Church, and is a tourist attraction. Part of the premises has been renovated, excursions are being conducted, and a museum of living history is being created. Insterburg Castle is on Zamkova street in the city of Chernyakhovsk (formerly Insterburg). It was founded in 1336 by order of the master of the Teutonic Order Dietrich von Altenburg. Its location allowed it to control the crossroads at the confluence of the Angerapp, Pissa and Inster rivers (from which the castle takes its name). It has been rebuilt many times, in the 18th-19th centuries it finally lost its military significance. The castle housed a court, a food and fodder warehouse, and during the Napoleonic wars, an infirmary, a barracks for the Uhlan squadron. After the First World War, part of the barracks was given to the police, while the main museum of the Insterburg Antiquities Society was opened in the remainder. The castle was badly damaged in 1945 during the assault by Soviet troops, and in the post-war years by a fire. Due to the efforts of local enthusiasts, the remains of ancient buildings have been partially conserved; various historical and cultural events are held in the castle. In 2010, Insterburg Castle was transferred to the ownership of the Russian Orthodox Church. Labiau Castle traces its history from the Labegove fortress, located on the Labe River (today's Deima) to protect the waterway that ran along the Deima to the Curonian Lagoon and to the Memel Fortress. The fortress has been mentioned in historical documents since 1258. For a long time the castle was an advanced defensive position in the wars with Lithuania. Twice - in 1758 and 1813 - it was engaged in Russian troops. In 1860, it lost its military significance and was rebuilt as a prison. It was used in this capacity until 1963 (it was taken by Soviet troops in January 1945). Badly damaged in 1968 by fire. The castle houses the MBU "Polessky CDC", the museum of puppets, the museum of the city of Polessk and the INS-theater "Labiau". Schaaken Castle is located on the shore of the Curonian Lagoon in the village. Nekrasovo. The word "schaaken" is of Prussian origin and means "grass". Erected by the Teutonic Order on the site of the Prussian fortress Zoke, it served as a stronghold on the coast of the bay, on the ice of which Prussian and Lithuanian tribes often raided. Until 1871 the castle belonged to the royal dynasty. Three times - in 1711, 1712 and 1717 - the castle was visited by Tsar Peter I. During the Second World War, Schaaken was almost not injured, in Soviet times it was given over to housing, in the 1990s, local residents began to dismantle it into bricks. In the early 2000s, attempts were made to save the castle, the restoration of walls and buildings began, a private museum was opened, and excursions began to be held. The castle belongs to the Russian Orthodox Church. In Kaliningrad and some other cities of the region, examples of civil buildings of the late 19th and early 20th centuries have been preserved. The condition, again, is often deplorable. An interesting layer of the heritage of the Kaliningrad region is the defensive structures of the 19th and 20th centuries. First of all, this is the system of city fortifications of Kaliningrad and the sea fortress Pillau (Baltiysk). ==Do== ==Eat== {{see also|Russian cuisine}} The cuisine practically does not have any local flavor, but a large number of beer-themed establishments and a strong presence of Lithuanian, German and Polish cuisines can be noted. Several private breweries operate in the region. On the "continental" territory of Russia, the myth of a truly Kaliningrad dish, bedbugs, is widespread. According to the Kaliningraders themselves, hardly one in ten has tried this dish at least once in their life. Additionally, the food is much cheaper than [[Moscow]] and much of [[Russia]] proper. ==Drink== ==Stay safe== Many roads in the Kaliningrad region have a pre-war shape and width. Since the time of the German government, there have been close plantings of linden trees along the roads. The local name for such landings is "the last soldiers of the Reich", which is not entirely correct. Many plantings were carried out already under the USSR, this is clearly seen in the age of lindens, often not exceeding 50 years. Pump trees help keep the roadway intact from landslides. In summer, lindens provide a pleasant shade, a motorist standing in a traffic jam will surely appreciate it. However, there is a local saying: "A tree ran across his path", so you should respect the speed limit and be careful when overtaking/passing and cornering. ==Go next== * [[Poland]] * [[Lithuania]] {{outlineregion}} {{geo|54.8000|21.4167|zoom=8}} {{IsPartOf|Russia}} dvhl9cxisp6xa70jmkx84cvie7ekaru 5288868 5288867 2026-06-06T13:53:30Z ~2026-25168-20 2396992 5288868 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} [[File:Curonian Spit NP 05-2017 img17 aerial view at Epha Dune.jpg|thumb|350 px|Curonian Spit in Kaliningrad Oblast: dunes, forest, and sea]] '''Kaliningrad Oblast''' ([[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]: Калинингра́дская о́бласть) is Russia's only ''oblast'' (administrative subdivision) that is separated from the rest of [[Russia]]. It is an exclave situated between [[Poland]] and [[Lithuania]] on the [[Baltic Sea]]. Historically, the region was [[Prussia]]n (and later German) and the capital, today's [[Kaliningrad]], was known as Königsberg. The region was the northern half of historic East Prussia. After becoming part of the Soviet Union at the end of World War II, it was briefly known as Kyonigsberg (Кёнигсберг), a transliteration of its original name, prior to being renamed Kaliningrad after Bolshevik revolutionary Mikhail Kalinin in 1946. Many of its coastal towns on the Baltic Sea coast have beautiful sandy beaches. It is also the heart of the old Prussian Kingdom of Brandenburg-Prussia and has many ruins of old castles and forts dotting the landscape. ==Cities== {{mapframe|width=600|zoom=8}} {{mapshape}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kaliningrad]]|lat=54.700278|long=20.453056|wikidata=Q1829}} (Калининград) – the capital, formerly called ''Königsberg'' *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pionerskiy]]|lat=54.951667|long=20.233333|wikidata=Q179439}} (Пионерский) – a beach resort and home to one of Vladimir Putin's many second homes *{{marker|type=city|name=Primorsk|lat=54.733333|long=20.016667|wikidata=Q183223}} (Примо́рск) – formerly called ''Fischhausen'' *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Sovetsk]]|lat=55.083333|long=21.883333|wikidata=Q5647}} (Сове́тск) – formerly called ''Tilsit'' *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Svetlogorsk]]|lat=54.95|long=20.15|wikidata=Q193595}} (Светлогорск) – Soviet era seaside resort, formerly called ''Rauschen'' *{{marker|type=city|name=Zelenogradsk|lat=54.966667|long=20.483333|wikidata=Q5584}} (Зеленоградск) *{{marker|type=city|name=Zheleznodorozhniy <!-- [[Zheleznodorozhniy (Kaliningrad Oblast)|Zheleznodorozhniy]]-->|lat=54.361111|long=21.311667|wikidata=Q1897000}} (Железнодоро́жный) *{{marker|type=city|name[Chernyakhovsk|wikidata=Q5655}} (Черняхо́вск) – formerly called ''Insterburg'' *{{marker|type=city|name=Gusev|wikidata=Q5663}} (Гу́сев) – formerly called ''Gumbinnen'' *{{marker|type=city|name=Baltiysk|wikidata=Q5660}} (Балти́йск) – formerly called ''Pillau'' ==Other destinations== *{{marker|name=[[Curonian Spit]]|wikidata=Q5595}} (Ку́ршская коса́, ''Kurshskaya kosa'') – [[UNESCO World Heritage List|UNESCO World Heritage Site]] *{{marker|name=Lake Vištytis|wikidata=Q5633}} ==Understand== The Kaliningrad Oblast is the northern part of historic East Prussia (German: ''Ostpreussen''). The southern part is roughly the [[Warmia-Masuria]] region of Poland. Since 1945, it has been part of Russia. In 1525 the Duchy of Prussia was founded by the last High Master of the Teutonic Knights Albrecht of Brandenburg-Ansbach who became the first duke of Prussia. From 1618 in personal union with [[Brandenburg]], the duchy was elevated to a kingdom in 1701. Though the united Kingdom of Prussia (with the capital [[Berlin]]) was a member state of the Holy Roman Empire and later the German Confederation, Prussia proper was not a part of Germany (or any other state) but an independent country until 1871 when the [[German Empire]] was established under Prussian leadership. Prussia was thereby incorporated into Germany as its dominant and most powerful state. After [[Germany]]'s defeat in [[World War II in Europe|World War II]], East Prussia's native German-speaking population was forcibly expelled and the area was divided among three countries. The northern part with the capital [[Kaliningrad|Königsberg]] became the area of Kaliningrad Oblast, while the southern part was incorporated into [[Poland]]. A third part, the district north of the river Memel (''Memelland'') with the main city [[Klaipeda]] (''Memel''), had been split from Prussia and incorporated into [[Lithuania]] after World War I, and this was done again after World War II. In the aftermath of the war, all three areas were ethnically cleansed of their native German speaking populations. Because the German-speaking inhabitants were forced out and all their property was confiscated, the population of Kaliningrad Oblast now consists mostly of Russian-speaking people, but there are still a lot of traces of old German culture (for example, every city in the oblast has an authentic name in German) which, along with the presence of modern Russian culture, makes it an interesting destination for travelers. Kaliningrad Oblast produces 90% of the world's amber. ==Talk== The [[Russian]] language is spoken by more than 95% of Kaliningrad Oblast's population while English is understood by many people. Before the area became part of the USSR in 1945, the German, Lithuanian, and Kursenieki languages were widely used here, but now only a few inhabitants speak them. ==Get in== {{cautionbox|Travel to Kaliningrad by air, even domestically, is obstructed as Russian flights are now banned from entering into [[European Union|EU]] airspace. The sole workaround by air or sea is to enter (or overfly) the Baltic Sea from [[Saint Petersburg]], following the domestic ferry route through a narrow maritime corridor between [[Finland]] and [[Estonia]], <!-- but, presumably, outside the sovereign waters of either--> then south across open water. All land travel requires transiting through the Schengen Area. Any goods subject to European Union sanctions are banned from [[Poland|Polish]] and [[Lithuania]]n roads, even in transit from other points in Russia, and land border crossings which normally were backlogged a few hours at most are becoming near-impassible with wait times extending into days. There is one rail line which crosses Lithuanian territory which remains passible, but which is not open to transit of military or dual-use goods. (Trains of former Soviet countries cannot run in Poland due to a difference in gauge.) It's also no longer possible to disembark from this train in Lithuanian territory.|lastedit=2025-09-04}} ===Visa=== As Kaliningrad is an exclave of the Russian Federation, visitors require as a general rule a Russian visa to enter (see below). If you plan to travel overland between Kaliningrad and other parts of Russia, you will need at least a double-entry visa in order to exit and re-enter Russia. Travelling by air on domestic flights between Kaliningrad and Moscow or Saint Petersburg can be done even with a single-entry visa. For more information about Russian visas, see the [[Russia#Visas|visa section on the Russia page]]. Entering Kaliningrad Oblast is possible with a free special e-visa for certain citizens. Some specific rules apply regarding the points of entry. It is not possible to travel to other parts of the Russian Federation with the special e-visa scheme. More information can be gathered here: ''[http://electronic-visa.kdmid.ru/klgd_home_en.html Kaliningrad Region E-Visa Application Process]'' ===By plane=== '''Khrabrovo Airport''' ({{IATA|KGD}}) [http://www.kgd.aero/] is a small international airport, so you may need to fly into [[Belarus]] ([[Minsk]]) to go to Kaliningrad. Belavia flies from Minsk. Aeroflot and Pobeda also has several daily flights from Moscow. ===By train=== As of 2019, it is possible to arrive to Kaliningrad Oblast only from the eastern direction. There is a regular service from the Russian mainland through Belarus and Lithuania. There are no international trains from Poland or from [[Klaipeda]] in Lithuania to Sovetsk. ===By bus=== There are regular bus connections to Kaliningrad from Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, Russia, Poland, Ukraine and Germany. ===By ferry=== There are regular ferry connections from the port of Kaliningrad in Baltijsk to St. Petersburg. '''[http://www.zegluga.pl Zegluga Gdanska]''' has duty free cruises from [[Gdynia]] and [[Gdańsk]] to Baltijsk. ===By car=== There are several border crossing points. * From [[Poland]]: [[Mamonovo]], Bagrationovsk and Gusev. * From [[Lithuania]]: Sovyetsk and [[Morskoye (on the Curonian Spit). ==Get around== ===By train=== [[File:Kaliningrad RZD 2019.png|thumb|350 px|Kaliningrad Railway passenger trains network]] The Kaliningrad Railway branch of RZD provides regular commuter service from Kaliningrad to Zelenogradsk, Svetlogorsk and Guryevsk. On other lines, traffic is very low, usually one train in the morning to Kaliningrad and one train in the afternoon from Kaliningrad, with extra services during weekends and holidays. Additionally, long-distance trains from Russia to Kaliningrad stop in major towns along the line. [[File:Rail-freq b005c2.svg|thumb|right|Commuter train frequency, 2016]] ===By bus=== There is a network of bus connections through the oblast connecting all major settlements. The schedule and network map is available in Russian on [http://avtovokzal39.ru/ this site]. ===By bike=== As a flat country, Kaliningrad Oblast has a huge potential for biking. Unfortunately, the infrastructure is very limited. Through the territory of oblast goes international EuroVelo 13 route. ===By car=== The road system is extensive in the Kaliningrad region; however, they are not always well-maintained, and sometimes it is hard to get around because of the absence of signage indicating directions/destinations (especially in the city). Driving rules are generally the same as in most European countries, but many do not follow them, especially during rush hours in the city. Beware of the traffic police because they like to stop foreigners. ==See== Almost all the sights of the Kaliningrad region belong to the German period. Perhaps the only "remarkable" monument of the Soviet era can be called the House of Soviets in Kaliningrad (an unworthy administrative building in the center of Kaliningrad in the brutalist style, which still causes controversy in society). In the post-Soviet era, quite a lot of new Orthodox churches were built in the region (although a significant part of the Orthodox parishes are located in German churches). Of artistic interest is perhaps the Church of Faith, Hope, Love and their mother Sophia in Bagrationovsk, which is a qualitative imitation of Russian church architecture of the 17th century. The Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Kaliningrad rather impresses with its size. The main layer of the German heritage is the monuments of the Teutonic era, castles and churches. They are built in the characteristic North German Brick Gothic style. Unfortunately, the state of most of them is deplorable. Balga Castle is located on the shores of the Kaliningrad Bay. Built in the 14th century by the Teutonic Order on the site of the Prussian fortress of Honede. The architectural monument is in a dilapidated state. Georgenburg Castle is located in the village of Maevka, 2 km from the city of Chernyakhovsk, Kaliningrad region. It was erected on the site of the Prussian settlement Karzovin (Garzoven) in the middle of the 14th century by the master of the Teutonic Order Winrich von Kniprode. It is owned by the Russian Orthodox Church, and is a tourist attraction. Part of the premises has been renovated, excursions are being conducted, and a museum of living history is being created. Insterburg Castle is on Zamkova street in the city of Chernyakhovsk (formerly Insterburg). It was founded in 1336 by order of the master of the Teutonic Order Dietrich von Altenburg. Its location allowed it to control the crossroads at the confluence of the Angerapp, Pissa and Inster rivers (from which the castle takes its name). It has been rebuilt many times, in the 18th-19th centuries it finally lost its military significance. The castle housed a court, a food and fodder warehouse, and during the Napoleonic wars, an infirmary, a barracks for the Uhlan squadron. After the First World War, part of the barracks was given to the police, while the main museum of the Insterburg Antiquities Society was opened in the remainder. The castle was badly damaged in 1945 during the assault by Soviet troops, and in the post-war years by a fire. Due to the efforts of local enthusiasts, the remains of ancient buildings have been partially conserved; various historical and cultural events are held in the castle. In 2010, Insterburg Castle was transferred to the ownership of the Russian Orthodox Church. Labiau Castle traces its history from the Labegove fortress, located on the Labe River (today's Deima) to protect the waterway that ran along the Deima to the Curonian Lagoon and to the Memel Fortress. The fortress has been mentioned in historical documents since 1258. For a long time the castle was an advanced defensive position in the wars with Lithuania. Twice - in 1758 and 1813 - it was engaged in Russian troops. In 1860, it lost its military significance and was rebuilt as a prison. It was used in this capacity until 1963 (it was taken by Soviet troops in January 1945). Badly damaged in 1968 by fire. The castle houses the MBU "Polessky CDC", the museum of puppets, the museum of the city of Polessk and the INS-theater "Labiau". Schaaken Castle is located on the shore of the Curonian Lagoon in the village. Nekrasovo. The word "schaaken" is of Prussian origin and means "grass". Erected by the Teutonic Order on the site of the Prussian fortress Zoke, it served as a stronghold on the coast of the bay, on the ice of which Prussian and Lithuanian tribes often raided. Until 1871 the castle belonged to the royal dynasty. Three times, in 1711, 1712 and 1717, the castle was visited by Tsar Peter I. During the Second World War, Schaaken was almost not injured, in Soviet times it was given over to housing, in the 1990s, local residents began to dismantle it into bricks. In the early 2000s, attempts were made to save the castle, the restoration of walls and buildings began, a private museum was opened, and excursions began to be held. The castle belongs to the Russian Orthodox Church. In Kaliningrad and some other cities of the region, examples of civil buildings of the late 19th and early 20th centuries have been preserved. The condition, again, is often deplorable. An interesting layer of the heritage of the Kaliningrad region is the defensive structures of the 19th and 20th centuries. First of all, this is the system of city fortifications of Kaliningrad and the sea fortress Pillau (Baltiysk). ==Do== ==Eat== {{see also|Russian cuisine}} The cuisine practically does not have any local flavor, but a large number of beer-themed establishments and a strong presence of Lithuanian, German and Polish cuisines can be noted. Several private breweries operate in the region. On the "continental" territory of Russia, the myth of a truly Kaliningrad dish, bedbugs, is widespread. According to the Kaliningraders themselves, hardly one in ten has tried this dish at least once in their life. Additionally, the food is much cheaper than [[Moscow]] and much of [[Russia]] proper. ==Drink== ==Stay safe== Many roads in the Kaliningrad region have a pre-war shape and width. Since the time of the German government, there have been close plantings of linden trees along the roads. The local name for such landings is "the last soldiers of the Reich", which is not entirely correct. Many plantings were carried out already under the USSR, this is clearly seen in the age of lindens, often not exceeding 50 years. Pump trees help keep the roadway intact from landslides. In summer, lindens provide a pleasant shade, a motorist standing in a traffic jam will surely appreciate it. However, there is a local saying: "A tree ran across his path", so you should respect the speed limit and be careful when overtaking/passing and cornering. ==Go next== * [[Poland]] * [[Lithuania]] {{outlineregion}} {{geo|54.8000|21.4167|zoom=8}} {{IsPartOf|Russia}} qkorpa58n7c56u6w04ygc40vkxiljue 0 16873 5289010 5222447 2026-06-07T07:00:36Z Ponkipo 2301478 /* JR Rapid Service */ more info and details on this train split... yeah, I've missed the flight because of that sht :D 5289010 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Night Shot of Kansai International Airport Osaka prefecture Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Kansai International Airport''' ({{IATA|KIX}}; 関西国際空港 ''Kansai-kokusai-kūkō'', commonly 関空 ''Kankū'') is the main international airport of [[Japan]]'s [[Kansai]] region, including the cities of [[Osaka]], [[Kyoto]] and [[Kobe]]. ==Understand== [[Image:Kansai_International_Airport_Departures.JPG|thumb|250px|Kansai Airport, International Departures Hall]] [[File:Kix aerial photo.jpg|thumb|150px|It's on an artificial island in the middle of Osaka Bay to mitigate noise problems.]] Kansai International Airport was opened in 1994 on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, 40 km to the south of the city of Osaka. It is considered one of the most expensive civil engineering projects in the world. It is estimated that over US$20 billion has been spent between airport construction and fortification of the island, as the soft soils of the Osaka Bay have left the airport sinking into the water under its own weight far faster than predicted. Unlike [[Narita International Airport|Tokyo's Narita]], Kansai has fairly good domestic connections throughout Japan, making it a good choice for transiting onward. However, if you're flying domestically and your final destination is in [[Kansai]], it probably makes more sense to fly to the more centrally-located [[Osaka]] (Itami) or [[Kobe]] airports instead. The main terminal, '''Terminal 1''', is designed by star [[Italy|Italian]] architect Renzo Piano. It is reputedly the longest building in the world at 1.7 km, over one mile, from end to end. For international flights, arrivals are on the 1st floor while departures are from the 4th floor. Domestic flights are handled on the 2nd floor. '''Terminal 2''' is a terminal designed for low-cost airlines (LCCs), with no jet bridges, no A/C and no public transportation: you'll need to catch a free shuttle bus to T1/Aeroplaza (buses every 5 min or so, travel time 7 min). When it rains, passengers are lent umbrellas for their walk to their plane. Most LCCs prefer to stay at Terminal 1 despite higher operating costs, leaving Peach Aviation, Jeju Air, and Spring Airlines as the only tenants. The '''Aeroplaza''' (エアロプラザ Earopuraza), across from Terminal 1, contains restaurants, shops, and a hotel (Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport), and is the place to go if you have time to kill before entering security. This is also where the shuttle buses to T2 depart. ===Airport information === * [https://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/en/ Kansai International Airport] website ==Flights== '''Terminal 1''' - The main terminal, used by all full-service airlines as well as most low-cost carriers including AirAsia and Jetstar. '''Terminal 2''' - Low-cost carrier terminal. As of 2025, used only by Peach Aviation, Jeju Air, and Spring Airlines. ==Ground transportation== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Recommendations''' ! !! Fast !! Cheap |- ! [[Osaka]] (Namba area) | Nankai rapi:t || Nankai Rapid Service |- ![[Osaka]] (Umeda area) |JR Haruka |JR Rapid Service |- ! [[Kyoto]] | JR Haruka || JR Rapid Service |- ! Kobe | Limousine bus || Ferry and AGT line |- ! Kobe Airport | colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" | Ferry |- ! Itami Airport | colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" | Limousine bus |} ===By train=== The most practical means of getting to Osaka and Kyoto is by train. All trains leave from the Kansai Airport station across the road from the arrivals hall; there is a clearly marked walkway on the 2nd floor. ICOCA/PiTaPa smart cards and IC cards from other regions (e.g., SUICA, PASMO, TOICA, KITACA) are valid for travel to/from the airport, and can be purchased from and returned to its ticket offices; see [[Kansai]] for more details. You have a choice of two companies operating four services: ====JR Haruka==== [[Image:JR_West_281_Haruka.jpg|thumb|240px|JR West ''Haruka'']] The JR West ''Haruka'' (はるか) limited expresses run from the airport every 30-60 minutes. The major stops on the ''Haruka'' are Tennoji (30 min, ¥1740), Osaka (45 min, ¥2200), Shin-Osaka (50 min, ¥2380) and Kyoto (75 min, ¥2900). The fares listed are for non-reserved ordinary seats. The Haruka is the easiest and fastest way to reach Kyoto, and you can connect to the Shinkansen (bullet train) at Shin-Osaka. ''Haruka'' trains began serving the new underground platforms at Osaka station in March 2023, offering easier access to the [[Umeda]] area and to local JR services towards [[Kyoto]] and [[Kobe]]. The '''Japan Rail Pass''' can be used for the ''Haruka''. You can exchange your rail pass voucher for the pass at the JR ticket counter. Short range and regional passes are also available that include travel on the ''Haruka''. An example is the '''[https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/pass/kansai/ Kansai Area Pass]''' that covers all JR commuter trains in Kansai and the immediate vicinity, and also includes the use of ''Haruka'' unreserved seats. A one-day pass costs ¥2400, which if used in conjunction with the ''Haruka'' is a cheaper way to reach cities such as [[Kyoto]], [[Maibara]], [[Kobe]] and [[Himeji]]. ====JR Rapid Service==== The JR Rapid Service, the ''kankū-kaisoku'' (関空快速), runs along the same tracks to Tennoji (50 min, ¥1080), but then diverges along the Osaka Loop Line to Osaka station/Umeda (70 min, ¥1210) and terminus Kyobashi (80 min, ¥1210). All seats are non-reserved and trains depart every 20 minutes; the trains can get crowded at rush hour. The Rapid Service is convenient for connections onward towards Kobe or Kyoto; change trains at Osaka station. An advantage of the Rapid Service over the ''Haruka'' at Osaka station is that the Rapid stops at the overground Osaka Loop Line platforms, while the ''Haruka'' stops at platforms underground. Unlike the ''Haruka'', however, the Rapid does ''not'' go to any Shinkansen stations; to get to Shin-Osaka from the Rapid, you must transfer at Osaka to a local or rapid train bound for Kyoto. ===== Train split at Hineno station on the way to the airport from Osaka ===== If you are heading from Osaka to Kansai Airport on the rapid service, '''it's crucial to board one of the first four cars of the train''', because at '''Hineno''' station the train will split with the front four cars heading to the airport and the last four heading to [[Wakayama]] down along the coast. '''Navigation in Google Maps will not mention that important split detail''' for some reason, saying only "''Continue on the same vehicle''", which, if you unknowingly picked one of the last four cars and continued on the Wakayama route without looking at the map, can result in you unexpectedly extending your travel in Japan and spending at least 30 additional minutes to backtrack and get to the airport - and potentially missing your flight because of that. ====Nankai rapi:t==== [[Image:Kansai Airport Expressway.JPG|thumb|240px|Nankai Railway's '''''rapi:t'''''.]] The Nankai ''rapi:t'' is an all-reserved train service that runs to Namba station in Osaka in around 35-40 minutes. Trains run every half hour throughout the day (on weekdays, service is hourly in the mornings until 09:00). All services to Namba call at Tengachaya (change to the subway) and Shin-Imamiya (change to the JR, subway and Hankai tram lines), with a few additional stops depending on the type of run. The fare is ¥1490 each way for regular seats, and ¥1700 for premium "super seats". Nankai sells advance tickets on its website for a discount. The rapi:t and Rapid Service are the recommended means of going to central Osaka. ====Nankai Airport Express==== Nankai Airport Express trains, called the ''kūkō-kyūkō'' (空港急行) in Japanese, run along the same tracks to the same destination, but like their JR counterparts stop more often and may get crowded. The trip to Namba takes 45 min and costs ¥930, making this the cheapest of the four options, unless your final destination is a JR station in Osaka (e.g., Universal City). If you are considering a multi-day Kansai rail pass, consider this before buying your ticket, as it includes transport on the Nankai Airport Express (it used to be known as "rapid", do not confuse it with more expensive rapi:t). You can buy multi-day Kansai rail passes at the information desk at the airport. Nankai offers discounted tickets traveling between Kansai Airport and the Kansai region's major cities. * To Osaka, the '''Kanku Chikatoku Ticket''' (¥1020) includes travel on the Nankai Rapid Service to Namba station, and from there to any station in the entire Osaka Subway system. The '''Yokoso! Osaka Ticket''' (¥1580) covers a trip on the Nankai Rapid Service to Namba and also includes a one-day unlimited pass for Osaka city subways and buses to be used the same day or the next day. * To Kobe, the '''Kobe Access Ticket''' (¥1150) includes travel on the Nankai Rapid Service to Namba station, and from there to any station on the Hanshin Railway as far as Sannomiya and Motomachi. * To Kyoto, the '''Kyoto Access Ticket''' (¥1250) includes travel on the Nankai Rapid Service to Tengachaya station. From there you are permitted to transfer to the Osaka Subway Sakaisuji Line; these trains continue on to the Hankyu Railway. A second change of trains at Awaji will allow you to continue on to central Kyoto on the Hankyu Main Line. Using this ticket you can reach Karasuma and Kawaramachi stations in approximately 1 hr 45 min. * To Nara, the '''Nara Access Ticket''' (¥1250 each way) includes travel on the Nankai Rapid Service to Namba station, and from there to Nara on the Kintetsu Railway. This ticket can only be purchased at Kansai Airport. ===By bus=== [http://www.kate.co.jp/pc/index_e.html '''Airport Limousine buses'''] leave for various destinations throughout Kansai. Buses leave from the 1st floor of Terminal 1, directly outside the arrivals hall, with select buses also leaving from Terminal 2. The cost is comparable to or slightly higher than the train, but some buses go directly to major hotels. Some of the main destinations in the area include: * [[Wakayama]] (40 min, ¥1200) * Osaka City Air Terminal (OCAT) in Namba (50 min, ¥1100) * Hotel New Hankyu and Herbis Osaka, near Umeda and JR Osaka stations (1 hr, ¥1600) * Kyoto Station (1 hr 30 min, ¥2800) * Kobe Sannomiya (1 hr 5 min, ¥2000) The bus is also the only practical option for connecting to Osaka's Itami Airport for domestic flights (1 hr 45 min, ¥1950). ===By boat=== The [https://www.kobe-access.jp/eng/ '''Bay Shuttle'''] is a high-speed ferry service that runs to and from [[Kobe]] Airport. Ferries run once per hour for most of the day and make the run in 31 minutes. A free bus at Kansai Airport shuttles passengers between the two terminals and the boat pier. The regular fare is ¥1,880, but foreign tourists can ride for ¥500 each way by presenting their passport. Via the ferry, shuttle bus and the Port Liner AGT line, Sannomiya (central Kobe) can be reached in about one hour; the fare for the Port Liner train is included with the ferry ticket. ===By taxi=== Flat-fare taxis to Osaka city depart from designated taxi ranks and cost ¥13000-17000. Expect a taxi ride to Kyoto to cost in the range of ¥32000. Consider getting into the cities by public transport (i.e. train, limousine bus), then take a taxi to your destination. ===By car=== Kansai Airport is about a 7-minute drive from Rinku Junction on the Hanshin Expressway Bayshore Route (Route 4). A toll is collected when departing the airport over the access bridge. ==Get around== [http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/t2/en/access/images/bus_info.pdf Free shuttle buses]{{Dead link|date=March 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (outside security) connect Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at regular intervals between 05:00 and 23:00, departing every 2-10 minutes and taking about 7 minutes. Within Terminal 1, two Wing Shuttle trains connect the central area to the tips of the North and South Wings, shaving half a kilometer off your walk. ==Wait== [[File:KANKU ROUNGE CLUB LOUNGE08s3s4440.jpg|thumb|Kanku Lounge]] * The '''Sky View''' ({{phone|+81 72-455-2082}}) is open year round. Shuttle buses run from the passenger terminal building, and take about 6 minutes (¥100 adults, ¥50 children). There is an observation deck (08:00-22:00), an amusement floor (M-F 10:00-18:00, Sa Su 10:00-20:00), a restaurant floor (11:00-22:00, last call 20:00), and a shopping floor (10:00-20:00). * '''[http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/en/news/070227/index.html Kanku Lounge]{{Dead link|date=March 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' ({{phone|+81 72-455-2092}}, open 24 hours), On the second floor. Basic lounge open to all visitors, offering massage, PC desks, shower booths (¥500), women's room, kids' play room and business center. ¥300 for the first 30 min, then ¥600/hour. * '''Refresh Room''' ({{phone|+81 72-455-2792}}, open 09:00-21:00, reception to 20:00), in the international departure area (4F), offers coin-op electronic massage chairs (¥200 for 10 minutes), regular massage chairs for ¥500 per hour, shower rooms (¥600 for 30 minutes, towels and soap included) and personal lounges with beds for ¥1,000 per hour (¥500 per hour thereafter). * The '''Kids Room''' ({{phone|+81 72-455-2791}} open 09:30-18:30), also in the international departure area (4F), has facilities for children from infants to seven years old, accompanied by a parent or guardian. The playroom, infant room and nursing room are free, and complimentary baby food and diapers are offered (one per child). * {{see | name=Card Members Lounges | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-04 | content=The 3 lounges accessible to Priority Pass members, all of them in the international departures area on the second floor. "Rokko" is in the North Wing, opposite Gate 12 (open 09:00-12:30); "Kongo" in the South Wing, opposite Gate 29 (09:00-18:00); "Annex Rokko" right next to the intermediate people mover station in the North Wing (08:00-21:00). }} ==Eat and drink== [[File:Aeroplaza Izumisano Osaka pref Japan06s5.jpg|thumb|Aeroplaza]] There are two '''convenience stores''' at the north end of the Passenger Terminal building (2F) and the Aeroplaza (1F). The '''Aeroplaza''' (3F) is filled with eateries and shops for passengers who wish to do some last minute shopping. Although not as atrocious as some other international airports, prices may be slightly higher than on the mainland. At the arrival hall and on the departure floor, there are a few Starbucks coffee shops (open until 22:00). * There are 47 restaurants in the [http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/en/resshop/index.html Passenger Terminal]{{Dead link|date=March 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, primarily on the 2nd and 3rd floors. Generally, these are less expensive than the airside options. ** '''Matsuya''' (松屋) (3F) is a cheap Japanese fast food staple, open 24 hours, offering beef bowls. ** '''551 Horai''' (2F). A Chinese restaurant featuring "Butaman" - a pork meat pie something like piroshki, famous in Osaka. * In the '''international departures''' area, your options are limited: a few coffee shops and convenience stores, plus Ganko Sushi in the middle of the main building, between the two immigration counters. The selection is limited relative to the landside portion of the terminal - if you have extra time, consider eating before going through the security checkpoint. * For slightly cheaper eats, try the shops on the main floor of the hotel building. This area is also a good place for gift shopping, and has several other amenities such as a video arcade. Food and retail outlets usually close by 22:00. * In the '''Aeroplaza''' (3F), there is a basic "Japanese-style pub". * '''Hotel Nikko Kansai''' is the only other place for a pre-flight drink, with bars on the 11th floor. * Budget travellers: on the terminal 4th floor, there is a variety shop called Air Rout, which sells beer and shochu-based drinks (chu-hai) at regular Japanese prices (about US$2 per can, much cheaper than most options), if you are satisfied to sit in general areas and drink beer. ==Buy== * ATMs for cash withdrawal are available throughout the airport. Machines that accept International ATM cards include Seven Bank (First Floor near the International North Arrival Gate, Second Floor concourse and Fourth Floor International Departure Lobby), Japan Post (Second Floor concourse) and AEON Bank (Second Floor concourse). If you have a Maestro-issued EMV chip card (i.e. IC, chip-and-pin), you can only use the Seven Bank and AEON ATM machines. * Currency Exchange facilities are available around the airport, with most open from the early morning until the late evening. * The '''Aeroplaza''' (3F) features several stores, including '''Uniqlo''' for cheap, foreigner-sized clothing. * {{buy | name=Rinku Premium Outlets / Aeon Rinku Shopping Center | alt= | url=http://www.premiumoutlets.co.jp/rinku/index.html | email= | address=3-28 Rinku-ourai-minami, Izumisano | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+81 72-458-4600 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:00 to 20:00 | price= | content=There are over 150 shops and restaurants. A shuttle bus runs from the north end of the international arrivals area outside the first floor of the airport. It takes about 10 minutes and costs &yen;100. By taxi, it is about &yen;3,000 from airport. }} * '''Sky Shop Town''', on the same shuttle bus route, is in the '''Sky View''' (see above) area. * '''Hotel Nikko Kansai''' (see below) also features an upscale gift shop. * Numerous '''duty-free shops''' populate the international departures gate area. ==Connect== Small '''internet''' [http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/en/service/internet/index.html#_01 kiosks]{{Dead link|date=March 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} are available throughout the airport. In the arrivals building, they cost ¥100 for 15 minutes, but once you're through the gates in the international departures area, access is free - look for the ''e'' symbol "information" computers. There is also [http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/en/service/internet/index.html#_02 free wireless internet]{{Dead link|date=March 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} access in many parts of the terminal building. As of end of 2013 the speed of the connection is quite slow and on some gates the connection to the internet times out. ==Cope== * There are '''nursing rooms''' on the second, third and fourth floors, inside the women's restrooms, and near the domestic and international gates. * '''Business Center ''' ({{phone|+81 72-456-7151}}, open 08:00-20:00) 4th floor. * Coin-Operated Photo Booths, 4th and 2nd floor. 24 hr. ¥700. * '''Prayer room''', in the international departure area (4F), near "Refresh Room". * There is a '''post office''' on the 2nd floor, with an ATM that accepts international credit cards. Open M-F 08:00-21:00, weekends & holidays 09:00-17:00. * If you're feeling unwell, there is a '''health clinic''' ({{phone|+81 72-456-7185}}; 09:00-17:00 regular hours, emergency treatment available 24 hours) on the second floor provided by Kinki University Hospital. * There is a hospital at Rinku-Town (about 10 minutes by car), '''[http://www.rgmc.izumisano.osaka.jp/10_E/index.html Rinku General Medical Center]''', with English, Portuguese, Chinese and Spanish-speaking staff. ({{phone|+81 72-469-3111}}) * There is a '''dental clinic''' ({{phone|+81 72-456-8601}}; open Sa Su 09:30-13:00, 14:00-19:30) on the third floor. Walk-ins are welcome. * On the other hand, if you've had it with your good health, there are plenty of '''smoking rooms''' once you're through the international departures gate (4F) and on the domestic level (2F). *There is a '''[http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/en/service/safe/index.html#_02 Police office]{{Dead link|date=March 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' in Kansai airport, 2nd floor North Area. English, French, German, Spanish, Chinese, Korean and Japanese Sign Language are understood. ==Sleep== ===Budget=== The airport terminal is open 24/7, so you can sleep in there. Blankets are also available from the information centers for free (until 23:00). If you're willing to pay a bit extra, the Kanku Lounge offers a 9-hour package for ¥3800. * {{sleep | name=First Cabin Kansai Airport | alt= | url=https://first-cabin.jp/hotels/kansaikukou/ | email= | address=1 Senshu Kuko kita, Izumisano City | lat=34.436771 | long=135.242616 | directions=in Terminal 1, Aeroplaza third floor | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Small cabin (2 m²): men ¥4500–5000, women ¥5600; larger cabin (4 m²): ¥6600 | lastedit=2017-10-07 | content=A capsule hotel with 153 cabins and a common bath. }} * {{sleep|name=Kansai Airport Izumisano First Hotel|alt=|url=http://firsthotel.jp|email=first001@silver.ocn.ne.jp|address=3-4-18 Uemachi, Izumisano-shi|lat=34.410148|long=135.318643|directions=3 minutes walk south-east from Nankai Izumisano station|phone=+81 72-462-0011|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=15:00|checkout=11:00|price=|lastedit=2018-01-29|content=Provides airport shuttle bus service.}} * * {{sleep | name=Hotel Aston Plaza Kansai Airport | alt= | url=https://www.aston-kix.com/en | email=info@aston-kix.com | address=1-674 Minaminakayasumatsu, Izumisano-shi | lat=34.392718 | long=135.305730 | directions=15-20 minutes walk south-east from Hagurazaki station | phone=+81 72-490-2100 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2018-01-29 | content=Provides complimentary buffet breakfast and free 15-minute airport shuttle bus service. }} ===Mid-range=== There are several hotels across the bridge near Rinku-Town Station, 6 minutes away by JR or Nankai. For most tourists it hardly seems worth using them, since once you have boarded the train, you might as well go to your final destination, but they can come in handy for early morning departures or overnight connections. * {{sleep|name=Kansai Airport Spa Hotel Garden Palace|alt=|url=https://www.gardenpalace-spa.co.jp/|email=webmaster@gardenpalace-spa.co.jp|address=1-3-51 Nakamachi, Izumisano|lat=34.402991|long=135.317230|directions=|phone=+81 72-462-4026|tollfree=|fax=+81 72-461-1277|checkin=|checkout=|price=|lastedit=2018-01-29|content=Offers pick-up shuttle bus service from Kansai International Airport, JR Rinku-town station, Hineno station and the Izumisano station to the hotel.}} * {{sleep | name=Bellevue Garden Hotel Kansai International Airport | alt=formerly Ramada Kansai Airport | url=http://www.bellevue-kix.com/ | email= | address=3-3-34 Ichibanishi, Izumisano | lat=34.408089 | long=135.319878 | directions=10 minutes walk south-east from Rinku-Town station | phone=+81 72-469-1112 | tollfree= | fax=+81 72-469-5660 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rack rate &yen;8000, advance booking discounts available | lastedit=2018-01-26 | content=Over 500 rooms. Provides 15-minute airport shuttle bus service. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Sun Plus Yutaka | alt= | url=http://hotelsunplus-yutaka.com/ | email= | address=3-3-4 Minato, Izumisano | lat=34.420051 | long=135.327184 | directions= | phone=0120-48-2911 (domestic), +81 72-461-2911 | tollfree= | fax=+81 72-461-2921 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single rooms &yen;6,300 | lastedit=2018-01-29 | content=Free pick up service from Rinku-Town Station, and free delivery to the airport. }} * {{sleep | name=Hatago Inn Kansai Airport | alt= | url=https://www.hatagoinn.com/hka/ | email=hatagoinn-hka@solarehotels.com | address=2-85 Rinku-orai-kita, Izumisano-shi | lat=34.413635 | long=135.304341 | directions=500 m north-east of Rinku-Town station | phone=+81 72-458-9011 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=10:00 | price= | lastedit=2018-01-29 | content=100 guest rooms, parking for 86 vehicles, library & lounge, large bath (1 location each for men and women), lobby, coin laundry, vending machine, ice maker, designated smoking area and free Wi-Fi in common areas and all guest rooms. Does not provides airport shuttle bus service. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Hotel nikko kansai airport 03.JPG|right|thumb|250px|Aeroplaza in front, and Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport in back.]] There is only one hotel on the artificial island: * {{sleep | name=Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport | alt= | url=https://www.nikkokix.com/index.html | email=rooms@nikkokix.com | address=1 Senshu-kuko kita Izumisano-shi | lat=34.43668 | long=135.24253 | directions=take the skybridge to Aeroplaza | phone=+81 72-455-1111 | tollfree= | fax=+81-72-455-1155 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single rooms from &yen;22,000, advance booking discounts available | lastedit=2018-01-29 | content= 576 guest rooms. Directly connected to the airport by a walkway, and featuring restaurants, a wine bar, a business center, etc. Airline crews use this hotel. It is possible to get a room "free" as part of a JAL international flight if there is no connecting flight on the day you arrive. }} Across the bridge in Izumisano-shi: * {{sleep | name=Star Gate Hotel Kansai Airport | alt= | url=http://www.s-gth.jp/english/ | email=roomrsv@s-gth.jp | address=1 Rinkuoraikita, Izumisano-city | lat=34.411388 | long=135.299947 | directions= | phone = +81 72-460-1111 | tollfree= | fax=+81-72-460-1177 | price=Single rooms from &yen;12,600. Advance booking discounts available | checkin= | checkout= |lastedit=2018-01-29| content=56-story hotel run in cooperation with InterContinental Hotels. Provides free airport shuttle bus service. }} * {{sleep | name=Kansai Airport Washington Hotel | alt= | url=https://washington-hotels.jp/kansai/ | email=webmaster@kansai-wh.com | address=1-7 Rinku-Orai-Kita, Izumisano | lat=34.411252 | long=135.301487 | directions=right next to Rinku-Town station | phone=+81 72-461-2222 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=11:00 | price=Rack rate for a single &yen;9500, discounts available for advance bookings | lastedit=2018-01-29 | content=504 guest rooms. Provides airport shuttle bus service. }} * {{sleep | name=Izumisano Center Hotel | alt= | url=http://izumisano-centerhotel.com/ | email=hotel@izumisano-centerhotel.com | address=1-10-37 Takamatsuhigashi, Izumisano | lat=34.409012 | long=135.317523 | directions=250-m walk south-east from Nankai Izumisano station | phone=+81 72-458-1116 | tollfree= | fax=+81 72-458-1117 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2018-01-29 | content= 179 guest rooms. Does not provide airport shuttle bus service. }} ==Nearby== * [https://rinkutown1.jimdofree.com/english-1/ '''Rinku Town''']{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (りんくうタウン) is a shopping and entertainment complex across the bridge from Kansai Airport. It's a 5-minute trip by JR or Nankai train (¥370). {{routebox | image1=Number prefix Nankai Railway line.png | imagesize1=35 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Osaka/Minami|Nanba]] | minorl1=[[Osaka/South|Sumiyoshi Taisha]] ← [[Sakai (Osaka)|Sakai]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Wakayama]]shi | minorr1= | image2=Kansai-Kuko Expwy Route Sign.svg | imagesize2=100 | directionl2=W | majorl2=END | minorl2= | directionr2=S | majorr2=[[Wakayama]] | minorr2=into [[File:Hanwa Expwy Route Sign.svg|88px]] | image3=Kansai-Kuko Expwy Route Sign.svg | imagesize3=100 | directionl3=W | majorl3=END | minorl3= | directionr3=N | majorr3=[[Osaka]] | minorr3=into [[File:Hanshin Urban Expwy Sign 0004.svg|25px]] → [[Sakai (Osaka)|Sakai]] }} {{geo|34.434167|135.232778}} {{IsPartOf|Osaka (prefecture)}} {{usableairport}} 0o22lzhvbz9v1ruuh1edriylkm5hk7l 0 17166 5288956 5287589 2026-06-07T00:03:53Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5288956 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Kökar Wikivoyage Banner.JPG}} '''[http://www.kokar.ax Kökar]''' is a municipality in the archipelago of [[Åland]]. Kökar has a very suitable location for seafaring and the islands are full of prehistoric remnants. The Nordic pilgrimage route St. Olav Waterway (part of the [[Nidaros Path]]) goes through Kökar. The nature here is unique. Most of the forests consist of leaved trees instead of pines, making the landscape very unusual in Finland. There are some rare plants living here, including the European yew. == Understand == Kökar is the southernmost municipality of Åland and one of the least populated parts of Finland, with about 220 permanent residents. Most people live on the main island, particularly around the village of '''Karlby''', which serves as the municipal centre. The Otterböte archaeological site shows that the islands were already used by seal hunters around 3,000 years ago. [[File:Kökar Hafen 1.JPG|thumb|Kökar Harbour]] Franciscan monks established a monastery on the island of Hamnö in the 15th century, making Kökar an important religious and cultural centre. Although the monastery was dissolved in 1539, Kökar Church has remained on Hamnö ever since. The municipality also includes Bogskär, Finland's southernmost outlying islets, about 50 km south of the main island. Despite its small population, Kökar remains a functioning community with a school, library, health-care station and other basic services. Tourism, shipping and farming are important local industries. ==Get in== {{mapframe|59.936451|20.920802|zoom=10}} {{mapshape}} Kökar is served by [https://www.alandstrafiken.ax/en Ålandstrafiken]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ferries from Långnäs on mainland [[Åland]] and Galtby in [[Korpo]]. Ferries from Långnäs run several times a day. Ferries from Galtby run one to three times daily in summer and less frequently in winter. The crossing takes about 2 hr 45 min from Långnäs and 2 hr 30 min from Galtby. All ferries arrive at Harparnäs harbour, which has a summer café and dry toilets. Foot passengers travel free. Vehicle passengers must book in advance and pay a fare. In 2024, fares ranged from about €6 for a bicycle to €164 for a car with a caravan. === By bus === Several daily coaches connect Turku bus station with Galtby ferry harbour (about €16 in 2024). See [https://matkahuolto.fi/en/ Matkahuolto] for schedules. The journey takes about 2 hours. Bus and ferry timetables do not always connect, so an overnight stay in Korpo may sometimes be necessary. On mainland Åland, bus route 5 connects [[Mariehamn]] with Långnäs harbour. === By boat === Guest harbours are located at Hellsö, Brudhäll and Sandvik. Camping, cottages and hotel accommodation are available nearby. * {{listing | name=Sandvik guest harbour & camping | alt=Sandvik marina | url=http://www.sandvik.ax/en/Gästhamn | email=info@sandvik.ax | lat=59.9395 | long=20.8824 | directions=Munkvärvan | phone=+358 457-342-9242 | price=€22 (2019) | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content=50 berths. Electricity, water, laundry, sauna, Wi-Fi, fuel, sewage pump-out, and bicycle and car rental. }} * {{listing | name=Hotell & Restaurang Brudhäll | alt=Brudhäll marina | url=http://brudhall.com/en/node/23 | email=info@brudhall.com | address=Karlby | lat=59.9200 | long=20.9108 | directions=Karlby | phone=+358 400-535-332 | price=€26–90 (2019) | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content=70 berths. Sauna, showers, toilets, laundry, sewage pump-out and Wi-Fi. }} * {{listing | name=Hellsö guest harbour | url=http://www.havspaviljongen.ax/en/guest-harbour | email=info@havspaviljongen.ax | lat=59.9519 | long=20.9229 | directions=Hellsö | phone=+358 457-555-5800 | price=€20 (2019) | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content=More than 50 berths. Electricity, water, toilets, sauna, waste disposal, Wi-Fi and bicycle rental. }} ==Get around== There is no public transport in Kökar but it's easy and very popular option to rent a bike. ''Kollektivtrafik'' from and to the ferry harbour operates Monday–Friday by [https://www.kokar.ax/taxi-kollektivtrafik timetable]. It is free of charge on the main road and €2 outside it. The kollektivtrafik must be booked in advance. * Kökar taxi and kollektivtrafik: {{phone|+358 400-721-207}} During the season there are daily [http://brudhall.com/en/node/26 guided tours]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to '''Kallskär''' by Hotel Brudhäll. '''Kyrkogårdsö''' is on the route of some of the ferries between Kökar and [[Sottunga]] but only by request, and if there is someone going there with a car. Otherwise pedestrians must use a passenger boat (''passbåt'') from Sottunga harbour. During the season the passenger boat operates by a timetable and must be invoked no later than 15 minutes before the ferry arrives at Sottunga and it leaves Sottunga harbour when all the passengers are on board. In the corresponding Ålandstrafiken's timetable ''avg. från X'' means 'the ferry leaves from X', ''ank. Sottunga'' means 'the ferry arrives at Sottunga', and ''passbåtens anlöp till Sottunga färjhamn'' is the deadline for invoking the passenger boat. Off-season the passenger boat operates only by request which must be done at least one day in advance. The passenger boat is free of charge. {{Phone|+358 40-158-0100}}. ==See== [[Image:Kökar_church.jpg|thumb|Kökar Church]] Kökar is one of the few islands in Åland with noticeable contours, showing picturesque cliffs to the east, now set a bit back from the coast. There is a very attractive little church on a separate island that is easily reached on foot from the ferry port by turning east. There are the ruins of an old monastery beside it. As is common in Åland, the bell tower is near to but separate from the main church building. * {{see | name= The Church and Franciscan Monastery Ruins | alt= | url= http://www.kokar.ax/en/kokar/tourism/a-lot-to-experience/the-monastery-ruins-and-hamno| email= | address= | lat=59.9457 | long=20.8664 | directions= in Hamnö | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= free | wikipedia=| image= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content=During the 15th century a Franciscan monastery was founded on Hamnö. This place became a spiritual and cultural centre for the entire archipelago. Today the ruins of the monastery share their site with Kökar's church from 1748. In the chapel beside the church there are archaeological excavations. Exhibition in separate building. }} * {{see | name= The Kökar museum | alt= | url= http://www2.kokar.ax/en-en/kokar/tourism/a-lot-to-experience/the-local-folklore-museum| email= | address= Österbygge| lat=59.9414 | long=20.9518 | directions= | phone= +358 457-524-4077| tollfree= | fax= | hours= Jun 20–Aug 15: daily 11:00–16:00, W 11:00–20:00. Off season by appointment only. | price= | wikipedia=| image= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content= In an old schoolhouse. Has many of the articles and tools used by the seal hunters on display. Get a glimpse of life on Kökar from the 1800s to the 1940s. There are several other buildings on the museum grounds open to the public. Among them a display hall with different types of boats, a crofter's cottage and a shed for livestock. }} * {{see | name= Otterböte bronsåldersboplats | alt= Otterböte broze age settlement| url= http://www2.kokar.ax/en-en/kokar/tourism/a-lot-to-experience/the-settlement-of-the| email= | address= Munkvervan| lat=59.9294 | long=20.8830 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= free | wikipedia=| image= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content= Otterböte settlement from the Bronze Age (1800–500 BC). The settlement is believed to have been used by seal hunters in the winter, not by families. The findings include dwelling remnants, a former well, bones and ceramic fragments. }}<!-- -->[[File:Källskär Kannan.jpg|thumb|upright|Rock formations on Källskär: Källskärskannan]] * {{see | name= Källskär | alt= | url= http://www2.kokar.ax/en-en/kokar/tourism/a-lot-to-experience/kallskar-island| email= | address= | lat=59.874 | long=20.905 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= a day trip €50/person | wikipedia=| image= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-06-09 | content= Outside Kökar main island. For many years, the nobleman Göran Åkerhielm lived on this island. The buildings, the garden and the port that he built are truly creative. Anyone familiar with the Moomin-books recognizes perhaps parts of the houses. Tove Jansson who occasionally came out on visits was inspired from it when she made sketches for the Moomins' house. Also found on the island is one of Åland's most remarkable nature phenomenons, ''Källskärskannan'', which became a protected site in the 1950s. During the season there are daily trips to the island starting from Hotel Brudhäll. }} ==Do== * {{do | name= Hiking path and fortifications on Kalen | alt= | url= http://www2.kokar.ax/en-en/kokar/tourism/a-lot-to-experience/mighty-wievs| email= | address= | lat=59.9358 | long=20.8750 | directions= in Munkvärvan | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= free | wikipedia=| image= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content=The hiking trail on Kalen is about 7 km long and goes through different kinds of vegetation to the prehistoric ruins of Otterböte, Russian and Finnish military remnants and over rocky hills with nice seascape views. The trail also visits a Vålberg ''jungfrudans'' or stone labyrinth (the current maze is a reconstruction as the original one was destroyed by Russians during [[World War I]]). The trail starts from Munkvärvan, ends in Karlby, and is marked with white dots. The trail is not suitable for small children. A guide leaflet (trilingual, also English) is available from the accommodations and stores. }} * {{do | name= Kulturstigen | alt= The Culture trail| url= | email= | address= | lat=59.9414 | long=20.8766 | directions= Hamnö | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= free | wikipedia=| image= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content= A 2-km-long culture-oriented trail in Hamnö. Starting point next to the road, close to the Hamnö bridge. }} * {{do | name= Klobbars vandringsstig | alt= Klobbars hiking trail| url= | email= | address= | lat= 59.9553| long= 20.9672 | directions= Hellsö | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= free | wikipedia=| image= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content= A 2-km-long trail. Starting point at Klobbars Gästhem. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name= Kökar Skärgårdsbutik| alt= | url=http://www.skargardsbutik.fi | email=raimo@skargardsbutik.fi | address= |lat=59.9203 | long=20.9060 | directions= Karlby | phone= +358 457-345-6316| tollfree= | fax= | hours=Peak season: M–F 09:00–20:00, Sa 10:00–18:00, Su 9:00–18:00; June: M–F 10:00–19:00, Sa 10:00–18:00, Su 12:00–16:00 | price= | content= Groceries, hardware, souvenirs. Alko delivery point (order in advance). }} There are small grocery stores in Sandvik guest marina and at Havspaviljongen as well. ==Eat== * '''Svartbröd''', blackbread, as the name implies the bread is almost black. It is round and quite flat but its most characteristic feature is the taste. The blackbread from Kökar is sweeter than the blackbread from the other parts of Åland. Only a few people still know how to bake the Kökar-blackbread, so you have to ask around where you can buy the bread. * '''[https://www.skargardsbrod.ax/?lang=en Skärgårdsbröd Kökar]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' is a local bakery. It runs a café in [[Karlby]]. ==Drink== * '''[http://www.aplagarden.ax/# Peders Aplagård]''' Österbygge is an apple farm. They make different products out of apples like cider, cake, juice and jelly. You can buy directly from the farm or from the food shops on the island. Try ''Koppskärs dricka'' - their malty juniper berry lemonade. ==Sleep== ===Cabins and camping=== * {{sleep | name=Sandvik guest harbour & camping| alt= | url=http://www.sandvik.ax/en | email=info@sandvik.ax | address= Munkvervan | lat= 59.9395| long= 20.8824| directions=3.6 km from the ferry harbour | phone= +358 457-342-9242 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Cabin €45/75 (2/4 persons), own linen; caravan €19, electricity €3; tent €10 + €3.50/person, children 0–12 free | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content= A very popular place. Cabins, camping area and guest harbour. Café with food and a grocery store with boating equipment. Bikes, rowing boats and canoes for rent. Use own linen. Advance booking recommended (not necessary for tents). }} * {{sleep | name=Skinnars | alt= | url= https://www.skinnars.fi/en/ | email= anja.salmi@gmail.com | address= Österbygge | lat= 59.9375| long= 20.9747| directions=8.3 km from the ferry harbour | phone= +358 50-339-4656| tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= cottages €50–85/night | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content= The oldest holiday village in Kökar. }} * {{sleep | name=Havspaviljongen | alt= | url=http://www.havspaviljongen.ax/en/ | email=info@havspaviljongen.ax | address= Hällsö| lat= 59.9519| long= 20.9229| directions=10.2 km from the ferry harbour | phone= +358 457-555-5800| tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= cabins €70–100/night, harbour €20/night | lastedit= 2019-07-13 | content= Cabins and guest marina. Restaurant. A small grocery store. }} ===Guesthouse=== * {{sleep | name= Anton's Gästhem | alt= | url= http://visitkokar.com/en/welcome| email= antons.gasthem@gmail.com | address= Munkvervan| lat= 59.9359| long= 20.8785| directions=3 km from the ferry harbour | phone= +358 40-735-2858 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content=Rooms and apartments close to the ferry harbour and well located for cliff walking and for the church. No breakfast but some facilities for self-catering. Open year-round. }} * {{sleep | name=Klobbars Gästhem och Stugor | alt= Klobbar´s Hostelry & Cabins| url=http://www.klobbars.fi/?language=en | email=info@klobbars.fi | address=Hällsö | lat= 59.9553| long= 20.9672| directions=10.8 km from the ferry harbour | phone=+358 457-345-5444 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms €75–272/night (linen and breakfast included). Cabins €95–126/night in season, linen €10 per bed | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content=Basic hotel, toilets en suite in some rooms. Cabins. Bikes and boats for rent. Sauna. }} ===Hotel=== * {{sleep | name=Hotell & Restaurang Brudhäll| alt= | url=http://brudhall.com/en | email=info@brudhall.com | address= Karlby | lat= 59.9200| long= 20.9108| directions=3.4 km from the ferry harbour | phone= +358 400-535-332 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content= Hotel, restaurant and a guest marina in the main village. }} * {{sleep | name=Havsgården | alt= | url=http://www.havsgarden.com/ | email=havsgarden@aland.net | address= Kyrkogårdsö | lat= 60.036| long= 20.821| directions= | phone= +358 400-419-494 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content= A small hotel on the island Kyrkogårdsö. Rooms and a buffet restaurant. Booking only by phone. Also tours and taxi boat services. }} ==Connect== * [http://www.kokar.ax Kökar municipality] * [http://www.visitaland.com/en Visit Åland], Åland official tourist gateway ==Go next== * The rest of [[Åland]] * The [[Archipelago Sea]] to the east, perhaps along the [[Archipelago Trail]] {{geo|59.9333|20.8833}} {{IsPartOf|Åland}} {{usablecity}} auzo0f9wfbjwezrhwcst3j98l6affhe 0 17309 5288998 5287841 2026-06-07T05:49:19Z ~2026-33745-58 2419399 /* See */ 5288998 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Giraffes in Maasai Mara, Kenya.jpg|caption=Maasai Mara National Reserve}} '''Kenya''' in [[East Africa]] is a pearl in sub-Saharan Africa. From the scenic sandy beaches at the coast, to the [[Nairobi National Park]], to the majestic [[Rift Valley]], the bird life in Lake Naivasha, the hot boiling springs of Lake Baringo, [[Lake Turkana]] and Lake Victoria, Kenya is a very beautiful country with lots of wildlife and scenic features, and is one of the major economic hubs in [[Africa]]. Fondly referred to as the "Jewel of Africa", Kenya is a dream destination for its Swahili heritage and the home of humankind and Safari industry. ==Regions== Kenya is divided into several different regions, each with its own unique characteristics and differences in terms of culture, landscape, climate, and economy: {{Regionlist | regionmap=Kenya Regions map.png | regionmaptext=Kenya regions | regionmapsize=300px | region1name=[[Northern Rift Valley]] | region1color=#A9C496 | region1items= | region1description=Dominated by massive Lake Turkana, the rift is home to a wide range of Kenya's peoples including nomadic herding peoples. | region2name=[[Southern Rift Valley]] | region2color=#71B37B | region2items= | region2description=This region is home to 10 national parks. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, including lakes, mountains, and hot springs. | region3name=[[Coastal Kenya]] | region3color=#6D926D | region3items= | region3description=Kenya's Indian Ocean coastline and is known for its beautiful beaches, Swahili culture, and historical landmarks. | region4name=[[Eastern Kenya]] | region4color=#B5AB81 | region4items= | region4description=The eastern part of Kenya and is known for its arid and semi-arid landscapes, wildlife, and diverse cultures. | region5name=[[Western Kenya]] | region5color=#578E86 | region5items= | region5description=The western part of Kenya is known for its lush green forests, scenic hills, and diverse cultures. The Nyanza Region bordering Lake Victoria offers beautiful beaches, fishing communities, and diverse cultural practices. }} ==Cities and major towns== <!-- THIS LIST IS LIMITED TO 9 CITIES. ANY CHANGES MUST BE DISCUSSED ON THE TALK PAGE FIRST. CHANGES WITHOUT DISCUSSION/APPROVAL WILL BE REVERTED. SEE THE DISCUSSION AT en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Talk:Africa#Cities and Other Destinations --> Kenya has 3 major cities: * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nairobi]]|wikidata=Q3870}} — the cosmopolitan capital city and economic centre of Kenya and most vibrant in the East African region. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mombasa]]|wikidata=Q225641}} — historic port on the Indian Ocean seafront and probably Africa's longest continuously settled town. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kisumu]]|wikidata=Q214485}} — the major city to the west, on the shore of Lake Victoria. Major towns based on size and popularity as tourist destination include: * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lamu]]|wikidata=Q272799}} — main town of the Lamu Archipelago, renowned internationally for its annual cultural festival. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lodwar]]|wikidata=Q995707}} — in the north on the main route to South Sudan with access to Lake Turkana * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Malindi]]|wikidata=Q271411}} — the landing point of Vasco Da Gama in Kenya with a large Italian population * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Meru]]|wikidata=Q934149}} — town near the base of Mount Kenya. It is the crossroads for travel to Nairobi * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nakuru]]|wikidata=Q239421}} — near lake Nakuru National Park and an extinct volcano (Menengai) * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mtwapa]]|wikidata=Q5978252}} - the small town near Mombasa has become a preferred place of residence for European pensioners and is a centre of night life <!-- THIS LIST IS LIMITED TO 9 CITIES. ANY CHANGES MUST BE DISCUSSED ON THE TALK PAGE FIRST. CHANGES WITHOUT DISCUSSION/APPROVAL WILL BE REVERTED. SEE THE DISCUSSION AT en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Talk:Africa#Cities and Other Destinations --> ==National parks== [[File:Mt Kenya landscape.jpg|thumb|Mount Kenya landscape]] <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items.--> '''North of Nairobi:''' These parks, although very interesting and worth visiting, with fewer visitors than the southern parks. *{{marker|name=[[Kakamega Rainforest]]|wikidata=Q1397614}} - last primeval rainforest in the country and home to various monkeys and hundreds of bird species *{{marker|name=[[Aberdare National Park]]|wikidata=Q319356}} — a cool and cloudy national park with lots of large game, and over 250 species of bird recorded *{{marker|name=[[Lake Nakuru National Park]]|wikidata=Q313071}} — a stunning 400 species of bird have been recorded here including the largest flocks of flamingos anywhere on earth *{{marker|name=[[Mount Kenya|Mount Kenya National Park]]|wikidata=Q172070}} — challenging trekking on high peaks '''South of Nairobi:''' The southern parks are the most visited, especially by those who divide their holidays between a safari and time on the beach. *{{marker|name=[[Maasai Mara National Reserve]]|wikidata=Q207724}} — probably the most popular reserve in Kenya due to the high concentration of big cats *{{marker|name=[[Nairobi National Park]]|wikidata=Q739993}} — virtually ''in'' Nairobi and a great option to see large game for those on a tight schedule *{{marker|name=[[Tsavo East National Park]]|wikidata=Q1368818}} — major game park for short safari trips from the coast *{{marker|name=[[Tsavo West National Park]]|wikidata=Q1602738}} — no. 2 game park for short safari trips from the coast *{{marker|name=[[Amboseli National Park]]|wikidata=Q458423}} — a swampy lowland Maasai park that is one of the best places anywhere in Africa to view large mammals, especially elephants <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items.--> See also [[Kenyan national parks]]. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=Kenya in its region (de-facto).svg}} [[File:Nairobi center from KCC - panoramio.jpg|thumb|Nairobi skyline]] Kenya is one of Africa's most visited countries by tourists, and rightfully so - it boasts a diversity of attractions and a well-developed hospitality and tourism sector that most of its neighbors envy. The relative ease of travel, the abundance of tour operators, pleasant year-round climate, natural sights and friendly people all contribute to its relative popularity by African standards. Although made up of many diverse ethnic groups and tribes, Kenyans have a strong sense of national pride. This may be due in part to their unity in the struggle for ''Uhuru'' (Kiswahili: "freedom") – independence from British colonial rule, achieved in 1963. While Kenyans can spot ethnic differences among themselves quite easily, to most foreigners these will not be distinguishable. Outsiders on the whole tend to find Kenyans to be relaxed, hospitable, and joyous. Hostility towards foreigners is uncommon; if anything, some visitors may be uncomfortable with the timidity that comes with a perceived dependence on tourist dollars. [[Lake Turkana]] and the area around is also known as the cradle of mankind as many prehistoric fossils have been discovered. Hominid fossils of significant scientific interest have been found in Rift Valley areas such as Olorgesaille, and it is often believed that this area of Africa is where the human species originated from (although recent discoveries in Ethiopia contest that theory). Economically, the Kenyan story is one of two steps forward, one step back, and so on. The country is one of the more developed in East Africa, and the tourism sector has made it easy for visitors to ignore the prevalence of poverty with all-in luxury safari packages – or commoditize it into a quick and questionable slum tour. The success story of the local startup scene contrasts with the persistent struggles of the underclass and pervasive corruption. In urban Nairobi and Mombasa, chic hotels, golf courses and shopping malls coexist alongside anarchic shantytowns. Rural economies in Kenya are still predominantly agricultural, but with real progress in the 21st century. All this offers an opportunity for travellers of all budgets to mix and match experiences. For a general overview read the Wikivoyage article on [[travel in developing countries]]. ===Climate=== Kenya experiences a wide range of tropical climates. It is hot and humid at the coast, temperate inland, and very dry in the north and northeast. It receives a great deal of sunshine all year round and summer clothes are worn throughout the year. However, it is usually cool at night and early in the morning. Nairobi is at high altitude and can be quite cold, even during the day, between June and August. The long rain season is from April to June, and the short rain season October to December. Rain is sometimes heavy and often falls in the afternoons and evenings. The hottest period is February to March, and the coldest July to August. Game viewing is best in the dry seasons, which are from mid-June to October, and from late-December to mid-March. The annual animal migration – especially migration of the wildebeest – occurs between June and September, with millions of animals taking part. It has been a popular event for film-makers to capture. ===History=== Kenya has been inhabited by people since the beginnings of humanity's existence as a species. [[File:Fort Jesus.JPG|thumb|The Santo Mathias bastion and the main entrance to Fort Jesus, Mombasa]] Arab traders began frequenting the coast of Kenya around the 1st century. Kenya's proximity to the Arabian peninsula invited colonisation, and Arab and Persian settlements spread along the coast in the 8th century. Throughout the centuries, Kenya has played host to many different merchants and explorers (Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, et al.) Coastal Kenya formed part of the '''Swahili Coast''', which comprised of numerous wealthy city-states that engaged in trade across the Indian Ocean and Sahara Desert, one of the most prominent being the city of [[Mombasa]]. Kenya became part of the [[British Empire]] in the late 19th century. In the 1950s, a brutal war took place between independence fighters called the Mau Mau and the British, with horrendous abuses of human rights on both sides. Kenyan nationalist Jomo Kenyatta was arrested in 1952 and with little evidence, tried and imprisoned for supposed management of the Mau Mau Society, eventually being detained for almost 9 years. Considered a national hero, he led the country after it declared independence on 12 December 1963. Through popularity, moderation and shrewd power politics, the Founding Father turned the country into a de facto dictatorship (whether benevolent or malevolent depends on who you talk to). When President Kenyatta died in 1978, Daniel arap Moi became president and, for better or worse, ruled as a dictator for over two decades. Moi did not hesitate to rough up his political opponents, and a key administrative building in Nairobi, Nyayo House, became infamous for the rumoured torture that occurred in its basement. However, some Kenyans do look back at this time more fondly as a period of stability. Following a wave of popular protests, stepped down more or less voluntarily in 2002 to make way for freely contested elections. Those elections were won by Mwai Kibaki, who stayed in office until 2013. Despite genuine economic progress, Kibaki's turn in office was marred by a sense that Kibaki's Gikuyu ethnic group, the country's largest, was consolidating power. This ultimately led to a widespread outbreak of violence in 2007, when his opponent Raila Odinga alleged Kibaki stuffed the ballot boxes to win election. Over 1000 died in the ensuing clashes. Kibaki retained power amidst evidence of tampering on both sides, and with the pre-election polls indicating a razor-thin election, it's impossible to know who the real victor should have been. Relations with Kenya's neighbours are generally stable and friendly – except for [[Somalia]], whose disintegration has prompted security concerns in Kenya. Kenya participates in international military missions attempting to defeat fundamentalist group al-Shabab; as a result, al-Shabab has launched several high-profile terrorist attacks in various locations around the country. Kenyans are therefore sometimes mistrustful or hostile towards Somalis, although there are many Kenyans of Somali heritage throughout the country and many others are refugees who fled the country's civil war. Kenya's relations with other neighbors are generally much smoother, and Kenya is a member of the East African Community (along with [[Burundi]], [[Rwanda]], [[South Sudan]], [[Tanzania]], and [[Uganda]]) which aims to foster cooperation within the region. === Geography === Bisected by the equator, Kenya features a highly diverse geography ranging from tropical Indian Ocean beaches and mangrove swamps to central highlands and arid northern deserts. The central region consists of high-altitude terrain (1,500–3,000 m), offering a temperate climate and fertile agricultural land, divided by the Great Rift Valley. A 402-km coastline bordering the Indian Ocean in the southeast, characterized by sandy beaches, coral reefs, and tropical mangrove swamps. The north and northeast are predominantly arid and semi-arid deserts, comprising roughly 80% of the country's land area. [[Mount Kenya]], Africa’s second-highest mountain at {{m|5,199}}, provides glaciers and water sources for surrounding areas. Major water bodies include Lake Victoria to the west (Africa's largest lake) and the Tana River, flowing into the Indian Ocean. ===People and culture=== Kenya has a diverse population that comprises 47 ethnic communities with a combination of 67% '''Bantus''' (Kikuyu, Swahili, Kamba, Luhya, Meru, Abagusii) and 30% '''Nilotes''' (Maasai, Luo, Samburu, Turkana and Kalenjin). An important non-indigenous ethnic group are the '''Indians''', who were largely brought over by the British as indentured servants during the colonial period and settled around major cities, and are predominantly business people. There is also a small but prominent white community that dates back to the colonial era, mostly of British descent. Notable peoples include the Swahili on the coast, pastoralist communities in the north, farmers in central and western and fishermen around the Lake Victoria basin. The Maasai culture is well known to tourists, despite their being a minor percentage of the Kenyan population. They are renowned for their elaborate upper body adornment and jewellery. ==== Swahili culture ==== Swahili culture is a blend of various influences from the East African coast, including African, Arab, and Indian cultures. It is predominantly found in Kenya, Tanzania, and parts of Uganda, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Here are some of the key aspects of Swahili culture: * Language – Swahili is the most widely spoken language in East Africa, and is a key marker of Swahili culture. It is a Bantu language with significant Arabic, Persian, and Indian loanwords. * Religion – Swahili culture has a strong Islamic influence, with many Swahili people being Muslims. However, there is also a significant Christian population. * Food – Swahili cuisine is a fusion of African, Arab, and Indian influences, with dishes such as pilau (spiced rice), biryani, samosas, and chapati being popular. Coconut milk and spices such as cardamom, cumin, and cinnamon are often used to flavour dishes. * Music and dance – Swahili music is diverse and includes taarab, a form of music that originated in Zanzibar and blends African, Arab, and Indian styles. Traditional Swahili dances include the chakacha, a sensual dance performed by women, and the ngoma, a high-energy dance performed by both men and women. * Art and architecture – Swahili art includes intricately carved wooden doors and furniture, colourful textiles, and woven baskets. Swahili architecture is known for its ornate designs and the use of coral stone and lime mortar in building structures. * Traditional dress – Swahili traditional dress includes the kanga, a colorful piece of cloth worn by women, and the kanzu, a long tunic worn by men. * Hospitality and community – Swahili culture places a strong emphasis on hospitality and community, with extended families and neighbors often playing a key role in daily life. Social gatherings such as weddings, funerals, and religious celebrations are important events that bring people together. ==== Maasai culture ==== Maasai culture is a distinctive and traditional culture of semi-nomadic people who live in parts of Kenya and Tanzania. Here are some of the key aspects of Maasai culture: * Language – The Maasai people speak Maa, a Nilotic language. * Dress – The traditional dress of the Maasai people includes brightly coloured shukas (cloths) and beaded jewellery. Men typically wear a red shuka while women wear more colourful shukas. The Maasai are known for their distinctive style of beadwork, which is used to make intricate jewelry, belts, and other items. * Livelihood – The Maasai people are primarily pastoralists, who rely on their cattle for food, milk, and income. They are known for their ability to live harmoniously with wildlife and have a deep respect for nature. * Social organization – The Maasai are organized into age-sets, which are groups of people who are born within a specific time period. These age-sets play an important role in Maasai social and political life, and each age-set has its own duties and responsibilities. * Religion and beliefs – The Maasai have a monotheistic religion that revolves around a single god named Enkai or Engai. They also have a strong belief in spirits and the power of diviners and medicine men. * Initiation – Initiation is an important rite of passage for Maasai boys and girls. Boys undergo a circumcision ceremony and then spend several years in warrior training, while girls undergo female genital mutilation and are then considered ready for marriage. * Music and dance – Maasai music and dance is an important part of their culture, and is often performed at social gatherings and ceremonies. Maasai music is characterized by high-pitched chanting and vocal harmonies, accompanied by percussion instruments such as drums and rattles. Despite the challenges faced by Maasai people in adapting to modernization and globalization, they have managed to maintain their distinctive cultural identity and way of life. ===Economy=== Kenya is a developing country, with an emerging market economy mostly from its sources of transport infrastructure. Its major agricultural exports are coffee, tea, roses and vegetables. In recent times, Kenya has generated its electricity on renewable resources, mainly geothermal energy. ===Flora and fauna=== Kenya is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, thanks to its varied geography and climate. Here are some of the notable examples of flora and fauna found in Kenya: '''Flora''': * ''Acacia trees'': These trees are a common sight in Kenya's savannahs and are an important food source for giraffes, elephants, and other herbivores. * ''Baobab trees'': These iconic trees can be found throughout Kenya and are known for their distinctive shape and large size. * ''Mount Kenya Afro-alpine zone'': This high-altitude region is home to a variety of unique plant species, including giant lobelias and groundsel trees. * ''Mangrove forests'': These coastal forests provide important habitat for a variety of marine life, including crabs, fish, and birds. '''Fauna''': * ''The Big Five'': Kenya is known for its large mammals, which include elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards, and buffalo. These animals are considered the "Big Five" and are a major draw for tourists. * ''Wildebeest migration'': Each year, millions of wildebeest migrate across the Serengeti plains, crossing into Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve. * ''Endangered species'': Kenya is home to a number of endangered species, including the Grevy's zebra, the black rhino, and the African wild dog. * ''Birdlife'': Kenya is a paradise for bird lovers, with over 1,000 bird species found in the country. Notable species include flamingos, ostriches, and the African fish eagle. ===Holidays=== * '''New Year's Day''' (January 1) * '''Easter''' (Good Friday and Easter Monday) * '''Labour Day''' (May 1) * '''Madaraka Day''' (June 1) * '''Eid al-Fitr''' (variable) Islamic religious observances * '''Mashujaa Day''' (October 20) * '''Jamhuri Day''' (December 12) * '''Christmas''' (December 25) * '''Boxing Day''' (December 26) ===Tourist information === * [https://www.magicalkenya.com Magical Kenya] website ==Talk== {{see also|Swahili phrasebook}} '''English''' and '''[[Swahili phrasebook|Swahili]]''' are the two official languages. As a diverse country with over 40 ethnic groups and 60 languages between them, most Kenyans are multilingual, speaking their native ethnic language along with Swahili, which is the preferred language for interethnic communication. Most people, particularly in urban areas, also have a working knowledge of English, though this will vary depending on their level of education. Efforts to communicate in Swahili are generally greatly appreciated by Kenyans and can become increasingly useful in more rural areas where English speakers are less prevalent. ==Get in== ===Visa=== ̈From 1 January 2024, Kenya abolished visa requirements for all foreign visitors and instead moved to single entry [https://www.etakenya.go.ke Electronic Travel Authorization] (ETA). All countries apart from the countries of the East African Community will need to apply for a ETA to enter Kenya. The ETA costs US$34.09. A few countries will get the ETA for free. [[File:Visa policy of Kenya.svg|thumb|375px|Those from countries in dark green don't need a visa, those from countries in light green need an ETA.]] Holders of single-entry ETA can re-enter Kenya without a new ETA if they have only gone to EAC Partner States: [[Burundi]], [[Democratic Republic of the Congo]], [[Rwanda]], [[South Sudan]], [[Tanzania]] and [[Uganda]] and declare it upon re-entry to Kenya with proof of passport stamps. When you re-enter, make sure to do it within the time frame you were given on arrival in Kenya. Ask for the full 90 days on arrival. '''Plastic bags are forbidden in Kenya'''. The ban on the import of plastic bags also applies to tourists. There are strict penalties. Plastic bags in your baggage are to be handed in upon arrival in Kenya. ===By plane=== [https://www.kenya-airways.com '''Kenya Airways'''] (KQ) is the national airline, and one of the largest airlines in Africa. KQ has extensive regional (e.g. to Cape Town, Johannesburg, Harare, Cairo, Entebbe, Accra) and international connections (e.g. to Bangkok, Dubai, London, Amsterdam, New York City, Mumbai). It is also a SkyTeam associate member. Kenya has three international airports: * Jomo Kenyatta International Airport ({{IATA|NBO}}) in [[Nairobi]]. Approximately twenty minutes from the main business district. * Moi International Airport in [[Mombasa]]. * [[Eldoret]] International Airport (local flights and cargo only). Jomo Kenyatta is the primary arrival point for visitors flying into Kenya. There are excellent flight connections provided by KQ to major tourist destinations such as Mombasa, Kisumu and Malindi. Airlines that serve NBO are: Air Arabia, African Express Airways, Air Mauritius, Lufthansa, British Airways, Brussels Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Condor Airlines, Egypt Air, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Etihad Airways, Fly Sax, Kenya Airways, KLM Royal Dutch, LAM Mozambique airlines, Jubba airways, Precision Air Tanzania, Qatar Airways, Saudi Arabian Airlines, South African Airways, RwandAir, Swiss International Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Jambo Jet. More airlines are flying to Kenya, and Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport has become a hub for East and Central Africa. Kenya Airways (among others) also provides direct flights from Nairobi to several West African countries, e.g., Lagos in Nigeria, Bamako in Mali, as well as direct flights to Bangkok and connections to Hong Kong and China. ===By train=== It is not possible to enter or leave Kenya by train as of 2024. Kenya Railways have however stated their intent to revive the existing colonial network to the border of [[Uganda]] and [[Tanzania]], opening the possibilities of international travel in the near future. ===By car=== Major roads are typically paved with various states of maintenance though secondary roads outside of urban areas are typically unpaved. All neighbouring countries can be accessed by road, including Ethiopia via the border town of [[Moyale]], Uganda via [[Busia]] or Malaba, and Tanzania via Namanga or Lungalunga. Turkana, Marsabit, Moyale, Mandera, Garissa, Isiolo, and some parts of Ijara are considered insecure and prone to banditry and terrorist attacks from Somalia. Before driving to the northern region, ensure you check whether there are any security advisories or whether you need to prearrange security escort. ===By bus=== Regular bus services operate between: Nairobi (Kenya) & Arusha (Tanzania); Nairobi (Kenya) & Kampala (Uganda); Mombasa (Kenya) & Dar es Salaam (Tanzania); Kisumu (Kenya) & Kampala (Uganda); * '''Modern coast express''' has buses from *Nairobi to [[Dar es Salaam]]. *Nairobi to [[Kampala]]. *Nairobi to [[Jinja]]. *Nairobi to [[Kigali]]. *Nairobi to [[Arusha]]. *Nairobi to [[Moshi]]. *Nairobi to [[Mwanza]]. *Mombasa to [[Dar es Salaam]]. *Mombasa to [[Tanga]]. *Kisumu to [[Kampala]]. ===By boat=== This is limited to the coastal area, e.g. cruises from Zanzibar to Mombasa. ==Get around== ===By plane=== Most international visitors will arrive through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi (NBO). If you are already in Nairobi and need to get to the airport, plan at least two hours to get there as the main road to the airport is subject to heavy traffic jams, and security checks are tedious. '''[https://www.kenya-airways.com Kenya Airways]''' (KQ) offers the most scheduled connections from JKIA and regular daily flights to the following destinations: [[Mombasa]], [[Malindi]], [[Lamu]] and [[Kisumu]]. Check in is 45 minutes before departure for local flights and two hours for international. Pay attention to the announcements while in Unit 3 of JKIA as passengers on different flights are put in the same waiting area. If you are flying from another destination to Nairobi and using Kenya Airways in the tourist high season (July–September, December–February), KQ flights are frequently delayed and preference is given to international connecting passengers, platinum frequent-flyer card holders, and first-class passengers. Domestic flights operated on Embraer E190 Aircraft. '''[http://www.jambojet.com Jambojet]''' is a low-cost, no-frills airline also flies from JKIA and offers scheduled connections to Mombasa, Malindi, Lamu, Kisumu, Eldoret, Ukunda (Diani). Plans to extend the service to the East African region are underway. Jambojet now fly from Uganda. A one-way flight to Mombasa from Nairobi can cost as little as [[Kenya#Money|Ksh]] 3500 depending on the timing (checked luggage requires an additional fee). Tickets can be booked online and paid for with Visa and Mastercard. The airline's Domestic flights operated on Bombardier Dash 8 Q400 Turboprop Aircraft. '''Airkenya, Safarilink, Skyward Express''' have flights from '''Wilson Airport''' Nairobi to Ukunda/Diani, Malindi, Lamu, [[Amboseli National Park]], Maasai Mara, [[Meru]], [[Nanyuki]] and Samburu. The lounge features a Dormans cafe. Check in can be done up to 15 minutes before departure. Wilson Airport was once the busiest airport in Africa outside South Africa and remains a major hub for local flights to the nature reserves in Kenya and to cities in neighbouring countries. Anyone using Airkenya is advised to lock their checked-in bags. Things have been known to go missing from luggage while in the care of Airkenya. Most charter tourists fly directly to either of the coastal airports of Mombasa or Malindi. ===By bus=== Kenya has a network of long-distance bus lines. Speed is limited to 80&nbsp;km/h, and the highways can be very bumpy and dusty, so be sure to pick a comfortable and reputable coach company such as Modern Coast for the long journeys. Local buses in town are run by private companies, such as the green and yellow Citi Hoppa, which provide transportation along various routes for Ksh 50–100. They have regular services in and out of the Nairobi city suburbs. They usually seat 20–35 passengers (no standing passengers are allowed by law) and are a cleaner and less hectic mode of transport than matatus, while still plying many of the same routes. * [http://theguardiancoach.com Guardian Coach] * [https://www.modern.co.ke/ Modern Coast] ===By matatu=== [[File:MatatuMombasa.JPG|thumb|A matatu in Mombasa]] Matatus are privately operated minibuses, typically for 14 or 25 passengers and operating over short and medium distances. They provide a very cheap and quick method of transport in all the major towns and many rural areas. The name matatu comes from the Kiswahili word for the number three – ''tatu'' – because some time ago the standard fare was three ten-cent coins. Matatus operate along set routes, picking and dropping off passengers at any point along the way. Most rides within cities cost Ksh 40–100. [[File:Matatu in Mombasa.jpg|thumb|A matatu with American rapper Notorious BIG's mural in Mombasa]] Many matatus are poorly maintained and many are to be found with a fascinating and colourful décor — usually global icons in sports and music, designer brands, et al. — which is a major feature of Kenyan urban culture. Travel by matatu can be risky as the vehicles are often extremely badly driven, with matatu drivers swerving in and out of traffic and stopping at a moment's notice by the side of the road for passengers. Matatus used to be usually packed to well over capacity – up to 25 people in a 14-seater vehicle. It is strongly advised not to take matatus at night, as they are known targets for robberies, in addition to the increased risks of reckless night driving. ===By train=== Passenger trains are making a comeback in Kenya with the new railway line, often referred to '''SGR''' (short for standard-gauge railway), linking the capital [[Nairobi]] with the port city of [[Mombasa]]. The line is fully operational with three trains in each direction every day, journey time is about five hours. There is also an SGR line from Nairobi to [[Naivasha]]. [[File:Nairobi SGR Train Station.jpg|thumb|Nairobi SGR Train Station]] Trains are branded as ''Madaraka Express'' and are operated by [http://krc.co.ke '''Kenya Railways''']. There is one ''Express'' train and two ''Inter-Country'', with the latter making more stops along the route. As of 2024, tickets for the full journey are Ksh 4,500 for first class and Ksh 1,500 for second. Tickets can be bought at their dedicated [https://metickets.krc.co.ke website]. While the trains operate at semi-high speed, stations are often far from the city centre. In Nairobi and Mombasa, travel time from the city centre to the station is up to one hour. The old colonial metre-gauge railway network (often referred to as '''MGR''') is being rehabilitated too. While this network is considerable slower compared to SGR (and even intercity buses!), fares are very cheap and the routes are scenic. There's a 2x weekly train between Nairobi and [[Nanyuki]] via [[Nyeri]], departing from Nairobi on Tuesday and Fridays and from Nanyuki on Wednesday and Sundays. Journey time of about six hours. the 3rd class ticket is now 400. Also, there are 1x weekly trains between Nairobi and [[Kisumu]], departs Nairobi Friday. departs Kisumu Sunday on the shores of Lake Victoria. A 3rd class ticket costs Ksh 900. Kenya Railways have stated their intent to revive the network to the border of [[Uganda]] and [[Tanzania]] too, opening the possibilities of international travel in the near future. ===By taxi=== * '''Regular taxis''' are safer than matatus, and some think they should always be used, especially at night. Always negotiate the price before the trip. You can calculate about €1/km. * '''Driving services''' have overtaken traditional taxis for tourists as they are cheaper and you can see the fare beforehand in the app. The following are the most anticipated providers: ** {{go | name=Bolt | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-01-04 | content=Includes many towns. }} ** {{go | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/nairobi/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-01-04 | content=Works in Nairobi. }} ** '''[https://little.bz/ Little]{{Dead link|date=April 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' Provide services related to food, transportation etc. * '''Tuktuk''': They run everywhere in the city centres (except Nairobi) or hotel areas on the coast. These are motorized tricycles or rickshaws like in India, cheap, comfortable and airy, fun and the best way to get around the city centre. Just stretch out your arm and one of what feels like a million tuktuks will stop. Also the best way to get to know a city, every driver will like to "take a lap". Negotiate price! Price approx. €0.5/km * '''Motorbike taxi''': There are also ''Boda-Boda'', that is, young men with their small motorbikes, mostly by the dozen waiting for customers on the coast or at intersections, hotel driveways, shopping streets, in front of bars and restaurants. An alternative to taxi for short trips and during the day, not recommended at night or over longer distances. You should be aware that this is by far the most dangerous type of transport. Avarice can easily end here in the hospital. If you are staying in Kenya for a longer period of time, it is worthwhile to have one or two permanent Boda drivers you can trust and whom you can always fall back on. Price approx. €0.25/km ===By rental car=== Most worldwide rental agencies have offices in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu, and these offer reliable cars with a full back-up network. One can also rent cheaper cars from local distributors who are mostly reliable. However it is always good to do a background check before sending in a deposit. When you hire a car, no matter the brand name, always take note of the various dents, or states of the car as it may prove contentious especially when a "refundable" deposit was involved. When it comes to renting a car for a safari, consider booking a customized vehicle driven by a local tour driver-guide, provided by a Kenya-based tour operator. The reason is that the road conditions in Kenya will pose a major challenge to anyone used to the high standards of quality roads and standards of driving in the West or parts of Asia as well. Roads, even national highways in some cases are in a state of disrepair, may have potholes, unmarked speed breakers (particularly dangerous) and a lack of road signs or directions. It is the general consensus even among Kenyans that standards of driving and road safety in Kenya are deficient and the country has a high rate of serious accidents. Renting a safari vehicle with a trained driver~guide is often not that expensive and this service is offered by companies in Kenya such as [https://www.shoortravel.com/carhire.html Shoor Car Rental]{{Dead link|date=August 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and [http://www.marketcarhire.com/car-hire-rates.html Market Hire.]{{Dead link|date=October 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} There are two types of safari vehicles: the less costly minibus (tour vans) and the 4x4 Toyota Land Cruiser models which cost more but are larger and have four wheel drive. Both vehicle types have game viewing roofs and the minibus is suitable for travel to most destinations except those that may have involve rough or muddy road travel. It is quite convenient to hire a car online and pick it up at the airport once you arrive. The minimum driving age in Kenya is 18 years and for you to hire a vehicle, you may be required to be at least 23 years and have a minimum of 2 years driving experience. Other rules to comply with are: drive on the left side of the road, talking on a hand-held phone is prohibited, seat belts are mandatory and drivers must always carry a valid driver's license. Make sure that the car you are hiring has up-to-date comprehensive and PSV insurance which are normally displayed on the top left side of the windscreen. When hiring a car for cross-border travel you might need to purchase additional insurance and carry the motor vehicle original log book. The Nairobi CBD is traffic prone and it is difficult to find parking on working hours. If you can, avoid going to the CBD on weekdays. However, roads out of the city are relatively easy to navigate and pleasant. Kenya has a lovely countryside and most of the roads linking the major towns are in good condition. Smaller roads however may be dilapidated and you might need to rent a 4X4 to get you there. A good map is essential, and if you are self driving to game parks and the like, a GPS would be very useful - sign posts are rare and you are never quite sure if you are on the correct road, leading to many wrong turnings and backtracking. Some car rental companies provide free extras like a mobile phone with a local number. Other extras that are available at a cost are additional GPS, child seats, camping equipment, rooftop tent and a driver. Most car rental companies offer cars of all sizes with Japanese models being dominant. All reservations can be made in English with some rental companies providing reservations in French, German, Chinese and Spanish. International car rental companies such as [http://www.europcar.com Europcar], [http://www.sixt.com Sixt], [http://www.budget.com Budget], Avis and Hertz offer car rental in Kenya. Local car rental companies like [http://www.hireddrive.com Hire N' Drive] & [http://www.elitecarrentalkenya.com Elite Car Rental Kenya] are usually very competitive and professional. ==See== [[File:Laika ac River Crossing (9679713785).jpg|thumb|Zebras are among animals you may see in Kenya]] In Kenya, nature is the main attraction. The cities offer little really worth seeing, apart from the lively and chaotic city life. Kenya has some of the world's best '''game reserves''' where you can go for a [[safaris|safari]], and see some of the finest [[African flora and fauna]]. The parks are famous for lions, giraffes, elephants and huge herds of zebras, wildebeests and buffaloes. It's wise to shop around for tour operators before picking one, to see what's on offer, who you vibe with, and to get a competitive price. The annual wildebeest migration (from [[Maasai Mara]] to the [[Serengeti]]) is an awesome sight and best experienced in a balloon safari. Bookings to watch the migration are best done months in advance due to the high demand and limited lodging available in the Mara. Migration is during August and September. Kenya also is a great destination for '''beach holidays''', with several located along the coastal regions and the city of [[Mombasa]], especially [[Diani Beach]]. Other coastal towns worth visiting include [[Lamu]] and [[Malindi]]. Kenya is also becoming a '''golf holiday''' destination, thanks to the many beautiful lush courses around the major urban areas including some which have hosted international Golf tournaments such as Muthaiga and Karen Golf Courses. Outside of Nairobi there is the well known Limuru Golf Club and the Great Rift Valley Golf Resort close to Lake Naivasha. Green fees range from US$15–60 per round, plus a US$5–7 caddy fee for 18 holes. The northern parts of Kenya are home to some '''spectacular tribes''' living very traditional lifestyles - you can start to encounter these remarkable societies near to and around the main road north into Ethiopia (the A2 which runs through Marsabit and into Moyale at the Ethopian border), as well as west of this in places such as Wamba, Maralal, Baragoi, Korr, Kargi, and South Horr. The '''Great Rift Valley''' area of Kenya includes inland bodies of water, which are critical lifelines for the ancestral grazing landscapes of the Maasai. The valley is dotted with a series of beautiful, sparkling '''lakes''', each offering a wide variety of wildlife experiences. Kenya has sites from the independence era and the Nairobi National Museum is a good place to learn about the country's rich heritage and recent events in history. ==Do== * '''Beaches''': Travel organizations usually offer beach holidays at '''South Coast''' or '''North Coast''', which simply means south or north of Mombasa. While the ''South Coast'' (Tiwi Beach, [[Diani Beach]], Galu Beach, Gazi Beach, [[Msambweni]] Beach, Mwazaro Beach) has the nicer beaches and more primordial nature the ''North Coast'' near [[Mombasa]] (Njali Beach, Bamburi Beach, Shandzu Beach, [[Mtwapa]] Beaches, Kikambala Beach) offers much more activities. The beaches further north (Kilifi, Watamu, [[Malindi]]) are like South Coast, primordial and tranquil, not as long and broad as Diani Beach but even more photogenic. [[File:Maasai warriors showing tourist the beautiful Maasai Mara.jpg|thumb|Maasai warriors guiding tourists in the Maasai Mara game park]] * If you want to spend some time in the urban social scene, you might consider attending music and cultural events such as Blankets and Wine, which features international and local artists performing in a picnic-like setting for families and friends looking to enjoy African talent. The event happens on the first Sunday of every month in Nairobi. * Rift Valley Festival, which incorporates a camping experience with a sample of cultural and musical tastes from around the country and internationally. * Samosa Festival is an event set up to integrate the Asian and African cultures in the country. A significant percentage of the urban population is of Asian (Indian) ancestry and has existed since before independence. Their immigration was brought on by the construction of the railway. This event features cuisine from both cultures, poetry and literature (spoken and written), music and games. * Maulid festival is a one-week event that can only be enjoyed in the Coastal region, specifically in the ageless town of Lamu, which has the majority of the population of Muslim faith. It is the one event which everyone from the region looks forward. * The three major cities have an array of nightclubs that play local and international music. Though the experience may be thrilling, it would be wise to visit in the company of a guide or a trusted local, as like any other country with a nightlife, nightclubs may attract untrustworthy party-goers and "clubbers", but this shouldn't ruin your experience as nightclubs are also great places to meet singles and new friends. * '''Be respectful to local communities'''. Carry a consent form to take and publish pictures, always ask before taking pictures. * '''Haggle, but do not over-haggle'''. ===Safaris=== '''Safari''': Watch a wildlife migration in one of the national parks. Go for a game drive in many parks and reserves found in the country. If you are on a tight schedule take a game drive in the Nairobi National Park, less than 20 minutes drive from Nairobi's central business district. Major attractions: big cats including lions and leopards, buffaloes, a variety of antelope species, baboons, and monkeys, among others. Most vacationers who come to Kenya want to combine the beach with a safari tour. Safaris are never cheap, as the entry fees are high and the camps are usually luxurious. Cheap mass tourism is also undesirable as it would endanger the animals. You shouldn't visit too many parks in a short time, otherwise too much time is wasted on transportation. Less is more here. * '''Best travel time''' for safaris: The time of the great animal migration depends on the annual rainfall and can be subject to large fluctuations. The best chances to experience the great migration are in the months of July to September. In the off-season after the rainy season (May - June) the grass is tall and the animals are sometimes more difficult to see, except for elephants and giraffes. On the other hand, nature has fresh colours and the safaris are cheaper. In the high season August–September the grass is short and the sight of animals is easier, but also more expensive. * '''Getting there''': If you want to visit the Masai Mara National Reserve, it is financially worthwhile to travel to Kenya via Nairobi to save the high costs of the flight from the coast to Masai Mara and back. Or, if you have enough time and want to keep costs down, you can start the safari tour from the coast by car to Tsavo, Amboseli, Nairobi, Naivasha, Masai Mara and then back to the coast by plane or train from Nairobi. The best combination of a beach holiday with a safari when arriving via Mombasa are the Tsavo Parks, which can be reached inexpensively by safari vehicle. * '''Clothing on safari''': Maasai Mara is cooler than Tsavo Parks and Amboseli, sometimes below 10 °C in the morning and safari vehicles are usually open. From 9AM, it gets very warm, so a T-shirt and shorts are enough. That is why the "onion look" is recommended, for example zip-off pants, T-shirt and fleece jacket and a "multifunctional scarf" (as a headband against blowing hair when the jeep is open, as a hat when it is cool in the morning, as a scarf when it is too windy in the open car or because of the air conditioning and as sun protection for the head), possibly also hat or cap and gloves for sensitive people. It is also important to have sunscreen, sunglasses, mosquito repellents and enough batteries, as the electricity in the lodges is sometimes switched off overnight. Light shoes or flip-flops (to get on the seat). Getting out of the car is only possible for a short time, if at all, and not wandering around anyway. In the evenings at camp, a fleece jacket and a jogging suit are comfortable. In Tsavo and Amboseli, short clothing plus a windbreaker, multifunctional cloth, mosquito and sun protection, sunglasses and spare batteries are sufficient. In the evening, if you want to stay seated a little longer, a jogging suit and windbreaker are sufficient. ====Booked safaris==== * There are a number of reputable travel agencies on the coast or in Nairobi who organize safaris and have great experience. * There are also illegal providers who work without a license and are cheaper. For your own safety you should give preference to the legal ones. For personal safety, the company should properly maintain and insure its vehicles and have an operating license. Good companies usually have their own office and the vehicles have a company logo that clearly identifies the minibuses and off-road vehicles as company vehicles. For such safari operators, scams are much more difficult because they are easy to track. Company signs on the vehicles should be firmly mounted and not be interchangeable with a handle for the next car, as illegal providers like to do. * If you want to book via the Internet with the local safari providers, e.g. at Diani Beach (which is advisable because of the good local knowledge), you should inquire about several providers, because each company either works with different hotels or receives different conditions at the respective hotel . The prices depend heavily on the time of year, the hotel and the means of transport to the game drive. Camps in the park are more expensive than those outside. A lot of time is lost for the arrival and departure, and there are fewer opportunities to see animals on the game drive. Safaris in which you are accommodated in a minivan with 6 others are cheaper than if you are traveling with a few in an off-road vehicle. Individual trips are significantly better than group trips in a narrow minivan. During animal migration, prices are at the highest level. For good offers, it is necessary to choose the travel time, the number of people, the accommodation in the respective park, the number of days you want to stay in the respective park and the type of transport jeep or minivan. ====Safaris on your own==== Safaris are traditionally always expensive. Anyone who is not in good financial shape or is not a fan of organized tours will consider going on a safari on their own. There are a few things to consider. Basically, you should only consider this if you have experience in Africa, can cope with the chaotic traffic and the often ailing technology of the rental vehicles. Experience with the behaviour of the very dangerous large game animals is also essential. * '''Transport and rental cars''': You should start from Nairobi if you can. The distances to the parks are shorter than from Mombasa. It is easy to drive north especially and you save yourself the dangerous Mombasa – Nairobi Highway. In addition, the range of reasonably suitable rental vehicles in Nairobi is better than on the coast. The top rule on the Mombasa Highway is: Give in and think along. If necessary, there are run-off areas that you can use if someone overtakes without paying attention to oncoming traffic. But it should be clear that it is quite exhausting for the driver. You have to like driving a car and see it as an adventure. And: something always breaks on the car on a safari. You always get help, but you have to have the nerve to deal with that. You are allowed to drive yourself in all national parks! Likewise in the Mara Reserve, not in some Mara Conservancies. * '''Orientation''': Google Maps works generally quite good in cities and on country roads. It's almost useless in the parks themselves. * '''Animal sightings''': As a self-drive, it will take significantly longer to find the animals. You have to pay the considerable fees per day for the park also as a self-driver. If you want to see a lot in a short period of time, you should hire a local guide who is knowledgeable about the area and who is often even better than a driver from the coast. * '''Guides''': For the Tsavo Parks, Nakuru and Amboseli you don't need a guide, in the Samburu Park you might need a local guide and in the Masai Mara it is essential. You ask about this directly when booking the accommodation. Good guides don't just stand at the park entrances. * '''Safari Card''': You have to organize entry to the park. It's not difficult, but you need some information. You can't just go there, as most gates have to be paid in advance or only via [https://www.safaricom.co.ke/personal/m-pesa Mpesa]. * '''Camping''': Almost all camps are not fenced and some live monkeys and baboons who like to help themselves and have no respect for whites. Most of the campsites there are need to be pre-booked and prepaid. There is almost no infrastructure. You should have the right people with you when camping. The wrong treatment of wild animals can quickly result in disaster. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Kenyan shilling | currencyCode=Ksh&nbsp; | date=January 2026 | USD=130 | EUR=150 | GBP=175 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/kes-kenyan-shilling XE.com] }} The currency is the '''Kenyan shilling''', denoted "'''Ksh'''" or by "'''/-'''" following the number (ISO code: '''KES'''). It can be divided into 100 cents, though the smallest denomination in circulation is the 1 shilling coin. Coins in Kenya come in denominations of 1-, 5-, 10 and 20 shillings. Two series of coins are in circulation, one featuring an image of President Mzee Jomo Kenyatta and the current issue featuring Africa's recognisable animals. Banknotes in Kenya come in denominations of 50-, 100-, 200-, 500 and 1,000 shillings. Next to cash, Mpesa (phone transactions) is the most popular payment method and much more common than debit or credit cards. Cash can be topped up or withdrawn in various shops. *ATM networks in Kenya with no withdrawal fee (January 2024): Ecobank, Co-operative Bank, NCBA, GT Bank, Sidian Bank, DTB, I&M, National Bank. *ATM networks in Kenya with withdrawal fees of Ksh 400–700: Standard Chartered, ABSA, Stanbic, Equity, Bank of Africa, KCB, Family bank. *ATMs accept Mastercard, visa card, American Express, JCB, Diners Club, Union Pay and Discover cards. ===Shopping=== Kenya is famous for many handicrafts, which are often the signature of a particular tribe or region. Look for Kisii stone (soap stone) carvings, Maasai jewellery, Mkonde wood carvings, Lamu chairs and batiks. The largest selection of handicrafts can probably be found at the Maasai Market which rotates and can be found at different locations within Nairobi. For example, on Sundays, they are located at Yaya Centre near Hurlingham, and on Saturdays, they can be found at the central business district near the law courts parking space. On Fridays, they are at the Village Market in Gigiri, near the UN headquarters. Gigiri, like Yaya Centre, is a plush suburb, so vendors price their goods accordingly. There is also a fine selection of stores selling craft goods in Mombasa, where the atmosphere is somewhat more relaxed. However, the best prices can be found by buying directly from the artisans in their villages in the countryside. Apart from the typical souvenirs such as wood carvings, it may be a good idea to buy one of the large books with photos of wildlife, nature, or culture. Do listen to and buy some local Kenyan music. Reggae is a very popular genre of music here. Do note that merchants are open to bargaining. They will most often raise the price significantly for foreigners, so do not be afraid to haggle. ==Eat== The cuisine of Kenya is influenced by the country's geography, climate, and diverse cultural heritage. Here are some key features of Kenyan cuisine: * ''Staple foods'': Ugali, a maize-based porridge, is the most common staple food in Kenya. It is often served with stews or sauces made from meat, vegetables, or beans. Other popular staples include rice, chapati (a type of flatbread), and sukuma wiki (a leafy green vegetable). * ''Meat dishes'': Beef, chicken, and goat are the most commonly consumed meats in Kenya. Popular meat dishes include nyama choma (grilled meat), samosas (deep-fried pastry filled with meat or vegetables), and biryani (a spiced rice dish with meat or vegetables). * ''Seafood'': Kenya's long coastline means that seafood is also an important part of the cuisine. Popular seafood dishes include grilled fish, prawn curry, and seafood stew. * ''Vegetables'': Kenya's fertile soil means that vegetables are plentiful and varied. Common vegetables used in Kenyan cuisine include kale, cabbage, spinach, tomatoes, and onions. * ''Spices'': Kenyan cuisine is known for its use of spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and turmeric. These spices are often used to flavor meat dishes and stews. * ''Tea and coffee'': Kenya is a major producer of tea and coffee, and both beverages are an important part of Kenyan culture. Kenyan tea is typically strong and sweet, while Kenyan coffee is known for its rich, fruity flavor. <gallery> Ugali with beef and sauce.JPG|Ugali served with beef and sauce Menu of a typical Kenyan restaurant.jpg|Menu of a typical Kenyan restaurant </gallery> [[File:Tusker.JPG|thumb|Drinking Tusker]] ==Drink== Kenya has several local beer brands, the most popular being Tusker. Imported beers are generally available in higher-end establishments. Imported and local wines and spirits are widely available, though it is advisable to avoid local brews such as "changaa" and "busaa", which are often illegal, unhygienically brewed, and whose consumption has led to deaths on many occasions. Soft drinks, especially from Coca-Cola, are widely available, and the strong, locally produced Stoney "Tangawizi" ginger ale is fantastic. Most bars and small shops will expect you to leave behind your glass bottles so they can return them to their distributors. ==Sleep== [[File:WaterLovers Beach Resort.jpg|thumb|View from a resort at the Indian Ocean]] Nairobi has a wide variety of tourist '''hotels''', from backpackers hostels to five-star establishments such as the Norfolk Hotel. As long as you don't mind basic accommodations, there is no need to spend more than US$100 per night on a hotel or [[hostel]]. In addition, the international Intercontinental and Hilton chains are also represented as well as a number of very highly regarded local chains (Serena and Sarova Hotels). Small boarding and lodging establishments are ubiquitous in central urban areas for low cost, although these are rarely safe as they are located in high crime areas. [[File:Room in Kiritiri guest house, Kiritiri, Kenya.jpg|thumb|Simple room in guest house]] '''Guest houses''' often offer the best value for ''budget minded travellers''. In small towns or villages, lodging can be found for less than Ksh 1,000. The most simple guest houses have shared bathrooms and start at as little as Ksh 500/night--though often of questionable cleanliness and not entirely bug-free. Private, 'self-contained' rooms go for Ksh 500-1000 and often can be rented at bars or clubs (expect a noisy night). '''Homestays''' are increasingly gaining popularity. Part of the reason is that one can experience Kenyan culture in a deeper and more meaningful way. Most homes charge about US$20 per night inclusive of meals. Some may include laundry on that price. People staying '''longer-term''' may rent accommodation; prices range from estate-agent 'international style' rentals US$150 per week, to privately arranged furnished apartments, US$50–100 pw, to 'local' style accommodation, usually unfurnished, in a price range from Ksh 5,000-7,000 per month with windows, water, electricity, down to Ksh 500 per month with no windows, no electricity, loud neighbours, mosquitoes, and shared access to a tap. To arrange privately rented accommodation, you'll need to ask around – cab drivers, shopkeepers, market traders, could all save you the estate agents' fees. ==Learn== There are many colleges offering secretarial and computer courses in the CBDs of Nairobi and Mombasa. There are also many universities, both public and private, and some participate in student exchange programs with international universities. ==Work== A high unemployment rate means work permits are required. These can be difficult to obtain unless you have specialized skills that are lacking in the workforce. You are best off being appointed abroad, as local employment opportunities are low-paying and few. There are many international expatriates who work for non-profit agencies such as the UN and other affiliated agencies. Their pay is very high in relation to local living standards, and as a result their employees can afford to live in luxury. There are numerous opportunities for volunteering in Kenya, whatever skills you have. Websites such as Idealist carry details of many of these placements, which could be centred on education, conservation, community development, or a number of similar areas. Kenya's English-speaking history and relative stability make it extremely well suited for this kind of work. In most cases, volunteering can be undertaken with a standard tourist visa, although it is worth checking with your host organization before travelling as the authorities may not always take this view. If you have specialised skills, there are a number of more focused volunteering programs available. These range from opportunities for medical and engineering placements (for example, with MSF or VSO), to short sabbaticals for people with generic business experience, spent mentoring local businesses, with Skills Venture. ==Stay safe== {{Warningbox|Due to risks of kidnapping, cross-border violence, and banditry, travelling within {{convert|110|km|mi}} of the borders between Kenya and [[Somalia]] is not safe. |au=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/africa/kenya |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/kenya |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/kenya |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/kenya |lastedit=2025-08-28 }} Although Kenya is generally safe, it has had bouts of jihadist activities and occasional post-election violence. Homosexuality is against the law but is practised secretly. Overt displays of homosexuality (especially male to male relationships) may, at times, result in open hostility. Although violent reactions are quite uncommon, it is best to be discreet if engaging in any such activities with travel mates or locals. However, it is common to see people of the same gender hold hands while engaged in conversation. A new law, with penalties of 10 years of jail for many acts of homosexuality or discussing homosexuality is proposed in the spring of 2023, similar to ones in Ghana and Uganda. Stay alert when walking or driving through [[Nairobi]]. You should always be careful to be aware of your surroundings and, if possible, ensure that you have a guide with you. Even daylight muggings on crowded streets are not uncommon. Infrequently, violent and sometimes fatal criminal attacks, including armed carjackings and home invasions/burglaries can occur at any time and in any location, particularly in Nairobi. Particularly avoid walking after dark. Take a taxi if you can afford it, or a bus if you cannot, but care should be taken as most buses, even modern ones, tend to be overcrowded and can pose dangers from pickpocketing. Avoid ostentatious displays of wealth. Objects most tempting to thieves are cameras, phones and electronics. The bus from the airport to downtown Nairobi is a notorious target for pickpockets. Do not ask for prices in English when buying anything, especially from hawkers and bodabodas. Chances are you will pay at least twice normal prices, no matter how good you are at haggling. Use the little Swahili you know so as not to overpay. If you are unlucky and get mugged, a good tactic is to wave your arms and start screaming at the would-be mugger. Confrontations with armed robbers, however, should be avoided – in this instance, remember that your possessions are far less important than your life. Most criminals in Nairobi are more interested in a quick grab and dash than they are in a prolonged encounter. Since robbery is frequently punished by lengthy prison terms or even death, most muggers can be dissuaded by a good show of force. Like in any other city, it is perfectly possible to see, and enjoy, much of Nairobi without incident if you take sensible precautions. The north of the country has a reputation for lawlessness, becoming more dangerous the closer you get to the South Sudanese, Ethiopian and Somali borders. Armed robberies and abductions by ''shiftas'' (bandits) on the roads in these areas are frequent. Avoid travelling to this part of the country if possible, and take special precautions if travelling by road. Armed convoys are normal for this part of the country. Visitors to Lake Turkana (indicated on the map as Lake Rudolf) in the northwest and Lamu in the northern end of the coast should travel there by air. Lodwar, Lokichokio ('Loki') and Moyale are towns best avoided by the casual traveller, unless you have business with the humanitarian organizations based there. In other information, Bringing single-use plastic bags into the country is strictly illegal. Offenders can face severe fines or imprisonment. ==Stay healthy== Protect yourself from '''[[mosquitoes]]''', as they carry numerous diseases such as [[dengue fever]], [[malaria]] and [[yellow fever]]. Get expert advice on malaria preventatives. Guard against mosquito bites. Wear long sleeves and long trousers and apply an effective insect repellent. If arriving from or travelling to other African countries, having a [[yellow fever]] vaccination certificate is typically mandatory. The vaccine can be administered at an affordable price at most reliable Nairobi clinics and hospitals. '''[[Malaria]]''' medications are recommended if you are travelling to rural areas (Nairobi is not within the malaria zone). The prophylactics most commonly used in this region are doxycycline (an antibiotic) and malarone (a combination of atovaquone and proguanil, also sold locally as malanil). Chloroquine is not as useful because of the high incidence of resistance and Mefloquine, also known as lariam, mefliam, and mephaquin, is associated with various side effects, including a high incidence of mood disturbances and a lower risk of severe neurological disturbance. Consult your physician and government health advisories for current advice. If you get flu-like symptoms, including fever, joint aches and vomiting, consult a doctor immediately. If no doctor is available, take a treatment dose of an appropriate anti-malarial and go immediately to a hospital. While the public hospitals are slightly cheaper, long waits and poor conditions and care at these facilities may make it worthwhile to go to a private clinic. Costs will vary, but a typical trip to the hospital for malaria testing, doctor's consultation, and medication will cost US$12-30 depending on the clinic. As malaria can become serious, a trip to the hospital is recommended at the first symptoms of malaria. If you get such symptoms within twelve months of returning home, seek a doctor's advice very quickly and immediately tell them where you have been in the last year. Delayed treatment, even by just a few hours, can lead to permanent brain and liver damage or death. Do not have unprotected sex as '''HIV/AIDS''' and other sexually transmitted diseases are a risk. The country's Adult HIV Prevalence rate (15th in the world) is over '''6.1%''' or '''1 in 16''' adults. Voluntary Testing and Counselling (VCT) clinics offer free testing and counselling for HIV/AIDS. Cholera is another danger. When in affected areas, see a doctor immediately and drink plenty of water. All '''[[water]]''' should be treated, either by boiling or through purifying tablets or filters. This includes Nairobi as well as rural areas. Typhoid fever is a risk and, like malaria prophylactics, the vaccination is not 100% effective. It is advisable to buy bottled water for drinking. It is available countrywide. All fruits and vegetables should be thoroughly washed. While eating from the roadside kiosks is part of the cultural experience that one should not miss, such places do not always have the highest sanitary conditions and stomach illnesses can result. ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} Although Kenya is predominantly Christian and somewhat liberal, there are areas with major Muslim influence, such at the Coastal regions, where it is considered indecent to wear short dresses. This is true in rural Christian areas as well. The locals, however, are extremely friendly. Beachwear is acceptable on the beach but not while strolling around town. Nudism and topless bathing are prohibited in Kenya. Even though some hotels allow topless or nude sunbathing, these are in restricted areas and not in public. Kissing or heavy petting is frowned upon in public, even though Kenyan youth engage in both liberally in night clubs. [[File:Rules kenya.jpg|thumb|Homosexuality is against the law]] Permission is required in order to take pictures of people, as a matter of etiquette. Photos of military and public facilities such as police stations, banks, ferries, etc. are typically prohibited. If you are invited to a Kenyan home, it is proper to bring a small gift according to the occasion. If you are a white man and go out with Kenyans, you are expected to pay the bills. If you invite a Kenyan out to a pub or restaurant, you are also expected to pay their transport costs, especially if you are a man inviting a woman. It is disrespectful to reject food offered to you. Always accept tea and chapati, or mandazi, which is very commonly offered to visitors. The legacy of '''British colonial rule''' in Kenya is a sensitive subject, with the violent suppression of the 1950-62 '''Mau Mau uprising''' by the British government being a particularly sore spot among Kenyans. Tread carefully when discussing this with locals, and try to do more listening than talking. That being said, most Kenyans bear no animosity against regular British tourists, and you are unlikely to run into any problems so long as you are respectful and avoid political debates. ==Connect== ===Internet=== Internet cafés are common throughout Kenya and usually offer decent link quality. Expect prices of Ksh 0.50-1.00 per minute. Most cyber cafes now charge Ksh 1 per minute (2020). ====Mobile providers==== '''Safaricom, Airtel, Telkom''': After purchasing a starter SIM card you may access the net instantly, if you have an Internet-capable handset or a modem. However, when using your account balance to pay for access, the prices are steep. It is much cheaper to purchase a data bundle, and the more expensive ones offer much better price/limit ratio. For example, in 2023, a 5GB data bundle good for one month costs Ksh 500 from Airtel, while a 5GB from Safaricom costs Ksh 1,000. A SIM card costs between Ksh 50-100. In 2021, a sim card from '''Telkom''' was available for free from any of the Telkom promoters on the streets. A good data package from the same provider goes by the name of "Mambo" (Ksh 100 for 3GB, or Ksh 200 for 7.5 GB, valid for 30 days). Be aware that the reliability of Telkom is often poor and network coverage in rural areas non-existent. You will be required to provide valid identification as it is required by law that all SIM cards be registered. You may purchase the bundles by charging your account with scratch top-up cards and then dialing *100# or *544# (Safaricom and Airtel), *124# (Telkom). Once the data bundle is finished, continuing Internet access will consume your account balance (this behavior can be switched off for all providers). ===Wi-Fi hotspots=== As of 2020, there's been an emergence in Wi-Fi hostspots in Kenya. These include Surf WiFi by Facebook and Moja WiFi that offer cheap internet connection in public places. Moja WiFi uses points that could be redeemed to access internet. A new user is awarded 50 points on registering on the network. A user gains points by watching video ads, one ad is equivalent to one point. For 5 points a user gets 24 hours of internet access. Surf WiFi offers cheap internet access. A new user is awarded free 1GB of internet bundle on registration. After that the user receives free 100MB daily by watching a video ad. When a person invites a new user using a referral link both receive 1GB of internet bundle upon registration of the new user. It also offers an app that has an inbuilt map that shows surf WiFi hostspots in the country and recharge shops to buy new bundles. {{geo|0.1|38|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|East_Africa}} {{usablecountry}} 7aqw28u298shu31w8mvgr0j920zk8pp 5288999 5288998 2026-06-07T06:04:08Z SHB2000 2248002 Reverted edits by [[Special:Contributions/~2026-33745-58|~2026-33745-58]] ([[User talk:~2026-33745-58|talk]]) to last version by [[User:DaGizza|DaGizza]] 5287841 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Giraffes in Maasai Mara, Kenya.jpg|caption=Maasai Mara National Reserve}} '''Kenya''' in [[East Africa]] is a pearl in sub-Saharan Africa. From the scenic sandy beaches at the coast, to the [[Nairobi National Park]], to the majestic [[Rift Valley]], the bird life in Lake Naivasha, the hot boiling springs of Lake Baringo, [[Lake Turkana]] and Lake Victoria, Kenya is a very beautiful country with lots of wildlife and scenic features, and is one of the major economic hubs in [[Africa]]. Fondly referred to as the "Jewel of Africa", Kenya is a dream destination for its Swahili heritage and the home of humankind and Safari industry. ==Regions== Kenya is divided into several different regions, each with its own unique characteristics and differences in terms of culture, landscape, climate, and economy: {{Regionlist | regionmap=Kenya Regions map.png | regionmaptext=Kenya regions | regionmapsize=300px | region1name=[[Northern Rift Valley]] | region1color=#A9C496 | region1items= | region1description=Dominated by massive Lake Turkana, the rift is home to a wide range of Kenya's peoples including nomadic herding peoples. | region2name=[[Southern Rift Valley]] | region2color=#71B37B | region2items= | region2description=This region is home to 10 national parks. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, including lakes, mountains, and hot springs. | region3name=[[Coastal Kenya]] | region3color=#6D926D | region3items= | region3description=Kenya's Indian Ocean coastline and is known for its beautiful beaches, Swahili culture, and historical landmarks. | region4name=[[Eastern Kenya]] | region4color=#B5AB81 | region4items= | region4description=The eastern part of Kenya and is known for its arid and semi-arid landscapes, wildlife, and diverse cultures. | region5name=[[Western Kenya]] | region5color=#578E86 | region5items= | region5description=The western part of Kenya is known for its lush green forests, scenic hills, and diverse cultures. The Nyanza Region bordering Lake Victoria offers beautiful beaches, fishing communities, and diverse cultural practices. }} ==Cities and major towns== <!-- THIS LIST IS LIMITED TO 9 CITIES. ANY CHANGES MUST BE DISCUSSED ON THE TALK PAGE FIRST. CHANGES WITHOUT DISCUSSION/APPROVAL WILL BE REVERTED. SEE THE DISCUSSION AT en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Talk:Africa#Cities and Other Destinations --> Kenya has 3 major cities: * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nairobi]]|wikidata=Q3870}} — the cosmopolitan capital city and economic centre of Kenya and most vibrant in the East African region. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mombasa]]|wikidata=Q225641}} — historic port on the Indian Ocean seafront and probably Africa's longest continuously settled town. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kisumu]]|wikidata=Q214485}} — the major city to the west, on the shore of Lake Victoria. Major towns based on size and popularity as tourist destination include: * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lamu]]|wikidata=Q272799}} — main town of the Lamu Archipelago, renowned internationally for its annual cultural festival. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lodwar]]|wikidata=Q995707}} — in the north on the main route to South Sudan with access to Lake Turkana * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Malindi]]|wikidata=Q271411}} — the landing point of Vasco Da Gama in Kenya with a large Italian population * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Meru]]|wikidata=Q934149}} — town near the base of Mount Kenya. It is the crossroads for travel to Nairobi * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nakuru]]|wikidata=Q239421}} — near lake Nakuru National Park and an extinct volcano (Menengai) * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mtwapa]]|wikidata=Q5978252}} - the small town near Mombasa has become a preferred place of residence for European pensioners and is a centre of night life <!-- THIS LIST IS LIMITED TO 9 CITIES. ANY CHANGES MUST BE DISCUSSED ON THE TALK PAGE FIRST. CHANGES WITHOUT DISCUSSION/APPROVAL WILL BE REVERTED. SEE THE DISCUSSION AT en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Talk:Africa#Cities and Other Destinations --> ==National parks== [[File:Mt Kenya landscape.jpg|thumb|Mount Kenya landscape]] <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items.--> '''North of Nairobi:''' These parks, although very interesting and worth visiting, with fewer visitors than the southern parks. *{{marker|name=[[Kakamega Rainforest]]|wikidata=Q1397614}} - last primeval rainforest in the country and home to various monkeys and hundreds of bird species *{{marker|name=[[Aberdare National Park]]|wikidata=Q319356}} — a cool and cloudy national park with lots of large game, and over 250 species of bird recorded *{{marker|name=[[Lake Nakuru National Park]]|wikidata=Q313071}} — a stunning 400 species of bird have been recorded here including the largest flocks of flamingos anywhere on earth *{{marker|name=[[Mount Kenya|Mount Kenya National Park]]|wikidata=Q172070}} — challenging trekking on high peaks '''South of Nairobi:''' The southern parks are the most visited, especially by those who divide their holidays between a safari and time on the beach. *{{marker|name=[[Maasai Mara National Reserve]]|wikidata=Q207724}} — probably the most popular reserve in Kenya due to the high concentration of big cats *{{marker|name=[[Nairobi National Park]]|wikidata=Q739993}} — virtually ''in'' Nairobi and a great option to see large game for those on a tight schedule *{{marker|name=[[Tsavo East National Park]]|wikidata=Q1368818}} — major game park for short safari trips from the coast *{{marker|name=[[Tsavo West National Park]]|wikidata=Q1602738}} — no. 2 game park for short safari trips from the coast *{{marker|name=[[Amboseli National Park]]|wikidata=Q458423}} — a swampy lowland Maasai park that is one of the best places anywhere in Africa to view large mammals, especially elephants <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items.--> See also [[Kenyan national parks]]. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=Kenya in its region (de-facto).svg}} [[File:Nairobi center from KCC - panoramio.jpg|thumb|Nairobi skyline]] Kenya is one of Africa's most visited countries by tourists, and rightfully so - it boasts a diversity of attractions and a well-developed hospitality and tourism sector that most of its neighbors envy. The relative ease of travel, the abundance of tour operators, pleasant year-round climate, natural sights and friendly people all contribute to its relative popularity by African standards. Although made up of many diverse ethnic groups and tribes, Kenyans have a strong sense of national pride. This may be due in part to their unity in the struggle for ''Uhuru'' (Kiswahili: "freedom") – independence from British colonial rule, achieved in 1963. While Kenyans can spot ethnic differences among themselves quite easily, to most foreigners these will not be distinguishable. Outsiders on the whole tend to find Kenyans to be relaxed, hospitable, and joyous. Hostility towards foreigners is uncommon; if anything, some visitors may be uncomfortable with the timidity that comes with a perceived dependence on tourist dollars. [[Lake Turkana]] and the area around is also known as the cradle of mankind as many prehistoric fossils have been discovered. Hominid fossils of significant scientific interest have been found in Rift Valley areas such as Olorgesaille, and it is often believed that this area of Africa is where the human species originated from (although recent discoveries in Ethiopia contest that theory). Economically, the Kenyan story is one of two steps forward, one step back, and so on. The country is one of the more developed in East Africa, and the tourism sector has made it easy for visitors to ignore the prevalence of poverty with all-in luxury safari packages – or commoditize it into a quick and questionable slum tour. The success story of the local startup scene contrasts with the persistent struggles of the underclass and pervasive corruption. In urban Nairobi and Mombasa, chic hotels, golf courses and shopping malls coexist alongside anarchic shantytowns. Rural economies in Kenya are still predominantly agricultural, but with real progress in the 21st century. All this offers an opportunity for travellers of all budgets to mix and match experiences. For a general overview read the Wikivoyage article on [[travel in developing countries]]. ===Climate=== Kenya experiences a wide range of tropical climates. It is hot and humid at the coast, temperate inland, and very dry in the north and northeast. It receives a great deal of sunshine all year round and summer clothes are worn throughout the year. However, it is usually cool at night and early in the morning. Nairobi is at high altitude and can be quite cold, even during the day, between June and August. The long rain season is from April to June, and the short rain season October to December. Rain is sometimes heavy and often falls in the afternoons and evenings. The hottest period is February to March, and the coldest July to August. Game viewing is best in the dry seasons, which are from mid-June to October, and from late-December to mid-March. The annual animal migration – especially migration of the wildebeest – occurs between June and September, with millions of animals taking part. It has been a popular event for film-makers to capture. ===History=== Kenya has been inhabited by people since the beginnings of humanity's existence as a species. [[File:Fort Jesus.JPG|thumb|The Santo Mathias bastion and the main entrance to Fort Jesus, Mombasa]] Arab traders began frequenting the coast of Kenya around the 1st century. Kenya's proximity to the Arabian peninsula invited colonisation, and Arab and Persian settlements spread along the coast in the 8th century. Throughout the centuries, Kenya has played host to many different merchants and explorers (Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, et al.) Coastal Kenya formed part of the '''Swahili Coast''', which comprised of numerous wealthy city-states that engaged in trade across the Indian Ocean and Sahara Desert, one of the most prominent being the city of [[Mombasa]]. Kenya became part of the [[British Empire]] in the late 19th century. In the 1950s, a brutal war took place between independence fighters called the Mau Mau and the British, with horrendous abuses of human rights on both sides. Kenyan nationalist Jomo Kenyatta was arrested in 1952 and with little evidence, tried and imprisoned for supposed management of the Mau Mau Society, eventually being detained for almost 9 years. Considered a national hero, he led the country after it declared independence on 12 December 1963. Through popularity, moderation and shrewd power politics, the Founding Father turned the country into a de facto dictatorship (whether benevolent or malevolent depends on who you talk to). When President Kenyatta died in 1978, Daniel arap Moi became president and, for better or worse, ruled as a dictator for over two decades. Moi did not hesitate to rough up his political opponents, and a key administrative building in Nairobi, Nyayo House, became infamous for the rumoured torture that occurred in its basement. However, some Kenyans do look back at this time more fondly as a period of stability. Following a wave of popular protests, stepped down more or less voluntarily in 2002 to make way for freely contested elections. Those elections were won by Mwai Kibaki, who stayed in office until 2013. Despite genuine economic progress, Kibaki's turn in office was marred by a sense that Kibaki's Gikuyu ethnic group, the country's largest, was consolidating power. This ultimately led to a widespread outbreak of violence in 2007, when his opponent Raila Odinga alleged Kibaki stuffed the ballot boxes to win election. Over 1000 died in the ensuing clashes. Kibaki retained power amidst evidence of tampering on both sides, and with the pre-election polls indicating a razor-thin election, it's impossible to know who the real victor should have been. Relations with Kenya's neighbours are generally stable and friendly – except for [[Somalia]], whose disintegration has prompted security concerns in Kenya. Kenya participates in international military missions attempting to defeat fundamentalist group al-Shabab; as a result, al-Shabab has launched several high-profile terrorist attacks in various locations around the country. Kenyans are therefore sometimes mistrustful or hostile towards Somalis, although there are many Kenyans of Somali heritage throughout the country and many others are refugees who fled the country's civil war. Kenya's relations with other neighbors are generally much smoother, and Kenya is a member of the East African Community (along with [[Burundi]], [[Rwanda]], [[South Sudan]], [[Tanzania]], and [[Uganda]]) which aims to foster cooperation within the region. === Geography === Bisected by the equator, Kenya features a highly diverse geography ranging from tropical Indian Ocean beaches and mangrove swamps to central highlands and arid northern deserts. The central region consists of high-altitude terrain (1,500–3,000 m), offering a temperate climate and fertile agricultural land, divided by the Great Rift Valley. A 402-km coastline bordering the Indian Ocean in the southeast, characterized by sandy beaches, coral reefs, and tropical mangrove swamps. The north and northeast are predominantly arid and semi-arid deserts, comprising roughly 80% of the country's land area. [[Mount Kenya]], Africa’s second-highest mountain at {{m|5,199}}, provides glaciers and water sources for surrounding areas. Major water bodies include Lake Victoria to the west (Africa's largest lake) and the Tana River, flowing into the Indian Ocean. ===People and culture=== Kenya has a diverse population that comprises 47 ethnic communities with a combination of 67% '''Bantus''' (Kikuyu, Swahili, Kamba, Luhya, Meru, Abagusii) and 30% '''Nilotes''' (Maasai, Luo, Samburu, Turkana and Kalenjin). An important non-indigenous ethnic group are the '''Indians''', who were largely brought over by the British as indentured servants during the colonial period and settled around major cities, and are predominantly business people. There is also a small but prominent white community that dates back to the colonial era, mostly of British descent. Notable peoples include the Swahili on the coast, pastoralist communities in the north, farmers in central and western and fishermen around the Lake Victoria basin. The Maasai culture is well known to tourists, despite their being a minor percentage of the Kenyan population. They are renowned for their elaborate upper body adornment and jewellery. ==== Swahili culture ==== Swahili culture is a blend of various influences from the East African coast, including African, Arab, and Indian cultures. It is predominantly found in Kenya, Tanzania, and parts of Uganda, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Here are some of the key aspects of Swahili culture: * Language – Swahili is the most widely spoken language in East Africa, and is a key marker of Swahili culture. It is a Bantu language with significant Arabic, Persian, and Indian loanwords. * Religion – Swahili culture has a strong Islamic influence, with many Swahili people being Muslims. However, there is also a significant Christian population. * Food – Swahili cuisine is a fusion of African, Arab, and Indian influences, with dishes such as pilau (spiced rice), biryani, samosas, and chapati being popular. Coconut milk and spices such as cardamom, cumin, and cinnamon are often used to flavour dishes. * Music and dance – Swahili music is diverse and includes taarab, a form of music that originated in Zanzibar and blends African, Arab, and Indian styles. Traditional Swahili dances include the chakacha, a sensual dance performed by women, and the ngoma, a high-energy dance performed by both men and women. * Art and architecture – Swahili art includes intricately carved wooden doors and furniture, colourful textiles, and woven baskets. Swahili architecture is known for its ornate designs and the use of coral stone and lime mortar in building structures. * Traditional dress – Swahili traditional dress includes the kanga, a colorful piece of cloth worn by women, and the kanzu, a long tunic worn by men. * Hospitality and community – Swahili culture places a strong emphasis on hospitality and community, with extended families and neighbors often playing a key role in daily life. Social gatherings such as weddings, funerals, and religious celebrations are important events that bring people together. ==== Maasai culture ==== Maasai culture is a distinctive and traditional culture of semi-nomadic people who live in parts of Kenya and Tanzania. Here are some of the key aspects of Maasai culture: * Language – The Maasai people speak Maa, a Nilotic language. * Dress – The traditional dress of the Maasai people includes brightly coloured shukas (cloths) and beaded jewellery. Men typically wear a red shuka while women wear more colourful shukas. The Maasai are known for their distinctive style of beadwork, which is used to make intricate jewelry, belts, and other items. * Livelihood – The Maasai people are primarily pastoralists, who rely on their cattle for food, milk, and income. They are known for their ability to live harmoniously with wildlife and have a deep respect for nature. * Social organization – The Maasai are organized into age-sets, which are groups of people who are born within a specific time period. These age-sets play an important role in Maasai social and political life, and each age-set has its own duties and responsibilities. * Religion and beliefs – The Maasai have a monotheistic religion that revolves around a single god named Enkai or Engai. They also have a strong belief in spirits and the power of diviners and medicine men. * Initiation – Initiation is an important rite of passage for Maasai boys and girls. Boys undergo a circumcision ceremony and then spend several years in warrior training, while girls undergo female genital mutilation and are then considered ready for marriage. * Music and dance – Maasai music and dance is an important part of their culture, and is often performed at social gatherings and ceremonies. Maasai music is characterized by high-pitched chanting and vocal harmonies, accompanied by percussion instruments such as drums and rattles. Despite the challenges faced by Maasai people in adapting to modernization and globalization, they have managed to maintain their distinctive cultural identity and way of life. ===Economy=== Kenya is a developing country, with an emerging market economy mostly from its sources of transport infrastructure. Its major agricultural exports are coffee, tea, roses and vegetables. In recent times, Kenya has generated its electricity on renewable resources, mainly geothermal energy. ===Flora and fauna=== Kenya is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, thanks to its varied geography and climate. Here are some of the notable examples of flora and fauna found in Kenya: '''Flora''': * ''Acacia trees'': These trees are a common sight in Kenya's savannahs and are an important food source for giraffes, elephants, and other herbivores. * ''Baobab trees'': These iconic trees can be found throughout Kenya and are known for their distinctive shape and large size. * ''Mount Kenya Afro-alpine zone'': This high-altitude region is home to a variety of unique plant species, including giant lobelias and groundsel trees. * ''Mangrove forests'': These coastal forests provide important habitat for a variety of marine life, including crabs, fish, and birds. '''Fauna''': * ''The Big Five'': Kenya is known for its large mammals, which include elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards, and buffalo. These animals are considered the "Big Five" and are a major draw for tourists. * ''Wildebeest migration'': Each year, millions of wildebeest migrate across the Serengeti plains, crossing into Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve. * ''Endangered species'': Kenya is home to a number of endangered species, including the Grevy's zebra, the black rhino, and the African wild dog. * ''Birdlife'': Kenya is a paradise for bird lovers, with over 1,000 bird species found in the country. Notable species include flamingos, ostriches, and the African fish eagle. ===Holidays=== * '''New Year's Day''' (January 1) * '''Easter''' (Good Friday and Easter Monday) * '''Labour Day''' (May 1) * '''Madaraka Day''' (June 1) * '''Eid al-Fitr''' (variable) Islamic religious observances * '''Mashujaa Day''' (October 20) * '''Jamhuri Day''' (December 12) * '''Christmas''' (December 25) * '''Boxing Day''' (December 26) ===Tourist information === * [https://www.magicalkenya.com Magical Kenya] website ==Talk== {{see also|Swahili phrasebook}} '''English''' and '''[[Swahili phrasebook|Swahili]]''' are the two official languages. As a diverse country with over 40 ethnic groups and 60 languages between them, most Kenyans are multilingual, speaking their native ethnic language along with Swahili, which is the preferred language for interethnic communication. Most people, particularly in urban areas, also have a working knowledge of English, though this will vary depending on their level of education. Efforts to communicate in Swahili are generally greatly appreciated by Kenyans and can become increasingly useful in more rural areas where English speakers are less prevalent. ==Get in== ===Visa=== ̈From 1 January 2024, Kenya abolished visa requirements for all foreign visitors and instead moved to single entry [https://www.etakenya.go.ke Electronic Travel Authorization] (ETA). All countries apart from the countries of the East African Community will need to apply for a ETA to enter Kenya. The ETA costs US$34.09. A few countries will get the ETA for free. [[File:Visa policy of Kenya.svg|thumb|375px|Those from countries in dark green don't need a visa, those from countries in light green need an ETA.]] Holders of single-entry ETA can re-enter Kenya without a new ETA if they have only gone to EAC Partner States: [[Burundi]], [[Democratic Republic of the Congo]], [[Rwanda]], [[South Sudan]], [[Tanzania]] and [[Uganda]] and declare it upon re-entry to Kenya with proof of passport stamps. When you re-enter, make sure to do it within the time frame you were given on arrival in Kenya. Ask for the full 90 days on arrival. '''Plastic bags are forbidden in Kenya'''. The ban on the import of plastic bags also applies to tourists. There are strict penalties. Plastic bags in your baggage are to be handed in upon arrival in Kenya. ===By plane=== [https://www.kenya-airways.com '''Kenya Airways'''] (KQ) is the national airline, and one of the largest airlines in Africa. KQ has extensive regional (e.g. to Cape Town, Johannesburg, Harare, Cairo, Entebbe, Accra) and international connections (e.g. to Bangkok, Dubai, London, Amsterdam, New York City, Mumbai). It is also a SkyTeam associate member. Kenya has three international airports: * Jomo Kenyatta International Airport ({{IATA|NBO}}) in [[Nairobi]]. Approximately twenty minutes from the main business district. * Moi International Airport in [[Mombasa]]. * [[Eldoret]] International Airport (local flights and cargo only). Jomo Kenyatta is the primary arrival point for visitors flying into Kenya. There are excellent flight connections provided by KQ to major tourist destinations such as Mombasa, Kisumu and Malindi. Airlines that serve NBO are: Air Arabia, African Express Airways, Air Mauritius, Lufthansa, British Airways, Brussels Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Condor Airlines, Egypt Air, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Etihad Airways, Fly Sax, Kenya Airways, KLM Royal Dutch, LAM Mozambique airlines, Jubba airways, Precision Air Tanzania, Qatar Airways, Saudi Arabian Airlines, South African Airways, RwandAir, Swiss International Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Jambo Jet. More airlines are flying to Kenya, and Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport has become a hub for East and Central Africa. Kenya Airways (among others) also provides direct flights from Nairobi to several West African countries, e.g., Lagos in Nigeria, Bamako in Mali, as well as direct flights to Bangkok and connections to Hong Kong and China. ===By train=== It is not possible to enter or leave Kenya by train as of 2024. Kenya Railways have however stated their intent to revive the existing colonial network to the border of [[Uganda]] and [[Tanzania]], opening the possibilities of international travel in the near future. ===By car=== Major roads are typically paved with various states of maintenance though secondary roads outside of urban areas are typically unpaved. All neighbouring countries can be accessed by road, including Ethiopia via the border town of [[Moyale]], Uganda via [[Busia]] or Malaba, and Tanzania via Namanga or Lungalunga. Turkana, Marsabit, Moyale, Mandera, Garissa, Isiolo, and some parts of Ijara are considered insecure and prone to banditry and terrorist attacks from Somalia. Before driving to the northern region, ensure you check whether there are any security advisories or whether you need to prearrange security escort. ===By bus=== Regular bus services operate between: Nairobi (Kenya) & Arusha (Tanzania); Nairobi (Kenya) & Kampala (Uganda); Mombasa (Kenya) & Dar es Salaam (Tanzania); Kisumu (Kenya) & Kampala (Uganda); * '''Modern coast express''' has buses from *Nairobi to [[Dar es Salaam]]. *Nairobi to [[Kampala]]. *Nairobi to [[Jinja]]. *Nairobi to [[Kigali]]. *Nairobi to [[Arusha]]. *Nairobi to [[Moshi]]. *Nairobi to [[Mwanza]]. *Mombasa to [[Dar es Salaam]]. *Mombasa to [[Tanga]]. *Kisumu to [[Kampala]]. ===By boat=== This is limited to the coastal area, e.g. cruises from Zanzibar to Mombasa. ==Get around== ===By plane=== Most international visitors will arrive through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi (NBO). If you are already in Nairobi and need to get to the airport, plan at least two hours to get there as the main road to the airport is subject to heavy traffic jams, and security checks are tedious. '''[https://www.kenya-airways.com Kenya Airways]''' (KQ) offers the most scheduled connections from JKIA and regular daily flights to the following destinations: [[Mombasa]], [[Malindi]], [[Lamu]] and [[Kisumu]]. Check in is 45 minutes before departure for local flights and two hours for international. Pay attention to the announcements while in Unit 3 of JKIA as passengers on different flights are put in the same waiting area. If you are flying from another destination to Nairobi and using Kenya Airways in the tourist high season (July–September, December–February), KQ flights are frequently delayed and preference is given to international connecting passengers, platinum frequent-flyer card holders, and first-class passengers. Domestic flights operated on Embraer E190 Aircraft. '''[http://www.jambojet.com Jambojet]''' is a low-cost, no-frills airline also flies from JKIA and offers scheduled connections to Mombasa, Malindi, Lamu, Kisumu, Eldoret, Ukunda (Diani). Plans to extend the service to the East African region are underway. Jambojet now fly from Uganda. A one-way flight to Mombasa from Nairobi can cost as little as [[Kenya#Money|Ksh]] 3500 depending on the timing (checked luggage requires an additional fee). Tickets can be booked online and paid for with Visa and Mastercard. The airline's Domestic flights operated on Bombardier Dash 8 Q400 Turboprop Aircraft. '''Airkenya, Safarilink, Skyward Express''' have flights from '''Wilson Airport''' Nairobi to Ukunda/Diani, Malindi, Lamu, [[Amboseli National Park]], Maasai Mara, [[Meru]], [[Nanyuki]] and Samburu. The lounge features a Dormans cafe. Check in can be done up to 15 minutes before departure. Wilson Airport was once the busiest airport in Africa outside South Africa and remains a major hub for local flights to the nature reserves in Kenya and to cities in neighbouring countries. Anyone using Airkenya is advised to lock their checked-in bags. Things have been known to go missing from luggage while in the care of Airkenya. Most charter tourists fly directly to either of the coastal airports of Mombasa or Malindi. ===By bus=== Kenya has a network of long-distance bus lines. Speed is limited to 80&nbsp;km/h, and the highways can be very bumpy and dusty, so be sure to pick a comfortable and reputable coach company such as Modern Coast for the long journeys. Local buses in town are run by private companies, such as the green and yellow Citi Hoppa, which provide transportation along various routes for Ksh 50–100. They have regular services in and out of the Nairobi city suburbs. They usually seat 20–35 passengers (no standing passengers are allowed by law) and are a cleaner and less hectic mode of transport than matatus, while still plying many of the same routes. * [http://theguardiancoach.com Guardian Coach] * [https://www.modern.co.ke/ Modern Coast] ===By matatu=== [[File:MatatuMombasa.JPG|thumb|A matatu in Mombasa]] Matatus are privately operated minibuses, typically for 14 or 25 passengers and operating over short and medium distances. They provide a very cheap and quick method of transport in all the major towns and many rural areas. The name matatu comes from the Kiswahili word for the number three – ''tatu'' – because some time ago the standard fare was three ten-cent coins. Matatus operate along set routes, picking and dropping off passengers at any point along the way. Most rides within cities cost Ksh 40–100. [[File:Matatu in Mombasa.jpg|thumb|A matatu with American rapper Notorious BIG's mural in Mombasa]] Many matatus are poorly maintained and many are to be found with a fascinating and colourful décor — usually global icons in sports and music, designer brands, et al. — which is a major feature of Kenyan urban culture. Travel by matatu can be risky as the vehicles are often extremely badly driven, with matatu drivers swerving in and out of traffic and stopping at a moment's notice by the side of the road for passengers. Matatus used to be usually packed to well over capacity – up to 25 people in a 14-seater vehicle. It is strongly advised not to take matatus at night, as they are known targets for robberies, in addition to the increased risks of reckless night driving. ===By train=== Passenger trains are making a comeback in Kenya with the new railway line, often referred to '''SGR''' (short for standard-gauge railway), linking the capital [[Nairobi]] with the port city of [[Mombasa]]. The line is fully operational with three trains in each direction every day, journey time is about five hours. There is also an SGR line from Nairobi to [[Naivasha]]. [[File:Nairobi SGR Train Station.jpg|thumb|Nairobi SGR Train Station]] Trains are branded as ''Madaraka Express'' and are operated by [http://krc.co.ke '''Kenya Railways''']. There is one ''Express'' train and two ''Inter-Country'', with the latter making more stops along the route. As of 2024, tickets for the full journey are Ksh 4,500 for first class and Ksh 1,500 for second. Tickets can be bought at their dedicated [https://metickets.krc.co.ke website]. While the trains operate at semi-high speed, stations are often far from the city centre. In Nairobi and Mombasa, travel time from the city centre to the station is up to one hour. The old colonial metre-gauge railway network (often referred to as '''MGR''') is being rehabilitated too. While this network is considerable slower compared to SGR (and even intercity buses!), fares are very cheap and the routes are scenic. There's a 2x weekly train between Nairobi and [[Nanyuki]] via [[Nyeri]], departing from Nairobi on Tuesday and Fridays and from Nanyuki on Wednesday and Sundays. Journey time of about six hours. the 3rd class ticket is now 400. Also, there are 1x weekly trains between Nairobi and [[Kisumu]], departs Nairobi Friday. departs Kisumu Sunday on the shores of Lake Victoria. A 3rd class ticket costs Ksh 900. Kenya Railways have stated their intent to revive the network to the border of [[Uganda]] and [[Tanzania]] too, opening the possibilities of international travel in the near future. ===By taxi=== * '''Regular taxis''' are safer than matatus, and some think they should always be used, especially at night. Always negotiate the price before the trip. You can calculate about €1/km. * '''Driving services''' have overtaken traditional taxis for tourists as they are cheaper and you can see the fare beforehand in the app. The following are the most anticipated providers: ** {{go | name=Bolt | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-01-04 | content=Includes many towns. }} ** {{go | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/nairobi/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-01-04 | content=Works in Nairobi. }} ** '''[https://little.bz/ Little]{{Dead link|date=April 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' Provide services related to food, transportation etc. * '''Tuktuk''': They run everywhere in the city centres (except Nairobi) or hotel areas on the coast. These are motorized tricycles or rickshaws like in India, cheap, comfortable and airy, fun and the best way to get around the city centre. Just stretch out your arm and one of what feels like a million tuktuks will stop. Also the best way to get to know a city, every driver will like to "take a lap". Negotiate price! Price approx. €0.5/km * '''Motorbike taxi''': There are also ''Boda-Boda'', that is, young men with their small motorbikes, mostly by the dozen waiting for customers on the coast or at intersections, hotel driveways, shopping streets, in front of bars and restaurants. An alternative to taxi for short trips and during the day, not recommended at night or over longer distances. You should be aware that this is by far the most dangerous type of transport. Avarice can easily end here in the hospital. If you are staying in Kenya for a longer period of time, it is worthwhile to have one or two permanent Boda drivers you can trust and whom you can always fall back on. Price approx. €0.25/km ===By rental car=== Most worldwide rental agencies have offices in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu, and these offer reliable cars with a full back-up network. One can also rent cheaper cars from local distributors who are mostly reliable. However it is always good to do a background check before sending in a deposit. When you hire a car, no matter the brand name, always take note of the various dents, or states of the car as it may prove contentious especially when a "refundable" deposit was involved. When it comes to renting a car for a safari, consider booking a customized vehicle driven by a local tour driver-guide, provided by a Kenya-based tour operator. The reason is that the road conditions in Kenya will pose a major challenge to anyone used to the high standards of quality roads and standards of driving in the West or parts of Asia as well. Roads, even national highways in some cases are in a state of disrepair, may have potholes, unmarked speed breakers (particularly dangerous) and a lack of road signs or directions. It is the general consensus even among Kenyans that standards of driving and road safety in Kenya are deficient and the country has a high rate of serious accidents. Renting a safari vehicle with a trained driver~guide is often not that expensive and this service is offered by companies in Kenya such as [https://www.shoortravel.com/carhire.html Shoor Car Rental]{{Dead link|date=August 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and [http://www.marketcarhire.com/car-hire-rates.html Market Hire.]{{Dead link|date=October 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} There are two types of safari vehicles: the less costly minibus (tour vans) and the 4x4 Toyota Land Cruiser models which cost more but are larger and have four wheel drive. Both vehicle types have game viewing roofs and the minibus is suitable for travel to most destinations except those that may have involve rough or muddy road travel. It is quite convenient to hire a car online and pick it up at the airport once you arrive. The minimum driving age in Kenya is 18 years and for you to hire a vehicle, you may be required to be at least 23 years and have a minimum of 2 years driving experience. Other rules to comply with are: drive on the left side of the road, talking on a hand-held phone is prohibited, seat belts are mandatory and drivers must always carry a valid driver's license. Make sure that the car you are hiring has up-to-date comprehensive and PSV insurance which are normally displayed on the top left side of the windscreen. When hiring a car for cross-border travel you might need to purchase additional insurance and carry the motor vehicle original log book. The Nairobi CBD is traffic prone and it is difficult to find parking on working hours. If you can, avoid going to the CBD on weekdays. However, roads out of the city are relatively easy to navigate and pleasant. Kenya has a lovely countryside and most of the roads linking the major towns are in good condition. Smaller roads however may be dilapidated and you might need to rent a 4X4 to get you there. A good map is essential, and if you are self driving to game parks and the like, a GPS would be very useful - sign posts are rare and you are never quite sure if you are on the correct road, leading to many wrong turnings and backtracking. Some car rental companies provide free extras like a mobile phone with a local number. Other extras that are available at a cost are additional GPS, child seats, camping equipment, rooftop tent and a driver. Most car rental companies offer cars of all sizes with Japanese models being dominant. All reservations can be made in English with some rental companies providing reservations in French, German, Chinese and Spanish. International car rental companies such as [http://www.europcar.com Europcar], [http://www.sixt.com Sixt], [http://www.budget.com Budget], Avis and Hertz offer car rental in Kenya. Local car rental companies like [http://www.hireddrive.com Hire N' Drive] & [http://www.elitecarrentalkenya.com Elite Car Rental Kenya] are usually very competitive and professional. ==See== [[File:Laika ac River Crossing (9679713785).jpg|thumb|Zebras are among animals you may see in Kenya]] In Kenya, nature is the main attraction. The cities offer little really worth seeing, apart from the lively and chaotic city life. Kenya has some of the world's best '''game reserves''' where you can go for a [[safaris|safari]], and see some of the finest [[African flora and fauna]]. The parks are famous for lions, giraffes, elephants and huge herds of zebras, wildebeests and buffaloes. It's wise to shop around for tour operators before picking one, to see what's on offer, who you vibe with, and to get a competitive price. The annual wildebeest migration (from [[Maasai Mara]] to the [[Serengeti]]) is an awesome sight and best experienced in a balloon safari. Bookings to watch the migration are best done months in advance due to the high demand and limited lodging available in the Mara. Migration is during August and September. Kenya also is a great destination for '''beach holidays''', with several located along the coastal regions and the city of [[Mombasa]], especially [[Diani Beach]]. Other coastal towns worth visiting include [[Lamu]] and [[Malindi]]. Kenya is also becoming a '''golf holiday''' destination, thanks to the many beautiful lush courses around the major urban areas including some which have hosted international Golf tournaments such as Muthaiga and Karen Golf Courses. Outside of Nairobi there is the well known Limuru Golf Club and the Great Rift Valley Golf Resort close to Lake Naivasha. Green fees range from US$15–60 per round, plus a US$5–7 caddy fee for 18 holes. The northern parts of Kenya are home to some '''spectacular tribes''' living very traditional lifestyles - you can start to encounter these remarkable societies near to and around the main road north into Ethiopia (the A2 which runs through Marsabit and into Moyale at the Ethopian border), as well as west of this in places such as Wamba, Maralal, Baragoi, Korr, Kargi, and South Horr. Kenya has sites from the independence era and the Nairobi National Museum is a good place to learn about the country's rich heritage and recent events in history. ==Do== * '''Beaches''': Travel organizations usually offer beach holidays at '''South Coast''' or '''North Coast''', which simply means south or north of Mombasa. While the ''South Coast'' (Tiwi Beach, [[Diani Beach]], Galu Beach, Gazi Beach, [[Msambweni]] Beach, Mwazaro Beach) has the nicer beaches and more primordial nature the ''North Coast'' near [[Mombasa]] (Njali Beach, Bamburi Beach, Shandzu Beach, [[Mtwapa]] Beaches, Kikambala Beach) offers much more activities. The beaches further north (Kilifi, Watamu, [[Malindi]]) are like South Coast, primordial and tranquil, not as long and broad as Diani Beach but even more photogenic. [[File:Maasai warriors showing tourist the beautiful Maasai Mara.jpg|thumb|Maasai warriors guiding tourists in the Maasai Mara game park]] * If you want to spend some time in the urban social scene, you might consider attending music and cultural events such as Blankets and Wine, which features international and local artists performing in a picnic-like setting for families and friends looking to enjoy African talent. The event happens on the first Sunday of every month in Nairobi. * Rift Valley Festival, which incorporates a camping experience with a sample of cultural and musical tastes from around the country and internationally. * Samosa Festival is an event set up to integrate the Asian and African cultures in the country. A significant percentage of the urban population is of Asian (Indian) ancestry and has existed since before independence. Their immigration was brought on by the construction of the railway. This event features cuisine from both cultures, poetry and literature (spoken and written), music and games. * Maulid festival is a one-week event that can only be enjoyed in the Coastal region, specifically in the ageless town of Lamu, which has the majority of the population of Muslim faith. It is the one event which everyone from the region looks forward. * The three major cities have an array of nightclubs that play local and international music. Though the experience may be thrilling, it would be wise to visit in the company of a guide or a trusted local, as like any other country with a nightlife, nightclubs may attract untrustworthy party-goers and "clubbers", but this shouldn't ruin your experience as nightclubs are also great places to meet singles and new friends. * '''Be respectful to local communities'''. Carry a consent form to take and publish pictures, always ask before taking pictures. * '''Haggle, but do not over-haggle'''. ===Safaris=== '''Safari''': Watch a wildlife migration in one of the national parks. Go for a game drive in many parks and reserves found in the country. If you are on a tight schedule take a game drive in the Nairobi National Park, less than 20 minutes drive from Nairobi's central business district. Major attractions: big cats including lions and leopards, buffaloes, a variety of antelope species, baboons, and monkeys, among others. Most vacationers who come to Kenya want to combine the beach with a safari tour. Safaris are never cheap, as the entry fees are high and the camps are usually luxurious. Cheap mass tourism is also undesirable as it would endanger the animals. You shouldn't visit too many parks in a short time, otherwise too much time is wasted on transportation. Less is more here. * '''Best travel time''' for safaris: The time of the great animal migration depends on the annual rainfall and can be subject to large fluctuations. The best chances to experience the great migration are in the months of July to September. In the off-season after the rainy season (May - June) the grass is tall and the animals are sometimes more difficult to see, except for elephants and giraffes. On the other hand, nature has fresh colours and the safaris are cheaper. In the high season August–September the grass is short and the sight of animals is easier, but also more expensive. * '''Getting there''': If you want to visit the Masai Mara National Reserve, it is financially worthwhile to travel to Kenya via Nairobi to save the high costs of the flight from the coast to Masai Mara and back. Or, if you have enough time and want to keep costs down, you can start the safari tour from the coast by car to Tsavo, Amboseli, Nairobi, Naivasha, Masai Mara and then back to the coast by plane or train from Nairobi. The best combination of a beach holiday with a safari when arriving via Mombasa are the Tsavo Parks, which can be reached inexpensively by safari vehicle. * '''Clothing on safari''': Maasai Mara is cooler than Tsavo Parks and Amboseli, sometimes below 10 °C in the morning and safari vehicles are usually open. From 9AM, it gets very warm, so a T-shirt and shorts are enough. That is why the "onion look" is recommended, for example zip-off pants, T-shirt and fleece jacket and a "multifunctional scarf" (as a headband against blowing hair when the jeep is open, as a hat when it is cool in the morning, as a scarf when it is too windy in the open car or because of the air conditioning and as sun protection for the head), possibly also hat or cap and gloves for sensitive people. It is also important to have sunscreen, sunglasses, mosquito repellents and enough batteries, as the electricity in the lodges is sometimes switched off overnight. Light shoes or flip-flops (to get on the seat). Getting out of the car is only possible for a short time, if at all, and not wandering around anyway. In the evenings at camp, a fleece jacket and a jogging suit are comfortable. In Tsavo and Amboseli, short clothing plus a windbreaker, multifunctional cloth, mosquito and sun protection, sunglasses and spare batteries are sufficient. In the evening, if you want to stay seated a little longer, a jogging suit and windbreaker are sufficient. ====Booked safaris==== * There are a number of reputable travel agencies on the coast or in Nairobi who organize safaris and have great experience. * There are also illegal providers who work without a license and are cheaper. For your own safety you should give preference to the legal ones. For personal safety, the company should properly maintain and insure its vehicles and have an operating license. Good companies usually have their own office and the vehicles have a company logo that clearly identifies the minibuses and off-road vehicles as company vehicles. For such safari operators, scams are much more difficult because they are easy to track. Company signs on the vehicles should be firmly mounted and not be interchangeable with a handle for the next car, as illegal providers like to do. * If you want to book via the Internet with the local safari providers, e.g. at Diani Beach (which is advisable because of the good local knowledge), you should inquire about several providers, because each company either works with different hotels or receives different conditions at the respective hotel . The prices depend heavily on the time of year, the hotel and the means of transport to the game drive. Camps in the park are more expensive than those outside. A lot of time is lost for the arrival and departure, and there are fewer opportunities to see animals on the game drive. Safaris in which you are accommodated in a minivan with 6 others are cheaper than if you are traveling with a few in an off-road vehicle. Individual trips are significantly better than group trips in a narrow minivan. During animal migration, prices are at the highest level. For good offers, it is necessary to choose the travel time, the number of people, the accommodation in the respective park, the number of days you want to stay in the respective park and the type of transport jeep or minivan. ====Safaris on your own==== Safaris are traditionally always expensive. Anyone who is not in good financial shape or is not a fan of organized tours will consider going on a safari on their own. There are a few things to consider. Basically, you should only consider this if you have experience in Africa, can cope with the chaotic traffic and the often ailing technology of the rental vehicles. Experience with the behaviour of the very dangerous large game animals is also essential. * '''Transport and rental cars''': You should start from Nairobi if you can. The distances to the parks are shorter than from Mombasa. It is easy to drive north especially and you save yourself the dangerous Mombasa – Nairobi Highway. In addition, the range of reasonably suitable rental vehicles in Nairobi is better than on the coast. The top rule on the Mombasa Highway is: Give in and think along. If necessary, there are run-off areas that you can use if someone overtakes without paying attention to oncoming traffic. But it should be clear that it is quite exhausting for the driver. You have to like driving a car and see it as an adventure. And: something always breaks on the car on a safari. You always get help, but you have to have the nerve to deal with that. You are allowed to drive yourself in all national parks! Likewise in the Mara Reserve, not in some Mara Conservancies. * '''Orientation''': Google Maps works generally quite good in cities and on country roads. It's almost useless in the parks themselves. * '''Animal sightings''': As a self-drive, it will take significantly longer to find the animals. You have to pay the considerable fees per day for the park also as a self-driver. If you want to see a lot in a short period of time, you should hire a local guide who is knowledgeable about the area and who is often even better than a driver from the coast. * '''Guides''': For the Tsavo Parks, Nakuru and Amboseli you don't need a guide, in the Samburu Park you might need a local guide and in the Masai Mara it is essential. You ask about this directly when booking the accommodation. Good guides don't just stand at the park entrances. * '''Safari Card''': You have to organize entry to the park. It's not difficult, but you need some information. You can't just go there, as most gates have to be paid in advance or only via [https://www.safaricom.co.ke/personal/m-pesa Mpesa]. * '''Camping''': Almost all camps are not fenced and some live monkeys and baboons who like to help themselves and have no respect for whites. Most of the campsites there are need to be pre-booked and prepaid. There is almost no infrastructure. You should have the right people with you when camping. The wrong treatment of wild animals can quickly result in disaster. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Kenyan shilling | currencyCode=Ksh&nbsp; | date=January 2026 | USD=130 | EUR=150 | GBP=175 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/kes-kenyan-shilling XE.com] }} The currency is the '''Kenyan shilling''', denoted "'''Ksh'''" or by "'''/-'''" following the number (ISO code: '''KES'''). It can be divided into 100 cents, though the smallest denomination in circulation is the 1 shilling coin. Coins in Kenya come in denominations of 1-, 5-, 10 and 20 shillings. Two series of coins are in circulation, one featuring an image of President Mzee Jomo Kenyatta and the current issue featuring Africa's recognisable animals. Banknotes in Kenya come in denominations of 50-, 100-, 200-, 500 and 1,000 shillings. Next to cash, Mpesa (phone transactions) is the most popular payment method and much more common than debit or credit cards. Cash can be topped up or withdrawn in various shops. *ATM networks in Kenya with no withdrawal fee (January 2024): Ecobank, Co-operative Bank, NCBA, GT Bank, Sidian Bank, DTB, I&M, National Bank. *ATM networks in Kenya with withdrawal fees of Ksh 400–700: Standard Chartered, ABSA, Stanbic, Equity, Bank of Africa, KCB, Family bank. *ATMs accept Mastercard, visa card, American Express, JCB, Diners Club, Union Pay and Discover cards. ===Shopping=== Kenya is famous for many handicrafts, which are often the signature of a particular tribe or region. Look for Kisii stone (soap stone) carvings, Maasai jewellery, Mkonde wood carvings, Lamu chairs and batiks. The largest selection of handicrafts can probably be found at the Maasai Market which rotates and can be found at different locations within Nairobi. For example, on Sundays, they are located at Yaya Centre near Hurlingham, and on Saturdays, they can be found at the central business district near the law courts parking space. On Fridays, they are at the Village Market in Gigiri, near the UN headquarters. Gigiri, like Yaya Centre, is a plush suburb, so vendors price their goods accordingly. There is also a fine selection of stores selling craft goods in Mombasa, where the atmosphere is somewhat more relaxed. However, the best prices can be found by buying directly from the artisans in their villages in the countryside. Apart from the typical souvenirs such as wood carvings, it may be a good idea to buy one of the large books with photos of wildlife, nature, or culture. Do listen to and buy some local Kenyan music. Reggae is a very popular genre of music here. Do note that merchants are open to bargaining. They will most often raise the price significantly for foreigners, so do not be afraid to haggle. ==Eat== The cuisine of Kenya is influenced by the country's geography, climate, and diverse cultural heritage. Here are some key features of Kenyan cuisine: * ''Staple foods'': Ugali, a maize-based porridge, is the most common staple food in Kenya. It is often served with stews or sauces made from meat, vegetables, or beans. Other popular staples include rice, chapati (a type of flatbread), and sukuma wiki (a leafy green vegetable). * ''Meat dishes'': Beef, chicken, and goat are the most commonly consumed meats in Kenya. Popular meat dishes include nyama choma (grilled meat), samosas (deep-fried pastry filled with meat or vegetables), and biryani (a spiced rice dish with meat or vegetables). * ''Seafood'': Kenya's long coastline means that seafood is also an important part of the cuisine. Popular seafood dishes include grilled fish, prawn curry, and seafood stew. * ''Vegetables'': Kenya's fertile soil means that vegetables are plentiful and varied. Common vegetables used in Kenyan cuisine include kale, cabbage, spinach, tomatoes, and onions. * ''Spices'': Kenyan cuisine is known for its use of spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and turmeric. These spices are often used to flavor meat dishes and stews. * ''Tea and coffee'': Kenya is a major producer of tea and coffee, and both beverages are an important part of Kenyan culture. Kenyan tea is typically strong and sweet, while Kenyan coffee is known for its rich, fruity flavor. <gallery> Ugali with beef and sauce.JPG|Ugali served with beef and sauce Menu of a typical Kenyan restaurant.jpg|Menu of a typical Kenyan restaurant </gallery> [[File:Tusker.JPG|thumb|Drinking Tusker]] ==Drink== Kenya has several local beer brands, the most popular being Tusker. Imported beers are generally available in higher-end establishments. Imported and local wines and spirits are widely available, though it is advisable to avoid local brews such as "changaa" and "busaa", which are often illegal, unhygienically brewed, and whose consumption has led to deaths on many occasions. Soft drinks, especially from Coca-Cola, are widely available, and the strong, locally produced Stoney "Tangawizi" ginger ale is fantastic. Most bars and small shops will expect you to leave behind your glass bottles so they can return them to their distributors. ==Sleep== [[File:WaterLovers Beach Resort.jpg|thumb|View from a resort at the Indian Ocean]] Nairobi has a wide variety of tourist '''hotels''', from backpackers hostels to five-star establishments such as the Norfolk Hotel. As long as you don't mind basic accommodations, there is no need to spend more than US$100 per night on a hotel or [[hostel]]. In addition, the international Intercontinental and Hilton chains are also represented as well as a number of very highly regarded local chains (Serena and Sarova Hotels). Small boarding and lodging establishments are ubiquitous in central urban areas for low cost, although these are rarely safe as they are located in high crime areas. [[File:Room in Kiritiri guest house, Kiritiri, Kenya.jpg|thumb|Simple room in guest house]] '''Guest houses''' often offer the best value for ''budget minded travellers''. In small towns or villages, lodging can be found for less than Ksh 1,000. The most simple guest houses have shared bathrooms and start at as little as Ksh 500/night--though often of questionable cleanliness and not entirely bug-free. Private, 'self-contained' rooms go for Ksh 500-1000 and often can be rented at bars or clubs (expect a noisy night). '''Homestays''' are increasingly gaining popularity. Part of the reason is that one can experience Kenyan culture in a deeper and more meaningful way. Most homes charge about US$20 per night inclusive of meals. Some may include laundry on that price. People staying '''longer-term''' may rent accommodation; prices range from estate-agent 'international style' rentals US$150 per week, to privately arranged furnished apartments, US$50–100 pw, to 'local' style accommodation, usually unfurnished, in a price range from Ksh 5,000-7,000 per month with windows, water, electricity, down to Ksh 500 per month with no windows, no electricity, loud neighbours, mosquitoes, and shared access to a tap. To arrange privately rented accommodation, you'll need to ask around – cab drivers, shopkeepers, market traders, could all save you the estate agents' fees. ==Learn== There are many colleges offering secretarial and computer courses in the CBDs of Nairobi and Mombasa. There are also many universities, both public and private, and some participate in student exchange programs with international universities. ==Work== A high unemployment rate means work permits are required. These can be difficult to obtain unless you have specialized skills that are lacking in the workforce. You are best off being appointed abroad, as local employment opportunities are low-paying and few. There are many international expatriates who work for non-profit agencies such as the UN and other affiliated agencies. Their pay is very high in relation to local living standards, and as a result their employees can afford to live in luxury. There are numerous opportunities for volunteering in Kenya, whatever skills you have. Websites such as Idealist carry details of many of these placements, which could be centred on education, conservation, community development, or a number of similar areas. Kenya's English-speaking history and relative stability make it extremely well suited for this kind of work. In most cases, volunteering can be undertaken with a standard tourist visa, although it is worth checking with your host organization before travelling as the authorities may not always take this view. If you have specialised skills, there are a number of more focused volunteering programs available. These range from opportunities for medical and engineering placements (for example, with MSF or VSO), to short sabbaticals for people with generic business experience, spent mentoring local businesses, with Skills Venture. ==Stay safe== {{Warningbox|Due to risks of kidnapping, cross-border violence, and banditry, travelling within {{convert|110|km|mi}} of the borders between Kenya and [[Somalia]] is not safe. |au=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/africa/kenya |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/kenya |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/kenya |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/kenya |lastedit=2025-08-28 }} Although Kenya is generally safe, it has had bouts of jihadist activities and occasional post-election violence. Homosexuality is against the law but is practised secretly. Overt displays of homosexuality (especially male to male relationships) may, at times, result in open hostility. Although violent reactions are quite uncommon, it is best to be discreet if engaging in any such activities with travel mates or locals. However, it is common to see people of the same gender hold hands while engaged in conversation. A new law, with penalties of 10 years of jail for many acts of homosexuality or discussing homosexuality is proposed in the spring of 2023, similar to ones in Ghana and Uganda. Stay alert when walking or driving through [[Nairobi]]. You should always be careful to be aware of your surroundings and, if possible, ensure that you have a guide with you. Even daylight muggings on crowded streets are not uncommon. Infrequently, violent and sometimes fatal criminal attacks, including armed carjackings and home invasions/burglaries can occur at any time and in any location, particularly in Nairobi. Particularly avoid walking after dark. Take a taxi if you can afford it, or a bus if you cannot, but care should be taken as most buses, even modern ones, tend to be overcrowded and can pose dangers from pickpocketing. Avoid ostentatious displays of wealth. Objects most tempting to thieves are cameras, phones and electronics. The bus from the airport to downtown Nairobi is a notorious target for pickpockets. Do not ask for prices in English when buying anything, especially from hawkers and bodabodas. Chances are you will pay at least twice normal prices, no matter how good you are at haggling. Use the little Swahili you know so as not to overpay. If you are unlucky and get mugged, a good tactic is to wave your arms and start screaming at the would-be mugger. Confrontations with armed robbers, however, should be avoided – in this instance, remember that your possessions are far less important than your life. Most criminals in Nairobi are more interested in a quick grab and dash than they are in a prolonged encounter. Since robbery is frequently punished by lengthy prison terms or even death, most muggers can be dissuaded by a good show of force. Like in any other city, it is perfectly possible to see, and enjoy, much of Nairobi without incident if you take sensible precautions. The north of the country has a reputation for lawlessness, becoming more dangerous the closer you get to the South Sudanese, Ethiopian and Somali borders. Armed robberies and abductions by ''shiftas'' (bandits) on the roads in these areas are frequent. Avoid travelling to this part of the country if possible, and take special precautions if travelling by road. Armed convoys are normal for this part of the country. Visitors to Lake Turkana (indicated on the map as Lake Rudolf) in the northwest and Lamu in the northern end of the coast should travel there by air. Lodwar, Lokichokio ('Loki') and Moyale are towns best avoided by the casual traveller, unless you have business with the humanitarian organizations based there. In other information, Bringing single-use plastic bags into the country is strictly illegal. Offenders can face severe fines or imprisonment. ==Stay healthy== Protect yourself from '''[[mosquitoes]]''', as they carry numerous diseases such as [[dengue fever]], [[malaria]] and [[yellow fever]]. Get expert advice on malaria preventatives. Guard against mosquito bites. Wear long sleeves and long trousers and apply an effective insect repellent. If arriving from or travelling to other African countries, having a [[yellow fever]] vaccination certificate is typically mandatory. The vaccine can be administered at an affordable price at most reliable Nairobi clinics and hospitals. '''[[Malaria]]''' medications are recommended if you are travelling to rural areas (Nairobi is not within the malaria zone). The prophylactics most commonly used in this region are doxycycline (an antibiotic) and malarone (a combination of atovaquone and proguanil, also sold locally as malanil). Chloroquine is not as useful because of the high incidence of resistance and Mefloquine, also known as lariam, mefliam, and mephaquin, is associated with various side effects, including a high incidence of mood disturbances and a lower risk of severe neurological disturbance. Consult your physician and government health advisories for current advice. If you get flu-like symptoms, including fever, joint aches and vomiting, consult a doctor immediately. If no doctor is available, take a treatment dose of an appropriate anti-malarial and go immediately to a hospital. While the public hospitals are slightly cheaper, long waits and poor conditions and care at these facilities may make it worthwhile to go to a private clinic. Costs will vary, but a typical trip to the hospital for malaria testing, doctor's consultation, and medication will cost US$12-30 depending on the clinic. As malaria can become serious, a trip to the hospital is recommended at the first symptoms of malaria. If you get such symptoms within twelve months of returning home, seek a doctor's advice very quickly and immediately tell them where you have been in the last year. Delayed treatment, even by just a few hours, can lead to permanent brain and liver damage or death. Do not have unprotected sex as '''HIV/AIDS''' and other sexually transmitted diseases are a risk. The country's Adult HIV Prevalence rate (15th in the world) is over '''6.1%''' or '''1 in 16''' adults. Voluntary Testing and Counselling (VCT) clinics offer free testing and counselling for HIV/AIDS. Cholera is another danger. When in affected areas, see a doctor immediately and drink plenty of water. All '''[[water]]''' should be treated, either by boiling or through purifying tablets or filters. This includes Nairobi as well as rural areas. Typhoid fever is a risk and, like malaria prophylactics, the vaccination is not 100% effective. It is advisable to buy bottled water for drinking. It is available countrywide. All fruits and vegetables should be thoroughly washed. While eating from the roadside kiosks is part of the cultural experience that one should not miss, such places do not always have the highest sanitary conditions and stomach illnesses can result. ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} Although Kenya is predominantly Christian and somewhat liberal, there are areas with major Muslim influence, such at the Coastal regions, where it is considered indecent to wear short dresses. This is true in rural Christian areas as well. The locals, however, are extremely friendly. Beachwear is acceptable on the beach but not while strolling around town. Nudism and topless bathing are prohibited in Kenya. Even though some hotels allow topless or nude sunbathing, these are in restricted areas and not in public. Kissing or heavy petting is frowned upon in public, even though Kenyan youth engage in both liberally in night clubs. [[File:Rules kenya.jpg|thumb|Homosexuality is against the law]] Permission is required in order to take pictures of people, as a matter of etiquette. Photos of military and public facilities such as police stations, banks, ferries, etc. are typically prohibited. If you are invited to a Kenyan home, it is proper to bring a small gift according to the occasion. If you are a white man and go out with Kenyans, you are expected to pay the bills. If you invite a Kenyan out to a pub or restaurant, you are also expected to pay their transport costs, especially if you are a man inviting a woman. It is disrespectful to reject food offered to you. Always accept tea and chapati, or mandazi, which is very commonly offered to visitors. The legacy of '''British colonial rule''' in Kenya is a sensitive subject, with the violent suppression of the 1950-62 '''Mau Mau uprising''' by the British government being a particularly sore spot among Kenyans. Tread carefully when discussing this with locals, and try to do more listening than talking. That being said, most Kenyans bear no animosity against regular British tourists, and you are unlikely to run into any problems so long as you are respectful and avoid political debates. ==Connect== ===Internet=== Internet cafés are common throughout Kenya and usually offer decent link quality. Expect prices of Ksh 0.50-1.00 per minute. Most cyber cafes now charge Ksh 1 per minute (2020). ====Mobile providers==== '''Safaricom, Airtel, Telkom''': After purchasing a starter SIM card you may access the net instantly, if you have an Internet-capable handset or a modem. However, when using your account balance to pay for access, the prices are steep. It is much cheaper to purchase a data bundle, and the more expensive ones offer much better price/limit ratio. For example, in 2023, a 5GB data bundle good for one month costs Ksh 500 from Airtel, while a 5GB from Safaricom costs Ksh 1,000. A SIM card costs between Ksh 50-100. In 2021, a sim card from '''Telkom''' was available for free from any of the Telkom promoters on the streets. A good data package from the same provider goes by the name of "Mambo" (Ksh 100 for 3GB, or Ksh 200 for 7.5 GB, valid for 30 days). Be aware that the reliability of Telkom is often poor and network coverage in rural areas non-existent. You will be required to provide valid identification as it is required by law that all SIM cards be registered. You may purchase the bundles by charging your account with scratch top-up cards and then dialing *100# or *544# (Safaricom and Airtel), *124# (Telkom). Once the data bundle is finished, continuing Internet access will consume your account balance (this behavior can be switched off for all providers). ===Wi-Fi hotspots=== As of 2020, there's been an emergence in Wi-Fi hostspots in Kenya. These include Surf WiFi by Facebook and Moja WiFi that offer cheap internet connection in public places. Moja WiFi uses points that could be redeemed to access internet. A new user is awarded 50 points on registering on the network. A user gains points by watching video ads, one ad is equivalent to one point. For 5 points a user gets 24 hours of internet access. Surf WiFi offers cheap internet access. A new user is awarded free 1GB of internet bundle on registration. After that the user receives free 100MB daily by watching a video ad. When a person invites a new user using a referral link both receive 1GB of internet bundle upon registration of the new user. It also offers an app that has an inbuilt map that shows surf WiFi hostspots in the country and recharge shops to buy new bundles. {{geo|0.1|38|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|East_Africa}} {{usablecountry}} gqx4pcwgf0twtui8mf165e3yqc2o5ji 0 18117 5288942 5236949 2026-06-06T22:04:56Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5288942 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Kos banner.JPG}} '''Kos''' (Greek: ''Κως'', also spelt Cos) is a popular tourist destination in the [[Greece|Greek]] islands of the [[Dodecanese]], located in the south-eastern part of the Aegean Sea, near the [[Turkey|Turkish]] coast. ==Understand== {{Mapframe|36.834|27.145|zoom=10}} The island of Kos is part of the [[Dodecanese]]. It is the third largest of this group of islands and the second most popular and touristy island after Rhodes. It is located between Kalymnos and Nysiros. It is very well organised and has everything in terms of tourism infrastructure. The island is part of a chain of mountains from which it became separated after earthquakes and subsidence that occurred in ancient times. These mountains include Kalymnos and Kappari which are separated by an underwater chasm c. 70 m (40 fathoms deep), as well as the volcano of Nisyros and the surrounding islands. There is a wide variety of rocks in Kos which is related to its geographical formation. Prominent among these are the Quaternary layers in which the fossil remains of mammals such as horses, hippopotami and elephants have been found. The fossilised molar of an elephant of gigantic proportions was presented to the Paleontology Museum of the University of Athens. The shores of Kos Island are washed by the waters of the Aegean Sea. Its coastline is 112 km long and is caressed by long immaculate beaches, leading to its main industry being tourism. Farming is the principal occupation of many of the island's inhabitants, with their main crops being grapes, almonds, figs, olives, and tomatoes, along with wheat and corn. Cos lettuce may be grown here, but the name is unrelated. The main villages of Kos island are Kos Town, Kardamena, Kefalos, Tingaki, Antimachia, Mastihari, Marmari and Pyli. Smaller ones are Zia, Zipari, Platani, Lagoudi and Asfendiou. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Kos International Airport | alt={{IATA|KGS}} | url=https://www.kgs-airport.gr/en/ | email= | address= | lat=36.793336 | long=27.091667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kos International Airport | wikidata=Q1420601 | lastedit=2020-10-02 | content= }} ===By ferry=== Daily ferry services [http://www.gtp.gr/] from [[Athens]] ([[Piraeus]] port), [[Rhodos]], [[Patmos]] and [[Leros]]. From [[Kalymnos]] several times daily. From [[Santorini]] about 4 times weekly. From [[Syros]] twice weekly. From [[Astypalaia]] twice weekly during the summer. [https://feribotlines.com/en/ Tilos Travel] sails from [[Bodrum]] twice a day year-round. It's a 25 min trip costing €23 in 2023, in a small cat for foot passengers only. A day-trip either way is easily possible. [https://www.e-ferry.gr/en Sky Marine] sails from [[Bodrum]] twice a day May-Oct in a small cat. It's half the price of Tilos, the catch is that the landing point in Bodrum is not the marina but the cruise terminal several km south. The car ferry from Bodrum isn't sailing in 2023. ==Get around== ===By bus=== It is a fairly small island, and there is every now and then a public bus going to every part of the island. From the airport, there is a public bus going to Kos town via Mastichari and to Kefalos. The timetable is available on the KOS KTEL [http://www.ktel-kos.gr/site_en/ktel-kos-local-bus-schedules website]{{Dead link|date=September 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. ===By ferry=== Depending on the season, there are many passenger ferries leaving for various neighboring islands. The main ferry to Kalymnos leaves from Mastichari approximately every two hours. In high season, there are also daily ferries to [[Nisyros]] leaving from Kardamena. Or you can reach from Bodrum, Turkey to Kos, Greece with ferry: [https://www.e-ferry.gr Bodrum Kos Ferry]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ===By taxi=== There is plenty of taxis on the island. From the airport they will charge at least €15, even if you just go to the Mastichari, which is only 5 minutes away. ===By rental car or scooter=== Scooters, ATVs and cars can be hired from many places. If you hire a scooter for several days, rent can be as low as €14 a day. Roads are mostly asphalted and in a good condition. Reaching Kefalos from the town of Kos takes approx. 40 minutes by car. ==See== * [[File:Κως, πλάτανος του Ιπποκράτη, φωτό αρχείο jpg, 2021-6-12.jpg|thumb|The tree of Hippocrates]]{{see | name=Ancient Agora | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{see | name=Roman Odeon | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{see | name=House of Europa | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{see | name=Casa Romana | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{see | name=Archaeological Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in the center of Kos Town | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Constructed in the Italian style in 1936 and renovated in 2016. It contains the spectacular statues discovered at the site of Roman Odeion, including a statue of ancient physician Hippocrates, the Father of Modern Medicine. The first floor also contains a famous mosaic discovered at the "Casa Romana" on this island, and also a well-preserved statue of Hygieia, a daughter of Asclepius, the deified Greek physician who lived before the War of Troy and who was revered in the 5th century BC as the God of Medicine. Hygeia (or Hygieia) gave to us the English word "hygiene" and her sister Panacea (meaning "a cure-all remedy") was considered in the Greek antiquity as a medical helper who was knowledgeable on healing via plants (phytotherapy). }} * {{see | name=Asclepieion | alt=Asklepieion | url=http://hippocraticfoundation.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= on the right side of the island | phone=+30 22420 22131 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=An Asclepieion (plural "Asclepieia") was a therapeutic center built around a temple of Asclepius -- known as the ancient Greek god of medicine. This ancient healing center is an impressive archaeological site, one of the first ancient hospitals and medical schools in the world, built according to the principles created by the great physician Hippocrates (c. 460 BC - c. 370 BC) and later directed by his sons Thessalus and Polybus. Hippocrates, the "Father of Modern Western Medicine", was born on this island and (according to ancient sources) is believed to have thought medicine to his disciples here, first in a place called Astypalea of Kos (near the small town of Kefalos), and later in the Asklepieion. Hippocrates divided the art of medicine from the practices available in the ancient temples of Greece and established the first rules of scientific diagnosis and therapy. He is also the author of the Hippocratic Oath and is believed to have written some of the books included in the Hippocratic Corpus (a collection of ancient writings on medicine). A large museum and garden dedicated to Hippocrates can be visited at The International Hippocratic Foundation, between the Asclepieion and the town of Kos. }} * {{see | name=Tree of Hippocrates | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.89476 | long=27.29093 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tree of Hippocrates | wikidata=Q1036717 | content=The current tree is only about 500 years old, but may possibly be a descendant of the original tree from 2400 years ago. According to the legend, Hippocrates of Kos taught his pupils the art of medicine under this ''Platanus'' tree. }} * {{see | name=Castle/Fortress of Neratzia | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.8964 | long=27.29 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A castle of Knights Hospitaller from 14th-16th centuries. This castle dominates the port and is where the impressive Avenue of the Palms starts. The entrance to the castle is permanently closed after the earthquake (as of July 2019). }} ==Do== Relax on the beach, wind- and kitesurfing. ===Beaches=== If you are looking for peaceful beaches, try Lakkos, with cedars and dunes, Agios Fokas with its dark sand, or Thermes. Kefalos Bay has a number of good beaches: Camel, Paradise, Polemi, and Psilos Gremos. At remote Cape Krikelos, you can choose from Skinos, Theologos, and Moscholiou. * {{do | name=Mastihari Main Beach | alt=Mastichari Μαστιχαρι | url=https://mastihari.com | email= | address= | lat=36.847980 | long=27.074011 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-19 | content=Mastihari is on the northwestern side of the island. Its main beach is sandy. During the summer season the part nearest to the village has beach furniture on it. However they end near a wind surfing centre, beyond which the beach is open. Other than the fishing boats from the local harbour, there are no motorised power boats - making for a peaceful and relaxing environment. }} ===Yachting=== The island of Kos is a top yacht charter destination in Greece. You can start your sailing experience from Kos and follow any possible route to other magnificent islands. The marina of Kos is at its old harbour and is known worldwide since it has been available to skippers and yachting enthusiasts for over a decade. It has been described as one of the hottest cruising areas in Europe, as it fulfills every need for any type of boat, such as fuel/petrol, speedboats, WC, showers, bilge and sewage pump out, waste disposal and many more. *{{do | name=Istion Yachting | alt= | url=https://www.istion.com/bases/kos-charter-base | email=charter@istion.com | address=G.Papandreou Avenue, Kos Marina, 85300 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2242 022 195 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Visitors and tourists can find a wide selection of yachts and catamarans and suggestions about sailing itineraries from Kos to all the surrounding islands and Turkey coasts. }} * {{do | name=Kavas Yachting| alt= | url= http://www.kavas.com| email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Windsurfing=== There are two windsurfing schools at Kefalos bay that offer lessons (both private and group) for all levels. ===Kiteboarding=== The northwestern part of the island (Mastichari and the Kohilari beach) has good conditions for kiteboarding. ==Buy== ==Eat== If you're on a budget, there is pita gyros for €2.50 sold by most restaurants (some for €2) * {{eat | name=Ampeli | alt= | url=http://www.ampelirestaurant.gr/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Tigaki | phone=+30 2242 069682 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-17 | content=Traditional Greek tavern. }} * {{eat | name=Broadway Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/BroadwayRestaurantKos/ | email= | address=Megalou Alexandrou | lat= | long= | directions=Kos Town | phone=+30 2242 027052 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-17 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Lofaki | alt= | url=http://www.lofaki.gr/en.html | email= | address=Agios Nektarios | lat= | long= | directions={{km|4}} south of Kos Town | phone=+30 694 498 9999 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-17 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Mummy's Cooking Restaurant | alt=Evdokia | url=https://www.facebook.com/taverna.evdokia/ | email= | address=13 Bouboulinas, Kos Towns | lat= | long= | directions=near Dolphin Square) | phone=+30 2242 028525 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Reasonable prices, f.e. Moussaka {{EUR|7}} | content=Tavern with traditional Greek food. Let mummy's son help you decide what to order and be surprised how good it all tastes. }} * {{eat | name=The Watermill of Zia | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/pages/category/Greek-Restaurant/%CE%9D%CE%B5%CF%81%CE%BF%CE%BC%CF%85%CE%BB%CE%BF%CF%82-%CF%84%CE%B7%CF%82-%CE%96%CE%AF%CE%B1%CF%82water-mill-of-Zia-251128441583213/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Zia | phone=+30 697 229 2109 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-17 | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Aegean Houses Hotel | alt=Hotel in Kos | url=http://www.aegeanhouses-kos.com | email= | address=Ethelonton Palaion Polemiston, Lambi, Kos | lat=36.907288 | long=27.27967 | directions= | phone=+30 22420 48410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | content=One of the most beautiful Kos hotels, Aegean Houses is a combination of traditional and modern architecture, 300 metres from the sandy beach. }} * {{sleep | name=Ampavris Hotel | url=http://www.ampavris.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Kos Town | phone=+30 22420 25780 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= A family-run hotel, located in Ampavris area on a small hill just a short distance walk from Kos Town with nice view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artemis Hotel | url=http://www.hotelartemis.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Lambi, Kos Town | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= Artemis hotel apartments is located in Lambi area, just 1km from the harbour and Kos town center. The most popular beach of Kos island is just 150m away. }} * {{sleep | name=Gaia Hotels | url=http://www.gaia-hotels.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Kos City, Mastichari, Tigaki | phone=+30 22420 25804 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= A hotel chain with four resorts hotels located in Kos. }} * {{sleep | name=Katras Hotel Apartments | url=http://www.katras.gr/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Tigaki | phone=+30 22420 68238 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= It is located in Tigaki and consists of 55 sunny rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Leonidas Hotel and Studios | url=http://www.leonidashotel.com/ | email= | address=Sintagmatos Dodekanision st., | lat= | long= | directions=Kos Town | phone=+30 2242026921 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= Leonidas Hotel and Studios is the most popular 2 star hotel and the first discount hotel on Kos island. Price for a Double Room from {{EUR|15}}/night. }} * {{sleep | name=Michelangelo Resort & Spa Hotel | url=http://www.michelangelo.gr | email=info@michelangelo.gr | address=Agios Fokas, Kos 85300 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2242045810 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2242045825 | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A modern hotel with rooms and suites with views to the sea and gardens. }} * {{sleep | name=Sunny Days Hotel | url=http://www.sunnydayshotel.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Tigaki | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= It is situated at Tigaki of Kos 500 meters from the beach. }} *{{sleep | name=Nissia Kamares Hotel Apartments | alt= | url=http://www.nissiakamares.com | email= | address=Kardamena | lat=36.781766 | long=27.140661 | directions=Close to the church | phone=+30 6936706000 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=11:00 | price=Varies | content=Built in a very distinctive traditional Greek island style, Nissia Kamares Hotel Apartments comprises 38 studios and apartments on two floors. }} ==Stay safe== Kos is a very safe area and should not be a major problem for travellers. Just take normal precautions. ==Go next== *[[Leros]] *[[Patmos]] *[[Astypalaia]] {{geo|36.8500|27.2333}} {{IsPartOf|Dodecanese}} {{usablecity}} oydfqdlkiqaywepbov6r9yxveatdmck 0 18561 5288949 5247840 2026-06-06T23:36:41Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5288949 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg}} [[image:RSA_Sugar_Fields.jpg|thumb|400px|Much of the KwaZulu-Natal coastal area is dominated by huge sugar cane fields.]] '''KwaZulu-Natal''' (''Zulu Kingdom'') is a province in the east of [[South Africa]], bordering [[Mozambique]] in the north and the [[Eastern Cape]] in the south. ==Regions== {{Regionlist |regionmap=KwaZulu-Natal regions map.png |regionmapsize=500px |regionInteractiveMap=map1 |region1name = [[Battlefields (KwaZulu-Natal)|Battlefields]] |region1color=#ed74af |region1items= |region1description=Inland area that saw many conflicts between the Zulu, British and Boer forces. |region2name = [[Elephant Coast]] |region2color={{StdColor|t2}} |region2items= |region2description=Very poor rural communities live in this nature wonderland of Umkhanyakude District Municipality, home to the [[iSimangaliso Wetland Park]], Ndumi Game Reserves, the superb [[Lake Sibaya]], [[Sodwana Bay]], the delightful [[Kosi Bay Nature Reserve]] and a host of smaller nature reserves and private game lodges. |region3name = [[Midlands (KwaZulu-Natal)|Midlands]] |region3color={{StdColor|t3}} |region3items= |region3description=Undulating grassy downland with countless hills and rivers. Spectacular scenery, great fishing and canoeing, narrow gauge railways, excellent camping and caravaning. |region4name = [[North Coast (KwaZulu-Natal)|North Coast]] |region4color={{StdColor|t4}} |region4items= |region4description=Spectacular and easily accessed beaches and good holiday resorts. Sugar-cane country, Zulu history, surfing, microlight flying, deep-sea fishing, dolphin viewing. Excellent climate year round, the waters flowing down the coast rarely being less than 25°C. |region5name = [[South Coast (KwaZulu-Natal)|South Coast]] |region5color=#4fc4c0 |region5items= |region5description=A 160-km stretch of sub-tropical forest and beaches, dotted with holiday resorts, stretching from [[Durban]] as far south as [[Port Edward]]. Includes three notable nature reserves (Vernon Crookes, Oribi Gorge, Umtamvuna). Well known for the mid-winter sardine run. |region6name = [[Ukhahlamba Drakensberg]] |region6color={{StdColor|t6}} |region6items= |region6description=Massive and spectacular mountain range at the western edge of the Battlefields and Midlands regions, along the border with Lesotho. Peaks exceed 3000 metres above sea level. Climbing, hiking, wilderness trails, mountain biking and fly fishing. |region7name = [[Zululand]] |region7color={{StdColor|t7}} |region7items= |region7description=Hills, valleys, and historic battlefields. Hot and humid along the coast, cooler and wetter inland. Game reserves include the [[Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park]]. Richards Bay is a major port for the export of coal and minerals and home to a massive aluminium smelter. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#ed74af|title=[[Battlefields (KwaZulu-Natal)|Battlefields]]|wikidata=Q14205677,Q452565,Q1324549,Q2226837}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill={{StdColor|t2}}|title=[[Elephant Coast]]|wikidata=Q1654018}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill={{StdColor|t3}}|title=[[Midlands (KwaZulu-Natal)|Midlands]]|wikidata=Q14224987,Q311803,Q549746}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill={{StdColor|t4}}|title=[[North Coast (KwaZulu-Natal)|North Coast]]|wikidata=Q5289613,Q311668,Q311794}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#4fc4c0|title=[[South Coast (KwaZulu-Natal)|South Coast]]|wikidata=Q14220684,Q311544,Q2091235}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill={{StdColor|t6}}|title=[[Ukhahlamba Drakensberg]]|wikidata=Q183295}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill={{StdColor|t7}}|title=[[Zululand]]|wikidata=Q2309262}} ==Cities== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Durban]]|wikidata=Q5468}} — named in 1835 in honour of Sir Benjamin D’Urban, Governor of the Cape. Excellent beaches and surfing, 3-km Marine Parade, yachting harbour. South Africa’s main cargo port. Sub-tropical, often sultry and hot. Strong Indian influences. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Dundee (KwaZulu-Natal)|Dundee]]|wikidata=Q1265538}} — a coal-mining town and the site of the Battle of Blood River in 1838 * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Eshowe]]|wikidata=Q1367652}} — the oldest town of European settlement in Zululand. Good base to see the Zulu culture. Inland, cooler than Durban in summer. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pietermaritzburg]]|wikidata=Q185591}} — dating back to 1838, the original capital of the Voortrekkers’ Natal. Rich in history, a warm and well watered climate, good boating, canoeing, fishing, scenic drives, and beauty spots. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Howick]]|wikidata=Q1503458}} — home to Howick Falls, a large waterfall that occurs when the Umgeni River falls 95 m. ==Other destinations== [[Image:Map-South_Africa-KwaZulu_Natal02.png|thumb|300px|KwaZulu-Natal]] ===National parks=== * {{marker|name=[[iSimangaliso Wetland Park]]|wikidata=Q310719}} – a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|UNESCO World Heritage Site]] that is one of the most diverse regions in KwaZulu-Natal * {{marker|name=[[Royal Natal National Park]]|wikidata=Q1381505}} — the Tugela Falls, the world's second highest waterfall, can be found here * {{marker|name=[[Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park]]|wikidata=Q2744060}} – a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|UNESCO World Heritage Site]] that contains the largest and most concentrated group of paintings in Africa south of the Sahara ===Other nature reserves=== * {{marker|name=[[Glenholme Nature Reserve]]|wikidata=Q28223206}} — grassland, scarp and swamp forest— you can view a rare swamp forest from elevated boardwalks * {{marker|name=[[Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park]]|wikidata=Q129867}} — the only state-run park in KwaZulu-Natal where each of the big five game animals can be found * {{marker|name=Itala Game Reserve|wikidata=}} — interconnected lakes, which form part of the greater iSimangaliso Wetland Park. The lakes are home to a variety of fish, amphibians, and reptiles, including the threatened African lungfish. The wetland habitats also support a large population of birds, including kingfishers, herons, and storks * {{marker|name=[[Kosi Bay Nature Reserve]]|wikidata=Q3633055}} — its interconnected lakes form part of the greater iSimangaliso Wetland Park and support a large population of birds, including kingfishers, herons, and storks * {{marker|name=[https://www.hluhluwegamereserve.com/mkuze-game-reserve/ Mkuzi Game Reserve]|wikidata=}} — renowned for its birding possibilities * {{marker|name=[http://www.kznwildlife.com/Mount%20Currie.html Mount Currie Nature Reserve]|wikidata=}} — * {{marker|name=[[Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve]]|wikidata=Q1380385}} — at the bottom of the Oribi Gorge where the Mzimkulu River and Mximkulwana River meet * {{marker|name=[http://www.tembe.co.za/ Tembe Elephant Reserve]|wikidata=}} — home to Africa's largest elephants, 340 bird species and the other Big 5 animals: lion, buffalo, leopard, rhino * {{marker|name=[http://kznlive.com/KwaZulu_Natal_Places_Of_Interest/Tala_Private_Game_Reserve/Tala_private_game_reserve.htm Tala Private Game Reserve]|wikidata=Q32027096}} — home to Rhino, Hippo, Giraffe, Zebra, Ostrich, numerous species of antelope (including the rare Sable) and an abundance of birdlife 45 minutes from Durban * {{marker|name=[http://kznlive.com/KwaZulu_Natal_Places_Of_Interest/The_African_Bird_Of_Prey_Sanctuary/african_bird_of_prey_sanctuary.htm The African Bird of Prey Sanctuary]|wikidata=}} — dedicated to the conservation of over 180 different birds of prey of 50 different species * {{marker|name=Umtamvuna Nature Reserve|wikidata=Q7881814}} — at the outskirts of the town of Port Edward, the grassland areas of the reserve are known for their natural display of wildflowers in late spring * {{marker|name=[[PheZulu Safari Park]]|wikidata=Q31986969}} — has a reptile park, Safari game drives, and Zulu dancing ==Understand== ===History=== Bushmen hunters were among the earliest people to explore the region, which offered them plenty of caves and rock shelters, clear waters, abundant firewood, and good hunting. The bushmen were ejected by the Iron-Age Bantu who migrated down from central Africa in the early 1600s. They called themselves the Nguni after their leader, and they were followed by an even larger number of people speaking their same Nguni language. They decided the region was much to their liking. Worth fighting over, in fact, which their clans did with great energy. The Zulu clan under Shaka Zulu welded other Nguni clans together into what became the most impressive military force seen in Africa’s history to that time. Generally, the people enjoyed a good life and were wealthy in terms of the cattle they owned. Europeans arrived in two ways. The Afrikaners trekked from the Cape and entered the region from the west. The English arrived at Port Natal ([[Durban]]) in the east. At first, there was little tension between black and white. But the Africans had no reason to work for the newcomers, so when sugar became important in the second half of the 1800s, the English imported labour from India. The Indian population grew quickly and by the 1890s outnumbered the whites in Natal. The British insisted the Zulus should give up their traditional military system. War followed in 1879, and after scoring a massive victory at Isandlwana, the Zulus soon lost too many men — at least 4000 — and too much heart to continue. Twenty years later and war flared up again, this time between Afrikaner and British. The war dragged on for more than two years before the Afrikaners sued for peace. They ultimately had their revenge, however, by winning political mastery of the entire country, which was in their grips from 1948 through 1994, when the African National Congress under Nelson Mandela came to power. Today the Natal African is at the bottom of the Province’s economy and poorer than ever, apart from those few who have become enriched by the current political dispensation. The Indian community in KwaZulu-Natal, although victimized by apartheid, includes many of the wealthiest people in the country and still outnumbers the whites. As far as race relations are concerned, strong feelings simmer beneath the surface, especially between African and Indian. Indeed, contemporary Black musician Mbongeni Ngema wrote and recorded a song, "AmaNdiya" (the Indians), that was judged to be hate speech. ===Tourist information === * [http://www.zulu.org.za/ KwaZulu-Natal tourism ]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ==Talk== KwaZulu-Natal languages include [[Zulu]], English and [[Afrikaans]]. In KwaZulu-Natal, English is mangled least by the English, more by the Indian, even more by the Africans and worst of all by the Afrikaners. The [[w:South African English|Wikipedia page on South African English]] is worth reading. ==Get in== Most visitors to KwaZulu-Natal begin or end their journey at [[Durban]]. ====By plane==== The only important airport of KwaZulu-Natal is in Durban. It is the province's largest airport and offers domestic and international flights (only to [[Dubai]], [[Mauritius]] and [[Maputo]]). King Shaka International Airport is located at La Mercy, 35 km north of the city. If you’re flying in to Durban, book your rented car beforehand. If you’re arriving on a late flight, book Avis and ask them to keep their kiosk open until you arrive. They are happy to comply. ====By car==== The '''N2''' connects KwaZulu-Natal with [[Mpumalanga]], [[Limpopo]], [[Eastern Cape]] and [[Western Cape]]. If you are driving from the [[Kruger National Park]] to [[Durban]], the '''N2''' between [[Piet Retief]] and [[Pongola]] is often badly pot-holed. You might do better to travel by way of [[Middelburg (Mpumalanga)|Middelburg]], [[Ermelo]], [[Volksrust]], [[Ladysmith]], and [[Pietermaritzburg]]. If you are driving to Durban from the Cape, the stretch through the [[Eastern Cape]] from [[East London]] onwards is hardly worth the bother and can be unsafe in and around [[Mthatha]]. Better to drop off your rental at [[Port Elizabeth]], fly to Durban, and rent again. The '''N3''' connects KwaZulu-Natal with [[Gauteng]] via [[Van Reenen]]s pass. If you are driving through [[Eswatini]] (Swaziland), cross into South Africa at [[Golela]] and get onto the '''N2 southbound'''. Great lengths of the N2 (coast) and N3 (Johannesburg-Durban) are '''toll roads'''. You can pay at the toll plazas with a credit card, but cash may be wiser from the point of view of card fraud. ====By bus==== The main companies run regular buses from Durban to [[Johannesburg]] and [[Port Elizabeth]]. Public transport east of Durban is limited. *The [http://bazbus.co.za '''Baz Bus''']{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} runs from Port Elizabeth to Durban (a compulsory overnight stop) and from there to Johannesburg via the Drakensberg. ====By train==== Durban is linked to Johannesburg by rail, almost daily overnight, and once per week to [[Cape Town]]; trains are operated by [http://www.spoornet.co.za Spoornet]. ==Get around== ===By car=== There are some long-distance bus services, between Durban and Johannesburg for example, but as with the rest of South Africa local public transport is not a good option for tourists. Africans get about on minibus taxis, but these run on set routes, are generally not roadworthy, and are very difficult to understand. You’ll find a couple of international car hire brands including Avis, and there are a few trustworthy local firms including Tempest. The bigger the name, the more likely you are to find a branch in the nearest town, which is important if you have problems with the vehicle. You should take care to understand your liability in the event of damage to the vehicle; even if you are entirely blameless, you will probably have to pay towards the cost of the repairs. ===By taxi=== Taxis are generally a convenient way of getting around for most tourists and locals. There are quite a few options, and the more reliable ones are *'''Umhlanga Rocks Taxis ([http://www.ucabs.co.za Umhlanga Cabs]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }})''', {{phone|+27 31 561-1846}} *'''Eagle Taxis''' Taxis do not rove in Durban, so the best is for you to call their offices. A lot of taxis also operate from most hotels, so that may also be an option to find one if you are in a hurry and close to a hotel. ===By train=== There is a Metrorail suburban rail network around Durban and the North and South Coasts, and inland to Pinetown. However, it is generally not thought of as safe, unless you are in a large group (going to a sporting event, for example, at Kings Park rugby stadium, Moses Mabhida soccer stadium, or Kingsmead cricket ground). ==See== * The second highest [[waterfall]] in the world, the Tugela falls, located in the [[Royal Natal National Park]]. * The museums and historical sights regarding the Anglo-Boers wars around [[Ladysmith]], Spioenkop, [[Frere]] (''where Winston Churchill was captured'') and many other sites. * Sites where scenes from the 1964 film ''Zulu'' were shot there. ==Do== * Explore Zulu culture in the [[Valley of 1000 hills]]. * Enjoy the beaches and warm water of the Indian Ocean. * Explore the Drakensberg mountains. * [[Rock_climbing#South_Africa|Rock climbing]]. * Visit any of the many national parks. * [[Scuba diving]], especially at [[Diving Sodwana Bay|Sodwana Bay]], [[Diving Aliwal Shoal|Aliwal Shoal]], Mabibi and Kosi Bay, and [[Diving in Durban|Durban]]. === Events === *{{event| name=Dusi Canoe Marathon | url=http://www.dusi.co.za/ | year= | month=| date= | endmonth= | enddate= | location= | country= | wikipedia=Dusi Canoe Marathon | content=A marathon canoe race held over three days in mid-February between Pietermaritzburg and Durban. It is run along the Msunduzi and Mgeni Rivers over a distance of 120 km (75 mi). The race attracts between 1600 and 2000 paddlers each year. }} *{{event| name=Splashy Fen Music Festival | url=http://www.splashyfen.co.za/ | year= | month= | date=| endmonth= | enddate= | location= | country= | content=The longest-running annual music festival in the country. Natural amphitheatres, great acoustics, breathe taking mountain vistas, winding rivers and large level fields for camping. Passes R1050-1450, including 4 nights camping. Powered campsite: R2000. Mid-April. }} ==Eat== Since the province has such a strong Indian heritage, it’s a good idea to try the local Indian restaurants. At Jai Pur Palace in Durban, try the eat-all-you-like buffet and sample as many of the dishes that tempt you. Well worth it. At the other end of the culinary scale is bunny chow, a loaf of bread hollowed out and filled with curry. Be careful - food hygiene may be poor where bunny chow is sold. If you are staying at B&Bs, your hosts will know where you can get a good meal. The newer shopping malls generally have a good choice of reasonable eating places; most towns have international fast-food franchises. ==Drink== ==Stay safe== The general South African safety rules apply in this province. A particular menace in KwaZulu-Natal is credit-card fraud. Keep your card in sight at all times, always check that the card returned to you is your card, and check your card statement when you get home. Also be careful of remote jamming in smaller parts of KZN. If someone ever asks you what the time is, do not take out your phone. It will give them a chance to snatch it and run. If someone ever asks you what your number is, '''walk away''', unless they engage in a conversation with you first. {{isPartOf|South_Africa}} {{usableregion}} {{geo|-28.66|30.66|zoom=7}} 8zfezxae1h4rod39vfgiidchvu4g556 0 18931 5288918 5238869 2026-06-06T17:22:45Z Aventuristo 2227055 /* Buy */ The Mission Boutique is closed. 5288918 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lakewood Park (Wikivoyage).jpg|pgname=Lakewood}} '''Lakewood''' is a city next to [[Cleveland]], in [[Cuyahoga County]], [[Ohio]]. ==Understand== ===History=== One of Cleveland's original "streetcar suburbs," Lakewood was built and settled primarily in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Most of its existing housing stock was built in this timeframe, and is surprisingly well maintained. Lakewood has managed to retain many of the best features of a city, small town, and suburb, and scenes reminiscent of all three can easily be found within a few blocks of downtown Lakewood (Detroit Ave. between Cook and Bunts) and in the Gold Coast neighborhood. ==Get in== {{mapframe|41.482|-81.798|zoom=13}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== From the airport, follow Ohio 237 north; from most parts of Cleveland proper, take I-90 or Ohio 2 west and follow the signs. ===By bus=== RTA bus #26 serves both Lakewood and Cleveland along Detroit Avenue, and the Red Line features two stops just inside the Lakewood/Cleveland border, West 117 and Triskett Road, from which you can easily walk to the southeastern neighborhoods of Lakewood. ==Get around== The areas of Lakewood of most interest to a visitor, notably the downtown area, are very walkable and bike-friendly neighborhoods. If coming from Cleveland, the #26 bus runs relatively frequently down Detroit Avenue and takes about 45 minutes between downtown Lakewood and downtown Cleveland. Driving in and around Lakewood is fairly easy as well. The speed limits are {{mph|20}} in school zones and {{mph|25}} on most other streets, and are vigorously enforced. Parking is limited in and near the downtown area, though paid garages and metered parking are available almost everywhere. ==See== * {{see | name=Beck Center for the Arts | alt= | url= | email= | address=17801 Detroit Ave | lat=41.4841 | long=-81.8202 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Beck Center for the Arts | wikidata=Q4878595 | content=Local theater often featuring Kevin Kelly. }} * {{see | name=Nicholson House | alt= | url=https://lakewoodhistory.org/collections-properties/the-lakewood-historical-society-nicholson-house/ | email= | address=13335 Detroit Ave | lat=41.48460 | long=-81.78300 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-09-14 | content=A New England-style home from 1839, with Victorian renovations. Rumored to be haunted. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Divine Statues | alt= | url=http://museumofdivinestatues.com/ | email=info@museumofdivinestatues.com | address=12905 Madison Ave | lat=41.47669 | long=-81.77835 | directions= | phone=+1-216-712-7094 | tollfree= | hours=Sa Su noon-4PM | price=$10 | lastedit=2020-01-01 | content= }} * {{see | name=Oldest Stone House Museum | alt=OSH | url=http://lakewoodhistory.org/OSH/OSH.htm | email= | address= | lat=41.49340 | long=-81.79851 | directions=Lakewood Park | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-01-01 | content=A sandstone house from 1834 that is now a museum of Lakewood History. }} ==Do== [[File:Lakewood Park (37958434441).jpg|thumb|Lakewood park offer stunning views of Cleveland over Lake Erie.]] * {{do | name=Lakewood Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=14532 Lake Ave | lat=41.4956 | long=-81.7969 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Gorgeous park with amazing views of Lake Erie. Site of the yearly 4th of July fireworks. }} * {{do | name=First Federal Lakewood Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.47810 | long=-81.79044 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-06 | content= }} * {{do | name=Clifton Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.4906 | long=-81.8342 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-06 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Malley's Chocolates | alt= | url= | email= | address=14822 Madison Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent chocolate. Store features an old timey soda fountain with a multitude of ice cream treat options. Widely known for their fresh hot fudge. }} * {{buy | name=Marc's Deep Discount Stores | alt= | url= | email= | address=14681 Detroit Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It's always busy, with tiny aisles, and cheap wares. }} * {{buy | name=Rozi's Wine House | alt= | url= | email= | address=14900 Detroit Ave | lat=41.48519 | long=-81.80071 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Family-owned store with an incredibly wide selection of wine, beer, gourmet food, cheese, and gifts. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Aladdin's Eatery | alt= | url= | email= | address=14536 Detroit Ave | lat=41.48540 | long=-81.79700 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Delicious Lebanese food and home of the chain's national headquarters. }} * {{eat | name=Borderline Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=18510 Detroit Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Tiny tex-mex style breakfast nook. Almost always packed and closes at 2PM. }} * {{eat | name=Dianna's Deli & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=1332 W. 117th St | lat=41.48555 | long=-81.76912 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24-hour, home-style diner, with a very colorful (sometimes not for the best) wait staff. }} * {{eat | name=Elmwood Home Bakery | alt= | url= | email= | address=15204 Madison Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Delicious cakes, breaks, and baked goods. As featured in the movie ''American Splendor''. }} * {{eat | name=Melt Bar and Grilled | alt= | url=https://meltbarandgrilled.com/ | email= | address=14718 Detroit Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Melt Bar and Grilled | wikidata=Q6813722 | content=Incredibly long waits only matched by the amazing food. Cheese! }} * {{eat | name=Szechwan Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address=13800 Detroit Ave | lat=41.48557 | long=-81.78791 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Yummy Chinese foods. }} *{{eat | name=Pier W | alt= | url=http://www.selectrestaurants.com/pier/index.php | email= | address=12700 Lake Ave. Winton Pl | lat=41.49357 | long=-81.77809 | directions= | phone=+1 216 228-2250 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Described as a ˝landmark Cleveland restaurant˝ but it's within Lakewood city limits. Serves delicious food, with a mostly seafood menu, and offers a bar and valet parking. Nice atmosphere and great view of the lake. Sunday mornings are their buffets - a nice time to bring the whole family. A bit pricey }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Sauced Taproom | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.48500 | long=-81.79898 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-01-06 | content= }} * Riverwood Cafe * {{drink | name=Humble Wine Bar | alt= | url=https://humblewinebar.com/ | email= | address=15400 Detroit Ave | lat=41.48525 | long=-81.80385 | directions= | phone=+1-216-767-5977 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 4-10PM, F Sa 4-11PM | price= | lastedit=2020-01-01 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Game On | alt= | url= | email= | address=17103 Detroit Ave | lat=41.48522 | long=-81.81586 | directions= | phone=+1-216 303 9700 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 4PM-2:30AM, F noon-2:30AM | price= | lastedit=2020-01-01 | content=Sports bar }} ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Days Inn Cleveland Lakewood | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.4892 | long=-81.7732 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Travelodge Cleveland Lakewood | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.4901 | long=-81.7709 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | name=Lakewood Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.lakewoodpubliclibrary.org/ | email= | address=15425 Detroit Ave | lat=41.48462 | long=-81.80425 | directions= | phone=+1-216-226-8275 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-9PM, Su 1-9PM | price= | lastedit=2020-01-01 | content= }} ==Stay safe== Most parts of Lakewood are very safe, particularly by comparison to Cleveland proper. At night, use caution in the neighborhoods adjacent to West 117th Street south of Detroit, and Madison Avenue east of Madison Park. ==Respect== Lakewood is well known as an economically, culturally and ethnically diverse community. Prejudice in any form is not appreciated, but treat other people the way you wish to be treated, regardless of any differences, and you should be fine. ==Go next== Explore '''[[Cleveland]]''' or the metro area. {{routebox | image1=I-90.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Westlake]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Erie]] | minorr1='''[[Cleveland]]''' | image2=US 6.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Sandusky]] | minorl2=[[Avon Lake]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Meadville]] | minorr2='''[[Cleveland]]''' | image3=US 20.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=W | majorl3=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl3=[[Westlake]] | directionr3=E | majorr3=[[Erie]] | minorr3='''[[Cleveland]]''' | image4=OH-2.svg | imagesize4=22 | directionl4=W | majorl4=[[Sandusky]] | minorl4=[[Westlake]] | directionr4=E | majorr4=Painesville | minorr4='''[[Cleveland]]''' }} {{geo|41.480833|-81.800278}} {{IsPartOf|Cuyahoga County}} {{usablecity}} 87e85gsgtqlfx20shc5f8gzqbd4b2cx 0 19047 5289008 5201621 2026-06-07T06:46:17Z ~2026-33432-01 2419418 /* By taxi */ Added listing for Langley Limo & Chauffeur Service 5289008 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg|pgname=Langley}} The '''[https://www.tol.ca/ Township of Langley]''' and the '''[https://city.langley.bc.ca City of Langley]''' are nestled together in the [[Fraser Valley]] of [[British Columbia]]. It includes the historical village and National Historic site of Fort Langley on the south bank of the Fraser River. We cover both Langleys in this article. ==Understand== [[File:Fort Langley Community Hall.jpg|thumb|Fort Langley Community Hall]] The Township of Langley runs from the bank of the Fraser River to the [[United States of America|US]] border in the south. To the west is [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], to the east is [[Abbotsford]]. To the north of the river are [[Pitt Meadows]] and [[Maple Ridge]]. Langley is considered the "Birthplace of British Columbia" because Fort Langley (founded 1827 about 3 km from the present fort) was the first capital and first significant non-native settlement in the mainland BC colony. The two jurisdictions are seamless and few locals even understand the political boundaries between the city and the township. * {{listing | name=Langley City Hall | alt= | url=https://city.langley.bc.ca/ | email= | address=20399 Douglas Crescent | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 604-514-2800 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Offers maps and a "Pocket Tourism Guide". }} * {{listing | name=Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce | alt= | url=https://www.langleychamber.com/ | email= | address=#1-5761 Glover Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 604-530-6656 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Offers visitor information by phone. }} The town was used as the filming location for the [[Puget Sound]] town of Port Townsend in [[Washington (state)|Washington]], [[United States]] for the Netflix show ''Dead Boys Detectives''. ==Get in== {{mapframe|49.0975|-122.5813|zoom=11|width=400|height=500}} {{mapshape|wikidata=Q923243,Q1805330}} See [[Vancouver]] for options to get in the Vancouver area by plane, by bus, and by train, and by boat. === By plane === The nearest airport to Langley is a 30-minute drive to the [[Abbotsford]] International Airport ({{IATA|YXX}}), while the Vancouver International Airport ({{IATA|YVR}}) is a 45-minute drive in [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]]. The [[Bellingham (Washington)|Bellingham]] International Airport ({{IATA|BLI}}) is a 45-minute drive (plus border time) across the U.S border. * {{go | name=Langley Municipal Airport (CYNJ) | alt= | url=https://ynj.tol.ca/ | email=manager@langleyairport.bc.ca | address=5385 216th St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 604-534-7330 | tollfree= | fax=+1 604-534-7330 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3915752 | content=A small general-aviation airport with a 2100' x 75' runway. '''[http://www.harbour-air.com/ Harbour Air Seaplanes]''' offers three flights daily from [[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]] harbour. }} === By car === * '''Highway 1A''' (Fraser Highway) and '''the Langley Bypass''' (which becomes '''Highway 10''') are convenient driving east-west routes into Langley city. '''Highway 1''' ([[Trans-Canada Highway]]) runs east-west through the township to the north of the city. * '''Highway 13''' travels north-south between Highway 1 at the north and the United States border to the south. * The '''Golden Ears Bridge''' crosses the Fraser River at Walnut Grove (a Langley Township suburb) and takes you into [[Pitt Meadows]] and [[Maple Ridge]]. ==== Border crossing ==== * {{go | name=Aldergrove - Lynden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.0024 | long=-122.4849 | directions=Langley, BC (Highway 13) - [[Lynden|Lynden, WA]] (WA-539, the Guide Meridian) | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 8AM to midnight | price= | wikipedia=Lynden–Aldergrove Border Crossing | wikidata=Q24190264 | lastedit=2023-08-07 | content=NEXUS lane to United States only. Open to all vehicles. }} === By bus === * {{listing | name=Mountain Man Mike's Bus Service | alt= | url=https://mountainmanmikes.ca/ | email=info@mountainmanmikes.ca | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-778-382-7729 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-19 | content=Twice per week service between [[Kaslo]] and [[Vancouver]] with stops in [[Ainsworth_Hot_Springs-Balfour|Balfour]], [[Nelson_(British_Columbia)|Nelson]], [[Castlegar]], [[Christina Lake]], [[Grand_Forks_(British_Columbia)|Grand Forks]], [[Greenwood (British Columbia)|Greenwood]], Rock Creek, [[Osoyoos]], [[Keremeos]], [[Princeton_(British_Columbia)|Princeton]], [[Manning Provincial Park]], [[Hope_(British_Columbia)|Hope]], [[Chilliwack]], [[Abbotsford]], Langley, and [[New Westminster]]. This service provider also offers a weekly route between Kalso and [[Calgary]] via Nelson. }} ==Get around== Many parts of Langley consist of property on acreage: you will require a car to get around anywhere but central Langley city, which can be walked or biked. ===By public transit=== ==== BC Transit ==== {{listing | name=BC Transit (Central Fraser Valley Transit System) | alt= | url=https://www.bctransit.com/central-fraser-valley/home | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-604-854-3232 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=BC Transit | wikidata=Q4179186 | lastedit=2022-04-06 | content=Operates bus routes in [[Abbotsford]] and [[Mission (British Columbia)|Mission]]. }} * Operates bus route 21 between the Aldergrove area of Langley and Abbotsford. Operates Monday to Friday with numerous trips, and Saturday and Sunday with a number of trips. In Aldergrove it connects with TransLink's bus route 503. * Operates bus route 66 between [[Burnaby]] and [[Chilliwack]] with stops in Langley and Abbotsford. Operates daily with numerous trips. The stop in Langley is at Carvolth Exchange in north Langley. ==== TransLink ==== {{listing | name=TransLink | alt= | url=https://www.translink.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-604-953-3333 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=TransLink (British Columbia) | wikidata=Q1142140 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=The main public transit network in the Vancouver area, including: Bowen Island, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Delta, Langley, Lions Bay, Maple Ridge, New Westminster, North Vancouver, Port Coquitlam, Pitt Meadows, Port Moody, Richmond, Surrey, Vancouver, West Vancouver, and White Rock. Its network includes buses, SkyTrain (rail rapid transit), SeaBus (ferries), West Coast Express (commuter rail), and HandyDART (door-to-door shared-ride service for those who cannot ride public transit without assistance). }} Passengers can pay for fares using Compass Cards ($6 refundable deposit), Compass Tickets, or tap-to-pay using contactless credit cards (only American Express, Mastercard or Visa) or mobile wallets. Passengers using Compass Cards and Compass Tickets pay discounted fares. Passengers can transfer for up to 90 minutes, except if taking West Coast Express, in which case they can transfer for up to 120 minutes. On bus and HandyDART, passengers can also pay in cash, but in that case will not receive change and are not eligible for transfers. Zone based fares apply between Monday and Friday for trips starting before 6:30 pm, if travel involves SkyTrain or SeaBus. Outside of those hours or for travel on only bus or HandyDART, a single zone rate applies. If traveling by West Coast Express, a higher cost zone based fare system applies regardless of time of travel. Children 12 and under can ride for free. People aged 13 to 18, and 65 and older pay discounted concession fares. {| class="wikitable" ! Zones !! Adult !! Concession |- | 1 || {{translink|1}} || {{translink|1c}} |- | 2 || {{translink|2}} || {{translink|2c}} |- | 3 || {{translink|3}} || {{translink|3c}} |- | All buses and Skytrain on weekdays after 6:30PM, holidays, weekends || {{translink|1}} || {{translink|1c}} |} For travel from the airport, take the SkyTrain Canada Line between YVR Airport station and Waterfront station, take SkyTrain Expo Line between Waterfront station and Surrey Central station (trains terminating at King George station), then transfer to a bus traveling toward your destination in Langley. Trips traveling from the airport have an extra $5 per passenger added on top of the zone fare, whereas trips to the airport do not have this added fare. ===== By bus ===== TransLink has only thin coverage of Langley, but it exists. Notable bus routes, all which operate daily include: * 320 - Between Langley Centre and [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] Central station (SkyTrain Expo Line). Travels via Surrey's Cloverdale and Fleetwood neighbourhoods. * 364 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and Langley Centre. Travels mostly along 64 Ave. For a portion of the route, it travels along Scott Road, which is the boundary between [[Delta (British Columbia)|Delta]] and Surrey. * 501 - Between Langley Centre and Surrey Central station (SkyTrain Expo Line). Travels via Carvolth Exchange in north Langley. * 502 - Between Langley Centre and Surrey Central station (SkyTrain Expo Line). Travels via Fraser Highway, the most direct path of travel between the two termini on this route. * 503 - Between Aldergrove and Surrey Central station (SkyTrain Expo Line) via Langley Centre. Between Langley Centre and Surrey Central station, it travels along the same route as route 502, but with limited stops. In Aldergrove it connects with BC Transit's bus route 21. * 531 - Between Willowbrook and [[White Rock]] via Langley Centre. * 555 - Between Carvolth Exchange in north Langley and Production Way station (SkyTrain Expo and Millennium Lines) in [[Burnaby]] * 595 - Between Langley Centre and Maple Meadows station (West Coast Express) in [[Maple Ridge]] via Carvolth Exchange in north Langley. === By taxi === * {{Listing|name=Langley Taxi|url=http://www.langleytaxi.ca/|phone=+1 604-530-4444|lastedit=2022-02-28}} * {{Listing|name=Pacific Cabs|url=https://pacificcabs.com/|phone=+1 604-596-6666|lastedit=2022-02-28}} * {{go | name=Langley Limo & Chauffeur Service | alt= | url=https://www.signaturecarservice.ca/langley-limo-chauffeur-service/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 778-651-7711 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-07 | content= }} === By ride hailing === There are three [[ride hailing services]] in the city: * {{listing | name=Kabu | alt= | url=https://www.kabu.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Lyft | alt= | url=https://www.lyft.com/rider/cities/vancouver-bc | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lyft | wikidata=Q17077936 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/vancouver/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Uber | wikidata=Q780442 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} ==See== [[File:CanadairCT133SilverStar07A.JPG|thumb|Canadair CT133 SilverStar at the Canadian Museum of Flight]] * {{see | name=Canadian Museum of Flight | alt= | url=http://www.canadianflight.org | email=museum@direct.ca | address=Hangar # 3 - 5333 216th St | lat=49.0994 | long=-122.626 | directions= | phone=+1 604-532-0035 | tollfree= | fax=+1 604 532-0035 | hours=10AM-4PM daily | price=$10 (adult), $7 (students/seniors) | wikipedia=Canadian Museum of Flight | wikidata=Q2935795 | lastedit=2017-01-14 | content=This tiny museum preserves a surprisingly large collection of aircraft significant to Canadian aviation in a corner of Langley airport. The hangar has some smaller planes and displays on the two World Wars and Women in Aviation. Some larger planes are on display outside. }} [[File:FortLangley-TheBigHouse.JPG|thumb|Fort Langley National Historic Site, the Big House]] [[File:FortLangley-ViewFromNorthEastBastion.JPG|thumb|Fort Langley, View from Northeast Bastion]] * {{see | name=Fort Langley National Historic Site | alt= | url=https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/bc/langley | email=fort.langley@pc.gc.ca | address=23433 Mavis Ave | lat=49.1681 | long=-122.572 | directions= | phone=+1 604-513-4777 | tollfree= | fax=+1 604 513-4798 | hours=10AM-5PM | price=Adult $7.80, senior $6.55, children under 18 are free, group and season discounts available | wikipedia=Fort Langley National Historic Site | image=Fort Langley.jpg | wikidata=Q1282806 | lastedit=2019-10-26 | content=The Hudson's Bay Company established their trade operation here on the Fraser River as a transshipment location for European made goods (blankets, metalware, rope, clothing, etc.) destined for interior posts and natural resources (furs, salmon, cranberries, butter, salt meat) to external markets. On November 19, 1858, in the Big House of the fort, Governor James Douglas, with Judge Matthew Bailie Begbie and other dignitaries of the British crown, read the proclamation from Queen Victoria that established the Colony of British Columbia. Today, Fort Langley National Historic Site of Canada helps to tell the story of local fur trade and agricultural pursuits, as well as the colonization story and the ongoing history of the area. In the one original and half-dozen reproduction buildings, there are films, exhibits, and some hands-on demonstrations of blacksmithing and gold-panning. During the summer, there are daily campfires at 7PM with marshmallows and stories. You can take day-long blacksmithing or canoeing adventures. Special events include Canada Day, horse- and ox- and wagons rides, and a historic reenactment dinner. }} * {{see | name=Greater Vancouver Zoo | alt= | url=https://www.gvzoo.com/ | email= | address=5048-264th St | lat=49.0923 | long=-122.487 | directions=Highway 1 to Exit 73, then south | phone=+1 604-856-6825 | tollfree= | hours=May-Sep: daily 9AM-7PM, Oct-Apr: daily 9AM-4PM | price=// Children and seniors $17, student $19, adult $24, train ride $5, parking $6 | wikipedia=Greater Vancouver Zoo | wikidata=Q5600807 | lastedit=2019-10-26 | content=Mid-sized zoo with a range of animals, including lions, tiger, giraffe, zebras, hippo and monkeys. The train ride around the zoo is popular, as are the hippo and giraffe feedings. The distances can be large, so bikes are available for rent or you can bring your own. }} * {{see | name=Toy Traders | alt= | url=https://toytraders.ca/ | email= | address=19880 Langley Bypass | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 604-532-9516 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | lastedit=2026-01-30 | content=Not only is it a large toy store, it's also a toy museum showing the owner's personal collection of vintage toys. }} ==Do== * '''Wine tasting''', as there are several vineyards and wineries in Langley. See "Drink" section for local wineries. * {{do | name=Campbell Valley Regional Park | alt= | url=https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/park/campbell-valley-regional-park | email= | address= | lat=49.0299 | long=-122.6608 | directions=just off of 16 Ave, between 200 St and 208 St | phone=+1 604-530-4983 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Campbell Valley Regional Park | wikidata=Q14874575 | lastedit=2023-07-28 | content=Featuring areas of forest, grasslands, and wetland, the park has 33 km of hiking trails. It has a large equestrian trail that makes a large loop along the perimeter of the park. }} * {{do | name=Krause Berry Farms | alt= | url=https://www.krauseberryfarms.com/ | email=info@krauseberryfarms.com | address=6179 248 Street | lat=49.113413 | long=-122.53987 | directions= | phone=+1 604 856-5757 | tollfree= | hours=Jun-Aug: M-Sa 8AM-8PM, Su & holidays 9AM-6PM; Sep-Oct: W-Su 9AM-5PM; Nov-Dec: Th-Su 10AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=U-pick berry farm, market, bakery, estate winery, and waffle bar. }} * {{do | name=Vancouver Giants Hockey | alt= | url=https://vancouvergiants.com/ | email= | address=7888 200th St | lat=49.146 | long=-122.6663 | directions=at the Langley Events Center | phone=+1 604-444-2687 | tollfree= | hours= | price=$17.50 and up | wikipedia=Vancouver Giants | wikidata=Q2031079 | lastedit=2023-07-17 | content=Vancouver's junior hockey team. Not quite as skilled as the pros at Rogers Arena, but a cheaper and sometimes more entertaining option if you want to catch a hockey game while in town. Games are usually 2-3 teams a week from Oct through April. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster or at the box office. }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Langley Canada Day Celebrations | alt= | url= | email= | address=MacLeod Athletic Park, corner of 56th Avenue and 216 Street | lat=49.106432 | long=-122.625167 | directions=across the street from Langley Airport | phone=+1 604 522-6232 | tollfree= | fax=+1 604-539-9591 | hours=June 30-July 1: 11AM-11PM | price=Free entrance and parking, some activities have a charge | content=This two-day celebration of Canada is held on or near Canada Day, July 1st, each year. It is one of the largest in the province. It is a family-oriented event with stage shows, music, games, static aircraft displays, and more. }} == Learn == * {{Learn|name=Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) - Langley campus|url=https://www.kpu.ca/|address=20901 Langley Bypass|lat=49.10904|long=-122.64546|phone=+1 604-599-2000|wikidata=Q3335261|lastedit=2023-09-24|content=Publicly funded university.}} * {{Learn|name=Trinity Western University (TWU) - Langley campus|url=https://www.twu.ca/|address=22500 University Drive|lat=49.1404|long=-122.6002|phone=+1 604-513-2019|wikidata=Q6569551|lastedit=2023-09-24|content=A private Christian university, it offers undergraduate and graduate programs. The Langley campus occupies 157 acres and is the university's main campus.}} ==Buy== [[File:Main Street, Fort Langley.jpg|thumb|Main Street, Fort Langley]] Langley offers a wide variety of stores offering [[horses|equestrian]] supplies. Being "the horse capital of BC", there exist many places to buy whips, saddles, feed, and other horse (and general livestock) provisions. Other shopping areas in Langley are: * {{buy | name=Downtown Langley | alt= | url=https://www.downtownlangley.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Langley City; around Fraser Hwy between Glover Rd & 200 St | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=Downtown Langley is home to over 500 unique shops, services and restaurants. This pedestrian-oriented shopping area features free parking, and includes historic Innes Corners, trendy McBurney Plaza as well as the Cascades Casino Resort. }} * {{buy | name=Fort Langley | alt= | url=http://www.fortlangleyvillage.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Fort Langley | wikidata=Q905710 | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=Fort Langley has about 80 businesses and its commercial core has a mix of services, restaurants and retail stores. Centred along Glover Road, it's known for its selection of independent businesses and historic character. }} * {{buy | name=Willowbrook Shopping Centre | alt=Willowbrook Mall | url=https://www.shopwillowbrook.com/ | email= | address=19705 Fraser Highway | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Willowbrook Shopping Centre | wikidata=Q8022411 | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=The largest shopping centre in Langley and lies directly across from the city limits of Surrey. Willowbrook has over 150 stores and services. Its anchor stores are Hudson's Bay, H&M, Toys "R" Us, and Sport Chek. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Bacchus Bistro | alt= | url=https://www.chabertonwinery.com/bacchus-bistro/ | email=info@domainedechaberton.com | address=1064 - 216 Street | lat=49.103138 | long=-122.652728 | directions=Located at Domaine de Chaberton Estate Winery, on 216th Street between 16 Ave to the north and 8 Ave to the south | phone=+1 604 530-9694 | tollfree= | fax=+1 604 533-9687 | hours=W Th Su 11:30AM-3PM; F Sa 11:30AM-3PM and 5:30PM-9:30PM; M Tu closed | price=Lunch about $30, dinner about $50 | lastedit=2022-02-28 | content=Authentic French cuisine with fresh ingredients from the Fraser Valley, overlooking the Domaine de Chaberton vineyard. Lunch five days/week, dinners on Friday and Saturday. Reservations recommended. Also hosts parties and receptions. }} * {{eat | name=Ban Chok Dee | alt= | url=https://banchokdee.com/ | email= | address=20563 Douglas Cres | lat=49.103138 | long=-122.652728 | directions= | phone=+1 778-278-3088 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-3PM, 4:30-9PM | price= | lastedit=2022-02-27 | content=Offers delicious authentic Thai cuisine. }} *{{eat | name=Mr. Mike's Steakhouse & Grill | alt= | url=https://mrmikes.ca/ | email= | address=300-20020 Willowbrook Drive | lat=49.116416 | long=-122.667902 | directions= | phone=+1 604-534-1100 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2022-02-28 | content=The revised version of the historic Mr. Mike's West Coast Grill. Now a full-service casual restaurant. The MikeBurgers are exactly as you remember them, however the salad bar is no longer. Try the Shrimp Stuffed Shrooms and see if you can finish the Avalanche MikeBurger: two patties, Mikesauce, bacon, mushrooms, lettuce, onion, and tomato on a toasted French loaf bun. Seating is all first-come, first-served- no reservations. }} * {{eat | name=Outpost Eatery | alt= | url=http://www.thefortwineco.com/visitwinery.html | email=fwcweb@thefortwineco.com | address=26151 84th Ave | lat=49.1550285 | long=-122.4995313 | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-866-921-9463 | fax=+1 604-857-1139 | hours= | price=$5-10 |lastedit=2022-02-28| content=Soups, salads, cheese platters, side dishes. Part of the Fort Wine Company. Reservations accepted. }} * {{eat | name=Sushi Gio | alt= | url=https://sushigio.com/ | email=sushigiolangley@gmail.com | address=20177 88 Ave #1 | lat=49.163121 | long=-122.661997 | directions=Hwy exit 200 St. then get one 88 Ave | phone=+1 604 371-2411 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2022-02-28 | content=This is one of the best sushi restaurants in town. The restaurant is located in the Walnut Grove area and takes reservations and take out. The food is always fresh and the atmosphere is suitable for family outings. }} ==Drink== Though nowhere near as known or as plentiful as in the [[Okanagan]], the Lower Mainland has [[wine|wineries]], many of which are in Langley: * {{drink | name=Backyard Vineyards | alt= | url=https://www.backyardvineyards.ca/ | email= | address=3033 232 Street | lat=49.057063 | long=-122.582381 | directions=on 232 St just south of 29B Ave | phone=+1 604 539-9463 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 11AM-5PM; F-Su 11AM-6PM | price=Tasting $7/person; tour & tasting $15/person | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=Vineyard and winery at this site. Tours at 1PM, 3PM daily (May-Aug). Also offer wine tasting (four samples/person) and sales. }} * {{drink | name=Blackwood Lane Vineyards & Winery | alt= | url=https://www.blackwoodlane.ca/ | email=info@blackwoodlanewinery.com | address=25180 8 Avenue | lat=49.015191 | long=-122.526489 | directions= | phone=+1 604-856-5787 | tollfree= | fax=+1 604-856-5784 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=Makes small quantities of high-quality wines from grapes grown on their 12 acres here and in the Okanagan. They are building a Tuscan-style winery complete with the Fraser Valley's only wine cave. Tastings by appointment. }} * {{drink | name=Domaine de Chaberton Estate Winery tours | alt= | url=https://www.chabertonwinery.com/ | email=info@domainedechaberton.com | address=1064 216 Street | lat=49.02176 | long=-122.623947 | directions=on 216th Street between 16 Ave to the north and 8 Ave to the south | phone= | tollfree=+1-888-332-9463 | fax=+1 604 533-9687 | hours=Tours daily, Feb-Nov at 2PM, 4PM; Dec-Jan at 3PM (weather permitting) | price=Tasting and tours free | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=Home of the Chaberton and Canoe Cove labels, this 55-acre winery was founded in 1975 by Claude and Inge Violet of France. Conventional wisdom in the [[Okanagan]] Valley vineyards was that they were "mad" to found the first winery in the rainy [[Fraser Valley]], but they had found a favourable microclimate. See also the Bacchus Bistro and the wine shop at the winery. Picnic tables and ample parking, fairly large tasting room and a gift shop. }} * {{drink | name=The Fort Wine Company | alt= | url=http://www.thefortwineco.com/ | email=fwcweb@thefortwineco.com | address=26151 84 Avenue | lat=49.155042 | long=-122.499484 | directions= | phone=+1 604-857-1101 | tollfree=+1-866-921-9463 | fax=+1 604-857-1139 | hours=Summer: daily 10AM-7PM; closed Christmas, Boxing Day & New Year's Day | price= | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=A premium fruit winery making table and dessert wines. Free wine tasting, and winery tours (Sunday 1PM and 3PM only). See ''[[#Eat|Eat]]'' for their Outpost Eatery. }} * {{drink | name=Township 7 Vineyards & Winery tasting | alt= | url=https://township7.com/ | email=wine@township7.com | address=21152 16 Avenue | lat=49.031086 | long=-122.63766 | directions=at the corner of 16th Avenue and 212th Street | phone=+1 604-532-1766 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-6PM daily | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=Since 2001. Wine tasting and sales at the winery. They also have a branch in [[Penticton]]. Picnic tables, and interesting information panels by the vineyard. Tasting is limited to five samples of the winery's choice. }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Westward Inn & Suites | alt= | url=https://www.westwardinnandsuites.com/ | email=westwardinn@shaw.ca | address=19682 Fraser Highway | lat=49.11254 | long=-122.67751 | directions=on Fraser Highway at Highway 10 | phone=+1 604-534-9238 | tollfree=+1-800-667-4557 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-02-28 | content= }} == Cope == === Newspaper === * {{Listing|name=Langley Advance Times|url=https://www.langleyadvancetimes.com/|phone=+1 604-533-4157|lastedit=2023-05-31}} === Hospital === * {{listing | name=Langley Memorial Hospital | alt= | url=https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Locations/Langley/langley-memorial-hospital | email= | address=22051 Fraser Hwy | lat=49.09482 | long=-122.6122 | directions= | phone=+1 604-514-6000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Langley Memorial Hospital | wikidata=Q17068624 | lastedit=2023-03-29 | content=Has an emergency department operating 24/7. }} ==Go next== * [[Vancouver]] is 45 minutes drive to the northwest, and offers rich attractions * the regions around Vancouver, such as [[Vancouver eastern suburbs]], [[Vancouver southern suburbs]] and the [[North Shore (British Columbia)|North Shore]], have a lot to offer. {{routebox | image1=BC-1 (TCH).svg | imagesize1=22 | link1=Trans-Canada Highway | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Vancouver]] | minorl1=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Hope (British Columbia)|Hope]] | minorr1=[[Abbotsford]] | image2=BC-10.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Delta (British Columbia)|Delta]] | minorl2=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=ENDS at [[File:BC-1 (TCH).svg|16px|link=Trans-Canada Highway]] | image3=BC-13.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=&thinsp;N | majorl3=ENDS at [[File:BC-1 (TCH).svg|16px|link=Trans-Canada Highway]] | minorl3= | directionr3=S | majorr3=[[Bellingham (Washington)|Bellingham]] | minorr3={{rint|passport}} (cars / trucks) → becomes [[File:WA-539.svg|18px|link=]] → [[Lynden]] | image4=BC-blank.svg | imagesize4=22 | caption4=Golden Ears Bridge | directionl4=&thinsp;N | majorl4=[[Pitt Meadows]]/[[Maple Ridge]] | minorl4= | directionr4=S | majorr4=END | minorr4= }} {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Fraser Valley}} {{geo|49.091855|-122.647247|zoom=12}} l6komop1x6pgqg7ik0yzeqpqq24s64q 5289033 5289008 2026-06-07T10:20:44Z Ikan Kekek 36420 Reverted edits by [[Special:Contributions/~2026-33432-01|~2026-33432-01]] ([[User talk:~2026-33432-01|talk]]) to last version by [[User:OhanaUnited|OhanaUnited]] 5201621 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg|pgname=Langley}} The '''[https://www.tol.ca/ Township of Langley]''' and the '''[https://city.langley.bc.ca City of Langley]''' are nestled together in the [[Fraser Valley]] of [[British Columbia]]. It includes the historical village and National Historic site of Fort Langley on the south bank of the Fraser River. We cover both Langleys in this article. ==Understand== [[File:Fort Langley Community Hall.jpg|thumb|Fort Langley Community Hall]] The Township of Langley runs from the bank of the Fraser River to the [[United States of America|US]] border in the south. To the west is [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], to the east is [[Abbotsford]]. To the north of the river are [[Pitt Meadows]] and [[Maple Ridge]]. Langley is considered the "Birthplace of British Columbia" because Fort Langley (founded 1827 about 3 km from the present fort) was the first capital and first significant non-native settlement in the mainland BC colony. The two jurisdictions are seamless and few locals even understand the political boundaries between the city and the township. * {{listing | name=Langley City Hall | alt= | url=https://city.langley.bc.ca/ | email= | address=20399 Douglas Crescent | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 604-514-2800 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Offers maps and a "Pocket Tourism Guide". }} * {{listing | name=Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce | alt= | url=https://www.langleychamber.com/ | email= | address=#1-5761 Glover Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 604-530-6656 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Offers visitor information by phone. }} The town was used as the filming location for the [[Puget Sound]] town of Port Townsend in [[Washington (state)|Washington]], [[United States]] for the Netflix show ''Dead Boys Detectives''. ==Get in== {{mapframe|49.0975|-122.5813|zoom=11|width=400|height=500}} {{mapshape|wikidata=Q923243,Q1805330}} See [[Vancouver]] for options to get in the Vancouver area by plane, by bus, and by train, and by boat. === By plane === The nearest airport to Langley is a 30-minute drive to the [[Abbotsford]] International Airport ({{IATA|YXX}}), while the Vancouver International Airport ({{IATA|YVR}}) is a 45-minute drive in [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]]. The [[Bellingham (Washington)|Bellingham]] International Airport ({{IATA|BLI}}) is a 45-minute drive (plus border time) across the U.S border. * {{go | name=Langley Municipal Airport (CYNJ) | alt= | url=https://ynj.tol.ca/ | email=manager@langleyairport.bc.ca | address=5385 216th St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 604-534-7330 | tollfree= | fax=+1 604-534-7330 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3915752 | content=A small general-aviation airport with a 2100' x 75' runway. '''[http://www.harbour-air.com/ Harbour Air Seaplanes]''' offers three flights daily from [[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]] harbour. }} === By car === * '''Highway 1A''' (Fraser Highway) and '''the Langley Bypass''' (which becomes '''Highway 10''') are convenient driving east-west routes into Langley city. '''Highway 1''' ([[Trans-Canada Highway]]) runs east-west through the township to the north of the city. * '''Highway 13''' travels north-south between Highway 1 at the north and the United States border to the south. * The '''Golden Ears Bridge''' crosses the Fraser River at Walnut Grove (a Langley Township suburb) and takes you into [[Pitt Meadows]] and [[Maple Ridge]]. ==== Border crossing ==== * {{go | name=Aldergrove - Lynden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.0024 | long=-122.4849 | directions=Langley, BC (Highway 13) - [[Lynden|Lynden, WA]] (WA-539, the Guide Meridian) | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 8AM to midnight | price= | wikipedia=Lynden–Aldergrove Border Crossing | wikidata=Q24190264 | lastedit=2023-08-07 | content=NEXUS lane to United States only. Open to all vehicles. }} === By bus === * {{listing | name=Mountain Man Mike's Bus Service | alt= | url=https://mountainmanmikes.ca/ | email=info@mountainmanmikes.ca | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-778-382-7729 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-19 | content=Twice per week service between [[Kaslo]] and [[Vancouver]] with stops in [[Ainsworth_Hot_Springs-Balfour|Balfour]], [[Nelson_(British_Columbia)|Nelson]], [[Castlegar]], [[Christina Lake]], [[Grand_Forks_(British_Columbia)|Grand Forks]], [[Greenwood (British Columbia)|Greenwood]], Rock Creek, [[Osoyoos]], [[Keremeos]], [[Princeton_(British_Columbia)|Princeton]], [[Manning Provincial Park]], [[Hope_(British_Columbia)|Hope]], [[Chilliwack]], [[Abbotsford]], Langley, and [[New Westminster]]. This service provider also offers a weekly route between Kalso and [[Calgary]] via Nelson. }} ==Get around== Many parts of Langley consist of property on acreage: you will require a car to get around anywhere but central Langley city, which can be walked or biked. ===By public transit=== ==== BC Transit ==== {{listing | name=BC Transit (Central Fraser Valley Transit System) | alt= | url=https://www.bctransit.com/central-fraser-valley/home | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-604-854-3232 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=BC Transit | wikidata=Q4179186 | lastedit=2022-04-06 | content=Operates bus routes in [[Abbotsford]] and [[Mission (British Columbia)|Mission]]. }} * Operates bus route 21 between the Aldergrove area of Langley and Abbotsford. Operates Monday to Friday with numerous trips, and Saturday and Sunday with a number of trips. In Aldergrove it connects with TransLink's bus route 503. * Operates bus route 66 between [[Burnaby]] and [[Chilliwack]] with stops in Langley and Abbotsford. Operates daily with numerous trips. The stop in Langley is at Carvolth Exchange in north Langley. ==== TransLink ==== {{listing | name=TransLink | alt= | url=https://www.translink.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-604-953-3333 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=TransLink (British Columbia) | wikidata=Q1142140 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=The main public transit network in the Vancouver area, including: Bowen Island, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Delta, Langley, Lions Bay, Maple Ridge, New Westminster, North Vancouver, Port Coquitlam, Pitt Meadows, Port Moody, Richmond, Surrey, Vancouver, West Vancouver, and White Rock. Its network includes buses, SkyTrain (rail rapid transit), SeaBus (ferries), West Coast Express (commuter rail), and HandyDART (door-to-door shared-ride service for those who cannot ride public transit without assistance). }} Passengers can pay for fares using Compass Cards ($6 refundable deposit), Compass Tickets, or tap-to-pay using contactless credit cards (only American Express, Mastercard or Visa) or mobile wallets. Passengers using Compass Cards and Compass Tickets pay discounted fares. Passengers can transfer for up to 90 minutes, except if taking West Coast Express, in which case they can transfer for up to 120 minutes. On bus and HandyDART, passengers can also pay in cash, but in that case will not receive change and are not eligible for transfers. Zone based fares apply between Monday and Friday for trips starting before 6:30 pm, if travel involves SkyTrain or SeaBus. Outside of those hours or for travel on only bus or HandyDART, a single zone rate applies. If traveling by West Coast Express, a higher cost zone based fare system applies regardless of time of travel. Children 12 and under can ride for free. People aged 13 to 18, and 65 and older pay discounted concession fares. {| class="wikitable" ! Zones !! Adult !! Concession |- | 1 || {{translink|1}} || {{translink|1c}} |- | 2 || {{translink|2}} || {{translink|2c}} |- | 3 || {{translink|3}} || {{translink|3c}} |- | All buses and Skytrain on weekdays after 6:30PM, holidays, weekends || {{translink|1}} || {{translink|1c}} |} For travel from the airport, take the SkyTrain Canada Line between YVR Airport station and Waterfront station, take SkyTrain Expo Line between Waterfront station and Surrey Central station (trains terminating at King George station), then transfer to a bus traveling toward your destination in Langley. Trips traveling from the airport have an extra $5 per passenger added on top of the zone fare, whereas trips to the airport do not have this added fare. ===== By bus ===== TransLink has only thin coverage of Langley, but it exists. Notable bus routes, all which operate daily include: * 320 - Between Langley Centre and [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] Central station (SkyTrain Expo Line). Travels via Surrey's Cloverdale and Fleetwood neighbourhoods. * 364 - Between Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey and Langley Centre. Travels mostly along 64 Ave. For a portion of the route, it travels along Scott Road, which is the boundary between [[Delta (British Columbia)|Delta]] and Surrey. * 501 - Between Langley Centre and Surrey Central station (SkyTrain Expo Line). Travels via Carvolth Exchange in north Langley. * 502 - Between Langley Centre and Surrey Central station (SkyTrain Expo Line). Travels via Fraser Highway, the most direct path of travel between the two termini on this route. * 503 - Between Aldergrove and Surrey Central station (SkyTrain Expo Line) via Langley Centre. Between Langley Centre and Surrey Central station, it travels along the same route as route 502, but with limited stops. In Aldergrove it connects with BC Transit's bus route 21. * 531 - Between Willowbrook and [[White Rock]] via Langley Centre. * 555 - Between Carvolth Exchange in north Langley and Production Way station (SkyTrain Expo and Millennium Lines) in [[Burnaby]] * 595 - Between Langley Centre and Maple Meadows station (West Coast Express) in [[Maple Ridge]] via Carvolth Exchange in north Langley. === By taxi === * {{Listing|name=Langley Taxi|url=http://www.langleytaxi.ca/|phone=+1 604-530-4444|lastedit=2022-02-28}} * {{Listing|name=Pacific Cabs|url=https://pacificcabs.com/|phone=+1 604-596-6666|lastedit=2022-02-28}} === By ride hailing === There are three [[ride hailing services]] in the city: * {{listing | name=Kabu | alt= | url=https://www.kabu.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Lyft | alt= | url=https://www.lyft.com/rider/cities/vancouver-bc | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lyft | wikidata=Q17077936 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/vancouver/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Uber | wikidata=Q780442 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} ==See== [[File:CanadairCT133SilverStar07A.JPG|thumb|Canadair CT133 SilverStar at the Canadian Museum of Flight]] * {{see | name=Canadian Museum of Flight | alt= | url=http://www.canadianflight.org | email=museum@direct.ca | address=Hangar # 3 - 5333 216th St | lat=49.0994 | long=-122.626 | directions= | phone=+1 604-532-0035 | tollfree= | fax=+1 604 532-0035 | hours=10AM-4PM daily | price=$10 (adult), $7 (students/seniors) | wikipedia=Canadian Museum of Flight | wikidata=Q2935795 | lastedit=2017-01-14 | content=This tiny museum preserves a surprisingly large collection of aircraft significant to Canadian aviation in a corner of Langley airport. The hangar has some smaller planes and displays on the two World Wars and Women in Aviation. Some larger planes are on display outside. }} [[File:FortLangley-TheBigHouse.JPG|thumb|Fort Langley National Historic Site, the Big House]] [[File:FortLangley-ViewFromNorthEastBastion.JPG|thumb|Fort Langley, View from Northeast Bastion]] * {{see | name=Fort Langley National Historic Site | alt= | url=https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/bc/langley | email=fort.langley@pc.gc.ca | address=23433 Mavis Ave | lat=49.1681 | long=-122.572 | directions= | phone=+1 604-513-4777 | tollfree= | fax=+1 604 513-4798 | hours=10AM-5PM | price=Adult $7.80, senior $6.55, children under 18 are free, group and season discounts available | wikipedia=Fort Langley National Historic Site | image=Fort Langley.jpg | wikidata=Q1282806 | lastedit=2019-10-26 | content=The Hudson's Bay Company established their trade operation here on the Fraser River as a transshipment location for European made goods (blankets, metalware, rope, clothing, etc.) destined for interior posts and natural resources (furs, salmon, cranberries, butter, salt meat) to external markets. On November 19, 1858, in the Big House of the fort, Governor James Douglas, with Judge Matthew Bailie Begbie and other dignitaries of the British crown, read the proclamation from Queen Victoria that established the Colony of British Columbia. Today, Fort Langley National Historic Site of Canada helps to tell the story of local fur trade and agricultural pursuits, as well as the colonization story and the ongoing history of the area. In the one original and half-dozen reproduction buildings, there are films, exhibits, and some hands-on demonstrations of blacksmithing and gold-panning. During the summer, there are daily campfires at 7PM with marshmallows and stories. You can take day-long blacksmithing or canoeing adventures. Special events include Canada Day, horse- and ox- and wagons rides, and a historic reenactment dinner. }} * {{see | name=Greater Vancouver Zoo | alt= | url=https://www.gvzoo.com/ | email= | address=5048-264th St | lat=49.0923 | long=-122.487 | directions=Highway 1 to Exit 73, then south | phone=+1 604-856-6825 | tollfree= | hours=May-Sep: daily 9AM-7PM, Oct-Apr: daily 9AM-4PM | price=// Children and seniors $17, student $19, adult $24, train ride $5, parking $6 | wikipedia=Greater Vancouver Zoo | wikidata=Q5600807 | lastedit=2019-10-26 | content=Mid-sized zoo with a range of animals, including lions, tiger, giraffe, zebras, hippo and monkeys. The train ride around the zoo is popular, as are the hippo and giraffe feedings. The distances can be large, so bikes are available for rent or you can bring your own. }} * {{see | name=Toy Traders | alt= | url=https://toytraders.ca/ | email= | address=19880 Langley Bypass | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 604-532-9516 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | lastedit=2026-01-30 | content=Not only is it a large toy store, it's also a toy museum showing the owner's personal collection of vintage toys. }} ==Do== * '''Wine tasting''', as there are several vineyards and wineries in Langley. See "Drink" section for local wineries. * {{do | name=Campbell Valley Regional Park | alt= | url=https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/park/campbell-valley-regional-park | email= | address= | lat=49.0299 | long=-122.6608 | directions=just off of 16 Ave, between 200 St and 208 St | phone=+1 604-530-4983 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Campbell Valley Regional Park | wikidata=Q14874575 | lastedit=2023-07-28 | content=Featuring areas of forest, grasslands, and wetland, the park has 33 km of hiking trails. It has a large equestrian trail that makes a large loop along the perimeter of the park. }} * {{do | name=Krause Berry Farms | alt= | url=https://www.krauseberryfarms.com/ | email=info@krauseberryfarms.com | address=6179 248 Street | lat=49.113413 | long=-122.53987 | directions= | phone=+1 604 856-5757 | tollfree= | hours=Jun-Aug: M-Sa 8AM-8PM, Su & holidays 9AM-6PM; Sep-Oct: W-Su 9AM-5PM; Nov-Dec: Th-Su 10AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=U-pick berry farm, market, bakery, estate winery, and waffle bar. }} * {{do | name=Vancouver Giants Hockey | alt= | url=https://vancouvergiants.com/ | email= | address=7888 200th St | lat=49.146 | long=-122.6663 | directions=at the Langley Events Center | phone=+1 604-444-2687 | tollfree= | hours= | price=$17.50 and up | wikipedia=Vancouver Giants | wikidata=Q2031079 | lastedit=2023-07-17 | content=Vancouver's junior hockey team. Not quite as skilled as the pros at Rogers Arena, but a cheaper and sometimes more entertaining option if you want to catch a hockey game while in town. Games are usually 2-3 teams a week from Oct through April. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster or at the box office. }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Langley Canada Day Celebrations | alt= | url= | email= | address=MacLeod Athletic Park, corner of 56th Avenue and 216 Street | lat=49.106432 | long=-122.625167 | directions=across the street from Langley Airport | phone=+1 604 522-6232 | tollfree= | fax=+1 604-539-9591 | hours=June 30-July 1: 11AM-11PM | price=Free entrance and parking, some activities have a charge | content=This two-day celebration of Canada is held on or near Canada Day, July 1st, each year. It is one of the largest in the province. It is a family-oriented event with stage shows, music, games, static aircraft displays, and more. }} == Learn == * {{Learn|name=Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) - Langley campus|url=https://www.kpu.ca/|address=20901 Langley Bypass|lat=49.10904|long=-122.64546|phone=+1 604-599-2000|wikidata=Q3335261|lastedit=2023-09-24|content=Publicly funded university.}} * {{Learn|name=Trinity Western University (TWU) - Langley campus|url=https://www.twu.ca/|address=22500 University Drive|lat=49.1404|long=-122.6002|phone=+1 604-513-2019|wikidata=Q6569551|lastedit=2023-09-24|content=A private Christian university, it offers undergraduate and graduate programs. The Langley campus occupies 157 acres and is the university's main campus.}} ==Buy== [[File:Main Street, Fort Langley.jpg|thumb|Main Street, Fort Langley]] Langley offers a wide variety of stores offering [[horses|equestrian]] supplies. Being "the horse capital of BC", there exist many places to buy whips, saddles, feed, and other horse (and general livestock) provisions. Other shopping areas in Langley are: * {{buy | name=Downtown Langley | alt= | url=https://www.downtownlangley.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Langley City; around Fraser Hwy between Glover Rd & 200 St | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=Downtown Langley is home to over 500 unique shops, services and restaurants. This pedestrian-oriented shopping area features free parking, and includes historic Innes Corners, trendy McBurney Plaza as well as the Cascades Casino Resort. }} * {{buy | name=Fort Langley | alt= | url=http://www.fortlangleyvillage.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Fort Langley | wikidata=Q905710 | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=Fort Langley has about 80 businesses and its commercial core has a mix of services, restaurants and retail stores. Centred along Glover Road, it's known for its selection of independent businesses and historic character. }} * {{buy | name=Willowbrook Shopping Centre | alt=Willowbrook Mall | url=https://www.shopwillowbrook.com/ | email= | address=19705 Fraser Highway | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Willowbrook Shopping Centre | wikidata=Q8022411 | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=The largest shopping centre in Langley and lies directly across from the city limits of Surrey. Willowbrook has over 150 stores and services. Its anchor stores are Hudson's Bay, H&M, Toys "R" Us, and Sport Chek. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Bacchus Bistro | alt= | url=https://www.chabertonwinery.com/bacchus-bistro/ | email=info@domainedechaberton.com | address=1064 - 216 Street | lat=49.103138 | long=-122.652728 | directions=Located at Domaine de Chaberton Estate Winery, on 216th Street between 16 Ave to the north and 8 Ave to the south | phone=+1 604 530-9694 | tollfree= | fax=+1 604 533-9687 | hours=W Th Su 11:30AM-3PM; F Sa 11:30AM-3PM and 5:30PM-9:30PM; M Tu closed | price=Lunch about $30, dinner about $50 | lastedit=2022-02-28 | content=Authentic French cuisine with fresh ingredients from the Fraser Valley, overlooking the Domaine de Chaberton vineyard. Lunch five days/week, dinners on Friday and Saturday. Reservations recommended. Also hosts parties and receptions. }} * {{eat | name=Ban Chok Dee | alt= | url=https://banchokdee.com/ | email= | address=20563 Douglas Cres | lat=49.103138 | long=-122.652728 | directions= | phone=+1 778-278-3088 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-3PM, 4:30-9PM | price= | lastedit=2022-02-27 | content=Offers delicious authentic Thai cuisine. }} *{{eat | name=Mr. Mike's Steakhouse & Grill | alt= | url=https://mrmikes.ca/ | email= | address=300-20020 Willowbrook Drive | lat=49.116416 | long=-122.667902 | directions= | phone=+1 604-534-1100 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2022-02-28 | content=The revised version of the historic Mr. Mike's West Coast Grill. Now a full-service casual restaurant. The MikeBurgers are exactly as you remember them, however the salad bar is no longer. Try the Shrimp Stuffed Shrooms and see if you can finish the Avalanche MikeBurger: two patties, Mikesauce, bacon, mushrooms, lettuce, onion, and tomato on a toasted French loaf bun. Seating is all first-come, first-served- no reservations. }} * {{eat | name=Outpost Eatery | alt= | url=http://www.thefortwineco.com/visitwinery.html | email=fwcweb@thefortwineco.com | address=26151 84th Ave | lat=49.1550285 | long=-122.4995313 | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-866-921-9463 | fax=+1 604-857-1139 | hours= | price=$5-10 |lastedit=2022-02-28| content=Soups, salads, cheese platters, side dishes. Part of the Fort Wine Company. Reservations accepted. }} * {{eat | name=Sushi Gio | alt= | url=https://sushigio.com/ | email=sushigiolangley@gmail.com | address=20177 88 Ave #1 | lat=49.163121 | long=-122.661997 | directions=Hwy exit 200 St. then get one 88 Ave | phone=+1 604 371-2411 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2022-02-28 | content=This is one of the best sushi restaurants in town. The restaurant is located in the Walnut Grove area and takes reservations and take out. The food is always fresh and the atmosphere is suitable for family outings. }} ==Drink== Though nowhere near as known or as plentiful as in the [[Okanagan]], the Lower Mainland has [[wine|wineries]], many of which are in Langley: * {{drink | name=Backyard Vineyards | alt= | url=https://www.backyardvineyards.ca/ | email= | address=3033 232 Street | lat=49.057063 | long=-122.582381 | directions=on 232 St just south of 29B Ave | phone=+1 604 539-9463 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 11AM-5PM; F-Su 11AM-6PM | price=Tasting $7/person; tour & tasting $15/person | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=Vineyard and winery at this site. Tours at 1PM, 3PM daily (May-Aug). Also offer wine tasting (four samples/person) and sales. }} * {{drink | name=Blackwood Lane Vineyards & Winery | alt= | url=https://www.blackwoodlane.ca/ | email=info@blackwoodlanewinery.com | address=25180 8 Avenue | lat=49.015191 | long=-122.526489 | directions= | phone=+1 604-856-5787 | tollfree= | fax=+1 604-856-5784 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=Makes small quantities of high-quality wines from grapes grown on their 12 acres here and in the Okanagan. They are building a Tuscan-style winery complete with the Fraser Valley's only wine cave. Tastings by appointment. }} * {{drink | name=Domaine de Chaberton Estate Winery tours | alt= | url=https://www.chabertonwinery.com/ | email=info@domainedechaberton.com | address=1064 216 Street | lat=49.02176 | long=-122.623947 | directions=on 216th Street between 16 Ave to the north and 8 Ave to the south | phone= | tollfree=+1-888-332-9463 | fax=+1 604 533-9687 | hours=Tours daily, Feb-Nov at 2PM, 4PM; Dec-Jan at 3PM (weather permitting) | price=Tasting and tours free | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=Home of the Chaberton and Canoe Cove labels, this 55-acre winery was founded in 1975 by Claude and Inge Violet of France. Conventional wisdom in the [[Okanagan]] Valley vineyards was that they were "mad" to found the first winery in the rainy [[Fraser Valley]], but they had found a favourable microclimate. See also the Bacchus Bistro and the wine shop at the winery. Picnic tables and ample parking, fairly large tasting room and a gift shop. }} * {{drink | name=The Fort Wine Company | alt= | url=http://www.thefortwineco.com/ | email=fwcweb@thefortwineco.com | address=26151 84 Avenue | lat=49.155042 | long=-122.499484 | directions= | phone=+1 604-857-1101 | tollfree=+1-866-921-9463 | fax=+1 604-857-1139 | hours=Summer: daily 10AM-7PM; closed Christmas, Boxing Day & New Year's Day | price= | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=A premium fruit winery making table and dessert wines. Free wine tasting, and winery tours (Sunday 1PM and 3PM only). See ''[[#Eat|Eat]]'' for their Outpost Eatery. }} * {{drink | name=Township 7 Vineyards & Winery tasting | alt= | url=https://township7.com/ | email=wine@township7.com | address=21152 16 Avenue | lat=49.031086 | long=-122.63766 | directions=at the corner of 16th Avenue and 212th Street | phone=+1 604-532-1766 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-6PM daily | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-10 | content=Since 2001. Wine tasting and sales at the winery. They also have a branch in [[Penticton]]. Picnic tables, and interesting information panels by the vineyard. Tasting is limited to five samples of the winery's choice. }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Westward Inn & Suites | alt= | url=https://www.westwardinnandsuites.com/ | email=westwardinn@shaw.ca | address=19682 Fraser Highway | lat=49.11254 | long=-122.67751 | directions=on Fraser Highway at Highway 10 | phone=+1 604-534-9238 | tollfree=+1-800-667-4557 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-02-28 | content= }} == Cope == === Newspaper === * {{Listing|name=Langley Advance Times|url=https://www.langleyadvancetimes.com/|phone=+1 604-533-4157|lastedit=2023-05-31}} === Hospital === * {{listing | name=Langley Memorial Hospital | alt= | url=https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Locations/Langley/langley-memorial-hospital | email= | address=22051 Fraser Hwy | lat=49.09482 | long=-122.6122 | directions= | phone=+1 604-514-6000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Langley Memorial Hospital | wikidata=Q17068624 | lastedit=2023-03-29 | content=Has an emergency department operating 24/7. }} ==Go next== * [[Vancouver]] is 45 minutes drive to the northwest, and offers rich attractions * the regions around Vancouver, such as [[Vancouver eastern suburbs]], [[Vancouver southern suburbs]] and the [[North Shore (British Columbia)|North Shore]], have a lot to offer. {{routebox | image1=BC-1 (TCH).svg | imagesize1=22 | link1=Trans-Canada Highway | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Vancouver]] | minorl1=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Hope (British Columbia)|Hope]] | minorr1=[[Abbotsford]] | image2=BC-10.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Delta (British Columbia)|Delta]] | minorl2=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=ENDS at [[File:BC-1 (TCH).svg|16px|link=Trans-Canada Highway]] | image3=BC-13.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=&thinsp;N | majorl3=ENDS at [[File:BC-1 (TCH).svg|16px|link=Trans-Canada Highway]] | minorl3= | directionr3=S | majorr3=[[Bellingham (Washington)|Bellingham]] | minorr3={{rint|passport}} (cars / trucks) → becomes [[File:WA-539.svg|18px|link=]] → [[Lynden]] | image4=BC-blank.svg | imagesize4=22 | caption4=Golden Ears Bridge | directionl4=&thinsp;N | majorl4=[[Pitt Meadows]]/[[Maple Ridge]] | minorl4= | directionr4=S | majorr4=END | minorr4= }} {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Fraser Valley}} {{geo|49.091855|-122.647247|zoom=12}} tdgu2bgpu7ixk03kfdeirithg20gd43 0 19213 5288883 5281290 2026-06-06T15:14:16Z Madeliine 11a 2419035 /* Shopping */ /* Get around */ and some other changes 5288883 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Riga_and_Daugava_banner.jpg}} '''Latvia''' ([[Latvian phrasebook|Latvian]]: ''Latvija'') is one of the three [[Baltic states]] in [[Europe]]. The biggest travel destination in the country is the capital [[Riga]], whose Old Town is a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site]]. There are many other great places to see, both urban and rural. Latvia's unspoilt sea coast is a 500-km-long unique biome, mainly consisting of empty beaches, white soft sand, and dunes covered with pine trees. Forests cover approximately half of Latvia's territory and are home to many nature trails, nature parks and wildlife preserves. The city of [[Liepāja]] with its magnificent beach and the unique formerly secret military neighbourhood of Karosta, [[Kuldīga]], recognized in 2023 as a UNESCO world heritage site, with Europe's widest waterfall, and [[Cēsis]] with its medieval castle ruins are just some of the various sights. ==Regions== There are various official and unofficial ways how the country's divided in regions. Most commonly, Vidzeme, Kurzeme, Zemgale and Latgale are separated as the major regions. Riga, which is otherwise considered part of Vidzeme, is often split off in a separate region either by city boundaries or by the boundaries of the Riga Planning Region, which includes a larger surrounding area. Although the social and cultural differences between the regions of Latvia are not large, they still exist. An example of that is Latgale region, which was separated from the rest of Latvian regions for several centuries by border, culturally, religiously and language-wise. Most locals will assume the city of Riga along with the suburbs is being talked about instead of the greater official planning region when the Riga Region is mentioned. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Latvia regions map.png | regionmaptext=The administrative planning regions of Latvia | regionmapsize=400px | region1name=[[Riga region]] | region1color=#9ce187 | region1description=The central region houses around half of the Latvian population. It boasts white-sand beaches grown with pine trees and foresty dunes. | region2name=[[Vidzeme]] | region2color=#c2a7e1 | region2description=The north-central Vidzeme region features the longest Latvian river - Gauja, the highest point in Latvia - Gaiziņkalns, the biggest cave in Latvia - Gūtmaņala, the Gauja National Park and other attractions. | region3name=[[Kurzeme]] | region3color=#e18792 | region3description=The western Kurzeme region has direct access to the Baltic sea. Kurzeme allows visitors to experience local heritage: old fishermen's villages and culture of the Livonian people, and a Viking settlement. | region4name=[[Zemgale]] | region4color=#87bce1 | region4description=The south-central Zemgale region is the flattest region of Latvia, historically known for being a great region for all agricultural needs. | region5name=[[Latgale]] | region5color=#c9bd9f | region5description=The eastern Latgale region is famed for its lakes and beautiful nature. Once lively and the most diverse part of Latvia, now it became quite a peripheral part of Latvia and few tourists. A mix of Latgalian, Russian and Jewish cultures is at the heart of this region. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#9ce187|title=[[Riga region]]|wikidata=Q2600641}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c2a7e1|title=[[Vidzeme]]|wikidata=Q745303}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#e18792|title=[[Kurzeme]]|wikidata=Q185072}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#87bce1|title=[[Zemgale]]|wikidata=Q215389}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c9bd9f|title=[[Latgale]]|wikidata=Q208113}} ==Cities== [[File:Riga - Roland's Statue.jpg|thumb|St. Roland's Statue, Old Town, Riga]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Riga]]|wikidata=Q1773}} &ndash; The capital city of Latvia and the European Capital of Culture in 2014 with a long history. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sigulda]]|wikidata=Q465698}} &ndash; A town in central Latvia with two interesting castles and historic points of interest. Probably, the most popular destination outside of Riga for foreign tourists, also due to its closeness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cēsis]]|wikidata=Q107582}} &ndash; One of the country's oldest towns. It has an impressive castle complex of Livonian Order origin, a charming city centre with some cobblestoned streets, and historic wooden buildings. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Jūrmala]]|wikidata=Q178382}} &ndash; A popular holiday and sea resort town with wooden houses just west of Riga, which claims to have the longest beach in Northern Europe. Very popular with Russian and other eastern European tourists. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Daugavpils]]|wikidata=Q80021}} &ndash; The second largest city in Latvia, after Riga. It is a delightfully charming, spacious, green city with a large fortress, which has withstood many many wars and remains virtually unchanged since its construction in the 19th century. The city is also known for being predominantly Russian. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ventspils]]|wikidata=Q104036}} &ndash; A modern and artistic sea resort city in the north-west part of Latvia, has many things to see, and is one of the tidiest places in the region. A long-stretching beach and recreational park provide everything for a relaxing holiday week or weekend. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Liepāja]]|wikidata=Q167668}} &ndash; Named "the city of wind", and the southwestern most city of Latvia. Famous for its sandy beach, numerous music events. It features modern architecture and a long history along with the formerly secret Soviet military neighbourhood of Karosta (literally: ''War Port''). * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuldīga]]|wikidata=Q155281}} &ndash; The capital of Duchy of Courland, Venice of Latvia, with unique and wooden architecture, red-tile roofs, bridges, cobbled streets, the widest widest waterfall ledge in Europe, and nearby the longest underground (sand) cave labyrinth in the Baltics. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Madona]]|wikidata=Q586048}} &ndash; A scenic town surrounded by hills, forests and lakes, and a winter sports centre. ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ķemeri National Park]]|wikidata=Q1395739}} – forests and mires. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Slīteres National Park]]|wikidata=Q1643261}} – coastal national park on the Liv Coast. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=EU-Latvia.svg}} ===History=== In the ancient and medieval world, the territory of today's Latvia was known for its particular significance to commerce. The famous route from the Vikings to the Greeks mentioned in ancient chronicles stretched from [[Scandinavia]] through Latvian territory, along the river Daugava, to the Kievan Rus and Byzantine Empire. In the 12th century, German traders arrived, bringing with them missionaries who attempted to convert the pagan Finno-Ugric and Baltic tribes to the Christian faith. The Germans founded Riga in 1201, making it the largest and most powerful city on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea during the Late Middle Ages. After gaining independence in 1918, Latvia achieved considerable results in social development, economy, industry and agriculture. On 16 June 1940, Soviet foreign minister Vyacheslav Molotov presented the Latvian representative in Moscow an ultimatum, accusing Latvia of violating a pact and conspiring against the Soviet Union. The Soviet forces invaded Latvia soon after and "People's Governments" were formed to provide a legal backing for a complete takeover, followed by Latvia being incorporated into the Soviet Union on 5 August 1940. Nazi Germany occupied the country the following year, ruling Latvia until the Soviet Red Army reoccupied the country in 1944. Both Nazi Germany and the USSR under Stalin were extremely brutal and murderous during their rule: the Nazis and their local collaborators murdered over 90,000 Latvians, including 75,000 Latvian Jews, while the Soviets, also having local collaborators, threw well over 90,000 Latvians into Siberian Gulags, from which many never returned, and had many thousands arrested locally, with many being shot or tortured. During the time of the Iron Curtain, when Latvia was a province of the Soviet Union, the concentration of heavy industry was enormous. All contacts with the West were strongly regulated during that period and everyone who was found to possibly have any contact with anyone abroad could be subject to accusations of conspiracy against the state. The Baltic region had the reputation of having the highest literacy rate and being the most urbanized in the Soviet Union. During the Soviet era, the Russian minority (less than 10% of the population before occupation) was supplemented by heavy immigration from other Soviet republics, especially Russia. After 1990 there was a desire by Latvians to get rid of everything Russian: only Latvian is an official language, and 60% of school classes have to be held in Latvian even in Russian-medium schools. While many ethnic Russians have emigrated, many remain and they present a unique case of citizenship law only mirrored by the situation in [[Estonia]]. People who are not descended from people who were citizens before the Soviet occupation and have not been nationalised are officially classed as "non-citizens". This is a category distinct from statelessness: they are given special passports and they have the unlimited right to reside in Latvia but can't vote in elections or hold certain civil service jobs. Especially older "non-citizens" tend to hold on to their weird limbo status, both because of unwillingness to learn Latvian and be subjected to the nationalisation test, and because a Latvian non-citizen passport allows visa-free travel to Russia whereas a Latvian citizen passport does not. The Russian minority is a strong factor in the culture and politics of the country, and Daugavpils, the second biggest city, has an ethnic Russian majority. ===Economy=== Latvia's economy grew rapidly after independence in 1991. Later the 2008 global recession and the financial crisis hit Latvia hard, bringing severe economic contraction and high unemployment rates and it took until 2017 for the country's economy to recover fully. Most Latvians work in the services sector. The Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 caused the loss of a key trading partner, and GDP growth has slowed. ===Climate=== The best time to travel to Latvia is during Summer, from June up to early-September, as it is warm during that period (around 15°C to 20°C) and various local foods are available. While the start of December is usually mild with temperatures staying above freezing, snowfall can be expected during the Winter season, January and February, and the temperatures can drop to around -30°C for short periods of time. Springs and autumns are fairly mild. ===Geography=== [[File:Mežs_2010.gada_28.augustā,_Tomes_pagasts,_Ķeguma_novads,_Latvia_-_panoramio.jpg|thumb|Forest in Tomes parish]] Latvia is generally flat and does not feature high mountains. The highest point in Latvia is Gaizinkalns, peaking at {{m|312}} above sea level, just west of the town of [[Madona]] in central Latvia. Half of Latvia is covered with forests that are abundant in wildlife. There are many small lakes scattered around the country, especially in the south-eastern Latgale region. Valleys carved by rivers can be seen with sections featuring sand cliffs on their banks. As heavy industry declined in the country it has the effect of an increasingly clean ecological environment. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.latvia.travel/en Official visitor information site] (in English). Can also be found in [https://www.latvia.travel/et Estonian], [https://www.latvia.travel/lt Lithuanian] and [https://www.latvia.travel/ru Russian] among other languages. ==Talk== {{seealso|Latvian phrasebook}} {{infobox|Language is a complex political issue|The Russian-speaking minority is quite protective of their language and culture, and often complains that the Latvian government is intentionally forcing a completely foreign culture upon them. The government denies these claims and some Latvian politicians argue that Russia encourages such sentiments. Some ethnic Latvians may find it offensive to be addressed in Russian due to its association with the Soviet Union. Given this difficult situation, you may face bad attitudes from some people for using the wrong language. If this ever happens, mention that you're not from Latvia; locals' attitudes will improve immediately.}} '''Latvian''' (''latviešu valoda'') is the only official language in Latvia. Natively spoken by around 1.5 million people in Latvia and abroad (Ireland, United Kingdom, Canada, USA, Russia, Brazil and Australia), it belongs to the Baltic language group of Indo-European languages. It is related to Lithuanian but is different enough to be hard to grasp even for native Lithuanian speakers. '''Latgalian''' (''latgalīšu volūda''), spoken by roughly 10%, is closely related, officially regarded as a variant of Latvian, with equal legal status but still marginalized and not used in state institutions. The third language with official status is '''Livonian''' (''līvõ kēļ''), which became extinct in 2013 with the death of the last native speaker. There are about 40 reported speakers and 210 having reported some knowledge of the language. Latvian uses the Latin script, expanded with diacritics; there are 33 letters in the alphabet, which is mostly phonetic, making pronunciation of Latvian generally easy to learn. The stress is almost always placed at the start of the word – on the first syllable. However, there are various complicated rules for some letters such as ''e'' and ''o'', and there may be different words that are spelled the same, with meaning changed with pronunciation. Some words are borrowed from other languages and are fairly easy to comprehend (such as ''restorāns''), but others have different roots. The language has complex grammar rules and is considered to be among the more difficult languages to learn. Should you decide to learn some Latvian to communicate with the locals, you should be prepared that some of the locals will only answer you in Russian, if they will answer you at all. This behaviour is not necessarily malicious, but could be because the person is much more proficient in the Russian language than in the Latvian language. If you also speak Russian, the choice is easy; otherwise, speak English - insisting on speaking Latvian will for certain create an awkward situation. People working in public services are required by law to speak Latvian. Latvia is home to a large Slavic (Russian/Ukrainian/Belarusian/Polish) minority. The younger generation of these people typically speak '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''' as their native language and Latvian as their second language, though older people who grew up under Soviet rule usually do not speak any Latvian. In some pockets of Latvia, Russian is more commonly spoken than Latvian. Apart from being the native language of a minority group, Russian is widely spoken at large as a second language, but its use is gradually declining. Generally speaking, the older generation of Latvians is more likely to be proficient in Russian, as Russian was compulsory during the Soviet period. There is a very good chance of finding Russian literature of any age in their original language in Latvia. When the country gained independence, the study of Russian in schools was replaced with '''English''' as a second language, meaning that younger Latvians are more likely to speak the latter. English is widely spoken by the younger generation that grew up after independence, but the generations that grew up under Soviet rule typically do not speak any English. Just like in the rest of the [[Baltics]], '''German''' is a popular foreign language. Although it's not as common as English, those working in tourism know enough of the language to get by. ==Get in== {{VisaRestriction|Admission of Russian citizens are refused unless for diplomatic or visiting spouses. |lastedit=2025 }} ===Visas=== {{Schengen}} ===By plane=== [[File:Riga Airport.JPG|thumb|Riga International Airport (RIX)]] '''[http://www.riga-airport.com/en Riga International Airport]''' ({{IATA|RIX}}) is the only airport in Latvia with regular international flights and is 10 km southwest of Riga. [http://saraksti.rigassatiksme.lv/index.html#bus/22/b-a/en Bus 22] operates on a route from the airport to the centre of Riga (and vice versa), a ticket from the driver costs {{EUR|2}}. Alternatively, you can buy yellow e-tickets (for 1, 3 or 5 days) from the Narvesen kiosk just outside the airport. Various other methods of transport are available on-site such as taxis. Alternatively, you can fly to [[Kaunas]] in [[Lithuania]] and take the [http://easytravel.lv/ Flybus]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to Riga. ===By train=== The Estonian company '''[https://elron.ee/en Elron]''' operates one daily train each way between [[Tallinn]], [[Estonia]] and [[Riga]] (via [[Tartu]] and [[Valga]]). Elron also operates two daily trains from Tallinn to Valga, from where trains operated by the Latvian company '''[https://www.vivi.lv/en/ Vivi]''' connect, going to [[Riga]]. The Lithuanian company '''[https://ltglink.lt/en/vilnius-riga-en LTG Link]''' operates a daily train between [[Vilnius]] and Riga. In addition, the Rail Baltica project, underway as of 2024, intends to create in much more frequent rail services between the Baltic countries and onwards to Central Europe. Because of the Russian war on Ukraine, services to and from Russia and Belarus have been suspended. If you travel by train via [[Daugavpils]] on your way to or from [[Riga]], you might need to stay in Daugavpils overnight for the connection. For that reason, you may be better off taking a bus or a plane when travelling between Riga and Vilnius. ===By bus=== There are international bus connections to anywhere in Europe, including frequent service to [[Tallinn]] and [[Tartu]] in [[Estonia]], and [[Vilnius]] and [[Kaunas]] in [[Lithuania]]. Notable bus route operators: * '''[http://ecolines.net/en/ Ecolines]''' * '''[http://www.luxexpress.eu/en Eurolines Lux Express]''' offers free coffee and more legroom than Simple Express service * '''[http://easytravel.lv/ Flybus]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' connects Riga and [[Kaunas]] and [[Vilnius]] * '''[https://global.flixbus.com/ FlixBus]''' has buses from [[Tallinn]], [[Warsaw]], [[Vilnius]] and [[Kaunas]] to Riga [[File:Romantika (laev).jpg|thumb|A Tallink ferry]] ===By boat=== {{infobox|A tip on onboard purchases|Even though all ferries have a shop on board, and they may label their offerings as "tax-free", you might want to save your purchases for the homeward trip. Many of the offerings most likely have a lower price in Latvia, especially if they are locally produced. Note down the prices from the ferry shop and compare them to prices in Latvia.}} * The '''[https://www.tallinksilja.com/stockholm-riga Tallink Silja]''' line between [[Stockholm]], [[Sweden]] and [[Riga]] is suspended as of spring 2023. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/ventspils-nynashamn Stena Line]''' operates ferries between [[Nynäshamn]], [[Sweden]] and [[Ventspils]] and between [[Travemünde]], [[Germany]] and [[Liepāja]]. One-way travel time is 8½ hours from Sweden and 27 hours from Germany. Stena Line offers regular one-way and roundtrip tickets, with or without a car. A pedestrian roundtrip on the line from Sweden begin at €34, with bicycle at €40 for a roundtrip. A recliner in a silent room is €10 extra for both ways. Pets are welcome, but a pet cabin is required without extra charge to a regular cabin. ====Via Lithuania==== * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS]''' - operates ferries between [[Karlshamn]], [[Sweden]] and [[Klaipeda]], [[Lithuania]]. An alternative route if you come from [[Denmark]] or the southernmost part of Sweden. Klaipėda is just 50 km away from the Latvian border when going north on the A13 national road. One-way travel time is 14 or 16 hours depending on departure. DFDS offers regular one-way and roundtrip tickets, with or without a car. A pedestrian roundtrip begin at €86; with bicycle at €106 for a roundtrip. ====By yacht==== {{see also|Boating on the Baltic Sea}} For those travelling by private boat, regular marinas are very few and still in their infancy (2019). * [[Kuiviži]], small town in the Bay of Riga, at the mouth of the Krišupe; [https://www.kapteinuosta.lv/en Kapteiņu osta]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} * [[Riga]], the capital city of [[Latvia]]; the [https://www.pilsetasjahtklubs.lv/en.html City Yacht Club] is right across the old town on the Daugava river * [[Jūrmala]], [http://marinajurmala.lv Marina Jurmala]{{Dead link|date=February 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is on the Lielupe river. * [[Ventspils]] on the west coast, [http://www.ventspilsmarina.lv Ventspils Marina] * [[Pāvilosta]], small town on the west coast, at the mouth of the Saka; [http://www.pavilostamarina.lv/en/ Pāvilosta Marina]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} It might be possible to arrange something with the authorities of other ports: [[Salacgrīva]], [[Skulte]], [[Saulkrasti]], [[Engure]], [[Mērsrags]], [[Roja]], and [[Liepāja]]. ===By car=== The road known as [[Via Baltica]] links [[Warsaw]], [[Poland]] and [[Tallinn]], [[Estonia]] going through [[Kaunas]], [[Lithuania]] and [[Riga]]. Coming from the west, you might want to skip driving a thousand kilometres through Poland and Lithuania – unless you specifically want to visit them – by taking an overnight ferry from Germany or Sweden to Latvia or Lithuania. The price of the ferry voyage is comparable to the cost of driving. ====Driving licence==== If you have a driving licence issued by another country in the European Union, you can use it continuously in Latvia just like in the issuing country. According to the law, residents of other countries have to obtain a Latvian driver's licence after having lived 6 months in Latvia, however, this only involves a theoretical exam, which can be taken in English, German, French or Russian. ==Get around== In Latvian, the word for street (as in street names) is ''iela''. An example is Brīvības iela which is translated as Freedom street. ===By car=== [[File:Latvia road sign 724.svg|thumb|Standard speed limits in Latvia]] {{User:Soshial/maps/Latvia}} National and regional roads in Latvia have been through a process of update since the accession to the European Union. All national roads are paved and are signposted in red with numbers from A1 to A15. Most of the national roads are also part of the European route grid of roads. 84% of the regional roads are paved and they are signposted in blue with numbers from P1 to P133. 78% of local roads are gravel roads and they are signposted in grey with numbers from V1 to V1489 — on maps, but not necessarily on the roads. The only motorway in Latvia is a 12-km stretch of the A7 around Ķekava, opened in 2023. Some national roads around Rīga are built to expressway standards and some have higher speed limits (110 km/h, indicated by signs) but are not classified as motorways. All gas stations around the country are self-service and available 24/7. '''[https://www.circlek.lv/ Cirkle K]''', '''[https://www.neste.lv/ Neste]''' and '''[https://www.viada.lv/ Viada]''' operate gas stations all over the country, and there are many local companies as well. Diesel fuel and gasoline with octane ratings of 95 and 98 are widespread. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG, ''autogāze'') is quite common as well. Electric cars are not widespread as the network of charging stations has not yet developed to be viable for casual, everyday usage. The two main providers of public electric charging for vehicles are '''[https://e-mobi.lv/en e-mobi]''' and '''[https://elektrumveikals.lv/en/home/electric-car-charging/public-charging Elektrum]'''. International car rental companies are represented and there are cheaper rental companies as well. There are many offices around Riga, including some at Riga Airport. You can see the list at [http://www.riga-airport.com/en/main/passengers/services/cafes-bars/car-rental the website of Riga International Airport]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. [https://citybee.lv/en/ CityBee] offers smartphone app based car rental. Standard speed limits for motorcycles, cars and vans without trailers with a total weight of less than 7.5 t are 50 km/h on urban roads, 90 km/h on non-urban roads and 80 km/h on non-urban gravel roads — unless otherwise stated by traffic signs. Traffic enforcement cameras (''fotoradars'') are signposted and placed all over the country. It is common practice that local (slower) speed limits are only signed where they begin and not where they end. Even though it is permitted to drive 80 km/h on gravel roads, it is very uncomfortable to do so. The gravel also varies and on some stretches it can be a very bumpy ride and very dusty too when the weather is dry. When planning for your trip ask someone who knows whether the shortest route is gravel or not. Sometimes it can be faster to drive a longer trip on asphalted road compared to a shorter route on gravel road. In Latvia, a lit green arrow traffic light, no matter in what direction it shows, does not give ''right of way'', which is different from other European countries. The green arrow signal allows passage only when the way is clear, without having to wait for a proper green signal. Trams (streetcars) have ''right of way'' and a fine may be given for obstruction of their passage. It is not allowed to pass a tram when it stands still at a route stop where people has to cross the street from the sidewalk. Finding a parking place is quite easy around Latvia, except in the capital [[Riga]], where fees apply in the city centre. There is disc parking in some towns around Latvia. The driving culture in Latvia is quite aggressive and hazardous. Almost none of the national and regional roads outside metropolitan Riga have emergency stopping lanes (shoulders) along the road. You will quickly realise that you perhaps are the only one that adheres to the standard speed limits, many heavy trucks drive 90 km/h. Some drivers with potent cars insist on overtaking at the slightest chance of squeezing through, even though there is no clear view of incoming traffic. There is significantly less traffic during evenings and nights. [[File:Kāpu zonas ceļa zīme.jpg|thumb|"Dune zone" road sign. Entry is prohibited for any motorized vehicle.]] It is prohibited to use any motorized vehicle in the territory of dune zones (usually 200m-1 km from sea shore). ====Legal requirements==== Headlights must be turned on during driving all year round. Tyres intended for use in winter are compulsory from December 1 to March 1. The use of studded tyres is prohibited from May 1 to October 1. The use of safety belts is compulsory for both drivers and passengers. Children not taller than 150 cm must be transported in an appropriate child seat or on an appropriate support. Drivers are not allowed to use a mobile phone while driving unless a hands-free system is used. The permissible alcohol level is up to 0.5 ‰, but up to 0,2‰ for novices having a driving license for less than 2 years. The car's registration papers (''tehniskā pase'') and driver's license must be always available when driving. ===By train=== [[File:Latvia_railways_frequency_of_commuter_trains_2016.svg|thumb|Frequency of commuter trains as of 2016]] [[File:Riga Train Station, Latvia.jpg|thumb|Riga Train Station]] The train network is fairly solid in Latvia, connecting larger cities. The rolling stock is partly of Soviet origin, partly electric Škoda trains, produced in Czechia and purchased in the 2020s. The passenger cars on domestic lines are of the open-compartment type, whereas on the international lines of the closed-compartment type. The trains are a reliable way of getting around, delays are uncommon. Domestic lines that run daily are the ones between Riga and Skulte, [[Sigulda]], Krustpils, [[Jelgava]] and [[Tukums]] (via [[Jūrmala]]). Other destinations run less frequent. The west coast of Latvia is rather poorly serviced with only one departure a week between Riga and [[Liepāja]]. Domestic train service is provided by the company '''[https://www.vivi.lv/en/ Vivi]'''. Timetables with pricing information are also available at '''[http://www.1188.lv/en/transport 1188.lv]'''. Trains can be cheaper than other methods of transportation and you generally do not need to be worried about them being packed, except possibly some peak days during the summer season. There are several stations in Riga on both sides of the Daugava river, the central station (''Rīgas Centrālā stacija'' or ''Rīgas-Pasažieru'') is the one next to the old town. Jūrmala has several stations as well. The station in Majori is the one you need when going to the beaches and the Jūrmala city centre. Ķemeri station in western Jūrmala is the closest to the national park. [[Jēkabpils]] is just across the Daugava river when you get off at the station in Krustpils. You can buy a train ticket before boarding the train at the station or you can buy one on the train from the personnel (but buying on the train costs €0.50 more). Some smaller stations' ticket offices may open late and close early or be closed for breaks during the day, generally due to the lack of passengers departing from said stations at those times. A timetable of trains will be available by the ticket office. Tickets can also be purchased online or on Pasažieru vilciens or Mobilly phone app. If you have an online ticket you just need to show the QR code to the train personnel. There is no seat reservation. There is a [http://www.banitis.lv/eng/index.htm narrow gauge railway]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} operating between the cities of [[Gulbene]] and [[Alūksne]] in the north-east of Latvia. Along the route, there are various tourist-orientated points of interest. ===By tram=== The three biggest cities (Riga, Daugavpils and Liepāja) each have their own tram systems. While they date to the turn of the century (Riga and Liepāja) or the immediate post-WW2 era (Daugavpils) they have been modernised and well maintained since independence and there are even new low-floor trams on order to replace the older rolling stock. ===By bus=== Riga and its metro area has an extensive transit network consisting of 50 bus routes, 22 trolleybus routes and 8 night bus routes operared by [http://www.rigassatiksme.lv Rīgas satiksme]. The route numbering plans for tram, trolleybus and bus routes are not integrated and both busses and trolleybuses might look the same, which means you might mistake a trolleybus for a bus or vice versa. The routes with the same number usually don't tend to overlap. Tickets are purchasable in ticket machines, stores, mobile applications, such as [https://www.rigassatiksme.lv/lv/biletes/bilesu-klasts-un-cenas-1/koda-bilete/ an official application]or [https://www.mobilly.lv/en/welcome-to-mobilly/ Mobilly], and from bus 22 drivers. The other largest cities also usually have their own bus networks, such as [https://satiksme.jurmala.lv/ Jūrmala], [https://satiksme.daugavpils.lv/ Daugavpils], [http://www.liepajastransports.lv Liepāja], [https://www.ventspilsreiss.lv Ventspils], [https://www.jap.lv/ Jelgava], [http://www.rezeknessatiksme.lv/ Rēzekne], [https://www.jekabpilsap.lv/ Jēkabpils], [https://vtu-valmiera.lv/ Valmiera], and [https://visittalsi.com/informacijai/pilsetas-autobusi/ Talsi]. Valka has a bus route 3 also serving [[Valga]] in Estonia. Other cities and towns might also have city transit routes integrated into regional bus network and have 4-digit route number. Other bus routes are served by various private companies that differ between regions, unlike for trains. The bus connections stretch all around the country and getting around using buses is usually fairly simple. The best way to receive information about buses in Latvia is from the inquiries service [http://www.1188.lv/en/transport 1188.lv], from the [http://www.autoosta.lv/ Autoosta Website]{{Dead link|date=March 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, or at a local bus station. Express buses connect major cities and serve with a reduced count of stops along the way and can save time. Tickets can be bought at ticket offices, on the buses when boarding, or online. If buying tickets in advance, that can usually be done up to 10 days prior to departure. Luggage can be placed in the trunk of the bus, which might even be required depending on the bus company and the size of the bag. You might be charged extra and receive an additional ticket or voucher for the luggage, depending on the policies of the company. If you plan on leaving Riga during Friday or Saturday, you might find the buses to be crowded as travelling by bus is the most common method of travelling between cities in many regions and many head out of Riga for the weekend. If you buy a ticket from the ticket office at the bus station you are departing from beforehand during this period, you can board the bus before others. Some bus operators provide WiFi access on board, which are usually free of charge and provide good coverage throughout the whole trip. ===By taxi=== Ride-hailing is available in Latvia. * {{go | name=Bolt | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-07-09 | content=The most anticipated provider. Includes many towns. }} * [https://forus.eu/lv/ '''Forus Taxi'''] (smartphone app) Officially registered taxis can be recognized by the vehicle registration plate with black text on a yellow background, whereas ordinary cars have registration plates with a white background. ===By boat=== Yachting is for the very well off Latvians and regular marinas are very few and still in their infancy. The '''[https://www.pilsetasjahtklubs.lv/en.html City Yacht Club]''' in [[Riga]] is right across the old town on the Daugava river. '''[http://marinajurmala.lv/ Marina Jurmala]{{Dead link|date=February 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' in [[Jūrmala]] is on the Lielupe river. '''[http://www.pavilostamarina.lv/en/ Pāvilosta Marina]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' and '''[http://www.ventspilsmarina.lv/ Ventspils Marina]''' are both on the Latvian west coast. It might also be possible to arrange something with the authorities of other ports. There is no public transport by boat between Latvian ports. If you are going from [[Riga]] to [[Jūrmala]] during the summer, a very romantic way is to travel by river cruise boats: mainly two-deck motor boats with place for around 60 to 100 people. They usually depart from Riga centre in the morning and return in the afternoon. There are cruises in the Riga Canal, passing through the Daugava river. Ask in the tourism information centre for more details and pricing. ===By bike=== Cycling is generally not the safest method of getting around the country, especially at night. There are not many cycling paths around the country so you may find yourself biking close to cars very often. When in cities, many locals cycle along pedestrian paths to avoid the traffic. Some sidewalks around Riga have markings splitting off one side for cyclists and the other for pedestrians, but this is often not the case in other cities around the country. You will probably encounter people who do not respect the markings. Cycle in the early morning to avoid the majority of traffic. The main rush hour when heavier traffic can be expected is from 17:00-20:00. Your bike should be equipped with reflectors and front and rear lights. Wear reflective clothing, especially if cycling after dark. An interesting option may be to travel on a guided bike tour. Companies offering cycling tours in the region include [http://utracks.com UTracks]. The international [http://velovilnius.lt/balticcycle/ BaltiCCycle] project may provide you helpful information regarding cycling in the region ===By thumb=== {{seealso|Hitchhiking}} Hitchhiking in Latvia is generally a good way to get around. You might encounter some difficulties if your destination is not on the way to a larger city. Your main difficulty may be getting around [[Riga]] as there is no clear by-pass road. The amount of local traffic can make hitching very difficult as locals will usually stop at Riga. Drivers may be hesitant to pick up tourists that they expect to only speak English, which many Latvians do not understand. It is harder than other eastern European countries to hitch-hike in Latvia. Hence, success is very volatile. You might be lucky within 10 min (along the larger roads), or you might just wait 1½ hr without anyone stopping, especially in remote areas with less traffic. Do not count on getting picked up eventually, but be sure to know when the last bus departs. ===By plane=== There are no domestic flights within Latvia. ===On foot and navigation=== Latvia has many picturesque 1-3 day hiking trails and is very popular with cyclists. For reliable (offline) maps of the region and comprehensive map information, consult [https://www.openstreetmap.org/ OpenStreetMap], which is also used by this travel guide, and by many mobile Apps like [http://osmand.net/ OsmAnd] (complex with many add-ons) and [https://organicmaps.app/ Organic Maps] (easy but limited). ==See== [[File:Cesis castle ruins (Latvia).jpg|thumb|Cēsis castle ruins, Vidzeme Region]] [[File:Kuldigas tilts.JPG|thumb|Bridge over Venta in Kuldīga]] [[File:Jelgava aerial view.jpg|thumb|Jelgava]] [[File:12 Kokneses-pils-no-pret-kr-29sep07.jpg|thumb|Koknese castle ruins]] ===Latvia's top tourist attractions=== * '''Old City Riga and Riga Town Hall Square''', [[Riga]], Architecture and History * '''Sigulda Castles''', [[Sigulda]], Architecture and Nature * '''Cēsis Medieval Castle''', [[Cēsis]], Architecture and History * '''Jūrmala Beach''', [[Jūrmala]], Recreational * '''Basilica of the Assumption''', [[Latgale#See|Latgale]], Architecture and Heritage * '''Rundale Palace''', [[Zemgale#See|Zemgale]], Architecture and Museum * '''Ventspils Beach''', [[Ventspils]], Recreational * '''The Great Ķemeri Moorland''', [[Riga region#See|Riga region]], Nature * '''Cape Kolka''', [[Kurzeme#See|Kurzeme]], Nature * '''Narrow Gauge Railway''', [[Alūksne]], Recreational ===Description=== When thinking of Europe, Latvia is usually not one of the first countries to come to people's mind. Being buried under the big iron no-go blanket of the Soviet Union until regaining its independence in 1991, Latvia is just now being discovered by larger tourist crowds to be surprised by the charms of this Baltic country. Latvia's dynamic capital, the historic city of '''[[Riga]]''', is a great place to spend some time. It is the home to the beautiful '''Old Town''', full of magnificent Jugendstil architecture, winding cobblestoned streets and many steeples, while yet staying a modern, metropolitan city with a vibrant nightlife and a strong economic impulse, to the extent that the rise of the modern buildings is threatening the Old Town's World Heritage listing. Riga's vibe moves many travellers, perhaps due to the strong contrasts between the old and the new or maybe because of the seemingly painless blend of Latvian and Russian cultures, as almost half of the city's inhabitants are of Russian origin. You can get a sense of the city by wandering through the various large parks all around the city, strolling around the historic neighborhoods and kicking back in one of the cafés or outdoor terraces. Among Riga's notable sights are '''Riga Cathedral''', '''St. Peter's Church''' and the lively '''[http://www.rct.lv/en/ Central Market]'''. See [[Riga#See]] as well for some more ideas. 30 minutes from Riga is one of the best and multicultural sea resort towns of Latvia, '''[[Jūrmala]]'''. It can be found with beautiful beaches, houses, promenade and the nice '''Dzintari Forest Park'''. Although Riga is by far the country's main tourist destination, there are a bunch of other places worth visiting. 40&nbsp;km to the east from the capital lies '''[[Sigulda]]''', with several castles such as the nicely reconstructed '''Turaida Castle''', and the deep '''Gūtmanis Cave'''. The town is in the Gauja valley and has been called the "Switzerland of Latvia" for its steep cliffs and banks. It's known for its winter sports opportunities and provides a great chance to explore the fine nature around the town. Further northeast towards the Estonian border, '''[[Cēsis]]''', one of the country's oldest towns, can be found. It has a charming city centre with cobblestoned streets, historic wooden buildings and an impressive castle complex. The coastal city of '''[[Liepāja]]''' is known to Latvians as "the city where the wind was born", due to the sea breeze it constantly gets. It has a nice beach and a charming town centre with a colourful mixture of architectural styles ranging from wooden houses and spacious parks to Art Nouveau and concrete Soviet-era apartment buildings. Liepāja's '''Karosta''' neighbourhood was built in the late 19th century as a naval base for Tsar Alexander III and was later used by the Soviet Baltic Fleet. Its splendid seaside panoramas, former military prison and fortress are preserved now making it a popular tourist sight. Besides Liepāja, '''[[Ventspils]]''', further north, is a modern sea resort town with an arty touch and well worth a summer vacation. From here and around '''Cape Kolka''', the '''Livonian Coast''', a remote and isolated coast landscape with wild beaches, sand dunes and lighthouses can be found. There are also some nice lighthouses worth visiting between Ventspils and Liepāja. '''[[Kuldīga]]''', southeast of Ventspils, is the home of Europe's widest waterfall ledge as a part of '''Venta Rapid'''. Even though only two metres high, its size makes it a nice sight. Together with the historic town, it is worth exploring. '''[[Jelgava]]''', on the way from the Lithuanian border towards Riga, has two fine sights in baroque style, the '''Rundāle Palace''' less than 40 km southeast of the city and the '''Jelgava Palace''' in the city centre. Around 40&nbsp;km north-east of the second largest city in the country, '''[[Daugavpils]]''', is the colossal white '''Basilica of the Assumption'''. It is the most important Catholic church in Latvia and is locally also known as Aglona Basilica, as Aglona is the name of the village it is located in. There are many interesting '''old castles''' maintained around Latvia. The Association of Latvian Castles, Palaces and Manors (Latvian: ''Latvijas Piļu un muižu asociācija'') has information along with photos on their [http://www.pilis.lv/en/ website]. Sometimes the castles may be reserved for private events. ==Do== ===Events=== Most event tickets and schedules are available at [http://www.bilesuparadize.lv bilesuparadize.lv] ====Traditional celebrations==== {{infobox|Latvian Song and Dance Festival|[[File:Latvian Song festival 2008.jpg|300px|center]] One of the key cultural events in Latvia, which started in 1873 as a singing festival. Now the festival involves live performances of choirs, folk dance groups, brass bands etc. Competitions, exhibitions, concerts, parades and joint concerts are some of the cultural events. Riga is full of people wearing traditional costumes and cheerful people from all of Latvia. It is held every five years; so the next is due to be held in July 2028. }} * '''New Year's Eve''' ''Jaunā Gada svētki'' (31 December–1 January) — Most locals celebrate with their families, but you are likely to see events taking place on the streets as well. * '''Easter''' (''Lieldienas'') — Annually in April, you can usually find events in town centres, such as traditional Easter celebrations with swings and egg fights. * '''Summer solstice celebration''' (''Vasaras saulgrieži'') Traditional celebrations are held in many places throughout Latvia. The most popular one takes place in [[Sigulda#Do|Sigulda]]. * '''Jāņi''' or '''Līgo''', June 23-24, across Latvia. Latvians celebrate the summer solstice with Jāņi — the midsummer festival. Before the celebration, flea markets are held in many places. * '''White Night''' (''Baltā nakts''), in [[Rīga]], annually, in the beginning of September. ====Historical==== * '''Count of May''' (''Maija Grāfs''), in [[Rīga]], annually in the middle of May, has medieval tournaments, witch trial, traditional dances. * '''Medieval Day at Cēsis Castle''' (''Cēsu Pils Viduslaiku diena'') in [[Cēsis]], is held annually, on the first Saturday of August. * '''Semigallians Days in Tervete''' (''Zemgaļu svētki Tērvetē'') is held annually, on the second Saturday of August, 30 km SWvof [[Jelgava#Do|Jelgava]]. * '''Seeburg Viking Festival''' ''Dzīvās Vēstures festivāls'' in Grobiņa, close to [[Liepāja]], is held annually, last Sunday of May. The west coast of Latvia has Viking heritage dating to 9th century. ====Music==== * '''Latvian Song and Dance Festival''' (''Latvian Vispārējie latviešu Dziesmu un Deju svētki'') in [[Riga#Festivals and events|Riga]], is an annual song and dance festival in July, with an even larger festival every 5 years. One of the key cultural events in Latvia, which started in 1873 as a singing festival. * '''Festival of World Music''' (''Ārpasaules mūzika Tiguļkalnā festivāls''), in [[Talsi]], annually, beginning of June. National and foreign folk music performed on the highest hill in Talsi. * '''Riga Rhythms Festival''' (''Rīgas Ritmi festivāls'') in [[Riga#Festivals and events|Riga]] takes place annually, at the end of June/start of July. * '''Positivus festival''' in [[Riga region#Do|Salacgrīva]] takes place annually, mid-July. It is Latvia's largest music festival, featuring various international artists in a relaxed environment. * '''Saulkrasti Jazz Festival''' in [[Riga region#Do|Saulkrasti]], annually, at the end of July. Latvian and foreign musicians perform by the sea. * '''Bauska Country Music Festival''' in [[Bauska#Do|Bauska]], annually, for 2 days, mid-July. European and U.S. country musicians perform. * '''Laba Daba''' near [[Līgatnes#Do|Līgatnes]] novads, next held in August 2026. The "good nature" festival of music and outdoor activities. ====Various==== * '''International Ice Sculpture Festival''' in [[Jelgava]], annually, at the start of February. * '''International Baltic Ballet Festival''' in [[Riga#Festivals and events|Riga]] in April. * '''Latvia Beerfest''' in [[Riga#Festivals and events|Riga]], annually, at the end of Mayus the largest international beer festival in the Baltic states. * '''Cēsis Art Festival''' (''Mākslas festivāls Cēsis'') in [[Cēsis]], annually, July-August. ===Sports and outdoor activities=== There are many different winter sports opportunities such as snowboarding, cross country skiing, downhill skiing etc. Major skiing facilities include [https://ramkalni.com/ Rāmkalni], [http://www.baili.lv/index.php?lp=_enziema Baiļi] and [http://www.zviedrucepure.lv/winter_en.php Zviedru Cepure]. Some of the slopes are open late at night, but accessing them by public transport can sometimes be a challenge or turn out to be flat out impossible. After Easter, as it gets warmer and rivers start to get more water from melting snow, kayaking down the rivers is one of the favourite activities for younger people. Also, marathons are quite popular in Latvia. More entertaining marathons like ''Jāņu naked marathon'' (Jāņu nakts pliko skrējiens) take place in [[Kuldīga]] on Jāņi day. * '''Lattelecom Marathon''' (''Lattelecom Rīgas maratons'') in [[Riga#Sports|Riga]] in the middle of May is the biggest sport marathon held since 2007 in Latvia. * '''Playground''' in Ropaži, 40-min drive from [[Riga#Sports|Riga]] in Mid-July is a youth festival of sports on water, land and air (e.g. longboarding, SUP, wakeboarding, hydro-cycles, mountain bikes, slack line). * '''Cycling Festival and Cycling Night''' (''Kuldīgas Velofestivāls'') held at the end of May in [[Kuldīga]] is the largest non-commercial bicycle marathon in Latvia. ===Nature=== [[File:Gauja National Park Latvia.jpg|thumb|Gauja National Park]] Due to the low population density, large parts of Latvia are covered by forests and wetlands. There are four national parks and many nature preserves/parks in place around the country that can be explored, hiked, and camped in by nature-loving travellers. The largest national park, and major tourist attraction with its popular towns and cities, is the densely forested [[Vidzeme|Gauja National Park]] in the Gauja river valley in the [[Vidzeme]] region. Remote, lonely and mysterious lies the [[Riga region|Great Ķemeri Moorland]] inside the Ķemeri National Park of the [[Riga region]], with a planked walkway and observation platform. Another, but less touristy national park is the [[Latgale|Rāzna National Park]] in the [[Latgale]] region. Last but not least, the Slitere National Park protects the stunning [[Kurzeme|Cape Kolka]] in the [[Kurzeme]] region, where the Gulf of Riga meets the Baltic Sea. This allows for: * '''Bird watching''' &ndash; Very popular, since Latvia is an important autumn stopping grounds for migratory birds in Europe. * '''Trekking''' &ndash; Many opportunities at various difficulty levels exist, starting with short walks in old parks up to several day camping and boating trips. Due to the general openness of Latvians towards nature, camping is possible virtually anywhere (except for private ground), even inside of national parks. * '''Mushroom hunting''' &ndash; This seems to be the secret national sport of Latvians. Taking the train through the countryside or just walking in the forests, you will notice bunches of people all over the place, especially in September, looking for mushrooms and blue berries. Even in the remotest region, when you thought, this would be a good place for a naked dip in the Baltic Sea, beware, there could always be people in the woods collecting tons of what nature provides them with. * '''Stroll around''' &ndash; This is popular near [[Sigulda]] and in the [[Vidzeme]] region in general, especially in the autumn when the leaves of the trees take on different shades of colour, turning red and yellow. ===Beach activities=== [[File:Garciema Beach with Pine Trees.jpg|thumb|400px|Pine tree sand beach near Garciems (Garciema Pludmale)]] Latvia has one of the longest '''sand beaches''' in Europe. The sea generally has a very slow slope. In July and August the water is warm enough for swimming. One of the best beaches is the coast southwards from Liepāja because is by the open sea, not the gulf as by Riga, meaning it receives cleaner water, brighter sand and there are not as many people there due to it not being very close to massively populated areas. The salt level in the sea is fairly low and you may not even need to wash after swimming due to that. When the air temperature rises to 30°C, the water temperature still stays around 20°C, which makes it very refreshing after a long session of sunbathing. ===Spas=== Latvia has various ''spas'' that are an excellent way to relax. Although the popular holiday resort town of '''[[Jūrmala]]''' can sometimes be a bit crowded, it offers some of the best options as well as a fine beach. ===Cultural heritage=== Latvia is full of places where you can see and experience the cultural heritage by for example participating in traditional food making & tasting and listening to authentic folk songs. The Latvian rural tourism association ''[http://www.celotajs.lv/en Lauku ceļotājs]'' published a Latvian and Estonian cultural heritage map with the English title of "Worth Seeing" in cooperation with the Estonian rural tourism association ''Eesti Maaturism''. This map contains useful information about cultural heritage sites with practical information such as about accommodation sites, with preference for rural tourism. The map can be downloaded online or obtained from a Lauku ceļotājs office in Riga. ==Buy== {{Exchange rate euros}} ===Money=== {{Euro}} '''[https://www.bank.lv/en/ Latvijas Banka]''' (The Latvian National Bank) is the only place you can get commemorative €2 coins at nominal value and exchange euro banknotes to smaller or larger denomination euro banknotes without having to pay a fee. This can be done at the branch in Riga. Latvijas Banka's [https://www.bank.lv/en/about-us/contacts/cashier-s-office cashier's office in Riga] also exchanges Latvian lats issued 1993 to 2013 at a fixed rate against euro. '''Tax free''' stores have their signs clearly displayed. ATMs are widely available throughout Latvia, including in Riga International Airport and even in many small towns. Banks will accept '''traveller's cheques''' with a fee, usually equal to or greater than 1% of the amount exchanged or a flat €10. ===ISIC=== If you are an EU student, bring your ISIC. Many places (museums, bus, etc.) in Latvia have great discounts for EU students with an ISIC. ===Tipping=== The tipping culture of Latvians is generally fairly reserved — usually rounding up the bill (around 5-10%) is enough, but it is not expected. Make sure to check your receipt, as some (but few) establishments may automatically include a tip in the bill as service charge. Tips is ''dzeramnauda'' (drink money) in Latvian. ===Shopping=== [[File:Colours of Baltic Amber.jpg|thumbnail|Examples of Baltic amber]] * '''Amber''' is sold in most souvenir shops. If you are lucky, some can sometimes be found on the Baltic Sea shore after a storm. Be careful looking for amber on beaches in western Latvia - the sea near Liepāja is polluted with phosphorus, which looks exactly the same, but can catch fire after drying out. * '''Smoked (black) ceramics''' in the Latgale region * '''Silver jewellery''' * '''Pirts''' (Latvian style sauna) items: Fragrant oils, honey and herb based massage creams, felt caps for sauna, intended to protect the proteins of hair in the extreme heat, and various other items. * '''Mittens with ornaments''': Hand-made, representing traditional culture. * '''Wool products''': Indoors slippers and shoes, vests, jackets, hats, etc. * '''Dark (rye) bread''' (''Rupjmaize'') gives more energy than the common white (wheat) bread. Best bought fresh and not stored for overly long periods of time. * '''[http://www.lb.lv/en/ Riga Black Balsam]''' (''Rīgas Melnais balzams'') is a traditional Latvian herbal liqueur made using many natural ingredients. The original recipe of Abraham Kunze, a druggist, was said to have cured mysterious illness of visiting Catherine the Great in 1755. * '''Bee products''': Honey of various kinds, such as with nuts, bee pollen, propolis and beeswax candles are just some of the various local products that can be purchased. * '''Laima''' is the leading sweets producer in Latvia. Products are available in almost all grocery and convenience stores all around the country, with specialized [http://www.laima.lv/en/contacts/shop-network/?shops Laima stores]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} in the larger cities. * [https://skriveru.com/en/index '''Skrīveru'''] produces the popular soft fudge Gotiņa and other related products. They are available in almost all grocery and convenience stores all around the country. Speciality shops are open mostly from 08:00 to 18:00 on weekdays, 08:00 to 16:00 on Saturdays and closed on Sundays. Grocery shops and supermarkets are open every day. Some close at 20:00 while others, especially larger supermarkets, close at later times such as 24:00. Convenience stores, such as Narvesen, are usually open 24/7. [http://www.aibe.lv/lv/veikali Aibe], [https://www.lidl.lv/ Lidl], [https://www.maxima.lv/veikalu-kedes Maxima], [https://mego.lv/kontakti Mego], [https://www.rimi.lv/veikali Rimi] and [https://www.toppartika.lv/veikali/ top!] have shops and supermarkets all over Latvia. Also there are [https://www.circlek.lv/station-search Circle K], [https://www.kool.lv/ Kool], [https://narvesen.lv/kontakti/ Narvesen], [https://www.rimi.lv/veikali Rimi express] and [https://www.virsi.lv/lv/privatpersonam/uzpildes-stacijas Virši] convenience stores. Many of the good offers are only available with either an app or a customer card. The Rimi customer card is known to be available to foreigners, the others have not been tested. All that is needed to register a Rimi customer card is a mobile phone number where text messages can be received to confirm the registration. The physical customer card is sold for €1 in the stores. The Rimi customer card can also be used in Rimi stores outside of Latvia. ==Eat== Latvian cuisine is typical of the Baltic region and, in general, of northern countries, and especially similar to Finnish cuisine (see [[Nordic cuisine]]). It's high in butter and fat while staying low on spices except for black pepper, dill or grains/seeds, such as caraway seeds. If you are from the Mediterranean, you might find the food rather bland, but if you come from England or the Midwestern U.S., you will probably not have any trouble getting used to most of the dishes. Latvian cuisine originated from the peasant culture and is strongly based on crops that grow in Latvian maritime, temperate climate. Latvian cuisine offers plenty of varieties of bread and milk products, which are staples. Pork products, potatoes, rye or wheat, oats, peas, beets, cabbage are the staples. Meat, especially pork, features in most main meal dishes. Sometimes even some meatless dishes can be cooked using bacon fat. But fish also is commonly consumed due to Latvia's location on the east coast of the Baltic Sea and Livonian heritage: smoked and raw fish are quite common. {{Moreinfo|cuisine of Kurzeme and Livonians|Kurzeme#Eat{{!}}Kurzeme}} === Meals === Contemporary Latvians usually eat three meals a day. Breakfast is normally light and usually consists of sandwiches or an omelette, with a drink, often milk. Lunch is eaten from 11:00 to 15:00, and tends to be the main meal of the day; as such it can include a variety of foods, and sometimes also soup as a starter and a dessert. Supper is the last meal of the day, with some choosing to eat another large meal. Consumption of ready-made or frozen meals is now common. === Type of places === It is important to keep in mind that in Latvia the whole concept and meaning of words '''cafeteria''' (''kafejnīca''), '''canteen''' (''ēdnīca'') and '''restaurant''' (''restorāns'') is different compared to that in other countries. A kafejnīca (cafeteria) is not just a coffee shop and usually serves all kinds of meals that would be expected from a restaurant with the difference being that in a kafejnīca is a lower class food place where you will usually have no table service and have less service in general. An ēdnīca (canteen) will refer to a canteen for schools, universities, factories and the likes. They are usually very cheap and can sometimes have limited access. A restorāns (restaurant) is generally considered a highbrow facility, while it is similar to a kafejnīca, the standards of service and culture for a restorāns are much higher. The line between being a kafejnīca and a restorāns can be very thin in some instances. In the open air markets of Rīga and other cities and towns, local fruits, vegetables and mushrooms can be purchased. Examples are freshly picked wild strawberries and blueberries from local forests, big strawberries, apples and rhubarb pies. Keep in mind that, of course, these are mainly available during the summer and fall seasons. === Meat meals === '''Karbonāde''' (pork schnitzel), '''karbonāde ar kaulu''' (grilled pork chops) and '''cūkas stilbs''' (pork knuckle) are all-time favourites. === Side-dishes === '''Kartupeļi''' (potatoes) are served with everything and they're usually either boiled, fried, boiled and then fried or mashed. Sometimes '''griķi''' (boiled buckwheat) is eaten instead of potatoes - it's very tasty with '''skābais krējums''' (sour cream). '''Kāposti''' (cabbage) also plays a major role in most Latvian meals. Sometimes it's served cold as a salad or hot as a side dish like '''skābie kāposti''' (sour kraut). '''Pelēkie zirņi''' (grey peas) is another side dish worth trying: big, brownish-grey round peas are boiled and then fried with bacon and usually served with kefir or sour cream. === Milk products === [[image:Rēzeknes Piena konservu kombināta biezpiena izstrādājumi.jpg|300px|thumb|An assortment of Latvian cheese products]] Latvia is much richer in milk products than other Western countries. '''Biezpiens''' (which is ''cottage cheese''), '''skābais krējums''' (sour cream), '''kefīrs''' and a lot of varieties cheeses with different flavours. A cheese similar to smoked gouda, but softer, is the cheapest and, arguably, tastiest variety. There are various tastes available for purchase in most grocery stores. A Latvian specialty is the [http://www.milk.lv/en/products/curd-snacks '''biezpiena sieriņš''']{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} which is a quark with a sweet taste (the most popular manufacturers of the snack are ''Kārums'' and ''Baltais''). A traditional Latvian cheese that is in the picture to the right, is '''Jāņu siers''' (caraway cheese); this is traditionally served during the celebration of Jāņi or midsummer. === Soups === Soups are commonly made with vegetables and broth or milk. Frikadeļu zupa (meatball soup), noodle soup, '''zirņu zupa''' (pea soup), '''biešu zupa''' (beetroot soup), sorrel soup and nettle soup are usually consumed by Latvians. There is a special cold beetroot soup ('''aukstā biešu zupa''') that can be prepared in various ways and is made to suit a warm summer day. === Sweets === The most traditional and exotic Latvian dish is '''maizes zupa''' (literally "bread soup"), which is the sweet soup made from rye bread and fruits. Also, the already mentioned '''biezpiena sieriņš''' is quite sweet and tasty. '''Zefīrs''' is a soft marshmallow-ish type of sweet. '''Rabarberu pirāgs''' (rhubarb cake) is really worth trying. Two main local sweets manufacturers '''Laima''' and '''Skrīveru Saldumi''' are well known and they offer a variety of sweets ranging from chocolate bars of various kinds, to candies, to marmalades, fruits in chocolate, biscuits and more. It comes with glazing and without, in various tastes. A caramel sweet named '''gotiņa''' (translated as ''little cow'') is worth a try. These two companies sell some of their sweets in nice gift packages, which may be handy to bring souvenirs home. === Breads === Latvian dark '''(rye) bread''' is heavy and flavourful and goes well with hearty Latvian meals such as pea soup, potatoes and schnitzels. It is believed to be healthier than the white bread. '''Rupjmaize''' is a dark bread made from rye, and is considered a national staple and should be tried. '''Saldskābā maize''' is a bread made from a mixture of rye and wheat. '''Pīrādziņi''' are buns filled with bacon and onion. A classical display of Latvian cuisine. '''Kliņģeris''' is a sweet pretzel-shaped bread that is usually served as a dessert on special occasions, such as name day. === Traditional dishes === If you want to try some really traditional dishes, then try these: * boiled potatoes with quark * oat and pea kissels * '''Ķīselis'''. Thickened, stewed fruits (usually cherry or rhubarb). Served for dessert. * grey peas with salted pork fat (fatback) * '''Siļķe ar biezpienu'''. Herring with cottage cheese. * '''siļķu pudiņš''' (casserole made from herring and boiled potatoes) * '''sklandrausis''' (or '''sklandu rausis''') is a traditional dish in Latvian cuisine which has a Livonian origin; it's a sweet pie, made of rye dough and filled with potato and carrot paste and seasoned with a caraway * '''asins pankūkas''' (pancakes made from blood) * '''maizes zupa''' (sweet bread soup) * cold soups (served when it's hot outside) === For vegetarians and vegans === Fruits and vegetable of this region are mostly organic, because they are often low efficiency home-grown produce. === Other === Some other noteworthy foods: * '''Buckwheat''' (''Griķi''). Eaten as the main course. * '''Sauerkraut''' (''Skābēti kāposti''). * '''Smoked cheese''' (''Kūpināts siers''). Goes very well with wine. * '''Eel''' (''Zutis''). * '''Cutlet''' (''Kotlete''). * '''Chanterelle sauce''' (''Gaileņu mērce''). A sauce from the edible chanterelles in sour cream. Usually served with potatoes. ==Drink== [[File:Riga Black Balsam.jpg|thumb|Riga Black Balsam, local herb liqueur]] Beer (''alus'') is generally the alcoholic beverage of choice for most Latvians. Aldaris and Līvu are the main large breweries in Latvia, but local breweries such as Užavas, Bauskas and Piebalgas exist all around the country and should not be forgotten. You are also suggested to try the locally distilled Riga Black Balsam (Rīgas Melnais balzams). It's an infusion of various herbs, roots and spices, making it a good home remedy for the common cold. By itself it is fairly strong - 45% alcohol by volume - and can be taken by adding a touch of it to flavor your tea, as a few spoons to lace your coffee or mixed in various cocktails. Even though Latvia is fairly far out north, grapes can still be successfully grown for making wine, although '''wine''' production in Latvia generally happens in small quantities, there are some local wineries and vineyards. ==Sleep== Although you might not find plenty of 5 star hotels all around Latvia, you will find comfortable places to stay for reasonable prices. There are many '''hotels''' to choose from and the prices generally start with €30 outside of Riga and €60 in Riga. A small network of '''[http://hostellinglatvia.com/pages/hostels youth hostels]{{Dead link|date=December 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' also exists. Dormitory rooms are around €10-15 while single and double rooms are €30 and above. So-called '''guest houses''' or '''country houses''', some on farms, are a great place to stay at the countryside. They usually cost much less than hotels and are of much better quality than hostels due to the limited number of guests and the personalized service. Such houses are usually run by families and will come with full amenities with some even following the hotel star ratings. These usually provide many recreational activities such as the Latvian popular sauna (''pirts'') and horseback rides. You can ask your hosts regarding popular attractions available nearby, what sights are worth visiting and whether some events are taking place at that time that they would suggest visiting. Keep in mind, you will not be able to simply "drop in" usually and will be required to plan ahead, contacting the guest house in question a day or few before arrival. This can depend on the specific place. Guest houses can generally be found fairly frequently throughout the countryside and are often listed on tourist booklets. Latvian rural tourism association, ''[https://celotajs.lv/en Lauku ceļotājs]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'' has published catalogs and maps that list various types of accommodation mixed with content such as cultural heritage sites and nature parks. The publications can be downloaded online or in an association office in Riga. Accommodations may give a '''discount,''' if you book with them directly (e.g. phone or their website) instead of using online middle-men services. This is due to the reason that most accommodations in Latvia can be booked without credit card anyway. So, there is no real guarantee that someone does turn up. Just that via phone owners are at least not stuck with an online fee without receiving the room rent. === Wild camping === '''Camping''' in natural parks and reserves, and on vegetated sand dunes (usually around 200m-1km from the seaside) is strictly prohibited unless posted signs say otherwise. Around half of Latvian forests are government-owned, and camping there is legal at all times throughout the year, but areas where campfires are permitted are limited. For a map of such public forests [https://www.lvmgeo.lv/en/maps Latvian State Forest agency website] or in the designated app. Most rural land is private, but camping on it is usually acceptable, but it is always a good idea to ask for a permission from the land owner as you can be declined the right to stay on privately owned land even if for a single night; however, most people are understanding and will gladly let you camp. Keep in mind that staying very close to someone's home or staying at the same place for more than two days is generally considered bad manners. Follow your common sense in general. There can be free campsites that are indicated accordingly, especially in the national parks. Commercial campgrounds operated by small businesses are also becoming more popular around Latvia. Some even have wooden installations with roof, saving you the tent to carry. However, it is hard to make them out. As of 2021, there is a law that allows passage and picking mushrooms, berries, nuts and weeds (but not camping) in any forested land, be it private or state-owned. Passage is allowed along any river or lake (4 meters wide strip) on private properties. ==Work== Finding work is not a complicated task, especially if you are a citizen of another EU country, however it is worth keeping in mind that salaries are much lower compared to those in most other EU countries. Job advertisements are often posted in Latvian newspapers such as [http://www.diena.lv/ Diena] (on Tuesday and Saturday editions). Most listings are in Latvian, with some in English, Russian, German or French. Most people use [https://algaskalkulators.com online salary calculator] to calculate net salary amount after taxes. For information about obtaining a residence permit, please see [http://www.pmlp.gov.lv/en/home/services/residence-permits/ The Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs] (''Pilsonības un migrācijas lietu pārvalde''). ==Stay safe== It is generally safe to travel around Latvia on your own, although some petty crime exists. If travelling by bike, watch out for bicycle theft. Cyclists are a small minority in Latvian traffic, and dedicated bike lanes are rare. It is common practice that bikes drive on the pavement in larger cities. If travelling by car, try not to leave valuable things in plain sight in your car. Stay alert when driving on smaller roads, especially through forests, as wild animals may wander around. It is particularly important to keep that in mind during the night. Many Latvian drivers enjoy speeding and the traffic can often flow much faster than the laws allow. If travelling by foot, take care when crossing the roads as many Latvian drivers can be fairly reckless. It is considered bad mannered to consume alcoholic beverages in public, when not in bars, restaurants etc. Some places you might be fined when consuming alcoholic beverages out of a non-concealed bottle. Drunken behaviour like for example urinating in public will also get you a fine, or a night in jail. Local informational web-sites for tourists claim that, in terms of safety, there is almost no difference between big cities and country areas. Although it is true that anywhere in Latvia one is never too far from a town or a city, seeking help in case of emergency may be somewhat more difficult in the countryside (for foreign tourists), as few people speak English there. This is somewhat balanced by the fact that even then locals are quite friendly and ready to help. When visiting bars and restaurants, especially in [[Riga]], check out the prices before ordering and follow your bill to ensure no extra fees are silently added. Beware the [[common scams]], use your common sense. There are reports of scammers striking up random conversations and inviting tourists to visit their "favourite club" or "favourite bar", often leading to the mafia robbing the tourists with the police reportedly unhelpful to those scammed. As a result of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, expressing support for Russia is '''illegal''' in Latvia, and the government has set up a hotline for people to report anyone heard expressing pro-Russia sentiments. ===Swimming=== {{see also|Water safety}} Always adhere to inscriptions and flags on sea beaches, which might prohibit swimming on a specific day or in specific weather. The sea can sometimes be quite deceiving: Northern currents can bring very cold water (even 4–5°C in July) to Latvian coasts on a hot day; the cold water can cause shock in the body and can end tragically. It is very dangerous to swim close to piers even in calm weather — sea currents, hitting the pier, form whirlpools that even a strong swimmer might not get out of. Also, there is unreasonably high death toll, caused by swimming in lakes and rivers during summer and winter. Adhere to good advice when swimming. ===Emergency numbers=== * '''112''' — the common emergency number, just like in other EU countries * '''110''' — state police * '''113''' — ambulance * '''114''' — natural gas related emergencies ==Stay healthy== You can turn to any '''doctor or hospital''' at any time during your stay. Depending on the circumstances, you may need to pay a fee for receiving urgent care. In a sparsely-inhabited, remote area, it may be difficult to obtain medical care due to the low number of air ambulance helicopters in the country. Having a first aid kit around during those times is a good idea. The '''112''' (emergency service number) operators will be able to assist you in Latvian, English and Russian and will be able to either dispatch a team to you or connect you to the appropriate emergency services, if required. Doctors usually are able to speak fluent Latvian and Russian. Some may not have good English skills. This mostly depends on the region and the age of the doctor. You are suggested to bring your own medicine, if you require it, as there are few drugs that are available without a prescription. Many doctors take undisclosed fees in the form of gifts from the patients ranging from a box of chocolates to raw cash. This is usually due to patients recognizing doctors receive low wages and feel the urge of expressing their gratitude. While this is made illegal by local law, it is estimated that 1 in 4 doctors has taken or is taking such donations when seeing patients. You should seek immediate medical attention if bitten by a '''snake, a domestic or a wild animal'''. Snakes are not venomous in Latvia with the exception of the European adder. The common adder is not generally aggressive unless startled and feels like it must defend itself. The toxicity of the venom is relatively low, but you should seek professional medical care as soon as possible regardless of that. Bites by animals, such as dogs and cats, can carry the risk of rabies and you should seek medical care as soon as possible. Mosquito bites do not carry any risk of disease, just causing irritation of the skin. Common sense is to resist scratching the itch. Mosquitoes are generally active during the Summer season and are not around during the colder Winter months at all. '''Ticks''' exist in Latvia and are most active from May to September. They are mostly located in brushwood areas and forests, but can sometimes even be found in town parks. Upon discovering that you have been bitten by a tick, medical attention should be sought. Ticks carry the risk of tick-borne encephalitis (can be quite common; vaccination is possible before the season) and Lyme disease (less common; must be treated in a timely and adequate manner to avoid disabling symptoms). '''Tap water''' is generally safe to drink. However, many locals, especially in larger cities, still prefer to either boil the water before drinking or simply buy bottled water from stores instead. ==Respect== Latvians in general are fairly reserved and generally respect others' personal space, for example, Latvians do not usually greet strangers unless introduced by someone. As with many countries in Europe, inquiring about someone's '''salary''' or talking about your own is uncommon and not recommended. Similarly, personal, political, or religious '''convictions''' are no-go areas until you're better acquainted with someone. Littering is considered bad manners and is against the law. Offenders may be fined. It is considered polite in Latvian culture to hold a door open for someone, let others board a bus or a train first etc. This applies to men letting women go first in particular. [[File:Laimas krusts Lielvardes josta.jpg|thumb|upright|Swastika as a common element of souvenir scarfs]] The swastika symbol (Latvian: ''ugunskrusts'' or ''pērkonkrusts'', "fire cross" or "thunder cross") is a common ornament in embroideries in Latvian folk costumes and contemporary souvenirs and was considered a pagan religious symbol for centuries. It is supposed to bring luck, energy and fire. There is no connection of this symbol to Nazi Germany, and any attempts to hint at one will be considered offensive. You should be careful when talking to Latvians '''about politics and history''', especially about the [[Soviet Union]]. As Latvia became a Soviet republic after [[World War II]], many Latvians, especially of the older generations, have strong opinions about the topic. There is an annual ceremony in March commemorating the veterans of the '''Latvian Legion'''; while it fought as part of the German Waffen-SS (its Latvian members having mostly been drafted by the occupiers), its role in fighting the Soviet occupation is generally seen as more important. The '''legal status of ethnic Russians''' in Latvia is also a sensitive issue, as a lot of them are stateless permanent residents, and the Latvian government requires them to pass a Latvian language test to be eligible for citizenship. Many ethnic Russians regard this as discriminatory, while fair amount of ethnic Latvians regard them as illegal immigrants who moved to Latvia under Soviet occupation, and insist that the government is being exceedingly generous in even allowing them to remain in Latvia in the first place. Many ethnic Russians, especially older generations, get their news from state-controlled Russian media. This means they to a large extent share [[Russia#Sensitive_issues|the sensitive issues that prevail in Russia]]. ==Connect== ===Telephone === {| class="wikitable" style="float: right; width:35%;" |- ! ! Bite ! LMT ! ZZ ! Tele2 |- ! 5G | style="color:black; background:#ffff90; text-align:center" | [https://www.bite.lv/lv/parklajums 3 cities] | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | [https://karte.lmt.lv/ all big cities] | style="color:black; background:#F99; text-align:center" | not yet | style="color:black; background:#F99; text-align:center" | not yet |- ! Tethering | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | yes | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | yes | style="text-align:center" | unknown | style="text-align:center" | unknown |- ! unlimited data | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | yes | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | yes | style="text-align:center" | unknown | style="text-align:center" | unknown |- ! eSIM | style="color:black; background:#ffff90; text-align:center" | [https://www.bite.lv/lv/esim smart watches only] | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | [https://www.lmt.lv/lv/esim yes] | style="color:black; background:#F99; text-align:center" | no | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | [https://www.tele2.lv/esim/ yes] |- ! VoLTE | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | since 2022 | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | since 2021 | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | since 2023 | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | since 2023 |} The country code for Latvia is '''+371'''. If you plan to stay in Latvia for more than a couple of days, it may be cheaper to buy a local SIM card including voice, text and data. Prepaid SIM cards and separate renewal vouchers can be bought in almost all gas stations, kiosks and supermarkets. All operators are generally similar in their pricing and offered services. eSIM is not widespread yet. There are only 4 operators (listed alphabetically): * '''[https://www.bite.lv/lv/tarifu-plani Bite]''' (no English) * '''[https://lmt.lv/en/main LMT]''' (not fully in English) * '''[https://www.tele2.lv/tarifi/ Tele2]''' (no English) ** '''[https://zeltazivtina.lv/en/ Zelta Zivtiņa, ZZ]''' (subbrand of Tele2; has English) Tele2 and Bite have a network sharing agreement, gradually merging their networks in Latvia and Lithuania. If you plan to stay in Latvia for several months, then it is definitely cheaper and more convenient to get a contract (post-paid service). You can get a contract with truly unlimited internet traffic for {{EUR|22|when=2020-12-01}} – no speed curtail with heavy use – and unlimited domestic "normal" calls and SMS. There are at least 2 operators that provide unlimited internet on weekly basis for {{EUR|3}}/week (without speed curtail), which is extremely flexible and cheap. For an unknown reason, Latvian mobile operators are quite desperate for clients (maybe because of the small population), and they try to gain competitors' clients. If you have stayed for longer than a year and you have post-paid contract, you can often get discounts with your operator of up to 50% by "threatening" to change operator. === Internet=== Free WiFi is often available in hotels, cafés, libraries, intercity buses and the Riga International Airport. Ask by the cash register or information desk if there does not seem to be an open network available. ====Copyright issues==== File sharing, p2p or streaming of copyright-protected content is illegal in Latvia, but users that download torrents for personal use are never prosecuted or tracked. Shaping of p2p-traffic is very uncommon. === Postal service === [[File:Latvia Post.jpg|thumb|A post box in Latvia]] The postal service in Latvia is run by '''[https://pasts.lv/en/ Latvijas Pasts]'''. Post offices can be found [https://mans.pasts.lv/postal-network all over the country]. Post boxes are blue and yellow with the postal logo, and most of them are emptied once every workday, a few of them even on Sundays and holidays. The Latvian postal service is reliable, but sending anything but postcards and letters can feel quite bureaucratic to Westerners. Long queues are a common thing in post offices, so it might will save you up to 30 minutes if you use [https://pasts.lv/en/For_Individuals/Useful_Information/apply-for-services-from-any-location/ their mobile app] to reserve a place in queue. As of January 2026 a postcard or an ordinary letter up to 20 grams is {{EUR|2.35}} within Latvia, {{EUR|3}} for destinations within the EU and {{EUR|4.41}} for rest of the world. Ordering from countries outside of EEA and EU one additionally has to pay VAT to get the parcel through customs: it can be done on the [https://eds.vid.gov.lv Latvian Revenue Service website]. == Go next == * [[Lithuania]], the southernmost Baltic state and Latvia's brotherly nation, with castles (much like in Latvia) and the relaxed capital [[Vilnius]], easiest to reach by bus. * [[Estonia]], northernmost Baltic state, with a lot of islands, beautiful landscapes, and a language related to Finnish. Can be reached by bus or train. * [[Sweden]] and [[Finland]], and from there the rest of [[Scandinavia]] can be reached by the many ferries operating across the Baltic sea. * The airport of Riga has many connections with other countries in Europe. {{isPartOf|Baltic states}} {{outlinecountry}} {{Geo|57|25|zoom=7}} gyjfqa550wb94w6zi7291ucujhiy9hf 5288960 5288883 2026-06-07T02:18:17Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 2 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5288960 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Riga_and_Daugava_banner.jpg}} '''Latvia''' ([[Latvian phrasebook|Latvian]]: ''Latvija'') is one of the three [[Baltic states]] in [[Europe]]. The biggest travel destination in the country is the capital [[Riga]], whose Old Town is a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site]]. There are many other great places to see, both urban and rural. Latvia's unspoilt sea coast is a 500-km-long unique biome, mainly consisting of empty beaches, white soft sand, and dunes covered with pine trees. Forests cover approximately half of Latvia's territory and are home to many nature trails, nature parks and wildlife preserves. The city of [[Liepāja]] with its magnificent beach and the unique formerly secret military neighbourhood of Karosta, [[Kuldīga]], recognized in 2023 as a UNESCO world heritage site, with Europe's widest waterfall, and [[Cēsis]] with its medieval castle ruins are just some of the various sights. ==Regions== There are various official and unofficial ways how the country's divided in regions. Most commonly, Vidzeme, Kurzeme, Zemgale and Latgale are separated as the major regions. Riga, which is otherwise considered part of Vidzeme, is often split off in a separate region either by city boundaries or by the boundaries of the Riga Planning Region, which includes a larger surrounding area. Although the social and cultural differences between the regions of Latvia are not large, they still exist. An example of that is Latgale region, which was separated from the rest of Latvian regions for several centuries by border, culturally, religiously and language-wise. Most locals will assume the city of Riga along with the suburbs is being talked about instead of the greater official planning region when the Riga Region is mentioned. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Latvia regions map.png | regionmaptext=The administrative planning regions of Latvia | regionmapsize=400px | region1name=[[Riga region]] | region1color=#9ce187 | region1description=The central region houses around half of the Latvian population. It boasts white-sand beaches grown with pine trees and foresty dunes. | region2name=[[Vidzeme]] | region2color=#c2a7e1 | region2description=The north-central Vidzeme region features the longest Latvian river - Gauja, the highest point in Latvia - Gaiziņkalns, the biggest cave in Latvia - Gūtmaņala, the Gauja National Park and other attractions. | region3name=[[Kurzeme]] | region3color=#e18792 | region3description=The western Kurzeme region has direct access to the Baltic sea. Kurzeme allows visitors to experience local heritage: old fishermen's villages and culture of the Livonian people, and a Viking settlement. | region4name=[[Zemgale]] | region4color=#87bce1 | region4description=The south-central Zemgale region is the flattest region of Latvia, historically known for being a great region for all agricultural needs. | region5name=[[Latgale]] | region5color=#c9bd9f | region5description=The eastern Latgale region is famed for its lakes and beautiful nature. Once lively and the most diverse part of Latvia, now it became quite a peripheral part of Latvia and few tourists. A mix of Latgalian, Russian and Jewish cultures is at the heart of this region. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#9ce187|title=[[Riga region]]|wikidata=Q2600641}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c2a7e1|title=[[Vidzeme]]|wikidata=Q745303}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#e18792|title=[[Kurzeme]]|wikidata=Q185072}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#87bce1|title=[[Zemgale]]|wikidata=Q215389}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c9bd9f|title=[[Latgale]]|wikidata=Q208113}} ==Cities== [[File:Riga - Roland's Statue.jpg|thumb|St. Roland's Statue, Old Town, Riga]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Riga]]|wikidata=Q1773}} &ndash; The capital city of Latvia and the European Capital of Culture in 2014 with a long history. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sigulda]]|wikidata=Q465698}} &ndash; A town in central Latvia with two interesting castles and historic points of interest. Probably, the most popular destination outside of Riga for foreign tourists, also due to its closeness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cēsis]]|wikidata=Q107582}} &ndash; One of the country's oldest towns. It has an impressive castle complex of Livonian Order origin, a charming city centre with some cobblestoned streets, and historic wooden buildings. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Jūrmala]]|wikidata=Q178382}} &ndash; A popular holiday and sea resort town with wooden houses just west of Riga, which claims to have the longest beach in Northern Europe. Very popular with Russian and other eastern European tourists. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Daugavpils]]|wikidata=Q80021}} &ndash; The second largest city in Latvia, after Riga. It is a delightfully charming, spacious, green city with a large fortress, which has withstood many many wars and remains virtually unchanged since its construction in the 19th century. The city is also known for being predominantly Russian. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ventspils]]|wikidata=Q104036}} &ndash; A modern and artistic sea resort city in the north-west part of Latvia, has many things to see, and is one of the tidiest places in the region. A long-stretching beach and recreational park provide everything for a relaxing holiday week or weekend. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Liepāja]]|wikidata=Q167668}} &ndash; Named "the city of wind", and the southwestern most city of Latvia. Famous for its sandy beach, numerous music events. It features modern architecture and a long history along with the formerly secret Soviet military neighbourhood of Karosta (literally: ''War Port''). * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuldīga]]|wikidata=Q155281}} &ndash; The capital of Duchy of Courland, Venice of Latvia, with unique and wooden architecture, red-tile roofs, bridges, cobbled streets, the widest widest waterfall ledge in Europe, and nearby the longest underground (sand) cave labyrinth in the Baltics. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Madona]]|wikidata=Q586048}} &ndash; A scenic town surrounded by hills, forests and lakes, and a winter sports centre. ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ķemeri National Park]]|wikidata=Q1395739}} – forests and mires. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Slīteres National Park]]|wikidata=Q1643261}} – coastal national park on the Liv Coast. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=EU-Latvia.svg}} ===History=== In the ancient and medieval world, the territory of today's Latvia was known for its particular significance to commerce. The famous route from the Vikings to the Greeks mentioned in ancient chronicles stretched from [[Scandinavia]] through Latvian territory, along the river Daugava, to the Kievan Rus and Byzantine Empire. In the 12th century, German traders arrived, bringing with them missionaries who attempted to convert the pagan Finno-Ugric and Baltic tribes to the Christian faith. The Germans founded Riga in 1201, making it the largest and most powerful city on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea during the Late Middle Ages. After gaining independence in 1918, Latvia achieved considerable results in social development, economy, industry and agriculture. On 16 June 1940, Soviet foreign minister Vyacheslav Molotov presented the Latvian representative in Moscow an ultimatum, accusing Latvia of violating a pact and conspiring against the Soviet Union. The Soviet forces invaded Latvia soon after and "People's Governments" were formed to provide a legal backing for a complete takeover, followed by Latvia being incorporated into the Soviet Union on 5 August 1940. Nazi Germany occupied the country the following year, ruling Latvia until the Soviet Red Army reoccupied the country in 1944. Both Nazi Germany and the USSR under Stalin were extremely brutal and murderous during their rule: the Nazis and their local collaborators murdered over 90,000 Latvians, including 75,000 Latvian Jews, while the Soviets, also having local collaborators, threw well over 90,000 Latvians into Siberian Gulags, from which many never returned, and had many thousands arrested locally, with many being shot or tortured. During the time of the Iron Curtain, when Latvia was a province of the Soviet Union, the concentration of heavy industry was enormous. All contacts with the West were strongly regulated during that period and everyone who was found to possibly have any contact with anyone abroad could be subject to accusations of conspiracy against the state. The Baltic region had the reputation of having the highest literacy rate and being the most urbanized in the Soviet Union. During the Soviet era, the Russian minority (less than 10% of the population before occupation) was supplemented by heavy immigration from other Soviet republics, especially Russia. After 1990 there was a desire by Latvians to get rid of everything Russian: only Latvian is an official language, and 60% of school classes have to be held in Latvian even in Russian-medium schools. While many ethnic Russians have emigrated, many remain and they present a unique case of citizenship law only mirrored by the situation in [[Estonia]]. People who are not descended from people who were citizens before the Soviet occupation and have not been nationalised are officially classed as "non-citizens". This is a category distinct from statelessness: they are given special passports and they have the unlimited right to reside in Latvia but can't vote in elections or hold certain civil service jobs. Especially older "non-citizens" tend to hold on to their weird limbo status, both because of unwillingness to learn Latvian and be subjected to the nationalisation test, and because a Latvian non-citizen passport allows visa-free travel to Russia whereas a Latvian citizen passport does not. The Russian minority is a strong factor in the culture and politics of the country, and Daugavpils, the second biggest city, has an ethnic Russian majority. ===Economy=== Latvia's economy grew rapidly after independence in 1991. Later the 2008 global recession and the financial crisis hit Latvia hard, bringing severe economic contraction and high unemployment rates and it took until 2017 for the country's economy to recover fully. Most Latvians work in the services sector. The Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 caused the loss of a key trading partner, and GDP growth has slowed. ===Climate=== The best time to travel to Latvia is during Summer, from June up to early-September, as it is warm during that period (around 15°C to 20°C) and various local foods are available. While the start of December is usually mild with temperatures staying above freezing, snowfall can be expected during the Winter season, January and February, and the temperatures can drop to around -30°C for short periods of time. Springs and autumns are fairly mild. ===Geography=== [[File:Mežs_2010.gada_28.augustā,_Tomes_pagasts,_Ķeguma_novads,_Latvia_-_panoramio.jpg|thumb|Forest in Tomes parish]] Latvia is generally flat and does not feature high mountains. The highest point in Latvia is Gaizinkalns, peaking at {{m|312}} above sea level, just west of the town of [[Madona]] in central Latvia. Half of Latvia is covered with forests that are abundant in wildlife. There are many small lakes scattered around the country, especially in the south-eastern Latgale region. Valleys carved by rivers can be seen with sections featuring sand cliffs on their banks. As heavy industry declined in the country it has the effect of an increasingly clean ecological environment. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.latvia.travel/en Official visitor information site] (in English). Can also be found in [https://www.latvia.travel/et Estonian], [https://www.latvia.travel/lt Lithuanian] and [https://www.latvia.travel/ru Russian] among other languages. ==Talk== {{seealso|Latvian phrasebook}} {{infobox|Language is a complex political issue|The Russian-speaking minority is quite protective of their language and culture, and often complains that the Latvian government is intentionally forcing a completely foreign culture upon them. The government denies these claims and some Latvian politicians argue that Russia encourages such sentiments. Some ethnic Latvians may find it offensive to be addressed in Russian due to its association with the Soviet Union. Given this difficult situation, you may face bad attitudes from some people for using the wrong language. If this ever happens, mention that you're not from Latvia; locals' attitudes will improve immediately.}} '''Latvian''' (''latviešu valoda'') is the only official language in Latvia. Natively spoken by around 1.5 million people in Latvia and abroad (Ireland, United Kingdom, Canada, USA, Russia, Brazil and Australia), it belongs to the Baltic language group of Indo-European languages. It is related to Lithuanian but is different enough to be hard to grasp even for native Lithuanian speakers. '''Latgalian''' (''latgalīšu volūda''), spoken by roughly 10%, is closely related, officially regarded as a variant of Latvian, with equal legal status but still marginalized and not used in state institutions. The third language with official status is '''Livonian''' (''līvõ kēļ''), which became extinct in 2013 with the death of the last native speaker. There are about 40 reported speakers and 210 having reported some knowledge of the language. Latvian uses the Latin script, expanded with diacritics; there are 33 letters in the alphabet, which is mostly phonetic, making pronunciation of Latvian generally easy to learn. The stress is almost always placed at the start of the word – on the first syllable. However, there are various complicated rules for some letters such as ''e'' and ''o'', and there may be different words that are spelled the same, with meaning changed with pronunciation. Some words are borrowed from other languages and are fairly easy to comprehend (such as ''restorāns''), but others have different roots. The language has complex grammar rules and is considered to be among the more difficult languages to learn. Should you decide to learn some Latvian to communicate with the locals, you should be prepared that some of the locals will only answer you in Russian, if they will answer you at all. This behaviour is not necessarily malicious, but could be because the person is much more proficient in the Russian language than in the Latvian language. If you also speak Russian, the choice is easy; otherwise, speak English - insisting on speaking Latvian will for certain create an awkward situation. People working in public services are required by law to speak Latvian. Latvia is home to a large Slavic (Russian/Ukrainian/Belarusian/Polish) minority. The younger generation of these people typically speak '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''' as their native language and Latvian as their second language, though older people who grew up under Soviet rule usually do not speak any Latvian. In some pockets of Latvia, Russian is more commonly spoken than Latvian. Apart from being the native language of a minority group, Russian is widely spoken at large as a second language, but its use is gradually declining. Generally speaking, the older generation of Latvians is more likely to be proficient in Russian, as Russian was compulsory during the Soviet period. There is a very good chance of finding Russian literature of any age in their original language in Latvia. When the country gained independence, the study of Russian in schools was replaced with '''English''' as a second language, meaning that younger Latvians are more likely to speak the latter. English is widely spoken by the younger generation that grew up after independence, but the generations that grew up under Soviet rule typically do not speak any English. Just like in the rest of the [[Baltics]], '''German''' is a popular foreign language. Although it's not as common as English, those working in tourism know enough of the language to get by. ==Get in== {{VisaRestriction|Admission of Russian citizens are refused unless for diplomatic or visiting spouses. |lastedit=2025 }} ===Visas=== {{Schengen}} ===By plane=== [[File:Riga Airport.JPG|thumb|Riga International Airport (RIX)]] '''[http://www.riga-airport.com/en Riga International Airport]''' ({{IATA|RIX}}) is the only airport in Latvia with regular international flights and is 10 km southwest of Riga. [http://saraksti.rigassatiksme.lv/index.html#bus/22/b-a/en Bus 22] operates on a route from the airport to the centre of Riga (and vice versa), a ticket from the driver costs {{EUR|2}}. Alternatively, you can buy yellow e-tickets (for 1, 3 or 5 days) from the Narvesen kiosk just outside the airport. Various other methods of transport are available on-site such as taxis. Alternatively, you can fly to [[Kaunas]] in [[Lithuania]] and take the [http://easytravel.lv/ Flybus]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to Riga. ===By train=== The Estonian company '''[https://elron.ee/en Elron]''' operates one daily train each way between [[Tallinn]], [[Estonia]] and [[Riga]] (via [[Tartu]] and [[Valga]]). Elron also operates two daily trains from Tallinn to Valga, from where trains operated by the Latvian company '''[https://www.vivi.lv/en/ Vivi]''' connect, going to [[Riga]]. The Lithuanian company '''[https://ltglink.lt/en/vilnius-riga-en LTG Link]''' operates a daily train between [[Vilnius]] and Riga. In addition, the Rail Baltica project, underway as of 2024, intends to create in much more frequent rail services between the Baltic countries and onwards to Central Europe. Because of the Russian war on Ukraine, services to and from Russia and Belarus have been suspended. If you travel by train via [[Daugavpils]] on your way to or from [[Riga]], you might need to stay in Daugavpils overnight for the connection. For that reason, you may be better off taking a bus or a plane when travelling between Riga and Vilnius. ===By bus=== There are international bus connections to anywhere in Europe, including frequent service to [[Tallinn]] and [[Tartu]] in [[Estonia]], and [[Vilnius]] and [[Kaunas]] in [[Lithuania]]. Notable bus route operators: * '''[http://ecolines.net/en/ Ecolines]''' * '''[http://www.luxexpress.eu/en Eurolines Lux Express]''' offers free coffee and more legroom than Simple Express service * '''[http://easytravel.lv/ Flybus]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' connects Riga and [[Kaunas]] and [[Vilnius]] * '''[https://global.flixbus.com/ FlixBus]''' has buses from [[Tallinn]], [[Warsaw]], [[Vilnius]] and [[Kaunas]] to Riga [[File:Romantika (laev).jpg|thumb|A Tallink ferry]] ===By boat=== {{infobox|A tip on onboard purchases|Even though all ferries have a shop on board, and they may label their offerings as "tax-free", you might want to save your purchases for the homeward trip. Many of the offerings most likely have a lower price in Latvia, especially if they are locally produced. Note down the prices from the ferry shop and compare them to prices in Latvia.}} * The '''[https://www.tallinksilja.com/stockholm-riga Tallink Silja]''' line between [[Stockholm]], [[Sweden]] and [[Riga]] is suspended as of spring 2023. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/ventspils-nynashamn Stena Line]''' operates ferries between [[Nynäshamn]], [[Sweden]] and [[Ventspils]] and between [[Travemünde]], [[Germany]] and [[Liepāja]]. One-way travel time is 8½ hours from Sweden and 27 hours from Germany. Stena Line offers regular one-way and roundtrip tickets, with or without a car. A pedestrian roundtrip on the line from Sweden begin at €34, with bicycle at €40 for a roundtrip. A recliner in a silent room is €10 extra for both ways. Pets are welcome, but a pet cabin is required without extra charge to a regular cabin. ====Via Lithuania==== * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS]''' - operates ferries between [[Karlshamn]], [[Sweden]] and [[Klaipeda]], [[Lithuania]]. An alternative route if you come from [[Denmark]] or the southernmost part of Sweden. Klaipėda is just 50 km away from the Latvian border when going north on the A13 national road. One-way travel time is 14 or 16 hours depending on departure. DFDS offers regular one-way and roundtrip tickets, with or without a car. A pedestrian roundtrip begin at €86; with bicycle at €106 for a roundtrip. ====By yacht==== {{see also|Boating on the Baltic Sea}} For those travelling by private boat, regular marinas are very few and still in their infancy (2019). * [[Kuiviži]], small town in the Bay of Riga, at the mouth of the Krišupe; [https://www.kapteinuosta.lv/en Kapteiņu osta]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} * [[Riga]], the capital city of [[Latvia]]; the [https://www.pilsetasjahtklubs.lv/en.html City Yacht Club] is right across the old town on the Daugava river * [[Jūrmala]], [http://marinajurmala.lv Marina Jurmala]{{Dead link|date=February 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is on the Lielupe river. * [[Ventspils]] on the west coast, [http://www.ventspilsmarina.lv Ventspils Marina] * [[Pāvilosta]], small town on the west coast, at the mouth of the Saka; [http://www.pavilostamarina.lv/en/ Pāvilosta Marina]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} It might be possible to arrange something with the authorities of other ports: [[Salacgrīva]], [[Skulte]], [[Saulkrasti]], [[Engure]], [[Mērsrags]], [[Roja]], and [[Liepāja]]. ===By car=== The road known as [[Via Baltica]] links [[Warsaw]], [[Poland]] and [[Tallinn]], [[Estonia]] going through [[Kaunas]], [[Lithuania]] and [[Riga]]. Coming from the west, you might want to skip driving a thousand kilometres through Poland and Lithuania – unless you specifically want to visit them – by taking an overnight ferry from Germany or Sweden to Latvia or Lithuania. The price of the ferry voyage is comparable to the cost of driving. ====Driving licence==== If you have a driving licence issued by another country in the European Union, you can use it continuously in Latvia just like in the issuing country. According to the law, residents of other countries have to obtain a Latvian driver's licence after having lived 6 months in Latvia, however, this only involves a theoretical exam, which can be taken in English, German, French or Russian. ==Get around== In Latvian, the word for street (as in street names) is ''iela''. An example is Brīvības iela which is translated as Freedom street. ===By car=== [[File:Latvia road sign 724.svg|thumb|Standard speed limits in Latvia]] {{User:Soshial/maps/Latvia}} National and regional roads in Latvia have been through a process of update since the accession to the European Union. All national roads are paved and are signposted in red with numbers from A1 to A15. Most of the national roads are also part of the European route grid of roads. 84% of the regional roads are paved and they are signposted in blue with numbers from P1 to P133. 78% of local roads are gravel roads and they are signposted in grey with numbers from V1 to V1489 — on maps, but not necessarily on the roads. The only motorway in Latvia is a 12-km stretch of the A7 around Ķekava, opened in 2023. Some national roads around Rīga are built to expressway standards and some have higher speed limits (110 km/h, indicated by signs) but are not classified as motorways. All gas stations around the country are self-service and available 24/7. '''[https://www.circlek.lv/ Cirkle K]''', '''[https://www.neste.lv/ Neste]''' and '''[https://www.viada.lv/ Viada]''' operate gas stations all over the country, and there are many local companies as well. Diesel fuel and gasoline with octane ratings of 95 and 98 are widespread. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG, ''autogāze'') is quite common as well. Electric cars are not widespread as the network of charging stations has not yet developed to be viable for casual, everyday usage. The two main providers of public electric charging for vehicles are '''[https://e-mobi.lv/en e-mobi]''' and '''[https://elektrumveikals.lv/en/home/electric-car-charging/public-charging Elektrum]'''. International car rental companies are represented and there are cheaper rental companies as well. There are many offices around Riga, including some at Riga Airport. You can see the list at [http://www.riga-airport.com/en/main/passengers/services/cafes-bars/car-rental the website of Riga International Airport]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. [https://citybee.lv/en/ CityBee] offers smartphone app based car rental. Standard speed limits for motorcycles, cars and vans without trailers with a total weight of less than 7.5 t are 50 km/h on urban roads, 90 km/h on non-urban roads and 80 km/h on non-urban gravel roads — unless otherwise stated by traffic signs. Traffic enforcement cameras (''fotoradars'') are signposted and placed all over the country. It is common practice that local (slower) speed limits are only signed where they begin and not where they end. Even though it is permitted to drive 80 km/h on gravel roads, it is very uncomfortable to do so. The gravel also varies and on some stretches it can be a very bumpy ride and very dusty too when the weather is dry. When planning for your trip ask someone who knows whether the shortest route is gravel or not. Sometimes it can be faster to drive a longer trip on asphalted road compared to a shorter route on gravel road. In Latvia, a lit green arrow traffic light, no matter in what direction it shows, does not give ''right of way'', which is different from other European countries. The green arrow signal allows passage only when the way is clear, without having to wait for a proper green signal. Trams (streetcars) have ''right of way'' and a fine may be given for obstruction of their passage. It is not allowed to pass a tram when it stands still at a route stop where people has to cross the street from the sidewalk. Finding a parking place is quite easy around Latvia, except in the capital [[Riga]], where fees apply in the city centre. There is disc parking in some towns around Latvia. The driving culture in Latvia is quite aggressive and hazardous. Almost none of the national and regional roads outside metropolitan Riga have emergency stopping lanes (shoulders) along the road. You will quickly realise that you perhaps are the only one that adheres to the standard speed limits, many heavy trucks drive 90 km/h. Some drivers with potent cars insist on overtaking at the slightest chance of squeezing through, even though there is no clear view of incoming traffic. There is significantly less traffic during evenings and nights. [[File:Kāpu zonas ceļa zīme.jpg|thumb|"Dune zone" road sign. Entry is prohibited for any motorized vehicle.]] It is prohibited to use any motorized vehicle in the territory of dune zones (usually 200m-1 km from sea shore). ====Legal requirements==== Headlights must be turned on during driving all year round. Tyres intended for use in winter are compulsory from December 1 to March 1. The use of studded tyres is prohibited from May 1 to October 1. The use of safety belts is compulsory for both drivers and passengers. Children not taller than 150 cm must be transported in an appropriate child seat or on an appropriate support. Drivers are not allowed to use a mobile phone while driving unless a hands-free system is used. The permissible alcohol level is up to 0.5 ‰, but up to 0,2‰ for novices having a driving license for less than 2 years. The car's registration papers (''tehniskā pase'') and driver's license must be always available when driving. ===By train=== [[File:Latvia_railways_frequency_of_commuter_trains_2016.svg|thumb|Frequency of commuter trains as of 2016]] [[File:Riga Train Station, Latvia.jpg|thumb|Riga Train Station]] The train network is fairly solid in Latvia, connecting larger cities. The rolling stock is partly of Soviet origin, partly electric Škoda trains, produced in Czechia and purchased in the 2020s. The passenger cars on domestic lines are of the open-compartment type, whereas on the international lines of the closed-compartment type. The trains are a reliable way of getting around, delays are uncommon. Domestic lines that run daily are the ones between Riga and Skulte, [[Sigulda]], Krustpils, [[Jelgava]] and [[Tukums]] (via [[Jūrmala]]). Other destinations run less frequent. The west coast of Latvia is rather poorly serviced with only one departure a week between Riga and [[Liepāja]]. Domestic train service is provided by the company '''[https://www.vivi.lv/en/ Vivi]'''. Timetables with pricing information are also available at '''[http://www.1188.lv/en/transport 1188.lv]'''. Trains can be cheaper than other methods of transportation and you generally do not need to be worried about them being packed, except possibly some peak days during the summer season. There are several stations in Riga on both sides of the Daugava river, the central station (''Rīgas Centrālā stacija'' or ''Rīgas-Pasažieru'') is the one next to the old town. Jūrmala has several stations as well. The station in Majori is the one you need when going to the beaches and the Jūrmala city centre. Ķemeri station in western Jūrmala is the closest to the national park. [[Jēkabpils]] is just across the Daugava river when you get off at the station in Krustpils. You can buy a train ticket before boarding the train at the station or you can buy one on the train from the personnel (but buying on the train costs €0.50 more). Some smaller stations' ticket offices may open late and close early or be closed for breaks during the day, generally due to the lack of passengers departing from said stations at those times. A timetable of trains will be available by the ticket office. Tickets can also be purchased online or on Pasažieru vilciens or Mobilly phone app. If you have an online ticket you just need to show the QR code to the train personnel. There is no seat reservation. There is a [http://www.banitis.lv/eng/index.htm narrow gauge railway]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} operating between the cities of [[Gulbene]] and [[Alūksne]] in the north-east of Latvia. Along the route, there are various tourist-orientated points of interest. ===By tram=== The three biggest cities (Riga, Daugavpils and Liepāja) each have their own tram systems. While they date to the turn of the century (Riga and Liepāja) or the immediate post-WW2 era (Daugavpils) they have been modernised and well maintained since independence and there are even new low-floor trams on order to replace the older rolling stock. ===By bus=== Riga and its metro area has an extensive transit network consisting of 50 bus routes, 22 trolleybus routes and 8 night bus routes operared by [http://www.rigassatiksme.lv Rīgas satiksme]. The route numbering plans for tram, trolleybus and bus routes are not integrated and both busses and trolleybuses might look the same, which means you might mistake a trolleybus for a bus or vice versa. The routes with the same number usually don't tend to overlap. Tickets are purchasable in ticket machines, stores, mobile applications, such as [https://www.rigassatiksme.lv/lv/biletes/bilesu-klasts-un-cenas-1/koda-bilete/ an official application]or [https://www.mobilly.lv/en/welcome-to-mobilly/ Mobilly], and from bus 22 drivers. The other largest cities also usually have their own bus networks, such as [https://satiksme.jurmala.lv/ Jūrmala]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://satiksme.daugavpils.lv/ Daugavpils], [http://www.liepajastransports.lv Liepāja], [https://www.ventspilsreiss.lv Ventspils], [https://www.jap.lv/ Jelgava], [http://www.rezeknessatiksme.lv/ Rēzekne]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.jekabpilsap.lv/ Jēkabpils], [https://vtu-valmiera.lv/ Valmiera], and [https://visittalsi.com/informacijai/pilsetas-autobusi/ Talsi]. Valka has a bus route 3 also serving [[Valga]] in Estonia. Other cities and towns might also have city transit routes integrated into regional bus network and have 4-digit route number. Other bus routes are served by various private companies that differ between regions, unlike for trains. The bus connections stretch all around the country and getting around using buses is usually fairly simple. The best way to receive information about buses in Latvia is from the inquiries service [http://www.1188.lv/en/transport 1188.lv], from the [http://www.autoosta.lv/ Autoosta Website]{{Dead link|date=March 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, or at a local bus station. Express buses connect major cities and serve with a reduced count of stops along the way and can save time. Tickets can be bought at ticket offices, on the buses when boarding, or online. If buying tickets in advance, that can usually be done up to 10 days prior to departure. Luggage can be placed in the trunk of the bus, which might even be required depending on the bus company and the size of the bag. You might be charged extra and receive an additional ticket or voucher for the luggage, depending on the policies of the company. If you plan on leaving Riga during Friday or Saturday, you might find the buses to be crowded as travelling by bus is the most common method of travelling between cities in many regions and many head out of Riga for the weekend. If you buy a ticket from the ticket office at the bus station you are departing from beforehand during this period, you can board the bus before others. Some bus operators provide WiFi access on board, which are usually free of charge and provide good coverage throughout the whole trip. ===By taxi=== Ride-hailing is available in Latvia. * {{go | name=Bolt | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-07-09 | content=The most anticipated provider. Includes many towns. }} * [https://forus.eu/lv/ '''Forus Taxi'''] (smartphone app) Officially registered taxis can be recognized by the vehicle registration plate with black text on a yellow background, whereas ordinary cars have registration plates with a white background. ===By boat=== Yachting is for the very well off Latvians and regular marinas are very few and still in their infancy. The '''[https://www.pilsetasjahtklubs.lv/en.html City Yacht Club]''' in [[Riga]] is right across the old town on the Daugava river. '''[http://marinajurmala.lv/ Marina Jurmala]{{Dead link|date=February 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' in [[Jūrmala]] is on the Lielupe river. '''[http://www.pavilostamarina.lv/en/ Pāvilosta Marina]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' and '''[http://www.ventspilsmarina.lv/ Ventspils Marina]''' are both on the Latvian west coast. It might also be possible to arrange something with the authorities of other ports. There is no public transport by boat between Latvian ports. If you are going from [[Riga]] to [[Jūrmala]] during the summer, a very romantic way is to travel by river cruise boats: mainly two-deck motor boats with place for around 60 to 100 people. They usually depart from Riga centre in the morning and return in the afternoon. There are cruises in the Riga Canal, passing through the Daugava river. Ask in the tourism information centre for more details and pricing. ===By bike=== Cycling is generally not the safest method of getting around the country, especially at night. There are not many cycling paths around the country so you may find yourself biking close to cars very often. When in cities, many locals cycle along pedestrian paths to avoid the traffic. Some sidewalks around Riga have markings splitting off one side for cyclists and the other for pedestrians, but this is often not the case in other cities around the country. You will probably encounter people who do not respect the markings. Cycle in the early morning to avoid the majority of traffic. The main rush hour when heavier traffic can be expected is from 17:00-20:00. Your bike should be equipped with reflectors and front and rear lights. Wear reflective clothing, especially if cycling after dark. An interesting option may be to travel on a guided bike tour. Companies offering cycling tours in the region include [http://utracks.com UTracks]. The international [http://velovilnius.lt/balticcycle/ BaltiCCycle] project may provide you helpful information regarding cycling in the region ===By thumb=== {{seealso|Hitchhiking}} Hitchhiking in Latvia is generally a good way to get around. You might encounter some difficulties if your destination is not on the way to a larger city. Your main difficulty may be getting around [[Riga]] as there is no clear by-pass road. The amount of local traffic can make hitching very difficult as locals will usually stop at Riga. Drivers may be hesitant to pick up tourists that they expect to only speak English, which many Latvians do not understand. It is harder than other eastern European countries to hitch-hike in Latvia. Hence, success is very volatile. You might be lucky within 10 min (along the larger roads), or you might just wait 1½ hr without anyone stopping, especially in remote areas with less traffic. Do not count on getting picked up eventually, but be sure to know when the last bus departs. ===By plane=== There are no domestic flights within Latvia. ===On foot and navigation=== Latvia has many picturesque 1-3 day hiking trails and is very popular with cyclists. For reliable (offline) maps of the region and comprehensive map information, consult [https://www.openstreetmap.org/ OpenStreetMap], which is also used by this travel guide, and by many mobile Apps like [http://osmand.net/ OsmAnd] (complex with many add-ons) and [https://organicmaps.app/ Organic Maps] (easy but limited). ==See== [[File:Cesis castle ruins (Latvia).jpg|thumb|Cēsis castle ruins, Vidzeme Region]] [[File:Kuldigas tilts.JPG|thumb|Bridge over Venta in Kuldīga]] [[File:Jelgava aerial view.jpg|thumb|Jelgava]] [[File:12 Kokneses-pils-no-pret-kr-29sep07.jpg|thumb|Koknese castle ruins]] ===Latvia's top tourist attractions=== * '''Old City Riga and Riga Town Hall Square''', [[Riga]], Architecture and History * '''Sigulda Castles''', [[Sigulda]], Architecture and Nature * '''Cēsis Medieval Castle''', [[Cēsis]], Architecture and History * '''Jūrmala Beach''', [[Jūrmala]], Recreational * '''Basilica of the Assumption''', [[Latgale#See|Latgale]], Architecture and Heritage * '''Rundale Palace''', [[Zemgale#See|Zemgale]], Architecture and Museum * '''Ventspils Beach''', [[Ventspils]], Recreational * '''The Great Ķemeri Moorland''', [[Riga region#See|Riga region]], Nature * '''Cape Kolka''', [[Kurzeme#See|Kurzeme]], Nature * '''Narrow Gauge Railway''', [[Alūksne]], Recreational ===Description=== When thinking of Europe, Latvia is usually not one of the first countries to come to people's mind. Being buried under the big iron no-go blanket of the Soviet Union until regaining its independence in 1991, Latvia is just now being discovered by larger tourist crowds to be surprised by the charms of this Baltic country. Latvia's dynamic capital, the historic city of '''[[Riga]]''', is a great place to spend some time. It is the home to the beautiful '''Old Town''', full of magnificent Jugendstil architecture, winding cobblestoned streets and many steeples, while yet staying a modern, metropolitan city with a vibrant nightlife and a strong economic impulse, to the extent that the rise of the modern buildings is threatening the Old Town's World Heritage listing. Riga's vibe moves many travellers, perhaps due to the strong contrasts between the old and the new or maybe because of the seemingly painless blend of Latvian and Russian cultures, as almost half of the city's inhabitants are of Russian origin. You can get a sense of the city by wandering through the various large parks all around the city, strolling around the historic neighborhoods and kicking back in one of the cafés or outdoor terraces. Among Riga's notable sights are '''Riga Cathedral''', '''St. Peter's Church''' and the lively '''[http://www.rct.lv/en/ Central Market]'''. See [[Riga#See]] as well for some more ideas. 30 minutes from Riga is one of the best and multicultural sea resort towns of Latvia, '''[[Jūrmala]]'''. It can be found with beautiful beaches, houses, promenade and the nice '''Dzintari Forest Park'''. Although Riga is by far the country's main tourist destination, there are a bunch of other places worth visiting. 40&nbsp;km to the east from the capital lies '''[[Sigulda]]''', with several castles such as the nicely reconstructed '''Turaida Castle''', and the deep '''Gūtmanis Cave'''. The town is in the Gauja valley and has been called the "Switzerland of Latvia" for its steep cliffs and banks. It's known for its winter sports opportunities and provides a great chance to explore the fine nature around the town. Further northeast towards the Estonian border, '''[[Cēsis]]''', one of the country's oldest towns, can be found. It has a charming city centre with cobblestoned streets, historic wooden buildings and an impressive castle complex. The coastal city of '''[[Liepāja]]''' is known to Latvians as "the city where the wind was born", due to the sea breeze it constantly gets. It has a nice beach and a charming town centre with a colourful mixture of architectural styles ranging from wooden houses and spacious parks to Art Nouveau and concrete Soviet-era apartment buildings. Liepāja's '''Karosta''' neighbourhood was built in the late 19th century as a naval base for Tsar Alexander III and was later used by the Soviet Baltic Fleet. Its splendid seaside panoramas, former military prison and fortress are preserved now making it a popular tourist sight. Besides Liepāja, '''[[Ventspils]]''', further north, is a modern sea resort town with an arty touch and well worth a summer vacation. From here and around '''Cape Kolka''', the '''Livonian Coast''', a remote and isolated coast landscape with wild beaches, sand dunes and lighthouses can be found. There are also some nice lighthouses worth visiting between Ventspils and Liepāja. '''[[Kuldīga]]''', southeast of Ventspils, is the home of Europe's widest waterfall ledge as a part of '''Venta Rapid'''. Even though only two metres high, its size makes it a nice sight. Together with the historic town, it is worth exploring. '''[[Jelgava]]''', on the way from the Lithuanian border towards Riga, has two fine sights in baroque style, the '''Rundāle Palace''' less than 40 km southeast of the city and the '''Jelgava Palace''' in the city centre. Around 40&nbsp;km north-east of the second largest city in the country, '''[[Daugavpils]]''', is the colossal white '''Basilica of the Assumption'''. It is the most important Catholic church in Latvia and is locally also known as Aglona Basilica, as Aglona is the name of the village it is located in. There are many interesting '''old castles''' maintained around Latvia. The Association of Latvian Castles, Palaces and Manors (Latvian: ''Latvijas Piļu un muižu asociācija'') has information along with photos on their [http://www.pilis.lv/en/ website]. Sometimes the castles may be reserved for private events. ==Do== ===Events=== Most event tickets and schedules are available at [http://www.bilesuparadize.lv bilesuparadize.lv] ====Traditional celebrations==== {{infobox|Latvian Song and Dance Festival|[[File:Latvian Song festival 2008.jpg|300px|center]] One of the key cultural events in Latvia, which started in 1873 as a singing festival. Now the festival involves live performances of choirs, folk dance groups, brass bands etc. Competitions, exhibitions, concerts, parades and joint concerts are some of the cultural events. Riga is full of people wearing traditional costumes and cheerful people from all of Latvia. It is held every five years; so the next is due to be held in July 2028. }} * '''New Year's Eve''' ''Jaunā Gada svētki'' (31 December–1 January) — Most locals celebrate with their families, but you are likely to see events taking place on the streets as well. * '''Easter''' (''Lieldienas'') — Annually in April, you can usually find events in town centres, such as traditional Easter celebrations with swings and egg fights. * '''Summer solstice celebration''' (''Vasaras saulgrieži'') Traditional celebrations are held in many places throughout Latvia. The most popular one takes place in [[Sigulda#Do|Sigulda]]. * '''Jāņi''' or '''Līgo''', June 23-24, across Latvia. Latvians celebrate the summer solstice with Jāņi — the midsummer festival. Before the celebration, flea markets are held in many places. * '''White Night''' (''Baltā nakts''), in [[Rīga]], annually, in the beginning of September. ====Historical==== * '''Count of May''' (''Maija Grāfs''), in [[Rīga]], annually in the middle of May, has medieval tournaments, witch trial, traditional dances. * '''Medieval Day at Cēsis Castle''' (''Cēsu Pils Viduslaiku diena'') in [[Cēsis]], is held annually, on the first Saturday of August. * '''Semigallians Days in Tervete''' (''Zemgaļu svētki Tērvetē'') is held annually, on the second Saturday of August, 30 km SWvof [[Jelgava#Do|Jelgava]]. * '''Seeburg Viking Festival''' ''Dzīvās Vēstures festivāls'' in Grobiņa, close to [[Liepāja]], is held annually, last Sunday of May. The west coast of Latvia has Viking heritage dating to 9th century. ====Music==== * '''Latvian Song and Dance Festival''' (''Latvian Vispārējie latviešu Dziesmu un Deju svētki'') in [[Riga#Festivals and events|Riga]], is an annual song and dance festival in July, with an even larger festival every 5 years. One of the key cultural events in Latvia, which started in 1873 as a singing festival. * '''Festival of World Music''' (''Ārpasaules mūzika Tiguļkalnā festivāls''), in [[Talsi]], annually, beginning of June. National and foreign folk music performed on the highest hill in Talsi. * '''Riga Rhythms Festival''' (''Rīgas Ritmi festivāls'') in [[Riga#Festivals and events|Riga]] takes place annually, at the end of June/start of July. * '''Positivus festival''' in [[Riga region#Do|Salacgrīva]] takes place annually, mid-July. It is Latvia's largest music festival, featuring various international artists in a relaxed environment. * '''Saulkrasti Jazz Festival''' in [[Riga region#Do|Saulkrasti]], annually, at the end of July. Latvian and foreign musicians perform by the sea. * '''Bauska Country Music Festival''' in [[Bauska#Do|Bauska]], annually, for 2 days, mid-July. European and U.S. country musicians perform. * '''Laba Daba''' near [[Līgatnes#Do|Līgatnes]] novads, next held in August 2026. The "good nature" festival of music and outdoor activities. ====Various==== * '''International Ice Sculpture Festival''' in [[Jelgava]], annually, at the start of February. * '''International Baltic Ballet Festival''' in [[Riga#Festivals and events|Riga]] in April. * '''Latvia Beerfest''' in [[Riga#Festivals and events|Riga]], annually, at the end of Mayus the largest international beer festival in the Baltic states. * '''Cēsis Art Festival''' (''Mākslas festivāls Cēsis'') in [[Cēsis]], annually, July-August. ===Sports and outdoor activities=== There are many different winter sports opportunities such as snowboarding, cross country skiing, downhill skiing etc. Major skiing facilities include [https://ramkalni.com/ Rāmkalni], [http://www.baili.lv/index.php?lp=_enziema Baiļi] and [http://www.zviedrucepure.lv/winter_en.php Zviedru Cepure]. Some of the slopes are open late at night, but accessing them by public transport can sometimes be a challenge or turn out to be flat out impossible. After Easter, as it gets warmer and rivers start to get more water from melting snow, kayaking down the rivers is one of the favourite activities for younger people. Also, marathons are quite popular in Latvia. More entertaining marathons like ''Jāņu naked marathon'' (Jāņu nakts pliko skrējiens) take place in [[Kuldīga]] on Jāņi day. * '''Lattelecom Marathon''' (''Lattelecom Rīgas maratons'') in [[Riga#Sports|Riga]] in the middle of May is the biggest sport marathon held since 2007 in Latvia. * '''Playground''' in Ropaži, 40-min drive from [[Riga#Sports|Riga]] in Mid-July is a youth festival of sports on water, land and air (e.g. longboarding, SUP, wakeboarding, hydro-cycles, mountain bikes, slack line). * '''Cycling Festival and Cycling Night''' (''Kuldīgas Velofestivāls'') held at the end of May in [[Kuldīga]] is the largest non-commercial bicycle marathon in Latvia. ===Nature=== [[File:Gauja National Park Latvia.jpg|thumb|Gauja National Park]] Due to the low population density, large parts of Latvia are covered by forests and wetlands. There are four national parks and many nature preserves/parks in place around the country that can be explored, hiked, and camped in by nature-loving travellers. The largest national park, and major tourist attraction with its popular towns and cities, is the densely forested [[Vidzeme|Gauja National Park]] in the Gauja river valley in the [[Vidzeme]] region. Remote, lonely and mysterious lies the [[Riga region|Great Ķemeri Moorland]] inside the Ķemeri National Park of the [[Riga region]], with a planked walkway and observation platform. Another, but less touristy national park is the [[Latgale|Rāzna National Park]] in the [[Latgale]] region. Last but not least, the Slitere National Park protects the stunning [[Kurzeme|Cape Kolka]] in the [[Kurzeme]] region, where the Gulf of Riga meets the Baltic Sea. This allows for: * '''Bird watching''' &ndash; Very popular, since Latvia is an important autumn stopping grounds for migratory birds in Europe. * '''Trekking''' &ndash; Many opportunities at various difficulty levels exist, starting with short walks in old parks up to several day camping and boating trips. Due to the general openness of Latvians towards nature, camping is possible virtually anywhere (except for private ground), even inside of national parks. * '''Mushroom hunting''' &ndash; This seems to be the secret national sport of Latvians. Taking the train through the countryside or just walking in the forests, you will notice bunches of people all over the place, especially in September, looking for mushrooms and blue berries. Even in the remotest region, when you thought, this would be a good place for a naked dip in the Baltic Sea, beware, there could always be people in the woods collecting tons of what nature provides them with. * '''Stroll around''' &ndash; This is popular near [[Sigulda]] and in the [[Vidzeme]] region in general, especially in the autumn when the leaves of the trees take on different shades of colour, turning red and yellow. ===Beach activities=== [[File:Garciema Beach with Pine Trees.jpg|thumb|400px|Pine tree sand beach near Garciems (Garciema Pludmale)]] Latvia has one of the longest '''sand beaches''' in Europe. The sea generally has a very slow slope. In July and August the water is warm enough for swimming. One of the best beaches is the coast southwards from Liepāja because is by the open sea, not the gulf as by Riga, meaning it receives cleaner water, brighter sand and there are not as many people there due to it not being very close to massively populated areas. The salt level in the sea is fairly low and you may not even need to wash after swimming due to that. When the air temperature rises to 30°C, the water temperature still stays around 20°C, which makes it very refreshing after a long session of sunbathing. ===Spas=== Latvia has various ''spas'' that are an excellent way to relax. Although the popular holiday resort town of '''[[Jūrmala]]''' can sometimes be a bit crowded, it offers some of the best options as well as a fine beach. ===Cultural heritage=== Latvia is full of places where you can see and experience the cultural heritage by for example participating in traditional food making & tasting and listening to authentic folk songs. The Latvian rural tourism association ''[http://www.celotajs.lv/en Lauku ceļotājs]'' published a Latvian and Estonian cultural heritage map with the English title of "Worth Seeing" in cooperation with the Estonian rural tourism association ''Eesti Maaturism''. This map contains useful information about cultural heritage sites with practical information such as about accommodation sites, with preference for rural tourism. The map can be downloaded online or obtained from a Lauku ceļotājs office in Riga. ==Buy== {{Exchange rate euros}} ===Money=== {{Euro}} '''[https://www.bank.lv/en/ Latvijas Banka]''' (The Latvian National Bank) is the only place you can get commemorative €2 coins at nominal value and exchange euro banknotes to smaller or larger denomination euro banknotes without having to pay a fee. This can be done at the branch in Riga. Latvijas Banka's [https://www.bank.lv/en/about-us/contacts/cashier-s-office cashier's office in Riga] also exchanges Latvian lats issued 1993 to 2013 at a fixed rate against euro. '''Tax free''' stores have their signs clearly displayed. ATMs are widely available throughout Latvia, including in Riga International Airport and even in many small towns. Banks will accept '''traveller's cheques''' with a fee, usually equal to or greater than 1% of the amount exchanged or a flat €10. ===ISIC=== If you are an EU student, bring your ISIC. Many places (museums, bus, etc.) in Latvia have great discounts for EU students with an ISIC. ===Tipping=== The tipping culture of Latvians is generally fairly reserved — usually rounding up the bill (around 5-10%) is enough, but it is not expected. Make sure to check your receipt, as some (but few) establishments may automatically include a tip in the bill as service charge. Tips is ''dzeramnauda'' (drink money) in Latvian. ===Shopping=== [[File:Colours of Baltic Amber.jpg|thumbnail|Examples of Baltic amber]] * '''Amber''' is sold in most souvenir shops. If you are lucky, some can sometimes be found on the Baltic Sea shore after a storm. Be careful looking for amber on beaches in western Latvia - the sea near Liepāja is polluted with phosphorus, which looks exactly the same, but can catch fire after drying out. * '''Smoked (black) ceramics''' in the Latgale region * '''Silver jewellery''' * '''Pirts''' (Latvian style sauna) items: Fragrant oils, honey and herb based massage creams, felt caps for sauna, intended to protect the proteins of hair in the extreme heat, and various other items. * '''Mittens with ornaments''': Hand-made, representing traditional culture. * '''Wool products''': Indoors slippers and shoes, vests, jackets, hats, etc. * '''Dark (rye) bread''' (''Rupjmaize'') gives more energy than the common white (wheat) bread. Best bought fresh and not stored for overly long periods of time. * '''[http://www.lb.lv/en/ Riga Black Balsam]''' (''Rīgas Melnais balzams'') is a traditional Latvian herbal liqueur made using many natural ingredients. The original recipe of Abraham Kunze, a druggist, was said to have cured mysterious illness of visiting Catherine the Great in 1755. * '''Bee products''': Honey of various kinds, such as with nuts, bee pollen, propolis and beeswax candles are just some of the various local products that can be purchased. * '''Laima''' is the leading sweets producer in Latvia. Products are available in almost all grocery and convenience stores all around the country, with specialized [http://www.laima.lv/en/contacts/shop-network/?shops Laima stores]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} in the larger cities. * [https://skriveru.com/en/index '''Skrīveru'''] produces the popular soft fudge Gotiņa and other related products. They are available in almost all grocery and convenience stores all around the country. Speciality shops are open mostly from 08:00 to 18:00 on weekdays, 08:00 to 16:00 on Saturdays and closed on Sundays. Grocery shops and supermarkets are open every day. Some close at 20:00 while others, especially larger supermarkets, close at later times such as 24:00. Convenience stores, such as Narvesen, are usually open 24/7. [http://www.aibe.lv/lv/veikali Aibe], [https://www.lidl.lv/ Lidl], [https://www.maxima.lv/veikalu-kedes Maxima], [https://mego.lv/kontakti Mego], [https://www.rimi.lv/veikali Rimi] and [https://www.toppartika.lv/veikali/ top!] have shops and supermarkets all over Latvia. Also there are [https://www.circlek.lv/station-search Circle K], [https://www.kool.lv/ Kool], [https://narvesen.lv/kontakti/ Narvesen], [https://www.rimi.lv/veikali Rimi express] and [https://www.virsi.lv/lv/privatpersonam/uzpildes-stacijas Virši] convenience stores. Many of the good offers are only available with either an app or a customer card. The Rimi customer card is known to be available to foreigners, the others have not been tested. All that is needed to register a Rimi customer card is a mobile phone number where text messages can be received to confirm the registration. The physical customer card is sold for €1 in the stores. The Rimi customer card can also be used in Rimi stores outside of Latvia. ==Eat== Latvian cuisine is typical of the Baltic region and, in general, of northern countries, and especially similar to Finnish cuisine (see [[Nordic cuisine]]). It's high in butter and fat while staying low on spices except for black pepper, dill or grains/seeds, such as caraway seeds. If you are from the Mediterranean, you might find the food rather bland, but if you come from England or the Midwestern U.S., you will probably not have any trouble getting used to most of the dishes. Latvian cuisine originated from the peasant culture and is strongly based on crops that grow in Latvian maritime, temperate climate. Latvian cuisine offers plenty of varieties of bread and milk products, which are staples. Pork products, potatoes, rye or wheat, oats, peas, beets, cabbage are the staples. Meat, especially pork, features in most main meal dishes. Sometimes even some meatless dishes can be cooked using bacon fat. But fish also is commonly consumed due to Latvia's location on the east coast of the Baltic Sea and Livonian heritage: smoked and raw fish are quite common. {{Moreinfo|cuisine of Kurzeme and Livonians|Kurzeme#Eat{{!}}Kurzeme}} === Meals === Contemporary Latvians usually eat three meals a day. Breakfast is normally light and usually consists of sandwiches or an omelette, with a drink, often milk. Lunch is eaten from 11:00 to 15:00, and tends to be the main meal of the day; as such it can include a variety of foods, and sometimes also soup as a starter and a dessert. Supper is the last meal of the day, with some choosing to eat another large meal. Consumption of ready-made or frozen meals is now common. === Type of places === It is important to keep in mind that in Latvia the whole concept and meaning of words '''cafeteria''' (''kafejnīca''), '''canteen''' (''ēdnīca'') and '''restaurant''' (''restorāns'') is different compared to that in other countries. A kafejnīca (cafeteria) is not just a coffee shop and usually serves all kinds of meals that would be expected from a restaurant with the difference being that in a kafejnīca is a lower class food place where you will usually have no table service and have less service in general. An ēdnīca (canteen) will refer to a canteen for schools, universities, factories and the likes. They are usually very cheap and can sometimes have limited access. A restorāns (restaurant) is generally considered a highbrow facility, while it is similar to a kafejnīca, the standards of service and culture for a restorāns are much higher. The line between being a kafejnīca and a restorāns can be very thin in some instances. In the open air markets of Rīga and other cities and towns, local fruits, vegetables and mushrooms can be purchased. Examples are freshly picked wild strawberries and blueberries from local forests, big strawberries, apples and rhubarb pies. Keep in mind that, of course, these are mainly available during the summer and fall seasons. === Meat meals === '''Karbonāde''' (pork schnitzel), '''karbonāde ar kaulu''' (grilled pork chops) and '''cūkas stilbs''' (pork knuckle) are all-time favourites. === Side-dishes === '''Kartupeļi''' (potatoes) are served with everything and they're usually either boiled, fried, boiled and then fried or mashed. Sometimes '''griķi''' (boiled buckwheat) is eaten instead of potatoes - it's very tasty with '''skābais krējums''' (sour cream). '''Kāposti''' (cabbage) also plays a major role in most Latvian meals. Sometimes it's served cold as a salad or hot as a side dish like '''skābie kāposti''' (sour kraut). '''Pelēkie zirņi''' (grey peas) is another side dish worth trying: big, brownish-grey round peas are boiled and then fried with bacon and usually served with kefir or sour cream. === Milk products === [[image:Rēzeknes Piena konservu kombināta biezpiena izstrādājumi.jpg|300px|thumb|An assortment of Latvian cheese products]] Latvia is much richer in milk products than other Western countries. '''Biezpiens''' (which is ''cottage cheese''), '''skābais krējums''' (sour cream), '''kefīrs''' and a lot of varieties cheeses with different flavours. A cheese similar to smoked gouda, but softer, is the cheapest and, arguably, tastiest variety. There are various tastes available for purchase in most grocery stores. A Latvian specialty is the [http://www.milk.lv/en/products/curd-snacks '''biezpiena sieriņš''']{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} which is a quark with a sweet taste (the most popular manufacturers of the snack are ''Kārums'' and ''Baltais''). A traditional Latvian cheese that is in the picture to the right, is '''Jāņu siers''' (caraway cheese); this is traditionally served during the celebration of Jāņi or midsummer. === Soups === Soups are commonly made with vegetables and broth or milk. Frikadeļu zupa (meatball soup), noodle soup, '''zirņu zupa''' (pea soup), '''biešu zupa''' (beetroot soup), sorrel soup and nettle soup are usually consumed by Latvians. There is a special cold beetroot soup ('''aukstā biešu zupa''') that can be prepared in various ways and is made to suit a warm summer day. === Sweets === The most traditional and exotic Latvian dish is '''maizes zupa''' (literally "bread soup"), which is the sweet soup made from rye bread and fruits. Also, the already mentioned '''biezpiena sieriņš''' is quite sweet and tasty. '''Zefīrs''' is a soft marshmallow-ish type of sweet. '''Rabarberu pirāgs''' (rhubarb cake) is really worth trying. Two main local sweets manufacturers '''Laima''' and '''Skrīveru Saldumi''' are well known and they offer a variety of sweets ranging from chocolate bars of various kinds, to candies, to marmalades, fruits in chocolate, biscuits and more. It comes with glazing and without, in various tastes. A caramel sweet named '''gotiņa''' (translated as ''little cow'') is worth a try. These two companies sell some of their sweets in nice gift packages, which may be handy to bring souvenirs home. === Breads === Latvian dark '''(rye) bread''' is heavy and flavourful and goes well with hearty Latvian meals such as pea soup, potatoes and schnitzels. It is believed to be healthier than the white bread. '''Rupjmaize''' is a dark bread made from rye, and is considered a national staple and should be tried. '''Saldskābā maize''' is a bread made from a mixture of rye and wheat. '''Pīrādziņi''' are buns filled with bacon and onion. A classical display of Latvian cuisine. '''Kliņģeris''' is a sweet pretzel-shaped bread that is usually served as a dessert on special occasions, such as name day. === Traditional dishes === If you want to try some really traditional dishes, then try these: * boiled potatoes with quark * oat and pea kissels * '''Ķīselis'''. Thickened, stewed fruits (usually cherry or rhubarb). Served for dessert. * grey peas with salted pork fat (fatback) * '''Siļķe ar biezpienu'''. Herring with cottage cheese. * '''siļķu pudiņš''' (casserole made from herring and boiled potatoes) * '''sklandrausis''' (or '''sklandu rausis''') is a traditional dish in Latvian cuisine which has a Livonian origin; it's a sweet pie, made of rye dough and filled with potato and carrot paste and seasoned with a caraway * '''asins pankūkas''' (pancakes made from blood) * '''maizes zupa''' (sweet bread soup) * cold soups (served when it's hot outside) === For vegetarians and vegans === Fruits and vegetable of this region are mostly organic, because they are often low efficiency home-grown produce. === Other === Some other noteworthy foods: * '''Buckwheat''' (''Griķi''). Eaten as the main course. * '''Sauerkraut''' (''Skābēti kāposti''). * '''Smoked cheese''' (''Kūpināts siers''). Goes very well with wine. * '''Eel''' (''Zutis''). * '''Cutlet''' (''Kotlete''). * '''Chanterelle sauce''' (''Gaileņu mērce''). A sauce from the edible chanterelles in sour cream. Usually served with potatoes. ==Drink== [[File:Riga Black Balsam.jpg|thumb|Riga Black Balsam, local herb liqueur]] Beer (''alus'') is generally the alcoholic beverage of choice for most Latvians. Aldaris and Līvu are the main large breweries in Latvia, but local breweries such as Užavas, Bauskas and Piebalgas exist all around the country and should not be forgotten. You are also suggested to try the locally distilled Riga Black Balsam (Rīgas Melnais balzams). It's an infusion of various herbs, roots and spices, making it a good home remedy for the common cold. By itself it is fairly strong - 45% alcohol by volume - and can be taken by adding a touch of it to flavor your tea, as a few spoons to lace your coffee or mixed in various cocktails. Even though Latvia is fairly far out north, grapes can still be successfully grown for making wine, although '''wine''' production in Latvia generally happens in small quantities, there are some local wineries and vineyards. ==Sleep== Although you might not find plenty of 5 star hotels all around Latvia, you will find comfortable places to stay for reasonable prices. There are many '''hotels''' to choose from and the prices generally start with €30 outside of Riga and €60 in Riga. A small network of '''[http://hostellinglatvia.com/pages/hostels youth hostels]{{Dead link|date=December 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' also exists. Dormitory rooms are around €10-15 while single and double rooms are €30 and above. So-called '''guest houses''' or '''country houses''', some on farms, are a great place to stay at the countryside. They usually cost much less than hotels and are of much better quality than hostels due to the limited number of guests and the personalized service. Such houses are usually run by families and will come with full amenities with some even following the hotel star ratings. These usually provide many recreational activities such as the Latvian popular sauna (''pirts'') and horseback rides. You can ask your hosts regarding popular attractions available nearby, what sights are worth visiting and whether some events are taking place at that time that they would suggest visiting. Keep in mind, you will not be able to simply "drop in" usually and will be required to plan ahead, contacting the guest house in question a day or few before arrival. This can depend on the specific place. Guest houses can generally be found fairly frequently throughout the countryside and are often listed on tourist booklets. Latvian rural tourism association, ''[https://celotajs.lv/en Lauku ceļotājs]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'' has published catalogs and maps that list various types of accommodation mixed with content such as cultural heritage sites and nature parks. The publications can be downloaded online or in an association office in Riga. Accommodations may give a '''discount,''' if you book with them directly (e.g. phone or their website) instead of using online middle-men services. This is due to the reason that most accommodations in Latvia can be booked without credit card anyway. So, there is no real guarantee that someone does turn up. Just that via phone owners are at least not stuck with an online fee without receiving the room rent. === Wild camping === '''Camping''' in natural parks and reserves, and on vegetated sand dunes (usually around 200m-1km from the seaside) is strictly prohibited unless posted signs say otherwise. Around half of Latvian forests are government-owned, and camping there is legal at all times throughout the year, but areas where campfires are permitted are limited. For a map of such public forests [https://www.lvmgeo.lv/en/maps Latvian State Forest agency website] or in the designated app. Most rural land is private, but camping on it is usually acceptable, but it is always a good idea to ask for a permission from the land owner as you can be declined the right to stay on privately owned land even if for a single night; however, most people are understanding and will gladly let you camp. Keep in mind that staying very close to someone's home or staying at the same place for more than two days is generally considered bad manners. Follow your common sense in general. There can be free campsites that are indicated accordingly, especially in the national parks. Commercial campgrounds operated by small businesses are also becoming more popular around Latvia. Some even have wooden installations with roof, saving you the tent to carry. However, it is hard to make them out. As of 2021, there is a law that allows passage and picking mushrooms, berries, nuts and weeds (but not camping) in any forested land, be it private or state-owned. Passage is allowed along any river or lake (4 meters wide strip) on private properties. ==Work== Finding work is not a complicated task, especially if you are a citizen of another EU country, however it is worth keeping in mind that salaries are much lower compared to those in most other EU countries. Job advertisements are often posted in Latvian newspapers such as [http://www.diena.lv/ Diena] (on Tuesday and Saturday editions). Most listings are in Latvian, with some in English, Russian, German or French. Most people use [https://algaskalkulators.com online salary calculator] to calculate net salary amount after taxes. For information about obtaining a residence permit, please see [http://www.pmlp.gov.lv/en/home/services/residence-permits/ The Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs] (''Pilsonības un migrācijas lietu pārvalde''). ==Stay safe== It is generally safe to travel around Latvia on your own, although some petty crime exists. If travelling by bike, watch out for bicycle theft. Cyclists are a small minority in Latvian traffic, and dedicated bike lanes are rare. It is common practice that bikes drive on the pavement in larger cities. If travelling by car, try not to leave valuable things in plain sight in your car. Stay alert when driving on smaller roads, especially through forests, as wild animals may wander around. It is particularly important to keep that in mind during the night. Many Latvian drivers enjoy speeding and the traffic can often flow much faster than the laws allow. If travelling by foot, take care when crossing the roads as many Latvian drivers can be fairly reckless. It is considered bad mannered to consume alcoholic beverages in public, when not in bars, restaurants etc. Some places you might be fined when consuming alcoholic beverages out of a non-concealed bottle. Drunken behaviour like for example urinating in public will also get you a fine, or a night in jail. Local informational web-sites for tourists claim that, in terms of safety, there is almost no difference between big cities and country areas. Although it is true that anywhere in Latvia one is never too far from a town or a city, seeking help in case of emergency may be somewhat more difficult in the countryside (for foreign tourists), as few people speak English there. This is somewhat balanced by the fact that even then locals are quite friendly and ready to help. When visiting bars and restaurants, especially in [[Riga]], check out the prices before ordering and follow your bill to ensure no extra fees are silently added. Beware the [[common scams]], use your common sense. There are reports of scammers striking up random conversations and inviting tourists to visit their "favourite club" or "favourite bar", often leading to the mafia robbing the tourists with the police reportedly unhelpful to those scammed. As a result of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, expressing support for Russia is '''illegal''' in Latvia, and the government has set up a hotline for people to report anyone heard expressing pro-Russia sentiments. ===Swimming=== {{see also|Water safety}} Always adhere to inscriptions and flags on sea beaches, which might prohibit swimming on a specific day or in specific weather. The sea can sometimes be quite deceiving: Northern currents can bring very cold water (even 4–5°C in July) to Latvian coasts on a hot day; the cold water can cause shock in the body and can end tragically. It is very dangerous to swim close to piers even in calm weather — sea currents, hitting the pier, form whirlpools that even a strong swimmer might not get out of. Also, there is unreasonably high death toll, caused by swimming in lakes and rivers during summer and winter. Adhere to good advice when swimming. ===Emergency numbers=== * '''112''' — the common emergency number, just like in other EU countries * '''110''' — state police * '''113''' — ambulance * '''114''' — natural gas related emergencies ==Stay healthy== You can turn to any '''doctor or hospital''' at any time during your stay. Depending on the circumstances, you may need to pay a fee for receiving urgent care. In a sparsely-inhabited, remote area, it may be difficult to obtain medical care due to the low number of air ambulance helicopters in the country. Having a first aid kit around during those times is a good idea. The '''112''' (emergency service number) operators will be able to assist you in Latvian, English and Russian and will be able to either dispatch a team to you or connect you to the appropriate emergency services, if required. Doctors usually are able to speak fluent Latvian and Russian. Some may not have good English skills. This mostly depends on the region and the age of the doctor. You are suggested to bring your own medicine, if you require it, as there are few drugs that are available without a prescription. Many doctors take undisclosed fees in the form of gifts from the patients ranging from a box of chocolates to raw cash. This is usually due to patients recognizing doctors receive low wages and feel the urge of expressing their gratitude. While this is made illegal by local law, it is estimated that 1 in 4 doctors has taken or is taking such donations when seeing patients. You should seek immediate medical attention if bitten by a '''snake, a domestic or a wild animal'''. Snakes are not venomous in Latvia with the exception of the European adder. The common adder is not generally aggressive unless startled and feels like it must defend itself. The toxicity of the venom is relatively low, but you should seek professional medical care as soon as possible regardless of that. Bites by animals, such as dogs and cats, can carry the risk of rabies and you should seek medical care as soon as possible. Mosquito bites do not carry any risk of disease, just causing irritation of the skin. Common sense is to resist scratching the itch. Mosquitoes are generally active during the Summer season and are not around during the colder Winter months at all. '''Ticks''' exist in Latvia and are most active from May to September. They are mostly located in brushwood areas and forests, but can sometimes even be found in town parks. Upon discovering that you have been bitten by a tick, medical attention should be sought. Ticks carry the risk of tick-borne encephalitis (can be quite common; vaccination is possible before the season) and Lyme disease (less common; must be treated in a timely and adequate manner to avoid disabling symptoms). '''Tap water''' is generally safe to drink. However, many locals, especially in larger cities, still prefer to either boil the water before drinking or simply buy bottled water from stores instead. ==Respect== Latvians in general are fairly reserved and generally respect others' personal space, for example, Latvians do not usually greet strangers unless introduced by someone. As with many countries in Europe, inquiring about someone's '''salary''' or talking about your own is uncommon and not recommended. Similarly, personal, political, or religious '''convictions''' are no-go areas until you're better acquainted with someone. Littering is considered bad manners and is against the law. Offenders may be fined. It is considered polite in Latvian culture to hold a door open for someone, let others board a bus or a train first etc. This applies to men letting women go first in particular. [[File:Laimas krusts Lielvardes josta.jpg|thumb|upright|Swastika as a common element of souvenir scarfs]] The swastika symbol (Latvian: ''ugunskrusts'' or ''pērkonkrusts'', "fire cross" or "thunder cross") is a common ornament in embroideries in Latvian folk costumes and contemporary souvenirs and was considered a pagan religious symbol for centuries. It is supposed to bring luck, energy and fire. There is no connection of this symbol to Nazi Germany, and any attempts to hint at one will be considered offensive. You should be careful when talking to Latvians '''about politics and history''', especially about the [[Soviet Union]]. As Latvia became a Soviet republic after [[World War II]], many Latvians, especially of the older generations, have strong opinions about the topic. There is an annual ceremony in March commemorating the veterans of the '''Latvian Legion'''; while it fought as part of the German Waffen-SS (its Latvian members having mostly been drafted by the occupiers), its role in fighting the Soviet occupation is generally seen as more important. The '''legal status of ethnic Russians''' in Latvia is also a sensitive issue, as a lot of them are stateless permanent residents, and the Latvian government requires them to pass a Latvian language test to be eligible for citizenship. Many ethnic Russians regard this as discriminatory, while fair amount of ethnic Latvians regard them as illegal immigrants who moved to Latvia under Soviet occupation, and insist that the government is being exceedingly generous in even allowing them to remain in Latvia in the first place. Many ethnic Russians, especially older generations, get their news from state-controlled Russian media. This means they to a large extent share [[Russia#Sensitive_issues|the sensitive issues that prevail in Russia]]. ==Connect== ===Telephone === {| class="wikitable" style="float: right; width:35%;" |- ! ! Bite ! LMT ! ZZ ! Tele2 |- ! 5G | style="color:black; background:#ffff90; text-align:center" | [https://www.bite.lv/lv/parklajums 3 cities] | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | [https://karte.lmt.lv/ all big cities] | style="color:black; background:#F99; text-align:center" | not yet | style="color:black; background:#F99; text-align:center" | not yet |- ! Tethering | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | yes | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | yes | style="text-align:center" | unknown | style="text-align:center" | unknown |- ! unlimited data | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | yes | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | yes | style="text-align:center" | unknown | style="text-align:center" | unknown |- ! eSIM | style="color:black; background:#ffff90; text-align:center" | [https://www.bite.lv/lv/esim smart watches only] | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | [https://www.lmt.lv/lv/esim yes] | style="color:black; background:#F99; text-align:center" | no | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | [https://www.tele2.lv/esim/ yes] |- ! VoLTE | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | since 2022 | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | since 2021 | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | since 2023 | style="color:black; background:#9F9; text-align:center" | since 2023 |} The country code for Latvia is '''+371'''. If you plan to stay in Latvia for more than a couple of days, it may be cheaper to buy a local SIM card including voice, text and data. Prepaid SIM cards and separate renewal vouchers can be bought in almost all gas stations, kiosks and supermarkets. All operators are generally similar in their pricing and offered services. eSIM is not widespread yet. There are only 4 operators (listed alphabetically): * '''[https://www.bite.lv/lv/tarifu-plani Bite]''' (no English) * '''[https://lmt.lv/en/main LMT]''' (not fully in English) * '''[https://www.tele2.lv/tarifi/ Tele2]''' (no English) ** '''[https://zeltazivtina.lv/en/ Zelta Zivtiņa, ZZ]''' (subbrand of Tele2; has English) Tele2 and Bite have a network sharing agreement, gradually merging their networks in Latvia and Lithuania. If you plan to stay in Latvia for several months, then it is definitely cheaper and more convenient to get a contract (post-paid service). You can get a contract with truly unlimited internet traffic for {{EUR|22|when=2020-12-01}} – no speed curtail with heavy use – and unlimited domestic "normal" calls and SMS. There are at least 2 operators that provide unlimited internet on weekly basis for {{EUR|3}}/week (without speed curtail), which is extremely flexible and cheap. For an unknown reason, Latvian mobile operators are quite desperate for clients (maybe because of the small population), and they try to gain competitors' clients. If you have stayed for longer than a year and you have post-paid contract, you can often get discounts with your operator of up to 50% by "threatening" to change operator. === Internet=== Free WiFi is often available in hotels, cafés, libraries, intercity buses and the Riga International Airport. Ask by the cash register or information desk if there does not seem to be an open network available. ====Copyright issues==== File sharing, p2p or streaming of copyright-protected content is illegal in Latvia, but users that download torrents for personal use are never prosecuted or tracked. Shaping of p2p-traffic is very uncommon. === Postal service === [[File:Latvia Post.jpg|thumb|A post box in Latvia]] The postal service in Latvia is run by '''[https://pasts.lv/en/ Latvijas Pasts]'''. Post offices can be found [https://mans.pasts.lv/postal-network all over the country]. Post boxes are blue and yellow with the postal logo, and most of them are emptied once every workday, a few of them even on Sundays and holidays. The Latvian postal service is reliable, but sending anything but postcards and letters can feel quite bureaucratic to Westerners. Long queues are a common thing in post offices, so it might will save you up to 30 minutes if you use [https://pasts.lv/en/For_Individuals/Useful_Information/apply-for-services-from-any-location/ their mobile app] to reserve a place in queue. As of January 2026 a postcard or an ordinary letter up to 20 grams is {{EUR|2.35}} within Latvia, {{EUR|3}} for destinations within the EU and {{EUR|4.41}} for rest of the world. Ordering from countries outside of EEA and EU one additionally has to pay VAT to get the parcel through customs: it can be done on the [https://eds.vid.gov.lv Latvian Revenue Service website]. == Go next == * [[Lithuania]], the southernmost Baltic state and Latvia's brotherly nation, with castles (much like in Latvia) and the relaxed capital [[Vilnius]], easiest to reach by bus. * [[Estonia]], northernmost Baltic state, with a lot of islands, beautiful landscapes, and a language related to Finnish. Can be reached by bus or train. * [[Sweden]] and [[Finland]], and from there the rest of [[Scandinavia]] can be reached by the many ferries operating across the Baltic sea. * The airport of Riga has many connections with other countries in Europe. {{isPartOf|Baltic states}} {{outlinecountry}} {{Geo|57|25|zoom=7}} aypys16xp2ck6a3a9fbde0iii2dnwu7 0 20429 5288870 5260046 2026-06-06T14:08:09Z ~2026-33331-51 2419048 /* Budget */ Updated listing for Vong Champa Guesthouse 5288870 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Luang Prabang banner Bank of Mekong river.jpg|dotm=yes|unesco=yes|caption=The town on the banks of the Mekong.}} '''Luang Prabang''' ([[Lao phrasebook|Lao]]: ''ຫຼວງພຣະບາງ'', pronounced ''Loo-ang pah-bang'' and also spelled ''Louangphrabang'') is the former capital of [[Laos]] and a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|UNESCO World Heritage]] city. ==Understand== [[File:View of Mount Phou Si and Mekong bank at sunset seen from Wat Chomphet in Luang Prabang Laos.jpg|thumb|Mount Phou Si (Phousi Hill) and the Mekong in Luang Prabang as seen at sunset from Wat Chomphet]] Set at the confluence of two rivers that almost surround the town, and beneath a temple-topped hill, Luang Prabang is a wonderful patchwork of traditional Lao wooden houses and hints of European architecture, reminders of when Laos was part of the French colony of [[Indochina]]. Golden-roofed wats (temples), decorated with mosaics and murals of the life of Buddha, sit under the gaze of wrap-around teak balconies and 19th-century shuttered windows. All of this is set against a backdrop of verdant greenery and rugged mountains. Luang Prabang is a relatively small city with an atmospheric and charming personality. With [[UNESCO World Heritage List|UNESCO]] so closely involved and a largely responsible group of local business owners, the pressures of mass tourism have been held at bay, but for how much longer remains to be seen. Restaurants in the main street cater for luxury tourists. More typical Lao venues can still be found along the Mekong. From late February to April, slash-and-burn agriculture creates a smoky haze that can irritate eyes and lungs, obscuring the scenery. ===History=== Luang Prabang rose to prominence as the capital of the first Lao kingdom (''Lan Xang'', land of the million elephants) from 1353. The city owes its present name to the ''Pha Bang'', a revered Buddha image (now in the Royal Palace Museum) which was brought to the city by King Visoun during the golden age of ''Lan Xang'' in the early 1500s. The fragmentation of the Lao kingdom at the end of the 16th century left Luang Prabang a militarily weak independent city state paying tribute to surrounding kingdoms. The 1887 sacking of the city by the Chinese Haw led the Luang Prabang monarchy to accept the "protection" of the French, whose influence led to the construction of the many fine colonial villas that sit harmoniously alongside traditional Lao architecture. The Kingdom of Luang Prabang lasted from 1707 until it was reorganised by the French into French Indochina in 1947. From 1896 until its dissolution the royal family of the Kingdom of Luang Prabang remained in the city however they were merely figureheads, with the real power residing with the French Resident-General. The French also chose members of the royal court. This however gave the city a small degree of separation from the rest of Laos, which was directly controlled by the French. The city fell into decline in the latter half of the 20th century following the reluctant withdrawal of the French, and the 1975 revolution which brought an end to the Luang Prabang monarchy. The relative poverty of newly independent Laos perhaps helped save Luang Prabang from the ravages of 20th-century city planning. The reopening of Laos to tourism in 1989 resulted in a remarkable turnaround in the city's fortunes, as crumbling timber houses and colonial mansions were sensitively restored and transformed into immaculate guesthouses and boutique hotels. In 1995 the city was placed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]]. However as of 2024 UNESCO raised concerns regarding overdevelopment of the city, leaving open the possibility of removing the city from the World Heritage List. == Get in == Luang Prabang International Airport is a visa-on-arrival and e-Visa entry point. See [[Laos#Get in]] for details. Visa extensions are possible at the immigration office opposite the Rama Hotel. The cost is US$2/day plus a US$2 form fee. The process is very easy. Turn up in the morning with your passport and one photo. Fill in a form (in Luang Prabang they do this for you) and come back in the afternoon for your extension. ===By plane === {{go | name=Luang Prabang International Airport | alt={{IATA|LPQ}} | url=http://www.luangprabangairport.com/ | email= | address= | lat=19.90134 | long=102.16817 | directions=4 km north of town | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Luang Prabang International Airport | image=| wikidata=Q1077327 |lastedit=2023-07-22| content=Laos's second largest airport, and as of 2023 offers services to several destinations in the region, including [[Bangkok]], [[Chiang Mai]], [[Hanoi]], [[Siem Reap]], and [[Vientiane]]. }} A tuk-tuk costs 80-100,000 kip (Mar 2020). There is a taxi counter at the exit of the arrival hall. Taxis are a flat rate of 80,000 kip for 1–2 people (as of Dec 2022). If you're traveling light, a walk from the airport to the town center takes about 1 hour. There are four ATMs just outside the arrival hall. ===By train=== {{main|Laos–China Railway}} [[File:Luang Prabang railway station.jpg|thumb|Luang Prabang railway station]] Train is by far the fastest, most comfortable way to reach Luang Prabang, but demand consistently outstrips supply and it can be hard to buy a ticket. See [[Laos–China Railway]] for the latest and consider booking through a travel agent. Five fast standard-gauge trains run daily from Vientiane via Phonhong and [[Vang Vieng]], taking two hours to Luang Prabang. Three or four continue north to [[Muang Xay]], [[Luang Namtha]] and [[Boten]] on the border with China. Another train crosses, allowing four hours for border formalities at Boten / Mo Han, then onward to [[Kunming]] South Station for high-speed connections across China. The southbound train leaves Kunming at 08:00 to reach Luang Prabang by 15:50 and Vientiane for 17:40. {{marker | type=go | name=Luang Prabang railway station | lat=19.871 | long=102.213 }} is 12&nbsp;km east of the old city. A seat on a shared minibus costs a fixed 40,000 kip (US$2, November 2024). You find the minibuses once you leave the train station and go down the stairs. There are tents where you can buy the tickets for the minibus. To get to the station from the city center, have your guesthouse or hostel call the minivan for you (do not follow the timetable from the van stop). The railway station is huge and clean. As of January 2024, there are toilets, Cafe Amazon, Dairy Queen and a small 7-Eleven to buy drinks and snacks, as well as two ATMs outside the station entrance (to your left.) Beware if you get dropped off at the train station gate, as taxis need to pay 30k kip to enter, so you will have a long walk including up lots of stairs to the station. There is a lift at the carpark to the station above, but it seems to be out of order much of time. So if you get dropped off there, you still have to climb the many stairs with your luggage. The green mini buses take you to the station level. Ideally your train will stop at platform 1 for easy access. If platform 2, then you will have to go down the stairs or escalators with your luggage, walk to platform 2, then up again. ===By bus === There are two bus stations: '''Naluang''' International Bus Station on the main road 2.6 km south west of the town; '''Northern''' Bus Station near the airport 3.3 km from the town. Tuk tuk should cost no more than 50,000 kip from town to either. Tickets booked at travel agent or hotels may cost as much as 100,000 kip above the bus terminal/stations ticket counter price, with little added real added value. Essentially the agent arranges a tuk tuk to take you from your hotel to the bus terminal, at which point they buy a minibus ticket for you. For this 'convenience' the tuk tuk usually collects you one hour prior to the scheduled minibus departure, which can then delayed. Tuk tuk should cost no more than 50,000 kip from anywhere in the town to any bus station. Book tickets in advance, particularly for VIP buses as they have reserved seats. You don't want to end up sitting next to the toilet. * [[Chiang Mai]] - this bus direct to Chiang Mai costs 1,500 [[Thailand#Money|baht]] one-way. Total journey time is 18 hours. The bus will use the new Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge from Huay Xai to Chiang Kong. * [[Vang Vieng]] - the air conditioned VIP bus costs approximately 150,000 kip, the same price as the Vientiane bus. Minibuses leave from Vang Vieng at 09:00 and cost 100,000 kip. The minibus station is just north of the city. The trip takes 6–7 hours (not the 5 that travel agents advertise). Rte 13, along which the bus travels, passes through the mountains and twists and turns uncomfortably for most of the journey. Additionally as of early 2025 this road is in bad repair, however the stretch between Vang Vieng and Vientiane is in excellent shape. * [[Vientiane]] - air-con VIP with reclining seats costs 150,000 kip while an air-con VIP sleeper bus costs 165,000 kip if booked through an agent. Express buses (no air-con) bought at the station are 110,000 kip. Tickets purchased in Vientiane to Luang Prabang are more expensive than those purchased in Luang Prabang. A 12-hr trip, not 9 hr as they claim, a total of 13 hours including the 1-hr meal time. :The bus follows Rte 13 south, which has been upgraded and is now pretty comfortable. Comparing pluses and minuses for VIP sleeper/VIP seats to Express for night trips, not much difference. If taking the trip at night, there is no need for air-con. Those prone to motion sickness should know that this trip travels a winding, mountainous road. :For seats-only buses, there is no toilet and you should relieve yourself before departing because the stopover at the restaurant is 4 hours away, and the last is at the destination station. Check though, because not all tour companies offer free pick-up from a passenger's residence in the quoted price. * [[Muang Xay]] - takes about 5 hours. Costs 40,000 kip and points onward, such as [[Luang Namtha]], are travelled by public minibus only. Big backpacks are carried on the roof. Reservations are usually not necessary. Go early in order to secure a good seat. * [[Luang Namtha]] - takes 8–9 hours and costs 90,000 kip. Parts of the road leading from Oudomxay (intermediate stop between Luang Prabang and Luang Namtha) are still under construction and are quite bumpy. Direct local bus via [[Muang Xay]] at 09:00. Otherwise take a bus to [[Muang Xay]] and switch there. * [[Nong Khiaw]] - 3 hours away by public bus from the Northern Bus Station or 8-10 hr by boat for about 110,000 kip. From there boats connect to scenic [[Muang Ngoi Neua]]. * [[Huay Xai]] - up to 15 hours away. Public buses leave at 09:00 (arriving at 24:00) or 17:00 (arriving at 08:00. A normal sleeping bus, not a sleeper). Costs 135,000 kip. VIP buses leave on alternating days, tickets purchased at the Northern Bus Station will cost 35,000 kip, less than if purchased at an agent in town. * [[Phonsavan]] - Minivan departs from Naluang bus terminal at 0830hr and takes 11 hours (!) for the 260km trip (Road 13 then Road 7) due to extremely poor road conditions. ticket 255,000 kip from bus terminal (Jul 2024). Or arrange via your hotel or travel agency to be picked up and taken to the minibus station. You can stay on the minibus until it unloads the local people in the centre of Luang Prabang though tuk-tuk drivers may try to make you get off earlier at the bus station. Minivan terminates at Xiengkhouang Bus Station in Phonsavan which is more than 2km from Phonsavan town. *[[Hanoi]] by long-distance bus (make sure you have the Vietnamese visa beforehand), 360,000 kip, 24 hours direct bus. If you require a Vietnamese visa, there is a Vietnamese Consulate in town that can issue visas (next day US$70). If heading to Hanoi, you can buy a ticket from a tour agent, or walk to the Southern Bus Station (30-min walk) and buy it yourself cheaper. You shouldn't buy the ticket at the station itself, but opposite the station you'll see some buses waiting and there will be an office of the Naluang Travel Company. They are the ones who operate the buses, so if you buy anywhere else the ticket will be more expensive. They claim to sell a ticket to Hanoi at the Northern Bus Station and for only 150,000 kip, but this will take you only to the border and then you'll be left at the mercy of the local drivers who can charge you any amount, since you're in the middle of nowhere. Don't mistake the Northern bus station with the Southern. *[[Loei]] - This connection goes once a day to the province capital Loei in Thailand. Buses leave Loei at 08:00 and the return journey from Luang Prabang leaves at 07:00. The fare is 700 baht one way and journey time is approximately 10 hours. From Loei there are 4 overnight buses and one day bus to Bangkok. For those going directly from Luang Prabang to Bangkok this allows to bypass Vientiane. '''BanNaluang Bus Station (South Bus Station)''' <!--to edit the timetable, simply find the town and replace the old with the new information. To add a town,copy a complete section from |- to |- (excluding one of the marks.--> {| class="wikitable" ! To ! Departs ! Kip ! Duration (hr) ! Comments ! Updated |- |[[Sainyabuli]] |09:00, 14:00 |100,000 | | |<small>Jan 2023</small> |- |[[Phonsavan]] (Local) |08:30 |80,000 | | |<small>Jun 2011</small> |- |[[Phonsavan]] (air-con) |08:30 |95,000 | | |<small>Mar 2020</small> |- |[[Phonsavan]] (VIP) |08:30 |255,000 | | |<small>Jul 2024</small> |- |[[Vang Vieng]] (air-con) |09:30 |90,000 |6-7 hr | |<small>Jun 2011</small> |- |[[Vang Vieng]] (VIP) |09:30 |105,000 | | |<small>Jun 2011</small> |- |[[Vientiane]] (Local) |06:30, 08:30, 11:00, 14:00, 16:30, 17:00, 18:30 |110,000 | | |<small>Jun 2011</small> |- |[[Vientiane]] (VIP) |08:00, 09:00 (?), 19:30, 20:30 |145,000 |12 hr | |<small>Jun 2013</small> |- |[[Vinh]] (Vietnam) |W and Sa, 18:30 |200,000 | | |<small>Jun 2011</small> |- |[[Hanoi]] (Vietnam) |Daily except Th, 18:00 |360,000 |24 hr | |<small>May 2012</small> |} A shared tuk-tuk from the South station to your hotel in town will cost 20,000 kip per person (Mar 2020). ===By car=== Hwy 13 connects Luang Prabang to [[Vang Vieng]] and [[Vientiane]] in the south and via Hwy 1 to the north. Hwy 13 is sealed and in relatively good shape during dry season all the way to Vientiane. Simply put, it is a long, bumpy and winding road trip. The road smacks of a lunar landscape and there are countless potholes due to poor quality surface, the top layer eroded to reveal the gravelly underlayer, which means a really bumpy ride. Although there have been incidents of violence along this stretch of road, it is now safe. ===By boat=== Boats ply the Mekong to and from [[Huay Xai]] at the Thai border, stopping in [[Pakbeng]] where you can catch overland connections towards the northeast and the border with [[China]]. The trip takes 2 days (each day about 9 hours) by slow boat, or 6 bone-rattling hours by speedboat. There are also operators offering 2-day "luxury" cruises. Expect to spend the night in Pakbeng if you're taking a slow boat (the safest option), or to arrive in Luang Prabang deaf, shaken and either exhausted or exhilarated from six hours in a speedboat. There is also a twice-weekly "one day comfortable boat" between Luang Prabang and Huay Xai, but the cost is significantly higher. ====Slow boats==== The slow boat trip proceeds in a pleasant 20–30 km/hr and offers nice views of nature and village life on the banks of the Mekong. Most of the passengers are foreign tourists drinking Beerlao and taking photos. Occasional locals take the boat only for short hops between the riverside villages, but prefer to take the bus. So you won't be able to observe many local boat travellers. But the nature will be spectacular and on some stops local children will come aboard to sell trinklets. The slow boat is generally packed, so much so that there may not enough seats to go round. Arriving early will mean a longer day, but most likely a better seat, towards the front and away from the engine. Your ticket will have a seat number on it and sometimes they will mark the seats with a number written on a piece of paper, but this is not enforced by the crew. It is first come - first served. You need to remove your footwear before entering the boat. The Slow boat Pier is inconveniently located non-walkable distance (more than an hour) outside of town, forcing you to use the local taxis or tuk-tuks. The cost of shared tuk-tuk is 40,000 kip per person (Dec 2024). They fill a tuk-tuk with 10 people and drive to the city centre (the Night Market entrance). They do not leave you at your accommodation. The city is small though and you can walk the rest of the way. ==== Up river ==== The boats leave every day, the last one at 11:00. The trip from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai costs at least 220,000 kip (Mar 2014). The slow boat leaves Luang Prabang at about 08:30, from a pier that is 10 km away from the town centre (a tuk-tuk costs 40,000+ kip (Dec 2024) per person) and arrives around 18:00 at Pakbeng. It is common to have to switch to a different boat in Pakbeng, so you may end up in a boat of higher or lower quality for the second half of the journey. If they check your ticket on the first leg of the trip ''do not let them keep the ticket''. The second leg will be a different boat with different crew and they'll insist you buy a new ticket if you don't have it. Two day boats have comfortable (car) seats and it is no longer necessary to purchase any cushions. Arriving in Huay Xai, it's best to take a quick tuk-tuk from the border crossing to the city centre for 100 baht. ==== Down river ==== Huay Xay-Pakbeng-Luang Prabang tickets purchased directly at the Huay Xay slow boat pier are 400,000 kip (Dec 2024), which is a bargain for one of the most scenic trips in the world. The ticketing office has inconsistent working hours, if you don't catch it open in the morning try 14:00-16:00. You can also book through your accommodation for ~$1 more. There is no need to book ahead a 2-day ticket all the way to Luang Prabang in Huay Xay. You can also just buy a ticket to Pakbeng (200,000 kip (Dec 2024)) and the onward journey to Luang Prabang upon boarding in Pakbeng (200,000 kip (Dec 2024)). If purchashing the full trip ticket beware of the '''double-purchase scam'''. If they check your ticket on the first leg of the trip ''under no circuimstances let them keep the ticket'' (which is customary for conductors of all sorts to do in Laos). This is because the next leg of the trip is going to be a different boat and different crew and they will insist you buy a new ticket if you don't have one. As of Dec 2024 the boats leave at 9:00 (used to be 11:00), making it impossible to catch the earliest bus from Chiang Rai and still catch the slow boat. You are now forced to spend the night in Huay Xay. See the [[Pakbeng]] page for more information on the slowboats. There is no public boat service to Vientiane, but it may be possible to do the trip by private tourist boat when the water levels are high enough. Read more about fast and slow boats in the [[Laos]] country guide. ====Speedboats==== If you choose to travel on the '''speedboat''' (a light canoe with a very powerful engine), a crash helmet and life-jacket should be provided. It is not recommended you travel in a speedboat without this essential safety equipment. It is also recommended that you make your bags as waterproof or water-resistant as possible and wear a rain jacket. The boat can generate quite a bit of spray, plus any showers you might encounter along the way will sting like needles against any exposed skin. On sunny days, sunscreen is invaluable as there is no roof or shade on these speed machines. The journey to Huay Xai can be reduced to as few as 4 hours in the wet season, with a lunch stop at Pak Beng. However, some consider this means of transportation less safe, especially in the dry season. Earplugs are strongly recommended. Those who are concerned about creating as little environmental impact as possible may want avoid speedboats, as they are heavier polluters than the slower options. Travel agents in LP will sell the tickets for 320,000-370,000 kip. You will need a minivan to take you the 10&nbsp;km north to the fast boat pier. There seems to be a reluctance to take foreigners on the speedboat. You sit there watching as speedboat after speedboat leaves without you on them. The phrases "come back tomorrow" and "just wait, wait", are repeated a lot. If you are in a hurry, an extra payment may encourage an earlier departure. This is definitely not a means of transport to be relied on. It is a good idea to work out with your fellow boat passengers to remove the seat dividers in the fast boat which allow you more space to move around as long as you don't mind a bit of contact. It will be better than being jammed in one place for the whole trip. The speed boats have been pulling a scam where you are dropped off 10&nbsp;km outside of Luang Prabang at a small bamboo dock. Refuse to get off here and force them to take you two minutes further down river to the Luang Prabang boat dock. If you are forced to get off before Luang Prabang, the tuk-tuk driver may demand up to US$15 per person. The cost should not be more than US$5 for everyone in your party, but the tuk-tuk is your only option into town. ====Luxury cruise==== The third option is to take a luxury cruise. The major operators are [http://www.luangsay.com Luang Say]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://nagiofmekong.com/ Nagi of Mekong], and [https://shompoo-cruise.com/en/ Shompoo], all of which operate two-day cruises from/to [[Huay Xai]] that stop in [[Pakbeng]] for the night. Although the journey takes as long as taking the slow boat, these operators offer vastly superior facilities and equipment than public slow boats, and you should be prepared to pay a premium for it. Tickets for all operators can be bought at most travel agents in town. Prices per person, including twin-share accommodation in Pak Beng, vary from US$160 (Nagi) to US$425 (Luang Say), but prices fluctuate widely depending on season and demand. All cruises follow roughly the same itinerary. Departure from Huay Xai pier is around 9 AM, with a stop to observe rural life along the Mekong and observe minorities. The journey to Pakbeng takes 7 to 8 hours, arriving in Pakbeng before sunset. On the second day the boat leaves at 08:00. A short stop is made to visit a hilltribe village where you can watch the traditional process of Lao whisky production. After lunch the boat stops at ''Pak Ou village'' at the mouth of the Nam Ou River, where you visit the ''Tam Thing Caves of a Thousand Buddhas''. The boat arrives at Luang Prabang between 16:00 and 17:00. == Get around == {{Mapframe | 19.900 | 102.150 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=13 }} Luang Prabang's Old Town is only about 1.5 km long and 500 m wide, which makes it small enough to comfortably cover on foot, and this is in fact the only way to climb Phousi Hill. The city is also quite flat, which makes cycling an attractive option, although the ever-increasing traffic makes this dangerous at times. For longer trips, your options are basically negotiating with open-air tuk-tuks, or arranging a tour package with your hotel or a travel agent, which will likely see you crammed into one of the ubiquitous silver Toyota minivans. (Large buses and trucks are both banned in the old town.) Prices for both are always per person unless you explicitly negotiate a charter. [https://loca.la/ Loca] ridehailing is also available. * {{listing | type=get | name=Green Bus shuttle station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.8822 | long=102.127 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A cheap way to get Kuang Si Falls and other attractions on the way, is to catch the new green mini bus (Oct 2025). Buy a one way ticket for 45k kip or 90k return. Buses leave their bus station in Thatluang Park at 08:00, 09:30, 10:30, 12:00, 13:30 and 15:00. You can leave your bike here (bring a lock), making an easy way to connect with the buses starting point. They also have buses to and from the train station for 30k kip, if you arrive at Luang Prabang and see about 4 green mini buses, they might be a cheap easy option into town. }} * {{listing | type=get | name=Bicycle Rental | alt= | url= | email= | address=LP Holiday Travel Co on Kingkitsalat Rd | lat=19.888 | long=102.13444 | directions=adjacent a school | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=60k per day | lastedit= | content=This place rents mountain bikes and City Bikes, some with rear kids seats. }} == See == ===Arts and crafts=== * {{see | name=Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Centre | alt= | url=https://www.ockpoptok.com/ | email= | address=Ban Saylom | lat=19.8783 | long=102.1210 | directions=on the banks of the Mekong 2 km south of the city | phone=+856 71 212 597 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=An informative free tour to all visitors (last tour at 16:30). Operating as a fair trade traditional weaving centre, you can take classes in bamboo/textile weaving, dye your own silk, draw your own batik or just relax at the Mekong garden cafe. A free tuk-tuk departs daily from the Ock Pop Tok shop in the city at 10:00, 12:00 and 14:00, with other times possible by agreement. }} * {{see | name=Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre | alt= | url=https://www.taeclaos.org/ | email=information@taeclaos.org | address=Ban Khamyong | lat=19.8886 | long=102.1353 | directions= | phone=+856 71 253 364 | tollfree= | hours= | price=30,000 kip | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=This small, but perfectly formed museum is dedicated to the ethnic cultures of Laos. Find out more about the groups that make Laos unique and enrich your visit to Luang Prabang. Closed on Mondays, and occasionally other times for exhibitions. On site shop and cafe, with an outlet shop close to the Ock Pop Tok shop. }} * {{see | name=Heuan Chan Heritage House | alt= | url=https://www.heritageluangprabang.com/ | email= | address= | lat=19.89288 | long=102.13664 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-17:00 | price=30,000 kip | lastedit=2024-01-13 | content=A museum with one of the few remaining pre-colonisation houses. It also features an area to dress in costumes, learn different crafting technique and quite a good cafe for lunch. }} ===Local landmarks and culture=== [[File:Luang Prabang Monks Alm Dawn 01.jpg|thumb|Alms ceremony]] [[File:Haw Kam.jpg|thumb|Haw Pha Bang]] [[File:WatSen.jpg|thumb|Wat Sensoukharam]] [[File:Temple Wat Xieng Thong - Luang Prabang - Laos.jpg|thumb|Wat Xieng Thong]] * {{see | name=Alms ceremony | alt=Sai Bat | url= | email= | address=Sisavangvong Rd | lat=19.8937 | long=102.1396 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 05:00-06:00 | price= | content=Monks at dawn collect alms of rice from kneeling villagers (and early-rising tourists). Ask your guesthouse host to assist you the day before in preparing if you'd like to get up and give alms in the morning. The alms giving ceremony is one which, while picturesque, is not without its detractors. Unscrupulous local merchants have used the eagerness of tourists to participate in this tradition as a means of making easy money. They sometimes sell unsuitable, stale and even unsafe food, resulting in monks falling ill after having consumed the offerings, Hence the growing resistance to continuing the tradition. The government, however, has made it clear that the monks must continue the custom or be replaced by lay persons clothed in saffron robes in order to keep up appearances, thereby maintaining tourist revenue. If you wish to participate in this ceremony, prepare the food or fruit yourself. Avoid giving food of dodgy quality. Another problem is the rampant photography: while a photo might look nice in your collection, think about how it must feel for the monks to have hundreds of tourists photographing them every day. Some lowlifes even stand next to the monks, blinding them with flashbulbs. Consider watching this old tradition from a distance instead of degrading it. }} * {{see | name=Royal Palace National Museum | alt=ຫໍຄຳ Haw Kham | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.8921 | long=102.1356 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=08:00-11:30 and 13:30-16:00 | price=30,000 kip | wikidata=Q3361219 | lastedit=2022-10-27 | content=The former royal palace, now a national museum. It is not a national history museum however. You pass through the state rooms and the private rooms of the royal family and can see the collection of official cars. No photos, videos, bags, or shoes allowed, free locker provided. No bare shoulders, midriffs or knees; you can rent a cloth for 5,000 kip at the locker room if needed. Also on the grounds of the palace is the former royal temple. }} * {{see | name=Royal Ballet Theatre | alt=ຫໍຄຳ Haw Kham | url= http://phralakphralam.com/phralak_phralam_en/spectacle/ | email= | address= | lat=19.8909 | long=102.1353 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Oct-Mar: 18:00, Mar-Oct: 16:30 | price=200,000 kip, 50% for children | lastedit=2023-12-23 | content=Every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evening there is a show featuring one part of the Lao epic Phra Lak Phra Ram. The show is about an hour long and in Lao with story and dance sequences. There are Lao, English and French synopsis available at the ticket desk. The ticket desk opens at least 1/2 an hour before the show and is accessed by entering Royal Palace Museum entrance gate. The museum is closed at this time so entry is free. Curiously the ticket desk is not attended while the museum is open, although they do have the schedule and current ticket prices. Also, the website has a form for tickets, but they do not seem to respond to it. }} * {{see | name=Phou Si Hill | alt=ພະທາດພູສີ | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.8904 | long=102.1369 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=20,000 kip (children free) | wikipedia=Phou Si | wikidata=Q7187956 | lastedit=2023-12-23 | content=Phou Si Hill dominates the city, and you can get a great view of the whole area from the summit. There are trails from both sides of the hill, including one just across the road from the Royal Palace/National Museum, and it's about 320 steps to the top. Sunrise and sunset are the most sensible and rewarding times to go. There is a near-panoramic view from the top. The ticket office closes at 18:30, so climbing to the top is virtually free afterwards, which gives you about 30 minutes before it gets dark. If you take the south path down, you'll go past several temples including one claiming to enshrine the Buddha's (rather large!) footprint. }} * {{see | name=Haw Pha Bang | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.89175 | long=102.13644 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-22 | content= }} * {{see | name=Wat Sensoukharam | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.89537 | long=102.14161 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-22 | content= }} * {{see | name=Wat Xieng Thong | alt=ວັດຊຽງທອງ | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.8975 | long=102.143056 | directions=The entrance is on the by-lane off the main road. Towards the road along the Mekong is only an exit. | phone= | tollfree= | hours=06:00-18:00 | price=Foreigners: 30,000 kip, Lao nationals: 5,000 kip | wikipedia=Wat Xieng Thong | wikidata=Q2671118 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=The oldest monastery in town and one of the most beautiful. }} * {{see | name=Vipassana Temple and Park | alt=Wat Phon Phao;ວັດໂພນເພົາ | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.878889 | long=102.145833 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q54468244 | content=This golden temple, highly visible from Phou Si, is a shrine for Buddhists who practice Vipassana meditation. }} * {{see | name=UXO Lao Visitor Centre | alt= | url=https://www.uxolao.org/ | email= | address= | lat=19.88197 | long=102.13636 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M–F 08:00–12:00 and 13:00–16:00 | price=Free (donation box) | lastedit=2024-01-13 | content=A small information centre with samples of the various UXO (unexploded ordnance) that has been found, information about the scope of the problem and a room with a documentary to watch. Makes the issue just a bit more salient when you see it. }} ===Outside the city=== [[File:Kuang Si Falls and a turquoise water pool in Luang Prabang province Laos.jpg|thumb|The main cascade at Kuang Si]] [[File:Kuang Si Falls and its emerald water pools in Luang Prabang province Laos.jpg|thumb|Cascading pools at Kuang Si]] * {{see | name=Kuang Si Falls | alt=ຕາດ ກວາງຊີ | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.749167 | long=101.991667 | directions=Some 29 km S of Luang Prabang | phone= | tollfree= | hours=08:00-17:30 | price=Foreigners: 60,000 kip, Lao nationals: 10,000 kip | wikipedia=Kuang Si Falls | image=Kuang si falls.jpg | wikidata=Q2584261 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=The stunning Kuang Si Falls are Luang Prabang's top natural attraction. Cascading through multi-level limestone terraces, the color of the water usually varies between milky blue and a deep turquoise, although after heavy rains they can temporarily turn brown. Tuk-tuks, private or shared, green bus from Thatluang Park (45k kip one way), tours drop you at the parking area, from where free electric golf carts next to the ticket booths shuttle around 1&nbsp;km up the hill at the park entrance. From here, take the signposted "Foot Trail" to the right, which takes you through the Bear Rescue Centre (below) to the base of the waterfalls.<br />There are three tiered pools that are safe for swimming, although you'll want to wear sandals or reef shoes since the rubble can be sharp. There are some basic toilets can be used as changing rooms, as well as the pleasant Green Jungle restaurant that serves up fried rice and the like ($2 and up). If you keep going up, you'll get to the main waterfall that cascades down from a height of nearly 60 meters, a gorgeous sight especially after rain when it fans out. The paved road to the left of the park entrance leads directly here, so it's also where all the tour groups are shunted, and there are plenty of picnic tables if you've packed a lunch.<br />A small trail to the left leads via 542 steel steps to the top of the waterfalls, where you'll find a few more pools with a swing and a guy with a boat offering a 200 m punt up the river for 20,000 kip per person. There is also a treetop cafe with great view over the surrounding jungle hills (30,000 kip to enter) and a zipline that brings you back down to the lower basins (US$25). Beware that the signposted route way down the other side of the falls is much steeper than the way up and can be ''extremely'' muddy and slippery, so do not attempt this after rain or without proper shoes.<br />A seat on a shared tuk-tuk to the falls and back including 3–4 hours waiting time costs around US$6, as does a cheap scooter rental for one day, while a private charter for 4-5 runs around US$22–25. The same in an air-conditioned minivan runs around US$12/50 shared/chartered. It's worth getting here as early as you can to beat the crowds and the heat, although the forest is nice and shady. The road is twisty but paved and takes around 45 minutes one way, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops both at the ticketing point and the park entrance. Every travel agent and hotel in Luang Prabang also runs Kuang Si tours, which typically tack on a mediocre lunch and a visit to one of the elephant centers.<br />Be aware that <b>the road is very dangerous on a scooter</b>, due to the pot-holes filled with sand, as well as the hundreds of tourist-filled vans that speed up and down the road all day. Travellers have reported several horrifying scooter accidents on this road, including full-body grazes and broken bones requiring ambulance pick-up and time in hospital. }} * {{see | name=Bear Rescue Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.7510 | long=101.9959 | directions=adjacent to the path to the Kuang Si Waterfalls | phone= | tollfree= |fax=| hours= | price=No entrance fee but donations welcomed |wikidata=|lastedit=2022-11-26 | content=Operated by the [http://www.freethebears.org Free the bears] charity with various enclosure for endangered Asiatic black bears, both Moon and Sun bears, that have been rescued from poachers. Small gift shop. }} * {{see | name=Pak Ou Caves | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=20.0487 | long=102.2105 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=20,000 kip | wikipedia=Pak Ou Caves | image=Pak ou caves.JPG | wikidata=Q2671098 |lastedit=2023-06-25| content=The famous "Buddha caves" are north of the city on the Mekong and can be reached by road (approximately 1 hr), with a car there and back including waiting to you costing up to 500,000 kip, or river boat (around 1.5 hr). Alternatively, you can hire canoes and a guide for the day, which would allow you to view the beautiful scenery and visit the caves without throngs of other tourists. It's also possible to finish the trip at the "whisky village" where the local Lao lao (rice spirit) is made. There are two caves, one on the entry level and another, the upper caves, on top of the hill. A very steep climb, but worth the effort. A torch is needed to see the upper cave. Simply cross the river at Pak Ou village for 13,000 kip per person (25,000 kip if you're the only one on the boat), walk up the hill and turn right, crossing the school grounds, to find your way to the caves. Motorcycle parking at Pak Ou village 5,000 kip. }} * {{see | name=Tad Sae Waterfalls | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.8438 | long=102.22 | directions=You must take a river boat to reach the place | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=15,000 kip | wikidata=Q7687776 | content=Tiered waterfalls which are not as big as Kuang Si, but very beautiful. You can bathe there and elephant rides are available. }} * {{see | name=Kuang Si Butterfly Park | alt= | url=https://www.kuangsiwaterfalls.com/ | email= | address= | lat=19.7544 | long=101.9974 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11:00-16:00, closed Thursdays | price=$10 | lastedit=2024-01-13 | content=A butterfly park near Kuang Si waterfalls. On the shuttle to the falls it will pass on the right. A short walk from the entrance to the falls. }} == Do == * {{do | name=Big Brother Mouse | alt= | url=http://www.bigbrothermouse.com/ | email= | address= | lat=19.895078 | long=102.140737 | directions=off the main street, down a side street next to 3 Nagas Restaurant | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-11:00 & 17:00-19:00 daily | price= | lastedit=Nov 2025 | content=A worthwhile organisation devoted to encouraging literacy in young adults and children. Depending on sponsorship and volunteers, it welcomes tourists to help with English conversation and reading practice. You can just hang out and chat with locals about whatever you like. They publish and distribute books in Lao and English. Consider buying some books to take as gifts to village children if you travel through Laos. They have another branch in Vientiane. Two, 2 hour conversation sessions per day. Lots of nice locally-written kids' story books available to buy, starting from 50 cents for their A6 size books. }} * {{do | name=Fair Trek Project | alt= | url=http://www.trekking-in-laos.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=People who love activities and treks may find some interesting interactive tours which are designed to support villages outside of Luang Prabang in the north of Laos.}} * {{do | name=Hike or bike across the river in Chompet | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=take the ferry across the Mekong River; go to the riverside next to the national museum, where the slow boats arrive; fare is 5,000 kip | phone= | tollfree= |fax=| hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2020-05-20| content=Hike or bicycle alongside the river through a few small Hmong villages and past a few temples (10,000 kip admission) and a cave. Beware the children at the temples with the ticket-takers, especially at the temple with the white stairs leading to the water opposite Luang Prabang. They will swarm over tourists' backpacks, and money will later be found missing. Enquiries to police and village officials will not be fruitful. [http://hobomaps.com/ChomphetHikeMap.html Island map] }} * {{do | name=Lao Red Cross Sauna | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wisunarat Rd| lat= | long= | directions=In front of Wat Wisunalat | phone= | fax= | hours=09:00-21:00 | price=1-hour massage 150,000 kip, massage with extra oils 180,000 kip, foot massage 150,000 kip, herbal sauna 25,000 kip (October 2025). |lastedit=2023-12-13| content=A traditional Lao sauna and massage, very popular with locals in the afternoon.}} * {{do | name=Lenou's Library | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sisavangvong Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+856 71 254 813 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great way to experience Lao village life without a tour bus. The owner started a library and children's English tutoring centre in his house a few years ago and since has been steadily expanding services with help from volunteers. Lenou sometimes organises dinners on the Num Ou river by request and generally seems to appreciate a helping hand. }} * {{do | name=Rent a motorbike | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$20-25 per day |lastedit=2023-12-13| content=Although prices are high by regional standards, riding around the surrounding areas of Luang Prabang is a fantastic way to see the countryside. Fuel for the whole day will cost around 20,000 kip. Common practice is the rental company retains your passport, so make sure they know when you leave and how to recover your passport (or find a shop that doesn't do this). Choose the rental agency carefully, keep the motorcycle safe and take your own lock. Some rental agencies, particularly Khamsay, have been widely accused of stealing bikes after they rent them out to tourists, then demanding US$2,500 compensation from the tourist. Research rental shops thoroughly before choosing one. Motorcycle accidents are common among visitors to the area, particularly on the road to Kuang Si falls. If you are not an experienced motorcyclist in your home country, do not rent a motorcycle in Luang Prabang. }} * {{do | name=MandaLao Elephant Conservation | alt= | url=https://www.mandalao.net/ | email= | address= | lat=19.8783 | long=102.2365 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=US$80-150 | lastedit=2024-01-13 | content=The first non-riding elephant attraction in Laos. They offer three different tours (morning, afternoon, or all day) where you feed and walk elephants. A shuttle is provided from your hotel with and English guide. They seem genuinely concerned about elephant welfare and have programs to help change perceptions of elephants in Laos away from viewing them as purely beasts of burden. In the high season they do seem to book out a few weeks in advance. They do have an office in Luang Prabang. }} * {{do | name=Elephant Village | alt= | url=http://www.elephantvillage-laos.com/ | email=elephantvillagelpq@gmail.com | address=Sisavangvong Road | lat=19.89211 | long=102.13719 | directions=on the main road right next to the Royal Palace; there is a big elephant statue outside the office | phone=+856 71 252 417 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00 - 22:00 | price= | lastedit=2015-04-09 | content=It has 14 elephants. They are kept away from abusive work and cared by veterinarians, and seem well looked after and relaxed. Offers basic elephant rides, or 1 or 2 day mahout course where you learn the commands to control the elephant. You also get to wash the elephants in the Namkhan River which is a lot of fun. }} * {{do | name=Nava Mekong Cruises | alt= | url=http://navamekong.com/ | email=info@navamekong.com | address= | lat=19.896019 | long=102.138666 | directions= | phone=+856 20 5928 5555 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:00-14:00 & 17:00-19:00 | price=US$25-30 | lastedit=2018-04-19 | content=2 cruises on the Mekong with full meals. Pak Ou Cave cruise goes upstream, includes a visit to the "1000 Buddhas cave" (entrance fee included) and a whisky village, where passengers are given enough time to visit. Sunset cruise goes downstream, includes a traditional music and dance show. }} * {{do | name=Donate blood at the Lao Friends Hospital for Children | alt= | url=https://www.fwab.org/about-the-hospital | email= | address= | lat=19.8636 | long=102.11934 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00-16:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-01-02 | content=Lao Friends Hospital is the only free children's hospital in Laos, and they are chronically short of blood donors. Among the many children in the area who receive care, the volunteers at the hospital treat over 200 children with thalassaemia, a genetic condition which requires frequent blood transfusions in severe cases. If you are able to donate blood, consider doing it here. Conditions are clean, all equipment is single-use and sterile, and you get some snacks and a t-shirt for your trouble. }} ==Learn== ===Cooking classes=== This is an enjoyable way to gain insights into Lao culinary methods and traditions. There are at least five substantial cooking class providers in the city, using Lao chefs and instructors. They differ somewhat in style and content, but all include transport, information about Lao cuisine, and eating the dishes afterwards. * {{do | name=The Bamboo Experience | alt= | url=https://bambooexperience.org | email=info@bambooexperience.org | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+856 20 5696 8889 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=08:30-13:30 or 16:00-20:30 | price=336,000 kip, special rates for families & children | lastedit=2018-04-19 | content=Located in a village near rice paddy field and bamboo plantation. Not only you'll learn to cook Lao dishes using bamboo shoots as the main ingredient, but as well you'll learn what can be made out of bamboo, play with bamboo stilts, crossbow, attend a small music+dance show by a Hmong man, get a weaving lesson with a local craftsman & make your own small souvenir. }} * {{do | name=Tamarind | alt= | url=http://www.tamarindlaos.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=along the Nam Khan River | phone=+856 20 77770484 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-15:30 | price=Sep 2016: 285,000 kip | content=Lovely gardens by the water a short ride from the city. }} * {{do | name=Tamnak Lao | alt= | url=http://tamnaklao.yolasite.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Beside their main street restaurant | phone=+856 71 254670 | fax= | hours=10:00-17:00, 17:30-20:30 | price=200,000-250,000 kip | content=They offer day and evening courses. For day class, there are 2 mandatory plus 5 optional dishes to choose from (choose only 3) for a total of 5 dishes plus demonstrations only on how to cook sticky rice and Lao chili paste (very good). Variation is not much as 4 of the 7 dishes presented require eggs (standard class). Instruction is no-nonsense and very fast paced, but Mr Lee, the instructor, is very helpful. It starts with demonstration, then hands on. All the dishes made are eaten, so it may be useful to bring a cooking and eating partner.}} * {{do | name=Tum Tum Cheng | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=on the main street towards the end of the peninsula | phone=+856 71 252019 | fax= | hours= | price=Half-day course for US$38 | content=Classes have more of a demonstration orientation, with participants helping instructors with various tasks. All courses can be booked at the relevant restaurants.}} * {{do | name=P 70 Pottery, Cooking and Candle Making Classes | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.89847 | long=102.147422 | directions=Across the seasonal bamboo bridge at the end of the peninsula, close to where the Nam Khan river flows into the Mekong. If the bridge is not there, a 15 min tuktuk ride will also take you there. | phone=+856 20 54 543 393 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Half-day course for US$37 per person | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=Moved in 2024 to this place with lovingly designed interior. Typical Lao dishes such as Laab or mango sticky rice. Asked for dietary requirements multiple times. Also offers pottery and candle making classes. }} Some of the hotels and guesthouses in town also offer small or private cooking classes for their guests. ===Farm visit=== * {{do | name=Living Land Farm | alt= | url=https://www.livinglandlao.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=outside town on the way to the waterfall | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers a "rice experience" tour, or you can just stop by this farm. If you visit without a tour, they will still show you around the farm, pointing out the organic vegetables and rice and showing you the traditional tools they use to process rice.}} == Buy == Thai baht and USD are widely accepted but the exchange rates vary. There are some ATMs that accept Visa, MasterCard, Maestro and Eurocards. These ATMs are mostly on Sisavangvong Rd near the end of the Night Market. The ATMs dispense currency in Lao kip, and generally allow a maximum withdrawal of 1,000,000 kip with a charge of 20,000 kip. '''Banque Franco-Lao''' allows a maximum withdrawal of 2,000,000 kip with a charge of 40,000 kip. Multiple withdrawals are allowed to a daily maximum of 5,000,000 kip. If you arrive by plane, there is an ATM and a money changer at the airport which is only open for a few hours each day. Also, their rates are significantly worse than the banks in town. '''Money changers/exchange''' For Malaysians, it is best to change [[Malaysia#Money|ringgit]] to [[Thailand#Money|baht]], then change the baht to kip in Laos. This is because they give poor rates in Laos for Malaysian ringgit. There are a number of money changers who generally do not offer good rates, and are either on Sisavangvong Rd or in the permanent markets further east. One is next to the ATM near the Night Markets, another is about 50 m further north along the street, in a small booth in front of one of the first restaurants. The rates offered may vary, so shop around before you change. Better maybe to use official money changing services at a bank which are easily found. There are reports of scams whereby money changers quote cash advance rates instead of the spot rates. They will charge you more in US dollars with a different exchange rate than posted. Even after complaining it's not possible to cancel the transaction. * {{buy | name=BCEL Bank & ATM | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.88742 | long=102.135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Allows ATM withdrawal multiple times, 2M kip for only a 30k kip withdrawal fee. }} * {{buy | name=BFL BRED (bank and money changer) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.893 | long=102.13873 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=Good rates for money changing. }} * {{buy | name=Minipost Money Exchanger | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.88888 | long=102.13311 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=8am-8pm | price= | content=Good rates for money changing. }} [[File:Luang Prabang Night Market.jpg|thumb|Luang Prabang Night Market]] The '''Night Market''' (on Sisavangvong Road) caters to tourists with every kind of souvenir you could want and closes at about 22:00. This region is especially talented in textile production. Particularly good are the duvet covers, cushion covers, and pillow sets. They can even make one up to your dimensions by the next day. It is well worth a look and the hawkers are very pleasant to deal with and amazingly non-pushy by the standard elsewhere in Asia. Traders range from young children to the elderly who usually make crafts, art, and goods by themselves. Good-natured bargaining is advisable, but don't obsess over this and ruin your experience as well as giving the trader a bad day. The quality and design of goods is lower in the market than in the legions of increasingly chic stores in the city. There may be some souvenirs available made from endangered animals. Avoid buying rare pets, leather, ivory, talons, dried sea creatures, fur, feathers, teeth and other animal products. This is the best place to buy lower end souvenirs and hone your bargaining skills. The '''Morning Market''' (located on the inner road between Kitsalat Rd and the National Museum) is a street market where locals shop for fresh produce, although some tourist items have been making appearances as well. There are some eateries along the market for breakfast. The market disperses around 11:00. Make sure to ask sellers for permission if you would like to take photos of them. * {{buy | name=D&T Supermarket | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.8877 | long=102.136 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=This supermarket formally called Dara Supermarket is huge. Pretty much everything you could want can be found here. Local Lao and tourists all shop here. With a great variety of all your shopping needs. There are local Lao goods, as well as others from Thailand, China and as far away as Malaysia. }} Laotian aesthetic sense is quite evolved. For instance check out some of the higher end stores: * {{buy | name=Ock Pop Tok | url=http://www.ockpoptok.com/index.php/home | email= | address=73/5 Ban Vat Nong, with a shop in the city | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+856 71 253219 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An ethical trading company with superb galleries. Also run classes and visits to village weaving facilities.}} The [https://www.facebook.com/Luangprabangdeafmutecommunity '''Deaf and Mute Community Centre'''] helps the local deaf community learn skills like sewing and agriculture. It has a charity shop selling scarves, tablecloths, clothing and the like. Leave them a tip! It is worth noting that outside the old town, prices for everything essentially halve. Get out and explore! ===Books=== Several book stores that sell photocopied books to unsuspecting travellers operate in the area. It's worth checking copies as pages can be unreadable or even missing. * {{buy | name=Tamnak Lao Restaurant Book Exchange | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=In the lane next to the restaurant | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A very good selection of books. The exchange operates on a "one for one" basis plus 20,000 kip, and all books are also available for purchase. All of the money raised by the book exchange goes to buying provisions for the [http://www.lao-kids.org Luang Prabang Government Orphanages and Ethnic High Schools].}} == Eat == [[File:Or Lam at Amantaka.jpg|thumb|''Or lam'' pork stew, probably Luang Prabang's most famous dish]] [[File:Khaiphen green algae sheets.jpg|thumb|''Khai phaen'' roasted algae sheets]] There are no multi-national fast food outlets in Luang Prabang. Restaurants line Sisavangvong Rd and the roads along the Mekong and Nam Khan. Food runs the gamut from standard SE Asian backpacker fare to more traditional Lao dishes, including buffalo sausage right up to very high quality French cuisine. There are also numerous market stalls for cheaper food, including baguettes, crepes, and pancakes. Typical prices for Beerlao is 45,000 kip for a large bottle and 35,000 kip for a small, which generally are standard throughout the country. Most riverside places offer the same prices for beer and similar food, although prices for food can vary wildly. Shop around and don't be shy about asking prices if anything is unclear. Probably the most recommended food is the Lao version of fried spring roll, vegetable or pork. A speciality of Luang Prabang worth trying is '''khai phaen''' (ໄຄແຜ່ນ), made by collecting green algae from the Mekong, drying it as sheets and jazzing it up with sesame seeds, chillies, oil, etc. The end product resembles Japanese ''nori'' seaweed, and it's widely sold from street stalls, but is not meant to be eaten raw! Instead, find any bar and try it flash-fried, which transforms chewy plastic into a delicious, crispy, salty snack that goes well with beer. Other '''local specialities''' include: * ''Or lam'' (ເອາະຫຼາມ), a mild, herbal pork stew flavored with ''sakhaan'' (chili wood), which has an unusual peppery-numbing taste *French baguettes and other bakery items. Generally very good. *Local watercress which is very peppery. *Buffalo steaks and sausages. *Luang Prabang Khao Soi: spicy clear mince and noodle soup which is very different from the Chiang Mai version ===Budget=== [[File:Buffet at the Luang Prabang Night Market.jpg|thumb|Colorful buffet at the Luang Prabang night market]] Stalls along an alleyway between the night market end of Sisavangvong Rd and the Mekong offers superb Lao street food at bargain prices. Grilled salted catfish is available for 15,000 kip per fish, other types of fish for 20,000. For a somewhat spicy salad for about 10,000 kip, look for vendors with containers filled with cucumber, lime, tomato and sliced green papaya, where they will mix it on the spot with mortar and pestle. If you order barbecued meat from one of the vendors opposite the tables, they will cook it for you over the charcoal, and you can grab a seat at one of the tables to eat. The tables are quite crowded; it is easier to get a seat after 20:30 or so. The entry to the alley is by the vegan restaurant near the food stall end of the night market, near the traffic circle where the tuk-tuk touts hang out. * {{eat | name=Bamboo Garden Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.88665 | long=102.13869 | directions=opposite Wat Visoun | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 08:00-23:00 | price= 40-60,000 kip | content=Cheap Lao food. Popular spot for the expats and GVI volunteers. }} * {{eat | name=Ketmany Restaurant | url= | email= | address= 34 Kingkitsarath Rd, Luang Prabang, Laos | directions=Walk up ramp from sidewalk, big menu on sidewalk will help you find it | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= 20-30,000 kip | content=Cheap Lao food. Great selection all for reasonable price, good cheap smoothies. }} * {{eat | name=Khao Soi Street Stall | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.889222 | long=102.13359 | directions=corner of Inthasome and Sisavangvong Rd in front of tourist information center gate | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=35,000 kip | content=Luang Prabang Khao Soi street food. Opens around 17:00. Southwest end of night market.}} * {{eat | name=Hmong Night Market | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=17:00-22:00 | price= | content=One food stall says vegetarian and the other "végétalien" (vegan). Approximately 5,000 kip for a plate. Popular with budget travellers, but not an option for those looking for tasty food. Cash only. Eat at your own risk as hygiene is questionable.}} * {{eat | name=Nang Tao | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.89537 | long=102.14066 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:00-21:00 | price=35000 kip | lastedit=2024-01-13 | content=Excellent stop for Lao cuisine. Their larb was a favourite in the area. Most of the staff do not speak English, but there is one fellow there that does (and you can point at the menu). }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Le Banneton | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Opposite Wat Sop, Sisavangvong Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Amazing, authentic French bread, tarts, pastries and cakes. Their pain au chocolat are buttery and delicious. Go in the morning as they often run out in the afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Big Tree Cafe | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Consistently good Western and Korean food. Under the big tree on the Mekong River. Good service and free Wi-Fi.}} * {{eat | name=Blue Lagoon Restaurant | url=http://www.blue-lagoon-restaurant.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Beside the national museum | phone=+856 71 253698 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers Luang Prabang-Lao dishes and Swiss classics as well as a variety of snacks and fresh salads.}} * {{eat | name=Joma Bakery Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.8886 | long=102.1327 | directions=near the post office at the end of the night market | phone=+856 71 252292 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-21:00 | price= | content=Free Wi-Fi, air-con on both floors and free full-menu delivery service from 07:00-19:30. Great music and friendly staff. }} * {{eat | name=Nisha Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.8859699 | long=102.1340199 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-22:00 | price=20-50,000 kip | content=Popular Indian/Tamil food. Great vegetarian/vegan options but serves (halal) meat as well. }} * {{eat | name=Rosella Fusion Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Clean and well-cooked food. A small place (blink, and you'll miss it) that looks like a fruit shake place. Locally owned by Lao man who trained at Amantaka Restaurant. Possibly the best steaks in town, certainly great cocktails. Slow service, but worth it.}} * {{eat | name=Saffron Caffè | url=https://saffroncoffee.com | email= | address= | lat=19.89515 | long=102.13839 | directions=around the corner from L'Elephant Restaurant in Wat Nong village | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent coffee. It comes from the surrounding mountains. The banana shake macchiato is recommended. Delicious fresh baked goods such as their cinnamon swirls and banana muffins go quickly. Granola and salad wraps are good.}} * {{eat | name=Zurich Bread Artisan Bakery | url=https://www.zurichbread.com/contact-us/luang-prabang-laos/ | email= | address=Sakkaline Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+856 20 58 528 953 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 05:00-18:00 | price= | content=Lots of pastries and breakfasts (and bread).}} * {{eat | name=Shakes & Crepes | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=In front of Croissant d'Or on the main street | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A no-name place serving delicious shakes for 5,000 kip and fantastic sweet crepes starting at 7,000 kip.}} * {{do | name=Viewpoint Café and Restaurant | alt= | url=| email= | address=Mekong Riverside Rd, Xieng Thong Village | lat= | long= | directions=Next to Mekong Riverview Hotel | phone=+856 71 254900 | fax= | hours=07:00-23:00 | price= | content=High quality Lao and Western food.}} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=L'Elephant | url=http://www.elephant-restau.com/Engindex.html | email= | address= | lat=19.89526 | long=102.13950 | directions=around the corner from Saffron Cafe | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A lovely restaurant with a mix of Lao and French foods. The food is extremely good, but has its price. Ingredients are of the highest quality, ranging from French Camembert to Laotian lemongrass and river weeds. The menu is both pricey and some items do not justify the price tag. Great ambience.}} * {{eat | name=La Silapa Italian & Lao Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/lasilapa/ | email=info@lasilapa.com | address=Phommathat Road | lat=19.888441 | long=102.138592 | directions=in front of Wat Aham (near Wat Visoun) | phone= | tollfree= | hours=17:00-23:30 | price= | content=Italian or local food. Particularly good are the Parmesan aubergine, pork lasagna, fresh pasta with mushroom and truffles, and the tiramisú. Big garden (with a Fiat), big room with air-con and nice terrace on the street with free Wi-Fi. Happy hour with Aperol Spritz and wine for 50,000 kip, and buy one get one free. }} * {{eat | name=The Brothers House | alt= | url= | email=thehouselaos@gmail.com | address=Kingkitsarath Road 10 | lat= | long= | directions=at the Nam Khan riverside of Mount Phousie, a few minutes away from main street and night market | phone=+856 71 255021 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The only Belgian restaurant/bar in Luang Prabang. Excellent price/quality food. It has an appealing range of Belgian beer, cocktails and wine. Known for its lasagna, stews and curries. Recommended for vegetarians. A green bamboo garden with fairy lights confers a pleasant ambience. Attentive staff. }} * {{eat | name=Tamarind | url=https://www.tamarindlaos.com | email= | address=Kingkitsarath Road | lat=19.89467 | long=102.14163 | directions=on the bank of the Nam Khan River next to Apsara | phone=+856 71 213 128 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialises in introducing Western tourists to Lao food, so the dishes are offered with explanations and the menu is full of information. Traditional Lao food in sampler format. Platter combinations of dips, salads, etc., as well as set menus. Only a small wine list, but good range of fruit drinks. Popular cooking classes in a garden setting. Sells food products, recipe books.}} == Drink == There are a number of places to drink around Luang Prabang, though the late-night club scene is pretty much nonexistent. The liveliest and busiest bars are in a small cluster between Mt Phousi and the Nam Khong. Luang Prabang's status means that curfews are strictly enforced here. Bars start winding down at 23:00 and close at 23:30 sharp. The only late-night options permitted are outside the main part of town, a discothèque patronised mostly by locals and bizarrely, a ten pin bowling alley. If you do plan on staying out after hours, check the arrangements with your guesthouse first to avoid being locked out. If you're simply looking to relax and enjoy the river views, most riverside restaurants have tables outside where you can sit back with a beer or two. There's even a specific Luang Prabang variant of the omnipresent BeerLao. * {{drink | name=Books and Tea L'Etranger | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Downstairs is a book shop/swap and upstairs is a bar selling drinks and cake in a room covered in cushions for lazing around and reading. Movies everyday at 19:00. A tad greedy and unfriendly on the book exchange business.}} * {{drink | name=Hive Bar | url= | email= | address=Phousi Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Closes 23:30 sharp | price= | content=Established and highly popular watering hole, with cosy brick-lined rooms and an outside terrace. Notable for their ethnic fashion shows at 19:00 most days of the week and their range of Lao Lao cocktails.}} * {{drink | name=Morning Glory Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=On the quiet end of the main street, after 3 Nagas | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Run by a laid-back couple. Thai and Western food. Good wine, by the glass. Garden seating. Temple in front and street life can be enjoyed.}} * {{drink | name=Utopia | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=by the Nam Khan River; follow the signs from near the Hive Bar | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=08:00-23:30 | price= | lastedit=2017-06-22 | content=Aims to be a relaxing garden by day and tropical jungle lounge by night, when it fills up with backpackers. Gorgeous views along the Nam Khan River, great venue and a laid back crowd, very popular and a good place to meet other backpackers. Free Wi-Fi. When they close everyone is pushed out into tuk-tuks headed for a bowling alley quite a way outside of town (rumored to be run by the Mafia) where the party continues. }} == Sleep == {{sleeppricerange|Under 1,000,000 kip|1,000,000-2,000,000 kip|Over 1,000,000 kip}} Luang Prabang has the best selection of accommodation in Laos, with something to suit every budget. There is everything from tent sites under a roof for 20,000 kip per night up to super luxury at US$1,500 per night. 300,000 kip (US$13) for a room seems to be the low end, as of late 2024. Don't expect though that the whole kit and caboodle that you can find in Vietnam or Cambodia, air-con, cable TV, Internet, can be found in LP for US$12 just near the main tourist area. Walk a bit outside of it (but not near the river), and you may find such deals even during the peak season, though. If you rent a motorbike, even better deals can be found at the city outskirts. While the big chains have yet to make an appearance, there's plenty of "boutique" accommodation, although this heavily overused word runs the gamut from quirky to luxury. Most of the lanes and alleys all through Luang Prabang have places to stay, with a large selection also found in the lanes south of the Post Office. Free Wi-Fi is quite common in budget guesthouses. ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Bunthan Guesthouse | alt=ເຮືອນພັກບຸນທັນ | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.8775 | long=102.1311 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=120,000 kip (may be bargained down to 100,000 kip) | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-01-18 | content=Good, clean rooms with AC. The place itself is very quiet, but the roosters next to it are noisy. }} * {{sleep | name=Chitlathda Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=From 40,000 kip | content=Has two wings with decent clean doubles 40,000 kip. Triple room 50,000 kip. Free Wi-Fi and water.}} * {{sleep | name=Cold River Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=US$ 39 |lastedit=2025-01-02| content=Run by a local family. It's on the Khan River. Free filtered water and bananas are available. On Saturdays they serve a free home-cooked dinner.}} * {{sleep | name=Levady Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in a lovely side street 50 m off the main street. | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=250,000 kip | lastedit =2023-04 | content=Nice family, wooden rooms and floor, bike rentals, tidy. Double rooms with fan and private bathroom. No Wi-Fi.}} * {{sleep | name=Luang Prabang Backpackers Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=next to the Nam Khan River's motorcycle/bicycle bridge (a 10-min walk away from the night market) | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=40,000 kip | content=Clean and comfortable dorm beds (includes free breakfast and coffee). The guesthouse is run by a nice local family who, if you're lucky, will occasionally provide you with delicious Lao BBQ and Lao whisky. Free Wi-Fi, cable TV and filtered water.}} * {{sleep | name=Wat That Guest House & Mala Dressmaker | alt= | url= | email=chanm_ph@yahoo.com | address=2/16 Wat That Rd | lat= | long= | directions=close to the Mekong River and a short walk to the night markets | phone=+856 71 254859, +856 20 55671180 | fax= | hours= | price=Dorm 100 000 kop, private room 250 000 kip |lastedit=2023-01-18| content=A traditional Lao-style home with 3 upstairs rooms, all with self-contained baths and a new cheap room downstairs with a shared bath. Free Wi-Fi, drinking water, and regularly bananas or other fruit. Laundry, coffee, breakfast and bicycle rental. There is a dress shop in front where you can have clothes made, repaired or altered.}} * {{sleep | name=Maniphone Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address=Phu Vao rd | lat=19.8796 | long=102.13168 | directions=50 m up from Manomai rd., across the road from Flora Sanakeo hotel. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=350,000 kip | lastedit=2024-12-22 | content=A large two-storey guesthouse, mostly empty despite near-Christmas dates and outrageous prices closer to the Night market. Rooms are a bit old but clean and large. Large common area, free water dispenser. Several restaurants and other guesthouses in the same area. }} * {{sleep | name=Merry Guesthouse| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=US$3 with bath outside | content=Free filtered water and bananas are available. Not so merry though, the options further down the alley (Cold River and Sysomphone) are more appealing.}}(starts at 500k kip) * {{sleep | name=Somjith Guesthouse | url= | email=somjithG_H@gmail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+856 71 252756, +856 20 77774883 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=From 50,000 kip | checkin= | checkout= | content=Clean rooms with attached or shared bathroom, fan or air-con, free Wi-Fi (but a bit unreliable), laundry service 8,000 kip/kg.}} * {{sleep | name=Sysomphone Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://sysomphone.weebly.com | email= | address=252-543 Banvisoun 22/4 St | lat= | long= | directions=off Vatmou-Enna Rd. Have the Lao Development Bank on your left, walk straight till the T-junction, turn right, then take the second left into the small street; Sysomphone is at the end | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=40,000-50,000 kip | content=Has a good view of Nam Khan River behind the guesthouse and is around a 10 min walk to Sisavangvong Rd. Friendly and helpful family/owner. Free bananas, water, and Wi-Fi. Owner has good info, prepares a free dinner once a week for guests, has sticky rice if you stumble across dinner, collects guests' photographs in an album, and shares things he knows about the Lao people or the country if you ask. Rooms with shared hot-water bathrooms. A newer, cleaner building in the back has fresher rooms for 70,000 kip.}}(Absorbed by Merry post Covid, then renovated, it seems) * {{sleep | name=VannaPhone Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=10 min away from the airport and about 4 min from the city | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=US$10-15 | content=Acceptably sized rooms with fairly small bathrooms. The rooms located close to the street are noisy, but the new backrooms are OK.}} * {{sleep | name=Vong Champa Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=80,000 kip | content=In a small alley on the Mekong riverfront near the night market. Cheap, quiet, new and spotlessly clean. }} * {{sleep | name=Xayana Guesthouse and X³ Capsule Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.mylaohome.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=Dorms from USD4 or 30,000 kip, rooms from US$8 | content=Guesthouse in a Lao-style villa in the protected zone. Clean dorms with bathroom/showers inside. Movies are shown in the evening. Extra services are quite expensive: storage of valuables in a safe for 20,000 kip, laundry service 18,000 kip. There are cheaper laundry services nearby.}} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Kamu Lodge | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/kamulodge.luangprabang/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in a remote location on the Mekong River N of Luang Prabang | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This lodge is in an ethnic Kamu village. It purports to offer a sustainable and socially responsible tourism concept.}} * {{sleep | name=Lao Lu Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ban Pakham | lat= | long= | directions=in a small street 50 m from the Mekong, slightly E of Kitsalat Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=Around 200,000 kip depending on the room | checkin= | checkout= | content=A rather nice accommodation with a quiet courtyard, close to both the Mekong and the night market. Air-con, hot water, 24/7 free tea and drink water, free Wi-Fi. They offer limited possibilities to buy tickets to other cities. Be aware that the rooms on the ground floor have virtually no daylight.}} * {{sleep | name=Manichan Guesthouse | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/manichanguesthouse/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near the Night Market | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=Low season: US$7–15, high season: US$12–30 (including breakfast buffet) | content=Centrally located, new and clean in green, peaceful environment. "Lao-colonial" -style house with wooden floors and homey feel rooms. Private and shared baths with hot, separate showers. Free coffee corner. Has a balcony with city view. Belgian-Lao management. Air-con an optional extra US$4.}} * {{sleep | name=Merry Swiss Lao | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=US$40 | content=Near Mt Phousi, not on the main street side, but the other side. Rooms have private bath and air conditioning.}} * {{sleep | name=Phasith Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email=kolawy@hotmail.com | address=Chaosisouphan Rd | lat= | long= | directions=between Mt Phousi & Nam Kham River, facing back stairs/entrance of Mt Phousi | phone=+856 71 260420 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Local family-run guesthouse in a well-kept restored old building. Central location. The nicely decorated clean rooms have en suite baths with either balconies or gardens attached. Free Wi-Fi, bottled water, bananas provided. Family is friendly and invites guests to join them when they make family trips to local attractions.}} * {{sleep | name=Rama Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=US$30 including a decent breakfast. | content=Higher-end guesthouse. Hot water shower and air con. This hotel is quiet with a little traffic noise until about 23:00.}} * {{sleep | name=Sabaidee Guesthouse | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/SabaideeThalang/ | email= | address=70 Thammikarat Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=US$25 | content=There are lots of good guesthouses along here. This one is good value for a double en suite room with breakfast included. There's a good laundrette just opposite the entrance.}} * {{sleep | name=Tha Heua Me Guest House | alt= | url= | email=noyna_5554@hotmail.com | address=Souliyavongsa Road, Khem Khong | lat= | long= | directions=City centre | phone=+856 20 55 080 903 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Family guesthouse close to the main attractions. Each morning at dawn, the orange-dressed Buddhist monks walk just a few metres away from the terrace for the alms-giving ceremony. }} * {{sleep | name=Thony 1 Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email=thony1@laotel.com | address=Ban Visoun, Chao Chomphou Rd | lat= | long= | directions=head for Wat Visoun which is very close by; from the temple just look towards the Nam Khan River and you will see the guesthouse | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=US$22-35 | content=This converted family villa is on the bank of the Nam Khan River. Only 10 min walk to the night market and historic centre. Rooms with riverview & family rooms available.}} * {{sleep | name=Villa Kiengkham | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Near the Rama Hotel | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=US$25 | content=Nice, clean, comfortable hotel with friendly staff.}} * {{sleep | name=Villa Meung Lao | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=US$25-30 | content=Guesthouse in the city centre, close to the Royal Palace and the morning market. Rooms offer air-con, TV, Wi-Fi (unreliable) and free water. }} * {{sleep | name=Hillside - Nature Lifestyle Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.hillsidelaos.com | email=hillsidelaos@gmail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+856 20 58777038 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$55-65 | content=Surrounded by protected area, mountains and pristine forests. 12 km from Luang Prabang. Guided and self-guided walks to waterfalls and ethnic villages. Mountain bikes available. Has a very nice swimming pool. Charming double and twin bungalows in the tropical garden, and a family bungalow. Organic garden, restaurant with homemade food. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Amantaka Hotel.jpg|thumb|Colonial grandeur at the Amantaka]] * {{sleep | name=Amantaka | alt= | url=http://www.amanresorts.com/amantaka/home.aspx | email= | address= | lat=19.8863772 | long=102.1354093 | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=From US$1000 | content=Luxury resort by the Aman group, and probably the most expensive hotel in all of Laos. Set in the large garden estate and graceful colonial buildings of what was once the French hospital, just south of Phousi Hill. Airy, elegant and tranquil throughout, the décor and furnishings reflect the city's French colonial history. Only 24 "suites", some with private pools. Rates include two meals and free transport around the city with a branded tuktuk. If you can't quite justify a night, drop by for a US$10 Beerlao at the poolside bar/restaurant and soak in the ambience, which includes live traditional music in the evenings.}} * {{sleep | name=Ancient Luang Prabang | alt= | url=http://www.ancientluangprabang.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2025-01-02| content=On the doorstep of the night market, which is a mixed blessing. A nice, authentic view, but prepare for vendors packing up stalls at 01:00 with the windows being as soundproof as paper. Rooms not quite up to scratch for this price: no shower curtain and cleverly designed taps ensure a wet floor. However, clean and comfortable. Friendly staff and free airport transfer.}} *{{sleep | name=The Apsara | url=http://www.theapsara.com/ | email=info@theapsara.com | address=Kingkitsarath Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+856 71 254670 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$75-120 | checkin= | checkout= | content=A quite wonderful hotel in a restored colonial building overlooking the Khan River. All rooms are decorated with local fabrics and furniture and very much in keeping with the hip and funky image of the hotel. Try to stay in the original building if you can. Superb French/Asian restaurant in the lobby.}} * {{sleep | name=The Grand | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=around 4 km from the city. Provides a regular shuttle boat and bus service runs for guests | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An atmospheric set of comfortable neo-colonial buildings on the site of Prince Phetsarath's old residence. Many rooms have idyllic views of both the Mekong River and the hotels gardens and ponds. During the winter season, breakfast is served outdoors on a terrace with spectacular views of the Mekong River and the surrounding hills as they emerge from the morning mist.}} * {{sleep | name=Kiridara | alt= | url=http://kiridara.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=From US$112 | content=Beautiful hotel on the outskirts of the city, with views overlooking Mt Phou Si and the hills surrounding Luang Prabang. The relatively large rooms offer very comfortable beds. The infinity swimming pool has great views, and sometimes masseuses from the spa will offer complimentary 5-min massages to people lounging by the pool. The spa offers a range of massages and herbal steam baths. Small gym on-site.}} *{{sleep | name=Lotus Villa | url=http://www.lotusvillalaos.com/ | email=reception@lotusvillalaos.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+856 71 255050 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$60-180 | checkin= | checkout= | content=A 15-room Lao-colonial villa in the quiet area of the UNESCO precinct. The clean rooms, decorated by local artisans, are centred around a lush tropical garden, includes breakfast and Internet/Wi-Fi.}} * {{sleep | name=Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An old palace transformed into a hotel, with the "Angsana Spa" within the hotel. Spacious rooms with great amenities. Each room with a balcony. Small but clean swimming pool, hearty breakfast, all staff know you by name as there are only 24 rooms. Within walking distance to all the attractions.}} * {{sleep | name=Mekong River View | alt= | url=http://www.mekongriverview.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A beautiful boutique hotel with personal touches, on the tip of the peninsula, at the very end of the old town, in the UNESCO World Heritage Area. The view you have from the rooms and café/restaurant is the meeting of the Mekong River and Nam Khan Rivers. The hotel is quiet and peaceful with the beautiful former royal temple Wat Xienthong as your neighbour.}} * {{sleep | name=La Residence Phou Vao | alt= | url=http://www.residencephouvao.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This resort sits amid landscaped grounds and gardens, and has picturesque views over Phou Si and the town. The property has a traditional Lao spa and a restaurant, offering both indigenous and French cuisine. Regular shuttles are provided and boat trips arranged.}} * {{sleep | name=3 Nagas Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice colonial hotel with 7 rooms on one side and 8 on the other. The restaurant is fairly cheap, but the rooms are rather overpriced. There are a few executive suites, the most costly coming with their own set of stairs. But beware: your nights may be troubled as there is a cockerel that sings every morning at the hotel at about 03:00. The attitude of the owner has put off some guests who report this in forums.}} * {{sleep | name=Villa Maly | alt= | url=http://www.villa-maly.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=US$190-300 | content=Boutique hotel that is a former royal residence. The property is a blend of traditional Laotian architecture with echoes of its French colonial past. Internet and breakfast included.}} * {{sleep | name=Villa Santi Resort | alt= | url=http://www.villasantihotel.com/ | email= | address=Sakkarine Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+856 71 252157 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Villa-style resort, good restaurant, with a terribly mosquito infested pool. Massage and spa service.}} * {{sleep | name=Villa Le TamTam | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=US$55-80 | content=Superior guest house in a quiet street just a minute walk from the city centre. Excellent service and peaceful atmosphere. Full breakfast included.}} * {{sleep | name=Lao Spirit Resort | alt= | url=http://www.lao-spirit.com/ | email=info@lao-spirit.com | address= | lat=19.864414 | long=102.230240 | directions=you can ride your motorbike to Ban Xieng Lom village or arrange for the staff to pick you up in Luang Prabang | phone=+856 20 58 553 133 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$100, last-minute often cheaper | lastedit=2015-07-09 | content=Beautiful, peaceful jungle resort 15 km outside of the city. Colonial style bungalows with great views of the Nam Khan and mountains beyond. Good food and many activities offered. In the mornings, you can see elephants bathe in the river. Supports local villages. }} * {{sleep | name=Parasol Blanc | alt= | url=http://www.parasol-blanc.com | email=info@parasol-blanc.com | address=11 Phouvao Road | lat=19.881562 | long=102.129046 | directions=1km from/to the night market and center | phone=+856 71 252 124 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$96 for a classic room, $116 for a superior | lastedit=2018-04-19 | content=3.5 stars hotel. 20 classic rooms, 10 superior rooms. While the story of Parasol Blanc started in 1885 and King Sisavang Phoulivong, the hotel is very recent and rooms are super modern. Friendly & multilingual staff (English & French especially). Bicycles lent for free. Rooms with a private balcony overlooking a tropical garden and a lotus pond, protected by the UNESCO Free Zone. Cable TV. Plugs everywhere. Substantial, diverse & delicious breakfast (including baguette, croissants, Nutella, Vegemite, fresh fruits, Lao delicacies) 06:30-22:00. }} ==Cope== If you buy bottled water, refill the bottle! You will find water dispensers in many places, including in your hotel lobby, tour agents' offices, restaurants and cafes (such as Joma) etc. If you can't find one along the backpackers' area, go to the lobby of the Phra Lang Phra Lao, a separate building beside the National Museum, beyond the huge King Sisavangvong statue, and fill it up. The water dispenser is on the right at the far end. There is also a free toilet. During lunch break or siesta time, from 12:00 to 13:30, the summer sun can be scorching. To escape it, hang around at the public library across from the National Museum about 4 or 5 buildings down from the US-sponsored reading room. There are old English language newspapers still in circulation. Or you can use one of the six computers to surf the net for free. == Stay safe == Scooter accidents are common amongst tourists in Luang Prabang. '''Do not rent a scooter here if you are not experienced'''. The road to the Kuang Si falls is especially dangerous due to the deep pot-holes filled with loose material, sand on the road, and speeding drivers of tourist vans. Even if you're used to motorcycling in flat areas, remember that bikes with automatic transmissions can often stall out or freeze up when trying to deal with some of the more extreme hills in Luang Prabang's environs. {{Listing | type = go | name = Luang Prabang Provincial Hospital | lat = 19.86479 | long = 102.11946 | phone = +85671254027 | hours = 24/7 | lastedit = 2025-02-16 }} If you come down with a serious illness or injury, your best bet would be to fly directly to Bangkok and seek medical treatment there. ==Go next== * [[Huay Xai]] — for those departing by boat to Thailand this is the necessary stopover *[[Vang Vieng]] — the next stop on the backpacker circuit for many younger travellers. The road to Vang Vieng is very bad, so taking the train is recommended. *[[Phonsavan]] - starting point for [[Plain of Jars]] UNESCO world heritage sites *For a more serene experience: ** [[Nong Khiaw]] — to the north ** [[Muang Ngoi Neua]] *[[Vientiane]] *[[Hanoi]] — if you're heading to Vietnam and you're staying in a Vietnamese-run hotel, ask them to exchange money into Dong for you. They ought to give you a good rate. * [[Nong Khiaw]] {{geo|19.8833|102.1333}} {{isPartOf|Northern Laos}} {{guidecity}} sfich6c8fu49s0yoi6irlorvmkzgwvj 0 20503 5289011 5243282 2026-06-07T07:14:57Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5289011 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Luleå banner.jpg|unesco=yes}} '''Luleå''', also called ''Lule'', is the seat of [[Norrbotten County]] in northern [[Sweden]]. The city lies at the mouth of the Lule River, in the north-west corner of the Gulf of Bothnia. It has about 70,000 inhabitants, a technical university, and a steel mill. ==Understand== [[File:Lulea-city-festival-water.jpg|thumb|Luleå city centre]] [[File:Lulea Kirche, modified.jpg|thumb|Luleå cathedral]] When Luleå was mentioned in documents for the first time in 1327, it was located on the site of today's Gammelstad. It developed into a market place and centre of a parish, which at that time included almost all Norrbotten. Due to the [[Ice Age|post-glacial land rebound]], it became increasingly difficult to use the harbour, and in the mid-17th century the town relocated to where it is now, with the old town changing its name to Gammelstad. The major employers in the area are the steel industry and Facebook (which operates some data centres there). The city is located about 110 km south of the Arctic Circle. ===Tourist office=== * {{listing | name=Luleå Turistcenter | alt= | url=http://www.visitLulea.se/?lang=en | email=turistcenter@lulea.se | address=Kulturens Hus, Skeppsbrogatan 17 | lat=22.152299879 | long=65.585613593 | directions= | phone=+46 920 45-70-00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M–F 10:00–17:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-09-05 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Gammelstad Visitor Center | alt= | url=http://www.visitgammelstad.se | email= | address=Kyrktorget 1 | lat=65.6463 | long=22.02867 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-07 | content= }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Luleå airport | alt={{IATA|LLA}} | url=http://www.swedavia.com/lulea/ | email= | address= | lat=65.543611 | long=22.121944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Luleå Airport | image=Luleå airport entrance.jpg | wikidata=Q1431971 | content=Both SAS and Norwegian have several flights per day scheduled from [[Stockholm Arlanda airport]] to LLA (fewer during weekends), and with a flight time of about 1 hour 10 minutes, it may be preferred over the 14-hour night train. }} The airport is in Kallax (and thus is commonly called Kallax airport), about 5&nbsp;km from Luleå city centre, which is accessible by [http://www.swedavia.com/Luleå/to-from/bus/ shuttle bus]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} or taxi. The shuttle bus to the centre costs 50 kr each way, and it's departures are based on the flight schedule. There are scheduled flights from [[Kiruna]] and [[Tromsø]] (Nordkalottflyg), [[Pajala]] (Nordkalottflyg), [[Umeå]] and [[Östersund]] (Nordic Regional), [[Gothenburg]] (City Airline), [[Sundsvall]] and [[Borlänge]] (Direktflyg), [[London]] (one flight every Saturday, SAS) and [[Riga]] (AirBaltic). ===By train=== [[File:Map of Malmbanan (section).png|thumb|324px|Map of Malmbanan]] Luleå is connected to Stockholm by the over 100-year-old Norra Stambanan (Northern Trunk Line), which travels way into the inner parts of northern Sweden before meeting the coast again at [[Umeå]]. Thus, it ''can be'' a good price option between Luleå and the southern parts (from Sundsvall and south) of the country, but not between Luleå and some of the other larger cities along the coastline in the northern half of the country, such as Umeå and Skellefteå). All along the northern coast, bus is the way to travel. [http://www.vy.se '''Vy'''] has a few [[sleeper trains]] scheduled each night between Luleå and [[Stockholm]], about a 14-hr ride; consider paying extra for a bed while booking. The ''Malmbanan'' railway leads from [[Narvik]] in Norway to Luleå via the towns of [[Kiruna]], [[Gällivare]] and [[Boden]]. The railway is not connected to the rest of the Norwegian rail network. The line was mostly intended to deliver the products of Swedish [[mining tourism|mining]] to Norway's northernmost ice-free port and was thus of tremendous strategical importance, but it is also an important link for passenger travel in this remote corner. It also reaches the northernmost points connected to the mainline standard gauge rail network in Europe. There are also regional trains from [[Haparanda]], at the border with [[Finland]] via [[Kalix]] and [[Boden]]. * {{go | name=Luleå Central Station | alt=Luleå centralstation | url=https://www.dinstation.se/lulea-centralstation/ | email= | address=Prästgatan 20 | lat=65.584167 | long=22.165 | directions=Just off city centre, eastern end of Stationsgatan | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Luleå Central Station | image=Luleå centralstation.JPG | wikidata=Q3360372 | lastedit=2019-07-13 | content= }} ===By bus=== '''[https://tapanis.se Tapanis Buss]''' has a line going from Stockholm to [[Tornio]], [[Finland]], with a stop in Luleå. Ticket from Stockholm are 870&nbsp;kr, from Tornio 200&nbsp;kr. As there was no passenger rail traffic to Haparanda (at the Finnish border) 1992–2021, the gap got covered by buses, which are free with most rail passes. The journey to the Finnish border at [[Tornio]]/[[Haparanda]] takes 2½ hr, and onward to [[Kemi]] (with trains all year) another half an hour. Note the [[Timezones|timezone]] difference between Sweden and Finland. Local and regional buses are run by '''[https://ltnbd.se Länstrafiken Norrbotten]'''. {{Marker|type=go|name=Luleå Busstation|wikidata=|lat=65.58540|long=22.16102}} lies 200 m from the railway station. ===By car=== Luleå is on [[E4 through Sweden|E4]] between southern Sweden and [[Tornio]] in Finland and on [[E10 through Sweden and Norway|E10]] from [[Narvik]] in Norway via [[Kiruna]] and [[Gällivare]] to Luleå. ==Get around== {{mapframe|65.584644|22.156930|zoom=14}} A fast, cheap and comfortable way of getting to the different parts of the city, is by using the local bus traffic ([https://www.llt.lulea.se LLT]). Local buses are usually 20 kr per trip. If you plan on making more than 4 trips, buy a 3-day tourist pass from the tourist office, which allows you unlimited travel on local buses for 80 kr. At weekends you should be able to catch a night-bus from most local traffic bus stations about once an hour between 00:00 and 03:00, at a raised cost. ===By taxi=== * {{go | name=TaxiKurir Luleå | url=https://www.taxikurir.se | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 920 10-000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-21 | content=Smart phone app offers address based routing and calculates price according to them. }} ==See== [[File:Nederluleå kyrka 2.jpg|thumb|The Gammelstad church]] * {{see | name=Luleå Archipelago | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=65.487335 | long=22.435241 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2543245 | content=The Luleå archipelago is worth a trip and is available through tour boats during the summer. Klubbviken at the island Sandön is a pleasant stop with a nice beach. }} * {{see | name=Gammelstad | alt= | url=https://www.visitgammelstad.se/en/ | email=gammelstad@lulea.se | address= | lat=65.645215 | long=22.028003 | directions=about 10&nbsp;km north west of Luleå, on a former small island in the delta of the Lule River. It can be reached by local bus. | phone= +46 920-45 70 10 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2020-01-11| content=Gammelstad, literally "old town", is the old parish village. It is a part of the Swedish national heritage, inscribed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]] and was originally the site of Luleå. At its centre is an early 15th-century stone church surrounded by 408 cottages. The town was built to house church visitors from the surrounding countryside, who lived too far away to get back home before nightfall. Due to the [[Ice Age|land rising]] (recovery from the last Ice Age) its harbour got unusable and a new city was established closer to where the sea is now. The church was built in 1492, the year when Columbus arrived in America. }} * {{see | name=Norrbottens museum | alt= | url=http://norrbottensmuseum.se | email= | address= | lat=65.582167 | long=22.138167 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2490616 | content=The county museum with archaeological artefacts. }} * {{see | name=Norrbottens järnvägsmuseum | alt= | url=http://www.nbjvm.se | email=norrbottens.jarnvagsmuseum@telia.com | address= | lat=65.596283 | long=22.067767 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q10602716 | content=A railroad museum, which displays Luleå's role as the southern end of the [[Norrbotten Megasystem]] around the Iron Ore Railroad. }} ==Do== [[File:Lulea Train Station.jpg|thumb|Luleå Train Station]] [https://rail.cc/train/lulea-to-narvik Luleå to Narvik]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is, on average, 7 h 33 min for the {{km|377}} distance. Narvik is the northernmost standard-gauge railway station in the world. This iron Ore Line passes through forests of Sweden, the Scandinavian Mountains and the thick forests of Norrbotten and Lappland. ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Luleå tekniska universitet | alt=Luleå University of Technology, LTU | url=http://www.ltu.se | email= | address= | lat=65.618056 | long=22.138889 | directions=reachable by buses 4, 5 and 8 in the direction of Porsön | phone=+46 920 49-10-00 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1972721 | content=Established in 1971, its faculties include Engineering, Computer Science, Music, Wood Technology, Business, Mining and Space Science. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Shopping | alt= | url=https://www.dios.se/vara-gallerior/shopping/ | email= | address=Storgatan 51 | lat=65.58467 | long=22.15529 | directions=in the centre. | phone=+46 770332200 | tollfree= | hours=M–F 10:00–18:00 Sa 10:00–16:00 Su 12:00–16:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Sweden's (by some definitions Europe's or the world's) first indoor shopping mall. Inaugurated in 1955, but multiple refurbishments since then. }} * {{buy | name=Smedjan | alt= | url=http://www.smedjangalleria.se | email= | address=Storgatan 36 | lat=65.5841 | long=22.15268 | directions=next to the bus hub. | phone=+46 104709826 | tollfree= | hours=M–F 10:00–19:00 Sa 10:00–16:00 Su 12:00–16:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content= }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Max Hamburgers | alt= | url=https://www.max.se/sv/hitta-max/restauranger/lulea-lilla-shopping/ | email= | address=Timmermansgatan 19C, 972 31 Luleå | lat=65.585157 | long=22.154247 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-05-21 | content=Burger chain that has a presence all across Sweden and in some other Nordic countries. Has vegetarian and vegan items on its menu in addition to the regular burgers. }} * {{eat | name=Iraj Kyrkbyn | alt=Iraj Pizzeria | url= | email= | address=Lulevägen 1, Gammelstad | lat=65.64443 | long=22.03141 | directions=Is in Gammelstad Church town. Bus Route 9, walking distance from route 1 and 2 | phone=+46 92076000 | tollfree= | hours=10:30 - 20:00 | price=SEK100 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Great place to eat if you are visiting the church town. }} ==Drink== *{{drink | name=STUK | alt= | url=http://www.stuk.nu | email= | address=Universitetsvägen 9 | lat=65.617887 | long=22.144408 | directions=On the Campus of LTU | phone=+46 920 690-92 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A student bar run by and for LTU-students. You need a student ID or a special "guest ticket" (which can be purchased by LTU students) to get in. }} * *{{drink | name=The Bishop's Arms | alt= | url=https://www.bishopsarms.com/vara-pubar/lulea/ | email= | address=Storgatan 15 | lat=65.583604 | long=22.145530 | directions= | phone=+46 920 27-40-30 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Part of a chain of bars, has a large collection of beers }} * ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Best Western Hotell Savoy | alt= | url=http://www.hotellsavoy.se/ | email= | address=Storgatan 59 | lat=65.584997 | long=22.158081 | directions= | phone=+46 920 195-00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-10 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=First Camp Luleå | alt= | url=http://www.firstcamp.se/sv/hostvintervar/Luleå | email= | address=Arcusvägen 110 | lat=65.595686 | long=22.072165 | directions= | phone=+46 920 603-00 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Cottages and camping, big pool area, restaurants and cafe. }} *{{sleep | name=City Sleep | alt= | url=http://www.citysleep.se/?lang=en | email=info@citysleep.se | address= | lat=65.58448 | long=22.14671 | directions= | phone=+46 920 42-00-02 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From kr&nbsp;450 | content=Clean and minimal but comfortable cheap accommodation in the centre of town. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Clarion Sense | alt= | url=https://www.nordicchoicehotels.se/hotell/sverige/lulea/clarion-hotel-sense/ | email=cl.sense@choice.se | address=Skeppsbrogatan 34 | lat=65.584909 | long=22.152478 | directions=in the centre | phone=+46 920 45-04-50 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-05-20 | content=Mid-range hotel with good facilities. Excellent breakfast spread in-house. }} ==Go next== * [[Piteå]] — Known for the dish "pitepalt" and the local [[Swedish]] dialect ''pitemål''. * [[Skellefteå]] — A mining town renowned for its hockey team. {{routebox | image1=Tabliczka E4.svg | imagesize1=40 | directionl1=S | majorl1=[[Sundsvall]] | minorl1=[[Piteå]] | directionr1=NE | majorr1=[[Tornio]] | minorr1=[[Haparanda]] | link1=E4 through Sweden | image2=Tabliczka E10.svg | imagesize2=40 | directionl2=NW | majorl2=[[Kiruna]] | minorl2=[[Gällivare]] | directionr2=SE | majorr2=END | minorr2= }} {{usablecity}} {{geo|65.6000|22.1500}} {{IsPartOf|Norrbotten County}} jey1r6r5i98zzh11aw0jwnybluvgtk7 0 20588 5289012 5242188 2026-06-07T07:33:48Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5289012 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lymington banner Dinghies leaving Harbour.JPG}} [[Image:Lymington.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Cobbled streets in Lymington's town centre]] '''Lymington''' is a small port in [[Hampshire]] in the [[South East (England)|South East]] of [[England]]. It is adjacent to the [[New Forest]] and faces across the Solent to the western end of the [[Isle of Wight]]. Lymington is a major [[Cruising on small craft|yachting]] centre, with several yacht clubs and a large marina, as well as a ferry port serving [[Yarmouth (England)|Yarmouth]] on the [[Isle of Wight]]. Historically, Lymington was a centre of the salt-drying industry, where salt water was admitted to shallow lagoons and dried out. These abandoned lagoons (called ''saltings'') have now become major sea bird reserves, and the area attracts ornithologists. ==Get in== ===By train=== Lymington is the terminus of a branch rail line from Brockenhurst in the [[New Forest]], where it connects with direct main line service from [[London Waterloo]] and many other parts of the country. Train times can be found on the [http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/ National Rail Planner] or by calling {{phone|0345 748 4950 (domestic)}} from anywhere in the UK. There are two stations in Lymington: {{go | name=Lymington Town train station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.761 | long=-1.537 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1898375 | lastedit=2023-10-13 | content=Lymington Town best serves the central area and marinas. }} {{go | name=Lymington Pier train station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.758 | long=-1.529 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2165461 | lastedit=2023-10-13 | content=Lymington Pier is part of the ferry terminal complex. }} ===By car=== By road, Lymington can be approached from the west along the coast road (the A337 from [[Bournemouth]]. Any other direction requires a crossing of the [[New Forest]] with its sometimes congested roads. There are two alternatives; take the M27 to junction 1 and then the A337 through Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst, or leave the M27 at junction 2 and follow the A326 to Dibden Purlieu and then the B3054 through Beaulieu. ===By ferry=== {{go | name=Lymnington ferry terminal | alt= | url=https://www.wightlink.co.uk/plan-your-journey/routes/lymington-yarmouth | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lymnington ferry terminal | lastedit=2023-10-13 | content=Lymington is linked to [[Yarmouth (England)|Yarmouth]] on the [[Isle of Wight]] by the '''[http://www.wightlink.co.uk/go/isle-of-wight-ferry-routes-destinations/lymington-yarmouth-ferry/ Wightlink car and passenger ferry]''' which runs every half-hour. }} ===By bus=== A few bus services connect to Lymington: the three main services are the '''[http://morebus.co.uk/service.shtml?serviceid=3925 X1/X2]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (operated by Morebus) which go to Bournemouth and the '''[http://www.bluestarbus.co.uk/service.shtml?serviceid=3854 6]''' (operated by Bluestar) which goes to Southampton. All three are quite long journeys end to end, the 6 takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, while the X1/X2 takes around 1 hour 50 minutes to reach Bournemouth. You can buy an Explorer ticket costing £8.60 for one day, which will be valid for both services, (the companies have the same owner). A few less frequent bus services also start/terminate in Lymington -- the two-day-a-week '''[http://morebus.co.uk/service.shtml?serviceid=3933 112]''' to [[Hythe (Hampshire)|Hythe]] and the Monday to Friday '''[http://morebus.co.uk/service.shtml?serviceid=3930 119]''' to New Milton. ==Get around== {{mapframe|50.7580|-1.5460|zoom=13}} Lymington is a small town, and most things of interest are within walking distance. Nonetheless, that doesn't stop you from boarding the train at Lymington Town to get down to the pier station for the ferry service, or using the bus services above to get to local areas. ==See== * {{see | name=Calshot Castle | alt= | url=https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/calshot-castle/ | email= | address=Calshot Road, Calshot, SO45 1BR | lat=50.818258 | long=-1.307462 | directions=14 miles east of Lymington | phone=+44 23 8089-2023 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Adults £3.00, children £2.10, concessions £2.10 | image=Calshot castle evening.JPG | wikidata=Q5023957| wikipedia=Calshot Castle | content=An artillery fort, built by Henry VIII. }} * {{see | name=Hurst Castle | alt= | url=https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/hurst-castle/ | email= | address=Keyhaven, SO41 0TP | lat=50.706503 | long=-1.55121 | directions=5 miles south-west of Lymington | phone=+44 1590 642344 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Adults £4.50, children £2.50, concessions £4.00 | image=Hurst Castle, near Milford on Sea, Hampshire, England-2Oct2010 trimmmed.jpg | wikidata=Q628622| wikipedia=Hurst Castle | content= }} ==Do== * {{do | name=New Forest National Park | alt= | url=https://www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/ | email= | address= | lat=50.87632 | long=-1.633126 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content=The New Forest is a beautiful place to do a variety of outdoor activities. There are numerous off-road cycle paths scattered around the forest, interspersed between and even larger quantity of walking and hiking paths. With wild horses and donkeys year round, and cows in the summer, exploring the heathland of the New Forest seems to take you back to what the UK must have been like centuries past. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== Town centre parking is difficult and on market day (Saturday morning); it is almost impossible. If you shop in Waitrose you are allowed 2 hours parking (please check at the enquiry desk things do change). This will allow you enough time to be have a meal in town. *{{eat | name=Angel & Blue Pig | alt= | url=http://angel-lymington.com/ | email= | address=High St, SO41 9AP | lat=50.758664 | long=-1.540753 | directions= | phone=+44 1590 672050 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM-2PM, 6-9:30PM | price= | content=A comfortable hotel with a very good restaurant nice food, well presented and bar meals, relaxed and comfortable. Service is good and friendly with an option to eat outside in good weather. Popular with the locals and that's always a good sign. }} *{{eat | name=Lanes of Lymington Restaurant & Bar | alt= | url=http://www.lanesoflymington.com | email= | address=Ashley Lane, SO41 3RH | lat=50.757591 | long=-1.541552 | directions= | phone=+44 1590 672777 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM-2PM, 6:30-9:30PM | price=Lunch £12.50, dinner £30.00 average 3-course menu | content=The restaurant is tucked away down a quiet lane, just off the High Street. Serving a modern British menu. }} ==Drink== *{{drink | name=The Ship Inn | alt= | url=https://www.theshiplymington.co.uk/ | email= | address=Quay Hill, SO41 3AY | lat=50.7591 | long=-1.537 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} *{{drink | name=The Mayflower | alt= | url=http://www.themayflowerlymington.co.uk | email= | address=King's Saltern Rd, SO41 3QD | lat=50.751 | long=-1.5308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Stanwell House Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.stanwellhousehotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=14-15 High St, SO41 9AA | lat=50.758672 | long=-1.539225 | directions= | phone=+44 1590 677123 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Britannia House | alt= | url=https://www.britannia-house.com/ | email= | address=Station Street SO41 3BA | lat=50.761 | long=-1.538 | directions= | phone=+44 1590 672091 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £110 | lastedit=2020-06-17 | content=Stylish little B&B near quay. No children under 8 or dogs. }} ==Go next== {{mapgroup | name=Neighbouring destinations | target=Q1018133 }} * {{mapgroup-item|name=[[Isle of Wight]]|wikidata=Q9679|fill=#FFFFFF}} — [http://www.wightlink.co.uk/go/isle-of-wight-ferry-routes-destinations/lymington-yarmouth-ferry/ Wightlink] offers a 40-minute ferry to Yarmouth. * {{mapgroup-item|name=[[Yarmouth (England)]]|wikidata=Q921984|fill=#FFFFFF}} * {{mapgroup-item|name=[[Brockenhurst]]|wikidata=Q1612283|fill=#FFFFFF}} * {{mapgroup-item|name=[[Beaulieu]]|wikidata=Q186954|fill=#FFFFFF}} * {{mapgroup-item|name=[[New Forest]]|wikidata=Q277755|fill=#FFFFFF}} * {{mapgroup-item|name=[[Lyndhurst]]|wikidata=Q3182986|fill=#FFFFFF}} * {{mapgroup-item|name=[[Burley (England)]]|wikidata=Q3195509|fill=#FFFFFF}} * {{mapgroup-item|name=[[Christchurch (England)]]|wikidata=Q925424|fill=#FFFFFF}} * {{mapgroup-item|name=[[Hythe (Hampshire)|Hythe]]|wikidata=Q5962455|fill=#FFFFFF}} * {{mapgroup-item|name=[[Cowes]]|wikidata=Q587996|fill=#FFFFFF}} * {{mapgroup-item|name=[[Newport (Isle of Wight)]]|wikidata=Q985594|fill=#FFFFFF}} {{routebox | image1=AS-prom-icon.svg | imagesize1=40 | directionl1=N | majorl1=END | minorl1= | directionr1=S | minorr1= | majorr1=[[Yarmouth (Isle of Wight)]] }} {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Hampshire}} {{geo|50.75|-1.55}} avj4y9rn6keojngzntb8wmcuz3jpvwe 0 20704 5289014 5193990 2026-06-07T08:06:08Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5289014 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Madagascar_banner.jpg|caption=Landscape near Fianarantsoa}} '''Madagascar''' is a country in the [[Indian Ocean]] off the eastern coast of [[Africa]]. It is known for its particularly unique wildlife and flora. Madagascar split from India approximately 88 million years ago, and as a result of its long isolation it is home to a massive number of unique plant and animal species, with over 90% of its wildlife and 80% of its plants found nowhere else on the planet. ==Regions== [[File:Madagascar Regions map.png|thumb|right|400px|Map of Madagascar with regions colour coded]] {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Antananarivo Province]] | region1color=#e9ea6c | region1items=[[Antananarivo]], [[Antsirabe]] | region1description=The capital is the arrival point for many visitors, and the hub of the domestic airline and land transport routes. Outside of the capital are small towns known for their craft workshops, as well as small reserves that are home to lemurs. | region2name=[[Antsiranana Province]] | region2color=#c0e0a6 | region2items=[[Antsiranana]], [[Masoala National Park]], [[Nosy Be]] | region2description=Home to the beautiful tropical island of [[Nosy Be]], and its surrounding sub-islands, this region is where most travellers go for upscale resorts and pristine beaches, and is one of the most popular destinations in the entire country. | region3name=[[Fianarantsoa Province]] | region3color=#69999f | region3items=[[Fianarantsoa]], [[Ambositra]], [[Ambalavao]], [[Andringitra National Park]], [[Ranomafana National Park]] | region3description=The area south of the capital is home to rain forests and mountains, and relatively accessible via RN7. | region4name=[[Mahajanga Province]] | region4color=#71b37b | region4items=[[Mahajanga]], [[Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve]] | region4description=Mahajanga is home to impressive wetlands and some hidden resorts that can be reached only by private plane or boat. | region5name=[[Toamasina Province]] | region5color=#507027 | region5items=[[Toamasina]], [[Vatomandry]], [[Ile aux Nattes]], [[Andasibe-Mantadia National Park]] | region5description=This province is home to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, where the Indri lemurs sing, and to some less-visited destinations along the eastern coast. | region6name=[[Toliara Province]] | region6color=#aba58b | region6items=[[Toliara]], [[Anakao]], [[Isalo National Park]] | region6description=The southern portion of the country is the land of the spiny forest, with hot and dry conditions leading to an environment of harsh vegetation that is nevertheless home to a vast array of lemurs, lizards, birds and insects. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#e9ea6c|title=[[Antananarivo Province]]|wikidata=Q489821}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c0e0a6|title=[[Antsiranana Province]]|wikidata=Q656073}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#69999f|title=[[Fianarantsoa Province]]|wikidata=Q841197}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Mahajanga Province]]|wikidata=Q218753}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#507027|title=[[Toamasina Province]]|wikidata=Q639418}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#aba58b|title=[[Toliara Province]]|wikidata=Q162020}} ==Cities== {{Mapframe|||zoom=|height=|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Antananarivo]]|url=|lat=-18.91|long=47.53|wikidata=Q3915}}- the capital and usually called ''Tana'' by locals. *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Ambalavao]]|url=|lat=-21.83|long=46.94|wikidata=Q2092364}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Ambositra]]|url=|lat=-20.53|long=47.25|wikidata=Q458440}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Antsirabe]]|url=|lat=-19.87|long=47.03|wikidata=Q583184}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Fianarantsoa]]|url=|lat=-21.45|long=47.09|wikidata=Q527441}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Ihosy]]|url=|lat=-22.41|long=46.13|wikidata=Q1657947}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Morondava]]|url=|lat=-20.29|long=44.28|wikidata=Q864109}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Taolagnaro]]|url=|lat=-25.03|long=46.99|wikidata=Q526568}} (''also commonly known as Fort Dauphin'') *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Toliara]]|url=|lat=-23.35|long=43.67|wikidata=Q824043}} (''also commonly known as Tulear'') ==Other destinations== *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Anakao]]|url=|lat=-23.66|long=43.65|wikidata=Q2845132}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Andasibe-Mantadia National Park]]|url=|lat=-18.94|long=48.43|wikidata=Q2519690}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Andringitra National Park]]|url=|lat=-22.22|long=46.93|wikidata=Q1116933}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Ile aux Nattes]]|url=|lat=-17.11|long=49.81|wikidata=Q292248}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Isalo National Park]]|url=|lat=-22.47|long=45.26|wikidata=Q120414}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Masoala National Park]]|url=|lat=-15.52|long=50.17|wikidata=Q964116}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Nosy Be]]|url=|lat=-13.35|long=48.28|wikidata=Q1330558}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Ranomafana National Park]]|url=|lat=-21.23|long=47.42|wikidata=Q1498242}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve]]|url=|lat=-18.48|long=44.75|wikidata=Q1405154}} ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMadagascar.png}} ===History=== Madagascar's first settlers, the [[Indigenous Taiwanese culture|Austronesians]], likely arrived in the mid-1st millennium CE. The island's first inhabitants are believed to have come from both Southeast Asia and East Africa. Madagascar saw the rise of various powerful kingdoms and chiefdoms. Among them was the Merina Kingdom in the central highlands, which began to dominate in the 15th century. The Merina people developed a sophisticated political structure. [[French Colonial Empire|France]] began to show interest in Madagascar in the 17th century, setting up trading posts along the coast. The French influence grew in the 18th century, particularly as they sought to exploit resources, including valuable timber and spices. In 1896, after a period of escalating tensions, France formally made Madagascar a colony. The French imposed harsh rule, leading to resistance movements, such as the uprising of 1947, which was brutally suppressed. A movement for independence led by figures like Philippe Tsiranana gained support and Madagascar gained independence from France on 26 June 1960, when he became the first president. In the 21st century, Madagascar experienced political instability, including the controversial election of 2001 that led to protests and a military coup in 2009 that ousted President Marc Ravalomanana. The political situation has improved since then, but the country still faces challenges in terms of economic development. ===People=== Despite its proximity to Africa, language and DNA studies show that the people of Madagascar are predominantly ethnically [[Austronesian]]; their ancestors between 350 BCE and 550 CE. Later, around 1000 CE, migrants crossed the Mozambique Channel and arrived from East Africa, and were followed by Arabs, Indians, and Chinese immigrants. The Malagasy way of thinking, as well as their appearance and fashion style, is a mixture of cultures. Madagascar is part of the African Union, but was suspended from the organization from 2009 to 2013. There was political turmoil in Madagascar in 2002 and again between 2009 and 2010, which led to a decrease in tourism, but the situation was resolved to the satisfaction of the international community with the adoption of a new constitution in 2010 and presidential elections in 2013 that were judged to be free and fair. Any continuing political issues seem likely to be debated peacefully with words and not coups or other drastic actions, for the foreseeable future. Madagascar is home to 18 ethnic groups, but the largest and predominant group are the Merina of the central highlands. ===Ecology=== [[File:Katta család.jpg|thumb|250px|Ring-tailed lemur with babies on board.]] {{seealso|Wildlife of Madagascar}} Due to its uniqueness some ecologists refer to it as the "eighth continent". Madagascar is home to nearly 15,000 plant species, with highlights including the massive and ancient baobab trees, the unique spiny forests of the south, over 800 species of orchids, and the dwindling rain forests. Human activity, particularly the fires used for agricultural purposes, have damaged the environment, and since the arrival of humans approximately 90% of the island's original forest has disappeared. Animal life on the island is equally impressive, in particular the more than 100 species of lemurs, nearly all of which are rare or threatened. The island is home to over 300 species of birds, approximately 260 species of reptiles, and a massive number of amphibians and insects. The eastern, or windward side of the island is home to tropical rainforests, while the western and southern sides, which lie in the rain shadow of the central highlands, are home to tropical dry forests, thorn forests, and deserts and xeric shrublands. Madagascar's dry deciduous rain forest has been preserved generally better than the eastern rainforests or the high central plateau, presumably due to historically low population densities. ===Holidays=== * January 1: New Year's Day * March 29: Martyrs Day * Easter (variable) * June 26: Independence Day (celebrates independence from France in 1960) * November 1: All Saints Day * December 25: Christmas ===Climate=== [[File:Fishermen in Nosey Be.jpg|thumb|Fishermen in Nosy Be]] The climate is tropical along the coast, temperate inland, and arid in the south. The weather is dominated by the southeastern trade winds that originate in the Indian Ocean anticyclone, a centre of high atmospheric pressure that seasonally changes its position over the ocean. Madagascar has two seasons: a hot, rainy season from November to April; and a cooler, dry season from May to October. There is great variation in climate owing to elevation and position relative to dominant winds. The east coast has a sub-equatorial climate and, being most directly exposed to the trade winds, has the heaviest rainfall, averaging as much as 3,500 mm (137.8 in) annually. This region is notorious not only for a hot, humid climate in which tropical fevers are endemic but also for the destructive cyclones that occur during the rainy season, coming in principally from the direction of the Mascarene Islands. Because rain clouds discharge much of their moisture east of the highest elevations on the island, the central highlands are appreciably drier and, owing to the altitude, also cooler. Thunderstorms are common during the rainy season in the central highlands, and lightning is a serious hazard. [[Antananarivo]] receives practically all of its average annual 1,400mm (55.1&nbsp;in) of rainfall between November and April. The dry season is pleasant and sunny, although somewhat chilly, especially in the mornings. Although frosts are rare in Antananarivo, they are common at higher elevations. ===Read=== * ''The Eighth Continent: Life, Death, and Discovery in the Lost World of Madagascar'' by Peter Tyson. Extensive descriptions of Madagascar's wildlife, as well as lots of details about Malagasy culture. * ''The Gardens of Mars: Nadagascar, an Island Story'' by John Gimlette. More of a focus on the spectacularly complicated and bloody history of the island's people. * The Bradt Guide to Madagascar ===Tourist information === * [https://madagascar-tourisme.com/en/ Madagascar Tourism] website ==Talk== The entire island speaks one language: [[Malagasy phrasebook|Malagasy]], an Austronesian language. "Malagasy" refers to both the language and the people of the island. Because the island is so large, there are many different dialects. The Merina dialect is the "Official Malagasy" of the island and is spoken around the highlands of [[Antananarivo]]. Most Malagasy, however, speak Merina across the island. Attempts by foreigners to learn and speak Malagasy are liked and encouraged by the Malagasy people. Today, Malagasy is the daily language spoken by 98% of the population in Madagascar, and since 1972, Malagasy has been used as the language of instruction in some schools. As an Austronesian language, Malagasy is more closely related to languages spoken in maritime Southeast Asia and the Pacific islands than to other African languages. French is the second official language of Madagascar, and most individuals encountered in parks and other touristy areas will speak fluent French. English is increasingly common and many hotels and parks will have at least a few English-speaking staff. Italian, German, Spanish and Japanese are understood to a lesser extent in areas where tourists are likely to visit. Some basic Malagasy vocabulary that will help relate to the Malagasy people (there are many different regional versions of the Malagasy language across the country): {| class="wikitable" |- ! Malagasy !! English |- | Vazaha || Foreigner |- | Misoatra || Thank you |- | Salama || Hello |- | Veloma || Goodbye |- | Azafady || Please/Sorry/Excuse me |} ==Get in== <!--[[File:Visa policy of Madagascar.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Madagascar]]--> ===Visa=== Visitors from most countries can obtain a ''Madagascar tourist visa'' upon arrival in Madagascar (information accurate as of March 2020). * For stays of up to 14 nights €10 * For stays of up to '''30 days''' US$37 or €35. * For longer stays of up to '''60 days''' US$45 or €40. * The Antananarivo airport visa on arrival counter was no longer issuing 90-day stays as of November 2018. You must pay for the visa with cash: in US dollars or euros. They also ask for an address of your first night stay. You can get a '''30 day visa extension 80.000Ar''' at the Immigration Office at the ministry of the Interior five minutes from Carlton Hotel in Antananarivo or at the commissariat of police offices around Madagascar. The maximum stay on a tourist visa is 90 days. After 90 days, you can go to Reunion or Mauritius then come back. ===Vaccination=== Prior to your trip, you should ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date; these include polio, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, MMR and typhoid (check with your doctor). If you are travelling through a country where yellow fever is present then you will be required to show proof of vaccination for yellow fever before you will be allowed entry into Madagascar. ===By plane=== [[File:Ivato airport in Antananarivo Madagascar.JPG|thumb|250px|Ivato airport in Antananarivo]] International flights to Madagascar generally either go to [[Antananarivo]] ({{IATA|TNR}}) or Nosy Be ({{IATA|NOS}}). '''[https://madagascarairlines.com/en/index.html Madagascar Airlines]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' is the national carrier and offers flights from [[Paris]] Charles de Gaulle, [[Marseille]] and [[Guangzhou]], Other airlines serving Madagascar: * '''[http://www.flyairlink.com Airlink South Africa]''' provides daily flights from [[Johannesburg]]. * '''Air France''' offer flights from Europe, North America, South America via [[Paris]] Charles de Gaulle. * '''Air Austral''' offer flights to [[Antananarivo]], [[Nosy Be]], [[Toamasina]] from [[Paris]], [[Marseille]], [[Bangkok]], [[Chennai]], [[Johannesburg]], [[Mauritius]], [[Seychelles]]. Flights transfer on [[Reunion]] Island. * '''[http://www.airmauritius.com Air Mauritius]''' from Europe, Asia and Australia via [[Mauritius]]. * '''[http://www.kenya-airways.com Kenya Airways]''' operates regular service from Europe, North America, Asia and Africa via [[Nairobi]]. * '''[https://www.turkishairlines.com Turkish Airlines]''' from Europe, North America, South America and Asia via [[Istanbul]] has some low fares but have two stops via Mauritius and Istanbul * '''[https://www.ethiopianairlines.com/AA/EN Ethiopian Airlines]''' from Africa, Europe, North America, South America and Asia via [[Addis Ababa]]. * '''Comores Aviation''' fly from [[Moroni]] and [[Anjouan]] * '''EWA Air''' fly from [[Mahajanga]], [[Antsiranana]], [[Nosy Be]] to [[Mayotte]]. *'''[https://www.emirates.com Emirates]''' fly from [[Dubai]] Expect to pay around 40 000 Ar to get to Tana by taxi, but drivers might easily ask for 60 000 Ar. Otherwise you can get to the Ivato town nearby and take a taxi-be (a local shared taxi bigger than a van) for around 600 Ar. Because you must also buy a seat for your luggage, it will cost 1200 Ar. ===By boat=== The only regular link used to be between [[Toamasina]] on the east coast and [[Mauritius]] via [[Reunion]]. This service has been suspended since December 2014. If you want to enter Madagascar by boat, you'll have to do it as a passenger on a cargo vessel. Doing so is not recommended; if you want to enter Madagascar with a vehicle, it is best to transport it as cargo and fly yourself. ==Get around== ===By plane=== Madagascar Airlines serves 11 destinations throughout the country, and provide a much faster option than driving given the poor state of many roads. While the airline will provide you with a hotel and book you on the next available flight in the case of a cancellation, don't book tight connections and always confirm your flight time the night before. ===By train=== As of 2023 [http://www.madarail.mg/voyages_train_voyageur.php Madarail] operates only one service, a 9-hour trip between Moramanga (115 km east of Antananarivo) and Ambila Lemaitso on the east coast. The railway dates from the colonial period, so breakdowns are frequent due to poor maintenance, and the line may be closed for several weeks. ===By car=== [[File:Sainte marie Madagascar paved road.JPG|right|250px|thumb|Road in Sainte Marie]] Madagascar's roads are almost all of very low grade (with the exception of 2 routes leading out of Tana). Many roads are studded with potholes and are quagmires in the rainy season. Travel by road will almost always take much more time than you would normally expect. Hire of a 4WD vehicle can reduce this problem but the cost will be higher but still very cost effective if you are not travelling alone and able to split the rental fee between the members of your group (at least US$70/day/car as of October 2014). In nearly all cases a car rental will include the cost of a driver and his accommodation, but verify when booking your rental; most companies will not rent a car without a driver, and in many cases the driver can act as your guide and translator as well. ===By taxi-brousse=== [[File:Y Coetsee Inside a taxi-brousse.jpg|thumb|View from inside a taxi-brousse.]] Taxi-brousse, or interurban shared taxi, is the way most natives travel around the country. There are three major modern roads in the country: RN7 from Tana to Toliara, RN2 from Tana to Tomasina (via Brickaville) and RN4 from Tana to Mahajanga. Trips between those towns take about a day, whereas traveling between Tana and Taolagnaro, a south-eastern coastal town, would take about 3 or 4 days due to the condition of the road. Travel is cramped, and don't expect air conditioning. Expect dust to be a problem in the dry season. Travel by taxi-brousse is guaranteed to test one's patience and sanity, but there is quite possibly no better way to meet and interact with the locals and experience Madagascar as the Malagasy do. Taxi-brousse is by far the cheapest way to travel, but do not expect to leave or arrive on time. Indeed, the drivers wait for their 15-seat small buses to get full before leaving; therefore, a few hours' delay is never excluded. However, the trip allows you to admire the breathtaking landscapes of Madagascar. Most national parks and towns can be reached from Antananarivo; drivers will happily drop you off en route to their final destination. *'''Cotisse Transport''' serves [[Mahajanga]], [[Morondava]], [[Fianarantsoa]] and [[Toamasina]]. *'''Besady Plus''' buses leave on time, whether full or not. The provide free wifi and go between Antananarivo and [[Nosy Be]] via [[Ambanja]] and from Antananarivo to [[Sainte Marie]] via [[Toamasina]]. The tickets include sea transfer. ===By taxi-be=== In Tana, the cheapest way to get around is by taxi-be, or big taxi, which is a bit larger than a mini-van. There is one aisle with seats to fold down so they can cram in even more people. During peak season, buses run frequently. Prices are around 600 Ar, as of November 2018, the 183 which is one of the buses going to Cotisse Transport costs 400 Ar. ===By boat=== [[File:Madagascar local car ferry.jpg|thumb|Ferry crossing Manambolo River]] If you are looking for an unusual holiday, a yacht charter to Madagascar might be a good choice. For those who would like to bareboat, a “guide” is usually included in the price of the yacht charter. Although obligatory, he comes with the price and is essential for the multitude of services he will provide. He will prepare the food, recommend anchorages, know where to fish and refill the water tanks. He will speak the local language and have an established relationship with the local people. He will protect the boat from theft when you leave it to explore on land. The guide lives completely on the exterior of the boat and does not require a cabin. A yacht charter to Madagascar is a bit of a “Robinson Crusoe” adventure. Once you embark, you will not be able to stock up provisions again and must live off the fish and seafood you will catch for yourself (or with your guide). So take great care with your provisioning list. This problem can be avoided by chartering one of the crewed catamarans. The boats are designed for stability so sea sickness is not really a problem. The crew prepare the boat with linen, food and drinks before your arrival -basically these boats are like a personal floating hotel. Depending on which boat you choose you could receive excellent service and food and suggestions of where to go and what to do. Choose your catamaran carefully as there are some really old ones in service- make sure the crew can speak your language. ===By bicycle=== [[File:Cyclo-pousse Madagascar 1.jpg|thumb|Cyclo-pousse.]] Madagascar is a great place to tour by [[cycling|bike]] and staying in small towns and villages along the way gives a real sense of what the country is all about. A mountain bike or heavy duty tourer at least is required as the roads can be in poor to terrible condition. In the rainy season on the east coast the main north-south road can become impassable, possibly leading to a two-day walk - over soft sand in one section - this is not an easily rideable route. Generally there is little to no traffic which makes cruising around a great pleasure. The people are amazingly friendly and you'll be greeted with crowds of children shouting 'Vazaha' in every village. There are few or no facilities for cyclists, so be prepared to camp rough (ask if it is somebody's land and never too near a family grave) or sleep in very basic guesthouses. Likely you will be invited to stay in people's houses. Bring a spare tire, puncture kit, chain, brake or gear cable, derailleur and all the tools you need. ==See== [[File:Adansonia grandidieri04.jpg|300px|thumb|Baobab near Morondava]] * {{see | name=Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1405154 | content=is a {{UNESCO}} and is Madagascar's largest reserve (152,000 hectares). The fascinating raised limestone plateau is decorated with a frail, chaotic razor-sharp collection of pinnacles, the “Tsingy”, also called the Labyrinth of Stone. Areas of deciduous forest also provide the chance to see brown lemurs, a variety of bird life and the rare all white Decken’s sifaka. The great variety of flora includes: aloes, orchids, numerous pachypodium and baobabs. The deciduous forest is home to over 50 species of birds; 7 species of lemurs (including the all-white Deckens sifaka) and the rare stump-tailed chameleon (Brookesia perarmata). The site of Bemaraha is managed under special UNESCO and access is restricted and the areas you are allowed to visit vary from time to time. Located approximately 180 km north of [[Morondava]]. }} * {{see | name=Avenue of the Baobabs | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q788084 | content=is an extraordinary stand of huge baobab trees, 45 minutes north of [[Morondava]] on Madagascar's west coast. It is one of the most visited sites in the Menabe Region. A candidate as one of the 7 Wonders of Africa; efforts are underway to protect this unique grove of more than a dozen trees. Some of the trees, Adansonia grandidieri, are over 800 years old and reach a height of more than 30 metres. A photographer's paradise, and especially beautiful at sunset. }} *Sites from the Merina Kingdom can be seen across different parts of Madagascar. ==Do== Most people visiting Madagascar do so for the wildlife, and there are a number of national parks and private reserves scattered throughout the country. Some are easier to reach than others - the dual [[Andasibe-Mantadia National Park]] area is a few hours from the capital via a paved road, while other parks require days of driving and trekking to explore. [[Scuba diving]] and [[snorkeling]] is exceptional in [[Nosy Be]], and is also possible in other areas like [[Toliara]]. Be aware that the nearest hyperbaric chamber lies across the Mozambique Channel, and that outside of Nosy Be scuba equipment may not be up to expected standards, so exercise caution and be careful to minimize risks when diving. The condition of corals varies from pristine at [[Nosy Tanikely]] to completely destroyed elsewhere, and depending on time of year the visibility may exceed 30 metres, or may be reduced to zero by the outflow from rivers, which, due erosion caused by deforestation, can turn the ocean brown. In the far north near Diego [[kitesurfing]] and [[windsurfing]] are exceptional between April and November when a constant 30 knot-wind makes the area one of the best surfing spots in the southern hemisphere. Kayaking and deep sea fishing are always rewarding water activities. The {{UNESCO}} '''Rainforests of the Atsinanana''' is made up of six national parks along the eastern coast of Madagascar; [[Marojejy National Park]], [[Masoala National Park]], [[Zahamena National Park]], [[Ranomafana National Park]], [[Andringitra National Park]] and [[Andohahela National Park]]. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Malagasy ariary | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;Ar | date=January 2026 | USD=4,600 | EUR=5,400 | GBP=6,200 | ZAR=280 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mga-malagasy-ariary XE.com] }} Local money is the '''Malagasy ariary''', denoted by the symbol "'''Ar'''" (ISO code: '''MGA'''). Ariary banknotes come in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000 Ar. The ariary is subdivided into 5 ''iraimbilanja'', making it one of only two non-decimal currencies, but travellers will never have to deal with this minuscule unit of currency. There are ATMs in larger cities and bigger towns where you can withdraw ariary cash with Visa, Visa Electron, Mastercard, Maestro, Union Pay. Diners Club, American Express, and Discover cards. The withdrawal limit is (usually 400,000 Ar). ATMs are frequently ''en panne'' due to connection problems or other technical difficulties. Carry a US dollar or euro emergency reserve with you. '''BFV Société Générale''' & '''BOA-Bank of Africa''' ATMs have a '''withdraw fee of 8000-10200Ar per withdraw''' for overseas bank cards. All other ATM networks in Madagascar have no withdraw fee at this time. The Seven ATM networks in Madagascar are: *'''AccesBanque''' ATMs take Mastercard, visa card, Union Pay. (no withdraw fee) *'''BGFI''' ATMs only take Visa card. (no withdraw fee) *'''BMOI''' ATMs take only Visa card. (no withdraw fee) *'''BOA-Bank of Africa''' ATMs take only Visa card. *'''BNI''' ATMs take Mastercard and Visa card. (no withdraw fee) *'''BFV Societe Generale''' ATMs take Mastercard, Visa card, Maestro, Union Pay, Diners Club, American Express and Discover cards. *'''MCB-Mauritius Commerce Bank''' ATMs take Mastercard, Visa card, Diners Club and Discover cards. (no withdraw fee). Credit cards are accepted by many hotels, restaurants and shops in Antananarivo and Nosy Be, You may have too pay an extra charge for the credit card commission, which ranges between free and 8%. Occasionally, hotels and other services used by travellers are quoted in euros. Generally, payment in the local currency is expected but euros are usually also accepted. If you wish to pay in euros, clarify the conditions at which the euro price is converted to avoid that a very bad exchange rate is applied. For changing money, as of June 2023, locals will not recommend going to a bank, but rather use the services of a money changer. Money changers are usually ambulant. Ask the receptionist of your accommodation or an expatriate living in Madagascar to recommend you one. Usually, the money changer will come to your hotel for the transaction. You get better rates for large denominations of euros and US dollars and UK pounds and rates are better in Antananarivo than in provincial cities. * '''Socimad''' exchange has a bureau de change (open 24 hours TV) at the Ivato airport, and one in downtown (Lalana Radama 1). ===Shopping=== Vanilla and other spices are cheaper in Madagascar than in Europe or elsewhere, and the quality (especially of vanilla) is very good. ===Tipping=== [[Tipping]] is a matter of much confusion in Madagascar, and is made more confusing because expectations are different when the customer is a foreigner instead of a local. In restaurants and bars you should leave a tip equivalent to ten percent of the total bill. Locals will generally leave far less. If someone helps you with your bags consider a tip equivalent to US$1 per bag. In taxis, rounding the bill upwards is more than sufficient. If you have a private vehicle with a driver, tipping the equivalent of US$10-13 per day is considered extremely generous, while US$5-10 per day is normal for standard service. A good tip for a park guide is approximately US$7-10 per day. Individuals who clean hotel rooms are sometimes not given a salary, so consider leaving a few dollars in the room when you depart (many hotels will have a tip box in the lobby that can also be used to tip the entire staff). When in doubt about how much to tip, consider that even a doctor or university teacher may be making less than 200,000 Ar per month, and remember that in remote areas your tip may set expectations for travelers who follow you, some of whom may be researchers or aid workers with limited funds available (as of October 2018). ==Eat== [[File:Hotely malagasy.jpg|thumb|Hotely malagasy]] The cheapest way to get a meal is to eat at a "hotely". A plate of rice, laoka (malagasy for a side dish accompanying rice) like chicken, beans or pork, and rice water costs about 3000 Ar (2020). For 1000 Ar extra you can get a small glass of homemade yoghurt. Bananas (hundreds of varieties) and rice cakes (Malagasy 'bread') are staple 'street food' and available everywhere. Coffee is very good, usually hand-made by the cup and served very sweet with condensed milk. Steak-frites is available in restaurants in the larger towns. ===Supermarkets=== There are supermarkets all over Madagascar. The four biggest supermarkets chains are Super U, Score, Leader Price and Supermaki. All four Western style supermarket chains are well stocked. There are many Leader Price & Super U-branded goods but also some more local produce (veg, spices, etc.) Super U is slightly cheaper and has many stores in Antananarivo, Mahajanga, Toamasina and Antsirabe. ==Drink== There is no safe tap water so be prepared with bottled water, which is usually easily obtainable. The only other option is ranon'apango (RAN-oo-na-PANG-oo) or rice water (water used to cook rice, which will therefore have been boiled). It's particularly important to plan ahead if visiting rural areas. It is worth taking with you some chlorine tablets, which can be used to make the local water drinkable. In towns, roadside drink stands, stores and bars are plentiful. Most sell a range of drinks including bottled water, Fanta, Coca Cola and Madagascar's beer, Three Horses Beer (THB). You can also try the bubblegum flavoured 'Bonbon Anglais', which is to South American Inka Cola, although it may be sold as 'limonade' - leading you to think it may be lemonade. Home brewed rum, and crème de coco, is also available in many flavours. ==Sleep== Lodging quality varies dramatically throughout the country, from dorm-style rooms to luxury five-star resorts. In most places room prices will be quoted per room, although many luxury resorts quote prices per person. Insect nets and private bathrooms are provided in nearly all of the more upscale lodging, although in lower-priced establishments you may need to provide your own bug net. There are backpacker hostels in a few places with prices from US$5. ==Learn== Learn some Malagasy. The single best thing you can do to have a fun and safe trip is to speak the local language. There are a number of guidebooks you can buy to learn Malagasy, or alternatively you can ask someone to teach you. Just a few words will make all the difference. ==Stay safe== Madagascar is a fairly safe country. You must, however, respect some simple principles: *Don't walk around at night in Antananarivo (other cities are pretty safe). *Don't exhibit signs of wealth (cameras, jewels). *Similarly, always carry small notes. Paying with large denomination notes shows off your wealth, can insult the seller because they will not have change, and opens you up for becoming a target for crime. *Keep an eye on your belongings when using public transport or visiting markets where numerous [[pickpockets]] swarm. *Learn the Malagasy word for thief, "Mpangalatra" which is pronounced "Pun-gul-ah-tra". If someone is trying to rob you in a busy market area scream this. The fact that a vazaha is screaming thief will unsettle the thief and alert the people near you to help. *Always listen for the words "vazaha" or "vazongo" when spoken in low tones. If you hear these words be aware that someone is talking about you, for better or for worse! The centre of Antananarivo should be avoided, as well as the Ankato area, Avenue de L'Indépendance, Ambohijatovo, Analakely, Bohorika, Isoraka, Ampasamandinika, 67ha, Isotry and the area around the military barracks. Elsewhere in the country, Nosy Be, Toamasina (Tamatave), Mahajunga, Ankarana, Isalo, Montagne d'Ambre Nature Reserve, Tuléar and Batterie Beach, and the RN 7 and RN 27 roads are particularly to be avoided. Like any other developing country, there are a lot of beggars. This is sometimes uncomfortable for tourists, but these people should be respected nonetheless. They are, predictably, attracted to foreigners and will not hesitate to ask for a hand-out. If you don't want to give, a simple "Non, merci" or "Tsy Misy (tsee-meesh)" (I have nothing) will do the trick. If they persist, try shouting "Mandehana! (man-day-han)" (Go Away!) It is recommended not to give money, but other useful items, such as a banana, a piece of bread, etc. It is usually accepted with gratitude, and if the beggar is a child, he will run away with a smile on his face. It is imperative not to encourage begging - in Madagascar the people do not really believe in getting something for nothing and will invariably offer you something first. For example a chameleon to photograph. ==Stay healthy== Visitors to Madagascar should be aware of a vast number of health concerns. Diseases such as the plague, which are almost unheard of elsewhere, still occur in Madagascar. '''[[Drinking water]]''' is almost never safe for foreigners; treated or bottled water should always be used, and salads or dishes containing unpeeled fruits or vegetables should be avoided. While the AIDS epidemic has not reached the devastating level found in many southern African countries, it is widely assumed that the incidence of AIDS is underestimated and rising, so you should take no risks and avoid unprotected sex in all cases. When swimming, beware of the possibility of human waste in the water, which can cause cholera, typhoid, and a number of other diseases. Leeches and tropical parasites are also a concern. Research '''[[malaria]]''' prophylaxis options, and follow through. If you are not taking any prophylactics, be sure to always use a mosquito net for sleeping, and apply mosquito repellents once dusk sets in. On-skin repellent (only repellents containing ~40% DEET are effective, such as NoBite, or Azeron Before Tropics) is good but should be used in combination with on-clothes repellent (i.e., NoBite). The clothes repellent is odorless approximately an hour after application, and clothes can be washed up to 4 times before it needs to be re-applied. If you wear long-sleeve clothing treated with the repellent and apply on-skin repellent to the skin parts not covered, you will be very safe against mosquito bites and can skip the prophylaxis with its notorious side effects. Take the repellent issue seriously, though, as it's very easy to fall into a more 'relaxed' mode after you've spent some time in the country. Areas inhabited by humans will invariably have large populations of stray dogs. Avoid stray dogs, and although bites are rare, if bitten seek medical assistance promptly as rabies is not unheard of. Remember that Madagascar is in the tropics and take precautions against sunburn and heat exhaustion seriously. Wear lots of sunscreen and keep hydrated. A cloudy day does not mean you won't get burnt. ==Respect== [[File:Madagascar74.182.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Picture of a tomb taken in the 70s]] Everyday life in Madagascar is regulated by numerous ''fady'' (taboos) which vary from one region to another. They can forbid foods (lemur, turtle, beef), wearing clothes of a particular colour, bathing in a river or a lake, etc. Observance of "Fady" is mostly limited to rural areas, as tourists will most likely not encounter this problem if they stay in the main towns. However, there are Fadys in places such as Antananarivo but most vazaha are exempt. Fady are attributed to ancestors, to whom Malagasy adopt a respectful attitude whatever their religion. It is safest to respect these prohibitions and not violate them, even if you feel they don't make sense. Inform yourself about local fady when you arrive in a new place. When addressing anyone older than you or in a position of authority (e.g. police, military, customs officials), use the word "tompoko (toom-pook)" the same way you would use "Sir" or "Ma'am" in English. Respect for elders and authority figures is important in Madagascar. Do not ever take photos of a tomb without permission. Always ask permission before taking photos. Also, if you go to a remote village or hamlet it is fomba or tradition that you first meet with the head of the village if you have business in the village. Meeting this person can save you a lot of time if you have work to do there. ==Connect== International phone calls and 4G Internet via data can be done via cell phone companies such as '''Airtel''', '''Orange''' or '''Telma''' they work off prepaid phone cards. International phone calls using Telma to Europe cost 900 Ar per minute. There are also Internet cafes in the major cities and most large towns. Electricity may be erratic. Many areas have either mandatory shutdown hours or rationing. It's best to bring an openline smart phone and buy a SIM card when you get to Madagascar. It's also useful to have a powerbank. Most hotels now also have Wi-Fi. You can also easily buy a SIM card from anyone of the cell phone companies and get a data plan. The process is fairly easy compared to other countries and SIM cards can be bought directly in the airport with the whole activation and buying process being done in less than 10 minutes. SIM cards and credit are also among the few things you can easily get hold of throughout the country, including in provincial towns and small rural villages. As of December 2018, a 12GB data plan good for 30 days is 75 000 Ar. Do not expect a data connection everywhere on the island, but when you do have data connection, the fast 4G network is fairly impressive and allows free [[Internet telephony|VoIP calls]]. Telma sells their SIM cards for 500 Ar. Orange sells their SIM card for 2000 Ar. A stamp for a postcard to anywhere in Europe costs 1100 Ar. {{related|Islands of the Indian Ocean}} {{usablecountry}} {{isPartOf|East African Islands}} {{geo|-20|47|zoom=7}} tt01q4v4hvdlbydenaqlywbmzlo49la 0 20795 5289018 5248195 2026-06-07T08:25:07Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5289018 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg|caption=}} '''Magaluf''' is a major holiday resort in the [[Serra de Tramuntana]] region of Mallorca, a short way west of the capital Palma. It's notorious for its raucous young holiday-makers binge-drinking in the pubs and clubs. In 2022 it had a resident population of 5200, but in summer there's probably that many visitors boozing in the main square alone. == Understand == The name "Magaluf" sounds Arabic, but no-one knows. The little island of Porassa gives shelter to its bay, a great help to the storm-tossed James I of Aragon in 1229, but the shore was just marshland until 1960. Then it was made-over into a sandy beach, and big boxy hotels sprang up along it. Cheap aviation and a short transfer time from the airport drove a surge in budget package tourism, mostly British with a sprinkling of German, Dutch and Scandinavian. Low-price alcohol and drunken cavorting was a major part of the appeal, and shock stories in the newspapers and TV documentaries only boosted its allure. This deters other tourists, and the local authorities talk the talk about curbing alcohol-fueled excess and broadening Magaluf's appeal. Families can enjoy the beaches and waterparks but need to pick hotels insulated from the thump-thump-thump of 2 am discos. In winter there are still stag- and hen-parties on wild weekends but most visitors are pensioners escaping their cold northern homes. == Get in == {{mapframe | 39.515 | 2.545 | height=600 | width=600 | zoom=14 }} Palma Airport ({{IATA|PMI}}) brings an inexhaustible supply of tourists to the fleshpots of Magaluf. It's a short way east of Palma city, about 30 km from Magaluf via the ring road, and a taxi in 2024 might cost €25. Frequent [https://www.tib.org/en/linies-i-horaris TIB] buses run from [[Palma de Mallorca]], taking about 45 minutes: * Bus 104 to Portals Nous, Palmanova and Magaluf, daily every 15 min. * Bus 105 to Costa d'en Blanes, Portals Nous, Palmanova, Magaluf and Sol de Mallorca, daily hourly. * Bus 106 to Costa d'en Blanes, Portals Nous, Palmanova, Sa Porassa and Santa Ponça, M-Sa hourly and every two hours on Sunday. * Buses 107 and 108 also run via Portals Nous on their way to the west coast. Buses make multiple stops along the main boulevards and there isn't a town bus station. All buses are low-step, as TIB know their passengers are agile young things temporarily hobbled by attempting funky moves on the dance floor. == Get around == The buses serve the entire hotel strip. A single ticket is €3, see [[Palma de Mallorca#Get around]] for other fare options. == See == * '''A total [[Solar eclipses | solar eclipse]]''' on Wednesday 12 Aug 2026, starting at 20:31 and lasting 90 seconds. The chances of a clear sky are 65%, but you need to move 20 km west to the coast around Port d'Andratx to get a clear view to the horizon, as the sun will be setting over the sea. A few minutes later, sunset ends the show. * {{marker | name=Isla de Sa Torre | type=see | lat=39.5298 | long=2.5884 }} off Portals Nous is named for its 16th century defence tower. No public access, but you see enough from the headland of Cabo Tocinillo. * '''Fortín Military Prison''' is an overgrown area on the slopes above Cabo Tocinillo. This is where General Franco sent POWs of the forces against him, unless it amused him more to kill them. It's an important facet of history but is set to remain overgrown while Spain is conflicted about this era. * {{marker | name=Altar del Puig d'es Capità | type=see | lat=39.5416 | long=2.5755 }} is a shrine and pilgrimage destination in the hills above Bendinat. It was established by the owners of Castell de Bendinat 500 m northeast, a late 19th century cod-castle which is now an events venue. * {{marker | name=Platja de Palmanova | type=see | lat=39.5235 | long=2.5393 }} or Es Carregador is the first good sandy beach coming west from Palma. It's interrupted by the outcrop of Punta Marroig then continues south for a km. * '''Platja de Son Maties''' is the final stretch of this beach, beyond another little outcrop. * {{marker | name=Platja de Magaluf | type=see | lat=39.5079 | long=2.5361 }} is 500 m long. * {{marker | name=Isla de Sa Porressa | type=see | lat=39.5038 | long=2.5454 }} or Black Lizard Island is the scrubby islet in the bay. It's 400 m offshore so it's within swimming or SUP distance, but all you'll see here is a rear view of all the black lizards scuttling for cover, then you might as well head back. * {{marker | name=Cala Figuera | type=see | lat=39.4625 | long=2.5196 }} is a cove with a small rocky beach on an undeveloped headland. The access lane is closed to visitor vehicles, so it's a 2 km hike from the public road. 200 m south of the cove is a crumbling ancient lighthouse and a modern one. == Do == * {{do | name=Marineland | alt= | url=https://www.marineland.es/mallorca/ | email= | address=C Garcilaso de la Vega 9, Costa d'en Blanes | lat= | long= | directions=by Portals Nous Marina | phone=+34 680 519 863 | tollfree= | hours=May-Oct daily 10:00-17:30 | price=Adult €30, child €21 | lastedit=2024-07-21 | content=Large marine zoo with aquarium, reptiles, penguins and so on. }} * {{see | name=Pirates Adventure | url=https://www.piratesadventure.com/ | email= | address=C Porrassa 12, Magaluf | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 971 130 659 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Adult €35 | lastedit=2024-07-20 | content=Sounds like a theme park, but it's cabaret-cum-circus over dinner. }} * '''[https://mallorca.katmanduparks.com/ Katmandu Park]''' is a theme park at Av Pedro Vaquer Ramis 9, next to Sol Katmandu Hotel, aimed at younger children. * '''[https://kcsa72.wixsite.com/kartingmagaluf Karting Magaluf]''' is on C Porrassa 100 m west of Pirates Adventure. * {{do | name=Western Water Park | url=https://www.westernpark.com/ | email= | address=C de Cala Figuera | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 971 131 203 | tollfree= | hours=May-Oct daily 10:00-18:00 | price=Adult €33, child €27 | lastedit=2024-07-21 | content=Water park with flumes, slides and the like. }} * '''Boat trips:''' a dozen operators, but these are not the sort of excursions where you snorkel in secluded coves and watch the dolphins disport by some islet ''castillo''. They're booze cruises where you get wasted then chunder the lot back into the Med. * '''[[Scuba diving]]:''' [https://www.bigbluediving.net/ Big Blue Diving] offer courses and run trips. The Med is well-suited to beginners and low-experience divers. * '''Golf:''' [https://t-golf.club/ T-Golf Calvià] is a parkland course on C Cala Figuera towards the southern headland. White tees 6450 m, par 72. : Santa Ponça GC is closer, but see [[Calvià]] for this course west of the headland. : [https://www.realgolfbendinat.com/ Real Golf de Bendinat] is in the hills above Cas Català just west of Palma city. * '''[https://mallorcalivefestival.com/ Mallorca Live]''' is a music festival over a weekend in mid-June, at Sa Porassa 1 km inland from Magaluf. * '''Fiestas de Verano''' are summer music festivals in several towns. The Magaluf fiesta is mid-August. == Buy == [[File:Magalluf 2016 (26114684683).jpg | thumb | 300px | Even in Magaluf he can only smoke outside ]] * Lots of convenience stores. Aldi have big supermarkets at Av de l'Olivera in town centre, and in La Vila Centre Comercial near Katmandu Park, both open daily 09:00-22:00. * Lidl and Mercadona are the main stores in Palma Nova. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Tom Brown's | alt= | url=https://www.tombrownsmagaluf.com/ | email= | address=Contralmirall Pou 2 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 971 131 989 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 08:30-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2024-07-21 | content=Popular long-established British bar and grill on Magaluf beachfront. }} * '''Others''' you might look out nearby are Mesón Rincón Español, [https://restaurantepuertorico.net/ Puerto Rico] and [https://www.zheroboathouse.com/ Zhero Boathouse]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. * '''Bunsik''' is a Korean restaurant at Pere Vaquer Ramís 12, open Tu-Su. == Drink == * {{drink | name=BCM | url=https://bcmmallorca.com/ | email= | address=Av de l'Olivera | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Sol Katmandu Hotel | phone=+34 687 570 130 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 22:00-06:00 | price=Adult €40 | lastedit=2024-07-21 | content=Huge nightclub, the main floor attracts famous DJs whilst the lower floor immerses its dancers in foam, water or even popcorn. Admission includes two drinks before midnight and a third before 1 am. }} * '''[https://squaremagaluf.com/ BCM Square]''' outside the nightclub has Morgan's, [https://linktr.ee/zeppelinlivemusicbar Zeppelin]{{Dead link|date=March 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, Peaky Blinders, Sinky's Scottish Pub and Moon Bar. Th block south has [https://cocobongosmallorca.com/ Coco Bongos]{{Dead link|date=February 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, Jokers Club, Britannia, Windsor Bar, Mano's, Dreams and The Local Pub. * {{drink | name=Banana Joe's Disco Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=C dels Pinzons 65 | lat= | long= | directions=50 m east of Globales Panama | phone=+34 677 181 986 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 08:30-04:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-07-21 | content=Long established place on the strip, a pub bistro by day then a dance club into the small hours. }} == Sleep == [[File:House of Katmandu Palmanova Mallorca.jpg | thumb | 300px | Upside-down house at Katmandu Park ]] : Everything here can be considered mid-range. * '''Portals Nous''' has lots of accommodation - this area is more like a western district of Palma than the east end of the Magaluf strip. * {{sleep | name=Globales Panama | alt= | url=https://www.globales.com/en/hotels/spain/majorca/palmanova/globales-panama/ | email= | address=C de Paris 4, Palmanova | lat=39.5196 | long=2.5330 | directions= | phone=+34 971 680122 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2024-05-26 | content=Smart clean hotel in a good spot, near beach and bars but quiet within. }} * {{sleep | name=tent Palmanova | alt= | url=https://www.tenthotels.com/es/tentPalmanova/ | email= | address=C de Paris 1, Palmanova | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Globales Panama | phone=+34 971 680122 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2024-05-26 | content=Clean with good brunch buffet but nowhere to hang your clothes. }} * {{sleep | name=Fergus Bermudas | alt= | url=https://www.fergushotels.com/en/hotels/fergus-bermudas/ | email= | address=C del Pinzons 20, Palmanova | lat= | long= | directions=by Globales Panama | phone=+34 971 680050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2024-05-26 | content=Good scores all round for comfort, service and catering. }} * '''[https://www.zafirohotels.com/en/hotels/zafiro-palace-palmanova/ Zafiro Palace]''' has swim-up suites. It's at Av de Cas Saboners 24, 200 m southwest of Globales Panama. * {{sleep | name=Reverence Mare | alt= | url=https://www.reverencehotels.com/en/hotel-reverence-mare-in-palmanova/ | email= | address=C Germans Moncada 17 | lat= | long= | directions=200 m east of Globales Panama | phone=+34 971 680100 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2024-05-26 | content=Mostly good, but catering sometimes disappointing especially for veggies. Geared for hen parties. }} * {{sleep | name=Son Matias Beach | alt= | url=https://www.matiasbeach.com/ | email= | address=C Duc de L'Extremera 2, Palmanova | lat=39.5148 | long=2.5375 | directions= | phone=+34 971 681550 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2024-05-26 | content=Grand little hotel right on the beach. }} * {{sleep | name=Fergus Style Tobago | alt= | url=https://www.fergushotels.com/en/hotels/fergus-style-tobago/ | email= | address=C Martin Ros Garcia 1, Palmanova | lat=39.5122 | long=2.5408 | directions= | phone=+34 971 680500 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €190 | lastedit=2024-05-26 | content=Slick modern hotel on the headland between the main beaches. }} * '''[https://www.hotelflamboyan-caribe.com/ Hotel Flamboyant]''' is on the headland at C Martín Ros García 16. * '''[https://www.hotelfloridamagaluf.com/ Hotel Florida]''' is further along the headland at C Torrenova 33. * '''[https://www.globales.com/en/hotels/spain/majorca/palmanova/cooks-club-calvia-beach/ Cook's Club]''' is an inexpensive place at C Pineda near the headland. * {{sleep | name=Sol Katmandu Park | url=https://www.melia.com/en/hotels/spain/majorca/sol-katmandu-park-and-resort | email= | address=C Galió | lat=39.5104 | long=2.5338 | directions= | phone=+34 971 130950 | tollfree= | price=B&B double €250 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2024-07-21 | content=Agreeable hotel by the theme park. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Samos | alt= | url=https://www.hotelsamos.com/ | email= | address=Av de l'Olivera 12 | lat=39.5090 | long=2.5331 | directions= | phone=+34 971 131700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2024-07-21 | content=Value-for-money hotel near main beach. }} * {{sleep | name=Sol y Vera | url=https://www.solyvera.com | email= | address=Av de l'Olivera 5 | lat= | long= | directions=100 m south of Hotel Samos | phone= | tollfree= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2024-07-21 | content=Budget self-catered accommodation near BCM square; large rooms and kept clean. }} * {{sleep | name=Sol House The Studio | alt= | url=https://www.melia.com/en/hotels/spain/majorca/sol-house-the-studio-calvia-beach | email= | address=C Blanc 2 | lat=39.5078 | long=2.5331 | directions= | phone=+34 971 131400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2024-07-21 | content=Very mixed reviews for comfort and service. }} [[File:Mallorca Isla de sa Porrassa asv2023-04.jpg | thumb | 300px | Nothing there but scrub and black lizards ]] * {{sleep | name=Sol Guadalupe | alt= | url=https://www.melia.com/en/hotels/spain/majorca/sol-guadalupe | email= | address=C de Sa Porrassa | lat=39.5061 | long=2.5307 | directions= | phone=+34 971 131958 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €80 | lastedit=2024-07-21 | content=Too many rowdy drunken adolescents. }} * {{sleep | name=HSM Atlantic Park | alt= | url=https://www.saintmichel.net/en/hsm-atlantic-park/ | email= | address=C de la Barca 2 | lat=39.5037 | long=2.5278 | directions= | phone=+34 971 130600 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) €120 | lastedit=2024-07-21 | content=Mostly good reviews though some rooms tired and catering variable. }} * '''[https://www.hsmdonjuan.com/ HSM Don Juan]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' is next to HSM Atlantic at C Calderón 4. * '''[https://www.hmhotels.com/hm-martinique/ HM Martinique Apartments]''' are next to HSM Atlantic Park at C Tirso de Molina 1. * {{sleep | name=Dreams Calvia | alt= | url=https://www.hyattinclusivecollection.com/en/resorts-hotels/dreams/espana/calvia/ | email= | address=Av Notari Alemany 34 | lat=39.5024 | long=2.5331 | directions= | phone=+34 911 229855 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2024-07-21 | content=Good reviews all round for this Hyatt chain hotel south end of Calvia beach. }} == Stay safe == First and foremost, don't get blind drunk. The sheer number of revellers makes the streets safe at night. Opportunistic crime includes pickpocketing and drink-spiking. == Connect == As of July 2024, Magaluf and its approach roads have 5G from all Spanish carriers. == Go next == * [[Palma de Mallorca]] the island capital needs a couple of days to explore. * [[Andratx]] is an upmarket resort village on the island's west tip. {{geo|39.5069444|2.5380555}} {{isPartOf|Serra de Tramuntana}} {{usablecity}} jm6lzixbo72i7fjhl9pzn1qc6oc8i6h 0 21018 5289023 5283745 2026-06-07T09:09:20Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5289023 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Malmö Västra hamnen banner.jpg|caption=Västra hamnen with the Turning Torso}} '''Malmö''' is [[Sweden]]'s third largest city with a population of about 352,000 (2021), and the capital of the province of [[Scania]] (Skåne) on the southern tip of the country. Malmö is a port city on the Öresund strait, facing [[Copenhagen]] on its other bank, with which it is connected by the Öresund bridge. Together, the two cities form a duopolis and a core of a larger Oresund region spanning parts of Denmark and Sweden. Malmö was an industrial city, with a port and a shipyard, but the shipyard was dismantled in the late 20th century. The city recovered and reinvented itself as a modern metropolis, a poster example of sustainable development and a thriving multicultural centre, even though it lacks the recognition as a major tourist destination like [[Copenhagen]] or [[Stockholm]]. == Understand == [[File:Möllevångstorget 2017-3.jpg|thumb|Markets at Möllevångstorget]] === History === Founded in 1272 as a fortified port a day's walk from [[Lund]], Malmö was for centuries the second-largest city of Denmark. It served as a [[Hanseatic League|Hanseatic port]] and a very lucrative trade area. Malmö dominated Skåne as the largest market hub, until Copenhagen grew larger during the 16th century. In 1658, as a result of the Great Northern War, Denmark ceded the Scanian lands, including the city of Malmö, to Sweden in the Second Treaty of Roskilde. As Copenhagen experienced a series of devastating fires and bombardments, in particular through the 1700s, Malmö is surprisingly the best place in the world to see Danish [[Renaissance architecture]]. After an industrial revolution, Malmö grew rapidly and served as one of the earliest and most industrialized cities of Scandinavia. Until the turn of the millennium it was regarded more as a dull worker's city in the backdrop of Lund (a university and cathedral town) and Copenhagen. The opening of the Öresund Bridge-tunnel in 2000 reignited the soul of a bustling Hanseatic port that had lain dormant for so many centuries. Since 2011, this new landmark is featured in the acclaimed Swedish-Danish [[Nordic noir]] crime series ''The Bridge''. Today about a third of the Malmö population are from various other countries, making the city the most cosmopolitan in Sweden. This has contributed to a rich cultural life and many exotic and fine food opportunities. The ship building Kockums company used to be the city's biggest employer, but today the industrial city of old has been replaced by vast areas of middle-class suburban housing and modern eco-friendly neighbourhoods. ===Tourist information === * [https://malmo.se/Uppleva-och-gora/Besoka-Malmo.html Visit Malmö] website ==Get in== ===By plane=== <!-- I have put Copenhagen Airport first, as the majority of visitors — especially international visitors reading the English WikiVoyage — will use this. Most Malmö residents will also use Copenhagen airport when travelling internationally. --> ==== Copenhagen Airport ==== International visitors will find the best flight connections using [[Copenhagen Airport]] ({{IATA|CPH}}) in Denmark, just across the Öresund bridge from Malmö. It is Scandinavia's largest aviation hub and offers a multitude of European and intercontinental connections by most European flag carriers, as well as other major international airlines. There are frequent [http://www.oresundstag.se/en/ Øresundståg trains] departing from a station inside the airport terminal that stop in stations in Malmö (Hyllie, Triangeln and Malmö Central). The journey from the airport across the bridge to Malmö takes about 20 minutes, and trains run every 15 minutes during the day, reducing to every hour or so in the middle of the night. You can also take a bus across the Oresund, which can be slightly cheaper (though slower and less frequent) than the train. Taxis are also available; signs in the arrivals hall direct you outside to two separate queues of Danish and Swedish taxis. Taxi fare to Malmö city centre should be about 650–750 SEK. As always with Swedish taxis, check the window sticker on the taxi to check the fare before boarding to avoid inadvertently selecting an overly expensive option (there is no limitation of taxi fares in Sweden and all taxis can charge anything they want as long as it is clearly indicated), or better yet, discuss the fare to Malmö with the driver before deciding – you can expect them to speak good English. ==== Malmö Airport ==== [[File:Sturup airport.jpg|thumb|Sturup's terminal in characteristically yellow]] Malmö Airport is mostly served by low-fare, charter and regional carriers. There are three connections from [[Stockholm]] – with SAS ([[Stockholm Arlanda Airport|Arlanda]]), Norwegian (Arlanda) and BRA (Bromma) – and regional airlines fly from other destinations within Sweden. International flights are covered by many charter and scheduled flights from vacation destinations in Southern Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. The only carrier operating scheduled international flights to Malmö Airport is [http://wizzair.com WizzAir], connecting Malmö to the largest cities in central, eastern and southeastern Europe. {{go | name=Malmö Airport | alt={{IATA|MMX}}, until 2007 known as Sturup Airport | url=http://www.swedavia.com/malmo/ | email= | address= | lat=55.53 | long=13.371389 | directions=30 km by road from central Malmö | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Malmö Airport | image=Sturup airport.jpg | wikidata=Q898922 | lastedit=2017-11-26 | content= }} From Malmö Airport you can take the [https://www.flygbussarna.se/en/malmo Flygbussarna coach] to Malmö centre (40 min). On Saturdays, however, there are only a limited number of buses, so please check the bus-schedule at Flygbussarna's webpage. Another option is taking a taxi, but this is far more expensive. ===By train=== Malmö is well served by trains, including frequent regional and commuter services within [[Scania]] as well as long-distance trains from [[Gothenburg]] and [[Stockholm]]. There are trains running across the Öresund bridge from [[Copenhagen]] at least every 30 minutes. In Copenhagen, there are further connections from most Danish cities as well as from [[Hamburg]]. [[File:Malmö C från Posthusplatsen.jpg|thumb|Malmö Central station is located at a canal right across from the old town]] Regional [https://www.oresundstag.se '''Øresundståg'''] leave all day from [[Copenhagen]] (Østerport, Nørreport and Copenhagen Central stations), calling at [[Copenhagen Airport]] before crossing the Öresund bridge to Malmö. In the opposite direction trains run from [[Gothenburg]] (with connections from [[Oslo]]) via [[Varberg]], [[Halmstad]], [[Helsingborg]] and [[Lund]]. Trains from [[Copenhagen]]'s central station to Malmö Central take approximately 40 minutes (including possible border checks at Hyllie), costing 150 SEK when purchased from Skånetrafiken or 94 DKK if using a Danish Rejsekort (as of Decemeber 2025). However, using the Skånetrafiken app to purchase tickets will provide passengers a 24-hour ticket option for unlimited use in Copenhagen and Malmö’s public transport systems (including Øresundståg stations covered in the zone which the ticket is valid) from 300 SEK (the cost of two one-way tickets between Copenhagen and Malmö). Additionally, frequent and regular commuter trains, called ''Pågatåg'' and operated by [https://www.skanetrafiken.se '''Skånetrafiken'''], run from destinations throughout the province of [[Scania]] such as [[Lund]], [[Helsingborg]], [[Höör]] and [[Ystad]]. From [[Stockholm]], there are hourly high-speed trains taking 4½ hours, operated by '''[https://www.sj.se/en/ SJ]'''. A low cost alternative on the same route is the twice or thrice daily [https://www.snalltaget.se '''Snälltåget'''], taking around five hours (depending on number of stops). Limited night train services are available too. During summer, [https://www.snalltaget.se '''Snälltåget'''] runs a train from [[Berlin]] thrice a week. In winter season, the same company runs a service to and from the ski resort [[Åre]]. The main stations on the line running through Malmö are: [[File:Triangelns station, Södra nedgången.jpg|thumb|Triangeln. One of two glass-covered entrances to the underground station.]] * {{go | name=Malmö Centralstation | alt=Malmö Central Station | url=http://www.dinstation.se/malmo-centralstation/ | email= | address=Skeppsbron 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Malmö Central Station | image=Malmö C, centralplan.jpg | wikidata=Q575797 | lastedit=2018-07-31 | content=Malmö's main train station, with a refurbished historic terminal building housing a small shopping centre, gastronomic options and other facilities. It is directly to the north of the Old Town and to the east of the Västra Hamnen and the Turning Torso. There are bus connections to every part of the city, but to most points of interest you can easily walk – or rent a bike right in front of the station. }} * {{go | name=Triangeln | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.591944 | long=13.001667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Triangeln station | image=Triangelns station byggs.jpg | wikidata=Q2196259 | content=Triangeln is an entirely underground station in the middle of the City Tunnel, in the southern part of Malmö's centre. It is also a very convenient option to those visiting Malmö, especially those who would like to explore the shopping options and the gastronomic variety of Möllevångstorget. }} * {{go | name=Hyllie | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.562694 | long=12.975833 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Hyllie railway station | image=Hyllie station byggs.jpg | wikidata=Q1844369 |lastedit=2018-12-20| content=Hyllie Station is in the middle of the namesake new part of Malmö, developed from scratch over the southern end of City Tunnel. This part of Malmö is quite removed from the city centre, but includes many important destinations, such as the Malmö Arena, the Malmömässan fairgrounds and the Emporia shopping centre, all right next to the train station. All Swedish-bound trains from Denmark will stop here as border police need to conduct passport checks (no such checks happen on the opposite direction). }} The above three stations are served by regional trains to and from Copenhagen, direct trains from [[Stockholm]] and [[Gothenburg]], as well as regional trains. Other train stations in Malmö include Persborg, Svågertorp, Oxie, and Burlöv, which are only served by a limited number of regional trains and are of little interest to tourists, as they are in residential locations far from major points of interest. The central station also includes a small supermarket, food stalls, coffees, ATMs as well as lockers, toilets and showers. ===By car=== [[File:Cph oresund.jpg|thumb|The Öresund Bridge, connecting Sweden with the rest of Europe. This 8-km-long bridge was inaugurated in the year 2000, built for car and rail traffic.]] Another way of crossing the [http://www.oeresundsbron.com Øresund Bridge]{{Dead link|date=March 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (both bridge and tunnel) is to drive for yourself. It is a toll bridge, with tolls charged in both directions (entering and leaving Sweden). Since the road is a motorway (one-way passage only), it is not possible to change direction after passing the last exit in Denmark. The prices for an ordinary car shorter than 6 m [http://uk.oresundsbron.com/page/948 begin at €48 per single trip]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. With a ''BroPas'' subscription it is possible to reduce the cost substantially. ''[http://easygo.com/en easyGo]'' customers qualifies for a 5% discount on cash payments. [https://www.oresundsbron.com/en/customerservice/6888 Credit cards are also accepted]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. The view is much less obstructed if you choose to go by car as compared to train. Keep in mind, though, that the road over the Øresund Bridge is a motorway, hence it is prohibited to stop for other reasons than if your car should break down. There is no public access to Peberholm Island, where the tunnel and the bridge connect. ===By bus=== ''[http://www.flixbus.se FlixBus]'' has routes from [[Copenhagen]], [[Oslo]], [[Stockholm]] and other places. From Copenhagen the buses take longer (over an hour) and are much less frequent, but prices start at 100 SEK (as of 2024), the price increases as tickets are sold and may be higher than the train. ''[http://autoprevoz.org Autoprevoz]'', {{phone|+387 51 317 333}}, has buses from [[Banja Luka]], [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]], 25 hr, twice weekly, ~ €150. Whereas ''[http://www.toptourist.se Toptourist]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'', {{phone|+45 48 25 38 37}}, offers connection from [[Sarajevo]] via [[Salzburg]], twice weekly, €140 return, tickets can be paid on the bus, but advance booking and payment is recommended. ===By boat=== ''[http://www.finnlines.com Finnlines]'' runs a ferry line between [[Travemünde]] in northern [[Germany]] and Malmö. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for pedestrians. Departures that do not need a compulsory cabin booking are [https://www.finnlines.com/ferry-trips/routes/travemunde-malmo-timetable Tu–F at 10:00, Sa at 11:00 from Travemünde]. The trip takes nine hours, the fares for a one-way trip for an adult begin at €30. The fare for a car shorter than {{m|6}} begins at €49 in the low season, €67 in the high season. Motorcycles can be taken on board for free during the low season, bicycles can be taken on board for free all year round. A booked return trip will grant a 20% discount on the return part of the trip. {{go | name=Finnlines ferry terminal | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lappögatan 1A | lat=55.6276 | long=12.9913 | directions=in the northern part of Malmö Harbour, 10 km (6 mi) from the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-11-26 | content=There is a bus from the ferry terminal to Malmö Centralstation. Tickets can be purchased on the bus with a contactless (NFC) card. }} As an alternative, [[Trelleborg]] and [[Ystad]] offer ferry connections from other ports in [[Germany]] and [[Poland]]. The travel time of these ferries are usually between five and ten hours, and Malmö Central Station can be reached from Trelleborg by regional bus #146 in about 50 min, or by Pågatåg {{nowrap|train line 9}} in 32 minutes. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|55.601|13|zoom=14|width=440|height=500}} ===Bicycle=== Malmö is best experienced by bicycle, the city is interlaced with lots of bicycle roads. Malmö is known as a very bike-friendly city (and indeed, biking is the preferred method of transportation here). '''[https://malmo.se/download/18.1d78cdc3167bce2fb3624fb/1546002267631/MALMO_cykelkarta_180515_WEB_malmo.se.pdf The official bike map]''' can be found on bike rentals and the tourist office. The cheapest bike rental is [https://www.malmobybike.se/ Malmö by Bike] at 200SEK / year for unlimited use, and bikes are picked up at any time by typing a code into an unmanned station (see [https://www.malmobybike.se/karta the map of stations]). There are guided bike tours in Malmö during the summer. ===Public transport=== '''[http://www.skanetrafiken.se Skånetrafiken]''' is responsible for public transport in Malmö and all of Scania. The green buses (''stadsbuss'') all have routes within Malmö city, and the yellow buses are regional buses to other cities in Scania. VISA, VISA Electron, MasterCard and Maestro payment cards can be used as payment for tickets in both yellow and green buses. It is not possible to use cash as payment in buses and trains. Tickets or cards can also be purchased in advance, either in vending machines, at Skånetrafiken customer centres (''kundcenter''), at service partners (''serviceombud'' or ''ombud'') or via a smartphone app. The smartphone app also supports an English language version. The old JoJo-card system has been replaced by a "Reskort" which can only be purchased at Skånetrafiken customer centres and service partners, and can not be topped up with a cash balance, only loaded with tickets at a customer centre, service partner, or ticket machine. Generally speaking, prices with Reskort and the app are the same, so Reskort can only be recommended for those unable to use the app. Both the physical ticket (from vending machines) and the electronic ticket (Reskort and smartphone app) is valid for one hour as single fare (''enkelbiljett''), which begins immediately when the ticket is printed, scanned or activated. Transfer between rides is unlimited within this one hour. Public transport fares in Malmö also include train rides between the three stations: Malmö Central, Triangeln and Hyllie Station. The violet-coloured Pågatågen and the silver-coloured Øresundstågen normally stop at all three stations. Additional train stations can be included if specified when purchasing a ticket. Note that if you have arrived from Denmark, within Malmö a Danish Rejsekort can ''only'' be used for travel between Malmö Central, Triangeln and Hyllie Station. Journeys between these stations cost 19 DKK for one hour of unlimited travel, but you must have a sufficient balance to cover all expected travel (as well as the required prepayment – 25 DKK for registered Rejsekort or 70 DKK for anonymous Rejsekort) before arriving as there are no Rejsekort top-up machines in Malmö. As in Denmark, you must check in and out at the Rejsekort check-in/out machines located at the entrances to each station. ===Taxi=== Taxi is also an option, fixed rates begin at 49/59/79 kr for trips within Malmö city. The taxi market is unregulated, and some independent drivers charge high prices. Check the price tag in the window, prefer well known companies such as ''171717'', ''232323'', ''Taxi Skåne'', ''Taxi Kurir'' etc, and always ask for the price of your trip before getting in. * {{listing | name=Cabonline | alt= | url=https://www.cabonline.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-21 | content=Offers TaxiKurir, Taxi 020, Sverigetaxi and TOPCAB taxis. Fixed price on all trips. }} * {{listing | name=Uber Malmö | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/malmo/| email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-07-09 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Bolt Malmö | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu/en/cities/malmo/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-17 | content= }} ==See== === Main squares and streets === The historic central parts of Malmö is called '''Gamla Staden''' ("Old Town"), and this area has three squares; ''Gustav Adolfs torg'' ('''Gustav Adolf's Square'''), ''Stortorget'' (Great Square) and ''Lilla torg'' (Little Square). Stortorget and Lilla Torg are directly connected at one corner, and a pedestrian-only shopping street connects them with Gustav Adolfs torg. [[File:Stortorget in Malmö, Sweden.jpg|thumb|Stortorget (The Great Square)]] [[File:Isak Slaktaregatan.jpg|thumb|Typical street in the historic centre (Isak Slaktaregatan)]] *{{see | name=Davidshallstorg | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.59908 | long=12.99839 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | content=A square with design shops, clothes stores and restaurants. The atmosphere here is posh, so the vibe is very different from Möllevångstorget's. There are similar shops on the nearby parts of Davidshallsgatan. }} *{{see | name=Gamla Väster | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.604947 | long=12.995273 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q10502446 | content=Between Lilla Torget and Malmöhus. It is a quiet and sophisticated neighbourhood with lots of galleries, design shops and restaurants. }} *{{see | name=Gustav Adolfs torg | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.60273 | long=13.00054 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q10511131 | content=Surrounded on three sides by buildings containing shops and a McDonald's. At the centre of the square is a bus platform. A cemetery lies at the south side of the square, through which one can reach Slottsparken, a beautiful park that surrounds Malmöhus. }} *{{see | name=Lilla torg | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.60511 | long=12.9988 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q10561806 | content=The place for socializing and dining, with various restaurants having outdoor tables around the edge of the square. }} *{{see | name=Möllevångstorget | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.59162 | long=13.00809 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q10593522 | lastedit=2023-06-05 | content=South of the city centre, has a bustling open-air market on weekends. The surrounding neighbourhood is full of inexpensive Asian and Middle Eastern shops, restaurants and grocery stores catering to the alternative side of the city, the immigrant population and people who are tired of mainstream commerce. The place to go to for inexpensive to moderate prices of beer. }} *{{see | name=Stortorget | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.60615 | long=13.00015 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q8711309 | lastedit=2023-06-05 | content=The central plaza of Malmö. At the centre of Stortorget ("The Great Square") is a '''statue of King Karl X Gustav''' of Sweden, who took the city from Danish dominion. The ornate '''Malmö City Hall''' (built in 1546) is on the east side, and in the north-west corner is '''Kockska Huset''', the house of Jörgen Kock, a German immigrant who became mayor of the city and achieved wealth simply and directly: by taking control of the city mint. In the winter, the square used to be used as a skating rink, but this has rarely happened in the early 2020s. }} === Historic buildings and modern architecture === [[File:Malmo-city hall.jpg|thumb|Malmö City Hall from 1547]] [[File:Malmöhus slott 2.jpg|thumb|Malmöhus Castle from the 1530s]] *{{see | name=Katrinetorp | alt= | url= | email= | address=Katrinetorps Alle 1 | lat=55.5508 | long=13.0036 | directions=intersection of E20 and E6 | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Katrinetorp, Malmö.jpg | wikidata=Q10544416 | content=Country manor with beautiful garden. Nice cafe and antique store. }} *{{see | name=Malmöhus Castle | alt=Malmö Castle | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.60482 | long=12.98743 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1810918| wikipedia=Malmö Castle | content= }} *{{see | name=S:t Johannes kyrka | alt= | url=http://www.sanktjohannes.se/ | email= | address= | lat=55.5942 | long=13.0017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St. John's Church, Malmö | image=Sankt Johannes kyrka, Malmö 3.jpg | wikidata=Q889502 | content= }} *{{see | name=S:t Petri kyrka | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.6069 | long=13.0036 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sankt Petri Church, Malmö | image=St Petri church in Malmö.jpg | wikidata=Q2756744 | content=The city's oldest church (from the 14th century). }} *{{see | name=Turning Torso | alt= | url=https://visitskane.com/classic-attractions/turning-torso | email= | address= | lat=55.613333 | long=12.976389 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Turning Torso | image=Turning Torso 3.jpg | wikidata=Q206435 | content=Completed in 2005, it is at 190 m the tallest building in Scandinavia. Mostly apartments with some offices, it's in a new zone near the waterfront and has no observation tower or other sightseeing facilities, so it's probably best to admire it from afar (visible from almost anywhere in the city). If you are visiting in the summer there is a nice waterfront promenade and an open-sea bath nearby the Turning Torso. There is also a state of the art skateboarding park in the area. }} === Museums and cultural institutions === [[File:Malmö Live, augusti 2015-1.jpg|thumb|Malmö Live, a new multi-purpose complex, including a concert hall]] *{{see | name=Form/Design Center | url=http://www.formdesigncenter.com | email= | address=Lilla Torg 9 | lat=55.604500 | long=12.999204 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free | content= }} *{{see | name=Malmö Konsthall | alt=Malmö Art Hall | url=https://malmokonsthall.se/en/ | email= | address=S:t Johannesgatan 7 | lat=55.59542 | long=12.99919 | directions=in the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q633078 | content=Large art exhibition. Malmö Konsthall has specialised in contemporary art since it opened in 1975. }} * {{see | name=Malmö Live | alt= | url=http://www.malmolive.se | email= | address=Dag Hammarskjölds Torg 4 | lat=55.6075 | long=12.993611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-09-01 | content=A concert hall opened in August 2015. }} *{{see | name=Museum of Modern Art | alt=Moderna Museet | url=https://www.modernamuseet.se/malmo/en/ | email= | address=Ola Billgrens plats 2–4 | lat=55.604678 | long=13.009422 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu–Su 11:00–18:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=Moderna Museet Malmö | image=Moderna malmo 1.JPG | wikidata=Q1718267 | lastedit=2019-06-23 | content=One of the major Swedish art museums. }} *{{see | name=Malmö Stadsbibliotek | alt=Malmö's public library | url=http://www.malmo.se/bibliotek | email= | address=Kung Oscars väg | lat=55.60047 | long=12.99438 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Browsing the shelves and admiring the building itself is a must for all architecture buffs and intellectuals. }} *{{see | name=Teknikens och sjöfartens hus | alt=Technology and Maritime Museum | url=https://malmo.se/Uppleva-och-gora/Konst-och-museer/Malmo-Museer/Besok-Malmo-Museer/Vara-byggnader/Teknikens-och-sjofartens-hus.html | email= | address=Malmöhusvägen 7A | lat=55.60494 | long=12.98262 | directions= | phone=+46 40 34 44 38 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Adults 40 kr | content=Located west of the castle. The largest section of the museum is devoted to transport, in particular aviation, and there are lots of cut-away models, including the entire front end and cockpit of a Vickers Viscount. Visitors can walk (crawl, actually in places) through a 1943 Swedish U3 submarine. The displays are only labelled in Swedish, but is well worth a visit, nonetheless. }} ==Do== Malmö has a scene of independent arts, including [[stand-up comedy]], hip hop and street art. ===Guided tours and sightseeing=== * Bike tour with a guide at '''[http://www.Malmobiketours.se Malmö Bike Tours]'''. About 2 hour tour with some 7 stops. Runs one or several days a week during summer. * Open boat sightseeing '''[http://www.stromma.se/malmo/ Rundan]'''. About 40–50 people per boat. 50 min. Runs several times per day from spring to fall. * {{do | name=Malmö Museum Tram | alt=Museispårvägen Malmö | url=http://www.mss.se | email= | address=Banérskajen | lat= | long= | directions=City bus 7 or 8 to the stop at Tekniska Museet (Technical Museum) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:00-16:24 every Sa and Su between May 28 and October 2 (except for June 25) | price=Adults 20 kr, children (6–16 years) 10 kr, small children (less than 6 years) free | lastedit=2016-03-11 | content= }} === Parks === [[File:Kungsparken, Malmö, augusti 2013.jpg|thumb|Kungsparken]] [[File:Tallriken.jpg|thumb|Pildammsparken]] [[File:Pariserhjul, Folkets Park, Malmö.jpg|thumb|Folkets Park, Ferris wheel]] * {{do | name=Pildammsparken | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.5901 | long=12.9929 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Central park with woodlands, a lake, gardens, sculptures, and playgrounds. The park was part of the Baltic exhibition in 1914, and several of the buildings from this exhibition is still around, including an outdoor theatre. In the south, Pildammsparken connects to Stadionparken and The Stadium Area, filled with sports facilities. }} * {{do | name=Kungsparken | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-10-17 | content=Historic central park, connecting to the smaller Slottsträdgården park and Malmöhus Castle to the north. The park was constructed around 1870, on former castle grounds. It is named after the Swedish King Oscar II who inaugurated a park restaurant here in 1881. Kungsparken was designed by the Danish landscape architect Ove Høegh Hansen, inspired by the English garden culture. }} *{{do | name=Slottsträdgården | alt=Castle Garden | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.6037 | long=12.9880 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Located north of Kungsparken and south of Malmöhus Castle. This is one of the city's newest amenities and is an organic community garden, open throughout the year. There are eight themed gardens and a potager. Freshly picked flowers and vegetables are available for purchase in the summer months. There is also a small cafe, run entirely by volunteers. }} *{{do | name=Folkets park | alt=People's Park | url=http://www.malmo.se/folketspark | email= | address= | lat=55.5934 | long=13.0139 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free entrance | content=Park and entertainment venue in the central parts of Malmö. See the terrarium. Ride a pony. Sunbathe. Eat and drink. }} *{{do | name=Bulltoftaparken | alt= | url=https://malmo.se/Uppleva-och-gora/Parker-och-gronomraden/Parker-A-O/Bulltoftaparken.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Relatively large park in the eastern outskirts of Malmö. Bulltoftsparken is from the late 1970s, built on a former airfield, and includes a park zone, a sports zone, and a nature zone. The sports zone offers playing fields, tennis courts, a fitness centre, a mini golf facility, and a disc golf field. }} * {{do | name=Ribersborgsstranden | alt= | url=https://malmo.se/Uppleva-och-gora/Bada-och-simma/Strander-och-badplatser/Ribersborgsstranden.html | email= | address= | lat=55.60372 | long=12.96673 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=There are several options for outdoor swimming in Malmö. This includes beachparks and seabath facilities with small piers. The largest and most popular venue is Ribersborgstranden beachpark, right in the central parts. Swim, sunbathe or promenade at the 2-km sandy beach in Ribersborgstranden. The beach is child-friendly with sandy stretches, just a short walk from the inner city. In the winter you can enjoy ice swimming. Be sure to visit the Ribersborgs Kallbadshus, an old seabath structure from 1902. }} === Sports === '''[https://malmo.se/Uppleva-och-gora/Gora/Idrott--traning/Stadionomradet.html The Stadium Area]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (''Stadionområdet'') is a landmark area in Malmö in the central parts of the city next to Pildammsparken. With a total of four stadiums, a stadium park, including a Walk of Fame and other sports facilities, this is a must see for sport fanatics. * {{do | name=Malmö stadion | alt=Eleda Stadion | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-04-06 | content=This is the home ground of '''[https://www.mff.se/ Malmö FF]''', who play soccer in Allsvenskan, Sweden's top league tier. They usually do well and qualify for European tournaments. With a capacity of 22,500, the stadium is also used for athletics and occasional concerts. }} * {{do | name=Baltiska Hallen | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-10-16 | content=Covered stadium hosting large sports and cultural events, and occasional concerts with room for about 4,000 people. }} * {{do | name=Baltiska Bowlinghallen | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-10-16 | content=A bowling hall with room for up to 450 guests. }} * {{do | name=Swedbank Stadion | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-10-16 | content=Another half-covered stadium. Mostly soccer matches. }} * {{do | name=Malmö isstadion | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-10-16 | content=Indoor ice rink with room for up to 6,000 people. }} The flat landscape of Skåne is ideal for golf. Around Malmö there are quite a few good courses. * {{do | name=Malmö Burlöv Golfklubb | alt= | url=http://www.malmoburlovgk.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-10-16 | content=Large golf course with 27 holes, just outside the central city. There is a restaurant on site. }} * {{do | name=Malmö Golfhall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Fosievägen 4 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-10-17 | content=Indoor golf arena in the southern parts of town. }} Malmö has [http://skatemalmo.se/parks/ six skateboarding venues]. The first dedicated venue Bryggeriet Malmö Skatepark was built in 1998 as an indoor venue, and it is still the largest skatepark in the city. The other five parks are outdoor spots in concrete, all of world-class quality. The last addition to the Malmö skateboarding scene came in 2016, when Kroksbäck Skatepark was inaugurated. [[File:Stapelbäddsparken 2019.jpg|thumb|Stapelbäddsparken. Malmö has a total of six skateparks.]] * {{do | name=Bryggeriet Malmö Skatepark | alt= | url=http://skatemalmo.se/parks/bryggeriet-malmo-skatepark/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=September - May | price= | lastedit=2019-10-17 | content=The largest and first skatepark in Malmö, opened in 1998. This park is an indoor venue with wooden bowls and ramps, but also facilities for street skating. }} * {{do | name=Stapelbäddsparken | alt= | url=http://skatemalmo.se/parks/stapelbaddsparken/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-10-17 | content=Skatepark in the harbour district of Västra Hamnen, north of the inner city. }} Swim in the sea or in one of Malmö's bathhouses. There is also a total of three [https://malmo.se/Uppleva-och-gora/Bada-och-simma/Utomhusbassanger.html outdoor pools] around town, open for the public in the summer months of June through August. Four city parks offer [https://malmo.se/Uppleva-och-gora/For-familjer-barn-och-unga/Plaskdammar.html paddling pools] for the public, and they can be great fun if you are with small kids. The water quality is regularly surveyed. * {{do | name=Sibbarbs Saltsjöbad | alt= | url=http://www.sibbarpssaltsjobad.se/ | email= | address=Strandgatan 85 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 40 15 17 78 | tollfree= | hours= | price=65 kr | lastedit=2019-10-19 | content=Seabath in the southern parts of town. Take a dip in the sea and soak some sun in the summer. There is an on-site café. Open year round. }} * {{do | name=Hylliebadet | alt= | url=https://malmo.se/Uppleva-och-gora/Bada-och-simma/Hylliebadet.html | email= | address=Hyllievångsvägen 20 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 40 34 26 50 | tollfree= | hours=Year round | price=85 kr. With access to the wellness area: 125 kr | lastedit=2019-10-19 | content=Public bathhouse with a focus on wellness and relaxation in the southern parts of town, next to the Kroksbäck Park. The exclusive wellness area is for adults only. Sometimes special evening events. Hylliebadet includes a bathshop with various accessories and an on-site café. It is important that you wash yourself with soap before entering the pools! }} * {{do | name=Four Gardens Spa | alt= | url=https://www.fourgardens.se/ | email= | address=Kalkstensvägen 13 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-10-19 | content=Large luxurious wellness centre in Limhamn in south Malmö. Professional wellness treatments and programs. The center includes lifestyle accommodation, an outdoor pool, restaurant, cinema, fitness machines, pools and saunas. Book a stay on-line. }} * {{do | name=Vattenlekplatsen | alt= | url=https://malmo.se/Uppleva-och-gora/For-familjer-barn-och-unga/Temalekplatser/Vatten.html | email= | address=Adlerfelts Väg | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=June through August | price=Free | lastedit=2019-10-19 | content=Water-themed playground for kids. }} In the winter, outdoor ice skating is a popular pastime. Skating rinks can be found at Stortorget, and when the lake in Pildammsparken freezes over, it is also a popular venue. * {{do | name=Jägersro Hippodrome | alt= | url=https://www.jagersro.se | email=sekretariatet@jagersro.travsport.se | address=Jägersrovägen | lat=55.57338 | long=13.06412 | directions= | phone=+46 40 671 82 00 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-30 | content=Sweden's oldest horse race track with both flat racing (gallop) and harness racing. There are races all year, all weather, mostly around weekends and public holidays. }} === Music, theatre and film === [[File:Malmö stadsteater 2.jpg|thumb|Malmö Opera]] * {{do | name=Victoriateatern | alt= | url=http://www.victoria.se/en/ | email= | address=Södra Förstadsgatan 18 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 40 97 66 02 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-10-16 | content=This fine art nouveau building was erected in 1912 as a movie theatre, but is now used for theatre and occasional concerts and operas. }} * {{do | name=Malmö Opera | alt= | url=https://www.malmoopera.se/in-english | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-10-17 | content=Opera house from 1944, clad in grey marble. Nowadays the cultural palette has broadened, and includes concerts, musicals and dance performances. Enjoy the architecture and specially designed interior, it is considered an icon for the Nordic Funkis style. Dine and drink in the associated opera restaurant. }} * {{do | name=Malmö Stadsteater | alt= | url=https://www.malmostadsteater.se/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-10-19 | content=Malmö City Theatre. }} === Events === * '''[https://malmopride.com/ Malmö Pride]''' is organised by the [http://www.rfsl.se/malmo/ city's LGBT community]. July, tbc. * '''[https://www.malmofestivalen.se/ Malmöfestivalen]''' is a free 8-day festival, with lots of cultural and culinary experiences. Aug, tbc. ==Buy== [[File:Malmo Sodra Forstadsgatan Eurovision Song Contest 20130514.jpg|thumb|Highstreet shopping in Södra Förstadsgatan]] === Street shopping === The main shopping streets are '''Södergatan''' and '''Södra Förstadsgatan''', where you can find all kinds of shops. Look out for '''Village''', well designed homeware, at reasonable prices. Experience the multicultural area around '''Möllevångstorget'''. Here you can find exotic shops selling Asian and Middle Eastern foods and a wide selection of pubs and bars. In the mornings there is also an open market where you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables. === Shopping centres === Malmö has four shopping plazas in the centre, offering the usual mixture of town shopping with clothes, cameras, jewelry, electronics, books, movies etc. blended with eateries, both international fast food chains and local ones, as well as world famous Swedish glassware: * {{buy | name=Caroli | alt= | url=https://caroli.se/ | email= | address=Östergatan 12 | lat=55.6065 | long=13.0073 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Entré | alt= | url=http://www.entremalmo.se/ | email= | address=Fredsgatan 14 | lat=55.6076 | long=13.0247 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Hansa | alt= | url=https://hansamalmo.se/ | email= | address=Stora Nygatan | lat=55.6032 | long=13.0041 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Triangeln | alt= | url=http://www.triangeln.com | email= | address=Södra Förstadsgatan 41 | lat=55.5954 | long=13.0019 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} There are also some shopping plazas outside the city centre, like: * {{buy | name=Emporia | url=http://www.emporia.se/ | email= | address=Hyllie Boulevard 19 | lat=55.5641 | long=12.9734 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10:00-20:00, except for ''Midsommar'', Christmas Day and New Year's Day | price= | content=A huge, very modern shopping centre with over 200 shops plus restaurants, in a quite unusually pleasing setting. The centre is right across the entrance to the Hyllie train station and even features a roof terrace with some nice views in good weather. }} * {{buy | name=Jägersro Center | alt= | url=http://www.jagersrocenter.se/ | email= | address=Jägersrovägen 151 | lat=55.5698 | long=13.0587 | directions=next to the Jägersro Hippodrome | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This shopping centre is the very oldest of its kind in Sweden. Lots of parking lots and good bus connections. }} * {{buy | name=Mobilia | alt= | url=https://www.mobilia.se/ | email= | address=Per Albin Hanssons väg 40 | lat=55.5804 | long=13.0036 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Eat== ===Budget=== ====City centre==== *{{eat | name=Vegegården | alt= | url=http://www.vegegarden.com | email= | address=Rörsjögatan 23 | lat=55.603961 | long=13.008295 | directions= | phone=+46 40 611 38 88 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=Lovely Asian vegetarian restaurant. À la carte and buffet-style. Serves lunch on weekdays and barbecue on weekends. From 68 kr; eat as much as you like. }} * {{eat | name=Korvhuset | alt= | url= | email= | address=Västra Kanalgatan 1 | lat=55.6008532 | long=13.0024132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=Super delicious bratwurst and mashed potatoes. Very nice service. }} * {{eat | name=Malmö City Pizzeria | alt= | url= | email= | address=Västra Kanalgatan 1 | lat=55.6007092 | long=13.0021819 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=Classic Swedish pizzeria. Amazing delicious pizza. Good value. Friendly service. }} * {{eat | name=Nguyen's Sandwiches | alt= | url= | email= | address=Engelbrektsgatan 19 | lat=55.603167 | long=12.998585 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=Good place to get a spicy Vietnamese sandwich or a bowl of pho, the signature soup of Vietnamese cuisine. Authentic. }} ====Around Triangeln==== * {{eat | name=Davidshall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Davidshallsgatan 23 | lat=55.5977582 | long=13.0000525 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=Really good pizzas. Fantastic value for money, professional and efficient service, and delicious food. }} * {{eat | name=Jalla Jalla | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/JallaJalla2003/ | email= | address=Bergsgatan 16 | lat=55.594854 | long=13.008827 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=Well-known and popular falafel place. A normal falafel wrap costs 30 kr (Aug 2017). }} * {{eat | name= Burritofriends | alt= | url= | email= | address=Fersens väg 14B | lat=55.5983170 | long=12.9963045 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=Supremely delicious, vegan-friendly, and highly customizable. The menu is just great, the ingredients are fresh. The service is friendly. }} * {{eat | name=Tamnack Thai | alt= | url= | email= | address=Spångatan 4 | lat=55.5961000 | long=13.0033741 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=The presentation is simple, the restaurant is a cute hole in the wall. Great service. }} ====Around Möllevångstorget==== Many kitchen venues here cater to the budget option. Get a falafel (30-45 kr), Indian, Thai, Middle Eastern or Chinese meal from 60 kr. Plenty to choose from. * {{eat | name=The Vegan Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Södra Skolgatan 45 | lat= 55.5920890 | long=13.0065502 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=Nice location, nice food, nice people. They have a wide variety of vegan food. Very good vegan burgers. Food comes fast and quantities are great. }} * {{eat | name=Krua Thai | alt= | url= | email= | address=Möllevångstorget 12 | lat=55.591279 | long=13.008839 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=A great, inexpensive Thai place. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurang Asien | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Asien-Restaurang-Malm%C3%B6-Sweden/100063492255783/ | email= | address=Ystadsgatan 17 | lat=55.59072 | long=13.010659 | directions= | phone=+46 40-92 94 37 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=An unpretentious looking restaurant that serves delicious Vietnamese food. You'll find it a short walk from Möllevångstorget, down Ystadsgatan. On the menu you will find food like Pho or Vietnamese springrolls. Tasty and reasonably priced. }} * {{eat | name=Ganesha | alt= | url=https://ganeshatakeaway.se/ | email= | address=Södra Förstadsgatan 82 | lat=55.59275 | long=13.00559 | directions= | phone=+46 40 300 748 | tollfree= | hours=M–F 11:30–20:00, Sa 12:00–20:00 | price=From 90 kr (mains) | lastedit=2024-06-09 | content=Affordable, decent Indian food served in a canteen-style setting. A menu consists of 2 – 3 choices of vegetables or meat, along with sauce and rice; extras can be added. }} ====South Malmö==== * {{eat | name=Özen Allfrukt | alt= | url=http://www.ozenallfrukt.se/ | email= | address=Lantmannagatan 59 | lat=55.580888 | long=13.019084 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=40 to 60 kr per serving |lastedit=2025-07-07| content=Balkan-style cuisine offering fast food dishes such as Burek, Ćevapčići and Pljeskavica. The Pljeskavica will satiate you for the rest of the day. It's also a grocery store with low prices. }} *{{eat | name=Aras | url= | email= | address=Lönngatan 24 | lat=55.585854 | long=13.014887 | directions= | phone=+46 40 832 73 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Around 60–100 kr | lastedit= | content=Persian restaurant that serves authentic and succulent Persian kebabs on fluffy steamed basmati rice with butter, grilled tomato and raw onion on the side. Don't miss the salade Olivier, Russian salad-Persian style. }} ===Mid-range=== There are a lot of restaurants in the '''Little Square''' with outdoor seating (with heating year-round). * {{eat | name=Elysée | alt=Malmborgen | url=http://www.malmborgen.nu/ | email= | address=Malmborgsgatan 7 | lat=55.602717 | long=13.003359 | directions= | phone=+46 40 12 91 20 | tollfree= | hours=M–Th 17:00–22:30, F 17:00–23:30, Sa 16:00–23:30, Su 15:00–22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=The main attraction is the all-you-can-eat bouillon fondue (259 kr per person, min. two persons). Choose between beef, pork or chicken with either potatoes or rice on the side. The salad bar is included to the price, but you may also just order the salad bar for 135 kr, all-you-can-eat (all prices as of May 2023). You may also order the reindeer filet. }} * {{eat | name=Mello Yello | url=http://www.melloyello.se/ | email= | address=Lilla torg 1 | lat=55.605490 | long=12.998925 | directions= | phone=+46 40 30 45 25 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A delicious mix of Swedish and European food. The best view and service is in the one located close to the Turning Torso and the beach (150 kr each). }} * {{eat | name=Ses På Paddy's | url=http://www.paddys.se/ | email= | address=Kalendergatan | lat=55.605740 | long=13.002641 | directions= | phone=+46 40 786 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=Excellent Swedish food, don't let the idea of eating in an Irish bar put you off! Booking is essential in this busy restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Steak House | url=http://www.steakhouse.se/ | email= | address=Lilla torg 7 | lat=55.604958 | long=12.998469 | directions= | phone=+46 40 97 34 97 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=Very nice food for a reasonable price by Scandinavian standards. }} There are also lots of mid-range restaurants in other parts of town. *{{eat | name=Atmosfär | url=http://www.atmosfar.com/ | email= | address=Fersens väg 4 | lat=55.599779 | long=12.996190 | directions= | phone=+46 40 12 50 77 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=A splurge restaurant gone mid-range without compromising the food or service. }} * {{eat | name=Di Penco | alt= | url=http://www.penco.se/ | email= | address=Roskildevägen 3 | lat=55.595426 | long=12.994108 | directions= | phone=+46 40 39 66 55 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=An Italian lunch restaurant a short walk from "Triangeln". They serve delicious home made pasta with freshly baked ciabatta bread for only 65 kr. }} *{{eat | name=Lemongrass | alt= | url=http://www.lemongrass.se/ | email= | address=Grynbodgatan 9 | lat=55.60368 | long=12.99639 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A sophisticated place serving Asian crossover food to a well-to-do crowd. Mains 134–208 kr. }} *{{eat | name=Maguro Sushibar | alt= | url=http://www.maguro.se/ | email= | address=Östra Förstadsgatan 15 | lat=55.607474 | long=13.016398 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=Great sushi place. }} *{{eat | name=Metro | alt= | url=http://www.metropamollan.se/ | email= | address=Ängelholmsgatan 14 | lat=55.591963 | long=13.008878 | directions= | phone=+46 40 23 00 63 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=Another restaurant and bar for the local hipsters. They also have club nights. Mains 115–230 kr. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Möllan | url= | email= | address=Bergsgatan 37c | lat=55.592739 | long=13.007124 | directions= | phone=+46 40 12 10 15 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=Tasty and juicy steaks plus some seasonal dishes can be found at this laid-back and cozy place. }} *{{eat | name=Två Krögare - Bullen | alt= | url=http://www.bullen.nu/ | email= | address=Storgatan 35 | lat=55.599984 | long=13.001457 | directions= | phone=+46 40 12 12 41 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=One of few restaurants that still serve traditional Swedish food (husmanskost). }} *{{eat | name=Yukai | url= | email= | address=Bergsgatan 35 | lat=55.593196 | long=13.007556 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A calm place with great atmosphere, great sushi and great service. Probably the best Japanese restaurant in town. Mains 64-175 kr. }} *'''[https://www.restaurangtryck.se Restaurang Tryck]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' Krusegatan 19. Great daily lunch M–F 95 kr. * {{eat | name=Malmö Saluhall | alt= | url=https://www.malmosaluhall.se/en/ | email= | address=Gibraltargatan 6 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Lively food hall with various restaurants and shops. }} ===Splurge=== *{{eat | name=Bloom | alt= | url=http://www.restaurangbloom.se/ | email= | address=Pildammsvägen 2 | lat=55.5906 | long=12.9972 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Five-course menu 695 kr | lastedit= | content= }} ===Sweet=== * {{eat | name=Dolce Sicilia | alt= | url=http://dolcesicilia.se | email= | address=Drottningtorget 6 | lat=55.6082 | long=13.0108 | directions= | phone=+46 40 611 31 10 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Heavenly homemade ice cream. They also serve pasta. }} * {{eat | name=Hollandia | alt= | url=https://hollandia.se | email=info@hollandia.se | address=Södra Förstadsgatan 8 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 40 12 48 86 | tollfree= | hours=M–F 08:00–19:00, Sa Su 09:00–19:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-05-20 | content=Oldest existing patisserie ('konditori' in Swedish) in Malmö. Top quality pastry and hot beverages at up-scale price level. }} * {{eat | name=Konditori Katarina | alt= | url=https://konditorikatarina.se | email=info@konditorikatarina.se | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 40 93 14 59 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-20 | content=Patisserie with six outlets in Malmö. Good quality pastry and warm beverages at mid-scale price level. }} Around Christmas time, look out for 'pepparkakor' (literally pepper-cakes), spicy crispy cookies flavoured with cinnamon, ginger, molasses and cloves. Traditional accompaniment to 'glögg' (mulled wine). ==Drink== Most people drink at home prior to going out, as alcohol at licensed premises is expensive. Finding a Systembolaget is the best way of getting what you need, open usually M–F 10:00–19:00, Sa Su 11:00–15:00. Malmö has a vibrant night life, but prices are for the most part substantially higher than they are across the bridge in [[Copenhagen]]. '''Lilla Torg''' is the epicentre but prices are high, you could also try '''Möllevångstorget''' where any of the many bars, cafés and restaurants in this bustling part of town is good value. Like in Copenhagen, and indeed most of Scandinavia, expect most of the drinking to be limited to Friday and Saturday except at the height of summer where many Swedes have vacation. You can pick up the free ''Nöjesguiden'' and ''Dygnet Runt'' magazines in various stores to read more about Malmö's nightlife. They are only available in Swedish though. *{{drink | name=Étage | alt= | url=http://www.etage.se | email= | address=Stortorget 6 | lat=55.60592 | long=13.00145 | directions= | phone=+46 40 23 20 60 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M Th 23:00–04:00; F Sa 23:00–05:00 | price=Entrance is usually free before midnight, afterwards it's 50–100 kr | content=Popular nightclub in the Big Square. }} *{{drink | name=Fagans | alt= | url=http://www.fagans.se | email= | address=Per Weijersgatan 4 | lat=55.60368 | long=13.00030 | directions= | phone=+46 40 970 990 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Generally 16:00–23:00, on weekends open as late as 02:00 | price= | content=Great Irish pub just off Gustav Adolf's Square. }} * {{drink | name=Izakaya Koi | url=http://www.koi.se | email= | address=Lilla torg 5 | lat=55.605236 | long=12.998250 | directions= | phone=+46 40 757 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Not quite like a Tokyo tavern, but it still manages to attract visiting Japanese businessmen. }} *{{drink | name=Slagthuset | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jörgen Kocksgatan 7A | lat=55.61134 | long=13.00275 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The city's biggest and best-known nightclub, housed in a former slaughterhouse (hence the name). The facility also includes a performance theatre and restaurants during the day. }} * {{drink | name=Babel | alt= | url=https://babelmalmo.se/ | email= | address=Spångatan 38 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-06-27 | content=Concerts and clubs. }} * {{drink | name=Inkonst | alt= | url=https://inkonst.com/en/ | email= | address=Bergsgatan 29 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-06-27 | content=Performing arts, music and talks. }} * {{drink | name=1998 Coffee Shop | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/1998-Coffee-Shop/100077260014559/ | email= | address=Davidshallsgatan 25B | lat=55.597238 | long=13.00028 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=F-Su 11:30-16:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-07-28 | content=Has good coffee. Also sells speciality coffee beans, t-shirts, jeans, and other items of clothing. Offers take-away and has a 1990s-inspired seating area. Friendly staff. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|less than 500 kr|around 700-900 kr|over 1000 kr}} While prices in Malmö may seem high, especially in the summer, and there is little variance in prices across properties, staying in the city may be your best option in the region, as hotels are generally expensive in Sweden (and even more so across the bridge in Copenhagen), while Malmö boasts a wide selection of properties unusual for other Swedish cities. As in the rest of Sweden, breakfast is generally included in room price, as is Wi-Fi. Do make sure to double-check the rates at different dates, as they may vary greatly depending on local events and time of year. The highest season is around the end of May and in June, when the days are the longest and the weather the best. ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Rut and Ragnars Hostel | alt= | url=http://www.rutochragnars.se/en | email=info@rutochragnars.se | address=Nobelvägen 113 | lat=55.59429 | long=13.02143 | directions= | phone=+46 40 611 60 60 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From 160 kr | content=A nice hostel with basic furniture. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Ängavallen | alt= | url=http://www.angavallen.se/index.php?lang=1 | email= | address=Norra Håslöv | lat=55.439761 | long=13.032070 | directions= | phone=+46 40 42 32 50 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=An ecological hotel 20 minutes south of Malmö on the road to [[Trelleborg]] with a cosy atmosphere. Small hotel with only 12 rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Astoria | alt= | url=http://astoriahotel.se/ | email= | address=Gråbrödersgatan 7 | lat=55.606109 | long=12.996586 | directions= | phone=+46 40 786 60 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Best Western Plus Hotel Noble House | url=https://www.hotelnoblehouse.se/ | email= | address=Per Weijersgatan 6 | lat=55.603614 | long=12.999765 | directions= | phone=+46 40 664 30 00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Best Western Hotel Royal | url=http://www.bwhotelroyal.se/ | email= | address=Norra Vallgatan 94 | lat=55.606548 | long=12.995230 | directions= | phone=+46 40 664 25 00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Comfort Hotel Malmö | alt= | url=https://www.nordicchoicehotels.se/hotell/sverige/malmo/comfort-hotel-malmo/ | email= | address=Carlsgatan 10C | lat=55.61087 | long=13.00051 | directions= | phone=+46 40 33 04 40 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From 590 kr, breakfast included | content=In a refurbished building north of the Centralstation, with an impressive gym in a historic room with gilded pilasters! Economy rooms are rather small (12 m²) and basic, while Standard rooms (17 m²) feature the tasteful modern decor prevalent across the hotel. }} [[File:Comfort Hotel Malmö.jpg|thumb|Comfort Hotel Malmö]] * {{sleep | name=Elite Plaza Hotel Malmö | url=https://www.elite.se/sv/hotell/malmo/plaza-hotel/ | email= | address=Gustav Adolfs torg 49 | lat=55.603265 | long=12.999372 | directions= | phone=+46 40 664 48 70 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Elite Hotel Residens | alt= | url= | email= | address=Adelgatan 7 | lat=55.60747 | long=13.00134 | directions= | phone=+46 40 664 48 90 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Elite Hotel Savoy | alt= | url= | email= | address=Norra Vallgatan 62 | lat=55.60766 | long=13.00023 | directions= | phone=+46 40 664 48 00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Central location opposite train station. Comfortable traditional hotel. Breakfast is a very relaxed affair. }} * {{sleep | name=First Hotel Jörgen Kock | alt= | url=http://www.firsthotels.se/Vara-Hotell/Hotell-i-Sverige/Malmo/First-Hotel-Jorgen-Kock/ | email= | address=Jörgen Kocksgatan 3 | lat=55.61137 | long=12.99949 | directions=250 m from Central Station | phone=+46 40 10 18 00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From 572 kr | content=Advertised as 'the hotel with the big rooms', and they are indeed unusually large by the standards of Scandinavian hotels. The decor is simple but comfortable, in a modern building within an easy walk of the central area. Includes breakfast (with tea and coffee remaining available later in the day) and fast wireless internet. Superior and deluxe rooms have tea/coffee maker. }} * {{sleep | name=Good Morning+ Malmö | alt= | url=https://ligula.se/goodmorninghotels/malmo/ | email= | address=Stadiongatan 21 | lat=55.58104 | long=12.99329 | directions= | phone=+46 40 672 85 70 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=The former Ibis was upgraded to Mercure, but the building was clearly designed to Ibis standards. It was built to serve as an accommodation base for the nearby sports and conference venues, and is thus quite removed from the centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Grand Hotel Garden | alt= | url=http://www.profilhotels.com/hotel-malmo-grand-hotel-garden/ | email= | address=Baltzarsgatan 20 | lat=55.604523 | long=13.003875 | directions= | phone=+46 40 665 60 00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Central location, with a unique rooftop garden. }} * {{sleep | name=Mayfair Hotel Tunneln - Sweden Hotels | alt= | url=http://www.mayfairtunneln.com/ | email= | address=Adelgatan 4 | lat=55.60723 | long=13.00151 | directions= | phone=+46 40 10 16 20 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Moment Hotels | alt= | url=http://www.momenthotels.com | email= | address=Adelgatan 54 | lat=55.607877 | long=13.001606 | directions= | phone=+46 40 23 50 40 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A boutique hotel close to Malmö Central station. }} * {{sleep | name=Park Inn by Radisson | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/park-inn-malmo | email=info.malmo@parkinn.com | address=Sjömansgatan 2 | lat=55.60984 | long=12.98033 | directions= | phone=+46 40 628 60 00 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=The only hotel in Västra Hamnen, in the midst of an office/industrial area. The immediate surroundings might not be the most touristy, but the hotel is reasonably close to Malmö Central Station. If you prefer to cycle there, the hotel has bikes for rent. }} * {{sleep | name=Scandic Segevång | alt= | url=http://www.scandichotels.com/Hotels/Sweden/Malmo/Scandic-Segevang/ | email= | address=Segesvängen | lat=55.61859 | long=13.06330 | directions= | phone=+46 40 693 45 00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=This is a suburban hotel situated amidst the meadows of Segevång. Slightly dated, but offers a large outside pool and a smaller one inside. It is also close to a golf course and markets itself as a sports/leisure hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Teaterhotellet | alt= | url=http://www.teaterhotellet.se/ | email= | address=Fersens väg 20 | lat=55.597245 | long=12.997111 | directions=across the street of the Opera building | phone=+46 40 665 58 00 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Centrally situated. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Scandic Triangeln Malmö 20170523.jpg|thumb|right|Scandic Triangeln.<br><br>Malmö is relatively low-rise on average, so the 20-storey Hotell Triangeln can serve as an orientation point.]] * {{sleep | name=Clarion Collection Hotel Temperance | alt= | url=https://www.strawberry.se/hotell/sverige/malmo/clarion-collection-hotel-temperance/ | email=cc.temperance@strawberry.se | address=Engelbrektsgatan 16 | lat=55.60396 | long=12.99836 | directions= | phone=+46 40 710 20 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111410184 | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Continental Malmö | url=http://www.continental-hotel.se/ | email= | address=Hospitalsgatan 2 | lat=55.604294 | long=12.995543 | directions= | phone=+46 40 12 19 77 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Duxiana Malmö | url=http://www.malmo.hotelduxiana.com/ | email= | address=Mäster Johansgatan 1 | lat=55.6069 | long=12.9973 | directions= | phone=+46 40 607 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The More Hotel Mazetti | url=http://www.themorehotel.se/en | email= | address=Norra Skolgatan 24 | lat=55.5943 | long=13.0066 | directions= | phone=+46 40 655 10 00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Mäster Johan | alt= | url=http://www.masterjohan.otels.eu/ | email= | address=Mäster Johansgatan 13 | lat=55.6059 | long=12.9976 | directions= | phone=+46 40 664 64 00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Blu Hotel| alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-malmo | email=inhousesales.malmo@radissonblu.com | address=Östergatan 10 | lat=55.60757 | long=13.00808 | directions= | phone=+46 40 698 40 00 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Central location, and very comfortable. Bedrooms are suite-sized, and include office area and living area, free Wi-Fi and Internet. Breakfast is not served after 10:00 on weekdays. }} * {{sleep | name=Elite Hotel Esplanade | alt= | url=https://www.elite.se/en/hotels/malmo/hotel-esplanade/ | email= | address=Mäster Johansgatan 15 | lat=55.60552 | long=12.99809 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Boutique-style 5-star hotel in a charming street right off the Lilla Torg. The WiFi is free of charge. }} * {{sleep | name=Scandic Kramer | alt= | url=https://www.scandichotels.com/kramer | email= | address=Stortorget 7 | lat=55.60688 | long=12.99944 | directions= | phone=+46 40 693 54 00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Scandic Malmö City | alt= | url=https://www.scandichotels.se/malmocity | email= | address=Kaptensgatan 1 | lat=55.60077 | long=13.00397 | directions= | phone=+46 40 615 03 00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Rather large rooms (family rooms up to 38 m²), all featuring kitchenettes, which can be very handy for longer stays }} * {{sleep | name=Scandic S:t Jörgen | alt= | url=http://www.scandic-hotels.com/stjorgen | email= | address=Stora Nygatan 35 | lat=55.60355 | long=13.00237 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A nice building with views over the Gustav Adolfs Torg market square and the Hansa shopping mall. Economy rooms have no windows. }} * {{sleep | name=Scandic Triangeln | alt=formerly Hilton | url=http://www.scandichotels.com/Hotels/Sweden/Malmo/Triangeln/ | email= | address=Triangeln 2 | lat=55.59635 | long=13.00138 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A gigantic edifice towering over the Triangeln shopping center, the former Hilton offers views over the city from rooms on higher floors, as well as from the top-floor gym. }} * {{sleep | name=Nordic Choice Quality Hotel View | alt= | url=https://www.nordicchoicehotels.se/hotell/sverige/malmo/quality-hotel-view/ | email= | address=Hyllie Stationstorg 29 | lat=55.56201 | long=12.976036 | directions= | phone=+46 40 37 41 00 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From 980 kr | image=Point Hyllie C, Malmö, augusti 2015.jpg | lastedit=2018-07-23 | content=One of Malmö's newest hotels, the 65-m-tall tower is right in front of the Malmö Arena in the middle of Hyllie. The tower offers views over Malmö and the Öresund Strait and was built in 2016. A taller 110-m tower is under construction right next to it as of 2018. Wi-Fi and breakfast included. }} == Connect == As of Sept 2021, Malmö has 4G from Net4Mobility/Tele2, and 5G from 3 Tre and Telia. Wi-Fi is widely available in public places. ==Stay safe== While Malmö has a media picture of having issues with gang crime, the overall crime rate is moderate by European standards. Visitors who do not actively seek trouble are unlikely to be confronted by gangs. The city center, which can be described as anything within a 15-20 minute walk from the central train station, is very safe, so long as you do not do anything stupid. Areas on the outskirts have varying levels of insecurity, but they are rarely of interest to tourists. As in other Swedish cities, drunk brawls, bicycle thefts and [[pickpocketing]] are among the most common risk factors for visitors. Anti-Semitic hate crimes have also been reported in Malmö, mostly tied to the many pro-Palestinian demonstrations seen by some as implicitly anti-Semitic. In the traffic, keep an eye out for bicycles, as cyclists automatically expect others to yield. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== * {{flag|Czech Republic}} {{listing | name=Czech Republic | url= | email= | address=Västerg. 22 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 40 97 36 98 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Denmark}} {{listing | name=Denmark | alt= | url= | email= | address=Neptunigatan 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 752-48 25 93 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Estonia}} {{listing | name=Estonia | url= | email= | address=S. Promenaden 53 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 40 23 60 10 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Finland}} {{listing | name=Finland | url= | email= | address=Jörgen Kocksg. 1 B | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 40 35 25 77 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|France}} {{listing | name=France | url= | email= | address=Ribersborgsv. 14 B | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 40 98 41 04 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany | url= | email= | address=N. Vallg. 70 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 40 611 85 95 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Greece}} {{listing | name=Greece | url= | email= | address=Frihamnsallen 5 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 40 97 50 24 | tollfree= | fax=+46 40 975044 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Iceland}} {{listing | name=Iceland | url= | email= | address=Brädgårdsv. 28 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 40 30 04 34 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Norway}} {{listing | name=Norway | url= | email= | address=Jungmansg. 12 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 40 12 35 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Peru}} {{listing | name=Peru | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gustav Adolfs Torg 47 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 73-423 27 37 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Sierra Leone}} {{listing | name=Sierra Leone | url= | email= | address=Verkstadsg. 4, Svedala (note: outside Malmö) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 40 40 26 10 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|United Kingdom}} {{listing | name=United Kingdom | url= | email= | address=Stortorget 21 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 40 793 79 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} Copenhagen, with many embassies, is a short train trip away. [[File:Oeresund Bridge.jpg|thumb|The ''Öresundsbron'' between Malmö and [[Copenhagen]]]] ==Go next== *Skånetrafiken's '''[https://www.skanetrafiken.se/samlingssida-ovrigt/oresund-runt/ Around the Sound]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (''Öresund Runt'') ticket is a great way to see the surrounding region of [[Scania]] as well as North Zealand, Denmark (including [[Copenhagen]]). For 299 kr, you get unlimited train travel and one ferry trip, for two days. * {{see | name=Foteviken Museum | alt= | url=http://www.fotevikensmuseum.se/d/en/home | email= | address= | lat=55.429281 | long=12.953139 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1426033| wikipedia=Foteviken Museum | content=In Höllviken, [[Vellinge]] municipality. A reconstruction of a Viking or early medieval village. This is a living museum, which means a number of people live as Vikings on site throughout the summer. }} * Catch a ferry and head to [[Travemünde]], Germany. {{routebox | image1=Tabliczka E6.svg | imagesize1=40 | directionl1=S | majorl1=[[Trelleborg]] | minorl1=[[Vellinge]] | directionr1=N | minorr1=[[Landskrona]] | majorr1=[[Gothenburg]] | link1=E6 through Sweden and Norway | image2=Tabliczka E20.svg | imagesize2=40 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Copenhagen]] {{flag|Denmark}} | minorl2=Oresund Bridge (toll) | directionr2=E | majorr2=merges with [[Image:Tabliczka E6.svg|30px]] until [[Gothenburg]] | minorr2= | image3=Tabliczka E22.svg | imagesize3=40 | directionl3=S | majorl3=merges with [[Image:Tabliczka E6.svg|30px]] | minorl3= | directionr3=NE | minorr3=[[Lund]] | majorr3=[[Kalmar]] }} {{guidecity}} {{isPartOf|Scania}} {{geo|55.5833|13.0000}} 71vh5yvjy2fnz4o2xvh23cx4ns1cgb1 0 21208 5289041 5237635 2026-06-07T11:18:05Z NewHikaru07 2063662 5289041 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Manila Intramuros.jpg|unesco=yes|pgname=Intramuros}} [[Image:PH-Manila-Cathedral.jpg|thumb|300px|Manila Cathedral, facing the main square of Intramuros]] '''Intramuros''' (Latin: ''within the walls''), also known as the ''Ciudad Murada'' ("Walled City" in Spanish) because of its most famous feature: a nearly 5-km-long circuit of massive stone walls and fortifications that almost completely surrounds the entire district, is the historic centre and oldest district of Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. ==Understand== [[Image:San Agustin Church, Intramuros, Manila, Philippines.jpg|thumb|300px|San Agustín Church, a [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]]]] From the city's foundation in 1571 to the end of Spanish rule in 1898, Intramuros ''was'' Manila. The Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi laid the foundations of the new capital on the former site of ''Maynilad'', a palisaded riverside settlement ruled by a native chieftain. To protect the inhabitants from attack, in the late 1500s construction began on a series of stone walls and fortifications that would eventually enclose a pentagonal area approximately 0.67 km² in size, within which lay a tight grid-like system of streets and a main square surrounded by government structures. The defensive curtain was more or less completed by the 1700s, although improvements and other construction work continued well into the next century. Within the protective walls rose a city of stone palaces, churches, monasteries, convents, schools, and fine courtyard houses. In the centuries that followed, Manila (meaning Intramuros) served as the capital of the Spanish East Indies - the centre of commerce, education, government, and religion in Spain's most distant imperial possession. Except for a brief period under British rule (1762-1764), Intramuros remained a Spanish city until 1898, when the US took control of the Philippines at the end of the Spanish-American War. In 1945, during the fierce Battle of Manila between American, Filipino and Japanese forces, Intramuros was almost completely destroyed. Instead of rebuilding on the same site, many of the religious orders and educational institutions that once resided in the walled district packed up and moved elsewhere. Although steps were taken to protect the city's historic character, vague laws and poor enforcement led to many unsightly modern buildings being built upon the ruins of the old. In 1979, the Intramuros Administration was established and stronger measures were introduced in order to preserve what was left. Many of the city's ancient gates and most of the walls have since been restored. On the other hand, there has been almost no progress in the reconstruction of key landmarks (such as major churches and old government buildings), due in part to a serious lack of funds and the existence of new structures. ==Get in== [[Image:Intramuros_map_captioned.png|thumb|400px|Map of Intramuros and the surrounding area]] ===By taxi=== For visitors who don't mind shelling out a little extra - and putting up with rush-hour traffic jams - Manila's relatively inexpensive taxis are probably the easiest and most direct way of reaching Intramuros from elsewhere in the city. The current flagdown rate is {{PHP|40}}, and the fare goes up in increments of {{PHP|3.50}} every 300 metres. ===By train=== The nearest railway station is [http://www.lrta.gov.ph/system_map.htm '''Central Terminal''' (LRT-1)]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Though within sight of the eastern walls, the station is a pretty long walk from the western part of Intramuros (where many of the major sights are located), so tourists headed in that direction might consider covering the rest of the journey by taxi. ===By water bus=== The Pasig River Ferry used to stop at '''Plaza México''' station, not far from the ruins of the Intendencia (Aduana) building, but according to reports the service has been suspended for an indefinite period. If operations resume, the ferry will likely use this same stopping point. ==Get around== {{mapframe|14.58802|120.96698|height=400|width=700|zoom=15}} {{Mapshape|wikidata=Q21021064,Q772211}} {{mapshapes|Q4165607}} It's hard to get hopelessly lost in Intramuros, thanks to the district's orderly street plan. '''General Luna''' (also known by its old name, '''Calle Real del Palacio''') is the closest thing Intramuros has to a main street and gives visitors easy access to most of the major attractions, including '''San Agustín Church''' and '''Manila Cathedral'''. Follow this street all the way to its northwestern tip and you'll find yourself in front of '''Fort Santiago'''; go the other way and you'll eventually end up in '''Rizal Park''', which is just over the border in the nearby [[Manila/Ermita|Ermita]] district. If you do lose your bearings, don't panic. Except for a small section near the river, '''the entire district is surrounded by walls''' - so there probably isn't much of a chance that you'll inadvertently end up in the wider city beyond. A quick look at a map (and perhaps a little help from passers-by) should easily put you back on track. [[Image:Calesa.jpg|thumb|300px|A ''calesa'' parked in front of Manila Cathedral]] *'''By ''calesa''''' - First used on the streets of Manila in the 18th century, these horse-drawn carriages can usually be found waiting for passengers near Fort Santiago. A nice, old-fashioned way to get around Intramuros. To avoid getting ripped off, it may be a good idea to ask about the route and confirm the price of the trip before setting out. *'''On foot''' - Walking from one attraction to another is a popular way to get around Intramuros. Just mind the cars: there are almost no sidewalks to speak of, so pedestrians usually share space with automobiles. It is even possible to walk on some sections of the old city walls. ==See== ===Walls, gates, and fortifications=== [[Image:Fort Santiago Gate.jpg|thumb|300px|Main gate of Fort Santiago]] Except for a small open stretch near the River Pasig, Intramuros is completely surrounded by the massive stone walls that gave the district its name. Starting from the northwestern end of the fortifications and moving anti-clockwise (''Note: This is not a comprehensive list!''): * {{see | name=Fort Santiago | alt= | url= | email= | address=Santa Clara | lat=14.595 | long=120.969444 | directions=on the NW end of Plaza Moriones | phone=+63 2 527-1572 | tollfree= | hours=8AM-6PM daily | price= | wikidata=Q478181 | content=The former military headquarters of the Spanish colonial government. Although the fort sustained very heavy damage during the 1945 Battle of Manila, several key portions of the compound were subsequently restored - including its iconic gate with a wooden relief featuring ''Santiago Matamoros'' (St. James the Moor-slayer), the patron saint of Spain. It is now considered a major landmark and one of Manila's most popular tourist attractions, partly because José Rizal - the national hero of the Philippines - was imprisoned here prior to his execution on 30 Dec 1896. The '''Rizal Shrine''' (see [[Manila/Intramuros#Museums|Museums]], below), a small museum dedicated to his life and work, is housed in a restored section of one of the fort's former barracks. {{PHP|75}}, {{PHP|50}} students/children. }} * {{see | name=Postigo del Palacio | url= | email= | address=Santa Lucia | lat= | long= | directions=a short distance from the back of the Palacio del Gobernador | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Built in 1662, renovated 1782-83. On 30 Dec 1896, national hero José Rizal was taken through this gate en route to the place of his execution, in what is known today as '''Rizal Park''' (see related entry on the district sub-page for [[Manila/Ermita|Ermita]]). }} *'''Puerta de Santa Lucia''' *'''Baluartillo de San Jose''' and '''Reducto de San Pedro''' * {{see | name=Baluarte de San Diego | url=http://www.intramuros.vweb.ph/sanpedro.htm {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Santa Lucia cor. Muralla | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Dating from the 17th century, this formidable bastion surrounds the remains of the round fort of '''Nuestra Señora de Guia''', the first stone fort built in Manila. Severely damaged during the Second World War, the Baluarte de San Diego was restored in the 1980s and is now a major tourist attraction. }} *'''Puerta Real''' and '''Revellin de Real del Bagumbayan''' *'''Baluarte de San Andres''' *'''Baluarte de San Francisco de Dilao''' *'''Puerta del Parian''' and '''Revellin del Parian''' *'''Baluarte de San Gabriel''' * {{see | name=Puerta de Isabel II | url= | email= | address=Magallanes Drive | lat= | long= | directions=near Colegio de San Juan de Letrán | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Built in 1861, this was the last gate to be opened in Intramuros' walls under Spanish rule. A fine statue of Queen Isabel II of Spain stands in front of the gate. }} ===Plazas, monuments, and public buildings=== [[Image:Plaza de roma.JPG|thumb|300px|Statue of King Carlos IV of Spain in Plaza de Roma]] * {{see | name=Plaza de Roma | alt= | url= | email= | address=General Luna (Calle Real del Palacio) cor. Andres Soriano (Aduana) | lat=14.592118 | long=120.973114 | directions=in front of Manila Cathedral | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7203681 | content=Bounded by the Manila Cathedral to the southeast, the Palacio del Gobernador to the southwest and the Ayuntamiento to the northeast, this small plot of land is Intramuros' very own ''plaza mayor'' (main square). At the centre of the plaza stands '''a monument to King Carlos IV of Spain''', cast in 1808 and erected in 1824 by a colonial government grateful for his having dispatched a shipment of smallpox vaccine to the Philippines. }} * {{see | name=Ayuntamiento | alt= | url= | email= | address=Andres Soriano (Aduana) cor. Cabildo | lat=14.592192 | long=120.974158 | directions=right next to Plaza de Roma | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17063849 | content=Completely rebuilt in 1884 after the disastrous earthquake of 1863, the seat of Manila's colonial-era city council once had some of the grandest interiors in Intramuros. The 1945 Battle of Manila left it a gutted shell, of which only parts of the first storey survived; it then suffered the indignity of serving as a parking lot. A major reconstruction project that started a few years ago is finally nearing completion, with the façade of the historic building now having regained much of its pre-war glory. }} * {{see | name=Palacio del Gobernador | alt= | url= | email= | address=General Luna (Calle Real del Palacio) cor. Andres Soriano (Aduana) | lat=14.5916 | long=120.9725 | directions=right next to Plaza de Roma | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q23821145 | content=This eight-storey office building was erected in the late 1970s on the site of '''the Spanish Governor-General's official residence''', which was destroyed in a powerful 1863 earthquake that also damaged many other structures in Intramuros. Sadly, the hulking modern building looks almost nothing like its grand 19th-century namesake. }} * '''Plaza Moriones''' - Located in front of Fort Santiago, this is where the Galeria de la Revolucion Filipina is situated. * '''Plaza México''' * '''Plaza Sto. Tomas''' * '''Plazuela de Sta. Isabel''' - a memorial monument of the civilian victims of World War II can be found here. ===Churches=== [[Image:Interior de la Catedral de Manila, Filipinas.jpg|thumb|Manila Cathedral (interior)]] * {{see | name=Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (Manila Cathedral) | alt= | url=https://manilacathedral.com.ph/ | email= | address=Cabildo cor. Beaterio | lat=14.59147 | long=120.97356 | directions=in front of Plaza de Roma | phone=+63 2 527-1796 | tollfree= | fax=+63 2-5360192 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q773443 | content=Destroyed and rebuilt several times over, the Cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila and one of the most important churches in the Philippines. The current Neo-Romanesque iteration (consecrated in 1958) is the eighth - or sixth, depending on who's counting - to stand on the site since 1581, succeeding the 19th-century structure that was levelled to the ground during the 1945 Battle of Manila. A small exhibit detailing the Cathedral's history can be found in one of the side chapels near the entrance. The church was reopened in 2017 after a major renovation, and so Masses are once again being offered daily; refer to the official website for a full schedule of liturgical services. Tours are also available upon request. Free entrance, but donations are appreciated. }} [[Image:San_Agustin_%28inside%29.jpg|thumb|300px|San Agustín Church (interior)]] * {{see | name=San Agustín Church | alt= | url=http://sanagustinchurch.org/ | email= | address=General Luna (Calle Real del Palacio) cor. Real | lat=14.58886 | long=120.97535 | directions= | phone=+63 2 527-4060 (museum number), +63 2 527-4061 (museum number) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1306513 | content=A true Spanish Baroque treasure, with magnificent trompe-l'œil ceilings and a splendid high altar. Consecrated in 1607, this ancient building managed to survive the Second World War (although it, too, sustained heavy damage) and is said to be the oldest stone church still standing in the Philippines. It was added to the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]] in 1993 as part of the group "Baroque Churches of the Philippines". Miguel López de Legazpi (1502-1572), the first Spanish Governor-General of the Philippines, is buried in a tomb near the high altar; other funerary monuments can be found along the walls or set into the floor. Much of San Agustín's neighbouring monastery was damaged during the war and was subsequently refashioned into exhibition space for the '''San Agustín Museum''' (see [[Manila/Intramuros#Museums|Museums]], below). The church is a very popular venue for weddings; don't be surprised if you encounter a ceremony in progress during your visit. Church itself is free when it is for services. However to enter at other hours, you will have pay for and enter through the adjacent museum. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Bahay Tsinoy | alt= | url=http://www.bahaytsinoy.org/ | email=info@bahaytsinoy.org | address=32 Anda cor. Cabildo | lat=14.590833 | long=120.975 | directions= | phone=+63 2 527-6083, +63 2 526-6796 | tollfree= | fax=+63 2 527-6085 | hours=Tu-Su 1PM-5PM | price= | wikidata=Q4842518 | content=A museum dedicated to the history and contributions of the Chinese-Filipino community. {{PHP|100}}, {{PHP|60}} students/children. }} [[Image:Casa_Manila_%28courtyard%29.jpg|thumb|300px|Casa Manila (courtyard)]] * {{see | name=Casa Manila | alt= | url= | email= | address=General Luna (Calle Real del Palacio) cor. Real | lat=14.589733 | long=120.975147 | directions=across the street from San Agustín Church | phone=+63 2 527-4084 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 9AM-6PM | price= | wikidata=Q2110598 | content=A recreation of a typical upper-class colonial Intramuros home. The interiors are filled with antique furniture, artwork, and other artifacts from the Spanish era, all carefully arranged to illustrate what life was like for wealthy families of that period. {{PHP|75}}, {{PHP|50}} students/children. }} * {{see | name=Light and Sound Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Santa Lucia cor. Victoria | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+63 2 524-2827 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Using images, sounds, and animatronics, the museum takes visitors on a journey through Philippine history under Spanish rule. The facility is housed in a building whose facade reproduces the appearance of '''the old mother house of the Beaterio de la Compañía de Jesús''', which stood on the site until its destruction during the Second World War. {{PHP|100}} per person for groups of 10 or more; smaller groups are reportedly charged a higher per-person rate (contact the museum to confirm arrangements). }} * {{see | name=Rizal Shrine | alt= | url= | email= | address=Fort Santiago | lat=14.594477 | long=120.969726 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 8AM-5PM | price= | wikidata=Q17086673| wikipedia=Rizal_Shrine_(Calamba) | content=Located within the walls of '''Fort Santiago''' (see [[Manila/Intramuros#Walls.2C_gates.2C_and_fortifications|above]]), this small museum contains exhibits related to the life and work of José Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines. }} * {{see | name=San Agustín Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=General Luna (Calle Real del Palacio) cor. Real | lat=14.589068 | long=120.975000 | directions=right next to San Agustín Church | phone=+63 2 527-4061 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=8AM-noon, 1PM-6PM daily | price={{PHP|200}}/adult, {{PHP|100}}/college students, {{PHP|90}}/high-school students, {{PHP|40}}/elementary school students | lastedit=2017-11-30 | content=Adjacent to the '''San Agustín Church''' (see [[Manila/Intramuros#Churches|Churches]], above), this museum's very impressive - if rather poorly labelled - collection includes Spanish colonial-era ecclesiastical vestments, sacred vessels, religious art, manuscripts, and other important cultural artifacts. The building itself is steeped in history, fashioned out of the surviving portions of a monastery that was heavily damaged during World War II. }} ===Ruins=== * {{see | name=Intendencia (Aduana) | alt= | url= | email= | address=Andres Soriano (Aduana) cor. Muralla | lat=14.5939 | long=120.975 | directions=not far from the riverbank | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17011167 | content=Built in the 1820s and reconstructed after the 1863 earthquake, this building once housed the Spanish colonial government's customs offices and other administrative units. It was damaged during the war but survived to re-enter government service - at one point housing the Central Bank of the Philippines - only to fall victim to a 1979 fire that caused massive destruction. There are plans to restore the building (whose exterior walls have survived more or less intact) for the use of the National Archives. }} * {{see | name=San Ignacio Church | url=http://www.intramuros.vweb.ph/sanignacio.htm {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Arzobispo cor. Anda | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Built by the Jesuits and consecrated in 1889, the church's magnificent interiors were completely destroyed in 1945. There are plans to restore the ruined building for use as an ecclesiastical museum. }} ===Other buildings=== * {{see | name=ECJ Building | url=http://www.intramuros.vweb.ph/agustinian.htm {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Santa Lucia cor. Real | lat= | long= | directions=near Puerta de Santa Lucia | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The external appearance of this post-war building closely mimics that of the '''Augustinian Provincial House''', an extension of the nearby San Agustín convent that was built on the site in the 19th century and destroyed by fire in 1932. }} ==Do== *{{do | name=Club Intramuros Golf Course | url= | email= | address=Bonifacio Drive cor. Aduana Street, Port Area | lat= | long= | directions=30-45 min from the airport via Roxas Blvd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A few years after the Americans took over from the Spanish in 1898, the fetid, swamp-like moat around Intramuros was drained and filled in. The newly reclaimed land was later covered with grass, spiced with a few sand pits and sprinkled with water traps. Result: a 4,326&nbsp;yd, 18 hole, par 66 greensward that wraps around the city's ancient walls and makes for an interesting (if rather short) golfing experience.}} ==Buy== For visitors looking to take something home, stores and galleries selling everything from native art to tourist kitsch aren't difficult to find in this district, especially near major landmarks like Fort Santiago. That said, Intramuros isn't really known for its shopping - to find more options one might consider heading out to the malls of the nearby [[Manila/Ermita|Ermita]] area and further afield. *{{buy | name=Mananzan Handicrafts | url= | email= | address=G/F Upl Building, Sta. Clara | lat= | long= | directions=near Fort Santiago | phone=+63 2 5279-734 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Local handcrafted goods and souvenirs. }} *{{buy | name=The Silahis Center | url=http://www.silahis.com/about.html | email=silahiscenter@silahis.com | address=744 General Luna (Calle Real del Palacio) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+63 2 527-2111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Handmade Filipino goods and folk art. Other departments within the same showroom feature fine art, antiques, and books.}} ==Eat== Fast food chains, convenience stores and street stalls are available if you are travelling on a budget. Food prices on local restaurants around the district are rather high for locals, but fairly reasonable to foreigners. ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Bistro Marinero | alt= | url=http://www.casamarinero.com/BistroMarineroRestaurant/tabid/66/Default.aspx | email=casa.marinero@nykfil.com.ph | address=General Luna (Calle Real del Palacio) cor. Santa Potenciana | lat= | long= | directions=near San Agustín | phone=+63 2-5272261 | tollfree= | fax=+63 2-5272234 | hours= | price= | content=The menu features a mix of Western and local dishes. Special "payday" buffets, combo meals, etc. }} * {{eat | name=Coco Bango Cafe and Restaurant | url=http://www.whiteknighthotelintramuros.com/Dining | email= | address=Plaza San Luis Complex, General Luna (Calle Real del Palacio) cor. Urdaneta | lat= | long= | directions=attached to the White Knight Hotel | phone=+63 2-5266181 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers Asian and Western fare. }} *{{eat | name=Ristorante delle Mitre | url= | email= | address=CBCP Building, 470 General Luna (Calle Real del Palacio) | lat= | long= | directions=near San Agustín | phone=+63 2-5595220 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Features simple, hearty Filipino meals inspired by the favourite dishes of the country's bishops and clergy. The culinary team is supervised by a nun who formerly served as a cook to a prominent local cardinal, and the walls are decorated with portraits and mementos of senior clerics, perfectly in keeping with the sacred atmosphere of the San Agustín area. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=9 Spoons | alt= | url=http://www.thebayleaf.com.ph/food-beverage/ | email= | address=9th Floor, The Bayleaf Intramuros, Muralla cor. Victoria | lat=14.589948 | long=120.978729 | directions=inside the Bayleaf Hotel building | phone=+63 2-3185000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2017-06-24 | content=Contemporary interiors, access to a roof deck and splendid views. The restaurant serves both international dishes and local specialities. Buffet breakfast daily, buffet lunch on weekdays. }} * {{eat | name=Barbara's | url=http://www.barbarasrestaurantandcatering.com/ | email= | address=Plaza San Luis, General Luna (Calle Real del Palacio) | lat=14.589471 | long=120.975235 | directions=right across the street from San Agustín | phone=+63 2-5273893, +63 2-5274086 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-06-24 | content=Housed in a Spanish colonial-style building a stone's throw from San Agustín Church, this centrally located restaurant serves traditional Filipino and Hispanic fare in an old-style setting. }} * {{eat | name=Ilustrado | url=http://www.ilustradorestaurant.com.ph/ | email=reservations@ilustradorestaurant.com.ph | address=744 General Luna (Calle Real del Palacio) | lat=14.587537 | long=120.977031 | directions=within the El Amanecer compound, a few blocks down the street from San Agustín | phone=+63 2-5273674 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-06-24 | content=Mainly Filipino-Spanish cuisine: ''rellenong bangus'' (stuffed milkfish), ''paella'', and other traditional dishes. Fine dining in the heart of the walled city. }} ==Drink== If you're feeling peckish - or need something more substantial to go with your beverage - the cafés listed here also generally offer light meals and snacks, making them a good alternative to the restaurants listed in the previous section. * {{drink | name=Cioccolata – Churros Café | alt= | url=https://www.thebayleaf.com.ph/intramuros/restaurant/cioccolata-churros-cafe/ | email= | address=Ground Floor, The Bayleaf Intramuros, Muralla cor. Victoria | lat= | long= | directions=look for the Bayleaf hotel building | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-F 6AM-10PM, Sa Su 8AM-8PM | price= | content=Nothing like some good old-fashioned ''churros con chocolate'' to relive colonial days. Also offers a selection of more contemporary beverages, sandwiches and desserts. }} *{{drink | name=Starbucks | url=http://www.starbucks.com/default.asp | email= | address=15-A Puerta Isabel II, Muralla cor. Magallanes | lat= | long= | directions=near Puerta de Isabel II | phone=+63 2-5274282 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=No matter where you go, you can't escape Starbucks. Sits not far from the historic Puerta de Isabel II, the last gate built in Intramuros. }} ==Sleep== Hotels of any kind - from the luxurious to the spartan - are easy to find in [[Manila#Sleep|Manila]], but there aren't many choices within Intramuros itself. There are a few hotels inside the district boundaries. Additional hotels can be found in the neighbouring [[Manila/Ermita#Sleep|Ermita]] district. Tourists willing to put up with (and pay for) long taxi rides might also consider bedding down in the high-end hotels of the posh [[Makati#Sleep|Makati]] business district, miles to the southeast. ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=The Bayleaf Intramuros | url=http://www.thebayleaf.com.ph | email= | address=Muralla cor. Victoria | lat=14.590147 | long=120.978704 | directions= | phone=+63 2-3185000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A swank hotel just inside the walls, with great views of the surrounding area (especially from the roof deck). The neighborhood isn't the best of places in Intramuros but the major sites should be within an easy walk from here. Complimentary WiFi upon check-in. Has a cafe on the ground floor and a restaurant on the 9th. }} *{{sleep | name=White Knight Hotel | url=http://www.whiteknighthotelintramuros.com | email= | address=Plaza San Luis Complex, General Luna cor. Urdaneta | lat=14.589657 | long=120.975697 | directions=opposite San Agustin church | phone=+63 2-5266539 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A new 29-room hotel in the heart of Intramuros. With the San Agustín Church right across the street and other major attractions within walking distance, the location is hard to beat. Free WiFi Internet access. Has a cafe-restaurant that offers a mix of Asian and Western fare.}} ===Splurge=== *{{sleep | name=Manila Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.manila-hotel.com.ph/ | email=resvn@manila-hotel.com.ph | address=One Rizal Park, Roxas Blvd | lat=14.582999 | long=120.974052 | directions= | phone=+63 2 527-0011 | tollfree= | fax=+63 2 527-0022 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Opened in 1912 on a prime site just outside the walls of Intramuros, the venerable Manila Hotel is a well-known landmark and a historic location in itself. General Douglas MacArthur lived there from 1935 to 1941. Special online rates (which are much lower than published rates) and other offers can be viewed on the hotel's official website. }} ==Connect== The international telephone country code for the Philippines is '''63'''. The area code for Metro Manila (including Intramuros) is '''02'''. For further information about this district, contact: * {{listing | name=Intramuros Visitors Center | url= | email= | address=Santa Clara | lat= | long= | directions=near Fort Santiago | phone=+63 2 527-2961 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Stop by this handily located information point (just inside the entrance gate leading to Fort Santiago) for maps and advice.}} ==Go next== Manila's sprawling Rizal Park, the National Museum and many other attractions are just over the border in the '''[[Manila/Ermita|Ermita]]''' district, within sight of Intramuros' southern walls. {{geo|14.590833|120.975000}} {{IsPartOf|Manila}} {{guidedistrict}} re9hl7n17k95fjn8imtifv91zzixk6n 0 21449 5289038 5276805 2026-06-07T10:44:28Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5289038 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg|pgname=Marmara}} '''Marmara Island''' (''Marmara Adası'') is the largest of the [[Marmara Islands]] in the [[Southern Marmara]] Region of Turkey. It's roughly triangular, 15 km east-west and 10 km north-south. The population in 2021 was 10,148, with about 4000 apiece in Marmara town and in Saraylar, with the rest in the coastal villages between. == Understand == [[File:Restes du palais de Justinien à Palatia, île de Marmara - Texier Charles Félix Marie - 1882.jpg|thumb|350px|How the ruins of a Justinianian palace in Saraylar appeared to French archaeologist Charles Texier during his expedition to Asia Minor in the 1830s]] Tourism got started here in the 4th century AD, as the nobles of Byzantium found the island an agreeable place for summer villas and pleasure palaces. It was variously called "Proikonnesos" (island of the royal dowry) and "Prinkipo" (island of the aristocracy); but nothing remains of these sybarite resorts except perhaps the name of the village of Saraylar, "palaces", calqued from its Greek original Παλάτια ''Palatia''. The island is rugged, with the lowland south farming olives and wine grapes; fishing was also a traditional livelihood but the sea has become fished out. The north is forested mountains, rising to 709 meters at Ilyas Tepe. The big industry here has always been marble - ''marmara'' in Greek, hence the present name of the island and its surrounding sea. Emperor Diocletian sent heretics to the quarries as slave labour, Hagia Sophia in Istanbul was clad in the island's marble, and today it goes to adorn bathrooms, hotel lobbies and corporate foyers the world over. Although Marmara town remains the main settlement, Saraylar near the quarries has grown into a second town and ferry port. == Get in == {{mapframe|40.620|27.630|height=500|layer=Mapbox Satellite|width=700|zoom=12}} [http://www.ido.com.tr/ IDO ferries] for foot passengers normally sail from Istanbul in summer (May to October), stopping at Avşa. The total length of the sail is usually 2.5 hours. [https://gdu.com.tr/ Gestaş] car ferry sails twice a day from [[Erdek]]. It takes 2-3 hours via Balikli on Paşalimani island and [[Avşa]], also calling at Ekinlik two days a week. The boat is based on Avşa so there's an early morning sailing from there via Marmara to Erdek, and the evening ferry from Erdek heads on there after Marmara. In 2022 the single fare from Erdek is 25 TL, car 65 TL. May-Aug a Gestaş waterbus for foot-passengers sails from Narlı, the beach resort 15 km northwest of Erdek. There are two sailings a day, so a day-trip is possible. [https://www.marmararoro.com/ Marmara RoRo] sails several times a day between [[Erdek]] and [[Tekirdağ]] Barbaros on the far mainland coast. Ferries twice per day calls at Marmara town in the south, and two calls at Saraylar on the north coast. {{marker | name=Marmara ferry port | type=go | lat=40.5832 | long=27.5625 }} is 500 m east of the main town. {{marker | name=Saraylar | type=go | lat=40.6561 | long=27.6589 }} is the north coast ferry port. == Get around == ''Municipality Busses'' ran out from Marmara town to the other settlements, and connect with the ferries. They're more frequent in summer (once every hour is summer, few times a day during winter) but run all year as school buses. They run to Çınarlı, Gündoğdu, Topağaç, Asmalı and Saraylar. Little yellow taxis ply in Marmara (+90 530 799 6110), Çınarlı (+90 535 599 6440), Gündoğdu (+90 535 345 3784) and Saraylar (+90 532 717 8956). There is no through road along the norh coast, so from Çınarlı to Saraylar you have to wind along the south coast then over the hills. == See == * {{marker | name=Asmalı | type=see | lat=40.6162 | long=27.7062 }} is a little harbour village that retains several traditional wooden Greek houses from before the 1923 population exchange. The residents might let you look in for a small donation. Many of their ancestors were deported from Greek Aegean islands as part of that exchange. * {{marker | name=Topağaç | type=see | lat=40.6014 | long=27.6632 |}} The town is located on the southern coast of the island, boasting a long, expansive sandy beach with breathtaking mountain views. It’s also renowned for its abundance of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables sourced from local farms. * {{marker | name=Agios Nikolaos | type=see | lat=40.64904 | long=27.70279 }} in a valley called Yana (from Greek γέννα ''génna'', "birth" or by extension "fertile") on the road to Saraylar is a chapel on a Greek cross plan, probably from the 17th century. It was abandoned during the population exchange, and there are few, faint decorations remained in the interior. Bartholomew I of Constantinople, the Ecumenical Patriarch, held a service here in 2013, the first time since its abandonment about a century prior. * {{marker | name=Marble Factory | type=see | lat=40.6501 | long=27.6901 }} (''Mermer Taş Fabrikası'') along the eastern rim of the Abroz cove east of Saraylar is the ruins of a marble processing plant started operations in 1912 — the oldest in Turkey — and abandoned in the 1970s. All of its machinery, now rusting away on site, continued running on [[steam power]] until its closure. As of 2024, the grounds were inaccessible beyond a locked gate. * '''Marble Museum''' (''Saraylar Açık Hava Müzesi'') 500 m west of Saraylar ferry port was a marble quarry in Roman times, and is dotted with unfinished sculptures and funerary monuments that never got to grace a cemetery or forum. Indeed they usually weren't finished here, but shipped out as rough blocks then finely carved on site, a prize example being the Ludovisi Battle sarcophagus now in Rome. The quarry is free, 24 hours. Large quarries remain active in the hills south of town. * {{marker | name=Onur Madencilik | type=see | lat=40.6425 | long=27.5521 }} and nearby Tuna Madencilik look like sinister campsites on satellite maps. No, all those white oblongs aren't tents, but marble slabs awaiting shipment. You may find the approach road closed to non-company traffic, in any case beware of huge oncoming trucks around the next blind corner. * {{marker | name=Hayırsız ada | type=see | lat=40.6430 | long=27.6629 }} is the islet seen to the west. The name means "No Good Island" and it's wiser to accept this than to investigate. == Do == * '''Beaches''' are a series of big or small coves, very clean. Specifically, Topağac Beach, Marble Beach in Saraylar and Manastır near Çınarlı. Beware currents. * '''Water sports:''' you should have gone to Avşa. Shacks and franchises on Marmara have withered since covid, and aren't around in 2022. Check the big beach hotels to see if anything's possible. == Buy == * Marmara town has Migros by the ferry pier, open daily 08:30-22:00. * All the other settlements have grocery stores as well. == Eat == * '''Marmara town''' waterfront has Marmara Pide Salonu, Marina Cafe, Pasazula Restoran, Ada Dürüm Kebap Salonu, Birol, Boğaziçi Yakamoz, Üçler, Acente, Taşfırın and Birsen. * '''South beach''' has [https://www.neredekal.com/pehlivan-pansiyon-restaurant-fiyatlari/ Pehlivan Motel]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Hasan Baba. * '''Çınarlı''' has Çınaraltı Cafe Bar, Cadde Lokantasi, Lacivert Fast Food and Doğa Cafe. * '''Gündoğdu''' has Ocakbaşı Dürüm and Kıvanç Fast Food. * '''Topağaç''' has Tadım Lahmacun Pide Salonu and Topağaç Merkez Pilajı. * '''Saraylar''' port has Özmen Ekmek Fırını and Yıldırım Öz Karadeniz Odunlu Ekmek Fırını, the pansiyon strip has Abroz Baraka, Masal and Üç Öz Pide Lahmacun Kebab Salonu. == Drink == * Most bars are within hotels or restaurants, there aren't free-standing pubs. * Wine is made on the island. There are no vineyards you can tour, but ask around for the local product. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Ada Palas Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.adapalasotel.com/ | email= | address=Atatürk Cd 27/D, Marmara town | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+90 266 885 5007 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double 700 TL | lastedit=2022-05-11 | content=Boxy modern place, clean, near the ferry port. }} * '''[http://www.sunlightotel.com.tr/ Sunlight Hotel]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' is budget, west on Cumhuriyet Cd. * {{sleep | name=Hotel Mola | alt= | url=http://www.hotelmola.com.tr/ | email= | address=Şifalısu Yolu Sk, Marmara town | lat=40.5858 | long=27.5526 | directions= | phone=+90 266 855 5101 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double 1000 TL | lastedit=2022-05-11 | content=Pleasant family-oriented hotel on Kole beach. }} * '''[https://www.satomotel.com.tr/ Şato Motel]''' next to Mola gets good reviews. * {{sleep | name=Mermer Beach Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.mermerhotel.com/| email= | address=Aba Plajı 22/A, Marmara town | lat=40.5799 | long=27.5674 | directions= | phone=+90 530 879 3888 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-11 | content=Relaxing resort hotel on the south beach strip. }} * '''[https://belisotel.com/ Bellis]''' is a peaceful hotel a block inland from Mermer Beach Hotel. * '''Çınarlı''' on the coast north of Marmara town has pansiyons but no hotel. You might try [https://dostlarpansiyon.com/ Dostlar]{{Dead link|date=October 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://www.xn--itur-55a.com/ İştur]{{Dead link|date=November 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://kalemipansiyon.com/ Kalemi]{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://www.sabrikadioglupansiyon.com.tr/ Kadıoğlu] or [https://pamukanneapartpansiyon-lodge.business.site/ Pamukanne]{{Dead link|date=June 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. * {{sleep | name=Ali Baba Butik Otel | alt= | url=http://alibababutikotel.com/ | email= | address=Köy İçi Yolu 197A, Gündoğdu | lat=40.5810 | long=27.5979 | directions= | phone=+90 532 658 8540 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-11 | content=Small place with a pool in Gündoğdu. }} * '''Topağaç''' accommodation remained closed in 2022. * '''Saraylar''' accommodation clusters 500 m east of the ferry port. They include [https://www.abrozotel.com/ Abroz Apart Otel]{{Dead link|date=March 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, Gün Palas and [http://ozmanapart.com/ Ozman Apart]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. By the port is [https://sarayotel-hotel.business.site/ Saray Otel]{{Dead link|date=June 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. == Connect == As of May 2022, you might manage a call in the main town or Çınarlı with Turkcell or Vodafone, but the island has virtually no mobile signal. 5G has not rolled out in Turkey. == Go next == * Touristy [[Avşa]] and sleepy Paşalimanı are the other inhabited Marmara Islands, with daily ferries from Marmara. * [[Erdek]] is the nearest mainland port. Not much to amuse you here, head east for historic [[Bursa]]. * [[Tekirdağ]] on the mainland north has buses to Istanbul and [[Edirne]]. {{routebox | image4=Ferry.png | imagesize4=22 | directionl4=N | majorl4=END | minorl4='''[[Tekirdağ]]''' | directionr4=S | majorr4=[[Erdek]] | minorr4=[[Avşa]] }} {{geo|40.6167|27.6167}} {{IsPartOf|Marmara_Islands}} {{outlineruralarea}} eq48ws00h8he86pz7od7y88tc76id0o 0 21657 5289040 5262176 2026-06-07T11:18:01Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5289040 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} [[Image:Matsalu.jpg|thumb|300px|A view to Matsalu National Park from river]] '''Matsalu National Park''' is in [[Läänemaa]] county, western [[Estonia]]. ==Understand== Matsalu National Park includes Matsalu Bay, the delta area of the Kasari River, and the surrounding flooded meadows, coastal meadows, reed beds and forests. ===History=== ===Landscape=== Matsalu Bay is shallow, brackish and rich in nutrients. Väinameri Sea bordering the Matsalu Bay includes more than 40 islands which are also part of the park. The bay is 18 km long, 6 km wide and only 1.5 metres deep. ===Flora and fauna=== Matsalu National Park is one of the largest and most important autumn stopping grounds for migratory birds in Europe. 275 bird species have been recorded in Matsalu, among which 175 are nesting and 33 transmigrating waterfowl. Thousands of geese and dipper ducks can be seen on the floodplains, the coastal meadows are crowded with Branta species and the bay area is alive with swans, coots and diving ducks. 49 species of fish and 47 species of mammals are registered in the area of the nature reserve, along with 772 species of vascular plants. ===Climate=== ===Visitor information=== * [http://www.matsalu.ee/?id=739 Park website]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ==Get in== ==Fees and permits== ==Get around== You can explore the landscape on foot, by bicycle or by boat (to Matsalu Bay). ==See== Matsalu International Nature Film Festival is held every autumn in nearby [[Lihula]] town. '''Penijõe manor''' is the regional centre of State Nature Conservation Centre. A small exhibition of nature, slideshows and videos can be viewed. ==Do== Most observation towers are accessible by car or bus, only Penijõe observation tower requires a short walk from the Matsalu Nature Centre. In the spring to autumn period and during rainy seasons visitors should bring along waterproof boots. Boat trips are held along the reed channels in spring and summer when the water level is above average. ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== ===Camping=== ===Backcountry=== ==Go next== * [[Haapsalu]] &ndash; "Venice of the north", and a major seaside resort and medium-sized port city, good for visiting spas, taking mud baths, sailing and swimming. But also interesting monuments of the middle ages, like the cathedral and the Ruins of Haapsalu Castle, and a famous and picturesque Railway Museum can be seen here. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|West Estonia and Islands}} {{geo|58.78368|23.69717}} 9hovvx0xjsaq4wd9kbnez3vfnfrgz1k 0 21780 5289042 5068898 2026-06-07T11:40:12Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5289042 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''McAlester''' is in the [[Choctaw Country]] region of [[Oklahoma]] and home to the Oklahoma State Penitentiary. ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== '''Old Town Historic District''' - the historic area of McAlester that offers shopping, antiques, a few restaurants, and historic sites. Located on North Main Street. ==Do== * {{do | name=Choctaw Casino McAlester | url=https://www.choctawcasinos.com/choctaw-mcalester | email= | address=1638 S George Nigh Expy | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 918 423-8161 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A local casino that is mostly slot machines with a few other games. Drinks and a restaurant are available. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Angel's Diner | url=http://www.angels50sdiner.com/ | email= | address=1402 S George Nigh Expy | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 918 423-2633 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A 50s diner. }} * {{eat | name=Taco Bob's Fiesta Grille | alt= | url=http://tacobob307.wixsite.com/mysite | email= | address=307 Main St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 918 426-5990 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-01-01 | content=Open since 1974, Taco Bob's is one of McAlester's best Mexican restaurants. }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== *'''[https://www.hotelmcalester.com AmericInn by Wyndham]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''', 609 S George Nigh Expy. Complimentary breakfast and indoor hot tub/pool. Tel: +1 918-426-1300. $64 (Dec 2021) * {{sleep | name=Quality Inn & Suites McAlester | alt= | url=https://www.choicehotels.com/oklahoma/mcalester/quality-inn-hotels/ok293 | email=utah1225@outlook.com | address=400 South George Nigh Expressway, 74501 | lat=34.92084 | long=95.74155 | directions=exit 90 on Highway 69 | phone=+1 918-426-8091 | tollfree=+1 918-426-8091 | checkin=03:00 PM | checkout=11:00 AM | price= | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content=Pet-friendly and smoke-free hotel, with hot breakfast, free WiFi, rooms and suites featuring refrigerators, microwaves and flat-screen TVs. }} ==Go next== [[File:Talimena Drive.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Talimena Drive in the fall]] *'''[http://www.talimenascenicdrive.com/ Talimena Drive]{{Dead link|date=August 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' from [[Talihina]], [[Oklahoma]] to [[Mena (Arkansas)|Mena]], [[Arkansas]] 54 Mile scenic drive in Oklahoma and Arkansas along the ridge of the Ouachita Mountains and the Ouachita National Forest. The drive has frequent turnouts so you can enjoy the scenery. {{routebox | image1=Indian Nation Turnpike.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Henryetta]] | minorl1=Jct [[File:Oklahoma State Highway 9.svg|18px]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Hugo]] | minorr1=[[Antlers]] | image2=US 69.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=N | majorl2=[[Muskogee]] | minorl2=[[Eufaula]] | directionr2=S | majorr2=[[Greenville (Texas)|Greenville]] | minorr2=[[Atoka]] | image3=US 270.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=W | majorl3=[[Oklahoma City]] | minorl3=[[Holdenville]] | directionr3=E | majorr3=[[Hot Springs (Arkansas)|Hot Springs]] | minorr3=[[Wilburton]] | image4=Oklahoma State Highway 1.svg | imagesize4=22 | directionl4=W | majorl4=[[Ada (Oklahoma)|Ada]] | minorl4=Jct [[Holdenville|N]] [[File:US 75.svg|18px]] [[Atoka|S]] | directionr4=E | majorr4=[[Mena (Arkansas)|Mena]] | minorr4=Jct [[Wilburton|N]] [[File:Oklahoma State Highway 2.svg|18px]] [[Antlers|S]] → [[Talihina]] | image5=Oklahoma State Highway 31.svg | imagesize5=22 | directionl5=W | majorl5=Jct [[Holdenville|N]] [[File:Oklahoma State Highway 48.svg|18px]] [[Durant|S]] | minorl5=Jct [[Holdenville|N]] [[File:US 75.svg|18px]] [[Atoka|S]] / [[Ada (Oklahoma)|W]] [[File:Oklahoma State Highway 3.svg|18px]] [[Atoka|E]] | directionr5=E | majorr5=[[Bokoshe]] | minorr5=Jct [[File:Oklahoma State Highway 2.svg|18px]] [[Wilburton|S]] → Jct [[File:Oklahoma State Highway 82.svg|18px]] [[Talihina|S]] }} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|34.933056|-95.766389}} {{isPartOf|Choctaw Country}} gn4pyscrmh06idrgqahp4fxh1r051zh 0 22825 5288884 5274187 2026-06-06T15:21:50Z Mrkstvns 144844 /* Barrio Antiguo */ - add Hostal Hare Krishna 5288884 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Monterrey Centro Macroplaza.jpg|pgname=Centro}} '''Centro''' is the central downtown area of [[Monterrey]]. It includes popular tourist areas like the Macroplaza and Barrio Antiguo. For the purposes of this district article, it is bounded by Ruiz Cortines on the north, Churubusco on the east, Carranza on the west, and the Santa Catarina River to the south. ==Understand== El Centro is the traditional downtown area of Monterrey. It is home to most state and local government facilities as well as most of the Monterrey area's significant tourist attractions (museums, monuments, and historical sites). Although new shopping malls in the San Pedro area have become retail magnets, the traditional shopping area of Monterrey is downtown, particularly along Padre Mier, where department stores like Sears and Nuevo Mundo remain popular Many major hotels are in el Centro, with the Barrio Antiguo providing some good hostels for budget travelers seeking rooms with local color and flavor. ==Get in== See the main article for a more detailed discussion of urban transportation in the [[Monterrey#Get in|Monterrey]] area. ===By metro=== Use Metrorrey Line 2 or 3 to get to el Centro. Zaragoza is the best stop for travelers going to see the sights around the Macroplaza or the Barrio Antiguo, (though Padre Mier may be more convenient for Zona Rosa shopping). The entrance to the Zaragoza station is on the Macroplaza on Padre Meir, in between Zaragoza and Zuazua. Santa Lucia (line 3), Y Griega (line 1), and Parque Fundidora (line 2) are the best stops for attractions in Parque Fundidora. The Parque Fundidora station is 2 blocks walk from Arena Monterrey or 4 blocks to park entrance 4, close to many of the park's main attractions. The Santa Lucia station is convenient to the southwest end of park, near the Baseball Hall of Fame (from the Santa Lucia station, walk 50m north on Av. Gomez, then turn right on Gregorio Torres and walk about 250m. Enter the park through the parking garage for the Baseball Hall of Fame (the guards will point you to the elevators that will take you up to park level). ==Get around== Walking is the best way to get around the downtown area, and several pedestrian-only options make el Centro increasingly enjoyable for walking. The Macroplaza is criss-crossed with sidewalks, Calle Morelos is closed to vehicle traffic, and the Paseo Santa Lucia offers quiet, safe walkways beside the waterway from the Museo de la Historia Mexicana all the way to Parque Fundidora. Taxis and buses are plentiful and are good options for getting out of the Macroplaza area. See the main article about [[Monterrey#Get around|Monterrey]] for details. {{mapframe|25.667|-100.309|zoom=15}} ==See== [[Image:Mty_catedral6.JPG|thumb|250px|Monterrey Cathedral]] [[Image:Mty_macroplaza2.JPG|thumb|250px|Neptune fountain at the Macroplaza in Monterrey.]] * {{see | name=Faro Comercial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.666298 | long=-100.310194 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5436075 | content=The bright orange obelisk is a monument to Monterrey's business orientation. At night, laser beacons light the sky. }} * {{see | name=Museo Arte Contemporaneo (MARCO) | alt= | url=http://www.marco.org.mx/ | email= | address=Calle Zuazua y Jardón | lat=25.66499 | long=-100.310036 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8262 4500 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Zuazua at Jardón. Monterrey's large, modern forum for [[Modern and contemporary art|contemporary arts]] is an architecturally stunning showpiece that features a fascinating collection of modern Latino artists. Frequently changing special expositions mean the museum is never the same tour twice. Includes a small outdoor [[Sculpture|sculpture garden]]. }} * {{see | name=Monterrey Cathedral | alt=Catedral Metropolitana de Nuestra Señora de Monterrey | url=https://www.arquidiocesismty.org/ | email=contacto@arquidiocesismty.org | address=Juan Zuazua 1100 Sur | lat=25.665621 | long=-100.31002 | directions= | phone=+52 81 1158 2450 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-04-15 | content=Monterrey's cathedral is one of the few colonial-style landmarks in the city. Younger and less elaborate than the cathedrals of Central Mexican cities, it is nonetheless a beautiful church worth seeking out, especially for a Sunday mass. }} * {{see | name=Mexican History Museum | alt=Museo de Historia Mexicana | url=http://www.museohistoriamexicana.org.mx/ | email= | address=Doctor José Ma. Coss 445 Sur | lat=25.671577 | long=-100.306627 | directions= | phone=+52 81 2033 9898 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3329683 | content=Large, modern museum chronicling the history of Mexico, from pre-Colombian civilizations like the Maya and Aztec, through the colonial period, the revolution, and the modern industrial age. }} * {{see | name=Museum of the Northeast | alt=Museo del Noreste, MUNE | url= | email= | address=Calle Diego de Montemayor 444 | lat=25.670762 | long=-100.306755 | directions= | phone=+52 81 2033 9898 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, closed Monday | price= | content=A regional history museum focusing on the role of the north in Mexico's long and fascinating history. Special exhibits of global interest are also featured. }} * {{see | name=Museo Metropolitano | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.666289 | long=-100.311323 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8344 1971 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The old city hall has been transformed into a delightful, low-key museum. The ground floor features some permanent historical exhibits, but the upper level is usually dedicated to showcasing emerging local artists. }} * {{see | name=Palacio del Gobierno | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.67288 | long=-100.30898 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Palacio de Gobierno (Nuevo_León) | wikidata=Q7126312 | lastedit=2022-10-20 | content=Government functions have been moved out of the original Nuevo Leon State House, and in their place is an impressive new museum that showcases the political history of Nuevo Leon. Although foreign tourists will likely find little value to some of the exhibits, the architecture of the place is fascinating and the restoration work first rate. At least walk in to admire the courtyards and the collection of stained glass windows memorializing Mexican heroes. }} * {{see | name=Teatro de la Ciudad | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Mariano Matamoros 732 | lat=25.669036 | long=-100.309055 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Located on the Macroplaza, the Teatro la Cuidad is a thoroughly modern venue for live theater, classical music, and the performing arts. }} * {{see | name=Parroquia Sagrado Corazon | alt= | url=https://www.sagradocorazonmty.org/ | email= | address=5 de Mayo 545 Ote., Centro | lat=25.673537 | long=-100.309441 | directions=Corner of 5 de Mayo and Zaragoza, behind the Palacio de Gobierno | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 08:00-13:00, 15:00-20:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-10-20 | content=Monterrey is unusual among Mexican cities in that it has few stunning, huge, colonial era churches. Most date from the 20th century and have little scenic or historic value. Parroquia Sagrado Corazon is interesting in that it dates from the late 19th century and retains the colonial architecture and style of Mexico's historic churches, but with some of the smooth textures and brighter colors that would mark architecture of the era. Be aware that this is an active church, and while visitors are welcome, worship services may be taking place (particularly on Sunday). }} * {{see | name=Templo Expiatorio de San Luis Gonzalez | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hidalgo 280, Centro | lat=25.667734 | long=-100.318493 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-19:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-22 | content=Neogothic church dating from 1898. First church to be built entirely of concrete and cement. (No stones, no wood). }} * {{see | name=Antiguo Palacio Federal | alt=Palacio Correos, LABNL | url= | email= | address=Calle Washington 648 | lat=25.673865 | long=-100.309132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=W-F 14:00-21:00, Sa 11:00-19:00, closed M-Tu | price=Free | lastedit=2024-09-18 | content=Monterrey's old federal building was designed by architect Augusto Petriccioli and built between 1928 and 1929. Its distinctive [[Art Deco architecture|art deco style]] is one of the few examples of the period remaining in the city. The building was extensively renovated and re-opened as LABNL, a novel workshop for progressive civic projects. The building is known for its frieze on the front facade and for an observation tower that visitors can enter (free of charge). }} ===Parque Fundidora=== Steel was one of the pillars of Monterrey's industrial expansion of the 20th century and the biggest player was ''Compañía Fundidora de Fierro y Acero de Monterrey'', which began in 1900 and would grow to become the largest steel foundry in Latin America before its eventual bankruptcy in 1986. When the steel mills closed, the federal and state governments took control of the land, intending to re-purpose it as a public green space that would serve as an "industrial archaeology museum". The result is Parque Fundidora, a large urban park that covers more than 200 hectares and includes numerous former industrial facilities that now house museums, event venues, recreational facilities, and cultural spaces. The park is accessible by public transit. Use Metrorrey to Y-Griega or Parque Fundidora stations. (You could also use the Santa Lucia station if entering the park near the Baseball Hall of Fame.) ====Museums==== [[File:MTYbaseballHallFame.jpg|thumb|In the Mexican Baseball Hall of Fame]] * {{see | name=Museo Acero horno3 | alt= | url=https://www.horno3.org/ | email= | address=Av. Fundidora | lat=25.676305985687538 | long=-100.28250938488024 | directions= | phone=+52 81 3158 6555 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 11:00 - 18:00, closed M | price=M$200 (general admission, discounts for children and students) | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-04-24 | content=Located inside the enormous blast furnace, the museum has science and technology exhibits with a focus on engineering skills. A full-service restaurant called ''El Lingote'' is on the upper level. }} * {{see | name=Mexican Baseball Hall of Fame | alt=Salon de la Fama del Beisbol | url=http://www.salondelafama.com.mx/ | email= | address=San Gregorio Torres, Centro | lat=25.67298 | long=-100.295005 | directions=in Parque Fundidora | phone=+52 8328 5746 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5391561 | lastedit=2022-11-16 | content=The Mexican Baseball Hall of Fame expanded into a major new museum (new as of 2022) located in the heart of Parque Fundidora. Stop in and see the players who've made it big, not just in Mexico, but in U.S. major league teams as well. An entertaining and enlightening museum for any true sports fan. The gift shop sells baseball memorabilia. The new museum includes an on-site restaurant. }} [[File:Hands-Museo Papalote Monterrey.jpg|thumb|Handprinted wall at Papalote Childrens Museum]] * {{see | name=Papalote Childrens Museum | alt=Papalote Museo del Niño | url=http://papalotemty.org.mx/ | email= | address=Av. Fundidora | lat=25.677127884473983 | long=-100.28450494805831 | directions= | phone=+52 81 1642 3161 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00 - 18:00, closed M | price=M$280 (admission only; IMAX or other activities are extra) | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-04-24 | content=Childrens activities and learning experiences with an emphasis on hands-on activities. }} * {{see | name=Muscera | alt=Wax Museum | url=http://museodeceramonterrey.com/ | email= | address=Av. Fundidora | lat=25.677065326175555 | long=-100.28392294751876 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00 - 20:30 | price=M$100 | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-04-24 | content=Classic wax museum with figures of political, historic, and popular entertainment personalities. Includes famous Mexican presidents like Benito Juarez as well as pop music stars like Michael Jackson or Juan Gabriel. }} * {{see | name=Centro de Las Artes | alt= | url=http://www.parquefundidora.org/ | email= | address=Av. Fundidora | lat=25.677703502825295 | long=-100.28368691314368 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8126 8500 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00 - 20:00, closed M | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-04-24 | content=Art gallery displaying photographic works as well as drawings and paintings by contemporary artists. }} ====Event Spaces==== In addition the indoor event venues listed here, there are outdoor amphitheatres and open grassy areas that are often used for seasonal events like the Christmas festival (''Luztopia'') and huge music festivals like ''Pa'l Norte'' and ''Machaca Fest''. * {{do | name=Cintermex | alt= | url=http://www.cintermex.com/ | email= | address=Av. Fundidora | lat=25.678472407912494 | long=-100.28804222820115 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-04-25 | content=Monterrey's primary venue for industrial and commercial trade shows and conventions. }} * {{do | name=Arena Monterrey | alt= | url=https://www.arenamonterrey.com/ | email= | address=Av. Francisco Madero | lat=25.681276458841133 | long=-100.2883211779171 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-04-25 | content=Large modern arena seating 18,000 fans for indoor sports such as basketball and indoor soccer, as well as major pop music concerts and family shows. }} * {{do | name=Auditorio Citibanamex | alt= | url=http://www.auditoriocitibanamex.com.mx/ | email= | address=Priv. Fundidora | lat=25.677924 | long=-100.280869 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-04-25 | content=Indoor concert hall hosting popular music performers. Seats about 8,000. }} ====Recreational facilities==== * {{do | name=Expedicion Amazonia | alt= | url=https://parqueamazonia.com/ | email= | address=Av. Fundidora | lat=25.675474901092254 | long=-100.28663674909774 | directions= | phone=+52 81 1578 8273 | tollfree= | hours=10:30 - 20:30 | price=M$190 (adults) | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-04-25 | content=Two animal attractions: lorakeets (which you can feed) and lemurs (who like to move it, move it). Rides include zip lines (tirolesa) and Xtreme bikes. }} * {{do | name=Ice Skating Rink | alt=Pista de Hielo | url=http://www.pistadehielofundidora.com/ | email= | address=Av. Fundidora | lat=25.67862711578651 | long=-100.28249541841205 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8191 8000 | tollfree= | hours=Erratic hours, but generally includes 17:00 - 21:00 | price=M$120+ | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-04-27 | content=Indoor ice skating rink. Rents skates by the hour. Great place to get out of the heat! }} * '''Bike Rentals''' (2 locations: one at Cintermex entrance, the other at Gate 4 entrance) - includes kids bikes, bikes for two, and four-wheel bikes. Ride around the track... * '''3.4 km track''' - jogging, bicycling, walking, roller blading, very flat, paved surface that was built as a Grand Prix race track * '''Picnic areas''' * '''Industrial Heritage Trails''' - industrial equipment from the early 20th century along pea-gravel walking trails * '''Paseo Santa Lucia''' - pontoon boats going to the Macroplaza with walkways along the 1.9 km waterway * '''Lago Fundidora''' - artificial lake where you can rent paddleboats ==Do== * {{do | name=Teatro de la Ciudad | alt=City Theatre | url= | address=Dr. José Ma. Coss 732 | lat=25.66925521766611 | long=-100.3089448481542 | directions=In Macroplaza, near the Museum of Mexican History | phone=+52 818 343 8975 | hours=Varies | price=Varies | lastedit=2025-05-15 | content=Monterrey's showcase for the performing arts is the Teatro de la Ciudad, in the heart of downtown. The [[Theatre|theatre]] presents dramatic works, musical performances, and dance. It is the home venue for the '''[https://balletdemonterrey.com/ Monterrey Ballet]''' which typically performs 4-5 shows per year. The 2025 season will include ''La Fille Mal Gardée'', ''Convergencia'', ''Swan Lake'', ''Giselle'' and ''The Nutcracker''. Tickets are sold through Ticketmaster for shows in the Gran Sala (Great Hall) or through the theatre's ticket office. }} * {{do | name=Santa Lucía Riverwalk | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.67178 | long=-100.3025 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q936165 | content=An artificial river with a wide walkway, running 2.5-km (1.5-mi) between the Mexican History Museum and Parque Fundidora. Pontoon boats glide along the route giving interpretive local history tours and giving you plenty of photo opportunities. En route, you'll find a pleasant sidewalk bar and restaurant, ''Las Tenerías'', where Argentinian food can be enjoyed with a few drinks and occasional live music. }} [[File:MTY-InteriorPalacioMunicipal.jpg|thumb|Atrium of Monterrey City Hall]] * '''Ride a Bike''': Monterrey is not a particularly bike-friendly city, but the Parque Fundidora is ''very'' bike friendly with wide, paved pathways and rental bikes available. You could also rent a bike and venture out on your own, or you could join an organized bike tour and see the downtown area in the company of other 2-wheel friends. Rentals and tours are both available from '''BCPK Bike Shop'''. Tours ride through the downtown area starting at 7pm. Most tours are in Spanish, but the Monday bike tours are in English. ** {{do | name=BCPK Bike Shop | alt= | url=https://www.bcpk.com.mx | email=ventas@bcpk.com.mx | address=C. Hidalgo Ote. 437, Centro | lat=25.666567 | long=-100.312178 | directions=between Sheraton and Gran Ancira hotels | phone=+52 81 83 40 42 50 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 11:30 - 20:00, closed Sunday | price= | lastedit=2022-11-25 | content=Full range of bike services, repairs, sales, rentals. }} * '''Dance''' ** {{do | name=Palacio Municipal | alt=City Hall | address=Zaragoza s/n | lat=25.66509044357398 | long=-100.31075717457041 | directions=end of Macroplaza | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Sunday mornings at 11am and Thursday evenings at 18:30 the courtyard atrium of Monterrey's City Hall transforms into a spacious dance floor. The city provides an orchestra and the public is invited to come dance to big band sounds. While there, you can gaze up at the multi-level series of [[Mexican muralism|murals]] representing Monterrey's ever-changing political environment, with colonial imperialists on the lowest tier, the [[Mexican War of Independence]] on the second level up, and more recent events along the third level. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Centro Comercial Morelos | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.66744 | long=-100.31333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | content=The real heart of the Zona Rosa. A stretch of 6 blocks of Morelos street is closed to vehicle traffic and has become a popular pedestrian shopping arcade. It's a great place for people watching, especially on Sunday afternoons when families flock to downtown. }} [[File:MTY-callejon.jpg|thumb|Callejon Cultural, Sundays in Barrio Antiguo]] * {{buy | name=Callejón Cultural | alt= | url= | email= | address=C. Mina (and several other streets), Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.665606 | long=-100.306627 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8340-8093 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Every Sunday, Mina street is closed to make room for a pedestrian swap meet. Stretching from Padre Jardón to Padre Mier, you can walk and enjoy a vegan snack or a glass of fresh pulque while browsing through antiques, local artwork, handcrafts, and used books, among a myriad of hidden treasures. Street entertainers and strolling food vendors round out the crowd. Vendors also set up along Morelos. Several antique shops are also located on Padre Jardon, just in case the vendors set up on the street don't have enough things you don't need. }} * {{buy | name=Carapan | alt= | url=http://carapan.com.mx | email= | address=Hidalgo Oriente 305 | lat=25.666814 | long=-100.313668 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8345 4422 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10:00-18:00 closed Sunday | price= | lastedit=2024-05-16 | content=In business at the same location for more than 70 years, this Monterrey popular art gallery and shop is one of the top 5 galleries for high-end [[Mexican artesanias|artesanias]]. The best works from Mexico's top craftsmen in all genres and all regions are represented. You can find authentic black pottery from Oaxaca, Paquime style pottery from Mata Ortiz in Chihuahua, a huge selection of outstanding alebrijes from Michoacan, elaborate trees of life from Metepec and hundreds of similar items. This shop is a rare gem for the traveler who wants to take home a gallery-quality piece of artesania. }} * {{buy | name=Plaza de la Tecnologia | alt= | url=https://plazadelatecnologia.com/ | email= | address=Av. Benito Juárez 101, Centro | lat=25.667698 | long=-100.316177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-22 | content=An amazing warren of crowded aisles full of vendors selling cell phones, batteries, cases, laptops, electronic gadgets and some dirt cheap imports of dubious provenance. Got a cracked screen? You can get it fixed here while you wait. Need a charger? You got it! Hundreds of vendors. }} ==Eat== ===Street food=== [[File:MTY-HotDog.jpg|thumb|Hot dog stand in Barrio Antiguo]] You can find street food everywhere in el Centro. Near the central bus station, there are some vendors as you walk towards the nearby Soriana hiper. There is a {{marker | type=eat | name=food stall | lat= 25.6873353| long=-100.3217133 }} with delicious food, for example a gringa for M$40 (March 2022). It's the last food stall on the street C. Julián Villagrán between the 7-eleven and Michoacana. There is also {{marker | type=eat | name=street food| lat= 25.6763021| long=-100.3162513 }} in the middle of the centro, for example at Calle Aramberri / Calle Juan Méndez Nte with a gordita for M$10 (March 2022) during day-time. At the end of Morelos in the Zona Rosa, there are several street food vendors as you walk up Hidalgo (away from Macroplaza). Some are there during the day, more open up at night. In Barrio Antiguo, dozens of street food vendors set up on street corners. They aren't out during the day, but when the party crowds come out at night, the food vendors are everywhere. Don't pass by the hot dog vendors thinking that hot dogs are too ordinary. A Mexican hot dog starts with a fatter than normal frankfurter, wrapped in bacon and then grilled over charcoal. Top it off with a hearty, thick homemade salsa and you are enjoying some fine late night munchies! ===Budget=== {{infobox|Ghosts of Arramberri|Fans of the paranormal will revel in having lunch at Casa de Arramberri. Today the historic house is home to a hamburger restaurant but in 1933 it was a private home owned by a wealthy family that was brutally murdered by thieves looking for treasure. Police investigators found an eye witness: the family's pet parrot, who kept repeating, "No me matas, Gabriel!" (Don't kill me, Gabriel.) The owner's nephew, Gabriel, confessed to the crime. He and his accomplices were driven out to the desert by the police, who released the trio and then opened fire on them as they walked away. Justice was swift and true, but the spirits of the dead women are said to continue haunting the house to this day. }} * {{eat | name=Casa de Arramberri | address=C. Aramberri 1026 | lat=25.67534994583761 | long=-100.30535641939807 | lastedit=2025-05-22 | content=Hamburgers and french fries take backstage to morbid displays commemmorating the building's history as site of one of Monterrey's most grisly murders. }} ====Around Obispado==== * {{eat | name=Tacos El Compadre | alt=Tacos El Muerto | address=Nicolas Bravo s/n, Maria Luisa | lat=25.677661530996623 | long=-100.33351187146565 | directions=across the street from Panteon El Carmen (El Carmen Cemetery) | phone= | lastedit=2025-05-12 | price=M$40+ | content=Basic street taco stand favored by locals for more than 50 years. Recommended by the ''Michelin Guide''. Tortillas are lightly coated in oil and toasted before being stuffed with your choice of fillings including picadillo, ham, guisado con chile rojo, or the specialty of the house (or shack, as the case may be): cabeza de res (steamed cow's head). }} * {{eat | name=Tacos Doña Mary La Gritona | alt= | address=Av. Francisco Madero s/n | lat=25.686305093133537 | long=-100.33521666169263 | directions=Block and a half from Edison Metro station | phone=+52 81 1277 7280 | lastedit=2025-05-12 | hours=Daily 07:00 - 14:00 | price=M$40+ | content=Another street taco stand recommended by the ''Michelin Guide'' whose editors praised the handmade tortillas and the variety of salsas and garnishes. Michelin recommends the tacos de barbacoa. }} ====Around the central bus station==== * {{eat | name=Café Sevilla| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 25.6869217| long=-100.3217448| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03 | content=A simple traditional restaurant with delicious main dishes for about M$79. They serve for example ''machacado'', a northern Mexican dish for M$65, and chilaquiles.}} * {{eat | name= Restaurant Villace| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 25.6878172| long=-100.3221069| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=You get several tasty dishes which you may not have heard about before like ''entomatadas'', ''albondigas'', ''chile relleno'', ''tacos dorados'' and ''chilaques''. Prices are around M$75 (March 2022).}} * {{eat | name= Comida Casera La Mazatleca| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 25.6878574| long=-100.3215865| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=Home cooking restaurant with tasty Mexican dishes for M$70-75 (March 2022).}} * {{eat | name=Shang Hai| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 25.6869311| long=-100.3220727| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=Simple Chinese restaurant with tasty dishes with one kind of meat for M$70 (March 2022).}} * {{eat | name=Doña Tota | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.686784 | long=-100.319045 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=You get 2 gorditas, a rather small portion of rice and beans and a drink for M$49 (March 2022). Locations throughout Monterrey, including one inside the central bus station, one in Plaza Mexico and another in Interplaza. }} ====in the Zona Rosa==== * {{eat | name=Taqueria Las Monjitas | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peatonal Morelos 474, Centro | lat=25.66734788424789 | long=-100.31276643297203 | directions= | phone= | hours= | price= | content=More famous for its monastery appearance and waitresses dressed as nuns than it is for its food, which is generally basic and a bit greasy, but cheap and filling. }} * {{eat | name=Mi Tierra | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peatonal Morelos, Centro | lat=25.667413 | long=-100.313131 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Unpretentious casual cafe with good food and friendly service. One of the consistently best options along the pedestrian shopping area of Morelos (Zona Rosa). Two locations. }} * '''Interplaza Food Court''' Peatonal Morelos at Av. Benito Juarez - levels 2 and 3, dozens of fast food options * '''Plaza Mexico Food Court''' Peatonal Morelos - level 2, dozens of fast food options ====In Barrio Antiguo==== * {{eat | name=Mercado Barrio Antiguo | alt= | url=http://mercadobarrioantiguo.com/ | email= | address=Morelos 837, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.666845 | long=-100.308086 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 08:00 - 22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-25 | content=Large, modern indoor food court with everything from Texas barbecue to Korean hot dogs, Mexican food, pizza, coffee, and gelato. }} ===Mid-range=== [[File:MTY-LaChunga.jpg|thumb|La Chunga restaurant in Barrio Antiguo]] * {{eat | name=Sanborns | alt= | url=https://www.sanborns.com.mx/c/restaurante/ | email= | address=Mariano Escobedo Sur 920 | lat=25.667034 | long=-100.312185 | directions=in the pedestrian-only shopping area of Morelos (Zona Rosa) | phone=+52 81 8343 1834 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Traditional Mexican fare served in a clean, modern dining room. Pleasant atmosphere with waitresses in traditional Mexican dresses. Cafeteria counter, bakery, and candy counter. }} * {{eat | name=Cafeteria Gaby | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/CafeteriaGaby/ | email=cafeteriagaby@yahoo.com.mx | address=814 Calle Hermenegildo Galeana Sur | lat=25.66819 | long=-100.31409 | directions=in the Morelos shopping plaza | phone=+52 81 8344 1898 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 07:30-21:00; Su 08:00-20:00 | price= | lastedit=2020-12-14 | content=Cafeteria, family-style restaurant, coffee shop. Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Connected to Panaderia Nopal (known for their gigantic donuts). Two minute walk from Padre Mier metrorrey station. }} * {{eat | name=Ianilli's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dr J.M. Coss 1221 | lat=25.665022 | long=-100.308817 | directions=behind the MARCO | phone=+52 81 8342 7200 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Classic Italian cuisine served in a colonial era building. Classy dining room with rough stone walls, old tile floors and rustic beam ceilings. Oddly enough, they have a life-size [[Sculptures}sculpture]] of a horse in the middle of the dining room with a lamp sticking out of its head. Some things are too weird to be made up. }} [[File:MTYMadreOaxaca.jpg|thumb|Madre Oaxaca restaurant in Barrio Antiguo]] * {{eat | name=Madre Oaxaca | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Padre Raymundo Jardon 814 | lat=25.665237 | long=-100.308001 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8342 7200 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Elegant atmosphere specializing in dishes from the Oaxaca region (the black mole is delicious!). }} * {{eat | name=La Casa del Maiz | alt= | url= | email= | address=José Mariano Abasolo 870, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.665894740813886 | long=-100.307510546477 | phone= | hours=Daily 08:00-22:00 | content=Traditional central Mexican dishes. Akbal Lounge, upstairs, is a good place to drink. }} [[File:MTY-PozoleQuesadillaAbuela.jpg|thumb|Pozole at Quesadilla de la Abuela in Monterrey]] * {{eat | name=Me Muero de Hambre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mina 103 | lat=25.666314 | long=-100.306265 | directions=corner of Morelos | phone=+52 81 8345 0538 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 12:30-23:00 (until 02:00 on Thursday and Friday) | price= | lastedit=2022-11-21 | content=Fun multi-level casual eatery with pizza, sandwiches, tacos (on different floors). If you don't like the food on one level, go upstairs to the next. }} * {{eat | name=Fonda el Limoncito | alt= | url= | email= | address=Guillermo Prieto 938 | lat=25.664112 | long=-100.307597 | directions=in Barrio Antiguo, between Mina and Montemayor | phone=+52 833 403 1377 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00 - 16:00 (open until 23:00 Friday and Saturday) | price= | lastedit=2022-11-21 | content=Delicious traditional Mexican favorites served in a delightful colonial era building with thick stone walls. The chilaquiles are excellent! }} * {{eat | name=Govinda | alt= | url= | email= | address=Juan Ignacio Ramón 820, Centro | lat=25.670741 | long=-100.307229 | directions=near Mexican History Museum | phone=+52 81 1944 6324 | tollfree= | hours=12:00 - 17:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-25 | content=Vegetarian restaurant serving a buffet lunch. }} * {{eat | name=La Chunga | alt= | url= | email= | address=Morelos 958, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.666388 | long=-100.306459 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8344 9703 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 12:00 - 1:00 (til 02:00 on Friday and Saturday) | price= | lastedit=2022-11-25 | content=Casual sidewalk cafe with tacos, burgers, fish, grilled meats. Indoor dining rooms as well. }} * {{eat | name=Quesadillas de la Abuela | alt= | url=https://www.quesadillasdelaabuela.com/ | email= | address=Morelos 1024, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.666223 | long=-100.305841 | directions= | phone=+52 81 83433787 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00 - 16:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=Casual sidewalk cafe with a small indoor dining room. Traditional Mexican cuisine such as, well, quesadillas. }} * {{eat | name=Botanero Moritas | alt= | url=http://botaneromoritas.com | email= | address=Juan Ramón 852 Ote., Centro | lat=25.670351 | long=-100.30686 | directions=behind MUNE museum | phone=+52 81 8340 2036 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 13:00 - 00:00 (01:00 Friday and Saturday) | price= | lastedit=2022-11-30 | content=Classic cantina established in 1939, extremely clean with great ambience, friendly service, and some of the best traditional northeast Mexican cuisine in town. Tacos are distinctive with darker coloring and rich flavors. }} * {{eat | name=La Divina | alt= | url=http://www.ladivinamonterrey.com/ | email= | address=C. Diego de Montemayor 507 Sur, Centro | lat=25.671330 | long=-100.305806 | directions=bright blue building directly behind Mexican History Museum | phone=+52 81 80402278 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 12:30 - 00:00 (til 18:00 Sunday) | price= | lastedit=2022-11-30 | content=Traditional Mexican cuisine with an excellent terrace upstairs with view of the Paseo Santa Lucia. If something seems unique or unfamiliar, try it! The idea of noodle tacos seemed strange to me, but they were delicious! (So was the cajeta flan with nuts). Delicious! }} * {{eat | name=Los Huastecos | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/loshuastecosrestaurant/ | email= | address=Av Paseo de los Leones 2512 | lat=25.71434634524121 | long=-100.3799367978378 | directions= | phone=+52 8130656238 | tollfree= | hours=10ː30 - 21ː00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=Northern Mexican fare. Did somebody say skirt steak and frijoles? }} ===Splurge=== [[File:MTY-CabritoElRey.jpg|thumb|Kid goats roasting over hot coals at El Rey del Cabrito in Monterrey]] * {{eat | name=El Rey del Cabrito | alt= | url=http://www.elreydelcabrito.com.mx | email= | address=Av. Constitucion 817 | lat=25.664496 | long=-100.3091 | directions=corner of Zuazua, 1 block from MARCO museum | phone=+52 81 8345 3232 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-24 | content=One of the most famous restaurants in all of Northern Mexico, serving authentic regional cuisine, especially cabrito al pastor but there are options like steak arrachera for those who don't want to eat goat. }} * {{eat | name=Jabalina | address=Padre Meir 859 | lat=25.667602630988426 | long=-100.30806838936815 | phone=+52 812 572 2060 | hours=M-Th 13:00-01:00, F-Sa 13:00-02:00 | price=M$300 | lastedit=2024-01-01 | content=Exquisite northeastern Mexican regional cuisine with creative cocktails and a lively outdoor terrace dining area or a quieter inside dining room. Recommend the picaña tacos. }} * {{eat | name=Neuquén | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dr. Coss 659 Sur | lat=25.669951 | long=-100.308071 | directions=near Santa Lucia (Museo de Historia Mexicana) | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 12:30-00:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=Delicious Argentinian meat, empanadas (stuffed bread), and irreverent pizzas, among other heavily flavored food alternatives; enjoy a relaxing atmosphere. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurante San Carlos | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av. Morones Prieto 2803 Pte | lat=25.666811 | long=-100.341735 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8344 4114 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 07:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=Good cabrito and beef. }} * {{eat | name=Feelgrow | alt= | url=https://www.feelgrow.com/ | email=recepcion@feelgrow.com | address=Jose Ma Coss 1027 Sur | lat=25.666489 | long=-100.308609 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8345 0103 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-20 | content=Comfortably casual restaurant with a spacious outdoor dining area. The food is a mix of classic Mexican dishes with favorite Italian and American dishes. Open for breakfast (and the chilaquiles are recommended!). }} * {{eat | name=Muelle de al Lado | alt= | url=https://muelledeallado.com/ | email= | address=Av. Juarez 1102 (or Constitucion 1002) | lat=25.666189 | long=-100.315736 | directions=inside Pabellon M, planta baja | phone=+52 81 2169 3233 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 12:00 - 20:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-21 | content=Monterrey isn't known for its seafood, but this popular restaurant is known for its fresh fish. Try the seafood soup! Additional locations in San Pedro and San Jeronimo. }} ==Drink== The east side of Macroplaza constitutes '''Barrio Antiguo''' (Old Town). At night, you will find plenty of bars with live music that stay open until early in the morning. Keep an eye out for people handing out "No Cover" passes on the street, as well as flyers advertising events and special offers (example: 2x1 on bottles before midnight, girls 50% off cover fee) at the different nightclubs. ===Barrio Antiguo=== [[File:MTY-OvejaNegra.jpg|thumb|La Oveja Negra is one of several bars focusing on local craft beer.]] * {{drink | name=Almacen 42 | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle de Morelos 852, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.666428 | long=-100.308247 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=An oasis of local craft beers awaits the thirsty traveler. Funky shipping container style, live music on weekends, and an assortment of pizza and sandwiches. }} * {{drink | name=Café Iguana | alt= | url=http://www.cafeiguana.com.mx/ | email= | address=Calle Diego De Montemayor 927 | lat=25.666783 | long=-100.307319 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8343 0822 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Alternative bar with a relaxed atmosphere and live music. }} * {{drink | name=Café Trece Lunas | alt= | url=http://cafe13lunas.50webs.com/menu.html | email= | address=José Mariano Abasolo 876 | lat=25.665600 | long=-100.308043 | directions=between Diego de Montemayor and Dr. Coss | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Relaxing restaurant-bar with a unique atmosphere, decorated with hand-painted furniture and scribbled walls. }} * {{drink | name=McMullens Pub | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Diego de Montemayor, 843, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.667742 | long=-100.306487 | directions= | phone=+52 8111000345 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-20 | content=Low-brow faux Irish pub. Lively club featuring mostly local bands. }} * {{drink | name=Escoces Pub | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Diego de Montemayor 808 | lat=25.668175 | long=-100.306669 | directions= | phone=+52 8183439700 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-20 | content=Eclectic faux Scottish pub featuring local bands and indie pop as well as stand-up comedy with open mic nights. No one under 18 admitted. }} * {{drink | name=La Tumba | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Padre Mier 827, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.66768 | long=-100.308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-20 | content=Formerly known for their Cuban sounds, the club died and was reborn in 2020 with an emphasis on rock. }} * {{drink | name=Astro | alt= | url= | email= | address=Diego de Montemayor 1114, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.665598 | long=-100.307281 | directions= | phone=+52 8110711802 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-20 | content=Popular dance club with a young audience, music is mostly reggaeton. }} [[File:MTYCuadroCoyotesCerveza.jpg|thumb|Munich Dunkle "Santa Lucia" at Cuadro Coyotes]] * {{drink | name=Akbal Lounge | alt= | url= | email= | address=José Mariano Abasolo 870, Centro | lat=25.665875 | long=-100.306824 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-20 | content=Funky, retro style bar with different types of live music. 80s one night, latin pop the next, reggaeton the night you wish you'd gone out of town. Comfortable atmosphere. }} * {{drink | name=Cuadro Coyote | alt= | url= | email= | address=Padre Raymundo Jardón 829, Centro | lat=25.66528 | long=-100.30829 | directions= | phone=+52 81 12313936 | tollfree= | hours=Tu W 17:00-23:00, F Sa 15:00-01:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-22 | content=24 taps of locally crafted beers, open outdoor patio area. }} * {{drink | name=La Oveja Negra | alt= | url=http://ovejanegra.com.mx/ | email= | address=Morelos 924, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.666470 | long=-100.306627 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 15:00 - 01:30, closed Monday | price= | lastedit=2022-11-25 | content=Lots of local craft beers including stout on a nitro tap. Usual carne asada style meats, though the German bratwursts are a nice deviation. }} * {{drink | name=Malecón Habana | alt= | url= | email= | address=Juan Ignacio Ramón 1010, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.670384 | long=-100.305501 | directions= | phone=+52 81 1942 2579 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 18:00 - 00:00, closed M | price= | lastedit=2025-02-03 | content=Cuban food, live Cuban music, and drinks imported from Cuba (including Havana Club rum and Bucanero beer). }} ===Centro (not Barrio Antiguo)=== * {{drink | name=Metapatio | alt= | url= | email= | address=Melchor Ocampo 222, Centro | lat=25.666599 | long=-100.317747 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8258 0090 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Large, open-air festival-style party hall with local craft beers, light food, occasional live music, but usually a DJ spinning the tunes. Convenient to hotels near the Macroplaza and Pabellon M. }} * {{drink | name=Ragnarok | alt= | url= | email= | address=C. Diego de Montemayor 402, Centro | lat=25.678208 | long=-100.304544 | directions= | phone=+52 8123565756 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 12:00 - 00:00, F-Sa 12:00 - 01:00, Su 12:00 - 23:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-05-23 | content=Viking-themed bar draws a young crowd who come to get their mugs of mead. }} * {{drink | name=Cerveceria Obelisco | alt= | url= | email= | address=Martín de Zavala 839, Centro | lat=25.688267 | long=-100.330608 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Th 09:00 - 23:30, Sa 15:30 - 01:00, Su-M closed | price= | lastedit=2024-10-23 | content=Microbrewery with a taproom where you can taste 6-7 styles of beer, including some unusual seasonals including Belgian saisons. No food available (not a brewpub). }} * {{drink | name=Cerveceria Fausto | alt= | url=http://cerveceriafausto.com.mx/ | email= | address=Jordan 1144, Mitras Centro | lat=25.688533 | long=-100.340305 | directions=Metro to Edison, the brewery is near Av. Francisco Madero | phone=+52 81 3232 4079 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 16:00 - 23:00, F-Su 13:00 - 23:00 | price=M$200 | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content=Hip craft brewery with a large outdoor beer garden under the Metro tracks. Beers are much better than most craft breweries in the region because the brewery has lagering facilities and can produce a wider range of beers with cleaner flavor profiles. Some of the best are their dopplebock and a schwartzbier. Dogs are allowed. Occasional live music. Food trucks on site (particularly on weekends). }} ===Coffee=== Whether it's a morning necessity, or an alternative to alcoholic beverages, coffee is increasingly becoming a social drink of choice. Monterrey is blessed with many independent coffee houses that offer a refreshing change of pace from over-marketed ubiquitous coffee chains. * {{drink | name=Barrio Galeria y Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Diego de Montemayor 902 | lat=25.664978 | long=-100.308045 | directions= | phone=+52 81 28806929 | tollfree= | hours=14ː00 - 20ː00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Terrace cafe with board games, coffee drinks, baked goods. Quiet and serene when special events are not taking place. }} * {{drink | name=Monstera The Coffee Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Morelos 939 | lat=25.666511 | long=-100.306908 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10ː00 - 21ː00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Small, comfortable, funky place in the heart of Barrio Antiguo. Good coffee, a range of teas, and even some craft beers. }} * {{drink | name=Roland Coffee Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mina 923, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.666632 | long=-100.306431 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09ː00 - 22ː00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Cool place, kind of retro with vinyl records on the wall etc., but they play good music, serve good coffee, and have full meals (not just bakery items like many coffee shops in the neighborhood). }} * {{drink | name=Libros Cafe y Detalles | alt= | url= | email= | address=J. Ma. Morelos 949-991, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.666469 | long=-100.306553 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09ː00 - 22ː00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Book stores and cafe go together like icing on a cake. Eclectic selection of books, a great upstairs balcony for quiet discrete encounters, and full breakfasts available (not to mention some delicious coffee drinks). Live music outdoors on weekends. }} * {{drink | name=Tierra Libre | alt= | url=http://tierralibre.com/ | email= | address=Matamoros 929, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.668336 | long=-100.306119 | directions= | phone=+52 81 2402 0572 | tollfree= | hours=13ː00 - 22ː00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Great ambience, quiet, coffee drinks plus smoothies, vegetarian food options. }} * {{drink | name=Black Coffee | alt= | url= | email= | address=C. Diego de Montemayor 659, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.669670 | long=-100.306505 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09ː00 - 19ː00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Variety of coffee drinks including cold brew, homemade baked goods. The paninis are a good lunch option. Passionate staff who love to talk about coffee. }} * {{drink | name=Cafe Belmonte Bar | alt= | url=https://belmontemonterrey.tumblr.com/ | email= | address=Ignacio Allende 895, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.670027 | long=-100.307271 | directions= | phone=+52 812 721 6038 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 09:00 - 00:00, Su 09:00 - 17:00, closed M | price= | lastedit=2024-05-23 | content=Cozy rustic coffee shop with great coffee drinks and an eclectic mix of international dishes for breakfast or lunch. Try the German breakfast platter with wurst and spaetzle, or the paninis for lunch. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ====Barrio Antiguo==== * {{sleep | name=Ikali Hostel | alt= | url= | email= | address=José María Morelos 1017, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.666419 | long=-100.306159 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8342 2151 | tollfree= | checkin=15ː00 | checkout=12ː00 | price=M$700 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Clean rooms in a popular part of Barrio Antiguo. Bathrooms could use an update but the prices are very low so some sins are forgiven. }} * {{sleep | name=La Casa del Barrio | alt= | url=http://www.lacasadelbarrio.com.mx/ | email= | address=Calle Diego De Montemayor 1227 | lat=25.664467 | long=-100.307789 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8344 1800 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Fantastic for backpackers, this affordable clean, comfortable hostel is a value. Prices can vary but see the website for details (in English & Spanish), which also has a reservation service. The hostel has shared rooms, showers and a cooking area. One of the most attractive thing about this hostel is the couple who own it — they're welcoming and very helpful. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Fundador | url=http://www.travelbymexico.com/leon/fundador/ | email= | address=802 Diego De Montemayor | lat=25.668099 | long=-100.307465 | directions=near Zaragoza subway station | phone=+52 81 8342 0121 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A clean, quiet, cheap, air-conditioned hotel in the heart of the Barrio Antiguo. }} * {{sleep | name=My Family in Monterrey Hostel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Diego de Montemayor 1221 | lat=25.664753 | long=-100.307334 | directions=2 blocks east of Palacio Municipal on Macroplaza | phone=+52 8132814568 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-20 | content=Backpacker hostel. Cheap single bunks, some private rooms, shared baths. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Lucia | alt= | url= | email= | address=C. Diego de Montemayor 728-1, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.668817 | long=-100.306734 | directions= | phone=+52 81 3080 2589 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=11:00 | price=M$300 | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal Hare Krishna | alt= | url=https://hare-krishna.mx/ | email= | address=José Mariano Abasolo 916, Barrio Antiguo | lat=25.6658544049184 | long=-100.30749369169538 | directions= | phone=+52 81 1498 6316 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$200 | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=Clean, inviting hostel with shared dorm rooms starting at M$200 (US$10) per night, making it a great value for the budget traveler. On-site vegetarian restaurant serving 3 meals per day. Food is Indian cuisine. 150 meter walk to Macroplaza. }} ====Bus station area==== *{{sleep | name= Hotel Victoria Monterrey| url= | email= | address=| lat= 25.6881853| long=-100.3227345| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=M$290/440 single/double with fan, M$600 with air conditioning | lastedit=2022-03 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Decent hotel. }} ====Parque Fundidora area==== * {{sleep | name=Smart Hotel Cintermex | alt= | url=http://www.smarthotel.com.mx/ | email= | address=Calle Gral. Carlos Salazar Ote. 2420, Obrera | lat=25.679937 | long=-100.289973 | directions= | phone=+52 81 26760305 | tollfree= | checkin=12ː00 | checkout=15ː00 | price=M$790 | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=Sparsely furnished barebones hotel in a modern building. Clean, very close to Parque Fundidora, and a great value for the area. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Hiǃ Fundidora | alt= | url=http://www.hoteleshi.com/fundidoraMonterrey | email= | address=Av. Francisco Madero 2925, Acero | lat=25.682819 | long=-100.283450 | directions=across the street from Parque Fundidora, near access gate 4 | phone=+52 81 47746060 | tollfree= | checkin=15ː00 | checkout=12ː00 | price=M$790 | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=New budget hotel near gate 4 for Parque Fundidora. Modern barebone facilities with low rates. }} ===Mid-range=== [[File:MTY-Krystal.jpg|thumb|Krystal Hotel Monterrey]] ====Macroplaza area==== * {{sleep | name=Gamma Gran Ancira Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.gammahoteles.com/en/hotels/gamma-monterrey-gran-hotel-ancira | email= | address=Ocampo 443 | lat=25.666231 | long=-100.311943 | directions= | phone=+52 4433108137 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=Historic landmark hotel with charm and grace. Somewhat small rooms but classy atmosphere. Outstanding Sunday brunch in the lobby. The 1910 bar is a classic downtown watering hole. Excellent location. }} * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Ambassador Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/monterrey-mexico/wyndham-monterrey-ambassador-centro/overview | email= | address=Miguel Hidalgo 310 Ote | lat=25.666339 | long=-100.313809 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8380-7000 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$1600 | lastedit=2025-05-12 | content=Spacious rooms in a full-service mid-range hotel, two blocks to Macroplaza. Free valet parking, excellent on-site restaurant. Formerly the Sheraton, but re-branded in 2025. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Monterrey Macroplaza | alt= | url=http://www.hotelmonterreymacroplaza.com.mx/ | email= | address=José María Morelos Oriente 574 | lat=25.66709248740602 | long=-100.31054221764154 | directions=On Zaragoza at Morelos | phone=+52 81 83806000 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Great location near the center of town. Clean, but a tiny bit "worn". Heated/indoor pool. Free garage parking. M$1200 for double room (small, but neat) with microwave, coffeemaker, free bottled water. Outstanding value. }} * {{sleep | name=iStay Hotel Centro | alt=formerly the Holiday Inn, and the Doubletree Rio | url=http://istay.com.mx | email= | address=Padre Mier 194 Pte | lat=25.66866618423042 | long=-100.3165815753124 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8228-6000 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=At the end of the Morelos shopping district, about 7 blocks from the Macroplaza. Very good rates, but rooms tend to be small and decor is a bit dated. Free indoor parking. }} * {{sleep | name=Crowne Plaza Monterrey | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/hotels/us/en/monterrey/mtypl/hoteldetail | email= | address=Av Constitución Oriente 300 | lat=25.664827 | long=-100.314255 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8316-6000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Large corporate-style hotel with large clean rooms, indoor swimming, 24-hour business center and more. Good location on very busy road, one block to Macroplaza. }} * {{sleep | name=Krystal Hotel Monterrey | alt= | url=https://www.krystal-monterrey.com/ | email=calidad.kmty@krystal-hotels.com | address=Corregidora 519 | lat=25.6667 | long=-100.3117 | directions=just west of the Macroplaza | phone=+52 83 19 09 00 | tollfree= |fax=| checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2020-12-15 | content=Amenities include indoor pool, restaurant, free Wi-Fi, supervised parking lot, valet parking. }} * {{sleep | name=Antarisuites Galerias | alt= | url=https://hotelantaris.com/galerias/?lang=en | email= | address=Av. Constitucion 1707 Pte. | lat=25.66870633511118 | long=-100.33448213631726 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8130-1818 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= Modern, new hotel on the feeder lanes of Constitucion, clean spacious, well equipped rooms with kitchenettes. Laundry, gym on site. }} * {{sleep | name=Fiesta Inn Monterrey Centro | alt= | url=http://www.fiestamericana.com | email= | address=Av. Pino Suarez 1001 | lat=25.684962733381948 | long=-100.31743942705221 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8150-2222 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= New mid-range hotel in the heart of Monterrey. }} * {{sleep | name=Plaza de Oro Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.hotelplazadeoro.com.mx/ | email= | address=Hidalgo 461 Pte | lat=25.669155 | long=-100.322045 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8345 1144 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Clean, comfortable, very modern rooms in a friendly, intimate small downtown hotel. Free indoor parking. Outstanding value. Morning noise can be irritating if you forget to close your second interior door (the restaurant is in the hotel's atrium). }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Kavia | alt= | url=https://www.hotelkaviamonterrey.com/ | email= | address=Oriente 531, entre Zaragoza y Ocampo, Centro | lat=25.665793 | long=-100.311342 | directions=50 m from Macroplaza, near Hotel Monterrey and Kalos | phone=+52 81 2530 6500 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$1400 | lastedit=2022-11-16 | content=Modern hotel with excellent location. 2 minute walk to MARCO museum, cathedral, Morelos (Zona Rosa), Barrio Antiguo. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Centralia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hidalgo 319 | lat=25.666991 | long=-100.313690 | directions= | phone=+52 811 665 5360 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-05-23 | content=New moderate hotel near the Macroplaza. Rooms are clean, air conditioned, and comfortably furnished. On-site restaurant serves a comida corrida menu weekdays from 12-4. }} * {{sleep | name=Santa Rosa Suites | alt= | url=http://santa-rosa-suites.hoteles-en-monterrey.com/en/ | email= | address=Mariano Escobedo 930 | lat=25.666689 | long=-100.312295 | directions=on Plaza Hidalgo, next to Krystal Hotel, one block to Macroplaza | phone=+52 81 8342-4200 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Upscale rooms and often very good weekend rates. Clubby restaurant and lounge. Limited parking in a tight outdoor lot. Excellent location. }} ====Parque Fundidora area==== * {{sleep | name=Antaris Cintermex | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av Fundidora 400, Obrera | lat=25.677731 | long=-100.289424 | directions=across the street from Cintermex and Parque Fundidora gate | phone=+52 81 8318 0444 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=Modern, clean hotel, convenient to Parque Fundidora and Cintermex. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express Fundidora | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av Fundidora 200, Obrera | lat=25.677000 | long=-100.288583 | directions= | phone=+52 8136747700 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=New high-rise hotel adjacent to Parque Fundidora. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Safi Royal Luxury Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.safihotel.com | email= | address=Av. Pino Suarez 444 Sur | lat=25.673580337543783 | long=-100.31942264795582 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8100-7000 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= Glitzy and pretentious, but good service, central location, and spacious rooms at affordable prices make it a perennial favorite for downtown. }} * {{sleep | name=Fiesta Americana Monterrey Pabellon M | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av. Juarez 1102 , Col. Centro | lat=25.665494 | long=-100.316766 | directions= | phone=+52 443 310 81 37 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=M$2000 | lastedit=2022-10-20 | content=Upscale hotel in a new 50-story mixed use high-rise at the Pabellon (mall and arena complex). Comfortable rooms with outstanding views, full-service. 1596 restaurant is good, and there are many more dining options in the connected mall. }} ==Connect== Broadband internet is ubiquitous and all major hotels and restaurants offer free WiFi service. Cell reception is excellent throughout the area with 5G coverage in all parts of the city. See [[Monterrey#Connect|main article]] for details. {{guidedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Monterrey}} {{geo|25.6670|-100.3084}} a9r0yf87mrh4seghs8byot9wybypn41 0 23083 5288967 5244194 2026-06-07T03:34:11Z Lazarus1255 2236161 /* Volunteer activities */ New url 5288967 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Moshi banner.jpg}} '''Moshi''' is a municipality in [[Northeast Tanzania]], the mountain region of [[Tanzania]]. ==Understand== Moshi is home to three main cultural groups: the Chagga, the Maasai and Pare. However, most Maasai are employed as watchmen or are selling traditional medicines, and their homeland is further north. The Pare are from the Pare Mountains from about 50 km on the way to Dar es Salaam. ==Talk== Usually you will be able to find people with a decent command of English, but people appreciate it if you are able to use a bit of the native language, [[Swahili phrasebook|Swahili]]. ==Get in== To get into Tanzania you must have a visa. This can be done in your home country by finding an embassy or consulate, or when you arrive in the airport or at a border crossing. Don't over-economise on bus travel, since the cheaper companies often have poor safety standards, and you don't want to risk having a drunk driver. This is a very serious warning! ===By plane=== *'''Kilimanjaro International Airport''' ({{IATA|JRO}}) is approx 30 min from Moshi and taxis and buses are available from each. An approximate cost would be TSh 60,000, though this all depends on your bargaining skills! Flights come from various non-domestic destinations, and this is how most tourists arrive. Direct flights from Amsterdam daily and direct from Doha (Qatar) *Flying to Dar es Salaam ({{IATA|DAR}}) is also an option. A little bit farther from Moshi than Kili Airport, but it will almost certainly be cheaper. You'll need to catch a bus from Dar to Moshi--probably about 7 hours. *Flying into [[Nairobi]], Kenya ({{IATA|NBO}}) is significantly less expensive than Kilimanjaro, however you will need a Kenyan transit visa (available on arrival) and it is an 8-hour bus ride to Moshi (about US$20 for a single trip). ===By bus=== Buses arrive in Moshi from all of the main cities in Tanzania, and this is the cheapest way to travel. '''Dar Express''' and '''Kilimanjaro''' bus lines run from Dar es Salaam to Moshi (and beyond/vice versa) at a cost of TSh 20,000 one way and takes around 8 hours. '''Hood''' and '''Abood''' go to [[Morogoro]] for TSh 13,000. Buses also go to [[Arusha]], [[Mwanza]], [[Tanga]], [[Mbeya]], [[Dodoma]] and [[Nairobi]]. All prices are worth bargaining for — locals will get massively lower prices! The bus station is extremely chaotic, however this can be used to your advantage as it means many drivers are vying for your fare. === By train === Twice-weekly passenger trains started running from [[Dar es Salaam]] in late 2019. While faster and more comfortable then buses, delays and cancellations have plagued the Tanzanian rail network for years. Make sure to check at the railway station if the train is running. There are passenger trains from [[Arusha]]: 86 km by rail in two hours, 4 times a week. * {{go | name=Moshi railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-3.351208 | long=37.346022 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-12-07 | content= }} ==Get around== {{Mapframe|-3.35145|37.33880|zoom=15}} No need to do anything other than walk within the city, though it is '''strongly''' advised not to walk around at night, for your own safety. There are plenty of taxis. As always, negotiate a price before getting in (most fares shouldn't cost more than a couple of dollars). It's a good idea to get the mobile phone number of one for emergencies. Always agree a price before you get in the car. Local transport around Kilimanjaro can be easy if you take local buses called "Daladalas". They are 16-seater minibuses which usually transport about 30 people and/or children and livestock at any given time. Daladalas can be used to go within Moshi or to the surrounding villages, for instance Machame and Marangu, and are very cheap (less than a dollar). Listen to the conductor shouting the destination as they drive past, and feel free to shout your destination to him. They sometimes have stickers in the front window stating where they go to. Local transport should cost TSh 500-3000. It's not recommended to travel by daladala or by taxi up muddy tracks if it's been raining very hard. It's also essential to check that the vehicle is in a reasonable state of repair and that the driver is sober. Motorcyle taxis (Boda bodas) are numerous but are the most dangerous way to travel. Drivers are legally required to provide a helmet, just make sure that the strap is working. Some drivers are quite reckless and there have been reports of drivers taking passengers to remote areas to rob/rape. To hire your own Land Cruiser and driver is around TSh 100,000 a day. To hire your own motorcycle is around TSh 35,000 per day, or less if rented for a week or more. ==See== *The market can be fun to visit, even if you're not interested in buying anything. *There are many religious institutions, most notably the mosque near the center of town. *Visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery opposite the Magistrate's Court. *Visit the former German administration office between Kilimanjaro Co-operative Bank and BP petrol station on Mawenzi Road/Nyerere Road. You can still see the metal pillar which was used for hanging convicted people. There are several smaller communities outside of the main town of Moshi that are worth taking a look around. *Following Kibo Road north out of Moshi you will come to the YMCA and will be in '''Shantytown''', which is an area of relative wealth. Several restaurants are located out here as well as a few hostels and hotels. *Following Station Road out of Moshi to the east you will be in '''Majengo''', a significantly worse off area than main Moshi. *Following Boma Road out of town to the west you will be in '''Soweto''', which has many more expensive homes and is also home base for a large European volunteer organization. There is the FalconCrest Hotel and Pub, as well as the Scorpion Pub for a night out. There is a good market near the Scorpion Pub. ==Do== *{{do | name=Give a Heart To Africa | url=http://www.giveahearttoafrica.org | email= | address=Moshi | lat= | long= | directions=Ushirika | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=NGO, vocational school for adult women. }} *{{do | name=Honey Badger Lodge and Safaris | url=http://www.honeybadgerlodge.com | email= | address=Msaranga | lat= | long= | directions=6 km out of town on the way to Dar Es Salaam, turn right at Msaranga petrol station | phone=+255 787551190 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24 hours | price= | content=A hotel, campsite, lodge and safari company. A family run place with an excellent swimming pool, bar area and children's play area. They can organise all your local tours and safari anything ranging from a night of local drumming and food to climbing the mountain or seeing the national parks. }} ===Climbing and safaris=== Climbing [[Mount Kilimanjaro]] is the obvious reason for being in Moshi. '''Safari''' is also essential, and [[Ngorongoro Conservation Area]], [[Lake Manyara National Park]] and [[Arusha National Park]] are within a fairly easy distance. Tours can be arranged through several companies, and it is advisable to use common sense when finding a company. Your best bet is to ask other tourists who they used. Or, ask your accommodation for a referral to a safari company. Do not deal with a random person on the street; look for a real office! You can also book ahead of time but you will be spending a lot more. Otherwise, you can almost certainly bargain prices down, within reason. When you pay for safari most of it goes to cover park fees, lodging, food and gas. The guide gets little money, especially when working for a large organization; most of their income is from tips. Also, if you are traveling with a cook it is a good rule of thumb to tip them as well or to incorporate their wages into the overall tip. For example, on a 3-day safari an estimated tip would be US$50 for each, though if you're traveling with more people this amount is to be divided amongst everyone and if traveling for an extended period of time it would be recommended to tip more. A well paid guide is a happy guide, who will try their hardest and give you the best experience. ===Other activities=== *'''Cultural trips to Maasai''' villages are very worthwhile and informative, but be aware most of the villages are not authentic. *'''Hiring a Local Guide''' is a fantastic and inexpensive way to see the Moshi that you wouldn't see otherwise. Guides can be hired at virtually any hotel. *'''Day trips to Marangu Waterfalls''' are often fun, you can stand underneath the waterfall, even jump off one and go swimming. Day trips to Lake Nyumba ya Mungu can also be interesting, lots of local fishing culture, aloe vera plantations and sugar cane plantations. There is also a snake park and camel riding centre in nearby town [[Arusha]]. These can be arranged individually by taking a bus or organizing with a safari company. Also make sure that all employees at the safari-company you decide to go with get a good salary, it is better to pay more and be assured quick service with a possible car break down or other unforeseen situations. *'''Walking tours''' across the rice paddys make for a nice day and you can also visit the local forest to see some monkeys! These are usually arranged through a safari company but are significantly less expensive as you are only paying for a single guide. * Even if you aren't getting a bus, the bus station is worth visiting for its chaos. It is highly recommended to take a daladala just to be able to say you have, and no doubt you will have an adventure. *If wanting to just have a '''relaxing''' day in Moshi it is recommended to head to the '''Impala Hotel''' where you can relax by the lovely pool (in your bikini and whatnot without fear!) and also enjoy a meal pool side. The cost to hang out by the pool and to go swimming is TSh 3,000. Meals cost around TSh 5,000. *Another good place '''to go swimming''' is the '''YMCA''' located a bit north of town, and has a large, deep pool. *The '''Social Reality Tour''' is a 3 hours' walk with a social worker through deprived areas of Moshi, visiting people who are affected by HIV/AIDS. These individuals are happy that visitors are interested in them and the social worker can provide background information about the situation of HIV/AIDS in the region. You pay US$10 which will go 100% to support the HIV patients that you visit. The tour is an important income for the NGO KIWAKKUKI, allowing them to continue their home-based care program. [http://www.social-reality-tour.com]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. === Volunteer activities === Moshi is also home to several volunteer organizations though they tend to be very overpriced and badly managed. However, there are many opportunities to volunteer in orphanages, schools and women's centers without being connected to these organizations. '''Global Volunteer Programs Kilimanjaro(GVP)'''http://www.gvp-tanzania.org/Tel: {{dead link|December 2020}} +255 (0) 2727 54652 Mobile: +255 (0) 7543 91121, Email:f_masawe@hotmail.com. Global Volunteer Programs Kilimanjaro is a grassroots organization based in the town of Moshi in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania. It is committed to improving the lives of Tanzanians through a comprehensive program of volunteering projects tackling social, economic and environmental problems with an emphasis on education, healthcare, rural development and capacity building. As life-long residents of the community, the founders of the organization are well aware of the needs of the local population and, through GVP’s programs, focus on those needs with a dedication to excellence. * {{do | name=Light in Africa | alt= | url=http://www.lightinafrica.org/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A locally managed orphanage (separate for babies, girls and boys), school and dispensary. They have a very informative website, but be warned, you must be dedicated if you are to help out here! }} * '''Moyo Mmoja''' is a women's center open only to fellow women to volunteer. *'''Give a Heart To Africa''' (www.giveahearttoafrica.org) is a small NGO in Moshi operating a vocational school for adult women. They offer the women free education in English, business and computers and help some of them start their own business. This NGO is run solely by volunteers, and is a very hands on experience. Volunteers are welcome any time of year; no prior experience is necessary. * '''Hostel Foot Prince''' is run by the organisation '''[https://www.foot2afrika.org/ Foot2afrika]'''. They only charge for food, and accommodation while project volunteering is free. * {{do | name=TEATEM | alt= | url=http://www.teatem.org {{dead link|June 2020|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A non-government organization. They have volunteer placements dealing with education and marketing local companies available. Also fundraising help is needed for a planned computer training center and for a vocational training center. Visit their website for more details. }} * '''[http://www.world-unite.de World Unite!]'''; info@world-unite.de have been active in Moshi since 2005, placing volunteers and interns into a variety of NGOs, hospitals and government institutions. They offer support services such as arrangement of accommodation in shared houses or host families, residence permits, preparation & ground support at very affordable rates. World Unite are also running their own development projects where volunteers can participate, in cooperation with local and foreign NGOs, development organizations and private partners. Result of such a project in Moshi is the Kiwakkuki Social Reality Tour (http://www.social-reality-tour.com{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}), a no-profit tour for visitors to Moshi, supporting families affected by HIV through revenue generated by tourism. Short-term volunteering is possible, but generally World Unite! focus on volunteer placements with a duration of 2-12 months, and on individuals rather than groups. Being one of the bigger and better-run volunteering organizations in Tanzania, they also offer volunteering options in Zanzibar, Dar-es-Salaam, Ngorongoro and Lake Victoria, besides cultural travel options. ==Buy== Major banks ATMs in Moshi accept international credit and debit cards accredited with Master card, the plus logo, and Visa card. '''Stanbic Bank and Equity Bank have MasterCard/Visa ATMs'''. Make sure your card issuer is aware you are travelling in Tanzania as your card may be blocked for security measures. They all deal in local currency, the [[Tanzania#Money|Tanzanian shilling]]. To convert currencies there are several foreign exchange offices near the banks. As of August 2009, don't expect to be able to take US dollar traveller's cheques and change them to US cash in Moshi. All the banks in town and most forex offices refuse to do it. If you're desperate, the only place that would do it is Executive Change Bureau, on Boma Rd., but they charge 10% commission. If you're going to Moshi, better bring US cash, or verify in writing that the places you are planning to deal with will accept US traveller's cheques (and what the fee is, if any) if you plan to carry them. For souvenirs, Downtown Moshi is probably cheaper than the big 'out-of-town' places for tourists, which hideously overprice things. Even better, with a 15-minute walk from town on the Dar Road, you will find a community of artists who create the wood carvings and paintings that sell in town. They will sell direct to you at a far better price than can be found in shops. There are lots of fabric shops up and down the main street, as well as tourist shops selling carvings and paintings. If you do get hassled by street sellers, do not be afraid! Their only interest is to take you to a shop where you might buy something and they receive commission for taking you there (they are not the artists themselves!). Generally speaking there isn't a lot buy, but a lot to look at. If you've just been up Kili, the 'Just done it' t-shirts are probably worth a look! Or if you've spent a lot of time drinking, you might want to pick up a Safari or Kilimanjaro Lager t-shirt! Tanzanite is sold in several shops. * The market is fantastic, and should be thoroughly explored. It consists of many narrow alleyways selling fruit, vegetables, meat, dried fish, general household stuffs, tapes, clothes, and of course the cheapest souvenirs (A drum costing TSh 30,000 in the main streets would cost TSh 5,000 here). * There are several bookstores but most deal primarily with school and religious texts. There are many stationary shops with everything you could need. ===Malls & supermarkets=== * {{buy | name=Aleems Grocery Supermarket | alt= | url= | email= | address=Boma road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-1:30AM | price= | lastedit=2018-03-15 | content= }} * {{buy | name=New MDC Supermarket | alt= | url= | email= | address=Arusha Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=8AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2018-03-15 | content= }} ===Banks and ATMS=== * {{buy | name=Stanbic Bank | alt= | url= | email= | address=Boma Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=Has a Mastercard/Visa Card ATM. }} * {{buy | name=Equity Bank | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mawenzi Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=Has a Mastercard/Visa Card ATM. }} * {{buy | name=I&M Bank | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rindi Lane Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-14 | content=Has a Mastercard/Visa Card ATM. }} *'''Kenya Commercial Bank'''. Boma Road has a Mastercard/Visa Card ATM. * {{buy | name=Diamond Trust Bank DTB | alt= | url= | email= | address=Old moshi Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours atm. | price=no fee | lastedit=2023-08-19 | content=mastercard visa card atm. }} ==Eat== Most restaurants offer a variety of food and range in price from TSh 2000 to TSh 8000 for a meal. * {{eat | name=El Rancho Kilimanjaro Restaurant | alt=El Rancho Restaurant | url=https://www.facebook.com/erkrestaurant/ | email=erkiliorder@gmail.com | address=Ibra Line, Off Lema Road, Shanty Town | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+255 782 149 502 | tollfree=+255 272 755 115 | hours=11:00AM to 11:00PM - Monday to Sunday - Open 7 Days a Week | price= | lastedit=2019-07-15 | content=EL Rancho Kilimanjaro is an Indian Specialty Restaurant in Shanty Town, Moshi, Tanzania. The Restaurant provides healthy, delicious & tasty Indian Food. }} * {{eat | name=IndoItaliano | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-3.35536 | long=37.34140 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=In town opposite the Buffalo Hotel. Good pizza, nice balcony location for lunch or dinner, sometimes you might even see some white people working there, doing their practical training for a chef or a waiter. As the name suggests, in addition to the popular pizza and Italian food, there is also good Indian dishes. Beer and wine served. }} * {{eat | name=the Salzburger Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-3.35320 | long=37.33680 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Kenyatta Street. Somewhat like a steakhouse, decent food but limited menu. Restaurant has Volkswagen decor and waitresses wear leopard print outfits, quite interesting. }} * {{eat | name=Deli Chez | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-3.35315 | long=37.34076 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hill Street. Usually a lunch time destination but is open for dinner, a bit expensive, located on Hill Street. The menu is quite varied with Indian, Chinese in addition to pizza, burgers and American dishes. A good number of vegetarian choices. Ice cream and milkshakes. No alcohol available. Closed on Tuesdays. }} * {{eat | name=Coffee Shop | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-3.35328 | long=37.34093 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hill Street (in the center of town near Deli Chez). The favoured lunch time location for tourists, good soup, spaghetti, milkshakes, very fair prices, and near internet cafes; the coffee shop will also bake cakes on order (for birthdays and such). Closed on Sundays. }} * {{eat | name=Kilimanjaro Coffee Lounge | alt=formerly Tanzanian Coffee Lounge | url= | email= | address=Chagga Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The alternative lunch option, very good bagels and fruit & veggie plates, excellent smoothies. }} *{{eat | name=Union Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-3.35383 | long=37.33883 | directions=near NMB bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Run by KCNU - coffee growers cooperative, roasts coffee beans on premises. Espresso drinks, sandwiches, milk shakes, pizza, burgers, salads and breakfasts. Open 7 days/week. }} There are also many other nameless restaurants that serve as decent lunch spots, you should look for a busy restaurant, that's always a good sign. If wanting to try the local food ask for ugali (translates as stiff porridge, a bit bland but harmless) or "wali na maharage" (beans and rice). * {{eat | name=Pub Alberto | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-3.34762 | long=37.34356 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers BBQ at night inside the pub near the dance floor but it is a bit sketchy. }} Heading along the road of the banks and Immigration office there is '''Abba Ali's Hot Bread Shop''' that sells excellent bread, honey, doughnuts and other desserts, especially nice cakes. Opposite the bakery is Aleem's Grocer, a decent grocery store. A great place to buy groceries is at the local market, which can be found easily from the double roads or the alleyway by the Tanzanian Coffee Shop on Chagga St. Restaurants outside Moshi: * {{eat | name=Panda Chinese | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Off Lema Road in Shantytown. Run by the only Chinese family in Moshi, decent food, ideal for large groups, a favourite of tourists for dinner. }} * {{eat | name=Italian Passion | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near town | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Good wine, decent food, dinner. }} * {{eat | name=Impala Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Ideal for a Sunday afternoon of sitting by the pool and taking lunch. }} *{{eat | name=Honey Badger Lodge | alt=J & Ds restaurant | url=http://www.honeybadgerlodge.com | email= | address=Msaranga | lat= | long= | directions=6 km out of town towards Dar, turn right after Kiboroloni | phone=+255 787730235 | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price=US$1-12 | content=A relaxed restaurant bar which offers a fusion of quality Swahili food with international flair. Served the local way. Guests can dine with others or alone as they wish. You can call in ahead to book dinner from the set menu or request a special group BBQ. }} ==Drink== As Moshi is situated on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro it is largely populated by members of the Chagga tribe. Chaggas are known for their keen business sense, their warm hospitality and their love of a good drink, so getting a beer in Moshi is rarely much of a problem! In the daytime and early evening you can head to '''the Police mess''', '''The East Africa Bar''', '''the KNCU restaurant''' (up on the top floor of the KNCU building) or '''the Siesta inn''' (a 15-minute walk from the main street). All these places serve food so you can keep your stomach lined as you sip a few of the fine local beers (don't bother with European imports - they're no better than the local stuff, but considerably more expensive). Some of the '''local beers''' are Kilimanjaro, Safari and Tusker. The most common local liquor is Konyagi. * {{drink | name=Glacier | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A nice outdoors pub usually with local music nights. Mostly meant for group nights out to sit around the fire and a favourite spot for tourists. Located off Lema Road in Shantytown. }} * {{drink | name=Pub Alberto | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-3.34763 | long=37.34356 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=If you feel the need to keep the party going into the small hours then you'll need to make your way. Open until around 3:30AM, Pub Alberto enjoys a reputation as something of a seedy dive. Indeed, the dance floor is usually a writhing mass of tourists, local people having a good night out, and ladies of negotiable virtue touting for business! If you do go to Pub Alberto then leave your valuables at home and only take the money you'll need for a good night's drinking. It's not as bad as some people make out and as long as you're sensible you'll have a fantastic night! }} *{{drink | name=La Liga | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best and biggest night club in Moshi. It costs TSh 5000 to get in, beers and ciders are TSh 2500. Music is mostly European, but they play also local bongo flavour. Very popular place. Sundays are ladies' night, which means ladies don't have to pay entrance fee. }} *{{drink | name=Honey Badger Lodge | alt=Leila's Bar | url=http://www.honeybadgerlodge.com | email= | address=Msaranga | lat= | long= | directions=6km out of town on the road to Dar es Salaam, turn right at Msaranga petrol station | phone=+255 787730235 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=till late | price= | content=A spacious outdoor bar. You can relax and swim in the day and sit by the bar by night. }} * {{drink | name=Pamoja | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-3.35624 | long=37.34086 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Relaxed bar and hotspot for volunteers. }} ==Sleep== Be sure to avoid touts. If you are travelling as a couple, a good idea is for one person to sit in a lobby or restaurant with the bags, while the other scopes out rooms. You are likely to get a cheaper price without them, and not be targeted by sneaky touts that will raise the price US$5-10 for you for their commission. Often they follow you and stay outside signaling reception. ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Buffalo Hotel | url=http://www.transkibo.com/hotels/buffalo.htm {{dead link|October 2017|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+255 27 2751754 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$10-15/night | checkin= | checkout= | content=Cheap but decent. The price is TSh 15,000, 20,000, 25,000, or 30,000 depending on a room type. The hotel is safe and clean with decent food. }} * {{sleep | name=Camel Hotel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=TSh 23,000 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Next door to Kindoroko, rooms with a/c, clean bathroom, double bed. }} * {{sleep | name=Haria Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-3.35535 | long=37.34021 | directions= | phone=+255 762 358 795 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm TSh 10,000, double TSh 25,000 | content=Bright and large rooms with a beautiful roof top bar and restaurant. A popular hotel with volunteers. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostel Hoff | url=http://www.hostelhoff.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+255 787 225 908 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$15/night | checkin= | checkout= | content=Only Western style hostel in Moshi, run by an Irish woman. Very clean rooms, price includes dinner. Also provides links to local places if interested in volunteering without paying steep costs. Partnered with safari company Path to Africa. The hostel is named after David Hasselhoff. }} * {{sleep | name=The Keys Hotel | url=http://www.keys-hotel-tours.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+255 (27) 275 2250 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Rates are negotiable, staff are friendly, and they do great packages for climbing Kilimanjaro and safaris. Don't expect good service or wake-up calls, the receptionists might be sleeping themselves. }} * {{sleep | name=Kilimanjaro Backpackers | url=http://www.kilimanjarobackpackers.com/ {{dead link|August 2020|December 2020}} | email= | address=Double Rd near Chagga Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+255 27 2755159 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Single room is US$8 or TSh 14,000, double room costs US$15 or TSh 24,000 per night. Prices include breakfast | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2012-12-23 | content=Clean, simple, and cheap rooms. Avoid eating there. See [[talk:Moshi|discussion page]] for additional comments. }} * {{sleep | name=Mt. Inn | url= | email= | address=P.O. Box 1821 Moshi | lat= | long= | directions=Kiborloni | phone=+255 27 2755622, +255 27 2752998 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Mt. Inn is 6 km from Moshi town on road to Marangu, Kilimanjaro National Park. It's a base hotel for climbers plus has a variety of food (Indian and continental) and a swimming pool. }} * {{sleep | name=Shira Place Bed & Breakfast | url=http://www.shiraplace.com {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Rose Garden Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+255 786 911 030 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$25/night | checkin= | checkout= | content=This very large Mediterranean-style house has 7 bedrooms, a large living room, dining room and kitchen, satellite TV, wireless internet, beautiful gardens and a stunning view of Mt. Kilimanjaro. If you want to reserve, ask for Michael. }} * {{sleep | name=Springlands Hotel | url=http://www.springlandshotel.com | email= | address=Tembo Road, Pasua Area, Moshi, Tanzania | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+255 - 27 27 53581 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Springlands Hotel near Moshi is a good base for mountain walking trips and safaris to Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, and other wilderness areas in Northern Tanzania. This modern hotel is on the Southern slopes of Kilimanjaro. }} * {{sleep | name=Tarn Hut Resort | url=http://www.tarnhut.net | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Moshi - Marangu gate road | phone=+255 754492496 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$20-40/night | checkin= | checkout= | content= 4 km from town center along the road to Dar es Salaam and Marangu gate. Small decent place to stay, friendly services. }} * {{sleep | name=YMCA Hostel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+255 27 275 1754 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$13-28/night | checkin= | checkout= | content=On the edge of downtown towards Shantytown. Has a pool. }} * {{sleep | name=Zebra Hotel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=clean rooms, friendly people and decent food and bar. }} *{{sleep | name=Hostel Foot Prince | url=http://www.foot2afrika.com | email= | address=Soweto | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$12-20 depending on duration of stay | checkin= | checkout= | content=Western style hostel. Price include breakfast and dinner and provide volunteering projects free of charge. Also provides safari and mountain-trekking with the organisation Foot2afrika. }} *{{sleep | name=Tembo Tamu Bed and Breakfast | url=http://www.tembotamu.com | email= | address=Rau, Moshi | lat= | long= | directions=Off Uru Road, past Keys Hotel - 40min walk to town | phone=+255 757 983 007 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$20 person | checkin= | checkout= | content=A family run bed and breakfast in a village environment. Also able to organise safari and Kilimanjaro climbs. }} *{{sleep | name=Twiga Home | alt= | url=http://www.moshi-hostel.com | email= | address=Soweto | lat= | long= | directions=Soweto Area near Old Moshi airport | phone=+255 762-035030 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=11AM | price=US$12-24 | content=A new and modern hostel/budget hotel in the Soweto Area of Moshi with single and double/twin rooms with or without AC, all with private bathrooms and hot water. Free shuttle to Moshi town, free WiFi, restaurant, bar, garden terrace. Perfect for backpackers, mountain climbers, volunteers. 14 rooms, very friendly staff. }} *{{sleep | name=Honey Badger Lodge | url=http://www.honeybadgerlodge.com | email= | address=Msaranga | lat= | long= | directions=6 km out of Moshi town on the Road to DSM, turn right at Msaranga Petrol station | phone=+255 787730235 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$5-60 | checkin=2PM | checkout=10AM | content=A wide range of accommodation options, camping, dorm rooms, self-catered rooms, ensuite rooms. Spacious lush gardens, large clean swimming pool, friendly staff. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Bristol Cottages Kilimanjaro | alt= | url=http://www.kiliweb.com/bristol {{dead link|August 2018|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+255 27 2755083 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$40-150/night | content=Also available in combination with Expedition Kilimanjaro (see Climbs). }} * {{sleep | name=Kindoroko Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.kindorokohotels.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+255 27 2754054, +255 27 2750082 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$25-45/night | lastedit=2011-01-29 | content=Tiny single rooms. Just ask for another room if you can't move. Great double rooms. Awesome roof top restaurant and bar - amazing view of Mt Kilimanjaro! In house tour company offers affordable safari trips to. Works extensively with Expedition Kilimanjaro (see Climbs). }} * {{sleep | name=Parkview Inn | url=http://www.pvim.com/ | email= | address=P.O.Box 373 | lat= | long= | directions=Aga khan road | phone=+255 27 27 50 711 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$65-120/night | checkin= | checkout= | content=Rooms are well furnished and exceptionally clean. Restaurant and poolside service is available. }} * {{sleep | name=Mount Kilimanjaro View Lodge | url=http://mtkilimanjaroviewlodge.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+255 784 392 862 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=$30-40/night | checkin= | checkout= | content=Very unique lodging located {{ft|9600}} up Mount Kilimanjaro nestled against the rain forest, near the local Chagga tribe town Uru Shimbwe. Ideal altitude for trekkers to acclimatize a minimum of two days before beginning their planned ascent of Mt Kilimanjaro or Mt Meru. Mini hikes in the rain forest to spectacular waterfalls. Unbelievable view, extremely welcoming staff who will throw a celebration for you when you arrive and immerse you in their "cultural" celebrations later in the night. Owner is very knowledgeable with expeditions (naturally) to Mt. Kilimanjaro as well as safaris to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, etc., and is willing to organize those trips for you. }} *{{sleep | name=Kibo Executive Lodge | url=http://www.kiboexecutivelodge-moshi.com {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$60-120 | checkin= | checkout=11AM | content=A small, clean bed and breakfast. Lunches and dinners are also available. Full bar service. Nice outdoor garden in a quiet residential setting. Outdoor seating available for meals or relaxation. Comfortable common area with large LCD cable TV. All rooms ensuite with air conditioning, TV, phone, writing desk and mini fridge. }} * {{sleep | name=Sal Salinero Villa Kilimanjaro | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$65-120/night | checkin= | checkout= | content=Has most facilities, good relaxing in beautiful gardens with pool. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Protea Hotel Aishi | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=outside of Moshi in Machame | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$120-145 /night | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Weru Weru River Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.weruweruriverlodge.com | email=info@weruweruriverlodge.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions=located in the 2-bridge area, 10 km outside Moshi town | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A more western style hotel, Weru Weru River Lodge would be about 4 stars in the US. 32 rooms. }} ==Respect== Moshi is a popular tourist destination so most will not be offended by your clothing choices. However, women will gain much more respect by wearing clothes covering their legs at least to the knees, as local ladies rarely show their legs. ==Connect== *There is a '''post office''' near the Clock Tower on Market St. for mailing letters and packages, you can also rent a P.O. box. There is also a DHL office opposite the Dar Express office on Station Rd. *Kili Hub is a co-working space providing fast internet, back up power and a place to work and videochat for the whole day for only a couple of dollars. *There are several internet cafes in town, two are located Hill Street near the Coffee Shop, Fahari and '''[http://www.dumainternet.com/ Duma] {{dead link|December 2020}}''' (beside The Coffee Shop). Duma acts as a safari tour operator as well as an internet cafe. Located near the Clock Tower is one called EasyCom. Rates for usage vary, but usually around TSh 1500 per hour. Another cafe, called '''Dot Cafe''', is near the Tanzania Electric Supply Company Ltd. (TANESCO) on Rengua Street. The first internet cafe in Moshi, '''Twiga''' is on Old Moshi Road, up the road from KNCU Hotel. It offers fast internet connection. They also rent out novels, movies and have trekking/camping equipment for hire. *If your phone operates on GSM 900/1800 and uses a SIM card then you can buy a Tanzanian SIM card (Vodacom, Airtel, Tigo or Zantel) (cost is Tsh 1000). You can also buy a phone locally for around US$50. You have to prepay for minutes by buying credit. Vodacom, Airtel, Tigo and Zantel offer relatively fast internet (buy mb bundles by sending sms), which can be used on your phone as well as laptop (using phone as a modem). * All internet cafes in Moshi use the same backhaul internet connection, so if the connection is down in one cafe, it's usually down in them all. * Some internet cafes offer Skype, although others allege that internet telephone services are illegal in Tanzania (presumably because the state owns the telephone system and does not want to lose out on international phone charges). ==Cope== *There are several hospitals and dispensaries, most notably '''[http://www.kcmc.ac.tz/ KCMC]'''. However to even see a doctor you have to pay around TSh 50,000. There are other clinics in Moshi but again there is usually a charge just for admittance. If you travel just outside Moshi to the village of Soweto there is '''St. Joseph's Hospital''' (10 minutes by taxi), run by nuns, and you only pay for tests and medication. *There are many different religious centers, a large mosque is present in town, there is a prominent Catholic Diocese [http://moshidiocese.org/index.cfm] {{dead link|August 2020|December 2020}}, a few SDA churches such as Majengo SDA Church [http://www.majengosdachurch.org] {{dead link|December 2020}}, a Sikh Temple, plus many others. There are many churches which have both English and Swahili services. *There are dental services in town, just look around. There are also optometrists with very decent prices for glasses! *The Immigration office is located up Boma Rd from the Clock Tower, just a bit further than the banks. You can renew visas here. *There are several banks with 24-hour ATM machines. They are usually protected round the clock by an armed guard. *There are several Forex Bureaux De Change in Moshi that charge reasonable rates. Most hotels will also exchange travellers cheques, although at a less favourable rate. It's not impossible to pay for general goods and services in US dollars, although locals prefer shillings. ==Go next== You can get to [[Zanzibar]] in one day, if you take the early bus (6:30AM) to Dar es Salaam, operated by '''Dar Express''', and from there take the ferry at 4PM to Stone Town. The Dar Express office is located near the clock roundabout on Station Rd, opposite the Kahawa house. There are several day trips possible. Mkomazi, Arusha, Tarangire and Manyara National Parks are possible as day trips. Banana/Coffee plantation tours on the lower slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro along with a visit to one of the waterfalls that are nearby. Union Cafe (listed in the restaurant section), owned by Kilimanjaro Coffee Growers Cooperative organizes the most popular coffee plantation tour (Kahawa Shamba Tour). Lake Chala and hotsprings are also popular excursions. {{usablecity}} {{isPartOf|Northeast Tanzania}} {{geo|-3.35569|37.34270|zoom=15}} 3xx01cymw9fj3rqvtm6loixj8aqt14l 0 24126 5288959 5283169 2026-06-07T02:06:19Z Kurstak6451 2419334 /* */ 5288959 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner |Boudha Stupa Kathmandu banner.jpg|caption=Boudha Stupa, Kathmandu}} '''Nepal''' ([[Nepali phrasebook|Nepali]]: नेपाल ''Nepāl'') is a landlocked country in the [[Himalayas]] of [[South Asia]]. It has eight of the world's 10 highest peaks, including [[Mount Everest]], the world's tallest, on the border with [[Tibet]], as well as [[Lumbini]], the birthplace of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Originally a monarchy for two centuries, Nepal has been ruled under a republic since 2008. Nepal earns its title as the rooftop of the world, and this breathtaking country features over 1,300 peaks. ==Regions== Nepal is divided into 7 provinces and 77 districts for administrative purposes, but Wikivoyage uses the divisions below, based on the country's elevation, which are more useful for travellers. From north to south: {{Regionlist | regionmap=Nepal-regions-map.png | regionmaptext=Regions of Nepal | regionmapsize=480px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[Himalayas (Nepal)|Himalayas]] | region1color=#748ab7 | region1description=The roof of the world, including [[Mount Everest]], [[Annapurna]], [[Langtang National Park]] and [[The Great Himalaya Trail]] with numerous sightseeing, trekking and other adventure sport opportunities. | region2name=[[Kathmandu Valley]] | region2color=#c55a26 | region2description=Home to [[Kathmandu]], [[Patan]] and [[Bhaktapur]], this is in the heart of Nepal and a crossroads of cultures with numerous temples and monuments. | region3name=[[Middle Hills]] | region3color=#b6b65f | region3description=The Hill Region (''Pahar'' in Nepali) is mostly between 700 and 4,000 metres altitude. This region is split from the Terai Range by the Mahabharat Lekh (Lesser Himalaya) and forms a geographic midlands between the Terai and the Himalayas. It includes the scenic [[Pokhara]] Valley, a popular base for activities in the area. | region4name=[[Western Tarai]] | region4color=#945394 | region4description=The western side of the Terai place with the [[Chitwan National Park]] and [[Bardia National Park]]. Also home to [[Lumbini]], the birthplace of Buddha. | region5name=[[Eastern Tarai]] | region5color=#50b250 | region5description=A populated area with [[Biratnagar]], Nepal's second-largest city. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#748ab7|title=[[Himalayas (Nepal)|Himalayas]]|wikidata=Q28601,Q28592,Q28623,Q28593,Q28610,Q2239575,Q28434,Q28476,Q29275,Q28436,Q28624,Q28454,Q28430,Q28605,Q28445,Q28621,Q28363,Q28596,Q28590}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c55a26|title=[[Kathmandu Valley]]|wikidata=Q797472,Q1108338,Q28451}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b6b65f|title=[[Middle Hills]]|wikidata=Q28071,Q28102,Q28619,Q28076,Q28594,Q28600,Q28426,Q28443,Q29430,Q53018063,Q51844688,Q28162,Q28421,Q28448,Q28446,Q28611,Q29026,Q28599,Q2284812,Q28081,Q28585,Q28155,Q29016,Q28589,Q28571,Q28597,Q28094,Q28432,Q28440,Q28572,Q28174,Q28586,Q28582,Q28569}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#945394|title=[[Western Tarai]]|wikidata=Q28583,Q50822475,Q50824791,Q28438,Q28574,Q28066,Q28447,Q28458,Q28153,Q28981,Q28588}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#50b250|title=[[Eastern Tarai]]|wikidata=Q25104009,Q28160,Q28083,Q28157}} ==Cities== <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> [[File:Kathmandu Valley.jpg|thumb|Kathmandu Valley]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kathmandu]]|wikidata=Q3037}} — capital and cultural centre of Nepal, with its Hanumandhoka Durbar Square and the stupas at [[Boudhanath]] and [[Swayambhunath]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bhaktapur]]|wikidata=Q843138}} — a well-preserved historical city, centre of pilgrimage and Nepali pottery-making; no motorised vehicles allowed. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Biratnagar]]|wikidata=Q8247}} — an important agricultural and industrial centre, and a centre for politics in eastern Nepal. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Janakpur]]|wikidata=Q378649}} — a historical religious centre and home to the 500-year old Janaki Temple. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Namche Bazaar]]|wikidata=Q376123}} — a Sherpa settlement in the Solu Khumbu region popular with trekkers. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nepalgunj]]|wikidata=Q1025462}} — the main hub for the Mid- and Far-Western Development Region; Bardiya National Park and Banke National Park are close by. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Patan]]|wikidata=Q6647}} — beautiful, historic Patan Durbar Square was designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pokhara]]|wikidata=Q6640}} — picturesque lake-side town fast becoming the destination of choice for travellers due to the scenery, adventure sports, dining, hotels and live music scene. <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> ==Other destinations== Locked between the snow peaks of the [[Himalayas]] and the seething [[Plains (India)|Gangetic Plain of India]], Nepal has long been home to wandering ascetics and tantric yogis. Consequently, the country has a wealth of sacred sites and natural wonders: [[File:Alpenglow on Everest.jpg|thumb|Alpenglow on Everest]] * {{marker|name=[[Annapurna]]|wikidata=Q159621}} — Popular trekking region of Nepal with the world-famous [[Annapurna Circuit]]. * {{marker|name=[[Chitwan National Park]]|wikidata=Q1075023}} — World Heritage site with tigers, rhinos and jungle animals. * {{marker|name=[[Daman (Nepal)|Daman]]|wikidata=Q5211940}} — Tiny village in the mountains offering panoramic views of the Himalayas; especially stunning at sunrise and sunset. * {{marker|name=[[Haleshi]]|wikidata=Q14217508}} (Tibetan: ''Maratika'') — The site of a mountain cave where Padmasambhava attained a state beyond life and death. * {{marker|name=[[Lumbini]]|wikidata=Q9213}} — The sacred site of the Buddha Shakyamuni's birth. * {{marker|name=[[Khumbu|Mount Everest]]|wikidata=Q1428329}} — The tallest peak of the world. * {{marker|name=[[Nagarkot]]|wikidata=Q1025470}} — A hill station one hour from Kathmandu offering excellent views of the Himalayan Range. * {{marker|name=[[Parping]]|wikidata=Q14228858}} — The site of several sacred caves associated with Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. * {{marker|name=[[Tangting]]|wikidata=Q14236154}} — A beautiful and undiscovered traditional Gurung village with a stunning view of the Annapurna range. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationNepal.png}} ===Geography=== [[File:Sunset in Terai, Nepal.jpg|thumb|Sunset in Tarai]] [[File:Annapurna Base Camp Sunrise.jpg|thumb|Annapurna Base Camp sunrise]] Nepal can be divided into the follwoing geographic regions, south to north: * '''Outer Tarai''' — Level plains, a cultural and linguistic extension of northern India. Here Nepali speakers are outnumbered by [[Awadhi]], [[Bhojpuri]] and [[Maithili]] languages. [[Lumbini]] and [[Janakpur]] are major tourist and pilgrimage spots here, with most other cities being transport hubs for travel between India and Nepal. It offer opportunities for intimate exposure to traditional Indian culture that have become less available in India itself. * '''Sivalik Range''' or '''Churia Hills''' — the outermost and lowest range of the Himalayas, about {{m|600}} high. Extends across the country east to west but with significant gaps and many subranges. The area is largely undeveloped due to poor soil and no agriculture, and is home to primitive hunter-gatherers. * '''Inner Tarai''' — Large valleys between the Sivaliks and the higher mountain ranges. The '''Dang''' and '''Deukhuri''' valleys in the Mid West are the largest, offering opportunities to experience Tharu art and culture. '''Chitwan''' south of Kathmandu is another of these valleys, known for the Chitwan National Park, a {{unesco}} where tigers, rhinos, crocodiles, deer and birds can be observed. Originally these valleys were malarial and lightly populated by '''Tharus''' who had evolved resistance and developed architectural and behavioural adaptations limiting exposure to the most dangerous nocturnal mosquitoes. Suppression of mosquitoes with DDT in the 1960s opened these valleys to settlers from the hills who cleared forests and displaced and exploited Tharus. Nevertheless, more remote parts of these valleys still have the Garden of Eden quality - forests broken by indefinite fields, lazy rivers, fascinating aboriginal peoples. * '''Mahabharat Range''' — A prominent continuous mountain range, except for narrow transecting canyons, with elevations ascending up to {{m|3000}}. Steep southern slopes are a no-man's land between lowland and '''Pahari''' (hill) cultures and languages, which begin along the crest and gentler northern slopes. Given clear skies, there are panoramic views of the high Himalayas from almost anywhere on the crest. It is underdeveloped as a tourist venue compared to [[Hill stations in India|India's hill stations]], although there are destinations like [[Daman (Nepal)|Daman]] and [[Tansen]]. * '''Middle Hills''' — Valleys north of the Mahabharat Range and hills up to about {{m|2,000}}. It is mainly inhabited by Hindus of the '''Bahun''' (priestly Brahmin) and '''Chhetri''' (warriors and rulers) castes who speak Nepali as their first language. Higher where it becomes too cold to grow rice, populations are largely '''Magar''', '''Gurung''', '''Tamang''', '''Rai''' or '''Limbu''', the '''hill tribes''' from which the British recruited '''Gurkha''' soldiers while the soldiers' families grew crops suited to temperate climates. Men in these ethnic groups also work as porters or may be herders moving their flocks into the high mountains in summer and the lower valleys in winter. Trekking through the hills is unremittingly scenic with streams and terraced fields, picturesque villages, a variety of ethnic groups with distinctive costumes, and views of the high Himalayas from high points. * '''Valleys''' — '''[[Kathmandu]]''' and to the west '''[[Pokhara]]''' occupy large valleys in the hills. The Kathmandu Valley was urbanised long before the first Europeans reached the scene and has historic neighbourhoods, temple complexes, pagodas, Buddhist stupas, palaces and bazaars. Its natives are predominantly '''Newar''' farmers, traders, craftsmen and civil servants. Newar culture is an interesting synthesis of Hindu and Buddhist elements. Unfortunately a range of hills north of this valley limit views of the Himalaya. Pokhara has fewer urban points of interest but outstanding views of the nearby '''[[Annapurna]]'''. Pokhara's Newar population is confined to bazaars. Elsewhere upper caste Hindus dominate, whose ancestors probably were '''Khas''' peoples from far western Nepal. Both valleys offer excellent opportunities to experience Nepal without strenuous trekking. Narrower valleys along streams and rivers are important rice-growing centres in the hills. There is a limited amount of this land and most of it is owned by upper caste Hindus. * '''Lekhs''' — Snow occasionally falls and lasts days or weeks in the winter above {{m|3,000}}, but melts in summer below about {{m|5,500}}. Treeline is about {{m|4,000}}. This zone is used for summer pastures but not year-round habitation. North of the lekhs, the snowy high Himalayas rise abruptly along a fault zone to peaks over 6,700 m (22,000 ft) and even over 8,000 m (26,000 ft). Himalaya means 'abode of snow', which is uninhabited. Valleys among the peaks are inhabited, especially along trade routes where rice from the lowlands was traded for salt from the Tibetan Plateau along with other goods. Trade has diminished since [[China]] annexed [[Tibet]] in the 1950s but catering to trekkers and climbers has become an economic engine. People living along these routes have Tibetan affinities but usually speak fluent Nepali. * '''Trans-Himalaya''' — Peaks in this region north of the highest Himalayas in central and western Nepal are lower and gentler, mostly around {{m|6,000}}. Valleys below {{m|5,000}}. It is inhabited by the '''Tibetans''' and have adapted to living at much higher elevations than other Nepalis. Roads have not yet penetrated this far and travel is expensive by air or arduous on foot. Nevertheless, it is a unique opportunity to experience a very significant and attractive culture in spectacular surroundings. ====River basins==== These are also important geographic divisions. The '''Mahabharat Range''' is a major hydrologic barrier in Nepal and other parts of the Himalaya. South-flowing rivers converge in '''candelabra''' shapes to break through this range in a few narrow gorges. Travel is usually easier within these candelabra drainage systems than between them, so high divides between river systems became historically important political, linguistic and cultural boundaries. ===History=== [[File:Kathmandu valley scene Shivapuri Nagarjun.JPG|thumb|Kathmandu Valley]] =====Karnali-Seti-Bheri===== The '''Karnali''' system in the far west is the birthplace of Pahari ('hill') culture. It was settled by people called the '''Khas''', speaking an '''Indo-European''' language called '''Khaskura''' ('Khas talk') that was related to other north Indian languages and all claiming descent from classical '''Sanskrit'''. East of the Karnali proper, along a major tributary called the '''Bheri''' and further east in another basin called the '''Rapti''' lived a Tibeto-Burman people called '''Kham'''. Khas and Kham people seem to have been allies and probably intermarried to create the synthesis of aryan and mongoloid features that especially characterises the second-highest '''Chhetri''' (Kshatriya) caste. It appears that Khas kings recruited Kham men as guards and soldiers. Khas and Kham territories in the far west were subdivided into small kingdoms called the '''Baisi''', literally '22' as they were counted. Nepal has one of the world's highest birthrates because Hindu women usually marry by their early teens, causing their entire reproductive potential to be utilised. Furthermore, men who can afford it often take multiple wives. This may trace back to Khas culture, explaining relentless Khas colonisation eastward as finite amounts of land suitable for rice cultivation were inevitably outstripped by high birthrates. =====Rapti and Gandaki===== [[File:Dhorpatan5.jpg|thumb|Dhorpatan landscape]] The Rapti river system east of the Karnali-Bheri had few lowlands suitable for growing rice and extensive highlands that were not attractive for Khas settlement but were a barrier to migration. However the Rapti's upper tributaries rose somewhat south of the Himalaya. Between these tributaries and the Dhaulagiri range of the Himalaya, a large east–west valley called '''Dhorpatan''' branching off the upper Bheri provided a detour eastward, over an easy pass called Jaljala into the '''Gandaki''' river system further east. The Gandaki is said to have seven major tributaries, most rising in or beyond the high Himalaya. They merge to cut through the Mahabharat and Siwalik ranges. In this basin elevations were generally lower and rainfall was higher compared to the Karnali-Bheri and Rapti basins. There was great potential for rice cultivation, the agricultural base of the Khas way of life. A collection of small principalities called the '''Chaubisi''' developed. Chaubisi literally means '24', as these kingdoms were counted. Not all were Khas kindoms. Some were Magar, a large indigenous hill tribe people related to the Kham. Other kingdoms were Gurung and Tamang. Several Gandaki tributaries rose in the trans-Himalayan region where inhabitants and rulers became increasingly Tibetanised to the north. =====Emergence of Shah Dynasty from Gorkha===== Within the Chaubisi kingdoms of the Gandaki basin, Gorkha was a small valley east of Pokhara ruled by a Khas family now called Shah, an honorific title that may have come later, however any earlier name seems to be forgotten. In 1743 AD '''Prithvi Narayan Shah''' became the ruler of [[Gorkha]] after his father Nara Bhupal Shah died. Prithvi Narayan already had a reputation as a hotheaded upstart. Resolving to modernise Gorkha's army, he was bringing modern arms from India when customs officers demanded inspection and payment of duties. Prithvi Narayan refused and attacked the officers, killing several before escaping with his arms and men. He also visited Benares to study the situation of local rulers and the growing encroachment of British interests. Prithvi concluded that invasion was a chronic danger to rulers on the plains of northern India, whereas the hills were more defensible and offered more scope to carve out a lasting empire. =====Kathmandu Valley (Bagmati)===== Prithvi Narayan must have been a charismatic figure, for he recruited, equipped and trained a formidable army and persuaded his subjects to underwrite all this from his ascension to the throne until his death in 1775. Through conquest and treaty, he consolidated several Chaubisi kingdoms. As his domain expanded, '''Khaskura''' became known as '''Gorkhali''', i.e. the language of the Gorkha kingdom. Then he moved east into the next river basin, the '''Bagmati''' which drains the [[Kathmandu Valley]] that held three small but prosperous urban kingdoms. Like the Rapti, the Bagmati rises somewhat south of the Himalaya. Unlike the Rapti basin, this valley had once held a large lake and the remaining alluvial soil was exceptionally fertile. Between the agricultural abundance, local crafts, and extensive trade with Tibet, the cities were prosperous. Prithvi Narayan encircled the valley, cutting off trade and restricting ordinary activities, even farming and getting water. With a combination of stealth, brutality and intimidation he prevailed and deposed the local kings in 1769, making Kathmandu his new capital. This was the high point of Prithvi Narayan's career, however he continued consolidating the Kathmandu Valley with the Chaubisi and Baisi federations to the west until his death in 1775. Gorkhali was re-dubbed '''Nepali''' as 'Nepal' came to mean not only the urbanised Kathmandu Valley, but all lands ruled by the Shahs. =====Koshi===== Prithvi Narayan's heirs, Pratap Singh, Rana Bahadur and Girvan Yuddha continued expansion of their kingdom into the '''Koshi''' river basin east of the Bagmati system. Like the Gandaki, the Koshi traditionally has seven major tributaries descending from the Himalaya before joining forces to break through the Mahabharat and Siwalik ranges. Ranges drained by Koshi tributaries include Mount [[Everest]] and its neighbouring peaks, as well as the western side of the Kangchenjunga massif. Kangchenjunga and a high ridge to the south are the watershed between the Koshi and Tista basins as well as the border between Nepal and the former kingdom [[Sikkim]] that India annexed in 1975. ===People=== [[File:Manuscript from Nepal in Newari and Sanskrit.jpg|thumb|Manuscript from Nepal in Newari and Sanskrit]] The Nepalese population can be divided based on ethnicity or religion. Major ethnic categories include '''Khas-Aryas''', '''Janajatis''', '''Newars''' and '''Madheshis'''. Although Nepal is best known for [[Hinduism]] and [[Buddhism]], there are Christian and Muslim minorities too. Like in India, Hindus in Nepal are divided into various castes. '''Newars''', the indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley, follow both Hinduism and Buddhism. They can be classified into 40 distinct cultural groups, but all speak a common language called '''[[Newari]]''' or '''Nepal Bhasa''' ('''Newa Bhaaya'''). However, Newars use prevailing lingua francas to communicate outside their community: Nepali in the hills, and Maithili, Bhojpuri and Awadhi in the Tarai. '''Janajatis''' include the various tribes of Nepal with their own mother tongues and cultures, and they don't come under the Hindu caste system. ====Castes==== {{main|Hinduism#Castes}} According to one theory, Hindu castes migrated from India to Nepal after the 11th century due to the Islamic invasions in the former. Another theory says that present day Hindu hill castes come from the Buddhist/Hindu population of the ancient Khas kingdom (present day Western Nepal). The traditional Hindu caste system is based on the four "varnas": '''Brahmins''' (Bahun), '''Kshatriyas''' (Chhetri), '''Vaishya''' and '''Shudra'''. Like in India, Hindus outside the four varnas are called '''Dalits''', and subject to caste-based discrimination and so called "untouchability" in social, economic, educational, political and religious areas. However, the middle Vaishyas and Shudras are underrepresented in the hills, apparently because they did not have compelling reason to leave the plains while Muslim invaders tried to eliminate previous elites. Dalits seem to have accompanied the upper castes into the hills because they were bound by longstanding patronage arrangements. However, the absence of Vaishya people in the Hindu hill population supports the second theory. Traditional caste rules govern who can eat with whom, especially when boiled rice is served, and who can accept water from whom. These rules were enforced by law till the 1950s. However, there's no caste-based reservation in Nepal. ===Climate=== [[File:Boudhanath 2016-07-03c.jpg|thumb|Monsoon rains may cause floods]] Nepal experiences four seasons a year, '''summer''', '''rainy season''' (or '''monsoon'''), '''autumn''' and '''winter'''. However, it traditionally recognises '''six seasons''': '''Basanta''' (spring), '''Grishma''' (summer), '''Barkha''' (rains), '''Sharad''' (early autumn), '''Hemanta''' (late autumn) and '''Shishir''' (winter). Monsoon rains in Nepal occur between June and September. They are generally lighter high in the higher mountains than in Kathmandu, though the mountain peaks are often not visible due to clouds. In the Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara, monsoon rains typically consist of an hour or two of rain every two or three days. Bring an umbrella during that time, and expect lower lodging prices and fewer tourists. There is little dust in the air during autumn (October–December), so this is the best season to visit the hills and mountains. During winter (January–March), the temperature in Kathmandu often dropping as low as {{C|0}} at night, with extreme cold at high elevations. It is possible to trek in places like [[Khumbu]] during the winter, but it is extremely cold, and snowfall may prevent going above {{m|4,000-4,500}}. The Jomosom trek is a reasonable alternative, staying below {{m|3,000}} with expected minimum temperatures about {{C|-10}}, and much better chances of avoiding heavy snow. During summer (April–June), there is an abundance of blooming flowers in the Himalayas at this time, with rhododendrons, in particular, adding a splash of colour to the landscape. The temperatures in the Tarai may reach or exceed {{C|40}} while Kathmandu stays at {{C|30}}. This is the best time to undertake mountain expeditions. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.tourism.gov.np/ Nepal Tourism] website ==Talk== The great biological and cultural diversity of present-day Nepal is matched by its linguistic diversity. Nepal boasts a variety of living languages many of which are remnants of the traditional Asiatic cultural amalgamation in the region, it has an impressively large number for a country with such a small land mass. Nepal has more distinct and individual languages in one country than the whole of the European community. The official language of Nepal is '''[[Nepali]]'''. It's related to Hindi, Punjabi, and other Indo-Aryan languages, and is normally written with the '''Devanagari''' script (as is Hindi), originated from Sanskrit. While most Nepalis speak at least some Nepali, a large percentage of the population has as their mother tongue another language, such as '''Tharu''' around Chitwan, '''[[Newari]]''' in the Kathmandu Valley, and '''[[Sherpa]]''' in the [[Everest]] area. Although Nepal was never a British colony, English is somewhat widespread among educated Nepalis. Nevertheless, learning even a few words of Nepali is fun and useful, especially outside of the tourist district and while trekking (porters often speak very little English and the inquisitive children in the tea houses are delighted to hear a few words of Nepali from their house guests). As Asian languages go, Nepali has to be one of the easiest to learn, and the traveller making the effort isn't likely to make worse blunders than many natives with a different first language. The locals are also happy to help with your burgeoning language skills. A disturbingly large number of Nepal's mother tongues are severely endangered and will likely cease to be living languages within a generation. ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Nepal.svg|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Nepal, with countries in navy and light blue having visa on arrival]] ===Entry requirements=== ====Visas==== [[File:Nepalarrival.jpg|thumb|Nepali arrival stamps]] Citizens of India may stay in Nepal indefinitely without a visa. Citizens of Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka may obtain a free visa-on-arrival for stays of up to 30 days regardless of reason of visit. citizens of China (mainland), Hong Kong and Macau are also eligible for a free visa-on-arrival for stays of up to 30 days, but are only permitted to visit for tourism. Nationals of Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, Eswatini, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine and Afghanistan are required to obtain visas ''before arrival''. '''Tourist Visas''' are available on arrival for citizens of many countries at Kathmandu airport and designated frontier posts (see below) and cost: * US$30 for 15 days * US$50 for 30 days * US$125 for 90 days Tourist visas can be granted for a maximum of 150 days in a visa year. You can also pay this on arrival in other convertible currencies such as euros, pounds sterling, Chinese reminbi and Australian dollars, although US dollars are always preferred and some smaller entry points (like Birgunj) may only accept US dollars, and Kodari only accepts US dollars and Chinese reminbi. All tourist visas are the "multiple entry" type and allow multiple entries and exits during the period of validity. '''Volunteering''' while on a tourist visa without permission is '''strictly prohibited'''. More details are available on the official website of '''[http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/ Nepal Immigration]''' '''Visa Application''' Visas can be applied for online at [https://online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/tourist-visa nepalimmigration.gov.np]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, but as the online application form requires information about the intended place of stay in Nepal that is difficult to acquire (such as ward number, municipality, district etc.), it generally more convenient to complete the visa application after arrival. To extend your tourist visa, visit the Nepal Immigration Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara with your passport and another photo, and pay US$2 for every day past your visa you want to stay, up to the maximum of 150 days per year. '''Money''' Cash payment is recommended (non-USDs are also accepted, but expect the exchange rate not to be the best). Visa and Mastercard payments are also available—they are coded as ''cash advances'' on the credit card. A US$1 fee is added in addition to the required visa payment amount if paying with credit card. ====Entry points==== Check up to date border crossings at official website of Nepali immigration: https://www.immigration.gov.np/en/offices * Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu * Jogbani, Biratnagar (Eastern Nepal) - separate border crossing for foreigners is 2-3 km south from train station * [[Kakarbhitta|Kakarbitta]], Jhapa (Eastern Nepal) * Birganj/Birgunj, Parsa (Central Nepal) * [[Kodari]], Sindhupalchowk (Northern Border) * Belahia, [[Bhairahawa]] (Rupandehi, Western Nepal) * Jamunaha, Nepalgunj (Banke, Mid Western Nepal) * Trinagar Bhansar (Mohana), Dhangadhi (Kailali, Far Western Nepal) * Gaddachauki, Mahendranagar (Kanchanpur, Far Western Nepal) ===By plane=== [[File:2009-03 Kathmandu 10.jpg|thumb|Outside Tribhuvan International Airport]] Kathmandu's '''[[Kathmandu#By plane|Tribhuvan International Airport]]''' ({{IATA|KTM}}) is the only international airport in Nepal. Although Nepal is a popular tourist destination, most flights from anywhere will stop on the way in other parts of Asia, such as the Middle East. Because of this, expect long travel times if you're coming from Europe or North America. ===By bus=== [[File:The Friendship Bridge connecting China with Nepal.jpg|thumb|The Friendship Bridge between China and Nepal]] There are five border crossings open to tourists. From India: * '''Bahraich-Nepalganj''' from [[Lucknow]] * '''Banbassa-Mahendrenagar''' from [[Delhi]] * '''[[Panitanki]]-[[Kakarbhitta]]''' from [[Siliguri]], [[Darjeeling]] * '''[[Raxaul]]-[[Birgunj|Birganj]]''' from [[Patna]], [[Kolkata]] * '''[[Sunauli]]-[[Bhairawa]]''' from [[Varanasi]] There are several border crossings to China, but they all face [[Tibet]] and are thus not open to independent travel: you will need to arrange a permit and join an organised tour. See that article for details. * '''Kyirong''' (aka Gyirong or 吉隆 Jilong in Chinese) which is 25 km from the Nepal border. It has a decent two-star hotel, and the Tamang Sherpa Restaurant across the street from the hotel (May 2018). The road to the border is very windy (40-45 minutes by car), but it is paved and in good condition. The road on the Nepal side is terrible. To Kathmandu, it will take 6 to 7 hours driving time, not including stopping for lunch and the 8-10 checkpoints. During the monsoon season (Jun-Aug), the road can be closed for hours or days because of rockslides and mudslides. * {{marker|type=go|name=Zhangmu border crossing|wikidata=Q24841141}} connecting to [[Kodari]] is reopened since September 2023. ===By car or motorcycle=== Many travellers ride from India on motorcycles, although cars are also common since the mid-2020s. Foreigners have to pay customs at the borders but most don't bother. Crossing the border requires you to pay a daily toll of Rs120 and a transport permit of Rs50 (one time), the police can ask you for these two documents any time during your ride. Selling the bike in Nepal is easy as other travellers are looking for bikes to ride back to India. If you're coming from India you'll find driving in Nepal a lot less chaotic. The roads are amazing and the new east–west highway under construction with support from the Japanese will open up new destinations for those interested in exploring Nepal by motor-bike. Please check before hiring a motorbike on the current state of fuel. Motorbike hire should cost around Rs500 a day (Pulsar, Hero, Honda, scooter) unless you are hiring an Royal Enfield. Rental companies are also notorious for trying to charge tourists large amounts of money for 'damage' that may not have done by you on returning the bike. Therefore, make sure a thorough damage assessment is carried out before departing and, if the hirer tries to scam you on return, go to the local police. The best route to explore Nepal by road on motorcycle, is to enter from the border crossing of Banbasa-Mahendra Nagar, just after the border crossing, the Mahendra Highway (made with collaboration from India) is amazing to ride on. ===By train=== Cargo and passenger trains operate between [[Sirsiya]] in southern Nepal, and the Indian town of [[Raxaul]]. However, except for Indians, foreigners are not allowed to cross the border with it. The internal train network is limited to a few kilometres of train network in [[Janakpur]]. ==Get around== === By plane === There are a number of domestic airlines in Nepal such as Yeti Air, Tara Air and Nepal Airlines that offer frequent flights to many destinations around the country. Destinations to and from [[Kathmandu]] include places like Biratnagar, [[Nepalganj]], Lukla, [[Pokhara]], Simikot, Jomsom, Janakpur and [[Bharatpur]]. To arrange flights from outside Nepal, there are a number of on-line booking agents who can make bookings, take payment (credit/debit cards/PayPal) and then send e-tickets. If you are buying tickets while in Nepal or if you are flying at short notice, it is necessary to be flexible on flight times and dates as the planes often get fully booked in advance. Cancellations and delays due to severe weather conditions do occur. If you have time, just board the next plane. === By bus === [[File:Bus, Nepal (10678458684).jpg|thumb|Packed bus in Nepal]] * '''Micro bus''' – They are 10-12 seaters with very fast and popular service. It has almost replaced local bus service given its fast service. However, apart from previous few routes, Micro Bus has come up with many other alternate routes and now has good coverage. The fare is more expensive than local buses. Tourists should be aware that microbuses are often driven with great speed and very little care and have unfortunately been the cause of a large percentage of the road accidents in Nepal. Use microbuses with caution. * '''Tempo''' – These come in two types. One is a three-wheeled electric or propane powered micro-bus for 10-13 passengers. They run in different routes around Kathmandu and cost Rs5-12. The other type is a newer Toyota van running the same routes at a higher price and a bit faster and safer. Be prepared for a crowd. * '''Local bus''' – Although the system can be confusing, they are cheap. They can be crowded at times both with people and domestic animals such as goats, ducks etc. Some buses will not depart until full to a certain quota. * '''Tourist bus''' – Book a few days ahead at a [[Kathmandu]] or [[Pokhara]] travel agent (or your hotel will book for you). A few steps above local buses (no goats, everyone gets a seat) but not much safer. "Adhikari Travels" is the most reliable company and has trips between Kathmndu, Chitwan, Lumbini and Pokhara. === By taxi === * '''Rickshaw''' – Good for short trips if you don't have much luggage and don't mind being bounced around a bit. Bargain before you get in, and don't be afraid to walk away and try another. * '''Taxi''' – There are two types of taxi: "private", which pretty much run from the airport to upmarket hotels and "10 Rupee", which don't leave until they are full. When haggling for a fare remember that taxi drivers have been hit hard by the petrol crisis sometimes queuing up overnight to get 5 litres of petrol at twice the market price. So be sympathetic but don't get ripped off. Offer to pay 'meter plus tip', 10% is more than enough. Taxis may charge passengers more than usual during periods of low fuel availability. * '''Car with driver''' – It's quite easy to rent a car with a driver in Nepal; however, you'll need to haggle to get a reasonable price. If you come in summer, it is recommended to take a car with air-conditioning. Car rental without a driver in Nepal is almost unheard of, as is renting a car in [[India]] and taking it across the border. === By car or motorbike === Nepal has left-hand traffic. There is little awareness of pedestrians' rights. Roads are often narrow and in poor condition. Rains and landslides affect the condition of the already poor road network, increasing the risk of road accidents. Avoid using local buses, especially those that are overloaded and in poor condition. Travelling after dark increases the risk of serious road accidents. An [[Driving#Driver's license|international driving licence]] is required to drive a car. This card must be carried when driving, as well as all documents relating to the car. Traffic accidents involving a foreigner are almost invariably considered to be caused by a foreigner. Claims for damages in such accidents are often high. Fuel shortages can sometimes occur, which may throw your driving-related plans into chaos. Custom or classic '''motorbikes''' in form 350 cc and 500 cc Royal Enfield bikes are available for rent including lessons, repairs and tours. Furthermore, local motorbikes are another choice and can be rented in the Thamel area of Kathmandu. With the petrol crisis, motorcycle rental has become a costly choice, depending on availability; 1 litre of petrol costs Rs160–165 on top of the rental fee (Rs800–3000). Mopeds are cheaper than motorbikes. Nepalese law requires the driver to wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle or scooter. When renting a motorbike or scooter, it should be remembered that vehicles are rarely insured. The hirer is liable for any damage caused to the vehicle. It is not advisable to leave your passport as a deposit when renting a vehicle. Rental companies are also notorious for trying to charge tourists large amounts of money for 'damage' that may not have done by you on returning the bike. Therefore, make sure a thorough damage assessment is carried out before departing and, if the hirer tries to scam you on return, go to the local police. === By bicycle === You can also rent a bicycle to travel around Kathmandu at a very reasonable price (Rs500–5,000) according to the condition or quality of bicycle and the rental period. [[File:Helicopter trekking annapurna.jpg|thumb|Helicopter-assisted trekking on the Annapurna circuit]] === On foot === Although motor roads are penetrating further into the hinterlands, many destinations can only be reached on foot (or by helicopter). Some require a permit. See [[#Trekking|Trekking]] below. For reliable maps, [[GPS navigation]], comprehensive trails and map information, consult [https://openstreetmap.org OpenStreetMap], which is also used by this travel guide and by many mobile Apps like [https://osmand.net/ OsmAnd] or [https://en.mapy.cz/ Mapy.cz]. Or just download the according GPX or KML files for trails on OpenStreetMap through [https://hiking.waymarkedtrails.org/ Waymarked Trails]. (Note, you just need to change the OpenStreetMap relation ID of the trail to download its GPX or KML files through the same link.) Of course, to get around by yourselves outside of cities, you also need sufficient skills, and you should ascertain that you have appropriate backups for your navigation solutions. ==See== [[File:Alpenglow on Everest.jpg|thumb|Alpenglow on Everest]] * [[Mount Everest]], the highest mountain in the world is probably Nepal's most famous sight, and much of the country consists of very high mountains. There are four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nepal: * The [[Kathmandu Valley]], obviously including the capital but also the cities of [[Bhaktapur]] and [[Patan]]. * [[Sagarmatha National Park]]. * [[Chitwan]] National Park. * [[Lumbini]], the birthplace of Buddha. ==Do== ===Trekking=== [[Image:View from Annapurna Base Camp.JPG|thumb|400px| The spectacular view from Annapurna Base Camp]] {{main|Trekking in Nepal}} Since 2023, solo trekking in many regions is restricted. As of early 2026, the E-TIMS digital QR system is strictly enforced at checkpoints like Monjo and Besisahar. Trekkers must be registered through a licensed agency. 101,320 trekkers visited Nepal in 2007. Of that number, 60,237 (59.4%) visited '''Annapurna''' area while those visiting the '''Everest''' and '''Langtang''' regions accounted for 26,511 (26.5%) and 8,165 (8.1%) respectively. "Tea-house trekking" is the easiest way to trek as it doesn't require support. Tea houses have developed into somewhat rustic full-scale tourist lodges with showers, pizza, pasta and beer. The day's hikes are between lodge-filled settlements or villages: there's no need to take tents, food, water or beer. All those things, plus luxuries such as apple pie, can be purchased along the way. Physical requirements range from easy to strenuous. Facilities available in remote areas are less extensive than in the more popular areas thus these areas are often visited in organised groups, with guide, porters and full support. '''[[Manaslu Trek|Manaslu]]''', '''Kanchenjunga''', '''Dolpo''', '''Mustang''' and '''Humla''' require '''Restricted Area Permits''', requiring a minimum of two foreign trekkers plus a registered/qualified guide. Progress is being made however, and tea-houses are becoming more available in all of these areas. Before setting out on any trek, make sure you find out what the current facilities are in that area, as they are changing every year. ====Annapurna region treks==== [[Annapurna]] - North of [[Pokhara]], from lush middle hills into high mountains. *[[Annapurna Circuit]]: A 2-3 week trek around the Annapurna mountains, leads up the Marsyangdi river to Dharapani, Chame, Manang, over Thorung La (5,400 m) to the Hindu temples at [[Muktinath]] and (possibly) ending at Jomsom. Down the Kali Gandaki on the Jomsom trail (the last week of the Annapurna Circuit which is done by itself in the opposite direction). Known as the "Apple Pie Trek" partly for crossing the apple growing region of Nepal, and partly for being one of the easier treks, enjoying Gurung and Thakali hospitality. Up through spring rhododendron blooms to [[Poon Hill]] for a dawn Himalayan vista. Another shorter but spectacular mini-circuit is the Nayapul-Ghandruk-Ghorepani-PoonHill-Nayapul route. *[[Annapurna Sanctuary]]: A trek up into the very heart of the range provides an awesome 360 degree high mountain skyline. ====Everest region treks==== Everest lies in the region known as [[Khumbu]] - To get here, take a bus to [[Jiri]] or fly to [[Lukla]] then hike up to [[Namche|Namche Bazzar]], capital of the Sherpa lands at the foot of Everest. Main "teahouse trek" regions, in each of these areas there are a number of trail options, there is plenty of scope for short treks of less than a week to much longer if you have time and wanderlust. *[https://zenexplorenepal.com/trip/everest-base-camp-trek/ Everest Base Camp Trek]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}: Lukla to EBC, stunning scenery, wonderful Sherpa people. The most popular trek is up to [[Everest Base Camp Trek|Everest Base Camp]] and an ascent of Kalar Patar. Visit the Buddhist [[Tengboche]] monastery for the Mani Rimdu festival in November. *The 'Classic Everest Base Camp Trek': Jiri to EBC *Gokyo: Lukla to the sacred lakes of Gokyo. Explore the [[Gokyo]] valley with its sacred lakes and stupendous views of four 8,000 m peaks. Or a circuit of the region crossing the high passes or Cho La and Renjo La. *[[Numbur Cheese Circuit]]: Trek through the largest cheese producing area, via the sacred lakes of [[Jata Pokhari]] and [[Panch Pokhari]] to [[Numburchuili]] base camp. *[[Island Peak Trek]] in the [[Everest]] region takes in some of the most spectacular scenery in the Himalayas. See 'Regions' - [[Khumbu]] * Pikey Cultural Trail * Dudh Kunda Cultural Trail ====Trekking peaks==== [[File:Summitting Island Peak.jpg|thumb|Summiting Island Peak]] Trekking peaks require a qualified "climbing guide", permits and deposits to cover camp waste disposal: *[[Island Peak Trek]] - The Island Peak trek in the [[Khumbu]] region takes in some of the most spectacular scenery in the Himalayas. This trek requires use of mountaineering gears. *[[Mera Peak climbing]] - Enjoy panoramic views of Mt Everest (8,848 m; 29,030 ft), Cho-Oyu (8,201 m; 26,910 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m; 27,940 ft), Makalu (8463 m; 27,770 ft), Kangchenjunga (8,586 m; 28,170 ft), Nuptse (7,855 m; 25,770 ft), and Chamlang (7,319 m; 24,010 ft). This trek doesn't require any mountaineering gears. ====Langtang region treks==== * '''Helambu Langtang Trek'''. A short taxi ride from Thamel to the roadhead at Shivapuri leads to a trail through the middle-hills countryside of Helambu. Either circle around and return to Kathmandu or cross the pass to the sacred lake at Gosainkhund, descend and then hike up the Langtang valley beneath mountains that form the border with Tibet. Descend back to catch a bus on a rough road through Trisuli to Kathmandu. If you don't fancy the long shaky bus ride (>8 hours) from/to Syabrubesi, Dhunche or Thulo Barku, you can get a 4x4 pickup for about Rs90,000 to/from Kathmandu. * [[Langtang Valley Trek]] *Tamang Heritage Trail ====Pro-poor rural treks==== Tourism is a dynamic sector of economy and accepting it as a vehicle of poverty reduction is a relatively new concept in Nepal. Nepal is a predominantly rural society, with 85% of the population living in the countryside. Naturally, Nepal's rich culture and ethnic diversity are best experienced in its village communities. You can engage in local activities, learn how to cook local cuisine or take part in agricultural activities like kitchen gardening, etc. :According to the NTB, rural tourism in Nepal focuses on "village trek" visits to indigenous people that “...will make tourists, experience rural life and Nepalese hospitality off the beaten path with all the beautiful scenery and cultural diversity of Nepal.” In the rural Nepal context, pro-poor tourism means expanding employment and small enterprise opportunities especially pro-indigenous peoples, youth and pro-women. Pro-poor initiatives in Nepal include the [http://undp.org.np/energy/projects/trpap/index.php?ProgramID=55 UNDP-TRPAP]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and [https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/---asia/---ro-bangkok/---ilo-kathmandu/documents/publication/wcms_114366.pdf ILO-EMPLED] projects. *Tamang Heritage Trail *Chepang Heritage Trail *Pathibhara Trail *Limbu Cultural Trail *Dudhkunda Cultural Trail *Pikey Cultural Trail *The Guerrilla Trek *[[Numbur Cheese Circuit]] *[[Indigenous Peoples Trail]] Trekking on the Indigenous Peoples Trail and the Numbur Cheese Circuit is a means for Nepali as well as foreign visitors to experience the rural and traditional Nepali way of life, and for the local community to participate in and benefit directly from tourism. You'll feel better knowing that your visit is genuinely helping your hosts. And if you want to simply lie on a beach, well, the Majhi Fishing Experience on the [[Sun Kosi]] in [[Ramechhap]] features one of the best beaches in Nepal. ===='Ethno-tourism' or cultural treks==== [[File:Golden Hour on the Koshi - A Fisherman's Tale.jpg|thumb|Golden Hour on the Koshi]] Ethno-tourism is increasingly popular in Nepal and is designed to maximise social and economic benefits to the local communities and minimise negative impacts to cultural heritage and the environment. Ethno-tourism is a specialised type of cultural tourism and can be defined as any excursion which focuses on the works of humans rather than nature, and attempts to give the tourist an understanding of the lifestyles of local people. *[[Numbur Cheese Circuit]] in the Everest Region *[[Indigenous Peoples Trail]] in [[Ramechhap]] *Majhi Fishing Experience on the [[Sun Koshi]] *The Guerrilla Trek in Mid-Western Nepal *Helambu Trek in Langtang *Tamang Heritage Trail in Langtang *Chepang Heritage Trail in Chitwan ====Remote treks==== [[File:Kanchanjangha range.jpg|thumb|Kanchenjunga]] Other more remote regions will require a bit more planning and probably local assistance, not least as the required permits are only issued via Nepali guides/agents. Camping is required on one or more nights. * [[Kanchenjunga]] - far eastern Nepal, accessible via Taplejung (from Kathmandu 40min by plane, 40hrs by bus), a strenuous trek through sparsely populated country to the third highest mountain. * Dolpa - Upper Dolpa in northwestern Nepal beyond the highest Himalaya is the remote Land of the Bon, almost as Tibetan as Nepali. Lower Dolpa is more accessible and can me reached by plane. * [[Manaslu Trek]] - Unspoiled trails through remote villages and over the Larkya La, a remote pass at 5,100m, to circuit an 8,000m mountain. The Manaslu massif rises above the old kingdom of Gorkha close to the Tibetan border about halfway between Kathmandu and Pokhara and will be close at hand for the last half of the circuit. [[File:Resting on the way to everest base camp.jpg|thumb|Trekkers resting on the way to Everest Base Camp]] ====Social responsibility and responsible travel==== Nepal is one of the poorest countries in the world and hiring a local company will benefit the local economy, however the involvement of travel agents in Kathmandu must be approached with caution. The numbers of travel, trekking and rafting agencies registered in 2007 were 1,078, 872 and 94 respectively. The rapid growth in tourism in Nepal coupled with the absence of a self-regulating code of conduct has helped to grow unhealthy competition among travel agents with regular undercutting in tariffs. Such undesirable actions take away benefits not only from trekking guides and porters but also from others engaged in supplying goods and providing services to the tourists. By paying lower tariffs tourists may save money but directly at the expense of local communities. Try to use 'socially responsible' tour operators that promote proper porter treatment and cultural and environmental sensitivity among their clients in line with the [http://www.sustainabletourismcriteria.org/ UN-WTO Sustainable Tourism Criteria]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. *Organised group trekking or independent trekking? While organised groups from "'''western tour operators'''" from overseas drain the operational profit out of the country, organised groups hire a larger amount of local workforce from porters to guides. With local tour operators, most of the operational profit remains in the country. Groups are more likely to go remote areas, and rely as much as possible on local resources to minimise transport cost and hire maximum local porters. In comparison, individual travellers are concentrated on the main trails with lodges and usually a lower budget. These trekkers usually use simpler lodges with lower costs. They may venture less often into remote areas, as that would mean more expense or very basic local services which most try to avoid. They generally spend less than organised travellers on same trails simply because they often have more restricted budgets. Safety and comfort are higher with organised tours. There is a full range of choice for any demand, just be sure to think about what trekking means for you: do you want to carry your own pack or not? *Keep working conditions and wages in mind when selecting a trekking company. For visitors from the west, hiring guides and porters is affordable and an extra few dollars can make a big impact in the life of a guide or porter. In order to feed themselves and their families, porters take on the job of carrying heavy loads to high elevations. Some of the problems porters face are underpayment, inadequate clothing and gear, being forced to carry excess weight, insufficient food provision and poor sleeping facilities. Sometimes these issues leave porters open to illness and neglect on the mountain. Nowadays most companies care better due to past awareness campaigns to their staff, however, some backpackers employ (illegally) porters and guides and there continue to be reports that some tourists pay less than the going rate.[[File:Kitchen sink nepalese porter.jpg|thumb|A porter carrying a kitchen sink]] *There are a number of websites that facilitate direct contact with recommended trekking guides and porters. By law this is not permitted, as foreigners on tourist visa are not allowed to employ any kind of workforce, but only legal registered companies as use in most countries around the globe. So unless you want to break the law, do not employ yourself any kind of porters or guides and ensure to hire only through legal companies, in case of an accident it may bring severe problems to have employed illegally staff. *The '''[http://www.ippg.net/ International Porter Protect Group’s (IPPG)]{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' was set up in response to these issues, to improve health and safety for the trekking porter at work in the mountains and reduce the incidence of avoidable illness, injury and death. This is achieved by raising awareness of the issues among the trekking community and travel companies, leaders and sirdars. The IPPG recommends the following guidelines: **Adequate clothing is made available for protection in bad weather and at altitude. This should include adequate footwear, hat, gloves, windproof jacket and trousers, sunglasses, and access to a blanket and pad above the snowline. **Leaders and trekkers provide the same standard of medical care for porters they would expect themselves. **Porters must not be paid off because of illness without the leader or trekkers being informed. **Sick porters are never sent down alone, but rather with someone who speaks their language. **Sufficient funds are provided to sick porters to cover the cost of their land rescue and treatment. **All trekking porters should have provision for security, personal protective equipment including shoes and clothes, depending on the weather. ===Rafting and kayaking=== Rafting trips of 1 to 10 days on many rivers and for all levels of experience leave from [[Kathmandu]] and [[Pokhara]]. For detailed itineraries visit the [http://www.raftingassociation.org.np/ Nepal Association of Rafting Agents]{{Dead link|date=October 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. The main rivers for rafting are: * Bhote Koshi * Kali Gandaki * Karnali * Seti * Sun Koshi * Trishuli * Tamur * Marshyangdhi Many companies offer Learn to Kayak Clinics on the Trishuli river, an ideal spot to take your first steps into the world of whitewater. ===Mountain biking=== [[File:Manang site (85).JPG|thumb|Mountainbiking in Manang. Literally.]] [[Mountain biking]] in Nepal is fun and at times challenging event. There are many popular biking routes: * '''The Scar Road from Kathmandu''' starts from Balaju towards Kakani to Shivapuri ending in Budhanilkantha in northern Kathmandu. * '''Kathmandu to Dhulikhel''' starts from Koteshwor in Kathmandu to Bhaktapur to Banepa to Dhulikhel. You can also continue from Dhulikhel to Namobuddha to Panauti to Banepa. * '''The Back Door to Kathmandu''' starts from Panauti and heads to Lakuri Bhanjyang and then to Lubhu in Lalitpur ending near Patan. * '''Dhulikhel to the Tibetan Border''' starts in Dhulikhel and follows the Araniko Highway with a night stay on the way. * '''The Rajpath from Kathmandu''' starts from Kalanki in Kathmandu and follows the Prithvi Highway up to Naubise. Then Tribhuwan Highway route is taken with overnight stay in Daman. From there, ride downhill to Hetauda, with the option of heading towards Narayangarh or the Indian border. * '''Hetauda to Narayangarh and Mugling''' starts from Hetauda and heads along the Mahendra Highway to Narayangarh. You could take a detour to Sauraha near from Taandi. * '''Kathmandu to Pokhara''' starts from Kathmandu and traverses through Naubise, Mugling to Pokhara. * '''Pokhara to Sarangkot and Naudanda''' starts from Lakeside Pokhara and heads towards Sarangkot and from there towards Naudanda. From there, ride downhill towards the highway. The best time to go for biking is between mid October and late March, when the atmosphere is clear the climate is temperate: warm during the days and cool during the night. Biking in other times of the year is also possible but great care should be taken while biking during the monsoon season (June to September) as the roads are slippery. Biking can be done independently or can be organised through biking companies of Nepal. You can '''rent mountain bikes''' of almost any quality, but remember that if you're going on a longer or harder ride, at least your own saddle would be a good option to bring. In late 2009 the daily rental costs ranged from US$3 for a simple bike to US$30 for a western bikes with suspension. ===Motorcycling=== Nepal's geography and climate makes for some of the best motorcycling roads in the world. The traffic is a little chaotic, but not aggressive, and the speeds are low. Be aware that you need an '''international driving licence''' in Nepal, even though you might never be stopped by the police as a tourist on a bike. Perhaps the best and most original way to explore the country is by motorcycle. Kathmandu should be avoided by beginners, but the rest of Nepal is simply amazing. '''Hearts and Tears Motorcycle Club, Wild Experience Tours & Blazing Trails Tours''' are the better known names in the industry. They specialise in motorcycle touring and have a great collection of custom bikes. They are professional set-ups with imported safety equipment, structured training and well organised group tours. ===Canyoning=== Since 2007 that the Nepal Canyoning Association was founded, a lot of canyons (khola in Nepali) have been equipped for organised descents. The 2011 IRC (International Canyoning Rendezvous) took place in the Marshyangdi River valley in the Annapurna region. There are at least 30 canyons where private companies organise excursions for descents. The Nepali canyons offer breathtaking views of the valleys and rice fields below and various combinations of difficulty and water level. Most canyons can only be accessed on foot from the nearby roads, through paths used by the locals for agriculture purposes or accessing their homes. In 2011, one of the longest and most difficult canyons in the world was equipped in an expedition by the "Himalayan Canyon Team" in the Chamje Khola. ===Jungle safari=== [[Chitwan National Park]] offers elephant rides, jungle canoeing, nature walks and bird watching, as well as more adventurous tiger and rhino-viewing. There are also many other less visited parks including [[Bardiya National Park|Bardiya]] and [[Shuklaphanta National Park]] . ===Trance parties=== "The Last Resort", near the Tibetan border, has frequent Full Moon trance parties, lasting 2-3 days. Watch for posters and check music shops. [[Pokhara]] has started featuring its own brand of Full Moon raves and interesting Western takes on Nepali festivals. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Nepalese rupees | currencyCode=Rs | date=January 2026 | USD=145 | EUR=170 | GBP=195 | INR=160 (fixed) | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/npr-nepalese-rupee XE.com] }} '''Nepalese rupees''' are the local currency, denoted by the symbol "'''रु'''" or "'''Rs'''" (ISO currency code: '''NPR'''). Coins of Nepal come in denominations of 1 and 2 rupees. Banknotes of Nepal come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 rupees. ====Acceptance of Indian rupees==== Although Indian currency is also widely accepted in Nepal (at an official exchange rate of 1.60 Nepalese rupees to 1 Indian rupee), it is officially illegal to carry or trade in any Indian rupee note above 100 rupees. In practice though these higher value notes are still unofficially accepted, even at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport to pay for your government issued visa on arrival. ====ATMs==== There are banks in [[Kathmandu]], [[Pokhara]], [[Chitwan]], [[Nepalgunj]], [[Janakpur]], [[Lumbini]] and other major cities that will allow you to retrieve cash from ATM or credit cards. There are many 24/7 ATMs in those cities. Keep all currency exchange and ATM receipts as they are required at the airport bank to convert back to your original currency. If you don't have them, they will refuse to convert your currency but they will suggest going to the Duty Free shop upstairs, even though it isn't a licensed money changer. Traveller's cheques may be useful outside of the major cities. All ATMs in Nepal charge a withdrawal fee of at least {{NPR|500}}. The ATMs likely to have the lowest fee depends on how much you're withdrawing (listed in order from most to fewest branches): * {{NPR|25,000}} or less: NIC Asia, Prabhu, ADBL, Siddhartha, Nepal SBI and Standard Chartered ATMs have the lowest fee of {{NPR|500}} (listed in order from most to fewest branches) with NIC Asia, Prabhu and Standard Chartered ATMs allowing withdrawals up to {{NPR|25,000}} and the other ATMs only {{NPR|20,000}} * {{NPR|35,000}} or less and more than {{NPR|25,000}}: Laxmi Sunrise ATMs have the lowest fee of {{NPR|600}} * {{NPR|40,000}} or less and more than {{NPR|35,000}}: Nabil Bank ATMs have the lowest fee of {{NPR|700}} Note that the fee charged can vary depending on your card type, where your bank is and sometimes even the specific ATM you're using. Check fees when using an ATM you haven't used before, or the same ATM with a different card. If one of these ATMs is not nearby then check this table to help find a favourable alternative: {| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="margin-left: 1em; text-align:right" |+ {{nowrap|Fees and limits}} {{nowrap|(as of Nov 2024)}} <!-- Table default sort order: 1. Ascending on the fee that would apply to a 10000 NPR withdrawal 2. Ascending on the bank name --> ! Bank !! Fee !! Transaction limit |- ! Agriculture Development Bank (ADBL) | {{NPR|500}} || {{NPR|20000}} |- ! Nepal SBI Bank | {{NPR|500}} || {{NPR|20000}} |- ! NIC Asia Bank | {{NPR|500}} || {{NPR|25000}} |- ! Prabhu Bank | {{NPR|500}} || {{NPR|25000}} |- ! Siddhartha Bank | {{NPR|500-650}} || |- ! Standard Chartered | {{NPR|500}} || {{NPR|25000}} |- ! Laxmi Sunrise Bank | {{NPR|600}} || {{NPR|35000}} |- ! citizens Bank International | {{NPR|600}} || {{NPR|25000}} |- ! Everest Bank | {{NPR|625}} || {{NPR|25000}} |- ! Global IME Bank | {{NPR|625}} || {{NPR|25000}} |- ! NMB Bank | {{NPR|660}} || {{NPR|25000}} |- ! Nabil Bank | {{NPR|700}} || {{NPR|40000}} (ATM incorrectly shows {{NPR|35000}}) |} ==Eat== {{see also|South Asian cuisine}} [[File:2015-03-18 Dal Bhat Tarkari,Nagarkot DSCF2224.jpg|thumb|Dal bhat tarkari]] The Nepali national meal is '''daal-bhaat-tarkaari'''. It is spiced lentils poured over boiled rice, and served with tarkari: vegetables cooked with spices. This is served in most Nepalese homes and teahouses, two meals a day at about 10:00 and 19:00 or 20:00 If rice is scarce the grain part may be cornmeal mush called aata, barley, or sukkha roti (whole wheat 'tortillas'). The meal may be accompanied by '''dahi''' (yogurt) and a small helping of ultra-spicy fresh '''chutney''' or '''achaar''' (pickle). Traditionally this meal is eaten with the right hand. Curried meat, goat or chicken, is an occasional luxury, and freshwater fish is often available near lakes and rivers. Because Hindus hold cattle to be sacred, beef is not part of traditional Nepali cuisine, but can still be obtained for a high price in some expensive restaurants. Buffalo and yak are eaten by some but considered too cow-like by others. Pork is eaten by some tribes, but not by upper-caste Hindus. As in India, there are some communities and tribes that are vegetarian. Outside the main morning and evening meals, a variety of snacks may be available. Tea, made with milk and sugar is certainly a pick-me-up. Corn may be heated and partially popped, although it really isn't popcorn. This is called "kha-jaa", meaning "eat and run". Rice may be heated and crushed into "chiura" resembling uncooked oatmeal that can be eaten with yogurt, hot milk and sugar, or other flavourings. Fritters called 'pakora' and turnovers called "samosa" can sometimes be found, as can sweets made from sugar, milk, fried batter, sugar cane juice, etc. Be sure such delicacies are either freshly cooked or have been protected from flies. Otherwise flies land in the human waste that is everywhere in the streets, then on your food, and so you become a walking medical textbook of gastrological conditions. Because of the multi-ethnic nature of Nepali society, differing degrees of adherence to Hindu dietary norms, and the extreme range of climates and micro-climates throughout the country, different ethnic communities often have their own specialties. Newars, an ethnic group originally living in the Kathmandu Valley, are food-lovers who lament that feasting is their downfall, whereas sexual indulgence is said to be the downfall of Pahari Chhetri. In the fertile Kathmandu and Pokhara valleys there is more variety in ingredients, particularly vegetables, than what is available in most of the hills. As such, Newari cuisine is quite distinct and diverse relatively compared to the other indigenous regional cuisines of Nepal, so watch for Newari restaurants. Some of them even come with cultural shows: a good way to enjoy good food while having a crash-course in Nepalese culture. [[File:Momo, Nepal.JPG|thumb|Momo]] The cuisine of the Terai lowlands is almost the same as in adjacent parts of India. Locally-grown tropical fruits are sold alongside subtropical and temperate temperate crops from the hills. In addition to bananas ('kera') and papayas ('mewa') familiar to travellers, jackfruit ('katar') is a local delicacy. Some dishes, particularly in the Himalayan region, are Tibetan in origin and not at all spicy. Some dishes to look for include '''momos''', a meat or vegetable filled dumpling, which is similar to Chinese pot-stickers. Momos has become very popular in past few decades. Momos can be found almost everywhere in Kathmandu and other towns in Nepal, whether it be a big hotel or a small restaurant. Other dishes like '''Tibetan Bread and Honey''' a puffy fried bread with heavy raw honey that's great for breakfast. Up in the Himalayan mountains, potatoes are the staple of the Sherpa people. Try the local dish of potato pancakes (''rikikul''). They are delicious eaten straight off the griddle and covered with dzo (female yak) butter or cheese. Pizza, Mexican, Thai and Chinese food and Middle-Eastern food can all be found in the tourist districts of [[Kathmandu]], [[Pokhara]] and [[Chitwan]]. If you are on a budget, eating local dishes will save money. Many small restaurants are not prepared to cook several different dishes; try to stick with one or two dishes or you will find yourself waiting as the cook tries to make one after another on a one-burner stove in those small restaurants. As far as possible, eat only Nepali village products. If you take only village product foods, it will help them economically. ==Drink== [[File:Everest beer.jpg|thumb|Everest beer]] '''Alcohol:''' *'''Raksi''' is a clear liquid with around 45% ABV. It is usually brewed "in house", resulting in a variation in its taste and strength. This is by far the least expensive drink in the country. It is often served on special occasions in small, ceramic cups (Salinchha in Newar language) that hold less than a shot. It works well as a mixer in fruit juice or seltzer. It may appear on menus as "Nepali wine". *'''Jaand''' (Nepali) or '''chyaang''' (Tibetan) is a cloudy, moderately alcoholic drink sometimes called "Nepali beer". Mostly it is made from rice, specially in Newari culture. While less alcoholic than raksi, it will still have quite an effect. This is often offered to guests in Nepali homes, and is diluted with water. For your safety, ask guests if the water has been sanitised before drinking this beverage. *'''Beer''' production in Nepal has reached international quality standards. Everest and Gorkha are two popular local brands and are also exported. International brands are available in urban areas. *'''Cocktails''' can pretty much only be found in [[Kathmandu]] and [[Pokhara]]'s tourist areas. There you can get watered-down "two for one drinks" at a variety of pubs, restaurants and sports bars. '''Tea:''' [[File:Lush Green Tea Gardens are what makes Ilam district popular. (By Saroj Pandey).jpg|thumb|Tea gardens in Ilam]] Although not internationally famous, Nepal has a large tea industry. Most plantations are in the east of the country and the type of tea grown is very similar to that produced in neighbouring [[Darjeeling]]. Well known varieties are Dhankuta, Illam, Jhapa, Terathhum and Panchthar (all named after their growing regions). Over 70% of Nepal's tea is exported and the tea you see for sale in Thamel, while they serve as token mementos, are merely the scrapings from the bottom of the barrel. *'''Milk tea''' is boiled milk with added tea, with or without sugar. *'''Chai''' is tea with added milk and also sometimes containing ginger and spices such as cardamom. *'''Suja''' is salty tea made with milk and butter - only available in areas inhabited by Tibetans, Sherpas and a few other Himalayan people. *'''Herbal teas''' are mostly made from wild flowers from the [[Solu Khumbu]] region. In Kathmandu, these teas are generally only served in high class establishments or those run by Sherpas from the Solu Khumbu. ==Sleep== Budget accommodation in Nepal ranges from around Rs250 to around Rs750 for a double. The prices you are told at first are not fixed so you should haggle. Especially if you want to stay for a longer period, you can get a large discount. Cheaper rooms usually do not have sheets, blankets, towels, or anything else besides a bed and a door. Most budget hotels and guesthouses have a wide range of rooms, so be sure to see what you are getting, even if you have stayed there before. Usual price for three-star equivalent hotel (AC, bathroom, Internet access and satellite TV in the room) is around Rs1,500 for a double, a bit more in Kathmandu. Accommodations might easily be the cheapest part of your budget in Nepal. However, if you prefer luxurious accommodation, the best hotels equal approximately to four star hotels in western countries (unlimited access to swimming pool or whirlpool, no power outages, room service, very good restaurant and buffet breakfasts). Expect the price being much higher (circa US$50 for a double or US$100 for an apartment, even more in Kathmandu). In these hotels, all prices are usually fixed. In Kathmandu, some luxurious hotels require going through security check when entering. ==Learn== ===Thangka painting=== *'''Tsering Art School''', offers a Thangka painting course. A minimum study period of 3 months a year for 3 years is recommended. Due to the sacred nature of this art form, those who wish to study here must have taken refuge in the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, and be Buddhist. There are no boarding facilities offered at the Tsering Art School for foreign students. The school fees are Rs1,600 per month. Basic drawing and painting implements are required and can be purchased in Nepal. For study enquiries and enrolments contact the school administrator, Miss Lobsang Dolma by email on: zorig@asia.com ==Work== ===Volunteering=== Visitors to Nepal should be aware that it is illegal to do volunteering "work" on a tourist Visa. In order to volunteer legally, the organisation who will engage you must obtain for you a non-tourist visa. Unfortunately, volunteer tourism has mostly become more profitable than real tourism. Foreign operators and Nepali agents have found an inexhaustible supply of well-meaning but naive people who will pay sometimes even big amounts to "volunteer" in Thamel, Lakeside and Chitwan. See [[Volunteer travel#Be wary]]. [[Teaching English]] is a popular project for volunteers and is often combined with courses in computer literacy or health and physical education. The Nepali school system, which many children only attend for a few years, requires English fluency so there is always a demand for native English speakers of all ages, races and nationalities. There have been few prerequisites for teaching beyond fluency in English. Be aware that many schools, especially private ones, charge families higher fees if "foreign teachers present" and often locally available English teachers may not be able to find work because of the number of foreign mostly illegally engaged foreign volunteers, many of whom may be illegally employed. If you want to teach, a school may request and obtain a non tourist visa for you so you can teach legally. There are many options for finding volunteer opportunities. Several international volunteer organisations, will find you a project, room and boarding, either at the school or with a local family for a fee. This "fee" can range from US$500-2000 depending on the type and length of program. Often only little of that money will go to the school and host family, often they are too poor even to support a volunteer, so the bulk often goes to the agency. Some organisations will provide language and culture lessons as well as general teaching supplies and support. Once you make a deposit on a particular program there may be limited options for change. Programs can last from two weeks to five months if made in tourist visa, but keep in mind a regular, legal work and a longer stay may be more rewarding for both you and the school, as it can take several weeks to get into the swing of things. Above all, examine carefully how your money is spent and who really benefits. [[File:Mount Everest a close view with south summit and yellow band.jpg|thumb|View to the summit of Mount Everest]] An alternative to paid placement is to find a local, grassroots program, or to contact schools directly in Kathmandu when you arrive. Local hostels and restaurants usually have bulletin boards full of often doubtful requests for volunteers. More and more local groups are placing ads on the web as well. These programs are more likely to charge only for room and board, but you will need to do some research to find out the specifics of each group and what, if any, support you will receive. Waiting until you arrive also lets you get to know the areas you can volunteer in and allows you to shop around for a situation that best suits you. These placements tend to be longer term (3-5 months), but this is always negotiable with a specific school or project. Always check if your engagement does not take away work of other people and that your volunteer work is done legally and that the community profits from the deal. Report to police or other serious NGO/INGO any kind of misuse. Always demand written receipts with complete organisation address, stamp and signatures. This helps to prevent siphoning off precious development funds, which generally tend to not reach the intended beneficiaries most of time. Estimates go from 85-95% for funds spent on "logistics", "office expenses", "allowances", vehicles and so forth. ==Stay safe== {{Warningbox|Violent anti-government protests erupted in Nepal. While the protests have calmed, thousands of prisoners have escaped. Curfews are being lifted off by authorities, but a prohibition on protests around key installations are still maintained. Censorship of social media was rolled back, but could be reinstated. Likewise, Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the country's main airport, could be closed again if protests erupt again. All foreigners who hold valid visas through 8 September 2025 can obtain free exit permits and visa regularisation at any immigration offices or at points of departure. Stay away from any protests, stay tuned to the latest news, and pay attention to any evacuation information by your country.|australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/nepal|canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/nepal|uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/nepal|nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/destinations/nepal|lastedit=2025-09-18|india=https://www.mea.gov.in/advisories-details.htm?50|de=https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/service/laender/nepal-node/nepalsicherheit-221216}} [[File:Nepal soldiers.jpg|thumb|Members of Nepal's Armed Police Force pose with tourists]] === Political extremism === Sometimes, there are '''strikes''' ("bandas") and demonstrations to contend with. Some businesses close, but many allowances are usually made for tourists, who are widely respected. Ask about strikes at your hotel or read the English language Nepali newspapers. The Maoist insurgency ended in 2006 after they signed comprehensive peace agreement with the government, in which they agreed to become a mainstream political party and participate in elections. The government is in the hand of Nepali Congress as it wins the election of 2014. Due to the change in government the tourists are now much more safer than before. The trekking routes and other tourist destinations are safe for travel. If your country has an embassy or consulate in Nepal, let them know your whereabouts & plans, and at least listen seriously to any cautionary advice they offer. It is not unheard of for Maoist "tax collectors" to collect "revolutionary taxes" from trekkers. They may approach you as a large group. Even though this is effectively extortion, it is not always an unfriendly encounter and should not assume the worst. They will usually provide a receipt for the tax and claim that it will provide you with security and safe passage within the area that you are in. It is best to defer to your guide and if your guide suggests that you pay the tax, accept the recommendation. You can negotiate and haggle, or refuse outright, and they will either press harder, threaten you or leave you alone entirely. This has become progressively rarer since the Maoist insurgency ended in 2006 (especially on the trek to the Everest Base Camp) but is still imposed in some areas. [[File:Nepal earthquake 2015 Tripureswor, Kathmandu.jpg|thumb|A destroyed building in Kathmandu after the 2015 earthquake]] === Earthquake risk === [[Earthquakes]] are common across Nepal. The lack of emergency equipment and poorly resourced medical facilities is likely to worsen an earthquake’s impact. For example, the 2015 Nepal Earthquake killed nearly 9,000 people and destroyed over 600,000 homes. The [https://www.nset.org.np/nset2012/ National Society of Earthquake Technology (NSET)] gives advice on what to do in an earthquake, check with your tour operator to find out what contingency plans they have for an earthquake. Following a significant earthquake you should expect transport, accommodation and basic services in affected areas to be disrupted. Relief efforts are likely to be a priority for the authorities. Check with your tour company or hotel for further information on whether travel to an area is appropriate. === Pickpocketing === Nepal's cities are safer than most, and even pickpockets are rare. It's relatively safe for women and solo travellers as compared to many other South Asian countries. Nevertheless, don't flash cash or make ostentatious displays of wealth. It is advised to take trekking guide when trekking to a Himalayan region. === Transportation risk === Be cautious with public transport. Roads are narrow, steep, winding & frequently crowded. Domestic flights are safer than the roads. Flying risks are greatest before & during the monsoon season when the mountains are usually clouded over. === Medical evacuation === If you should be seriously injured or sick where there are no roads or airports, '''medical evacuation''' by helicopter may be your only option. If there is no firm guarantee that the bill will be paid, companies offering these services may demur, so look into '''insurance''' covering medical evacuations. You might ask if your embassy or consulate guarantees payment. ==Stay healthy== [[File:Samosa11.jpg|thumb|Samosas for sale on the [[street food|street]] in Kathmandu]] *'''Minimizing gastrointestinal problems''' - Since most of Nepal still gets along without modern sanitation, these are endemic. They range from self-limiting attacks of diarrhea where dehydration is the main risk, through intestinal parasites, amoebic dysentery and giardiasis which are chronic without proper medical treatment, to immediately life-threatening infections like cholera and typhoid. Habituation even to common intestinal flora generally takes about a year and many unpleasant bouts of stomach problems, so tourists contemplating shorter stays should take extensive precautions. Filter or treat your own water, use bottled water, checking to make sure lid is sealed (limit use of bottled water since there's no place to dispose of the used bottles) or stick with beverages made from water that has been thoroughly '''boiled and filtered'''. Tea or coffee from cafes catering to tourists are 'generally' safe. See also [[Travellers' diarrhea]]. **'''[[Water]]''' is unsafe for drinking without being chemically treated or boiled, which is one reason to stick to tea or bottled water. It may be possible to buy filtered, treated water in cities and many villages. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) has installed a number of safe water stations along the Annapurna Circuit where water may be purchased for a reasonable cost. ** '''When trekking''' carry iodine or other chemical means of treating water and be sure to follow directions, i.e. don't drink the water before the specified time interval to ensure that resistant cysts are deactivated. In trailside teashops, although glasses may be washed in questionable water, tea is made by pouring boiling water through tea dust into your glass. The chances of disease-causing organisms surviving that are small but not zero. **'''Brush teeth''' with prepared drinking water and avoid water entering the mouth when showering. **'''Salads''', especially in the wet season, should be treated as suspect. Some restaurants wash salad greens with lightly iodised water to make it safe. **'''Wash hands''' regularly and especially before eating. Carry hand sanitiser and use it regularly. **'''Thoroughly wash''' fruit and vegetables for raw consumption using boiled and filtered water. Also consider peeling them. ** Look for freshly-cooked food and avoid anything that has been cooked and then left sitting around without refrigeration (which can expose you to a buildup of harmful bacteria), or without protection from flies (which can transfer disease-causing organisms and parasite eggs to the food). ** Also see the '''[[Travellers' diarrhea]]''' article. * '''Get vaccinated and consider prophylactic treatment.''' You may be exposed to typhoid, cholera, hepatitis malaria and possibly even rabies. Read the article on '''[[Tropical diseases]]''' and review travel plans with your health care provider. *'''Practice safe sex''' or do without. Nepali women are sought after in India and the Middle East and so there is human trafficking. Victims may be allowed to return home when health issues become a liability, then continue 'working' as long as possible. The incidence of STDs is rising and the government has not always been proactive about treatment and promoting awareness. Unless your Nepali is extremely fluent, your chances of finding out about a prospective partner's sexual history are slim. [[File:Warning of Acute Mountain Sickness - Annapurna Circuit, Nepal - panoramio.jpg|thumb|Acute Mountain Sickness warning sign, Annapurna Circuit]] *'''[[Altitude sickness]]''' Permanent snow lines are between 5,500 m and 5,800 m (18,000 ft and 19,000 ft), so base camps and passes in the Himalaya are usually higher than Mount Blanc or Mount Whitney. This puts even experienced mountain climbers at risk of altitude-related medical conditions that can be life-threatening. Risks can be minimised by choosing routes that don't go high, such as Pokhara-Jomosom, or routes and trekking companies where gamow bags or other treatment are available, and by sleeping not more than 300 m (1,000 ft) higher per day. According to the "climb high, sleep low" mantra, it is good to take daytime conditioning hikes that push acclimation, then to return to a more reasonable elevation at night. * '''Hypothermia''' is a risk, especially if you are trekking in spring, autumn or winter to avoid heat at low elevations. When it is a comfortable 30°C (85°F) in the Terai, it is likely to be in the teens Fahrenheit or -10°C (14°F) at that base camp or high pass. Either be prepared to hike ''and'' sleep in these temperatures (and make sure your comrades, guides and porters are equally prepared), or choose a trek that doesn't go high. For example, at 3,000m (10,000ft) expect daytime temperatures in the 40s Fahrenheit or 5 to 10°C. * [[Rabies]] - Dogs are not vaccinated and catch this fatal disease from other dogs or wild animals with some regularity. All mammals are potentially vulnerable. Dogs are considered ritually polluting and are widely abused, so it can be impossible to know whether a dog bit you because it is paranoid about people or because it is rabid. You should be vaccinated against rabies before going to Nepal, but this is not absolute protection. Be on the lookout for mammals acting disoriented or hostile and stay as far away as possible. Do not pet dogs, cats or pigs no matter how cute. Keep a distance from monkeys, especially in places like the Monkey Temple (Swayambunath) in Kathmandu. If bitten or exposed to saliva, seek medical attention. You may need an extended series of injections that provides a higher level of protection than routine vaccination. * [[Dangerous snakes|Snakebite]] - The risk is greatest in warm weather and at elevations below 1,500 m (5,000 ft). Poisonous snakes are fairly common and cause thousands of deaths annually. Local people may be able to differentiate poisonous and non-poisonous species. Cobras raise their bodies in the air and spread their hoods when annoyed; itinerant snake charmers are likely to have specimens for your edification. Vipers have triangular heads and may have thick bodies like venomous snakes in North America. Kraits may be the most dangerous due to innocuous appearance and extremely potent neurotoxin venom. Kraits are strangely passive in daylight but become active at night, especially around dwellings where they hunt rodents. Krait bites may be initially painless, causing only numbness. However without proper antivenin numbness can progress to deadly paralysis, even with bites from small, seemingly harmless specimens. Wearing proper shoes and trousers rather than sandals and shorts provides some protection. Watch where you put your feet and hands, and use a torch when walking outside at night. Sleeping on elevated beds and on second stories helps protect against nocturnal kraits. ==Respect== Greet people with a warm '''Namaste''' (or "Namaskar" formal version - to an older or high-status person) with palms together, fingers up. It is used in place of hello or goodbye. Don't say it more than once per person, per day. The least watered down definition of the word: 'The divine in me salutes the divine in you.' Show respect to elders. Say Thank you: Dhanyabaad /'ðɅnjɅbɑ:d/ (Dhan-ya-baad) '''Feet''' are considered dirty. Don't point the bottoms of your feet at people or religious icons. Do not step over a person who may be seated or lying on the ground. Be sensitive to when it is proper to remove your hat or shoes. It is proper to take off your shoes before entering a residential house. The '''left hand''' is considered unclean because it is used to wash after defecating. Many Nepali hotel & guest house toilets have bidet attachments, like a kitchen sink sprayer, for this purpose in lieu of toilet paper. It is considered insulting to touch anyone with the left hand. It is proper to poke someone, take and give something with the right hand. '''Circumambulate''' Buddhist shrines and temples, chortens, stupas, mani walls, monasteries etc. in a '''clockwise''' direction. Hindu shrines and temples have no such practice. [[File:Market, Basantapur Square (5197844315).jpg|thumb|Merchandise at a market in the capital]] When '''[[haggling]]''' over prices, smile, laugh and be friendly. Be prepared to allow a reasonable profit. Don't be a miser or insult the quality of the goods on offer. Many [[Sacred sites of the Indian sub-continent#Hindu|'''Hindu temples''']] do not allow non-Hindus inside certain parts of the temple complex. Be aware & respectful of this fact, as these are places of worship, not tourist attractions. Being a non-Hindu makes you moderately ''impure'' to some strict Hindus. Avoid touching containers of water; let someone pour it into your drinking container. Likewise avoid touching food that others will be eating. Make sure you are invited before entering someone's house. You may only be welcome on the outer porch, or in the yard. Shoes are routinely left on the front porch or in a specific area near the front door. '''Wash hands''' before and after eating. Touch food only with the '''right hand''' if you're not left-handed. ==Connect== Internet connectivity is increasing rapidly, and obviously its availability is most widespread in [[Kathmandu]] (especially in Thamel and around the Boudha Stupa in Boudhanath) or [[Pokhara]]. In those two cities, most hotels and lodges will have free Internet connection with Wi-Fi. So will many restaurants. More and more villages will have Internet available at some lodges, usually with Wi-Fi. For example, in 2013, Wi-Fi was available in lodges in Jomsom and Muktinath. In the more remote villages, however, there may only be the occasional Internet cafe that is available. For example, Chame (on the Annapurna circuit) has an Internet cafe with secured Wi-Fi for Rs15 per minute. Even more remote villages may have Internet via satellite connection, but it is quite pricey at over Rs100 per minute. '''Mail''' can be received at many guesthouses or at Everest Postal Care, opposite Fire & Ice on Tridevi Marg. Phone calls are best made from any of the international phone offices in [[Kathmandu]]. Voice over Internet (VOI) is usually Rs1-2/min. Mobile phones are the best option (see below). ===Mobile phones=== There are two main mobile operators in Nepal: government-run NTC (Nepal Telecom Company) and private Ncell (previously called Spice Mobile and Mero Mobile). Both operators allow tourists to buy SIM cards for about Rs200 in Kathmandu and most major towns. You will need to bring a passport photo, fill in a form and have your passport and visa page photocopied. [https://www.ncell.com.np/en Ncell] SIMs can be bought from many stores, but are best bought from official stores in Birgunj or Kathmandu. Micro SIMs can be cut for free if you need. [https://www.ntc.net.np/ NTC] SIMs can be bought from their official offices and mobile stores across the country. They do not publish their coverage maps. However they do have superior remote coverage to Ncell, particularly on the Annapurna, Everest and other trekking routes. ===Electricity=== [[File:Multi plug.jpg|thumbnail|150px|Typical wall socket that accepts multiple plug types (A, B, C, E, F, G, I, D)]] In Nepal, various types of electric [[Electrical systems#Plugs, sockets and adapters|plugs and sockets]] are common. The most common '''plug''' types to be found on devices are C (Europlug), F ("Schuko"), G (UK), D and M. '''Sockets''' mostly accept multiple types of plugs. Most modern wall sockets will accept types A, B, C, E, F, G, I and D. Some will additionally support type M. Note that the European plugs (types C, E and F) will typically sit rather loosely in these "universal sockets", so it can be advisable to use an adapter. Occasionally you may also see older sockets which only support types D and M. However, at least one "modern" socket will usually be present in a room. Adapters can be purchased inexpensively in Kathmandu for around ₨100, and some have fuses built in. Try shopping in Thamel or the Kumari Arcade in Kathmandu. Electricity on treks can be scarce. In remote parts there may only be solar powered electricity. Expect to pay Rs100-200 per hour to charge devices on many tea-house treks, including the Everest base camp trek. If you have devices that will need regular recharging, you may wish to purchase in advance a small solar panel and battery pack. ==Go next== *[[Mount Kailash]] - in Tibet, a short distance beyond the North West corner of Nepal. Hindu and Buddhist cosmology describes the cosmos as a central mountain, Mount Meru, surrounded by the earth's continents and seas, then by the rest of the universe. Cambodia's [[Angkor Wat]] temple complex is an architectural representation of this schema. As geographical knowledge developed, Mount Kailash was proclaimed the physical manifestation of Mount Meru. It is the hydrological hub of the subcontinent. The Karnali, Sutlej Indus and Brahmaputra rivers all begin near this mountain. Hindus and Buddhists gain religious merit by circumambulating the mountain. {{related|Sacred_sites_of_the_Indian_sub-continent}} {{isPartOf|South_Asia}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|28|84|zoom=7}} 9otlxx8hl9wnjlkmd82ufvjeuzhrm2g 5288972 5288959 2026-06-07T03:49:42Z SHB2000 2248002 Reverted edits by [[Special:Contributions/Kurstak6451|Kurstak6451]] ([[User talk:Kurstak6451|talk]]) to last version by [[User:InternetArchiveBot|InternetArchiveBot]] 5283169 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner |Boudha Stupa Kathmandu banner.jpg|caption=Boudha Stupa, Kathmandu}} '''Nepal''' ([[Nepali phrasebook|Nepali]]: नेपाल ''Nepāl'') is a landlocked country in the [[Himalayas]] of [[South Asia]]. It has eight of the world's 10 highest peaks, including [[Mount Everest]], the world's tallest, on the border with [[Tibet]], as well as [[Lumbini]], the birthplace of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Originally a monarchy for two centuries, Nepal has been ruled under a republic since 2008. ==Regions== Nepal is divided into 7 provinces and 77 districts for administrative purposes, but Wikivoyage uses the divisions below, based on the country's elevation, which are more useful for travellers. From north to south: {{Regionlist | regionmap=Nepal-regions-map.png | regionmaptext=Regions of Nepal | regionmapsize=480px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[Himalayas (Nepal)|Himalayas]] | region1color=#748ab7 | region1description=The roof of the world, including [[Mount Everest]], [[Annapurna]], [[Langtang National Park]] and [[The Great Himalaya Trail]] with numerous sightseeing, trekking and other adventure sport opportunities. | region2name=[[Kathmandu Valley]] | region2color=#c55a26 | region2description=Home to [[Kathmandu]], [[Patan]] and [[Bhaktapur]], this is in the heart of Nepal and a crossroads of cultures with numerous temples and monuments. | region3name=[[Middle Hills]] | region3color=#b6b65f | region3description=The Hill Region (''Pahar'' in Nepali) is mostly between 700 and 4,000 metres altitude. This region is split from the Terai Range by the Mahabharat Lekh (Lesser Himalaya) and forms a geographic midlands between the Terai and the Himalayas. It includes the scenic [[Pokhara]] Valley, a popular base for activities in the area. | region4name=[[Western Tarai]] | region4color=#945394 | region4description=The western side of the Terai place with the [[Chitwan National Park]] and [[Bardia National Park]]. Also home to [[Lumbini]], the birthplace of Buddha. | region5name=[[Eastern Tarai]] | region5color=#50b250 | region5description=A populated area with [[Biratnagar]], Nepal's second-largest city. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#748ab7|title=[[Himalayas (Nepal)|Himalayas]]|wikidata=Q28601,Q28592,Q28623,Q28593,Q28610,Q2239575,Q28434,Q28476,Q29275,Q28436,Q28624,Q28454,Q28430,Q28605,Q28445,Q28621,Q28363,Q28596,Q28590}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c55a26|title=[[Kathmandu Valley]]|wikidata=Q797472,Q1108338,Q28451}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b6b65f|title=[[Middle Hills]]|wikidata=Q28071,Q28102,Q28619,Q28076,Q28594,Q28600,Q28426,Q28443,Q29430,Q53018063,Q51844688,Q28162,Q28421,Q28448,Q28446,Q28611,Q29026,Q28599,Q2284812,Q28081,Q28585,Q28155,Q29016,Q28589,Q28571,Q28597,Q28094,Q28432,Q28440,Q28572,Q28174,Q28586,Q28582,Q28569}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#945394|title=[[Western Tarai]]|wikidata=Q28583,Q50822475,Q50824791,Q28438,Q28574,Q28066,Q28447,Q28458,Q28153,Q28981,Q28588}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#50b250|title=[[Eastern Tarai]]|wikidata=Q25104009,Q28160,Q28083,Q28157}} ==Cities== <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> [[File:Kathmandu Valley.jpg|thumb|Kathmandu Valley]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kathmandu]]|wikidata=Q3037}} — capital and cultural centre of Nepal, with its Hanumandhoka Durbar Square and the stupas at [[Boudhanath]] and [[Swayambhunath]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bhaktapur]]|wikidata=Q843138}} — a well-preserved historical city, centre of pilgrimage and Nepali pottery-making; no motorised vehicles allowed. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Biratnagar]]|wikidata=Q8247}} — an important agricultural and industrial centre, and a centre for politics in eastern Nepal. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Janakpur]]|wikidata=Q378649}} — a historical religious centre and home to the 500-year old Janaki Temple. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Namche Bazaar]]|wikidata=Q376123}} — a Sherpa settlement in the Solu Khumbu region popular with trekkers. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nepalgunj]]|wikidata=Q1025462}} — the main hub for the Mid- and Far-Western Development Region; Bardiya National Park and Banke National Park are close by. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Patan]]|wikidata=Q6647}} — beautiful, historic Patan Durbar Square was designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pokhara]]|wikidata=Q6640}} — picturesque lake-side town fast becoming the destination of choice for travellers due to the scenery, adventure sports, dining, hotels and live music scene. <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> ==Other destinations== Locked between the snow peaks of the [[Himalayas]] and the seething [[Plains (India)|Gangetic Plain of India]], Nepal has long been home to wandering ascetics and tantric yogis. Consequently, the country has a wealth of sacred sites and natural wonders: [[File:Alpenglow on Everest.jpg|thumb|Alpenglow on Everest]] * {{marker|name=[[Annapurna]]|wikidata=Q159621}} — Popular trekking region of Nepal with the world-famous [[Annapurna Circuit]]. * {{marker|name=[[Chitwan National Park]]|wikidata=Q1075023}} — World Heritage site with tigers, rhinos and jungle animals. * {{marker|name=[[Daman (Nepal)|Daman]]|wikidata=Q5211940}} — Tiny village in the mountains offering panoramic views of the Himalayas; especially stunning at sunrise and sunset. * {{marker|name=[[Haleshi]]|wikidata=Q14217508}} (Tibetan: ''Maratika'') — The site of a mountain cave where Padmasambhava attained a state beyond life and death. * {{marker|name=[[Lumbini]]|wikidata=Q9213}} — The sacred site of the Buddha Shakyamuni's birth. * {{marker|name=[[Khumbu|Mount Everest]]|wikidata=Q1428329}} — The tallest peak of the world. * {{marker|name=[[Nagarkot]]|wikidata=Q1025470}} — A hill station one hour from Kathmandu offering excellent views of the Himalayan Range. * {{marker|name=[[Parping]]|wikidata=Q14228858}} — The site of several sacred caves associated with Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. * {{marker|name=[[Tangting]]|wikidata=Q14236154}} — A beautiful and undiscovered traditional Gurung village with a stunning view of the Annapurna range. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationNepal.png}} ===Geography=== [[File:Sunset in Terai, Nepal.jpg|thumb|Sunset in Tarai]] [[File:Annapurna Base Camp Sunrise.jpg|thumb|Annapurna Base Camp sunrise]] Nepal can be divided into the follwoing geographic regions, south to north: * '''Outer Tarai''' — Level plains, a cultural and linguistic extension of northern India. Here Nepali speakers are outnumbered by [[Awadhi]], [[Bhojpuri]] and [[Maithili]] languages. [[Lumbini]] and [[Janakpur]] are major tourist and pilgrimage spots here, with most other cities being transport hubs for travel between India and Nepal. It offer opportunities for intimate exposure to traditional Indian culture that have become less available in India itself. * '''Sivalik Range''' or '''Churia Hills''' — the outermost and lowest range of the Himalayas, about {{m|600}} high. Extends across the country east to west but with significant gaps and many subranges. The area is largely undeveloped due to poor soil and no agriculture, and is home to primitive hunter-gatherers. * '''Inner Tarai''' — Large valleys between the Sivaliks and the higher mountain ranges. The '''Dang''' and '''Deukhuri''' valleys in the Mid West are the largest, offering opportunities to experience Tharu art and culture. '''Chitwan''' south of Kathmandu is another of these valleys, known for the Chitwan National Park, a {{unesco}} where tigers, rhinos, crocodiles, deer and birds can be observed. Originally these valleys were malarial and lightly populated by '''Tharus''' who had evolved resistance and developed architectural and behavioural adaptations limiting exposure to the most dangerous nocturnal mosquitoes. Suppression of mosquitoes with DDT in the 1960s opened these valleys to settlers from the hills who cleared forests and displaced and exploited Tharus. Nevertheless, more remote parts of these valleys still have the Garden of Eden quality - forests broken by indefinite fields, lazy rivers, fascinating aboriginal peoples. * '''Mahabharat Range''' — A prominent continuous mountain range, except for narrow transecting canyons, with elevations ascending up to {{m|3000}}. Steep southern slopes are a no-man's land between lowland and '''Pahari''' (hill) cultures and languages, which begin along the crest and gentler northern slopes. Given clear skies, there are panoramic views of the high Himalayas from almost anywhere on the crest. It is underdeveloped as a tourist venue compared to [[Hill stations in India|India's hill stations]], although there are destinations like [[Daman (Nepal)|Daman]] and [[Tansen]]. * '''Middle Hills''' — Valleys north of the Mahabharat Range and hills up to about {{m|2,000}}. It is mainly inhabited by Hindus of the '''Bahun''' (priestly Brahmin) and '''Chhetri''' (warriors and rulers) castes who speak Nepali as their first language. Higher where it becomes too cold to grow rice, populations are largely '''Magar''', '''Gurung''', '''Tamang''', '''Rai''' or '''Limbu''', the '''hill tribes''' from which the British recruited '''Gurkha''' soldiers while the soldiers' families grew crops suited to temperate climates. Men in these ethnic groups also work as porters or may be herders moving their flocks into the high mountains in summer and the lower valleys in winter. Trekking through the hills is unremittingly scenic with streams and terraced fields, picturesque villages, a variety of ethnic groups with distinctive costumes, and views of the high Himalayas from high points. * '''Valleys''' — '''[[Kathmandu]]''' and to the west '''[[Pokhara]]''' occupy large valleys in the hills. The Kathmandu Valley was urbanised long before the first Europeans reached the scene and has historic neighbourhoods, temple complexes, pagodas, Buddhist stupas, palaces and bazaars. Its natives are predominantly '''Newar''' farmers, traders, craftsmen and civil servants. Newar culture is an interesting synthesis of Hindu and Buddhist elements. Unfortunately a range of hills north of this valley limit views of the Himalaya. Pokhara has fewer urban points of interest but outstanding views of the nearby '''[[Annapurna]]'''. Pokhara's Newar population is confined to bazaars. Elsewhere upper caste Hindus dominate, whose ancestors probably were '''Khas''' peoples from far western Nepal. Both valleys offer excellent opportunities to experience Nepal without strenuous trekking. Narrower valleys along streams and rivers are important rice-growing centres in the hills. There is a limited amount of this land and most of it is owned by upper caste Hindus. * '''Lekhs''' — Snow occasionally falls and lasts days or weeks in the winter above {{m|3,000}}, but melts in summer below about {{m|5,500}}. Treeline is about {{m|4,000}}. This zone is used for summer pastures but not year-round habitation. North of the lekhs, the snowy high Himalayas rise abruptly along a fault zone to peaks over 6,700 m (22,000 ft) and even over 8,000 m (26,000 ft). Himalaya means 'abode of snow', which is uninhabited. Valleys among the peaks are inhabited, especially along trade routes where rice from the lowlands was traded for salt from the Tibetan Plateau along with other goods. Trade has diminished since [[China]] annexed [[Tibet]] in the 1950s but catering to trekkers and climbers has become an economic engine. People living along these routes have Tibetan affinities but usually speak fluent Nepali. * '''Trans-Himalaya''' — Peaks in this region north of the highest Himalayas in central and western Nepal are lower and gentler, mostly around {{m|6,000}}. Valleys below {{m|5,000}}. It is inhabited by the '''Tibetans''' and have adapted to living at much higher elevations than other Nepalis. Roads have not yet penetrated this far and travel is expensive by air or arduous on foot. Nevertheless, it is a unique opportunity to experience a very significant and attractive culture in spectacular surroundings. ====River basins==== These are also important geographic divisions. The '''Mahabharat Range''' is a major hydrologic barrier in Nepal and other parts of the Himalaya. South-flowing rivers converge in '''candelabra''' shapes to break through this range in a few narrow gorges. Travel is usually easier within these candelabra drainage systems than between them, so high divides between river systems became historically important political, linguistic and cultural boundaries. ===History=== [[File:Kathmandu valley scene Shivapuri Nagarjun.JPG|thumb|Kathmandu Valley]] =====Karnali-Seti-Bheri===== The '''Karnali''' system in the far west is the birthplace of Pahari ('hill') culture. It was settled by people called the '''Khas''', speaking an '''Indo-European''' language called '''Khaskura''' ('Khas talk') that was related to other north Indian languages and all claiming descent from classical '''Sanskrit'''. East of the Karnali proper, along a major tributary called the '''Bheri''' and further east in another basin called the '''Rapti''' lived a Tibeto-Burman people called '''Kham'''. Khas and Kham people seem to have been allies and probably intermarried to create the synthesis of aryan and mongoloid features that especially characterises the second-highest '''Chhetri''' (Kshatriya) caste. It appears that Khas kings recruited Kham men as guards and soldiers. Khas and Kham territories in the far west were subdivided into small kingdoms called the '''Baisi''', literally '22' as they were counted. Nepal has one of the world's highest birthrates because Hindu women usually marry by their early teens, causing their entire reproductive potential to be utilised. Furthermore, men who can afford it often take multiple wives. This may trace back to Khas culture, explaining relentless Khas colonisation eastward as finite amounts of land suitable for rice cultivation were inevitably outstripped by high birthrates. =====Rapti and Gandaki===== [[File:Dhorpatan5.jpg|thumb|Dhorpatan landscape]] The Rapti river system east of the Karnali-Bheri had few lowlands suitable for growing rice and extensive highlands that were not attractive for Khas settlement but were a barrier to migration. However the Rapti's upper tributaries rose somewhat south of the Himalaya. Between these tributaries and the Dhaulagiri range of the Himalaya, a large east–west valley called '''Dhorpatan''' branching off the upper Bheri provided a detour eastward, over an easy pass called Jaljala into the '''Gandaki''' river system further east. The Gandaki is said to have seven major tributaries, most rising in or beyond the high Himalaya. They merge to cut through the Mahabharat and Siwalik ranges. In this basin elevations were generally lower and rainfall was higher compared to the Karnali-Bheri and Rapti basins. There was great potential for rice cultivation, the agricultural base of the Khas way of life. A collection of small principalities called the '''Chaubisi''' developed. Chaubisi literally means '24', as these kingdoms were counted. Not all were Khas kindoms. Some were Magar, a large indigenous hill tribe people related to the Kham. Other kingdoms were Gurung and Tamang. Several Gandaki tributaries rose in the trans-Himalayan region where inhabitants and rulers became increasingly Tibetanised to the north. =====Emergence of Shah Dynasty from Gorkha===== Within the Chaubisi kingdoms of the Gandaki basin, Gorkha was a small valley east of Pokhara ruled by a Khas family now called Shah, an honorific title that may have come later, however any earlier name seems to be forgotten. In 1743 AD '''Prithvi Narayan Shah''' became the ruler of [[Gorkha]] after his father Nara Bhupal Shah died. Prithvi Narayan already had a reputation as a hotheaded upstart. Resolving to modernise Gorkha's army, he was bringing modern arms from India when customs officers demanded inspection and payment of duties. Prithvi Narayan refused and attacked the officers, killing several before escaping with his arms and men. He also visited Benares to study the situation of local rulers and the growing encroachment of British interests. Prithvi concluded that invasion was a chronic danger to rulers on the plains of northern India, whereas the hills were more defensible and offered more scope to carve out a lasting empire. =====Kathmandu Valley (Bagmati)===== Prithvi Narayan must have been a charismatic figure, for he recruited, equipped and trained a formidable army and persuaded his subjects to underwrite all this from his ascension to the throne until his death in 1775. Through conquest and treaty, he consolidated several Chaubisi kingdoms. As his domain expanded, '''Khaskura''' became known as '''Gorkhali''', i.e. the language of the Gorkha kingdom. Then he moved east into the next river basin, the '''Bagmati''' which drains the [[Kathmandu Valley]] that held three small but prosperous urban kingdoms. Like the Rapti, the Bagmati rises somewhat south of the Himalaya. Unlike the Rapti basin, this valley had once held a large lake and the remaining alluvial soil was exceptionally fertile. Between the agricultural abundance, local crafts, and extensive trade with Tibet, the cities were prosperous. Prithvi Narayan encircled the valley, cutting off trade and restricting ordinary activities, even farming and getting water. With a combination of stealth, brutality and intimidation he prevailed and deposed the local kings in 1769, making Kathmandu his new capital. This was the high point of Prithvi Narayan's career, however he continued consolidating the Kathmandu Valley with the Chaubisi and Baisi federations to the west until his death in 1775. Gorkhali was re-dubbed '''Nepali''' as 'Nepal' came to mean not only the urbanised Kathmandu Valley, but all lands ruled by the Shahs. =====Koshi===== Prithvi Narayan's heirs, Pratap Singh, Rana Bahadur and Girvan Yuddha continued expansion of their kingdom into the '''Koshi''' river basin east of the Bagmati system. Like the Gandaki, the Koshi traditionally has seven major tributaries descending from the Himalaya before joining forces to break through the Mahabharat and Siwalik ranges. Ranges drained by Koshi tributaries include Mount [[Everest]] and its neighbouring peaks, as well as the western side of the Kangchenjunga massif. Kangchenjunga and a high ridge to the south are the watershed between the Koshi and Tista basins as well as the border between Nepal and the former kingdom [[Sikkim]] that India annexed in 1975. ===People=== [[File:Manuscript from Nepal in Newari and Sanskrit.jpg|thumb|Manuscript from Nepal in Newari and Sanskrit]] The Nepalese population can be divided based on ethnicity or religion. Major ethnic categories include '''Khas-Aryas''', '''Janajatis''', '''Newars''' and '''Madheshis'''. Although Nepal is best known for [[Hinduism]] and [[Buddhism]], there are Christian and Muslim minorities too. Like in India, Hindus in Nepal are divided into various castes. '''Newars''', the indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley, follow both Hinduism and Buddhism. They can be classified into 40 distinct cultural groups, but all speak a common language called '''[[Newari]]''' or '''Nepal Bhasa''' ('''Newa Bhaaya'''). However, Newars use prevailing lingua francas to communicate outside their community: Nepali in the hills, and Maithili, Bhojpuri and Awadhi in the Tarai. '''Janajatis''' include the various tribes of Nepal with their own mother tongues and cultures, and they don't come under the Hindu caste system. ====Castes==== {{main|Hinduism#Castes}} According to one theory, Hindu castes migrated from India to Nepal after the 11th century due to the Islamic invasions in the former. Another theory says that present day Hindu hill castes come from the Buddhist/Hindu population of the ancient Khas kingdom (present day Western Nepal). The traditional Hindu caste system is based on the four "varnas": '''Brahmins''' (Bahun), '''Kshatriyas''' (Chhetri), '''Vaishya''' and '''Shudra'''. Like in India, Hindus outside the four varnas are called '''Dalits''', and subject to caste-based discrimination and so called "untouchability" in social, economic, educational, political and religious areas. However, the middle Vaishyas and Shudras are underrepresented in the hills, apparently because they did not have compelling reason to leave the plains while Muslim invaders tried to eliminate previous elites. Dalits seem to have accompanied the upper castes into the hills because they were bound by longstanding patronage arrangements. However, the absence of Vaishya people in the Hindu hill population supports the second theory. Traditional caste rules govern who can eat with whom, especially when boiled rice is served, and who can accept water from whom. These rules were enforced by law till the 1950s. However, there's no caste-based reservation in Nepal. ===Climate=== [[File:Boudhanath 2016-07-03c.jpg|thumb|Monsoon rains may cause floods]] Nepal experiences four seasons a year, '''summer''', '''rainy season''' (or '''monsoon'''), '''autumn''' and '''winter'''. However, it traditionally recognises '''six seasons''': '''Basanta''' (spring), '''Grishma''' (summer), '''Barkha''' (rains), '''Sharad''' (early autumn), '''Hemanta''' (late autumn) and '''Shishir''' (winter). Monsoon rains in Nepal occur between June and September. They are generally lighter high in the higher mountains than in Kathmandu, though the mountain peaks are often not visible due to clouds. In the Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara, monsoon rains typically consist of an hour or two of rain every two or three days. Bring an umbrella during that time, and expect lower lodging prices and fewer tourists. There is little dust in the air during autumn (October–December), so this is the best season to visit the hills and mountains. During winter (January–March), the temperature in Kathmandu often dropping as low as {{C|0}} at night, with extreme cold at high elevations. It is possible to trek in places like [[Khumbu]] during the winter, but it is extremely cold, and snowfall may prevent going above {{m|4,000-4,500}}. The Jomosom trek is a reasonable alternative, staying below {{m|3,000}} with expected minimum temperatures about {{C|-10}}, and much better chances of avoiding heavy snow. During summer (April–June), there is an abundance of blooming flowers in the Himalayas at this time, with rhododendrons, in particular, adding a splash of colour to the landscape. The temperatures in the Tarai may reach or exceed {{C|40}} while Kathmandu stays at {{C|30}}. This is the best time to undertake mountain expeditions. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.tourism.gov.np/ Nepal Tourism] website ==Talk== The great biological and cultural diversity of present-day Nepal is matched by its linguistic diversity. Nepal boasts a variety of living languages many of which are remnants of the traditional Asiatic cultural amalgamation in the region, it has an impressively large number for a country with such a small land mass. Nepal has more distinct and individual languages in one country than the whole of the European community. The official language of Nepal is '''[[Nepali]]'''. It's related to Hindi, Punjabi, and other Indo-Aryan languages, and is normally written with the '''Devanagari''' script (as is Hindi), originated from Sanskrit. While most Nepalis speak at least some Nepali, a large percentage of the population has as their mother tongue another language, such as '''Tharu''' around Chitwan, '''[[Newari]]''' in the Kathmandu Valley, and '''[[Sherpa]]''' in the [[Everest]] area. Although Nepal was never a British colony, English is somewhat widespread among educated Nepalis. Nevertheless, learning even a few words of Nepali is fun and useful, especially outside of the tourist district and while trekking (porters often speak very little English and the inquisitive children in the tea houses are delighted to hear a few words of Nepali from their house guests). As Asian languages go, Nepali has to be one of the easiest to learn, and the traveller making the effort isn't likely to make worse blunders than many natives with a different first language. The locals are also happy to help with your burgeoning language skills. A disturbingly large number of Nepal's mother tongues are severely endangered and will likely cease to be living languages within a generation. ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Nepal.svg|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Nepal, with countries in navy and light blue having visa on arrival]] ===Entry requirements=== ====Visas==== [[File:Nepalarrival.jpg|thumb|Nepali arrival stamps]] Citizens of India may stay in Nepal indefinitely without a visa. Citizens of Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka may obtain a free visa-on-arrival for stays of up to 30 days regardless of reason of visit. citizens of China (mainland), Hong Kong and Macau are also eligible for a free visa-on-arrival for stays of up to 30 days, but are only permitted to visit for tourism. Nationals of Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, Eswatini, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine and Afghanistan are required to obtain visas ''before arrival''. '''Tourist Visas''' are available on arrival for citizens of many countries at Kathmandu airport and designated frontier posts (see below) and cost: * US$30 for 15 days * US$50 for 30 days * US$125 for 90 days Tourist visas can be granted for a maximum of 150 days in a visa year. You can also pay this on arrival in other convertible currencies such as euros, pounds sterling, Chinese reminbi and Australian dollars, although US dollars are always preferred and some smaller entry points (like Birgunj) may only accept US dollars, and Kodari only accepts US dollars and Chinese reminbi. All tourist visas are the "multiple entry" type and allow multiple entries and exits during the period of validity. '''Volunteering''' while on a tourist visa without permission is '''strictly prohibited'''. More details are available on the official website of '''[http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/ Nepal Immigration]''' '''Visa Application''' Visas can be applied for online at [https://online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/tourist-visa nepalimmigration.gov.np]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, but as the online application form requires information about the intended place of stay in Nepal that is difficult to acquire (such as ward number, municipality, district etc.), it generally more convenient to complete the visa application after arrival. To extend your tourist visa, visit the Nepal Immigration Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara with your passport and another photo, and pay US$2 for every day past your visa you want to stay, up to the maximum of 150 days per year. '''Money''' Cash payment is recommended (non-USDs are also accepted, but expect the exchange rate not to be the best). Visa and Mastercard payments are also available—they are coded as ''cash advances'' on the credit card. A US$1 fee is added in addition to the required visa payment amount if paying with credit card. ====Entry points==== Check up to date border crossings at official website of Nepali immigration: https://www.immigration.gov.np/en/offices * Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu * Jogbani, Biratnagar (Eastern Nepal) - separate border crossing for foreigners is 2-3 km south from train station * [[Kakarbhitta|Kakarbitta]], Jhapa (Eastern Nepal) * Birganj/Birgunj, Parsa (Central Nepal) * [[Kodari]], Sindhupalchowk (Northern Border) * Belahia, [[Bhairahawa]] (Rupandehi, Western Nepal) * Jamunaha, Nepalgunj (Banke, Mid Western Nepal) * Trinagar Bhansar (Mohana), Dhangadhi (Kailali, Far Western Nepal) * Gaddachauki, Mahendranagar (Kanchanpur, Far Western Nepal) ===By plane=== [[File:2009-03 Kathmandu 10.jpg|thumb|Outside Tribhuvan International Airport]] Kathmandu's '''[[Kathmandu#By plane|Tribhuvan International Airport]]''' ({{IATA|KTM}}) is the only international airport in Nepal. Although Nepal is a popular tourist destination, most flights from anywhere will stop on the way in other parts of Asia, such as the Middle East. Because of this, expect long travel times if you're coming from Europe or North America. ===By bus=== [[File:The Friendship Bridge connecting China with Nepal.jpg|thumb|The Friendship Bridge between China and Nepal]] There are five border crossings open to tourists. From India: * '''Bahraich-Nepalganj''' from [[Lucknow]] * '''Banbassa-Mahendrenagar''' from [[Delhi]] * '''[[Panitanki]]-[[Kakarbhitta]]''' from [[Siliguri]], [[Darjeeling]] * '''[[Raxaul]]-[[Birgunj|Birganj]]''' from [[Patna]], [[Kolkata]] * '''[[Sunauli]]-[[Bhairawa]]''' from [[Varanasi]] There are several border crossings to China, but they all face [[Tibet]] and are thus not open to independent travel: you will need to arrange a permit and join an organised tour. See that article for details. * '''Kyirong''' (aka Gyirong or 吉隆 Jilong in Chinese) which is 25 km from the Nepal border. It has a decent two-star hotel, and the Tamang Sherpa Restaurant across the street from the hotel (May 2018). The road to the border is very windy (40-45 minutes by car), but it is paved and in good condition. The road on the Nepal side is terrible. To Kathmandu, it will take 6 to 7 hours driving time, not including stopping for lunch and the 8-10 checkpoints. During the monsoon season (Jun-Aug), the road can be closed for hours or days because of rockslides and mudslides. * {{marker|type=go|name=Zhangmu border crossing|wikidata=Q24841141}} connecting to [[Kodari]] is reopened since September 2023. ===By car or motorcycle=== Many travellers ride from India on motorcycles, although cars are also common since the mid-2020s. Foreigners have to pay customs at the borders but most don't bother. Crossing the border requires you to pay a daily toll of Rs120 and a transport permit of Rs50 (one time), the police can ask you for these two documents any time during your ride. Selling the bike in Nepal is easy as other travellers are looking for bikes to ride back to India. If you're coming from India you'll find driving in Nepal a lot less chaotic. The roads are amazing and the new east–west highway under construction with support from the Japanese will open up new destinations for those interested in exploring Nepal by motor-bike. Please check before hiring a motorbike on the current state of fuel. Motorbike hire should cost around Rs500 a day (Pulsar, Hero, Honda, scooter) unless you are hiring an Royal Enfield. Rental companies are also notorious for trying to charge tourists large amounts of money for 'damage' that may not have done by you on returning the bike. Therefore, make sure a thorough damage assessment is carried out before departing and, if the hirer tries to scam you on return, go to the local police. The best route to explore Nepal by road on motorcycle, is to enter from the border crossing of Banbasa-Mahendra Nagar, just after the border crossing, the Mahendra Highway (made with collaboration from India) is amazing to ride on. ===By train=== Cargo and passenger trains operate between [[Sirsiya]] in southern Nepal, and the Indian town of [[Raxaul]]. However, except for Indians, foreigners are not allowed to cross the border with it. The internal train network is limited to a few kilometres of train network in [[Janakpur]]. ==Get around== === By plane === There are a number of domestic airlines in Nepal such as Yeti Air, Tara Air and Nepal Airlines that offer frequent flights to many destinations around the country. Destinations to and from [[Kathmandu]] include places like Biratnagar, [[Nepalganj]], Lukla, [[Pokhara]], Simikot, Jomsom, Janakpur and [[Bharatpur]]. To arrange flights from outside Nepal, there are a number of on-line booking agents who can make bookings, take payment (credit/debit cards/PayPal) and then send e-tickets. If you are buying tickets while in Nepal or if you are flying at short notice, it is necessary to be flexible on flight times and dates as the planes often get fully booked in advance. Cancellations and delays due to severe weather conditions do occur. If you have time, just board the next plane. === By bus === [[File:Bus, Nepal (10678458684).jpg|thumb|Packed bus in Nepal]] * '''Micro bus''' – They are 10-12 seaters with very fast and popular service. It has almost replaced local bus service given its fast service. However, apart from previous few routes, Micro Bus has come up with many other alternate routes and now has good coverage. The fare is more expensive than local buses. Tourists should be aware that microbuses are often driven with great speed and very little care and have unfortunately been the cause of a large percentage of the road accidents in Nepal. Use microbuses with caution. * '''Tempo''' – These come in two types. One is a three-wheeled electric or propane powered micro-bus for 10-13 passengers. They run in different routes around Kathmandu and cost Rs5-12. The other type is a newer Toyota van running the same routes at a higher price and a bit faster and safer. Be prepared for a crowd. * '''Local bus''' – Although the system can be confusing, they are cheap. They can be crowded at times both with people and domestic animals such as goats, ducks etc. Some buses will not depart until full to a certain quota. * '''Tourist bus''' – Book a few days ahead at a [[Kathmandu]] or [[Pokhara]] travel agent (or your hotel will book for you). A few steps above local buses (no goats, everyone gets a seat) but not much safer. "Adhikari Travels" is the most reliable company and has trips between Kathmndu, Chitwan, Lumbini and Pokhara. === By taxi === * '''Rickshaw''' – Good for short trips if you don't have much luggage and don't mind being bounced around a bit. Bargain before you get in, and don't be afraid to walk away and try another. * '''Taxi''' – There are two types of taxi: "private", which pretty much run from the airport to upmarket hotels and "10 Rupee", which don't leave until they are full. When haggling for a fare remember that taxi drivers have been hit hard by the petrol crisis sometimes queuing up overnight to get 5 litres of petrol at twice the market price. So be sympathetic but don't get ripped off. Offer to pay 'meter plus tip', 10% is more than enough. Taxis may charge passengers more than usual during periods of low fuel availability. * '''Car with driver''' – It's quite easy to rent a car with a driver in Nepal; however, you'll need to haggle to get a reasonable price. If you come in summer, it is recommended to take a car with air-conditioning. Car rental without a driver in Nepal is almost unheard of, as is renting a car in [[India]] and taking it across the border. === By car or motorbike === Nepal has left-hand traffic. There is little awareness of pedestrians' rights. Roads are often narrow and in poor condition. Rains and landslides affect the condition of the already poor road network, increasing the risk of road accidents. Avoid using local buses, especially those that are overloaded and in poor condition. Travelling after dark increases the risk of serious road accidents. An [[Driving#Driver's license|international driving licence]] is required to drive a car. This card must be carried when driving, as well as all documents relating to the car. Traffic accidents involving a foreigner are almost invariably considered to be caused by a foreigner. Claims for damages in such accidents are often high. Fuel shortages can sometimes occur, which may throw your driving-related plans into chaos. Custom or classic '''motorbikes''' in form 350 cc and 500 cc Royal Enfield bikes are available for rent including lessons, repairs and tours. Furthermore, local motorbikes are another choice and can be rented in the Thamel area of Kathmandu. With the petrol crisis, motorcycle rental has become a costly choice, depending on availability; 1 litre of petrol costs Rs160–165 on top of the rental fee (Rs800–3000). Mopeds are cheaper than motorbikes. Nepalese law requires the driver to wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle or scooter. When renting a motorbike or scooter, it should be remembered that vehicles are rarely insured. The hirer is liable for any damage caused to the vehicle. It is not advisable to leave your passport as a deposit when renting a vehicle. Rental companies are also notorious for trying to charge tourists large amounts of money for 'damage' that may not have done by you on returning the bike. Therefore, make sure a thorough damage assessment is carried out before departing and, if the hirer tries to scam you on return, go to the local police. === By bicycle === You can also rent a bicycle to travel around Kathmandu at a very reasonable price (Rs500–5,000) according to the condition or quality of bicycle and the rental period. [[File:Helicopter trekking annapurna.jpg|thumb|Helicopter-assisted trekking on the Annapurna circuit]] === On foot === Although motor roads are penetrating further into the hinterlands, many destinations can only be reached on foot (or by helicopter). Some require a permit. See [[#Trekking|Trekking]] below. For reliable maps, [[GPS navigation]], comprehensive trails and map information, consult [https://openstreetmap.org OpenStreetMap], which is also used by this travel guide and by many mobile Apps like [https://osmand.net/ OsmAnd] or [https://en.mapy.cz/ Mapy.cz]. Or just download the according GPX or KML files for trails on OpenStreetMap through [https://hiking.waymarkedtrails.org/ Waymarked Trails]. (Note, you just need to change the OpenStreetMap relation ID of the trail to download its GPX or KML files through the same link.) Of course, to get around by yourselves outside of cities, you also need sufficient skills, and you should ascertain that you have appropriate backups for your navigation solutions. ==See== [[File:Alpenglow on Everest.jpg|thumb|Alpenglow on Everest]] * [[Mount Everest]], the highest mountain in the world is probably Nepal's most famous sight, and much of the country consists of very high mountains. There are four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nepal: * The [[Kathmandu Valley]], obviously including the capital but also the cities of [[Bhaktapur]] and [[Patan]]. * [[Sagarmatha National Park]]. * [[Chitwan]] National Park. * [[Lumbini]], the birthplace of Buddha. ==Do== ===Trekking=== [[Image:View from Annapurna Base Camp.JPG|thumb|400px| The spectacular view from Annapurna Base Camp]] {{main|Trekking in Nepal}} Since 2023, solo trekking in many regions is restricted. As of early 2026, the E-TIMS digital QR system is strictly enforced at checkpoints like Monjo and Besisahar. Trekkers must be registered through a licensed agency. 101,320 trekkers visited Nepal in 2007. Of that number, 60,237 (59.4%) visited '''Annapurna''' area while those visiting the '''Everest''' and '''Langtang''' regions accounted for 26,511 (26.5%) and 8,165 (8.1%) respectively. "Tea-house trekking" is the easiest way to trek as it doesn't require support. Tea houses have developed into somewhat rustic full-scale tourist lodges with showers, pizza, pasta and beer. The day's hikes are between lodge-filled settlements or villages: there's no need to take tents, food, water or beer. All those things, plus luxuries such as apple pie, can be purchased along the way. Physical requirements range from easy to strenuous. Facilities available in remote areas are less extensive than in the more popular areas thus these areas are often visited in organised groups, with guide, porters and full support. '''[[Manaslu Trek|Manaslu]]''', '''Kanchenjunga''', '''Dolpo''', '''Mustang''' and '''Humla''' require '''Restricted Area Permits''', requiring a minimum of two foreign trekkers plus a registered/qualified guide. Progress is being made however, and tea-houses are becoming more available in all of these areas. Before setting out on any trek, make sure you find out what the current facilities are in that area, as they are changing every year. ====Annapurna region treks==== [[Annapurna]] - North of [[Pokhara]], from lush middle hills into high mountains. *[[Annapurna Circuit]]: A 2-3 week trek around the Annapurna mountains, leads up the Marsyangdi river to Dharapani, Chame, Manang, over Thorung La (5,400 m) to the Hindu temples at [[Muktinath]] and (possibly) ending at Jomsom. Down the Kali Gandaki on the Jomsom trail (the last week of the Annapurna Circuit which is done by itself in the opposite direction). Known as the "Apple Pie Trek" partly for crossing the apple growing region of Nepal, and partly for being one of the easier treks, enjoying Gurung and Thakali hospitality. Up through spring rhododendron blooms to [[Poon Hill]] for a dawn Himalayan vista. Another shorter but spectacular mini-circuit is the Nayapul-Ghandruk-Ghorepani-PoonHill-Nayapul route. *[[Annapurna Sanctuary]]: A trek up into the very heart of the range provides an awesome 360 degree high mountain skyline. ====Everest region treks==== Everest lies in the region known as [[Khumbu]] - To get here, take a bus to [[Jiri]] or fly to [[Lukla]] then hike up to [[Namche|Namche Bazzar]], capital of the Sherpa lands at the foot of Everest. Main "teahouse trek" regions, in each of these areas there are a number of trail options, there is plenty of scope for short treks of less than a week to much longer if you have time and wanderlust. *[https://zenexplorenepal.com/trip/everest-base-camp-trek/ Everest Base Camp Trek]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}: Lukla to EBC, stunning scenery, wonderful Sherpa people. The most popular trek is up to [[Everest Base Camp Trek|Everest Base Camp]] and an ascent of Kalar Patar. Visit the Buddhist [[Tengboche]] monastery for the Mani Rimdu festival in November. *The 'Classic Everest Base Camp Trek': Jiri to EBC *Gokyo: Lukla to the sacred lakes of Gokyo. Explore the [[Gokyo]] valley with its sacred lakes and stupendous views of four 8,000 m peaks. Or a circuit of the region crossing the high passes or Cho La and Renjo La. *[[Numbur Cheese Circuit]]: Trek through the largest cheese producing area, via the sacred lakes of [[Jata Pokhari]] and [[Panch Pokhari]] to [[Numburchuili]] base camp. *[[Island Peak Trek]] in the [[Everest]] region takes in some of the most spectacular scenery in the Himalayas. See 'Regions' - [[Khumbu]] * Pikey Cultural Trail * Dudh Kunda Cultural Trail ====Trekking peaks==== [[File:Summitting Island Peak.jpg|thumb|Summiting Island Peak]] Trekking peaks require a qualified "climbing guide", permits and deposits to cover camp waste disposal: *[[Island Peak Trek]] - The Island Peak trek in the [[Khumbu]] region takes in some of the most spectacular scenery in the Himalayas. This trek requires use of mountaineering gears. *[[Mera Peak climbing]] - Enjoy panoramic views of Mt Everest (8,848 m; 29,030 ft), Cho-Oyu (8,201 m; 26,910 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m; 27,940 ft), Makalu (8463 m; 27,770 ft), Kangchenjunga (8,586 m; 28,170 ft), Nuptse (7,855 m; 25,770 ft), and Chamlang (7,319 m; 24,010 ft). This trek doesn't require any mountaineering gears. ====Langtang region treks==== * '''Helambu Langtang Trek'''. A short taxi ride from Thamel to the roadhead at Shivapuri leads to a trail through the middle-hills countryside of Helambu. Either circle around and return to Kathmandu or cross the pass to the sacred lake at Gosainkhund, descend and then hike up the Langtang valley beneath mountains that form the border with Tibet. Descend back to catch a bus on a rough road through Trisuli to Kathmandu. If you don't fancy the long shaky bus ride (>8 hours) from/to Syabrubesi, Dhunche or Thulo Barku, you can get a 4x4 pickup for about Rs90,000 to/from Kathmandu. * [[Langtang Valley Trek]] *Tamang Heritage Trail ====Pro-poor rural treks==== Tourism is a dynamic sector of economy and accepting it as a vehicle of poverty reduction is a relatively new concept in Nepal. Nepal is a predominantly rural society, with 85% of the population living in the countryside. Naturally, Nepal's rich culture and ethnic diversity are best experienced in its village communities. You can engage in local activities, learn how to cook local cuisine or take part in agricultural activities like kitchen gardening, etc. :According to the NTB, rural tourism in Nepal focuses on "village trek" visits to indigenous people that “...will make tourists, experience rural life and Nepalese hospitality off the beaten path with all the beautiful scenery and cultural diversity of Nepal.” In the rural Nepal context, pro-poor tourism means expanding employment and small enterprise opportunities especially pro-indigenous peoples, youth and pro-women. Pro-poor initiatives in Nepal include the [http://undp.org.np/energy/projects/trpap/index.php?ProgramID=55 UNDP-TRPAP]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and [https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/---asia/---ro-bangkok/---ilo-kathmandu/documents/publication/wcms_114366.pdf ILO-EMPLED] projects. *Tamang Heritage Trail *Chepang Heritage Trail *Pathibhara Trail *Limbu Cultural Trail *Dudhkunda Cultural Trail *Pikey Cultural Trail *The Guerrilla Trek *[[Numbur Cheese Circuit]] *[[Indigenous Peoples Trail]] Trekking on the Indigenous Peoples Trail and the Numbur Cheese Circuit is a means for Nepali as well as foreign visitors to experience the rural and traditional Nepali way of life, and for the local community to participate in and benefit directly from tourism. You'll feel better knowing that your visit is genuinely helping your hosts. And if you want to simply lie on a beach, well, the Majhi Fishing Experience on the [[Sun Kosi]] in [[Ramechhap]] features one of the best beaches in Nepal. ===='Ethno-tourism' or cultural treks==== [[File:Golden Hour on the Koshi - A Fisherman's Tale.jpg|thumb|Golden Hour on the Koshi]] Ethno-tourism is increasingly popular in Nepal and is designed to maximise social and economic benefits to the local communities and minimise negative impacts to cultural heritage and the environment. Ethno-tourism is a specialised type of cultural tourism and can be defined as any excursion which focuses on the works of humans rather than nature, and attempts to give the tourist an understanding of the lifestyles of local people. *[[Numbur Cheese Circuit]] in the Everest Region *[[Indigenous Peoples Trail]] in [[Ramechhap]] *Majhi Fishing Experience on the [[Sun Koshi]] *The Guerrilla Trek in Mid-Western Nepal *Helambu Trek in Langtang *Tamang Heritage Trail in Langtang *Chepang Heritage Trail in Chitwan ====Remote treks==== [[File:Kanchanjangha range.jpg|thumb|Kanchenjunga]] Other more remote regions will require a bit more planning and probably local assistance, not least as the required permits are only issued via Nepali guides/agents. Camping is required on one or more nights. * [[Kanchenjunga]] - far eastern Nepal, accessible via Taplejung (from Kathmandu 40min by plane, 40hrs by bus), a strenuous trek through sparsely populated country to the third highest mountain. * Dolpa - Upper Dolpa in northwestern Nepal beyond the highest Himalaya is the remote Land of the Bon, almost as Tibetan as Nepali. Lower Dolpa is more accessible and can me reached by plane. * [[Manaslu Trek]] - Unspoiled trails through remote villages and over the Larkya La, a remote pass at 5,100m, to circuit an 8,000m mountain. The Manaslu massif rises above the old kingdom of Gorkha close to the Tibetan border about halfway between Kathmandu and Pokhara and will be close at hand for the last half of the circuit. [[File:Resting on the way to everest base camp.jpg|thumb|Trekkers resting on the way to Everest Base Camp]] ====Social responsibility and responsible travel==== Nepal is one of the poorest countries in the world and hiring a local company will benefit the local economy, however the involvement of travel agents in Kathmandu must be approached with caution. The numbers of travel, trekking and rafting agencies registered in 2007 were 1,078, 872 and 94 respectively. The rapid growth in tourism in Nepal coupled with the absence of a self-regulating code of conduct has helped to grow unhealthy competition among travel agents with regular undercutting in tariffs. Such undesirable actions take away benefits not only from trekking guides and porters but also from others engaged in supplying goods and providing services to the tourists. By paying lower tariffs tourists may save money but directly at the expense of local communities. Try to use 'socially responsible' tour operators that promote proper porter treatment and cultural and environmental sensitivity among their clients in line with the [http://www.sustainabletourismcriteria.org/ UN-WTO Sustainable Tourism Criteria]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. *Organised group trekking or independent trekking? While organised groups from "'''western tour operators'''" from overseas drain the operational profit out of the country, organised groups hire a larger amount of local workforce from porters to guides. With local tour operators, most of the operational profit remains in the country. Groups are more likely to go remote areas, and rely as much as possible on local resources to minimise transport cost and hire maximum local porters. In comparison, individual travellers are concentrated on the main trails with lodges and usually a lower budget. These trekkers usually use simpler lodges with lower costs. They may venture less often into remote areas, as that would mean more expense or very basic local services which most try to avoid. They generally spend less than organised travellers on same trails simply because they often have more restricted budgets. Safety and comfort are higher with organised tours. There is a full range of choice for any demand, just be sure to think about what trekking means for you: do you want to carry your own pack or not? *Keep working conditions and wages in mind when selecting a trekking company. For visitors from the west, hiring guides and porters is affordable and an extra few dollars can make a big impact in the life of a guide or porter. In order to feed themselves and their families, porters take on the job of carrying heavy loads to high elevations. Some of the problems porters face are underpayment, inadequate clothing and gear, being forced to carry excess weight, insufficient food provision and poor sleeping facilities. Sometimes these issues leave porters open to illness and neglect on the mountain. Nowadays most companies care better due to past awareness campaigns to their staff, however, some backpackers employ (illegally) porters and guides and there continue to be reports that some tourists pay less than the going rate.[[File:Kitchen sink nepalese porter.jpg|thumb|A porter carrying a kitchen sink]] *There are a number of websites that facilitate direct contact with recommended trekking guides and porters. By law this is not permitted, as foreigners on tourist visa are not allowed to employ any kind of workforce, but only legal registered companies as use in most countries around the globe. So unless you want to break the law, do not employ yourself any kind of porters or guides and ensure to hire only through legal companies, in case of an accident it may bring severe problems to have employed illegally staff. *The '''[http://www.ippg.net/ International Porter Protect Group’s (IPPG)]{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' was set up in response to these issues, to improve health and safety for the trekking porter at work in the mountains and reduce the incidence of avoidable illness, injury and death. This is achieved by raising awareness of the issues among the trekking community and travel companies, leaders and sirdars. The IPPG recommends the following guidelines: **Adequate clothing is made available for protection in bad weather and at altitude. This should include adequate footwear, hat, gloves, windproof jacket and trousers, sunglasses, and access to a blanket and pad above the snowline. **Leaders and trekkers provide the same standard of medical care for porters they would expect themselves. **Porters must not be paid off because of illness without the leader or trekkers being informed. **Sick porters are never sent down alone, but rather with someone who speaks their language. **Sufficient funds are provided to sick porters to cover the cost of their land rescue and treatment. **All trekking porters should have provision for security, personal protective equipment including shoes and clothes, depending on the weather. ===Rafting and kayaking=== Rafting trips of 1 to 10 days on many rivers and for all levels of experience leave from [[Kathmandu]] and [[Pokhara]]. For detailed itineraries visit the [http://www.raftingassociation.org.np/ Nepal Association of Rafting Agents]{{Dead link|date=October 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. The main rivers for rafting are: * Bhote Koshi * Kali Gandaki * Karnali * Seti * Sun Koshi * Trishuli * Tamur * Marshyangdhi Many companies offer Learn to Kayak Clinics on the Trishuli river, an ideal spot to take your first steps into the world of whitewater. ===Mountain biking=== [[File:Manang site (85).JPG|thumb|Mountainbiking in Manang. Literally.]] [[Mountain biking]] in Nepal is fun and at times challenging event. There are many popular biking routes: * '''The Scar Road from Kathmandu''' starts from Balaju towards Kakani to Shivapuri ending in Budhanilkantha in northern Kathmandu. * '''Kathmandu to Dhulikhel''' starts from Koteshwor in Kathmandu to Bhaktapur to Banepa to Dhulikhel. You can also continue from Dhulikhel to Namobuddha to Panauti to Banepa. * '''The Back Door to Kathmandu''' starts from Panauti and heads to Lakuri Bhanjyang and then to Lubhu in Lalitpur ending near Patan. * '''Dhulikhel to the Tibetan Border''' starts in Dhulikhel and follows the Araniko Highway with a night stay on the way. * '''The Rajpath from Kathmandu''' starts from Kalanki in Kathmandu and follows the Prithvi Highway up to Naubise. Then Tribhuwan Highway route is taken with overnight stay in Daman. From there, ride downhill to Hetauda, with the option of heading towards Narayangarh or the Indian border. * '''Hetauda to Narayangarh and Mugling''' starts from Hetauda and heads along the Mahendra Highway to Narayangarh. You could take a detour to Sauraha near from Taandi. * '''Kathmandu to Pokhara''' starts from Kathmandu and traverses through Naubise, Mugling to Pokhara. * '''Pokhara to Sarangkot and Naudanda''' starts from Lakeside Pokhara and heads towards Sarangkot and from there towards Naudanda. From there, ride downhill towards the highway. The best time to go for biking is between mid October and late March, when the atmosphere is clear the climate is temperate: warm during the days and cool during the night. Biking in other times of the year is also possible but great care should be taken while biking during the monsoon season (June to September) as the roads are slippery. Biking can be done independently or can be organised through biking companies of Nepal. You can '''rent mountain bikes''' of almost any quality, but remember that if you're going on a longer or harder ride, at least your own saddle would be a good option to bring. In late 2009 the daily rental costs ranged from US$3 for a simple bike to US$30 for a western bikes with suspension. ===Motorcycling=== Nepal's geography and climate makes for some of the best motorcycling roads in the world. The traffic is a little chaotic, but not aggressive, and the speeds are low. Be aware that you need an '''international driving licence''' in Nepal, even though you might never be stopped by the police as a tourist on a bike. Perhaps the best and most original way to explore the country is by motorcycle. Kathmandu should be avoided by beginners, but the rest of Nepal is simply amazing. '''Hearts and Tears Motorcycle Club, Wild Experience Tours & Blazing Trails Tours''' are the better known names in the industry. They specialise in motorcycle touring and have a great collection of custom bikes. They are professional set-ups with imported safety equipment, structured training and well organised group tours. ===Canyoning=== Since 2007 that the Nepal Canyoning Association was founded, a lot of canyons (khola in Nepali) have been equipped for organised descents. The 2011 IRC (International Canyoning Rendezvous) took place in the Marshyangdi River valley in the Annapurna region. There are at least 30 canyons where private companies organise excursions for descents. The Nepali canyons offer breathtaking views of the valleys and rice fields below and various combinations of difficulty and water level. Most canyons can only be accessed on foot from the nearby roads, through paths used by the locals for agriculture purposes or accessing their homes. In 2011, one of the longest and most difficult canyons in the world was equipped in an expedition by the "Himalayan Canyon Team" in the Chamje Khola. ===Jungle safari=== [[Chitwan National Park]] offers elephant rides, jungle canoeing, nature walks and bird watching, as well as more adventurous tiger and rhino-viewing. There are also many other less visited parks including [[Bardiya National Park|Bardiya]] and [[Shuklaphanta National Park]] . ===Trance parties=== "The Last Resort", near the Tibetan border, has frequent Full Moon trance parties, lasting 2-3 days. Watch for posters and check music shops. [[Pokhara]] has started featuring its own brand of Full Moon raves and interesting Western takes on Nepali festivals. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Nepalese rupees | currencyCode=Rs | date=January 2026 | USD=145 | EUR=170 | GBP=195 | INR=160 (fixed) | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/npr-nepalese-rupee XE.com] }} '''Nepalese rupees''' are the local currency, denoted by the symbol "'''रु'''" or "'''Rs'''" (ISO currency code: '''NPR'''). Coins of Nepal come in denominations of 1 and 2 rupees. Banknotes of Nepal come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 rupees. ====Acceptance of Indian rupees==== Although Indian currency is also widely accepted in Nepal (at an official exchange rate of 1.60 Nepalese rupees to 1 Indian rupee), it is officially illegal to carry or trade in any Indian rupee note above 100 rupees. In practice though these higher value notes are still unofficially accepted, even at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport to pay for your government issued visa on arrival. ====ATMs==== There are banks in [[Kathmandu]], [[Pokhara]], [[Chitwan]], [[Nepalgunj]], [[Janakpur]], [[Lumbini]] and other major cities that will allow you to retrieve cash from ATM or credit cards. There are many 24/7 ATMs in those cities. Keep all currency exchange and ATM receipts as they are required at the airport bank to convert back to your original currency. If you don't have them, they will refuse to convert your currency but they will suggest going to the Duty Free shop upstairs, even though it isn't a licensed money changer. Traveller's cheques may be useful outside of the major cities. All ATMs in Nepal charge a withdrawal fee of at least {{NPR|500}}. The ATMs likely to have the lowest fee depends on how much you're withdrawing (listed in order from most to fewest branches): * {{NPR|25,000}} or less: NIC Asia, Prabhu, ADBL, Siddhartha, Nepal SBI and Standard Chartered ATMs have the lowest fee of {{NPR|500}} (listed in order from most to fewest branches) with NIC Asia, Prabhu and Standard Chartered ATMs allowing withdrawals up to {{NPR|25,000}} and the other ATMs only {{NPR|20,000}} * {{NPR|35,000}} or less and more than {{NPR|25,000}}: Laxmi Sunrise ATMs have the lowest fee of {{NPR|600}} * {{NPR|40,000}} or less and more than {{NPR|35,000}}: Nabil Bank ATMs have the lowest fee of {{NPR|700}} Note that the fee charged can vary depending on your card type, where your bank is and sometimes even the specific ATM you're using. Check fees when using an ATM you haven't used before, or the same ATM with a different card. If one of these ATMs is not nearby then check this table to help find a favourable alternative: {| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="margin-left: 1em; text-align:right" |+ {{nowrap|Fees and limits}} {{nowrap|(as of Nov 2024)}} <!-- Table default sort order: 1. Ascending on the fee that would apply to a 10000 NPR withdrawal 2. Ascending on the bank name --> ! Bank !! Fee !! Transaction limit |- ! Agriculture Development Bank (ADBL) | {{NPR|500}} || {{NPR|20000}} |- ! Nepal SBI Bank | {{NPR|500}} || {{NPR|20000}} |- ! NIC Asia Bank | {{NPR|500}} || {{NPR|25000}} |- ! Prabhu Bank | {{NPR|500}} || {{NPR|25000}} |- ! Siddhartha Bank | {{NPR|500-650}} || |- ! Standard Chartered | {{NPR|500}} || {{NPR|25000}} |- ! Laxmi Sunrise Bank | {{NPR|600}} || {{NPR|35000}} |- ! citizens Bank International | {{NPR|600}} || {{NPR|25000}} |- ! Everest Bank | {{NPR|625}} || {{NPR|25000}} |- ! Global IME Bank | {{NPR|625}} || {{NPR|25000}} |- ! NMB Bank | {{NPR|660}} || {{NPR|25000}} |- ! Nabil Bank | {{NPR|700}} || {{NPR|40000}} (ATM incorrectly shows {{NPR|35000}}) |} ==Eat== {{see also|South Asian cuisine}} [[File:2015-03-18 Dal Bhat Tarkari,Nagarkot DSCF2224.jpg|thumb|Dal bhat tarkari]] The Nepali national meal is '''daal-bhaat-tarkaari'''. It is spiced lentils poured over boiled rice, and served with tarkari: vegetables cooked with spices. This is served in most Nepalese homes and teahouses, two meals a day at about 10:00 and 19:00 or 20:00 If rice is scarce the grain part may be cornmeal mush called aata, barley, or sukkha roti (whole wheat 'tortillas'). The meal may be accompanied by '''dahi''' (yogurt) and a small helping of ultra-spicy fresh '''chutney''' or '''achaar''' (pickle). Traditionally this meal is eaten with the right hand. Curried meat, goat or chicken, is an occasional luxury, and freshwater fish is often available near lakes and rivers. Because Hindus hold cattle to be sacred, beef is not part of traditional Nepali cuisine, but can still be obtained for a high price in some expensive restaurants. Buffalo and yak are eaten by some but considered too cow-like by others. Pork is eaten by some tribes, but not by upper-caste Hindus. As in India, there are some communities and tribes that are vegetarian. Outside the main morning and evening meals, a variety of snacks may be available. Tea, made with milk and sugar is certainly a pick-me-up. Corn may be heated and partially popped, although it really isn't popcorn. This is called "kha-jaa", meaning "eat and run". Rice may be heated and crushed into "chiura" resembling uncooked oatmeal that can be eaten with yogurt, hot milk and sugar, or other flavourings. Fritters called 'pakora' and turnovers called "samosa" can sometimes be found, as can sweets made from sugar, milk, fried batter, sugar cane juice, etc. Be sure such delicacies are either freshly cooked or have been protected from flies. Otherwise flies land in the human waste that is everywhere in the streets, then on your food, and so you become a walking medical textbook of gastrological conditions. Because of the multi-ethnic nature of Nepali society, differing degrees of adherence to Hindu dietary norms, and the extreme range of climates and micro-climates throughout the country, different ethnic communities often have their own specialties. Newars, an ethnic group originally living in the Kathmandu Valley, are food-lovers who lament that feasting is their downfall, whereas sexual indulgence is said to be the downfall of Pahari Chhetri. In the fertile Kathmandu and Pokhara valleys there is more variety in ingredients, particularly vegetables, than what is available in most of the hills. As such, Newari cuisine is quite distinct and diverse relatively compared to the other indigenous regional cuisines of Nepal, so watch for Newari restaurants. Some of them even come with cultural shows: a good way to enjoy good food while having a crash-course in Nepalese culture. [[File:Momo, Nepal.JPG|thumb|Momo]] The cuisine of the Terai lowlands is almost the same as in adjacent parts of India. Locally-grown tropical fruits are sold alongside subtropical and temperate temperate crops from the hills. In addition to bananas ('kera') and papayas ('mewa') familiar to travellers, jackfruit ('katar') is a local delicacy. Some dishes, particularly in the Himalayan region, are Tibetan in origin and not at all spicy. Some dishes to look for include '''momos''', a meat or vegetable filled dumpling, which is similar to Chinese pot-stickers. Momos has become very popular in past few decades. Momos can be found almost everywhere in Kathmandu and other towns in Nepal, whether it be a big hotel or a small restaurant. Other dishes like '''Tibetan Bread and Honey''' a puffy fried bread with heavy raw honey that's great for breakfast. Up in the Himalayan mountains, potatoes are the staple of the Sherpa people. Try the local dish of potato pancakes (''rikikul''). They are delicious eaten straight off the griddle and covered with dzo (female yak) butter or cheese. Pizza, Mexican, Thai and Chinese food and Middle-Eastern food can all be found in the tourist districts of [[Kathmandu]], [[Pokhara]] and [[Chitwan]]. If you are on a budget, eating local dishes will save money. Many small restaurants are not prepared to cook several different dishes; try to stick with one or two dishes or you will find yourself waiting as the cook tries to make one after another on a one-burner stove in those small restaurants. As far as possible, eat only Nepali village products. If you take only village product foods, it will help them economically. ==Drink== [[File:Everest beer.jpg|thumb|Everest beer]] '''Alcohol:''' *'''Raksi''' is a clear liquid with around 45% ABV. It is usually brewed "in house", resulting in a variation in its taste and strength. This is by far the least expensive drink in the country. It is often served on special occasions in small, ceramic cups (Salinchha in Newar language) that hold less than a shot. It works well as a mixer in fruit juice or seltzer. It may appear on menus as "Nepali wine". *'''Jaand''' (Nepali) or '''chyaang''' (Tibetan) is a cloudy, moderately alcoholic drink sometimes called "Nepali beer". Mostly it is made from rice, specially in Newari culture. While less alcoholic than raksi, it will still have quite an effect. This is often offered to guests in Nepali homes, and is diluted with water. For your safety, ask guests if the water has been sanitised before drinking this beverage. *'''Beer''' production in Nepal has reached international quality standards. Everest and Gorkha are two popular local brands and are also exported. International brands are available in urban areas. *'''Cocktails''' can pretty much only be found in [[Kathmandu]] and [[Pokhara]]'s tourist areas. There you can get watered-down "two for one drinks" at a variety of pubs, restaurants and sports bars. '''Tea:''' [[File:Lush Green Tea Gardens are what makes Ilam district popular. (By Saroj Pandey).jpg|thumb|Tea gardens in Ilam]] Although not internationally famous, Nepal has a large tea industry. Most plantations are in the east of the country and the type of tea grown is very similar to that produced in neighbouring [[Darjeeling]]. Well known varieties are Dhankuta, Illam, Jhapa, Terathhum and Panchthar (all named after their growing regions). Over 70% of Nepal's tea is exported and the tea you see for sale in Thamel, while they serve as token mementos, are merely the scrapings from the bottom of the barrel. *'''Milk tea''' is boiled milk with added tea, with or without sugar. *'''Chai''' is tea with added milk and also sometimes containing ginger and spices such as cardamom. *'''Suja''' is salty tea made with milk and butter - only available in areas inhabited by Tibetans, Sherpas and a few other Himalayan people. *'''Herbal teas''' are mostly made from wild flowers from the [[Solu Khumbu]] region. In Kathmandu, these teas are generally only served in high class establishments or those run by Sherpas from the Solu Khumbu. ==Sleep== Budget accommodation in Nepal ranges from around Rs250 to around Rs750 for a double. The prices you are told at first are not fixed so you should haggle. Especially if you want to stay for a longer period, you can get a large discount. Cheaper rooms usually do not have sheets, blankets, towels, or anything else besides a bed and a door. Most budget hotels and guesthouses have a wide range of rooms, so be sure to see what you are getting, even if you have stayed there before. Usual price for three-star equivalent hotel (AC, bathroom, Internet access and satellite TV in the room) is around Rs1,500 for a double, a bit more in Kathmandu. Accommodations might easily be the cheapest part of your budget in Nepal. However, if you prefer luxurious accommodation, the best hotels equal approximately to four star hotels in western countries (unlimited access to swimming pool or whirlpool, no power outages, room service, very good restaurant and buffet breakfasts). Expect the price being much higher (circa US$50 for a double or US$100 for an apartment, even more in Kathmandu). In these hotels, all prices are usually fixed. In Kathmandu, some luxurious hotels require going through security check when entering. ==Learn== ===Thangka painting=== *'''Tsering Art School''', offers a Thangka painting course. A minimum study period of 3 months a year for 3 years is recommended. Due to the sacred nature of this art form, those who wish to study here must have taken refuge in the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, and be Buddhist. There are no boarding facilities offered at the Tsering Art School for foreign students. The school fees are Rs1,600 per month. Basic drawing and painting implements are required and can be purchased in Nepal. For study enquiries and enrolments contact the school administrator, Miss Lobsang Dolma by email on: zorig@asia.com ==Work== ===Volunteering=== Visitors to Nepal should be aware that it is illegal to do volunteering "work" on a tourist Visa. In order to volunteer legally, the organisation who will engage you must obtain for you a non-tourist visa. Unfortunately, volunteer tourism has mostly become more profitable than real tourism. Foreign operators and Nepali agents have found an inexhaustible supply of well-meaning but naive people who will pay sometimes even big amounts to "volunteer" in Thamel, Lakeside and Chitwan. See [[Volunteer travel#Be wary]]. [[Teaching English]] is a popular project for volunteers and is often combined with courses in computer literacy or health and physical education. The Nepali school system, which many children only attend for a few years, requires English fluency so there is always a demand for native English speakers of all ages, races and nationalities. There have been few prerequisites for teaching beyond fluency in English. Be aware that many schools, especially private ones, charge families higher fees if "foreign teachers present" and often locally available English teachers may not be able to find work because of the number of foreign mostly illegally engaged foreign volunteers, many of whom may be illegally employed. If you want to teach, a school may request and obtain a non tourist visa for you so you can teach legally. There are many options for finding volunteer opportunities. Several international volunteer organisations, will find you a project, room and boarding, either at the school or with a local family for a fee. This "fee" can range from US$500-2000 depending on the type and length of program. Often only little of that money will go to the school and host family, often they are too poor even to support a volunteer, so the bulk often goes to the agency. Some organisations will provide language and culture lessons as well as general teaching supplies and support. Once you make a deposit on a particular program there may be limited options for change. Programs can last from two weeks to five months if made in tourist visa, but keep in mind a regular, legal work and a longer stay may be more rewarding for both you and the school, as it can take several weeks to get into the swing of things. Above all, examine carefully how your money is spent and who really benefits. [[File:Mount Everest a close view with south summit and yellow band.jpg|thumb|View to the summit of Mount Everest]] An alternative to paid placement is to find a local, grassroots program, or to contact schools directly in Kathmandu when you arrive. Local hostels and restaurants usually have bulletin boards full of often doubtful requests for volunteers. More and more local groups are placing ads on the web as well. These programs are more likely to charge only for room and board, but you will need to do some research to find out the specifics of each group and what, if any, support you will receive. Waiting until you arrive also lets you get to know the areas you can volunteer in and allows you to shop around for a situation that best suits you. These placements tend to be longer term (3-5 months), but this is always negotiable with a specific school or project. Always check if your engagement does not take away work of other people and that your volunteer work is done legally and that the community profits from the deal. Report to police or other serious NGO/INGO any kind of misuse. Always demand written receipts with complete organisation address, stamp and signatures. This helps to prevent siphoning off precious development funds, which generally tend to not reach the intended beneficiaries most of time. Estimates go from 85-95% for funds spent on "logistics", "office expenses", "allowances", vehicles and so forth. ==Stay safe== {{Warningbox|Violent anti-government protests erupted in Nepal. While the protests have calmed, thousands of prisoners have escaped. Curfews are being lifted off by authorities, but a prohibition on protests around key installations are still maintained. Censorship of social media was rolled back, but could be reinstated. Likewise, Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the country's main airport, could be closed again if protests erupt again. All foreigners who hold valid visas through 8 September 2025 can obtain free exit permits and visa regularisation at any immigration offices or at points of departure. Stay away from any protests, stay tuned to the latest news, and pay attention to any evacuation information by your country.|australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/nepal|canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/nepal|uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/nepal|nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/destinations/nepal|lastedit=2025-09-18|india=https://www.mea.gov.in/advisories-details.htm?50|de=https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/service/laender/nepal-node/nepalsicherheit-221216}} [[File:Nepal soldiers.jpg|thumb|Members of Nepal's Armed Police Force pose with tourists]] === Political extremism === Sometimes, there are '''strikes''' ("bandas") and demonstrations to contend with. Some businesses close, but many allowances are usually made for tourists, who are widely respected. Ask about strikes at your hotel or read the English language Nepali newspapers. The Maoist insurgency ended in 2006 after they signed comprehensive peace agreement with the government, in which they agreed to become a mainstream political party and participate in elections. The government is in the hand of Nepali Congress as it wins the election of 2014. Due to the change in government the tourists are now much more safer than before. The trekking routes and other tourist destinations are safe for travel. If your country has an embassy or consulate in Nepal, let them know your whereabouts & plans, and at least listen seriously to any cautionary advice they offer. It is not unheard of for Maoist "tax collectors" to collect "revolutionary taxes" from trekkers. They may approach you as a large group. Even though this is effectively extortion, it is not always an unfriendly encounter and should not assume the worst. They will usually provide a receipt for the tax and claim that it will provide you with security and safe passage within the area that you are in. It is best to defer to your guide and if your guide suggests that you pay the tax, accept the recommendation. You can negotiate and haggle, or refuse outright, and they will either press harder, threaten you or leave you alone entirely. This has become progressively rarer since the Maoist insurgency ended in 2006 (especially on the trek to the Everest Base Camp) but is still imposed in some areas. [[File:Nepal earthquake 2015 Tripureswor, Kathmandu.jpg|thumb|A destroyed building in Kathmandu after the 2015 earthquake]] === Earthquake risk === [[Earthquakes]] are common across Nepal. The lack of emergency equipment and poorly resourced medical facilities is likely to worsen an earthquake’s impact. For example, the 2015 Nepal Earthquake killed nearly 9,000 people and destroyed over 600,000 homes. The [https://www.nset.org.np/nset2012/ National Society of Earthquake Technology (NSET)] gives advice on what to do in an earthquake, check with your tour operator to find out what contingency plans they have for an earthquake. Following a significant earthquake you should expect transport, accommodation and basic services in affected areas to be disrupted. Relief efforts are likely to be a priority for the authorities. Check with your tour company or hotel for further information on whether travel to an area is appropriate. === Pickpocketing === Nepal's cities are safer than most, and even pickpockets are rare. It's relatively safe for women and solo travellers as compared to many other South Asian countries. Nevertheless, don't flash cash or make ostentatious displays of wealth. It is advised to take trekking guide when trekking to a Himalayan region. === Transportation risk === Be cautious with public transport. Roads are narrow, steep, winding & frequently crowded. Domestic flights are safer than the roads. Flying risks are greatest before & during the monsoon season when the mountains are usually clouded over. === Medical evacuation === If you should be seriously injured or sick where there are no roads or airports, '''medical evacuation''' by helicopter may be your only option. If there is no firm guarantee that the bill will be paid, companies offering these services may demur, so look into '''insurance''' covering medical evacuations. You might ask if your embassy or consulate guarantees payment. ==Stay healthy== [[File:Samosa11.jpg|thumb|Samosas for sale on the [[street food|street]] in Kathmandu]] *'''Minimizing gastrointestinal problems''' - Since most of Nepal still gets along without modern sanitation, these are endemic. They range from self-limiting attacks of diarrhea where dehydration is the main risk, through intestinal parasites, amoebic dysentery and giardiasis which are chronic without proper medical treatment, to immediately life-threatening infections like cholera and typhoid. Habituation even to common intestinal flora generally takes about a year and many unpleasant bouts of stomach problems, so tourists contemplating shorter stays should take extensive precautions. Filter or treat your own water, use bottled water, checking to make sure lid is sealed (limit use of bottled water since there's no place to dispose of the used bottles) or stick with beverages made from water that has been thoroughly '''boiled and filtered'''. Tea or coffee from cafes catering to tourists are 'generally' safe. See also [[Travellers' diarrhea]]. **'''[[Water]]''' is unsafe for drinking without being chemically treated or boiled, which is one reason to stick to tea or bottled water. It may be possible to buy filtered, treated water in cities and many villages. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) has installed a number of safe water stations along the Annapurna Circuit where water may be purchased for a reasonable cost. ** '''When trekking''' carry iodine or other chemical means of treating water and be sure to follow directions, i.e. don't drink the water before the specified time interval to ensure that resistant cysts are deactivated. In trailside teashops, although glasses may be washed in questionable water, tea is made by pouring boiling water through tea dust into your glass. The chances of disease-causing organisms surviving that are small but not zero. **'''Brush teeth''' with prepared drinking water and avoid water entering the mouth when showering. **'''Salads''', especially in the wet season, should be treated as suspect. Some restaurants wash salad greens with lightly iodised water to make it safe. **'''Wash hands''' regularly and especially before eating. Carry hand sanitiser and use it regularly. **'''Thoroughly wash''' fruit and vegetables for raw consumption using boiled and filtered water. Also consider peeling them. ** Look for freshly-cooked food and avoid anything that has been cooked and then left sitting around without refrigeration (which can expose you to a buildup of harmful bacteria), or without protection from flies (which can transfer disease-causing organisms and parasite eggs to the food). ** Also see the '''[[Travellers' diarrhea]]''' article. * '''Get vaccinated and consider prophylactic treatment.''' You may be exposed to typhoid, cholera, hepatitis malaria and possibly even rabies. Read the article on '''[[Tropical diseases]]''' and review travel plans with your health care provider. *'''Practice safe sex''' or do without. Nepali women are sought after in India and the Middle East and so there is human trafficking. Victims may be allowed to return home when health issues become a liability, then continue 'working' as long as possible. The incidence of STDs is rising and the government has not always been proactive about treatment and promoting awareness. Unless your Nepali is extremely fluent, your chances of finding out about a prospective partner's sexual history are slim. [[File:Warning of Acute Mountain Sickness - Annapurna Circuit, Nepal - panoramio.jpg|thumb|Acute Mountain Sickness warning sign, Annapurna Circuit]] *'''[[Altitude sickness]]''' Permanent snow lines are between 5,500 m and 5,800 m (18,000 ft and 19,000 ft), so base camps and passes in the Himalaya are usually higher than Mount Blanc or Mount Whitney. This puts even experienced mountain climbers at risk of altitude-related medical conditions that can be life-threatening. Risks can be minimised by choosing routes that don't go high, such as Pokhara-Jomosom, or routes and trekking companies where gamow bags or other treatment are available, and by sleeping not more than 300 m (1,000 ft) higher per day. According to the "climb high, sleep low" mantra, it is good to take daytime conditioning hikes that push acclimation, then to return to a more reasonable elevation at night. * '''Hypothermia''' is a risk, especially if you are trekking in spring, autumn or winter to avoid heat at low elevations. When it is a comfortable 30°C (85°F) in the Terai, it is likely to be in the teens Fahrenheit or -10°C (14°F) at that base camp or high pass. Either be prepared to hike ''and'' sleep in these temperatures (and make sure your comrades, guides and porters are equally prepared), or choose a trek that doesn't go high. For example, at 3,000m (10,000ft) expect daytime temperatures in the 40s Fahrenheit or 5 to 10°C. * [[Rabies]] - Dogs are not vaccinated and catch this fatal disease from other dogs or wild animals with some regularity. All mammals are potentially vulnerable. Dogs are considered ritually polluting and are widely abused, so it can be impossible to know whether a dog bit you because it is paranoid about people or because it is rabid. You should be vaccinated against rabies before going to Nepal, but this is not absolute protection. Be on the lookout for mammals acting disoriented or hostile and stay as far away as possible. Do not pet dogs, cats or pigs no matter how cute. Keep a distance from monkeys, especially in places like the Monkey Temple (Swayambunath) in Kathmandu. If bitten or exposed to saliva, seek medical attention. You may need an extended series of injections that provides a higher level of protection than routine vaccination. * [[Dangerous snakes|Snakebite]] - The risk is greatest in warm weather and at elevations below 1,500 m (5,000 ft). Poisonous snakes are fairly common and cause thousands of deaths annually. Local people may be able to differentiate poisonous and non-poisonous species. Cobras raise their bodies in the air and spread their hoods when annoyed; itinerant snake charmers are likely to have specimens for your edification. Vipers have triangular heads and may have thick bodies like venomous snakes in North America. Kraits may be the most dangerous due to innocuous appearance and extremely potent neurotoxin venom. Kraits are strangely passive in daylight but become active at night, especially around dwellings where they hunt rodents. Krait bites may be initially painless, causing only numbness. However without proper antivenin numbness can progress to deadly paralysis, even with bites from small, seemingly harmless specimens. Wearing proper shoes and trousers rather than sandals and shorts provides some protection. Watch where you put your feet and hands, and use a torch when walking outside at night. Sleeping on elevated beds and on second stories helps protect against nocturnal kraits. ==Respect== Greet people with a warm '''Namaste''' (or "Namaskar" formal version - to an older or high-status person) with palms together, fingers up. It is used in place of hello or goodbye. Don't say it more than once per person, per day. The least watered down definition of the word: 'The divine in me salutes the divine in you.' Show respect to elders. Say Thank you: Dhanyabaad /'ðɅnjɅbɑ:d/ (Dhan-ya-baad) '''Feet''' are considered dirty. Don't point the bottoms of your feet at people or religious icons. Do not step over a person who may be seated or lying on the ground. Be sensitive to when it is proper to remove your hat or shoes. It is proper to take off your shoes before entering a residential house. The '''left hand''' is considered unclean because it is used to wash after defecating. Many Nepali hotel & guest house toilets have bidet attachments, like a kitchen sink sprayer, for this purpose in lieu of toilet paper. It is considered insulting to touch anyone with the left hand. It is proper to poke someone, take and give something with the right hand. '''Circumambulate''' Buddhist shrines and temples, chortens, stupas, mani walls, monasteries etc. in a '''clockwise''' direction. Hindu shrines and temples have no such practice. [[File:Market, Basantapur Square (5197844315).jpg|thumb|Merchandise at a market in the capital]] When '''[[haggling]]''' over prices, smile, laugh and be friendly. Be prepared to allow a reasonable profit. Don't be a miser or insult the quality of the goods on offer. Many [[Sacred sites of the Indian sub-continent#Hindu|'''Hindu temples''']] do not allow non-Hindus inside certain parts of the temple complex. Be aware & respectful of this fact, as these are places of worship, not tourist attractions. Being a non-Hindu makes you moderately ''impure'' to some strict Hindus. Avoid touching containers of water; let someone pour it into your drinking container. Likewise avoid touching food that others will be eating. Make sure you are invited before entering someone's house. You may only be welcome on the outer porch, or in the yard. Shoes are routinely left on the front porch or in a specific area near the front door. '''Wash hands''' before and after eating. Touch food only with the '''right hand''' if you're not left-handed. ==Connect== Internet connectivity is increasing rapidly, and obviously its availability is most widespread in [[Kathmandu]] (especially in Thamel and around the Boudha Stupa in Boudhanath) or [[Pokhara]]. In those two cities, most hotels and lodges will have free Internet connection with Wi-Fi. So will many restaurants. More and more villages will have Internet available at some lodges, usually with Wi-Fi. For example, in 2013, Wi-Fi was available in lodges in Jomsom and Muktinath. In the more remote villages, however, there may only be the occasional Internet cafe that is available. For example, Chame (on the Annapurna circuit) has an Internet cafe with secured Wi-Fi for Rs15 per minute. Even more remote villages may have Internet via satellite connection, but it is quite pricey at over Rs100 per minute. '''Mail''' can be received at many guesthouses or at Everest Postal Care, opposite Fire & Ice on Tridevi Marg. Phone calls are best made from any of the international phone offices in [[Kathmandu]]. Voice over Internet (VOI) is usually Rs1-2/min. Mobile phones are the best option (see below). ===Mobile phones=== There are two main mobile operators in Nepal: government-run NTC (Nepal Telecom Company) and private Ncell (previously called Spice Mobile and Mero Mobile). Both operators allow tourists to buy SIM cards for about Rs200 in Kathmandu and most major towns. You will need to bring a passport photo, fill in a form and have your passport and visa page photocopied. [https://www.ncell.com.np/en Ncell] SIMs can be bought from many stores, but are best bought from official stores in Birgunj or Kathmandu. Micro SIMs can be cut for free if you need. [https://www.ntc.net.np/ NTC] SIMs can be bought from their official offices and mobile stores across the country. They do not publish their coverage maps. However they do have superior remote coverage to Ncell, particularly on the Annapurna, Everest and other trekking routes. ===Electricity=== [[File:Multi plug.jpg|thumbnail|150px|Typical wall socket that accepts multiple plug types (A, B, C, E, F, G, I, D)]] In Nepal, various types of electric [[Electrical systems#Plugs, sockets and adapters|plugs and sockets]] are common. The most common '''plug''' types to be found on devices are C (Europlug), F ("Schuko"), G (UK), D and M. '''Sockets''' mostly accept multiple types of plugs. Most modern wall sockets will accept types A, B, C, E, F, G, I and D. Some will additionally support type M. Note that the European plugs (types C, E and F) will typically sit rather loosely in these "universal sockets", so it can be advisable to use an adapter. Occasionally you may also see older sockets which only support types D and M. However, at least one "modern" socket will usually be present in a room. Adapters can be purchased inexpensively in Kathmandu for around ₨100, and some have fuses built in. Try shopping in Thamel or the Kumari Arcade in Kathmandu. Electricity on treks can be scarce. In remote parts there may only be solar powered electricity. Expect to pay Rs100-200 per hour to charge devices on many tea-house treks, including the Everest base camp trek. If you have devices that will need regular recharging, you may wish to purchase in advance a small solar panel and battery pack. ==Go next== *[[Mount Kailash]] - in Tibet, a short distance beyond the North West corner of Nepal. Hindu and Buddhist cosmology describes the cosmos as a central mountain, Mount Meru, surrounded by the earth's continents and seas, then by the rest of the universe. Cambodia's [[Angkor Wat]] temple complex is an architectural representation of this schema. As geographical knowledge developed, Mount Kailash was proclaimed the physical manifestation of Mount Meru. It is the hydrological hub of the subcontinent. The Karnali, Sutlej Indus and Brahmaputra rivers all begin near this mountain. Hindus and Buddhists gain religious merit by circumambulating the mountain. {{related|Sacred_sites_of_the_Indian_sub-continent}} {{isPartOf|South_Asia}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|28|84|zoom=7}} srb2n2eix4xkntqapk87uromfy9xs81 0 24785 5288926 5257163 2026-06-06T18:11:04Z Pashley 1822 /* */ 5288926 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Petit andelys banner.jpg}} '''Normandy''' ([[French phrasebook|French]]: ''Normandie'', Norman: ''Normaundie'') is a region of northern [[France]], bordering the English Channel. Once the centre of a powerful medieval empire that controlled a significant area of continental Europe, and most of [[England]] and [[Wales]], Normandy has an incredibly rich heritage to draw from. Many visitors come to be enchanted by historical attractions such as the triple peaks of [[Rouen]] cathedral, the [[Bayeux]] Tapestry's engrossing tale of vengeance and conquest, and the fantastical abbey atop [[Mont Saint-Michel]]. [[File:Mont Saint Michel bordercropped.jpg|thumb|300px|View of Mont Saint-Michel]] Normandy is also famed for the [[D-Day]] Allied invasion on 6 June 1944, and the [[D-Day_beaches#Normandy_campaign|brutal inland fighting]] that ensued, but which eventually resulted in the liberation of France from Nazi rule. However, Normandy is more than just a history museum; this is a region of natural beauty too, from the chalky cliffs of the [[Dieppe|Alabaster]] [[Étretat|Coast]], to the rocky hills of the Suisse Normande, and the Cotentin marshlands. And where better to savour the twin pillars of [[#Eat|Norman cuisine]], milk and apples? ==Regions== {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#93a6c7|title=[[Manche]] |wikidata=Q12589}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#dde58b|title=[[Calvados]]|wikidata=Q3249}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c5995c|title=[[Orne]] |wikidata=Q12679}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a4c28d|title=[[Seine-Maritime]]|wikidata=Q12758}} {{mapframe|width=450}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#4da9c4|title=[[Eure]] |wikidata=Q3372}} '''Lower Normandy''' (''Basse-Normandie'') {{Regionlist | regionmap= | regionmaptext=Departments of Normandy | regionmapsize=350px | region1name=[[Manche]] | region1color=#93a6c7 | region1items= | region1description= the more rural west of Normandy is on and around the Cotentin peninsula, which thrusts into the English Channel | region2name=[[Calvados]] | region2color=#dde58b | region2items= | region2description=hosts the Bayeux Tapestry and many historical sites relating to the 1944 D-Day landings | region3name=[[Orne]] | region3color=#c5995c | region3items= | region3description=the home of France's national stud farm, and Camembert cheese }} '''Upper Normandy''' (''Haute-Normandie'') {{Regionlist | regionmap= | regionmaptext=Departments of Normandy | regionmapsize=350px | region4name=[[Seine-Maritime]] | region4color=#a4c28d | region4items= | region4description=hosts the cities of Rouen and Le Havre, and the picturesque landscapes on the Alabaster Coast | region5name=[[Eure]] | region5color=#4da9c4 | region5items= | region5description=has the home and gardens of impressionist painter Claude Monet }} ==Cities and towns== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Rouen]]|lat=49.4412 | long=1.0963|wikidata=Q30974}} — Normandy's smart capital city has abundant medieval heritage, with several notable Gothic monuments and many half-timber houses. Joan of Arc met her gruesome fate here in 1431, when she was burnt at the stake as a heretic. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Alençon]]|wikidata=Q181269}} — travel through time by visiting its centuries-old buildings and streets *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bayeux]]|lat=49.2794|long=-0.7028|wikidata=Q183910}} — Pretty cathedral town that serves as a good base for visiting the eastern D-Day beaches ([[D-Day beaches#Gold|Gold]], [[D-Day beaches#Juno|Juno]] and [[D-Day beaches#Sword|Sword]]). The most well-known attraction in Bayeux is the eponymous tapestry which chronicles the Norman invasion of England in 1066. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Caen]]|lat=49.1831|long=-0.3694|wikidata=Q41185}} — In contrast to so much of olde worlde Normandy, Caen is a modern city, due to its near complete destruction in 1944, a tragic outcome meticulously recorded by the city's Musée du Mémorial. There are still some surviving relics of old Caen, including two abbeys and several churches. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Cherbourg]]|lat=49.633|long=-1.6167|wikidata=Q21008210}} — A maritime town and ferry port with two museums of national importance: the Musée de la Libération and the Cité de la Mer. Cherbourg also serves as a base for exploring the wider Cotentin peninsula and the western D-Day beaches ([[D-Day beaches#Omaha|Omaha]] and [[D-Day beaches#Utah|Utah]]). *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Dieppe]]|lat=49.9222|long=1.0786|wikidata=Q183557}} — A lively seaside resort with the closest beach to Paris, popular with weekenders and daytrippers. In 1942, it was the location of a catastrophic raid by Canadian and other Allied troops that resulted in a Nazi win; in 1944, the Canadians returned with a vengeance and liberated the town. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Honfleur]]|lat=49.4194|long=0.2325|wikidata=Q231720}} — A 17th-century harbour town with oodles of charm and character; the old port is lined with higgledy-piggledy buildings of comical width and height. Still an active fishing port, Honfleur is a renowned location for seafood restaurants. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Le Havre]]|lat=49.49000|long=0.100000|wikidata=Q42810}} — At the mouth of the Seine sits one of Europe's principal seaports, known for its art and natural history museums. Le Havre's concrete modernist city centre is the ''chef d'œuvre'' of Auguste Perret and is a {{UNESCO}}. ==Other destinations== [[Image:Monet House.jpg|thumb|Claude Monet's house in Giverny]] *{{marker |type=vicinity |name=[[D-Day beaches]]|lat=49.35|long=-0.75|wikidata=Q16470}} — On 6 June 1944, hundreds of thousands of Allied troops disembarked on French sand across five named beaches - Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword - stretching from near Cherbourg in the west to Ouistreham in the east. The ensuing Battle of Normandy and ultimate victory on the western front is commemorated at hundreds of cemeteries, memorials, services and events across the area. *{{marker |type=vicinity |name=[[Giverny]]|lat=49.0833|long=1.5333|wikidata=Q165061}} — The country home of the best-known painter of the Impressionist movement, Claude Monet. Visit the gardens which Monet considered his best work, and enjoy the bucolic village surroundings of rural Normandy. *{{marker |type=vicinity |name=[[Mont Saint-Michel]]|lat=48.636|long=-1.5114|wikidata=Q20892}} — Perhaps the most recognisable French landmark outside Paris, this real life Minas Tirith is a rocky pinnacle of an island capped with a benedictine monastery and flanked by a steep and winding town. ==Understand== ===History=== [[Image:France Bayeux Cathedral interior a.JPG|thumb|Interior of Bayeux Cathedral]] {{seealso|Kingdom of France}} Normandy is the land of the Normans, whose '''[[Vikings and the Old Norse|Norse]]''' ancestors arrived in 820 and conducted several raids in their longboats up the River Seine, terrorising and extorting the [[Franks]] out of much of their wealth. In 911, the Viking warrior leader '''Rollo''' besieged Chartres and forced the Frankish king Charles the Simple to sign a costly treaty; in exchange for ceasing their raids and protecting the coast from their Norse kin, Rollo and his people were granted the lands that became the '''Duchy of Normandy''' in perpetuity. On paper, the dukes of Normandy (as Rollo's descendants became) were vassals of the Frankish, and later French, crown. However, the early French kings were weak and controlled very little land beyond Paris, so Normandy had a lot of practical independence and leverage to expand its borders, which it did repeatedly. Normandy's most famous duke - '''William the Conqueror''' (''Guillaume le Conquérant'') - sailed an invasion fleet to [[England]] in 1066 and there crowned himself King William&nbsp;I. Thus followed a long period of Anglo-Norman domination on both sides of the Channel, and Normandy was for several centuries a part of the Kingdom of England. During this time, many defensive castles and Romanesque and Gothic churches were constructed, and the famous '''Bayeux tapestry''' was woven by now-unknown hands. This state of affairs was only altered by the Hundred Years War (1337 - 1453), as France took back more and more of its territory. During this time, French national heroine '''Joan of Arc''' (''Jeanne d'Arc'') was infamously executed by the English at [[Rouen]]. Despite this blow, the French won the war and the only part of Normandy left under English - now British - control today is the [[Channel Islands]]. Indeed, it is possession of these islands that still grants the British monarch the title Duke of Normandy. In the '''Belle-Époque''' of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Normandy was adopted as a rural bolt hole by the great and the good of the era (Gustave Flaubert, Marcel Proust, Coco Chanel), who left behind many smart seaside towns and mansions. The father of impressionist painting, '''Claude Monet''', fell in love with the region's landscape, which features in many of his paintings. Monet eventually bought a large house at [[Giverny]], where he lived for over four decades until his death in 1926. Part of [[World War II in Europe|German-occupied France]] in World War II, Normandy once more became the setting for a cross-Channel invasion, the crucial '''Operation Overlord''' conducted by Allied forces. After the [[D-Day beaches|beach landings]] on 6 June 1944, the Battle of Normandy raged until the end of August and resulted in the destruction of whole cities such as [[Caen]] and [[Le Havre]]. Despite the horrific cost, Normandy was the first part of western Europe to be freed from fascism, and the toehold the Allies gained on the continent was essential for the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany. Today, Normandy is a peaceful land that is an integral part of France. The Norman people have not forgotten the sacrifices of their liberators, and all over the region you will see French Tricolores, American Stars and Stripes, Canadian Maple Leaves and British Union Flags proudly flying. The countless '''war cemeteries and memorials''', though each owned by their respective countries' war grave commission, are lovingly tended by teams of locals, and are thus kept in immaculate condition. Normandy remains very accessible from [[United Kingdom|Britain]] and is also a favoured day or weekend trip for people from [[Paris]] and the [[Île-de-France]], due to its beautiful coast and fascinating history. ===When to visit=== [[File:Le château d'Acquigny.jpg|thumb|Typical Norman weather is characterised by rain followed by sun followed by more rain. Here is a rainbow over the Château d'Acquigny.]] The climate in Normandy is very similar to that of southern England, with mild winters and warm, sometimes hot, summers. The weather can be unpredictable and is rainy by French standards, but is also often very nice. Most people visit during the summer, from June when the annual D-Day commemorations take place, through to the end of August. While it is perfectly possible to escape the crowds in much of Normandy even in the high season, the most well-known destinations are usually thronged with international tourists in summer, often bussed in on rushed and exhausting-looking day trips from Paris. Therefore, the best time to visit the big-ticket attractions (including the [[Bayeux#Q187483|Bayeux Tapestry]], the [[D-Day beaches]] and [[D-Day beaches#Cemeteries|cemeteries]], [[Giverny]] and [[Mont Saint-Michel]]) is late spring and early autumn, where you should hopefully achieve the right balance of reasonable weather and manageable crowds. ==Talk== {{See also|France#Talk}} '''[[French phrasebook|French]]''' is the main language spoken throughout Normandy, and visitors with a knowledge of French should have no problem communicating. The local language spoken by some is '''Norman''', which is very closely related to French, though the two are not always mutually comprehensible. Like the other regional languages of France, Norman has suffered from persecution and a lack of support from central government, and mainly clings on in more rural parts of the region, such as the Cotentin Peninsula and the Pays de Caux (north of [[Le Havre]]). However, travellers hoping to encounter Norman speakers may have better luck visiting the [[Channel Islands]], where the local Norman dialects are officially recognised and promoted. Visitors with no knowledge of French should be able to get by in most cases just using English, especially when dealing with professionals in the tourist industry. However, it is customary politeness to learn at the very least a few basic phrases, and many French people take a lack of ''effort'' (rather than lack of ability) with the language as a sign of bad faith. ===Tourist information === * [http://www.normandy-tourism.org/ Normandy Tourism] website ==Get in== {{infobox|Ferry routes from the [[Channel Islands]] |[http://www.condorferries.co.uk/ Condor Ferries] from [[Jersey]] (Saint Helier) to: * [[Saint-Malo]]: 1 hr 15 min [http://www.manche-iles.com/en/ Manche îles express] from [[Alderney]] and [[Guernsey]] to: * Diélette, near [[Cherbourg]]: around 1 hr Manche îles express from [[Jersey]] (Gorey) to: * Barneville-Carteret, on Cotentin: 55 min * Diélette: 1 hr 25 min Manche îles express from Jersey (Saint Helier) to: * Barneville-Carteret: 1 hr 5 min * [[Granville (Normandy)|Granville]]: 1 hr 25 min}} {{infobox|Ferry routes from [[England]] |[http://www.brittany-ferries.com/ Brittany Ferries] from [[Portsmouth]] to: * [[Cherbourg]]: 3 hr express catamaran, several sailings per day * [[Le Havre]]: 8 hr overnight "économie", i.e. no cabins * [[Ouistreham]], near [[Caen]]: 6-7 hr daytime or overnight, cruise ship-style with cabins, two sailings per day * [[Saint-Malo]], near [[Mont Saint-Michel]]: 12 hr overnight, cruise ship-style with cabins Brittany Ferries from [[Poole]] to: * [[Cherbourg]]: just over 4 hr [http://www.condorferries.co.uk/ Condor Ferries] from [[Poole]] to: * [[Saint-Malo]] in 8 hr, including a 50-min stop at either Jersey or Guernsey. [https://www.dfdsseaways.co.uk/ DFDS Seaways] from [[Newhaven]] to: * [[Dieppe]]: 3 hr-3 hr 30 min, two sailings per day Travellers from [[London]] and [[South East England]] may find it quicker and more flexible to use the shorter (1 hr 30 min) and much more frequent services between [[Dover (England)|Dover]] and [[Calais]], with [https://www.dfdsseaways.co.uk/ DFDS] or [http://www.poferries.com/en/dover-calais P&O Ferries]. From Calais, follow the driving directions in ''By car''.}} {{infobox|Ferry routes from [[Ireland]] |All services from Ireland to France are overnight and provide cabins. [http://www.brittany-ferries.co.uk/ferry-routes/ferries-france/cork-roscoff Brittany Ferries] from [[Cork]] to: * [[Roscoff]], in [[Brittany]]: 14 hr [https://www.irishferries.com/uk-en/to-france-from-ireland/ Irish Ferries] from [[Dublin]] to: * [[Cherbourg]]: 20 hr, departs Saturday afternoon, travel overnight and arrive Sunday morning from [[Rosslare]] to: * [[Cherbourg]]: 7 hr 30 min, several times a week * [[Roscoff]]: 17 hr 30 min, summer only}} ===By car=== From [[Paris]], take the A13 ''autoroute'' (motorway) in the direction of [[Rouen]], which takes about 2 hr. [[Caen]] is around 2 hr 45 min from the capital, while [[Cherbourg]] is about 4 hr. The A28 links traffic from the south, i.e. [[Le Mans]] and [[Tours]], for the A10 from [[Bordeaux]] and ultimately [[Spain]]. Those coming in from [[Rennes]] and the rest of [[Brittany]] should find the A84 helpful. If driving from the north ([[Hauts-de-France]] and the [[Benelux]]), the A28 branches off the A16 at [[Abbeville]] and heads down into [[Upper Normandy]]. Driving times from the [[Calais]] ferry port and Channel Tunnel terminal are around 2 hr to Rouen using the A16 and A28 motorways. ===By train=== [[Image:Vieuxbassin7.jpg|thumb|300px|Yachts moored in Honfleur]] Normandy is not connected to any [[high speed rail]] (TGV) lines, so services to and around the region are rather slow by French standards. ====From within France==== SNCF [http://www.sncf.com/en/trains/intercites Intercités] trains depart from [[Paris]] Saint-Lazare to [[Rouen]] Rive Droite (1 hr 30 min), [[Le Havre]] (2 hr), [[Caen]] (2 hr), and [[Cherbourg]] (3 hr), among other places. You can catch trains from these cities to other destinations in the region. For the south of the region, trains leave Paris Montparnasse to towns such as [[Argentan]] and [[Granville (Normandy)|Granville]]. For [[Mont Saint Michel]], the best option is to take a TGV from Gare Montparnasse to [[Rennes]], then a bus. Rail services from other parts of France are not so great, but still doable. For instance, direct services from [[Tours]] to Caen take around 3 hours, while those travelling from [[Nantes]] to Caen should expect a 4-hour journey, changing trains in [[Le Mans]]. When coming from [[Lille]], which is a hub for [[high speed trains]] from the [[Benelux]] and [[Germany]], a direct 2 hr 45 min journey to Rouen is possible. ====From the United Kingdom==== [https://www.eurostar.com/ Eurostar] links [[London]] to [[Paris]] Nord in 2 hr 15 mins. From Gare du Nord, it is just one stop on Line E of the [https://www.transilien.com/en RER] (express metro) to Haussmann Saint-Lazare, from where you should follow the instructions above. Alternatively, you may wish to take it slow, by combining the train with a ferry crossing. On the British side, [[Portsmouth]] and [[Newhaven]] harbours both receive regular [http://www.nationalrail.co.uk trains] from London and many other places. Three ferry ports in Normandy ([[Cherbourg]], [[Le Havre]] and [[Dieppe]]) have railway stations served by regional trains. ===By boat=== If you have a seagoing vessel at your disposal, why not make the journey across the English Channel yourself? It's not ''that'' far, only 120 km (65 nautical miles) at its furthest between [[West Sussex]] and the [[D-Day beaches]], and Normandy has many attractive harbour towns to moor in when you arrive, with the guarantee of some delicious ''moules normandes'' in a local restaurant. That being said, the majority of visitors who make a sea crossing will do so on board a ferry, and the blue infoboxes on the right (or above if you're on mobile) compile the various routes to Normandy and nearby ports from the [[British Isles]]. The length of each crossing varies widely, as do the facilities on board each vessel, ranging from a passenger seating area with just a drinks machine for refreshment, right up to "cruise ship-style" full board with cabins, restaurants and entertainment all provided. If you're bringing your vehicle, remember to drive on the right as soon as you disembark! ===By plane=== Normandy is not overly blessed with air links, and has only two small international airports: * {{go | name=Caen Carpiquet Airport | alt={{IATA|CFR}} | url=http://www.caen.aeroport.fr/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Caen – Carpiquet Airport | image=Aéroport de caen carpiquet.JPG | wikidata=Q1431038 | content=A small selection of year-round domestic services. In summer, [https://en.chalair.fr/ Chalair] fly from [[SOU|Southampton]] and [[KIR|Kerry]]. }} * {{go | name=Deauville Normandie Airport | alt={{IATA|DOL}} | url=http://en.deauville.aeroport.fr | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Deauville – Normandie Airport | image=Aérogare de l'aéroport international de Deauville-Normandie.jpg | wikidata=Q1708737 | content=A seasonal airport with a handful of summer flights from Mediterranean resorts. }} The international airports near Normandy are: * '''[[Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport]]''' ({{IATA|CDG}}): France's main hub receives hundreds of flights a day from all over the world. Driving times to [[Rouen]] are about 2 hr, and to Caen around 3 hr. * '''[https://www.aeroportparisbeauvais.com/en/passengers/ Paris Beauvais Airport]''' ({{IATA|BVA}}): a hub of [https://www.ryanair.com/ Ryanair] and other low cost airlines which has direct links from many parts of Europe. Beauvais is probably closer to Rouen than Paris, at about 90 km distant. * '''[http://www.rennes.aeroport.fr/ Rennes Saint-Jacques Airport]''' ({{IATA|RNS}}): flights from a selection of European hubs ([[Amsterdam Schiphol]], [[DUB|Dublin]], [[Frankfurt Airport|Frankfurt]], [[London Gatwick]], [[Manchester Airport|Manchester]] and even [[CDG|Paris CDG]]) plus a fair few domestic flights from elsewhere in France. Close to Lower Normandy. ==Get around== [[Image:Pont de Normandie from north.jpg|thumb|The startlingly steep Pont de Normandie suspension bridge breaks up the motorway monotony of the A29.]] ===By car=== {{see also|Driving in France}} Unfortunately the best and quickest way to get around Normandy, particularly the rural areas, is by private car. The road network is well-developed, though Normandy and north-west France in general tends to have fewer motorways (''autoroutes'', with A-prefixed route numbers) and more national roads (''routes nationales'', with N-prefixed route numbers). This has the advantage of far fewer toll roads than in other parts of the country. The major roads of the region are: * '''A13 / N13''' ''(west - east)'': [[Cherbourg]], [[D-Day beaches]], N174, [[Bayeux]], [[Caen]] (A84, N158), [[Deauville]] (A132), A29, Seine Valley, A28, [[Rouen]], A154, [[Giverny]], ''[[Île-de-France]], towards [[Paris]]'' * '''A28''' ''(north - south)'': ''[[Hauts-de-France]], from [[Abbeville]]'', A29, Rouen, A13, [[Alençon]], ''[[Pays de la Loire]], towards [[Le Mans]]'' * '''A29''': ''Hauts-de-France, from [[Amiens]]'', A28, A151, A150, [[Le Havre]], Pont de Normandie, [[Honfleur]], Deauville, A13 * '''A84''': Caen (A13, N13, N158), N174 / [[Saint-Lô]], [[Granville (Normandy)|Granville]], [[Avranches]], [[Mont Saint-Michel]], ''[[Brittany]], towards [[Rennes]]'' * '''A88 / N158''': Caen (A13, N13, A84), [[Falaise]], [[Argentan]], A28 * '''A150''': Rouen, A151, A29 * '''A151 / N27''': A150 from Rouen, A29, [[Dieppe]] * '''A154 / N154''': A13 from Rouen, [[Évreux]], N12 ''towards Paris'' * '''N31''': Rouen (A28), ''to [[Beauvais]] and [[Reims]]'' * '''N174''' ''(marked as E3 on some maps)'': N13 / D-Day beaches, Saint-Lô, A84 ===By public transport=== Regional public transport (trains and coaches) is provided by [https://nomad.normandie.fr/welcome-normandy-transport-network-nomad Nomad]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Use the Nomad website to plan journeys and suss out maps. There are some advantages to using public transport; many attractions offer a 10% discount to visitors who arrive by train, bus or bicycle, while the Normandy Discovery Pass gives two adults and up to three children unlimited travel for €20 every weekend of the year. Transport within larger urban areas is on a par with French standards, which is to say it's good. Rouen has a metro, Caen and Le Havre have trams, and all three have extensive bus services. These systems are separate from Nomad. ====By train==== ''See also: [[Rail travel in France]]'' Normandy lacks high-speed rail, and its train network, while not bad, is best described as patchy. Upper Normandy, especially around [[Rouen]] and the Seine Valley, is part of the Paris commuter belt so has decent coverage. The more rural [[Lower Normandy]] has fewer lines, and fewer trains serving them. Rail travel is nonetheless an economical way to get around Normandy. Most trains are provided by '''[https://www.ter.sncf.com/normandie Nomad Train]''', from whom you can purchase tickets and view a [https://www.ter.sncf.com/normandie/se-deplacer/carte-du-reseau map] of the region's network. ====By coach==== '''Nomad Car''' run medium-distance bus services across Normandy. Single tickets are between €2 and €5, depending on how far you go. Travel cards with 10 trips loaded cost between €15 and €40, again according to distance travelled. ==See== [[File:Abbaye aux Hommes et église St-Etienne.jpg|thumb|Abbaye aux Hommes and Saint-Étienne Church, Caen]] ===Castles=== Both the 'ruined fortress' and 'fancy château' varieties are present in Normandy. A notable example of the former is Richard the Lionheart's '''Château Gaillard''' in [[Les Andelys]], a seemingly-impregnable fortress commanding an impressive vantage point, but which lasted only a few years before being captured after a seven-month siege. An example of a castle that provided comfort as well as defence can be seen in the '''Dukes' Castle''' at [[Alençon]]. There are also some châteaux in the region with no defensive purpose which were built purely to show off their owners' wealth and prestige. Examples include the slightly worn-around-the-edges renaissance '''[[Les Andelys#Q1989567|Château de Gaillon]]''' in the town of the same name, and the 17th-century '''Château de Balleroy''' near [[Bayeux#Go next|Bayeux]], which is now owned by the hot air balloon-obsessed Forbes family, of American business media fame. ===Coast=== Normandy has several named coasts, each with a different character. Furthest east is the iconic '''Alabaster Coast''' (''Côte d'Albâtre''), known for its white chalk cliffs, mirroring similar formations on the south coast of England. [[Étretat]] has the most well-known of the cliffs, while [[Dieppe]] is more of a beach town with wartime history to boot. The good-looking resorts of the '''Flowery Coast''' (''Côte Fleurie''), including [[Deauville]] and [[Honfleur]], are rather posh; this area is popular with second homeowners from Paris, with good reason. Continuing west are the beaches of the lesser-known '''Mother of Pearl Coast''' (''Côte de Nacre'') around [[Ouistreham]], then the infamous '''[[D-Day]] landing beaches''' (''plages du débarquement''), which stretch for many miles right up the '''Cotentin Peninsula'''. At the top of Cotentin (near [[Cherbourg]]) are the lively harbours of Barfleur and Saint-Vaast, along with wild and rugged landscapes around La Hague. The west coast of the peninsula offers a long stretch of sandy beaches that lead south past [[Granville (Normandy)|Granville]] all the way to [[Mont Saint-Michel]] and the [[Brittany|Breton]] border. ===Christianity=== There are literally hundreds of medieval churches, abbeys and cathedrals scattered around Normandy, primarily in the Gothic and Romanesque styles. '''Romanesque architecture''', characterised by rounded arches and lots of pillars, is often known to the British as "Norman", as it was they who introduced the style to many parts of Europe. Significant examples of this style include the Church of Saint-Étienne and its abbeys in [[Caen]], [[Upper Normandy|Fécamp]]'s Benedictine abbey, and [[Bayeux]] Cathedral. '''[[Gothic architecture]]''' developed from Romanesque in neighbouring [[Hauts-de-France|Picardy]], but is more than fairly represented in Normandy too. Gothic churches tend to be more elaborately designed than Romanesque ones, with pointed arches, flying buttresses, complex stained-glass windows and gargoyles. Important examples include Notre Dame de l'Assomption Cathedral and Saint-Ouen church, both in [[Rouen]]. The abbey at [[Mont Saint-Michel]] is notable for its Gothic style, but with several older elements retaining the Romanesque. ==Do== [[File:Etretat - panoramio - David Sánchez Núñez.jpg|thumb|350px|Flying along the Alabaster Coast]] The '''[https://avenuevertelondonparis.co.uk/ Avenue Verte]''' cycle path links [[Paris]] and [[London]]. In Normandy, you can follow the route from [[Dieppe]] inland through the countryside of Seine-Maritime to [[Beauvais]] over the [[Picardy|Picard]] border. This section is 122 km in total, and is fully signposted with distinctive green signs. '''Grandes Randonnées''' (GRs) are long-distance footpaths. They are usually well-maintained, and waymarked by horizontal red and white bands, which are painted on fence posts, trees and at the bases of pylons. You can choose to go the whole way if you have lots of time on your hands! Otherwise, select day trips or an itinerary for a few days walking along the most interesting parts. Normandy has two coastal GRs of note: * The '''[[GR 21]]''' tracks north-east from [[Le Havre]] to Le Tréport on the Norman/Picard border. This 186-km route takes in the entire Alabaster Coast, and its glorious chalk cliffs and snug harbour towns. Like other long-distance paths, the GR21 lends itself to much shorter walks, with highlights around [[Étretat]] and Dieppe being especially favoured. * The '''[[GR 223]]''' (''Sentier des Douaniers/Custom Officers' Way'') goes all the way from [[Honfleur]] in the east along the coast of Calvados, around Cotentin to [[Mont Saint Michel]], on the [[Brittany|Breton]] border in the west. The entire walk takes a month, but most prefer to pick sections according to their interest. History fans often choose the [[D-Day beaches]], while lovers of spectacular nature (cliffs and coves) prefer the walk around Cap de la Hague, west of [[Cherbourg]], and others still opt to approach [[Mont Saint-Michel]] around its eponymous bay. ==Eat== [[File:.Tapisserie de Bayeux 1066 1082 Banquet de Guillaume le conquérant.jpg|thumb|300px|Normans have always known how to enjoy good food. Here is William the Conqueror celebrating his Hastings victory over a feast with friends, as depicted on the Bayeux Tapestry.]] {{quote| :''O ! Cher poète, je te fais don'' :''De ma recette : tripes à la mode'' :''Pour cuire de bonne façon'' :''Parfaitement selon le code'' | author=Opening stanza of Jean Le Hir's recipe for Caen tripe}} Norman cuisine is pretty close to the standard [[French cuisine]], though is based around the three main products of the region: seafood, apples and dairy. Its regional specialities are guaranteed to satisfy the most demanding gastronome. ===Starters and snacks=== * '''Foie gras''' — Though much more associated with the south west of France, production of this goose/duck liver pâté has been introduced to Normandy. The birds are force fed to make them as fat as possible. * '''Omelettes''' — A must-try when in [[Mont Saint-Michel]]; the local omelettes are creamy and light. The most famous omelette restaurant is easily La Mère Poulard, but long wait times and high prices may drive you elsewhere. * '''Sausages''' — Popular local varieties include the ''andouille de [[Vire]]'', a chitterling charcuterie that is often served as an apéritif with a glass of <abbr title="Norman apple brandy">calvados</abbr>, and ''boudin de Mortagne'', <abbr title="blood sausage">black pudding</abbr> from the far south of Orne, east of [[Alençon]]. ===Trou normand=== The trou normand (literally: "Norman hole") is a glass of calvados (see [[#Drink|below]]), often accompanied by an apple sorbet, and served between courses during a long and heavy meal as a palate-cleanser, a digestion aid and a fortifier, to make sure the diner is ready to continue eating! It is most often served between the fish course and the main course, or in less elaborate meals as a bridge between the main dish and the dessert. ===Main meals=== [[File:LaMerePoulardMontSaint-MichelNormandy.jpg|thumb|La Mère Poulard, Mont Saint-Michel]] [[File:Tripes à la mode de Caen.jpg|thumb|Tripes à la mode de Caen]] Normandy is renowned for its variety of meats: * '''Agneau de pré-salé''' — Lamb raised on the salt marshes near [[Mont Saint-Michel]]. The meat has a very delicate flavour, and can be prepared in any number of ways classic to French butchery and gastronomy. * '''Canard au sang''' or '''canard à la Rouennaise''' — Duck or duckling served with a sauce composed of the same duck's blood and bone marrow, extracted by a special press. Every part of the bird is used, so on the menu you might encounter ''magret'' (breast), ''foie'' (liver), ''patte'' (leg), or a little bit of everything. The thought of this may well make your stomach turn, but if you have good reason to trust your chef, give it a try. This speciality of [[Rouen]] is considered a delicacy. * '''Poulet vallée d'Auge''' — Chicken from the Auge Valley, in the area around [[Lisieux]]. The bird is carved into large chunks and cooked in a sauce of calvados, mushrooms, butter and cream. Often served with a creamy chopped potato, bacon and cider mixture. * '''Tripes à la mode de [[Caen]]''' — Beef <abbr title="stomach">tripe</abbr>, hooves and bones, stewed in a whole bottle of cider and glass of calvados with carrots, onions, leeks, garlic, cloves, peppercorn and a ''bouquet garni''. The autumn dish of choice for many Normans. Its official recipe, codified into poetry, is preserved by a guild of tripe butchers in Caen. While almost certainly dating from no earlier than the 14th century, local legend states that this was William the Conqueror's favourite meal. Specialities from the sea include: * '''Mussels''' (''moules'') — Of course you can find the ubiquitous ''moules marinières'' (mussels steamed in white wine and shallots) at pretty much any seafood restaurant, but the local version, ''moules normandes'', is also delicious. To the basic marinière sauce is added an unhealthy portion of cream and, if you're really lucky, bacon lardons. Both varieties are usually served with plenty of <abbr title="chips or French fries">''frites''</abbr>. * '''Oysters''' (''huîtres'') — Normandy produces some 25% of the oysters grown in France, and Normans tend to enjoy them most at Christmas. The industry is concentrated on the Cotentin Peninsula, at two different crus: ''Côte Ouest'' around [[Deauville]], and Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, east of [[Cherbourg]]. * '''Sole à la dieppoise''' — Sole cooked in the oven, basted with white wine and fish stock, and served with mussels, mushrooms and sometimes prawns. As the name suggests, this is a speciality of [[Dieppe]]. ===Cheese=== [[File:Camembert de Normandie (AOP) 15.jpg|thumb|Close-up of a camembert]] Normandy is the home of several world-famous varieties, all soft, all made with cows' milk and all named after their town or village of supposed origin: * '''Camembert''' — A lovely round and creamy cheese. Some prefer it chilled, and therefore fairly solid, while others prefer to eat at room temperature, when it oozes. Local legend attributes the cheese's creation to the French Revolution, when Marie Harel, a farmer's wife resident in the village of Camembert (department of Orne, 25 km north-east of [[Argentan]]), was advised on the recipe for a good brie by a priest, as thanks for sheltering him during the Reign of Terror, when the clergy were heavily persecuted. She gave the cheese her own spin, and thus camembert was born. * '''Livarot''' — Soft and pungent, with a peach-coloured rind. It is also referred to as the "Colonel", due to its stripy packaging resembling a colonel's uniform. Livarot is a village some 20 km south-west of [[Lisieux]]. * '''Neufchâtel''' — Soft, slightly crumbly and mould-ripened cheese with the aroma and taste of mushrooms. It is usually molded into the shape of a heart. It is made in the area around Neufchâtel-en-Bray, north-east of [[Rouen]]. * '''Pont-L'Évêque''' — Pungent and creamy with a slightly yellowed appearance, made in the eponymous town inland from [[Deauville]] since at least as early as the 12th century. ===Dessert=== [[File:Pommes à cidre.jpg|thumb|How do you like ''them'' apples? Normandy's fruit of temptation.]] Local desserts include: * '''Bourdelots''' — an apple and calvados pastry, eaten hot, cold or <abbr title="The pastry is coated in calvados, and set alight. The alcohol should mostly burn off, but the flavour and smokiness remain">flambéd</abbr> with calvados. * '''Omelette vallée d'Auge''' — a sugary omelette filled with buttery diced apple and crème fraîche, flambéd with calvados. * '''Pain perdu à la normande''' — sweet French toast served with (you guessed it) apple jam and pommeau, which is an apple liqueur. * '''Tarte aux pommes''' — available all over France, but since Normandy is the land of the apple, these tarts aren't hard to find. * '''Teurgoule''' — a tasty local variant of rice pudding, cooked for many hours in a low-heat oven, it is surprisingly light and refreshing. Don't be surprised for it be accompanied by an apple compote, or caramel apple, or just fresh apples... ==Drink== Move over, wine! There are no commercial vineyards in Normandy, and although wine from other regions and countries is readily available in shops and restaurants, the most popular local tipples are apple-based. * '''Cider''' (''cidre'') — Like [[Brittany]], Normandy is cider country. Much like wine, cider comes in different varieties that are intended for different purposes, so you should pay attention to the following words on the label. '''Doux''' indicates a sweet cider, with a strong apple flavour and low alcohol percentage (3% or below), that is best drunk with dessert or by itself. '''Demi-sec'''/'''brut''' is sharper and fresher, with an alcohol content of between three and five percent. This kind of cider is more common as an apéritif, or as an accompaniment to local cuisine, especially seafood. Unlike in certain other countries, notably the United States, cider in Normandy is always alcoholic and always sparkling (''pétillant''). * '''Perry''' (''poiré'') — Similar to cider, but made from pears. Production is considerably limited compared to its apple-based counterpart. * '''Calvados''' — A brandy made from distilled cider or perry, subject to an ''appellation d'origine contrôlée'' (AOC), restricting production to a specific area with strict quality controls. Calvados is famously used for the ''trou normand'' drink between courses of a long meal. ===Liqueurs=== [[File:Cider seller in the harbour in Honfleur.jpg|thumb|350px|Cider seller on the harbour in Honfleur]] * '''Pommeau''' — A 16-18% proof apéritif made from mixing calvados and non-fermented apples (or pears, in the case of '''poirineau'''). * '''Bénédictine''' — A herbal liqueur with its own creation myth (i.e. that the medieval benedictine monks of Fécamp, and not 19th-century entrepreneur Alexandre Le Grand, invented it), but without a whiff of apple in it. Consumed as a digestif, at 40% proof, bénédictine is also the unofficial match-day drink for England's [[Burnley]] FC. ==Sleep== Normandy has lots of tourist accommodation. Most large towns and cities have numerous hotels and guest houses (''chambres d'hôte''), and this is especially true on the seaside. In the countryside, there are usually self-catering cottages (''gîtes'') and campsites; many small towns and villages provide overnight parking areas for campervans and caravans, often with electricity hookups and other facilities such as drinking water taps or picnic tables. [[Caen]] can be a useful base to explore Normandy as a whole, being roughly in the middle of the region, having lots of cheap accommodation and great access to several motorways in all directions. [[Rouen]] has plenty of overnight options too, and is a more attractive destination city, but its far eastern position in Normandy makes it somewhat impractical for visiting many of the region's main sites. ==Go next== [[File:Le Tréport.jpg|thumb|350px|Typical brick terrace houses in Le Tréport]] ===Staying in France=== *'''[[Brittany]]''' is Normandy's Celtic neighbour, and shares this region's affinity with cider and seafood. The rugged Breton coastline, quaint fishing ports and historical cities such as the little-visited but surprisingly cosmopolitan [[Rennes]] and the walled port city of [[Saint-Malo]] tempt many travellers to combine Normandy and Brittany into one trip. *'''[[Centre-Val de Loire]]''' was the heartland of the French Renaissance and has the extraordinary castles to prove it. Centred on the [[Loire Valley]], this region combines fine wine and dining with splendid Gothic cathedrals at [[Chartres]] and [[Tours]], while [[Orléans]] hosted Joan of Arc's greatest victory before her success turned to ashes in Rouen. *'''[[Hauts-de-France]]''' is the land where much of the [[First World War]] was fought, barely 20 years before the events of the second. As well as a large number of memorials and cemeteries, the region has a picturesque coast, diverse cities such as [[Lille]] and [[Amiens]], and many fine Gothic churches and their belfries. *'''[[Île-de-France]]''' can be reached by following the Seine inland. The Palace of [[Versailles]] and its glorious gardens are readily accessible by train from Rouen, and the glittering lights of [[Paris]] are just a bit further. Wealthy and sophisticated Île-de-France is a place where even a mouse can own a [[Disneyland Paris|château]]. *'''[[Pays de la Loire]]''' covers the most downstream part of the [[Loire Valley]] and a section of Atlantic coastline. Close to Normandy is the [[Le Mans]] racing circuit, while further south is the [[Angers|Anjou]] homeland of the Plantagenets, the royal house which succeeded the thrones of Normandy and England. ===Across the sea=== [[File:Brittany ferry.jpg|thumb|300px|The good ship ''Normandie'' crossing the English Channel]] Normandy has excellent maritime connections with the [[British Isles]]; see [[#Get in|above]] for details. The following countries are not part of the [[Schengen Area]], so you will need a passport and/or other travel documents to visit: *The '''[[Channel Islands]]''' are part of Normandy, but very much not part of France. '''[[Jersey]]''' and '''[[Guernsey]]''' are in fact two mostly-autonomous dependencies of the [[United Kingdom|British]] crown, and form an attractive archipelago of small and pretty islands. *'''[[England]]''' lies on the other side of ''la Manche''. '''[[Newhaven]]''' is a gateway to [[Sussex (England)|Sussex]]'s chalk downland and cliffs, and the trendy resort city of [[Brighton]]. '''[[Portsmouth]]''''s naval dockyards are just one of many attractions in historical [[Hampshire]]. '''[[Poole]]''' is the watery playground of the wealthy and well-situated for exploring [[Dorset]]'s prehistoric coastline. *'''[[Ireland]]''' is an overnight ferry crossing, but is well worth the journey. '''[[Cork]]''' is an urban gateway to the Emerald Isle's mythical [[Southwest Ireland|south west]], while '''[[Rosslare]]''' has the beaches of [[County Wexford]] where ''Saving Private Ryan'' was filmed. Travellers daring the 20-hour crossing to '''[[Dublin]]''' will be rewarded with a hundred thousand welcomes and a stiff pint of Guinness. {{IsPartOf|France}} {{usableregion}} {{geo|49.2000|0.0167|zoom=8}} t538ho5gvijq2e78sagd2jqolrju9rf 0 25092 5288936 5260123 2026-06-06T20:25:24Z ~2026-33386-11 2419227 /* See */ 5288936 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northern_Rivers_Banner.jpg}} The '''Northern Rivers''' region is on the far North Coast of [[New South Wales]], stretching from [[Grafton (New South Wales)|Grafton]] to the [[Tweed Heads|Tweed]] on the [[Queensland]] border. ==Cities== {{Mapframe|-29.02 |152.68|zoom=8}}{{mapshape|wikidata=Q49753363,Q752636,Q805266,Q753599,Q283019,Q753455,Q820691,Q263160|stroke-opacity=0.05}} ===Ballina and Lismore Shires=== * {{Marker|type=city |lat=-28.868089|long=153.556738|zoom=11 |name=[[Ballina (New South Wales)|Ballina]]|image=|wikidata=Q805263}} (includes {{Marker|type=city |lat=-28.85|long=153.433333|zoom=11 |name=Alstonville |image=|wikidata=Q964216}}) – regional centre of the Northern Rivers, home to the Big Prawn * {{Marker|type=city |lat=-28.8|long=153.583333|zoom=11 |name=[[Lennox Head]] |image=}} – coastal village popular with beachgoers * {{Marker|type=city |lat=-28.812069|long=153.287676|zoom=11 |name= [[Lismore (New South Wales)|Lismore]] |image=|wikidata=Q35001}} – largest town in the region * {{Marker|type=city |lat=-28.579283|long=153.230391|zoom=11 |name=[[Nimbin]] |image=|wikidata=Q991237}} – alternative community in the Byron/Lismore hinterland ===Byron Shire=== * {{Marker|type=city |lat=-28.684816|long=153.515309|zoom=11 |name=[[Bangalow]] |image=}} – federation-style village * {{Marker|type=city |lat=-28.644744|long=153.621376|zoom=11 |name=[[Byron Bay]] |image=|wikidata=Q1018597}} – once an alternative lifestyle town, now a booming beachfront destination, firmly on the backpacker and seachanger route * {{Marker|type=city |lat=-28.55|long=153.5|zoom=11 |name=[[Mullumbimby]]|image= }} – alternative Hinterland community * {{Marker|type=city |lat=-28.522|long=153.54|zoom=11 |name=[[Ocean Shores (New South Wales)|Ocean Shores]] |image=|wikidata=Q7076068}} – a beach town ===Clarence Valley=== * {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Grafton (New South Wales)|Grafton]]|wikidata=Q1025587}} – city of Jacaranda trees on the Clarence River * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Maclean]]|wikidata=Q2021276}} – a riverside town along the banks of the Clarence River * {{Marker|type=city |lat=-29.436310|long=153.330331|zoom=11 |name=[[Yamba]] |image=|wikidata=Q2135834}} – a beachside town that has one of Australia's most famous surf breaks ===Richmond Valley=== * {{Marker|type=city |lat=-28.858461|long=153.039279|zoom=11 |name=[[Casino]] |image=|wikidata=Q277624}} – "Beef capital of Australia" * {{Marker|type=city |lat=-29.116667|long=153.433333|zoom=11 |name=[[Evans Head]] |image=}} – small coastal town to the east of Woodburn * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Woodburn (New South Wales)|Woodburn]]|wikidata=Q14935043}} – small riverside town along the Richmond River ===Tweed and Kyogle Shires=== * {{Marker|type=city |lat=-28.333|long=153.383|zoom=11 |name=[[Murwillumbah]] |image=|wikidata=Q828526}} – near the foothills of Mt Wollumbin (Mt Warning); sugarcane-growing town * {{Marker|type=city |lat=-28.176633|long=153.540718|zoom=11 |name=[[Tweed Heads]] |image=|wikidata=Q606344}} – the southern, low-rise, and more family friendly end of the Gold Coast * {{Marker|type=city |lat=-28.6254|long=153.0026|zoom=11 |name=[[Kyogle]]|wikidata=Q1795127}} – a gateway to Border Ranges National Park and Toonumbar National Park ==Other destinations== * {{Marker|type=vicinity |lat=-29.1500|long=153.2833|zoom=11 |name=[[New Italy]] |image=}} – a popular roadside town, with the first Europeans who settled here being farmers from northern Italy (specifically around Veneto) * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Border Ranges National Park]]|wikidata=Q893407}} – another Gondwana WHS park with impressive eye-catching lookouts. * {{marker|type=vicinity|wikidata=Q109544378|name=[[Cape Byron State Conservation Area]]|image=}} – home to the easternmost point of the Australian mainland * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mallanganee National Park]]|wikidata=Q1165123}} – not a particularly famous park, but makes up one of the world heritage parks * {{marker|type=vicinity|wikidata=Q368670|name=[[Mebbin National Park]]}} – small park also a world heritage site * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Nightcap National Park]]|wikidata=Q1573530}} – the most visited Gondwana WHS national park in the Northern Rivers * {{Marker|type=vicinity |lat=-28.387057|long=153.326040|zoom=11 |name=[[Wollumbin National Park]] |image=}} – a large extinct shield volcano ==Understand== The Northern Rivers is a region on the North Coast of New South Wales and has a variety of beaches, rivers, world heritage listed rainforests and rural scenery. The region has seven different shires with a diverse range of unique towns and villages. ===History=== The Northern Rivers has a history of Italian settlement and the locality of New Italy was settled in 1882 by Italian pioneers who attempted to cultivate the area's difficult interior, while additional phases of migration followed in the 1920s and again with the post-World War II influx of European migrants anxious to escape their war-ravaged country. They typically leased hilly land from local farmers on which they cultivated bananas, moving to other trades when the local banana industry declined when refrigeration and better transport links facilitated the supply of cheaper competition from Queensland. ==Get in== ===By plane=== *[https://www.goldcoastairport.com.au/ Coolangatta Airport] ({{IATA|OOL}}) — has domestic flights and international flights from [[New Zealand]], [[Malaysia]], and [[Japan]]. It often has cheaper flights and cheaper car hire than Ballina. There are a number of transport operators from the airport to Byron Bay. For example, [http://www.byronbayexpress.com.au/ Byron Bay - Surfers Express] do pick-up and drop-off at the airport in their runs between Byron Bay and Surfers Paradise for $27. [http://www.xcede.com.au/ Xcede Airport Transfers]{{Dead link|date=April 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offer shuttle services direct to the door. *[https://ballinabyronairport.com.au/ Ballina Airport] ({{IATA|BNK}}) — there are flights from [[Sydney]] and [[Melbourne]]. There are regular shuttle services from the airport and most of them are door to door. Book online to save money. [http://www.xcede.com.au/ Xcede Airport Transfers]{{Dead link|date=April 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and [http://www.stevestours.com.au/ Steve's Tours Airport Express]{{Dead link|date=March 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offer shuttle services direct to your door from $18. [http://www.blanchs.com.au/ Blanchs] bus service costs $10, but isn't door to door and travels through other towns on the way. Clarence Valley Airport (Grafton) and Lismore Airport used to have services from Rex, but operations ceased in 2022. ===By train=== [https://transportnsw.info/regional NSW TrainLink] passenger trains run the inland route to [[Grafton (New South Wales)|Grafton]], [[Casino]] and then towards [[Brisbane]] via [[Kyogle]]. Coaches connect the coastal towns from Casino or Grafton. ===By bus=== Many backpackers catch the coaches that ply the [[Brisbane]] to [[Sydney]] route. ==Get around== ===By car=== If you want to get outside of the main centres, then you will need a car, or to take a tour. Public Transport is limited however the following should allow a more adventurous traveller to get around. ===By bus=== Buslines Group provide public transport to Ballina, Lismore, Casino, Kyogle, Evans Head, Woodburn and Coraki. They also provide less frequent connections to Grafton and Tenterfield. Study the timetable before travelling and be sure you won't be stranded. Most of the drivers are fairly friendly and the buses are in radio contact with each other so connections should be fairly easily made. Blanch's bus company provide service to Ballina, Lennox Head, Byron Bay, Bangalow and Mullumbimby. Services on Route 640 at least are around every 2 hours on weekdays and Saturdays at least during daylight hours. The Sunday service exists however it is limited. There are numerous other operators who run school buses around the region. These allow regular passengers however the primary drawback is they are only running at school times. ==See== * The Northern Rivers is home to 5 World Heritage listed national parks, the most bio-diverse region in Australia and stunningly beautiful * The beaches in this area are beautiful, and worth exploring. * Picturesque scenic communities can be seen across the Northern Rivers region. ==Do== *{{do | name=Tweed Tourism Inc | alt=Tweed Heads, Murwillumbah and Kingscliff Visitor Information Centres | url=http://www.tweedtourism.com.au | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+61 7 5536 6737 | tollfree=1800 674 414 | hours= | price= | content=Operating the Visitor Information Centres at Tweed Heads, Kingscliff and Murwillumbah. Maps, posters and souvenirs. Accommodation, tour and cruise booking service. Murwillumbah and Tweed Heads Centres open 7 days. Kingscliff Centre open Wednesday to Sunday. }} * Take the tourist drive from Murwillumbah to Tweed Heads – this will take you through the Tweed River, as well as the coastal areas. ==Eat== The type of food offered in the Northern Rivers varies by city and town, so not every place has something that will suit your tastebuds. The town of [[Casino]] is well known for its beef and the town markets itself as the "beef capital of Australia", while other cities like [[Ballina (New South Wales)|Ballina]] or [[Byron Bay]] are well known for their seafood. Those on vegetarian, halal or kosher diets won't find it too difficult to find food that suits them in larger towns like [[Byron Bay]], but might find it harder in towns like [[Casino]]. ==Drink== ==Stay safe== Always swim between the flags when swimming. Crime is not a huge problem in most of the Northern Rivers, but is significantly much more of a problem than it is compared to the rest of New South Wales. Drink spiking is something that commonly occurs in [[Byron Bay]], and one should be aware of it. See [[Byron Bay#Stay safe]] for more about this, while other towns such as [[Nimbin]] get much worse where illegal drugs are sold openly, and is a common spot for police checks. ==Go next== * [[Mid-North Coast]] * [[New_England_(New_South_Wales)|New England]] * [[Gold Coast]] {{IsPartOf|New South Wales}} {{usableregion}} {{geo|-29|153.117|zoom=9}} jhlacjcafidjn6mn060s84usbuxe5mn 0 26510 5288857 5288513 2026-06-06T13:35:08Z Globetrotter30 2363356 /* History */ added 5288857 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Dudipat WV Panorama.jpg}} The Islamic Republic of '''Pakistan''' ([[Urdu]]: پاکستان ''Pākistān'') is a country at the crossroads of [[Western Asia|Western]], [[Central Asia|Central]], [[South Asia|South]] and [[East Asia]]. Conceived as a separate homeland for [[Islam|Muslims]] in South Asia, the country's tourism industry had its heyday during the 1960s thanks to the [[Istanbul to New Delhi overland|Hippie Trail]]. Unfortunately, the country has been in a state of flux since the 1970s, with many countries declaring it unsafe to visit. Despite this, Pakistan continues to attract tourists due to its unique, diverse cultures and landscapes. The history buff can rejoice at the vast number of ruins from ancient civilisations, such as Mohenjo-daro, Harappa and Taxila; the architecture lover can feast their eyes at Mughal-era architecture; and the adventurous traveller can try their luck at scaling the vast number of mountain peaks, including [[K2]]. ==Regions== Pakistan is a federal republic consisting of four provinces: Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The government of Pakistan also exercises ''de facto'' jurisdiction over two parts of the disputed [[Kashmir]] region: Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan (formerly Northern Areas). {{Regionlist | regionmap=Pakistan map.png | regionmaptext=Map of Pakistan | regionmapsize=450px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | region1name=[[Gilgit-Baltistan]] | region1color=#B383B3 | region1items= | region1description=Part of the disputed territory of Kashmir, it is home to some of the world's tallest mountains, brimming with dramatically fantastic landscapes and can easily compete with Nepal for trekking opportunities. | region2name=[[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]] | region2color=#69999F | region2items= | region2description=Primarily Pashtun, the region is very rugged and mountainous but the people are very hospitable. Northern Pakhtunkhwa is considered to be one of the most beautiful areas of the country. The region includes the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). | region3name=[[Azad Kashmir]] | region3color=#B5D29F | region3description=Part of the disputed territory of Kashmir, it is sometimes referred to as "Heaven on Earth" because of its scenic landscape. | region4name=[[Punjab (Pakistan)|Punjab]] | region4color=#71B37B | region4description=The most populous and agriculturally fertile region in the country, and home to many historical shrines and mosques. | region5name=[[Sindh]] | region5color=#4F93C0 | region5description=In the most industrialised region in the country, most visitors head for Karachi or the ancient ruins of Mohenjo-daro, but Sindh is also known for its distinct culture which is influenced by Sufism. | region6name=[[Balochistan]] | region6color=#D56D76 | region6description=The largest and most remote province, its lack of infrastructure and a low-level insurgency can make for rough travelling. It is, however, home to the world's second largest juniper forest, beautiful natural beaches, and regions which are famous for their delicious fruit. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#B383B3|title=[[Gilgit-Baltistan]]|wikidata=Q200697}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#69999F|title=[[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]|wikidata=Q183314,Q208270}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#B5D29F|title=[[Azad Kashmir]]|wikidata=Q200130}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71B37B|title=[[Punjab (Pakistan)|Punjab]]|wikidata=Q4478}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#4F93C0|title=[[Sindh]]|wikidata=Q37211}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#D56D76|title=[[Balochistan]]|wikidata=Q163239}} ==Cities== <!-- Cities lists are limited to 9 items. The capital is listed first, followed by the others in alphabetical order. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page. --> Nine of Pakistan's most notable cities follow. Other cities are listed in the article for their region. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Islamabad]]|wikidata=Q1362}} – the federal capital, a relatively new planned city with a much more "laid back" feel than the other cities * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Faisalabad]]|wikidata=Q173985}} – a major city in Punjab, famous for its textile industry * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karachi]]|wikidata=Q8660}} – the financial capital and the largest city of the country, it's an industrial port city and the provincial capital of Sindh * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lahore]]|wikidata=Q11739}} – city of the Mughals, it's a bustling and very historical city in the Punjab that shouldn't be missed * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Multan]]|wikidata=Q185453}} – the City of Saints, famous for blue pottery, ornamental glasswork, and Khussa – a type of shoes * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Muzaffarabad]]|wikidata=Q461307}} – capital of Azad Kashmir and a very picturesque city * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Peshawar]]|wikidata=Q1113311}} – capital city of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the gateway to [[Khyber Pass]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Quetta]]|wikidata=Q185458}} – capital city of Balochistan * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sialkot]]|wikidata=Q643883}} – the city of sports goods, famous for its exports industry, and one of the oldest cities in the region <br clear="right" /> ==Other destinations== [[File:Moenjodaro(a) by Usman Ghani.jpg|thumb|Mohenjo-daro]] * {{marker|name=[[Karakoram Highway]]|wikidata=Q217099}} &ndash; part of the historic [[Silk Road]] and the main artery running north to [[China]] * {{marker|name=[[Murree]]|wikidata=Q1020224}} &ndash; a popular Himalayan hill station one hours drive from Islamabad * {{marker|name=[[Khewra Salt Mine]]|wikidata=Q2504719}} &ndash; the second largest salt mine of the world. Nearly two hours drive from Islamabad towards south via the motorway * {{marker|name=[[Mohenjo-daro]]|wikidata=Q5725}} &ndash; archaeological site from the Indus Valley Civilisation, about 2000 BCE * {{marker|name=[[Taxila]]|wikidata=Q156093}} &ndash; archaeological site for the Gandharan period (1st millennium BCE and 1st CE) * {{marker|name=[[Changa Manga]]|wikidata=Q5071705}} &ndash; is a planted forest locating in 12,423 acres. * {{marker|name=[[Nankana Sahib]]|wikidata=Q2353077}} &ndash; birthplace of Guru Nanak, the founder of [[Sikhism]]. See also [[Sacred sites of the Indian sub-continent]] and the [[UNESCO_World_Heritage_List#Pakistan|UNESCO World Heritage listings for Pakistan]]. <br clear="right" /> ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationPakistan.png}} Pakistan is the world's 33rd largest country by size. With a population exceeding 207.2 million people, it is the fifth most populous country in the world. ===History=== {{see also|South Asian history}} <!-- Areas encompassing present-day Pakistan, was once hosting world's earliest sophisticated society of Indus Valley Civilisation.--> The history of Pakistan can be traced back to the earliest ancient human civilisations in South Asia. The earliest evidence of farming in South Asia is from 7,000 BCE in [[Mehrgarh]]. Mehrgarh in present-day Balochistan was a small farming village and centre of agriculture in South Asia during New Stone Age period which lasted until its abandonment around 2600 BCE due to climate change and was succeeded by [[Indus Valley Civilisation]], a civilization in the early stages of development growing along one of the major rivers of Asia, the Indus. By 2300 BCE, the IVC extended throughout much of what is modern-day Pakistan. It became one of the great civilisations of the ancient world along with Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. This Bronze Age civilisation with its remarkably sophisticated civil engineering and urban planning become most advanced civilisation of its time which had well-planned towns and well-laid roads, as recorded in its major city of [[Mohenjo-daro]] which today is an archaeological site of immense historical significance. The Indus Valley Civilization declined and disintegrated around 1900 BCE, possibly due to drought and geological disturbances. Most historians believe that the Vedic people were migrants who encountered this civilization in decline and perhaps hastened that decline. The Vedic people eventually occupied most of North India, laid the foundations of Hinduism and flourished in the ancient city of what is today known as [[Taxila]]. After the defeat of the first [[Persian Empire]], Achaemenid, which ruled much of modern Pakistan, Alexander the Great, the [[Ancient Greece|Hellenistic]] King of Macedon, invaded the region of Pakistan and conquered much of the Punjab region for his Macedonian empire. [[File:Shalimar Gardens, Lahore.jpg|thumb|Shalimar Gardens, a Mughal garden in Lahore]] Prior to the late 18th century, Pakistan was the main Islamic stronghold in the [[Mughal Empire]], which at its peak covered the great majority of the Indian subcontinent. The area that now makes up Pakistan kept its status as one of the main cultural and political hubs of South Asia for over 300 years. From the late 18th century until 1947, Pakistan was part of the British Empire, and one can still see the signs of Pakistan's colonial past in most places. The name ''Pakistan'' was used officially after the partition of (British) India into the two nation-states of India and Pakistan in 1947. However, the word ''Pakistan'' was first used by Choudhry Rahmat Ali back in 1933 in his declaration, ''Now or Never'' – calling for its separation from the Empire. Afterwards, British-ruled India was divided into the Islamic Republic of Pakistan (with two sections, West and East) and India. Later, East Pakistan seceded and became the separate nation of [[Bangladesh]], as a result of an extremely brutal war which also involved India. A dispute over [[Kashmir]] is still ongoing between India and Pakistan and has resulted in three wars and many skirmishes, acts of terrorism and an insurgency and counter-insurgency in [[Jammu and Kashmir|the part of Kashmir controlled by India and claimed by Pakistan]]. Right after its independence Pakistan was a peaceful, tolerant, progressive and prosperous country and a magnet for international travellers. By the late 1960s Pakistan's tourism industry was flourishing and the country became a hotspot for many young Western travellers and the hippie types. In the absence of political and ethnic violence and terrorism Pakistan showed the image of a cosmopolitan, orderly country – but by the 1980s Pakistan and its reputation had changed drastically, and today it is a very different place. Pakistan's population is multicultural: their ancestors include Arabs from after the Islamic expeditions, Persians from Bukhara and Samarkand, Turks from Central Asia – and the native Sindhus, whose ancestors converted to Islam. Ethnic groups such as Punjabis, Sindhis, Seraikis, Pashtuns, Mohajirs and Balochs all have different native languages, cultures and histories. ===Geography=== {{infobox|Kashmir dispute|India and Pakistan have a bitter and long-standing dispute over Kashmir; each government claims territory that is under the control of the other. Put short, the dispute originated when the Muslim-majority princely state ruled by Hindu aristocrats remained undecided during the partition of British India. Both countries have fought 4 major wars and more skirmishes since their independence. Wikivoyage, however, deals ''only'' with the current situation on the ground; our maps show and our text describes that situation without taking sides in the dispute. If you can go there with a Pakistani visa today then we treat it as being in Pakistan, and if you need an Indian visa, we treat it as being in India. This is the most important distinction for travellers. Most of the Pakistani-controlled part of Kashmir ([[Azad Kashmir]] and [[Gilgit-Baltistan]]) is safer than most of the rest of Pakistan, but travellers should check current conditions before visiting Kashmir and be wary of areas close to the Line of Control (the de facto border). Both governments consider these areas highly sensitive, keep large military forces in them, and restrict travel to them.}} Pakistan is strategically located astride the ancient trade routes of the [[Khyber Pass|Khyber]] and [[Bolan Pass|Bolan]] passes to [[Central Asia]]. Another pass, which now has the [[Karakoram Highway]] through it, leads to Western China. All these passes, and some ports in Pakistan, formed part of the ancient [[Silk Road]] which linked Asia and Europe. Located along the Arabian Sea, Pakistan is surrounded by [[Afghanistan]] to the northwest, [[Iran]] to the southwest, [[India]] to the east, and [[China]] to the northeast. Pakistan has its own unique character but also has many commonalities with neighbouring nations, especially [[Afghanistan]] and [[India]]. Pakistan is one of those few countries in the world that has every kind of geological structure. It has the sea, desert (Sindh & Punjab), green mountains (North West Province), dry mountains (Balochistan), mountains covered with snow, rivers, rich land to cultivate (Punjab & Sindh), water resources, waterfalls, and forests. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan contain the mountain ranges of the Himalayas, the Karakoram, and the Hindu Kush. Pakistan's highest point is K2, which, at 8,611 metres, is the second highest peak in the world. The Punjab province is a flat, alluvial plain whose rivers eventually join the Indus River and flow south to the Arabian Sea. Sindh lies between the Thar Desert and the Rann of Kutch to the east, and the Kirthar range to the west. The Balochistan Plateau is arid and surrounded by dry mountains. Pakistan experiences frequent earthquakes, occasionally severe, especially in the north and the west. ===Climate=== Mostly hot, dry desert; temperate in northwest; arctic in north. Flooding along the Indus after heavy rains (July and August). Fertile and sub humid heat in the Punjab region. The climate varies from tropical to temperate, with arid conditions in the coastal south. There is a monsoon season with frequent flooding due to heavy rainfall, and a dry season with significantly less rainfall or none at all. There are four distinct seasons: a cool, dry winter from December through February; a hot, dry spring from March through May; the summer rainy season, or southwest monsoon period, from June through September; and the retreating monsoon period of October and November. Rainfall varies greatly from year to year, and patterns of alternate flooding and drought are common. ===Politics=== [[File:Pakistan flag.jpg|thumb|The flag of Pakistan]] Pakistan is theoretically a democratic, parliamentary federal republic modelled on the British Westminster system, with Islam as the state religion. The President, indirectly elected, is the Head of State, but his position is primarily ceremonial. The Prime Minister and his cabinet run the government. The Parliament is bicameral. The National Assembly, the lower house, is directly elected by universal adult franchise, while the Senate is the upper house and indirectly elected. The National Assembly is the more powerful of the two, primarily because a majority in the National Assembly is required to form a government and pass budgets. Pakistan has a lot of political parties, and no party is able to secure a majority in the National Assembly, leading to unstable governments, short-lived political alliances and raucous politics. Pakistan has a strong and independent judiciary and a free press. However, political instability has resulted in (or some would say, has been partially caused by) a high degree of military control in Pakistan. Most of the prime ministers have been influenced by the chief of the Pakistani army in major decisions related to foreign policy, and there have been periods of outright military dictatorship in the past. Pakistan is also a ''Federal'' Republic, divided into provinces. Each of these has its own legislature, with a government run by a chief minister and a cabinet. Street demonstrations and political agitations occur, as they do in any democracy. There is also occasional low-level violence, but a visitor has a vanishingly small chance of getting caught in that. Terrorism is a bigger problem, though. It can occur anywhere, and some parts of the country are too dangerous to visit because of the great risks in those areas (see "Stay safe"). ===Culture=== {{Ramadan}} Pakistan, being home to numerous ethnic groups, is a culturally diverse nation that emphasises both local culture and traditions and the traditional Islamic values. The culture is greatly influenced by Northern India, Afghanistan and Iran. While Islam is the state religion, and adhered to by the overwhelming majority of Pakistanis, there are also Christian, Hindu and Sikh minorities. ===Women=== While legally women and men have equal rights under the law in Pakistan, the society is largely patriarchal and women are particularly mistreated in rural areas, where their access to education and employment remains limited. Nevertheless, women have played a prominent role in the development of the country in government, education, services, health as well as the military. Benazir Bhutto was the first female premier of Pakistan, and the first democratically elected female leader of a Muslim country, and women have served in many other prominent areas in politics. The Pakistan Air Force has also started to employ female fighter pilots. ===Holidays=== {|class="wikitable" style="font-size:100%;width:100%" ! Event||Date||About |- | '''Kashmir Solidarity Day''' |February 5 |Protest against Indian administration of Jammu and Kashmir. It has been observed each year in Pakistan as a day of protest against Indian control of part of Kashmir. The purpose of Kashmir Solidarity day as per Pakistani view, is to provide sympathetic and political support to the Kashmiri separatists who they believe are struggling for freedom from Indian rule. Nonviolent rallies and public marches are held across the country. |- | '''Pakistan Day''' |23 March |Commemorates the Lahore Resolution of 1940, and the adoption of the first constitution of Pakistan during the transition of the Dominion of Pakistan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on 23 March 1956 making Pakistan the world's first Islamic republic. It is a major holiday and significant day for Pakistanis, other being the Independence Day on 14 August. Republic Day parade by the armed forces is a common celebration for the event. The celebrations regarding the holiday include a full military and civilian parade in the capital, Islamabad. These are presided over by the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan and are held early in the morning. After the parade, the President confers national awards and medals at the Presidency. Wreaths are also laid at the mausoleums of Muhammad Iqbal and Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Many military and civilians parades and celebrations also held at national level across the country, mostly in major cities, and are worth to witness. |- | '''Labour Day''' |1 May |An annual holiday to celebrate the achievements of workers and to commemorate the social and economic achievements of workers. Nonviolent rallies and protest demonstration held in major cities. |- | '''Independence Day''' |14 August |biggest National holiday to commemorate independence from the British Raj, forming the new nation of Pakistan. Usual celebratory events this day include flag-raising ceremonies, parades, cultural events, and the playing of patriotic songs. As the month of August begins, special stalls and shops are set up across the country for the sale of national flags, buntings, banners and posters, pictures of national heroes, and other celebratory items. Vehicles, private buildings, homes, and streets are decorated with the national flag and buntings. Streets and houses are decorated with candles, oil lamps and pennants, national flag as well as firework shows occur as a part of celebration. A change of guard takes place at national monuments. |- | '''Iqbal Day''' |9 November | Birthday of national poet Muhammad Iqbal. |- | '''Birthday of Quaid-e-Azam''' |25 December | birthday of the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. |- | '''Ashura''' |Muharram 9 and 10 |Marks the end of the Shia mourning for the martyred Imam Hussein ibn Ali. Primarily Shia'a people gather across the country to mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. Seminars, rallies, mourning processions (Matmi Jaloos), Majalis, etc. are organized on this day. |- | '''Eid-ul-Fitr''' |Shawwal 1 |the largest celebration of the year, celebrated by all Muslims after the holy and fasting month of Ramadan to mark the end of Ramadan, starting on the first day of the month of Shawwal. Food is the highlight and if you're lucky you'll be invited into a private home to party and feast. Businesses close for at least a couple of days if not a week. (The official holidays are theoretically two days: the first and second day of the month of Shawwal. Anyhow, practically it includes the 30th day of Ramadan and may include the third day of Shawwal if it touches the weekend. Therefore, usually all offices are closed for 3 to 7 days.) |- | '''Eid-ul-Adha''' |10 Zilhajj | the festival of sacrifice, commemorates the Prophet Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son. Animals are slaughtered and meat or food is distributed among the poor. Families join together for large feasts and parties. |- | '''Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi''' |Rabi`-ul-Awwal 12 |Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad. |- |} ===Visitor information === * [https://tourism.gov.pk Pakistan Tourism]{{Cbignore}} website ==Talk== [[image:Pakistan ethnic map.svg |thumb |right |300px | Languages and ethnic groups of Pakistan]] {{Seealso|Urdu phrasebook}} At the federal level, '''[[Urdu phrasebook|Urdu]]''' and '''English''' are the official languages of Pakistan. Urdu serves as the ''lingua franca'' of Pakistan. It is very similar to [[Hindi phrasebook|Hindi]], but is written in the Arabic script, and incorporates more loan words from Arabic and Persian than Hindi. '''[[Punjabi phrasebook|Punjabi]]''' is the native language of roughly 37% of the population. Unlike in India, Punjabi is written using the Shahmukhi alphabet, another variant of the Arabic script, in Pakistan. Other languages spoken throughout the country include [[Pashto phrasebook|Pashto]], [[Sindhi phrasebook|Sindhi]], [[Saraiki phrasebook|Saraiki]], [[Balochi phrasebook|Balochi]], [[Pothohari phrasebook|Pothohari]], [[Hindko phrasebook|Hindko]], [[Brahui]], [[Khowar phrasebook|Khowar]], [[Shina phrasebook|Shina]], [[Burushaski phrasebook|Burushaski]] and [[Wakhi phrasebook|Wakhi]]. Fluency in English varies vastly depending on education levels, occupation, age and region. English is widely spoken among affluent sectors of the population in major cities and around most tourist places, as well as in most police stations and government offices. ==Get in== ===Visas=== {{VisaRestriction|Entry '''will be refused''' to citizens of [[Israel]].|lastedit=2012-12-08 }} [[File:Visa policy of Pakistan.svg|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Pakistan, with countries in lawn green having business visa on arrival; countries in turquoise having business or group tourist visa on arrival; countries in grey have been denied entry.]] The [https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/ e-visa system]{{Dead link|date=March 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is opened for citizens of 191 countries. It is unclear whether this is for airports only or includes land borders. Citizens of 24 "Tourist Friendly Countries" (TFC) are eligible for one month visas on arrival if they travel through a designated/authorised tour operator who will assume responsibility for them while in the country. Any extensions of this type of visa must also be done through the tour operator. They include: [[Austria]], [[Belgium]], [[Canada]], [[China]], [[Denmark]], [[Finland]], [[France]], [[Germany]], [[Greece]], [[Iceland]], [[Italy]], [[Japan]], [[South Korea]], [[Luxembourg]], [[Malaysia]], [[Netherlands]], [[Norway]], [[Portugal]], [[Singapore]], [[Spain]], [[Sweden]], [[Thailand]], [[United Kingdom]] and [[United States of America|United States]]. Nationals of most other countries, and those not wanting to travel with a tour operator and group, need to apply in advance for a visa, which are usually issued for 30–90 days depending on nationality and where you apply. Double-entries are sometimes given, but be clear and persistent that you need this when applying. Visas for Pakistan are usually easier to obtain in your home country as the missions around the world have been given more authority to issue visas without checking with Islamabad, which should help in getting applications turned around quicker. A handful of countries are issued visas on arrival: [[Iceland]] and [[Maldives]] for 3 months, [[Hong Kong]], [[Nepal]] and [[Samoa]] for 1 month, while [[Tonga]] and [[Trinidad and Tobago]] nationals can stay for an unlimited amount of time. Citizens of some countries can obtain '''business visas''' on arrival at major airports (Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta or Karachi) if their local host company either obtain an approval from the immigration authorities or arrange an invitation letter duly recommended by the concerned trade organizations in Pakistan. A recommendation letter issued by the Chamber of Commerce & Industry is also acceptable. '''People of Pakistani origin''' living overseas are granted 5 year multiple entry visas (along with their spouses), valid for single stays of up to 1 year. Visas aren't required at all if they are holding a Pakistan Origin Card (POC) or a National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP). [[File:Wagah border ceremony3.jpg|thumb|Border ceremony at the border with India in Wagah]] '''Nationals of [[Israel]] are not allowed entry''' as Israel is not recognised as a nation by Pakistan, but there is no restriction on Jews holding passports from other nations. Despite much on-line information to the contrary, Israeli stamps and visas would usually pose no problems for entry into Pakistan, though you may be subject to more stringent questioning by immigration officers. And while under normal circumstances visas can not be obtained by Israeli passport holders, there have been exceptions in which nationals of Israel have been admitted to Pakistan after obtaining an NOC from the Ministry of Interior in Islamabad beforehand, which they then submitted along with an application for a Pakistani visa. Nationals of Afghanistan are refused entry if their passports or tickets show evidence of transit or boarding in India. The Pakistan Consulate in [[Istanbul]] does not issue visas unless you are a resident of [[Turkey]], although it may be possible in [[Ankara]]. The consulate in [[Zahedan]] in [[Iran]] no longer issues visas, head for the embassy in [[Tehran]]. As of January 2018, applications for tourist visas in Delhi are refused to everyone, regardless of the nationality. As of May 2019, the Embassy of Pakistan in Bishkek will sometimes grant visas to non-Kyrgyz citizens. The paperwork is extensive but turnaround is fast, 2–3 days in practice. ==== Indian citizens ==== {{VisaRestriction|Visa services to Indian citizens are suspended from 24 April 2025.|lastedit=2025-04-25}} <!-- A Pakistani visa will not be granted to an Indian national unless the Ministry of Interior in Islamabad approves. The approval process is notoriously lengthy and highly selective; many endure months or even years of waiting, only to face potential disappointment. The process depends a lot on references. --> On return to India, Indian citizens who have visited Pakistan '''may face questioning''' by authorities, over their links. Contrary to reports, Indian citizens are '''not''' granted Pakistani tourist visas. ===By plane=== [[File:PIA rendezvous-edit.jpg|thumb|A Pakistan International Airlines Boeing 737 at Skardu Airport]] [[Karachi]], [[Lahore]], and [[Islamabad]] are the main gateways to Pakistan by air. Nine other international airports are in [[Quetta]], [[Peshawar]], [[Sialkot]], [[Multan]], [[Faisalabad]], [[Gawadar]], [[Rahim Yar Khan]], [[Dera Ghazi Khan]] and [[Skardu]]. Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad all served by many international airliners and have direct connections from Europe, North America, Middle East and Southeast Asia. Pakistan's national carrier Pakistan International Airlines provides good connectivity within the country as well to major hubs around the world. PIA was once one of the most reputable airlines in the world, but is now suffering due to bad governance. It is still the largest airline of the country and serves the most destinations, both local and international. PIA has direct connections with Abu Dhabi, Baku, Bahrain, Beijing, Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, Jeddah, Kuwait, Kuala Lumpur, Riyadh. Sharjah, Medina, Muscat, Riyadh, and Toronto-Pearson. British Airways has a direct service from London to Islamabad and Lahore, while Virgin Atlantic has services from London and Manchester to Islamabad and from London to Lahore. Most flights and airlines originate from Gulf countries, where most of the overseas Pakistan work, and those flights are often reasonably priced. Other than flag carrier PIA, private airlines such as Airblue and Serene Air also operate flights from numerous Gulf destinations. ===By train=== <!-- From India: The Samjhauta Express runs on Tuesdays and Fridays between Delhi and Lahore via the Attari/Wagah border crossing. This is the most common option chosen by travellers, however, after terrorist attacks on the train, which caused many casualties and strained relationships between the two neighbours, it is strongly advised that you take taxis or buses to and from the border instead. The Thar Express runs from Bhagat ki Kothi in the Indian state of Rajasthan to Karachi in Pakistan's Sindh province. This route restarted in February 2006 after 40 years out of service, but is not open to foreign tourists. --> Pakistan has train links with Iran, though none of these trains are the quickest and most practical way to enter Pakistan. Should speed be a priority it is better to take the bus, or if you are really in a hurry, to fly, however the trains are sights in their own right. '''From [[Iran]]''': There is only one link, from [[Zahedan]] to [[Quetta]]. This link was suspended around 2014 for passengers. Local media reported that reinstatement was due as of September 2018, but this did not prove to be the case and while there is freight traffic on the line, there has been no resumption of passenger service as of January 2025 according to local information. Sandstorms frequently block the tracks and cause severe delays. ===By car=== From ancient times people have been travelling through Pakistan using the [[Grand Trunk Road]] and the [[Silk Road]] that run through Pakistan and into the [[South Asia|Indian subcontinent]]. It's a rewarding but time consuming way to see this part of the world. New highways have been developed and the country is due for an expansion in its highway network. A world-class motorway connects the cities of [[Peshawar]], [[Islamabad]], [[Lahore]], [[Multan]] and [[Faisalabad]] but drivers' behaviour is still poor and capriciously policed. '''From [[China]]:''' Pakistan is connected to [[China]] by the [[Karakoram Highway]], a modern feat of engineering that traverses a remarkably scenic route through the Karakoram and Himalayan mountains. Plans are in place for this highway to be expanded from its current width of 10 m to 30 m as a result of the increase in trade traffic due to Gwader port opening. '''From [[Afghanistan]]:''' * The [[Khyber Pass]] connects [[Peshawar]] to [[Jalalabad]] and [[Kabul]]. This was considered closed to foreign tourists for many years, but since 2017 it is theoretically open and there have been some reports of successful crossings from Afghanistan to Pakistan and at least one in the other direction (in 2022). An armed escort and a permit to travel through the tribal regions are both required between [[Peshawar]] and the border (or vice versa). Onward travel (on the Afghanistan side) from the border to [[Kabul]] is of extremely questionable and oft-varying safety, check the current situation locally. * The [[Bolan Pass]] connects [[Quetta]] to [[Kandahar]] and is considered '''very dangerous'''. This route is '''not''' open to foreign tourists, and is only open to locals and aid workers. ===By bus=== <!-- From India: There is an international bus service running from Delhi to Lahore, which includes meals for ₹2400. You cannot buy the ticket on the spot, rather you will need to show up a few days before at Delhi Gate with photocopies of your Pakistani and Indian visas. The bus leaves at 06:00 but you will need to be at Delhi Gate at 04:00 to check in. Tourists report that is just as fast, much more flexible, and much cheaper to take the journey by stringing together local transport and crossing the border on foot. --> '''From China''': You can take a bus from [[Kashgar]] over the [[Karakoram Highway]] to Pakistan. '''From Iran''': * '''Zahedan-Quetta route:''' Via the [[Mijva]] border in [[Iran]] which is half an hours drive from [[Zahedan]]. The Pakistani border town is called [[Taftan]] and has facilities of immigration, customs, hotels, etc. Paramilitary police are likely to make foreigners ride in the bed of one of their pickups from Taftan to Quetta rather than taking a bus at this time. There is an overnight stop in Dalbandin. * '''Rimdan-Gwadar route:''' Since 2022 there have been a few sporadic reports of travellers without vehicles managing to cross via the Gabd-Kumb border crossing, which so far as of early 2025 does not result in the same time-consuming escort process as the Taftan crossing. A bus to Karachi departs from the border, which is closed on Fridays. Travellers with vehicles cannot cross here. In theory there is a third crossing that could be used on the Pishin-Mand route for those without transport, but no reports of attempts to do so have yet been received. Big companies that operate cross‑border bus services are: [https://natco.gov.pk/ NATCO], [https://tourism.gov.pk/ PTDC]{{Dead link|date=March 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://faisalmoverz.com.pk/ Faisal Movers] ==Get around== Getting around Pakistan has become ''much'' easier with the completion of some motorways, and an increase in private airlines. Whilst the cities are well covered, roads in rural areas are not, with many minor roads missing - Google Maps in particular has a worrying habit of marking dried up river beds as minor roads, so if you're exploring out in the sticks, it's a good idea to use Google Earth to double check your route. ===Maps=== If you prefer a paper map, look in your home country for one made by Gizi Map. ===By plane=== [[File:Pakistan Airports & Seaports.png|thumbnail|Airports ]] [http://www.piac.com.pk '''Pakistan International Airlines'''] (PIA) serves numerous domestic destinations and is the only airline to serve the three airports in the north of interest to trekkers or climbers: [[Chitral]], [[Gilgit]], and [[Skardu]]. There are usually two flights from Islamabad to these cities daily, but they are often cancelled due to bad weather, and often over-booked &mdash; show up early to guarantee a seat. Other domestic carriers include '''[https://www.sereneair.com SereneAir]''' and '''[http://www.airblue.com Airblue]'''. ===By train=== [[File:Pakistan Railways Network Map.png|thumb|Pakistan Railways Network Map]] [https://www.pakrailways.gov.pk/home '''Pakistan Railways'''] provides passenger rail service. The stations tend not to have their timetables in English, but sales agents can usually explain everything to you. There are several different classes of fares depending on amenities. Air-Conditioned Sleeper class is the most expensive class, where the fares are almost at par with airfares. Bedding is included with the fare and this air-conditioned coach is present only on popular routes between Karachi to Lahore. The sleeper berths are extremely wide and spacious and the coaches are carpeted. ===By bus=== [[File:Pakistan Nationalhighways.PNG|thumbnail|Highway network]] A large portion of travel between cities in Pakistan is carried out by bus. Travel by bus is often the cheapest and most convenient alternative. The Daewoo company runs a regular bus service between several major cities, with air-conditioned buses and seats booked one day ahead. While rather inexpensive, they are still almost five times as expensive as the cheap and uncomplicated rides offered by minibuses or larger buses between the major bus stations of the cities. On the regular bus services, fares are often (though not always) paid directly on the bus, there is no air-conditioning, and sometimes very little knee space, but you get where you are going all the same. You'll also probably benefit from kind interest and friendly conversation on many rides. Buses leave almost incessantly from the major bus stations for all the major cities, and many smaller locations, so booking ahead is neither possible nor necessary on the simpler buses. When travelling between major cities, smaller buses are to be preferred over the larger ones, as the larger ones tend to pick up passengers along the way and, therefore, travel more slowly. The situation is similar for local transport. While the organization of local transport may look a little different between cities, there is usually an active bus service running throughout each city, with varying levels of government control. You can purchase bus tickets online with the [https://www.bookkaru.com/ Bookkaru] booking engine. Major bus companies operating intercity buses in Pakistan are [https://faisalmoversinfo.com/ Faisal Movers], [http://www.skyways.pk/ Skyways]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} & [http://www.niaziexpress.com.pk/ Niazi Express]{{Dead link|date=March 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. === By car === In Pakistan, traffic is left-hand drive and the traffic culture is very different from the West. The 350 km of highway between Islamabad and Lahore is in good condition, but most of the road network is in poor condition compared to roads in the West. Traffic can be dangerous and chaotic. Many drivers do not have a driving licence or insurance. Avoid driving after dark. ==See== [[File:Dudiptsar_Lake.jpg|thumb|Dudiptsar Lake, Kaghan Valley, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan]] [[File:Rakaposhi_Nagar.jpg|thumb|Rakaposhi Nagar]] [[File:KachuraUpper1075.JPG|thumb|Kachura Lake]] Pakistan's attractions range from the ruins of civilisations such as Mohenjo-daro, Harappa and Taxila, to the Himalayan hill stations, which attract visitors not only from across the country but also from all over the world who are interested in winter sports and natural beauty. Pakistan is home to several mountain peaks over 7,000 m, especially K2 and is a hotspot for adventurers and mountaineers. Along with natural beauty, the northern part of the country also offer ancient architecture such as old fortresses. The Hunza and Chitral valley are home to small pre-Islamic Animist Kalasha communities claiming descent from Alexander the Great, while the romance of the historic Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province is timeless and legendary. Punjab province has the site of Alexander's battle on the Jhelum River and the historic city of Lahore. Lahore is Pakistan's cultural capital, with many examples of Mughal architecture such as Badshahi Masjid, Shalimar Gardens, the Tomb of Jahangir and the Lahore Fort. The cultural and physical diversity of Pakistan should have advanced it into a tourist hot spot for foreigners, but numbers have diminished in this century due to security fears and low standards of service and cleanliness. Post-independence Pakistan retained its heritage by constructing various sites to commemorate its independence by blending various styles and influences from the past. ===World Heritage Sites=== Pakistan has six major cultural sites that are categorised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include the archaeological ruins of the Indus Valley Civilization at [[Moenjodaro]], the 1st century Buddhist Ruins at Takht-i-Bahi and neighbouring city remains at Sahr-i-Bahlol, the ruins of [[Taxila]] from the Gandhara Civilization, the Lahore Fort and Shalimar Gardens in [[Lahore]], the monuments of the ancient city of Thatta and the ancient fort of Rohtas. ===Natural attractions === Pakistan is a profound blend of landscapes varying from plains to deserts, forests, hills, and plateaus ranging from the coastal areas of the Arabian Sea in the south to the mountains of the Karakoram range in the north. Pakistan's northern areas especially [[Gilgit-Baltistan]] and [[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa|Northern side of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]] are full of natural beauty and include parts of the Hindu Kush, the Karakoram Range, and the Himalayas. This area has some of the world's highest mountain includes such famous peaks as K2 (Mount Godwin Austen, at 8,611 m, the second highest mountain in the world). Five peaks over 8,000 m, many over 7,000 m, and the largest glaciers outside the polar region. More than one-half of the summits are over 4,500 m, and more than fifty peaks reach above 6,500 mPakistan's administered Azad Kashmir is rich in natural beauty. Its snow-covered peaks, forests, rivers, streams, valleys, velvet green plateaus and climate varying from Arctic to tropical, join together to make it an excellent tourist attraction. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is known as the tourist hotspot for adventurers and explorers. The province has a varied landscape ranging from rugged mountains, valleys, hills and dense agricultural farms. Pakistan has some 29 national parks. === Cultural and historical attractions=== Popular monuments in Pakistan are: *Pakistan Monument *Minar-e-Pakistan *Quaid-e-Azam Residency *Tomb of Muhammad Iqbal *Mazar-e-Quaid ===Museums and galleries=== In Pakistan, there are museums from archaeological and historical to biographical, from heritage to military, from natural history to transport – nearly every big city has a museum worth visiting. The highest concentrations of these museums are found in the largest cities, but none compare to Lahore, home to Lahore Museum. Karachi also has an array of some good museums, including the National Museum of Pakistan, State Bank of Pakistan Museum & Art Gallery, MagnifiScience Centre, PAF Museum and Pakistan Maritime Museum. For those looking out for a transport museum, Pakistan Railways Heritage Museum in Islamabad is a major attraction. ==Do== [[File:Jeeps Northern Pakistan.jpg|thumb|Driving through Northern Pakistan]] Pakistan is a world class destination for trekking and hiking. Gilgit-Baltistan is a "mountain paradise" for mountaineers, trekkers, and tourists. The region has some of the world's highest mountains, including five peaks over 8,000 m, many over 7,000 m, and the largest glaciers outside the polar region. Horse riding is also very affordable. Cycling opportunities abound. For water-based activities fans, Karachi is the only place in the country to head for. From snorkeling, scuba diving, boating, fishing, and even cruise dining. You can also shop to your heart's content, in massive range of markets and bazaars without worrying about your budget, as a survey found Karachi as the world's most cheapest city. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Pakistani rupee | currencyCode=Rs&nbsp; | date=January 2026 | USD=280 | EUR=330 | GBP=380 | INR=310 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/pkr-pakistani-rupee XE.com]}} The national currency of Pakistan is the '''Pakistani rupee''', denoted as '''Rs''' (ISO code '''PKR'''). The rupee is subdivided into 100 paise (singular: paisa). "5 rupees 75 paise" would normally be written as Rs&nbsp;"5.75". It is always good to have a number of small bills on hand, as merchants and drivers sometimes have no change. A useful technique is to keep small denomination notes (Rs 10-100) in your wallet or in a pocket, and to keep larger denomination notes (Rs 500-5,000) separate. Then, it will not be obvious how much money you have. Many small merchants will claim that they don't have change for a Rs 500 or 1,000 note. This is often a lie so that they are not stuck with a large note. It is best not to buy unless you have exact change. Coins are issued in denominations of Rs 1, 2, 5 and 10. Coins are useful for buying tea, for beggars, and for giving exact change for bus fare or auto-rickshaw. Banknotes come in denominations of Rs&nbsp;10 (green), 20 (orange green), 50 (purple), 100 (red), 500 (deep green), 1,000 (dark blue), and 5,000 (mustard). There is also a Rs 75 banknote, but is treated more as a collector's item than as circulating currency. '''ATMs''' exist in most areas but only very few accept international cards such as American Express, MasterCard and Visa. Look out for '''Standard Chartered Bank''' as this is one of the rare exceptions. (December 2022) ===Changing money=== It's usually best to get your foreign currency converted to rupees before you make purchases (of course that's only applicable if you're planning to buy with cash not a credit card). A number of licensed currency exchange companies operate, and a passport might be required as an identification document but this requirement is often ignored. Currency exchange shops can easily found in major shopping areas. Be sure to say the amount you wish to exchange and ask for the 'best quote' as rates displayed on the board are often negotiable, especially for larger amounts. Most large department stores and souvenir shops, and all upmarket restaurants and hotels accept major credit cards such as American Express, MasterCard and Visa cards. Some small shops will want to pass on their 2-3% merchant charge to you. In many cities and towns, credit cards are accepted at retail chain stores and other restaurants and stores. Small businesses and family-run stores almost never accept credit cards, so it is useful to keep a moderate amount of cash on hand. Rates for exchanging rupees overseas are often poor, although places with significant Pakistani populations (e.g. Dubai) can give decent rates. Try to get rid of any spare rupees before you leave the country. Most ATMs will dispense up to 50,000 in each transaction. HBL, MCB Bank, National Bank of Pakistan and United Bank, all are the biggest bank in Pakistan and have the most ATMs. They accept most international cards at a nominal charge. International banks like Standard Chartered have a significant presence in major Pakistan cities. It is always worthwhile to have bank cards or credit cards from at least two different providers to ensure that you have a backup available in case one card is suspended by your bank or simply does not work work at a particular ATM. ===Counting=== Pakistanis commonly use '''lakh''' and '''crore''' for 100,000 and 10,000,000 respectively. Though these terms come from Sanskrit, they have been adopted so deeply into Pakistani English that most people are not aware that they are not standard in other English dialects. You may also find non-standard, although standard in Pakistan, placement of commas while writing numerals. One crore rupees would be written as 1,00,00,000, so first time you place a comma after three numerals, then after every two numerals. This format may puzzle you till you start thinking in terms of lakhs and crores, after which it will seem natural. {| class="wikitable" |- ! Indic Number !! Non-Indic Number !! English Format !! Pakistani Format |- | 100 || 100 || Hundred || Sau |- | 1000 || 1000 || Thousand || Hazaar |- | 1,00,000 || 100,000 || Hundred Thousand || One Lakh |- | 10,00,000 || 1,000,000 || Million || Ten Lakh |- | 1,00,00,000 || 10,000,000 || Ten Million || One Crore |} ===Shopping=== [[File:Traditional Bazar (Market) of Dargai Malakand KPK Pakistan.jpg|thumb|Traditional market]] Pakistan, and particularly Karachi, features in surveys as one of the cheapest places in the world to shop. It has a wide range of markets and bazaars and things to buy without worrying about blowing your budget: *'''Textiles and Garments''' such as garments, bed linen, shirts, T-shirts are cheaply available in shops. Many world renowned brands such as Adidas, Levis, Slazenger, HangTen, Wal-Mart etc. get their products prepared from [[Faisalabad]] which has one of the largest textile industries in the world. You can get a pair of Levis jeans (or many other good brand) at reasonable prices ranging between Rs&nbsp;1,400-2,500. * '''Leather goods''', such as shoes, jackets and bags are also a speciality of Pakistan. Go to Sputnik, Shoe Planet, Servis, Metro, Gap shoes, Lotus, Step-in, Jaybees for best quality shoes at low prices. *'''Sports goods''' such as cricket bats, balls, kits, footballs, sports wear and almost anything related to sports you can imagine. You will not find such high quality equipment at such low cost anywhere else. [[Sialkot]] produces 90% of the world’s sports goods and is the largest provider of sports equipment to FIFA for the World cup. *'''Musical instruments''' are produced economically and to high quality in Pakistan. Acoustic guitars cost as little as Rs&nbsp;2,000. *'''Surgical instruments''' *'''Computer accessories''' *'''Chinese goods''' especially electronics & cameras which are re-exported from Pakistan and are cheaper than other parts of the world. *'''Carpets and rugs''' Pakistan has a long [[Carpets#Indian_subcontinent|history]] of carpet production and makes many today for both domestic and export markets. *'''Wood carvings''' such as decorative wooden plates, bowls, artwork, furniture and miscellaneous items. *'''Jewellery''' such as necklaces, bracelets etc. are very inexpensive in Pakistan. *'''Gems and handicrafts''': (Ajrak from [[Sindh]], Blue pottery from [[Multan]], pottery from [[Karachi]]), '''glassware, brassware, marble products, crystal works and antiques'''. Also '''pashmina, rugs, wool-shawls''' or '''wraps''', which can cost anywhere between US$15 and US$700. Remember to [[haggle]]. *'''Books''' There are Urdu Bazars in every big city in Pakistan. *'''Souvenirs''' such as decorative items from Sea Shells. *'''Food stuffs''' local products, including Swat honey, biscuits and locally made chocolate are of good quality and inexpensive. Go to shops such as Dmart, Makro, Metro, Hyperstar. *'''Home accessories''' *'''Kitchen Utensils''' and '''Cutlery''' *'''Art''' lovers should get in touch with a local to take them around. There are many art galleries in [[Karachi]], [[Lahore]], [[Islamabad]] that are worth visiting and each will offer a completely different range of artwork, style and pricing. All should be visited if you are an art lover. In general shops are open 09:00-23:00 in the large cities. They open and close for business earlier in the smaller towns and rural areas. ===Bargaining=== In Pakistan, you are '''''expected'' to negotiate the price''' with street hawkers but not in department stores. If not, you risk overpaying many times, which can be okay if you think that it is cheaper than at home. In most of the big cities, retail chain stores are popping up where the shopping experience is essentially identical to similar stores in the West. Although you will pay a little more at these stores, you can be confident that what you are getting is not a cheap knockoff. The harder you [[bargaining|bargain]], the more you save money. A few tries later, you will realise that it is fun. Often, the more time you spend in a store, the better deals you will get. It is worth spending time getting to know the owner, asking questions, and getting him to show you other products (if you are interested). Once the owner feels that he is making a sufficient profit from you, he will often give you additional goods at a rate close to his cost, rather than the common "foreigner rate". You will get better prices and service by buying many items in one store than by bargaining in multiple stores individually. If you see local people buying in a store, probably. you can get the real Pakistani prices. Ask someone around you quietly, "How much would you pay for this?" ===Costs=== Most visitors will find Pakistan quite cheap, although it is noticeably more expensive than neighbouring Afghanistan. Karachi is also generally more expensive than the rest of the country. At the other end of the spectrum, luxury hotels and air fares are comparatively affordable, with even the fanciest 5-star hotels costing less than Rs&nbsp;20,000/night. '''Tipping''' is considered a good practice in Pakistan. Hotel porters, taxi drivers, delivery men will appreciate a small tip if you have been provided with exemplary service. ==Eat== [[File:Chapli Kebab.jpg|thumb|Chapli Kababs is one of the popular barbecue meals in Pakistan]] [[File:Chicken Tikka.jpg|thumb|Chicken Tikka is a popular dish]] {{seealso|Middle Eastern cuisine|South Asian cuisine}} Pakistani cuisine is a refined blend of various regional cooking traditions of South Asia. Pakistani cuisine is known for its richness, having aromatic and sometimes spicy flavors, and some dishes often contain liberal amounts of oil which contributes to a richer, fuller mouthfeel and flavour. Food in Pakistan is a blend of Mughal, Afghan, Central Asian and Persian influences. There is a good chance that you'd have tasted it in your country, as Indian food and Pakistan food often served together in a restaurant. Cuisine in Pakistan varies greatly from region to region. The "Pakistani food" served by many so-called Pakistani or Indian restaurants in the Western hemisphere is inspired by specifically Mughlai cuisine, a style developed by the royal kitchens of the historical Mughal Empire, and the regional cuisine of the Punjab, although degree of authenticity in relation to actual Mughlai or Punjabi cooking is sometimes variable at best and dubious at worst. Within Pakistan, cuisine varies greatly from region to region, reflecting the country's ethnic and cultural diversity. Food from the eastern provinces of Punjab and Sindh and Mughlai cuisine are similar to the cuisines of Northern India and can be highly seasoned and spicy with vegetarian options, which is characteristic of the flavours of the South Asian region. Food in other parts of Pakistan, particularly Balochistan, Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas, involves the use of mild aromatic spices with more meat and more oil, similar to the cuisines of neighbouring Afghanistan, Iran, and Central Asia. Due to Muslim beliefs, pork is a banned item in Pakistan and is neither consumed nor sold. Pakistani main course foods which mostly consist of curry dishes are eaten with either flatbread – also called wheat bread – or rice. Salad is generally taken as a side dish with the main course, rather than as an appetizer beforehand. Assorted fresh fruit or sometimes desserts are consumed at the end of a meal. Meat plays a much more dominant role in Pakistani food compared to other South Asian cuisines. According to a 2003 report, an average Pakistani consumed three times more meat than an average Indian. Of all the meats, the most popular are goat or mutton, beef and chicken, particularly for kebab dishes or the classic beef shank dish nihari. Seafood is generally not consumed in large amounts. Food tends range from mild to spicy depending on where you are and who your cook is. So state your preference before beginning to eat. In general, most of the food that you find in the high end hotels is also available in the markets (but European-style food is generally reserved for the former). Pakistani food has a well-deserved reputation for being hot, owing to the Pakistani penchant for the liberal use of a variety of spices, and potent fresh green chilis or red chili powder that will bring tears to the eyes of the uninitiated. The degree of spiciness varies widely throughout the country: Punjab food is famously fiery, while Northern Areas cuisine is quite mild in taste. To enjoy the local food, start slowly. Don't try everything at once. After a few weeks, you can get accustomed to spicy food. If you would like to order your dish not spicy, simply say so. Most visitors are tempted to try at least some of the spicy concoctions, and most discover that the sting is worth the trouble. ===Cuisine=== Cuisine in Pakistan varies greatly from region to region. Culinary art in Pakistan comprises a mix of Iranian, Afghan, Indian, and Central Asian influences that reflect the country's history as well as the variation of cooking practices from across the country. Urban centres of the country offer an amalgamation of recipes from all parts of the country, while food with specific local ingredients and tastes is available in rural areas and villages. Besides the main dishes of salan, with or without meat and cooked with vegetables or lentils, there are a number of provincial specialities such as karahi, biryani, and tikka, in various forms and flavours, eaten alongside a variety of breads such as naan, chapati, and roti. Pakistani cuisine is a blend of cooking traditions from different regions of the Indian subcontinent, originating from the royal kitchens of sixteenth-century Mughal emperors. It has similarities to North Indian cuisine, although Pakistan has a greater variety of meat dishes and tends to use oil as opposed to ghee. Pakistani cooking uses large quantities of spices, herbs and seasoning. Garlic, ginger, turmeric, red chilli and garam masala are used in most dishes, and home cooking regularly includes curry. Chapati, a thin flat bread made from wheat, is a staple food, served with curry, meat, vegetables and lentils. Rice is also common; it is served plain or fried with spices and is also used in sweet dishes. ===Varieties of bread=== Pakistan is wheat growing land, so you have Pakistani breads (known as roti), including chapatti (unleavened bread), paratha (pan-fried layered roti), naan (cooked in a clay tandoori oven), puri (deep-fried and puffed up bread), and many more. A typical meal consists of one or more gravy dishes along with rotis, to be eaten by breaking off a piece of roti, dipping it in the gravy and eating them together. Most of the Pakistani heartland survives on naan, roti, rice, and lentils (dal), which are prepared in several different ways and made spicy to taste. Served on the side, you will usually find spiced yogurt (raita) and either fresh chutney or a tiny piece of exceedingly pungent pickle (achar), a very acquired taste for most visitors – try mixing it with curry, not eating it plain. Pakistanis eat breads made of wheat flour as a staple part of their daily diet. Pakistan has a wide variety of breads, often prepared in a traditional clay oven called a tandoor. The tandoori style of cooking is common throughout rural and urban Pakistan and has strong roots in neighboring Iran and Afghanistan as well. [[File:Peshawari Roti, Pakistan.jpg|thumb|Peshwari naan freshly prepared in a tandoor in [[Karachi]]]] The types of flatbread (collectively referred to as Naan) are: * Naan - A soft and thick flat bread that often requires special clay ovens (tandoor) and cannot be properly made on home stoves. Typically leavened with yeast and mainly made with white flour. Some varieties like the Roghani and Peshwari may also be sprinkled with sesame seeds. Naans are seldom, if ever, made at home since they require tandoor based cooking and require prep work. Numerous varieties of plain as well as stuffed naans are available throughout Pakistan and each region or city can have their own specialty. Naan is a versatile bread and is eaten with almost anything. For instance, 'saada naan' or 'plain naan' are often served with Sri-Paya (Cow's head and totters) or Nihari (slow cooked beef stew) for breakfast in many parts of the country. It is recognized by its larger, white exterior. *Roti - These are extremely popular all over Pakistan. Tandoori rotis are baked in a clay oven called tandoor and are consumed with just about anything. In rural Pakistan, many houses have their own tandoors while the ones without use a communal one. In urban Pakistan, bread shops or "nanbai"/"tandoor" shops are fairly common and supply fresh, tandoor baked breads to household customers as well. A homemade bread that doesn't have as much flavor as naan. It is a cheap alternative that is ready in minutes. * Chapatti - A homemade bread, much thinner than naan and usually made out of unrefined flour, and which is ready in minutes. Most common bread made in urban homes where a tandoor is not available. Chapatis are cooked over a flat or slightly convex dark colored pan known as 'tava'. Chapatis are made of whole wheat flour and are thin and unleavened. Tortillas are probably the most common analogous to chapatis, though chapatis are slightly thick. A variant, known as 'romali roti' (lit: handkerchief bread) is very thin and very large in size. * Paratha - An extremely oily version of the ''roti''. Usually excellent if you're going out to eat, but beware of health concerns; often it is literally dripping with oil because it is meant to be part of a rich meal. Paratha is more declicious if you cook it in pure oil like "desi ghee". A flat, layered bread made with ghee and generally cooked on a 'tava'. However, a 'tandoor' based version is also common in rural areas. Parathas are very similar to pastry dough. Parathas most likely originated in the Punjab where a heavy breakfast of parathas with freshly churned butter and buttermilk was commonly used by the farmers to prepare themselves for the hard day of work ahead. However, parathas are now a common breakfast element across the country. Along with the plain layered version, many stuffed versions such as 'Aloo ka Paratha' (Potato Stuffed Parathas), 'Mooli ka Paratha' (Radish stuffed parathas) and 'Qeemah stuffed paratha' (Ground meat stuffed paratha) are popular. * Sheer Mal - This is a slightly sweetened, lightly oiled bread that has waffle-like squares punched in it. It is often considered the most desirable bread and is a delicacy to most people. Often paired with nihari. Another breakfast version of sheermal is very much like the Italian Panettone (albeit in a flat naan-like shape) with added dried fruits and candy. It is a festive bread prepared with milk ('sheer') and butter with added candied fruits. Sheermal is often a vital part of food served in marriages, along with taftan. It is often sweetened and is particularly enjoyed by the kids. * Taftan - Much like the 'sheer mal' but with a puffed-up ring around it. This is a leavened flour bread with saffron and small amount of cardamom powder baked in a tandoor. The Taftan made in Pakistan is slightly sweeter and richer than the one made in neighboring Iran. *Kulcha - This is a type of naan usually eaten with chickpeas and potatoes and mostly popular in urban centres of Punjab. *Roghani Naan - (lit. Buttered Naan) It is a preferred variety of Naan sprinkled with white sesame seeds and cooked with a small amount of oil. *Puri - This is a breakfast bread made of white flour and fried. Typically eaten with sweet semolina halwa and/or gravy (made out of chickpeas and potatoes). Puri is a fairly urban concept in Pakistan and puris are not part of rural cuisine anywhere in Pakistan. However, Halwa Puri has now become a favored weekend or holiday breakfast in urban Pakistan where it is sometimes sold in shift carts or in specialty breakfast shops. As you might have noticed, 'Naan' is usually used to pick up liquid and soft foods like shorba in curries and beans. Forks and knives not commonly used during meals in Pakistan (unless someone is eating rice or is dining out). Attempting to cut a naan with a knife may elicit some amusement around you. Watching others may help. There are too many shorbas, or sauces/soups, to enumerate. ===Vegetarian dishes=== Popular and commons veg dishes are: * Daal - Yellow (made of yellow/red lentils) or brown (slightly sour) lentil "soup". Usually not very spiced. Common to all economic classes. * X + ''ki sabzi'' - A vegetarian mixture with 'X' as the main ingredient. Other dishes include Aloo gobi, Baingan, Karela, Bhindi and Saag === Pulses/lentil dishes=== Various kinds of pulses, or legumes, make up an important part of the Pakistani dishes. While lentils (called daal), and chick peas (called channa) are popular ingredients in homestyle cooking, they are traditionally considered to be an inexpensive food sources. Because of this reason, they are typically not served to guests who are invited for dinner or during special occasions. Combining meat with lentils and pulses, whether in simple preparations or in elaborate dishes such as haleem, is also a distinctively Pakistani touch not commonly seen in neighbouring India where a substantial number of its population are vegetarians. * Haleem - Thick stew-like mix of tiny chunks of meat or chicken, lentils and wheat grains. ===Rice dishes=== [[File:Sindhi_Biryani.JPG|thumb|Sindhi Biryani: the most popular dish in [[Karachi]] ]] Pakistan is a major consumer of rice. Basmati is the most popular type of rice consumed in Pakistan. Rice dishes are very popular throughout Pakistan. The rice dishes are sometimes eaten mixed with other dishes. The most simple dish of Pakistani cuisine is Plain cooked rice (Chawal) eaten with Dal (Lentil). Khichdi is Plain cooked rice cooked with Dal. The Karhi chawal is Plain cooked rice eaten with Karhi. Biryani is a very popular dish in Pakistan, is cooked with pieces of beef, lamb, chicken, fish or shrimp. and has many varieties such as Lahori and Sindhi biryani. Tahiri, which is also a form of vegetarian biryani, is also popular. All of the main dishes (except those made with rice) are eaten alongside bread. To eat, a small fragment of bread is torn off with the right hand and used to scoop and hold small portions of the main dish. Pickles made out of mangoes, carrots, lemon, etc. are also commonly used to further spice up the food. Biryani smells more nice from the saffron and other seasonings added. In the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, feasts using mountains of spiced rice combined with pieces of slowly roasted lamb are often served for guests of honour. These kind of pulaos often contain dried fruit, nuts, and whole spices such as cloves, saffron and cardamom. Such rice dishes have their origins in Central Asia and the Middle East. Dishes made with rice include many varieties of pulao: *Murgh pulao - Chicken and stock added. Creates a brown rice. *Yakhni pulao - Meat and stock added. Creates a brown rice. *Matar pulao - Pulao made with peas. *Maash pulao - A sweet and sour pulao baked with mung beans, apricots and bulghur (a kind of roughly milled cracked wheat). Exclusively vegetarian. *Khichdi *Zarda *Biryani (Most Popular) ===Meat dishes=== [[File:Pakistani Food Beef Kabobs.jpg|thumb|Seekh Kababs ]] Meat plays a much more dominant role in Pakistani cuisine compared to the other South Asian cuisines and is a major ingredient in most of the Pakistani dishes. The meat dishes in Pakistan include: bovine, ovine, poultry and seafood dishes. The meat is usually cut in 3 cm cubes and cooked as stew. The minced meat is used for Kebabs, Qeema and other meat dishes. Of all the meats, the most popular are goat or mutton, beef and chicken and is particularly sought after as the meat of choice for kebab dishes or the classic beef shank dish nihari. The meat dishes are also cooked with pulses, legumes and rice. Tandoori chicken, prepared in a clay oven called a tandoor, is probably the best-known Pakistani dish originated in Pakistani Punjab. The variety is endless, but here are a few examples: *Roasted Chicken (whole) - A whole chicken roasted locally known as 'charga' locally. *Aloo Gosht (Potatoes and Meat) - Chunks of potato and goat meat in gravy. Levels of spice vary. One example of a generic dish that includes most things + Gosht(meat). *Nihari- Mutton or beef simmered for several hours. A delicacy often eaten with ''Nan'', ''Sheer Mal'', or ''Taftan''. Few people will have this available without spice. Eat with lemon, fried onion and caution: it is one of the spiciest curries. Thick gravy made from local spices. Is oily and spicy. Available mostly everywhere. *Paye - or 'Siri Paye' is a stew of goat/beef/mutton bones (typically hooves, skull) and bone marrow. Extremely nutritious and generally eaten for breakfast with naan. Very, very wet salan, often served in a bowl or similar dish. Eat by dipping pieces of naan in it, maybe finishing with a spoon. Can be hard to eat. *Korma is a classic dish of Mughlai origin made of either chicken or mutton, typically eaten with nan or bread and is very popular in Pakistan. ====Barbecue and kebabs==== Meat and grilled meat has played an important part in Pakistan region for centuries. Sajji is a Baluchi dish from Western Pakistan, made of lamb with spices, that has also become popular all over the country. Another Balochi meat dish involves building a large outdoor fire and slowly cooking chickens. The chickens are placed on skewers which are staked into the ground in close proximity to the fire, so that the radiant heat slowly cooks the prepared chickens. Kebabs are a staple item in Pakistani cuisine today, and one can find countless varieties of kebabs all over the country. Each region has its own varieties of kebabs but some like the Seekh kebab, Chicken Tikka, and Shami kebab are especially popular varieties throughout the country. Generally, kebabs from Balochistan and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa tend to be identical to the Afghan style of barbecue, with salt and coriander being the only seasoning used. Regional kebab recipes from Karachi and the wider Sindh region is famous for its spicy kebabs, often marinated in a mixture of spices, lemon juice and yogurt. Barbecued food is also extremely popular in some cities of Punjab such as Lahore, Gujranwala and Sialkot. Pakistani cuisine is rich with different kebabs. Meat including beef, chicken, lamb and fish is used in kababs. Some popular kebabs are: *Chicken Tikka - Barbequed chicken with a spicy exterior. Looks like a huge, red chicken leg and thigh. For all meat lovers. Is available most anywhere. *Seekh Kebab - A long skewer of minced beef mixed with herbs and seasonings. *Shami Kebab - A round patty of seasoned beef and lentils, softer than seekh kababs. *Chapli Kebab - A spicy round kabab that is a specialty of Peshawar. *Chicken Kabab - A popular kabab that is found both with bone and without. *Lamb Kabab - The all lamb meat kabab is usually served as cubes. *Bihari kebab - Skewer of beef mixed with herbs and seasoning. *Tikka kebab - A kebab made of beef, lamb or chicken, cut into cubes, marinated with a yogurt blend and grilled on coals. *Boti kebab - A kebab made from fillet of meat. Sometimes marinated with green papaya to help tenderize the meat. *Shawarma - It is usually a kebab or lamb strips in a naan with chutney and salad. *Shashlik - Grilled baby lamb chops (usually from the leg), typically marinated *Balochi Sajji - Grilled mutton or lamb roasted on coal through indirect heat. Other dishes include Chargha, Dhaga kabab, Gola kebab, Reshmi kebab and Sajji. ===Desserts=== [[File:Falooda big.jpg|thumb|Falooda]] Popular desserts include Peshawari ice cream, Sheer Khurma, Kulfi, Falooda, Kheer, Rasmalai, Phirni, Zarda, Shahi Tukray and Rabri. Sweetmeats are consumed on various festive occasions in Pakistan. Some of the most popular are gulab jamun, barfi, ras malai, kalakand, jalebi, and panjiri. Pakistani desserts also include a long list of halvah such as Multani, sohan halvah, and hubshee halvah. Kheer made of roasted seviyaan (vermicelli) instead of rice is popular during Eid ul-Fitr. Gajraila is a sweet made from grated carrots, boiled in milk, sugar, green cardamom, and topped with nuts and dried fruit and is very popular in the country during winter season. * Enjoy a variety; ice cream can be found in an abundance of flavours such as the traditional pistachio flavoured Kulfi; * Falooda is tasty rosewater dessert and is a popular summer drink throughout the country. Traditional ice-cream known as 'kulfi' mixed with vermicelli, pistachio nuts and flavored with rose-water. Most ice-cream shops have their own versions. * Shirini or Mithai: is the generic name for a variety of sweet treats in Pakistan. The sweets are extremely popular in Pakistan and called different things depending on where you go. '''Eat small chunks at a time''', eating large pieces can be rude and will generally be too sweet. * Kulfi is a very traditional made ice-cream mixed with cream and different types of nuts. * If you want to go to some ice-cream parlours, there are some good western ice-cream parlours in Lahore like "Polka Parlor" "Jamin Java" "Hot Spot". For traditional ice creams, the 'Chaman' ice cream parlour across town is quite popular. * Halwa is a sweet dessert. Halwa comes in different styles such as made of eggs, carrots, flour or dry fruits. The halwas are made from semolina, ghee and sugar, garnished with dried fruits and nuts. Carrot halwa (called gaajar ka halwa) is also popular, as is halva made from tender bottle gourds and split chickpeas. Karachi halva is a speciality dessert from Karachi, * Firni or Kheer is similar to vanilla custard though prepared in a different style. the Sohan Halwa is also famous in the country. Equally famous is Habshi halwa, a dark brown milk-based halwa. *Gulab jamun – a cheese-based dessert. It is often eaten at festivals or major celebrations such as marriages, on happy occasions and Muslim celebrations of Eid ul-Fitr. Apart from local restaurants, international fast food chains have also popped up throughout Pakistan. They include, KFC, Pizza Hut, McDonald's, Subway, Nandos, Mr.Cod, Papa Johns, Dominoes etc. There are more European chains than North American. ===Snacks (Pakistani fast food)=== Pakistani snacks comprise food items in Pakistan that are quick to prepare, spicy, usually fried, and eaten in the evening or morning with tea or with any one of the meals as a side-dish. A given snack may be part of a local culture, and its preparation and/or popularity can vary from place to place. These snacks are often prepared and sold by hawkers on footpaths, bazaars, railway stations and other such places, although they may also be served at restaurants. Some typical snacks are dahi bhala, chaat, chana masala, Bun kebab, pakora, and papar. Others include katchauri, pakoras-either neem pakoras or besan (chickpea) pakoras,gol gappay, samosas—vegetable or beef, bhail puri or daal seu and egg rolls. Nuts, such as pistachios and pine nuts, are also often eaten at home. These snacks often smaller than a regular meal, generally eaten between meals. ===Other=== *'''Pakistani Chinese cuisine''' **Chicken Manchurian is the most popular dish with pieces of stir fried chicken served in a red ketchup based sauce. It is normally served with Egg or chicken fried rice. Basmati is the most common form of rice used. **Chinese soup - Chicken corn soup and hot and sour soup are ubiquitous in restaurants, homes and on TV. these are served with staples such as vinegar (sirka) and chili pepper. **Noodles - Chicken chowmein and Chopsuey are popular. Their method of cooking employs hearty use of soy sauce, ajino moto, vinegar and chilli sauce with vegetables, boneless chicken and/or Keema (minced meat). Oil concentrations are higher than normal Chinese noodles. ===Pakistani condiments=== [[File:Chutneykarnataka.jpg|thumbnail|Variety of Chutneys ]] Popular condiments used in Pakistani cuisine: * Chutneys **onion chutney **tomato chutney **cilantro (coriander leaves) chutney **mint chutney **tamarind chutney (Imli chutney) **mango (keri) chutney (made from unripe, green mangos) **lime chutney (made from whole, unripe limes) **garlic chutney made from fresh garlic, coconut and groundnut * Achars (pickle) **mango achar **lemon achar **carrot achar **cauliflower achar **green chilli achar **garlic achar **gongura achar **Hyderabadi pickle [[File:Raita with cucumber and mint.jpg|thumbnail|Raita with cucumber and mint]] * Sauces **Raita – a cucumber yogurt dip ===Etiquette=== {{infobox|Tipping|Tipping is expected everywhere in Pakistan, especially restaurants. Tip 5-10% at sit-down places.}} In Pakistan eating with your hand (instead of cutlery like forks and spoons) is very common. There's one basic rule of etiquette to observe, particularly in non-urban Pakistan: use only your right hand. Wash your hands well before and after eating, of course. For breads for all types, the basic technique is to hold down the item with your forefinger and use your middle-finger and thumb to tear off pieces. The pieces can then be dipped in sauce or used to pick up bits before you stuff them in your mouth. Unlike India, a spoon is commonly used in Pakistan for eating rice dishes. ==Drink== Tap water is unsafe for drinking. However, some establishments have water filters/purifiers installed, making it safe to drink. Ask for bottled water, and make sure that the cap's seal has not been broken. Some unscrupulous vendors reuse old bottles and fill them with tap water. Bottled water brands like Aquafina (by PepsiCo) and Nestle are widely available and costs Rs&nbsp;80 for a 1.5 litre bottle. Ask for bottled water wherever possible, and avoid anything cold that might have water (ice) in it. In semi-urban or rural areas, it may be advisable to ask for boiled water. Try a local limca cola, which makes a "pop" sound when opened. Pakola, Pakistan's premier soft drink brand, is available in many unusual flavours. Try a Lassi, a classic yoghurt drink served either plain or sweet and sometimes flavoured or even fused with fresh fruit. Rooh-Afza, a red-coloured, sweet, herbal drink. Sugar Cane Juice – which is extracted by mechanical force – is best when served fresh. You might also love the Falouda and Gola Ganda, which include various kinds of syrups in crushed ice. [[File:Making Lassi (White Beer) in Pakistan.jpg|thumb|Making Lassi]] * Tea (or ''chai'' as it is referred to in Pakistan) is popular throughout the country. ** Both black and green tea (Sabz chai or qahvah) are common and are traditionally drunk with cardamom and lots of sugar. Lemon is optional but recommended with green tea. **Kashmiri chai (Pink Tea), a traditional tea beverage from Kashmir, is a milky tea with pistachios, almonds and nuts added to give additional flavour. This tea is very popular during weddings, special occasions and in the cold season. * Coffee is also available in all cities. In the warmer southern region, sweet drinks are readily available throughout the day. Look for street vendors that have fruits (real or decorations) hanging from their roofs. Also, some milk/yogurt shops serve ''lassi''. Ask for ''meethi lassi'' for a sweet yogurt drink and you can also get a salty lassi which tastes good and is similar to the Arabic ''Laban'' if you are having "bhindi" in food or some other rich dish. There is also a sweet drink called Mango Lassi which is very rich and thick, made with yogurt, mango pulp, and pieces of mango. === Alcohol=== Drinking alcohol is generally frowned upon. Muslims are prohibited from buying, possessing or consuming alcohol in Pakistan. Alcohol (both imported and local) is available to non-Muslims in special shops and in bars in most top end hotels. There is also a huge black market across the country and the police tend to turn a blind eye to what is going on in private – still, relying on police practices is risky. Murree Brewery is the only reputable maker of local alcoholic beer. The brand is widely available throughout Pakistan. They also produce non-alcoholic beverages, including juices. Karachi is very lax towards alcohol with wine shops where one can get any brand of liquor. Also in other parts of Sindh, alcohol can be purchased from designated liquor shops. If you are a foreigner and looking for alcohol, you can contact the customer service department at Murree Brewery for assistance by telephone at {{phone|+92 051-5567041-7}}. ===Tea varieties=== [[File:Kashmiri Chai.JPG|thumb|Kashmiri chai]] Pakistanis drink a great deal of tea, which is locally called chai in most Pakistani languages. You can get tea anywhere, one variety or another. Both black with milk and green teas are popular – in different parts of Pakistan. It is one of the most consumed beverages in Pakistani cuisine. Different regions throughout the country have their own different flavours and varieties, giving Pakistani tea culture a diverse blend. * In Karachi, the strong presence of Muhajir cuisine has allowed the Masala chai version to be very popular. * Doodh Pati Chai is thick and milky. It is made by cooking tea leaves with milk and sugar and sometimes cardamom for fragrance. Extremely sweet, this is a local variation of a builder's tea. It is more preferred in Punjab. * "Sabz chai" and "kahwah", respectively. Kahwah is often served after every meal in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Pashtun belt of Balochistan and with saffron and nuts in Kashmir. * Sulaimani chai is black tea served with lemon. * Kashmiri chai or "noon chai", a pink, milky tea with pistachios and cardamom, is consumed primarily at special occasions, weddings, and during the winter when it is sold in many kiosks. * In northern Pakistan (Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan), salty buttered Tibetan style tea is consumed. Biscuits are often enjoyed with tea. ===Beverages=== Besides tea, there are other drinks that may be included as part of the Pakistani cuisine. All of them are non-alcoholic as the consumption of alcohol is prohibited by Islam. During the 20th century, drinks such as coffee and soft drinks have also become popular in Pakistan. It is very common to have soft drinks nowadays with Pakistani meals. * Lassi – milk with yoghurt, with an either sweet or salty taste. Lassi is a traditional drink in the Punjab region * Gola ganda – different types of flavours over crushed ice * Sugarcane juice (Ganney ka ras) – in summer, you can get fresh sugarcane juice in many places and even a lot of fresh fruit juice varieties. Be careful as fresh juice may contain many germs besides unhygienic ice. The juice vendors do not always clean their equipment properly and do not wash the fruits either. * Lemonade (Nimbu pani) * Sherbet (A syrup mixed in water) * Sikanjabeen – lemonade (mint is also added) * Almond sherbet * Sherbet-e-Sandal – drink made with the essence of sandal wood * Kashmiri chai/Gulabi chai – a milky tea known for its pink colour, with an either sweet or salty taste * Sathu – Famous drink from Punjab * Thaadal – A sweet drink from Sindh * Sardai – Mixture of different nuts and kishmish. * Sattu – famous drink in Lahore ==Sleep== [[File:Under the night sky.jpg|thumb|Night in Murree]] Pakistan, as a middle income country with a sizeable middle class and a significant domestic tourism industry, has a decent range of hotels covering all price ranges. International tourists are often disappointed by the cleanliness of Pakistani hotels - bedding is often clean but bathrooms can be a bit grungy. Pakistan is facing a significant slump in international tourist numbers; in the northern areas in particular you'll often find yourself the only guest. '''Budget''' The cheapest hotels are usually found around busy transport hubs like bus and train stations. Don't be fooled by an impressive lobby - ask to see the room and check the beds, toilets, lights, etc, before checking in. Hot water and air conditioning will be luxuries in this class. '''Mid range''' covers a wide spectrum of hotels - often listed in your guide book or on-line. All mid-range places will have a/c and hot water - although check if they have a working generator - air conditioning isn't of much use without electricity! Always check the room before handing over any money - ask for a no smoking room away from the street - and [[haggle]] to get a better rate. PTDC (government run) hotels fall in to the mid range section and warrant a special mention - often these places are the oldest hotel in town, in an excellent location, but the facilities will be showing their age. They are still a good option however, and discounts can be negotiated. Mid range prices are Rs2,000 - 6,000 per night. '''Top end''' covers the [http://www.serenahotels.com/ Serenas], [https://www.pchotels.com/ Pearl Continentals] and [http://www.marriott.com/hotel-search/pakistan.hotels/ Marriotts]. The Serena hotels are almost always excellent, whilst the Pearl Continental hotels are more patchy (e.g. the one in [[Rawalpindi]] is a bit grungy whilst the one in [[Muzaffarabad]] is very nice. At top-end places, security is very visible with small armies of security guards stationed around the perimeter. Prices are from Rs&nbsp;6,000, with the big city luxury hotels charging at least Rs&nbsp;10,000 a night. '''Government rest houses''' are mentioned in numerous guide books and are located in rural and mountainous areas for local civil servants to use on their travels, with many built pre-independence and exuding a quaint English charm. Previously the adventurous tourist could book these places for the night for Rs1,000 or so, and have a lovely time. But the tourist slump means that the forestry departments who run these places don't bother any more - phones will go unanswered - tourist information offices won't have any details etc, so count yourself lucky if you manage to arrange to stay in a Government rest house. '''Solo female travellers''' are at a disadvantage when it comes to hotels. All budget and many mid-range places will be the sole reserve of men, in particular in the cities - and hotel owners may be uncomfortable with the idea of an unaccompanied woman staying at their hotel. Hence you may be forced to stay at the upper-mid range and top end places - which will eat through your budget that much quicker. In some places the term "hotel" is reserved for simpler establishments, with "guest house" referring to medium-sized establishments where the standard is typically higher. Restaurants are also called "hotels", creating a fun potential for confusion. ==Stay safe== {{warningbox| Many Western governments advise against travel to parts of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Province, the city of Peshawar and districts south of the city, parts of Balochistan Province, the Karakorum Highway and areas within 10–50 km of the borders, and caution against non-essential travel to some other areas. Pakistan and Afghanistan are fighting an '''[[War zone safety|open war]]''' (as of April 2026). Areas bordering Afghanistan (and in particular, the former FATA) has a high threat of terrorist attack against places that are frequented by foreigners, are more dangerous than other destinations, and are generally considered to be unsafe for travel. Relations with India remain poor and most countries advise against all travel or all non essential travel between 5-10 miles of the international border, especially at the Line of Control (LoC). |us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/pakistan-travel-advisory.html |australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/pakistan |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/pakistan |ie=https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/pakistan/ |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/pakistan |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/pakistan |lastedit=2026-03-01 }} In an emergency, call the police by '''15''' from any landline phone. To get an ambulance, dial '''115''' and '''1122''' from any landline or mobile phone. Several extremist movements are active in the country, including the Pakistan So-called Taliban Movement (TTP), which seeks to destabilise the country's governance through terrorist attacks, most of which target Pakistani authorities, but also civilian targets such as schools, mosques, churches and mass gatherings. Terrorists and organised crime have occasionally taken people hostage. As economic hardship has increased and pandemics, price rises and summer devastation have pushed people into poverty, conventional crime has increased, especially in large cities. In big cities, there can be large gaps in security between the 'better off' areas and those inhabited by the less well-off. Be vigilant and avoid walking in the dark. Westerners should avoid staying near mosques, especially during Friday afternoon prayers and major religious holidays. Some mosques are well protected and well-known tourist attractions, while others are dominated by radical movements. Check the local security situation before visiting. As of April 2026, Pakistan is '''at war''' with Afghanistan, and it is advised to avoid the Afghan border. ===Terrorism=== Pakistan has endured several bomb attacks against security forces and so called ''western institutions'' (e.g. the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad), and has seen the public assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto upon her return from exile. These attacks have decreased significantly since 2014 due to successful military operations against terrorists. For the ordinary traveller, Pakistan has a tradition of hospitality that has been subverted by perceptions of 'Western' unfairness. Social protests tend to turn violent and political demonstrations are always sensitive. Before travelling you should check with your embassy about off-limits areas, the latest political and military developments and keep a close eye on current issues with independent news sources. Stay away from military convoys as they are a potential target for suicide bombing. Similarly, going near military or intelligence facilities can be dangerous. Carrying firearms can land you in police custody, except if you get a special permit from a relevant authority. ===Sensitive areas=== The line of control (LoC) between [[Azad Kashmir]], [[Gilgit-Baltistan]] and the Indian-administered [[Jammu and Kashmir]] and [[Ladakh]] is off-limits for foreign tourists, though domestic tourists can visit Azad Kashmir without any restriction, but they should keep their identity cards with them. Furthermore, the rest of Pakistan's huge border with India is completely off limits, hence many countries advise against travelling within 10 km of this border. Some parts of the Pakistan border in Sindh province are unmarked, so you might illegally stray into the Indian states of [[Rajasthan]] and [[Gujarat]]. The former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) in [[Northwest Pakistan]] and all regions near the sensitive Afghan border should not be visited at any time by foreign tourists, as the Pakistan government has little to no authority in these areas and cannot aid you in an emergency. If you do have reason to visit, seek expert guidance, including that of your embassy, who can advise you on the special permissions required. [[File:8 Kalam Valley, Swat.jpg|thumb|Swat Valley landscape]] [[Balochistan]] is considered dangerous and not fit for travellers. Many foreign nationals need to obtain a '''No Objection Certificates''' (NOCs) to visit this province. Your embassy may be able to guide you better on obtaining the NOC. The rules regarding sensitive areas and NOC, ''Note Verbal''s and other permissions and paperwork are ever-changing. The most notorious NOC regulation is for foreigners to enter Kashmir, partly to keep track of and control foreigners there. Outside Kashmir diplomats are the primary user of NOCs and theoretically the normal tourist should be exempt. However, you may be asked to produce an NOC whenever you step off a plane or out of a bus. You may see road signs in English saying 'no foreigners allowed beyond this point', for example on the road to Kahuta near Islamabad. If you see and need to pass one of these signs, at the very least stop at the nearest police station and see if they will let you pass (speaking Urdu is an advantage here), or turn back and find another route. Typically, restricted areas are those with nuclear or military installations nearby. Kahuta, south-east of Islamabad, and the Sakesar hill station near the Amb temples in the Salt Range are two restricted areas the visitor may stumble across. Getting caught in a restricted area will mean a lot of wasted time, embarrassment and arrest. ===Dangerous drivers=== Pakistan has a high number of fatal traffic collisions; WHO estimated 30,131 deaths on its roads in 2010 – one fatality for every third car. Drivers are reckless and scoff at laws and what would be common courtesies in other countries. Their philosophy of "might is right" often leads to horrendous crashes between trucks and between trucks and buses. ===Sexuality=== Prostitution has no legal recognition in Pakistan. Homosexuals should be very cautious in Pakistan, as homosexuality remains illegal in Pakistan and the results can be severe. Pakistani law criminalises "unnatural carnal intercourse" (the definition of which includes homosexuality), and those convicted can be jailed for 10 years. Arrests for homosexuality are not common, though, as evidenced by a vibrant gay nightlife existing in many metropolitan areas. ==Stay healthy== Pakistan has lower hygiene standards than those of Western nations. Visitors are strongly advised to refrain from drinking '''[[tap water]]''', which contains many impurities; many Pakistani locals themselves drink boiled or purified water, and you should drink only boiled, filtered or bottled water. Tap water is known to contain many impurities. Ice is usually made from regular tap water, and may be even harder to avoid. Fresh milk from the carrier should be boiled and cooled before consumption. Non-pasteurized dairy can spread tuberculosis, which might be the cause of those hacking coughs you hear on the street. Trusted brands are available at most grocery stores, including Nestle Milk Pack, Haleeb Milk and Olpers. Take precautions against '''[[dengue fever]]''' and '''[[malaria]]''', both spread by [[mosquitoes]]. The most effective prevention is to avoid getting bitten, but if you plan to stay in a place where malaria is common, you will need to take prophylactic medicines such as ''Proguanil'', doxycycline, or mefloquine. The risk of getting malaria decreases with higher altitudes and is usually negligible above {{m|2500}}. No prophylaxis or cure is available for dengue fever. It is prevalent during summer, especially during the monsoon (July to September) and can be fatal. It is caused by mosquitoes that bite during the day, and the most widespread outbreaks of dengue are expected in Punjab. In the summer it gets very hot, so stay [[Dehydration|hydrated]]. Temperatures may rise to 50°C in June and July, but as soon as monsoon rains set in during Aug–Sept, it cools to around 30°C, though with high levels of humidity. Do not eat food that has been lying out for some time, as high temperatures speed up deterioration. Avoid posh but unfrequented restaurants. Some Pakistani dishes can be very spicy! Always notify your host, cook or waiter if you cannot tolerate very spicy food. ==Respect== [[File:Shalwar kameez Colours.jpg|thumb|Shalwar kameez colours]] Despite sharp political and religious differences, Pakistan and India share a common culture; the various respect tips found in the [[India#Respect|India]] article will come in handy during your visit. The culture has a strong tradition of hospitality. Guests are often treated extremely well. Pakistanis pride themselves on their tradition of hospitality to guests (''mehmanawazi'' in Urdu). Nonetheless, Pakistan does not see many foreigners and there is some insularity as well; consequently foreigners may be occasionally regarded with suspicion and attract stares. But in general, Pakistanis are warm, friendly and generous individuals with a strong interest in foreigners and other cultures. Thanks to the traditionally close and friendly diplomatic relationship between [[China]] and Pakistan, Chinese people may find themselves being exceptionally welcomed by Pakistanis. === Religion and rituals === * Discussion about religion should always remain respectful and positive – many Pakistanis are strongly religious, and negative talk about religion can very easily elicit some strong responses. * If at all possible, try not to schedule meetings during Ramadan. The workday is shortened, and since Muslims fast, they will not be able to offer you tea, which is a sign of hospitality. Meetings are also not scheduled during prayers. Refer to [[travelling during Ramadan]] if you are going to be here in that month. * Remember to remove your shoes when entering a religious building. There are dedicated areas where your footwear may be stored for a small fee in shrines. There may be racks for them in mosques, otherwise just leave them where others do. Women aren't generally allowed to visit mosques in Pakistan. Where they are allowed, they must wear very modest clothes (long skirts and shawls to cover the body as well as sleeves and legs), and cover their heads with a headscarf or such like. Men should also wear modest clothes; shorts are considered rude. Mosques are sometimes off-limits to non-Muslims, so it is always better to inquire with someone at the mosque before entering. === Etiquette=== * Pakistanis, by and large, are neutral communicators. Although Pakistanis try to be respectful and courteous in social situations, words are often taken at face value. It's important to be explicitly clear and upfront about what you intend to say as euphemisms, idiomatic language, and the like may be misunderstood. * Direct personal questions (about your personal life, salary, education, and lifestyle) are commonly asked. To Pakistanis, it's not considered impolite, but rather it's a way to get to know someone fully. In some cases, you may find others giving you advice on whatever you are doing, warranted or unwarranted. Don't feel annoyed, as Pakistanis don't intend to patronise or pull you down in any way. If you feel the question was too personal, simply give an indirect answer and move along. * Family values are highly revered by many Pakistanis, and respect for the elderly is immense. Don't pass unwarranted comments about someone's family life. Similarly, it's not considered good form to criticise someone much older than you. * As in all countries in [[South Asia]], you will often be showered with tea, sweets, snacks, and gifts when entering someone's home. Do not refuse any of these as it is likely to offend your hosts. * You'll often be encouraged by your hosts to take second helpings ad infinitum. If so, take it as a form of respect as it may leave a good impression on your hosts. Cleaning your plate will invite more to be served, while leaving too much may be a sign you didn't care for it. Aim for leaving just a little, announcing you're full, and heavily praising the food. * Never show up at someone's home empty handed. You don't have to provide an incredibly expensive gift, but a simple gift such as sweets will leave a good impression on your hosts. * Use your right hand for eating, shaking hands and giving or receiving everything (including money), and reserve your left hand for handling shoes and assisting in toilet duties. * People of opposite sex do not shake hands when they greet each other. It is sometimes usual among men to put the left hand on your chest (heart) when shaking hands. In urban Pakistan and in some other parts of the country, men and women usually lower their head and lift their hand to their forehead to make the "adab" gesture when greeting each other. Men should ''never'' shake hands with or touch a woman they don't know very well. * Business and operations tend to move slowly, and will often be preceded by chit-chat, family meetings, and the like. Keep your calm, as showing frustration or rushing to the point can be seen as rude, and even humorous. * Pakistani people generally dress conservatively, although in metropolitan cities more liberal attire can be seen. It is advisable for women to wear long skirts or trousers in public. It is not mandatory for women to wear a ''hijab'' or ''abaya''. Pakistani women wear the traditional ''shalwar kameez''. In the big cities, women wearing jeans and khakis is not an unusual sight, especially in casual settings, shopping malls and around picnic spots. Dress codes for men are more lax, though shorts are uncommon. Females dressing immodestly may attract unwanted attention from men. * Do not take photographs of people without their consent. As in all Muslim-majority countries, people place a high value on personal privacy. Also, taking photographs in non-tourist areas may be met with suspicion. * It is considered rude to introduce yourself to strangers; it is generally advisable to ask some mutual acquaintance to introduce you. Strangers will speak with each other in the "formal" register of Urdu, and using the familiar register will be seen as very rude. When being introduced to elders or strangers while seated it is customary to get up as a sign of respect. It is advisable to ask a person how they wish to be addressed. * Pakistanis will consider themselves obliged to go out of their way to fulfil a guest's request and will insist very strongly that it is no inconvenience to do so, even if it is. There is a reciprocal obligation on you as a guest. * It is customary to put up a token friendly argument with your host or any other member of the group when paying bills at restaurants or while making purchases. The etiquette for this is somewhat complicated. ** At a business lunch or dinner, it is usually clear upfront who is supposed to pay, and there is no need to fight. But if you are someone's personal guest and they take you out to a restaurant, you should offer to pay anyway, and you should insist a lot. Sometimes these fights get a little funny, with each side trying to snatch the bill away from the other, all the time laughing politely. If you don't have experience in these things, chances are, you will lose the chance the first time, but in that case, make sure that you pay the next time (and try to make sure that there is a next time). Unless the bill amount is very large, do not offer to share it, and only as a second resort after they have refused to let you pay it all. ** The same rule applies when you are making a purchase. If you are purchasing something for yourself, your hosts might still offer to pay for it if the amount is not very high, and sometimes, even if it is. In this situation, unless the amount is very low, you should never lose the fight. Even if by chance you lose the fight to pay the shopkeeper, it is customary to practically thrust (in a nice way, of course) the money into your host's hands. ** These rules do not apply if the host has made it clear beforehand that it is his or her treat, especially for some specific occasion. === Things to avoid === Pakistanis will understand that you are not fully aware of what's considered appropriate/inappropriate in their country, and they will usually be tolerant of your blunders. This said, you should avoid doing the following during your stay in the country. ==== Politics ==== * '''Avoid being overly enthusiastic about [[India]]'''. The two countries have had a hostile, strained, often violent history, which has culminated in millions of deaths and refugees. Attempting to compliment or say anything that could be perceived as positive about India can evoke a strong response from some Pakistanis. Don't be afraid to inquire about the Indo-Pakistani relationship, but bear in mind that it can result in a very heated, often emotional, conversation. Keep in mind that most ordinary Pakistanis have nothing against Indian people. Most Pakistanis simply want peace between India and Pakistan. * Be cautious when discussing '''politics'''. Pakistan is a politically troubled country. Social protests tend to turn violent and political demonstrations are almost always sensitive. As a visitor, you'll note how ardently political the Pakistanis are, and you may be exposed to a breadth of political opinions both publicly and privately. This said though, you could immediately be seen as uninformed if you do not follow Pakistani news closely. Don't hesitate to engage in political discussions, but it's worth mentioning that being a visitor puts you in a delicate position. * Be cautious when discussing the '''Pakistani military'''. The military is highly venerated in the country, and criticising anything about it may be met with dismay by some. * '''Kashmir''' is a particularly sensitive subject which many Pakistanis have strong views about. The issue of converting Gilgit-Baltistan into a full-fledged province is a particularly touchy subject and this has, in the past, often evoked strong responses. Inquiries into the Kashmir conflict can be met with fierce, passionate, or even hostile debates depending on your views. Some Pakistanis may voice their support for certain Kashmiri militant groups (particularly Jaish-e-Mohammed) and may react with dismay if you call them terrorist organisations. * Although the insurgency movement in '''[[Balochistan]]''' has simmered down, some, if not all of the inhabitants of the region, advocate for separation from Pakistan. ==Connect== The '''country code''' for Pakistan is +92 if you are calling from outside the country. Phone numbers are seven digits long with a two-digit city code in larger districts, and six digits long with a three-digit city code in smaller districts, for a total of nine digits as a standard nationwide (except for [[Azad Kashmir]]). All mobile numbers, however, are seven digits long and begin with a four digit network code "03XX", where XX indicates the cellular provider. Thus Pakistani mobile numbers are linked to one particular cellular provider, NOT one particular city as in North America. Therefore the city prefix should not be dialled in addition to the cellular prefix. As in many countries, omit the initial zero when dialling a city or cell code from outside Pakistan and prefix the '92' country code after dialling your country's international access code. Thus Telenor cell number 765 4321 dialled from the USA/Canada would be 011 92 345 765 4321 and Peshawar landline 234-5678 dialled from France or the UK would be 00 92 91 234-5678. The international access code for outgoing calls from Pakistan is 00. [http://www.ptcl.com.pk '''PTCL''']{{Dead link|date=March 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offers landline and wireless phone services. '''Public Call Offices''' can be found all over the country. You will find a PCO in nearly 50% of the general stores where there is usually someone who operates the phone and fax. Fees will be charged according to the time spent, and you will pay when you have finished your call. ===Cell phone=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" ! Calling from !! Price !! Syntax !! Example |- | Same city || Local || align=right| ''number'' || align=right| 123-4567 |- | Different city || STD || align=right| '''0'''-''area code''-''number'' || align=right| 051 123-4567 |- | Overseas || ISD || align=right| '''+92'''-''area code''-''number'' || align=right| +92 51 123-4567 |} Major providers of mobile phone service (GSM) are: * '''[http://www.jazz.com.pk Jazz]''' * '''[http://www.telenor.com.pk Telenor]{{Dead link|date=August 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' * '''[http://www.ufone.com Ufone]''' * '''[http://www.waridtel.com Warid]''' * '''[http://www.zong.com.pk Zong - China Mobile]''' * '''[https://onic.pk/ Onic]''' One very convenient feature is that all Pakistani cellular operators use the GSM platform, so that cellular handsets nationwide are freely interchangeable between providers. Cell phones were considered as a status symbol a few years ago but, since 2002, the telecommunications industry has experienced a bit of a boom. These days you can hardly find a single person in the country without a personal cell phone. There are various service providers offering a huge variety of plans. Among them are Jazz, Warid Telecom, Telenor, Ufone, Zong (China Mobile) & Onic. It's not a bad idea to buy a cell phone and use a prepaid plan to get yourself connected while you are in the country. The mobile phones and the prepaid plans are very cheap; you can usually get a new cheap cell phone just for Rs&nbsp;2,000 and a prepaid connection for Rs&nbsp;150-400. Due to security threats, in order to purchase a SIM card you will need to provide formal identification such as visas, resident permits and residing address in Pakistan along with a written declaration that you will not use the provided phone number for any illegal activity. Starting March 2015, possession of an unverified SIM will be considered a serious and punishable crime. ===Internet=== Pakistan's internet access lags significantly behind other countries. '''Cybercafes''' can be found on virtually every street corner and the rates are as low as Rs&nbsp;40-50 per hour. The vast majority of computers are still limited to either Windows XP or Windows 7, so patience is necessary for more modern websites. Most of the cafes have a decent speed internet connection. Internet Access can be obtained easily on notebook computers with the help of GPRS enabled mobile connections, supported by almost all of the five mobile operators. '''[https://alljazzpackages.com.pk/jazz-internet-packages/ Jazz]{{Dead link|date=February 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' and '''[https://onic.pk/monthly-plans Onic]''' provides 3G and 4G based connection in urban areas of the country, '''Telenor''''s also provides services in 3G to most of the urban parts of country. The standard price of GPRS/EDGE usage is Rs&nbsp;10-18 per MB of data transferred but '''Zong''' offers Rs&nbsp;15/h. If you wish to download much more, you may want to use unlimited packages, provided only by all networks. '''World Call''' and [http://www.ufone.com/mobpro_mobileinternet.aspx '''Ufone'''] also offers a USB Modem. 3G and 4G based connections are also available from all the mobile service providers. 5G has been rolled out in 16 cities across Pakistan. Wateen, WiTribe, and Qubee are WiMax internet providers. National telecommunication company PTCL offers a USB EVo device for very fast internet connections. There are '''Wi-Fi hotspots''' all over Pakistan, in hotels, malls, and cafes/restaurants. {{geo|30|71|zoom=6}} {{isPartOf|South Asia}} {{outlinecountry}} rgfyzwxw9ele8ed4uvmboy7xh03zmiz 0 26666 5288856 5278307 2026-06-06T13:34:35Z Borgenland 2282829 /* See */ expand 5288856 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Pangasinan Agno river.jpg}} '''Pangasinan''' is a province in the [[Ilocos|Ilocos Region]] of northern [[Luzon]], the chief island of the [[Philippines]]. Its capital is [[Lingayen]]. Being in a fertile plain with an extensive coastline, the area is known for agricultural and aquatic products like corn crops, dried fish, carabao milk, ''duhat'' wine, nipa hut roofings, tuba and other products. ==Regions== * '''Western Pangasinan''' * '''Central Pangasinan''' * '''Eastern Pangasinan''' * '''Southern Pangasinan''' ==Cities and municipalities== Each municipality in Pangasinan has its unique characteristics and contributions to the province's cultural and economic landscape. {{mapframe}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lingayen]]|wikidata=Q41978}} – The provincial capital of Pangasinan and famous for its fermented fish sauce or that so-called '''bagoong'''. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Alaminos]]|wikidata=Q43162}} – Home to the famous '''Hundred Islands'''. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Alcala]]|wikidata=Q41704}} – Famous for its vibrant agricultural industry, particularly rice and corn production. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bani (Pangasinan)|Bani]]|wikidata=Q41732}} – Known for its coastal areas and fishing communities. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Binalonan]]|wikidata=Q41771}} – Known for its religious significance and the St. Peter and Paul Parish Church. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Binmaley]]|wikidata=Q41779}} – Famous for its freshwater fish production, known as the “Seafood Capital of the North”. They also celebrate their annual '''Sigay Festival'''. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bolinao]]|wikidata=Q41807}} – Known for its white sand beaches, Patar beach and its native product ''binungey'', also known as bamboo cake. It is also a renowned tourist destination with stunning beaches and the iconic Cape Bolinao Lighthouse. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Burgos (Pangasinan)|Burgos]]|wikidata=Q41850}} – Offers many beaches and a waterfall. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Calasiao]]|wikidata=Q41855}} – Home to the famous Calasiao puto (rice cake) and the St. Peter and Paul Parish Church. They also celebrate their '''Puto Festival''' annually. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Dagupan]]|wikidata=Q875070}} – home of the tasty Bonuan ''bangus'' (milkfish), and the economic hub of the province. Known as the Bangus capital of the country, '''Bangus Festival''' is celebrated annually every month of April. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Dasol]]|wikidata=Q41917}} – Town facing the coast of West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). Known for Tambobong Beach and white sand islets. It is also known for salt-making with more than 10,000 salt beds. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Infanta]]|wikidata=Q41922}} – Known for its coastal charm and beautiful beaches. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mabini (Pangasinan)|Mabini]]|wikidata=Q41982}} – Known for its caves. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Malasiqui]]|wikidata=Q41985}} – Famous for its agricultural products, including rice and vegetables. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Manaoag]]|wikidata=Q1020685}} – Home to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag, a major pilgrimage site in the Philippines. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mangatarem]]|wikidata=Q42001}} – An agricultural municipality with an expansive public market. Also known for the Manleluag Spring Protected Landscape. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[San Carlos (Pangasinan)|San Carlos]]|wikidata=Q43165}} – The "Mango-Bamboo Capital of the Philippines", and a cultural and historical center of Pangasinan. Site of the '''Mango-Bamboo Festival''' every April, an event marked by green and yellow colors, delicious mangoes and durable bamboo handicrafts and the hospitality of San Carlos' people. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[San Manuel]]|wikidata=Q42039}} – A municipality with a focus on farming and rural life, known for its ''San Roque Multi-Purpose Dam Project'', which is the second largest dam in Asia. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sison]]|wikidata=Q43143}} – Site of numerous Cordilleran hills and mountains and waterfalls such as Antong Falls. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sual]]|wikidata=Q43145}} – Renowned for its power plant and coastal attractions. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tayug]]|wikidata=Q43148}} – Known for its agricultural heritage and rural landscapes. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Umingan]]|wikidata=Q43152}} – Mostly just interesting for the nearby Diket Falls. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Urdaneta]]|wikidata=Q43168}} – The economic center of eastern Pangasinan. ==Other destinations== * {{listing | name=Umbrella Rocks | alt= | url= | email= | address=near Agno | lat=16.13400 | long=119.77637 | directions=at the mouth of the Balingcaging River | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-08 | content=A nature's masterpiece, these rock formation are mushroom/umbrella shape boulders along the mouth of Balincaguing River, in Sabangan. }} * {{listing | name=Sunflower Maze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tayug | lat=15.9766 | long=120.7495 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-08 | content=It is a giant maze on a farm. The 2,600-m² sunflower maze consists of more or less 8,000 sunflower plants in its 3-hectare farm. }} ==Understand== The name "Pangasinan" can be ambiguous; it can refer also to the people and the language. Pangasinan's name derives from the word for "place of salt", with the root word "asin" (salt). Salt production is the main source of income, but the local economy has since diversified. It is the richest and most populous province among the four in Ilocos Region. The local people are of the same name, '''Pangasinan''' (also called ''Pangasinense'' or ''Panggalatok'', the latter they consider to be derogatory), but the province has been heavily settled by Ilocanos from the north, which still some natives resent. Other ethnic groups are the indigenous Sambal peoples, who live in western Pangasinan and are related to the inhabitants of neighboring Zambales, which also used to include western Pangasinan until the American era. The few ethnic Tagalogs are mostly in parts of Pangasinan bordering Tagalog-speaking Nueva Ecija. While historically, geographically, and culturally linked to [[Central Luzon]], Pangasinan is rather lumped up as part of Ilocos Region as a relic of the Marcos era. As a result, native Pangasinan object to calling Ilocos Region as simply Ilocos. ==Talk== The primary language is '''[[Pangasinan phrasebook|Pangasinan]]''', though Ilocano and Tagalog are also widely used. Pangasinan, also called ''Pangasinense'' or ''Panggalatok'' (the latter considered derogatory), is a Philippine language native to the province. It is a relative of Ilocano, which is spoken across the Ilocos region, but is more closely related to the indigenous languages of Benguet. It is co-official with English and Filipino in the province, and is used in education from kindergarten to grade 3, but it mostly exists as a spoken language. It is spoken by Ilocanos and Sambalis as second language. [[Ilocano phrasebook|Ilocano]] is also widely spoken, particularly in the east of the province, but its usage in Pangasinan is somewhat controversial due to it causing the decline in usage of Pangasinan. It is spoken by many Pangasinan people and Sambalis as second language. Other languages are [[Sambal phrasebook|Sambal]] to the southwest and Bolinao to the west. Tagalog is also spoken in the towns bordering [[Nueva Ecija]]. ==Get in== ===By bus=== '''Victory Liner''' runs buses every hour from Manila to Alaminos, Lingayen or Dagupan (and vice versa), with stopovers at [[Angeles#By bus|Dau]] and [[Tarlac City]]; some buses continue onward to [[Baguio]] through MacArthur Highway/Manila North Road (Route 2). '''Five Star''', Victory's sister bus company, also serve the same destination pairs, but they also have a trip from [[Santiago (Isabela)|Santiago]] in [[Isabela (province)|Isabela]] with an ordinary (non-air-conditioned) bus. ===By car=== Pangasinan is served by the '''Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway''' since 2015, shortening travel time from Manila. The slower and older route from Manila is Rte 2, named '''MacArthur Hwy''' from the Tarlac boundary to Urdaneta and '''Manila North Rd''' north of Urdaneta. Other major highways to Pangasinan are Rte 55 (Romulo Hwy and Pangasinan-La Union Rd), Rte 56 (Pangasinan-Nueva Ecija Rd) Rte 114 (Pangasinan-Nueva Vizcaya Rd) and Rte 306 (Zambales Hwy). ===By plane=== There is no airport in Pangasinan with commercial flights, and the two only airports, in [[Lingayen]] and [[Binalonan]], are mostly used by general aviation and flying schools. The nearest major airport is at [[CRK|Clark Freeport]]. There are plans to build a new airport at [[Alaminos]], but construction is stalled due to opposition from environmentalists. ==Get around== The best way to get around Pangasinan is by provincial bus, with frequent connections across key cities and towns. Major operators are Victory Liner and Five Star, Pangasinan Solid North and Dagupan Bus Line. Highways are of a decent standard, but most will be two- to four-lane roads with homes and businesses at both sides, and lots of slow traffic and obstacles. Jeepneys are the primary mode of local public transport around Dagupan and surroundings. On most other places, tricycles are more common, and jeepneys primarily used to service nearby towns, but are less comfortable than buses. ==See== Western Pangasinan is a popular beach destination, particularly Bolinao and Alaminos with its Hundred Islands. The Lingayen Gulf coast has some nice beaches, but is more utilized by the fishing industry. Eastern Pangasinan may be a bit bland for travelers, but its mountainous edges are underrated getaways. The town of Manaoag, with its venerated image of the Virgin Mary, is the leading pilgrimage spot for Catholics north of Metro Manila. ==Do== * Mountain hiking or picnicking in the mountains of San Nicolas. * Ziplining, other outdoor activities and a hot spring can be found west of Rosales. * Go island hopping and snorkelling in '''Hundred Island National Park'''. * Visit the largest dam in the Philippines and 16th largest in the world, the '''San Roque Dam''' located near San Manuel. * '''Malangsi Fishtival''' is a yearly agricultural festival in April in the town of Bayambang in the south of Pangasinan. * Dipalo River scenic area in San Quintin municipality ===Beaches=== * '''Patar White Sand Beach''' * The beaches near '''San Fabian''' in the northeastern part of Pangasinan are worth a visit * Tondol Beach or often referred to a '''Little Boracay of the North''' is a stunning beach near Anda in the far northwest of the region. ==Buy== For a fishy experience, try the fish market in Dagupan. ==Eat== ==Sleep== ==Go next== * [[La Union]] {{outlineregion}} {{isPartOf|Ilocos}} {{geo|15.9167|120.3333|zoom=7}} jthxntev2uwrcfettuy7bh4vajs5scp 0 26948 5288838 5052963 2026-06-06T12:24:51Z Pashley 1822 /* Malls */ 5288838 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Pasay SM Mall of Asia.jpg}} '''Pasay''' is a city in [[Metro Manila]]. Just south of [[Manila]], this city houses the [[Ninoy Aquino International Airport]] which serves the region, and the '''Bay City''' development which hosts SM Mall of Asia, also part of Manila's tourist area. Pasay displays huge contrasts, from the relative sterility of the Bay City development to the urban blight in the rest of the city. The relative lack of sights make this rather a minor destination, except for spots like SM Mall of Asia and Star City, all within the more stable Bay City area, built on land reclaimed from Manila Bay. ==Understand== Pasay's growth is generally connected to Manila's outward expansion. ===Orientation=== [[Image:0041jfEDSA Taft Avenue MRT Station LRT Footbridge Pasay Cityfvf 10.jpg|thumb|Around EDSA Rotunda]] The city is roughly divided by Roxas Boulevard into two parts, showing sharp contrasts. The '''Reclamation Area''' is the more sterile part of Pasay, where the obvious visitor attractions are found; east of it is the rest of the city which is a concrete jungle, a mix of high-rise condominiums, multistory apartments, ordinary one to two-story houses, and rickety slum residences. '''EDSA Rotunda''' is an area at the interchange between Lines 1 and 3 and a land transport hub, also seedy not only for street vendors and petty crime, but also for prostitution and a row of no-tell motels, lending its reputation as a red-light district outside Manila city proper. The southeastern corner of Pasay contains Villamor Airbase, Newport City, and the airport. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|14.53910|120.99869|zoom=13}} ===By plane=== {{main|Ninoy Aquino International Airport}} [[Ninoy Aquino International Airport|'''Ninoy Aquino International Airport''']] lies in the southern part of [[Pasay]]. Terminal 1 is principally used by the majority of international carriers; Terminal 2 is exclusively used by [[Philippine Airlines|'''Philippine Airlines''']] flights (domestic or international). Terminal 3 is used by '''Cebu Pacific''', '''Philippine Airlines''' (some domestic flights), '''Air Asia''', '''ANA''', '''Cathay Pacific''', '''Delta Air Lines''', '''Emirates''', '''KLM''', and '''Singapore Airlines'''. Terminal 4 is used by domestic carriers using smaller aircraft. There are yellow airport meter taxis waiting outside the arrival areas, each dispatched when one departs. Beware of scams, especially those using a device that tampers the meter (''batingting''), and insist on using the meter. White taxis are ''not officially sanctioned'' by NAIA, but their drivers are more honest, with a base fare of {{PHP|30}}. But most only serve the departure area, and are not allowed to pick up passengers. ===By bus=== Pasay is served by these numbered bus routes since June 2020: *Route E EDSA Carousel: A BRT-like service which plies EDSA, and supplements MRT operations. *Route 2 Monumento-PITX: Runs from Monumento in [[Caloocan]] via [[Navotas]] and Roxas Boulevard. *Route 6 Quezon Avenue-EDSA-Taft: Travels from the intersection of EDSA and Quezon Avenue via Manila's University Belt and Taft Avenue *Route 17 Monumento-EDSA/Taft: North-south route ending at Pasay Rotonda that supplements LRT Line 1 operations. *Route 18 PITX-NAIA loop: Airport shuttle route which runs clockwise via EDSA and Andrews Avenue. Buses stop at Mall of Asia and the Pasay Rotonda. As of 2021, provincial buses from both north and south no longer terminate at Pasay; those now terminate at [[Bocaue#By bus|North Luzon Express Terminal]] (NLET) in Bocaue, Araneta City Bus Port in [[Cubao]], [[Quezon City]] or [[Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange]] (PITX) in [[Parañaque]]. ===By train=== '''Pasay''' is the at terminus of the '''LRT Line 1 (LRT-1)''' and '''MRT Line 3 (MRT-3).''' ==Get around== For public transportation you may use '''[http://www.sakay.ph sakay.ph] {{dead link|August 2018|December 2020}}''', it will show you commute directions to your destination. However, note that some routes are not up-to-date. [[Metro_Manila#By_jeepney|Jeepneys]] are the main form of transportation in Pasay, just check the front and side signs displaying route & destination info. Additionally, there are [[Traysikel|tricycles]] & tuktuks available but be mindful of potential price gouging as fares shouldn't exceed {{PHP|200}}. Even for locals, public transportation isn't the safest and most comfortable. Using [[Metro_Manila#By_ride-hail|ride-hail apps]] for cars or motorcycles are still the best options. As with most of Metro Manila, it is inadvisable to drive around Pasay due to heavy traffic, limited parking options, and aggressive street behavior amongst local motorists. The major thoroughfares are EDSA, Roxas Boulevard, Gil Puyat Avenue, Taft Avenue, Macapagal Boulevard, Arnaiz Avenue, and Harrison Avenue, however, congestion along these routes continues to worsen and remain troublesome without viable alternatives present. ==See== * {{see | name=Cultural Center of the Philippines | alt= | url=https://culturalcenter.gov.ph/ | email= | address=CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard | lat=14.55843 | long=120.98592 | directions= | phone=+63 288321125 | tollfree= | hours=8AM-10PM | price= | wikipedia=Cultural Center of the Philippines | wikidata=Q3544802 | lastedit=2023-07-15 | content=Straddling the boundary with Manila, this building complex showcases Filipino performing arts and culture. The area is also popular for jogging, and families often have picnics here, especially on weekends. }} ** {{see | name=Tanghalang Pambansa | alt= | url= | email= | address=Roxas Boulevard | lat=14.55827 | long=120.98571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30590055 | lastedit=2019-01-28 | content=A giant Brutalist theater building that is the center of the CCP complex. It was built in 1969, and the architecture was designed by Filipino architect Leandro Locsin. It houses four theatres for different performance genres. }} ** {{see | name=Harbour Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=14.55844 | long=120.98432| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-07-15 | content= Surrounded by a variety of dining shops, offering a diverse culinary experience. Visitors can enjoy a picturesque view that showcases yachts from the Manila Yacht Club against the stunning backdrop of the Manila skyline. A perfect spot for relaxation and appreciation of the city's charm. }} * {{see | name=GSIS Building | alt=Senate Building | url= | email= | address=Jose W. Diokno Boulevard | lat=14.546978 | long=120.983778 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=GSIS Building | wikidata=Q97656920 | lastedit=2023-07-15 | content=A significant landmark hosting both the Senate of The Philippines and the Senate Museum. Art enthusiasts can see the GSIS Museo ng Sining (GSIS Museum of Art), which showcases a diverse collection of artworks by Filipino artists from the colonial to contemporary period. The museum not only displays historical pieces but also serves as an exhibition space for contemporary Filipino artists. }} * {{see | name=Philippine International Convention Center | alt= | url=https://picc.gov.ph/ | email= | address=PICC Complex | lat=14.55547 | long=120.98303 | directions= | phone=+63 287894789 | tollfree= | hours=9AM-5PM | price= | wikipedia=Philippine International Convention Center | wikidata=Q7185137 | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content=the venue of the 1994 Miss Universe Beauty Pageant in Manila. }} * {{see | name=Coconut Palace | alt=Tahanang Pilipino | url= | email= | address=F. Ma Guerrero Street, PICC Complex | lat=14.55532 | long=120.97991 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Coconut Palace | wikidata=Q3384923 | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content=Coconut lumber & shells were used for this octagonal government building & some of its furniture. }} * {{see | name=Manila Film Center | alt=Amazing Theater Show | url= | email= | address=Atang Dela Rama Street | lat=14.5507 | long=120.982 | directions= | phone=+63 8348871 | tollfree= | hours=8PM-9PM | price=Foreigner ₱1,500; local ₱700.00 | wikipedia=Manila Film Center | wikidata=Q12124512 | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Dessert Museum | alt= | url=http://www.thedessertmuseum.com/ | email= | address=Seaside Boulevard, Coral Way | lat=14.53114 | long=120.98072 | directions= | phone=+63 9662106010 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-10PM | price= | wikidata=Q65118656 | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content=Offbeat museum showcasing large, colorful sculptures of dessert items, plus sweets to sample. }} * {{see | name=SM MOA Eye | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/moaeyeofficial/ | email= | address=Seaside Blvd | lat=14.53292 | long=120.97924 | directions= | phone=+63 285560680 | tollfree= | hours=4PM-midnight| price= | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content=Riders of this huge Mall of Asia Ferris wheel with night lighting can take in city & bay views. }} * {{see | name=SM Mall of Asia Globe | alt= | url= | email= | address=MoA Globamaze, Globe Rotunda | lat=14.5353 | long=120.9842 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open 24 hours | price= | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content= }} * {{see | name=J.W. Roadway Bridge | alt= | url= | email= | address=J.W. Diokno Bridge, Libertad Channel | lat=14.54329 | long=120.98293 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open 24 hours | price=Free | lastedit=2023-08-24 | content=Go here during the morning and the afternoon for the stunning view of the area. }} * {{see | name=Two E-Com Center | alt= | url= | email= | address=Harbor Drive corner Bayshore Avenue | lat=14.53942 | long=120.98131 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open 24 hours | price=Free | lastedit=2023-08-24 | content=one of the beautiful buildings in the Philippines. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Mall of Asia Arena | alt=MOA Arena | url=http://www.mallofasia-arena.com | email= | address=Jose W. Diokno Boulevard | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Mall of Asia Arena | wikidata=Q6743990 | lastedit=2019-01-28 | content=A large outdoor arena that serves as an alternative venue for Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) games, most concerts, and theatrical performances. }} * {{do | name=SM By the Bay | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mall of Asia Complex | lat=14.53506 | long=120.97934 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price={{PHP|50-200}} | lastedit=2023-07-15 | content=This amusement park offers a delightful experience with a Ferris wheel, bumper cars, and other thrilling rides. Adjacent to it is an esplanade overlooking Manila Bay, providing a stunning view for witnessing the sunsets. Along the area, visitors will find a plethora of dining options to savor, making it an ideal destination for a fun-filled day with scenic views and delectable meals. }} * {{do | name=Star City | alt= | url=http://www.starcity.com.ph | email= | address=Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex | lat= | long= | directions=alight on LRT-1 Vito Cruz station | phone=+63 2 8832 3249 | tollfree= | hours=Th F M-10PM, Sa Su 1-10PM | price=Ride pass + Snow World = {{PHP|859}}; Ride pass only = {{PHP|699}} | wikipedia=Star City (amusement park) | wikidata=Q7600665 | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=The only indoor, air-conditioned amusement park in the Philippines, with over 30 attractions and rides including rollercoasters such as the Star Flyer - the first inverted coaster in the Philippines. Plus, enjoy the country's largest permanent ice entertainment area, Snow World. Within the amusement park complex, you can also find the Aliw and Star Theatres. }} * {{do | name=Manila Bay Breakwater | alt= | url= | email= | address=CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard | lat=14.5563 | long=120.9773 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open 24 hours | price=Free | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content=Stunning view of Manila Bay, Roxas Boulevard's Skyline, Bataan Province. }} ==Buy== ===Flea market=== * {{buy | name=Cartimar Shopping Center| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=14.55056| long=120.99650| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-07-15 | content= Similar to Manila's famous [[Divisoria]], this bustling shopping area specializes in selling imitation products of well-known brands, primarily shoes, often imported from China. Here, visitors can explore a plethora of shops offering a wide range of affordable options. Besides the imitation goods, the area also hosts pet stores and plant shops, catering to those in search of even the most exotic supplies. }} ===Malls=== *{{buy | name=SM Mall of Asia | alt=MOA | url=https://www.smsupermalls.com/mall-directory/sm-mall-of-asia/information/ | email= customercare@smsupermalls.com | address= | lat=14.535278 | long=120.982222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM-10PM | price= | wikipedia=SM Mall of Asia | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=This enormous mall was constructed on reclaimed land. As of mid-2026 Wikipedia ranks it the largest in the Philippines and sixth largest on Earth. It features a wide array of mid-range and high-end stores and restaurants. In addition to shopping, the mall offers various attractions, including a large arena that frequently hosts concerts, a science museum with numerous interactive exhibits, a convention center, and even an ice skating rink. Behind the mall, overlooking Manila Bay, you'll find the theme park 'MOA by the Bay'. }} * {{buy | name=Newport Mall | alt= | url=https://www.newportworldresorts.com/mall | email= | address=Newport Blvd | lat=14.51888 | long=121.01991 | directions= | phone=+63 2 7908-8888 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=This mall offers a high-end shopping experience with luxury shops and dining. Located within the mall is the Newport Performing Arts Theatre, known for its musicals and various events. Additionally, there is a casino for those who enjoy gaming. Surrounding the mall, you'll find prestigious hotels such as Marriott, Hilton, and Sheraton. Conveniently, these hotels are connected by a bridgeway, allowing you to move between them without having to step outside and experience the heat, as the entire area is air-conditioned for your comfort. }} * {{buy | name=DoubleDragon Plaza at DD Meridian Park | alt= | url=http://www.doubledragon.com.ph | email= | address=24 Diosdado Macapagal Blvd | lat=14.53621 | long=120.99038 | directions= | phone=+63 288294884 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-24 | content= }} * {{buy | name=MET Live | alt= | url=https://federalland.ph/commercial/met-live/ | email= | address=Metro Park, EDSA Extension corner Pres, Diosdado Macapagal Blvd | lat=14.53671 | long=120.98819 | directions= | phone=+63 285541062 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-24 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Blue Bay Walk | alt= | url=https://federalland.ph/commercial/blue-bay-walk/ | email= | address=Metropolitan Park Bldg., Macapagal Boulevard corner EDSA Extension | lat=14.53871 | long=120.98966 | directions= | phone=+63 9209014270 | tollfree= | hours=7AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-24 | content= }} ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Varona Vegetarian Health Foods | alt= | url= | email= | address=2008 Leveriza Street, Pasay City | lat=14.55458 | long=120.99563 | directions= | phone=+63 525 0389, +63 2 5367426 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-07-15 | content=A canteen that caters to vegetarians and vegans, offering plenty of delightful options. With a focus on plant-based cuisine, visitors can indulge in a variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Additionally, they also boast an extensive selection of high-quality mock-meats, providing a diverse range of meat alternatives for those seeking a flavorful plant-based experience. }} * {{eat | name=Seaside Dampa | alt= | url= | email= | address=Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard | lat=14.54543 | long=120.98762 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-07-15 | content=a popular seafood market, visitors can explore the market and purchase their desired seafood. For added convenience, there are nearby restaurants that offer cooking services, allowing you to have your freshly bought seafood prepared to your liking. Moreover, the area boasts some lively bars and KTV spots, providing ample entertainment options for a fun-filled evening after indulging in delicious seafood delights. }} * {{eat | name=The Singing Cooks & Waiters Atbp | alt= | url= | email= | address=Roxas Boulevard | lat=14.55176 | long=120.99031 | directions= | phone=+63 2 832 0658 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-3PM, 6-11PM | price= | lastedit=2023-07-15 | content=At this restaurant, you'll be immersed in an ambiance of joy and constant singing from the passionate cooks and waiters, creating a truly unique and lively atmosphere. Indulge in delicious Filipino cuisine that tantalizes the taste buds and showcases the country's rich culinary heritage. The staff goes above and beyond, frequently joining guests on the floor, singing, and dancing, epitomizing the genuine Filipino hospitality. }} * {{eat | name=Tramway Bayview Buffet | alt= | url=http://www.tramwaybuffet.com | email= | address=1600 Roxas Boulevard | lat=14.5572 | long=120.98853 | directions= | phone=+63 285360401 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-9:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Tropical Hut | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/tropicalhut/ | email= | address=Ground Floor, Star City, Vicente Sotto Street | lat=14.55687 | long=120.98501 | directions= | phone=+63 288318824 | tollfree= | hours=6AM-9:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Lee's Korean Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/LEEGA01 | email= | address=Manila Film Centre, Atang Dela Rama Street | lat=14.5506 | long=120.9816 | directions= | phone=+63 9158353590 | tollfree= | hours=Open 24 hours | price= | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Seascape Village | alt=Seafood Restaurant | url=https://www.seascapevillage.com.ph/ | email= | address=Atang Dela Rama corner Zoilo Hilario Streets | lat=14.55059 | long=120.98243 | directions= | phone=+63 286409955 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 3PM-Midnight, Sa-Su 11AM-Midnight | price= | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Buffet 101 | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/buffet101/ | email= | address=Bldg K, Seaside Blvd, San Miguel by the Bay, SM Mall of Asia Complex, Bldg K, SM by the Bay Seaside Blvd | lat=14.53119 | long=120.97933 | directions= | phone=+63 285563888 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Fiesta Buffet Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057228889692 | email= | address=Seaside Blvd | lat=14.53262 | long=120.97924 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Vikings Buffet Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.vikings.ph | email= | address=By the Bay, MOA Complex | lat=14.5406 | long=120.979 | directions= | phone=+63 9175653888 | tollfree= | hours=11am-10pm | price= | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Alba Restaurante Español | alt= | url=https://alba.com.ph | email= | address=Harbor Drive, Mall of Asia Complex, Prism Plaza, Two-E Com Center | lat=14.53938 | long=120.98177 | directions= | phone=+63 288088210 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=House of Wagyu Stone Grill | alt= | url=https://www.instagram.com/houseofwagyu/?hl=en | email= | address=4th Level, Two E-Com Center, 1300 Ocean Drive, Mall of Asia Complex | lat=14.53946 | long=120.98096 | directions= | phone=+63 285538437 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Burger King | alt= | url=https://www.burgerking.com.ph/ | email= | address=Two E-Com Ground Floor, Tower A, Two E-Com Center Harbor Drive, corner Palm Coast Ave Drive, | lat=14.53886 | long=120.9829 | directions= | phone=+63 288561662 | tollfree= | hours=Open 24 hours | price= | lastedit=2023-08-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=TGI Fridays | alt= | url=http://www.fridays.com.ph/ | email= | address=North Wing Entertainment Mall, SM Mall of Asia | lat=14.53525 | long=120.98001 | directions= | phone=+63 288219166 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Golden Bay Fresh Seafoods Restaurant | alt= | url=https://goldenbay.com.ph | email= | address=Lot 3 & 4, CBP, 1 Diosdado Macapagal Blvd | lat=14.53292 | long=120.99 | directions= | phone=+63 285567525 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-24 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=House Manila | alt= | url= | email= | address=B1, Holiday Inn Express | lat=14.5182 | long=121.01948 | directions= | phone=+63 936 770 1298 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 5PM-2AM | price= | lastedit=2023-07-15 | content=an electrifying nightlife experience at the nightclub within Newport World Resorts, conveniently located just steps away from the hotels. A popular choice among travelers staying in the area, this vibrant nightclub awaits you at the basement of the Holiday Inn Express. }} * {{drink | name=Ellipsis | alt= | url= | email=bookings.ellipsis@gmail.com | address=Menlo Street | lat=14.5591 | long=120.9938 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=6PM-3AM | price= | lastedit=2023-07-15 | content=This nightclub is a hotspot among college students, particularly those from the nearby De La Salle University. This vibrant venue comes alive on weekends and days leading up to holidays, drawing crowds seeking an exciting and lively nightlife experience. }} * {{drink | name=The Pub Manila | alt= | url= | email= | address=Atang Dela Rama Street | lat=14.5506 | long=120.9815 | directions=Manila Film Center | phone=+63 9569230460 | tollfree= | hours=5PM-2AM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content=LGBTQ+ friendly place. }} * {{drink | name=Hard Rock Cafe Manila | alt= | url=http://www.hardrock.com/cafes/manila | email= | address=Level 2, S Maison, Conrad Manila, Seaside Boulevard, 1300 Coral Way | lat=14.53258 | long=120.98007 | directions= | phone=+63 289909809 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-midnight | price= | wikipedia=Hard Rock Cafe | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content= }} * {{drink | name=TGI Fridays | alt= | url=http://www.fridays.com.ph/ | email= | address=North Wing Entertainment Mall, SM Mall of Asia | lat=14.53525 | long=120.98001 | directions= | phone=+63 288219166 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-24 | content= }} * {{drink | name=BLVCK CAFE SM by the Bay | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/blvckcafe/ | email=blvckcafe.ph@gmail.com | address=Seaside Boulevard | lat=14.53388 | long=120.97914 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-24 | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Pad | alt=Padi's Point | url= | email= | address=SM Mall of Asia, MOA, San Miguel by the Bay, SM Mall of Asia Seaside Blvd | lat=14.53371 | long=120.97921 | directions= | phone=+63 289869610 | tollfree= | hours=1-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-24 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Giligan's | alt= | url=https://giligansrestaurant.com/ | email= | address=San Miguel By The Bay, Seaside Boulevard | lat=14.53335 | long=120.97935 | directions= | phone=+63 9228629315 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-24 | content=with restaurant. }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Copacabana Apartments | alt= | url=http://www.copasuites-manila.com/ | email= | address=264 EDSA Extension | lat=14.53702 | long=120.99458 | directions= | phone=+63 2 8851 8888 | tollfree= | fax=+63 2-831-4344 | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From US$50 | content=Copacabana Apartment Manila Hotel is the pioneer in the serviced apartment industry. Established in the early 1970s, this Manila hotel carries with it a long history of quality service and dedication to excellence. Light sleepers should be warned: the EDSA Extension is one of the major highways in the southern Metro area and motor traffic will be audible even on the top floors, particularly on weekends. }} * {{sleep | name=The Heritage Hotel Manila | alt= | url=https://www.millenniumhotels.com/en/manila/the-heritage-hotel-manila/ | email= | address=Roxas Blvd corner EDSA, | lat=14.53675 | long=120.9933 | directions= | phone=+63 2 8854 8888 | tollfree= | fax=+63 2 8548833 | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= | content=A five-star deluxe hotel, it is minutes away from the international and domestic airports, business hubs; convention centres and SM Mall of Asia, the largest shopping mall in the Philippines. }} * {{sleep | name=Kabayan Hotel Pasay | alt= | url=https://www.kabayanhotel.com.ph/ | email= | address=#2878 Zamora St. corner Edsa, Rotonda | lat=14.53807 | long=121.00216 | directions= | phone=+63 2 702-2700 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From {{PHP|1175}} | content=It offers 253 air-conditioned rooms, all equipped with cable TV, private toilet and bath, telephone, and bedside control panel. Some of its facilities and services are restaurants, function/meeting rooms, business center with Internet facility, room service & laundry, and massage service. Near Metro Point Mall. }} * {{sleep | name=Midas Hotel and Casino | alt=formerly Hyatt Regency Manila | url=http://www.midashotelandcasino.com/ | email= | address=2702 Roxas Boulevard | lat=14.53975 | long=120.99287 | directions= | phone=+63 2 902 0100 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From {{PHP|4220}} | wikipedia=Midas Hotel and Casino | content=A/C rooms equipped with cable television, private balcony, shower with bathub, hair dryer, phone and wi-fi internet access. Some of its facilities and services are airport and city transportation service, cafe and parking. }} * {{sleep | name=Park, Bed, and Breakfast | alt= | url=https://parkbedandbreakfast.com/ | email= | address=733 Woods Street corner EDSA | lat=14.53936 | long=121.00979 | directions= | phone=+63 2 8894 2593 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From {{PHP|1021}} | content=It offers 75 affordably cozy rooms, all equipped with air-conditioner, cable TV, mini-bar, Internet access, coffee/tea maker, private toilet and bath, and a telephone. Some of its facilities and services are airport and city transfers, business center, car rental, restaurant, massage service, and valet parking. }} * {{sleep | name=Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila | alt=formerly the Westin Philippine Plaza | url=https://www.sofitelmanila.com/ | email=H6308@sofitel.com | address=CCP Complex, Roxas Blvd | lat=14.553111 | long=120.980444 | directions= | phone=+632-8-573-5555 | tollfree= | fax=+632-832-6932 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q28402252 | content=At a bayside area within the Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex. }} * {{sleep | name=Lime Resort Manila | alt= | url=http://lime.ph/ | email= | address=Seascape Village, CCP Complex, Atang Dela Rama Street | lat=14.54992 | long=120.98062 | directions= | phone=+63 9701111117 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price= | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=TRYP by Wyndham Mall of Asia Manila | alt= | url=https://tryp-manila.ph/ | email= | address=MOA Complex, Seaside Boulevard, Corner J.W. Diokno Blvd | lat=14.54218 | long=120.98273 | directions= | phone=+63 288408000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Conrad Manila | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/mnlmbci-conrad-manila/ | email= | address=Seaside Boulevard, Coral Way | lat=14.53165 | long=120.98036 | directions= | phone=+63 288339999 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price= | wikipedia=Conrad Manila | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Microtel by Wyndham Mall of Asia | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/microtel/manila-philippines/microtel-by-wyndham-manila-mall-of-asia/overview | email= | address=Coralway Avenue corner Seaside Boulevard Mall of Asia Complex | lat=14.53054 | long=120.98072 | directions= | phone=+63 284033333 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Henry Hotel Manila | alt= | url=http://manila.thehenryhotel.com/ | email= | address=2680 Compound, 2680 F.B. Harrison Street | lat=14.54102 | long=120.99595 | directions= | phone=+63 288078888 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Citadines Bay City Manila | alt= | url=https://www.discoverasr.com/en/citadines/philippines/citadines-bay-city-manila | email= | address=Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard corner Coral Way | lat=14.53207 | long=120.98831 | directions= | phone=+63 288668100 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= | wikipedia=The Ascott Limited | lastedit=2023-08-24 | content= }} ==Go next== [[Parañaque]], another city, is not too far from the airport. {{routebox |placename=Pasay (by car) | image1=AH26 (N1) sign.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Cubao]] | minorl1=[[Makati]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=END | minorr1= | link1=Asian Highway 26 | caption1= | image2=N61 (Philippines).svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=N | majorl2= Becomes [[Image:AH26 (N120) sign.svg|25px|link=]] | minorl2= | directionr2=S | majorr2=Becomes [[Image:E3 (Philippines).svg|25px|link=]]to [[Las Piñas]] | minorr2='''[[Parañaque]]''' | link2= | caption2= | image3=AH26 (N120) sign.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=N | majorl3=[[Manila/Ermita|Ermita]] | minorl3=[[Manila/Malate|Malate]] | directionr3=S | majorr3=Becomes [[Image:N61 (Philippines).svg|25px|link=]] | minorr3= | link3=Asian Highway 26 | caption3= | image4=N170 (Philippines).svg | imagesize4=22 | directionl4=N | majorl4=[[Manila/Ermita|Ermita]] | minorl4=[[Manila/Malate|Malate]] | directionr4=S | majorr4=END | minorr4= | link4= | caption4= | image5=N190 (Philippines).svg | imagesize5=22 | directionl5=W | majorl5=END | minorl5= | directionr5=E | majorr5=[[Makati]] | minorr5=Jct <small>[[Manila/Paco|←]]</small> [[Image:N145 (Philippines).svg|22px|link=]] <small>→</small> | link5= | caption5= }} {{routebox |placename=Pasay (by rapid transit) | image1=Manila Line 1 WV icon.svg | imagesize1=100 | directionl1=S | majorl1= END | minorl1='''[[Parañaque|Baclaran]]''' | directionr1=N | majorr1=[[Manila/Ermita|Ermita]] | minorr1=[[Manila/Malate|Malate]] | link1= | caption1= | image2=Manila MRT Line 3 WV icon.svg | imagesize2=100 | directionl2=S | majorl2= END | minorl2= | directionr2=N | majorr2=[[Cubao]] | minorr2=[[Makati]] (interchange with <small>[[Manila/Paco|←]]</small> [[Image:PNR Metro Commuter Line WV icon.svg|100px|link=]] <small>[[Taguig|→]]</small> | link2= | caption2= }} {{outlinecity}} {{IsPartOf|Metro Manila}} {{geo|14.55|121}} ig743nppt1v5r7ox8h3wthmwasxa988 0 28854 5288955 5279634 2026-06-07T00:00:08Z ~2026-33540-23 2419298 /* Understand */ 5288955 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Doha (Qatar) banner.jpg|caption=A view of traditional dhow boats in front of the glimmering Doha Corniche|pgname=Qatar}} {{2026 Middle East warningbox}} '''Qatar''' ([[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]: قطر; pronounced ''kut-ar'' or ''cutter'') is a rich Arab state occupying a small peninsula extending into the Persian Gulf to the north of [[Saudi Arabia]]. Many come to the Middle East seeking the mystic, traditional life of the Bedouins, wandering the desert with their life's belongings on a camel's back. Although tradition is still an important part of the Qatari ethos, the country has well and truly moved into the twenty-first century with the piercing glass skyscrapers of [[Doha]], a booming trade sector and a new-found place in international diplomacy. Qatar offers a unique blend of cultural authenticity and modern luxury, making it a major tourism hub in the region. ==Regions== Qatar is administratively divided into eight municipalities, with the capital of each municipality being its eponymous city. {{mapframe|height=|width=250|25.30573311778813|51.15556846541998|zoom=8}} {{Mapshape|title=Ad Dawhah|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q3861|fill=#e3e989}} {{Mapshape|title=Al Rayyan|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q311272|fill=#b383b3}} {{Mapshape|title=Al Daayen|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q310786|fill=#d69c4b}} {{Mapshape|title=Al Wakrah|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q310893|fill=#0000ff}} {{Mapshape|title=Al Khor|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q1156471|fill=#d76972}} {{Mapshape|title=Umm Salal|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q990414|fill=#71b37b}} {{Mapshape|title=Al Shamal|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q310872|fill=#4f93c0}} {{Mapshape|title=Al-Shahaniya|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q12188815|fill=#FFC0CB}} {{Regionlist | region1name=Ad Dawhah | region1color=#e3e989 | region1items=[[Doha]] | region1description=Comprises the capital Doha, the Industrial Area, an exclave surrounded by Al Rayyan municipality, and the Wholesale Market Area, another exclave bound by Al Rayyan and Al Wakrah municipalities | region2name=Al Rayyan | region2color=#b383b3 | region2items=Al Rayyan City | region2description=Al Rayyan City is effectively a suburb of Doha, and covered as part of that article | region3name=Al Daayen | region3color=#d69c4b | region3items=Al Daayen City, Lusail | region3description=Lusail is effectively a suburb of Doha and covered as part of that article | region4name=Al Wakrah | region4color=#0000ff | region4items=[[Al Wakrah|Al Wakrah City]], [[Mesaieed]] | region4description= | region5name=Al Khor | region5color=#d76972 | region5items=[[Al Khor|Al Khor City]] | region5description= | region6name=Umm Salal | region6color=#71b37b | region6items=[[Umm Salal Mohammed]] | region6description= | region7name=Al Shamal | region7color=#4f93c0 | region7items=[[Al Shamal|Al Shamal City]] | region7description= | region8name=Al-Shahaniya | region8color=#FFC0CB | region8items=[[Al Shahaniyah|Al-Shahaniya City]], [[Dukhan]] | region8description= }} ==Cities== [[File:Qatar regions map.png|thumb|300px]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Doha]]|wikidata=Q3861}} – capital and main economic hub. We also cover the neighbouring cities of '''Al Rayyan''' and '''Lusail''' as part of Doha as they are effectively part of the urban area of Doha. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Al Khor]]|wikidata=Q311717}} – northern city with a population of some 36,000, close to Ras Laffan LNG (liquified natural gas) terminal * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Al Shamal]]|wikidata=Q310872}} – this article covers the wider area of the northern municipality of Madinat ash Shamal * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Al Shahaniyah]]|wikidata=Q12188815}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Al Wakrah]]|wikidata=Q310893}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Dukhan]]|wikidata=Q3296633}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mesaieed]]|wikidata=Q1069900}} – industrial town south of Doha, and 25 km south of Wakra, with recreational activities on the coast, including the sand dunes of Khor Al Udeid (the Inland Sea) * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Umm Salal Mohammed]]|wikidata=Q3298627}} ==Other destinations== [[File:Fort Zubara, Qatar (2371639734).jpg|thumb|Zubarah Fort]] * {{marker|name=[[Zubarah]]|wikidata=}} - the ruins of a deserted city and a fort built in 1938 by Sheikh Abdu'llah bin Qasim Al-Thani ==Understand== Qatar has the world's third-largest natural-gas reserves, behind only Russia and Iran. Its oil reserves are similar in size to those of the [[United States of America]] but will last much longer because its production levels are only one-sixth the rate of that country. Its strategic position has also led to the explosive growth of its flag carrier Qatar Airways, which has turned [[Doha]] into one of the world's busiest air hubs. The Qatari government has also been diversifying its economy away from its traditional reliance on oil and natural gas, and has turned the country into one of the main education hubs of the Middle East. By most accounts its citizens are the wealthiest in the world, and the capital Doha and its suburbs sport an endless array of luxury shopping malls with everything the uber-rich could possibly want. Despite this wealth, Qatar is also heavily reliant on a vast underclass of poorly-paid migrant workers who are often horribly mistreated with no legal recourse against employer abuse. Because its Al Jazeera TV satellite networks broadcast throughout the globe in Arabic and English, Qatar is hugely influential despite its relatively small size. For its strategic location on the Persian Gulf and pearl-diving heritage, Qatar's marine tourism and industry continues to expand its marine reserves and upgrade port regulations to offer world-class aquatic experiences. ===History=== There is evidence that shows the Qatar peninsula had been inhabited by Bedouin and Canaanite tribes from as early as 4000 BCE. While the museum houses a variety of artifacts including spearheads and pieces of pottery, there is little left of the structures that may have once existed. The Al-Jassassiya rock carvings north of Doha give some idea of how these tribes may have lived. More recently, some sandstone buildings and mosques were discovered, piquing the interest of archaeologists as they seek to discover what still lays beneath the sand. Emerging out of ancient history, Qatar was dominated by various Western and Eastern empires. The Ormus used the peninsula as a trading post and military port, until the Portuguese were able to extend their rule over the region. Neighbouring [[Bahrain]] eventually annexed the peninsula, until rebel movements and [[Britain|British]] intervention again made Qatar independent. Under pressure, Qatar became a part of the Ottoman Empire in 1871 before becoming a British protectorate at the close of World War I. Independence was declared from Britain peacefully in 1971. Since the accession of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani to the throne in 1995 after deposing his father in a coup, Qatar has transformed itself from a poor British protectorate noted mainly for its pearling industry into an independent state with significant oil and natural gas revenues, which enable Qatar to have the highest GDP per capita in the world. Qatar has become deeply involved in world affairs under the royal family, offering support in peacekeeping missions and UN-mandated wars such as that in the Gulf in 1991. Qatar also plays host to various world conferences, including those of the World Trade Organisation, the UN Climate Convention and various mediation bodies. It leaped onto the world stage with the development of the popular Al Jazeera news network and expansion of Qatar Airways to most of the world's continents, and is rapidly gaining interest among foreigners as it hosted the 2006 Asian Games and the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Since the rule of Sheikh Hamad, Qatar has also tried to move away from the Saudi sphere of influence in favor of a more independent foreign policy, resulting in tensions with its neighbors. ===People and culture=== Qatar's population can be broadly divided into three different groups. Qatari culture is largely based on the traditional Islamic Bedouin culture, and you will often see Qataris walking around in the traditional clothing. Men wear white clothing known as the thobe, while women wear black clothing known as the abaya. Today, Qatari citizens only comprise about 10% of the population. Slavery was historically integral to this society, and its legacy survives in the form a vast underclass of underpaid and often horribly mistreated migrant workers, mostly from [[South Asia]] and the [[Philippines]], who toil under gruelling conditions for their Qatari and Western masters, and comprise the vast majority of Qatar's population. The third group of people in Qatar are the Western expatriates, who are often used to project an appearance of modernity and progressivism onto to the outside world, often whitewashing the exploitation that this society is built on. Naturally, the three groups tend to clash, and informal segregation exists in this society, mostly designed to prevent foreign workers from mingling with Qataris. Compared to its main rival the United Arab Emirates, Qatar is somewhat more conservative, though it is generally more liberal that the other Arab Gulf states. While the [[Doha]] metropolitan area is modern and cosmopolitan, and is increasingly emerging as a rival to [[Dubai]] and [[Abu Dhabi]], locals continue to live a more traditional lifestyle in the smaller towns and rural areas, and expect behavior in accordance with it. ===Geography=== {{quickbar| location=LocationQatar.png}} Qatar is a peninsula that juts into the Persian Gulf. Most of the country consists of low barren plain covered with dunes. In the southeast of Qatar lies the Khor al Adaid, an area with sand dunes and an inlet from the Persian Gulf. ===Government=== Qatar is an absolute monarchy headed by the emir, who is from the Al-Thani family. While the country has rapidly modernised under the leadership of former emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, questions remain on the treatment of migrant workers from other parts of Asia, which many human rights groups describe as exploitative and slave-like. As in most other countries in the region, calls for reform and more democracy on the one hand, and a rising Islamist movement calling for a "purer" (i.e. more fundamentalist) interpretation of the Qur'an and Islam on the other hand, are a major factor in domestic politics. ===Economy=== Oil is a cornerstone of the Qatari economy; it used to account for more than 30% of GDP, roughly 80% of export earnings and 58% of government revenues. Proven oil reserves of 15 billion barrels should ensure continued output at current levels for at least the next 20 years. Oil and gas have given Qatar the highest GDP per capita by most studies. Qatar's proved reserves of natural gas exceed 7 trillion m³, more than 11% of the world's total, making it the third largest reserve in the world. Production and export of natural gas are becoming increasingly important. Qatar manages to post very high surpluses each year, and escaped the Global Financial Crisis relatively unscathed. In addition to the energy sector, Qatar also exports petrochemicals, cement and steel. Doha has a rapidly growing financial sector that is cementing itself as one of the centres of trade and finance within the Middle East. The Qatari government has also outlined its plan to boost tourism and media businesses on the peninsula, creating new sectors to further increase Qatar's profile. In addition, many foreign universities have set up outposts in Qatar, transforming Qatar into one of the main education hubs of the Middle East. As result of its oil and natural gas wealth, Qatar provides its citizens with one of the world's most comprehensive welfare states despite not levying any income tax on them. However, the country's large and often poorly-paid immigrant workforce is not given access to the welfare state. ===Climate=== {{climate chart |Doha |14.8 |22.6 |11.2 |15.8 |24.0 |10.6 |18.5 |27.7 |17.1 |23.0 |33.2 |6.0 |28.0 |39.4 |1.2 |30.5 |42.2 |0.0 |32.1 |42.4 |0.0 |31.8 |41.4 |0.0 |29.7 |39.2 |0.0 |26.5 |35.6 |2.8 |22.0 |29.7 |10.8 |17.2 |24.8 |17.6 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Doha]] |description= }} The climate of Qatar can be described as arid and unforgiving. In the summer, which runs from May through to September, the days are characterised by intense and humid heat, averaging 35°C but not unknown to peak at 50°C. In the winter, October to April, the days are much more bearable at about 20-25°C, with a nice cool evening down to around 15°C. If the heat is to be avoided, the best months to visit would be December, January, and/or February. Rainfall and storms in Qatar are extremely rare, forcing locals to retrieve water from newly-constructed desalination plants. However, huge sandstorms that envelop the peninsula are common in the summertime. These can be hazardous if not under shelter, and will descend the country into darkness as it blots out the hot sun above. There may also be disruptions to transportation and other services. ===Read=== * '''Allen J. Fromherz''', ''Qatar: A Modern History''. * '''Abdul Aziz Al Mahmoud''', ''The Corsair''. A debut novel about 19th-century piracy in the Persian Gulf, and the very first novel by a Qatari author. * '''Sophia Al-Maria''', ''The Girl Who Fell to Earth: A Memoir''. Written by a Qatari-American based in Doha, this is an entertaining account of a childhood spent trying to bridge the divide between Bedouin and American cultures. ===Visitor information === * [https://visitqatar.com/ Visit Qatar] website ==Talk== '''[[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]''' is the official language of Qatar although the majority of residents do not speak it. Expatriate workers from other parts of Asia and Africa far outnumber Qatari citizens, particularly in Doha. '''English''' is the ''lingua franca'', and most Qataris speak it to communicate with the foreign workers who work for them. Most retail workers are South Asians or Filipinos, not Qataris. Nevertheless, if you can learn to speak some Arabic, it would undoubtedly impress the locals. Qataris speak the Gulf dialect of Arabic. In Standard Arabic, the "Q" in Qatar is typically pronounced as a "k" but more at the back of the throat. That said, in the local Gulf dialect of Arabic, the initial consonant is usually pronounced like a hard "g", and the first "a" vowel is usually reduced to schwa. You may encounter foreign labourers speaking diverse languages such as [[Hindi]], [[Urdu]] and [[Tagalog]]. While you can get by just fine in Qatar with only English under your belt, your hosts and any other locals you may meet will be very impressed and appreciative if you can recite a few basic Arabic phrases. ==Get in== ===Entry requirements=== Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries ([[Bahrain]], [[Kuwait]], [[Oman]], [[Saudi Arabia]] and the [[United Arab Emirates]]) do not require a visa to enter Qatar, and may use National ID Cards to enter the country. They may also stay indefinitely with no restrictions including on employment. Citizens of [[Antigua and Barbuda]], [[Argentina]], [[Austria]], the [[Bahamas]], [[Belgium]], [[Bulgaria]], [[Croatia]], [[Cyprus]], [[Czech Republic]], [[Denmark]], [[Dominican Republic]], [[Estonia]], [[Finland]], [[France]], [[Germany]], [[Greece]], [[Hungary]], [[Iceland]], [[Italy]], [[Latvia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Lithuania]], [[Luxembourg]], [[Malaysia]], [[Malta]], the [[Netherlands]], [[Norway]], [[Poland]], [[Portugal]], [[Romania]], [[Serbia]], [[Seychelles]], [[Slovakia]], [[Slovenia]], [[Spain]], [[Sweden]], [[Switzerland]], [[Turkey]] and [[Ukraine]] can visit Qatar without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Citizens of [[Andorra]], [[Australia]], [[Azerbaijan]], [[Belarus]], [[Bolivia]], [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]], [[Brazil]], [[Brunei]], [[Canada]], [[Chile]], [[China]] (mainland), [[Colombia]], [[Costa Rica]], [[Cuba]], [[Ecuador]], [[Falkland Islands]], [[French Guiana]], [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]], [[Guyana]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Indonesia]], [[Ireland]], [[Japan]], [[Kazakhstan]], [[Lebanon]], [[Macau]], the [[Maldives]], [[Mexico]], [[Moldova]], [[Monaco]], [[Montenegro]], [[New Zealand]], [[North Macedonia]], [[Panama]], [[Paraguay]], [[Peru]], [[Russia]], [[San Marino]], [[Singapore]], [[South Africa]], [[South Korea]], [[Suriname]], [[Taiwan]], [[United Kingdom]] (British citizen only), [[Uruguay]], [[Vatican City]] and [[Venezuela]] may visit Qatar without a visa for up to 30 days. Citizens of the [[United States of America|United States]] may visit for up to 90 days without a visa. Citizens of [[India]], [[Iran]], [[Pakistan]], [[Thailand]] and [[Ukraine]] may also visit for up to 30 days without a visa provided they have a confirmed hotel booking through '''[https://www.discoverqatar.qa/mandatory-hotels-for-visa-on-arrival Discover Qatar]''' for their entire duration of stay. Booking your hotel through any other method will require you to obtain a visa in advance. Citizens of all nationalities who hold valid residence permits for the [[United Kingdom]], the [[United States of America|United States]], [[Canada]], [[Australia]], [[New Zealand]], the [[Europe|Schengen Area]], or GCC countries, or valid visas for the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or the Schengen Area may visit without a visa for up to 30 days. Regardless of nationality, travellers who are in transit through Hamad International Airport do not require a visa if they depart within 24 hours and remain within the airport. Free transit visas, which are valid for up to 96 hours (4 days) and allow travellers to briefly visit Qatar, are also issued to all passengers of any nationality transiting through Hamad International Airport, provided that they travel with Qatar Airways. For those needing visas, tourist visas are available online through the [http://portal.www.gov.qa/wps/portal/services/touristVisas/jointtouristvisa eVisa system], and you will need to have a sponsor from within Qatar. Visas are issued within four working days if all documents are submitted, and are valid for a stay period up to 30 days in Qatar. If you do not require a visa, you may opt to apply for an ETA, which will allow you to use the automated immigration gates on arrival. Qatar scrapped the previous requirement for those in the country on work visas to obtain an exit visa to leave for most people in 2020. Exit visas are now only required in very limited circumstances. See the [[Qatar#Work|Work]] section for more details. Qatar officially accepts Israeli passports (with the necessary visas) and passports with evidence of visits to Israel. ===By plane=== Entry by air into Qatar has boomed in the last decade. Most people visiting the country will enter via '''[[Hamad International Airport]]''' ({{IATA|DOH}}) near [[Doha]]. State-owned flag carrier '''[http://www.qatarairways.com Qatar Airways]''' has secured a huge network of flights operating out of its hub in [[Doha]] to 124 destinations. In fact, it is of the very few airports in the world with non-stop services to all inhabited continents. Other major airlines also serve the airport, usually running a route between Doha and their own hub in the base country. A taxi fare from the airport has a default tariff of QR&nbsp;25. ===By car=== The only land route to Qatar is from [[Saudi Arabia]]. There are plans for a major bridge to link Qatar with neighbouring Bahrain, although these are constantly delayed. Travel by car is not recommended. The roads between Qatar and other major cities/countries are poor. If you are travelling during the day, be cautious of speeding cars and trucks. ''Always'' wear your seat belt and do not speed over 50 mph (80 km/h). Travelling at night is risking your life, with poor visibility and semi-suicidal drivers. === By bus === Bus routes from Saudi Arabia (mostly used by men only) were disrupted in the 2017–2021 diplomatic crisis. Customs can take up to 4 hours especially at night. You will not be treated nearly as well as if you fly into Doha. Flying in costs only slightly more than a bus ticket. ===By boat=== There are no specific boat routes, but there are commercial freight boats coming into Doha from all over the world, as well as small commercial boats coming in from [[Dubai]] and [[Iran]]. ==Get around== Public transport comes in three forms in Qatar: buses, taxis and limousines, all of which are owned by government-owned Mowasalat (Karwa) apart from some private limousine companies. Within the capital, Doha, there's also a metro. === By bus === [[File:Doha Karwa public bus.jpg|thumbnail|Public Karwa bus]] The bus service began in October 2005. Ticketing is handled using a [https://www.mowasalat.com/English/Our-Services/Service-Catalog/KARWA-Smart-Card Karwa Smartcard], which comes in three types: * '''Smartcard Classic''' - Initial fee of QR30 with QR20 credit included. Journey prices vary, costing QR2.50 for a short ride. You must tap-in when you get on the bus, and tap-off when you get off to avoid a default QR30 penalty. Can be purchased in various retailers as listed on the Karwa website, but not on board buses. * '''Smartcard 24 Limited''' - An initial fee of QR10 allows 2 trips on the bus (one return trip) within 24 hours of first tapping-in. You only need to tap-in, and ''should not'' tap-off. Can be bought on board the bus for travel in Greater Doha only. * '''Smartcard 24 Unlimited''' - An initial fee of QR20 gives the user unlimited travel throughout Qatar within 24 hours of first tapping-in. Again, there is no necessity to tap-off. Can be bought aboard the bus. A large number of routes criss-cross the country, with the network stretching north to Al Khor, west to Dukhan, and as far south as Mesaieed. Timetable and ticketing information can be obtained by calling +974 4436 6053. === By taxi or limousine === [[File:Qatar, Dukhan Highway.JPG|thumbnail|Highway from Doha to Dukhan]] The government-owned Mowasalat also runs the taxi and limousine service. The taxis are easily spotted due to their uniform light blue colour with a maroon top. The initial fare on the meter is QR&nbsp;4, with an extra QR&nbsp;1.20 per kilometre within Doha and QR&nbsp;1.80 anywhere outside the capital. A trip to or from the airport has a single tariff of QR&nbsp;25. To ensure you are not scammed, some precautions should be noted: * For journeys within Doha the tariff should be set to '1', and those at night or outside of Doha should be set to '0'. * Check the meter is not tampered; signs of a tampered meter include tape and strips of paper around the outside. * By law, if a driver refuses to use the meter, the ride should be free. * There are occasional reports of unruly drivers locking the taxi doors or refusing to open the trunk until extra payment is made. If such an occurrence happens to you, attempt to leave the car. If not possible, calling the police on 999 should cause the driver to become very cooperative. The demand for taxis exceeds the supply and waiting times can vary greatly. Attempting to obtain one during morning business hours requires at least 24 hours notice, although even in practice this is unreliable, as the scheduled taxi often doesn't show up. At other times, it may take 90 minutes or more to get an on-call taxi, and hailing one on the street may be impossible much of the time. The only places where you are guaranteed to find a taxi are major malls, the airport and international hotels. Taxis can be booked and summoned by calling +974 4458 8888. An alternative to taxis and buses would be to use a limousine service, which will send an unmarked limo car to your location. They are expensive, but luxurious taxis with an initial fee of QR&nbsp;20, but do not always feature a meter. International limousine services, such as [[Uber]], [[Careem]], and [[Lyft]] are available in Qatar. The apps allow for quick and easy summoning of a driver. Occasionally, a local driver may offer you a lift if they see you waiting on the side of the road. It is customary to offer some money at the end, though usually they will refuse to take it. A driver offering a lift will slow down and flash their headlights at you; they can be summoned with a wave in response. Although the practice is safe, it is not advisable for solo women. === By metro === A metro opened in 2019 serving Doha and its suburbs. You can travel from point A to B for QR2 per person per trip or buy a day pass for QR6. However, if you are planning to use the metro very frequently, you can buy a metro card for QR30. Free metro link bus services are available from/to metro stations to/from nearby destinations. The metro opens at 06:00 and closes at 23:00. === By car === You can hire a car for about US$20 per day with local car rental companies. Plenty of them are located at the airport and Doha city centre, or else ask your hotel for some advice. ==See== For a comparatively small peninsula in the [[Middle East]], there is quite a lot to see in Qatar. === Historical monuments === [[File:Jebel Jassassiyeh boat carving?.jpg|thumbnail|Rock carvings at Al-Jassassiya]] The history-seeker will not be disappointed, with an assortment of ruins, cave art and museums to keep the mind wandering. Most famous is the archaeological site of [[Zubarah]], where there are the remains of what was once a thriving port city. An early '''20th-century fort''' on the site still stands as a museum, a testament to a bygone era. The [[Al-Jassassiya]] '''rock carvings''' in north-eastern Qatar are a remarkable site of 900 petroglyphs that are believed to date back to ancient tribes who inhabited the peninsula during the 15th century BCE. A number of forts and towers exist around the country; most of them have also been restored as museums. The '''Barzan Towers''' stand at the edge of the town of [[Umm Salal Mohammed]], erected to safeguard the country's rainwater basin. Another defensive watchtower stands in [[Al Khor]]. The popular '''Al Koot Fort''' is located in the heart of the capital Doha, with a wide variety of traditional handicrafts within. Others structures include Marwab Fort, Al Thughab Fort, Al Shaghab Fort, Al Rakiyat Fort, Al Wajbah Fort and the ruins of Al Yussoufiya Fort, Umm Al Maa Fort and Al Ghuwair Castle. The '''National Museum''' is housed in an impressive "desert rose stone" shaped building. There are a number of other museums across the country that specialise in history. The '''Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum''' in [[Al Shahaniya]] is the Sheikh's collection of relics, artefacts and art from Qatar, the Middle East and around the world. === Culture and tradition === === Nature and the land === === Modern attractions === [[File:The Pearl at Night (5540218048).jpg|thumbnail|Yachts docked at the Pearl]] * The Museum of Islamic Art, Doha * Souq Waqif: the traditional old marketplace of Qatar. Has many good restaurants, especially at night time. Also sells many national products - bargaining is recommended. Closed from 12:30 until 15:30, although in practice most shops don't reopen until 16:00 * The Pearl: a man-made island connected to Doha by a bridge. You can find a wide variety of restaurants and shops, mainly high-end. * Villaggio Mall: a spectacular Venetian style shopping mall with a canal and gondolas as well. A huge variety of shops from casual to luxury. * Mathaf: The Arab museum of modern art * Katara: "Cultural village" which is home to high-end international and Arab restaurants, a high-end shopping mall, a beach, an opera house, an amphitheatre, and an exhibition hall. It holds many cultural events. See the two small mosques. * Aqua park: Aquatic Funfair. * Qatar Mall: A huge mall with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. * Aspire park: A park next to Villaggio mall, it is reserved for families only on the weekend, visiting in the winter months is recommended. * MIA park: A park next to the museum of Islamic art, single people are allowed in, visiting in the winter months is recommended. ==Do== * A great activity for tourists is simply to experience the nation's tradition. The traditional Qatari way of life was simple: Bedouin nomads wandering the desert with their camels, and fisherman scouring the ocean floor for pearls to trade. While these two lifestyles are mostly extinct on the peninsula, the government has taken some measures to preserve their traditions for future generations to experience. * Many tour companies run '''desert expeditions''' by both four-wheel drive and camel. Some may just be for the day, while others can go for up to a week with trekkers camping overnight in a Bedouin tent. The one day "dune-bashing" tours simply involve speeding over the desert's endless dunes in a Landcruiser. * The '''pearling''' tradition has existed as far back as 2000 BCE, when Mesopotamian records speak of shining "fish eyes" imported from the Gulf region. While the industry went bust after the discovery of oil, a large festival is held each year to celebrate the tradition. The '''Qatar Marine Festival''' in Doha often includes a huge sea expedition by various ''dhow'' boats to find oyster beds on the ocean floor. Other activities at the festival include a musical performance, a seal show, a sandsculptor's expedition and a water, light and sound show. * Many companies offer '''shipwreck diving''' for tourists, which can be organised from Doha. Popular diving sites include the man-made Old Club Reef and New Club Reef just out of [[Messaied]], Qapco Reef, the M.O. Shipwreck and the Al Sharque Shipwreck. * Other popular '''watersports''' include kite-surfing, driving jet-skis, surfing and chartered fishing expeditions. * '''Football:''' Qatar will host the [https://www.the-afc.com/en/national/afc_asian_cup.html 2023 AFC Asian Cup] for men's national soccer teams, with 24 nations participating. It's held 12 Jan - 10 Feb 2024 to avoid searing summer temperatures. The venues are expected to be those used in Nov / Dec 2022 when Qatar hosted the FIFA World Cup. * '''[[Formula One]]''' or Grand Prix motor races that started in 2021 are held in November at Lusail Circuit 45 km north of Doha. It is always a night Grand Prix. ==Buy== Qatar can be expensive (an espresso in National Library is QR15), but it can also be very cheap (a good meal in a local restaurant is the same price). Touristy areas tend to be more expensive. Petrol is cheap. Prices are generally lower than in the United Arab Emirates. Keep in mind that the luxury shopping malls designate Fridays, weekends and public holidays as "family day" in order to prevent the migrant workers, who are mostly male and in Qatar without their families, from mingling with Qataris on their days off. While in theory "family day" is designated for women and families, and single men are supposed to be banned regardless of race or nationality, in practice Qatari and white men are admitted to these venues with no problem, while the restriction is only enforced for non-Qatari and non-white men. ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Qatari riyal | currencyCode=QR | date=January 2026 | USD=3.64 (fixed) | EUR=4.3 | GBP=4.9 | SAR=0.97 (fixed) | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/qar-qatari-riyal XE.com] }} [[File:Souq Waqif with Qataris in foreground.jpg|350px|thumb|The splendidly-restored Souq Waqif of Doha.]] The national currency is the '''Qatari riyal''', denoted by the symbol "'''ر.ق'''" or "'''QR'''" (ISO code: '''QAR'''). The riyal is pegged to the US dollar at the rate of QR3.64 to US$1. One riyal is divided into 100 dirhams, with coins issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 dirhams. The riyal is available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200 and 500 riyals. A new series of banknotes marked with a Qatari flag on the back was rolled out in 2020, and older notes are no longer accepted by merchants. Most banks will convert old notes into new notes free of charge, but the process can be time-consuming. It is fairly straightforward to change major world currencies within Qatar, along with the currencies of Bahrain, Saudia Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Rates are fairly similar between banks and moneychangers, with a large concentration of moneychangers near the Gold Souq of Doha. Banks are abundant across Doha, with branches in the larger cities as well. Traveler's cheques are accepted by the major banks. ===Shopping=== Qatar has many malls in which regular international brands such as H&M, Zara, and Mango. The biggest malls are Mall of Qatar, Festival City, and City Center. Middle Eastern and local brands are also present. There is no sales tax in Qatar, but prices are generally not cheap due to the high standard of living. The Pearl has luxurious brands from all over the world. It is the premium luxury shopping destination in Qatar. Blue Salon has huge sales twice a year where you can pick up Armani, Valentino and Cerutti suits for half price. There are many things to buy here but be wary of cheap pearls that have a high possibility of being fake. The many skilled tailors in Qatar make it a good place to have clothes made-to-fit. The souqs in the centre of Doha also have a lot to offer, although the goods are usually of cheaper quality than those of the malls. Prices are usually negotiable, so practice your bargaining skills. Souq Waqif (The Standing Souk) is the most interesting of the souqs; it has been renovated to look as it did 50 or 60 years ago. You can buy anything from a turban to a pot large enough to cook a baby camel in! Souqs are particularly good places to acquire spices such as saffron, and dried fruits such as black lemons, at moderate prices compared to most western countries. ==Eat== [[File:Machboos.JPG|thumbnail|The national dish machboos consists of rice with meat (on this plate chicken), onions and spices]] Qatar has seemingly endless options for food, much of it excellent. If you would like European cuisine in a fancy setting, visit a hotel like the Ramada or the Marriott, both of which also offer excellent sushi and the choice of having alcoholic drinks with your meal (the only restaurants in town that can do this are in the major hotels), but at a steep price. Authentic and delicious Indian and Pakistani food is found throughout the city, ranging from family-oriented places to very basic eateries catering to the Indian and Pakistani workers. You may attract some curious stares in the worker eateries, but the management will almost always be extremely welcoming, and the food is very inexpensive. Middle Eastern cuisine is everywhere as well, and in many forms—kebabs, breads, hummus, the list goes on. It can be purchased on the cheap from a take-out (many of which look quite unimpressive, but serve awesome food) or from a fancier place, like the wonderful Layali (near Chili's in the 'Cholesterol Corner' area) that serves gourmet Lebanese food and has hookahs with flavored tobacco. Refined Persian cuisine is available for reasonable prices in the royally appointed Ras Al-Nasa`a Restaurant on the Corniche (don't miss the cathedral-like rest rooms). Traditional Qatari food is very hard to find in restaurants, and largely confined to the homes of locals. If you have Qatari friends, being invited to their homes is generally the best chance you'll get to sample the local cuisine. Qatari food is traditionally eaten by hand, and the most important thing to remember is to '''use only your right hand''', as the left hand is reserved for handling dirty things. Don't be afraid to venture into the souqs looking for a meal; it will be a unique experience in an authentic setting, and although some of the places you see may look rundown, that's just the area in general, and the food will be probably be quite good. Many of the restaurants in the souqs (as well as the shops) shut down during the afternoon hours. If you are in a funny kind of mood, you can try a McArabia—McDonald's Middle Eastern sandwich available only in the region. It is '''illegal''' to eat in public in the daytime during Ramadan, and restaurants and cafes are forbidden from serving dine-in customers during that period. However, restaurants may still sell takeaway meals for non-Muslim foreigners to take home for consumption in private. However, if you can tide yourself over the restrictions, the evening ''iftar'' meals are often elaborate affairs, but be sure to make reservations with the restaurants way in advance as these are extremely popular with the locals. ===Dietary restrictions=== Virtually all food sold in Qatar is '''halal'''. Pork is not served at any restaurants, but is available at inflated prices to non-Muslim foreign residents with a liquor license at the two liquor stores in Doha run by the Qatar Distribution Company (QDC). This license is not available to tourists. ==Drink== It's fair to say nobody comes to Qatar for the nightlife. The sale of alcoholic beverages is restricted to restaurants, bars and nightclubs at the major hotels, and they are quite pricey to boot. Driving under the influence and public intoxication carry heavy penalties, including deportation. It is forbidden to bring alcohol into the country as a tourist; at Hamad International Airport, customs x-ray bags and will confiscate any bottles of alcoholic drinks. They will issue a receipt valid for two weeks to reclaim the alcohol on exit from the country. The only liquor stores in Qatar are run by the Qatar Distribution Company (QDC), which has two locations, both in Doha. To purchase things there, you must have a license, which requires a residency permit (visitors are not eligible) and a written letter of permission from your employer that also confirms that your basic salary is at least QR3000 per month. The selection is good and is like any alcohol selection of a large supermarket in the West. Prices are reasonable although not cheap. As far as non-alcoholic drinks go, be sure to hit some of the Indian and Middle Eastern restaurants and juice stalls. They whip up some tasty and exotic fruit juice combinations that really hit the spot. The national drink of Qatar is the '''Karak Tea'''. It is available at many roadside cafeterias and restaurants. The biggest and most famous place to offer the Karak Tea is Tea Time, which has branches all over Qatar. Ask your taxi driver for the nearest Tea Time to experience the traditional Qatari Tea. '''Arabic coffee''', which is popular throughout the Middle East, is also very popular among local Qataris. ==Sleep== [[File:Sunset at Shamal beach-Qatar.JPG|thumbnail|Sunset at Shamal beach]] A cheap hotel starts at about QAR130. A mid-range hotel is about QAR300. Budget accommodation does not seem to exist in Doha. The only [https://hi-qatar.com/ hostel] is ''very'' hard to find; even the taxi drivers at the airport may have to talk it over! It costs QR100 per night if you don't have YHA membership, QR90 if you do. ==Learn== Education City is a new project in Doha funded by the Qatari Government through the Qatar Foundation. It is the home to Qatar Academy, the Learning Centre, the Academic Bridge Program (similar to a college prep school), as well as branch campuses of Texas A&M University (Engineering) [http://www.qatar.tamu.edu/]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, Weill Cornell Medical College (Medical) [http://www.qatar-med.cornell.edu/], Virginia Commonwealth University (Arts and Communication), Carnegie Mellon University (Business and Computer Science), Georgetown University (School of Foreign Service), and the latest addition to the fold, Northwestern University (Journalism) [http://www.qatar.northwestern.edu/] and Faculty of Islamic Studies all located in Education City to the east of Doha in the Rayyan area. In addition to this Education City is home to the Qatar Science and Technology Park, one of the only places in the Middle East undertaking research and development initiatives. The location of so many academics and students is very appealing for research focused organisations. Lastly, Education City is also home to the newly opened Qatar National Library building. The College of the North Atlantic (based in Newfoundland, Canada), also maintains a campus in Doha in the northern section of the city, near the local Qatar University. The University of Calgary (Nursing) is also in Qatar. ==Work== You will need a work visa to be able to work in Qatar, and receiving one will require a Qatari sponsor to apply on your behalf. The previous system requiring foreigners working in Qatar to get an exit permit to leave was largely scrapped in 2020. Now only people who work for the Qatari military, or those in very specific positions in a company are required to obtain an exit visa to leave. In the latter case, the company will have to submit your name to the government in advance with appropriate justification on why you should be required to get an exit visa to leave, and the number of people who are required to get an exit visa to leave is capped at no more than 5% of each company's total workforce. The work day starts quite early in Qatar. Do not be surprised by 7AM meetings! In the summer, many small stores and Arab businesses will be open from 08:00-12:00 and 16:00-20:00. During the "siesta", most people return home to escape the oppressive heat. Qatar has begun to issue permanent residence visas, after the boycott by neighbouring countries; but foreigners who wish to stay permanently and have good relationships with locals of significant clout have been known to retire in Qatar while nominally on a work visa. Foreign women may obtain citizenship by being married to a Qatari man (but ''not'' foreign men married to Qatari women), but otherwise obtaining citizenship is next to impossible for foreigners. Citizenship may also be granted by decree from the Emir if one has made extraordinary contributions to the country. ==Stay safe== [[File:Noche en Qatar (8121792118).jpg|thumbnail|Nighttime traffic in Doha]]The emergency phone number for police, ambulance or fire department is '''999'''. Qatar is generally a very safe country for tourists, with crime rates among the lowest in the world. Western women travelling on their own sometimes experience staring from local men, along with other unwanted curiosity. However, this is more of an annoyance than a threat, and Qatari police deal harshly with any complaint of harassment. If you want to fit in better with the locals and attract less stares, a long, black cloak and headscarf worn by local women called the ''abaya'' can be purchased at a variety of places in Doha. Travelling on the roads is probably the largest danger to your wellbeing. Although they are safer than most other Asian and Middle Eastern drivers, Qataris often ignore road rules and are intolerant of pedestrians attempting to cross the road. Be safe when walking near or over major highways. Dust storms and sandstorms are another major issue, being common throughout the dry summer. These natural events can shroud the country in darkness and cause severe respiratory issues. If a sandstorm is approaching, immediately seek shelter or wear a facemask. Qatar is not a gay-friendly country, and homosexuality is theoretically punishable by the death penalty (though rarely enforced). Gay visitors are advised to be discreet about their sexual orientation and avoid public displays of affection. Although in other countries, you might record an interaction with police or a party that you're having a dispute with to protect your safety or interests, recording without consent is illegal in Qatar and punishable by a maximum of three years in prison and/or a fine of QAR 100,000. Qatar is a Gulf State and may be affected during times of heightened tensions in the Middle East, and there is often a heightened risk when travelling to or being within Qatar, during times of crisis. It is important to keep up to date with the latest news and updates from local authorities. Take shelter when told to. Qatar hosts U.S bases and may be a target, in times of crisis. Terrorist attacks have been threatened on Gulf countries and cannot be ruled out, especially threats to carry out attacks on Western interests. ==Stay healthy== The quality of Qatari hospitals is generally on par with Western standards. Qatari citizens are provided with free healthcare under the government's national health insurance scheme, but this is not available to foreigners. Foreign residents are generally required to purchase private health insurance as part of their visa conditions. Drink lots of water and take proper precautions for the sun, including clothing that covers your skin and sunscreen. '''[[Tap water]]''' is potable, but most residents choose to drink bottled water just in case. ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} Qataris share a common culture with Arabs in North Africa and other Middle Eastern countries; therefore, what is considered good manners in the rest of the Arab world is applicable to Qatar. Qataris are neither Bahrainis, Emiratis, nor Saudis; referring to a Qatari as either of those will demonstrate that you have no idea what continent you're on. Also, do not compare Qatar to Bahrain, the UAE or Saudi Arabia. Be careful with your words — honour (saving face) is an important part of Qatari culture and it forms the basis of social interactions in the country. Under current Qatari laws, you can be prosecuted for insulting, making fun of, or defaming someone in public or on social media. Qataris will not hesitate to react angrily if you do anything that makes them lose face. If you have an issue with a Qatari person, talk to them behind closed doors. Do not take photos of people without consent, especially women. Western-style street photography and guerilla shots are highly frowned upon. Almost all Qatari men will refuse to provide consent for a portrait, and taking photos of a Qatari woman is an offensive act. Although enforcement is lax in touristic areas, Qatar has strict privacy laws that disallow capturing and using photos of others without consent. If confronted, apologize profusely, visibly delete the photo in front of them, and most will drop the matter entirely without involving authorities. Outside of touristic spots, do not take photos of religious buildings (including mosques and churches), government buildings, infrastructure (with the exception of dhow moors and art within Doha Hamad International Airport), and other sensitive areas. Mosques and the state museums have a dress code. For men, shoulders and knees should be covered. In practice this is not strictly enforced: you will be let in if your shorts show your knees, but short shorts are not acceptable. Women are expected to wear an abaya, and this is generally lent out at no cost if required, when entering the female entrance. Respect the Islamic beliefs of Qataris and Bedouins: While there is no legal requirement to wear the hijab, women shouldn't wear tube tops and skimpy outfits. It is absolutely acceptable for any nationality to wear the traditional Qatari clothes, the thobe. Don't expose the bottoms of your feet to a Qatari when dining. Don't eat with your left hand either, since the left hand is seen as the 'dirty hand'. Similarly, don't attempt to shake hands or hand a package with your left hand. If your Qatari friend insists on buying you something—a meal or a gift—let them! Qataris are extremely hospitable, and typically there are no strings attached. It is generally a custom to argue for the bill. During Ramadan, do not eat, drink or smoke in public. It is illegal and highly disrespectful to locals and Muslims visiting or residing in the country. The laws are nowhere near as strict as those of Saudi Arabia, but you could still get in trouble with the police. '''Business cards''' should always be given and received using only your '''right hand'''. Using the left hand is very disrespectful, as it is considered unclean. ==Cope== ===Newspapers=== * [http://www.gulf-times.com/ Gulf Times] newspaper * [http://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com/ The Peninsula] newspaper * [https://iloveqatar.net/news I Love Qatar] Community News * [http://www.al-watan.com/ Al Watan] Arabic newspaper * [https://samagraidgyaan.com/ Qatar Tribune] * [https://moiqatar.net/ Moi Qatar] ==Connect== You can get by for a few days without a SIM card. Free WiFi is available at many of the museums and art galleries. Download the map of Qatar in Google Maps for when you are on the move and offline. ===By phone=== When calling from abroad, the country code of Qatar is '''974'''. There are no city or area codes. When calling overseas while within Qatar, the international access code is usually '''0'''. Qatari phone numbers now have eight digits. Previously, they contained seven, but this was changed by the government regulator in 2010. If you encounter a number with only seven digits, you can still use it by repeating the first digit. For example, a phone number that previously began with '3' would now start with '33'. Qtel, a government-owned company, used to hold a monopoly over telecommunications in the country. Although this changed in 2006 when the Emir allowed new companies to be formed, competition is still weak with only two major operators: *'''[http://www.ooredoo.qa/en/home Ooredoo]{{Dead link}}''' (formerly ''Qtel'') - the "Hala" prepaid starter pack costs QR&nbsp;50 with QR&nbsp;25 of initial credit. International calls to most countries costs QR&nbsp;0.66/minute. Has overall better coverage than Vodafone. *'''[http://www.vodafone.qa/en Vodafone Qatar]''' - prepaid sim packs start from QR&nbsp;60 with an initial credit of QR&nbsp;35. International calls to most countries costs QR&nbsp;0.66/minute. ===By post=== Qatar has a fairly efficient postal system run by '''[http://www.qpost.com.qa/ Q-Post]{{Dead link|date=February 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. There are dozens of post offices scattered across Doha, along with branches in many major cities. It costs QR2.50 to send a standard postcard to most Western countries. The price drops down to QR1-1.50 when sending a postcard domestically or to most nations within the Middle East and North Africa. Sending parcels can get costly, being counted per kilogram and by distance. A full list of rates and branch locations can be found on the [http://www.qpost.com.qa/ Q-Post website]{{Dead link|date=February 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. All mail to Qatar are typically sent to a PO Box, with no post codes used. Delivery to a street address is limited and is an optional service for an additional cost to PO box holders. Addresses to Qatar should be formatted as: :Name of recipient :Name of company or organization if relevant :PO Box xxxx :CITY :COUNTRY An example: :John Doe :Qatar Airways-I.T. Dept. :PO Box 2250 :DOHA :QATAR {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|25.3000|51.5167|zoom=8}} {{isPartOf|Middle East}} 1f4rsyl8yezgbgm5jqnhudn3rvr5iwg 5288957 5288955 2026-06-07T00:15:44Z ~2026-33468-46 2419305 /* Understand */ 5288957 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Doha (Qatar) banner.jpg|caption=A view of traditional dhow boats in front of the glimmering Doha Corniche|pgname=Qatar}} {{2026 Middle East warningbox}} '''Qatar''' ([[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]: قطر; pronounced ''kut-ar'' or ''cutter'') is a rich Arab state occupying a small peninsula extending into the Persian Gulf to the north of [[Saudi Arabia]]. Many come to the Middle East seeking the mystic, traditional life of the Bedouins, wandering the desert with their life's belongings on a camel's back. Although tradition is still an important part of the Qatari ethos, the country has well and truly moved into the twenty-first century with the piercing glass skyscrapers of [[Doha]], a booming trade sector and a new-found place in international diplomacy. Qatar offers a unique blend of cultural authenticity and modern luxury, making it a major tourism hub in the region. ==Regions== Qatar is administratively divided into eight municipalities, with the capital of each municipality being its eponymous city. {{mapframe|height=|width=250|25.30573311778813|51.15556846541998|zoom=8}} {{Mapshape|title=Ad Dawhah|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q3861|fill=#e3e989}} {{Mapshape|title=Al Rayyan|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q311272|fill=#b383b3}} {{Mapshape|title=Al Daayen|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q310786|fill=#d69c4b}} {{Mapshape|title=Al Wakrah|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q310893|fill=#0000ff}} {{Mapshape|title=Al Khor|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q1156471|fill=#d76972}} {{Mapshape|title=Umm Salal|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q990414|fill=#71b37b}} {{Mapshape|title=Al Shamal|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q310872|fill=#4f93c0}} {{Mapshape|title=Al-Shahaniya|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q12188815|fill=#FFC0CB}} {{Regionlist | region1name=Ad Dawhah | region1color=#e3e989 | region1items=[[Doha]] | region1description=Comprises the capital Doha, the Industrial Area, an exclave surrounded by Al Rayyan municipality, and the Wholesale Market Area, another exclave bound by Al Rayyan and Al Wakrah municipalities | region2name=Al Rayyan | region2color=#b383b3 | region2items=Al Rayyan City | region2description=Al Rayyan City is effectively a suburb of Doha, and covered as part of that article | region3name=Al Daayen | region3color=#d69c4b | region3items=Al Daayen City, Lusail | region3description=Lusail is effectively a suburb of Doha and covered as part of that article | region4name=Al Wakrah | region4color=#0000ff | region4items=[[Al Wakrah|Al Wakrah City]], [[Mesaieed]] | region4description= | region5name=Al Khor | region5color=#d76972 | region5items=[[Al Khor|Al Khor City]] | region5description= | region6name=Umm Salal | region6color=#71b37b | region6items=[[Umm Salal Mohammed]] | region6description= | region7name=Al Shamal | region7color=#4f93c0 | region7items=[[Al Shamal|Al Shamal City]] | region7description= | region8name=Al-Shahaniya | region8color=#FFC0CB | region8items=[[Al Shahaniyah|Al-Shahaniya City]], [[Dukhan]] | region8description= }} ==Cities== [[File:Qatar regions map.png|thumb|300px]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Doha]]|wikidata=Q3861}} – capital and main economic hub. We also cover the neighbouring cities of '''Al Rayyan''' and '''Lusail''' as part of Doha as they are effectively part of the urban area of Doha. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Al Khor]]|wikidata=Q311717}} – northern city with a population of some 36,000, close to Ras Laffan LNG (liquified natural gas) terminal * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Al Shamal]]|wikidata=Q310872}} – this article covers the wider area of the northern municipality of Madinat ash Shamal * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Al Shahaniyah]]|wikidata=Q12188815}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Al Wakrah]]|wikidata=Q310893}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Dukhan]]|wikidata=Q3296633}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mesaieed]]|wikidata=Q1069900}} – industrial town south of Doha, and 25 km south of Wakra, with recreational activities on the coast, including the sand dunes of Khor Al Udeid (the Inland Sea) * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Umm Salal Mohammed]]|wikidata=Q3298627}} ==Other destinations== [[File:Fort Zubara, Qatar (2371639734).jpg|thumb|Zubarah Fort]] * {{marker|name=[[Zubarah]]|wikidata=}} - the ruins of a deserted city and a fort built in 1938 by Sheikh Abdu'llah bin Qasim Al-Thani ==Understand== Qatar has the world's third-largest natural-gas reserves, behind only Russia and Iran. Its oil reserves are similar in size to those of the [[United States of America]] but will last much longer because its production levels are only one-sixth the rate of that country. Its strategic position has also led to the explosive growth of its flag carrier Qatar Airways, which has turned [[Doha]] into one of the world's busiest air hubs. The Qatari government has also been diversifying its economy away from its traditional reliance on oil and natural gas, and has turned the country into one of the main education hubs of the Middle East. By most accounts its citizens are the wealthiest in the world, and the capital Doha and its suburbs sport an endless array of luxury shopping malls with everything the uber-rich could possibly want. Despite this wealth, Qatar is also heavily reliant on a vast underclass of poorly-paid migrant workers who are often horribly mistreated with no legal recourse against employer abuse. Because its Al Jazeera TV satellite networks broadcast throughout the globe in Arabic and English, Qatar is hugely influential despite its relatively small size. For its strategic location on the Persian Gulf and pearl-diving heritage, Qatar's marine tourism industry continues to expand its marine reserves and upgrade port regulations to offer world-class aquatic experiences. ===History=== There is evidence that shows the Qatar peninsula had been inhabited by Bedouin and Canaanite tribes from as early as 4000 BCE. While the museum houses a variety of artifacts including spearheads and pieces of pottery, there is little left of the structures that may have once existed. The Al-Jassassiya rock carvings north of Doha give some idea of how these tribes may have lived. More recently, some sandstone buildings and mosques were discovered, piquing the interest of archaeologists as they seek to discover what still lays beneath the sand. Emerging out of ancient history, Qatar was dominated by various Western and Eastern empires. The Ormus used the peninsula as a trading post and military port, until the Portuguese were able to extend their rule over the region. Neighbouring [[Bahrain]] eventually annexed the peninsula, until rebel movements and [[Britain|British]] intervention again made Qatar independent. Under pressure, Qatar became a part of the Ottoman Empire in 1871 before becoming a British protectorate at the close of World War I. Independence was declared from Britain peacefully in 1971. Since the accession of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani to the throne in 1995 after deposing his father in a coup, Qatar has transformed itself from a poor British protectorate noted mainly for its pearling industry into an independent state with significant oil and natural gas revenues, which enable Qatar to have the highest GDP per capita in the world. Qatar has become deeply involved in world affairs under the royal family, offering support in peacekeeping missions and UN-mandated wars such as that in the Gulf in 1991. Qatar also plays host to various world conferences, including those of the World Trade Organisation, the UN Climate Convention and various mediation bodies. It leaped onto the world stage with the development of the popular Al Jazeera news network and expansion of Qatar Airways to most of the world's continents, and is rapidly gaining interest among foreigners as it hosted the 2006 Asian Games and the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Since the rule of Sheikh Hamad, Qatar has also tried to move away from the Saudi sphere of influence in favor of a more independent foreign policy, resulting in tensions with its neighbors. ===People and culture=== Qatar's population can be broadly divided into three different groups. Qatari culture is largely based on the traditional Islamic Bedouin culture, and you will often see Qataris walking around in the traditional clothing. Men wear white clothing known as the thobe, while women wear black clothing known as the abaya. Today, Qatari citizens only comprise about 10% of the population. Slavery was historically integral to this society, and its legacy survives in the form a vast underclass of underpaid and often horribly mistreated migrant workers, mostly from [[South Asia]] and the [[Philippines]], who toil under gruelling conditions for their Qatari and Western masters, and comprise the vast majority of Qatar's population. The third group of people in Qatar are the Western expatriates, who are often used to project an appearance of modernity and progressivism onto to the outside world, often whitewashing the exploitation that this society is built on. Naturally, the three groups tend to clash, and informal segregation exists in this society, mostly designed to prevent foreign workers from mingling with Qataris. Compared to its main rival the United Arab Emirates, Qatar is somewhat more conservative, though it is generally more liberal that the other Arab Gulf states. While the [[Doha]] metropolitan area is modern and cosmopolitan, and is increasingly emerging as a rival to [[Dubai]] and [[Abu Dhabi]], locals continue to live a more traditional lifestyle in the smaller towns and rural areas, and expect behavior in accordance with it. ===Geography=== {{quickbar| location=LocationQatar.png}} Qatar is a peninsula that juts into the Persian Gulf. Most of the country consists of low barren plain covered with dunes. In the southeast of Qatar lies the Khor al Adaid, an area with sand dunes and an inlet from the Persian Gulf. ===Government=== Qatar is an absolute monarchy headed by the emir, who is from the Al-Thani family. While the country has rapidly modernised under the leadership of former emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, questions remain on the treatment of migrant workers from other parts of Asia, which many human rights groups describe as exploitative and slave-like. As in most other countries in the region, calls for reform and more democracy on the one hand, and a rising Islamist movement calling for a "purer" (i.e. more fundamentalist) interpretation of the Qur'an and Islam on the other hand, are a major factor in domestic politics. ===Economy=== Oil is a cornerstone of the Qatari economy; it used to account for more than 30% of GDP, roughly 80% of export earnings and 58% of government revenues. Proven oil reserves of 15 billion barrels should ensure continued output at current levels for at least the next 20 years. Oil and gas have given Qatar the highest GDP per capita by most studies. Qatar's proved reserves of natural gas exceed 7 trillion m³, more than 11% of the world's total, making it the third largest reserve in the world. Production and export of natural gas are becoming increasingly important. Qatar manages to post very high surpluses each year, and escaped the Global Financial Crisis relatively unscathed. In addition to the energy sector, Qatar also exports petrochemicals, cement and steel. Doha has a rapidly growing financial sector that is cementing itself as one of the centres of trade and finance within the Middle East. The Qatari government has also outlined its plan to boost tourism and media businesses on the peninsula, creating new sectors to further increase Qatar's profile. In addition, many foreign universities have set up outposts in Qatar, transforming Qatar into one of the main education hubs of the Middle East. As result of its oil and natural gas wealth, Qatar provides its citizens with one of the world's most comprehensive welfare states despite not levying any income tax on them. However, the country's large and often poorly-paid immigrant workforce is not given access to the welfare state. ===Climate=== {{climate chart |Doha |14.8 |22.6 |11.2 |15.8 |24.0 |10.6 |18.5 |27.7 |17.1 |23.0 |33.2 |6.0 |28.0 |39.4 |1.2 |30.5 |42.2 |0.0 |32.1 |42.4 |0.0 |31.8 |41.4 |0.0 |29.7 |39.2 |0.0 |26.5 |35.6 |2.8 |22.0 |29.7 |10.8 |17.2 |24.8 |17.6 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Doha]] |description= }} The climate of Qatar can be described as arid and unforgiving. In the summer, which runs from May through to September, the days are characterised by intense and humid heat, averaging 35°C but not unknown to peak at 50°C. In the winter, October to April, the days are much more bearable at about 20-25°C, with a nice cool evening down to around 15°C. If the heat is to be avoided, the best months to visit would be December, January, and/or February. Rainfall and storms in Qatar are extremely rare, forcing locals to retrieve water from newly-constructed desalination plants. However, huge sandstorms that envelop the peninsula are common in the summertime. These can be hazardous if not under shelter, and will descend the country into darkness as it blots out the hot sun above. There may also be disruptions to transportation and other services. ===Read=== * '''Allen J. Fromherz''', ''Qatar: A Modern History''. * '''Abdul Aziz Al Mahmoud''', ''The Corsair''. A debut novel about 19th-century piracy in the Persian Gulf, and the very first novel by a Qatari author. * '''Sophia Al-Maria''', ''The Girl Who Fell to Earth: A Memoir''. Written by a Qatari-American based in Doha, this is an entertaining account of a childhood spent trying to bridge the divide between Bedouin and American cultures. ===Visitor information === * [https://visitqatar.com/ Visit Qatar] website ==Talk== '''[[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]''' is the official language of Qatar although the majority of residents do not speak it. Expatriate workers from other parts of Asia and Africa far outnumber Qatari citizens, particularly in Doha. '''English''' is the ''lingua franca'', and most Qataris speak it to communicate with the foreign workers who work for them. Most retail workers are South Asians or Filipinos, not Qataris. Nevertheless, if you can learn to speak some Arabic, it would undoubtedly impress the locals. Qataris speak the Gulf dialect of Arabic. In Standard Arabic, the "Q" in Qatar is typically pronounced as a "k" but more at the back of the throat. That said, in the local Gulf dialect of Arabic, the initial consonant is usually pronounced like a hard "g", and the first "a" vowel is usually reduced to schwa. You may encounter foreign labourers speaking diverse languages such as [[Hindi]], [[Urdu]] and [[Tagalog]]. While you can get by just fine in Qatar with only English under your belt, your hosts and any other locals you may meet will be very impressed and appreciative if you can recite a few basic Arabic phrases. ==Get in== ===Entry requirements=== Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries ([[Bahrain]], [[Kuwait]], [[Oman]], [[Saudi Arabia]] and the [[United Arab Emirates]]) do not require a visa to enter Qatar, and may use National ID Cards to enter the country. They may also stay indefinitely with no restrictions including on employment. Citizens of [[Antigua and Barbuda]], [[Argentina]], [[Austria]], the [[Bahamas]], [[Belgium]], [[Bulgaria]], [[Croatia]], [[Cyprus]], [[Czech Republic]], [[Denmark]], [[Dominican Republic]], [[Estonia]], [[Finland]], [[France]], [[Germany]], [[Greece]], [[Hungary]], [[Iceland]], [[Italy]], [[Latvia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Lithuania]], [[Luxembourg]], [[Malaysia]], [[Malta]], the [[Netherlands]], [[Norway]], [[Poland]], [[Portugal]], [[Romania]], [[Serbia]], [[Seychelles]], [[Slovakia]], [[Slovenia]], [[Spain]], [[Sweden]], [[Switzerland]], [[Turkey]] and [[Ukraine]] can visit Qatar without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Citizens of [[Andorra]], [[Australia]], [[Azerbaijan]], [[Belarus]], [[Bolivia]], [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]], [[Brazil]], [[Brunei]], [[Canada]], [[Chile]], [[China]] (mainland), [[Colombia]], [[Costa Rica]], [[Cuba]], [[Ecuador]], [[Falkland Islands]], [[French Guiana]], [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]], [[Guyana]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Indonesia]], [[Ireland]], [[Japan]], [[Kazakhstan]], [[Lebanon]], [[Macau]], the [[Maldives]], [[Mexico]], [[Moldova]], [[Monaco]], [[Montenegro]], [[New Zealand]], [[North Macedonia]], [[Panama]], [[Paraguay]], [[Peru]], [[Russia]], [[San Marino]], [[Singapore]], [[South Africa]], [[South Korea]], [[Suriname]], [[Taiwan]], [[United Kingdom]] (British citizen only), [[Uruguay]], [[Vatican City]] and [[Venezuela]] may visit Qatar without a visa for up to 30 days. Citizens of the [[United States of America|United States]] may visit for up to 90 days without a visa. Citizens of [[India]], [[Iran]], [[Pakistan]], [[Thailand]] and [[Ukraine]] may also visit for up to 30 days without a visa provided they have a confirmed hotel booking through '''[https://www.discoverqatar.qa/mandatory-hotels-for-visa-on-arrival Discover Qatar]''' for their entire duration of stay. Booking your hotel through any other method will require you to obtain a visa in advance. Citizens of all nationalities who hold valid residence permits for the [[United Kingdom]], the [[United States of America|United States]], [[Canada]], [[Australia]], [[New Zealand]], the [[Europe|Schengen Area]], or GCC countries, or valid visas for the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or the Schengen Area may visit without a visa for up to 30 days. Regardless of nationality, travellers who are in transit through Hamad International Airport do not require a visa if they depart within 24 hours and remain within the airport. Free transit visas, which are valid for up to 96 hours (4 days) and allow travellers to briefly visit Qatar, are also issued to all passengers of any nationality transiting through Hamad International Airport, provided that they travel with Qatar Airways. For those needing visas, tourist visas are available online through the [http://portal.www.gov.qa/wps/portal/services/touristVisas/jointtouristvisa eVisa system], and you will need to have a sponsor from within Qatar. Visas are issued within four working days if all documents are submitted, and are valid for a stay period up to 30 days in Qatar. If you do not require a visa, you may opt to apply for an ETA, which will allow you to use the automated immigration gates on arrival. Qatar scrapped the previous requirement for those in the country on work visas to obtain an exit visa to leave for most people in 2020. Exit visas are now only required in very limited circumstances. See the [[Qatar#Work|Work]] section for more details. Qatar officially accepts Israeli passports (with the necessary visas) and passports with evidence of visits to Israel. ===By plane=== Entry by air into Qatar has boomed in the last decade. Most people visiting the country will enter via '''[[Hamad International Airport]]''' ({{IATA|DOH}}) near [[Doha]]. State-owned flag carrier '''[http://www.qatarairways.com Qatar Airways]''' has secured a huge network of flights operating out of its hub in [[Doha]] to 124 destinations. In fact, it is of the very few airports in the world with non-stop services to all inhabited continents. Other major airlines also serve the airport, usually running a route between Doha and their own hub in the base country. A taxi fare from the airport has a default tariff of QR&nbsp;25. ===By car=== The only land route to Qatar is from [[Saudi Arabia]]. There are plans for a major bridge to link Qatar with neighbouring Bahrain, although these are constantly delayed. Travel by car is not recommended. The roads between Qatar and other major cities/countries are poor. If you are travelling during the day, be cautious of speeding cars and trucks. ''Always'' wear your seat belt and do not speed over 50 mph (80 km/h). Travelling at night is risking your life, with poor visibility and semi-suicidal drivers. === By bus === Bus routes from Saudi Arabia (mostly used by men only) were disrupted in the 2017–2021 diplomatic crisis. Customs can take up to 4 hours especially at night. You will not be treated nearly as well as if you fly into Doha. Flying in costs only slightly more than a bus ticket. ===By boat=== There are no specific boat routes, but there are commercial freight boats coming into Doha from all over the world, as well as small commercial boats coming in from [[Dubai]] and [[Iran]]. ==Get around== Public transport comes in three forms in Qatar: buses, taxis and limousines, all of which are owned by government-owned Mowasalat (Karwa) apart from some private limousine companies. Within the capital, Doha, there's also a metro. === By bus === [[File:Doha Karwa public bus.jpg|thumbnail|Public Karwa bus]] The bus service began in October 2005. Ticketing is handled using a [https://www.mowasalat.com/English/Our-Services/Service-Catalog/KARWA-Smart-Card Karwa Smartcard], which comes in three types: * '''Smartcard Classic''' - Initial fee of QR30 with QR20 credit included. Journey prices vary, costing QR2.50 for a short ride. You must tap-in when you get on the bus, and tap-off when you get off to avoid a default QR30 penalty. Can be purchased in various retailers as listed on the Karwa website, but not on board buses. * '''Smartcard 24 Limited''' - An initial fee of QR10 allows 2 trips on the bus (one return trip) within 24 hours of first tapping-in. You only need to tap-in, and ''should not'' tap-off. Can be bought on board the bus for travel in Greater Doha only. * '''Smartcard 24 Unlimited''' - An initial fee of QR20 gives the user unlimited travel throughout Qatar within 24 hours of first tapping-in. Again, there is no necessity to tap-off. Can be bought aboard the bus. A large number of routes criss-cross the country, with the network stretching north to Al Khor, west to Dukhan, and as far south as Mesaieed. Timetable and ticketing information can be obtained by calling +974 4436 6053. === By taxi or limousine === [[File:Qatar, Dukhan Highway.JPG|thumbnail|Highway from Doha to Dukhan]] The government-owned Mowasalat also runs the taxi and limousine service. The taxis are easily spotted due to their uniform light blue colour with a maroon top. The initial fare on the meter is QR&nbsp;4, with an extra QR&nbsp;1.20 per kilometre within Doha and QR&nbsp;1.80 anywhere outside the capital. A trip to or from the airport has a single tariff of QR&nbsp;25. To ensure you are not scammed, some precautions should be noted: * For journeys within Doha the tariff should be set to '1', and those at night or outside of Doha should be set to '0'. * Check the meter is not tampered; signs of a tampered meter include tape and strips of paper around the outside. * By law, if a driver refuses to use the meter, the ride should be free. * There are occasional reports of unruly drivers locking the taxi doors or refusing to open the trunk until extra payment is made. If such an occurrence happens to you, attempt to leave the car. If not possible, calling the police on 999 should cause the driver to become very cooperative. The demand for taxis exceeds the supply and waiting times can vary greatly. Attempting to obtain one during morning business hours requires at least 24 hours notice, although even in practice this is unreliable, as the scheduled taxi often doesn't show up. At other times, it may take 90 minutes or more to get an on-call taxi, and hailing one on the street may be impossible much of the time. The only places where you are guaranteed to find a taxi are major malls, the airport and international hotels. Taxis can be booked and summoned by calling +974 4458 8888. An alternative to taxis and buses would be to use a limousine service, which will send an unmarked limo car to your location. They are expensive, but luxurious taxis with an initial fee of QR&nbsp;20, but do not always feature a meter. International limousine services, such as [[Uber]], [[Careem]], and [[Lyft]] are available in Qatar. The apps allow for quick and easy summoning of a driver. Occasionally, a local driver may offer you a lift if they see you waiting on the side of the road. It is customary to offer some money at the end, though usually they will refuse to take it. A driver offering a lift will slow down and flash their headlights at you; they can be summoned with a wave in response. Although the practice is safe, it is not advisable for solo women. === By metro === A metro opened in 2019 serving Doha and its suburbs. You can travel from point A to B for QR2 per person per trip or buy a day pass for QR6. However, if you are planning to use the metro very frequently, you can buy a metro card for QR30. Free metro link bus services are available from/to metro stations to/from nearby destinations. The metro opens at 06:00 and closes at 23:00. === By car === You can hire a car for about US$20 per day with local car rental companies. Plenty of them are located at the airport and Doha city centre, or else ask your hotel for some advice. ==See== For a comparatively small peninsula in the [[Middle East]], there is quite a lot to see in Qatar. === Historical monuments === [[File:Jebel Jassassiyeh boat carving?.jpg|thumbnail|Rock carvings at Al-Jassassiya]] The history-seeker will not be disappointed, with an assortment of ruins, cave art and museums to keep the mind wandering. Most famous is the archaeological site of [[Zubarah]], where there are the remains of what was once a thriving port city. An early '''20th-century fort''' on the site still stands as a museum, a testament to a bygone era. The [[Al-Jassassiya]] '''rock carvings''' in north-eastern Qatar are a remarkable site of 900 petroglyphs that are believed to date back to ancient tribes who inhabited the peninsula during the 15th century BCE. A number of forts and towers exist around the country; most of them have also been restored as museums. The '''Barzan Towers''' stand at the edge of the town of [[Umm Salal Mohammed]], erected to safeguard the country's rainwater basin. Another defensive watchtower stands in [[Al Khor]]. The popular '''Al Koot Fort''' is located in the heart of the capital Doha, with a wide variety of traditional handicrafts within. Others structures include Marwab Fort, Al Thughab Fort, Al Shaghab Fort, Al Rakiyat Fort, Al Wajbah Fort and the ruins of Al Yussoufiya Fort, Umm Al Maa Fort and Al Ghuwair Castle. The '''National Museum''' is housed in an impressive "desert rose stone" shaped building. There are a number of other museums across the country that specialise in history. The '''Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum''' in [[Al Shahaniya]] is the Sheikh's collection of relics, artefacts and art from Qatar, the Middle East and around the world. === Culture and tradition === === Nature and the land === === Modern attractions === [[File:The Pearl at Night (5540218048).jpg|thumbnail|Yachts docked at the Pearl]] * The Museum of Islamic Art, Doha * Souq Waqif: the traditional old marketplace of Qatar. Has many good restaurants, especially at night time. Also sells many national products - bargaining is recommended. Closed from 12:30 until 15:30, although in practice most shops don't reopen until 16:00 * The Pearl: a man-made island connected to Doha by a bridge. You can find a wide variety of restaurants and shops, mainly high-end. * Villaggio Mall: a spectacular Venetian style shopping mall with a canal and gondolas as well. A huge variety of shops from casual to luxury. * Mathaf: The Arab museum of modern art * Katara: "Cultural village" which is home to high-end international and Arab restaurants, a high-end shopping mall, a beach, an opera house, an amphitheatre, and an exhibition hall. It holds many cultural events. See the two small mosques. * Aqua park: Aquatic Funfair. * Qatar Mall: A huge mall with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. * Aspire park: A park next to Villaggio mall, it is reserved for families only on the weekend, visiting in the winter months is recommended. * MIA park: A park next to the museum of Islamic art, single people are allowed in, visiting in the winter months is recommended. ==Do== * A great activity for tourists is simply to experience the nation's tradition. The traditional Qatari way of life was simple: Bedouin nomads wandering the desert with their camels, and fisherman scouring the ocean floor for pearls to trade. While these two lifestyles are mostly extinct on the peninsula, the government has taken some measures to preserve their traditions for future generations to experience. * Many tour companies run '''desert expeditions''' by both four-wheel drive and camel. Some may just be for the day, while others can go for up to a week with trekkers camping overnight in a Bedouin tent. The one day "dune-bashing" tours simply involve speeding over the desert's endless dunes in a Landcruiser. * The '''pearling''' tradition has existed as far back as 2000 BCE, when Mesopotamian records speak of shining "fish eyes" imported from the Gulf region. While the industry went bust after the discovery of oil, a large festival is held each year to celebrate the tradition. The '''Qatar Marine Festival''' in Doha often includes a huge sea expedition by various ''dhow'' boats to find oyster beds on the ocean floor. Other activities at the festival include a musical performance, a seal show, a sandsculptor's expedition and a water, light and sound show. * Many companies offer '''shipwreck diving''' for tourists, which can be organised from Doha. Popular diving sites include the man-made Old Club Reef and New Club Reef just out of [[Messaied]], Qapco Reef, the M.O. Shipwreck and the Al Sharque Shipwreck. * Other popular '''watersports''' include kite-surfing, driving jet-skis, surfing and chartered fishing expeditions. * '''Football:''' Qatar will host the [https://www.the-afc.com/en/national/afc_asian_cup.html 2023 AFC Asian Cup] for men's national soccer teams, with 24 nations participating. It's held 12 Jan - 10 Feb 2024 to avoid searing summer temperatures. The venues are expected to be those used in Nov / Dec 2022 when Qatar hosted the FIFA World Cup. * '''[[Formula One]]''' or Grand Prix motor races that started in 2021 are held in November at Lusail Circuit 45 km north of Doha. It is always a night Grand Prix. ==Buy== Qatar can be expensive (an espresso in National Library is QR15), but it can also be very cheap (a good meal in a local restaurant is the same price). Touristy areas tend to be more expensive. Petrol is cheap. Prices are generally lower than in the United Arab Emirates. Keep in mind that the luxury shopping malls designate Fridays, weekends and public holidays as "family day" in order to prevent the migrant workers, who are mostly male and in Qatar without their families, from mingling with Qataris on their days off. While in theory "family day" is designated for women and families, and single men are supposed to be banned regardless of race or nationality, in practice Qatari and white men are admitted to these venues with no problem, while the restriction is only enforced for non-Qatari and non-white men. ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Qatari riyal | currencyCode=QR | date=January 2026 | USD=3.64 (fixed) | EUR=4.3 | GBP=4.9 | SAR=0.97 (fixed) | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/qar-qatari-riyal XE.com] }} [[File:Souq Waqif with Qataris in foreground.jpg|350px|thumb|The splendidly-restored Souq Waqif of Doha.]] The national currency is the '''Qatari riyal''', denoted by the symbol "'''ر.ق'''" or "'''QR'''" (ISO code: '''QAR'''). The riyal is pegged to the US dollar at the rate of QR3.64 to US$1. One riyal is divided into 100 dirhams, with coins issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 dirhams. The riyal is available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200 and 500 riyals. A new series of banknotes marked with a Qatari flag on the back was rolled out in 2020, and older notes are no longer accepted by merchants. Most banks will convert old notes into new notes free of charge, but the process can be time-consuming. It is fairly straightforward to change major world currencies within Qatar, along with the currencies of Bahrain, Saudia Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Rates are fairly similar between banks and moneychangers, with a large concentration of moneychangers near the Gold Souq of Doha. Banks are abundant across Doha, with branches in the larger cities as well. Traveler's cheques are accepted by the major banks. ===Shopping=== Qatar has many malls in which regular international brands such as H&M, Zara, and Mango. The biggest malls are Mall of Qatar, Festival City, and City Center. Middle Eastern and local brands are also present. There is no sales tax in Qatar, but prices are generally not cheap due to the high standard of living. The Pearl has luxurious brands from all over the world. It is the premium luxury shopping destination in Qatar. Blue Salon has huge sales twice a year where you can pick up Armani, Valentino and Cerutti suits for half price. There are many things to buy here but be wary of cheap pearls that have a high possibility of being fake. The many skilled tailors in Qatar make it a good place to have clothes made-to-fit. The souqs in the centre of Doha also have a lot to offer, although the goods are usually of cheaper quality than those of the malls. Prices are usually negotiable, so practice your bargaining skills. Souq Waqif (The Standing Souk) is the most interesting of the souqs; it has been renovated to look as it did 50 or 60 years ago. You can buy anything from a turban to a pot large enough to cook a baby camel in! Souqs are particularly good places to acquire spices such as saffron, and dried fruits such as black lemons, at moderate prices compared to most western countries. ==Eat== [[File:Machboos.JPG|thumbnail|The national dish machboos consists of rice with meat (on this plate chicken), onions and spices]] Qatar has seemingly endless options for food, much of it excellent. If you would like European cuisine in a fancy setting, visit a hotel like the Ramada or the Marriott, both of which also offer excellent sushi and the choice of having alcoholic drinks with your meal (the only restaurants in town that can do this are in the major hotels), but at a steep price. Authentic and delicious Indian and Pakistani food is found throughout the city, ranging from family-oriented places to very basic eateries catering to the Indian and Pakistani workers. You may attract some curious stares in the worker eateries, but the management will almost always be extremely welcoming, and the food is very inexpensive. Middle Eastern cuisine is everywhere as well, and in many forms—kebabs, breads, hummus, the list goes on. It can be purchased on the cheap from a take-out (many of which look quite unimpressive, but serve awesome food) or from a fancier place, like the wonderful Layali (near Chili's in the 'Cholesterol Corner' area) that serves gourmet Lebanese food and has hookahs with flavored tobacco. Refined Persian cuisine is available for reasonable prices in the royally appointed Ras Al-Nasa`a Restaurant on the Corniche (don't miss the cathedral-like rest rooms). Traditional Qatari food is very hard to find in restaurants, and largely confined to the homes of locals. If you have Qatari friends, being invited to their homes is generally the best chance you'll get to sample the local cuisine. Qatari food is traditionally eaten by hand, and the most important thing to remember is to '''use only your right hand''', as the left hand is reserved for handling dirty things. Don't be afraid to venture into the souqs looking for a meal; it will be a unique experience in an authentic setting, and although some of the places you see may look rundown, that's just the area in general, and the food will be probably be quite good. Many of the restaurants in the souqs (as well as the shops) shut down during the afternoon hours. If you are in a funny kind of mood, you can try a McArabia—McDonald's Middle Eastern sandwich available only in the region. It is '''illegal''' to eat in public in the daytime during Ramadan, and restaurants and cafes are forbidden from serving dine-in customers during that period. However, restaurants may still sell takeaway meals for non-Muslim foreigners to take home for consumption in private. However, if you can tide yourself over the restrictions, the evening ''iftar'' meals are often elaborate affairs, but be sure to make reservations with the restaurants way in advance as these are extremely popular with the locals. ===Dietary restrictions=== Virtually all food sold in Qatar is '''halal'''. Pork is not served at any restaurants, but is available at inflated prices to non-Muslim foreign residents with a liquor license at the two liquor stores in Doha run by the Qatar Distribution Company (QDC). This license is not available to tourists. ==Drink== It's fair to say nobody comes to Qatar for the nightlife. The sale of alcoholic beverages is restricted to restaurants, bars and nightclubs at the major hotels, and they are quite pricey to boot. Driving under the influence and public intoxication carry heavy penalties, including deportation. It is forbidden to bring alcohol into the country as a tourist; at Hamad International Airport, customs x-ray bags and will confiscate any bottles of alcoholic drinks. They will issue a receipt valid for two weeks to reclaim the alcohol on exit from the country. The only liquor stores in Qatar are run by the Qatar Distribution Company (QDC), which has two locations, both in Doha. To purchase things there, you must have a license, which requires a residency permit (visitors are not eligible) and a written letter of permission from your employer that also confirms that your basic salary is at least QR3000 per month. The selection is good and is like any alcohol selection of a large supermarket in the West. Prices are reasonable although not cheap. As far as non-alcoholic drinks go, be sure to hit some of the Indian and Middle Eastern restaurants and juice stalls. They whip up some tasty and exotic fruit juice combinations that really hit the spot. The national drink of Qatar is the '''Karak Tea'''. It is available at many roadside cafeterias and restaurants. The biggest and most famous place to offer the Karak Tea is Tea Time, which has branches all over Qatar. Ask your taxi driver for the nearest Tea Time to experience the traditional Qatari Tea. '''Arabic coffee''', which is popular throughout the Middle East, is also very popular among local Qataris. ==Sleep== [[File:Sunset at Shamal beach-Qatar.JPG|thumbnail|Sunset at Shamal beach]] A cheap hotel starts at about QAR130. A mid-range hotel is about QAR300. Budget accommodation does not seem to exist in Doha. The only [https://hi-qatar.com/ hostel] is ''very'' hard to find; even the taxi drivers at the airport may have to talk it over! It costs QR100 per night if you don't have YHA membership, QR90 if you do. ==Learn== Education City is a new project in Doha funded by the Qatari Government through the Qatar Foundation. It is the home to Qatar Academy, the Learning Centre, the Academic Bridge Program (similar to a college prep school), as well as branch campuses of Texas A&M University (Engineering) [http://www.qatar.tamu.edu/]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, Weill Cornell Medical College (Medical) [http://www.qatar-med.cornell.edu/], Virginia Commonwealth University (Arts and Communication), Carnegie Mellon University (Business and Computer Science), Georgetown University (School of Foreign Service), and the latest addition to the fold, Northwestern University (Journalism) [http://www.qatar.northwestern.edu/] and Faculty of Islamic Studies all located in Education City to the east of Doha in the Rayyan area. In addition to this Education City is home to the Qatar Science and Technology Park, one of the only places in the Middle East undertaking research and development initiatives. The location of so many academics and students is very appealing for research focused organisations. Lastly, Education City is also home to the newly opened Qatar National Library building. The College of the North Atlantic (based in Newfoundland, Canada), also maintains a campus in Doha in the northern section of the city, near the local Qatar University. The University of Calgary (Nursing) is also in Qatar. ==Work== You will need a work visa to be able to work in Qatar, and receiving one will require a Qatari sponsor to apply on your behalf. The previous system requiring foreigners working in Qatar to get an exit permit to leave was largely scrapped in 2020. Now only people who work for the Qatari military, or those in very specific positions in a company are required to obtain an exit visa to leave. In the latter case, the company will have to submit your name to the government in advance with appropriate justification on why you should be required to get an exit visa to leave, and the number of people who are required to get an exit visa to leave is capped at no more than 5% of each company's total workforce. The work day starts quite early in Qatar. Do not be surprised by 7AM meetings! In the summer, many small stores and Arab businesses will be open from 08:00-12:00 and 16:00-20:00. During the "siesta", most people return home to escape the oppressive heat. Qatar has begun to issue permanent residence visas, after the boycott by neighbouring countries; but foreigners who wish to stay permanently and have good relationships with locals of significant clout have been known to retire in Qatar while nominally on a work visa. Foreign women may obtain citizenship by being married to a Qatari man (but ''not'' foreign men married to Qatari women), but otherwise obtaining citizenship is next to impossible for foreigners. Citizenship may also be granted by decree from the Emir if one has made extraordinary contributions to the country. ==Stay safe== [[File:Noche en Qatar (8121792118).jpg|thumbnail|Nighttime traffic in Doha]]The emergency phone number for police, ambulance or fire department is '''999'''. Qatar is generally a very safe country for tourists, with crime rates among the lowest in the world. Western women travelling on their own sometimes experience staring from local men, along with other unwanted curiosity. However, this is more of an annoyance than a threat, and Qatari police deal harshly with any complaint of harassment. If you want to fit in better with the locals and attract less stares, a long, black cloak and headscarf worn by local women called the ''abaya'' can be purchased at a variety of places in Doha. Travelling on the roads is probably the largest danger to your wellbeing. Although they are safer than most other Asian and Middle Eastern drivers, Qataris often ignore road rules and are intolerant of pedestrians attempting to cross the road. Be safe when walking near or over major highways. Dust storms and sandstorms are another major issue, being common throughout the dry summer. These natural events can shroud the country in darkness and cause severe respiratory issues. If a sandstorm is approaching, immediately seek shelter or wear a facemask. Qatar is not a gay-friendly country, and homosexuality is theoretically punishable by the death penalty (though rarely enforced). Gay visitors are advised to be discreet about their sexual orientation and avoid public displays of affection. Although in other countries, you might record an interaction with police or a party that you're having a dispute with to protect your safety or interests, recording without consent is illegal in Qatar and punishable by a maximum of three years in prison and/or a fine of QAR 100,000. Qatar is a Gulf State and may be affected during times of heightened tensions in the Middle East, and there is often a heightened risk when travelling to or being within Qatar, during times of crisis. It is important to keep up to date with the latest news and updates from local authorities. Take shelter when told to. Qatar hosts U.S bases and may be a target, in times of crisis. Terrorist attacks have been threatened on Gulf countries and cannot be ruled out, especially threats to carry out attacks on Western interests. ==Stay healthy== The quality of Qatari hospitals is generally on par with Western standards. Qatari citizens are provided with free healthcare under the government's national health insurance scheme, but this is not available to foreigners. Foreign residents are generally required to purchase private health insurance as part of their visa conditions. Drink lots of water and take proper precautions for the sun, including clothing that covers your skin and sunscreen. '''[[Tap water]]''' is potable, but most residents choose to drink bottled water just in case. ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} Qataris share a common culture with Arabs in North Africa and other Middle Eastern countries; therefore, what is considered good manners in the rest of the Arab world is applicable to Qatar. Qataris are neither Bahrainis, Emiratis, nor Saudis; referring to a Qatari as either of those will demonstrate that you have no idea what continent you're on. Also, do not compare Qatar to Bahrain, the UAE or Saudi Arabia. Be careful with your words — honour (saving face) is an important part of Qatari culture and it forms the basis of social interactions in the country. Under current Qatari laws, you can be prosecuted for insulting, making fun of, or defaming someone in public or on social media. Qataris will not hesitate to react angrily if you do anything that makes them lose face. If you have an issue with a Qatari person, talk to them behind closed doors. Do not take photos of people without consent, especially women. Western-style street photography and guerilla shots are highly frowned upon. Almost all Qatari men will refuse to provide consent for a portrait, and taking photos of a Qatari woman is an offensive act. Although enforcement is lax in touristic areas, Qatar has strict privacy laws that disallow capturing and using photos of others without consent. If confronted, apologize profusely, visibly delete the photo in front of them, and most will drop the matter entirely without involving authorities. Outside of touristic spots, do not take photos of religious buildings (including mosques and churches), government buildings, infrastructure (with the exception of dhow moors and art within Doha Hamad International Airport), and other sensitive areas. Mosques and the state museums have a dress code. For men, shoulders and knees should be covered. In practice this is not strictly enforced: you will be let in if your shorts show your knees, but short shorts are not acceptable. Women are expected to wear an abaya, and this is generally lent out at no cost if required, when entering the female entrance. Respect the Islamic beliefs of Qataris and Bedouins: While there is no legal requirement to wear the hijab, women shouldn't wear tube tops and skimpy outfits. It is absolutely acceptable for any nationality to wear the traditional Qatari clothes, the thobe. Don't expose the bottoms of your feet to a Qatari when dining. Don't eat with your left hand either, since the left hand is seen as the 'dirty hand'. Similarly, don't attempt to shake hands or hand a package with your left hand. If your Qatari friend insists on buying you something—a meal or a gift—let them! Qataris are extremely hospitable, and typically there are no strings attached. It is generally a custom to argue for the bill. During Ramadan, do not eat, drink or smoke in public. It is illegal and highly disrespectful to locals and Muslims visiting or residing in the country. The laws are nowhere near as strict as those of Saudi Arabia, but you could still get in trouble with the police. '''Business cards''' should always be given and received using only your '''right hand'''. Using the left hand is very disrespectful, as it is considered unclean. ==Cope== ===Newspapers=== * [http://www.gulf-times.com/ Gulf Times] newspaper * [http://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com/ The Peninsula] newspaper * [https://iloveqatar.net/news I Love Qatar] Community News * [http://www.al-watan.com/ Al Watan] Arabic newspaper * [https://samagraidgyaan.com/ Qatar Tribune] * [https://moiqatar.net/ Moi Qatar] ==Connect== You can get by for a few days without a SIM card. Free WiFi is available at many of the museums and art galleries. Download the map of Qatar in Google Maps for when you are on the move and offline. ===By phone=== When calling from abroad, the country code of Qatar is '''974'''. There are no city or area codes. When calling overseas while within Qatar, the international access code is usually '''0'''. Qatari phone numbers now have eight digits. Previously, they contained seven, but this was changed by the government regulator in 2010. If you encounter a number with only seven digits, you can still use it by repeating the first digit. For example, a phone number that previously began with '3' would now start with '33'. Qtel, a government-owned company, used to hold a monopoly over telecommunications in the country. Although this changed in 2006 when the Emir allowed new companies to be formed, competition is still weak with only two major operators: *'''[http://www.ooredoo.qa/en/home Ooredoo]{{Dead link}}''' (formerly ''Qtel'') - the "Hala" prepaid starter pack costs QR&nbsp;50 with QR&nbsp;25 of initial credit. International calls to most countries costs QR&nbsp;0.66/minute. Has overall better coverage than Vodafone. *'''[http://www.vodafone.qa/en Vodafone Qatar]''' - prepaid sim packs start from QR&nbsp;60 with an initial credit of QR&nbsp;35. International calls to most countries costs QR&nbsp;0.66/minute. ===By post=== Qatar has a fairly efficient postal system run by '''[http://www.qpost.com.qa/ Q-Post]{{Dead link|date=February 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. There are dozens of post offices scattered across Doha, along with branches in many major cities. It costs QR2.50 to send a standard postcard to most Western countries. The price drops down to QR1-1.50 when sending a postcard domestically or to most nations within the Middle East and North Africa. Sending parcels can get costly, being counted per kilogram and by distance. A full list of rates and branch locations can be found on the [http://www.qpost.com.qa/ Q-Post website]{{Dead link|date=February 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. All mail to Qatar are typically sent to a PO Box, with no post codes used. Delivery to a street address is limited and is an optional service for an additional cost to PO box holders. Addresses to Qatar should be formatted as: :Name of recipient :Name of company or organization if relevant :PO Box xxxx :CITY :COUNTRY An example: :John Doe :Qatar Airways-I.T. Dept. :PO Box 2250 :DOHA :QATAR {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|25.3000|51.5167|zoom=8}} {{isPartOf|Middle East}} pxjjlirhsgd2uhgzhkq2xamaqqk34bg 5288958 5288957 2026-06-07T00:23:46Z SHB2000 2248002 Restored revision 5279634 by [[Special:Contributions/MorsSineMusisVita|MorsSineMusisVita]] ([[en:w:User:BrandonXLF/Restorer|Restorer]]) 5288958 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Doha (Qatar) banner.jpg|caption=A view of traditional dhow boats in front of the glimmering Doha Corniche|pgname=Qatar}} {{2026 Middle East warningbox}} '''Qatar''' ([[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]: قطر; pronounced ''kut-ar'' or ''cutter'') is a rich Arab state occupying a small peninsula extending into the Persian Gulf to the north of [[Saudi Arabia]]. Many come to the Middle East seeking the mystic, traditional life of the Bedouins, wandering the desert with their life's belongings on a camel's back. Although tradition is still an important part of the Qatari ethos, the country has well and truly moved into the twenty-first century with the piercing glass skyscrapers of [[Doha]], a booming trade sector and a new-found place in international diplomacy. Qatar offers a unique blend of cultural authenticity and modern luxury, making it a major tourism hub in the region. ==Regions== Qatar is administratively divided into eight municipalities, with the capital of each municipality being its eponymous city. {{mapframe|height=|width=250|25.30573311778813|51.15556846541998|zoom=8}} {{Mapshape|title=Ad Dawhah|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q3861|fill=#e3e989}} {{Mapshape|title=Al Rayyan|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q311272|fill=#b383b3}} {{Mapshape|title=Al Daayen|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q310786|fill=#d69c4b}} {{Mapshape|title=Al Wakrah|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q310893|fill=#0000ff}} {{Mapshape|title=Al Khor|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q1156471|fill=#d76972}} {{Mapshape|title=Umm Salal|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q990414|fill=#71b37b}} {{Mapshape|title=Al Shamal|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q310872|fill=#4f93c0}} {{Mapshape|title=Al-Shahaniya|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q12188815|fill=#FFC0CB}} {{Regionlist | region1name=Ad Dawhah | region1color=#e3e989 | region1items=[[Doha]] | region1description=Comprises the capital Doha, the Industrial Area, an exclave surrounded by Al Rayyan municipality, and the Wholesale Market Area, another exclave bound by Al Rayyan and Al Wakrah municipalities | region2name=Al Rayyan | region2color=#b383b3 | region2items=Al Rayyan City | region2description=Al Rayyan City is effectively a suburb of Doha, and covered as part of that article | region3name=Al Daayen | region3color=#d69c4b | region3items=Al Daayen City, Lusail | region3description=Lusail is effectively a suburb of Doha and covered as part of that article | region4name=Al Wakrah | region4color=#0000ff | region4items=[[Al Wakrah|Al Wakrah City]], [[Mesaieed]] | region4description= | region5name=Al Khor | region5color=#d76972 | region5items=[[Al Khor|Al Khor City]] | region5description= | region6name=Umm Salal | region6color=#71b37b | region6items=[[Umm Salal Mohammed]] | region6description= | region7name=Al Shamal | region7color=#4f93c0 | region7items=[[Al Shamal|Al Shamal City]] | region7description= | region8name=Al-Shahaniya | region8color=#FFC0CB | region8items=[[Al Shahaniyah|Al-Shahaniya City]], [[Dukhan]] | region8description= }} ==Cities== [[File:Qatar regions map.png|thumb|300px]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Doha]]|wikidata=Q3861}} – capital and main economic hub. We also cover the neighbouring cities of '''Al Rayyan''' and '''Lusail''' as part of Doha as they are effectively part of the urban area of Doha. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Al Khor]]|wikidata=Q311717}} – northern city with a population of some 36,000, close to Ras Laffan LNG (liquified natural gas) terminal * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Al Shamal]]|wikidata=Q310872}} – this article covers the wider area of the northern municipality of Madinat ash Shamal * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Al Shahaniyah]]|wikidata=Q12188815}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Al Wakrah]]|wikidata=Q310893}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Dukhan]]|wikidata=Q3296633}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mesaieed]]|wikidata=Q1069900}} – industrial town south of Doha, and 25 km south of Wakra, with recreational activities on the coast, including the sand dunes of Khor Al Udeid (the Inland Sea) * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Umm Salal Mohammed]]|wikidata=Q3298627}} ==Other destinations== [[File:Fort Zubara, Qatar (2371639734).jpg|thumb|Zubarah Fort]] * {{marker|name=[[Zubarah]]|wikidata=}} - the ruins of a deserted city and a fort built in 1938 by Sheikh Abdu'llah bin Qasim Al-Thani ==Understand== Qatar has the world's third-largest natural-gas reserves, behind only Russia and Iran. Its oil reserves are similar in size to those of the [[United States of America]] but will last much longer because its production levels are only one-sixth the rate of that country. Its strategic position has also led to the explosive growth of its flag carrier Qatar Airways, which has turned [[Doha]] into one of the world's busiest air hubs. The Qatari government has also been diversifying its economy away from its traditional reliance on oil and natural gas, and has turned the country into one of the main education hubs of the Middle East. By most accounts its citizens are the wealthiest in the world, and the capital Doha and its suburbs sport an endless array of luxury shopping malls with everything the uber-rich could possibly want. Despite this wealth, Qatar is also heavily reliant on a vast underclass of poorly-paid migrant workers who are often horribly mistreated with no legal recourse against employer abuse. Because its Al Jazeera TV satellite networks broadcast throughout the globe in Arabic and English, Qatar is hugely influential despite its relatively small size. ===History=== There is evidence that shows the Qatar peninsula had been inhabited by Bedouin and Canaanite tribes from as early as 4000 BCE. While the museum houses a variety of artifacts including spearheads and pieces of pottery, there is little left of the structures that may have once existed. The Al-Jassassiya rock carvings north of Doha give some idea of how these tribes may have lived. More recently, some sandstone buildings and mosques were discovered, piquing the interest of archaeologists as they seek to discover what still lays beneath the sand. Emerging out of ancient history, Qatar was dominated by various Western and Eastern empires. The Ormus used the peninsula as a trading post and military port, until the Portuguese were able to extend their rule over the region. Neighbouring [[Bahrain]] eventually annexed the peninsula, until rebel movements and [[Britain|British]] intervention again made Qatar independent. Under pressure, Qatar became a part of the Ottoman Empire in 1871 before becoming a British protectorate at the close of World War I. Independence was declared from Britain peacefully in 1971. Since the accession of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani to the throne in 1995 after deposing his father in a coup, Qatar has transformed itself from a poor British protectorate noted mainly for its pearling industry into an independent state with significant oil and natural gas revenues, which enable Qatar to have the highest GDP per capita in the world. Qatar has become deeply involved in world affairs under the royal family, offering support in peacekeeping missions and UN-mandated wars such as that in the Gulf in 1991. Qatar also plays host to various world conferences, including those of the World Trade Organisation, the UN Climate Convention and various mediation bodies. It leaped onto the world stage with the development of the popular Al Jazeera news network and expansion of Qatar Airways to most of the world's continents, and is rapidly gaining interest among foreigners as it hosted the 2006 Asian Games and the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Since the rule of Sheikh Hamad, Qatar has also tried to move away from the Saudi sphere of influence in favor of a more independent foreign policy, resulting in tensions with its neighbors. ===People and culture=== Qatar's population can be broadly divided into three different groups. Qatari culture is largely based on the traditional Islamic Bedouin culture, and you will often see Qataris walking around in the traditional clothing. Men wear white clothing known as the thobe, while women wear black clothing known as the abaya. Today, Qatari citizens only comprise about 10% of the population. Slavery was historically integral to this society, and its legacy survives in the form a vast underclass of underpaid and often horribly mistreated migrant workers, mostly from [[South Asia]] and the [[Philippines]], who toil under gruelling conditions for their Qatari and Western masters, and comprise the vast majority of Qatar's population. The third group of people in Qatar are the Western expatriates, who are often used to project an appearance of modernity and progressivism onto to the outside world, often whitewashing the exploitation that this society is built on. Naturally, the three groups tend to clash, and informal segregation exists in this society, mostly designed to prevent foreign workers from mingling with Qataris. Compared to its main rival the United Arab Emirates, Qatar is somewhat more conservative, though it is generally more liberal that the other Arab Gulf states. While the [[Doha]] metropolitan area is modern and cosmopolitan, and is increasingly emerging as a rival to [[Dubai]] and [[Abu Dhabi]], locals continue to live a more traditional lifestyle in the smaller towns and rural areas, and expect behavior in accordance with it. ===Geography=== {{quickbar| location=LocationQatar.png}} Qatar is a peninsula that juts into the Persian Gulf. Most of the country consists of low barren plain covered with dunes. In the southeast of Qatar lies the Khor al Adaid, an area with sand dunes and an inlet from the Persian Gulf. ===Government=== Qatar is an absolute monarchy headed by the emir, who is from the Al-Thani family. While the country has rapidly modernised under the leadership of former emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, questions remain on the treatment of migrant workers from other parts of Asia, which many human rights groups describe as exploitative and slave-like. As in most other countries in the region, calls for reform and more democracy on the one hand, and a rising Islamist movement calling for a "purer" (i.e. more fundamentalist) interpretation of the Qur'an and Islam on the other hand, are a major factor in domestic politics. ===Economy=== Oil is a cornerstone of the Qatari economy; it used to account for more than 30% of GDP, roughly 80% of export earnings and 58% of government revenues. Proven oil reserves of 15 billion barrels should ensure continued output at current levels for at least the next 20 years. Oil and gas have given Qatar the highest GDP per capita by most studies. Qatar's proved reserves of natural gas exceed 7 trillion m³, more than 11% of the world's total, making it the third largest reserve in the world. Production and export of natural gas are becoming increasingly important. Qatar manages to post very high surpluses each year, and escaped the Global Financial Crisis relatively unscathed. In addition to the energy sector, Qatar also exports petrochemicals, cement and steel. Doha has a rapidly growing financial sector that is cementing itself as one of the centres of trade and finance within the Middle East. The Qatari government has also outlined its plan to boost tourism and media businesses on the peninsula, creating new sectors to further increase Qatar's profile. In addition, many foreign universities have set up outposts in Qatar, transforming Qatar into one of the main education hubs of the Middle East. As result of its oil and natural gas wealth, Qatar provides its citizens with one of the world's most comprehensive welfare states despite not levying any income tax on them. However, the country's large and often poorly-paid immigrant workforce is not given access to the welfare state. ===Climate=== {{climate chart |Doha |14.8 |22.6 |11.2 |15.8 |24.0 |10.6 |18.5 |27.7 |17.1 |23.0 |33.2 |6.0 |28.0 |39.4 |1.2 |30.5 |42.2 |0.0 |32.1 |42.4 |0.0 |31.8 |41.4 |0.0 |29.7 |39.2 |0.0 |26.5 |35.6 |2.8 |22.0 |29.7 |10.8 |17.2 |24.8 |17.6 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Doha]] |description= }} The climate of Qatar can be described as arid and unforgiving. In the summer, which runs from May through to September, the days are characterised by intense and humid heat, averaging 35°C but not unknown to peak at 50°C. In the winter, October to April, the days are much more bearable at about 20-25°C, with a nice cool evening down to around 15°C. If the heat is to be avoided, the best months to visit would be December, January, and/or February. Rainfall and storms in Qatar are extremely rare, forcing locals to retrieve water from newly-constructed desalination plants. However, huge sandstorms that envelop the peninsula are common in the summertime. These can be hazardous if not under shelter, and will descend the country into darkness as it blots out the hot sun above. There may also be disruptions to transportation and other services. ===Read=== * '''Allen J. Fromherz''', ''Qatar: A Modern History''. * '''Abdul Aziz Al Mahmoud''', ''The Corsair''. A debut novel about 19th-century piracy in the Persian Gulf, and the very first novel by a Qatari author. * '''Sophia Al-Maria''', ''The Girl Who Fell to Earth: A Memoir''. Written by a Qatari-American based in Doha, this is an entertaining account of a childhood spent trying to bridge the divide between Bedouin and American cultures. ===Visitor information === * [https://visitqatar.com/ Visit Qatar] website ==Talk== '''[[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]''' is the official language of Qatar although the majority of residents do not speak it. Expatriate workers from other parts of Asia and Africa far outnumber Qatari citizens, particularly in Doha. '''English''' is the ''lingua franca'', and most Qataris speak it to communicate with the foreign workers who work for them. Most retail workers are South Asians or Filipinos, not Qataris. Nevertheless, if you can learn to speak some Arabic, it would undoubtedly impress the locals. Qataris speak the Gulf dialect of Arabic. In Standard Arabic, the "Q" in Qatar is typically pronounced as a "k" but more at the back of the throat. That said, in the local Gulf dialect of Arabic, the initial consonant is usually pronounced like a hard "g", and the first "a" vowel is usually reduced to schwa. You may encounter foreign labourers speaking diverse languages such as [[Hindi]], [[Urdu]] and [[Tagalog]]. While you can get by just fine in Qatar with only English under your belt, your hosts and any other locals you may meet will be very impressed and appreciative if you can recite a few basic Arabic phrases. ==Get in== ===Entry requirements=== Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries ([[Bahrain]], [[Kuwait]], [[Oman]], [[Saudi Arabia]] and the [[United Arab Emirates]]) do not require a visa to enter Qatar, and may use National ID Cards to enter the country. They may also stay indefinitely with no restrictions including on employment. Citizens of [[Antigua and Barbuda]], [[Argentina]], [[Austria]], the [[Bahamas]], [[Belgium]], [[Bulgaria]], [[Croatia]], [[Cyprus]], [[Czech Republic]], [[Denmark]], [[Dominican Republic]], [[Estonia]], [[Finland]], [[France]], [[Germany]], [[Greece]], [[Hungary]], [[Iceland]], [[Italy]], [[Latvia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Lithuania]], [[Luxembourg]], [[Malaysia]], [[Malta]], the [[Netherlands]], [[Norway]], [[Poland]], [[Portugal]], [[Romania]], [[Serbia]], [[Seychelles]], [[Slovakia]], [[Slovenia]], [[Spain]], [[Sweden]], [[Switzerland]], [[Turkey]] and [[Ukraine]] can visit Qatar without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Citizens of [[Andorra]], [[Australia]], [[Azerbaijan]], [[Belarus]], [[Bolivia]], [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]], [[Brazil]], [[Brunei]], [[Canada]], [[Chile]], [[China]] (mainland), [[Colombia]], [[Costa Rica]], [[Cuba]], [[Ecuador]], [[Falkland Islands]], [[French Guiana]], [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]], [[Guyana]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Indonesia]], [[Ireland]], [[Japan]], [[Kazakhstan]], [[Lebanon]], [[Macau]], the [[Maldives]], [[Mexico]], [[Moldova]], [[Monaco]], [[Montenegro]], [[New Zealand]], [[North Macedonia]], [[Panama]], [[Paraguay]], [[Peru]], [[Russia]], [[San Marino]], [[Singapore]], [[South Africa]], [[South Korea]], [[Suriname]], [[Taiwan]], [[United Kingdom]] (British citizen only), [[Uruguay]], [[Vatican City]] and [[Venezuela]] may visit Qatar without a visa for up to 30 days. Citizens of the [[United States of America|United States]] may visit for up to 90 days without a visa. Citizens of [[India]], [[Iran]], [[Pakistan]], [[Thailand]] and [[Ukraine]] may also visit for up to 30 days without a visa provided they have a confirmed hotel booking through '''[https://www.discoverqatar.qa/mandatory-hotels-for-visa-on-arrival Discover Qatar]''' for their entire duration of stay. Booking your hotel through any other method will require you to obtain a visa in advance. Citizens of all nationalities who hold valid residence permits for the [[United Kingdom]], the [[United States of America|United States]], [[Canada]], [[Australia]], [[New Zealand]], the [[Europe|Schengen Area]], or GCC countries, or valid visas for the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or the Schengen Area may visit without a visa for up to 30 days. Regardless of nationality, travellers who are in transit through Hamad International Airport do not require a visa if they depart within 24 hours and remain within the airport. Free transit visas, which are valid for up to 96 hours (4 days) and allow travellers to briefly visit Qatar, are also issued to all passengers of any nationality transiting through Hamad International Airport, provided that they travel with Qatar Airways. For those needing visas, tourist visas are available online through the [http://portal.www.gov.qa/wps/portal/services/touristVisas/jointtouristvisa eVisa system], and you will need to have a sponsor from within Qatar. Visas are issued within four working days if all documents are submitted, and are valid for a stay period up to 30 days in Qatar. If you do not require a visa, you may opt to apply for an ETA, which will allow you to use the automated immigration gates on arrival. Qatar scrapped the previous requirement for those in the country on work visas to obtain an exit visa to leave for most people in 2020. Exit visas are now only required in very limited circumstances. See the [[Qatar#Work|Work]] section for more details. Qatar officially accepts Israeli passports (with the necessary visas) and passports with evidence of visits to Israel. ===By plane=== Entry by air into Qatar has boomed in the last decade. Most people visiting the country will enter via '''[[Hamad International Airport]]''' ({{IATA|DOH}}) near [[Doha]]. State-owned flag carrier '''[http://www.qatarairways.com Qatar Airways]''' has secured a huge network of flights operating out of its hub in [[Doha]] to 124 destinations. In fact, it is of the very few airports in the world with non-stop services to all inhabited continents. Other major airlines also serve the airport, usually running a route between Doha and their own hub in the base country. A taxi fare from the airport has a default tariff of QR&nbsp;25. ===By car=== The only land route to Qatar is from [[Saudi Arabia]]. There are plans for a major bridge to link Qatar with neighbouring Bahrain, although these are constantly delayed. Travel by car is not recommended. The roads between Qatar and other major cities/countries are poor. If you are travelling during the day, be cautious of speeding cars and trucks. ''Always'' wear your seat belt and do not speed over 50 mph (80 km/h). Travelling at night is risking your life, with poor visibility and semi-suicidal drivers. === By bus === Bus routes from Saudi Arabia (mostly used by men only) were disrupted in the 2017–2021 diplomatic crisis. Customs can take up to 4 hours especially at night. You will not be treated nearly as well as if you fly into Doha. Flying in costs only slightly more than a bus ticket. ===By boat=== There are no specific boat routes, but there are commercial freight boats coming into Doha from all over the world, as well as small commercial boats coming in from [[Dubai]] and [[Iran]]. ==Get around== Public transport comes in three forms in Qatar: buses, taxis and limousines, all of which are owned by government-owned Mowasalat (Karwa) apart from some private limousine companies. Within the capital, Doha, there's also a metro. === By bus === [[File:Doha Karwa public bus.jpg|thumbnail|Public Karwa bus]] The bus service began in October 2005. Ticketing is handled using a [https://www.mowasalat.com/English/Our-Services/Service-Catalog/KARWA-Smart-Card Karwa Smartcard], which comes in three types: * '''Smartcard Classic''' - Initial fee of QR30 with QR20 credit included. Journey prices vary, costing QR2.50 for a short ride. You must tap-in when you get on the bus, and tap-off when you get off to avoid a default QR30 penalty. Can be purchased in various retailers as listed on the Karwa website, but not on board buses. * '''Smartcard 24 Limited''' - An initial fee of QR10 allows 2 trips on the bus (one return trip) within 24 hours of first tapping-in. You only need to tap-in, and ''should not'' tap-off. Can be bought on board the bus for travel in Greater Doha only. * '''Smartcard 24 Unlimited''' - An initial fee of QR20 gives the user unlimited travel throughout Qatar within 24 hours of first tapping-in. Again, there is no necessity to tap-off. Can be bought aboard the bus. A large number of routes criss-cross the country, with the network stretching north to Al Khor, west to Dukhan, and as far south as Mesaieed. Timetable and ticketing information can be obtained by calling +974 4436 6053. === By taxi or limousine === [[File:Qatar, Dukhan Highway.JPG|thumbnail|Highway from Doha to Dukhan]] The government-owned Mowasalat also runs the taxi and limousine service. The taxis are easily spotted due to their uniform light blue colour with a maroon top. The initial fare on the meter is QR&nbsp;4, with an extra QR&nbsp;1.20 per kilometre within Doha and QR&nbsp;1.80 anywhere outside the capital. A trip to or from the airport has a single tariff of QR&nbsp;25. To ensure you are not scammed, some precautions should be noted: * For journeys within Doha the tariff should be set to '1', and those at night or outside of Doha should be set to '0'. * Check the meter is not tampered; signs of a tampered meter include tape and strips of paper around the outside. * By law, if a driver refuses to use the meter, the ride should be free. * There are occasional reports of unruly drivers locking the taxi doors or refusing to open the trunk until extra payment is made. If such an occurrence happens to you, attempt to leave the car. If not possible, calling the police on 999 should cause the driver to become very cooperative. The demand for taxis exceeds the supply and waiting times can vary greatly. Attempting to obtain one during morning business hours requires at least 24 hours notice, although even in practice this is unreliable, as the scheduled taxi often doesn't show up. At other times, it may take 90 minutes or more to get an on-call taxi, and hailing one on the street may be impossible much of the time. The only places where you are guaranteed to find a taxi are major malls, the airport and international hotels. Taxis can be booked and summoned by calling +974 4458 8888. An alternative to taxis and buses would be to use a limousine service, which will send an unmarked limo car to your location. They are expensive, but luxurious taxis with an initial fee of QR&nbsp;20, but do not always feature a meter. International limousine services, such as [[Uber]], [[Careem]], and [[Lyft]] are available in Qatar. The apps allow for quick and easy summoning of a driver. Occasionally, a local driver may offer you a lift if they see you waiting on the side of the road. It is customary to offer some money at the end, though usually they will refuse to take it. A driver offering a lift will slow down and flash their headlights at you; they can be summoned with a wave in response. Although the practice is safe, it is not advisable for solo women. === By metro === A metro opened in 2019 serving Doha and its suburbs. You can travel from point A to B for QR2 per person per trip or buy a day pass for QR6. However, if you are planning to use the metro very frequently, you can buy a metro card for QR30. Free metro link bus services are available from/to metro stations to/from nearby destinations. The metro opens at 06:00 and closes at 23:00. === By car === You can hire a car for about US$20 per day with local car rental companies. Plenty of them are located at the airport and Doha city centre, or else ask your hotel for some advice. ==See== For a comparatively small peninsula in the [[Middle East]], there is quite a lot to see in Qatar. === Historical monuments === [[File:Jebel Jassassiyeh boat carving?.jpg|thumbnail|Rock carvings at Al-Jassassiya]] The history-seeker will not be disappointed, with an assortment of ruins, cave art and museums to keep the mind wandering. Most famous is the archaeological site of [[Zubarah]], where there are the remains of what was once a thriving port city. An early '''20th-century fort''' on the site still stands as a museum, a testament to a bygone era. The [[Al-Jassassiya]] '''rock carvings''' in north-eastern Qatar are a remarkable site of 900 petroglyphs that are believed to date back to ancient tribes who inhabited the peninsula during the 15th century BCE. A number of forts and towers exist around the country; most of them have also been restored as museums. The '''Barzan Towers''' stand at the edge of the town of [[Umm Salal Mohammed]], erected to safeguard the country's rainwater basin. Another defensive watchtower stands in [[Al Khor]]. The popular '''Al Koot Fort''' is located in the heart of the capital Doha, with a wide variety of traditional handicrafts within. Others structures include Marwab Fort, Al Thughab Fort, Al Shaghab Fort, Al Rakiyat Fort, Al Wajbah Fort and the ruins of Al Yussoufiya Fort, Umm Al Maa Fort and Al Ghuwair Castle. The '''National Museum''' is housed in an impressive "desert rose stone" shaped building. There are a number of other museums across the country that specialise in history. The '''Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum''' in [[Al Shahaniya]] is the Sheikh's collection of relics, artefacts and art from Qatar, the Middle East and around the world. === Culture and tradition === === Nature and the land === === Modern attractions === [[File:The Pearl at Night (5540218048).jpg|thumbnail|Yachts docked at the Pearl]] * The Museum of Islamic Art, Doha * Souq Waqif: the traditional old marketplace of Qatar. Has many good restaurants, especially at night time. Also sells many national products - bargaining is recommended. Closed from 12:30 until 15:30, although in practice most shops don't reopen until 16:00 * The Pearl: a man-made island connected to Doha by a bridge. You can find a wide variety of restaurants and shops, mainly high-end. * Villaggio Mall: a spectacular Venetian style shopping mall with a canal and gondolas as well. A huge variety of shops from casual to luxury. * Mathaf: The Arab museum of modern art * Katara: "Cultural village" which is home to high-end international and Arab restaurants, a high-end shopping mall, a beach, an opera house, an amphitheatre, and an exhibition hall. It holds many cultural events. See the two small mosques. * Aqua park: Aquatic Funfair. * Qatar Mall: A huge mall with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. * Aspire park: A park next to Villaggio mall, it is reserved for families only on the weekend, visiting in the winter months is recommended. * MIA park: A park next to the museum of Islamic art, single people are allowed in, visiting in the winter months is recommended. ==Do== * A great activity for tourists is simply to experience the nation's tradition. The traditional Qatari way of life was simple: Bedouin nomads wandering the desert with their camels, and fisherman scouring the ocean floor for pearls to trade. While these two lifestyles are mostly extinct on the peninsula, the government has taken some measures to preserve their traditions for future generations to experience. * Many tour companies run '''desert expeditions''' by both four-wheel drive and camel. Some may just be for the day, while others can go for up to a week with trekkers camping overnight in a Bedouin tent. The one day "dune-bashing" tours simply involve speeding over the desert's endless dunes in a Landcruiser. * The '''pearling''' tradition has existed as far back as 2000 BCE, when Mesopotamian records speak of shining "fish eyes" imported from the Gulf region. While the industry went bust after the discovery of oil, a large festival is held each year to celebrate the tradition. The '''Qatar Marine Festival''' in Doha often includes a huge sea expedition by various ''dhow'' boats to find oyster beds on the ocean floor. Other activities at the festival include a musical performance, a seal show, a sandsculptor's expedition and a water, light and sound show. * Many companies offer '''shipwreck diving''' for tourists, which can be organised from Doha. Popular diving sites include the man-made Old Club Reef and New Club Reef just out of [[Messaied]], Qapco Reef, the M.O. Shipwreck and the Al Sharque Shipwreck. * Other popular '''watersports''' include kite-surfing, driving jet-skis, surfing and chartered fishing expeditions. * '''Football:''' Qatar will host the [https://www.the-afc.com/en/national/afc_asian_cup.html 2023 AFC Asian Cup] for men's national soccer teams, with 24 nations participating. It's held 12 Jan - 10 Feb 2024 to avoid searing summer temperatures. The venues are expected to be those used in Nov / Dec 2022 when Qatar hosted the FIFA World Cup. * '''[[Formula One]]''' or Grand Prix motor races that started in 2021 are held in November at Lusail Circuit 45 km north of Doha. It is always a night Grand Prix. ==Buy== Qatar can be expensive (an espresso in National Library is QR15), but it can also be very cheap (a good meal in a local restaurant is the same price). Touristy areas tend to be more expensive. Petrol is cheap. Prices are generally lower than in the United Arab Emirates. Keep in mind that the luxury shopping malls designate Fridays, weekends and public holidays as "family day" in order to prevent the migrant workers, who are mostly male and in Qatar without their families, from mingling with Qataris on their days off. While in theory "family day" is designated for women and families, and single men are supposed to be banned regardless of race or nationality, in practice Qatari and white men are admitted to these venues with no problem, while the restriction is only enforced for non-Qatari and non-white men. ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Qatari riyal | currencyCode=QR | date=January 2026 | USD=3.64 (fixed) | EUR=4.3 | GBP=4.9 | SAR=0.97 (fixed) | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/qar-qatari-riyal XE.com] }} [[File:Souq Waqif with Qataris in foreground.jpg|350px|thumb|The splendidly-restored Souq Waqif of Doha.]] The national currency is the '''Qatari riyal''', denoted by the symbol "'''ر.ق'''" or "'''QR'''" (ISO code: '''QAR'''). The riyal is pegged to the US dollar at the rate of QR3.64 to US$1. One riyal is divided into 100 dirhams, with coins issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 dirhams. The riyal is available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200 and 500 riyals. A new series of banknotes marked with a Qatari flag on the back was rolled out in 2020, and older notes are no longer accepted by merchants. Most banks will convert old notes into new notes free of charge, but the process can be time-consuming. It is fairly straightforward to change major world currencies within Qatar, along with the currencies of Bahrain, Saudia Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Rates are fairly similar between banks and moneychangers, with a large concentration of moneychangers near the Gold Souq of Doha. Banks are abundant across Doha, with branches in the larger cities as well. Traveler's cheques are accepted by the major banks. ===Shopping=== Qatar has many malls in which regular international brands such as H&M, Zara, and Mango. The biggest malls are Mall of Qatar, Festival City, and City Center. Middle Eastern and local brands are also present. There is no sales tax in Qatar, but prices are generally not cheap due to the high standard of living. The Pearl has luxurious brands from all over the world. It is the premium luxury shopping destination in Qatar. Blue Salon has huge sales twice a year where you can pick up Armani, Valentino and Cerutti suits for half price. There are many things to buy here but be wary of cheap pearls that have a high possibility of being fake. The many skilled tailors in Qatar make it a good place to have clothes made-to-fit. The souqs in the centre of Doha also have a lot to offer, although the goods are usually of cheaper quality than those of the malls. Prices are usually negotiable, so practice your bargaining skills. Souq Waqif (The Standing Souk) is the most interesting of the souqs; it has been renovated to look as it did 50 or 60 years ago. You can buy anything from a turban to a pot large enough to cook a baby camel in! Souqs are particularly good places to acquire spices such as saffron, and dried fruits such as black lemons, at moderate prices compared to most western countries. ==Eat== [[File:Machboos.JPG|thumbnail|The national dish machboos consists of rice with meat (on this plate chicken), onions and spices]] Qatar has seemingly endless options for food, much of it excellent. If you would like European cuisine in a fancy setting, visit a hotel like the Ramada or the Marriott, both of which also offer excellent sushi and the choice of having alcoholic drinks with your meal (the only restaurants in town that can do this are in the major hotels), but at a steep price. Authentic and delicious Indian and Pakistani food is found throughout the city, ranging from family-oriented places to very basic eateries catering to the Indian and Pakistani workers. You may attract some curious stares in the worker eateries, but the management will almost always be extremely welcoming, and the food is very inexpensive. Middle Eastern cuisine is everywhere as well, and in many forms—kebabs, breads, hummus, the list goes on. It can be purchased on the cheap from a take-out (many of which look quite unimpressive, but serve awesome food) or from a fancier place, like the wonderful Layali (near Chili's in the 'Cholesterol Corner' area) that serves gourmet Lebanese food and has hookahs with flavored tobacco. Refined Persian cuisine is available for reasonable prices in the royally appointed Ras Al-Nasa`a Restaurant on the Corniche (don't miss the cathedral-like rest rooms). Traditional Qatari food is very hard to find in restaurants, and largely confined to the homes of locals. If you have Qatari friends, being invited to their homes is generally the best chance you'll get to sample the local cuisine. Qatari food is traditionally eaten by hand, and the most important thing to remember is to '''use only your right hand''', as the left hand is reserved for handling dirty things. Don't be afraid to venture into the souqs looking for a meal; it will be a unique experience in an authentic setting, and although some of the places you see may look rundown, that's just the area in general, and the food will be probably be quite good. Many of the restaurants in the souqs (as well as the shops) shut down during the afternoon hours. If you are in a funny kind of mood, you can try a McArabia—McDonald's Middle Eastern sandwich available only in the region. It is '''illegal''' to eat in public in the daytime during Ramadan, and restaurants and cafes are forbidden from serving dine-in customers during that period. However, restaurants may still sell takeaway meals for non-Muslim foreigners to take home for consumption in private. However, if you can tide yourself over the restrictions, the evening ''iftar'' meals are often elaborate affairs, but be sure to make reservations with the restaurants way in advance as these are extremely popular with the locals. ===Dietary restrictions=== Virtually all food sold in Qatar is '''halal'''. Pork is not served at any restaurants, but is available at inflated prices to non-Muslim foreign residents with a liquor license at the two liquor stores in Doha run by the Qatar Distribution Company (QDC). This license is not available to tourists. ==Drink== It's fair to say nobody comes to Qatar for the nightlife. The sale of alcoholic beverages is restricted to restaurants, bars and nightclubs at the major hotels, and they are quite pricey to boot. Driving under the influence and public intoxication carry heavy penalties, including deportation. It is forbidden to bring alcohol into the country as a tourist; at Hamad International Airport, customs x-ray bags and will confiscate any bottles of alcoholic drinks. They will issue a receipt valid for two weeks to reclaim the alcohol on exit from the country. The only liquor stores in Qatar are run by the Qatar Distribution Company (QDC), which has two locations, both in Doha. To purchase things there, you must have a license, which requires a residency permit (visitors are not eligible) and a written letter of permission from your employer that also confirms that your basic salary is at least QR3000 per month. The selection is good and is like any alcohol selection of a large supermarket in the West. Prices are reasonable although not cheap. As far as non-alcoholic drinks go, be sure to hit some of the Indian and Middle Eastern restaurants and juice stalls. They whip up some tasty and exotic fruit juice combinations that really hit the spot. The national drink of Qatar is the '''Karak Tea'''. It is available at many roadside cafeterias and restaurants. The biggest and most famous place to offer the Karak Tea is Tea Time, which has branches all over Qatar. Ask your taxi driver for the nearest Tea Time to experience the traditional Qatari Tea. '''Arabic coffee''', which is popular throughout the Middle East, is also very popular among local Qataris. ==Sleep== [[File:Sunset at Shamal beach-Qatar.JPG|thumbnail|Sunset at Shamal beach]] A cheap hotel starts at about QAR130. A mid-range hotel is about QAR300. Budget accommodation does not seem to exist in Doha. The only [https://hi-qatar.com/ hostel] is ''very'' hard to find; even the taxi drivers at the airport may have to talk it over! It costs QR100 per night if you don't have YHA membership, QR90 if you do. ==Learn== Education City is a new project in Doha funded by the Qatari Government through the Qatar Foundation. It is the home to Qatar Academy, the Learning Centre, the Academic Bridge Program (similar to a college prep school), as well as branch campuses of Texas A&M University (Engineering) [http://www.qatar.tamu.edu/]{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, Weill Cornell Medical College (Medical) [http://www.qatar-med.cornell.edu/], Virginia Commonwealth University (Arts and Communication), Carnegie Mellon University (Business and Computer Science), Georgetown University (School of Foreign Service), and the latest addition to the fold, Northwestern University (Journalism) [http://www.qatar.northwestern.edu/] and Faculty of Islamic Studies all located in Education City to the east of Doha in the Rayyan area. In addition to this Education City is home to the Qatar Science and Technology Park, one of the only places in the Middle East undertaking research and development initiatives. The location of so many academics and students is very appealing for research focused organisations. Lastly, Education City is also home to the newly opened Qatar National Library building. The College of the North Atlantic (based in Newfoundland, Canada), also maintains a campus in Doha in the northern section of the city, near the local Qatar University. The University of Calgary (Nursing) is also in Qatar. ==Work== You will need a work visa to be able to work in Qatar, and receiving one will require a Qatari sponsor to apply on your behalf. The previous system requiring foreigners working in Qatar to get an exit permit to leave was largely scrapped in 2020. Now only people who work for the Qatari military, or those in very specific positions in a company are required to obtain an exit visa to leave. In the latter case, the company will have to submit your name to the government in advance with appropriate justification on why you should be required to get an exit visa to leave, and the number of people who are required to get an exit visa to leave is capped at no more than 5% of each company's total workforce. The work day starts quite early in Qatar. Do not be surprised by 7AM meetings! In the summer, many small stores and Arab businesses will be open from 08:00-12:00 and 16:00-20:00. During the "siesta", most people return home to escape the oppressive heat. Qatar has begun to issue permanent residence visas, after the boycott by neighbouring countries; but foreigners who wish to stay permanently and have good relationships with locals of significant clout have been known to retire in Qatar while nominally on a work visa. Foreign women may obtain citizenship by being married to a Qatari man (but ''not'' foreign men married to Qatari women), but otherwise obtaining citizenship is next to impossible for foreigners. Citizenship may also be granted by decree from the Emir if one has made extraordinary contributions to the country. ==Stay safe== [[File:Noche en Qatar (8121792118).jpg|thumbnail|Nighttime traffic in Doha]]The emergency phone number for police, ambulance or fire department is '''999'''. Qatar is generally a very safe country for tourists, with crime rates among the lowest in the world. Western women travelling on their own sometimes experience staring from local men, along with other unwanted curiosity. However, this is more of an annoyance than a threat, and Qatari police deal harshly with any complaint of harassment. If you want to fit in better with the locals and attract less stares, a long, black cloak and headscarf worn by local women called the ''abaya'' can be purchased at a variety of places in Doha. Travelling on the roads is probably the largest danger to your wellbeing. Although they are safer than most other Asian and Middle Eastern drivers, Qataris often ignore road rules and are intolerant of pedestrians attempting to cross the road. Be safe when walking near or over major highways. Dust storms and sandstorms are another major issue, being common throughout the dry summer. These natural events can shroud the country in darkness and cause severe respiratory issues. If a sandstorm is approaching, immediately seek shelter or wear a facemask. Qatar is not a gay-friendly country, and homosexuality is theoretically punishable by the death penalty (though rarely enforced). Gay visitors are advised to be discreet about their sexual orientation and avoid public displays of affection. Although in other countries, you might record an interaction with police or a party that you're having a dispute with to protect your safety or interests, recording without consent is illegal in Qatar and punishable by a maximum of three years in prison and/or a fine of QAR 100,000. Qatar is a Gulf State and may be affected during times of heightened tensions in the Middle East, and there is often a heightened risk when travelling to or being within Qatar, during times of crisis. It is important to keep up to date with the latest news and updates from local authorities. Take shelter when told to. Qatar hosts U.S bases and may be a target, in times of crisis. Terrorist attacks have been threatened on Gulf countries and cannot be ruled out, especially threats to carry out attacks on Western interests. ==Stay healthy== The quality of Qatari hospitals is generally on par with Western standards. Qatari citizens are provided with free healthcare under the government's national health insurance scheme, but this is not available to foreigners. Foreign residents are generally required to purchase private health insurance as part of their visa conditions. Drink lots of water and take proper precautions for the sun, including clothing that covers your skin and sunscreen. '''[[Tap water]]''' is potable, but most residents choose to drink bottled water just in case. ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} Qataris share a common culture with Arabs in North Africa and other Middle Eastern countries; therefore, what is considered good manners in the rest of the Arab world is applicable to Qatar. Qataris are neither Bahrainis, Emiratis, nor Saudis; referring to a Qatari as either of those will demonstrate that you have no idea what continent you're on. Also, do not compare Qatar to Bahrain, the UAE or Saudi Arabia. Be careful with your words — honour (saving face) is an important part of Qatari culture and it forms the basis of social interactions in the country. Under current Qatari laws, you can be prosecuted for insulting, making fun of, or defaming someone in public or on social media. Qataris will not hesitate to react angrily if you do anything that makes them lose face. If you have an issue with a Qatari person, talk to them behind closed doors. Do not take photos of people without consent, especially women. Western-style street photography and guerilla shots are highly frowned upon. Almost all Qatari men will refuse to provide consent for a portrait, and taking photos of a Qatari woman is an offensive act. Although enforcement is lax in touristic areas, Qatar has strict privacy laws that disallow capturing and using photos of others without consent. If confronted, apologize profusely, visibly delete the photo in front of them, and most will drop the matter entirely without involving authorities. Outside of touristic spots, do not take photos of religious buildings (including mosques and churches), government buildings, infrastructure (with the exception of dhow moors and art within Doha Hamad International Airport), and other sensitive areas. Mosques and the state museums have a dress code. For men, shoulders and knees should be covered. In practice this is not strictly enforced: you will be let in if your shorts show your knees, but short shorts are not acceptable. Women are expected to wear an abaya, and this is generally lent out at no cost if required, when entering the female entrance. Respect the Islamic beliefs of Qataris and Bedouins: While there is no legal requirement to wear the hijab, women shouldn't wear tube tops and skimpy outfits. It is absolutely acceptable for any nationality to wear the traditional Qatari clothes, the thobe. Don't expose the bottoms of your feet to a Qatari when dining. Don't eat with your left hand either, since the left hand is seen as the 'dirty hand'. Similarly, don't attempt to shake hands or hand a package with your left hand. If your Qatari friend insists on buying you something—a meal or a gift—let them! Qataris are extremely hospitable, and typically there are no strings attached. It is generally a custom to argue for the bill. During Ramadan, do not eat, drink or smoke in public. It is illegal and highly disrespectful to locals and Muslims visiting or residing in the country. The laws are nowhere near as strict as those of Saudi Arabia, but you could still get in trouble with the police. '''Business cards''' should always be given and received using only your '''right hand'''. Using the left hand is very disrespectful, as it is considered unclean. ==Cope== ===Newspapers=== * [http://www.gulf-times.com/ Gulf Times] newspaper * [http://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com/ The Peninsula] newspaper * [https://iloveqatar.net/news I Love Qatar] Community News * [http://www.al-watan.com/ Al Watan] Arabic newspaper * [https://samagraidgyaan.com/ Qatar Tribune] * [https://moiqatar.net/ Moi Qatar] ==Connect== You can get by for a few days without a SIM card. Free WiFi is available at many of the museums and art galleries. Download the map of Qatar in Google Maps for when you are on the move and offline. ===By phone=== When calling from abroad, the country code of Qatar is '''974'''. There are no city or area codes. When calling overseas while within Qatar, the international access code is usually '''0'''. Qatari phone numbers now have eight digits. Previously, they contained seven, but this was changed by the government regulator in 2010. If you encounter a number with only seven digits, you can still use it by repeating the first digit. For example, a phone number that previously began with '3' would now start with '33'. Qtel, a government-owned company, used to hold a monopoly over telecommunications in the country. Although this changed in 2006 when the Emir allowed new companies to be formed, competition is still weak with only two major operators: *'''[http://www.ooredoo.qa/en/home Ooredoo]{{Dead link}}''' (formerly ''Qtel'') - the "Hala" prepaid starter pack costs QR&nbsp;50 with QR&nbsp;25 of initial credit. International calls to most countries costs QR&nbsp;0.66/minute. Has overall better coverage than Vodafone. *'''[http://www.vodafone.qa/en Vodafone Qatar]''' - prepaid sim packs start from QR&nbsp;60 with an initial credit of QR&nbsp;35. International calls to most countries costs QR&nbsp;0.66/minute. ===By post=== Qatar has a fairly efficient postal system run by '''[http://www.qpost.com.qa/ Q-Post]{{Dead link|date=February 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. There are dozens of post offices scattered across Doha, along with branches in many major cities. It costs QR2.50 to send a standard postcard to most Western countries. The price drops down to QR1-1.50 when sending a postcard domestically or to most nations within the Middle East and North Africa. Sending parcels can get costly, being counted per kilogram and by distance. A full list of rates and branch locations can be found on the [http://www.qpost.com.qa/ Q-Post website]{{Dead link|date=February 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. All mail to Qatar are typically sent to a PO Box, with no post codes used. Delivery to a street address is limited and is an optional service for an additional cost to PO box holders. Addresses to Qatar should be formatted as: :Name of recipient :Name of company or organization if relevant :PO Box xxxx :CITY :COUNTRY An example: :John Doe :Qatar Airways-I.T. Dept. :PO Box 2250 :DOHA :QATAR {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|25.3000|51.5167|zoom=8}} {{isPartOf|Middle East}} ebkdu1vblyearbrm7qglm8j9tu0qi35 0 29101 5288968 5279228 2026-06-07T03:35:36Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Semi-high-speed trains */ 5288968 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Rail travel in India.jpg|ftt=yes}} {{RailTravelAsia}} The rail network of [[India]] is the third largest in the world, and the rail system is efficient, if not always on schedule. Tracks running well over 60,000 km help connect over 7,500 stations, ferrying nearly 20 million people every day. Although distances in India are long and Indian trains aren't the world's best, travelling on them can add a fascinating new dimension to a visitor's experience. There is virtually no better way to make friends with the local people and see the spectacular and diverse Indian countryside. On many routes the railways are the fastest and cheapest way to get around. All trains in the national network in India are operated by the government-run '''Indian Railways''' ('''IR'''). ==Understand== [[File:Indian Railways network-en.svg|thumb|upright=1.1|A schematic map of India's rail network (as of 2019)]] ===History=== {{Mapframe|width=360|height=400|name=Map of rail travel in India}} India's first commercial railway service began on 16th April 1853 at 3:35PM on its first run between Bori Bunder (in [[Mumbai]], present-day Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) and [[Thane]]. On 15 August 1854, Eastern India's first passenger train ran from [[Howrah]] (near [[Kolkata]]) to [[Hooghly (district)|Hooghly]]. Back then, most railways in India were built by different private companies, and all of them were taken over by the government in 1944. There used to be several different track gauges across the country. However, since 1992, most tracks are converted to broad gauge ({{convert|1676|mm|ftin|abbr=on|disp=or}}). Still, you can enjoy the narrow-gauge "toy trains" in mountainous areas (see [[#Mountain trains]] below). ===Websites=== There are several websites of the Indian Railways (IR). * [https://indianrailways.gov.in/ Main website] – it's in Hindi by default, and you have to switch to English * [https://www.indianrail.gov.in/ Indian Railway Passenger Reservation Enquiry] * [https://www.irctc.co.in/ Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (IRCTC) ==Trains== [[File:MGR Chennai Central Mysuru Jn Vande Bharat Express.jpg|thumb|Chennai Central–Mysore Vande Bharat Express, one of the fastest trains in India.]] There are a variety of trains in India, depending on the route you travel and whether you travel during the day or overnight. The more expensive and luxurious trains are as a rule air-conditioned, stop only at major stations, only have reserved seats or beds and in general offer passengers more space. In contrast, the cheaper services are slower, often have no air-conditioning and include non-reserved compartments. With a wide range of trains and accommodation types, you have the choice of travelling in a first-class compartment comparable to first class in a western country, in a more down-to-earth (and likely more adventurous) way or something in between. If you are looking for a really luxurious experience, there are several luxury trains touring popular destinations around India. The IR uses two types of coaches. ICF coaches were the mainstay of IR passenger services. As they were developed in the 1950s, they were rather antiqued and have interior facilities worn-out. LHB coaches, which were developed in the 2000s, are largely air-conditioned (except Deen Dayalu coaches) and have better interior facilities. LHB coaches are often identified with its red and grey or blue and grey colours. In general, LHB coaches are more comfortable than ICF coaches. As of 2023, Rajdhani Express, Tejas Express and Shatabdi Express trains use LHB coaches, Duronto Express and Jan Shatabdi Express trains vary, Vande Bharat Express trains have their own coaches and the rest are most likely using ICF coaches. IR has some newer coaches (usually updated chair cars) and faster services (listed below) that make riding the rails more appealing compared to flying. These trains tend to be more comfortable and faster than other trains, however, they aren't as common as other services. ===Regular trains=== [[File:Lucknow tejas Express standing at New Delhi station.jpg|thumb|New Delhi–Lucknow Tejas Express]] All regular trains in India are either superfast express, express/mail, fast passenger, passenger or local/EMU trains. Don't get too excited by the term ''superfast''; it merely means that the train has an average speed of at least 55 km/h, and therefore the "superfast surcharge" is added to the ticket price. Also, many regular trains are named with [[Hindi]] words, so pronunciations and translations are provided in brackets along with the train's name. The broad hierarchy from luxurious to normal is as follows: ====Semi-high-speed trains==== These are among the fastest and most luxurious trains of IR, running at speeds up to {{km/h|130-160}}. They are almost always on schedule, and get priority over other trains on their respective routes. For example, with a journey time of 8 hours, the New Delhi–Varanasi Vande Bharat Express is the fastest train to connect these two important cities; all other trains take at least 12 hours on this route. These trains feature air-conditioning, premium catering, and modern onboard facilities with doors which are operated automatically. * {{listing | name=Vande Bharat Sleeper Express | alt=''vuhn-DAY B^HAH-ruht'', "Praise India Sleeper Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Vande Bharat Sleeper Express | wikidata=Q130318422 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Self-propelled [[sleeper trains]], operating on one route (Howrah–Kamakhya). }} * {{listing | name=Vande Bharat Express | alt=''vuhn-DAY B^HAH-ruht'', "Praise India Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Vande Bharat Express | image=Vande Bharat Express around Mumbai.jpg | wikidata=Q57954014 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Self-propelled daytime intercity trains with no sleeper coaches that connect important cities in a region, for example two adjacent states' capitals, and returning to their origin station the same day. They operate on 79 routes. }} * {{listing | name=Gatimaan Express | alt=''guh-tih-MAHN'', "Dynamic Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Gatiman Express | image=Gatimaan express.jpg | wikidata=Q19891551 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=India’s first semi-high-speed train, launched in April 2016. It operates on only one route (Delhi–Jhansi), and is usually less crowded than the VB trains. }} * {{listing | name=Tejas Rajdhani Express | alt=''TAY-juhss rahj-D^HAH-nee'', "Brilliance Capital Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tejas Rajdhani Express | wikidata=Q133258484 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Long-distance overnight trains that run on the seven routes between the national capital ([[New Delhi]]) and regional state capitals. }} * {{listing | name=Tejas Express | alt=''TAY-juhss'', "Brilliance Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tejas Express | image=Rajendra B.Aklekar.jpg | wikidata=Q27894564 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Daytime intercity trains with no sleeper coaches, operating on 4 routes, with the New Delhi–Lucknow route being operated by IRCTC. }} ====Classic premium trains==== The original premium tier before the introduction of semi-high-speed trains. They are generally fully air-conditioned, and they operate with high track priority. * {{listing | name=Rajdhani Express | alt=''rahj-D^HAH-nee'', "Capital Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Rajdhani Express | image=12309 Rajdhani Express - AC 1st Class - H1.jpg | wikidata=Q379605 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Fully air-conditioned overnight trains that run on the 19 routes between the national capital ([[New Delhi]]) and regional state capitals. All meals are provided. }} * {{listing | name=Shatabdi Express | alt=''shuh-TAHB-dee'', "Century Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Shatabdi Express | image=WAP5 ^30014 of Ghaziabad with 12004 Swarn Shatabdi - Flickr - Dr. Santulan Mahanta.jpg | wikidata=Q379738 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Fully air-conditioned daytime intercity trains with no sleeper coaches that connect important cities in a region, for example two adjacent states' capitals, and returning to their origin station the same day. They operate on 22 routes. }} * {{listing | name=Duronto Express | alt=''du-RAWN-toh'', "Powerful Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Duronto Express | image=12290 Nagpur Duronto Express at Mumbai CST station.jpg | wikidata=Q428670 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Long-distance point-to-point trains that directly connect, with few or no stops, cities that are far apart. They run on faster time profile than standard express trains, with high track priority. These trains have both AC and sleeper (non-AC) accommodations. They operate on 24 routes. }} * {{listing | name=Uday Express | alt=''u-DIGH'', "Rise Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Uday Express | wikidata=Q39054829 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Short for "'''U'''tkrisht ["Superior"] '''D'''ouble Decker '''A'''ir Conditioned '''Y'''atri ["Passenger"] Express", these are fully air-conditioned premium double-decker trains, operating on only two routes (Guntur–Visakhapatnam and Bengaluru–Coimbatore). }} ====Fully reserved budget trains==== * {{listing | name=Humsafar Express | alt=''HUHM-suh-fuhr'', "Co-Passenger Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Humsafar Express | image=Humsafar exp at Kamakhya Jn.jpg | wikidata=Q27985080 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Fully air-conditioned trains at the transition between premium and regular express trains, featuring modern side-curtains, beverage vending machines and CCTV. They operate on 43 routes. Some Humsafar coaches are used in other semi-reserved trains, so don't get misled! }} * {{listing | name=Garib Rath Express | alt=''guh-REEB ruht^h'', "Poor's Chariot Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Garib Rath Express | image=12113 Garib Rath Express at Nagpur.jpg | wikidata=Q5523292 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Fully air-conditioned superfast overnight trains that offer more seats per coach at a lower fare, operating on 26 routes. These are not as punctual as other trains mentioned above and not as luxurious. The track priority is also lower than the trains mentioned above. }} * {{listing | name=Jan Shatabdi Express | alt=''juhn shuh-TAHB-dee'', "People's Century Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Jan Shatabdi Express | image=12072 Janshatabdi Express at Dadar station.jpg | wikidata=Q6149896 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Superfast daytime intercity trains offering both air-conditioned and sitting accommodation, operating on 27 routes. Jan Shatabdi Express are usually very punctual, and are intended to be an economical version of the Shatabdi Express. While their route priority is below all the trains mentioned above, they still have higher priority than all the trains lower on this list. }} * {{listing | name=Double Decker Express | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Double Decker Express | image=Rajendra B. Aklekar AC Double Deck.jpg | wikidata=Q24088471 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Fully air-conditioned double-decker trains, operating on five routes. }} * {{listing | name=AC Express | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=AC Express (Indian Railways) | wikidata=Q25203225 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Regular express trains with only air-conditioned coaches. They operate on 28 routes. }} ====Semi-reserved trains==== [[File:LHB coaches of Golden Temple Mail.jpg|thumb|An LHB coach of the Golden Temple Mail.]] * {{listing | name=Sampark Kranti Express | alt=''SUHM-puhrk KRAHN-tee'', "Connection Revolution Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sampark Kranti Express | wikidata=Q12068123 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Superfast sleeper trains that run between the national capital ([[New Delhi]]) and regional state capitals, operating on 23 routes. They are cheaper than Rajdhanis, and are named after the respective states or regions served by them instead of specific stations. }} * {{listing | name=Amrit Bharat Express | alt=''UHM-riht B^HAH-ruht'', "Immortal India Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Amrit Bharat Express | image=Amrit Bharat Express trainset.jpg | wikidata=Q123252214 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Superfast non-air-conditioned [[sleeper trains]], operating on 32 routes. }} * {{listing | name=Express or Mail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Express trains in India | wikidata=Q5421693 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=With train numbers starting with 1 or 2, these ubuquitous express and mail trains have both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned carriages, including both sitting and sleeper accommodation, and stop at major railway stations. }} * {{listing | name=Fast Passenger | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Slow and fast passenger trains in India | image=Azimganj bound 53028 (MLDT-AZ) Passenger.jpg | wikidata=Q5436979 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=These trains mainly have non-air-conditioned carriages, including both unreserved sitting (mostly) and sleeper (sometimes) accommodation. }} ====Unreserved long-distance trains==== These trains usually get the least importance compares to express trains, and thus subject to massive delays. Those who are not accustomed to it are advised not to travel in those trains as it might be quite troublesome for them to alight from the train at the correct station after pushing through a large crowd of other passengers. * {{listing | name=Antyodaya Express | alt=''uhn-TYOH-digh'', "Rise of Dusk Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Antyodaya Express | image=Antyodaya Express coach.jpg | wikidata=Q30593775 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Superfast trains, operating on 13 routes. }} * {{listing | name=Jan Sadharan Express | alt=''juhn SAH-d^hah-ruhnn'', "Common People's Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Jan Sadharan Express | wikidata=Q28921355 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Older non-superfast trains, operating on seven routes. }} ====Short-distance trains==== [[File:Mumbai 03-2016 57 Sewri station.jpg|thumb|A local train at Sewri, [[Mumbai]]]] * {{listing | name=Namo Bharat Rapid Rail | alt=''nuh-MOH B^HAH-ruht'', "Bow to India Rapid Rail" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Namo Bharat Rapid Rail | wikidata=Q124528245 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Fully air-conditioned semi-high-speed short-distance intercity EMU trains, operating on two routes. }} * {{listing | name=Passenger or MEMU/DEMU | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Slow and fast passenger trains in India | image=Azimganj bound 53028 (MLDT-AZ) Passenger.jpg | wikidata=Q5436979 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=These trains have only non-air-conditioned carriages offering only unreserved sitting accommodation. They stop at all stations on their route, excluding the ones on suburban routes. }} * {{listing | name=Local or EMU | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Suburban rail in India | wikidata=Q7632407 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=These trains offer both sitting accommodation as well as standing room and grab rails and operate within and around big cities. They are often crowded but are generally the fastest and cheapest way to get around cities which have them. IR runs local trains on suburban routes in [[Chennai]], [[Delhi]], [[Hyderabad]], [[Kolkata]], [[Mumbai]] and [[Pune]]. }} === Mountain trains === [[Image:DHR 780 on Batasia Loop 05-02-21 08.jpeg|thumb|A DHR train on the Batasia Loop near Ghum]] Indian Railways operate narrow-gauge trains to various hill stations in India. Travelling on them is a delightful experience, with the tiny trains passing through tunnels, over bridges, around curves and loops amid spectacular scenery. The first three of the four mentioned below are {{unesco}}s. * {{listing | name=[[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]] | alt=DHR | url=http://dhr.in.net/ | email=dhroffice.kurseong@gmail.com | address= | lat=27.045000 | long=88.267222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Darjeeling Himalayan Railway | image=Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Diesel Locomotive.jpg | wikidata=Q463874 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=Winding its way over the steep and torturous foothills of the Himalayas, the "toy train" takes six hours to cover the {{km|83}} distance from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Station in [[Siliguri]] to [[Darjeeling]]. Completed in 1883, the railway follows the road (and mostly shares the same bed) and uses an interesting system of reverses (the trains climbs into a sliding and then goes into reverse to climb up the next section of the hill, sort of like a sideways V) and loops (the track loops around and crosses itself) to navigate the steep climb. '''Batasia Loop''', at a tor point near Darjeeling just beyond the town of Ghum, is the most famous because of its great views. }} * {{listing | name=[[Shimla#Q7171560|Kalka–Shimla Railway]] | alt=KSR | url=http://www.kalkashimlarailway.in/ | email= | address= | lat=31.104605 | long=77.173424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kalka–Shimla Railway | image=KSR Steam special at Taradevi 05-02-13 56.jpeg | wikidata=Q7171560 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=The railway from Kalka to [[Shimla]] was completed in 1903, the final stage in the connection of [[Kolkata|Calcutta]] (Kolkata), then the winter capital of British India, with Simla, then the summer capital. The {{km|96}} railway line runs through the magnificent scenery of the Shivalik Hills, up valleys ringed by high mountains, across 864 stone bridges built like Roman viaducts, and through 107 tunnels, the longest {{m|1144}} in length. }} * {{listing | name=[[Ooty#The Mountain Railway|Nilgiri Mountain Railway]] | alt=NMR | url=https://www.irctctourism.com/gallery/nilgiri.html | email= | address= | lat=11.344317 | long=76.791944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Nilgiri Mountain Railway | image=NMR up train at Kateri Road 05-02-28 04.jpeg | wikidata=Q463735 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=The steepest mountain railway in India, the NMR climbs the {{ft|6159}} from [[Mettupalayam]] to [[Ooty|Udhagmandalam]] (Ooty) over a distance of {{km|46}}, with gradients of 1:12 in some stretches. Completed in 1899, it is the only railway in India to use a rack and pinion system to climb the steep gradient. The train passes through 16 tunnels, over 250 bridges and around 205 sharp curves, with the breathtaking scenery of the Nilgiri Hills visible all along the way. }} * {{listing | name=[[Kangra#Q744580|Kangra Valley Railway]] | alt=KVR | url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/5919/ | email= | address= | lat=31.989158 | long=76.789485 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kangra Valley Railway | image=Kangra Valley train.jpg | wikidata=Q744580 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=This narrow-gauge, British-built train, also called ''Kangra Toy Train'', from 1929 crawls 128 km from [[Pathankot]] main station through stunning scenery to [[Jogindernagar]] (6 hr) via [[Palampur]] and [[Kangra]] (93 km, 4 hr, ₹20) (near [[Dharamsala]]). About six daily departures of slow, often packed second class trains make the trip. (The luxury Kangra Queen service is no more.) Some head only to the penultimate stop of Baijnath Paprola, though all serve the main towns of interest: Kangra and Palampur. }} ===Luxury trains=== [[File:Palace on Wheels Jaipur.jpg|thumb|The Palace on Wheels at [[Jaipur]]]] [[File:Deccan Odyssey - Coach - Parampara.jpg|thumb|A Deccan Odyssey carriage]] [[File:GKN Golden Chariot DSC 0730.JPG|thumb|The Golden Chariot]] One of the luxurious ways to explore the most prominent tourist destinations and attractions in India is to opt for [[tourist trains|luxury train travel]]. The history of luxury train travel in India dates back to the days of the maharajas who used to travel in opulent personal carriages. In 1982, the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) launched the Palace on Wheels in collaboration with Indian Railways to revive the art of elegant traveling in India. The Palace on Wheels was launched to promote tourism in Rajasthan and cater exclusively to the overseas traveler and offer them a hassle free, all-inclusive and opulent option of traveling to the royal destinations in Rajasthan. Nowadays there are a total of 6 luxury trains plying different routes and offering a total of 11 pre-packaged itineraries. * {{listing | name=The [[Palace on Wheels]] | alt= | url=https://palaceonwheels.rajasthan.gov.in/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=The all-inclusive prices of the Palace on Wheels start from US$864 per person per night on double occupancy basis in the off-peak season and US$976 for the same in peak season (October–March) | wikipedia=Palace on Wheels | image=Palace on Wheels Jaipur.jpg | wikidata=Q3273401 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=Although the history of luxury train travelling in India dates back to the time of maharajas during the days of British Raj, the modern history of this mode of transport dates back to 1982 with the introduction of India’s first luxury train. It was introduced as a joint venture of the RTDC and the Indian Railways to promote [[Rajasthan]] as a global tourist destination. The venture turned out to be a great success among overseas travellers and a few decades later more such train journeys followed. The Palace on Wheels does an eight-day loop from [[New Delhi]] with stops and tours in [[Jaipur]], [[Ranthambore]], [[Chittorgarh]], [[Udaipur]], [[Jaisalmer]], [[Jodhpur]], [[Bharatpur]], and [[Agra]]. The train is equipped with Wi-Fi, TV, dining cars, bar & sitting lounge, guest cabins with attached bathroom and even a spa. }} * {{listing | name=The Royal Orient | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Royal Orient | wikidata=Q5977417 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=The second luxury train introduced in India after the huge success of Palace on Wheels in Rajasthan. It is a joint initiative of the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat and the Indian Railways to promote tourism in [[Gujarat]]. The Royal Orient starts from Delhi Cantonment and operates between September and April, starting every Wednesday of the week. It provides an eight day and seven night tour, and has stops at [[Chittorgarh]], [[Jaipur]], [[Udaipur]], [[Ahmedabad]], [[Mehsana]], [[Junagadh]], [[Veraval]], [[Mandvi]], [[Dilwara]], [[Palitana]] and [[Sarkhej]]. }} * {{listing | name=The Deccan Odyssey | alt= | url=https://www.deccan-odyssey-india.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=The fare starts from US$9330 per person for a 7 nights / 8 days journey, deluxe cabin | wikipedia=Deccan Odyssey | image=Deccan-Odyssey.jpg | wikidata=Q4382846 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=A joint initiative of the Maharashtra State Tourism Development Corporation (MSTDC) and the Indian Railways to promote tourism in [[Maharashtra]]. The itinerary of this luxury rail tour was designed to offer the cultural and historical insights to the guest at some of the most significant destinations in Maharashtra. The 7 nights/8 days itinerary beginning from [[Mumbai]] crisscrosses some of the most mesmerizing landscape along the verdant Western Ghats and the Konkan Coast, including 2 days in Goa. }} * {{listing | name=Royal Rajasthan on Wheels | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Royal Rajasthan on Wheels | wikidata=Q7374764 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=Launched in 2009 with a similar route as the original Palace on Wheels. }} * {{listing | name=Mahaparinirvan Express | alt=Great Complete Nirvana Express | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=A Buddhist pilgrimage train offering an eight-day tour to Buddhist sites like [[Lumbini]], [[Bodh Gaya]], [[Sarnath]] and [[Kushinagar]]. }} * {{listing | name=The Golden Chariot | alt= | url=https://www.the-golden-chariot.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Prices start from US$948 per person per night, twin share | wikipedia=Golden Chariot | image=The Golden Chariot Express.jpg | wikidata=Q3764185 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=Named after the famous Stone Chariot in [[Hampi]], a World Heritage Site, the Golden Chariot offers two weeklong itineraries across destinations in South India. Golden Chariot is the only luxury train in India offering luxury tours in South India. This Indian luxury train does two eight-day loop from [[Bangalore]]. There are five journeys offered by the train, mostly taking in the famous sites of Karnataka, with some routes also going to neighbouring Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The train features a restaurant, bar, lounges, gym, business centre, spa, Wi-Fi, cabins with attached bathroom and disabled access. }} * {{listing | name=The Maharajas' Express | alt= | url=http://www.the-maharajas.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=One of the costliest luxury tourist train rides in the world, with fare starting from US$3580 per person per journey and reaching as high as US $22000 per person per journey for Presidential Suite | wikipedia=Maharajas' Express | image=Maharaja Express.jpg | wikidata=Q3079130 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=Touted as the India’s answer to the Orient Express. This luxury tourist train offers 5 itineraries 3 of which are pan-Indian tours and 2 are golden triangle tours. The Maharajas’ Express journeys are named the Heritage of India, the Indian Splendour, the Indian Panorama, Gems of India and Treasures of India. }} * {{listing | name=Bharat Gaurav | alt=India Pride | url=https://bharatgauravtrains.indianrailways.gov.in/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=The latest tourist train to showcase India's history and culture. }} ===High-speed rail=== A nationwide network of '''high-speed rail''' has been planned, popularly known as '''bullet trains'''. The first line between [[Mumbai]] and [[Ahmedabad]] is under construction and is planned to be inaugurated in 2027. ==Classes== The Indian Railways has multiple classes of rail travel to choose from. Not all classes are available on all trains: for example, chair cars are usually found only on short-distance daytime trains and higher-speed trains, while the sleeper classes are only found on overnight services. For typical layouts of the different classes, you can refer to these [http://www.indiamike.com/india/indian-railways-f10/carriage-layout-diagrams-please-give-feedback-t79333/3/#post720962 unofficial diagrams]. Most long-distance trains also include a couple of unreserved sitting coaches. ===Long-distance=== {{Multiple image |image1=Indian Railways AC first class 4-berth cabin.JPG |caption1=AC First Class 4-berth cabin |image2=Indian sleeper coach.jpg |caption2=A typical Indian sleeper coach }} *'''AC First Class''' ('''1A''') – the most comfortable class to travel in, includes lockable four-berth and two-berth (coupe) compartments. The carriages are clean (and carpeted) and the toilets the cleanest of any on Indian trains. Sheets, pillows and blankets are provided and an attendant makes the beds at night. AC First Class carriages are usually found only on important overnight trains and are the most expensive class. 1A coaches are denoted by the letter "H". *'''AC 2 Tier''' ('''2A''') – passengers sleep on four berths in an open cabin or on two berths that are positioned lengthwise along the side of the carriage. Each cabin has a curtain for privacy and each side berth has its own curtain for privacy. There are four toilets, two at each end of the carriage, and usually include a mix of western and eastern style toilets, spottily provided with toilet paper. An attendant brings around blankets, sheets and pillows. 2A carriages are denoted by the letter "A". *'''AC 3 Tier''' ('''3A''') – similar to 2 Tier, the significant differences being the additional middle-bunk in the cabins (but not on the sides). Curtains are not present. This can make it uncomfortable to sit up straight during the morning if the person in the middle-bunk is a heavy sleeper, though legally the middle-berth person has to get up outside the "night" hours of 10PM-6AM. An attendant brings around sheets, blankets, and pillows in the evening. Because there are more people around, AC 3 Tier tends to be noisier than AC 2 Tier. 3A coaches are denoted by the letter "B". *'''AC 3 Tier Economy''' ('''3E''') – previously used exclusively in the Garib Rath class of trains, this class can now been seen in a large number of trains. The seat arrangement is similar to that of the 3A class, but with slightly more cramped seats; however, the coaches are newer, and therefore are (as of May 2025) better-maintained. The price of a 3E berth is marginally less than that of a 3A berth. 3E coaches are denoted by "G" in Garib Rath trains, and by "M" elsewhere. * '''Sleeper''' ('''S''') – the way most Indians travel and is an inexpensive way to get around the country. Berths are arranged in the same pattern as AC 3 Tier, six berths in a cabin and two along the side of the carriage, but there is no air-conditioning. The downside is that it can be hot, sweaty, and uncomfortable inside. The toilets are often dirty and you may find yourself sharing your cabin with passengers without a reservation. For the adventurous, this is the way to see India. Sleeper coaches are denoted by the letter "S". ===Short-distance=== {{Multiple image |image1=Habibganj-JabalpurJS.jpg |caption1=An AC Chair Car of Rani Kamalapati–Jabalpur Jan Shatabdi Express |image2=Indian Railways Second class seating compartment for journeys less than 200 KM.jpg |caption2=Second Seater }} With the new coaches and services that were made and established in the last few years, the quality of these "daytime" coaches can vary immensely, even in the same class. *'''Anubhuti''' ('''EA''') ("Sensation") – available on a few Shatabdis. It is essentially a modernised version of EC (''see below''), with new coaches that have updated seats with a screen for each passenger. It is similar to Tejas Express chair cars. *'''Executive Chair Car''' ('''EC''') – only available on Vande Bharats, Shatabdis, some Durontos and some other trains (such as the Howrah-Tatanagar Steel Express). It is extremely comfortable, and is the most comfortable way to travel during the daytime. The seats are completely rotatable; and the coaches are generally better-maintained and clean. *'''AC Chair Car''' ('''CC''') – found on most daytime intercity trains, is also quite comfortable, but the seats are not as wide as EC. It is advisable to travel on this class wherever possible, as 2S (''see below'') can get quite crowded, particularly on busy routes. *'''Second seater''' ('''2S''') – available on most daytime intercity trains. It is reserved seating in carriages without air-conditioning. Seats are comfortably padded, but the heat and dust outside can make it an uncomfortable ride in summer. Also, depending on the location, you may see ticketless passengers, or passengers with a "general" ticket, use the seats by paying the fine to the TTE. In such cases, you may end up in a seat with four people which is actually meant for 3. Also, if you find that there are too many empty seats while booking online, don't expect the compartment to be empty. ===Other classes=== {{Multiple image |image1=VistadomeInterior.jpg |caption1=An empty Vistadome coach |image2=Interiors of Indian passenger train 09.JPG |caption2=An empty unreserved or general compartment. But don't expect the seats to be empty like this! }} * '''Vistadome''' – these are glass roof coaches, available in some scenic routes. These coaches provide panoramic views of certain tourist attractions. The fares are usually equivalent to EC. There are three types of Vistadome coaches, '''Vistadome Chair Car''' ('''VC'''), '''Vistadome Non AC''' ('''VS''') and '''Vistadome AC''' ('''EV'''). * '''Unreserved''' ('''UR''') or '''General''' ('''GEN''') – these have padded seats but the carriages are often packed with people sitting on the aisles and luggage racks. Not an advisable way to travel, even for short distances, except for the exceptionally tough and the curious that are in it for the experience alone, unless you really have no other choice. * '''Ladies''' or '''Men Not Allowed''' – special coaches available at both ends of a train if you are a solo female and taking the train to enjoy a more comfortable and hopefully less crowded ride. This is not common though, unless you're in a suburban railway system. Further, on long-distance trains such coaches are merely specially reserved general coaches, and may also get crowded due to the influx of daily commuters. * '''For Disabled''' or '''Divyangjan''' ("Person with Divine Organ") – these are special unreserved coaches that are available at both ends of a train and are reserved for passengers with disabilities. ==Zones== [[File:Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Victoria Terminus).jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), one of the major railway terminals of India, the headquarters of the Central Railway (CR) zone, and a {{unesco}}.]] The Indian Railways (IR) network is divided into 18 zones, with a special zone for the [[Kolkata Metro]]. The names and abbreviations of these zones are commonly painted on trains in both English and Hindi. Although the names of different zones are intended to indicate different compass points of India, that's not always the case (for example, the Central Railway (CR) covers mainly Western India). Here's a list of the 18 zones: * '''Central Railway''' ('''CR''') – covers southern [[Madhya Pradesh]] and western [[Maharashtra]]. It operates most lines of the [[Mumbai#By train 2|Mumbai Suburban Railway]] network. Headquartered at CSMT, [[Mumbai]]. * '''East Central Railway''' ('''ECR''') – covers most of [[Bihar]], northern [[Jharkhand]] and eastern [[Uttar Pradesh]]. Headquartered in [[Hajipur]]. * '''East Coast Railway''' ('''ECoR''') – covers most of [[Odisha]] and eastern [[Chhattisgarh]]. Headquartered in [[Bhubaneswar]]. * '''Eastern Railway''' ('''ER''') – covers southeastern [[Bihar]], northeastern [[Jharkhand]], southern [[West Bengal]]. It operates most lines of the [[Kolkata Suburban Railway]] network. Headquartered at Fairlie Place, [[Kolkata]]. * '''Konkan Railway''' ('''KR''') – covers a railway line from Roha near [[Mumbai]] to Thokur near [[Mangalore]] (Mangaluru). Headquartered at CBD Belapur, [[Navi Mumbai]]. * '''North Central Railway''' ('''NCR''') – covers northern [[Madhya Pradesh]] and southern [[Uttar Pradesh]]. Headquartered in [[Prayagraj]]. * '''North Eastern Railway''' ('''NER''') – covers northern [[Uttar Pradesh]]. Headquartered in [[Gorakhpur]]. * '''North Western Railway''' ('''NWR''') – covers most of [[Rajasthan]]. Headquartered in [[Jaipur]]. * '''Northeast Frontier Railway''' ('''NFR''') – covers [[North-Eastern India]], northeastern [[Bihar]] and northern [[West Bengal]]. Headquartered at Maligaon, [[Guwahati]]. * '''Northern Railway''' ('''NR''') – covers [[Himalayan North]], [[Delhi]], [[Haryana]], [[Punjab (India)|Punjab]] and central [[Uttar Pradesh]]. Headquartered at Baroda House, [[New Delhi]]. * '''South Central Railway''' ('''SCR''') – covers [[Telangana]], central [[Maharashtra]] and the [[Bidar]] area of [[Karnataka]]. Headquartered in [[Secunderabad]]. * '''South Coast Railway''' ('''SCoR''') – covers most of [[Andhra Pradesh]], and parts of [[Karnataka]] and [[Telangana]]. Headquartered in [[Visakhapatnam]]. * '''South East Central Railway''' ('''SECR''') – covers most of [[Chhattisgarh]], and eastern [[Madhya Pradesh]] and [[Maharashtra]]. Headquartered in [[Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh)|Bilaspur]]. * '''South Eastern Railway''' ('''SER''') – covers southern [[Jharkhand]], northeastern [[Odisha]] and southwestern [[West Bengal]]. It operates the South Eastern Line of the [[Kolkata Suburban Railway]]. Headquartered at Garden Reach, [[Kolkata]]. * '''South Western Railway''' ('''SWR''') – covers most of [[Karnataka]], southern [[Maharashtra]], northern [[Tamil Nadu]] and the [[Puttaparthi]] area of [[Andhra Pradesh]]. Headquartered at [[Hubli]] (Hubballi). * '''Southern Railway''' ('''SR''') – covers [[Kerala]], [[Tamil Nadu]] and southern [[Andhra Pradesh]]. Headquartered in [[Chennai]]. * '''West Central Railway''' ('''WCR''') – covers most of [[Madhya Pradesh]] and western [[Rajasthan]]. Headquartered in [[Jabalpur]]. * '''Western Railway''' ('''WR''') – covers [[Gujarat]], western [[Madhya Pradesh]], western [[Mumbai]] and northern [[Konkan]] coast of [[Maharashtra]]. It operates the Western Line of the [[Mumbai#By train 2|Mumbai Suburban Railway]]. Headquartered at Churchgate, [[Mumbai]]. ==Stations== [[File:Asansol railway station nameplate (cropped).JPG|thumb|Railway stations usually have some multilingual signage, such as this sign in Bengali, Hindi, English and Urdu.]] There are different types of railway stations in India, from a large station where you can find trains from all major cities, to a single platform by a rail track where even local trains don't stop at all. Most major stations are in the centres of respective cities or villages, although some newer stations are built at the fringes of cities. The larger cities in India are generally served by more than one railway station. Most trains might halt at only one station, while others may stop at two to three. All railway stations in India have signs in English and [[Hindi]], mentioning the station name and details of facilities at the station. Most stations also have signs in other languages, which are usually the local languages used around the area. For example, the stations in [[Bihar]] and [[Uttar Pradesh]] have signs in English, Hindi and [[Urdu]], while the stations in [[Tamil Nadu]] have signs in English, Hindi and [[Tamil]]. The announcements of trains are performed in the languages used in the stations, and depending on the station, the English announcements are performed initially or finally. If you are still in doubt, asking around might be a bit of a problem because of the language barrier. In such circumstances, and in case of an emergency of any sort, contact the '''station master''' or the '''station superintendent''' for assistance. All station masters and superintendents speak English and will help you out. Major railway stations offer a standard set of facilities including '''cloak rooms''' to leave your luggage (slow and bureaucratic but cheap and reasonably safe; you must lock your own bag and show a ticket), '''First class waiting rooms''' (no touts or beggars), a '''computerised reservation office''' for advance bookings and a '''booking office''' for unreserved/same-day tickets. Restaurant facilities vary widely. Several railway stations also have '''touchscreen kiosks''' which help you track your train (real-time running information) and also provide a host of other details regarding bookings, schedules etc. ==Schedules== Before booking a ticket, do visit the Indian Railways website on [http://www.indianrail.gov.in/enquiry/FARE/FareEnquiry.html?locale=en Fare Enquiry] for information including finding a train, fare and ticket availability. You can also get the whole schedule online of a train ''[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/enquiry/SCHEDULE/TrainSchedule.html?locale=en here]''. A list of trains operating between two stations can be found ''[https://enquiry.indianrail.gov.in/mntes/ here]'' after clicking the ''Trains B/w Stations'' option at the top right. Alternatively, you can get a copy of ''Trains At A Glance'', the national rail timetable, from any railway station. This is updated every July and remains valid until the end of the next June. It allows you to choose the best train for your needs, and find the name and number of the train for your destination. However, this is a general guide and does not contain a detailed list of all stations, neither does it contain every train on a route. A more specific guide depending on the "rail zone" is available at important stations on that zone. For example, a detailed guide on trains plying in Western India (i.e. the Western Zonal Timetable) will be available at all major railway stations in Western India. There are private websites like [http://indiarailinfo.com India Rail Info], [https://www.confirmtkt.com/ Confirmtkt], [https://www.trainman.in/ Trainman]{{Dead link|date=February 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.indiantrain.in/ IndianTrain] etc., which also let you search for trains, fares, ticket availability and route maps (no account necessary). Only use these sites for your information, but '''always book online tickets, etc., via the official website (IRCTC) as stated under [[#Ticketing|Ticketing]]'''. ==Ticketing== [[File:Ticket counters of Rani Kamlapati Railway Station 22.jpg|thumb|Ticket counters at Rani Kamalapati railway station, [[Bhopal]]]] Tickets can be purchased online or from counters at railway stations. If bought online, the ticket can be printed instantly or mailed to you. Availability of tickets depend on when you travel, how early you book and which class you want to travel in. On busy routes and dates you may end up on a waiting list and will get on the train only if there are cancellations, or you may have to travel in a rather uncomfortable general compartment. It is necessary to reserve tickets in advance in order to travel by any of the classes listed above (except '''UR/GEN'''). Tickets can be booked in two ways, e-ticketing and counter booking. ===E-ticketing=== An '''e-ticket''' (short for ''electronic ticket'') is a ticket that is booked online and printed instantly. Valid proof of identity (voter ID card/PAN card/Aadhaar card/passport/driving license) of any of the passengers should be produced along with the ticket on the day of the journey, though the TTE is likely to simply ask for your name and seat number and compare it with their records. The procedure for booking an e-ticket is as follows: *Log in to the [http://www.irctc.co.in IRCTC]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} website. Additionally, there is an official app called "Rail One" available both in the [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.cris.aikyam&hl=en Play Store] and the App Store. Note that you need a Google or Apple account with India as its location – you can create a new account for that purpose (it takes 5 minutes). *Log in with your username and password. If it's the first time you're using the site, you need to sign up first, by providing your name, email id, residential address, mobile and occupation (note: they also take mobile numbers from outside India, but the mandatory verification, via a one-time password (OTP), of international numbers does not work reliably). *In the left section "Plan my Journey", type the station names of the originating and destination stations and select the station codes from the autocomplete list that will appear. Select the date of the journey and press the submit button. *The page will reload and show you the results. If no results are returned, try different station names (for example, from Agra City to Agra Cantt). *Results will list available trains ordered by departure time. In the last part of each result, there are the classes (for example 1A, 2A, 3A, SL). Click the wished class and, on top, additional information will appear. *The site will display information for that train, class and day, and will show other times available for that particular day and class for upcoming days. Search for AVAILABLE-XXXX. That means you can book it right now. Other words like WL-XX mean that you can join a waiting list, with a CNF Probability option telling you how likely is it that you'll get out of the waiting list. Click the 'Book now' link. (X refers to the number of seats) *A '''Ticket Reservation''' form will open on the page. Fill in the details and preferences of all the passengers (a maximum of six in a single booking), check the appropriate address box and click on the '''Next''' button. *A copy of your ticket with the details will appear on the screen. Click on the '''Make Payment''' button. *A list of payment options will appear, including Unified Payment Interface (UPI). Choose your preferred payment option. If you are using a foreign credit or debit card, select the option "Payment Gateway / Credit Card" and then "International credit cards - Powered by Atom". Click the '''Make Payment''' option. *The copy of your ticket with the details will reappear on the screen. You can carry the printed copy/SMS sent on your electronic copy on your phone, tablet or laptop, as well as a valid proof of identity with you on the day of your journey. *E-ticket is considered to be the fast, secure and best way to book tickets (especially Tatkal tickets). Tickets for unreserved trains can be purchased from the unreserved ticketing system or the Rail One app. ===Counter booking=== [[File:Railway ticket from Bangalore City junction to Pune junction.jpg|thumb|A sample IR ticket]] Tickets are also sold at most railway stations and at Indian Railways' 1000-plus computerised passenger reservation centres located across the country. For reservation at a counter, you need to fill in a paper form and submit it to the clerk at the counter (occasionally, after a long wait in a queue) along with the payment in either cash or by credit card. Credit cards are accepted at most important stations. Counters in the metros and other important cities accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Diners Card, as well as cards of most Indian banks. There are generally 1 to 3 counters where credit card payment is allowed, depending on the station. ===Fares=== Despite the numerous types of trains and classes, the fare system is quite logical. Vande Bharat, Shatabdi, Rajdhani, Jan Shatabdi and Garib Rath Express trains have fixed point-to-point fares. The fare one-way may be slightly more or less than the reverse-fare, due to different catering charges. There are basically five types of trains on the basis of fare: * '''Rajdhani, Shatabdi and Vande Bharat Express''' — they are elite trains that offer only air-conditioned coaches. They stop only at selected stations. The fare is quite high because all food is included. * '''Superfast Express''' — they skip some of the major stations and charge even higher than Express and Mail trains. * '''Express'''/'''Mail''' — they stop only at major railway stations and charge higher than Passenger trains. * '''Fast Passenger''' — passenger trains that skip smaller stations and offer the same fare structure. * '''Passenger''' — slow trains that stop in all stations including very small stations. For more details of trains and fares, log in to [http://www.irctc.co.in IRCTC]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Alternatively (and especially if you do not have an account yet), you can find trains, fare details and ticket availability on the Indian Railways section on ''[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/enquiry/FARE/FareEnquiry.html?locale=en Fare Enquiry]''. ===Booking tips=== *Avoid travel agents, touts, or anyone else who offers to book your tickets for a fee. It is usually much easier and cheaper to do it yourself. *If you are booking from abroad, the easiest is to use the online service and print e-tickets at home. E-tickets can also be sent by local courier to addresses in India (not abroad) and most hotels willingly accept delivery if notified in advance. *Train tickets are in high demand, especially during the '''summer''' (April–June) and '''winter''' (December–January) breaks. This means that without careful planning, it may be next to impossible to get tickets for long-distance travel (for example from New Delhi to Mumbai). You can book up to '''120 days''' in advance, but during the busy season, the tickets may get sold out quickly. So, plan your journey well in advance. *Foreign nationals can get tickets from a quota reserved for them. In big cities, you have a specific counter or even a special office for them. *If you plan to travel in '''1A''' or '''EC''', tickets should be easier to get - they are generally in less demand. However, in view of the increasing demand, even those seats are hard to get unless booked at least 5 days in advance. *If the Indian Railways website seems too daunting, consider using Cleartrip or MakeMyTrip: Both offer comfortable booking for a small fee and will keep you updated on your waitlist status. However, these pages require IRCTC accounts. *'''[https://12go.asia 12Go Asia]''' offers a ticketing service for Indian trains that comes '''without the need''' of creating an IRCTC account. However, the service does not cover all the routes in India. ===Non-confirmed accommodation=== If you do not get a '''Confirmed''' ('''CNF''') ticket, you may get one that is '''Waitlisted''' ('''WL''') or in the '''Reservation Against Cancellation''' ('''RAC''') status. If you've booked your ticket in advance, it will probably move from WL to RAC status or even to CNF status as time goes by (because of cancellations), so it is a good idea to check it periodically and keep your plans dynamic. Use the 10-digit '''Passenger Name Record''' ('''PNR''') number, printed on the top right-hand corner of your ticket, to check the status of your ticket at any point of time. PNR is a record in the database of Indian Railways computer reservation system (IR-CRS) which saves the journey details for a passenger or the group of passengers. The number will read like WL32/WL14 or similar, with the structure being WL (original position)/WL (current position). There are many different ways to check your PNR status among which popular ones are listed below: * Through websites. '''[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/enquiry/PNR/PnrEnquiry.html Indian Railways]''' is the official portal to check the PNR status online. * Dialling '''139'''. * Through mobile application. * Reservation status checks using SMS service. * Railway enquiry or "Sahyog" (''sehh-YOHG'', meaning "cooperation") counters in your nearest railway stations. * After final chart preparation. You cannot get on to a reserved compartment if your ticket is waitlisted (you can only enter a General Compartment if available, paying the applicable fare). Waitlisted caught entering the train are treated as non-ticket holders and fined. But if you have an RAC ticket, you are allotted "sitting" berths i.e. in a Sleeper Coach, you and a fellow RAC ticket-holder share a berth so that both of you can travel sitting instead of sleeping. The Ticket Examiner then allots you a CNF sleeping berth as and when one is available due to last minute cancellations, no-shows etc. Depending on the train, the route and the season you are travelling in, the RAC ticket may get upgraded to CNF either as soon as the journey begins, mid-way through the journey or not at all. If you do not move up past a waitlist (WL) ticket before the train leaves, you can apply for a refund, but only up to a maximum of a few hours after the train leaves (3 hours for short journeys, up to 12 hours for long journeys). If you bought your ticket online, a WL tickets receive an automatic refund. '''Final berth listing will not be completed until at 4-hours prior to departure.''' Once the checked list is posted, often final cancellations and government official reservations are re-positioned which allow WL and RAC to move up in the queue. It is also possible that the list moves downward as officials are granted priority seating, and later confirmed seats become non-confirmed. Booking non-confirmed is really a gamble, but more often than not the seat will become available, especially if you're earlier in the queue. ===Tatkal quota=== All reserved trains keep a small quota of seats known as '''Tatkal''' (''tuht-KAHL'', meaning "immediate", abbreviated as ''TK'') for sale one day before the departure date. There is an extra charge for these seats. This option is also available at the time of booking online. Even with this extra quota (about 4% of the seats on a train) it can be very difficult to get the train you want when you want it. If you cancel a Tatkal ticket, you won't get any refund. Only four tickets can be booked at time. ID proof is must for Tatkal ticket booking. === Special trains === These are extra reserved trains run to meet demand and incur an additional charge. While it is often easier to find seats, they can run with lower priority and hence you can face significant delays - check the average delay of the train before booking it if this is important for you. ===Foreign tourist quota=== Many important trains also have a '''foreign tourist quota''' (abbreviated as ''FT'') available for foreigners. This is a small number of seats reserved, on some trains, specifically for people traveling to India on a tourist visa. The price is the same, but if the train is full, there's a chance that there will still be FTQ tickets available, and vice versa. There are very few seats available for this quota, so it is best to try for a seat at least 2 or 3 days in advance. Payment must be in foreign currency, usually US dollars ($) or British pounds (£), or in Indian rupees (₹) backed with adequate proof of foreign exchange conversion (an ATM receipt is usually acceptable). A passport may also be required. Tickets on the foreign tourist quota can be booked online if you set up a foreign tourist IRCTC account and pay a ₹100 registration fee with a foreign credit card. === Pets === One significant advantage of Indian Railways is that you can travel with dogs and cats in 1AC (AC First Class), or in the luggage compartment inside a ''dog box'' in most trains (kittens and those that can be kept in a basket are allowed in any coach - see [https://contents.irctc.co.in/en/PetBookingInTrains.pdf this page]). However, the process is a bit convoluted, and any co-passengers you have can object, in which case the dog is placed in the luggage compartment without refund. See [https://www.theboholiving.com/post/how-to-travel-with-your-dogs-by-train-in-india this blog] for an example. == Refunds == === Before charting/travelling === Check [https://contents.irctc.co.in/en/CancellationRulesforIRCTCTrain.pdf this page], but broadly, it depends on * the class: the higher the class, the greater the cancellation charge * time: charges increase significantly if you cancel a confirmed ticket less than 48 hours before travelling * and more importantly, whether the ticket is confirmed (including RAC) or waitlisted: for the latter case, the fee is a flat ₹20. === After charting/travelling === Again check [https://contents.irctc.co.in/en/CancellationRulesforIRCTCTrain.pdf this page]. The process in this case involves filing an online TDR (Ticket Deposit Receipt) via IRCTC or the app. Here are some common cases: * If ''all'' passengers are waitlisted and hence cannot travel, a full refund will be automatically given with no charges. * If ''some'' passengers are confirmed and the others are waitlisted, a fee of ₹20/passenger will be charged as long as TDR is filed ''at least'' four hours before scheduled departure. * If the train is delayed by over three hours, a full refund will be given as long as online TDR is filed ''before the train departs'' and you do not travel. Unlike many other countries, you cannot get a refund and travel at the same time. This can hence be tricky to execute because you lose this option after train departure, so if you take this option, use [https://enquiry.indianrail.gov.in/mntes/ NTES] to track the train you want to file a TDR. Importantly, trying to cancel when you should file a TDR would result in significant cancellation charges (or no refund at all). ==Urban rail transit== [[File:Urban Transit in India.svg|thumb|upright=1.3|Map of urban transit systems in India]] Outside the IR network, many Indian cities have their own rail-based public transport systems, including metros, monorails, rapid rails and trams. ===Metros and monorails=== Major metropolitan cities in India have rapid transit systems, which are popularly known as "metros" in India. They have their own railway lines separate from the broad-gauge network. As of 2023, [[Ahmedabad]], [[Bangalore]], [[Chennai]], [[Delhi]], [[Gurgaon]], [[Hyderabad]], [[Jaipur]], [[Kanpur]], [[Kochi]], [[Kolkata]], [[Lucknow]], [[Mumbai]], [[Nagpur]], [[Noida]] and [[Pune]] are served by metro systems. Delhi Metro is the largest metro system which connects to a few other cities nearby. Mumbai is also served by a 20-km monorail line and it is the only city in India with a monorail system. Although other Indian cities had planned monorail projects, most of them were converted to other transport projects as the Mumbai Monorail (which itself has faced calls to be shut down by its own operators) has faced multiple issues. ===Rapid rail=== The '''Regional Rapid Transit System''' ('''RRTS'''), popularly known as '''rapid rail''', is a type of semi-high-speed regional trains the operate between a large urban area and a nearby smaller city. Like metros, they also have their own railway lines separate from the broad-gauge network. As of 2025, only the [[National Capital Region (India)|National Capital Region]] is served by rapid rail with "Namo Bharat" (Bow to India) trains, not to be confused with the ones operating on broad-gauge lines. ===Trams=== Tram systems in India were built by the British in [[Bhavnagar]], [[Bombay]] (Mumbai), [[Calcutta]] (Kolkata), [[Cawnpore]] (Kanpur), [[Cochin]] (Kochi), [[Delhi]], [[Madras]] (Chennai), [[Nashik]] and [[Patna]]. As of 2026, only the Kolkata trams remain and all other cities have phased out trams. Although appreciated for being emissions-free, they are not very popular due to their slow speeds. ==See and do== Enjoy the train, and speak to your fellow passenger. You may meet fascinating, wonderful people. Chai-wallahs and hawkers selling local food and other items roam the carriages and you'll find yourself sharing food and life-stories with the lower-middle-class families travelling with you. ===Scenic routes=== [[File:Konkan - Western Ghats - Scenes from India's Konkan Railway 144.JPG|thumb|The [[Western Ghats]] as seen from an ordinary train on the Konkan Railway.]] Other than narrow-gauge and luxury trains, many regular trains run across the spectacular countryside of India. Here are some of the most scenic routes that are operated as part of the regular train network: * {{see | name=Kashmir Railway | alt=Jammu–Baramulla | url= | email= | address= | lat=33.9 | long=74.8 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Jammu–Baramulla line | image=Srinagar railway station.jpg | wikidata=Q387255 | lastedit=2026-05-14 | content=Completed in 2023, the railway line starts from the flatlands of [[Jammu]] and ends at the hilly town of [[Baramulla]] in [[Jammu and Kashmir]]. It runs across the Pir Panjal hills and crosses the Chenab River with the Chenab Bridge, the highest railway bridge in the world. The route crosses inhospitable terrain, traverse major earthquake zones and be subject to extreme temperatures of cold and heat. }} * {{see | name=Konkan Railway | alt=Mumbai–Mangalore | url=http://www.konkanrailway.com/ | email= | address= | lat=16.9 | long=73.3 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Konkan Railway zone | wikidata=Q1706472 | lastedit=2026-05-14 | content=Completed in 1998, the railway line starts from the bustling cityscape of [[Mumbai]] and ends at the coastal city of [[Mangalore]]. It runs across the mesmerising [[Western Ghats]] from Mumbai to [[Margao|Madgaon]], then runs across the western coast up to Mangalore. }} ==Buy== There are numerous hawkers selling things in trains and stations. You should check the quality of the product before buying it. There are "One Station One Product" stalls at most railway stations, selling local products. ==Eat and drink== [[File:India - Indian Railways Kitchen coach - 0989.jpg|thumb|Making sandwiches in the kitchen coach]] [[File:Train tea.JPG|thumb|Chai on board]] [[File:হাওড়া স্টেশন জন আহার.jpg|thumb|upright=0.9|A Jan Ahaar outlet in [[Howrah]] station]] Eating and sleeping much depend on the type and class of the train. Cuisine in India is very diverse, and as food is usually prepared on stations the train stops at and served on board, you'll have a chance to experience the local cuisine when you travel! In the lower classes such as Sleeper Class there are often also hawkers selling food. Hot food is available at mealtimes on almost every train in India. The food is mostly prepared in kitchens at railway stations and then loaded onto the train, either onto a pantry coach attached to the train (on most important trains), or just brought on board by waiters and distributed directly to passengers. In some trains food is cooked in the pantry coach of the train. In most cases, a waiter collects orders an hour or two before mealtimes and if you don't place an order, you may be left out in the cold, or if you are lucky, you can get some food at many railway junctions. However, in trains having a pantry car, breakfast is prepared on board the train and you do not have to place an order beforehand. You can tell which trains have a pantry car because there is a '''P''' listed with the classes available in ''Trains at a Glance''. Meals available for lunch and dinner are generally vegetarian and non-vegetarian thalis (rice, dal, a vegetable (chicken or fish curries for non-veg thalis), yoghurt (often sour), chapattis and occasionally, a sweet dish) or (veg/egg/chicken) biryani. Chilli chicken (sweet and sour chicken wings with chillis) is often available. Breakfast normally consists of vegetable cutlet and bread, or omelette and bread. Pantry car service always includes the sale of tea, coffee, cold drinks and "namkeen" (chips and other salty snacks). Note that while pantry cars mostly re-distribute food, they do have a small kitchen and, if you're sick of the dal/chapatti that shows up in the thali, it doesn't hurt to visit the pantry car and see if they can rustle up an omlet or some fresh chicken curry with parathas. The quality of food varies, with the fare being better in the South, North and West. The concept of hygiene, taste, and cuisine changes from region to region. Most pantry cars and restaurants at stations are now managed by '''[http://www.irctc.co.in Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC)]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. IRCTC provides satisfactory quality and hygienic food aboard trains and at stations. IRCTC kiosks are ubiquitous where one can find snacks, breakfast, packed foods, biscuits, cookies, mineral water etc. At major stations, IRCTC has licensed [http://www.comesum.com Comesum] to open fine-dine restaurants. There are also ''Jan Aahaar'' outlet at many junctions which provide tasty and healthy food at affordable prices. On Rajdhanis, Vande Bharats, Shatabdis and Durontos, all meals are included in the fare and are served at your seat at mealtimes. If you are finicky, bring enough food and bottled water for the journey including delays: bananas, bread and chocolate bars are good basics to have. Most important stations will have vendors selling all kinds of edible stuff, but the usual caveats about eating in India apply. Often, snacks and food reflect local specialities. ==Sleep== ===In the train=== Some places in the compartment are better than others for sleeping. In addition, the cheaper trains, often rather crammed, without air conditioning and stopping at every station may not offer an optimal environment for a good night's sleep. If you will stop for the night at a railway station you may not need to worry about finding a hotel room as many stations offer accommodation in retiring rooms. The top ('''UB''') and side upper ('''SU''') bunks are best if you are the sort who likes to sleep early or late. The middle ('''MB''') and bottom ('''LB''') bunks are converted into seating area, so you will be forced to stay awake if everyone else in your compartment wants to stay up. Side lower ('''SL''') and upper ('''SU''') bunks are a great idea if you want a window seat, but they are a bit smaller than the other bunks, so don't choose them if you are a tall person. ''Note that '''1A''' and '''FC''' classes do not have '''MB''', '''SL''' or '''SU''' bunks, while '''2A''' does not have '''MB''' bunk.'' ===In the station=== [[File:Capsule Hotel in Olavakkod.jpg|thumb|upright=0.9|Capsule hotel at [[Palakkad]] Junction railway station]] IR operates two hotels in [[New Delhi]] and [[Howrah Station|Howrah]]. Passengers can book independent rooms or dormitories on production of tickets. Known as the '''Rail Yatri Niwas''', the facilities are very basic and the rooms are quite shabby. There is a self-service restaurant. There are also two '''Railway Hotels''' in [[Puri]], [[Odisha]] and [[Ranchi]], [[Jharkhand]], which offer far better service than the ones in New Delhi and Howrah. '''Retiring rooms''' are available at most major railway stations across the country. They offer basic facilities including a bed, mattress, blankets, drinking water, closet, toilet (and in the case of air-conditioned rooms) and a television. You have to produce a reserved journey ticket in order to be able to book retiring rooms. '''Dormitories''', both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned, are available at almost all railway stations in India. * {{sleep | name=Rail Yatri Niwas | alt= | url= | email= | address=New Delhi railway station | lat=28.642314 | long=77.220004 | directions=metro: {{station|New Delhi|city=delhi|2}} | phone=+91 11 2323-3484 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm ₹145/bed, Single Non-AC ₹265, Double Non-AC ₹385/₹450, Double AC ₹850 | lastedit=2022-09-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sampath Rail Yatri Niwas | alt= | url= | email= | address=New Complex, Howrah railway station | lat=22.58205 | long=88.34245 | directions=metro: {{station|Howrah|city=kolkata|2}} | phone=+91 33 2660-1742 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm ₹100/bed, Double Non-AC ₹350, Double AC ₹550, Triple Non-AC ₹400 | image=IRCTC Sampath Rail Yatri Niwas.jpg | lastedit=2022-10-02 | content=Contains dormitory, single room, and double room accommodation. First-class passengers can wait in an air-conditioned area with balcony views of the Kolkata skyline and the Howrah Bridge. }} * {{sleep | name=Railway Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Puri railway station | lat=19.807743 | long=85.838029 | directions= | phone=+91 6752 222-063 | tollfree= | fax=+91 6752 223-005 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single ₹400/₹600, Double Non-A/C ₹/750/₹1000/₹1200, Double A/C ₹900/₹1500, Triple Non-A/C ₹850/₹1700 | lastedit=2022-09-18 | content= }} ==Stay safe== [[File:Man rushing to toilet in an over conjusted general coach in Indian Railways Train during summer holidays.jpg|thumb|Be careful from the crowded trains like this.]] Always '''watch your bags''', especially in and around train stations. Once on a train, chain and lock your bags to the hooks provided under the lowest bunk, or keep them at your head. Make sure to also lock any exterior pockets (keep your toilet paper, and anything else you'll want on the outside). You can buy chains from chain-and-lock sellers who walk around train stations and trains. Do not take '''food or drink''' from any unknown passenger if they insist to do so. Politely decline their offer. There is a small chance the food or drink may be drugged so they can steal your belongings. Smoking and consumption of alcohol on all trains and at all railway stations is prohibited. There is a steep fine for violation of these rules. Contrary to common belief, it is uncommon for passengers to sit on the top of crowded trains in India, which is fairly common in [[Bangladesh]]i trains. However, Indian trains often leave train carriage doors '''open''', even on high-end train services, so mind your step when passing through doors. It is also common among Indian travellers to board on and alight from moving trains. Such moves are obviously risky and travellers should wait until the train has stopped. All the non-AC coaches, especially second class/general compartments, can be overcrowded because of local ticketless passengers. Local trains are also overcrowded during rush hour. So better to adjust in the situation and try not to argue and complain. AC coaches are fairly safe from this problem. In case of any issues (eg overcrowding), use the [https://railmadad.indianrailways.gov.in/madad/final/home.jsp RailMadad]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} application (you can also call 139 from an Indian phone). ==Respect== Railway staff often ask for [[tip]]s in AC classes. ==Connect== Free Wi-Fi facilities, known as RailWire, are available at major railway stations. You'll need to enter a mobile number and get an OTP (one-time PIN). ==Cope== India has two separate police forces for railway policing, namely the '''Railway Protection Force''' ('''RPF''') and the '''Government Railway Police''' ('''GRP'''). Crimes that occur on trains and at railway stations should be reported to the GRP, as the RPF has no investigation power. Don't just look at a map and assume a short trip, it's best to check ''Trains at a Glance'' before making your plans. '''Toilets''' on Indian trains are usually of the squat variety (most carriages have two squat-type and two sit-down type toilets), and are serviceable at best. The cleanliness tends to deteriorate over the duration of a journey, and the toilets may even be broken, but on longer trips toilets are cleaned at intermediate stations. Washbasins are provided both inside and outside the toilets. Shower cubicles are available only on AC First carriages in Rajdhani Express trains. In all reserved classes, every passenger needs to carry a form of '''ID''', though whether your ID will be checked depends on the serving Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE). {{PartOfTopic|Rail travel|India}} {{guidetopic}} r68ivdy0nmz6lp115yvaxg4ryz55fi2 5288970 5288968 2026-06-07T03:38:13Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Regular trains */ 5288970 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Rail travel in India.jpg|ftt=yes}} {{RailTravelAsia}} The rail network of [[India]] is the third largest in the world, and the rail system is efficient, if not always on schedule. Tracks running well over 60,000 km help connect over 7,500 stations, ferrying nearly 20 million people every day. Although distances in India are long and Indian trains aren't the world's best, travelling on them can add a fascinating new dimension to a visitor's experience. There is virtually no better way to make friends with the local people and see the spectacular and diverse Indian countryside. On many routes the railways are the fastest and cheapest way to get around. All trains in the national network in India are operated by the government-run '''Indian Railways''' ('''IR'''). ==Understand== [[File:Indian Railways network-en.svg|thumb|upright=1.1|A schematic map of India's rail network (as of 2019)]] ===History=== {{Mapframe|width=360|height=400|name=Map of rail travel in India}} India's first commercial railway service began on 16th April 1853 at 3:35PM on its first run between Bori Bunder (in [[Mumbai]], present-day Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) and [[Thane]]. On 15 August 1854, Eastern India's first passenger train ran from [[Howrah]] (near [[Kolkata]]) to [[Hooghly (district)|Hooghly]]. Back then, most railways in India were built by different private companies, and all of them were taken over by the government in 1944. There used to be several different track gauges across the country. However, since 1992, most tracks are converted to broad gauge ({{convert|1676|mm|ftin|abbr=on|disp=or}}). Still, you can enjoy the narrow-gauge "toy trains" in mountainous areas (see [[#Mountain trains]] below). ===Websites=== There are several websites of the Indian Railways (IR). * [https://indianrailways.gov.in/ Main website] – it's in Hindi by default, and you have to switch to English * [https://www.indianrail.gov.in/ Indian Railway Passenger Reservation Enquiry] * [https://www.irctc.co.in/ Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation]{{Dead link|date=May 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (IRCTC) ==Trains== [[File:MGR Chennai Central Mysuru Jn Vande Bharat Express.jpg|thumb|Chennai Central–Mysore Vande Bharat Express, one of the fastest trains in India.]] There are a variety of trains in India, depending on the route you travel and whether you travel during the day or overnight. The more expensive and luxurious trains are as a rule air-conditioned, stop only at major stations, only have reserved seats or beds and in general offer passengers more space. In contrast, the cheaper services are slower, often have no air-conditioning and include non-reserved compartments. With a wide range of trains and accommodation types, you have the choice of travelling in a first-class compartment comparable to first class in a western country, in a more down-to-earth (and likely more adventurous) way or something in between. If you are looking for a really luxurious experience, there are several luxury trains touring popular destinations around India. The IR uses two types of coaches. ICF coaches were the mainstay of IR passenger services. As they were developed in the 1950s, they were rather antiqued and have interior facilities worn-out. LHB coaches, which were developed in the 2000s, are largely air-conditioned (except Deen Dayalu coaches) and have better interior facilities. LHB coaches are often identified with its red and grey or blue and grey colours. In general, LHB coaches are more comfortable than ICF coaches. As of 2023, Rajdhani Express, Tejas Express and Shatabdi Express trains use LHB coaches, Duronto Express and Jan Shatabdi Express trains vary, Vande Bharat Express trains have their own coaches and the rest are most likely using ICF coaches. IR has some newer coaches (usually updated chair cars) and faster services (listed below) that make riding the rails more appealing compared to flying. These trains tend to be more comfortable and faster than other trains, however, they aren't as common as other services. ===Regular trains=== [[File:Lucknow tejas Express standing at New Delhi station.jpg|thumb|New Delhi–Lucknow Tejas Express]] All regular trains in India are either superfast express, express/mail, fast passenger, passenger or local/EMU trains. Don't get too excited by the term ''superfast''; it merely means that the train has an average speed of at least 55 km/h, and therefore the "superfast surcharge" is added to the ticket price. Also, many regular trains are named with [[Hindi]] words, so pronunciations and translations are provided in brackets along with the train's name. The broad hierarchy from luxurious to normal is as follows: ====Semi-high-speed trains==== These are among the fastest and most luxurious trains of IR, running at speeds up to {{km/h|130-160}}. They are almost always on schedule, and get priority over other trains on their respective routes. For example, with a journey time of 8 hours, the New Delhi–Varanasi Vande Bharat Express is the fastest train to connect these two important cities; all other trains take at least 12 hours on this route. These trains feature air-conditioning, premium catering, and modern onboard facilities with doors which are operated automatically. * {{listing | name=Vande Bharat Sleeper Express | alt=''vuhn-DAY B^HAH-ruht'', "Praise India Sleeper Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Vande Bharat Sleeper Express | wikidata=Q130318422 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Self-propelled [[sleeper trains]], operating on one route (Howrah–Kamakhya). }} * {{listing | name=Vande Bharat Express | alt=''vuhn-DAY B^HAH-ruht'', "Praise India Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Vande Bharat Express | image=Vande Bharat Express around Mumbai.jpg | wikidata=Q57954014 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Self-propelled daytime intercity trains with no sleeper coaches that connect important cities in a region, for example two adjacent states' capitals, and returning to their origin station the same day. They operate on 79 routes. }} * {{listing | name=Gatimaan Express | alt=''guh-tih-MAHN'', "Dynamic Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Gatiman Express | image=Gatimaan express.jpg | wikidata=Q19891551 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=India’s first semi-high-speed train, launched in April 2016. It operates on only one route (Delhi–Jhansi), and is usually less crowded than the VB trains. }} * {{listing | name=Tejas Rajdhani Express | alt=''TAY-juhss rahj-D^HAH-nee'', "Brilliance Capital Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tejas Rajdhani Express | wikidata=Q133258484 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Long-distance overnight trains that run on the seven routes between the national capital ([[New Delhi]]) and regional state capitals. }} * {{listing | name=Tejas Express | alt=''TAY-juhss'', "Brilliance Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tejas Express | image=Rajendra B.Aklekar.jpg | wikidata=Q27894564 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Daytime intercity trains with no sleeper coaches, operating on 4 routes, with the New Delhi–Lucknow route being operated by IRCTC. }} ====Classic premium trains==== The original premium tier before the introduction of semi-high-speed trains. They are generally fully air-conditioned, and they operate with high track priority. * {{listing | name=Rajdhani Express | alt=''rahj-D^HAH-nee'', "Capital Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Rajdhani Express | image=12309 Rajdhani Express - AC 1st Class - H1.jpg | wikidata=Q379605 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Fully air-conditioned overnight trains that run on the 19 routes between the national capital ([[New Delhi]]) and regional state capitals. All meals are provided. }} * {{listing | name=Shatabdi Express | alt=''shuh-TAHB-dee'', "Century Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Shatabdi Express | image=WAP5 ^30014 of Ghaziabad with 12004 Swarn Shatabdi - Flickr - Dr. Santulan Mahanta.jpg | wikidata=Q379738 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Fully air-conditioned daytime intercity trains with no sleeper coaches that connect important cities in a region, for example two adjacent states' capitals, and returning to their origin station the same day. They operate on 22 routes. }} * {{listing | name=Duronto Express | alt=''du-RAWN-toh'', "Powerful Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Duronto Express | image=12290 Nagpur Duronto Express at Mumbai CST station.jpg | wikidata=Q428670 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Long-distance point-to-point trains that directly connect, with few or no stops, cities that are far apart. They run on faster time profile than standard express trains, with high track priority. These trains have both AC and sleeper (non-AC) accommodations. They operate on 24 routes. }} * {{listing | name=Uday Express | alt=''u-DIGH'', "Rise Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Uday Express | wikidata=Q39054829 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Short for "'''U'''tkrisht ["Superior"] '''D'''ouble Decker '''A'''ir Conditioned '''Y'''atri ["Passenger"] Express", these are fully air-conditioned premium double-decker trains, operating on only two routes (Guntur–Visakhapatnam and Bengaluru–Coimbatore). }} ====Fully reserved budget trains==== * {{listing | name=Humsafar Express | alt=''HUHM-suh-fuhr'', "Co-Passenger Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Humsafar Express | image=Humsafar exp at Kamakhya Jn.jpg | wikidata=Q27985080 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Fully air-conditioned trains at the transition between premium and regular express trains, featuring modern side-curtains, beverage vending machines and CCTV. They operate on 43 routes. Some Humsafar coaches are used in other semi-reserved trains, so don't get misled! }} * {{listing | name=Garib Rath Express | alt=''guh-REEB ruht^h'', "Poor's Chariot Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Garib Rath Express | image=12113 Garib Rath Express at Nagpur.jpg | wikidata=Q5523292 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Fully air-conditioned superfast overnight trains that offer more seats per coach at a lower fare, operating on 26 routes. These are not as punctual as other trains mentioned above and not as luxurious. The track priority is also lower than the trains mentioned above. }} * {{listing | name=Jan Shatabdi Express | alt=''juhn shuh-TAHB-dee'', "People's Century Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Jan Shatabdi Express | image=12072 Janshatabdi Express at Dadar station.jpg | wikidata=Q6149896 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Superfast daytime intercity trains offering both air-conditioned and sitting accommodation, operating on 27 routes. Jan Shatabdi Express are usually very punctual, and are intended to be an economical version of the Shatabdi Express. While their route priority is below all the trains mentioned above, they still have higher priority than all the trains lower on this list. }} * {{listing | name=Double Decker Express | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Double Decker Express | image=Rajendra B. Aklekar AC Double Deck.jpg | wikidata=Q24088471 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Fully air-conditioned double-decker trains, operating on five routes. }} * {{listing | name=AC Express | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=AC Express (Indian Railways) | wikidata=Q25203225 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Regular express trains with only air-conditioned coaches. They operate on 28 routes. }} ====Semi-reserved trains==== [[File:LHB coaches of Golden Temple Mail.jpg|thumb|An LHB coach of the Golden Temple Mail.]] * {{listing | name=Sampark Kranti Express | alt=''SUHM-puhrk KRAHN-tee'', "Connection Revolution Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sampark Kranti Express | wikidata=Q12068123 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Superfast sleeper trains that run between the national capital ([[New Delhi]]) and regional state capitals, operating on 23 routes. They are cheaper than Rajdhanis, and are named after the respective states or regions served by them instead of specific stations. }} * {{listing | name=Amrit Bharat Express | alt=''UHM-riht B^HAH-ruht'', "Immortal India Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Amrit Bharat Express | image=Amrit Bharat Express trainset.jpg | wikidata=Q123252214 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Superfast non-air-conditioned [[sleeper trains]], operating on 32 routes. }} * {{listing | name=Express or Mail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Express trains in India | wikidata=Q5421693 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=With train numbers starting with 1 or 2, these ubuquitous express and mail trains have both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned carriages, including both sitting and sleeper accommodation, and stop at major railway stations. }} * {{listing | name=Fast Passenger | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Slow and fast passenger trains in India | image=Azimganj bound 53028 (MLDT-AZ) Passenger.jpg | wikidata=Q5436979 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=These trains mainly have non-air-conditioned carriages, including both unreserved sitting (mostly) and sleeper (sometimes) accommodation. }} ====Unreserved long-distance trains==== * {{listing | name=Antyodaya Express | alt=''uhn-TYOH-digh'', "Rise of Dusk Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Antyodaya Express | image=Antyodaya Express coach.jpg | wikidata=Q30593775 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Superfast trains, operating on 13 routes. }} * {{listing | name=Jan Sadharan Express | alt=''juhn SAH-d^hah-ruhnn'', "Common People's Express" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Jan Sadharan Express | wikidata=Q28921355 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Older non-superfast trains, operating on seven routes. }} ====Short-distance trains==== [[File:Mumbai 03-2016 57 Sewri station.jpg|thumb|A local train at Sewri, [[Mumbai]]]] These trains usually get the least importance compared to express trains, and thus subject to massive delays. Those who are not accustomed to it are advised not to travel in those trains as it might be quite troublesome for them to alight from the train at the correct station after pushing through a large crowd of other passengers. * {{listing | name=Namo Bharat Rapid Rail | alt=''nuh-MOH B^HAH-ruht'', "Bow to India Rapid Rail" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Namo Bharat Rapid Rail | wikidata=Q124528245 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=Fully air-conditioned semi-high-speed short-distance intercity EMU trains, operating on two routes. }} * {{listing | name=Passenger or MEMU/DEMU | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Slow and fast passenger trains in India | image=Azimganj bound 53028 (MLDT-AZ) Passenger.jpg | wikidata=Q5436979 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=These trains have only non-air-conditioned carriages offering only unreserved sitting accommodation. They stop at all stations on their route, excluding the ones on suburban routes. }} * {{listing | name=Local or EMU | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Suburban rail in India | wikidata=Q7632407 | lastedit=2026-05-19 | content=These trains offer both sitting accommodation as well as standing room and grab rails and operate within and around big cities. They are often crowded but are generally the fastest and cheapest way to get around cities which have them. IR runs local trains on suburban routes in [[Chennai]], [[Delhi]], [[Hyderabad]], [[Kolkata]], [[Mumbai]] and [[Pune]]. }} === Mountain trains === [[Image:DHR 780 on Batasia Loop 05-02-21 08.jpeg|thumb|A DHR train on the Batasia Loop near Ghum]] Indian Railways operate narrow-gauge trains to various hill stations in India. Travelling on them is a delightful experience, with the tiny trains passing through tunnels, over bridges, around curves and loops amid spectacular scenery. The first three of the four mentioned below are {{unesco}}s. * {{listing | name=[[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]] | alt=DHR | url=http://dhr.in.net/ | email=dhroffice.kurseong@gmail.com | address= | lat=27.045000 | long=88.267222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Darjeeling Himalayan Railway | image=Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Diesel Locomotive.jpg | wikidata=Q463874 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=Winding its way over the steep and torturous foothills of the Himalayas, the "toy train" takes six hours to cover the {{km|83}} distance from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Station in [[Siliguri]] to [[Darjeeling]]. Completed in 1883, the railway follows the road (and mostly shares the same bed) and uses an interesting system of reverses (the trains climbs into a sliding and then goes into reverse to climb up the next section of the hill, sort of like a sideways V) and loops (the track loops around and crosses itself) to navigate the steep climb. '''Batasia Loop''', at a tor point near Darjeeling just beyond the town of Ghum, is the most famous because of its great views. }} * {{listing | name=[[Shimla#Q7171560|Kalka–Shimla Railway]] | alt=KSR | url=http://www.kalkashimlarailway.in/ | email= | address= | lat=31.104605 | long=77.173424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kalka–Shimla Railway | image=KSR Steam special at Taradevi 05-02-13 56.jpeg | wikidata=Q7171560 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=The railway from Kalka to [[Shimla]] was completed in 1903, the final stage in the connection of [[Kolkata|Calcutta]] (Kolkata), then the winter capital of British India, with Simla, then the summer capital. The {{km|96}} railway line runs through the magnificent scenery of the Shivalik Hills, up valleys ringed by high mountains, across 864 stone bridges built like Roman viaducts, and through 107 tunnels, the longest {{m|1144}} in length. }} * {{listing | name=[[Ooty#The Mountain Railway|Nilgiri Mountain Railway]] | alt=NMR | url=https://www.irctctourism.com/gallery/nilgiri.html | email= | address= | lat=11.344317 | long=76.791944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Nilgiri Mountain Railway | image=NMR up train at Kateri Road 05-02-28 04.jpeg | wikidata=Q463735 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=The steepest mountain railway in India, the NMR climbs the {{ft|6159}} from [[Mettupalayam]] to [[Ooty|Udhagmandalam]] (Ooty) over a distance of {{km|46}}, with gradients of 1:12 in some stretches. Completed in 1899, it is the only railway in India to use a rack and pinion system to climb the steep gradient. The train passes through 16 tunnels, over 250 bridges and around 205 sharp curves, with the breathtaking scenery of the Nilgiri Hills visible all along the way. }} * {{listing | name=[[Kangra#Q744580|Kangra Valley Railway]] | alt=KVR | url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/5919/ | email= | address= | lat=31.989158 | long=76.789485 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kangra Valley Railway | image=Kangra Valley train.jpg | wikidata=Q744580 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=This narrow-gauge, British-built train, also called ''Kangra Toy Train'', from 1929 crawls 128 km from [[Pathankot]] main station through stunning scenery to [[Jogindernagar]] (6 hr) via [[Palampur]] and [[Kangra]] (93 km, 4 hr, ₹20) (near [[Dharamsala]]). About six daily departures of slow, often packed second class trains make the trip. (The luxury Kangra Queen service is no more.) Some head only to the penultimate stop of Baijnath Paprola, though all serve the main towns of interest: Kangra and Palampur. }} ===Luxury trains=== [[File:Palace on Wheels Jaipur.jpg|thumb|The Palace on Wheels at [[Jaipur]]]] [[File:Deccan Odyssey - Coach - Parampara.jpg|thumb|A Deccan Odyssey carriage]] [[File:GKN Golden Chariot DSC 0730.JPG|thumb|The Golden Chariot]] One of the luxurious ways to explore the most prominent tourist destinations and attractions in India is to opt for [[tourist trains|luxury train travel]]. The history of luxury train travel in India dates back to the days of the maharajas who used to travel in opulent personal carriages. In 1982, the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) launched the Palace on Wheels in collaboration with Indian Railways to revive the art of elegant traveling in India. The Palace on Wheels was launched to promote tourism in Rajasthan and cater exclusively to the overseas traveler and offer them a hassle free, all-inclusive and opulent option of traveling to the royal destinations in Rajasthan. Nowadays there are a total of 6 luxury trains plying different routes and offering a total of 11 pre-packaged itineraries. * {{listing | name=The [[Palace on Wheels]] | alt= | url=https://palaceonwheels.rajasthan.gov.in/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=The all-inclusive prices of the Palace on Wheels start from US$864 per person per night on double occupancy basis in the off-peak season and US$976 for the same in peak season (October–March) | wikipedia=Palace on Wheels | image=Palace on Wheels Jaipur.jpg | wikidata=Q3273401 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=Although the history of luxury train travelling in India dates back to the time of maharajas during the days of British Raj, the modern history of this mode of transport dates back to 1982 with the introduction of India’s first luxury train. It was introduced as a joint venture of the RTDC and the Indian Railways to promote [[Rajasthan]] as a global tourist destination. The venture turned out to be a great success among overseas travellers and a few decades later more such train journeys followed. The Palace on Wheels does an eight-day loop from [[New Delhi]] with stops and tours in [[Jaipur]], [[Ranthambore]], [[Chittorgarh]], [[Udaipur]], [[Jaisalmer]], [[Jodhpur]], [[Bharatpur]], and [[Agra]]. The train is equipped with Wi-Fi, TV, dining cars, bar & sitting lounge, guest cabins with attached bathroom and even a spa. }} * {{listing | name=The Royal Orient | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Royal Orient | wikidata=Q5977417 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=The second luxury train introduced in India after the huge success of Palace on Wheels in Rajasthan. It is a joint initiative of the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat and the Indian Railways to promote tourism in [[Gujarat]]. The Royal Orient starts from Delhi Cantonment and operates between September and April, starting every Wednesday of the week. It provides an eight day and seven night tour, and has stops at [[Chittorgarh]], [[Jaipur]], [[Udaipur]], [[Ahmedabad]], [[Mehsana]], [[Junagadh]], [[Veraval]], [[Mandvi]], [[Dilwara]], [[Palitana]] and [[Sarkhej]]. }} * {{listing | name=The Deccan Odyssey | alt= | url=https://www.deccan-odyssey-india.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=The fare starts from US$9330 per person for a 7 nights / 8 days journey, deluxe cabin | wikipedia=Deccan Odyssey | image=Deccan-Odyssey.jpg | wikidata=Q4382846 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=A joint initiative of the Maharashtra State Tourism Development Corporation (MSTDC) and the Indian Railways to promote tourism in [[Maharashtra]]. The itinerary of this luxury rail tour was designed to offer the cultural and historical insights to the guest at some of the most significant destinations in Maharashtra. The 7 nights/8 days itinerary beginning from [[Mumbai]] crisscrosses some of the most mesmerizing landscape along the verdant Western Ghats and the Konkan Coast, including 2 days in Goa. }} * {{listing | name=Royal Rajasthan on Wheels | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Royal Rajasthan on Wheels | wikidata=Q7374764 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=Launched in 2009 with a similar route as the original Palace on Wheels. }} * {{listing | name=Mahaparinirvan Express | alt=Great Complete Nirvana Express | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=A Buddhist pilgrimage train offering an eight-day tour to Buddhist sites like [[Lumbini]], [[Bodh Gaya]], [[Sarnath]] and [[Kushinagar]]. }} * {{listing | name=The Golden Chariot | alt= | url=https://www.the-golden-chariot.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Prices start from US$948 per person per night, twin share | wikipedia=Golden Chariot | image=The Golden Chariot Express.jpg | wikidata=Q3764185 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=Named after the famous Stone Chariot in [[Hampi]], a World Heritage Site, the Golden Chariot offers two weeklong itineraries across destinations in South India. Golden Chariot is the only luxury train in India offering luxury tours in South India. This Indian luxury train does two eight-day loop from [[Bangalore]]. There are five journeys offered by the train, mostly taking in the famous sites of Karnataka, with some routes also going to neighbouring Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The train features a restaurant, bar, lounges, gym, business centre, spa, Wi-Fi, cabins with attached bathroom and disabled access. }} * {{listing | name=The Maharajas' Express | alt= | url=http://www.the-maharajas.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=One of the costliest luxury tourist train rides in the world, with fare starting from US$3580 per person per journey and reaching as high as US $22000 per person per journey for Presidential Suite | wikipedia=Maharajas' Express | image=Maharaja Express.jpg | wikidata=Q3079130 | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=Touted as the India’s answer to the Orient Express. This luxury tourist train offers 5 itineraries 3 of which are pan-Indian tours and 2 are golden triangle tours. The Maharajas’ Express journeys are named the Heritage of India, the Indian Splendour, the Indian Panorama, Gems of India and Treasures of India. }} * {{listing | name=Bharat Gaurav | alt=India Pride | url=https://bharatgauravtrains.indianrailways.gov.in/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-05-13 | content=The latest tourist train to showcase India's history and culture. }} ===High-speed rail=== A nationwide network of '''high-speed rail''' has been planned, popularly known as '''bullet trains'''. The first line between [[Mumbai]] and [[Ahmedabad]] is under construction and is planned to be inaugurated in 2027. ==Classes== The Indian Railways has multiple classes of rail travel to choose from. Not all classes are available on all trains: for example, chair cars are usually found only on short-distance daytime trains and higher-speed trains, while the sleeper classes are only found on overnight services. For typical layouts of the different classes, you can refer to these [http://www.indiamike.com/india/indian-railways-f10/carriage-layout-diagrams-please-give-feedback-t79333/3/#post720962 unofficial diagrams]. Most long-distance trains also include a couple of unreserved sitting coaches. ===Long-distance=== {{Multiple image |image1=Indian Railways AC first class 4-berth cabin.JPG |caption1=AC First Class 4-berth cabin |image2=Indian sleeper coach.jpg |caption2=A typical Indian sleeper coach }} *'''AC First Class''' ('''1A''') – the most comfortable class to travel in, includes lockable four-berth and two-berth (coupe) compartments. The carriages are clean (and carpeted) and the toilets the cleanest of any on Indian trains. Sheets, pillows and blankets are provided and an attendant makes the beds at night. AC First Class carriages are usually found only on important overnight trains and are the most expensive class. 1A coaches are denoted by the letter "H". *'''AC 2 Tier''' ('''2A''') – passengers sleep on four berths in an open cabin or on two berths that are positioned lengthwise along the side of the carriage. Each cabin has a curtain for privacy and each side berth has its own curtain for privacy. There are four toilets, two at each end of the carriage, and usually include a mix of western and eastern style toilets, spottily provided with toilet paper. An attendant brings around blankets, sheets and pillows. 2A carriages are denoted by the letter "A". *'''AC 3 Tier''' ('''3A''') – similar to 2 Tier, the significant differences being the additional middle-bunk in the cabins (but not on the sides). Curtains are not present. This can make it uncomfortable to sit up straight during the morning if the person in the middle-bunk is a heavy sleeper, though legally the middle-berth person has to get up outside the "night" hours of 10PM-6AM. An attendant brings around sheets, blankets, and pillows in the evening. Because there are more people around, AC 3 Tier tends to be noisier than AC 2 Tier. 3A coaches are denoted by the letter "B". *'''AC 3 Tier Economy''' ('''3E''') – previously used exclusively in the Garib Rath class of trains, this class can now been seen in a large number of trains. The seat arrangement is similar to that of the 3A class, but with slightly more cramped seats; however, the coaches are newer, and therefore are (as of May 2025) better-maintained. The price of a 3E berth is marginally less than that of a 3A berth. 3E coaches are denoted by "G" in Garib Rath trains, and by "M" elsewhere. * '''Sleeper''' ('''S''') – the way most Indians travel and is an inexpensive way to get around the country. Berths are arranged in the same pattern as AC 3 Tier, six berths in a cabin and two along the side of the carriage, but there is no air-conditioning. The downside is that it can be hot, sweaty, and uncomfortable inside. The toilets are often dirty and you may find yourself sharing your cabin with passengers without a reservation. For the adventurous, this is the way to see India. Sleeper coaches are denoted by the letter "S". ===Short-distance=== {{Multiple image |image1=Habibganj-JabalpurJS.jpg |caption1=An AC Chair Car of Rani Kamalapati–Jabalpur Jan Shatabdi Express |image2=Indian Railways Second class seating compartment for journeys less than 200 KM.jpg |caption2=Second Seater }} With the new coaches and services that were made and established in the last few years, the quality of these "daytime" coaches can vary immensely, even in the same class. *'''Anubhuti''' ('''EA''') ("Sensation") – available on a few Shatabdis. It is essentially a modernised version of EC (''see below''), with new coaches that have updated seats with a screen for each passenger. It is similar to Tejas Express chair cars. *'''Executive Chair Car''' ('''EC''') – only available on Vande Bharats, Shatabdis, some Durontos and some other trains (such as the Howrah-Tatanagar Steel Express). It is extremely comfortable, and is the most comfortable way to travel during the daytime. The seats are completely rotatable; and the coaches are generally better-maintained and clean. *'''AC Chair Car''' ('''CC''') – found on most daytime intercity trains, is also quite comfortable, but the seats are not as wide as EC. It is advisable to travel on this class wherever possible, as 2S (''see below'') can get quite crowded, particularly on busy routes. *'''Second seater''' ('''2S''') – available on most daytime intercity trains. It is reserved seating in carriages without air-conditioning. Seats are comfortably padded, but the heat and dust outside can make it an uncomfortable ride in summer. Also, depending on the location, you may see ticketless passengers, or passengers with a "general" ticket, use the seats by paying the fine to the TTE. In such cases, you may end up in a seat with four people which is actually meant for 3. Also, if you find that there are too many empty seats while booking online, don't expect the compartment to be empty. ===Other classes=== {{Multiple image |image1=VistadomeInterior.jpg |caption1=An empty Vistadome coach |image2=Interiors of Indian passenger train 09.JPG |caption2=An empty unreserved or general compartment. But don't expect the seats to be empty like this! }} * '''Vistadome''' – these are glass roof coaches, available in some scenic routes. These coaches provide panoramic views of certain tourist attractions. The fares are usually equivalent to EC. There are three types of Vistadome coaches, '''Vistadome Chair Car''' ('''VC'''), '''Vistadome Non AC''' ('''VS''') and '''Vistadome AC''' ('''EV'''). * '''Unreserved''' ('''UR''') or '''General''' ('''GEN''') – these have padded seats but the carriages are often packed with people sitting on the aisles and luggage racks. Not an advisable way to travel, even for short distances, except for the exceptionally tough and the curious that are in it for the experience alone, unless you really have no other choice. * '''Ladies''' or '''Men Not Allowed''' – special coaches available at both ends of a train if you are a solo female and taking the train to enjoy a more comfortable and hopefully less crowded ride. This is not common though, unless you're in a suburban railway system. Further, on long-distance trains such coaches are merely specially reserved general coaches, and may also get crowded due to the influx of daily commuters. * '''For Disabled''' or '''Divyangjan''' ("Person with Divine Organ") – these are special unreserved coaches that are available at both ends of a train and are reserved for passengers with disabilities. ==Zones== [[File:Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Victoria Terminus).jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), one of the major railway terminals of India, the headquarters of the Central Railway (CR) zone, and a {{unesco}}.]] The Indian Railways (IR) network is divided into 18 zones, with a special zone for the [[Kolkata Metro]]. The names and abbreviations of these zones are commonly painted on trains in both English and Hindi. Although the names of different zones are intended to indicate different compass points of India, that's not always the case (for example, the Central Railway (CR) covers mainly Western India). Here's a list of the 18 zones: * '''Central Railway''' ('''CR''') – covers southern [[Madhya Pradesh]] and western [[Maharashtra]]. It operates most lines of the [[Mumbai#By train 2|Mumbai Suburban Railway]] network. Headquartered at CSMT, [[Mumbai]]. * '''East Central Railway''' ('''ECR''') – covers most of [[Bihar]], northern [[Jharkhand]] and eastern [[Uttar Pradesh]]. Headquartered in [[Hajipur]]. * '''East Coast Railway''' ('''ECoR''') – covers most of [[Odisha]] and eastern [[Chhattisgarh]]. Headquartered in [[Bhubaneswar]]. * '''Eastern Railway''' ('''ER''') – covers southeastern [[Bihar]], northeastern [[Jharkhand]], southern [[West Bengal]]. It operates most lines of the [[Kolkata Suburban Railway]] network. Headquartered at Fairlie Place, [[Kolkata]]. * '''Konkan Railway''' ('''KR''') – covers a railway line from Roha near [[Mumbai]] to Thokur near [[Mangalore]] (Mangaluru). Headquartered at CBD Belapur, [[Navi Mumbai]]. * '''North Central Railway''' ('''NCR''') – covers northern [[Madhya Pradesh]] and southern [[Uttar Pradesh]]. Headquartered in [[Prayagraj]]. * '''North Eastern Railway''' ('''NER''') – covers northern [[Uttar Pradesh]]. Headquartered in [[Gorakhpur]]. * '''North Western Railway''' ('''NWR''') – covers most of [[Rajasthan]]. Headquartered in [[Jaipur]]. * '''Northeast Frontier Railway''' ('''NFR''') – covers [[North-Eastern India]], northeastern [[Bihar]] and northern [[West Bengal]]. Headquartered at Maligaon, [[Guwahati]]. * '''Northern Railway''' ('''NR''') – covers [[Himalayan North]], [[Delhi]], [[Haryana]], [[Punjab (India)|Punjab]] and central [[Uttar Pradesh]]. Headquartered at Baroda House, [[New Delhi]]. * '''South Central Railway''' ('''SCR''') – covers [[Telangana]], central [[Maharashtra]] and the [[Bidar]] area of [[Karnataka]]. Headquartered in [[Secunderabad]]. * '''South Coast Railway''' ('''SCoR''') – covers most of [[Andhra Pradesh]], and parts of [[Karnataka]] and [[Telangana]]. Headquartered in [[Visakhapatnam]]. * '''South East Central Railway''' ('''SECR''') – covers most of [[Chhattisgarh]], and eastern [[Madhya Pradesh]] and [[Maharashtra]]. Headquartered in [[Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh)|Bilaspur]]. * '''South Eastern Railway''' ('''SER''') – covers southern [[Jharkhand]], northeastern [[Odisha]] and southwestern [[West Bengal]]. It operates the South Eastern Line of the [[Kolkata Suburban Railway]]. Headquartered at Garden Reach, [[Kolkata]]. * '''South Western Railway''' ('''SWR''') – covers most of [[Karnataka]], southern [[Maharashtra]], northern [[Tamil Nadu]] and the [[Puttaparthi]] area of [[Andhra Pradesh]]. Headquartered at [[Hubli]] (Hubballi). * '''Southern Railway''' ('''SR''') – covers [[Kerala]], [[Tamil Nadu]] and southern [[Andhra Pradesh]]. Headquartered in [[Chennai]]. * '''West Central Railway''' ('''WCR''') – covers most of [[Madhya Pradesh]] and western [[Rajasthan]]. Headquartered in [[Jabalpur]]. * '''Western Railway''' ('''WR''') – covers [[Gujarat]], western [[Madhya Pradesh]], western [[Mumbai]] and northern [[Konkan]] coast of [[Maharashtra]]. It operates the Western Line of the [[Mumbai#By train 2|Mumbai Suburban Railway]]. Headquartered at Churchgate, [[Mumbai]]. ==Stations== [[File:Asansol railway station nameplate (cropped).JPG|thumb|Railway stations usually have some multilingual signage, such as this sign in Bengali, Hindi, English and Urdu.]] There are different types of railway stations in India, from a large station where you can find trains from all major cities, to a single platform by a rail track where even local trains don't stop at all. Most major stations are in the centres of respective cities or villages, although some newer stations are built at the fringes of cities. The larger cities in India are generally served by more than one railway station. Most trains might halt at only one station, while others may stop at two to three. All railway stations in India have signs in English and [[Hindi]], mentioning the station name and details of facilities at the station. Most stations also have signs in other languages, which are usually the local languages used around the area. For example, the stations in [[Bihar]] and [[Uttar Pradesh]] have signs in English, Hindi and [[Urdu]], while the stations in [[Tamil Nadu]] have signs in English, Hindi and [[Tamil]]. The announcements of trains are performed in the languages used in the stations, and depending on the station, the English announcements are performed initially or finally. If you are still in doubt, asking around might be a bit of a problem because of the language barrier. In such circumstances, and in case of an emergency of any sort, contact the '''station master''' or the '''station superintendent''' for assistance. All station masters and superintendents speak English and will help you out. Major railway stations offer a standard set of facilities including '''cloak rooms''' to leave your luggage (slow and bureaucratic but cheap and reasonably safe; you must lock your own bag and show a ticket), '''First class waiting rooms''' (no touts or beggars), a '''computerised reservation office''' for advance bookings and a '''booking office''' for unreserved/same-day tickets. Restaurant facilities vary widely. Several railway stations also have '''touchscreen kiosks''' which help you track your train (real-time running information) and also provide a host of other details regarding bookings, schedules etc. ==Schedules== Before booking a ticket, do visit the Indian Railways website on [http://www.indianrail.gov.in/enquiry/FARE/FareEnquiry.html?locale=en Fare Enquiry] for information including finding a train, fare and ticket availability. You can also get the whole schedule online of a train ''[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/enquiry/SCHEDULE/TrainSchedule.html?locale=en here]''. A list of trains operating between two stations can be found ''[https://enquiry.indianrail.gov.in/mntes/ here]'' after clicking the ''Trains B/w Stations'' option at the top right. Alternatively, you can get a copy of ''Trains At A Glance'', the national rail timetable, from any railway station. This is updated every July and remains valid until the end of the next June. It allows you to choose the best train for your needs, and find the name and number of the train for your destination. However, this is a general guide and does not contain a detailed list of all stations, neither does it contain every train on a route. A more specific guide depending on the "rail zone" is available at important stations on that zone. For example, a detailed guide on trains plying in Western India (i.e. the Western Zonal Timetable) will be available at all major railway stations in Western India. There are private websites like [http://indiarailinfo.com India Rail Info], [https://www.confirmtkt.com/ Confirmtkt], [https://www.trainman.in/ Trainman]{{Dead link|date=February 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.indiantrain.in/ IndianTrain] etc., which also let you search for trains, fares, ticket availability and route maps (no account necessary). Only use these sites for your information, but '''always book online tickets, etc., via the official website (IRCTC) as stated under [[#Ticketing|Ticketing]]'''. ==Ticketing== [[File:Ticket counters of Rani Kamlapati Railway Station 22.jpg|thumb|Ticket counters at Rani Kamalapati railway station, [[Bhopal]]]] Tickets can be purchased online or from counters at railway stations. If bought online, the ticket can be printed instantly or mailed to you. Availability of tickets depend on when you travel, how early you book and which class you want to travel in. On busy routes and dates you may end up on a waiting list and will get on the train only if there are cancellations, or you may have to travel in a rather uncomfortable general compartment. It is necessary to reserve tickets in advance in order to travel by any of the classes listed above (except '''UR/GEN'''). Tickets can be booked in two ways, e-ticketing and counter booking. ===E-ticketing=== An '''e-ticket''' (short for ''electronic ticket'') is a ticket that is booked online and printed instantly. Valid proof of identity (voter ID card/PAN card/Aadhaar card/passport/driving license) of any of the passengers should be produced along with the ticket on the day of the journey, though the TTE is likely to simply ask for your name and seat number and compare it with their records. The procedure for booking an e-ticket is as follows: *Log in to the [http://www.irctc.co.in IRCTC]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} website. Additionally, there is an official app called "Rail One" available both in the [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.cris.aikyam&hl=en Play Store] and the App Store. Note that you need a Google or Apple account with India as its location – you can create a new account for that purpose (it takes 5 minutes). *Log in with your username and password. If it's the first time you're using the site, you need to sign up first, by providing your name, email id, residential address, mobile and occupation (note: they also take mobile numbers from outside India, but the mandatory verification, via a one-time password (OTP), of international numbers does not work reliably). *In the left section "Plan my Journey", type the station names of the originating and destination stations and select the station codes from the autocomplete list that will appear. Select the date of the journey and press the submit button. *The page will reload and show you the results. If no results are returned, try different station names (for example, from Agra City to Agra Cantt). *Results will list available trains ordered by departure time. In the last part of each result, there are the classes (for example 1A, 2A, 3A, SL). Click the wished class and, on top, additional information will appear. *The site will display information for that train, class and day, and will show other times available for that particular day and class for upcoming days. Search for AVAILABLE-XXXX. That means you can book it right now. Other words like WL-XX mean that you can join a waiting list, with a CNF Probability option telling you how likely is it that you'll get out of the waiting list. Click the 'Book now' link. (X refers to the number of seats) *A '''Ticket Reservation''' form will open on the page. Fill in the details and preferences of all the passengers (a maximum of six in a single booking), check the appropriate address box and click on the '''Next''' button. *A copy of your ticket with the details will appear on the screen. Click on the '''Make Payment''' button. *A list of payment options will appear, including Unified Payment Interface (UPI). Choose your preferred payment option. If you are using a foreign credit or debit card, select the option "Payment Gateway / Credit Card" and then "International credit cards - Powered by Atom". Click the '''Make Payment''' option. *The copy of your ticket with the details will reappear on the screen. You can carry the printed copy/SMS sent on your electronic copy on your phone, tablet or laptop, as well as a valid proof of identity with you on the day of your journey. *E-ticket is considered to be the fast, secure and best way to book tickets (especially Tatkal tickets). Tickets for unreserved trains can be purchased from the unreserved ticketing system or the Rail One app. ===Counter booking=== [[File:Railway ticket from Bangalore City junction to Pune junction.jpg|thumb|A sample IR ticket]] Tickets are also sold at most railway stations and at Indian Railways' 1000-plus computerised passenger reservation centres located across the country. For reservation at a counter, you need to fill in a paper form and submit it to the clerk at the counter (occasionally, after a long wait in a queue) along with the payment in either cash or by credit card. Credit cards are accepted at most important stations. Counters in the metros and other important cities accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Diners Card, as well as cards of most Indian banks. There are generally 1 to 3 counters where credit card payment is allowed, depending on the station. ===Fares=== Despite the numerous types of trains and classes, the fare system is quite logical. Vande Bharat, Shatabdi, Rajdhani, Jan Shatabdi and Garib Rath Express trains have fixed point-to-point fares. The fare one-way may be slightly more or less than the reverse-fare, due to different catering charges. There are basically five types of trains on the basis of fare: * '''Rajdhani, Shatabdi and Vande Bharat Express''' — they are elite trains that offer only air-conditioned coaches. They stop only at selected stations. The fare is quite high because all food is included. * '''Superfast Express''' — they skip some of the major stations and charge even higher than Express and Mail trains. * '''Express'''/'''Mail''' — they stop only at major railway stations and charge higher than Passenger trains. * '''Fast Passenger''' — passenger trains that skip smaller stations and offer the same fare structure. * '''Passenger''' — slow trains that stop in all stations including very small stations. For more details of trains and fares, log in to [http://www.irctc.co.in IRCTC]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Alternatively (and especially if you do not have an account yet), you can find trains, fare details and ticket availability on the Indian Railways section on ''[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/enquiry/FARE/FareEnquiry.html?locale=en Fare Enquiry]''. ===Booking tips=== *Avoid travel agents, touts, or anyone else who offers to book your tickets for a fee. It is usually much easier and cheaper to do it yourself. *If you are booking from abroad, the easiest is to use the online service and print e-tickets at home. E-tickets can also be sent by local courier to addresses in India (not abroad) and most hotels willingly accept delivery if notified in advance. *Train tickets are in high demand, especially during the '''summer''' (April–June) and '''winter''' (December–January) breaks. This means that without careful planning, it may be next to impossible to get tickets for long-distance travel (for example from New Delhi to Mumbai). You can book up to '''120 days''' in advance, but during the busy season, the tickets may get sold out quickly. So, plan your journey well in advance. *Foreign nationals can get tickets from a quota reserved for them. In big cities, you have a specific counter or even a special office for them. *If you plan to travel in '''1A''' or '''EC''', tickets should be easier to get - they are generally in less demand. However, in view of the increasing demand, even those seats are hard to get unless booked at least 5 days in advance. *If the Indian Railways website seems too daunting, consider using Cleartrip or MakeMyTrip: Both offer comfortable booking for a small fee and will keep you updated on your waitlist status. However, these pages require IRCTC accounts. *'''[https://12go.asia 12Go Asia]''' offers a ticketing service for Indian trains that comes '''without the need''' of creating an IRCTC account. However, the service does not cover all the routes in India. ===Non-confirmed accommodation=== If you do not get a '''Confirmed''' ('''CNF''') ticket, you may get one that is '''Waitlisted''' ('''WL''') or in the '''Reservation Against Cancellation''' ('''RAC''') status. If you've booked your ticket in advance, it will probably move from WL to RAC status or even to CNF status as time goes by (because of cancellations), so it is a good idea to check it periodically and keep your plans dynamic. Use the 10-digit '''Passenger Name Record''' ('''PNR''') number, printed on the top right-hand corner of your ticket, to check the status of your ticket at any point of time. PNR is a record in the database of Indian Railways computer reservation system (IR-CRS) which saves the journey details for a passenger or the group of passengers. The number will read like WL32/WL14 or similar, with the structure being WL (original position)/WL (current position). There are many different ways to check your PNR status among which popular ones are listed below: * Through websites. '''[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/enquiry/PNR/PnrEnquiry.html Indian Railways]''' is the official portal to check the PNR status online. * Dialling '''139'''. * Through mobile application. * Reservation status checks using SMS service. * Railway enquiry or "Sahyog" (''sehh-YOHG'', meaning "cooperation") counters in your nearest railway stations. * After final chart preparation. You cannot get on to a reserved compartment if your ticket is waitlisted (you can only enter a General Compartment if available, paying the applicable fare). Waitlisted caught entering the train are treated as non-ticket holders and fined. But if you have an RAC ticket, you are allotted "sitting" berths i.e. in a Sleeper Coach, you and a fellow RAC ticket-holder share a berth so that both of you can travel sitting instead of sleeping. The Ticket Examiner then allots you a CNF sleeping berth as and when one is available due to last minute cancellations, no-shows etc. Depending on the train, the route and the season you are travelling in, the RAC ticket may get upgraded to CNF either as soon as the journey begins, mid-way through the journey or not at all. If you do not move up past a waitlist (WL) ticket before the train leaves, you can apply for a refund, but only up to a maximum of a few hours after the train leaves (3 hours for short journeys, up to 12 hours for long journeys). If you bought your ticket online, a WL tickets receive an automatic refund. '''Final berth listing will not be completed until at 4-hours prior to departure.''' Once the checked list is posted, often final cancellations and government official reservations are re-positioned which allow WL and RAC to move up in the queue. It is also possible that the list moves downward as officials are granted priority seating, and later confirmed seats become non-confirmed. Booking non-confirmed is really a gamble, but more often than not the seat will become available, especially if you're earlier in the queue. ===Tatkal quota=== All reserved trains keep a small quota of seats known as '''Tatkal''' (''tuht-KAHL'', meaning "immediate", abbreviated as ''TK'') for sale one day before the departure date. There is an extra charge for these seats. This option is also available at the time of booking online. Even with this extra quota (about 4% of the seats on a train) it can be very difficult to get the train you want when you want it. If you cancel a Tatkal ticket, you won't get any refund. Only four tickets can be booked at time. ID proof is must for Tatkal ticket booking. === Special trains === These are extra reserved trains run to meet demand and incur an additional charge. While it is often easier to find seats, they can run with lower priority and hence you can face significant delays - check the average delay of the train before booking it if this is important for you. ===Foreign tourist quota=== Many important trains also have a '''foreign tourist quota''' (abbreviated as ''FT'') available for foreigners. This is a small number of seats reserved, on some trains, specifically for people traveling to India on a tourist visa. The price is the same, but if the train is full, there's a chance that there will still be FTQ tickets available, and vice versa. There are very few seats available for this quota, so it is best to try for a seat at least 2 or 3 days in advance. Payment must be in foreign currency, usually US dollars ($) or British pounds (£), or in Indian rupees (₹) backed with adequate proof of foreign exchange conversion (an ATM receipt is usually acceptable). A passport may also be required. Tickets on the foreign tourist quota can be booked online if you set up a foreign tourist IRCTC account and pay a ₹100 registration fee with a foreign credit card. === Pets === One significant advantage of Indian Railways is that you can travel with dogs and cats in 1AC (AC First Class), or in the luggage compartment inside a ''dog box'' in most trains (kittens and those that can be kept in a basket are allowed in any coach - see [https://contents.irctc.co.in/en/PetBookingInTrains.pdf this page]). However, the process is a bit convoluted, and any co-passengers you have can object, in which case the dog is placed in the luggage compartment without refund. See [https://www.theboholiving.com/post/how-to-travel-with-your-dogs-by-train-in-india this blog] for an example. == Refunds == === Before charting/travelling === Check [https://contents.irctc.co.in/en/CancellationRulesforIRCTCTrain.pdf this page], but broadly, it depends on * the class: the higher the class, the greater the cancellation charge * time: charges increase significantly if you cancel a confirmed ticket less than 48 hours before travelling * and more importantly, whether the ticket is confirmed (including RAC) or waitlisted: for the latter case, the fee is a flat ₹20. === After charting/travelling === Again check [https://contents.irctc.co.in/en/CancellationRulesforIRCTCTrain.pdf this page]. The process in this case involves filing an online TDR (Ticket Deposit Receipt) via IRCTC or the app. Here are some common cases: * If ''all'' passengers are waitlisted and hence cannot travel, a full refund will be automatically given with no charges. * If ''some'' passengers are confirmed and the others are waitlisted, a fee of ₹20/passenger will be charged as long as TDR is filed ''at least'' four hours before scheduled departure. * If the train is delayed by over three hours, a full refund will be given as long as online TDR is filed ''before the train departs'' and you do not travel. Unlike many other countries, you cannot get a refund and travel at the same time. This can hence be tricky to execute because you lose this option after train departure, so if you take this option, use [https://enquiry.indianrail.gov.in/mntes/ NTES] to track the train you want to file a TDR. Importantly, trying to cancel when you should file a TDR would result in significant cancellation charges (or no refund at all). ==Urban rail transit== [[File:Urban Transit in India.svg|thumb|upright=1.3|Map of urban transit systems in India]] Outside the IR network, many Indian cities have their own rail-based public transport systems, including metros, monorails, rapid rails and trams. ===Metros and monorails=== Major metropolitan cities in India have rapid transit systems, which are popularly known as "metros" in India. They have their own railway lines separate from the broad-gauge network. As of 2023, [[Ahmedabad]], [[Bangalore]], [[Chennai]], [[Delhi]], [[Gurgaon]], [[Hyderabad]], [[Jaipur]], [[Kanpur]], [[Kochi]], [[Kolkata]], [[Lucknow]], [[Mumbai]], [[Nagpur]], [[Noida]] and [[Pune]] are served by metro systems. Delhi Metro is the largest metro system which connects to a few other cities nearby. Mumbai is also served by a 20-km monorail line and it is the only city in India with a monorail system. Although other Indian cities had planned monorail projects, most of them were converted to other transport projects as the Mumbai Monorail (which itself has faced calls to be shut down by its own operators) has faced multiple issues. ===Rapid rail=== The '''Regional Rapid Transit System''' ('''RRTS'''), popularly known as '''rapid rail''', is a type of semi-high-speed regional trains the operate between a large urban area and a nearby smaller city. Like metros, they also have their own railway lines separate from the broad-gauge network. As of 2025, only the [[National Capital Region (India)|National Capital Region]] is served by rapid rail with "Namo Bharat" (Bow to India) trains, not to be confused with the ones operating on broad-gauge lines. ===Trams=== Tram systems in India were built by the British in [[Bhavnagar]], [[Bombay]] (Mumbai), [[Calcutta]] (Kolkata), [[Cawnpore]] (Kanpur), [[Cochin]] (Kochi), [[Delhi]], [[Madras]] (Chennai), [[Nashik]] and [[Patna]]. As of 2026, only the Kolkata trams remain and all other cities have phased out trams. Although appreciated for being emissions-free, they are not very popular due to their slow speeds. ==See and do== Enjoy the train, and speak to your fellow passenger. You may meet fascinating, wonderful people. Chai-wallahs and hawkers selling local food and other items roam the carriages and you'll find yourself sharing food and life-stories with the lower-middle-class families travelling with you. ===Scenic routes=== [[File:Konkan - Western Ghats - Scenes from India's Konkan Railway 144.JPG|thumb|The [[Western Ghats]] as seen from an ordinary train on the Konkan Railway.]] Other than narrow-gauge and luxury trains, many regular trains run across the spectacular countryside of India. Here are some of the most scenic routes that are operated as part of the regular train network: * {{see | name=Kashmir Railway | alt=Jammu–Baramulla | url= | email= | address= | lat=33.9 | long=74.8 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Jammu–Baramulla line | image=Srinagar railway station.jpg | wikidata=Q387255 | lastedit=2026-05-14 | content=Completed in 2023, the railway line starts from the flatlands of [[Jammu]] and ends at the hilly town of [[Baramulla]] in [[Jammu and Kashmir]]. It runs across the Pir Panjal hills and crosses the Chenab River with the Chenab Bridge, the highest railway bridge in the world. The route crosses inhospitable terrain, traverse major earthquake zones and be subject to extreme temperatures of cold and heat. }} * {{see | name=Konkan Railway | alt=Mumbai–Mangalore | url=http://www.konkanrailway.com/ | email= | address= | lat=16.9 | long=73.3 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Konkan Railway zone | wikidata=Q1706472 | lastedit=2026-05-14 | content=Completed in 1998, the railway line starts from the bustling cityscape of [[Mumbai]] and ends at the coastal city of [[Mangalore]]. It runs across the mesmerising [[Western Ghats]] from Mumbai to [[Margao|Madgaon]], then runs across the western coast up to Mangalore. }} ==Buy== There are numerous hawkers selling things in trains and stations. You should check the quality of the product before buying it. There are "One Station One Product" stalls at most railway stations, selling local products. ==Eat and drink== [[File:India - Indian Railways Kitchen coach - 0989.jpg|thumb|Making sandwiches in the kitchen coach]] [[File:Train tea.JPG|thumb|Chai on board]] [[File:হাওড়া স্টেশন জন আহার.jpg|thumb|upright=0.9|A Jan Ahaar outlet in [[Howrah]] station]] Eating and sleeping much depend on the type and class of the train. Cuisine in India is very diverse, and as food is usually prepared on stations the train stops at and served on board, you'll have a chance to experience the local cuisine when you travel! In the lower classes such as Sleeper Class there are often also hawkers selling food. Hot food is available at mealtimes on almost every train in India. The food is mostly prepared in kitchens at railway stations and then loaded onto the train, either onto a pantry coach attached to the train (on most important trains), or just brought on board by waiters and distributed directly to passengers. In some trains food is cooked in the pantry coach of the train. In most cases, a waiter collects orders an hour or two before mealtimes and if you don't place an order, you may be left out in the cold, or if you are lucky, you can get some food at many railway junctions. However, in trains having a pantry car, breakfast is prepared on board the train and you do not have to place an order beforehand. You can tell which trains have a pantry car because there is a '''P''' listed with the classes available in ''Trains at a Glance''. Meals available for lunch and dinner are generally vegetarian and non-vegetarian thalis (rice, dal, a vegetable (chicken or fish curries for non-veg thalis), yoghurt (often sour), chapattis and occasionally, a sweet dish) or (veg/egg/chicken) biryani. Chilli chicken (sweet and sour chicken wings with chillis) is often available. Breakfast normally consists of vegetable cutlet and bread, or omelette and bread. Pantry car service always includes the sale of tea, coffee, cold drinks and "namkeen" (chips and other salty snacks). Note that while pantry cars mostly re-distribute food, they do have a small kitchen and, if you're sick of the dal/chapatti that shows up in the thali, it doesn't hurt to visit the pantry car and see if they can rustle up an omlet or some fresh chicken curry with parathas. The quality of food varies, with the fare being better in the South, North and West. The concept of hygiene, taste, and cuisine changes from region to region. Most pantry cars and restaurants at stations are now managed by '''[http://www.irctc.co.in Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC)]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. IRCTC provides satisfactory quality and hygienic food aboard trains and at stations. IRCTC kiosks are ubiquitous where one can find snacks, breakfast, packed foods, biscuits, cookies, mineral water etc. At major stations, IRCTC has licensed [http://www.comesum.com Comesum] to open fine-dine restaurants. There are also ''Jan Aahaar'' outlet at many junctions which provide tasty and healthy food at affordable prices. On Rajdhanis, Vande Bharats, Shatabdis and Durontos, all meals are included in the fare and are served at your seat at mealtimes. If you are finicky, bring enough food and bottled water for the journey including delays: bananas, bread and chocolate bars are good basics to have. Most important stations will have vendors selling all kinds of edible stuff, but the usual caveats about eating in India apply. Often, snacks and food reflect local specialities. ==Sleep== ===In the train=== Some places in the compartment are better than others for sleeping. In addition, the cheaper trains, often rather crammed, without air conditioning and stopping at every station may not offer an optimal environment for a good night's sleep. If you will stop for the night at a railway station you may not need to worry about finding a hotel room as many stations offer accommodation in retiring rooms. The top ('''UB''') and side upper ('''SU''') bunks are best if you are the sort who likes to sleep early or late. The middle ('''MB''') and bottom ('''LB''') bunks are converted into seating area, so you will be forced to stay awake if everyone else in your compartment wants to stay up. Side lower ('''SL''') and upper ('''SU''') bunks are a great idea if you want a window seat, but they are a bit smaller than the other bunks, so don't choose them if you are a tall person. ''Note that '''1A''' and '''FC''' classes do not have '''MB''', '''SL''' or '''SU''' bunks, while '''2A''' does not have '''MB''' bunk.'' ===In the station=== [[File:Capsule Hotel in Olavakkod.jpg|thumb|upright=0.9|Capsule hotel at [[Palakkad]] Junction railway station]] IR operates two hotels in [[New Delhi]] and [[Howrah Station|Howrah]]. Passengers can book independent rooms or dormitories on production of tickets. Known as the '''Rail Yatri Niwas''', the facilities are very basic and the rooms are quite shabby. There is a self-service restaurant. There are also two '''Railway Hotels''' in [[Puri]], [[Odisha]] and [[Ranchi]], [[Jharkhand]], which offer far better service than the ones in New Delhi and Howrah. '''Retiring rooms''' are available at most major railway stations across the country. They offer basic facilities including a bed, mattress, blankets, drinking water, closet, toilet (and in the case of air-conditioned rooms) and a television. You have to produce a reserved journey ticket in order to be able to book retiring rooms. '''Dormitories''', both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned, are available at almost all railway stations in India. * {{sleep | name=Rail Yatri Niwas | alt= | url= | email= | address=New Delhi railway station | lat=28.642314 | long=77.220004 | directions=metro: {{station|New Delhi|city=delhi|2}} | phone=+91 11 2323-3484 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm ₹145/bed, Single Non-AC ₹265, Double Non-AC ₹385/₹450, Double AC ₹850 | lastedit=2022-09-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sampath Rail Yatri Niwas | alt= | url= | email= | address=New Complex, Howrah railway station | lat=22.58205 | long=88.34245 | directions=metro: {{station|Howrah|city=kolkata|2}} | phone=+91 33 2660-1742 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm ₹100/bed, Double Non-AC ₹350, Double AC ₹550, Triple Non-AC ₹400 | image=IRCTC Sampath Rail Yatri Niwas.jpg | lastedit=2022-10-02 | content=Contains dormitory, single room, and double room accommodation. First-class passengers can wait in an air-conditioned area with balcony views of the Kolkata skyline and the Howrah Bridge. }} * {{sleep | name=Railway Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Puri railway station | lat=19.807743 | long=85.838029 | directions= | phone=+91 6752 222-063 | tollfree= | fax=+91 6752 223-005 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single ₹400/₹600, Double Non-A/C ₹/750/₹1000/₹1200, Double A/C ₹900/₹1500, Triple Non-A/C ₹850/₹1700 | lastedit=2022-09-18 | content= }} ==Stay safe== [[File:Man rushing to toilet in an over conjusted general coach in Indian Railways Train during summer holidays.jpg|thumb|Be careful from the crowded trains like this.]] Always '''watch your bags''', especially in and around train stations. Once on a train, chain and lock your bags to the hooks provided under the lowest bunk, or keep them at your head. Make sure to also lock any exterior pockets (keep your toilet paper, and anything else you'll want on the outside). You can buy chains from chain-and-lock sellers who walk around train stations and trains. Do not take '''food or drink''' from any unknown passenger if they insist to do so. Politely decline their offer. There is a small chance the food or drink may be drugged so they can steal your belongings. Smoking and consumption of alcohol on all trains and at all railway stations is prohibited. There is a steep fine for violation of these rules. Contrary to common belief, it is uncommon for passengers to sit on the top of crowded trains in India, which is fairly common in [[Bangladesh]]i trains. However, Indian trains often leave train carriage doors '''open''', even on high-end train services, so mind your step when passing through doors. It is also common among Indian travellers to board on and alight from moving trains. Such moves are obviously risky and travellers should wait until the train has stopped. All the non-AC coaches, especially second class/general compartments, can be overcrowded because of local ticketless passengers. Local trains are also overcrowded during rush hour. So better to adjust in the situation and try not to argue and complain. AC coaches are fairly safe from this problem. In case of any issues (eg overcrowding), use the [https://railmadad.indianrailways.gov.in/madad/final/home.jsp RailMadad]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} application (you can also call 139 from an Indian phone). ==Respect== Railway staff often ask for [[tip]]s in AC classes. ==Connect== Free Wi-Fi facilities, known as RailWire, are available at major railway stations. You'll need to enter a mobile number and get an OTP (one-time PIN). ==Cope== India has two separate police forces for railway policing, namely the '''Railway Protection Force''' ('''RPF''') and the '''Government Railway Police''' ('''GRP'''). Crimes that occur on trains and at railway stations should be reported to the GRP, as the RPF has no investigation power. Don't just look at a map and assume a short trip, it's best to check ''Trains at a Glance'' before making your plans. '''Toilets''' on Indian trains are usually of the squat variety (most carriages have two squat-type and two sit-down type toilets), and are serviceable at best. The cleanliness tends to deteriorate over the duration of a journey, and the toilets may even be broken, but on longer trips toilets are cleaned at intermediate stations. Washbasins are provided both inside and outside the toilets. Shower cubicles are available only on AC First carriages in Rajdhani Express trains. In all reserved classes, every passenger needs to carry a form of '''ID''', though whether your ID will be checked depends on the serving Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE). {{PartOfTopic|Rail travel|India}} {{guidetopic}} n48ph5ulsobw2ldcnsmeu7qu18fpi0e 0 29689 5288899 5264386 2026-06-06T16:30:54Z Madeliine 11a 2419035 /* Get in */ /* Get around */ 5288899 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Riga banner.jpg|caption=Riga Central Market, five pavilions constructed by reusing old German Zeppelin hangars|dotm=yes}} {{printDistricts}} '''Riga''' is the financial, creative, and cultural centre of [[Latvia]]. It is the capital and the largest city in Latvia, it is also the second largest city in the [[Baltic states|Baltic States]] after the [[Lithuania|Lithuanian]] capital [[Vilnius]]. The city lies on the Gulf of Riga, at the mouth of Daugava, Riga has a population of approximately 640,000 inhabitants, or 1/3 of the population of Latvia. The city was part of many empires throughout history, each of which has left its mark on the city. It is famous for Art Nouveau and wooden architecture. Riga's historical centre is listed as a [[UNESCO World Heritage site]]. ==Districts== There are many administrative districts in Riga. However, almost all tourist attractions, historic buildings and hotels are contained within the borders of the relatively small and walkable ''Centra rajons'' district, which is made up of Vecrīga (the old town) and Centrs (the modern-day business district). However if you have already seen the more famous attractions in the city centre, the outer districts do have their own draws too. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Wikivoyage Riga district map PNG.png | regionmaptext=Riga's districts | regionmapsize=400px | region1name=[[Riga/Vecrīga|Vecrīga]] | region1color=#d56d76 | region1items= | region1description=The old town, entirely listed as a [[world heritage site]], is the primary draw for visitors and many of the city's most prominent sights are here. The car-free streets and alleys are lined with restaurants, bars, shops and hotels. The impressive central market lies just south of the old town. | region2name=[[Riga/Centrs|Centrs]] | region2color=#4f93c0 | region2items= | region2description=Centrs, encircling the old town and extending northeast, is the commercial centre of Riga, famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, parks and boulevards. It is also a place to go to for nightlife and hotels; the high-rise Hotel Latvija (which doubles as a landmark) with its Skyline bar on the top floor offers both. | region3name=[[Riga/Outer East Bank|Outer East Bank]] | region3color=#d09440 | region3items= | region3description=Further out on the eastern bank, you have an opportunity to see some more rural attractions including Mežaparks district with the Latvian Song and Dance Festival open air stage, and the city’s zoo. It also includes the district of Maskavas forštate with Jewish heritage. | region4name=[[Riga/Pārdaugava|Pārdaugava]] | region4color=#578e86 | region4items= | region4description=The West Bank of Daugava offers nice parks and beaches, 18th- and 19th-century wooden architecture in Agenskalns, the mountain-shaped building of the National Library of Latvia, and a railway museum. The TV tower on Zaķusala island is the tallest tower in the European Union. Riga International Airport lies just outside the city limits. }} On both sides of the mouth of Daugava river, the Gulf of Riga offers extensive sandy seaside beaches, which can be reached by city bus or train. A [[:commons:category:Vecāķi nude beach|nude beach]] can be found a 15-minute walk out of Vecāķi. ==Understand== {{climate chart |Riga |-4.5 |-0.1 |46.5 |-4.6 |0.3 |40.1 |-1.7 |4.8 |34.1 |2.9 |11.9 |35.0 |8.2 |17.8 |47.5 |12.4 |21.3 |65.0 |14.9 |23.8 |79.5 |14.1 |22.7 |77.9 |9.8 |17.3 |67.1 |4.9 |10.5 |75.6 |1.1 |4.8 |56.3 |-2.4 |1.4 |50.2 |jansnow=250.0 |febsnow=236.0 |marsnow=157.0 |aprsnow=52.0 |maysnow=0.0 |junsnow=0.0 |julsnow=0.0 |augsnow=0.0 |sepsnow=0.0 |octsnow=12.0 |novsnow=70.0 |decsnow=220.0 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Riga]] |description= }} [[File:La rue Alberta (Riga) (7581842090).jpg|thumbnail|right|Alberta street contains many examples of exquisite buildings from the late 19th and early 20th century]] Riga is famous for its [[world heritage]]-listed old town (Vecrīga) and city centre (Centrs), in which over 800 buildings — a third of all buildings — are of the Art Nouveau (aka Jugendstil) style of architecture and thus Riga is one of the best destinations to see this architectural style. Chiefly built in the first years of the 20th century, many of Riga's Art Nouveau buildings were created by ethnic Latvian architects unlike earlier buildings in the city <!--WP:Art Nouveau architecture in Riga#Background -->. The Art Nouveau style involves intricate building facades, with carvings of flowers and mythological creatures, and ornate doorways and windows. A considerable part of the old town was either destroyed by fire or destroyed by the Germans in World War II <!--Russian and Latvian WP do say Vecriga was devastated during WWII with a third of all buildings destroyed --> but many old buildings were also spared. The old town was a draw of the city during the Soviet times and it received protected status in 1967. The damaged parts, most notably the House of the Blackheads, were restored in the late 1990s, mainly to make Riga more attractive as a tourist destination. Another thing that attracts visitors, especially young adults, is the lively nightlife and discount airlines that offer cheap flights to/from much of Europe. Riga is bisected by the river Daugava. Old (medieval) town is in the centre of the city on the east side of the river. It is surrounded by a ring of 19th– to early 20th-century architecture including the Art Nouveau buildings described above, followed by a mix of private 2-floor house districts (many also pre-World War II) and Soviet-era 5-18 floor apartment districts. Especially near railway lines, they are interspersed with industrial plants from different eras, including some from the Imperial Russian era. ===History=== Riga was founded in 1201 by Albert of Bremen as a port city and a base to conquer and convert the native Livonians to Christianity, a goal that was achieved in 1206 after a battle in Turaida during the Northern Crusades. Riga developed as the major trade hub of the area during the peak of the Hanseatic League in the 13th to the 15th centuries and was ruled by the Archbishop of Riga. The Reformation reached Riga in 1522, which ended the Archbishops' power. In 1621, Riga became part of the Kingdom of Sweden, although it maintained a great deal of autonomy. In 1710, an invasion by Peter the Great of Russia ended Swedish rule and cemented Russian influence on the city. Latvia declared its independence on November 18, 1918. It was annexed by the Soviet Union in 1940. Riga served as the capital of the Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic. Germans have inhabited the city since its establishment by Albert, and throughout most of its history, Germans were the elite while Latvians remained a lower class. The Germans' position as the elite continued through the Imperial period of Riga, visible in some of the architecture of the city. The Germans were forcibly evicted after the Nazi occupation of 1941-44. ===Talk=== The official language of Latvia is [[Latvian]]; however, in Riga, the majority of the population speaks both Latvian and [[Russian]], and ethnic Russians form slightly more than a third of the city's population. English is widely spoken by younger people and by people in the tourism industry. [[German]] is also commonly spoken by tour guides. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.riga.lv/en Official website] ==Get in== [[File:RIAN archive 600991 Work of Riga International Airport.jpg|thumbnail|right|View from the waiting room at Riga International Airport]] ===By plane=== [[File:Visit-suomi-2009-05-by-RalfR-282.jpg|thumbnail|Riga International Airport is dominated by the national carrier, Air Baltic, which offers low-fare connections to major cities around the Baltic Sea region and throughout Europe]] *{{go | name=Riga International Airport | alt=Starptautiskā Lidosta Rīga {{IATA|RIX}} | url=http://www.riga-airport.com/ | email= | address= | lat=56.9227 | long=23.9786 | directions=10 km southwest of Riga | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Riga International Airport | image=Riga Airport.JPG | wikidata=Q505421 | content=The airport serves approximately 5 million passengers per year. }} Many flights to/from Riga are operated by [http://www.airbaltic.com/ Air Baltic], [http://www.ryanair.com/ Ryanair], and [http://www.wizzair.com/ Wizz Air]. There are designated areas in the airport where smoking is allowed. '''Getting there and away''': * '''[https://saraksti.rigassatiksme.lv/index.html#bus/22/a-b/1542 Bus route 22]''' runs between the airport and the old town, with a stop near the central bus and railway stations as well as old town. These buses operate as any other public transport in Riga; see [[Riga#Get_around]] for more information on riding the buses. The journey to the old town takes 30-40 minutes. The buses operate whole day, after midnight it goes by number N22 until 4:45am. The bus stop at the airport is easy to reach - it is located at the arrivals hall entrance. There is a ticket machine in the arrivals hall; tickets can also be bought in ticket machines, at the Narvesen shops on the departure and arrivals levels in the airport or in the mobile applications, such as [https://www.rigassatiksme.lv/lv/biletes/bilesu-klasts-un-cenas-1/koda-bilete/ an official application]or [https://www.mobilly.lv/en/welcome-to-mobilly/ Mobilly]. Price of a single ticket is €1.50 and it comes with free transfers within Riga public transport system for 1.5 hours since first activation. You also can pay €1.81 onboard using Visa or Mastercard. Bus will get crowded if there are many incoming flights. * The ride to the centre by taxi takes 15 minutes. Official vouchers are available for purchase, but for a very high price (€33). Some taxis will illegally try to charge even more. :*The best way to hire a '''taxi''' is to use the [http://bolt.eu Bolt Taxi] mobile app, which allows you to see the rates being charged, time to pickup, enter the destination, and pay with the credit card that is linked to your account. :*'''[http://www.baltictaxi.com/ Baltic Taxi]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' runs taxi service from the airport to the centre for a fixed price of €15 if booked online or via metered rates if paid to the driver. Service to the old town takes 15 minutes. :* '''[http://redcab.lv/redcab-taxi/?lang=en Red Cab Taxi]''' offers metered taxi services from the airport. A journey to the city centre costs approximately €12 and the ride takes 15 minutes, depending on the traffic. Wheelchair accessible mini-vans are available but must be pre-ordered. * It is common to use '''carsharing''' apps, which are cheaper than a taxi. Some cars are usually available near airport for taking. Download and register in ''Bolt'' or ''Citybee'' apps before you arrive. ===By bus=== There are international bus connections to anywhere in Europe, including frequent service to [[Tallinn]] and [[Tartu]] in [[Estonia]], and [[Vilnius]] and [[Kaunas]] in [[Lithuania]]. {{Marker|type=go|lat=56.9450 | long=24.1147|name=Riga's main bus station}} is just outside the old town. As of October 2023 there is substantial road and tramway construction underway around the bus station. Expect traffic snarls throughout most of the day. Pedestrian access is limited and may require stairs or negotiating un-even terrain. * '''[http://www.ecolines.net/ Ecolines]''' - operates service between Riga and most major cities in Europe. * '''[http://www.luxexpress.eu/en Eurolines Lux Express]''' - Comfortable & free coffee. Buses to Tallinn or Vilnius take about 4 hours and cost €15-28, but with discounts to €7-9 if you book early. Buses to [[Saint Petersburg]] cost €35. * '''[http://www.flybus.lv/ Flybus]''' - Service between Riga and the airports of [[Kaunas]] and [[Vilnius]]. * '''[https://www.traveller.ee/tour/tallinn-riga-bus-tour Traveller Tours]''' - Minibus sightseeing tours from [[Tallinn]] to Riga, stopping off at different sights along the way. €55 === By train === [http://www.pv.lv/en/ '''AS Pasazieru vilciens'''] (meaning "Passenger Trains Company") operates service to many cities in Latvia, including the suburbs of Riga. You can book tickets online via the Latvian Railways site up to 45 days in advance, but tickets must be collected from a station in Latvia. A daily train runs from Lithuania, reservations compulsory. It leaves [[Vilnius]] at 07:00, stops at [[Siauliai]], Joniškis and [[Jelgava]], and reaches Riga at 11:04. You can reach Riga from Estonia by transferring to a southbound Lithuanian train at [[Valga]]. The Estonian train departs [[Tallinn]] at 10:25 and [[Tartu]] at 12:54, arriving at Valga at 13:54. The Lithuanian train departs Valga at 14:11 and reaches Riga at 16:37. The Lithuanian train then continues south from Riga to Vilnius. * {{go | name=Riga central station | alt=Rīgas Pasažieru stacija | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=South of Centrs, east of the old town and with good public transport connections to all parts of Riga | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2660080 | lastedit=2023-12-22 | content= }} ===By car=== Riga has good road connections with Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus. Riga is on the [[Via Baltica]] and ~300 km from Tallinn and Vilnius. In the city centre, you have to pay a [https://www.rigassatiksme.lv/en/services/parking-services/ fee for public parking]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} which varies depending from distance to the centre. ===By yacht=== {{go | name=Andrejosta Marina | url=https://www.eastbaltic.eu/andrejosta-marina/ | lat=56.95988861870789 | long=24.09759976309683 | content=Andrejosta - small gulf in the right side of Daugava, where the Riga channel meets Daugava river. Located at walking distance from the old town of Riga where the most of touristic attractions are located. 150 berths. }} {{go | name=City Yacht Club (Pilsētas Jahtklubs) | url=https://www.eastbaltic.eu/city-yacht-club/ | lat=56.953194493496085 | long=24.086573720534957 | content=City Yacht Club is located in Ķīpsala – an island on the left bank of the Daugava river, connected to Riga city centre and Pārdaugava by the Shroud Bridge. Ķīpsala is only 3 km from the Riga Old City where all tourism services are available. Behind the Pier there is a shopping centre. 200 berths. }} ==Get around== <!--{{User:Soshial/maps/Riga}}--> ===On foot=== Vecrīga mainly comprises rounded cobblestone streets that may be hard to walk on if you are not wearing proper shoes. Outside of Vecrīga, most streets are paved with asphalt, although some smaller streets may be unpaved. Sidewalks are predominantly concrete everywhere. Vecrīga is best explored on foot. Due to the neglected drainage system, the streets may be flooded during heavy downpours. ===By public transport=== [[File:Old tram Riga Latvia.JPG|thumbnail|right|The "retro" tram in Riga]] [[File:Riga tram map 2019.png|thumb|[[File:Tram-Logo.svg|20px]] (2019)]] [[File:15T-57169 Radio iela.jpg|thumbnail|Modern low-floor Skoda trams are the mainstay of the Rigas Satiksme tram fleet]] The city-owned [https://www.rigassatiksme.lv/en/ Rigas Satiksme company] operates the '''trams''' (street-cars), '''buses''', and '''trolleybuses'''. They all use the same e-ticket system called ''e-talons''. A single fare of €1.50 covers any amount of rides on any route independent of the distance and is valid for 90 minutes. For routes, timetables and live traffic see Rigas Satiksme's official route planner<ref>https://saraksti.lv/#/en</ref>. Single fare is €1.50 if purchased in advance. The most convenient app that accepts foreign phone numbers is '''[https://mobilly.lv/en Mobilly]''', because it not only allows you to purchase local tickets, but also tickets for remote trains and buses in the same place. You can top-up your app wallet with credit or pay the "missing" amount directly (every transaction is minimum €3, but presumably you'll need a return ticket at some point). Do not forget to activate the ticket by scanning the vehicle QR code. Otherwise, an '''''e-talons'' card''' can be purchased from a ticket office, vending machine, select shops, app or other location listed on the Rigas Satiksme website. These electronic tickets are for one time charge only, without deposit. You pay the number of rides that you want on them (even if it is just one ride), and discard after using up all rides. Unlimited 24-hour ride card costs €5, 3-day card costs €8, and 5-day card costs €10. The cards all are activated by using the yellow device in the vehicles. You must activate all cards every time that you enter a vehicle. On some Latvian public holidays (January 1st, May 4th, June 23rd and 24th, November 18th, December 31st) Riga public transport is free. Tram lines are numbered 1 to 14; bus lines are numbered 1 to 63; trolleybus lines are numbered 1 to 35. Night buses are numbered N1, N2, N3, N4, N6, N7, N10 and they only operate on Friday and Saturday nights. Night nus N22 opperates every night. While the numbers are similar, the routes are completely different - i.e. bus #13 is totally different from trolleybus #13. Tram numbers on stops are identified by "Tr", buses (not trolleybuses) by "A". Stops are marked by a blue rectangular sign with a stylized white image of the vehicle and lists the numbers that stop there. Timetables and stops of the route are also usually posted at stops and are fairly accurate. On timetables yellow-orange background is for bus routes, red for trams and blue for trolleybusses. The vehicles include screens with next stop information, which may ocassionally malfunction, and audible stop announcements Trams are generally the fastest public transportation apart from trains. Although they are on the street level and the rails are not physically separated from the rest of the traffic, in all but the busiest rush hours they have the right of way. ===By bicycle=== '''[http://www.sixtbicycle.lv/en/ SIXT Latvia]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' operates self-service bicycle rentals at bicycle stands across the city. The service is available to both residents and guests of Riga. You must have a mobile phone to register, but registration is free. The bikes have 3 speeds and lights, but no helmets. The advertised price on the website is €0.90 per 30 minutes, with a maximum of €9 per day. However, the effective amount charged seems to be €0.99 (Oct 2017) per half hour (the first minute of a subsequent half hour counts as a full 30 minutes). Alternatively, ask your hotel if they provide bicycle rental. Downtown Rīga has a lot of cobblestone streets, so be prepared for a bumpy ride. Bike lanes and paths exist but are not always marked clearly. On main roads, you may occasionally end up finding yourself on the wrong side of a guardrail. ===By electric scooter=== From April to September a good way to go short distances is by electric scooter, which are abundant on city streets. Download ''Bolt'', ''Citybee'' or ''Ride'' apps to use them. As with bicycles, be careful when driving cobblestone streets. If you are 17 years of age or under, you need protective gear. It is illegal for two or more people to ride electric scooter. Price starts from €0.70 for an ultra short ride. ===By taxi=== The best way to hire a taxi is to use the [https://bolt.eu/ Bolt], [https://www.pandataxi.lv/taxi-in-riga.html Panda Taxi] or [https://redcab.lv/booking-a-taxi/?lang=en Red Cab] mobile app, which allow you to see the rates being charged, time to pickup, enter the destination, and pay with the credit card that is linked to your account. If you hail a random taxi on the street, be aware that the taxi may not follow the most direct route and may use a meter rate that will significantly overcharge you. ===By car=== It is not advisable to get around Riga by car unless you need to move things around. The street infrastructure has the same capacity as when it was planned, and traffic jams are the norm during working hours, which is most of the day. Traffic can be extremely slow, especially on the bridges. It can be difficult to find a parking spot in Riga during working hours. In the very centre and the old town of Riga and on the Ķīpsala island [https://www.rigassatiksme.lv/en/services/parking-services/parking-services/ parking services require a fee in certain streets]. In the old town this can be up to €8/hour. There are several car rental offices at the Riga airport and in other parts of the town. You can even rent a cheap Soviet-style car. ====Drunk driving==== Driving under influence is considered a serious law violation. Besides high fines and a seized driving license you can easily end up serving 10-15 days in an administrative arrest. Maximum alcohol contents in the blood must not exceed 0.05 g/dL. There are plenty of police patrols and it is very common to be stopped for an alcohol test. ===By carsharing=== It is common in Riga to use carsharing apps. There are almost always some cars available near the center. The price is based on distance and time, but as a rule of thumb, it is usually about 30-40% cheaper than a taxi. Hourly / daily and even monthly packages are available. Download and register on ''Bolt'', ''Citybee'', ''Fiqsy'' apps before you arrive (driving license must be uploaded and approved). There is even a Tesla carsharing app available - check ''OX Drive'' app. ===By boat=== [https://www.visitjurmala.lv/lv/dari/ka-noklut/ar-kugiti/ Boat service] is available from May to September from/to [[Jūrmala]]. The boats stop in Riga stop near the Stone Bridge (Akmens Tilts), which is right next to the House of Blackheads/Riga Tourist Information Centre, in the old town. The trip costs €15-20 and takes 2½ hours -- it is much slower and more expensive than train service. ==See== {{seeDistricts}} [[File:Vistas desde la iglesia de San Pedro, Riga, Letonia, 2012-08-07, DD 12.JPG|thumb|The view northeast over the Vecrīga from St. Peter's Church|250x250px]]For tourists, the most interesting districts are Vecrīga (the UNESCO-listed Old Town) and the area around the nearby '''Freedom Monument''', which do double duty as the setting of Riga's foremost historic sites and the centre of its burgeoning nightlife. In Vecrīga, the two main clusters of historic sites lie just a few blocks from each other: '''Town Hall Square''', which contains the striking 13th-century '''House of Blackheads''', the Town Hall (built in 2003 as a down-to-the-last-detail copy of the 17th-century original), and '''Riga Cathedral''' and the square surrounding it. There you'll also find important museums such as the '''National History Museum of Latvia''' (in '''Riga Castle''') and the '''Museum of the Occupation of Latvia''', as well as remnants of the Medieval-era city fortifications popping up here and there. Further out from Vecrīga is Riga's modern-day downtown (Centrs). Aside from the aforementioned Freedom Monument, architecture buffs flock here to admire the beautifully preserved Art Nouveau row houses on '''Alberta iela''' and other nearby streets — one of the densest clusters of architecture of that style in the world — as well as still more museums, such as Latvia's '''National Museum of Art'''. However, there are places worth visiting outside the city centre. Some other old and well-preserved urban districts that are relatively unvisited by tourists include Agenskalns and Tornakalns, just over the Stone bridge. Further out, the residential areas on the periphery of town are largely made up of gray apartment blocks built in the typically Soviet style. These areas are nearly identical to those all over [[Eastern Europe]]. However, they do give an idea of how the vast majority of the people in Riga live and of the history of the area. The '''[http://rigapass.lv/ Riga Pass]''', which costs {{EUR|16-26}}, has discounts for museums and some tourist attractions. ===Organised tours=== The tourist office, inside the House of Blackheads, offers guided tours and free pamphlets, complete with detailed descriptions of many buildings, for independent walks. These walks cover the old town, the nearby city centre sights, and the Art Nouveau district. It's easy to do each of these in around an hour, or linger and read every detail in the booklet. In the absence of any signs or plaques around the city, the booklet gives you an insight to what you are seeing. Many private companies offer organized tours of Riga. Options include bike tours, Segway tours, pub crawls, hop-on-hop-off bus tours, walking tours, free tours, and tours focused on a certain aspect of Riga - away from the touristy old town. ==Do== {{seeDistricts}} If you're interested in '''classical culture''', head to the National Opera in the Old Town to enjoy opera or ballet or to the Koncertzāle Ave Sol a little further north. The city has several pleasant parks, notably around the city canal and further north into Centrs. Another interesting park is Mežaparks in the north of the city with beautiful old villas and Riga's zoo. It's also possible to do a boat ride on the canal, making a tour around the old town on the Daugava river. Start point is near the Freedom Monument. Also, check out the nearby sights of the [[Riga region]], some of which allow for a good day trip from Riga due to the frequent and comprehensive travel options of the region. * '''Football:''' the men's national soccer team play at Daugava Stadium, 3 km east of city centre. City clubs playing soccer in Virslīga, the top tier, are [https://rigafc.lv/ Riga FC] and [https://fkrfs.lv/ RFS]. [http://www.fsmetta.lv/ Metta] play in Future League the second tier. FK Auda play in Virslīga at Kekava 15 km south. The playing season is April-Nov. ===Adrenaline sports=== Riga and its surroundings are popular destinations for adrenaline sports, which can be booked online, from most hostels and hotels, or from any local travel agent. The activities generally include transfers to/from your accommodation and all necessary supplies. Popular activities include bobsledding, AK-47 shooting (€40), bungee jumping from a cable car, scenic flights, canoeing, kayaking, go-karting, golfing, paintball, drift biking, husky dog sledding (€40), indoor skydiving (€60), laser tag in an old factory (€50) and driving a 4x4 off-road. * {{do | name=GUNS Funnel | alt= | url=https://guns.funnel.lv/peintbols/riga/andrejsala/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-10-24 | content= }} * {{do | name=Wolftrike Drift Hall | alt= | url=http://www.driftahalle.lv/?lang=en | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-10-24 | content= }} * {{do | name=Rīgas Lāzertags | alt= | url=https://www.rigaslazertags.lv/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-10-24 | content= }} ===Festivals and events=== * {{do | name=Easter | alt=Lieldienas | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Egg fights! }} * {{do | name=Count of May | alt=Maija Grāfs | url=http://www.maijagrafs.lv/ | email= | address=Spīķeru laukums | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Medieval festival. Takes place annually in mid-May. }} * {{do | name=Latviabeerfest | alt= | url=http://www.latviabeerfest.lv/en/ | email=info@latviabeerfest.lv | address=Vērmanes garden | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371 27 726 200 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Takes place annually at the end of May. The largest international beer festival in the Baltics. }} * {{do | name=Jāņi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On June 24, Latvians celebrate the summer solstice with the midsummer festival called Jāņi. Before the celebration, flea markets are held in many places. }} * {{do | name = Latvian Song and Dance Festival | alt = Latvian Vispārējie latviešu Dziesmu un Deju svētki | url =https://www.latviansongfest2022.org/?lang=en | email = | address = Mežaparka Lielā estrāde or Vērmanes garden, [[Riga]] | lat = | long = | directions = | phone =+371 28611731 | tollfree = | fax = | hours = Takes place once every 5 years, at the beginning of July | price = | content = One of the key cultural events in Latvia, which started in 1873 as a singing festival. This festival has become an important facet of Latvian culture and has been held 25 times since then. There are smaller Song and Dance Festivals between 5-year time spans. About 30,000 people from every corner of the country participate, with choirs and dance groups at the heart of the celebrations. Brass bands, folk ensembles, players of the zither-like kokle, amateur theatrical troupes, and foreign guests also perform at the festival. The traditional procession through the street of Riga is not to be missed, as the participants invoke plenty of enthusiastic audience participation. }} * {{do | name=Rīga City Day | alt=Rīgas svētki | url=https://rigasvasara.lv/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Takes place the whole of August | price= |lastedit=2025-08-02| content=Traditional weekend of celebrating a city. Many cultural events take place all around the city. }} * {{do | name = White Night | alt = Baltā nakts | url = http://baltanakts.lv/ | email = | address =| lat = | long = | directions = | phone = | tollfree = | fax = | hours = Annually, in the beginning of September | price = | content = }} * {{do | name = Riga Rhythms Festival | alt = Rīgas Ritmi festivāls | url = http://www.rigasritmi.lv/en/home | email = | address = | lat = | long = | directions = | phone = +371 67 105 216 | tollfree = | fax = | hours = Takes place annually, at the end of June/start of July; 18:00–00:00 | price = Some events cost €10-45, some are free | content = }} * {{do | name=International Baltic Ballet Festival | alt= | url=http://en.ballet-festival.lv/ | email=info@ballet-festival.lv | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371 673 36 123 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=April | price= | content= }} ===Sports=== * {{do | name = Lattelecom Marathon | alt = Lattelecom Rīgas maratons | url = http://lattelecomrigasmaratons.lv | email = marathon@necom.lv | address = 11. novembru krastmala | lat = | long = | directions = | phone = +371 28611731 | tollfree = | fax = | hours = Held in the middle of May | price = | content = The biggest sport marathon held since 2007 in Latvia. }} * {{do | name = Playground | alt = | url = http://www.playgroundfestival.eu/ | email = info@playgroundfestival.eu | address = Ropaži, 40 min drive from [[Riga]] | lat = | long = | directions = | phone = +371 29212586 | tollfree = | fax = | hours = Mid-July | price = €15/day, €35/3 days | content = Youth sport festival that encourages and enables every visitor to try to explore inspiring sports and culture on water, land and air (e.g. longboarding, SUP, wakeboarding, hydro-cycles, mountain bikes, slack line). }} === Jewish legacy === Riga had a significant Jewish population during the [[Russian Empire]] period and therefore has a significant Jewish legacy. * Great Choral Synagogue ruins * Jews in Latvia museum * Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust museum === Soviet legacy === Usually remembered as a period of pity and shame (depends on who you ask though), Latvia was part of USSR for almost 50 years and was twice occupied by Soviets (in 1940 and 1944). This period is characterized by mass building of cheap and brutalist residential "sleeper" districts (to accommodate large influx of immigrants from "brotherly" Soviet republics), as well as some remarkable Stalinist style architecture. Some places worth attention are: * '''Latvian Academy of Sciences''' - in the city centre, it is an example of Stalinist "Birthday cake" architecture (sometimes referred to as Socialist Classicism). The spire was built with a wreath and a five pointed star, which was removed after Latvia regained independence in 1991. The building is a cousin to similar Stalin-era skyscrapers and resembles many others built in the Soviet Union and Eastern Bloc at the time, most notably the main building of Moscow State University and Warsaw's Palace of Culture and Science. There is an observation dock on the top, price to visit is €6. * '''Spilve Airport''' - a half-abandoned terminal building, which was completed in 1954, remains as a notable example of Stalin's neoclassical architecture. There is a hammer and sickle on top of the building in all its glory - one of the few places where this symbol of USSR was not torn down and remains openly seen (it is illegal to display it in Latvia except in historical context). A large technical school existed here until the 1990s for major Soviet aircraft types, including Ilyushin Il-18, Ilyushin Il-62 and Tupolev Tu-134. On the other side (through the gate) is a cafe/bar with a nice view of the airfield and for watching young pilots training (open in summertime), and it is also possible to see the original airport inner façade, with signs both in Latvian and Russian language. There are also tours available inside the building from time to time, but you'll need to ask around or contact Spilve airport directly. The tour is definitely worth it - interior is lavish, well kept, with intricate details. Interestingly, the airport building was a scene of many rave parties in the 90s. Socialist realism wall paintings are the best - each one of them has a story! * '''Bolderaja district''' - a tour there is recommended for the adventurous types and ones who wish to really know what was living in Soviet Latvia possibly like. Most of the Soviet-built brutalist houses there, both from Stalin's and Khrushchev's era, still stand there with little or no renovation. Silikatu iela is a good place to start exploring. A former semi-military zone (due to its closeness to strategically important mouth of river Daugava), very different from modern Riga, eerily empty and atmospheric, it seems frozen in time. Some folks living there have not ventured outside it for decades. Check out the local bathhouses ("pirts" in Latvian) and authentic eatery / restaurant (Rozā pērle). There is also an interesting fortress nearby - Daugavgrivas cietoksnis - a closed military zone on weekdays, but available for visitors on weekend. The oldest, pre-Soviet part, still hosting a number of original fishermans' houses and local river "beach" frequented by locals, is located around Liela iela, Miglas iela and Kodola iela. You might also try to reach the nearby sea beach and have a swim while watching ships entering / departing Riga port. Bolderaja district area is not frequently visited by tourists, so try not to disturb locals and attract too much attention to yourself. Reachable by bus #3 from city center in about 30 minutes. * '''Cafe Veronika''' - if you haven't had enough of Soviet "aesthetics", you might try to visit this eatery and have a Soviet-style meal. It is close to the center, but a bit difficult to find, this is another place which seems frozen in time. It is very cheap (a day offer can be had for €4) and includes authentic service from the bygone times - a buffet-style choice, aluminum pots, self service for dishes, artificial marble columns and wall / ceiling paintings. As with Bolderaja district, keep in mind, this is not a tourist attraction but an actual eatery for working class, so keep your profile low and be polite with the staff and locals. Address: Ganibu dambis 18c, search Google Maps for location and photos. ==Buy== {{infobox|Russian Language School of Baltic International Academy Scam| Russian Language School scams are extremely common in Riga. One such school that has cheated foreigners is Russian Language School of Baltic International Academy Lomonosova Street 1/4 - 308. They take money for intensive classes and then when they are unable to offer them will not refund one's money. They have several classes for free for locals meeting only a few hours a week. The only good reviews are from the locals or people living in Riga who got free classes.}} {{seeDistricts}} Buy items like amber and wool mittens and socks in the central market or throughout Vecrīga in little stands. You might haggle and get good prices for souvenirs. During the Christmas season there is a small [[Christmas market]] in the main square of old town which offers lots of festive fare and hot wine. Like in other cities around the world, you can find '''shopping malls''' in the suburbs along most major thoroughfares. While not attractions in themselves, they may come in handy especially if you get around by car; you can buy things you need on your trip, some Latvian specialties to bring home or have a quick meal there. ==Eat== {{seeDistricts}} [[File:Restaurace Lido.jpg|thumbnail|right|The Lido Restaurant complete with a windmill]] Riga, as the most vibrant and cosmopolitan city of the Baltics, offers countless opportunities to sample both local cuisine and international favorites. [[Latvia#Eat|Latvian food]] can be hearty, using a lot of potato, cabbage, beef, pork and fish. A diversity of foreign cuisines is also available — sushi restaurants in particular are in vogue. The most central districts Vecriga and Centrs are the places to go for the widest selection of restaurants, though there are certainly also places to eat elsewhere in the city. There are a couple of local restaurant chains that have eateries in many different parts of Riga: * {{eat | name=Čili Pica | url=http://www.cili.lv/ | email= | address=Several locations | lat= | long= | directions=one near the Freedom Monument, another on the ground floor of the Stockmann mall near central station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Cheap but good pizza. }} * {{eat | name=Lido | url=https://www.lido.lv/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A network of 8 restaurants offering decent hearty Latvian food, including desserts, at good prices. The restaurants are either cafeteria-style or feature English menus. }} The Vecriga district has seen a rise in tourist trap restaurants. It is advisable to scrutinise and memorize the price and size of the advertised offer against what is actually being served. ==Drink== {{infobox|Bar scams in Latvia|Latvia is home to a number of fraud/extortion scams in bars, run by the local mobs. [[Clip joint|A common scam]], which targets men, begins by having someone randomly coax you into a bar. Upon buying a drink, you will be presented with a bill for as much as €100. If you can't pay with cash, the bar will take credit cards – or you might be forced to withdraw money from their handy ATM. If you ask, you will even be presented with a menu and the €100 price listed. If you refuse to pay, the exit door will most likely be blocked by a large bouncer. The trick to avoiding this scam is not to enter a bar recommended to you by someone on the street. A variation of this scam occurs when someone you meet on a dating app, such as Tinder, suggests meeting at one of these bars – or takes you there after first meeting at a more reputable place. The trick here is to check the online reviews of any establishment a stranger invites you to. Below is a list of bars/clubs in Riga known to conduct these scams (as of September 2025). Many are strip bars or locations of prostitution rings. These shady establishments change their names often to escape lists like these and continue extorting unwitting travelers, so use your judgment when entering a bar. * '''Atspulgs''' (formerly Livu Krodzins Bar, Lord’s Pub, Groks Pub, and Royal Pub) – Kalku 22; on the eastern corner of Livu Square; the most active (and obvious) scam bar in Riga. * '''Medusa Lounge''' (formerly Enigma, Puzzle, and Pink Panther) – Kalku 22; the entrance is next door to Atspulgs. * '''Karaoke Club''' (formerly Burlesque Club, Roxy Klub, and Babylon) – Kalku 24; next to Medusa Lounge, just east of Atspulgs, near the entrance to Vecrīga on Kalku street. * '''Bar Fly''' (aka '''Fly Bar''') – Gleznotāju 4; near Livu Square in a small street to the south of scam bars on Kalku; the sign announcing this is Bar Fly is very small; above the door in larger text is written ''Ūdenspīpji Klubs''. * '''Royal Club''' (formerly Golden Dolls Night Club, Zephry Bar, and Kapsula Bar) – Aspazijas bulvāris 32; its latest incarnation is less blatantly scammy, but still expect expensive drinks and a poor show. }} {{seeDistricts}} ===Cafes=== Black coffee in Latvia is traditionally served unfiltered and quite strong in small cups. If you are used to filtered coffee, you may want to have a "white coffee" (with either milk, whipped milk or cream), or you want to have a glass of water on the side. Coffee "to go" has become increasingly popular, and many of the coffee chains offer coffee served in paper cups with lids. ===Bars=== Riga is a major nightlife destination for tourists and bars here are often open later than those in other European cities. On average, bars in Vecrīga will charge €2-3 per beer and bars outside of Vecrīga will charge €1.50-2 per beer. A specialty liquor is '''Riga Balsam''', which is an acquired taste. ===Clubs=== Riga is known for a sparkling nightlife. There is a difference in style between 'Russian' clubs and 'Latvian' clubs. ==Sleep== {{seeDistricts}} Hotels and hostels in general offer free WiFi and many have computer terminals. Almost all accept credit cards. Unsurprisingly the largest concentration of hotels are in and around Vecrīga. For budget accommodation, head to the eastern half of the old town and the surroundings of the railway station. Upscale hotels are to be found in the core of Vecrīga and around the Esplanade Park in Centrs. ==Stay safe== Riga is generally safe if you know how to take the basic precautions. Riga's old town is extremely safe at all times, as are the city's major thoroughfares. On the other hand, certain areas in the city's western parts have had their share of crime since the fall of the USSR. Many Latvians will tell you that any Russian-speaking neighbourhood is rife with crime and violence. While this may be blown out of proportion due to historical tensions, poorer parts of Riga with significant Russian populations do need to be avoided after dark. Alcohol consumption in Riga is high and bar fights are relatively common. It is wise to be level-headed and not escalate a situation. See the info box in the [[Riga#Drink]] section regarding common bar scams in Riga. [[File:Russian embassy in Riga alinco fan.jpg|thumbnail|right|The Russian Embassy in Riga at night]] ==Cope== ===Embassies=== Many details can also be found here: https://www.embassypages.com/latvia * {{flag|Canada}} {{listing | name=Canada | alt= | url=http://international.gc.ca/world-monde/latvia-lettonie/index.aspx?lang=eng | email=riga@international.gc.ca | address=20/22 Baznicas St 6F | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371 67813945 | tollfree= | fax=+371 67813960 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Denmark}} {{listing | name=Denmark | alt= | url=http://letland.um.dk/ | email=rixamb@um.dk | address=Pils iela 11 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371 67 226 210 | tollfree= | fax=+371 67 820 234 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Finland}} {{listing | name=Finland | url=http://www.finland.lv| email=sanomat.rii@formin.fi | address= Kalpaka bulvaris 1, LV-1605 Riga| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371-6707 8800 | tollfree= | fax=+371-6707 8814 | hours=M-F 08:30-12:00, 13:00-16:30 | price= | content= }} *{{flag|Georgia}} {{listing | name=Georgia | alt= | url=http://www.latvia.mfa.gov.ge/default.aspx?sec_id=430&lang=1 | email=riga.emb@mfa.gov.ge | address=Raina bulvaris 3-19, LV -1050 Riga| lat=56.954013 | long=24.109513 | directions= | phone=+371 7225812 | tollfree= | fax=+371 7225812 | hours=M-F 08:00-17:00 | price= | lastedit= | content= }} *{{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany | alt= | url=http://www.riga.diplo.de/Vertretung/riga/de/Startseite.html | email=info@riga.diplo.de | address=Raina Bulvaris 13 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371 67085100 | tollfree= | fax=+ 371 67085149 | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{flag|Greece}} {{listing | name=Greece | url=http://www.mfa.gr/missionsabroad/latvia.html | email=greekemb-riga@mfa.gr | address=Elizabetes str. 11, Appt. 5 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371 6735-6345, +371 2009-3089 (Emergencies) | tollfree= | fax=+371 6735-6351 | hours=09:00-17:00 | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Ireland}} {{listing | name = Ireland | url = https://www.ireland.ie/en/latvia/riga/ | email = | address = Alberta iela 13 | lat = | long = | directions = | phone = +371 6703-9370, +371 6703-9370 (Emergencies) | tollfree = | fax = +371 6703 9371 | hours = | price = | lastedit = 2025-06-01 | content = }} * {{flag|Italy}} {{listing | name=Italy | alt= | url=http://www.ambriga.esteri.it/ambasciata_riga/it/ | email=consolare.riga@esteri.it | address=Teatra iela 9 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371 6721-6069 | tollfree= | fax=+371 6721 6084 | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{flag|Japan}} {{listing | name=Japan | url=http://www.lv.emb-japan.go.jp/ | email= | address=Vesetas iela 7 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371 6781-2001, +371 6781-2002 | tollfree= | fax=+371 6781-2004 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Norway}} {{listing | name=Norway | url= http://www.norvegija.lv/| email=emb.riga@mfa.no | address=Kaļķu ielā 15 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371 67814100 | tollfree= | fax=+371 67814108 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Spain}} {{listing | name=Spain | alt= | url=http://www.exteriores.gob.es/embajadas/riga/es/Paginas/inicio.aspx | email=emb.riga@maec.es | address=Elizabetes iela 11 3 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371 6732-0281 | tollfree= | fax=+371 6732 5005 | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{flag|Sweden}} {{listing | name=Sweden | alt= | url=http://www.swedenabroad.com/sv-SE/Ambassader/Riga/ | email=ambassaden.riga@gov.se | address=Andreja Pumpura iela 8 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371 6768 6600 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{flag|Russia}} {{listing | name=Russia | alt=Посольство Российской Федерации | url=http://latvia.mid.ru/ | email= rusembas@ml.lv | address=Antonijas 2| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371 67332151 | tollfree= | fax=+371 67830209 | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{flag|Ukraine}} {{listing | name=Ukraine | url=http://latvia.mfa.gov.ua | email=emb_lv@mfa.gov.ua | address= Kalpaka bulvaris 3| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371 6724 3082 | tollfree= | fax=+371 6732 5583| hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|United Kingdom}} {{listing | name=United Kingdom | url=https://www.gov.uk/government/world/latvia | email=britishembassy.riga@fco.gov.uk| address= J.Alunana iela 5| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371 6777 4700 | tollfree= | fax=+371 6777 4707| hours=M-Th 08:30-17:00, F 08:30-13:30 | price= | content= }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States |alt=| url=https://lv.usembassy.gov/ | email=askconsular-riga@state.gov | address=Samnera Velsa iela 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+371 6703 6200 | tollfree= | fax=+371 6782 0047 | hours= | price= |wikipedia=|wikidata=|image=|lastedit=2018-03-04| content= }} ==Go next== The Baltic states are compact and virtually all of the region is within 300 km of Riga, at least as the crow flies. All of Latvia and a large part of what Estonia and Lithuania has to offer is doable as a daytrip if you have a car. However, larger cities listed below do have several days' worth of attractions. ====Latvia==== [[File:Blue flag beach Jūrmala - panoramio.jpg|thumb|Jūrmala's beaches are just around 20 km from Riga]] * [[Sigulda]] &ndash; A town in central Latvia with many interesting castles and historic points of interest. Probably, the most popular destination outside of Riga for foreign tourists, also due to its closeness. * [[Jūrmala]] &ndash; A popular holiday and sea resort town with wooden houses just west of Riga, which claims to have the longest beach in Northern Europe. * [[Salaspils]] &ndash; a former German concentration camp site 15 km southeast of Riga. * [[Ligatne]] &ndash; A village fairly well known for its nature trails, with a great natural park with wildlife animals and "fairy tale" forests with characters from famous Latvian fairy tales. Nearby, also an old Soviet bunker complex can be visited, which was built in case of a nuclear war. * [[Cēsis]] &ndash; One of the country's oldest towns. It has an impressive castle complex of Livonian Order origin, a charming city centre with some cobblestoned streets, and historic wooden buildings. * [[Liepāja]] &ndash; Named "the city of wind", and the southwestern most city of Latvia. Famous for its sandy beach, numerous music events, and the largest organ in the world. It features modern architecture and a long history along with the formerly secret Soviet military neighbourhood of Karosta (literally: War Port). * [[Valka]] &ndash; A unique town on the [[Estonia|Estonian]] border, which runs through the town centre, creating [[Valga]] on the other side. It is close to regaining the status of an important cultural centre. ====[[Estonia]]==== * [[Tartu]] &ndash; Museum-rich and hanseatic city on the banks of the Emajõgi River. Also, Estonia's second-largest and oldest city, intellectual hub famous for its universities, and a lively student city. Accessible from Riga by direct bus. * [[Tallinn]] &ndash; The capital, and financial and cosmopolitan centre of Estonia, with a medieval Old Town. Beautiful and expensive. A 5-hour bus trip from Riga. * [[Pärnu]] &ndash; Estonia's 4th largest city and the summer capital of Estonia, popular for its balneo-therapy complexes and spa centres, surrounded by numerous beaches, little more than halfway to Tallinn. ====[[Lithuania]]==== * [[Vilnius]] &ndash; The capital of Lithuania; a 5-hour bus trip from Riga. * [[Kaunas]] &ndash; The second-largest city in Lithuania. * [[Klaipėda]] &ndash; A beach town near [[Nida]] and the [[Curonian Spit]]. * [[Šiauliai]] &ndash; Famous for the Hill of Crosses. ====[[Sweden]]==== * [[Stockholm]] - accessible via direct ferry from Riga; 17-hour journey {{routebox-1 | image1=Tabliczka E22.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Ventspils]] | minorl1= | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Moscow]] | minorr1=[[Rēzekne]] | image2=Tabliczka E67.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=N | majorl2=[[Tallinn]] | minorl2=[[Saulkrasti]] | directionr2=S | majorr2=[[Kaunas]] | minorr2=[[Bauska]] | image3=Tabliczka E77.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=SW | majorl3=[[Kaliningrad]] | minorl3=[[Jelgava]] | directionr3=NE | majorr3=[[Pskov]] | minorr3=[[Sigulda]] }} {{guidecity}} {{geo|56.948889|24.106389|zoom=12}} {{isPartOf|Riga region}} iucahwbvgbtwjy6qyw6mequi1ofasbt 0 31301 5288906 5286504 2026-06-06T16:55:36Z Mrkstvns 144844 /* Do */ Added listing for Parque El Capitan 5288906 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Monterrey Western suburbs Punto Central building in San Pedro Garza García.jpg|pgname=Western suburbs of Monterrey}} [[File:San Pedro Garza García.jpg|thumb|San Pedro Garza Garcia]] The '''Western suburbs''' of [[Monterrey]] consist of two municipalities - '''San Pedro Garza Garcia''' and '''Santa Catarina'''. [[File:MTY-SantaCatarina.jpg|thumb|Santa Catarina]] San Pedro Garza Garcia (often referred to locally as simply "San Pedro") is the wealthiest part of Monterrey, consisting of elegant neighborhoods, glitzy upscale shopping centers, towering high rise buildings and myriad restaurants and international hotels. This is a very modern area with most development occurring since 1997. Development continues to occur as new commercial centers and mixed use centers are in the western part of San Pedro (Valle Poniente). Santa Catarina is a low-key, sprawling, working-class neighborhood that is a gateway to La Huasteca and the Cumbres National Park --- magnets for outdoor enthusiasts. Santa Catarina is home to many foreign-owned maquilladoras and industrial plants. Shopping centers and businesses line the main roadways, such as the Carreterra Monterrey-Saltillo. New mixed use development is happening in the eastern part of Santa Catarina, near the boundary with San Pedro. ==Get in== See the main article for a more detailed discussion of urban transportation in the [[Monterrey#Get in|Monterrey]] area. ===By plane=== '''[https://www.oma.aero/en/passengers/monterrey/ Monterrey International Airport]''' ({{IATA|MTY}}) is a 40- to 50-minute taxi ride in the northern municipality of Apodaca. ===By bus=== Monterrey's Central Bus Station (Central de Autobuses) is about a 30-minute ride, in downtown Monterrey. [[Bus travel in Mexico|Long distance buses]] to [[Saltillo]] and [[San Luis Potosi]] usually travel through Santa Catarina on MEX 40 (Carretera Monterrey-Saltillo). Several of the long-distance bus lines operate small stations along this highway where buses stop to pick up and drop off passengers. If you plan to stay in Santa Catarina or San Pedro, you can use these stations to avoid having to go all the way into el Centro to the main bus station. Be aware that departures generally originate at the Central de Autobuses downtown and these terminals are the second stop. As such, buses may occasionally be completely full and unable to take on passengers at suburban stations (this is rare though). * {{go | name=Omnibus de Mexico Terminal Santa Catarina | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carr. Monterrey-Saltillo, Km 336 | lat=25.675387 | long=-100.441960 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8336 9393 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=Small but clean waiting room and ticket sales for Omnibus de Mexico. Also serves Noreste. }} * {{go | name=Futura Terminal Santa Catarina | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carr. Monterrey-Saltillo (MEX 40), s/n | lat=25.67711 | long=-100.4414 | directions=around km 335 | phone=+52 8183360153 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=Futura and Frontera buses stop here. }} ==Get around== There is no metro in this area, but plenty of taxis and buses. Ride-hailing apps like Uber work well here. See the [[Monterrey#Get around|main article]] for details. [[File:Transmetro bus in sanpedroNL 2025.jpg|thumb|TransMetro bus in San Pedro]] From other parts of Monterrey, you can take Metro to the '''Cuahtemoc''' station and from there, take the TransMetro bus to San Pedro Garza Garcia. The buses are modern, air conditioned and easily identified by the green and white paint job with a logo on the side that says "Muevo Leon". The TransMetro buses travel in a short loop through the main commercial areas. Various city bus routes also go to San Pedro Garza Garcia. From downtown Monterrey, you can use the 214, 106, 107, and 130 buses. Schedules and stops are on the Moovit app. ===By bike=== Much of San Pedro and Garza Garcia can be uncomfortably hazardous to travel by bike as the local municipalities have a poor track record of implementing bike-friendly infrastructure. Streets are very busy, speeds high, and drivers are quite aggressive. Each Sunday from 09:00 to 13:00 the city government closes Calzada del Valle to motor vehicles and cyclists are invited to take to the streets. This is a good opportunity for recreational cyclists to get out. The western suburbs can be outstanding places for mountain biking, particularly in Chipinque (part of the [[Cumbres de Monterrey National Park]]). Riders who think they are Tour de France material can ride the park road to the top of Chipinque Mesa, while off-road mountain bikers will find countless miles of wooded mountain trails to explore. ==See== {{mapframe|25.6802|-100.44336|zoom=12}} There are few tourist sites in San Pedro or Santa Catarina. Most of the city's tourist sites are in [[Monterrey/Centro#See|Centro]]. * {{see | name=Museo La Milarca | url=https://museolamilarca.mx/ | address=Eugenio Garza Lagüera 400, Zona Valle Oriente | lat=25.644673251570183 | long=-100.32736492144912 | directions=in Rufino Tamayo Park | phone= | hours=Tu-F 14:00 - 19:00, Sa-Su 10:00 - 20:00, closed M | price=M$100 | lastedit=2025-05-12 | content=Eclectic museum with a collection that began as an 18th century "Cabinet of Curiosities". The collection includes natural science objects, historical relics, and artistic objects including a large collection of coins from [[Colonial Mexico|Mexico's colonial era]]. See the head of a T-Rex, one of Cortez's swords, shrunken heads from the south Pacific and many other cool things you didn't know you needed to see. The building itself resembles a medieval chapel in spirit, but is obviously new. }} * {{see | name=Museo de los Antiguos Mexicanos | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Libertad 16, San Pedro Garza Garcia | lat=25.664786 | long=-100.401695 | directions=San Pedro main plaza | phone=+52 81 8400 4540 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00 - 19:00, closed M | price=Free | lastedit=2026-04-23 | content=Monterrey's first museum dedicated to pre-Hispanic [[Indigenous cultures of Mesoamerica]] is based on the personal collection of Mauricio Fernandez and exhibits from the now defunct Planetario Alfa. Fernandez spent decades visiting archaeological sites and studying once great civilizaations. It's a fairly large museum and very modern with well-designed displays, good lighting, and even some labels in English (though the Spanish-speaking visitor will get the most out of a visit). Major cultures each have their own gallery (''salon''). Most of the relics are artistic ceramic [[Sculpture|sculptures]], as that material survives centuries underground in inclement conditions. A visit will probably not take much more than an hour (unless you're intently curious about Mexican archaeology). Many of the exhibits are temporary seasonal displays, so if you come back in a year or so, you may get an entirely different perspective than your first impression. Occasional live classical music. }} ==Do== Monterrey is surrounded by mountains of the Sierra Madre Oriental range. A huge swath of mountainous terrain constitutes the [[Cumbres de Monterrey National Park]], which extends many miles south. In the Western suburbs, the most popular areas of the park are ''Chipinque'' (accessed via San Pedro) and ''La Huasteca'' (accessed via Santa Catarina). This is rugged backcountry, rich in opportunies for rock climbing, canyoneering, backpacking, caving, mountain biking, and hiking. Exploring the parks can be an absolute adrenaline rush, but be careful because much of this terrain is not suitable for newbies. Best to go with an experienced guide who will provide suitable equipment and instruction. [https://www.gaiaxtreme.com/en/ Gaia Extreme] is an established company with an excellent local reputation: they can provide guides and equipment for most of the local area. [[File:Montaña en el Parque la huasteca.jpg|thumb|La Huasteca]] * {{do | name=Cumbres of Monterrey National Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.48975285876112 | long=-100.53281725907775 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | wikidata=Q4847102 | content=Parque Nacional Cumbres de Monterrey is the northernmost of [[Mexico national parks]] and one of the largest, with more than 1,770 hectares (680 square miles) of rugged mountain terrain. It has become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park includes several of Monterrey's landmark mountains, along with sheer cliffs, rushing rivers, hidden caves, and even some lions, tigers, and bears. Okay, maybe not tigers, but they definitely have mountain lions and bears, and they do have coyotes, bobcats, and jaguars, along with snakes, birds, and lots of other things. The park can be accessed from various points in Monterrey, Santa Catarina, Guadalupe, and San Pedro Garza Garcia. }} * {{do | name=Chipinque Ecological Park | alt= | url=http://www.chipinque.org.mx | email= | address= | lat=25.60812 | long=-100.35576 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | content=Chipinque is one of the white-faced mountains towering over Monterrey, this one over the suburban municipalities of San Pedro and Garza Garcia. Drive up to the mesa where you can picnic while your kids enjoy the playground. Go hiking or mountain biking on the rugged trails that go up through the mountains to a fire-spotting station, or onwards toward the reservoir near the outlying town of Santiago. There is a rustic mountain lodge offering affordable family lodging and a restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine in a setting with unparalleled views of the city below. }} * {{do | name=La Huasteca climbing area | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= 20 minutes from the city center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6463156 | lastedit= | content=Parque La Huasteca is the first established climbing area in the city and is one of the most popular attractions in the Cumbres de Monterrey National Park. With nearly 300 bolted routes with grades from 5.4 to 5.14, it is the favorite place for weekend climbers. There are no entrance fees for most of the climbing areas. There is a Via Ferrata route that has led to deaths of inexperienced climbers. }} * {{do | name=Showcenter Complex | alt= | url=https://www.showcenter.com.mx/ | email= | address=Av. Batallón de San Patricio 1000, Zona San Agustín, San Pedro Garza García | lat=25.649204 | long=-100.335752 | directions=Plaza Fiesta San Agustin | phone=+52 811 223 1750 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-05-23 | content=Entertainment venue for concerts, broadway musicals, ballet, theatre and similar events. }} * {{do | name=Rufino Tamayo Park | alt=Parque Rufino Tamayo | url= | email= | address=Av. Rufino Tamayo 100, Corporativo Prodesa, San Pedro Garza García, | lat=25.645042 | long=-100.328340 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 06:00 - 22:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content=Rolling hills with hiking/biking trails, exercise stations, and shady patches. Popular place for early morning joggers and afternoon dog walkers. Parking available on Av. Eugenio Garza but it has a complicated payment system requiring obscure apps. }} * {{do | name=Parque El Capitan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av. Fuentes del Valle | lat=25.665257 | long=-100.361479 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 06:00 - 22:00 | price= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=Meandering urban park with jogging trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and dog parks. Popular for early morning workouts or yoga. }} ==Buy== [[File:MTY-PlazaFiestaSanAgustin2.jpg|thumb|Entrance to Plaza Fiesta San Agustin]] If you like conspicuous consumption, then you'll find more than your fill of name-brand shopping opportunities in San Pedro Garza Garcia. Myriad glitzy shops and large, modern department stores fill the malls. Designer brands can be found everywhere. What's lacking are any shops of genuine local color. Most of what you find are the same kind of "upscale" shopping that you'd find in any major city in the world: same stores, same brands. Louis Vuitton, Ermenegildo Zegna, Palacio de Hierro, Versace, Fendi... yawn! Every few weeks a new mall seems to pop up in San Pedro. Here are a few to start getting your credit cards overdrawn... [[File:MTY-Arboleda.jpg|thumb|Parque Arboleda]] * {{buy | name=Calzada 401 | alt=Plaza 401, Centro Comercial 401 | url= | email= | address=Av. Calzada 401, Del Valle | lat=25.65665 | long=-100.361393 | directions= | phone=+52 81 1366 5704 | tollfree= | hours=08:00 - 23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-08 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Paseo San Pedro Centro Comercial | alt= | url=https://paseosanpedro.com | email= | address=Esquina Jose Vasconcelos y Gomez Morin, Del Valle | lat=25.652748 | long=-100.357953 | directions= | phone=+52 81 2168 8800 | tollfree= | hours=11:00 - 23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-08 | content=Big shopping center anchored by Palacio de Hierro, Cinemex, Hotel NH. }} * {{buy | name=Metropolitan Center | alt= | url=https://metropolitancenter.mx | email= | address=Av. Lazaro Cardenas 2400, Valle Oriente | lat=25.650852 | long=-100.332795 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8363 9000 | tollfree= | hours=11:00 - 21:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-08 | content=Several nice restaurants, Epic Cinemas, virtual reality sports (baseball, golf), adjacent to Safi Metropolitan hotel. }} * {{buy | name=Fashion Drive | alt= | url=https://fashiondrive.mx | email= | address=Av. Diego Rivera 1000, San Agustin | lat=25.651432 | long=-100.334468 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00 - 21:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-08 | content=Connects to Plaza Fiesta San Agustin. Adjacent to Camino Real hotel. }} * {{buy | name=Plaza Fiesta San Agustin | alt= | url=https://plaza-fiesta.mx | email= | address=Av. Real San Agustin 222, San Agustin | lat=25.649227 | long=-100.336206 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9:00 - 17:00 | price= | wikidata=Q7203602 | lastedit=2022-11-08 | content=Multi-level mall, food court with some cheap fast-food, Soriana. Across the street from Quinta Real hotel. }} * {{buy | name=Avanta Gardens | alt= | url=https://sanpedro.avanta.mx | email= | address=Av. Jose Vasconcelos 755, Del Valle | lat=25.657747 | long=-100.388965 | directions= | phone=+52 81 1297 5132 | tollfree= | hours=08:00 - 22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-08 | content=Cineplex, spas, gym, restaurants. }} * {{buy | name=Punto Valle | alt= | url=https://puntovalle.com | email= | address=Rio Missouri 555, Del Valle | lat=25.659334 | long=-100.354471 | directions= | phone=+52 81 2090 0000 | tollfree= | hours=11:00 - 21:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-08 | content=Cinepolis, upscale restaurants, an Apple store. }} * {{buy | name=Parque Arboleda | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av. del Roble 660, Valle del Campestre | lat=25.649500 | long=-100.355812 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:00 - 00:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=Mixed use center built around a central park area with playgrounds and walking paths. Shops are in two buildings (Oriente and Poniente) and include an Apple Mac store, jewelry stores, furniture stores and many restaurants. The JW Marriott hotel is here. }} ==Eat== [[File:MTY-Mardelzur.jpg|thumb|Cocktails at Mar del Zur]] * {{eat | name=Bistro Bardot | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calzada del Valle 401 Third Floor, Col. Del Valle | lat=25.64929164464335 | long=-100.35671653219559 | directions= | phone=+52 (81)1366-5919 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-24 | content=Offers a delightful collage of seafood and red meat, heavily influenced by French cuisine, it stays in touch with Mexico through their slight spices. Escape the noisy city and enjoy some fine wine. }} * {{eat | name=Mar del Zur | alt= | url=https://mardelzur.com | email= | address=Av. Jose Vasconcelos 150 | lat=25.66147 | long=-100.39994 | directions= | phone=+52 81 2318 0980 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 13:00-01:00, Su 13:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content=Delicious fusion of Mexican and Thai cuisines which the chef describes as "Mexithai". Served in an elegant space with top-flight service. One of Monterrey's top restaurants, so reservations are well advised. }} * {{eat | name=Mon Paris | alt= | url=https://www.monparis.mx/gomezmorin | email= | address=Avenida Gomez Morin 911, Colonia Del Valle | lat=25.649533 | long=-100.357336 | directions=Plaza Las Palmas | phone=+52 81 20 91 50 30 | tollfree= | hours=08:30-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-08 | content=Local chain of French coffee shops, another location is near Fashion Drive in Metropolitan Center. Pleasant outdoor dining area, casual atmosphere and a more affordable option compared to the myriad nearby restaurants that cater to the expense account crowd. Crepes for breakfast (or anytime), panini sandwiches at lunch. }} * {{eat | name=Taquitos Mode | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rio Mississippi 107, Col. Del Valle | lat=25.659005 | long=-100.366178 | directions=in el Centrito | phone=+52 81 8335 3338 | tollfree= | hours=07:00-15:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-08 | content=Cheap eats, specializing in breakfast tacos. }} * {{eat | name=Señor Bigotes | alt= | url=https://señorbigotespizza.com/ | email= | address=C. Libertad 200, Casco Urbano | lat=25.664761 | long=-100.400905 | directions= | phone=+52 81 2317 5015 | tollfree= | hours=13:00-23:00 | price=pastas from M$165, medium pizzas from M$185 (Nov. 2022) | lastedit=2022-11-08 | content=In the mood for pizza? Señor Bigotes serves rustic style pizzas from an Italian wood fired oven. Pastas, salads, paninis also available. Delivery available. }} * {{eat | name=Pangea | alt= | url=https://restaurantepangea.com | email= | address=Av. de Roble 660, Valle de Campestre | lat=25.649636 | long=-100.355997 | directions=in Parque Arboleda | phone=+52 81 8114 6603 | tollfree= | hours=13:00 - 00:00 | price=Expensive: M$500 for fish of the day, M$1700 for the Wagyu New York strip | lastedit=2022-11-08 | content=Upscale dining, contemporary decor, modern Mexican cuisine meets steakhouse. Awarded a Michelin star. Reservations recommended. }} * {{eat | name=Cenacolo | alt= | url=https://cenacolo.com.mx | email= | address=Av. Batallon de San Patricio 109 | lat=25.648875 | long=-100.333592 | directions=at the roundabout, next to Metropolitan Center, across the street from Plaza Fiesta San Agustin | phone=+52 81 8363 5151 | tollfree= | hours=13:00 - 23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-21 | content=Elegant dining room with rustic Mediterranean feel. Italian food with homemade pastas, pizzas, and a full bar with creative house cocktails. }} * {{eat | name=Gallo71 | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jose Vanconcelos 71, San Pedro | lat=25.651962 | long=-100.373334 | directions=Look for the bright pink walls (there's not much of a sign, use GPS to get there) | phone=+52 81 8335 6200 | tollfree= | hours=12:30 - 00:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-21 | content=Traditional northern Mexico cuisine, specializing in grilled meats. The ribeye is a whopping 500g (about 18 ounces). The tostadas are grilled the way abuela used to make them. Good selection of artesanal tequilas and local craft beers. }} * {{eat | name=La Torrada | alt= | url=http://www.latorrada.mx/ | email= | address=Av Lázaro Cárdenas 2500, Valle Oriente, San Pedro | lat=25.650195 | long=-100.331703 | directions=Metropolitan Center | phone=+52 81 82627151 | tollfree= | hours=13:00 - 22:00 (open til 02:00 Friday-Saturday) | price= | lastedit=2022-11-25 | content=Upscale steakhouse that cooks over a wood fire. Expensive. }} * {{eat | name=Los Curricanes | alt= | url= | email= | address=Avenida Roble #660 Poniente Nivel 3 | lat=25.649649 | long=-100.355880 | directions=in Parque Arboleda | phone=+52 8123163048 | tollfree= | hours=13:00 - 23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=Casual seafood restaurant with full bar, outside terrace dining. }} * {{eat | name=Koli | alt= | url=https://www.koli.mx/ | email=contacto@koli.mx | address=Río Amazonas 225, Col. del Valle | lat=25.660048 | long=-100.362436 | directions= | phone=+52 81 9688 7333 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 13:00-16:00 19:00 - 00:00, closed Su M | price= | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content=Regional cuisine of northeast Mexico, modernized and taken up to the level of fine dining. Awarded a Michelin star. Very small intimate dining room, welcomes reservations but charges M$1800 per person for no-shows (so make sure your plans are firm before reserving). }} * {{eat | name=Mochorros | alt= | url=http://mochomos.mx/ | email= | address=Av Lázaro Cárdenas 2400, Zona Loma Larga Oriente | lat=25.650611 | long=-100.333289 | directions= | phone=+52 818 647 0160 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 12:00 - 01:00 | price=M$1000+ | lastedit=2024-09-18 | content=Part of a chain of elegant, upscale restaurants throughout Mexico. This location is a sleek, modern dining room serving grilled steaks, chicken, seafood and more. The sides are generous and creative. Service is top-notch. }} * {{eat | name=Animal Calzada | alt= | url=https://costeno.com/animal/ | email= | address=Calz. del Valle 333, Rooftop, Del Valle | lat=25.658224 | long=-100.362778 | directions= | phone=+52 818 287 6238 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 13:00 - 01:00 | price=M$1000 | lastedit=2024-10-17 | content=Lively nightclub that's an odd mix of family friendly and hip nightclub with loud music and extravagant jungle motif decor. Menu includes steaks, burgers, tacos and more. }} * {{eat | name=Cuerno Calzada | alt= | url=https://cuerno.mx/ | email= | address=Calz. del Valle 333, Del Valle | lat=25.657760 | long=-100.362092 | directions= | phone=+52 81 2530 0082 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 13:00 - 01:00, Su 08:00 - 00:00 | price=M$1000 | lastedit=2024-10-18 | content=Upscale restaurant featuring grilled, marinated meats and seafood. Full bar with innovative cocktails. }} * {{eat | name=Bestia Brasa | alt= | url=http://bestia.com.mx/ | email= | address=W-304, Av. del Roble 660, Valle del Campestre | lat=25.649690 | long=-100.356300 | directions= | phone=+52 812 723 0765 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 13:00 - 01:00 | price=M$700 | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Upscale Argentinian steakhouse with large cuts of grilled meats and a tempting array of appetizers and side dishes. Full bar with some creative house cocktails. }} * {{eat | name=Señor Tanaka | alt= | url=http://www.srtanaka.com/ | email= | address=Calz. Mauricio Fernández Garza 102, Del Valle | lat=25.656674 | long=-100.371482 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8335 2060 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 13ː00 - 01ː00, F-Sa 13ː00 - 02ː00 | price=M$1000 | lastedit=2026-02-15 | content=Elegant Japanese steakhouse with attentive service. Sushi and sashimi available in addition to perfectly grilled steaks. }} ==Drink== The '''Centrito''' area is centered around the intersection of Av. Rio Mississippi and Av. Rio Orinoco, it is a popular and safe option for partying and clubbing. A trendy hot spot for the younger crowd. ===Centrito=== * {{drink | name=Sr. Mostacho | alt= | url= | email= | address=Río Orinoco 171, Col. del Valle | lat=25.660406 | long=-100.366096 | directions= | phone=+52 81 837 84925 | tollfree= | hours=13:00-01:00 (02:00 Friday and Saturday) | price= | lastedit=2022-11-21 | content=Lively bar with a young crowd. }} * {{drink | name=Maverick | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rio Mississippi 103 | lat=25.659275 | long=-100.367402 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=18:00 - 01:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-21 | content=Cocktails and different music styles each night are the success formula here: jazz (Wednesday), blues, DJs playing 80s hits, and if that's not enough, there's Happy hour 7-9pm each day. }} * {{drink | name=Mapache | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rio Mississippi 120 | lat=25.658845 | long=-100.366929 | directions= | phone=+52 81 25588858 | tollfree= | hours=17:00 - 01:00 (til 02:00 Friday and Saturday) | price= | lastedit=2022-11-25 | content=Comfortable, low-key bar with good selection of beers and mezcals. Roof top terrace. }} * {{drink | name=Major Tom | alt= | url= | email= | address=Río Orinoco 175, Del Valle | lat=25.659789 | long=-100.365133 | directions= | phone=+52 81 2557 5576 | tollfree= | hours=08:00 - 01:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-30 | content=Popular bar with cheap drink prices, featuring live rock bands. }} * {{drink | name=Rio Mississippi 105-B | alt= | url=https://www.rm105b.com | email= | address=Rio Mississippi 105-B, Del Valle | lat=25.659133 | long=-100.366870 | directions= | phone=+52 81 816 14262 | tollfree= | hours=Th-Su 19:00 - 02:00, closed M-W | price= | lastedit=2022-11-30 | content=Enjoyable atmosphere with a specialization in mezcal cocktails. Smoky atmosphere is a turn-off. }} * {{drink | name=Principia Monterrey Taproom | alt=Cerveceria Principia | url=https://www.cerveceriaprincipia.com/ | email= | address=Rio Missouri 500, Del Valle | lat=25.661333 | long=-100.355735 | directions= | phone=+52 81 3494 0421 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 12:00 - 02:00, Su 15:00 - 22:30, M 17:00 - 00:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-07-30 | content=Contemporary craft brewery serving a variety of different styles with several flavored beers (like peanut butter s'mores stout). Brick oven pizzas. }} ===Other parts of San Pedro=== * {{drink | name=Havana | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calzada San Pedro 107 | lat=25.673600 | long=-100.367087 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Th-Sa 21:00 - 02:00| price= | lastedit=2022-11-21 | content=High-end club. }} * {{drink | name=Pepper | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av. Manuel Gómez Morín 911, Del Valle, San Pedro Garza García | lat=25.649426 | long=-100.359318 | directions=Plaza las Palmas, Comercial Gomez Morin | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 18:00 - 01:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-21 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Nirvana Rock Joint| alt= | url=http://www.nirvana.com.mx/ | email= | address=Av. Batallon de San Patricio 1000 | lat=25.648847743640378 | long=-100.33593870574931 | directions=outside Plaza Fiesta San Agustin | phone=+52 81 8368 4630 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-21 | content=Features 1980s, 90s and some recent music. Good selection of beer, liquor, and appetizers. Free breathalyzer test -- ask the bouncer for a safe taxi if you can't drive. Odd location for a club, in the Plaza Fiesta San Agustin mall, next to Sears. }} * {{drink | name=Sierra Madre Brewing Company | alt= | url=http://www.smbc.com.mx/ | email= | address=Av. José Vasconcelos 564 Ote, Valle del Campestre, Garza Garcia | lat=25.653176 | long=-100.356116 | directions= | phone=+52 818 378 6001 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 12:00 - 00:00 | price=M$150 | lastedit=2024-12-20 | content=Modern California-style brewpub with lots of brick, brass, and potted plants. Good, if predictable range of beers including a golden ale, brown ale, IPA and others. Brick oven pizza and burgers. SMBC now has several locations around the Monterrey metro area, but this location was the original. }} ==Sleep== If room rates seem high in San Pedro Garza Garcia, look for hotels in San Jeronimo. It's on the other side of Loma Larga (through the tunnel) and will require a taxi or Uber to get anywhere, but the hotels are very modern and affordably priced. ===San Pedro Garza Garcia=== Most hotels in San Pedro are new and upscale. Decent cheap lodging is rare and is better found in [[Monterrey/Centro#Sleep|el Centro]] (with hostels in Barrio Antiguo). The Ibis is the most reliably inexpensive option in San Pedro. * {{sleep | name=Antaris Valle | alt=Antarisuites | url=http://www.antarisuitevallehotelmonterrey.com/ | email= | address=Rio Danubio 400 Ote | lat=25.653303 | long=-100.360716 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8174-0000 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=Modest hotel with flashy 1990s contemporary decor. Spacious, clean rooms, well equipped. Quiet side street location. 10-15 minutes to downtown. }} * {{sleep | name=Ibis Monterrey Valle | alt= | url=http://www.accorhotels.com | email= | address=Av. Lazaro Cardenas 3000 | lat=25.647841 | long=-100.327751 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8133-5050 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=Modern economical hotel, clean rooms at rates of about M$1100 (Nov 2022). An excellent choice for the budget traveler. }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel Monterrey Valle | alt= | url=http://www.accorhotels.com | email= | address=Av. Lazaro Cardenas 3000 | lat=25.647542 | long=-100.328952 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8133-8133 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=Contemporary hotel on busy thoroughfare. Nice swimming pool, large lobby bar restaurant, loud decor, platform beds, free valet parking. }} * {{sleep | name=MS Milenium Monterrey, Curio Collection by Hilton | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/mtymmqq-ms-milenium-monterrey/ | email= | address=Jose Vasconcelos 300 Ote | lat=25.653933 | long=-100.338779 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8368-6000 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=First-class hotel in busy Garza-Garcia area. Nice swimming pool. Sunday brunch. }} * {{sleep | name=NH Hotel Monterrey San Pedro | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av. José Vasconcelos 402 | lat=25.650791 | long=-100.358256 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8173 1800 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-30 | content=Decent hotel adjacent to Palacio de Hierro. Somewhat dated as newer, more luxurious hotels are now available, but affordable rates make this an attractive option for many travelers. }} * {{sleep | name=Safi Metropolitan | alt= | url=https://safihotel.com/en/safi-monterrey-metropolitan/ | email= | address=Av. Lazaro Cardenas 2400, Valle Oriente | lat=25.650784 | long=-100.332648 | directions= | phone=+52 81 2519 0000 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-08 | content=Glitzy upscale high-rise hotel connected to the Metropolitan Mall in the heart of San Pedro's shopping district. Easy walk to stores and restaurants. If you're looking for a restaurant with a view, there is an upscale restaurant on the 30th floor and a more casual restaurant on the 15th floor. }} * {{sleep | name=Habita | alt= | url=http://www.hotelhabitamty.com/ | email= | address=Av. Vasconcelos 150 Ote | lat=25.651699 | long=-100.367582 | directions=at O2 Plaza | phone=+52 81 83355900 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-25 | content=Contemporary comfort in a mid-size boutique hotel. Excellent restaurants in the adjacent O2 Plaza. Expensive. }} * {{sleep | name=Camino Real Monterrey | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av. Diego Rivera 2492, Col. Valle Oriente | lat=25.650467 | long=-100.334548 | directions=Fashion Drive | phone=+52 8181335400 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=One of 2 Camino Real hotels in almost exactly the same location. Confusing? You betcha! Adjacent to Fashion Drive shopping area. }} * {{sleep | name=Quinta Real Monterrey | alt= | url=http://www.quintareal.com | email= | address=Diego Rivera 500 | lat=25.649616 | long=-100.333474 | directions= | phone=+52 81 8368-1000 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=For years, the most luxurious hotel in Monterrey, but now one of many first-class hotels in the San Pedro area. Gourmet dining rooms, classic architecture, concierge, valet parking, courtyard swimming pool. Location next to Plaza Fiesta San Agustin shopping mall. 5-10 minutes to downtown. }} * {{sleep | name=Autentico Monterrey | alt= | url=http://hotelesautentico.com | email= | address=Av. Manuel Gómez Morín 285, Col Valle del Campestre | lat=25.650826 | long=-100.358045 | directions=across street from Palacio del Hierro | phone=+52 8125253930 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M1800 | lastedit=2025-05-18 | content=Luxury boutique hotel near shopping. }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av. del Roble 670, Valle del Campestre | lat=25.650210 | long=-100.354994 | directions=in Parque Arboleda | phone=+52 81 8850 6700 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-30 | content=New hotel with first class service, large comfortable rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Live Aqua | alt= | url=https://www.liveaqua.com/hoteles-y-resorts/live-aqua-urban-resort-monterrey | email= | address=Av Lázaro Cárdenas 2424, Zona Loma Larga Oriente, San Pedro Garza García | lat=25.653548 | long=-100.332502 | directions= | phone=+52 811 646 7000 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$6000 | lastedit=2024-05-23 | content=The top floors of the Fiesta Americana are operated as a separate hotel, the Live Aqua. Somewhat small rooms are well furnished with luxury toiletries and a Nespresso machine. }} * {{sleep | name=Grand Fiesta Americana Monterrey Valle | alt= | url=https://www.grandfiestamericana.com/hoteles-y-resorts/grand-fiesta-americana-monterrey-valle | email= | address=Av. Lázaro Cárdenas 2424. Col. Residencial San Agustín, San Pedro Garza García | lat=25.652049 | long=-100.331745 | directions= | phone=+52 44 3310 8137 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$3000 | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Large, modern luxury hotel in a prominent glass tower on busy Lazaro Cardenas. Rooms are spacious, quiet, clean and very well appointed. Hotel has a swimming pool and offers spa services. Extensive breakfast buffet available with made-to-order omelettes. }} ===Santa Catarina=== * {{sleep | name=City Express Monterrey Santa Catarina | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carr. Monterrey-Saltillo 1135 | lat=25.688577 | long=-100.495385 | directions= | phone=+52 5552498080 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=13:00 | price=M$1100 | lastedit=2022-11-25 | content=Modest chain hotel with inexpensive rates. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Hiǃ | alt= | url=http://www.hoteleshi.com/monterrey | email= | address=Blvd Gustavo Díaz Ordaz 338, Protexa Industrial | lat=25.675153 | long=-100.435259 | directions= | phone=+52 81 85262020 | tollfree= | checkin=15ː00 | checkout=12ː00 | price=M$800 | lastedit=2023-02-06 | content=The rooms are small, but so are the prices. Clean, modern place right on Carr. Monterrey-Saltillo. }} * {{sleep | name=Las Torres de el Legado | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av las Huertas 951 Ote, Rincón de las Huertas, Santa Catarina | lat=25.682472 | long=-100.458228 | directions= | phone=+52 815 000 5700 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-05-23 | content=Upscale, modern hotel with spacious well-equipped rooms, outdoor swimming pool. }} ==Connect== The area is very well connected with broadband internet in all major hotels and restaurant (though some will charge for WiFi). Cell service is excellent with 5G service everywhere in this part of town. See the main article for [[Monterrey#Connect|Monterrey]]. ==Go next== [[File:MTY-GrutasGarcia.jpg|thumb|Grutas Garcia]] A few miles northwest of Santa Catarina, on Nuevo Leon highway 65, is the municipality of '''Garcia'''. There are several attractions in Garcia that make it a popular day trip or weekend destination, particularly for families. * {{listing | name=Grutas de García | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.849333 | long=-100.523889 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5612364 | lastedit=2023-03-30 | content=Near the municipality of Garcia is a large show cave in the Sierra del Fraile, operated by the state of Nuevo Leon. The cave entrance is reached by a cable car (teleferico) or by steep 2-km trail. Myriad formations in which stagmites and stalactites form oddly recognizable shapes, such as the head of a burro, a hand with an outstreched finger, and more. }} * {{marker|type=listing|name=[https://www.xenpal.com.mx/ Parque Ecologico Xenpal]|lat=25.83384|long=-100.57617}}, near the Garcia caves in the municipality of Garcia is a drive-through safari wildlife park. You can ride through in your own car, or a truck-like tram will take you through. Camel rides, zip lines, galapagos turtles, monkeys, giraffes, an aviary and lots more. Prices start at M$110 for a kids admission to M$180 for adults, plus safari rides. * {{marker|type=listing|name=[https://losfaisanes.com.mx/ Los Faisanes]|lat=25.86566|long=-100.53012}}, {{Phone|+52 8182831771}}, on the road to Garcia caves is this popular family recreation area. Quiet and peaceful. Cabins are available for overnight stays. Swimming pools with water slides, an ecological zoo with lions, tigers, monkeys, zebras, and even some lemurs (who like to move it, move it). Picnic areas with grills. {{IsPartOf|Monterrey}} {{usablecity}} {{geo|25.664166666667|-100.40166666667}} rszwonbq2nc2jzx66zn22d7t3imqrqe 0 32015 5288947 5284308 2026-06-06T23:22:29Z ~2026-31523-58 2413499 /* Seattle Center */ Updated listing for Space Needle - new information and price change 5288947 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wikivoyage page banner virginia V.jpg|pgname=Queen Anne & South Lake Union|caption=The Virgina V moored on Lake Union}} Northwest of [[Seattle/Downtown|Downtown Seattle]], '''Queen Anne''' is a hilly residential neighborhood with marvelous views of the city's skyline. '''Magnolia''', a wealthy residential neighborhood, sits on a peninsula west of Queen Anne, separated from Queen Anne by '''Interbay''', an unexpected commercial and industrial strip in the valley between the two hilly neighborhoods. [[Image:Space Needle and International Fountain.JPG|thumb|upright=0.8|Space Needle and International Fountain]] '''[https://www.seattlecenter.com/ Seattle Center]''', at the southern base of Queen Anne Hill, was built to host the 1962 World's Fair. Today, Seattle Center is a park-like facility surrounded by many of [[Seattle]]'s finest event venues and museums, as well as two iconic relics from the World's Fair: the Monorail and the Space Needle. The restaurants and bars of '''Uptown''', also called ''Lower Queen Anne'', surround Seattle Center. Directly north of Downtown is '''South Lake Union''', a former industrial neighborhood until Amazon's headquarters and a range of biotech organizations kicked off a wave of gentrification, quickly filling out Seattle's skyline with mid-rise office and apartment towers. ==Get in== {{mapframe|47.639|-122.370|zoom=12|height=300|width=400}} {{mapmask|47.6429,-122.3347|47.6529,-122.3226|47.6367,-122.3230|47.6316,-122.3249|47.6280,-122.3283|47.6185,-122.3285|47.6185,-122.3572|47.619,-122.382|47.642,-122.431|47.664,-122.440|47.672,-122.421|47.6716,-122.4074|47.6670,-122.4054|47.6589,-122.3728|47.6523,-122.3601|47.6463,-122.3462}} {{mapshapes|Q2778618}} <!-- Link light rail --> Seattle Center and South Lake Union lie within easy walking or bicycling distance of [[Seattle/Downtown|Downtown]]. Climbing up Queen Anne Hill, on the other hand, is more of a workout. Aurora Avenue (SR-99) is a highway that emerges from a tunnel north of Seattle Center and can only be crossed in a few spots. Queen Anne Avenue is the dividing line between the "North" and the "West" roads. So don't be surprised if you cross 1st Avenue N, and then shortly thereafter find yourself crossing 1st Avenue W without having changed direction! ===By car=== Queen Anne Hill can be difficult to navigate due to its geography, especially by car. There are two simple ways to get to the center of the neighborhood: * via Queen Anne Avenue from the south (though take note: Queen Anne Avenue traffic is south-only when south of Roy Street). * by 3rd Avenue W from the north side, near Seattle Pacific University. * Approaching by Dexter Avenue, Gilman Avenue, W Dravus Street or any of the numerous side streets should not be attempted unless you have time to kill. Seattle Center and South Lake Union are best reached by Denny Way along the south end, and Mercer St along the north. Mercer Street is the most convenient from I-5, although it's amongst the most traffic-congested streets in the city. Parking is plentiful, albeit often expensive. Dexter, Westlake, Fairview, and Eastlake Avenues pass through South Lake Union. To access Magnolia, from the north take Emerson Street Bridge over 15th Avenue towards the Fisherman's Terminal. From the south, take 15th Avenue W (Elliott), exiting at the Magnolia Bridge. ===By public transit=== * {{listing | name=King County Metro | url=https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/metro | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=Queen Anne is served mainly by frequent and all-day bus routes 1, 2, 4, 8, 13 and the RapidRide D line, all of which make stops close to the Seattle Center. Upper Queen Anne Hill (up the hill) is served only by 1, 2, 4 and 13. South Lake Union is served by frequent bus route 62 on Dexter Avenue, while Fairview Avenue is served by frequent bus route 70. Magnolia is served by the all-day bus routes 24 and 33, with 33 serving Discovery Park from Downtown Seattle. Route 31 connects Magnolia to University District through Wallingford, Fremont and Seattle Pacific University without going through Downtown. See the King County Metro website for schedules and maps. }} * {{go | name=Seattle Center Monorail | alt= | url=https://www.seattlemonorail.com/ | email= | address=Northern terminus at Experience Music Center (EMP) | lat=47.62125 | long=-122.34973 | directions=Seattle Center | phone=+1 206-905-2620 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 7:30AM-9PM, F 7:30AM-11PM, Sa 8:30AM-11PM, Su 8:30AM-9PM | price=One-way $4 adults, $2 seniors/youth/military, ORCA cards accepted, no paper transfers accepted | wikipedia=Seattle Center Monorail | image=Monorail (Seattle, Washington)-7.jpg | wikidata=Q2618100 | lastedit=2026-01-03 | content=An attraction in itself, the historic monorail makes a direct connection between Westlake Center in Downtown and Seattle Center. }} * {{go | name=South Lake Union Streetcar | alt= | url=https://www.seattle.gov/transportation/getting-around/transit/streetcar/south-lake-union-line | email= | address=Northern terminus on Fairview & Campus Dr | lat=47.6276 | long=-122.3325 | directions=next to Fred Hutchison Cancer Research Center | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 6AM-9PM, F Sa 6AM-11PM, Su 10AM-7PM, all at 15 minute intervals | price=$2.25 adults, $1 seniors, $1.50 youth | wikipedia=South Lake Union Streetcar | wikidata=Q12069683 | lastedit=2023-06-17 | content=This streetcar runs from Westlake Center in Downtown to the southeastern shore of Lake Union. The streetcar was announced as the "South Lake Union Trolley" until the developer realized the unfortunate acronym, which is still used by many residents. }} ==See== * {{see | name=Discovery Park | alt= | url=https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/discovery-park | email= | address=3801 W Government Way | lat=47.660530 | long=-122.415720 | directions= | phone=+1 206-684-4075 | tollfree= | hours=4ː30AM-11PM | price= | wikipedia=Discovery Park (Seattle) | wikidata=Q3030228 | lastedit=2026-01-09 | content=The largest park in the city can be thought of as Seattle's unofficial central park given its huge, somewhat secluded nature, with a number of trails that meander through the green forests down to the lighthouse at the beach. Discovery Park used to be an army installation called Fort Lawton, and several of the fort's buildings remain. The park features the highest point in the city and wildlife you don't typically find in a large city. A visitors' center with information about the wildlife living in the park and the best trails to hike are in the center of the park. The visitor center is closed until summer 2027. }} [[File:Kerry Park.jpg|thumb|A postcard-perfect view of Seattle, as seen from Kerry Park]] * {{see | name=Kerry Park | alt= | url=https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/kerry-park | email= | address=211 W Highland Dr | lat=47.629600 | long=-122.359400 | directions= | phone=+1 206-684-4075 | tollfree= | hours=6AM-10PM | price= | wikipedia=Kerry Park (Seattle) | image=Seattle 4.jpg | wikidata=Q6394618 | lastedit=2026-01-09 | content=A photographer's paradise, this is perhaps the most obvious spectacle in Queen Anne. This park affords the quintessential view of Downtown Seattle with the Space Needle in the foreground, and (depending on the weather) Mount Rainier and the Cascades, as well as across the Puget Sound to Bainbridge Island. }} * {{see | name=Bhy Kracke Park | alt= | url=https://www.seattle.gov/parks/parks/bhy-kracke-park | email= | address=1215 5th Ave N | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130286718 | lastedit=2026-04-21 | content=Pronounced "By Crackie". You can get a view comparable to that from the Space Needle for free. }} * {{see | name=Fishermen's Terminal | alt= | url=https://www.portseattle.org/maritime/fishermen-terminal | email= | address= | lat=47.65578 | long=-122.38063 | directions=just southwest of the Ballard Bridge | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Fishermen's Terminal | wikidata=Q5454928 | content=Carefully wander the docks (avoiding stepping on ropes or nets) and look at the boats. Many of them sell fresh crab or fish right off of the boat in season. Much of the Alaska crab fishing fleet moors here (or elsewhere in Lake Union) during the off-season, including vessels featured in the long-running ''Deadliest Catch'' television series. Visit the '''[https://www.seattlefishermensmemorial.org/ Fishermen's Memorial]''' dedicated to all of those who have lost their lives at sea while engaged in commercial fishing. }} ===Seattle Center=== [[Image:Experience Music Project.JPG|thumb|upright=0.8|Museum of Pop Culture]] The 1962 World's Fair left Seattle with Seattle Center, the region's largest cluster of civic spaces. Pedestrian avenues, lined with small parks and fountains, connect a collection of museums, fine arts venues, and monumental architecture. * {{see | name=Space Needle | alt= | url=https://www.spaceneedle.com/ | email=guestservice@spaceneedle.com | address=400 Broad St | lat=47.6204 | long=-122.3491 | directions=Seattle monorail is very close to the Needle and multiple buses have a stop nearby | phone=+1 206-905-2100 | tollfree= | hours=830am-11:30pm (Fri,Sat) 830am-1030pm (Sunday) 9am-1030pm (Mon-Thurs) | price=standard admission is 55$ (discounts of up to 20$ per ticket if reservation made at lease 1 day in advance) | wikipedia=Space Needle | image=Space needle Seattle1.jpg | wikidata=Q5317 | lastedit=2019-02-26 | content=A symbol of Seattle, built for the 1962 World's Fair and still a wildly popular attraction. The view is spectacular on a clear day when the sun sets, when Downtown Seattle contrasts beautifully with the ocean to the west and the snow-capped mountains in every other direction. There are floor-to-ceiling windows on both levels, a rotating glass floor ("The Loupe") on the lower level that completes one revolution every 45 minutes, and open-air glass walls where you can lean backwards and take a selfie. The revolving Sky City restaurant has been closed due to renovations, but the wine bar is still open. }} * {{see | name=Pacific Science Center | alt= | url=https://www.pacificsciencecenter.org/ | email=gs@pacsci.org | address=200 Sue Bird Ct N | lat=47.619200 | long=-122.351000 | directions= | phone=+1 206-443-2844 | tollfree= | fax=+1 206-443-3631 | hours=W-Su 10AM–5PM | price=Adults from̩ $22.95-̩$28.20 depending on day. Planetarium and daytime laser shows included, but requires timed tickets | wikipedia=Pacific Science Center | image=Pacific Science Center at night 04.jpg | wikidata=Q3848341 | lastedit=2026-01-09 | content=An interactive science museum featuring permanent and temporary exhibits, a butterfly atrium, IMAX theater, planetarium, and laser shows. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Pop Culture | alt=MoPOP | url=https://www.mopop.org/ | email=info@mopop.org | address=325 5th Ave N | lat=47.6215 | long=-122.3486 | directions= | phone=+1 206-770-2700 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (Memorial Day-Labor Day) 10AM-7PM daily; rest of year 10AM-5PM daily | price=$28 adults, $25 seniors/students, $22 military, $19 youth, children 4 and under free. $2 discount if purchased online. Additional $8 for special exhibit. Outdoor playground free | wikipedia=Museum of Pop Culture | image=Aerial view of EMPSFM.jpg | wikidata=Q1384356 | lastedit=2019-01-11 | content=An excellent pop culture museum housed inside a visually striking building designed by Frank Gehry to "evoke the rock 'n' roll experience", with exhibits on all manner of popular culture: film, television, music, video games, fashion, etc. There's a particular focus on science fiction and Seattle musicians, with a sci-fi hall of fame and exhibits dedicated to Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana. Top-notch special exhibits have included the likes of David Bowie, ''Star Trek'', the Marvel comic and movie universe, and ''Minecraft''. There are many interactive exhibits, but don't expect to get a turn without a long wait. Outside, the large playground is a big hit with kids. }} * {{see | name=Seattle Children's Museum | alt= | url=https://seattlechildrensmuseum.org/ | email= | address=200 2nd Ave N | lat=47.6214 | long=-122.351 | directions= | phone=+1 206-441-1768 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10AM-5PM, Sa Su 10AM-6PM | price=General exhibits: $7.50, $6.50 seniors, children under 1 free; no adults admitted without a child | wikipedia=Seattle Children's Museum | image=Children’s Museum (2891578446).jpg | wikidata=Q7442070 |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=An independent non-profit museum which hosts popular traveling exhibits and features permanent exhibits and programs geared towards children. }} * {{see | name=Chihuly Garden and Glass | alt= | url=https://www.chihulygardenandglass.com/ | email=info@chihulygardenandglass.com | address=305 Harrison St | lat=47.6206 | long=-122.35 | directions= | phone=+1 407 956-3527 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 10AM–10PM, F-Su 10AM-11PM; last ticket sold one hour prior to closing; combined tickets with Space Needle available | price=$19 adults, $17 seniors, $12 children, children 3 and under free | wikipedia=Chihuly Garden and Glass | image=| wikidata=Q5097315 |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=This museum provides a look at the inspiration and influences that inform the career of artist Dale Chihuly. The on-site exhibition hall contains eight galleries and three drawing walls, offering visitors a comprehensive look at Chihuly’s significant series of work. The centerpiece of the museum is a glasshouse with a suspended 1,400-piece, 100-foot-long sculpture. Also on the grounds is a lush garden, which serves as a backdrop for four monumental sculptures and other installations. }} ===South Lake Union=== * {{see | name=Lake Union Park | alt= | url=https://www.seattle.gov/parks/find/parks/lake-union-park | email= | address=860 Terry Ave N | lat=47.626380 | long=-122.336640 | directions=on the Lake Union Waterfront | phone=+1 206-684-4075 | tollfree= | hours=4AM-11ː30PM | price= | wikipedia=Lake Union Park | image=Aerial South Lake Union Park May 2012.JPG | wikidata=Q6478207 | lastedit=2026-01-09 | content=Home to the Center for Wooden Boats and the Museum of History and Industry. Spray park open Memorial Day to Labor Day. }} ** {{see | name=The Center for Wooden Boats | alt= | url=https://www.cwb.org/ | email= | address=1010 Valley St | lat=47.62711 | long=-122.33587 | directions= | phone=+1 206-382-2628 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Opens daily at 10AM except Mondays November through mid-April; closing hours vary by season. Free boat sails Sunday 10AM (signup), 11AM-3PM (cruise) | price=Free | wikipedia=Center for Wooden Boats | image=Seattle — The Center for Wooden Boats, IMG04.jpg | wikidata=Q5059922 |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=An intriguing museum where you can learn about maritime culture and experience sailing traditional wooden boats. The center's programs allow you to get a hands-on feel, putting in control of crafting and sailing your own wooden craft. On Sundays, rain or shine, you can get a free boat ride on a classic wooden boat around the lake for an hour. At times artist-in-residence Saaduuts leads programs. }} ** {{see | name=Museum of History and Industry | alt=MOHAI | url=https://mohai.org/ | email= | address=860 Terry Ave. N | lat=47.6276 | long=-122.337 | directions= | phone=+1 206-324-1126 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM–5PM, Thursdays until 8PM | price=$25 adults, $20 seniors, children under 14 free; free first Thursday of the month | wikipedia=Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) | image=MOHAI Armory building at Lake Union Park west side.jpg | wikidata=Q6940877 |lastedit=2026-04-21| content=The museum focuses on the history of Seattle and the greater Puget Sound region, with exhibitions focusing on the maritime history of the city and the rise of the region's technology industry, as well as a set of changing exhibits. }} ** {{see | name=Northwest Seaport/Maritime Heritage Center | alt= | url=https://www.nwseaport.org/ | email= | address=1002 Valley St | lat=47.62808 | long=-122.33665 | directions=in Lake Union Park | phone=+1 206-447-9800 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Northwest Seaport | wikidata=Q7060198 |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=Home to a number of historic ships, including a schooner, a tugboat, a fireboat, a lightship, a steamer, and several others. }} * {{see | name=South Lake Union Discovery Center | url=https://www.discoverslu.com/ | email= | address=101 Westlake Ave N | lat=47.61883 | long=-122.33879 | directions= | phone=+1 206-342-5900 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-6PM daily | price= |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=An introduction to the neighborhood, with displays explaining the history of South Lake Union. There is also a model of the whole neighborhood in the building. }} * '''Amazon.com''' built their headquarters in South Lake Union. The expansive construction of Amazon office towers and apartments and shops, as well as the visually-striking glass '''Spheres''', has made SLU practically synonymous with Amazon. ** {{see | name=Amazon HQ tour | url=https://www.seattlespheres.com/visit-hq | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W 10AM, 2PM | price= | content=90-minute tour of Amazon's urban campus including Doppler, Day 1, and the Spheres. There is also a '''self-guided audio tour'''; you can even get a free pair of headphones to keep from the receptionists at Day 1 (2121 7th Ave; M-F 7AM-6PM). }} ** {{see | name=Seattle Spheres | url=https://www.seattlespheres.com/the-spheres-weekend-public-visits | email= | address=2117 7th Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=1st and 3rd Sa of the month 10AM-6PM | price=Free; reservations required, available 30 days in advance | wikidata=Q48596158 | content=A building made of three glass domes filled with lush plants. Take an unguided stroll through the tropical heart of the Spheres. }} *** {{see | name=Understory | alt= | url=https://www.seattlespheres.com/visit-understory | email=visitspheres@amazon.com | address=2101 7th Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10AM-6PM | price=Free | lastedit=2026-01-04 | content=Visitor center about Amazon and the Spheres' flora and design. It's in the bottom floor of the Spheres and doesn't get you access to the upper floors where the plants live, but it's available 5 days a week unlike public access to the building. }} ** {{see | name=Public Art at Amazon Headquarters | url= | email= | address=426 Terry Ave N | lat=47.62262 | long=-122.33673 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=While the Amazon buildings are not open to the public, there are several signed outdoor art pieces around the complex and other nearby buildings, and you can hob-nob with "blue badges" at local restaurants and coffee shops. Seattle Architecture Foundation also leads guided walking tours. }} ==Do== ===Events=== '''Seattle Center''' hosts events almost every weekend of the year. These are some of the larger ones: * {{do | name=Northwest Folklife Festival | alt= | url=https://nwfolklife.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Memorial Day weekend (end of May) | price=free ($10 donation suggested) | wikipedia=Northwest Folklife | image=Seattle Center Pavilion during Folklife.jpg | wikidata=Q375649 |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=A more low-key and global version of Bumbershoot. }} * {{do | name=Bite of Seattle | alt= | url=https://biteofseattle.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Mid-late July | price= | wikipedia=Bite of Seattle | wikidata=Q4918822 |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=Part of the Seafair festivities. }} * {{do | name=Bumbershoot | url=https://bumbershoot.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Labor Day weekend (early Sep) | price= |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=A music and arts festival featuring dozens of local and world-class musical acts. }} * {{do | name=Seattle Center WinterFest | alt= | url=https://www.seattlecenter.com/winterfest/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Late Nov to late Dec or early Jan | price= | lastedit=2025-01-21 | content=Various activities/events during the holidays such as the WinterFest Ice rink (skate rental available for fee), Winter Train & Village, ice sculpting displays. }} * {{do | name=Festál Cultural Center | alt= | url=https://seattlecenter.com/events/featured-events/festal | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Year-round except Dec | price= | content=Celebrate the world with festivals from about 25 countries represented, one country nearly every 2 weeks. }} ===Entertainment=== * {{do | name=Climate Pledge Arena | alt= | url=https://climatepledgearena.com/ | email= | address=334 1st Ave N | lat=47.622 | long=-122.354 | directions= | phone=+1 206-460-7825 (ticketing) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | wikipedia=Climate Pledge Arena | image=Climate pledge arena.jpg | wikidata=Q977529 | content=The region's largest sports arena is home to the NHL's Seattle Kraken, the WNBA's Seattle Storm, and college men's basketball games of the Seattle Redhawks (Seattle University), as well as a major concert venue. It was built for the 1962 World's Fair. The arena's interior was completely gutted and rebuilt for the Kraken, but its original exterior remains intact, maintaining its historic listing. Tours not available; if you want to see the inside, you have to attend an event. }} * {{do | name=Seattle Chamber Music Society | alt= | url=https://www.seattlechambermusic.org/ | email= | address=10 Harrison St | lat=47.6222 | long=-122.3565 | directions= | phone=+1 206-283-8710 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Seattle Chamber Music Society | wikidata=Q7442066 | lastedit=2018-03-02 | content= }} * {{do | name=McCaw Hall | alt= | url=https://www.mccawhall.com/ | email= | address=321 Mercer St | lat=47.62397 | long=-122.35039 | directions=NE corner of Seattle Center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q11705574 | content=Home of the [https://www.seattleopera.org/ Seattle Opera] and the [http://www.pnb.org/ Pacific Northwest Ballet], each considered among the best in the United States. }} * {{do | name=Seattle Repertory Theatre | alt= | url=https://www.seattlerep.org/ | email= | address=155 Mercer St | lat=47.62459 | long=-122.3533 | directions= | phone=+1 206-443-2222 (call), +1 206-565-2996 (text) | tollfree= | hours=Box officeː M-F noon-5PM, by phone noon-6PM | price= | wikidata=Q7442163 | lastedit=2025-02-15 | content=The largest nonprofit resident theatre in the Pacific Northwest. }} ===Film=== * {{do | name=Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF)| alt= | url=https://www.siff.net/ | email=info@siff.net | address=[https://www.siff.net/cinema/cinema-venues SIFF Cinemas] and other venues | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 206-464-5830 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=May | price= | wikidata=Q2399132 | content=One of the largest film festivals in North America. Screenings are at the [[w:SIFF Cinema Uptown]], [https://www.siff.net/cinema/cinema-venues/siff-film-center SIFF Film Center], and at venues in adjacent districts. }} * {{do | name=SIFF Cinema Uptown | url=https://www.siff.net/cinema/cinema-venues/siff-cinema-uptown | email=info@siff.net | address=511 Queen Anne Ave N | lat=47.62352 | long=-122.3597372 | directions= | phone=+1 206-464-5830 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=[https://www.siff.net/cinema/box-office Variable pricing] | wikidata=Q43306738 | content=Three-screen theater showing art, indie, and foreign films and documentaries. }} ===Water sports=== * {{do | name=Lake Union Crew | alt= | url=https://lakeunioncrew.com/ | email= | address=2520 Westlake Ave N | lat=47.64315 | long=-122.34324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-19 | content=A club boathouse for the local rowing community. If you have no rowing experience, classes are offered. }} * {{do | name=Northwest Outdoor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nwoc.com/ | email= | address=2100 Westlake Ave N Ste 1 | lat=47.63861 | long=-122.33987 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-19 | content=Kayak and paddleboard rentals. }} * {{do | name=The Electric Boat Company | alt= | url=https://www.theelectricboatco.com/ | email= | address=2046 Westlake Ave #102 | lat=47.63803 | long=-122.34006 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-21 | content=Electric boat rentals for up to 12 passengers. Offers enclosed and heated vessels for year-round appeal. No prior experience needed. }} Also see the museum listing for '''Center For Wooden Boats''', where you can also rent a sailboat or join a free Sunday cruise. ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Queen Anne Farmers' Market | alt= | url=https://qafm.org/ | email= | address=Queen Ave N & W Crockett St | lat=47.63705 | long=-122.35782 | directions=Parking Lot 1 block west at 1st Ave & W Crockett St | phone=+1 206 428-1983 | tollfree= | hours=Jun-Oct: Th 3PM to 7:30PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-19 | content=Farmers market with food booths and vendors selling crafts up on Queen Anne Hill }} * {{buy | name=South Lake Union Saturday market | alt= | url=http://slumarket.com/ | email= | address=139 9th Ave | lat=47.6192 | long=-122.3398 | directions=On 9th Av between Denny & John at east side of Denny Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=May-Oct: Sa 11AM to 4PM | price=Free| lastedit=2023-05-14 | content=Farmers market with food booths and vendors selling crafts. }} * Once you get to the top of Queen Anne hill (about a mile north from Seattle Center and several hundred feet uphill) there's a few blocks with some nice window shopping. Check out '''Foundations Seattle''' and '''Willa''' for women's clothes, '''Queen Anne Book Store''', '''Blue Highway Games''' for board games, and see what else you can find nestled between the numerous hair and beauty salons. ===Outdoors equipment=== Seattle is one of the best cities in the world to buy high-quality secondhand outdoors equipment &mdash; good to know, because brand new equipment can be really expensive. The '''REI Flagship Store''' anchors a small pocket of boutique outdoors retail. * {{buy | name=Play It Again Sports | url=https://www.playseattle.com/ | email= | address=1304 Stewart St | lat=47.6187 | long=-122.3307 | directions=Stewart St & Denny Way | phone=+1 206-264-9255 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10AM-8PM, Sa-Su 10AM-6PM | price= | content=New and secondhand sports equipment, usually in excellent condition. Skis and snowboards, bikes, and a small assortment of other sporting goods. }} *{{buy | name=REI Flagship Store | alt= | url=https://www.rei.com/stores/seattle | email= | address=222 Yale Ave N | lat=47.62004 | long=-122.33019 | directions= | phone=+1 206-223-1944 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-9PM, Su 10AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2018-02-08 | content=Recreation Equipment Inc., the large outdoors equipment retailer, was founded in Seattle in 1938. REI's sprawling flagship store has an outdoor trail for test-driving mountain bikes, a climbing wall, and a small "mountain" in the shoe section for trying hiking boots. It also has a clearance section where you can often find boots, down sleeping bags, tents, etc. with easily repairable damage at a fraction of the cost. }} ==Eat== There are a number of food carts that typically cater to office workers at the South Lake Union complex. They generally open for lunch on weekdays, with tenants changing each day. ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Community Banana Stand | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.61593 | long=-122.33959 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-F 8AM-3:30PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q108558314 | lastedit=2026-04-17 | content=A fruit stand offering free bananas to passersby, operated by Amazon from its headquarters. The stand gives away thousands of bananas each weekday, as a cheap and convenient way to give a little boost to employees and the general public alike. }} * {{eat | name=Dick's Drive In | alt= | url=https://www.ddir.com/ | email= | address=500 Queen Anne Ave N | lat=47.62342 | long=-122.35658 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Art Marble 21 | alt= | url=http://www.artmarble21.com/ | email= | address=731 Westlake Ave N | lat=47.62644 | long=-122.33948 | directions= | phone=+1 206-223-0300 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=American cuisine and prime sports viewing. Large game room with free arcade games, billiards, giant Jenga, cornhole, bocce ball, and more. }} * {{eat | name=Cafe Goldinblack | alt= | url=http://goldinblack.blogspot.com/ | email= | address=621 Queen Anne Ave N | lat=47.62518 | long=-122.35684 | directions=Along Queen Ave N between W Roy & Mercer St | phone=+1 206-466-2737 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 11:30 AM-9:30PM, F Sa 11:30AM-10:30PM, Su 11:30AM-8:30PM | price= | lastedit=2015-09-08 | content=A good and inexpensive Korean restaurant with good bibimbap and good lunch specials that also serves alcohol. Located across the street from the Marqueen Hotel and a few doors down from Peso's. }} * {{eat | name=Molly Moon's Homemade Ice Cream | alt= | url=https://www.mollymoon.com/ | email=info@mollymoon.com | address=321 W Galer St | lat=47.6277 | long=-122.3618 | directions=in Lower Queen Anne, near 4th Avenue West | phone=+1 206-457-8854 | tollfree= | hours=Su -Th Noon–10PM; F Sa Noon-11PM | price=$5 for an enormous single scoop | lastedit=2026-01-03 | content=Molly Moon's offers 14 flavors of ice cream, homemade on the premises within sight of the customers. One vegan option is usually offered. Many staff have learned some basic American Sign Language. }} ===Splurge=== Queen Anne is a relatively upscale neighborhood, and generally the restaurants rise to the occasion. * {{eat | name=Canlis | alt= | url=https://www.canlis.com | email=reservations@canlis.com | address=2576 Aurora Ave N | lat=47.64308 | long=-122.34675 | directions= | phone=+1 206-283-3313 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 5PM-close | price=$180 | wikidata=Q14713604 | lastedit=2026-01-03 | content=Seattle's longstanding fine dining restaurant, with a wonderful view overlooking Lake Union and Queen Anne Hill. Live piano music. Make reservations well in advance (a week or two ahead) and dress well; it's one of the few Seattle establishments with a strict dress code. }} ==Drink== True to Seattle form, you need never go more than a few blocks without stumbling into a coffee shop. At the corner of Queen Anne Ave N and Boston St, for example, there is a '''Caffe Ladro''', a '''Café Hagen''', and a '''Starbucks'''. * {{drink | name=Caffe Fiore | url= | email= | address=224 W Galer St | lat=47.63246 | long=-122.36083 | directions=W Galer Ave at 3rd Avenue W | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily until 7PM | price= | content=An organic coffeeshop three blocks north of Kerry Park, offering a true experience of Seattle coffee house culture: good local art on display that changes on the first day of every month, consistently excellent coffee, environmental consciousness to a fault (the straws are compostable), and neighborly vitality that's easy to witness but hard to describe. Handsome baristas remember the orders of regular patrons, and most everyone you see is a regular patron. The coffee is rich, aromatic, and consistently excellent. Outdoor seating for sunny summer days. The most common order is a short latte, and for good reason. }} * {{drink | name=Top Pot Doughnuts | url=https://www.toppotdoughnuts.com/ | email= | address=325 W Galer St | lat=47.63220 | long=-122.36154 | directions=At 4th Ave W | phone=+1 206-631-2120 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Lodged in a former neighborhood grocery, this place offers "hand-forged" doughnuts, coffee, juice, and the like. Free wireless available. }} * {{drink | name=Macrina Bakery | alt=McGraw Cafe | url=https://macrinabakery.com/ | email= | address=615 W McGraw St | lat=47.63948 | long=-122.36574 | directions=At 6th Ave W | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A premier local bakery whose chef was a finalist for a 2007 James Beard Award. Selection changes seasonally and daily, but there's always something delicious on offer. An excellent choice for a breakfast or light lunch; cafe-style seating encourages you to sit down and stay a while. Espresso can be inconsistent, if you're picky, grab food to go and walk elsewhere for coffee. }} * {{drink | name=Queen Anne Coffee Co. | alt= | url=https://queenannecoffeeco.com/ | email= | address=1811 Queen Anne Ave N | lat=47.635204 | long=-122.357336 | directions= | phone=+1 206-566-6788 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-01-03 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Moonrise Bakery | alt= | url=https://www.moonrise-bakery.com/ | email=hello@moonrise-bakery.com | address=1805 Queen Anne Ave N | lat=47.634984 | long=-122.357373 | directions= | phone=+1 206-623-7383 | tollfree= | hours=7AM-5PM | price= | image=Seattle, September 7, 2024 - 338.jpg | wikidata=Q130300848 | lastedit=2026-01-03 | content= }} If you're looking for something to balance out all that caffeine as a stimulant, Lower Queen Anne fits the bill. * {{drink | name=Ozzie's | url=http://www.ozziesseattle.com | email= | address=105 W Mercer St | lat=47.62448 | long=-122.35828 | directions= | phone=+1 206-284-4618 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=8AM-2AM daily | price= | content=Karaoke is the name of the game at Ozzie's and is available every night starting at 9PM. }} * {{drink | name=Toulouse Petit Kitchen & Lounge | alt= | url=http://toulousepetit.com/ | email= | address=601 Queen Anne Avenue North | lat=47.62473 | long=-122.3569 | directions=NW corner of Queen Ave N & W Mercer St | phone=+1 206-432-9069 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 8AM-2AM | price= | content=Excellent restaurant and lounge featuring New Orleans-style food and drink that was listed as a 2012 Travelers Choice Awards winner for one of America's best restaurants and one of the best happy hours in the USA by CNBC survey (great beignets). Happy hour every day from 4PM to 6PM and 10PM to 1AM with a breakfast happy hour from Monday to Friday from 8AM to 11AM. }} ==Sleep== There are some business hotels in South Lake Union and along Eastlake Ave. The Seattle Center area hosts several smaller hotels. [[Seattle/Downtown|Downtown]] offers far more options. * {{sleep | name=Comfort Suites Downtown - Seattle Center | url=http://www.comfortsuites-seattle.com | email= | address=601 Roy St | lat=47.62529 | long=-122.34480 | directions= | phone=+1 206-282-2600 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn | url= | email= | address=211 Dexter Ave N | lat=47.62032 | long=-122.34283 | directions= | phone=+1 206-728-8123 | tollfree= | fax=+1 206-728-2779 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Homewood Suites by Hilton Seattle | url=http://www.seattledowntown.homewoodsuites.com | email= | address=206 Western Ave W | lat=47.62024 | long=-122.35963 | directions= | phone=+1 206-281-9393 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=All-suite hotel with views of Elliott Bay, 4 blocks from Seattle Center and the Space Needle, 6 blocks from the Olympic Sculpture Park. }} * {{sleep | name=MarQueen Hotel | url=http://www.marqueen.com | email= | address=600 Queen Anne Ave N | lat=47.62475 | long=-122.35654 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Boutique lodging accommodations. }} * {{sleep | name=The Mediterranean | url= | email= | address=425 Queen Anne Ave N | lat=47.62248 | long=-122.35695 | directions= | phone=+1 206-428-4700 | tollfree=+1-866-525-4700 | fax=+1 206-428-4699 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Maxwell Hotel | url=http://www.themaxwellhotel.com | email= | address=300 Roy St | lat=47.62557 | long=-122.35130 | directions=between Nob Hill and Third Ave | phone= | tollfree=+1-877-298-9728 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Unique dog and earth-friendly lodging with a business center, free parking, and views of the Space Needle. }} *{{sleep | name=Travelodge Seattle Center | url=http://www.travelodgeseattlecenter.com | email= | address=200 6th Ave N | lat=47.62017 | long=-122.34459 | directions= | phone=+1 206-441-7878 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Two blocks east of the Space Needle and monorail terminal, adjacent to Belltown. About a mile's walk (or a few minutes on the monorail) from the downtown core. }} ==Connect== '''[https://www.spl.org/ Seattle Public Library]''' offers open Wi-Fi at all branches, using the SSID '''spl-public'''. Public computers with Internet access and basic office software are available for up to 30 minutes for those without a SPL library card; get a temporary pass from the circulation desk. All services are free. * {{listing | name=Queen Anne Branch | alt= | url=https://www.spl.org/hours-and-locations/queen-anne-branch | email= | address=400 W Garfield St | lat=47.63385 | long=-122.36276 | directions=at 4th Ave W | phone=+1 206-386-4227 | tollfree= | hours=M Tu 1-8PM, W Th Sa 11AM-6PM, Closed F and Su | price= | wikidata=Q69764521 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Magnolia Branch | url=https://www.spl.org/hours-and-locations/magnolia-branch | email= | address=2801 34th Ave W | lat=47.64533 | long=-122.40141 | directions=at W Armour St | phone=+1 206-386-4225 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M Tu 1-8PM, W Th 11AM-6PM, Su noon-5PM, closed F and Sa | price= | content= }} ===By mail=== * {{listing | name=Queen Anne Post Office | alt=US Postal Service | url=https://tools.usps.com/find-location.htm?location=1378608 | email= | address=415 1st Ave N | lat=47.62288 | long=-122.35564 | directions= | phone=+1 206-282-0542 | tollfree=+1-800-275-8777 | fax= | hours=M-F 8:30AM-6PM, Sa 9AM-3PM | price= | lastedit=2018-12-20 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Magnolia Post Office | alt=US Postal Service | url=https://tools.usps.com/find-location.htm?location=1371417 | email= | address=3211 W McGraw St | lat=47.6394 | long=-122.3990 | directions= | phone=+1 206-284-5958 | tollfree=+1-800-275-8777 | fax= | hours=M-F 9AM-1PM & 2-5PM; Sa 9AM-1PM & 2-3PM | price= | content= }} {{IsPartOf|Seattle}} {{geo|47.62455|-122.34360|zoom=14}} {{usabledistrict}} rbhwys6q4cbx2pn64yxz3d775wnh9b8 5288951 5288947 2026-06-06T23:46:18Z Peaceray 298813 /* Film */ tweaking SIFF Cinema Uptown coordinates 5288951 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wikivoyage page banner virginia V.jpg|pgname=Queen Anne & South Lake Union|caption=The Virgina V moored on Lake Union}} Northwest of [[Seattle/Downtown|Downtown Seattle]], '''Queen Anne''' is a hilly residential neighborhood with marvelous views of the city's skyline. '''Magnolia''', a wealthy residential neighborhood, sits on a peninsula west of Queen Anne, separated from Queen Anne by '''Interbay''', an unexpected commercial and industrial strip in the valley between the two hilly neighborhoods. [[Image:Space Needle and International Fountain.JPG|thumb|upright=0.8|Space Needle and International Fountain]] '''[https://www.seattlecenter.com/ Seattle Center]''', at the southern base of Queen Anne Hill, was built to host the 1962 World's Fair. Today, Seattle Center is a park-like facility surrounded by many of [[Seattle]]'s finest event venues and museums, as well as two iconic relics from the World's Fair: the Monorail and the Space Needle. The restaurants and bars of '''Uptown''', also called ''Lower Queen Anne'', surround Seattle Center. Directly north of Downtown is '''South Lake Union''', a former industrial neighborhood until Amazon's headquarters and a range of biotech organizations kicked off a wave of gentrification, quickly filling out Seattle's skyline with mid-rise office and apartment towers. ==Get in== {{mapframe|47.639|-122.370|zoom=12|height=300|width=400}} {{mapmask|47.6429,-122.3347|47.6529,-122.3226|47.6367,-122.3230|47.6316,-122.3249|47.6280,-122.3283|47.6185,-122.3285|47.6185,-122.3572|47.619,-122.382|47.642,-122.431|47.664,-122.440|47.672,-122.421|47.6716,-122.4074|47.6670,-122.4054|47.6589,-122.3728|47.6523,-122.3601|47.6463,-122.3462}} {{mapshapes|Q2778618}} <!-- Link light rail --> Seattle Center and South Lake Union lie within easy walking or bicycling distance of [[Seattle/Downtown|Downtown]]. Climbing up Queen Anne Hill, on the other hand, is more of a workout. Aurora Avenue (SR-99) is a highway that emerges from a tunnel north of Seattle Center and can only be crossed in a few spots. Queen Anne Avenue is the dividing line between the "North" and the "West" roads. So don't be surprised if you cross 1st Avenue N, and then shortly thereafter find yourself crossing 1st Avenue W without having changed direction! ===By car=== Queen Anne Hill can be difficult to navigate due to its geography, especially by car. There are two simple ways to get to the center of the neighborhood: * via Queen Anne Avenue from the south (though take note: Queen Anne Avenue traffic is south-only when south of Roy Street). * by 3rd Avenue W from the north side, near Seattle Pacific University. * Approaching by Dexter Avenue, Gilman Avenue, W Dravus Street or any of the numerous side streets should not be attempted unless you have time to kill. Seattle Center and South Lake Union are best reached by Denny Way along the south end, and Mercer St along the north. Mercer Street is the most convenient from I-5, although it's amongst the most traffic-congested streets in the city. Parking is plentiful, albeit often expensive. Dexter, Westlake, Fairview, and Eastlake Avenues pass through South Lake Union. To access Magnolia, from the north take Emerson Street Bridge over 15th Avenue towards the Fisherman's Terminal. From the south, take 15th Avenue W (Elliott), exiting at the Magnolia Bridge. ===By public transit=== * {{listing | name=King County Metro | url=https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/metro | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=Queen Anne is served mainly by frequent and all-day bus routes 1, 2, 4, 8, 13 and the RapidRide D line, all of which make stops close to the Seattle Center. Upper Queen Anne Hill (up the hill) is served only by 1, 2, 4 and 13. South Lake Union is served by frequent bus route 62 on Dexter Avenue, while Fairview Avenue is served by frequent bus route 70. Magnolia is served by the all-day bus routes 24 and 33, with 33 serving Discovery Park from Downtown Seattle. Route 31 connects Magnolia to University District through Wallingford, Fremont and Seattle Pacific University without going through Downtown. See the King County Metro website for schedules and maps. }} * {{go | name=Seattle Center Monorail | alt= | url=https://www.seattlemonorail.com/ | email= | address=Northern terminus at Experience Music Center (EMP) | lat=47.62125 | long=-122.34973 | directions=Seattle Center | phone=+1 206-905-2620 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 7:30AM-9PM, F 7:30AM-11PM, Sa 8:30AM-11PM, Su 8:30AM-9PM | price=One-way $4 adults, $2 seniors/youth/military, ORCA cards accepted, no paper transfers accepted | wikipedia=Seattle Center Monorail | image=Monorail (Seattle, Washington)-7.jpg | wikidata=Q2618100 | lastedit=2026-01-03 | content=An attraction in itself, the historic monorail makes a direct connection between Westlake Center in Downtown and Seattle Center. }} * {{go | name=South Lake Union Streetcar | alt= | url=https://www.seattle.gov/transportation/getting-around/transit/streetcar/south-lake-union-line | email= | address=Northern terminus on Fairview & Campus Dr | lat=47.6276 | long=-122.3325 | directions=next to Fred Hutchison Cancer Research Center | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 6AM-9PM, F Sa 6AM-11PM, Su 10AM-7PM, all at 15 minute intervals | price=$2.25 adults, $1 seniors, $1.50 youth | wikipedia=South Lake Union Streetcar | wikidata=Q12069683 | lastedit=2023-06-17 | content=This streetcar runs from Westlake Center in Downtown to the southeastern shore of Lake Union. The streetcar was announced as the "South Lake Union Trolley" until the developer realized the unfortunate acronym, which is still used by many residents. }} ==See== * {{see | name=Discovery Park | alt= | url=https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/discovery-park | email= | address=3801 W Government Way | lat=47.660530 | long=-122.415720 | directions= | phone=+1 206-684-4075 | tollfree= | hours=4ː30AM-11PM | price= | wikipedia=Discovery Park (Seattle) | wikidata=Q3030228 | lastedit=2026-01-09 | content=The largest park in the city can be thought of as Seattle's unofficial central park given its huge, somewhat secluded nature, with a number of trails that meander through the green forests down to the lighthouse at the beach. Discovery Park used to be an army installation called Fort Lawton, and several of the fort's buildings remain. The park features the highest point in the city and wildlife you don't typically find in a large city. A visitors' center with information about the wildlife living in the park and the best trails to hike are in the center of the park. The visitor center is closed until summer 2027. }} [[File:Kerry Park.jpg|thumb|A postcard-perfect view of Seattle, as seen from Kerry Park]] * {{see | name=Kerry Park | alt= | url=https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/kerry-park | email= | address=211 W Highland Dr | lat=47.629600 | long=-122.359400 | directions= | phone=+1 206-684-4075 | tollfree= | hours=6AM-10PM | price= | wikipedia=Kerry Park (Seattle) | image=Seattle 4.jpg | wikidata=Q6394618 | lastedit=2026-01-09 | content=A photographer's paradise, this is perhaps the most obvious spectacle in Queen Anne. This park affords the quintessential view of Downtown Seattle with the Space Needle in the foreground, and (depending on the weather) Mount Rainier and the Cascades, as well as across the Puget Sound to Bainbridge Island. }} * {{see | name=Bhy Kracke Park | alt= | url=https://www.seattle.gov/parks/parks/bhy-kracke-park | email= | address=1215 5th Ave N | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130286718 | lastedit=2026-04-21 | content=Pronounced "By Crackie". You can get a view comparable to that from the Space Needle for free. }} * {{see | name=Fishermen's Terminal | alt= | url=https://www.portseattle.org/maritime/fishermen-terminal | email= | address= | lat=47.65578 | long=-122.38063 | directions=just southwest of the Ballard Bridge | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Fishermen's Terminal | wikidata=Q5454928 | content=Carefully wander the docks (avoiding stepping on ropes or nets) and look at the boats. Many of them sell fresh crab or fish right off of the boat in season. Much of the Alaska crab fishing fleet moors here (or elsewhere in Lake Union) during the off-season, including vessels featured in the long-running ''Deadliest Catch'' television series. Visit the '''[https://www.seattlefishermensmemorial.org/ Fishermen's Memorial]''' dedicated to all of those who have lost their lives at sea while engaged in commercial fishing. }} ===Seattle Center=== [[Image:Experience Music Project.JPG|thumb|upright=0.8|Museum of Pop Culture]] The 1962 World's Fair left Seattle with Seattle Center, the region's largest cluster of civic spaces. Pedestrian avenues, lined with small parks and fountains, connect a collection of museums, fine arts venues, and monumental architecture. * {{see | name=Space Needle | alt= | url=https://www.spaceneedle.com/ | email=guestservice@spaceneedle.com | address=400 Broad St | lat=47.6204 | long=-122.3491 | directions=Seattle monorail is very close to the Needle and multiple buses have a stop nearby | phone=+1 206-905-2100 | tollfree= | hours=830am-11:30pm (Fri,Sat) 830am-1030pm (Sunday) 9am-1030pm (Mon-Thurs) | price=standard admission is 55$ (discounts of up to 20$ per ticket if reservation made at lease 1 day in advance) | wikipedia=Space Needle | image=Space needle Seattle1.jpg | wikidata=Q5317 | lastedit=2019-02-26 | content=A symbol of Seattle, built for the 1962 World's Fair and still a wildly popular attraction. The view is spectacular on a clear day when the sun sets, when Downtown Seattle contrasts beautifully with the ocean to the west and the snow-capped mountains in every other direction. There are floor-to-ceiling windows on both levels, a rotating glass floor ("The Loupe") on the lower level that completes one revolution every 45 minutes, and open-air glass walls where you can lean backwards and take a selfie. The revolving Sky City restaurant has been closed due to renovations, but the wine bar is still open. }} * {{see | name=Pacific Science Center | alt= | url=https://www.pacificsciencecenter.org/ | email=gs@pacsci.org | address=200 Sue Bird Ct N | lat=47.619200 | long=-122.351000 | directions= | phone=+1 206-443-2844 | tollfree= | fax=+1 206-443-3631 | hours=W-Su 10AM–5PM | price=Adults from̩ $22.95-̩$28.20 depending on day. Planetarium and daytime laser shows included, but requires timed tickets | wikipedia=Pacific Science Center | image=Pacific Science Center at night 04.jpg | wikidata=Q3848341 | lastedit=2026-01-09 | content=An interactive science museum featuring permanent and temporary exhibits, a butterfly atrium, IMAX theater, planetarium, and laser shows. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Pop Culture | alt=MoPOP | url=https://www.mopop.org/ | email=info@mopop.org | address=325 5th Ave N | lat=47.6215 | long=-122.3486 | directions= | phone=+1 206-770-2700 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (Memorial Day-Labor Day) 10AM-7PM daily; rest of year 10AM-5PM daily | price=$28 adults, $25 seniors/students, $22 military, $19 youth, children 4 and under free. $2 discount if purchased online. Additional $8 for special exhibit. Outdoor playground free | wikipedia=Museum of Pop Culture | image=Aerial view of EMPSFM.jpg | wikidata=Q1384356 | lastedit=2019-01-11 | content=An excellent pop culture museum housed inside a visually striking building designed by Frank Gehry to "evoke the rock 'n' roll experience", with exhibits on all manner of popular culture: film, television, music, video games, fashion, etc. There's a particular focus on science fiction and Seattle musicians, with a sci-fi hall of fame and exhibits dedicated to Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana. Top-notch special exhibits have included the likes of David Bowie, ''Star Trek'', the Marvel comic and movie universe, and ''Minecraft''. There are many interactive exhibits, but don't expect to get a turn without a long wait. Outside, the large playground is a big hit with kids. }} * {{see | name=Seattle Children's Museum | alt= | url=https://seattlechildrensmuseum.org/ | email= | address=200 2nd Ave N | lat=47.6214 | long=-122.351 | directions= | phone=+1 206-441-1768 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10AM-5PM, Sa Su 10AM-6PM | price=General exhibits: $7.50, $6.50 seniors, children under 1 free; no adults admitted without a child | wikipedia=Seattle Children's Museum | image=Children’s Museum (2891578446).jpg | wikidata=Q7442070 |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=An independent non-profit museum which hosts popular traveling exhibits and features permanent exhibits and programs geared towards children. }} * {{see | name=Chihuly Garden and Glass | alt= | url=https://www.chihulygardenandglass.com/ | email=info@chihulygardenandglass.com | address=305 Harrison St | lat=47.6206 | long=-122.35 | directions= | phone=+1 407 956-3527 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 10AM–10PM, F-Su 10AM-11PM; last ticket sold one hour prior to closing; combined tickets with Space Needle available | price=$19 adults, $17 seniors, $12 children, children 3 and under free | wikipedia=Chihuly Garden and Glass | image=| wikidata=Q5097315 |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=This museum provides a look at the inspiration and influences that inform the career of artist Dale Chihuly. The on-site exhibition hall contains eight galleries and three drawing walls, offering visitors a comprehensive look at Chihuly’s significant series of work. The centerpiece of the museum is a glasshouse with a suspended 1,400-piece, 100-foot-long sculpture. Also on the grounds is a lush garden, which serves as a backdrop for four monumental sculptures and other installations. }} ===South Lake Union=== * {{see | name=Lake Union Park | alt= | url=https://www.seattle.gov/parks/find/parks/lake-union-park | email= | address=860 Terry Ave N | lat=47.626380 | long=-122.336640 | directions=on the Lake Union Waterfront | phone=+1 206-684-4075 | tollfree= | hours=4AM-11ː30PM | price= | wikipedia=Lake Union Park | image=Aerial South Lake Union Park May 2012.JPG | wikidata=Q6478207 | lastedit=2026-01-09 | content=Home to the Center for Wooden Boats and the Museum of History and Industry. Spray park open Memorial Day to Labor Day. }} ** {{see | name=The Center for Wooden Boats | alt= | url=https://www.cwb.org/ | email= | address=1010 Valley St | lat=47.62711 | long=-122.33587 | directions= | phone=+1 206-382-2628 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Opens daily at 10AM except Mondays November through mid-April; closing hours vary by season. Free boat sails Sunday 10AM (signup), 11AM-3PM (cruise) | price=Free | wikipedia=Center for Wooden Boats | image=Seattle — The Center for Wooden Boats, IMG04.jpg | wikidata=Q5059922 |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=An intriguing museum where you can learn about maritime culture and experience sailing traditional wooden boats. The center's programs allow you to get a hands-on feel, putting in control of crafting and sailing your own wooden craft. On Sundays, rain or shine, you can get a free boat ride on a classic wooden boat around the lake for an hour. At times artist-in-residence Saaduuts leads programs. }} ** {{see | name=Museum of History and Industry | alt=MOHAI | url=https://mohai.org/ | email= | address=860 Terry Ave. N | lat=47.6276 | long=-122.337 | directions= | phone=+1 206-324-1126 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM–5PM, Thursdays until 8PM | price=$25 adults, $20 seniors, children under 14 free; free first Thursday of the month | wikipedia=Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) | image=MOHAI Armory building at Lake Union Park west side.jpg | wikidata=Q6940877 |lastedit=2026-04-21| content=The museum focuses on the history of Seattle and the greater Puget Sound region, with exhibitions focusing on the maritime history of the city and the rise of the region's technology industry, as well as a set of changing exhibits. }} ** {{see | name=Northwest Seaport/Maritime Heritage Center | alt= | url=https://www.nwseaport.org/ | email= | address=1002 Valley St | lat=47.62808 | long=-122.33665 | directions=in Lake Union Park | phone=+1 206-447-9800 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Northwest Seaport | wikidata=Q7060198 |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=Home to a number of historic ships, including a schooner, a tugboat, a fireboat, a lightship, a steamer, and several others. }} * {{see | name=South Lake Union Discovery Center | url=https://www.discoverslu.com/ | email= | address=101 Westlake Ave N | lat=47.61883 | long=-122.33879 | directions= | phone=+1 206-342-5900 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-6PM daily | price= |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=An introduction to the neighborhood, with displays explaining the history of South Lake Union. There is also a model of the whole neighborhood in the building. }} * '''Amazon.com''' built their headquarters in South Lake Union. The expansive construction of Amazon office towers and apartments and shops, as well as the visually-striking glass '''Spheres''', has made SLU practically synonymous with Amazon. ** {{see | name=Amazon HQ tour | url=https://www.seattlespheres.com/visit-hq | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W 10AM, 2PM | price= | content=90-minute tour of Amazon's urban campus including Doppler, Day 1, and the Spheres. There is also a '''self-guided audio tour'''; you can even get a free pair of headphones to keep from the receptionists at Day 1 (2121 7th Ave; M-F 7AM-6PM). }} ** {{see | name=Seattle Spheres | url=https://www.seattlespheres.com/the-spheres-weekend-public-visits | email= | address=2117 7th Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=1st and 3rd Sa of the month 10AM-6PM | price=Free; reservations required, available 30 days in advance | wikidata=Q48596158 | content=A building made of three glass domes filled with lush plants. Take an unguided stroll through the tropical heart of the Spheres. }} *** {{see | name=Understory | alt= | url=https://www.seattlespheres.com/visit-understory | email=visitspheres@amazon.com | address=2101 7th Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10AM-6PM | price=Free | lastedit=2026-01-04 | content=Visitor center about Amazon and the Spheres' flora and design. It's in the bottom floor of the Spheres and doesn't get you access to the upper floors where the plants live, but it's available 5 days a week unlike public access to the building. }} ** {{see | name=Public Art at Amazon Headquarters | url= | email= | address=426 Terry Ave N | lat=47.62262 | long=-122.33673 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=While the Amazon buildings are not open to the public, there are several signed outdoor art pieces around the complex and other nearby buildings, and you can hob-nob with "blue badges" at local restaurants and coffee shops. Seattle Architecture Foundation also leads guided walking tours. }} ==Do== ===Events=== '''Seattle Center''' hosts events almost every weekend of the year. These are some of the larger ones: * {{do | name=Northwest Folklife Festival | alt= | url=https://nwfolklife.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Memorial Day weekend (end of May) | price=free ($10 donation suggested) | wikipedia=Northwest Folklife | image=Seattle Center Pavilion during Folklife.jpg | wikidata=Q375649 |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=A more low-key and global version of Bumbershoot. }} * {{do | name=Bite of Seattle | alt= | url=https://biteofseattle.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Mid-late July | price= | wikipedia=Bite of Seattle | wikidata=Q4918822 |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=Part of the Seafair festivities. }} * {{do | name=Bumbershoot | url=https://bumbershoot.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Labor Day weekend (early Sep) | price= |lastedit=2023-06-17| content=A music and arts festival featuring dozens of local and world-class musical acts. }} * {{do | name=Seattle Center WinterFest | alt= | url=https://www.seattlecenter.com/winterfest/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Late Nov to late Dec or early Jan | price= | lastedit=2025-01-21 | content=Various activities/events during the holidays such as the WinterFest Ice rink (skate rental available for fee), Winter Train & Village, ice sculpting displays. }} * {{do | name=Festál Cultural Center | alt= | url=https://seattlecenter.com/events/featured-events/festal | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Year-round except Dec | price= | content=Celebrate the world with festivals from about 25 countries represented, one country nearly every 2 weeks. }} ===Entertainment=== * {{do | name=Climate Pledge Arena | alt= | url=https://climatepledgearena.com/ | email= | address=334 1st Ave N | lat=47.622 | long=-122.354 | directions= | phone=+1 206-460-7825 (ticketing) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | wikipedia=Climate Pledge Arena | image=Climate pledge arena.jpg | wikidata=Q977529 | content=The region's largest sports arena is home to the NHL's Seattle Kraken, the WNBA's Seattle Storm, and college men's basketball games of the Seattle Redhawks (Seattle University), as well as a major concert venue. It was built for the 1962 World's Fair. The arena's interior was completely gutted and rebuilt for the Kraken, but its original exterior remains intact, maintaining its historic listing. Tours not available; if you want to see the inside, you have to attend an event. }} * {{do | name=Seattle Chamber Music Society | alt= | url=https://www.seattlechambermusic.org/ | email= | address=10 Harrison St | lat=47.6222 | long=-122.3565 | directions= | phone=+1 206-283-8710 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Seattle Chamber Music Society | wikidata=Q7442066 | lastedit=2018-03-02 | content= }} * {{do | name=McCaw Hall | alt= | url=https://www.mccawhall.com/ | email= | address=321 Mercer St | lat=47.62397 | long=-122.35039 | directions=NE corner of Seattle Center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q11705574 | content=Home of the [https://www.seattleopera.org/ Seattle Opera] and the [http://www.pnb.org/ Pacific Northwest Ballet], each considered among the best in the United States. }} * {{do | name=Seattle Repertory Theatre | alt= | url=https://www.seattlerep.org/ | email= | address=155 Mercer St | lat=47.62459 | long=-122.3533 | directions= | phone=+1 206-443-2222 (call), +1 206-565-2996 (text) | tollfree= | hours=Box officeː M-F noon-5PM, by phone noon-6PM | price= | wikidata=Q7442163 | lastedit=2025-02-15 | content=The largest nonprofit resident theatre in the Pacific Northwest. }} ===Film=== * {{do | name=Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF)| alt= | url=https://www.siff.net/ | email=info@siff.net | address=[https://www.siff.net/cinema/cinema-venues SIFF Cinemas] and other venues | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 206-464-5830 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=May | price= | wikidata=Q2399132 | content=One of the largest film festivals in North America. Screenings are at the [[w:SIFF Cinema Uptown]], [https://www.siff.net/cinema/cinema-venues/siff-film-center SIFF Film Center], and at venues in adjacent districts. }} * {{do | name=SIFF Cinema Uptown | url=https://www.siff.net/cinema/cinema-venues/siff-cinema-uptown | email=info@siff.net | address=511 Queen Anne Ave N | lat=47.623532 | long=-122.357005 | directions= | phone=+1 206-464-5830 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=[https://www.siff.net/cinema/box-office Variable pricing] | wikidata=Q43306738 | content=Three-screen theater showing art, indie, and foreign films and documentaries. }} ===Water sports=== * {{do | name=Lake Union Crew | alt= | url=https://lakeunioncrew.com/ | email= | address=2520 Westlake Ave N | lat=47.64315 | long=-122.34324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-19 | content=A club boathouse for the local rowing community. If you have no rowing experience, classes are offered. }} * {{do | name=Northwest Outdoor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nwoc.com/ | email= | address=2100 Westlake Ave N Ste 1 | lat=47.63861 | long=-122.33987 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-19 | content=Kayak and paddleboard rentals. }} * {{do | name=The Electric Boat Company | alt= | url=https://www.theelectricboatco.com/ | email= | address=2046 Westlake Ave #102 | lat=47.63803 | long=-122.34006 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-21 | content=Electric boat rentals for up to 12 passengers. Offers enclosed and heated vessels for year-round appeal. No prior experience needed. }} Also see the museum listing for '''Center For Wooden Boats''', where you can also rent a sailboat or join a free Sunday cruise. ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Queen Anne Farmers' Market | alt= | url=https://qafm.org/ | email= | address=Queen Ave N & W Crockett St | lat=47.63705 | long=-122.35782 | directions=Parking Lot 1 block west at 1st Ave & W Crockett St | phone=+1 206 428-1983 | tollfree= | hours=Jun-Oct: Th 3PM to 7:30PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-19 | content=Farmers market with food booths and vendors selling crafts up on Queen Anne Hill }} * {{buy | name=South Lake Union Saturday market | alt= | url=http://slumarket.com/ | email= | address=139 9th Ave | lat=47.6192 | long=-122.3398 | directions=On 9th Av between Denny & John at east side of Denny Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=May-Oct: Sa 11AM to 4PM | price=Free| lastedit=2023-05-14 | content=Farmers market with food booths and vendors selling crafts. }} * Once you get to the top of Queen Anne hill (about a mile north from Seattle Center and several hundred feet uphill) there's a few blocks with some nice window shopping. Check out '''Foundations Seattle''' and '''Willa''' for women's clothes, '''Queen Anne Book Store''', '''Blue Highway Games''' for board games, and see what else you can find nestled between the numerous hair and beauty salons. ===Outdoors equipment=== Seattle is one of the best cities in the world to buy high-quality secondhand outdoors equipment &mdash; good to know, because brand new equipment can be really expensive. The '''REI Flagship Store''' anchors a small pocket of boutique outdoors retail. * {{buy | name=Play It Again Sports | url=https://www.playseattle.com/ | email= | address=1304 Stewart St | lat=47.6187 | long=-122.3307 | directions=Stewart St & Denny Way | phone=+1 206-264-9255 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10AM-8PM, Sa-Su 10AM-6PM | price= | content=New and secondhand sports equipment, usually in excellent condition. Skis and snowboards, bikes, and a small assortment of other sporting goods. }} *{{buy | name=REI Flagship Store | alt= | url=https://www.rei.com/stores/seattle | email= | address=222 Yale Ave N | lat=47.62004 | long=-122.33019 | directions= | phone=+1 206-223-1944 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-9PM, Su 10AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2018-02-08 | content=Recreation Equipment Inc., the large outdoors equipment retailer, was founded in Seattle in 1938. REI's sprawling flagship store has an outdoor trail for test-driving mountain bikes, a climbing wall, and a small "mountain" in the shoe section for trying hiking boots. It also has a clearance section where you can often find boots, down sleeping bags, tents, etc. with easily repairable damage at a fraction of the cost. }} ==Eat== There are a number of food carts that typically cater to office workers at the South Lake Union complex. They generally open for lunch on weekdays, with tenants changing each day. ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Community Banana Stand | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.61593 | long=-122.33959 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-F 8AM-3:30PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q108558314 | lastedit=2026-04-17 | content=A fruit stand offering free bananas to passersby, operated by Amazon from its headquarters. The stand gives away thousands of bananas each weekday, as a cheap and convenient way to give a little boost to employees and the general public alike. }} * {{eat | name=Dick's Drive In | alt= | url=https://www.ddir.com/ | email= | address=500 Queen Anne Ave N | lat=47.62342 | long=-122.35658 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Art Marble 21 | alt= | url=http://www.artmarble21.com/ | email= | address=731 Westlake Ave N | lat=47.62644 | long=-122.33948 | directions= | phone=+1 206-223-0300 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=American cuisine and prime sports viewing. Large game room with free arcade games, billiards, giant Jenga, cornhole, bocce ball, and more. }} * {{eat | name=Cafe Goldinblack | alt= | url=http://goldinblack.blogspot.com/ | email= | address=621 Queen Anne Ave N | lat=47.62518 | long=-122.35684 | directions=Along Queen Ave N between W Roy & Mercer St | phone=+1 206-466-2737 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 11:30 AM-9:30PM, F Sa 11:30AM-10:30PM, Su 11:30AM-8:30PM | price= | lastedit=2015-09-08 | content=A good and inexpensive Korean restaurant with good bibimbap and good lunch specials that also serves alcohol. Located across the street from the Marqueen Hotel and a few doors down from Peso's. }} * {{eat | name=Molly Moon's Homemade Ice Cream | alt= | url=https://www.mollymoon.com/ | email=info@mollymoon.com | address=321 W Galer St | lat=47.6277 | long=-122.3618 | directions=in Lower Queen Anne, near 4th Avenue West | phone=+1 206-457-8854 | tollfree= | hours=Su -Th Noon–10PM; F Sa Noon-11PM | price=$5 for an enormous single scoop | lastedit=2026-01-03 | content=Molly Moon's offers 14 flavors of ice cream, homemade on the premises within sight of the customers. One vegan option is usually offered. Many staff have learned some basic American Sign Language. }} ===Splurge=== Queen Anne is a relatively upscale neighborhood, and generally the restaurants rise to the occasion. * {{eat | name=Canlis | alt= | url=https://www.canlis.com | email=reservations@canlis.com | address=2576 Aurora Ave N | lat=47.64308 | long=-122.34675 | directions= | phone=+1 206-283-3313 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 5PM-close | price=$180 | wikidata=Q14713604 | lastedit=2026-01-03 | content=Seattle's longstanding fine dining restaurant, with a wonderful view overlooking Lake Union and Queen Anne Hill. Live piano music. Make reservations well in advance (a week or two ahead) and dress well; it's one of the few Seattle establishments with a strict dress code. }} ==Drink== True to Seattle form, you need never go more than a few blocks without stumbling into a coffee shop. At the corner of Queen Anne Ave N and Boston St, for example, there is a '''Caffe Ladro''', a '''Café Hagen''', and a '''Starbucks'''. * {{drink | name=Caffe Fiore | url= | email= | address=224 W Galer St | lat=47.63246 | long=-122.36083 | directions=W Galer Ave at 3rd Avenue W | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily until 7PM | price= | content=An organic coffeeshop three blocks north of Kerry Park, offering a true experience of Seattle coffee house culture: good local art on display that changes on the first day of every month, consistently excellent coffee, environmental consciousness to a fault (the straws are compostable), and neighborly vitality that's easy to witness but hard to describe. Handsome baristas remember the orders of regular patrons, and most everyone you see is a regular patron. The coffee is rich, aromatic, and consistently excellent. Outdoor seating for sunny summer days. The most common order is a short latte, and for good reason. }} * {{drink | name=Top Pot Doughnuts | url=https://www.toppotdoughnuts.com/ | email= | address=325 W Galer St | lat=47.63220 | long=-122.36154 | directions=At 4th Ave W | phone=+1 206-631-2120 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Lodged in a former neighborhood grocery, this place offers "hand-forged" doughnuts, coffee, juice, and the like. Free wireless available. }} * {{drink | name=Macrina Bakery | alt=McGraw Cafe | url=https://macrinabakery.com/ | email= | address=615 W McGraw St | lat=47.63948 | long=-122.36574 | directions=At 6th Ave W | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A premier local bakery whose chef was a finalist for a 2007 James Beard Award. Selection changes seasonally and daily, but there's always something delicious on offer. An excellent choice for a breakfast or light lunch; cafe-style seating encourages you to sit down and stay a while. Espresso can be inconsistent, if you're picky, grab food to go and walk elsewhere for coffee. }} * {{drink | name=Queen Anne Coffee Co. | alt= | url=https://queenannecoffeeco.com/ | email= | address=1811 Queen Anne Ave N | lat=47.635204 | long=-122.357336 | directions= | phone=+1 206-566-6788 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-01-03 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Moonrise Bakery | alt= | url=https://www.moonrise-bakery.com/ | email=hello@moonrise-bakery.com | address=1805 Queen Anne Ave N | lat=47.634984 | long=-122.357373 | directions= | phone=+1 206-623-7383 | tollfree= | hours=7AM-5PM | price= | image=Seattle, September 7, 2024 - 338.jpg | wikidata=Q130300848 | lastedit=2026-01-03 | content= }} If you're looking for something to balance out all that caffeine as a stimulant, Lower Queen Anne fits the bill. * {{drink | name=Ozzie's | url=http://www.ozziesseattle.com | email= | address=105 W Mercer St | lat=47.62448 | long=-122.35828 | directions= | phone=+1 206-284-4618 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=8AM-2AM daily | price= | content=Karaoke is the name of the game at Ozzie's and is available every night starting at 9PM. }} * {{drink | name=Toulouse Petit Kitchen & Lounge | alt= | url=http://toulousepetit.com/ | email= | address=601 Queen Anne Avenue North | lat=47.62473 | long=-122.3569 | directions=NW corner of Queen Ave N & W Mercer St | phone=+1 206-432-9069 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 8AM-2AM | price= | content=Excellent restaurant and lounge featuring New Orleans-style food and drink that was listed as a 2012 Travelers Choice Awards winner for one of America's best restaurants and one of the best happy hours in the USA by CNBC survey (great beignets). Happy hour every day from 4PM to 6PM and 10PM to 1AM with a breakfast happy hour from Monday to Friday from 8AM to 11AM. }} ==Sleep== There are some business hotels in South Lake Union and along Eastlake Ave. The Seattle Center area hosts several smaller hotels. [[Seattle/Downtown|Downtown]] offers far more options. * {{sleep | name=Comfort Suites Downtown - Seattle Center | url=http://www.comfortsuites-seattle.com | email= | address=601 Roy St | lat=47.62529 | long=-122.34480 | directions= | phone=+1 206-282-2600 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn | url= | email= | address=211 Dexter Ave N | lat=47.62032 | long=-122.34283 | directions= | phone=+1 206-728-8123 | tollfree= | fax=+1 206-728-2779 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Homewood Suites by Hilton Seattle | url=http://www.seattledowntown.homewoodsuites.com | email= | address=206 Western Ave W | lat=47.62024 | long=-122.35963 | directions= | phone=+1 206-281-9393 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=All-suite hotel with views of Elliott Bay, 4 blocks from Seattle Center and the Space Needle, 6 blocks from the Olympic Sculpture Park. }} * {{sleep | name=MarQueen Hotel | url=http://www.marqueen.com | email= | address=600 Queen Anne Ave N | lat=47.62475 | long=-122.35654 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Boutique lodging accommodations. }} * {{sleep | name=The Mediterranean | url= | email= | address=425 Queen Anne Ave N | lat=47.62248 | long=-122.35695 | directions= | phone=+1 206-428-4700 | tollfree=+1-866-525-4700 | fax=+1 206-428-4699 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Maxwell Hotel | url=http://www.themaxwellhotel.com | email= | address=300 Roy St | lat=47.62557 | long=-122.35130 | directions=between Nob Hill and Third Ave | phone= | tollfree=+1-877-298-9728 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Unique dog and earth-friendly lodging with a business center, free parking, and views of the Space Needle. }} *{{sleep | name=Travelodge Seattle Center | url=http://www.travelodgeseattlecenter.com | email= | address=200 6th Ave N | lat=47.62017 | long=-122.34459 | directions= | phone=+1 206-441-7878 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Two blocks east of the Space Needle and monorail terminal, adjacent to Belltown. About a mile's walk (or a few minutes on the monorail) from the downtown core. }} ==Connect== '''[https://www.spl.org/ Seattle Public Library]''' offers open Wi-Fi at all branches, using the SSID '''spl-public'''. Public computers with Internet access and basic office software are available for up to 30 minutes for those without a SPL library card; get a temporary pass from the circulation desk. All services are free. * {{listing | name=Queen Anne Branch | alt= | url=https://www.spl.org/hours-and-locations/queen-anne-branch | email= | address=400 W Garfield St | lat=47.63385 | long=-122.36276 | directions=at 4th Ave W | phone=+1 206-386-4227 | tollfree= | hours=M Tu 1-8PM, W Th Sa 11AM-6PM, Closed F and Su | price= | wikidata=Q69764521 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Magnolia Branch | url=https://www.spl.org/hours-and-locations/magnolia-branch | email= | address=2801 34th Ave W | lat=47.64533 | long=-122.40141 | directions=at W Armour St | phone=+1 206-386-4225 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M Tu 1-8PM, W Th 11AM-6PM, Su noon-5PM, closed F and Sa | price= | content= }} ===By mail=== * {{listing | name=Queen Anne Post Office | alt=US Postal Service | url=https://tools.usps.com/find-location.htm?location=1378608 | email= | address=415 1st Ave N | lat=47.62288 | long=-122.35564 | directions= | phone=+1 206-282-0542 | tollfree=+1-800-275-8777 | fax= | hours=M-F 8:30AM-6PM, Sa 9AM-3PM | price= | lastedit=2018-12-20 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Magnolia Post Office | alt=US Postal Service | url=https://tools.usps.com/find-location.htm?location=1371417 | email= | address=3211 W McGraw St | lat=47.6394 | long=-122.3990 | directions= | phone=+1 206-284-5958 | tollfree=+1-800-275-8777 | fax= | hours=M-F 9AM-1PM & 2-5PM; Sa 9AM-1PM & 2-3PM | price= | content= }} {{IsPartOf|Seattle}} {{geo|47.62455|-122.34360|zoom=14}} {{usabledistrict}} g55akuedc38pxot9t81uummz0hz3oz6 0 32765 5289024 5286111 2026-06-07T09:12:02Z SingyeDzong 2247892 /* Splurge */ Updated listing for Royal Sarovar Portico - Fixed defunked link 5289024 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|ISKCON Temple, Siliguri, West Bengal, India (2010) 1.jpg}} The largest city in northern [[West Bengal]], '''Siliguri''' (Bengali: শিলিগুড়ি ''Śiliguṛi'', Nepali: सिलगड़ी ''Silgaṛī''<!-- all ISO 15919 -->) is a liberal and cosmopolitan city that is known for its vibrant music scene and strong youth culture. Located on the banks of the Mahananda River and the Teesta River at the foothills of the Darjeeling Hills, Siliguri is the third-largest urban agglomeration in West Bengal. It is known as the "Gateway of North-Eastern India" as it connects [[North-Eastern India]] with mainland India, making it a major trading and transportation hub. It borders [[Nepal]] on one side and [[Bangladesh]] on the other. ==Understand== [[File:Tashi Gomang Stupa.jpg|thumb|Tashi Gomang Stupa]] [[File:LL-Q9610 (ben)-Titodutta-শিলিগুড়ি.wav|Bengali pronunciation]] Siliguri (Bengali pronunciation: SHIH-lih-GOO-rih /ʃiliɡuɽi/) has a population of 728,000 (2024 estimate) (around 1,000,000 in the metropolitan area), making it the third-largest city in West Bengal. With massive developments since the turn of the 21st century, the city has grown from a small regional town into one of the most important business centres in Eastern India. Sprawling and boisterous, it is a city whose periphery is dominated by modern condominiums, while the downtown is characterised by sprawling street markets, up-scale shops, and large shopping malls. Due to its position as a commercial hub and centre of learning, the city enjoys a sophistication and range of shopping usually only associated with metro cities. Furthermore, as it has attracted a large number of young Nepalese, Sikkimese, Tibetans, and Bhutanese, it has developed into one of India's most liberal and cosmopolitan cities that is known for its vibrant music scene and strong youth culture. Siliguri is the only city in West Bengal other than [[Kolkata]] to have an international airport and, perhaps due to the high concentration of colleges, institutes and private schools, the city has the highest literacy rates in the state. Traditionally, Siliguri has been known for the four 'T's — tourism, timber, tea and transport — and is the gateway to [[Darjeeling]], [[Sikkim]], [[Bhutan]] and [[North-Eastern India]]. ===Climate=== {{climate chart |Siliguri 1991-2020 |10.7 |22.0 |23.0 |12.8 |24.5 |24.0 |16.1 |29.3 |34.0 |19.5 |30.8 |76.0 |22.1 |29.9 |249.0 |24.0 |29.5 |628.0 |24.6 |29.1 |843.0 |24.6 |29.6 |589.0 |23.5 |29.2 |403.0 |19.7 |28.5 |121.0 |15.2 |26.3 |10.0 |11.8 |23.4 |11.0 |float=right |clear=right |description =Source: [https://en.climate-data.org/asia/india/west-bengal/siliguri-4960/ climate-data.org] }} Siliguri has a warm summer, cool winters and a severe monsoon. In summer, the temperature varies from a minimum of 18-22 °C to a maximum of 26-32 °C. The temperature in summer sometimes exceeds 35 °C. On the other hand, the winter maximum temperature hovers around 20-24 °C, and the minimum drops 6-9 °C. January is the coldest month with an average temperature of 16.1 °C. The minimum temperature in winter season sometimes drops 5 °C or below. On an average, Siliguri gets 3340 mm per year. Winters are mostly dry, with the summers being rainy. About 80% of the annual rainfall is felt between June to September, this period is known as monsoons or rainy season in the season cycle. Heavy showers are often felt in May, June, July, August and September. July is the wettest month (804 mm) and January is the driest month (12 mm). ===Visitor information=== * {{listing | name=Tourism Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=M-4 Bldg, Hill Cart Road | lat=26.72323 | long=88.41732 | directions= | phone=+91 353 2511974, +91 353 2516306 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-26 | content=The staff at the Tourism Centre is very helpful and the centre has a lot of information on North Bengal tourism. You can book a government lodge there before travelling to your favourite destination. }} ==Talk== Bengali, Hindi, Nepali, and English are all widely spoken in Siliguri, but as a major trading hub the city has drawn people from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds, making it common to hear other languages and dialects in the streets and homes. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Bagdogra International Airport | alt={{IATA|IXB}} | url=https://www.aai.aero/en/airports/bagdogra | email= | address=Bagdogra | lat=26.681111 | long=88.328611 | directions={{km|14}} from the city centre | phone=+91 353 269 8431 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2900847 | lastedit=2022-11-08 | content=The airport has links with most major Indian cities: [[Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Bengaluru]], [[Chennai]], Kolkata and [[Guwahati]]. In addition, a number of airlines operate connecting flights from [[Bangkok]], while Druk Air offers twice in a week direct flights to the Thai capital, which begin and terminate in [[Paro]] with a stop here. Taxis are available from the airport to Siliguri (approx ₹500), as well as to Darjeeling, Gangtok, and Phuentsholing. }} ===By train=== ====New Jalpaiguri Junction==== * {{go | name={{station|New Jalpaiguri Junction|city=india|nfr|dhr}} | alt=station code: NJP | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=about 20- to 30-minute ride from the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q11790860 | lastedit=2025-09-07 | content=The busiest railway station in North Bengal with connections to almost all parts of India. }} NJP is served by four Rajdhani Express trains, two Vistadome Express trains, two Humsafar Express trains, four AC Superfast Express trains, a Shatabdi Express train, and a Vande Bharat Express train. There is also a train from [[Bangladesh]], called Mitali Express. NJP also connects the mainstream broad-gauge line with the [[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway|heritage narrow-gauge line]]. NJP has two double-bedded air-conditioned (AC) retiring rooms, six double-bedded non-AC retiring rooms, one three-bedded dormitory and one twelve-bedded dormitory. Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available at this station. It has IRCTC and other private restaurants. There is also a decommissioned train coach that acts as a restaurant, and tea rooms that serve locally grown tea. The tourist office and pre-paid taxi booth are directly opposite the station main entrance. Transport options to city centre: * '''By bus:''' North Bengal State Transport Corporation (NBSTC) operates bus services from NJP to Siliguri city centre. There are private bus options as well. * '''By taxi:''' Ride-hailing services, such as Uber, Rapido and Ola, provide rides from NJP to various parts of the city. Apart from these, numerous private taxi operators provide pre-paid and post-paid taxi services to the city. ====Other stations==== * {{go | name={{station|Siliguri Junction|city=india|nfr|dhr}} | alt=station code: SGUJ | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7515061 | lastedit=2022-10-25 | content=Although mostly servicing local routes, Siliguri Junction also has a few long-distance trains, including the Mahananda Express (from [[New Delhi railway station|New Delhi]]) and the Kanchankanya Express (from [[Sealdah railway station|Sealdah]]). Another interchange between broad-gauge and narrow-gauge lines. The station has a pleasant tea room serving locally grown tea just outside the main entrance. }} * {{go | name={{station|Siliguri Town|city=india|nfr|dhr}} | alt=station code: SGUT | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7515065 | lastedit=2022-12-09 | content= }} ===By bus=== * {{go | name=Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hill Cart Road, Pradhan Nagar | lat=26.7252 | long=88.4148 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q55634947 | lastedit=2022-10-25 | content= }} *'''[[Dhaka]]:''' Under a joint understanding between Indian and Bangladeshi transport authority, there are regular bus services from [[Dhaka]], capital of [[Bangladesh]]. BRTC (Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation) buses leave Dhaka every night at 8PM and reach India-Bangladesh border at Changrabanda post at early morning. These buses will not cross the border and the passengers have to clear customs, walk a few hundred yards to cross the border and board the waiting Indian buses for another three-hour ride to Siliguri. The buses are air conditioned, very comfortable and depart on time. One-way fare from Dhaka to Siliguri is between US$20-25, depending on conversion rates. *'''[[Kathmandu]]:''' Greenline operates a daily overnight A/C Volvo bus service from Kathmandu (Swayambhu Bus Stand) to Siliguri (Tenzing Norgay Bus Station). Departs at 3PM, arriving at 8:30AM. ₹2,000. The Nepal-Indian border at Siliguri, which was only open to Bhutanese, Indian, and Nepalese passport holders since the pandemic, is now open to all passport holders with valid visas. (updated May 2025) *'''[[Kolkata]]:''' The well-known and comfortable Siliguri Rocket, run by the North Bengal State Transport Corporation (NBSTC), leaves Kolkata at 8PM arriving Siliguri at 8AM (₹245). Some of the private bus lines also ply the route. The 'Royal Cruiser' Volvo buses leaves Kolkata at 8PM arriving Siliguri at 9AM (₹745 AC/₹325 non-AC). *'''[[Phuentsholing]]:''' Khorlo/Dophu Transport (+975 77870211). Daily: 7:30AM (Eicher bus), 8AM (Coaster bus) 3PM (Coaster bus) - Nu350 - a four-hour journey. Unlike other out-of-town bus services, the one from Phuentsholing does not terminate at Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus, but at a bus stand opposite Golden Plaza on Burdwan Road (behind Air View More) (updated June 2026) ==Get around== {{mapframe|26.76|88.36|zoom=11}} Moving in and around Siliguri is cheap. There are electric rickshaws (locally known as ''totos''), shared vans, an efficient public bus service, and rental cars. App-based car services are also available on Yatri Saathi, Rapido (also bikes) and Uber. Shared e-rickshaws and vans run on established routes: Standard fare: ₹20 per person (₹10 for short routes, ₹30 for long ones) - as of 2025. The core areas can be covered on foot and is very safe, even after dark. ==See== === Monasteries === *{{see | name=Buddha Mundir Monastery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Buddha Mundir Road, Salbari | lat=26.7662232 | long=88.4442565 | directions=Salibari | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A monastery established by the Nyingma yogi, Chatral Sangye Dorji Rinpoche }} * {{See|name=Ewan (Nupchen Namchak) Monastery|alt=Toribari Gompa|url=https://ewamindia.org/|email=|address=Junglee Mohal, Toribari Village, Distt, Bhaktinagar|lat=26.8024|long=88.4336|directions=behind Bengal Safari P.O P.S|phone=+91 353 259 0264|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2019-08-30|content=A large Buddhist monastery in the Nyingma tradition}} * '''Kali Mandir,''' Sevoke. (''On Siliguri-Darjeeling Road, above Coronation Bridge''). Temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali. Shrine atop a steep flight of stairs. Views over Coronation Bridge and Teesta River. * {{see | name=Khordong Byangter Monastery | alt= | url=http://khordong-byangter.blogspot.tw/ | email= | address=Dhansara | lat=26.6668681 | long=88.3617536 | directions=on road to Darjeeling, near NJP Station | phone=+91 99330 62222 or +91 98320 49416 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A monastery is in the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Accommodation available at the compound. }} * {{see | name=Iskcon Temple | alt= | url=https://www.iskconsiliguri.com/ | email= | address=Iskcon Road, Ward 41, Haidar Par | lat=26.7291316 | long=88.4083123 | directions= | phone=+91 92316 84759 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), also known as Hare Krishna Movement, manages the ISCKON temple. It houses many beautiful idols of Advaita Acharya, Lord Narasimha, Lord Chaitanya and many more. }} * {{see | name=Sed-Gyued Institute of Buddhist Studies |alt=Salugara Gompa (Monastery)| url= | email= | address=Salugara | lat= 26.7631| long= 88.4475| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=15 - 20 minutes from the downtown | price= |lastedit=2017-03-30| content=Inaugurated by the Dalai Lama in 1999, and belongs to the Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. The compound includes a 100-foot '''Tashi Gomang Stupa'''. }} * {{see | name=Triratna Monastery |alt=| url= | email= | address=Salbari | lat= 26.7631| long= 88.4475| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=15 - 20 minutes' drive from downtown | price= |lastedit=2018-03-03| content= A monastery in the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism }} ===Parks=== *{{see | name=Bengal Safari Park | alt=North Bengal Wild Animal Park | url= https://www.northbengalwildanimalspark.in/| email=info@northbengalwildanimalspark.in | address=5 Mile, Salugara | lat=| long= | directions= | phone=+91-7047312620 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹200 (half hour), ₹400 (one hour) | content=Tigers, leopards, elephants, and herbivorous. Elephant rides. Forest park setting. }} * {{see | name=Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary | alt= | url=http://wbsfda.org/ | email=wbsfdaecotourism@gmail.com | address= | lat=26.87361 | long=88.43889 | directions= | phone=+91 83370 66882 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 6AM–4:30PM (Tuesday closed) | price= | wikidata=Q15243705 | lastedit=2022-11-29 | content=Forested reserve area with a wildlife park, birdwatching towers and an elephant migration area. }} *{{see | name=Science City | alt= | url= | email= | address=Matigara | lat=26.7256 | long=88.3852 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The campus has a museum, a planetarium and an Interpretation Centre that displays various type of flora. }} *{{see | name=Surya Sen Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Janta Nagar | lat=26.7214 | long=88.4232 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 3-7PM | price= | lastedit=2017-10-16 | content=A river runs along this park with kids’ rides, play equipment, shade trees and a miniature train. It also hosts many alternative energy exhibitions and picnic areas. }} ==Do== There are many places in Siliguri to visit and spend some quality time. You can tour the city yourself by renting a bike or a car. There are many places to watch movies. You can also visit tea estates for a tour where you can see the serene and spacious tea farms in and around the city. There are many exhibitions and sport events around the city. [[File:Siliguri011.jpg|thumb|Sacred objects on sale]] * {{do | name= Dreamland Amusement Park| alt= | url= https://www.facebook.com/dreamlandslg | email= dreamland.slg@gmail.com | address= Ghoshpukur Canal Road, Fulbari | lat= 26.7091| long= 88.3830| directions= | phone= +91 97328 51000| tollfree= | fax= | hours= 10AM-7PM| price= | content= An amusement and theme park. }} * {{do | name=Savin Kingdom | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/savinkingdom2017/| email=gmsavinkingdom@gmail.com | address= Darjeeling More| lat=26.7396 | long=88.4031 | directions= | phone=+91 353 251 4228| tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 10:30AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2016-10-19 | content=Dagapur (near Darjeeling More). An amusement and water park among tea plantations. }} ==Buy== [[File:Vega Circle.jpg|thumb|Vega Circle Mall]] Silguri sells its wares on three streets: Hill Cart Road, Bidhan Road and Sevoke Road. The former offers more traditional stores and is home to many of the city's hotels, Sevoke is home to several upscale shopping malls and is the centre of the city's banking, while Bidhan Road is primarily known for the street markets that span out from the thoroughfare. As the centre of a tea-growing area, Siliguri is an excellent place to pick up some Darjeeling and other brands of the leaf. ===Books=== * '''Crossword Book Stores,''' City Centre and Vega Circle Mall. Commercial bookstores with a focus on fiction. Selection of stationary. ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=Fab India | alt= | url=https://www.fabindia.com/ | email=fabindia.vegacircle@gmail.com | address=Times Square Building, Sevoke Road and City Centre Mall | lat=26.7527 | long=88.4387 | directions= | phone=+91 03534503206 (Times Square Building), +91 353 257 6232 (City Centre) | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2018-01-26 | content=Gifts and clothing store. }} * {{buy | name=Shree Buddha Handicrafts | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Shree-Buddha-Handicrafts-107752339324654/ | email= | address= Sevoke Road, Panitanki| lat= 26.7221| long= 88.4269| directions= | phone=+91 97333 29274 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-01-26 | content= A wholesaler and order supplier of Buddhist ritual handicrafts and other religious items. }} * {{buy | name=Tanias Collection | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bidhan Market | lat= 26.7187| long= 88.4254| directions= | phone=+91 98320 34561 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-01-26 | content=An eclectic mix of handcrafts, including religious statues. }} * '''Tashi Takgye,''' Metro Heights, Sevoke Road (''near check pos''t). Buddha statues. Malas. Buddhist ritual objects. ===Tea=== *{{buy|name=Chai Chun|alt=|url=https://www.chaichuntea.com/|email=ch6@chaichun.in|address=GF, Planet Mall, Sevoke Road|directions=diagonally across from Cosmos|lat=26.7922|long=88.4229|phone=+91 93827 02318|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-01-30|content=A modern shop selling traditional Indian teas, flavoured teas, Indian oolong, and tea-making equipment and accessories.}} *{{buy|name=The Tea Cottage|alt=|url=https://theteacottage.business.site/|email=|address=Shivmandir, Military Road|directions=|lat=26.7222|long=88.3583|phone=+91 94345 54741|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-01-11|content=Excellent selection of Darjeeling and Assam teas at retail and wholesale prices.}} *{{buy|name=Siliguri Tea Auction Committee|alt=|url=http://www.siliguriteaauction.com/|email=info@siliguriteaauction.com|address=Mallaguri, Pradhan Nagar|directions=|lat=26.7351|long=88.4107|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=Tu-Sa 9AM–5PM |price=|lastedit=2018-01-11|content=A place to make bulk purchases of Darjeeling and other locally grown teas.}} ===Malls=== [[File:Big-Baazar-Siliguri-1.JPG|thumb|Cosmos Mall]] * {{buy | name=City Centre | alt= The Uttorayon Township| url=http://siliguri.citycentremalls.in/ | email= | address= Matigara, NH-31| lat= 26.7246| long= 88.3950| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-01-21 | content=A huge mall offering major brands, international chain eateries, and live music events. }} * {{buy | name=City Mall | alt= | url=| email= | address= Service Road, Ward 13, Punjabi Para| lat= 26.7252| long= 88.4293| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-01-21 | content=Unassuming mall featuring local shops selling traditional clothing & jewelry, plus fast food. }} * {{buy | name=Cosmos Mall | alt= | url=http://www.cosmossiliguri.com/ | email=kamlesh.sahu@fmnl.in | address=Sevoke Road | lat= 26.7405| long= 88.4345| directions= | phone= +91 353 254 5143| tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 10AM–10PM | price= | lastedit=2017-01-21 | content=Mall with a Big Bazaar store, plus fashion, cosmetics & home retailers, eateries & frequent events. }} * {{Buy|name=ML Acropolis Mall | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/mlacropolissiliguri/|address=Sevoke Road|directions=Opp Anandaloke Hospital|lastedit=2022-11-20|content=A large mall featuring high-end commercial outlets, pub with live music; and movie complex.}} *{{Buy|name=Planet Mall |url=https://www.facebook.com/planetslg/ |address=Sevoke Road |lat=26.7397|long=88.4356|directions=vertically opposite Cosmos Mall |lastedit=2022-01-09 |content=A modern complex filled with pubs, restaurant, and cafes. A very happening place for the under 40s.}} * {{buy | name=Vega Circle Mall | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/VegaCircleSiliguri/ | email=vega@vegacircle.com | address= Nimbu Basti| lat= 26.7523| long= 88.4390| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 10:30AM–9PM | price= | lastedit=2025-05-19 | content=Chic and refined. Home to an INOX movie theatre, hotel, and international stores, including Hamleys, H&M, and Marks and Spencers. }} ===Street markets=== *{{buy | name=Bidhan Market | alt= | url= | email= | address= Ward 11, Hakim Para| directions= near the Kanchenjunga Stadium | lat= 26.7174| long=88.4253| phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily noon–9PM| price= |lastedit=2016-10-19| content= The oldest and largest street market in Siliguri, Bidhan Market meanders along streets and alleys and is particularly bustling and atmospheric at night. }} *{{buy | name=Hong Kong Market | alt= | url= | email= | address= 6, Satyajit Roy Colony Road, Ward 41, Don Bosco Colony| directions= | lat= 26.7156| long= 88.4252| phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Tu-Su 9:30AM–9:30PM | price= |lastedit=2016-10-19| content=Lively, long-standing market for bargain clothing, electronics & cosmetics, plus food vendors. However, beware of duplicate items. Even items made in Delhi stamped with "Made in China" are being sold here. The actual price of the item will be 1/2 or 1/3rd of the price the shopkeeper asks. }} *{{buy | name=Seth Srilal Market | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/SethSrilalMarket/ | email= | address= Ward 11, Hakim Para| directions= | lat= 26.7161| long= 88.4235| phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily noon–9PM| price= |lastedit=2016-10-19| content=Buzzing market in the heart of the city, where you might get the best deals. Also famous for its Momo Gali (Momo Street). }} ==Eat== [[File:Vega Circle, Salugara.jpg|thumb|Vega Circle, Salugara]] Due to the large number of Nepalese and Tibetans living in Siliguri, the city offers an excellent selection of authentic Tibetan and Nepali delicacies. In addition, there are also several good quality restaurants specializing in Western and Chinese cuisine as well as a considerable number of US fast food outlets. === Budget === *{{Eat|name=Khana Khajana|address=Hill Cart Road, Pradhan Nagar|directions=Opp Tenzing Norgay Bus Station, next to Hotel Mountain View|phone=+91 353 251 7516|url=https://m.facebook.com/p/Khana-Khajana-100068031350892/|content=Northern and Southern Indian Indian fast food. Outdoor seating at night.. Average food. Quick service. Convenient for Tenzing Norgay Bus Station and Siliguri Jn.}} * {{eat | name=Momo Gali | alt= | url= | email= | address=Seth Srilal Market | lat= 26.7157| long= 88.4237| directions=near Margaret School, within easy walking distance of Siliguri Bus Stand | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 10AM-10PM| price= |lastedit=2016-10-19| content=A street of restaurants and stalls selling fantastic momos. }} === Mid-range === * {{eat | name=Badshah Biryani Hut | alt= | url= | email= | address=Opposite Kanchenjunga Stadium, Khudiram Pally Road, Ward 11, Hakim Para | lat= 26.7144| long= 88.4258| directions= | phone= +91 81013 47809| tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily noon–10:30PM | price= | content=Excellent Biriyani along with several other cuisines. }} * {{eat | name=Bedween Restaurant | alt= | url= https://www.swiggy.com/restaurants/bedween-restaurant-janta-nagar-siliguri-391124| email= | address=Bidhan Market, Old Bus Stand | lat= 26.7175| long= 88.42611| directions= | phone=+91 98323 71558| tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 10AM–10:30PM | price= | content=Known for its delicious Biryani. }} * {{eat | name=Bhojohari Manna | alt=Hotel Golden Moments | url=http://bhojohorimanna.com/siliguri-menu.html | email= | address=143 Hill Cart Road | lat= 26.71180| long= 88.4255| directions= | phone= +91 94342 10011| tollfree= | hours= Daily noon–10PM | price= | content=Bengali cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Cinderella Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.cindrellahotels.com/ | email= | address=3rd Mile, Sevoke Road | lat= 26.7557| long= 88.4422| directions= | phone=+91 353 254 4130, +91 35325 47136 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content='''Amrapali''' - Vegetarian multi-cuisine restaurant, '''Recoil''' - Bar, '''Sizzler''' - discotheque for private parties, '''Patio''' - Roof-top restaurant-cum-bar. }} * {{eat | name= Havelli | alt= | url= https://www.swiggy.com/restaurants/haveli-khalpara-ward-6-siliguri-150407| email= | address= Hill Cart Road | lat= 26.7138| long= 88.4238| directions= | phone= +91 353 253 5013| tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 11AM–11PM | price= | content= An excellent restaurant for fish and mutton items. Also offers high standard Chinese and continental dishes. Cool decor. }} * {{eat | name= Hi Spirits Cafe and Pub| alt= | url= https://www.swiggy.com/restaurants/haveli-khalpara-ward-6-siliguri-150407| email= | address= 2nd floor City Centre, Uttorayon| lat= 26.7247| long= 88.3951| directions= | phone= +91 98320 59826| tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily noon–11PM | price= | content= Low-key bar & restaurant in an unpretentious, no-frills ambience with Lebanese, Mexican, Chinese and Tibetan dishes cooked to a very high standard and live music }} * {{Eat|name=Indian Pagoda|url=https://www.swiggy.com/restaurants/indian-pagoda-chinese-restaurant-and-bar-sevoke-road-haidar-para-siliguri-150085|address=Top Plaza, Ground Floor, Sevoke Road|lat=26.7287|long=88.4307|hours=Daily 10am–11pm|lastedit=2022-01-09|content=Contemporary space serving a typical menu of popular Indianised Chinese dishes.}} * {{eat | name=Kalpana Hotel Bengali Cuisines | alt= | url= | email= | address= Bidhan Market| lat= 26.7168| long= 88.4253| directions=Near Siliguri Town railway station | phone= +91 76796 38292| tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 10AM–9PM | price= | content=Bengali cuisine }} * {{eat | name=Kalpatru Pice Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Panitanki More, Sevoke Road, Ashram Para, Hakim Para| lat= 26.7203| long= 88.4269| directions= | phone=+91 353 264 3479 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 10AM–10:30PM | price= | content=Bengali cuisine }} * {{eat | name=Lama by Yeti | address= 3F Vega Circle Mall, Sevoke Road |content= Authentic Bhutanese, Nepalese, and Tibetan cuisine. Simple and elegant interior| hours= Su-F: Noon-11:45PM, Sa: Noon-1:45AM }} * {{eat | name=Little Tokyo | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Littletokyo.Siliguri/ | email=little.tokyo.siliguri@gmail.com | address=3F, Planet Mall, Sevoke Road| lat=26.7397|long=88.4355| directions= | phone=+91 96418 63365| tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily Noon–11PM | price=| content=Authentic Vietnamese, Japanese, Thai, and Korean Food. Excellent sushi and mochi ice-cream. Stylish, East Asian themed interior. }} * {{eat | name=Marina's Motel | alt= | url= http://www.marinasmotel.com/| email=reservationmarinas@gmail.com | address=Bihar More, Bagdogra | lat= 26.6989| long= 88.3164| directions= | phone=+91 96097 43399 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-01-08 | content=A serene motel in a colonial-style building with a furnished terrace and garden. Serves northern Indian and Chinese cuisine. Private dining available. }} * {{eat | name=Monarch Restaurant | url= https://www.zomato.com/siliguri/monarch-restaurant-janta-nagar/menu| email= | address=10 Sevoke Road | lat= 26.7165| long= 88.4231| directions= | phone = +91 98320 62155 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 8AM–11:30PM | price= | content=Famous for Indian, Tandoori and Chinese dishes. }} * {{eat | name=New Zaika Biryani House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hill Cart Road | lat= 26.7151| long= 88.4229| directions= | phone= +91 94346 89708 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 9AM–11:15PM | price= | content=Mughlai dishes }} *{{eat | name=Punjabi Kadhai | alt= | url=http://www.punjabikadhai.in | email=info@punjabikadhai.in | address=Sidhi Arcade, 2nd Mile, Sevoke Road | lat= 26.7306| long= 88.43093| directions= | phone=+91 98326 45678 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 11AM–11:11PM | price= | content=Biryani, kebabs & other North Indian standards served in a casual, family-friendly rooftop setting. }} * {{eat | name=Sagar Family Restaurant| alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/SagarFamilyRestaurant/ | email=care@sagarfamilyslg.com | address=GF., Spacetown Appts, Check Post, 2nd Mile, Sevoke Road | lat= 26.7477| long= 88.4382| directions= | phone=+91 98320 77344 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily: 2PM - 1O:45PM| price= |lastedit=2025-05-26| content=Pure vegetarian. Specializes in North Indian cuisine. South Indian and Chinese meals available. Large, modern interior. Very clean. Welcoming and fast service. Excellent food. }} * {{eat | name=Sartaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=110/156, Hill Cart Road| lat= 26.7133| long= 88.4242| directions= | phone=+91 94325 16825| tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 10AM–10:45PM | price= | content=Good food, good ambience }} * {{eat | name=Steamy Moktu | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/SteamyMoktu/ | email=steamymoktusiliguri@gmail.com | address=1F Planet Mall, Sevoke Road | lat=26.7397|long=88.4355| directions= | phone=+91 86950 86958 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily noon–10PM | price= |lastedit=2018-04-19| content=Asian fusion restaurant, specializing in Thai and Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Tai Wah Restaurant | alt= | url= https://taiwah-restaurant.business.site/| email= | address=2F. Sri Bhavan building, Hill Cart Road | lat= 26.7152| long= 88.4228| directions=Near Sevoke More. In dark alley opp Hotel Bidhan Plaza. | phone=+91 353 243 6132 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily 11AM–10PM | price= |lastedit=2025-05-24| content=With a history dating from 1990, Taiwah is Siliguri’s oldest Chinese restaurant. Authentic Chinese cuisine and fusion dishes. Homey, low-key ambience. }} * {{eat | name=The Palms | alt=Sinclairs | url=https://www.sinclairshotels.com/siliguri | email=siliguri@sinclairshotels.com | address= Ward 46, Pradhan Nagar| lat= 26.7345| long= 88.4109| directions= | phone=+91 97334 62777 | tollfree= 1800 120 267000 | hours=7:30AM to 11PM | price= | content=Also: O3 lounge bar, 5-10:30PM. }} * {{eat | name= Taste of Sikkim| alt= | url= https://www.swiggy.com/restaurants/taste-of-sikkim-pradhan-nagar-champasari-siliguri-151608| email= | address= 3rd Mile, Sevoke Road, Salugara Bazar, Salugara | lat= 26.7350| long= 88.4105| directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= Daily 10AM–10PM | price= | content= Simple and authentic Tibetan cuisine }} * {{eat | name= Viramma| alt= | url= https://viramma.com/siliguri/| email= | address= Viramma Resort, Dagapur | lat= 26.7446| long= 88.4016| directions= | phone= +91 353 251 2222| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= A dining area in a resort. }} === Splurge === *{{Eat|name=G.O.A.T.|url=https://www.facebook.com/goatsiliguri/|address=4F, Times Square, Sevoke Road|phone=+91 91444 08801|content=Run by Indian football legend, Baichung Bhutia. Elevated dining and cocktails. Elegant interior. Roof top dining and bar. Live music.}} *{{eat | name=Tea Pot | alt= | url=https://www.mayfairhotels.com/tea-resort-siliguri/dining/tea-pot.html | email= | address=Mayfair Resort, New Chumta Tea Garden, Sevoke Road, Sukna | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 3536660101 | tollfree= | hours=Daily: 12:30-15:30 and 19:00-22:30 | price= | content=A high standard multi-cuisine restaurant. Classic European interior. Excellent service. }} ==Drink== === Coffee === As Siliguri is at the heart of a tea-growing area, it has traditionally been associated with tea. However, following the international trend, coffee culture has made inroads in the city and there are now numerous branches of cafe chains as well as a large number of independent coffee shops in and around Siliguri, and the quality of the coffee served is generally very good. Due to the large number of cafes in Siliguri, only those with a distinct character are listed here. * '''Bake Walk,''' GF. Planet Mall, Sevoke Road. Warm and inviting interior. Excellent pastries and coffee. Pottery and unusual items, like organic body scrubs and bamboo toothbrushes, on sale. Serves light vegetarian meals, such as pasta, waffles, and toast-based dishes. 11AM-9PM. * {{Drink|name=Barista|alt=|url=http://barista.co.in/|email=information@barista.co.in|address=Vega Circle Mall and City Centre|lat=26.7527|long=88.4390|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=10AM-10PM daily|price=|lastedit=2021-02-07|content=A cafe chain. The City Centre branch is a proper cafe, whereas the Vega Circle one is open plan}} * {{Drink|name=Berlin Kaffeehaus|alt=|url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Berlin-Kaffeehaus/100057359263573/|email=|address=City Centre Mall|directions=near Pizza Hut|phone=+91 98000 45601|hours=|price=|lat=|long=|lastedit=|content=An open and light cafe. Outdoor seating, Delicious pastries and cakes. Excellent coffee.|tollfree=|fax=}} *{{drink | name=Brewberry Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.sunhillportico.com/dining/cafe-brewberry | email= | address=Nazrul Sarani, Ashram Para, Hakim Para | lat= | long= | directions=Ten minute walk from PaniTanki More | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Large space. Restaurant-style design. Excellent fusion cuisine. Open 24 hours. }} *{{drink|name=Café Coffee Day|alt=|url=https://www.cafecoffeeday.com/store-locator/west-bengal/siliguri/sevoke-road/inside-cosmos-mall|email=customercare@cafecoffeeday.com|address=Cosmos Mall, Sevoke Road|lat= 26.7390|long=88.4343|directions=|phone=+91 353 320 1907|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2022-01-11|content=A coffee chain, selling affordable coffee and pasties. Open plan seating}} * {{drink | name=Cafe Karmaa Diaries | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/p/Cafe-Karmaa-Diaries-61559348467185/| email= | address= Sidhi Arcade Building, Sevoke Road, Dasrath Pally, Bhanu Nagar| lat=| long= directions=near Anandaloke Nursing Home | phone=+91 98002 62678 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M 12:30PM-midnight, Tu-Su noon-midnight | price= | lastedit=2018-01-27 | content=Touted as Siliguri's first mindfulness cafe. Buddhist quotes on walls, Excellent international cuisine. Coffee. Restaurant-style setting. Glass roof. Wish-fulfilling tree}} *{{drink | name=Dakini Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/p/Dakini-Cafe-100063973245419/ | email= | address=BSF Road, Salugara | lat= | long= | directions=heading towards Coronation Bridge on Sevoke Road, cafe is an alley on the right, just after Tashi Gomang Stupa | phone=+91 98325 04696 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 11:30AM-9:30PM, Su 11:30AM-8:30PM | price= | content=A cool, open cafe with brick walls, plants, wooden floors, and various Tibetan Buddhist art and symbols. Great coffee. Excellent Italian cuisine. }} *{{drink|name=Ovenly|alt=|url=https://www.facebook.com/ovenly.slg/|email=|address=Swamiji More, Nazrul Sarani, Ashrampara|lat=26.7185|long=88.43560|directions=|phone=+91 70014 45897|tollfree=|fax=|hours=Noon to midnight|price=|lastedit=2018-11-03|content=A small bakery-cafe specializing in custom-made cakes and pastries.}} *{{Drink|name=Starbucks|address=Vega Circle Mall, City Centre Mall.|content=From Seattle to Siliguri the same interior design and coffee.}} *{{Drink|name=The April|url=https://www.facebook.com/p/The-April-61572372216292/|address=Debi Chaudhurani Road, Salugara|directions=near Rose Valley appartment|phone=+91 86538 86811|hours=11:00-21:00 |lastedit=2026-02-15|content=A large cafe in a single story building. Outdoor and indoor seating. Modern and chic. Bright. Lots of plants. Excellent coffee. Good cafe-style means. Small selection of books.}} * {{drink|name=The Coffee Shop|alt=|url=https://www.facebook.com/TheCoffeeShopSiliguri/|email=|address=3F Vega Circle Mall, Salugara.|lat=26.7524|long=88.4385|directions=|phone=+91 89727 72026|tollfree=|fax=|hours=10AM-10PM|price=|lastedit=2018-08-22|content=An open plan cafe with large screens showing sport events. Espresso-based coffees. Pastries. Specialises in Italian food.}} === Tea === * {{drink | name=Netaji Cabin | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Netaji-Cabin/268822163168864 | email= | address=Bidhan Market| lat= 26.7167| long= 88.4253| directions= | phone=+91 94342 47564 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6AM-9:15PM | price= | lastedit=2022-01-11 | content=A traditional tea store with great breakfast menu. }} === Alcohol === [[File:Outside wall of pub on Sevoke Road.jpg|thumb|Outside wall of pub on Sevoke Road|300x300px]] With a young, educated, and liberal population, Siliguri enjoys a vibrant and lively pub scene. Planet Mall is the city's main watering hole, and there are a number of pubs and cafes throughout the mall * {{Drink|name=O3|alt=Sinclairs lounge|url=http://www.sinclairshotels.com/siliguri|email=siliguri@sinclairshotels.com|address=Ward 46, Pradhan Nagar|lat=26.7652|long=88.4097|phone=+91 97334 62777|tollfree=1800 120 267000|hours=7:30AM to 10:30PM|lastedit=2022-01-11|content=Worth checking out for a nice evening drink and snacks.}} *{{drink|name=Open House Cafe|alt=|url=https://facebook.com/OpenHouseSiliguri/|email=|address=3rd Floor, Infinity Square, Sevoke Road|lat=26.7413|long=88.4351|directions=|phone=+91 96096 01818|tollfree=|fax=|hours=noon-11PM|price=|lastedit=2022-01-11|content=Cocktails & global fast food are served in this casual resto-bar with live music.}} *{{drink | name=Novus Tanzanite - Bar & Discotheque| alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/TanzaniteSiliguri | email= | address=3F. Central Park Building, Sevoke Road, 2nd Mile | lat= 26.7405| long= 88.4350| directions=Ahead of Cosmos Mall, before PC Mitral Bus Stand | phone=+91 70290 70290 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-11:55PM | price= | lastedit=2017-10-06 | content=Disco. Bar and restaurant. Sophisticated, urban décor. Good food.}} *{{Drink|name=The Tribe Bar and Grill|alt=The Tribe|url=https://www.facebook.com/thetribebyhispirits/|address=3F. Planet Mall, Sevoke Road|lat=26.7396|long=88.4362|phone=+91 77976 66269|hours=Weekdays: 12-11:30PM, Weekends: 12:30PM-2AM|content=Multi-cuisine club. Live Music. Atmospheric and elegant interior. Popular with millennial professionals.}} *{{drink|name=Worth The Hype|alt=|url=https://worth-the-hype.business.site/|email=|address=B29, Planet Mall, Sevoke Road|lat=26.7396|long=88.4362|directions=opp North City|phone=+91 74070 45000|tollfree=|fax=|hours=noon–11:15PM |price=|lastedit=2018-12-11|content=Cafe and pub with chic interior, good selection of drinks, coffee and meals}} *{{drink|name=Zorb Discotheque and Lounge|alt=|url=https://www.facebook.com/ZORBIndia/|email=salujaresidency.siliguri@gmail.com|address=Saluja Residency, Level-1, Hill Cart Road|lat=26.7156|long=88.4237|directions=|phone=+91 98000 90100|tollfree=|fax=|hours=11AM-11PM|price=|lastedit=2017-11-15|content=Dance and night club, lounge, hookah lounge}} ==Sleep== If you are using Siliguri as an overnight halt, you might consider your hotel options based on the convenience of traveling to your next destination. Bagdogra, Matigara and Darjeeling More areas are convenient for Darjeeling, Kurseong (route 110), and the airport (route 327), while Salugara, 2nd or 3rd mile Sevoke Road addresses are good for Kalimpong, Gangtok and Bhutan (route 10). === Backpacker hostels === *{{Sleep|name=Atathi Niwas Guesthouse for Backpackers and Travellers|address=Siliguri Junction, Old Matigara Road|directions=Off Hill Cart Road, A 30 second walk from Siliguri Junction.|phone=+91 81013 77292|content=Simple singe/double rooms. Basic facilities. Very clean. Friendly and warm service. Convenient for Siliguri Jn Station and Tenzin Norgay Bus Station. A/C and non-A/C rooms. Free WiFi.}} *{{sleep | name=Backpackers Bunkhouse | alt= | url=https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOh4rqBE7xy/ | email= | address=Green Park, Shastri Nagar, Zila Parishad Road, Sevoke Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 98323 10956 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-02-17 | content=Centrally located. Clean and spacious. Bunk bed in mixed room. Private double bed rooms. Balcony. Free WIFI. }} *{{Sleep|name=Backpacker Homestay|address=154 Hill Cart Road, Hasmi Chawk/Venus More.|directions=Behind "Jio Store" Building.|content=Small hostel. Basic facilities. Centrally located. Single, twin, and dormitory rooms. Free WIFI.}} === Budget === * {{sleep | name=Dakini House | alt= | url= | email= | address=BSF Road, Salugara | lat= | long= | directions=In lane across from Tashi Gomang Stupa AKA Salugara Chorten | phone=+44 91 98325 04696 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-02-23 | content=An apartment-guesthouse above cafe. Clean, modern, and chic. Convenient for transport, shops, and restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Dewan's Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bhaktinagar| lat= 26.6853| long= 88.4443| directions= | phone =+91 353 269 1452 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= A simple hotel outside New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Station. After exiting station, turn into first alley on right (adjacent to the taxi parking lot). The hotel is at the end of the alley. }} * {{sleep | name=Himalayan Foothills Homestay | alt= | url=https://himalayan-foothills-homestay.business.site/ | email=himalayanfoothillshomestay@gmail.com | address=Kharagsingh Road, Shivmandir | lat= 26.7178| long= 88.3553| directions= | phone=+91 94759 08908, +91 89180 79640, +91 91265 88308 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-05 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Golden Moments | alt= | url=http://www.hotelgoldenmoments.com/ | email= hotelgoldenmoments@gmail.com | address=143 Hill Cart Road | lat= 26.7117| long= 88.4255| directions= | phone=+91 353 253 5825, +91 92336 56407, +91 94340 07001 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Non-AC double room: ₹753-2249, AC double room: ₹942-2698 | content= }} *{{Sleep|name=Hotel Mountain View|address=Hill Cart Road, Pradhan Nagar,|directions=Opposite Tenzing Norgay Bus Station|phone=+91 97328 54000|email=hmountview@gmail.com|url=https://www.facebook.com/MountViewSiliguri/|price=₹1,500-1,800|lastedit=2024-02-13|content=Budget hotel. Average service. Small but adequate rooms. Convenient for Tenzing Norgay Bus Station and Siliguri Jn.}} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Ranjit | alt= | url= | email= | address=44, Hill Cart Road, Mahanandapara | lat= 26.7134| long= 88.4240| directions= | phone=+91 353 243 1680, +91 353 252 4053 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Nine Ten Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= Navin Sen Circle, Sevoke Road| lat= 26.7194 | long= 88.4247 | directions= | phone= +91 353 2543539| tollfree= | fax= | price= up to ₹1,000| checkin= | checkout= noon | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Norbulingka Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bazaar, Ward 42, Salugara | lat= | long= | directions=In alley leading from Tashi Gomang Stupa AKA Salugara Chorten| phone= | tollfree=| checkin= | checkout= | price=| lastedit=2026-02-23 | content=In a side alley. Basic, but clean facilities. Friendly staff. Close to restaurants and cafes. }} * {{sleep | name=Sunakhari Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 26.7271| long= 88.4156| directions=cross Hill Cart Road, turn left, walk one block to the Hotel Heritage, turn right at this hotel; walk one block; Sunakhari Lodge is on the corner | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-03-24 | content=Sunakhari Lodge has free Wi-Fi. Singles with shared bathroom start at ₹400, ₹500 with attached bathroom (March 2019). It is less than a ten-minute walk from the Siliguri Junction train station (not the New Jalpaiguri train station). }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Hotel Central Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 26.7321| long= 88.4110 | directions= | phone = +91 353 251 6119 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Hill Cart Road, Pradham Nagar. Located about five minute taxi ride from main bus station. Clean and acceptable facilities. ₹650 non A/C to ₹3,500 for suite. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Vinayak | alt= | url= | email= | address=35, Hill Cart Road | lat= 26.7291| long= 88.4143| directions= | phone=+91 353 243 1130, +91 353 243 3154 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon| checkout= 11AM | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Marina's Motel| alt= | url= https://www.marinasmotel.com/| email=reservationmarinas@gmail.com | address= Bihar More, Bagdogra| directions = | lat= 26.6987| long= 88.3164 | phone= +91 96097 43399| tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= A serene motel in a colonial-style building with a furnished terrace and garden. Serves northern Indian and Chinese cuisine. An 8-10 minute drive from the airport. }} * {{sleep | name=Mainak Tourism Property | alt=Mainak Tourist Lodge | url= | email= | address= Hill Cart Road, Pradhan Nagar | lat= 26.7311| long= 88.4127 | directions= | phone =+91 353 251 2859 | tollfree= | fax= | price= Standard: single/double ₹2,400-2,800 | checkin= | checkout= |lastedit=2022-11-16| content=Run by West Bengal Tourism. Basic restaurant, but modern and smart rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Sawasstika Eco Resort | alt= | url=http://sawasstikaecoresort.com/index.php | email= | address=Fulbari hat, Changrabandha Village, Fulbari | lat=26.7321 | long=88.4110 | directions=behind Narayana School | phone=+91 99333 33111, +91 90027 76070 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Simple, but well-equipped resort, outdoor baths, tea plantation, organic farm. }} * {{sleep | name=The Loft | alt= | url=https://www.thelofthotels.com/ | email= | address=Nivedita Road, Pradhan Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 70767 89035, +91 74790 07528 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A stylish hotel. Centrally located. 12 minute walk from Siliguri Junction Station and Siliguri Bus Station. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Courtyard by Marriott, Siliguri, West Bengal.jpg|thumb|Courtyard by Marriott]] Many of the modern, up-scale hotels are on Sevoke Road (2nd-3rd mile), near Vega Circle Mall. *{{sleep | name=Barsana Hotel | alt= | url= http://barsanahotels.com/ | email= bookings@bluemountaincountryclub.in | address= Khaprail Road, Matigara | lat= 26.7305| long= 88.3733 | directions= | phone = +91 353 257 16623 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= A beautiful hotel with all the modern amenities. Very reasonable as per the infrastructure and facilities. }} * {{sleep | name=Blue Mountain Country Club and Resort| alt= | url= https://www.facebook.com/bluemountaincountryclub/| email= | address= Hill Cart Road, Salbari, Dagapur | lat= | long= | directions= Near Campion School | phone = +91 353 296 0222 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A relaxing resort with swimming pool, rooftop restaurant and cafe. Indian and Western Cuisine. }} *{{sleep | name=Courtyard by Marriott | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ixbcy-courtyard-siliguri/ | email= | address=Hill Cart Road, Mallaguri | lat=26.746958 | long=88.39521 | directions= | phone=+91 353 666 6666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402490 | lastedit=2025-09-16 | content=A modern and chic hotel. Conveniently located for airport and city centre. Excellent service. }} *{{sleep | name=Hiland Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/hilandhotelsiliguri/ | email= | address=Sevoke Road, Dasrath Pally, Bhanu Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 93320 92690 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-14 | content=Centrally located. Large, tastefully designed rooms. Excellent food. Helpful and efficient service. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Sinclairs | alt= | url=https://www.sinclairshotels.com/siliguri | email= | address=Ward 46, Pradhan Nagar | lat=26.7339 | long=88.4109 | directions= | phone=+91 97334 62777 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A well-maintained hotel with good facilities. Located about a five-minute taxi ride from the main bus station. }} * {{sleep|name=Lemon Tree|alt=|url=https://www.lemontreehotels.com/lemon-tree-hotel/siliguri/hotel-siliguri.aspx|email=|address=Cresent Tower, 3rd Mile, Sevoke Road|lat=26.8367|long=88.3864|directions=|phone=+91 99117 01701|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=2PM|checkout=noon|price=|lastedit=2018-04-19|content=A well-maintained, modern hotel - convenient for airport and downtown. }} * {{Sleep|name=Mayfair Tea Resort|url=https://www.mayfairhotels.com/siliguri.php|email=reservations@mayfairhotels.com|lat=26.7720|long=88.3624|address=New Chumta More |phone=+91 92375 00101|lastedit=2021-04-05|content=The 154-room Tudor-style building is set among thousands of acres of tea gardens. Among its special features, the five-star resort boasts Italian marble floors and four-poster beds. Service and food are top quality. }} *{{sleep | name=Montana Vista | alt= | url=http://montanavista.in/ | email=frontdesk.montana@neotiahospitality.com | address=The Uttorayon Township, Matigara, NH-31|lat=26.7311|long=88.3989|directions= | phone= +91 94340 12737 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= A modern and chic hotel located among landscaped gardens. }} *{{Sleep|name=Ramada Encore|alt=Ramada by Wyndham|url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/ramada/siliguri-india/ramada-encore-siliguri-sevoke-road/overview|address=2nd Mile, Sevoke Road|phone=+91-663-1111|lastedit=2022-09-09|content=A chic and modern hotel. Well-served cafe and restaurant. 24/7 room service. }} *{{Sleep|name=Rasiklal's The Farm Boutique|url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Rasiklals-Organic-Farm/100080106680674/|email=ghoshsamrat18@yahoo.com|address=Betgara, Salugara|phone=+91 94748 71762|lastedit=2026-06-01|content=A boutique hotel in an organic farm. Reminiscent of Bali. Jacuzzi. Swimming pool. Tasty, fresh, and healthy meals. Friendly and attentive service.}} * {{sleep | name=Royal Sarovar Portico | alt= | url=https://www.sarovarhotels.com/royal-sarovar-portico-siliguri/ | email=rsps@sarovarhotels.com | address= | lat=26.7182 | long=88.4247 | directions= | phone=+91 353 221 6999 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-07 | content=3rd Mile, Sevoke Road. A smart hotel on the outskirts of town. Convenient for the Vega Circle and the Cosmos Shopping Mall. Good views over the Darjeeling Hills. }} * {{sleep | name=Saluja Residency | alt= | url=http://www.salujahotels.com/ | email= | address=Hill Cart Road | lat=26.7135 | long=88.4241 | directions= | phone=+91 353 243 1682, +91 353 243 1683, +91 353 243 1701 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Non-AC ₹750-1050, AC ₹1500-1900, suites ₹3,600-4,900 | content=Business Centre is complete with all modern facilities like secretarial services, fax, Internet, e-mail, and photocopying. }} *{{sleep | name=Saffron Crest | alt= | url=http://hotelsaffroncrest.com/ | email= | address=2nd Mile, Sevoke Road, Salugara | lat=26.750243 | long=88.4358071 | directions=opp Forest Check Post | phone=+91 97324 42311 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2018-12-11 | content=A modern and well-maintained hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Summit Milestone | alt= | url=https://www.summithotels.in/mount-milestone-hotel-banquets-siliguri/ | email= | address=Check Post, 2nd Mile, Sevoke Road | lat=26.748558 | long=88.4351969 | directions=opposite Bhakti Nagar Police Station | phone=+91 83888 77888 (reservations), +91 63 6637 0503 (front desk) | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A lovely hotel with modern facilities and attentive and efficient staff. }} *{{sleep | name=The Cindrella Hotel| alt= | url=http://www.cindrellahotels.com | email= thecindrellahotels@gmail.com | address=3rd Mile, Sevoke Road | lat=26.7557 | long=88.4415 | directions= | phone=+91 3532544130, +91 3532547130 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹4,500 - 12,000 | content=A four-star property. Pure vegetarian cuisine. Stylish rooms. Swimming pool. }} * {{sleep | name=The Vegabound Inn | alt= | url=http://thevegaboundinn.com/ | email= | address=Vega Circle | lat=26.752199 | long=88.436703 | directions= | phone=+91 353 254 5896, +91 81452 47070 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-08-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Viramma Resort | alt= | url=http://www.viramma.com | email= | address=Hill Cart Road | lat=26.7440 | long=88.4020 | directions= | phone=+91 353 251 2222 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A luxury resort on the Darjeeling highway. }} ==Stay safe == As in all of India, travelers may find themselves falling victim to [[Common scams|scams and touts]]. Be on guard for anybody trying to help you by giving you unsolicited directions or travel advice, and so do not openly show that this is your first trip to the city. If you're arriving after midnight, it is advisable to have accommodation pre-booked and an arranged pick-up from the bus terminal or station. In general, Siliguri is an extremely safe city with a very low crime rate, and violent crime against international travelers is unheard of. === Siliguri Metropolitan Police === [[File:ISKCON Temple, Siliguri, West Bengal, India (2010).jpg|thumb|ISKCON Siliguri]] The [https://siliguripc.wbpolice.gov.in/ Siliguri Metropolitan Police]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is one of the most advanced police forces in [[North Bengal]]. There are police patrollers all around the city and can be asked for any help. * {{Listing|name=Bagdogra Police Station|url=https://siliguripc.wbpolice.gov.in/ps.html/14/bagdogra-police-station|email=bagdograps@gmail.com|address=Hospital more (PHC), Uttar Bagdogra|lat=26.7001|long=88.3152|phone=+91 353 255 1242|hours=24 hr|lastedit=2022-01-11|content=Police station for Bagdogra.}} * {{Listing|name=Siliguri Police Station|url=https://siliguripc.wbpolice.gov.in/ps.html/12/siliguri-police-station|email=siliguripolicestationsmp@gmail.com|address=S.F. Road|lat=26.7050|long=88.4261|phone=+91 353 266 2101|hours=24 hr|lastedit=2022-01-11|content=Police station for Siliguri Town.}} * {{Listing|name=Matigara Police Station|url=https://siliguripc.wbpolice.gov.in/ps.html/15/matigara-police-station|email=matigarapsspc@gmail.com|address=Ramkrishanapara, Matigara|lat=26.7206|long=88.3833|phone=+91 353 257 1472|hours=24 hr|lastedit=2022-01-11|content=Police station for Matigara.}} * {{Listing|name=Bhaktinagar Police Station|url=https://siliguripc.wbpolice.gov.in/ps.html/17/bhaktinagar-police-station|email=bhaktinagarpolicestation@gmail.com|address=2nd Mile, Near Check Post, Sevoke Road|lat=26.7489|long=88.4388|phone=+91 353 254 3665|hours=24 hr|lastedit=2022-01-11|content=Police station for Bhaktinagar.}} * {{Listing|name=Pradhannagar Police Station|url=https://siliguripc.wbpolice.gov.in/ps.html/16/pradhannagar-police-station|email=pdnpsspc@gmail.com|address=Champasari, Near Regulated Market, Ward No- 46|lat=26.7356|long=88.4138|phone=+91 353 251 0046|hours=24 hr|lastedit=2022-01-11|content=Police station for Pradhannagar.}} * {{Listing|name=New Jalpaiguri Police Station|url=https://siliguripc.wbpolice.gov.in/ps.html/21/new-jalpaiguri-police-station|email=njpps.smp@gmail.com|address=Central colony, D-Block, Ward- 34|lat=26.6830|long=88.4244|phone=+91 353 269 1413|hours=24 hr|lastedit=2022-01-11|content=Police station for New Jalpaiguri.}} * {{Listing|name=Bhorer Alo Police Station|url=https://siliguripc.wbpolice.gov.in/ps.html/23/bhorer-alo|email=bhoreralops@gmail.com|address=18 Milan Pally|lat=26.700|long=88.420|phone=+91 79083-12396|hours=24 hr|lastedit=2024-01-01|content=Police station for Bhorer Alo area.}} ===Emergency numbers=== * {{listing | name=Emergency Number | phone=112 }} * {{listing | name=Police | phone=100 }} * {{listing | name=Fire | phone=101 }} * {{listing | name=Ambulance | phone=102 | content=or dial the nearest local hospital }} * {{listing | name=Women's Helpline | phone=1091 }} ==Connect== Cell phone coverage in the city is excellent. There are three major service providers offering a wide variety of plans. Among them are [https://www.airtel.in/ Airtel], [https://www.myvi.in/ VI] (formerly Vodafone) and [https://www.jio.com/ Jio]. Airtel is the preferable one as it provides high quality calls and great internet speed all across the city. To call Siliguri from abroad you will need to dial the international prefix for your country, followed by India's country code +91. If you want to dial a landline no. from a mobile, then you have to add the area code of Siliguri, 0353 before the number. Internet services are unreliable in some parts of the city. Most stores have broadband connections. Both the railway stations have free high-speed Wi-fi services but you need an Indian mobile number to register and receive the One-time password. ==Cope== ===Newspapers=== Local newspapers can be handy and reliable sources for day-to-day updates about the city. The city has number of newspapers and other publication that list local happenings. There are different options for newspapers including daily, weekly and bi-weekly. Some of the popular newspapers are [https://www.uttarbangasambad.in/ Uttarbanga Sambad], [https://bartamanpatrika.com/home Bartaman]{{Dead link|date=March 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.anandabazar.com/ Anandabazar Patrika], [https://www.thestatesman.com/ The Statesman], [https://www.sangbadpratidin.in/ Pratidin], [https://www.aajkaal.in/ Aajkaal] and [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/ Times of India] ===Rentals=== * {{listing | name=Darjeeling Bikes | alt=D | url=https://www.facebook.com/DarjeelingBikes/ | email=stttslg@gmail.com | address=Module 105, First Floor Webel IT Park, Phase – III Khaprail Road, Matigara | lat=26.728101 | long=88.372927 | directions=from Khaprile More take road going to Darjeeling and then first left | phone=+91 97343 77000 | tollfree=+91 97343 66000 | hours=8AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2019-10-10 | content= Bike rental service in Siliguri. }} *{{listing | name=Darjeeling Riders | alt= | url=http://darjeelingriders.com/ | email=info@darjeelingriders.com | address=B35, Satellite Township, Dabgram | lat= 26.6671| long= 88.4206| directions= | phone=+91 95994 56385, +91 9734 000 411 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Bike rentals, specializing in tours to Bhutan, Darjeeling, and Sikkim }} * {{listing | name=Siliguri Bike Rent | alt=D | url=https://renttorider.com/best-bike-rental-siliguri/ | email=Info@renttorider.com | address=Aurobindo Pally Main Road Ward no. 22| lat=26.706550369243914 | long=88.44520409927931 | directions=Siliguri Aurbindo Pally | phone=+91-7477309217 | hours=8AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-08-20 | content= Bike & scooty rental service. }} === Money exchange === There are several banks that offer foreign exchange and ATM service. * {{Listing|name=EBIXCASH World Money|url=https://www.buyforex.com/|email=forex-care@ebixcash.com|address=75, Rampada Bhavan, Ground Floor, Near SBI, Mangaldeep Branch, Hill Cart Road|lat=26.7258|long=88.4231|directions=A few steps from Rampada Bhavan|phone=+91 89294 85250|hours=M-Sa 9:30AM –6PM |lastedit=2022-01-09|content=One of India's most trusted foreign exchanges. The branch provides good rates with no hidden charges.}} === Hospitals/clinics === ==== Ayurvedic medicine ==== * {{Listing|name=Aarogyaveda|url=https://aarogyaveda.justdial.com/|email=aarogyaveda27@gmail.com|address=Mallaguri, Lane, Hill Cart Road|lat=26.7315|long=88.4106|directions=opposite Hanuman mandir, Suryasen Colony|phone=+91 81720 77557|tollfree=|hours=M-Sa 1-2:30PM, 2:30-7PM, Sunday closed|lastedit=2022-01-11|content=An ayurvedic treatment centre offering natural care and treatment for illnesses.}} *{{Listing|name=Kerala Ayurvedam|url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Kerala-Ayurvedam/100080618135434/|address=Panitanki More, Sevoke Road|lat=|long=|directions=near the clock tower|phone= +91 99320 19837|tollfree=|lastedit=2024-02-13|content=Offers comprehensive rage of ayurvedic and panchakarma therapies}} *{{Listing|name=Shuddhi Clinic|url=https://www.facebook.com/ShuddhiClinicsSiliguri/|address=Gital Para, Iskon Mandir Road, PO- Sevoke Road, PS- Bhaktinagar|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+91 77839 77839|tollfree=|hours=M-Sa 1-2:30PM, 2:30-7PM, Sunday closed|lastedit=2024-02-13|content=Specialist in ayurvedic treatments and panchakarma therapies.}} ==== Tibetan medicine ==== * {{Listing | name = Men-Tsee-Khang | url = https://www.bharatibiz.com/en/men-tsee-khang-tibetal-medical-092336-23874 | email = salugara@men-tsee-khang.org | address = Sevoke Road, Salugara | lat = 26.7703 | long = 88.4421 | phone = +91 92336 23874 | hours = Sa-Th 9AM–1PM, 2:30–5:30PM | lastedit = 2022-01-11 | content = A large Tibetan medicine centre providing treatments to illnesses and astrological services. }} ==== Western medicine ==== * {{listing | name=Desun Hospital | alt= | url=https://www.desunsiliguri.com/ | email=desun@desunhospital.com | address= | lat=26.6859 | long=88.396 | directions=beside Medical College | phone=+91 90516 40000 | tollfree= | hours=Open 24 hours, even during holidays | price= | lastedit=2022-01-11 | content=A modern superspeciality hospital. Hi-tech equipment. }} * {{Listing|name=Neotia Getwel Multispecialty Hospital|alt=Neotia Getwel|url=https://www.neotiagetwelsiliguri.com/|email=writetous.slg@neotiahealthcare.com|address=Uttorayon Township, Matigara|lat=26.7258|long=88.3935|directions=Behind City Centre Mall|phone=+91 0353 660 3000|fax=+91 353 660 3232|hours=24hrs|lastedit=2023-05-24|content=A multispeciality hospital. Hi–tech, specialized medical facilities. Comprehensive medical care}} * {{Listing|name=Medica North Bengal Medical Clinic|url=https://medicanorthbengalclinic.com/|email=msvp@nbmch.ac.in|address=D-5 Quarter Sushruta Nagar|lat=26.6901|long=88.3842|phone=+91 95939 44414|hours=24 hr|lastedit=2022-01-11|content=Located in an old building, but known for its professional treatment.}} ==== Organic and health food ==== *{{buy | name=Himalay Frsh | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/HimalayFrsh/ | email= | address=GF. PRM Tower, Sevoke Road, | lat= | long= | directions=Opposite Suchitra Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | hours=8AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2025-06-21 | content=A large supermarket stocking organic vegetables, fruit, and gourmet food. }} ==Nearby== * {{Listing|type=around | name=Sap Nikla Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=26.4 | long=88.3 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-12-07 | content=The forest and nearby lake is a popular tourist destination for travelers visiting the Siliguri area }} ==Go next == * '''[[Bodh Gaya]]''' - By bus, daily service offered Jay Jagdambey Bus Company. 3PM from Tenzing Norgay Bus Station (in front of Gupta Tour and Travels). A/C sleeper. Appro'''x''' ₹700. 17 hours. Sri Krishna Rath Bus Company. 8:30PM. Tenzin Norgay Bus Station. A/C sleeper Between approx ₹1,600-₹2,000 (depending on seat design) 14 hours. * '''[[Darjeeling]]''' &mdash; one of the oldest hill stations in India with interesting sites as well as trekking opportunities. Tu, Th Sa 8:30AM, Toy train departs NJP Station stopping at Siliguri Jn. Between ₹1,400-1,700 for the just over 7 hours journey. * '''[[Gangtok]]''' &mdash; this hill station is a popular site as a jumping-off point for treks, the home of the ''Banjhakri Falls'', views of surrounding mountains and friendly atmosphere. ₹400 for shared taxi from Tenzing Norgay bus station (a little more from NJP Station). * '''[[Gompa Dara]]''' &mdash; a small village that is the site of ''Gompa Rock'' and meditation caves and the ''Ogyen Mindrol Samtenling'' (Buddhist monastery) * '''[[Jalpaiguri]]''' &mdash; a city with many historical links to the past * '''[[Jaldapara National Park]] &mdash;''' this national park is a 180-min drive from Siliguri. It's famous for its wildlife, in particular the Indian rhinoceros, bison, elephants, and peacocks. * '''[[Kalimpong]]''' &mdash; a hill station with many gardens and religious sites. Buses depart Tenzing Norgay bus station and NJP train station every 20 minutes until 4PM - ₹110-₹130 for the two and a half hour journey (little more from NJP). Shared and private jeeps also ply the route from the same locations - approx ₹300 and ₹2,800/₹3,000 respectively. *'''[[Kathmandu]]'''. The Indian border town of [[Panitanki]] is around one hour from Siliguri. From there, it is 1.7 km to the Nepalese border town of [[Kakarbhitta]] (rickshaws available). The Nepal-Indian border at Siliguri, which was only open to Bhutanese, Indian, and Nepalese passport holders since the pandemic, is now open to all passport holders with valid visas. (updated May 2025)  Green Line Bus Service operates a daily overnight A/C Volvo bus service from Siliguri (Tenzing Norgay Bus Station) to Kathmandu (Swayambhu Bus Stand). Departs at 3PM, arriving at 8:30AM. ₹2,000. Tickets from North Point Tours and Treks in Tenzin Norgay Bus Station. (8972422958 / 8116781792). As the road conditions in Nepal are precarious, it is advisable to contact the agent prior to traveling to Siliguri to ensure the bus is running, especially during the monsoon. * '''[[Lava]]''' &mdash; a hamlet surrounded by beautiful natural forests. Home to the ''Lava Monastery'' and a spot to view Kanchenjunga peak at sunrise. * '''[[Loleygaon]]''' (Lolegaon) &mdash; a village noted for its ''Canopy Walk'', ''Jhandi Dhara Sunrise Point'', and ''Lolegaon View Point''. * '''[[Mangpoo]]''' &mdash; a small village (hill station) with beautiful views was once known for its medicinal plant cultivation. It was the site where poet laureate Rabindranath Tagore wrote his famous poem ''Janmadine''. * '''[[Mirik]]''' &mdash; a hill station with scenic views and tea gardens. The town is home to Sumendu Lake, several religious sites, and the international Bokar Buddhist Meditation Centre. * '''[[Phuentsholing]] &mdash;''' Khorlo/Dophu Transport +91 9832071965. Daily: 7AM (Coaster bus), 12PM (Coaster bus), 2PM (Eicher bus) from opposite Golden Plaza on Burdwan Road (behind Air View More). Tickets are sold at a counter near the bus parking area, and it costs ₹350 for the four-hour journey. +91 9832071965 See 'Go next' on Siliguri page for more information. There are more frequent Indian buses to the border town of [[Jaigaon]] from Tenzing Norgay Bus Station on Hill Cart Road. In addition, trains depart Silguri Junction at 7:45AM and 1PM (local - around 4 hours) and 8:15AM and 12:30PM (express - around 3 hours) to Hasimara, from where an auto (shared - around ₹30-50, reserved - around ₹300) can be taken to Jaigoan - 20 minutes. Foreign nationals need to complete Indian immigration formalities before entering Bhutan, and so need to alight the bus or auto at the immigration office in [[Jaigaon]]. (June 2026) {{routebox | placename=Siliguri (National Highway routes) | image1=NH10-IN.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Gangtok]] | minorl1=Sevoke | directionr1=S | majorr1=End | minorr1= | image2=NH110-IN.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=N | majorl2=[[Darjeeling]] | minorl2=[[Kurseong]] | directionr2=S | majorr2=End | minorr2= | image3=NH27-IN.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=W | majorl3=Kishanganj | minorl3=Islampur | directionr3=E | majorr3=[[Jalpaiguri]] | minorr3=[[Alipurduar]] }} {{routebox | placename=Siliguri (railway routes) | image1=Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.svg | imagesize1=100 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Darjeeling]] | minorl1=[[Kurseong]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=END | minorr1= | link1=Darjeeling Himalayan Railway }} {{geo|26.72|88.42}} {{isPartOf|Darjeeling (district)}} {{guidecity}} bs4ix5p06kl5l48gds0dvx3prv7gbwk 0 35122 5288871 5285834 2026-06-06T14:20:52Z Saimmx 2319861 /* By boat */ Yaimamaru, yay 5288871 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner | Formasa Station Banner.jpg}} '''Taiwan''' (Traditional Chinese: {{lang|zh-TW|台灣}} or {{lang|zh-TW|臺灣}}, ''Táiwān'') is a self-governing group of islands off the coast of China. It is one of the most densely populated places in the world. Besides its crowded cities, Taiwan is also known for steep mountains and lush forests. Taiwan is home to a large number of impressive scenic sites, and Taipei is a center of culture, entertainment and leisure activities. The island is also a center of Mandarin-language pop culture with a substantial entertainment industry. {{disclaimerbox|The mainland Chinese government (the PRC) claims Taiwan as its territory. However, Taiwan is under ''de facto'' self-administration (the ROC), and to the traveller is effectively a separate country. ''This page does not endorse the claims of either the PRC or ROC.''}} == Regions == {{Regionlist | regionmap = Taiwan_Regions_Map.png | regionmapsize = 250px | regionmaptext = Map of Taiwan with regions color-coded (Matsu is not included) | region1name=[[Northern Taiwan]] | region1color=#b08eb0 | region1items=[[Taipei]] (capital of Taiwan), [[Hsinchu]], [[Hsinchu County]], [[Keelung]], [[New Taipei]], [[Taoyuan]] | region1description=The capital city, main airport and technology hub of the island | region2name=[[Central Taiwan]] | region2color=#efb86e | region2items=[[Changhua County]], [[Miaoli County]], [[Nantou County]] and [[Taichung]] | region2description=Scenic mountains and lakes and major national parks | region3name=[[Eastern Taiwan]] | region3color=#77c283 | region3items=[[Yilan County]], [[Hualien]], [[Hualien County]], [[Taitung County]], [[Taitung]] | region3description=Hualien and Taitung are cut off from the rest of the island by the central mountains; this is a region of great natural beauty, and the main center of indigenous Austronesian culture | region4name=[[Southern Taiwan]] | region4color=#75a4c3 | region4items= [[Chiayi County]], [[Kaohsiung]], [[Pingtung County]], [[Tainan]] and [[Yunlin County]] | region4description=The tropics of Taiwan with beaches and palm trees and the third largest city | region5name=Outlying Islands | region5color=#c9cf7b | region5items=Tiny islands also governed by the Republic of China: [[Kinmen]] and [[Matsu]], just off the coast of mainland China's [[Fujian]] Province, [[Penghu]] in the straits, [[Green Island (Taiwan)|Green Island]] and [[Orchid Island]], east of Taiwan | region5description=Small islands that are popular getaway destinations with the locals. }} <br clear="right" /> {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b08eb0|title=[[Northern Taiwan]]|wikidata=Q249994,Q74054,Q249996,Q244898,Q1867,Q115256}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#efb86e|title=[[Central Taiwan]]|wikidata=Q133865,Q63706,Q82357,Q245023}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#77c283|title=[[Eastern Taiwan]]|wikidata=Q237258,Q249868,Q249904}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#75a4c3|title=[[Southern Taiwan]]|wikidata=Q249995,Q166977,Q181557,Q194989,Q140631,Q153221}} == Cities == {{mapframe|23.76|120.97|zoom=7}} {{mapshape|title=Taiwan High Speed Rail|wikidata=Q706198|type=geoline|stroke=#c35617|stroke-width=4|stroke-opacity=1}} [[File:TWTC ITB, TICC and Taipei 101 20100410 night.jpg|thumb|Taipei at night]] Cities are listed in an anticlockwise direction from Taipei. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taipei]]|wikidata=Q1867}} ({{lang|zh-TW|臺北}} or {{lang|zh-TW|台北}}) – the national capital of Taiwan and one of the world's major global cities, as well as the center of commerce and culture. Taipei is also home to Ximending and Taipei 101. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Miaoli]]|lat=24.57|long=120.82}} ({{lang|zh-TW|苗栗}}) – The main center of Hakka culture in Taiwan. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taichung]]|wikidata=Q245023}} ({{lang|zh-TW|臺中}} or {{lang|zh-TW|台中}}) – The second-largest city on the island. In the center-western region of Taiwan, and famous among the Taiwanese for its pastries such as sun cakes and pineapple cakes. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Puli]]|wikidata=Q706544}} ({{lang|zh-TW|埔里}}) – At the geographical center of the island, making it a good base for exploring the central mountains and [[Sun Moon Lake]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tainan]]|wikidata=Q140631}} ({{lang|zh-TW|臺南}} or {{lang|zh-TW|台南}}) – The oldest city and former capital of Taiwan. It is famous for its historic buildings, and as the unofficial culinary capital of Taiwan. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kaohsiung]]|wikidata=Q181557}} ({{lang|zh-TW|高雄}}) – The third-largest city on the island. It has one of the busiest sea ports (the Port of Kaohsiung) in the world and the island's second-largest airport. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taitung]]|lat=22.758333|long=121.144444}} ({{lang|zh-TW|臺東}} or {{lang|zh-TW|台東}}) – On the southeastern coast, a laid back city that is known for beautiful scenery and large indigenous population. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Hualien]]|wikidata=Q713310}} ({{lang|zh-TW|花蓮}}) – Near Taroko Gorge and considered one of the most pleasant of Taiwan's cities. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Jiufen]]|wikidata=Q31093}} ({{lang|zh-TW|九份}}) – A former gold mining town on the northeast coast visited for its quaint streets and picturesque views. == Other destinations == [[File:Alishan Forest Staircase2.JPG|thumb|240px|Mountain trail in [[Alishan]]]] People tend to think of Taiwan as a small, crowded island filled mostly with electronic factories, and if you stay in Taipei or along the west coast you might indeed maintain that impression. However, the island is also home to high mountain ranges, great beaches and stunning national parks, many with hot springs. Taiwan is approximately 60% forested, and most of that forest is natural. * {{marker|name=[[Alishan]]|wikidata=Q707585}} ({{lang|zh-TW|阿里山}}) – Misty forests of giant cypresses and amazing sunrises at the center of the island, reached by a scenic narrow-gauge train * {{marker|name=[[Kenting National Park]]|wikidata=Q707982}} ({{lang|zh-TW|墾丁國家公園}}) – At the extreme southern tip of the island, this park is famous for its beaches and lush vegetation. * {{marker|name=[[Shei-pa National Park]]|wikidata=Q707996}} ({{lang|zh-TW|雪霸國家公園}}) – A park spanning mountains and rivers in [[Hsinchu County]]—great hiking trails * {{marker|name=[[Sun Moon Lake]]|wikidata=Q716206}} ({{lang|zh-TW|日月潭}}) – Nestled at 762 m (2,500&nbsp;ft) in lofty mountains in [[Nantou County]], this lake is famous for its clear sparkling blue water and picturesque mountain backdrop. * {{marker|name=[[Taipingshan]]|wikidata=Q30020365}} ({{lang|zh-TW|太平山}}) – A historic logging area and one of Taiwan's most scenic spots. Located in [[Yilan County]]. * {{marker|name=[[Taroko Gorge]]|wikidata=Q707427}} ({{lang|zh-TW|太魯閣峽谷}} ''Tàilǔgé'') – An impressive gorge off the east coast * {{marker|name=[[Yangmingshan National Park]]|wikidata=Q709029}} ({{lang|zh-TW|陽明山國家公園}}) – Spanning a mountain range overlooking Taipei * {{marker|name=[[Yushan]]|wikidata=Q500275}} (Jade Mountain/{{lang|zh-TW|玉山}}) – At 3,952 m the highest mountain in not just Taiwan, but in the entire eastern ⅔ of East Asia * {{marker|name=[[Lalashan]]|wikidata=}} ({{lang|zh-TW|拉拉山}}) – In [[Taoyuan County]], "Lala" means "beauty" in the indigenous Atayal language. Mt. Lala is one of natural protection zones in Taiwan. There are some 500–2,800-year-old "divine" trees including the No. 5 divine tree, which is reputedly even older than Confucius. Lalashan is best known for its peach trees, and peach season (July–August) is the most beautiful time to visit Mt. Lala. == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationROC.png}} Taiwan is home to more than 24 million people (2022). Although the vast majority of the population is ethnically Han Chinese, the indigenous Austronesian inhabitants maintain their own cultures, and the legacy of Japanese colonial rule still pervades much of Taiwanese life. Japanese, Hongkongers and Southeast Asians enjoy taking short trips to Taiwan to enjoy its neighborly hospitality. Taiwan is home to some well-known international companies such as Acer, MSI, Asus, HTC, TSMC and Giant Bicycles, whose technologies are some of the most advanced in the world. === History === {{seealso|Indigenous Taiwanese culture|Imperial China|Chinese Revolutions|Japanese colonial empire|Pacific War}} Taiwan was first populated 30,000 years ago by an Australo-Melanesian group known as the Negrito. The Negrito were eventually assimilated and displaced 5,000 years ago by Proto-Austronesians who arrived from the east coast of mainland China, predominantly from what is now Fujian province. It has been suggested that these people were the ancestors of [[Austronesian]] speakers across Southeast Asia, the Pacific, and even Madagascar. Recorded history began with the partial colonization of Taiwan by the [[Netherlands|Dutch]] and then the Portuguese in the early 17th century. (The old name of Taiwan, ''Formosa'', comes from the Portuguese ''Ilha Formosa'' for "beautiful island".) Many pro-independence Taiwanese consider the establishment of Dutch colonial rule in 1624 to be the birth of the Taiwanese nation. Han Chinese immigrants arrived in significant numbers with the onset of European trade. The Ming loyalist Koxinga defeated the Dutch garrisons and set up Taiwan as a rump Ming Empire with the hope of reconquering Qing China. His grandson surrendered to the Qing in the late 1600s. Although contact between China and Taiwan dates back thousands of years, it was not until larger numbers of ethnic Han residents arrived during the Qing dynasty that Taiwan was integrated into China as part of Hokkien (Fujian) province. It became a separate province in 1887. The years of Han Chinese settlement during the Qing Dynasty were marred by conflict between the Han settlers and the indigenous people, between the Minnan and Hakka speakers among the Han settlers, and between the [[Quanzhou]] and [[Zhangzhou]] immigrants among the Minnan speakers. All these resulted in Minnan speakers largely occupying the fertile lowlands along the coast, the Hakkas being forced to occupy the middle elevations in the mountains, and the indigenous people being forced to higher elevations in the mountains and the more typhoon-prone east coast. Defeated by the Japanese, the Qing Empire ceded Taiwan to [[Japan]] under the terms of the treaty of Shimonoseki in 1895. Japan ruled the island until the end of World War II in 1945, and exerted profound influences on its development. The island's entertainment and pop culture was and still is heavily influenced by that of Japan. Much of the infrastructure built by the Japanese can still be seen on the island, and has been in continuous use up to the present day (e.g. railway crossing gates, administrative buildings, and the old port at Kaohsiung). During [[Pacific War|World War II]], many Taiwanese, both indigenous and Han Chinese, served in the Imperial Japanese Army, many of whom have been enshrined in the controversial [[Tokyo/Chiyoda#Yasukini Shrine|Yasukuni Shrine]] in [[Tokyo]]. Like their counterparts in [[Korea]] and other occupied territories, many Taiwanese women were forced to serve as "comfort women" (i.e. sex slaves) in Japanese military brothels. Upon the resumption of Chinese rule, the ''Kuomintang'' (KMT, {{lang|zh-TW|國民黨}}) under Chiang Kai-shek, also known as the Nationalists, was suspicious of the locals in Taiwan, because many Taiwanese had served in the Japanese military and civil service during World War II. Moreover, the Japanese had sought to turn Taiwan into a model colony. Despite having been discriminated against, many locals had seen their standards of living improve under Japanese rule, and were disillusioned by the corruption and incompetence that plagued the Kuomintang at that time. Tensions between the new Kuomintang government and the locals culminated in the '''228 incident''' on 28th February 1947, when many locals revolted against Chinese rule, and the Kuomintang responded with a brutal crackdown, massacring thousands of pro-independence protesters and Japanese-educated intellectuals. Taiwan was placed under martial law following the incident, which was not lifted until 1987; this period is known to the Taiwanese as the "White Terror" ({{lang|zh-TW|白色恐怖}}). Discussion of the incident was banned under the years of martial law, but was brought back to the fore once again following democratization in the 1990s, and it remains a key impetus behind the Taiwan independence movement. [[File:Ximending rainbow crossing 201910.jpg|thumb|Ximending in Taipei, the capital of Taiwan]] [[File:Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in 2002.jpg|thumb|Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall]] In the early 20th century, the Nationalists and Communists fought a bloody civil war in mainland China. Although the two sides briefly united against Japan during World War II, they quickly began fighting again after the war was over. The Communists emerged victorious in 1949. The Nationalist government, remnants of their army, and hundreds of thousands of supporters then fled to Taiwan, but also retained control of several offshore islands of Fujian. From Taipei, they continued to assert their right as the sole legitimate government of all China. Initially very repressive, the government began to loosen control in its fourth decade under the leadership of Chiang Kai-shek's son, Chiang Ching-kuo. Taiwan also experienced rapid economic growth and modernisation under the leadership of Chiang Ching-kuo, becoming one of the world's richest and most modern economies and earning it a place as one of the East Asian Tigers. Today, Taiwan is generally regarded as a modern, developed economy, and is the world's largest producer of semiconductor chips. Democratization began in earnest through the 1980s and 1990s, culminating with the first direct presidential elections in 1996, and the first peaceful transition of power between two political parties in 2000. Taiwanese politics remain dominated by the issue of relations between Taiwan and the [[China|People's Republic of China]] (PRC), which still claims Taiwan as a "renegade province" and regularly threatens military action if Taiwan attempts to break away from the awkward '''One China''' status quo, whereby both sides agree that there is only one Chinese nation, but disagree on whether that one nation should be governed by the PRC or the Republic of China (ROC). To summarize a ''very'' complex situation, the '''Pan-Blue''' ({{lang|zh-TW|泛藍}}) group spearheaded by the KMT supports eventual unification with the mainland when the political climate is right, while the '''Pan-Green''' ({{lang|zh-TW|泛綠}}) group led by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) supports eventual formal independence under the name "Republic of Taiwan". Although mainland China has been Taiwan's most important trading partner since 2008, many Taiwanese were fearful that deepening economic ties would lead to the Chinese Communist Party using this economic dependence to coerce democratic Taiwan into unifying with mainland China under communist rule. Things came to a head when student protesters stormed the Legislative Yuan on 18th March 2014, forcing the government to abandon ratification of a trade deal with mainland China, marking the first time the Taiwanese legislature had been occupied by civilian protesters. The protests, popularly known as the '''Sunflower Movement''', are today considered a watershed moment in Taiwanese political history, as they led to the political awakening of much of the formerly apolitical younger generation, galvanized a distinct Taiwanese identity, and united most of the younger generation behind the pro-independence camp. === Government and politics === Taiwan is a presidential republic modelled after the American system of government, with influences from the traditional Chinese system of government as envisioned by Sun Yat-sen, the founding president of the Republic of China. It has a separation of powers into five branches of government instead of three, as is typical in Western presidential republics. The President is popularly elected every four years for up to two terms, and is the head of state. The President has the sole authority to appoint members of the executive branch, known as the Executive Yuan, whose leader, known as the Premier, serves as the head of government. The legislative branch is known as the Legislative Yuan, often referred to as the "Parliament", which is elected every four years in parallel with the presidential elections. Taiwan is a vibrant democracy known for its exceptionally dramatic parliamentary sessions, with physical fights between legislators on the floor being a regular occurrence. The other branches of government are the Judicial Yuan, which serves as Taiwan's constitutional court and leads the judiciary branch, the Examination Yuan, which administers civil service examinations, and the Control Yuan, which is responsible for auditing the government. The three main parties in Taiwanese politics are the '''Kuomintang''' (KMT), the '''Democratic Progressive Party''' (DPP), and the '''Taiwan People's Party''' (TPP). Generally speaking, the main distinction between the three parties is their attitude toward China: While the KMT, which professes Chinese nationalism, favors friendlier ties with China, the DPP, which professes Taiwanese nationalism, takes a tougher stance against China and favors closer ties with Japan and the United States. The TPP attempts to sidestep the China issue by instead focusing on bread and butter issues and populist agendas. The older generation is politically split between the KMT vs the DPP, while the younger generation is split between the DPP vs the TPP. Both left and right wingers in the Western sense can be found in all major parties. === People === Taiwan was first populated by indigenous peoples ({{lang|zh-TW|原住民}} ''yuán zhù mín'') that spoke various Austronesian languages, which are related to Malay, Tagalog, Indonesian and most languages of the Pacific island nations. Today the remaining indigenous peoples make up only about 2% of the population, while the other 98% are considered ethnically Han Chinese. The Han Chinese are further split into Taiwanese ({{lang|zh-TW|本省人}} ''běn shěng rén'', lit. "people of our province"), who make up about 84% of the population and whose ancestors migrated to Taiwan during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, and mainlanders ({{lang|zh-TW|外省人}} ''wài shěng rén'', lit. "people of other provinces"), who make up about 14% of the population and whose families fled to Taiwan from the mainland after the communist takeover in 1949. Among the Taiwanese group, Hoklo (Minnan) speakers form the majority, which is about 70% of the population, while the remaining 14% are largely Hakka speakers. In modern times, Taiwan is also home to immigrants from elsewhere, especially other Asian countries such as Malaysia (most of whom are ethnically Chinese), Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines and Indonesia. The post-1949 Chinese immigrants come from every province and include many non-Han residents. === Culture === Taiwanese culture is largely based on traditional Chinese culture, particularly that of [[Fujian]] province, because most Taiwanese are Han Chinese whose ancestors migrated to Taiwan from that region. However, in the 20th century, Taiwanese culture diverged from that of mainland China. Substantial Japanese influences can be seen in modern Taiwanese culture because of 50 years of Japanese rule, and this can be seen in its cuisine and in its pop culture. In addition, the Japanese introduced baseball and hot-spring bathing to Taiwan, and these remain popular pastimes for the Taiwanese to this day. Kuomintang refugees fleeing the mainland in the aftermath of the Chinese Civil War also brought their cultures with them, and their influence is most visible in Taiwan's cuisine. As Taiwan was spared from the Cultural Revolution, the Taiwanese have also retained some elements of traditional Chinese culture that have been lost in mainland China. Indigenous Austronesian or "Formosan" culture has greatly suffered under multiple different waves of colonial rule. It is having a resurgence today, and efforts are being made to revive the culture through the introduction of the Formosan languages into the school curriculum. However, many aspects of it have been lost forever, which is evident in how the majority of the Formosan languages are extinct or moribund. Numerous indigenous Taiwanese have had successful careers in the entertainment industry, perhaps the most famous example being the singer Kulilay Amit, better known by her Chinese name Chang Huei-mei, who is of Puyuma ethnicity. The indigenous people of Taiwan are separated into Lowland groups who lived on the plains and Highland groups who lived in the mountains. The Lowland groups were the first to come in contact with the Dutch while the Highland groups were only truly subjugated by the Japanese. The Lowland groups receive limited indigenous recognition today due to having largely culturally assimilated into the Han Chinese, and suspicion from Highland groups on whether they truly qualify as "indigenous". === Climate === [[File:Footbridge, Taroko 01.jpg|thumb|240px|Taroko Gorge suspension bridge]] Lowland Taiwan has a marine tropical climate during the summer, with sweltering, humid weather (above 30&nbsp;°C, 86&nbsp;°F) from Jun-Sep. In the winter the weather is influenced by the nearby continent, and in the northern areas the temperature can go as low as 8&nbsp;°C at night. The best time of year to visit is from Oct-Dec, although even then occasional typhoons can spoil the fun. Spring is also nice, although it rains more than during autumn. During the typhoon season, the east coast bears the brunt of the damage as it is facing the Pacific Ocean. In the mountainous regions you will encounter more temperate conditions. Rapid weather change can endanger unprepared visitors, so advice on proper preparation should be obtained before visiting those areas. In fact, it snows every year on Taiwan's highest mountains and occasionally even on mountains like Alishan. === Taiwanese calendar === The ''Minguo'' ({{lang|zh-TW|民國}}, ROC) calendar, counting years from the establishment of the ROC (1911), is commonly used in Taiwan. To convert a ''Minguo'' date to A.D., just add 1911. {{CURRENTYEAR}} is Minguo {{#expr:{{CURRENTYEAR}}−1911}}. Months and days are according to the standard Gregorian calendar for almost everything except traditional holidays and religious matters, which use the traditional Chinese lunar calendar. === Festivals === {{CNYdates}} As Taiwan is majority Han Chinese, traditional Chinese festivals are celebrated in Taiwan. Among the most notable are: *'''Chinese New Year''' ({{lang|zh-TW|春節}}). This is the most important festival for the Taiwanese and many shops and restaurants close on the first three days so it is not an ideal time to visit. However, the days leading up to the festival and the fourth to fifteenth days are ideal for soaking up the atmosphere and listening to Chinese New Year songs. *'''Tomb Sweeping Day''' (Ching Ming Festival, {{lang|zh-TW|清明節}}). This is when many Taiwanese pay respects at their ancestors' graves, do maintenance on those graves, and generally have a day long picnic in the cemetery. *'''Dragon Boat Festival''' ({{lang|zh-TW|端午節}}). This festival honors Qu Yuan, a patriotic official from the state of Chu during the Warring States period of Chinese history who committed suicide by jumping into a river when Chu was conquered by Qin. To prevent the fishes from eating his body, villagers threw rice dumplings into the river to feed the fishes and rowed dragon boats with drums being beaten on them to scare away the fishes. Since then, dragon boat racing has been carried out on this day and rice dumplings are also eaten. *'''Hungry Ghost Festival''' (Ghost Month, {{lang|zh-TW|中元節}}). This festival runs throughout the seventh month of the Chinese calendar. It is believed that the gates of hell open during this period and hungry ghosts are allowed to roam freely into our world. In order to appease the ghosts and prevent misfortune, many Taiwanese offer food and burn joss paper for them. In addition, traditional Chinese performances such as Chinese opera and puppet shows are held to appease these wandering spirits. *'''Mid-Autumn Festival''' (Moon Festival, {{lang|zh-TW|中秋節}}). Legend has it that on this day, a woman known as Chang E swallowed some divine pills to prevent her power hungry husband from becoming immortal. Afraid of being killed by her husband, she fled to the moon and it is believed that the moon shines brightest on this day. This is when many lanterns are put up for decoration in various parks and shops, which is quite a beautiful sight. Mooncakes are also eaten on this day so it would be an ideal time to try some. Many Taiwanese have barbecue with family or friends as part of the celebration. === Terrain === [[File:Jiuwanshibaguai.JPG|thumb|Cliffs meet the eastern coast of Taiwan, Hualien County]] Taiwan is largely mountainous with a chain of mountains running from north to south at the center of the island. The west coast is largely plains and unsurprisingly is where most of the population is concentrated, and is where all the larger cities like [[Taichung]] and [[Kaohsiung]] are located. The east coast also has some plains but they are more sparsely populated due to the higher typhoon risk, but is also home to the cities of [[Hualien]] and [[Taitung]] with significant populations. ===Visitor information === * [https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/ Taiwan Tourism] == Talk == {{infobox|You say Zhongshan, I say Chungshan....|The romanization of Chinese used in Taiwan is not standardized. Most older place names and personal names are derived from a simplified version of Wade-Giles. The government established Hanyu Pinyin (the same system used in the mainland and the international standard) as the official system in 2009, but most local governments that did not already use the system have not switched over, and highway signs are only being gradually changed from the Tongyong Pinyin system, leading to much inconsistency. Some local governments, such as that of Taipei and Taichung, have already converted their street signs to Hanyu Pinyin and New Taipei is implementing the switch to Hanyu Pinyin. However, there are still street signs posted by city governments next to signs installed by the national government having different romanization conventions, as is the case for Kaohsiung, where Tongyong Pinyin, not Hanyu Pinyin, is the local standard. For example, Zhongshan, Chungshan, Jungshan and Jhongshan can easily refer to the same Chinese name. This article attempts to use the romanizations most commonly used ''in'' Taiwan (on street signs, buses, tourist maps, etc.) People know romanisation as 'Roma-Pinyin' (Luoma-Pinyin).}} {{infobox|Cross-strait differences|If you learnt Mandarin in mainland China, you might have heard people using the term {{lang|zh-TW|臺妹}} (''táimèi'') to refer to young Taiwanese women. However, in Taiwan, it is a derogatory term used to refer an uncultured young woman from the countryside, and Taiwanese women will not be impressed if you use it to refer to them.}} Taiwan's official languages are four varieties of Chinese — '''[[Chinese phrasebook - Traditional|Mandarin]]''', '''[[Minnan phrasebook|Taiwanese]]''' (a dialect of Minnan), '''[[Hakka phrasebook|Hakka]]''', and '''[[Fuzhou dialect phrasebook|Matsu dialect]]''' — as well as the '''indigenous Austronesian languages'''. All announcements in public transportation on the main island are made in Mandarin, English, Taiwanese and Hakka. In [[Matsu]] Islands, announcements are made in Mandarin and the local Matsu dialect. Mandarin is the ''lingua franca'', but Taiwanese is the mother tongue of about 70% of the population (although fluency in Taiwanese is declining among the younger generation). In the north where there is a large concentration of so-called "mainlanders" (those whose families came to Taiwan from mainland China in the 1940s and 1950s as refugees of the Chinese Civil War), most people speak Mandarin as their primary language (although Taiwanese is spoken in abundance), but in the south of the island, Taiwanese is far more common. Hakka is the main language at the middle elevations of the mountainous parts of Taoyuan, Hsinchu and Miaoli. Mandarin, Taiwanese and Hakka are all tonal languages, and are difficult for most foreigners to master. Indigenous languages can mostly be heard on the East Coast and its offshore islands, as well as at higher elevations in the mountains. The Matsu dialect is a variant of the Fuzhou dialect (also known as ''Hokchiu'' or ''Foochow''), and is almost exclusively concentrated in the [[Matsu]] islands located close to [[Fuzhou]] in mainland China. Chinese is written using '''Chinese characters''' ({{lang|zh-TW|漢字}}, ''hànzì'', lit. "Han characters"). Unlike an alphabet that represents individual sounds without any inherent meaning, each Chinese character represents a meaningful syllable: a specific word or part of a word. Although they look impenetrable at first, there is some method to the madness: most characters are composed from base components combined with other characters (often giving clues to both pronunciation and general meaning). Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, and many overseas Chinese still use the '''traditional characters''', whereas since the 1950s mainland China has used simplified characters, such as {{lang|zh-Hans|龟}} instead of {{lang|zh-TW|龜}}. Cursive forms of Chinese characters, often used for effect in logos, range from "looks familiar if you squint" to "impenetrable scribbles". There are multiple ways of romanizing Mandarin Chinese, but '''pinyin''' ({{lang|zh-TW|漢語拼音}} ''hànyǔ pīnyīn'') is the most useful for a visitor to learn. It's a fairly logical system, although it has a few idiosyncrasies, including using some letters in ways that are different from English (such as ''q'' which is similar to English "ch" and ''x'' which is like English "sh"). (However, people in Taiwan are more familiar with a phonetic alphabet called Zhuyin ({{lang|zh-TW|注音}} ''zhùyīn'', written using Zhuyin as ㄓㄨˋ　ㄧㄣ), commonly known in English as '''bopomofo''' (named after the first four letters, ㄅㄆㄇㄈ), which is used for language education and typing.) All dialects of Chinese are also '''tonal''', meaning each syllable has to be pronounced with the correct tone &mdash; high, rising, falling-rising, falling, or neutral &mdash; to be understood; Mandarin tones are marked in pinyin using diacritics that graphically mimic the tones patterns (as in ''mā'', ''má'', ''mǎ'', ''mà'', and ''ma''). With just a few hours of practice, you can learn to pronounce Mandarin words accurately using pinyin. However, as Chinese has many homophones, pinyin is useful for pronunciation but not practical for communicating meaning; for something like a street address, you need to use Chinese characters. Although standard Mandarin in Taiwan is nearly identical to standard Mandarin in mainland China (with differences mostly in technical and translated terms invented post-1949), most people in practice speak a distinctly accented version known as Taiwanese Mandarin. For example, Taiwanese Mandarin tends to not differentiate between the "S" and "Sh" or the "f" and "h" sounds in Mandarin. All people schooled after 1945 are generally fluent in Mandarin, though older people from rural areas often have a very thick accent. Mandarin is fairly popular with young people. Some elderly people do not speak Mandarin as they were schooled in Japanese or not at all. Most Taiwanese are very accepting of foreigners and react with curiosity and admiration for trying the local tongue. Generally, most people in Taiwan converse using a combination of Mandarin and Taiwanese by code-switching. The Taiwanese dialect is a variant of Minnan, which is similar to the dialect spoken across the Taiwan Strait in [[South Fujian]]. Unlike in South Fujian, Taiwanese Minnan has some loan words from Japanese as a result of 50 years of Japanese colonization. Taiwanese Minnan and [[Xiamen]] Minnan are both mixtures of the [[Zhangzhou]] and [[Quanzhou]] accents, so as a result, Taiwanese Minnan sounds very similar to Xiamen Minnan. There is also dialectal variation in Taiwanese between different parts of the island; the [[Tainan]] dialect is generally considered to be the prestige dialect. An increasing number of pro-independence Taiwanese are opting to speak Taiwanese exclusively and shun Mandarin as a political statement, though they completely understand if foreigners are not able to speak Taiwanese. Although '''English''' is compulsory in school, and features commonly on signage in places frequented by tourists such as public transportation, tourist attractions and shopping malls, most Taiwanese have a fairly poor command of the language. People who deal with foreigners regularly such as hotel, airport and tourist attraction staff usually speak at least basic English. So be patient, and use English-to-Mandarin translation software to communicate if necessary. English fluency is noticeably more widespread in the north than in the south, where it is possible to run into front-facing staff members even in places like hotels who only speak Chinese. Quite a few people, especially in Taipei, are proficient in '''[[Japanese phrasebook|Japanese]]''' due to the high number of Japanese visitors and the history of colonial rule. Staff at tourist attractions such as the Taipei 101, museums, hotels, popular restaurants and airport shops speak Japanese in addition to English, Mandarin and other local languages. In fact, if you are a visitor of East Asian descent who cannot understand Chinese, a worker may try speaking to you in Japanese before trying English. There has been an increasing usage of the '''[[Korean phrasebook|Korean]]''' language by tourism boards due to the large number of Korean people visiting Taiwan. Thus, there are many signs across Taiwan written in Korean. An enthusiasm for Korean-language education is also gaining momentum due to the popularity of South Korean dramas and pop music. Due to the increasing number of [[Southeast Asia]]ns visiting or working in Taiwan, '''[[Indonesian phrasebook|Indonesian]]''', '''[[Thai phrasebook|Thai]]''' and '''[[Vietnamese phrasebook|Vietnamese]]''' are spoken by some staff at immigration departments, tourist attractions, and certain places where Southeast Asian foreign workers gather (such as Zhong Shan North Road in Taipei, or ASEAN Square in Taichung). '''Taiwan Sign Language''' is the language of the deaf community. It has partial mutual intelligibility with Japanese Sign Language and Korean Sign Language, but not with Chinese Sign Language or Hong Kong Sign Language. == Get in == {{VisaRestriction|In most cases, citizens of [[China|mainland China]] residing in the mainland are '''not permitted''' to enter Taiwan for tourism. See [[#Citizens of Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau|"Citizens of Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau"]] section for details.|lastedit=2023-06-29}} ===Entry requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Taiwan.svg|thumb|450px|Visa policy of Taiwan{{legend|#F60501|Taiwan}}{{legend|#20B44A|Visa-free - 90 days}}{{legend|#b5e61d|Visa-free - 30 days}}{{legend|#65D6A5|Visa-free - 14 days}}{{legend|#DCEF9B|Visa on arrival}}{{legend|#9DDEE5|eVisa}}{{legend|#f38eff|Exit & Entry Permit on arrival}}{{legend|#ADADAD|Visa required}}]] ==== Visas ==== Foreign nationals of the following countries can enter Taiwan '''visa-free''' as a ''visitor'' provided that their passports are valid for at least 6 months upon entry: '''For up to 90 days:''' All 27 '''European Union''' member states, Andorra, Australia, Canada, El Salvador, Eswatini, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Iceland, Israel, Japan, South Korea, Liechtenstein, Marshall Islands, Monaco, New Zealand, Nicaragua, North Macedonia, Norway, Palau, Paraguay, San Marino, Switzerland, Tuvalu, the United Kingdom, the United States and Vatican City. '''For up to 30 days:''' Belize, Dominican Republic, Malaysia, Nauru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Singapore. '''For up to 14 days:''' Brunei, Philippines and Thailand (until 31 July 2026 for all three). Visa-free entry for Russian citizens has been suspended. Citizens of the above countries presenting an emergency or temporary passport will be required to apply for a visa on arrival by supplying a passport photo and paying a fee of NT$2,400, or NT$800 for citizens of countries with reciprocal agreements. The visa on arrival allows a stay of up to 30 days. It is issued by the Bureau of Consular Affairs, which has offices in Taipei and Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. Visitors landing at Taoyuan can apply for a visa on arrival at the airport. If landing at other airports, a temporary entry permit will be issued, and holders must apply for a visa on arrival in the Bureau of Consular Affairs, or Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Citizens whose place of birth is listed as [[China|mainland China]] must have lived outside China for over four years. Citizens of Turkey can apply for a '''free''' visa on arrival. However, Turkish citizens whose place of birth is listed as mainland China must prove that they reside in the passport-issuing country (i.e., Turkey) and are not citizens of mainland China. Apart from these requirements, the general rules for a visa on arrival apply to Turkish citizens. Citizens of Japan need only present a passport with at least 3 months' validity (rather than 6 months' validity) upon entry. Citizens of the United States can enter Taiwan on a passport with less than 6 months' validity on the date of arrival by supplying a passport photo and paying a fee of NT$5,600. Citizens of Canada and the United Kingdom can extend their stay for an extra 90 days (i.e. a total stay of up to 180 days) free of charge. More information is available on [https://www.boca.gov.tw/dl-1941-10818f41fd244cbbbb5de39737fc963a.html this Bureau of Consular Affairs information sheet]. Holders of a valid APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) ''except'' those issued by mainland China or Hong Kong may visit Taiwan for up to 90 days without a visa. Citizens of India, Vietnam, Indonesia, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos who have a visa that has expired less than 10 years prior to the date of arrival in Taiwan or permanent resident card issued by a [[Europe#Schengen Agreement|Schengen]] country, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or the United States can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival after making an [https://niaspeedy.immigration.gov.tw/nia_southeast/ online application]. All foreigners age 14 and older (except those on government business and certain permanent residents) are electronically fingerprinted and photographed as part of immigration entry procedures. Entry will be denied if these procedures are refused. Detailed information about visas is available at the website of the '''[https://www.boca.gov.tw/mp-2.html Bureau of Consular Affairs]'''. Taiwan does not have formal embassies in most of the world's countries (due to the 'One China Principle' of mainland China forcing each country to renounce diplomatic relations with Taiwan if it chooses to have diplomatic relations with much its much larger neighbour). Instead, Taiwan operates a "Taipei Representative Office", "Taipei Economic and Trade Office", or something of a similarly ambiguous name in most major countries, and these act as ''de facto'' embassies and consulates that can issue Taiwanese visas. No visa is required if you are connecting between international flights so long as you do not leave an airport's secure area. However, '''mainland Chinese citizens are not permitted to transit through Taiwan'''. You will be denied boarding for your flight should you attempt to do so. ====Citizens of Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau==== Citizens of Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau must apply for a Taiwan Entry Permit ({{lang|zh-TW|入臺證}}), a de facto e-visa issued by Taiwan, to enter Taiwan. For Mainland Chinese citizens, they also need a Taiwan Travel Permit ({{lang|zh-TW|往来台湾通行证}}) with a corresponding permission to leave Mainland China. As of December 2024, travel permission are not issued by Mainland authorities to Mainland Chinese citizens. They may, however, apply for permission to visit for business, education or family visits. Mainland Chinese citizens residing in Fujian can travel to [[Matsu]] for tourism. Citizens of mainland China residing in Hong Kong, Macau or overseas, can apply for the entry permit online for multiple purposes including tourism. Citizens of mainland China residing anywhere may transit through Taiwan from either [[Nanchang]], [[Chongqing]], [[Kunming]] or anywhere outside the mainland with only Mainland Chinese passport required. For example, a Mainland Chinese citizen who studies in the United States, had returned to Shanghai and plans to visit Taiwan during the stay in Shanghai. A valid travel plan is to buy a flight ticket from Shanghai to Taipei with a connection to a third country or territory (Hong Kong, in this case). When leaving Shanghai, show your Hong Kong and Macao Travel Permit to the immigration officer and declare your destination is Hong Kong. When entering Taiwan, present your Taiwan Entry Permit to Taiwanese immigration officer. Holders of valid passports from '''[[Hong Kong]]''' (HKSAR or BN(O)) and '''[[Macau]]''' who were born in either of these territories, may apply for a 30-day entry permit online (free) or on arrival (NT$300). Holders of these passports born outside these territories may also apply for these permits if they have been to Taiwan previously as a Hong Kong/Macau resident. (If they last visited Taiwan before 1983 they need to supply the travel document used then or first apply for their travel records from the Immigration Agency.) Hong Kong and Macau residents born outside of these territories and have not been to Taiwan before HK/Macau residents must apply for a permit online before traveling to Taiwan (NT$600). Hong Kong and Macau residents who also have another passport (except BN(O) or a Portuguese passport obtained before the handover) must use the other passport (and apply for the correct visa, if required) to enter Taiwan and not their Hong Kong/Macau passport. Macau residents using a Portuguese passport may enter visa-free like other Portuguese passport holders. ====Arrival card==== Arrival cards can be filled [https://niaspeedy.immigration.gov.tw/webacard/ online] before your arrival. Traditional paper versions are still available at ports of entry and on incoming flights. Hong Kong and Macau residents who have an online entry permit are exempt from filling arrival cards. ====eGate==== Foreigners aged 10 and above with a Taiwanese residence permit, as well citizens of [[Australia]], [[Germany]], [[Italy]], [[Malaysia]], [[Singapore]] and [[South Korea]], as well as [[United States]] citizens with membership in [[Global Entry]], may register to use the [https://www.immigration.gov.tw/5475/5478/6928/6931/ eGates], which allows you to skip the queues at immigration on subsequent visits to Taiwan on the same passport. ====Customs==== Fresh fruit and meat may not be brought into Taiwan, and airport staff may check your bags. If you are carrying anything prohibited, though, they might let you eat it before you go through immigration. Importing pork products (including jerky and cup noodles with meat bits) carries a fine of NT$200,000. Detection dogs are everywhere. === By plane === * '''[[Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport]]''' '''(Taipei)''' ({{lang|zh-TW|臺灣桃園國際機場}}, formerly ''Chiang Kai-Shek International Airport'' {{lang|zh-TW|中正國際機場}}) ({{IATA|TPE}}) is the primary international airport of Taiwan. Located 40 km west of Taipei, it has good connections to neighbouring countries and North America, and decent connections to Europe and Oceania. It is a major air hub for people travelling between North America and Southeast Asia. The airport has a MRT (metro/subway) connection to [[Taipei]], and direct buses to Taipei, [[Taichung]] and other nearby cities. Alternatively, the MRT train and U-Bus company shuttles reach HSR Taoyuan station ({{lang|zh-TW|台灣高鐵桃園站}}) for high-speed train connections to other cities; and to Zhongli Station ({{lang|zh-TW|中壢車站}}) for mainline TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration {{lang|zh-TW|台灣鐵路管理局}}) train and southbound bus connections to [[Tainan]], [[Hsinchu]] ({{lang|zh-TW|新竹}}) etc. * [http://www.kia.gov.tw '''Kaohsiung International Airport'''] ({{lang|zh-TW|高雄國際機場}}, also known as ''Siaogang Airport'' {{lang|zh-TW|小港機場}}) ({{IATA|KHH}}) is the largest airport in southern Taiwan near downtown Kaohsiung, with decent connections to neighbouring countries and domestic destinations. The airport has a MRT (metro/subway) connection to Kaohsiung to HSR Zuoying station ({{lang|zh-TW|台灣高鐵左營站}}) and TRA Kaohsiung station ({{lang|zh-TW|台鐵高雄車站}}). * [https://www.tsa.gov.tw/ '''Songshan Airport''']{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ({{lang|zh-TW|臺北松山機場}}) ({{IATA|TSA}}) is a smaller airport in downtown Taipei which serves mostly domestic flights with some flights to mainland China, Tokyo Haneda Airport, and Seoul Gimpo Airport. * [https://www.tca.gov.tw '''Taichung Airport''']{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ({{lang|zh-TW|臺中機場}}, also known as ''Ching Chuan Kang Airport'' {{lang|zh-TW|臺中清泉崗機場}}) ({{IATA|RMQ}}) is the only airport in central Taiwan. It is in Shalu ({{lang|zh-TW|沙鹿}}), a suburb area in Taichung. It serves domestic and international flights to mainland China, Hong Kong, Japan, Macau, South Korea, and Vietnam. The only public transportation connection to downtown Taichung is buses. * '''[https://www.hulairport.gov.tw/ Hualien Airport]''' ({{lang|zh-TW|花蓮機場}}) ({{IATA|HUN}}) located on the eastern coast of Taiwan which serves mostly domestic routes, but also an international flight from South Korea. The main Taiwanese full-service carriers are [https://www.evaair.com/ '''EVA Air'''] ({{lang|zh-TW|長榮航空}}), flag carrier [https://www.china-airlines.com/ '''China Airlines'''] ({{lang|zh-TW|中華航空}}), and [https://www.starlux-airlines.com/ '''Starlux Arilines'''] ({{lang|zh-TW|星宇航空}}). While China Airlines used to have a poor safety record, things have improved greatly since 2003, and today, it is just as safe as the major Western European airlines. The only Taiwanese low-cost carrier is [https://www.tigerairtw.com/ '''Tigerair Taiwan'''] ({{lang|zh-TW|台灣虎航}}) under the China Airlines Group. === By boat === From June 2026, a regular ferry between Taiwan and Japan is available: The [https://yaimaline.com/en/ Yaima Line] travels between [[Keelung]] and [[Okinawa]] ([[Ishigaki]] Island, specifically) once or twice a week. The overnight trip takes about 8 hours, and fares start from 2000 NTD in "Standard G" class with shared tatami mats. In addition, local travel agencies in Taiwan and Japan can also book regular cruises between Keelung and Okinawa. ====To Matsu==== From [[Fuzhou]] ({{lang|zh-TW|福州}}), China, there are two daily ferries to the Taiwan-controlled [[Matsu]] ({{lang|zh-TW|馬祖}}) islands. Take bus 69 from Fuzhou train station to Wuyilu, then bus 73 to the end station Mawei harbor ({{lang|zh-TW|馬尾港}}). The ferry costs RMB350 from China and NT$1,300 from Matsu. The trip takes two hours. You can check the Matsu tourism website for [https://www.matsu-nsa.gov.tw/user/Article.aspx?a=505&l=2 updates on the schedule]. There is a cheaper (NT$650) ferry between Matsu's northern island and the nearest point of mainland China, on the Huangqi peninsula, but because of limitations to immigration facilities, it apparently only accepts Taiwan/ROC citizens as passengers at this time ([https://www.matsu-nsa.gov.tw/user/Article.aspx?a=781&l=1 schedules and fares]). From Matsu, there the ''Taima Star'' ferry runs daily to [[Keelung]] in Taiwan ([http://www.shinhwa.com.tw/index.php Official website]{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} / [https://www.matsu-nsa.gov.tw/user/Article.aspx?a=128&l=2 English information]). NT$1,050 includes a bed, as the trip takes 10 hours. Regular seats are available for NT$630 only when the sleeping cabins are full ([http://www.shinhwa.com.tw/price.htm official fare table]{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}). Schedules can be found at [http://www.shinhwa.com.tw/harbor.php this link]{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Bookings can be made at +886 2 2424 6868 or [https://www.matsuebs.com/html/custorder/36 online]{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. ====To Kinmen==== There are also [https://kinmen.travel/en/information/kinmen several ferry services] between [[Xiamen]] and [[Quanzhou]] on the mainland and the Taiwan-controlled island of [[Kinmen]] ({{lang|zh-TW|金門}}). There is no ferry from Kinmen to the main island of Taiwan, though flights may be reasonably priced. ====Direct to the main island of Taiwan==== All direct ferries are indefinitely suspended. Two companies operated services prior to 2020 which might resume at some point, though no such resumption has been announced as of July 2025. <!-- The ''Cosco Star'' runs overnight between [[Keelung]] in northern Taiwan and [[Xiamen]] on the mainland, between Keelung and Daimaiyu Port near [[Taizhou]] on the mainland, and between [[Taichung]] in west-central Taiwan and Xiamen. Each leg of each route only runs on one day of the week (see [http://www.coscotw.com.tw/cht/asp/star-sch.asp here] for departure times of each route and [http://www.cosco.url.tw/hot.html here]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} for the latest calendar of operations). "Standard" one-way fares start at NT$3,500, but "basic" fares may be available for NT$2,490 ([http://www.coscotw.com.tw/cht/asp/star-tick.asp fare table]). On top of the fare there is an additional NT$300-550 in fuel and port surcharges, which varies depending on the route. There are substantial discounts for seniors (65+) and children (12 and under). The service's Taiwan-facing website is [http://www.coscotw.com.tw/cht/asp/star-main.asp here]. [http://www.taiwancsf.com CSF]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} operates fast ferries (about 3 hours) from [[Pingtan]] in mainland China to [[Taipei]] and [[Taichung]] in Taiwan. As of February 2019, the Taipei-Pingtan-Taipei route runs on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and the Pingtan-Taichung-Pingtan route runs on Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays ([http://www.taiwancsf.com/Content.aspx?sn=7 full schedule]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}). Adult fares for non-Taiwan citizens start at NT$3,500 one-way, $6,350 round-trip if purchased in advance ([http://www.taiwancsf.com/Content.aspx?sn=7 fare table]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}), a couple hundred more if purchased at the pier ([http://www.taiwancsf.com/content.aspx?sn=149 fare table]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}). Fares are cheaper for Taiwan/ROC citizens ([http://www.taiwancsf.com/content.aspx?sn=158 advance]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}/[http://www.taiwancsf.com/content.aspx?sn=159 pier]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. --> == Get around == ===''IC Cards''=== [[Taipei]]'s '''[https://www.easycard.com.tw/ EasyCard]''' ({{lang|zh-TW|悠遊卡}} Yōuyóukǎ) and [[Kaohsiung]]'s '''[https://www.i-pass.com.tw/EN/ iPass]''' ({{lang|zh-TW|一卡通}}) are the main public transportation smart and electronic payment cards, and replace the need to buy separate tickets for most national, regional and city buses, metro (MRT), as well as train services (TRA) all over Taiwan, and they can be used at retail establishments that display the respective sign, like convenient stores (7Eleven, Family Mart), parking lots and some restaurants and shops. Though originally accepted only in their respective cities, the two cards can now be used interchangeably at most (but not all) locations. Besides saving you the hassle of having proper change ready for your ticket, it mostly always gives discount on the chosen journeys. For instance, the price for any train (TRA) is calculated based on the price of a local train and a 10% discount. Thus, you can even take the faster trains with it (but not THSR) like the Tzu-Chiang limited express. The only disadvantage is that you will not have a reserved seat, which however is not an issue except on Saturday morning/noon and Sunday afternoon. The EasyCard also provides discounts on [[Taipei#Get around|Taipei's public transportation network]], and likewise with the iPass on Kaohsiung's network. The EasyCard can be bought at the airport, in any of stations of Taipei MRT and most convenient stores. As of 2025 the price was NT$500, consisting of a non-refundable fee of NT$100 and NT$400 in electronic cash. If you want to add money onto the card, you can do so in MRT stations (including Kaohsiung MRT), TRA stations, and the common convenient stores. The card can hold amounts up to NT$5,000. Student IC cards with even deeper discounts are also available for purchase, but only upon request at a desk and a recognised student ID like ISIC. Whether the card needs to be tapped only once or twice on city buses (on entry or on exit, see [[#By bus|below]]) depends on which city you are in and sometimes how far you travel. Do not forget to tap twice (on entry '''and''' exit) when necessary, especially on regional and national buses outside of cities (and some unstaffed railway stations). Otherwise, your card will be blocked with "incomplete journey" (for all bus companies), and you will have to settle this issue with the responsible bus company. This can be a problem, because bus companies only serve certain regions. When leaving that region, e.g. by train, which is still possible with a (bus) locked card, no-one will be willing to unlock your card, even though also other bus companies are able to do so. Be insistent and with the help of the tourist information center tell them that you cannot go back to fix the problem, or that you tried and they did not solve the issue even though they told you so. Make sure that it is really unlocked (with a different bus company) and do not just trust them &ndash; it seems some cannot operate their machines properly. If you forget to tap the second time, you will only be charged a small initial fee instead of the whole journey, but unless you are at the end of your vacation to Taiwan or possess a second card, you should avoid having your card blocked. That said, most bus drivers and railway staff pay close attention to the tapping, so it is hard to miss. It costs NT$14 to get in and out of the same railway station within an hour, in case you instead decide to take the bus. At the end of your travel, do not put too much money onto your card, because it can only be given back and cashed-out at certain locations, like some THSR stations. In addition to the NT$100 purchase fee, there is a NT$20 fee for returning the card within 3 months. === By train === {{main|Rail travel in Taiwan}} [[File:THSR 700T train at Taoyuan Station 20070728.jpg|thumb|Taiwan High Speed train]] Taiwan's train system is excellent, with stops in all major cities. Train stations are often in the centers of most cities and towns and serve as a convenient hub for most types of transportation. In addition, the train system allows you to bypass the highways, which can become extremely crowded on weekends and national holidays. The main downside is the lack of cross-island routes between the East Coast and West Coast; for instance, there is no rail line from Taichung to Hualien, so you will have to either drive, fly, or take a major detour via Taipei or Kaohsiung. The backbone of the West Coast's train system is the '''[https://en.thsrc.com.tw/ Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR)]'''. It runs between [[Taipei]] and [[Kaohsiung]], taking as little as 95 minutes between the two cities. The train is mostly based on Shinkansen technology from Japan, with bookings made easily online or by phone. The rest of the mainline network is run by '''Taiwan Railways''' (TRC/TRA). TR runs railways around the entire island, forming a rather circular loop network, including the East Coast, which is not served by THSR. Several cities across the country, such as Taipei, Taoyuan, Taichung and Kaohsiung have their own urban rail transit systems. This is in addition to TRC's local train lines which also operate in the cities. Both TRC/TRA and THSR have their own rail passes, but they are only valid for their respective services – see [[rail travel in Taiwan]] for detailed information on rail passes. ====Alishan Forest Railway==== The '''[https://afrch.forest.gov.tw/En Alishan Forest Railway]''' is an 86 km narrow gauge railway running from [[Chiayi]] to [[Alishan]], with branch lines running from Alishan to [[Chushan]] and [[Shihou]]. Built by the Japanese for logging in 1912, it is today operated as a heritage railway for tourists, [https://afrch.forest.gov.tw/EN/0000115 taking about 5 hours to get from Chiayi to Alishan and 4 hours for the return journey]. One of the intermediate stations, [[Fenqihu]], is famous for its local version of the railway bento. ===By bus=== Taiwan has an extensive bus network, run mostly by private bus companies. Traveling by bus is generally cheaper than by train, especially for long-distance trips. However, on holidays, travel time may be much longer and tickets are more likely to be sold out. There are two categories: intercity buses ({{lang|zh-TW|客運}}) and local buses ({{lang|zh-TW|公車}}). Taiwan Tourist Shuttle is a set of distinctly branded bus routes (some intercity, some local) that serve tourist sites, and are generally easier to use than regular routes. The official website offers route maps, timetables and recommended itineraries, but is somewhat confusing to navigate. There is, however, a toll-free number for inquiries. There are also information desks at major transport hubs. [[File:Taipei Bus 1073 stop board.jpg|thumb|Older bus stop sign in Taipei]] Many cities have local buses. They are managed by local governments, therefore information can generally be found on the websites of the respective transportation bureaus. Drivers are usually happy to help, but may not speak English or any other foreign language. Route maps at bus stops are mostly in Chinese. For visitors, it may be helpful to have your hotel or accommodation host suggest some routes for you and circle your destination on a map, then show it to the bus driver to make sure you're on the right bus. Announcements are in English, but hopefully the driver will remember to tell you when to get off in case you miss it. Most buses accept either cash (no change) or IC cards (like the EasyCard). Minor cities and towns do not have local buses, but have intercity routes that make frequent stops. These can be found using the method in the previous paragraph. Occasionally a bus driver might stop a bus away from the curb at a bus stop. Sometimes it is due to a vehicle illegally parked at a bus stop. (Taiwanese traffic law and regulation prohibit vehicles from stopping or parking within 10&nbsp;m (33&nbsp;ft) of a bus stop.) However, a bus driver might stop a bus away from the curb just because he or she does not want to wait for overtaking traffic while leaving a bus stop. Therefore, be ''much more careful'' when getting on or off a bus stopped away from a curb, as many motorcycles, motor scooters, and bicycles will definitely be tempted to overtake on the right side of the stopped bus where people get on and off! (As traffic drives on the right side of the road in Taiwan, buses have doors on the right side.) In Taiwan you need to hail the bus you are taking as you see it coming—much like hailing a taxi. Be assertive when hailing the bus, otherwise it may not stop. The terminal stop of the route is listed on the front of the bus in Chinese and sometimes English, so it is important to make sure the bus you get on is going the right direction. For city buses, sometimes you pay when boarding, sometimes when alighting, sometimes both (whether with cash or an IC card). As you get on the bus there will be an LED sign indicating that, opposite the entrance. Sometimes it's only in Chinese: {{lang|zh-TW|上}} means on boarding, {{lang|zh-TW|下}} means on alighting (or just watch other people). In some cities such as Kaohsiung and Taichung, failing to swipe your card correctly will result in a locked card. ====Navigation==== Google Maps is a quick way to find a route to your destination, but is not always reliable, especially for trips with changes and for longer distance (like in the south and southwest). Often it will highly overstate bus travel times, because it will consider each stop while the bus might only stop at every third or fourth. Hence, a trip from Kaohsiung or Pingtung to Kenting will be stated with 3-4 hr, even though it will just take 1 hr. Therefore, it will also often suggesting the wrong connections and transfers. However, it gives a very good indication on the possible route, vehicle number(s), frequency, availability and price of buses and trains. Besides, the ''Bus+'' app (Android/iOS) is quite reliable with schedules. You can find bus numbers on it, and it will list its (live) route. This is much easier than reading the Chinese bus stop signs. In combination with Google Maps route search it is quite handy. === By metro === [[File:VAL256 and Concord Securities Building 20050320.jpg|thumb|Taipei MRT]] The following areas are served by metro, also known as MRT: * [[Taipei]] and [[New Taipei]] by [https://www.metro.taipei/ Taipei Metro] * [[Linkou|Linkou Plateau]], [[New Taipei]], Taoyuan International Airport and Zhongli District in northeastern [[Taoyuan|Taoyaun City]] from Taipei Main Station by [https://www.tymetro.com.tw/tymetro-new/en/index.php Taoyuan Metro]. Separate access points from the Taipei Metro at the Taipei Main Station. * [[Taichung]] by [https://www.tmrt.com.tw/eng Taichung MRT] * [[Kaohsiung]] by [https://www.krtc.com.tw/eng/ Kaohsiung MRT] It is prohibited to eat, drink or smoke in all metro systems past the fare gates. If multiple journeys are to be made, one can purchase a rechargeable IC card. There are 4 cards: EasyCard ({{lang|zh-TW|悠遊卡}}), iPASS ({{lang|zh-TW|一卡通}}), icash and HappyCash. For basic MRT transport purposes there is little difference between them. All metro systems are reliable, safe, clean and accessible. Disruptions are rare. The Taipei Metro in particular is widely lauded as one of the world's most reliable and efficient, and is often held up as a gold standard for other Metro systems around the world to emulate. Nearly all stations have toilets, elevators and info desks. There are also special waiting areas that is monitored by security camera for those who are concerned about security late at night. === By taxi === {{infobox|Betel nut beauties ({{lang|zh-TW|檳榔西施}}) |The highways of Taiwan are lined with brightly lit booths staffed by attractive, skimpily dressed young women, but they're not plying the world's oldest trade; instead, they're betel nut beauties, who compete for the attention of customers to sell the mildly addictive stimulant '''betel''' ({{lang|zh-TW|檳榔}} ''bīnláng''), consisting of areca nuts and slaked lime wrapped in a betel leaf, not themselves. Betel itself is worth a try and there is a chance you will be offered it in the company of farmers or working-class Taiwanese. Be warned, it stains your teeth blood red. To consume it, bite and spit off the cap at the top of the nut, then chew the rest of the bundle. Only the first mouthful of saliva must be spit and afterwards one can either choose to spit or swallow and enjoy the buzz. One sampling on your trip shouldn't be a problem, but do keep in mind that this little treat is habit-forming and cancer-causing for long-term users. Due to the known health risks, consumption of betel nuts is declining, and betel nut beauties are becoming increasingly few and far between.}} Taxis are very common in major Taiwanese cities. You do not need to look for a taxi, they'll be looking for you. The standard yellow taxis scour roads looking for potential riders such as lost foreigners. It is possible but generally unnecessary to phone for a taxi. To hail one, simply place your hand in front of you parallel to the ground. But they'll often stop for you even if you're just waiting to cross the street or for a bus. In less heavily trafficked areas further out from the transit hubs, taxis are always available by calling taxi dispatch centers or using mobile apps. Drivers generally cannot converse in English or any other foreign language or read Westernized addresses (except for special Taoyuan airport taxis). Get the hotel staff or a Taiwanese friend write out your destination in Chinese, and also take a business card from the hotel. Show the driver the Chinese writing of where you are going. Taxis are visibly metered (starting point priced at NT$70), and taxi drivers are strictly forbidden from taking tips. A maximum of four people can ride in one cab, and for the price of one. Compared to European or American taxis, those in Taiwan are inexpensive. Although taxi drivers in Taiwan tend to be more honest than in many other countries, not all are trustworthy. An indirect trip might cost you half again as much. A cab driver using night-time rates during the daytime will cost you 30% more (make sure he presses the large button on the left on his meter before 23:00). Avoid the especially overzealous drivers who congregate at the exits of train stations. Also, stand your ground and insist on paying meter price only if any driving on mountain roads is involved. Some drivers like to tack on surcharges or use night-time rates if driving to places like [[Wenshan]] ({{lang|zh-TW|文山}}) or [[Wulai]] ({{lang|zh-TW|烏來}}). Such attempts to cheat are against the law. From Taoyuan Airport (TPE), buses are a much more economical option but if you want a direct route Taoyuan airport drivers are the best choice. They're quite comfortable and get you to your destination as quick as possible. All the TPE taxi drivers are interlinked by radio so they could be forewarned if there are police. Sometimes, if there are traffic jams and no police around, the driver will drive in the emergency lane. Taxis from TPE to destinations in Tao Yuan, parts of Taipei county and some other destinations are 'allowed' to add an additional 50% to the meter fare. The badge and taxi driver identification are displayed inside and the license number marked on the outside. You must also be wary that the driver turns on his meter, otherwise he might rip you off. In such a case, you aren't obliged to pay; but make sure you can find a police officer to settle the matter. If there are stories of passengers boarding fake taxis and being attacked by the driver, it is best not to be paranoid about it. Drivers may be more worried about passengers attacking them! If you do call a taxi dispatch center, you will be given a taxi number to identify the vehicle when it arrives. Generally, dispatch is extremely rapid and efficient, as the taxis are constantly monitoring dispatch calls from the headquarters using radio while they are on the move. This is also the safest way to take a taxi, especially for women. Taxis are also a flexible although relatively expensive way to travel to nearby cities. They have the advantage over the electric trains in that they run very late at night. Drivers are required to provide a receipt if asked, though you might find them unwilling to do so. Taxi drivers, as elsewhere in Asia, are not keen on exchanging large notes. Try to keep some smaller denomination notes on hand to avoid the hassle of fighting with the driver for change. Taxi drivers are known for their strong political opinions. Many are supporters of the pan-green coalition and Taiwanese independence, spending all day listening to Taiwanese political talk radio. Be careful about your opinions on sensitive political subjects (including, but not necessarily limited to cross-strait relations). In addition, if you see what looks like blood spewing from the driver's mouth, or him spitting blood onto the street—not to fret–it's merely him chewing betel nut (see box). Taxi drivers are generally friendly towards foreigners, and a few of them take the opportunity to try their limited English skills. They are most likely to ask you about yourself, and are a patient audience to your attempts at speaking Mandarin. If you are traveling with small children, don't be surprised if they are given candy when you disembark. Women are sometimes warned not to take taxis alone at night. This is not an extreme risk, although there have been incidents where women have been attacked. To be more safe, women can have the hotel or restaurant phone a cab for them (ensuring a licensed driver), have a companion write down the license number of the driver (clearly displayed on the dashboard), or keep a cell phone handy. Do not get in if the driver doesn't have a license with picture clearly displayed in the cab. === By car === [[File:Traffic restored on the 133K~135K section of Provincial Highway 21.jpg|thumb|View of Yushan Scenic Highway]] ==== License ==== The ability to drive in Taiwan with an international driving license (IDP) depends on reciprocal agreements between Taiwan and the issuing country of the IDP. The list of reciprocal agreements can be found on the website of the [https://www.thb.gov.tw/en/News.aspx?n=878&sms=12831 Highway Bureau]. Foreigners can drive in Taiwan up to 30 days with an IDP. The duration can be extended for up to one year at the local Department of Motor Vehicles. Beyond that duration, you'll need to apply for a local permit. ==== Renting and driving ==== [http://www.vipcar.com.tw/ VIP Rentals] in [[Taipei]] is quite happy to rent cars to foreigners, and will even deliver the car to a given destination. A deposit is often required, and the last day of rental is not pro-rated, but calculated on a per-hour basis at a separate (higher) rate. The numbered highway system is very good in Taiwan. Most traffic signs are in international symbols, but many signs only show the names of places and streets in Chinese. All road directional signs are written in both Chinese and English, though the non-standardized Romanization means that English names can vary between road signs, making it rather confusing. The highways are in excellent shape with toll stations around every 30 km (19 mi). Tolls are charged electronically and you pay the rental company when you return the car. Traffic moves on the right in Taiwan. Parking in cities is generally charged. An attendant will put a payment slip under your windscreen wiper, you can pay at convenience stores. While driving may be the best way to get around the countryside, in larger cities, traffic jams are a problem as is the difficulty of finding a good parking space, especially during the rush hour and traffic tends to get chaotic. In [[Taipei]] and [[Kaohsiung]], you can better off relying on public transport. Other larger cities, such as [[Taichung]], can be a tricky case - while the downtown traffic may as chaotic as in Taipei and Kaohsiung, their public transport, which usually relies on buses, isn't as convenient as in Taipei and Kaohsiung. For such cities, a scooter, or public transport with rental bicycles is a choice in downtown. In the suburbs, a car is a better choice than public transport. === By scooter or motorcycle === Scooters are commonplace in Taiwan and the primary mean of transportation outside big cities. To legally ride of a scooter of any size (incl 50cc) in Taiwan a valid license is required. Although holders of Taiwanese car license issued [https://law.moj.gov.tw/LawClass/LawSingle.aspx?pcode=K0040013&flno=61 before June 2023] can drive a 50cc scooter without an extra license, this does not apply to licenses issued abroad. An IDP (see "By Car" above) is required, with the relevant category (A1 for light motorcycles). There is no easy way for foreigners on tourist visa to get a local scooter license, so you'll need to get a scooter IDP in advance. In less busy, more touristic areas, you might find rental shops willing to turn a blind eye if you don't have the right paperwork, but at your own risk (no insurance coverage, etc.). 50cc scooters (green plates) are increasingly rate. The more powerful versions known as ''zhongxing'' ({{lang|zh-TW|重型}}, heavy format) scooters are now quite common and can be rented for short-term use, or found for sale at [http://www.englishintaiwan.com English In Taiwan] if you're going to need it for a while. They are '''not''' allowed on freeways even if they are capable of going faster than 100 km/h (62 mph) unless used for certain police purposes, but that just means you have to take the scenic route. If you're just learning to drive a scooter on the streets of Taiwan, it would be a good idea to practice a bit on a back road or alley until you have a feel for the scooter. Attempting to do so in the busier cities could easily be fatal. Certainly, things can get pretty hairy on Taiwanese roads and Taipei in particular has narrower more congested roads than many other cities. However, if you know what you're doing, it's the perfect way to get around in a city. It should be possible to rent a scooter by the day, week or month, depending on the city in which you're staying. One Taipei motorcycle and scooter rental service with English language service is [http://www.bikefarm.net Bikefarm], which is run by a very friendly and helpful English guy called Jeremy. In Taichung, Foreigner Assistance Services In Taiwan '''[http://www.englishintaiwan.com/foreignerservices/fast.php F.A.S.T]''' offers a rental service for foreign visitors. Otherwise, scooters are generally easy to rent in most major cities, with many such places being near railway or bus stations. Most usually require some form of identification even if, in some cases, it consists of your expired Blockbuster video card! The average price you may expect is NT$400 for 24 hours, this includes one or two helmets. Another option is to rent a motorcycle. Many foreigners swear by their 125cc Wild Wolf ({{lang|zh-TW|野狼}}) motorcycles, and a trip around the island on a motorcycle can be a great way to see the island up close. It is to be mentioned that since 2007, scooters and motorcycles over 550cc are allowed to go on expressways providing that they have a red license plate. They are however to be considered as cars, and as such cannot be parked in scooter parking spaces. === By thumb === While Taiwanese themselves don't generally [[Hitchhiking|hitchhike]], foreigners will have it very easy to find a hitch. However, in rural areas people may not recognize the thumb in the air symbol, and you may try pointing your hand to the ground and waving towards you. It is very easy to flag down a car in rural and mountain regions. So, instead of waiting for that one bus a day that goes by, just hitch a ride. Flagging down a car might work on a country lane with little or no public transportation, but doing so on a major road might lead to confusion, with the driver assuming that you are in trouble. A sign, especially one in Chinese, would therefore be of great help. The East coast around Hualien and Taitung enjoys a reputation for being especially good for getting rides. Taiwanese people are very friendly and helpful, so striking up a conversation with someone at a transport café or freeway service station may well see you on your way. === By bicycle === Although Taiwan is known for being a major player in the [[cycling|bicycle]] industry (through companies such as Giant and Merida), bicycles used to be considered an unwanted reminder of less prosperous times. This has changed, and cycling is again on the rise, both as a tool for commuting and recreation, and support infrastructure is slowly being put into place. Several bike paths have been built, and recreational cycling has become quite popular amongst locals, especially on weekends. However, you should also be aware that local drivers have a well deserved reputation for recklessness. As such, you should exercise extreme caution when cycling outside of designated bicycle lanes and trails. The government has been promoting bicycling as a method of clean recreation. Several designated bicycle paths have been built throughout Taiwan (especially along riverside parks). Additionally, long distance rides, including through the Central Mountain Range, and along the coastline around the main island have become popular. The government maintains [https://taiwanbike.tw/en web-site dedicated to long-distance cycling] in which you can search for trails, the centerpiece of which is the Taiwan Cycle Route No. 1 ({{lang|zh-TW|環島1號線}}) that circumnavigates the entire island, covering about 968km. For long distance trips, bicycles can be shipped using the standard freight service from the Taiwan Railway Administration between larger stations. Non-folding bicycles may also be transported aboard the Taipei and Kaohsiung rapid transit systems if loaded at specific stations, during off peak hours (usually 10:00-16:00 on weekdays, check with your local station personnel to confirm). * [https://www.metro.taipei/cp.aspx?n=F299BF5B3142389A Taipei MRT Route Map], bicycles may be loaded at designated stations * [http://www.krtco.com.tw/en/guide_StipulationsforPassengerswithBicycles.aspx Kaohsiung MRT Bicycle Information]{{Dead link|date=April 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (passengers traveling with non-folding bicycles are assessed a flat rate NT$60 fare irrespective of distance) Giant Bicycles Corporation operates a large network of bicycle retail stores that offer '''rentals''' for as little as NT$100 per day, if requested one week in advance. Generally, the day rate is around NT$300 for a modern bicycle. Also, rented bicycles can be picked up at one station and given back another station. This can be convenient if you want to go down the quiet east coast with a bicycle and back up the busy west coast with the train/bus. A one week finesse bike including bags costs as little as €100. Public shared bicycles are also available for rent at automated kiosks in most Taiwanese cities. Rental fees are usually paid using the rapid transit EasyCard or iPass system. There is YouBike in Taipei, which are available all over the city and even 30&nbsp;km out &ndash; see [[Taipei]] for more details. Additionally, many local police stations provide basic support services for cyclists, such as air pumps, and as a rest stop. === By plane === [[File:UNI Air MD-90-30 (B-17918) at Kaohsiung International Airport.jpg|thumb|Domestic plane, Taiwan]] Domestic air travel in Taiwan is primarily for outlying islands, as Taiwan is fairly compact with a modern and efficient rail network. There are also routes that connect the east and west coasts, since there is a geographical barrier between the two. There are no longer any west coast only routes as [[high speed rail]] has made them redundant. The main carriers are '''[http://www.mandarin-airlines.com/ Mandarin Airlines]''', a subsidiary of China Airlines; and '''[http://www.uniair.com.tw/ UNI Air]''', owned by EVA. Fares for domestic flights are not too expensive. The domestic airport in Taipei is [http://www.tsa.gov.tw/tsa/en/home.aspx Songshan Airport]{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, which is in the north of the Taipei and easily reached by MRT or taxi. Other domestic airports include those in [[Taitung]], [[Hualien]], [[Makung]] (Penghu/Pescadores), [[Kinmen]], [[Taichung]], [[Nangan]] and [[Beigan]]. Travelers heading to [[Kenting]] can use the direct and frequent bus service from Kaohsiung airport that connect with flights arriving from Taipei. If you want to visit Taiwan's smaller islands, the plane is still the best option, and is the only practical option for traveling to [[Kinmen]] and the easiest method of reaching [[Penghu]] and [[Matsu]]. For travel to Green Island and [[Orchid Island]], the plane from Taitung saves several hours over taking the ferry which is notorious among Taiwanese for its rough ride. ===By boat=== Ferries connect the main island of Taiwan with some of the outlying islands. There are ferries from [[Keelung]] to the [[Matsu]] islands, from [[Kaohsiung]] to the [[Penghu]] islands, and from [[Taitung]] to [[Orchid Island]] and [[Green Island (Taiwan)|Green Island]]. There are no passenger ferries from the main island of Taiwan to [[Kinmen]]. ===On foot and navigation=== Taiwan is an excellent place for hiking and trekking, providing many interesting and picturesque trails in its mountainous center, or just northeast of Taipei. For reliable maps, [[GPS navigation]], comprehensive trails and map information, consult [https://www.openstreetmap.org/ OpenStreetMap], which is also used by this travel guide, and by many mobile Apps like [https://osmand.net/ OsmAnd] or [https://en.mapy.cz/ Mapy.cz]. Or just download the according GPX or KML files through [https://hiking.waymarkedtrails.org/ Waymarked Trails] for such trails on OpenStreetMap. (Note, you just need to change the OpenStreetMap relation ID to download additional GPX or KML files through the same link.) == See == Perhaps due to its political ambiguity and lack of global presence, Taiwan has traditionally not been a significant destination for Westerners, though this is changing. Nevertheless tourists from [[Japan]] and [[Hong Kong]] have been visiting Taiwan in droves for a long time, and they are being joined by an increasing number of Koreans and Southeast Asians. The island is home to many cultural attractions, with an excellent selection right in the capital. Taipei is a bustling and modern metropolis, with ancient yet lively streets, and world-famous landmarks like '''Taipei 101'''. However, it's also home to the '''National Palace Museum''', '''Zhongshan Hall''', '''Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall''' and the beautifully restored '''Bao'an Temple'''. Bao'an is just one of many striking temple complexes worth a visit. For more, try the '''Zushi Temple''' in [[Sanxia]] or the '''Mazu temple''' in [[Makung]]. The large '''Longshan Temple''' in [[Lukang]] and the '''Confucian Temples''' of [[Changhua]] and [[Tainan]] are fine choices too. Tainan is the oldest city in Taiwan and therefore full of historic sites, especially colonial buildings, and including the Anping "Tree House" that's being slowly reclaimed by banyan trees. If you're looking for some deeper insights in Taiwan's history and culture, there's a wide range of '''museums''' to be explored, pretty much wherever you go. This island is home to bustling cities with modern, high-tech infrastructure, and good transportation infrastructure means that getting around is easy. For those who have grown weary of the hustle and bustle of cities, Taiwan also offers some very impressive scenery and charming historical villages in its rural areas. === Nature === [[File:Taiwan 2009 HuaLien Taroko Gorge Narrow Gap and Road PB140025.jpg|thumb|200px|Taroko Gorge, Taroko National Park]] Some people think of Taiwan as a grimy, densely populated industrial island full of hard disk factories, and you may well maintain this perception if you only stick to the densely populated West Coast. However, for those who take time to venture to the more sparsely populated East Coast will quickly find that Taiwan is actually home to some stunning landscapes. The [[Taroko Gorge]] ({{lang|zh-TW|太魯閣}}) near [[Hualien]] in particular is very impressive, and should not be missed, with a side trip to the rugged shores at ''Shihtiping'' ({{lang|zh-TW|石梯坪}}) as a worthwhile detour. '''Hehuan Mountain''' and '''[[Sun Moon Lake]]''' are beautiful natural attractions near [[Nantou]], while the huge and ancient trees in '''[[Lalashan]]''' make for great hikes near [[Taoyuan]]. In fact, most of Taiwan is covered with mountains which offer breathtaking views, so hiking opportunities are very diverse. == Do == ===Hot Springs=== Taiwan's geographical location between an oceanic trench and volcanic system makes it an ideal hot spring ({{lang|zh-TW|溫泉}} ''wēnquán)'' vacation spot. There are several hot springs destinations throughout the country, including [[Beitou]] ({{lang|zh-TW|北投}}), [[Wulai]] ({{lang|zh-TW|烏來}}) and [[Yangmingshan]] ({{lang|zh-TW|陽明山}}). Hot spring bathing was introduced by the Japanese during the colonial period, and remains firmly entrenched in the local culture to this day. At traditional establishments segregated by sex (often lablled {{lang|zh-TW|大眾裸湯}} ''dàzhòng luǒ tāng'') you will be required to bathe nude. However, many other places, particular those geared for foreigners, are unisex and require a bathing suit. If you do not feel comfortable getting naked in front of strangers, some hot spring resorts may offer private baths at an extra cost, where you and your group have the entire bath to yourselves. Many Taiwanese hot spring resorts also offer traditional Chinese massage, which will cost extra on top of the admission fee. All hot springs will have shower areas where you ''must'' wash yourself and rinse off all the foam before entering the pool; not doing so is a major faux pas even if you are a foreigner. ===Hiking=== Taiwan is an island of huge mountains (more than two hundred peaks over 3,000m) and there are many hiking opportunities. [[Taroko Gorge]] is popular for its incredible scenery, and serious hikers can trek [[Yushan]] or Wuling Sixiu, among many others. Even in [[Taipei]] and [[New Taipei]] there are a variety of trails to suit hikers of any level. Serious trekking is rather complicated due to an advance booking requirement (usually 7 days) and lodging lottery&mdash;see http://np.cpami.gov.tw/{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Permits are required for many trails, especially remote or multi-day hikes and some (though not all!) in national parks. Nevertheless, there are also many trails available that do not need an application. They are mostly day hikes, but you can always put together your trip sections as preferred&mdash;consult apps that use [http://www.openstreetmap.org OpenStreetMap], like OsmAnd or Mapy.cz. They have comprehensive and reliable tracks available. ===Shrimping=== [[File:05.19 副總統出席「與友邦慶賀團元首釣蝦體驗在地文化活動」 - 53731069343.jpg|thumb|alt=William Lai, Hsiao Bi-khim, and a foreign ambassador are shrimping|Even politicians enjoy shrimping!]] Popular locally, and gaining traction with foreign tourists due to YouTube and travel bloggers, is the pastime of indoor '''shrimp fishing''' (釣蝦). For an hourly rate (around NT$300/hr), you will be provided with a fishing rod and a seat at an indoor shrimp pool that is regularly stocked with large live Thai prawns. While drinking beer and enjoying the laid back environment, you will be afforded an opportunity to catch dinner with locals. Almost all locales have a few indoor shrimp fishing pools to seek out. Almost all double as restaurants with tables and ovens available for use, allowing you to cook your catch on-site and order additional dishes as needed. === Sports === '''Baseball''' was brought to Taiwan by the Japanese during the colonial period. Its popularity rose greatly when the Taiwanese baseball team finished second in the Japanese national championships. Today, baseball retains a strong following and remains by far the most popular spectator sport in Taiwan. Several Taiwanese players have also gone on to successful careers in the U.S. Major League Baseball (MLB) and Japanese Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), and the Taiwanese national team is considered to be one of the strongest in the world. The top baseball league in Taiwan is the '''[https://en.cpbl.com.tw/ Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL)]''', which features six teams. CPBL teams are sponsored by and named after large Taiwanese and Japanese corporations. Besides baseball, basketball also has a sizeable following in Taiwan and is quite popular among teenagers. When classes are over, the basketball courts inside schools are not only open to students but also the public. Billiards<!--WHICH VARIANT(S)--> is another popular sport in Taiwan. It's easy to find billiard rooms throughout the country and there are also many championship-winning players in Taiwan, most of whom started training when they were still teens. Other sports which are popular include taekwondo, badminton, table tennis, tennis and golf. In international sporting competitions, such as the Olympic Games, Taiwan is called "Chinese Taipei" ({{lang|zh-TW|中華臺北}}) for political reasons. ===Events=== *{{Do|name=Awaken Music Festival|url=https://awaken-music-festival.com/en/|address=Taipei|hours=Annual event. 2025: 27-28 September|content=Dubbed the world’s only “Buddhist rave.” Traditional chants put to electronic and heavy metal music. Fringe events. Dharma topics in live discussion.}} * '''Buddha's Birthday''' ({{lang|zh-TW|佛祖誕辰}}) – Colorful but simple ceremonies are held at Buddhist monasteries that generally consist of washing a statue of the Buddha and a vegetarian feast. It is appropriate to make offerings to the monks and nuns at this time, though it is not mandatory. Lunar Calendar 8th day of 4th month. * '''Dragon Boat Festival''' ({{lang|zh-TW|龍舟賽}}) – A festival to commemorate the death of the Chinese patriotic poet Qu Yuan (born 340 BC), who drowned himself in a river out of despair that his beloved country, Chu, was being plundered by a neighboring country as a result of betrayal by his own people. The festival falls on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month (25 June 2020), and is marked by races of colorful dragon boats at various locations throughout the island. * '''Cherry Blossom Season''' ({{lang|zh-TW|櫻花季}}) – Every spring, in [[Yangmingshan]] ({{lang|zh-TW|陽明山}}). * '''Mazu Festival''' ({{lang|zh-TW|媽祖生}}) – Festival commemorating the traditional birthday of Mazu, a traditional Chinese goddess who is popularly worshipped in Taiwan. The biggest celebration is an eight-day long "inspection tour" of a Mazu statue from the Zhenlan Temple in [[Taichung]] to the Chaotian Temple in [[Southern Taiwan|Beigang]] and back, though many other temples throughout Taiwan's main island and the outlying islands also conduct their own festivities. Lunar Calendar 23rd day of 3rd month. * '''[https://www.amazing-pingtung.com/tmf Taiwan Music Festival]''' ({{lang|zh-TW|台灣祭}}) – It is usually held in April in Pingtung. === Traditional pastimes === Generally speaking, traditional Chinese games such as [[Go]] ({{lang|zh-TW|圍棋}} ''wéiqí'') and [[Xiangqi|Chinese chess]] ({{lang|zh-TW|象棋}} ''xiàngqí'') are popular in Taiwan too. Both games are played at the professional level in Taiwan, and there are numerous tournaments that visitors may watch. While gambling is illegal in Taiwan, '''[[mahjong]]''' (Mandarin: {{lang|zh-TW|麻將}} ''májiàng''; Taiwanese: {{lang|zh-TW|麻雀}} ''moâ-chhiok'') remains popular. The Taiwanese version of the game derives from the Fujianese form, which differs significantly from the better-known Cantonese and Japanese versions, most notably because a hand consists of 17 tiles instead of the 14 used in other versions. Mahjong in Taiwan is mostly a family and friends affair, and is usually played at social gatherings in people's houses. Mahjong clubs generally cater to groups of friends or family members looking to play together, though they can often assist in helping you find other players if you show up alone. While playing for money is not allowed at mahjong clubs due to Taiwan's anti-gambling laws, they will often allow you to exchange the points you win for various prizes. === Performing Arts === '''Glove puppet shows''' ({{lang|zh-TW|布袋戲}}) originated in Fujian province on mainland China, and were brought to Taiwan by the first Han Chinese immigrants. Nevertheless, they have since been somewhat modernised and taken on some uniquely Taiwanese characteristics. Another traditional Taiwanese type of performance is '''Taiwanese opera''' ({{lang|zh-TW|歌仔戲}}), which originated in [[Yilan]] based on traditional Chinese opera styles. Taiwan had long been a major center of Chinese '''pop culture''', but this has diminished significantly since the 2010s, as most of the top Taiwanese singers and actors have relocated to mainland China where they can make a lot more money. Nevertheless, Taiwan continues to have a substantial local entertainment industry, though these days it tends to have more of a niche following, including numerous political works that would not pass the censors in mainland China. == Buy == ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=New Taiwan dollars | currencyCode=NT$ | date=June 2026 | USD=31 | EUR=36 | GBP=42 | JPY=19 | KRW=20 | HKD=4.0 | SGD=24 | CNY=4.6 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/twd-taiwan-new-dollar XE.com] }} The currency of Taiwan is the '''New Taiwan dollar''', denoted by the symbol "'''NT$'''" ({{lang|zh-TW|新臺幣}} or {{lang|zh-TW|臺幣}}, ISO code: '''NTD''', but also referred to as TWD). The NT dollar is known locally as ''yuán'' ({{lang|zh-TW|元}} or more formally {{lang|zh-TW|圓}}) when written in Chinese or colloquially in Mandarin as the ''kuài'' ({{lang|zh-TW|塊}}). One unit is known colloquially as the ''kho&#x358;'' ({{lang|zh-TW|箍}}) in the Taiwanese dialect. One dollar is divided into 100 cents, known as a {{lang|zh-TW|分}} (''fēn'') in Chinese. 10 cents is formally known as a {{lang|zh-TW|角}} (''jiǎo''), and colloquially as a {{lang|zh-TW|毛}} (''máo'') in Chinese. Any '''$''' sign you see in Taiwan or this article refers to NTD unless it includes other initials (e.g. US$ for U.S. dollars). Banknotes come in denominations of NT$100, NT$200, NT$500, NT$1,000 and NT$2,000, while coins come in denominations of NT$½, NT$1, NT$5, NT$10, NT$20 and NT$50. The NT$½ coin is rarely seen or accepted because of its low value, and the price of raw materials used to make the coin is more than the face value of the coin. The NT$20 coin, the NT$200 banknote, and the NT$2,000 banknote are not as common as others. The 20, 200, and 2000 are legal currencies that should be accepted, but stores that are unfamiliar with them sometimes do not accept them. Taiwanese currency is fully convertible. However, [https://web.customs.gov.tw/en/singlehtml/3307?cntId=f9825ec78d5344c2aecede04cc02d569 to prevent money laundering], you can only take cash under $100,000 NTD, $20,000 RMB, ''and'' (currencies calculated independently) $10,000 USD into or out of the island. Currency exchange is possible internationally, although you will get a much better rate if you wait until you arrive at the airport to exchange currency at the 24-hour window. Most banks in Taipei and Kaohsiung will exchange money or offer cash advances on credit or debit cards. Should you bring American currency, bring newer bills as the banks and exchange centers (such as in department stores) will only accept the newer notes (notes from 1996 and 2003 are not accepted at most places, due to a high proportion of forgeries bearing these years). Notes which are torn or damaged will probably not be changed, and old-style small-bust notes are not accepted, including the US$2 bill no matter when it was printed. Taiwan National Bank will take older bank notes and bank notes that are wrinkled or torn for exchange. Department stores will not exchange notes older than 1997. Don't forget to show your passport! ====ATMs==== Taiwan has abundant ATMs to withdraw cash from using the Plus or Cirrus systems. Certain banks' ATMs will even tell you your available balance in your own currency or in NT$. There is a per transaction limit of NT$20,000 for ATM cash withdrawals (HSBC Global Access customers may withdraw NT$30,000 from HSBC ATMs). Post office ATMs will ''not'' accept cards without an EMV chip. Banks that don’t charge an ATM fee (as of Oct 2023): Cathay United, Changhwa, Far Eastern, Huan Nan, Mega, and Union. Banks that charge an ATM fee: China Trust, Taishin. However, sometimes ATMs may be out of cash, especially in remote (mountain) regions. So, make sure you stock up on cash early enough. 7-Eleven ATMs charge NT$100 per transaction, whilst those in Family Marts do not charge a fee. ====Credit/debit cards==== Most hotels and department stores accept credit and debit cards, generally Visa, MasterCard, and JCB. Diners Club and Discover cards are usually not accepted. American Express and UnionPay are between Visa and Diners Club, but they are close to the Diners Club situation. Some stores, particularly convenience stores, only accept certain credit cards (such as those from ''certain'' Taiwanese banks) even if Visa, MasterCard, or JCB issue the cards. These stores sometimes do not accept credit cards issued outside Taiwan. Many restaurants and most small stores do not accept cards, and cash is the main form of payment. Because street crime is rare, it is common for people in Taiwan to carry large amounts of cash with them. ===== Mobile wallets ===== Unlike mainland China, QR code based mobile wallet payments are not quite ubiquitous or essential to the point that a visitor would have a hard time without one. In addition, Taiwan's mobile wallet apps generally require foreigners to register with an ARC, limiting the ability of visitors to use it. However, LINE Pay, one of the most popular, is cross-compatible with its counterparts in Thailand, Japan, and South Korea, meaning that if you already have a LINE Pay account from one of those countries, it can be used with any linked credit or debit card to make payments at stores in Taiwan that take LINE Pay. Your card will be directly charged NT$; LINE Pay does not automatically convert to your account currency. This can reduce the amount of cash you need to carry around as some shops that otherwise do not take card payments will take LINE Pay and other mobile wallets. ====Banks==== If you are planning on staying in Taiwan for a longer time, you should consider opening a Taiwanese bank account. While many of the large foreign banks such as Citibank and HSBC have branches in Taiwan, they often require huge deposits in order for you to open an account, so you might wish to consider one of the major local banks such as the Bank of Taiwan instead. You will need to bring your passport and UI number in order to open an account. The UI number is the number on the Alien Residence Card for those on long-term visas. Short-term tourists can obtain a "UI No. Basic Information Form" for free from the local Immigration Agency office, but it is not accepted by all banks. The larger banks will often have English-speaking staff available to assist foreigners. However, unlike other companies in the private sector, which are dynamic, Taiwan's banking system is still very much rooted in the days of martial law and is extremely conservative and to complete the simplest task requires copious amounts of patience and reams of documents to be signed and countersigned. In fact, most large businesses prefer to do their banking outside of Taiwan due to the restrictive nature of the system on the island. === Costs === Costs in Taiwan are generally lower than in Japan, South Korea and Hong Kong, but higher than in Southeast Asia and mainland China. For a budget traveler on a bare-bones budget, NT$2,000 will get you by for a day (as of 2026), but you'll probably want to double that for comfort. A meal at a street stall may cost NT$50-75, a meal at a Western fast food restaurant will run you NT$150-250 and at the fanciest restaurants, you can expect a bill in excess of NT$1,000. On the high end of the spectrum, hotel rooms at a swanky hotel might cost NT$5,000 or more. Costs diminish significantly the further you go out of the big cities. Taxis are quite reasonable and are metered starting at about NT$100 at flag fall. To some destinations there may be a set costs so ask and haggle if possible. === Tipping === Tipping is generally '''not''' practiced in Taiwan. Bellhops in high end hotels and porters at airports are an exception and should be given NT$50 per bag. Also, tipping to show appreciation for exceptional service is not uncommon. Tipping is also not expected in taxis and drivers would usually return your change to the last dollar. In place of tips is a 10% service charge when dining at most full-service restaurants which is automatically added to the bill. ===Shopping=== [[File:Linjiang Street Night Market 20040610.jpg|thumb|A typical night market in Taiwan may sell anything from food to clothing to fortune telling services]] As in many Asian countries, [[night markets]] are a staple of Taiwanese entertainment, shopping and eating. Usually, they are open-aired on a street or alleyway, with vendors selling all sorts of wares on every side. In larger cities, you will have a night market every night and in the same place. In smaller cities, they are only open certain nights of the week and may move to different streets depending on the day of the week. Every city has at least one night market; larger cities like [[Taipei]] may have a dozen or more. They are crowded, so remember to watch out for your wallet! Shops selling the same items tend to congregate in the same part of the city. If you want to buy something, ask someone to take you to one shop and there will probably be shops selling similar things nearby. There are many shopping centers in Taipei where prices are usually fixed and goods are genuine. Otherwise, shopping streets in larger cities like [[Kaohsiung]] and [[Taichung]] can also easily get you what you want. And of course, there is the trendy Ximending ({{lang|zh-TW|西門町}}) in Taipei, where you can find pretty much anything associated with the youth at fixed prices. Computer chain shops and department stores normally have fixed prices, but at least in department stores, you may get a "registered member discount" if you're shopping a lot. Prices at smaller stores and even some hostels are normally cash prices. If you like to use a credit card, the seller normally wants to add anything up to 8% to the price as a "card fee" etc. The fee consists actually of the credit company's commission and also the local sales tax/VAT. If you pay cash, you might not get an official receipt, as then the seller would have to report and pay their taxes in full. If you ask for a Unified Invoice ({{lang|zh-TW|統一發票}}, ''tongyi fa piao''), you will get it but you may need to pay 3-5% more. Larger stores (and, in fact, some very profitable small shops) usually provide a Unified Invoice with a big, unique number on it. The numbers can be used for the Uniform Invoice lottery, an award encouraging people to ask for the invoices so the government can collect taxes. The drawing has been held on the 25th of every odd-numbered month for the past two months (for example, March 25th for invoices provided in January and February). Donating to local charities is fine if you don't need them, but if some strangers ask for them, treat it as [[begging]]. In addition, people can apply for an [https://www.einvoice.nat.gov.tw E-Invoice] ({{lang|zh-TW|電子發票}}, ''dianzi fa piao'') on a carrier ({{lang|zh-TW|載具}}, ''zai ju''). Stores offer Unified Invoices, therefore, will ask if you have a carrier on E-Invoice by saying "{{lang|zh-TW|發票要存載具嗎？}}" (''fa piao yao cun zai ju ma?''). If you don't have one, say no and take a paper invoice. Many stores also ask customers for a GUI number ({{lang|zh-TW|統一編號}}, ''tongyi bianhao'', or {{lang|zh-TW|統編}}, ''tongbian''), a unique number for companies in Taiwan so employees can declare expenses to their companies. If local companies pay your fee and they need a Uniform Invoice with a GUI number, give the GUI number to the store. Foreign visitors may claim a [https://www.taxrefund.net.tw/ttr/ VAT refund] if they spend a minimum of NT$2,000 per day per participating store. To do this, you will need to show your passport and obtain a tax refund application form from the store. When departing Taiwan, bring the form to the tax refund counter or automated kiosk and follow the relevant instructions. You can either get your refund in cash, or to your credit card. If choosing to get your refund in cash, you will be issued a receipt that you will need to bring to the bank counter after your have cleared departure immigration to receive your refund. Keep your receipts! Every receipt is a lottery ticket with a chance to win cash prizes drawn every two months ===Bargaining=== Whilst [[bargaining]] was OK in the past and expected in night markets as well as smaller stores, nowadays most prices are fixed. Taiwan has become a sophisticated and wealthy country where most Taiwanese, especially from the cities, generally do not request discounts and any such are likely to receive a friendly ''No''. Nevertheless, you will encounter different prices, e.g. cut fruits will cost NT$30 at the Night Market, but NT$80 in tourist areas. However, it is possible to get a discount of NT$20-100 when renting a motorbike/bicycle, searching for accommodation or such, depending on the circumstances and time of day. While you might miss a general bargaining culture and be bewildered by the general bargain inflexibility of Taiwanese, it can on the other hand be calming to know that no one will try to rip you off as it is common in other less-developed Asian countries. === What to buy === Popular things to buy include: * '''Jade'''. Although it can be hard to know for sure if the item you're buying is real jade or not, some beautiful objects are sold. Most cities have a specific jade market dealing in jade and other precious stones. Taiwan produces some jade domestically, especially in the area around [[Hualien]], but the most prized jades are imported from [[Myanmar]] * '''Computers'''. Taiwan designs and produces a lot of desktops, laptops, and PC peripherals. Travelers might be interested in visiting the large Information Technology Market at Taiwan for the best prices. Desktop computers and components tend to be the same price in Taiwan as in other areas of the world, though peripherals such as cables and adapters tend to be noticeably cheaper. If you're buying domestic, it's best to go to tourist hangouts to buy your stuff as you might be saddled with Chinese documentation otherwise. Also, laptops are typically only available with a Chinese Bopomofo and English keyboard. * '''Lingzhi''' ({{lang|zh-TW|靈芝}}). A type of bracket fungus that is often used as a Chinese herb. It supposedly has many health benefits with an apparent absence of side effects, earning it a high reputation in East Asian countries and making it rather expensive. Taiwanese lingzhi is particularly famous for being of the highest quality. * '''[[Tea]]'''. Taiwan is particularly famous for its oolong tea ({{lang|zh-TW|烏龍茶}}) due to the island's predominant Fujianese culture; it is available at many tea shops. Tea tasting in Chinese culture is akin to wine tasting in Western culture and you will find many grades of this same type of tea, with different methods of treating the tea leaves. * '''[[w:Iron egg|Iron eggs]]''' ({{lang|zh-TW|鐵蛋}}) irresistible delicacy In order to protect the environment, a government policy rules that plastic bags cannot be given freely at stores in Taiwan, but have to be bought (at a flat rate of NT$1)—bakeries being an exception as the items need to be hygienically wrapped. Re-usable canvas and nylon bags are sold at most supermarkets. == Eat == {{seealso|Chinese cuisine}} {{infobox|Stinky tofu|Undoubtedly the most infamous Taiwanese delicacy, stinky tofu ({{lang|zh-TW|臭豆腐}} ''chòudòufu'') is fermented tofu with a strong odor often likened to rotting garbage. It's usually sold only by outdoor stalls, as the smell would overwhelm most restaurants, but if you can hold your nose long enough to eat it, the taste is quite mild &mdash; but with distinct earthy overtones that many visitors find off-putting. It's most commonly eaten fried, but for extra Fear Factor points, find some ''mala'' hotpot ({{lang|zh-TW|麻辣鍋}}) with stinky tofu and gelatinized duck blood.}} [[File:Food_BeefNoodleSoup.JPG|thumb|Taiwanese beef noodle soup]] [[File:Food_AiyuLemonJelly.JPG|thumb|Lemon ''aiyu'' jelly]] Taiwan is a food lover's paradise, and a popular culinary tourism destination for East and Southeast Asian tourists. While not as highly regarded as the food from Hong Kong due to the traditionally high status Cantonese cuisine holds in Chinese culture, Taiwanese food has become more respected. Generally speaking, the foods of Taiwan are derived from '''mainland Chinese cuisines'''. Because most Taiwanese trace their ancestry to [[Fujian]], it comes as no surprise that much of Taiwanese cuisine was derived from the cuisine of Fujian. It is also possible to find [[Sichuan]] ({{lang|zh-TW|四川}}) food, [[Hunan]] ({{lang|zh-TW|湖南}}) food, [[Dongbei]] ({{lang|zh-TW|東北}}) food, [[Guangdong]] ({{lang|zh-TW|廣東}}) food and almost every other Chinese cuisine on the island, because many famous chefs from the mainland fled to Taiwan after the communist victory in 1949, and many of the Nationalists brought their family recipes with them when retreating from the mainland. That being said, the mainland Chinese cuisines found on Taiwan are not necessarily "authentic" as Taiwanese cuisine has absorbed substantial local influences, and significant Japanese influences because of 50 years of Japanese colonial rule, giving it a unique character that distinguishes it from its mainland Chinese counterparts. The Taiwanese are also passionately in love with eggs and seafood. Fruits are another famous part of Taiwanese food. A wide range of fruits can be found at local fruit shops and stations. The subtropical climate allows different fruits to grow nicely. Taiwan also has many of its own '''local specialties'''. A few found island wide include: * '''Beef Noodles''' ({{lang|zh-TW|牛肉麵}} ''niúròu miàn'') – Noodle soup with chunks of meltingly soft stewed beef and a dash of pickles, which traces its origins to the Kuomintang refugees from mainland China who retreated to Taiwan, and comes primarily in two distinct styles; '''Red-Braised Beef Noodle Soup''' ({{lang|zh-TW|紅燒牛肉麵}}) comes in a dark brown and slightly spicy broth and traces its origins to the refugees from [[Sichuan]], while '''Clear Broth Beef Noodle Soup''' ({{lang|zh-TW|清燉牛肉麵}}), as the name suggests, comes in a lightly-coloured but flavorful broth, and traces its origin to the refugees from [[Shandong]]. * '''Oyster omelette''' ({{lang|zh-TW|蚵仔煎}} ''ó āh jiān'' – This is the Taiwanese name, as its Chinese name only exists in characters, but not in oral Mandarin), a dish made from eggs, oysters, sweet potato flour and the leaves of a local chrysanthemum, topped with sweet red sauce. The local version in [[Kinmen]] differs quite considerably from the version on the main island, and is closer to the versions served in mainland China's Fujian province. * '''[[w:Aiyu jelly|Aiyu jelly]]''' ({{lang|zh-TW|愛玉}} ''àiyù'') – Made from the seeds of a local fig and usually served on ice &mdash; sweet, cool and refreshing on a hot day * '''Taiwan Sausage''' ({{lang|zh-TW|香腸}} ''xiāngcháng'') – Usually made from pork, it is a modified version of the Cantonese ''laap cheong'' ({{lang|zh-TW|臘腸}}) which has been emulsified and is much sweeter in taste. Unlike ''laap cheong'', which is almost always eaten with rice, Taiwanese ''xiangchang'' is usually eaten on its own with some garlic. * '''Taiwanese Orange''' ({{lang|zh-TW|柳丁}} ''liŭdīng'') – A type of citrus fruit which is similar to usual oranges, except that the skin and flesh tend to look more yellowish like lemon. Unlike lemon, it is usually quite sweet. * '''Taiwanese Porridge''' ({{lang|zh-TW|粥}} ''zhōu'' in Mandarin, {{lang|zh-TW|糜}} ''beh'' in Taiwanese) — Rice porridge, sometimes cooked with sweet potato. Eaten all across China, but most commonly in Fujian. It is usually eaten with several different dishes as a starch base, often for breakfast. * '''Braised pork rice''' ({{lang|zh-TW|滷肉飯}} ''lǔ ròu fàn'') – Rice topped with pork belly that has been stewed in dark soy sauce and other spices and chopped into tiny pieces. A classic Taiwanese comfort dish. For a less fatty version, ask for {{lang|zh-TW|肉燥飯}} (''ròu zào fàn''), which uses minced pork instead. * '''Three-cup chicken''' ({{lang|zh-TW|三杯雞}} ''sān bēi jī'') – A succulent and savory chicken dish with three sauces: soy sauce, rice wine and sesame oil. Served with rice. * '''Muah chee''' ({{lang|zh-TW|麻糬}} or {{lang|zh-TW|麻糍}}), often called '''mochi''' in English — Refers to both the traditional [[South Fujian]] dessert made of glutinous rice flour and flavored with sesame and/or peanuts, and [[Japan|Japanese]]-style mochi. Both are considered variants of the same dish in Taiwan, with the former being regarded as more traditional, and the latter being regarded as more modern. There is also a variant that mixes in ground foxtail millet with the glutinous rice flour as well, and is a specialty of the indigenous people in southern Taiwan. * '''Railway Bento''' ({{lang|zh-TW|臺鐵便當}} ''Tái tiě biàndang'') — A national culinary icon and Taiwanese train tradition, this takeaway dish, based on the Japanese ''ekiben'', is a holdover of the Japanese colonial era, and celebrated in Taiwan. The most popular bento is the braised pork cutlet bento. You can find this dish at major TRA train stations throughout Taiwan (though locals compare the quality of railway bento on a station-by-station basis), and adaptations are sold by various restaurants across Taiwan. Towns famous for their local versions of railway bentos include [[Fulong]], [[Chishang]] and [[Alishan|Fenchihu]]. * '''Pineapple cake'''({{lang|zh-TW|鳳梨酥}} ''fènglísū) —'' A sweet traditional Taiwanese pastry, featuring a buttery crust filled with pineapple paste and winter melon paste. Most cities and towns in Taiwan are famous for special foods because of the Taiwanese passion for food and influences from many different countries. [[Yungho|Yonghe]] ({{lang|zh-TW|永和}}), a suburb of Taipei, is famous for its freshly made soy milk ({{lang|zh-TW|豆漿}}) and breakfast foods. [[Taichung]] is famous for its sun cakes ({{lang|zh-TW|太陽餅}} ''tàiyáng bǐng''), a kind of sweet stuffed pastry. In [[Chiayi]], it's square cookies, also called cubic pastry ({{lang|zh-TW|方塊酥}}), crispy layered cookies cut into squares and sprinkled liberally with sesame seeds. [[Tainan]] is particularly famous among the Taiwanese for its abundance of good food and should be a stop for all gourmands. The most famous dish is arguably the ''coffin bread'' ({{lang|zh-TW|棺材板}}). Virtually every city has its own famous specialities; many Taiwanese tourists will visit other cities on the island simply to try the local foods and then return home. Taiwan also has remarkably good '''bakery items'''. Most specialize in sweet Chinese pastries or Western pastries adjusted to local tastes, but look out for ''We Care'' bakeries which also offer Western options such as whole wheat loaves, sour breads and ciabatta. Vegetarians are better catered for in restaurants and variety than in most other countries. Michelin publishes a [https://guide.michelin.com/tw/en guide] to restaurants and covers major cities in Taiwan. That said, many locals take the Michelin guide with a pinch of salt because of a gap between the guide and the locals. For example, Tainan, ''the'' city known for delicious foods, has no Michelin star restaurants there yet. As of January 2025, there are 3 three-starred Michelin star restaurants in Taiwan. === Places to eat === If you're on a budget, the cheapest food can be found in back-alley noodle shops and night market stalls, where you can get a filling bowl of noodles for around NT$35-70. Most Taiwanese people enjoy their breakfast in '''breakfast bars''' ({{lang|zh-TW|早餐店}}), which are almost everywhere. They can provide various foods for an enjoyable breakfast - from traditional ''shaobing youtiao'' with soy milk to American hamburgers with cola. '''Soy milk restaurants''' ({{lang|zh-TW|豆漿店}}), which sell soy milk and foods that can match soy milk, are a popular variant of breakfast bars, but they usually open from night to morning. While prices may vary depending on the region or type of food, NT$100 can generally buy a meal in breakfast bars. The Taiwanese love to snack and even many restaurants advertise ''xiaochi'' ({{lang|zh-TW|小吃}}), literally "small eats", the Taiwanese equivalent of Cantonese ''dim sum''. There are also the standard '''fast food''' places such as McDonalds (a standard Big Mac Meal costs NT$140), KFC and MOS Burger. In addition, there are large numbers of convenience stores (such as 7-Eleven and Family Mart) that sell things like tea eggs, sandwiches, bento boxes ({{lang|zh-TW|便當}}) and drinks. Night markets are also a good place to try some delicious local Taiwanese fare at attractive prices. Examples would be the Shilin Night Market ({{lang|zh-TW|士林夜市}}) in [[Taipei]] and the Ruifeng Night Market ({{lang|zh-TW|瑞豐夜市}}) in [[Kaohsiung]], each of which has its own special dishes not to be missed. Also consider '''buffet''' ({{lang|zh-TW|自助餐}}) restaurants, which, unlike in the West, are ''not'' fixed-price all-you-can-eat restaurants (which are called "{{lang|zh-TW|吃到飽}}", meaning "eat until you are full", in Taiwan). Such restaurants are self-service, with the dishes laid out in a common area, and customers are given a pair of tongs to pick dishes from the spread to accompany some rice. Prices are usually not displayed; after you have finished picking your dishes, you go to the cashier, and the boss will estimate by eye and charge you based on the quantity of each dish that you pick. These are popular with working-class Taiwanese, and typical prices for a meal should fall between NT$100-150; you can save some money by picking only vegetables, while picking fish/meat will drive the price up. Prices also tend to increase during and just after a typhoon due to the increased cost of ingredients. === Etiquette === As with Chinese cuisine elsewhere, food in Taiwan is generally eaten with chopsticks and served on large plates placed at the center of the table and shared among multiple people. Oftentimes, a serving spoon or pair of communal chopsticks ({{lang|zh-TW|公筷}} ''gōngkuài'') accompanies the dishes and guests do not use their own chopsticks to transfer food to their plates. The usual traditional Chinese taboos when eating with chopsticks apply in Taiwan as well. For instance, do not stick your chopsticks straight up or into your bowl of rice. This is reminiscent of incense sticks at a temple, and has connotations of wishing death upon those around you. When putting down chopsticks, either place them on the provided porcelain chopstick rest (at fancier restaurants) or rest the chopsticks across the top of your bowl. Also, do not use your chopsticks to spear your food or move bowls and plates. See [[Chinese cuisine#Etiquette|Chinese table etiquette]] for more details. Although there are minor differences between Taiwanese and mainland Chinese etiquette, much of traditional Chinese table manners apply to Taiwan too. === Dietary restrictions === ====Vegetarians==== [[File:Sush Manji.JPG|thumb|The characters {{lang|zh-TW|素食}} signal the availability of vegetarian food]] All Mahayana Buddhists, which account for the majority of adherents in Taiwan, aspire to be pure '''vegetarian''' in deference to the Buddha's teaching of non-violence and compassion. So, vegetarian restaurants (called ''su-shi'' {{lang|zh-TW|素食}} ''tsan-ting'' {{lang|zh-TW|餐廳}} in Mandarin, and often identified with the {{lang|zh-TW|卍}} symbol, in this context a Buddhist symbol) can be found in abundance all over the island, and they run from cheap buffet style to gourmet and organic. Vegetarian buffet restaurants ({{lang|zh-TW|素食自助餐}}) will typically cost you NT$90-120 for a good sized, nutritious meal. However, if you cannot find a veggie restaurant, don't fret. Taiwanese people are very flexible and most restaurants will be happy to cook you up something to suit your requirements. The following sentences in Mandarin might be helpful: {{lang|zh-TW|我吃素}} (''Wǒ chī sù'') - I'm vegetarian, {{lang|zh-TW|我不吃肉}} (''Wǒ bù chī ròu'') - I don't eat meat. However, as Mandarin is a tonal language, you might need to say both, plus practice your acting skills to get yourself understood. Good luck! NB: If a restaurant refuses your order, don't push the issue. The reason will not be an unwillingness to accommodate your request, but because the basic ingredients of their dishes may include chicken broth or pork fat. Taiwanese vegetarianism isn't simply vegetarianism, for there is a notion of "plainness" to it. In most cases, it excludes the "five pungent vegetables", namely onion, garlic, chives, leeks and spring onion. Mahayana Buddhists consider these items "un-plain" because they potentially cause physical excitement, which could hinder the meditative process. Thus, when offering food to a strict vegetarian, be aware that they may not eat food containing these. Although vegetarian restaurants in Taiwan do not aspire to '''vegan''' principles, almost all non-dessert dishes at Chinese-style veggie restaurants will actually be vegan because the Taiwanese do not have a tradition of eating dairy products. Ensure that your dish does not contain eggs, however. ====Allergies==== Awareness of '''food allergies''' ({{lang|zh-TW|過敏}}) is limited in Taiwan. If you can speak Chinese, you can ask restaurant staff whether the food contains common allergens like peanuts or shellfish, and depending on the chef, they may be able to make some adjustments to accommodate you. Don't expect that level of accommodation from night market stalls though. A serious '''soy''' allergy is basically incompatible with Taiwanese cuisine due to the prevalence of soy sauce as an ingredient, and '''gluten-free''' diets are very difficult to come by due to the very low incidence of celiac disease in Taiwan. '''Dairy''' is not commonly used in traditional Taiwanese cuisine, so avoiding it should be straightforward for lactose-intolerant people. ====Religious diets==== [[File:Halal Chinese Beef Noodles.jpg|thumb|alt={{lang|zh-TW|清真中國牛肉麵}}|A ''halal'' beef noodle restaurant in Taipei. Note the Arabic script on the cow logo]] For Buddhists, see the [[#Vegetarians|vegetarians]] section above. In short, Buddhist diets are readily available. Due to the increase in Southeast Asian visitors or workers in Taiwan, many of them [[Islam|Muslims]], you can find ''halal'' ({{lang|zh-TW|清真}}, ''qīngzhēn'') food with some patience, despite pork being a main part of [[Chinese cuisine]]. In fact, some convenience stores have created ''halal'' food corners for Muslims. Your best bet for ''halal'' food is restaurants or stores serving the Southeast Asian community. There are many ''halal'' certification bodies in Taiwan, but the [http://www.cmainroc.org.tw Chinese Muslim Association] certifies most ''halal'' stores; Muslim visitors can contact them for more information. In addition, the Taiwanese government provides a [https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/m1.aspx?sNo=0020323 detailed list] where one can find ''halal'' food and accommodations. ''[[kashrut|Kosher]]'' food for [[Judaism|Jews]] is rare, so contact the [http://jtca.org.tw/ Jewish Taiwan Cultural Association] for information. == Drink == [[File:HeySong beverage vending machine 20120917.jpg|thumb|Drinks vending machine in Taiwan]] As Taiwan is a subtropical island with the southern part in the tropics, it cannot hurt to drink a lot, especially during the summertime. Drink vending machines can be found virtually everywhere and are filled with all kinds of juices, tea and coffee drinks, soy milk and mineral water. Bringing a '''water bottle''' is helpful in Taiwan for drinking. Water dispensers/fountains are ubiquitous in Taiwan, allowing you to refill your water bottles. Many drinking shops also provide at least NT$5 off for filling their drink with your water bottles to encourage people to [[Sustainable travel#Drink|use fewer disposable drink bottles]]. === Alcohol === Taiwan's legal age to consume alcohol is 18 years of age. Minors caught drinking can face fines ranging from NT$10,000-50,000. Traditional alcoholic drinks in Taiwan are very strong, although the Taiwanese themselves are fairly light drinkers compared to the rest of East Asia. '''Kaoliang''' ({{lang|zh-TW|高粱酒}}) from [[Kinmen]], a type of Chinese baijiu, is Taiwan's national liquor. A distilled grain liquor, it is extremely strong, usually 140 proof or more, and often drunk straight. Taiwan also produces many types of '''Shaoxing''' ({{lang|zh-TW|紹興酒}}), rice wine, which are considered by many as being some of the best in the world. While a relatively newcomer to the scene, Taiwanese '''[[whisky]]''' ({{lang|zh-TW|威士忌}}) has been making waves in the 21st century, with local whiskey brand [https://www.kavalanwhisky.com/ Kavalan] having emerged from obscurity to win numerous prestigious international awards. Taiwanese people enjoy beer on ice. A wide variety of imported beers are available, but the standard is '''Taiwan Beer''' ({{lang|zh-TW|台灣啤酒}}), produced by a former government monopoly. It is brewed with fragrant penglai rice in addition to barley giving it a distinctive flavor. The beer is served cold and recognized as an especially suitable complement to Taiwanese and Japanese cuisine, especially seafood dishes such as sushi and sashimi. Taiwan Beer has won international awards, including the International Monde Selection in 1977 and the Brewing Industry International Awards in 2002. Beer on tap is uncommon in Taiwan, and most places serve beer in bottles. For a special and rare treat, ask for the Taiwan Draft Beer ({{lang|zh-TW|台灣生啤酒}}), which comes in a plain green bottle. This has a 2-week expiration, so it can only be found at the breweries (there are a few scattered around Taiwan) or at select stores and restaurants in the vicinity. A typical place for Taiwanese people to have drinks with friends is known as '''''rè chǎo''''' ({{lang|zh-TW|熱炒}}), literally "hot stir fry", an informal restaurant serving mostly wok-fried Taiwanese dishes along with beer to go with the dishes. === Tea and coffee === [[File:TimeForTea BubbleTea.JPG|thumb|Pearl milk tea and pudding milk tea, [[Chiayi]]]] Taiwan's specialty teas are '''High Mountain Oolong''' ({{lang|zh-TW|高山烏龍}}, ''Gao-shan wulong''), a fragrant light tea, and '''Tie Guan-yin''' ({{lang|zh-TW|鐵觀音}}), a dark, rich brew. Enjoying this tea, served in the traditional way using a very small teapot and tiny cups, is an experience you should not miss. This way of taking tea is called ''lao ren cha'' ({{lang|zh-TW|老人茶}}), 'old people's tea', and the name is derived from the fact that only the elderly traditionally had the luxury of time to relax and enjoy tea in this way. Check the small print when visiting a traditional tea house though: in addition to the tea itself, you may be charged a cover ({{lang|zh-TW|茶水費}}, literally "tea-water fee") for the elaborate process of preparing it and for any nibbles served on the side. Taiwan is an excellent place to experience the elaborate '''Gongfu tea ceremony''' ({{lang|zh-TW|工夫茶}}), a tradition it shares with the [[South Fujian]] and [[Chaoshan]] regions across the strait in mainland China. One should also try '''Lei cha''' ({{lang|zh-TW|擂茶}}; léi chá) a tasty and nourishing Hakka Chinese tea-based dish consisting of a mix ground tea leaves and rice. Some stores specialize in this product and allows one to grind their own lei cha. As is true elsewhere, Chinese teas in Taiwan are always drunk neat, without the use of milk or sugar. However, Taiwan is also the birthplace of pearl milk tea, which uses sugar and milk. '''Pearl milk tea''' ({{lang|zh-TW|珍珠奶茶}} ''zhēnzhū nǎichá''), aka "bubble tea" or "boba tea", is milky tea with chewy balls of tapioca added, drunk through an over-sized straw. Invented in Taiwan in the early 1980s and a huge Asia-wide craze in the 1990s, it's not quite as popular as it once was but can still be found at nearly every coffee or tea shop. Look for a shop where it is freshly made. There are two cafes that maintain rival claims to having invented the drink: '''[https://chunshuitang.com.tw/ Chun Shui Tang]''' ({{lang|zh-TW|春水堂}}) in [[Taichung]] and '''[http://www.hanlin-tea.com.tw/ Hanlin Tea Room]''' ({{lang|zh-TW|翰林茶館}}) in [[Tainan]]. The '''cafe culture''' has hit Taiwan in a big way, and in addition to an abundance of privately owned cafes, all the major chains, such as Starbucks, have a multitude of branches throughout major towns and cities. === Soft drinks === Taiwan is a great place for fruit drinks. Small fruit-juice bars make them fresh on the spot and are experts at creating fruit-juice cocktails (non-alcoholic, of course). ''zong-he'' (mixed) is usually a sweet and sour combination and ''mu-gwa niou-nai'' ({{lang|zh-TW|木瓜牛奶}}) is iced papaya milk. If you don't want ice (though it is safe in Taiwan, even at road side vendors) say, ''chu bing'' ({{lang|zh-TW|去冰}}) and no sugar (''wu tang'' ({{lang|zh-TW|無糖}})). Winter melon punch ({{lang|zh-TW|冬瓜茶}}) is a popular unique local drink in Taiwan. '''Soy milk''', or ''doujiang'' ({{lang|zh-TW|豆漿}}), is a great treat. Try it hot or cold. Savory soy milk is a traditional Taiwanese breakfast dish. It is somewhat of an acquired taste as vinegar is added to curdle the milk. Both sweet and savory soy milk are often ordered with you-tiao ({{lang|zh-TW|油條}}), or deep fried dough crullers. There are a lot of pseudo health drinks in Taiwanese supermarkets and convenience stores. Look out for asparagus juice and lavender milk tea for example. == Sleep == [[File:GrandHotel Fountain.JPG|thumb|250px|The Grand Hotel, Taipei]] ===Types=== * For the budget-minded, there are '''hostels''' in Taipei and most other sizable cities. Some hostels are under table which mean they don't have valid license. * '''Motels''' ({{lang|zh-TW|汽車旅館}}) can be easily found in suburbs of major cities. Despite the name, these have little if anything to do with the cheap functional hotels that use the name elsewhere; in Taiwan, motels are intended for '''romantic trysts''' and can be quite extravagant in decor and facilities. Many feature enormous baths with massage jets, separate massage showers, marble tiles, and so forth. Suites come with flat screen TVs and centrally controlled sound systems. During the daytime, most offer "rests" ({{lang|zh-TW|休息}}) of a few hours, and indeed check-in times for overnight stays ({{lang|zh-TW|住宿}}) can be as late at 22:00. [[Taichung]] is considered the motel-capital of Taiwan. * Taiwanese '''hotels''' range in quality from seedy to very luxurious. Most Western hotel chains, such as Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt, operate in Taiwan, as do Asian chains Mandarin Oriental, Okura Hotels and Shangri-La, and local Taiwanese chain '''[https://www.evergreen-hotels.com/chain2/index.jsp?lang=en Evergreen Hotels]'''. Independent hotels not part of any chain can often provide better rates, but their quality varies widely; do some research before you book. * A uniquely Taiwanese form of accommodation is known as the '''minsu''' ({{lang|zh-TW|民宿}} ''mínsù''), small family-run operations where guests are personally served by the owners, similar to Bed and Breakfast in the UK. Many are designed around a specific theme (like fairy tale castle, nature lodge). Accommodation at a minsu typically includes breakfast the next morning, and some may also include dinner, often featuring local specialities. The downside is that most minsu are either in the suburbs, smaller towns or the countryside, meaning that transportation is typically less convenient than at more centrally-located hotels, and the availability of wi-fi can be hit-or-miss. In addition, most minsu advertise in Chinese only, and the hosts may not be proficient in English. However, as the hosts are usually locals from the area, if you can get past the language barrier, they are usually an excellent resource to learn more about the local culture and lifestyle. Typically, you and your party will get your own bedroom, but other facilities like the living room and dining room will be shared with other guests. If you want the entire house/unit to yourself, look for minsu that advertise {{lang|zh-TW|包棟}} (''bāodòng''). * '''Camping''' does not seem to be an issue in Taiwan and is available in many areas, even in national parks like [[Kenting National Park]]. Although, in [[Taroko Gorge|Taroko Gorge (National Park)]] you will have to pay for the camp ground. In general, a small fee may apply at official camp grounds. Inquire with the local tourist information center where it is possible to camp and where not. Also, be aware there are "poisonous snakes and wasps" signs all over the country. So, make sure you know where you are camping, and how to keep out "unwanted guests". Consult a map like [http://openpoimap.org/?map=hotels&zoom=14&lat=21.93964&lon=120.72386&layers=B00FFTFFFFFFFF OpenStreetMap], which many mobile Apps like OsmAnd or Mapy.cz, use, to find existing camp grounds or good locations. * Some '''Buddhist temples''' provide accommodation to pilgrims, but you will be expected to follow a strict schedule and participate in the temple activities while you are there. Chinese language ability is usually required, as most monks and nuns are unable to speak English, but one place that is set up to accommodate foreign pilgrims with English-speaking monks and nuns is the '''[https://www.fgs.org.tw/en/ Fo Guang Shan Monastery]''' near [[Kaohsiung]]. ===Remarks=== Nowadays, '''walk-ins''' are often more expensive than online bookings, especially with bigger hotels. It often seems, they cannot even beat their own online prices and you might need to book online instead of paying in cash on-sight&mdash;they will even courteously offer their WiFi for you to do that. Either way, it is advisable that you know what is the actual price online, which gives you a good bargaining ground. Sometimes they will quote a higher price, sometimes they will give you NT$50 less, but often it is just the online price. If you are still in need of a discount, send the ho(s)tel an email or WeChat/Line message quoting the online price. Some will give you 10 % discount on the online price this way, especially for same day short notice bookings. Generally, short notice bookings will give you a better price, since hotels are trying to sell their stock at a bargain price last-minute. However, do not try this for Saturday/Sunday or Holiday/Holiday bookings, this will leave you with bad or no options. Many hotels in Taiwan have both Chinese and Western names, which can differ radically. Find out and bring along the Chinese name (in Chinese characters), as locals will usually not be able to identify the English ones. Hotel beds in Taiwan are generally much harder than in the West because of the old Asian tradition to sleep on a wood board. Modern mattresses can be found in most hotels, but only in the most upscale Western style hotels will you find beds in a real western style. Many accommodations are not staffed 24/7, but they will leave a contact at their door. Often this will be a '''LINE''' (a Japanese messaging app similar to Whatapp) contact. You should download and set up an account on LINE before traveling to Taiwan. Agoda seems to list more accommodation options than Booking for Taiwan. However, Agoda's way of claiming additional fees and stating dorm bed availability is a little dodgy. It often says "1 person in a dorm" but then "Occupancy: 2 adults". So, better to book each person separately just in case. Also, never choose the option to get charged in you credit card's home currency (€, US$, or so). This will give you a very bad exchange rate. Always select "TWD" as charged currency&mdash;in this case your home bank is indeed your friend. '''Or''' just get the displayed address/GPS, which is always fully displayed, and walk into the hotel. m²Starting 2025, hotels are legally banned from providing single-use amenities (toothbrushes, razors) in rooms. Bring your own toiletries or purchase them at the front desk. == Learn == Taiwan is home to several good universities, many of which have exchange agreements with various foreign universities, and these are a good way to experience life in Taiwan. The most prestigious university in Taiwan is the '''[https://www.ntu.edu.tw/english/ National Taiwan University]''' ({{lang|zh-TW|國立臺灣大學}}), and admission to it is fiendishly competitive for local students, but considerably easier for foreigners if your Mandarin is up to scratch. === Mandarin Chinese === Some universities in Taiwan have Chinese Promoting Programs ({{lang|zh-TW|華語文推廣中心}}) that offer Chinese lessons to foreigners who wish to live in Taiwan or to learn Mandarin Chinese as their second or foreign language. The romanisation system taught here nowadays is Hanyu Pinyin ({{lang|zh-TW|漢語拼音}}), whereas in the past they taught Zhuyin ({{lang|zh-TW|注音}}), or BoPoMoFo (ㄅㄆㄇㄈ). The writing system taught is Traditional Chinese and the form of Mandarin is based on the Beijing dialect but the Taiwanese accent is quite noticeable. === [[Martial arts]] === There are many styles of '''kung fu''' ({{lang|zh-TW|功夫}}) taught in Taiwan, largely by masters who came here with the Kuomintang in the late 1940s. Styles include Ba Gua ({{lang|zh-TW|八卦}}), Tai Chi ({{lang|zh-TW|太極}}), Wing Chun ({{lang|zh-TW|詠春}}), Praying Mantis ({{lang|zh-TW|螳螂}}), Shway ({{lang|zh-TW|水}}) Shiao and various weapons systems. Many of the students are westerners in these classes, which has led to the rise of several , and Brazilian Ju Jitsu, Russian Sambo, Japanese Aikido and Taekwondo. Some of the more famous teachers will provide you with the paperwork needed to extend a student visa twice. == Work == [[File:Kaohsiung birdseyeview.jpg|thumb|Kaohsiung skyline]] The majority of travelers who work in Taiwan pick up temporary jobs [[teaching English]]. Jobs teaching other languages (mainly European or Japanese) do exist but have a much smaller proportion of the market. In finding employment with a language school, experience, teaching qualifications and references are not required but obviously help. ===Paperwork=== It is illegal to work without a '''work permit''' and an ARC (or Alien Residency Permit), and legal work requires a university degree and usually a long (over two month) application process. Alternatively, if you have a lot of money, you can obtain an '''investor visa''' by investing a large sum of money in a local business, which allows you to work for that company in a management capacity. Illegal employment is easy to find with employers willing to pay under the table for short durations. If caught or reported, you risk criminal charges and could be deported. The government tends to waver from being very lax on this issue under one administration to suddenly taking action under the next, but it only takes one disgruntled student to report you and have you fined and deported. Consider your options carefully! The '''rules for getting an ARC''' do change often and each administrative part of Taiwan has its own ways of handling them, so it is best to check the pages of the [http://www.forumosa.com/taiwan/index.php website Forumosa] and find out what the experiences of others are in your area. Keep in mind that you can only get an ARC for English teaching if you are a 'citizen of a native English speaking country'. Taiwan's government defines these countries to be only the U.S., Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and South Africa. Almost all teachers apply for an ARC through their employers only after starting work and it is tied to their ongoing employment with that school. Therefore, if the teacher wishes to leave their employment, they will have to quickly find an alternative employer or lose their ARC and hence be required to leave Taiwan. Also, very few schools will arrange an ARC without at least a year-long contract being signed. Frankly, with all this inflexibility, it's no wonder so many teachers opt for the non-legal route. That and tax evasion. Citizens of Germany, Australia, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Ireland and Canada aged 18–30 can apply for a '''working holiday visa'''. For more information, visit the [https://www.boca.gov.tw/lp-153-2.html Bureau of Consular Affairs website]. After living in Taiwan continuously for 5 years, you may apply for '''permanent residency'''. If granted, it allows you to live and work in Taiwan indefinitely without restrictions. === Discrimination in language teaching === Employers of English teachers are notorious for racial discrimination. White people are much more likely to get better offers than those of other races, regardless of ability - On paper, a big issue is also made about accents, with the North American English accent being heavily favored over British, Australian and South African accents in many language schools' sales marketing. In practice, many schools that advertise 'American English' and claim that their teachers are all from Canada or the United States, actually employ teachers from anywhere. Age is a factor, with applicants in their 20s seemingly being preferred. More than anything, appearance is probably the major factor in finding employment with most schools— Do you 'look Western'? — and reliability and turning up on time for work are the major factors for keeping your job. Therefore, if you look the part, it is very easy to find a school willing to take you on for at least a few days. The 'look Western' point has quite a bearing. Unfortunately, Taiwan is hardly a great promoter of '''equal opportunities'''. In many schools, there is a prejudice against teachers applying for jobs who are not of white appearance, seen as the typical Western appearance in Asian countries. This is independent of whether or not the teacher has relevant teaching ability and citizenship of one of the permitted ARC countries. Many parents who send their children to schools to be taught English expect the teacher to look like they are from the U.S., Canada, the UK, Australia, and so on, and so the decision on the part of the school managers is mainly about economics. For those affected by this, it's a sad fact of Taiwan that is unlikely to change shortly. Good employers without such prejudiced requirements do exist, but greater perseverance is needed when looking for them. === Private teaching === A lot of the illegal teaching work that the majority of English teachers partake in is simply through '''private student''' tuition with payment being cash-in-hand. You can find a lot of private students around universities with a Chinese teaching department — look for the areas where all the foreign students are and check the noticeboards. Because most adult private students want to practice English conversation, you don't need Chinese-speaking ability. However, it is definitely a selling point, and Chinese speaking ability is worth mentioning in any advertising of your services. Also, once you have some regular students, remember that in Taiwan, as in most Asian countries, connections, or rather, ''guanxi'', are very important. If your students like you, they will likely recommend you to their family and friends. Teaching English in Taiwan can be lucrative, as the '''salaries''' are very high compared to the cost of living, typically ranging NT$500-650 per hour before deductions in most language schools, with anything between NT$500-1,000 per hour being negotiable for private students. In the past few years, the flow of would-be teachers into Taiwan has increased dramatically, resulting in stiffer competition for jobs and a general drop in wages, and this trend may continue. === Other === Aside from English teaching, '''other common kinds of employment''' available for mainly native English-speaking travelers include such tidbits as small acting parts for TV and film, voice talent (video games, dubbing tracks, etc.), editing and even writing educational materials. Many of these jobs are advertised on billboards in Chinese language-teaching institutes and universities, where there are likely to be many foreign students. Low-paying jobs are also available, common fields are production and elder care. Usually, labour-exporting countries' agents - mostly in [[Southeast Asia]] - will arrange the business, but [https://dhsc.wda.gov.tw direct hiring] provided by the Taiwanese government is also available. If after traveling and living there, you find you are '''serious about working in Taiwan''', the most lucrative employment to be had is if you are employed by a multinational company, perhaps in a high-paying country like the UK, U.S. or Australia, and you are sent across to their office in Taiwan. Many foreigners end up doing the same job as their colleagues who were employed in the Taiwan office but for perhaps 3 or 4 times their pay. == Stay safe == {{cautionbox|Taiwan treats drug offenses ''extremely'' severely. The ''death penalty'' or life imprisonment is mandatory for those convicted of trafficking, manufacturing, importing or exporting more than 15 g of heroin, 30 g of morphine, 30 g of cocaine, 500 g of cannabis, 200 g of cannabis resin and 1.2 kg of opium, and possession of these quantities is all that is needed for you to be convicted. Unauthorized consumption can result in up to 5 years' jail. You can be charged for unauthorized consumption as long as traces of illicit drugs are found in your system, even if you can prove that they were consumed outside the country and you can be charged for trafficking as long as drugs are found in bags that are in your possession or in your room, even if they aren't yours and regardless of whether you're aware of them. Therefore, be vigilant of your possessions.|lastedit=permanent}} === Crime === Taiwan is very safe for tourists, even for women walking down the street alone at night. This is not to say, however, that there is no crime, and you should always take the usual precautions. In crowded areas such as night markets or festivals, for example, [[pickpockets]] are a known problem, but violent crime and muggings are very rare. In addition, it is also very unusual to see drunks on the street, day or night. Like anywhere else in the world, women should be cautious when taking taxis alone late at night. Although they are generally safe, it's a good idea to arrange to have a friend call you when you get home and to be seen making the arrangements for this by the cab driver. It also helps if a friend sees you being picked up as taxis have visible license numbers. [[File:RPO First Police Section Taoyaun Police Station in Taoyuan Station.jpg|thumb|A police station in Taiwan]] Police departments in most jurisdictions have a Foreign Affairs Police unit staffed by English-speaking officers. When reporting a major crime, it is advisable to contact the Foreign Affairs unit in addition to officers at the local precinct. Police stations are marked with a red light above the door and display a sign with the word "Police" clearly printed in English. For more information see the [http://www.npa.gov.tw National Police Agency website]. Foreign victims of a major crime in Taiwan are also advised to report the matter to their government's representative office in Taipei. Also, remember that you call 110 for police in Taiwan, and 119 for fire department or medical help. Most of the public telephone booths allow you to call 110 or 119 for free. See the "Emergency Phone Numbers" section below. Taiwan is home to many triads (Chinese organized crime syndicates), although they almost never target the average person in the street, and most tourists will not encounter them. They are mostly involved in the drug trade, prostitution, illegal gambling and loansharking; avoid these and they will not bother you. Phone fraud is an issue in Taiwan, but scammers only target [[Chinese phrasebook|Chinese]] speakers. Be careful about receiving any unfamiliar calls, even if [[Common scams#Fake cops|they call themselves law enforcement]]. Do not send your money to someone else in any way unless you are ''very'' certain who is sending for and what you are doing. If you are not sure, call 165 to confirm. ===Illicit drugs=== [[File:CKS Airport drugs sign.JPG|thumb|A sign at the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport warns arriving travelers that drug trafficking is a capital offense in the country.]] Taiwanese drug laws are far stricter that what most Westerners might be used to back home. Recreational use of all drugs, hard or soft, is a crime, and even smoking marijuana can result in a prison sentence of up to 3 years. Drug trafficking is a serious offence that could result in the '''death penalty'''. While smoking marijuana is illegal, the cannabis product cannabidiol (CBD) is legal provided you have a doctor's prescription, and it contains no more than 10 ppm (0.001%) tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component that gives you the "high". [[Tobacco#Using e-cigarettes when abroad|E-cigarettes]] are '''banned''' in Taiwan. Importing them can incur up to a NT$50 million fine. ===Military exercises=== [[File:20160225 台東縣政新聞 萬安39號演習25日下午實施 9ebfd80f-d8a3-4444-8eca-58d3473dff15.jpg|thumb|Evacuated streets during Wan-an Exercise.]] The Taiwanese military organizes regular civil-defense exercise, known as Wan-an Exercise ({{lang|zh-TW|萬安演習}}). Air raid sirens are activated for 30 minutes during the exercise, and you are required to follow any evacuation orders made by the military and police. *If you are in a building, you should close all windows and doors and turn off lights. *If you are driving, you must '''pull over your vehicle and make a complete stop'''. Vehicles must not enter any motorways, but must leave the motorway and pull over your vehicle in exits. Traffic police will give proper instructions to drivers and regulate traffic flow. *If you are taking a train/metro, you must not enter the train or leave the station, and should follow evacuation orders given by railway staff, the military and the police. Failure to comply with instructions can result in a heavy fine. === Emergency phone numbers === * '''Police''': 110 **Scam enquiry: 165 *'''Fire/Ambulance''': 119 The police and fire/ambulance offer service in English. Immigration and foreigner assistance can be reached at {{phone|1990 (domestic)}}. The hotline provides 24-hour Mandarin, English and Japanese service, as well as Vietnamese, Indonesian, Thai, and Khmer service from 9AM to 5PM on working days. === Natural hazards === Taiwan often experiences '''[[Cyclones|typhoons]]''' ({{lang|zh-TW|颱風}}) during the summer months and early fall, especially on the East Coast. Heavy monsoon rainfall also occurs during the summer. Hikers and mountaineers should be sure to consult weather reports before heading into the mountains. A major hazard following heavy rainfall in the mountains is falling rocks ({{lang|zh-TW|土石流}}) caused by the softening of the earth and there are occasional reports of people being killed or injured by these. Taiwan is also on the Pacific Ring of Fire, which means that '''[[earthquakes]]''' are a common occurrence. Most earthquakes are barely noticeable, though the effect may be slightly amplified for those in higher buildings. While the local building codes are extremely strict, general precautions should still be observed during an earthquake, including opening the door to prevent it from being jammed, taking cover and checking for gas leaks afterwards. While most newer buildings have been built according to strict codes that enable them to withstand major earthquakes, some of the older buildings were not constructed to such high standards and therefore are vulnerable to serious damage or collapse in the case of a strong tremor. Taiwan's wild areas are home to a variety of '''poisonous snakes''', including the bamboo viper, Russel's viper, banded krait, coral snake, Chinese cobra, Taiwan habu, and the so-called "hundred pacer" ({{lang|zh-TW|百步蛇}}). Precautions against snake bites include making plenty of noise as you hike, wearing long trousers and avoiding overgrown trails. Most snakes are scared of humans, so if you make noise you will give them time to get away. Walking quietly means that you may suddenly startle them around a corner when you appear, and trigger an attack. The Russel's viper, one of the most dangerous snakes in Taiwan, is an exception: it generally prefers to take a stand against threats. === Traffic === Local drivers have a well-deserved reputation for reckless driving. It is possible (even normal) to obtain a driving license in Taiwan without ever having driven on the roads, and this may be a reason (along with the overcrowded roads) why courteous or defensive driving is definitely not the norm. The guiding principles seem to be that the right of way belongs to the larger vehicle, i.e. trucks have the right-of-way over cars, cars over motorcycles, motorcycles over people, etc. Despite traffic's chaotic appearance, it is viscerally intuitive to yield the right-of-way to a much larger vehicle barreling towards you. It is advisable to use slow and smooth movements over quick or sudden ones. Local drivers regularly cut in front of moving traffic into spaces that seem too small, try to change lanes regardless of the fact their destination is already full, etc. Be aware that during busy traffic (i.e., nearly always) two-lane roads will spontaneously become three-lane, an orange light will be interpreted as 'speed up', and the smallest moment's pause in oncoming traffic will result in ''everybody'' that's waiting trying to turn across it. Drivers routinely enter a junction when their exit is blocked, and are therefore frequently still there long after the lights change, blocking traffic traveling in other directions. Many motorcycle riders also have a tendency to zip through any space, no matter how tiny. Also be aware that motorcycles often travel through areas typically considered pedestrian-only spaces, like the night-markets. If you drive a car or a motorcycle, the obvious rule is that if someone turns in front of you, you should be the one to adapt. To avoid collisions, drivers need to be extremely vigilant for other vehicles creating hazards and always be willing to adjust speed or direction to accommodate. Do not expect drivers to yield way, or respect traffic lights in many areas, especially in central and southern Taiwan. Sounding the horn is the usual way a Taiwanese driver indicates that they do not intend to accommodate a driver trying to encroach on their lane, etc., and does not necessarily imply the anger or criticism, as it does in other countries. Be extra careful when crossing the road, even to the extent of looking both ways on a one-way street. When crossing at a pedestrian crossing at a T-junction or crossroads, be aware that when the little green man lights up and you start crossing, motorists will still try to turn right, with or without a green feeder light. Even on roads where traffic is infrequent and the green light is in your favor, bike riders are still strongly advised to check the opposite lane. In Taiwan most traffic lights have countdown timers to alert drivers when light will change from red to green. ===Homosexuality=== Taiwan is generally a safe destination for gay and lesbian travelers. There are no laws against homosexuality in Taiwan and unprovoked violence against gays and lesbians is almost unheard of. Same-sex marriage was legalised in Taiwan on 24 May 2019, making it the first Asian jurisdiction to do so. However, for gay and lesbian foreigners to get married in Taiwan, they either must be marrying a Taiwanese, or both partners must be citizens of countries where same-sex marriage is legal. Same-sex marriage between a mainland Chinese and a Taiwanese is also forbidden. Taiwan is also the first East Asian jurisdiction to have enacted anti-discrimination laws on the basis of sexual orientation in the areas of education and employment. There is an annual gay pride event called Taiwan Pride. Taipei is home to a vibrant gay scene, and there are also gay bars in some of Taiwan's other cities like Taichung and Kaohsiung. Acceptance among the Taiwanese public tends to be measured, and homosexuality is still considered to be somewhat of a social taboo, particularly by the older generation. Openly displaying your sexual orientation in public is likely to draw stares and whispers from some people. Nevertheless, attitudes are changing and homosexuality tends to be more accepted by the younger people. ===Prostitution=== Prostitution is illegal in Taiwan, but some hair salons and massage parlours are really just brothels in disguise. If you see pink fluorescent lighting, tinted windows and skimpily-dressed female stuff, that is usually a sign of a brothel in disguise, and you should probably head elsewhere if you actually want a haircut or massage. ===Dogs=== [[File:Stray dog warning kenting 2.jpg|thumb|A stray dog warning sign in Kenting]] They can be a problem in remote and rural regions, although they are far less numerous than in Thailand and Myanmar. If they get too close to you, picking up a stone or having a big stick is usually a sufficient deterrent. Indigenous Taiwanese hold dogs in higher regard than Han Chinese do. Many indigenous communities have dogs freely running around their communities. == Stay healthy == ===Pollution=== Air pollution can be significant with the highest ratio of scooters per person in the world and a high west coast urban density. You can check air quality real time monitoring [https://map.purpleair.com/air-quality-standards-us-epa-aqi/taiwan?opt=%2F1%2Flp%2Fa10%2Fp604800%2FcC0#7.43/24.268/121.272 on this page]. For reference the USA standard for fine particles (PM2.5) over 24 hours should be below 35&nbsp;µg/m³. It is a good idea to use a mask that can filter fine particles ([http://aqicn.org/mask/ how to choose a mask]), especially when traveling with the elderly or children. === Water === '''[[Water]]''' quality in Taiwan varies depending on location and time. According to the sole water company of Taiwan, tap water is in general safe to drink. However, most locals prefer to boil the tap water before drinking in order to eliminate residual chlorine and bacteria. Taiwan is prone to typhoons and earthquakes, which adversely affects water quality. Some buildings, particularly older ones, may have poorly maintained water towers and/or pipes, resulting in poor quality that is beyond the control of the water company. Depending on the severity, one might either filter the water in addition to boiling or avoid the taps altogether. Alternative options include buying bottled water or going to a "water station" where water is sold through a metered tap. Water from these sources is licensed to be safe for drinking. Bottled water can be bought in 24 hour convenience stores. Water quality in Kaohsiung used to be very poor. As a result, most people today use alternative sources. However, there is little evidence that this is necessary today as the quality has improved drastically. In addition, the mentioned alternative sources today are mostly filtered tap water and do not circumvent the historical source of contamination. === Healthcare === Medicines are available for minor ailments at drug stores. You may also find common drugs requiring a prescription in the west (like asthma inhalers and birth control pills) cheaply available from drug stores without a prescription. Taiwan has both Chinese physicians and Western doctors, both of which are taken equally seriously. However, as a foreigner, the assumption would generally be to direct you to a Western doctor. The quality of the hospitals in Taiwan is excellent and on par with, if not better than those found in the West. Taiwan's healthcare system is considered to be one of the best in the world. Legal residents with a National Health Card can avail themselves of the very convenient and efficient national health service, which covers treatment and medication using both Western and traditional Chinese medicine. However, this service is not available to short term visitors on tourist visas; nor does it cover major hospitalization expenses. Still, hospital visits and medicine in Taiwan tends to be far less expensive than in Western countries. Most Taiwanese doctors are able to communicate in at least basic English, and in fact, many of the top ones have obtained their medical qualifications in the US and are able to speak English fluently. However, you may find the nurses to be more of a challenge. === Hiking === Watch out for mosquito bites when hiking in the mountains. Especially in the summer, the humid and hot weather makes mosquitos very active. Most mosquito bites only cause skin irritation and itching, but in some areas of Taiwan it's possible to contract [[dengue fever]] or Japanese Encephalitis (though they are both rare in Taiwan). Mosquito/insect repellent spray can be found at convenience stores (such as 7-Eleven and FamilyMart) and local pharmacies. If you are bitten by mosquitos, apply a small amount of ointment for irritation relief. == Respect == The Taiwanese are generally a warm and polite people, having been strongly influenced by Confucianism. As Taiwanese culture places a strong emphasis on respect for elders, elderly visitors will find most Taiwanese to be very helpful and accommodating. Naming customs and modes of address are generally the same as in mainland China. See the [[China#Respect|Respect]] section of that article for details. === Culture === [[File:Pagode Kaohsiung amk.jpg|thumb|Pagoda in Kaohsiung]] Taiwan shares several cultural taboos/guidelines with other East Asian nations: * When giving and receiving business cards, always do it using ''both hands'' and with a slight bow of the head. Giving or receiving a business card with only one hand is very disrespectful. * Some Taiwanese are superstitious about anything connected with dying &ndash; unlucky things should never be mentioned. The number 4 (four, pronounced 'si') sounds like the word for death in Mandarin. * Do not write people's names in red. This again has connotations of death. When writing someone's English name, this is not a problem, but avoid writing Chinese names in red. * Do not whistle or ring a bell at night. This is an "invitation to ghosts". * Do not point at cemeteries or graves. This is disrespectful to the dead. * Unlike in some other parts of East Asia, bowing to greet people has fallen out of custom as handshakes and waves have become more common. * There are numerous taboos dictating that certain objects shouldn't be given to others, often because the word for that object sounds like another unfortunate word: ** Clocks. The phrase "to give a clock" ({{lang|zh-tw|送鐘}} ''song zhong'') in Mandarin has the same sound as the word "to perform last rites." If you do give someone a clock, the recipient may give you a coin in return to dispel the curse. ** Shoes. Never ever offer shoes as a gift to old people, as it signifies sending them on their way to heaven. This is acceptable only if by mutual arrangement it is nominally sold, where the receiving party gives a small payment of about NT$10. ** Knives or sharp objects, as they are made for or could be used to hurt the person. ** Umbrellas, which in Mandarin sound the same as the word for "break up". Friends should therefore never give friends umbrellas. Instead, friends will euphemistically "rent" each other umbrellas for a tiny amount (NT$1, for example). * The Taiwanese are certainly not puritanical and enjoy a drink, especially the locally brewed Taiwan Beer and Kaoliang. However, Taiwan does not have a culture of heavy drinking like in Northern China and it is rare to see anyone drunk on the streets. While over indulging in alcohol is not a social taboo as such (and some people do so at weddings), it is considered a sign of lack of self-confidence and immaturity, and doing so certainly won't gain you any respect among Taiwanese friends. * Like in most other East Asian countries, you are expected to remove your shoes before entering a house. You will find some slippers to be worn by visitors next to the entrance door. It is likely to be the same ritual for bathrooms and balconies where you will be expected to remove your slippers to wear a pair of plastic sandals (though it is less shocking not to use the sandals by then). * As you will get along with Taiwanese people, you are very likely to receive small presents of any sort, such as drinks, food or little objects. These are a very convenient way to lubricate social relations for Taiwanese people, and are especially common between friends in their 20s. You should reciprocate any such presents with something similar, but it does not need to be immediate or specially tailored to that person (i.e., keep it simple). As a teacher you are not expected to offer anything in return, as long as the relationship stays formal. However, beware of the sometimes overly generous parents who can go as far as offering presents running in the thousands of NT$ and who will then expect you to take special care of their child (understand that their expectations will be considered fair in Taiwanese culture). * You are not expected to tip in hotels, restaurants and taxis, though bellhops may still expect NT$50 or so for carrying your luggage. * Much like the mainland Chinese, "saving face" is also a major value in Taiwanese culture. In general, you should avoid pointing out other people's mistakes in order to avoid causing major embarrassment and if you really have to, call the person to one side and do it in private, and try to do it in a polished manner. * If you should need to use a temple's washroom, bow to any statues of deities you see on the way whether or not you believe in them. While most people will not mind you using the temple's washroom, they expect you to treat their place of worship with respect. If you plan to offer gifts (such as simple fruits) to the statues of deities in the temple, it is expected that you wash the fruits and your hands prior to offering. In addition, upon entering and leaving a temple, do take and avoid stepping directly on the raised threshold: always try to step over it. You should also never point to the status of deities with your index finger; use your thumb or an up-facing open palm instead. * You will often see '''priority seats''' ({{lang|zh-TW|博愛座}}) on public transportation in Taiwan. These are reserved for the elderly, disabled people, pregnant women and women carrying young children; do not sit in them unless one of those situations applies to you. * '''Cultural identity''' is a complex and sensitive issue in Taiwan. While most Taiwanese people are ethnically Chinese, many people, especially the youth, seek to distance themselves from China with a distinct Taiwanese identity. Many Taiwanese are of the view that Taiwanese culture was violently suppressed by Chiang Kai-shek, who then proceeded to forcibly impose Chinese culture on Taiwan, in an act of cultural genocide. * Eating, drinking, or chewing gum is strictly prohibited in MRT stations and trains after passing the ticket gate. Fines are enforced. === Religion === Most Taiwanese people follow a mix of traditional Chinese folk religions and Buddhism, and it is common to visit temples to offer prayers during important festivals or life events. That said, contemporary Taiwanese society is largely secular in daily life, and religion in general does not play a significant role in people's work or political affiliations. Nevertheless, you are still expected to dress and behave respectfully when visiting temples. As in other Asian countries, swastikas are commonly seen in Buddhist temples as a religious symbol. They emphatically do ''not'' represent Nazism or anti-Semitism. When visiting temples, be sure to enter using the right gate and exit using the left gate (facing inwards). The larger middle gate is traditionally reserved for deities and the Emperor of China, a bit like the central archway of [[London/Westminster|London's Admiralty Arch]]. Also be sure to avoid pointing at the statues of deities with your index finger, as it is considered to be very disrespectful. Use your thumb or an up-facing open palm instead. The most popular traditional Chinese deity in Taiwan is Mazu, a Fujianese shamaness who is believed to have ascended to godhood and now protects sailors, as the Fujianese were largely a seafaring people. [[Christianity]] is the dominant religion among the indigenous Taiwanese, with Presbyterianism and Roman Catholicism being the main denominations. There is also a small Christian minority among the Han Chinese. Taiwanese people are generally tolerant of different religions, and people of all faiths can usually practice their religion without any major problems. The Falun Gong religion which is banned in mainland China is allowed in Taiwan, though attitudes towards them from the local Taiwanese people tend to be very mixed. === Politics === Although there are some correlations, it is highly unwise to assume anything about a particular person's political beliefs based on what you think you know about their background. Also, this very brief sketch of Taiwanese politics obscures a large amount of complexity. Traditionally, mainlanders, indigenous people, Hakka people and people from Kinmen and Matsu tended to be strongly pan-blue, while Taiwanese speakers from Central and Southern Taiwan tended to be strongly pan-green, though this distinction has largely disappeared among the younger generation, who overwhelmingly identify as "Taiwanese" rather than Chinese although they are still generally in favor of the status quo rather than outright independence. Unless you know your listener well, it is unwise to say anything (either positive or negative) about the current government, about historical figures in Taiwanese history, about Taiwan's international relations, or about relations with mainland China. Some political figures such as Sun Yat-sen (who is also popular in the PRC and with the Chinese government) and Chiang Ching-kuo are generally seen positively, but others (Chiang Kai-shek, Lee Teng-hui, Chen Shui-bian, and Ma Ying-jeou) arouse very polarized feelings. Some Taiwanese will get very offended if you imply that Taiwan is part of China. Others will get very offended if you imply that Taiwan is not part of China. Referring to the PRC as "mainland China" ({{lang|zh-TW|中國大陸}} ''zhōngguó dàlù'') rather than simply China will tend not to offend anyone, as the term is generally used to exclude Hong Kong and Macau as well, making it less subjective. Referring to the Republic of China as a whole as "Taiwan Province" will draw a negative reaction from most Taiwanese. "Greater China" may be used in certain business contexts. Keep in mind, however, that there are so many subtleties and complexities here that if you are talking about these things, you've already wandered into a minefield. However, simply referring to the island as "Taiwan" is fine, as that is the name used by the locals, regardless of their political persuasion. Titles such as "Republic of China" are reserved for official matters only. People from Kinmen and Matsu do not identify as Taiwanese and instead identify as Kinmenese/Matsunese or simply Chinese. When in Kinmen or Matsu, you should call the country the "Republic of China", and use "Taiwan" only to refer to the island of Taiwan. '''Relations with mainland China''', as well as the '''Hong Kong protests''', are sensitive issues; tread carefully on these topics. Despite the deep mistrust many Taiwanese have of the communist Chinese government, most locals bear little to no animosity towards individual mainland Chinese visitors. As long as you avoid political discussions and behave yourself properly, you should not run into any problems. ===Japanese occupation=== In contrast to other Asian countries, Taiwanese feelings towards the Japanese occupation (1895-1945) are generally positive, and most Taiwanese regard the legacy of Japanese colonial rule as an integral part of their national and cultural identity, though there are exceptions. People who lived through the period of Japanese rule often bear a certain degree of nostalgia for that time, although there was strong resistance, and massacres of both Han Chinese and indigenous people were carried out throughout the occupation. Nevertheless, many Taiwanese bear a sense of gratitude towards the Japanese for modernizing Taiwan, and Japanese colonial rule is generally regarded more favorably than the subsequent Kuomintang rule under Chiang Kai-shek. Japanese visitors can expect a particularly warm welcome as most Taiwanese admire Japanese culture, and modern Taiwanese culture continues to be heavily influenced by that of Japan. In particular, many shops and tourist attractions are based on a theme of colonial nostalgia. == Connect == ===Internet=== ====Wifi==== Wifi is almost everywhere in large cities and widely available in rural areas. '''''[https://itaiwan.gov.tw iTaiwan]''''' is Taiwan's free, convenient and widespread WiFi, and an answer to today's mobile-dependent population. It is available in almost all public places in Taiwan, such as stations (railways, MRT, and HSR), post offices, and public libraries. You don't need to register to access ''iTaiwan''. Large chain stores and restaurants, on the other hand, use other Wifi services such as '''''[https://www.d1dfreewifi.com.tw/ .1.Free Wi-Fi]''''' that require clicking an advertisement to get online. Other free Wi-Fi services are also available, but they might have problematic security. In addition, most in-house eateries, shopping malls, and restaurants have free Wi-Fi for customers, especially restaurants that take orders from mobile phones by scanning a QR code. ====SIM cards==== If you want an Internet connection to your smartphone, you can purchase a prepaid 4G unlimited data sim card from Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, or Far EasTone at a cost of NT$300 for 3 days, or NT$500 for 7 days (other periods are available as well). Just walk into any official shop to apply (also at all international airports). They need your passport and identification documents of your country of origin, driving license or identification card. You can also buy an eSIM in advance from companies like Nomad or Airalo. You may have to manually select the network and APN. Keep in mind they do offer special promotions on their standard prepaid plans from time to time, and for travellers continuing elsewhere after Taiwan, FarEasTone offer a lineup of reasonably priced "travel SIMs" for travel around Asia, Europe, and North America, while Taiwan Mobile offers flat-rate international data roaming on its standard prepaid SIMs. If you are going to China, travel SIMs or Taiwan Mobile's roaming plans do not censor data there as a local SIM would. ====Gaming cafés==== Not that relevant and widespread anymore, Internet cafés, aka gaming cafés. These are often found on the first or second floor of buildings and equipped with very comfortable chairs and large screens. Although some people do surf the Internet, most people primarily go there for a smooth experience of online gaming. Each hour of Internet access/game play is cheap, coming in at around NT$20. Some machines in the Internet cafés are coin-operated. Police sometimes inspect gaming cafés to make sure teenagers are not developing unhealthy gaming habits or using drugs. Tourists are mostly fine with inspection, but may need to show their identification to the police. === Telephone === [[File:Payphones of Taiwan Fixed Network at THSR Taichung Station 20070105.jpg|thumb|Payphones in [[Taichung]]]] The standard prefix for international calls from Taiwan is 002, though some other companies may use alternative prefixes at lower rates. Check with your telecom operator for more details. Calls to mainland China, Hong Kong or Macau require international dialling. The country code for calls to Taiwan is +886. Most payphones work with telephone cards ({{lang|zh-TW|電話卡}}), which are available at all convenience stores. Numbers Starting With 0800 are commercial toll-free numbers, just like the 1-800 numbers in North America. '''Mobile phone''' coverage is generally excellent in Taiwan, except in some remote mountainous areas. Among the major providers are Chunghwa Telecom ({{lang|zh-TW|中華電信}}), Taiwan Mobile ({{lang|zh-TW|台灣大哥大}}), and Far EasTone ({{lang|zh-TW|遠傳電信}}). Taiwan has both 5G and 4G networks, and inbound roaming agreements are in place between most international providers and at least one of these four (but check with your operator before departure). The last 3G networks were shut down in February 2025. The internationally popular messaging app WhatsApp is not popular in Taiwan. Most Taiwanese use the Japanese messaging app '''[https://line.me/en/ LINE]''' instead. === Media === Taiwan has a very free and liberal press. Taiwan's main newspapers are the Chinese-language ''[https://www.ltn.com.tw/ Liberty Times]'' ({{lang|zh-TW|自由時報}}), ''[https://www.chinatimes.com/ China Times]'' ({{lang|zh-TW|中國時報}}) and ''[http://udn.com/ United Daily News]'' ({{lang|zh-TW|聯合報}}). ''Liberty Times'' is pro-independence, while ''China Times'' and ''United Daily News'' are pro-reunification. The ''[https://money.udn.com Economic Daily News]'' ({{lang|zh-TW|經濟日報}}) and ''[https://ctee.com.tw/ Commercial Times]'' ({{lang|zh-TW|工商時報}}) focus on financial and business news. The sole English-language print newspaper is the ''[http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/ Taipei Times]'' (founded in 1991). Its main competitor ''[https://www.taiwannews.com.tw Taiwan News]'' (founded in 1949 as ''China News'') is no longer available in print, and now is exclusively published online. Both newspapers have adopted a pro-independence editorial stance. Other news sources: *[https://focustaiwan.tw/ Central News Agency] *[https://www.taiwanplus.com/ TaiwanPlus] *[https://taiwantoday.tw/ Taiwan Today] *[https://international.thenewslens.com/ The News Lens] *[https://www.taipeinews.net/ TaipeiNews.net] *[https://www.taiwansun.com/ Taiwan Sun] Free magazines: *''[https://taiwanfun.com/ Taiwan Fun]'' (''Compass'') - A life magazine. You can use it to find delicious food and interesting activities in Taiwan. Radio: * [http://www.icrt.com.tw ICRT] (short for "International Community Radio Taipei") is an English-language radio station available island-wide on FM 100. The programming consists mostly of popular music. There are news bulletins every hour on the hour 07:00–20:00 M–F and 10:00–18:00 on Sa. ===Printing=== Every 7-Eleven and Familymart has cloud printers available for printing documents and even pictures. But for the latter you might be better off with a professional shop. The instructions are in Chinese or English. Costs: NT$1 per document page, plus NT$1 processing fee. ===By mail=== Taiwan has an efficient and reliable postal system run by '''[https://www.post.gov.tw/post/internet/U_english2/ Chunghwa Post]'''. == Cope == ===Electricity=== For electrical sockets, Taiwan uses the same Type A two-pin and Type B three-pin electrical sockets as the United States and Japan. Electricity is supplied at 110 V at 60 Hz. === Embassies and foreign missions === ''See [[Taipei#Cope|Cope section]] in [[Taipei]] guide'' {{usablecountry}} {{isPartOf|East Asia}} {{geo|23.76|120.97|zoom=7}} ajrdnvzmgcfzfcmwfkb8x2i95dwivsc 0 35960 5288941 5105571 2026-06-06T21:56:27Z ~2026-33627-71 2419263 /* Lodging */ Updated listing for Stenbjerghytten 5288941 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Nationalpark Thy Wikivoyage Banner.jpg}} '''Thy National Park''' is in the western part of [[North Jutland]] in [[Denmark]]. ==Understand== Thy National Park was established in 2008, the first national park in Denmark proper. (The first in the kingdom was created in Greenland in 1974.) The park covers an area of 244 km² of land at the western coast of Northern Jutland between Aggertange and Hanstholm. ===History=== ===Landscape=== The coastal part of the park consists of dunes, dune heaths, dune plantations and lakes. The inland part of the park mainly consists of farmland. ===Flora and fauna=== ===Climate=== ==Get in== ==Fees and permits== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Stenbjerghytten | alt= | url= | email=Lonejustandersen@hotmail.com | address=Istrupvej 1, Snedsted | lat=56.919396 | long=8.360844 | directions= | phone=+45 30 57 74 81 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-23 | content= }} ===Camping=== ===Backcountry=== ==Stay safe== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|North Jutland}} {{outlinepark}} {{geo|56.9470|8.4220}} ddxogztnt5b2bw4xuvg6ixjexcv9o8z 0 36184 5289000 5269692 2026-06-07T06:08:16Z ~2026-33442-20 2419406 /* Landscape */ 5289000 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner| Togo banner Fishermen with net.jpg|caption=Togo fishermen}} '''Togo''' is a narrow country in [[West Africa]], sandwiched between [[Ghana]] on the west and [[Benin]] on the east. It is a charming country, mostly due to its charming people as there are not many tourist attractions. Wedged in its skinny size, Togo boasts a deep spiritual heritage and striking sun-drenched landscapes. ==Regions== [[File:Togo Regions map.png|thumb]] {{Regionlist | region1name=Maritime Togo | region1color=#68A2C6 | region1items=[[Lomé]] | region1description=the Atlantic coast and the region that the vast majority of visitors see | region2name=Central Togo | region2color=#66B372 | region2items=Atakpame | region2description=rolling hills and forests, seldom visited, comprising the administrative regions of Centrale and Plateaux | region3name=Northern Togo | region3color=#B397B3 | region3items=[[Kara]] | region3description=land of the Kabye people, comprising the administrative divisions of Savanes & Kara }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#68A2C6|title=[[Maritime Togo]]|wikidata=Q316291}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#66B372|title=[[Central Togo]]|wikidata=Q14210622}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#B397B3|title=Northern Togo|wikidata=Q14227488}} ==Cities== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Lomé]]|wikidata=Q3792}} — capital and largest city in the country *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Aneho]]|wikidata=Q1018574}} — previously known as Anecho, it is a town in southeastern Togo, lying on the Gulf of Guinea near the border of Benin *{{marker|type=city|name=Atakpamé|wikidata=Q126124}} — the capital of Togo Plateaux region *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Badou]]|wikidata=Q2878806}} — a town in western Togo near the Ghanaian border, in Plateaux Region *{{marker|type=city|name=Dapaong|wikidata=Q970904}} — a city in northern Togo and prefecture seat of Tône in the Savanes Region *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kara]]|wikidata=Q860729}} — a city in northern Togo, in Kara Region, 413 km north of Lomé *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kpalimé]]|wikidata=Q995413}} — a base point for Mont Agou, the highest mountain in the country *{{marker|type=city|name=Sokodé|wikidata=Q845097}} — the second largest city in Togo ==Other destinations== *{{marker|name=[[Koutammakou]]|wikidata=Q508040}} – a UNESCO world heritage site where the traditional Batammariba people live in mud tower-houses *{{marker|name=Fazao Mafakassa National Park|wikidata=Q144029}} — the largest of three national parks, in Central Togo, near the border with Ghana *{{marker|name=Kéran National Park|wikidata=Q246121}} — a little-visited park in Northern Togo, with little tourist infrastructure *{{marker|name=Fosse aux Lions National Park|wikidata=Q19461810}} is a national park in the Savanes Region of Northern Togo. The park is approximately 16.5 km² in size. *{{marker|name= Vogan |wikidata=Q2740491}} - a town known for its Friday market which has one of the largest voodoo markets in West Africa ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationTogo.png}} ===History=== [[File:Lomé-Monument de l'Indépendance.jpg|thumb|Independence monument in Lomé]] In an 1884 treaty signed at Togoville, Germany declared a protectorate over a stretch of territory along the coast and gradually extended its control inland. This became the German colony of Togoland in 1905. After the German defeat during World War I in August 1914 at the hands of British troops (coming from the Gold Coast) and the French troops (coming from Dahomey), Togoland became two League of Nations mandates, administered by the United Kingdom and France. After World War II, these mandates became UN Trust Territories. The residents of British Togoland voted to join the Gold Coast as part of the new independent nation of Ghana, and French Togoland became an autonomous republic within the French Union. Togo's size is just less than 57,000 km² (22,000 sq mi). It has a population of more than 6,600,000 people, which is dependent mainly on agriculture. The mild weather makes for good growing seasons. Togo is a tropical, sub-Saharan nation. Togo gained its independence from France in 1960. In 1967, Gnassingbé Eyadéma, the former leader of the country, led a successful military coup, after which he became President. Eyadéma was the longest-serving leader in African history (after being president for 38 years) at the time of his death in 2005. In 2005, his son Faure Gnassingbé was elected president. About a third of the population live below the international poverty line of US$1.25 a day. ===People=== In Togo, there are about 40 different ethnic groups, the most numerous of which are the Ewe in the south (46%, although along the south coastline they account for 21% of the population), Kotokoli and Tchamba in the center, and Kabyé in the north (22%). Another classification lists the Uaci or Ouatchis (14%) as a separate ethnic group from the Ewe, which brings the proportion of Ewe down to 32%. However, there are no historic or ethnic facts that justify the separation between Ewes and Ouatchis. The term Ouatchi may refer to a subgroup of Ewes which migrated south during the 16th century from Notse the ancient Ewe Kingdom capital, although this classification has been contested for being politically biased (it would designate the Ouatchis as a subgroup of the Ewe just as the Anlo in the Republic of Ghana are a subgroup of the Ewe ethnic group). Mina, Mossi, and Aja make up roughly 8% of the population, with under 1% being European expatriates who live in Togo as diplomats and for economic reasons. ===Climate=== The climate is generally tropical with average temperatures ranging from 27°C on the coast to about 30°C in the northernmost regions, with a dry climate and characteristics of a tropical savanna. To the south there are two seasons of rain (the first between April and July and the second between October and November). ===Landscape=== Highly variable stretching from north to south. Gently rolling savanna in north; central hills; southern plateau; low coastal plain with extensive lagoons and marshes. Highest peak is Mount Agou at 3,235 ft. ===Religion=== Indigenous beliefs 51%, Christianity 29%, Islam 20% ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Togo.svg|thumb|375px|Visa policy of Togo{{legend|#D9093C|Togo}}{{legend|#056747|Visa-free access}}{{legend|#FFD000|Visa on arrival}}]] ===Entry requirements=== *A 7-day visa will cost you CFA 10,000-15,000 depending on your nationality at the border or Airport. A one month visa extension costs CFA 500, plus two photo ID (~CFA 1000 for 4 photos). *A 30-day visa bought from the Togo Embassy in [[London]] costs £55. ===By plane=== [[File:2014-06-16 17-21-49 Togo Maritime - Station Météo.JPG|thumb|Lomé airport]] Several airlines offer regular flights to Lomé ({{IATA|LFW}}). '''Ethiopian Airlines''' and '''Royal Air Maroc''' have some good return fares from Europe to Lome. You can also fly to Accra airport in Ghana then get a comfortable, air-conditioned, and reasonably priced bus from Accra to the border at [[Aflao]]. At Aflao, people must walk across the border into Lomé and find their own transport inside Togo. ===By car=== There are bush taxis everywhere. These are basically four door cars, with four people in the back, and two sharing the front. From either Accra or Benin, you can take bush taxis for US$5 to Lomé. From there, you can take them out to more rural areas. You can also offer to pay for the entire car, so that you're not cramped. For this, calculate the price of six people, and then bargain down from there. The Trans-West African Coastal Highway crosses Togo, connecting it to Benin and Nigeria to the east, and Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire to the west. When construction in Liberia and Sierra Leone is finished, the highway will continue west to 7 other ECOWAS nations. A paved highway also connects Togo northwards to Burkina Faso and from there north-west to Mali and north-east to Niger. ===By bus=== There are overland buses from Burkina Faso, Ghana and Benin. ==Get around== A taxi-moto (motorcycle taxi) will cost CFA 150-500 to get you around. You can tell who the taxi-moto drivers are: they will honk or hiss at you as they drive by and usually wear baseball caps and sunglasses. A taxi will usually cost about CFA 500 for a one-way short trip inside the city, for trips to the northern parts of the city expect to pay up to CFA 2,500. Taxis will have yellow licence plates and their registration number painted on the car. Always negotiate before you get on/in, the quoted price will include tip. Sometimes, when you are on a side street, it might be helpful if you ask a security guard to wave down a taxi for you. Tipping CFA 300-600 is expected. ===By train=== There is no train service in Togo. ==Talk== [[French phrasebook|French]] is the national language and the ''lingua franca'' between ethnic groups. Virtually no English is spoken in the whole of the country, aside from business offices and major banks in the capital. [[Ewe phrasebook|Ewe]] is far and away the most widely spoken native language, with the Ewe people populating the southern half of the country. You may also come across the related Mina language in the area around [[Aneho]]. Kabiyè is the predominant language of the north. ==See== [[File:Togo Taberma house 02.jpg|thumbnail|The tatas in Nadoba]] Lomé's markets, both general and voodoo, are the most popular stop in the country along the road between Ghana and Benin. The smaller towns of Togoville on Lake Togo and [[Aneho]] on the ocean are also popular stops for the former's voodoo shrines and historic sights and the latter's beaches. Lately, the coffee growing region around [[Kpalimé]] has become popular with the errant tourist in Togo, with a good number of nice hikes, cooler weather, and pleasant views. Perhaps the most alluring part of the country is the hardest to get to—the hilly and sparsely populated north. The best known destination is Tamberma Valley — the '''[[Koutammakou]]''' UNESCO World Heritage site, to the north of [[Kara]]. The local Batammariba people (known by colonists as the Tamberma) constructed and live in unique Takienta (a.k.a. Tata) "tower-houses" of mud and straw, which arguably have become the Togolese national symbol. It's a surreal dreamland of a place, and easily a highlight of a trip to Togo, although it is a journey to get there. Togo's few parks and reserves are relatively rarely visited, but if you manage to make it out there on a safari, Fazao Mafakassa National Park in the center-west of the country is quite beautiful. In the far north of the country is Kéran National Park, with one of the larger elephant populations in West Africa. Aside from Kéran, the north also offers a ton of potential outdoor excursions, with nice hikes up mountains, out to waterfalls, etc. ''Akloa falls'' ==Do== Sports, especially football, are the main entertaining activity in Togo. You can watch the football league games played in the weekends (check listings). Apart from football, there are several night clubs that can keep you awake at night, and the capital is full of them; the Chess BSBG is among the most popular. TV programs are not the best in the world, with films and sitcoms that have been played for years. The beach offers another type of fun. Many activities and parties are organized there, with people coming from all over Lomé to enjoy the beautiful weather in the weekends. Despite those great things at the beach, you really have to choose a good spot to avoid stepping or sitting on the unwanted. ==Buy== [[File:Voodo-fetischmarkt-Lomé.jpg|thumb|270px|[[Lome]] Fetish Market]] ===Money=== {{Template:Exchange rate CFA}} The currency of the country is the '''West African <abbr title="''Communauté Financière d'Afrique'' or Financial Community of Africa - the CFA franc is issued by the BCEAO (''Banque Centrale des États de l'Afrique de l'Ouest'' or Central Bank of the West African States) in Dakar, Senegal">CFA</abbr> franc''', denoted '''CFA''' (ISO currency code: '''XOF'''). It's also used by seven other West African countries. It is interchangeable at par with the Central African CFA franc (XAF), which is used by six countries. Both currencies are fixed at a rate of 1 euro = 655.957 CFA francs. The West African CFA franc is to be renamed the "eco" by the end of 2027. It would continue to be fixed to the euro. ===ATMs=== All '''Ecobank''' and '''Banque Atlantique''' ATMs in Togo take '''Master card''' and '''Visa card''' for cash withdrawal. ===Costs=== A liter of gasoline will cost you around CFA 600, a liter of water around CFA 300. A baguette is around CFA 175 and half a pound of local coffee will cost CFA 1,200. A beer in the supermarket will cost your around CFA 350, at an expat restaurant this will be around CFA 1,000. A Coca-Cola will cost you CAF 200-400 in the supermarket. "Western food", mostly imported from France, can be found in supermarkets, but is more pricey than in Europe. ===Markets=== The most popular souvenirs from Togo tend to be something voodoo related, like a charm or mask. The obvious place to shop for these curios is Lomé's voodoo market, although you will be paying tourist trap-premium prices. ==Eat== [[File:Fufu (Lomé, Togo).jpg|thumb|Fufu]] Akume is made from corn flour. The "national" dish of West-Africa is Fufu. In Togo, it consists of white yams pounded into a doughy consistency. You will find plenty of Fufu Restaurants in the cities as well as roadside stands. Akume and Fufu are usually eaten with your hands and come with different sauces (from smoked fish to spicy tomato to peanut). Plantains can also be found in various forms; grilled, cooked, mashed or fried. In the season, mangos, papayas, and pineapples are for sale everywhere. There are a lot of local fruits sold on the side of the highways and main country roads - pineapples, oranges, mangoes, etc. You can also sometimes see them selling African fan palm fruits (Borassus aethiopum) which look like orange coconuts. Ripe fruit can be opened by removing the top (cap) and then peeling off the skin (using hands or machete) - then people suck on the bright orange fibres as they are quite sweet and reminiscent of mango. Not for everyone but can be fun if you are into trying out exotic fruits. ==Drink== Lemonade and Bissap juice are the most popular drinks. There are many bars almost around all corners in Lomé where you will be able to have a beer. The most popular drinks you will find in common bars are beers and sodas. Here is a list of the beers you may find based on their popularity: * Pils * Guinness * Castel * Flag * Eku * Lager * Cocktail de fruit * Coca Cola * Fanta * Pompom (apple based soda) * Limonade * Sprite * XXL (red-bull-like soda) * Schwepp's Tonic * Pamplemousse (grapefruit based soda) * Sodawater * Moka * Malta * Malta Guinness Don't be surprised if most of the bars do not have what you ask. The Togolese are not renowned for their organisation and tight management, except one small motel called "Auberge London" in the northern suburbs of Lomé called "Agoe" where you will have all the possible drink listed above. ==Sleep== ==Work== ==Stay safe== [[File:Aného Beach, DSC01106 - by Fanfan.JPG|thumb|Aného Beach]] As a rule, stay away from public beaches, where tourists find themselves mugged any time of day or night. Most of the country has little crime, but Lomé is a clear exception, and is a good deal more dangerous than any city in [[Ghana]] or [[Benin]]. If going somewhere at night, take a car taxi, and get the numbers of a few trusted taxi drivers if you plan to stay for a while. Driving is atrocious in Togo, with fatalistic overloaded speed demons chancing it on curves and hills, capital streets swarming with motorcycles throughout the black of night, and worrisome accident scenes along the main roads. The hilly north-south road north of [[Kara]] is particularly dangerous. If you are skeptical, take a day trip, and marvel at all the husks of buses and trucks that weren't there on the way out! Traffic is the single biggest danger to travelers in Togo. ==Stay healthy== Drink '''bottled [[water]]''' such as Volta or sachets of "Pure Water". Bissop juice is also fairly safe as it is boiled, and avoid the lemonade "citron" despite its delicious appearance. Stay away from roadside meals if possible. People relieve themselves in the streets in Lomé, so be aware of that. In rural areas you can sometimes see vendors on the side of the road selling the Ackee fruit, the trees of which are quite abundant throughout Togo. While locals cook this fruit or eat the yellow arils of it, it is recommended to avoid eating it altogether, as black seeds and red fibrous rinds contain hypoglycin A - a toxin which can cause a "Jamaican Vomiting Sickness" (severe hypoglycemia) and can result in coma or death. ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} Greetings are a little more elaborate in Togo. Say hello to everyone when coming and going. Handshakes are key. Also, maybe if you try to get to know them, you will fit in. Make sure you make yourself feel like you are at home. Don't make it too homey, though, because you don't want to get on their bad side. ==Connect== From some time after 2011, telephone numbers throughout Togo have changed from 7 to 8 digits. The original 7 digit numbers are no longer working in May 2013. Fixed line numbers have an additional 2, so for example, a Lomé number 2## ## ## becomes 22 ## ## ##. Togo Cellulaire, old numbers of the format 9## ## ## become 90 ## ## ##, 0## ## ## and 8## ## ## both are now 91 ## ## ## (the 0 and 8 are both replaced with 91), 7## ## ## becomes 92 ## ## ##. For Moov, numbers starting with 0, 6 or 8 this first digit is replaced by 98 (example: 6## ## ## becomes 98 ## ## ##), numbers starting with 5, 6 or 9 this first digit is replaced by 99 (example: 5## ## ## becomes 99 ## ## ##). [[Lomé]] has Internet cafes, and they are cheap. You buy time by the hour, but most of the cafes feature very slow computers and internet connection speeds. You also have quite a lot of "wifi zones", charging from CFA 100 for an hour to CFA 2000-3000 for a month. You can buy calling cards along the street. It is, however, much cheaper for people in the United States to call with their calling cards to a Togo cell phone. If you come from Ghana and stay close to the border, your Ghana SIM card will work perfectly, no need to buy a Togolese one. {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|8.25|1.2|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|West_Africa}} pivm9y1utbgn375k9lu8eun6zk2j0f1 0 37458 5288997 5288801 2026-06-07T05:11:53Z Sbb1413 2217354 5288997 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|caption=Varanasi}} [[Image:Uttar Pradesh in India (disputed hatched).svg|thumb|Map of [[India]] showing Uttar Pradesh's location]] '''Uttar Pradesh''' ('''UP''', [[Hindi phrasebook|Hindi]]: उत्तर प्रदेश ''Uttar Pradeś'', [[Urdu phrasebook|Urdu]]: اتر پردیش ''Uttar Pradeś''), literally the "Northern Province", is a large state in the [[Plains (India)|Plains]] region of [[India]]. With around 240 million inhabitants in 2021, it is not just more populous than other states of India, but all other sub-national regions in the world. If UP were a country, it'd be the fifth most populous country, just behind Indonesia and ahead of Pakistan. ==Regions== {{Mapframe|width=400|height=400}} ===Western Uttar Pradesh=== {{Regionlist |region1name = [[Upper Doab]] |region1color=#d5dc76 |region1items= |region1description=The northwestern part of the state, home to Delhi's eastern suburbs. |region2name = [[Braj]] |region2color=#b383b3 |region2items= |region2description=Between the Ganges and Yamuna rivers, in the southwestern part of the state. It is home to [[Agra]], the city of the Taj Mahal, as well as the twin pilgrimage sites of [[Mathura]] and [[Vrindavan]]. |region3name = [[Rohilkhand]] |region3color=#71b37b |region3items= |region3description=On the upper Ganges alluvial plain, in the northern part of the state. }} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q2365710,Q1797326,Q2999938,Q1797363,Q1752328,Q1785950,Q1764627,Q1773444,Q5653340|fill=#d5dc76|title=[[Upper Doab]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q766918,Q1773422,Q1814892,Q1773429,Q1946950,Q606343,Q1816657,Q1815288,Q1897251,Q627979,Q1812533,Q890800|fill=#b383b3|title=[[Braj]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q1937865,Q1891677,Q3000436,Q1345006,Q1815331,Q1797378,Q2980705,Q1812557,Q1815262|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Rohilkhand]]}} ===Central and Eastern Uttar Pradesh=== {{Regionlist |region1name = [[Awadh]] |region1color=#ac5c91 |region1description=The central part of the state including the capital, [[Lucknow]], is known as the granary of India, and the centre of various period films of Bollywood and modern films. |region2name = [[Purvanchal]] |region2color=#d09440 |region2items= |region2description=The eastern end of Uttar Pradesh, one of the most ancient regions of India, enjoying a rich heritage and culture. |region3name = [[Northern Bundelkhand]] |region3color=#b5d29f |region3items= |region3description=A geographic and cultural region of gentle hills in the southwestern part of the state. Home to [[Jhansi]], the city of Rani Lakshmibai, as well as the pilgrimage site of [[Chitrakoot]]. }} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q610612,Q1772822,Q1755447,Q1773416,Q1321157,Q1812539,Q1937875,Q456764,Q1071494,Q1814132,Q633114,Q1356154,Q1812548,Q1948380,Q1937857,Q1945458,Q715267,Q1815339,Q1946829,Q1946937,Q1473962,Q1773426,Q2089152|fill=#ac5c91|title=[[Awadh]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q1356139,Q1840355,Q1945445,Q1144349,Q731746,Q49171,Q793553,Q1518847,Q584644,Q1287993,Q1321140,Q2733369,Q607798,Q127533,Q1143894,Q1356060|fill=#d09440|title=[[Purvanchal]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q2089115,Q1937885,Q1947336,Q2019757,Q1815322,Q2131759,Q2089141|fill=#b5d29f|title=[[Northern Bundelkhand]]}} ==Cities== Here are nine of the most notable cities. * {{marker|type=city|zoom=12 | name=[[Lucknow]] | lat=26.84651 | long=80.94668 |wikidata=Q47916}} &mdash; capital of Uttar Pradesh, the City of Nawab, also home to one of the IIMs * {{marker|type=city|zoom=12 | name=[[Agra]] | lat=27.17667 | long=78.00807 |wikidata=Q42941}} &mdash; tourist capital of India, home to three [[UNESCO World Heritage]] Sites, including the Taj Mahal * {{marker|type=city|zoom=12 | name=[[Ayodhya]] | lat=26.80000 | long=82.20000 |wikidata=Q186040}} &mdash; known as the birthplace of the Hindu God Rama and Lord Rishabhadeva, first Tirthankar of the Jains * {{marker|type=city|zoom=12 | name=[[Jhansi]] | lat=25.44843 | long=78.56846 |wikidata=Q242995}} &mdash; historical city of Bundelkhand * {{marker|type=city|zoom=12 | name=[[Kanpur]] | lat=26.44992 | long=80.33187 |wikidata=Q66568}} &mdash; once known as the "Manchester of India", now famous for its leather works and IIT Kanpur * {{marker|type=city|zoom=12 | name=[[Mathura]] | lat=27.49241 | long=77.67367 |wikidata=Q200311}} &mdash; known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna * {{marker|type=city|zoom=12 | name=[[Prayagraj]] | lat=25.43580 | long=81.84631 |wikidata=Q162442}} (Allahabad) &mdash; holy place where the rivers Ganges, Yamuna and Saraswati meet * {{marker|type=city|zoom=12 | name=[[Varanasi]] | lat=25.31765 | long=82.97391 |wikidata=Q79980}} &mdash; one of the holiest cities in India to Hindus on the banks of the Ganges ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=go|zoom=12 | name=[[Dudhwa National Park]] |lat=28.47087|long=80.69926 | image=Kirimachi temple complex.JPG }} &mdash; A project for wildlife preservation * {{marker|type=go|zoom=12 | name=Etawah Safari Park |lat=26.767|long=79.001 | image=Kirimachi temple complex.JPG }} &mdash; A project for wildlife preservation * {{marker|type=go|zoom=12 | name=Pilibhit Tiger Reserve |lat=28.7052803|long=80.0616545 | image= }} * {{marker|type=go|zoom=12 | name=[[Sarnath]] | lat=25.37617 | long=83.02271 |wikidata=Q324394}} &mdash; the site of the Buddha Sakyamuni's first teaching after gaining enlightenment ==Understand== Uttar Pradesh (''[[Hindi|UT-tuhr pruh-DAYSH]]'') is the fourth largest state in terms of land area. The western plain is the most urban region. Agriculture is the most important section of Uttar Pradesh’s economy, employing about three-quarters of the work force. Uttar Pradesh has the largest production of food grain and oilseeds in India. In addition, UP ranks the first in the production of wheat, maize, barley, gram, sugar cane, and potatoes. The three most important industries of UP are sugar, cotton fabrics and diversified food preparations. Goods carrier equipment, photostat machines, chemicals, polyester fibre and steel tube galvanized sheets are the other big industries of UP. Kathak, one of the eight recognised classical dance forms in India, was born in Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, the countryside songs and dances are significant traits of the local culture. Uttar Pradesh is famous for handicrafts such as carpet weaving, hand printing, chikan (a type of embroidery), metal enamelling, brocade and brass, and ebony work. Uttar Pradesh has the biggest brass and copperware manufacturing industry in India. === History === The State of Uttar Pradesh has an ancient and rich history. It was recognised in the later Vedic Age as Brahmarshi Desha or Madhya Desha. Many great sages of the Vedic times flourished in this state. Several sacred books of the Aryans were also composed here. Two great epics of India, Ramayana and Mahabharata, appear to have been inspired by Uttar Pradesh. Uttar Pradesh has played a vital role in the history of many different religions. In the sixth century BCE, Uttar Pradesh was associated with two new religions - [[Jainism]] and [[Buddhism]]. It was at [[Sarnath]] that the Buddha preached his first sermon and laid the foundations of his order, and it was in Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh, where Buddha breathed his last breath. Several pilgrimage centres in Uttar Pradesh like [[Ayodhya]], [[Prayag]], [[Varanasi]] and [[Mathura]] became reputed centres of learning. In the medieval period, the area passed under Muslim rule and led the way to new synthesis of Hindu and Islamic cultures. Ramananda and his disciple Kabir, Tulsidas, Surdas and other intellectuals contributed to the growth of literature in Khadiboli, Braj Bhasha, Awadhi and other languages nowadays treated as dialects of Hindi. Uttar Pradesh preserved its intellectual excellency even under the British administration. The British combined [[Agra]] and [[Awadh|Oudh]] into one province, and called it United Provinces of Agra and Oudh. The name was shortened to the United Provinces in 1935. In January 1950, the United Provinces was renamed as Uttar Pradesh. ===Orientation=== The state is bounded by the states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh as well as Nepal to the north, Haryana and Delhi to the west, Madhya Pradesh to the south, and Bihar to the east. Uttar Pradesh can be divided into two distinct regions, (i) Southern hills and (ii) Gangetic plain. ===Visitor information=== Official websites: * [https://uttarpradesh.gov.in/ Government of Uttar Pradesh] * [https://uptourism.gov.in/ Uttar Pradesh Tourism]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== Uttar Pradesh has international airports at [[Kushinagar]], [[Lucknow]], [[Varanasi]] and [[Ayodhya]], with another fifth international airport in [[Noida]] expected to open in late 2024. Besides, the state also has some smaller airports with domestic operations. ==Get around== ==See== * Sangam, Anand Bhavan, Minto Park, Sita Samahit Isthal, Company Garden, New Yamuna Bridge, and lots more in the holy city Allahabad (Prayag). * Ghats at Varanasi (Kashi). * Nawab's or Royal city Lucknow. ==Do== Take a holy dip in Sangam at Allahabad and visit ghats at Varanasi and it is a very royal place. In Lucknow, there is a place called Chowk. Chowk has tons to offer (in terms of touristy locations like the Imambaras) and its narrow streets are interesting. ==Eat== The cuisine consists of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Uttar Pradesh's most famous dishes include kebabs, Dum Biryani, and various Mutton recipes. The Chaat, samosa and pakora, among the most popular snacks in all of India, are also originally from Uttar Pradesh. Uttar Pradesh has been greatly influenced by Mughal cooking techniques. Mughali cuisine is also integral to Western and Central Uttar Pradesh's cuisine. The state is famous for its Nawabi foods (of Lucknow and environs) and use of mutton, paneer, and rich spices including cardamom and saffron. Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, is a heaven for food lovers due to the sheer range of variety available. Lucknow, before being the seat of Nawabs (Kings) of the Awadh region, is the birth place of the famous Awadhi cuisine. Awadhi cuisine bears similarities to those of Kashmir and Punjab. It is a good place to find refined Muslim Indian food. During your visit, go to Old Lucknow. It's normal to visit eateries which are 150-200 years old, serving famed Lucknowi Biryani (mutton & Basmati rice preparation with exotic herbs), nehari, kulcha, sheermal and many more traditional dishes. Varanasi is another city where people live for eating. It is famous for the Hindu vegetarian thali style which includes chaat, tikki, and kachori, among others. ==Drink== Always have a keen eye to famous drinks like Lassi, Kullahd, etc. People will guide you very well for that. ==Stay safe== Uttar Pradesh is notoriously known for kidnapping, particularly outside the metropolitan cities. While this is mainly of concern to residents, as always, travel sensibly and remain vigilant. ==Go next== {{geo|26.85|80.91|zoom=8}} {{IsPartOf|Plains (India)}} {{outlineregion}} 5eaucp91k1yzm5vta7g95pqgdranw4z 0 37699 5288861 5286747 2026-06-06T13:46:28Z Globetrotter30 2363356 /* Understand */ took a recent trip to Varanasi, the govt has banned sewage flows into Varanasi, and also the river is far more cleaner. It looks way more maintained, and clean 5288861 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Varanasi banner.jpg|unesco_cc=yes<!-- City of Music -->}} '''Varanasi''' ([[Hindi phrasebook|Hindi]]: वाराणसी ''Vārāṇasī''), once known as '''Benares''' or '''Banaras''' and '''Kashi''', is a city at the banks of the Ganges River in [[Uttar Pradesh]], [[India]]. Being the most sacred city in [[Hinduism]] and Jainism, and important in the history of [[Buddhism]], Varanasi is India's most important pilgrimage destination. It was home to 1.2 million people as of 2011. ==Understand== [[File:India - Varanasi sun greet - 0270.jpg|thumb|300px|Hindu priest saluting the sun in the Ganges]] {{infobox|Mark Twain|Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together}} Varanasi (vah-rah-nnuh-see) is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with settlements dating back to the 11th century BCE. Many Hindus believe that dying in Varanasi brings salvation (variously termed as ''moksha'', ''mukti'' or ''nirvāṇa'') and so they make the trip to the city when they realise that they are close to death. For some, the culture shock of the burning corpses in plain view can be a bit overwhelming. However, the scene of pilgrims doing their devotions in the River Ganga at sunrise set against the backdrop of the centuries-old temples is probably one of the most impressive sights in the world. ===Climate=== {{climate chart |Varanasi |8.9 |22.2 |14.2 |12.2 |26.9 |19.3 |16.5 |33.3 |9.4 |21.9 |39.3 |10.3 |25.7 |40.7 |16.7 |27.5 |38.9 |108.8 |26.5 |34.3 |293.7 |26.1 |33.3 |259.3 |25.2 |33.4 |206.9 |21.0 |33.1 |30.6 |14.8 |29.7 |4.8 |10.2 |24.4 |2.7 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Varanasi]] |description= }} The city can be scorchingly hot in the summer months so instead, if possible, time your visit between October and March, and bring something warm to wear for chilly days and nights. ===Tourist information === * [https://varanasi.nic.in/tourism/ Varanasi tourism information] ==Get in== {{mapframe|25.300|82.999|zoom=12}} Varanasi is well connected by plane, train, and bus. Varanasi is mostly on the west bank of the Ganges. The {{marker|type=go|name=Malviya Bridge|wikidata=Q6745129}} on the north and {{marker|type=go|name=Ramnagar Bridge|lat=25.271342|long=83.019995}} on the south connect the city to the eastern parts of India. ===By plane=== *{{go | name=Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport | alt={{IATA|VNS}} | url=https://www.aai.aero/en/airports/varanasi | email= | address=Babatpur | lat=25.452222 | long=82.859444 | directions={{km|25}} NW of the city centre. A taxi to/from the airport takes an hour and costs ₹750, while a tuk-tuk/auto-rickshaw can take twice as long and costs ₹500. Allow extra time due to traffic. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3276974 | lastedit=2023-05-01 | content=[http://www.airindia.com/ Air India], [http://www.jetkonnect.co.in/ JetKonnect], [http://www.spicejet.com/ SpiceJet], and [http://www.goindigo.in/ IndiGo] all operate regular flights to [[Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Kolkata]], [[Bengaluru]], [[Hyderabad]], [[Khajuraho]] and [[Visakhapatnam]]. There are flights to [[Sharjah]] on Air India Express, to [[Kathmandu]] on Buddha Air and to [[Bangkok]] on Thai Airways. }} ===By train=== {{see also|Rail travel in India}} There are multiple daily services to cities including [[Delhi]] (13 hours), [[Agra]] (13 hours), [[Lucknow]] (7 hours), Mumbai (25-27 hours), [[Kolkata]] (12-14 hours) and [[Siliguri]] (14-16 hours). Varanasi is served by three major railway stations: * {{go | name=Varanasi Junction | alt=station code: BSB | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.326486 | long=82.985811 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Varanasi Junction railway station | image=India - Varanasi - 039 - coming and going and waiting at the train station (2146294009).jpg | wikidata=Q3544938 | content=The trip between the train station and the Ganges riverfront costs ₹100 in an auto-rickshaw. Also called "Cantt" / Varanasi Cantt station for being situated near cantonment. }} * {{go | name=Banaras | alt=station code: BSBS | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.300001 | long=82.972079 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6748220 | lastedit=2023-05-01 | content=The trip between the train station and the Ganges riverfront costs ₹100 in an auto-rickshaw. }} * {{listing | type = go | name = Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction | alt = Mughalsarai Junction, station code: DDU | url = | email = | address = | lat = 25.2767 | long = 83.1173 | directions = | phone = | tollfree = | fax = | hours = | price = | wikipedia = Mughalsarai Junction railway station | image = Mughalsarai Station 2.jpg | wikidata = Q6932166 | lastedit = 2019-08-10 | content = Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction is about 20 km east of the city. The trip between the train station and the Ganges riverfront costs ₹1,000 by taxi and ₹350 by auto. }} Here is a list of useful trains to reach Varanasi: {| class="wikitable sortable" border=1 |- !Train Number !Train Name !You may board at !You may alight at |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 22436] |Vande Bharat Express |[[New Delhi]] |Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12424] |Rajdhani Express |[[New Delhi]] |Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12436] |Rajdhani Express |[[New Delhi]], [[Lucknow]] |Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12560] |Shivganga Express |[[New Delhi]] |Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12165] |Lokmanya Tilak (T) - Varanasi Express |Lokmanya Tilak Terminus ([[Mumbai]]) |Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12336] |Lokmanya Tilak (T) - Bhagalpur Express |Lokmanya Tilak Terminus ([[Mumbai]]) |Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12333] |Vibhuti Express |[[Howrah]] |Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction, Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12307] |Howrah-Jodhpur Express |[[Howrah]] |Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12669] |Ganga Kaveri Express |[[Chennai]] Central |Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12295] |Sangamitra Express |KSR [[Bengaluru]] City, [[Chennai]] Central |Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 17091] |Secunderabad-Patna Express |Secunderabad Junction ([[Hyderabad]]) |Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction, Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 14854] |Marudhar Express |[[Jaipur]], [[Agra]] Fort |Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 14864] |Marudhar Express |[[Jaipur]], [[Agra]] Fort |Varanasi Junction |} ===By bus=== [[File:Morning Aarti of the Ganges, ghats of Varanasi.jpg|thumbnail|Morning prayer]] * {{go | name=Bus station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.328924 | long=82.989972 | directions=E of {{station|Varanasi Junction|city=india|nr}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-30 | content=An auto from the bus station to the Ganges riverfront costs ₹150. }} ====Arriving from Nepal==== Buses are available from major cities in [[Nepal]] to the border city of [[Sunauli]]. From the Sunauli bus station, take a rickshaw (₹200) to the border crossing, get your passport stamped on the Nepali side then walk through the border. After 100 m of walking through no-man's land, you will find the Indian immigration office hidden away on the left-hand side of the road. After going through Indian immigration, walk 300 m and find the bus stop on the right-hand side. From there, take the government bus to [[Gorakhpur]], not the private lines which are far less comfortable and stop everywhere. The bus trip between the border and Gorakhpur takes 4 hours and costs ₹60. To reach Varanasi from Gorakhpur, you can either take a train from Gorakhpur Junction (5-7 trains per day, 5.5-7 hour journey, ₹200-800 cost) or a bus (hourly, at least 8-hour journey, ₹130 cost). Budhha Air has also some packages for devotees visiting Varanasi. The cheapest option is perhaps to take the bus in Kathmandu from the Monkey Temple to Birganj/Raxaul for about ₹700, and take a train from Raxaul to Varanasi- but you risk not making the border by 10PM because of breakdowns and the Raxaul-Varanasi train doesn't run often. ====Arriving from nearby cities==== There are buses run by state government from [[Lucknow]] (8 hours, ₹160), [[Gorakhpur]] (8 hours or more, ₹130), [[Khajuraho]] (12 hours, ₹250), [[Kanpur]] (9 hours - ₹195), [[Faizabad]] (7 hours, ₹105), [[Bodh Gaya]] (7 hours, ₹600) and [[Prayagraj]] (3 hours - ₹107 for AC, ₹60 w/o AC). ==Get around== [[File:India - Varanasi street traffic - 0777.jpg|thumb|Traffic in Varanasi.]] Many streets are too narrow to be reached by cycle-rickshaw, auto-rickshaw, and car and therefore, you may have to walk a bit to reach your destination. ===By foot=== Walking is the only way to see the waterfront and the ghats - but be ready to be hot, sweaty, and lost - locals are usually happy to point you in the right direction. The names of ghats and signs pointing to restaurants and hotels are often painted on the walls in Roman letters. For better orientation, walk into any bookstore and pick up a small guide/map book that will have the list and description of all the ghats. ===By rickshaw=== The chaotic streets of Varanasi are sometimes too much to handle on foot. Therefore, it will often be convenient to travel by cycle rickshaw or auto-rickshaw. A short journey of a few kilometres should cost under ₹50, while a longer journey within the city, such as between the ghats and the train station, will cost ₹100. Further journeys, such as to [[Sarnath]] (10 km), cost ₹500 there and back (with a one- to two-hour waiting period) or ₹300 one way by auto-rickshaw. There is a pre-paid auto-rickshaw stand at {{station|Varanasi Junction|city=india|nr}}. ===By car or taxi=== While taxis and cars-for-hire do exist, you can hire them for airport/railway/bus station transfers and for major city tour specially for BHU,Sarnath and Ramnager tour. You Can travel from other cities to varanasi by Car as its well connected by major cities of country. * {{listing | name=Big Cab Varanasi | alt= | url=https://bigcab.in | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-21 | content=Big Cab Varanasi is also present in Varanasi. }} ===By bicycle=== Bicycle rental is available from many vendors. Inquire at your hotel. ==See== [[File:Rajghat Varanasi 5.jpg|thumb|Rajghat, Varanasi]] Varanasi is not a city with distinct tourist destinations; the experience is in watching the spectacle of life and death on the river and meandering through the alleys of the old city. * {{see | name=Jantar Mantar | alt=Man Mandir Observatory | url= | email= | address=Terrace of Man Singh Ghat | lat=25.307721 | long=83.010701 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q21069423 | content=Jantar Mantar literally means a combination of instruments and formulas (jantar = instrument and mantar = formula). It is an observatory consisting of a series of masonry architecture of unique form, each with a specialized function for astronomical measurement. Jai Singh, king of Amber, built 5 such observatories across northern and western India. Apart from Varanasi the other 4 places are [[Jaipur]], [[Delhi]], [[Ujjain]] and [[Mathura]] (one in Mathura no longer exist). The Varanasi Jantar Mantar is much smaller compared to the ones in Delhi and Jaipur. The observatory houses 6 instruments of 5 types (it has 2 Samrat Yantra or sun dial). Apart from the observatory, the Man Mahal houses a Virtual Experiential Museum showing a series of light and sound shows. The shows include one on the mythology of the Ganges and its course. There are models depicting life in Varanasi and including a model of a pan shop. There is an interactive musical gallery. }} * {{see | name=Ramnagar Fort | alt=Ramnagar Palace | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.26977 | long=83.02439 | directions=on the eastern bank of the river | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4492020 | content=The fort of the King of Kashi, built in 1750 in the Mughal style, is now a museum with a collection of ancient weapons and other artefacts. It was built by Raja Balwant Singh of Banaras of red sandstone and has a unique blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture. It has grand courtyards, intricate carvings and beautiful gardens. Inside the palace, there is a costume museum, famous for showcasing the royal collection of costumes and textiles including traditional Varanasi sarees, weapons and many other antiques. }} (entry 200 rupies - updated October 2024) * {{see | name=Rajghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.325978 | long=83.035508 | directions=(north of Malviya Bridge next to Rajghat) | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM - 5PM | price=₹ 200 (same ticket for Lal Khan Tomb and Rajghat) | lastedit=October 2024 | content=This archaeological site was the result of a chance discovery in the 1940s when the Kashi Railway Station was extended. After a couple of excavations, a structure was unearthed dating back to the 2nd century BCE. The archaeological evidence suggested that the place was continuously inhabited since the 8th century BCE. Today it consists of several scattered brick structures rising only to a height of {{ft|3|to|4|abbr=out}}. }} * {{see | name=Rani Laxmibai Janmasthali | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.289875 | long=83.005649 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-10-11 | content=Birthplace of Rani Laxmibai. It has been converted into a small gallery. A statue of Laxmibai riding a galloping horse welcomes visitors to the gallery. The walls behind and on the two sides of the statue are converted into a gallery complete with images and writeups. They depicts the life of Rani Laxmibai. Most of the writings are in Hindi. }} ===Ghats and the Ganges=== {{infobox|Floating away|While the use of ghats for cremation is well known, they are also used to give last rites to those who do ''not'' need cleansing by fire to purify their soul, including young children and pregnant women. Instead, their bodies are wrapped in cloth, weighted with stones and deposited into the Ganges. However, it is fairly common for the ropes to give way, resulting in '''putrefying corpses''' washing up on the east shore across from the city. Steer clear if squeamish.}} [[Image:Ghats in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India (2000) 2.jpg|thumb|Harishchandra Ghat (burning ghat)]] [[File:Matri-rin Temple in Varanasi.jpg|thumb|Ratneshwar Temple, Manikarnika Ghat]] The Ganges is the most sacred river in the world for Hindus, and you will see traditional rituals and bathing occurring at all times of the day. On the Eastern banks, the Ganges is flanked by a 300-m-wide sand belt, beyond which lies a green belt, a protected area reserved for turtle breeding. The western crescent-shaped bank of the River Ganga is flanked by a continuous stretch of 84 '''ghats''', or series of steps leading down to the river, stretching for 6.8 km. These ghats were built by Hindu kings who wanted to die along the Ganges, and they built lofty palaces along the river, most of which are now hotels, to spend their final days. You can walk along the river and see all of the ghats, but the best option for viewing the ghats is to charter a boat and see them from the river. Hindus consider it auspicious to die in Varanasi, so some ghats are known as '''burning ghats''', where over 200 corpses per day are cremated in full view before their ashes are eased into the Ganges. Some of the most popular ghats, from north to south: * {{see | name=Panchganga Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.31502 | long=83.01789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q25238213 | content=the meeting of the five rivers. }} * {{see | name=Manikarnika Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.31087 | long=83.01409 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3630417 | content=The main cremation ghat; a must-see, but remain quiet and avoid taking photographs (scams are plentiful here; see the "Stay Safe" section). There's a {{m|74}} temple on the ghat called Ratneshwar Temple, which is leaning by 9°, more than the Leaning Tower of [[Pisa]]. Its sanctum is generally underwater most of the year, except during the summer. }} * {{see | name=Dashashwamedh Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.30818 | long=83.00993 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3630402 | content=Known as the 'main' ghat, this is the site of the large evening ''aarti'' ceremony. The ceremony starts right after the sunset and lasts for around 45 minutes. }} * {{see | name=Rana Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.30507 | long=83.00924 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The ghat is on the banks of the Ganges which helps people to do religious ceremonies without any difficulty. }} * {{see | name=Kedar Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.29943 | long=83.00760 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Brightly painted in stripes and busy with bathers, very photogenic. }} * {{see | name=Narad Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.30219 | long=83.00781 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The ghat on which bathing with spouse is not advised because of the myth of contention. }} * {{see | name=Harishchandra Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.29810 | long=83.00731 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The cremation place where Raja Harishchandra did the last rituals of his son. }} * {{see |name=Hanuman Ghat |content=It used to be known as Ramesvaram Ghat and is at a holy spot known as Juna Akhara in Varanasi. People believe that the Ghat was constructed by Lord Rama and hence it is dedicated to his favourite disciple, Lord Hanuman. }} * {{see | name=Shivala Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.29647 | long=83.00716 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q55082186 | lastedit=2023-12-17 | content=The ghat was constructed by King Balwant Singh and played an important role during the Middle Ages. It comes under the western part of Varanasi and as the name suggests disciples connected the ghat with Lord Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Tulsi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.29039 | long=83.00645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Site of the large water purification plant. }} * {{see | name=Assi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.28865 | long=83.00676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Assi Ghat | wikidata=Q4808835 | content=A popular place for tourists, long-term students and researchers to stay, with many hotels, restaurants, and internet cafes nearby. The morning aarti, known as ''Subah e Banars'', is held at the Assi Ghat. }} ===Religious buildings=== [[File:Lal Khan Tomb 1.jpg|thumb|Tomb of Lal Khan]] ====Mosques and tombs==== * {{see | name=Lal Khan Tomb | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.326081 | long=83.034692 | directions=north of Malviya Bridge next to Rajghat | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9 Am - 5 PM | price=₹ 200 (same ticket for Lal Khan Tomb and Rajghat) | wikidata=Q66662448 | lastedit=October 2024 | content=Lal Khan was the minister and commander of Balwant Sing (reign: 1740 – 70) the King of Varanasi (then Banaras). His last wish was to be buried in such a place so that he could keep an eye on the gateway of the royal palace. The king kept his last wish by building him a magnificent tomb on the northern edge of Varanasi. The tomb stands at the centre of a Mughal garden, marked with four chhatris on four corners out of which three stand to this day. The tomb stands on an elevated square plinth, which also houses several graves. so that he could keep an eye on the gateway of the royal palace. The tomb is crowned with a single dome flanked with chhatris on four corners. Each side has three arches with the central arches slightly higher than the side ones. The highlight of the tomb is the decorative multi-coloured tile work. Sadly, the colours have faded, robbing the tomb of its elegant look. }} * {{see |name=Alamagir Mosque | url= |lat=25.31526 |long=83.01796 |content=Overlooking Panchganga Ghat, it's a great place for a bird's eye view of the area. }} * {{see | name=Gyanvapi Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.31125 | long=83.01043 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3154 | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content=A rather controversial mosque built during the rule of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. It is believed among the Hindus that the Gyanvapi Mosque is the original site of Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Photography is prohibited. }} ====Temples==== [[File:20220519159L2022071406593520220714082601.jpg|thumb|Kashi Vishwanath Temple]] [[File:New Vishwanath Temple at BHU 2007.jpg|thumb|New Vishwanath Temple, BHU]] Many temples in Varanasi are off-limits for non-Hindus. * {{see |name=Bharat Mata Temple | url= |lat=25.31725 |long=82.98930 |content=The Bharat Mata temple at Varanasi is the only temple dedicated to Mother India. It is located in the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth campus. The Bharat Mata temple was built by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupt and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936. The statute of Bharat Mata is built in marble and is a model of undivided India, depicting the mountains, plains and oceans. The most peculiar thing about the Bharat Mata Temple is that instead of the customary gods and goddesses, it houses a relief map of India, carved out of marble. }} * {{see |name=Durga Temple | url= |lat=25.28219 |long=83.04015 |content=Built in the 18th century, the Durga temple was made as a tribute to Goddess Durga. It is also one of the well-known temples in Varanasi. }} * {{see |name=Gauri Matha Temple | url= |lat=25.31765 |long=82.97391 |content=The devi at this temple is supposed to be the sister of the lord Kashi Vishwanath. It is a tradition to visit her just before you leave Kashi. You buy sea shells at this place and offer them to God saying that the virtues of donating the shells go to her while you keep the virtues of having visited the holy shrines in Kashi and bathing in the Ganges. The trip to Kashi is expected to yield results only after completing this custom. }} * {{see |name=Kaal Bhairav Temple | url= |lat=25.31765 |long=82.97391 |content=It is the temple for '''Kaal Bhairav''' - a dreadful form of Lord Shiva symbolising death. It is a tradition to buy black threads (costs about ₹15 per 50 threads as of Sep 2009), keep it in the shrine and then wear it on the arm, wrist or around the neck as a protection against evil forces. }} * {{see | name=Nepali Hindu Temple | alt=Kathwala Temple | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.31765 | long=82.97391 | directions=near Lalita Ghat | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24912881 | content=This small, golden temple was built by the 19th-century exiled king of Nepal, Rana Bahadur Shah. It is shaped in the typical Nepali pagoda architectural style. }} * {{see | name=Kashi Vishwanath Temple | alt=The Golden Temple | url=http://www.shrikashivishwanath.org/ | email= | address= | lat=25.310775 | long=83.010614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3675 | lastedit=2023-12-17 | content=The most famous temple in the city, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shaivism. The temple was destroyed multiple times by Mughal invaders and was reconstructed by Hindu kings who followed them. There are four gates to enter the temple. The main gate, called "Ganga Dwar", is accessible from the Manikarnika Ghat. There is a wide corridor leading to the main temple. Security is tight making entrance to the main temple difficult and sometimes completely off-limits to foreigners. Bags, mobile phones or pens are not allowed inside the main temple, although they are allowed within the corridor. You have to deposit them at the "mobile lockers" within the corridor area. If you enter the temple from other three gates, you have to deposit the prohibited items at the nearby shops. }} * {{see |name=Tulsi Manas Temple | url= |lat=25.28577 |long=82.99652 |content=Located near the very popular Durga temple, this marvellous temple is dedicated to lord Rama. Tulsi Manas temple was established during 1964 in the form of white marble structure. }} * {{see | name=Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple | alt=Sankatmochan Mandir| url=http://www.varanasi.org.in/sankat-mochan-temple | email= | address=27, Durgakund Rd, Jawahar Nagar Colony, Bhelupur | lat=25.2886 | long=82.9993 | directions= | phone=+91 99354 67417 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=sankatmochan Mandir, Varanasi | image=Sankat Mochan temple entrance, Varanasi - IRCTC 2017 (1).jpg | wikidata=Q19891383 | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Sankat Mochan Temple is dedicated to the Lord Hanuman. This temple is also called as the Monkey temple because of the presence of lot of monkeys inside the premises. It is one of the holy temples of the Lord Hanuman and the main location for Hindus for their many religious as well as cultural festivals. It is located in the southern part of Varanasi, on the way to the Durga Mandir and New Vishwanath temple BHU. The meaning of the Sankat Mochan is relief from all the problems (Sankat means problem and Mochan means relief giver). Sankat Mochan Temple was constructed by the educationist and freedom fighter Pt. Madan Mohan Malviya (the founder of the BHU) in the early 1900s. The Hanuman Jayanti (birthday of the Lord Hanuman) is celebrated every year by organising a special Shobha Yatra (a parade) from Durga temple (Durga Kund) to the Sankat Mochan Temple. }} ==Do== [[File:India - Varanasi men praying - 0283.jpg|thumb|Men praying between boats in the Ganges]] [[File:India - Varanasi street signs - 1207.jpg|thumb|Varanasi alleyways]] [[File:India - Varanasi street scene cows donkey - 1180.jpg|thumb|Varanasi street scene by the Ganges]] *'''Bathe in the Ganges''' - Over 60,000 people come to the ghats every day to take a dip in the sacred waters of the Ganga, most notably at sunrise. This is a fantastic sight to see. However, due to the municipal sewage drains that discharge raw sewage into the river, along with sunken corpses, there is a risk of infection from numerous diseases such as hepatitis and bacteria such as e-coli. Reports have shown that the Ganges water has a faeca coliform MPN of 88,000 per 100 ml, compared to a desirable faecal coliform MPN of 500 per 100 ml. *'''Walking tours''' are operated by many companies, walking tours are a great way to see some of the harder-to-find sights such as the Flower Market and Ayurvedic Herb Market * '''Boat rides''' - Very popular, especially at sunrise and sunset. Boats can either be rowboats or motorboats. The most popular sunset ride is to start at Dasaswamedh Ghat or one of the many ghats along the river and head up to Manikarnika Ghat to see the cremations, then down to Dasaswamedh just after sunset to watch the evening ''aarti'' ceremony from the boat. Sunrise is another magical time for a ride, when the ghats are filled with Hindus bathing and starting their day - one of the most famous sights in India. You can bargain the price of the boat ride to around ₹50/person per hour. During the boat ride, other boats, usually manned by children, will float up to your boat to sell bowls with flowers and a candle to be offered to the river (₹10) or masala chai (₹10), or various trinkets that are overpriced. It is recommended to avoid polluting the river further by 'offering' non-biodegradable objects to the river. At Nishadraj Ghat, a few minutes walk from Assi Ghat, you can find a boat driver named Bhomi, a local singer renowned for his incredible voice and charming, beautiful songs; during the boat ride he sings anything from local folk songs to modern film songs and old devotional ones, and often improvises lyrics over his own songs to communicate with you and the various people gathered on the ghats. * '''Explore the alleyways ''' - The network of historical lanes and alleys behind Dasaswamedh, Man Mandir, Tripura Bhairavi, and Meer Ghat are not to be missed. In the main alley behind Dasaswamedh Ghat (entrance to the left at the top of the stairs), there are hole in the wall chai and lassi shops, silk merchants, western-style cafes, a small perfumery, a traditional instrument store, and a number of handicraft stalls. Sadly, though, other than the notable exceptions of [[Gangtok]] and [[Shimla]], Indian cities refuse to ban bikes, regardless of how narrow an alley may be, and Varanasi is no exception. So the opportunity to savour the unique atmosphere of an ancient Indian city is somewhat destroyed by having to avoid bikes and listen to the sound of constant honking of horns. Still, despite this drawback, the lanes are a must for any traveller visiting Varanasi. ===Festivals=== * '''Chhath Pooja''' (November) - The four day festival for the sun god, Dala aka Surya. Rituals include holy bathing, fasting and abstaining from drinking water (Vratta), standing in water for long periods of time, and offering prashad (prayer offerings) and aragh (water) to the setting and rising sun. * '''Deepavali''', or '''Diwali''' (October–November) - The five day festival of lights. The special decorations, ceremonies at the temples, and ''aarti'' ceremony at the ghats are spectacular. After Diwali there is a day known as Dev Deepavali. On this day all the ghats have oil lamps lit on the ghat steps which is a very pleasant sight to watch. Use the boat ride if you are not with any local. Avoid walking through the ghat on that day. * '''Maha Shivaratri''' (February) - A Hindu festival celebrating Lord Shiva, who lived in Varanasi according to Hindu mythology. On this day, the streets of Varanasi are filled with pilgrims and parades dedicated to Shiva occur all day. Entrance to temples will require long queue and the temples will be extremely crowded. The day of Shivaratri is also the last day of the Dhrupad Mela, a festival of "Hindustani" (a form of [[Indian classical music]]) that goes on night and day for about 72 hours. ==Learn== ===Yoga classes=== Yoga classes are very popular among visitors to Varanasi. * {{do | name=Siddharth Yoga Centre | alt= | url=http://www.yogasiddharth.com/ | email=yogisiddharthyadavvns@gmail.com | address=Mansarowar Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=below Lotus Lounge Restaurant | phone=+91-92368 30966, +91-96215 13784 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Small-group yoga classes with a view of the Ganges. Taught by Siddharth. }} * {{do | name=Yoga Training Centre | alt= | url=https://www.yogatrainingcentrevaranasi.in/ | email= | address=D.5/15, Shakarkand Lane | lat= | long= | directions=near Meer Ghat | phone=+91 9452247010 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Run by Sunil Jhingan Kumar. Highly recommended. }} ===Ayurveda treatment classes=== Ayurveda treatment is common in Varanasi and you can take classes to learn the techniques: * {{do | name=Punarnava Health | alt= | url=http://www.punarnavahealth.in/ | email=drpramodbhu@gmail.com | address=Raman Nivas Campus, Mahmoorganj | lat= | long= | directions=in front of Radio Station | phone=+91 9453109313 (ask for Dr.Pramod Kumar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Classes and treatments in Ayurvedic food habits, daily routine, massage, Shirodhara, steam bath, leech therapy, and Panchkarma. }} ===Language classes=== * {{listing | name=Hindi Language Center | url=http://hinditeachervaranasi.com/ | email=binitkumar_mishra@rediffmail.com | address=B1\150 L-10 Assi | lat= | long= | directions=near Banaras Hindu University | phone=+91 9452247010 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Classes in Hindi. }} * {{listing | name=Pragati Hindi | alt= | url=http://www.pragatihindi.com | email=pragatihindi@yahoo.co.in | address= | lat= | long= | directions=on the north side of Kedar ghat, follow the signs that say 'Pragati Hindi' | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹500/hour | content=Fun Hindi language lessons. Raju's teaching style makes Hindi very simple to understand. }} ==Buy== Varanasi is famous for its fine '''silk''' - it's on offer everywhere, but shop around and [[haggle]]! ===Markets=== * {{buy | name=Gowdalia Chowk | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gowdalia | lat=25.3103 | long=82.9674 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-02-09 | content=One of the most busy shopping areas in Varanasi. Products that are available here include silk and ''zari'' sarees, ''salwar'' suits, garments, bags and handicrafts. }} * {{buy | name=Shri Khatu Ji wholesale Bazar | alt=Khatu ji | url=http://www.khatujiwholesale.com | email=Shrikhatujeeholsalebazar@gmail.com | address=Near Hotel Costa Rivera, Maldahiya Varanasi | lat=lat=25.32316 | long= | directions=Nearest To Cantt Railway Station | phone=+91 8299247566 | tollfree= | hours=10AM TO 9PM | price= | lastedit=2022-12-26 | content=Banarasi Silk Sarees At Wholesale Rates. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Harmony Books | alt= | url=http://www.harmonybooksonline.com/ | email=harmonythebookshop@gmail.com | address=Assi Ghat B 1/158 | lat= | long= | directions=a two-minute walk from the river front | phone=+91-542-2310218 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A bookshop with a real bookshop feel. The owner is very knowledgeable about his stock. |lastedit=2017-07-16}} * {{buy | name=Kashi Annapoorna Book House | alt= | url=https://eventseeker.com/venue/708978-kashi-annapoorna-book-house-varanasi | email=annapurnabookhouse@rediffmail.com | address=B 1/185 Main Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=above the river front | phone=+91 9453882138 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small bookshop with books on subjects related to India, Hinduism, and Buddhism. |lastedit=2017-07-16}} ===Clothes and handicrafts=== *{{buy | name=Dirty Laundry | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Located on the main road that runs along the length of the ghats. If you walk out to the main road from the small burning ghat go to the right and walk about 1km. If you go to the road from the main ghat head to the left for about 1km. Look for the big purple signage. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A traveller's secondhand shop, Dirty Laundry sells used clothing, electronics, books and other travel essentials. They will take your old goods on exchange. }} *{{buy | name=Loan Arts & Crafts | alt= | url= | email=mloan_in@yahoo.com | address=S-20/52a, Nepali Kothi | lat= | long= | directions=next to Hotel Surya and Varanasi Arts Emporium | phone=+91 9336062161 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12 | price= | content=Silk carpets, hand-made, hand-knotted oriental Persian carpets, silk products, silk pashminas, hand-embroidered and hand-stitched cashmere wool, papier mache and lots of handicrafts. }} * {{buy | name=Mehrotra Factory | alt= | url= | email= | address=K 4-8A, Lal Ghat, Raj Mandir | lat= | long= | directions=near Brahma Ghat, follow the multiple yellow signs | phone=+91 542 2435892 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Pratha | url= | email= | address=Shop No.38, Kashi Anathalaya Building, Maldahiya | lat= | long= | directions=by the Main Anathalaya Building | phone=+91 9451089499 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=noon to 8PM | price= | content= A small shop by the corner, showcasing Hand Block printed cotton kurties, suits and accessories. This store does not offer commissions to guides. }} *{{buy | name=Sri Guru Perfumers | url= | email= | address=D, 32/15, Munshi Ghat, Bengali Tola Lane | lat= | long= | directions=before Spicie Bites; enter Bengali Tola Lane on the way to Dashashwamedh Ghat; turn at the Bank of Baroda ATM; there is another perfume shop on the corner before Sri Guru Perfumers, so beware | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very nice selection of perfumes and natural oils, some of them made by the family of the owner Shankar Roy. Homemade incense is great. }} *{{buy | name=The Bed Silk and Pasmina | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nagwa Road, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=on the right corner of the main street when coming from the ghat | phone=+91 99182 80738 | tollfree= | hours=9AM - 8PM | price= | lastedit=2017-07-16 | content=A small shop with a good selection of hand and machine-woven silk items and pashmina shawls. }} * {{buy | name=Wow India | url= | email= | address=B 1/153, Assi Ghat Road, Ganga Math, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=the big corner shop, follow the tourists | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large collection of handicrafts from all over the country, a good herbal teas, incense and plenty more. Prices are moderate and fixed. }} ==Eat== [[File:Aloo Puri, typical morning snack, Varanasi.jpg|thumbnail|Potatoes and Puri, the Indian fried bread]] ''Banarasi Khana'', or local delicacies, are known for their flavours. Many dishes here are flavoured with asafoetida, ginger, bay leaves, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and/or dried fenugreek leaves. ''Benares Dum Aloo'' is different from the dum aloo cooked elsewhere in India because the potatoes are stuffed with and cooked in gravy that includes jaggery, fennel, and chilli paste. Varanasi is also known for its street food and chaat vendors. ''Aloo chaat'' is very common. ''Varanasi Paan'' is famous all over India. Paan is an assortment of flavours wrapped in a betel leaf. There are two versions: One that includes tobacco, and one that includes only sweet flavours. The exact ingredients depend on how much you offer, which can be as little as ₹10 or as much as ₹300. To eat the sweet version, shove the entire leaf in your mouth at once and chew until you swallow! ''Lassi'' from Pahalwan Lassi at Ravidas Gate in Lanka. Age-old shop for delicacies like Lassi, Malaiyyo and Rabri. ''Rabri Malai Balai'' is a popular dessert in Varanasi that includes milk, sugar, almonds, and pistachio nuts. You can find it served in hole-in-the-wall or sweet shops. There are plenty of food outlets with a very dynamic range in quality. The restaurants closer to the ghats cater more to foreign tourists, with variable success. ===Local delicacies=== * '''Kashi Chat Center''': (near Godowlia Crossing) Good assortment of exotic chats. Try out the Aloo Tikia Chat. * '''Lotus lounge''': (at mansoravor ghat) through the alleys, great food a must for every visitors. *'''Madhur Jalpan''': The best place for laddoos and other famous sweet delicacies is 'Madhur Jalpan', a shop that has been frequented by more than two prime ministers of India! Madhur Jalpan is on Baradev - next to the Kainiya Chitra Mandir. Again, on a small alleyway, but the sweets are to die for. * '''Shiv Lassi Bhandar''': (near the main gate of RamNagar Fort) Lassi with layers of Malai and Rabri. Superb Stuff. ===Budget=== * '''A C Shahi Restaurant''' & '''Kesari Restaurant''' near Dasashwmedh ghat in Godaulia and '''Shahi Restaurant''' near Rathyatra crossing serve very good vegetarian north and south Indian dishes. * '''Cozy Corner Restaurant (CCR)''' Homely, healthy and hygienic is the motto of CCR. They specialise in Indian, South Indian and Chinese and serve fantastic dosas and chole bhature. It's a nice cozy place to hang out and the service is superb. Located just down the street from Assi Ghat. Turn left on Dumrao Bagh (first street when walking from the ghat) and walk about 50 m, just past Open Hand. Phone +91 9369305877. *'''Diamond Hotel''' and '''Jaika Restaurant''' near Vijaya Talkies Crossing in Bhelupur serve very good north Indian dishes. * '''Dosa Cafe''', (''in the main alley behind the ghats, north of the main ghat'') serves delicious South Indian dishes for a good price. * '''Leela Paying Guest House''', (''in the center of the city 1.5 KM from River Ganges'') +91-7080881639. A very nice place to eat ,right in the middle of the city, very close to river Ganges and Golden temple.The food is very nice but it takes a little time but with that beautiful view you would like to spend more time sitting there even without food. * {{eat | name=Ganga View | alt= | url= | email= | address=D 22/16 Chaustti Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=Sita Guest House rooftop | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the myriad guest house rooftop restaurants in Varanasi and not a particularly memorable one at that. Serves Indian continental and western food (non-veg not available). Like most places in the area the rooftop is enclosed in a cage to keep the monkeys out (or is that humans in?) which detracts from the view. }} * '''Karki's Restaurant''' If you're in''' Assi Ghat''' this place is a great oasis with a rooftop restaurant that serves cheap but great quality Nepalese & Italian food among others. Highly recommended are the Nepalese Thali and Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta (only Saturday & Sunday). It's on the main road down to Assi Ghat on the left, look for the green roof as it's upstairs and has a small entrance. Say hi to Karki and his gorgeous daughter who loves to poke faces at guests. * '''Mona Lisa Cafe''', (''just south and opposite Shiva Cafe''). Another good and popular cheapie, with a good range of things on offer, notably a thali for ₹20, and some Japanese and Korean dishes thrown in for good measure. * {{eat | name=Nice cafe | url= | email= | address=Bengali Tola | lat= | long= | directions=near Mona Lisa, on turn off for Vishnu GH | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM - late | price=₹25-55 for meal | content=Great food cooked only by mum and family. Home kitchen. Clean. Friendly and helpful owner. Very reasonable prices, except on festival days when hot chocolate is poured over everyone for a fixed price of ₹1000 per person. Check out the garlic / cheese nan and the pancakes! }} * '''Shiva Cafe and German Bakery''', D 26/4 Narad Ghat, (''near Himalaya Lodge''). In the main little alleyway that runs parallel to the river between Dasaswamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat, this place is deservedly popular. The food takes time, but that's because it's prepared fresh, and you'll be happy you waited when the food arrives. Staffed by enterprising Nepalis this has authentic pastas, sandwiches etc. Healthy food. Favourite among long stay residents. * {{eat | name=Spicy Bites | alt= | url= | email=spicybitesvaranasi@gmail.com | address=D. 32/16A Bangali Tola | lat= | long= | directions=on Bangali Tola, an alleyway off Dashashwamegh Ghat (main Ghat) | phone=+91 9935516530 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Under ₹150 for a breakfast with espresso & drinks | content=One of a number of restaurants along Bangali Tola, this place is great for breakfast as they have a full on espresso machine and serve good food. Free WiFi. }} * '''Suryoday''', (''in the alley behind the ghats, a few minutes walk South of Kedar ghat'') small but delicious menu in a clean little spot by Kedar Ghat. * {{drink | name=Yogik's Cafe | alt=formerly Open Hand Cafe| url=https://www.facebook.com/yogikscafeassi/ | email= | address=Dumraon Bagh Colony, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=walking from ghat, turn left before Hotel Haifa | phone=+91 542 2369 751 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-10PM | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=Warm and inviting interior. Smoothies and fresh juices. Set breakfast, salads, bread rolls, fruit salad. Thali and Indian dishes. Instant coffee only. Severely understaffed - very slow service. Free WIFI. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Brown Bread Bakery | alt= | url= | email= | address=near Meer Ghat | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9838888823 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=A good bakery run by a German baker in Varanasi. Be wary of the Indian run bakery on the opposite side of the road who claims to be charitable but is just fake. Breads and pastries made from organically grown ingredients. Also a nice range of cheeses. The restaurant has a large menu including Continental, Italian, German and Indian classics, has a great rooftop and offers a breakfast buffet from 7AM to noon. Quality is pretty good and a part of the proceeds supports the Learn For Life society which operates a free school for disadvantaged children in Aurangabad, Varanasi. }} * {{eat | name=Dolphin Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=about a two minute walk north of Dashashwamedh Ghat | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Prices for a full meal: ₹200 - 600 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=The food and service are good, not great, but the real reason to come here is for the rooftop overlooking the Ghats and the river. Also has free and fast WiFi. }} * {{eat | name=Filocafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9839066788 | tollfree= | hours= 2-10PM | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=A space to study, read, network, converse, experiment, think. Equipped with free Wi-Fi and electric outlets available to all, Filocafé offers a variety of over 45 types of teas, Italian espresso coffee (yes, coming out from those Italian machines) and its creative varieties, fresh juices and a few munchies. }} * '''Flavours Cafe''', Lanka, (''above axis bank''). Great coffee and desserts. Strong filter coffee and lightly accented lattes with a quiet ambiance make for a needed break from the city. Free wireless is also a plus. * {{eat | name=Madhur Milan Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dashashwamedh Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=A nice place for Indian snacks and meals at cheap prices. Cafe is primarily famous for its fried hot samosas, dosa and kachori sabji. }} * '''Megu Cafe''', Kalika Gali (near Meer Ghat), has excellent vegetarian Japanese food made by a Japanese woman who settled in Varanasi a number of years ago. All dishes are ₹85 or less. Closed on Sundays. [December 2011] Menu prices of all items have increased and expect to pay around ₹100-130 for a vegetarian and around ₹180-200 for non vegetarian main meal. * '''Moti Mahal Delux''' restaurant - in Sigra, 3rd Floor, IP Mall, in the heart of the city. +91 542–2220555. One of the best Indian and mughlai restaurant in the city with a unique fine dining experience. Also provides free delivery of your meal at any location in the city. Also serves authentic Chinese and continental. * '''Zaika''' restaurant - in Shivala, opposite Hotel Broadway. Good Indian / Chinese dishes; try the sweet-corn-pakoras. ====Middle-Eastern food==== Possibly due to a high influx of tourists from Israel, a number of Middle Eastern restaurants have opened in Varanasi, all of which serve very similar food, cater to a predominantly tourist clientèle, and charge a little over ₹100 for a thali. * '''Haifa Cafe''': Assi Ghat, (''in Hotel Haifa''). Most popular for its Middle-Eastern cuisine such as the thali (delicious!), but has a wide range of Indian and continental dishes and is also popular at breakfast. The Jordanian brothers aren't here anymore. Now it is just a regular hotel. The food is awful too with the Jordanians gone. * '''Hayat mediterreian'''': near Assi (new location= behind dumraon bag colony park), managed by middle-easterners from Jordan. Try the labanha (dry yoghurt), or the baba ghanSoush (aubergine / eggplant) with pita. The feta is a tad high in salt. The restaurant has a tent-like lounge atmosphere that gives it a cult presence. Ask for "hello to the queen" and see smiles. Very good quality, pleasant open air magnetosphere. * '''Phulwari / Sami Cafe''': near the Vishwanath Temple crossing, you sit beside a religiously near-defunct but architecturally gorgeous Mahadev temple, and sip on iced teas and nanas. Some locals still consider this a holy site and aren't too happy about the cafe being so close. This temple has been usurped by thugs who sponsor this restaurant. Perhaps avoid on ethical grounds. No other heritage Indian temple has a restaurant in its courtyard. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Hotel Clarks | url= | email= | address=The Mall, Varanasi 221002 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Radisson Hotel | url= | email= | address=The Mall Cantonment, Varanasi 221002 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Varuna | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 542 250-300 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=And '''Chowk''', Taj Ganges Hotel, Nadesar Palace Grounds. - Two restaurants respectively offering Indian and Western cuisine. The Taj is excellent as usual. }} ==Drink== ===Coffee=== Coffee is not as common in Varanasi as it is in the bigger and more cosmopolitan cities, and is often just available as the instant variety, served black or white. Even in those cafes that serve real coffee, it is still hit or miss whether it is of standard taste. All the cafes listed here at least sell the real stuff. * {{drink | name=Aum Cafe | alt= | url= https://www.facebook.com/people/Aum-Cafe-India/100064091581360/| email= | address=B1/201 Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions= Walk up steps next to Pizza Town on river-front. | phone= +91 93353 61122| tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sun: 7AM-4:30PM | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= A crystals-yoga-type cafe. OK coffee. Healthy and tasty meals. Wide range of herbal tea and fresh juice options. Bright interior. Small gift shop. Early opening makes it convenient for breakfasts, though options are limited. }} * {{drink | name=Brown Bread Bakery | alt= | url= | email= | address=25/42 Ganga Mahal | lat= | long= | directions=in the main alley leading from Dashashwamedh Ghat. | phone=+91 9838888823 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= Simple cafe. Excellent pastries, bread, and Indian dishes. Coffee. Good selection of organic cheeses. Multi-grain bread sold by the loaf. }} * {{drink | name=El Cafe 80| alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/ElCafe80/| email= | address=Dumraon Bagh Colony, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions = from the ghat, take the first left; cafe is on the right | phone=+91 9871280230 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-10PM | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=Ok Coffee. Good pizza, pasta, and Indian dishes. Western and Indian breakfasts. Cosy atmosphere. Floor-cushion seating, Table seats. Free Wi-Fi. }} * {{drink | name=Imok | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in the main alley leading from Dashashwamedh Ghat | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=Small corner cafe. Large painting of HH Dalai Lama and Lord Shiva on the wall. Probably the best coffee in the lanes. People-watching balcony. }} * {{drink | name=Mona Lisa Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in the main alley leading from Dashashwamedh Ghat | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=Bright and cool interior. Rooftop seating. Friendly service. Mediocre coffee and pastries. }} * {{drink | name=The Mark Cafe| alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/THE-MARK-CAFE/100072262843999/| email= | address=Dumraon Bagh Colony, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions= from the ghat, take the first left; cafe is on the right | phone=+91 93053 06392 | tollfree= | hours=7:30AM-8:30PM | price= | lastedit= | content=Coffee, pizza, pasta. Backstreet atmosphere. Experienced barista - touted as the best coffee in the area. Food is ok. Reasonable prices. Free Wi-Fi. One of the only cafes in the area to open early and serve breakfast.}} === Tea === While chai shops are found throughout the city, a few are worthy of special note: * {{drink | name=Engineer Chai Wala | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/people/Engineer-chai-wala/100076195039491/ | email= | address=Assi Road, Chauraha, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions= a five minute walk from the ghat, vertically opposite Haifa Hotel; smaller branch near The Mark Cafe in Assi Ghat | phone=+91 85729 73351 | tollfree=| hours=8AM-9:30PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-03-28 | content=Run by a guy with an engineer's degree in solar energy who has a passion for chai. More than ten varieties of tea sold in clay cups. Fast service. Thick and delicious chai. A variety of lassi - plain and flavoured. }} === Alcohol === Alcohol is available at a few restaurants and hotels, such as the Radisson and Taj. There are several wine shops in the old city but they don't offer any sitting arrangement. You can buy whatever you want and bring it to your hotel room. * {{drink | name=Radisson Hotel Varanasi | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-varanasi | email= | address=The Mall, Cantonment | lat=25.338580 | long=82.980771 | directions= | phone=+91 542 250 1515 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-01-10 | content=Alcoholic drinks are available in the bar. }} === Other drinks === '''Bhang''' is a potent, powdered form of marijuana often mixed into "special" lassis, simply called ''bhang lassi''. The drink is especially popular on holidays as Varanasi is a major centre of Shiva worship as it is offered to the lord in form of ''Prashad''. Caution should be taken as it can be quite intoxicating and the effects last hours; tourists have been known to be robbed after consuming bhang. '''Thandai''' is a cool, milk-based drink made with pistachios, almonds and saffron, topped off with a large dollop of ''malai'' (cream). Bhang is often added to thicken the concoction, though it can be made without it. Many Thandai stores are located near the main Godowlia, and most also serve lassi. ==Sleep== [[File:"Guest" house or "Rest" house? (6409597911).jpg|thumb|right|Guesthouse or "rest" house?]] {{Sleeppricerange|upto ₹3,000|₹3,000–6,000|over ₹6,000}} The most interesting area to stay is around the ghats, which are the main attractions for foreigners and are close to the religious attractions. However, this area is extremely noisy and many accommodation choices here are subpar, so do some research before you book. An alternative to staying in Varanasi is to stay near the main railway station (Varanasi Junction). This area has some very nice places and is about 10 minutes away on a tuk-tuk. Another alternative is the much quieter [[Sarnath]], 10 km from Varanasi, but it takes more than 75 minutes each way to reach Varanasi by tuk-tuk (₹200). Some budget accommodations advertise free morning and evening boat rides along the river. However, the boat will take you up the river and then let the passengers know that for the return trip, there is a fee of ₹60 per person. Those who do not want to pay can get out of the boat and walk back. Varanasi, particularly during summer, is prone to many hours of power outages a day. It is best to double check that your fan or air-con is run from a backup generator, or you may not have it for much of the day. ===Budget=== Cheaper hotels and hostels can be found around the "Assi ghat" and train station areas, check hot water and wifi for yourself. ====Hostels==== * {{sleep | name=Ganges Nirvana Free Hostel | alt=Ganges Nirvana Community & Homestay | url= | email= | address=Shashwat Shandilya House, Plot no. 175, Lane no.2, Shree Ram Nagar Colony | lat=25.2949279 | long=82.9727667 | directions=Near Manduadih Railway Station | phone=+91 9999230102, +91 9235135611, +91 5422360331 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms range from free to ₹500 (double room) per day | lastedit=2019-08-28 | content=The Ganges Nirvana Free Hostel a small hostel. It is very simple and work is underway to make it more homely. For example by painting the walls with graffiti. If you want to help out with any small thing, you are welcome to stay for free. You will stay with people from couchsurfing, workaway and other places, and the owner often arranges small free trips (just share the expenses for petrol) around and outside of the city. Great rooftop terrace in a noise-free area of Varanasi. }} *{{sleep | name=International Travellers' Hostel | alt=ITH Varanasi | url=http://www.itravellershostel.com | email=hello@itravellershostel.com | address=C-32/4, Vidyapeeth Road | lat= | long= | directions=5-min walk from Varanasi Junction station, opposite Gate #2 of Vidyapeeth University | phone=+91-542-2220058 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11:00 | price=Dorm beds: ₹499 / ₹599; Tent: ₹999; Private rooms: ₹1,599 / ₹2,249 / ₹2,599 | lastedit=2019-08-27 | content=A hostel run out of an ancestral family house. The owner lives in Germany and his staff manage the hostel. There are mixed and female dormitories available with 4-5 beds each. There is a cottage-style superior room with en-suite bathroom for the ones with a slightly higher budget, and a tent for the ones on extremely tight budget. Breakfast inclusive prices can be booked online. The rooms are cosy and silent with comfortable beds. The hostel also features a bistro that serves delicious vegetarian and vegan meals. Their menu also includes authentic Italian coffee. There are several pleasant common areas, including a garden and a first-floor terrace. It's a great place to be away from the chaos of Varanasi. Very good to socialise, and for celebrating Indian festivals, especially Holi. Amenities include fast Wi-Fi, TV, Bluetooth speakers, DVDs, books, card & board games, PC, lockers, washing machine, hair dryers, communal kitchen and purified drinking water. Free vegan toiletries' kit is provided with private rooms and vegan soap bar with other rooms. They also have dual power back-up (battery inverter and power generator), which can be very helpful during power outages in the scorching summers. }} * {{sleep | name=Ram Bhawan / Kautilya Society Residence | alt=कौटिल्य संघ | url=http://www.kautilyasociety.com/ | email=info@kautilyasociety.com | address=D-20/21 Munshi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=on the banks of the River Ganga | phone=+91 542-2452179, +91 542-2455139 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Dorm bed: ₹400; Single: ₹1,000; Double: ₹1,700 | checkin= | checkout= | content=This is the study centre of an NGO that supports responsible development through dialogue that also offers rooms for students and scholars. The residence is similar to an Indian home with simple comforts and colonial teak furniture. In accordance with Indian law, all guests must become members of the Society and pay membership dues of ₹300. These donations cover half board (₹200 per day for additional guests sharing the same room). In low season rates are approximately 20% lower. Long term guests can get discounts. }} * {{sleep | name=Stops Art Hostel | url=http://www.stopshostels.com/ | email= | address=B 20/47, A-2, Vijayanagaram Colony, Bhelupur | lat= | long= | directions=1.1km east of Hanuman Ghat, near the water tower. In an alleyway behind the Dolphin Hotel | phone=+91 9871360382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Tent on roof: ₹350; Dorm bed: ₹450-650; Double: ₹1900 | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | content=Bright, airy, super modern hostel. Location in an alleyway makes it quieter. In a large, 3-floor house. Affordable organised activities all day including walking tours (₹100+transport), boat trips, cooking classes (₹200), yoga/mediation classes, movie nights, etc...The hostel is run by a very professional young Indian couple with superb English and a very keen understanding of what a hostel should be with full recommendations for eating, drinking, tourism etc. It has air-con, 24 hour security and a very happy relaxed vibe, especially out on the shaded balconies on the upper floor, complete with benches and sofas, great for meeting others. Highly recommended. }} * {{sleep | name=Zostel Varanasi | url= | email=rajapayinglodge@gmail.com | address=D-54/16-D, Jaddumandi, Aurangabad Luxa Road| lat= | long= | directions=near Mritunjai Mahadev Temple | phone=+91 964 800 0010 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Dorm bed: ₹390; Double: ₹990 | checkin= | checkout=10AM | content=A friendly hostel 20 minutes walk to the main ghat. Very noisy location, but a great place to meet people. }} ====Guesthouses==== * {{sleep | name=Bhadrakali Guest House | url=https://www.facebook.com/BhadraKaliGuestHouse/timeline | email=Bhadrakaliassociation@gmail.com | address=Along the river, just off the main ghat | lat= | long= | directions=Just off the main ghat | phone=+91 542 245 4104 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=The guesthouse is a colourful, family-owned, music-oriented house with panoramic views of the city and of the River Ganga. A couple of the rooms in this cozy 7-room guesthouse also have balconies and river views. Highly recommended. }} * {{sleep | name=Ganga Fuji Home | alt= | url= | email= | address=D7/21, Sakarkand Gali | lat= | long= | directions=between Man Mandeer Ghat and Dasaswamedh Ghat | phone=+91 542 239 7333 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double: ₹840 (without air-con), ₹1,300 (with air-con) | content=Some rooms have shared bathroom; more expensive rooms have air-con and TV. All rooms are clean, with clean sheets and towel. The rooftop restaurant offers evening concerts every night. }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Lodge | alt= | url= | email=goldenvaranasi@gmail.com | address=D. 8/35, Kalika Gali, Godowlia | lat= | long= | directions=Near Manikarnika Ghat | phone=+91 99355 12368 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price=Single w/shared bath: ₹350; Double w/shared bath: ₹400; double that for air-con, add ₹150 for attached bath. 20% discount in low season | content=Tucked away in the alleyways, friendly staff. Restaurant on site. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel River View | alt= | url=https://hotelriverviewvaranasi.blogspot.com/ | email= | address=K-20/133,134 Rajmandir Brahma Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=walk north from Dasaswamedh Ghat for about 15 minutes, and follow the numerous blue-and-white painted signs | phone=+91 9455578071 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$10-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Kedar Guest House |alt=| url=http://kedarguesthouse.com/ | email= | address=B-1/148-A-2-KH, Lodging Street, Dumraon Colony | lat= | long= | directions=Just west of Ravidas Ghat, along the Assi River | phone=+91 542 236 8853 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Single: ₹350 (shared bathroom outside), ₹850 (bathroom attached); double: ₹1250. Breakfast included. | checkin= | checkout= |lastedit=2019-03-14| content=Highly recommended. Amazing views. The owner is very knowledgeable and will give you maps and explain Varanasi. }} *{{sleep | name=Maa Vaishno Guest House | alt=माँ वैशो गेस्ट हाउस | url= | email=vermadinesh81@gmail.com | address=B5/188 Shivala Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=Shivala Ghat, just off Hanuman Ghat | phone=+91 938 917 8569 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹200-250 | checkin=24 hr | checkout=noon | content=One of the cheapest decent guesthouses in the area. Family run guesthouse. 10 clean rooms, all with attached bathroom with running hot and cold shower and view of the Ganga. Roof top restaurant, sunrise & sun set from roof & room, Free Wi-Fi, laundry service. }} * {{sleep | name=Marigold P. Guest House | alt= | url= | email=marigoldhouse@hotmail.com | address=D20/10-D Munshi Ghat, Dashashwmedh Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=off the main ghat | phone=+91 955 981 1240 | tollfree= | checkin=13:00 | checkout=noon | price=From ₹700 | content=Rooftop view of the Ganges. Highly recommended. }} * {{sleep | name=Mishra Guest House | url=http://www.mishraguesthouse.com/ | email= | address=Ck 8/178 Garwasi tolla Gaumath | lat= | long= | directions=Near Manikarnika Ghat | phone=+91 542 240 1143 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Single: ₹200; Double (non-AC): ₹300-400; Double (with air-con): 600-950 | checkin= | checkout= | content=The rooftop restaurant offers free evening concerts every night. }} *{{sleep | name=Monu Family Paying Guest House | url=http://www.monuguesthouse.com/ | email=monufamilyguesthouse@gmail.com | address=D8/4 Kalika Gali | lat= | long= | directions=Near Golden Temple | phone=+91 542 240 0908 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Single: ₹500; Double: ₹900 (plus ₹500 for air-con) | checkin=13:00 | checkout=11:00 | content=Music, cookery and language courses are available. }} * {{sleep | name=Radiant YMCA Tourist Hostel | alt=वायएमसीए हॉस्टल | url= | email= | address=Mahmoorganj Road, Sampoornanand Nagar Colony | lat= | long= | directions=3 km east of the main ghat | phone=+91 542-2224951, +91 542 2223831 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹765 | content=Opened in 1998. Restaurant with large menu. No dormitories, despite being called a hostel. }} * {{sleep | name=Sahi Riverview Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=B1/158 A2, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=on Assi Ghat, next to Harmony Book Shop | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=11:00 | price=₹1,200-₹2,000 for a double room. |lastedit=2019-08-27| content=Very clean and quiet. Great river views. Free Wi-Fi. Recommended. }} * {{sleep | name=Shiva Kashi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=D22/4 Chausatti Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=at Raja Ghat | phone=+91 923 551 2294 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price=₹500-2,000 | content=Very clean, well-decorated, quiet guest house. Pleasant and helpful staff. Rooms have windows, are light and airy. Some have balconies. Highly recommended. }} * {{sleep | name=Sita Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.sitaguesthouse.in/ | email=sitaguesthouse@yahoo.com | address=Chausatti Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=on the banks of the Ganges, next to the main ghat | phone=+91 542 2450061, +91 542 3251088 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (with air-con): ₹1,500-3,000 | content=Rooms are reasonably clean, somewhat small and most have a view over the river. Supposedly hot water in every room, the hotel also has a generator for the many power cuts in Varanasi but this often doesn't cover the air-con. Rooftop restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Tiwari Guest Lodge | url= | email= | address=B-1/243-A, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=Assi Crossing, across the street from Hotel Haifa | phone=+91 2315129 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Double: ₹500 | checkin= | checkout=negotiable | content=Run by a Brahmin and has a small temple on the site. Very relaxed and well maintained by local standards but do not expect staff to be present all the time. For check-in, the owner can usually be found sitting in the aryuvedic massage cubicle late afternoons. Bring your sheets and towel. Door is locked from midnight to 06:00. }} * {{sleep | name=Vishnu Rest House | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Vishnu-rest-house/215367985223577 | email= | address=Pandey Ghat | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 993 643 8706 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A hotel spanned over a 200-year-old Vishnu temple. A very clean and friendly guest house over looking the river, some rooms with views. You will often find classical music programs and puja held during morning and evening time. The rooms are with power backup and hot water. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Diamond Hotel | url=http://www.diamondhotel.co.in/ | email=diamotel@diamondhotel.co.in | address=Durgakund Road, Bhelupur | lat= | long= | directions=near IP Vijaya Mall, less than 1km from the ghats | phone= +91 542 2276696 | tollfree= | fax=+91 542 2276703 | hours= | price=Single: ₹2,500-3,750; Double: ₹3,000-5,500 | checkin= | checkout= noon | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Gautam Hotel | url=http://www.gautamhotelvns.com/ | email= | address=C-26/35D, Lahurabir, Ramkatora Crossing | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 94530 37806 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$16-25 | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | content=A budget 3-star hotel. Not walkable to the ghats. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel New Temple's Town | url= | email=reservation.newtemplestown@gmail.com | address=53, Patel Nagar, Cantonment | lat= | long= | directions=just north of Varanasi Junction Railway Station | phone=+91 542-2507733, +91 542-2507735 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$43 | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Ganga Kaveri | alt= | url=https://www.hotelgangakaveri.com/ | email=hotelgangakaveri@gmail.com | address=103/1, Atal Nagar Colony, Mavaiya, Sarnath | lat=25.365739 | long=83.022791 | directions=near Ganga Ghat | phone=+91 9919106495 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹ 1850 | lastedit=2024-07-29 | content=}} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=A Palace on the River, Rashmi Guest House | url=https://www.facebook.com/FaizanRGH/ | email= | address=D, 16/28-A | lat=25.308052 | long=83.010997 | directions=on Dasaswamedh Ghat | phone=+91 542 240 2778 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Great views and location. }} * {{Sleep|name=Brijrama Palace|alt=|address= Darbhanga Ghat|directions=|phone=+91 70840 07007|email=|url=https://www.heritagehotelsofindia.com/uttar-pradesh/brijrama-palace.html|checkin=|checkout=|lat=|long=|lastedit=|content=A luxury boutique hotel. One of the oldest buildings on the ghats. Views over the Ganga. Beautiful heritage-style rooms. Restaurants specializing in Indian cuisine|tollfree=|fax=}} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Surya | url=http://www.hotelsuryavns.com | email= | address=S. 20/51 A-5 The Mall Road Nepali Kothi | lat=25.339058 | long=82.979819 | directions= | phone=+91 542 2508466 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Hotel Varanasi | url=http://www.radisson.com/varanasi-hotel-up-221002/indvaran | email= | address=The Mall, Cantonment | lat=25.338580 | long=82.980771 | directions= | phone=+91 542 250 1515 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=From ₹3,200 in the low season, ₹5,500 in the high season | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ramada Plaza JHV | url=http://www.ramadajhvvns.com | email= | address=The Mall Cantonment | lat=25.335729 | long=82.977774 | directions= | phone=+91 542 2510000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Ganges | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-ganges/ | email=tajganges.varanasi@tajhotels.com | address=Nadesar Palace Grounds | directions= | phone=+91 542-666 0001 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From ₹5,000 in the low season, ₹6,500 in the high season | content=A five-star hotel owned by the Taj Group. 130 rooms set on 40 acres of gardens. The building is in the shape of a Hindu swastika. Pets are not allowed. | wikidata=Q111402389 }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Nadesar Palace | url=https://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj-nadesar-palace-varanasi/ | email= | address=Nadesar Palace Grounds | directions= | phone=+91 542 6660002-06 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=From ₹20,000 in the low season, ₹29,000 in the high season | checkin= | checkout= | content=A five-star hotel owned by the Taj Group. The building of the hotel used to be the residence of Mr Davis, the Magistrate of Benares, in January 1799. The same palace was later occupied by Maharaja Prabhu Narain Singh during his rule between 1889–1931. | wikidata=Q111402390 }} ==Stay safe== Violent crime is rare, but still do be careful in the lanes after dark. ===Power outages=== Carry a light or phone; power outages are now rare, but due to sleeping cows and broken paving stones, the alleys are hard enough to navigate in daylight, let alone in pitch dark. ===Stray dogs=== Though generally well behaved, packs of stray dogs can become aggressive at night ===Rickshaw and taxi scams=== Rickshaw and taxi scams are common in Varanasi, and the driver will inevitably tell you that the hotel that you wish to go to has burned down, is flooded, or closed. Don't believe him. Drivers receive commission from hotels for bringing in new guests, and this is one way to trick newcomers to going to these places. Don't get annoyed, but see the exchange as playful banter and part of the Varanasi experience. However, if the driver continuously refuses to follow your instructions, threaten to get out of the rickshaw. If after all this you still end up to a different place, just refuse to pay until you arrive at your hotel. The same procedure will need to be followed when sight seeing, as drivers will inevitably try to take you to handicraft stores, from which they receive commission. If calling for a pickup from a more respectable hostel, be wary that other taxi drivers may listen in to your phone conversation then tell another taxi driver who will pick you up pretending to be your hostel, then take you to a commission charging hostel. ===Cremation ghat scams=== As you approach Manikarnika Ghat, you will be approached by touts posing as cremators or volunteers in a local hospice. These people will explain the cremation process and even lead you to a good viewpoint. They will then take advantage of your emotions by asking you to pay for some wood to burn the body of someone who can't afford it. They will usually insist on receiving ₹500; if you offer less, it will initially be declined. This is a scam. Either tell him you have no money or that you don't feel comfortable donating. === Air pollution === Varanasi is one of the most polluted cities in the world. Many websites show air quality readings taken in the early morning, when pollution is at its lowest. Hourly air quality data is available [https://aqicn.org/city/india/varanasi/ardhali-bazar/ here]. Keep an eye on air quality data and consider wearing a (certified) mask, especially if you are spending an extended period of time in the city. ==Respect== [[File:India - Varanasi priest praying - 0970.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Priest praying to a hairless monkey in the Hanuman Temple]] ===Cremation ghats=== There is, rather understandably, some resentment at tourists tresspasing up to the cremation ghats for raucous sightseeing at the funeral ceremonies of loved ones. Behave respectfully and '''''do not''''' '''take photographs''' of cremations, even from the river. You can take photographs if it is from a distance; most do not mind. There are touts who for a fee will "stop minding". Note that if it is the family that objects then you have to respect it but not if local touts object in the interest of extracting money. Offer the money and if they seem ready to accept, withdraw it and photograph. Call the police if necessary. ===Temples=== Since this city is full of temples you will have to take off your shoes or sandals at every point, so wear flip-flops which are easy to take off. ==Connect== BSNL, Jio, Vi and Airtel are the most popular '''cell phone''' services in the region. If you bring your GSM cellphone from home, you can buy a SIM card and call within India and abroad. You will need your passport and a passport photo to buy a SIM card. '''Wi-Fi''' is available at just about every hotel or restaurant that caters to foreign tourists. '''Internet Cafes''' are common, especially in the lanes between Dasaswamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat. Usually, the shopkeepers will record your passport information before giving you access to the Wi-Fi. Calling abroad is cheap from [http://www.iwayindia.com/ Iway]{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} branches. ==Go next== * [[Agra]] - the next point on the tourist "Golden Triangle". Buses and trains, including overnight trains, leave several times a day. * [[Bodh Gaya]] - the place where Lord Buddha gained enlightenment, and the most sacred place to Buddhists - 6 to 7 hours by bus * [[Delhi]] - The capital can be reached via a 13-hour train journey. * [[Gaya]] - One of the most sacred places to do Pind Dan (funeral offerings for the benefit of the soul of the deceased). A 4+ hour drive from Varanasi. * [[Jaunpur]] - The district just northwest of Varanasi. Primarily a rural area. * [[Khajuraho]] - South of Varanasi. A number of 1,000-year-old Hindu and Jain temples. A little remote, but worth the effort to get there. * [[Lucknow]] - The capital of Uttar Pradesh. Known for its refined cuisine. A convenient place to break a journey to Delhi or [[Rishikesh]]. * [[Chunar]] - Located 55 km away Chunar is known for its gigantic fort overlooking the Ganges. The town is also known for Mughal era tomb and dargha along with a British era Christian cemetery. * [[Prayagraj]] (Allahabad) - Another spiritual city along the Ganges, Prayagraj can be reached via a 3-hour bus journey or by using the train. * [[Sarnath]] - The place where Buddha gave his first teaching after his enlightenment, and one of the four main pilgrimage sites for Buddhists. 10 km from Varanasi (ghat area) - 1 hour by auto. Rates from Assi Ghat: Auto - ₹400 one way - ₹700 return, including an hour waiting time. Taxi - over ₹1,500 for a return journey, including one hour waiting time. (updated March 2023) {{usablecity}} {{geo|25.282|82.9563}} {{IsPartOf|Purvanchal}} hasj0xido9yhh4vr18pygxuxxeowdgq 5288862 5288861 2026-06-06T13:46:59Z Globetrotter30 2363356 /* By rickshaw */ addded 5288862 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Varanasi banner.jpg|unesco_cc=yes<!-- City of Music -->}} '''Varanasi''' ([[Hindi phrasebook|Hindi]]: वाराणसी ''Vārāṇasī''), once known as '''Benares''' or '''Banaras''' and '''Kashi''', is a city at the banks of the Ganges River in [[Uttar Pradesh]], [[India]]. Being the most sacred city in [[Hinduism]] and Jainism, and important in the history of [[Buddhism]], Varanasi is India's most important pilgrimage destination. It was home to 1.2 million people as of 2011. ==Understand== [[File:India - Varanasi sun greet - 0270.jpg|thumb|300px|Hindu priest saluting the sun in the Ganges]] {{infobox|Mark Twain|Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together}} Varanasi (vah-rah-nnuh-see) is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with settlements dating back to the 11th century BCE. Many Hindus believe that dying in Varanasi brings salvation (variously termed as ''moksha'', ''mukti'' or ''nirvāṇa'') and so they make the trip to the city when they realise that they are close to death. For some, the culture shock of the burning corpses in plain view can be a bit overwhelming. However, the scene of pilgrims doing their devotions in the River Ganga at sunrise set against the backdrop of the centuries-old temples is probably one of the most impressive sights in the world. ===Climate=== {{climate chart |Varanasi |8.9 |22.2 |14.2 |12.2 |26.9 |19.3 |16.5 |33.3 |9.4 |21.9 |39.3 |10.3 |25.7 |40.7 |16.7 |27.5 |38.9 |108.8 |26.5 |34.3 |293.7 |26.1 |33.3 |259.3 |25.2 |33.4 |206.9 |21.0 |33.1 |30.6 |14.8 |29.7 |4.8 |10.2 |24.4 |2.7 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:Varanasi]] |description= }} The city can be scorchingly hot in the summer months so instead, if possible, time your visit between October and March, and bring something warm to wear for chilly days and nights. ===Tourist information === * [https://varanasi.nic.in/tourism/ Varanasi tourism information] ==Get in== {{mapframe|25.300|82.999|zoom=12}} Varanasi is well connected by plane, train, and bus. Varanasi is mostly on the west bank of the Ganges. The {{marker|type=go|name=Malviya Bridge|wikidata=Q6745129}} on the north and {{marker|type=go|name=Ramnagar Bridge|lat=25.271342|long=83.019995}} on the south connect the city to the eastern parts of India. ===By plane=== *{{go | name=Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport | alt={{IATA|VNS}} | url=https://www.aai.aero/en/airports/varanasi | email= | address=Babatpur | lat=25.452222 | long=82.859444 | directions={{km|25}} NW of the city centre. A taxi to/from the airport takes an hour and costs ₹750, while a tuk-tuk/auto-rickshaw can take twice as long and costs ₹500. Allow extra time due to traffic. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3276974 | lastedit=2023-05-01 | content=[http://www.airindia.com/ Air India], [http://www.jetkonnect.co.in/ JetKonnect], [http://www.spicejet.com/ SpiceJet], and [http://www.goindigo.in/ IndiGo] all operate regular flights to [[Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Kolkata]], [[Bengaluru]], [[Hyderabad]], [[Khajuraho]] and [[Visakhapatnam]]. There are flights to [[Sharjah]] on Air India Express, to [[Kathmandu]] on Buddha Air and to [[Bangkok]] on Thai Airways. }} ===By train=== {{see also|Rail travel in India}} There are multiple daily services to cities including [[Delhi]] (13 hours), [[Agra]] (13 hours), [[Lucknow]] (7 hours), Mumbai (25-27 hours), [[Kolkata]] (12-14 hours) and [[Siliguri]] (14-16 hours). Varanasi is served by three major railway stations: * {{go | name=Varanasi Junction | alt=station code: BSB | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.326486 | long=82.985811 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Varanasi Junction railway station | image=India - Varanasi - 039 - coming and going and waiting at the train station (2146294009).jpg | wikidata=Q3544938 | content=The trip between the train station and the Ganges riverfront costs ₹100 in an auto-rickshaw. Also called "Cantt" / Varanasi Cantt station for being situated near cantonment. }} * {{go | name=Banaras | alt=station code: BSBS | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.300001 | long=82.972079 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6748220 | lastedit=2023-05-01 | content=The trip between the train station and the Ganges riverfront costs ₹100 in an auto-rickshaw. }} * {{listing | type = go | name = Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction | alt = Mughalsarai Junction, station code: DDU | url = | email = | address = | lat = 25.2767 | long = 83.1173 | directions = | phone = | tollfree = | fax = | hours = | price = | wikipedia = Mughalsarai Junction railway station | image = Mughalsarai Station 2.jpg | wikidata = Q6932166 | lastedit = 2019-08-10 | content = Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction is about 20 km east of the city. The trip between the train station and the Ganges riverfront costs ₹1,000 by taxi and ₹350 by auto. }} Here is a list of useful trains to reach Varanasi: {| class="wikitable sortable" border=1 |- !Train Number !Train Name !You may board at !You may alight at |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 22436] |Vande Bharat Express |[[New Delhi]] |Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12424] |Rajdhani Express |[[New Delhi]] |Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12436] |Rajdhani Express |[[New Delhi]], [[Lucknow]] |Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12560] |Shivganga Express |[[New Delhi]] |Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12165] |Lokmanya Tilak (T) - Varanasi Express |Lokmanya Tilak Terminus ([[Mumbai]]) |Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12336] |Lokmanya Tilak (T) - Bhagalpur Express |Lokmanya Tilak Terminus ([[Mumbai]]) |Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12333] |Vibhuti Express |[[Howrah]] |Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction, Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12307] |Howrah-Jodhpur Express |[[Howrah]] |Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12669] |Ganga Kaveri Express |[[Chennai]] Central |Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 12295] |Sangamitra Express |KSR [[Bengaluru]] City, [[Chennai]] Central |Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 17091] |Secunderabad-Patna Express |Secunderabad Junction ([[Hyderabad]]) |Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction, Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 14854] |Marudhar Express |[[Jaipur]], [[Agra]] Fort |Varanasi Junction |- |[http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html 14864] |Marudhar Express |[[Jaipur]], [[Agra]] Fort |Varanasi Junction |} ===By bus=== [[File:Morning Aarti of the Ganges, ghats of Varanasi.jpg|thumbnail|Morning prayer]] * {{go | name=Bus station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.328924 | long=82.989972 | directions=E of {{station|Varanasi Junction|city=india|nr}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-30 | content=An auto from the bus station to the Ganges riverfront costs ₹150. }} ====Arriving from Nepal==== Buses are available from major cities in [[Nepal]] to the border city of [[Sunauli]]. From the Sunauli bus station, take a rickshaw (₹200) to the border crossing, get your passport stamped on the Nepali side then walk through the border. After 100 m of walking through no-man's land, you will find the Indian immigration office hidden away on the left-hand side of the road. After going through Indian immigration, walk 300 m and find the bus stop on the right-hand side. From there, take the government bus to [[Gorakhpur]], not the private lines which are far less comfortable and stop everywhere. The bus trip between the border and Gorakhpur takes 4 hours and costs ₹60. To reach Varanasi from Gorakhpur, you can either take a train from Gorakhpur Junction (5-7 trains per day, 5.5-7 hour journey, ₹200-800 cost) or a bus (hourly, at least 8-hour journey, ₹130 cost). Budhha Air has also some packages for devotees visiting Varanasi. The cheapest option is perhaps to take the bus in Kathmandu from the Monkey Temple to Birganj/Raxaul for about ₹700, and take a train from Raxaul to Varanasi- but you risk not making the border by 10PM because of breakdowns and the Raxaul-Varanasi train doesn't run often. ====Arriving from nearby cities==== There are buses run by state government from [[Lucknow]] (8 hours, ₹160), [[Gorakhpur]] (8 hours or more, ₹130), [[Khajuraho]] (12 hours, ₹250), [[Kanpur]] (9 hours - ₹195), [[Faizabad]] (7 hours, ₹105), [[Bodh Gaya]] (7 hours, ₹600) and [[Prayagraj]] (3 hours - ₹107 for AC, ₹60 w/o AC). ==Get around== [[File:India - Varanasi street traffic - 0777.jpg|thumb|Traffic in Varanasi.]] Many streets are too narrow to be reached by cycle-rickshaw, auto-rickshaw, and car and therefore, you may have to walk a bit to reach your destination. ===By foot=== Walking is the only way to see the waterfront and the ghats - but be ready to be hot, sweaty, and lost - locals are usually happy to point you in the right direction. The names of ghats and signs pointing to restaurants and hotels are often painted on the walls in Roman letters. For better orientation, walk into any bookstore and pick up a small guide/map book that will have the list and description of all the ghats. ===By rickshaw=== The chaotic streets of Varanasi are sometimes too much to handle on foot. Therefore, it will often be convenient to travel by cycle rickshaw, E-rickshaw or auto-rickshaw. A short journey of a few kilometres should cost under ₹50, while a longer journey within the city, such as between the ghats and the train station, will cost ₹100. Further journeys, such as to [[Sarnath]] (10 km), cost ₹500 there and back (with a one- to two-hour waiting period) or ₹300 one way by auto-rickshaw. There is a pre-paid auto-rickshaw stand at {{station|Varanasi Junction|city=india|nr}}. ===By car or taxi=== While taxis and cars-for-hire do exist, you can hire them for airport/railway/bus station transfers and for major city tour specially for BHU,Sarnath and Ramnager tour. You Can travel from other cities to varanasi by Car as its well connected by major cities of country. * {{listing | name=Big Cab Varanasi | alt= | url=https://bigcab.in | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-21 | content=Big Cab Varanasi is also present in Varanasi. }} ===By bicycle=== Bicycle rental is available from many vendors. Inquire at your hotel. ==See== [[File:Rajghat Varanasi 5.jpg|thumb|Rajghat, Varanasi]] Varanasi is not a city with distinct tourist destinations; the experience is in watching the spectacle of life and death on the river and meandering through the alleys of the old city. * {{see | name=Jantar Mantar | alt=Man Mandir Observatory | url= | email= | address=Terrace of Man Singh Ghat | lat=25.307721 | long=83.010701 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q21069423 | content=Jantar Mantar literally means a combination of instruments and formulas (jantar = instrument and mantar = formula). It is an observatory consisting of a series of masonry architecture of unique form, each with a specialized function for astronomical measurement. Jai Singh, king of Amber, built 5 such observatories across northern and western India. Apart from Varanasi the other 4 places are [[Jaipur]], [[Delhi]], [[Ujjain]] and [[Mathura]] (one in Mathura no longer exist). The Varanasi Jantar Mantar is much smaller compared to the ones in Delhi and Jaipur. The observatory houses 6 instruments of 5 types (it has 2 Samrat Yantra or sun dial). Apart from the observatory, the Man Mahal houses a Virtual Experiential Museum showing a series of light and sound shows. The shows include one on the mythology of the Ganges and its course. There are models depicting life in Varanasi and including a model of a pan shop. There is an interactive musical gallery. }} * {{see | name=Ramnagar Fort | alt=Ramnagar Palace | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.26977 | long=83.02439 | directions=on the eastern bank of the river | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4492020 | content=The fort of the King of Kashi, built in 1750 in the Mughal style, is now a museum with a collection of ancient weapons and other artefacts. It was built by Raja Balwant Singh of Banaras of red sandstone and has a unique blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture. It has grand courtyards, intricate carvings and beautiful gardens. Inside the palace, there is a costume museum, famous for showcasing the royal collection of costumes and textiles including traditional Varanasi sarees, weapons and many other antiques. }} (entry 200 rupies - updated October 2024) * {{see | name=Rajghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.325978 | long=83.035508 | directions=(north of Malviya Bridge next to Rajghat) | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM - 5PM | price=₹ 200 (same ticket for Lal Khan Tomb and Rajghat) | lastedit=October 2024 | content=This archaeological site was the result of a chance discovery in the 1940s when the Kashi Railway Station was extended. After a couple of excavations, a structure was unearthed dating back to the 2nd century BCE. The archaeological evidence suggested that the place was continuously inhabited since the 8th century BCE. Today it consists of several scattered brick structures rising only to a height of {{ft|3|to|4|abbr=out}}. }} * {{see | name=Rani Laxmibai Janmasthali | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.289875 | long=83.005649 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-10-11 | content=Birthplace of Rani Laxmibai. It has been converted into a small gallery. A statue of Laxmibai riding a galloping horse welcomes visitors to the gallery. The walls behind and on the two sides of the statue are converted into a gallery complete with images and writeups. They depicts the life of Rani Laxmibai. Most of the writings are in Hindi. }} ===Ghats and the Ganges=== {{infobox|Floating away|While the use of ghats for cremation is well known, they are also used to give last rites to those who do ''not'' need cleansing by fire to purify their soul, including young children and pregnant women. Instead, their bodies are wrapped in cloth, weighted with stones and deposited into the Ganges. However, it is fairly common for the ropes to give way, resulting in '''putrefying corpses''' washing up on the east shore across from the city. Steer clear if squeamish.}} [[Image:Ghats in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India (2000) 2.jpg|thumb|Harishchandra Ghat (burning ghat)]] [[File:Matri-rin Temple in Varanasi.jpg|thumb|Ratneshwar Temple, Manikarnika Ghat]] The Ganges is the most sacred river in the world for Hindus, and you will see traditional rituals and bathing occurring at all times of the day. On the Eastern banks, the Ganges is flanked by a 300-m-wide sand belt, beyond which lies a green belt, a protected area reserved for turtle breeding. The western crescent-shaped bank of the River Ganga is flanked by a continuous stretch of 84 '''ghats''', or series of steps leading down to the river, stretching for 6.8 km. These ghats were built by Hindu kings who wanted to die along the Ganges, and they built lofty palaces along the river, most of which are now hotels, to spend their final days. You can walk along the river and see all of the ghats, but the best option for viewing the ghats is to charter a boat and see them from the river. Hindus consider it auspicious to die in Varanasi, so some ghats are known as '''burning ghats''', where over 200 corpses per day are cremated in full view before their ashes are eased into the Ganges. Some of the most popular ghats, from north to south: * {{see | name=Panchganga Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.31502 | long=83.01789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q25238213 | content=the meeting of the five rivers. }} * {{see | name=Manikarnika Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.31087 | long=83.01409 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3630417 | content=The main cremation ghat; a must-see, but remain quiet and avoid taking photographs (scams are plentiful here; see the "Stay Safe" section). There's a {{m|74}} temple on the ghat called Ratneshwar Temple, which is leaning by 9°, more than the Leaning Tower of [[Pisa]]. Its sanctum is generally underwater most of the year, except during the summer. }} * {{see | name=Dashashwamedh Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.30818 | long=83.00993 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3630402 | content=Known as the 'main' ghat, this is the site of the large evening ''aarti'' ceremony. The ceremony starts right after the sunset and lasts for around 45 minutes. }} * {{see | name=Rana Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.30507 | long=83.00924 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The ghat is on the banks of the Ganges which helps people to do religious ceremonies without any difficulty. }} * {{see | name=Kedar Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.29943 | long=83.00760 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Brightly painted in stripes and busy with bathers, very photogenic. }} * {{see | name=Narad Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.30219 | long=83.00781 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The ghat on which bathing with spouse is not advised because of the myth of contention. }} * {{see | name=Harishchandra Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.29810 | long=83.00731 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The cremation place where Raja Harishchandra did the last rituals of his son. }} * {{see |name=Hanuman Ghat |content=It used to be known as Ramesvaram Ghat and is at a holy spot known as Juna Akhara in Varanasi. People believe that the Ghat was constructed by Lord Rama and hence it is dedicated to his favourite disciple, Lord Hanuman. }} * {{see | name=Shivala Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.29647 | long=83.00716 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q55082186 | lastedit=2023-12-17 | content=The ghat was constructed by King Balwant Singh and played an important role during the Middle Ages. It comes under the western part of Varanasi and as the name suggests disciples connected the ghat with Lord Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Tulsi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.29039 | long=83.00645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Site of the large water purification plant. }} * {{see | name=Assi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.28865 | long=83.00676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Assi Ghat | wikidata=Q4808835 | content=A popular place for tourists, long-term students and researchers to stay, with many hotels, restaurants, and internet cafes nearby. The morning aarti, known as ''Subah e Banars'', is held at the Assi Ghat. }} ===Religious buildings=== [[File:Lal Khan Tomb 1.jpg|thumb|Tomb of Lal Khan]] ====Mosques and tombs==== * {{see | name=Lal Khan Tomb | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.326081 | long=83.034692 | directions=north of Malviya Bridge next to Rajghat | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9 Am - 5 PM | price=₹ 200 (same ticket for Lal Khan Tomb and Rajghat) | wikidata=Q66662448 | lastedit=October 2024 | content=Lal Khan was the minister and commander of Balwant Sing (reign: 1740 – 70) the King of Varanasi (then Banaras). His last wish was to be buried in such a place so that he could keep an eye on the gateway of the royal palace. The king kept his last wish by building him a magnificent tomb on the northern edge of Varanasi. The tomb stands at the centre of a Mughal garden, marked with four chhatris on four corners out of which three stand to this day. The tomb stands on an elevated square plinth, which also houses several graves. so that he could keep an eye on the gateway of the royal palace. The tomb is crowned with a single dome flanked with chhatris on four corners. Each side has three arches with the central arches slightly higher than the side ones. The highlight of the tomb is the decorative multi-coloured tile work. Sadly, the colours have faded, robbing the tomb of its elegant look. }} * {{see |name=Alamagir Mosque | url= |lat=25.31526 |long=83.01796 |content=Overlooking Panchganga Ghat, it's a great place for a bird's eye view of the area. }} * {{see | name=Gyanvapi Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.31125 | long=83.01043 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3154 | lastedit=2023-08-23 | content=A rather controversial mosque built during the rule of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. It is believed among the Hindus that the Gyanvapi Mosque is the original site of Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Photography is prohibited. }} ====Temples==== [[File:20220519159L2022071406593520220714082601.jpg|thumb|Kashi Vishwanath Temple]] [[File:New Vishwanath Temple at BHU 2007.jpg|thumb|New Vishwanath Temple, BHU]] Many temples in Varanasi are off-limits for non-Hindus. * {{see |name=Bharat Mata Temple | url= |lat=25.31725 |long=82.98930 |content=The Bharat Mata temple at Varanasi is the only temple dedicated to Mother India. It is located in the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth campus. The Bharat Mata temple was built by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupt and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936. The statute of Bharat Mata is built in marble and is a model of undivided India, depicting the mountains, plains and oceans. The most peculiar thing about the Bharat Mata Temple is that instead of the customary gods and goddesses, it houses a relief map of India, carved out of marble. }} * {{see |name=Durga Temple | url= |lat=25.28219 |long=83.04015 |content=Built in the 18th century, the Durga temple was made as a tribute to Goddess Durga. It is also one of the well-known temples in Varanasi. }} * {{see |name=Gauri Matha Temple | url= |lat=25.31765 |long=82.97391 |content=The devi at this temple is supposed to be the sister of the lord Kashi Vishwanath. It is a tradition to visit her just before you leave Kashi. You buy sea shells at this place and offer them to God saying that the virtues of donating the shells go to her while you keep the virtues of having visited the holy shrines in Kashi and bathing in the Ganges. The trip to Kashi is expected to yield results only after completing this custom. }} * {{see |name=Kaal Bhairav Temple | url= |lat=25.31765 |long=82.97391 |content=It is the temple for '''Kaal Bhairav''' - a dreadful form of Lord Shiva symbolising death. It is a tradition to buy black threads (costs about ₹15 per 50 threads as of Sep 2009), keep it in the shrine and then wear it on the arm, wrist or around the neck as a protection against evil forces. }} * {{see | name=Nepali Hindu Temple | alt=Kathwala Temple | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.31765 | long=82.97391 | directions=near Lalita Ghat | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24912881 | content=This small, golden temple was built by the 19th-century exiled king of Nepal, Rana Bahadur Shah. It is shaped in the typical Nepali pagoda architectural style. }} * {{see | name=Kashi Vishwanath Temple | alt=The Golden Temple | url=http://www.shrikashivishwanath.org/ | email= | address= | lat=25.310775 | long=83.010614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3675 | lastedit=2023-12-17 | content=The most famous temple in the city, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shaivism. The temple was destroyed multiple times by Mughal invaders and was reconstructed by Hindu kings who followed them. There are four gates to enter the temple. The main gate, called "Ganga Dwar", is accessible from the Manikarnika Ghat. There is a wide corridor leading to the main temple. Security is tight making entrance to the main temple difficult and sometimes completely off-limits to foreigners. Bags, mobile phones or pens are not allowed inside the main temple, although they are allowed within the corridor. You have to deposit them at the "mobile lockers" within the corridor area. If you enter the temple from other three gates, you have to deposit the prohibited items at the nearby shops. }} * {{see |name=Tulsi Manas Temple | url= |lat=25.28577 |long=82.99652 |content=Located near the very popular Durga temple, this marvellous temple is dedicated to lord Rama. Tulsi Manas temple was established during 1964 in the form of white marble structure. }} * {{see | name=Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple | alt=Sankatmochan Mandir| url=http://www.varanasi.org.in/sankat-mochan-temple | email= | address=27, Durgakund Rd, Jawahar Nagar Colony, Bhelupur | lat=25.2886 | long=82.9993 | directions= | phone=+91 99354 67417 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=sankatmochan Mandir, Varanasi | image=Sankat Mochan temple entrance, Varanasi - IRCTC 2017 (1).jpg | wikidata=Q19891383 | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Sankat Mochan Temple is dedicated to the Lord Hanuman. This temple is also called as the Monkey temple because of the presence of lot of monkeys inside the premises. It is one of the holy temples of the Lord Hanuman and the main location for Hindus for their many religious as well as cultural festivals. It is located in the southern part of Varanasi, on the way to the Durga Mandir and New Vishwanath temple BHU. The meaning of the Sankat Mochan is relief from all the problems (Sankat means problem and Mochan means relief giver). Sankat Mochan Temple was constructed by the educationist and freedom fighter Pt. Madan Mohan Malviya (the founder of the BHU) in the early 1900s. The Hanuman Jayanti (birthday of the Lord Hanuman) is celebrated every year by organising a special Shobha Yatra (a parade) from Durga temple (Durga Kund) to the Sankat Mochan Temple. }} ==Do== [[File:India - Varanasi men praying - 0283.jpg|thumb|Men praying between boats in the Ganges]] [[File:India - Varanasi street signs - 1207.jpg|thumb|Varanasi alleyways]] [[File:India - Varanasi street scene cows donkey - 1180.jpg|thumb|Varanasi street scene by the Ganges]] *'''Bathe in the Ganges''' - Over 60,000 people come to the ghats every day to take a dip in the sacred waters of the Ganga, most notably at sunrise. This is a fantastic sight to see. However, due to the municipal sewage drains that discharge raw sewage into the river, along with sunken corpses, there is a risk of infection from numerous diseases such as hepatitis and bacteria such as e-coli. Reports have shown that the Ganges water has a faeca coliform MPN of 88,000 per 100 ml, compared to a desirable faecal coliform MPN of 500 per 100 ml. *'''Walking tours''' are operated by many companies, walking tours are a great way to see some of the harder-to-find sights such as the Flower Market and Ayurvedic Herb Market * '''Boat rides''' - Very popular, especially at sunrise and sunset. Boats can either be rowboats or motorboats. The most popular sunset ride is to start at Dasaswamedh Ghat or one of the many ghats along the river and head up to Manikarnika Ghat to see the cremations, then down to Dasaswamedh just after sunset to watch the evening ''aarti'' ceremony from the boat. Sunrise is another magical time for a ride, when the ghats are filled with Hindus bathing and starting their day - one of the most famous sights in India. You can bargain the price of the boat ride to around ₹50/person per hour. During the boat ride, other boats, usually manned by children, will float up to your boat to sell bowls with flowers and a candle to be offered to the river (₹10) or masala chai (₹10), or various trinkets that are overpriced. It is recommended to avoid polluting the river further by 'offering' non-biodegradable objects to the river. At Nishadraj Ghat, a few minutes walk from Assi Ghat, you can find a boat driver named Bhomi, a local singer renowned for his incredible voice and charming, beautiful songs; during the boat ride he sings anything from local folk songs to modern film songs and old devotional ones, and often improvises lyrics over his own songs to communicate with you and the various people gathered on the ghats. * '''Explore the alleyways ''' - The network of historical lanes and alleys behind Dasaswamedh, Man Mandir, Tripura Bhairavi, and Meer Ghat are not to be missed. In the main alley behind Dasaswamedh Ghat (entrance to the left at the top of the stairs), there are hole in the wall chai and lassi shops, silk merchants, western-style cafes, a small perfumery, a traditional instrument store, and a number of handicraft stalls. Sadly, though, other than the notable exceptions of [[Gangtok]] and [[Shimla]], Indian cities refuse to ban bikes, regardless of how narrow an alley may be, and Varanasi is no exception. So the opportunity to savour the unique atmosphere of an ancient Indian city is somewhat destroyed by having to avoid bikes and listen to the sound of constant honking of horns. Still, despite this drawback, the lanes are a must for any traveller visiting Varanasi. ===Festivals=== * '''Chhath Pooja''' (November) - The four day festival for the sun god, Dala aka Surya. Rituals include holy bathing, fasting and abstaining from drinking water (Vratta), standing in water for long periods of time, and offering prashad (prayer offerings) and aragh (water) to the setting and rising sun. * '''Deepavali''', or '''Diwali''' (October–November) - The five day festival of lights. The special decorations, ceremonies at the temples, and ''aarti'' ceremony at the ghats are spectacular. After Diwali there is a day known as Dev Deepavali. On this day all the ghats have oil lamps lit on the ghat steps which is a very pleasant sight to watch. Use the boat ride if you are not with any local. Avoid walking through the ghat on that day. * '''Maha Shivaratri''' (February) - A Hindu festival celebrating Lord Shiva, who lived in Varanasi according to Hindu mythology. On this day, the streets of Varanasi are filled with pilgrims and parades dedicated to Shiva occur all day. Entrance to temples will require long queue and the temples will be extremely crowded. The day of Shivaratri is also the last day of the Dhrupad Mela, a festival of "Hindustani" (a form of [[Indian classical music]]) that goes on night and day for about 72 hours. ==Learn== ===Yoga classes=== Yoga classes are very popular among visitors to Varanasi. * {{do | name=Siddharth Yoga Centre | alt= | url=http://www.yogasiddharth.com/ | email=yogisiddharthyadavvns@gmail.com | address=Mansarowar Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=below Lotus Lounge Restaurant | phone=+91-92368 30966, +91-96215 13784 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Small-group yoga classes with a view of the Ganges. Taught by Siddharth. }} * {{do | name=Yoga Training Centre | alt= | url=https://www.yogatrainingcentrevaranasi.in/ | email= | address=D.5/15, Shakarkand Lane | lat= | long= | directions=near Meer Ghat | phone=+91 9452247010 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Run by Sunil Jhingan Kumar. Highly recommended. }} ===Ayurveda treatment classes=== Ayurveda treatment is common in Varanasi and you can take classes to learn the techniques: * {{do | name=Punarnava Health | alt= | url=http://www.punarnavahealth.in/ | email=drpramodbhu@gmail.com | address=Raman Nivas Campus, Mahmoorganj | lat= | long= | directions=in front of Radio Station | phone=+91 9453109313 (ask for Dr.Pramod Kumar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Classes and treatments in Ayurvedic food habits, daily routine, massage, Shirodhara, steam bath, leech therapy, and Panchkarma. }} ===Language classes=== * {{listing | name=Hindi Language Center | url=http://hinditeachervaranasi.com/ | email=binitkumar_mishra@rediffmail.com | address=B1\150 L-10 Assi | lat= | long= | directions=near Banaras Hindu University | phone=+91 9452247010 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Classes in Hindi. }} * {{listing | name=Pragati Hindi | alt= | url=http://www.pragatihindi.com | email=pragatihindi@yahoo.co.in | address= | lat= | long= | directions=on the north side of Kedar ghat, follow the signs that say 'Pragati Hindi' | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹500/hour | content=Fun Hindi language lessons. Raju's teaching style makes Hindi very simple to understand. }} ==Buy== Varanasi is famous for its fine '''silk''' - it's on offer everywhere, but shop around and [[haggle]]! ===Markets=== * {{buy | name=Gowdalia Chowk | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gowdalia | lat=25.3103 | long=82.9674 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-02-09 | content=One of the most busy shopping areas in Varanasi. Products that are available here include silk and ''zari'' sarees, ''salwar'' suits, garments, bags and handicrafts. }} * {{buy | name=Shri Khatu Ji wholesale Bazar | alt=Khatu ji | url=http://www.khatujiwholesale.com | email=Shrikhatujeeholsalebazar@gmail.com | address=Near Hotel Costa Rivera, Maldahiya Varanasi | lat=lat=25.32316 | long= | directions=Nearest To Cantt Railway Station | phone=+91 8299247566 | tollfree= | hours=10AM TO 9PM | price= | lastedit=2022-12-26 | content=Banarasi Silk Sarees At Wholesale Rates. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Harmony Books | alt= | url=http://www.harmonybooksonline.com/ | email=harmonythebookshop@gmail.com | address=Assi Ghat B 1/158 | lat= | long= | directions=a two-minute walk from the river front | phone=+91-542-2310218 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A bookshop with a real bookshop feel. The owner is very knowledgeable about his stock. |lastedit=2017-07-16}} * {{buy | name=Kashi Annapoorna Book House | alt= | url=https://eventseeker.com/venue/708978-kashi-annapoorna-book-house-varanasi | email=annapurnabookhouse@rediffmail.com | address=B 1/185 Main Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=above the river front | phone=+91 9453882138 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small bookshop with books on subjects related to India, Hinduism, and Buddhism. |lastedit=2017-07-16}} ===Clothes and handicrafts=== *{{buy | name=Dirty Laundry | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Located on the main road that runs along the length of the ghats. If you walk out to the main road from the small burning ghat go to the right and walk about 1km. If you go to the road from the main ghat head to the left for about 1km. Look for the big purple signage. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A traveller's secondhand shop, Dirty Laundry sells used clothing, electronics, books and other travel essentials. They will take your old goods on exchange. }} *{{buy | name=Loan Arts & Crafts | alt= | url= | email=mloan_in@yahoo.com | address=S-20/52a, Nepali Kothi | lat= | long= | directions=next to Hotel Surya and Varanasi Arts Emporium | phone=+91 9336062161 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12 | price= | content=Silk carpets, hand-made, hand-knotted oriental Persian carpets, silk products, silk pashminas, hand-embroidered and hand-stitched cashmere wool, papier mache and lots of handicrafts. }} * {{buy | name=Mehrotra Factory | alt= | url= | email= | address=K 4-8A, Lal Ghat, Raj Mandir | lat= | long= | directions=near Brahma Ghat, follow the multiple yellow signs | phone=+91 542 2435892 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Pratha | url= | email= | address=Shop No.38, Kashi Anathalaya Building, Maldahiya | lat= | long= | directions=by the Main Anathalaya Building | phone=+91 9451089499 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=noon to 8PM | price= | content= A small shop by the corner, showcasing Hand Block printed cotton kurties, suits and accessories. This store does not offer commissions to guides. }} *{{buy | name=Sri Guru Perfumers | url= | email= | address=D, 32/15, Munshi Ghat, Bengali Tola Lane | lat= | long= | directions=before Spicie Bites; enter Bengali Tola Lane on the way to Dashashwamedh Ghat; turn at the Bank of Baroda ATM; there is another perfume shop on the corner before Sri Guru Perfumers, so beware | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very nice selection of perfumes and natural oils, some of them made by the family of the owner Shankar Roy. Homemade incense is great. }} *{{buy | name=The Bed Silk and Pasmina | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nagwa Road, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=on the right corner of the main street when coming from the ghat | phone=+91 99182 80738 | tollfree= | hours=9AM - 8PM | price= | lastedit=2017-07-16 | content=A small shop with a good selection of hand and machine-woven silk items and pashmina shawls. }} * {{buy | name=Wow India | url= | email= | address=B 1/153, Assi Ghat Road, Ganga Math, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=the big corner shop, follow the tourists | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large collection of handicrafts from all over the country, a good herbal teas, incense and plenty more. Prices are moderate and fixed. }} ==Eat== [[File:Aloo Puri, typical morning snack, Varanasi.jpg|thumbnail|Potatoes and Puri, the Indian fried bread]] ''Banarasi Khana'', or local delicacies, are known for their flavours. Many dishes here are flavoured with asafoetida, ginger, bay leaves, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and/or dried fenugreek leaves. ''Benares Dum Aloo'' is different from the dum aloo cooked elsewhere in India because the potatoes are stuffed with and cooked in gravy that includes jaggery, fennel, and chilli paste. Varanasi is also known for its street food and chaat vendors. ''Aloo chaat'' is very common. ''Varanasi Paan'' is famous all over India. Paan is an assortment of flavours wrapped in a betel leaf. There are two versions: One that includes tobacco, and one that includes only sweet flavours. The exact ingredients depend on how much you offer, which can be as little as ₹10 or as much as ₹300. To eat the sweet version, shove the entire leaf in your mouth at once and chew until you swallow! ''Lassi'' from Pahalwan Lassi at Ravidas Gate in Lanka. Age-old shop for delicacies like Lassi, Malaiyyo and Rabri. ''Rabri Malai Balai'' is a popular dessert in Varanasi that includes milk, sugar, almonds, and pistachio nuts. You can find it served in hole-in-the-wall or sweet shops. There are plenty of food outlets with a very dynamic range in quality. The restaurants closer to the ghats cater more to foreign tourists, with variable success. ===Local delicacies=== * '''Kashi Chat Center''': (near Godowlia Crossing) Good assortment of exotic chats. Try out the Aloo Tikia Chat. * '''Lotus lounge''': (at mansoravor ghat) through the alleys, great food a must for every visitors. *'''Madhur Jalpan''': The best place for laddoos and other famous sweet delicacies is 'Madhur Jalpan', a shop that has been frequented by more than two prime ministers of India! Madhur Jalpan is on Baradev - next to the Kainiya Chitra Mandir. Again, on a small alleyway, but the sweets are to die for. * '''Shiv Lassi Bhandar''': (near the main gate of RamNagar Fort) Lassi with layers of Malai and Rabri. Superb Stuff. ===Budget=== * '''A C Shahi Restaurant''' & '''Kesari Restaurant''' near Dasashwmedh ghat in Godaulia and '''Shahi Restaurant''' near Rathyatra crossing serve very good vegetarian north and south Indian dishes. * '''Cozy Corner Restaurant (CCR)''' Homely, healthy and hygienic is the motto of CCR. They specialise in Indian, South Indian and Chinese and serve fantastic dosas and chole bhature. It's a nice cozy place to hang out and the service is superb. Located just down the street from Assi Ghat. Turn left on Dumrao Bagh (first street when walking from the ghat) and walk about 50 m, just past Open Hand. Phone +91 9369305877. *'''Diamond Hotel''' and '''Jaika Restaurant''' near Vijaya Talkies Crossing in Bhelupur serve very good north Indian dishes. * '''Dosa Cafe''', (''in the main alley behind the ghats, north of the main ghat'') serves delicious South Indian dishes for a good price. * '''Leela Paying Guest House''', (''in the center of the city 1.5 KM from River Ganges'') +91-7080881639. A very nice place to eat ,right in the middle of the city, very close to river Ganges and Golden temple.The food is very nice but it takes a little time but with that beautiful view you would like to spend more time sitting there even without food. * {{eat | name=Ganga View | alt= | url= | email= | address=D 22/16 Chaustti Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=Sita Guest House rooftop | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the myriad guest house rooftop restaurants in Varanasi and not a particularly memorable one at that. Serves Indian continental and western food (non-veg not available). Like most places in the area the rooftop is enclosed in a cage to keep the monkeys out (or is that humans in?) which detracts from the view. }} * '''Karki's Restaurant''' If you're in''' Assi Ghat''' this place is a great oasis with a rooftop restaurant that serves cheap but great quality Nepalese & Italian food among others. Highly recommended are the Nepalese Thali and Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta (only Saturday & Sunday). It's on the main road down to Assi Ghat on the left, look for the green roof as it's upstairs and has a small entrance. Say hi to Karki and his gorgeous daughter who loves to poke faces at guests. * '''Mona Lisa Cafe''', (''just south and opposite Shiva Cafe''). Another good and popular cheapie, with a good range of things on offer, notably a thali for ₹20, and some Japanese and Korean dishes thrown in for good measure. * {{eat | name=Nice cafe | url= | email= | address=Bengali Tola | lat= | long= | directions=near Mona Lisa, on turn off for Vishnu GH | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM - late | price=₹25-55 for meal | content=Great food cooked only by mum and family. Home kitchen. Clean. Friendly and helpful owner. Very reasonable prices, except on festival days when hot chocolate is poured over everyone for a fixed price of ₹1000 per person. Check out the garlic / cheese nan and the pancakes! }} * '''Shiva Cafe and German Bakery''', D 26/4 Narad Ghat, (''near Himalaya Lodge''). In the main little alleyway that runs parallel to the river between Dasaswamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat, this place is deservedly popular. The food takes time, but that's because it's prepared fresh, and you'll be happy you waited when the food arrives. Staffed by enterprising Nepalis this has authentic pastas, sandwiches etc. Healthy food. Favourite among long stay residents. * {{eat | name=Spicy Bites | alt= | url= | email=spicybitesvaranasi@gmail.com | address=D. 32/16A Bangali Tola | lat= | long= | directions=on Bangali Tola, an alleyway off Dashashwamegh Ghat (main Ghat) | phone=+91 9935516530 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Under ₹150 for a breakfast with espresso & drinks | content=One of a number of restaurants along Bangali Tola, this place is great for breakfast as they have a full on espresso machine and serve good food. Free WiFi. }} * '''Suryoday''', (''in the alley behind the ghats, a few minutes walk South of Kedar ghat'') small but delicious menu in a clean little spot by Kedar Ghat. * {{drink | name=Yogik's Cafe | alt=formerly Open Hand Cafe| url=https://www.facebook.com/yogikscafeassi/ | email= | address=Dumraon Bagh Colony, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=walking from ghat, turn left before Hotel Haifa | phone=+91 542 2369 751 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-10PM | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=Warm and inviting interior. Smoothies and fresh juices. Set breakfast, salads, bread rolls, fruit salad. Thali and Indian dishes. Instant coffee only. Severely understaffed - very slow service. Free WIFI. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Brown Bread Bakery | alt= | url= | email= | address=near Meer Ghat | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9838888823 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=A good bakery run by a German baker in Varanasi. Be wary of the Indian run bakery on the opposite side of the road who claims to be charitable but is just fake. Breads and pastries made from organically grown ingredients. Also a nice range of cheeses. The restaurant has a large menu including Continental, Italian, German and Indian classics, has a great rooftop and offers a breakfast buffet from 7AM to noon. Quality is pretty good and a part of the proceeds supports the Learn For Life society which operates a free school for disadvantaged children in Aurangabad, Varanasi. }} * {{eat | name=Dolphin Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=about a two minute walk north of Dashashwamedh Ghat | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Prices for a full meal: ₹200 - 600 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=The food and service are good, not great, but the real reason to come here is for the rooftop overlooking the Ghats and the river. Also has free and fast WiFi. }} * {{eat | name=Filocafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9839066788 | tollfree= | hours= 2-10PM | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=A space to study, read, network, converse, experiment, think. Equipped with free Wi-Fi and electric outlets available to all, Filocafé offers a variety of over 45 types of teas, Italian espresso coffee (yes, coming out from those Italian machines) and its creative varieties, fresh juices and a few munchies. }} * '''Flavours Cafe''', Lanka, (''above axis bank''). Great coffee and desserts. Strong filter coffee and lightly accented lattes with a quiet ambiance make for a needed break from the city. Free wireless is also a plus. * {{eat | name=Madhur Milan Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dashashwamedh Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=A nice place for Indian snacks and meals at cheap prices. Cafe is primarily famous for its fried hot samosas, dosa and kachori sabji. }} * '''Megu Cafe''', Kalika Gali (near Meer Ghat), has excellent vegetarian Japanese food made by a Japanese woman who settled in Varanasi a number of years ago. All dishes are ₹85 or less. Closed on Sundays. [December 2011] Menu prices of all items have increased and expect to pay around ₹100-130 for a vegetarian and around ₹180-200 for non vegetarian main meal. * '''Moti Mahal Delux''' restaurant - in Sigra, 3rd Floor, IP Mall, in the heart of the city. +91 542–2220555. One of the best Indian and mughlai restaurant in the city with a unique fine dining experience. Also provides free delivery of your meal at any location in the city. Also serves authentic Chinese and continental. * '''Zaika''' restaurant - in Shivala, opposite Hotel Broadway. Good Indian / Chinese dishes; try the sweet-corn-pakoras. ====Middle-Eastern food==== Possibly due to a high influx of tourists from Israel, a number of Middle Eastern restaurants have opened in Varanasi, all of which serve very similar food, cater to a predominantly tourist clientèle, and charge a little over ₹100 for a thali. * '''Haifa Cafe''': Assi Ghat, (''in Hotel Haifa''). Most popular for its Middle-Eastern cuisine such as the thali (delicious!), but has a wide range of Indian and continental dishes and is also popular at breakfast. The Jordanian brothers aren't here anymore. Now it is just a regular hotel. The food is awful too with the Jordanians gone. * '''Hayat mediterreian'''': near Assi (new location= behind dumraon bag colony park), managed by middle-easterners from Jordan. Try the labanha (dry yoghurt), or the baba ghanSoush (aubergine / eggplant) with pita. The feta is a tad high in salt. The restaurant has a tent-like lounge atmosphere that gives it a cult presence. Ask for "hello to the queen" and see smiles. Very good quality, pleasant open air magnetosphere. * '''Phulwari / Sami Cafe''': near the Vishwanath Temple crossing, you sit beside a religiously near-defunct but architecturally gorgeous Mahadev temple, and sip on iced teas and nanas. Some locals still consider this a holy site and aren't too happy about the cafe being so close. This temple has been usurped by thugs who sponsor this restaurant. Perhaps avoid on ethical grounds. No other heritage Indian temple has a restaurant in its courtyard. ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Hotel Clarks | url= | email= | address=The Mall, Varanasi 221002 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Radisson Hotel | url= | email= | address=The Mall Cantonment, Varanasi 221002 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Varuna | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 542 250-300 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=And '''Chowk''', Taj Ganges Hotel, Nadesar Palace Grounds. - Two restaurants respectively offering Indian and Western cuisine. The Taj is excellent as usual. }} ==Drink== ===Coffee=== Coffee is not as common in Varanasi as it is in the bigger and more cosmopolitan cities, and is often just available as the instant variety, served black or white. Even in those cafes that serve real coffee, it is still hit or miss whether it is of standard taste. All the cafes listed here at least sell the real stuff. * {{drink | name=Aum Cafe | alt= | url= https://www.facebook.com/people/Aum-Cafe-India/100064091581360/| email= | address=B1/201 Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions= Walk up steps next to Pizza Town on river-front. | phone= +91 93353 61122| tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sun: 7AM-4:30PM | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= A crystals-yoga-type cafe. OK coffee. Healthy and tasty meals. Wide range of herbal tea and fresh juice options. Bright interior. Small gift shop. Early opening makes it convenient for breakfasts, though options are limited. }} * {{drink | name=Brown Bread Bakery | alt= | url= | email= | address=25/42 Ganga Mahal | lat= | long= | directions=in the main alley leading from Dashashwamedh Ghat. | phone=+91 9838888823 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= Simple cafe. Excellent pastries, bread, and Indian dishes. Coffee. Good selection of organic cheeses. Multi-grain bread sold by the loaf. }} * {{drink | name=El Cafe 80| alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/ElCafe80/| email= | address=Dumraon Bagh Colony, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions = from the ghat, take the first left; cafe is on the right | phone=+91 9871280230 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-10PM | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=Ok Coffee. Good pizza, pasta, and Indian dishes. Western and Indian breakfasts. Cosy atmosphere. Floor-cushion seating, Table seats. Free Wi-Fi. }} * {{drink | name=Imok | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in the main alley leading from Dashashwamedh Ghat | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=Small corner cafe. Large painting of HH Dalai Lama and Lord Shiva on the wall. Probably the best coffee in the lanes. People-watching balcony. }} * {{drink | name=Mona Lisa Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in the main alley leading from Dashashwamedh Ghat | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=Bright and cool interior. Rooftop seating. Friendly service. Mediocre coffee and pastries. }} * {{drink | name=The Mark Cafe| alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/THE-MARK-CAFE/100072262843999/| email= | address=Dumraon Bagh Colony, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions= from the ghat, take the first left; cafe is on the right | phone=+91 93053 06392 | tollfree= | hours=7:30AM-8:30PM | price= | lastedit= | content=Coffee, pizza, pasta. Backstreet atmosphere. Experienced barista - touted as the best coffee in the area. Food is ok. Reasonable prices. Free Wi-Fi. One of the only cafes in the area to open early and serve breakfast.}} === Tea === While chai shops are found throughout the city, a few are worthy of special note: * {{drink | name=Engineer Chai Wala | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/people/Engineer-chai-wala/100076195039491/ | email= | address=Assi Road, Chauraha, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions= a five minute walk from the ghat, vertically opposite Haifa Hotel; smaller branch near The Mark Cafe in Assi Ghat | phone=+91 85729 73351 | tollfree=| hours=8AM-9:30PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-03-28 | content=Run by a guy with an engineer's degree in solar energy who has a passion for chai. More than ten varieties of tea sold in clay cups. Fast service. Thick and delicious chai. A variety of lassi - plain and flavoured. }} === Alcohol === Alcohol is available at a few restaurants and hotels, such as the Radisson and Taj. There are several wine shops in the old city but they don't offer any sitting arrangement. You can buy whatever you want and bring it to your hotel room. * {{drink | name=Radisson Hotel Varanasi | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-varanasi | email= | address=The Mall, Cantonment | lat=25.338580 | long=82.980771 | directions= | phone=+91 542 250 1515 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-01-10 | content=Alcoholic drinks are available in the bar. }} === Other drinks === '''Bhang''' is a potent, powdered form of marijuana often mixed into "special" lassis, simply called ''bhang lassi''. The drink is especially popular on holidays as Varanasi is a major centre of Shiva worship as it is offered to the lord in form of ''Prashad''. Caution should be taken as it can be quite intoxicating and the effects last hours; tourists have been known to be robbed after consuming bhang. '''Thandai''' is a cool, milk-based drink made with pistachios, almonds and saffron, topped off with a large dollop of ''malai'' (cream). Bhang is often added to thicken the concoction, though it can be made without it. Many Thandai stores are located near the main Godowlia, and most also serve lassi. ==Sleep== [[File:"Guest" house or "Rest" house? (6409597911).jpg|thumb|right|Guesthouse or "rest" house?]] {{Sleeppricerange|upto ₹3,000|₹3,000–6,000|over ₹6,000}} The most interesting area to stay is around the ghats, which are the main attractions for foreigners and are close to the religious attractions. However, this area is extremely noisy and many accommodation choices here are subpar, so do some research before you book. An alternative to staying in Varanasi is to stay near the main railway station (Varanasi Junction). This area has some very nice places and is about 10 minutes away on a tuk-tuk. Another alternative is the much quieter [[Sarnath]], 10 km from Varanasi, but it takes more than 75 minutes each way to reach Varanasi by tuk-tuk (₹200). Some budget accommodations advertise free morning and evening boat rides along the river. However, the boat will take you up the river and then let the passengers know that for the return trip, there is a fee of ₹60 per person. Those who do not want to pay can get out of the boat and walk back. Varanasi, particularly during summer, is prone to many hours of power outages a day. It is best to double check that your fan or air-con is run from a backup generator, or you may not have it for much of the day. ===Budget=== Cheaper hotels and hostels can be found around the "Assi ghat" and train station areas, check hot water and wifi for yourself. ====Hostels==== * {{sleep | name=Ganges Nirvana Free Hostel | alt=Ganges Nirvana Community & Homestay | url= | email= | address=Shashwat Shandilya House, Plot no. 175, Lane no.2, Shree Ram Nagar Colony | lat=25.2949279 | long=82.9727667 | directions=Near Manduadih Railway Station | phone=+91 9999230102, +91 9235135611, +91 5422360331 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms range from free to ₹500 (double room) per day | lastedit=2019-08-28 | content=The Ganges Nirvana Free Hostel a small hostel. It is very simple and work is underway to make it more homely. For example by painting the walls with graffiti. If you want to help out with any small thing, you are welcome to stay for free. You will stay with people from couchsurfing, workaway and other places, and the owner often arranges small free trips (just share the expenses for petrol) around and outside of the city. Great rooftop terrace in a noise-free area of Varanasi. }} *{{sleep | name=International Travellers' Hostel | alt=ITH Varanasi | url=http://www.itravellershostel.com | email=hello@itravellershostel.com | address=C-32/4, Vidyapeeth Road | lat= | long= | directions=5-min walk from Varanasi Junction station, opposite Gate #2 of Vidyapeeth University | phone=+91-542-2220058 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11:00 | price=Dorm beds: ₹499 / ₹599; Tent: ₹999; Private rooms: ₹1,599 / ₹2,249 / ₹2,599 | lastedit=2019-08-27 | content=A hostel run out of an ancestral family house. The owner lives in Germany and his staff manage the hostel. There are mixed and female dormitories available with 4-5 beds each. There is a cottage-style superior room with en-suite bathroom for the ones with a slightly higher budget, and a tent for the ones on extremely tight budget. Breakfast inclusive prices can be booked online. The rooms are cosy and silent with comfortable beds. The hostel also features a bistro that serves delicious vegetarian and vegan meals. Their menu also includes authentic Italian coffee. There are several pleasant common areas, including a garden and a first-floor terrace. It's a great place to be away from the chaos of Varanasi. Very good to socialise, and for celebrating Indian festivals, especially Holi. Amenities include fast Wi-Fi, TV, Bluetooth speakers, DVDs, books, card & board games, PC, lockers, washing machine, hair dryers, communal kitchen and purified drinking water. Free vegan toiletries' kit is provided with private rooms and vegan soap bar with other rooms. They also have dual power back-up (battery inverter and power generator), which can be very helpful during power outages in the scorching summers. }} * {{sleep | name=Ram Bhawan / Kautilya Society Residence | alt=कौटिल्य संघ | url=http://www.kautilyasociety.com/ | email=info@kautilyasociety.com | address=D-20/21 Munshi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=on the banks of the River Ganga | phone=+91 542-2452179, +91 542-2455139 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Dorm bed: ₹400; Single: ₹1,000; Double: ₹1,700 | checkin= | checkout= | content=This is the study centre of an NGO that supports responsible development through dialogue that also offers rooms for students and scholars. The residence is similar to an Indian home with simple comforts and colonial teak furniture. In accordance with Indian law, all guests must become members of the Society and pay membership dues of ₹300. These donations cover half board (₹200 per day for additional guests sharing the same room). In low season rates are approximately 20% lower. Long term guests can get discounts. }} * {{sleep | name=Stops Art Hostel | url=http://www.stopshostels.com/ | email= | address=B 20/47, A-2, Vijayanagaram Colony, Bhelupur | lat= | long= | directions=1.1km east of Hanuman Ghat, near the water tower. In an alleyway behind the Dolphin Hotel | phone=+91 9871360382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Tent on roof: ₹350; Dorm bed: ₹450-650; Double: ₹1900 | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | content=Bright, airy, super modern hostel. Location in an alleyway makes it quieter. In a large, 3-floor house. Affordable organised activities all day including walking tours (₹100+transport), boat trips, cooking classes (₹200), yoga/mediation classes, movie nights, etc...The hostel is run by a very professional young Indian couple with superb English and a very keen understanding of what a hostel should be with full recommendations for eating, drinking, tourism etc. It has air-con, 24 hour security and a very happy relaxed vibe, especially out on the shaded balconies on the upper floor, complete with benches and sofas, great for meeting others. Highly recommended. }} * {{sleep | name=Zostel Varanasi | url= | email=rajapayinglodge@gmail.com | address=D-54/16-D, Jaddumandi, Aurangabad Luxa Road| lat= | long= | directions=near Mritunjai Mahadev Temple | phone=+91 964 800 0010 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Dorm bed: ₹390; Double: ₹990 | checkin= | checkout=10AM | content=A friendly hostel 20 minutes walk to the main ghat. Very noisy location, but a great place to meet people. }} ====Guesthouses==== * {{sleep | name=Bhadrakali Guest House | url=https://www.facebook.com/BhadraKaliGuestHouse/timeline | email=Bhadrakaliassociation@gmail.com | address=Along the river, just off the main ghat | lat= | long= | directions=Just off the main ghat | phone=+91 542 245 4104 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=The guesthouse is a colourful, family-owned, music-oriented house with panoramic views of the city and of the River Ganga. A couple of the rooms in this cozy 7-room guesthouse also have balconies and river views. Highly recommended. }} * {{sleep | name=Ganga Fuji Home | alt= | url= | email= | address=D7/21, Sakarkand Gali | lat= | long= | directions=between Man Mandeer Ghat and Dasaswamedh Ghat | phone=+91 542 239 7333 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double: ₹840 (without air-con), ₹1,300 (with air-con) | content=Some rooms have shared bathroom; more expensive rooms have air-con and TV. All rooms are clean, with clean sheets and towel. The rooftop restaurant offers evening concerts every night. }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Lodge | alt= | url= | email=goldenvaranasi@gmail.com | address=D. 8/35, Kalika Gali, Godowlia | lat= | long= | directions=Near Manikarnika Ghat | phone=+91 99355 12368 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price=Single w/shared bath: ₹350; Double w/shared bath: ₹400; double that for air-con, add ₹150 for attached bath. 20% discount in low season | content=Tucked away in the alleyways, friendly staff. Restaurant on site. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel River View | alt= | url=https://hotelriverviewvaranasi.blogspot.com/ | email= | address=K-20/133,134 Rajmandir Brahma Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=walk north from Dasaswamedh Ghat for about 15 minutes, and follow the numerous blue-and-white painted signs | phone=+91 9455578071 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$10-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Kedar Guest House |alt=| url=http://kedarguesthouse.com/ | email= | address=B-1/148-A-2-KH, Lodging Street, Dumraon Colony | lat= | long= | directions=Just west of Ravidas Ghat, along the Assi River | phone=+91 542 236 8853 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Single: ₹350 (shared bathroom outside), ₹850 (bathroom attached); double: ₹1250. Breakfast included. | checkin= | checkout= |lastedit=2019-03-14| content=Highly recommended. Amazing views. The owner is very knowledgeable and will give you maps and explain Varanasi. }} *{{sleep | name=Maa Vaishno Guest House | alt=माँ वैशो गेस्ट हाउस | url= | email=vermadinesh81@gmail.com | address=B5/188 Shivala Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=Shivala Ghat, just off Hanuman Ghat | phone=+91 938 917 8569 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹200-250 | checkin=24 hr | checkout=noon | content=One of the cheapest decent guesthouses in the area. Family run guesthouse. 10 clean rooms, all with attached bathroom with running hot and cold shower and view of the Ganga. Roof top restaurant, sunrise & sun set from roof & room, Free Wi-Fi, laundry service. }} * {{sleep | name=Marigold P. Guest House | alt= | url= | email=marigoldhouse@hotmail.com | address=D20/10-D Munshi Ghat, Dashashwmedh Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=off the main ghat | phone=+91 955 981 1240 | tollfree= | checkin=13:00 | checkout=noon | price=From ₹700 | content=Rooftop view of the Ganges. Highly recommended. }} * {{sleep | name=Mishra Guest House | url=http://www.mishraguesthouse.com/ | email= | address=Ck 8/178 Garwasi tolla Gaumath | lat= | long= | directions=Near Manikarnika Ghat | phone=+91 542 240 1143 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Single: ₹200; Double (non-AC): ₹300-400; Double (with air-con): 600-950 | checkin= | checkout= | content=The rooftop restaurant offers free evening concerts every night. }} *{{sleep | name=Monu Family Paying Guest House | url=http://www.monuguesthouse.com/ | email=monufamilyguesthouse@gmail.com | address=D8/4 Kalika Gali | lat= | long= | directions=Near Golden Temple | phone=+91 542 240 0908 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Single: ₹500; Double: ₹900 (plus ₹500 for air-con) | checkin=13:00 | checkout=11:00 | content=Music, cookery and language courses are available. }} * {{sleep | name=Radiant YMCA Tourist Hostel | alt=वायएमसीए हॉस्टल | url= | email= | address=Mahmoorganj Road, Sampoornanand Nagar Colony | lat= | long= | directions=3 km east of the main ghat | phone=+91 542-2224951, +91 542 2223831 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹765 | content=Opened in 1998. Restaurant with large menu. No dormitories, despite being called a hostel. }} * {{sleep | name=Sahi Riverview Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=B1/158 A2, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=on Assi Ghat, next to Harmony Book Shop | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=11:00 | price=₹1,200-₹2,000 for a double room. |lastedit=2019-08-27| content=Very clean and quiet. Great river views. Free Wi-Fi. Recommended. }} * {{sleep | name=Shiva Kashi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=D22/4 Chausatti Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=at Raja Ghat | phone=+91 923 551 2294 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price=₹500-2,000 | content=Very clean, well-decorated, quiet guest house. Pleasant and helpful staff. Rooms have windows, are light and airy. Some have balconies. Highly recommended. }} * {{sleep | name=Sita Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.sitaguesthouse.in/ | email=sitaguesthouse@yahoo.com | address=Chausatti Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=on the banks of the Ganges, next to the main ghat | phone=+91 542 2450061, +91 542 3251088 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (with air-con): ₹1,500-3,000 | content=Rooms are reasonably clean, somewhat small and most have a view over the river. Supposedly hot water in every room, the hotel also has a generator for the many power cuts in Varanasi but this often doesn't cover the air-con. Rooftop restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Tiwari Guest Lodge | url= | email= | address=B-1/243-A, Assi Ghat | lat= | long= | directions=Assi Crossing, across the street from Hotel Haifa | phone=+91 2315129 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Double: ₹500 | checkin= | checkout=negotiable | content=Run by a Brahmin and has a small temple on the site. Very relaxed and well maintained by local standards but do not expect staff to be present all the time. For check-in, the owner can usually be found sitting in the aryuvedic massage cubicle late afternoons. Bring your sheets and towel. Door is locked from midnight to 06:00. }} * {{sleep | name=Vishnu Rest House | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Vishnu-rest-house/215367985223577 | email= | address=Pandey Ghat | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 993 643 8706 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A hotel spanned over a 200-year-old Vishnu temple. A very clean and friendly guest house over looking the river, some rooms with views. You will often find classical music programs and puja held during morning and evening time. The rooms are with power backup and hot water. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Diamond Hotel | url=http://www.diamondhotel.co.in/ | email=diamotel@diamondhotel.co.in | address=Durgakund Road, Bhelupur | lat= | long= | directions=near IP Vijaya Mall, less than 1km from the ghats | phone= +91 542 2276696 | tollfree= | fax=+91 542 2276703 | hours= | price=Single: ₹2,500-3,750; Double: ₹3,000-5,500 | checkin= | checkout= noon | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Gautam Hotel | url=http://www.gautamhotelvns.com/ | email= | address=C-26/35D, Lahurabir, Ramkatora Crossing | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 94530 37806 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$16-25 | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | content=A budget 3-star hotel. Not walkable to the ghats. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel New Temple's Town | url= | email=reservation.newtemplestown@gmail.com | address=53, Patel Nagar, Cantonment | lat= | long= | directions=just north of Varanasi Junction Railway Station | phone=+91 542-2507733, +91 542-2507735 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$43 | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Ganga Kaveri | alt= | url=https://www.hotelgangakaveri.com/ | email=hotelgangakaveri@gmail.com | address=103/1, Atal Nagar Colony, Mavaiya, Sarnath | lat=25.365739 | long=83.022791 | directions=near Ganga Ghat | phone=+91 9919106495 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹ 1850 | lastedit=2024-07-29 | content=}} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=A Palace on the River, Rashmi Guest House | url=https://www.facebook.com/FaizanRGH/ | email= | address=D, 16/28-A | lat=25.308052 | long=83.010997 | directions=on Dasaswamedh Ghat | phone=+91 542 240 2778 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Great views and location. }} * {{Sleep|name=Brijrama Palace|alt=|address= Darbhanga Ghat|directions=|phone=+91 70840 07007|email=|url=https://www.heritagehotelsofindia.com/uttar-pradesh/brijrama-palace.html|checkin=|checkout=|lat=|long=|lastedit=|content=A luxury boutique hotel. One of the oldest buildings on the ghats. Views over the Ganga. Beautiful heritage-style rooms. Restaurants specializing in Indian cuisine|tollfree=|fax=}} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Surya | url=http://www.hotelsuryavns.com | email= | address=S. 20/51 A-5 The Mall Road Nepali Kothi | lat=25.339058 | long=82.979819 | directions= | phone=+91 542 2508466 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Hotel Varanasi | url=http://www.radisson.com/varanasi-hotel-up-221002/indvaran | email= | address=The Mall, Cantonment | lat=25.338580 | long=82.980771 | directions= | phone=+91 542 250 1515 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=From ₹3,200 in the low season, ₹5,500 in the high season | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ramada Plaza JHV | url=http://www.ramadajhvvns.com | email= | address=The Mall Cantonment | lat=25.335729 | long=82.977774 | directions= | phone=+91 542 2510000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Ganges | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-ganges/ | email=tajganges.varanasi@tajhotels.com | address=Nadesar Palace Grounds | directions= | phone=+91 542-666 0001 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From ₹5,000 in the low season, ₹6,500 in the high season | content=A five-star hotel owned by the Taj Group. 130 rooms set on 40 acres of gardens. The building is in the shape of a Hindu swastika. Pets are not allowed. | wikidata=Q111402389 }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Nadesar Palace | url=https://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj-nadesar-palace-varanasi/ | email= | address=Nadesar Palace Grounds | directions= | phone=+91 542 6660002-06 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=From ₹20,000 in the low season, ₹29,000 in the high season | checkin= | checkout= | content=A five-star hotel owned by the Taj Group. The building of the hotel used to be the residence of Mr Davis, the Magistrate of Benares, in January 1799. The same palace was later occupied by Maharaja Prabhu Narain Singh during his rule between 1889–1931. | wikidata=Q111402390 }} ==Stay safe== Violent crime is rare, but still do be careful in the lanes after dark. ===Power outages=== Carry a light or phone; power outages are now rare, but due to sleeping cows and broken paving stones, the alleys are hard enough to navigate in daylight, let alone in pitch dark. ===Stray dogs=== Though generally well behaved, packs of stray dogs can become aggressive at night ===Rickshaw and taxi scams=== Rickshaw and taxi scams are common in Varanasi, and the driver will inevitably tell you that the hotel that you wish to go to has burned down, is flooded, or closed. Don't believe him. Drivers receive commission from hotels for bringing in new guests, and this is one way to trick newcomers to going to these places. Don't get annoyed, but see the exchange as playful banter and part of the Varanasi experience. However, if the driver continuously refuses to follow your instructions, threaten to get out of the rickshaw. If after all this you still end up to a different place, just refuse to pay until you arrive at your hotel. The same procedure will need to be followed when sight seeing, as drivers will inevitably try to take you to handicraft stores, from which they receive commission. If calling for a pickup from a more respectable hostel, be wary that other taxi drivers may listen in to your phone conversation then tell another taxi driver who will pick you up pretending to be your hostel, then take you to a commission charging hostel. ===Cremation ghat scams=== As you approach Manikarnika Ghat, you will be approached by touts posing as cremators or volunteers in a local hospice. These people will explain the cremation process and even lead you to a good viewpoint. They will then take advantage of your emotions by asking you to pay for some wood to burn the body of someone who can't afford it. They will usually insist on receiving ₹500; if you offer less, it will initially be declined. This is a scam. Either tell him you have no money or that you don't feel comfortable donating. === Air pollution === Varanasi is one of the most polluted cities in the world. Many websites show air quality readings taken in the early morning, when pollution is at its lowest. Hourly air quality data is available [https://aqicn.org/city/india/varanasi/ardhali-bazar/ here]. Keep an eye on air quality data and consider wearing a (certified) mask, especially if you are spending an extended period of time in the city. ==Respect== [[File:India - Varanasi priest praying - 0970.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Priest praying to a hairless monkey in the Hanuman Temple]] ===Cremation ghats=== There is, rather understandably, some resentment at tourists tresspasing up to the cremation ghats for raucous sightseeing at the funeral ceremonies of loved ones. Behave respectfully and '''''do not''''' '''take photographs''' of cremations, even from the river. You can take photographs if it is from a distance; most do not mind. There are touts who for a fee will "stop minding". Note that if it is the family that objects then you have to respect it but not if local touts object in the interest of extracting money. Offer the money and if they seem ready to accept, withdraw it and photograph. Call the police if necessary. ===Temples=== Since this city is full of temples you will have to take off your shoes or sandals at every point, so wear flip-flops which are easy to take off. ==Connect== BSNL, Jio, Vi and Airtel are the most popular '''cell phone''' services in the region. If you bring your GSM cellphone from home, you can buy a SIM card and call within India and abroad. You will need your passport and a passport photo to buy a SIM card. '''Wi-Fi''' is available at just about every hotel or restaurant that caters to foreign tourists. '''Internet Cafes''' are common, especially in the lanes between Dasaswamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat. Usually, the shopkeepers will record your passport information before giving you access to the Wi-Fi. Calling abroad is cheap from [http://www.iwayindia.com/ Iway]{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} branches. ==Go next== * [[Agra]] - the next point on the tourist "Golden Triangle". Buses and trains, including overnight trains, leave several times a day. * [[Bodh Gaya]] - the place where Lord Buddha gained enlightenment, and the most sacred place to Buddhists - 6 to 7 hours by bus * [[Delhi]] - The capital can be reached via a 13-hour train journey. * [[Gaya]] - One of the most sacred places to do Pind Dan (funeral offerings for the benefit of the soul of the deceased). A 4+ hour drive from Varanasi. * [[Jaunpur]] - The district just northwest of Varanasi. Primarily a rural area. * [[Khajuraho]] - South of Varanasi. A number of 1,000-year-old Hindu and Jain temples. A little remote, but worth the effort to get there. * [[Lucknow]] - The capital of Uttar Pradesh. Known for its refined cuisine. A convenient place to break a journey to Delhi or [[Rishikesh]]. * [[Chunar]] - Located 55 km away Chunar is known for its gigantic fort overlooking the Ganges. The town is also known for Mughal era tomb and dargha along with a British era Christian cemetery. * [[Prayagraj]] (Allahabad) - Another spiritual city along the Ganges, Prayagraj can be reached via a 3-hour bus journey or by using the train. * [[Sarnath]] - The place where Buddha gave his first teaching after his enlightenment, and one of the four main pilgrimage sites for Buddhists. 10 km from Varanasi (ghat area) - 1 hour by auto. Rates from Assi Ghat: Auto - ₹400 one way - ₹700 return, including an hour waiting time. Taxi - over ₹1,500 for a return journey, including one hour waiting time. (updated March 2023) {{usablecity}} {{geo|25.282|82.9563}} {{IsPartOf|Purvanchal}} 4un1id5xcs8sb6v6w0v83derzvc1h7q 0 37919 5288932 5237708 2026-06-06T18:45:04Z Leona.g.07 2419170 /* Buy */ -- added details 5288932 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg|unesco=yes}} '''[http://www.vevey.ch Vevey]''' is one of the main towns of the Swiss Riviera, in the [[Lake Geneva Region]] of [[Switzerland]]. [[File:Vevey Switzerland Mont Pelerin.JPG|thumb|An image of Vevey. Taken from Mont-Pèlerin, which is accessible from Vevey via cable car.]] ==Get in== ===By train=== Trains between [[Geneva]] and [[Montreux]] travel along the northern shore of Lake Geneva and stop in Vevey. From elsewhere in Switzerland, you need to change in [[Lausanne]]. From Geneva the ride is about an hour and as of 2018 a return ticket costs Fr.&nbsp;58. {{go | name=Gare de Vevey | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.46296 | long=6.84341 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-10-20 | content= }} ===By bus=== Take [http://www.vmcv.ch/ bus 1] from Montreux or Chateau de Chillon to Vevey's city centre and funicular. ===By car=== Vevey is next to the east-west autoroute A9, and A12 connects the city to Berne in the northeast. For a more scenic drive, there's always the lakeside highway 9 from Lausanne or Montreaux. ==Get around== {{mapframe|layer=W}} You can walk most of the old town but for an excursion take the mountain railway to Pleiades for some great views and skiing in season. Make sure you get the Riviera Card at your hotel, you'll be able to use the bus for free. You can also get a free bike for whole day with Fr. 20 deposit, which just in front of "COOP" super market next to the train station. ==See== [[File:Cors04.jpg|thumb|Villa Le Lac]] * Beautiful views from the lake and the lake shores. * {{see | name=Musee l'Histoire de Vevey | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=from the main train station take the main street, turn left and go along until you'll encounter the signs | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-10-20 | content= }} * {{see | name=Monument de Henryk Sienkiewicz | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in the Grand Hotel du Lac | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-10-20 | content=The famous Nobel-prize winning writer's monument is in the Grand Hotel's garden, but the hotel's personnel is happy to help and talk about it. The writer was living and working there during his political emigration from occupied Poland. }} * {{see | name=Alimentarium | alt= | url=https://www.alimentarium.org/en/ | email= | address=Quai Perdonnet 25 | lat=46.45828 | long=6.845925 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu - Su 10:00 - 17:00, from October to March closes one hour earlier | price=Adults Fr.13 | lastedit=2018-10-15 | content=Food Museum (Nestle) }} :* {{see | name=Fork of Vevey | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Fork of Vevey | wikidata=Q38250820 | lastedit=2018-10-20 | content=8-metre-tall stainless steel fork on the shore of Lake Geneva. }} * {{see | name=Villa Le Lac | alt= | url=http://www.villalelac.ch/en/index.html {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Route de Lavaux 21 | lat=46.46838 | long=6.82943| directions=in the Corseaux district, west of downtown | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-07-22 | content=Designed by Le Corbusier in 1923, this is one of [[Le Corbusier World Heritage|17 of his buildings]] to be listed as a [[world heritage site]]. }} * {{see | name=Chaplin's World | alt= | url=https://www.chaplinsworld.com/en | email= | address=Route de Fenil 2, 1804 Corsier-sur-Vevey | lat=46.475436 | long=6.8470536 | directions=3 km from city center | phone=+41 842 422 422 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-05 | content=The vast estate, near Vevey, where supreme movie legend Charlie Chaplin lived with his family from 1953 to his death in 1977. The museum has been 15 years and an estimated Fr. 60 million in the making, and has two parts: the actor's house, and "the Studio", a newer building with a reconstruction of a Hollywood studio, that allows visitors to enter Chaplin's artistic environment. }} * {{see | name=Le Nest | alt= | url=https://www.le-nest.ch/ | email= | address=Chaussée de la Guinguette | lat=46.4645617 | long= 6.8445966 | directions= | phone= +41 21 924 40 40| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-10-15 | content=Museum about Nestle's History }} * {{see | name=Swiss Camera Museum | alt=Museum suisse de l’appareil photographique | url=http://www.cameramuseum.ch/ | email= | address= | lat=46.45993 | long=6.84136 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Vevey, Musée suisse de l’appareil photographique 1.jpg | wikidata=Q3330812 | lastedit=2018-10-15 | content= }} * {{see | name=Museum de la Confrérie des Vignerons | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-10-20 | content= }} * {{see | name=Musée Jenisch | alt= | url= | email= | address=avenue de la Gare | lat=46.46157 | long=6.84538 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-10-20 | content= }} * {{see | name=Swiss Museum of Games | alt=Musée suisse du jeu | url=http://www.museedujeu.ch/ | email= | address=Au Château | lat=46.4535 | long=6.8543 | directions= | phone=+41 21 977 23 00 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-10-20 | content= }} * {{see | name=Roman Catholic Church of Notre-Dame | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-10-20 | content= }} * {{see | name= Orthodox Church | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-10-20 | content= }} * {{see | name=Swiss Reformed Church of Saint-Martin | alt= | url= | email=|image=Picswiss_VD-43-25.jpg | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-10-20 | content= }} * {{see | name= Aile Castle | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q2971078 | lastedit=2018-10-20 | content= }} * {{see | name=Chemin de fer Blonay-Chamby | alt= | url=http://blonay-chamby.ch/fr/home/ | email= | address=Gare de Blonay| lat=46.465874 | long=6.895828 | directions=regular local trains run from Vevey to Blonay, on the line from Vevey to les Pleiades; Chamby station is served by trains on the Montreux-Oberland-Bernois railway from Montreux to Zweisimmen | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Trains operate weekends from May to October, plus Pentecost Monday | price=Day pass Fr. 20 adult, Fr. 10 children | lastedit=2019-06-17 | content=Switzerland's premier preserved railway and one of the most significant in Western Europe. Both steam and vintage electric trains operate over this metre-gauge line, part of the former Chemins de fer Electriques Veveysans. Passengers can also visit the museum and shed, which houses a large collection of metre-gauge trains and tramcars from all over Switzerland, as well as France, Germany, and Italy. On the last Sunday of each month and on Pentecost Monday trains operate all the way from Vevey, at extra cost. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Mountain Pelerin | alt= | url=http://www.goldenpass.ch/fr/goldenpass/offer/view?id=10 | email= | address= | lat=46.496878 | long=6.819247 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Mont Pèlerin | image=Picswiss VD-45-02.jpg | wikidata=Q302276 | lastedit=2015-08-09 | content=From the main train station take the Bus 1, direction Vevey-Funiculaire (ticket Fr.&nbsp;2.80). Alternatively, it's a walk of seven blocks. The ticket for the funicular costs Fr.&nbsp;10.80 (return) and offers nice views. The views and atmosphere on the Mont Pelerin are marvelous, but do take a hike trip to its summit where the telecommunication tower is located. It takes a bit more than an hour to get there, following an asphalt path through the rural area, yet, sometimes it is rather sloppy but nothing special. The elevator for the tower costs Fr.&nbsp;5 (Fr.&nbsp;3 for children <16yr, but it sells only children tickets due to a fault) and is fully automatic. It offers magnificent panoramic views on the Alps, Vevey and Montreux. }} * In the summer you can '''rent a pedal boat or motor boat''' and take a trip on the lake. Rates vary from Fr.&nbsp;18 for 1/2h on a pedal boat up to Fr.&nbsp;220 for the largest motor boat for which you'd need a boat drivers license. ==Buy== Vevey is full of charming shops, including boutiques, jewelry stores, book stores, and more, which you can find simply by walking around the city. This is a very limited list. For the best experience, explore the cute shopping district for yourself! * '''Bookstores La Fontaine.''' Charming, well-stocked bookstore with a range of offerings. Friendly and helpful staff. * '''Boutique Parenthèse enchantée.''' Boutique with apparel for babies and mothers. * '''Ly Thanh Vevey Sàrl.''' Offers Asian groceries that are difficult to find elsewhere in Switzerland. * '''VELOMANIA Vevey.''' Cycling shop that also offers bike repair services. Bikes and e-bikes are available for sale. Wonderful service with knowledgeable employees. * '''McOptic.''' No relationship to McDonald's. On the pricier side, with a large of cute eyewear for sale - stop in if you forgot your sunglasses to enjoy the kind employees. ==Eat== * {{eat | name=National Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2008-10-20 | content=Expect the service to be a little slow when it's busy but if you're not in a hurry and are out for a good time the great atmosphere makes the wait worthwhile. The food is great and they keep changing the menu every month. During the summer they have a great terrace and in the winter it's the best place to go. It's just outside the main square on the right side if you're facing the lake. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant des Trois Sifflets | url= | email= | address=Rue du Simplon 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+41 21 921 14 13 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The cheese fondue arrives with quite the fanfare. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant Denis Martin | alt= | url=http://www.denismartin.ch | email= | address= Rue du Château 2 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+41 21 921 12 10 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa from 19:00 onwards | price=From Fr.&nbsp;280 | lastedit=2016-11-21 | content=If you're into molecular cuisine à la Heston Blumenthal. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Charlies | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=just outside the main town square | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2008-10-20 | content=During the summer they open the bar right on the border of the lake, it's the best place in town to relax and have a couple of beers until sunset. }} * {{drink | name=Le V^e | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2008-10-20 | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Rocking Chair | alt= | url=http://www.rocking-chair.ch/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2008-10-20 | content= }} * {{drink | name=le Bout du Monde | alt= | url=http://www.leboutdumonde.ch | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2008-10-20 | content=Drink a toast to "the end of the world". }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Riviera Lodge backpacker | alt= | url=http://www.rivieralodge.ch/ | email=info@rivieralodge.ch | address=Grande place 5 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+41 21 923 80 40 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2008-10-20 | content= Rooms 2, 4, 6 or 8 beds from Fr.&nbsp;27. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Les Negociants | alt= | url=https://hotelnegociants.ch/ | email=info@hotelnegociants.ch | address=Rue du Conseil 27 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+41 21 922 70 11 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2008-10-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Egli Bed and Breakfast | alt= | url=http://www.bnb.ch/index.php?p=page&id=14 | email= | address=Chemin du Petit-Centenaire 8, 1802 Corseaux | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+41 21 922 60 87 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= They have a cat, so beware if you are allergic. Views of the lake are amazing. You are staying in someone's home though. Nice place to start the wine hike or go up the funicular for dinner. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Hotel Du Lac | alt= | url=http://www.hoteldulac-vevey.ch/ | email= | address=1 Rue d'Italie | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+41 21 925 06 06 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2008-10-20 | content= It opened in the winter of 2006 and it's an absolutely beautiful hotel, get a room facing the lake. }} * {{sleep | name=Astra Pavillon | alt= | url=http://www.astra-hotel.ch/ | email=info@astra-hotel.ch | address=Place de la Gare 4 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+41 21 925 04 04 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2008-10-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hôtel des Trois Couronnes | alt= | url=http://www.hoteltroiscouronnes.ch/ | email=info@hoteltroiscouronnes.ch | address=Rue d'Italie 49 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+41 21 923 32 00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2008-10-20 | content= }} * {{sleep|name=Modern Times Hotel|alt=|url=https://moderntimeshotel.ch|email=info@moderntimeshotel.ch|address=Chemin du Genévrier 20|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+41 21 925 22 22|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=|lastedit=2018-02-05|content=This hotel is right after the highway exit, has nice view over the city. You need a car if you stay there.}} ==Go next== *[[Montreux]] *[[Lavaux]] *[[Lausanne]] {{usablecity}} {{geo|46.4667|6.8500}} {{IsPartOf|Vaud}} kde736f08p5bgjznpri2xqfjkhv34t1 0 39149 5289006 5207552 2026-06-07T06:44:47Z ~2026-33432-01 2419418 /* By taxi */ Added listing for West Vancouver Limo & Chauffeur Service 5289006 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|West Vancouver banner ambleside beach2.jpg|caption=Ambleside Beach with the Lions Gate Bridge}} '''[https://westvancouver.ca/ West Vancouver]''' is a suburban area of [[Vancouver]]'s North Shore in the [[Lower Mainland]] of [[British Columbia]], [[Canada]]. It has a few good parks, excellent hikes and some of the most expensive property in Canada. ==Understand== {{climate chart |West Vancouver |1.7 |6.9 |274.9 |1.7 |8.3 |161.7 |3.1 |10.5 |222.8 |5.1 |13.8 |126.0 |8.6 |17.8 |112.3 |11.1 |20.2 |82.7 |13.5 |23.1 |49.4 |13.9 |23.4 |49.9 |11.4 |20.1 |99.0 |7.3 |14.0 |206.0 |3.6 |9.2 |296.4 |1.3 |6.3 |282.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:West Vancouver]], weatherstats.ca |description= }} [[File:Tugboat in front of North Vancouver.jpg|thumb|350px|West Vancouver and Grouse Mountain, viewed from across English Bay]] West Vancouver is mainly a residential district as it has no manufacturing industry by law. Many of its residents commute to downtown Vancouver, work at home, or are retired. It is home to some very large expensive houses, most with views of Vancouver Island, English Bay, and/or Howe Sound. West Van (as the locals call it) is Canada's wealthiest municipality (followed by its neighbor, [[North Vancouver]]). Together with the District of [[North Vancouver]] and City of [[North Vancouver]], it is part of a local regional grouping referred to as the North Shore municipalities, or simply "The [[North Shore (British Columbia)|North Shore]]". ==Get in== {{Mapframe|49.364|-123.201|width=500|zoom=12}} {{mapshape}} See [[Vancouver]] for options to get in the Vancouver area by plane, by bus, and by train, and by boat. ===By car=== The main entry points to West Vancouver are '''Highway 1''' ([[Trans-Canada Highway]]) from [[North Vancouver]] or by '''Highway 99''' across the '''Lion's Gate Bridge''' from [[Vancouver]]. Visitors travelling '''south on Highway 99''' from [[Squamish]] or [[Whistler]] will arrive in the North Shore just above Horseshoe Bay. ===By boat=== * {{go | name=BC Ferries | alt= | url=https://www.bcferries.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-888-223-3779 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=BC Ferries | wikidata=Q795723 | lastedit=2022-04-30 | content=Operates ferries connecting coastal British Columbia communities. }} ** {{go | name=Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) ferry terminal | alt= | url=https://www.bcferries.com/travel-boarding/terminal-directions-parking-food/vancouver-horseshoe-bay/HSB | email= | address=6750 Keith Rd | lat=49.37544 | long=-123.27157 | directions=connects directly with Highway 1 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal | wikidata=Q1628996 | lastedit=2023-08-30 | content= }} *** Destinations served by this terminal, all using ferries that carry vehicles and foot passengers: **** [[Bowen Island]] (Snug Cove) ferry terminal (20 minute crossing), operating every 1.25 to 2 hours. Daily first inbound departures are normally at 5:20 am and daily first outbound departures are at 5:50 am, except on Sundays, when inbound departures normally start at 6:20 am. Last departures vary seasonally, but generally depart sometime between 10 pm and 11 pm. **** [[Nanaimo]] (Departure Bay) ferry terminal on [[Vancouver Island]] (1 hour 40 minute crossing), operating slightly less frequently than every 2 hours. First and last departure times vary seasonally with typical inbound and outbound daily first departures being around 6:15 am and last departures being around 10 pm or 11 pm. **** [[Sunshine Coast (British Columbia)|Sunshine Coast]] (Langdale) ferry terminal (40 minute crossing) near [[Gibsons]], operating slightly less frequently than every 2 hours. Normally, the daily first inbound departure is at 6:20 am, the first outbound departure is at 7:30 am. Last departures vary seasonally from around 9 pm to nearly 11 pm. ***Reservations **** Reservations can be completed on BC Ferries' website or by phone. **** Reservations are a generally good idea, as ferries can fill up. If you book far enough in advance and prepay with saver fare is available, you may even pay less than showing up at the terminal. Otherwise, reservations increase the cost of the trip, between increasing cost between $2.50 extra and $17, depending on which option you choose. **** Drivers must redeem their reservation at the ferry terminal at least 30 minutes before the scheduled sailing or they lose their guarantee to be on the sailing and are given the same priority as anyone else showing up at the ferry terminal without a reservation. ***[[File:Horshbay-ferrytermin-entrance.jpg|thumb|Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) ferry terminal's entrance for foot passengers]]Public transit ****Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) ferry terminal is served by several of [https://www.translink.ca/ TransLink's] bus routes including: *****Route 250, connecting to downtown [[Vancouver]]. Enables connections with Burrard station (SkyTrain Expo Line) at its stop on Georgia St at Burrard St, and with Granville station (SkyTrain Expo Line) and Vancouver City Centre station (SkyTrain Canada Line) at its stop on Georgia St at Granville St *****Route 257, a limited stop service connecting to downtown [[Vancouver]]. Enables connections with Burrard station (SkyTrain Expo Line) at its stop on Georgia St at Burrard St, and with Granville station (SkyTrain Expo Line) and Vancouver City Centre station (SkyTrain Canada Line) at its stop on Georgia St at Granville St. This is faster than Route 250 if your destination is downtown. *****Route 262, connecting to [[Lions Bay-Britannia Beach|Lions Bay]] and parts of West Vancouver ****Bowen Island (Snug Cove) ferry terminal has bus service operated by TransLink on routes 280, 281, and 282, which travel to different parts of the island ****Nanaimo (Departure Bay) ferry terminal is served by bus routes operates by [https://www.bctransit.com/nanaimo BC Transit] on the following routes: *****Routes 20 and 20A travel between downtown Nanaimo and Woodgrove Exchange (in north Nanaimo) via the ferry terminal *****Route 25 travels a large single direction loop around Nanaimo, starting at Woodgrove Exchange, stopping at the ferry terminal, stopping in downtown, stopping at Vancouver Island University (VIU), and then ending at Woodgrove Exchange. ****Sunshine Coast (Langdale) ferry terminal is served by bus routes operated by [https://www.bctransit.com/sunshine-coast BC Transit]: *****Route 1 connects with [[Sechelt]] via [[Gibsons]] *****Route 90 connects with [[Sechelt]] via [[Gibsons]], but includes less detours, resulting in faster travel time to and from Sechelt ***Parking options **** Short-term and long-term parking are available at the ferry terminal, but parking availability may be limited at peak times. BC Ferries' website identifies the [https://www.bcferries.com/travel-boarding/terminal-directions-parking-food/vancouver-horseshoe-bay/HSB current amount of long-term parking remaining]. ***Amenities **** Wi-Fi: Free service at the ferry terminal. Not offered on the ferries. **** Washrooms: Available in the terminal and on board ferries. **** Eating and shopping: Vending machines sell snacks in the terminal. Restaurants and shops are located in a several block retail area immediately west of the terminal. A cafeteria style-restaurant and a gift shop are on board the ferries, except on the ferry connecting to Bowen Island. ==Get around== === By public transit === {{listing | name=TransLink | alt= | url=https://www.translink.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-604-953-3333 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=TransLink (British Columbia) | wikidata=Q1142140 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=The main public transit network in the [[Vancouver]] area, including: [[Bowen Island]], [[Burnaby]], [[Coquitlam]], [[Delta (British Columbia)|Delta]], [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]], [[Lions_Bay-Britannia_Beach|Lions Bay]], [[Maple Ridge]], [[New Westminster]], [[North Vancouver]], [[Port Coquitlam]], [[Pitt Meadows]], [[Port Moody]], [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]], [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], Vancouver, West Vancouver, and [[White Rock]]. Its network includes buses, SkyTrain (rail rapid transit), SeaBus (ferries), West Coast Express (commuter rail), and HandyDART (door-to-door shared-ride service for those who cannot ride public transit without assistance). }} Passengers can pay for fares using Compass Cards ($6 refundable deposit), Compass Tickets, or tap-to-pay using contactless credit cards (only American Express, Mastercard or Visa) or mobile wallets. Passengers using Compass Cards and Compass Tickets pay discounted fares. Passengers can transfer for up to 90 minutes, except if taking West Coast Express, in which case they can transfer for up to 120 minutes. On bus and HandyDART, passengers can also pay in cash, but in that case will not receive change and are not eligible for transfers. {{pbri}} Zone based fares apply between Monday and Friday for trips starting before 6:30 pm, if travel involves SkyTrain or SeaBus. Outside of those hours or for travel on only bus or HandyDART, a single zone rate applies. If traveling by West Coast Express, a higher cost zone based fare system applies regardless of time of travel. {{pbri}} Children 12 and under can ride for free. People aged 13 to 18, and 65 and older pay discounted concession fares. Travelling to/from [[North Vancouver]] costs {{translink|1}} for a standard adult fare (as of {{translink|faredate}}). Crossing the harbour means crossing a fare zone boundary so a ticket to/from [[Vancouver]], [[Burnaby]] or [[Richmond (British Columbia) | Richmond]] will cost {{translink|2}} and a ticket to/from [[Surrey (British Columbia) | Surrey]] will cost {{translink|3}}. ==== By bus ==== West Vancouver is served by the Blue Bus. It is one of two bus companies in the Greater Vancouver region operating under contract for TransLink, and transfer is free between the Blue Buses and other TransLink buses. The following are routes connecting West Vancouver with other communities: * R2 - Frequent limited stop rapid bus, between Park Royal Mall in West Vancouver and Phibbs Exchange in [[North Vancouver]] with a stop along the way at Londsdale Quay Exchange (adjacent to Lonsdale Quay SeaBus terminal) in North Vancouver * 250 - Between downtown [[Vancouver]] and Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal with a stop along the way at Park Royal Mall. In Vancouver, stops within a block of Burrard station (SkyTrain Expo Line), Granville station (SkyTrain Expo Line), Vancouver City Centre station (SkyTrain Canada Line). * 257 - Limited stop route between downtown [[Vancouver]] and Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal with a stop along the way at Park Royal Mall. In Vancouver, stops within a block of Burrard station (SkyTrain Expo Line), Granville station (SkyTrain Expo Line), Vancouver City Centre station (SkyTrain Canada Line). * 262 - travels between Caufeild and [[Lions Bay-Britannia Beach|Lions Bay]] with a stop at Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal. === By taxi === * {{Listing|name=North Shore Taxi|url=https://www.northshoretaxi.com/|phone=+1 604-987-7171|lastedit=2022-07-27}} * {{go | name=West Vancouver Limo & Chauffeur Service | alt= | url=https://www.signaturecarservice.ca/west-vancouver-limo-chauffeur-service/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 778-651-7711 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-07 | content= }} === By water taxi === * {{Go|name=Cormorant Water Taxi|url=https://www.cormorantwatertaxi.com/|phone=+1 604-250-2630|lastedit=2023-05-31|content=Operates water taxi services including stopping at Horseshoe Bay. Services nearby islands including [[Bowen Island]]. Offers schedule services between Horseshoe Bay and Gambier Island.}} === By ride hailing === * {{Listing|name=Kabu|url=https://www.kabu.ca/|lastedit=2022-07-29}} * {{listing | name=Lyft | alt= | url=https://www.lyft.com/rider/cities/vancouver-bc | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lyft | wikidata=Q17077936 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/vancouver/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Uber | wikidata=Q780442 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} ==See== * [[File:Lighthouse Lighthouse Park.JPG|thumb|Lighthouse within Lighthouse Park]]{{see | name=Lighthouse Park | alt= | url=https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/lighthouse-park | email= | address=Beacon Lane | lat=49.3371 | long=-123.2627 | directions=follow Marine Dr west from Dundarave, turn left onto Beacon Lane and follow it to the park parking lot | phone=+1 604 925-7270 (for information about recreation programs and facility rentals) | tollfree= | hours=Open daily 6AM-10:30PM | price=Free | wikipedia=Lighthouse Park | wikidata=Q1824686 | content=Trails wind over and around huge glacial boulders and old-growth forest, some leading down to various beaches with views of Vancouver. The main trail from the parking are leads to the Point Atkinson lighthouse for which the park is named (entry not permitted though). There are picnic facilities (no fires permitted), bathrooms, and in season wildlife lectures. A great place for families with kids. You can take your dog, but he must be leashed between May and September to avoid disturbing seasonal wildlife. This is a popular hiking spot, so trails tend to be fairly busy. }} * {{see | name=Cypress Falls Park | alt= | url=https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/cypress-falls-park | email= | address=at the end of Woodgreen Pl | lat=49.3521 | long=-123.2409 | directions=take exit 4 from Hwy 1 and head east on Westport Dr; it becomes Woodgreen Dr, turn right shortly after at Woodgreen Pl | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Whytecliff Park | alt= | url=https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/whytecliff-park | email= | address=Marine Dr | lat=49.373 | long=-123.2909 | directions=7000 block of Marine Drive just west of Horseshoe Bay | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Whytecliff Park | wikidata=Q7997950 | content=Offers great natural views of the coast. There are some areas of pebble beach with some sand mixed in. }} ==Do== [[Image:Lions Gate Bridge West Vancouver.jpg|thumb|The Lions Gate Bridge viewed from Ambleside Park.]] [[Image:Cypress mtn.jpg|thumb|right|Cypress Mountain ski area]] * {{do | name=Ambleside Beach | alt= | url=https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/ambleside-park | email= | address=Argyle Ave, east of 13th St | lat=49.3241 | long=-123.1505 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ambleside Park - West Vancouver - panoramio.jpg | wikidata=Q4741533 | content=Probably the nicest sandy beach on the North Shore, though with lots of pebbles mixed in on much of the beach, unlike the almost fully sand beaches in Delta, Vancouver, and White Rock. It is a common place to come for a walk or to hang out on the beach. Has a nice view of Stanley Park and the Lions Gate Bridge. }} * {{do | name=Dundarave Beach | alt= | url=https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/ambleside-park | email= | address=foot of 25th St | lat=49.3328 | long=-123.1827 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A small pleasant beach on the west end of the sea wall. While there is sand on some of the more elevated parts of the beach, the portions closest to the water are most pebbles. The pier provides views of Stanley Park and the Lions Gate Bridge. It is a popular place to have a picnic in the summer. }} * {{do | name=Cypress Mountain | alt= | url=https://cypressmountain.com/ | email= | address=top of Cypress Bowl Rd | lat=49.3961 | long=-123.2037 | directions=exit 8 from Hwy 1 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Cypress is usually open from 9AM to 4PM throughout the season, with night skiing (closes at 10PM) starting in early/mid Dec and extending until March | price=''Full day Downhill tickets'' are $46 (adult), $39 (youth), $23 (seniors) and $20 (child). There is an extra premium over the Christmas period and discounts for evening (4PM) and night (7PM) skiing. ''Full day Cross country tickets'' are $17 (adult), $13 (youth), $11 (seniors) and $10 (child). Evening tickets (after 3PM) are discounted | wikidata=Q1137200 | content=The downhill area is spread across two mountains and has the largest vertical of the North Shore skifields with a good mix of beginner, intermediate and advanced runs. There is a cross-country and tubing area around Hollyburn Mountain. }} * {{do | name=West Vancouver Sea Wall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.3270 | long=-123.1624 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A mostly paved walkway along the ocean that runs between Ambleside Park and Dundarave Village. It's very popular in the summer and on nice weekends. }} ===Festivals=== * [https://www.cohosociety.com/coho-festival/ Coho Festival]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (September) ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Park Royal Shopping Centre | alt= | url=https://parkroyal.ca/ | email= | address=752 Marine Dr | lat=49.3253 | long=-123.1375 | directions=Marine Dr at Taylor Way | phone=+1 604-925-9576 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Park Royal Shopping Centre | wikidata=Q7137992 | content=Open every day. A major shopping mall on the north and south sides of Marine Drive with indoor and outdoor shopping sections and restaurants. Anchor tenants include: The Bay, London Drugs, Super Value, Sport Chek, Coast Mountain Sports, Linens & Things, Home Depot, Old Navy, Whole Foods. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=The Beach House | url=https://www.thebeachhouserestaurant.ca/ | email= | address=150 25th St | lat=49.3332 | long=-123.1822 | directions=at the Dundarave Pier in West Vancouver | phone = +1 604-922-1414 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Mains $30-40 |lastedit=2023-03-05| content=Another North Shore restaurant that specializes in seafood. The view of Vancouver harbour is fabulous. }} * {{eat | name=The Boathouse | url=https://www.boathouserestaurants.ca/ | email= | address=6695 Nelson Ave | lat=49.3761 | long=-123.2753 | directions=on the waterfront in Horseshoe Bay | phone = +1 604-921-8188 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Mains $15-40, appetizers $7-12 |lastedit=2023-03-05| content=Built out over the water in Horseshoe Bay, this restaurant has a large seafood selection including a variety of fresh fish, oysters and Atlantic lobsters. If fish isn't your thing, there are a number of steaks and a large wine menu. There is also an outdoor patio to enjoy the sunny days. }} * {{eat | name=Carmelo's | url=https://carmelos.ca/ | email= | address=1448 Marine Dr | lat=49.3279 | long=-123.1555 | directions=Ambleside | phone = +1 604-922-4719 | tollfree= | fax=+1 604-922-4613 | hours= | price=Mains $12-30, appetizers $6-15 |lastedit=2023-03-05| content=Serves a variety of pasta, meat and pizza dishes. }} * {{eat|name=Osaka Supermarket|url=https://www.tntsupermarket.com/|email=|address=2200 Park Royal South|lat=49.32499|long=-123.13770|directions=|phone=+1 778-279-8988|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2023-02-04|content=If you are looking for fresh food & grocery, it's a great place to shop! Lots of fresh selection for daily needs, great price & even live seafood! The hot food & sushi section is amazing!}} * {{eat | name=Zen Japanese Restaurant | alt= | url=https://zenjapanese.ca/ | email= | address=101-2232 Marine Dr | lat=49.3308 | long=-123.1721 | directions= | phone=+1 604-925-0667 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th noon-9:15PM, F-Sa noon-9:30PM, Su noon-9PM | price=Dinner $25-35/person | lastedit=2017-01-27 | content=A broad menu of Japanese food styles — sushi, sashimi, robata, plus fusion, and westcoast cuisine — executed with creativity and flair. Bright attractive dining room, with patio seating available on fine days. Lots of seafood, of course, but also a respectable choice of vegetarian dishes. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Square Rigger Pub | alt="The Rigger" ,"West Vancouver's dirty secret" | url=https://thesquareriggerpub.com/ | email=thesquareriggerpub@gmail.com | address=150-1425 Marine Dr | lat=49.32835 | long=-123.15501 | directions= | phone=+1-604-281-4648 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-midnight | price=$5-10 a drink depending on brand & size | lastedit=2017-01-12 | content=An almost secret locals hang out, it has a very warm and casual atmosphere. Billiards table, Foosball, darts, and ping-pong are available for entertainment. There are "pull tab" lottery machines, keno, & video black jack for the gambler in you. Bar tenders have great taste in music, and along with several TV's. }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Capilano R.V. Park | url=https://www.capilanoriverrvpark.com/ | email= | address=295 Tomahawk Ave | lat=49.3245 | long=-123.1318 | directions=from the Lions Gate Bridge, head east on Marine Drive, turn right onto Capilano Rd and follow the signs | phone=+1 604 987-4722 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= |lastedit=2023-03-05| content=Campground and RV park set between the Capilano River and the Lions Gate Bridge. It has a swimming pool, laundromat, showers, Internet connection and other amenities. }} * {{sleep | name=Horseshoe Bay Motel | url=http://horseshoebaymotel.ca | email= | address=6588 Royal Ave, Horseshoe Bay | lat=49.3733 | long=-123.2749 | directions= | phone=+1 604 921-7454 | tollfree=+1-877-717-3377 | fax= | hours= | price=$128-158 | checkin= | checkout= | content=23 rooms with a mix of one queen, one king and two queen-sized beds. Free wifi is available. Location is excellent if catching an early morning ferry to Vancouver Island or the Sunshine Coast. }} ==Connect== == Cope == === Newspaper === * {{listing|name=North Shore News|alt=|url=https://www.nsnews.com/|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+1 604-986-1337|tollfree=|hours=|price=Free|wikidata=Q55810122|lastedit=2023-03-29|content=Local paper that publishes once a week. A good source of information for local events and restaurants.}} === Hospital === The nearest hospital is in [[North Vancouver#Cope|North Vancouver]]. ==Go next== [[Vancouver Island]] is a 1 hr 35 min ferry ride away via '''BC Ferries''' and the '''Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal'''. Arriving in [[Nanaimo]], you can head down island to [[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]], the capital of British Columbia, or across the island to [[Tofino]], where you can go whale-watching, surf and storm-watch. Other ferry destinations from Horseshoe Bay are [[Bowen Island]] and the [[Sunshine Coast (British Columbia)|Sunshine Coast]]. Northward on '''Hwy 99''' takes you through the [[Sea to Sky]] region, which offers varied outdoor activities including hiking, swimming, rock climbing and camping. It also takes you to the resort area of [[Whistler]], with its nightlife, fine dining and a wide variety of activities that will keep you busy regardless of what season it is. {{routebox | image1=BC-1 (TCH).svg | imagesize1=22 | link1=Trans-Canada Highway | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]] | minorl1=[[Nanaimo]] ← {{rint|ferry}} | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Vancouver]] | minorr1=[[North Vancouver]] | image2=BC-99.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=&nbsp;N | majorl2=[[Whistler]] | minorl2=[[Lions Bay-Britannia Beach]] | directionr2=S | majorr2=[[Seattle]] | minorr2='''[[Vancouver]]''' | image3=BC-101.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=&nbsp;N | majorl3=[[Powell River]] | minorl3=[[Gibsons]] ← {{rint|ferry}} | directionr3=S | majorr3=END | minorr3= }} {{usablecity}} {{geo|49.33855|-123.19038|zoom=13}} {{IsPartOf|North Shore (British Columbia)}} pp9ed4n7ltgvjz2capzae7cjk7yr3yl 5289035 5289006 2026-06-07T10:21:21Z Ikan Kekek 36420 Reverted edits by [[Special:Contributions/~2026-33432-01|~2026-33432-01]] ([[User talk:~2026-33432-01|talk]]) to last version by [[User:Toran107|Toran107]] 5207552 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|West Vancouver banner ambleside beach2.jpg|caption=Ambleside Beach with the Lions Gate Bridge}} '''[https://westvancouver.ca/ West Vancouver]''' is a suburban area of [[Vancouver]]'s North Shore in the [[Lower Mainland]] of [[British Columbia]], [[Canada]]. It has a few good parks, excellent hikes and some of the most expensive property in Canada. ==Understand== {{climate chart |West Vancouver |1.7 |6.9 |274.9 |1.7 |8.3 |161.7 |3.1 |10.5 |222.8 |5.1 |13.8 |126.0 |8.6 |17.8 |112.3 |11.1 |20.2 |82.7 |13.5 |23.1 |49.4 |13.9 |23.4 |49.9 |11.4 |20.1 |99.0 |7.3 |14.0 |206.0 |3.6 |9.2 |296.4 |1.3 |6.3 |282.5 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:West Vancouver]], weatherstats.ca |description= }} [[File:Tugboat in front of North Vancouver.jpg|thumb|350px|West Vancouver and Grouse Mountain, viewed from across English Bay]] West Vancouver is mainly a residential district as it has no manufacturing industry by law. Many of its residents commute to downtown Vancouver, work at home, or are retired. It is home to some very large expensive houses, most with views of Vancouver Island, English Bay, and/or Howe Sound. West Van (as the locals call it) is Canada's wealthiest municipality (followed by its neighbor, [[North Vancouver]]). Together with the District of [[North Vancouver]] and City of [[North Vancouver]], it is part of a local regional grouping referred to as the North Shore municipalities, or simply "The [[North Shore (British Columbia)|North Shore]]". ==Get in== {{Mapframe|49.364|-123.201|width=500|zoom=12}} {{mapshape}} See [[Vancouver]] for options to get in the Vancouver area by plane, by bus, and by train, and by boat. ===By car=== The main entry points to West Vancouver are '''Highway 1''' ([[Trans-Canada Highway]]) from [[North Vancouver]] or by '''Highway 99''' across the '''Lion's Gate Bridge''' from [[Vancouver]]. Visitors travelling '''south on Highway 99''' from [[Squamish]] or [[Whistler]] will arrive in the North Shore just above Horseshoe Bay. ===By boat=== * {{go | name=BC Ferries | alt= | url=https://www.bcferries.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-888-223-3779 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=BC Ferries | wikidata=Q795723 | lastedit=2022-04-30 | content=Operates ferries connecting coastal British Columbia communities. }} ** {{go | name=Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) ferry terminal | alt= | url=https://www.bcferries.com/travel-boarding/terminal-directions-parking-food/vancouver-horseshoe-bay/HSB | email= | address=6750 Keith Rd | lat=49.37544 | long=-123.27157 | directions=connects directly with Highway 1 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal | wikidata=Q1628996 | lastedit=2023-08-30 | content= }} *** Destinations served by this terminal, all using ferries that carry vehicles and foot passengers: **** [[Bowen Island]] (Snug Cove) ferry terminal (20 minute crossing), operating every 1.25 to 2 hours. Daily first inbound departures are normally at 5:20 am and daily first outbound departures are at 5:50 am, except on Sundays, when inbound departures normally start at 6:20 am. Last departures vary seasonally, but generally depart sometime between 10 pm and 11 pm. **** [[Nanaimo]] (Departure Bay) ferry terminal on [[Vancouver Island]] (1 hour 40 minute crossing), operating slightly less frequently than every 2 hours. First and last departure times vary seasonally with typical inbound and outbound daily first departures being around 6:15 am and last departures being around 10 pm or 11 pm. **** [[Sunshine Coast (British Columbia)|Sunshine Coast]] (Langdale) ferry terminal (40 minute crossing) near [[Gibsons]], operating slightly less frequently than every 2 hours. Normally, the daily first inbound departure is at 6:20 am, the first outbound departure is at 7:30 am. Last departures vary seasonally from around 9 pm to nearly 11 pm. ***Reservations **** Reservations can be completed on BC Ferries' website or by phone. **** Reservations are a generally good idea, as ferries can fill up. If you book far enough in advance and prepay with saver fare is available, you may even pay less than showing up at the terminal. Otherwise, reservations increase the cost of the trip, between increasing cost between $2.50 extra and $17, depending on which option you choose. **** Drivers must redeem their reservation at the ferry terminal at least 30 minutes before the scheduled sailing or they lose their guarantee to be on the sailing and are given the same priority as anyone else showing up at the ferry terminal without a reservation. ***[[File:Horshbay-ferrytermin-entrance.jpg|thumb|Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) ferry terminal's entrance for foot passengers]]Public transit ****Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) ferry terminal is served by several of [https://www.translink.ca/ TransLink's] bus routes including: *****Route 250, connecting to downtown [[Vancouver]]. Enables connections with Burrard station (SkyTrain Expo Line) at its stop on Georgia St at Burrard St, and with Granville station (SkyTrain Expo Line) and Vancouver City Centre station (SkyTrain Canada Line) at its stop on Georgia St at Granville St *****Route 257, a limited stop service connecting to downtown [[Vancouver]]. Enables connections with Burrard station (SkyTrain Expo Line) at its stop on Georgia St at Burrard St, and with Granville station (SkyTrain Expo Line) and Vancouver City Centre station (SkyTrain Canada Line) at its stop on Georgia St at Granville St. This is faster than Route 250 if your destination is downtown. *****Route 262, connecting to [[Lions Bay-Britannia Beach|Lions Bay]] and parts of West Vancouver ****Bowen Island (Snug Cove) ferry terminal has bus service operated by TransLink on routes 280, 281, and 282, which travel to different parts of the island ****Nanaimo (Departure Bay) ferry terminal is served by bus routes operates by [https://www.bctransit.com/nanaimo BC Transit] on the following routes: *****Routes 20 and 20A travel between downtown Nanaimo and Woodgrove Exchange (in north Nanaimo) via the ferry terminal *****Route 25 travels a large single direction loop around Nanaimo, starting at Woodgrove Exchange, stopping at the ferry terminal, stopping in downtown, stopping at Vancouver Island University (VIU), and then ending at Woodgrove Exchange. ****Sunshine Coast (Langdale) ferry terminal is served by bus routes operated by [https://www.bctransit.com/sunshine-coast BC Transit]: *****Route 1 connects with [[Sechelt]] via [[Gibsons]] *****Route 90 connects with [[Sechelt]] via [[Gibsons]], but includes less detours, resulting in faster travel time to and from Sechelt ***Parking options **** Short-term and long-term parking are available at the ferry terminal, but parking availability may be limited at peak times. BC Ferries' website identifies the [https://www.bcferries.com/travel-boarding/terminal-directions-parking-food/vancouver-horseshoe-bay/HSB current amount of long-term parking remaining]. ***Amenities **** Wi-Fi: Free service at the ferry terminal. Not offered on the ferries. **** Washrooms: Available in the terminal and on board ferries. **** Eating and shopping: Vending machines sell snacks in the terminal. Restaurants and shops are located in a several block retail area immediately west of the terminal. A cafeteria style-restaurant and a gift shop are on board the ferries, except on the ferry connecting to Bowen Island. ==Get around== === By public transit === {{listing | name=TransLink | alt= | url=https://www.translink.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-604-953-3333 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=TransLink (British Columbia) | wikidata=Q1142140 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=The main public transit network in the [[Vancouver]] area, including: [[Bowen Island]], [[Burnaby]], [[Coquitlam]], [[Delta (British Columbia)|Delta]], [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]], [[Lions_Bay-Britannia_Beach|Lions Bay]], [[Maple Ridge]], [[New Westminster]], [[North Vancouver]], [[Port Coquitlam]], [[Pitt Meadows]], [[Port Moody]], [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]], [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], Vancouver, West Vancouver, and [[White Rock]]. Its network includes buses, SkyTrain (rail rapid transit), SeaBus (ferries), West Coast Express (commuter rail), and HandyDART (door-to-door shared-ride service for those who cannot ride public transit without assistance). }} Passengers can pay for fares using Compass Cards ($6 refundable deposit), Compass Tickets, or tap-to-pay using contactless credit cards (only American Express, Mastercard or Visa) or mobile wallets. Passengers using Compass Cards and Compass Tickets pay discounted fares. Passengers can transfer for up to 90 minutes, except if taking West Coast Express, in which case they can transfer for up to 120 minutes. On bus and HandyDART, passengers can also pay in cash, but in that case will not receive change and are not eligible for transfers. {{pbri}} Zone based fares apply between Monday and Friday for trips starting before 6:30 pm, if travel involves SkyTrain or SeaBus. Outside of those hours or for travel on only bus or HandyDART, a single zone rate applies. If traveling by West Coast Express, a higher cost zone based fare system applies regardless of time of travel. {{pbri}} Children 12 and under can ride for free. People aged 13 to 18, and 65 and older pay discounted concession fares. Travelling to/from [[North Vancouver]] costs {{translink|1}} for a standard adult fare (as of {{translink|faredate}}). Crossing the harbour means crossing a fare zone boundary so a ticket to/from [[Vancouver]], [[Burnaby]] or [[Richmond (British Columbia) | Richmond]] will cost {{translink|2}} and a ticket to/from [[Surrey (British Columbia) | Surrey]] will cost {{translink|3}}. ==== By bus ==== West Vancouver is served by the Blue Bus. It is one of two bus companies in the Greater Vancouver region operating under contract for TransLink, and transfer is free between the Blue Buses and other TransLink buses. The following are routes connecting West Vancouver with other communities: * R2 - Frequent limited stop rapid bus, between Park Royal Mall in West Vancouver and Phibbs Exchange in [[North Vancouver]] with a stop along the way at Londsdale Quay Exchange (adjacent to Lonsdale Quay SeaBus terminal) in North Vancouver * 250 - Between downtown [[Vancouver]] and Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal with a stop along the way at Park Royal Mall. In Vancouver, stops within a block of Burrard station (SkyTrain Expo Line), Granville station (SkyTrain Expo Line), Vancouver City Centre station (SkyTrain Canada Line). * 257 - Limited stop route between downtown [[Vancouver]] and Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal with a stop along the way at Park Royal Mall. In Vancouver, stops within a block of Burrard station (SkyTrain Expo Line), Granville station (SkyTrain Expo Line), Vancouver City Centre station (SkyTrain Canada Line). * 262 - travels between Caufeild and [[Lions Bay-Britannia Beach|Lions Bay]] with a stop at Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal. === By taxi === * {{Listing|name=North Shore Taxi|url=https://www.northshoretaxi.com/|phone=+1 604-987-7171|lastedit=2022-07-27}} === By water taxi === * {{Go|name=Cormorant Water Taxi|url=https://www.cormorantwatertaxi.com/|phone=+1 604-250-2630|lastedit=2023-05-31|content=Operates water taxi services including stopping at Horseshoe Bay. Services nearby islands including [[Bowen Island]]. Offers schedule services between Horseshoe Bay and Gambier Island.}} === By ride hailing === * {{Listing|name=Kabu|url=https://www.kabu.ca/|lastedit=2022-07-29}} * {{listing | name=Lyft | alt= | url=https://www.lyft.com/rider/cities/vancouver-bc | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lyft | wikidata=Q17077936 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/vancouver/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Uber | wikidata=Q780442 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} ==See== * [[File:Lighthouse Lighthouse Park.JPG|thumb|Lighthouse within Lighthouse Park]]{{see | name=Lighthouse Park | alt= | url=https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/lighthouse-park | email= | address=Beacon Lane | lat=49.3371 | long=-123.2627 | directions=follow Marine Dr west from Dundarave, turn left onto Beacon Lane and follow it to the park parking lot | phone=+1 604 925-7270 (for information about recreation programs and facility rentals) | tollfree= | hours=Open daily 6AM-10:30PM | price=Free | wikipedia=Lighthouse Park | wikidata=Q1824686 | content=Trails wind over and around huge glacial boulders and old-growth forest, some leading down to various beaches with views of Vancouver. The main trail from the parking are leads to the Point Atkinson lighthouse for which the park is named (entry not permitted though). There are picnic facilities (no fires permitted), bathrooms, and in season wildlife lectures. A great place for families with kids. You can take your dog, but he must be leashed between May and September to avoid disturbing seasonal wildlife. This is a popular hiking spot, so trails tend to be fairly busy. }} * {{see | name=Cypress Falls Park | alt= | url=https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/cypress-falls-park | email= | address=at the end of Woodgreen Pl | lat=49.3521 | long=-123.2409 | directions=take exit 4 from Hwy 1 and head east on Westport Dr; it becomes Woodgreen Dr, turn right shortly after at Woodgreen Pl | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Whytecliff Park | alt= | url=https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/whytecliff-park | email= | address=Marine Dr | lat=49.373 | long=-123.2909 | directions=7000 block of Marine Drive just west of Horseshoe Bay | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Whytecliff Park | wikidata=Q7997950 | content=Offers great natural views of the coast. There are some areas of pebble beach with some sand mixed in. }} ==Do== [[Image:Lions Gate Bridge West Vancouver.jpg|thumb|The Lions Gate Bridge viewed from Ambleside Park.]] [[Image:Cypress mtn.jpg|thumb|right|Cypress Mountain ski area]] * {{do | name=Ambleside Beach | alt= | url=https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/ambleside-park | email= | address=Argyle Ave, east of 13th St | lat=49.3241 | long=-123.1505 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ambleside Park - West Vancouver - panoramio.jpg | wikidata=Q4741533 | content=Probably the nicest sandy beach on the North Shore, though with lots of pebbles mixed in on much of the beach, unlike the almost fully sand beaches in Delta, Vancouver, and White Rock. It is a common place to come for a walk or to hang out on the beach. Has a nice view of Stanley Park and the Lions Gate Bridge. }} * {{do | name=Dundarave Beach | alt= | url=https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/ambleside-park | email= | address=foot of 25th St | lat=49.3328 | long=-123.1827 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A small pleasant beach on the west end of the sea wall. While there is sand on some of the more elevated parts of the beach, the portions closest to the water are most pebbles. The pier provides views of Stanley Park and the Lions Gate Bridge. It is a popular place to have a picnic in the summer. }} * {{do | name=Cypress Mountain | alt= | url=https://cypressmountain.com/ | email= | address=top of Cypress Bowl Rd | lat=49.3961 | long=-123.2037 | directions=exit 8 from Hwy 1 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Cypress is usually open from 9AM to 4PM throughout the season, with night skiing (closes at 10PM) starting in early/mid Dec and extending until March | price=''Full day Downhill tickets'' are $46 (adult), $39 (youth), $23 (seniors) and $20 (child). There is an extra premium over the Christmas period and discounts for evening (4PM) and night (7PM) skiing. ''Full day Cross country tickets'' are $17 (adult), $13 (youth), $11 (seniors) and $10 (child). Evening tickets (after 3PM) are discounted | wikidata=Q1137200 | content=The downhill area is spread across two mountains and has the largest vertical of the North Shore skifields with a good mix of beginner, intermediate and advanced runs. There is a cross-country and tubing area around Hollyburn Mountain. }} * {{do | name=West Vancouver Sea Wall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.3270 | long=-123.1624 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A mostly paved walkway along the ocean that runs between Ambleside Park and Dundarave Village. It's very popular in the summer and on nice weekends. }} ===Festivals=== * [https://www.cohosociety.com/coho-festival/ Coho Festival]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (September) ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Park Royal Shopping Centre | alt= | url=https://parkroyal.ca/ | email= | address=752 Marine Dr | lat=49.3253 | long=-123.1375 | directions=Marine Dr at Taylor Way | phone=+1 604-925-9576 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Park Royal Shopping Centre | wikidata=Q7137992 | content=Open every day. A major shopping mall on the north and south sides of Marine Drive with indoor and outdoor shopping sections and restaurants. Anchor tenants include: The Bay, London Drugs, Super Value, Sport Chek, Coast Mountain Sports, Linens & Things, Home Depot, Old Navy, Whole Foods. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=The Beach House | url=https://www.thebeachhouserestaurant.ca/ | email= | address=150 25th St | lat=49.3332 | long=-123.1822 | directions=at the Dundarave Pier in West Vancouver | phone = +1 604-922-1414 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Mains $30-40 |lastedit=2023-03-05| content=Another North Shore restaurant that specializes in seafood. The view of Vancouver harbour is fabulous. }} * {{eat | name=The Boathouse | url=https://www.boathouserestaurants.ca/ | email= | address=6695 Nelson Ave | lat=49.3761 | long=-123.2753 | directions=on the waterfront in Horseshoe Bay | phone = +1 604-921-8188 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Mains $15-40, appetizers $7-12 |lastedit=2023-03-05| content=Built out over the water in Horseshoe Bay, this restaurant has a large seafood selection including a variety of fresh fish, oysters and Atlantic lobsters. If fish isn't your thing, there are a number of steaks and a large wine menu. There is also an outdoor patio to enjoy the sunny days. }} * {{eat | name=Carmelo's | url=https://carmelos.ca/ | email= | address=1448 Marine Dr | lat=49.3279 | long=-123.1555 | directions=Ambleside | phone = +1 604-922-4719 | tollfree= | fax=+1 604-922-4613 | hours= | price=Mains $12-30, appetizers $6-15 |lastedit=2023-03-05| content=Serves a variety of pasta, meat and pizza dishes. }} * {{eat|name=Osaka Supermarket|url=https://www.tntsupermarket.com/|email=|address=2200 Park Royal South|lat=49.32499|long=-123.13770|directions=|phone=+1 778-279-8988|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2023-02-04|content=If you are looking for fresh food & grocery, it's a great place to shop! Lots of fresh selection for daily needs, great price & even live seafood! The hot food & sushi section is amazing!}} * {{eat | name=Zen Japanese Restaurant | alt= | url=https://zenjapanese.ca/ | email= | address=101-2232 Marine Dr | lat=49.3308 | long=-123.1721 | directions= | phone=+1 604-925-0667 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th noon-9:15PM, F-Sa noon-9:30PM, Su noon-9PM | price=Dinner $25-35/person | lastedit=2017-01-27 | content=A broad menu of Japanese food styles — sushi, sashimi, robata, plus fusion, and westcoast cuisine — executed with creativity and flair. Bright attractive dining room, with patio seating available on fine days. Lots of seafood, of course, but also a respectable choice of vegetarian dishes. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Square Rigger Pub | alt="The Rigger" ,"West Vancouver's dirty secret" | url=https://thesquareriggerpub.com/ | email=thesquareriggerpub@gmail.com | address=150-1425 Marine Dr | lat=49.32835 | long=-123.15501 | directions= | phone=+1-604-281-4648 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-midnight | price=$5-10 a drink depending on brand & size | lastedit=2017-01-12 | content=An almost secret locals hang out, it has a very warm and casual atmosphere. Billiards table, Foosball, darts, and ping-pong are available for entertainment. There are "pull tab" lottery machines, keno, & video black jack for the gambler in you. Bar tenders have great taste in music, and along with several TV's. }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Capilano R.V. Park | url=https://www.capilanoriverrvpark.com/ | email= | address=295 Tomahawk Ave | lat=49.3245 | long=-123.1318 | directions=from the Lions Gate Bridge, head east on Marine Drive, turn right onto Capilano Rd and follow the signs | phone=+1 604 987-4722 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= |lastedit=2023-03-05| content=Campground and RV park set between the Capilano River and the Lions Gate Bridge. It has a swimming pool, laundromat, showers, Internet connection and other amenities. }} * {{sleep | name=Horseshoe Bay Motel | url=http://horseshoebaymotel.ca | email= | address=6588 Royal Ave, Horseshoe Bay | lat=49.3733 | long=-123.2749 | directions= | phone=+1 604 921-7454 | tollfree=+1-877-717-3377 | fax= | hours= | price=$128-158 | checkin= | checkout= | content=23 rooms with a mix of one queen, one king and two queen-sized beds. Free wifi is available. Location is excellent if catching an early morning ferry to Vancouver Island or the Sunshine Coast. }} ==Connect== == Cope == === Newspaper === * {{listing|name=North Shore News|alt=|url=https://www.nsnews.com/|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+1 604-986-1337|tollfree=|hours=|price=Free|wikidata=Q55810122|lastedit=2023-03-29|content=Local paper that publishes once a week. A good source of information for local events and restaurants.}} === Hospital === The nearest hospital is in [[North Vancouver#Cope|North Vancouver]]. ==Go next== [[Vancouver Island]] is a 1 hr 35 min ferry ride away via '''BC Ferries''' and the '''Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal'''. Arriving in [[Nanaimo]], you can head down island to [[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]], the capital of British Columbia, or across the island to [[Tofino]], where you can go whale-watching, surf and storm-watch. Other ferry destinations from Horseshoe Bay are [[Bowen Island]] and the [[Sunshine Coast (British Columbia)|Sunshine Coast]]. Northward on '''Hwy 99''' takes you through the [[Sea to Sky]] region, which offers varied outdoor activities including hiking, swimming, rock climbing and camping. It also takes you to the resort area of [[Whistler]], with its nightlife, fine dining and a wide variety of activities that will keep you busy regardless of what season it is. {{routebox | image1=BC-1 (TCH).svg | imagesize1=22 | link1=Trans-Canada Highway | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]] | minorl1=[[Nanaimo]] ← {{rint|ferry}} | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Vancouver]] | minorr1=[[North Vancouver]] | image2=BC-99.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=&nbsp;N | majorl2=[[Whistler]] | minorl2=[[Lions Bay-Britannia Beach]] | directionr2=S | majorr2=[[Seattle]] | minorr2='''[[Vancouver]]''' | image3=BC-101.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=&nbsp;N | majorl3=[[Powell River]] | minorl3=[[Gibsons]] ← {{rint|ferry}} | directionr3=S | majorr3=END | minorr3= }} {{usablecity}} {{geo|49.33855|-123.19038|zoom=13}} {{IsPartOf|North Shore (British Columbia)}} pa1597dmix1dsd7k5uo6xnv65tlbd9a 0 39244 5289009 5207524 2026-06-07T06:47:50Z ~2026-33432-01 2419418 /* By taxi */ Added listing for White Rock Limo & Chauffeur Service 5289009 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|White Rock banner the white rock.jpg|caption=View from the White Rock Pier}} '''[https://www.whiterockcity.ca/ White Rock]''' is a small community in [[Vancouver southern suburbs|Vancouver's southern suburbs]] surrounded on three sides by the city of [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], and to the south by the waters of Boundary Bay. The city is named for the 400-ton white rock that sits on the beach in the town centre. Its beach has long made it a weekend getaway for Vancouverites. [[File:White Rock, BC - Coast Salish housepost and Haida totem pole 01.jpg|thumb|Coast Salish housepost and Haida totem pole]] Areas immediately adjacent, and as far west as Crescent Beach are sometimes incorrect referred to as being within White Rock, but are actually in [[Surrey (British Columbia)|South Surrey]]. ==Understand== {{climate chart |White Rock |2.2 |7.7 |160.5 |2.5 |9.2 |84.4 |4.1 |11.3 |113.0 |6.2 |14.1 |76.7 |9.2 |17.4 |65.8 |11.8 |19.7 |47.6 |13.6 |22.1 |32.0 |13.6 |22.1 |31.4 |11.1 |19.4 |63.2 |7.5 |14.5 |124.7 |4.3 |10.3 |157.6 |2.0 |7.3 |141.9 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:White Rock, British Columbia]], weatherstats.ca |description= }} ==Get in== See [[Vancouver]] for options to get in the Vancouver area by plane, by bus, and by train, and by boat. White Rock is just off of '''Highway 99''', about 45 minutes south of downtown [[Vancouver]] by car. If you're in [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], take 152 St south. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|49.0242|-122.8124|zoom=13}} {{Mapshape|wikidata=Q629056|type=geomask}} White Rock town centre (Marine Drive along the beach) is at sea level, while the rest of the town is perched on a bench several hundred feet above. The town center is walkable but it is steep if you want to see other parts of the city. The broader area — usually referred to as South Surrey but often referred to as White Rock — is quite large and will require a car to get to some areas. [http://www.translink.bc.ca Translink] operates bus service for all of Greater Vancouver. In White Rock and South Surrey most local buses are community shuttles. Most tourist areas of South Surrey are accessible by Translink. ===By car === ==== Parking ==== Most parking in White Rock is pay parking. The cost fluctuates but it is most expensive off Marine Drive by the beach ($3.75 per hour in high season). The new pay-by-space system makes buying or adding time simple. Just enter your space number on any nearby dispenser, pay, take your receipt and walk away. There's no need to return to your vehicle or place your ticket on your vehicle's dash. If you want to add time later, just enter your stall number (printed on your receipt) at any one of 36 dispensers along the beach and choose your payment method. You can even pay by cell phone. (Requires registration with Verrus Mobile Technologies Inc. You'll must use a credit card the first time you call. Nominal user fees apply.) Details at [https://www.whiterockcity.ca/328/Parking the city's ''Parking'' page]. === By public transit === {{listing | name=TransLink | alt= | url=https://www.translink.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-604-953-3333 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=TransLink (British Columbia) | wikidata=Q1142140 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=The main public transit network in the [[Vancouver]] area, including: [[Bowen Island]], [[Burnaby]], [[Coquitlam]], [[Delta (British Columbia)|Delta]], [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]], [[Lions_Bay-Britannia_Beach|Lions Bay]], [[Maple Ridge]], [[New Westminster]], [[North Vancouver]], [[Port Coquitlam]], [[Pitt Meadows]], [[Port Moody]], [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]], [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], Vancouver, [[West Vancouver]], and White Rock. Its network includes buses, SkyTrain (rail rapid transit), SeaBus (ferries), West Coast Express (commuter rail), and HandyDART (door-to-door shared-ride service for those who cannot ride public transit without assistance). }} Passengers can pay for fares using Compass Cards ($6 refundable deposit), Compass Tickets, or tap-to-pay using contactless credit cards (only American Express, Mastercard or Visa) or mobile wallets. Passengers using Compass Cards and Compass Tickets pay discounted fares. Passengers can transfer for up to 90 minutes, except if taking West Coast Express, in which case they can transfer for up to 120 minutes. On bus and HandyDART, passengers can also pay in cash, but in that case will not receive change and are not eligible for transfers. {{pbri}} Zone based fares apply between Monday and Friday for trips starting before 6:30 pm, if travel involves SkyTrain or SeaBus. Outside of those hours or for travel on only bus or HandyDART, a single zone rate applies. If traveling by West Coast Express, a higher cost zone based fare system applies regardless of time of travel. {{pbri}} Children 12 and under can ride for free. People aged 13 to 18, and 65 and older pay discounted concession fares. Standard adult transit fares (effective {{translink|faredate}}) to White Rock from Vancouver are {{translink|3}} on weekdays and {{translink|1}} on weekends and evenings after 6:30PM. Fares from elsewhere in the Vancouver region will vary between {{translink|1}}-{{translink|3}}. ==== By bus ==== {{Marker|type=go|name=White Rock Centre|lat=49.031147|long=-122.801179}} is TransLink's nearest bus hub to White Rock, though it is actually partially in White Rock and partially in South Surrey. Notable bus routes stopping at White Rock Centre include the following, which operate daily unless otherwise noted: * 321 - Between White Rock Centre and Surrey Central station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]]. * 351 - Express service between White Rock Centre and Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]]. * 345 - Between White Rock Centre and King George Station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in Surrey. * 360 - Between White Rock Centre and the portion of Marine Dr near White Rock Pier. This is the most direct route to reach White Rock Pier. * 361 - Between White Rock Centre and Marine Dr, including near White Rock Pier. * 375 - Between Guildford Exchange in Surrey and South Surrey via White Rock Centre. * 531 - Between White Rock Centre and Langley Exchange in [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]]. === By taxi === * {{Listing|name=Pacific Cabs|url=https://pacificcabs.com/|phone=+1 604-596-6666|lastedit=2022-02-28}} * {{go | name=White Rock Limo & Chauffeur Service | alt= | url=https://www.signaturecarservice.ca/white-rock-limo-chauffeur-service/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 778-651-7711 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-07 | content= }} === By ride hailing === * {{Listing|name=Kabu|url=https://www.kabu.ca/|lastedit=2022-07-29}} * {{listing | name=Lyft | alt= | url=https://www.lyft.com/rider/cities/vancouver-bc | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lyft | wikidata=Q17077936 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/vancouver/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Uber | wikidata=Q780442 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} ==See== * {{see | name=The White Rock | alt= | url= | email= | address=White Rock Promenade | lat=49.01988 | long=-122.802480 | directions=about 100 m south-east of the White Rock Pier | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free | content=The town's namesake is on the beach near the White Rock Pier. The rock was named for the large quantity of bird guano that covered it, but today is kept white by regular coats of white paint. }} * {{see | name=White Rock Museum and Archives | alt= | url=http://www.whiterock.museum.bc.ca | email= | address=14970 Marine Dr | lat=49.021785 | long=-122.807523 | directions= | phone=+1 604 541-2222 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 10:30AM-5PM; Sa Su 11AM-5PM; holidays noon-5PM | price=$3/$5 (students & seniors/adult). Children under 12, and Museum members, are free | wikidata=Q106029286 | content=A small museum in the old train station. It has displays on the city's history and a re-creation of the station's office. }} ==Do== [[File:White rock pier 2012.jpg|thumb|300px|right|White Rock Pier]] ===The Beach=== * {{do | name=White Rock Beach | alt= | url=https://whiterockbeach.ca/about/ | email= | address=Parallel to Marine Drive | lat=49.024724 | long=-122.817766 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q113990319 | content=A sandy beach, especially toward low tide. The big white rock, that gives the community its name, is on the beach near the pier on Semiahmoo Bay between Blaine in Washington State and White Rock. Nineteenth-century sailors used this rock as a beacon. The White Rock is visible while entering customs coming into Canada from across the bay. Some people claim to have had luck on the lottery by rubbing their tickets on the 486-tonne boulder resting on the beach. White Rock Beach is the waterfront area of the City of White Rock in the southwest corner of the lower mainland of British Columbia, bordering Washington State. }} * {{do | name=White Rock Promenade | alt= | url=https://www.whiterockcity.ca/401/Pier-Promenade-Information | email= | address=Parallel to Marine Drive between Bay Street and Finlay Street | lat=49.024724 | long=-122.817766 | directions=north-west end is at Bay Street and Marine Drive | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | content= }} * {{do | name=White Rock Promenade, south-east (Finlay Street) end | alt= | url=https://www.whiterockcity.ca/401/Pier-Promenade-Information | email= | address=Marine Drive and Finlay Street | lat=49.016598 | long=-122.790166 | directions=at the western tip of Semiahmoo Park | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | content= }} White Rock has the largest and one of the most popular beaches in the [[Lower Mainland]], located on the southern edge of the city alongside Marine Drive. The long sandy beach is perfect for everything from picnics to a game of frisbee. When the tide goes out there are many tidal pools that are left exposed and is a great place to see marine life up close. [[British Columbia|British Columbia's]] south coast is sheltered by [[Vancouver Island]], because of this the water temperatures are relatively warm. If you don't want to walk in the sand, the White Rock Promenade stretches for 2.2 km (1.4 miles) next to Marine Drive. The White Rock Promenade can be a pleasant dinnertime walk, especially at sunset, ideally with a low tide. Find a parking spot to the west part of Marine Drive, say near Bay St or Oxford Street. Walk eastwards down the beach. When you reach the pier, walk to end of it and back. Continue eastwards until the beachfront strip ends, at Finlay Street where Semiahmoo Park begins. There, you've done the nature/ocean thing. Now, cross Marine Drive. Walk back along the long line of restaurants, and get an idea from the vibe and the menus out front if you like them. Pick one for dinner, or make a reservation for later. ===The Pier=== * {{do | name=White Rock Pier | alt= | url=https://www.whiterockcity.ca/401/Pier-Promenade-Information | email= | address=15044 Marine Dr | lat=49.020946 | long=-122.805704 | directions=Opposite Dolce Gelato | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikipedia=White Rock Pier | wikidata=Q65067055 |lastedit=2023-07-26| content=A pier that juts out nearly 500 meters from the shore. It is a popular place for a walk. During the summer some locals jump off the end of the pier, although this practice is discouraged and diving can be dangerous. }} ==Buy== * {{see | name=The White Rock Beach Gallery | alt= | url=https://whiterockbeachgallery.com/waterfront-promenade-gallery-artist-walk-outside-weather-permitting/ | email= | address=14970 Marine Dr | lat=49.021785 | long=-122.807523 | directions=Waterfront promenade, just west of the White Rock Museum | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-F 10:30AM-4PM; Sa Su 10AM-5PM; holidays 10AM-5PM | price= | content=White Rock, South Surrey, and wildlife of Canada postcards and greeting cards. }} ==Eat== Restaurants in White Rock are split between those on the beach, usually offering patios and ocean views, typically on Marine Drive; and restaurants in the main commercial area away from the water. Restaurants in the Crescent Beach area (formally part of [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], but commonly grouped with White Rock) are mostly clustered on Bleecher Street near Blackie Spit, with a few near 128 St and 16th Ave. ===On the beach=== Marine Drive is packed with restaurants, from standards like fish and chips to ethnic restaurants to pub * {{eat | name=Maya’s Ice Cream | alt= | url= | email= | address=15045 Marine Dr. | lat=49.021386 | long=-122.805621 | directions= | phone=+1-604 535-1070 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Hours "unpredictable" | price=Price "not cheap, but worth it" |lastedit=2024-04-13| content=Highly regarded for delicious and authentic gelato in a wide range of flavours. Cash only. }} * {{eat | name=Uli's Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.ulisrestaurant.com/ | email= | address=15021 Marine Dr | lat=49.021488 | long=-122.805938 | directions= | phone=+1 604 538-9373 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM-10PM (Brunch Sa Su 10AM-4PM) | price=entrees $15-27 | content=On the beach for over 30 years, the euro-inspired cuisine features local ingredients and creative wine and beer pairings. Minimal vegetarian and gluten free options. }} * {{eat | name=Washington Avenue Grill | url=http://www.washingtonavenuegrill.com/ | email=info@washingtonavenuegrill.com | address=#5 - 15782 Marine Dr | lat=49.016274 | long=-122.785394 | directions=Between Kent and Parker Streets, south side. | phone=+1 604-541-4244 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM-4PM, 5PM-close | price=lunch set menu $16-26, dinner set menu $30-40 | content=The upstairs dining room overlooks the bay. The seafood and gastropub fare is skillfully done and well served. Plentiful vegetarian options. Live music, W-Sa, is invigorating or a din, depending on your taste. }} ===Off the beach=== The "five corners" intersection in the main commercial district, just up the bluff from the beach, anchors the restaurant area. Many more restaurants are along or near Johnston Street as it heads north. * {{eat | name=Dining Wok Shanghai Restaurant | url=http://diningwok.weebly.com/ | email= | address=15246 Russell Ave | lat=49.029234 | long=-122.799994 | directions=at George St. | phone=+1 604 531-6671 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M W-F 11:30AM-2:30PM, 4PM-9PM; Sa noon-2:30PM, 4PM-9PM; Su 4PM-9PM; Tu closed | price=Main dishes $10-15, some $20 | content=Sichuan, Shanghai, and Peking cuisine. Group menu available. }} * {{eat | name=Leela Thai | url=http://www.leelathairestaurant.com | email= | address=1558 George St | lat=| long=- | directions= | phone=+1 604 541-9631 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Lunch: M-F noon-2:30PM, Dinner: daily 5PM-10PM | price=$10-15 per dish | content=A variety of chicken, pork, seafood and vegetarian Thai dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Penang Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.penangszechuan.com/whiterockmenu.html | email= | address=15228 Russell Avenue | lat=49.029237 | long=-122.800627 | directions= | phone=+1-604-538-1700 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 11:30AM-2:30PM, 4:30-9PM; Sa 4:30-9PM; Su, hols closed | price=entrees $9-15 | content=Szechuan, Malaysian, and Indonesian cuisine. Takeout available. }} * {{eat | name=Taka's Take-out Sushi | alt= | url=http://www.taka.ca/ | email= | address= 15214 Pacific | lat=49.023504 | long=-122.800621 | directions= | phone=+1-604-538-8587 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 11:30AM-"late"; M closed | price=Sashimi $10-17/5pc. Nigiri $2-$4/pc. Maki $3-13/roll. Lunch menu $9-14 | content=An unassuming but highly-regarded sushi restaurant. In addition to the usual sashimi, nigiri, maki, and appetisers, they offer "aburi" (flame-seared) sushi and "wagyu" (Japanese beef). }} ==Drink== Due to White Rock's location just minutes from the Canada/USA border, it is a common place for Americans (especially those under 21) to drink. * {{Drink|name=The Ocean Beach|url=https://www.oceanbeachwr.ca/|address=14995 Marine Dr|lat=49.02176|long=-122.80680|lastedit=2022-08-14}} ==Sleep== * {{Sleep|name=Ocean Promenade Hotel|url=https://oceanpromenadehotel.com/|email=info@oceanpromenadehotel.com|address=15611 Marine Dr|lat=49.01691|long=-122.78993|tollfree=+1 888-976-2326|lastedit=2023-06-04|content=Across the street from a beach.}} == Stay safe == If you are visiting the White Rock's beach or pier, pay attention for trains while crossing the tracks and do not walk or jog along the tracks. A number of people, especially people distracted by wearing headphones, have walked or jogged on or over the busy tracks without paying attention for trains and have died due to being run over by trains. == Cope == === Newspaper === * {{listing | name=Peace Arch News | alt= | url=https://www.peacearchnews.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 604-531-1711 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Peace Arch News | wikidata=Q7157316 | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content= }} === Hospital === * {{listing | name=Peace Arch Hospital | alt= | url=https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Locations/White-Rock/peace-arch-hospital | email= | address=15521 Russell Ave | lat=49.03036 | long=-122.79231 | directions= | phone=+1 604-531-5512 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Peace Arch Hospital | wikidata=Q7157315 | lastedit=2023-03-29 | content=Hospital with an emergency department operating 24/7. }} ==Go next== [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]], with its historic fishing village and Buddhist temple, is 20-30 minutes north on Highway 99. Going south on Hwy 99 will bring you to the U.S. border, with [[Seattle]] being a couple of hours south. The [[Fraser Valley]], with gardens, outdoor recreation and wineries is to the east. {{routebox | image1=BC-blank.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N/E | majorl1=[[Vancouver]] via [[File:BC-99.svg|18px|link=]] | minorl1=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | directionr1=S/W | majorr1=END | minorr1= }} {{IsPartOf|Vancouver southern suburbs}} {{usablecity}} {{geo|49.0209|-122.8037|zoom=14}} 8ryqezwq4quer6wnmfe5i385iu9gjx4 5289032 5289009 2026-06-07T10:20:35Z Ikan Kekek 36420 Deleted per [[wv:dt]]. Undid revision [[Special:Diff/5289009|5289009]] by [[Special:Contributions/~2026-33432-01|~2026-33432-01]] ([[User talk:~2026-33432-01|talk]]) 5289032 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|White Rock banner the white rock.jpg|caption=View from the White Rock Pier}} '''[https://www.whiterockcity.ca/ White Rock]''' is a small community in [[Vancouver southern suburbs|Vancouver's southern suburbs]] surrounded on three sides by the city of [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], and to the south by the waters of Boundary Bay. The city is named for the 400-ton white rock that sits on the beach in the town centre. Its beach has long made it a weekend getaway for Vancouverites. [[File:White Rock, BC - Coast Salish housepost and Haida totem pole 01.jpg|thumb|Coast Salish housepost and Haida totem pole]] Areas immediately adjacent, and as far west as Crescent Beach are sometimes incorrect referred to as being within White Rock, but are actually in [[Surrey (British Columbia)|South Surrey]]. ==Understand== {{climate chart |White Rock |2.2 |7.7 |160.5 |2.5 |9.2 |84.4 |4.1 |11.3 |113.0 |6.2 |14.1 |76.7 |9.2 |17.4 |65.8 |11.8 |19.7 |47.6 |13.6 |22.1 |32.0 |13.6 |22.1 |31.4 |11.1 |19.4 |63.2 |7.5 |14.5 |124.7 |4.3 |10.3 |157.6 |2.0 |7.3 |141.9 |float=right |clear=right |source=[[:w:White Rock, British Columbia]], weatherstats.ca |description= }} ==Get in== See [[Vancouver]] for options to get in the Vancouver area by plane, by bus, and by train, and by boat. White Rock is just off of '''Highway 99''', about 45 minutes south of downtown [[Vancouver]] by car. If you're in [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], take 152 St south. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|49.0242|-122.8124|zoom=13}} {{Mapshape|wikidata=Q629056|type=geomask}} White Rock town centre (Marine Drive along the beach) is at sea level, while the rest of the town is perched on a bench several hundred feet above. The town center is walkable but it is steep if you want to see other parts of the city. The broader area — usually referred to as South Surrey but often referred to as White Rock — is quite large and will require a car to get to some areas. [http://www.translink.bc.ca Translink] operates bus service for all of Greater Vancouver. In White Rock and South Surrey most local buses are community shuttles. Most tourist areas of South Surrey are accessible by Translink. ===By car === ==== Parking ==== Most parking in White Rock is pay parking. The cost fluctuates but it is most expensive off Marine Drive by the beach ($3.75 per hour in high season). The new pay-by-space system makes buying or adding time simple. Just enter your space number on any nearby dispenser, pay, take your receipt and walk away. There's no need to return to your vehicle or place your ticket on your vehicle's dash. If you want to add time later, just enter your stall number (printed on your receipt) at any one of 36 dispensers along the beach and choose your payment method. You can even pay by cell phone. (Requires registration with Verrus Mobile Technologies Inc. You'll must use a credit card the first time you call. Nominal user fees apply.) Details at [https://www.whiterockcity.ca/328/Parking the city's ''Parking'' page]. === By public transit === {{listing | name=TransLink | alt= | url=https://www.translink.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-604-953-3333 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=TransLink (British Columbia) | wikidata=Q1142140 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=The main public transit network in the [[Vancouver]] area, including: [[Bowen Island]], [[Burnaby]], [[Coquitlam]], [[Delta (British Columbia)|Delta]], [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]], [[Lions_Bay-Britannia_Beach|Lions Bay]], [[Maple Ridge]], [[New Westminster]], [[North Vancouver]], [[Port Coquitlam]], [[Pitt Meadows]], [[Port Moody]], [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]], [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], Vancouver, [[West Vancouver]], and White Rock. Its network includes buses, SkyTrain (rail rapid transit), SeaBus (ferries), West Coast Express (commuter rail), and HandyDART (door-to-door shared-ride service for those who cannot ride public transit without assistance). }} Passengers can pay for fares using Compass Cards ($6 refundable deposit), Compass Tickets, or tap-to-pay using contactless credit cards (only American Express, Mastercard or Visa) or mobile wallets. Passengers using Compass Cards and Compass Tickets pay discounted fares. Passengers can transfer for up to 90 minutes, except if taking West Coast Express, in which case they can transfer for up to 120 minutes. On bus and HandyDART, passengers can also pay in cash, but in that case will not receive change and are not eligible for transfers. {{pbri}} Zone based fares apply between Monday and Friday for trips starting before 6:30 pm, if travel involves SkyTrain or SeaBus. Outside of those hours or for travel on only bus or HandyDART, a single zone rate applies. If traveling by West Coast Express, a higher cost zone based fare system applies regardless of time of travel. {{pbri}} Children 12 and under can ride for free. People aged 13 to 18, and 65 and older pay discounted concession fares. Standard adult transit fares (effective {{translink|faredate}}) to White Rock from Vancouver are {{translink|3}} on weekdays and {{translink|1}} on weekends and evenings after 6:30PM. Fares from elsewhere in the Vancouver region will vary between {{translink|1}}-{{translink|3}}. ==== By bus ==== {{Marker|type=go|name=White Rock Centre|lat=49.031147|long=-122.801179}} is TransLink's nearest bus hub to White Rock, though it is actually partially in White Rock and partially in South Surrey. Notable bus routes stopping at White Rock Centre include the following, which operate daily unless otherwise noted: * 321 - Between White Rock Centre and Surrey Central station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]]. * 351 - Express service between White Rock Centre and Bridgeport station (SkyTrain Canada Line) in [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]]. * 345 - Between White Rock Centre and King George Station (SkyTrain Expo Line) in Surrey. * 360 - Between White Rock Centre and the portion of Marine Dr near White Rock Pier. This is the most direct route to reach White Rock Pier. * 361 - Between White Rock Centre and Marine Dr, including near White Rock Pier. * 375 - Between Guildford Exchange in Surrey and South Surrey via White Rock Centre. * 531 - Between White Rock Centre and Langley Exchange in [[Langley (British Columbia)|Langley]]. === By taxi === * {{Listing|name=Pacific Cabs|url=https://pacificcabs.com/|phone=+1 604-596-6666|lastedit=2022-02-28}} === By ride hailing === * {{Listing|name=Kabu|url=https://www.kabu.ca/|lastedit=2022-07-29}} * {{listing | name=Lyft | alt= | url=https://www.lyft.com/rider/cities/vancouver-bc | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lyft | wikidata=Q17077936 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/vancouver/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Uber | wikidata=Q780442 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content= }} ==See== * {{see | name=The White Rock | alt= | url= | email= | address=White Rock Promenade | lat=49.01988 | long=-122.802480 | directions=about 100 m south-east of the White Rock Pier | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free | content=The town's namesake is on the beach near the White Rock Pier. The rock was named for the large quantity of bird guano that covered it, but today is kept white by regular coats of white paint. }} * {{see | name=White Rock Museum and Archives | alt= | url=http://www.whiterock.museum.bc.ca | email= | address=14970 Marine Dr | lat=49.021785 | long=-122.807523 | directions= | phone=+1 604 541-2222 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 10:30AM-5PM; Sa Su 11AM-5PM; holidays noon-5PM | price=$3/$5 (students & seniors/adult). Children under 12, and Museum members, are free | wikidata=Q106029286 | content=A small museum in the old train station. It has displays on the city's history and a re-creation of the station's office. }} ==Do== [[File:White rock pier 2012.jpg|thumb|300px|right|White Rock Pier]] ===The Beach=== * {{do | name=White Rock Beach | alt= | url=https://whiterockbeach.ca/about/ | email= | address=Parallel to Marine Drive | lat=49.024724 | long=-122.817766 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q113990319 | content=A sandy beach, especially toward low tide. The big white rock, that gives the community its name, is on the beach near the pier on Semiahmoo Bay between Blaine in Washington State and White Rock. Nineteenth-century sailors used this rock as a beacon. The White Rock is visible while entering customs coming into Canada from across the bay. Some people claim to have had luck on the lottery by rubbing their tickets on the 486-tonne boulder resting on the beach. White Rock Beach is the waterfront area of the City of White Rock in the southwest corner of the lower mainland of British Columbia, bordering Washington State. }} * {{do | name=White Rock Promenade | alt= | url=https://www.whiterockcity.ca/401/Pier-Promenade-Information | email= | address=Parallel to Marine Drive between Bay Street and Finlay Street | lat=49.024724 | long=-122.817766 | directions=north-west end is at Bay Street and Marine Drive | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | content= }} * {{do | name=White Rock Promenade, south-east (Finlay Street) end | alt= | url=https://www.whiterockcity.ca/401/Pier-Promenade-Information | email= | address=Marine Drive and Finlay Street | lat=49.016598 | long=-122.790166 | directions=at the western tip of Semiahmoo Park | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | content= }} White Rock has the largest and one of the most popular beaches in the [[Lower Mainland]], located on the southern edge of the city alongside Marine Drive. The long sandy beach is perfect for everything from picnics to a game of frisbee. When the tide goes out there are many tidal pools that are left exposed and is a great place to see marine life up close. [[British Columbia|British Columbia's]] south coast is sheltered by [[Vancouver Island]], because of this the water temperatures are relatively warm. If you don't want to walk in the sand, the White Rock Promenade stretches for 2.2 km (1.4 miles) next to Marine Drive. The White Rock Promenade can be a pleasant dinnertime walk, especially at sunset, ideally with a low tide. Find a parking spot to the west part of Marine Drive, say near Bay St or Oxford Street. Walk eastwards down the beach. When you reach the pier, walk to end of it and back. Continue eastwards until the beachfront strip ends, at Finlay Street where Semiahmoo Park begins. There, you've done the nature/ocean thing. Now, cross Marine Drive. Walk back along the long line of restaurants, and get an idea from the vibe and the menus out front if you like them. Pick one for dinner, or make a reservation for later. ===The Pier=== * {{do | name=White Rock Pier | alt= | url=https://www.whiterockcity.ca/401/Pier-Promenade-Information | email= | address=15044 Marine Dr | lat=49.020946 | long=-122.805704 | directions=Opposite Dolce Gelato | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikipedia=White Rock Pier | wikidata=Q65067055 |lastedit=2023-07-26| content=A pier that juts out nearly 500 meters from the shore. It is a popular place for a walk. During the summer some locals jump off the end of the pier, although this practice is discouraged and diving can be dangerous. }} ==Buy== * {{see | name=The White Rock Beach Gallery | alt= | url=https://whiterockbeachgallery.com/waterfront-promenade-gallery-artist-walk-outside-weather-permitting/ | email= | address=14970 Marine Dr | lat=49.021785 | long=-122.807523 | directions=Waterfront promenade, just west of the White Rock Museum | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-F 10:30AM-4PM; Sa Su 10AM-5PM; holidays 10AM-5PM | price= | content=White Rock, South Surrey, and wildlife of Canada postcards and greeting cards. }} ==Eat== Restaurants in White Rock are split between those on the beach, usually offering patios and ocean views, typically on Marine Drive; and restaurants in the main commercial area away from the water. Restaurants in the Crescent Beach area (formally part of [[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]], but commonly grouped with White Rock) are mostly clustered on Bleecher Street near Blackie Spit, with a few near 128 St and 16th Ave. ===On the beach=== Marine Drive is packed with restaurants, from standards like fish and chips to ethnic restaurants to pub * {{eat | name=Maya’s Ice Cream | alt= | url= | email= | address=15045 Marine Dr. | lat=49.021386 | long=-122.805621 | directions= | phone=+1-604 535-1070 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Hours "unpredictable" | price=Price "not cheap, but worth it" |lastedit=2024-04-13| content=Highly regarded for delicious and authentic gelato in a wide range of flavours. Cash only. }} * {{eat | name=Uli's Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.ulisrestaurant.com/ | email= | address=15021 Marine Dr | lat=49.021488 | long=-122.805938 | directions= | phone=+1 604 538-9373 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM-10PM (Brunch Sa Su 10AM-4PM) | price=entrees $15-27 | content=On the beach for over 30 years, the euro-inspired cuisine features local ingredients and creative wine and beer pairings. Minimal vegetarian and gluten free options. }} * {{eat | name=Washington Avenue Grill | url=http://www.washingtonavenuegrill.com/ | email=info@washingtonavenuegrill.com | address=#5 - 15782 Marine Dr | lat=49.016274 | long=-122.785394 | directions=Between Kent and Parker Streets, south side. | phone=+1 604-541-4244 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM-4PM, 5PM-close | price=lunch set menu $16-26, dinner set menu $30-40 | content=The upstairs dining room overlooks the bay. The seafood and gastropub fare is skillfully done and well served. Plentiful vegetarian options. Live music, W-Sa, is invigorating or a din, depending on your taste. }} ===Off the beach=== The "five corners" intersection in the main commercial district, just up the bluff from the beach, anchors the restaurant area. Many more restaurants are along or near Johnston Street as it heads north. * {{eat | name=Dining Wok Shanghai Restaurant | url=http://diningwok.weebly.com/ | email= | address=15246 Russell Ave | lat=49.029234 | long=-122.799994 | directions=at George St. | phone=+1 604 531-6671 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M W-F 11:30AM-2:30PM, 4PM-9PM; Sa noon-2:30PM, 4PM-9PM; Su 4PM-9PM; Tu closed | price=Main dishes $10-15, some $20 | content=Sichuan, Shanghai, and Peking cuisine. Group menu available. }} * {{eat | name=Leela Thai | url=http://www.leelathairestaurant.com | email= | address=1558 George St | lat=| long=- | directions= | phone=+1 604 541-9631 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Lunch: M-F noon-2:30PM, Dinner: daily 5PM-10PM | price=$10-15 per dish | content=A variety of chicken, pork, seafood and vegetarian Thai dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Penang Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.penangszechuan.com/whiterockmenu.html | email= | address=15228 Russell Avenue | lat=49.029237 | long=-122.800627 | directions= | phone=+1-604-538-1700 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 11:30AM-2:30PM, 4:30-9PM; Sa 4:30-9PM; Su, hols closed | price=entrees $9-15 | content=Szechuan, Malaysian, and Indonesian cuisine. Takeout available. }} * {{eat | name=Taka's Take-out Sushi | alt= | url=http://www.taka.ca/ | email= | address= 15214 Pacific | lat=49.023504 | long=-122.800621 | directions= | phone=+1-604-538-8587 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 11:30AM-"late"; M closed | price=Sashimi $10-17/5pc. Nigiri $2-$4/pc. Maki $3-13/roll. Lunch menu $9-14 | content=An unassuming but highly-regarded sushi restaurant. In addition to the usual sashimi, nigiri, maki, and appetisers, they offer "aburi" (flame-seared) sushi and "wagyu" (Japanese beef). }} ==Drink== Due to White Rock's location just minutes from the Canada/USA border, it is a common place for Americans (especially those under 21) to drink. * {{Drink|name=The Ocean Beach|url=https://www.oceanbeachwr.ca/|address=14995 Marine Dr|lat=49.02176|long=-122.80680|lastedit=2022-08-14}} ==Sleep== * {{Sleep|name=Ocean Promenade Hotel|url=https://oceanpromenadehotel.com/|email=info@oceanpromenadehotel.com|address=15611 Marine Dr|lat=49.01691|long=-122.78993|tollfree=+1 888-976-2326|lastedit=2023-06-04|content=Across the street from a beach.}} == Stay safe == If you are visiting the White Rock's beach or pier, pay attention for trains while crossing the tracks and do not walk or jog along the tracks. A number of people, especially people distracted by wearing headphones, have walked or jogged on or over the busy tracks without paying attention for trains and have died due to being run over by trains. == Cope == === Newspaper === * {{listing | name=Peace Arch News | alt= | url=https://www.peacearchnews.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 604-531-1711 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Peace Arch News | wikidata=Q7157316 | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content= }} === Hospital === * {{listing | name=Peace Arch Hospital | alt= | url=https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Locations/White-Rock/peace-arch-hospital | email= | address=15521 Russell Ave | lat=49.03036 | long=-122.79231 | directions= | phone=+1 604-531-5512 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Peace Arch Hospital | wikidata=Q7157315 | lastedit=2023-03-29 | content=Hospital with an emergency department operating 24/7. }} ==Go next== [[Richmond (British Columbia)|Richmond]], with its historic fishing village and Buddhist temple, is 20-30 minutes north on Highway 99. Going south on Hwy 99 will bring you to the U.S. border, with [[Seattle]] being a couple of hours south. The [[Fraser Valley]], with gardens, outdoor recreation and wineries is to the east. {{routebox | image1=BC-blank.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N/E | majorl1=[[Vancouver]] via [[File:BC-99.svg|18px|link=]] | minorl1=[[Surrey (British Columbia)|Surrey]] | directionr1=S/W | majorr1=END | minorr1= }} {{IsPartOf|Vancouver southern suburbs}} {{usablecity}} {{geo|49.0209|-122.8037|zoom=14}} s44ydnfyaz9my5xm0mgsxmxrmmbgtku 0 40365 5289016 5288755 2026-06-07T08:21:38Z Brycehughes 43226 /* Do */ fix 5289016 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Zhangye Qicai Danxia banner.jpg|unesco_gg=yes}} '''Zhangye''' (张掖; ''Zhāngyè'') is a city in [[Gansu]] Province with striking mountain scenery nearby. ==Understand== Zhangye became the garrison headquarters after General Huo established control of the Hexi Corridor. Formerly known as Ganzhou, the town was part of the Western Xia dynasty until it was conquered by Kublai Khan in 1227. Zhangye has a population of around 1.2 million (2010), of whom 260,000 are urban residents. In addition to Han Chinese, the city is also home to members of the minority Yugu people, who live only in Gansu. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Zhangye Ganzhou Airport | alt=张掖甘州机场, {{IATA|YZY}} | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.8118 | long=100.6579 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Zhangye_Ganzhou_Airport | wikidata=Q81362 | lastedit=2026-06-04 | content=Opened in 2011, this airport 13 km south of the city has flights to/from [[Xi'an]], [[Lanzhou]], [[Shanghai]], [[Beijing]], [[Chengdu]], [[Chongqing]], [[Urumqi]] and a few other domestic airports. However, many of these flights make stops en route, operate only on specific days, and do not operate over the winter. }} Zhangye has frequent high-speed rail connections from Lanzhou via Xining, both of which have much larger airports than Zhangye's. These airports are likely to be more convenient for many visitors. ===By train=== * {{go | name=Zhangye West Railway Station | alt=张掖西站 | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.9226 | long=100.4263 | directions=in the southwest of town | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Zhangye_West_railway_station | wikidata=Q19852528 | lastedit= | content=This high-speed station has D-train service to destinations such as [[Urumqi]] (8.5-9.5 hr), [[Xining]] (2 hr), [[Lanzhou]] (3-3.5 hr), and [[Xi'an]] (6.5-7 hr). }} [[File:Zhangye Railway Station 1.JPG|thumbnail|Zhangye Railway Station]] * {{go | name=Zhangye Station | alt=张掖站 | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.9733 | long=100.5177 | directions=6.5 km northeast of the city center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Zhangye_railway_station | wikidata=Q8070487 | lastedit= | content=Slower conventional trains use this station daily to destinations as far off as [[Beijing]], [[Chongqing]], [[Chengdu]], [[Urumqi]] and [[Lanzhou]]. }} ===By bus=== * {{go | name=Zhangye Bus Station | alt=张掖汽车站, West Bus Station | url= | email= | address=381 West Ring Road, Ganzhou District (甘州区西环路381号) | lat=38.9372 | long=100.4418 | directions= | phone=+86 936-8215022 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2026-06-03 | content= }} * {{go | name=Zhangye East Bus Station | alt=张掖汽车东站 | url= | email= | address=122 East Ring Road (东环路122号) | lat=38.9353 | long=100.4684 | directions= | phone=+86 936-8214073 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{go | name=Zhangye South Bus Station | alt=张掖汽车南站 | url= | email= | address=478 South Ring Road (南环路478号) | lat=38.9267 | long=100.4544 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} ==Get around== {{mapframe|layer=W}} ===By bus=== Bus fares are ¥1 - correct change only. As of 2026, you need a Chinese ID number to register a city bus card in Alipay, so foreigners are limited to cash payments. ===By taxi=== Both DiDi and taxis are readily available. Taxis will likely be somewhat cheaper than DiDi. ===By private car=== You can book a private car via a travel agency or at the reception of most hotels, which is especially useful for touring the sites outside the city. ===On foot=== Zhangye is laid out in the sprawling fashion typical of Chinese cities outside of the south, so be aware that although something may only appear to be a few city blocks away, a single city block may take nearly 10 minutes to walk. The elongated distances combined with extreme temperatures on many days can make navigating Zhangye by foot quite arduous. ==See== ===Within the city=== [[File:Zhangye Dafo Si 2014.01.02 15-33-30.jpg|thumbnail|Dafo Temple holds the largest wooden reclining Buddha in China]] * {{see | name=Dafo Temple | alt=大佛寺 | url=http://www.zydfs.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+86 936 6933666 | tollfree= | hours=8:30-18:00 | price=¥40; students ¥20 | wikidata=Q1563554 | lastedit=2026-06-04 | content=Holds the largest wooden indoor reclining Buddha in China at {{convert|34.5|m|abbr=on|sp=us}} long, {{convert|7.5|m|abbr=on|sp=us}} high. This temple is the reputed birthplace for the Mongol emperor, Kublai Khan. }} * {{see | name=Zhangye Drum Tower | alt=张掖鼓楼, Zhenyuan Building | url= | email= | address=Central Square of Ganzhou District | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=08:00-18:00 | price=Free | wikidata=Q18216677 | lastedit=2026-06-04 | content=Built in the Ming Dynasty and rebuilt in the Qing Dynasty. There is a huge drum hanging upstairs, once used to report the time and convey warnings. The top has an excellent view of the city. '''Open but wrapped in a big ugly canvas''' for renovations as of June 2026. }} * {{see | name=Zhangye Shanxi Guild Hall | alt=張掖山西會館 | url= | email= | address=near Dafo Temple | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=8:00-17:30 | price=Free | wikipedia=zh:張掖山西會館 | wikidata=Q11067138 | lastedit=2026-06-04 | content=A guild hall built by Shanxi merchants living in Zhangye during the Qing Dynasty. '''Closed for renovations''' as of June 2026. }} * {{see | name=Zhangye Museum | alt=張掖市博物館 | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.9285 | long=100.4511 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=8:30-18:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2026-06-05 | content=A great little history and culture museum if you can read Chinese – unfortunately almost none of the displays are in English. }} *{{see | name=Muto-ji Temple | alt=木塔寺, Mutasi | url= | email= | address=Muta Lane, Ganzhou District | lat=38.9317 | long=100.4498 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Summer 08:30-18:00, Winter 09:00-17:00 | price=¥25 | lastedit=2026-06-04 | content=The Wooden Pagoda Temple is one of the Five Elements Pagodas in Zhangye. The existing wooden pagoda was rebuilt in 1926. The tower is {{convert|32.8|m|sp=us}} high, with nine levels on eight sides. Each level has a wood-carved dragon head, a pearl in the mouth, and a wind chime hanging below. The main body of the tower is a wooden structure, and the outer eaves are built in the style of a pavilion. You can climb up the stairs of the tower. Each floor is equipped with a cloister and a guardrail. On the top floor you can overlook the city from the railing. }} ===Outside the city=== [[File:Colorful strata (Zhangye National Geopark).jpg|thumb|right|Zhangye National Geopark]] *{{see | name=Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Qicai Danxia) | alt=张掖丹霞国家地质公园 (七彩丹霞), Rainbow Mountains | url=http://www.zydanxia.com | email= | address= | lat=38.9653 | long=100.0429 | directions=40km west of Zhangye; take a bus from Zhangye Bus Station for ¥15 each way; first bus departs at 07:45; last bus returns from the North Gate Parking Lot at 18:30; note the return bus driver will refuse to leave until there is a critical mass of people regardless of what the sign says | phone= | tollfree= | hours=05:30-19:00 summer months | price=¥108 (including mandatory ¥38 shuttle fee) | wikipedia=Zhangye National Geopark | wikidata=Q17638329 | lastedit=2026-06-03 | content=A unique geological landscape with layers of rocks of different colors and mountains in the background. It is one of the highlights of Gansu province. Be aware that despite seeming like it is in the middle of nowhere on a map, the site is '''heavily commercialized''', filled with shops selling tourist snacks and knick-knacks, touts on megaphones, speakers and screens blaring Chinese pop music, unidirectional chutes built to herd the crowds, etc. You cannot walk in the park except on the 4 dedicated wooden structures and staircases. A frequent shuttle service will take you between each spot inside the park. It is possible to re-enter the park the next morning before 08:00 for only the cost of the park shuttle bus, if you register your fingerprints at a scanner at one of the stops. }} *{{see | name=Blackwater National site | alt=黑水国遗址 | url=http://www.bestchinahotel.com/attractions-in-zhangye/ | email= | address= | lat=39.032343 | long=100.339769 | directions=12.5 km northwest of Zhangye | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Ancient cultural sites of the Neolithic period. }} *{{see | name=Nanhu Park | alt=南湖公园, South Lake Ecological Botanical Garden | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.773942 | long=101.089997 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Cultural landscape and botanical garden. }} [[File:MatiSikl.jpg|thumb|right|Mati Si Temple]] *{{see | name=Mati Si Temple | alt=马蹄寺, Horse's Hoof Temple | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=65km south of Zhangye | phone= | tollfree= | hours=08:00-18:00 | price=¥73 | wikipedia=zh:馬蹄寺石窟群 | wikidata=Q1495655 | content=Temples and grottoes are carved into the side of a cliff in several zones spread over several kilometres. Several of these can be visited and climbed through, in some cases through tight vertical passageways using small footholds and handholds. Most of the statues were heavily damaged in the 1960s, but the buildings and passageways are in good shape. Besides the temple you can do a 2-hr horse tour passing a fantastic landscape (horse ride ¥150-200) or hike. }} * {{see | name=Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Binggou Danxia) | alt=张掖丹霞国家地质公园 (冰沟丹霞) | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.971607 | long=99.898029 | directions=take a bus from Zhangye Bus Station | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=¥40 entry + ¥20 bus fee | lastedit=2017-11-23 | content=Less colourful than the more famous Qicai Danxia, this one features columns of red rock (with some white bands), in two valleys. There's a network of trails accessing viewpoints in and around two different valleys. }} * {{see | name=Pingshanhu Grand Canyon | alt=平山湖大峡谷 | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.16574 | long=100.82874 | directions=60 km northeast of Zhangye; take a bus from the East Bus Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=¥100 Entry + ¥30 bus | lastedit=2017-12-03 | content= }} ==Do== *Swim in the Hei river *{{do | name=Heihe Wetland Park | alt=黑河湿地公园 | url= | email= | address=Suburbs of Ganzhou District | lat=38.9465 | long=100.4075 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:00-18:00 | price=¥30 | lastedit=2024-12-23 | content=Wetland habitat for birds and other wild animals with bird-watching towers. }} ==Buy== Some specialty products of the Zhangye region include: * '''Jujube'''. Zhangye's jujube is of excellent quality because of the area's abundant sunshine and fertile soil. It is known as the "sweet gift of the Silk Road". * '''Hexi wool products'''. The Hexi area surrounding Zhangye produces high-quality wool. Wool products include scarves, blankets and traditional craft-woven carpets. * '''Licorice'''. Zhangye licorice is famous for its high content of glycyrrhizic acid and pure taste, which is widely used in food seasoning and medicinal tea. Zhangye's licorice is usually made into slices, powders or tea bags. * '''Green barley wine'''. A traditional wine brewed from plateau green barley. It has a rich aroma, a slight wheat flavor, and a moderate alcohol content. It is a very popular drink in Tibet. * '''Handmade yogurt'''. Made of fresh or fermented sheep's milk. Has a thick texture and moderate sweet and sourness. Traditional handmade yogurt is usually combined with honey, nuts or raisins. ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Luopangzi Noodle Restaurant | alt=罗胖子面馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.9359 | long=100.4448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:30-20:00 | price=¥28 for a noodle bowl, a braised pork plate and a side dish | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=Gansu-style firecracker noodles and pork plates. The service is a bit gruff and the noodles an acquired taste, but the pork is delicious. }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Tian Run Jin Zuo Hotel | alt=天润金座酒店 | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.9331 | long=100.4229 | directions= | phone=+86 936 8438888 | tollfree= | checkin=after 10:30 | checkout=before 12:00 | price= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=Lovely rooms. A bit older but great value for money. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Jindu Hotel | alt=Jindu Binguan | url= | email= | address=19 East Street | lat=38.936814 | long=100.459500 | directions= | phone=+86 936 8245088 | tollfree= | fax=+86 936 8245122 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express | alt=智选假日酒店 | url= https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/zhangye/yzysp/hoteldetail | email= | address=184 W. Huancheng Rd | lat=38.959100 | long=100.434816 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | lastedit=2026-06-05 | content=Clean, comfortable, western chain hotel. It's kind of isolated and there is not much within walking distance. The #4 bus has a stop immediately in front of the hotel that can take you to the city center. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Zhangye Hotel | alt=张掖宾馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.968968 | long=100.423027 | directions= | phone=+86 936 8212601 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Huachen International Hotel | alt=华辰国际大酒店 | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.938513 | long=100.467827 | directions= | phone=+86 936 8257777 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ==Go next== * '''[[Minle]]''' – see rapeflower fields bordered by the Qilian Mountains * '''[[Dunhuang]]''' – famed for its Buddhist grottoes, the Mogao Caves * '''[[Xining]]''' – capital of [[Qinghai Province]] and gateway to [[Tibet]] * '''[[Xinjiang]]''' – China's far-flung western region {{geo|38.930|100.451|zoom=13}} {{outlinecity}} {{IsPartOf|Gansu}} 56jian30d2tyoxu28a23q4q9w10a98f 4 68661 5288908 5288460 2026-06-06T17:03:11Z Ikan Kekek 36420 /* Koavf (sysop) */ Reply 5288908 wikitext text/x-wiki {{disclaimerbox|{{shortcut|[[WV:RFA]]<br>[[WV:URN]]}} If you believe a [[Wikivoyage:About#Wikivoyagers|Wikivoyager]] – including yourself – should have [[Project:administrators|administrative]] status or any other higher user right, then add that person's username to the ''nominations'' section below. If nominated for permanent administrator, the Wikivoyager should meet the [[Project:Administrators#Becoming an administrator|guidelines for becoming an administrator]]. Generally speaking, they should: * Have been a contributor for at least a few months * Have an extensive knowledge of our [[policies]] * Have a history of article contribution, [[Wikivoyage:Non-administrator tasks|janitorial work]], cleaning up articles, contributing to policy discussions, and combating vandalism/spam * Have a demonstrated ability to work with the community '''Nominations must include a short statement outlining the nominee's eligibility in terms of these requirements.''' When responding to a nomination, most people choose to express their opinion with a bolded word or phrase, most often '''Support''' or '''Not yet''', followed by an explanation of the opinion. After 14 days, a [[Wikivoyage:Bureaucrats|bureaucrat]] will close the discussion and, if there is a [[Wikivoyage:Consensus|consensus]] that the nominee would make a good administrator, grant the administrator flag using [[Special:UserRights]]. [[Wikivoyage:Bureaucrats|Bureaucrats]], [[Wikivoyage:Interface administrators|interface admins]] and [[Wikivoyage:Checkuser|checkusers]] should also be nominated here. Users running for interface administrator must also confirm that they have [[Wikivoyage:Two-factor authentication|2FA]] enabled before they are promoted as per WMF policy. If this is not done, the request will be closed as unsuccessful. <h3>Temporary permissions</h3> Most requests on this page will go for 14 days and all will have a nomination period of 14 days, with the exception of temporary permissions, which may be granted no earlier than 7 days after the nomination was made if there are no outstanding questions or objections. An objection or question raised on the sixth day would automatically keep the nomination open (without temporary permission) for the full 14 days unless the matter was resolved before then. The nomination would always be open for 14 days so in some cases editors could comment after they have seen a couple of days of use of the temporary permission. }} ==Nominations== ===[[User:Koavf|Koavf]] (sysop)=== Hello, everyone! At a time where we seem to have ever-increasingly fewer active admins, the need for more admins who have a core fundamental understanding of the project is critical. Koavf, for one, is well versed and accustomed to this site's policies and practices. They've been an admin on various editions of Wikitravel (though it seems they're no longer an admin there due to IB doing IB stuff), an admin and checkuser on Wikispecies, in addition to being an admin on enwiktionary, mulwikisource, enwikiversity, Wikitech and Wikimedia Outreach. They're also a global rollbacker for added measure. They've already accepted the nomination on [[User talk:Koavf|their talk page]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:29, 21 May 2026 (UTC) * {{s}} as nominator. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:29, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *Hi, [[User:Koavf|Koavf]], and thanks for being willing to grab a broom and dustpan. I can't find the discussions right away, and forgive me if my memory is mistaken, but I believe we've had disagreements about userbans or at least deletion of material added by banned users or socks of same before, notably including users banned for racism and bigotry. Is my memory correct? If so, I would have to oppose this nomination, because having admins who don't believe in enforcing bans on users banned for bigotry adding more material would be corrosive to the site. My other concern would be for you to address your current attitude toward Wikitravel and IB. Are you no longer an admin there because they desysopped you, or did you decide at any point that IB is not a good-faith actor and you should therefore not have continued to associate yourself with them? By the way, how long after the fork did you continue to participate on Wikitravel? All of this is important because admins need to be clearly established not to be potential security risks. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:34, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *:The dispute was a little more subtle than that. You and I agree that 1.) bigots have no place here and 2.) blocked users should not edit here until/unless being unblocked. Where we disagreed was that an editor who was blocked for some gross racism came back via an IP and made some innocuous edits and was then discovered and blocked. You argued that we should revert all of <em>those</em> edits and I argued that undoing them [[ttcf|does not help the traveler]], so we should leave them (they were of the sort "Cafe X closes opens at 8:00 on Thursdays"). If you think that is disqualifying as an admin, then you are, of course, entitled to think that, but it definitely wasn't that I was giving cover for bigots to be here or for any blocked users to keep on editing surreptitiously. I agree that either of those is disqualifying. As for Wikitravel, I mostly deleted spam (probably on the order of a thousand pages) and reverted vandalism for a while until Internet Brands just decided that the only users who could be admins were their employees but also some users who weren't? I think I was the only person de-sysopped and they never told me why. Certainly seems bad faith to me. As for how long after the fork, I just continued occasionally editing there as I had for years. I have made many more actual contributions to this site since it was adopted by the WMF. For the time when I was an admin there, I presented myself as a kind of unofficial liaison to this community, which is where I'm more invested and motivated to do work. I hope that helps. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 17:13, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *::I think we should look at relevant threads. Do you remember which articles were nominated for deletion for being added or edited by socks of a banned user or where the discussion was? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:07, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *:::Also, yes, I think that opposing the deletion of all edits by socks of users after they have been banned for bigotry is disqualifying, because that means that you believe banned users should actually be permitted to effectively not be banned. I'll listen to arguments, but my opening position, at least, is to '''oppose''' this nomination. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:11, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *::::Sure. I understand your position and don't want to relitigate it or bicker with you about your vote, but since you solicited the thread, etc. it was [[Fügen]], which was <del>kept</del><ins>deleted and later created by someone else who is not a banned user</ins> and a bunch of poor quality guides that were deleted. To sum up [[Wikivoyage:Votes_for_deletion/October_2022#Other_articles_created_by_87.74.196.200|my view at the time]], which has not changed: *:::::I am not arguing in favor of someone being allowed to get around a ban: he's banned and banned with good reason. Ikan Kekek, ''how'' are travelers to [[Fügen]] helped by us deleting this usable guide? Who would come here looking for information about this destination, find that we had information about it that we deleted, and think, "Wow, I'm definitely being helped"? I am not proposing any change to policy. [https://www.vulture.com/2020/02/mcdonalds-monopoly-game-fraud-true-story.html If someone robs a bank and then gives the money to a children's hospital, you don't take medicine from the children, but you do stop that person from robbing the bank in the future]. I can't believe that I have to clarify this, but no one here is advocating that anti-Semitism is okay or that anti-Semites who otherwise make good content should be allowed to have some edits be okay, but just the bigoted ones not be: users who spread vile hate should be blocked. But if they have already contributed useful information to the travel guide and said information does not include their hateful prejudice, then it doesn't help anyone to remove it. '''If a user here who has been constructive for several years all of the sudden goes on some vile rant about a minority group, we wouldn't retroactively get rid of the good things that person added to free knowledge and culture.''' ::::For those who don't want to re-read the entirety of the thread, the added bold was basically the core of my point: removing constructive edits does not help the traveler and the core of our mission is [[ttcf]]. I can see how a reasonable person would disagree and I definitely agree in principle that bigots and Nazis should all stay off the Internet and follow their dear leader in the bunker. I just don't see how removing valid, useful material that is objectively true and has nothing to do with hate speech gives this travel guide more utility for travelers. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 21:07, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :::::And people who read the discussion will note that you advocated keeping an article started by a sock of a banned user. We have to "relitigate" the case because you are being nominated to be an admin, and admins have to uphold policy and not engage in corrosive arguments that damage the site. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:18, 21 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::By "relitigate" I simply meant that I didn't want to argue with your rationale: you are entitled to it and you have every right to air whatever concerns you have. I am happy to answer questions, etc. and don't want to be defensive or try to cut off criticism at the pass. I am in favor of our current policy and do not propose any change to it. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 21:22, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::There was nothing retroactive about this. It concerned an article started by a sock of a banned user well after they were banned. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 09:27, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::By "retroactive", I mean that the article existed and had useful information. Taking that useful information out of the travel guide once it was discovered that the IP address was actually a banned user is not helpful for travelers. The sock didn't start out by announcing that he's a sockpuppet, so it was only after it was discovered that someone proposed deleting useful information due to the personality of who added it. Again, my question stands: if we find out that someone is a sockpuppet after 20&nbsp;years, do you propose that we go back and remove tens of thousands of useful edits on principle? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 09:45, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::That's site policy, not merely a proposal. Banned means banned. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:13, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::We have [[:Category:Wikivoyage policies|88 policies]]. Which of those obliges us to delete material made by banned users? [[Wikivoyage:Office actions]] and [[Wikivoyage:Oversight]] are about certain kinds of deletion, but not related to banned users. [[Wikivoyage:Topic bans]] says nothing about deletion. [[Wikivoyage:Deletion policy]] says nothing about banned users. The most appropriate policy page would be [[Wikivoyage:How to handle unwanted edits]] and nothing there obliges us to delete all material added by sockpuppets of banned users. Which policy page am I missing or misunderstanding here? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 10:28, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::The one that was reaffirmed by the thread we've been discussing. Don't try to make this into a personal proposal by me. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:41, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::I'm not suggesting that. I'm asking you to link to which of the 88 policy pages we have that obliges us to delete pages created by banned users. I'm a fallible person, I can certainly be ignorant or miss things or not understand things. You wrote that the site's policy is to delete pages created by banned users and I'm asking you which of our policies that is. I have no other agenda. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 10:52, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::Do you recognize that some policies are determined and reaffirmed in discussions on policy pages such as Votes for deletion? Not all settled matters of policy or practice are spelled out otherwise. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:26, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::A general way of doing things can spontaneously emerge and the decision to make a single action like deleting a page can be determined ad hoc by a discussion. Formalizing a policy is done by making a guideline, refining it with consensus, and then finalizing it and adding it to [[Wikivoyage:Policies]]. Yes, it is true that due to the consensus at that discussion, admins were obliged to delete that page. Were I am admin, I would delete a page that there was consensus to delete, even if I personally didn't think it should be deleted. There is not a site-wide policy to delete pages created by banned users and that discussion did not make a policy to do so, even if it could be used as precedent for future policy. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 11:31, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::::And if such a formal policy were proposed, we would get the same kind of arguments from a few dissenters and damage the site again...nevertheless, much as common law exists that is not spelled out in constitutions, the consensus, reaffirmed several times, is as shown in that thread, and I don't look forward to any possibility of reading rationalizations from a minority of long-term users including an additional admin for why we should let users banned for gross bigotry get around bans in the future. I don't think we'll get a commitment from you not to repeat the arguments you've stated in this thread that you still hold, so why in the world would I as a self-respecting Jew who also takes umbrage at attacks on Africans, Arabs and Muslims support your nomination? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:46, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::I can't answer that for you, but I commit to abiding by, and if given the opportunity, enforcing the site's policies as best as I can and understand them. I remain of the opinion that banned users should not be allowed to get around bans and had a very long conversation about exactly this on en.wikt that got escalated all the way to stewards ultimately intervening because I continued to block a banned user. I do not support banned users contributing directly or by proxy to any wiki where they are blocked. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 11:54, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::::::But you believe that after some unspecified amount of time, the edits of socks of banned users should be allowed to stand. So just how long a time is that? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:26, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::::It's not a matter of time, but utility. If someone adds useful information, I would not be in favor of removing that useful information if I found out that it was added by a banned user. You disagree. I think your perspective is perfectly reasonable and I can understand why someone would have it, particularly in the case of some gross bigot. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 12:28, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::::::::What does a userban mean, in your opinion? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:03, 6 June 2026 (UTC) * {{s}} Koavf has explained their rationale on the Fügen issue. I do not think that that issue alone is sufficient for denying Wikivoyage the benefit of having another experienced and capable administrator. Sometimes we disagree, and we can talk through these disagreements. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 00:38, 22 May 2026 (UTC) * {{s}} - what's most important is whether Koavf will apply Wikivoyage's existing rules and policies correctly and fairly, which I trust him to do so. I don't see his opinions on an ethical grey area, i.e. should constructive edits made by a banned or bigoted user which benefit the traveller but can be seen as acquiescence to the bigotry be removed in totality, as particularly relevant to how he will perform as an admin. I'm sure he will respect consensus on the issue. [[User:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">Gizza</span>]]^{(<i>[[User_talk:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">roam</span>]]</i>)} 02:51, 22 May 2026 (UTC) * '''Comment''' - I agree with GZ and Gizza that differences of opinion are absolutely fine for an admin and that respecting consensus is what's important. Everything I remember of Justin's long edit history on Wikivoyage is that he always respects consensus. Giving him the admin tools will not enable him to change the policy he disagreed with, but it will help Wikivoyage in many other ways. As someone who isn't around as much as I should be, I welcome Justin's willingness to take on some extra responsibilities. :{{ping|Koavf}} One thing I want to ask you about is your siteban on English Wikipedia (since July 2024). What is your understanding of the reason for your ban, do you agree, and has your mindset changed since then? To my recollection, there have never been similar questions about you on Wikivoyage, and I hope you don't think it unfair of me to bring it up, but I still think it warrants addressing before the community gives you the keys to the big toolbox.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 01:53, 31 May 2026 (UTC) ::I would characterize the reason as being generally uncivil and difficult (i.e. it was not a matter of the edits as such, but the interactions), I generally agree with the ban and do not think that it's invalid or unjustified, and I would say that my demeanor is more civil now, but that's up to others to validate or contradict. If anyone wants to see the discussion, etc., see [https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Wikipedia:Administrators%27_noticeboard&diff=prev&oldid=1236392530 here]. I don't think it's unfair and if anyone has concerns or questions re: that, I am fine with addressing them. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 02:22, 31 May 2026 (UTC) :::Thanks for your reply and patience while I considered my response. You seem to have good insight. I've been looking at some of your edits on wikis where you're already a sysop, and have seen nothing to be alarmed by. In fact, you'd be a valuable addition to the admin team here.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 04:03, 2 June 2026 (UTC) *'''Support''' per above threads.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 04:03, 2 June 2026 (UTC) *'''Support''' my thinking is exactly as stated by @Ground Zero. @Koavf is a responsible user who is a valuable contributor to the site. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:06, 2 June 2026 (UTC) :{{support}} per everyone else. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 00:42, 4 June 2026 (UTC) ::{{re|Ikan Kekek|ThunderingTyphoons!}} Today marks 14 days from the start of the nomination: based on the current discussion, I would consider it a very weak consensus leaning in favor of promotion (5S, 1O, but that 1 oppose was a significant comment). Thoughts on promotion? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:47, 4 June 2026 (UTC) :::It probably depends how strongly IK feels in opposition. Or have [[user:Ikan Kekek|you]] changed your mind at all based on subsequent comments from Justin and other users? --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 02:44, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::I have not. I think both their position on articles started by socks of banned users and their functioning as an admin on Wikitravel until IB removed them as such are problematic. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 09:30, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ==See also== *[[Wikivoyage:User rights nominations/Archives]] ([[Wikivoyage:User rights nominations/Archives/{{CURRENTYEAR}}|current year]]) *[[Wikivoyage:Administrators]] *[[Special:Listusers/sysop|Current administrators]] {{WikivoyageDoc|collaboration}} 5mgqe56rihhfp2polqmlis6eyda4jnw 5288928 5288908 2026-06-06T18:34:32Z Koavf 36077 /* Koavf (sysop) */ Reply 5288928 wikitext text/x-wiki {{disclaimerbox|{{shortcut|[[WV:RFA]]<br>[[WV:URN]]}} If you believe a [[Wikivoyage:About#Wikivoyagers|Wikivoyager]] – including yourself – should have [[Project:administrators|administrative]] status or any other higher user right, then add that person's username to the ''nominations'' section below. If nominated for permanent administrator, the Wikivoyager should meet the [[Project:Administrators#Becoming an administrator|guidelines for becoming an administrator]]. Generally speaking, they should: * Have been a contributor for at least a few months * Have an extensive knowledge of our [[policies]] * Have a history of article contribution, [[Wikivoyage:Non-administrator tasks|janitorial work]], cleaning up articles, contributing to policy discussions, and combating vandalism/spam * Have a demonstrated ability to work with the community '''Nominations must include a short statement outlining the nominee's eligibility in terms of these requirements.''' When responding to a nomination, most people choose to express their opinion with a bolded word or phrase, most often '''Support''' or '''Not yet''', followed by an explanation of the opinion. After 14 days, a [[Wikivoyage:Bureaucrats|bureaucrat]] will close the discussion and, if there is a [[Wikivoyage:Consensus|consensus]] that the nominee would make a good administrator, grant the administrator flag using [[Special:UserRights]]. [[Wikivoyage:Bureaucrats|Bureaucrats]], [[Wikivoyage:Interface administrators|interface admins]] and [[Wikivoyage:Checkuser|checkusers]] should also be nominated here. Users running for interface administrator must also confirm that they have [[Wikivoyage:Two-factor authentication|2FA]] enabled before they are promoted as per WMF policy. If this is not done, the request will be closed as unsuccessful. <h3>Temporary permissions</h3> Most requests on this page will go for 14 days and all will have a nomination period of 14 days, with the exception of temporary permissions, which may be granted no earlier than 7 days after the nomination was made if there are no outstanding questions or objections. An objection or question raised on the sixth day would automatically keep the nomination open (without temporary permission) for the full 14 days unless the matter was resolved before then. The nomination would always be open for 14 days so in some cases editors could comment after they have seen a couple of days of use of the temporary permission. }} ==Nominations== ===[[User:Koavf|Koavf]] (sysop)=== Hello, everyone! At a time where we seem to have ever-increasingly fewer active admins, the need for more admins who have a core fundamental understanding of the project is critical. Koavf, for one, is well versed and accustomed to this site's policies and practices. They've been an admin on various editions of Wikitravel (though it seems they're no longer an admin there due to IB doing IB stuff), an admin and checkuser on Wikispecies, in addition to being an admin on enwiktionary, mulwikisource, enwikiversity, Wikitech and Wikimedia Outreach. They're also a global rollbacker for added measure. They've already accepted the nomination on [[User talk:Koavf|their talk page]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:29, 21 May 2026 (UTC) * {{s}} as nominator. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:29, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *Hi, [[User:Koavf|Koavf]], and thanks for being willing to grab a broom and dustpan. I can't find the discussions right away, and forgive me if my memory is mistaken, but I believe we've had disagreements about userbans or at least deletion of material added by banned users or socks of same before, notably including users banned for racism and bigotry. Is my memory correct? If so, I would have to oppose this nomination, because having admins who don't believe in enforcing bans on users banned for bigotry adding more material would be corrosive to the site. My other concern would be for you to address your current attitude toward Wikitravel and IB. Are you no longer an admin there because they desysopped you, or did you decide at any point that IB is not a good-faith actor and you should therefore not have continued to associate yourself with them? By the way, how long after the fork did you continue to participate on Wikitravel? All of this is important because admins need to be clearly established not to be potential security risks. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:34, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *:The dispute was a little more subtle than that. You and I agree that 1.) bigots have no place here and 2.) blocked users should not edit here until/unless being unblocked. Where we disagreed was that an editor who was blocked for some gross racism came back via an IP and made some innocuous edits and was then discovered and blocked. You argued that we should revert all of <em>those</em> edits and I argued that undoing them [[ttcf|does not help the traveler]], so we should leave them (they were of the sort "Cafe X closes opens at 8:00 on Thursdays"). If you think that is disqualifying as an admin, then you are, of course, entitled to think that, but it definitely wasn't that I was giving cover for bigots to be here or for any blocked users to keep on editing surreptitiously. I agree that either of those is disqualifying. As for Wikitravel, I mostly deleted spam (probably on the order of a thousand pages) and reverted vandalism for a while until Internet Brands just decided that the only users who could be admins were their employees but also some users who weren't? I think I was the only person de-sysopped and they never told me why. Certainly seems bad faith to me. As for how long after the fork, I just continued occasionally editing there as I had for years. I have made many more actual contributions to this site since it was adopted by the WMF. For the time when I was an admin there, I presented myself as a kind of unofficial liaison to this community, which is where I'm more invested and motivated to do work. I hope that helps. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 17:13, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *::I think we should look at relevant threads. Do you remember which articles were nominated for deletion for being added or edited by socks of a banned user or where the discussion was? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:07, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *:::Also, yes, I think that opposing the deletion of all edits by socks of users after they have been banned for bigotry is disqualifying, because that means that you believe banned users should actually be permitted to effectively not be banned. I'll listen to arguments, but my opening position, at least, is to '''oppose''' this nomination. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:11, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *::::Sure. I understand your position and don't want to relitigate it or bicker with you about your vote, but since you solicited the thread, etc. it was [[Fügen]], which was <del>kept</del><ins>deleted and later created by someone else who is not a banned user</ins> and a bunch of poor quality guides that were deleted. To sum up [[Wikivoyage:Votes_for_deletion/October_2022#Other_articles_created_by_87.74.196.200|my view at the time]], which has not changed: *:::::I am not arguing in favor of someone being allowed to get around a ban: he's banned and banned with good reason. Ikan Kekek, ''how'' are travelers to [[Fügen]] helped by us deleting this usable guide? Who would come here looking for information about this destination, find that we had information about it that we deleted, and think, "Wow, I'm definitely being helped"? I am not proposing any change to policy. [https://www.vulture.com/2020/02/mcdonalds-monopoly-game-fraud-true-story.html If someone robs a bank and then gives the money to a children's hospital, you don't take medicine from the children, but you do stop that person from robbing the bank in the future]. I can't believe that I have to clarify this, but no one here is advocating that anti-Semitism is okay or that anti-Semites who otherwise make good content should be allowed to have some edits be okay, but just the bigoted ones not be: users who spread vile hate should be blocked. But if they have already contributed useful information to the travel guide and said information does not include their hateful prejudice, then it doesn't help anyone to remove it. '''If a user here who has been constructive for several years all of the sudden goes on some vile rant about a minority group, we wouldn't retroactively get rid of the good things that person added to free knowledge and culture.''' ::::For those who don't want to re-read the entirety of the thread, the added bold was basically the core of my point: removing constructive edits does not help the traveler and the core of our mission is [[ttcf]]. I can see how a reasonable person would disagree and I definitely agree in principle that bigots and Nazis should all stay off the Internet and follow their dear leader in the bunker. I just don't see how removing valid, useful material that is objectively true and has nothing to do with hate speech gives this travel guide more utility for travelers. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 21:07, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :::::And people who read the discussion will note that you advocated keeping an article started by a sock of a banned user. We have to "relitigate" the case because you are being nominated to be an admin, and admins have to uphold policy and not engage in corrosive arguments that damage the site. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:18, 21 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::By "relitigate" I simply meant that I didn't want to argue with your rationale: you are entitled to it and you have every right to air whatever concerns you have. I am happy to answer questions, etc. and don't want to be defensive or try to cut off criticism at the pass. I am in favor of our current policy and do not propose any change to it. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 21:22, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::There was nothing retroactive about this. It concerned an article started by a sock of a banned user well after they were banned. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 09:27, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::By "retroactive", I mean that the article existed and had useful information. Taking that useful information out of the travel guide once it was discovered that the IP address was actually a banned user is not helpful for travelers. The sock didn't start out by announcing that he's a sockpuppet, so it was only after it was discovered that someone proposed deleting useful information due to the personality of who added it. Again, my question stands: if we find out that someone is a sockpuppet after 20&nbsp;years, do you propose that we go back and remove tens of thousands of useful edits on principle? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 09:45, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::That's site policy, not merely a proposal. Banned means banned. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:13, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::We have [[:Category:Wikivoyage policies|88 policies]]. Which of those obliges us to delete material made by banned users? [[Wikivoyage:Office actions]] and [[Wikivoyage:Oversight]] are about certain kinds of deletion, but not related to banned users. [[Wikivoyage:Topic bans]] says nothing about deletion. [[Wikivoyage:Deletion policy]] says nothing about banned users. The most appropriate policy page would be [[Wikivoyage:How to handle unwanted edits]] and nothing there obliges us to delete all material added by sockpuppets of banned users. Which policy page am I missing or misunderstanding here? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 10:28, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::The one that was reaffirmed by the thread we've been discussing. Don't try to make this into a personal proposal by me. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:41, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::I'm not suggesting that. I'm asking you to link to which of the 88 policy pages we have that obliges us to delete pages created by banned users. I'm a fallible person, I can certainly be ignorant or miss things or not understand things. You wrote that the site's policy is to delete pages created by banned users and I'm asking you which of our policies that is. I have no other agenda. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 10:52, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::Do you recognize that some policies are determined and reaffirmed in discussions on policy pages such as Votes for deletion? Not all settled matters of policy or practice are spelled out otherwise. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:26, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::A general way of doing things can spontaneously emerge and the decision to make a single action like deleting a page can be determined ad hoc by a discussion. Formalizing a policy is done by making a guideline, refining it with consensus, and then finalizing it and adding it to [[Wikivoyage:Policies]]. Yes, it is true that due to the consensus at that discussion, admins were obliged to delete that page. Were I am admin, I would delete a page that there was consensus to delete, even if I personally didn't think it should be deleted. There is not a site-wide policy to delete pages created by banned users and that discussion did not make a policy to do so, even if it could be used as precedent for future policy. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 11:31, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::::And if such a formal policy were proposed, we would get the same kind of arguments from a few dissenters and damage the site again...nevertheless, much as common law exists that is not spelled out in constitutions, the consensus, reaffirmed several times, is as shown in that thread, and I don't look forward to any possibility of reading rationalizations from a minority of long-term users including an additional admin for why we should let users banned for gross bigotry get around bans in the future. I don't think we'll get a commitment from you not to repeat the arguments you've stated in this thread that you still hold, so why in the world would I as a self-respecting Jew who also takes umbrage at attacks on Africans, Arabs and Muslims support your nomination? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:46, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::I can't answer that for you, but I commit to abiding by, and if given the opportunity, enforcing the site's policies as best as I can and understand them. I remain of the opinion that banned users should not be allowed to get around bans and had a very long conversation about exactly this on en.wikt that got escalated all the way to stewards ultimately intervening because I continued to block a banned user. I do not support banned users contributing directly or by proxy to any wiki where they are blocked. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 11:54, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::::::But you believe that after some unspecified amount of time, the edits of socks of banned users should be allowed to stand. So just how long a time is that? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:26, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::::It's not a matter of time, but utility. If someone adds useful information, I would not be in favor of removing that useful information if I found out that it was added by a banned user. You disagree. I think your perspective is perfectly reasonable and I can understand why someone would have it, particularly in the case of some gross bigot. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 12:28, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::::::::What does a userban mean, in your opinion? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:03, 6 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::::::A person behind an account is barred from editing until or unless the ban is lifted. This includes any editing by proxy or inducing someone else or edit on the person's behalf. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 18:34, 6 June 2026 (UTC) * {{s}} Koavf has explained their rationale on the Fügen issue. I do not think that that issue alone is sufficient for denying Wikivoyage the benefit of having another experienced and capable administrator. Sometimes we disagree, and we can talk through these disagreements. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 00:38, 22 May 2026 (UTC) * {{s}} - what's most important is whether Koavf will apply Wikivoyage's existing rules and policies correctly and fairly, which I trust him to do so. I don't see his opinions on an ethical grey area, i.e. should constructive edits made by a banned or bigoted user which benefit the traveller but can be seen as acquiescence to the bigotry be removed in totality, as particularly relevant to how he will perform as an admin. I'm sure he will respect consensus on the issue. [[User:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">Gizza</span>]]^{(<i>[[User_talk:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">roam</span>]]</i>)} 02:51, 22 May 2026 (UTC) * '''Comment''' - I agree with GZ and Gizza that differences of opinion are absolutely fine for an admin and that respecting consensus is what's important. Everything I remember of Justin's long edit history on Wikivoyage is that he always respects consensus. Giving him the admin tools will not enable him to change the policy he disagreed with, but it will help Wikivoyage in many other ways. As someone who isn't around as much as I should be, I welcome Justin's willingness to take on some extra responsibilities. :{{ping|Koavf}} One thing I want to ask you about is your siteban on English Wikipedia (since July 2024). What is your understanding of the reason for your ban, do you agree, and has your mindset changed since then? To my recollection, there have never been similar questions about you on Wikivoyage, and I hope you don't think it unfair of me to bring it up, but I still think it warrants addressing before the community gives you the keys to the big toolbox.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 01:53, 31 May 2026 (UTC) ::I would characterize the reason as being generally uncivil and difficult (i.e. it was not a matter of the edits as such, but the interactions), I generally agree with the ban and do not think that it's invalid or unjustified, and I would say that my demeanor is more civil now, but that's up to others to validate or contradict. If anyone wants to see the discussion, etc., see [https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Wikipedia:Administrators%27_noticeboard&diff=prev&oldid=1236392530 here]. I don't think it's unfair and if anyone has concerns or questions re: that, I am fine with addressing them. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 02:22, 31 May 2026 (UTC) :::Thanks for your reply and patience while I considered my response. You seem to have good insight. I've been looking at some of your edits on wikis where you're already a sysop, and have seen nothing to be alarmed by. In fact, you'd be a valuable addition to the admin team here.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 04:03, 2 June 2026 (UTC) *'''Support''' per above threads.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 04:03, 2 June 2026 (UTC) *'''Support''' my thinking is exactly as stated by @Ground Zero. @Koavf is a responsible user who is a valuable contributor to the site. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:06, 2 June 2026 (UTC) :{{support}} per everyone else. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 00:42, 4 June 2026 (UTC) ::{{re|Ikan Kekek|ThunderingTyphoons!}} Today marks 14 days from the start of the nomination: based on the current discussion, I would consider it a very weak consensus leaning in favor of promotion (5S, 1O, but that 1 oppose was a significant comment). Thoughts on promotion? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:47, 4 June 2026 (UTC) :::It probably depends how strongly IK feels in opposition. Or have [[user:Ikan Kekek|you]] changed your mind at all based on subsequent comments from Justin and other users? --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 02:44, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::I have not. I think both their position on articles started by socks of banned users and their functioning as an admin on Wikitravel until IB removed them as such are problematic. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 09:30, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ==See also== *[[Wikivoyage:User rights nominations/Archives]] ([[Wikivoyage:User rights nominations/Archives/{{CURRENTYEAR}}|current year]]) *[[Wikivoyage:Administrators]] *[[Special:Listusers/sysop|Current administrators]] {{WikivoyageDoc|collaboration}} boep1ho33m9klz64ox3n3wcfs8v91i0 5288948 5288928 2026-06-06T23:34:54Z Ikan Kekek 36420 /* Koavf (sysop) */ Reply 5288948 wikitext text/x-wiki {{disclaimerbox|{{shortcut|[[WV:RFA]]<br>[[WV:URN]]}} If you believe a [[Wikivoyage:About#Wikivoyagers|Wikivoyager]] – including yourself – should have [[Project:administrators|administrative]] status or any other higher user right, then add that person's username to the ''nominations'' section below. If nominated for permanent administrator, the Wikivoyager should meet the [[Project:Administrators#Becoming an administrator|guidelines for becoming an administrator]]. Generally speaking, they should: * Have been a contributor for at least a few months * Have an extensive knowledge of our [[policies]] * Have a history of article contribution, [[Wikivoyage:Non-administrator tasks|janitorial work]], cleaning up articles, contributing to policy discussions, and combating vandalism/spam * Have a demonstrated ability to work with the community '''Nominations must include a short statement outlining the nominee's eligibility in terms of these requirements.''' When responding to a nomination, most people choose to express their opinion with a bolded word or phrase, most often '''Support''' or '''Not yet''', followed by an explanation of the opinion. After 14 days, a [[Wikivoyage:Bureaucrats|bureaucrat]] will close the discussion and, if there is a [[Wikivoyage:Consensus|consensus]] that the nominee would make a good administrator, grant the administrator flag using [[Special:UserRights]]. [[Wikivoyage:Bureaucrats|Bureaucrats]], [[Wikivoyage:Interface administrators|interface admins]] and [[Wikivoyage:Checkuser|checkusers]] should also be nominated here. Users running for interface administrator must also confirm that they have [[Wikivoyage:Two-factor authentication|2FA]] enabled before they are promoted as per WMF policy. If this is not done, the request will be closed as unsuccessful. <h3>Temporary permissions</h3> Most requests on this page will go for 14 days and all will have a nomination period of 14 days, with the exception of temporary permissions, which may be granted no earlier than 7 days after the nomination was made if there are no outstanding questions or objections. An objection or question raised on the sixth day would automatically keep the nomination open (without temporary permission) for the full 14 days unless the matter was resolved before then. The nomination would always be open for 14 days so in some cases editors could comment after they have seen a couple of days of use of the temporary permission. }} ==Nominations== ===[[User:Koavf|Koavf]] (sysop)=== Hello, everyone! At a time where we seem to have ever-increasingly fewer active admins, the need for more admins who have a core fundamental understanding of the project is critical. Koavf, for one, is well versed and accustomed to this site's policies and practices. They've been an admin on various editions of Wikitravel (though it seems they're no longer an admin there due to IB doing IB stuff), an admin and checkuser on Wikispecies, in addition to being an admin on enwiktionary, mulwikisource, enwikiversity, Wikitech and Wikimedia Outreach. They're also a global rollbacker for added measure. They've already accepted the nomination on [[User talk:Koavf|their talk page]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:29, 21 May 2026 (UTC) * {{s}} as nominator. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:29, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *Hi, [[User:Koavf|Koavf]], and thanks for being willing to grab a broom and dustpan. I can't find the discussions right away, and forgive me if my memory is mistaken, but I believe we've had disagreements about userbans or at least deletion of material added by banned users or socks of same before, notably including users banned for racism and bigotry. Is my memory correct? If so, I would have to oppose this nomination, because having admins who don't believe in enforcing bans on users banned for bigotry adding more material would be corrosive to the site. My other concern would be for you to address your current attitude toward Wikitravel and IB. Are you no longer an admin there because they desysopped you, or did you decide at any point that IB is not a good-faith actor and you should therefore not have continued to associate yourself with them? By the way, how long after the fork did you continue to participate on Wikitravel? All of this is important because admins need to be clearly established not to be potential security risks. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:34, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *:The dispute was a little more subtle than that. You and I agree that 1.) bigots have no place here and 2.) blocked users should not edit here until/unless being unblocked. Where we disagreed was that an editor who was blocked for some gross racism came back via an IP and made some innocuous edits and was then discovered and blocked. You argued that we should revert all of <em>those</em> edits and I argued that undoing them [[ttcf|does not help the traveler]], so we should leave them (they were of the sort "Cafe X closes opens at 8:00 on Thursdays"). If you think that is disqualifying as an admin, then you are, of course, entitled to think that, but it definitely wasn't that I was giving cover for bigots to be here or for any blocked users to keep on editing surreptitiously. I agree that either of those is disqualifying. As for Wikitravel, I mostly deleted spam (probably on the order of a thousand pages) and reverted vandalism for a while until Internet Brands just decided that the only users who could be admins were their employees but also some users who weren't? I think I was the only person de-sysopped and they never told me why. Certainly seems bad faith to me. As for how long after the fork, I just continued occasionally editing there as I had for years. I have made many more actual contributions to this site since it was adopted by the WMF. For the time when I was an admin there, I presented myself as a kind of unofficial liaison to this community, which is where I'm more invested and motivated to do work. I hope that helps. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 17:13, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *::I think we should look at relevant threads. Do you remember which articles were nominated for deletion for being added or edited by socks of a banned user or where the discussion was? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:07, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *:::Also, yes, I think that opposing the deletion of all edits by socks of users after they have been banned for bigotry is disqualifying, because that means that you believe banned users should actually be permitted to effectively not be banned. I'll listen to arguments, but my opening position, at least, is to '''oppose''' this nomination. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:11, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *::::Sure. I understand your position and don't want to relitigate it or bicker with you about your vote, but since you solicited the thread, etc. it was [[Fügen]], which was <del>kept</del><ins>deleted and later created by someone else who is not a banned user</ins> and a bunch of poor quality guides that were deleted. To sum up [[Wikivoyage:Votes_for_deletion/October_2022#Other_articles_created_by_87.74.196.200|my view at the time]], which has not changed: *:::::I am not arguing in favor of someone being allowed to get around a ban: he's banned and banned with good reason. Ikan Kekek, ''how'' are travelers to [[Fügen]] helped by us deleting this usable guide? Who would come here looking for information about this destination, find that we had information about it that we deleted, and think, "Wow, I'm definitely being helped"? I am not proposing any change to policy. [https://www.vulture.com/2020/02/mcdonalds-monopoly-game-fraud-true-story.html If someone robs a bank and then gives the money to a children's hospital, you don't take medicine from the children, but you do stop that person from robbing the bank in the future]. I can't believe that I have to clarify this, but no one here is advocating that anti-Semitism is okay or that anti-Semites who otherwise make good content should be allowed to have some edits be okay, but just the bigoted ones not be: users who spread vile hate should be blocked. But if they have already contributed useful information to the travel guide and said information does not include their hateful prejudice, then it doesn't help anyone to remove it. '''If a user here who has been constructive for several years all of the sudden goes on some vile rant about a minority group, we wouldn't retroactively get rid of the good things that person added to free knowledge and culture.''' ::::For those who don't want to re-read the entirety of the thread, the added bold was basically the core of my point: removing constructive edits does not help the traveler and the core of our mission is [[ttcf]]. I can see how a reasonable person would disagree and I definitely agree in principle that bigots and Nazis should all stay off the Internet and follow their dear leader in the bunker. I just don't see how removing valid, useful material that is objectively true and has nothing to do with hate speech gives this travel guide more utility for travelers. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 21:07, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :::::And people who read the discussion will note that you advocated keeping an article started by a sock of a banned user. We have to "relitigate" the case because you are being nominated to be an admin, and admins have to uphold policy and not engage in corrosive arguments that damage the site. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:18, 21 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::By "relitigate" I simply meant that I didn't want to argue with your rationale: you are entitled to it and you have every right to air whatever concerns you have. I am happy to answer questions, etc. and don't want to be defensive or try to cut off criticism at the pass. I am in favor of our current policy and do not propose any change to it. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 21:22, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::There was nothing retroactive about this. It concerned an article started by a sock of a banned user well after they were banned. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 09:27, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::By "retroactive", I mean that the article existed and had useful information. Taking that useful information out of the travel guide once it was discovered that the IP address was actually a banned user is not helpful for travelers. The sock didn't start out by announcing that he's a sockpuppet, so it was only after it was discovered that someone proposed deleting useful information due to the personality of who added it. Again, my question stands: if we find out that someone is a sockpuppet after 20&nbsp;years, do you propose that we go back and remove tens of thousands of useful edits on principle? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 09:45, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::That's site policy, not merely a proposal. Banned means banned. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:13, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::We have [[:Category:Wikivoyage policies|88 policies]]. Which of those obliges us to delete material made by banned users? [[Wikivoyage:Office actions]] and [[Wikivoyage:Oversight]] are about certain kinds of deletion, but not related to banned users. [[Wikivoyage:Topic bans]] says nothing about deletion. [[Wikivoyage:Deletion policy]] says nothing about banned users. The most appropriate policy page would be [[Wikivoyage:How to handle unwanted edits]] and nothing there obliges us to delete all material added by sockpuppets of banned users. Which policy page am I missing or misunderstanding here? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 10:28, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::The one that was reaffirmed by the thread we've been discussing. Don't try to make this into a personal proposal by me. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:41, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::I'm not suggesting that. I'm asking you to link to which of the 88 policy pages we have that obliges us to delete pages created by banned users. I'm a fallible person, I can certainly be ignorant or miss things or not understand things. You wrote that the site's policy is to delete pages created by banned users and I'm asking you which of our policies that is. I have no other agenda. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 10:52, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::Do you recognize that some policies are determined and reaffirmed in discussions on policy pages such as Votes for deletion? Not all settled matters of policy or practice are spelled out otherwise. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:26, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::A general way of doing things can spontaneously emerge and the decision to make a single action like deleting a page can be determined ad hoc by a discussion. Formalizing a policy is done by making a guideline, refining it with consensus, and then finalizing it and adding it to [[Wikivoyage:Policies]]. Yes, it is true that due to the consensus at that discussion, admins were obliged to delete that page. Were I am admin, I would delete a page that there was consensus to delete, even if I personally didn't think it should be deleted. There is not a site-wide policy to delete pages created by banned users and that discussion did not make a policy to do so, even if it could be used as precedent for future policy. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 11:31, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::::And if such a formal policy were proposed, we would get the same kind of arguments from a few dissenters and damage the site again...nevertheless, much as common law exists that is not spelled out in constitutions, the consensus, reaffirmed several times, is as shown in that thread, and I don't look forward to any possibility of reading rationalizations from a minority of long-term users including an additional admin for why we should let users banned for gross bigotry get around bans in the future. I don't think we'll get a commitment from you not to repeat the arguments you've stated in this thread that you still hold, so why in the world would I as a self-respecting Jew who also takes umbrage at attacks on Africans, Arabs and Muslims support your nomination? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:46, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::I can't answer that for you, but I commit to abiding by, and if given the opportunity, enforcing the site's policies as best as I can and understand them. I remain of the opinion that banned users should not be allowed to get around bans and had a very long conversation about exactly this on en.wikt that got escalated all the way to stewards ultimately intervening because I continued to block a banned user. I do not support banned users contributing directly or by proxy to any wiki where they are blocked. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 11:54, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::::::But you believe that after some unspecified amount of time, the edits of socks of banned users should be allowed to stand. So just how long a time is that? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:26, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::::It's not a matter of time, but utility. If someone adds useful information, I would not be in favor of removing that useful information if I found out that it was added by a banned user. You disagree. I think your perspective is perfectly reasonable and I can understand why someone would have it, particularly in the case of some gross bigot. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 12:28, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::::::::What does a userban mean, in your opinion? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:03, 6 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::::::A person behind an account is barred from editing until or unless the ban is lifted. This includes any editing by proxy or inducing someone else or edit on the person's behalf. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 18:34, 6 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::::::::::Except when you find the text they thus added to be useful? Sorry to belabor the point, but I really fail to see how you actually believe in userbans. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:34, 6 June 2026 (UTC) * {{s}} Koavf has explained their rationale on the Fügen issue. I do not think that that issue alone is sufficient for denying Wikivoyage the benefit of having another experienced and capable administrator. Sometimes we disagree, and we can talk through these disagreements. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 00:38, 22 May 2026 (UTC) * {{s}} - what's most important is whether Koavf will apply Wikivoyage's existing rules and policies correctly and fairly, which I trust him to do so. I don't see his opinions on an ethical grey area, i.e. should constructive edits made by a banned or bigoted user which benefit the traveller but can be seen as acquiescence to the bigotry be removed in totality, as particularly relevant to how he will perform as an admin. I'm sure he will respect consensus on the issue. [[User:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">Gizza</span>]]^{(<i>[[User_talk:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">roam</span>]]</i>)} 02:51, 22 May 2026 (UTC) * '''Comment''' - I agree with GZ and Gizza that differences of opinion are absolutely fine for an admin and that respecting consensus is what's important. Everything I remember of Justin's long edit history on Wikivoyage is that he always respects consensus. Giving him the admin tools will not enable him to change the policy he disagreed with, but it will help Wikivoyage in many other ways. As someone who isn't around as much as I should be, I welcome Justin's willingness to take on some extra responsibilities. :{{ping|Koavf}} One thing I want to ask you about is your siteban on English Wikipedia (since July 2024). What is your understanding of the reason for your ban, do you agree, and has your mindset changed since then? To my recollection, there have never been similar questions about you on Wikivoyage, and I hope you don't think it unfair of me to bring it up, but I still think it warrants addressing before the community gives you the keys to the big toolbox.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 01:53, 31 May 2026 (UTC) ::I would characterize the reason as being generally uncivil and difficult (i.e. it was not a matter of the edits as such, but the interactions), I generally agree with the ban and do not think that it's invalid or unjustified, and I would say that my demeanor is more civil now, but that's up to others to validate or contradict. If anyone wants to see the discussion, etc., see [https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Wikipedia:Administrators%27_noticeboard&diff=prev&oldid=1236392530 here]. I don't think it's unfair and if anyone has concerns or questions re: that, I am fine with addressing them. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 02:22, 31 May 2026 (UTC) :::Thanks for your reply and patience while I considered my response. You seem to have good insight. I've been looking at some of your edits on wikis where you're already a sysop, and have seen nothing to be alarmed by. In fact, you'd be a valuable addition to the admin team here.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 04:03, 2 June 2026 (UTC) *'''Support''' per above threads.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 04:03, 2 June 2026 (UTC) *'''Support''' my thinking is exactly as stated by @Ground Zero. @Koavf is a responsible user who is a valuable contributor to the site. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:06, 2 June 2026 (UTC) :{{support}} per everyone else. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 00:42, 4 June 2026 (UTC) ::{{re|Ikan Kekek|ThunderingTyphoons!}} Today marks 14 days from the start of the nomination: based on the current discussion, I would consider it a very weak consensus leaning in favor of promotion (5S, 1O, but that 1 oppose was a significant comment). Thoughts on promotion? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:47, 4 June 2026 (UTC) :::It probably depends how strongly IK feels in opposition. Or have [[user:Ikan Kekek|you]] changed your mind at all based on subsequent comments from Justin and other users? --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 02:44, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::I have not. I think both their position on articles started by socks of banned users and their functioning as an admin on Wikitravel until IB removed them as such are problematic. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 09:30, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ==See also== *[[Wikivoyage:User rights nominations/Archives]] ([[Wikivoyage:User rights nominations/Archives/{{CURRENTYEAR}}|current year]]) *[[Wikivoyage:Administrators]] *[[Special:Listusers/sysop|Current administrators]] {{WikivoyageDoc|collaboration}} quopkfkqqmfxsksabjhflylepzrhiy6 5288954 5288948 2026-06-06T23:58:11Z Koavf 36077 /* Koavf (sysop) */ Reply 5288954 wikitext text/x-wiki {{disclaimerbox|{{shortcut|[[WV:RFA]]<br>[[WV:URN]]}} If you believe a [[Wikivoyage:About#Wikivoyagers|Wikivoyager]] – including yourself – should have [[Project:administrators|administrative]] status or any other higher user right, then add that person's username to the ''nominations'' section below. If nominated for permanent administrator, the Wikivoyager should meet the [[Project:Administrators#Becoming an administrator|guidelines for becoming an administrator]]. Generally speaking, they should: * Have been a contributor for at least a few months * Have an extensive knowledge of our [[policies]] * Have a history of article contribution, [[Wikivoyage:Non-administrator tasks|janitorial work]], cleaning up articles, contributing to policy discussions, and combating vandalism/spam * Have a demonstrated ability to work with the community '''Nominations must include a short statement outlining the nominee's eligibility in terms of these requirements.''' When responding to a nomination, most people choose to express their opinion with a bolded word or phrase, most often '''Support''' or '''Not yet''', followed by an explanation of the opinion. After 14 days, a [[Wikivoyage:Bureaucrats|bureaucrat]] will close the discussion and, if there is a [[Wikivoyage:Consensus|consensus]] that the nominee would make a good administrator, grant the administrator flag using [[Special:UserRights]]. [[Wikivoyage:Bureaucrats|Bureaucrats]], [[Wikivoyage:Interface administrators|interface admins]] and [[Wikivoyage:Checkuser|checkusers]] should also be nominated here. Users running for interface administrator must also confirm that they have [[Wikivoyage:Two-factor authentication|2FA]] enabled before they are promoted as per WMF policy. If this is not done, the request will be closed as unsuccessful. <h3>Temporary permissions</h3> Most requests on this page will go for 14 days and all will have a nomination period of 14 days, with the exception of temporary permissions, which may be granted no earlier than 7 days after the nomination was made if there are no outstanding questions or objections. An objection or question raised on the sixth day would automatically keep the nomination open (without temporary permission) for the full 14 days unless the matter was resolved before then. The nomination would always be open for 14 days so in some cases editors could comment after they have seen a couple of days of use of the temporary permission. }} ==Nominations== ===[[User:Koavf|Koavf]] (sysop)=== Hello, everyone! At a time where we seem to have ever-increasingly fewer active admins, the need for more admins who have a core fundamental understanding of the project is critical. Koavf, for one, is well versed and accustomed to this site's policies and practices. They've been an admin on various editions of Wikitravel (though it seems they're no longer an admin there due to IB doing IB stuff), an admin and checkuser on Wikispecies, in addition to being an admin on enwiktionary, mulwikisource, enwikiversity, Wikitech and Wikimedia Outreach. They're also a global rollbacker for added measure. They've already accepted the nomination on [[User talk:Koavf|their talk page]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:29, 21 May 2026 (UTC) * {{s}} as nominator. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:29, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *Hi, [[User:Koavf|Koavf]], and thanks for being willing to grab a broom and dustpan. I can't find the discussions right away, and forgive me if my memory is mistaken, but I believe we've had disagreements about userbans or at least deletion of material added by banned users or socks of same before, notably including users banned for racism and bigotry. Is my memory correct? If so, I would have to oppose this nomination, because having admins who don't believe in enforcing bans on users banned for bigotry adding more material would be corrosive to the site. My other concern would be for you to address your current attitude toward Wikitravel and IB. Are you no longer an admin there because they desysopped you, or did you decide at any point that IB is not a good-faith actor and you should therefore not have continued to associate yourself with them? By the way, how long after the fork did you continue to participate on Wikitravel? All of this is important because admins need to be clearly established not to be potential security risks. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:34, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *:The dispute was a little more subtle than that. You and I agree that 1.) bigots have no place here and 2.) blocked users should not edit here until/unless being unblocked. Where we disagreed was that an editor who was blocked for some gross racism came back via an IP and made some innocuous edits and was then discovered and blocked. You argued that we should revert all of <em>those</em> edits and I argued that undoing them [[ttcf|does not help the traveler]], so we should leave them (they were of the sort "Cafe X closes opens at 8:00 on Thursdays"). If you think that is disqualifying as an admin, then you are, of course, entitled to think that, but it definitely wasn't that I was giving cover for bigots to be here or for any blocked users to keep on editing surreptitiously. I agree that either of those is disqualifying. As for Wikitravel, I mostly deleted spam (probably on the order of a thousand pages) and reverted vandalism for a while until Internet Brands just decided that the only users who could be admins were their employees but also some users who weren't? I think I was the only person de-sysopped and they never told me why. Certainly seems bad faith to me. As for how long after the fork, I just continued occasionally editing there as I had for years. I have made many more actual contributions to this site since it was adopted by the WMF. For the time when I was an admin there, I presented myself as a kind of unofficial liaison to this community, which is where I'm more invested and motivated to do work. I hope that helps. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 17:13, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *::I think we should look at relevant threads. Do you remember which articles were nominated for deletion for being added or edited by socks of a banned user or where the discussion was? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:07, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *:::Also, yes, I think that opposing the deletion of all edits by socks of users after they have been banned for bigotry is disqualifying, because that means that you believe banned users should actually be permitted to effectively not be banned. I'll listen to arguments, but my opening position, at least, is to '''oppose''' this nomination. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:11, 21 May 2026 (UTC) *::::Sure. I understand your position and don't want to relitigate it or bicker with you about your vote, but since you solicited the thread, etc. it was [[Fügen]], which was <del>kept</del><ins>deleted and later created by someone else who is not a banned user</ins> and a bunch of poor quality guides that were deleted. To sum up [[Wikivoyage:Votes_for_deletion/October_2022#Other_articles_created_by_87.74.196.200|my view at the time]], which has not changed: *:::::I am not arguing in favor of someone being allowed to get around a ban: he's banned and banned with good reason. Ikan Kekek, ''how'' are travelers to [[Fügen]] helped by us deleting this usable guide? Who would come here looking for information about this destination, find that we had information about it that we deleted, and think, "Wow, I'm definitely being helped"? I am not proposing any change to policy. [https://www.vulture.com/2020/02/mcdonalds-monopoly-game-fraud-true-story.html If someone robs a bank and then gives the money to a children's hospital, you don't take medicine from the children, but you do stop that person from robbing the bank in the future]. I can't believe that I have to clarify this, but no one here is advocating that anti-Semitism is okay or that anti-Semites who otherwise make good content should be allowed to have some edits be okay, but just the bigoted ones not be: users who spread vile hate should be blocked. But if they have already contributed useful information to the travel guide and said information does not include their hateful prejudice, then it doesn't help anyone to remove it. '''If a user here who has been constructive for several years all of the sudden goes on some vile rant about a minority group, we wouldn't retroactively get rid of the good things that person added to free knowledge and culture.''' ::::For those who don't want to re-read the entirety of the thread, the added bold was basically the core of my point: removing constructive edits does not help the traveler and the core of our mission is [[ttcf]]. I can see how a reasonable person would disagree and I definitely agree in principle that bigots and Nazis should all stay off the Internet and follow their dear leader in the bunker. I just don't see how removing valid, useful material that is objectively true and has nothing to do with hate speech gives this travel guide more utility for travelers. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 21:07, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :::::And people who read the discussion will note that you advocated keeping an article started by a sock of a banned user. We have to "relitigate" the case because you are being nominated to be an admin, and admins have to uphold policy and not engage in corrosive arguments that damage the site. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:18, 21 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::By "relitigate" I simply meant that I didn't want to argue with your rationale: you are entitled to it and you have every right to air whatever concerns you have. I am happy to answer questions, etc. and don't want to be defensive or try to cut off criticism at the pass. I am in favor of our current policy and do not propose any change to it. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 21:22, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::There was nothing retroactive about this. It concerned an article started by a sock of a banned user well after they were banned. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 09:27, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::By "retroactive", I mean that the article existed and had useful information. Taking that useful information out of the travel guide once it was discovered that the IP address was actually a banned user is not helpful for travelers. The sock didn't start out by announcing that he's a sockpuppet, so it was only after it was discovered that someone proposed deleting useful information due to the personality of who added it. Again, my question stands: if we find out that someone is a sockpuppet after 20&nbsp;years, do you propose that we go back and remove tens of thousands of useful edits on principle? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 09:45, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::That's site policy, not merely a proposal. Banned means banned. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:13, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::We have [[:Category:Wikivoyage policies|88 policies]]. Which of those obliges us to delete material made by banned users? [[Wikivoyage:Office actions]] and [[Wikivoyage:Oversight]] are about certain kinds of deletion, but not related to banned users. [[Wikivoyage:Topic bans]] says nothing about deletion. [[Wikivoyage:Deletion policy]] says nothing about banned users. The most appropriate policy page would be [[Wikivoyage:How to handle unwanted edits]] and nothing there obliges us to delete all material added by sockpuppets of banned users. Which policy page am I missing or misunderstanding here? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 10:28, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::The one that was reaffirmed by the thread we've been discussing. Don't try to make this into a personal proposal by me. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:41, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::I'm not suggesting that. I'm asking you to link to which of the 88 policy pages we have that obliges us to delete pages created by banned users. I'm a fallible person, I can certainly be ignorant or miss things or not understand things. You wrote that the site's policy is to delete pages created by banned users and I'm asking you which of our policies that is. I have no other agenda. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 10:52, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::Do you recognize that some policies are determined and reaffirmed in discussions on policy pages such as Votes for deletion? Not all settled matters of policy or practice are spelled out otherwise. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:26, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::A general way of doing things can spontaneously emerge and the decision to make a single action like deleting a page can be determined ad hoc by a discussion. Formalizing a policy is done by making a guideline, refining it with consensus, and then finalizing it and adding it to [[Wikivoyage:Policies]]. Yes, it is true that due to the consensus at that discussion, admins were obliged to delete that page. Were I am admin, I would delete a page that there was consensus to delete, even if I personally didn't think it should be deleted. There is not a site-wide policy to delete pages created by banned users and that discussion did not make a policy to do so, even if it could be used as precedent for future policy. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 11:31, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::::And if such a formal policy were proposed, we would get the same kind of arguments from a few dissenters and damage the site again...nevertheless, much as common law exists that is not spelled out in constitutions, the consensus, reaffirmed several times, is as shown in that thread, and I don't look forward to any possibility of reading rationalizations from a minority of long-term users including an additional admin for why we should let users banned for gross bigotry get around bans in the future. I don't think we'll get a commitment from you not to repeat the arguments you've stated in this thread that you still hold, so why in the world would I as a self-respecting Jew who also takes umbrage at attacks on Africans, Arabs and Muslims support your nomination? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:46, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::I can't answer that for you, but I commit to abiding by, and if given the opportunity, enforcing the site's policies as best as I can and understand them. I remain of the opinion that banned users should not be allowed to get around bans and had a very long conversation about exactly this on en.wikt that got escalated all the way to stewards ultimately intervening because I continued to block a banned user. I do not support banned users contributing directly or by proxy to any wiki where they are blocked. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 11:54, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::::::But you believe that after some unspecified amount of time, the edits of socks of banned users should be allowed to stand. So just how long a time is that? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:26, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::::It's not a matter of time, but utility. If someone adds useful information, I would not be in favor of removing that useful information if I found out that it was added by a banned user. You disagree. I think your perspective is perfectly reasonable and I can understand why someone would have it, particularly in the case of some gross bigot. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 12:28, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::::::::What does a userban mean, in your opinion? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:03, 6 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::::::A person behind an account is barred from editing until or unless the ban is lifted. This includes any editing by proxy or inducing someone else or edit on the person's behalf. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 18:34, 6 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::::::::::Except when you find the text they thus added to be useful? Sorry to belabor the point, but I really fail to see how you actually believe in userbans. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:34, 6 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::::::::No, that person is still banned from editing. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 23:58, 6 June 2026 (UTC) * {{s}} Koavf has explained their rationale on the Fügen issue. I do not think that that issue alone is sufficient for denying Wikivoyage the benefit of having another experienced and capable administrator. Sometimes we disagree, and we can talk through these disagreements. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 00:38, 22 May 2026 (UTC) * {{s}} - what's most important is whether Koavf will apply Wikivoyage's existing rules and policies correctly and fairly, which I trust him to do so. I don't see his opinions on an ethical grey area, i.e. should constructive edits made by a banned or bigoted user which benefit the traveller but can be seen as acquiescence to the bigotry be removed in totality, as particularly relevant to how he will perform as an admin. I'm sure he will respect consensus on the issue. [[User:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">Gizza</span>]]^{(<i>[[User_talk:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">roam</span>]]</i>)} 02:51, 22 May 2026 (UTC) * '''Comment''' - I agree with GZ and Gizza that differences of opinion are absolutely fine for an admin and that respecting consensus is what's important. Everything I remember of Justin's long edit history on Wikivoyage is that he always respects consensus. Giving him the admin tools will not enable him to change the policy he disagreed with, but it will help Wikivoyage in many other ways. As someone who isn't around as much as I should be, I welcome Justin's willingness to take on some extra responsibilities. :{{ping|Koavf}} One thing I want to ask you about is your siteban on English Wikipedia (since July 2024). What is your understanding of the reason for your ban, do you agree, and has your mindset changed since then? To my recollection, there have never been similar questions about you on Wikivoyage, and I hope you don't think it unfair of me to bring it up, but I still think it warrants addressing before the community gives you the keys to the big toolbox.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 01:53, 31 May 2026 (UTC) ::I would characterize the reason as being generally uncivil and difficult (i.e. it was not a matter of the edits as such, but the interactions), I generally agree with the ban and do not think that it's invalid or unjustified, and I would say that my demeanor is more civil now, but that's up to others to validate or contradict. If anyone wants to see the discussion, etc., see [https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Wikipedia:Administrators%27_noticeboard&diff=prev&oldid=1236392530 here]. I don't think it's unfair and if anyone has concerns or questions re: that, I am fine with addressing them. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 02:22, 31 May 2026 (UTC) :::Thanks for your reply and patience while I considered my response. You seem to have good insight. I've been looking at some of your edits on wikis where you're already a sysop, and have seen nothing to be alarmed by. In fact, you'd be a valuable addition to the admin team here.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 04:03, 2 June 2026 (UTC) *'''Support''' per above threads.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 04:03, 2 June 2026 (UTC) *'''Support''' my thinking is exactly as stated by @Ground Zero. @Koavf is a responsible user who is a valuable contributor to the site. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:06, 2 June 2026 (UTC) :{{support}} per everyone else. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 00:42, 4 June 2026 (UTC) ::{{re|Ikan Kekek|ThunderingTyphoons!}} Today marks 14 days from the start of the nomination: based on the current discussion, I would consider it a very weak consensus leaning in favor of promotion (5S, 1O, but that 1 oppose was a significant comment). Thoughts on promotion? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:47, 4 June 2026 (UTC) :::It probably depends how strongly IK feels in opposition. Or have [[user:Ikan Kekek|you]] changed your mind at all based on subsequent comments from Justin and other users? --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 02:44, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::I have not. I think both their position on articles started by socks of banned users and their functioning as an admin on Wikitravel until IB removed them as such are problematic. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 09:30, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ==See also== *[[Wikivoyage:User rights nominations/Archives]] ([[Wikivoyage:User rights nominations/Archives/{{CURRENTYEAR}}|current year]]) *[[Wikivoyage:Administrators]] *[[Special:Listusers/sysop|Current administrators]] {{WikivoyageDoc|collaboration}} aks88xf20tkvcmedmn2vje61mcnde1p 0 68791 5288880 5287191 2026-06-06T15:12:24Z Ypsilon 1806 5288880 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wikivoyage Photomontage banner.jpg}} The '''Discover''' page is an '''archive''' of about strange but true trivia about destinations around the world, '''previously featured''' in the Discover section on the main page. You can contribute and add or edit future facts to the list '''[[Project:Discover|here]]'''. Previously displayed facts from this year are below. You can find older facts from previous years using the [[#Old discoveries|links at the bottom of the page]]. ==June 2026== [[File:MonkeyAtKagamega.JPG|right|200px]] * The [[Kakamega Rainforest]] (''pictured'') along the nation's western border is '''all that remains of Kenya's rainforests''' which once spanned the nation all the way to the Indian Ocean. * The town of [[El Valle]] in [[Panama]] is actually ''inside'' the '''caldera of a [[Volcanoes|volcano]]'''. * The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in [[Muscat]] features the '''second largest hand made Persian carpet in the world'''. [[File:20110530 Metra.JPG|right|200px]] * The Metra '''commuter train system''' in [[Chicagoland]] (''train pictured'') is one of the '''most connected and advanced''' in the United States. * Inscriptions on the Mausoleum of General Józef Bem in [[Tarnów]] are '''written in Polish, Hungarian, and Arabic''' to honor him for fighting for independence in Poland and Hungary and his conversion to Islam in Aleppo. * The '''entire town''' of [[Sewanee]], including residential areas, lakes, and forest, is '''owned by the University of the South'''. <br clear="right" /> ==May 2026== [[File:Isimila Stone age.jpg|right|200px]] * The Isimila Stone Age Site in [[Iringa]] features '''over 30 meter tall natural stone pillars''' (''pictured''), created from thousands of years of water and wind erosion. * There is '''no road connection''' through the [[Darién Gap]] connecting North America with South America and it is the '''missing link''' of the Pan-American Highway. * One of Portugal's historical jewels, [[Tomar]] was '''founded by the Knights Templar'''. [[File:Central bendigo from botanic gardens.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Bendigo]] (''pictured'') is known for its '''grand Victorian architecture''', built during the gold rush of the mid-19th century. * As a Buddhist country, the [[Thai phrasebook|Thai language]] has been '''strongly influenced''' by Sanskrit and Pali. * The Cavaleriemuseum in [[Amersfoort]] presents '''early and modern cavalry of the Dutch army''', spanning more than four centuries. [[File:Gjoa Haven, Nunavut (13431547394).jpg|right|200px]] * Uqsuqtuuq, the Inuktitut name of [[Gjoa Haven]] (''pictured'') means '''"lots of fat"''', referring to the abundance of sea mammals in the nearby waters. * At the Correctional Services Museum in [[Pretoria]] you can learn about the '''development of the penal system in South Africa''' from the most barbaric methods to the modern penological system of today. * [[Udawalawe National Park]] is famous for its '''large wild elephant population''', making an excellent destination for safari-style tours. [[File:Castle-of-Häme-entrance-bridge-over-moat.jpg|right|200px]] * The '''medieval Häme Castle''' (''pictured'') is not just the symbol and main attraction of [[Hämeenlinna]], the city is '''named after it'''. * In [[Puerto Maldonado]] you can visit a '''Rescue Snake House.''' * When '''buying [[travel insurance]]''', you should review the dates of coverage, whether it protects you enough financially, and the exclusions. [[File:Burgberg Afyonkarahisar 04.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Afyonkarahisar]] means "opium black fortress" and the city indeed is in an '''opium growing area''' and has a '''fortress''' (''pictured'') perched on a '''black volcanic crag'''. * [[La Tuque]] was '''named''' after a nearby rock formation that resembles the '''famous French Canadian hat'''. * Many of Japan's draws are '''[[Arts in Japan|distinct types of arts and culture]]''' from bunraku theater to J-pop. [[File:Mont St Michel 3, Brittany, France - July 2011.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Mont Saint-Michel]] (''pictured'') is best known as the site of the spectacular and well-preserved '''Norman Benedictine Abbey of St Michel''' at the peak of the rocky island. * One activity in [[Langmusi]] is '''horse trekking''' into the beautiful surrounding grasslands, hills, and valleys. * The Tchimpounga Animal Sanctuary in [[Pointe-Noire]] is a '''chimpanzee sanctuary''' for rescued primates who have been caught up in illegal bushmeat trade. [[File:Khar Zakh (Black Market), Ulan Bator, Mongolia.jpg|right|200px]] * At the '''Naran Tuul market''' in [[Ulaanbaatar]] you can haggle over cheap clothes, toys, fur hats, vintage Soviet propaganda pins, or anything you can imagine (''merchandise pictured''). * [[Lewis|Lewis and Harris]] is the '''third largest island in the British Archipelago''', only Great Britain and Ireland being larger. * There are '''two main versions of [[rugby football]]''': rugby union with 15 players a side (with a 7-a-side variant), and rugby league with 13 players a side. [[File:Southwest Dairy Museum September 2015 01.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Sulphur Springs]] is known as "The Dairy Capital of Texas", with a museum (''pictured'') cultured to that very point, even if the dairy industry has waned a bit around here. * By Indian standards, '''[[Hyderabad]]'s monuments are not very old''', which means that they are better preserved. * The '''wooden roof''' of the 11th century [[Ancona]] Cathedral is in the '''shape of an upside-down boat'''. [[File:Cairo tower by dungodung.jpg|right|200px]] * Reaching a height of 187 m, and visible from most of downtown Cairo, the '''[[Cairo/Gezira|Cairo Tower]]''' (''pictured'') offers '''great day and night views''' over the city and to the Pyramids. * The '''Canadian Canoe Museum''' in [[Peterborough (Ontario)|Peterborough, Ontario]] displays watercraft from Canada and around the world, plus exhibits on the role canoes and kayaks have played in Canada. * The old state penitentiary of [[Mulegé]] was a '''jail without bars''' - the prisoners could go out to work during the day, they just had to be back at night. [[File:YBF 2010 - Bikini Bar perjantaina.jpg|right|200px]] * The Yyteri beach (''pictured'') in [[Pori]] is one of the '''largest''' and certainly one of the '''best beaches in Finland'''. * In the largest cities, there is often one neighbourhood which was '''traditionally a [[LGBT travel|"gay village"]]'''. * The '''Evil Clown of [[Middletown (New Jersey)|Middletown]]''' is a large outdoor sign, advertising a liquor store. [[File:Takkoku no Iwaya.JPG|right|200px]] * Takkoku no Iwaya Bishamon-dō (''pictured'') in [[Hiraizumi]] is '''dedicated to Bishamon, the god of war''', but was called Iwaya Bishamondo — a place to '''pray for peace'''. <br clear="right" /> ==April 2026== * The natural area of [[Laguna de Rocha]] is intended to provide a '''protected habitat for wildlife''' and as such has '''no developed infrastructure''' for travelers. * There are many '''phonological and lexical differences''' between the [[French]] spoken in Quebec and that spoken in France. [[File:Peshawarkawa.JPG|right|200px]] * [[Peshawar]] is known for its '''Kawa''' (''green tea, pictured'') which has a unique flavour, and is usually served sweet. * The Eden sculpture in [[Buffalo/Elmwood_Village|Buffalo's Elmwood Village]] is one of '''three identical sculptures cast from the same mold.''' * When it comes to lodging, there are '''no budget options''' in [[Djibouti (city)|Djibouti city]] - because accommodation is very expensive for what you get. [[File:Dortmunder Unionbrauerei.jpg|right|200px]] * One [[Dortmund]]'s most iconic landmarks is the '''Dortmunder U''' (''pictured''), a high-rise former brewery building built in 1927. * Founded in 1551, [[Vitória]] is the '''third oldest capital of Brazil''', after Salvador and Recife. * Different '''Colorado University sports teams''' are among [[Boulder]]'s best-known attractions. [[File:Lascar Parliament House (Hobart) (4551936219).jpg|right|200px]] * The Parliament House of Tasmania (''pictured'') in [[Hobart]] was '''built to serve as a customs house'''. * Canton Fair, the '''largest trade fair in China''', is held in [[Guangzhou/Haizhu|Guangzhou]] several times a year. * The '''earliest [[fortifications]]''' were most likely additions to an already defensible positions afforded by natural topography. [[File:Confluence of Alsek and Tatshenshini rivers.JPG|right|200px]] * [[Tatshenshini-Alsek Provincial Park|Tatshenshini-Alsek]] (''landscape pictured'') was one of the '''last areas''' of British Columbia to be mapped and explored. * [[Chad]] is the quintessential destination to '''experience the Sahara desert'''. * The building of the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum in [[Baku]] is itself '''shaped as a carpet'''. [[File:RO PH Ploiesti clock museum 1.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Ploiești]]'s Clock Museum (''pictured'') features a collection of '''over 1000 sundials, astronomical clocks & vintage watches'''. * Many '''[[monarchies]]''' have only '''survived''' through buildings, written records, and archaeological remnants. * Until 1969 the '''One o'Clock Gun''' in [[Birkenhead]] was controlled from Bidston Observatory, and used to '''set the marine chronometers''' of ships on the Mersey. [[File:NZ140315 Gore Trout.jpg|right|200px]] * The Brown Trout Statue (''pictured'') that stands at the entrance of the town was built to declare [[Gore]] as the '''World Capital of Brown Trout Fishing'''. * Snow tubing in [[Tsaghkadzor]] has all the fun with none of the hill-climbing, thanks to the '''rope engine that pulls you and your tube back to the top from the bottom of the run'''. * If you're in downtown [[Mexico City/Centro|Mexico City]] and need to put a curse on someone, you'll want to visit the '''Mercado de Sonora''' which has a reputation as the place where witches and sorcerers can shop for all their nefarious voodoo magic needs. [[File:2016 Singapur, Ogrody botaniczne (392).jpg|right|200px]] * A British tropical gardens remaining nearly unchanged for over 100 years, the '''Botanic Gardens''' (''pictured'') are [[Singapore/North and West|Singapore]]'s only UNESCO [[World Heritage Site]]. * True to its nickname "'''the town in the lava'''", [[Hafnarfjörður]] was built over a lava field with many lava formations visible around the town. * The Malay Technology Museum in [[Bandar Seri Begawan]] has many exhibits featuring the '''different styles of houses''' and the lifestyle of those who live in '''water villages'''. [[File:Shizutani school the Hall.JPG|right|200px]] * The Shizutani School (''pictured'') in [[Bizen]] is said to be the '''world's first integrated school''' where all classes from samurai to farmer were welcome. * The '''monkey grave''' at Donovan's Hotel in [[Clonakilty]] honors Tojo the monkey who '''died here drinking rum''' just 24-hours after he and his American owner survived crash-landing a plane nearby in WWII. * The Frank DeRosa Railroad Museum in [[Havre]] showcases how the town '''moved all businesses into basements connected by tunnels''' after a fire destroyed everything above ground in 1904. [[File:Gol Gumbaz, Bijapur 1.jpg|right|200px]] * Gol Gumbaz (''pictured'') in [[Bijapur (Karnataka)|Bijapur]] is a 17th century mausoleum housing the '''second-largest unsupported dome in the world.''' * The Whoosh train of [[Indonesia]] is '''the first high speed train in the Southern Hemisphere'''. * The waters of the Gulf of Mexico on the northern Yucatan coast are so shallow that docks must be built longer...like the 6.5-km pier in [[Progreso]], '''the longest pier in the world'''. [[File:Standing out - panoramio (1).jpg|right|200px]] * Point Moore Lighthouse (''pictured'') in [[Geraldton]], Western Australia, was '''built in Birmingham, England''' and '''shipped out in sections''' for local assembly. <br clear="right" /> ==March 2026== * For visitors, '''[[driving in India]] is generally to be avoided''', especially in cities, where public transport fare better. * Perhaps surprisingly for a city that's not on an ocean coast, [[Hudson]] gained its wealth in the 19th century from '''whaling'''. [[File:HunyadCastle.jpg|right|200px]] * Hunyad Castle (''pictured'') in [[Hunedoara_(city)|Hunedoara]] is believed to be where Vlad III of Wallachia (commonly known as '''Vlad the Impaler''') was '''held prisoner''' after he was deposed in 1462. * [[Fort Lauderdale]] was known as ''the'' '''college spring break destination''' in the 1960s-1980s, now it's more of a family destination. * [[San Felipe]] is known as the '''birthplace of the fish taco'''. [[File:Lutherhaus DSCN3667.jpg|right|200px]] * One of the oldest surviving half-timbered houses in Thuringia is the '''Lutherhaus''' (''pictured'') in [[Eisenach]], where Martin Luther lived as a child. * Anarkali bazaar in [[Lahore]] was named after a courtesan who was '''buried alive for loving a prince'''. * [[Sicamous]] is known as the '''Houseboat Capital of Canada'''. [[File:Oscypki.jpg|right|200px]] * A local speciality of [[Zakopane]] is '''oscypek''' (''pictured''), smoked sheep's milk cheese. * The Basilica of Santo Niño in [[Cebu City]] contains a statue of the Santo Niño (Holy Child), regarded as the '''oldest religious relic in the Philippines.''' * There are '''two main versions or [[rugby football]]''': rugby union with 15 players a side, and rugby league with 13 players a side. [[File:Asuncion Cabildo.JPG|right|200px]] * The '''former Paraguayan congress building''' in [[Asunción]] is now named '''Centro Cultural El Cabildo''' (''pictured'') - a museum with exhibitions related to the country's history and culture. * Fort James in [[Accra]] is notable for being the prison where '''Kwame Nkrumah was kept for a year before his presidency'''. * In the '''Kingdom of Debao Pony''' outside [[Jingxi]] you can get close up with the small local Debao ponies. [[File:Australia litchfield magnetic termite mounds.jpg|right|200px]] * The magnetic termite mounds (''pictured'') of [[Litchfield National Park]] are '''aligned north to south''' to warm the nest as much as possible, as the larger faces are to the east and west. * Studying [[Scottish Gaelic phrasebook|Gaelic]] may '''increase your enjoyment''' of a visit to the Scottish Highlands and Hebrides. * The [[Yazd]] Water Museum presents the '''Canat water distribution system'''. [[File:Scala dei Turchi.jpg|right|200px]] * Scala dei Turchi (''pictured'') in [[Porto Empedocle]] is an '''offshoot of white marl rock protruding prominently into the sea''', forming a strong contrast with the blue sea and sky. * Liberty State Park in [[Jersey City]] offers '''unsurpassed views''' of Manhattan, Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. * [[Dengue fever]] is a '''major public health problem''' throughout Southeast and South Asia, but prevalent throughout most of the tropics. [[File:Dubai Airport DutyFree.JPG|right|200px]] * [[Dubai International Airport]] (''interior pictured'') is one of the few that has '''non-stop flights to all inhabited continents'''. * Not all '''[[paleontology]]''' involves fossils. * Connecting Dar es Salaam to Kapiri Mposhi, the [[TAZARA Railway]] is an '''experience in itself''' rather than just a way of transport. [[File:Leavenworth, WA , USA - panoramio (2).jpg|right|200px]] * In the 1960s plans were laid up to transform, [[Leavenworth (Washington)|Leavenworth, Washington]] into a '''mock Bavarian village''' (''town view pictured''). * The [[Brotherhood and Unity Highway]] passes '''next to the airports of all four national capitals''' along it. * In [[Santana do Livramento]] you can stand on Praça Internacional with '''one foot in Brazil and the other in Uruguay'''. [[File:Kepulauan Seribu Utara.JPG|right|200px]] * The [[Thousand Islands (Indonesia)|Thousand Islands]] (''aerial view pictured'') outside Jakarta '''is made up of just 110 islands'''. * [[Kazan]] features a '''Soviet Lifestyle Museum'''. * The former '''Swiss-German border fence''' in [[Konstanz]] is now replaced with a series of '''22 sculptures representing the trumps of the tarot''', the "Great Arkana". [[File:Ventas rapid kuldiga latvia.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Kuldīga]] features both the '''widest waterfall''' (''pictured'') and '''longest brick road bridge in Europe'''. * [[Across Australia by train|Trains across Australia]] are '''not high-speed''', but slow, laid back and luxurious services that know how to '''take their time''' and let you '''enjoy the scenery'''. <br clear="right" /> ==February 2026== * Taking place during the first month of the lunar calendar, the Spring Festival in [[Xingyi]] is '''made up of many smaller festivals''' by the peoples living in the city. [[File:Uffizi Gallery - Daughter of Niobe bent by terror.jpg|right|200px]] * Now a renowned fine art museum, '''Galleria degli Uffizi''' (''interior pictured'') in [[Florence]] translates to "Gallery of the offices" as the building first served as the '''magistrates' offices and state archives'''. * First celebrated in 1737, the current incarnation of the '''St. Patrick's Day Parade in [[Boston/South Boston|South Boston]]''' has been running every year since 1901. * Rosenfeld Palace in [[Žilina]] is described as one of the '''most beautiful art nouveau palaces''' in Slovakia. [[File:Nogodan at Jirisan, Korea 03.JPG|right|200px]] * Nogodan Peak in [[Jirisan National Park]] is famous for the '''azaleas''' (''pictured'') on its slopes. * The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery in [[New Plymouth]] has one of New Zealand's '''finest collections of modern art'''. * When arriving at a major airport or city-centre railway station, '''avoid [[taxis|taxi touts]]''' in the arrival hall and only use the official taxi stand. [[File:Catedral de Cuernavaca, Morelos.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Cuernavaca]] Cathedral is a '''beautiful colonial cathedral''' (''interior pictured'') full of murals and paintings, many dating to the 17th century. * Mazargues War Cemetery in [[Marseille]] is the final resting place for mainly '''Indian and Chinese soldiers fighting for the Allies''' in both world wars. * [[Uganda]] was nicknamed the '''"Pearl of Africa"''' by Winston Churchill. [[File:WatPhraKaeoJadeBuddha.jpg|right|200px]] * Wat Phra Kaew in [[Chiang Rai]] once hosted the '''Emerald Buddha''', one of the most famous Buddha images in Thailand, now you can see a '''replica''' (''pictured'') there. * Garajonay National Park on [[La Gomera]] protects the '''largest laurel rainforest remaining on Earth''', said to be "'''almost as old as the island itself'''". * A minority dialect spoken in [[Charleston (South Carolina)|Charleston, South Carolina]] is '''Gullah''', a dialect of English '''almost incomprehensible''' to most English speakers. [[File:Mavzolej na lovcheni.jpg|right|200px]] * On the top of [[Lovćen National Park|Mount Lovćen]] there's a '''mausoleum''' (''pictured'') where the '''poet Petar II Petrović Njegoš''' is buried. * [[Hindi]]'s '''retroflex consonants''' are not really found in English. * While the '''180th meridian''' cuts straight through the island nation of [[Kiribati]], all the country is on the same day as the International Date Line has been '''drawn east of them all'''. [[File:Pisco distillery - Chile.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Vicuña]] is a major center for producing '''pisco''' (''interior of a distillery pictured''), a kind of brandy. * Each October there's an '''annual scarecrow contest''' in [[Sturbridge]]. * With an area of 3,600,000 ha (36,000 km2 (14,000 sq mi)), [[Munga-Thirri–Simpson Desert National Park]] is '''Australia's largest national park.''' [[File:Lanercost Priory from SE.jpg|right|200px]] * Being close to a '''quarrelsome border''', [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Lanercost]] Priory (''pictured'') was '''raided''' by the Scots, and '''Edward I stayed here''' several times. * [[Hechi]] is '''famous for its tea''', especially the Hongshui tea from the Hongshui River region. * '''[[Tour cycling|Cycling for extended periods]]''' requires somewhat more than a basic set of wheels. [[File:Atomium Belgium 1.jpg|right|200px]] * Built for the '''1958 Worlds Fair''' in [[Brussels/Heysel|Brussels]], Atomium (''pictured'') houses a '''permanent exhibition''' about the event. * [[Benguela]] was long the '''centre of the slave trade''' from Angola to Brazil and Cuba. * '''One of two royal complexes extant in China''' today, Mukden Palace in [[Shenyang]] is a World Heritage Site alongside the palace in Beijing. [[File:Fort Fredrick04.jpg|right|200px]] * '''Spotted deer''' (''pictured'') wander around Fort Fredrick in [[Trincomalee]], apparently descendents of '''a pair kept as pets''' by an English family in the 1800s. * [[Graz]] is '''home to six universities''', and is associated with names as illustrious as Johannes Kepler, Erwin Schrödinger and Nikola Tesla. * '''Getting around''' [[Vanuatu]] is always an '''adventure''' - leave plenty of room in your plans. <br clear="right" /> ==January 2026== [[File:Kamenný les - Shilin - panoramio.jpg|right|200px]] * In the Major Stone Forest (''pictured'') in [[Shilin]] it's '''easy to lose the crowds''' as you wander around between the stones. * [[Manila/Binondo|Binondo]] in Manila is the '''oldest Chinatown in the world'''. * Palacio Polentinos in [[Ávila]] is a '''museum of Spanish army logistics''' in a Renaissance palace. [[File:Kriva Palanka.JPG|right|200px]] * The Osogovo Monastery (''pictured'') in [[Kriva Palanka]] was to be '''destroyed''' by the Ottomans during the Austro-Ottoman War of 1690 - according to legend they spared it after becoming '''overpowered by some spiritual force'''. * [[Salcajá]] has a great many shops '''selling traditional Maya textiles''' that are used to make the cortes (skirts) worn by Maya women. * To make returning home more pleasant, there are some '''[[Getting ready to leave|things that are worth doing before leaving for a voyage]]'''. [[File:GanongFactory.JPG|right|200px]] * [[St. Stephen]] is known as '''"Canada's Chocolate Town"''' and features a chocolate museum in a former candy factory (''pictured''). * One of the '''holiest cities''' in India, [[Prayagraj]] is famous for the Hindu pilgrimage Kumbh Mela, '''attended by hundreds of millions of pilgrims'''. * At noon, '''a trumpeter plays the Hejnał''' - a traditional bugle call closely bound to the history of Kraków - from the balcony of the Kraków Gate in [[Lublin]]. [[File:Remains of the Knox Hannynton mansion, which replaced the medieval Chichester castle, Hill of the O'Neill.jpg|right|200px]] * The Hill of the O'Neill (''pictured'') in [[Dungannon]] was the '''seat of power of that dynasty, lords of all they surveyed''' until Elizabethan England encroached. * [[Fiji]] is '''relatively free of disease''' compared to most of the tropics. * [[Calistoga]] was '''founded as a hot springs resort''' in the 1860s by Sam Brannan, '''California's first millionaire'''. [[File:Turtle-Karakorum.jpg|right|200px]] * Two interesting details at the [[Karakorum]] site are the '''two stone turtles''' (''one pictured''). * [[Ranthambhore National Park]] is one of the '''most filmed''' wildlife reserves in the world. * Cuenca translates to "basin", and [[Cuenca (Ecuador)|Cuenca, Ecuador]] is indeed in a '''basin made by a confluence of four rivers'''. [[File:4879 - Brescia - S. Giulia - Vittoria di Brescia - Foto Giovanni Dall'Orto, 25 Giu 2011.jpg|right|200px]] * One of the '''highlights''' of the Santa Giulia monastery in [[Brescia]], now a museum, is the '''Winged Victory of Brescia''' (''pictured''). * The U.S. National WWI Museum and Memorial in [[Kansas City]] is '''America's leading institution dedicated to the Great War'''. * [[Andøya]] Space is '''Norway's only operational space centre''' with several VR games on-site. [[File:CastelulBran.JPG|right|200px]] * [[Bran]] Castle (''pictured'') is '''heavily marketed''' as "Dracula's Castle", though it has '''nothing to do with Vlad Țepeș''' who lately became identified with Dracula. * The main attraction in the Taiwanese town of [[Yuli]] is the Walami trail, a '''historic hiking trail''' once used by the Japanese to '''keep an eye''' on aboriginal villages in the mountains. * The [[Juan Fernández Islands]] are home to a high percentage of '''rare and endemic plants and animals''', and are recognized as a distinct ecoregion. [[File:Caniapiscau Reservoir.jpg|right|200px]] * The main sight of the former mining town of [[Schefferville]] might be the huge Caniapiscau Reservoir (''pictured''), the '''largest body of water in Quebec.''' * [[Studying abroad]] is also an '''opportunity for language learning'''. * The Waterpocket Fold, '''a 100-mile long warp in the Earth's crust''', defines the [[Capitol Reef National Park]]. [[File:Matosvank Interior.JPG|right|200px]] * The ruined '''Matosavank Monastery''' in [[Dilijan]] is not terribly interesting from the outside, but the inside (''pictured'') is a '''cool, moist, green, mossy world''' unto itself. * First documented in 799, Martinskirche in [[Linz]] is regarded as the '''oldest original church''' still in existence in Austria. * The [[Rason]] Special Economic area is in many ways a '''separate country''' from the rest of North Korea. [[File:KLM Asia Boeing 747-400 landing at SXM.jpg|right|200px]] * Planes land and take off '''unusually close overhead to sunbathers''' (''pictured'') at Maho Beach on [[Saint Martin]]. * Catedral Metropolitana Ortodoxa in [[São Paulo/South Central|South Central São Paulo]] is one of the '''few remarkable examples of Byzantine architecture''' in Brazil. * The '''Jordan Pass''' provides free entrance to more than 40 sites in [[Jordan]] within a two-week period, and the cost of your tourist visa is waived if you stay at least 3 nights in the country. [[File:"Kilishi".JPG|right|200px]] * A '''speciality of [[Niger]]''' is kilishi (''pictured''): beef jerky that comes in three flavours: regular, peanut-spiced, and hot-pepper-spiced. <br clear="right" /> ==Old discoveries== *[[Project:Discover/2025|2025]] *[[Project:Discover/2024|2024]] *[[Project:Discover/2023|2023]] *[[Project:Discover/2022|2022]] *[[Project:Discover/2021|2021]] *[[Project:Discover/2020|2020]] *[[Project:Discover/2019|2019]] *[[Project:Discover/2018|2018]] *[[Project:Discover/2017|2017]] *[[Project:Discover/2016|2016]] *[[Project:Discover/2015|2015]] *[[Project:Discover/2014|2014]] *[[Project:Discover/2013|2013]] *[[Project:Discover/2012|2012]] *[[Project:Discover/2011|2011]] *[[Project:Discover/2010|2010]] *[[Project:Discover/2009|2009]] *[[Project:Discover/2008|2008]] *[[Project:Discover/2007|2007]] {{Title-Index page}} ne055z7qi2k65k9fctzy50uim4b24yh 4 69268 5288934 5288648 2026-06-06T19:08:15Z WhatamIdoing 855272 /* Simple version of Wikivoyage */ Reply 5288934 wikitext text/x-wiki <div style="text-align:left; background: var( --wv-optional-color, #f4f7fa); color: var( --color-base ); border: 1px solid #abc; padding: .3em; margin-bottom: 1.5em"> <div style="text-align:center; font-size:300%; line-height: 1; padding: 10px;">'''Welcome to the pub'''</div> {{shortcut|[[WV:Pub]]|[[WV:TP]]}} [[File:QA_icon_clr.svg|right|frameless|150px|link=]] The travellers' pub is for general discussion on Wikivoyage, and the place to ask questions when you're confused, lost, afraid, tired, annoyed, thoughtful, or helpful. To start a new topic, click the "Add topic" tab, so that it gets added '''at the bottom''' of the page, and sign your post by appending four tildes (<nowiki>~~~~</nowiki>) Before asking a question or making a comment: * Have a look at our [[Wikivoyage:Help|Help]], [[Wikivoyage:FAQ|FAQ]] and [[Wikivoyage:Policies|Policies]] pages. * If you are a '''new user''' and you have any questions about using the website, try the [[Wikivoyage:Arrivals lounge|Arrivals lounge]]. * If you have a '''question or suggestion about a particular article''', use the article's [[Project:using talk pages|talk page]] to keep the discussion associated with that article. * If you'd like to '''draw attention to a comment''' to '''get feedback''' from other Wikivoyagers, try [[Wikivoyage:Requests for comment|Requests for comment]]. * If you are '''wanting travel advice on a specific matter''' see the [[Wikivoyage:Tourist office|tourist office]]. * If you have an '''issue you need to bring to the attention of an administrator''', try [[Wikivoyage:Ongoing vandalism|Ongoing vandalism]]. * If you are having a '''problem that you think has to do with the [[mw:|MediaWiki software]]''', please post that on [[phab:|Phabricator]] instead. * If you want to '''celebrate a significant contribution''' to Wikivoyage by yourself or others, hold a party at [[Project:Celebrate a contribution|Celebrate a contribution]]. * Discuss '''issues related to more than one language version''' of Wikivoyage in the [[meta:Wikivoyage/Lounge|Wikivoyage Lounge]] on Meta. * Anything that is '''Nigeria-related''' is now meant to go in the [[Wikivoyage:Nigeria café|Nigeria café]] instead. Anything that is '''Kosovo or Albania related''' is now meant to go in the [[Wikivoyage:Kosovo and Albania cafe|Kosovo and Albania café]] instead. This includes announcements, initiatives, celebrations, and issues with certain articles. You can review old Pub discussions in the [[Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub/Archives]]. '''Pull up a chair and join in the conversation!''' [{{fullurl:Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub|action=edit&section=new}} '''Click here to start a new thread'''] </div> {{WikivoyageDoc|collaboration}} <!-- Discussions start here --> __TOC__ __NEWSECTIONLINK__ == Wikivoyage World Cup 2026 == Hey everyone!   We at Wikimedia Small Projects are excited to suggest bringing the Wikivoyage communities together once more for a event—you know, just in time for the 2026 World Cup! We’re calling it the "Wikivoyage World Cup 2026," and we’d love for you to be part of it. Here are some of our hopes for the event:   * To bring all our active Wikivoyage communities together—especially those speaking Spanish, English (yes, I know this is the right community), and French, since they’re connected to the host countries.   * To team up with local chapters like Wikimedia Mexico, Wikimedia Canada, and the affiliates in the United States.   * To improve existing articles and create new ones about Canada, Mexico, and the United States.   * To have a centralnotice to keep everyone in the loop. We’re thinking of holding the event from June 11 to August 20, so it’s a good idea to start getting things ready now. I know this has [[Talk:2026 FIFA World Cup|come up before]], and I’d really love for you to join us in coordinating the event and reaching out to affiliates and/or volunteers who might be interested. Regards, [[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]] ([[User talk:Lord Ravager|talk]]) 03:03, 25 March 2026 (UTC) :Like last time, I'm happy to judge/evaluate the articles submitted as part of this contest once again. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:36, 25 March 2026 (UTC) ::I support this initiative. I would say that it should be open to all Wikivoyage languages since many dominant national football teams don't use English, French or Spanish (looking at you, Portugal, Brazil and Germany). [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:58, 15 April 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]] Can you let us know when this is set up? [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:54, 19 April 2026 (UTC) :I'm happy to do so... and I'm happy to clean up articles regarding football as well. [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 15:33, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :@[[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]]: Any updates on this btw? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:32, 27 May 2026 (UTC) ::I apologize for the delay. We've been busy with the educational program and the event taking place in Mérida. I'll be contacting the communities in the next few days and requesting CentralNotice to publicize the event. Regards, [[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]] ([[User talk:Lord Ravager|talk]]) 23:36, 2 June 2026 (UTC) == New feature: Travel Tracker (RfC) == IRL procrastination, a random shower thought for better user retention, and 100 or so Gemini prompts (i.e. AI/vibecoding): the results of that led me to create [[Wikivoyage:Travel Tracker]]. It's a personal tool that any logged in user can use to track which countries they've visited. No scripts that need to be installed, just go to [[Special:MyPage/Visited]] and check it out for yourself. Why? Part of what got me hooked into [https://www.jetpunk.com/ Jetpunk] was exactly their country tracker. Many people use online sites to track their travels nowadays. The idea is so that casual users – users that occasionally edit Wikivoyage but only ever so often, perhaps choose to use this travel tracker, then are immediately incentivised to update their travel maps after visiting somewhere new, hopefully also updating some actual articles in the process. The tool still has many teething issues, some that will take time to fix, but it's usable for the most part. Alongside Andree's [[Wikivoyage:Trip Planner|trip planner]], I hope this too can be added to the topbar. I'm also planning on perhaps creating a similar tool for US/Indian/Mexican/Brazilian states, depending on how things go. Any feedback/fixes appreciated and welcome. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:43, 9 April 2026 (UTC) :This works well for me at first glance! (I found one glitch, "Bosnia and Herzegovina" isn't shading for me.) It would be fun to have a way to note regions and cities as well, then I'd probably use it as a "Places I've visited"/"Articles I've worked on" section on my User Page. [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 16:28, 9 April 2026 (UTC) ::The glitch is unfortunately a long-standing property of kartographer - it here are too many regions, it may not display all of them. Also, sometimes the OSM data import breaks. E.g. Thailand shape is quite broken currently, too. -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 19:07, 9 April 2026 (UTC) :::Yeah for the first I've found usually just a hard cache solves that issue. OSM data import breaks yeah I have no idea how to fix that (similar issue with Singapore too). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:47, 9 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Created [[:phab:T422902]] for the Thailand/Singapore issue – seems to be a pretty widespread problem across WMF projects so I def think it's worth this getting looked into by more technical people than us. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:59, 10 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Also have given the tracker a little bit of a revamp in terms of style + few finishing touches (like a numerical counter). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:05, 10 April 2026 (UTC) :For some reason Q38 (Italy) was added twice for me, using purely the editor. Otherwise, nice work :-) -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 19:05, 9 April 2026 (UTC) ::Ah, I see the issue (Estonia mistakenly had the Wikidata item of Italy) – fixed! :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:51, 9 April 2026 (UTC) :::It's a fun tool. To make it more interesting, you could also provide an option to break it down by region (state, province, etc.) for the top ten countries by population or area. [[User:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">Gizza</span>]]^{(<i>[[User_talk:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">roam</span>]]</i>)} 03:23, 10 April 2026 (UTC) :I've added this tool to the topbar – should work in both vector 2010 and vector 2022, but not skins older than that. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:51, 12 April 2026 (UTC) :Wow, that feature works, on Temporary Accounts too. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 12:36, 12 April 2026 (UTC) ::Since temporary accounts only lasts for 90 days from initial creation, @[[User:~2026-69216-3|~2026-69216-3]] you may want to create an account soon because your current temporary account will expire by the end of this month. As for the tool itself, I noticed that your shaded countries don't show up on my end. On the broader picture, I propose that we limit this tool to registered accounts. Otherwise we will potentially have tonnes of abandoned Temporary Account map pages that people can't access after 3 months. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 04:45, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :::I'd go further and say that I don't think temporary accounts should be able to create userspace pages at all for the same reason you mention. Maybe I'll start a separate discussion for that sometime later. But yeah @[[User:~2026-69216-3|~2026-69216-3]] in your case, would recommend doing that (and then perhaps moving your map to your userspace under a registered account). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:17, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::::If they can't create a User: space page, then they'll have a harder time telling us some things that we want to know (ordinary user page content, like languages spoken), and they won't be able to create a sandbox for testing, which could lead to making more mistakes in the mainspace. ::::Also, at the moment, this is not a big problem. [https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Special:RecentChanges?userExpLevel=unregistered&hidebots=1&hidepageedits=1&hidecategorization=1&hideWikibase=1&hidelog=1&hidenewuserlog=1&namespace=2&limit=1000&days=30&urlversion=2 Almost none are being created], and [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?search=prefix%3AUser%3A~202&title=Special:Search&ns0=1 only 14 exist in total]. ::::When we reach the point of having, say, 100 or 500 or some other large number of such pages, I think we could have a generous deletion policy for User: pages, but I don't think we need a wholesale ban. By "generous", I mean that if it's more than, say, a year old and just test edits (or actually problematic in some way), then any admin should feel free to delete it. I do not mean that an admin marks their calendar to search and delete all User: pages because it just annoys the admin's sense of tidiness that ''those'' contributors were allowed to create pages in the User: space. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:41, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :::::Hmm that's true, you do have a point especially because "Draft:" isn't a namespace here. I'll try to think of how else we could solve that issue. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:52, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::That is okay to me. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 00:40, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::Still any particular reason why you haven't just created an account btw? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:42, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::::For me, I have a preference. I would rather edit as temporary user, other than creating the registered or named account. I do not plan to stick around as much in the future. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 20:32, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::::I didn't propose to restrict Temporary Accounts from creating any "User:" pages. I am only proposing restriction on TAs creating the "/visited" pages because they can't stick around past 90 days. From a technical standpoint, is there a way to display a message only to TAs that "hey, you can use this tool locally but if you want to truly save it or show it to friends, you need to register an account"? [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:06, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :I went to see if I could embed this on my main User page. Could you add an easy way to suppress the checkboxes, maybe by a flag on the VisitedMap template? Not only would that make this map embeddable, it would make it harder for me to check boxes on other people's pages! [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 21:14, 12 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Gerode|Gerode]]: You should be able to now embed this on your userpage (just by transcluding <nowiki>{{User:Gerode/Visited}}</nowiki>). Suppressing the checkboxes I've got planned, probably using the abuse filter (since there are ''some'' cases where I think it's okay and I'd rather a warn system over a complete disallow). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:36, 12 April 2026 (UTC) Is there a limit to how many countries the tracker can show? On [[User:Asamboi/Visited|my map]], a bunch of random countries (the UK, France, Spain, Philippines, Laos) are not showing up even though they're selected. [[User:Asamboi|Asamboi]] ([[User talk:Asamboi|talk]]) 03:12, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :Usually it's a cache issue – [[Special:Purge]] should do the trick (they appear for me on your map). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:39, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::I would recommend adding a "refresh" button which functions like it's a purge, with a line telling user to click on the refresh button if the map doesn't update or have countries missing. We can't expect new users to know a special page. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 13:49, 15 April 2026 (UTC) I like this idea (have always thought about it). It also pairs well with [[User:OhanaUnited/Edits around the world challenge|the world editing challenge]]. But at first save Australia and New Zealand weren't shaded until I refresh the page. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 04:35, 13 April 2026 (UTC) : Echoing other comments, this is a nice little gadget, I tried it out the other day. An idea for how to develop it further would be an additional layer for countries the user would like to visit (maybe in green or red?). In addition to Singapore which was mentioned above, also the main part of Morocco does not want to show up. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:26, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::So far I've fixed Thailand and HK on OSM. Singapore should be easy to fix, and I'll have to look into what's causing the issue for [[Serbia]] and [[Morocco]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:51, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :::SG now also fixed. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:05, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::: Uganda is not shown. --[[User:RolandUnger|RolandUnger]] ([[User talk:RolandUnger|talk]]) 05:39, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::::It seems to show for me – you might need to clear your cache or give it a refresh. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:45, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::Serbia's mapping to Kosovo. Let's not start the next world war shall we? :) [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 17:20, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::::I [https://www.openstreetmap.org/changeset/181317764 tried] to fix it last night – ig a waiting game to see how long it'll take for this change to be mirrored here. :P //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:13, 15 April 2026 (UTC) :::::[https://www.openstreetmap.org/changeset/181357478#map=6/28.61/-9.16 And Morocco]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:32, 15 April 2026 (UTC) ::::{{re|OhanaUnited}} Both Serbia and Morocco now fixed. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:43, 16 April 2026 (UTC) :::::mexico, belize, panama, costa rica, Brazil, Argentina, Tunisia, Spain, Portugal (and probably a few more I have missed are not working for me). Is there a limit to how many you can add? [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 03:10, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::@[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] @[[User:Andree.sk|Andree.sk]] I debugged this some more and I am seeing a call to https://maps.wikimedia.org/geoshape?getgeojson for every single country in the map. So for 195 countries, the browser tries to open 195 concurrent or sequential connections. ::::::This architecture doesn't scale with our traffic and is currently triggering 429 requests which is likely why many of the countries are not showing for people. This also increases the risk that this feature could interfere with tools and other features on that site that may in future get rate limited. ::::::Can we look to get this fixed sometime next week, given this risk here? I suggest we use a single request with a pipe-separated or comma-separated list of Q-ids if that's possible or at minimum batch the queries with setTimeout and caching using mw.storage for subsequent requests. [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 19:35, 19 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::If it's possible to fix this, that would be appreciated (I'm not entirely sure how to make it such – I'm also a bit preoccupied this week and life irl has been quite hazy, but I'll give it a shot). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:08, 19 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::::I've tried batching [[Module:VisitedMap]] – does that perhaps solve some of the issues? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:14, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::::Yes! That seems to have done the trick! Thank you for the speedy fix! [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 04:20, 20 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::Awesome! Glad to know that works. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:24, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::Do you know the reason why the link to the travel map doesn't appear on Traveller's pub page? It shows up on all other pages (Wikivoyage namespace, mainspace, user page space, etc.) [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 17:02, 11 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::I can see it in the 'usual spot' (under the user icon), but only when you scroll all the way up. When the icons transform into the 'top bar', the submenu doesn't contain the entry. -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 19:30, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::This is on vector 2022 I take it? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:40, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :New bug I've noticed, once again with the Kartographer extension: for some reason, Germany and the Netherlands don't show up for anyone, but it works perfectly fine using {{tl|mapshape}}. I took a cursory look and there was nothing I could really pinpoint that was causing this issue, so maybe a phabricator task is needed? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:57, 31 May 2026 (UTC) ::Interesting, the issue seems to have fixed itself overnight. Kartographer is weird man... //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:27, 1 June 2026 (UTC) == Bug: Creating new listings with tool drops wikidata tag == Replicable bug: if you create a new listing, and add something to the `wikidata` element, it gets dropped when you save. Is there an open bug for this? Or can somebody point me at the source code? [[User:Asamboi|Asamboi]] ([[User talk:Asamboi|talk]]) 03:15, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :probably a question for @[[User:Andyrom75|Andyrom75]] or @[[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] at [[Wikivoyage:Listing_editor]] -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 07:14, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Asamboi|Asamboi]], I'm not sure I got your point. In [[Plovdiv]] I've created a new listing as a test with Wikidata field duly filled. It worked (then I removed it). Could you please check it and let me know what I misunderstood? Thanks, [[User:Andyrom75|<span style="color:#BB0000; font-family:Papyrus; font-size:12px">'''Andyrom75'''</span>]] ([[User talk:Andyrom75|talk]]) 12:55, 13 April 2026 (UTC) == FYI: Guide.world collection of travel guides == https://guide.world/ —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 19:31, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :Odd that it mentions Wikipedia but not Wikivoyage… [[User:HyperAnd|HyperAnd]] ([[User talk:HyperAnd|talk]]) 20:48, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::It links to guides by one author 21 times, and another gets 7 links. I wouldn't regard it as a neutral list, and it may deliberately avoid listing worldwide guides - the major commercial guides also don't get a mention. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:42, 14 April 2026 (UTC) == New Nigeria Expedition? == There seems to be an influx of new Nigeria articles. Is this related to any known event, or another event in violation of the [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers|event organizer]] policy? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:52, 17 April 2026 (UTC) :It looks like 21 new articles were posted. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:40, 17 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Bigcee007|User:Bigcee007]], @[[User:Viva33|User:Viva33]], @[[User:Ngozi scholar Okafor|Ngozi scholar Okafor]], @[[User:Celetex|User:Celetex]], @[[User:Senator Choko|User:Senator Choko]], @[[User:OGA Goody|User:OGA Goody]], @[[User:Adakaibe|User:Adakaibe]] (and please read [[WV:Naming conventions#Disambiguation]], which is not done in the same style on this site as on Wikipedia), @[[User:Akwugo|User:Akwugo]], @[[User:Chikwas|User:Chikwas]], @[[User:IfyClassique|User:IfyClassique]], @[[User:Bigkotech|User:Bigkotech]], @[[User:Nneka Ibeanu|User:Nneka Ibeanu]], @[[User:Ennydavids|User:Ennydavids]]: Can you all tell us what is going on and link the organizing page for us? Who trained you in how to edit on Wikivoyage? Thanks. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:39, 17 April 2026 (UTC) :::...and {{ping|Goodymeraj}} who posted a block appeal on behalf of someone else on my talk page. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:42, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Good morning sir. I posted the appeal. We are currently on a project of visibilizing some Nigerian communities on Wikivoyage. The users you mentioned and tagged above are part of the exercise. Bigcee007 is one of them. That's why I'm appealing on his behalf. Thank you so much [[User:Goodymeraj|Goodymeraj]] ([[User talk:Goodymeraj|talk]]) 05:52, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::@[[User:Goodymeraj|Goodymeraj]], please answer the questions we've asked you. Also, importantly, have you read [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers]]? If not, read it right away! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:54, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::Please which other questions did you ask that I've not answered. And yes, I read the Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers [[User:Goodymeraj|Goodymeraj]] ([[User talk:Goodymeraj|talk]]) 05:58, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::And when did you inform us about this event prior to it happening and solicit our advice and collaboration? Read and answer the questions in this thread. I see no reason to repost them. They are in the first and third posts in this thread. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:53, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::{{re|Goodymeraj}}...so it was you behind this expedition? What do you mean you've read the event organizers policy, but then failed to do ''every'' single step listed on that page? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:33, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::We have to decide what to do about this; by all appearances, it's exactly what the event organizers policy is supposed to prevent, and everyone involved is so far evading all our questions. Should we be asking right now whether all of the edits should be reverted and all the participants should be blocked, or is the more salient question whether the organizer should be banned? Our policy is either in force or it's a dead letter, so it's important for us to figure out the best course of action and take it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 15:31, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::: Can everyone please calm down a bit? I can see why Ikan asks the questions above, but I definitely do not think we should answer yes to either of them. Both the organiser & the participants appear to be acting in good faith, so heavy-handed measures should be avoided if possible. ::::: A lot of our coverage of Africa is quite weak & we definitely want contributions from new users with local knowledge. Yes, the inevitable new user blunders are irritating, but nothing that cannot be dealt with. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 16:11, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::It's the eternal paradox of the new editors: Newbies are 'expensive', but the community will die without them. ::::::As we discussed months ago at [[Wikivoyage talk:Welcome, event organizers#A draft of a substitute for the text on this page]] I'm not convinced that banning organizers is the right choice, especially on a "first offense", when we can't know whether they read the page ''before'' the event. ::::::I do think these articles need improving. Picking one at random, [[Igbo-Ukwu]] is a site of archaeological significance. The population is around 75,000, so it's the kind of place we probably ought to have an article on. It would be nice to have information added to this article (e.g., hotels, restaurants, [https://igboukwu.org/festivals/ several festivals]), but I'm not sad that we have five sentences instead of zero. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:15, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::People acting in good faith would answer our questions. The silence in reply to them is deafening. We need answers ASAP. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:02, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::{{re|Ikan Kekek}} I'd personally ban the organizer for both failing to adhere to the event organizer policy, and also blatantly lying about having read the page. Maybe I'd give a 24–48-hour grace period (from the time of your message), because any longer and that just increases the workload for everyone else trying to clean their mess. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:21, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::And also for playing dumb ("Please which other questions did you ask that I've not answered") and refusing to answer any of the questions at the top of the thread. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:28, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::You're assuming there actually was "an" organizer (possible, but not certain) and that the group didn't get together for fun and decide at the last minute to edit Wikivoyage instead of Wikipedia. If so, I'm sure they won't make that mistake again, after this [[WV:FUN]] reaction. Consider: :::::::* "Have you read [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers]]? If not, read it right away!" :::::::And then when the person did read it, you react like they should have traveled back in time to implement it retroactively: :::::::* "What do you mean you've read the event organizers policy, but then failed to do ''every'' single step listed on that page?" :::::::I think this is the most important question that's been asked so far: :::::::* Can everyone please calm down a bit? :::::::[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:47, 20 April 2026 (UTC) == Sign language phrasebooks == Would it be appropriate to make sign language phrasebooks? Such languages are actually in use, especially in places that have concentrated deaf communities, unlike say, Latin. [[User:HyperAnd|HyperAnd]] ([[User talk:HyperAnd|talk]]) 21:10, 17 April 2026 (UTC) :Absolutely! How would you do it? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:40, 17 April 2026 (UTC) ::Now that's the tricky part. Most of the notation used to write sign languages aren't very readable to an average traveller. We could simply just use video, but video isn't very editable for a wiki, so it should be supplemented with written notation if possible. The most promising notation I see are [[wikt:Appendix:Sign language entry names|Wiktionary's notation]] and [[w:SignWriting]]. Wiktionary's notation doesn't use hard-to-understand symbols, but it's non-visual. SignWriting is very visual, but we need to enable a gadget to render it because most devices can't handle 2D arrangement of text. The gadget is [[mw:Extension:SignWriting MediaWiki Plugin]], but unfortunately it's largely unmaintained. Here's the gadget implemented on [[incubator:Wp/ase|ASL Wikipedia in the incubator]] if you want to see how it looks (though it doesn't render on the mobile skin). [[User:HyperAnd|HyperAnd]] ([[User talk:HyperAnd|talk]]) 00:37, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::My feeling is, if it can be useful to travelers, do it. I think video and pictures are most useful. I couldn't make head or tails of the ASL symbols, but is it important for travelers to know them? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:59, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::My take: for most travelers, probs not – but I can see these phrasebooks being useful in the odd situation and I don't see an issue with sign language phrasebooks if someone is willing to create them and make such phrasebook useful. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:05, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::Well, many deaf and hard of hearing people read and edit websites, and there are various different sign languages, so I think sign language "phrasebooks" would be very useful to that segment of our readership and also people with keen hearing who want to communicate with them. The difficulty, if anything, is that these would be primarily video or picture phrasebooks, but the concept is the same and the need is clear. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 08:18, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::I think sign language phrasebooks would be welcome, but I do see practical difficulties. I understand that there are several English based sign languages: American Sign Language, British Sign Language, New Zealand Sign Language etc which may be difficult for sign users. The phrasebook would need to be illustrated with photos (or drawings) unless we change [[Wikivoyage:Image policy]] to allow short videos in this exceptional case. I don't think wiki editing of a video is an issue if videos are kept short (less than 10 seconds) so editing is done by uploading a replacement, as with photos. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 21:07, 19 April 2026 (UTC) == New user problems == The project certainly needs new users, especially in areas where our coverage is weak. On the other hand, new users often do various problematic things because they naturally are not familiar with local policies & conventions. Overall, I think the old hands here do a reasonable job of correcting problems, welcoming people & pointing out issues, though there are times when some of the regulars need a reminder of [[Wikivoyage:Keep Wikivoyage fun]] and [[Wikivoyage_talk:Welcome,_copyeditors#Discouraging New Wikivoyage Editors|don't bite the newbies]]. I also think most new users do quite well at learning & adapting. Are there ways we could improve this? We point new users to [[Wikivoyage:Tips for new contributors]]; does that need improvements ([[Wikivoyage_talk:Tips_for_new_contributors#Reorganize]])? What about [[Template:Welcome]]? In particular, should the template text be shortened, deleting things that duplicate parts of the Tips page? There are things we could do in software, but should we? Make the signup software display a link to Tips? Have the software that creates user pages automatically add the template? Have a bot that looks for empty "User talk:" pages & drops the template on them? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 11:49, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :Would you like to propose any specific edits? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:27, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :About making [[Special:CreateAccount]] display a link to Tips: How many of our first-time editors are creating a new account here? I believe that many of our contributors already have accounts from Wikipedia or Commons. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:39, 20 April 2026 (UTC) == Summer of Wikivoyage in Albania and Kosovo 2026 == Hi everyone, just a quick note to share that the [[M:Wikimedians of Albanian Language User Group|Wikimedians of Albanian Language User Group]] will be organizing the Summer of Wikivoyage Edit-a-thon 2026 on May 8–9. This year, we are focusing on [[Kukës]], Albania, and other travel destinations in Albania and Kosovo in English language. There will be an offline event, and everyone is also welcome to join online on Saturday from 10:00–17:00 (GMT+2) on [https://meet.jit.si/WoALUG here]. See you there! Thank you! [[User:Vyolltsa|Vyolltsa]] ([[User talk:Vyolltsa|talk]]) 15:21, 21 April 2026 (UTC) :Awesome, and thanks for the notice! I look forward to working with the group. The edit-a-thons on Albania and Kosovo are always done well. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:46, 21 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Vyolltsa|Vyolltsa]], thanks again! ::@[[User:Ruhan.paco|Ruhan.paco]], @[[User:Enarda Muhadri|Enarda Muhadri]] and @[[User:ErgisaHoxha|ErgisaHoxha]], welcome, and thanks for adding information! ::There are three things I want to call your attention to: ::(1) Default address information (starting with the name of the town, if it's the same as the article title) is not included in addresses on this site. ::(2) The "directions" tab in listings is a place for a parenthetical phrase (so no sentences) and includes only things like cross streets and if someplace is directly across the street or down the block from a huge landmark like the main railway station. ::(3) Wikivoyage does not approve of stating in any listing that anyplace is "near" x or y, because that is vague though possibly promotional and usually not worth noting if an address - and even better, [[WV:Geocoding|geocoordinates]] - are provided. ::@[[User:MegiNnnnn|MegiNnnnn]], some of your edits have another, more basic issue addressed by [[User:Ground Zero]] on your user talk page: a lack of information. All listings must include street addresses, geocoding (latitude/longitude) or at least some kind of way for readers to find them, and if at all possible, contact information, too. ::I hope I didn't leave anyone out. Please feel free to share these words of advice among your collaborators! ::All my best, ::[[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 09:57, 9 May 2026 (UTC) :::I'm not going to name names here, but I had to delete a listing for [[WV:DT|touting]] and obviously copying and pasting from a promotional site in violation of [[Wikivoyage:Copyleft]]. Don't do that. And also, please use [[WV:Listings]] templates for all specific listings (not general activities like fishing, though). [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:06, 9 May 2026 (UTC) ::::Welcome to @[[User:Ledion Aga|Ledion Aga]], @[[User:MrsNora|MrsNora]], @[[User:MrsHajrie|MrsHajrie]], @[[User:Marigen Kovaçi|Marigen Kovaçi]], and please look over this subthread. I may have left someone out. Is there a complete list of participants somewhere? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:11, 9 May 2026 (UTC) ::Some of the contributors may not able to understand your comments without our support. Please give us some time to clean up. Here is the full list of [https://outreachdashboard.wmflabs.org/courses/WoALUG/Wikivoyage_Kuk%C3%ABs_2026/home edits from the participants]. Thank you for your understanding! [[User:Arianit|Arianit]] ([[User talk:Arianit|talk]]) 16:14, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :::Sure thing. Thanks for all you do! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 16:46, 11 May 2026 (UTC) == Wiki Loves Bangla 2026 has started, Join Now! == <div style="padding:15px; font-size:120%; line-height:1.6; margin:10px 0; border:2px solid #c90023; background-color:#FFFFFF;color:var(--color-base-fixed,#202122); border-radius:8px;"> [[File:Wiki Loves Bangla wordmark logo-en.svg|right|100px|frameless|link=Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2025]] Hello, We are excited to announce that [[c:Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2026/en|Wiki Loves Bangla 2026]] has started! This year’s theme focuses on '''Bengal festivals''', inviting participants to capture and share images and videos of the diverse cultural celebrations across Bengal. '''[[c:Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla|Wiki Loves Bangla]]''' is an international photography contest on Wikimedia Commons aimed at documenting Bengali culture and heritage worldwide. It is organised annually as part of the [[meta:Bangla Culture and Heritage Collation Program|Bangla Culture and Heritage Collation Program]], with a dedicated theme each year. '''How You Can Participate''', it's easy and simple, and every upload contributes to the world's largest free knowledge repository: [[File:পাতি মাছরাঙ্গা (Alcedo atthis), জাতীয় উদ্ভিদ উদ্যান ঢাকা.jpg|thumb|right|200px|link=Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2025|Winning image from Wiki Loves Bangla 2025. ''Attribution: [[User:Ashraf747|Ashraf747]] / [[CreativeCommons:by-sa/4.0|CC BY-SA 4.0]]'']] * '''Capture''': Take photos or videos of Bengal festivals. * '''Upload''': Share your files to Wikimedia Commons between '''14 April and 15 May 2026'''. * '''Win''': A total of '''USD 1,100''' in prizes. Ready to get started? [https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:UploadWizard&uselang=bn&campaign=Wlbangla Click here to upload your media], or visit the [[Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2026/en|main project page]] for full details. Your contributions help document and preserve Bengal’s rich cultural heritage for the world. For any questions, email us or join our [https://t.me/WikiLovesBangla Telegram group]. Warm regards,<br> '''Wiki Loves Bangla Team'''. <nowiki>#WikiLovesBangla</nowiki> </div> [[User:Moheen|<span style="text-shadow:#8b9dc3 3px 3px 2px;"><span style="font family:'All Things Pink'" color="#3b5998"><b>~ Moheen</b></span></span>]] [[User Talk:Moheen|^{(keep talking)}]] 20:50, 21 April 2026 (UTC) :I hope the event is a smashing success! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:36, 22 April 2026 (UTC) ::Seconded, would be even more amazing if some of those photos submitted can be used in some of our articles here. Either way, all the best, [[User:Moheen|Moheen]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:52, 22 April 2026 (UTC) == Abolishing the see, do, eat and drink sections of region articles == {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Outline regions}} – that's the number of outline region articles there are at present. Out of {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Region articles}}. That puts the number of outline region articles at about 68%, as of writing this message. A majority of articles you'll stumble across will have no content in either the see, do, eat and drink sections, and it's very explainable: writing content in most region articles is a fairly time-consuming exercise whilst simultaneously also being one of the least read sections. In most cases, we want people to focus more on the understand, get in and get around sections for region articles rather than things to see or do, let alone eat/drink (which should really be mostly covered by individual city/park articles). My solution is rather simple: remove the see, do, eat and drink sections as mandatory headings for outline and usable articles (but they should be a requirement for guide and star articles) so the site can have a bit of a more polished look. This site has had over 20 years to prove that these sections have been useful, and they haven't. I'm aware this is a bit different to all our other categories of articles, but regions are a bit of a unique case in that a) we don't list individual listings on region pages and b) the see, do, eat and drink sections provide so little value in a majority of cases. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:10, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :I thought eat, drink and sleep were already optional for region articles. See and do shouldn't be optional. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:33, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::Sleep is, but not eat/drink per [[Wikivoyage:Region article template]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:38, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :::Let's make eat and drink optional, but I disagree with making see and do optional. There needs to be a summary of things or at least types of things to see and do in a region for it to be really usable. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:11, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::::That's fair I suppose –&nbsp;I don't feel too strongly about see/do so I'm fine with just eat/drink if that's what we all want. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:12, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :::::We might want to have a discussion on the [[Wikivoyage talk:Region article template]] page to make it official, don't you think? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:23, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::All that this can achieve is to make the metrics look a bit better, by lowering the quality threshold for a regional page to be considered "usable" – a bar that is already set low. Scrappy uninformative pages will remain scrappy and uninformative, not worth reading. :::::: ::::::“Overhang” is the term I use for regional pages that remain outline even though their constituent pages are of good standard. My guess is that these are few, do we have any numbers about that? If (as seems likely) the outline regions mostly have outline cities, parks etc then it’s sensible to put the effort into the latter. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 17:50, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::Probably should've started the discussion there, but I think for such a major high-profile change I'd prefer the pub as the venue of discussion over [[Wikivoyage talk:Region article template]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:29, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :I wonder how often we have a regional article without usable articles below it. I have occasionally added attractions to a regional article because there was no 'city' article to stick it in. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 20:52, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::Personally I think that's fine tbh – though I suppose in those cases that's where the question of whether a rural area article is more favorable arises. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:38, 23 April 2026 (UTC) Agree with whoever said make it optional. I agree that most of the time they would be unnecessary but there are enough corner cases. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 21:06, 23 April 2026 (UTC) I agree that region articles should have See and Do, and we should work towards filling those in, rather than removing them. Eat and Drink are useful, and exist in some region articles, but it does seem unlikely that we will be able to expand those any time soon. They should be optional, and removed if empty. I don't think Sleep should be in region articles at all. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:19, 23 April 2026 (UTC) : Although [[Hebrides|here]] is an example of a useful Sleep section in a region article. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:33, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::Regions should have See and Do, and can usefully have Buy, Eat, Drink or Sleep. Unfortunately you usually need to know a region well to provide complete content in any of these sections. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:03, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :::Nicely put, AlasdairW. A really good Region SHOULD have Buy, Eat, Drink and Sleep sections that provide a high-level overview (similar to the Hberides article that Ground Zero cited. I agree that listings generally don't belong in Region articles (unless there isn't an appropriate city article for it). I'm okay with having all those sections be optional for regions, but feel strongly that they should be REQUIRED for a region article to become Guide or Star. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 17:52, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::::This has prompted me to expedite the outline regions on my "to do" list, and for starters [[Hebrides]] (cited above, and already usable) was missing Eat and Drink. Quickly sorted. Three more can be done soon, improving the metrics by just under 0.1%. If we all put our shoulder to the wheel this problem will be swiftly fettled. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 10:28, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :::::'''Actual requirements''': The cited [[Wikivoyage:region article template|region article template]] (at least since before [[Special:Permalink/4786171|10 Dec]]) says about these four sections (the last sentence of each): "If there isn't anything to say about the region's [whatever] that isn't already covered by the descriptions in the Regions/Cities/Other destinations sections, or in the Understand section, then this section can be omitted." :::::For usable, "the most prominent attractions [must be] identified with directions"; for guide, there must be "information on multiple attractions and things to do". The [[[[Special:Permalink/994173|region article status]] page doesn't require the sections under discussion to exist, for any status. :::::I indeed think one needs to say something about the most prominent attractions of a region before the page can be seen as usable. Also having Eat, Drink, See and Do sections in the template is reasonable, as that should make the editor think about what usable could be said about cuisine, nightlife and attractions. For some regions, what needs to be said is already in the city listings or in Understand, making the separate sections redundant. That's fine. :::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 14:11, 25 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::So to clean up region articles for regions you know: think whether there is something region-specific to say about the four subjects, check whether it is already said in other sections and either put content in the empty sections or remove them. If you are not sure about some section for some region, just leave those section headers for somebody else to make the decision. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 14:16, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :So 3 weeks later...I take it that there's general support for making eat/drink optional, but keeping see and do. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:45, 18 May 2026 (UTC) ::Maybe we should allow usable region articles to refer the reader to a larger region (or the country/state) article for information on eat, drink and sleep. That leaves the section in place, so any region specifics are more easily added. So if [[Hebrides]] didn't have anything to say for sleep, it would say "See [[Scotland#Sleep]]". [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 12:00, 18 May 2026 (UTC) :::Have you checked the guideline I linked? Is there something in it you would like to change? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:24, 18 May 2026 (UTC) ::::In the Eat and Drink sections of [[Wikivoyage:Region article template]], replace "then this section can be omitted" with "provide a link to a this section in a a bigger region (which could be the country)". [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 19:31, 18 May 2026 (UTC) :::::Do we need sections that only have that link? Can't it just be included in context in Understand or even be regarded as implicit – the country's cuisine is usually described in the country article and in the absence of an eat section I assume readers would consult the country article without any pointer? In the case where nightlife is concentrated to one of the region's cities (not too uncommon), that can be said in the city's bullet as well as in Understand. :::::Of course, ''if'' we want that section, we can include such a sentence in Drink. But I think one-sentence sections are ugly, they look incomplete, and may attract tries at saying something, often resulting in pointless or redundant text, and perhaps listings that belong elsewhere. :::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:09, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::In cases like [[Greater Lyon]] and [[Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes]], the later of which has an extensive Eat section, it may of course be worthwhile to point out at which level of regions that description is to be found. If the region is indeed "capital of French gastronomy", then the section should probably not be omitted – there ought to be something to say. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:16, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::My thoughts are mostly with LPfi's – it should generally be implied with our region structure, not that I think many people often read the eat/drink ections in the first place. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:04, 19 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::I'm surprised you don't think they do. I would tend to think they would, as food is one of the most interesting things to many travellers and people generally. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:27, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::It ''should'' be the case, but generally I (and a few people I've talked to irl about) find most eat/drink sections to be far too lacking to actually bother reading when many better sources exist online. Even when it comes to listings, it's not all that often I actually consult Wikivoyage for places to eat or drink, and nowhere near the same level as I do for see/do. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:49, 19 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::::I'd distinguish between listings for specific eateries and descriptions of a local cuisine. I'm always interested in reading the latter, especially if it's well written and a good read. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:59, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::Hmm true, you have a point there. I do suppose that eat/drink sections of country articles (and also major region articles, like [[Quebec]]) tend to be a ''lot'' more useful than say the eat/drink sections of say [[South Central Iowa]] (which, in my opinion, can be safely removed). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:26, 20 May 2026 (UTC) :::I'd rather see something like "As with most of Scotland, self-catering cottages, camping, and bed-and-breakfast inns are available in the Hebrides" (customizing the text to whatever is most relevant). There could be a link on the opening phrase to [[Scotland#Sleep]]. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:26, 18 May 2026 (UTC) == Digital life in China == Hello from China. I wrote [https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/User:Brycehughes/Staying_connected_in_China this]. It is meant to be what I wish I had read before I went to China. I learned the hard way; I hope others don't have to (especially now that China is opening up re visa-free access). I am seeking some advice: 1) Is this appropriate for a standalone article? 2) If yes, then what template to use and also how to title it? 3) If no, then should I integrate it into China or just junk it? Basically I'd like your help in what to do with this. Any advice appreciated, thanks. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 15:25, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :I think your write-up is valuable and practical, and I think the topic is too big to fit in [[China#Connect]]. I like your current title or [[Internet access in China]], to match the [[Internet access|general article]]. [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 15:55, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::I agree with your assessment. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:09, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :::Me too. [[User:GrinningIodize|GrinningIodize]] ([[User talk:GrinningIodize|talk]]) 18:51, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :Yes, this article is valuable, especially as it has radically changed my attitude towards China as a whole. I was blocked at English Wikipedia back in 2021 for my blind hate towards China and Chinese, for which I have apologized repeatedly. And now, your article has sparked my curiosity towards that very country, its culture and people. It should be titled [[Internet access in China]], as suggested by Gerode above. Thank you for writing this and also changing my mind for good. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 16:47, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::Hey, glad I could change your mind. Not sure how this article did it but whatever works. I've traveled to a few countries at this point and one thing I always notice is everybody basically wants to just get the kids to school on time, etc. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) :::Sing it, brother. Getting the kids a good education, and taking care of the aging parents is universal. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 17:20, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::::In the west, taking care of aging parents is less? In India they die in your house. Dunno. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:35, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :::::I remember having tea with a guy in Isfahan. After we talked politics for a while, we ended up talking eldercare. He wanted to move to Tehran for career reasons. He was younger than me, but I have been through it in Toronto. The issues were similar. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:26, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::I'd say still way more socially accepted in the west to send your aging parents to a nursing home than it is outside the west. As someone who's culturally from a non-western background, sadly not uncommon to witness drama with extended family when it comes to these sorts of matters. :( //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:49, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :Sounds like I can keep the title, link at the [[China]] article. Technical stuff e.g. what templates to add can be done by more savvy people later. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:37, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::Also it is a silly banner image but these things make me laugh. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:38, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::Done and done. Please feel free to add proper templates to [[Staying connected in China|the article]] anyone so it's well fitted in the tree. Thanks, [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:44, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::[[Staying connected in China|Staying connected in China]]. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:58, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :Ooh this is a good topic – I've read about advice on this here and there on Reddit, but never a full comprehensive guide. Nice work on this! //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:44, 24 April 2026 (UTC) I wonder if we should cover bringing burner phones/devices in this page. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 06:24, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :Certainly could, although my target for the article was more the I-want-to-watch-YouTube crowd as opposed to the I-want-privacy crowd. Could have a section on privacy I suppose. (Somewhat ironically, I have a burner phone, but I bought it for entering the USA.) [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 07:48, 25 April 2026 (UTC) ::I think [[burner phones]] could be an entirely separate travel topic, since China isn't the only place where such advice would be applicable. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:08, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :::Many people need burner laptops, but perhaps that's different enough to be handled in [[Computers]]. I assume that what needs to be said (and can be kept up to date) can be said on a screenful or two, so wouldn't make that article too long. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 14:26, 25 April 2026 (UTC) It looks a useful article. If you know, it would be worth adding a note saying how much this applies to Hong Kong or Macau. The Great Firewall may be less active there, but it has been 7 years since I was last in Hong Kong. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 09:52, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :Same boat as you... I haven't been to Hong Kong since 2017. If anyone knows feel free to add. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 10:57, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :Well, the Great Firewall applies mainly to mainland China, and HK and Macau don't face such restrictions AFAIK. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 13:36, 25 April 2026 (UTC) ::Yes, I can back that up. I have friends in Shenzhen who often head over to Hong Kong because it's more convenient for accessing the open internet. [[User:ShuaiXuesheng|ShuaiXuesheng]] ([[User talk:ShuaiXuesheng|talk]]) 14:44, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :::The Great Firewall does not apply to Hong Kong. You can still freely use Wikipedia, Facebook, Whatsapp, Telegram and YouTube. Can't comment on Macau but I would imagine it's the same thing. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 16:25, 1 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I think the only risk with Hong Kong is that during political crises the CCP can lean on the HK government to restrict access. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 08:04, 2 May 2026 (UTC) == Request for comment (global AI policy) == <bdi lang="en" dir="ltr" class="mw-content-ltr">A [[:m:Requests for comment/Artificial intelligence policy|request for comment]] is currently being held to decide on a global AI policy. {{int:Feedback-thanks-title}}<br>[[User:MediaWiki message delivery|MediaWiki message delivery]] ([[User talk:MediaWiki message delivery|talk]]) 00:58, 26 April 2026 (UTC)</bdi> <!-- Message sent by User:Codename Noreste@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=30424282 --> :Finally! //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:20, 26 April 2026 (UTC) ::I don't think this proposal is the best the movement can do. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 03:52, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :::I agree and stated as much in comments at the link. Why don't we adopt a local policy that _any_ use of AI, very much including for "basic copy editing" and machine translation, must be disclosed? I'd be willing to tolerate spellcheck and grammar check if those are considered AI, but nothing else should be accepted without disclosure (or at all, if I had my druthers). We don't want people's writing style to be chucked in favor of bots. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 08:50, 26 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Hence why I supported the opt-out policy. It might not be bad on this wiki where there is an active community to clean up after AI use, but I'm in the midst of a weeks-long effort of cleaning up after someone who mass-spammed AI translations of Interlingua (see [[m:Steward_requests/Miscellaneous/2026-03#h-Mass_machine_translations/AI-generated_pages-Manual_requests-20260317184400|this]]), which I've been slacking on a bit, but the whole mass translations are absolutely disruptive and something I'd never want to see again. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:25, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :Great! We now have a policy about AI, globally. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 08:12, 26 April 2026 (UTC) ::No, we don't. And even if they pass, we need to write our own. What bothers me about "disclosure" is that it adds deadweight to affected edits, especially when the edit itself is minor. Can a label be used for the purpose? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 11:51, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] Sure, a label can be used for the purpose. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 23:29, 27 April 2026 (UTC) :I oppose AI's use on the travel guide. [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 15:32, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :: Would you allow photos, where some obstruction has been removed by an AI tool? What about finding sources when researching some off destination? May I use AI to construct a table or diagram? May my dyslectic friend have an AI point out possible spelling errors? May one use a voice-to-text AI if typing is difficult because of that accident? :: As AI is getting common, restrictions on its use will interfere with established workflows of some, soon many, contributors. Thus we need to identify the things we absolutely don't want done with AI or assisted by AI, and those where AI assistance isn't a problem. :: –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 12:58, 27 April 2026 (UTC) :::I oppose all of AI's use as far as LLMs are concerned, but for researching off wiki you can't control that, and it is helpful. AI shouldn't be used to construct a table or diagram. A dyslexic person may use it to use this voice to text typing, :::I think they should make the wording more specific and inclusive for this new regulation. :::Thanks, [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 18:18, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :::I would be fine on all of them, as long as these are legitimate uses. But for GenAI, it should not replace jobs from real workers. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 06:16, 30 April 2026 (UTC) == Changes to autoconfirmed requirements from next week == For those not following the tech news, [[:phab:T418484]] will be a pretty important update for how autoconfirmed is configured on all wikis. Namely, to quote the tech news: {{blockquote|There is a new change in how new users are autoconfirmed that will improve anti-vandalism protection. Currently, users who have had an account for a few days and made a few edits are automatically added to the Autoconfirmed users group. This configuration tends to be exploited by some vandals, who create accounts and start to use them only after some time. To mitigate this, the configuration will be updated next week so that – for the purpose of becoming autoconfirmed – the account age will be counted from their first edit, instead of registration date. The numeric value of the age threshold will remain the same. This change will be deployed only to wikis which require at least one edit as part of the autoconfirmation conditions.}} I've made the change to [[Wikivoyage:Autoconfirmed users]] accordingly, but I do think this is a change that should be more widely announced to the community. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:12, 27 April 2026 (UTC) :Seems like a good change. Thanks for amending the page, but I think the people for whom the knowledge is essential are quite few over here, and I assume most of them check the pub (or the technical news), so I wouldn't be worried about somebody missing it. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:49, 28 April 2026 (UTC) ::I trust that this works. A few years ago I had trouble with a vandal who had been blocked. His modus perandi was to create a new account, make a dozen or so reasonable edits (not difficult to do - a typo here, a grammatical correction there) and then he started harrassing me. [[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 16:09, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :::I think this will have little effect on long-term abusers. If the current pattern is "create account, wait 4 days, make a dozen reasonable, non-block-worthy edits, and then start harassing", then the only think that changes is the order of the elements: "create account, make a dozen reasonable, non-block-worthy edits, wait 4 days, and then start harassing". [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 02:40, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::::It still does prevent getting autoconfirmed while doing a series of block-worthy edits, with no preceding good or neutral ones. I assume some abusers don't move over to the new strategy. (And this also has no effect one those doing just one edit per account – if it helps against some abusers, then it is good.) The downside is that somebody who registered an account for reading and now does a few edits doesn't immediately become autoconfirmed. I don't think they expect that, so it is no big deal. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:29, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::::At present there are very few LTAs that follow this pattern – and I'd say because most LTAs are not bright enough to have the capability of making good edits in the first place. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:38, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :Good change as well, I support this change. Vandalism is rife. [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 18:21, 28 April 2026 (UTC) == Scriptbooks == We have various foreign-language phrasebooks covered at [[phrasebooks]]. However, there's only one article that isn't about language but about a writing system, and that is [[Learning Devanagari]], a "scriptbook". The very existence of such a "scriptbook" means there could be scriptbooks on Cyrillic or Perso-Arabic. However, the [[Cyrillic]] articles are deleted and salted for being "out of scope". So, should scriptbooks exist on Wikivoyage at all, or be migrated elsewhere (like Wikibooks or Wikiversity)? '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:13, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :As far as I know, travellers are more likely to talk to locals than reading scripts, especially as written languages can be translated with the translation services on your phone. Probably that's why we have so many phrasebooks and only one "scriptbook". Of course, there are obscure writing systems that translation services can't parse, and phrasebooks of respective languages are enough to cover such cases (since only one or few languages would use such obscure scripts). '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:17, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :: There are downsides to pointing your smartphone at every sign you want to read. For Cyrillic, learning the letters isn't too hard, so anybody travelling to Russia (or Ukraine) should try. On the other hand, the alphabets could easily be explained in the phrasebooks, with remarks on pronunciation in context, so I don't think a scriptbook is warranted – but neither do I think it should be salted. :: Devanagari is more complex, and the ligature are not very intuitive for most English speakers. I think that included the content of that article into half a dozen individual phrasebooks wouldn't be a good alternative. How to handle the writing system is a judgement call and I wouldn't rule out other scriptbooks, although I cannot remind me any writing system for which I would recommend that solution. :: –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:43, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :I agree that while phrasebooks are useful for travelers, scriptbooks might be valuable, particularly for complex writing systems. They could be a good resource, especially for those not easily translated by phone apps. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 15:20, 30 April 2026 (UTC) == Error on my own page == Got this message on an edit I tried to make on MY OWN userpage: ''Unfortunately, this action has been automatically identified as harmful, and therefore disallowed.'' ''If you believe your action was constructive, please leave a message on the [[Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub|travellers' pub]]. In your message, state what you were trying to do and the title of the page you were trying to edit.'' ''A brief description of the abuse rule which your action matched is: <u>Unregistered or New user blanking someone else's user or user talk page</u>'' Here is my abuse log for confirmation<br>[https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:AbuseLog&wpSearchUser=ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor+%28alt%29 https://fr.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:AbuseLog&wpSearchUser=ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor+%28alt%29] What? It's my page! Wdym? [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 12:57, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :{{ping|SHB2000}} created an anti-spam filter (#66) that seems to be catching you. Maybe they can help. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:06, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::Okay. Thanks. [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 13:07, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::66 is flag-only (mainly so it can get picked up by [[m:SWViewer|SWViewer]]), seems to be 35 that's catching your edits – the main issue here seems to be that your account isn't autoconfirmed. I've given you confirmed perms since your other account is already autoconfirmed which should hopefully stop the filter from disallowing your edits. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:14, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :::Thank you! [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 13:18, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::::It was filter 35 that was the culprit. It seems the error was my fault: I used a construction that didn't work as expected. I am sorry. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 16:48, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :::::It is all good! [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 02:13, 30 April 2026 (UTC) == FTT icon no longer displaying == Does anyone else see this same issue of no FTT icon appearing? Take a look at the pagebanner on [[common scams]] or [[Hamad International Airport]] for what I mean. The links work, but the icon doesn't. (cc {{ping|Andyrom75|Jdlrobson}}) //02:00, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :I do not see an icon. —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 02:48, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :There is no icon for me. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 15:19, 30 April 2026 (UTC) ::The link to the image seems to have been broken somehow. The file still exists ([[c:File:Writing Circle.svg]]) (I also uploaded a [[c:File:Writing Circle white.svg|white version]] for use in {{tl|Banner}} which for consistency might be better?). The fix here should be to update the link in [[MediaWiki:Common.css]] on line 128. I don't have those permissions (interface admin) any more. Instead, @[[User:Andree.sk|Andree]], [[User:Andyrom75|Andy]], [[User:Atsirlin|Atsirlin]] and [[User:Jdlrobson|JDL]] should be able to make the necessary edit. <span style="font-family:atkinson hyperlegible">― '''[[User:Wauteurz|Wauteurz]]''' <small>([[User talk:Wauteurz|talk]])</small></span> 19:39, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :::hopefully fixed, we'll see when MW/ResourceLoader reloads the caches.. -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 20:14, 30 April 2026 (UTC) ::::I see the FTT icon in the upper right of the banner for [[Common scams]], so apparently that fixed it. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 21:17, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :::Yep that did the fix – cheers, Wauteurz and Andree. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:34, 1 May 2026 (UTC) == My Culture is not a Costume video == If you are reading this, I suggest you to watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6Y5cARFJw8 Summary: Cultural appropriation should never be a thing across America, including all of these holidays, and in daily life. The Halloween costumes that co-opt their cultures, are described as insensitive, dehumanizing, and unrepresentative of the culture, asked by six women. These women had a distaste of what their culture is used as Halloween costumes, and the reasons they presented, as erasing their culture, stereotypical, and a ignorance of the rich history of ethnic minorities. The most important of all, is that traditional attire, is considered to be sacred in different cultures, outside Western countries and nations. Reminder: Please see the [[Halloween]] article, and the [[respect]] too. This quotation would be: {{q|Another consideration is that some costumes may grossly misrepresent diverse cultures or cause offence and upset to others. There has also been considerable debate about cultural appropriation. Purported 'Arab', 'Mexican', 'Indian', 'Geisha', or 'Asylum Patient' costume choices have all come under scrutiny. Costumes that mimic police or military style clothing (including those of historical regimes), may also cause offence or be mistaken for genuine.|Buy: Costumes}} Thank you for reading this. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-26450-12|&#126;2026-26450-12]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-26450-12|talk]]) 19:06, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :This is a travel guide. We are not going to tell people what costumes to wear on this site. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:31, 30 April 2026 (UTC) ::I think there's a bit of "know your audience" here. Around the time this old YouTube video was created, the Twitterverse blew up over a white American teen wearing a Chinese dress to a formal party. However, Chinese people in China thought it was acceptable.[https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/02/world/asia/chinese-prom-dress.html][https://www.scmp.com/comment/insight-opinion/article/2144595/go-ahead-appropriate-my-culture] [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 23:58, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :::I wear batik shirts all summer, and if anyone wanted to object to it (no-one has), I'd insist that they have a conversation with me in Malay. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 00:29, 1 May 2026 (UTC) :This has to be a troll post. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 09:34, 2 May 2026 (UTC) ::If you're doing it respectfully and acknowledge its origins, I don't see what's wrong with someone else's ethnic costume. When Katy Perry wore a kimono in one of her music videos, some Japanese-Americans were outraged, but people actually from Japan were perplexed as to why it was even controversial at all. And I've worn a traditional Indian shirt to a Deepavali party, and nobody found it offensive. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 07:26, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :::Key to wearing costumes of other cultures is doing it respectfully, although the risk of committing faux pas is still there. Wearing them for Halloween is probably more controversial than wearing them in proper context, such as the Deepavali. Having Finns dressed as Sámi (unknowingly combining details in conflicting ways) performing "genuine" Sámi rituals for tourists is indeed seen as cultural appropriation. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:55, 11 May 2026 (UTC) == Spirit Airlines gone bust == It seems [https://www.nbcnews.com/business/travel/spirit-airlines-shutdown-what-to-know-rcna343222 Spirit has gone bust] last night. Currently about [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?limit=500&fulltext=1&search=Spirit+Airlines&title=Special:Search&profile=default&ns0=1 320ish mentions] of the airline, so will be a massive undertaking to fix this, but any help would be appreciated. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:59, 3 May 2026 (UTC) :Some articles of [[India]] still mention Jet Airlines and GoAir, both of which have gone bust long ago. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:47, 3 May 2026 (UTC) ::Would be a worthwhile project to remove mentions of those too. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:28, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :I suppose we'll have to search for all mentions of Spirit Airlines in other articles. Or maybe hold off to see who buys their assets. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 16:01, 3 May 2026 (UTC) ::They've already had two rounds of bankruptcy. I don't think that a revival is at all likely. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 00:31, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] Was more thinking a merger than a revival, that another airline would buy some of the planes and take over at least a portion of their routes. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 16:45, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I expect all the remaining assets (everything from whole airplanes to office chairs to lease contracts on airport gates) to get sold off as part of the bankruptcy proceedings. I don't expect other airlines to really "take over their routes", but instead for some of them to increase the number of flights on routes that they were already serving, and a few to add a few new routes. Adding a new route can't be done overnight, so any airline that announces a new destination in the coming weeks has already been planning this for a while. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:47, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :Do you guys [https://letsbuyspiritair.com/ want to buy it]? —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 00:48, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::Shouldn't have vibecoded those servers... [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 12:58, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::Reminds me of [[:w:Global Airlines|Global Airlines]]. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 13:17, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::It looks like they're up to US $88 million in "unverified" pledges. That's 17% of the bailout that Spirit had been seeking a week ago, and that various news sources said might keep the airline operational for as little as six months. So... enough to keep the airline going this month, assuming that all the pledges are real (and they never are, though in some fundraising areas, you might get as high as 90%)? ::And then it dies again, of course. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:21, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::To keep it running, they need a sound business model and good management. They claim that the bankruptsy was due to the evilness of Wall Street (or so I interpret their message). They could be right, but it seems that running an airline company isn't easy these days, be it a legacy or budget one. If the business model really did work, then it is up to having the money and good management, and to not get vulnerable to Wall Street evilness (better not take loans from them). It would be really nice to hear them succeed, but I won't bet my mite on that. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:14, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I've read that they haven't been profitable since the pandemic in 2020. That suggests that they don't have a sound business model. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:49, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::::I mean LCCs around the world outside of Europe have been struggling since the pandemic, but Spirit was on a whole different level. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:25, 5 May 2026 (UTC) : What can we do by way of practical advice for travellers? There have been a fair number of stories about stranded passengers, stuck paying for a different flight, often at a higher price because one-way is usually more expensive than half of a return ticket & immediate flights more expensive than booking ahead. [https://people.com/spirit-airlines-passengers-recall-being-stranded-at-airports-after-airline-s-closure-11965179 Spirit passengers stranded], [https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/23/travel/thomas-cook-airline-collapse.html Thomas Cook] a few years ago involving 600,000 victims by some estimates, [https://www.islands.com/1996300/airlines-bankrupt-never-recovered/ 10 Airlines That Went Bankrupt And Never Recovered], ... : There are sites with advice about this, [https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/service-cessations-bankruptcy US DOT], [https://www.pbs.org/newshour/economy/after-spirit-airlines-shutdown-how-passengers-can-get-home-and-get-refunds PBS], [https://www.iata.org/contentassets/2e46aace261040b9a47fb7b9da18efc9/airline-bankruptcy-position-paper.pdf IATA] & several travel guides. It seem to boil down to seeking a refund from your credit card company & looking for "rescue fares" where other airlines offer a discount. : Are there good ways to reduce this risk? Always pay with a credit card? Does [[travel insurance]] cover this? Should you fly only on major airlines? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 17:00, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::I think Finland (the EU?) offers some protection if you book in the right way, after many passengers got stranded some years ago (COVID-19? 2008?). I think companies in the travel business are required to put money in a fund that covers their liabilities, so at least passengers should get their money back (I could be awfully wrong about the details). If you book through a travel bureau, then they take the responsibility (they probably have insurance). Then, of course, you shouldn't book via a "convenience flag" company. I believe that suitable travel insurance also covers this, but read the fine print. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:27, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com/travel/planning/what-to-do-if-tour-company-airline-goes-bankrupt.htm indicates that travel insurance with what seems to be called "insolvency cover" (not very common) can help. US credit card issuers must refund the price of cancelled flights, but that doesn't seem to be true elsewhere. :::I don't think that "only fly on major airlines" is reasonable. Airline bankruptcies are pretty uncommon in wealthier worlds. However, "don't fly on one that's already in bankruptcy proceedings" might be a reasonable rule. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:56, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::::In the UK, and I think most of Europe, you have better consumer protection if you book a "package" of flight and hotel for a single price from a travel agent (which can be a part of the airline). If the airline goes bust when you are away, the travel agent has to arrange to get you home (without further charge), and the scheme is backed with a bond held by the CAA. See [[:W:Air Travel Organisers' Licensing]]. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 20:45, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::::Yes. EU regulations require that businesses that sell packages place a deposit that should cover expenses for bankrupt partners (they estimate the costs themselves, so a bankrupt business may not be able to cover everything). In addition to returning money paid to them for unavailable services, they have to arrange and pay your journey back, if the return was part of the package. This applies only if you bought a package. If you reserve flight and accommodation through them separately, or book things yourself with their assistance (so that you get agreements with the individual businesses), then their liabilities are very limited – but they should clearly inform you that this isn't a package deal. :::::If you bought tickets yourself, you have to either ask the company itself (which may have priority liabilities worth more than its assets) or your credit company, which only need to pay back what you paid, no additional expenses. You choose which of them to ask for compensation. :::::(I did not read the directive, but a bunch of official advice.) :::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:03, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :btw a bit late, but kudos to [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] and [[User:Anyone150|Anyone150]] for doing the bulk of the removals. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:03, 9 May 2026 (UTC) == Is there an unannounced Montenegro editing event? == In the last couple of days, we've seen a number of new articles about attractions in Montenegro, few if any of them destinations by Wikivoyage definitions laid out on the [[WV:What is an article]] page, and all of them in a custom, non-Wikivoyage structure with personal comments. Are these all by one person who's using multiple accounts, or is this some kind of unannounced event? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:56, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :Please respond, @[[User:Andjela555|Andjela555]], @[[User:Zinuo67|Zinuo67]], @[[User:~2026-25860-58|~2026-25860-58]], @[[User:~2026-27229-97|~2026-27229-97]], @[[User:~2026-27107-15|~2026-27107-15]], @[[User:Stasya Kostova|Stasya Kostova]], @[[User:~2026-26916-20|~2026-26916-20]]. You are well-intentioned, and most of the titles you are adding articles for deserve to be listed on this site, in the article for the nearest town, but because you do not know about [[Wikivoyage:What is an article]] and have no idea what Wikivoyage style (for example, [[Wikivoyage:Article templates]], [[Wikivoyage:Pronouns]] and [[Wikivoyage:Goals]]) is, you are creating a mess, and if there is a planning or discussion page somewhere, one of us can post some basic Wikivoyage style and policy information to it to try to stop the mess from spreading. Please tell us who organized this editing event and who instructed you about what to add to Wikivoyage and how. It's important for us to know. Thanks! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 14:21, 5 May 2026 (UTC) ::{{re|Ikan Kekek}} Interestingly, from a CU check, it seems: ::* {{checkuser|Zinuo67}} ::* {{checkuser|Veda-Meda2015}} ::* {{checkuser|Ece Mira 67777}} ::* {{checkuser|Stasya Kostova}} ::* {{checkuser|Miona Colanovic}} ::are all a 100% match (no account blocks have been made, however). At least technically, there is no indication of this coming from a shared address either. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:23, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::Weird. Thanks for checking. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:51, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::: {{u|Stasya Kostova}} created [[Skočidjevojka Bay]] which needs to be cleaned up (couldn't find the correct template to tag for cleanup). [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 04:18, 8 May 2026 (UTC) :::::There is no such template because we don't have enough editors to say "you do it!" But if I lack time or need help, I usually post a notice on an article's talk page, where to be fair it's often ignored, and I may forget about it for some time, too. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:46, 8 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::In the case of [[Skočidjevojka Bay]], it should probably just be tagged with {{tl|stub}}. The template automatically populates it into a category if it's still like that after 7 days. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:08, 8 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::I have tagged it to merge into [[Petrovac]], as I don't think there is enough there for an article. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 10:24, 8 May 2026 (UTC) ==Policy for the phrase "adult entertainment"== An earlier version of the [[Southern California]] article used the phrase "adult entertainment" (see [[Talk:Southern California]] for discussion). As "adult entertainment" is a euphemism for pornography (but not always understood as such by non-native readers), we should have a policy which complies with [[Wikivoyage:Sex tourism policy]] and [[Wikivoyage:The traveller comes first]]. I made a draft in [[Wikivoyage:Words to avoid]]. Please contribute with your opinions. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 10:48, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :I don't think policy/guideline pages are places for drafts. If you had meant your new text to be a draft, you should have put it in the talk page for the policy/guideline page. It seemed non-controversial to me, and as I mentioned elsewhere, I support it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:53, 6 May 2026 (UTC) ::I agree with Ikan here. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:01, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::I also agree with Ikan on this one. [[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 21:27, 6 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I am happy with the addition. To me "Adult movies" could be those which have been given an "18 certificate", and violence could be the main reason for the rating. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:12, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::::I'm all for avoiding any promotion of sex tourism, but I'm not sure a knee-jerk reaction to automatically make a phrase verboten is at all useful. I often travel with my family and I would like to know where the shady hotels are so I can avoid them. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 01:21, 7 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::Just for transparency, this is what Yvwv added: ::::::{{blockquote|adult entertainment: Can be understood as a euphemism for pornography, striptease, sex toy stores, and other sexually themed attractions. If such attractions comply with the [[Wikivoyage:Sex tourism policy]] they can be described without euphemism; a strip club can be called a strip club. Use expressions with "adults" in an unambigous way.}} :::::://<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:34, 7 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::'''Oppose''' the addition of "adult entertainment" to the words to avoid list. IMHO, we need to cut that list down to just those that are genuinely useful to avoid. Well over half have perfectly legitimate uses on a travel wiki. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 01:46, 7 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::: To sort out misunderstanding, see [[Wikivoyage talk:Words to avoid]] for discussion. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 08:14, 7 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::I think that the confusing situations should be mentioned. Here's one short way to do that: :::::::* Use expressions with "adults" in an unambiguous way (e.g., "Adults only (age 18+)"). :::::::[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:13, 7 May 2026 (UTC) == Main Page revamps, part 2 == As mentioned about a month and a bit ago, I'm in the midst of trying to modernise the look of this site. The second stage of those revamps is now at [[User:SHB2000/revamped main]], which revamps the sister projects section. The style replicates the redesign agreed upon with part 1 of the revamps when we got rid of the blue box. Any thoughts and feedback welcome. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:58, 10 May 2026 (UTC) :It looks virtually identical to me, so I think it's certainly fine. The sister projects footer is the only real difference and is a little more clean and clear, so I {{support}}. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 17:40, 10 May 2026 (UTC) : {{support}} Looks fine to me. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 14:13, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :'''Wikifunctions''' is listed twice with somewhat different descriptions. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:16, 11 May 2026 (UTC) ::Done, good catch. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:34, 11 May 2026 (UTC) : I notice that the links to other language versions are down at the end. I wonder if the people who need them most will find them there. Should they be more prominent? Perhaps in the top box? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 03:38, 12 May 2026 (UTC) ::Rather confusingly, we also don't display the language versions on mobile at all – is there any design-related reason behind this? (if not, then that will be part 3 of revamps) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:45, 12 May 2026 (UTC) :::On mobile Minerva I am seeing various issues. The image in the discover section should push the text below and there is lots of blank whitespace. The map at the top is floating away from every thing else. :::Since most of our readership is on mobile I think it is important to address these. Please be sure to test it on a real phone and ensure you are viewing the default Minerva skin. [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 02:32, 13 May 2026 (UTC) ::::That seems to be an issue with the existing Main Page too. My reforms only change the Sister Projects section, which seems to work perfectly fine for me. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:47, 13 May 2026 (UTC) LGTM, thanks for doing this. Possibly a nitpick, but could the bottom row of the sister projects box be made symmetrical? --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 05:46, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :TT, this is not strictly possible without doing a lot to change the layout, since what will be symmetrical depends on your browser, monitor size, etc. On my computer, there are two rows of seven icons, which is balanced down the middle and looks quite clean. If I resize my browser window, it flows to four rows of four and one row of two, which is not symmetrical. I think the more meaningful discussion is about which projects to include. I personally would like to see [[:outreach:]] added, but I don't think it's critical. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 07:33, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::The main reason it wasn't included is because I'd literally forgotten :P. btw if you do see any missing projects, please do add them to [[User:SHB2000/WikivoyageSister]] since I won't be on my computer for the next few days. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:59, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::Done, template now updated. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:12, 31 May 2026 (UTC) == Wikidata, adding co-ordinates == [https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Wikidata:Events/Coordinate_Me_2026 COORDI­NATE ME], a wikidata contest for adding geolocation data in 26 chosen countries. Since we use that data & may have data in listings that could be on WD, perhaps some people here could help. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 04:12, 12 May 2026 (UTC) :This contest is wrought with problems, like tracking inaccuracies and errors, unresponsive organizer and delayed prize awards. Take a look at the contest's talk page in previous years to see all the issues it had. I have [https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Grants_talk:Programs/Wikimedia_Community_Fund/General_Support_Fund/WMAT_Multi-Year-Plan_Grant_2025-2027&oldid=27559767 spoken against] funding this year's contest due to fiscal and logistical mismanagement. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 14:52, 12 May 2026 (UTC) :Out of ~300000 listings we have around 4000 are like that - that we have WD for them, but the WD doesn't have coords... Now the question is, if we want to blindly export that, or what..... :) -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 20:56, 12 May 2026 (UTC) ::We also have many cities that have listings but the listings (with or without Wikidata) don't have coords. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 22:12, 15 May 2026 (UTC) == Franks Gatukök Göteborg Central == There is a hamburger and hot dog stand called Franks Gatukök in central Gothenburg (Göteborg in Swedish), right in front of the Gothernburg Central Station. I can personally verify this - I visited it less than a month ago. It also shows up at Google Maps. However, it doesn't appear to have any sort of website. Googling for "Franks Gatukök" gives a link to the site https://www.franksgatukok.se/ which lists several locations in Sweden, none of which is anywhere near Gothenburg Central Station. Their Facebook page doesn't list it either. Does anyone know if there is some sort of website for this location? If there is none, can it be listed on the Gothenburg article anyway? [[User:JIP|JIP]] ([[User talk:JIP|talk]]) 18:24, 15 May 2026 (UTC) :Sure it can be listed! Just don't include a website if there isn't any. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:22, 15 May 2026 (UTC) == A possible editorial action against WMF for laying off Union staff == You should be aware that [[meta:Talk:Community_Wishlist#May_20_update|there's currently a major upheaval]] over the alleged layoff of Community Tech staff by WMF. They're also [[en:Wikipedia:WP:Village_pump_(WMF)#Petition:_Editors_willing_to_join_in_collective_labor_action|discussing imitating a editorial strike in solidarity]] on Wikipedia because the staff that were laid off are members of the [[Meta:Wiki_Workers_United|Wiki Workers United]] union, which was formed just last week and in the process of organization. You might want to get to know them. So far, both have over 50 and 160 signatures, and both will be growing over the coming days. It's getting very significant, and it could impact this wiki, too. After that, if you agree to join in solidarity (and at the moment, pretty much a significant portion of Wikipedians are already in it), '''inform the WWU and [https://cwa-union.org/about/contact-us the CWA].''' Tell them ''everything they need to know going back years'' - and include all known heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis. After ''that''... beats me because of my lack of first-hand experience with labor unions and the like, but as [[:Wikipedia:Jeff the Land Shark|a certain little shark]] might say: {{tq|Murr. (Bite the hand that feeds. And I know where they hide the donuts.)}} [[User:2601AC47|2601AC47]] ([[User talk:2601AC47|talk]]) 19:27, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :@[[User:Asretired|Asretired]]; @[[User:Doc James|Doc James]]; @[[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]]; @[[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]]; @[[User:Mx. Granger|Mx. Granger]]; @[[User:OhanaUnited|OhanaUnited]]; @[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]]; @[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]]; anyone else? [[User:2601AC47|2601AC47]] ([[User talk:2601AC47|talk]]) 19:42, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :Thanks for posting here. But I think we should keep solidarity with a union separate from any grievances any of us might have about supposedly heavy-handed actions by the WMF involving the operation of wikis. My only grievance regarding the treatment of Wikivoyage that I can think of is that it can get lost in the shuffle. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:45, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :Thanks for posting here – for anyone reading, I'd absolutely urge you all to sign yourself in solidarity with WMF staff by adding your name at [[m:Wiki Workers United#Solidarity]] (I'd already done so before the ping). What happened yesterday absolutely reeked of corporatism and union-busting. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:37, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :I am not presently a member of the en.wp community and I would not seek to have anyone edit by proxy there for me or anything like that, but I want to register somewhere that I stand in solidarity with organized labor. There should probably be a [[phab:]] ticket to reform the entire Wikimedia Foundation into a worker-owned co-operative non-profit. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 02:46, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::I find this sort of discussion frustrating, because so few people seem to know what they're talking about. For example, Justin, forgive me for picking on you, but the WMF can't be reformed into "a worker-owned co-operative non-profit", because public charities in the US can't technically be "owned" by anyone. I suggest that anyone who wants to support labor rights would do well to learn more about the subject, and then talk to their own elected politicians about making it ''structurally'' feasible to have a labor union that crosses national borders – not merely a federation of locals that coordinate with each other (which is what "international" labor unions are), but an actual single organization, operating under the same rules, so you don't get the lone employee in this country having a "union" of me, myself, and I or the near-impossibility of writing a contract that is the same for everyone. It's bad enough that US states have different rules (e.g., layoffs above a certain size in California require 60 calendar days' [fully paid] advance notice); it's almost impossible to reconcile different national laws. ::Then you have the problem of people having different cultural conceptions of what a union is supposed to do for you. Is the labor union supposed to get you higher pay, or fairer conditions [which can mean lower pay and worse working conditions for previously privileged staff], or prevent staff from being fired, or organize social events, or help you get your next job, or something else? I know one municipal labor union whose negotiations are done by senior employees that "accidentally" preferred themselves for vacation scheduling, higher pay, and never having to work holidays and weekends for years. I know a couple of people at another organization who are pushing for a union; they seem to mostly be afraid that they will get fired someday but not understand why they were fired (I'm objectively doing well at the parts of my job that I think are important; why should my manager's opinion, or that fact that all my teammates keep quitting to get away from me, be relevant?). ::Apologies for the long post, but: please, don't assume that whatever your local laws or views of unions are would be relevant to any situation that extends outside of your home area. It's really enormously complicated. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:55, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::It's not picking on me, but you are wrong factually: you can have a [https://www.theselc.org/workplace_democracy_in_nonprofit_organizations worker self-directed non-profit 501(c)3 in the United States]. I am generally opposed to any hierarchy that models the way that capitalist businesses can unilaterally hire and fire. Maybe these workers still needed to be fired for some reason, but that should be decided by a democratic process. What <em>that</em> looks like will be different from organization to organization (e.g. a grievances board, administrative leave while under review, managers who are elected on a periodic basis and given the power to hire and fire by the working class, etc.), but when it comes to someone's basic livelihood and the fact that most of us live under wage slavery, then I don't want anyone getting fired without a democratic process behind it or at the very least some kind of extraordinary emergency reason. Additionally, for what it's worth, California (where the WMF are based) has laws specifically designed to help incorporate for-profit businesses as a co-op, so I would imagine that if someone wanted to create a worker self-directed non-profit, that would probably be the easiest place in the United States to do it. Lastly, I don't know why you seem to assume that I don't live in California. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 21:39, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::::"Self-directed" and "owned" are different things. ::::I make no assumptions about where you are; I give the California example because it's one that I know exists in my state and that I know does not exist everywhere. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:08, 23 May 2026 (UTC) :::::By "worker-owned co-op", I am distinguishing it from a member co-op like a grocery co-op or a credit union or a co-op apartment complex. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 23:04, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :On the question of what Wikivoyage needs: :The OP is already blocked on two wikis for trolling and disruptive editing. Their contributions here this year are to import drama that is not directly related to us. This has happened a few times before with other editors (e.g., complaints about software changes). :The Simple English Wikipedia has [https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Blocks_and_bans#Reciprocal a rule called "1STRIKE"] that applies to people who have already been blocked elsewhere (almost always the English Wikipedia), and then bring their bad behavior to Simple. Maybe we should consider adopting a similar rule. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:56, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::They haven't done anything blockable or even against any guidelines here, and to be clear, you're suggesting we should indefinitely block them for informing us about layoffs and anti-union actions? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 18:03, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::I'm suggesting that when someone says "Tell [an external organization] ''everything they need to know going back years'' - and include all known heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis", that this is more like "drama-mongering" than "informing". :::For example, the WMF deployed the current MediaWiki desktop skin several years ago, and some people are still mad about this "heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis". The Russian Wikipedia is still running a pop-up message saying that this was deployed without their consent. Do you think that's relevant to either layoffs or unionizing? I don't. Some of the "heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis" even involved the team that's being dissolved. There are probably still people at the German-language Wikipedia who think that Comm Tech was wrong to decline their urgent wish for the wrong piece of software to be re-installed, when the actual problem was created by their own local interface admins. There are definitely some who are still mad that the WMF stopped two of their admins from wheel-warring over the site config years ago. But none of these "heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis" have anything to do with unionizing. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 19:48, 24 May 2026 (UTC) ::::If you noticed, I addressed that above without saying they should be summarily blocked, and no-one has taken them up on that here, at any rate. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:36, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :::::2601AC47 was globally locked. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-31136-19|&#126;2026-31136-19]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-31136-19|talk]]) 22:53, 24 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::Why? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:02, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::[https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Meta:Requests_for_help_from_a_sysop_or_bureaucrat#c-Tamzin-20260523115300-Trolling/vandalism_at_highly_sensitive_WMF-related_discussion This was the conversation/request]. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 23:06, 24 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::Yeah, I see. They really trolled in that thread. Too bad; I'm indebted to them for informing me about these happenings. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 00:15, 25 May 2026 (UTC) ::We already have [[WV:ONESTRIKE]], by the way, but I really don't think bringing up the attention of the WMF's recent union busting actions is anywhere near disruptive to warrant an indefinitely. If it wasn't them, it almost certainly would've been brought up by someone else in the pub. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:09, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::I signed it in the signatures. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 00:37, 5 June 2026 (UTC) == May 2026 Wikimedia Café meetups regarding the Wikimedia Foundation Annual Plan == <div class="border-box" style="background-color: var(--background-color-warning-subtle, #f8eaba); max-width: 875px; padding: 5px; border: 1px solid black; margin: 5px; color: var(--clr-dark)"> <div class="box" style="float:left; padding-top: 15px; padding-right: 15px;">[[File:Wikimedia Café logo in plain SVG format.svg|75px|alt=The logo for the Wikimedia Café]]</div> Hello! There will be two '''[https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9 Wikimedia Café]''' discussion opportunities during the last weekend of May. Both sessions will focus on the [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Foundation_Annual_Plan/2026-2027 the 2026-2027 Wikimedia Foundation Annual Plan]. Participants may attend either or both sessions. #'''Saturday, 30 May 2026 at 15:00 UTC''' ([https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/1780153200 timestamp converter]), at a time friendly to the Americas, Africa, and Europe #'''Sunday, 31 May 2026 at 05:00 UTC''' ([https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/1780203600 timestamp converter]), at a time friendly to Asia and the Pacific Café participants are highly encouraged to read in advance [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Sohom_Datta/annual_plan_guide at least this summary of the plan]. Optionally, Café participants are encouraged to read portions of the plan that interest them and [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Talk:Wikimedia_Foundation_Annual_Plan/2026-2027 ask questions or provide feedback on the Annual Plan talk page]. Please see the Café page for more information, including [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9#May_2026_meetings_with_a_focus_on_Wikimedia_Foundation_Annual_Plan/2026-2027 tables of timestamp conversions for both sessions], [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9#Agenda._This_will_be_an_approximately_1_hour_Caf%C3%A9_session,_and_is_extendible_for_an_additional_30_minutes_if_needed. the agenda], and [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9#How_to_attend_the_session how to register]! <br /> [[File:Buntstifte Eberhard Faber crop 64h.jpg|860px|alt=cropped image of colored pencils]]</div> <span style="white-space:nowrap;">[[User:Pine|<span style="color:#01796f; text-shadow:#00BFFF 0 0 1.0em">↠Pine</span>]] [[User talk:Pine|<span style="color:DeepSkyBlue">(<b style="color:#FFDF00;text-shadow:#FFDF00 0 0 1.0em">✉</b>)</span>]]</span> 19:48, 21 May 2026 (UTC) == Faroe Islands update == Alright, I'm flying to [[Tórshavn]] next week. Anything on [[Faroe Islands]] that need a listing update, a picture or boots-on-the-ground verification? [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:31, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :Wow, what an opportunity. Our sister site has some [[:w:en:Category:Wikipedia requested photographs in the Faroe Islands|requested photographs]] if you are available to take any. (Note that I'm not a member of the community there and I'm not soliciting editing by proxy.) ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 15:59, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::Heh, I think it wouldn't be controversial to request to take a picture of a village or power plant. I've bookmarked several places and at least two locations are along the way to/from the airport so I have at least two chances to take pictures. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 18:06, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :I notice that [[Faroe Islands#Towns and villages]] says "the roofs are often turf-covered", next to a picture showing no turf-covered roofs. Perhaps you could easily determine whether "often" is still the right word? [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:02, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::Roofs are about 70-80% turf-covered when I see them in villages, but this number drops in bigger towns and only a few houses in the capital have turf roofs. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 23:12, 26 May 2026 (UTC) == Query regarding Kartographer extension == I am an editor at the Malayalam Wikivoyage project, which is currently hosted in [https://incubator.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wy/ml/%E0%B4%AA%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%B0%E0%B4%A7%E0%B4%BE%E0%B4%A8_%E0%B4%A4%E0%B4%BE%E0%B5%BE Incubator]. We recently encountered an issue where map markers were not appearing on maps. We raised a ticket in [https://phabricator.wikimedia.org/T395208 Phabricator], and came to know that the Kartographer extension is being removed. Does anyone here know of any alternative extension or approach that can be used to show markers on maps for denoting places? [[User:Adithyak1997|Adithyak1997]] ([[User talk:Adithyak1997|talk]]) 17:19, 23 May 2026 (UTC) :As far as I'm aware, Kartographer is not being removed as such, just not being added to any non-Wikivoyage WMF wikis. There is a [[phab:project/view/1692/|project board for Kartographer]] on [[phab:]] and you can [[mw:Help:Extension:Kartographergenerally learn more|mw:Help:Extension:Kartographergenerally learn more about]] the extension on [[mw:]]. I imagine that if Kartographer were to be removed, there would be a replacement deployed before that. {{Ping|Jdforrester (WMF)}} can you confirm that I'm correct (or if not, correct me)? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 18:12, 23 May 2026 (UTC) ::{{Ping|Koavf}} Thanks for sharing the links. I have already raised a ticket in Phabricator and it was based on that, I came to know that it will not be enabled on any new Wikivoyages and that it will be removed from other Wikivoyages too. {{Ping|Jdforrester (WMF)}} For your confirmation/comments on above reply please. [[User:Adithyak1997|Adithyak1997]] ([[User talk:Adithyak1997|talk]]) 15:59, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:Adithyak1997|Adithyak1997]]: Indeed, as I said there, " the mode should also have been removed from Wikivoyages". The problem is not with Kartographer but with the 'temporary' hack to allow Wikivoyages to cross-load content from WMCS, which was promised to be removed. :::@[[User:Koavf|Koavf]]: Do you know when the Wikivoyage community will finally do this work? [[User:Jdforrester (WMF)|Jdforrester (WMF)]] ([[User talk:Jdforrester (WMF)|talk]]) 12:57, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I don't have any special insight into that, unfortunately. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 14:38, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I think [[User:Andree.sk|Andree.sk]], [[User:OhanaUnited|OhanaUnited]], and [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] know more about maps than most of us. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:28, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :::::I'm not sure what is expected to be done by us, though? Is kartographer as a whole deprecated, or just some feature of it? Groups? I am completely out of loop here... -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 20:27, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :::::: I have no idea either. The only thing I did that is related to Kartographer is reporting a bug with missing pins on a map whenever some pins fall across both sides of the international date line. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 23:14, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::@[[User:Andree.sk|Andree.sk]]: Yes, Groups, according to https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Extension:Kartographer#Groups_for_Wikivoyage — but it doesn't explain what's the limitation specifically (in general, having groups seems fine?). [[User:Jdforrester (WMF)|Jdforrester (WMF)]] ([[User talk:Jdforrester (WMF)|talk]]) 17:09, 1 June 2026 (UTC) ::::If you don't mind me asking, where was it promised to be removed? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:07, 27 May 2026 (UTC) == [[Template:Other uses]] == Looking at [[Template:Other uses]], I see that it is supposed to generate an italicized hatnote such as the following: :''For other places with the same name, see [[Cleveland (disambiguation)]].'' But where I see {{tl|Other uses}} used on pages such as [[Burbank]] and [[Columbus]], the hatnote is ''not'' italicized: :For other places with the same name, see [[Burbank (disambiguation)]]. :For other places with the same name, see [[Columbus (disambiguation)]]. I checked the template {{tl|Other uses}} itself and I couldn't figure out why the italics are not showing up. Anybody have a suggestion? -- [[User:Metropolitan90|Metropolitan90]] ([[User talk:Metropolitan90|talk]]) 21:46, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :I [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Template%3AOther_uses&diff=5282293&oldid=5282292 removed the CSS classes] and it now renders italicized on pages. The weird thing is that these classes are not part of [[MediaWiki:Common.css]], so ''maybe'' adding non-defined classes results in unstyled text. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 22:56, 24 May 2026 (UTC) == A Pee section on articles == Hey everyone, I suggest adding a “pee” or “poop” section to articles (district, city, region, country), or having articles like “peeing in the (country)” or “peeing in (city)” would be great. Thanks…[[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 12:10, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :I think you're looking for a subsection under the "Respect" section where we are supposed to discuss the regulations regarding defecation and urination. Or public bathrooms under the "Cope" section. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 12:34, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :I think that a title like [[Toilets in the United Arab Emirate]] would be more appropriate and expected. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:53, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::Like if we have “sleep”, “eat” and “see” instead of “accommodation”, “F&B choices” and “attractions”, I think we need a “pee”, “poop”, “urinate”, “defecate”, “excrete”, “eliminate waste”, “dump”, “crap”, “drop a deuce”, “piss”, “whiz”, “micturate”, “/ʃɪt/” section. [[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 18:23, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::: no we don't, not with this type of vocabulary which is very unbecoming for a travel guide. You are welcome to create a WikiPee website, invite whomever you want to join, and write whatever suits your fancy. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 18:48, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::Even if we thought that a "Pee" section was a good label, it's unlikely to be the one that readers are looking for. That's what I meant when I said that "Toilets" might be more "expected". [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:20, 27 May 2026 (UTC) :::I don't think we need such a separate section on it, as [[WV:STICK]] already suggests putting toilets under "Cope". Even if we ever find a need for such a section, I would suggest "Toilet" as a verb. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 02:52, 27 May 2026 (UTC) ::::Okay, but maybe the region doesn’t have any toilets, or the locals pee in a hole, on the floor, or in a valley. Also, I think there are peeing customs or peeing places in the city or country. Is the water quality good? What does it feel like to pee (peeing experience)? That’s why we need a pee section. [[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 18:03, 27 May 2026 (UTC) :::::Yes, as was pointed out Cope is the place for information about toilets and it's indeed useful information for voyagers - especially in destinations where toilets are hard to find for one reason or another. Plainly writing out "Pee", "Shit" or the like as a heading would be rude, though. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:27, 27 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::If we include “pee” in “cope,” the “cope” section will have a lot of information that doesn’t have enough variety. ::::::That’s all— [[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 08:11, 28 May 2026 (UTC) == Vote now in the 2026 U4C election == <section begin="announcement-content" /> Eligible voters are asked to participate in the 2026 [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee|Universal Code of Conduct Coordinating Committee]] election. More information–including an eligibility check, voting process information, candidate information, and a link to the vote–are available on Meta at the [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee/Election/2026|2026 Election information page]]. The vote closes on 2 June 2026 at [https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/1780358400 00:00 UTC]. Please vote if your account is eligible. Results will be available by 14 June 2026. -- In cooperation with the U4C,<section end="announcement-content" /> [[m:User:Keegan (WMF)|Keegan (WMF)]] ([[m:User talk:Keegan (WMF)|talk]]) 17:15, 27 May 2026 (UTC) <!-- Message sent by User:Keegan (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=30513860 --> :btw I'm gonna shamelessly self-promote [[m:User:SHB2000/U4C guide 2026]] if any of you are interested – tried to be comprehensive, use it at your will. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:24, 28 May 2026 (UTC) ::I looked over your list. I'm concerned about the candidate who has an active U4C case, of course, but also about the number of candidates who didn't answer the questions. That suggests that they would struggle to do the work. ::You might look at [[m:Universal Code of Conduct/Coordinating Committee/Election/Campaigning rules]]. What the English Wikipedia calls "canvassing" is allowed. Meta-Wiki has never prohibited it, and in some processes, such as the Community Wishlist, actively encourages it. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:20, 28 May 2026 (UTC) :::It depends, I suppose. Meta doesn't prohibit canvassing, but the overwhelming opinion was that Uncle's canvassing in his NVM application was disruptive enough that it demonstrated a severe lack of understanding for what the role actually was (since NVMs are appointed, not voted in, so consensus isn't really something for the U4C to take into consideration). A massive shame, honestly, because he was one of the more qualified candidates that I had in [[m:User:SHB2000/U4C guide 2025]], one that could've actually had a chance for the SSA seat this year if it weren't for that. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:03, 29 May 2026 (UTC) :::: Having met {{u|Borschts}} in-person during last year's Wikimania, I am comfortable supporting his candidacy. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 00:07, 31 May 2026 (UTC) == New itinerary == The Ganges is one of the most important rivers of Asia, yet there's no itinerary on it, unlike the [[Yellow River]], [[Yangtze]] or the [[Nile]]. So, I have developed one on the Ganges under [[along the Ganges River]], albeit with inspirations from those Chinese rivers. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 14:34, 1 June 2026 (UTC) == User rights nomination == Hey everyone, I know this is a bit late, but there is currently 1 admin nomination right now at [[Wikivoyage:User rights nominations#Koavf (sysop)]]. Your input and opinions are more than appreciated. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:55, 2 June 2026 (UTC) == Simple version of Wikivoyage == Can we create a simple version of Wikivoyage, similar to Simple English Wikipedia? Would this be a good concept, if excecuted properly? [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 06:06, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :While Simple English Wikivoyage sounds good on paper, the Wikimedia Foundation (WMF) currently does not allow creation of Simple English projects other than Wikipedia and Wiktionary. Maybe we could host Simple English Wikivoyage under a separate namespace under English WV (similar to Wikijunior under Wikibooks), but the problem is that the English WV community is already small. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 06:26, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::I've always thought it's possible to potentially execute a multilingual Wikivoyage, but I suppose the need for that with modern translation software now present, is almost zero. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:18, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::The problem with translation software on Wikivoyage is that there's not always one-to-one translations of idiomatic expressions we tend to use in articles (as opposed to Wikipedia). For instance, there's no direct Bengali translation of "smorgasbord" used in [[India]], leading me to reword its Bengali version for a similar expression (like a "forest of languages" instead of a "smorgasbord of languages"). '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:24, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::You should still be able to usually read between the lines, though. At least this is what I often end up doing when translating content from de or itwikivoyage. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:48, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::@[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] @[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]] @[[User:Koavf|Koavf]] What about the simple version of Wikibooks, Wikiquotes, and Wikiversity? [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 08:06, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::None of those would be approved today and [[:q:simple:]] and [[:q:b:]] were closed a long time ago (there was never a simple.wv). Wikibooks has a kind of proxy for simple books at [[:b:Wikibooks:Wikijunior]]. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 08:08, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::Simple English Wikibooks and Wikiquote were closed long time ago, and there has never been Simple English Wikiversity or Wikivoyage. However, you still have Wikijunior for child-oriented books, regular English Wikiquotes for simple English quotes (if there's any), and I guess there's a Wikijunior-like mechanism on regular English Wikiversity. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 08:11, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::Wikijunior is perhaps the only bit of Wikibooks (other than the Cookbook) that's functionally usable icl... //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:54, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::{{Ping|SHB2000}} Do you want to take a look at that above comment? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 09:06, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::Sorry yeah my comment was intended as a reply to yours, not Sbb's. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:32, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :In addition to the fact that the WMF would not allow projects like simple.wp today, the language in Wikivoyage should be very accessible and the concepts are generally pretty easy to understand, so I don't see the need for this as much as for an encyclopedia that covers literally every topic and could plausibly use simplified articles. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 07:34, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::Also, I no longer subscribe to the "Simple English" language ideology I once tried to. I rather focus on accessibility by making complex concepts easier. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:37, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::"Simple English" language ideology? [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 08:13, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::Yes, and that includes limiting your vocabulary to 1500-something words (BE 1500 or VOA Special English), or even less (BE 850). However, I sometimes find it limiting (maybe Orwellian), although I don't use any overly complicated expressions, and my focus is towards simplifying concepts rather than using simple words. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 08:16, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::This is part of why I think wikis like tokwiki (an experimental language crafted on the basis of minimising the amount of words used) are absolutely useless (see [[m:User:SHB2000/tokwiki]] if you want a full explanation) – you limit expression in a needless way when there's a clear alternative available that's more practical. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:57, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::The processes that created a city or landscape are often convoluted, but their description need not be. Difficult-to-read text on WV more often reflects muddle and "wikipeditis" than inherent complexity. The solution is to re-write in a way that's clear, engaging and relevant to the traveller, not to invent a whole separate site or pidgin language. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 11:36, 5 June 2026 (UTC) : I'll give this idea a rather firm '''oppose'''. We do not have enough editors to readily support it. However, there is a valid concern about keeping the English here relatively simple. : Many of our readers will have English that is somewhat limited & quite a few editors are non-native speakers, though they all seem to have good to excellent English. Idioms are tricky in any language, so perhaps we should replace "take to his heels" with "run away" & so on. Cultural references are also tricky, whether Shakespeare or some blues tune; some of those need to be avoided or explained. Of course there is a trade-off here; we want a relaxed informal style & that implies idiomatic English with some cultural references. I'd say we are at least close to the correct balance already. : Expressions peculiar to one variety of English -- e.g. "lakh" in Subcontinent English -- should be explained if visitors are likely to encounter them, but generally avoided in our text. Expressions that vary across dialects -- does a car have a hood & trunk or bonnet & boot? -- involve judgement calls; in some contexts they are OK but in others they should be avoided or provided with a gloss. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 14:45, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :*'''Oppose''' - as per [[User:Pashley]] we do not have enough editors to support a "Simple" version. I checked a few statistics and found: :::{| class="wikitable" |- !Product !Articles !Editors |- |English Wikipedia |7,191,087 |278,463 |- |Simple WIkipedia |281,811 |3,759 |- |Wikivoyage |180,828 |985 |} :::*'''Note''' - An "editor" is classed as somebody who has made at least one edit in the last 30 days. ::This shows that in rough figures, for every Simple English editor, there are 80 English Wikipedia editors. If we were to translate this to Wikivoyage, we could expect between 10 and 15 editors on Simple English Wikivoyage which is not enough to sustain the project. Applying the same logic to number of articles, we might expect about 6000 articles - not enough to attract a reasonable readership. ::The quality of articles in Simple English Wikipedia is poor - far too few meet the criteria of using "Simple English". Simple English is moreover bedevilled by there being no agreement as to whether the target audience are younger readers or readers for whom English is a second language. Translating this to the proposed Simple English Wikivoyage to whom should we target questions regarding drugs, trans people, red light districts etc - younger readers or adult readers for who Eglish is a second language? ::[[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 16:59, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::Wow, I never expected this discussion to get many responses from different people on this pub. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 20:43, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::Some of you may be interested in reading [[m:Writing clearly#Writing for translation]]. The idea is to make your writing straightforward enough that it would be easy to translate. Machine translation, in particular, does best with shorter, simpler sentences. This doesn't mean that every sentence must be short and simple, but it is helpful if the most important parts are short and simple. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 19:08, 6 June 2026 (UTC) n2cbxbmk5dcemlox3yctqypd6podatk 5288935 5288934 2026-06-06T19:47:24Z Pashley 1822 /* Simple version of Wikivoyage */ 5288935 wikitext text/x-wiki <div style="text-align:left; background: var( --wv-optional-color, #f4f7fa); color: var( --color-base ); border: 1px solid #abc; padding: .3em; margin-bottom: 1.5em"> <div style="text-align:center; font-size:300%; line-height: 1; padding: 10px;">'''Welcome to the pub'''</div> {{shortcut|[[WV:Pub]]|[[WV:TP]]}} [[File:QA_icon_clr.svg|right|frameless|150px|link=]] The travellers' pub is for general discussion on Wikivoyage, and the place to ask questions when you're confused, lost, afraid, tired, annoyed, thoughtful, or helpful. To start a new topic, click the "Add topic" tab, so that it gets added '''at the bottom''' of the page, and sign your post by appending four tildes (<nowiki>~~~~</nowiki>) Before asking a question or making a comment: * Have a look at our [[Wikivoyage:Help|Help]], [[Wikivoyage:FAQ|FAQ]] and [[Wikivoyage:Policies|Policies]] pages. * If you are a '''new user''' and you have any questions about using the website, try the [[Wikivoyage:Arrivals lounge|Arrivals lounge]]. * If you have a '''question or suggestion about a particular article''', use the article's [[Project:using talk pages|talk page]] to keep the discussion associated with that article. * If you'd like to '''draw attention to a comment''' to '''get feedback''' from other Wikivoyagers, try [[Wikivoyage:Requests for comment|Requests for comment]]. * If you are '''wanting travel advice on a specific matter''' see the [[Wikivoyage:Tourist office|tourist office]]. * If you have an '''issue you need to bring to the attention of an administrator''', try [[Wikivoyage:Ongoing vandalism|Ongoing vandalism]]. * If you are having a '''problem that you think has to do with the [[mw:|MediaWiki software]]''', please post that on [[phab:|Phabricator]] instead. * If you want to '''celebrate a significant contribution''' to Wikivoyage by yourself or others, hold a party at [[Project:Celebrate a contribution|Celebrate a contribution]]. * Discuss '''issues related to more than one language version''' of Wikivoyage in the [[meta:Wikivoyage/Lounge|Wikivoyage Lounge]] on Meta. * Anything that is '''Nigeria-related''' is now meant to go in the [[Wikivoyage:Nigeria café|Nigeria café]] instead. Anything that is '''Kosovo or Albania related''' is now meant to go in the [[Wikivoyage:Kosovo and Albania cafe|Kosovo and Albania café]] instead. This includes announcements, initiatives, celebrations, and issues with certain articles. You can review old Pub discussions in the [[Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub/Archives]]. '''Pull up a chair and join in the conversation!''' [{{fullurl:Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub|action=edit&section=new}} '''Click here to start a new thread'''] </div> {{WikivoyageDoc|collaboration}} <!-- Discussions start here --> __TOC__ __NEWSECTIONLINK__ == Wikivoyage World Cup 2026 == Hey everyone!   We at Wikimedia Small Projects are excited to suggest bringing the Wikivoyage communities together once more for a event—you know, just in time for the 2026 World Cup! We’re calling it the "Wikivoyage World Cup 2026," and we’d love for you to be part of it. Here are some of our hopes for the event:   * To bring all our active Wikivoyage communities together—especially those speaking Spanish, English (yes, I know this is the right community), and French, since they’re connected to the host countries.   * To team up with local chapters like Wikimedia Mexico, Wikimedia Canada, and the affiliates in the United States.   * To improve existing articles and create new ones about Canada, Mexico, and the United States.   * To have a centralnotice to keep everyone in the loop. We’re thinking of holding the event from June 11 to August 20, so it’s a good idea to start getting things ready now. I know this has [[Talk:2026 FIFA World Cup|come up before]], and I’d really love for you to join us in coordinating the event and reaching out to affiliates and/or volunteers who might be interested. Regards, [[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]] ([[User talk:Lord Ravager|talk]]) 03:03, 25 March 2026 (UTC) :Like last time, I'm happy to judge/evaluate the articles submitted as part of this contest once again. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:36, 25 March 2026 (UTC) ::I support this initiative. I would say that it should be open to all Wikivoyage languages since many dominant national football teams don't use English, French or Spanish (looking at you, Portugal, Brazil and Germany). [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:58, 15 April 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]] Can you let us know when this is set up? [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:54, 19 April 2026 (UTC) :I'm happy to do so... and I'm happy to clean up articles regarding football as well. [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 15:33, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :@[[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]]: Any updates on this btw? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:32, 27 May 2026 (UTC) ::I apologize for the delay. We've been busy with the educational program and the event taking place in Mérida. I'll be contacting the communities in the next few days and requesting CentralNotice to publicize the event. Regards, [[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]] ([[User talk:Lord Ravager|talk]]) 23:36, 2 June 2026 (UTC) == New feature: Travel Tracker (RfC) == IRL procrastination, a random shower thought for better user retention, and 100 or so Gemini prompts (i.e. AI/vibecoding): the results of that led me to create [[Wikivoyage:Travel Tracker]]. It's a personal tool that any logged in user can use to track which countries they've visited. No scripts that need to be installed, just go to [[Special:MyPage/Visited]] and check it out for yourself. Why? Part of what got me hooked into [https://www.jetpunk.com/ Jetpunk] was exactly their country tracker. Many people use online sites to track their travels nowadays. The idea is so that casual users – users that occasionally edit Wikivoyage but only ever so often, perhaps choose to use this travel tracker, then are immediately incentivised to update their travel maps after visiting somewhere new, hopefully also updating some actual articles in the process. The tool still has many teething issues, some that will take time to fix, but it's usable for the most part. Alongside Andree's [[Wikivoyage:Trip Planner|trip planner]], I hope this too can be added to the topbar. I'm also planning on perhaps creating a similar tool for US/Indian/Mexican/Brazilian states, depending on how things go. Any feedback/fixes appreciated and welcome. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:43, 9 April 2026 (UTC) :This works well for me at first glance! (I found one glitch, "Bosnia and Herzegovina" isn't shading for me.) It would be fun to have a way to note regions and cities as well, then I'd probably use it as a "Places I've visited"/"Articles I've worked on" section on my User Page. [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 16:28, 9 April 2026 (UTC) ::The glitch is unfortunately a long-standing property of kartographer - it here are too many regions, it may not display all of them. Also, sometimes the OSM data import breaks. E.g. Thailand shape is quite broken currently, too. -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 19:07, 9 April 2026 (UTC) :::Yeah for the first I've found usually just a hard cache solves that issue. OSM data import breaks yeah I have no idea how to fix that (similar issue with Singapore too). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:47, 9 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Created [[:phab:T422902]] for the Thailand/Singapore issue – seems to be a pretty widespread problem across WMF projects so I def think it's worth this getting looked into by more technical people than us. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:59, 10 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Also have given the tracker a little bit of a revamp in terms of style + few finishing touches (like a numerical counter). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:05, 10 April 2026 (UTC) :For some reason Q38 (Italy) was added twice for me, using purely the editor. Otherwise, nice work :-) -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 19:05, 9 April 2026 (UTC) ::Ah, I see the issue (Estonia mistakenly had the Wikidata item of Italy) – fixed! :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:51, 9 April 2026 (UTC) :::It's a fun tool. To make it more interesting, you could also provide an option to break it down by region (state, province, etc.) for the top ten countries by population or area. [[User:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">Gizza</span>]]^{(<i>[[User_talk:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">roam</span>]]</i>)} 03:23, 10 April 2026 (UTC) :I've added this tool to the topbar – should work in both vector 2010 and vector 2022, but not skins older than that. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:51, 12 April 2026 (UTC) :Wow, that feature works, on Temporary Accounts too. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 12:36, 12 April 2026 (UTC) ::Since temporary accounts only lasts for 90 days from initial creation, @[[User:~2026-69216-3|~2026-69216-3]] you may want to create an account soon because your current temporary account will expire by the end of this month. As for the tool itself, I noticed that your shaded countries don't show up on my end. On the broader picture, I propose that we limit this tool to registered accounts. Otherwise we will potentially have tonnes of abandoned Temporary Account map pages that people can't access after 3 months. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 04:45, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :::I'd go further and say that I don't think temporary accounts should be able to create userspace pages at all for the same reason you mention. Maybe I'll start a separate discussion for that sometime later. But yeah @[[User:~2026-69216-3|~2026-69216-3]] in your case, would recommend doing that (and then perhaps moving your map to your userspace under a registered account). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:17, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::::If they can't create a User: space page, then they'll have a harder time telling us some things that we want to know (ordinary user page content, like languages spoken), and they won't be able to create a sandbox for testing, which could lead to making more mistakes in the mainspace. ::::Also, at the moment, this is not a big problem. [https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Special:RecentChanges?userExpLevel=unregistered&hidebots=1&hidepageedits=1&hidecategorization=1&hideWikibase=1&hidelog=1&hidenewuserlog=1&namespace=2&limit=1000&days=30&urlversion=2 Almost none are being created], and [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?search=prefix%3AUser%3A~202&title=Special:Search&ns0=1 only 14 exist in total]. ::::When we reach the point of having, say, 100 or 500 or some other large number of such pages, I think we could have a generous deletion policy for User: pages, but I don't think we need a wholesale ban. By "generous", I mean that if it's more than, say, a year old and just test edits (or actually problematic in some way), then any admin should feel free to delete it. I do not mean that an admin marks their calendar to search and delete all User: pages because it just annoys the admin's sense of tidiness that ''those'' contributors were allowed to create pages in the User: space. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:41, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :::::Hmm that's true, you do have a point especially because "Draft:" isn't a namespace here. I'll try to think of how else we could solve that issue. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:52, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::That is okay to me. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 00:40, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::Still any particular reason why you haven't just created an account btw? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:42, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::::For me, I have a preference. I would rather edit as temporary user, other than creating the registered or named account. I do not plan to stick around as much in the future. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 20:32, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::::I didn't propose to restrict Temporary Accounts from creating any "User:" pages. I am only proposing restriction on TAs creating the "/visited" pages because they can't stick around past 90 days. From a technical standpoint, is there a way to display a message only to TAs that "hey, you can use this tool locally but if you want to truly save it or show it to friends, you need to register an account"? [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:06, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :I went to see if I could embed this on my main User page. Could you add an easy way to suppress the checkboxes, maybe by a flag on the VisitedMap template? Not only would that make this map embeddable, it would make it harder for me to check boxes on other people's pages! [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 21:14, 12 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Gerode|Gerode]]: You should be able to now embed this on your userpage (just by transcluding <nowiki>{{User:Gerode/Visited}}</nowiki>). Suppressing the checkboxes I've got planned, probably using the abuse filter (since there are ''some'' cases where I think it's okay and I'd rather a warn system over a complete disallow). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:36, 12 April 2026 (UTC) Is there a limit to how many countries the tracker can show? On [[User:Asamboi/Visited|my map]], a bunch of random countries (the UK, France, Spain, Philippines, Laos) are not showing up even though they're selected. [[User:Asamboi|Asamboi]] ([[User talk:Asamboi|talk]]) 03:12, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :Usually it's a cache issue – [[Special:Purge]] should do the trick (they appear for me on your map). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:39, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::I would recommend adding a "refresh" button which functions like it's a purge, with a line telling user to click on the refresh button if the map doesn't update or have countries missing. We can't expect new users to know a special page. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 13:49, 15 April 2026 (UTC) I like this idea (have always thought about it). It also pairs well with [[User:OhanaUnited/Edits around the world challenge|the world editing challenge]]. But at first save Australia and New Zealand weren't shaded until I refresh the page. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 04:35, 13 April 2026 (UTC) : Echoing other comments, this is a nice little gadget, I tried it out the other day. An idea for how to develop it further would be an additional layer for countries the user would like to visit (maybe in green or red?). In addition to Singapore which was mentioned above, also the main part of Morocco does not want to show up. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:26, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::So far I've fixed Thailand and HK on OSM. Singapore should be easy to fix, and I'll have to look into what's causing the issue for [[Serbia]] and [[Morocco]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:51, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :::SG now also fixed. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:05, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::: Uganda is not shown. --[[User:RolandUnger|RolandUnger]] ([[User talk:RolandUnger|talk]]) 05:39, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::::It seems to show for me – you might need to clear your cache or give it a refresh. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:45, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::Serbia's mapping to Kosovo. Let's not start the next world war shall we? :) [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 17:20, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::::I [https://www.openstreetmap.org/changeset/181317764 tried] to fix it last night – ig a waiting game to see how long it'll take for this change to be mirrored here. :P //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:13, 15 April 2026 (UTC) :::::[https://www.openstreetmap.org/changeset/181357478#map=6/28.61/-9.16 And Morocco]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:32, 15 April 2026 (UTC) ::::{{re|OhanaUnited}} Both Serbia and Morocco now fixed. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:43, 16 April 2026 (UTC) :::::mexico, belize, panama, costa rica, Brazil, Argentina, Tunisia, Spain, Portugal (and probably a few more I have missed are not working for me). Is there a limit to how many you can add? [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 03:10, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::@[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] @[[User:Andree.sk|Andree.sk]] I debugged this some more and I am seeing a call to https://maps.wikimedia.org/geoshape?getgeojson for every single country in the map. So for 195 countries, the browser tries to open 195 concurrent or sequential connections. ::::::This architecture doesn't scale with our traffic and is currently triggering 429 requests which is likely why many of the countries are not showing for people. This also increases the risk that this feature could interfere with tools and other features on that site that may in future get rate limited. ::::::Can we look to get this fixed sometime next week, given this risk here? I suggest we use a single request with a pipe-separated or comma-separated list of Q-ids if that's possible or at minimum batch the queries with setTimeout and caching using mw.storage for subsequent requests. [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 19:35, 19 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::If it's possible to fix this, that would be appreciated (I'm not entirely sure how to make it such – I'm also a bit preoccupied this week and life irl has been quite hazy, but I'll give it a shot). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:08, 19 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::::I've tried batching [[Module:VisitedMap]] – does that perhaps solve some of the issues? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:14, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::::Yes! That seems to have done the trick! Thank you for the speedy fix! [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 04:20, 20 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::Awesome! Glad to know that works. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:24, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::Do you know the reason why the link to the travel map doesn't appear on Traveller's pub page? It shows up on all other pages (Wikivoyage namespace, mainspace, user page space, etc.) [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 17:02, 11 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::I can see it in the 'usual spot' (under the user icon), but only when you scroll all the way up. When the icons transform into the 'top bar', the submenu doesn't contain the entry. -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 19:30, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::This is on vector 2022 I take it? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:40, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :New bug I've noticed, once again with the Kartographer extension: for some reason, Germany and the Netherlands don't show up for anyone, but it works perfectly fine using {{tl|mapshape}}. I took a cursory look and there was nothing I could really pinpoint that was causing this issue, so maybe a phabricator task is needed? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:57, 31 May 2026 (UTC) ::Interesting, the issue seems to have fixed itself overnight. Kartographer is weird man... //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:27, 1 June 2026 (UTC) == Bug: Creating new listings with tool drops wikidata tag == Replicable bug: if you create a new listing, and add something to the `wikidata` element, it gets dropped when you save. Is there an open bug for this? Or can somebody point me at the source code? [[User:Asamboi|Asamboi]] ([[User talk:Asamboi|talk]]) 03:15, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :probably a question for @[[User:Andyrom75|Andyrom75]] or @[[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] at [[Wikivoyage:Listing_editor]] -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 07:14, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Asamboi|Asamboi]], I'm not sure I got your point. In [[Plovdiv]] I've created a new listing as a test with Wikidata field duly filled. It worked (then I removed it). Could you please check it and let me know what I misunderstood? Thanks, [[User:Andyrom75|<span style="color:#BB0000; font-family:Papyrus; font-size:12px">'''Andyrom75'''</span>]] ([[User talk:Andyrom75|talk]]) 12:55, 13 April 2026 (UTC) == FYI: Guide.world collection of travel guides == https://guide.world/ —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 19:31, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :Odd that it mentions Wikipedia but not Wikivoyage… [[User:HyperAnd|HyperAnd]] ([[User talk:HyperAnd|talk]]) 20:48, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::It links to guides by one author 21 times, and another gets 7 links. I wouldn't regard it as a neutral list, and it may deliberately avoid listing worldwide guides - the major commercial guides also don't get a mention. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:42, 14 April 2026 (UTC) == New Nigeria Expedition? == There seems to be an influx of new Nigeria articles. Is this related to any known event, or another event in violation of the [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers|event organizer]] policy? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:52, 17 April 2026 (UTC) :It looks like 21 new articles were posted. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:40, 17 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Bigcee007|User:Bigcee007]], @[[User:Viva33|User:Viva33]], @[[User:Ngozi scholar Okafor|Ngozi scholar Okafor]], @[[User:Celetex|User:Celetex]], @[[User:Senator Choko|User:Senator Choko]], @[[User:OGA Goody|User:OGA Goody]], @[[User:Adakaibe|User:Adakaibe]] (and please read [[WV:Naming conventions#Disambiguation]], which is not done in the same style on this site as on Wikipedia), @[[User:Akwugo|User:Akwugo]], @[[User:Chikwas|User:Chikwas]], @[[User:IfyClassique|User:IfyClassique]], @[[User:Bigkotech|User:Bigkotech]], @[[User:Nneka Ibeanu|User:Nneka Ibeanu]], @[[User:Ennydavids|User:Ennydavids]]: Can you all tell us what is going on and link the organizing page for us? Who trained you in how to edit on Wikivoyage? Thanks. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:39, 17 April 2026 (UTC) :::...and {{ping|Goodymeraj}} who posted a block appeal on behalf of someone else on my talk page. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:42, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Good morning sir. I posted the appeal. We are currently on a project of visibilizing some Nigerian communities on Wikivoyage. The users you mentioned and tagged above are part of the exercise. Bigcee007 is one of them. That's why I'm appealing on his behalf. Thank you so much [[User:Goodymeraj|Goodymeraj]] ([[User talk:Goodymeraj|talk]]) 05:52, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::@[[User:Goodymeraj|Goodymeraj]], please answer the questions we've asked you. Also, importantly, have you read [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers]]? If not, read it right away! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:54, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::Please which other questions did you ask that I've not answered. And yes, I read the Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers [[User:Goodymeraj|Goodymeraj]] ([[User talk:Goodymeraj|talk]]) 05:58, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::And when did you inform us about this event prior to it happening and solicit our advice and collaboration? Read and answer the questions in this thread. I see no reason to repost them. They are in the first and third posts in this thread. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:53, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::{{re|Goodymeraj}}...so it was you behind this expedition? What do you mean you've read the event organizers policy, but then failed to do ''every'' single step listed on that page? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:33, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::We have to decide what to do about this; by all appearances, it's exactly what the event organizers policy is supposed to prevent, and everyone involved is so far evading all our questions. Should we be asking right now whether all of the edits should be reverted and all the participants should be blocked, or is the more salient question whether the organizer should be banned? Our policy is either in force or it's a dead letter, so it's important for us to figure out the best course of action and take it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 15:31, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::: Can everyone please calm down a bit? I can see why Ikan asks the questions above, but I definitely do not think we should answer yes to either of them. Both the organiser & the participants appear to be acting in good faith, so heavy-handed measures should be avoided if possible. ::::: A lot of our coverage of Africa is quite weak & we definitely want contributions from new users with local knowledge. Yes, the inevitable new user blunders are irritating, but nothing that cannot be dealt with. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 16:11, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::It's the eternal paradox of the new editors: Newbies are 'expensive', but the community will die without them. ::::::As we discussed months ago at [[Wikivoyage talk:Welcome, event organizers#A draft of a substitute for the text on this page]] I'm not convinced that banning organizers is the right choice, especially on a "first offense", when we can't know whether they read the page ''before'' the event. ::::::I do think these articles need improving. Picking one at random, [[Igbo-Ukwu]] is a site of archaeological significance. The population is around 75,000, so it's the kind of place we probably ought to have an article on. It would be nice to have information added to this article (e.g., hotels, restaurants, [https://igboukwu.org/festivals/ several festivals]), but I'm not sad that we have five sentences instead of zero. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:15, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::People acting in good faith would answer our questions. The silence in reply to them is deafening. We need answers ASAP. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:02, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::{{re|Ikan Kekek}} I'd personally ban the organizer for both failing to adhere to the event organizer policy, and also blatantly lying about having read the page. Maybe I'd give a 24–48-hour grace period (from the time of your message), because any longer and that just increases the workload for everyone else trying to clean their mess. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:21, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::And also for playing dumb ("Please which other questions did you ask that I've not answered") and refusing to answer any of the questions at the top of the thread. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:28, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::You're assuming there actually was "an" organizer (possible, but not certain) and that the group didn't get together for fun and decide at the last minute to edit Wikivoyage instead of Wikipedia. If so, I'm sure they won't make that mistake again, after this [[WV:FUN]] reaction. Consider: :::::::* "Have you read [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers]]? If not, read it right away!" :::::::And then when the person did read it, you react like they should have traveled back in time to implement it retroactively: :::::::* "What do you mean you've read the event organizers policy, but then failed to do ''every'' single step listed on that page?" :::::::I think this is the most important question that's been asked so far: :::::::* Can everyone please calm down a bit? :::::::[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:47, 20 April 2026 (UTC) == Sign language phrasebooks == Would it be appropriate to make sign language phrasebooks? Such languages are actually in use, especially in places that have concentrated deaf communities, unlike say, Latin. [[User:HyperAnd|HyperAnd]] ([[User talk:HyperAnd|talk]]) 21:10, 17 April 2026 (UTC) :Absolutely! How would you do it? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:40, 17 April 2026 (UTC) ::Now that's the tricky part. Most of the notation used to write sign languages aren't very readable to an average traveller. We could simply just use video, but video isn't very editable for a wiki, so it should be supplemented with written notation if possible. The most promising notation I see are [[wikt:Appendix:Sign language entry names|Wiktionary's notation]] and [[w:SignWriting]]. Wiktionary's notation doesn't use hard-to-understand symbols, but it's non-visual. SignWriting is very visual, but we need to enable a gadget to render it because most devices can't handle 2D arrangement of text. The gadget is [[mw:Extension:SignWriting MediaWiki Plugin]], but unfortunately it's largely unmaintained. Here's the gadget implemented on [[incubator:Wp/ase|ASL Wikipedia in the incubator]] if you want to see how it looks (though it doesn't render on the mobile skin). [[User:HyperAnd|HyperAnd]] ([[User talk:HyperAnd|talk]]) 00:37, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::My feeling is, if it can be useful to travelers, do it. I think video and pictures are most useful. I couldn't make head or tails of the ASL symbols, but is it important for travelers to know them? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:59, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::My take: for most travelers, probs not – but I can see these phrasebooks being useful in the odd situation and I don't see an issue with sign language phrasebooks if someone is willing to create them and make such phrasebook useful. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:05, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::Well, many deaf and hard of hearing people read and edit websites, and there are various different sign languages, so I think sign language "phrasebooks" would be very useful to that segment of our readership and also people with keen hearing who want to communicate with them. The difficulty, if anything, is that these would be primarily video or picture phrasebooks, but the concept is the same and the need is clear. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 08:18, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::I think sign language phrasebooks would be welcome, but I do see practical difficulties. I understand that there are several English based sign languages: American Sign Language, British Sign Language, New Zealand Sign Language etc which may be difficult for sign users. The phrasebook would need to be illustrated with photos (or drawings) unless we change [[Wikivoyage:Image policy]] to allow short videos in this exceptional case. I don't think wiki editing of a video is an issue if videos are kept short (less than 10 seconds) so editing is done by uploading a replacement, as with photos. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 21:07, 19 April 2026 (UTC) == New user problems == The project certainly needs new users, especially in areas where our coverage is weak. On the other hand, new users often do various problematic things because they naturally are not familiar with local policies & conventions. Overall, I think the old hands here do a reasonable job of correcting problems, welcoming people & pointing out issues, though there are times when some of the regulars need a reminder of [[Wikivoyage:Keep Wikivoyage fun]] and [[Wikivoyage_talk:Welcome,_copyeditors#Discouraging New Wikivoyage Editors|don't bite the newbies]]. I also think most new users do quite well at learning & adapting. Are there ways we could improve this? We point new users to [[Wikivoyage:Tips for new contributors]]; does that need improvements ([[Wikivoyage_talk:Tips_for_new_contributors#Reorganize]])? What about [[Template:Welcome]]? In particular, should the template text be shortened, deleting things that duplicate parts of the Tips page? There are things we could do in software, but should we? Make the signup software display a link to Tips? Have the software that creates user pages automatically add the template? Have a bot that looks for empty "User talk:" pages & drops the template on them? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 11:49, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :Would you like to propose any specific edits? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:27, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :About making [[Special:CreateAccount]] display a link to Tips: How many of our first-time editors are creating a new account here? I believe that many of our contributors already have accounts from Wikipedia or Commons. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:39, 20 April 2026 (UTC) == Summer of Wikivoyage in Albania and Kosovo 2026 == Hi everyone, just a quick note to share that the [[M:Wikimedians of Albanian Language User Group|Wikimedians of Albanian Language User Group]] will be organizing the Summer of Wikivoyage Edit-a-thon 2026 on May 8–9. This year, we are focusing on [[Kukës]], Albania, and other travel destinations in Albania and Kosovo in English language. There will be an offline event, and everyone is also welcome to join online on Saturday from 10:00–17:00 (GMT+2) on [https://meet.jit.si/WoALUG here]. See you there! Thank you! [[User:Vyolltsa|Vyolltsa]] ([[User talk:Vyolltsa|talk]]) 15:21, 21 April 2026 (UTC) :Awesome, and thanks for the notice! I look forward to working with the group. The edit-a-thons on Albania and Kosovo are always done well. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:46, 21 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Vyolltsa|Vyolltsa]], thanks again! ::@[[User:Ruhan.paco|Ruhan.paco]], @[[User:Enarda Muhadri|Enarda Muhadri]] and @[[User:ErgisaHoxha|ErgisaHoxha]], welcome, and thanks for adding information! ::There are three things I want to call your attention to: ::(1) Default address information (starting with the name of the town, if it's the same as the article title) is not included in addresses on this site. ::(2) The "directions" tab in listings is a place for a parenthetical phrase (so no sentences) and includes only things like cross streets and if someplace is directly across the street or down the block from a huge landmark like the main railway station. ::(3) Wikivoyage does not approve of stating in any listing that anyplace is "near" x or y, because that is vague though possibly promotional and usually not worth noting if an address - and even better, [[WV:Geocoding|geocoordinates]] - are provided. ::@[[User:MegiNnnnn|MegiNnnnn]], some of your edits have another, more basic issue addressed by [[User:Ground Zero]] on your user talk page: a lack of information. All listings must include street addresses, geocoding (latitude/longitude) or at least some kind of way for readers to find them, and if at all possible, contact information, too. ::I hope I didn't leave anyone out. Please feel free to share these words of advice among your collaborators! ::All my best, ::[[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 09:57, 9 May 2026 (UTC) :::I'm not going to name names here, but I had to delete a listing for [[WV:DT|touting]] and obviously copying and pasting from a promotional site in violation of [[Wikivoyage:Copyleft]]. Don't do that. And also, please use [[WV:Listings]] templates for all specific listings (not general activities like fishing, though). [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:06, 9 May 2026 (UTC) ::::Welcome to @[[User:Ledion Aga|Ledion Aga]], @[[User:MrsNora|MrsNora]], @[[User:MrsHajrie|MrsHajrie]], @[[User:Marigen Kovaçi|Marigen Kovaçi]], and please look over this subthread. I may have left someone out. Is there a complete list of participants somewhere? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:11, 9 May 2026 (UTC) ::Some of the contributors may not able to understand your comments without our support. Please give us some time to clean up. Here is the full list of [https://outreachdashboard.wmflabs.org/courses/WoALUG/Wikivoyage_Kuk%C3%ABs_2026/home edits from the participants]. Thank you for your understanding! [[User:Arianit|Arianit]] ([[User talk:Arianit|talk]]) 16:14, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :::Sure thing. Thanks for all you do! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 16:46, 11 May 2026 (UTC) == Wiki Loves Bangla 2026 has started, Join Now! == <div style="padding:15px; font-size:120%; line-height:1.6; margin:10px 0; border:2px solid #c90023; background-color:#FFFFFF;color:var(--color-base-fixed,#202122); border-radius:8px;"> [[File:Wiki Loves Bangla wordmark logo-en.svg|right|100px|frameless|link=Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2025]] Hello, We are excited to announce that [[c:Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2026/en|Wiki Loves Bangla 2026]] has started! This year’s theme focuses on '''Bengal festivals''', inviting participants to capture and share images and videos of the diverse cultural celebrations across Bengal. '''[[c:Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla|Wiki Loves Bangla]]''' is an international photography contest on Wikimedia Commons aimed at documenting Bengali culture and heritage worldwide. It is organised annually as part of the [[meta:Bangla Culture and Heritage Collation Program|Bangla Culture and Heritage Collation Program]], with a dedicated theme each year. '''How You Can Participate''', it's easy and simple, and every upload contributes to the world's largest free knowledge repository: [[File:পাতি মাছরাঙ্গা (Alcedo atthis), জাতীয় উদ্ভিদ উদ্যান ঢাকা.jpg|thumb|right|200px|link=Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2025|Winning image from Wiki Loves Bangla 2025. ''Attribution: [[User:Ashraf747|Ashraf747]] / [[CreativeCommons:by-sa/4.0|CC BY-SA 4.0]]'']] * '''Capture''': Take photos or videos of Bengal festivals. * '''Upload''': Share your files to Wikimedia Commons between '''14 April and 15 May 2026'''. * '''Win''': A total of '''USD 1,100''' in prizes. Ready to get started? [https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:UploadWizard&uselang=bn&campaign=Wlbangla Click here to upload your media], or visit the [[Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2026/en|main project page]] for full details. Your contributions help document and preserve Bengal’s rich cultural heritage for the world. For any questions, email us or join our [https://t.me/WikiLovesBangla Telegram group]. Warm regards,<br> '''Wiki Loves Bangla Team'''. <nowiki>#WikiLovesBangla</nowiki> </div> [[User:Moheen|<span style="text-shadow:#8b9dc3 3px 3px 2px;"><span style="font family:'All Things Pink'" color="#3b5998"><b>~ Moheen</b></span></span>]] [[User Talk:Moheen|^{(keep talking)}]] 20:50, 21 April 2026 (UTC) :I hope the event is a smashing success! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:36, 22 April 2026 (UTC) ::Seconded, would be even more amazing if some of those photos submitted can be used in some of our articles here. Either way, all the best, [[User:Moheen|Moheen]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:52, 22 April 2026 (UTC) == Abolishing the see, do, eat and drink sections of region articles == {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Outline regions}} – that's the number of outline region articles there are at present. Out of {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Region articles}}. That puts the number of outline region articles at about 68%, as of writing this message. A majority of articles you'll stumble across will have no content in either the see, do, eat and drink sections, and it's very explainable: writing content in most region articles is a fairly time-consuming exercise whilst simultaneously also being one of the least read sections. In most cases, we want people to focus more on the understand, get in and get around sections for region articles rather than things to see or do, let alone eat/drink (which should really be mostly covered by individual city/park articles). My solution is rather simple: remove the see, do, eat and drink sections as mandatory headings for outline and usable articles (but they should be a requirement for guide and star articles) so the site can have a bit of a more polished look. This site has had over 20 years to prove that these sections have been useful, and they haven't. I'm aware this is a bit different to all our other categories of articles, but regions are a bit of a unique case in that a) we don't list individual listings on region pages and b) the see, do, eat and drink sections provide so little value in a majority of cases. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:10, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :I thought eat, drink and sleep were already optional for region articles. See and do shouldn't be optional. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:33, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::Sleep is, but not eat/drink per [[Wikivoyage:Region article template]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:38, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :::Let's make eat and drink optional, but I disagree with making see and do optional. There needs to be a summary of things or at least types of things to see and do in a region for it to be really usable. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:11, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::::That's fair I suppose –&nbsp;I don't feel too strongly about see/do so I'm fine with just eat/drink if that's what we all want. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:12, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :::::We might want to have a discussion on the [[Wikivoyage talk:Region article template]] page to make it official, don't you think? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:23, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::All that this can achieve is to make the metrics look a bit better, by lowering the quality threshold for a regional page to be considered "usable" – a bar that is already set low. Scrappy uninformative pages will remain scrappy and uninformative, not worth reading. :::::: ::::::“Overhang” is the term I use for regional pages that remain outline even though their constituent pages are of good standard. My guess is that these are few, do we have any numbers about that? If (as seems likely) the outline regions mostly have outline cities, parks etc then it’s sensible to put the effort into the latter. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 17:50, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::Probably should've started the discussion there, but I think for such a major high-profile change I'd prefer the pub as the venue of discussion over [[Wikivoyage talk:Region article template]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:29, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :I wonder how often we have a regional article without usable articles below it. I have occasionally added attractions to a regional article because there was no 'city' article to stick it in. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 20:52, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::Personally I think that's fine tbh – though I suppose in those cases that's where the question of whether a rural area article is more favorable arises. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:38, 23 April 2026 (UTC) Agree with whoever said make it optional. I agree that most of the time they would be unnecessary but there are enough corner cases. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 21:06, 23 April 2026 (UTC) I agree that region articles should have See and Do, and we should work towards filling those in, rather than removing them. Eat and Drink are useful, and exist in some region articles, but it does seem unlikely that we will be able to expand those any time soon. They should be optional, and removed if empty. I don't think Sleep should be in region articles at all. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:19, 23 April 2026 (UTC) : Although [[Hebrides|here]] is an example of a useful Sleep section in a region article. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:33, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::Regions should have See and Do, and can usefully have Buy, Eat, Drink or Sleep. Unfortunately you usually need to know a region well to provide complete content in any of these sections. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:03, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :::Nicely put, AlasdairW. A really good Region SHOULD have Buy, Eat, Drink and Sleep sections that provide a high-level overview (similar to the Hberides article that Ground Zero cited. I agree that listings generally don't belong in Region articles (unless there isn't an appropriate city article for it). I'm okay with having all those sections be optional for regions, but feel strongly that they should be REQUIRED for a region article to become Guide or Star. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 17:52, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::::This has prompted me to expedite the outline regions on my "to do" list, and for starters [[Hebrides]] (cited above, and already usable) was missing Eat and Drink. Quickly sorted. Three more can be done soon, improving the metrics by just under 0.1%. If we all put our shoulder to the wheel this problem will be swiftly fettled. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 10:28, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :::::'''Actual requirements''': The cited [[Wikivoyage:region article template|region article template]] (at least since before [[Special:Permalink/4786171|10 Dec]]) says about these four sections (the last sentence of each): "If there isn't anything to say about the region's [whatever] that isn't already covered by the descriptions in the Regions/Cities/Other destinations sections, or in the Understand section, then this section can be omitted." :::::For usable, "the most prominent attractions [must be] identified with directions"; for guide, there must be "information on multiple attractions and things to do". The [[[[Special:Permalink/994173|region article status]] page doesn't require the sections under discussion to exist, for any status. :::::I indeed think one needs to say something about the most prominent attractions of a region before the page can be seen as usable. Also having Eat, Drink, See and Do sections in the template is reasonable, as that should make the editor think about what usable could be said about cuisine, nightlife and attractions. For some regions, what needs to be said is already in the city listings or in Understand, making the separate sections redundant. That's fine. :::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 14:11, 25 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::So to clean up region articles for regions you know: think whether there is something region-specific to say about the four subjects, check whether it is already said in other sections and either put content in the empty sections or remove them. If you are not sure about some section for some region, just leave those section headers for somebody else to make the decision. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 14:16, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :So 3 weeks later...I take it that there's general support for making eat/drink optional, but keeping see and do. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:45, 18 May 2026 (UTC) ::Maybe we should allow usable region articles to refer the reader to a larger region (or the country/state) article for information on eat, drink and sleep. That leaves the section in place, so any region specifics are more easily added. So if [[Hebrides]] didn't have anything to say for sleep, it would say "See [[Scotland#Sleep]]". [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 12:00, 18 May 2026 (UTC) :::Have you checked the guideline I linked? Is there something in it you would like to change? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:24, 18 May 2026 (UTC) ::::In the Eat and Drink sections of [[Wikivoyage:Region article template]], replace "then this section can be omitted" with "provide a link to a this section in a a bigger region (which could be the country)". [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 19:31, 18 May 2026 (UTC) :::::Do we need sections that only have that link? Can't it just be included in context in Understand or even be regarded as implicit – the country's cuisine is usually described in the country article and in the absence of an eat section I assume readers would consult the country article without any pointer? In the case where nightlife is concentrated to one of the region's cities (not too uncommon), that can be said in the city's bullet as well as in Understand. :::::Of course, ''if'' we want that section, we can include such a sentence in Drink. But I think one-sentence sections are ugly, they look incomplete, and may attract tries at saying something, often resulting in pointless or redundant text, and perhaps listings that belong elsewhere. :::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:09, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::In cases like [[Greater Lyon]] and [[Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes]], the later of which has an extensive Eat section, it may of course be worthwhile to point out at which level of regions that description is to be found. If the region is indeed "capital of French gastronomy", then the section should probably not be omitted – there ought to be something to say. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:16, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::My thoughts are mostly with LPfi's – it should generally be implied with our region structure, not that I think many people often read the eat/drink ections in the first place. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:04, 19 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::I'm surprised you don't think they do. I would tend to think they would, as food is one of the most interesting things to many travellers and people generally. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:27, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::It ''should'' be the case, but generally I (and a few people I've talked to irl about) find most eat/drink sections to be far too lacking to actually bother reading when many better sources exist online. Even when it comes to listings, it's not all that often I actually consult Wikivoyage for places to eat or drink, and nowhere near the same level as I do for see/do. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:49, 19 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::::I'd distinguish between listings for specific eateries and descriptions of a local cuisine. I'm always interested in reading the latter, especially if it's well written and a good read. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:59, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::Hmm true, you have a point there. I do suppose that eat/drink sections of country articles (and also major region articles, like [[Quebec]]) tend to be a ''lot'' more useful than say the eat/drink sections of say [[South Central Iowa]] (which, in my opinion, can be safely removed). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:26, 20 May 2026 (UTC) :::I'd rather see something like "As with most of Scotland, self-catering cottages, camping, and bed-and-breakfast inns are available in the Hebrides" (customizing the text to whatever is most relevant). There could be a link on the opening phrase to [[Scotland#Sleep]]. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:26, 18 May 2026 (UTC) == Digital life in China == Hello from China. I wrote [https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/User:Brycehughes/Staying_connected_in_China this]. It is meant to be what I wish I had read before I went to China. I learned the hard way; I hope others don't have to (especially now that China is opening up re visa-free access). I am seeking some advice: 1) Is this appropriate for a standalone article? 2) If yes, then what template to use and also how to title it? 3) If no, then should I integrate it into China or just junk it? Basically I'd like your help in what to do with this. Any advice appreciated, thanks. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 15:25, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :I think your write-up is valuable and practical, and I think the topic is too big to fit in [[China#Connect]]. I like your current title or [[Internet access in China]], to match the [[Internet access|general article]]. [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 15:55, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::I agree with your assessment. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:09, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :::Me too. [[User:GrinningIodize|GrinningIodize]] ([[User talk:GrinningIodize|talk]]) 18:51, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :Yes, this article is valuable, especially as it has radically changed my attitude towards China as a whole. I was blocked at English Wikipedia back in 2021 for my blind hate towards China and Chinese, for which I have apologized repeatedly. And now, your article has sparked my curiosity towards that very country, its culture and people. It should be titled [[Internet access in China]], as suggested by Gerode above. Thank you for writing this and also changing my mind for good. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 16:47, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::Hey, glad I could change your mind. Not sure how this article did it but whatever works. I've traveled to a few countries at this point and one thing I always notice is everybody basically wants to just get the kids to school on time, etc. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) :::Sing it, brother. Getting the kids a good education, and taking care of the aging parents is universal. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 17:20, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::::In the west, taking care of aging parents is less? In India they die in your house. Dunno. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:35, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :::::I remember having tea with a guy in Isfahan. After we talked politics for a while, we ended up talking eldercare. He wanted to move to Tehran for career reasons. He was younger than me, but I have been through it in Toronto. The issues were similar. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:26, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::I'd say still way more socially accepted in the west to send your aging parents to a nursing home than it is outside the west. As someone who's culturally from a non-western background, sadly not uncommon to witness drama with extended family when it comes to these sorts of matters. :( //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:49, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :Sounds like I can keep the title, link at the [[China]] article. Technical stuff e.g. what templates to add can be done by more savvy people later. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:37, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::Also it is a silly banner image but these things make me laugh. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:38, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::Done and done. Please feel free to add proper templates to [[Staying connected in China|the article]] anyone so it's well fitted in the tree. Thanks, [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:44, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::[[Staying connected in China|Staying connected in China]]. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:58, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :Ooh this is a good topic – I've read about advice on this here and there on Reddit, but never a full comprehensive guide. Nice work on this! //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:44, 24 April 2026 (UTC) I wonder if we should cover bringing burner phones/devices in this page. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 06:24, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :Certainly could, although my target for the article was more the I-want-to-watch-YouTube crowd as opposed to the I-want-privacy crowd. Could have a section on privacy I suppose. (Somewhat ironically, I have a burner phone, but I bought it for entering the USA.) [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 07:48, 25 April 2026 (UTC) ::I think [[burner phones]] could be an entirely separate travel topic, since China isn't the only place where such advice would be applicable. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:08, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :::Many people need burner laptops, but perhaps that's different enough to be handled in [[Computers]]. I assume that what needs to be said (and can be kept up to date) can be said on a screenful or two, so wouldn't make that article too long. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 14:26, 25 April 2026 (UTC) It looks a useful article. If you know, it would be worth adding a note saying how much this applies to Hong Kong or Macau. The Great Firewall may be less active there, but it has been 7 years since I was last in Hong Kong. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 09:52, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :Same boat as you... I haven't been to Hong Kong since 2017. If anyone knows feel free to add. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 10:57, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :Well, the Great Firewall applies mainly to mainland China, and HK and Macau don't face such restrictions AFAIK. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 13:36, 25 April 2026 (UTC) ::Yes, I can back that up. I have friends in Shenzhen who often head over to Hong Kong because it's more convenient for accessing the open internet. [[User:ShuaiXuesheng|ShuaiXuesheng]] ([[User talk:ShuaiXuesheng|talk]]) 14:44, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :::The Great Firewall does not apply to Hong Kong. You can still freely use Wikipedia, Facebook, Whatsapp, Telegram and YouTube. Can't comment on Macau but I would imagine it's the same thing. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 16:25, 1 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I think the only risk with Hong Kong is that during political crises the CCP can lean on the HK government to restrict access. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 08:04, 2 May 2026 (UTC) == Request for comment (global AI policy) == <bdi lang="en" dir="ltr" class="mw-content-ltr">A [[:m:Requests for comment/Artificial intelligence policy|request for comment]] is currently being held to decide on a global AI policy. {{int:Feedback-thanks-title}}<br>[[User:MediaWiki message delivery|MediaWiki message delivery]] ([[User talk:MediaWiki message delivery|talk]]) 00:58, 26 April 2026 (UTC)</bdi> <!-- Message sent by User:Codename Noreste@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=30424282 --> :Finally! //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:20, 26 April 2026 (UTC) ::I don't think this proposal is the best the movement can do. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 03:52, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :::I agree and stated as much in comments at the link. Why don't we adopt a local policy that _any_ use of AI, very much including for "basic copy editing" and machine translation, must be disclosed? I'd be willing to tolerate spellcheck and grammar check if those are considered AI, but nothing else should be accepted without disclosure (or at all, if I had my druthers). We don't want people's writing style to be chucked in favor of bots. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 08:50, 26 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Hence why I supported the opt-out policy. It might not be bad on this wiki where there is an active community to clean up after AI use, but I'm in the midst of a weeks-long effort of cleaning up after someone who mass-spammed AI translations of Interlingua (see [[m:Steward_requests/Miscellaneous/2026-03#h-Mass_machine_translations/AI-generated_pages-Manual_requests-20260317184400|this]]), which I've been slacking on a bit, but the whole mass translations are absolutely disruptive and something I'd never want to see again. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:25, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :Great! We now have a policy about AI, globally. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 08:12, 26 April 2026 (UTC) ::No, we don't. And even if they pass, we need to write our own. What bothers me about "disclosure" is that it adds deadweight to affected edits, especially when the edit itself is minor. Can a label be used for the purpose? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 11:51, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] Sure, a label can be used for the purpose. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 23:29, 27 April 2026 (UTC) :I oppose AI's use on the travel guide. [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 15:32, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :: Would you allow photos, where some obstruction has been removed by an AI tool? What about finding sources when researching some off destination? May I use AI to construct a table or diagram? May my dyslectic friend have an AI point out possible spelling errors? May one use a voice-to-text AI if typing is difficult because of that accident? :: As AI is getting common, restrictions on its use will interfere with established workflows of some, soon many, contributors. Thus we need to identify the things we absolutely don't want done with AI or assisted by AI, and those where AI assistance isn't a problem. :: –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 12:58, 27 April 2026 (UTC) :::I oppose all of AI's use as far as LLMs are concerned, but for researching off wiki you can't control that, and it is helpful. AI shouldn't be used to construct a table or diagram. A dyslexic person may use it to use this voice to text typing, :::I think they should make the wording more specific and inclusive for this new regulation. :::Thanks, [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 18:18, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :::I would be fine on all of them, as long as these are legitimate uses. But for GenAI, it should not replace jobs from real workers. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 06:16, 30 April 2026 (UTC) == Changes to autoconfirmed requirements from next week == For those not following the tech news, [[:phab:T418484]] will be a pretty important update for how autoconfirmed is configured on all wikis. Namely, to quote the tech news: {{blockquote|There is a new change in how new users are autoconfirmed that will improve anti-vandalism protection. Currently, users who have had an account for a few days and made a few edits are automatically added to the Autoconfirmed users group. This configuration tends to be exploited by some vandals, who create accounts and start to use them only after some time. To mitigate this, the configuration will be updated next week so that – for the purpose of becoming autoconfirmed – the account age will be counted from their first edit, instead of registration date. The numeric value of the age threshold will remain the same. This change will be deployed only to wikis which require at least one edit as part of the autoconfirmation conditions.}} I've made the change to [[Wikivoyage:Autoconfirmed users]] accordingly, but I do think this is a change that should be more widely announced to the community. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:12, 27 April 2026 (UTC) :Seems like a good change. Thanks for amending the page, but I think the people for whom the knowledge is essential are quite few over here, and I assume most of them check the pub (or the technical news), so I wouldn't be worried about somebody missing it. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:49, 28 April 2026 (UTC) ::I trust that this works. A few years ago I had trouble with a vandal who had been blocked. His modus perandi was to create a new account, make a dozen or so reasonable edits (not difficult to do - a typo here, a grammatical correction there) and then he started harrassing me. [[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 16:09, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :::I think this will have little effect on long-term abusers. If the current pattern is "create account, wait 4 days, make a dozen reasonable, non-block-worthy edits, and then start harassing", then the only think that changes is the order of the elements: "create account, make a dozen reasonable, non-block-worthy edits, wait 4 days, and then start harassing". [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 02:40, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::::It still does prevent getting autoconfirmed while doing a series of block-worthy edits, with no preceding good or neutral ones. I assume some abusers don't move over to the new strategy. (And this also has no effect one those doing just one edit per account – if it helps against some abusers, then it is good.) The downside is that somebody who registered an account for reading and now does a few edits doesn't immediately become autoconfirmed. I don't think they expect that, so it is no big deal. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:29, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::::At present there are very few LTAs that follow this pattern – and I'd say because most LTAs are not bright enough to have the capability of making good edits in the first place. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:38, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :Good change as well, I support this change. Vandalism is rife. [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 18:21, 28 April 2026 (UTC) == Scriptbooks == We have various foreign-language phrasebooks covered at [[phrasebooks]]. However, there's only one article that isn't about language but about a writing system, and that is [[Learning Devanagari]], a "scriptbook". The very existence of such a "scriptbook" means there could be scriptbooks on Cyrillic or Perso-Arabic. However, the [[Cyrillic]] articles are deleted and salted for being "out of scope". So, should scriptbooks exist on Wikivoyage at all, or be migrated elsewhere (like Wikibooks or Wikiversity)? '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:13, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :As far as I know, travellers are more likely to talk to locals than reading scripts, especially as written languages can be translated with the translation services on your phone. Probably that's why we have so many phrasebooks and only one "scriptbook". Of course, there are obscure writing systems that translation services can't parse, and phrasebooks of respective languages are enough to cover such cases (since only one or few languages would use such obscure scripts). '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:17, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :: There are downsides to pointing your smartphone at every sign you want to read. For Cyrillic, learning the letters isn't too hard, so anybody travelling to Russia (or Ukraine) should try. On the other hand, the alphabets could easily be explained in the phrasebooks, with remarks on pronunciation in context, so I don't think a scriptbook is warranted – but neither do I think it should be salted. :: Devanagari is more complex, and the ligature are not very intuitive for most English speakers. I think that included the content of that article into half a dozen individual phrasebooks wouldn't be a good alternative. How to handle the writing system is a judgement call and I wouldn't rule out other scriptbooks, although I cannot remind me any writing system for which I would recommend that solution. :: –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:43, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :I agree that while phrasebooks are useful for travelers, scriptbooks might be valuable, particularly for complex writing systems. They could be a good resource, especially for those not easily translated by phone apps. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 15:20, 30 April 2026 (UTC) == Error on my own page == Got this message on an edit I tried to make on MY OWN userpage: ''Unfortunately, this action has been automatically identified as harmful, and therefore disallowed.'' ''If you believe your action was constructive, please leave a message on the [[Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub|travellers' pub]]. In your message, state what you were trying to do and the title of the page you were trying to edit.'' ''A brief description of the abuse rule which your action matched is: <u>Unregistered or New user blanking someone else's user or user talk page</u>'' Here is my abuse log for confirmation<br>[https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:AbuseLog&wpSearchUser=ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor+%28alt%29 https://fr.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:AbuseLog&wpSearchUser=ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor+%28alt%29] What? It's my page! Wdym? [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 12:57, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :{{ping|SHB2000}} created an anti-spam filter (#66) that seems to be catching you. Maybe they can help. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:06, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::Okay. Thanks. [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 13:07, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::66 is flag-only (mainly so it can get picked up by [[m:SWViewer|SWViewer]]), seems to be 35 that's catching your edits – the main issue here seems to be that your account isn't autoconfirmed. I've given you confirmed perms since your other account is already autoconfirmed which should hopefully stop the filter from disallowing your edits. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:14, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :::Thank you! [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 13:18, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::::It was filter 35 that was the culprit. It seems the error was my fault: I used a construction that didn't work as expected. I am sorry. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 16:48, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :::::It is all good! [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 02:13, 30 April 2026 (UTC) == FTT icon no longer displaying == Does anyone else see this same issue of no FTT icon appearing? Take a look at the pagebanner on [[common scams]] or [[Hamad International Airport]] for what I mean. The links work, but the icon doesn't. (cc {{ping|Andyrom75|Jdlrobson}}) //02:00, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :I do not see an icon. —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 02:48, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :There is no icon for me. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 15:19, 30 April 2026 (UTC) ::The link to the image seems to have been broken somehow. The file still exists ([[c:File:Writing Circle.svg]]) (I also uploaded a [[c:File:Writing Circle white.svg|white version]] for use in {{tl|Banner}} which for consistency might be better?). The fix here should be to update the link in [[MediaWiki:Common.css]] on line 128. I don't have those permissions (interface admin) any more. Instead, @[[User:Andree.sk|Andree]], [[User:Andyrom75|Andy]], [[User:Atsirlin|Atsirlin]] and [[User:Jdlrobson|JDL]] should be able to make the necessary edit. <span style="font-family:atkinson hyperlegible">― '''[[User:Wauteurz|Wauteurz]]''' <small>([[User talk:Wauteurz|talk]])</small></span> 19:39, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :::hopefully fixed, we'll see when MW/ResourceLoader reloads the caches.. -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 20:14, 30 April 2026 (UTC) ::::I see the FTT icon in the upper right of the banner for [[Common scams]], so apparently that fixed it. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 21:17, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :::Yep that did the fix – cheers, Wauteurz and Andree. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:34, 1 May 2026 (UTC) == My Culture is not a Costume video == If you are reading this, I suggest you to watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6Y5cARFJw8 Summary: Cultural appropriation should never be a thing across America, including all of these holidays, and in daily life. The Halloween costumes that co-opt their cultures, are described as insensitive, dehumanizing, and unrepresentative of the culture, asked by six women. These women had a distaste of what their culture is used as Halloween costumes, and the reasons they presented, as erasing their culture, stereotypical, and a ignorance of the rich history of ethnic minorities. The most important of all, is that traditional attire, is considered to be sacred in different cultures, outside Western countries and nations. Reminder: Please see the [[Halloween]] article, and the [[respect]] too. This quotation would be: {{q|Another consideration is that some costumes may grossly misrepresent diverse cultures or cause offence and upset to others. There has also been considerable debate about cultural appropriation. Purported 'Arab', 'Mexican', 'Indian', 'Geisha', or 'Asylum Patient' costume choices have all come under scrutiny. Costumes that mimic police or military style clothing (including those of historical regimes), may also cause offence or be mistaken for genuine.|Buy: Costumes}} Thank you for reading this. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-26450-12|&#126;2026-26450-12]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-26450-12|talk]]) 19:06, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :This is a travel guide. We are not going to tell people what costumes to wear on this site. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:31, 30 April 2026 (UTC) ::I think there's a bit of "know your audience" here. Around the time this old YouTube video was created, the Twitterverse blew up over a white American teen wearing a Chinese dress to a formal party. However, Chinese people in China thought it was acceptable.[https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/02/world/asia/chinese-prom-dress.html][https://www.scmp.com/comment/insight-opinion/article/2144595/go-ahead-appropriate-my-culture] [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 23:58, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :::I wear batik shirts all summer, and if anyone wanted to object to it (no-one has), I'd insist that they have a conversation with me in Malay. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 00:29, 1 May 2026 (UTC) :This has to be a troll post. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 09:34, 2 May 2026 (UTC) ::If you're doing it respectfully and acknowledge its origins, I don't see what's wrong with someone else's ethnic costume. When Katy Perry wore a kimono in one of her music videos, some Japanese-Americans were outraged, but people actually from Japan were perplexed as to why it was even controversial at all. And I've worn a traditional Indian shirt to a Deepavali party, and nobody found it offensive. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 07:26, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :::Key to wearing costumes of other cultures is doing it respectfully, although the risk of committing faux pas is still there. Wearing them for Halloween is probably more controversial than wearing them in proper context, such as the Deepavali. Having Finns dressed as Sámi (unknowingly combining details in conflicting ways) performing "genuine" Sámi rituals for tourists is indeed seen as cultural appropriation. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:55, 11 May 2026 (UTC) == Spirit Airlines gone bust == It seems [https://www.nbcnews.com/business/travel/spirit-airlines-shutdown-what-to-know-rcna343222 Spirit has gone bust] last night. Currently about [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?limit=500&fulltext=1&search=Spirit+Airlines&title=Special:Search&profile=default&ns0=1 320ish mentions] of the airline, so will be a massive undertaking to fix this, but any help would be appreciated. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:59, 3 May 2026 (UTC) :Some articles of [[India]] still mention Jet Airlines and GoAir, both of which have gone bust long ago. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:47, 3 May 2026 (UTC) ::Would be a worthwhile project to remove mentions of those too. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:28, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :I suppose we'll have to search for all mentions of Spirit Airlines in other articles. Or maybe hold off to see who buys their assets. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 16:01, 3 May 2026 (UTC) ::They've already had two rounds of bankruptcy. I don't think that a revival is at all likely. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 00:31, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] Was more thinking a merger than a revival, that another airline would buy some of the planes and take over at least a portion of their routes. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 16:45, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I expect all the remaining assets (everything from whole airplanes to office chairs to lease contracts on airport gates) to get sold off as part of the bankruptcy proceedings. I don't expect other airlines to really "take over their routes", but instead for some of them to increase the number of flights on routes that they were already serving, and a few to add a few new routes. Adding a new route can't be done overnight, so any airline that announces a new destination in the coming weeks has already been planning this for a while. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:47, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :Do you guys [https://letsbuyspiritair.com/ want to buy it]? —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 00:48, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::Shouldn't have vibecoded those servers... [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 12:58, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::Reminds me of [[:w:Global Airlines|Global Airlines]]. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 13:17, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::It looks like they're up to US $88 million in "unverified" pledges. That's 17% of the bailout that Spirit had been seeking a week ago, and that various news sources said might keep the airline operational for as little as six months. So... enough to keep the airline going this month, assuming that all the pledges are real (and they never are, though in some fundraising areas, you might get as high as 90%)? ::And then it dies again, of course. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:21, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::To keep it running, they need a sound business model and good management. They claim that the bankruptsy was due to the evilness of Wall Street (or so I interpret their message). They could be right, but it seems that running an airline company isn't easy these days, be it a legacy or budget one. If the business model really did work, then it is up to having the money and good management, and to not get vulnerable to Wall Street evilness (better not take loans from them). It would be really nice to hear them succeed, but I won't bet my mite on that. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:14, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I've read that they haven't been profitable since the pandemic in 2020. That suggests that they don't have a sound business model. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:49, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::::I mean LCCs around the world outside of Europe have been struggling since the pandemic, but Spirit was on a whole different level. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:25, 5 May 2026 (UTC) : What can we do by way of practical advice for travellers? There have been a fair number of stories about stranded passengers, stuck paying for a different flight, often at a higher price because one-way is usually more expensive than half of a return ticket & immediate flights more expensive than booking ahead. [https://people.com/spirit-airlines-passengers-recall-being-stranded-at-airports-after-airline-s-closure-11965179 Spirit passengers stranded], [https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/23/travel/thomas-cook-airline-collapse.html Thomas Cook] a few years ago involving 600,000 victims by some estimates, [https://www.islands.com/1996300/airlines-bankrupt-never-recovered/ 10 Airlines That Went Bankrupt And Never Recovered], ... : There are sites with advice about this, [https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/service-cessations-bankruptcy US DOT], [https://www.pbs.org/newshour/economy/after-spirit-airlines-shutdown-how-passengers-can-get-home-and-get-refunds PBS], [https://www.iata.org/contentassets/2e46aace261040b9a47fb7b9da18efc9/airline-bankruptcy-position-paper.pdf IATA] & several travel guides. It seem to boil down to seeking a refund from your credit card company & looking for "rescue fares" where other airlines offer a discount. : Are there good ways to reduce this risk? Always pay with a credit card? Does [[travel insurance]] cover this? Should you fly only on major airlines? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 17:00, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::I think Finland (the EU?) offers some protection if you book in the right way, after many passengers got stranded some years ago (COVID-19? 2008?). I think companies in the travel business are required to put money in a fund that covers their liabilities, so at least passengers should get their money back (I could be awfully wrong about the details). If you book through a travel bureau, then they take the responsibility (they probably have insurance). Then, of course, you shouldn't book via a "convenience flag" company. I believe that suitable travel insurance also covers this, but read the fine print. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:27, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com/travel/planning/what-to-do-if-tour-company-airline-goes-bankrupt.htm indicates that travel insurance with what seems to be called "insolvency cover" (not very common) can help. US credit card issuers must refund the price of cancelled flights, but that doesn't seem to be true elsewhere. :::I don't think that "only fly on major airlines" is reasonable. Airline bankruptcies are pretty uncommon in wealthier worlds. However, "don't fly on one that's already in bankruptcy proceedings" might be a reasonable rule. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:56, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::::In the UK, and I think most of Europe, you have better consumer protection if you book a "package" of flight and hotel for a single price from a travel agent (which can be a part of the airline). If the airline goes bust when you are away, the travel agent has to arrange to get you home (without further charge), and the scheme is backed with a bond held by the CAA. See [[:W:Air Travel Organisers' Licensing]]. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 20:45, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::::Yes. EU regulations require that businesses that sell packages place a deposit that should cover expenses for bankrupt partners (they estimate the costs themselves, so a bankrupt business may not be able to cover everything). In addition to returning money paid to them for unavailable services, they have to arrange and pay your journey back, if the return was part of the package. This applies only if you bought a package. If you reserve flight and accommodation through them separately, or book things yourself with their assistance (so that you get agreements with the individual businesses), then their liabilities are very limited – but they should clearly inform you that this isn't a package deal. :::::If you bought tickets yourself, you have to either ask the company itself (which may have priority liabilities worth more than its assets) or your credit company, which only need to pay back what you paid, no additional expenses. You choose which of them to ask for compensation. :::::(I did not read the directive, but a bunch of official advice.) :::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:03, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :btw a bit late, but kudos to [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] and [[User:Anyone150|Anyone150]] for doing the bulk of the removals. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:03, 9 May 2026 (UTC) == Is there an unannounced Montenegro editing event? == In the last couple of days, we've seen a number of new articles about attractions in Montenegro, few if any of them destinations by Wikivoyage definitions laid out on the [[WV:What is an article]] page, and all of them in a custom, non-Wikivoyage structure with personal comments. Are these all by one person who's using multiple accounts, or is this some kind of unannounced event? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:56, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :Please respond, @[[User:Andjela555|Andjela555]], @[[User:Zinuo67|Zinuo67]], @[[User:~2026-25860-58|~2026-25860-58]], @[[User:~2026-27229-97|~2026-27229-97]], @[[User:~2026-27107-15|~2026-27107-15]], @[[User:Stasya Kostova|Stasya Kostova]], @[[User:~2026-26916-20|~2026-26916-20]]. You are well-intentioned, and most of the titles you are adding articles for deserve to be listed on this site, in the article for the nearest town, but because you do not know about [[Wikivoyage:What is an article]] and have no idea what Wikivoyage style (for example, [[Wikivoyage:Article templates]], [[Wikivoyage:Pronouns]] and [[Wikivoyage:Goals]]) is, you are creating a mess, and if there is a planning or discussion page somewhere, one of us can post some basic Wikivoyage style and policy information to it to try to stop the mess from spreading. Please tell us who organized this editing event and who instructed you about what to add to Wikivoyage and how. It's important for us to know. Thanks! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 14:21, 5 May 2026 (UTC) ::{{re|Ikan Kekek}} Interestingly, from a CU check, it seems: ::* {{checkuser|Zinuo67}} ::* {{checkuser|Veda-Meda2015}} ::* {{checkuser|Ece Mira 67777}} ::* {{checkuser|Stasya Kostova}} ::* {{checkuser|Miona Colanovic}} ::are all a 100% match (no account blocks have been made, however). At least technically, there is no indication of this coming from a shared address either. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:23, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::Weird. Thanks for checking. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:51, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::: {{u|Stasya Kostova}} created [[Skočidjevojka Bay]] which needs to be cleaned up (couldn't find the correct template to tag for cleanup). [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 04:18, 8 May 2026 (UTC) :::::There is no such template because we don't have enough editors to say "you do it!" But if I lack time or need help, I usually post a notice on an article's talk page, where to be fair it's often ignored, and I may forget about it for some time, too. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:46, 8 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::In the case of [[Skočidjevojka Bay]], it should probably just be tagged with {{tl|stub}}. The template automatically populates it into a category if it's still like that after 7 days. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:08, 8 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::I have tagged it to merge into [[Petrovac]], as I don't think there is enough there for an article. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 10:24, 8 May 2026 (UTC) ==Policy for the phrase "adult entertainment"== An earlier version of the [[Southern California]] article used the phrase "adult entertainment" (see [[Talk:Southern California]] for discussion). As "adult entertainment" is a euphemism for pornography (but not always understood as such by non-native readers), we should have a policy which complies with [[Wikivoyage:Sex tourism policy]] and [[Wikivoyage:The traveller comes first]]. I made a draft in [[Wikivoyage:Words to avoid]]. Please contribute with your opinions. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 10:48, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :I don't think policy/guideline pages are places for drafts. If you had meant your new text to be a draft, you should have put it in the talk page for the policy/guideline page. It seemed non-controversial to me, and as I mentioned elsewhere, I support it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:53, 6 May 2026 (UTC) ::I agree with Ikan here. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:01, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::I also agree with Ikan on this one. [[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 21:27, 6 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I am happy with the addition. To me "Adult movies" could be those which have been given an "18 certificate", and violence could be the main reason for the rating. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:12, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::::I'm all for avoiding any promotion of sex tourism, but I'm not sure a knee-jerk reaction to automatically make a phrase verboten is at all useful. I often travel with my family and I would like to know where the shady hotels are so I can avoid them. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 01:21, 7 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::Just for transparency, this is what Yvwv added: ::::::{{blockquote|adult entertainment: Can be understood as a euphemism for pornography, striptease, sex toy stores, and other sexually themed attractions. If such attractions comply with the [[Wikivoyage:Sex tourism policy]] they can be described without euphemism; a strip club can be called a strip club. Use expressions with "adults" in an unambigous way.}} :::::://<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:34, 7 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::'''Oppose''' the addition of "adult entertainment" to the words to avoid list. IMHO, we need to cut that list down to just those that are genuinely useful to avoid. Well over half have perfectly legitimate uses on a travel wiki. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 01:46, 7 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::: To sort out misunderstanding, see [[Wikivoyage talk:Words to avoid]] for discussion. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 08:14, 7 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::I think that the confusing situations should be mentioned. Here's one short way to do that: :::::::* Use expressions with "adults" in an unambiguous way (e.g., "Adults only (age 18+)"). :::::::[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:13, 7 May 2026 (UTC) == Main Page revamps, part 2 == As mentioned about a month and a bit ago, I'm in the midst of trying to modernise the look of this site. The second stage of those revamps is now at [[User:SHB2000/revamped main]], which revamps the sister projects section. The style replicates the redesign agreed upon with part 1 of the revamps when we got rid of the blue box. Any thoughts and feedback welcome. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:58, 10 May 2026 (UTC) :It looks virtually identical to me, so I think it's certainly fine. The sister projects footer is the only real difference and is a little more clean and clear, so I {{support}}. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 17:40, 10 May 2026 (UTC) : {{support}} Looks fine to me. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 14:13, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :'''Wikifunctions''' is listed twice with somewhat different descriptions. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:16, 11 May 2026 (UTC) ::Done, good catch. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:34, 11 May 2026 (UTC) : I notice that the links to other language versions are down at the end. I wonder if the people who need them most will find them there. Should they be more prominent? Perhaps in the top box? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 03:38, 12 May 2026 (UTC) ::Rather confusingly, we also don't display the language versions on mobile at all – is there any design-related reason behind this? (if not, then that will be part 3 of revamps) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:45, 12 May 2026 (UTC) :::On mobile Minerva I am seeing various issues. The image in the discover section should push the text below and there is lots of blank whitespace. The map at the top is floating away from every thing else. :::Since most of our readership is on mobile I think it is important to address these. Please be sure to test it on a real phone and ensure you are viewing the default Minerva skin. [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 02:32, 13 May 2026 (UTC) ::::That seems to be an issue with the existing Main Page too. My reforms only change the Sister Projects section, which seems to work perfectly fine for me. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:47, 13 May 2026 (UTC) LGTM, thanks for doing this. Possibly a nitpick, but could the bottom row of the sister projects box be made symmetrical? --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 05:46, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :TT, this is not strictly possible without doing a lot to change the layout, since what will be symmetrical depends on your browser, monitor size, etc. On my computer, there are two rows of seven icons, which is balanced down the middle and looks quite clean. If I resize my browser window, it flows to four rows of four and one row of two, which is not symmetrical. I think the more meaningful discussion is about which projects to include. I personally would like to see [[:outreach:]] added, but I don't think it's critical. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 07:33, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::The main reason it wasn't included is because I'd literally forgotten :P. btw if you do see any missing projects, please do add them to [[User:SHB2000/WikivoyageSister]] since I won't be on my computer for the next few days. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:59, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::Done, template now updated. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:12, 31 May 2026 (UTC) == Wikidata, adding co-ordinates == [https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Wikidata:Events/Coordinate_Me_2026 COORDI­NATE ME], a wikidata contest for adding geolocation data in 26 chosen countries. Since we use that data & may have data in listings that could be on WD, perhaps some people here could help. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 04:12, 12 May 2026 (UTC) :This contest is wrought with problems, like tracking inaccuracies and errors, unresponsive organizer and delayed prize awards. Take a look at the contest's talk page in previous years to see all the issues it had. I have [https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Grants_talk:Programs/Wikimedia_Community_Fund/General_Support_Fund/WMAT_Multi-Year-Plan_Grant_2025-2027&oldid=27559767 spoken against] funding this year's contest due to fiscal and logistical mismanagement. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 14:52, 12 May 2026 (UTC) :Out of ~300000 listings we have around 4000 are like that - that we have WD for them, but the WD doesn't have coords... Now the question is, if we want to blindly export that, or what..... :) -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 20:56, 12 May 2026 (UTC) ::We also have many cities that have listings but the listings (with or without Wikidata) don't have coords. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 22:12, 15 May 2026 (UTC) == Franks Gatukök Göteborg Central == There is a hamburger and hot dog stand called Franks Gatukök in central Gothenburg (Göteborg in Swedish), right in front of the Gothernburg Central Station. I can personally verify this - I visited it less than a month ago. It also shows up at Google Maps. However, it doesn't appear to have any sort of website. Googling for "Franks Gatukök" gives a link to the site https://www.franksgatukok.se/ which lists several locations in Sweden, none of which is anywhere near Gothenburg Central Station. Their Facebook page doesn't list it either. Does anyone know if there is some sort of website for this location? If there is none, can it be listed on the Gothenburg article anyway? [[User:JIP|JIP]] ([[User talk:JIP|talk]]) 18:24, 15 May 2026 (UTC) :Sure it can be listed! Just don't include a website if there isn't any. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:22, 15 May 2026 (UTC) == A possible editorial action against WMF for laying off Union staff == You should be aware that [[meta:Talk:Community_Wishlist#May_20_update|there's currently a major upheaval]] over the alleged layoff of Community Tech staff by WMF. They're also [[en:Wikipedia:WP:Village_pump_(WMF)#Petition:_Editors_willing_to_join_in_collective_labor_action|discussing imitating a editorial strike in solidarity]] on Wikipedia because the staff that were laid off are members of the [[Meta:Wiki_Workers_United|Wiki Workers United]] union, which was formed just last week and in the process of organization. You might want to get to know them. So far, both have over 50 and 160 signatures, and both will be growing over the coming days. It's getting very significant, and it could impact this wiki, too. After that, if you agree to join in solidarity (and at the moment, pretty much a significant portion of Wikipedians are already in it), '''inform the WWU and [https://cwa-union.org/about/contact-us the CWA].''' Tell them ''everything they need to know going back years'' - and include all known heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis. After ''that''... beats me because of my lack of first-hand experience with labor unions and the like, but as [[:Wikipedia:Jeff the Land Shark|a certain little shark]] might say: {{tq|Murr. (Bite the hand that feeds. And I know where they hide the donuts.)}} [[User:2601AC47|2601AC47]] ([[User talk:2601AC47|talk]]) 19:27, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :@[[User:Asretired|Asretired]]; @[[User:Doc James|Doc James]]; @[[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]]; @[[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]]; @[[User:Mx. Granger|Mx. Granger]]; @[[User:OhanaUnited|OhanaUnited]]; @[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]]; @[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]]; anyone else? [[User:2601AC47|2601AC47]] ([[User talk:2601AC47|talk]]) 19:42, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :Thanks for posting here. But I think we should keep solidarity with a union separate from any grievances any of us might have about supposedly heavy-handed actions by the WMF involving the operation of wikis. My only grievance regarding the treatment of Wikivoyage that I can think of is that it can get lost in the shuffle. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:45, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :Thanks for posting here – for anyone reading, I'd absolutely urge you all to sign yourself in solidarity with WMF staff by adding your name at [[m:Wiki Workers United#Solidarity]] (I'd already done so before the ping). What happened yesterday absolutely reeked of corporatism and union-busting. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:37, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :I am not presently a member of the en.wp community and I would not seek to have anyone edit by proxy there for me or anything like that, but I want to register somewhere that I stand in solidarity with organized labor. There should probably be a [[phab:]] ticket to reform the entire Wikimedia Foundation into a worker-owned co-operative non-profit. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 02:46, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::I find this sort of discussion frustrating, because so few people seem to know what they're talking about. For example, Justin, forgive me for picking on you, but the WMF can't be reformed into "a worker-owned co-operative non-profit", because public charities in the US can't technically be "owned" by anyone. I suggest that anyone who wants to support labor rights would do well to learn more about the subject, and then talk to their own elected politicians about making it ''structurally'' feasible to have a labor union that crosses national borders – not merely a federation of locals that coordinate with each other (which is what "international" labor unions are), but an actual single organization, operating under the same rules, so you don't get the lone employee in this country having a "union" of me, myself, and I or the near-impossibility of writing a contract that is the same for everyone. It's bad enough that US states have different rules (e.g., layoffs above a certain size in California require 60 calendar days' [fully paid] advance notice); it's almost impossible to reconcile different national laws. ::Then you have the problem of people having different cultural conceptions of what a union is supposed to do for you. Is the labor union supposed to get you higher pay, or fairer conditions [which can mean lower pay and worse working conditions for previously privileged staff], or prevent staff from being fired, or organize social events, or help you get your next job, or something else? I know one municipal labor union whose negotiations are done by senior employees that "accidentally" preferred themselves for vacation scheduling, higher pay, and never having to work holidays and weekends for years. I know a couple of people at another organization who are pushing for a union; they seem to mostly be afraid that they will get fired someday but not understand why they were fired (I'm objectively doing well at the parts of my job that I think are important; why should my manager's opinion, or that fact that all my teammates keep quitting to get away from me, be relevant?). ::Apologies for the long post, but: please, don't assume that whatever your local laws or views of unions are would be relevant to any situation that extends outside of your home area. It's really enormously complicated. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:55, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::It's not picking on me, but you are wrong factually: you can have a [https://www.theselc.org/workplace_democracy_in_nonprofit_organizations worker self-directed non-profit 501(c)3 in the United States]. I am generally opposed to any hierarchy that models the way that capitalist businesses can unilaterally hire and fire. Maybe these workers still needed to be fired for some reason, but that should be decided by a democratic process. What <em>that</em> looks like will be different from organization to organization (e.g. a grievances board, administrative leave while under review, managers who are elected on a periodic basis and given the power to hire and fire by the working class, etc.), but when it comes to someone's basic livelihood and the fact that most of us live under wage slavery, then I don't want anyone getting fired without a democratic process behind it or at the very least some kind of extraordinary emergency reason. Additionally, for what it's worth, California (where the WMF are based) has laws specifically designed to help incorporate for-profit businesses as a co-op, so I would imagine that if someone wanted to create a worker self-directed non-profit, that would probably be the easiest place in the United States to do it. Lastly, I don't know why you seem to assume that I don't live in California. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 21:39, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::::"Self-directed" and "owned" are different things. ::::I make no assumptions about where you are; I give the California example because it's one that I know exists in my state and that I know does not exist everywhere. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:08, 23 May 2026 (UTC) :::::By "worker-owned co-op", I am distinguishing it from a member co-op like a grocery co-op or a credit union or a co-op apartment complex. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 23:04, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :On the question of what Wikivoyage needs: :The OP is already blocked on two wikis for trolling and disruptive editing. Their contributions here this year are to import drama that is not directly related to us. This has happened a few times before with other editors (e.g., complaints about software changes). :The Simple English Wikipedia has [https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Blocks_and_bans#Reciprocal a rule called "1STRIKE"] that applies to people who have already been blocked elsewhere (almost always the English Wikipedia), and then bring their bad behavior to Simple. Maybe we should consider adopting a similar rule. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:56, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::They haven't done anything blockable or even against any guidelines here, and to be clear, you're suggesting we should indefinitely block them for informing us about layoffs and anti-union actions? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 18:03, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::I'm suggesting that when someone says "Tell [an external organization] ''everything they need to know going back years'' - and include all known heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis", that this is more like "drama-mongering" than "informing". :::For example, the WMF deployed the current MediaWiki desktop skin several years ago, and some people are still mad about this "heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis". The Russian Wikipedia is still running a pop-up message saying that this was deployed without their consent. Do you think that's relevant to either layoffs or unionizing? I don't. Some of the "heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis" even involved the team that's being dissolved. There are probably still people at the German-language Wikipedia who think that Comm Tech was wrong to decline their urgent wish for the wrong piece of software to be re-installed, when the actual problem was created by their own local interface admins. There are definitely some who are still mad that the WMF stopped two of their admins from wheel-warring over the site config years ago. But none of these "heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis" have anything to do with unionizing. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 19:48, 24 May 2026 (UTC) ::::If you noticed, I addressed that above without saying they should be summarily blocked, and no-one has taken them up on that here, at any rate. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:36, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :::::2601AC47 was globally locked. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-31136-19|&#126;2026-31136-19]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-31136-19|talk]]) 22:53, 24 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::Why? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:02, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::[https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Meta:Requests_for_help_from_a_sysop_or_bureaucrat#c-Tamzin-20260523115300-Trolling/vandalism_at_highly_sensitive_WMF-related_discussion This was the conversation/request]. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 23:06, 24 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::Yeah, I see. They really trolled in that thread. Too bad; I'm indebted to them for informing me about these happenings. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 00:15, 25 May 2026 (UTC) ::We already have [[WV:ONESTRIKE]], by the way, but I really don't think bringing up the attention of the WMF's recent union busting actions is anywhere near disruptive to warrant an indefinitely. If it wasn't them, it almost certainly would've been brought up by someone else in the pub. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:09, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::I signed it in the signatures. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 00:37, 5 June 2026 (UTC) == May 2026 Wikimedia Café meetups regarding the Wikimedia Foundation Annual Plan == <div class="border-box" style="background-color: var(--background-color-warning-subtle, #f8eaba); max-width: 875px; padding: 5px; border: 1px solid black; margin: 5px; color: var(--clr-dark)"> <div class="box" style="float:left; padding-top: 15px; padding-right: 15px;">[[File:Wikimedia Café logo in plain SVG format.svg|75px|alt=The logo for the Wikimedia Café]]</div> Hello! There will be two '''[https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9 Wikimedia Café]''' discussion opportunities during the last weekend of May. Both sessions will focus on the [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Foundation_Annual_Plan/2026-2027 the 2026-2027 Wikimedia Foundation Annual Plan]. Participants may attend either or both sessions. #'''Saturday, 30 May 2026 at 15:00 UTC''' ([https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/1780153200 timestamp converter]), at a time friendly to the Americas, Africa, and Europe #'''Sunday, 31 May 2026 at 05:00 UTC''' ([https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/1780203600 timestamp converter]), at a time friendly to Asia and the Pacific Café participants are highly encouraged to read in advance [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Sohom_Datta/annual_plan_guide at least this summary of the plan]. Optionally, Café participants are encouraged to read portions of the plan that interest them and [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Talk:Wikimedia_Foundation_Annual_Plan/2026-2027 ask questions or provide feedback on the Annual Plan talk page]. Please see the Café page for more information, including [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9#May_2026_meetings_with_a_focus_on_Wikimedia_Foundation_Annual_Plan/2026-2027 tables of timestamp conversions for both sessions], [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9#Agenda._This_will_be_an_approximately_1_hour_Caf%C3%A9_session,_and_is_extendible_for_an_additional_30_minutes_if_needed. the agenda], and [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9#How_to_attend_the_session how to register]! <br /> [[File:Buntstifte Eberhard Faber crop 64h.jpg|860px|alt=cropped image of colored pencils]]</div> <span style="white-space:nowrap;">[[User:Pine|<span style="color:#01796f; text-shadow:#00BFFF 0 0 1.0em">↠Pine</span>]] [[User talk:Pine|<span style="color:DeepSkyBlue">(<b style="color:#FFDF00;text-shadow:#FFDF00 0 0 1.0em">✉</b>)</span>]]</span> 19:48, 21 May 2026 (UTC) == Faroe Islands update == Alright, I'm flying to [[Tórshavn]] next week. Anything on [[Faroe Islands]] that need a listing update, a picture or boots-on-the-ground verification? [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:31, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :Wow, what an opportunity. Our sister site has some [[:w:en:Category:Wikipedia requested photographs in the Faroe Islands|requested photographs]] if you are available to take any. (Note that I'm not a member of the community there and I'm not soliciting editing by proxy.) ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 15:59, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::Heh, I think it wouldn't be controversial to request to take a picture of a village or power plant. I've bookmarked several places and at least two locations are along the way to/from the airport so I have at least two chances to take pictures. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 18:06, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :I notice that [[Faroe Islands#Towns and villages]] says "the roofs are often turf-covered", next to a picture showing no turf-covered roofs. Perhaps you could easily determine whether "often" is still the right word? [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:02, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::Roofs are about 70-80% turf-covered when I see them in villages, but this number drops in bigger towns and only a few houses in the capital have turf roofs. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 23:12, 26 May 2026 (UTC) == Query regarding Kartographer extension == I am an editor at the Malayalam Wikivoyage project, which is currently hosted in [https://incubator.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wy/ml/%E0%B4%AA%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%B0%E0%B4%A7%E0%B4%BE%E0%B4%A8_%E0%B4%A4%E0%B4%BE%E0%B5%BE Incubator]. We recently encountered an issue where map markers were not appearing on maps. We raised a ticket in [https://phabricator.wikimedia.org/T395208 Phabricator], and came to know that the Kartographer extension is being removed. Does anyone here know of any alternative extension or approach that can be used to show markers on maps for denoting places? [[User:Adithyak1997|Adithyak1997]] ([[User talk:Adithyak1997|talk]]) 17:19, 23 May 2026 (UTC) :As far as I'm aware, Kartographer is not being removed as such, just not being added to any non-Wikivoyage WMF wikis. There is a [[phab:project/view/1692/|project board for Kartographer]] on [[phab:]] and you can [[mw:Help:Extension:Kartographergenerally learn more|mw:Help:Extension:Kartographergenerally learn more about]] the extension on [[mw:]]. I imagine that if Kartographer were to be removed, there would be a replacement deployed before that. {{Ping|Jdforrester (WMF)}} can you confirm that I'm correct (or if not, correct me)? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 18:12, 23 May 2026 (UTC) ::{{Ping|Koavf}} Thanks for sharing the links. I have already raised a ticket in Phabricator and it was based on that, I came to know that it will not be enabled on any new Wikivoyages and that it will be removed from other Wikivoyages too. {{Ping|Jdforrester (WMF)}} For your confirmation/comments on above reply please. [[User:Adithyak1997|Adithyak1997]] ([[User talk:Adithyak1997|talk]]) 15:59, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:Adithyak1997|Adithyak1997]]: Indeed, as I said there, " the mode should also have been removed from Wikivoyages". The problem is not with Kartographer but with the 'temporary' hack to allow Wikivoyages to cross-load content from WMCS, which was promised to be removed. :::@[[User:Koavf|Koavf]]: Do you know when the Wikivoyage community will finally do this work? [[User:Jdforrester (WMF)|Jdforrester (WMF)]] ([[User talk:Jdforrester (WMF)|talk]]) 12:57, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I don't have any special insight into that, unfortunately. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 14:38, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I think [[User:Andree.sk|Andree.sk]], [[User:OhanaUnited|OhanaUnited]], and [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] know more about maps than most of us. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:28, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :::::I'm not sure what is expected to be done by us, though? Is kartographer as a whole deprecated, or just some feature of it? Groups? I am completely out of loop here... -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 20:27, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :::::: I have no idea either. The only thing I did that is related to Kartographer is reporting a bug with missing pins on a map whenever some pins fall across both sides of the international date line. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 23:14, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::@[[User:Andree.sk|Andree.sk]]: Yes, Groups, according to https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Extension:Kartographer#Groups_for_Wikivoyage — but it doesn't explain what's the limitation specifically (in general, having groups seems fine?). [[User:Jdforrester (WMF)|Jdforrester (WMF)]] ([[User talk:Jdforrester (WMF)|talk]]) 17:09, 1 June 2026 (UTC) ::::If you don't mind me asking, where was it promised to be removed? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:07, 27 May 2026 (UTC) == [[Template:Other uses]] == Looking at [[Template:Other uses]], I see that it is supposed to generate an italicized hatnote such as the following: :''For other places with the same name, see [[Cleveland (disambiguation)]].'' But where I see {{tl|Other uses}} used on pages such as [[Burbank]] and [[Columbus]], the hatnote is ''not'' italicized: :For other places with the same name, see [[Burbank (disambiguation)]]. :For other places with the same name, see [[Columbus (disambiguation)]]. I checked the template {{tl|Other uses}} itself and I couldn't figure out why the italics are not showing up. Anybody have a suggestion? -- [[User:Metropolitan90|Metropolitan90]] ([[User talk:Metropolitan90|talk]]) 21:46, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :I [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Template%3AOther_uses&diff=5282293&oldid=5282292 removed the CSS classes] and it now renders italicized on pages. The weird thing is that these classes are not part of [[MediaWiki:Common.css]], so ''maybe'' adding non-defined classes results in unstyled text. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 22:56, 24 May 2026 (UTC) == A Pee section on articles == Hey everyone, I suggest adding a “pee” or “poop” section to articles (district, city, region, country), or having articles like “peeing in the (country)” or “peeing in (city)” would be great. Thanks…[[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 12:10, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :I think you're looking for a subsection under the "Respect" section where we are supposed to discuss the regulations regarding defecation and urination. Or public bathrooms under the "Cope" section. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 12:34, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :I think that a title like [[Toilets in the United Arab Emirate]] would be more appropriate and expected. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:53, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::Like if we have “sleep”, “eat” and “see” instead of “accommodation”, “F&B choices” and “attractions”, I think we need a “pee”, “poop”, “urinate”, “defecate”, “excrete”, “eliminate waste”, “dump”, “crap”, “drop a deuce”, “piss”, “whiz”, “micturate”, “/ʃɪt/” section. [[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 18:23, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::: no we don't, not with this type of vocabulary which is very unbecoming for a travel guide. You are welcome to create a WikiPee website, invite whomever you want to join, and write whatever suits your fancy. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 18:48, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::Even if we thought that a "Pee" section was a good label, it's unlikely to be the one that readers are looking for. That's what I meant when I said that "Toilets" might be more "expected". [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:20, 27 May 2026 (UTC) :::I don't think we need such a separate section on it, as [[WV:STICK]] already suggests putting toilets under "Cope". Even if we ever find a need for such a section, I would suggest "Toilet" as a verb. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 02:52, 27 May 2026 (UTC) ::::Okay, but maybe the region doesn’t have any toilets, or the locals pee in a hole, on the floor, or in a valley. Also, I think there are peeing customs or peeing places in the city or country. Is the water quality good? What does it feel like to pee (peeing experience)? That’s why we need a pee section. [[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 18:03, 27 May 2026 (UTC) :::::Yes, as was pointed out Cope is the place for information about toilets and it's indeed useful information for voyagers - especially in destinations where toilets are hard to find for one reason or another. Plainly writing out "Pee", "Shit" or the like as a heading would be rude, though. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:27, 27 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::If we include “pee” in “cope,” the “cope” section will have a lot of information that doesn’t have enough variety. ::::::That’s all— [[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 08:11, 28 May 2026 (UTC) == Vote now in the 2026 U4C election == <section begin="announcement-content" /> Eligible voters are asked to participate in the 2026 [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee|Universal Code of Conduct Coordinating Committee]] election. More information–including an eligibility check, voting process information, candidate information, and a link to the vote–are available on Meta at the [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee/Election/2026|2026 Election information page]]. The vote closes on 2 June 2026 at [https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/1780358400 00:00 UTC]. Please vote if your account is eligible. Results will be available by 14 June 2026. -- In cooperation with the U4C,<section end="announcement-content" /> [[m:User:Keegan (WMF)|Keegan (WMF)]] ([[m:User talk:Keegan (WMF)|talk]]) 17:15, 27 May 2026 (UTC) <!-- Message sent by User:Keegan (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=30513860 --> :btw I'm gonna shamelessly self-promote [[m:User:SHB2000/U4C guide 2026]] if any of you are interested – tried to be comprehensive, use it at your will. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:24, 28 May 2026 (UTC) ::I looked over your list. I'm concerned about the candidate who has an active U4C case, of course, but also about the number of candidates who didn't answer the questions. That suggests that they would struggle to do the work. ::You might look at [[m:Universal Code of Conduct/Coordinating Committee/Election/Campaigning rules]]. What the English Wikipedia calls "canvassing" is allowed. Meta-Wiki has never prohibited it, and in some processes, such as the Community Wishlist, actively encourages it. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:20, 28 May 2026 (UTC) :::It depends, I suppose. Meta doesn't prohibit canvassing, but the overwhelming opinion was that Uncle's canvassing in his NVM application was disruptive enough that it demonstrated a severe lack of understanding for what the role actually was (since NVMs are appointed, not voted in, so consensus isn't really something for the U4C to take into consideration). A massive shame, honestly, because he was one of the more qualified candidates that I had in [[m:User:SHB2000/U4C guide 2025]], one that could've actually had a chance for the SSA seat this year if it weren't for that. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:03, 29 May 2026 (UTC) :::: Having met {{u|Borschts}} in-person during last year's Wikimania, I am comfortable supporting his candidacy. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 00:07, 31 May 2026 (UTC) == New itinerary == The Ganges is one of the most important rivers of Asia, yet there's no itinerary on it, unlike the [[Yellow River]], [[Yangtze]] or the [[Nile]]. So, I have developed one on the Ganges under [[along the Ganges River]], albeit with inspirations from those Chinese rivers. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 14:34, 1 June 2026 (UTC) == User rights nomination == Hey everyone, I know this is a bit late, but there is currently 1 admin nomination right now at [[Wikivoyage:User rights nominations#Koavf (sysop)]]. Your input and opinions are more than appreciated. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:55, 2 June 2026 (UTC) == Simple version of Wikivoyage == Can we create a simple version of Wikivoyage, similar to Simple English Wikipedia? Would this be a good concept, if excecuted properly? [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 06:06, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :While Simple English Wikivoyage sounds good on paper, the Wikimedia Foundation (WMF) currently does not allow creation of Simple English projects other than Wikipedia and Wiktionary. Maybe we could host Simple English Wikivoyage under a separate namespace under English WV (similar to Wikijunior under Wikibooks), but the problem is that the English WV community is already small. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 06:26, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::I've always thought it's possible to potentially execute a multilingual Wikivoyage, but I suppose the need for that with modern translation software now present, is almost zero. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:18, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::The problem with translation software on Wikivoyage is that there's not always one-to-one translations of idiomatic expressions we tend to use in articles (as opposed to Wikipedia). For instance, there's no direct Bengali translation of "smorgasbord" used in [[India]], leading me to reword its Bengali version for a similar expression (like a "forest of languages" instead of a "smorgasbord of languages"). '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:24, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::You should still be able to usually read between the lines, though. At least this is what I often end up doing when translating content from de or itwikivoyage. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:48, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::@[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] @[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]] @[[User:Koavf|Koavf]] What about the simple version of Wikibooks, Wikiquotes, and Wikiversity? [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 08:06, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::None of those would be approved today and [[:q:simple:]] and [[:q:b:]] were closed a long time ago (there was never a simple.wv). Wikibooks has a kind of proxy for simple books at [[:b:Wikibooks:Wikijunior]]. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 08:08, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::Simple English Wikibooks and Wikiquote were closed long time ago, and there has never been Simple English Wikiversity or Wikivoyage. However, you still have Wikijunior for child-oriented books, regular English Wikiquotes for simple English quotes (if there's any), and I guess there's a Wikijunior-like mechanism on regular English Wikiversity. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 08:11, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::Wikijunior is perhaps the only bit of Wikibooks (other than the Cookbook) that's functionally usable icl... //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:54, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::{{Ping|SHB2000}} Do you want to take a look at that above comment? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 09:06, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::Sorry yeah my comment was intended as a reply to yours, not Sbb's. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:32, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :In addition to the fact that the WMF would not allow projects like simple.wp today, the language in Wikivoyage should be very accessible and the concepts are generally pretty easy to understand, so I don't see the need for this as much as for an encyclopedia that covers literally every topic and could plausibly use simplified articles. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 07:34, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::Also, I no longer subscribe to the "Simple English" language ideology I once tried to. I rather focus on accessibility by making complex concepts easier. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:37, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::"Simple English" language ideology? [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 08:13, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::Yes, and that includes limiting your vocabulary to 1500-something words (BE 1500 or VOA Special English), or even less (BE 850). However, I sometimes find it limiting (maybe Orwellian), although I don't use any overly complicated expressions, and my focus is towards simplifying concepts rather than using simple words. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 08:16, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::This is part of why I think wikis like tokwiki (an experimental language crafted on the basis of minimising the amount of words used) are absolutely useless (see [[m:User:SHB2000/tokwiki]] if you want a full explanation) – you limit expression in a needless way when there's a clear alternative available that's more practical. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:57, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::The processes that created a city or landscape are often convoluted, but their description need not be. Difficult-to-read text on WV more often reflects muddle and "wikipeditis" than inherent complexity. The solution is to re-write in a way that's clear, engaging and relevant to the traveller, not to invent a whole separate site or pidgin language. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 11:36, 5 June 2026 (UTC) : I'll give this idea a rather firm '''oppose'''. We do not have enough editors to readily support it. However, there is a valid concern about keeping the English here relatively simple. : Many of our readers will have English that is somewhat limited & quite a few editors are non-native speakers, though they all seem to have good to excellent English. Idioms are tricky in any language, so perhaps we should replace "take to his heels" with "run away" & so on. Cultural references are also tricky, whether Shakespeare or some blues tune; some of those need to be avoided or explained. Of course there is a trade-off here; we want a relaxed informal style & that implies idiomatic English with some cultural references. I'd say we are at least close to the correct balance already. : Expressions peculiar to one variety of English -- e.g. "lakh" in Subcontinent English -- should be explained if visitors are likely to encounter them, but generally avoided in our text. Expressions that vary across dialects -- does a car have a hood & trunk or bonnet & boot? -- involve judgement calls; in some contexts they are OK but in others they should be avoided or provided with a gloss. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 14:45, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :*'''Oppose''' - as per [[User:Pashley]] we do not have enough editors to support a "Simple" version. I checked a few statistics and found: :::{| class="wikitable" |- !Product !Articles !Editors |- |English Wikipedia |7,191,087 |278,463 |- |Simple WIkipedia |281,811 |3,759 |- |Wikivoyage |180,828 |985 |} :::*'''Note''' - An "editor" is classed as somebody who has made at least one edit in the last 30 days. ::This shows that in rough figures, for every Simple English editor, there are 80 English Wikipedia editors. If we were to translate this to Wikivoyage, we could expect between 10 and 15 editors on Simple English Wikivoyage which is not enough to sustain the project. Applying the same logic to number of articles, we might expect about 6000 articles - not enough to attract a reasonable readership. ::The quality of articles in Simple English Wikipedia is poor - far too few meet the criteria of using "Simple English". Simple English is moreover bedevilled by there being no agreement as to whether the target audience are younger readers or readers for whom English is a second language. Translating this to the proposed Simple English Wikivoyage to whom should we target questions regarding drugs, trans people, red light districts etc - younger readers or adult readers for who Eglish is a second language? ::[[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 16:59, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::Wow, I never expected this discussion to get many responses from different people on this pub. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 20:43, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::Some of you may be interested in reading [[m:Writing clearly#Writing for translation]]. The idea is to make your writing straightforward enough that it would be easy to translate. Machine translation, in particular, does best with shorter, simpler sentences. This doesn't mean that every sentence must be short and simple, but it is helpful if the most important parts are short and simple. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 19:08, 6 June 2026 (UTC) :: Another guide is [[w:The_Complete_Plain_Words]], originally written for British civil servants but useful to anyone wanting to write more clearly. The original 1954 edition is out of copyright & available [https://plain-words.com/ free online]. There have been several revised editions; the latest (2014) is still in print & also available as an ebook. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 19:47, 6 June 2026 (UTC) e88hrq5rlechttu6ld2s9eztjjwwn9x 5289001 5288935 2026-06-07T06:16:36Z RolandUnger 3 /* Query regarding Kartographer extension */ space 5289001 wikitext text/x-wiki <div style="text-align:left; background: var( --wv-optional-color, #f4f7fa); color: var( --color-base ); border: 1px solid #abc; padding: .3em; margin-bottom: 1.5em"> <div style="text-align:center; font-size:300%; line-height: 1; padding: 10px;">'''Welcome to the pub'''</div> {{shortcut|[[WV:Pub]]|[[WV:TP]]}} [[File:QA_icon_clr.svg|right|frameless|150px|link=]] The travellers' pub is for general discussion on Wikivoyage, and the place to ask questions when you're confused, lost, afraid, tired, annoyed, thoughtful, or helpful. To start a new topic, click the "Add topic" tab, so that it gets added '''at the bottom''' of the page, and sign your post by appending four tildes (<nowiki>~~~~</nowiki>) Before asking a question or making a comment: * Have a look at our [[Wikivoyage:Help|Help]], [[Wikivoyage:FAQ|FAQ]] and [[Wikivoyage:Policies|Policies]] pages. * If you are a '''new user''' and you have any questions about using the website, try the [[Wikivoyage:Arrivals lounge|Arrivals lounge]]. * If you have a '''question or suggestion about a particular article''', use the article's [[Project:using talk pages|talk page]] to keep the discussion associated with that article. * If you'd like to '''draw attention to a comment''' to '''get feedback''' from other Wikivoyagers, try [[Wikivoyage:Requests for comment|Requests for comment]]. * If you are '''wanting travel advice on a specific matter''' see the [[Wikivoyage:Tourist office|tourist office]]. * If you have an '''issue you need to bring to the attention of an administrator''', try [[Wikivoyage:Ongoing vandalism|Ongoing vandalism]]. * If you are having a '''problem that you think has to do with the [[mw:|MediaWiki software]]''', please post that on [[phab:|Phabricator]] instead. * If you want to '''celebrate a significant contribution''' to Wikivoyage by yourself or others, hold a party at [[Project:Celebrate a contribution|Celebrate a contribution]]. * Discuss '''issues related to more than one language version''' of Wikivoyage in the [[meta:Wikivoyage/Lounge|Wikivoyage Lounge]] on Meta. * Anything that is '''Nigeria-related''' is now meant to go in the [[Wikivoyage:Nigeria café|Nigeria café]] instead. Anything that is '''Kosovo or Albania related''' is now meant to go in the [[Wikivoyage:Kosovo and Albania cafe|Kosovo and Albania café]] instead. This includes announcements, initiatives, celebrations, and issues with certain articles. You can review old Pub discussions in the [[Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub/Archives]]. '''Pull up a chair and join in the conversation!''' [{{fullurl:Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub|action=edit&section=new}} '''Click here to start a new thread'''] </div> {{WikivoyageDoc|collaboration}} <!-- Discussions start here --> __TOC__ __NEWSECTIONLINK__ == Wikivoyage World Cup 2026 == Hey everyone!   We at Wikimedia Small Projects are excited to suggest bringing the Wikivoyage communities together once more for a event—you know, just in time for the 2026 World Cup! We’re calling it the "Wikivoyage World Cup 2026," and we’d love for you to be part of it. Here are some of our hopes for the event:   * To bring all our active Wikivoyage communities together—especially those speaking Spanish, English (yes, I know this is the right community), and French, since they’re connected to the host countries.   * To team up with local chapters like Wikimedia Mexico, Wikimedia Canada, and the affiliates in the United States.   * To improve existing articles and create new ones about Canada, Mexico, and the United States.   * To have a centralnotice to keep everyone in the loop. We’re thinking of holding the event from June 11 to August 20, so it’s a good idea to start getting things ready now. I know this has [[Talk:2026 FIFA World Cup|come up before]], and I’d really love for you to join us in coordinating the event and reaching out to affiliates and/or volunteers who might be interested. Regards, [[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]] ([[User talk:Lord Ravager|talk]]) 03:03, 25 March 2026 (UTC) :Like last time, I'm happy to judge/evaluate the articles submitted as part of this contest once again. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:36, 25 March 2026 (UTC) ::I support this initiative. I would say that it should be open to all Wikivoyage languages since many dominant national football teams don't use English, French or Spanish (looking at you, Portugal, Brazil and Germany). [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:58, 15 April 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]] Can you let us know when this is set up? [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:54, 19 April 2026 (UTC) :I'm happy to do so... and I'm happy to clean up articles regarding football as well. [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 15:33, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :@[[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]]: Any updates on this btw? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:32, 27 May 2026 (UTC) ::I apologize for the delay. We've been busy with the educational program and the event taking place in Mérida. I'll be contacting the communities in the next few days and requesting CentralNotice to publicize the event. Regards, [[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]] ([[User talk:Lord Ravager|talk]]) 23:36, 2 June 2026 (UTC) == New feature: Travel Tracker (RfC) == IRL procrastination, a random shower thought for better user retention, and 100 or so Gemini prompts (i.e. AI/vibecoding): the results of that led me to create [[Wikivoyage:Travel Tracker]]. It's a personal tool that any logged in user can use to track which countries they've visited. No scripts that need to be installed, just go to [[Special:MyPage/Visited]] and check it out for yourself. Why? Part of what got me hooked into [https://www.jetpunk.com/ Jetpunk] was exactly their country tracker. Many people use online sites to track their travels nowadays. The idea is so that casual users – users that occasionally edit Wikivoyage but only ever so often, perhaps choose to use this travel tracker, then are immediately incentivised to update their travel maps after visiting somewhere new, hopefully also updating some actual articles in the process. The tool still has many teething issues, some that will take time to fix, but it's usable for the most part. Alongside Andree's [[Wikivoyage:Trip Planner|trip planner]], I hope this too can be added to the topbar. I'm also planning on perhaps creating a similar tool for US/Indian/Mexican/Brazilian states, depending on how things go. Any feedback/fixes appreciated and welcome. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:43, 9 April 2026 (UTC) :This works well for me at first glance! (I found one glitch, "Bosnia and Herzegovina" isn't shading for me.) It would be fun to have a way to note regions and cities as well, then I'd probably use it as a "Places I've visited"/"Articles I've worked on" section on my User Page. [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 16:28, 9 April 2026 (UTC) ::The glitch is unfortunately a long-standing property of kartographer - it here are too many regions, it may not display all of them. Also, sometimes the OSM data import breaks. E.g. Thailand shape is quite broken currently, too. -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 19:07, 9 April 2026 (UTC) :::Yeah for the first I've found usually just a hard cache solves that issue. OSM data import breaks yeah I have no idea how to fix that (similar issue with Singapore too). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:47, 9 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Created [[:phab:T422902]] for the Thailand/Singapore issue – seems to be a pretty widespread problem across WMF projects so I def think it's worth this getting looked into by more technical people than us. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:59, 10 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Also have given the tracker a little bit of a revamp in terms of style + few finishing touches (like a numerical counter). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:05, 10 April 2026 (UTC) :For some reason Q38 (Italy) was added twice for me, using purely the editor. Otherwise, nice work :-) -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 19:05, 9 April 2026 (UTC) ::Ah, I see the issue (Estonia mistakenly had the Wikidata item of Italy) – fixed! :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:51, 9 April 2026 (UTC) :::It's a fun tool. To make it more interesting, you could also provide an option to break it down by region (state, province, etc.) for the top ten countries by population or area. [[User:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">Gizza</span>]]^{(<i>[[User_talk:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">roam</span>]]</i>)} 03:23, 10 April 2026 (UTC) :I've added this tool to the topbar – should work in both vector 2010 and vector 2022, but not skins older than that. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:51, 12 April 2026 (UTC) :Wow, that feature works, on Temporary Accounts too. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 12:36, 12 April 2026 (UTC) ::Since temporary accounts only lasts for 90 days from initial creation, @[[User:~2026-69216-3|~2026-69216-3]] you may want to create an account soon because your current temporary account will expire by the end of this month. As for the tool itself, I noticed that your shaded countries don't show up on my end. On the broader picture, I propose that we limit this tool to registered accounts. Otherwise we will potentially have tonnes of abandoned Temporary Account map pages that people can't access after 3 months. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 04:45, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :::I'd go further and say that I don't think temporary accounts should be able to create userspace pages at all for the same reason you mention. Maybe I'll start a separate discussion for that sometime later. But yeah @[[User:~2026-69216-3|~2026-69216-3]] in your case, would recommend doing that (and then perhaps moving your map to your userspace under a registered account). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:17, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::::If they can't create a User: space page, then they'll have a harder time telling us some things that we want to know (ordinary user page content, like languages spoken), and they won't be able to create a sandbox for testing, which could lead to making more mistakes in the mainspace. ::::Also, at the moment, this is not a big problem. [https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Special:RecentChanges?userExpLevel=unregistered&hidebots=1&hidepageedits=1&hidecategorization=1&hideWikibase=1&hidelog=1&hidenewuserlog=1&namespace=2&limit=1000&days=30&urlversion=2 Almost none are being created], and [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?search=prefix%3AUser%3A~202&title=Special:Search&ns0=1 only 14 exist in total]. ::::When we reach the point of having, say, 100 or 500 or some other large number of such pages, I think we could have a generous deletion policy for User: pages, but I don't think we need a wholesale ban. By "generous", I mean that if it's more than, say, a year old and just test edits (or actually problematic in some way), then any admin should feel free to delete it. I do not mean that an admin marks their calendar to search and delete all User: pages because it just annoys the admin's sense of tidiness that ''those'' contributors were allowed to create pages in the User: space. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:41, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :::::Hmm that's true, you do have a point especially because "Draft:" isn't a namespace here. I'll try to think of how else we could solve that issue. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:52, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::That is okay to me. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 00:40, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::Still any particular reason why you haven't just created an account btw? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:42, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::::For me, I have a preference. I would rather edit as temporary user, other than creating the registered or named account. I do not plan to stick around as much in the future. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 20:32, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::::I didn't propose to restrict Temporary Accounts from creating any "User:" pages. I am only proposing restriction on TAs creating the "/visited" pages because they can't stick around past 90 days. From a technical standpoint, is there a way to display a message only to TAs that "hey, you can use this tool locally but if you want to truly save it or show it to friends, you need to register an account"? [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:06, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :I went to see if I could embed this on my main User page. Could you add an easy way to suppress the checkboxes, maybe by a flag on the VisitedMap template? Not only would that make this map embeddable, it would make it harder for me to check boxes on other people's pages! [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 21:14, 12 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Gerode|Gerode]]: You should be able to now embed this on your userpage (just by transcluding <nowiki>{{User:Gerode/Visited}}</nowiki>). Suppressing the checkboxes I've got planned, probably using the abuse filter (since there are ''some'' cases where I think it's okay and I'd rather a warn system over a complete disallow). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:36, 12 April 2026 (UTC) Is there a limit to how many countries the tracker can show? On [[User:Asamboi/Visited|my map]], a bunch of random countries (the UK, France, Spain, Philippines, Laos) are not showing up even though they're selected. [[User:Asamboi|Asamboi]] ([[User talk:Asamboi|talk]]) 03:12, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :Usually it's a cache issue – [[Special:Purge]] should do the trick (they appear for me on your map). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:39, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::I would recommend adding a "refresh" button which functions like it's a purge, with a line telling user to click on the refresh button if the map doesn't update or have countries missing. We can't expect new users to know a special page. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 13:49, 15 April 2026 (UTC) I like this idea (have always thought about it). It also pairs well with [[User:OhanaUnited/Edits around the world challenge|the world editing challenge]]. But at first save Australia and New Zealand weren't shaded until I refresh the page. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 04:35, 13 April 2026 (UTC) : Echoing other comments, this is a nice little gadget, I tried it out the other day. An idea for how to develop it further would be an additional layer for countries the user would like to visit (maybe in green or red?). In addition to Singapore which was mentioned above, also the main part of Morocco does not want to show up. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:26, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::So far I've fixed Thailand and HK on OSM. Singapore should be easy to fix, and I'll have to look into what's causing the issue for [[Serbia]] and [[Morocco]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:51, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :::SG now also fixed. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:05, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::: Uganda is not shown. --[[User:RolandUnger|RolandUnger]] ([[User talk:RolandUnger|talk]]) 05:39, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::::It seems to show for me – you might need to clear your cache or give it a refresh. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:45, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::Serbia's mapping to Kosovo. Let's not start the next world war shall we? :) [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 17:20, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::::I [https://www.openstreetmap.org/changeset/181317764 tried] to fix it last night – ig a waiting game to see how long it'll take for this change to be mirrored here. :P //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:13, 15 April 2026 (UTC) :::::[https://www.openstreetmap.org/changeset/181357478#map=6/28.61/-9.16 And Morocco]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:32, 15 April 2026 (UTC) ::::{{re|OhanaUnited}} Both Serbia and Morocco now fixed. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:43, 16 April 2026 (UTC) :::::mexico, belize, panama, costa rica, Brazil, Argentina, Tunisia, Spain, Portugal (and probably a few more I have missed are not working for me). Is there a limit to how many you can add? [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 03:10, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::@[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] @[[User:Andree.sk|Andree.sk]] I debugged this some more and I am seeing a call to https://maps.wikimedia.org/geoshape?getgeojson for every single country in the map. So for 195 countries, the browser tries to open 195 concurrent or sequential connections. ::::::This architecture doesn't scale with our traffic and is currently triggering 429 requests which is likely why many of the countries are not showing for people. This also increases the risk that this feature could interfere with tools and other features on that site that may in future get rate limited. ::::::Can we look to get this fixed sometime next week, given this risk here? I suggest we use a single request with a pipe-separated or comma-separated list of Q-ids if that's possible or at minimum batch the queries with setTimeout and caching using mw.storage for subsequent requests. [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 19:35, 19 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::If it's possible to fix this, that would be appreciated (I'm not entirely sure how to make it such – I'm also a bit preoccupied this week and life irl has been quite hazy, but I'll give it a shot). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:08, 19 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::::I've tried batching [[Module:VisitedMap]] – does that perhaps solve some of the issues? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:14, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::::Yes! That seems to have done the trick! Thank you for the speedy fix! [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 04:20, 20 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::Awesome! Glad to know that works. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:24, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::Do you know the reason why the link to the travel map doesn't appear on Traveller's pub page? It shows up on all other pages (Wikivoyage namespace, mainspace, user page space, etc.) [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 17:02, 11 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::I can see it in the 'usual spot' (under the user icon), but only when you scroll all the way up. When the icons transform into the 'top bar', the submenu doesn't contain the entry. -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 19:30, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::This is on vector 2022 I take it? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:40, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :New bug I've noticed, once again with the Kartographer extension: for some reason, Germany and the Netherlands don't show up for anyone, but it works perfectly fine using {{tl|mapshape}}. I took a cursory look and there was nothing I could really pinpoint that was causing this issue, so maybe a phabricator task is needed? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:57, 31 May 2026 (UTC) ::Interesting, the issue seems to have fixed itself overnight. Kartographer is weird man... //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:27, 1 June 2026 (UTC) == Bug: Creating new listings with tool drops wikidata tag == Replicable bug: if you create a new listing, and add something to the `wikidata` element, it gets dropped when you save. Is there an open bug for this? Or can somebody point me at the source code? [[User:Asamboi|Asamboi]] ([[User talk:Asamboi|talk]]) 03:15, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :probably a question for @[[User:Andyrom75|Andyrom75]] or @[[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] at [[Wikivoyage:Listing_editor]] -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 07:14, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Asamboi|Asamboi]], I'm not sure I got your point. In [[Plovdiv]] I've created a new listing as a test with Wikidata field duly filled. It worked (then I removed it). Could you please check it and let me know what I misunderstood? Thanks, [[User:Andyrom75|<span style="color:#BB0000; font-family:Papyrus; font-size:12px">'''Andyrom75'''</span>]] ([[User talk:Andyrom75|talk]]) 12:55, 13 April 2026 (UTC) == FYI: Guide.world collection of travel guides == https://guide.world/ —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 19:31, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :Odd that it mentions Wikipedia but not Wikivoyage… [[User:HyperAnd|HyperAnd]] ([[User talk:HyperAnd|talk]]) 20:48, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::It links to guides by one author 21 times, and another gets 7 links. I wouldn't regard it as a neutral list, and it may deliberately avoid listing worldwide guides - the major commercial guides also don't get a mention. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:42, 14 April 2026 (UTC) == New Nigeria Expedition? == There seems to be an influx of new Nigeria articles. Is this related to any known event, or another event in violation of the [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers|event organizer]] policy? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:52, 17 April 2026 (UTC) :It looks like 21 new articles were posted. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:40, 17 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Bigcee007|User:Bigcee007]], @[[User:Viva33|User:Viva33]], @[[User:Ngozi scholar Okafor|Ngozi scholar Okafor]], @[[User:Celetex|User:Celetex]], @[[User:Senator Choko|User:Senator Choko]], @[[User:OGA Goody|User:OGA Goody]], @[[User:Adakaibe|User:Adakaibe]] (and please read [[WV:Naming conventions#Disambiguation]], which is not done in the same style on this site as on Wikipedia), @[[User:Akwugo|User:Akwugo]], @[[User:Chikwas|User:Chikwas]], @[[User:IfyClassique|User:IfyClassique]], @[[User:Bigkotech|User:Bigkotech]], @[[User:Nneka Ibeanu|User:Nneka Ibeanu]], @[[User:Ennydavids|User:Ennydavids]]: Can you all tell us what is going on and link the organizing page for us? Who trained you in how to edit on Wikivoyage? Thanks. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:39, 17 April 2026 (UTC) :::...and {{ping|Goodymeraj}} who posted a block appeal on behalf of someone else on my talk page. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:42, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Good morning sir. I posted the appeal. We are currently on a project of visibilizing some Nigerian communities on Wikivoyage. The users you mentioned and tagged above are part of the exercise. Bigcee007 is one of them. That's why I'm appealing on his behalf. Thank you so much [[User:Goodymeraj|Goodymeraj]] ([[User talk:Goodymeraj|talk]]) 05:52, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::@[[User:Goodymeraj|Goodymeraj]], please answer the questions we've asked you. Also, importantly, have you read [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers]]? If not, read it right away! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:54, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::Please which other questions did you ask that I've not answered. And yes, I read the Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers [[User:Goodymeraj|Goodymeraj]] ([[User talk:Goodymeraj|talk]]) 05:58, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::And when did you inform us about this event prior to it happening and solicit our advice and collaboration? Read and answer the questions in this thread. I see no reason to repost them. They are in the first and third posts in this thread. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:53, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::{{re|Goodymeraj}}...so it was you behind this expedition? What do you mean you've read the event organizers policy, but then failed to do ''every'' single step listed on that page? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:33, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::We have to decide what to do about this; by all appearances, it's exactly what the event organizers policy is supposed to prevent, and everyone involved is so far evading all our questions. Should we be asking right now whether all of the edits should be reverted and all the participants should be blocked, or is the more salient question whether the organizer should be banned? Our policy is either in force or it's a dead letter, so it's important for us to figure out the best course of action and take it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 15:31, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::: Can everyone please calm down a bit? I can see why Ikan asks the questions above, but I definitely do not think we should answer yes to either of them. Both the organiser & the participants appear to be acting in good faith, so heavy-handed measures should be avoided if possible. ::::: A lot of our coverage of Africa is quite weak & we definitely want contributions from new users with local knowledge. Yes, the inevitable new user blunders are irritating, but nothing that cannot be dealt with. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 16:11, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::It's the eternal paradox of the new editors: Newbies are 'expensive', but the community will die without them. ::::::As we discussed months ago at [[Wikivoyage talk:Welcome, event organizers#A draft of a substitute for the text on this page]] I'm not convinced that banning organizers is the right choice, especially on a "first offense", when we can't know whether they read the page ''before'' the event. ::::::I do think these articles need improving. Picking one at random, [[Igbo-Ukwu]] is a site of archaeological significance. The population is around 75,000, so it's the kind of place we probably ought to have an article on. It would be nice to have information added to this article (e.g., hotels, restaurants, [https://igboukwu.org/festivals/ several festivals]), but I'm not sad that we have five sentences instead of zero. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:15, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::People acting in good faith would answer our questions. The silence in reply to them is deafening. We need answers ASAP. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:02, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::{{re|Ikan Kekek}} I'd personally ban the organizer for both failing to adhere to the event organizer policy, and also blatantly lying about having read the page. Maybe I'd give a 24–48-hour grace period (from the time of your message), because any longer and that just increases the workload for everyone else trying to clean their mess. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:21, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::And also for playing dumb ("Please which other questions did you ask that I've not answered") and refusing to answer any of the questions at the top of the thread. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:28, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::You're assuming there actually was "an" organizer (possible, but not certain) and that the group didn't get together for fun and decide at the last minute to edit Wikivoyage instead of Wikipedia. If so, I'm sure they won't make that mistake again, after this [[WV:FUN]] reaction. Consider: :::::::* "Have you read [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers]]? If not, read it right away!" :::::::And then when the person did read it, you react like they should have traveled back in time to implement it retroactively: :::::::* "What do you mean you've read the event organizers policy, but then failed to do ''every'' single step listed on that page?" :::::::I think this is the most important question that's been asked so far: :::::::* Can everyone please calm down a bit? :::::::[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:47, 20 April 2026 (UTC) == Sign language phrasebooks == Would it be appropriate to make sign language phrasebooks? Such languages are actually in use, especially in places that have concentrated deaf communities, unlike say, Latin. [[User:HyperAnd|HyperAnd]] ([[User talk:HyperAnd|talk]]) 21:10, 17 April 2026 (UTC) :Absolutely! How would you do it? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:40, 17 April 2026 (UTC) ::Now that's the tricky part. Most of the notation used to write sign languages aren't very readable to an average traveller. We could simply just use video, but video isn't very editable for a wiki, so it should be supplemented with written notation if possible. The most promising notation I see are [[wikt:Appendix:Sign language entry names|Wiktionary's notation]] and [[w:SignWriting]]. Wiktionary's notation doesn't use hard-to-understand symbols, but it's non-visual. SignWriting is very visual, but we need to enable a gadget to render it because most devices can't handle 2D arrangement of text. The gadget is [[mw:Extension:SignWriting MediaWiki Plugin]], but unfortunately it's largely unmaintained. Here's the gadget implemented on [[incubator:Wp/ase|ASL Wikipedia in the incubator]] if you want to see how it looks (though it doesn't render on the mobile skin). [[User:HyperAnd|HyperAnd]] ([[User talk:HyperAnd|talk]]) 00:37, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::My feeling is, if it can be useful to travelers, do it. I think video and pictures are most useful. I couldn't make head or tails of the ASL symbols, but is it important for travelers to know them? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:59, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::My take: for most travelers, probs not – but I can see these phrasebooks being useful in the odd situation and I don't see an issue with sign language phrasebooks if someone is willing to create them and make such phrasebook useful. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:05, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::Well, many deaf and hard of hearing people read and edit websites, and there are various different sign languages, so I think sign language "phrasebooks" would be very useful to that segment of our readership and also people with keen hearing who want to communicate with them. The difficulty, if anything, is that these would be primarily video or picture phrasebooks, but the concept is the same and the need is clear. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 08:18, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::I think sign language phrasebooks would be welcome, but I do see practical difficulties. I understand that there are several English based sign languages: American Sign Language, British Sign Language, New Zealand Sign Language etc which may be difficult for sign users. The phrasebook would need to be illustrated with photos (or drawings) unless we change [[Wikivoyage:Image policy]] to allow short videos in this exceptional case. I don't think wiki editing of a video is an issue if videos are kept short (less than 10 seconds) so editing is done by uploading a replacement, as with photos. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 21:07, 19 April 2026 (UTC) == New user problems == The project certainly needs new users, especially in areas where our coverage is weak. On the other hand, new users often do various problematic things because they naturally are not familiar with local policies & conventions. Overall, I think the old hands here do a reasonable job of correcting problems, welcoming people & pointing out issues, though there are times when some of the regulars need a reminder of [[Wikivoyage:Keep Wikivoyage fun]] and [[Wikivoyage_talk:Welcome,_copyeditors#Discouraging New Wikivoyage Editors|don't bite the newbies]]. I also think most new users do quite well at learning & adapting. Are there ways we could improve this? We point new users to [[Wikivoyage:Tips for new contributors]]; does that need improvements ([[Wikivoyage_talk:Tips_for_new_contributors#Reorganize]])? What about [[Template:Welcome]]? In particular, should the template text be shortened, deleting things that duplicate parts of the Tips page? There are things we could do in software, but should we? Make the signup software display a link to Tips? Have the software that creates user pages automatically add the template? Have a bot that looks for empty "User talk:" pages & drops the template on them? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 11:49, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :Would you like to propose any specific edits? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:27, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :About making [[Special:CreateAccount]] display a link to Tips: How many of our first-time editors are creating a new account here? I believe that many of our contributors already have accounts from Wikipedia or Commons. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:39, 20 April 2026 (UTC) == Summer of Wikivoyage in Albania and Kosovo 2026 == Hi everyone, just a quick note to share that the [[M:Wikimedians of Albanian Language User Group|Wikimedians of Albanian Language User Group]] will be organizing the Summer of Wikivoyage Edit-a-thon 2026 on May 8–9. This year, we are focusing on [[Kukës]], Albania, and other travel destinations in Albania and Kosovo in English language. There will be an offline event, and everyone is also welcome to join online on Saturday from 10:00–17:00 (GMT+2) on [https://meet.jit.si/WoALUG here]. See you there! Thank you! [[User:Vyolltsa|Vyolltsa]] ([[User talk:Vyolltsa|talk]]) 15:21, 21 April 2026 (UTC) :Awesome, and thanks for the notice! I look forward to working with the group. The edit-a-thons on Albania and Kosovo are always done well. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:46, 21 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Vyolltsa|Vyolltsa]], thanks again! ::@[[User:Ruhan.paco|Ruhan.paco]], @[[User:Enarda Muhadri|Enarda Muhadri]] and @[[User:ErgisaHoxha|ErgisaHoxha]], welcome, and thanks for adding information! ::There are three things I want to call your attention to: ::(1) Default address information (starting with the name of the town, if it's the same as the article title) is not included in addresses on this site. ::(2) The "directions" tab in listings is a place for a parenthetical phrase (so no sentences) and includes only things like cross streets and if someplace is directly across the street or down the block from a huge landmark like the main railway station. ::(3) Wikivoyage does not approve of stating in any listing that anyplace is "near" x or y, because that is vague though possibly promotional and usually not worth noting if an address - and even better, [[WV:Geocoding|geocoordinates]] - are provided. ::@[[User:MegiNnnnn|MegiNnnnn]], some of your edits have another, more basic issue addressed by [[User:Ground Zero]] on your user talk page: a lack of information. All listings must include street addresses, geocoding (latitude/longitude) or at least some kind of way for readers to find them, and if at all possible, contact information, too. ::I hope I didn't leave anyone out. Please feel free to share these words of advice among your collaborators! ::All my best, ::[[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 09:57, 9 May 2026 (UTC) :::I'm not going to name names here, but I had to delete a listing for [[WV:DT|touting]] and obviously copying and pasting from a promotional site in violation of [[Wikivoyage:Copyleft]]. Don't do that. And also, please use [[WV:Listings]] templates for all specific listings (not general activities like fishing, though). [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:06, 9 May 2026 (UTC) ::::Welcome to @[[User:Ledion Aga|Ledion Aga]], @[[User:MrsNora|MrsNora]], @[[User:MrsHajrie|MrsHajrie]], @[[User:Marigen Kovaçi|Marigen Kovaçi]], and please look over this subthread. I may have left someone out. Is there a complete list of participants somewhere? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:11, 9 May 2026 (UTC) ::Some of the contributors may not able to understand your comments without our support. Please give us some time to clean up. Here is the full list of [https://outreachdashboard.wmflabs.org/courses/WoALUG/Wikivoyage_Kuk%C3%ABs_2026/home edits from the participants]. Thank you for your understanding! [[User:Arianit|Arianit]] ([[User talk:Arianit|talk]]) 16:14, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :::Sure thing. Thanks for all you do! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 16:46, 11 May 2026 (UTC) == Wiki Loves Bangla 2026 has started, Join Now! == <div style="padding:15px; font-size:120%; line-height:1.6; margin:10px 0; border:2px solid #c90023; background-color:#FFFFFF;color:var(--color-base-fixed,#202122); border-radius:8px;"> [[File:Wiki Loves Bangla wordmark logo-en.svg|right|100px|frameless|link=Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2025]] Hello, We are excited to announce that [[c:Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2026/en|Wiki Loves Bangla 2026]] has started! This year’s theme focuses on '''Bengal festivals''', inviting participants to capture and share images and videos of the diverse cultural celebrations across Bengal. '''[[c:Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla|Wiki Loves Bangla]]''' is an international photography contest on Wikimedia Commons aimed at documenting Bengali culture and heritage worldwide. It is organised annually as part of the [[meta:Bangla Culture and Heritage Collation Program|Bangla Culture and Heritage Collation Program]], with a dedicated theme each year. '''How You Can Participate''', it's easy and simple, and every upload contributes to the world's largest free knowledge repository: [[File:পাতি মাছরাঙ্গা (Alcedo atthis), জাতীয় উদ্ভিদ উদ্যান ঢাকা.jpg|thumb|right|200px|link=Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2025|Winning image from Wiki Loves Bangla 2025. ''Attribution: [[User:Ashraf747|Ashraf747]] / [[CreativeCommons:by-sa/4.0|CC BY-SA 4.0]]'']] * '''Capture''': Take photos or videos of Bengal festivals. * '''Upload''': Share your files to Wikimedia Commons between '''14 April and 15 May 2026'''. * '''Win''': A total of '''USD 1,100''' in prizes. Ready to get started? [https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:UploadWizard&uselang=bn&campaign=Wlbangla Click here to upload your media], or visit the [[Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2026/en|main project page]] for full details. Your contributions help document and preserve Bengal’s rich cultural heritage for the world. For any questions, email us or join our [https://t.me/WikiLovesBangla Telegram group]. Warm regards,<br> '''Wiki Loves Bangla Team'''. <nowiki>#WikiLovesBangla</nowiki> </div> [[User:Moheen|<span style="text-shadow:#8b9dc3 3px 3px 2px;"><span style="font family:'All Things Pink'" color="#3b5998"><b>~ Moheen</b></span></span>]] [[User Talk:Moheen|^{(keep talking)}]] 20:50, 21 April 2026 (UTC) :I hope the event is a smashing success! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:36, 22 April 2026 (UTC) ::Seconded, would be even more amazing if some of those photos submitted can be used in some of our articles here. Either way, all the best, [[User:Moheen|Moheen]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:52, 22 April 2026 (UTC) == Abolishing the see, do, eat and drink sections of region articles == {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Outline regions}} – that's the number of outline region articles there are at present. Out of {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Region articles}}. That puts the number of outline region articles at about 68%, as of writing this message. A majority of articles you'll stumble across will have no content in either the see, do, eat and drink sections, and it's very explainable: writing content in most region articles is a fairly time-consuming exercise whilst simultaneously also being one of the least read sections. In most cases, we want people to focus more on the understand, get in and get around sections for region articles rather than things to see or do, let alone eat/drink (which should really be mostly covered by individual city/park articles). My solution is rather simple: remove the see, do, eat and drink sections as mandatory headings for outline and usable articles (but they should be a requirement for guide and star articles) so the site can have a bit of a more polished look. This site has had over 20 years to prove that these sections have been useful, and they haven't. I'm aware this is a bit different to all our other categories of articles, but regions are a bit of a unique case in that a) we don't list individual listings on region pages and b) the see, do, eat and drink sections provide so little value in a majority of cases. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:10, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :I thought eat, drink and sleep were already optional for region articles. See and do shouldn't be optional. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:33, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::Sleep is, but not eat/drink per [[Wikivoyage:Region article template]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:38, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :::Let's make eat and drink optional, but I disagree with making see and do optional. There needs to be a summary of things or at least types of things to see and do in a region for it to be really usable. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:11, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::::That's fair I suppose –&nbsp;I don't feel too strongly about see/do so I'm fine with just eat/drink if that's what we all want. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:12, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :::::We might want to have a discussion on the [[Wikivoyage talk:Region article template]] page to make it official, don't you think? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:23, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::All that this can achieve is to make the metrics look a bit better, by lowering the quality threshold for a regional page to be considered "usable" – a bar that is already set low. Scrappy uninformative pages will remain scrappy and uninformative, not worth reading. :::::: ::::::“Overhang” is the term I use for regional pages that remain outline even though their constituent pages are of good standard. My guess is that these are few, do we have any numbers about that? If (as seems likely) the outline regions mostly have outline cities, parks etc then it’s sensible to put the effort into the latter. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 17:50, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::Probably should've started the discussion there, but I think for such a major high-profile change I'd prefer the pub as the venue of discussion over [[Wikivoyage talk:Region article template]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:29, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :I wonder how often we have a regional article without usable articles below it. I have occasionally added attractions to a regional article because there was no 'city' article to stick it in. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 20:52, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::Personally I think that's fine tbh – though I suppose in those cases that's where the question of whether a rural area article is more favorable arises. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:38, 23 April 2026 (UTC) Agree with whoever said make it optional. I agree that most of the time they would be unnecessary but there are enough corner cases. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 21:06, 23 April 2026 (UTC) I agree that region articles should have See and Do, and we should work towards filling those in, rather than removing them. Eat and Drink are useful, and exist in some region articles, but it does seem unlikely that we will be able to expand those any time soon. They should be optional, and removed if empty. I don't think Sleep should be in region articles at all. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:19, 23 April 2026 (UTC) : Although [[Hebrides|here]] is an example of a useful Sleep section in a region article. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:33, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::Regions should have See and Do, and can usefully have Buy, Eat, Drink or Sleep. Unfortunately you usually need to know a region well to provide complete content in any of these sections. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:03, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :::Nicely put, AlasdairW. A really good Region SHOULD have Buy, Eat, Drink and Sleep sections that provide a high-level overview (similar to the Hberides article that Ground Zero cited. I agree that listings generally don't belong in Region articles (unless there isn't an appropriate city article for it). I'm okay with having all those sections be optional for regions, but feel strongly that they should be REQUIRED for a region article to become Guide or Star. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 17:52, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::::This has prompted me to expedite the outline regions on my "to do" list, and for starters [[Hebrides]] (cited above, and already usable) was missing Eat and Drink. Quickly sorted. Three more can be done soon, improving the metrics by just under 0.1%. If we all put our shoulder to the wheel this problem will be swiftly fettled. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 10:28, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :::::'''Actual requirements''': The cited [[Wikivoyage:region article template|region article template]] (at least since before [[Special:Permalink/4786171|10 Dec]]) says about these four sections (the last sentence of each): "If there isn't anything to say about the region's [whatever] that isn't already covered by the descriptions in the Regions/Cities/Other destinations sections, or in the Understand section, then this section can be omitted." :::::For usable, "the most prominent attractions [must be] identified with directions"; for guide, there must be "information on multiple attractions and things to do". The [[[[Special:Permalink/994173|region article status]] page doesn't require the sections under discussion to exist, for any status. :::::I indeed think one needs to say something about the most prominent attractions of a region before the page can be seen as usable. Also having Eat, Drink, See and Do sections in the template is reasonable, as that should make the editor think about what usable could be said about cuisine, nightlife and attractions. For some regions, what needs to be said is already in the city listings or in Understand, making the separate sections redundant. That's fine. :::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 14:11, 25 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::So to clean up region articles for regions you know: think whether there is something region-specific to say about the four subjects, check whether it is already said in other sections and either put content in the empty sections or remove them. If you are not sure about some section for some region, just leave those section headers for somebody else to make the decision. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 14:16, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :So 3 weeks later...I take it that there's general support for making eat/drink optional, but keeping see and do. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:45, 18 May 2026 (UTC) ::Maybe we should allow usable region articles to refer the reader to a larger region (or the country/state) article for information on eat, drink and sleep. That leaves the section in place, so any region specifics are more easily added. So if [[Hebrides]] didn't have anything to say for sleep, it would say "See [[Scotland#Sleep]]". [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 12:00, 18 May 2026 (UTC) :::Have you checked the guideline I linked? Is there something in it you would like to change? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:24, 18 May 2026 (UTC) ::::In the Eat and Drink sections of [[Wikivoyage:Region article template]], replace "then this section can be omitted" with "provide a link to a this section in a a bigger region (which could be the country)". [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 19:31, 18 May 2026 (UTC) :::::Do we need sections that only have that link? Can't it just be included in context in Understand or even be regarded as implicit – the country's cuisine is usually described in the country article and in the absence of an eat section I assume readers would consult the country article without any pointer? In the case where nightlife is concentrated to one of the region's cities (not too uncommon), that can be said in the city's bullet as well as in Understand. :::::Of course, ''if'' we want that section, we can include such a sentence in Drink. But I think one-sentence sections are ugly, they look incomplete, and may attract tries at saying something, often resulting in pointless or redundant text, and perhaps listings that belong elsewhere. :::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:09, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::In cases like [[Greater Lyon]] and [[Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes]], the later of which has an extensive Eat section, it may of course be worthwhile to point out at which level of regions that description is to be found. If the region is indeed "capital of French gastronomy", then the section should probably not be omitted – there ought to be something to say. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:16, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::My thoughts are mostly with LPfi's – it should generally be implied with our region structure, not that I think many people often read the eat/drink ections in the first place. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:04, 19 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::I'm surprised you don't think they do. I would tend to think they would, as food is one of the most interesting things to many travellers and people generally. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:27, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::It ''should'' be the case, but generally I (and a few people I've talked to irl about) find most eat/drink sections to be far too lacking to actually bother reading when many better sources exist online. Even when it comes to listings, it's not all that often I actually consult Wikivoyage for places to eat or drink, and nowhere near the same level as I do for see/do. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:49, 19 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::::I'd distinguish between listings for specific eateries and descriptions of a local cuisine. I'm always interested in reading the latter, especially if it's well written and a good read. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:59, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::Hmm true, you have a point there. I do suppose that eat/drink sections of country articles (and also major region articles, like [[Quebec]]) tend to be a ''lot'' more useful than say the eat/drink sections of say [[South Central Iowa]] (which, in my opinion, can be safely removed). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:26, 20 May 2026 (UTC) :::I'd rather see something like "As with most of Scotland, self-catering cottages, camping, and bed-and-breakfast inns are available in the Hebrides" (customizing the text to whatever is most relevant). There could be a link on the opening phrase to [[Scotland#Sleep]]. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:26, 18 May 2026 (UTC) == Digital life in China == Hello from China. I wrote [https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/User:Brycehughes/Staying_connected_in_China this]. It is meant to be what I wish I had read before I went to China. I learned the hard way; I hope others don't have to (especially now that China is opening up re visa-free access). I am seeking some advice: 1) Is this appropriate for a standalone article? 2) If yes, then what template to use and also how to title it? 3) If no, then should I integrate it into China or just junk it? Basically I'd like your help in what to do with this. Any advice appreciated, thanks. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 15:25, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :I think your write-up is valuable and practical, and I think the topic is too big to fit in [[China#Connect]]. I like your current title or [[Internet access in China]], to match the [[Internet access|general article]]. [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 15:55, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::I agree with your assessment. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:09, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :::Me too. [[User:GrinningIodize|GrinningIodize]] ([[User talk:GrinningIodize|talk]]) 18:51, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :Yes, this article is valuable, especially as it has radically changed my attitude towards China as a whole. I was blocked at English Wikipedia back in 2021 for my blind hate towards China and Chinese, for which I have apologized repeatedly. And now, your article has sparked my curiosity towards that very country, its culture and people. It should be titled [[Internet access in China]], as suggested by Gerode above. Thank you for writing this and also changing my mind for good. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 16:47, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::Hey, glad I could change your mind. Not sure how this article did it but whatever works. I've traveled to a few countries at this point and one thing I always notice is everybody basically wants to just get the kids to school on time, etc. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) :::Sing it, brother. Getting the kids a good education, and taking care of the aging parents is universal. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 17:20, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::::In the west, taking care of aging parents is less? In India they die in your house. Dunno. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:35, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :::::I remember having tea with a guy in Isfahan. After we talked politics for a while, we ended up talking eldercare. He wanted to move to Tehran for career reasons. He was younger than me, but I have been through it in Toronto. The issues were similar. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:26, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::I'd say still way more socially accepted in the west to send your aging parents to a nursing home than it is outside the west. As someone who's culturally from a non-western background, sadly not uncommon to witness drama with extended family when it comes to these sorts of matters. :( //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:49, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :Sounds like I can keep the title, link at the [[China]] article. Technical stuff e.g. what templates to add can be done by more savvy people later. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:37, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::Also it is a silly banner image but these things make me laugh. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:38, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::Done and done. Please feel free to add proper templates to [[Staying connected in China|the article]] anyone so it's well fitted in the tree. Thanks, [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:44, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::[[Staying connected in China|Staying connected in China]]. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:58, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :Ooh this is a good topic – I've read about advice on this here and there on Reddit, but never a full comprehensive guide. Nice work on this! //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:44, 24 April 2026 (UTC) I wonder if we should cover bringing burner phones/devices in this page. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 06:24, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :Certainly could, although my target for the article was more the I-want-to-watch-YouTube crowd as opposed to the I-want-privacy crowd. Could have a section on privacy I suppose. (Somewhat ironically, I have a burner phone, but I bought it for entering the USA.) [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 07:48, 25 April 2026 (UTC) ::I think [[burner phones]] could be an entirely separate travel topic, since China isn't the only place where such advice would be applicable. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:08, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :::Many people need burner laptops, but perhaps that's different enough to be handled in [[Computers]]. I assume that what needs to be said (and can be kept up to date) can be said on a screenful or two, so wouldn't make that article too long. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 14:26, 25 April 2026 (UTC) It looks a useful article. If you know, it would be worth adding a note saying how much this applies to Hong Kong or Macau. The Great Firewall may be less active there, but it has been 7 years since I was last in Hong Kong. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 09:52, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :Same boat as you... I haven't been to Hong Kong since 2017. If anyone knows feel free to add. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 10:57, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :Well, the Great Firewall applies mainly to mainland China, and HK and Macau don't face such restrictions AFAIK. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 13:36, 25 April 2026 (UTC) ::Yes, I can back that up. I have friends in Shenzhen who often head over to Hong Kong because it's more convenient for accessing the open internet. [[User:ShuaiXuesheng|ShuaiXuesheng]] ([[User talk:ShuaiXuesheng|talk]]) 14:44, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :::The Great Firewall does not apply to Hong Kong. You can still freely use Wikipedia, Facebook, Whatsapp, Telegram and YouTube. Can't comment on Macau but I would imagine it's the same thing. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 16:25, 1 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I think the only risk with Hong Kong is that during political crises the CCP can lean on the HK government to restrict access. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 08:04, 2 May 2026 (UTC) == Request for comment (global AI policy) == <bdi lang="en" dir="ltr" class="mw-content-ltr">A [[:m:Requests for comment/Artificial intelligence policy|request for comment]] is currently being held to decide on a global AI policy. {{int:Feedback-thanks-title}}<br>[[User:MediaWiki message delivery|MediaWiki message delivery]] ([[User talk:MediaWiki message delivery|talk]]) 00:58, 26 April 2026 (UTC)</bdi> <!-- Message sent by User:Codename Noreste@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=30424282 --> :Finally! //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:20, 26 April 2026 (UTC) ::I don't think this proposal is the best the movement can do. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 03:52, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :::I agree and stated as much in comments at the link. Why don't we adopt a local policy that _any_ use of AI, very much including for "basic copy editing" and machine translation, must be disclosed? I'd be willing to tolerate spellcheck and grammar check if those are considered AI, but nothing else should be accepted without disclosure (or at all, if I had my druthers). We don't want people's writing style to be chucked in favor of bots. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 08:50, 26 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Hence why I supported the opt-out policy. It might not be bad on this wiki where there is an active community to clean up after AI use, but I'm in the midst of a weeks-long effort of cleaning up after someone who mass-spammed AI translations of Interlingua (see [[m:Steward_requests/Miscellaneous/2026-03#h-Mass_machine_translations/AI-generated_pages-Manual_requests-20260317184400|this]]), which I've been slacking on a bit, but the whole mass translations are absolutely disruptive and something I'd never want to see again. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:25, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :Great! We now have a policy about AI, globally. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 08:12, 26 April 2026 (UTC) ::No, we don't. And even if they pass, we need to write our own. What bothers me about "disclosure" is that it adds deadweight to affected edits, especially when the edit itself is minor. Can a label be used for the purpose? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 11:51, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] Sure, a label can be used for the purpose. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 23:29, 27 April 2026 (UTC) :I oppose AI's use on the travel guide. [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 15:32, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :: Would you allow photos, where some obstruction has been removed by an AI tool? What about finding sources when researching some off destination? May I use AI to construct a table or diagram? May my dyslectic friend have an AI point out possible spelling errors? May one use a voice-to-text AI if typing is difficult because of that accident? :: As AI is getting common, restrictions on its use will interfere with established workflows of some, soon many, contributors. Thus we need to identify the things we absolutely don't want done with AI or assisted by AI, and those where AI assistance isn't a problem. :: –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 12:58, 27 April 2026 (UTC) :::I oppose all of AI's use as far as LLMs are concerned, but for researching off wiki you can't control that, and it is helpful. AI shouldn't be used to construct a table or diagram. A dyslexic person may use it to use this voice to text typing, :::I think they should make the wording more specific and inclusive for this new regulation. :::Thanks, [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 18:18, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :::I would be fine on all of them, as long as these are legitimate uses. But for GenAI, it should not replace jobs from real workers. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 06:16, 30 April 2026 (UTC) == Changes to autoconfirmed requirements from next week == For those not following the tech news, [[:phab:T418484]] will be a pretty important update for how autoconfirmed is configured on all wikis. Namely, to quote the tech news: {{blockquote|There is a new change in how new users are autoconfirmed that will improve anti-vandalism protection. Currently, users who have had an account for a few days and made a few edits are automatically added to the Autoconfirmed users group. This configuration tends to be exploited by some vandals, who create accounts and start to use them only after some time. To mitigate this, the configuration will be updated next week so that – for the purpose of becoming autoconfirmed – the account age will be counted from their first edit, instead of registration date. The numeric value of the age threshold will remain the same. This change will be deployed only to wikis which require at least one edit as part of the autoconfirmation conditions.}} I've made the change to [[Wikivoyage:Autoconfirmed users]] accordingly, but I do think this is a change that should be more widely announced to the community. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:12, 27 April 2026 (UTC) :Seems like a good change. Thanks for amending the page, but I think the people for whom the knowledge is essential are quite few over here, and I assume most of them check the pub (or the technical news), so I wouldn't be worried about somebody missing it. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:49, 28 April 2026 (UTC) ::I trust that this works. A few years ago I had trouble with a vandal who had been blocked. His modus perandi was to create a new account, make a dozen or so reasonable edits (not difficult to do - a typo here, a grammatical correction there) and then he started harrassing me. [[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 16:09, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :::I think this will have little effect on long-term abusers. If the current pattern is "create account, wait 4 days, make a dozen reasonable, non-block-worthy edits, and then start harassing", then the only think that changes is the order of the elements: "create account, make a dozen reasonable, non-block-worthy edits, wait 4 days, and then start harassing". [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 02:40, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::::It still does prevent getting autoconfirmed while doing a series of block-worthy edits, with no preceding good or neutral ones. I assume some abusers don't move over to the new strategy. (And this also has no effect one those doing just one edit per account – if it helps against some abusers, then it is good.) The downside is that somebody who registered an account for reading and now does a few edits doesn't immediately become autoconfirmed. I don't think they expect that, so it is no big deal. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:29, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::::At present there are very few LTAs that follow this pattern – and I'd say because most LTAs are not bright enough to have the capability of making good edits in the first place. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:38, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :Good change as well, I support this change. Vandalism is rife. [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 18:21, 28 April 2026 (UTC) == Scriptbooks == We have various foreign-language phrasebooks covered at [[phrasebooks]]. However, there's only one article that isn't about language but about a writing system, and that is [[Learning Devanagari]], a "scriptbook". The very existence of such a "scriptbook" means there could be scriptbooks on Cyrillic or Perso-Arabic. However, the [[Cyrillic]] articles are deleted and salted for being "out of scope". So, should scriptbooks exist on Wikivoyage at all, or be migrated elsewhere (like Wikibooks or Wikiversity)? '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:13, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :As far as I know, travellers are more likely to talk to locals than reading scripts, especially as written languages can be translated with the translation services on your phone. Probably that's why we have so many phrasebooks and only one "scriptbook". Of course, there are obscure writing systems that translation services can't parse, and phrasebooks of respective languages are enough to cover such cases (since only one or few languages would use such obscure scripts). '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:17, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :: There are downsides to pointing your smartphone at every sign you want to read. For Cyrillic, learning the letters isn't too hard, so anybody travelling to Russia (or Ukraine) should try. On the other hand, the alphabets could easily be explained in the phrasebooks, with remarks on pronunciation in context, so I don't think a scriptbook is warranted – but neither do I think it should be salted. :: Devanagari is more complex, and the ligature are not very intuitive for most English speakers. I think that included the content of that article into half a dozen individual phrasebooks wouldn't be a good alternative. How to handle the writing system is a judgement call and I wouldn't rule out other scriptbooks, although I cannot remind me any writing system for which I would recommend that solution. :: –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:43, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :I agree that while phrasebooks are useful for travelers, scriptbooks might be valuable, particularly for complex writing systems. They could be a good resource, especially for those not easily translated by phone apps. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 15:20, 30 April 2026 (UTC) == Error on my own page == Got this message on an edit I tried to make on MY OWN userpage: ''Unfortunately, this action has been automatically identified as harmful, and therefore disallowed.'' ''If you believe your action was constructive, please leave a message on the [[Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub|travellers' pub]]. In your message, state what you were trying to do and the title of the page you were trying to edit.'' ''A brief description of the abuse rule which your action matched is: <u>Unregistered or New user blanking someone else's user or user talk page</u>'' Here is my abuse log for confirmation<br>[https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:AbuseLog&wpSearchUser=ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor+%28alt%29 https://fr.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:AbuseLog&wpSearchUser=ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor+%28alt%29] What? It's my page! Wdym? [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 12:57, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :{{ping|SHB2000}} created an anti-spam filter (#66) that seems to be catching you. Maybe they can help. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:06, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::Okay. Thanks. [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 13:07, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::66 is flag-only (mainly so it can get picked up by [[m:SWViewer|SWViewer]]), seems to be 35 that's catching your edits – the main issue here seems to be that your account isn't autoconfirmed. I've given you confirmed perms since your other account is already autoconfirmed which should hopefully stop the filter from disallowing your edits. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:14, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :::Thank you! [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 13:18, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::::It was filter 35 that was the culprit. It seems the error was my fault: I used a construction that didn't work as expected. I am sorry. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 16:48, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :::::It is all good! [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 02:13, 30 April 2026 (UTC) == FTT icon no longer displaying == Does anyone else see this same issue of no FTT icon appearing? Take a look at the pagebanner on [[common scams]] or [[Hamad International Airport]] for what I mean. The links work, but the icon doesn't. (cc {{ping|Andyrom75|Jdlrobson}}) //02:00, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :I do not see an icon. —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 02:48, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :There is no icon for me. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 15:19, 30 April 2026 (UTC) ::The link to the image seems to have been broken somehow. The file still exists ([[c:File:Writing Circle.svg]]) (I also uploaded a [[c:File:Writing Circle white.svg|white version]] for use in {{tl|Banner}} which for consistency might be better?). The fix here should be to update the link in [[MediaWiki:Common.css]] on line 128. I don't have those permissions (interface admin) any more. Instead, @[[User:Andree.sk|Andree]], [[User:Andyrom75|Andy]], [[User:Atsirlin|Atsirlin]] and [[User:Jdlrobson|JDL]] should be able to make the necessary edit. <span style="font-family:atkinson hyperlegible">― '''[[User:Wauteurz|Wauteurz]]''' <small>([[User talk:Wauteurz|talk]])</small></span> 19:39, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :::hopefully fixed, we'll see when MW/ResourceLoader reloads the caches.. -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 20:14, 30 April 2026 (UTC) ::::I see the FTT icon in the upper right of the banner for [[Common scams]], so apparently that fixed it. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 21:17, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :::Yep that did the fix – cheers, Wauteurz and Andree. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:34, 1 May 2026 (UTC) == My Culture is not a Costume video == If you are reading this, I suggest you to watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6Y5cARFJw8 Summary: Cultural appropriation should never be a thing across America, including all of these holidays, and in daily life. The Halloween costumes that co-opt their cultures, are described as insensitive, dehumanizing, and unrepresentative of the culture, asked by six women. These women had a distaste of what their culture is used as Halloween costumes, and the reasons they presented, as erasing their culture, stereotypical, and a ignorance of the rich history of ethnic minorities. The most important of all, is that traditional attire, is considered to be sacred in different cultures, outside Western countries and nations. Reminder: Please see the [[Halloween]] article, and the [[respect]] too. This quotation would be: {{q|Another consideration is that some costumes may grossly misrepresent diverse cultures or cause offence and upset to others. There has also been considerable debate about cultural appropriation. Purported 'Arab', 'Mexican', 'Indian', 'Geisha', or 'Asylum Patient' costume choices have all come under scrutiny. Costumes that mimic police or military style clothing (including those of historical regimes), may also cause offence or be mistaken for genuine.|Buy: Costumes}} Thank you for reading this. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-26450-12|&#126;2026-26450-12]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-26450-12|talk]]) 19:06, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :This is a travel guide. We are not going to tell people what costumes to wear on this site. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:31, 30 April 2026 (UTC) ::I think there's a bit of "know your audience" here. Around the time this old YouTube video was created, the Twitterverse blew up over a white American teen wearing a Chinese dress to a formal party. However, Chinese people in China thought it was acceptable.[https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/02/world/asia/chinese-prom-dress.html][https://www.scmp.com/comment/insight-opinion/article/2144595/go-ahead-appropriate-my-culture] [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 23:58, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :::I wear batik shirts all summer, and if anyone wanted to object to it (no-one has), I'd insist that they have a conversation with me in Malay. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 00:29, 1 May 2026 (UTC) :This has to be a troll post. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 09:34, 2 May 2026 (UTC) ::If you're doing it respectfully and acknowledge its origins, I don't see what's wrong with someone else's ethnic costume. When Katy Perry wore a kimono in one of her music videos, some Japanese-Americans were outraged, but people actually from Japan were perplexed as to why it was even controversial at all. And I've worn a traditional Indian shirt to a Deepavali party, and nobody found it offensive. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 07:26, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :::Key to wearing costumes of other cultures is doing it respectfully, although the risk of committing faux pas is still there. Wearing them for Halloween is probably more controversial than wearing them in proper context, such as the Deepavali. Having Finns dressed as Sámi (unknowingly combining details in conflicting ways) performing "genuine" Sámi rituals for tourists is indeed seen as cultural appropriation. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:55, 11 May 2026 (UTC) == Spirit Airlines gone bust == It seems [https://www.nbcnews.com/business/travel/spirit-airlines-shutdown-what-to-know-rcna343222 Spirit has gone bust] last night. Currently about [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?limit=500&fulltext=1&search=Spirit+Airlines&title=Special:Search&profile=default&ns0=1 320ish mentions] of the airline, so will be a massive undertaking to fix this, but any help would be appreciated. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:59, 3 May 2026 (UTC) :Some articles of [[India]] still mention Jet Airlines and GoAir, both of which have gone bust long ago. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:47, 3 May 2026 (UTC) ::Would be a worthwhile project to remove mentions of those too. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:28, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :I suppose we'll have to search for all mentions of Spirit Airlines in other articles. Or maybe hold off to see who buys their assets. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 16:01, 3 May 2026 (UTC) ::They've already had two rounds of bankruptcy. I don't think that a revival is at all likely. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 00:31, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] Was more thinking a merger than a revival, that another airline would buy some of the planes and take over at least a portion of their routes. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 16:45, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I expect all the remaining assets (everything from whole airplanes to office chairs to lease contracts on airport gates) to get sold off as part of the bankruptcy proceedings. I don't expect other airlines to really "take over their routes", but instead for some of them to increase the number of flights on routes that they were already serving, and a few to add a few new routes. Adding a new route can't be done overnight, so any airline that announces a new destination in the coming weeks has already been planning this for a while. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:47, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :Do you guys [https://letsbuyspiritair.com/ want to buy it]? —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 00:48, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::Shouldn't have vibecoded those servers... [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 12:58, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::Reminds me of [[:w:Global Airlines|Global Airlines]]. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 13:17, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::It looks like they're up to US $88 million in "unverified" pledges. That's 17% of the bailout that Spirit had been seeking a week ago, and that various news sources said might keep the airline operational for as little as six months. So... enough to keep the airline going this month, assuming that all the pledges are real (and they never are, though in some fundraising areas, you might get as high as 90%)? ::And then it dies again, of course. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:21, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::To keep it running, they need a sound business model and good management. They claim that the bankruptsy was due to the evilness of Wall Street (or so I interpret their message). They could be right, but it seems that running an airline company isn't easy these days, be it a legacy or budget one. If the business model really did work, then it is up to having the money and good management, and to not get vulnerable to Wall Street evilness (better not take loans from them). It would be really nice to hear them succeed, but I won't bet my mite on that. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:14, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I've read that they haven't been profitable since the pandemic in 2020. That suggests that they don't have a sound business model. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:49, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::::I mean LCCs around the world outside of Europe have been struggling since the pandemic, but Spirit was on a whole different level. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:25, 5 May 2026 (UTC) : What can we do by way of practical advice for travellers? There have been a fair number of stories about stranded passengers, stuck paying for a different flight, often at a higher price because one-way is usually more expensive than half of a return ticket & immediate flights more expensive than booking ahead. [https://people.com/spirit-airlines-passengers-recall-being-stranded-at-airports-after-airline-s-closure-11965179 Spirit passengers stranded], [https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/23/travel/thomas-cook-airline-collapse.html Thomas Cook] a few years ago involving 600,000 victims by some estimates, [https://www.islands.com/1996300/airlines-bankrupt-never-recovered/ 10 Airlines That Went Bankrupt And Never Recovered], ... : There are sites with advice about this, [https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/service-cessations-bankruptcy US DOT], [https://www.pbs.org/newshour/economy/after-spirit-airlines-shutdown-how-passengers-can-get-home-and-get-refunds PBS], [https://www.iata.org/contentassets/2e46aace261040b9a47fb7b9da18efc9/airline-bankruptcy-position-paper.pdf IATA] & several travel guides. It seem to boil down to seeking a refund from your credit card company & looking for "rescue fares" where other airlines offer a discount. : Are there good ways to reduce this risk? Always pay with a credit card? Does [[travel insurance]] cover this? Should you fly only on major airlines? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 17:00, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::I think Finland (the EU?) offers some protection if you book in the right way, after many passengers got stranded some years ago (COVID-19? 2008?). I think companies in the travel business are required to put money in a fund that covers their liabilities, so at least passengers should get their money back (I could be awfully wrong about the details). If you book through a travel bureau, then they take the responsibility (they probably have insurance). Then, of course, you shouldn't book via a "convenience flag" company. I believe that suitable travel insurance also covers this, but read the fine print. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:27, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com/travel/planning/what-to-do-if-tour-company-airline-goes-bankrupt.htm indicates that travel insurance with what seems to be called "insolvency cover" (not very common) can help. US credit card issuers must refund the price of cancelled flights, but that doesn't seem to be true elsewhere. :::I don't think that "only fly on major airlines" is reasonable. Airline bankruptcies are pretty uncommon in wealthier worlds. However, "don't fly on one that's already in bankruptcy proceedings" might be a reasonable rule. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:56, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::::In the UK, and I think most of Europe, you have better consumer protection if you book a "package" of flight and hotel for a single price from a travel agent (which can be a part of the airline). If the airline goes bust when you are away, the travel agent has to arrange to get you home (without further charge), and the scheme is backed with a bond held by the CAA. See [[:W:Air Travel Organisers' Licensing]]. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 20:45, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::::Yes. EU regulations require that businesses that sell packages place a deposit that should cover expenses for bankrupt partners (they estimate the costs themselves, so a bankrupt business may not be able to cover everything). In addition to returning money paid to them for unavailable services, they have to arrange and pay your journey back, if the return was part of the package. This applies only if you bought a package. If you reserve flight and accommodation through them separately, or book things yourself with their assistance (so that you get agreements with the individual businesses), then their liabilities are very limited – but they should clearly inform you that this isn't a package deal. :::::If you bought tickets yourself, you have to either ask the company itself (which may have priority liabilities worth more than its assets) or your credit company, which only need to pay back what you paid, no additional expenses. You choose which of them to ask for compensation. :::::(I did not read the directive, but a bunch of official advice.) :::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:03, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :btw a bit late, but kudos to [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] and [[User:Anyone150|Anyone150]] for doing the bulk of the removals. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:03, 9 May 2026 (UTC) == Is there an unannounced Montenegro editing event? == In the last couple of days, we've seen a number of new articles about attractions in Montenegro, few if any of them destinations by Wikivoyage definitions laid out on the [[WV:What is an article]] page, and all of them in a custom, non-Wikivoyage structure with personal comments. Are these all by one person who's using multiple accounts, or is this some kind of unannounced event? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:56, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :Please respond, @[[User:Andjela555|Andjela555]], @[[User:Zinuo67|Zinuo67]], @[[User:~2026-25860-58|~2026-25860-58]], @[[User:~2026-27229-97|~2026-27229-97]], @[[User:~2026-27107-15|~2026-27107-15]], @[[User:Stasya Kostova|Stasya Kostova]], @[[User:~2026-26916-20|~2026-26916-20]]. You are well-intentioned, and most of the titles you are adding articles for deserve to be listed on this site, in the article for the nearest town, but because you do not know about [[Wikivoyage:What is an article]] and have no idea what Wikivoyage style (for example, [[Wikivoyage:Article templates]], [[Wikivoyage:Pronouns]] and [[Wikivoyage:Goals]]) is, you are creating a mess, and if there is a planning or discussion page somewhere, one of us can post some basic Wikivoyage style and policy information to it to try to stop the mess from spreading. Please tell us who organized this editing event and who instructed you about what to add to Wikivoyage and how. It's important for us to know. Thanks! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 14:21, 5 May 2026 (UTC) ::{{re|Ikan Kekek}} Interestingly, from a CU check, it seems: ::* {{checkuser|Zinuo67}} ::* {{checkuser|Veda-Meda2015}} ::* {{checkuser|Ece Mira 67777}} ::* {{checkuser|Stasya Kostova}} ::* {{checkuser|Miona Colanovic}} ::are all a 100% match (no account blocks have been made, however). At least technically, there is no indication of this coming from a shared address either. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:23, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::Weird. Thanks for checking. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:51, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::: {{u|Stasya Kostova}} created [[Skočidjevojka Bay]] which needs to be cleaned up (couldn't find the correct template to tag for cleanup). [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 04:18, 8 May 2026 (UTC) :::::There is no such template because we don't have enough editors to say "you do it!" But if I lack time or need help, I usually post a notice on an article's talk page, where to be fair it's often ignored, and I may forget about it for some time, too. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:46, 8 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::In the case of [[Skočidjevojka Bay]], it should probably just be tagged with {{tl|stub}}. The template automatically populates it into a category if it's still like that after 7 days. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:08, 8 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::I have tagged it to merge into [[Petrovac]], as I don't think there is enough there for an article. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 10:24, 8 May 2026 (UTC) ==Policy for the phrase "adult entertainment"== An earlier version of the [[Southern California]] article used the phrase "adult entertainment" (see [[Talk:Southern California]] for discussion). As "adult entertainment" is a euphemism for pornography (but not always understood as such by non-native readers), we should have a policy which complies with [[Wikivoyage:Sex tourism policy]] and [[Wikivoyage:The traveller comes first]]. I made a draft in [[Wikivoyage:Words to avoid]]. Please contribute with your opinions. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 10:48, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :I don't think policy/guideline pages are places for drafts. If you had meant your new text to be a draft, you should have put it in the talk page for the policy/guideline page. It seemed non-controversial to me, and as I mentioned elsewhere, I support it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:53, 6 May 2026 (UTC) ::I agree with Ikan here. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:01, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::I also agree with Ikan on this one. [[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 21:27, 6 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I am happy with the addition. To me "Adult movies" could be those which have been given an "18 certificate", and violence could be the main reason for the rating. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:12, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::::I'm all for avoiding any promotion of sex tourism, but I'm not sure a knee-jerk reaction to automatically make a phrase verboten is at all useful. I often travel with my family and I would like to know where the shady hotels are so I can avoid them. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 01:21, 7 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::Just for transparency, this is what Yvwv added: ::::::{{blockquote|adult entertainment: Can be understood as a euphemism for pornography, striptease, sex toy stores, and other sexually themed attractions. If such attractions comply with the [[Wikivoyage:Sex tourism policy]] they can be described without euphemism; a strip club can be called a strip club. Use expressions with "adults" in an unambigous way.}} :::::://<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:34, 7 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::'''Oppose''' the addition of "adult entertainment" to the words to avoid list. IMHO, we need to cut that list down to just those that are genuinely useful to avoid. Well over half have perfectly legitimate uses on a travel wiki. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 01:46, 7 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::: To sort out misunderstanding, see [[Wikivoyage talk:Words to avoid]] for discussion. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 08:14, 7 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::I think that the confusing situations should be mentioned. Here's one short way to do that: :::::::* Use expressions with "adults" in an unambiguous way (e.g., "Adults only (age 18+)"). :::::::[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:13, 7 May 2026 (UTC) == Main Page revamps, part 2 == As mentioned about a month and a bit ago, I'm in the midst of trying to modernise the look of this site. The second stage of those revamps is now at [[User:SHB2000/revamped main]], which revamps the sister projects section. The style replicates the redesign agreed upon with part 1 of the revamps when we got rid of the blue box. Any thoughts and feedback welcome. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:58, 10 May 2026 (UTC) :It looks virtually identical to me, so I think it's certainly fine. The sister projects footer is the only real difference and is a little more clean and clear, so I {{support}}. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 17:40, 10 May 2026 (UTC) : {{support}} Looks fine to me. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 14:13, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :'''Wikifunctions''' is listed twice with somewhat different descriptions. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:16, 11 May 2026 (UTC) ::Done, good catch. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:34, 11 May 2026 (UTC) : I notice that the links to other language versions are down at the end. I wonder if the people who need them most will find them there. Should they be more prominent? Perhaps in the top box? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 03:38, 12 May 2026 (UTC) ::Rather confusingly, we also don't display the language versions on mobile at all – is there any design-related reason behind this? (if not, then that will be part 3 of revamps) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:45, 12 May 2026 (UTC) :::On mobile Minerva I am seeing various issues. The image in the discover section should push the text below and there is lots of blank whitespace. The map at the top is floating away from every thing else. :::Since most of our readership is on mobile I think it is important to address these. Please be sure to test it on a real phone and ensure you are viewing the default Minerva skin. [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 02:32, 13 May 2026 (UTC) ::::That seems to be an issue with the existing Main Page too. My reforms only change the Sister Projects section, which seems to work perfectly fine for me. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:47, 13 May 2026 (UTC) LGTM, thanks for doing this. Possibly a nitpick, but could the bottom row of the sister projects box be made symmetrical? --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 05:46, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :TT, this is not strictly possible without doing a lot to change the layout, since what will be symmetrical depends on your browser, monitor size, etc. On my computer, there are two rows of seven icons, which is balanced down the middle and looks quite clean. If I resize my browser window, it flows to four rows of four and one row of two, which is not symmetrical. I think the more meaningful discussion is about which projects to include. I personally would like to see [[:outreach:]] added, but I don't think it's critical. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 07:33, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::The main reason it wasn't included is because I'd literally forgotten :P. btw if you do see any missing projects, please do add them to [[User:SHB2000/WikivoyageSister]] since I won't be on my computer for the next few days. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:59, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::Done, template now updated. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:12, 31 May 2026 (UTC) == Wikidata, adding co-ordinates == [https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Wikidata:Events/Coordinate_Me_2026 COORDI­NATE ME], a wikidata contest for adding geolocation data in 26 chosen countries. Since we use that data & may have data in listings that could be on WD, perhaps some people here could help. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 04:12, 12 May 2026 (UTC) :This contest is wrought with problems, like tracking inaccuracies and errors, unresponsive organizer and delayed prize awards. Take a look at the contest's talk page in previous years to see all the issues it had. I have [https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Grants_talk:Programs/Wikimedia_Community_Fund/General_Support_Fund/WMAT_Multi-Year-Plan_Grant_2025-2027&oldid=27559767 spoken against] funding this year's contest due to fiscal and logistical mismanagement. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 14:52, 12 May 2026 (UTC) :Out of ~300000 listings we have around 4000 are like that - that we have WD for them, but the WD doesn't have coords... Now the question is, if we want to blindly export that, or what..... :) -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 20:56, 12 May 2026 (UTC) ::We also have many cities that have listings but the listings (with or without Wikidata) don't have coords. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 22:12, 15 May 2026 (UTC) == Franks Gatukök Göteborg Central == There is a hamburger and hot dog stand called Franks Gatukök in central Gothenburg (Göteborg in Swedish), right in front of the Gothernburg Central Station. I can personally verify this - I visited it less than a month ago. It also shows up at Google Maps. However, it doesn't appear to have any sort of website. Googling for "Franks Gatukök" gives a link to the site https://www.franksgatukok.se/ which lists several locations in Sweden, none of which is anywhere near Gothenburg Central Station. Their Facebook page doesn't list it either. Does anyone know if there is some sort of website for this location? If there is none, can it be listed on the Gothenburg article anyway? [[User:JIP|JIP]] ([[User talk:JIP|talk]]) 18:24, 15 May 2026 (UTC) :Sure it can be listed! Just don't include a website if there isn't any. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:22, 15 May 2026 (UTC) == A possible editorial action against WMF for laying off Union staff == You should be aware that [[meta:Talk:Community_Wishlist#May_20_update|there's currently a major upheaval]] over the alleged layoff of Community Tech staff by WMF. They're also [[en:Wikipedia:WP:Village_pump_(WMF)#Petition:_Editors_willing_to_join_in_collective_labor_action|discussing imitating a editorial strike in solidarity]] on Wikipedia because the staff that were laid off are members of the [[Meta:Wiki_Workers_United|Wiki Workers United]] union, which was formed just last week and in the process of organization. You might want to get to know them. So far, both have over 50 and 160 signatures, and both will be growing over the coming days. It's getting very significant, and it could impact this wiki, too. After that, if you agree to join in solidarity (and at the moment, pretty much a significant portion of Wikipedians are already in it), '''inform the WWU and [https://cwa-union.org/about/contact-us the CWA].''' Tell them ''everything they need to know going back years'' - and include all known heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis. After ''that''... beats me because of my lack of first-hand experience with labor unions and the like, but as [[:Wikipedia:Jeff the Land Shark|a certain little shark]] might say: {{tq|Murr. (Bite the hand that feeds. And I know where they hide the donuts.)}} [[User:2601AC47|2601AC47]] ([[User talk:2601AC47|talk]]) 19:27, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :@[[User:Asretired|Asretired]]; @[[User:Doc James|Doc James]]; @[[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]]; @[[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]]; @[[User:Mx. Granger|Mx. Granger]]; @[[User:OhanaUnited|OhanaUnited]]; @[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]]; @[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]]; anyone else? [[User:2601AC47|2601AC47]] ([[User talk:2601AC47|talk]]) 19:42, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :Thanks for posting here. But I think we should keep solidarity with a union separate from any grievances any of us might have about supposedly heavy-handed actions by the WMF involving the operation of wikis. My only grievance regarding the treatment of Wikivoyage that I can think of is that it can get lost in the shuffle. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:45, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :Thanks for posting here – for anyone reading, I'd absolutely urge you all to sign yourself in solidarity with WMF staff by adding your name at [[m:Wiki Workers United#Solidarity]] (I'd already done so before the ping). What happened yesterday absolutely reeked of corporatism and union-busting. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:37, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :I am not presently a member of the en.wp community and I would not seek to have anyone edit by proxy there for me or anything like that, but I want to register somewhere that I stand in solidarity with organized labor. There should probably be a [[phab:]] ticket to reform the entire Wikimedia Foundation into a worker-owned co-operative non-profit. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 02:46, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::I find this sort of discussion frustrating, because so few people seem to know what they're talking about. For example, Justin, forgive me for picking on you, but the WMF can't be reformed into "a worker-owned co-operative non-profit", because public charities in the US can't technically be "owned" by anyone. I suggest that anyone who wants to support labor rights would do well to learn more about the subject, and then talk to their own elected politicians about making it ''structurally'' feasible to have a labor union that crosses national borders – not merely a federation of locals that coordinate with each other (which is what "international" labor unions are), but an actual single organization, operating under the same rules, so you don't get the lone employee in this country having a "union" of me, myself, and I or the near-impossibility of writing a contract that is the same for everyone. It's bad enough that US states have different rules (e.g., layoffs above a certain size in California require 60 calendar days' [fully paid] advance notice); it's almost impossible to reconcile different national laws. ::Then you have the problem of people having different cultural conceptions of what a union is supposed to do for you. Is the labor union supposed to get you higher pay, or fairer conditions [which can mean lower pay and worse working conditions for previously privileged staff], or prevent staff from being fired, or organize social events, or help you get your next job, or something else? I know one municipal labor union whose negotiations are done by senior employees that "accidentally" preferred themselves for vacation scheduling, higher pay, and never having to work holidays and weekends for years. I know a couple of people at another organization who are pushing for a union; they seem to mostly be afraid that they will get fired someday but not understand why they were fired (I'm objectively doing well at the parts of my job that I think are important; why should my manager's opinion, or that fact that all my teammates keep quitting to get away from me, be relevant?). ::Apologies for the long post, but: please, don't assume that whatever your local laws or views of unions are would be relevant to any situation that extends outside of your home area. It's really enormously complicated. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:55, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::It's not picking on me, but you are wrong factually: you can have a [https://www.theselc.org/workplace_democracy_in_nonprofit_organizations worker self-directed non-profit 501(c)3 in the United States]. I am generally opposed to any hierarchy that models the way that capitalist businesses can unilaterally hire and fire. Maybe these workers still needed to be fired for some reason, but that should be decided by a democratic process. What <em>that</em> looks like will be different from organization to organization (e.g. a grievances board, administrative leave while under review, managers who are elected on a periodic basis and given the power to hire and fire by the working class, etc.), but when it comes to someone's basic livelihood and the fact that most of us live under wage slavery, then I don't want anyone getting fired without a democratic process behind it or at the very least some kind of extraordinary emergency reason. Additionally, for what it's worth, California (where the WMF are based) has laws specifically designed to help incorporate for-profit businesses as a co-op, so I would imagine that if someone wanted to create a worker self-directed non-profit, that would probably be the easiest place in the United States to do it. Lastly, I don't know why you seem to assume that I don't live in California. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 21:39, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::::"Self-directed" and "owned" are different things. ::::I make no assumptions about where you are; I give the California example because it's one that I know exists in my state and that I know does not exist everywhere. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:08, 23 May 2026 (UTC) :::::By "worker-owned co-op", I am distinguishing it from a member co-op like a grocery co-op or a credit union or a co-op apartment complex. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 23:04, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :On the question of what Wikivoyage needs: :The OP is already blocked on two wikis for trolling and disruptive editing. Their contributions here this year are to import drama that is not directly related to us. This has happened a few times before with other editors (e.g., complaints about software changes). :The Simple English Wikipedia has [https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Blocks_and_bans#Reciprocal a rule called "1STRIKE"] that applies to people who have already been blocked elsewhere (almost always the English Wikipedia), and then bring their bad behavior to Simple. Maybe we should consider adopting a similar rule. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:56, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::They haven't done anything blockable or even against any guidelines here, and to be clear, you're suggesting we should indefinitely block them for informing us about layoffs and anti-union actions? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 18:03, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::I'm suggesting that when someone says "Tell [an external organization] ''everything they need to know going back years'' - and include all known heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis", that this is more like "drama-mongering" than "informing". :::For example, the WMF deployed the current MediaWiki desktop skin several years ago, and some people are still mad about this "heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis". The Russian Wikipedia is still running a pop-up message saying that this was deployed without their consent. Do you think that's relevant to either layoffs or unionizing? I don't. Some of the "heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis" even involved the team that's being dissolved. There are probably still people at the German-language Wikipedia who think that Comm Tech was wrong to decline their urgent wish for the wrong piece of software to be re-installed, when the actual problem was created by their own local interface admins. There are definitely some who are still mad that the WMF stopped two of their admins from wheel-warring over the site config years ago. But none of these "heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis" have anything to do with unionizing. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 19:48, 24 May 2026 (UTC) ::::If you noticed, I addressed that above without saying they should be summarily blocked, and no-one has taken them up on that here, at any rate. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:36, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :::::2601AC47 was globally locked. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-31136-19|&#126;2026-31136-19]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-31136-19|talk]]) 22:53, 24 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::Why? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:02, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::[https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Meta:Requests_for_help_from_a_sysop_or_bureaucrat#c-Tamzin-20260523115300-Trolling/vandalism_at_highly_sensitive_WMF-related_discussion This was the conversation/request]. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 23:06, 24 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::Yeah, I see. They really trolled in that thread. Too bad; I'm indebted to them for informing me about these happenings. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 00:15, 25 May 2026 (UTC) ::We already have [[WV:ONESTRIKE]], by the way, but I really don't think bringing up the attention of the WMF's recent union busting actions is anywhere near disruptive to warrant an indefinitely. If it wasn't them, it almost certainly would've been brought up by someone else in the pub. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:09, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::I signed it in the signatures. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 00:37, 5 June 2026 (UTC) == May 2026 Wikimedia Café meetups regarding the Wikimedia Foundation Annual Plan == <div class="border-box" style="background-color: var(--background-color-warning-subtle, #f8eaba); max-width: 875px; padding: 5px; border: 1px solid black; margin: 5px; color: var(--clr-dark)"> <div class="box" style="float:left; padding-top: 15px; padding-right: 15px;">[[File:Wikimedia Café logo in plain SVG format.svg|75px|alt=The logo for the Wikimedia Café]]</div> Hello! There will be two '''[https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9 Wikimedia Café]''' discussion opportunities during the last weekend of May. Both sessions will focus on the [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Foundation_Annual_Plan/2026-2027 the 2026-2027 Wikimedia Foundation Annual Plan]. Participants may attend either or both sessions. #'''Saturday, 30 May 2026 at 15:00 UTC''' ([https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/1780153200 timestamp converter]), at a time friendly to the Americas, Africa, and Europe #'''Sunday, 31 May 2026 at 05:00 UTC''' ([https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/1780203600 timestamp converter]), at a time friendly to Asia and the Pacific Café participants are highly encouraged to read in advance [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Sohom_Datta/annual_plan_guide at least this summary of the plan]. Optionally, Café participants are encouraged to read portions of the plan that interest them and [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Talk:Wikimedia_Foundation_Annual_Plan/2026-2027 ask questions or provide feedback on the Annual Plan talk page]. Please see the Café page for more information, including [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9#May_2026_meetings_with_a_focus_on_Wikimedia_Foundation_Annual_Plan/2026-2027 tables of timestamp conversions for both sessions], [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9#Agenda._This_will_be_an_approximately_1_hour_Caf%C3%A9_session,_and_is_extendible_for_an_additional_30_minutes_if_needed. the agenda], and [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9#How_to_attend_the_session how to register]! <br /> [[File:Buntstifte Eberhard Faber crop 64h.jpg|860px|alt=cropped image of colored pencils]]</div> <span style="white-space:nowrap;">[[User:Pine|<span style="color:#01796f; text-shadow:#00BFFF 0 0 1.0em">↠Pine</span>]] [[User talk:Pine|<span style="color:DeepSkyBlue">(<b style="color:#FFDF00;text-shadow:#FFDF00 0 0 1.0em">✉</b>)</span>]]</span> 19:48, 21 May 2026 (UTC) == Faroe Islands update == Alright, I'm flying to [[Tórshavn]] next week. Anything on [[Faroe Islands]] that need a listing update, a picture or boots-on-the-ground verification? [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:31, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :Wow, what an opportunity. Our sister site has some [[:w:en:Category:Wikipedia requested photographs in the Faroe Islands|requested photographs]] if you are available to take any. (Note that I'm not a member of the community there and I'm not soliciting editing by proxy.) ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 15:59, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::Heh, I think it wouldn't be controversial to request to take a picture of a village or power plant. I've bookmarked several places and at least two locations are along the way to/from the airport so I have at least two chances to take pictures. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 18:06, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :I notice that [[Faroe Islands#Towns and villages]] says "the roofs are often turf-covered", next to a picture showing no turf-covered roofs. Perhaps you could easily determine whether "often" is still the right word? [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:02, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::Roofs are about 70-80% turf-covered when I see them in villages, but this number drops in bigger towns and only a few houses in the capital have turf roofs. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 23:12, 26 May 2026 (UTC) == Query regarding Kartographer extension == I am an editor at the Malayalam Wikivoyage project, which is currently hosted in [https://incubator.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wy/ml/%E0%B4%AA%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%B0%E0%B4%A7%E0%B4%BE%E0%B4%A8_%E0%B4%A4%E0%B4%BE%E0%B5%BE Incubator]. We recently encountered an issue where map markers were not appearing on maps. We raised a ticket in [https://phabricator.wikimedia.org/T395208 Phabricator], and came to know that the Kartographer extension is being removed. Does anyone here know of any alternative extension or approach that can be used to show markers on maps for denoting places? [[User:Adithyak1997|Adithyak1997]] ([[User talk:Adithyak1997|talk]]) 17:19, 23 May 2026 (UTC) :As far as I'm aware, Kartographer is not being removed as such, just not being added to any non-Wikivoyage WMF wikis. There is a [[phab:project/view/1692/|project board for Kartographer]] on [[phab:]] and you can [[mw:Help:Extension:Kartographergenerally learn more|mw:Help:Extension:Kartographer generally learn more about]] the extension on [[mw:]]. I imagine that if Kartographer were to be removed, there would be a replacement deployed before that. {{Ping|Jdforrester (WMF)}} can you confirm that I'm correct (or if not, correct me)? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 18:12, 23 May 2026 (UTC) ::{{Ping|Koavf}} Thanks for sharing the links. I have already raised a ticket in Phabricator and it was based on that, I came to know that it will not be enabled on any new Wikivoyages and that it will be removed from other Wikivoyages too. {{Ping|Jdforrester (WMF)}} For your confirmation/comments on above reply please. [[User:Adithyak1997|Adithyak1997]] ([[User talk:Adithyak1997|talk]]) 15:59, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:Adithyak1997|Adithyak1997]]: Indeed, as I said there, " the mode should also have been removed from Wikivoyages". The problem is not with Kartographer but with the 'temporary' hack to allow Wikivoyages to cross-load content from WMCS, which was promised to be removed. :::@[[User:Koavf|Koavf]]: Do you know when the Wikivoyage community will finally do this work? [[User:Jdforrester (WMF)|Jdforrester (WMF)]] ([[User talk:Jdforrester (WMF)|talk]]) 12:57, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I don't have any special insight into that, unfortunately. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 14:38, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I think [[User:Andree.sk|Andree.sk]], [[User:OhanaUnited|OhanaUnited]], and [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] know more about maps than most of us. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:28, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :::::I'm not sure what is expected to be done by us, though? Is kartographer as a whole deprecated, or just some feature of it? Groups? I am completely out of loop here... -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 20:27, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :::::: I have no idea either. The only thing I did that is related to Kartographer is reporting a bug with missing pins on a map whenever some pins fall across both sides of the international date line. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 23:14, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::@[[User:Andree.sk|Andree.sk]]: Yes, Groups, according to https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Extension:Kartographer#Groups_for_Wikivoyage — but it doesn't explain what's the limitation specifically (in general, having groups seems fine?). [[User:Jdforrester (WMF)|Jdforrester (WMF)]] ([[User talk:Jdforrester (WMF)|talk]]) 17:09, 1 June 2026 (UTC) ::::If you don't mind me asking, where was it promised to be removed? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:07, 27 May 2026 (UTC) == [[Template:Other uses]] == Looking at [[Template:Other uses]], I see that it is supposed to generate an italicized hatnote such as the following: :''For other places with the same name, see [[Cleveland (disambiguation)]].'' But where I see {{tl|Other uses}} used on pages such as [[Burbank]] and [[Columbus]], the hatnote is ''not'' italicized: :For other places with the same name, see [[Burbank (disambiguation)]]. :For other places with the same name, see [[Columbus (disambiguation)]]. I checked the template {{tl|Other uses}} itself and I couldn't figure out why the italics are not showing up. Anybody have a suggestion? -- [[User:Metropolitan90|Metropolitan90]] ([[User talk:Metropolitan90|talk]]) 21:46, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :I [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Template%3AOther_uses&diff=5282293&oldid=5282292 removed the CSS classes] and it now renders italicized on pages. The weird thing is that these classes are not part of [[MediaWiki:Common.css]], so ''maybe'' adding non-defined classes results in unstyled text. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 22:56, 24 May 2026 (UTC) == A Pee section on articles == Hey everyone, I suggest adding a “pee” or “poop” section to articles (district, city, region, country), or having articles like “peeing in the (country)” or “peeing in (city)” would be great. Thanks…[[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 12:10, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :I think you're looking for a subsection under the "Respect" section where we are supposed to discuss the regulations regarding defecation and urination. Or public bathrooms under the "Cope" section. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 12:34, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :I think that a title like [[Toilets in the United Arab Emirate]] would be more appropriate and expected. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:53, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::Like if we have “sleep”, “eat” and “see” instead of “accommodation”, “F&B choices” and “attractions”, I think we need a “pee”, “poop”, “urinate”, “defecate”, “excrete”, “eliminate waste”, “dump”, “crap”, “drop a deuce”, “piss”, “whiz”, “micturate”, “/ʃɪt/” section. [[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 18:23, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::: no we don't, not with this type of vocabulary which is very unbecoming for a travel guide. You are welcome to create a WikiPee website, invite whomever you want to join, and write whatever suits your fancy. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 18:48, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::Even if we thought that a "Pee" section was a good label, it's unlikely to be the one that readers are looking for. That's what I meant when I said that "Toilets" might be more "expected". [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:20, 27 May 2026 (UTC) :::I don't think we need such a separate section on it, as [[WV:STICK]] already suggests putting toilets under "Cope". Even if we ever find a need for such a section, I would suggest "Toilet" as a verb. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 02:52, 27 May 2026 (UTC) ::::Okay, but maybe the region doesn’t have any toilets, or the locals pee in a hole, on the floor, or in a valley. Also, I think there are peeing customs or peeing places in the city or country. Is the water quality good? What does it feel like to pee (peeing experience)? That’s why we need a pee section. [[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 18:03, 27 May 2026 (UTC) :::::Yes, as was pointed out Cope is the place for information about toilets and it's indeed useful information for voyagers - especially in destinations where toilets are hard to find for one reason or another. Plainly writing out "Pee", "Shit" or the like as a heading would be rude, though. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:27, 27 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::If we include “pee” in “cope,” the “cope” section will have a lot of information that doesn’t have enough variety. ::::::That’s all— [[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 08:11, 28 May 2026 (UTC) == Vote now in the 2026 U4C election == <section begin="announcement-content" /> Eligible voters are asked to participate in the 2026 [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee|Universal Code of Conduct Coordinating Committee]] election. More information–including an eligibility check, voting process information, candidate information, and a link to the vote–are available on Meta at the [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee/Election/2026|2026 Election information page]]. The vote closes on 2 June 2026 at [https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/1780358400 00:00 UTC]. Please vote if your account is eligible. Results will be available by 14 June 2026. -- In cooperation with the U4C,<section end="announcement-content" /> [[m:User:Keegan (WMF)|Keegan (WMF)]] ([[m:User talk:Keegan (WMF)|talk]]) 17:15, 27 May 2026 (UTC) <!-- Message sent by User:Keegan (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=30513860 --> :btw I'm gonna shamelessly self-promote [[m:User:SHB2000/U4C guide 2026]] if any of you are interested – tried to be comprehensive, use it at your will. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:24, 28 May 2026 (UTC) ::I looked over your list. I'm concerned about the candidate who has an active U4C case, of course, but also about the number of candidates who didn't answer the questions. That suggests that they would struggle to do the work. ::You might look at [[m:Universal Code of Conduct/Coordinating Committee/Election/Campaigning rules]]. What the English Wikipedia calls "canvassing" is allowed. Meta-Wiki has never prohibited it, and in some processes, such as the Community Wishlist, actively encourages it. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:20, 28 May 2026 (UTC) :::It depends, I suppose. Meta doesn't prohibit canvassing, but the overwhelming opinion was that Uncle's canvassing in his NVM application was disruptive enough that it demonstrated a severe lack of understanding for what the role actually was (since NVMs are appointed, not voted in, so consensus isn't really something for the U4C to take into consideration). A massive shame, honestly, because he was one of the more qualified candidates that I had in [[m:User:SHB2000/U4C guide 2025]], one that could've actually had a chance for the SSA seat this year if it weren't for that. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:03, 29 May 2026 (UTC) :::: Having met {{u|Borschts}} in-person during last year's Wikimania, I am comfortable supporting his candidacy. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 00:07, 31 May 2026 (UTC) == New itinerary == The Ganges is one of the most important rivers of Asia, yet there's no itinerary on it, unlike the [[Yellow River]], [[Yangtze]] or the [[Nile]]. So, I have developed one on the Ganges under [[along the Ganges River]], albeit with inspirations from those Chinese rivers. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 14:34, 1 June 2026 (UTC) == User rights nomination == Hey everyone, I know this is a bit late, but there is currently 1 admin nomination right now at [[Wikivoyage:User rights nominations#Koavf (sysop)]]. Your input and opinions are more than appreciated. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:55, 2 June 2026 (UTC) == Simple version of Wikivoyage == Can we create a simple version of Wikivoyage, similar to Simple English Wikipedia? Would this be a good concept, if excecuted properly? [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 06:06, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :While Simple English Wikivoyage sounds good on paper, the Wikimedia Foundation (WMF) currently does not allow creation of Simple English projects other than Wikipedia and Wiktionary. Maybe we could host Simple English Wikivoyage under a separate namespace under English WV (similar to Wikijunior under Wikibooks), but the problem is that the English WV community is already small. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 06:26, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::I've always thought it's possible to potentially execute a multilingual Wikivoyage, but I suppose the need for that with modern translation software now present, is almost zero. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:18, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::The problem with translation software on Wikivoyage is that there's not always one-to-one translations of idiomatic expressions we tend to use in articles (as opposed to Wikipedia). For instance, there's no direct Bengali translation of "smorgasbord" used in [[India]], leading me to reword its Bengali version for a similar expression (like a "forest of languages" instead of a "smorgasbord of languages"). '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:24, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::You should still be able to usually read between the lines, though. At least this is what I often end up doing when translating content from de or itwikivoyage. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:48, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::@[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] @[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]] @[[User:Koavf|Koavf]] What about the simple version of Wikibooks, Wikiquotes, and Wikiversity? [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 08:06, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::None of those would be approved today and [[:q:simple:]] and [[:q:b:]] were closed a long time ago (there was never a simple.wv). Wikibooks has a kind of proxy for simple books at [[:b:Wikibooks:Wikijunior]]. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 08:08, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::Simple English Wikibooks and Wikiquote were closed long time ago, and there has never been Simple English Wikiversity or Wikivoyage. However, you still have Wikijunior for child-oriented books, regular English Wikiquotes for simple English quotes (if there's any), and I guess there's a Wikijunior-like mechanism on regular English Wikiversity. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 08:11, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::Wikijunior is perhaps the only bit of Wikibooks (other than the Cookbook) that's functionally usable icl... //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:54, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::{{Ping|SHB2000}} Do you want to take a look at that above comment? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 09:06, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::Sorry yeah my comment was intended as a reply to yours, not Sbb's. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:32, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :In addition to the fact that the WMF would not allow projects like simple.wp today, the language in Wikivoyage should be very accessible and the concepts are generally pretty easy to understand, so I don't see the need for this as much as for an encyclopedia that covers literally every topic and could plausibly use simplified articles. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 07:34, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::Also, I no longer subscribe to the "Simple English" language ideology I once tried to. I rather focus on accessibility by making complex concepts easier. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:37, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::"Simple English" language ideology? [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 08:13, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::Yes, and that includes limiting your vocabulary to 1500-something words (BE 1500 or VOA Special English), or even less (BE 850). However, I sometimes find it limiting (maybe Orwellian), although I don't use any overly complicated expressions, and my focus is towards simplifying concepts rather than using simple words. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 08:16, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::This is part of why I think wikis like tokwiki (an experimental language crafted on the basis of minimising the amount of words used) are absolutely useless (see [[m:User:SHB2000/tokwiki]] if you want a full explanation) – you limit expression in a needless way when there's a clear alternative available that's more practical. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:57, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::The processes that created a city or landscape are often convoluted, but their description need not be. Difficult-to-read text on WV more often reflects muddle and "wikipeditis" than inherent complexity. The solution is to re-write in a way that's clear, engaging and relevant to the traveller, not to invent a whole separate site or pidgin language. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 11:36, 5 June 2026 (UTC) : I'll give this idea a rather firm '''oppose'''. We do not have enough editors to readily support it. However, there is a valid concern about keeping the English here relatively simple. : Many of our readers will have English that is somewhat limited & quite a few editors are non-native speakers, though they all seem to have good to excellent English. Idioms are tricky in any language, so perhaps we should replace "take to his heels" with "run away" & so on. Cultural references are also tricky, whether Shakespeare or some blues tune; some of those need to be avoided or explained. Of course there is a trade-off here; we want a relaxed informal style & that implies idiomatic English with some cultural references. I'd say we are at least close to the correct balance already. : Expressions peculiar to one variety of English -- e.g. "lakh" in Subcontinent English -- should be explained if visitors are likely to encounter them, but generally avoided in our text. Expressions that vary across dialects -- does a car have a hood & trunk or bonnet & boot? -- involve judgement calls; in some contexts they are OK but in others they should be avoided or provided with a gloss. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 14:45, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :*'''Oppose''' - as per [[User:Pashley]] we do not have enough editors to support a "Simple" version. I checked a few statistics and found: :::{| class="wikitable" |- !Product !Articles !Editors |- |English Wikipedia |7,191,087 |278,463 |- |Simple WIkipedia |281,811 |3,759 |- |Wikivoyage |180,828 |985 |} :::*'''Note''' - An "editor" is classed as somebody who has made at least one edit in the last 30 days. ::This shows that in rough figures, for every Simple English editor, there are 80 English Wikipedia editors. If we were to translate this to Wikivoyage, we could expect between 10 and 15 editors on Simple English Wikivoyage which is not enough to sustain the project. Applying the same logic to number of articles, we might expect about 6000 articles - not enough to attract a reasonable readership. ::The quality of articles in Simple English Wikipedia is poor - far too few meet the criteria of using "Simple English". Simple English is moreover bedevilled by there being no agreement as to whether the target audience are younger readers or readers for whom English is a second language. Translating this to the proposed Simple English Wikivoyage to whom should we target questions regarding drugs, trans people, red light districts etc - younger readers or adult readers for who Eglish is a second language? ::[[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 16:59, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::Wow, I never expected this discussion to get many responses from different people on this pub. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 20:43, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::Some of you may be interested in reading [[m:Writing clearly#Writing for translation]]. The idea is to make your writing straightforward enough that it would be easy to translate. Machine translation, in particular, does best with shorter, simpler sentences. This doesn't mean that every sentence must be short and simple, but it is helpful if the most important parts are short and simple. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 19:08, 6 June 2026 (UTC) :: Another guide is [[w:The_Complete_Plain_Words]], originally written for British civil servants but useful to anyone wanting to write more clearly. The original 1954 edition is out of copyright & available [https://plain-words.com/ free online]. There have been several revised editions; the latest (2014) is still in print & also available as an ebook. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 19:47, 6 June 2026 (UTC) cu4cdi2doekh3izl7gyvb1aiwasl74d 5289002 5289001 2026-06-07T06:28:08Z RolandUnger 3 /* Query regarding Kartographer extension */ pipe, link corrected 5289002 wikitext text/x-wiki <div style="text-align:left; background: var( --wv-optional-color, #f4f7fa); color: var( --color-base ); border: 1px solid #abc; padding: .3em; margin-bottom: 1.5em"> <div style="text-align:center; font-size:300%; line-height: 1; padding: 10px;">'''Welcome to the pub'''</div> {{shortcut|[[WV:Pub]]|[[WV:TP]]}} [[File:QA_icon_clr.svg|right|frameless|150px|link=]] The travellers' pub is for general discussion on Wikivoyage, and the place to ask questions when you're confused, lost, afraid, tired, annoyed, thoughtful, or helpful. To start a new topic, click the "Add topic" tab, so that it gets added '''at the bottom''' of the page, and sign your post by appending four tildes (<nowiki>~~~~</nowiki>) Before asking a question or making a comment: * Have a look at our [[Wikivoyage:Help|Help]], [[Wikivoyage:FAQ|FAQ]] and [[Wikivoyage:Policies|Policies]] pages. * If you are a '''new user''' and you have any questions about using the website, try the [[Wikivoyage:Arrivals lounge|Arrivals lounge]]. * If you have a '''question or suggestion about a particular article''', use the article's [[Project:using talk pages|talk page]] to keep the discussion associated with that article. * If you'd like to '''draw attention to a comment''' to '''get feedback''' from other Wikivoyagers, try [[Wikivoyage:Requests for comment|Requests for comment]]. * If you are '''wanting travel advice on a specific matter''' see the [[Wikivoyage:Tourist office|tourist office]]. * If you have an '''issue you need to bring to the attention of an administrator''', try [[Wikivoyage:Ongoing vandalism|Ongoing vandalism]]. * If you are having a '''problem that you think has to do with the [[mw:|MediaWiki software]]''', please post that on [[phab:|Phabricator]] instead. * If you want to '''celebrate a significant contribution''' to Wikivoyage by yourself or others, hold a party at [[Project:Celebrate a contribution|Celebrate a contribution]]. * Discuss '''issues related to more than one language version''' of Wikivoyage in the [[meta:Wikivoyage/Lounge|Wikivoyage Lounge]] on Meta. * Anything that is '''Nigeria-related''' is now meant to go in the [[Wikivoyage:Nigeria café|Nigeria café]] instead. Anything that is '''Kosovo or Albania related''' is now meant to go in the [[Wikivoyage:Kosovo and Albania cafe|Kosovo and Albania café]] instead. This includes announcements, initiatives, celebrations, and issues with certain articles. You can review old Pub discussions in the [[Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub/Archives]]. '''Pull up a chair and join in the conversation!''' [{{fullurl:Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub|action=edit&section=new}} '''Click here to start a new thread'''] </div> {{WikivoyageDoc|collaboration}} <!-- Discussions start here --> __TOC__ __NEWSECTIONLINK__ == Wikivoyage World Cup 2026 == Hey everyone!   We at Wikimedia Small Projects are excited to suggest bringing the Wikivoyage communities together once more for a event—you know, just in time for the 2026 World Cup! We’re calling it the "Wikivoyage World Cup 2026," and we’d love for you to be part of it. Here are some of our hopes for the event:   * To bring all our active Wikivoyage communities together—especially those speaking Spanish, English (yes, I know this is the right community), and French, since they’re connected to the host countries.   * To team up with local chapters like Wikimedia Mexico, Wikimedia Canada, and the affiliates in the United States.   * To improve existing articles and create new ones about Canada, Mexico, and the United States.   * To have a centralnotice to keep everyone in the loop. We’re thinking of holding the event from June 11 to August 20, so it’s a good idea to start getting things ready now. I know this has [[Talk:2026 FIFA World Cup|come up before]], and I’d really love for you to join us in coordinating the event and reaching out to affiliates and/or volunteers who might be interested. Regards, [[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]] ([[User talk:Lord Ravager|talk]]) 03:03, 25 March 2026 (UTC) :Like last time, I'm happy to judge/evaluate the articles submitted as part of this contest once again. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:36, 25 March 2026 (UTC) ::I support this initiative. I would say that it should be open to all Wikivoyage languages since many dominant national football teams don't use English, French or Spanish (looking at you, Portugal, Brazil and Germany). [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:58, 15 April 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]] Can you let us know when this is set up? [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:54, 19 April 2026 (UTC) :I'm happy to do so... and I'm happy to clean up articles regarding football as well. [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 15:33, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :@[[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]]: Any updates on this btw? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:32, 27 May 2026 (UTC) ::I apologize for the delay. We've been busy with the educational program and the event taking place in Mérida. I'll be contacting the communities in the next few days and requesting CentralNotice to publicize the event. Regards, [[User:Lord Ravager|Lord Ravager]] ([[User talk:Lord Ravager|talk]]) 23:36, 2 June 2026 (UTC) == New feature: Travel Tracker (RfC) == IRL procrastination, a random shower thought for better user retention, and 100 or so Gemini prompts (i.e. AI/vibecoding): the results of that led me to create [[Wikivoyage:Travel Tracker]]. It's a personal tool that any logged in user can use to track which countries they've visited. No scripts that need to be installed, just go to [[Special:MyPage/Visited]] and check it out for yourself. Why? Part of what got me hooked into [https://www.jetpunk.com/ Jetpunk] was exactly their country tracker. Many people use online sites to track their travels nowadays. The idea is so that casual users – users that occasionally edit Wikivoyage but only ever so often, perhaps choose to use this travel tracker, then are immediately incentivised to update their travel maps after visiting somewhere new, hopefully also updating some actual articles in the process. The tool still has many teething issues, some that will take time to fix, but it's usable for the most part. Alongside Andree's [[Wikivoyage:Trip Planner|trip planner]], I hope this too can be added to the topbar. I'm also planning on perhaps creating a similar tool for US/Indian/Mexican/Brazilian states, depending on how things go. Any feedback/fixes appreciated and welcome. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:43, 9 April 2026 (UTC) :This works well for me at first glance! (I found one glitch, "Bosnia and Herzegovina" isn't shading for me.) It would be fun to have a way to note regions and cities as well, then I'd probably use it as a "Places I've visited"/"Articles I've worked on" section on my User Page. [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 16:28, 9 April 2026 (UTC) ::The glitch is unfortunately a long-standing property of kartographer - it here are too many regions, it may not display all of them. Also, sometimes the OSM data import breaks. E.g. Thailand shape is quite broken currently, too. -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 19:07, 9 April 2026 (UTC) :::Yeah for the first I've found usually just a hard cache solves that issue. OSM data import breaks yeah I have no idea how to fix that (similar issue with Singapore too). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:47, 9 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Created [[:phab:T422902]] for the Thailand/Singapore issue – seems to be a pretty widespread problem across WMF projects so I def think it's worth this getting looked into by more technical people than us. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:59, 10 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Also have given the tracker a little bit of a revamp in terms of style + few finishing touches (like a numerical counter). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:05, 10 April 2026 (UTC) :For some reason Q38 (Italy) was added twice for me, using purely the editor. Otherwise, nice work :-) -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 19:05, 9 April 2026 (UTC) ::Ah, I see the issue (Estonia mistakenly had the Wikidata item of Italy) – fixed! :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:51, 9 April 2026 (UTC) :::It's a fun tool. To make it more interesting, you could also provide an option to break it down by region (state, province, etc.) for the top ten countries by population or area. [[User:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">Gizza</span>]]^{(<i>[[User_talk:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">roam</span>]]</i>)} 03:23, 10 April 2026 (UTC) :I've added this tool to the topbar – should work in both vector 2010 and vector 2022, but not skins older than that. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:51, 12 April 2026 (UTC) :Wow, that feature works, on Temporary Accounts too. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 12:36, 12 April 2026 (UTC) ::Since temporary accounts only lasts for 90 days from initial creation, @[[User:~2026-69216-3|~2026-69216-3]] you may want to create an account soon because your current temporary account will expire by the end of this month. As for the tool itself, I noticed that your shaded countries don't show up on my end. On the broader picture, I propose that we limit this tool to registered accounts. Otherwise we will potentially have tonnes of abandoned Temporary Account map pages that people can't access after 3 months. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 04:45, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :::I'd go further and say that I don't think temporary accounts should be able to create userspace pages at all for the same reason you mention. Maybe I'll start a separate discussion for that sometime later. But yeah @[[User:~2026-69216-3|~2026-69216-3]] in your case, would recommend doing that (and then perhaps moving your map to your userspace under a registered account). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:17, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::::If they can't create a User: space page, then they'll have a harder time telling us some things that we want to know (ordinary user page content, like languages spoken), and they won't be able to create a sandbox for testing, which could lead to making more mistakes in the mainspace. ::::Also, at the moment, this is not a big problem. [https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Special:RecentChanges?userExpLevel=unregistered&hidebots=1&hidepageedits=1&hidecategorization=1&hideWikibase=1&hidelog=1&hidenewuserlog=1&namespace=2&limit=1000&days=30&urlversion=2 Almost none are being created], and [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?search=prefix%3AUser%3A~202&title=Special:Search&ns0=1 only 14 exist in total]. ::::When we reach the point of having, say, 100 or 500 or some other large number of such pages, I think we could have a generous deletion policy for User: pages, but I don't think we need a wholesale ban. By "generous", I mean that if it's more than, say, a year old and just test edits (or actually problematic in some way), then any admin should feel free to delete it. I do not mean that an admin marks their calendar to search and delete all User: pages because it just annoys the admin's sense of tidiness that ''those'' contributors were allowed to create pages in the User: space. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:41, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :::::Hmm that's true, you do have a point especially because "Draft:" isn't a namespace here. I'll try to think of how else we could solve that issue. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:52, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::That is okay to me. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 00:40, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::Still any particular reason why you haven't just created an account btw? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:42, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::::For me, I have a preference. I would rather edit as temporary user, other than creating the registered or named account. I do not plan to stick around as much in the future. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 20:32, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::::I didn't propose to restrict Temporary Accounts from creating any "User:" pages. I am only proposing restriction on TAs creating the "/visited" pages because they can't stick around past 90 days. From a technical standpoint, is there a way to display a message only to TAs that "hey, you can use this tool locally but if you want to truly save it or show it to friends, you need to register an account"? [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:06, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :I went to see if I could embed this on my main User page. Could you add an easy way to suppress the checkboxes, maybe by a flag on the VisitedMap template? Not only would that make this map embeddable, it would make it harder for me to check boxes on other people's pages! [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 21:14, 12 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Gerode|Gerode]]: You should be able to now embed this on your userpage (just by transcluding <nowiki>{{User:Gerode/Visited}}</nowiki>). Suppressing the checkboxes I've got planned, probably using the abuse filter (since there are ''some'' cases where I think it's okay and I'd rather a warn system over a complete disallow). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:36, 12 April 2026 (UTC) Is there a limit to how many countries the tracker can show? On [[User:Asamboi/Visited|my map]], a bunch of random countries (the UK, France, Spain, Philippines, Laos) are not showing up even though they're selected. [[User:Asamboi|Asamboi]] ([[User talk:Asamboi|talk]]) 03:12, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :Usually it's a cache issue – [[Special:Purge]] should do the trick (they appear for me on your map). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:39, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::I would recommend adding a "refresh" button which functions like it's a purge, with a line telling user to click on the refresh button if the map doesn't update or have countries missing. We can't expect new users to know a special page. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 13:49, 15 April 2026 (UTC) I like this idea (have always thought about it). It also pairs well with [[User:OhanaUnited/Edits around the world challenge|the world editing challenge]]. But at first save Australia and New Zealand weren't shaded until I refresh the page. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 04:35, 13 April 2026 (UTC) : Echoing other comments, this is a nice little gadget, I tried it out the other day. An idea for how to develop it further would be an additional layer for countries the user would like to visit (maybe in green or red?). In addition to Singapore which was mentioned above, also the main part of Morocco does not want to show up. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:26, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::So far I've fixed Thailand and HK on OSM. Singapore should be easy to fix, and I'll have to look into what's causing the issue for [[Serbia]] and [[Morocco]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:51, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :::SG now also fixed. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:05, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::: Uganda is not shown. --[[User:RolandUnger|RolandUnger]] ([[User talk:RolandUnger|talk]]) 05:39, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::::It seems to show for me – you might need to clear your cache or give it a refresh. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:45, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :::Serbia's mapping to Kosovo. Let's not start the next world war shall we? :) [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 17:20, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::::I [https://www.openstreetmap.org/changeset/181317764 tried] to fix it last night – ig a waiting game to see how long it'll take for this change to be mirrored here. :P //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:13, 15 April 2026 (UTC) :::::[https://www.openstreetmap.org/changeset/181357478#map=6/28.61/-9.16 And Morocco]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:32, 15 April 2026 (UTC) ::::{{re|OhanaUnited}} Both Serbia and Morocco now fixed. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:43, 16 April 2026 (UTC) :::::mexico, belize, panama, costa rica, Brazil, Argentina, Tunisia, Spain, Portugal (and probably a few more I have missed are not working for me). Is there a limit to how many you can add? [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 03:10, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::@[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] @[[User:Andree.sk|Andree.sk]] I debugged this some more and I am seeing a call to https://maps.wikimedia.org/geoshape?getgeojson for every single country in the map. So for 195 countries, the browser tries to open 195 concurrent or sequential connections. ::::::This architecture doesn't scale with our traffic and is currently triggering 429 requests which is likely why many of the countries are not showing for people. This also increases the risk that this feature could interfere with tools and other features on that site that may in future get rate limited. ::::::Can we look to get this fixed sometime next week, given this risk here? I suggest we use a single request with a pipe-separated or comma-separated list of Q-ids if that's possible or at minimum batch the queries with setTimeout and caching using mw.storage for subsequent requests. [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 19:35, 19 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::If it's possible to fix this, that would be appreciated (I'm not entirely sure how to make it such – I'm also a bit preoccupied this week and life irl has been quite hazy, but I'll give it a shot). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:08, 19 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::::I've tried batching [[Module:VisitedMap]] – does that perhaps solve some of the issues? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:14, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::::Yes! That seems to have done the trick! Thank you for the speedy fix! [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 04:20, 20 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::Awesome! Glad to know that works. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:24, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::Do you know the reason why the link to the travel map doesn't appear on Traveller's pub page? It shows up on all other pages (Wikivoyage namespace, mainspace, user page space, etc.) [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 17:02, 11 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::::I can see it in the 'usual spot' (under the user icon), but only when you scroll all the way up. When the icons transform into the 'top bar', the submenu doesn't contain the entry. -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 19:30, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::::::::This is on vector 2022 I take it? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:40, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :New bug I've noticed, once again with the Kartographer extension: for some reason, Germany and the Netherlands don't show up for anyone, but it works perfectly fine using {{tl|mapshape}}. I took a cursory look and there was nothing I could really pinpoint that was causing this issue, so maybe a phabricator task is needed? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:57, 31 May 2026 (UTC) ::Interesting, the issue seems to have fixed itself overnight. Kartographer is weird man... //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:27, 1 June 2026 (UTC) == Bug: Creating new listings with tool drops wikidata tag == Replicable bug: if you create a new listing, and add something to the `wikidata` element, it gets dropped when you save. Is there an open bug for this? Or can somebody point me at the source code? [[User:Asamboi|Asamboi]] ([[User talk:Asamboi|talk]]) 03:15, 13 April 2026 (UTC) :probably a question for @[[User:Andyrom75|Andyrom75]] or @[[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] at [[Wikivoyage:Listing_editor]] -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 07:14, 13 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Asamboi|Asamboi]], I'm not sure I got your point. In [[Plovdiv]] I've created a new listing as a test with Wikidata field duly filled. It worked (then I removed it). Could you please check it and let me know what I misunderstood? Thanks, [[User:Andyrom75|<span style="color:#BB0000; font-family:Papyrus; font-size:12px">'''Andyrom75'''</span>]] ([[User talk:Andyrom75|talk]]) 12:55, 13 April 2026 (UTC) == FYI: Guide.world collection of travel guides == https://guide.world/ —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 19:31, 14 April 2026 (UTC) :Odd that it mentions Wikipedia but not Wikivoyage… [[User:HyperAnd|HyperAnd]] ([[User talk:HyperAnd|talk]]) 20:48, 14 April 2026 (UTC) ::It links to guides by one author 21 times, and another gets 7 links. I wouldn't regard it as a neutral list, and it may deliberately avoid listing worldwide guides - the major commercial guides also don't get a mention. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:42, 14 April 2026 (UTC) == New Nigeria Expedition? == There seems to be an influx of new Nigeria articles. Is this related to any known event, or another event in violation of the [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers|event organizer]] policy? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:52, 17 April 2026 (UTC) :It looks like 21 new articles were posted. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:40, 17 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Bigcee007|User:Bigcee007]], @[[User:Viva33|User:Viva33]], @[[User:Ngozi scholar Okafor|Ngozi scholar Okafor]], @[[User:Celetex|User:Celetex]], @[[User:Senator Choko|User:Senator Choko]], @[[User:OGA Goody|User:OGA Goody]], @[[User:Adakaibe|User:Adakaibe]] (and please read [[WV:Naming conventions#Disambiguation]], which is not done in the same style on this site as on Wikipedia), @[[User:Akwugo|User:Akwugo]], @[[User:Chikwas|User:Chikwas]], @[[User:IfyClassique|User:IfyClassique]], @[[User:Bigkotech|User:Bigkotech]], @[[User:Nneka Ibeanu|User:Nneka Ibeanu]], @[[User:Ennydavids|User:Ennydavids]]: Can you all tell us what is going on and link the organizing page for us? Who trained you in how to edit on Wikivoyage? Thanks. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:39, 17 April 2026 (UTC) :::...and {{ping|Goodymeraj}} who posted a block appeal on behalf of someone else on my talk page. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:42, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Good morning sir. I posted the appeal. We are currently on a project of visibilizing some Nigerian communities on Wikivoyage. The users you mentioned and tagged above are part of the exercise. Bigcee007 is one of them. That's why I'm appealing on his behalf. Thank you so much [[User:Goodymeraj|Goodymeraj]] ([[User talk:Goodymeraj|talk]]) 05:52, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::@[[User:Goodymeraj|Goodymeraj]], please answer the questions we've asked you. Also, importantly, have you read [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers]]? If not, read it right away! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:54, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::Please which other questions did you ask that I've not answered. And yes, I read the Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers [[User:Goodymeraj|Goodymeraj]] ([[User talk:Goodymeraj|talk]]) 05:58, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::And when did you inform us about this event prior to it happening and solicit our advice and collaboration? Read and answer the questions in this thread. I see no reason to repost them. They are in the first and third posts in this thread. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:53, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::{{re|Goodymeraj}}...so it was you behind this expedition? What do you mean you've read the event organizers policy, but then failed to do ''every'' single step listed on that page? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:33, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::We have to decide what to do about this; by all appearances, it's exactly what the event organizers policy is supposed to prevent, and everyone involved is so far evading all our questions. Should we be asking right now whether all of the edits should be reverted and all the participants should be blocked, or is the more salient question whether the organizer should be banned? Our policy is either in force or it's a dead letter, so it's important for us to figure out the best course of action and take it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 15:31, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::: Can everyone please calm down a bit? I can see why Ikan asks the questions above, but I definitely do not think we should answer yes to either of them. Both the organiser & the participants appear to be acting in good faith, so heavy-handed measures should be avoided if possible. ::::: A lot of our coverage of Africa is quite weak & we definitely want contributions from new users with local knowledge. Yes, the inevitable new user blunders are irritating, but nothing that cannot be dealt with. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 16:11, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::It's the eternal paradox of the new editors: Newbies are 'expensive', but the community will die without them. ::::::As we discussed months ago at [[Wikivoyage talk:Welcome, event organizers#A draft of a substitute for the text on this page]] I'm not convinced that banning organizers is the right choice, especially on a "first offense", when we can't know whether they read the page ''before'' the event. ::::::I do think these articles need improving. Picking one at random, [[Igbo-Ukwu]] is a site of archaeological significance. The population is around 75,000, so it's the kind of place we probably ought to have an article on. It would be nice to have information added to this article (e.g., hotels, restaurants, [https://igboukwu.org/festivals/ several festivals]), but I'm not sad that we have five sentences instead of zero. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:15, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::People acting in good faith would answer our questions. The silence in reply to them is deafening. We need answers ASAP. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:02, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::{{re|Ikan Kekek}} I'd personally ban the organizer for both failing to adhere to the event organizer policy, and also blatantly lying about having read the page. Maybe I'd give a 24–48-hour grace period (from the time of your message), because any longer and that just increases the workload for everyone else trying to clean their mess. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:21, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::And also for playing dumb ("Please which other questions did you ask that I've not answered") and refusing to answer any of the questions at the top of the thread. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:28, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::::You're assuming there actually was "an" organizer (possible, but not certain) and that the group didn't get together for fun and decide at the last minute to edit Wikivoyage instead of Wikipedia. If so, I'm sure they won't make that mistake again, after this [[WV:FUN]] reaction. Consider: :::::::* "Have you read [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, event organizers]]? If not, read it right away!" :::::::And then when the person did read it, you react like they should have traveled back in time to implement it retroactively: :::::::* "What do you mean you've read the event organizers policy, but then failed to do ''every'' single step listed on that page?" :::::::I think this is the most important question that's been asked so far: :::::::* Can everyone please calm down a bit? :::::::[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:47, 20 April 2026 (UTC) == Sign language phrasebooks == Would it be appropriate to make sign language phrasebooks? Such languages are actually in use, especially in places that have concentrated deaf communities, unlike say, Latin. [[User:HyperAnd|HyperAnd]] ([[User talk:HyperAnd|talk]]) 21:10, 17 April 2026 (UTC) :Absolutely! How would you do it? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:40, 17 April 2026 (UTC) ::Now that's the tricky part. Most of the notation used to write sign languages aren't very readable to an average traveller. We could simply just use video, but video isn't very editable for a wiki, so it should be supplemented with written notation if possible. The most promising notation I see are [[wikt:Appendix:Sign language entry names|Wiktionary's notation]] and [[w:SignWriting]]. Wiktionary's notation doesn't use hard-to-understand symbols, but it's non-visual. SignWriting is very visual, but we need to enable a gadget to render it because most devices can't handle 2D arrangement of text. The gadget is [[mw:Extension:SignWriting MediaWiki Plugin]], but unfortunately it's largely unmaintained. Here's the gadget implemented on [[incubator:Wp/ase|ASL Wikipedia in the incubator]] if you want to see how it looks (though it doesn't render on the mobile skin). [[User:HyperAnd|HyperAnd]] ([[User talk:HyperAnd|talk]]) 00:37, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::My feeling is, if it can be useful to travelers, do it. I think video and pictures are most useful. I couldn't make head or tails of the ASL symbols, but is it important for travelers to know them? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:59, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::My take: for most travelers, probs not – but I can see these phrasebooks being useful in the odd situation and I don't see an issue with sign language phrasebooks if someone is willing to create them and make such phrasebook useful. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:05, 18 April 2026 (UTC) :::::Well, many deaf and hard of hearing people read and edit websites, and there are various different sign languages, so I think sign language "phrasebooks" would be very useful to that segment of our readership and also people with keen hearing who want to communicate with them. The difficulty, if anything, is that these would be primarily video or picture phrasebooks, but the concept is the same and the need is clear. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 08:18, 18 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::I think sign language phrasebooks would be welcome, but I do see practical difficulties. I understand that there are several English based sign languages: American Sign Language, British Sign Language, New Zealand Sign Language etc which may be difficult for sign users. The phrasebook would need to be illustrated with photos (or drawings) unless we change [[Wikivoyage:Image policy]] to allow short videos in this exceptional case. I don't think wiki editing of a video is an issue if videos are kept short (less than 10 seconds) so editing is done by uploading a replacement, as with photos. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 21:07, 19 April 2026 (UTC) == New user problems == The project certainly needs new users, especially in areas where our coverage is weak. On the other hand, new users often do various problematic things because they naturally are not familiar with local policies & conventions. Overall, I think the old hands here do a reasonable job of correcting problems, welcoming people & pointing out issues, though there are times when some of the regulars need a reminder of [[Wikivoyage:Keep Wikivoyage fun]] and [[Wikivoyage_talk:Welcome,_copyeditors#Discouraging New Wikivoyage Editors|don't bite the newbies]]. I also think most new users do quite well at learning & adapting. Are there ways we could improve this? We point new users to [[Wikivoyage:Tips for new contributors]]; does that need improvements ([[Wikivoyage_talk:Tips_for_new_contributors#Reorganize]])? What about [[Template:Welcome]]? In particular, should the template text be shortened, deleting things that duplicate parts of the Tips page? There are things we could do in software, but should we? Make the signup software display a link to Tips? Have the software that creates user pages automatically add the template? Have a bot that looks for empty "User talk:" pages & drops the template on them? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 11:49, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :Would you like to propose any specific edits? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:27, 20 April 2026 (UTC) :About making [[Special:CreateAccount]] display a link to Tips: How many of our first-time editors are creating a new account here? I believe that many of our contributors already have accounts from Wikipedia or Commons. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:39, 20 April 2026 (UTC) == Summer of Wikivoyage in Albania and Kosovo 2026 == Hi everyone, just a quick note to share that the [[M:Wikimedians of Albanian Language User Group|Wikimedians of Albanian Language User Group]] will be organizing the Summer of Wikivoyage Edit-a-thon 2026 on May 8–9. This year, we are focusing on [[Kukës]], Albania, and other travel destinations in Albania and Kosovo in English language. There will be an offline event, and everyone is also welcome to join online on Saturday from 10:00–17:00 (GMT+2) on [https://meet.jit.si/WoALUG here]. See you there! Thank you! [[User:Vyolltsa|Vyolltsa]] ([[User talk:Vyolltsa|talk]]) 15:21, 21 April 2026 (UTC) :Awesome, and thanks for the notice! I look forward to working with the group. The edit-a-thons on Albania and Kosovo are always done well. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:46, 21 April 2026 (UTC) ::@[[User:Vyolltsa|Vyolltsa]], thanks again! ::@[[User:Ruhan.paco|Ruhan.paco]], @[[User:Enarda Muhadri|Enarda Muhadri]] and @[[User:ErgisaHoxha|ErgisaHoxha]], welcome, and thanks for adding information! ::There are three things I want to call your attention to: ::(1) Default address information (starting with the name of the town, if it's the same as the article title) is not included in addresses on this site. ::(2) The "directions" tab in listings is a place for a parenthetical phrase (so no sentences) and includes only things like cross streets and if someplace is directly across the street or down the block from a huge landmark like the main railway station. ::(3) Wikivoyage does not approve of stating in any listing that anyplace is "near" x or y, because that is vague though possibly promotional and usually not worth noting if an address - and even better, [[WV:Geocoding|geocoordinates]] - are provided. ::@[[User:MegiNnnnn|MegiNnnnn]], some of your edits have another, more basic issue addressed by [[User:Ground Zero]] on your user talk page: a lack of information. All listings must include street addresses, geocoding (latitude/longitude) or at least some kind of way for readers to find them, and if at all possible, contact information, too. ::I hope I didn't leave anyone out. Please feel free to share these words of advice among your collaborators! ::All my best, ::[[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 09:57, 9 May 2026 (UTC) :::I'm not going to name names here, but I had to delete a listing for [[WV:DT|touting]] and obviously copying and pasting from a promotional site in violation of [[Wikivoyage:Copyleft]]. Don't do that. And also, please use [[WV:Listings]] templates for all specific listings (not general activities like fishing, though). [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:06, 9 May 2026 (UTC) ::::Welcome to @[[User:Ledion Aga|Ledion Aga]], @[[User:MrsNora|MrsNora]], @[[User:MrsHajrie|MrsHajrie]], @[[User:Marigen Kovaçi|Marigen Kovaçi]], and please look over this subthread. I may have left someone out. Is there a complete list of participants somewhere? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:11, 9 May 2026 (UTC) ::Some of the contributors may not able to understand your comments without our support. Please give us some time to clean up. Here is the full list of [https://outreachdashboard.wmflabs.org/courses/WoALUG/Wikivoyage_Kuk%C3%ABs_2026/home edits from the participants]. Thank you for your understanding! [[User:Arianit|Arianit]] ([[User talk:Arianit|talk]]) 16:14, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :::Sure thing. Thanks for all you do! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 16:46, 11 May 2026 (UTC) == Wiki Loves Bangla 2026 has started, Join Now! == <div style="padding:15px; font-size:120%; line-height:1.6; margin:10px 0; border:2px solid #c90023; background-color:#FFFFFF;color:var(--color-base-fixed,#202122); border-radius:8px;"> [[File:Wiki Loves Bangla wordmark logo-en.svg|right|100px|frameless|link=Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2025]] Hello, We are excited to announce that [[c:Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2026/en|Wiki Loves Bangla 2026]] has started! This year’s theme focuses on '''Bengal festivals''', inviting participants to capture and share images and videos of the diverse cultural celebrations across Bengal. '''[[c:Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla|Wiki Loves Bangla]]''' is an international photography contest on Wikimedia Commons aimed at documenting Bengali culture and heritage worldwide. It is organised annually as part of the [[meta:Bangla Culture and Heritage Collation Program|Bangla Culture and Heritage Collation Program]], with a dedicated theme each year. '''How You Can Participate''', it's easy and simple, and every upload contributes to the world's largest free knowledge repository: [[File:পাতি মাছরাঙ্গা (Alcedo atthis), জাতীয় উদ্ভিদ উদ্যান ঢাকা.jpg|thumb|right|200px|link=Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2025|Winning image from Wiki Loves Bangla 2025. ''Attribution: [[User:Ashraf747|Ashraf747]] / [[CreativeCommons:by-sa/4.0|CC BY-SA 4.0]]'']] * '''Capture''': Take photos or videos of Bengal festivals. * '''Upload''': Share your files to Wikimedia Commons between '''14 April and 15 May 2026'''. * '''Win''': A total of '''USD 1,100''' in prizes. Ready to get started? [https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:UploadWizard&uselang=bn&campaign=Wlbangla Click here to upload your media], or visit the [[Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2026/en|main project page]] for full details. Your contributions help document and preserve Bengal’s rich cultural heritage for the world. For any questions, email us or join our [https://t.me/WikiLovesBangla Telegram group]. Warm regards,<br> '''Wiki Loves Bangla Team'''. <nowiki>#WikiLovesBangla</nowiki> </div> [[User:Moheen|<span style="text-shadow:#8b9dc3 3px 3px 2px;"><span style="font family:'All Things Pink'" color="#3b5998"><b>~ Moheen</b></span></span>]] [[User Talk:Moheen|^{(keep talking)}]] 20:50, 21 April 2026 (UTC) :I hope the event is a smashing success! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:36, 22 April 2026 (UTC) ::Seconded, would be even more amazing if some of those photos submitted can be used in some of our articles here. Either way, all the best, [[User:Moheen|Moheen]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:52, 22 April 2026 (UTC) == Abolishing the see, do, eat and drink sections of region articles == {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Outline regions}} – that's the number of outline region articles there are at present. Out of {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Region articles}}. That puts the number of outline region articles at about 68%, as of writing this message. A majority of articles you'll stumble across will have no content in either the see, do, eat and drink sections, and it's very explainable: writing content in most region articles is a fairly time-consuming exercise whilst simultaneously also being one of the least read sections. In most cases, we want people to focus more on the understand, get in and get around sections for region articles rather than things to see or do, let alone eat/drink (which should really be mostly covered by individual city/park articles). My solution is rather simple: remove the see, do, eat and drink sections as mandatory headings for outline and usable articles (but they should be a requirement for guide and star articles) so the site can have a bit of a more polished look. This site has had over 20 years to prove that these sections have been useful, and they haven't. I'm aware this is a bit different to all our other categories of articles, but regions are a bit of a unique case in that a) we don't list individual listings on region pages and b) the see, do, eat and drink sections provide so little value in a majority of cases. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:10, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :I thought eat, drink and sleep were already optional for region articles. See and do shouldn't be optional. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:33, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::Sleep is, but not eat/drink per [[Wikivoyage:Region article template]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:38, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :::Let's make eat and drink optional, but I disagree with making see and do optional. There needs to be a summary of things or at least types of things to see and do in a region for it to be really usable. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:11, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::::That's fair I suppose –&nbsp;I don't feel too strongly about see/do so I'm fine with just eat/drink if that's what we all want. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:12, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :::::We might want to have a discussion on the [[Wikivoyage talk:Region article template]] page to make it official, don't you think? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:23, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::All that this can achieve is to make the metrics look a bit better, by lowering the quality threshold for a regional page to be considered "usable" – a bar that is already set low. Scrappy uninformative pages will remain scrappy and uninformative, not worth reading. :::::: ::::::“Overhang” is the term I use for regional pages that remain outline even though their constituent pages are of good standard. My guess is that these are few, do we have any numbers about that? If (as seems likely) the outline regions mostly have outline cities, parks etc then it’s sensible to put the effort into the latter. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 17:50, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::Probably should've started the discussion there, but I think for such a major high-profile change I'd prefer the pub as the venue of discussion over [[Wikivoyage talk:Region article template]]. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:29, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :I wonder how often we have a regional article without usable articles below it. I have occasionally added attractions to a regional article because there was no 'city' article to stick it in. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 20:52, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::Personally I think that's fine tbh – though I suppose in those cases that's where the question of whether a rural area article is more favorable arises. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:38, 23 April 2026 (UTC) Agree with whoever said make it optional. I agree that most of the time they would be unnecessary but there are enough corner cases. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 21:06, 23 April 2026 (UTC) I agree that region articles should have See and Do, and we should work towards filling those in, rather than removing them. Eat and Drink are useful, and exist in some region articles, but it does seem unlikely that we will be able to expand those any time soon. They should be optional, and removed if empty. I don't think Sleep should be in region articles at all. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:19, 23 April 2026 (UTC) : Although [[Hebrides|here]] is an example of a useful Sleep section in a region article. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:33, 23 April 2026 (UTC) ::Regions should have See and Do, and can usefully have Buy, Eat, Drink or Sleep. Unfortunately you usually need to know a region well to provide complete content in any of these sections. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:03, 23 April 2026 (UTC) :::Nicely put, AlasdairW. A really good Region SHOULD have Buy, Eat, Drink and Sleep sections that provide a high-level overview (similar to the Hberides article that Ground Zero cited. I agree that listings generally don't belong in Region articles (unless there isn't an appropriate city article for it). I'm okay with having all those sections be optional for regions, but feel strongly that they should be REQUIRED for a region article to become Guide or Star. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 17:52, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::::This has prompted me to expedite the outline regions on my "to do" list, and for starters [[Hebrides]] (cited above, and already usable) was missing Eat and Drink. Quickly sorted. Three more can be done soon, improving the metrics by just under 0.1%. If we all put our shoulder to the wheel this problem will be swiftly fettled. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 10:28, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :::::'''Actual requirements''': The cited [[Wikivoyage:region article template|region article template]] (at least since before [[Special:Permalink/4786171|10 Dec]]) says about these four sections (the last sentence of each): "If there isn't anything to say about the region's [whatever] that isn't already covered by the descriptions in the Regions/Cities/Other destinations sections, or in the Understand section, then this section can be omitted." :::::For usable, "the most prominent attractions [must be] identified with directions"; for guide, there must be "information on multiple attractions and things to do". The [[[[Special:Permalink/994173|region article status]] page doesn't require the sections under discussion to exist, for any status. :::::I indeed think one needs to say something about the most prominent attractions of a region before the page can be seen as usable. Also having Eat, Drink, See and Do sections in the template is reasonable, as that should make the editor think about what usable could be said about cuisine, nightlife and attractions. For some regions, what needs to be said is already in the city listings or in Understand, making the separate sections redundant. That's fine. :::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 14:11, 25 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::So to clean up region articles for regions you know: think whether there is something region-specific to say about the four subjects, check whether it is already said in other sections and either put content in the empty sections or remove them. If you are not sure about some section for some region, just leave those section headers for somebody else to make the decision. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 14:16, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :So 3 weeks later...I take it that there's general support for making eat/drink optional, but keeping see and do. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:45, 18 May 2026 (UTC) ::Maybe we should allow usable region articles to refer the reader to a larger region (or the country/state) article for information on eat, drink and sleep. That leaves the section in place, so any region specifics are more easily added. So if [[Hebrides]] didn't have anything to say for sleep, it would say "See [[Scotland#Sleep]]". [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 12:00, 18 May 2026 (UTC) :::Have you checked the guideline I linked? Is there something in it you would like to change? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:24, 18 May 2026 (UTC) ::::In the Eat and Drink sections of [[Wikivoyage:Region article template]], replace "then this section can be omitted" with "provide a link to a this section in a a bigger region (which could be the country)". [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 19:31, 18 May 2026 (UTC) :::::Do we need sections that only have that link? Can't it just be included in context in Understand or even be regarded as implicit – the country's cuisine is usually described in the country article and in the absence of an eat section I assume readers would consult the country article without any pointer? In the case where nightlife is concentrated to one of the region's cities (not too uncommon), that can be said in the city's bullet as well as in Understand. :::::Of course, ''if'' we want that section, we can include such a sentence in Drink. But I think one-sentence sections are ugly, they look incomplete, and may attract tries at saying something, often resulting in pointless or redundant text, and perhaps listings that belong elsewhere. :::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:09, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::In cases like [[Greater Lyon]] and [[Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes]], the later of which has an extensive Eat section, it may of course be worthwhile to point out at which level of regions that description is to be found. If the region is indeed "capital of French gastronomy", then the section should probably not be omitted – there ought to be something to say. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:16, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::My thoughts are mostly with LPfi's – it should generally be implied with our region structure, not that I think many people often read the eat/drink ections in the first place. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:04, 19 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::I'm surprised you don't think they do. I would tend to think they would, as food is one of the most interesting things to many travellers and people generally. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:27, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::It ''should'' be the case, but generally I (and a few people I've talked to irl about) find most eat/drink sections to be far too lacking to actually bother reading when many better sources exist online. Even when it comes to listings, it's not all that often I actually consult Wikivoyage for places to eat or drink, and nowhere near the same level as I do for see/do. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:49, 19 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::::I'd distinguish between listings for specific eateries and descriptions of a local cuisine. I'm always interested in reading the latter, especially if it's well written and a good read. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:59, 19 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::::Hmm true, you have a point there. I do suppose that eat/drink sections of country articles (and also major region articles, like [[Quebec]]) tend to be a ''lot'' more useful than say the eat/drink sections of say [[South Central Iowa]] (which, in my opinion, can be safely removed). //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:26, 20 May 2026 (UTC) :::I'd rather see something like "As with most of Scotland, self-catering cottages, camping, and bed-and-breakfast inns are available in the Hebrides" (customizing the text to whatever is most relevant). There could be a link on the opening phrase to [[Scotland#Sleep]]. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:26, 18 May 2026 (UTC) == Digital life in China == Hello from China. I wrote [https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/User:Brycehughes/Staying_connected_in_China this]. It is meant to be what I wish I had read before I went to China. I learned the hard way; I hope others don't have to (especially now that China is opening up re visa-free access). I am seeking some advice: 1) Is this appropriate for a standalone article? 2) If yes, then what template to use and also how to title it? 3) If no, then should I integrate it into China or just junk it? Basically I'd like your help in what to do with this. Any advice appreciated, thanks. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 15:25, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :I think your write-up is valuable and practical, and I think the topic is too big to fit in [[China#Connect]]. I like your current title or [[Internet access in China]], to match the [[Internet access|general article]]. [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 15:55, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::I agree with your assessment. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:09, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :::Me too. [[User:GrinningIodize|GrinningIodize]] ([[User talk:GrinningIodize|talk]]) 18:51, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :Yes, this article is valuable, especially as it has radically changed my attitude towards China as a whole. I was blocked at English Wikipedia back in 2021 for my blind hate towards China and Chinese, for which I have apologized repeatedly. And now, your article has sparked my curiosity towards that very country, its culture and people. It should be titled [[Internet access in China]], as suggested by Gerode above. Thank you for writing this and also changing my mind for good. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 16:47, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::Hey, glad I could change your mind. Not sure how this article did it but whatever works. I've traveled to a few countries at this point and one thing I always notice is everybody basically wants to just get the kids to school on time, etc. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) :::Sing it, brother. Getting the kids a good education, and taking care of the aging parents is universal. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 17:20, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::::In the west, taking care of aging parents is less? In India they die in your house. Dunno. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:35, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :::::I remember having tea with a guy in Isfahan. After we talked politics for a while, we ended up talking eldercare. He wanted to move to Tehran for career reasons. He was younger than me, but I have been through it in Toronto. The issues were similar. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:26, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::::::I'd say still way more socially accepted in the west to send your aging parents to a nursing home than it is outside the west. As someone who's culturally from a non-western background, sadly not uncommon to witness drama with extended family when it comes to these sorts of matters. :( //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:49, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :Sounds like I can keep the title, link at the [[China]] article. Technical stuff e.g. what templates to add can be done by more savvy people later. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:37, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::Also it is a silly banner image but these things make me laugh. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:38, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::Done and done. Please feel free to add proper templates to [[Staying connected in China|the article]] anyone so it's well fitted in the tree. Thanks, [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:44, 24 April 2026 (UTC) ::[[Staying connected in China|Staying connected in China]]. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 17:58, 24 April 2026 (UTC) :Ooh this is a good topic – I've read about advice on this here and there on Reddit, but never a full comprehensive guide. Nice work on this! //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:44, 24 April 2026 (UTC) I wonder if we should cover bringing burner phones/devices in this page. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 06:24, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :Certainly could, although my target for the article was more the I-want-to-watch-YouTube crowd as opposed to the I-want-privacy crowd. Could have a section on privacy I suppose. (Somewhat ironically, I have a burner phone, but I bought it for entering the USA.) [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 07:48, 25 April 2026 (UTC) ::I think [[burner phones]] could be an entirely separate travel topic, since China isn't the only place where such advice would be applicable. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:08, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :::Many people need burner laptops, but perhaps that's different enough to be handled in [[Computers]]. I assume that what needs to be said (and can be kept up to date) can be said on a screenful or two, so wouldn't make that article too long. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 14:26, 25 April 2026 (UTC) It looks a useful article. If you know, it would be worth adding a note saying how much this applies to Hong Kong or Macau. The Great Firewall may be less active there, but it has been 7 years since I was last in Hong Kong. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 09:52, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :Same boat as you... I haven't been to Hong Kong since 2017. If anyone knows feel free to add. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 10:57, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :Well, the Great Firewall applies mainly to mainland China, and HK and Macau don't face such restrictions AFAIK. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 13:36, 25 April 2026 (UTC) ::Yes, I can back that up. I have friends in Shenzhen who often head over to Hong Kong because it's more convenient for accessing the open internet. [[User:ShuaiXuesheng|ShuaiXuesheng]] ([[User talk:ShuaiXuesheng|talk]]) 14:44, 25 April 2026 (UTC) :::The Great Firewall does not apply to Hong Kong. You can still freely use Wikipedia, Facebook, Whatsapp, Telegram and YouTube. Can't comment on Macau but I would imagine it's the same thing. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 16:25, 1 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I think the only risk with Hong Kong is that during political crises the CCP can lean on the HK government to restrict access. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 08:04, 2 May 2026 (UTC) == Request for comment (global AI policy) == <bdi lang="en" dir="ltr" class="mw-content-ltr">A [[:m:Requests for comment/Artificial intelligence policy|request for comment]] is currently being held to decide on a global AI policy. {{int:Feedback-thanks-title}}<br>[[User:MediaWiki message delivery|MediaWiki message delivery]] ([[User talk:MediaWiki message delivery|talk]]) 00:58, 26 April 2026 (UTC)</bdi> <!-- Message sent by User:Codename Noreste@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=30424282 --> :Finally! //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:20, 26 April 2026 (UTC) ::I don't think this proposal is the best the movement can do. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 03:52, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :::I agree and stated as much in comments at the link. Why don't we adopt a local policy that _any_ use of AI, very much including for "basic copy editing" and machine translation, must be disclosed? I'd be willing to tolerate spellcheck and grammar check if those are considered AI, but nothing else should be accepted without disclosure (or at all, if I had my druthers). We don't want people's writing style to be chucked in favor of bots. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 08:50, 26 April 2026 (UTC) ::::Hence why I supported the opt-out policy. It might not be bad on this wiki where there is an active community to clean up after AI use, but I'm in the midst of a weeks-long effort of cleaning up after someone who mass-spammed AI translations of Interlingua (see [[m:Steward_requests/Miscellaneous/2026-03#h-Mass_machine_translations/AI-generated_pages-Manual_requests-20260317184400|this]]), which I've been slacking on a bit, but the whole mass translations are absolutely disruptive and something I'd never want to see again. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:25, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :Great! We now have a policy about AI, globally. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 08:12, 26 April 2026 (UTC) ::No, we don't. And even if they pass, we need to write our own. What bothers me about "disclosure" is that it adds deadweight to affected edits, especially when the edit itself is minor. Can a label be used for the purpose? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 11:51, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] Sure, a label can be used for the purpose. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 23:29, 27 April 2026 (UTC) :I oppose AI's use on the travel guide. [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 15:32, 26 April 2026 (UTC) :: Would you allow photos, where some obstruction has been removed by an AI tool? What about finding sources when researching some off destination? May I use AI to construct a table or diagram? May my dyslectic friend have an AI point out possible spelling errors? May one use a voice-to-text AI if typing is difficult because of that accident? :: As AI is getting common, restrictions on its use will interfere with established workflows of some, soon many, contributors. Thus we need to identify the things we absolutely don't want done with AI or assisted by AI, and those where AI assistance isn't a problem. :: –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 12:58, 27 April 2026 (UTC) :::I oppose all of AI's use as far as LLMs are concerned, but for researching off wiki you can't control that, and it is helpful. AI shouldn't be used to construct a table or diagram. A dyslexic person may use it to use this voice to text typing, :::I think they should make the wording more specific and inclusive for this new regulation. :::Thanks, [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 18:18, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :::I would be fine on all of them, as long as these are legitimate uses. But for GenAI, it should not replace jobs from real workers. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 06:16, 30 April 2026 (UTC) == Changes to autoconfirmed requirements from next week == For those not following the tech news, [[:phab:T418484]] will be a pretty important update for how autoconfirmed is configured on all wikis. Namely, to quote the tech news: {{blockquote|There is a new change in how new users are autoconfirmed that will improve anti-vandalism protection. Currently, users who have had an account for a few days and made a few edits are automatically added to the Autoconfirmed users group. This configuration tends to be exploited by some vandals, who create accounts and start to use them only after some time. To mitigate this, the configuration will be updated next week so that – for the purpose of becoming autoconfirmed – the account age will be counted from their first edit, instead of registration date. The numeric value of the age threshold will remain the same. This change will be deployed only to wikis which require at least one edit as part of the autoconfirmation conditions.}} I've made the change to [[Wikivoyage:Autoconfirmed users]] accordingly, but I do think this is a change that should be more widely announced to the community. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:12, 27 April 2026 (UTC) :Seems like a good change. Thanks for amending the page, but I think the people for whom the knowledge is essential are quite few over here, and I assume most of them check the pub (or the technical news), so I wouldn't be worried about somebody missing it. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:49, 28 April 2026 (UTC) ::I trust that this works. A few years ago I had trouble with a vandal who had been blocked. His modus perandi was to create a new account, make a dozen or so reasonable edits (not difficult to do - a typo here, a grammatical correction there) and then he started harrassing me. [[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 16:09, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :::I think this will have little effect on long-term abusers. If the current pattern is "create account, wait 4 days, make a dozen reasonable, non-block-worthy edits, and then start harassing", then the only think that changes is the order of the elements: "create account, make a dozen reasonable, non-block-worthy edits, wait 4 days, and then start harassing". [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 02:40, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::::It still does prevent getting autoconfirmed while doing a series of block-worthy edits, with no preceding good or neutral ones. I assume some abusers don't move over to the new strategy. (And this also has no effect one those doing just one edit per account – if it helps against some abusers, then it is good.) The downside is that somebody who registered an account for reading and now does a few edits doesn't immediately become autoconfirmed. I don't think they expect that, so it is no big deal. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:29, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::::At present there are very few LTAs that follow this pattern – and I'd say because most LTAs are not bright enough to have the capability of making good edits in the first place. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:38, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :Good change as well, I support this change. Vandalism is rife. [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 18:21, 28 April 2026 (UTC) == Scriptbooks == We have various foreign-language phrasebooks covered at [[phrasebooks]]. However, there's only one article that isn't about language but about a writing system, and that is [[Learning Devanagari]], a "scriptbook". The very existence of such a "scriptbook" means there could be scriptbooks on Cyrillic or Perso-Arabic. However, the [[Cyrillic]] articles are deleted and salted for being "out of scope". So, should scriptbooks exist on Wikivoyage at all, or be migrated elsewhere (like Wikibooks or Wikiversity)? '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:13, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :As far as I know, travellers are more likely to talk to locals than reading scripts, especially as written languages can be translated with the translation services on your phone. Probably that's why we have so many phrasebooks and only one "scriptbook". Of course, there are obscure writing systems that translation services can't parse, and phrasebooks of respective languages are enough to cover such cases (since only one or few languages would use such obscure scripts). '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:17, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :: There are downsides to pointing your smartphone at every sign you want to read. For Cyrillic, learning the letters isn't too hard, so anybody travelling to Russia (or Ukraine) should try. On the other hand, the alphabets could easily be explained in the phrasebooks, with remarks on pronunciation in context, so I don't think a scriptbook is warranted – but neither do I think it should be salted. :: Devanagari is more complex, and the ligature are not very intuitive for most English speakers. I think that included the content of that article into half a dozen individual phrasebooks wouldn't be a good alternative. How to handle the writing system is a judgement call and I wouldn't rule out other scriptbooks, although I cannot remind me any writing system for which I would recommend that solution. :: –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:43, 28 April 2026 (UTC) :I agree that while phrasebooks are useful for travelers, scriptbooks might be valuable, particularly for complex writing systems. They could be a good resource, especially for those not easily translated by phone apps. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 15:20, 30 April 2026 (UTC) == Error on my own page == Got this message on an edit I tried to make on MY OWN userpage: ''Unfortunately, this action has been automatically identified as harmful, and therefore disallowed.'' ''If you believe your action was constructive, please leave a message on the [[Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub|travellers' pub]]. In your message, state what you were trying to do and the title of the page you were trying to edit.'' ''A brief description of the abuse rule which your action matched is: <u>Unregistered or New user blanking someone else's user or user talk page</u>'' Here is my abuse log for confirmation<br>[https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:AbuseLog&wpSearchUser=ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor+%28alt%29 https://fr.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:AbuseLog&wpSearchUser=ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor+%28alt%29] What? It's my page! Wdym? [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 12:57, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :{{ping|SHB2000}} created an anti-spam filter (#66) that seems to be catching you. Maybe they can help. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:06, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::Okay. Thanks. [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 13:07, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::66 is flag-only (mainly so it can get picked up by [[m:SWViewer|SWViewer]]), seems to be 35 that's catching your edits – the main issue here seems to be that your account isn't autoconfirmed. I've given you confirmed perms since your other account is already autoconfirmed which should hopefully stop the filter from disallowing your edits. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:14, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :::Thank you! [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 13:18, 29 April 2026 (UTC) ::::It was filter 35 that was the culprit. It seems the error was my fault: I used a construction that didn't work as expected. I am sorry. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 16:48, 29 April 2026 (UTC) :::::It is all good! [[User:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)]] ([[User talk:ThatEquatorialGuineaEditor (alt)|talk]]) 02:13, 30 April 2026 (UTC) == FTT icon no longer displaying == Does anyone else see this same issue of no FTT icon appearing? Take a look at the pagebanner on [[common scams]] or [[Hamad International Airport]] for what I mean. The links work, but the icon doesn't. (cc {{ping|Andyrom75|Jdlrobson}}) //02:00, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :I do not see an icon. —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 02:48, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :There is no icon for me. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-69216-3|&#126;2026-69216-3]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-69216-3|talk]]) 15:19, 30 April 2026 (UTC) ::The link to the image seems to have been broken somehow. The file still exists ([[c:File:Writing Circle.svg]]) (I also uploaded a [[c:File:Writing Circle white.svg|white version]] for use in {{tl|Banner}} which for consistency might be better?). The fix here should be to update the link in [[MediaWiki:Common.css]] on line 128. I don't have those permissions (interface admin) any more. Instead, @[[User:Andree.sk|Andree]], [[User:Andyrom75|Andy]], [[User:Atsirlin|Atsirlin]] and [[User:Jdlrobson|JDL]] should be able to make the necessary edit. <span style="font-family:atkinson hyperlegible">― '''[[User:Wauteurz|Wauteurz]]''' <small>([[User talk:Wauteurz|talk]])</small></span> 19:39, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :::hopefully fixed, we'll see when MW/ResourceLoader reloads the caches.. -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 20:14, 30 April 2026 (UTC) ::::I see the FTT icon in the upper right of the banner for [[Common scams]], so apparently that fixed it. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 21:17, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :::Yep that did the fix – cheers, Wauteurz and Andree. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:34, 1 May 2026 (UTC) == My Culture is not a Costume video == If you are reading this, I suggest you to watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6Y5cARFJw8 Summary: Cultural appropriation should never be a thing across America, including all of these holidays, and in daily life. The Halloween costumes that co-opt their cultures, are described as insensitive, dehumanizing, and unrepresentative of the culture, asked by six women. These women had a distaste of what their culture is used as Halloween costumes, and the reasons they presented, as erasing their culture, stereotypical, and a ignorance of the rich history of ethnic minorities. The most important of all, is that traditional attire, is considered to be sacred in different cultures, outside Western countries and nations. Reminder: Please see the [[Halloween]] article, and the [[respect]] too. This quotation would be: {{q|Another consideration is that some costumes may grossly misrepresent diverse cultures or cause offence and upset to others. There has also been considerable debate about cultural appropriation. Purported 'Arab', 'Mexican', 'Indian', 'Geisha', or 'Asylum Patient' costume choices have all come under scrutiny. Costumes that mimic police or military style clothing (including those of historical regimes), may also cause offence or be mistaken for genuine.|Buy: Costumes}} Thank you for reading this. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-26450-12|&#126;2026-26450-12]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-26450-12|talk]]) 19:06, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :This is a travel guide. We are not going to tell people what costumes to wear on this site. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:31, 30 April 2026 (UTC) ::I think there's a bit of "know your audience" here. Around the time this old YouTube video was created, the Twitterverse blew up over a white American teen wearing a Chinese dress to a formal party. However, Chinese people in China thought it was acceptable.[https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/02/world/asia/chinese-prom-dress.html][https://www.scmp.com/comment/insight-opinion/article/2144595/go-ahead-appropriate-my-culture] [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 23:58, 30 April 2026 (UTC) :::I wear batik shirts all summer, and if anyone wanted to object to it (no-one has), I'd insist that they have a conversation with me in Malay. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 00:29, 1 May 2026 (UTC) :This has to be a troll post. [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 09:34, 2 May 2026 (UTC) ::If you're doing it respectfully and acknowledge its origins, I don't see what's wrong with someone else's ethnic costume. When Katy Perry wore a kimono in one of her music videos, some Japanese-Americans were outraged, but people actually from Japan were perplexed as to why it was even controversial at all. And I've worn a traditional Indian shirt to a Deepavali party, and nobody found it offensive. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 07:26, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :::Key to wearing costumes of other cultures is doing it respectfully, although the risk of committing faux pas is still there. Wearing them for Halloween is probably more controversial than wearing them in proper context, such as the Deepavali. Having Finns dressed as Sámi (unknowingly combining details in conflicting ways) performing "genuine" Sámi rituals for tourists is indeed seen as cultural appropriation. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:55, 11 May 2026 (UTC) == Spirit Airlines gone bust == It seems [https://www.nbcnews.com/business/travel/spirit-airlines-shutdown-what-to-know-rcna343222 Spirit has gone bust] last night. Currently about [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?limit=500&fulltext=1&search=Spirit+Airlines&title=Special:Search&profile=default&ns0=1 320ish mentions] of the airline, so will be a massive undertaking to fix this, but any help would be appreciated. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:59, 3 May 2026 (UTC) :Some articles of [[India]] still mention Jet Airlines and GoAir, both of which have gone bust long ago. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:47, 3 May 2026 (UTC) ::Would be a worthwhile project to remove mentions of those too. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:28, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :I suppose we'll have to search for all mentions of Spirit Airlines in other articles. Or maybe hold off to see who buys their assets. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 16:01, 3 May 2026 (UTC) ::They've already had two rounds of bankruptcy. I don't think that a revival is at all likely. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 00:31, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] Was more thinking a merger than a revival, that another airline would buy some of the planes and take over at least a portion of their routes. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 16:45, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I expect all the remaining assets (everything from whole airplanes to office chairs to lease contracts on airport gates) to get sold off as part of the bankruptcy proceedings. I don't expect other airlines to really "take over their routes", but instead for some of them to increase the number of flights on routes that they were already serving, and a few to add a few new routes. Adding a new route can't be done overnight, so any airline that announces a new destination in the coming weeks has already been planning this for a while. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:47, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :Do you guys [https://letsbuyspiritair.com/ want to buy it]? —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 00:48, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::Shouldn't have vibecoded those servers... [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 12:58, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::Reminds me of [[:w:Global Airlines|Global Airlines]]. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 13:17, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::It looks like they're up to US $88 million in "unverified" pledges. That's 17% of the bailout that Spirit had been seeking a week ago, and that various news sources said might keep the airline operational for as little as six months. So... enough to keep the airline going this month, assuming that all the pledges are real (and they never are, though in some fundraising areas, you might get as high as 90%)? ::And then it dies again, of course. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:21, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::To keep it running, they need a sound business model and good management. They claim that the bankruptsy was due to the evilness of Wall Street (or so I interpret their message). They could be right, but it seems that running an airline company isn't easy these days, be it a legacy or budget one. If the business model really did work, then it is up to having the money and good management, and to not get vulnerable to Wall Street evilness (better not take loans from them). It would be really nice to hear them succeed, but I won't bet my mite on that. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:14, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I've read that they haven't been profitable since the pandemic in 2020. That suggests that they don't have a sound business model. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:49, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::::I mean LCCs around the world outside of Europe have been struggling since the pandemic, but Spirit was on a whole different level. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:25, 5 May 2026 (UTC) : What can we do by way of practical advice for travellers? There have been a fair number of stories about stranded passengers, stuck paying for a different flight, often at a higher price because one-way is usually more expensive than half of a return ticket & immediate flights more expensive than booking ahead. [https://people.com/spirit-airlines-passengers-recall-being-stranded-at-airports-after-airline-s-closure-11965179 Spirit passengers stranded], [https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/23/travel/thomas-cook-airline-collapse.html Thomas Cook] a few years ago involving 600,000 victims by some estimates, [https://www.islands.com/1996300/airlines-bankrupt-never-recovered/ 10 Airlines That Went Bankrupt And Never Recovered], ... : There are sites with advice about this, [https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/service-cessations-bankruptcy US DOT], [https://www.pbs.org/newshour/economy/after-spirit-airlines-shutdown-how-passengers-can-get-home-and-get-refunds PBS], [https://www.iata.org/contentassets/2e46aace261040b9a47fb7b9da18efc9/airline-bankruptcy-position-paper.pdf IATA] & several travel guides. It seem to boil down to seeking a refund from your credit card company & looking for "rescue fares" where other airlines offer a discount. : Are there good ways to reduce this risk? Always pay with a credit card? Does [[travel insurance]] cover this? Should you fly only on major airlines? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 17:00, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::I think Finland (the EU?) offers some protection if you book in the right way, after many passengers got stranded some years ago (COVID-19? 2008?). I think companies in the travel business are required to put money in a fund that covers their liabilities, so at least passengers should get their money back (I could be awfully wrong about the details). If you book through a travel bureau, then they take the responsibility (they probably have insurance). Then, of course, you shouldn't book via a "convenience flag" company. I believe that suitable travel insurance also covers this, but read the fine print. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:27, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com/travel/planning/what-to-do-if-tour-company-airline-goes-bankrupt.htm indicates that travel insurance with what seems to be called "insolvency cover" (not very common) can help. US credit card issuers must refund the price of cancelled flights, but that doesn't seem to be true elsewhere. :::I don't think that "only fly on major airlines" is reasonable. Airline bankruptcies are pretty uncommon in wealthier worlds. However, "don't fly on one that's already in bankruptcy proceedings" might be a reasonable rule. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:56, 4 May 2026 (UTC) ::::In the UK, and I think most of Europe, you have better consumer protection if you book a "package" of flight and hotel for a single price from a travel agent (which can be a part of the airline). If the airline goes bust when you are away, the travel agent has to arrange to get you home (without further charge), and the scheme is backed with a bond held by the CAA. See [[:W:Air Travel Organisers' Licensing]]. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 20:45, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :::::Yes. EU regulations require that businesses that sell packages place a deposit that should cover expenses for bankrupt partners (they estimate the costs themselves, so a bankrupt business may not be able to cover everything). In addition to returning money paid to them for unavailable services, they have to arrange and pay your journey back, if the return was part of the package. This applies only if you bought a package. If you reserve flight and accommodation through them separately, or book things yourself with their assistance (so that you get agreements with the individual businesses), then their liabilities are very limited – but they should clearly inform you that this isn't a package deal. :::::If you bought tickets yourself, you have to either ask the company itself (which may have priority liabilities worth more than its assets) or your credit company, which only need to pay back what you paid, no additional expenses. You choose which of them to ask for compensation. :::::(I did not read the directive, but a bunch of official advice.) :::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:03, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :btw a bit late, but kudos to [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] and [[User:Anyone150|Anyone150]] for doing the bulk of the removals. :) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:03, 9 May 2026 (UTC) == Is there an unannounced Montenegro editing event? == In the last couple of days, we've seen a number of new articles about attractions in Montenegro, few if any of them destinations by Wikivoyage definitions laid out on the [[WV:What is an article]] page, and all of them in a custom, non-Wikivoyage structure with personal comments. Are these all by one person who's using multiple accounts, or is this some kind of unannounced event? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:56, 4 May 2026 (UTC) :Please respond, @[[User:Andjela555|Andjela555]], @[[User:Zinuo67|Zinuo67]], @[[User:~2026-25860-58|~2026-25860-58]], @[[User:~2026-27229-97|~2026-27229-97]], @[[User:~2026-27107-15|~2026-27107-15]], @[[User:Stasya Kostova|Stasya Kostova]], @[[User:~2026-26916-20|~2026-26916-20]]. You are well-intentioned, and most of the titles you are adding articles for deserve to be listed on this site, in the article for the nearest town, but because you do not know about [[Wikivoyage:What is an article]] and have no idea what Wikivoyage style (for example, [[Wikivoyage:Article templates]], [[Wikivoyage:Pronouns]] and [[Wikivoyage:Goals]]) is, you are creating a mess, and if there is a planning or discussion page somewhere, one of us can post some basic Wikivoyage style and policy information to it to try to stop the mess from spreading. Please tell us who organized this editing event and who instructed you about what to add to Wikivoyage and how. It's important for us to know. Thanks! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 14:21, 5 May 2026 (UTC) ::{{re|Ikan Kekek}} Interestingly, from a CU check, it seems: ::* {{checkuser|Zinuo67}} ::* {{checkuser|Veda-Meda2015}} ::* {{checkuser|Ece Mira 67777}} ::* {{checkuser|Stasya Kostova}} ::* {{checkuser|Miona Colanovic}} ::are all a 100% match (no account blocks have been made, however). At least technically, there is no indication of this coming from a shared address either. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:23, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::Weird. Thanks for checking. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:51, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::: {{u|Stasya Kostova}} created [[Skočidjevojka Bay]] which needs to be cleaned up (couldn't find the correct template to tag for cleanup). [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 04:18, 8 May 2026 (UTC) :::::There is no such template because we don't have enough editors to say "you do it!" But if I lack time or need help, I usually post a notice on an article's talk page, where to be fair it's often ignored, and I may forget about it for some time, too. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:46, 8 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::In the case of [[Skočidjevojka Bay]], it should probably just be tagged with {{tl|stub}}. The template automatically populates it into a category if it's still like that after 7 days. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:08, 8 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::I have tagged it to merge into [[Petrovac]], as I don't think there is enough there for an article. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 10:24, 8 May 2026 (UTC) ==Policy for the phrase "adult entertainment"== An earlier version of the [[Southern California]] article used the phrase "adult entertainment" (see [[Talk:Southern California]] for discussion). As "adult entertainment" is a euphemism for pornography (but not always understood as such by non-native readers), we should have a policy which complies with [[Wikivoyage:Sex tourism policy]] and [[Wikivoyage:The traveller comes first]]. I made a draft in [[Wikivoyage:Words to avoid]]. Please contribute with your opinions. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 10:48, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :I don't think policy/guideline pages are places for drafts. If you had meant your new text to be a draft, you should have put it in the talk page for the policy/guideline page. It seemed non-controversial to me, and as I mentioned elsewhere, I support it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:53, 6 May 2026 (UTC) ::I agree with Ikan here. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:01, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::I also agree with Ikan on this one. [[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 21:27, 6 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I am happy with the addition. To me "Adult movies" could be those which have been given an "18 certificate", and violence could be the main reason for the rating. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:12, 6 May 2026 (UTC) :::::I'm all for avoiding any promotion of sex tourism, but I'm not sure a knee-jerk reaction to automatically make a phrase verboten is at all useful. I often travel with my family and I would like to know where the shady hotels are so I can avoid them. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 01:21, 7 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::Just for transparency, this is what Yvwv added: ::::::{{blockquote|adult entertainment: Can be understood as a euphemism for pornography, striptease, sex toy stores, and other sexually themed attractions. If such attractions comply with the [[Wikivoyage:Sex tourism policy]] they can be described without euphemism; a strip club can be called a strip club. Use expressions with "adults" in an unambigous way.}} :::::://<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:34, 7 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::'''Oppose''' the addition of "adult entertainment" to the words to avoid list. IMHO, we need to cut that list down to just those that are genuinely useful to avoid. Well over half have perfectly legitimate uses on a travel wiki. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 01:46, 7 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::: To sort out misunderstanding, see [[Wikivoyage talk:Words to avoid]] for discussion. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 08:14, 7 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::I think that the confusing situations should be mentioned. Here's one short way to do that: :::::::* Use expressions with "adults" in an unambiguous way (e.g., "Adults only (age 18+)"). :::::::[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:13, 7 May 2026 (UTC) == Main Page revamps, part 2 == As mentioned about a month and a bit ago, I'm in the midst of trying to modernise the look of this site. The second stage of those revamps is now at [[User:SHB2000/revamped main]], which revamps the sister projects section. The style replicates the redesign agreed upon with part 1 of the revamps when we got rid of the blue box. Any thoughts and feedback welcome. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:58, 10 May 2026 (UTC) :It looks virtually identical to me, so I think it's certainly fine. The sister projects footer is the only real difference and is a little more clean and clear, so I {{support}}. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 17:40, 10 May 2026 (UTC) : {{support}} Looks fine to me. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 14:13, 11 May 2026 (UTC) :'''Wikifunctions''' is listed twice with somewhat different descriptions. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:16, 11 May 2026 (UTC) ::Done, good catch. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:34, 11 May 2026 (UTC) : I notice that the links to other language versions are down at the end. I wonder if the people who need them most will find them there. Should they be more prominent? Perhaps in the top box? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 03:38, 12 May 2026 (UTC) ::Rather confusingly, we also don't display the language versions on mobile at all – is there any design-related reason behind this? (if not, then that will be part 3 of revamps) //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:45, 12 May 2026 (UTC) :::On mobile Minerva I am seeing various issues. The image in the discover section should push the text below and there is lots of blank whitespace. The map at the top is floating away from every thing else. :::Since most of our readership is on mobile I think it is important to address these. Please be sure to test it on a real phone and ensure you are viewing the default Minerva skin. [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 02:32, 13 May 2026 (UTC) ::::That seems to be an issue with the existing Main Page too. My reforms only change the Sister Projects section, which seems to work perfectly fine for me. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:47, 13 May 2026 (UTC) LGTM, thanks for doing this. Possibly a nitpick, but could the bottom row of the sister projects box be made symmetrical? --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 05:46, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :TT, this is not strictly possible without doing a lot to change the layout, since what will be symmetrical depends on your browser, monitor size, etc. On my computer, there are two rows of seven icons, which is balanced down the middle and looks quite clean. If I resize my browser window, it flows to four rows of four and one row of two, which is not symmetrical. I think the more meaningful discussion is about which projects to include. I personally would like to see [[:outreach:]] added, but I don't think it's critical. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 07:33, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::The main reason it wasn't included is because I'd literally forgotten :P. btw if you do see any missing projects, please do add them to [[User:SHB2000/WikivoyageSister]] since I won't be on my computer for the next few days. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:59, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::Done, template now updated. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:12, 31 May 2026 (UTC) == Wikidata, adding co-ordinates == [https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Wikidata:Events/Coordinate_Me_2026 COORDI­NATE ME], a wikidata contest for adding geolocation data in 26 chosen countries. Since we use that data & may have data in listings that could be on WD, perhaps some people here could help. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 04:12, 12 May 2026 (UTC) :This contest is wrought with problems, like tracking inaccuracies and errors, unresponsive organizer and delayed prize awards. Take a look at the contest's talk page in previous years to see all the issues it had. I have [https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Grants_talk:Programs/Wikimedia_Community_Fund/General_Support_Fund/WMAT_Multi-Year-Plan_Grant_2025-2027&oldid=27559767 spoken against] funding this year's contest due to fiscal and logistical mismanagement. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 14:52, 12 May 2026 (UTC) :Out of ~300000 listings we have around 4000 are like that - that we have WD for them, but the WD doesn't have coords... Now the question is, if we want to blindly export that, or what..... :) -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 20:56, 12 May 2026 (UTC) ::We also have many cities that have listings but the listings (with or without Wikidata) don't have coords. <b style="font-family:Verdana">[[User:Purplebackpack89#top|<b style="color:#3A003A">Pur</b><b style="color:#800080">ple</b>]][[User talk:Purplebackpack89|<b style="color:#991C99">back</b><b style="color:#CC33CC">pack</b><b style="color:gold">89</b>]]</b> 22:12, 15 May 2026 (UTC) == Franks Gatukök Göteborg Central == There is a hamburger and hot dog stand called Franks Gatukök in central Gothenburg (Göteborg in Swedish), right in front of the Gothernburg Central Station. I can personally verify this - I visited it less than a month ago. It also shows up at Google Maps. However, it doesn't appear to have any sort of website. Googling for "Franks Gatukök" gives a link to the site https://www.franksgatukok.se/ which lists several locations in Sweden, none of which is anywhere near Gothenburg Central Station. Their Facebook page doesn't list it either. Does anyone know if there is some sort of website for this location? If there is none, can it be listed on the Gothenburg article anyway? [[User:JIP|JIP]] ([[User talk:JIP|talk]]) 18:24, 15 May 2026 (UTC) :Sure it can be listed! Just don't include a website if there isn't any. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:22, 15 May 2026 (UTC) == A possible editorial action against WMF for laying off Union staff == You should be aware that [[meta:Talk:Community_Wishlist#May_20_update|there's currently a major upheaval]] over the alleged layoff of Community Tech staff by WMF. They're also [[en:Wikipedia:WP:Village_pump_(WMF)#Petition:_Editors_willing_to_join_in_collective_labor_action|discussing imitating a editorial strike in solidarity]] on Wikipedia because the staff that were laid off are members of the [[Meta:Wiki_Workers_United|Wiki Workers United]] union, which was formed just last week and in the process of organization. You might want to get to know them. So far, both have over 50 and 160 signatures, and both will be growing over the coming days. It's getting very significant, and it could impact this wiki, too. After that, if you agree to join in solidarity (and at the moment, pretty much a significant portion of Wikipedians are already in it), '''inform the WWU and [https://cwa-union.org/about/contact-us the CWA].''' Tell them ''everything they need to know going back years'' - and include all known heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis. After ''that''... beats me because of my lack of first-hand experience with labor unions and the like, but as [[:Wikipedia:Jeff the Land Shark|a certain little shark]] might say: {{tq|Murr. (Bite the hand that feeds. And I know where they hide the donuts.)}} [[User:2601AC47|2601AC47]] ([[User talk:2601AC47|talk]]) 19:27, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :@[[User:Asretired|Asretired]]; @[[User:Doc James|Doc James]]; @[[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]]; @[[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]]; @[[User:Mx. Granger|Mx. Granger]]; @[[User:OhanaUnited|OhanaUnited]]; @[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]]; @[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]]; anyone else? [[User:2601AC47|2601AC47]] ([[User talk:2601AC47|talk]]) 19:42, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :Thanks for posting here. But I think we should keep solidarity with a union separate from any grievances any of us might have about supposedly heavy-handed actions by the WMF involving the operation of wikis. My only grievance regarding the treatment of Wikivoyage that I can think of is that it can get lost in the shuffle. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:45, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :Thanks for posting here – for anyone reading, I'd absolutely urge you all to sign yourself in solidarity with WMF staff by adding your name at [[m:Wiki Workers United#Solidarity]] (I'd already done so before the ping). What happened yesterday absolutely reeked of corporatism and union-busting. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:37, 21 May 2026 (UTC) :I am not presently a member of the en.wp community and I would not seek to have anyone edit by proxy there for me or anything like that, but I want to register somewhere that I stand in solidarity with organized labor. There should probably be a [[phab:]] ticket to reform the entire Wikimedia Foundation into a worker-owned co-operative non-profit. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 02:46, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::I find this sort of discussion frustrating, because so few people seem to know what they're talking about. For example, Justin, forgive me for picking on you, but the WMF can't be reformed into "a worker-owned co-operative non-profit", because public charities in the US can't technically be "owned" by anyone. I suggest that anyone who wants to support labor rights would do well to learn more about the subject, and then talk to their own elected politicians about making it ''structurally'' feasible to have a labor union that crosses national borders – not merely a federation of locals that coordinate with each other (which is what "international" labor unions are), but an actual single organization, operating under the same rules, so you don't get the lone employee in this country having a "union" of me, myself, and I or the near-impossibility of writing a contract that is the same for everyone. It's bad enough that US states have different rules (e.g., layoffs above a certain size in California require 60 calendar days' [fully paid] advance notice); it's almost impossible to reconcile different national laws. ::Then you have the problem of people having different cultural conceptions of what a union is supposed to do for you. Is the labor union supposed to get you higher pay, or fairer conditions [which can mean lower pay and worse working conditions for previously privileged staff], or prevent staff from being fired, or organize social events, or help you get your next job, or something else? I know one municipal labor union whose negotiations are done by senior employees that "accidentally" preferred themselves for vacation scheduling, higher pay, and never having to work holidays and weekends for years. I know a couple of people at another organization who are pushing for a union; they seem to mostly be afraid that they will get fired someday but not understand why they were fired (I'm objectively doing well at the parts of my job that I think are important; why should my manager's opinion, or that fact that all my teammates keep quitting to get away from me, be relevant?). ::Apologies for the long post, but: please, don't assume that whatever your local laws or views of unions are would be relevant to any situation that extends outside of your home area. It's really enormously complicated. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:55, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::It's not picking on me, but you are wrong factually: you can have a [https://www.theselc.org/workplace_democracy_in_nonprofit_organizations worker self-directed non-profit 501(c)3 in the United States]. I am generally opposed to any hierarchy that models the way that capitalist businesses can unilaterally hire and fire. Maybe these workers still needed to be fired for some reason, but that should be decided by a democratic process. What <em>that</em> looks like will be different from organization to organization (e.g. a grievances board, administrative leave while under review, managers who are elected on a periodic basis and given the power to hire and fire by the working class, etc.), but when it comes to someone's basic livelihood and the fact that most of us live under wage slavery, then I don't want anyone getting fired without a democratic process behind it or at the very least some kind of extraordinary emergency reason. Additionally, for what it's worth, California (where the WMF are based) has laws specifically designed to help incorporate for-profit businesses as a co-op, so I would imagine that if someone wanted to create a worker self-directed non-profit, that would probably be the easiest place in the United States to do it. Lastly, I don't know why you seem to assume that I don't live in California. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 21:39, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::::"Self-directed" and "owned" are different things. ::::I make no assumptions about where you are; I give the California example because it's one that I know exists in my state and that I know does not exist everywhere. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:08, 23 May 2026 (UTC) :::::By "worker-owned co-op", I am distinguishing it from a member co-op like a grocery co-op or a credit union or a co-op apartment complex. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 23:04, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :On the question of what Wikivoyage needs: :The OP is already blocked on two wikis for trolling and disruptive editing. Their contributions here this year are to import drama that is not directly related to us. This has happened a few times before with other editors (e.g., complaints about software changes). :The Simple English Wikipedia has [https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Blocks_and_bans#Reciprocal a rule called "1STRIKE"] that applies to people who have already been blocked elsewhere (almost always the English Wikipedia), and then bring their bad behavior to Simple. Maybe we should consider adopting a similar rule. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:56, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::They haven't done anything blockable or even against any guidelines here, and to be clear, you're suggesting we should indefinitely block them for informing us about layoffs and anti-union actions? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 18:03, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::I'm suggesting that when someone says "Tell [an external organization] ''everything they need to know going back years'' - and include all known heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis", that this is more like "drama-mongering" than "informing". :::For example, the WMF deployed the current MediaWiki desktop skin several years ago, and some people are still mad about this "heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis". The Russian Wikipedia is still running a pop-up message saying that this was deployed without their consent. Do you think that's relevant to either layoffs or unionizing? I don't. Some of the "heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis" even involved the team that's being dissolved. There are probably still people at the German-language Wikipedia who think that Comm Tech was wrong to decline their urgent wish for the wrong piece of software to be re-installed, when the actual problem was created by their own local interface admins. There are definitely some who are still mad that the WMF stopped two of their admins from wheel-warring over the site config years ago. But none of these "heavy-handed incidents involving the WMF and the Wikis" have anything to do with unionizing. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 19:48, 24 May 2026 (UTC) ::::If you noticed, I addressed that above without saying they should be summarily blocked, and no-one has taken them up on that here, at any rate. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:36, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :::::2601AC47 was globally locked. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-31136-19|&#126;2026-31136-19]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-31136-19|talk]]) 22:53, 24 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::Why? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:02, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :::::::[https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Meta:Requests_for_help_from_a_sysop_or_bureaucrat#c-Tamzin-20260523115300-Trolling/vandalism_at_highly_sensitive_WMF-related_discussion This was the conversation/request]. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 23:06, 24 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::::Yeah, I see. They really trolled in that thread. Too bad; I'm indebted to them for informing me about these happenings. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 00:15, 25 May 2026 (UTC) ::We already have [[WV:ONESTRIKE]], by the way, but I really don't think bringing up the attention of the WMF's recent union busting actions is anywhere near disruptive to warrant an indefinitely. If it wasn't them, it almost certainly would've been brought up by someone else in the pub. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:09, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :::I signed it in the signatures. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 00:37, 5 June 2026 (UTC) == May 2026 Wikimedia Café meetups regarding the Wikimedia Foundation Annual Plan == <div class="border-box" style="background-color: var(--background-color-warning-subtle, #f8eaba); max-width: 875px; padding: 5px; border: 1px solid black; margin: 5px; color: var(--clr-dark)"> <div class="box" style="float:left; padding-top: 15px; padding-right: 15px;">[[File:Wikimedia Café logo in plain SVG format.svg|75px|alt=The logo for the Wikimedia Café]]</div> Hello! There will be two '''[https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9 Wikimedia Café]''' discussion opportunities during the last weekend of May. Both sessions will focus on the [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Foundation_Annual_Plan/2026-2027 the 2026-2027 Wikimedia Foundation Annual Plan]. Participants may attend either or both sessions. #'''Saturday, 30 May 2026 at 15:00 UTC''' ([https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/1780153200 timestamp converter]), at a time friendly to the Americas, Africa, and Europe #'''Sunday, 31 May 2026 at 05:00 UTC''' ([https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/1780203600 timestamp converter]), at a time friendly to Asia and the Pacific Café participants are highly encouraged to read in advance [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Sohom_Datta/annual_plan_guide at least this summary of the plan]. Optionally, Café participants are encouraged to read portions of the plan that interest them and [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Talk:Wikimedia_Foundation_Annual_Plan/2026-2027 ask questions or provide feedback on the Annual Plan talk page]. Please see the Café page for more information, including [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9#May_2026_meetings_with_a_focus_on_Wikimedia_Foundation_Annual_Plan/2026-2027 tables of timestamp conversions for both sessions], [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9#Agenda._This_will_be_an_approximately_1_hour_Caf%C3%A9_session,_and_is_extendible_for_an_additional_30_minutes_if_needed. the agenda], and [https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Caf%C3%A9#How_to_attend_the_session how to register]! <br /> [[File:Buntstifte Eberhard Faber crop 64h.jpg|860px|alt=cropped image of colored pencils]]</div> <span style="white-space:nowrap;">[[User:Pine|<span style="color:#01796f; text-shadow:#00BFFF 0 0 1.0em">↠Pine</span>]] [[User talk:Pine|<span style="color:DeepSkyBlue">(<b style="color:#FFDF00;text-shadow:#FFDF00 0 0 1.0em">✉</b>)</span>]]</span> 19:48, 21 May 2026 (UTC) == Faroe Islands update == Alright, I'm flying to [[Tórshavn]] next week. Anything on [[Faroe Islands]] that need a listing update, a picture or boots-on-the-ground verification? [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:31, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :Wow, what an opportunity. Our sister site has some [[:w:en:Category:Wikipedia requested photographs in the Faroe Islands|requested photographs]] if you are available to take any. (Note that I'm not a member of the community there and I'm not soliciting editing by proxy.) ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 15:59, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::Heh, I think it wouldn't be controversial to request to take a picture of a village or power plant. I've bookmarked several places and at least two locations are along the way to/from the airport so I have at least two chances to take pictures. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 18:06, 22 May 2026 (UTC) :I notice that [[Faroe Islands#Towns and villages]] says "the roofs are often turf-covered", next to a picture showing no turf-covered roofs. Perhaps you could easily determine whether "often" is still the right word? [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:02, 22 May 2026 (UTC) ::Roofs are about 70-80% turf-covered when I see them in villages, but this number drops in bigger towns and only a few houses in the capital have turf roofs. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 23:12, 26 May 2026 (UTC) == Query regarding Kartographer extension == I am an editor at the Malayalam Wikivoyage project, which is currently hosted in [https://incubator.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wy/ml/%E0%B4%AA%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%B0%E0%B4%A7%E0%B4%BE%E0%B4%A8_%E0%B4%A4%E0%B4%BE%E0%B5%BE Incubator]. We recently encountered an issue where map markers were not appearing on maps. We raised a ticket in [https://phabricator.wikimedia.org/T395208 Phabricator], and came to know that the Kartographer extension is being removed. Does anyone here know of any alternative extension or approach that can be used to show markers on maps for denoting places? [[User:Adithyak1997|Adithyak1997]] ([[User talk:Adithyak1997|talk]]) 17:19, 23 May 2026 (UTC) :As far as I'm aware, Kartographer is not being removed as such, just not being added to any non-Wikivoyage WMF wikis. There is a [[phab:project/view/1692/|project board for Kartographer]] on [[phab:]] and you can [[mw:Help:Extension:Kartographer|generally learn more about]] the extension on [[mw:]]. I imagine that if Kartographer were to be removed, there would be a replacement deployed before that. {{Ping|Jdforrester (WMF)}} can you confirm that I'm correct (or if not, correct me)? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 18:12, 23 May 2026 (UTC) ::{{Ping|Koavf}} Thanks for sharing the links. I have already raised a ticket in Phabricator and it was based on that, I came to know that it will not be enabled on any new Wikivoyages and that it will be removed from other Wikivoyages too. {{Ping|Jdforrester (WMF)}} For your confirmation/comments on above reply please. [[User:Adithyak1997|Adithyak1997]] ([[User talk:Adithyak1997|talk]]) 15:59, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :::@[[User:Adithyak1997|Adithyak1997]]: Indeed, as I said there, " the mode should also have been removed from Wikivoyages". The problem is not with Kartographer but with the 'temporary' hack to allow Wikivoyages to cross-load content from WMCS, which was promised to be removed. :::@[[User:Koavf|Koavf]]: Do you know when the Wikivoyage community will finally do this work? [[User:Jdforrester (WMF)|Jdforrester (WMF)]] ([[User talk:Jdforrester (WMF)|talk]]) 12:57, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I don't have any special insight into that, unfortunately. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 14:38, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::I think [[User:Andree.sk|Andree.sk]], [[User:OhanaUnited|OhanaUnited]], and [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] know more about maps than most of us. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:28, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :::::I'm not sure what is expected to be done by us, though? Is kartographer as a whole deprecated, or just some feature of it? Groups? I am completely out of loop here... -- [[User_talk:Andree.sk|andree]] 20:27, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :::::: I have no idea either. The only thing I did that is related to Kartographer is reporting a bug with missing pins on a map whenever some pins fall across both sides of the international date line. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 23:14, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::@[[User:Andree.sk|Andree.sk]]: Yes, Groups, according to https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Extension:Kartographer#Groups_for_Wikivoyage — but it doesn't explain what's the limitation specifically (in general, having groups seems fine?). [[User:Jdforrester (WMF)|Jdforrester (WMF)]] ([[User talk:Jdforrester (WMF)|talk]]) 17:09, 1 June 2026 (UTC) ::::If you don't mind me asking, where was it promised to be removed? //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:07, 27 May 2026 (UTC) ::::: I have no information regarding any removal of Kartographer features. However, I understand that the Wikivoyage feature is not available in the Incubator because it would function not only for Wikivoyage but also for all other non-Wikivoyage sub-wikis. Furthermore, no one from the German-speaking community is involved in making changes to Kartographer. --[[User:RolandUnger|RolandUnger]] ([[User talk:RolandUnger|talk]]) 06:27, 7 June 2026 (UTC) == [[Template:Other uses]] == Looking at [[Template:Other uses]], I see that it is supposed to generate an italicized hatnote such as the following: :''For other places with the same name, see [[Cleveland (disambiguation)]].'' But where I see {{tl|Other uses}} used on pages such as [[Burbank]] and [[Columbus]], the hatnote is ''not'' italicized: :For other places with the same name, see [[Burbank (disambiguation)]]. :For other places with the same name, see [[Columbus (disambiguation)]]. I checked the template {{tl|Other uses}} itself and I couldn't figure out why the italics are not showing up. Anybody have a suggestion? -- [[User:Metropolitan90|Metropolitan90]] ([[User talk:Metropolitan90|talk]]) 21:46, 24 May 2026 (UTC) :I [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Template%3AOther_uses&diff=5282293&oldid=5282292 removed the CSS classes] and it now renders italicized on pages. The weird thing is that these classes are not part of [[MediaWiki:Common.css]], so ''maybe'' adding non-defined classes results in unstyled text. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 22:56, 24 May 2026 (UTC) == A Pee section on articles == Hey everyone, I suggest adding a “pee” or “poop” section to articles (district, city, region, country), or having articles like “peeing in the (country)” or “peeing in (city)” would be great. Thanks…[[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 12:10, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :I think you're looking for a subsection under the "Respect" section where we are supposed to discuss the regulations regarding defecation and urination. Or public bathrooms under the "Cope" section. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 12:34, 26 May 2026 (UTC) :I think that a title like [[Toilets in the United Arab Emirate]] would be more appropriate and expected. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:53, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::Like if we have “sleep”, “eat” and “see” instead of “accommodation”, “F&B choices” and “attractions”, I think we need a “pee”, “poop”, “urinate”, “defecate”, “excrete”, “eliminate waste”, “dump”, “crap”, “drop a deuce”, “piss”, “whiz”, “micturate”, “/ʃɪt/” section. [[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 18:23, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::: no we don't, not with this type of vocabulary which is very unbecoming for a travel guide. You are welcome to create a WikiPee website, invite whomever you want to join, and write whatever suits your fancy. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 18:48, 26 May 2026 (UTC) ::::Even if we thought that a "Pee" section was a good label, it's unlikely to be the one that readers are looking for. That's what I meant when I said that "Toilets" might be more "expected". [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:20, 27 May 2026 (UTC) :::I don't think we need such a separate section on it, as [[WV:STICK]] already suggests putting toilets under "Cope". Even if we ever find a need for such a section, I would suggest "Toilet" as a verb. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 02:52, 27 May 2026 (UTC) ::::Okay, but maybe the region doesn’t have any toilets, or the locals pee in a hole, on the floor, or in a valley. Also, I think there are peeing customs or peeing places in the city or country. Is the water quality good? What does it feel like to pee (peeing experience)? That’s why we need a pee section. [[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 18:03, 27 May 2026 (UTC) :::::Yes, as was pointed out Cope is the place for information about toilets and it's indeed useful information for voyagers - especially in destinations where toilets are hard to find for one reason or another. Plainly writing out "Pee", "Shit" or the like as a heading would be rude, though. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:27, 27 May 2026 (UTC) ::::::If we include “pee” in “cope,” the “cope” section will have a lot of information that doesn’t have enough variety. ::::::That’s all— [[User:Almajidy|<b style="background:#3e67b3;color:#FFF;border:4pxsolid #3e67b3;border-radius:25px;padding:3px 10px;font:20px 'Brush Script MT';">'''Almajidy'''</b>]]<b style="font-size:7px;">【Talk】</b> 08:11, 28 May 2026 (UTC) == Vote now in the 2026 U4C election == <section begin="announcement-content" /> Eligible voters are asked to participate in the 2026 [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee|Universal Code of Conduct Coordinating Committee]] election. More information–including an eligibility check, voting process information, candidate information, and a link to the vote–are available on Meta at the [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee/Election/2026|2026 Election information page]]. The vote closes on 2 June 2026 at [https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/1780358400 00:00 UTC]. Please vote if your account is eligible. Results will be available by 14 June 2026. -- In cooperation with the U4C,<section end="announcement-content" /> [[m:User:Keegan (WMF)|Keegan (WMF)]] ([[m:User talk:Keegan (WMF)|talk]]) 17:15, 27 May 2026 (UTC) <!-- Message sent by User:Keegan (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=30513860 --> :btw I'm gonna shamelessly self-promote [[m:User:SHB2000/U4C guide 2026]] if any of you are interested – tried to be comprehensive, use it at your will. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:24, 28 May 2026 (UTC) ::I looked over your list. I'm concerned about the candidate who has an active U4C case, of course, but also about the number of candidates who didn't answer the questions. That suggests that they would struggle to do the work. ::You might look at [[m:Universal Code of Conduct/Coordinating Committee/Election/Campaigning rules]]. What the English Wikipedia calls "canvassing" is allowed. Meta-Wiki has never prohibited it, and in some processes, such as the Community Wishlist, actively encourages it. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:20, 28 May 2026 (UTC) :::It depends, I suppose. Meta doesn't prohibit canvassing, but the overwhelming opinion was that Uncle's canvassing in his NVM application was disruptive enough that it demonstrated a severe lack of understanding for what the role actually was (since NVMs are appointed, not voted in, so consensus isn't really something for the U4C to take into consideration). A massive shame, honestly, because he was one of the more qualified candidates that I had in [[m:User:SHB2000/U4C guide 2025]], one that could've actually had a chance for the SSA seat this year if it weren't for that. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:03, 29 May 2026 (UTC) :::: Having met {{u|Borschts}} in-person during last year's Wikimania, I am comfortable supporting his candidacy. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 00:07, 31 May 2026 (UTC) == New itinerary == The Ganges is one of the most important rivers of Asia, yet there's no itinerary on it, unlike the [[Yellow River]], [[Yangtze]] or the [[Nile]]. So, I have developed one on the Ganges under [[along the Ganges River]], albeit with inspirations from those Chinese rivers. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 14:34, 1 June 2026 (UTC) == User rights nomination == Hey everyone, I know this is a bit late, but there is currently 1 admin nomination right now at [[Wikivoyage:User rights nominations#Koavf (sysop)]]. Your input and opinions are more than appreciated. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:55, 2 June 2026 (UTC) == Simple version of Wikivoyage == Can we create a simple version of Wikivoyage, similar to Simple English Wikipedia? Would this be a good concept, if excecuted properly? [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 06:06, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :While Simple English Wikivoyage sounds good on paper, the Wikimedia Foundation (WMF) currently does not allow creation of Simple English projects other than Wikipedia and Wiktionary. Maybe we could host Simple English Wikivoyage under a separate namespace under English WV (similar to Wikijunior under Wikibooks), but the problem is that the English WV community is already small. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 06:26, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::I've always thought it's possible to potentially execute a multilingual Wikivoyage, but I suppose the need for that with modern translation software now present, is almost zero. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:18, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::The problem with translation software on Wikivoyage is that there's not always one-to-one translations of idiomatic expressions we tend to use in articles (as opposed to Wikipedia). For instance, there's no direct Bengali translation of "smorgasbord" used in [[India]], leading me to reword its Bengali version for a similar expression (like a "forest of languages" instead of a "smorgasbord of languages"). '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:24, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::You should still be able to usually read between the lines, though. At least this is what I often end up doing when translating content from de or itwikivoyage. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:48, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::@[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] @[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]] @[[User:Koavf|Koavf]] What about the simple version of Wikibooks, Wikiquotes, and Wikiversity? [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 08:06, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::None of those would be approved today and [[:q:simple:]] and [[:q:b:]] were closed a long time ago (there was never a simple.wv). Wikibooks has a kind of proxy for simple books at [[:b:Wikibooks:Wikijunior]]. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 08:08, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::Simple English Wikibooks and Wikiquote were closed long time ago, and there has never been Simple English Wikiversity or Wikivoyage. However, you still have Wikijunior for child-oriented books, regular English Wikiquotes for simple English quotes (if there's any), and I guess there's a Wikijunior-like mechanism on regular English Wikiversity. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 08:11, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::Wikijunior is perhaps the only bit of Wikibooks (other than the Cookbook) that's functionally usable icl... //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:54, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::::{{Ping|SHB2000}} Do you want to take a look at that above comment? ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 09:06, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::::::Sorry yeah my comment was intended as a reply to yours, not Sbb's. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:32, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :In addition to the fact that the WMF would not allow projects like simple.wp today, the language in Wikivoyage should be very accessible and the concepts are generally pretty easy to understand, so I don't see the need for this as much as for an encyclopedia that covers literally every topic and could plausibly use simplified articles. ―[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''<span style="color:black">v</span>f</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 07:34, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::Also, I no longer subscribe to the "Simple English" language ideology I once tried to. I rather focus on accessibility by making complex concepts easier. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:37, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::"Simple English" language ideology? [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 08:13, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::Yes, and that includes limiting your vocabulary to 1500-something words (BE 1500 or VOA Special English), or even less (BE 850). However, I sometimes find it limiting (maybe Orwellian), although I don't use any overly complicated expressions, and my focus is towards simplifying concepts rather than using simple words. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 08:16, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :::::This is part of why I think wikis like tokwiki (an experimental language crafted on the basis of minimising the amount of words used) are absolutely useless (see [[m:User:SHB2000/tokwiki]] if you want a full explanation) – you limit expression in a needless way when there's a clear alternative available that's more practical. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:57, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::::::The processes that created a city or landscape are often convoluted, but their description need not be. Difficult-to-read text on WV more often reflects muddle and "wikipeditis" than inherent complexity. The solution is to re-write in a way that's clear, engaging and relevant to the traveller, not to invent a whole separate site or pidgin language. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 11:36, 5 June 2026 (UTC) : I'll give this idea a rather firm '''oppose'''. We do not have enough editors to readily support it. However, there is a valid concern about keeping the English here relatively simple. : Many of our readers will have English that is somewhat limited & quite a few editors are non-native speakers, though they all seem to have good to excellent English. Idioms are tricky in any language, so perhaps we should replace "take to his heels" with "run away" & so on. Cultural references are also tricky, whether Shakespeare or some blues tune; some of those need to be avoided or explained. Of course there is a trade-off here; we want a relaxed informal style & that implies idiomatic English with some cultural references. I'd say we are at least close to the correct balance already. : Expressions peculiar to one variety of English -- e.g. "lakh" in Subcontinent English -- should be explained if visitors are likely to encounter them, but generally avoided in our text. Expressions that vary across dialects -- does a car have a hood & trunk or bonnet & boot? -- involve judgement calls; in some contexts they are OK but in others they should be avoided or provided with a gloss. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 14:45, 5 June 2026 (UTC) :*'''Oppose''' - as per [[User:Pashley]] we do not have enough editors to support a "Simple" version. I checked a few statistics and found: :::{| class="wikitable" |- !Product !Articles !Editors |- |English Wikipedia |7,191,087 |278,463 |- |Simple WIkipedia |281,811 |3,759 |- |Wikivoyage |180,828 |985 |} :::*'''Note''' - An "editor" is classed as somebody who has made at least one edit in the last 30 days. ::This shows that in rough figures, for every Simple English editor, there are 80 English Wikipedia editors. If we were to translate this to Wikivoyage, we could expect between 10 and 15 editors on Simple English Wikivoyage which is not enough to sustain the project. Applying the same logic to number of articles, we might expect about 6000 articles - not enough to attract a reasonable readership. ::The quality of articles in Simple English Wikipedia is poor - far too few meet the criteria of using "Simple English". Simple English is moreover bedevilled by there being no agreement as to whether the target audience are younger readers or readers for whom English is a second language. Translating this to the proposed Simple English Wikivoyage to whom should we target questions regarding drugs, trans people, red light districts etc - younger readers or adult readers for who Eglish is a second language? ::[[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 16:59, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::Wow, I never expected this discussion to get many responses from different people on this pub. [[Special:Contributions/&#126;2026-33106-46|&#126;2026-33106-46]] ([[User talk:&#126;2026-33106-46|talk]]) 20:43, 5 June 2026 (UTC) ::Some of you may be interested in reading [[m:Writing clearly#Writing for translation]]. The idea is to make your writing straightforward enough that it would be easy to translate. Machine translation, in particular, does best with shorter, simpler sentences. This doesn't mean that every sentence must be short and simple, but it is helpful if the most important parts are short and simple. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 19:08, 6 June 2026 (UTC) :: Another guide is [[w:The_Complete_Plain_Words]], originally written for British civil servants but useful to anyone wanting to write more clearly. The original 1954 edition is out of copyright & available [https://plain-words.com/ free online]. There have been several revised editions; the latest (2014) is still in print & also available as an ebook. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 19:47, 6 June 2026 (UTC) 0s94csd4yy6zns84qwn1mjzklomg349 10 78259 5288881 5287192 2026-06-06T15:12:28Z Ypsilon 1806 5288881 wikitext text/x-wiki <!--Please sweep old Discoveries to the archive, which is [[Discover]]. Add them at the top of that page. --> <!--Even if months are always written with two digits, days from 0-9 should be written WITHOUT an extra zero! --> {{#switch: {{CURRENTMONTH}}-{{CURRENTDAY}} | 06-6= [[File:MonkeyAtKagamega.JPG|right|200px]] * The [[Kakamega Rainforest]] (''pictured'') along the nation's western border is '''all that remains of Kenya's rainforests''' which once spanned the nation all the way to the Indian Ocean. * The town of [[El Valle]] in [[Panama]] is actually ''inside'' the '''caldera of a [[Volcanoes|volcano]]'''. * The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in [[Muscat]] features the '''second largest hand made Persian carpet in the world'''. | 06-7= [[File:MonkeyAtKagamega.JPG|right|200px]] * There are large numbers of '''feral chickens''' all over the island of [[Rarotonga]]. * The [[Kakamega Rainforest]] (''pictured'') along the nation's western border is '''all that remains of Kenya's rainforests''' which once spanned the nation all the way to the Indian Ocean. * The town of [[El Valle]] in [[Panama]] is actually ''inside'' the '''caldera of a [[Volcanoes|volcano]]'''. | 06-8= [[File:MonkeyAtKagamega.JPG|right|200px]] * As the '''birthplace of several world religions''', South Asia is home to countless [[Sacred sites of South Asia|sacred and holy sites]]. * There are large numbers of '''feral chickens''' all over the island of [[Rarotonga]]. * The [[Kakamega Rainforest]] (''pictured'') along the nation's western border is '''all that remains of Kenya's rainforests''' which once spanned the nation all the way to the Indian Ocean. | 06-9= [[File:Broye du Poitou.jpg|right|200px]] * Le Broyé du Poitou (''pictured''), meaning '''"Crushed of the Poitou"''' is a local cake of [[Poitiers]] that's traditionally shared by punching its centre, breaking it into pieces. * As the '''birthplace of several world religions''', South Asia is home to countless [[Sacred sites of South Asia|sacred and holy sites]]. * There are large numbers of '''feral chickens''' all over the island of [[Rarotonga]]. | 06-10= [[File:Broye du Poitou.jpg|right|200px]] * Copheap, the hill closest to [[Warminster]], became a '''war memorial for the town''' after a public meeting in 1947. * Le Broyé du Poitou (''pictured''), meaning '''"Crushed of the Poitou"''' is a local cake of [[Poitiers]] that's traditionally shared by punching its centre, breaking it into pieces. * As the '''birthplace of several world religions''', South Asia is home to countless [[Sacred sites of South Asia|sacred and holy sites]]. | 06-11= [[File:Broye du Poitou.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Kassala]] is famous for its '''coffee''', which is traditionally served in a clay coffee pot called a '''jebbana'''. * Copheap, the hill closest to [[Warminster]], became a '''war memorial for the town''' after a public meeting in 1947. * Le Broyé du Poitou (''pictured''), meaning '''"Crushed of the Poitou"''' is a local cake of [[Poitiers]] that's traditionally shared by punching its centre, breaking it into pieces. | 06-12= [[File:Gilindire cave lake.jpg|right|200px]] * One major attraction in [[Aydıncık]] is the Gilindire Cave, a '''large decorated cave''' with a lake at the bottom (''pictured''). * [[Kassala]] is famous for its '''coffee''', which is traditionally served in a clay coffee pot called a '''jebbana'''. * Copheap, the hill closest to [[Warminster]], became a '''war memorial for the town''' after a public meeting in 1947. | 06-13= [[File:Gilindire cave lake.jpg|right|200px]] * Perhaps the most popular activity for visitors to [[Tioman]] is '''snorkelling'''. * One major attraction in [[Aydıncık]] is the Gilindire Cave, a '''large decorated cave''' with a lake at the bottom (''pictured''). * [[Kassala]] is famous for its '''coffee''', which is traditionally served in a clay coffee pot called a '''jebbana'''. | 06-14= [[File:Gilindire cave lake.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Voyages of Thor Heyerdahl|Thor Heyerdahl]] is mostly remembered for his '''voyages on modern replicas of ancient boats'''. * Perhaps the most popular activity for visitors to [[Tioman]] is '''snorkelling'''. * One major attraction in [[Aydıncık]] is the Gilindire Cave, a '''large decorated cave''' with a lake at the bottom (''pictured''). | 06-15= [[File:Anchor Point, Alaska.JPG|right|200px]] * [[Anchor Point]] features the '''westernmost point in the North American highway system''' (''sign pictured''), which is on Sterling Highway. * [[Voyages of Thor Heyerdahl|Thor Heyerdahl]] is mostly remembered for his '''voyages on modern replicas of ancient boats'''. * Perhaps the most popular activity for visitors to [[Tioman]] is '''snorkelling'''. | 06-16= [[File:Anchor Point, Alaska.JPG|right|200px]] * The Museum Utopie und Alltag in [[Eisenhüttenstadt]] showcases the '''daily life in the former East Germany'''. * [[Anchor Point]] features the '''westernmost point in the North American highway system''' (''sign pictured''), which is on Sterling Highway. * [[Voyages of Thor Heyerdahl|Thor Heyerdahl]] is mostly remembered for his '''voyages on modern replicas of ancient boats'''. | 06-17= [[File:Anchor Point, Alaska.JPG|right|200px]] * Goa's '''cultural and commercial capital''' [[Margao]] features a '''white sand beach''' spanning more than 30 kilometres. * The Museum Utopie und Alltag in [[Eisenhüttenstadt]] showcases the '''daily life in the former East Germany'''. * [[Anchor Point]] features the '''westernmost point in the North American highway system''' (''sign pictured''), which is on Sterling Highway. | 06-18= [[File:Freedom to Face Dangerous Life.jpg|right|200px]] * Almost every night of the year, '''turtles''' (''pictured'') '''appear''' on [[Meru Betiri National Park|Sukamade Beach]] to lay eggs. * Goa's '''cultural and commercial capital''' [[Margao]] features a '''white sand beach''' spanning more than 30 kilometres. * The Museum Utopie und Alltag in [[Eisenhüttenstadt]] showcases the '''daily life in the former East Germany'''. | 06-19= [[File:Freedom to Face Dangerous Life.jpg|right|200px]] * Housed in a '''former railway station''', the Vale museum in [[Vila Velha (Espírito Santo)|Vila Velha]] presents among other things the local '''rail and port system''' once used for transporting vast quantities of '''gold'''. * Almost every night of the year, '''turtles''' (''pictured'') '''appear''' on [[Meru Betiri National Park|Sukamade Beach]] to lay eggs. * Goa's '''cultural and commercial capital''' [[Margao]] features a '''white sand beach''' spanning more than 30 kilometres. | 06-20= [[File:Freedom to Face Dangerous Life.jpg|right|200px]] * [[North Rona]] is the '''most remote island in Britain''' to have been inhabited long-term. * Housed in a '''former railway station''', the Vale museum in [[Vila Velha (Espírito Santo)|Vila Velha]] presents among other things the local '''rail and port system''' once used for transporting vast quantities of '''gold'''. * Almost every night of the year, '''turtles''' (''pictured'') '''appear''' on [[Meru Betiri National Park|Sukamade Beach]] to lay eggs. | 06-21= [[File:Giant Owl Belconnen.jpg|right|200px]] * The backside of the Big Powerful Owl sculpture (''pictured'') in [[Canberra/Belconnen|Belconnen]] is '''said to resemble male genitalia''', and as such often vandalised with graffiti. * [[North Rona]] is the '''most remote island in Britain''' to have been inhabited long-term. * Housed in a '''former railway station''', the Vale museum in [[Vila Velha (Espírito Santo)|Vila Velha]] presents among other things the local '''rail and port system''' once used for transporting vast quantities of '''gold'''. | 06-22= [[File:Giant Owl Belconnen.jpg|right|200px]] * Apollonia outside [[Fier]] '''was a Greek colony, an Illyrian and then a Roman town''', today it's one of Albania's most prominent ancient sites. * The backside of the Big Powerful Owl sculpture (''pictured'') in [[Canberra/Belconnen|Belconnen]] is '''said to resemble male genitalia''', and as such often vandalised with graffiti. * [[North Rona]] is the '''most remote island in Britain''' to have been inhabited long-term. | 06-23= [[File:Giant Owl Belconnen.jpg|right|200px]] * In a time when we drown in e-mail, a '''[[Postal service|physical postcard]]''' from far away is usually more welcome than ever. * Apollonia outside [[Fier]] '''was a Greek colony, an Illyrian and then a Roman town''', today it's one of Albania's most prominent ancient sites. * The backside of the Big Powerful Owl sculpture (''pictured'') in [[Canberra/Belconnen|Belconnen]] is '''said to resemble male genitalia''', and as such often vandalised with graffiti. | 06-24= [[File:SUHall2.jpg|right|200px]] * Silliman University Hall (''pictured'') in [[Dumaguete]] is the '''oldest U.S. structure in the Philippines still standing'''. * In a time when we drown in e-mail, a '''[[Postal service|physical postcard]]''' from far away is usually more welcome than ever. * Apollonia outside [[Fier]] '''was a Greek colony, an Illyrian and then a Roman town''', today it's one of Albania's most prominent ancient sites. | 06-25= [[File:SUHall2.jpg|right|200px]] * The '''World Globe Storage Tank''' in [[Savannah]] is a 60-foot-tall spherical gas tank, painted to look like a globe. * Silliman University Hall (''pictured'') in [[Dumaguete]] is the '''oldest U.S. structure in the Philippines still standing'''. * In a time when we drown in e-mail, a '''[[Postal service|physical postcard]]''' from far away is usually more welcome than ever. | 06-26= [[File:SUHall2.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Jerez de la Frontera]] is famous as the '''home of sherry wines''' - why not taste some if visiting? * The '''World Globe Storage Tank''' in [[Savannah]] is a 60-foot-tall spherical gas tank, painted to look like a globe. * Silliman University Hall (''pictured'') in [[Dumaguete]] is the '''oldest U.S. structure in the Philippines still standing'''. | 06-27= [[File:Playa Eréndira, Lázaro Cárdenas, Michoacán.jpg|right|200px]] * The best thing to do in [[Lazaro_Cardenas_(Michoacan)|Lazaro Cardenas]] is to '''head to the beach''' (''Playa Eréndira pictured''). * [[Jerez de la Frontera]] is famous as the '''home of sherry wines''' - why not taste some if visiting? * The '''World Globe Storage Tank''' in [[Savannah]] is a 60-foot-tall spherical gas tank, painted to look like a globe. | 06-28= [[File:Playa Eréndira, Lázaro Cárdenas, Michoacán.jpg|right|200px]] * Nupen outside [[Harstad]] is an '''excellent place to view the midnight sun''' during summer nights, and it has been named '''Norway's most romantic spot.''' * The best thing to do in [[Lazaro_Cardenas_(Michoacan)|Lazaro Cardenas]] is to '''head to the beach''' (''Playa Eréndira pictured''). * [[Jerez de la Frontera]] is famous as the '''home of sherry wines''' - why not taste some if visiting? | 06-29= [[File:Playa Eréndira, Lázaro Cárdenas, Michoacán.jpg|right|200px]] * A centre of '''alternative lifestyle and culture''', [[Nimbin]] is also widely known as a '''hub of cannabis culture''' despite it being illegal in NSW. * Nupen outside [[Harstad]] is an '''excellent place to view the midnight sun''' during summer nights, and it has been named '''Norway's most romantic spot.''' * The best thing to do in [[Lazaro_Cardenas_(Michoacan)|Lazaro Cardenas]] is to '''head to the beach''' (''Playa Eréndira pictured''). | 06-30= [[File:Ingleborough Show Cave - geograph.org.uk - 626178.jpg|right|200px]] * '''Different caves''' such as the Ingleborough Cave (''interior pictured'') are the main attractions of [[Clapham]]. * A centre of '''alternative lifestyle and culture''', [[Nimbin]] is also widely known as a '''hub of cannabis culture''' despite it being illegal in NSW. * Nupen outside [[Harstad]] is an '''excellent place to view the midnight sun''' during summer nights, and it has been named '''Norway's most romantic spot.''' }} <noinclude> {{documentation}} </noinclude> <!-- Days of one month. Copy, paste, and change the month parameter if it's not January, and delete the last parameter(s) if the month doesn't have 31 days. A text editor in your computer is handy for this, to make sure you don't edit any of the discoveries by accident. Then cut and paste discoveries from Wikivoyage:Discover#Nominations, to the days and move the whole set to the end of the queue above. | 01-1= | 01-2= | 01-3= | 01-4= | 01-5= | 01-6= | 01-7= | 01-8= | 01-9= | 01-10= | 01-11= | 01-12= | 01-13= | 01-14= | 01-15= | 01-16= | 01-17= | 01-18= | 01-19= | 01-20= | 01-21= | 01-22= | 01-23= | 01-24= | 01-25= | 01-26= | 01-27= | 01-28= | 01-29= | 01-30= | 01-31= --> 6o1fhhjko958ujf5idozdkdvcywd4zx 0 121183 5288938 5285872 2026-06-06T20:35:30Z HofEz96 2227794 /* Border crossings */ 5288938 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Cruise through New Zealand banner.jpg}} '''Driving a car''' gives a traveller more independence and flexibility than scheduled [[transportation]], such as [[air travel]], [[rail travel]], or [[bus travel]], and may be faster or more comfortable than [[Tour cycling|cycling]]. ==Understand== Driving is often the fastest mode of transportation at distances between {{convert|10|km|sigfig=1}} and {{convert|100|km|sigfig=1}}, unless there are traffic jams or the roads are in bad condition. In countries with a [[high speed rail]] network, however, driving between big cities is usually slower than using the trains. Within cities, [[public transportation]] and [[Urban cycling|cycling]] often beat cars in terms of speed, due to congestion and problems of finding parking. Over small distances even walking can be faster. You might want to find cheap parking for your car for the time you are in the city, or [[rent a car]] only when leaving for the countryside. In sparsely populated areas public transport may be infrequent or non-existent, and in difficult terrain there may be no railway. ==Legal issues== === Driver's license === [[File:Internationaler fuehrerschein 1.jpg|thumb|The IDP uses standardized vehicle classes and symbols for the classes covered.]] Most countries require you to have a valid license before you will be allowed to drive. Although this may or may not actually be enforced in the country you are visiting, you are still strongly advised not to drive without a valid license, as you could be subject to fines and possible imprisonment if caught, and insurance will not cover you in the event of an accident. In addition to having your driver's licence, you may need to satisfy age requirements, such as 18 years for driving a regular car or 21 for heavier vehicles or heavy trailers; for heavy vehicles there may be additional requirements. Most countries allow foreign licenses, especially from neighboring countries and licences that follow international standards; for example [[Canada]] and the [[USA]] accept each others' licenses, as do the [[European Union|EU]] countries. Exceptions include [[Driving in China#Licenses|China]], where a domestic driver's licence is required, and even [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] licences are not valid for driving in the mainland. If your domestic driver's licence fulfils the requirements of the international standard, it will be valid at least in countries that have signed it. If not, it is valid if accompanied by an [[:Wikipedia:International Driving Permit|International Driving Permit]] (IDP) as laid up in the convention. Some countries that have not signed the convention may nevertheless accept your licence accompanied by an IDP. There is also the ISO/IEC 18013, designed to replace the IDP, but it is not widely recognised. The IDP is issued by an authorised body; usually it can be obtained from the automobile association in your country of residence. There are many resellers on the net, not all of them recognised, see [https://internationaldrivingpermit.org a list of approved organisations]. The IDP is valid for a stay of at most a year, and at most for three years from the issuing date. If your country is not part of the convention you may be out of luck. Travellers from countries not issuing IDP may sometimes travel to countries that recognizes IDP, take an exam to obtain the local license and convert it to IDP immediately for international usage. If your stay in a country is much longer than a typical tourist's visit, you will often have to get a local license. This may involve simply exchanging your foreign license for a local one or going through the full courses and testing as a local who has no license would have to. ===Rules of the road=== Nearly all countries follow certain basic rules of the road: stop at red lights and go on green lights; obey mandatory signs; stay within lane lines; stay under the posted speed limit; do not crash into vehicles, motorcyclists, pedestrians, bicyclists, buildings, or other things; carry a license proving one has earned the right to drive; and remain at the scene of an accident. Enforcement may vary, but as a foreigner who doesn't know the details of the driving culture, you should drive defensively and follow the local rules. Other than those basic rules, everything else varies from one country to the next. Always take the time to do some research on the rules of the road where you're going. Pay close attention to everything that is different. Watch a few YouTube videos of city life and scenic drives to observe how people actually drive there. Here are a few of the most common points of divergence to research when driving in another country for the first time: * '''Left v. right''': A majority of countries drive on the right side of the road, but a substantial minority drive on the left. * '''Permissible movements at intersections''': Some countries follow the rule that all movements not prohibited are allowed, while others follow the rule that all movements not authorized are prohibited. * '''Safe distance''': A safe following distance or lane merge in one country is another country's tailgating or cutting someone off. * '''Lane restrictions''': Some lanes are limited to certain users, either all the time or during posted hours. Bus-only lanes are common in many cities. High-occupancy vehicle lanes prohibit solo drivers to encourage carpooling. * '''Turns across opposing traffic''': The majority rule is to turn across opposing traffic from a dedicated turn lane or from the through traffic lane closest to the road's centerline. The minority rule in a few countries is to veer onto the shoulder and turn across all lanes when traffic is completely clear. * '''Turn on red''': In some countries, drivers can turn at an intersection after a complete stop even if the light is red, as long as there is no sign expressly forbidding it. This is usually legal only for turns which do not intersect with crossing or opposing traffic—that is, a right turn in countries that drive on the right, and a left turn in countries that drive on the left. Details may vary across countries with this rule. In others, such turns are treated as a traffic light violation, unless explicitly allowed. * '''Traffic lights''': They can be placed either before, over the middle of, or on the far side of the intersection. When lights are before the intersection you need to stop much earlier before the limit line or crosswalk to see the light change. There may be redundant lights, which results in more visual clutter. The majority rule is that red lights are enforced at all hours. A minority of jurisdictions with very high carjacking rates tolerate red light running late at night, after drivers first slow down to verify there is no cross-traffic. * '''Flashing traffic lights''': Most countries agree that red means stop, yellow means prepare to stop, and green means go, but there is a lot of variety as to what these lights mean when they are flashing or blinking. * '''Stop v. yield''': At intersections without traffic lights all traffic may have to come to a complete stop or you merely have to yield for those with priority – which may be those on the bigger road or those coming from the right (left in countries driving on the left). Turning traffic may have to yield for everybody. Rules on implicit priority (such as in T intersections or for major roads) vary. In some countries priority at most intersections is explicitly signed. * '''Overtaking''': In some countries, you may overtake another on multi-lane highways only in lanes on the side closer to the center line (in some countries known as the fast lane) but not in lanes on the side closer to the shoulder (i.e., the slow lane). In other countries, you may overtake a vehicle on multi-lane highways on either side, or the rules may depend on specifics. * '''Motorcycles''': Lane splitting by motorcycles and other two-wheeled vehicles may be legal, illegal, or stuck in a gray area in between. * '''Priority at roundabouts''': The majority rule is that traffic entering a roundabout yields to traffic already in the roundabout. The minority rule is that traffic in the roundabout must yield to traffic entering the roundabout. In France a few roundabouts follow the latter rule, while the former is the default. * '''Daylighting''': Some jurisdictions forbid parking along the curb within a certain distance of corners, pedestrian crossings and driveways. This is to reduce collisions caused by obscuring of views of cross-traffic by parked vehicles. * '''Complex intersections and interchanges''': A driver who normally drives simple four-way intersections and T-intersections may be bewildered to encounter their first multi-lane roundabout, single-point urban interchange, or diverging diamond interchange. * '''Allowable uses of highway shoulders''': In certain countries, shoulders on high-speed highways and freeways are strictly limited to emergency parking (for vehicle breakdowns and accidents) and use as a bike lane, especially in rural areas. Those countries strictly prohibit using a highway shoulder as a waiting/pick-up/drop-off/nonemergency parking zone and as a temporary traffic lane by which slower vehicles can give way to faster vehicles. In other countries, it is common for private entrepreneurs driving vans, jeepneys, buses, or taxis to veer onto the highway shoulder to pick up or drop off passengers, or to wait for more passengers on the shoulder near major intersections. In some countries, it is a common courtesy for slower vehicles on two-lane highways to veer onto the shoulder to allow faster vehicles to overtake them without having to veer as far into opposing traffic. * '''Yield or move over for emergency vehicles''': In most countries, drivers are required to yield to and get out of the way of police, fire, and ambulance vehicles when they activate sirens and flashing lights. A few countries have adopted "move over" rules requiring drivers who encounter an emergency vehicle stopped on a highway with flashing lights to change lanes if possible, so that there will be no traffic in the lane adjacent to the emergency vehicle. If a lane change is not possible, drivers must slow down. * '''Speed limits''': Always research whether speeds are posted in miles or kilometres, because the unit is usually not indicated on speed limit signs. A notorious trap is when drivers accustomed to miles, in cars with meters showing miles per hour, drive into metric countries and see a posted speed limit of "80". Then they drive at 80 mph instead of 80 km/h, which is only 50 mph. * '''Warning signs with suggested speeds for curves''': Some countries calibrate posted speeds for the benefit of trucks prone to flipping over at high speeds. Those speeds are far too slow for cars, so local car drivers often become impatient as they follow newly-arrived tourists in rental cars who have not yet caught on. Other countries calibrate posted speeds for cars, meaning that drivers accustomed to whipping around curves at well above suggested speeds will skid out of control when they fail to slow down as suggested. * '''Safety equipment''': Depending upon the country, drivers may be required to carry a warning triangle, a reflective safety vest, a fire extinguisher, or, for drivers who need to wear prescription eyeglasses, a spare set of glasses. * '''Passenger restraints''': Depending on the country, using seat belts may be mandatory or they may be missing. Child restraints may likewise be obligatory or hard to find. The ages and/or heights for when child car seats and booster seats are mandatory also vary widely. * '''Mobile phone use while driving''': Talking on the phone while driving may be forbidden, at least if you don't have hands-free equipment. *'''Use of dashcams''': In some countries, dashcams are prohibited on the ground of invasion of privacy. In other countries dashcams are legal and widely used. In the latter group, local police sometimes invite drivers to come forward if their dashcams may have captured information relating to an accident or crime. * '''Headlights and signal (blinker) use''': Some jurisdictions mandate headlight or daytime running lamp use at all hours, even in daylight on a clear day at midday. There is also much variety as to what situations and how often direction indicators and hazard lights are used – in some countries every lane change must be signalled, or hazard lights may be allowed only in emergencies. If your vehicle's headlights and rear lights are controlled automatically, check that they work as expected. Rear lights may not automatically activate in all conditions where they are important (fog, snow, or rain in daytime). * '''Snow tires''': In winter, several countries require drivers to put winter tires or snow tires on their vehicles. Studded winter tires or snow chains may or may not be allowed. * '''Toll collection''': There are a great many electronic toll collection schemes, but interoperability remains severely limited or non-existent. Drivers on long road trips may have to acquire multiple transponders or tags, deal with a variety of payment apps or web sites, or simply avoid routes where the time saved is not worth the hassle of paying electronic tolls. Tolls may be collected for highways, bridges, tunnels or city centres. * '''Ferries''': When there is no bridge or tunnel available, you may need to take a car ferry to transport your vehicle over a body of water. Ferry operators vary widely as to whether they are free or not free, depart frequently or only at scheduled times, and allow you to stay in your vehicle or require you to exit the vehicle deck and stay on upper decks for the duration of the journey. * '''Pollution/congestion control restrictions''': Certain cities, especially in Europe and Asia, have banned entire classes of vehicles in city centres to control pollution and reduce traffic congestion. These restrictions are usually applicable to specific zones in the city centre during specific hours and days of the week during specific parts of the year, and may also depend upon whether a numeric digit in a vehicle's license plate number is an even or odd number. Violations may lead to substantial fines, not just tolls. * '''Bicyclists and pedestrians''': What rules apply to bicyclists and pedestrians and how disciplined they are varies wildly between countries. Watch out for them. In some countries the vehicle driver is always deemed to be at fault in a collision with them. ===Traffic signs=== {{multiple image | align = right | total_width = 200 | image1 = MUTCD W3-6.svg | alt1 = A diamond-shaped with yellow background and black border, with the words "Draw Bridge" | image2 = Vienna Convention road sign Ab-5-V1.svg | alt2 = A diamond-shaped with yellow background and black border, with a symbol of an open draw bridge | image3 = France road sign A6.svg | alt3 = A triangle with white background and red border, with a symbol of an open draw bridge | footer = The draw bridge warning sign is one of the several signs that remain text-only in the U.S.A. (left), while its equivalents under the Vienna Convention (right) display a symbol of an open draw bridge. }} {{multiple image | align = right | total_width = 200 | image1 = MUTCD R3-3.svg | image2 = Brasil_R-26.svg | image3 = IE_road_sign_RUS-004.svg | footer = Straight ahead only, no turns allowed: U.S.A. (left), Brazil (center) and Vienna (right). The Vienna convention uses a category of mandatory instructions, in most countries round signs with white symbols on blue background (the Brazilian variant is an option). }} About half of the world, including most of Europe and Central Asia, and parts of Africa, follows the 1968 Vienna conventions on road traffic and on signs and signals (developed by the UN, based on the European tradition). If you are used to driving in one such country, most signs and rules will be familiar. The signs in these countries are mostly pictograms, which require no knowledge of the language. The meaning of some symbols may still not be self-evident, and additional signs may be textual, such as a parking sign having an addition of "residents only". Those who are not concerned by the main sign should not need to understand the auxiliary signs. China is not a signatory to the Vienna convention but uses a system that is very similar. You need a Chinese driving licence in China. Another important standard is the domestic US standard, the ''Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices'', which has influenced much of the world. Australia, Canada and Mexico follow a system modeled after the US tradition, which for regulatory signs and warning signs relies more heavily on text in the respective national languages. South America, South-East Asia, Ireland, Japan and New Zealand use different adaptions and mixtures of both the above traditions. Guide signs are one of the biggest points of divergence. Most countries use green guide signs on highways because studies have found that green is the most visually pleasing option for the majority of drivers who can see that color. Some countries prefer blue guide signs to be considerate to disabled persons with red-green colorblindness, to whom green guide signs may appear hideous. Many countries in Asia and some in Europe and Africa do not use the Latin alphabet. Some of them provide transliterations below native names on most guide signs. However, even those who normally provide them may not provide them consistently, and may not provide transliterations or translations on other types of signs, such as mandatory instruction or warning signs. If a country uses too many untranslated mandatory signs to memorize in advance, then let others do the driving. === Enforcement === The police may be more or less visible, and there may be several authorities dealing with vehicles on the road. Usually, if somebody tries to stop you, the default is that you should comply. However, in some countries fake police, other roadside scams or outright robbery are common – see country articles. There may be roadblocks for random checks. In some countries, police in cars may stop you by a special red and blue light without first overtaking; stop at first opportunity. As you are stopped, police often asks to see your and your car's papers, and there may be a sobriety breath test, regardless of whether you are suspected of anything. In countries with widespread armed criminality, police may be concerned about their own safety, and you should be very careful not to do sudden moves or anything unexpected – it could be interpreted as reaching for a gun (in your pocket or elsewhere). This applies also to mostly orderly countries like the USA. To be calm and polite may pay anywhere. Don't try to leave before the police tells you to. In some countries, fines are usually paid directly to the police. Where bribery is common, this includes "fines" for misdemeanors you did not commit. In other countries, you just get a ticket, to be paid at the police office or some other place or as a bank transfer. Tickets may be directly delivered to the owner of the car (which may be your car rental company). There is much variation as to whether traffic enforcement cameras are allowed or banned, stationary or mobile, publicized or secret, signed or unsigned, deliberately hidden or prominently positioned, and what exactly they are allowed to enforce. In some countries, they can be used to enforce only speed limits or red lights, in others they are used to enforce a wide array of rules. AI may be used to find the misdemeanors and in some countries tickets are issued automatically, in others a human must manually review the recorded evidence. == Insurance policies == Check your insurance; not all policies cover international travel and even those that do may not meet the requirements of a destination's regulations. You ''really'' do not want to find yourself having to appear in court because of an accident your insurance did not cover, especially when the court may be far from your home or may operate in a foreign language. Nor do you want bills your insurance does not cover, whether auto repair, legal or medical. If you are driving across an international border, you may need to purchase additional insurance. Whether or not your insurance is valid in a neighbouring country depends on which specific country you are driving into. For instance, U.S. insurance will typically cover you for driving into Canada but not Mexico, and Malaysian insurance will typically cover you for driving into Singapore or Brunei but not Thailand or Indonesia. Even if your insurance covers you in the country you are driving into, that country may still insist that you purchase insurance from a local provider. Most countries mandate that you have at least third party liability insurance to be allowed to drive legally. However, the minimum coverage for this insurance vary greatly between jurisdiction; for instance, in Australia, compulsory third party insurance is only required to cover medical expenses, while in the United States, some states only require coverage for property damage (though in such states, it is mandatory for your insurance to cover your own medical expenses), while others require coverage for both medical expenses and property damage. For additional peace of mind, it is highly advisable that you obtain comprehensive insurance coverage that covers all of the above, as well as stolen vehicles and damage to your own vehicle. In most developed countries, you just need to liaise with your own insurance company, who will liaise with the other party on your behalf. The exception is the United States, where you are responsible for liaising with the other party's insurance company by yourself if they were at fault, or suing them for damages if they were uninsured (though you can purchase coverage for accidents with uninsured drivers for an additional premium). == Car rental == {{main|Car rental}} Renting a car is often more practical than bringing your own, but there are many things to watch out for. Check the small print and make sure to note initial condition of the car, not to be told to pay for earlier damage. You usually pay per day (although long rentals may be cheaper), so you might want to plan on having a car just certain days. In many cases the requirements for driving a rental car are higher than for a driver's license in and of itself. For example, there may be a higher age limit or the rental company may require a certain number of years of experience driving. If you have renewed you license recently, it might be wise to keep the old one to prove that you have, in fact, been driving for a longer time. ==Transmission== While in [[North America]], [[Middle East]], [[East Asia]], [[Oceania]] and [[Southeast Asia]], most of the cars have automatic transmissions, in [[Europe]], and [[South America]] most of the cars have manual transmissions, although in the wealthier countries in Europe, there is a gradual transition to automatic vehicles in the 2020s. Small European car rental agencies may not have any vehicles with automatic transmissions, and even at international rental agencies, supply of automatic vehicles can be limited to large and luxury vehicles. == On the road == === Border crossings === [[File:2018-StallerSattelW.jpg|thumb|Passing from Austria to Italy by the Staller Pass: no border formalities, but driving in the mountains can be a challenge – and some roads are engineering feats. At 2,052 m, this pass is closed in winter, and due to the narrow road prohibited for caravans.]] Some borders may be no problem to cross with your own car, but many rental contracts forbid driving to certain neighboring countries or even some regions and jurisdictions of the same country. For example, most rental agencies in the [[United States]] will not allow you to drive to the Mexico, but will allow you to drive to Canada They may also prohibit you from driving to places with extreme climate at certain times of the year, such as [[Death Valley National Park]] during the summer. You may also need more documentation than at home, e.g. proving ownership. Often you need a sign showing the nationality of your car. At some borders, you need to change the side of the road that you drive on. Bringing a vehicle into some countries requires a [[Carnet de Passages]]; like the IDP this is usually obtained from the automobile association in your home country. ===Driving on the other side of the road=== [[File:Countries driving on the left or right.svg|539x539px|thumb|Countries driving on the left (blue) or right (red)]] {{nowrap|Driving in a}} country where traffic moves on the opposite side of the road takes a bit of getting used to, but lots of people manage it when they drive abroad, and you can too. If driving on the left (right), remember to make tight left (right) turns and wide right (left) turns, and to pass/overtake on the right (left). Generally, countries that drive on the left use cars where the driver sits on the right side of the car, and vice versa. This puts the driver closer to the center of the road for better visibility. The windshield wiper controls and turn signals are typically on reversed sides depending on which side of the car the driver's seat is on. When you're still getting used to it, you'll probably turn the windshield wipers on by mistake a few times when you're trying to hit the turn signals. The brake and accelerator are ''not'' reversed; the brake is on the left and accelerator is on the right regardless. Likewise, the shift pattern stays the same regardless of the position of the driver, so in most manual transmission vehicles the first gear is to the left and forwards, the second gear is to the left and backwards, and so on. Staying centered in your lane can be a challenge – drivers from right-side countries who are used to sitting on the left side of the vehicle will tend to instinctively veer to the left when sitting on the right side of a vehicle, and vice versa. Try looking through your side mirrors to get a sense of how close you are to the lines. ===Motion sickness=== [[Motion sickness]] is most likely to affect children and young people. Vulnerable individuals should get medication, or at least keep eyesight on the outdoor environment. === Road conditions === Road conditions and driving habits vary from country to country and between regions. If you will drive in winter or in mountains, check implications of [[winter driving]]. If you may be using unpaved roads or roads in bad condition, check what to expect, and also the fine print of your insurance and rental contracts. In sparsely inhabited areas navigating may involve some challenges and breaking down or losing your way is worse than near people. Have and use a map, and make sure your [[GPS navigation|GPS]] will work as expected. === Fuel === Fuel '''prices''' vary considerably from one country to the next. Fuel is often cheap in oil-producing countries, but this relationship is not so straightforward: Norway is a big oil producer with some of the world's highest prices for petrol, while in the car-crazed USA, keeping retail gasoline prices down is politically important. Because of different taxation across borders, filling up before crossing or getting over the border before filling up can save you money. Don't gamble with the last liters though. When renting a car, you might want to know how thirsty your first choice is. In the USA this is measured as ''miles per gallon'', while in most of Europe the measure is ''litres per 100 km''. In the former case you want a big figure (such as 53), in the latter a small one (such as 4.5). Typical fuel efficiency varies between countries, as does what kind of driving is assumed for the measures, and the testing procedure itself (unified across the [[European Union|EU]] though). Fuel '''quality''' also varies, and what different qualities are called. In many countries you can buy a type that suits your car where it is cheapest, while in others you may want to stick to the most reputable chains. Diesel is commonly cheaper due to lower taxation in some European countries but it may be rare or unavailable in other countries. You can't drive a gasoline car with diesel or vice versa. The type of service in fuel stations differs: * '''Full service''' — An attendant operates the pumps, often wipes the windshield, and sometimes checks the vehicle's oil level and tire pressure, then collects payment and perhaps a small tip. * '''Minimum service''' — An attendant operates the pumps. In some countries self-service is prohibited. * '''Self service''' — The customer performs all required service. Signs informing the customer of filling procedures and cautions are displayed on each pump. In countries with low crime rates, customers are still allowed to pump first and then pay a cashier for the price of the fuel actually pumped. Otherwise, customers may be required to pay first before they pump, either by preauthorizing a credit or debit card or depositing cash with a cashier. * '''Unstaffed''' — Using cardlock (or pay-at-the-pump) system, these are completely unstaffed. Self-service stations are found in many developed high-wage countries like the United States, Canada and much of Europe, while full-service stations are commonly found (and are sometimes the only type of fuel station available) in many developing countries. There are several jurisdictions that do not allow self-service at gas stations for safety reasons – station attendants '''must''' be the ones to pump gas. These include [[Brazil]], [[China]], [[Turkey]], [[South Africa]], [[Uruguay]], [[North Korea]], a few other developing countries, and the state of [[New Jersey]] in the United States. === Parking === Parking can be a hassle, especially in cities. Parking rules differ between countries. A violation may result in a hefty fine, a "boot" on your car tire, or seeing your car towed away. Parking locations include curbside spaces, parking lots at ground level, and multi-level parking garages which may be above-ground, below-ground, or both. Some parking facilities do not charge for parking. Parking time may still be limited. For free curbside parking [[Driving in Europe#Costs|in European cities]], a parking disc – a clock-like ticket which indicates parking time – is often used. It can often be acquired from various retail locations, kiosks, gas stations, and police stations. At facilities that do charge, payment schemes vary considerably: * A valet takes the car from you at the entrance and hands you a ticket. When you return, you present the ticket to the valet, who demands payment and retrieves your car. * An attendant demands payment at the facility entrance. * An attendant roams the facility on foot and demands payment from drivers as they park. * A parking meter charges for time to occupy a particular space. It is often used for curbside parking in American cities. * A vending machine either issues a timed receipt to be placed on your car dashboard, or the machine records your license plate number and then issues a receipt which you can keep with you. * The facility has entrance and exit gates and you must push a button to take a ticket to open the entrance gate. Upon return, you insert the ticket into a vending machine and pay for the time used, then insert the ticket into a reader to open the exit gate. * The entrance gate has a camera which automatically reads your license plate number. Upon return, you pay by that number at a vending machine. The exit gate will open automatically after its camera recognizes your license plate number and verifies that you already paid. * The parking facility has signs for QR codes which cause a smartphone to connect to a web site or app where one may pay for parking. * By app. You install the app and add your license plate number and credit cards details. When parking, you tell the app where you parked and how long you are going to stay. You may have the option of later prolonging or shortening your parking time. === Accidents and breakdowns === {{see also|Tips for road trips#If you break down}} In case of accident, practices differ. Check up on whether you are expected to stay at the site until police have arrived and interviewed you. In some countries you are obliged to stop to help if you see an accident, in others the accident is probably a scam and stopping might be dangerous. Before doing anything else, secure your own safety: activate the hazard lights, put on your reflective vest and have somebody put the warning triangle at an appropriate distance. If you had a breakdown and want help from passing cars, lifting your motorhood can do the trick, regardless of your actual problem. You might be able to call an [[Automobile associations|automobile association]] for help. In severe cases, to secure the victims' breathing and to call for help are essential. In any case, watch out for airbags that weren't triggered, but may be at any time, and be aware that electric cars may run forward with no warning, if the driver happens to move their foot. Cars catching fire and exploding is reasonably rare. New cars (since 2018 in the EU) may have an eCall button, to get the car to call emergency services (which it already did if it registered the accident). Don't rely on the automatics though, speak to them yourself. If you don't have a phone or it doesn't get signal, in some countries there are emergency phones in tunnels and along some highways. Even if you are not legally required to, it is always a good idea to report any traffic accidents to the local police as soon as possible, as insurance companies will often need a timely police report to process your claim. If there are no injuries and the vehicles involved can be driven safely, you can usually just drive to the nearest police station to lodge the report. Before doing that, make sure you document the scene thoroughly by taking time-stamped photos of the scene from as many angles as possible, as well as photos of damage to all vehicles involved. Also be sure to exchange information with all drivers involved; at minimum you should get their contact details, as well as photos of their driver's licence, vehicle registration plate number and proof of insurance that displays the policy number. In case of [[Wildlife accidents|wildlife collisions]], in some countries you are required to report them to the emergency services even when no people were hurt. Note the place: landmarks, distance from last known place, coordinates (from your GPS). In some countries it is common practice to mark the place to make it easy to find. If the animal might be dangerous (a bear, a boar or the like), drive a bit further before doing the marking and tell the distance when reporting the accident. Don't try to kill a severed animal by yourself unless you are sure you can do it properly. ==Destinations== === Africa === In Africa, most transport infrastructure is not developed, and it is hard to get around, even by car, in many places of Africa. Continued political instability and frequent regime changes in Africa will further underfund new road construction in Africa. If you do wish to drive in African countries, North African countries and South Africa do have generally good road networks in urban areas, but in many other countries in Africa, driving can be dangerous due to the poor condition of many road networks. ==== Morocco ==== {{main|Driving in Morocco}} Comparatively easy to get to from Europe, by ferry from Spain. The mountains and deserts can be explored by car. Note temporary car import bureaucracy. The signs are similar to those in most of Europe; text is usually in French and Arabic. ==== Nigeria ==== [[Nigeria#By car|Nigeria]] is not part of the most standard international Road Traffic Convention and as such will require either the Nigerian license or a ''special'' International Driving Permit valid only for driving in Nigeria, Somalia and Iraq – not the common IDP. ==== Réunion ==== {{main|Driving in Réunion}} Many of Réunion's natural attractions, including its pitons, cirques and mountains, are accessible only by car. Public transport operates only in cities. ==== South Africa ==== {{main|Driving in South Africa}} South Africa is quite a large country, and a lot of the attractions are in rural areas. Therefore, public transport isn't good everywhere, and driving is popular. === Asia === New road construction has not always kept up with growing traffic, and congestion is a major problem, especially in urban centers. Still, a car is often a good and sometimes the only way to explore more remote areas. Bringing a car might necessitate a number of forms and permits; you will probably need an international driving permit and for some countries a Carnet de Passages for the vehicle. Mainland China requires their own driving licence. In East Asia (countries like [[China]], [[Japan]], and [[South Korea]]), many places have good public transport and rail travel systems, and [[high-speed rail]] is often the preferred mode of intercity travel within a country in East Asia, so there is usually no need to drive. Southeast Asian countries (excluding Singapore) have a strong car culture; while public transport is available in large cities, a car is a preferred way to get around elsewhere (only Singapore has an extensive and good public transport system). In South Asia (countries like [[India]] and [[Bangladesh]]), as well as in West Asia (countries like [[Israel]] and [[Jordan]]), popular intercity bus systems serve most destinations of interest and buses are preferred a form of public transport there, but in some West Asian countries like [[United Arab Emirates]] and [[Saudi Arabia]], strong car culture does occur. In Central Asia, transport infrastructure, such as highways, are underdeveloped, and travelling by car is challenging. All of Asia is part of Asian Highway Network, the Asian continent counterpart of the European network or the Interstate Highway System. While a number of countries in Central Asia, such as Uzbekistan, are part of European route network, road signs in many Asian countries do not identify E-routes. Some, such as North Korea and Turkey, do not identify AH-routes. ==== China ==== {{main|Driving in China}} You must have a Chinese license to drive in China. Driving in China is also chaotic, so it is often wise to hire a driver or take taxis to get around. If you do want to drive in China, though, a lot of information about how others drive is very useful. China's major cities generally have good public transportation networks, so you are highly advised to make use of those instead when possible. ===== Hong Kong ===== {{main|Driving in Hong Kong}} Hong Kong has the highest use of public transport anywhere in the world and its public transport network is among the world's best. As a result, rental cars are rare and parking is expensive and difficult to find, especially in Hong Kong's centre and in [[Hong Kong/Kowloon|Kowloon]], and is also susceptible to frequent traffic jams. You can get almost everywhere by buses, trains or ferries. A car is useful only in rural areas such as parts of the [[Hong Kong/New Territories|New Territories]]. ==== India ==== {{main|Driving in India}} The rail network of [[India]] is the third largest in the world, and the rail system is efficient, if not always on schedule. Tracks running well over 60,000 km help connect over 7,500 stations, ferrying nearly 20 million people every day and connect major cities like [[Mumbai]], [[Delhi]], [[Hyderabad]] and [[Pune]]. However, driving a car or taking India's extensive network of buses can be done especially where railways do not operate, especially needing your car to go to the countryside, or using India's extensive network of buses to get to destinations like Sarbhan. When driving in India, it is best to avoid driving in major cities. Traffic accidents are very common, including driver deaths, especially in major cities. Wrong-way driving, potholes, overloading and speeding are very common issues. Also, the pollution caused by cars and other private vehicles are a severe problem. ==== Indonesia ==== {{main|Driving in Indonesia}} Driving in [[Indonesia]] is generally not recommended due to atrocious driving habits and variable infrastructure, but doable. While high-speed toll roads exist across [[Java]] and [[Sumatra]], and in parts of [[Bali]], [[Kalimantan]] and [[Sulawesi]], most other highways in Indonesia are two-lane paved roads with homes and businesses by the roadside. Road signs are a mix of European and American standards. While there is a strong car culture, the most common vehicle in Indonesia is the motorcycle. Congestion is a serious problem especially in [[Jakarta]], and the highways can become congested during the Eid al-Fitr exodus (''mudik''). ==== Israel ==== Israel's extensive network of buses is all you'll need to get to well-known destinations like [[Tel Aviv]] and [[Jerusalem]], and even smaller towns usually see some service, though it may be less frequent. Local public transport in Israel is also generally good, but Israeli rail travel services are generally lacking (Israeli rail services generally serve Tel Aviv and surrounding areas only). However, when going to places like the countryside, small towns that are poorly served by public transport or intercity bus travel, or lesser-known destinations, a car may be useful, but try to avoid destinations like the Palestinian-controlled [[Gaza Strip]] as they are war zones. If you wish to drive in Israel, stay up-to-date with the current security situation and follow the travel advisories first on which destinations to avoid, then get an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an Israeli licence (the latter option is for permanent residents), and you may rent a car. ==== Japan ==== {{main|Driving in Japan}} With an efficient and very punctual rail network, driving in Japan is not necessary but doable, especially when going into rural destinations public transport doesn't cover well. ==== Kazakhstan ==== The transport infrastructure of Kazakhstan is underdeveloped, and it is mostly hard to get around, even with a car. That being said, a car is necessary to get around smaller cities and the countryside in Kazakhstan, but the roads can be in poor condition, due to many of the roads not being paved since the Soviet times. Road signs do follow international conventions and are inherited from the Soviet times. If you do road trips in Kazakhstan, don't expect any locals to speak any language other than Kazakh or Russian. ==== Macau ==== Macau, part of China, has very limited space when it comes into driving; you should not drive in Macau. Instead, punctual buses should be used instead of driving whenever possible. ==== Malaysia ==== {{main|Driving in Malaysia}} Since public transport is usually not good in Malaysia, cars are very popular, and most Malaysians drive to get around. That said, [[Kuala Lumpur]] is now served by a decent public transportation network that covers most of the main tourist sites. A car is also useful for crossing from Malaysia into Thailand, as neighbouring Thailand has infrequent public transport outside of major cities, though you will need to purchase additional insurance. However, driving a rental car from Malaysia into Singapore is not recommended, as most rental companies prohibit it, and even those that allow it will charge you extra to do so, and will not allow you to drop the car off in Singapore. Singapore has a good public transportation network, and can be reached from Malaysia by bus or train. If you are coming from Singapore, you should only pick up your rental car after crossing the border into Malaysia. ==== North Korea ==== Private transport is strictly forbidden in North Korea. All your transport needs will be dealt with by your tour company. Most of the time this means buses, although tour groups visiting remote sites (e.g. [[Paekdusan]], Mount Chilbo) occasionally use chartered flights by Air Koryo. Wandering around on your own (including driving your own car) is not allowed, and you are required to have a guide to escort you at all times. ==== Pakistan ==== Although Pakistan has a strong car culture, it is generally not recommended to drive in Pakistan. Many drivers are untrained and unlicensed, and driver aggression is common there. Drivers frequently disregard speed limits, stop signs and traffic lights. If you do wish to get around Pakistan by car, make sure you choose a good driver, or consider training and licencing before renting a car instead (but before renting a car, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a Pakistani driving licence). ==== Philippines ==== {{main|Driving in the Philippines}} Almost all foreign travellers can drive in the Philippines up to three months, where applying for a Philippine driver's license is necessary for long-term stays. As a former American colony, the Philippines has a vibrant car culture, though there are more motorcycles than cars and rental motorcycles are much common than rental cars. Major highways may be up to international standards, but roads can be narrow and congested, and take you to the middle of villages and towns. Driving in the Philippines is nerve-racking, with reckless passing, speeding and dangerous lane changes, and motorcyclists anywhere. Most large cities have good public transportation (trains, buses, jeepneys), and there is a good network of airlines and buses for long-distance travel: visitors are suggested to take them instead. ==== Russia ==== {{main|Driving in Russia}} Russia is the largest country in the world, and many of the areas, including many metropolitan areas, are poorly served by all means of transport, even by car. While a car is necessary to get around the countryside and small to medium-sized cities, it's best to know where you're going so you don't end up on routes like the [[Kolyma Highway]]; minor and remote roads may be in very bad shape. ==== South Korea ==== {{main|Driving in South Korea}} South Korea is home to the automobile companies Kia and Hyundai, both of which have a worldwide presence. Although intercity rail and intercity bus systems in South Korea serve most parts of the country, in some areas, a car may be needed, especially in areas where public transport is not available. ==== Thailand ==== {{main|Driving in Thailand}} Thailand has a strong car culture, but beware that traffic jams can occur in Bangkok and other large cities. [[Bangkok]] has a decent public transportation network that covers all the main tourist destinations, and you are advised to use that when possible. ==== Vietnam ==== {{main|Driving in Vietnam}} In Vietnam, a car is essential to get around in smaller cities and the countryside. However, much of the country's road network is in poor condition, causing a high rate of accidents. Any communication with police and emergency services may be difficult without knowing a bit of Vietnamese. As a communist country, the government prefers public transport over private transport, but many places in Vietnam are poorly served by public transport. Even in big cities, public transport is not good and is subjected to overcrowding, but [[Hanoi]] and [[Ho Chi Minh City]] now have their first metro lines. Vietnam follows the 1968 Vienna conventions, like, for example, most of Europe and Central Asia, so most rules and signs will be familiar to those who have driven there. === Europe === {{main|Driving in Europe}} Europe generally has good road networks, although high population density means that there can be a lot of other cars on the road, making driving more difficult, and there are remote areas where roads are in bad condition. Driving in cities is often problematic and there is good public transportation, so a car is usually needed only for the countryside. In most countries the signs and rules follow the 1968 Vienna conventions. *[[Driving in Denmark]] *[[Driving in Finland]] *[[Driving in France]] *[[Driving in Germany]] *[[Driving in Iceland]] *[[Driving in Italy]] *[[Driving in Norway]] *[[Driving in Poland]] *[[Driving in Portugal]] *[[Driving in Russia]] *[[Driving in Spain]] *[[Driving in Sweden]] *[[Driving in Switzerland]] *[[Driving in the United Kingdom]] === Oceania === In Oceania, especially in Australia and New Zealand, road networks are in good condition. Most adults in Oceania drive to get around their respective cities. ==== Australia ==== {{main|Driving in Australia}} Australia has a strong car culture, and most adult Australians drive to get around their respective cities. While public transportation is available in the larger cities, a car is essential to get around in smaller cities and the countryside. Much of Australia's population lives in a relatively small area on the southeast coast, and travel between the southeastern coastal cities of [[Brisbane]], [[Sydney]] and [[Melbourne]] is possible if you have a few days or longer. However, to get to [[Perth]], you have to travel great distances across Australia's outback country. The traffic signs are similar to the US MUTCD. ====New Caledonia==== {{main|Driving in New Caledonia}} Many of the world's best scuba diving sites can only be reached by car, and a car is also necessary to explore the mountain ranges of Grande Terre. ==== New Zealand ==== {{main|Driving in New Zealand}} Cars are very popular in New Zealand, and a car is necessary if you want to see New Zealand's beautiful countryside. New Zealand uses a mixture of the US standard and the Vienna conventions in its signage. *[[Buying or renting a vehicle in New Zealand]] *[[Renting a motorhome in New Zealand]] === North America === Although Germany is the birthplace of the automobile and its inventor, Karl Benz, the United States is the first country to embrace consumerist car culture. With American influence, car culture spread north to Canada, and south into Mexico and Central America, and as a result, most adults in North America (generally in Canada, United States, Mexico) drive to get around their respective cities. If you do not want to drive, popular intercity bus systems (like Greyhound for example) serve most destinations of interest (but be careful that there is little security), as much of the rail network in North America is generally built for freight (although passenger rail travel is experiencing a revival in North America starting in the 2020s). The United States is also the birthplace of MUTCD, which has influenced road signage across the Western Hemisphere, including North America. ==== Canada ==== {{main|Driving in Canada}} Like its neighbour to the south, Canada has a strong car culture. As Canada is rather sparsely populated, cars are necessary to get around the countryside and small to medium-sized cities. Most of Canada's roads are in the south, due to the low population density and extremely cold weather in the north. ==== Mexico ==== {{main|Driving in Mexico}} Mexico has a strong car culture like its neighbour to the north. Cars are necessary to get around the countryside and small to medium-sized cities. ==== United States ==== {{main|Driving in the United States}} The United States is the country where cars dominate the most, and must be used if you want to get the best idea of the American countryside, its history, and important destinations throughout. Since the United States is large, especially when compared to its population, there are opportunities to "hit the road" and be far from busy highways, or opportunities to get off the road altogether. With very few exceptions, even major cities like [[Los Angeles]], [[Detroit]], [[Miami]] and [[Houston]] tend to be poorly served by public transport, and having a car is generally the best way to get around. The contiguous United States has good and well-maintained network of Interstate Highways, making it a breeze to drive between nearby major cities. * [[Off-roading in California]] * [[Off-highway vehicle riding in Oregon]] === South America === Popular intercity bus systems serve most destinations of interest, but by car you can reach also places that aren't served (or are badly served) by public transport. Expect busy traffic in large cities and extremely variable road conditions in the countryside. For traffic rules and signs, most countries in South America have adopted some mixture of the US standards and the UN ones (the 1968 Vienna conventions). To what degree they follow each varies. ==== Argentina ==== {{main|Driving in Argentina}} You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an Argentinian licence to drive in Argentina. As Argentina is a large country, even metropolitan areas like [[Mar del Plata]] and [[Tucumán]] are poorly served by public transport (other than intercity buses), so consider driving to experience the beauty of most of Argentina. ==== Brazil ==== {{main|Driving in Brazil}} In Brazil, there is a strong car culture, due to the poor quality of public transport in most major cities. A car is preferred to get around Brazil outside of major cities. ==== Chile ==== {{main|Driving in Chile}} Chile is a country where getting the driving license is the most difficult phase. You need to proof that you have the national identification number and you have completed basic studies in order to obtain a Chilean driving licence. ==== Paraguay ==== There is a large extensive network of highways in Paraguay; Paraguay is good for driving, especially where buses do not operate. ==== Peru ==== As Peru lacks any high-speed rail lines, the country's extensive network of buses, or driving a car, are generally the only ways to get around Peru. A car is more recommended for exploring the countryside, as public transport may be less frequent in many parts of rural Peru. International Driving Permits are accepted, as are some foreign licenses depending on the country. ==== Uruguay ==== Uruguay's extensive network of buses is all you'll need to get to well-known destinations like [[Colonia]], [[Montevideo]], and [[Punta del Este]], and even smaller towns usually see some service, though it may be less frequent. But a car is useful for exploring the countryside, and for avoiding time-consuming connections when traveling around the country's interior (most bus lines radiate out from Montevideo). International Driving Permits are accepted, as are some foreign licenses depending on the country. ==== Venezuela ==== A large and paved road network (which comprises approx. 82,000 km) make Venezuela an attractive country for exploring with your own car. Many roads are in good condition but there are also gravel and dirt roads for which an off-road vehicle is recommended – especially during the rainy season from May to October. If you do wish to drive in Venezuela, consider knowing some Spanish. ==Stay safe== {{multiple image | align = right | footer = In some areas you have to look out for [[Animal collisions|wildlife and livestock]]. | image1 = Slovenia road sign IV-15.svg | width1 = 100 | caption1 = Frogs | image2 = MUTCD-CA SW59.svg | width2 = 80 | caption2 = Bears | image3 = Vienna Convention road sign Aa-15a-V1-LHT.svg | width3 = 90 | caption3 = Cows }} Road safety differs between countries, but most of what you learnt in the driving school is equally relevant abroad. You may want to remind yourself of some advice you haven't had use for where you usually drive. If the climate, road conditions, driving culture or other circumstances differ from what you are used to, you might need to read up on and even practise some measures, such as how to handle slippery conditions or to keep an eye open for wildlife. In some regions, roads may be of very bad quality, with potholes or damaged sections with no warnings, in some the climate poses a challenge, in some reckless driving is common. With proper preparation, some of the dangers can be mitigated or minimised, and in some countries, it may be better to leave the driving to the locals. Avoid unsealed roads if possible, particularly of those close to the equator. A general rule is to always behave predictably: use turn signals, never turn by a sudden thought, never suddenly accelerate when approaching a crossroads. That way others can compensate for things you do oddly. At home you can get away with less carefulness, but the less familiar the environment, the bigger the risks. === Drugs === [[Alcoholic beverages|Alcohol]], [[cannabis]], some [[medication]] and some other substances share the common characteristic that they may reduce drivers' attention. No matter why you take them, ''never'' drive when you have recently taken them. You can request your friend or hire a designated driver. ===Bicycles=== [[File:Hong Kong road sign 260 A.svg|thumb|upright=0.5|Beware of bicycles. Sign from [[Hong Kong]].]] {{seealso|Urban cycling}} If you are unused to bicycles, watch out! Rules differ by country, but there are several dangerous situations. The main thing is that you should behave predictably and look for them – if you only look for cars before turning or opening a door, you may kill a fast cyclist you didn't notice. In city traffic, cyclists may well be faster than you. Often they use the right edge of the road or lane, and especially when you slow down to turn or park, they may close in in no time. Make sure to use your blinkers and to specifically look for them. Never forget one you see, thinking they are too far away to matter. Always check for cyclists before opening a door. In some countries, cyclists may be allowed to use the left side of the road (or cycle in the opposite direction on unidirectional roads) and thus surprise you. Sometimes they do even if not allowed to. An especially hazardous situation is when there is a bidirectional cycleway on your side of a street you are going to cross. Remember to look also for those to your right on the cycleway. (The other way around where you drive to the left). In countries were cycling is common, you often have several categories: old or less fit people cycling at jogging speed and those racing faster than city car traffic. Some may follow rules precisely, and trust you to do the same, while others may be totally ignorant. Don't trust your first impression of biking in the country. ===Animals=== If there are animals on the roads, mind that they don't know traffic rules and may behave unpredictably, especially if startled. In countries where animals on the road are rare, you may still encounter a rider with a horse. Make sure you overtake with wide enough margins not to startle the horse. Until you can overtake, keep a generous distance. Don't use your horn and avoid other noise, such as by accelerating quickly (the noise from brakes using compressed air). Sometimes the rider may signal their intentions, and they may let you pass at a time and spot of their choosing. ===Fatigue=== Fatigue can be fatal. If you are driving for many hours in a row, take a break to get some fresh air, stretch your legs and most importantly switch off from driving for a bit. If you drive into the night or early morning, not only is it more dangerous due to it being dark but there is every chance you can start to nod off. If you leave early in the morning or don't have a lot of sleep before heading out, you should be aware that you may not be at your sharpest. Caffeine can only help so much: the only real cure for fatigue is sleep. In developed countries, it is common for drivers on long-distance journeys to pull over at roadside rest areas or parking lots to take a brief nap for an hour or two, then resume driving once they feel refreshed. In areas with high violent crime rates, especially in developing countries, some drivers also take such roadside naps, but they are not recommended because of the risk of being attacked while asleep. When driving in such areas, you should plan on driving only when you are certain you can stay wide awake through your planned itinerary for a given day, and you should also plan on diverting to a hotel or motel in a reasonably safe area if you become too drowsy to drive. ===Phone=== Most people use their phones to navigate. Do not let your phone distract you. A dashboard-mounted phone holder will help minimize hazards arising from navigating or talking on the phone. Talking over the phone, taking a look at the map or changing a setting still distracts you; pull over for anything that requires looking away from the road for more than half a second, and if you use those half-seconds often, you'd better take a break or find a human navigator. Sometimes talking helps with fatigue or is otherwise necessary. Make sure you can ignore the phone at any moment to concentrate on driving – if your talking companion doesn't understand that need, don't talk to them while driving. Likewise, small talk keeps you awake, while anything that upsets you or requires serious thinking is away from your concentration. ===Crime=== In some areas, automotive vandalism or theft can be quite common. To mitigate risk, keep your doors locked when you are away from the car or when the car is in motion, and the windows up when possible. Keep valuables on your person, or out of view in the trunk or glovebox if that is not practical. In some areas, criminals may try to siphon off gas from your car, install credit card skimmers at gas station pumps, or offer to "protect" your parked car for a fee (and damage your car if you park there without paying them). Some more modern cars are equipped with anti-theft systems that can send an alert to your phone if it detects unusual activity – but if you are a bit farther away, professionals are long gone before you arrive, and false positives may be frustratingly common. ===Severe weather=== If you are going to drive in the Arctic, in winter in temperate climates or in mountains (including mountain passes), you should acquaint yourself with advice for [[winter driving]]. The roads will be slippery, sight may be reduced (snow can cause "whiteouts" where you hardly see ten metres) and getting stuck will make you have to cope with [[cold weather]]. Dense [[Severe weather#Fog|fog]] may actually be the deadliest weather phenomenon you encounter, as it drastically reduces visibility and thus causes traffic accidents. Sometimes there is fog only in valleys or by bodies of water; when driving downhill visibility can be abruptly reduced unless you are alert. [[Flash floods|Flooding]] can trap you. Driving on a road covered with water is dangerous as judging the depth and the condition of the road (which may have been damaged) is difficult. Water can destroy the engine by abruptly cooling parts of it, and if deep enough (about 60 cm, two feet) even sweep away the car. ===Mountains and remote areas=== * '''Check-up'''. Before driving through mountainous terrain, especially after the cold winter months, your car may need extra attention. Make sure that the vehicle's brake and transmission fluids are filled. * '''Warn friends''' or relatives where and for long you are leaving. Tell a hard deadline when they should initiate a search. Take into account that you may not have phone coverage in some areas. Also tell people who could get nervous if they cannot reach you. * '''Maps and route'''. In remote areas small roads may not be mapped completely or accurately. Or the opposite: an unpassable road in a bad condition might be mapped as a good-quality asphalt tertiary road. To avoid a wrong turn, you may want to plot out your trip on an old-fashioned paper map before you depart – in any case, as there may be areas without data coverage, don't rely on online maps! * '''In spring''', signs of winter may still be present in the mountains: There may be patches of snow and ice left, the roads may be muddy because of meltwater, and damage to the roads may not have been repaired yet. * '''Fuel'''. Climbing steep grades requires much more fuel than a typical drive. Also, fuel stations can be sparse. * Use '''brakes''' sparingly; downshift before extreme downgrades, to use the engine for braking. * Watch your '''temperature gauge'''. * '''Stay alert''' and on your side of the road. ==See also== * [[Itineraries]] * [[Motorcycling]] * [[Taxis]] ===General information=== * [[Tips for road trips]] * [[Animal collisions]] * [[Automobile associations]] * [[Automotive history]] * [[Carnet de passage]] * [[Car camping]] * [[Carsharing]] * [[Ferries]] * [[GPS navigation]] * [[Offroad driving]] * [[Renting a car]] * [[Winter driving]] {{PartOfTopic|Transportation}} {{outlinetopic}} 8742t1s2tag01bunpqmggc8ekpxygrj 0 134736 5288929 5288817 2026-06-06T18:39:10Z ThunderingTyphoons! 106394 /* Get in */ Add better instructions on how to actually reach the trailheads; rail info for Chester and Chepstow. 5288929 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WalesCoastPath-banner-01.jpg}} The '''Wales Coast Path''' (''Llwybr Arfordir Cymru'' in [[Welsh phrasebook|Welsh]]) is a National Trail which follows the entire coastline of [[Wales]], the first country in the world to have such a trail. It officially opened in May 2012, and offers a {{mi|870}} walking route from [[Chepstow]] in the south to [[Queensferry]] (near Chester) in the north. In 2011 the path was voted by National Geographic magazine as the second-best coastal destination in the world. ==Understand== {{seealso| Walking in the United Kingdom}} This trail offers a deep dive into Welsh maritime history and natural beauty, passing through eleven nature reserves, two National Parks ([[Snowdonia National Park]] and [[Pembrokeshire Coast National Park]]), and five Areas of Outstanding National Beauty. As well as providing impressive coastal landscapes, there are also a number of historic castles and bridges to see and explore along the way. The Welsh coast has over 30 beaches designated [http://www.blueflag.global/ Blue Flag] quality. The trail was formed by joining together facilities and resources from sixteen local government authorities, two national parks and the Wales Natural Resources department. Some areas already had established paths, such as the Pembrokeshire Path, the Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path and the Llŷn Coastal Path. New sections of trail joined these together to complete the entire route. The path takes you along some stunning cliffs and long sandy and stony beaches as well as some wide river estuaries. The rocky coastline and large river estuaries provide excellent birdwatching opportunities, with good chances of seeing cormorants, puffins and many waders. If you are lucky you may also see bottlenose dolphins, otters and grey seals. While most of the trail is really suitable only for walkers, some specific paved sections are adapted for cyclists, families with pushchairs, and those with restricted mobility. ==Prepare== While digital navigation is the modern standard, you might prefer the reliability of paper [http://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/ Ordnance Survey] maps for this route. [[Hiking]] footwear is recommended, alongside waterproof sandals or equivalent gear for sand and rock pools. Waterproof clothing is mandatory even on sunny days, as the Welsh climate is famously wet and unpredictable. While much of the path involves stiles and steep gradients, some sections (like those sharing National Cycle Route 5) are suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. When planning places to stay, check with the hotels if they are prepared to transfer your luggage; there are also a number of companies that provide [https://www.walescoastpath.gov.uk/plan-your-visit/planning-carrying-help/?lang=en luggage transfer] services so you do not need to carry everything in a heavy backpack. ===Eat=== As many of the towns along the way are tourist destinations, there are ample opportunities to sample pub lunches and fish and chips. You rarely need to carry a camping stove or heavy food supplies. Do not miss the chance to taste Welsh lamb or Laverbread, which is made from seaweed. There is generally a town or small village at least every 10 to 20 miles along the coast, and even the smallest of Welsh villages seem to have a Spar shop for daily snacks and supplies. ===Drink=== Tap water in Wales is of high quality and safe to drink, so you can easily refill bottles at your accommodations or in towns. A small rucksack with enough drinking water for 10 to 20 miles should be enough for most stretches. If there are restaurants and cafés along your specific route, you can rely on those for refreshments. Avoid drinking from wild streams due to potential agricultural runoff. ===Sleep=== Check the town pages along the route for hotels, bed and breakfast guest houses and caravan/camp-sites. A number of interesting places to sleep are available, including a couple of lighthouses converted into hotels. During peak summer months, reservations are highly recommended. While there are many organized campsites, be aware that wild camping is generally not permitted without the express permission of the landowner. ===Climate=== For its latitude, Wales has a mild maritime climate. However, the winter can be a little cold and windy for hiking, and at any time of the year you must be prepared for rain. Summer is the most popular time to hike, but cliff-top paths can be hazardous during periods of high wind. ===Environment=== The path runs through delicate ecosystems and eleven nature reserves. Hikers are expected to follow the Countryside Code and "Leave No Trace." To protect the landscape, ensure your boots are cleaned of mud before moving between different regions to prevent the spread of invasive plant seeds or soil-borne diseases. ==Get in== [[File:ConwyBridges-01.jpg|thumbnail|By foot, by car, by train between Conwy and Llandudno Junction]] [[File:SouthStack-Stena-01c.jpg|thumbnail|By boat: Holyhead-Dublin ferry passing the South Stack lighthouse on Anglesey]] [[File:Doctor Who Experience (8105520673).jpg|thumbnail|100px|By time machine: the [[:w:TARDIS|TARDIS]] often visits Cardiff Bay]] The north trailhead is on the [[Chester]] Canal just over the English border. From a small park called {{marker|type=go|name=The Cop|lat=53.1938 |long=-2.9045}} (¾-mile walk from Chester Cathedral), follow the canal towpath signed as the Dee Coastal Path for 1 mile, until you reach the border and the official start of the Wales Coast Path. The southern end is at {{marker|type=go|name=[[Chepstow]] Riverside|lat=51.6456|long=-2.6713}} on the banks of the River Wye. From the Town Gate, descend High Street and Bridge Street ½ mile to the Chepstow Bridge. Instead of crossing the bridge into England, turn right onto The Back, a short riverside path that leads you to the Wales Coast Path end marker. === On foot === If 870 miles is not long enough for you, a circular walk can be made by adding the [[Offa's Dyke Path]] which connects with both ends of the coastal path providing a full circle of the country. === By plane === The closest (but still a drive) main international airports are {{Marker|type=go|name=[[Birmingham|Birmingham Airport]]|wikidata=Q8719}} ({{IATA|BHX}}) and {{Marker|type=go|name=[[Manchester Airport]]|wikidata=Q8694}} ({{IATA|MAN}}). {{Marker|name=Cardiff Airport|type=go|wikidata=Q8994}} ({{IATA|CEG}}) and {{Marker|name=Bristol Airport|type=go|wikidata=Q8725}} also have some European flights while {{marker|type=go|name=Anglesey Airport|wikidata= Q540512}} ({{IATA|VLY}}) just has a domestic service to Cardiff. === By car === From England, the M56 will get you to the northern end of the trail while the M4-M48 Severn Bridge will get you to the southern end. === By train === [[Chester#By train|Chester]] is a rail hub for North Wales and North West England, receiving trains from [[London Euston]], [[Manchester]], [[Liverpool]], [[Crewe (England)|Crewe]], [[Wrexham]] and [[Holyhead]], among many others. The station is a 2-mile walk to the trailhead, or just over 1 mile to The Cop park described above. [[Chepstow#By train|Chepstow]] is on the line from [[Newport (Wales)|Newport]] to [[Gloucester (England)|Gloucester]], and also receives trains from [[Cardiff]] Central. The start of the trail is ½ mile from the station. [[Cardiff#By train|Cardiff]] and [[Swansea#By train|Swansea]] are on the main line from London. [[Aberystwyth]] and some of the west coast towns can be reached from [[Birmingham (England)|Birmingham]] and [[Shrewsbury (England)|Shrewsbury]], while the north coast towns can be reached via the North Wales Coast Line from [[Manchester]] and [[Crewe (England)|Crewe]]. === By bus === * [http://www.nationalexpress.com National Express] provide a service to Chester. === By boat === To [[Holyhead]] there are ferries from [[Dublin]] and [[Dún Laoghaire]]; and to [[Fishguard]] from [[Rosslare]]. A number of towns with harbours have private moorings. ==Walk== {{Mapframe|52.39|-4|width=500|height=660|zoom=8}} {{mapshapes|Q656280}} {{RouteSection|name=Start at Welsh border to Prestatyn|length=29 mi}} The journey begins at the {{Marker|name=Wales/England border|type=go|lat=53.183195|long=-2.920433}}, where a stone monolith marks the official start of the 870-mile Wales Coast Path. From here, the trail follows the embankments of the River Dee along a flat, paved shared-use path. You will soon enter {{Marker|name=[[Queensferry]]|type=city|lat=53.210363|long=-3.017015}} and pass under the {{Marker|name=Blue Bridge|type=see|lat=53.210363|long=-3.017015}}, a 1927 bascule bridge that serves as a local landmark. The path continues through the industrial landscape of {{Marker|name=Shotton|type=city|wikidata=Q2355142}}, following the "New Cut" of the river. As you head west, the industry gives way to the vast salt marshes of the Dee Estuary. The path leads directly to {{Marker|name=[[Flint (Wales)|Flint]]|type=city|wikidata=Q1428848}}, where you can explore the ruins of {{Marker|name=Flint castle|type=see|lat=53.251799|long=-3.129957}}. Built by Edward I starting in 1277, it features a unique detached keep and was the site where Richard II was famously betrayed in 1399. Beyond Flint, the route passes the coastal villages of {{Marker|name=Bagillt|type=city|wikidata=Q3401133}} and {{Marker|name=Greenfield|type=city|wikidata=Q5603927}}, the latter of which provides access to the historic Basingwerk Abbey nearby. Continuing toward {{Marker|name=Mostyn|type=city|wikidata=Q2424760}}, you will spot the TSS Duke of Lancaster, a former passenger ferry known locally as the "Fun Ship," permanently docked at Llanerch-y-Mor. The landscape becomes increasingly wild as you reach {{Marker|name=Ffynnongroyw|type=city|wikidata=Q114246131}} and the {{Marker|name=Dee Estuary - Point of Ayr RSPB nature reserve|type=see|wikidata=Q5249904}}. This is a critical habitat for overwintering birds like godwits and knots. Rounding the northernmost point of mainland Wales, you'll find the {{Marker|name=Point of Ayr lighthouse|type=see|wikidata=Q11753150}} rising from the sands of {{Marker|name=Talacre|type=city|wikidata=Q7678779}}. The final stretch follows the coast through the Gronant Dunes, the only place in Wales where little terns still breed, before arriving at the finish of this section in the seaside town of {{Marker|name=[[Prestatyn]]|type=city|wikidata=Q1813948}}. {{RouteSection|name=North Wales Path|length=60 mi}} This stretch guides hikers away from the Dee Estuary and along the popular resort coastline of North Wales. The journey begins at {{Marker|name=Prestatyn beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356946}}, a Blue Flag destination. Nearby, hikers will find the {{Marker|name=Start of [[Offa's Dyke Path]]|type=go|lat=53.342558|long=-3.412501}}, marked by a sculpture indicating the northern terminus of the 177-mile National Trail that spans the length of the Welsh border. Leaving Prestatyn, the path follows the sea wall toward {{Marker|name=[[Rhyl]]|type=city|wikidata=Q2020203}}, a town characterized by its long sandy beaches and seaside amusements. Crossing the border from Denbighshire into Conwy, the trail reaches Pensarn and the vast stretch of {{Marker|name=Abergele Pensarn Beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356941}}, another Blue Flag site noted for its expansive views of the Irish Sea. The route continues through the modern waterfront of {{Marker|name=[[Colwyn Bay]]|type=city|wikidata=Q527467}}. Here, you can see the restored {{Marker|name=Victoria Pier|type=see|wikidata=Q7926957}}, which originally opened in 1900. Rounding the corner past {{Marker|name=Rhos on Sea beach|type=do|lat=53.304313|long=-3.737254}} at {{Marker|name=Rhos-on-Sea|type=city|wikidata=Q2075495}}, the path climbs toward the elegant Victorian resort of {{Marker|name=[[Llandudno]]|type=city|wikidata=Q996492}}. The town is famous for the {{Marker|name=Llandudno Pier|type=see|wikidata=Q6661256}}—the longest in Wales—and the limestone headland of the Great Orme. Perched on the cliffs is the {{Marker|name=Great Orme Lighthouse|type=sleep|wikidata=Q28465908}}, a fortress-style building from 1862 that has been converted into a unique hotel. The path then turns south toward {{Marker|name=Deganwy|type=city|wikidata=Q1062506}} and {{Marker|name=[[Llandudno Junction]]|type=city|lat=53.284|long=-3.809}} to cross the River Conwy. This crossing is home to the famous {{Marker|name=Conwy bridges|type=see|lat=53.280701|long=-3.823503}}, including Thomas Telford’s suspension bridge and Robert Stephenson’s tubular railway bridge. On the western bank sits {{Marker|name=[[Conwy]]|type=city|wikidata=Q634054}}, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The skyline is dominated by {{Marker|name=Conwy castle|type=see|wikidata=Q756830}}, where visitors can walk the ramparts for views of the town and river. Within the medieval walls, the Elizabethan townhouse Plas Mawr is a highlight. For those staying overnight, the {{Marker|name=YHA Conwy|type=sleep|wikidata=Q111116688}} is located on the hill overlooking the town. The final leg of this section passes through the coastal villages of Penmaenmawr and {{Marker|name=[[Llanfairfechan]]|type=city|wikidata=Q787395}}, where the mountains of Snowdonia (Eryri) begin to drop steeply into the sea. Crossing into Gwynedd, the trail concludes at {{Marker|name=[[Bangor (Wales)|Bangor]]|type=city|wikidata=Q234178}}, home to the elegant, Grade II* listed {{Marker|name=Garth Pier|type=see|wikidata=Q5524374}}, which stretches 460 meters into the Menai Strait. {{RouteSection|name=Anglesey Coastal Path|length=124 mi}} [[File:Beaumaris Castle.jpg|thumbnail|Beaumaris Castle]] The path around the Isle of Anglesey (Ynys Môn) is a spectacular journey through a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Starting from the suspension bridge at {{Marker|name=[[Menai Bridge]]|type=city|wikidata=Q2655856}}, the trail heads east through the quiet village of Llandegfan toward the elegant town of {{Marker|name=[[Beaumaris]]|type=city|wikidata=Q1992389}}. This town is a hub for hikers, featuring the {{Marker|name=Beaumaris Pier|type=see|wikidata=Q4877530}} and the 17th-century Courthouse. The crowning jewel here is {{Marker|name=Beaumaris Castle|type=see|wikidata=Q756815}}, a masterpiece of symmetry and the last of Edward I's coastal strongholds. Continuing to the eastern tip of the island at Penmon, you will encounter the {{Marker|name=Trwyn Du Lighthouse|type=see|wikidata=Q1324554}}, which guides ships through the Puffin Island passage. The path then turns west along the northern coast, passing the vast sands of {{Marker|name=Llanddona beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107327108}} and the expansive {{Marker|name=Red Wharf Bay|type=see|wikidata=Q3405755}}. After passing through the popular resort of {{Marker|name=[[Benllech]]|type=city|wikidata=Q402177}} and the picturesque fishing village of {{Marker|name=[[Moelfre]]|type=city|wikidata=Q3397276}}, the terrain becomes more rugged. On the northern heights, you'll find the distinctive {{Marker|name=Point Lynas Lighthouse|type=see|wikidata=Q7208082}}, followed by the industrial heritage of {{Marker|name=[[Amlwch]]|type=city|wikidata=Q472667}}, where the {{Marker|name=Amlwch lighthouse|type=see|wikidata=Q4747079}} stands watch over the historic copper-exporting harbor. After enjoying the Blue Flag waters at {{Marker|name=Church Bay|type=do|wikidata=Q107356931}} beach, the path crosses the Stanley Embankment into Holy Island. The bustling port of {{Marker|name=[[Holyhead]]|type=city|lat=53.309|long=-4.632}} features the historic {{Marker|name=Holyhead Mail Pier Light|type=see|wikidata=Q15224748}}. The highlights of Holy Island are found on the western cliffs: the stunning {{Marker|name=South Stack Lighthouse|type=see|wikidata=Q15278727}}, accessible via a zigzagging staircase, and the {{Marker|name=South Stack Cliffs RSPB reserve|type=see|wikidata=Q7568531}}, where puffins and choughs nest. Nearby, the {{Marker|name=Holyhead Mountain Hut Circles|type=see|wikidata=Q24182244}} (Ty Mawr) offer a glimpse into Iron Age life. After a stop for refreshments at the {{Marker|name=South Stack Cafe|type=drink|lat=53.30516|long=-4.690879}}, the trail passes the sandy cove of {{Marker|name=Porth Dafarch|type=do|wikidata=Q107356930}} beach—home to the {{Marker|name=Anglesey Outdoor Centre|type=sleep|lat=53.293593|long=-4.644302}}—and enters {{Marker|name=[[Trearddur]]|type=city|wikidata=Q628633}}. Heading south, you cross Four Mile Bridge and pass the {{Marker|name=Valley Wetlands RSPB reserve|type=see|wikidata=Q7912305}} toward the surfing hub of {{Marker|name=[[Rhosneigr]]|type=city|wikidata=Q7321494}}. The southern coast offers ancient history at the {{Marker|name=Barclodiad y Gawres|type=see|wikidata=Q807965}} neolithic burial chamber. Passing through {{Marker|name=[[Aberffraw]]|type=city|wikidata=Q319576}}, the route reaches the ethereal Ynys Llanddwyn. Here, the {{Marker|name=Llanddwyn Island Lighthouse|type=see|wikidata=Q15242551}} stands near the ruins of St Dwynwen's church, adjacent to the massive dunes of {{Marker|name=Llanddwyn Beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356924}} near {{Marker|name=[[Newborough (Anglesey)|Newborough]]|type=city|wikidata=Q914316}}. The circuit concludes by passing Llanidan and the massive {{Marker|name=Britannia Bridge|type=see|wikidata=Q918066}}, finishing in the village with the world-famous long name, {{Marker|name=[[Llanfairpwllgwyngyll]]|type=city|wikidata=Q322}}. {{RouteSection|name=Bangor to Caernarfon|length=11 mi}} This 11-mile stretch follows the scenic banks of the Menai Strait, providing constant views across the water to the Isle of Anglesey. Starting in {{Marker|name=[[Bangor (Wales)|Bangor]]|type=city|wikidata=Q234178}}, the path leads toward the architectural marvel of the {{Marker|name=Menai Suspension Bridge|type=see|wikidata=Q581526}}. Designed by Thomas Telford and completed in 1826, this was the world's first modern suspension bridge and remains the primary pedestrian link for those wishing to cross onto the island. The trail proceeds southwest, often following the line of the old railway and quiet coastal lanes. You will pass through the picturesque village of {{Marker|name=Y Felinheli|type=city|wikidata=Q3398922}} (formerly known as Port Dinorwic), once a busy port for exporting slate from the Dinorwic Quarry. The final leg of this section offers a grand approach to the historic town of {{Marker|name=[[Caernarfon]]|type=city|wikidata=Q428829}}, where the path terminates in the shadow of the massive stone walls of the castle. {{RouteSection|name=Caernarfon to Porthmadog|length=91 mi}} [[File:Aberdaron - Porth Meudwy.jpg|thumbnail|Porth Meudwy near Aberdaron]] This 91-mile journey covers the Llŷn Coastal Path, a rugged and remote section that skirts the edges of the Llŷn Peninsula. The section begins in Caernarfon, where the path passes beneath the towering walls of {{Marker|name=Caernarfon Castle|type=see|wikidata=Q275128}}, an immense medieval fortress that overlooks the harbor and the Menai Strait. Heading south, the trail follows the coastline to the popular seaside village of {{Marker|name=[[Dinas Dinlle]]|type=city|wikidata=Q3402467}}, known for its steep pebble ridge and the sandy expanse of {{Marker|name=Dinas Dinlle beach|type=do|lat=53.084578|long=-4.336663}}. The route then enters a more secluded landscape, passing through the historic pilgrimage village of Clynnog Fawr, the granite-quarrying village of Trefor, and the sheltered bays of Morfa Nefyn. Rounding the tip of the peninsula, the trail reaches Llangwnnadl and the remote village of Aberdaron, historically the last stop for pilgrims traveling to Bardsey Island. From here, the path climbs the slopes of {{Marker|name=[[Rhiw]]|type=city|lat=52.821|long=-4.474}} and passes the small hamlet of Pentowyn before descending into the upscale sailing resort of {{Marker|name=[[Abersoch]]|type=city|wikidata=Q319710}}. Here, the sheltered {{Marker|name=Abersoch Beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356918}} is famous for its colorful beach huts. Continuing eastward, you pass through the wooded headlands of Llanbedrog to reach {{Marker|name=[[Pwllheli]]|type=city|wikidata=Q1025821}}, the peninsula's main market town. Its south-facing beach, {{Marker|name=Marian y De|type=do|wikidata=Q123520155}} beach, offers miles of sand. The trail then winds through Llanystywmdwy, the childhood home of David Lloyd George, toward the Victorian resort of {{Marker|name=[[Criccieth]]|type=city|wikidata=Q1139893}}. Perched on a rocky promontory between two beaches is {{Marker|name=Criccieth Castle|type=see|wikidata=Q1139896}}, a native Welsh fortress later expanded by the English. The final leg leads across the reclaimed marshland of the Glaslyn Estuary to finish in the busy harbor town of {{Marker|name=[[Porthmadog]]|type=city|wikidata=Q950671}}. {{RouteSection|name=Porthmadog to Machynlleth|length=69 mi}} This 69-mile stretch traverses the historic county of Meirionnydd, where the mountains of the Snowdonia National Park (Eryri) meet the sea. Leaving Porthmadog, the path skirts the estuary toward the famous Italianate village of {{Marker|name=[[Portmeirion]]|type=city|wikidata=Q737888}}, designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. The trail then heads south along the coastal flats to {{Marker|name=[[Harlech]]|type=city|wikidata=Q1024935}}, dominated by the UNESCO-listed {{Marker|name=Harlech Castle|type=see|wikidata=Q540964}}. This medieval fortress sits atop a sheer rocky crag that, centuries ago, was lapped by the sea. The path continues through a series of coastal villages including Llandanwg, Pensarn, Llanbedr, and Tal-y-bont before reaching the popular resort of {{Marker|name=[[Barmouth]]|type=city|wikidata=Q672545}}. Here, the wide sands of {{Marker|name=Barmouth beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356910}} are a major draw. One of the highlights of the entire Wales Coast Path is crossing the Mawddach Estuary via the {{Marker|name=Barmouth Bridge|type=see|wikidata=Q4861279}}—a magnificent 820-meter timber viaduct that carries both a rail line and a footway. For those with extra time, a detour inland leads to the scenic {{Marker|name=[[Penmaenpool]]|type=city|wikidata=Q7163104}} and the market town of {{Marker|name=[[Dolgellau]]|type=city|wikidata=Q1235510}}. South of the estuary, the path reaches the village of {{Marker|name=[[Fairbourne]]|type=city|wikidata=Q3402580}}, known for its miniature railway. The terrain becomes more elevated as you pass through Llwyngwril and Tonfannau before descending to {{Marker|name=[[Tywyn]]|type=city|wikidata=Q2272941}}, where the promenade overlooks the Blue Flag {{Marker|name=Tywyn beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356908}}. Rounding the coast to the mouth of the River Dyfi, you arrive at the picturesque sailing village of {{Marker|name=[[Aberdyfi]]|type=city|wikidata=Q319536}}. Because there is no pedestrian bridge across the lower Dyfi, the trail turns inland, following the river through the village of Pennal and crossing the border into Powys. This section concludes in the historic "ancient capital" of {{Marker|name=[[Machynlleth]]|type=city|wikidata=Q675460}}. {{RouteSection|name=Ceredigion Coast Path|length=65 mi}} This stretch follows the sweeping curve of Cardigan Bay, beginning just south of Machynlleth. Before crossing the border from Powys into Ceredigion, the trail passes near the {{Marker|name=Cors Dyfi nature reserve|type=see|wikidata=Q5173117}}, home to the famous Dyfi Osprey Project. Continuing west, you reach the {{Marker|name=Ynys-hir RSPB reserve|type=see|wikidata=Q8054060}}, a diverse landscape of oak woodland and saltmarsh that was famously a filming location for Springwatch. The path winds through the villages of Tre'r-ddol and Furnace, where you can see the {{Marker|name=Dyfi Furnace|type=see|wikidata=Q12056811}}, a beautifully restored 18th-century charcoal blast furnace. Reaching the coast, the trail opens up at {{Marker|name=Ynyslas|type=see|wikidata=Q8054078}}, a stunning nature reserve of sand dunes and a submerged forest visible at low tide. This leads into the Blue Flag sands of {{Marker|name=Borth Beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356905}} and the village of {{Marker|name=[[Borth]]|type=city|wikidata=Q894252}}. After climbing the cliffs at Clarach, the path descends into the university town of {{Marker|name=[[Aberystwyth]]|type=city|wikidata=Q213154}}. Here, you can ride the {{Marker|name=Aberystwyth Cliff Railway|type=see|wikidata=Q4667224}}, the longest electric funicular in Britain, or stroll along the {{Marker|name=Royal Pier|type=see|wikidata=Q7374719}}. For inland adventures, this is the hub for visiting {{Marker|name=[[Devil's Bridge]]|type=city|wikidata=Q3398339}} and Ponterwyd. Heading south, the trail passes through the coastal hamlets of Llanrhystud, Llanon, and {{Marker|name=[[Aberarth]]|type=city|wikidata=Q3399358}} before reaching the Georgian harbor town of {{Marker|name=[[Aberaeron]]|type=city|wikidata=Q1765460}}, famous for its colorful houses and honey ice cream. Further along is the seaside resort of {{Marker|name=[[New Quay]]|type=city|wikidata=Q2039004}}, where {{Marker|name=New Quay Harbour Beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356900}} provides a perfect spot for dolphin watching. The final rugged section of the Ceredigion path features some of the county's most iconic coves, including the Blue Flag beaches at {{Marker|name=[[Llangrannog]]|type=city|wikidata=Q927739}}, Penbryn, and {{Marker|name=Tresaith Beach|type=do|wikidata=Q31845059}}, which features a dramatic waterfall cascading directly onto the sand. After passing through the twin bays of {{Marker|name=[[Aberporth]]|type=do|wikidata=Q319672}}, the trail rounds the headland at Mwnt and Gwbert, finishing in the historic town of {{Marker|name=[[Cardigan]]|type=city|wikidata=Q779813}} on the banks of the River Teifi. {{RouteSection|name=Pembrokeshire Coast Path|length=186 mi}} The path crosses into Pembrokeshire at the Teifi estuary, leading directly to the historic {{Marker|name=St. Dogmaels Abbey|type=see|wikidata=Q12067908}}, a 12th-century Tironensian foundation. From here, the trail reaches the expansive {{Marker|name=Poppit Sands|type=do|wikidata=Q7229534}}, a Blue Flag beach marking the official northern start of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail. Nearby, hikers can find accommodation at the {{Marker|name=YHA Poppit Sands|type=sleep|lat=52.107164|long=-4.713528}}. The terrain becomes increasingly rugged as you pass the dramatic folding rocks of {{Marker|name=Ceibwr Bay|type=see|wikidata=Q5057357}} and the {{Marker|name=Carreg Coetan Arthur|type=see|wikidata=Q1044900}} burial chamber, a Neolithic tomb near {{Marker|name=[[Newport (Pembrokeshire)|Newport]]|type=city|wikidata=Q914291}}. After rounding the headlands of Cwm-yr-Eglwys and Pwllgwaelod, the path reaches the ferry port of {{Marker|name=[[Fishguard]]|type=city|wikidata=Q1018730}} and neighboring Goodwick. To the west lies the remote Pen Caer peninsula, home to the {{Marker|name=Strumble Head Lighthouse|type=see|wikidata=Q7625316}}, one of the best spots in Wales for spotting porpoises and seals. Continuing south through the former industrial harbors of {{Marker|name=[[Abercastle]]|type=city|wikidata=Q399544}}, {{Marker|name=[[Porthgain]]|type=city|wikidata=Q3404798}}, and the "Blue Lagoon" at {{Marker|name=[[Abereiddy]]|type=city|wikidata=Q4667060}}, the trail reaches the surfer's paradise of {{Marker|name=Whitesands beach|type=do|wikidata=Q7996233}}. This is the gateway to {{Marker|name=[[St Davids]]|type=city|wikidata=Q648732}}, Britain's smallest city, centered around its magnificent cathedral. The path then winds past the colorful harbor of {{Marker|name=[[Solva]]|type=city|wikidata=Q1022259}} and the massive pebble bank of {{Marker|name=Newgale beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356891}}. The central Pembrokeshire section features the Blue Flag sands of {{Marker|name=Broad Haven Beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356888}} and leads around the Marloes Peninsula, offering views of the puffin-rich island of [[Skomer]]. At the mouth of the Milford Haven waterway stands the {{Marker|name=St. Ann's Head Lighthouse|type=see|wikidata=Q7586969}} and the sheltered {{Marker|name=Dale beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356886}}. After navigating the industrial and maritime landscape of {{Marker|name=[[Milford Haven]]|type=city|wikidata=Q991055}} and the hidden reaches of the Daugleddau estuary near Lawrenny, the trail visits the medieval {{Marker|name=[[Pembroke (Wales)|Pembroke]]|type=city|wikidata=Q1762242}} and its massive castle. The final stretch is a succession of world-class beaches and limestone cliffs. From the surfing waters of Freshwater East and the dunes of Manorbier, the path passes the resort of {{Marker|name=Lydstep beach|type=do|wikidata=Q24677872}} before arriving at the iconic walled town of {{Marker|name=[[Tenby]]|type=city|wikidata=Q558878}}. Tenby boasts three Blue Flag beaches: {{Marker|name=South beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356879}}, {{Marker|name=Tenby Castle Beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356878}}, and {{Marker|name=North Beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356877}}. The path concludes by passing through {{Marker|name=[[Saundersfoot]]|type=city|wikidata=Q3405190}}—home to {{Marker|name=Saundersfoot Beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356876}} and {{Marker|name=Coppet Hall Beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356875}}—to finish at {{Marker|name=Amroth beach|type=do|wikidata=Q107356873}} in {{Marker|name=[[Amroth]]|type=city|wikidata=Q4748719}} at the Carmarthenshire border. {{RouteSection|name=Amroth to Llanelli|length=68 mi}} This section traverses the diverse coastline of Carmarthenshire, from legendary speed-testing sands to historic marshlands. Leaving Amroth, you soon reach {{Marker|name=[[Pendine]]|type=city|wikidata=Q3403473}}, home to the famous {{Marker|name=Pendine Sands|type=see|wikidata=Q1800335}}, a 7-mile flat beach that hosted numerous land speed record attempts in the 1920s. The path then moves toward {{Marker|name=[[Laugharne]]|type=city|wikidata=Q1965490}}, the village famously associated with poet Dylan Thomas; his writing shed overlooks the Taf estuary. The trail continues through {{Marker|name=[[Llansteffan]]|type=city|wikidata=Q13644944}}, where a medieval castle guards the mouth of the River Tywi. The route takes a loop inland through the county town of {{Marker|name=[[Carmarthen]]|type=city|wikidata=Q835835}}, the oldest continuously inhabited town in Wales, to cross the river. Returning to the coast at {{Marker|name=[[Ferryside]]|type=city|wikidata=Q5445551}}, the path heads toward {{Marker|name=[[Kidwelly]]|type=city|wikidata=Q3395358}}, notable for its remarkably well-preserved Norman castle. The landscape then shifts to the scenic Millennium Coastal Park, an award-winning transformation of former industrial land. Here you will find the 8-mile golden expanse of {{Marker|name=Cefn Sidan|type=do|wikidata=Q1194493}} beach at Pembrey. Following the path through the harbor of {{Marker|name=[[Burry Port]]|type=city|wikidata=Q2253279}}, look for the distinctive {{Marker|name=Burry Port Lighthouse|type=see|wikidata=Q5000542}}, a white harbor light built in the 1830s. The section finishes in the industrial and rugby-loving town of {{Marker|name=[[Llanelli]]|type=city|wikidata=Q990125}}, before passing through Bynea to cross the Loughor Bridge into Swansea territory. {{RouteSection|name=Llanelli to Port Talbot|length=97 mi}} This expansive section rounds the world-famous Gower Peninsula, the UK's first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. After passing the cockle-picking village of Penclawdd, the trail navigates the salt marshes of the North Gower coast. On the far northwestern tip, the unique cast-iron {{Marker|name=Whiteford Lighthouse|type=see|wikidata=Q3739820}} stands in the surf of Whiteford Sands. The path then rounds the iconic Rhossili Bay and heads toward the village of {{Marker|name=Port Eynon|type=city|wikidata=Q7230620}}. Here, the {{Marker|name=Port Eynon Bay|type=do|wikidata=Q107356870}} beach offers excellent bathing, and hikers can stay at the {{Marker|name=YHA Port Eynon|type=sleep|lat=51.545041|long=-4.210321}}, housed in a historic former lifeboat station. The South Gower coast is a succession of breathtaking limestone cliffs and Blue Flag bays, including {{Marker|name=Caswell Bay|type=do|wikidata=Q5050953}}, {{Marker|name=Langland Bay|type=do|wikidata=Q6486177}}, and the rocky {{Marker|name=Bracelet Bay|type=do|wikidata=Q4953242}}. Rounding the Mumbles Head, the trail enters the gentler waters of Swansea Bay. You'll pass the historic {{Marker|name=Mumbles Pier|type=see|wikidata=Q6935359}}, an 1898 Victorian structure, and the seaside suburb of Mumbles before following the 5-mile promenade into the city of {{Marker|name=[[Swansea]]|type=city|wikidata=Q23051}}. Continuing east, the path transitions from urban scenery to the heavy industrial landscape of Neath Port Talbot. The skyline is dominated by the massive {{Marker|name=Port Talbot Steelworks|type=see|wikidata=Q7230974}}, one of Europe's largest industrial sites. The section concludes near the town of {{Marker|name=[[Port Talbot]]|type=city|wikidata=Q1072019}} and the historic estate of Margam, famous for its abbey and deer park. [[File:GlamorganHeritageCoast.JPG|thumbnail|Southerndown - Dunraven bay]] [[File:Cardiff Bay.JPG|thumbnail|Cardiff Bay]] {{RouteSection|name=Port Talbot to Chepstow|length=110 mi}} The final stretch of the Wales Coast Path journeys through the industrial heartlands and dramatic limestone cliffs of South East Wales. Leaving Port Talbot, the trail enters the Vale of Glamorgan, home to the spectacular {{Marker|name=Glamorgan Heritage Coast|type=see|wikidata=Q25170257}}. This 14-mile stretch is defined by unique Jurassic-era cliffs and rocky shores, beginning near the popular surfing spot at {{Marker|name=Rest Bay|type=do|wikidata=Q25556308}} and the seaside town of {{Marker|name=[[Porthcawl]]|type=city|wikidata=Q39480}}. Heading east, the path passes the golden dunes of {{Marker|name=Trecco Bay|type=do|wikidata=Q107356863}} and moves toward the mouth of the River Ogmore. Here, hikers can explore the remains of {{Marker|name=Ogmore Castle|type=see|wikidata=Q1789059}}, a 12th-century fortress, before crossing the river via stepping stones (tide permitting). The trail then leads to {{Marker|name=[[Southerndown]]|type=city|wikidata=Q7570735}} and the dramatic {{Marker|name=Dunraven Bay and Park|type=see|lat=51.440674|long=-3.603262}}, where the layered rock formations are among the most striking in Britain. Nearby, the active {{Marker|name=Nash Point Lighthouse|type=see|wikidata=Q15717627}}, built in 1832, stands as a guardian of the Bristol Channel. The path continues past the villages of {{Marker|name=[[Gileston]]|type=city|wikidata=Q5561752}} and {{Marker|name=[[Rhoose]]|type=city|wikidata=Q3400633}}, skirting the edge of the cliffs near Cardiff Airport. Soon, the trail reaches the bustling resort of {{Marker|name=[[Barry]]|type=city|wikidata=Q809009}}, famous for the amusement parks at {{Marker|name=Whitmore Bay|type=do|wikidata=Q31845008}}. After passing through {{Marker|name=[[Sully]]|type=city|wikidata=Q3403407}} and rounding the headland to {{Marker|name=[[Penarth]]|type=city|wikidata=Q427792}}, hikers find the elegant {{Marker|name=Penarth Pier|type=see|wikidata=Q7162267}}, a restored Art Deco masterpiece. Crossing the barrage into {{Marker|name=[[Cardiff]] Bay|type=do|wikidata=Q3396731}}, the path enters the Welsh capital, passing the Senedd and the Wales Millennium Centre. Moving into the Gwent Levels, the scenery becomes flat and atmospheric. Along the estuary, the {{Marker|name=West Usk Lighthouse|type=sleep|wikidata=Q15979604}}, now a hotel, marks the approach to the city of {{Marker|name=[[Newport (Monmouthshire)|Newport]]|type=city|wikidata=Q11797277}}. Here, the path passes one of the world's few remaining functional {{Marker|name=Newport Transporter Bridge|type=see|wikidata=Q1573693}} and the rich bird habitats of the {{Marker|name=Newport Wetlands|type=see|wikidata=Q13653049}} RSPB reserve. The final leg enters Monmouthshire, passing through the village of {{Marker|name=[[Caldicot]]|type=city|wikidata=Q722585}} and under the shadow of the massive Second Severn Crossing. The journey concludes in the historic border town of {{Marker|name=[[Chepstow]]|type=city|wikidata=Q771986}}, where the path ends at {{Marker|name=Chepstow Castle|type=see|wikidata=Q1070187}}, the oldest surviving post-Roman stone fortification in Britain. The path also meets the {{Marker|name=[[Offa's Dyke Path]]|type=go|lat=51.647957|long=-2.672278}} at this point. ==Stay safe== Although few of the villages and towns along the route have hospitals or medical centres, fixed line telephones and mobiles are common and in any emergency you should just dial {{phone|999}}}. Then tell the emergency operator whether you need the Fire, Police or Ambulance services. When it's less urgent than a 999 call, contact the local police in England and Wales on {{phone|101}}}. This number should be answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Some parts of the path run along the tops of cliffs. Be careful of undercutting erosion near the edge. Also when at sea level be aware of tide changes to avoid being cut off as the tide comes in. There are no dangerous wild animals in the U.K. but be aware of livestock in field, some cows and bulls can get annoyed and have been known in rare cases to injure. The only plant to be careful of is the stinging nettle, which for most people is only an annoying irritant. Don't refer to the Welsh as "English". [[File:Llwybr clawdd offa.jpg|thumb|Offa's Dyke Path]] ==Go next== Head inland: * [[Offa's Dyke Path]] is a popular walking route through the border regions of England and Wales. The dyke itself (Clawdd Offa in Welsh) has partially disappeared in places, although in the parts where it is preserved. All of Offa’s Dyke Path follows legally defined Rights of Way for all walkers and is clearly signed with an acorn symbol. Some sections are also available for horse riders and cyclists. * [[Snowdonia National Park]], stunning maintain, and glacial valley landscape. * [[Brecon Beacons National Park]] the Black Mountain as well as a vast array of moorland, forests, valleys, waterfalls, lakes, caves and gorges. * [[Pennine Way]] {{mi|429}} walk running the spine of England from Edale in Derbyshire to Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders * [[Coast To Coast Walk]] a 190-mile long-distance walking trail in England which crosses the North of England from St Bees in Cumbria on the West coast to Robin Hood's Bay in North Yorkshire on the East coast. Move on to the English coast, such as the: * Cumbria Coastal Way - from Lancashire to the Scottish border. * [http://www.southwestcoastpath.com/ South West Coast Path] - {{mi|630}}, running from Minehead in Somerset, along the coasts of Devon and Cornwall, to Poole Harbour in Dorset. Or explore the continental coastline * [[E9 European Coast Path]] Portugal to Estonia. {{usableitinerary}} {{geo|52.39|-4|zoom=8}} {{PartOfItinerary|Europe itineraries}} 40a799t0jivquez50y8v3ltms275y9a 0 135282 5288852 5255418 2026-06-06T13:29:13Z Borgenland 2282829 /* Get around */ 5288852 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Sison_Banner.jpg}} '''Sison''' is a municipality in [[Pangasinan]], [[Philippines]]. It's also known as "Bagoong Making" and "Salt Making" in the [[Philippines]]. '''Sison''' is part of the Region I-[[Ilocos Region]]. ==Understand== San Fabian is the mother town of Sison. Because of expansion of jurisdiction, towns being combined and the fusion of two townships named Artacho and Alava, Senator Pedro Ma. Sison sponsored the law fusing of both towns on May 1, 1918, resulting in the new town being named after him. ==Get in== There is no airport serving Sison. So, if you are coming from Manila, you are likely to take the bus. Victory liner runs buses every hour from Manila to Sison. These buses pass via Dau and Tarlac. If you have a car, you can take NLEX (North Luzon Expressway). If you are willing to spend a lot of money, taxis can also drive you to Sison. Buses, jeepneys, and tricycles bound for '''Sison''' are available in any parts of [[Pangasinan]]. ==Get around== {{Mapframe}} Like other Philippine provinces and cities, '''jeepneys''' and '''tricycles''' are very common. In some parts, there are '''sidecars''' or '''pedicabs'''. ==See== * {{see | name=Antong Falls | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.1800 | long=120.5590 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.17109 | long=120.50994 | directions= | phone=+63 756003052 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} [[File:OurLadyofMountCarmelParishChurchjf868.JPG|thumb|Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel]] * {{see | name=Sison Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} [[File:SisonPangasinanjf854.JPG|thumb|Town plaza and state or auditorium]] * {{see | name=Municipal Library | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.173283729698934| long=120.5097373980663 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} [[File:SisonPangasinanjf853.JPG|thumb|Municipal Library]] * {{see | name=Bued Toll Bridge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.191242338242855 | long=120.50529614030272 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} [[File:La Union Pangasinan.JPG|thumb|La Union-Pangasinan Boundary Gate]] ==Do== * Swim and Dive in '''Antong Falls.''' ==Work== ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Sison Public Market | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.161521083937515 | long=120.52215608413586 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Leslie's Bakeshop | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Aqua Vida Water Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=PR Gaz | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name= Sison Hardware | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.176655824023275 | long=120.51606850683801 |directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Leeza's Kambingan Seafood at Bulaluhan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.17489 | long=120.51865 | directions= | phone=+63 9477227851 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Tita Gee's Garden Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/titageesgardencafe | email= | address=Sison, Pangasinan | lat=16.172464 | long=120.511388 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-08 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Egina’s Delight | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/iXang.travels | email= | address=Brgy. Dungon | lat=16.225319 | long=120.510637 | directions= | phone=+63 916 416 4624 | tollfree= | hours=11:30AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-08 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Sip and Chew Milk Tea | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/sipandchewsagunto | email=sipandchewmilkteasagunto@yahoo.com | address=Purok 1, Sagunto | lat=16.197232 | long=120.517407 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-08 | content= }} * {{drink | name=SwabTea's Café | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066418882841 | email=vonmark03@icloud.com | address=Bantay Insik | lat=16.193007 | long=120.469274 | directions= | phone=+63 955 378 2299 | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-08 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Agapi Milktea | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/AGAPIMILKTEA | email=alecaoanan666@gmail.com | address= | lat=16.178573 | long=120.514981 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-08 | content= }} ==Sleep== ==Talk== Most residents in central Sison speak the '''Pangasinan''' language. Their language is erroneously known by other Filipinos as Pangalatok. '''Ilokano''' is spoken in the western and especially the eastern side of Sison. Many establishments use the national language known as Filipino that is based on Tagalog. English is widely-spoken in Sison. ==Stay safe== ==Stay healthy== ==Connect== * '''Sison Wi-Fi''' — the Wi-Fi is free in the area of Sison. ''Note'': Some places in Sison have Wi-Fi, but the owner of the Wi-Fi is always a private individual. ==Cope== ==Go next== # [[Pozorrubio]] # [[Rosales]] # [[Villasis]] # [[Alcala]] # [[Urdaneta|Urdaneta City]] {{IsPartOf|Pangasinan}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|16.15|120.52}} g70pscuvnykvrfe3g300olfsihc08ff 0 138219 5288904 5288542 2026-06-06T16:47:50Z Waysi32 2418585 No section numbering anymore, so the reference should be removed as well. 5288904 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Janapar Trail banner.jpg}} The ''' Janapar Trail''', in [[Nagorno-Karabakh]], goes through the beautiful landscape of the Caucasus mountains. The marked trail involves 8-16 days of hiking, starting from the southern end of the trail in [[Hadrut]] and ending in Vardenis, [[Armenia]]. The Janapar Trail is 284 km long. ==Understand== {{Cautionbox|With the return of all of Nagorno-Karabakh to Azerbaijani control after a military offensive in 2023, a lot of information about the Janapar Trail within the article became outdated. |lastedit=2025-09-05 }} [[File:2014 Górski Karabach, Widoki ze szlaku turystycznego Dżanapar (05).jpg|thumb|Along the trail section from Karintak to Shushi]] The trail runs through the region of Nagorno-Karabakh, which means "mountainous black garden". The trail was first marked in 2007, and since then volunteers have returned a few times to maintain markings in the southern half of the trail. There is a good website with substantial information, as well as an active Facebook page with a lot of photos where questions can be directed. The majority Armenian-populated region of Nagorno-Karabakh declared independence from [[Azerbaijan]] around the same time the Soviet Union collapsed, and won a bitter war. No peace treaty has ever been signed however, so the region remains unrecognized internationally. It is beautiful, remote, and surprisingly to many, rather safe. There are many popular sights like monasteries and monuments along the way (sometimes a little off-track), and several hot springs allow for a refresh during a day of hiking. Checkout [[Nagorno-Karabakh|Nagorno-Karabakh aka Artsakh]] itself for a comprehensive list, and all the articles of cities along the way, like [[Stepanakert]], [[Shusha]], and [[Vank]]. Online information is available on the [http://www.janapartrail.org/ official website] and the dedicated [http://facebook.com/janapar.trail Facebook Group]. ===Summary=== The complete trail can be re-viewed on [https://www.openstreetmap.org/relation/3668100 OpenStreetMap] and '''downloaded''' on [https://hiking.waymarkedtrails.org/#route?id=3668100&type=relation&map=8.0/39.7628/46.9855 Waymarked Trails]. Furthermore, all trail sections are described below. Also, checkout the [[:Wikipedia:Janapar|Wikipedia]] and [[:Wikidata:Q3072719|Wikidata]] links to the left of this page for additional information. ==Prepare== Preparation is like that of any extended trip/hike. You want to pack light, but be prepared to walk all day through different terrain, to navigate, and to protect yourself from the elements. You have either the option of bringing camping gear, or staying in villagers homes each night, as the trail is designed to bring you into a village each night at the end of your days hike. There is no fee for accessing the Janapar Trail. However, a special permit might be necessary for the Dadivank to Vardenis section of the trail. Such a permit can be obtained from the Karabakh Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Nevertheless, if found along that part without a permit the worst that can happen is that you will have to leave the trail and go back to the main road. But the remoteness makes it very unlikely anyone will ask. And as soon as you have gone back into Armenia, you are on the safe side. ===Eat=== There are few formal places to eat along the trail outside the larger towns. Carry enough food for each day, plus extra in case walking takes longer than expected. In villages, basic supplies may be available from small shops, but opening hours and stock can be unreliable. ===Drink=== Carry sufficient water, especially in summer and on exposed sections. Springs and village taps exist along parts of the route, but availability is not guaranteed and water sources may be seasonal. Treat or filter natural water if you are unsure of its quality. ===Sleep=== Accommodation options vary widely by section. In larger towns there may be hotels or guesthouses, while smaller villages may have no formal accommodation. Do not rely on old homestay lists; confirm any overnight stop in advance and carry a backup plan. ===Climate=== The trail crosses lowland valleys, forested hills and higher mountain areas, so conditions can change quickly. Summers can be hot and exposed, while spring and autumn may bring rain, mud and cool nights. Higher sections can be cold outside summer and may have snow or poor visibility. ==Get in== Nagorno-Karabakh is only accessible through Armenia. Most will take a mini-bus from [[Yerevan]] to [[Stepanakert]]. From there a bus or another mini-bus to Hadrut will get you to the starting point. A visa is required, and can be obtained in Stepanakert upon arrival at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (ask for the ''Artakin Gortseri Nakhararutyun''). You'd want to list all the provinces of Nagorno-Karabakh in order to be able to hike the various sections of the trail and have freedom to move wherever you'd like. ==Walk== {{mapframe|height=500|width=500}} {{Mapshapes| Q3072719}} The hike is broken into day-hike sections, with a village or town you can sleep in at the end of each day's hike. Nevertheless, some sections are shorter and might only require half a day of hiking. Starting from the southern point of Hadrut and heading north, this is the order of places along the ''marked'' Janapar Trail. Due to the often remote nature of the trail, it is important that you are well prepared and have a proper and reliable map with you. In addition, using GPS adds an extra layer of safety in towns and the countryside. For reliable (offline) maps, [[GPS navigation]], comprehensive trail and map information, consult [https://www.openstreetmap.org/ OpenStreetMap], which is used by this travel guide, and by many convenient mobile Apps like [https://osmand.net/ OsmAnd] or [https://en.mapy.cz/ Mapy.cz]. Or just download the according GPX or KML files through [https://hiking.waymarkedtrails.org/ Waymarked Trails] for such trails on OpenStreetMap. (Note, you just need to change the OpenStreetMap relation ID to download the GPX or KML files through the same link.) {{RouteSection|length=14.4 km|duration=4 hr 35 min|name=Hadrut to Togh|wikidata=Q64808619}} This section is medium difficulty and well-marked. You hike from the edge of the town of {{marker|type=city|name=Hadrut|wikidata=Q157919}} up to a crest, then head down to the village of {{marker|type=city|name=Togh|wikidata=Q2636177}}, with nice views of cool mountain you will be hiking the next day. Make a trip up to Spitak Khach Vank to light a candle upon completion. {{RouteSection|length=15.5 km|duration=4 hr 45 min|name=Togh to Azokh|wikidata=Q64808742}} This section is medium difficulty and well-marked. You hike in a circle around the impressive mountain that the 12th-century Gtichavank monastery is on. Nice monastery undergoing restoration, nice forest, and depending on your route you may cross over a nice old bridge or two. You can explore the cave in {{marker|type=city|name=Azokh|wikidata=Q526846}} village in the evening when you arrive, or in the morning before you depart for Karmir Shuka. {{RouteSection|length=15.6 km|duration=4 hr 45 min|name=Azokh to Karmir Shuka|wikidata=Q64808779}} This section is medium difficulty and well-marked. Hike up from Azokh over the crest, to Shekher village and through the fields below {{marker|type=city|name=Karmir Shuka|wikidata=Q2657762}} before reaching the town. {{RouteSection|length=13.3 km|duration=3 hr 45 min|name=Karmir Shuka to Avetaranots|wikidata=Q64808854}} This section is medium difficulty and well-marked. From Karmir Shuka you hike up to the impressive 2,000-year-old tree of Skhtorashen, then hike across the highway past a waterfall, and on to {{marker|type=city|name=Avetaranots|wikidata=Q2874259}} village, with an old melik's house. {{RouteSection|length=12.9 km|duration=3 hr 50 min|name=Avetaranots to Karintak|wikidata=Q64808914}} This section is medium-difficult and well-marked. This hike takes you through some thick forest, up to a crest overlooking the cliffs of Shushi, and down across the Karkar river into aptly named {{marker|type=city|name=Karintak|wikidata=Q2656648}} (meaning below the rock) village. {{RouteSection|length=5.6 km|duration=2 hr 15 min|name=Karintak to Shushi|wikidata=Q64808923}} This well-marked section is moderately difficult and exceptionally scenic. It follows the Karkar River through sheer canyon walls, past the otherworldly Zontik Waterfall, across an old bridge, through the ruins of abandoned Hunot village, and up the cliffs to {{marker|type=city|name=[[Shushi]]|wikidata=Q158903}}. {{RouteSection|length=11.9 km|duration=4 hr 15 min|name=Shushi to Stepanakert|wikidata=Q64808926}} This section is medium to medium-difficult and well-marked. It follows a quiet, rarely traveled back road through natural scenery, across an old bridge and up to a tiny hamlet was a simple old church, and then down to {{marker|type=city|name=[[Stepanakert]]|wikidata=Q129352}}. A pleasant alternative to a ride to Stepanakert even if you're not hiking the entire trail. {{RouteSection|length=21.3 km|duration=9 hr 50 min|name=Stepanakert to Patara|wikidata=Q64808927}} This section is easy, though not especially well-marked, particularly across the fields. The route passes mostly through open farmland and a couple of foothill villages, where trail markings can be sparse in areas without stones or other clear surfaces. Use a reliable navigation app, and ask locals for directions to the next village when needed. {{marker|type=city|name=Patara|wikidata=Q3104667}} itself is a small village with a guesthouse. {{RouteSection|length=15 km|duration=5 hr 25 min|name=Patara to Kolatak|wikidata=Q64808932}} This section is difficult and well-marked. The toughest day of hiking, involves climbing a very steep mountain to the mostly natural fortifications of Kachaghakaberd fortress, and then down the mountain and across the river to {{marker|type=city|name=Kolatak|wikidata=Q2660719}} village. Rewarding with top-of-the-world views. {{RouteSection|length=12.8 km|duration=4 hr|name=Kolatak to Gandzasar|wikidata=Q64808960}} This section is medium difficulty, but not or badly marked. Hike up to the monastery of Metsaranits and back to the village of Kolatak before heading downriver along the only road out of the village. When you read the junction of the main road, head left up to the village of Vank, and up to the stunning monastery of {{marker|type=see|name=Gandzasar|wikidata=Q947593}}. {{RouteSection|length=14 km|duration=5 hr|name=Gandzasar to Vaghuhas|wikidata=Q64808934|role=alternative}} This section is medium difficulty, but not or badly marked. This entire day is spent hiking over the forested mountains to the village of {{marker|type=city|name=Vaghuhas|wikidata=Q2671739}}, which has an old church. {{cautionbox|A special safety notice from the HALO Trust, responsible for the trail development and maintenance. Read carefully and do not hike this section if you are uncomfortable with this information. ''There are no records of any minefields or cluster munition sites close to the route. However, in the past our survey teams have responded to a number of callouts to destroy ammunition (including mines and cluster munitions) around both villages, Vank and Vaghuas, reported by local population. Since the area was a scene of heavy fighting in the early nineties, it’s possible that there might be more abandoned or unexploded ammunition lying around.'' ''Our recommendation is to try to avoid walking on any unused ground or going deeper into forested areas where fighting might have taken place. If the Janapar Trail runs through a well-used footpath or a forest track, then it should be safe, but it is still worthwhile to get some advice from the local villagers who use the area on a daily basis for collecting firewood or hunting.'' ''In case anyone from your team comes across any ammunition or an unknown item, it’s strongly recommended not to touch/investigate it, and report the findings to HALO as soon as possible.''}} {{RouteSection|length=14-22 km|duration=5-7 hr|name=Vaghuhas to Dadivank|wikidata=Q64808962|role=alternative}} This section is easy to medium difficulty, but not or badly marked. The entire day is spent hiking between the river and the road to Dadivank, in a narrow and impressive gorge. {{marker|type=see|name=Dadivank|wikidata=Q980497}} is a beautiful, large monastery with a small village under it. {{RouteSection|length=19-24 km|duration=6-8 hr|name=Dadivank to Zuar|wikidata=Q64808967|role=alternative}} This section is easy, but not or badly marked. Following the river towards Karvachar, you leave the main road and follow up the river to the Zuar hot springs. {{RouteSection|length=21.2 km|duration=6 hr 45 min|name=Gandzasar to Andzavner|wikidata=Q140047930}} This section is moderate and follows a very infrequently travelled, easy-to-follow road from Vank village and Gandzasar Monastery up toward the top of the mountain, where there is a small cattle farm. The scenery is remote and open, with very few people around. {{marker|type=sleep|name=Andzavner|lat=40.017673|long=46.354829}} is a guest house in Jaghalar. {{RouteSection|length=14.7 km|duration=4 hr 30 min|name=Andzavner to Zuar|wikidata=Q140047943}} This section is moderate and descends from the mountain along an old, almost unused Soviet road to the {{marker|type=city|name=Zuar|lat=40.070168269|long=46.238160687}} area. There is a village for overnighting, and the nearby hot springs make a good stop at the end of the day. {{RouteSection|length=23.3 km|duration=8 hr|name=Zuar to Nor Verinshen|wikidata=Q64808968}} This section is difficult and not or badly marked. From the Zuar hot springs, you hike over rolling low mountains towards {{marker|type=city|name=Nor Verinshen|wikidata=Q2062964}}. The route follows old tracks and open terrain, with stretches near unused and fallen Soviet electrical towers, before descending toward the Tartar River valley and the Karvachar canyon area. {{RouteSection|length=22.7 km|duration=7 hr|name=Nor Verinshen to Tsar|wikidata=Q64808971}} This section is medium difficulty, but not or badly marked. From Nor Verinshen, the route heads into the Tartar/Trtu Gorge and continues upstream through the canyon. You pass a hot spring tub and continue along the river before the turnoff to Tsar, where a steep ascent leads up to the high mountain plateau and the village of {{marker|type=city|name=Tsar|wikidata=Q2395240}}. {{RouteSection|length=33.8 km|duration=9 hr 30 min|name=Tsar to Vardenis|wikidata=Q64808974}} This section is difficult and not or badly marked. Over the mountain plateau into Armenia and finally {{marker|type=city|name=[[Vardenis]]|wikidata=Q39542}} at the southeast corner of Lake Sevan. You can try shorten this part by trying to find a taxi as soon as you reach the first villages in Armenia. ==Sleep== Numerous homestays offer their service along the way. In the following a list of such homestays for each village and town in the order of hiking. ===Hadrut=== * {{sleep | name=Hamlet and Susan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 250662, +374 47 551406 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=5 beds. }} * {{sleep | name=Ira | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 295629 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=5 beds. }} ===Togh=== * {{sleep | name=Artur and Sveta | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Nikolai | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=Just a campground in the backyard. }} * {{sleep | name=Vardan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 279-099 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content= }} ===Azokh=== * {{sleep | name=Armo | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=3 separate bedrooms with 6 beds for guests. }} * {{sleep | name=Aro | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 297329 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=8-9 beds in separate bedrooms. }} ===Karmir Shuka=== * {{sleep | name=Officer Samvel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 213335 (Samuel), +374 97 224149 (Mr. Borik) | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Samvel the younger | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 213335 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=Large groups are ok. }} * {{sleep | name=Tiko | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 286-828 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Vasak and Tatevik | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 259500 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content= }} ===Avetaranots (Chanaghchi)=== * {{sleep | name=Henrikh and Madlen Stepanian | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 255300 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=A double room with 2 extra beds possible. }} * {{sleep | name=Mardik sister | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 233-101 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Surik and Zamira Hayrapetian | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 208688 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=2 rooms with twin beds. }} * {{sleep | name=Yurik and Zamira Hayrapetian | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 270047 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=2 rooms with 4 beds all together. }} ===Karintak=== * {{sleep | name=Guesthouse Nadejda | alt= | url= | email=gayane.arutyunyan.75@mail.ru | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 285875, +374 47 731167 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=A real guesthouse with 6 beds. }} * {{sleep | name=Ulmar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 240026, +374 47 9731907, +374 97 240576, +374 47 9731334, +374 97 231992 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=Ulmar is just a guy, but he know all the homestays in Karintak. 5-6 beds each. }} ===Shusha=== ''See [[Shusha]]'' ===Stepanakert=== ''See [[Stepanakert]]'' ===Aygestan (Baluja)=== * {{sleep | name=Alvart Dadayan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=3-4 people }} * {{sleep | name=Gago | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 201-204 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=Not for large groups, but couples. }} * {{sleep | name=Nver Dadayan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content= }} ===Patara (Ptretsik, Badara)=== * {{sleep | name=Albert and Laura | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 291403 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=5-6 beds. }} * {{sleep | name=Armen and Luisa | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 297429, +374 47 6 77312-274 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=3-4 beds. }} * {{sleep | name=Elmira (Emma) Hairapetian | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 288434| tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=3 beds. }} * {{sleep | name=Suren | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 231296 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content= }} ===Kolatak=== * {{sleep | name=Artur and Anahit Babayan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 240217 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=5 beds in separate bedrooms }} * {{sleep | name=Onnik and Amalia Balassanian | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 240858 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sergey and Nadia Harutyunian | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 209120 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=5 beds. }} ===Khachen=== * {{sleep | name=Narimon House | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=4-5 beds. }} ===Garnakar=== * {{sleep | name=Artush Mangasaryan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=10 beds and more. }} * {{sleep | name=Gagik Zakharyan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=10 beds and more. }} ===Vank=== * {{sleep | name=Fedya Ohanyan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 233939 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=3 beds, plus another 10 at their neighbour's. }} * {{sleep | name=Valo and Mareta Ohanyan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=4 beds. }} * {{sleep | name=Vano (Vanya) and Nurvard | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Vazgen and Dzovinar Baghdasarian | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=4 beds. }} ===Vaghuhas=== * {{sleep | name=Ara and Inga Adamian | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 220029 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=3-4 beds. }} * {{sleep | name=Elmard and Hranush (Sonia) Sarafian | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 293900 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=2 beds. }} * {{sleep | name=Vova and Alina Begnazarian | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 97 205058, +374 97 200299 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=6 beds. }} ===Dadivank=== There are a few empty houses where you might set up sleeping bags and spend the night. * {{sleep | name=Gegham Badalyan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+374 93574801 (his relative in Yerevan) | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hayk and Mrs. Alvart Danielian | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=3 bedrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Lova and Mrs. Maret | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=3 beds. }} * {{sleep | name=Movses and Shoghik | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=2 beds. }} * {{sleep | name=Rafik Sayan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=Not so comfortable, but in the village. }} ===Zuar=== * {{sleep | name=Sasha Hovhanessyan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content=5 beds. }} ==Stay safe== Follow all of the safety information and warnings off on the Janapar Trail website. Stay far from the front lines, which won't be a problem if you stick to the trail. There are reports of ammunition and mines in the forest between Gandzasar and Vaghuhas. Always stay on the track and align with locals before crossing this part. ==Go next== There is only [[Armenia]] which you can safely travel to after having visited [[Artsakh]]. {{usableitinerary}} {{geo|39.5191|47.0264}} {{PartOfItinerary|Asia itineraries}} 9l9qtx0mt0cpffxwzmmlvsu7iz4d95y 0 143499 5288860 5286890 2026-06-06T13:41:08Z Globetrotter30 2363356 /* Partition and aftermath */ added 5288860 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|British_Raj.jpg|disambig=Raj}} The '''British Raj''' was the rule of the [[British Empire|British]] Crown over [[South Asia]] and some nearby areas from 1858 to 1947. This guide deals mainly with the [[Indian Subcontinent]] &mdash; today the countries of [[India]], [[Pakistan]] and [[Bangladesh]] &mdash; in that period, and with aspects of the Raj left behind in those countries. However, the British presence in the region started long before the Crown took control in 1858 and their influence extended beyond the independence of India and Pakistan in 1947. Other areas were also administered as part of the Raj at times &mdash; [[Sri Lanka|Ceylon]], [[Myanmar|Burma]] (Lower Burma 1858-1937, Upper Burma 1886-1937), [[Aden]] (1858-1937), and even briefly [[Singapore]] (1858-1867) and [[Somalia]] (1884-1898). The Trucial States on the [[Persian Gulf]] were British protectorates 1820-1968 and for part of that time they were considered princely states of the Raj; after 1971 they became the [[United Arab Emirates]]. The Gulf states of [[Bahrain]], [[Kuwait]], [[Qatar]] and [[Oman]] were also governed as British protectorates from their colony in India at various points in their history. ==Understand== The region has a very long and complex history and we do not try to cover it all here, not even for the period of the Raj. ===Background=== The subcontinent had not been completely united at any point in history prior to British arrival, although several empires came quite close. The last two of these were in conflict when the British and other Europeans arrived. The great [[Islam|Muslim]] [[Mughal Empire]] ruled a substantial territory from 1526 on, and controlled nearly all the subcontinent by around 1700. After that it was displaced in many areas by the [[Hinduism|Hindu]] [[Maratha Empire]]. Other areas, notably [[Rajasthan]] and various parts of the [[Himalayas]], were a patchwork of small kingdoms independent of both empires. European trade with India is recorded as far back as a few centuries BCE, with some branches of the [[Silk Road]] passing through India, but modern European influence and colonisation began with the Portuguese when Vasco da Gama reached India via the [[Cape Route]] in 1498. Other European powers soon followed. By the mid-17th century, the British and French were also well-established and some of their European wars spilled over into conflicts in India. [[Pondicherry]] was held by the French and [[Goa]] by the Portuguese until after Indian independence in 1947, though both are now parts of India. The Dutch held [[Ceylon]] (now known as Sri Lanka) from 1640 to 1796, taking it from Portugal and eventually losing it to Britain; they also had trading posts on the Indian mainland, but never much territory. Although they were never a part of the Raj, the nearby [[Maldives]] came under British rule in 1796 during the annexation of Ceylon. From India, the British began colonising neighbouring [[Myanmar|Burma]] through the Anglo-Burmese Wars in 1824, ending with the defeat of the Burmese in 1885. Burma was governed at first as a province of India, but was later split off to form a separate colony in 1937. In the 17th and early 18th century, the focus was on trade and the first joint stock companies were set up to organise this trade. These companies amassed immense wealth and eventually came to possess vast swaths of land. The most successful of these was the British East India Company; at one point, this one company was conducting approximately half of all the world's trade. It had a large number of ships and its own army with some British troops but mainly ''sepoys'', Indian troops serving under British officers. The Dutch East India Company (VOC) was almost as rich, largely because the Dutch controlled the [[Spice Islands]] of Indonesia. The French had several companies at different times, with some spectacular failures but also considerable success. The British East India Company colonised other parts of Asia such as [[Bengkulu|Bencoolen]] in 1685, [[Penang]] in 1771, and [[Singapore]] in 1819. It also participated in the First Opium War from 1839 to 1842 that resulted in the colonisation of [[Hong Kong Island]]. As part of the Anglo-Dutch Treaty of 1824, Bencoolen was ceded to the Dutch, while the British got the Dutch colony of [[Malacca]] in exchange. The colonies of Penang, Singapore and Malacca were merged into the '''Straits Settlements''' in 1826. The Straits Settlements were governed from India until they were ceded by the British East India Company to the British crown in 1867, thus becoming a crown colony ruled directly from London. The switch from trading to ruling came after the Battle of [[Plassey]] in 1757; a company army defeated the French and their ally, the last Nawab of Bengal, so the company ended up in control of all the Nawab's territory: [[Bengal]], [[Bihar]] and [[Odisha|Orissa]]. Over the next century they more-or-less continually expanded their territory until they directly ruled most of the subcontinent; the rest was controlled by "princely states" ruled by local Maharajahs with varying degrees of British influence. Although the Himalayan kingdoms of [[Nepal]] and [[Bhutan]] also came under British suzerainty, through various treaties signed with the British, they were able to remain nominally independent throughout the years of the Raj. Nevertheless, many Nepalis would serve in the British Army as part of various Gurkha regiments, and were deployed throughout many parts of the empire. To this day, Gurkhas continue to be employed by governments throughout parts of the former empire, with Gurkha units in the British, Indian and [[Brunei|Bruneian]] armies, and in the police force of Singapore. ===The Raj=== In 1857, there was a large mutiny among the sepoys, Indian troops who served under British officers. It began in [[Meerut]] and soon spread across most of the [[Plains (India)|North Indian Plains]]. Several Indian rulers and parts of the populace joined the rebellion and it became a general uprising; the exception was the [[Punjab]] where the [[Sikhism|Sikh]] rulers supported the British. Important battles took place at [[Kanpur|Cawnpore]] and [[Lucknow]], both besieged by the rebels. The British besieged [[Jhansi]], which was ruled by the most famous of the Indian leaders, Mahharani Lakshmibai, sometimes called "India's Joan of Arc". [[Delhi]] was taken by the rebels attempting to restore the [[Mughal Empire]] to replace British rule. It was besieged by the British, and its fall marked the end of the rebellion. A good historical novel set during the mutiny is [[The_Flashman_Papers#Flashman in the Great Game|Flashman in the Great Game]]. After the mutiny was put down, the Crown took over administration from the East India Company, beginning the period of the Raj. They also seized the lands of various rulers who had supported the mutiny, including the last [[Mughal Empire|Mughal Emperor]], so the Crown ruled even more territory than the Company had. [[Calcutta]] was the capital of British India throughout the period of company rule and remained so under the Raj until in 1911 the government moved to [[Delhi/New Delhi|New Delhi]], a new capital built next to the much older city of [[Delhi]]. [[Shimla]] served as a summer capital with much of the government migrating there each year to escape the heat. All three places have many fine buildings and other sites left from those times. {{infobox|Princely states|The princely states were a method of "indirect rule", that granted some government to local authorities; there were over 500 such states. While at times local rulers had significant power, often princely states were created to "buy off" people who could threaten British rule and some titles were nominal at best. Still, many rulers of princely states had immense wealth and showed it by having palaces built that can still be visited or buying [[tourist trains|luxury trains]] that you can ride on.}} Even though ultimate control of most affairs lay with British authorities, their rule over India would not have been possible without the aid of native participation and often alliances with local rulers. The number of Brits in India doing administrative work was surprisingly small and some argue that it was exactly this hands-off ''laissez-faire'' approach to governing a vast empire, as well as the little regard that the government in London had for the Indian population at large, that resulted in disasters such as the 1876-1878 "Great famine". The Raj was hugely important for the formation of an Indian and to a lesser degree Pakistani national consciousness, and also led to the establishment of Indian diaspora communities throughout the former British Empire, often in unlikely places. Many Indians were shipped to far-flung parts of the empire as indentured servants as the British needed labour after the abolition of [[Atlantic slave trade|slavery]], while others went as colonial administrators, soldiers and policemen. In Africa, dictators like Idi Amin stoked racial hatred against people of Indian descent as many of them had come to accumulate some wealth as shopkeepers and businessmen. This culminated in the expulsion of the ethnic Indian community from [[Uganda]] in 1972. However, progress has been made in other parts of Africa, with [[Kenya]] formally recognising its ethnic Indian community as a tribe in 2017. During colonial rule, ethnic Chinese communities were established in the cities of [[Mumbai|Bombay]] and [[Kolkata|Calcutta]]. They were viewed with suspicion in the wake of the Sino-Indian War in 1962, and many were rounded up, interned and eventually expelled from the country, while even those that were allowed to remain often had their property confiscated by the government. It was not until 1998 that the ethnic Chinese were allowed to apply for Indian citizenship, and many of them continue to be stateless to this day despite having families that have lived in India for several generations. Although their numbers have dwindled substantially, there remains a significant ethnic Chinese community in Kolkata's Chinatown, and Mumbai's former Chinatown still contains vestiges of the former community in the form of Chinese temples. While India was often considered "the jewel in the crown of the British Empire", there was at least tacit acknowledgement as early as the 1920s that colonial rule would inevitably come to an end. However, this process was accelerated by the [[World War II|Second World War]] in which Indians fought for both the Axis and the Allies and some Axis sympathisers created an "Indian state" fighting against the British and for independence. The best known of these was the Japanese-backed Indian National Army (INA) led by Subhas Chandra Bose. The [[Indian independence movement|decisive force for independence]] was the (mostly) nonviolent movement of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, better known by the honorific Mahatma Gandhi (''mahā'', great + ''ātmā'', soul) and his followers. Gandhi was a British-educated lawyer who first came to prominence while working in South Africa and resisting the restrictions on Indians there. He strongly believed in traditional Hindu principles, wanted India to return to a simpler more rural form of society, and definitely wanted the British out. His was not the only group working toward independence, but it came to be the most important one. ===Partition of British India === [[File:Partition_of_India.PNG|thumb|Five nations that gained independence in 1947 and 1948]] There were many Muslims, spread through nearly all of the Raj but concentrated in some areas. A movement for an independent Muslim state arose in the same period as the independence movement, partly out of Muslim fears that Gandhi and others would create a state dominated by Hindus. Eventually, Gandhi and the British agreed, and at independence in 1947, the main territory of the Raj was partitioned into mostly-Hindu [[India]] and mostly-Muslim [[Pakistan]]. The partition was a major disaster. Several million people were uprooted, Muslims migrated from their homes in areas that would be part of India to live in Pakistan, with Hindus and Sikhs moving the other way. Mobs attacked migrants going both ways; most estimates of the death toll are a few hundred thousand, but some say well over a million. Gandhi was assassinated by Hindu fanatics who blamed him for the partition. Neither the Indian nor the Pakistani government was happy with the border as the British defined it; some areas, notably [[Kashmir]], are still disputed today and the two countries have fought several wars over these disputes. The first war broke out within a few months of partition. The partition created one Muslim country, Pakistan, with two parts, East and West. East Pakistan split off to become [[Bangladesh]] in 1971; there was a war over that as well. West Pakistan is now merely called "Pakistan". === Aftermath === The cession of certain areas to the British Raj by the [[Tibetan Empire]], and the unilateral annexation of others, continues to be unrecognized by [[China]], resulting in ongoing border disputes between China and India in [[Arunachal Pradesh]], Aksai Chin and the Trans-Karakorum Tract. These disputes resulted in several wars between China and India being fought in the 1960s. In the same period, 1947-48, two other countries in the region, Burma and Ceylon, also gained independence from Britain, as shown on the map. Later their governments would rename them [[Myanmar]] and [[Sri Lanka]] respectively. The Straits Settlements were dissolved in 1946, with the colonies of Malacca and Penang merged with the Federated Malay States and Unfederated Malay States to form the Malayan Union (later the Federation of Malaya), while Singapore was split off to form a separate colony. [[Malaya]] became independent in 1957 and changed its name to [[Malaysia]] with the addition of [[Singapore]] and the northern [[Borneo]] states of [[Sabah]] and [[Sarawak]] in 1963, while [[Brunei]] opted out of the federation. Singapore was expelled from the Federation of Malaysia in 1965 and became an independent city-state. The Gulf state of [[Kuwait]] was granted independence in 1961, while the [[Maldives]], another British colony in South Asia, would be granted independence in 1965. The Trucial States federated in 1968, and became independent as the [[United Arab Emirates]] in 1971. The remaining three British protectorates in the Gulf, [[Bahrain]], [[Qatar]] and [[Oman]], were also granted independence in 1971. Brunei became independent in 1984, while the last vestige of the British East India Company, [[Hong Kong]], was returned to China in 1997, thus bringing the history of British colonial rule in Asia to an end. The Sikhs, the third-largest religious group in India, did not initially demand their own state. Many of them fled from what's now Pakistan, and they now live mostly in the Indian part of [[Punjab (India)|Punjab]], but in the 1970s and 1980s clashes between Sikhs and the government under Indira Gandhi (not related to the Mahatma) resulted in her being killed by her Sikh bodyguards in 1984. ==See== [[File:Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Victoria Terminus).jpg|thumb|Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, built as Victoria Terminus in Bombay (now Mumbai) from 1878-87, is a notable example of Anglo-Indian architecture]] The British left behind a legacy of great architecture which is still evident in many parts of South Asia, including neo-Gothic and European styles of churches, which can be seen in what is today are railway stations, cantonments, courts, colleges and schools, churches, bridges and museums. However, a new Anglo-Indian style of architecture also developed, fusing Indian and particularly Mughal elements with European ones. Often it was the mixture English elements and components of specifically Islamic or Hindu architecture. This style was used by the British not only in the Indian Subcontinent but also for buildings like the railway stations they built in [[Kuala Lumpur]] and [[Ipoh]], Malaysia. The British introduced railways to the subcontinent and built a huge network of railway stations, many of which are still very well preserved. The major cities in the Subcontinent that are dotted with British architecture include [[Chennai]] (Madras), [[Kolkata]] (Calcutta), [[Mumbai]] (Bombay), [[Delhi]], [[Agra]], [[Karachi]], [[Nagpur]], [[Lahore]], [[Bhopal]] and [[Hyderabad]]. ===Pakistan=== *In [[Karachi]], the Mohatta Palace is a fine example of a blend of Islamic and British architecture. Frere Hall, St. Patrick Church and Empress Market all counted amongst the prominent and impressive work of Britishers. *[[Lahore]]'s Mall Road retains a variety of Gothic and Victorian-style buildings built during the British Raj. Lahore Museum, Aitchison College, Government College University, Tollinton Market, are some renowned buildings built by Britishers. ===India=== [[File:A building in Chennai.JPG|thumb|The Madras High Court, in an Anglo-Indian style called "Indo-Saracenic", was constructed in 1892]] *The Madras High Court building in [[Chennai]] (Madras) is a great example of Anglo-Indian architecture. *The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (previously Victoria Terminus) in [[Mumbai]] (Bombay) is truly splendid. *The Umed Bhawan Palace in [[Kota]] was built in Indo-Saracenic style in 1904. ===Bangladesh=== *[[Dhaka]] University includes some lovely Anglo-Indian buildings, including the Old High Court Building, Curzon Hall and the Department of Chemistry Building. ===Malaysia=== *[[Kuala Lumpur]] has several prominent Anglo-Indian buildings, including the '''Sultan Abdul Samad Building''', which used to house British colonial offices and now houses Malaysian government offices; the '''Railway Station''' and '''Railway Administration Building'''. *[[Ipoh]]'s '''Railway Station''' is probably the second most famous Anglo-Indian railway station in Malaysia after the one in Kuala Lumpur. ===Singapore=== * The '''Istana''', the official residence of the President of Singapore, was built for the colonial governor of the Straits Settlements in a fusion of British, Malay and Indian architectural styles. ==Eat== {{seealso|South Asian cuisine}} An Anglo-Indian cuisine developed, largely based on dishes that Indian cooks made for their British employers during the Raj. Some of the resulting dishes became more generally popular in India and remained part of Indian cuisine after independence, and many of them are also now popular with Britons in the United Kingdom, and elsewhere around the world where there are Indian restaurants. [[File:Mulligatawny-Soup Mumbai.jpg|thumb|Mulligatawny soup as served in [[Mumbai]]]] Each country has given this cuisine a regional variation, but some things are generally similar. One feature of Anglo-Indian cuisine that is uncommon in other Indian cuisines is the use of curry powders, including the so-called "Madras curry powder", which has more hot pepper in it than others. Other Indian cuisines usually make curries by starting with individual spices and, for example, very quickly wok-frying them in ghee or oil or dry-frying them. One well-known Anglo-Indian dish is ''mulligatawny soup''. The famous ''chicken tikka masala'' is not really Anglo-Indian, but may be of British origin, as it was allegedly created in Glasgow by a chef who originated from the Indian Subcontinent, although that story is questioned by some. What is certain, though, is that Indian cuisine has had a huge influence on the culinary culture of the United Kingdom, and London, Birmingham and other UK cities are still regarded by many as some of the best places in the world to have Indian food. In other areas with significant Indian communities, there are often Indian dishes that have been locally adapted or invented and thus, cannot be found in India. Examples of such dishes include ''roti prata'' or ''roti canai'', which is unique to the Indian communities of [[Singapore]] and [[Malaysia]], and the ''bunny chow'', which is the signature dish of the Indian community in the [[South Africa]]n city of [[Durban]]. <!--If and when this subsection gets too big, it can always be split off into its own article--> ==Indian diaspora== During the Raj, the British brought many indentured Indian labourers, as well as colonial administrators, soldiers and policemen, to their colonies around the world, many of whom established Indian diaspora communities. These communities maintained aspects of Indian culture to varying extents, but also integrated into the local culture, resulting in unique cultural blends that endure to this day. While in some places the Indians retain a distinct ethnic identity, in others they assimilated and intermarried to the point of being indistinguishable from their peers, though aspects of Indian cuisine and culture still survive in the local culture. As nearly every country has had some history of Indian immigration, this list is limited to countries and territories that have a history of British rule, are home to significant and distinct ethnic Indian communities that were established as a direct result of the Raj, and which tourists can visit to experience aspects of Indian culture. Mauritius, Guyana and some Caribbean nations celebrate '''Indian Arrival Day''', which commemorates the arrival of the first indentured Indian labourers in their respective countries and their subsequent contributions to society. ===Africa=== *[[Kenya]] *[[Mauritius]] *[[Seychelles]] *[[South Africa]] *[[Tanzania]] ===Asia=== *[[Hong Kong]] *[[Malaysia]] *[[Myanmar]] *[[Singapore]] ===Europe=== *[[United Kingdom]] ===North America=== *[[Barbados]] *[[Belize]] *[[Canada]] *[[Grenada]] *[[Jamaica]] *[[Saint Lucia]] *[[Saint Vincent and the Grenadines]] *[[Trinidad and Tobago]] ===Oceania=== *[[Fiji]] ===South America=== *[[Guyana]] *[[Suriname]] (an English colony from 1650-1667) ==See also== * [[British Empire]] * ''[[Around the World in Eighty Days]]'', a fictional voyage which passes through India * ''[[On the trail of Kipling's Kim]]'', Wikivoyage's account of the route described in a novel set in the Raj in the late 19th century * ''[[The Flashman Papers]]'', a series of comic historical novels, supposedly the memoirs of a cowardly and dishonest British officer in Victoria's time. Many of his adventures take place in India. {{PartOfTopic|British Empire}} {{PartOfTopic|South Asian history}} {{usabletopic}} fqk7gzs4b2ud5golquwqgi55oiglff0 0 145050 5288834 5269329 2026-06-06T12:12:13Z ~2026-33463-73 2418995 Improved factual accuracy 5288834 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Austria Hungary banner.jpg|caption=Imperial coat-of-arms on a barracks in Prague}} {{seealso|European history}} [[File:Imperial Coat of Arms of the Empire of Austria.svg|170px|thumb|right]] The '''[[Austria|Austro]]-[[Hungary|Hungarian]] Empire''', '''Austro-Hungarian Monarchy''' or '''Austria-Hungary''' (German: ''Österreichisch-Ungarische Monarchie'', Hungarian: ''Osztrák–Magyar Monarchia'') was a constitutional dual monarchy that existed from 1867 to 1918. It came with the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867, following a series of Hungarian wars of independence against Habsburg (Austrian) rule, and constituted the final phase of the '''Habsburg Empire'''. The Habsburg Empire dominated [[Central Europe]] and the northern [[Balkans]] from the end of the Middle Ages until its collapse at the end of [[World War I]]. At the time of its greatest extent, in the mid-19th century, it spanned about a thousand miles (1600 km) from [[Pavia]] in Northern Italy to [[Ternopil]] in Western Ukraine. The empire was ruled by the House of Habsburg, arguably Europe's mightiest dynasty. All countries within the Austro-Hungarian realm are republics today, very few people with memories from the empire are alive, and very few heirs to the Habsburg family are left; still, many palaces and artefacts have survived to this day. And even though the Cold War has severed many ties, feelings of kinship and cooperation still and once more exist between the former parts of the empire. During the 19th century, the empire was often seen as horrendously "backward" and in an era of rising nationalism it was dubbed "prison of nations". However, the "Austrian" half of the empire in particular granted remarkable linguistic and cultural rights for minorities and in the 21st century, the attempt at peaceful multi-ethnic coexistence – however flawed it was – is often retrospectively seen as something lost in the catastrophic [[World War I]], rather than a "backwardness" to be replaced by ethnically cleansed nation states. == Regions == [[File:Austria-Hungary map.svg|thumb|366x366px|A map of Austro-Hungarian provinces in 1918.]] '''Empire of Austria (Cisleithania)''': 1. [[Bohemia]] 2. [[Bukovina]] 3. [[Carinthia]] 4. Carniola (see [[Slovenia]]) 5. [[Dalmatia]] (including the [[Bay of Kotor]]) 6. Galicia (see [[Małopolskie]], [[Podkarpackie]] and [[Western Ukraine]]) 7. Austrian Littoral (see [[Istria]], [[Gorizia]]-[[Gradisca d'Isonzo|Gradisca]], and [[Trieste]]) 8. [[Lower Austria]] 9. Moravia (see [[North Moravia and Silesia]] and [[South Moravia]]) 10. [[Salzburg]] 11. Silesia (see [[North Moravia and Silesia]]) 12. [[Styria]] (including [[Eastern Slovenia]]) 13. [[Tyrol]] (including [[South Tyrol]]) 14. [[Upper Austria]] 15. [[Vorarlberg]] '''Kingdom of Hungary (Transleithania)''': 16. [[Hungary]] including [[Slovakia]], [[Burgenland]], [[Transylvania]], [[Crișana]], [[Maramureș]], [[Banat]] and [[Vojvodina]] 17. [[Central Croatia|Croatia]]-[[Slavonia]] * [[Rijeka|Fiume]] (un-numbered) '''Austro-Hungarian Condominium''': 18. [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]] Older provinces, lost before the Great War * [[Lombardy]]-[[Veneto|Venetia]] Overseas possessions: * [[Tianjin]] (part) ==Understand== [[File:Wien - Neue Hofburg.JPG|thumb|Vienna's Hofburg–Austro-Hungary's traditional centre of power]] The Early Middle Ages saw the rise of monarchies and city-states in Central Europe, which came to be united in the [[Frankish Empire]]. The empire was divided in the 10th century, with most of Germanic Europe being split in a complex patchwork of city-states. From AD&nbsp;962, many of them were united in a loose confederation known as the [[Holy Roman Empire]], with the claim to succeed the ancient [[Roman Empire]]. The German word for Emperor, ''Kaiser'', as well as the Russian equivalent ''czar'', derives from the name "Caesar", that was pronounced rather similarly to the modern German word "Kaiser" in classical Latin. Over the centuries, the Holy Roman Empire lost power to local rulers, and the Emperor became an electoral position of mostly sentimental value. Meanwhile, the East Roman Empire survived as the Byzantine Empire, ruled from Constantinople. As the city was lost to the [[Ottoman Empire]] who changed the capital's name to [[Istanbul]], both the Ottomans themselves and the [[Russian Empire]] claimed succession from Rome. The Ottomans and Russia came to be Austria's main rivals, though occasionally their allies. [[File:Melk - Stift (2).JPG|thumb|[[Melk]] Abbey—a splendid symbol of Austrian Catholicism and Counter-Reformation]] The house of Habsburg, whose ancestral seat is in the Swiss canton of [[Aargau]], ascended the throne of Austria in 1282. From 1438 to 1806 the dynasty almost continually held the titles of German king and Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. From 1516 to 1700, the Habsburgs also controlled the vast [[Spain|Spanish Empire]]. Ferdinand I of Austria was elected King of [[Bohemia]] (now in the [[Czech Republic]]) in 1526 and annexed [[Hungary]] in the same year, thereby also acquiring [[Croatia]] and [[Slovakia]]. [[File:Budapest Opera House interior.jpg|thumb|Budapest Opera house]] While the [[Protestant Reformation]] swept northern Europe, Austria remained Catholic. In the early 17th century, Protestant states revolted against the Holy Roman Empire. The conflict evolved to the [[Thirty Years' War]], in which the Holy Roman Emperor lost all significant power outside Austria and Bohemia. The multiethnic Habsburg Monarchy, lying partly within and partly outside the Empire, became a great power in its own right, and a destination on the [[Grand Tour]]. Vienna became a centre for [[European classical music]] and other arts, boasting composers such as Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert. Following the 1789 French Revolution, the [[Kingdom of France]] became Austria's main rival in the French Revolutionary Wars, and later the [[Napoleonic Wars]]. Napoleon Bonaparte became Emperor of the French in May 1804 to usurp the Imperial glory. He planned to conquer more of Europe, and thereby chances to be elected as Holy Roman Emperor. Francis II styled himself Emperor of Austria two months later, to secure his title. In 1805, Napoleon defeated Austria, and forced them to cede much territory. Francis formally dissolved the Holy Roman Empire in 1806, to avoid losing the crown to Napoleon. Austria was weakened, and defeated by Napoleon again in 1812. As much of Napoleon's army perished in a campaign against the [[Russian Empire]], Austria joined a coalition that eventually defeated the Napoleonic Empire, and the 1815 Congress of Vienna restored the Austrian Empire as one of Europe's great powers. [[File:HUN-2015-Budapest-Hungarian Parliament (Budapest) 2015-01.jpg|thumb|Parliament building in Budapest, a prime example for showy late-19th century ''k. u. k.'' architecture]] [[Prussia]] led an alliance that defeated Austria in the 1866 Austro-Prussian war, and became the core state of the [[German Empire]] in 1871, with an emperor of their own. Austria-Hungary was no longer the dominant power in Central Europe. However, the 1870s ''Gründerzeit'' ("founders' period") brought a great economic boom as well as a long-lasting construction boom and the emergence of a highly ornamental, eclectic-historicist architectural style that is considered typical for the Habsburg lands. The most representative examples of this period are along the Vienna Ring Road, but buildings of a similar style can be found all over the former Empire. In contrast to most other European empires, Austria-Hungary had no persistent colonies overseas. In 1778, the Empire founded settlements on the [[Nicobar Islands]], and on [[Maputo|Maputo Bay]] in [[Mozambique]]. Both were abandoned within a few years. After suppressing the [[Imperial China|Qing Dynasty]]-backed Boxer Rebellion as part of the Eight-Nation Alliance in 1901, Austria-Hungary had a concession zone in [[Tianjin]] from 1901 to 1917. In the 19th century, particularly in the long reign of emperor Franz Joseph (1848-1916), nationalism swept Europe, and many ethnic groups requested independence, or at least more autonomy. The Kingdom of Hungary earned more recognition in the Compromise of 1867, styling the empire as Austria-Hungary. While other European countries were formed or reformed according to nationalist and democratic ideas, the empire was still based on divine right, feudalism, and royal marriages. After 1867, many institutions of the Empire were styled "imperial and royal", referring to the two crowns of Austria and Hungary, ''kaiserlich und königlich'' in German. This was usually abbreviated to "k. u. k." in Austria and "k. k." in Hungary (the butt of many jokes in military and diplomatic circles) and led to the country's nicknames "k. u. k Monarchie" or "Kakanien". Discontent among the Slavic peoples was supported by the [[Russian Empire]], and led up to the 1914 assassination of Franz Joseph's heir Archduke Franz Ferdinand (married to a Czech countess, he supported Slavic rights within the empire, if only to knock down the Magyars a peg) in [[Sarajevo]], which became the igniting spark of [[World War I]]; at its time known as "The Great War". The war and the subsequent political revolts led to the fall of Austria-Hungary, as well as the Russian, German and Ottoman empires. The empire was a forerunner in science and technology. Vienna and Prague were connected by a telegraph line as early as 1847. The ''Telefon Hírmondó'' was a broadcast service in Budapest founded in 1893, the first and most successful of its kind. Budapest [[Istanbul/Galata#Get in|arguably]] has the world's second oldest underground railway. The [[Orient Express]] was a legendary rail line, with much of its length through Austria-Hungary. Other than [[Austria]] and [[Hungary]], the empire's territory is today divided between [[Italy]], [[Slovenia]], [[Croatia]], [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]], [[Serbia]], [[Romania]], [[Ukraine]], [[Slovakia]], the [[Czech Republic]] and [[Poland]]. ==Get around== The Austro-Hungarian Empire was tied together by railroads and many of them survived the Cold War and the general neglect of railway infrastructure in the twentieth century or have been restored in recent times. In addition to that, there was an effort even through the years of European division to ensure a state of good repair for some roads linking Germany and other destination countries for work migrants with their former homelands to the South and East. As the Iron Curtain opened, traffic flows changed once more and the Austrian Railway, ÖBB, is slowly but surely acquiring an amount of international connections out of proportion with the size of the country, largely focused in the "k.u.k. lands" (''kaiserlich und königlich'', i.e. the former Austria-Hungary), Germany and Switzerland. ==Talk== [[File:AHK 2 1914 obverse.jpg|thumb|Multilingual banknote]] [[German phrasebook|German]] used to be the lingua franca of the empire and Central Europe in general. This ended after [[World War II in Europe|World War II]], as millions of German-speakers were expelled from the [[Soviet Union]], Poland, Czechoslovakia and several other nations, to present-day Germany and Austria. Still, the empire was multi-ethnic, with recognition of local languages—its krone banknotes bore text in no less than eight languages in addition to German and Hungarian. During the 19th century the Hungarian half of the Empire had an even more aggressive language policy marginalizing linguistic minorities and strongly Magyarizing many places, the effects of which can be seen to this day. In addition, the Austro-Hungarian Empire was, for a time, a major patron of operas in Italian as well as German, and many of the upper class German-speaking subjects of the empire also understood some Italian and French. German still plays some role as a second or third language in the area, but oftentimes it has been relegated to a secondary position behind English or Russian, not least because the German-language states want to avoid the appearance of cultural imperialism. ==Destinations== {{Mapframe|46|16|zoom=5|layer=W|height=500|width=500}} ===Austria=== * {{listing | name=[[Vienna]] | alt=Wien; Bécs | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.208 | long=16.373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The primary capital. Big parts of its architecture and urban design date from an era when it was supposed it would "soon" become a major imperial capital of four million or more inhabitants }} * {{listing | name=[[Graz]] | lat=47.0667 | long=15.4333 | content=Capital of Inner Austria, with an [[old town]] recognized by the UNESCO. The famous Schlossberg fortress repelled many Ottoman attacks. }} * {{listing | name=[[Salzburg]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.8 | long=13.05 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Former capital of an archbishopric that was a separate state within the Holy Roman Empire and was only annexed by Austria in 1805. Hence, Salzburg's most famous son, Mozart, was considered a foreigner when he came to Vienna. }} * {{listing | name=[[Melk]] | lat=48.2282 | long=15.3306 | content=Enormous Baroque abbey looking over the picturesque Danube valley of [[Wachau]]. An exemplary symbol of Counter-Reformation and absolutistic pageantry. }} * {{listing | name=[[Neusiedl Lake]] | alt=Fertő | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.833 | long=16.75 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Located on the Austro-Hungarian border in the multiethnic [[Burgenland]] region (German-speaking Austrians, Hungarians, Croatians), the cultural landscape around the lake is a UNESCO World Heritage site. }} ===Hungary=== * {{listing | name=[[Budapest]] | lat=47.4908 | long=19.081 | content=The capital of the Hungarian half of the empire. It boomed massively during the late-19th century, resulting in splendid boulevards lined with representative Habsburg-style buildings, and one of the first subway lines in the world. }} * {{listing | name=[[Győr]] | alt=Raab | lat=47.6882 | long=17.6344 | content=Former "royal free city" of the Kingdom of Hungary, traditional trade center with Baroque old town. Since the transformation of 1990 it is once again an economic boomtown in the centre of the triangle Vienna–Bratislava–Budapest. }} * {{listing | name=[[Pécs]] | alt=Fünfkirchen; Five Churches | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.0764 | long=18.228 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Hungary's fifth largest city has a strongly multicultural heritage. The cultural centre of Hungary's Germans and Romani hosts associations and cultural institutions of nine ethnic minority groups. }} * {{listing | name=[[Sopron]] | alt=Ödenburg | lat=47.6817 | long=16.5917 | content=Beautiful old town with medieval and Baroque buildings. It belonged to the Hungarian half of the empire even though the majority population was German-speaking. }} * {{listing | name=[[Szeged]] | alt=Segedin | lat=46.2539 | long=20.149 | content=Temporary capital of Hungary during the 1848/49 revolution; now located near the Hungarian–Romanian–Serbian border triangle. Famous for paprika and salami. }} ===Bosnia and Herzegovina=== * {{listing | name=[[Sarajevo]] | alt=Sarajewo; Szarajevó | lat=43.85136 | long=18.38867 | content=The city where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated, marking the beginning of the end for the Empire. }} ===Croatia=== [[File:Pabellón del Arte, Zagreb, Croacia, 2014-04-20, DD 05.JPG|thumb|Art Pavillion, Zagreb]] * {{listing | name=[[Zagreb]] | alt=Agram; Zágráb | lat=45.8167 | long=15.9833 | content=Capital of Croatia, which was an autonomous kingdom within the Empire. }} * {{listing | name=[[Rijeka]] | alt=Fiume; St. Veit am Flaum | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.3278 | long=14.4445 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Mediterranean seaport that belonged to Hungary but had a multiethnic population of Italians, Croats, Slovenes, Hungarians and Germans. After the dissolution of Austro-Hungary, it was subject of the "Fiume Question", leading to the creation of a short-lived independent free state. }} * {{listing | name=[[Dubrovnik]] | alt=Ragusa | url= | email= | address= | lat=42.6407 | long=18.109 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The formerly autonomous Republic of Ragusa was awarded to Austria at the Congress of Vienna in 1815. The area around the harbour city on the Adriatic subsequently formed the southernmost tip of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. }} ===Czech Republic=== [[File:Karlovy Vary pohled od stezky Jeana de Carro (4).jpg|thumb|Karlovy Vary in the West Bohemian Spa Triangle]] * {{listing | name=[[Prague]] | alt=Prag; Praha | lat=50.0664 | long=14.373 | content=Capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia that was the Habsburg rulers' main residence from 1583 to 1611. }} * {{listing | name=[[Brno]] | alt=Brünn | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.2 | long=16.6167 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Historic capital of the Moravia region and second-biggest city of the Czech Republic. It grew significantly during the 18th and 19th century which can be seen from its typical Habsburg-style architecture. }} * {{listing | name=[[Český Krumlov]] | alt=Böhmisch Krumau | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.8111 | long=14.3152 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=One of the most beautiful old towns in Bohemia with rich Baroque architecture and an impressive castle. Until 1945, most of the population was German-speaking. }} * {{listing | name=West Bohemian Spa Triangle | alt=Westböhmisches Bäderdreieck | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.2305 | long=12.8725 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=[[Karlovy Vary]] (Carlsbad), [[Františkovy Lázně]] (Franzensbad) and [[Mariánské Lázně]] (Marienbad) – the Austro-Hungarian aristocracy's favorite places to relax and recover. }} * {{listing | name=[[Slavkov u Brna]] | alt=Austerlitz | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.153 | long=16.8786 | directions=20 km east of [[Brno]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-19 | content=Site of the Battle of Austerlitz of 1805, also known as the Battle of the Three Emperors, Austria's decisive defeat in the [[Napoleonic Wars]]. }} * {{listing | name=[[Lednice–Valtice Cultural Landscape]] | alt=Lednicko-valtický areál; Kulturlandschaft Eisgrub–Feldsberg | lat=48.781 | long=16.786 | content=Vast landscape park with several palaces and stately homes, created under the Dukes of Liechtenstein during the 17th to 19th centuries. UNESCO World Heritage site. }} * {{see | name=Site of the Battle of Königgrätz | address=Sadová |directions=15 km northwest of [[Hradec Králové]] | lat=50.2972 | long=15.7403 | wikidata= | content=Decisive Prussian victory over Austria in the German Fraternal War (1866). It marked the exclusion of Austria from Germany and led to the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867, the rift within the lute of Austrian great power status. }} ===Italy=== [[File:Ayuntamiento, Trieste, Italia, 2017-04-15, DD 10.jpg|thumb|Piazza Unità d’Italia (formerly Franz Joseph Square), Trieste]] * {{listing | name=[[South Tyrol]] | alt=Südtirol; Alto Adige | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.5 | long=11.33 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | content=A predominantly German-speaking region that was separated from Austrian Tyrol after World War I. }} * {{listing | name=[[Trieste]] | alt=Triest; Trst | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.6333 | long=13.8000 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The empire's major port and naval base. Europe's three main cultural and linguistic regions meet here: Romance, Germanic, and Slavic. }} * {{listing | name=[[Milan]] | alt=Mailand; Milano | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.4625 | long=9.1864 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=The Northern Italian city was under Austrian rule from 1704 until the Italian ''Risorgimento'' 1859. During that period, the Teatro alla Scala was built and Verdi's opera ''Nabucco'' debuted. }} * {{listing | name=[[Venice]] | alt=Venedig; Venezia | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.4386111 | long=12.3266 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Once the seat of the mighty Venetian Republic and the cradle of the [[Medieval and Renaissance Italy|Renaissance]], Venice was only briefly part of Austria-Hungary, and some Habsburg obelisks and monuments in ''Venedig'' remain. }} ===Poland=== * {{listing | name=[[Kraków]] |alt=Cracow; Krakau | lat=50.06185 | long=19.93686 | content=The erstwhile royal capital of Poland was a Free City under shared Austrian, Prussian and Russian protectorate until it was annexed by Austria in 1846. In the following decades it served as the cultural centre of the Empire's Polish possessions, until Polish sovereignty was restored in 1918. Representative architecture from the late-19th and early-20th century along the main boulevards are reminiscent of Vienna or Budapest. }} * {{listing | name=[[Wrocław]] |alt=Breslau | lat=51.1098 | long=17.0327 | content=The capital of Silesia belonged to the Bohemian crown, and therefore the Habsburg Empire, until [[Prussia]] won the First Silesian War in 1742. Nevertheless many Renaissance and Baroque buildings remain from the Austrian era. With its cosmopolitan lifestyle, theatres and numerous cafés, the city still has a certain Viennese charm. }} ===Romania=== [[File:Universitatea Politehnica Timisoara - Rectorat.jpg|thumb|Timișoara Polytechnic]] * {{listing | name=[[Alba Iulia]] | alt=Gyulafehérvár, Karlsburg | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.0764 | long=23.5728 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Former capital of [[Transylvania]]. Within a large, well-preserved 18th-century citadel, its old town features a number of Habsburg-era Baroque buildings. }} * {{listing | name=[[Cluj-Napoca]] | alt=Kolozsvár, Klausenburg | lat=46.7706 | long=23.5905 | content=Unofficial capital of Transylvania and biggest city in the formerly Austro-Hungarian part of Romania. Many buildings in the Hungarian Art Nouveau (Secession) style, two national theatres and two opera houses (one each for Romanian- and Hungarian-speakers), as well as trilingual signage of public buildings bear evidence of this heritage. }} * {{listing | name=[[Timișoara]] | alt=Temesvár, Temeschwar | lat=45.7561 | long=21.2294 | content=Historical capital of the [[Banat]] region which has been called a "little Vienna" for its rich Habsburg-era architecture and lifestyle }} * {{listing | name=[[Târgu Mureș]] | alt=Marosvásárhely, Neumarkt am Mieresch | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.55 | long=24.5667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Capital of [[Szeklerland]], an ethnic Hungarian-majority region in central Romania. City centre with Hungarian Secession (Art Nouveau) styled buildings from the early-1900s. }} ===Serbia=== * {{listing | name=[[Novi Sad]] | alt=Neoplanta; Neusatz; Újvidék | lat=45.255 | long=19.8447 | content=Capital of the formerly Austro-Hungarian [[Vojvodina]], now part of Serbia. }} ===Slovakia=== [[File:Slowakisches Nationaltheater - Altes Gebäude (Bratislava).jpg|thumb|Slovak National Theatre, Bratislava]] * {{listing | name=[[Bratislava]] | alt=Pressburg; Pozsony | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.143889 | long=17.109722 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Capital of the Hungarian Kingdom, until Buda(pest) took this role in 1783, Bratislava remained the seat of its parliament until 1848. Before World War I, most inhabitants spoke German or Hungarian, while less than 20% were Slovaks. }} * {{listing | name=[[Košice]] | alt=Kaschau; Kassa | lat=48.7203 | long=21.2581 | content=De-facto capital of Eastern Slovakia, beautiful old town with heritage buildings from Gothic to Art Nouveau. European Capital of Culture of 2013. }} * {{listing | name=[[Spiš]] | alt=Zips; Szepes | lat=49.013 | long=20.678 | content=This region at the foot of the Tatras used to be a predominantly German-speaking enclave within the Kingdom of Hungary, thus another piece of the multiethnic patchwork that formed the Danube monarchy. The Renaissance town of [[Levoča]] and the medieval castle of [[Spišské Podhradie|Spišsky hrad]] are on the Unesco World Heritage list. }} ===Slovenia=== *{{listing | name=[[Ljubljana]] | alt=Laibach | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.055556 | long=14.508333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The capital of Slovenia, with many beautiful Habsburg-era buildings. |wikidata=|lastedit=2019-07-03}} * {{listing | name=[[Maribor]] |alt=Marburg an der Drau | lat=46.5575 | long=15.6455 | content=Former capital of Lower Styria, now eastern Slovenia, it was a predominantly German-speaking city. Beautiful old town with medieval, Renaissance and Baroque structures. }} ===Switzerland=== * {{see | name=Habsburg | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.4627 | long=8.181 | directions=4 km southwest of [[Brugg]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2019-07-03| content=Ancestral castle of the Habsburg dynasty, in Switzerland. }} ===Ukraine=== [[File:Lviv.Theatre.of.Opera.and.Ballet.jpg|thumb|Lviv opera house]] *{{listing | name=[[Lviv]] | alt=Lemberg | lat=49.8500 | long=24.0167 | content=The capital of the Kingdom of Galicia and Lodomeria, and the Empire's largest city in present-day Ukraine. Today, it remains a bastion of Catholicism in majority Eastern Orthodox Ukraine. }} * {{listing | name=[[Chernivtsi]] | alt=Czernowitz | lat=48.2922 | long=25.9353 | content=The capital and university city of the formerly Austro-Hungarian region [[Bukovina]], classic example of a strongly multi-ethnic region. }} * {{listing | name=[[Uzhhorod]] | alt=Ungvár | lat=48.6239 | long=22.295 | content=Capital of Carpatho-Ukraine that once belonged to the Hungarian half of the empire. Uzhhorod was a stronghold of the anti-Habsburg rebels during Rákóczi's War of Independence (1703–1711). Old town with Baroque Greek Catholic cathedral and former synagogue. }} ===China=== [[File:The villa of Yuan Shikai in Tianjin.jpg|thumb|Former residence of Yuan Shih-kai, the second President of the Republic of China, in the former Austro-Hungarian concession in Tianjin]] * {{listing | name=[[Tianjin]]| alt=Tientsin | lat=39.1336 | long=117.2054 | content=The main port city serving the Chinese capital [[Beijing]] today, it was home to numerous foreign concessions in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Austria-Hungary was part of the Eight-Nation Alliance that suppressed the Qing Dynasty-backed Boxer Rebellion in 1901, resulting in it obtaining a concession in Tianjin from 1901-1917. Today, the former Austro-Hungarian concession is still home to numerous colonial buildings that were built in an Austrian architectural style. }} ==Itineraries== * [[Orient Express]], a legendary rail line between Paris and Istanbul, with much of its distance within Austria-Hungary * The [[Danube]] flows through many of the most important cities of the former Empire * [[EuroVelo cycling routes]] EV4 (Prague–Brno–Kraków–Lviv), EV6 ([[Danube Cycleway]]: Vienna–Bratislava–Budapest–Belgrade), EV7 (Prague–Linz–Salzburg–Bolzano), EV9 (Wrocław–Brno–Vienna–Ljubljana–Trieste), EV11 (Kraków–Košice–Szeged), EV13 ([[Iron Curtain Trail]]) * The [https://ciro-trail.com/en/ Ćiro Trail]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is a 157-km rail trail for [[cycling]] in what was the southern reaches of the empire between [[Mostar]] and [[Dubrovnik]]. It follows the tracks of a dismantled Austro-Hungarian narrow gauge railway, and crosses several 19th-century tunnels and bridges. ==See also== * [[British Empire]] * [[Danish Empire]] * [[Dutch Empire]] * [[French Colonial Empire]] * [[German Empire]] * [[Italian Empire]] * [[Japanese colonial empire]] * [[Portuguese Empire]] * [[Russian Empire]] * [[Spanish Empire]] * [[Swedish Empire]] {{PartOfTopic|European history|Central Europe}} {{usabletopic}} 041aeq1ejgse6rsfd0ypznkny7i3fcg 5288905 5288834 2026-06-06T16:53:24Z Ibaman 195012 Reverted edits by [[Special:Contributions/~2026-33463-73|~2026-33463-73]] ([[User talk:~2026-33463-73|talk]]) to last version by [[User:InternetArchiveBot|InternetArchiveBot]] 5269329 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Austria Hungary banner.jpg|caption=Imperial coat-of-arms on a barracks in Prague}} {{seealso|European history}} [[File:Imperial Coat of Arms of the Empire of Austria.svg|170px|thumb|right]] The '''[[Austria|Austro]]-[[Hungary|Hungarian]] Empire''' (German: ''Österreichisch-Ungarische Monarchie'', Hungarian: ''Osztrák–Magyar Monarchia'') and its predecessors (the Habsburg Monarchy, and the Austrian Empire) dominated [[Central Europe]] and the northern [[Balkans]] from the end of the Middle Ages until its collapse at the end of [[World War I]]. At the time of its greatest extent, in the mid-19th century, it spanned about a thousand miles (1600 km) from [[Pavia]] in Northern Italy to [[Ternopil]] in Western Ukraine. The empire was ruled by the House of Habsburg, arguably Europe's mightiest dynasty. All countries within the Austro-Hungarian realm are republics today, very few people with memories from the empire are alive, and very few heirs to the Habsburg family are left; still, many palaces and artefacts have survived to this day. And even though the Cold War has severed many ties, feelings of kinship and cooperation still and once more exist between the former parts of the empire. During the 19th century, the empire was often seen as horrendously "backward" and in an era of rising nationalism it was dubbed "prison of nations". However, the "Austrian" half of the empire in particular granted remarkable linguistic and cultural rights for minorities and in the 21st century, the attempt at peaceful multi-ethnic coexistence – however flawed it was – is often retrospectively seen as something lost in the catastrophic [[World War I]], rather than a "backwardness" to be replaced by ethnically cleansed nation states. == Regions == [[File:Austria-Hungary map.svg|thumb|366x366px|A map of Austro-Hungarian provinces in 1918.]] '''Empire of Austria (Cisleithania)''': 1. [[Bohemia]] 2. [[Bukovina]] 3. [[Carinthia]] 4. Carniola (see [[Slovenia]]) 5. [[Dalmatia]] (including the [[Bay of Kotor]]) 6. Galicia (see [[Małopolskie]], [[Podkarpackie]] and [[Western Ukraine]]) 7. Austrian Littoral (see [[Istria]], [[Gorizia]]-[[Gradisca d'Isonzo|Gradisca]], and [[Trieste]]) 8. [[Lower Austria]] 9. Moravia (see [[North Moravia and Silesia]] and [[South Moravia]]) 10. [[Salzburg]] 11. Silesia (see [[North Moravia and Silesia]]) 12. [[Styria]] (including [[Eastern Slovenia]]) 13. [[Tyrol]] (including [[South Tyrol]]) 14. [[Upper Austria]] 15. [[Vorarlberg]] '''Kingdom of Hungary (Transleithania)''': 16. [[Hungary]] including [[Slovakia]], [[Burgenland]], [[Transylvania]], [[Crișana]], [[Maramureș]], [[Banat]] and [[Vojvodina]] 17. [[Central Croatia|Croatia]]-[[Slavonia]] * [[Rijeka|Fiume]] (un-numbered) '''Austro-Hungarian Condominium''': 18. [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]] Older provinces, lost before the Great War * [[Lombardy]]-[[Veneto|Venetia]] Overseas possessions: * [[Tianjin]] (part) ==Understand== [[File:Wien - Neue Hofburg.JPG|thumb|Vienna's Hofburg–Austro-Hungary's traditional centre of power]] The Early Middle Ages saw the rise of monarchies and city-states in Central Europe, which came to be united in the [[Frankish Empire]]. The empire was divided in the 10th century, with most of Germanic Europe being split in a complex patchwork of city-states. From AD&nbsp;962, many of them were united in a loose confederation known as the [[Holy Roman Empire]], with the claim to succeed the ancient [[Roman Empire]]. The German word for Emperor, ''Kaiser'', as well as the Russian equivalent ''czar'', derives from the name "Caesar", that was pronounced rather similarly to the modern German word "Kaiser" in classical Latin. Over the centuries, the Holy Roman Empire lost power to local rulers, and the Emperor became an electoral position of mostly sentimental value. Meanwhile, the East Roman Empire survived as the Byzantine Empire, ruled from Constantinople. As the city was lost to the [[Ottoman Empire]] who changed the capital's name to [[Istanbul]], both the Ottomans themselves and the [[Russian Empire]] claimed succession from Rome. The Ottomans and Russia came to be Austria's main rivals, though occasionally their allies. [[File:Melk - Stift (2).JPG|thumb|[[Melk]] Abbey—a splendid symbol of Austrian Catholicism and Counter-Reformation]] The house of Habsburg, whose ancestral seat is in the Swiss canton of [[Aargau]], ascended the throne of Austria in 1282. From 1438 to 1806 the dynasty almost continually held the titles of German king and Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. From 1516 to 1700, the Habsburgs also controlled the vast [[Spain|Spanish Empire]]. Ferdinand I of Austria was elected King of [[Bohemia]] (now in the [[Czech Republic]]) in 1526 and annexed [[Hungary]] in the same year, thereby also acquiring [[Croatia]] and [[Slovakia]]. [[File:Budapest Opera House interior.jpg|thumb|Budapest Opera house]] While the [[Protestant Reformation]] swept northern Europe, Austria remained Catholic. In the early 17th century, Protestant states revolted against the Holy Roman Empire. The conflict evolved to the [[Thirty Years' War]], in which the Holy Roman Emperor lost all significant power outside Austria and Bohemia. The multiethnic Habsburg Monarchy, lying partly within and partly outside the Empire, became a great power in its own right, and a destination on the [[Grand Tour]]. Vienna became a centre for [[European classical music]] and other arts, boasting composers such as Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert. Following the 1789 French Revolution, the [[Kingdom of France]] became Austria's main rival in the French Revolutionary Wars, and later the [[Napoleonic Wars]]. Napoleon Bonaparte became Emperor of the French in May 1804 to usurp the Imperial glory. He planned to conquer more of Europe, and thereby chances to be elected as Holy Roman Emperor. Francis II styled himself Emperor of Austria two months later, to secure his title. In 1805, Napoleon defeated Austria, and forced them to cede much territory. Francis formally dissolved the Holy Roman Empire in 1806, to avoid losing the crown to Napoleon. Austria was weakened, and defeated by Napoleon again in 1812. As much of Napoleon's army perished in a campaign against the [[Russian Empire]], Austria joined a coalition that eventually defeated the Napoleonic Empire, and the 1815 Congress of Vienna restored the Austrian Empire as one of Europe's great powers. [[File:HUN-2015-Budapest-Hungarian Parliament (Budapest) 2015-01.jpg|thumb|Parliament building in Budapest, a prime example for showy late-19th century ''k. u. k.'' architecture]] [[Prussia]] led an alliance that defeated Austria in the 1866 Austro-Prussian war, and became the core state of the [[German Empire]] in 1871, with an emperor of their own. Austria-Hungary was no longer the dominant power in Central Europe. However, the 1870s ''Gründerzeit'' ("founders' period") brought a great economic boom as well as a long-lasting construction boom and the emergence of a highly ornamental, eclectic-historicist architectural style that is considered typical for the Habsburg lands. The most representative examples of this period are along the Vienna Ring Road, but buildings of a similar style can be found all over the former Empire. In contrast to most other European empires, Austria-Hungary had no persistent colonies overseas. In 1778, the Empire founded settlements on the [[Nicobar Islands]], and on [[Maputo|Maputo Bay]] in [[Mozambique]]. Both were abandoned within a few years. After suppressing the [[Imperial China|Qing Dynasty]]-backed Boxer Rebellion as part of the Eight-Nation Alliance in 1901, Austria-Hungary had a concession zone in [[Tianjin]] from 1901 to 1917. In the 19th century, particularly in the long reign of emperor Franz Joseph (1848-1916), nationalism swept Europe, and many ethnic groups requested independence, or at least more autonomy. The Kingdom of Hungary earned more recognition in the Compromise of 1867, styling the empire as Austria-Hungary. While other European countries were formed or reformed according to nationalist and democratic ideas, the empire was still based on divine right, feudalism, and royal marriages. After 1867, many institutions of the Empire were styled "imperial and royal", referring to the two crowns of Austria and Hungary, ''kaiserlich und königlich'' in German. This was usually abbreviated to "k. u. k." in Austria and "k. k." in Hungary (the butt of many jokes in military and diplomatic circles) and led to the country's nicknames "k. u. k Monarchie" or "Kakanien". Discontent among the Slavic peoples was supported by the [[Russian Empire]], and led up to the 1914 assassination of Franz Joseph's heir Archduke Franz Ferdinand (married to a Czech countess, he supported Slavic rights within the empire, if only to knock down the Magyars a peg) in [[Sarajevo]], which became the igniting spark of [[World War I]]; at its time known as "The Great War". The war and the subsequent political revolts led to the fall of Austria-Hungary, as well as the Russian, German and Ottoman empires. The empire was a forerunner in science and technology. Vienna and Prague were connected by a telegraph line as early as 1847. The ''Telefon Hírmondó'' was a broadcast service in Budapest founded in 1893, the first and most successful of its kind. Budapest [[Istanbul/Galata#Get in|arguably]] has the world's second oldest underground railway. The [[Orient Express]] was a legendary rail line, with much of its length through Austria-Hungary. Other than [[Austria]] and [[Hungary]], the empire's territory is today divided between [[Italy]], [[Slovenia]], [[Croatia]], [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]], [[Serbia]], [[Romania]], [[Ukraine]], [[Slovakia]], the [[Czech Republic]] and [[Poland]]. ==Get around== The Austro-Hungarian Empire was tied together by railroads and many of them survived the Cold War and the general neglect of railway infrastructure in the twentieth century or have been restored in recent times. In addition to that, there was an effort even through the years of European division to ensure a state of good repair for some roads linking Germany and other destination countries for work migrants with their former homelands to the South and East. As the Iron Curtain opened, traffic flows changed once more and the Austrian Railway, ÖBB, is slowly but surely acquiring an amount of international connections out of proportion with the size of the country, largely focused in the "k.u.k. lands" (''kaiserlich und königlich'', i.e. the former Austria-Hungary), Germany and Switzerland. ==Talk== [[File:AHK 2 1914 obverse.jpg|thumb|Multilingual banknote]] [[German phrasebook|German]] used to be the lingua franca of the empire and Central Europe in general. This ended after [[World War II in Europe|World War II]], as millions of German-speakers were expelled from the [[Soviet Union]], Poland, Czechoslovakia and several other nations, to present-day Germany and Austria. Still, the empire was multi-ethnic, with recognition of local languages—its krone banknotes bore text in no less than eight languages in addition to German and Hungarian. During the 19th century the Hungarian half of the Empire had an even more aggressive language policy marginalizing linguistic minorities and strongly Magyarizing many places, the effects of which can be seen to this day. In addition, the Austro-Hungarian Empire was, for a time, a major patron of operas in Italian as well as German, and many of the upper class German-speaking subjects of the empire also understood some Italian and French. German still plays some role as a second or third language in the area, but oftentimes it has been relegated to a secondary position behind English or Russian, not least because the German-language states want to avoid the appearance of cultural imperialism. ==Destinations== {{Mapframe|46|16|zoom=5|layer=W|height=500|width=500}} ===Austria=== * {{listing | name=[[Vienna]] | alt=Wien; Bécs | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.208 | long=16.373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The primary capital. Big parts of its architecture and urban design date from an era when it was supposed it would "soon" become a major imperial capital of four million or more inhabitants }} * {{listing | name=[[Graz]] | lat=47.0667 | long=15.4333 | content=Capital of Inner Austria, with an [[old town]] recognized by the UNESCO. The famous Schlossberg fortress repelled many Ottoman attacks. }} * {{listing | name=[[Salzburg]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.8 | long=13.05 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Former capital of an archbishopric that was a separate state within the Holy Roman Empire and was only annexed by Austria in 1805. Hence, Salzburg's most famous son, Mozart, was considered a foreigner when he came to Vienna. }} * {{listing | name=[[Melk]] | lat=48.2282 | long=15.3306 | content=Enormous Baroque abbey looking over the picturesque Danube valley of [[Wachau]]. An exemplary symbol of Counter-Reformation and absolutistic pageantry. }} * {{listing | name=[[Neusiedl Lake]] | alt=Fertő | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.833 | long=16.75 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Located on the Austro-Hungarian border in the multiethnic [[Burgenland]] region (German-speaking Austrians, Hungarians, Croatians), the cultural landscape around the lake is a UNESCO World Heritage site. }} ===Hungary=== * {{listing | name=[[Budapest]] | lat=47.4908 | long=19.081 | content=The capital of the Hungarian half of the empire. It boomed massively during the late-19th century, resulting in splendid boulevards lined with representative Habsburg-style buildings, and one of the first subway lines in the world. }} * {{listing | name=[[Győr]] | alt=Raab | lat=47.6882 | long=17.6344 | content=Former "royal free city" of the Kingdom of Hungary, traditional trade center with Baroque old town. Since the transformation of 1990 it is once again an economic boomtown in the centre of the triangle Vienna–Bratislava–Budapest. }} * {{listing | name=[[Pécs]] | alt=Fünfkirchen; Five Churches | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.0764 | long=18.228 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Hungary's fifth largest city has a strongly multicultural heritage. The cultural centre of Hungary's Germans and Romani hosts associations and cultural institutions of nine ethnic minority groups. }} * {{listing | name=[[Sopron]] | alt=Ödenburg | lat=47.6817 | long=16.5917 | content=Beautiful old town with medieval and Baroque buildings. It belonged to the Hungarian half of the empire even though the majority population was German-speaking. }} * {{listing | name=[[Szeged]] | alt=Segedin | lat=46.2539 | long=20.149 | content=Temporary capital of Hungary during the 1848/49 revolution; now located near the Hungarian–Romanian–Serbian border triangle. Famous for paprika and salami. }} ===Bosnia and Herzegovina=== * {{listing | name=[[Sarajevo]] | alt=Sarajewo; Szarajevó | lat=43.85136 | long=18.38867 | content=The city where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated, marking the beginning of the end for the Empire. }} ===Croatia=== [[File:Pabellón del Arte, Zagreb, Croacia, 2014-04-20, DD 05.JPG|thumb|Art Pavillion, Zagreb]] * {{listing | name=[[Zagreb]] | alt=Agram; Zágráb | lat=45.8167 | long=15.9833 | content=Capital of Croatia, which was an autonomous kingdom within the Empire. }} * {{listing | name=[[Rijeka]] | alt=Fiume; St. Veit am Flaum | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.3278 | long=14.4445 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Mediterranean seaport that belonged to Hungary but had a multiethnic population of Italians, Croats, Slovenes, Hungarians and Germans. After the dissolution of Austro-Hungary, it was subject of the "Fiume Question", leading to the creation of a short-lived independent free state. }} * {{listing | name=[[Dubrovnik]] | alt=Ragusa | url= | email= | address= | lat=42.6407 | long=18.109 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The formerly autonomous Republic of Ragusa was awarded to Austria at the Congress of Vienna in 1815. The area around the harbour city on the Adriatic subsequently formed the southernmost tip of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. }} ===Czech Republic=== [[File:Karlovy Vary pohled od stezky Jeana de Carro (4).jpg|thumb|Karlovy Vary in the West Bohemian Spa Triangle]] * {{listing | name=[[Prague]] | alt=Prag; Praha | lat=50.0664 | long=14.373 | content=Capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia that was the Habsburg rulers' main residence from 1583 to 1611. }} * {{listing | name=[[Brno]] | alt=Brünn | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.2 | long=16.6167 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Historic capital of the Moravia region and second-biggest city of the Czech Republic. It grew significantly during the 18th and 19th century which can be seen from its typical Habsburg-style architecture. }} * {{listing | name=[[Český Krumlov]] | alt=Böhmisch Krumau | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.8111 | long=14.3152 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=One of the most beautiful old towns in Bohemia with rich Baroque architecture and an impressive castle. Until 1945, most of the population was German-speaking. }} * {{listing | name=West Bohemian Spa Triangle | alt=Westböhmisches Bäderdreieck | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.2305 | long=12.8725 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=[[Karlovy Vary]] (Carlsbad), [[Františkovy Lázně]] (Franzensbad) and [[Mariánské Lázně]] (Marienbad) – the Austro-Hungarian aristocracy's favorite places to relax and recover. }} * {{listing | name=[[Slavkov u Brna]] | alt=Austerlitz | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.153 | long=16.8786 | directions=20 km east of [[Brno]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-19 | content=Site of the Battle of Austerlitz of 1805, also known as the Battle of the Three Emperors, Austria's decisive defeat in the [[Napoleonic Wars]]. }} * {{listing | name=[[Lednice–Valtice Cultural Landscape]] | alt=Lednicko-valtický areál; Kulturlandschaft Eisgrub–Feldsberg | lat=48.781 | long=16.786 | content=Vast landscape park with several palaces and stately homes, created under the Dukes of Liechtenstein during the 17th to 19th centuries. UNESCO World Heritage site. }} * {{see | name=Site of the Battle of Königgrätz | address=Sadová |directions=15 km northwest of [[Hradec Králové]] | lat=50.2972 | long=15.7403 | wikidata= | content=Decisive Prussian victory over Austria in the German Fraternal War (1866). It marked the exclusion of Austria from Germany and led to the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867, the rift within the lute of Austrian great power status. }} ===Italy=== [[File:Ayuntamiento, Trieste, Italia, 2017-04-15, DD 10.jpg|thumb|Piazza Unità d’Italia (formerly Franz Joseph Square), Trieste]] * {{listing | name=[[South Tyrol]] | alt=Südtirol; Alto Adige | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.5 | long=11.33 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | content=A predominantly German-speaking region that was separated from Austrian Tyrol after World War I. }} * {{listing | name=[[Trieste]] | alt=Triest; Trst | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.6333 | long=13.8000 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The empire's major port and naval base. Europe's three main cultural and linguistic regions meet here: Romance, Germanic, and Slavic. }} * {{listing | name=[[Milan]] | alt=Mailand; Milano | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.4625 | long=9.1864 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=The Northern Italian city was under Austrian rule from 1704 until the Italian ''Risorgimento'' 1859. During that period, the Teatro alla Scala was built and Verdi's opera ''Nabucco'' debuted. }} * {{listing | name=[[Venice]] | alt=Venedig; Venezia | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.4386111 | long=12.3266 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Once the seat of the mighty Venetian Republic and the cradle of the [[Medieval and Renaissance Italy|Renaissance]], Venice was only briefly part of Austria-Hungary, and some Habsburg obelisks and monuments in ''Venedig'' remain. }} ===Poland=== * {{listing | name=[[Kraków]] |alt=Cracow; Krakau | lat=50.06185 | long=19.93686 | content=The erstwhile royal capital of Poland was a Free City under shared Austrian, Prussian and Russian protectorate until it was annexed by Austria in 1846. In the following decades it served as the cultural centre of the Empire's Polish possessions, until Polish sovereignty was restored in 1918. Representative architecture from the late-19th and early-20th century along the main boulevards are reminiscent of Vienna or Budapest. }} * {{listing | name=[[Wrocław]] |alt=Breslau | lat=51.1098 | long=17.0327 | content=The capital of Silesia belonged to the Bohemian crown, and therefore the Habsburg Empire, until [[Prussia]] won the First Silesian War in 1742. Nevertheless many Renaissance and Baroque buildings remain from the Austrian era. With its cosmopolitan lifestyle, theatres and numerous cafés, the city still has a certain Viennese charm. }} ===Romania=== [[File:Universitatea Politehnica Timisoara - Rectorat.jpg|thumb|Timișoara Polytechnic]] * {{listing | name=[[Alba Iulia]] | alt=Gyulafehérvár, Karlsburg | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.0764 | long=23.5728 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Former capital of [[Transylvania]]. Within a large, well-preserved 18th-century citadel, its old town features a number of Habsburg-era Baroque buildings. }} * {{listing | name=[[Cluj-Napoca]] | alt=Kolozsvár, Klausenburg | lat=46.7706 | long=23.5905 | content=Unofficial capital of Transylvania and biggest city in the formerly Austro-Hungarian part of Romania. Many buildings in the Hungarian Art Nouveau (Secession) style, two national theatres and two opera houses (one each for Romanian- and Hungarian-speakers), as well as trilingual signage of public buildings bear evidence of this heritage. }} * {{listing | name=[[Timișoara]] | alt=Temesvár, Temeschwar | lat=45.7561 | long=21.2294 | content=Historical capital of the [[Banat]] region which has been called a "little Vienna" for its rich Habsburg-era architecture and lifestyle }} * {{listing | name=[[Târgu Mureș]] | alt=Marosvásárhely, Neumarkt am Mieresch | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.55 | long=24.5667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Capital of [[Szeklerland]], an ethnic Hungarian-majority region in central Romania. City centre with Hungarian Secession (Art Nouveau) styled buildings from the early-1900s. }} ===Serbia=== * {{listing | name=[[Novi Sad]] | alt=Neoplanta; Neusatz; Újvidék | lat=45.255 | long=19.8447 | content=Capital of the formerly Austro-Hungarian [[Vojvodina]], now part of Serbia. }} ===Slovakia=== [[File:Slowakisches Nationaltheater - Altes Gebäude (Bratislava).jpg|thumb|Slovak National Theatre, Bratislava]] * {{listing | name=[[Bratislava]] | alt=Pressburg; Pozsony | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.143889 | long=17.109722 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Capital of the Hungarian Kingdom, until Buda(pest) took this role in 1783, Bratislava remained the seat of its parliament until 1848. Before World War I, most inhabitants spoke German or Hungarian, while less than 20% were Slovaks. }} * {{listing | name=[[Košice]] | alt=Kaschau; Kassa | lat=48.7203 | long=21.2581 | content=De-facto capital of Eastern Slovakia, beautiful old town with heritage buildings from Gothic to Art Nouveau. European Capital of Culture of 2013. }} * {{listing | name=[[Spiš]] | alt=Zips; Szepes | lat=49.013 | long=20.678 | content=This region at the foot of the Tatras used to be a predominantly German-speaking enclave within the Kingdom of Hungary, thus another piece of the multiethnic patchwork that formed the Danube monarchy. The Renaissance town of [[Levoča]] and the medieval castle of [[Spišské Podhradie|Spišsky hrad]] are on the Unesco World Heritage list. }} ===Slovenia=== *{{listing | name=[[Ljubljana]] | alt=Laibach | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.055556 | long=14.508333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The capital of Slovenia, with many beautiful Habsburg-era buildings. |wikidata=|lastedit=2019-07-03}} * {{listing | name=[[Maribor]] |alt=Marburg an der Drau | lat=46.5575 | long=15.6455 | content=Former capital of Lower Styria, now eastern Slovenia, it was a predominantly German-speaking city. Beautiful old town with medieval, Renaissance and Baroque structures. }} ===Switzerland=== * {{see | name=Habsburg | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.4627 | long=8.181 | directions=4 km southwest of [[Brugg]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2019-07-03| content=Ancestral castle of the Habsburg dynasty, in Switzerland. }} ===Ukraine=== [[File:Lviv.Theatre.of.Opera.and.Ballet.jpg|thumb|Lviv opera house]] *{{listing | name=[[Lviv]] | alt=Lemberg | lat=49.8500 | long=24.0167 | content=The capital of the Kingdom of Galicia and Lodomeria, and the Empire's largest city in present-day Ukraine. Today, it remains a bastion of Catholicism in majority Eastern Orthodox Ukraine. }} * {{listing | name=[[Chernivtsi]] | alt=Czernowitz | lat=48.2922 | long=25.9353 | content=The capital and university city of the formerly Austro-Hungarian region [[Bukovina]], classic example of a strongly multi-ethnic region. }} * {{listing | name=[[Uzhhorod]] | alt=Ungvár | lat=48.6239 | long=22.295 | content=Capital of Carpatho-Ukraine that once belonged to the Hungarian half of the empire. Uzhhorod was a stronghold of the anti-Habsburg rebels during Rákóczi's War of Independence (1703–1711). Old town with Baroque Greek Catholic cathedral and former synagogue. }} ===China=== [[File:The villa of Yuan Shikai in Tianjin.jpg|thumb|Former residence of Yuan Shih-kai, the second President of the Republic of China, in the former Austro-Hungarian concession in Tianjin]] * {{listing | name=[[Tianjin]]| alt=Tientsin | lat=39.1336 | long=117.2054 | content=The main port city serving the Chinese capital [[Beijing]] today, it was home to numerous foreign concessions in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Austria-Hungary was part of the Eight-Nation Alliance that suppressed the Qing Dynasty-backed Boxer Rebellion in 1901, resulting in it obtaining a concession in Tianjin from 1901-1917. Today, the former Austro-Hungarian concession is still home to numerous colonial buildings that were built in an Austrian architectural style. }} ==Itineraries== * [[Orient Express]], a legendary rail line between Paris and Istanbul, with much of its distance within Austria-Hungary * The [[Danube]] flows through many of the most important cities of the former Empire * [[EuroVelo cycling routes]] EV4 (Prague–Brno–Kraków–Lviv), EV6 ([[Danube Cycleway]]: Vienna–Bratislava–Budapest–Belgrade), EV7 (Prague–Linz–Salzburg–Bolzano), EV9 (Wrocław–Brno–Vienna–Ljubljana–Trieste), EV11 (Kraków–Košice–Szeged), EV13 ([[Iron Curtain Trail]]) * The [https://ciro-trail.com/en/ Ćiro Trail]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is a 157-km rail trail for [[cycling]] in what was the southern reaches of the empire between [[Mostar]] and [[Dubrovnik]]. It follows the tracks of a dismantled Austro-Hungarian narrow gauge railway, and crosses several 19th-century tunnels and bridges. ==See also== * [[British Empire]] * [[Danish Empire]] * [[Dutch Empire]] * [[French Colonial Empire]] * [[German Empire]] * [[Italian Empire]] * [[Japanese colonial empire]] * [[Portuguese Empire]] * [[Russian Empire]] * [[Spanish Empire]] * [[Swedish Empire]] {{PartOfTopic|European history|Central Europe}} {{usabletopic}} m5zmzzd5bp6h669t814hs6d47de9zkz 5289028 5288905 2026-06-07T09:18:21Z ~2026-33480-78 2419483 Unexplained revert. This version lacks vital context. See the Wikipedia article for reference. 5289028 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Austria Hungary banner.jpg|caption=Imperial coat-of-arms on a barracks in Prague}} {{seealso|European history}} [[File:Imperial Coat of Arms of the Empire of Austria.svg|170px|thumb|right]] The '''[[Austria|Austro]]-[[Hungary|Hungarian]] Empire''', '''Austro-Hungarian Monarchy''' or '''Austria-Hungary''' (German: ''Österreichisch-Ungarische Monarchie'', Hungarian: ''Osztrák–Magyar Monarchia'') was a constitutional dual monarchy that existed from 1867 to 1918. It came with the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867, following a series of Hungarian wars of independence against Habsburg (Austrian) rule, and constituted the final phase of the '''Habsburg Empire'''. The Habsburg Empire dominated [[Central Europe]] and the northern [[Balkans]] from the end of the Middle Ages until its collapse at the end of [[World War I]]. At the time of its greatest extent, in the mid-19th century, it spanned about a thousand miles (1600 km) from [[Pavia]] in Northern Italy to [[Ternopil]] in Western Ukraine. The empire was ruled by the House of Habsburg, arguably Europe's mightiest dynasty. All countries within the Austro-Hungarian realm are republics today, very few people with memories from the empire are alive, and very few heirs to the Habsburg family are left; still, many palaces and artefacts have survived to this day. And even though the Cold War has severed many ties, feelings of kinship and cooperation still and once more exist between the former parts of the empire. During the 19th century, the empire was often seen as horrendously "backward" and in an era of rising nationalism it was dubbed "prison of nations". However, the "Austrian" half of the empire in particular granted remarkable linguistic and cultural rights for minorities and in the 21st century, the attempt at peaceful multi-ethnic coexistence – however flawed it was – is often retrospectively seen as something lost in the catastrophic [[World War I]], rather than a "backwardness" to be replaced by ethnically cleansed nation states. == Regions == [[File:Austria-Hungary map.svg|thumb|366x366px|A map of Austro-Hungarian provinces in 1918.]] '''Empire of Austria (Cisleithania)''': 1. [[Bohemia]] 2. [[Bukovina]] 3. [[Carinthia]] 4. Carniola (see [[Slovenia]]) 5. [[Dalmatia]] (including the [[Bay of Kotor]]) 6. Galicia (see [[Małopolskie]], [[Podkarpackie]] and [[Western Ukraine]]) 7. Austrian Littoral (see [[Istria]], [[Gorizia]]-[[Gradisca d'Isonzo|Gradisca]], and [[Trieste]]) 8. [[Lower Austria]] 9. Moravia (see [[North Moravia and Silesia]] and [[South Moravia]]) 10. [[Salzburg]] 11. Silesia (see [[North Moravia and Silesia]]) 12. [[Styria]] (including [[Eastern Slovenia]]) 13. [[Tyrol]] (including [[South Tyrol]]) 14. [[Upper Austria]] 15. [[Vorarlberg]] '''Kingdom of Hungary (Transleithania)''': 16. [[Hungary]] including [[Slovakia]], [[Burgenland]], [[Transylvania]], [[Crișana]], [[Maramureș]], [[Banat]] and [[Vojvodina]] 17. [[Central Croatia|Croatia]]-[[Slavonia]] * [[Rijeka|Fiume]] (un-numbered) '''Austro-Hungarian Condominium''': 18. [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]] Older provinces, lost before the Great War * [[Lombardy]]-[[Veneto|Venetia]] Overseas possessions: * [[Tianjin]] (part) ==Understand== [[File:Wien - Neue Hofburg.JPG|thumb|Vienna's Hofburg–Austro-Hungary's traditional centre of power]] The Early Middle Ages saw the rise of monarchies and city-states in Central Europe, which came to be united in the [[Frankish Empire]]. The empire was divided in the 10th century, with most of Germanic Europe being split in a complex patchwork of city-states. From AD&nbsp;962, many of them were united in a loose confederation known as the [[Holy Roman Empire]], with the claim to succeed the ancient [[Roman Empire]]. The German word for Emperor, ''Kaiser'', as well as the Russian equivalent ''czar'', derives from the name "Caesar", that was pronounced rather similarly to the modern German word "Kaiser" in classical Latin. Over the centuries, the Holy Roman Empire lost power to local rulers, and the Emperor became an electoral position of mostly sentimental value. Meanwhile, the East Roman Empire survived as the Byzantine Empire, ruled from Constantinople. As the city was lost to the [[Ottoman Empire]] who changed the capital's name to [[Istanbul]], both the Ottomans themselves and the [[Russian Empire]] claimed succession from Rome. The Ottomans and Russia came to be Austria's main rivals, though occasionally their allies. [[File:Melk - Stift (2).JPG|thumb|[[Melk]] Abbey—a splendid symbol of Austrian Catholicism and Counter-Reformation]] The house of Habsburg, whose ancestral seat is in the Swiss canton of [[Aargau]], ascended the throne of Austria in 1282. From 1438 to 1806 the dynasty almost continually held the titles of German king and Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. From 1516 to 1700, the Habsburgs also controlled the vast [[Spain|Spanish Empire]]. Ferdinand I of Austria was elected King of [[Bohemia]] (now in the [[Czech Republic]]) in 1526 and annexed [[Hungary]] in the same year, thereby also acquiring [[Croatia]] and [[Slovakia]]. [[File:Budapest Opera House interior.jpg|thumb|Budapest Opera house]] While the [[Protestant Reformation]] swept northern Europe, Austria remained Catholic. In the early 17th century, Protestant states revolted against the Holy Roman Empire. The conflict evolved to the [[Thirty Years' War]], in which the Holy Roman Emperor lost all significant power outside Austria and Bohemia. The multiethnic Habsburg Monarchy, lying partly within and partly outside the Empire, became a great power in its own right, and a destination on the [[Grand Tour]]. Vienna became a centre for [[European classical music]] and other arts, boasting composers such as Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert. Following the 1789 French Revolution, the [[Kingdom of France]] became Austria's main rival in the French Revolutionary Wars, and later the [[Napoleonic Wars]]. Napoleon Bonaparte became Emperor of the French in May 1804 to usurp the Imperial glory. He planned to conquer more of Europe, and thereby chances to be elected as Holy Roman Emperor. Francis II styled himself Emperor of Austria two months later, to secure his title. In 1805, Napoleon defeated Austria, and forced them to cede much territory. Francis formally dissolved the Holy Roman Empire in 1806, to avoid losing the crown to Napoleon. Austria was weakened, and defeated by Napoleon again in 1812. As much of Napoleon's army perished in a campaign against the [[Russian Empire]], Austria joined a coalition that eventually defeated the Napoleonic Empire, and the 1815 Congress of Vienna restored the Austrian Empire as one of Europe's great powers. [[File:HUN-2015-Budapest-Hungarian Parliament (Budapest) 2015-01.jpg|thumb|Parliament building in Budapest, a prime example for showy late-19th century ''k. u. k.'' architecture]] [[Prussia]] led an alliance that defeated Austria in the 1866 Austro-Prussian war, and became the core state of the [[German Empire]] in 1871, with an emperor of their own. Austria-Hungary was no longer the dominant power in Central Europe. However, the 1870s ''Gründerzeit'' ("founders' period") brought a great economic boom as well as a long-lasting construction boom and the emergence of a highly ornamental, eclectic-historicist architectural style that is considered typical for the Habsburg lands. The most representative examples of this period are along the Vienna Ring Road, but buildings of a similar style can be found all over the former Empire. In contrast to most other European empires, Austria-Hungary had no persistent colonies overseas. In 1778, the Empire founded settlements on the [[Nicobar Islands]], and on [[Maputo|Maputo Bay]] in [[Mozambique]]. Both were abandoned within a few years. After suppressing the [[Imperial China|Qing Dynasty]]-backed Boxer Rebellion as part of the Eight-Nation Alliance in 1901, Austria-Hungary had a concession zone in [[Tianjin]] from 1901 to 1917. In the 19th century, particularly in the long reign of emperor Franz Joseph (1848-1916), nationalism swept Europe, and many ethnic groups requested independence, or at least more autonomy. The Kingdom of Hungary earned more recognition in the Compromise of 1867, styling the empire as Austria-Hungary. While other European countries were formed or reformed according to nationalist and democratic ideas, the empire was still based on divine right, feudalism, and royal marriages. After 1867, many institutions of the Empire were styled "imperial and royal", referring to the two crowns of Austria and Hungary, ''kaiserlich und königlich'' in German. This was usually abbreviated to "k. u. k." in Austria and "k. k." in Hungary (the butt of many jokes in military and diplomatic circles) and led to the country's nicknames "k. u. k Monarchie" or "Kakanien". Discontent among the Slavic peoples was supported by the [[Russian Empire]], and led up to the 1914 assassination of Franz Joseph's heir Archduke Franz Ferdinand (married to a Czech countess, he supported Slavic rights within the empire, if only to knock down the Magyars a peg) in [[Sarajevo]], which became the igniting spark of [[World War I]]; at its time known as "The Great War". The war and the subsequent political revolts led to the fall of Austria-Hungary, as well as the Russian, German and Ottoman empires. The empire was a forerunner in science and technology. Vienna and Prague were connected by a telegraph line as early as 1847. The ''Telefon Hírmondó'' was a broadcast service in Budapest founded in 1893, the first and most successful of its kind. Budapest [[Istanbul/Galata#Get in|arguably]] has the world's second oldest underground railway. The [[Orient Express]] was a legendary rail line, with much of its length through Austria-Hungary. Other than [[Austria]] and [[Hungary]], the empire's territory is today divided between [[Italy]], [[Slovenia]], [[Croatia]], [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]], [[Serbia]], [[Romania]], [[Ukraine]], [[Slovakia]], the [[Czech Republic]] and [[Poland]]. ==Get around== The Austro-Hungarian Empire was tied together by railroads and many of them survived the Cold War and the general neglect of railway infrastructure in the twentieth century or have been restored in recent times. In addition to that, there was an effort even through the years of European division to ensure a state of good repair for some roads linking Germany and other destination countries for work migrants with their former homelands to the South and East. As the Iron Curtain opened, traffic flows changed once more and the Austrian Railway, ÖBB, is slowly but surely acquiring an amount of international connections out of proportion with the size of the country, largely focused in the "k.u.k. lands" (''kaiserlich und königlich'', i.e. the former Austria-Hungary), Germany and Switzerland. ==Talk== [[File:AHK 2 1914 obverse.jpg|thumb|Multilingual banknote]] [[German phrasebook|German]] used to be the lingua franca of the empire and Central Europe in general. This ended after [[World War II in Europe|World War II]], as millions of German-speakers were expelled from the [[Soviet Union]], Poland, Czechoslovakia and several other nations, to present-day Germany and Austria. Still, the empire was multi-ethnic, with recognition of local languages—its krone banknotes bore text in no less than eight languages in addition to German and Hungarian. During the 19th century the Hungarian half of the Empire had an even more aggressive language policy marginalizing linguistic minorities and strongly Magyarizing many places, the effects of which can be seen to this day. In addition, the Austro-Hungarian Empire was, for a time, a major patron of operas in Italian as well as German, and many of the upper class German-speaking subjects of the empire also understood some Italian and French. German still plays some role as a second or third language in the area, but oftentimes it has been relegated to a secondary position behind English or Russian, not least because the German-language states want to avoid the appearance of cultural imperialism. ==Destinations== {{Mapframe|46|16|zoom=5|layer=W|height=500|width=500}} ===Austria=== * {{listing | name=[[Vienna]] | alt=Wien; Bécs | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.208 | long=16.373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The primary capital. Big parts of its architecture and urban design date from an era when it was supposed it would "soon" become a major imperial capital of four million or more inhabitants }} * {{listing | name=[[Graz]] | lat=47.0667 | long=15.4333 | content=Capital of Inner Austria, with an [[old town]] recognized by the UNESCO. The famous Schlossberg fortress repelled many Ottoman attacks. }} * {{listing | name=[[Salzburg]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.8 | long=13.05 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Former capital of an archbishopric that was a separate state within the Holy Roman Empire and was only annexed by Austria in 1805. Hence, Salzburg's most famous son, Mozart, was considered a foreigner when he came to Vienna. }} * {{listing | name=[[Melk]] | lat=48.2282 | long=15.3306 | content=Enormous Baroque abbey looking over the picturesque Danube valley of [[Wachau]]. An exemplary symbol of Counter-Reformation and absolutistic pageantry. }} * {{listing | name=[[Neusiedl Lake]] | alt=Fertő | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.833 | long=16.75 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Located on the Austro-Hungarian border in the multiethnic [[Burgenland]] region (German-speaking Austrians, Hungarians, Croatians), the cultural landscape around the lake is a UNESCO World Heritage site. }} ===Hungary=== * {{listing | name=[[Budapest]] | lat=47.4908 | long=19.081 | content=The capital of the Hungarian half of the empire. It boomed massively during the late-19th century, resulting in splendid boulevards lined with representative Habsburg-style buildings, and one of the first subway lines in the world. }} * {{listing | name=[[Győr]] | alt=Raab | lat=47.6882 | long=17.6344 | content=Former "royal free city" of the Kingdom of Hungary, traditional trade center with Baroque old town. Since the transformation of 1990 it is once again an economic boomtown in the centre of the triangle Vienna–Bratislava–Budapest. }} * {{listing | name=[[Pécs]] | alt=Fünfkirchen; Five Churches | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.0764 | long=18.228 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Hungary's fifth largest city has a strongly multicultural heritage. The cultural centre of Hungary's Germans and Romani hosts associations and cultural institutions of nine ethnic minority groups. }} * {{listing | name=[[Sopron]] | alt=Ödenburg | lat=47.6817 | long=16.5917 | content=Beautiful old town with medieval and Baroque buildings. It belonged to the Hungarian half of the empire even though the majority population was German-speaking. }} * {{listing | name=[[Szeged]] | alt=Segedin | lat=46.2539 | long=20.149 | content=Temporary capital of Hungary during the 1848/49 revolution; now located near the Hungarian–Romanian–Serbian border triangle. Famous for paprika and salami. }} ===Bosnia and Herzegovina=== * {{listing | name=[[Sarajevo]] | alt=Sarajewo; Szarajevó | lat=43.85136 | long=18.38867 | content=The city where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated, marking the beginning of the end for the Empire. }} ===Croatia=== [[File:Pabellón del Arte, Zagreb, Croacia, 2014-04-20, DD 05.JPG|thumb|Art Pavillion, Zagreb]] * {{listing | name=[[Zagreb]] | alt=Agram; Zágráb | lat=45.8167 | long=15.9833 | content=Capital of Croatia, which was an autonomous kingdom within the Empire. }} * {{listing | name=[[Rijeka]] | alt=Fiume; St. Veit am Flaum | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.3278 | long=14.4445 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Mediterranean seaport that belonged to Hungary but had a multiethnic population of Italians, Croats, Slovenes, Hungarians and Germans. After the dissolution of Austro-Hungary, it was subject of the "Fiume Question", leading to the creation of a short-lived independent free state. }} * {{listing | name=[[Dubrovnik]] | alt=Ragusa | url= | email= | address= | lat=42.6407 | long=18.109 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The formerly autonomous Republic of Ragusa was awarded to Austria at the Congress of Vienna in 1815. The area around the harbour city on the Adriatic subsequently formed the southernmost tip of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. }} ===Czech Republic=== [[File:Karlovy Vary pohled od stezky Jeana de Carro (4).jpg|thumb|Karlovy Vary in the West Bohemian Spa Triangle]] * {{listing | name=[[Prague]] | alt=Prag; Praha | lat=50.0664 | long=14.373 | content=Capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia that was the Habsburg rulers' main residence from 1583 to 1611. }} * {{listing | name=[[Brno]] | alt=Brünn | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.2 | long=16.6167 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Historic capital of the Moravia region and second-biggest city of the Czech Republic. It grew significantly during the 18th and 19th century which can be seen from its typical Habsburg-style architecture. }} * {{listing | name=[[Český Krumlov]] | alt=Böhmisch Krumau | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.8111 | long=14.3152 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=One of the most beautiful old towns in Bohemia with rich Baroque architecture and an impressive castle. Until 1945, most of the population was German-speaking. }} * {{listing | name=West Bohemian Spa Triangle | alt=Westböhmisches Bäderdreieck | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.2305 | long=12.8725 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=[[Karlovy Vary]] (Carlsbad), [[Františkovy Lázně]] (Franzensbad) and [[Mariánské Lázně]] (Marienbad) – the Austro-Hungarian aristocracy's favorite places to relax and recover. }} * {{listing | name=[[Slavkov u Brna]] | alt=Austerlitz | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.153 | long=16.8786 | directions=20 km east of [[Brno]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-19 | content=Site of the Battle of Austerlitz of 1805, also known as the Battle of the Three Emperors, Austria's decisive defeat in the [[Napoleonic Wars]]. }} * {{listing | name=[[Lednice–Valtice Cultural Landscape]] | alt=Lednicko-valtický areál; Kulturlandschaft Eisgrub–Feldsberg | lat=48.781 | long=16.786 | content=Vast landscape park with several palaces and stately homes, created under the Dukes of Liechtenstein during the 17th to 19th centuries. UNESCO World Heritage site. }} * {{see | name=Site of the Battle of Königgrätz | address=Sadová |directions=15 km northwest of [[Hradec Králové]] | lat=50.2972 | long=15.7403 | wikidata= | content=Decisive Prussian victory over Austria in the German Fraternal War (1866). It marked the exclusion of Austria from Germany and led to the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867, the rift within the lute of Austrian great power status. }} ===Italy=== [[File:Ayuntamiento, Trieste, Italia, 2017-04-15, DD 10.jpg|thumb|Piazza Unità d’Italia (formerly Franz Joseph Square), Trieste]] * {{listing | name=[[South Tyrol]] | alt=Südtirol; Alto Adige | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.5 | long=11.33 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | content=A predominantly German-speaking region that was separated from Austrian Tyrol after World War I. }} * {{listing | name=[[Trieste]] | alt=Triest; Trst | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.6333 | long=13.8000 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The empire's major port and naval base. Europe's three main cultural and linguistic regions meet here: Romance, Germanic, and Slavic. }} * {{listing | name=[[Milan]] | alt=Mailand; Milano | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.4625 | long=9.1864 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=The Northern Italian city was under Austrian rule from 1704 until the Italian ''Risorgimento'' 1859. During that period, the Teatro alla Scala was built and Verdi's opera ''Nabucco'' debuted. }} * {{listing | name=[[Venice]] | alt=Venedig; Venezia | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.4386111 | long=12.3266 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Once the seat of the mighty Venetian Republic and the cradle of the [[Medieval and Renaissance Italy|Renaissance]], Venice was only briefly part of Austria-Hungary, and some Habsburg obelisks and monuments in ''Venedig'' remain. }} ===Poland=== * {{listing | name=[[Kraków]] |alt=Cracow; Krakau | lat=50.06185 | long=19.93686 | content=The erstwhile royal capital of Poland was a Free City under shared Austrian, Prussian and Russian protectorate until it was annexed by Austria in 1846. In the following decades it served as the cultural centre of the Empire's Polish possessions, until Polish sovereignty was restored in 1918. Representative architecture from the late-19th and early-20th century along the main boulevards are reminiscent of Vienna or Budapest. }} * {{listing | name=[[Wrocław]] |alt=Breslau | lat=51.1098 | long=17.0327 | content=The capital of Silesia belonged to the Bohemian crown, and therefore the Habsburg Empire, until [[Prussia]] won the First Silesian War in 1742. Nevertheless many Renaissance and Baroque buildings remain from the Austrian era. With its cosmopolitan lifestyle, theatres and numerous cafés, the city still has a certain Viennese charm. }} ===Romania=== [[File:Universitatea Politehnica Timisoara - Rectorat.jpg|thumb|Timișoara Polytechnic]] * {{listing | name=[[Alba Iulia]] | alt=Gyulafehérvár, Karlsburg | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.0764 | long=23.5728 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Former capital of [[Transylvania]]. Within a large, well-preserved 18th-century citadel, its old town features a number of Habsburg-era Baroque buildings. }} * {{listing | name=[[Cluj-Napoca]] | alt=Kolozsvár, Klausenburg | lat=46.7706 | long=23.5905 | content=Unofficial capital of Transylvania and biggest city in the formerly Austro-Hungarian part of Romania. Many buildings in the Hungarian Art Nouveau (Secession) style, two national theatres and two opera houses (one each for Romanian- and Hungarian-speakers), as well as trilingual signage of public buildings bear evidence of this heritage. }} * {{listing | name=[[Timișoara]] | alt=Temesvár, Temeschwar | lat=45.7561 | long=21.2294 | content=Historical capital of the [[Banat]] region which has been called a "little Vienna" for its rich Habsburg-era architecture and lifestyle }} * {{listing | name=[[Târgu Mureș]] | alt=Marosvásárhely, Neumarkt am Mieresch | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.55 | long=24.5667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Capital of [[Szeklerland]], an ethnic Hungarian-majority region in central Romania. City centre with Hungarian Secession (Art Nouveau) styled buildings from the early-1900s. }} ===Serbia=== * {{listing | name=[[Novi Sad]] | alt=Neoplanta; Neusatz; Újvidék | lat=45.255 | long=19.8447 | content=Capital of the formerly Austro-Hungarian [[Vojvodina]], now part of Serbia. }} ===Slovakia=== [[File:Slowakisches Nationaltheater - Altes Gebäude (Bratislava).jpg|thumb|Slovak National Theatre, Bratislava]] * {{listing | name=[[Bratislava]] | alt=Pressburg; Pozsony | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.143889 | long=17.109722 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Capital of the Hungarian Kingdom, until Buda(pest) took this role in 1783, Bratislava remained the seat of its parliament until 1848. Before World War I, most inhabitants spoke German or Hungarian, while less than 20% were Slovaks. }} * {{listing | name=[[Košice]] | alt=Kaschau; Kassa | lat=48.7203 | long=21.2581 | content=De-facto capital of Eastern Slovakia, beautiful old town with heritage buildings from Gothic to Art Nouveau. European Capital of Culture of 2013. }} * {{listing | name=[[Spiš]] | alt=Zips; Szepes | lat=49.013 | long=20.678 | content=This region at the foot of the Tatras used to be a predominantly German-speaking enclave within the Kingdom of Hungary, thus another piece of the multiethnic patchwork that formed the Danube monarchy. The Renaissance town of [[Levoča]] and the medieval castle of [[Spišské Podhradie|Spišsky hrad]] are on the Unesco World Heritage list. }} ===Slovenia=== *{{listing | name=[[Ljubljana]] | alt=Laibach | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.055556 | long=14.508333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The capital of Slovenia, with many beautiful Habsburg-era buildings. |wikidata=|lastedit=2019-07-03}} * {{listing | name=[[Maribor]] |alt=Marburg an der Drau | lat=46.5575 | long=15.6455 | content=Former capital of Lower Styria, now eastern Slovenia, it was a predominantly German-speaking city. Beautiful old town with medieval, Renaissance and Baroque structures. }} ===Switzerland=== * {{see | name=Habsburg | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.4627 | long=8.181 | directions=4 km southwest of [[Brugg]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2019-07-03| content=Ancestral castle of the Habsburg dynasty, in Switzerland. }} ===Ukraine=== [[File:Lviv.Theatre.of.Opera.and.Ballet.jpg|thumb|Lviv opera house]] *{{listing | name=[[Lviv]] | alt=Lemberg | lat=49.8500 | long=24.0167 | content=The capital of the Kingdom of Galicia and Lodomeria, and the Empire's largest city in present-day Ukraine. Today, it remains a bastion of Catholicism in majority Eastern Orthodox Ukraine. }} * {{listing | name=[[Chernivtsi]] | alt=Czernowitz | lat=48.2922 | long=25.9353 | content=The capital and university city of the formerly Austro-Hungarian region [[Bukovina]], classic example of a strongly multi-ethnic region. }} * {{listing | name=[[Uzhhorod]] | alt=Ungvár | lat=48.6239 | long=22.295 | content=Capital of Carpatho-Ukraine that once belonged to the Hungarian half of the empire. Uzhhorod was a stronghold of the anti-Habsburg rebels during Rákóczi's War of Independence (1703–1711). Old town with Baroque Greek Catholic cathedral and former synagogue. }} ===China=== [[File:The villa of Yuan Shikai in Tianjin.jpg|thumb|Former residence of Yuan Shih-kai, the second President of the Republic of China, in the former Austro-Hungarian concession in Tianjin]] * {{listing | name=[[Tianjin]]| alt=Tientsin | lat=39.1336 | long=117.2054 | content=The main port city serving the Chinese capital [[Beijing]] today, it was home to numerous foreign concessions in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Austria-Hungary was part of the Eight-Nation Alliance that suppressed the Qing Dynasty-backed Boxer Rebellion in 1901, resulting in it obtaining a concession in Tianjin from 1901-1917. Today, the former Austro-Hungarian concession is still home to numerous colonial buildings that were built in an Austrian architectural style. }} ==Itineraries== * [[Orient Express]], a legendary rail line between Paris and Istanbul, with much of its distance within Austria-Hungary * The [[Danube]] flows through many of the most important cities of the former Empire * [[EuroVelo cycling routes]] EV4 (Prague–Brno–Kraków–Lviv), EV6 ([[Danube Cycleway]]: Vienna–Bratislava–Budapest–Belgrade), EV7 (Prague–Linz–Salzburg–Bolzano), EV9 (Wrocław–Brno–Vienna–Ljubljana–Trieste), EV11 (Kraków–Košice–Szeged), EV13 ([[Iron Curtain Trail]]) * The [https://ciro-trail.com/en/ Ćiro Trail]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is a 157-km rail trail for [[cycling]] in what was the southern reaches of the empire between [[Mostar]] and [[Dubrovnik]]. It follows the tracks of a dismantled Austro-Hungarian narrow gauge railway, and crosses several 19th-century tunnels and bridges. ==See also== * [[British Empire]] * [[Danish Empire]] * [[Dutch Empire]] * [[French Colonial Empire]] * [[German Empire]] * [[Italian Empire]] * [[Japanese colonial empire]] * [[Portuguese Empire]] * [[Russian Empire]] * [[Spanish Empire]] * [[Swedish Empire]] {{PartOfTopic|European history|Central Europe}} {{usabletopic}} 041aeq1ejgse6rsfd0ypznkny7i3fcg 5289029 5289028 2026-06-07T09:29:07Z ~2026-33480-78 2419483 Removed broad generalisation. Also, Austria-Hungary was only established in 1867, so it is false to say it was seen as backward throughout the 19th century. 5289029 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Austria Hungary banner.jpg|caption=Imperial coat-of-arms on a barracks in Prague}} {{seealso|European history}} [[File:Imperial Coat of Arms of the Empire of Austria.svg|170px|thumb|right]] The '''[[Austria|Austro]]-[[Hungary|Hungarian]] Empire''', '''Austro-Hungarian Monarchy''' or '''Austria-Hungary''' (German: ''Österreichisch-Ungarische Monarchie'', Hungarian: ''Osztrák–Magyar Monarchia'') was a constitutional dual monarchy that existed from 1867 to 1918. It came with the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867, following a series of Hungarian wars of independence against Habsburg rule, and constituted the final phase of the '''Habsburg Empire'''. The Habsburg Empire, ruled by the House of Habsburg, dominated [[Central Europe]] and the northern [[Balkans]] from the end of the Middle Ages until its collapse at the end of [[World War I]]. At the time of its greatest extent, in the mid-19th century, it spanned about a thousand miles (1600 km) from [[Pavia]] in Northern Italy to [[Ternopil]] in Western Ukraine. All countries within the Austro-Hungarian realm are republics today, very few people with memories from the empire are alive, and very few heirs to the Habsburg family are left; still, many palaces and artefacts have survived to this day. During the late 19th century, the empire was often seen as horrendously "backward" and in an era of rising nationalism it was dubbed "prison of nations". However, the "Austrian" half of the empire in particular granted remarkable linguistic and cultural rights for minorities and in the 21st century, the attempt at peaceful multi-ethnic coexistence – however flawed it was – is often retrospectively seen as something lost in the catastrophic [[World War I]], rather than a "backwardness" to be replaced by ethnically cleansed nation states. == Regions == [[File:Austria-Hungary map.svg|thumb|366x366px|A map of Austro-Hungarian provinces in 1918.]] '''Empire of Austria (Cisleithania)''': 1. [[Bohemia]] 2. [[Bukovina]] 3. [[Carinthia]] 4. Carniola (see [[Slovenia]]) 5. [[Dalmatia]] (including the [[Bay of Kotor]]) 6. Galicia (see [[Małopolskie]], [[Podkarpackie]] and [[Western Ukraine]]) 7. Austrian Littoral (see [[Istria]], [[Gorizia]]-[[Gradisca d'Isonzo|Gradisca]], and [[Trieste]]) 8. [[Lower Austria]] 9. Moravia (see [[North Moravia and Silesia]] and [[South Moravia]]) 10. [[Salzburg]] 11. Silesia (see [[North Moravia and Silesia]]) 12. [[Styria]] (including [[Eastern Slovenia]]) 13. [[Tyrol]] (including [[South Tyrol]]) 14. [[Upper Austria]] 15. [[Vorarlberg]] '''Kingdom of Hungary (Transleithania)''': 16. [[Hungary]] including [[Slovakia]], [[Burgenland]], [[Transylvania]], [[Crișana]], [[Maramureș]], [[Banat]] and [[Vojvodina]] 17. [[Central Croatia|Croatia]]-[[Slavonia]] * [[Rijeka|Fiume]] (un-numbered) '''Austro-Hungarian Condominium''': 18. [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]] Older provinces, lost before the Great War * [[Lombardy]]-[[Veneto|Venetia]] Overseas possessions: * [[Tianjin]] (part) ==Understand== [[File:Wien - Neue Hofburg.JPG|thumb|Vienna's Hofburg–Austro-Hungary's traditional centre of power]] The Early Middle Ages saw the rise of monarchies and city-states in Central Europe, which came to be united in the [[Frankish Empire]]. The empire was divided in the 10th century, with most of Germanic Europe being split in a complex patchwork of city-states. From AD&nbsp;962, many of them were united in a loose confederation known as the [[Holy Roman Empire]], with the claim to succeed the ancient [[Roman Empire]]. The German word for Emperor, ''Kaiser'', as well as the Russian equivalent ''czar'', derives from the name "Caesar", that was pronounced rather similarly to the modern German word "Kaiser" in classical Latin. Over the centuries, the Holy Roman Empire lost power to local rulers, and the Emperor became an electoral position of mostly sentimental value. Meanwhile, the East Roman Empire survived as the Byzantine Empire, ruled from Constantinople. As the city was lost to the [[Ottoman Empire]] who changed the capital's name to [[Istanbul]], both the Ottomans themselves and the [[Russian Empire]] claimed succession from Rome. The Ottomans and Russia came to be Austria's main rivals, though occasionally their allies. [[File:Melk - Stift (2).JPG|thumb|[[Melk]] Abbey—a splendid symbol of Austrian Catholicism and Counter-Reformation]] The house of Habsburg, whose ancestral seat is in the Swiss canton of [[Aargau]], ascended the throne of Austria in 1282. From 1438 to 1806 the dynasty almost continually held the titles of German king and Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. From 1516 to 1700, the Habsburgs also controlled the vast [[Spain|Spanish Empire]]. Ferdinand I of Austria was elected King of [[Bohemia]] (now in the [[Czech Republic]]) in 1526 and annexed [[Hungary]] in the same year, thereby also acquiring [[Croatia]] and [[Slovakia]]. [[File:Budapest Opera House interior.jpg|thumb|Budapest Opera house]] While the [[Protestant Reformation]] swept northern Europe, Austria remained Catholic. In the early 17th century, Protestant states revolted against the Holy Roman Empire. The conflict evolved to the [[Thirty Years' War]], in which the Holy Roman Emperor lost all significant power outside Austria and Bohemia. The multiethnic Habsburg Monarchy, lying partly within and partly outside the Empire, became a great power in its own right, and a destination on the [[Grand Tour]]. Vienna became a centre for [[European classical music]] and other arts, boasting composers such as Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert. Following the 1789 French Revolution, the [[Kingdom of France]] became Austria's main rival in the French Revolutionary Wars, and later the [[Napoleonic Wars]]. Napoleon Bonaparte became Emperor of the French in May 1804 to usurp the Imperial glory. He planned to conquer more of Europe, and thereby chances to be elected as Holy Roman Emperor. Francis II styled himself Emperor of Austria two months later, to secure his title. In 1805, Napoleon defeated Austria, and forced them to cede much territory. Francis formally dissolved the Holy Roman Empire in 1806, to avoid losing the crown to Napoleon. Austria was weakened, and defeated by Napoleon again in 1812. As much of Napoleon's army perished in a campaign against the [[Russian Empire]], Austria joined a coalition that eventually defeated the Napoleonic Empire, and the 1815 Congress of Vienna restored the Austrian Empire as one of Europe's great powers. [[File:HUN-2015-Budapest-Hungarian Parliament (Budapest) 2015-01.jpg|thumb|Parliament building in Budapest, a prime example for showy late-19th century ''k. u. k.'' architecture]] [[Prussia]] led an alliance that defeated Austria in the 1866 Austro-Prussian war, and became the core state of the [[German Empire]] in 1871, with an emperor of their own. Austria-Hungary was no longer the dominant power in Central Europe. However, the 1870s ''Gründerzeit'' ("founders' period") brought a great economic boom as well as a long-lasting construction boom and the emergence of a highly ornamental, eclectic-historicist architectural style that is considered typical for the Habsburg lands. The most representative examples of this period are along the Vienna Ring Road, but buildings of a similar style can be found all over the former Empire. In contrast to most other European empires, Austria-Hungary had no persistent colonies overseas. In 1778, the Empire founded settlements on the [[Nicobar Islands]], and on [[Maputo|Maputo Bay]] in [[Mozambique]]. Both were abandoned within a few years. After suppressing the [[Imperial China|Qing Dynasty]]-backed Boxer Rebellion as part of the Eight-Nation Alliance in 1901, Austria-Hungary had a concession zone in [[Tianjin]] from 1901 to 1917. In the 19th century, particularly in the long reign of emperor Franz Joseph (1848-1916), nationalism swept Europe, and many ethnic groups requested independence, or at least more autonomy. The Kingdom of Hungary earned more recognition in the Compromise of 1867, styling the empire as Austria-Hungary. While other European countries were formed or reformed according to nationalist and democratic ideas, the empire was still based on divine right, feudalism, and royal marriages. After 1867, many institutions of the Empire were styled "imperial and royal", referring to the two crowns of Austria and Hungary, ''kaiserlich und königlich'' in German. This was usually abbreviated to "k. u. k." in Austria and "k. k." in Hungary (the butt of many jokes in military and diplomatic circles) and led to the country's nicknames "k. u. k Monarchie" or "Kakanien". Discontent among the Slavic peoples was supported by the [[Russian Empire]], and led up to the 1914 assassination of Franz Joseph's heir Archduke Franz Ferdinand (married to a Czech countess, he supported Slavic rights within the empire, if only to knock down the Magyars a peg) in [[Sarajevo]], which became the igniting spark of [[World War I]]; at its time known as "The Great War". The war and the subsequent political revolts led to the fall of Austria-Hungary, as well as the Russian, German and Ottoman empires. The empire was a forerunner in science and technology. Vienna and Prague were connected by a telegraph line as early as 1847. The ''Telefon Hírmondó'' was a broadcast service in Budapest founded in 1893, the first and most successful of its kind. Budapest [[Istanbul/Galata#Get in|arguably]] has the world's second oldest underground railway. The [[Orient Express]] was a legendary rail line, with much of its length through Austria-Hungary. Other than [[Austria]] and [[Hungary]], the empire's territory is today divided between [[Italy]], [[Slovenia]], [[Croatia]], [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]], [[Serbia]], [[Romania]], [[Ukraine]], [[Slovakia]], the [[Czech Republic]] and [[Poland]]. ==Get around== The Austro-Hungarian Empire was tied together by railroads and many of them survived the Cold War and the general neglect of railway infrastructure in the twentieth century or have been restored in recent times. In addition to that, there was an effort even through the years of European division to ensure a state of good repair for some roads linking Germany and other destination countries for work migrants with their former homelands to the South and East. As the Iron Curtain opened, traffic flows changed once more and the Austrian Railway, ÖBB, is slowly but surely acquiring an amount of international connections out of proportion with the size of the country, largely focused in the "k.u.k. lands" (''kaiserlich und königlich'', i.e. the former Austria-Hungary), Germany and Switzerland. ==Talk== [[File:AHK 2 1914 obverse.jpg|thumb|Multilingual banknote]] [[German phrasebook|German]] used to be the lingua franca of the empire and Central Europe in general. This ended after [[World War II in Europe|World War II]], as millions of German-speakers were expelled from the [[Soviet Union]], Poland, Czechoslovakia and several other nations, to present-day Germany and Austria. Still, the empire was multi-ethnic, with recognition of local languages—its krone banknotes bore text in no less than eight languages in addition to German and Hungarian. During the 19th century the Hungarian half of the Empire had an even more aggressive language policy marginalizing linguistic minorities and strongly Magyarizing many places, the effects of which can be seen to this day. In addition, the Austro-Hungarian Empire was, for a time, a major patron of operas in Italian as well as German, and many of the upper class German-speaking subjects of the empire also understood some Italian and French. German still plays some role as a second or third language in the area, but oftentimes it has been relegated to a secondary position behind English or Russian, not least because the German-language states want to avoid the appearance of cultural imperialism. ==Destinations== {{Mapframe|46|16|zoom=5|layer=W|height=500|width=500}} ===Austria=== * {{listing | name=[[Vienna]] | alt=Wien; Bécs | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.208 | long=16.373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The primary capital. Big parts of its architecture and urban design date from an era when it was supposed it would "soon" become a major imperial capital of four million or more inhabitants }} * {{listing | name=[[Graz]] | lat=47.0667 | long=15.4333 | content=Capital of Inner Austria, with an [[old town]] recognized by the UNESCO. The famous Schlossberg fortress repelled many Ottoman attacks. }} * {{listing | name=[[Salzburg]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.8 | long=13.05 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Former capital of an archbishopric that was a separate state within the Holy Roman Empire and was only annexed by Austria in 1805. Hence, Salzburg's most famous son, Mozart, was considered a foreigner when he came to Vienna. }} * {{listing | name=[[Melk]] | lat=48.2282 | long=15.3306 | content=Enormous Baroque abbey looking over the picturesque Danube valley of [[Wachau]]. An exemplary symbol of Counter-Reformation and absolutistic pageantry. }} * {{listing | name=[[Neusiedl Lake]] | alt=Fertő | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.833 | long=16.75 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Located on the Austro-Hungarian border in the multiethnic [[Burgenland]] region (German-speaking Austrians, Hungarians, Croatians), the cultural landscape around the lake is a UNESCO World Heritage site. }} ===Hungary=== * {{listing | name=[[Budapest]] | lat=47.4908 | long=19.081 | content=The capital of the Hungarian half of the empire. It boomed massively during the late-19th century, resulting in splendid boulevards lined with representative Habsburg-style buildings, and one of the first subway lines in the world. }} * {{listing | name=[[Győr]] | alt=Raab | lat=47.6882 | long=17.6344 | content=Former "royal free city" of the Kingdom of Hungary, traditional trade center with Baroque old town. Since the transformation of 1990 it is once again an economic boomtown in the centre of the triangle Vienna–Bratislava–Budapest. }} * {{listing | name=[[Pécs]] | alt=Fünfkirchen; Five Churches | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.0764 | long=18.228 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Hungary's fifth largest city has a strongly multicultural heritage. The cultural centre of Hungary's Germans and Romani hosts associations and cultural institutions of nine ethnic minority groups. }} * {{listing | name=[[Sopron]] | alt=Ödenburg | lat=47.6817 | long=16.5917 | content=Beautiful old town with medieval and Baroque buildings. It belonged to the Hungarian half of the empire even though the majority population was German-speaking. }} * {{listing | name=[[Szeged]] | alt=Segedin | lat=46.2539 | long=20.149 | content=Temporary capital of Hungary during the 1848/49 revolution; now located near the Hungarian–Romanian–Serbian border triangle. Famous for paprika and salami. }} ===Bosnia and Herzegovina=== * {{listing | name=[[Sarajevo]] | alt=Sarajewo; Szarajevó | lat=43.85136 | long=18.38867 | content=The city where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated, marking the beginning of the end for the Empire. }} ===Croatia=== [[File:Pabellón del Arte, Zagreb, Croacia, 2014-04-20, DD 05.JPG|thumb|Art Pavillion, Zagreb]] * {{listing | name=[[Zagreb]] | alt=Agram; Zágráb | lat=45.8167 | long=15.9833 | content=Capital of Croatia, which was an autonomous kingdom within the Empire. }} * {{listing | name=[[Rijeka]] | alt=Fiume; St. Veit am Flaum | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.3278 | long=14.4445 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Mediterranean seaport that belonged to Hungary but had a multiethnic population of Italians, Croats, Slovenes, Hungarians and Germans. After the dissolution of Austro-Hungary, it was subject of the "Fiume Question", leading to the creation of a short-lived independent free state. }} * {{listing | name=[[Dubrovnik]] | alt=Ragusa | url= | email= | address= | lat=42.6407 | long=18.109 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The formerly autonomous Republic of Ragusa was awarded to Austria at the Congress of Vienna in 1815. The area around the harbour city on the Adriatic subsequently formed the southernmost tip of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. }} ===Czech Republic=== [[File:Karlovy Vary pohled od stezky Jeana de Carro (4).jpg|thumb|Karlovy Vary in the West Bohemian Spa Triangle]] * {{listing | name=[[Prague]] | alt=Prag; Praha | lat=50.0664 | long=14.373 | content=Capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia that was the Habsburg rulers' main residence from 1583 to 1611. }} * {{listing | name=[[Brno]] | alt=Brünn | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.2 | long=16.6167 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Historic capital of the Moravia region and second-biggest city of the Czech Republic. It grew significantly during the 18th and 19th century which can be seen from its typical Habsburg-style architecture. }} * {{listing | name=[[Český Krumlov]] | alt=Böhmisch Krumau | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.8111 | long=14.3152 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=One of the most beautiful old towns in Bohemia with rich Baroque architecture and an impressive castle. Until 1945, most of the population was German-speaking. }} * {{listing | name=West Bohemian Spa Triangle | alt=Westböhmisches Bäderdreieck | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.2305 | long=12.8725 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=[[Karlovy Vary]] (Carlsbad), [[Františkovy Lázně]] (Franzensbad) and [[Mariánské Lázně]] (Marienbad) – the Austro-Hungarian aristocracy's favorite places to relax and recover. }} * {{listing | name=[[Slavkov u Brna]] | alt=Austerlitz | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.153 | long=16.8786 | directions=20 km east of [[Brno]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-19 | content=Site of the Battle of Austerlitz of 1805, also known as the Battle of the Three Emperors, Austria's decisive defeat in the [[Napoleonic Wars]]. }} * {{listing | name=[[Lednice–Valtice Cultural Landscape]] | alt=Lednicko-valtický areál; Kulturlandschaft Eisgrub–Feldsberg | lat=48.781 | long=16.786 | content=Vast landscape park with several palaces and stately homes, created under the Dukes of Liechtenstein during the 17th to 19th centuries. UNESCO World Heritage site. }} * {{see | name=Site of the Battle of Königgrätz | address=Sadová |directions=15 km northwest of [[Hradec Králové]] | lat=50.2972 | long=15.7403 | wikidata= | content=Decisive Prussian victory over Austria in the German Fraternal War (1866). It marked the exclusion of Austria from Germany and led to the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867, the rift within the lute of Austrian great power status. }} ===Italy=== [[File:Ayuntamiento, Trieste, Italia, 2017-04-15, DD 10.jpg|thumb|Piazza Unità d’Italia (formerly Franz Joseph Square), Trieste]] * {{listing | name=[[South Tyrol]] | alt=Südtirol; Alto Adige | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.5 | long=11.33 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | content=A predominantly German-speaking region that was separated from Austrian Tyrol after World War I. }} * {{listing | name=[[Trieste]] | alt=Triest; Trst | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.6333 | long=13.8000 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The empire's major port and naval base. Europe's three main cultural and linguistic regions meet here: Romance, Germanic, and Slavic. }} * {{listing | name=[[Milan]] | alt=Mailand; Milano | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.4625 | long=9.1864 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=The Northern Italian city was under Austrian rule from 1704 until the Italian ''Risorgimento'' 1859. During that period, the Teatro alla Scala was built and Verdi's opera ''Nabucco'' debuted. }} * {{listing | name=[[Venice]] | alt=Venedig; Venezia | url= | email= | address= | lat=45.4386111 | long=12.3266 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Once the seat of the mighty Venetian Republic and the cradle of the [[Medieval and Renaissance Italy|Renaissance]], Venice was only briefly part of Austria-Hungary, and some Habsburg obelisks and monuments in ''Venedig'' remain. }} ===Poland=== * {{listing | name=[[Kraków]] |alt=Cracow; Krakau | lat=50.06185 | long=19.93686 | content=The erstwhile royal capital of Poland was a Free City under shared Austrian, Prussian and Russian protectorate until it was annexed by Austria in 1846. In the following decades it served as the cultural centre of the Empire's Polish possessions, until Polish sovereignty was restored in 1918. Representative architecture from the late-19th and early-20th century along the main boulevards are reminiscent of Vienna or Budapest. }} * {{listing | name=[[Wrocław]] |alt=Breslau | lat=51.1098 | long=17.0327 | content=The capital of Silesia belonged to the Bohemian crown, and therefore the Habsburg Empire, until [[Prussia]] won the First Silesian War in 1742. Nevertheless many Renaissance and Baroque buildings remain from the Austrian era. With its cosmopolitan lifestyle, theatres and numerous cafés, the city still has a certain Viennese charm. }} ===Romania=== [[File:Universitatea Politehnica Timisoara - Rectorat.jpg|thumb|Timișoara Polytechnic]] * {{listing | name=[[Alba Iulia]] | alt=Gyulafehérvár, Karlsburg | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.0764 | long=23.5728 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Former capital of [[Transylvania]]. Within a large, well-preserved 18th-century citadel, its old town features a number of Habsburg-era Baroque buildings. }} * {{listing | name=[[Cluj-Napoca]] | alt=Kolozsvár, Klausenburg | lat=46.7706 | long=23.5905 | content=Unofficial capital of Transylvania and biggest city in the formerly Austro-Hungarian part of Romania. Many buildings in the Hungarian Art Nouveau (Secession) style, two national theatres and two opera houses (one each for Romanian- and Hungarian-speakers), as well as trilingual signage of public buildings bear evidence of this heritage. }} * {{listing | name=[[Timișoara]] | alt=Temesvár, Temeschwar | lat=45.7561 | long=21.2294 | content=Historical capital of the [[Banat]] region which has been called a "little Vienna" for its rich Habsburg-era architecture and lifestyle }} * {{listing | name=[[Târgu Mureș]] | alt=Marosvásárhely, Neumarkt am Mieresch | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.55 | long=24.5667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-11-12 | content=Capital of [[Szeklerland]], an ethnic Hungarian-majority region in central Romania. City centre with Hungarian Secession (Art Nouveau) styled buildings from the early-1900s. }} ===Serbia=== * {{listing | name=[[Novi Sad]] | alt=Neoplanta; Neusatz; Újvidék | lat=45.255 | long=19.8447 | content=Capital of the formerly Austro-Hungarian [[Vojvodina]], now part of Serbia. }} ===Slovakia=== [[File:Slowakisches Nationaltheater - Altes Gebäude (Bratislava).jpg|thumb|Slovak National Theatre, Bratislava]] * {{listing | name=[[Bratislava]] | alt=Pressburg; Pozsony | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.143889 | long=17.109722 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Capital of the Hungarian Kingdom, until Buda(pest) took this role in 1783, Bratislava remained the seat of its parliament until 1848. Before World War I, most inhabitants spoke German or Hungarian, while less than 20% were Slovaks. }} * {{listing | name=[[Košice]] | alt=Kaschau; Kassa | lat=48.7203 | long=21.2581 | content=De-facto capital of Eastern Slovakia, beautiful old town with heritage buildings from Gothic to Art Nouveau. European Capital of Culture of 2013. }} * {{listing | name=[[Spiš]] | alt=Zips; Szepes | lat=49.013 | long=20.678 | content=This region at the foot of the Tatras used to be a predominantly German-speaking enclave within the Kingdom of Hungary, thus another piece of the multiethnic patchwork that formed the Danube monarchy. The Renaissance town of [[Levoča]] and the medieval castle of [[Spišské Podhradie|Spišsky hrad]] are on the Unesco World Heritage list. }} ===Slovenia=== *{{listing | name=[[Ljubljana]] | alt=Laibach | url= | email= | address= | lat=46.055556 | long=14.508333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The capital of Slovenia, with many beautiful Habsburg-era buildings. |wikidata=|lastedit=2019-07-03}} * {{listing | name=[[Maribor]] |alt=Marburg an der Drau | lat=46.5575 | long=15.6455 | content=Former capital of Lower Styria, now eastern Slovenia, it was a predominantly German-speaking city. Beautiful old town with medieval, Renaissance and Baroque structures. }} ===Switzerland=== * {{see | name=Habsburg | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.4627 | long=8.181 | directions=4 km southwest of [[Brugg]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2019-07-03| content=Ancestral castle of the Habsburg dynasty, in Switzerland. }} ===Ukraine=== [[File:Lviv.Theatre.of.Opera.and.Ballet.jpg|thumb|Lviv opera house]] *{{listing | name=[[Lviv]] | alt=Lemberg | lat=49.8500 | long=24.0167 | content=The capital of the Kingdom of Galicia and Lodomeria, and the Empire's largest city in present-day Ukraine. Today, it remains a bastion of Catholicism in majority Eastern Orthodox Ukraine. }} * {{listing | name=[[Chernivtsi]] | alt=Czernowitz | lat=48.2922 | long=25.9353 | content=The capital and university city of the formerly Austro-Hungarian region [[Bukovina]], classic example of a strongly multi-ethnic region. }} * {{listing | name=[[Uzhhorod]] | alt=Ungvár | lat=48.6239 | long=22.295 | content=Capital of Carpatho-Ukraine that once belonged to the Hungarian half of the empire. Uzhhorod was a stronghold of the anti-Habsburg rebels during Rákóczi's War of Independence (1703–1711). Old town with Baroque Greek Catholic cathedral and former synagogue. }} ===China=== [[File:The villa of Yuan Shikai in Tianjin.jpg|thumb|Former residence of Yuan Shih-kai, the second President of the Republic of China, in the former Austro-Hungarian concession in Tianjin]] * {{listing | name=[[Tianjin]]| alt=Tientsin | lat=39.1336 | long=117.2054 | content=The main port city serving the Chinese capital [[Beijing]] today, it was home to numerous foreign concessions in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Austria-Hungary was part of the Eight-Nation Alliance that suppressed the Qing Dynasty-backed Boxer Rebellion in 1901, resulting in it obtaining a concession in Tianjin from 1901-1917. Today, the former Austro-Hungarian concession is still home to numerous colonial buildings that were built in an Austrian architectural style. }} ==Itineraries== * [[Orient Express]], a legendary rail line between Paris and Istanbul, with much of its distance within Austria-Hungary * The [[Danube]] flows through many of the most important cities of the former Empire * [[EuroVelo cycling routes]] EV4 (Prague–Brno–Kraków–Lviv), EV6 ([[Danube Cycleway]]: Vienna–Bratislava–Budapest–Belgrade), EV7 (Prague–Linz–Salzburg–Bolzano), EV9 (Wrocław–Brno–Vienna–Ljubljana–Trieste), EV11 (Kraków–Košice–Szeged), EV13 ([[Iron Curtain Trail]]) * The [https://ciro-trail.com/en/ Ćiro Trail]{{Dead link|date=April 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is a 157-km rail trail for [[cycling]] in what was the southern reaches of the empire between [[Mostar]] and [[Dubrovnik]]. It follows the tracks of a dismantled Austro-Hungarian narrow gauge railway, and crosses several 19th-century tunnels and bridges. ==See also== * [[British Empire]] * [[Danish Empire]] * [[Dutch Empire]] * [[French Colonial Empire]] * [[German Empire]] * [[Italian Empire]] * [[Japanese colonial empire]] * [[Portuguese Empire]] * [[Russian Empire]] * [[Spanish Empire]] * [[Swedish Empire]] {{PartOfTopic|European history|Central Europe}} {{usabletopic}} k3q76chozcxqtp37gegzdlsuynqcp3p 0 155113 5288872 5288618 2026-06-06T14:34:16Z Yvwv 100394 /* Understand */ 5288872 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Vasco da Gama's arrival at Calicut Banner.jpg|caption=Tapestry depicting Vasco da Gama's arrival in Calicut}} The '''Cape Route''', the '''route around Africa''', the '''Carreira da Índia''' or the '''European-Asian sea route''', used to be among the world's most important routes of commerce. The [[Portuguese Empire|Portuguese explorer]] Vasco da Gama is generally credited as the first to complete it in 1498. ==Understand== Scholars of ancient and medieval Europe disagreed whether the Atlantic and Indian Ocean were connected. According to Herodotus, an expedition sent by Egyptian Pharaoh Necho II and manned by [[Phoenician]]s circumnavigated Africa around 600 BCE. The 15th century expansion of the [[Ottoman Empire]] disrupted commerce along the [[Silk Road]], and encouraged Europeans to find a new route to Asia, in particular for the import of [[spices]]. The [[voyages of Columbus]] aimed for Asia, but instead established European contact with the Americas. Vasco da Gama's discovery of the Cape Route, as well as the Columbian voyages, inspired the [[Magellan-Elcano circumnavigation]]. Most of the [[Portuguese Empire]] was founded along the route, as well as most other European colonies on the continent before the late 19th century scramble for [[Africa]]. Overseas trade made the Mediterranean and the Silk Road less important for Eurasian commerce (leading to a decline of the [[Medieval and Renaissance Italy|Italian city-states]]), and shifted power to western Europe. The '''Clipper Route''' is an extension, to reach [[East Asia]] or [[Oceania]] across the central Indian Ocean, and get back via [[Cabo de Hornos National Park|Cape Horn]], to make use of the strong westerlies in the "roaring forties". The Suez Canal, completed in 1867, created a shortcut between the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean. The Suez route was most useful to steamships (famously described in ''[[Around the World in Eighty Days]]''), and put an end to the Age of Sail. In the 21st century, the Cape Route is still in use by [[sailing yachts]], and by ''Capesize'' ships — the largest vessels, which cannot pass through the Suez Canal. In some conflicts, vessels have been refused passage through the Suez Canal, resorting to the Cape Route instead, including the Russian navy during the Russo-Japanese war, the ''Yanagi'' submarine missions linking Germany and Japan during World War II, British vessels during the Suez crisis, and Israeli vessels when their access to the Straits of Tiran was also cut off by Egypt. ==The route== Leaving Europe at south-west Portugal, south-west Spain or Gibraltar, sailors will hit the Canary current southward along the African coast. They will also catch the north-east trade winds, sooner in late summer, since wind systems move north and south with the seasons. There is no need to keep to the coast past the westerlies, except for visits to West African ports. As the trade wind is reached, it can be followed out on the ocean, possibly calling at islands off the African coast, such as Madeira, Canary Islands and Cape Verde. Between the north-east and the south-east trade winds, there is a belt of calms and unreliable light winds, the doldrums (or in modern speech: the Intertropical Convergence Zone). Without a motor, it can take a week or more to get suitable wind to get past it. The south-east trade wind should be picked up east or south enough not to have to beat up it, i.e. don't go north of the Nordeste of Brazil. You can well stay much more east if winds and seas permit. The objective is to reach the southern westerlies at some suitable spot to head for South Africa. You might want to visit Tristan da Cunha en route. Like the trade winds, the westerlies reach the farthest north in late northern hemisphere summer. The Agulhas Current is a strong current along the south-eastern coast of South Africa. To avoid it, steer well south before again turning east after your visits to the Cape Provinces. Turning north, you hit the Mozambique Current in the Mozambique Channel west of Madagascar. If you timed right, you will then get the south-west monsoon, which takes you to India. A faster option is to sail nearly to Australia by the westerlies and then turn due north, but until the marine chronometer had been developed in the mid-18th century and become standard, it was very difficult to know when to turn, and many ships hit shallows and rocks off West Australia as they didn't turn in time, which is why the ordinary Cape Route continued to be used also eastbound. The return is by the north-east monsoon. Now the Mozambique Current and the Agulhas Current work to your favour, but you may have to beat against the westerlies, especially in southern hemisphere winter. There is a northbound current along the western coast of southern Africa, which you might want to follow sailing by the south-east trade wind. Eventually you will take to the ocean and sail more or less north-west until you reach the doldrums, somewhere before or by West Africa. You might want to go via Saint Helena, Cape Verde and the Azores, from where you get to Europe by the northern westerlies. Remember the Canary Current off West Africa: keep off the coast. If you go too far to the west you would have to beat the north-east trade wind or, to avoid that, go north via the Caribbean and catch the westerlies from there or further north, which is not the Cape Route. {{Mapframe|5|20|zoom=3|layer=M|height=500|width=680}} * {{marker | name=[[Lisbon]], [[Portugal]] | lat=38.7071 | long=-9.1353 }} was the starting point for most Portuguese expeditions * {{marker | name=[[Gibraltar]] | lat=36.138706 | long=-5.347422 }} for arrival through the Mediterranean * {{marker | name=[[Madeira]] | lat=32.6511 | long=-16.9097 }} * {{marker | name=[[Tenerife]], Canary Islands | lat=28.268611 | long=-16.605556 }} * {{marker | name=[[Cape Verde]] | lat=15.916667 | long=-24.083333 }} * {{marker | name=[[Dakar]], [[Senegal]] | lat=14.681 | long=-17.441 }} * {{marker | name=[[Tristan da Cunha]] | lat=-37.117 | long=-12.283 }}: an island about halfway between Cape Town and Buenos Aires, this is the most remote human settlement in the world, but on the route! * {{marker | name=[[Saint Helena (island)]] | lat=-15.9333| long=-5.7167}} * {{marker | name=[[Salvador]], [[Brazil]] | lat=-12.98 | long=-38.49 }}: Prevailing winds and currents on the South Atlantic take ships south of St Helena island westwards across to [[Bahia]]. * {{marker | name=[[Lüderitz]], [[Namibia]] | lat=-26.647777777778| long=15.157777777778 }} * {{marker | name=[[Cape Town]], [[South Africa]] | lat=-33.9333 | long=18.4667 }} * {{marker | name=[[Zanzibar]], [[Tanzania]] | lat=-6.175 | long=39.18 }}: a major port for Arab traders and later also for Europeans * {{marker | name=[[Mombasa]], [[Kenya]] | lat=-4.05 | long=39.666667 }} * {{marker | name=[[Malindi]], Kenya | lat=-3.223611 | long=40.13 | wikidata=Q271411}}: After being turned away from Mombasa, it was here where the explorer Vasco de Gama landed. A pillar stands where he came ashore. Malindi become important as the Indian Ocean trade networks developed; the town was visited by the fleet of [[Voyages of Zheng He|Zheng He]], and became an important port for the Portuguese, but later declined as the European colonisation progressed. * {{marker | name=[[Kozhikode]] (Calicut), [[India]] | lat=11.25 | long=75.77 }}: Long an important port on the [[Maritime Silk Road]]; the fabric calico first reached Europe from here and is named for the town. * {{marker | name=[[Goa]], India | lat=15.498889 | long=73.827778}}: Portugal's first colony in Asia, now a state of India. {{outlineitinerary}} {{PartOfItinerary|Intercontinental itineraries}} lv3ub2re7c3134qt4p7oo3s2mf8uxh9 0 167570 5288858 5286125 2026-06-06T13:37:06Z Globetrotter30 2363356 /* Medieval India */ added sikhism 5288858 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mohenjodaro - view of the stupa mound (cropped).JPG}} [[South Asia]], also known as the Indian subcontinent, is one of the world's cradles of civilisation, with its first civilisations dating back to approximately 3400 BCE. The influences of South Asian kingdoms spread far and wide, leading to the establishment of Indianised kingdoms in [[Southeast Asia]] whose legacies endure to this day. ==Understand== ===Ancient India=== {{Seealso|Indus Valley Civilisation|On the trail of Alexander the Great|Maurya Empire}} The '''[[Indus Valley Civilisation]]''' was the first civilisation to form in what is today India and Pakistan. The Indus Valley had vast trade networks. Merchants traded with Central Asia and the Iranian plateau, Southern India, [[Mesopotamia]], [[Ancient Egypt]], Dilmun (modern-day [[Bahrain]]) and possibly even as far as [[Crete]]. Although they have left behind impressive ruins of their cities as reminders of their existence, their writing system has yet to be deciphered, limiting further knowledge of their culture or history. Virtually all Indus Valley cities were abandoned by 1700 BCE. 1500 BCE marks the '''Indo-Aryan''' migration into the subcontinent and beginning of the Vedic Period. The Indo-Aryan people brought with them the Vedic [[Sanskrit phrasebook|Sanskrit]] language and the [[Hinduism|Vedas]], initially passed down orally. Early Vedic peoples were originally pastoral but over time turned into an agricultural society. The Vedic Period eventually gave rise to the ''Janapadas'', 16 political units in the form of republics or kingdoms that controlled Northern and Central India. At this time, the ''varna'' or caste/social class system developed, in which the ''Brahmins'', the highest ''varna'', were the priests, the ''Kshatriyas'' were the kings, warriors and nobility, ''Vaishyas'' were peasants, craftsmen and merchants and ''Shudras'', the lowest ''varna'', were traditionally the labourers and servants. Below the ''Shudra'' varna, were the outcastes, also known as the ''Dalits'' or "untouchables". Dalits performed jobs such as cleaning, tanning and dealing with corpses, and were shunned by people with a caste as their work was considered too dirty. Outside of the caste system were the ''Adivasis'', also referred to as tribal or indigenous people. Although regarded as primitive, unlike ''Dalits'', ''Adivasis'' were not considered impure by the rest of society and enjoyed greater levels of autonomy for much of South Asian history. Their autonomy and relative isolation were gradually brought to an end during the advent of the Mughal and British empires in the subcontinent. The '''Shramana''' (ascetic) movement emerged from 800 BCE which was distinct from and challenged Vedic culture and orthodoxy. Many new philosophical traditions were formed, from determinist Ajivika to atheistic and materialist Charvaka, but the two most famous Shramana philosophers were without a doubt, Gautama Siddartha, founder of [[Buddhism]], and Mahavira, founder of [[Jainism]], whose teachings continue to be influential to this day. From 530 BCE onwards, the [[Persian Empire|Achaemenid Empire]] crossed the Hindu Kush mountains in what is now Afghanistan, and began conquering large portions of territory in northwestern South Asia. This would be the first of many times that a '''Persian''' political presence was established in North India and Pakistan. A few centuries later, the first European presence followed, with [[Alexander the Great]] invading and defeating the Kambojas in modern-day Afghanistan and then defeating King Porus (Puru) in the epic Battle of the Hydaspes. Alexander's army reached the Beas River in [[Himachal Pradesh]] before revolting and turning back for fear of facing much larger and stronger armies further east, in particular the Nanda Empire. For another couple of centuries, the Greco-Bactrian kingdom and Indo-Greek kingdom blossomed in the northwestern areas, where a hybrid Greek-Buddhist culture thrived. The Indo-Greek kingdoms were pivotal in spreading Mahayana Buddhism through Central and East Asia. The '''[[Maurya Empire]]''' (322-180 BCE), the first empire to cover a large area in what is today northern India and Pakistan, was founded by Chandragupta Maurya (reign: 321-297 BCE) after he overthrew the Nanda Dynasty and defeated the surviving forces of Alexander the Great. It would be expanded further under his son, Bindusara (reign: 297-273 BCE), and his grandson, Ashoka (reign: 268-232 BCE). Ashoka was said to have been deeply remorseful after personally witnessing the destruction and cost in human lives resulting from his conquest of Kalinga (located in what is today the coastal regions of [[Odisha]] and northern [[Andhra Pradesh]]), following which he renounced any further conquests and converted to [[Buddhism]]. Following his conversion, Ashoka would send Buddhist missionaries far and wide, accelerating the spread of the religion to [[China]] and [[Southeast Asia]]. His reign would also see the erection of some of South Asia's most famous Buddhist monuments, most notably the famed Pillars of Ashoka that have been found at many sites in northern India and Nepal. The empire would, however, decline following the death of Ashoka, and eventually fractured into numerous small states. ===Classical India=== {{See also|Ahom Kingdom}}[[File:ShoreTemple Approach2.JPG|thumb|Shore Temple (c. 700 CE), [[Mamallapuram]]]] The next powerful large state to emerge was the '''Gupta Empire''' (late 3rd century-590 CE). The Gupta Empire would reach its zenith under the kings Chandra Gupta I (reign: 319-335 CE), Samudra Gupta (reign: 335-350 CE) and Chandra Gupta II (reign: 380-415 CE), during which the empire was expanded to cover much of northern India, and even extended into parts of southern India. The Gupta period is often said to be India's golden age, and saw a flourishing of [[Sanskrit phrasebook|Sanskrit]] literature. Panini's grammar, which continues to be the authoritative treatise on Sanskrit grammar to this day, was written during the Gupta period. ''Shakuntala'', arguably the most famous Indian play, was written by the Gupta-era poet Kalidasa. South India would later also give rise to various kingdoms, the best known of which are the '''Chalukyas''', '''Rashtrakutas''' and '''Vijayanagara''' who ruled from present day Karnataka and the '''Pallavas''', '''Cheras''', '''Pandyas''' and '''Cholas''' who ruled from present day Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Among them, the Cholas (c. 300 BCE-1279 CE), who ruled from various capital cities including [[Thanjavur]] and [[Gangaikonda Cholapuram]], are widely recognised to be the most powerful of the South Indian kingdoms, with their territory stretching as far north as Pataliputra and their influence spreading as far east as Sumatra, western Borneo and southern Vietnam at the height of their power. Some of the grandest Hindu and Jain monuments that exist in India were built during this time in South and East India. The Cholas would reach their zenith under the reigns of Rajaraja Chola I (reign: 985-1014), often referred to as Rajaraja the Great, and Rajendra Chola I (reign: 1014-1044), during which their empire would cover virtually the whole of southern India, and they would have tributary states as far as Southeast Asia. The Chola period also saw the construction of many of southern India's greatest monuments, as well as a flourishing of [[Tamil phrasebook|Tamil]] literature. [[North-Eastern India]] was also fairly isolated from the rest of South Asia until the colonial period. The largest and longest kingdom to rule over the Northeast were the '''Ningthouja dynasty''' (33–1891 CE) of [[Manipur]], followed by the '''[[Ahom Kingdom|Ahoms]]''' who, from the 13th to 19th centuries, successfully defended [[Assam]] and neighbouring regions from Mughal expansion. ===Medieval India=== {{Seealso|Mughal Empire|Maratha Empire|Sikhism}} [[Islam|Islamic]] incursions in South Asia started in the 8th century. Gradually the raiders started staying as rulers, and soon much of North India was ruled by Muslims. The most important Muslim rulers were the '''[[Mughal Empire|Mughals]]''' that at its peak covered almost the entire subcontinent (save the southern and northeastern extremities), while the major Hindu force that survived in the North were the '''Rajputs'''. The bravery of the Rajputs in resisting invasion of their land is legendary and celebrated in ballads all over the forts of [[Rajasthan]]. Prominent among the Rajputs was '''Maharana Pratap''', the ruler of [[Chittorgarh]], who spent years in exile fighting '''Akbar''', the third of the Mughals. Eventually, however, the Rajputs were subdued. Some Mughal armies had a high proportion of Rajput officers, although some Rajput rebellions still occurred during the reign of Jahangir, Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb. This period of North India produced the monumental gems of Rajasthan and the Taj Mahal. Hindi and Urdu also took root in medieval North India. During the Islamic period, there were Hindus that converted to Islam, often forcibly, or to avoid the Jizya tax, as told by Muslim chroniclers. [[Sikhism]] was founded by Guru Nanak in [[Punjab]] in the 15th century, while it was under Mughal rule. Conflict between the Sikhs and the Mughals was one of the causes for the eventual decline of the Mughal Empire. Another reason was the rise of the '''[[Maratha Empire]]''' based from [[Maharashtra]], which was started by '''Shivaji.''' and carried on by the '''Peshwas'''. The Marathas established a confederacy that was almost as large as the Mughal Empire. Marathas lost their command over India after the third battle of Panipat, which in turn paved a way for British colonialism. ===Colonial India=== {{Seealso|British Raj|Pacific War}} European traders started visiting India beginning in the late 16th century. Prominent among these were the British, Danish, Dutch, French and the Portuguese. Although it was the British who ruled most of South Asia, parts of the subcontinent were ruled by other European nations and independent kingdoms. The British East India Company made [[Kolkata|Calcutta]] their headquarters in 1772. They also established subsidiary cities like [[Mumbai|Bombay]] and [[Chennai|Madras]]. Calcutta later went on to become 'the second city of the empire after [[London]]'. By the 19th century, the British had, one way or the other assumed political control of virtually all of India, though the Portuguese, the Dutch and the French too had their enclaves along the coast. The British would send Indian labourers, policemen and soldiers all over the Empire, resulting in the establishment of Indian diaspora communities all over the world. There was an uprising by South Asian rulers in 1857 which was suppressed, but which prompted the British government to take over from the Company and make India a part of the empire. This period of rule by the crown, 1858–1947, was called the [[British Raj]]. It was a period in which some Indians converted to Christianity, though forcible conversions ended in the British Raj after 1859, and Queen Victoria's proclamation promised to respect the religious faiths of Indians. Resistance to British colonialism, led by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru etc., led to India's independence on 15 August 1947. The same year, British India was partitioned into Hindu-majority [[India]] and Muslim-majority [[Pakistan]]. ===Post-Colonial South Asia=== The partition of India eventually proved to be a major disaster in South Asian history. Several million people were uprooted, Muslims migrated from their homes in areas that would be part of India to live in Pakistan, with Hindus and Sikhs moving the other way. Mobs attacked migrants going both ways; most estimates of the death toll are a few hundred thousand, but some say well over a million. Neither the Indian nor the Pakistani government was happy with the border as the British defined it; some areas, notably [[Kashmir]], are still disputed today and the two countries have fought several wars over these disputes. India continues to experience occasional terrorist attacks, many of which are widely believed to originate in Pakistan and be ordered or assisted by its military-intelligence complex. In 1948, Burma and Ceylon gained independence from Britain, which became [[Myanmar]] and [[Sri Lanka]] respectively. The [[Maldives]] became independent in 1965. In 1950, the Dominion of India was declared a republic after adopting its constitution, while Pakistan did the same in 1956. Pakistan initially had two parts and the eastern part spun off from Pakistan after a bloody war of independence to become [[Bangladesh]] in 1971. In 1953, the Portuguese colony of [[Dadra and Nagar Haveli]] was incorporated to India, while the French government gave off their South Asian colonies to India in 1956. In 1961, the Portuguese colonies of [[Goa]], [[Daman (India)|Daman]] and [[Diu]] were incorporated to India. ==Destinations== * [[Mohenjo-daro]] * [[Harappa]] * [[Patna]] — Formerly known as '''Pataliputra''', this was the capital of the great Maurya and Gupta empires. * [[Thanjavur]] — One of the capitals of the Chola Empire. == See also == * [[South Asian cuisine]] — the food of India and surrounding countries is an important part of the region’s culture. {{PartOfTopic|Historical travel|South Asia}} {{outlinetopic}} 0tsl4kei05aely8ha4q6eo9g0v5csoo 5288859 5288858 2026-06-06T13:38:13Z Globetrotter30 2363356 /* Colonial India */ added 5288859 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mohenjodaro - view of the stupa mound (cropped).JPG}} [[South Asia]], also known as the Indian subcontinent, is one of the world's cradles of civilisation, with its first civilisations dating back to approximately 3400 BCE. The influences of South Asian kingdoms spread far and wide, leading to the establishment of Indianised kingdoms in [[Southeast Asia]] whose legacies endure to this day. ==Understand== ===Ancient India=== {{Seealso|Indus Valley Civilisation|On the trail of Alexander the Great|Maurya Empire}} The '''[[Indus Valley Civilisation]]''' was the first civilisation to form in what is today India and Pakistan. The Indus Valley had vast trade networks. Merchants traded with Central Asia and the Iranian plateau, Southern India, [[Mesopotamia]], [[Ancient Egypt]], Dilmun (modern-day [[Bahrain]]) and possibly even as far as [[Crete]]. Although they have left behind impressive ruins of their cities as reminders of their existence, their writing system has yet to be deciphered, limiting further knowledge of their culture or history. Virtually all Indus Valley cities were abandoned by 1700 BCE. 1500 BCE marks the '''Indo-Aryan''' migration into the subcontinent and beginning of the Vedic Period. The Indo-Aryan people brought with them the Vedic [[Sanskrit phrasebook|Sanskrit]] language and the [[Hinduism|Vedas]], initially passed down orally. Early Vedic peoples were originally pastoral but over time turned into an agricultural society. The Vedic Period eventually gave rise to the ''Janapadas'', 16 political units in the form of republics or kingdoms that controlled Northern and Central India. At this time, the ''varna'' or caste/social class system developed, in which the ''Brahmins'', the highest ''varna'', were the priests, the ''Kshatriyas'' were the kings, warriors and nobility, ''Vaishyas'' were peasants, craftsmen and merchants and ''Shudras'', the lowest ''varna'', were traditionally the labourers and servants. Below the ''Shudra'' varna, were the outcastes, also known as the ''Dalits'' or "untouchables". Dalits performed jobs such as cleaning, tanning and dealing with corpses, and were shunned by people with a caste as their work was considered too dirty. Outside of the caste system were the ''Adivasis'', also referred to as tribal or indigenous people. Although regarded as primitive, unlike ''Dalits'', ''Adivasis'' were not considered impure by the rest of society and enjoyed greater levels of autonomy for much of South Asian history. Their autonomy and relative isolation were gradually brought to an end during the advent of the Mughal and British empires in the subcontinent. The '''Shramana''' (ascetic) movement emerged from 800 BCE which was distinct from and challenged Vedic culture and orthodoxy. Many new philosophical traditions were formed, from determinist Ajivika to atheistic and materialist Charvaka, but the two most famous Shramana philosophers were without a doubt, Gautama Siddartha, founder of [[Buddhism]], and Mahavira, founder of [[Jainism]], whose teachings continue to be influential to this day. From 530 BCE onwards, the [[Persian Empire|Achaemenid Empire]] crossed the Hindu Kush mountains in what is now Afghanistan, and began conquering large portions of territory in northwestern South Asia. This would be the first of many times that a '''Persian''' political presence was established in North India and Pakistan. A few centuries later, the first European presence followed, with [[Alexander the Great]] invading and defeating the Kambojas in modern-day Afghanistan and then defeating King Porus (Puru) in the epic Battle of the Hydaspes. Alexander's army reached the Beas River in [[Himachal Pradesh]] before revolting and turning back for fear of facing much larger and stronger armies further east, in particular the Nanda Empire. For another couple of centuries, the Greco-Bactrian kingdom and Indo-Greek kingdom blossomed in the northwestern areas, where a hybrid Greek-Buddhist culture thrived. The Indo-Greek kingdoms were pivotal in spreading Mahayana Buddhism through Central and East Asia. The '''[[Maurya Empire]]''' (322-180 BCE), the first empire to cover a large area in what is today northern India and Pakistan, was founded by Chandragupta Maurya (reign: 321-297 BCE) after he overthrew the Nanda Dynasty and defeated the surviving forces of Alexander the Great. It would be expanded further under his son, Bindusara (reign: 297-273 BCE), and his grandson, Ashoka (reign: 268-232 BCE). Ashoka was said to have been deeply remorseful after personally witnessing the destruction and cost in human lives resulting from his conquest of Kalinga (located in what is today the coastal regions of [[Odisha]] and northern [[Andhra Pradesh]]), following which he renounced any further conquests and converted to [[Buddhism]]. Following his conversion, Ashoka would send Buddhist missionaries far and wide, accelerating the spread of the religion to [[China]] and [[Southeast Asia]]. His reign would also see the erection of some of South Asia's most famous Buddhist monuments, most notably the famed Pillars of Ashoka that have been found at many sites in northern India and Nepal. The empire would, however, decline following the death of Ashoka, and eventually fractured into numerous small states. ===Classical India=== {{See also|Ahom Kingdom}}[[File:ShoreTemple Approach2.JPG|thumb|Shore Temple (c. 700 CE), [[Mamallapuram]]]] The next powerful large state to emerge was the '''Gupta Empire''' (late 3rd century-590 CE). The Gupta Empire would reach its zenith under the kings Chandra Gupta I (reign: 319-335 CE), Samudra Gupta (reign: 335-350 CE) and Chandra Gupta II (reign: 380-415 CE), during which the empire was expanded to cover much of northern India, and even extended into parts of southern India. The Gupta period is often said to be India's golden age, and saw a flourishing of [[Sanskrit phrasebook|Sanskrit]] literature. Panini's grammar, which continues to be the authoritative treatise on Sanskrit grammar to this day, was written during the Gupta period. ''Shakuntala'', arguably the most famous Indian play, was written by the Gupta-era poet Kalidasa. South India would later also give rise to various kingdoms, the best known of which are the '''Chalukyas''', '''Rashtrakutas''' and '''Vijayanagara''' who ruled from present day Karnataka and the '''Pallavas''', '''Cheras''', '''Pandyas''' and '''Cholas''' who ruled from present day Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Among them, the Cholas (c. 300 BCE-1279 CE), who ruled from various capital cities including [[Thanjavur]] and [[Gangaikonda Cholapuram]], are widely recognised to be the most powerful of the South Indian kingdoms, with their territory stretching as far north as Pataliputra and their influence spreading as far east as Sumatra, western Borneo and southern Vietnam at the height of their power. Some of the grandest Hindu and Jain monuments that exist in India were built during this time in South and East India. The Cholas would reach their zenith under the reigns of Rajaraja Chola I (reign: 985-1014), often referred to as Rajaraja the Great, and Rajendra Chola I (reign: 1014-1044), during which their empire would cover virtually the whole of southern India, and they would have tributary states as far as Southeast Asia. The Chola period also saw the construction of many of southern India's greatest monuments, as well as a flourishing of [[Tamil phrasebook|Tamil]] literature. [[North-Eastern India]] was also fairly isolated from the rest of South Asia until the colonial period. The largest and longest kingdom to rule over the Northeast were the '''Ningthouja dynasty''' (33–1891 CE) of [[Manipur]], followed by the '''[[Ahom Kingdom|Ahoms]]''' who, from the 13th to 19th centuries, successfully defended [[Assam]] and neighbouring regions from Mughal expansion. ===Medieval India=== {{Seealso|Mughal Empire|Maratha Empire|Sikhism}} [[Islam|Islamic]] incursions in South Asia started in the 8th century. Gradually the raiders started staying as rulers, and soon much of North India was ruled by Muslims. The most important Muslim rulers were the '''[[Mughal Empire|Mughals]]''' that at its peak covered almost the entire subcontinent (save the southern and northeastern extremities), while the major Hindu force that survived in the North were the '''Rajputs'''. The bravery of the Rajputs in resisting invasion of their land is legendary and celebrated in ballads all over the forts of [[Rajasthan]]. Prominent among the Rajputs was '''Maharana Pratap''', the ruler of [[Chittorgarh]], who spent years in exile fighting '''Akbar''', the third of the Mughals. Eventually, however, the Rajputs were subdued. Some Mughal armies had a high proportion of Rajput officers, although some Rajput rebellions still occurred during the reign of Jahangir, Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb. This period of North India produced the monumental gems of Rajasthan and the Taj Mahal. Hindi and Urdu also took root in medieval North India. During the Islamic period, there were Hindus that converted to Islam, often forcibly, or to avoid the Jizya tax, as told by Muslim chroniclers. [[Sikhism]] was founded by Guru Nanak in [[Punjab]] in the 15th century, while it was under Mughal rule. Conflict between the Sikhs and the Mughals was one of the causes for the eventual decline of the Mughal Empire. Another reason was the rise of the '''[[Maratha Empire]]''' based from [[Maharashtra]], which was started by '''Shivaji.''' and carried on by the '''Peshwas'''. The Marathas established a confederacy that was almost as large as the Mughal Empire. Marathas lost their command over India after the third battle of Panipat, which in turn paved a way for British colonialism. ===Colonial India=== {{Seealso|British Raj|Pacific War}} European traders started visiting India beginning in the late 16th century. Prominent among these were the [[British Empire|British]], [[Danish Empire|Danish]], [[Dutch Empire|Dutch]], [[French Colonial Empire|French]] and the [[Portuguese Empire|Portuguese]]. Although it was the British who ruled most of South Asia, parts of the subcontinent were ruled by other European nations and independent kingdoms. The British East India Company made [[Kolkata|Calcutta]] their headquarters in 1772. They also established subsidiary cities like [[Mumbai|Bombay]] and [[Chennai|Madras]]. Calcutta later went on to become 'the second city of the empire after [[London]]'. By the 19th century, the British had, one way or the other assumed political control of virtually all of India, though the Portuguese, the Dutch and the French too had their enclaves along the coast. The British would send Indian labourers, policemen and soldiers all over the Empire, resulting in the establishment of Indian diaspora communities all over the world. There was an uprising by South Asian rulers in 1857 which was suppressed, but which prompted the British government to take over from the Company and make India a part of the empire. This period of rule by the crown, 1858–1947, was called the [[British Raj]]. It was a period in which some Indians converted to Christianity, though forcible conversions ended in the British Raj after 1859, and Queen Victoria's proclamation promised to respect the religious faiths of Indians. Resistance to British colonialism, led by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru etc., led to India's independence on 15 August 1947. The same year, British India was partitioned into Hindu-majority [[India]] and Muslim-majority [[Pakistan]]. ===Post-Colonial South Asia=== The partition of India eventually proved to be a major disaster in South Asian history. Several million people were uprooted, Muslims migrated from their homes in areas that would be part of India to live in Pakistan, with Hindus and Sikhs moving the other way. Mobs attacked migrants going both ways; most estimates of the death toll are a few hundred thousand, but some say well over a million. Neither the Indian nor the Pakistani government was happy with the border as the British defined it; some areas, notably [[Kashmir]], are still disputed today and the two countries have fought several wars over these disputes. India continues to experience occasional terrorist attacks, many of which are widely believed to originate in Pakistan and be ordered or assisted by its military-intelligence complex. In 1948, Burma and Ceylon gained independence from Britain, which became [[Myanmar]] and [[Sri Lanka]] respectively. The [[Maldives]] became independent in 1965. In 1950, the Dominion of India was declared a republic after adopting its constitution, while Pakistan did the same in 1956. Pakistan initially had two parts and the eastern part spun off from Pakistan after a bloody war of independence to become [[Bangladesh]] in 1971. In 1953, the Portuguese colony of [[Dadra and Nagar Haveli]] was incorporated to India, while the French government gave off their South Asian colonies to India in 1956. In 1961, the Portuguese colonies of [[Goa]], [[Daman (India)|Daman]] and [[Diu]] were incorporated to India. ==Destinations== * [[Mohenjo-daro]] * [[Harappa]] * [[Patna]] — Formerly known as '''Pataliputra''', this was the capital of the great Maurya and Gupta empires. * [[Thanjavur]] — One of the capitals of the Chola Empire. == See also == * [[South Asian cuisine]] — the food of India and surrounding countries is an important part of the region’s culture. {{PartOfTopic|Historical travel|South Asia}} {{outlinetopic}} 1mig73yr5nleej7i2ba96erb71v5xbl 0 174926 5289020 5187359 2026-06-07T08:52:04Z Antari86 2419469 Add 240-hour visa-free transit info (now includes Daxing) + multilingual live-arrivals/transport resource 5289020 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Beijing Daxing Banner.jpg}} [[File:West rainbow bridge of ZBAD (20190823145032).jpg|thumb|Airport interior]] '''[https://www.bdia.com.cn Beijing Daxing International Airport]''' (北京大兴国际机场 ''Běijīng Dàxīng Guójì Jīchǎng'', {{IATA|PKX}}) is a major airport serving [[Beijing]], the capital of [[China]], and the surrounding area. ==Understand== Beijing Daxing opened in Sep 2019, and is the largest in the world by area. It has been designed to be the next international hub of the Beijing area and the country in general, with the goal of being able to serve up to 100 million passengers annually. In 2018 only two airports had seen that many passengers - [[Atlanta Airport]] and [[Beijing Capital Airport]]. However, because of this and incentives to develop the nearby area, the airport is far from the city center. It is 47 km south of the city center. It is partly in greater Beijing and partly in the surrounding province of [[Hebei]]. The sole terminal, with six arms radiating from a central nexus, is nicknamed "starfish" due to its shape and color. The design was chosen to allow it to be both a gigantic airport capable of serving a hundred million passengers every year and still have manageable lengths between different parts of the airport. It may or may not have been inspired by the hexagonal terminal of the former [[Berlin]] Tegel airport which shut down in 2020 and was notable for its short distances. With the opening of Daxing, one of the oldest airports in the world, Nanyuan Airport, opened in 1910, closed to civilian traffic after over a century of operations. As of 2024, Daxing is one of the ports of entry for China's 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit, available to citizens of 55 eligible countries who are continuing to a third country; eligible travellers can leave the airport and visit Beijing and many other regions without a visa. For live arrivals and departures and ground-transport options in multiple languages, see [https://beijing-daxing-pkx-international-airport.com/en/beijing-daxing-airport-arrivals this independent traveller guide]. ==Flights== {{mapframe|39.509167|116.410556|zoom=14}} {{mapshape}} {{mapshapes|Q235319}} <!--Subway lines--> Most flights are domestic. Budget carrier '''[http://www.flycua.com/ China United Airlines]''' has its main hub here and dominates the airport. Several Chinese airlines, including the major players Air China, China Southern and China Eastern also have a significant presence. There are also a few other carriers from the rest of the world, with more gradually moving or adding flights in the future. SkyTeam and Oneworld members are more ambitious about operating at Daxing, while Star Alliance members tend to want to stay at Capital. ==Ground transportation== While the airport is a long way away from the city, there are several transportation options that make it easy, and even fairly fast, to access. ===By rail=== Rail is probably intended to be how most passengers (or at least most tourists) will get to and from Daxing. {{marker|type=go|lat=39.513921|long=116.409934|name=Daxing Airport station}} serves all rail transport at the airport, with separate areas for the subway and high-speed trains. ====By high-speed train==== The '''Beijing-Xiong'an intercity railway''' provides high-speed rail service to the city center. From the airport, it goes to Beijing Daxing (next to Huangcun railway station, with connections to the conventional rail network and {{rint|beijing|Daxing}}) and Beijing West (connections to both HSR and conventional rail, as well as {{rint|Beijing|7}}{{rint|Beijing|9}}) stations. A ticket to or from Beijing West costs between {{CNY|12}} and {{CNY|30}} (Dec 2025), depending on the time of day. More high-speed railway lines are planned to pass through the airport, connecting it to the rest of Hebei and Tianjin. ====By subway==== [[File:Entrance of Daxing Airport Subway Station (20190925173651).jpg|thumb|Entrance to the subway station]] The '''Daxing Airport Express''' connects the airport to Daxing (at Daxing Xicheng) and the subway at Caoqiao (outer loop line {{rint|beijing|10}}). It is somewhat more expensive, costing {{CNY|35}} to Caoqiao, and will require at least one more transfer to get into the city center. However, it also features city check-in for what seems to be all airlines flying into Daxing. There are also business class cars with separate faregates and entrances; these have a higher fare of {{CNY|50}}. ===By shuttle bus=== There is a counter at the east of level 1F for buying bus tickets for the Airport Shuttle Bus, with 5 daytime routes and 1 overnight route, all costing {{CNY|40}}. It's the same operator that serves Capital. ===By public bus=== For those with a lot more time than money to spare, the cheapest and slowest way to go is to take bus 849 from Muxiyuan (木樨园) {{rint|Beijing|8}} to Yufa (marked as 榆垡站 and not to be confused with many neighbouring and similarly named stops), the trip costing 9 yuan, then cross the road and take the bus marked 兴航城1路, seemingly in the opposite direction, which will take you straight to the airport, for additional 3 or 4 yuan. Bus 849 can also be caught at {{geo|lat=39.852816|long=116.354833}} near Caoqiao Station {{rint|Beijing|19}}{{rint|Beijing|10}}, a longer walk from the station and costing 8 instead of 9 yuan to Yufa. The two bus rides should take slightly over one hour from Muxiyuan to Yufa and around half an hour from Yufa to the airport. ===By car=== The Daxing Airport Expressway (Provincial Expressway S3501) is the main route to the airport. It runs through Daxing and terminates at Beijing's 5th ring road (S50). A toll is charged for vehicles traversing the route. In addition, the Daxing Airport North Line Expressway (Provincial Expressway S3300) connects the airport to multiple highways and expressways. It is not directly accessible from the terminal — you must use S3501, which S3300 runs perpendicular to, to merge onto it. ==Get around== [[File:Concourse E of Beijing Daxing International Airport (20190823145347).jpg|thumb|Concourse in the airport]] The airport does not have any peoplemovers, but it is claimed that it only requires 8 minutes to walk from security to the farthest gate - a claimed benefit of the six-armed star-shape of the terminal. ==Wait== ==Eat and drink== [[File:And More Restaurant at PKX 5F (20191027173915).jpg|thumb|Mediterranean-style restaurant on the 5th floor]] Restaurants before security are available on floors 1, 2, 3 and 5, while more choices are offered in the post-security area, mostly on the 2nd floor of domestic departure/arrival concourse. * {{eat | name=And More Restaurant | alt=小莫餐厅 | url=https://www.bdia.com.cn/#/foodDetail?POIId=11&floor=F5 | email= | address=S-AR05-007~009, 5th Floor, Terminal Building | lat= | long= | directions=non-restricted area/landside | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:00 - last flight of the day | price={{CNY|200}}-{{CNY|300}}|lastedit=2019-10-28 | content=A Mediterranean-style restaurant brand under Beijing Exhibition Center Group, offering Spanish, Italian and French dishes.}} * {{eat | name=Grandma's Home | alt=外婆家 | url=https://www.bdia.com.cn/#/foodDetail?POIId=16&floor=F5 | email= | address=S-AR05-002~004, 5th Floor, Terminal Building | lat= | long= | directions=non-restricted area/landside | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 10:00 - last flight of the day | price={{CNY|80}}-{{CNY|150}}|lastedit=2019-10-28 | content= A Chinese restaurant chain offering Hangzhou-style dishes.}} * {{eat | name=The Dining Room | alt=南小馆 | url=https://www.bdia.com.cn/#/foodDetail?POIId=1350&floor=F2 | email= | address= Domestic arrival hall, 2nd Floor, Terminal Building | lat= | long= | directions=non-restricted area/landside | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=06:00 - last flight of the day | price={{CNY|85}}-{{CNY|100}}|lastedit=2019-10-28 | content=Shanghai-style restaurant offering noodles, wonton, Xiaolongbao, etc.}} * {{eat | name=Western Mahua | alt=西部马华 | url=https://www.bdia.com.cn/#/foodDetail?POIId=182&floor=F1 | email= | address=S-AR01-001 / S-G01-001, international arrival hall (near Airport Bus Ticket Office), 1st Floor, Terminal Building | lat= | long= | directions=non-restricted area/landside | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=05:00 - last flight of the day | price={{CNY|40}}|lastedit=2019-10-28 | content=A branch of Western Mahua Beef Noodles restaurant, a halal restaurant chain in Beijing offering Lanzhou-style beef noodle soup.}} ==Buy== [[File:Gucci store at PKX 2F (20190926161203).jpg|thumb|The Gucci store]] There are already some stores for brands such as Gucci and Huawei in the airport. ==Connect== ==Cope== ==Sleep== There is a hotel on the east of the terminal building. *{{sleep | name = Aerotel Beijing | alt = 北京遨途机场酒店 | url = https://www.myaerotel.com/en-uk/find/china-regions/mainland-china/beijing/aerotel-beijing | email = hello.pkx@myaerotel.com | address = Northeast Pier, Beijing Daxing International Airport | lat = | long = | directions = | phone = +86 10 8921 0666 | tollfree = | fax = | hours = | price = | checkin = | checkout = | lastedit= 2019-10-28 | content = On the first and second levels of the Northeast Pier, with 215 guestrooms. Hourly and full-day room rates are available. }} ==Nearby== {{IsPartOf|Beijing}} {{outlineairport}} {{geo|39.509167|116.410556}} o0eehwtucw5f8m7ideelewlrwf2fl9l 0 175745 5288864 4964649 2026-06-06T13:52:13Z Globetrotter30 2363356 /* See also */ added 5288864 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Indian Classical Music Banner.jpg}} '''Indian classical music''' refers to two distinct yet related musical traditions in [[South Asia]]: Hindustani classical music in the north and Carnatic classical music in the south. ==Understand== [[File:Ravi Shankar.jpg|thumb|Ravi Shankar playing the sitar at Woodstock Festival in 1969]] The origins of Indian classical music go far into times B.C., and basic concepts of scale and interval have remained essentially constant in Indian classical music for over 2,000 years. There are also basic forms such as the ''raga'' (Hindustani) and ''kriti'' (both styles, but especially Carnatic) which are long-established. However, Indian classical music includes a great deal of improvisation, so if you hear two different performances of a specific piece, they may be of very different lengths, have more or less ornamentation, and be played in very different instrumental combinations, with or without singers. Yet listeners who know the style will recognize them as the same song. While there are minor regional variations, Indian classical music was overall an integrated system until around the 13th-14th centuries A.D., when political upheavals led to isolation between the north and south. Gradually the classical musical tradition diverged into Hindustani and Carnatic. However, both traditions have continued to influence each other over the centuries, and particularly in modern times. There has also been some influence from Western music, particularly inasmuch as some instruments brought to South Asia during the [[British Raj]] have been integrated, especially the violin, and also the saxophone beginning in the 20th century. Pakistan and Bangladesh are part of the Hindustani tradition in classical Indian music. Traditionally, all or nearly all pieces of Indian classical music can be sung with words and are religious (usually Hindu or Muslim, but some are Christian or of other religions) and in some measure, praise to a deity. Indian classical music gained exposure and rose to prominence in the West and the rest of the world in the 1960s with the rise of the hippie movement and rock musicians such as the Beatles and Mike Love from the Beach Boys travelling to India and being influenced by Indian sounds. This fusion genre incorporating the use of the sitar, drones and other features became known as ''raga rock'' and peaked in popularity during the late 60s. The most famous Indian classical musician at the time, sitarist Ravi Shankar, became a household name abroad. ===Instruments=== Indian classical music has essentially three kinds of instruments: # A drone, usually provided by repeated notes on a plucked string instrument, the tambura, or electronically from a sruti box, which sounds almost the same. The notes are typically 5-octave-octave-1, in terms of the notes of the ''rag'' (mode). # A drum or set of drums that keeps time. In the Hindustani tradition, the core of this section is provided by the tabla player, who plays a pair of drums, one of which is pitched. In the Carnatic tradition, the core of this section is the mrdangam, a double-headed drum with one pitched head. # The melody instruments. There can be one or more. Vocalists are in this category, which also includes plucked string instruments such as the sitar, vina and sarod, bowed strings such as the sarangi and violin, and the bansuri wooden flute, though there are many others. ===Sound and feel=== Each piece of classical Indian music is in a specific ''rag'' - that is, a mode with specific pitches, intervals and melodic tendencies. Each rag is also associated with a particular emotion, deity and time of day, so in long concerts, there can be a progression from one rag to another as the day moves into a different period. Each piece is also in a particular ''tala''. Tala is meter, the repeating framework which is the foundation for all the rhythms in metered sections. Talas in Indian music are typically more complex and in longer cycles than in most European music. It is common for pieces to begin unmetered, with one or two completely improvised sections. Generally, the tala begins when you start to hear a steady rhythm from the tabla or mrdangam player. Indian music theory has the concept of a pitch, called a ''svara'', but there is generally a high to very high level of ornamentation in Indian music, so a single note is often not one steady pitch. A greater difference from much European music is that intervals between notes in Indian music are rarely close to the 12-tone even tempered system that has been ascendant in most European music for over 100 years. Instead, each rag has its own intervals, and everyone tunes their instrument for each rag before the composed melody of the piece is sounded. In the case of plucked string instruments, this means moving the frets so that they sound only the tones of the particular rag before being performed. ==Talk== ==Destinations== * {{listing | name=[[Maihar]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.27 | long=80.75 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q747140 | lastedit=2021-01-04 | content=The birthplace of the Maihar ''gharana'', a sitar-based school of Hindustani classical music. Doyen Ustad Allauddin Khan and his prominent disciples Ravi Shankar and Nikhil Banerjee lived in Maihar for a long time. }} ==Events== *{{event| name=Chennai December Season | url=http://www.chennaidecemberseason.com/ | year= | month= | date= | endyear= | endmonth= | enddate= | location=Chennai | country=India | content=Annual cultural event spanning 9 weeks from mid-November to January. Many of the greatest professional and amateur Carnatic musicians perform all kinds of compositions and improvisations in halls owned by the ''sabhas'' (Carnatic music organisations that run the event). The performances typically take place in the afternoon and evenings.}} *{{event| name=Dhrupad Mela | url= | year= | month= | date= | endyear= | endmonth= | enddate= | location=Varanasi | country=India | content=A 4-day Hindustani music extravaganza in February. Artists perform throughout the night, enlivening the Tulsi Ghat in the Hindu holy city. The festival culminates at sunrise.}} ==Respect== ==See also== *[[European classical music]] *[[Indian cinema tourism]] {{PartOfTopic|Music}} {{outlinetopic}} 5spph3sg33ciffofmd4uj02yph7dysm 0 177299 5288937 5288360 2026-06-06T20:26:48Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5288937 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Kinross banner Loch Leven.jpg}} '''Kinross''' is a small town in [[Perth and Kinross]], 13 miles south of Perth. With a population of 5650 in 2021, it stands on the shores of Loch Leven, with the scarp of the Lomond Hills looming to the east and a mysterious giant golf ball to the west. The reason to visit is to take the boat across the loch to the island castle, where Mary Queen of Scots was held captive but escaped. Another island in the loch may be the place where Macbeth's theatrical fate was first written down. == Understand == [[File:Radome, Balado Bridge airfield - geograph.org.uk - 819522.jpg | thumb | 300px | The golf ball at Balado Bridge ]] '''The Lomond Hills''' are volcanic crags that force the route from the Fife coast (nowadays the M90) to pass this way before crossing the Ochil hills towards Perth. Kinross thus grew up as a market town in a fertile lowland plain. From 1890 it was the county town of the small county of Kinross-shire. In 1927 the county council adopted the sturdy slogan “For all time”, which turned out to mean until 1930 when the county was amalgamated with Perthshire. There isn't a physical tourist information centre, but see [https://www.facebook.com/visitlochleven Visit Loch Leven] online. == Get in == {{marker | name=Junction 6 of M90 | type=go | lat=56.2084 | long=-3.4364 }} is the transport hub for Kinross. West side is a service area and hotel, and A971 heads west to join A911 towards Stirling. East side is a [https://www.pkc.gov.uk/article/14974/Kinross-Park-and-Ride Park & Ride]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} with 126 spaces, and an inter-city bus stop. [https://www.citylink.co.uk/ Citylink] Bus M90 / M92 runs every 30 min from [[Edinburgh]], taking 50 min via Halbeath P&R (for [[Dunfermline]]) and continuing to Broxden P&R on the edge of Perth. From Broxden they fan out to [[Perth (Scotland) | Perth]] town centre, or to [[Pitlochry]], [[Aviemore]] and [[Inverness]], or to [[Dundee]] and [[Aberdeen]]. Stagecoach Bus X56 runs hourly from Edinburgh via Halbeath P&R and Kelty to Kinross P&R, Kinross town centre (by Green Hotel), Milnathort and Bridge of Earn, and Perth town centre near the railway station. [https://www.ember.to/ Ember Electric Bus] also glides hourly from Edinburgh via Kinross P&R to Dundee. Megabus doesn't stop here, but their website offers Citylink services. == Get around == {{mapframe | 56.200 | -3.390 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=12 }} From the P&R to town centre and on to the boat pier is only a mile. You'll need a car to get round the loch, for instance to climb The Bishop. == See == * '''Loch Leven''' is the shallow freshwater lake east side of town: it may be the crater of a meteor impact. It’s triangular, 4 miles long by 1½ miles wide, and is drained from its southeast tip by the River Leven, which flows east to the coast at [[Leven]]. In the early 19th century the upper river was canalised, the surrounding wetland drained for farming, and the level of the loch dropped by almost 5 feet. So its islands enlarged while new ones appeared. Much wetland remains, and the islands provide safe nesting for both resident and migratory birds, such as pink-footed geese in their thousands. The area is therefore a National Nature Reserve (NNR) and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). * {{see | name=Loch Leven Castle | alt= | url=https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/lochleven-castle/ | email= | address=Kinross KY13 8UF | lat=56.2008 | long=-3.3919 | directions=10 min ferry from Kinross pier | phone=+44 7836 313769 | tollfree= | hours=Apr-Oct daily 10AM-4PM | price=Adult £10, conc £9, child £6, HS free | wikidata=Q514388 | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=Mary Stuart was only six days old when in 1542 her father James V died, and she became Queen of Scotland. At first, regents ruled the country while she lived mostly in France. Her husbands were short-lived: first Francis II of France, then Lord Darnley; Mary promptly married Bothwell who was suspected of Darnley's murder. In 1567 the pair of them were overthrown, and Mary was imprisoned in Loch Leven Castle and forced to abdicate. She made several attempts to escape and succeeded in 1568: the scene of her being rowed away has graced innumerable historical romances. She made her way to England thinking her cousin Queen Elizabeth would protect her — big mistake. The castle was built around 1300 and took up almost all of what was then a much smaller island, and an early visitor under duress was King Alexander III. In the 17th century it ceased to be a residence and fell derelict. It's now in the keeping of Historic Environment Scotland. You can stroll the peaceful woodlands while awaiting the return ferry. This only has capacity for 12, so on summer weekends best book your visit. }} * {{marker | type=see | name=St Serfs Inch | lat=56.1897 | long=-3.3573 }} is the largest island in the loch. You'll probably just admire it through binoculars as there are no regular boat trips. Its ruined Augustinian monastery or priory is 12th century but stands on the site of a much older Culdee foundation. Macbeth’s theatrical fate may have been first written here, as its canon Andrew of Wyntoun related the witches’ prophecies in the ''Orygynale Cronykil of Scotland''. This was written circa 1420 and Shakespeare drew on this source. Wyntoun also described [[Robin Hood]], who first appeared in legend in the 13th century. * {{see | name=Burleigh Castle | alt= | url=https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/burleigh-castle/ | email= | address=Burleigh Rd, Milnathort KY13 9GG | lat=56.2259 | long=-3.4065 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Apr-Sep: M Tu Th F and first Sa Su of month 9:30AM-5PM | price= | wikipedia=Burleigh Castle | wikidata=Q2238800 | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=15th-century tower house. The exterior grounds are always accessible. No parking here, park in Milnathort and walk up. }} * {{marker | name=Orwell Standing Stones | type=see | lat=56.2239 | long=-3.3734 }} are in a field by A911, one 7 ft tall the other 9½ ft. Prehistoric burial remains were found beneath them and in the nearby fields. There's nowhere to park on the busy narrow main road but you may be able to pull onto the grassy verge. * {{marker | type=see | name=[https://www.rspb.org.uk/days-out/reserves/loch-leven RSPB Loch Leven] | lat=56.1766 | long=-3.3549 }} has bird hides, always open. The visitor centre is open daily 10AM-5PM, cafe to 4PM. The area is free but the car park costs £3. * {{marker | type=see | name=Scotlandwell | lat=56.200 | long=-3.315 }} has been a spa and pilgrimage site since Roman times for its spring bubbling out of the hillside. Robert the Bruce is said to have been cured of leprosy here. By the 19th century it was “an almost unapproachable slough of mire and filth" but village and well were refurbished in the 1850s and again in modern times. * {{marker | type=see | name=The golf ball | lat=56.210 | long=-3.460 }} west of town is the radar dome of a former Ministry of Defence (MOD) communications base, containing a large dish antenna. Balado Bridge was an RAF airfield 1942-57 then from 1985 to 2006 was a Satcom II Satellite Ground Listening Station. From 1997 to 2014 the nearby fields hosted “T in the Park” music festival, which then moved to Strathallan Castle then folded. The airfield’s hard standing nowadays supports a fine array of chicken sheds. The MOD sold the site in 2007; in the years since it's been back on the market with an asking price of £1 million. The main blockhouse is claimed to be proof against chemical and nuclear attack and chickens. No public access to the site but you see enough from the road. * {{marker | type=see | name=[https://www.tullibolecastle.com/ Tullibole Castle] | lat=56.1883 | long=-3.5280 }} off A977 is a 17th-century tower house, and nowadays a posh event venue. == Do == [[File:Coming in to land - geograph.org.uk - 1742181.jpg | thumb | 300px | Glider over Portmoak]] * '''Loch Leven Heritage Trail''' circles the loch. It's firm going and barrier free — 13 miles to go round, so maybe one to cycle rather than walk. * '''The Bishop''' is the scarp of the Lomond Hills that rises steeply east of the loch. The best path starts opposite Portmoak Church 400 yards north of Scotlandwell. There are various rock formations, the most striking being the 30-foot Carlin Maggie, said to be a petrified witch. * '''Glenfarg Folk Club''' meet every Monday night at 8PM in the back of the Green Hotel, see "Sleep". * {{marker | type=do | name= Kirkgate Park | lat=56.2015 | long=-3.4127 }} has shoreline walks, a children's play area, grass amphitheatre and wildflower labyrinth. * '''[https://www.kinrossgolfclub.co.uk/ Kinross Golf Club]''' is east side of the village, access by the lane opposite Green Hotel. They have two 18-hole courses. * {{do | name=Milnathort Golf Club | alt=Burleigh GC | url=https://www.milnathortgolfclub.co.uk/ | email= | address=South St, Milnathort KY13 9AX | lat=56.2259 | long=-3.4193 | directions= | phone=+44 1577 864069 | tollfree= | hours= | price=18 holes £30 | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=9 hole golf course, the clubhouse has a bar and restaurant. }} * {{do | name=Scottish Gliding Centre | alt= | url=https://scottishglidingcentre.co.uk/ | email= | address=Portmoak Airfield KY13 9JJ | lat=56.1889 | long=-3.3219 | directions=off B920 | phone=+44 1592 840543 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=Gliding for beginners and the experienced, launching by winch or tug plane to soar over the ridges. }} * '''Paragliders''' also launch off the steep Bishop hill. * '''Lochore Meadows''' is a park and water activities centre 2 miles south of Loch Leven, around Loch Ore which formed through mining subsidence. Mary Pit colliery headgear still stands. == Buy == * {{buy | name=Sainsbury's | alt= | url=https://stores.sainsburys.co.uk/2217/kinross | email= | address=65 Station Rd KY13 8FH | lat=56.207134 | long=-3.433743 | directions=at P&R | phone=+44 1577 885000 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 8AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=Large supermarket, doesn't have a filling station, but there are charging points in the P&R. }} * {{buy | name=Caulders Garden Centre | alt= | url=https://www.caulders.co.uk/ | email= | address=Turfhills KY13 0NQ | lat= | long= | directions=next to M90 service station | phone=+44 1577 863327 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-5:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=Garden centre with cafe. }} == Eat == [[File:Wellhouse, Scotlandwell - geograph.org.uk - 4393647.jpg | thumb | 300px | The well at Scotlandwell ]] * '''Budget eats''' in town centre are Reminisce (Tu-Su 9AM-4PM), La Casanova (Th-M 4-9PM), [https://www.therajmahalkinross.co.uk/ Raj Mahal] (daily 5-10PM) and [https://www.unorthodoxroasters.co.uk/ Unorthodox Roasters] (daily 9:30AM-5PM). * {{eat | name=Muirs Inn | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/muirsinn/ | email= | address=49 Muirs KY13 8AU | lat=56.2111 | long=-3.4248 | directions= | phone=+44 1577 862270 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=Inn opened in the 1800s with restaurant, bar and four guest bedrooms. }} * {{eat | name=Grouse and Claret | alt= | url=https://www.grouseandclaret.com/ | email= | address=Heatheryford KY13 0NQ | lat=56.2038 | long=-3.4433 | directions= | phone=+44 1577 864212 | tollfree= | hours=Su W Th noon-5PM; F Sa noon-2PM, 7-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=Great little restaurant just west of town, whose name correctly intuits just what you were seeking. They also have accommodation in a detached 3-bedroom cottage, sleeps six. }} * '''Milnathort''' has the Village Inn, open Su-Th 3-11PM, F Sa 3PM-midnight. * {{eat | name=Lochend Farm Shop | alt= | url=https://www.lochendfarmshop.co.uk/ | email=office@lochendfarmshop.co.uk | address=Scotlandwell KY13 9JQ | lat= | long= | directions=next to Gliding Centre | phone=+44 1592 840745 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-5PM (Hot food served until 4PM) | price= | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=A quiet farm shop serving soups, hot rolls, paninis and cakes; eat in or take away. }} == Drink == * {{drink | name=Loch Leven Brewery | alt= | url=https://www.lochleven.beer/ | email= | address=The Muirs KY13 8AS | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Green Hotel | phone=+44 1577 864881 | tollfree= | hours=Tap room Tu-Th 4-9PM, F 4-10PM, Sa noon-10PM, Su 2-8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=Brews four different beers, with shop and tap room pub. }} * '''[https://www.theginlaboratory.com/ Gin Laboratory]''' behind Green Hotel shows you how it's made, then you mix your own bottle. == Sleep == [[File:Kinross House - geograph.org.uk - 1210362.jpg | thumb | 300px | Kinross House ]] * {{sleep | name=Travelodge | alt= | url=https://www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/213/Kinross-M90-hotel | email= | address=Jcn 6 of M90 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 871 984 6151 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=Efficient chain hotel within motorway service station. }} * {{sleep | name=Gallowhill Camping and Caravan Park | alt= | url=https://www.gallowhillcc.com/ | email= | address=Gallowhill Farm KY13 0RD | lat=56.2168 | long=-3.4432 | directions= | phone=+44 1577 862364 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Tent £24, hook-up £32 | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=Dog-friendly site open Apr-Oct, some gripes about noise, caravans packed too close together, and you need a supply of £1 coins for hot water. }} * {{sleep | name=The Green Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.green-hotel.com/ | email= | address=2 The Muirs KY13 6AS | lat=56.2084 | long=-3.4239 | directions= | phone=+44 1577 863467 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £150 | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=46 room hotel, established in the 18th century as a coaching inn, where the Queensferry to Perth stagecoach changed horses. Generally good, some decor tired. }} * {{sleep | name=Kirklands Hotel | alt= | url=https://thekirklandshotel.com/ | email= | address=20 High St KY13 8AN | lat= | long= | directions=100 yards north of Salutation | phone=+44 1577 863313 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=Value-for-money hotel with 8 rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Salutation Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/salutationhotel19 | email= | address=99 High St KY13 8AA | lat=56.2042 | long=-3.4209 | directions= | phone=+44 1577 865722 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £80 | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=More like a pub with rooms. }} * {{marker | type=sleep | name=[https://www.kinrosshouse.com/ Kinross House] | lat=56.2035 | long=-3.4099 }} is a grand 17th-century mansion just north of the park and ferry jetty. It's not a hotel but you can hire the lot for big events such as weddings, 24 rooms, sleeps 48. It's also possible to use the spa as a day visitor. Daniel Defoe the author of Robinson Crusoe sang its praises, though he obviously decided that the islands in the loch weren't quite the setting he was looking for. *'''M90 junction 3''', ten miles south on the edge of [[Dunfermline]], has a cluster of accommodation and other amenities. == Connect == [[File:The escape of Mary, Queen of Scots from Loch Leven Castle Met DP890151.jpg | thumb | 300px | MQOS dithers over her next destination ]] As of March 2025, Kinross and its approach roads have 4G from Three and Vodafone, and 5G from EE and O2. {{listing | name=Loch Leven Community Library | alt= | url=https://www.culturepk.org.uk/your-local-library/loch-leven-community-library/ | email= | address=Community Campus KY13 8FG | lat=56.2161 | long=-3.4261 | directions= | phone=+44 1577 867205| tollfree= | hours=M 10AM-1PM, Tu-F 10AM-6PM, Sa 10AM-3PM | price= | lastedit=2024-04-17 | content=Library with WiFi and a public computer, printer and scanner. }} == Go next == * South to [[Dunfermline]], birthplace of tycoon Andrew Carnegie, to see the abbey. * West to the lyrically-named Yetts of Muckhart, which is just a road junction. Either continue west to scenic [[Dollar]] and eventually [[Stirling]], or branch north through Glen Devon, one of the most attractive glens of Scotland, to descend the other side via Gleneagles. * Falkland Palace is a few miles east of Kinross, see [[Glenrothes]]. * Further east in [[Fife]] is the East Neuk with charming fishing villages such as [[Anstruther]], and the highlight is classy [[St Andrews]]. * North to [[Perth (Scotland) | Perth]], an agreeable small city, with Scone Palace a few miles northeast. {{routebox | image1=UK-Motorway-M90.svg | imagesize1=50 | directionl1=S | majorl1=[[Edinburgh]] | minorl1=[[Dunfermline]] | directionr1=S | minorr1=[[Perth (Scotland) | Perth]] | majorr1=[[Dundee]]/[[Inverness]] | image2=UK road A91.svg | imagesize2=40 | directionl2=SW | majorl2=[[Stirling]] | minorl2=[[Dollar]] | directionr2=NE | minorr2=junction [[Image:UK road A92.svg|30px]] ([[Dundee]]) | majorr2=[[St Andrews]] }} {{geo|56.2124|-3.4288}} {{IsPartOf|Perth and Kinross}} {{usablecity}} 5qcn8t184xbpr0qzbr3x9rg0gh7a2ty 0 181998 5288866 5255490 2026-06-06T13:52:54Z Globetrotter30 2363356 added 5288866 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} '''Indian cinema tourism''' refers to the Indian film industry, which consists of multiple 'woods'. The largest is '''Bollywood''', a portmanteau of the city of Mumbai's former name "Bombay" and "Hollywood". In fact it is the largest in the world by the number of feature films made each year, well ahead of Hollywood. Other 'woods', smaller but still of significant size, include '''Tollywood''' (Telugu cinema), '''Sandalwood''' (Kannada cinema), '''Mollywood''' (Malayalam cinema), and '''Pollywood''' (Punjabi cinema). As Indian cinema grows its global presence, so has Indian cinema tourism. Ardent fans visit famous shooting locations around the world, celebrity homes and other themed destinations. == Understand == [[File:Name of Ramoji Film City 01.jpg|thumb|Ramoji Film City, world's largest film studio]] Indian cinema is '''one of the world’s largest and most diverse film ecosystems''', producing thousands of movies each year across multiple languages and regional industries. For many travellers, cinema is more than entertainment — it’s a window into India’s cultures, landscapes, music, and storytelling traditions. From the glamour of Bollywood to the earthy realism of Malayalam cinema, each region offers its own cinematic identity, shaped by local history, language, and artistic sensibilities. Cinema tourism in India has '''grown rapidly''' as iconic film locations, studios, and shooting spots become destinations in their own right. Travellers can visit the bustling film sets of Mumbai, the lush backwaters of Kerala seen in Malayalam films, the grand forts and palaces featured in Telugu blockbusters, or the vibrant fields and villages that define Punjabi cinema. Many visitors also explore film museums, studio tours, and live TV show recordings to experience the industry from the inside. Indian films often blend music, dance, drama, and emotion in a way that reflects the country’s '''cultural diversity'''. Bollywood’s Hindi‑language productions are internationally recognised for their scale and spectacle, while Tollywood (Telugu) and Sandalwood (Kannada) have gained global attention through high‑energy action epics. Mollywood (Malayalam) is known for its realism and strong writing, and Pollywood (Punjabi) celebrates rural life, music, and diaspora stories. Watching films from different regions can help travellers understand the social themes, humour, and values that shape everyday life across India. For many visitors, exploring Indian cinema becomes a journey through the country itself — its cities, festivals, food, fashion, and traditions. Whether you’re touring a studio, attending a film festival, or simply watching a local blockbuster in a packed theatre, cinema offers a uniquely immersive way to experience India’s cultural heartbeat. == Watch == === Bollywood (Hindi) === ==== Films: ==== * Lagaan – Period sports drama set in colonial India. * 3 Idiots – Campus comedy‑drama with a strong emotional core. * Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge – Iconic romance with global appeal. * Gully Boy – Mumbai street‑rap coming‑of‑age story. * Queen – Solo‑travel empowerment tale. * Animal – Intense crime‑family drama known for its stylised action and bold themes. * Dhurandhar (Parts 1 & 2) – Action‑drama duology centred on power, rivalry, and high‑stakes conflict. ==== TV/Streaming series: ==== * Sacred Games – Mumbai crime thriller. * Made in Heaven – Drama set in Delhi’s wedding industry. * Panchayat – Light‑hearted rural comedy‑drama. * Delhi Crime – Police procedural based on real cases. * Rocket Boys – Biographical drama on India’s early space program. === Tollywood (Telugu) === ==== Films: ==== * Baahubali (Parts 1 & 2) – Epic fantasy action. * RRR – Blockbuster historical action drama. * Mahanati – Biopic of legendary actress Savitri. * Jersey – Emotional sports drama. * Eega – Fantasy revenge story with a unique twist. ==== TV/Streaming series: ==== * Unstoppable with NBK – Popular celebrity talk show. * Loser – Sports anthology drama. * Parampara – Crime‑family saga. * Vyavastha – Legal thriller. * Puli Meka – Crime investigation series. === Others === There are other major film industries with major films and TV series. ==Destinations== {{Mapframe}} ===Mumbai=== * {{see | name=Film City | alt=Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.1613 | long=72.8867 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3072027 | lastedit=2023-05-23 | content=The film studio complex that serves as the venue for many shootings has since 2014 started guided tours taking you to historical and live shooting sets. }} * {{see | name=National Museum of Indian Cinema | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cumballa Hill | lat=18.9703 | long=72.8088 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-28 | content=The museum houses artefacts, kiosks and digital sources of the history of Indian cinema. }} ===Rest of India=== * {{see | name=[[Lucknow]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=26.847 | long=80.947 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q47916 | lastedit=2023-10-12 | content=Lucknow has a huge influence in Bollywood. It is the birthplace of numerous actors and several Bollywood movies were shot in the city. }} * {{see | name=Noida Film City | alt= | url= | email= | address=[[Noida]], [[Uttar Pradesh]] | lat= | long= | directions=near [[Delhi]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7047594 | lastedit=2023-05-23 | content=A complex of film studios and film sets. It has been the location for many Bollywood and other Indian films outside Mumbai. }} * {{see | name=Prayag Film City | alt= | url=http://prayagfilmcity.net/ | email= | address=[[Chandrakona]], [[West Bengal]] | lat=22.7038 | long=87.32622 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7238987 | lastedit=2022-11-03 | content=The only dedicated film city in West Bengal. It has replicas of famous monuments. }} * {{see | name=Ramoji Film City | alt= | url=http://www.ramojifilmcity.com/ | email=Ramojifilmcity@hyderabadtourism.co | address=[[Ranga Reddy]], [[Telangana]] | lat=17.25583 | long=78.68242 | directions=near [[Hyderabad]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1786944 | lastedit=2023-05-23 | content=The largest film studio in the world with a film-themed park. It is modelled after [[Universal City]] in [[California]], United States. Many Telugu and Hindi films are produced here. The city encompasses massive buildings, gardens and other sets suitable for filming movies. Fans of Indian movies will find many locations where scenes from their favourite films were shot. }} * {{see | name=Tollygunge | alt= | url= | email= | address=[[Kolkata]], [[West Bengal]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3347281 | lastedit=2022-12-01 | content=The Hindi film industry was originally based in what was then known as Calcutta. The earliest superstars, including K.L. Saigal, Durga Khote, Kanan Devi and Prithviraj Kapoor established themselves in the films produced by the New Theatres (NT) film studio in Tollygunge during the 1930s. By the mid-1940s, the leading Hindi-speaking actors, writers and directors had shifted to Bombay but Tollygunge remained the fertile heartland of West Bengali cinema. }} * {{See|name=Kanteerava Studios, [[Bangalore]]|lat=13.0227|long=77.5327|lastedit=2026-04-06|content=A key production centre for Kannada cinema, Kanteerava Studios is known for its long association with legendary actors and filmmakers. Though less commercialised for tourism, it remains an important cultural site for fans of Sandalwood films.}} * {{Listing | type = see | name = [[Ooty]] | lat = 11.4134 | long = 76.6952 | content = A favorite for Tamil films, Ooty is known for its tea gardens and misty hills, making it a dreamy backdrop for many movies. | lastedit = 2026-04-06 }} * {{See|name=[[Jaipur]]|lat=26.91962|long=75.78781|lastedit=2026-04-06|content=Known for its royal palaces, and is the filming location of many Bollywood films.}} ===Rest of the world=== * {{see | name=[[Gstaad]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q37149 | lastedit=2021-09-28 | content=Many Bollywood blockbusters have been filmed at the mountain resort town in Switzerland such that Gstaad now has multiple [https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-au/experiences/bollywood-tour/ guided Bollywood tours] showing visitors the locations of famous film scenes. }} * {{See|name=[[London]]|lat=51.50735|long=-0.12776.|lastedit=2026-04-06|content=The UK is a major filming hub for Indian cinema, with London being the most frequently used international city. Landmarks such as Tower Bridge, Trafalgar Square, and the London Eye appear in numerous films. Scotland’s highlands and castles are also popular for romantic and action sequences. The UK’s large South Asian diaspora makes it a natural setting for stories about migration, identity, and family life.}} ==See also== *[[Indian classical music]] *[[Literary travel]] *[[Nigerian cinema]] *[[Turkish TV series tourism]] {{PartOfTopic|Fiction tourism|India}} {{outlinetopic}} hhyf2g1aodbke2by6zqnypgkwrgpfzk 5288887 5288866 2026-06-06T15:44:41Z Pashley 1822 /* */ 5288887 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} '''Indian cinema tourism''' refers to the Indian film industry, which consists of multiple 'woods'. The largest is '''Bollywood''', a portmanteau of the city of Mumbai's former name "Bombay" and "Hollywood". In fact it is the largest in the world by the number of feature films made each year, well ahead of Hollywood. Bollywood films are mostly in Hindi and, since Hindi and Urdu are quite similar as spoken languages, they are popular in Pakistan as well as in India. Other 'woods', smaller but still of significant size, include '''Tollywood''' (Telugu cinema), '''Sandalwood''' (Kannada cinema), '''Mollywood''' (Malayalam cinema), and '''Pollywood''' (Punjabi cinema). As Indian cinema grows its global presence, so has Indian cinema tourism. Ardent fans visit famous shooting locations around the world, celebrity homes and other themed destinations. == Understand == [[File:Name of Ramoji Film City 01.jpg|thumb|Ramoji Film City, world's largest film studio]] Indian cinema is '''one of the world’s largest and most diverse film ecosystems''', producing thousands of movies each year across multiple languages and regional industries. For many travellers, cinema is more than entertainment — it’s a window into India’s cultures, landscapes, music, and storytelling traditions. From the glamour of Bollywood to the earthy realism of Malayalam cinema, each region offers its own cinematic identity, shaped by local history, language, and artistic sensibilities. Cinema tourism in India has '''grown rapidly''' as iconic film locations, studios, and shooting spots become destinations in their own right. Travellers can visit the bustling film sets of Mumbai, the lush backwaters of Kerala seen in Malayalam films, the grand forts and palaces featured in Telugu blockbusters, or the vibrant fields and villages that define Punjabi cinema. Many visitors also explore film museums, studio tours, and live TV show recordings to experience the industry from the inside. Indian films often blend music, dance, drama, and emotion in a way that reflects the country’s '''cultural diversity'''. Bollywood’s Hindi‑language productions are internationally recognised for their scale and spectacle, while Tollywood (Telugu) and Sandalwood (Kannada) have gained global attention through high‑energy action epics. Mollywood (Malayalam) is known for its realism and strong writing, and Pollywood (Punjabi) celebrates rural life, music, and diaspora stories. Watching films from different regions can help travellers understand the social themes, humour, and values that shape everyday life across India. For many visitors, exploring Indian cinema becomes a journey through the country itself — its cities, festivals, food, fashion, and traditions. Whether you’re touring a studio, attending a film festival, or simply watching a local blockbuster in a packed theatre, cinema offers a uniquely immersive way to experience India’s cultural heartbeat. == Watch == === Bollywood (Hindi) === ==== Films: ==== * Lagaan – Period sports drama set in colonial India. * 3 Idiots – Campus comedy‑drama with a strong emotional core. * Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge – Iconic romance with global appeal. * Gully Boy – Mumbai street‑rap coming‑of‑age story. * Queen – Solo‑travel empowerment tale. * Animal – Intense crime‑family drama known for its stylised action and bold themes. * Dhurandhar (Parts 1 & 2) – Action‑drama duology centred on power, rivalry, and high‑stakes conflict. ==== TV/Streaming series: ==== * Sacred Games – Mumbai crime thriller. * Made in Heaven – Drama set in Delhi’s wedding industry. * Panchayat – Light‑hearted rural comedy‑drama. * Delhi Crime – Police procedural based on real cases. * Rocket Boys – Biographical drama on India’s early space program. === Tollywood (Telugu) === ==== Films: ==== * Baahubali (Parts 1 & 2) – Epic fantasy action. * RRR – Blockbuster historical action drama. * Mahanati – Biopic of legendary actress Savitri. * Jersey – Emotional sports drama. * Eega – Fantasy revenge story with a unique twist. ==== TV/Streaming series: ==== * Unstoppable with NBK – Popular celebrity talk show. * Loser – Sports anthology drama. * Parampara – Crime‑family saga. * Vyavastha – Legal thriller. * Puli Meka – Crime investigation series. === Others === There are other major film industries with major films and TV series. ==Destinations== {{Mapframe}} ===Mumbai=== * {{see | name=Film City | alt=Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.1613 | long=72.8867 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3072027 | lastedit=2023-05-23 | content=The film studio complex that serves as the venue for many shootings has since 2014 started guided tours taking you to historical and live shooting sets. }} * {{see | name=National Museum of Indian Cinema | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cumballa Hill | lat=18.9703 | long=72.8088 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-12-28 | content=The museum houses artefacts, kiosks and digital sources of the history of Indian cinema. }} ===Rest of India=== * {{see | name=[[Lucknow]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=26.847 | long=80.947 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q47916 | lastedit=2023-10-12 | content=Lucknow has a huge influence in Bollywood. It is the birthplace of numerous actors and several Bollywood movies were shot in the city. }} * {{see | name=Noida Film City | alt= | url= | email= | address=[[Noida]], [[Uttar Pradesh]] | lat= | long= | directions=near [[Delhi]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7047594 | lastedit=2023-05-23 | content=A complex of film studios and film sets. It has been the location for many Bollywood and other Indian films outside Mumbai. }} * {{see | name=Prayag Film City | alt= | url=http://prayagfilmcity.net/ | email= | address=[[Chandrakona]], [[West Bengal]] | lat=22.7038 | long=87.32622 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7238987 | lastedit=2022-11-03 | content=The only dedicated film city in West Bengal. It has replicas of famous monuments. }} * {{see | name=Ramoji Film City | alt= | url=http://www.ramojifilmcity.com/ | email=Ramojifilmcity@hyderabadtourism.co | address=[[Ranga Reddy]], [[Telangana]] | lat=17.25583 | long=78.68242 | directions=near [[Hyderabad]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1786944 | lastedit=2023-05-23 | content=The largest film studio in the world with a film-themed park. It is modelled after [[Universal City]] in [[California]], United States. Many Telugu and Hindi films are produced here. The city encompasses massive buildings, gardens and other sets suitable for filming movies. Fans of Indian movies will find many locations where scenes from their favourite films were shot. }} * {{see | name=Tollygunge | alt= | url= | email= | address=[[Kolkata]], [[West Bengal]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3347281 | lastedit=2022-12-01 | content=The Hindi film industry was originally based in what was then known as Calcutta. The earliest superstars, including K.L. Saigal, Durga Khote, Kanan Devi and Prithviraj Kapoor established themselves in the films produced by the New Theatres (NT) film studio in Tollygunge during the 1930s. By the mid-1940s, the leading Hindi-speaking actors, writers and directors had shifted to Bombay but Tollygunge remained the fertile heartland of West Bengali cinema. }} * {{See|name=Kanteerava Studios, [[Bangalore]]|lat=13.0227|long=77.5327|lastedit=2026-04-06|content=A key production centre for Kannada cinema, Kanteerava Studios is known for its long association with legendary actors and filmmakers. Though less commercialised for tourism, it remains an important cultural site for fans of Sandalwood films.}} * {{Listing | type = see | name = [[Ooty]] | lat = 11.4134 | long = 76.6952 | content = A favorite for Tamil films, Ooty is known for its tea gardens and misty hills, making it a dreamy backdrop for many movies. | lastedit = 2026-04-06 }} * {{See|name=[[Jaipur]]|lat=26.91962|long=75.78781|lastedit=2026-04-06|content=Known for its royal palaces, and is the filming location of many Bollywood films.}} ===Rest of the world=== * {{see | name=[[Gstaad]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q37149 | lastedit=2021-09-28 | content=Many Bollywood blockbusters have been filmed at the mountain resort town in Switzerland such that Gstaad now has multiple [https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-au/experiences/bollywood-tour/ guided Bollywood tours] showing visitors the locations of famous film scenes. }} * {{See|name=[[London]]|lat=51.50735|long=-0.12776.|lastedit=2026-04-06|content=The UK is a major filming hub for Indian cinema, with London being the most frequently used international city. Landmarks such as Tower Bridge, Trafalgar Square, and the London Eye appear in numerous films. Scotland’s highlands and castles are also popular for romantic and action sequences. The UK’s large South Asian diaspora makes it a natural setting for stories about migration, identity, and family life.}} ==See also== *[[Indian classical music]] *[[Literary travel]] *[[Nigerian cinema]] *[[Turkish TV series tourism]] {{PartOfTopic|Fiction tourism|India}} {{outlinetopic}} 3fsfx8rrgf7sa74fcrbzod2sgc20ufy 0 183679 5288977 4808447 2026-06-07T04:13:09Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5288977 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''Limoux''' is in [[Aude]] in the south of France. The town has been known since the 16th century for the production of a renowned sparkling wine, blanquette de Limoux. This sparkling wine from Languedoc, which plays a major part in the city's economy, benefits from a protected designation of origin (PDO) classification. The city is also the site of a carnival which lasts several months. == Understand == Limoux is a little town of more than 10,000 inhabitants (2021). You will find a lot of things to do. It's a very cute town with its history. == Get in == To get to Limoux, you can take the train because there is the Flassian train station or the bus. But you can go by car too, of course, or bicycle. * {{go | name=Limoux railway station | alt=Gare de Limoux | url= | email= | address=7, Avenue de la Gare | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2020955 | lastedit=2023-06-03 | content= }} == Get around == {{mapframe}} == See == * {{see | name=Church of Saint Martin | alt=Église Saint-Martin de Limoux | url= | email= | address=Pl. du Presbytère | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3582840 | lastedit=2023-06-03 | content=The city's main church, built in the 12th century. }} * {{see | name=Basilica of Notre-Dame de Marceille | alt=Basilique Notre-Dame de Marceille | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2886948 | lastedit=2023-06-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Pont-Neuf | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3396333 | lastedit=2023-06-03 | content=The historic bridge across river Aude, built in 1329. The bridge is pedestrian-only and is a great place to enjoy views of the city. }} == Do == * '''Rugby league:''' [https://13-limouxin.fr/ Limoux Grizzlies]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} play in Elite 1, the top French tier for 13-a-side rugby. Their home ground is Stade de l'Aiguille (capacity 5000) 1 km north of town centre. The playing season is Sept-April. == Buy == == Eat == == Drink == You can't go to Limoux without tasting one of the wines of Limoux or the iconic sparkling wine ("blanquette"), that you can find in the shop [https://www.sieurdarques.com/index.cfm "Sieur d'Arques"]. == Sleep == If you search for a place where you can sleep, the "Logis Modern et pigeon" is here. It's the most chic hotel in Limoux, it has a "Art-Deco" famous and a gastronomic restaurant (04 68 31 00 25). There are not a lot of hotels in Limoux; what you will find especially are the guest rooms or apartments like "Lovely Limoux". == Connect == == Go next == {{IsPartOf|Aude}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|43.056944|2.218611|zoom=13}} orvtoka9jfmbwkk6ydi0izhqm6ifmgt 4 187368 5289015 5142039 2026-06-07T08:21:34Z SHB2000 2248002 + 5289015 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ {{essay}} {{shortcut|[[WV:Lines]]}} A simple guide to getting a line marker for an itinerary. Such examples where it can be seen are [[Quebec Route 389]], [[Stuart Highway]], [[Oxley Highway]], [[E8 through Finland and Norway]], [[Tourist Drive 33]] or [[Trans-Labrador Highway]]. This can also be used for getting hiking trails on a map, as seen in pages such as [[Mungo National Park]]. If you're having difficulties or having issues with the line markers, see the [[#Troubleshooting|troubleshooting]] section. This is needed if the itinerary route doesn't exist at OpenStreetMap, or linking is too much of a hassle for your needs. Often the route should be moved to Wikimedia Commons' data: namespace, but that step is not covered here, and it can be handled later. ==Getting it up== ===Step 1=== You will need to go to [http://geojson.io/#map=2/20.0/0.0 geojson.io] and then use the line tool on the right in the map frame. Then map out your route and click the last point to finish your line off. Be aware that this can take a really long time though, but the result pays the price. '''Do not close the tab'''. Keep it open, as it'll be needed for step 4. ===Step 2=== To add the map, insert the following code in the article, where you want your map: <br> <code><nowiki>{{mapframe}}</nowiki></code> Add any parameters from {{tl|mapframe}}, if you want some tailoring. ===Step 3=== Go to the very bottom of the article, below everything, add the following code in: <pre> <maplink text="" latitude="" longitude="" zoom="6" group="route1" class="no-icon"> </maplink> </pre> Fill the latitude and longitude in. If you want it to autoalign, then simply remove those words, and it'll look something like this: <pre> <maplink text="" zoom="6" group="route1" class="no-icon"> Your .json code will go here, replacing this line </maplink> </pre> Keep the <code>text=""</code> like it is, and do not enter anything into it. Adjust the zoom if you wish, although it's the zoom on {{tlx|mapframe}} that will matter. ===Step 4=== Now paste the json code that you've drawn on geojson.io between the maplinks. Basically something like <pre> <maplink text="" zoom="6" group="route1" class="no-icon"> Your .json code will go here, replacing this line </maplink> </pre> So an example of it would look like: <syntaxhighlight> <maplink text="" zoom="6" group="route1" class="no-icon"> { "type": "FeatureCollection", "features": [ { "type": "Feature", "properties": {}, "geometry": { "type": "LineString", "coordinates": [ [ 146.0481262207031, -34.29977008293614 ], [ 146.0295867919922, -34.37177843543121 ], [ 146.0460662841797, -34.376879043519054 ], [ 146.03370666503903, -34.450519835492656 ], [ 146.0131072998047, -34.46976903546482 ], [ 145.99937438964844, -34.5478525606475 ] ] } } ] } </maplink> </syntaxhighlight> Then, you should all be done and your map should be showing the line. ==Branching routes== If there is a branch on your route, then you need one more line. You may note that <code><nowiki>"features": [</nowiki></code> is plural. The "[" starts a (comma separated) list and the first "{" after it starts the first line (or whatever). You can just plot your next line at geojson.io to get both lines at the same time and paste them in as if you had just one line. If you already closed your geojson.io window, you can go to the site again, paste in your code into the json window and then plot the second line. The other option is to copy just the code that pertains to the second line, and make sure you get the "{"s, "["s, commas and line headers right. You might also want to add a comment on what each line is about; comments in the json code start with double slash ("//") and extend to the end of the code line. In some cases you want two separate routes. Then do as with the first line, adding a new &lt;maplink ... >&lt;/maplink> section, with <code>group="route2"</code> instead of <code>group="route1"</code>. In the full screen map window you will now have route1 and route2 as separate layers, which can be activated and deactivated separately. As default up to five separate routes can be added. If you have more, or they have names (specified in group="name") other than the standard ones, you need to add the <code>show=</code> parameter to the mapframe: <code>show={{tl|maplayers}},route6,route7</code> (the template adds the standard routes and markers). If you want your lines colour coded, add that property into the <code>"properties": {}</code>, e.g. as <code>"properties": {"stroke": "#00FF00"},</code> for a green line. The 00FF00 are the RGB values in hexadecimal: here 00 for red, FF for green and 00 for blue. If you're unsure which colour to use, simply google up "hex color picker" and where you'll then be able to choose a colour. Note that sometimes typing up the Commonwealth spelling of "hex colour picker" may not always provide results. ===Duplicate routes=== Like branching routes, you'll also need more than one line if you need to duplicate your route (e.g. if the route goes on a freeway or a divided highway). Whilst there may not be much of a difference at first, it's ''very'' noticeable when you zoom in. See [[User:SHB2000/Getting a line on an itinerary/1]] for an example of how a duplicated route would look like. ==Troubleshooting== ===Q: I'm getting a red box that says the following=== <nowiki> <maplink> problems:</nowiki> * Attribute "latitude" has an invalid value * Attribute "longitude" has an invalid value '''A:''' Your <nowiki><maplink></nowiki> would probably have something like this: <nowiki><maplink text="" latitude="" longitude="" zoom="6" group="route1" class="no-icon"> </nowiki> Remove the latitude and longitude. ===Q: It is complaining about json syntax=== '''A:''' If the route doesn't display, there is usually red text below the map or above the edit window (after the page preview), which complains about invalid json syntax. It is easy to mess up the braces and commas on editing the json. Perhaps what you pasted wasn't the complete json code. Look at the start and end and any point you have edited and look for a missing or superfluous comma, odd indentation steps or any other irregularity. For the braces, the easiest way is to just copy the start or end of the code from your geojson.io code window, or from above, and replace whatever might be faulty. If you really need help, simply ask at the pub, and someone may be able to spot the error. ===Q:Help! The markers have disappeared=== '''A:''' It is likely that the map uses the following code: <code><nowiki>{{mapframe|zoom=|height=|width=|layer=|staticmap=|align=|name=|show=city,route1,route2,route3,route4}}</nowiki></code>. For this to work, the other markers should be mentioned along city,route1,... Easier to use the default, without the show parameter. Mostly it will be enough with <code><nowiki>{{mapframe}}</nowiki></code> without anything. ===Q: Does this work on toggleable maps?=== '''A:''' It should. However, toggleable maps mean that you don't have the option to add any more values apart from route1,route2 etc. Since that's the case, then use <code>group="route1"</code> for all the maplines that you add. If you do wish to categorise it, use invisible text (<nowiki><!-- and --></nowiki>) ===Q: It just doesn't work=== '''A:''' If any more help is needed then just bring up the issue on the pub and someone will eventually find the issue. Try to explain clearly what you are trying to do and what specifically doesn't work. ==See also== * [[mw:Help:Extension:Kartographer]] jsit6sffpiyrapg3e6timszz9icwq3g 5289017 5289015 2026-06-07T08:22:32Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Q: I'm getting a red box that says the following */ 5289017 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ {{essay}} {{shortcut|[[WV:Lines]]}} A simple guide to getting a line marker for an itinerary. Such examples where it can be seen are [[Quebec Route 389]], [[Stuart Highway]], [[Oxley Highway]], [[E8 through Finland and Norway]], [[Tourist Drive 33]] or [[Trans-Labrador Highway]]. This can also be used for getting hiking trails on a map, as seen in pages such as [[Mungo National Park]]. If you're having difficulties or having issues with the line markers, see the [[#Troubleshooting|troubleshooting]] section. This is needed if the itinerary route doesn't exist at OpenStreetMap, or linking is too much of a hassle for your needs. Often the route should be moved to Wikimedia Commons' data: namespace, but that step is not covered here, and it can be handled later. ==Getting it up== ===Step 1=== You will need to go to [http://geojson.io/#map=2/20.0/0.0 geojson.io] and then use the line tool on the right in the map frame. Then map out your route and click the last point to finish your line off. Be aware that this can take a really long time though, but the result pays the price. '''Do not close the tab'''. Keep it open, as it'll be needed for step 4. ===Step 2=== To add the map, insert the following code in the article, where you want your map: <br> <code><nowiki>{{mapframe}}</nowiki></code> Add any parameters from {{tl|mapframe}}, if you want some tailoring. ===Step 3=== Go to the very bottom of the article, below everything, add the following code in: <pre> <maplink text="" latitude="" longitude="" zoom="6" group="route1" class="no-icon"> </maplink> </pre> Fill the latitude and longitude in. If you want it to autoalign, then simply remove those words, and it'll look something like this: <pre> <maplink text="" zoom="6" group="route1" class="no-icon"> Your .json code will go here, replacing this line </maplink> </pre> Keep the <code>text=""</code> like it is, and do not enter anything into it. Adjust the zoom if you wish, although it's the zoom on {{tlx|mapframe}} that will matter. ===Step 4=== Now paste the json code that you've drawn on geojson.io between the maplinks. Basically something like <pre> <maplink text="" zoom="6" group="route1" class="no-icon"> Your .json code will go here, replacing this line </maplink> </pre> So an example of it would look like: <syntaxhighlight> <maplink text="" zoom="6" group="route1" class="no-icon"> { "type": "FeatureCollection", "features": [ { "type": "Feature", "properties": {}, "geometry": { "type": "LineString", "coordinates": [ [ 146.0481262207031, -34.29977008293614 ], [ 146.0295867919922, -34.37177843543121 ], [ 146.0460662841797, -34.376879043519054 ], [ 146.03370666503903, -34.450519835492656 ], [ 146.0131072998047, -34.46976903546482 ], [ 145.99937438964844, -34.5478525606475 ] ] } } ] } </maplink> </syntaxhighlight> Then, you should all be done and your map should be showing the line. ==Branching routes== If there is a branch on your route, then you need one more line. You may note that <code><nowiki>"features": [</nowiki></code> is plural. The "[" starts a (comma separated) list and the first "{" after it starts the first line (or whatever). You can just plot your next line at geojson.io to get both lines at the same time and paste them in as if you had just one line. If you already closed your geojson.io window, you can go to the site again, paste in your code into the json window and then plot the second line. The other option is to copy just the code that pertains to the second line, and make sure you get the "{"s, "["s, commas and line headers right. You might also want to add a comment on what each line is about; comments in the json code start with double slash ("//") and extend to the end of the code line. In some cases you want two separate routes. Then do as with the first line, adding a new &lt;maplink ... >&lt;/maplink> section, with <code>group="route2"</code> instead of <code>group="route1"</code>. In the full screen map window you will now have route1 and route2 as separate layers, which can be activated and deactivated separately. As default up to five separate routes can be added. If you have more, or they have names (specified in group="name") other than the standard ones, you need to add the <code>show=</code> parameter to the mapframe: <code>show={{tl|maplayers}},route6,route7</code> (the template adds the standard routes and markers). If you want your lines colour coded, add that property into the <code>"properties": {}</code>, e.g. as <code>"properties": {"stroke": "#00FF00"},</code> for a green line. The 00FF00 are the RGB values in hexadecimal: here 00 for red, FF for green and 00 for blue. If you're unsure which colour to use, simply google up "hex color picker" and where you'll then be able to choose a colour. Note that sometimes typing up the Commonwealth spelling of "hex colour picker" may not always provide results. ===Duplicate routes=== Like branching routes, you'll also need more than one line if you need to duplicate your route (e.g. if the route goes on a freeway or a divided highway). Whilst there may not be much of a difference at first, it's ''very'' noticeable when you zoom in. See [[User:SHB2000/Getting a line on an itinerary/1]] for an example of how a duplicated route would look like. ==Troubleshooting== ===Q: I'm getting a red box that says the following=== <nowiki> <maplink> problems:</nowiki> * Attribute "latitude" has an invalid value * Attribute "longitude" has an invalid value '''A:''' Your <nowiki><maplink></nowiki> would probably have something like this: <nowiki><maplink text="" latitude="" longitude="" zoom="6" group="route1" class="no-icon"> </nowiki>. Removing the latitude and longitude fields entirely will get rid of that error. ===Q: It is complaining about json syntax=== '''A:''' If the route doesn't display, there is usually red text below the map or above the edit window (after the page preview), which complains about invalid json syntax. It is easy to mess up the braces and commas on editing the json. Perhaps what you pasted wasn't the complete json code. Look at the start and end and any point you have edited and look for a missing or superfluous comma, odd indentation steps or any other irregularity. For the braces, the easiest way is to just copy the start or end of the code from your geojson.io code window, or from above, and replace whatever might be faulty. If you really need help, simply ask at the pub, and someone may be able to spot the error. ===Q:Help! The markers have disappeared=== '''A:''' It is likely that the map uses the following code: <code><nowiki>{{mapframe|zoom=|height=|width=|layer=|staticmap=|align=|name=|show=city,route1,route2,route3,route4}}</nowiki></code>. For this to work, the other markers should be mentioned along city,route1,... Easier to use the default, without the show parameter. Mostly it will be enough with <code><nowiki>{{mapframe}}</nowiki></code> without anything. ===Q: Does this work on toggleable maps?=== '''A:''' It should. However, toggleable maps mean that you don't have the option to add any more values apart from route1,route2 etc. Since that's the case, then use <code>group="route1"</code> for all the maplines that you add. If you do wish to categorise it, use invisible text (<nowiki><!-- and --></nowiki>) ===Q: It just doesn't work=== '''A:''' If any more help is needed then just bring up the issue on the pub and someone will eventually find the issue. Try to explain clearly what you are trying to do and what specifically doesn't work. ==See also== * [[mw:Help:Extension:Kartographer]] 0yb05b46i44j2n93t1r0kxj89nolw6s 0 189315 5288962 5154128 2026-06-07T02:28:55Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5288962 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lavras banner.jpg|pgname=Lavras}} '''Lavras''' is a town in [[South (Minas Gerais)|Southern Minas Gerais]]. ==Understand== Lavras means 'mines' in Portuguese. Located at the Green Valley and Waterfalls tourist circuit, it is also near Waters circuit – a series of spas in the state of São Paulo and Minas Gerais – and the Inconfidentes Trail circuit – a historical region of Minas. The construction of the Funil Hydroelectric Plant was completed in 2002, which changed the countryside by the dam's formed lake. Located at an altitude of 920 m, it has a population of 105,000 inhabitants (2020). ==Get in== From Belo Horizonte the intercity bus ''Expresso Gardenia'' lets you join the ride for R$95 (Dec 2021), ''Buser'' for R$60 (Dec 2021). Blablacar rides are for around R$55 (Dec 2021). ==Get around== ==See== Lavras is part of the Vale Verde and Quedas D'Água tourist circuit. In addition to the cultural options offered by museums, theaters and local university campuses, the following places are considered tourist attractions: *'''Cachoeira dos Ipês''' (located in the Cruzes stream): has an exuberant fall and surroundings and is just 13 km from the city center *'''Comunidade do Funil''': community formed in 2000, after the flooding of the Usina do Funil lake *'''Serra da Bocaina''': high point of the municipality, from where you can have a broad view of the region. Depending on the visibility, it is possible to see the city of São Thomé das Letras, Luminárias, São Bento Abade, Ijaci and other neighboring cities; *'''Jardim Campestre green area''': woods close to the Jardim Glória and Campestre I, II and III neighborhoods, on the way to becoming an Ecological Park Buildings in the central region *'''Nossa Senhora do Rosário Church (Lavras)''': built between 1751 and 1754 and known as Matriz de Sant'Ana until 1917. It was listed by the National Institute of Historical Heritage in 1948 *'''Bi Moreira Museum''' : located on the historic campus of the Federal University of Lavras, it was inaugurated in 1983, safeguarding the historic collection of the municipality of Lavras *'''Natural History Museum''': also located on the historic campus of UFLA, opened in 2001 *'''Train stations''': Midwest (North Zone) and Costa Pinto (South Zone) *'''Baldwin Locomotive''' : popularly called " Maria-Smoke ", which took passengers from 1929 to 1969, exhibited at Praça Doutor José Esteves, near the Railway Station and warehouses of the former RFFSA ) *'''Praça Dr. Augusto Silva''': large green area in the center of Lavras, this municipal garden was inaugurated in 1908 *'''Obelisk at Praça Leonardo Venerando Pereira''': erected in 1944, it is a geographical landmark and a monument dedicated to Lavrense youth; *'''House of Culture''' : building from 1849, located at Rua Sant'Ana, it used to be the seat of the city of Lavras; *'''Cachoeira do Faria''': waterfall that is close to the Bocaina mountain range *'''Capivari River''' : a watercourse that rises in the Serra da Chapada das Perdizes, in Carrancas , and flows into the Rio Grande . *'''Dam Lake and Funil''' Hydroelectric Power Plant. *'''Sant'Ana Mother Church (Lavras) ''': built between 1904 and 1917, the city's main Catholic church *'''Trilha das Lagoas''', a self-guided trail at the Federal University of Lavras. ==Do== *'''Quedas do Rio Bonito Ecological Park''' : forest reserve maintained by the Abraham Kasinski Association . The park area comprises many attractions, such as waterfalls, hiking trails and arena, pedal boats, natural pools, toboggan, restaurant, lookout, waterfall, zip line, tree climbing circuit and playground. ==Buy== Crafts Fair - on Sundays at Praça Dr. Augusto Silva == Eat == *Restaurante Anttares *Restaurante da Thaís *Restaurante Pickles ==Drink == *Bar do Custódio - Rua Doutor Melo Viana, 180 - comidinha di buteco *Bar do Gilvan ==Sleep == *Cama e Café Hotel [http://www.camaecafehotel.com.br/]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} *Lavras Apart Hotel *Vitória Palace [http://www.vitoriapalace.com.br/] *Serema Palace Hotel *Hotel Ipê ==Go next== ==== in the east: ==== *'''[[São João del Rei]]''' – 90 km. It is the largest of the colonial mining towns in Minas Gerais. There is a steam locomotive to the nearby town of Tiradentes. The intercity bus ''Viação São Cristóvão'' goes directly for R$40 (Dec 2021). *'''[[Juiz de Fora]]''' – 250 km. The presence of immigrants – especially from Portugal, Italy, Germany, Syria and Lebanon and more recently China – throughout its history has given the city a cosmopolitan spirit and diverse cuisine. It's a gay-friendly city. It's nickname is "Manchester Mineira". The bus of ''Transur'' goes twice a week for R$96 (Dec 2021). Otherwise you go first to São João del Rei and change the bus there. From Juiz de Fora further to [[Petrópolis]]. ==== in the north-east: ==== *'''[[Divinópolis]]''' – 170 km. The highlights are the Lake of Roses and the beach at Carmo do Cajuru. ''Viação Christóvão'' has direct rides for R$64 (Dec 2021). *'''[[Belo Horizonte]]''' {{IsPartOf|Southern Minas Gerais}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|-21.245|-45}} 927vu3cs9z7elgsox3s9xbfeoa37g1v 2 194149 5289036 5225300 2026-06-07T10:34:55Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Australia */ 5289036 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Driving in Tasmania banner.jpg|pgname=SHB2000's create list}}<!--Diamonds Thudufushi Beach and Water Villas, May 2017 -03 (cropped).jpg--> ===Algeria=== * [[El Oued]] ([[w:El Oued|Wikipedia]]) ===Antarctica=== * [[Buromskiy Island]] ([[w:Buromskiy Island|Wikipedia]]) – possibly, if it doesn't break the structure * [[Galindez Island]] ([[w:Galindez Island|Wikipedia]]) ===Argentina=== * [[Gaiman]] ([[w:Gaiman, Chubut|Wikipedia]]) and other towns listed on [[w:Y Wladfa]]. Who knew Argentina had Welsh-speaking towns? ===Australia=== * [[Black Spur Drive]] ([[w:Black Spur|Wikipedia]]) – Victoria's most scenic highway (more scenic than [[GOR]]) * [[Girringun National Park]] ([[w:Girringun National Park|Wikipedia]] • [https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/girringun official website]) * [[Mataranka]] * [[Wooroonooran National Park]] ([[w:Wooroonooran National Park|Wikipedia]] • [https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/wooroonooran official website]) – I'm surprised that Australia's tallest waterfall doesn't have any mention on Wikivoyage * [[User:SHB2000/TAS]] and [[User:SHB2000/NSW]] ===Belgium=== * [[Brussels Airport]] ([[:fr:Aéroport de Bruxelles-National]]) ===Brazil=== * [[Saint Peter and Saint Paul Archipelago]] ([[w:Saint Peter and Saint Paul Archipelago|Wikipedia]]) * [[Trindade and Martim Vaz]] ([[w:Trindade and Martim Vaz|Wikipedia]]) ===Bolivia=== * [[Amboró National Park]] ([[w:Amboró National Park|Wikipedia]]) * [[Tunari National Park]] ([[w:Tunari National Park|Wikipedia]]) ===Bulgaria=== * [[Rila National Park]] ([[w:Rila National Park|Wikipedia]]) ===Canada=== * all the redlinks in [[Nunavik]] and [[Northern Quebec]] * [[Cabot Trail]] – a 298-kilometre scenic highway in [[Cape Breton Island]], Nova Scotia ===Chile=== * [[Yendegaia National Park]] ([[w:Yendegaia National Park|Wikipedia]]) * [[w:List of national parks of Chile]] ===Denmark=== <h4>Greenland</h4> * [[Arctic Circle Trail]] ([https://visitgreenland.com/things-to-do/arctic-circle-trail/ website] • [https://expertvagabond.com/arctic-circle-trail-greenland/ from a hiker]) * [[Maniitsoq]] ([[w:Maniitsoq|Wikipedia]]) * [[Qeqertarsuaq]] ([[w:Qeqertarsuaq|Wikipedia]]) – a rather unique uni town * [[Paamiut]] ([[w:Paamiut|Wikipedia]]) * [[Scoresby Sound]] ([[w:Scoresby Sound|Wikipedia]]) * [[Kangaatsiaq]] ([[w:Kangaatsiaq|Wikipedia]]) * [[Kuummiut]] ([https://visitgreenland.com/destinations/kuummiut/ official tourism website]) ===Fiji=== * [[Nasinu]] ([[w:Nasinu|Wikipedia]]) ===Finland=== * A few of the redlinks on [[Finnish national parks]] ===France=== * [[Blagnac]] ([[w:Blagnac|Wikipedia]]) * [[Salvation Islands]] ([[w:Salvation Islands|Wikipedia]]) ===Georgia=== * [[Kolkheti National Park]] ([[w:Kolkheti National Park|Wikipedia]]) * Some [[w:National parks of Georgia (country)|national parks of Georgia]] ===Germany=== * [[Büsingen am Hochrhein]] ([[w:Büsingen am Hochrhein|Wikipedia]]) ===Greece=== * [[Monemvasia]] ([[w:Monemvasia|Wikipedia]]) ===Indonesia=== * [[Cenderawasih Bay National Park]] ([[w:Teluk Cenderawasih National Park|Wikipedia]] • [https://telukcenderawasihnationalpark.com/ park website]) ===Ireland=== * [[Killarney National Park]] ([[w:Killarney National Park|Wikipedia]]) ===Kazakhstan=== * [[Altyn-Emel National Park]] ([[w:Altyn-Emel National Park|Wikipedia]]) * [[Bozjyra]] * [[Koshkar-Ata]] ([[w:Koshkar-Ata (lake)|Wikipedia]]) ===Madagascar=== * [[Montagne d'Ambre National Park]] ([[w:en:Montagne d'Ambre National Park|Wikipedia (en)]] • [[w:fr:Parc national de la Montagne d'Ambre|Wikipedia (fr)]] • [https://www.parcs-madagascar.com/parcs/montagne%20d%20ambre.php park website]) * [[Namoroka National Park]] ([[w:Namoroka National Park|Wikipedia]]) * [[w:Protected areas of Madagascar]] ===New Zealand=== * [[State Highway 6]] ([[w:State Highway 6 (New Zealand)|Wikipedia]]) ** see [[User:SHB2000/SH6]] ===Norway=== * [[Folgefonna National Park]] ([[w:Folgefonna National Park|Wikipedia]]) * [[Seiland]] ([[w:Seiland|Wikipedia]] • [https://seilandnasjonalpark.no/en/]) ===Oman=== * [[Ad Dimaniyat Islands]] ([[d:Q3019342|Wikidata]]) ===Peru=== * [[Ausangate]] ([[w:Ausangate|Wikipedia]]) ===Slovenia=== * [[Cerkno]] ([[w:sl:Cerkno|Wikipedia]]) ===Spain=== * [[Timanfaya National Park]] ([[w:Timanfaya National Park|Wikipedia]]) * [[Sierra Nevada National Park (Spain)]] ([[w:Sierra Nevada National Park (Spain)|Wikipedia]]) ===United States=== * [[Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area]] ([[w:Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area|Wikipedia]]) * [[Interstate 70]] – this has to be the most beautiful freeway I've ever seen * [[Royal Gorge]] ([[w:Royal Gorge|Wikipedia]]) * [[Sloan]] ([[w:Sloan, Nevada|Wikipedia]]) <h4>American Samoa</h4> * [[Tafuna]] ([[w:Tafuna, American Samoa|Wikipedia]]) ===Travel topics=== * [[Oceanic wildlife]] * [[Driving in Tasmania]] * [[Ice caves]] (saw a photo of Baden, CH – they really do look cool) 67aufqv9jt63xcbsqxzjjj67ghuuocn 3 200157 5288869 4969509 2026-06-06T13:54:58Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Block summaries */ new section 5288869 wikitext text/x-wiki == Your user page == Hi, WikiBayer, I semiprotected your userpage to prevent it being a vandal-haven – I hope that's all right with you. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 22:05, 27 July 2023 (UTC) : The vandalism was repeating. I deleted similar rubbish a few hours before you took it out again. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 11:17, 28 July 2023 (UTC) == Block summaries == Hi, WikiBayer, appreciate you dealing with the [[Special:Contributions/BloFinReferralCode|recent spam]], but can you ''please'' stick to using established block summaries (especially when long-term abuse exists as an dropdown option). This isn't the first time you've been told this, and I hope this will be the last. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:54, 6 June 2026 (UTC) 5pkt8he2pxw0pywbhcrcvbd5qeqvzqf 5288882 5288869 2026-06-06T15:12:48Z WikiBayer 1579383 /* Block summaries */ Reply 5288882 wikitext text/x-wiki == Your user page == Hi, WikiBayer, I semiprotected your userpage to prevent it being a vandal-haven – I hope that's all right with you. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 22:05, 27 July 2023 (UTC) : The vandalism was repeating. I deleted similar rubbish a few hours before you took it out again. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 11:17, 28 July 2023 (UTC) == Block summaries == Hi, WikiBayer, appreciate you dealing with the [[Special:Contributions/BloFinReferralCode|recent spam]], but can you ''please'' stick to using established block summaries (especially when long-term abuse exists as an dropdown option). This isn't the first time you've been told this, and I hope this will be the last. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:54, 6 June 2026 (UTC) :@[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] May I ask what the problem is with the Reason "Interference"? I deliberately did not select „spam“ as the reason, since the troll is possibly not interested in the advertisement but rather in interfering with the project. I don't see any differencebetween „abuse“ and „interference“, except that one refers to the misuse itself and the other to the result of the misuse. [[User:WikiBayer|WikiBayer]] ([[User talk:WikiBayer|talk]]) 15:12, 6 June 2026 (UTC) 98ujnw7g4mwp70kf98nauipxjkmcqgf 5288946 5288882 2026-06-06T23:00:35Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Block summaries */ Reply 5288946 wikitext text/x-wiki == Your user page == Hi, WikiBayer, I semiprotected your userpage to prevent it being a vandal-haven – I hope that's all right with you. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 22:05, 27 July 2023 (UTC) : The vandalism was repeating. I deleted similar rubbish a few hours before you took it out again. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 11:17, 28 July 2023 (UTC) == Block summaries == Hi, WikiBayer, appreciate you dealing with the [[Special:Contributions/BloFinReferralCode|recent spam]], but can you ''please'' stick to using established block summaries (especially when long-term abuse exists as an dropdown option). This isn't the first time you've been told this, and I hope this will be the last. //<span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:54, 6 June 2026 (UTC) :@[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] May I ask what the problem is with the Reason "Interference"? I deliberately did not select „spam“ as the reason, since the troll is possibly not interested in the advertisement but rather in interfering with the project. I don't see any differencebetween „abuse“ and „interference“, except that one refers to the misuse itself and the other to the result of the misuse. [[User:WikiBayer|WikiBayer]] ([[User talk:WikiBayer|talk]]) 15:12, 6 June 2026 (UTC) ::Block summaries are supposed to be easy-to-read for ''others'' – long-term interference is not at all anywhere near as much of a well-established term as long-term abuse. What's with you and refusing to call LTAs as LTAs anyway? <span style="font-family:Helvetica Neue; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 200">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:00, 6 June 2026 (UTC) 6rentqfypfa90q5g97iq44op1dmkm6o 0 203020 5288853 5048271 2026-06-06T13:29:49Z Borgenland 2282829 /* Get around */ 5288853 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''Binmaley''' is a municipality of 89,000 people (2020). Binmaley is the seafood capital of [[Pangasinan]]. ==Understand== The town is famous for its ''bangus'' (milkfish) aqua-culture, because of its many fishponds (''pokok'' in the Pangasinan language). However, because of constant siltation from mine tailings upstream from Agno River (due to mine operations in neighboring Benguet Province), and the overuse of artificial fish feeds, the bangus industry has suffered from fishkill, fewer viable fishponds and lower harvests. As a result, many formerly productive fishponds have been converted into large commercial and residential lots. This phenomenon is beginning to seriously threaten the unique Binmaley fishpond industry. ==Get in== '''By bus''' From Manila, you can take [https://victoryliner.com/ Victory Liner] buses from their Pasay and Cubao terminals. '''By jeep''' From Dagupan or Lingayen there are Jeepneys available from 4:30AM to 8PM. ==Get around== {{Mapframe}} ==See== * {{see | name=Binmaley Museum | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/BinmaleyMuseum/ | email= | address= | lat=16.028775 | long=120.269000 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} * {{see | name=Our Lady of Purification Parish Church - Binmaley, Pangasinan (Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan) | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Our-Lady-of-Purification-Church-Binmaley-Pangasinan/195996303858836 | email= | address= | lat=16.029640 | long=120.266200 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-F 5:30AM–noon, 3–5PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} ==Do== * {{do | name=PSU Binmaley Campus | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/psubinmaleyofficial/ | email= | address= | lat=16.039634 | long=120.269089 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Binmaley Public Market | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.027672 | long=120.266663 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} * {{buy | name=101 Minimart | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/101Minimart | email= | address= Dagupan - Binmaley Rd | lat=16.014563 | long=120.309782 | directions= | phone=+63 929 755 1688 | tollfree= | hours=7AM - 7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-11 | content= }} * {{buy | name=7-Eleven Convenience Store | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rizal Street | lat=16.027977 | long=120.260765 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open 24 hours | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{buy | name=7- Eleven | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.022741 | long=120.267218 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Magic Binmaley | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.02815 | long=120.269007 | directions= | phone=+63 755400098 | tollfree= | hours=8AM–7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Sigay Fiestahan - Buffet of the North | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/SIGAY-Fiestahan-in-Binmaley-Pangasinan-Buffet-of-the-North/100057527646652/ | email= | address= | lat=16.022458 | long=120.274620 | directions= | phone=+63 9105440325 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content=Very spacious place, great place to eat, good for wedding receptions, birthday parties and reunions. }} * {{eat | name=Tim's Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lomboy after Petron | lat=16.013460 | long=120.258784 | directions= | phone=+63 9224780427 | tollfree= | hours=8AM–9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rudy Jing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.015285 | long=120.261165 | directions= | phone=+63 9164509794 | tollfree= | hours=6:30AM–9:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Gene's Eatery 4.4 (16) | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/geneseatery | email= | address= | lat=16.010758 | long=120.257352 | directions= | phone=+63 917 116 4789 | tollfree= | hours=9AM - 8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Goat Ka | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/lagoatka | email= | address=Biec W | lat=16.019746 | long=120.268445 | directions= | phone=+63 931 029 3446 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–7 PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rufina's A Taste of Home | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dagupan - Binmaley Rd | lat=16.014783 | long=120.310067 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Above Sea Level Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baywalk | lat=16.045480 | long=120.270507 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Suratos Eatery & Ihaw Ihaw | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553055849395 | email=ritzysuratos98@gmail.com | address= | lat=16.014964 | long=120.263653 | directions= | phone=+63 9083675330 | tollfree= | hours=6AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Doña Nora HQFSC Grill and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gumapos Bridge | lat=16.016625 | long=120.280808 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Krisyl's Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Quibaol - Bangsal Road | lat=16.015851 | long=120.264268 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Cajun republique | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/cajunrepublique.baywalkbinmaley | email=cajunrepublique@gmail.com | address=Baywalk Brgy, San Isidro Norte | lat=16.045204 | long=120.270041 | directions= | phone=+63 9695643237 | tollfree= | hours=always open | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Papay Serio Binmaley Beach | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076240990350 | email= | address=Baywalk, San Isidro Norte | lat=16.044022 | long=120.265530 | directions= | phone=+63 917 858 5052 | tollfree= | hours=6AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=AMO Beach Restobar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/amobeachrestobar | email=amobeachrestobar@gmail.com | address=Baybay Lopez | lat=16.040829 | long=120.253601 | directions= | phone=+63 912 526 4786 | tollfree= | hours=2-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Julian's Kubo Grill | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.009736 | long=120.287744 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-8:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Crabaholics Resto Pangasinan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100054486998595 | email=jnavarro628@yahoo.com | address=Along the National Highway Naguilayan | lat=16.006296 | long=120.288772 | directions= | phone=+63 950 388 9850 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Abba's Tea and Pita Bread | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082881085490 | email= | address=1 Dagupan - Binmaley Rd | lat=16.029726 | long=120.267181 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM–10PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} * {{drink | name=I Love Milk Tea | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.02603 | long=120.211167 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-11 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Cafe Amaris | alt= | url=https://web.facebook.com/TheCafeAmaris | email=amariscafe2019@gmail.com | address=06 McKinley St. | lat=16.029172 | long=120.267026 | directions= | phone=+63 917 740 1753 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-05 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Bo's Coffee Binmaley | alt= | url=https://web.facebook.com/boscoffeebinmaley | email= | address=Brgy. Biec. | lat=16.023930 | long=120.274458 | directions= | phone=+63 75 511 7195 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-05 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Abba's Tea and Pita Bread | alt= | url=https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075942892715 | email= | address=Poblacion | lat=16.029782 | long=120.269741 | directions= | phone= +63 906 565 5954 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-05 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Victoria Cafe | alt= | url=https://web.facebook.com/victoria.cafe23 | email=victoriacafe023@gmail.com | address=60 Mabini | lat=16.031154 | long=120.273535 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-05 | content= }} * {{drink | name=CyberTea Calit Binmaley | alt= | url=https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064022315801 | email=jocelyncaridad91@gmail.com | address= | lat=16.002856 | long=120.320815 | directions= | phone=+63 907 144 3603 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-05 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=The Yellow Beach Villas | alt= | url=https://theyellowbeachvillas.godaddysites.com/ | email= | address= Baywalk | lat=16.046674 | long=120.271983 | directions= | phone=+63 9165551046 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Go next== * [[Lingayen]] - It is the Bagoong Capital of Pangasinan * [[Dagupan]] - It is the Bangus (Milkfish) Capital of the World * [[San Carlos (Pangasinan)|San Carlos City]] - They annually celebrate the Mango-Bamboo festival every last Saturday of April. {{IsPartOf|Pangasinan}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|16.03232|120.26904}} ip8ja3p4kdnj8nxyi838lnanoxaj36i 5288854 5288853 2026-06-06T13:30:16Z Borgenland 2282829 /* Drink */ Lingayen 5288854 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''Binmaley''' is a municipality of 89,000 people (2020). Binmaley is the seafood capital of [[Pangasinan]]. ==Understand== The town is famous for its ''bangus'' (milkfish) aqua-culture, because of its many fishponds (''pokok'' in the Pangasinan language). However, because of constant siltation from mine tailings upstream from Agno River (due to mine operations in neighboring Benguet Province), and the overuse of artificial fish feeds, the bangus industry has suffered from fishkill, fewer viable fishponds and lower harvests. As a result, many formerly productive fishponds have been converted into large commercial and residential lots. This phenomenon is beginning to seriously threaten the unique Binmaley fishpond industry. ==Get in== '''By bus''' From Manila, you can take [https://victoryliner.com/ Victory Liner] buses from their Pasay and Cubao terminals. '''By jeep''' From Dagupan or Lingayen there are Jeepneys available from 4:30AM to 8PM. ==Get around== {{Mapframe}} ==See== * {{see | name=Binmaley Museum | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/BinmaleyMuseum/ | email= | address= | lat=16.028775 | long=120.269000 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} * {{see | name=Our Lady of Purification Parish Church - Binmaley, Pangasinan (Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan) | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Our-Lady-of-Purification-Church-Binmaley-Pangasinan/195996303858836 | email= | address= | lat=16.029640 | long=120.266200 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-F 5:30AM–noon, 3–5PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} ==Do== * {{do | name=PSU Binmaley Campus | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/psubinmaleyofficial/ | email= | address= | lat=16.039634 | long=120.269089 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Binmaley Public Market | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.027672 | long=120.266663 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} * {{buy | name=101 Minimart | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/101Minimart | email= | address= Dagupan - Binmaley Rd | lat=16.014563 | long=120.309782 | directions= | phone=+63 929 755 1688 | tollfree= | hours=7AM - 7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-11 | content= }} * {{buy | name=7-Eleven Convenience Store | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rizal Street | lat=16.027977 | long=120.260765 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open 24 hours | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{buy | name=7- Eleven | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.022741 | long=120.267218 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Magic Binmaley | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.02815 | long=120.269007 | directions= | phone=+63 755400098 | tollfree= | hours=8AM–7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Sigay Fiestahan - Buffet of the North | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/SIGAY-Fiestahan-in-Binmaley-Pangasinan-Buffet-of-the-North/100057527646652/ | email= | address= | lat=16.022458 | long=120.274620 | directions= | phone=+63 9105440325 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content=Very spacious place, great place to eat, good for wedding receptions, birthday parties and reunions. }} * {{eat | name=Tim's Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lomboy after Petron | lat=16.013460 | long=120.258784 | directions= | phone=+63 9224780427 | tollfree= | hours=8AM–9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rudy Jing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.015285 | long=120.261165 | directions= | phone=+63 9164509794 | tollfree= | hours=6:30AM–9:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Gene's Eatery 4.4 (16) | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/geneseatery | email= | address= | lat=16.010758 | long=120.257352 | directions= | phone=+63 917 116 4789 | tollfree= | hours=9AM - 8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Goat Ka | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/lagoatka | email= | address=Biec W | lat=16.019746 | long=120.268445 | directions= | phone=+63 931 029 3446 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–7 PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rufina's A Taste of Home | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dagupan - Binmaley Rd | lat=16.014783 | long=120.310067 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Above Sea Level Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baywalk | lat=16.045480 | long=120.270507 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Suratos Eatery & Ihaw Ihaw | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553055849395 | email=ritzysuratos98@gmail.com | address= | lat=16.014964 | long=120.263653 | directions= | phone=+63 9083675330 | tollfree= | hours=6AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Doña Nora HQFSC Grill and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gumapos Bridge | lat=16.016625 | long=120.280808 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Krisyl's Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Quibaol - Bangsal Road | lat=16.015851 | long=120.264268 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Cajun republique | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/cajunrepublique.baywalkbinmaley | email=cajunrepublique@gmail.com | address=Baywalk Brgy, San Isidro Norte | lat=16.045204 | long=120.270041 | directions= | phone=+63 9695643237 | tollfree= | hours=always open | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Papay Serio Binmaley Beach | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076240990350 | email= | address=Baywalk, San Isidro Norte | lat=16.044022 | long=120.265530 | directions= | phone=+63 917 858 5052 | tollfree= | hours=6AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=AMO Beach Restobar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/amobeachrestobar | email=amobeachrestobar@gmail.com | address=Baybay Lopez | lat=16.040829 | long=120.253601 | directions= | phone=+63 912 526 4786 | tollfree= | hours=2-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Julian's Kubo Grill | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.009736 | long=120.287744 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-8:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Crabaholics Resto Pangasinan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100054486998595 | email=jnavarro628@yahoo.com | address=Along the National Highway Naguilayan | lat=16.006296 | long=120.288772 | directions= | phone=+63 950 388 9850 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Abba's Tea and Pita Bread | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082881085490 | email= | address=1 Dagupan - Binmaley Rd | lat=16.029726 | long=120.267181 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM–10PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Cafe Amaris | alt= | url=https://web.facebook.com/TheCafeAmaris | email=amariscafe2019@gmail.com | address=06 McKinley St. | lat=16.029172 | long=120.267026 | directions= | phone=+63 917 740 1753 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-05 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Bo's Coffee Binmaley | alt= | url=https://web.facebook.com/boscoffeebinmaley | email= | address=Brgy. Biec. | lat=16.023930 | long=120.274458 | directions= | phone=+63 75 511 7195 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-05 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Abba's Tea and Pita Bread | alt= | url=https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075942892715 | email= | address=Poblacion | lat=16.029782 | long=120.269741 | directions= | phone= +63 906 565 5954 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-05 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Victoria Cafe | alt= | url=https://web.facebook.com/victoria.cafe23 | email=victoriacafe023@gmail.com | address=60 Mabini | lat=16.031154 | long=120.273535 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-05 | content= }} * {{drink | name=CyberTea Calit Binmaley | alt= | url=https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064022315801 | email=jocelyncaridad91@gmail.com | address= | lat=16.002856 | long=120.320815 | directions= | phone=+63 907 144 3603 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-05 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=The Yellow Beach Villas | alt= | url=https://theyellowbeachvillas.godaddysites.com/ | email= | address= Baywalk | lat=16.046674 | long=120.271983 | directions= | phone=+63 9165551046 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Go next== * [[Lingayen]] - It is the Bagoong Capital of Pangasinan * [[Dagupan]] - It is the Bangus (Milkfish) Capital of the World * [[San Carlos (Pangasinan)|San Carlos City]] - They annually celebrate the Mango-Bamboo festival every last Saturday of April. {{IsPartOf|Pangasinan}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|16.03232|120.26904}} ri3b5t4x59y2xftnommyb5wgqko97gu 5288855 5288854 2026-06-06T13:30:59Z Borgenland 2282829 /* See */ Updated listing for Our Lady of Purification Parish Church 5288855 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''Binmaley''' is a municipality of 89,000 people (2020). Binmaley is the seafood capital of [[Pangasinan]]. ==Understand== The town is famous for its ''bangus'' (milkfish) aqua-culture, because of its many fishponds (''pokok'' in the Pangasinan language). However, because of constant siltation from mine tailings upstream from Agno River (due to mine operations in neighboring Benguet Province), and the overuse of artificial fish feeds, the bangus industry has suffered from fishkill, fewer viable fishponds and lower harvests. As a result, many formerly productive fishponds have been converted into large commercial and residential lots. This phenomenon is beginning to seriously threaten the unique Binmaley fishpond industry. ==Get in== '''By bus''' From Manila, you can take [https://victoryliner.com/ Victory Liner] buses from their Pasay and Cubao terminals. '''By jeep''' From Dagupan or Lingayen there are Jeepneys available from 4:30AM to 8PM. ==Get around== {{Mapframe}} ==See== * {{see | name=Binmaley Museum | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/BinmaleyMuseum/ | email= | address= | lat=16.028775 | long=120.269000 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} * {{see | name=Our Lady of Purification Parish Church | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Our-Lady-of-Purification-Church-Binmaley-Pangasinan/195996303858836 | email= | address= | lat=16.029640 | long=120.266200 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-F 5:30AM–noon, 3–5PM | price= | lastedit=2026-06-06 | content=Binmaley's main Roman Catholic church, built during the Spanish era. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=PSU Binmaley Campus | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/psubinmaleyofficial/ | email= | address= | lat=16.039634 | long=120.269089 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Binmaley Public Market | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.027672 | long=120.266663 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} * {{buy | name=101 Minimart | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/101Minimart | email= | address= Dagupan - Binmaley Rd | lat=16.014563 | long=120.309782 | directions= | phone=+63 929 755 1688 | tollfree= | hours=7AM - 7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-11 | content= }} * {{buy | name=7-Eleven Convenience Store | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rizal Street | lat=16.027977 | long=120.260765 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open 24 hours | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{buy | name=7- Eleven | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.022741 | long=120.267218 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Magic Binmaley | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.02815 | long=120.269007 | directions= | phone=+63 755400098 | tollfree= | hours=8AM–7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Sigay Fiestahan - Buffet of the North | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/SIGAY-Fiestahan-in-Binmaley-Pangasinan-Buffet-of-the-North/100057527646652/ | email= | address= | lat=16.022458 | long=120.274620 | directions= | phone=+63 9105440325 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content=Very spacious place, great place to eat, good for wedding receptions, birthday parties and reunions. }} * {{eat | name=Tim's Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lomboy after Petron | lat=16.013460 | long=120.258784 | directions= | phone=+63 9224780427 | tollfree= | hours=8AM–9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rudy Jing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.015285 | long=120.261165 | directions= | phone=+63 9164509794 | tollfree= | hours=6:30AM–9:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Gene's Eatery 4.4 (16) | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/geneseatery | email= | address= | lat=16.010758 | long=120.257352 | directions= | phone=+63 917 116 4789 | tollfree= | hours=9AM - 8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Goat Ka | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/lagoatka | email= | address=Biec W | lat=16.019746 | long=120.268445 | directions= | phone=+63 931 029 3446 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–7 PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-14 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Rufina's A Taste of Home | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dagupan - Binmaley Rd | lat=16.014783 | long=120.310067 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Above Sea Level Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baywalk | lat=16.045480 | long=120.270507 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Suratos Eatery & Ihaw Ihaw | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553055849395 | email=ritzysuratos98@gmail.com | address= | lat=16.014964 | long=120.263653 | directions= | phone=+63 9083675330 | tollfree= | hours=6AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Doña Nora HQFSC Grill and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gumapos Bridge | lat=16.016625 | long=120.280808 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Krisyl's Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Quibaol - Bangsal Road | lat=16.015851 | long=120.264268 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Cajun republique | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/cajunrepublique.baywalkbinmaley | email=cajunrepublique@gmail.com | address=Baywalk Brgy, San Isidro Norte | lat=16.045204 | long=120.270041 | directions= | phone=+63 9695643237 | tollfree= | hours=always open | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Papay Serio Binmaley Beach | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076240990350 | email= | address=Baywalk, San Isidro Norte | lat=16.044022 | long=120.265530 | directions= | phone=+63 917 858 5052 | tollfree= | hours=6AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=AMO Beach Restobar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/amobeachrestobar | email=amobeachrestobar@gmail.com | address=Baybay Lopez | lat=16.040829 | long=120.253601 | directions= | phone=+63 912 526 4786 | tollfree= | hours=2-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Julian's Kubo Grill | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.009736 | long=120.287744 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-8:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Crabaholics Resto Pangasinan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100054486998595 | email=jnavarro628@yahoo.com | address=Along the National Highway Naguilayan | lat=16.006296 | long=120.288772 | directions= | phone=+63 950 388 9850 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-16 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Abba's Tea and Pita Bread | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082881085490 | email= | address=1 Dagupan - Binmaley Rd | lat=16.029726 | long=120.267181 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM–10PM | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Cafe Amaris | alt= | url=https://web.facebook.com/TheCafeAmaris | email=amariscafe2019@gmail.com | address=06 McKinley St. | lat=16.029172 | long=120.267026 | directions= | phone=+63 917 740 1753 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-05 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Bo's Coffee Binmaley | alt= | url=https://web.facebook.com/boscoffeebinmaley | email= | address=Brgy. Biec. | lat=16.023930 | long=120.274458 | directions= | phone=+63 75 511 7195 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-05 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Abba's Tea and Pita Bread | alt= | url=https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075942892715 | email= | address=Poblacion | lat=16.029782 | long=120.269741 | directions= | phone= +63 906 565 5954 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-05 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Victoria Cafe | alt= | url=https://web.facebook.com/victoria.cafe23 | email=victoriacafe023@gmail.com | address=60 Mabini | lat=16.031154 | long=120.273535 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-05 | content= }} * {{drink | name=CyberTea Calit Binmaley | alt= | url=https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064022315801 | email=jocelyncaridad91@gmail.com | address= | lat=16.002856 | long=120.320815 | directions= | phone=+63 907 144 3603 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-05 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=The Yellow Beach Villas | alt= | url=https://theyellowbeachvillas.godaddysites.com/ | email= | address= Baywalk | lat=16.046674 | long=120.271983 | directions= | phone=+63 9165551046 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Go next== * [[Lingayen]] - It is the Bagoong Capital of Pangasinan * [[Dagupan]] - It is the Bangus (Milkfish) Capital of the World * [[San Carlos (Pangasinan)|San Carlos City]] - They annually celebrate the Mango-Bamboo festival every last Saturday of April. {{IsPartOf|Pangasinan}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|16.03232|120.26904}} syeycvjujpe19z8n3nnalgyuadao9ht 3 207257 5288835 5165048 2026-06-06T12:12:46Z XXBlackburnXx 642506 XXBlackburnXx moved page [[User talk:CuriousWhistler]] to [[User talk:Renamed user b184b357650f0813a48b7fb823faee66]] without leaving a redirect: Automatically moved page while renaming the user "[[Special:CentralAuth/CuriousWhistler|CuriousWhistler]]" to "[[Special:CentralAuth/Renamed user b184b357650f0813a48b7fb823faee66|Renamed user b184b357650f0813a48b7fb823faee66]]" 4974389 wikitext text/x-wiki Hello, RockTransport! [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, newcomers|Welcome]] to [[Wikivoyage:About|Wikivoyage]]. To help get you started contributing, we've created a [[Wikivoyage:Tips for new contributors|tips for new contributors]] page, full of helpful links about [[Wikivoyage:Directory of policies and guidelines|policies and guidelines]] and [[Wikivoyage:Manual of style|style]], as well as some important information on [[Wikivoyage:Copyleft|copyleft]] and basic stuff like [[Wikivoyage:How to edit a page|how to edit a page]]. If you need help, check out [[Wikivoyage:Help|Help]], or post a message in the [[Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub|travellers' pub]]. New users are also welcome to post any questions or concerns to the [[Wikivoyage:Arrivals lounge|arrivals lounge]]. If you want some practice editing, please do so on our [[Project:graffiti wall|graffiti wall]]. If you are familiar with Wikipedia, take a look over some of the [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, Wikipedians|differences]] here. If you want to contribute with information about the place where you live, see [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, locals]]. —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 17:32, 17 October 2024 (UTC) :Thanks! The graffiti wall/sandbox is not working however. [[User:RockTransport|RockTransport]] ([[User talk:RockTransport|talk]]) 18:49, 17 October 2024 (UTC) == Wikivoyage at a competition == {{swept}} Hello there. Me and my friends are taking part in a science (STEM) competition and we would like to set up a stand for Wikivoyage (and our other project) as part of our whole project during this event. I was thinking how you could help us (ideas etc.) in doing so. Many thanks. -- [[User:RockTransport|RockTransport]] ([[User talk:RockTransport|talk]]) 15:54, 23 October 2024 (UTC) :Welcome, @[[User:RockTransport|RockTransport]]. I'm not sure what your idea means in practice. Is this an in-person event? [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:20, 23 October 2024 (UTC) ::Yes, it is an in-person event, and it is part of outreach, so we can get more contributors. There will be a multitude of well-known people attending this event. [[User:RockTransport|RockTransport]] ([[User talk:RockTransport|talk]]) 16:22, 23 October 2024 (UTC) :::It would be something like this: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Wikimedia_stands. Additionally, there will also be another project as well that we are exhibiting. [[User:RockTransport|RockTransport]] ([[User talk:RockTransport|talk]]) 16:23, 23 October 2024 (UTC) ::::We have had travel guides in the past for events like the Olympic Games and the World Cup, and for conferences like Wikimania, so i think what you are propiding woukd be in scope. Here is one [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Wikimania_2014_London_Guidebook&oldid=2730130 example]. If you get it started, and put a link here, experienced editors will assist with formatting and making sure it compares with Wikivoyage policies. You would be responsible for content, however. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 16:41, 24 October 2024 (UTC) :::::I think a physical stand at an event is being proposed. Does this need a page? What may be useful is a 2-3 paragraph guide to Wikivoyage that can be printed and displayed on the stand. Do we have a page that could be printed as a WV poster? I assume that the "other project" is another WMF wiki and not another venture that we would need to question whether it is compatible. If there is some idea of the location of this event, some improvements could be made to the local pages. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 18:00, 24 October 2024 (UTC) :::::I'm sorry Ground Zero, but this is not what I am referring to. What I'm referring to is starting up a stand at that event and talking about why you should edit on Wikivoyage etc. [[User:RockTransport|RockTransport]] ([[User talk:RockTransport|talk]]) 18:20, 24 October 2024 (UTC) ::::::Yes, I misunderstood. Sorry for my interruption. Carry on.... [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 18:44, 24 October 2024 (UTC) ::::Will you be there the whole time? Will you have wifi access? Can you have more than one computer/display screen? [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 23:52, 24 October 2024 (UTC) :::::We will be there the whole time and we may have Wi-fi access. I'm not too sure about the display screens though. We are unveiling the technology behind it so it is in line with the technology part. [[User:RockTransport|RockTransport]] ([[User talk:RockTransport|talk]]) 06:16, 25 October 2024 (UTC) ::::::If you have a display screen (even if it's just a laptop), you can play a slideshow/video that shows how to edit, with occasional messages about why to contribute. (I would suggest making those messages as simple and basic as possible.) The advantage of a slideshow is that it can run even when you're busy with something else. ::::::If you have time to talk to people, you could ask people to suggest changes, and show them how you do it (i.e., in your own account, or in a specially created account for the event that you use). For example, you can ask people "Here's the article for Ourtown. When you have visitors, where do you take them?" or "What have we gotten wrong in this article?" ::::::When is your event? If it's weeks or months from now, we might be able to mail you some stickers to give away. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:45, 25 October 2024 (UTC) :::::::After making a decision, I have decided to change my mind and I will not use Wikivoyage during this event. Thanks though! [[User:RockTransport|RockTransport]] ([[User talk:RockTransport|talk]]) 18:07, 25 October 2024 (UTC) ::::::::Okay. Watching two stands was sounding like a lot of work and logistics to me. Maybe keep the idea in mind for another year. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:09, 26 October 2024 (UTC) g05s8ygofxjtwpdlinu81tj15eas13r 1 211989 5288889 5255224 2026-06-06T15:48:11Z Pashley 1822 /* Pakistan & Urdu */ 5288889 wikitext text/x-wiki == A Commons file used on this page or its Wikidata item is missing permission == The following Wikimedia Commons file used on this page or its Wikidata item is missing permission information and may be deleted: * [[commons:File:Bollywood tourism banner.jpg|Bollywood tourism banner.jpg]]<!-- COMMONSBOT: nopermission | 2025-07-21T18:23:06.886949 | Bollywood tourism banner.jpg --> You can see the details at the file description page linked above. —[[User:Community Tech bot|Community Tech bot]] ([[User talk:Community Tech bot|talk]]) 18:23, 21 July 2025 (UTC) :[[User:SHB2000]], this is derived by you from an upload that was deleted, and this has speedy deletion tags as uploaded without permission. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:07, 21 July 2025 (UTC) ::Well I guess that too ought to go straight into the bin. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:17, 21 July 2025 (UTC) :::Of course it's the pagebanner. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:52, 21 July 2025 (UTC) == Move page to Indian cinema tourism == This would be much better and would be all encompassing of the Indian cinema industry, featuring Bollywood, Pollywood, Mollywood, Tollywood, and Sandalwood. [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 15:15, 4 April 2026 (UTC) :I support the name change if the article will indeed encompass these other languages of Indian cinema in a meaningful way. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 15:46, 4 April 2026 (UTC) == [[w:Haré Rama Haré Krishna]] == When I was in India, 1975, this film was quite popular. The plot revolves around a young Indian woman corrupted by hippies; people I met had been extras in the parts filmed in Rishikesh. Since my wife & I looked like hippies, kids would sing the show's theme song at us; the message seemed to be "We know what you're up to". I do not know if it matters today. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:56, 5 April 2026 (UTC) == Pakistan & Urdu == My understanding is that Bollywood films are popular both in Pakistan & among the Pakistani diaspora, because the spoken forms of Hindi & Urdu are very close. Is that correct? Should it be mentioned in the article? What about Bangladesh? Do many there speak Urdu? Is there a Bengali film industry? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 16:26, 5 April 2026 (UTC) : I added something in the lead paragraph. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:48, 6 June 2026 (UTC) == Tollywood? == The article has " Tollywood (Telugu cinema)" but [[w:Cinema of West Bengal]] has "The origin of the nickname "Tollywood"—a portmanteau of the words Tollygunge and Hollywood—dates back to 1932." [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 23:15, 5 April 2026 (UTC) jvehpa91c6jcraz9a18z8pav8uqvjyr 5288890 5288889 2026-06-06T15:51:49Z Pashley 1822 /* Tollywood? */ 5288890 wikitext text/x-wiki == A Commons file used on this page or its Wikidata item is missing permission == The following Wikimedia Commons file used on this page or its Wikidata item is missing permission information and may be deleted: * [[commons:File:Bollywood tourism banner.jpg|Bollywood tourism banner.jpg]]<!-- COMMONSBOT: nopermission | 2025-07-21T18:23:06.886949 | Bollywood tourism banner.jpg --> You can see the details at the file description page linked above. —[[User:Community Tech bot|Community Tech bot]] ([[User talk:Community Tech bot|talk]]) 18:23, 21 July 2025 (UTC) :[[User:SHB2000]], this is derived by you from an upload that was deleted, and this has speedy deletion tags as uploaded without permission. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:07, 21 July 2025 (UTC) ::Well I guess that too ought to go straight into the bin. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:17, 21 July 2025 (UTC) :::Of course it's the pagebanner. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:52, 21 July 2025 (UTC) == Move page to Indian cinema tourism == This would be much better and would be all encompassing of the Indian cinema industry, featuring Bollywood, Pollywood, Mollywood, Tollywood, and Sandalwood. [[User:Globetrotter30|Globetrotter30]] ([[User talk:Globetrotter30|talk]]) 15:15, 4 April 2026 (UTC) :I support the name change if the article will indeed encompass these other languages of Indian cinema in a meaningful way. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 15:46, 4 April 2026 (UTC) == [[w:Haré Rama Haré Krishna]] == When I was in India, 1975, this film was quite popular. The plot revolves around a young Indian woman corrupted by hippies; people I met had been extras in the parts filmed in Rishikesh. Since my wife & I looked like hippies, kids would sing the show's theme song at us; the message seemed to be "We know what you're up to". I do not know if it matters today. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:56, 5 April 2026 (UTC) == Pakistan & Urdu == My understanding is that Bollywood films are popular both in Pakistan & among the Pakistani diaspora, because the spoken forms of Hindi & Urdu are very close. Is that correct? Should it be mentioned in the article? What about Bangladesh? Do many there speak Urdu? Is there a Bengali film industry? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 16:26, 5 April 2026 (UTC) : I added something in the lead paragraph. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:48, 6 June 2026 (UTC) == Tollywood? == The article has " Tollywood (Telugu cinema)" but [[w:Cinema of West Bengal]] has "The origin of the nickname "Tollywood"—a portmanteau of the words Tollygunge and Hollywood—dates back to 1932." [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 23:15, 5 April 2026 (UTC) : {{ping|Sbb1413}}? lageqfwqc6jku8ns4u21k5c76tw7qie 0 212305 5289037 5120844 2026-06-07T10:35:45Z SHB2000 2248002 5289037 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Tunari National Park banner.jpg|pgname=Tunari National Park}} '''Tunari National Park''' (officially, ''Parque Nacional Tunari'') is a protected natural area in the [[Cochabamba (department)|Cochabamba Department]] of [[Bolivia]]. The highland park is in the mountains overlooking the city of [[Cochabamba]]. It is home to charismatic Andean mountain wildlife, like the spectacled bear and various types of llamas. The park has spectacular scenery with craggy mountain peaks and crystal clear glacial lakes. There are also archaeological sites within the park and some [[Indigenous cultures of South America|indigenous communities]]. [[File:Laguna del Parque Nacional Tunari, Cochabamba, Bolivia.jpg|thumb|Lake in Tunari National Park]] ==Understand== It is a big park covering an area of more than 300,000 hectares. ===History=== The park was established as part of the [[Bolivian national parks]] system in 1962. It protects the highland glacial lakes and wetlands which are important water resources for the city of Cochabamba. ===Landscape=== [[File:Villa Tunari y sus desagües.jpg|thumb|Rushing waters of the Rio Villa Tunari]] ===Flora and fauna=== The park has relatively low populations of several species typical of Andean habitats. It has spectacled bears, maned wolves, pumas and Andean condors. Although the park has a fairly large population of vicuñas, they are deep within the park territory and many casual visitors who only visit the perimeters never get a chance to see them. [[Birdwatching|Birdwatchers]] can find some rare birds in the park, though populations tend to be sparse and spotting the rarest of the rare takes more than a bit of luck. Some of the birds you might spot include the Red-tailed comet, Giant hummingbird, and the Yungas pygmy owl. Endemic birds to watch for are the Cochabamba mountain finch, which congregates on the southern slope, while the Black-hooded sunbeam is found on the moist Yungas slopes. A good spot for birdwatching is the patchy forests at San Miguel. ===Climate=== ==Get in== The park boundaries abut those of the city of Cochabamba. A taxi from most parts of the city will take around 10 minutes to get to the park at a fare of Bs. 35 (more or less, depending on your starting point). ==Fees and permits== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== * '''Tunari Peak''' - the 5,035-m-high peak is the highest point in the park. It is a moderately challenging hike due to the altitude but an up-and-back hike normally takes about 6 hours. Solo hikers can make the trek, though it is recommended to go with a local guide who knows the park. Guides can be hired through travel agents in [[Cochabamba]]. The trail is easy to follow from the trailhead to the twin lakes (Laguna Macho and Laguna Turu). Above the lakes, the trail is not well defined and the route is rough stone with only sparse vegetation. Bring water, a jacket, a hat and a sublock. ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== There are no lodges within the park; however, a large number of hotels, hostels, and other lodging is available in [[Cochabamba#Sleep|Cochabamba]]. ===Camping=== Overnight camping is not permitted in the park. ==Stay safe== ==Go next== * [[Cochabamba]] {{IsPartOf|Cochabamba (department)}} {{outlinepark}} {{geo|-17.32|-66.14}} q8zly4pif7wrq59s2o8mjc4sl7364zv 0 217229 5288980 5288781 2026-06-07T04:19:48Z Brycehughes 43226 /* Mobile payments */ clarify 5288980 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Where Everybody Looks at Screens (banner).jpg|caption=Passengers staring at their phones on the Shanghai Metro}} '''[[China]]''' presents a unique digital situation for travellers. On one hand, China is one of the most connected countries in the world: people are highly digitally literate, mobile payments are nearly universal, and internet access is widespread. On the other hand, the '''Great Firewall of China''' blocks many popular foreign websites and services, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Google, WhatsApp, Telegram, Wikipedia, and even our dear Wikivoyage. Moreover, foreign credit cards are rarely accepted. An unprepared traveller may arrive in China unable to use familiar apps or websites, pay easily for goods and services, or contact friends and family back home. Fortunately, there are ways around these problems. With preparation before arrival, and a few steps after you arrive in China, you can stay connected, access many of your usual websites and apps, keep in touch with people abroad, and use China’s mobile payment systems. This guide explains how to prepare before travelling and what to do once you arrive. {{cautionbox | This guide is about how to stay connected to the outside world while travelling in China. ''It is not a guide to maintaining privacy or data security in China''. If you handle sensitive information, research appropriate security precautions before travelling. }} ==Understand== ===VPNs=== China blocks access to many foreign websites and services through the '''Great Firewall of China'''. The Great Firewall normally works by inspecting Internet traffic going between China and the outside world, then blocking connections to banned websites and services. A '''virtual private network''' (VPN) routes your Internet connection through a server somewhere else. Instead of connecting directly from China to a blocked site, your phone or computer first makes an encrypted connection to a VPN server. Because that connection is encrypted, the Great Firewall should not be able to see that you are trying to reach a blocked site; it sees only the connection to the VPN server. The VPN server then connects to the blocked site for you and sends the data back through the encrypted connection. In China, a VPN may let you access sites and apps that are otherwise blocked. However, not all VPNs work reliably in China. The Great Firewall actively detects and disrupts many VPN connections, and performance can vary by provider, server, device, network, city, and even the time of day. ====Legality==== Using VPNs and other tools is common in practice, including among Chinese residents. China regulates VPN services, and companies operating VPNs inside China generally need government approval. Unauthorized VPN services have been targeted by the authorities, but ordinary tourists are rarely the target of enforcement. That said, you should be discreet. Do not use a VPN or other circumvention tool for political activism or anything that could attract official attention. The practical risk for normal tourist use is very low, but it is not zero. ===Mobile payments=== [[File:NFC Pay terminal, Alipay.jpg|thumb|right|An Alipay payment terminal]] China’s consumer economy relies almost entirely on mobile payments, and the normal way to pay for almost anything is by scanning a QR code with your phone. The two dominant payment platforms are '''Alipay''' and '''WeChat Pay'''. Alipay is widely used for payments, while WeChat Pay is built into [https://www.wechat.com/en WeChat], China’s dominant messaging app. Almost every merchant in China will have an Alipay terminal or QR code and/or a WeChat Pay QR code for you to scan and pay. You can link an overseas card to Alipay or WeChat Pay, though reliability varies widely by card. ====Travel-friendly credit and debit cards==== Foreign cards can be used with Alipay and WeChat Pay, but not every card works, regardless of whether they are on supposedly supported networks such as Visa or Mastercard. You should bring more than one card to China and from different issuers. Travel-oriented debit cards, such as '''[https://wise.com Wise]''' or '''[https://www.revolut.com Revolut]''' work better than mainstream cards. ''Don't assume your card will work''. If UnionPay credit or debit cards are available in your country, consider applying for them, as these are usually targeted specifically at people who travel to China regularly. ===Mini-programs=== Many Chinese services are accessed through '''mini-programs''' inside larger apps rather than through websites or standalone apps. The most important hosts are '''WeChat''' and '''Alipay'''. A mini-program opens inside the main app and can more-or-less do all the things a regular phone app can do. Some businesses require that you use a mini-program to interact with them. Many tourist attractions have their own mini-programs – these are extremely useful for making tourist-site reservations (where available). Some services that have standalone apps actually work better with their mini-programs instead. For example, '''DiDi''' – China's Uber – is often easier for foreign travellers to use through Alipay, because your payment is integrated and the standalone app (the China version, which you must use in China) can be quite persnickety about foreign cards. Mini-programs are far easier to find by searching in Chinese characters. Copy the Chinese name of thing you're interested in into the WeChat or Alipay search box, or scan the QR code posted at a site's entrance. When searching by name, particularly for tourist attractions, beware of mini-programs with similar names that are in fact unofficial services trying to sell you tours, etc. Both WeChat and Alipay include built-in translation features, though coverage is rough. Text in menus and customer-service chats may translate reasonably well, while pop-up notices and error messages may not. The Alipay translation option usually floats above the app and is easily tappable, while the WeChat translation is available through a menu at the top-right. ===Maps=== [[File:IllegalFlowerTribute1.jpg|thumb|right|Pour one out for Google China.]] Digital maps function differently in China compared to the rest of the world. China uses its own coordinate system, so foreign maps show almost everything in a bizarre offset from where they really are. This "shifted map" problem applies to Google Maps and most OpenStreetMap-based apps, so you'll need to use a Chinese map app instead. ''Google Maps is useless in China and should not be used''. Apple Maps is occasionally recommended on web forums, but given that it offers little more than Google other than an accurate coordinate system, it is mostly useless as well. The main local options are '''Amap''' (also called Gaode Maps) and '''Baidu Maps'''. Both have far better local data than Google Maps or Apple Maps, including public transport, restaurants, shops, hotels, attractions, road closures, and walking routes. ''Amap is usually the most useful choice for travellers'' because it offers an English interface and English map labels. That said, even with Amap, Chinese characters are important. Many places are easier (or even only possible) to find by searching for their Chinese names. Copy Chinese names from Wikivoyage, booking confirmations, attraction websites, etc., when searching. ===Social media=== [[File:Douyin user (cropped).jpg|thumb|right|upright|Looks familiar]] Much commerce in China takes place over social media, and influencers are often contracted by businesses to sell their products during livestreams. Unfortunately, foreign social media apps are blocked in China, which has its own parallel social media ecosystem instead. Even TikTok runs separate servers for its international and Chinese domestic versions, and content on one is not available on the other. If you can understand Chinese, social media is a good way to search for recommendations in the area you are visiting. The most popular social media platforms are '''[https://www.douyin.com/ Douyin]''' (the Chinese domestic version of TikTok) and '''[https://www.xiaohongshu.com/ Xiaohongshu]''' (called '''Rednote''' in English). Chinese social media sites require identity verification in order for you to register for an account, but in most cases, foreigners can register using their passport. Registration is usually not required just for viewing content, but is necessary if you want to bookmark, follow or post comments. ==Prepare== Prepare your phone, payments, and Internet access before arrival. Do not assume you can fix everything after you land: VPN websites may be blocked, app downloads may fail, cards may need verification, and some accounts may require SMS codes sent to an existing phone number. ===Bring the right cards=== Bring more than one credit or debit card, preferably from different issuers. A foreign Visa or Mastercard may work normally elsewhere in the world, but still fail when linked to Alipay or WeChat Pay. Travel-oriented debit cards, such as '''Wise''' or '''Revolut''', typically work better than mainstream cards. Know your card PINs, make sure your cards are enabled for overseas and online payments, and bring enough cash or ATM access to cover a few days if mobile payments fail. Cash is still legal tender in China, but it is much less convenient than mobile payment. ===Set up Alipay and WeChat Pay=== Install Alipay and WeChat before travelling to China. Link at least one foreign card to each app, complete any identity verification requested, and make sure you can receive SMS codes on the phone number attached to your accounts. Set up both apps rather than relying on only one. Alipay is often easier to use for everyday payments, but WeChat mini-programs (which use WeChat Pay) are usually preferred for reserving tickets at tourist attractions. If your SMS phone number doesn't work in China, then you should get a Chinese phone number once you arrive and then switch both apps to that. ''The Beijinger'' has [https://www.thebeijinger.com/blog/2024/08/26/expats-visitors-rejoice-upgrades-digital-payments-are-here an illustrated guide] to setting up Alipay and WeChat Pay. ===Set up VPNs=== {{infobox|Mullvad ain't bad|Mullvad is one of the most popular VPNs for circumventing the Great Firewall but it is by no means perfect. As of 2026, all Asian servers are blocked. Europe is painfully slow. Your best best bet is to connect to servers in the United States and Canada. If your connection to the United States is failing, connect to Canada. If Canada is failing, connect to the United States. Setting your obfuscation/anti-censorship settings to Shadowsocks normally gives the best results. All this can quickly change so you'll likely need to experiment with connections and settings. }} Set up any [[Internet access#VPN providers|VPN]] before arriving in China. VPN websites and downloads will almost certainly be blocked once you are inside the country. Be sure to test your VPN on all your devices before you arrive! If you are a propeller-hat you may have other workarounds, but this guide covers only VPNs. Not all VPNs work reliably in China. Performance changes frequently, and a VPN that works on one network, device, server, or day may fail on another. Paid VPNs are generally more plausible than free VPNs, but no provider should be treated as guaranteed. Post-secondary institutions often provide VPN to their staff and students for free, as do many other big institutions and companies for their employees. As of 2026, travellers report success with '''[https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]''' and '''[https://www.astrill.com/ Astrill]''', while Proton VPN rarely works and NordVPN does not work at all. Have more than one option. A sensible setup is one primary VPN, one backup VPN, and a roaming SIM or travel eSIM that can access blocked sites without using mainland Chinese internet routing. In theory, you may not need a VPN if you can tether your computer to your phone’s roaming connection. However, roaming plans often have data limits, which can make regular computer use expensive or impractical. Although paid services are more reliable, [https://digitalcruch.com/zh/free-vpns-china/ this list] of free VPNs can still be useful in emergency situations – it is generally preferable to access their mirror links rather than relying on the official websites. ===Arrange mobile data=== A working mobile data connection that accesses the Internet beyond the Great Firewall is one of the most useful things to have in China. There are two options: * '''Roaming from your home carrier''' — usually the easiest option, and often allows access to blocked foreign websites and apps because the traffic is routed through your home carrier. It can be expensive, depending on your plan. * '''A travel SIM or eSIM''' — often cheaper than home-carrier roaming and may also bypass the Great Firewall, depending on the provider and routing. As of 2026, [https://www.trip.com/things-to-do/detail/53873746 this Trip.com eSIM] is popular and works. Make sure your phone is unlocked before travelling. If you plan to use an eSIM, check that your phone supports arbitrary eSIMs and that your model is not region-locked in a way that disables it. {{Cautionbox|China has heavier network controls in [[Xinjiang]] and [[Tibet]]. Your roaming SIM may not work reliably in these regions without also enabling a China-ready VPN service.}} ===Install useful apps=== Install the apps you are likely to need before arriving. App stores, login pages, and verification systems can be harder to use in China. Useful apps include: * '''Alipay''' — payments, DiDi ride-hailing, transport, translation, mini-programs, and many travel services * '''WeChat''' — messaging, WeChat Pay, mini-programs, and many local services * '''Amap''' — the most useful map app for most foreign travellers in China. When you set up Amap and it asks for your country, ''be sure to select a country for which you will have SMS-message access in China!'' If you are planning to get a Chinese phone number, then you can say your country is China and bind your phone number later. If you don't select a country for which you have SMS access in China, the app will still work, but you will not be able to bind your phone number to sync to the desktop version of the app, and if you delete the app your saved places will be lost. You cannot change your country after you install the app, for only-China-would-know reasons. * '''MetroMan China''' – if you know the names of the metro stations, can provide more efficient metro directions than Amap. * '''Trip.com''' — as as of 2026, your best booking resource for hotels, trains, flights, and some attraction tickets (although WeChat mini-apps can be cheaper for attractions). * A '''translation app''' with offline Chinese support. Since this guide recommends using a roaming SIM or travel eSIM, '''Google Translate''' should work fine, but ''download offline Chinese'' anyway. You might download '''Baidu Translate''' just in case. '''Pleco''' is a useful Chinese/English dictionary, but not a fully-fledged translation app. * Your '''VPN or proxy apps'''. * Airline, hotel, banking, and password-manager apps you may need during the trip. You can install the Mainland China version of DiDi for ride-hailing, but using DiDi through the Alipay or WeChat mini-program is usually easier, as the standalone app has trouble with foreign payment methods. ====Weather forecasts==== For weather, '''[https://en.weather.com.cn Weather China]''', China's official weather service, is usually more accurate than foreign services, but as of 2026 it does not have an app and must be accessed through the website. If you can figure it out, the [https://www.weather.com.cn/ Chinese language version] is a lot more informative than the English language version (look at the Wikivoyage article or try asking AI for the Chinese name of the city you're interested in to paste into the search box). For English-native services, '''[https://apps.apple.com/us/app/weather/id1069513131 Apple's Weather app]''' on the iPhone is usually quite accurate in China, as it is sourced from a Chinese service called [https://www.qweather.com/ QWeather]. ===Set up a Chinese keyboard=== {{infobox|How Chinese type|Chinese has thousands of characters, but obviously keyboards do not have thousands of keys! In mainland China, most people type Chinese using Pinyin, where the Latin alphabet is used to write Mandarin sounds. For example, typing ''nihao'' brings up 你好 ("hello"), and the user chooses the correct characters from a list of suggestions. Many phones also support handwriting input, where users draw characters directly on the screen. This is slower for normal typing but useful when the user doesn't know how a character is pronounced. }} Set up a '''Chinese (Simplified)''' keyboard on your phone before travelling. Even if you don't speak Chinese, it can be useful when you hand your phone to a Chinese speaker for help. The most useful input methods are usually '''Pinyin''' and '''handwriting'''. Pinyin is the standard way mainland Chinese people type Chinese characters using the Latin alphabet, so it is useful when someone else is entering Chinese text for you. On iPhone, the Chinese (Simplified) Pinyin keyboard offers layout options such as QWERTY, AZERTY, and 10 Key; '''QWERTY''' is usually the safest choice for travellers, since it matches the normal Latin keyboard layout. Android phones have similar options. Also add '''Chinese (Simplified) Handwriting''' if available. Handwriting input lets someone draw characters directly on the screen, which can help with signs, names, addresses, and cases where copying text is not possible. Many Chinese like to use this, and you may find yourself using this as well (it can be fun). Choose Simplified Chinese rather than Traditional Chinese. Mainland China uses simplified characters, while Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau mostly use traditional characters. ===Save Chinese names and offline information=== Save important information before arrival, preferably both in English and Chinese. This includes hotel names and addresses, airport and train station names, attraction names, booking confirmations, emergency contacts, and the Chinese names of places you plan to visit. Chinese-character names are often needed for maps, taxi destinations, mini-program searches, restaurant lookup, and asking for help. For example, for food emergencies, save the word for noodles 面条 so you can quickly search in Amap. 馄饨 (wontons) and 饺子 (dumplings) might also come in handy. Searching for these in Chinese will give you far more results than searching in English. ==Upon arrival== ===Get a Chinese SIM=== {{infobox|How to SIM|As of 2026, foreigners are unable to acquire eSIMs in China and must purchase physical SIMs instead. If you plan on obtaining a Chinese phone number, this may require some planning: *If your phone does not have a physical SIM slot (such as a recent-model U.S. iPhones), then ''you will not be able to use a Chinese phone number'' on that phone. You'll need to use a burner phone with at least one physical slot for a Chinese SIM. *If you only have a single physical SIM slot, then your roaming SIM (either from your home carrier or a travel carrier) ''must'' be an eSIM in order to make room for the Chinese physical SIM, or else you'll have to manually swap out your SIMs each time you need to use them. *If you have two physical SIM slots, then you shouldn't have any issues.}} If your phone supports dual SIMs (for example, one physical SIM and multiple eSIMs), consider getting a mainland Chinese SIM in addition to your roaming SIM or travel eSIM. '''A Chinese phone number''' is extremely useful because many Chinese services are tied to SMS verification, including food delivery, mini-programs, and ticket reservations – foreign phone numbers are rarely recognized regardless of whether you are able to receive SMS messages in China. Set mobile data to the roaming SIM or travel eSIM, and set calls and text messages to the Chinese SIM. Buying a Chinese SIM requires passport registration. Airport kiosks for '''China Mobile''', '''China Unicom''', or '''China Telecom''' are usually the easiest places, but prices may be higher. For better prices, wait until you can go to an official store; in major cities, staff should be able to set you up quickly. There are also many unofficial mobile service shops, which will not be able to register a SIM for a foreigner, but the staff should happily point you to an official location. ===Test payments and withdraw cash=== [[File:Alipay payment 20160121 (cropped).jpg|thumb|right|Mission accomplished.]] Test Alipay and WeChat Pay before you need them for anything urgent. A hotel front desk is a good place to try a payment. If a payment fails, try another linked card or the other payment app. Failures can be caused by the card issuer, the app, identity verification, the merchant’s payment setup, or the type of transaction. It is much easier to troubleshoot this before you are in a rush. Withdraw a small amount of cash from an ATM as backup. Cash is still legal tender, but it is less convenient than mobile payment, and some merchants may have trouble making change. ==Go== ===Use your phone for local transport=== Set up local public-transport QR codes in WeChat or Alipay. Instead of physical cards, most Chinese cities have '''metro and bus cards''' inside WeChat or Alipay, which is extremely convenient. (Alipay tends to be more straightforward and easier to use.) Activating them may require passport verification (you can do this on your phone), but you should only have to do it once, even though you will need to activate a new transport card in each city. Test the transport code before rush hour or before making a timed connection! Some stations also sell paper tickets or accept cash, but QR-code payment is far easier once set up. ===Use mini-programs for tickets and reservations=== [[File:WeChat Mini Program code example (cropped).svg|thumb|right|These specialized QR codes can be scanned with WeChat to open mini-programs.]] Many museums, scenic areas, restaurants, and local services use '''WeChat mini-programs''' for tickets and reservations. You can reserve in advance usually ''if you have a Chinese phone number'' from your Chinese SIM – this may save you a lot of time waiting in line. In WeChat, pull down from the main chat screen to open the mini-program area; this shows recently used mini-programs and a search box. You can also find mini-programs by scanning QR codes, searching WeChat, or following links from an organization’s official WeChat account. Search using Chinese characters whenever possible. English searches often fail or return unofficial results. Copy the Chinese name of the place you want to visit and paste it into the search box. Once you find the right mini-program, it should be saved in your recent mini-programs so you don't have to search for it again. ''Don't worry if you can't get this working''; almost all tourist attractions are lenient towards foreigners, and you can just show up, show your passport and buy a ticket, no problem. ===Use your passport at ticket checks=== China uses real-name registration for many tickets and reservations. Chinese citizens usually use their national ID cards for this; Hong Kong and Macau citizens use their Home Return Permit, Taiwanese citizens use their Taiwan Compatriot Pass, and foreign travellers use their passports. This applies to train tickets, many museums and tourist attractions, some ferry or long-distance bus tickets, and many reservations made through WeChat or Alipay mini-programs. You’ll probably need to carry your passport more often in China than you do in other countries. When booking, enter your name and passport number carefully – make sure what you enter matches your passport exactly. At the site or station, show your passport and you'll either collect a ticket or they'll just wave you on your way, no physical ticket needed. At train stations, you'll likely need to have your ticket inspected manually, as the automated gates are usually only set up to scan Chinese ID cards. There will be a manual inspection lane or window somewhere; look for a uniformed person amongst the gates. ===Use your phone to order food=== [[File:Luckin Coffee Kunming store.jpg|thumb|right|You must use an app or mini-program to order a coffee at Luckin.]] Many sit-down restaurants use digital ordering, where you scan a QR code using WeChat, and a page will pop up, allowing you to place your order and pay. Unfortunately, the menu is almost always in Chinese only. Some restaurants can provide you with physical menus and you can usually also place your order manually with the waitstaff (though it is highly unlikely that you will meet an English-speaking waiter). Nevertheless, restaurants often have pictures of their most popular dishes either in their menus or on a billboard somewhere inside, so you can just point to what you want, or take a photo of the dish with your phone and show the staff. Some chain-restaurants require (or practically require) that you use either a phone app or an Alipay/WeChat mini-program to order food. For example, KFC, ubiquitous in China, is nearly impossible to order without using either their phone app or a mini-program. McDonald's, on the other hand, provides convenient digital kiosks at their restaurants with menus in English, so you don't need to bother with your phone. {{PartOfTopic|Preparation|China}} {{usabletopic}} gjrg0je2g6cmi2z3hcghyancsfs45c6 5289022 5288980 2026-06-07T09:03:09Z Brycehughes 43226 /* Go */ add 5289022 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Where Everybody Looks at Screens (banner).jpg|caption=Passengers staring at their phones on the Shanghai Metro}} '''[[China]]''' presents a unique digital situation for travellers. On one hand, China is one of the most connected countries in the world: people are highly digitally literate, mobile payments are nearly universal, and internet access is widespread. On the other hand, the '''Great Firewall of China''' blocks many popular foreign websites and services, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Google, WhatsApp, Telegram, Wikipedia, and even our dear Wikivoyage. Moreover, foreign credit cards are rarely accepted. An unprepared traveller may arrive in China unable to use familiar apps or websites, pay easily for goods and services, or contact friends and family back home. Fortunately, there are ways around these problems. With preparation before arrival, and a few steps after you arrive in China, you can stay connected, access many of your usual websites and apps, keep in touch with people abroad, and use China’s mobile payment systems. This guide explains how to prepare before travelling and what to do once you arrive. {{cautionbox | This guide is about how to stay connected to the outside world while travelling in China. ''It is not a guide to maintaining privacy or data security in China''. If you handle sensitive information, research appropriate security precautions before travelling. }} ==Understand== ===VPNs=== China blocks access to many foreign websites and services through the '''Great Firewall of China'''. The Great Firewall normally works by inspecting Internet traffic going between China and the outside world, then blocking connections to banned websites and services. A '''virtual private network''' (VPN) routes your Internet connection through a server somewhere else. Instead of connecting directly from China to a blocked site, your phone or computer first makes an encrypted connection to a VPN server. Because that connection is encrypted, the Great Firewall should not be able to see that you are trying to reach a blocked site; it sees only the connection to the VPN server. The VPN server then connects to the blocked site for you and sends the data back through the encrypted connection. In China, a VPN may let you access sites and apps that are otherwise blocked. However, not all VPNs work reliably in China. The Great Firewall actively detects and disrupts many VPN connections, and performance can vary by provider, server, device, network, city, and even the time of day. ====Legality==== Using VPNs and other tools is common in practice, including among Chinese residents. China regulates VPN services, and companies operating VPNs inside China generally need government approval. Unauthorized VPN services have been targeted by the authorities, but ordinary tourists are rarely the target of enforcement. That said, you should be discreet. Do not use a VPN or other circumvention tool for political activism or anything that could attract official attention. The practical risk for normal tourist use is very low, but it is not zero. ===Mobile payments=== [[File:NFC Pay terminal, Alipay.jpg|thumb|right|An Alipay payment terminal]] China’s consumer economy relies almost entirely on mobile payments, and the normal way to pay for almost anything is by scanning a QR code with your phone. The two dominant payment platforms are '''Alipay''' and '''WeChat Pay'''. Alipay is widely used for payments, while WeChat Pay is built into [https://www.wechat.com/en WeChat], China’s dominant messaging app. Almost every merchant in China will have an Alipay terminal or QR code and/or a WeChat Pay QR code for you to scan and pay. You can link an overseas card to Alipay or WeChat Pay, though reliability varies widely by card. ====Travel-friendly credit and debit cards==== Foreign cards can be used with Alipay and WeChat Pay, but not every card works, regardless of whether they are on supposedly supported networks such as Visa or Mastercard. You should bring more than one card to China and from different issuers. Travel-oriented debit cards, such as '''[https://wise.com Wise]''' or '''[https://www.revolut.com Revolut]''' work better than mainstream cards. ''Don't assume your card will work''. If UnionPay credit or debit cards are available in your country, consider applying for them, as these are usually targeted specifically at people who travel to China regularly. ===Mini-programs=== Many Chinese services are accessed through '''mini-programs''' inside larger apps rather than through websites or standalone apps. The most important hosts are '''WeChat''' and '''Alipay'''. A mini-program opens inside the main app and can more-or-less do all the things a regular phone app can do. Some businesses require that you use a mini-program to interact with them. Many tourist attractions have their own mini-programs – these are extremely useful for making tourist-site reservations (where available). Some services that have standalone apps actually work better with their mini-programs instead. For example, '''DiDi''' – China's Uber – is often easier for foreign travellers to use through Alipay, because your payment is integrated and the standalone app (the China version, which you must use in China) can be quite persnickety about foreign cards. Mini-programs are far easier to find by searching in Chinese characters. Copy the Chinese name of thing you're interested in into the WeChat or Alipay search box, or scan the QR code posted at a site's entrance. When searching by name, particularly for tourist attractions, beware of mini-programs with similar names that are in fact unofficial services trying to sell you tours, etc. Both WeChat and Alipay include built-in translation features, though coverage is rough. Text in menus and customer-service chats may translate reasonably well, while pop-up notices and error messages may not. The Alipay translation option usually floats above the app and is easily tappable, while the WeChat translation is available through a menu at the top-right. ===Maps=== [[File:IllegalFlowerTribute1.jpg|thumb|right|Pour one out for Google China.]] Digital maps function differently in China compared to the rest of the world. China uses its own coordinate system, so foreign maps show almost everything in a bizarre offset from where they really are. This "shifted map" problem applies to Google Maps and most OpenStreetMap-based apps, so you'll need to use a Chinese map app instead. ''Google Maps is useless in China and should not be used''. Apple Maps is occasionally recommended on web forums, but given that it offers little more than Google other than an accurate coordinate system, it is mostly useless as well. The main local options are '''Amap''' (also called Gaode Maps) and '''Baidu Maps'''. Both have far better local data than Google Maps or Apple Maps, including public transport, restaurants, shops, hotels, attractions, road closures, and walking routes. ''Amap is usually the most useful choice for travellers'' because it offers an English interface and English map labels. That said, even with Amap, Chinese characters are important. Many places are easier (or even only possible) to find by searching for their Chinese names. Copy Chinese names from Wikivoyage, booking confirmations, attraction websites, etc., when searching. ===Social media=== [[File:Douyin user (cropped).jpg|thumb|right|upright|Looks familiar]] Much commerce in China takes place over social media, and influencers are often contracted by businesses to sell their products during livestreams. Unfortunately, foreign social media apps are blocked in China, which has its own parallel social media ecosystem instead. Even TikTok runs separate servers for its international and Chinese domestic versions, and content on one is not available on the other. If you can understand Chinese, social media is a good way to search for recommendations in the area you are visiting. The most popular social media platforms are '''[https://www.douyin.com/ Douyin]''' (the Chinese domestic version of TikTok) and '''[https://www.xiaohongshu.com/ Xiaohongshu]''' (called '''Rednote''' in English). Chinese social media sites require identity verification in order for you to register for an account, but in most cases, foreigners can register using their passport. Registration is usually not required just for viewing content, but is necessary if you want to bookmark, follow or post comments. ==Prepare== Prepare your phone, payments, and Internet access before arrival. Do not assume you can fix everything after you land: VPN websites may be blocked, app downloads may fail, cards may need verification, and some accounts may require SMS codes sent to an existing phone number. ===Bring the right cards=== Bring more than one credit or debit card, preferably from different issuers. A foreign Visa or Mastercard may work normally elsewhere in the world, but still fail when linked to Alipay or WeChat Pay. Travel-oriented debit cards, such as '''Wise''' or '''Revolut''', typically work better than mainstream cards. Know your card PINs, make sure your cards are enabled for overseas and online payments, and bring enough cash or ATM access to cover a few days if mobile payments fail. Cash is still legal tender in China, but it is much less convenient than mobile payment. ===Set up Alipay and WeChat Pay=== Install Alipay and WeChat before travelling to China. Link at least one foreign card to each app, complete any identity verification requested, and make sure you can receive SMS codes on the phone number attached to your accounts. Set up both apps rather than relying on only one. Alipay is often easier to use for everyday payments, but WeChat mini-programs (which use WeChat Pay) are usually preferred for reserving tickets at tourist attractions. If your SMS phone number doesn't work in China, then you should get a Chinese phone number once you arrive and then switch both apps to that. ''The Beijinger'' has [https://www.thebeijinger.com/blog/2024/08/26/expats-visitors-rejoice-upgrades-digital-payments-are-here an illustrated guide] to setting up Alipay and WeChat Pay. ===Set up VPNs=== {{infobox|Mullvad ain't bad|Mullvad is one of the most popular VPNs for circumventing the Great Firewall but it is by no means perfect. As of 2026, all Asian servers are blocked. Europe is painfully slow. Your best best bet is to connect to servers in the United States and Canada. If your connection to the United States is failing, connect to Canada. If Canada is failing, connect to the United States. Setting your obfuscation/anti-censorship settings to Shadowsocks normally gives the best results. All this can quickly change so you'll likely need to experiment with connections and settings. }} Set up any [[Internet access#VPN providers|VPN]] before arriving in China. VPN websites and downloads will almost certainly be blocked once you are inside the country. Be sure to test your VPN on all your devices before you arrive! If you are a propeller-hat you may have other workarounds, but this guide covers only VPNs. Not all VPNs work reliably in China. Performance changes frequently, and a VPN that works on one network, device, server, or day may fail on another. Paid VPNs are generally more plausible than free VPNs, but no provider should be treated as guaranteed. Post-secondary institutions often provide VPN to their staff and students for free, as do many other big institutions and companies for their employees. As of 2026, travellers report success with '''[https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]''' and '''[https://www.astrill.com/ Astrill]''', while Proton VPN rarely works and NordVPN does not work at all. Have more than one option. A sensible setup is one primary VPN, one backup VPN, and a roaming SIM or travel eSIM that can access blocked sites without using mainland Chinese internet routing. In theory, you may not need a VPN if you can tether your computer to your phone’s roaming connection. However, roaming plans often have data limits, which can make regular computer use expensive or impractical. Although paid services are more reliable, [https://digitalcruch.com/zh/free-vpns-china/ this list] of free VPNs can still be useful in emergency situations – it is generally preferable to access their mirror links rather than relying on the official websites. ===Arrange mobile data=== A working mobile data connection that accesses the Internet beyond the Great Firewall is one of the most useful things to have in China. There are two options: * '''Roaming from your home carrier''' — usually the easiest option, and often allows access to blocked foreign websites and apps because the traffic is routed through your home carrier. It can be expensive, depending on your plan. * '''A travel SIM or eSIM''' — often cheaper than home-carrier roaming and may also bypass the Great Firewall, depending on the provider and routing. As of 2026, [https://www.trip.com/things-to-do/detail/53873746 this Trip.com eSIM] is popular and works. Make sure your phone is unlocked before travelling. If you plan to use an eSIM, check that your phone supports arbitrary eSIMs and that your model is not region-locked in a way that disables it. {{Cautionbox|China has heavier network controls in [[Xinjiang]] and [[Tibet]]. Your roaming SIM may not work reliably in these regions without also enabling a China-ready VPN service.}} ===Install useful apps=== Install the apps you are likely to need before arriving. App stores, login pages, and verification systems can be harder to use in China. Useful apps include: * '''Alipay''' — payments, DiDi ride-hailing, transport, translation, mini-programs, and many travel services * '''WeChat''' — messaging, WeChat Pay, mini-programs, and many local services * '''Amap''' — the most useful map app for most foreign travellers in China. When you set up Amap and it asks for your country, ''be sure to select a country for which you will have SMS-message access in China!'' If you are planning to get a Chinese phone number, then you can say your country is China and bind your phone number later. If you don't select a country for which you have SMS access in China, the app will still work, but you will not be able to bind your phone number to sync to the desktop version of the app, and if you delete the app your saved places will be lost. You cannot change your country after you install the app, for only-China-would-know reasons. * '''MetroMan China''' – if you know the names of the metro stations, can provide more efficient metro directions than Amap. * '''Trip.com''' — as as of 2026, your best booking resource for hotels, trains, flights, and some attraction tickets (although WeChat mini-apps can be cheaper for attractions). * A '''translation app''' with offline Chinese support. Since this guide recommends using a roaming SIM or travel eSIM, '''Google Translate''' should work fine, but ''download offline Chinese'' anyway. You might download '''Baidu Translate''' just in case. '''Pleco''' is a useful Chinese/English dictionary, but not a fully-fledged translation app. * Your '''VPN or proxy apps'''. * Airline, hotel, banking, and password-manager apps you may need during the trip. You can install the Mainland China version of DiDi for ride-hailing, but using DiDi through the Alipay or WeChat mini-program is usually easier, as the standalone app has trouble with foreign payment methods. ====Weather forecasts==== For weather, '''[https://en.weather.com.cn Weather China]''', China's official weather service, is usually more accurate than foreign services, but as of 2026 it does not have an app and must be accessed through the website. If you can figure it out, the [https://www.weather.com.cn/ Chinese language version] is a lot more informative than the English language version (look at the Wikivoyage article or try asking AI for the Chinese name of the city you're interested in to paste into the search box). For English-native services, '''[https://apps.apple.com/us/app/weather/id1069513131 Apple's Weather app]''' on the iPhone is usually quite accurate in China, as it is sourced from a Chinese service called [https://www.qweather.com/ QWeather]. ===Set up a Chinese keyboard=== {{infobox|How Chinese type|Chinese has thousands of characters, but obviously keyboards do not have thousands of keys! In mainland China, most people type Chinese using Pinyin, where the Latin alphabet is used to write Mandarin sounds. For example, typing ''nihao'' brings up 你好 ("hello"), and the user chooses the correct characters from a list of suggestions. Many phones also support handwriting input, where users draw characters directly on the screen. This is slower for normal typing but useful when the user doesn't know how a character is pronounced. }} Set up a '''Chinese (Simplified)''' keyboard on your phone before travelling. Even if you don't speak Chinese, it can be useful when you hand your phone to a Chinese speaker for help. The most useful input methods are usually '''Pinyin''' and '''handwriting'''. Pinyin is the standard way mainland Chinese people type Chinese characters using the Latin alphabet, so it is useful when someone else is entering Chinese text for you. On iPhone, the Chinese (Simplified) Pinyin keyboard offers layout options such as QWERTY, AZERTY, and 10 Key; '''QWERTY''' is usually the safest choice for travellers, since it matches the normal Latin keyboard layout. Android phones have similar options. Also add '''Chinese (Simplified) Handwriting''' if available. Handwriting input lets someone draw characters directly on the screen, which can help with signs, names, addresses, and cases where copying text is not possible. Many Chinese like to use this, and you may find yourself using this as well (it can be fun). Choose Simplified Chinese rather than Traditional Chinese. Mainland China uses simplified characters, while Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau mostly use traditional characters. ===Save Chinese names and offline information=== Save important information before arrival, preferably both in English and Chinese. This includes hotel names and addresses, airport and train station names, attraction names, booking confirmations, emergency contacts, and the Chinese names of places you plan to visit. Chinese-character names are often needed for maps, taxi destinations, mini-program searches, restaurant lookup, and asking for help. For example, for food emergencies, save the word for noodles 面条 so you can quickly search in Amap. 馄饨 (wontons) and 饺子 (dumplings) might also come in handy. Searching for these in Chinese will give you far more results than searching in English. ==Upon arrival== ===Get a Chinese SIM=== {{infobox|How to SIM|As of 2026, foreigners are unable to acquire eSIMs in China and must purchase physical SIMs instead. If you plan on obtaining a Chinese phone number, this may require some planning: *If your phone does not have a physical SIM slot (such as a recent-model U.S. iPhones), then ''you will not be able to use a Chinese phone number'' on that phone. You'll need to use a burner phone with at least one physical slot for a Chinese SIM. *If you only have a single physical SIM slot, then your roaming SIM (either from your home carrier or a travel carrier) ''must'' be an eSIM in order to make room for the Chinese physical SIM, or else you'll have to manually swap out your SIMs each time you need to use them. *If you have two physical SIM slots, then you shouldn't have any issues.}} If your phone supports dual SIMs (for example, one physical SIM and multiple eSIMs), consider getting a mainland Chinese SIM in addition to your roaming SIM or travel eSIM. '''A Chinese phone number''' is extremely useful because many Chinese services are tied to SMS verification, including food delivery, mini-programs, and ticket reservations – foreign phone numbers are rarely recognized regardless of whether you are able to receive SMS messages in China. Set mobile data to the roaming SIM or travel eSIM, and set calls and text messages to the Chinese SIM. Buying a Chinese SIM requires passport registration. Airport kiosks for '''China Mobile''', '''China Unicom''', or '''China Telecom''' are usually the easiest places, but prices may be higher. For better prices, wait until you can go to an official store; in major cities, staff should be able to set you up quickly. There are also many unofficial mobile service shops, which will not be able to register a SIM for a foreigner, but the staff should happily point you to an official location. ===Test payments and withdraw cash=== [[File:Alipay payment 20160121 (cropped).jpg|thumb|right|Mission accomplished.]] Test Alipay and WeChat Pay before you need them for anything urgent. A hotel front desk is a good place to try a payment. If a payment fails, try another linked card or the other payment app. Failures can be caused by the card issuer, the app, identity verification, the merchant’s payment setup, or the type of transaction. It is much easier to troubleshoot this before you are in a rush. Withdraw a small amount of cash from an ATM as backup. Cash is still legal tender, but it is less convenient than mobile payment, and some merchants may have trouble making change. ==Go== ===Use your phone for local transport=== Set up local public-transport QR codes in WeChat or Alipay. Instead of physical cards, most Chinese cities have '''metro and bus cards''' inside WeChat or Alipay, which is extremely convenient. (Alipay tends to be more straightforward and easier to use.) Activating them may require passport verification (you can do this on your phone), but you should only have to do it once, even though you will need to activate a new transport card in each city. Test the transport code before rush hour or before making a timed connection! Some stations also sell paper tickets or accept cash, but QR-code payment is far easier once set up. It doesn't always work. Some transit systems, particularly small, bus-only ones, require a mainland Chinese ID card number to acquire a digital card. Others may allow passport registration but reject your application regardless, for mysterious reasons. There are usually backup means available. Some transit systems allow you to purchase a single ticket using Alipay or WeChat Pay without needing to use a card. And almost all systems will accept cash as a last resort, but make sure you have plenty of ¥1 notes, as change is rarely given. ===Use mini-programs for tickets and reservations=== [[File:WeChat Mini Program code example (cropped).svg|thumb|right|These specialized QR codes can be scanned with WeChat to open mini-programs.]] Many museums, scenic areas, restaurants, and local services use '''WeChat mini-programs''' for tickets and reservations. You can reserve in advance usually ''if you have a Chinese phone number'' from your Chinese SIM – this may save you a lot of time waiting in line. In WeChat, pull down from the main chat screen to open the mini-program area; this shows recently used mini-programs and a search box. You can also find mini-programs by scanning QR codes, searching WeChat, or following links from an organization’s official WeChat account. Search using Chinese characters whenever possible. English searches often fail or return unofficial results. Copy the Chinese name of the place you want to visit and paste it into the search box. Once you find the right mini-program, it should be saved in your recent mini-programs so you don't have to search for it again. ''Don't worry if you can't get this working''; almost all tourist attractions are lenient towards foreigners, and you can just show up, show your passport and buy a ticket, no problem. ===Use your passport at ticket checks=== China uses real-name registration for many tickets and reservations. Chinese citizens usually use their national ID cards for this; Hong Kong and Macau citizens use their Home Return Permit, Taiwanese citizens use their Taiwan Compatriot Pass, and foreign travellers use their passports. This applies to train tickets, many museums and tourist attractions, some ferry or long-distance bus tickets, and many reservations made through WeChat or Alipay mini-programs. You’ll probably need to carry your passport more often in China than you do in other countries. When booking, enter your name and passport number carefully – make sure what you enter matches your passport exactly. At the site or station, show your passport and you'll either collect a ticket or they'll just wave you on your way, no physical ticket needed. At train stations, you'll likely need to have your ticket inspected manually, as the automated gates are usually only set up to scan Chinese ID cards. There will be a manual inspection lane or window somewhere; look for a uniformed person amongst the gates. ===Use your phone to order food=== [[File:Luckin Coffee Kunming store.jpg|thumb|right|You must use an app or mini-program to order a coffee at Luckin.]] Many sit-down restaurants use digital ordering, where you scan a QR code using WeChat, and a page will pop up, allowing you to place your order and pay. Unfortunately, the menu is almost always in Chinese only. Some restaurants can provide you with physical menus and you can usually also place your order manually with the waitstaff (though it is highly unlikely that you will meet an English-speaking waiter). Nevertheless, restaurants often have pictures of their most popular dishes either in their menus or on a billboard somewhere inside, so you can just point to what you want, or take a photo of the dish with your phone and show the staff. Some chain-restaurants require (or practically require) that you use either a phone app or an Alipay/WeChat mini-program to order food. For example, KFC, ubiquitous in China, is nearly impossible to order without using either their phone app or a mini-program. McDonald's, on the other hand, provides convenient digital kiosks at their restaurants with menus in English, so you don't need to bother with your phone. {{PartOfTopic|Preparation|China}} {{usabletopic}} 06dq7pxjq33hpx18361khk5lbjgmp4d 5289025 5289022 2026-06-07T09:13:16Z Brycehughes 43226 /* Use your phone for local transport */ wording 5289025 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Where Everybody Looks at Screens (banner).jpg|caption=Passengers staring at their phones on the Shanghai Metro}} '''[[China]]''' presents a unique digital situation for travellers. On one hand, China is one of the most connected countries in the world: people are highly digitally literate, mobile payments are nearly universal, and internet access is widespread. On the other hand, the '''Great Firewall of China''' blocks many popular foreign websites and services, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Google, WhatsApp, Telegram, Wikipedia, and even our dear Wikivoyage. Moreover, foreign credit cards are rarely accepted. An unprepared traveller may arrive in China unable to use familiar apps or websites, pay easily for goods and services, or contact friends and family back home. Fortunately, there are ways around these problems. With preparation before arrival, and a few steps after you arrive in China, you can stay connected, access many of your usual websites and apps, keep in touch with people abroad, and use China’s mobile payment systems. This guide explains how to prepare before travelling and what to do once you arrive. {{cautionbox | This guide is about how to stay connected to the outside world while travelling in China. ''It is not a guide to maintaining privacy or data security in China''. If you handle sensitive information, research appropriate security precautions before travelling. }} ==Understand== ===VPNs=== China blocks access to many foreign websites and services through the '''Great Firewall of China'''. The Great Firewall normally works by inspecting Internet traffic going between China and the outside world, then blocking connections to banned websites and services. A '''virtual private network''' (VPN) routes your Internet connection through a server somewhere else. Instead of connecting directly from China to a blocked site, your phone or computer first makes an encrypted connection to a VPN server. Because that connection is encrypted, the Great Firewall should not be able to see that you are trying to reach a blocked site; it sees only the connection to the VPN server. The VPN server then connects to the blocked site for you and sends the data back through the encrypted connection. In China, a VPN may let you access sites and apps that are otherwise blocked. However, not all VPNs work reliably in China. The Great Firewall actively detects and disrupts many VPN connections, and performance can vary by provider, server, device, network, city, and even the time of day. ====Legality==== Using VPNs and other tools is common in practice, including among Chinese residents. China regulates VPN services, and companies operating VPNs inside China generally need government approval. Unauthorized VPN services have been targeted by the authorities, but ordinary tourists are rarely the target of enforcement. That said, you should be discreet. Do not use a VPN or other circumvention tool for political activism or anything that could attract official attention. The practical risk for normal tourist use is very low, but it is not zero. ===Mobile payments=== [[File:NFC Pay terminal, Alipay.jpg|thumb|right|An Alipay payment terminal]] China’s consumer economy relies almost entirely on mobile payments, and the normal way to pay for almost anything is by scanning a QR code with your phone. The two dominant payment platforms are '''Alipay''' and '''WeChat Pay'''. Alipay is widely used for payments, while WeChat Pay is built into [https://www.wechat.com/en WeChat], China’s dominant messaging app. Almost every merchant in China will have an Alipay terminal or QR code and/or a WeChat Pay QR code for you to scan and pay. You can link an overseas card to Alipay or WeChat Pay, though reliability varies widely by card. ====Travel-friendly credit and debit cards==== Foreign cards can be used with Alipay and WeChat Pay, but not every card works, regardless of whether they are on supposedly supported networks such as Visa or Mastercard. You should bring more than one card to China and from different issuers. Travel-oriented debit cards, such as '''[https://wise.com Wise]''' or '''[https://www.revolut.com Revolut]''' work better than mainstream cards. ''Don't assume your card will work''. If UnionPay credit or debit cards are available in your country, consider applying for them, as these are usually targeted specifically at people who travel to China regularly. ===Mini-programs=== Many Chinese services are accessed through '''mini-programs''' inside larger apps rather than through websites or standalone apps. The most important hosts are '''WeChat''' and '''Alipay'''. A mini-program opens inside the main app and can more-or-less do all the things a regular phone app can do. Some businesses require that you use a mini-program to interact with them. Many tourist attractions have their own mini-programs – these are extremely useful for making tourist-site reservations (where available). Some services that have standalone apps actually work better with their mini-programs instead. For example, '''DiDi''' – China's Uber – is often easier for foreign travellers to use through Alipay, because your payment is integrated and the standalone app (the China version, which you must use in China) can be quite persnickety about foreign cards. Mini-programs are far easier to find by searching in Chinese characters. Copy the Chinese name of thing you're interested in into the WeChat or Alipay search box, or scan the QR code posted at a site's entrance. When searching by name, particularly for tourist attractions, beware of mini-programs with similar names that are in fact unofficial services trying to sell you tours, etc. Both WeChat and Alipay include built-in translation features, though coverage is rough. Text in menus and customer-service chats may translate reasonably well, while pop-up notices and error messages may not. The Alipay translation option usually floats above the app and is easily tappable, while the WeChat translation is available through a menu at the top-right. ===Maps=== [[File:IllegalFlowerTribute1.jpg|thumb|right|Pour one out for Google China.]] Digital maps function differently in China compared to the rest of the world. China uses its own coordinate system, so foreign maps show almost everything in a bizarre offset from where they really are. This "shifted map" problem applies to Google Maps and most OpenStreetMap-based apps, so you'll need to use a Chinese map app instead. ''Google Maps is useless in China and should not be used''. Apple Maps is occasionally recommended on web forums, but given that it offers little more than Google other than an accurate coordinate system, it is mostly useless as well. The main local options are '''Amap''' (also called Gaode Maps) and '''Baidu Maps'''. Both have far better local data than Google Maps or Apple Maps, including public transport, restaurants, shops, hotels, attractions, road closures, and walking routes. ''Amap is usually the most useful choice for travellers'' because it offers an English interface and English map labels. That said, even with Amap, Chinese characters are important. Many places are easier (or even only possible) to find by searching for their Chinese names. Copy Chinese names from Wikivoyage, booking confirmations, attraction websites, etc., when searching. ===Social media=== [[File:Douyin user (cropped).jpg|thumb|right|upright|Looks familiar]] Much commerce in China takes place over social media, and influencers are often contracted by businesses to sell their products during livestreams. Unfortunately, foreign social media apps are blocked in China, which has its own parallel social media ecosystem instead. Even TikTok runs separate servers for its international and Chinese domestic versions, and content on one is not available on the other. If you can understand Chinese, social media is a good way to search for recommendations in the area you are visiting. The most popular social media platforms are '''[https://www.douyin.com/ Douyin]''' (the Chinese domestic version of TikTok) and '''[https://www.xiaohongshu.com/ Xiaohongshu]''' (called '''Rednote''' in English). Chinese social media sites require identity verification in order for you to register for an account, but in most cases, foreigners can register using their passport. Registration is usually not required just for viewing content, but is necessary if you want to bookmark, follow or post comments. ==Prepare== Prepare your phone, payments, and Internet access before arrival. Do not assume you can fix everything after you land: VPN websites may be blocked, app downloads may fail, cards may need verification, and some accounts may require SMS codes sent to an existing phone number. ===Bring the right cards=== Bring more than one credit or debit card, preferably from different issuers. A foreign Visa or Mastercard may work normally elsewhere in the world, but still fail when linked to Alipay or WeChat Pay. Travel-oriented debit cards, such as '''Wise''' or '''Revolut''', typically work better than mainstream cards. Know your card PINs, make sure your cards are enabled for overseas and online payments, and bring enough cash or ATM access to cover a few days if mobile payments fail. Cash is still legal tender in China, but it is much less convenient than mobile payment. ===Set up Alipay and WeChat Pay=== Install Alipay and WeChat before travelling to China. Link at least one foreign card to each app, complete any identity verification requested, and make sure you can receive SMS codes on the phone number attached to your accounts. Set up both apps rather than relying on only one. Alipay is often easier to use for everyday payments, but WeChat mini-programs (which use WeChat Pay) are usually preferred for reserving tickets at tourist attractions. If your SMS phone number doesn't work in China, then you should get a Chinese phone number once you arrive and then switch both apps to that. ''The Beijinger'' has [https://www.thebeijinger.com/blog/2024/08/26/expats-visitors-rejoice-upgrades-digital-payments-are-here an illustrated guide] to setting up Alipay and WeChat Pay. ===Set up VPNs=== {{infobox|Mullvad ain't bad|Mullvad is one of the most popular VPNs for circumventing the Great Firewall but it is by no means perfect. As of 2026, all Asian servers are blocked. Europe is painfully slow. Your best best bet is to connect to servers in the United States and Canada. If your connection to the United States is failing, connect to Canada. If Canada is failing, connect to the United States. Setting your obfuscation/anti-censorship settings to Shadowsocks normally gives the best results. All this can quickly change so you'll likely need to experiment with connections and settings. }} Set up any [[Internet access#VPN providers|VPN]] before arriving in China. VPN websites and downloads will almost certainly be blocked once you are inside the country. Be sure to test your VPN on all your devices before you arrive! If you are a propeller-hat you may have other workarounds, but this guide covers only VPNs. Not all VPNs work reliably in China. Performance changes frequently, and a VPN that works on one network, device, server, or day may fail on another. Paid VPNs are generally more plausible than free VPNs, but no provider should be treated as guaranteed. Post-secondary institutions often provide VPN to their staff and students for free, as do many other big institutions and companies for their employees. As of 2026, travellers report success with '''[https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]''' and '''[https://www.astrill.com/ Astrill]''', while Proton VPN rarely works and NordVPN does not work at all. Have more than one option. A sensible setup is one primary VPN, one backup VPN, and a roaming SIM or travel eSIM that can access blocked sites without using mainland Chinese internet routing. In theory, you may not need a VPN if you can tether your computer to your phone’s roaming connection. However, roaming plans often have data limits, which can make regular computer use expensive or impractical. Although paid services are more reliable, [https://digitalcruch.com/zh/free-vpns-china/ this list] of free VPNs can still be useful in emergency situations – it is generally preferable to access their mirror links rather than relying on the official websites. ===Arrange mobile data=== A working mobile data connection that accesses the Internet beyond the Great Firewall is one of the most useful things to have in China. There are two options: * '''Roaming from your home carrier''' — usually the easiest option, and often allows access to blocked foreign websites and apps because the traffic is routed through your home carrier. It can be expensive, depending on your plan. * '''A travel SIM or eSIM''' — often cheaper than home-carrier roaming and may also bypass the Great Firewall, depending on the provider and routing. As of 2026, [https://www.trip.com/things-to-do/detail/53873746 this Trip.com eSIM] is popular and works. Make sure your phone is unlocked before travelling. If you plan to use an eSIM, check that your phone supports arbitrary eSIMs and that your model is not region-locked in a way that disables it. {{Cautionbox|China has heavier network controls in [[Xinjiang]] and [[Tibet]]. Your roaming SIM may not work reliably in these regions without also enabling a China-ready VPN service.}} ===Install useful apps=== Install the apps you are likely to need before arriving. App stores, login pages, and verification systems can be harder to use in China. Useful apps include: * '''Alipay''' — payments, DiDi ride-hailing, transport, translation, mini-programs, and many travel services * '''WeChat''' — messaging, WeChat Pay, mini-programs, and many local services * '''Amap''' — the most useful map app for most foreign travellers in China. When you set up Amap and it asks for your country, ''be sure to select a country for which you will have SMS-message access in China!'' If you are planning to get a Chinese phone number, then you can say your country is China and bind your phone number later. If you don't select a country for which you have SMS access in China, the app will still work, but you will not be able to bind your phone number to sync to the desktop version of the app, and if you delete the app your saved places will be lost. You cannot change your country after you install the app, for only-China-would-know reasons. * '''MetroMan China''' – if you know the names of the metro stations, can provide more efficient metro directions than Amap. * '''Trip.com''' — as as of 2026, your best booking resource for hotels, trains, flights, and some attraction tickets (although WeChat mini-apps can be cheaper for attractions). * A '''translation app''' with offline Chinese support. Since this guide recommends using a roaming SIM or travel eSIM, '''Google Translate''' should work fine, but ''download offline Chinese'' anyway. You might download '''Baidu Translate''' just in case. '''Pleco''' is a useful Chinese/English dictionary, but not a fully-fledged translation app. * Your '''VPN or proxy apps'''. * Airline, hotel, banking, and password-manager apps you may need during the trip. You can install the Mainland China version of DiDi for ride-hailing, but using DiDi through the Alipay or WeChat mini-program is usually easier, as the standalone app has trouble with foreign payment methods. ====Weather forecasts==== For weather, '''[https://en.weather.com.cn Weather China]''', China's official weather service, is usually more accurate than foreign services, but as of 2026 it does not have an app and must be accessed through the website. If you can figure it out, the [https://www.weather.com.cn/ Chinese language version] is a lot more informative than the English language version (look at the Wikivoyage article or try asking AI for the Chinese name of the city you're interested in to paste into the search box). For English-native services, '''[https://apps.apple.com/us/app/weather/id1069513131 Apple's Weather app]''' on the iPhone is usually quite accurate in China, as it is sourced from a Chinese service called [https://www.qweather.com/ QWeather]. ===Set up a Chinese keyboard=== {{infobox|How Chinese type|Chinese has thousands of characters, but obviously keyboards do not have thousands of keys! In mainland China, most people type Chinese using Pinyin, where the Latin alphabet is used to write Mandarin sounds. For example, typing ''nihao'' brings up 你好 ("hello"), and the user chooses the correct characters from a list of suggestions. Many phones also support handwriting input, where users draw characters directly on the screen. This is slower for normal typing but useful when the user doesn't know how a character is pronounced. }} Set up a '''Chinese (Simplified)''' keyboard on your phone before travelling. Even if you don't speak Chinese, it can be useful when you hand your phone to a Chinese speaker for help. The most useful input methods are usually '''Pinyin''' and '''handwriting'''. Pinyin is the standard way mainland Chinese people type Chinese characters using the Latin alphabet, so it is useful when someone else is entering Chinese text for you. On iPhone, the Chinese (Simplified) Pinyin keyboard offers layout options such as QWERTY, AZERTY, and 10 Key; '''QWERTY''' is usually the safest choice for travellers, since it matches the normal Latin keyboard layout. Android phones have similar options. Also add '''Chinese (Simplified) Handwriting''' if available. Handwriting input lets someone draw characters directly on the screen, which can help with signs, names, addresses, and cases where copying text is not possible. Many Chinese like to use this, and you may find yourself using this as well (it can be fun). Choose Simplified Chinese rather than Traditional Chinese. Mainland China uses simplified characters, while Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau mostly use traditional characters. ===Save Chinese names and offline information=== Save important information before arrival, preferably both in English and Chinese. This includes hotel names and addresses, airport and train station names, attraction names, booking confirmations, emergency contacts, and the Chinese names of places you plan to visit. Chinese-character names are often needed for maps, taxi destinations, mini-program searches, restaurant lookup, and asking for help. For example, for food emergencies, save the word for noodles 面条 so you can quickly search in Amap. 馄饨 (wontons) and 饺子 (dumplings) might also come in handy. Searching for these in Chinese will give you far more results than searching in English. ==Upon arrival== ===Get a Chinese SIM=== {{infobox|How to SIM|As of 2026, foreigners are unable to acquire eSIMs in China and must purchase physical SIMs instead. If you plan on obtaining a Chinese phone number, this may require some planning: *If your phone does not have a physical SIM slot (such as a recent-model U.S. iPhones), then ''you will not be able to use a Chinese phone number'' on that phone. You'll need to use a burner phone with at least one physical slot for a Chinese SIM. *If you only have a single physical SIM slot, then your roaming SIM (either from your home carrier or a travel carrier) ''must'' be an eSIM in order to make room for the Chinese physical SIM, or else you'll have to manually swap out your SIMs each time you need to use them. *If you have two physical SIM slots, then you shouldn't have any issues.}} If your phone supports dual SIMs (for example, one physical SIM and multiple eSIMs), consider getting a mainland Chinese SIM in addition to your roaming SIM or travel eSIM. '''A Chinese phone number''' is extremely useful because many Chinese services are tied to SMS verification, including food delivery, mini-programs, and ticket reservations – foreign phone numbers are rarely recognized regardless of whether you are able to receive SMS messages in China. Set mobile data to the roaming SIM or travel eSIM, and set calls and text messages to the Chinese SIM. Buying a Chinese SIM requires passport registration. Airport kiosks for '''China Mobile''', '''China Unicom''', or '''China Telecom''' are usually the easiest places, but prices may be higher. For better prices, wait until you can go to an official store; in major cities, staff should be able to set you up quickly. There are also many unofficial mobile service shops, which will not be able to register a SIM for a foreigner, but the staff should happily point you to an official location. ===Test payments and withdraw cash=== [[File:Alipay payment 20160121 (cropped).jpg|thumb|right|Mission accomplished.]] Test Alipay and WeChat Pay before you need them for anything urgent. A hotel front desk is a good place to try a payment. If a payment fails, try another linked card or the other payment app. Failures can be caused by the card issuer, the app, identity verification, the merchant’s payment setup, or the type of transaction. It is much easier to troubleshoot this before you are in a rush. Withdraw a small amount of cash from an ATM as backup. Cash is still legal tender, but it is less convenient than mobile payment, and some merchants may have trouble making change. ==Go== ===Use your phone for local transport=== Set up local public-transport QR codes in WeChat or Alipay. Instead of physical cards, most Chinese cities have '''metro and bus cards''' inside WeChat or Alipay, which is extremely convenient. (Alipay tends to be more straightforward and easier to use.) Activating them may require passport verification (you can do this on your phone), but you should only have to do it once, even though you will need to activate a new transit card in each city. Test the transport code before rush hour or before making a timed connection! Although some stations also sell paper tickets or accept cash, QR-code payment is far easier once set up. It doesn't always work. Some transit systems, particularly small, bus-only ones, require a mainland Chinese ID card number to acquire a digital transit card. Others may allow passport registration but reject your application regardless, for mysterious reasons. There are usually backup means available. Some transit systems allow you to purchase a single ticket using Alipay or WeChat Pay without needing to use a card. And almost all systems will accept cash as a last resort, but make sure you have plenty of ¥1 notes, as change is rarely given. ===Use mini-programs for tickets and reservations=== [[File:WeChat Mini Program code example (cropped).svg|thumb|right|These specialized QR codes can be scanned with WeChat to open mini-programs.]] Many museums, scenic areas, restaurants, and local services use '''WeChat mini-programs''' for tickets and reservations. You can reserve in advance usually ''if you have a Chinese phone number'' from your Chinese SIM – this may save you a lot of time waiting in line. In WeChat, pull down from the main chat screen to open the mini-program area; this shows recently used mini-programs and a search box. You can also find mini-programs by scanning QR codes, searching WeChat, or following links from an organization’s official WeChat account. Search using Chinese characters whenever possible. English searches often fail or return unofficial results. Copy the Chinese name of the place you want to visit and paste it into the search box. Once you find the right mini-program, it should be saved in your recent mini-programs so you don't have to search for it again. ''Don't worry if you can't get this working''; almost all tourist attractions are lenient towards foreigners, and you can just show up, show your passport and buy a ticket, no problem. ===Use your passport at ticket checks=== China uses real-name registration for many tickets and reservations. Chinese citizens usually use their national ID cards for this; Hong Kong and Macau citizens use their Home Return Permit, Taiwanese citizens use their Taiwan Compatriot Pass, and foreign travellers use their passports. This applies to train tickets, many museums and tourist attractions, some ferry or long-distance bus tickets, and many reservations made through WeChat or Alipay mini-programs. You’ll probably need to carry your passport more often in China than you do in other countries. When booking, enter your name and passport number carefully – make sure what you enter matches your passport exactly. At the site or station, show your passport and you'll either collect a ticket or they'll just wave you on your way, no physical ticket needed. At train stations, you'll likely need to have your ticket inspected manually, as the automated gates are usually only set up to scan Chinese ID cards. There will be a manual inspection lane or window somewhere; look for a uniformed person amongst the gates. ===Use your phone to order food=== [[File:Luckin Coffee Kunming store.jpg|thumb|right|You must use an app or mini-program to order a coffee at Luckin.]] Many sit-down restaurants use digital ordering, where you scan a QR code using WeChat, and a page will pop up, allowing you to place your order and pay. Unfortunately, the menu is almost always in Chinese only. Some restaurants can provide you with physical menus and you can usually also place your order manually with the waitstaff (though it is highly unlikely that you will meet an English-speaking waiter). Nevertheless, restaurants often have pictures of their most popular dishes either in their menus or on a billboard somewhere inside, so you can just point to what you want, or take a photo of the dish with your phone and show the staff. Some chain-restaurants require (or practically require) that you use either a phone app or an Alipay/WeChat mini-program to order food. For example, KFC, ubiquitous in China, is nearly impossible to order without using either their phone app or a mini-program. McDonald's, on the other hand, provides convenient digital kiosks at their restaurants with menus in English, so you don't need to bother with your phone. {{PartOfTopic|Preparation|China}} {{usabletopic}} hk332lzz1symeo5g2fzot1u5agugjjt 5289026 5289025 2026-06-07T09:13:46Z Brycehughes 43226 /* Use your phone for local transport */ ditto 5289026 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Where Everybody Looks at Screens (banner).jpg|caption=Passengers staring at their phones on the Shanghai Metro}} '''[[China]]''' presents a unique digital situation for travellers. On one hand, China is one of the most connected countries in the world: people are highly digitally literate, mobile payments are nearly universal, and internet access is widespread. On the other hand, the '''Great Firewall of China''' blocks many popular foreign websites and services, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Google, WhatsApp, Telegram, Wikipedia, and even our dear Wikivoyage. Moreover, foreign credit cards are rarely accepted. An unprepared traveller may arrive in China unable to use familiar apps or websites, pay easily for goods and services, or contact friends and family back home. Fortunately, there are ways around these problems. With preparation before arrival, and a few steps after you arrive in China, you can stay connected, access many of your usual websites and apps, keep in touch with people abroad, and use China’s mobile payment systems. This guide explains how to prepare before travelling and what to do once you arrive. {{cautionbox | This guide is about how to stay connected to the outside world while travelling in China. ''It is not a guide to maintaining privacy or data security in China''. If you handle sensitive information, research appropriate security precautions before travelling. }} ==Understand== ===VPNs=== China blocks access to many foreign websites and services through the '''Great Firewall of China'''. The Great Firewall normally works by inspecting Internet traffic going between China and the outside world, then blocking connections to banned websites and services. A '''virtual private network''' (VPN) routes your Internet connection through a server somewhere else. Instead of connecting directly from China to a blocked site, your phone or computer first makes an encrypted connection to a VPN server. Because that connection is encrypted, the Great Firewall should not be able to see that you are trying to reach a blocked site; it sees only the connection to the VPN server. The VPN server then connects to the blocked site for you and sends the data back through the encrypted connection. In China, a VPN may let you access sites and apps that are otherwise blocked. However, not all VPNs work reliably in China. The Great Firewall actively detects and disrupts many VPN connections, and performance can vary by provider, server, device, network, city, and even the time of day. ====Legality==== Using VPNs and other tools is common in practice, including among Chinese residents. China regulates VPN services, and companies operating VPNs inside China generally need government approval. Unauthorized VPN services have been targeted by the authorities, but ordinary tourists are rarely the target of enforcement. That said, you should be discreet. Do not use a VPN or other circumvention tool for political activism or anything that could attract official attention. The practical risk for normal tourist use is very low, but it is not zero. ===Mobile payments=== [[File:NFC Pay terminal, Alipay.jpg|thumb|right|An Alipay payment terminal]] China’s consumer economy relies almost entirely on mobile payments, and the normal way to pay for almost anything is by scanning a QR code with your phone. The two dominant payment platforms are '''Alipay''' and '''WeChat Pay'''. Alipay is widely used for payments, while WeChat Pay is built into [https://www.wechat.com/en WeChat], China’s dominant messaging app. Almost every merchant in China will have an Alipay terminal or QR code and/or a WeChat Pay QR code for you to scan and pay. You can link an overseas card to Alipay or WeChat Pay, though reliability varies widely by card. ====Travel-friendly credit and debit cards==== Foreign cards can be used with Alipay and WeChat Pay, but not every card works, regardless of whether they are on supposedly supported networks such as Visa or Mastercard. You should bring more than one card to China and from different issuers. Travel-oriented debit cards, such as '''[https://wise.com Wise]''' or '''[https://www.revolut.com Revolut]''' work better than mainstream cards. ''Don't assume your card will work''. If UnionPay credit or debit cards are available in your country, consider applying for them, as these are usually targeted specifically at people who travel to China regularly. ===Mini-programs=== Many Chinese services are accessed through '''mini-programs''' inside larger apps rather than through websites or standalone apps. The most important hosts are '''WeChat''' and '''Alipay'''. A mini-program opens inside the main app and can more-or-less do all the things a regular phone app can do. Some businesses require that you use a mini-program to interact with them. Many tourist attractions have their own mini-programs – these are extremely useful for making tourist-site reservations (where available). Some services that have standalone apps actually work better with their mini-programs instead. For example, '''DiDi''' – China's Uber – is often easier for foreign travellers to use through Alipay, because your payment is integrated and the standalone app (the China version, which you must use in China) can be quite persnickety about foreign cards. Mini-programs are far easier to find by searching in Chinese characters. Copy the Chinese name of thing you're interested in into the WeChat or Alipay search box, or scan the QR code posted at a site's entrance. When searching by name, particularly for tourist attractions, beware of mini-programs with similar names that are in fact unofficial services trying to sell you tours, etc. Both WeChat and Alipay include built-in translation features, though coverage is rough. Text in menus and customer-service chats may translate reasonably well, while pop-up notices and error messages may not. The Alipay translation option usually floats above the app and is easily tappable, while the WeChat translation is available through a menu at the top-right. ===Maps=== [[File:IllegalFlowerTribute1.jpg|thumb|right|Pour one out for Google China.]] Digital maps function differently in China compared to the rest of the world. China uses its own coordinate system, so foreign maps show almost everything in a bizarre offset from where they really are. This "shifted map" problem applies to Google Maps and most OpenStreetMap-based apps, so you'll need to use a Chinese map app instead. ''Google Maps is useless in China and should not be used''. Apple Maps is occasionally recommended on web forums, but given that it offers little more than Google other than an accurate coordinate system, it is mostly useless as well. The main local options are '''Amap''' (also called Gaode Maps) and '''Baidu Maps'''. Both have far better local data than Google Maps or Apple Maps, including public transport, restaurants, shops, hotels, attractions, road closures, and walking routes. ''Amap is usually the most useful choice for travellers'' because it offers an English interface and English map labels. That said, even with Amap, Chinese characters are important. Many places are easier (or even only possible) to find by searching for their Chinese names. Copy Chinese names from Wikivoyage, booking confirmations, attraction websites, etc., when searching. ===Social media=== [[File:Douyin user (cropped).jpg|thumb|right|upright|Looks familiar]] Much commerce in China takes place over social media, and influencers are often contracted by businesses to sell their products during livestreams. Unfortunately, foreign social media apps are blocked in China, which has its own parallel social media ecosystem instead. Even TikTok runs separate servers for its international and Chinese domestic versions, and content on one is not available on the other. If you can understand Chinese, social media is a good way to search for recommendations in the area you are visiting. The most popular social media platforms are '''[https://www.douyin.com/ Douyin]''' (the Chinese domestic version of TikTok) and '''[https://www.xiaohongshu.com/ Xiaohongshu]''' (called '''Rednote''' in English). Chinese social media sites require identity verification in order for you to register for an account, but in most cases, foreigners can register using their passport. Registration is usually not required just for viewing content, but is necessary if you want to bookmark, follow or post comments. ==Prepare== Prepare your phone, payments, and Internet access before arrival. Do not assume you can fix everything after you land: VPN websites may be blocked, app downloads may fail, cards may need verification, and some accounts may require SMS codes sent to an existing phone number. ===Bring the right cards=== Bring more than one credit or debit card, preferably from different issuers. A foreign Visa or Mastercard may work normally elsewhere in the world, but still fail when linked to Alipay or WeChat Pay. Travel-oriented debit cards, such as '''Wise''' or '''Revolut''', typically work better than mainstream cards. Know your card PINs, make sure your cards are enabled for overseas and online payments, and bring enough cash or ATM access to cover a few days if mobile payments fail. Cash is still legal tender in China, but it is much less convenient than mobile payment. ===Set up Alipay and WeChat Pay=== Install Alipay and WeChat before travelling to China. Link at least one foreign card to each app, complete any identity verification requested, and make sure you can receive SMS codes on the phone number attached to your accounts. Set up both apps rather than relying on only one. Alipay is often easier to use for everyday payments, but WeChat mini-programs (which use WeChat Pay) are usually preferred for reserving tickets at tourist attractions. If your SMS phone number doesn't work in China, then you should get a Chinese phone number once you arrive and then switch both apps to that. ''The Beijinger'' has [https://www.thebeijinger.com/blog/2024/08/26/expats-visitors-rejoice-upgrades-digital-payments-are-here an illustrated guide] to setting up Alipay and WeChat Pay. ===Set up VPNs=== {{infobox|Mullvad ain't bad|Mullvad is one of the most popular VPNs for circumventing the Great Firewall but it is by no means perfect. As of 2026, all Asian servers are blocked. Europe is painfully slow. Your best best bet is to connect to servers in the United States and Canada. If your connection to the United States is failing, connect to Canada. If Canada is failing, connect to the United States. Setting your obfuscation/anti-censorship settings to Shadowsocks normally gives the best results. All this can quickly change so you'll likely need to experiment with connections and settings. }} Set up any [[Internet access#VPN providers|VPN]] before arriving in China. VPN websites and downloads will almost certainly be blocked once you are inside the country. Be sure to test your VPN on all your devices before you arrive! If you are a propeller-hat you may have other workarounds, but this guide covers only VPNs. Not all VPNs work reliably in China. Performance changes frequently, and a VPN that works on one network, device, server, or day may fail on another. Paid VPNs are generally more plausible than free VPNs, but no provider should be treated as guaranteed. Post-secondary institutions often provide VPN to their staff and students for free, as do many other big institutions and companies for their employees. As of 2026, travellers report success with '''[https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]''' and '''[https://www.astrill.com/ Astrill]''', while Proton VPN rarely works and NordVPN does not work at all. Have more than one option. A sensible setup is one primary VPN, one backup VPN, and a roaming SIM or travel eSIM that can access blocked sites without using mainland Chinese internet routing. In theory, you may not need a VPN if you can tether your computer to your phone’s roaming connection. However, roaming plans often have data limits, which can make regular computer use expensive or impractical. Although paid services are more reliable, [https://digitalcruch.com/zh/free-vpns-china/ this list] of free VPNs can still be useful in emergency situations – it is generally preferable to access their mirror links rather than relying on the official websites. ===Arrange mobile data=== A working mobile data connection that accesses the Internet beyond the Great Firewall is one of the most useful things to have in China. There are two options: * '''Roaming from your home carrier''' — usually the easiest option, and often allows access to blocked foreign websites and apps because the traffic is routed through your home carrier. It can be expensive, depending on your plan. * '''A travel SIM or eSIM''' — often cheaper than home-carrier roaming and may also bypass the Great Firewall, depending on the provider and routing. As of 2026, [https://www.trip.com/things-to-do/detail/53873746 this Trip.com eSIM] is popular and works. Make sure your phone is unlocked before travelling. If you plan to use an eSIM, check that your phone supports arbitrary eSIMs and that your model is not region-locked in a way that disables it. {{Cautionbox|China has heavier network controls in [[Xinjiang]] and [[Tibet]]. Your roaming SIM may not work reliably in these regions without also enabling a China-ready VPN service.}} ===Install useful apps=== Install the apps you are likely to need before arriving. App stores, login pages, and verification systems can be harder to use in China. Useful apps include: * '''Alipay''' — payments, DiDi ride-hailing, transport, translation, mini-programs, and many travel services * '''WeChat''' — messaging, WeChat Pay, mini-programs, and many local services * '''Amap''' — the most useful map app for most foreign travellers in China. When you set up Amap and it asks for your country, ''be sure to select a country for which you will have SMS-message access in China!'' If you are planning to get a Chinese phone number, then you can say your country is China and bind your phone number later. If you don't select a country for which you have SMS access in China, the app will still work, but you will not be able to bind your phone number to sync to the desktop version of the app, and if you delete the app your saved places will be lost. You cannot change your country after you install the app, for only-China-would-know reasons. * '''MetroMan China''' – if you know the names of the metro stations, can provide more efficient metro directions than Amap. * '''Trip.com''' — as as of 2026, your best booking resource for hotels, trains, flights, and some attraction tickets (although WeChat mini-apps can be cheaper for attractions). * A '''translation app''' with offline Chinese support. Since this guide recommends using a roaming SIM or travel eSIM, '''Google Translate''' should work fine, but ''download offline Chinese'' anyway. You might download '''Baidu Translate''' just in case. '''Pleco''' is a useful Chinese/English dictionary, but not a fully-fledged translation app. * Your '''VPN or proxy apps'''. * Airline, hotel, banking, and password-manager apps you may need during the trip. You can install the Mainland China version of DiDi for ride-hailing, but using DiDi through the Alipay or WeChat mini-program is usually easier, as the standalone app has trouble with foreign payment methods. ====Weather forecasts==== For weather, '''[https://en.weather.com.cn Weather China]''', China's official weather service, is usually more accurate than foreign services, but as of 2026 it does not have an app and must be accessed through the website. If you can figure it out, the [https://www.weather.com.cn/ Chinese language version] is a lot more informative than the English language version (look at the Wikivoyage article or try asking AI for the Chinese name of the city you're interested in to paste into the search box). For English-native services, '''[https://apps.apple.com/us/app/weather/id1069513131 Apple's Weather app]''' on the iPhone is usually quite accurate in China, as it is sourced from a Chinese service called [https://www.qweather.com/ QWeather]. ===Set up a Chinese keyboard=== {{infobox|How Chinese type|Chinese has thousands of characters, but obviously keyboards do not have thousands of keys! In mainland China, most people type Chinese using Pinyin, where the Latin alphabet is used to write Mandarin sounds. For example, typing ''nihao'' brings up 你好 ("hello"), and the user chooses the correct characters from a list of suggestions. Many phones also support handwriting input, where users draw characters directly on the screen. This is slower for normal typing but useful when the user doesn't know how a character is pronounced. }} Set up a '''Chinese (Simplified)''' keyboard on your phone before travelling. Even if you don't speak Chinese, it can be useful when you hand your phone to a Chinese speaker for help. The most useful input methods are usually '''Pinyin''' and '''handwriting'''. Pinyin is the standard way mainland Chinese people type Chinese characters using the Latin alphabet, so it is useful when someone else is entering Chinese text for you. On iPhone, the Chinese (Simplified) Pinyin keyboard offers layout options such as QWERTY, AZERTY, and 10 Key; '''QWERTY''' is usually the safest choice for travellers, since it matches the normal Latin keyboard layout. Android phones have similar options. Also add '''Chinese (Simplified) Handwriting''' if available. Handwriting input lets someone draw characters directly on the screen, which can help with signs, names, addresses, and cases where copying text is not possible. Many Chinese like to use this, and you may find yourself using this as well (it can be fun). Choose Simplified Chinese rather than Traditional Chinese. Mainland China uses simplified characters, while Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau mostly use traditional characters. ===Save Chinese names and offline information=== Save important information before arrival, preferably both in English and Chinese. This includes hotel names and addresses, airport and train station names, attraction names, booking confirmations, emergency contacts, and the Chinese names of places you plan to visit. Chinese-character names are often needed for maps, taxi destinations, mini-program searches, restaurant lookup, and asking for help. For example, for food emergencies, save the word for noodles 面条 so you can quickly search in Amap. 馄饨 (wontons) and 饺子 (dumplings) might also come in handy. Searching for these in Chinese will give you far more results than searching in English. ==Upon arrival== ===Get a Chinese SIM=== {{infobox|How to SIM|As of 2026, foreigners are unable to acquire eSIMs in China and must purchase physical SIMs instead. If you plan on obtaining a Chinese phone number, this may require some planning: *If your phone does not have a physical SIM slot (such as a recent-model U.S. iPhones), then ''you will not be able to use a Chinese phone number'' on that phone. You'll need to use a burner phone with at least one physical slot for a Chinese SIM. *If you only have a single physical SIM slot, then your roaming SIM (either from your home carrier or a travel carrier) ''must'' be an eSIM in order to make room for the Chinese physical SIM, or else you'll have to manually swap out your SIMs each time you need to use them. *If you have two physical SIM slots, then you shouldn't have any issues.}} If your phone supports dual SIMs (for example, one physical SIM and multiple eSIMs), consider getting a mainland Chinese SIM in addition to your roaming SIM or travel eSIM. '''A Chinese phone number''' is extremely useful because many Chinese services are tied to SMS verification, including food delivery, mini-programs, and ticket reservations – foreign phone numbers are rarely recognized regardless of whether you are able to receive SMS messages in China. Set mobile data to the roaming SIM or travel eSIM, and set calls and text messages to the Chinese SIM. Buying a Chinese SIM requires passport registration. Airport kiosks for '''China Mobile''', '''China Unicom''', or '''China Telecom''' are usually the easiest places, but prices may be higher. For better prices, wait until you can go to an official store; in major cities, staff should be able to set you up quickly. There are also many unofficial mobile service shops, which will not be able to register a SIM for a foreigner, but the staff should happily point you to an official location. ===Test payments and withdraw cash=== [[File:Alipay payment 20160121 (cropped).jpg|thumb|right|Mission accomplished.]] Test Alipay and WeChat Pay before you need them for anything urgent. A hotel front desk is a good place to try a payment. If a payment fails, try another linked card or the other payment app. Failures can be caused by the card issuer, the app, identity verification, the merchant’s payment setup, or the type of transaction. It is much easier to troubleshoot this before you are in a rush. Withdraw a small amount of cash from an ATM as backup. Cash is still legal tender, but it is less convenient than mobile payment, and some merchants may have trouble making change. ==Go== ===Use your phone for local transport=== Set up local public-transport QR codes in WeChat or Alipay. Instead of physical cards, most Chinese cities have '''metro and bus cards''' inside WeChat or Alipay, which is extremely convenient. (Alipay tends to be more straightforward and easier to use.) Activating them may require passport verification (you can do this on your phone), but you should only have to do it once, even though you will need to activate a new transit card in each city. Test it before rush hour or before making a timed connection! Although some stations also sell paper tickets or accept cash, QR-code payment is far easier once set up. It doesn't always work. Some transit systems, particularly small, bus-only ones, require a mainland Chinese ID card number to acquire a digital transit card. Others may allow passport registration but reject your application regardless, for mysterious reasons. There are usually backup means available. Some transit systems allow you to purchase a single ticket using Alipay or WeChat Pay without needing to use a card. And almost all systems will accept cash as a last resort, but make sure you have plenty of ¥1 notes, as change is rarely given. ===Use mini-programs for tickets and reservations=== [[File:WeChat Mini Program code example (cropped).svg|thumb|right|These specialized QR codes can be scanned with WeChat to open mini-programs.]] Many museums, scenic areas, restaurants, and local services use '''WeChat mini-programs''' for tickets and reservations. You can reserve in advance usually ''if you have a Chinese phone number'' from your Chinese SIM – this may save you a lot of time waiting in line. In WeChat, pull down from the main chat screen to open the mini-program area; this shows recently used mini-programs and a search box. You can also find mini-programs by scanning QR codes, searching WeChat, or following links from an organization’s official WeChat account. Search using Chinese characters whenever possible. English searches often fail or return unofficial results. Copy the Chinese name of the place you want to visit and paste it into the search box. Once you find the right mini-program, it should be saved in your recent mini-programs so you don't have to search for it again. ''Don't worry if you can't get this working''; almost all tourist attractions are lenient towards foreigners, and you can just show up, show your passport and buy a ticket, no problem. ===Use your passport at ticket checks=== China uses real-name registration for many tickets and reservations. Chinese citizens usually use their national ID cards for this; Hong Kong and Macau citizens use their Home Return Permit, Taiwanese citizens use their Taiwan Compatriot Pass, and foreign travellers use their passports. This applies to train tickets, many museums and tourist attractions, some ferry or long-distance bus tickets, and many reservations made through WeChat or Alipay mini-programs. You’ll probably need to carry your passport more often in China than you do in other countries. When booking, enter your name and passport number carefully – make sure what you enter matches your passport exactly. At the site or station, show your passport and you'll either collect a ticket or they'll just wave you on your way, no physical ticket needed. At train stations, you'll likely need to have your ticket inspected manually, as the automated gates are usually only set up to scan Chinese ID cards. There will be a manual inspection lane or window somewhere; look for a uniformed person amongst the gates. ===Use your phone to order food=== [[File:Luckin Coffee Kunming store.jpg|thumb|right|You must use an app or mini-program to order a coffee at Luckin.]] Many sit-down restaurants use digital ordering, where you scan a QR code using WeChat, and a page will pop up, allowing you to place your order and pay. Unfortunately, the menu is almost always in Chinese only. Some restaurants can provide you with physical menus and you can usually also place your order manually with the waitstaff (though it is highly unlikely that you will meet an English-speaking waiter). Nevertheless, restaurants often have pictures of their most popular dishes either in their menus or on a billboard somewhere inside, so you can just point to what you want, or take a photo of the dish with your phone and show the staff. Some chain-restaurants require (or practically require) that you use either a phone app or an Alipay/WeChat mini-program to order food. For example, KFC, ubiquitous in China, is nearly impossible to order without using either their phone app or a mini-program. McDonald's, on the other hand, provides convenient digital kiosks at their restaurants with menus in English, so you don't need to bother with your phone. {{PartOfTopic|Preparation|China}} {{usabletopic}} dw59ws34olm9wwhj8ifdfqwh3cnbx7e 5289027 5289026 2026-06-07T09:17:33Z Brycehughes 43226 /* Use your phone for local transport */ wording 5289027 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Where Everybody Looks at Screens (banner).jpg|caption=Passengers staring at their phones on the Shanghai Metro}} '''[[China]]''' presents a unique digital situation for travellers. On one hand, China is one of the most connected countries in the world: people are highly digitally literate, mobile payments are nearly universal, and internet access is widespread. On the other hand, the '''Great Firewall of China''' blocks many popular foreign websites and services, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Google, WhatsApp, Telegram, Wikipedia, and even our dear Wikivoyage. Moreover, foreign credit cards are rarely accepted. An unprepared traveller may arrive in China unable to use familiar apps or websites, pay easily for goods and services, or contact friends and family back home. Fortunately, there are ways around these problems. With preparation before arrival, and a few steps after you arrive in China, you can stay connected, access many of your usual websites and apps, keep in touch with people abroad, and use China’s mobile payment systems. This guide explains how to prepare before travelling and what to do once you arrive. {{cautionbox | This guide is about how to stay connected to the outside world while travelling in China. ''It is not a guide to maintaining privacy or data security in China''. If you handle sensitive information, research appropriate security precautions before travelling. }} ==Understand== ===VPNs=== China blocks access to many foreign websites and services through the '''Great Firewall of China'''. The Great Firewall normally works by inspecting Internet traffic going between China and the outside world, then blocking connections to banned websites and services. A '''virtual private network''' (VPN) routes your Internet connection through a server somewhere else. Instead of connecting directly from China to a blocked site, your phone or computer first makes an encrypted connection to a VPN server. Because that connection is encrypted, the Great Firewall should not be able to see that you are trying to reach a blocked site; it sees only the connection to the VPN server. The VPN server then connects to the blocked site for you and sends the data back through the encrypted connection. In China, a VPN may let you access sites and apps that are otherwise blocked. However, not all VPNs work reliably in China. The Great Firewall actively detects and disrupts many VPN connections, and performance can vary by provider, server, device, network, city, and even the time of day. ====Legality==== Using VPNs and other tools is common in practice, including among Chinese residents. China regulates VPN services, and companies operating VPNs inside China generally need government approval. Unauthorized VPN services have been targeted by the authorities, but ordinary tourists are rarely the target of enforcement. That said, you should be discreet. Do not use a VPN or other circumvention tool for political activism or anything that could attract official attention. The practical risk for normal tourist use is very low, but it is not zero. ===Mobile payments=== [[File:NFC Pay terminal, Alipay.jpg|thumb|right|An Alipay payment terminal]] China’s consumer economy relies almost entirely on mobile payments, and the normal way to pay for almost anything is by scanning a QR code with your phone. The two dominant payment platforms are '''Alipay''' and '''WeChat Pay'''. Alipay is widely used for payments, while WeChat Pay is built into [https://www.wechat.com/en WeChat], China’s dominant messaging app. Almost every merchant in China will have an Alipay terminal or QR code and/or a WeChat Pay QR code for you to scan and pay. You can link an overseas card to Alipay or WeChat Pay, though reliability varies widely by card. ====Travel-friendly credit and debit cards==== Foreign cards can be used with Alipay and WeChat Pay, but not every card works, regardless of whether they are on supposedly supported networks such as Visa or Mastercard. You should bring more than one card to China and from different issuers. Travel-oriented debit cards, such as '''[https://wise.com Wise]''' or '''[https://www.revolut.com Revolut]''' work better than mainstream cards. ''Don't assume your card will work''. If UnionPay credit or debit cards are available in your country, consider applying for them, as these are usually targeted specifically at people who travel to China regularly. ===Mini-programs=== Many Chinese services are accessed through '''mini-programs''' inside larger apps rather than through websites or standalone apps. The most important hosts are '''WeChat''' and '''Alipay'''. A mini-program opens inside the main app and can more-or-less do all the things a regular phone app can do. Some businesses require that you use a mini-program to interact with them. Many tourist attractions have their own mini-programs – these are extremely useful for making tourist-site reservations (where available). Some services that have standalone apps actually work better with their mini-programs instead. For example, '''DiDi''' – China's Uber – is often easier for foreign travellers to use through Alipay, because your payment is integrated and the standalone app (the China version, which you must use in China) can be quite persnickety about foreign cards. Mini-programs are far easier to find by searching in Chinese characters. Copy the Chinese name of thing you're interested in into the WeChat or Alipay search box, or scan the QR code posted at a site's entrance. When searching by name, particularly for tourist attractions, beware of mini-programs with similar names that are in fact unofficial services trying to sell you tours, etc. Both WeChat and Alipay include built-in translation features, though coverage is rough. Text in menus and customer-service chats may translate reasonably well, while pop-up notices and error messages may not. The Alipay translation option usually floats above the app and is easily tappable, while the WeChat translation is available through a menu at the top-right. ===Maps=== [[File:IllegalFlowerTribute1.jpg|thumb|right|Pour one out for Google China.]] Digital maps function differently in China compared to the rest of the world. China uses its own coordinate system, so foreign maps show almost everything in a bizarre offset from where they really are. This "shifted map" problem applies to Google Maps and most OpenStreetMap-based apps, so you'll need to use a Chinese map app instead. ''Google Maps is useless in China and should not be used''. Apple Maps is occasionally recommended on web forums, but given that it offers little more than Google other than an accurate coordinate system, it is mostly useless as well. The main local options are '''Amap''' (also called Gaode Maps) and '''Baidu Maps'''. Both have far better local data than Google Maps or Apple Maps, including public transport, restaurants, shops, hotels, attractions, road closures, and walking routes. ''Amap is usually the most useful choice for travellers'' because it offers an English interface and English map labels. That said, even with Amap, Chinese characters are important. Many places are easier (or even only possible) to find by searching for their Chinese names. Copy Chinese names from Wikivoyage, booking confirmations, attraction websites, etc., when searching. ===Social media=== [[File:Douyin user (cropped).jpg|thumb|right|upright|Looks familiar]] Much commerce in China takes place over social media, and influencers are often contracted by businesses to sell their products during livestreams. Unfortunately, foreign social media apps are blocked in China, which has its own parallel social media ecosystem instead. Even TikTok runs separate servers for its international and Chinese domestic versions, and content on one is not available on the other. If you can understand Chinese, social media is a good way to search for recommendations in the area you are visiting. The most popular social media platforms are '''[https://www.douyin.com/ Douyin]''' (the Chinese domestic version of TikTok) and '''[https://www.xiaohongshu.com/ Xiaohongshu]''' (called '''Rednote''' in English). Chinese social media sites require identity verification in order for you to register for an account, but in most cases, foreigners can register using their passport. Registration is usually not required just for viewing content, but is necessary if you want to bookmark, follow or post comments. ==Prepare== Prepare your phone, payments, and Internet access before arrival. Do not assume you can fix everything after you land: VPN websites may be blocked, app downloads may fail, cards may need verification, and some accounts may require SMS codes sent to an existing phone number. ===Bring the right cards=== Bring more than one credit or debit card, preferably from different issuers. A foreign Visa or Mastercard may work normally elsewhere in the world, but still fail when linked to Alipay or WeChat Pay. Travel-oriented debit cards, such as '''Wise''' or '''Revolut''', typically work better than mainstream cards. Know your card PINs, make sure your cards are enabled for overseas and online payments, and bring enough cash or ATM access to cover a few days if mobile payments fail. Cash is still legal tender in China, but it is much less convenient than mobile payment. ===Set up Alipay and WeChat Pay=== Install Alipay and WeChat before travelling to China. Link at least one foreign card to each app, complete any identity verification requested, and make sure you can receive SMS codes on the phone number attached to your accounts. Set up both apps rather than relying on only one. Alipay is often easier to use for everyday payments, but WeChat mini-programs (which use WeChat Pay) are usually preferred for reserving tickets at tourist attractions. If your SMS phone number doesn't work in China, then you should get a Chinese phone number once you arrive and then switch both apps to that. ''The Beijinger'' has [https://www.thebeijinger.com/blog/2024/08/26/expats-visitors-rejoice-upgrades-digital-payments-are-here an illustrated guide] to setting up Alipay and WeChat Pay. ===Set up VPNs=== {{infobox|Mullvad ain't bad|Mullvad is one of the most popular VPNs for circumventing the Great Firewall but it is by no means perfect. As of 2026, all Asian servers are blocked. Europe is painfully slow. Your best best bet is to connect to servers in the United States and Canada. If your connection to the United States is failing, connect to Canada. If Canada is failing, connect to the United States. Setting your obfuscation/anti-censorship settings to Shadowsocks normally gives the best results. All this can quickly change so you'll likely need to experiment with connections and settings. }} Set up any [[Internet access#VPN providers|VPN]] before arriving in China. VPN websites and downloads will almost certainly be blocked once you are inside the country. Be sure to test your VPN on all your devices before you arrive! If you are a propeller-hat you may have other workarounds, but this guide covers only VPNs. Not all VPNs work reliably in China. Performance changes frequently, and a VPN that works on one network, device, server, or day may fail on another. Paid VPNs are generally more plausible than free VPNs, but no provider should be treated as guaranteed. Post-secondary institutions often provide VPN to their staff and students for free, as do many other big institutions and companies for their employees. As of 2026, travellers report success with '''[https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]''' and '''[https://www.astrill.com/ Astrill]''', while Proton VPN rarely works and NordVPN does not work at all. Have more than one option. A sensible setup is one primary VPN, one backup VPN, and a roaming SIM or travel eSIM that can access blocked sites without using mainland Chinese internet routing. In theory, you may not need a VPN if you can tether your computer to your phone’s roaming connection. However, roaming plans often have data limits, which can make regular computer use expensive or impractical. Although paid services are more reliable, [https://digitalcruch.com/zh/free-vpns-china/ this list] of free VPNs can still be useful in emergency situations – it is generally preferable to access their mirror links rather than relying on the official websites. ===Arrange mobile data=== A working mobile data connection that accesses the Internet beyond the Great Firewall is one of the most useful things to have in China. There are two options: * '''Roaming from your home carrier''' — usually the easiest option, and often allows access to blocked foreign websites and apps because the traffic is routed through your home carrier. It can be expensive, depending on your plan. * '''A travel SIM or eSIM''' — often cheaper than home-carrier roaming and may also bypass the Great Firewall, depending on the provider and routing. As of 2026, [https://www.trip.com/things-to-do/detail/53873746 this Trip.com eSIM] is popular and works. Make sure your phone is unlocked before travelling. If you plan to use an eSIM, check that your phone supports arbitrary eSIMs and that your model is not region-locked in a way that disables it. {{Cautionbox|China has heavier network controls in [[Xinjiang]] and [[Tibet]]. Your roaming SIM may not work reliably in these regions without also enabling a China-ready VPN service.}} ===Install useful apps=== Install the apps you are likely to need before arriving. App stores, login pages, and verification systems can be harder to use in China. Useful apps include: * '''Alipay''' — payments, DiDi ride-hailing, transport, translation, mini-programs, and many travel services * '''WeChat''' — messaging, WeChat Pay, mini-programs, and many local services * '''Amap''' — the most useful map app for most foreign travellers in China. When you set up Amap and it asks for your country, ''be sure to select a country for which you will have SMS-message access in China!'' If you are planning to get a Chinese phone number, then you can say your country is China and bind your phone number later. If you don't select a country for which you have SMS access in China, the app will still work, but you will not be able to bind your phone number to sync to the desktop version of the app, and if you delete the app your saved places will be lost. You cannot change your country after you install the app, for only-China-would-know reasons. * '''MetroMan China''' – if you know the names of the metro stations, can provide more efficient metro directions than Amap. * '''Trip.com''' — as as of 2026, your best booking resource for hotels, trains, flights, and some attraction tickets (although WeChat mini-apps can be cheaper for attractions). * A '''translation app''' with offline Chinese support. Since this guide recommends using a roaming SIM or travel eSIM, '''Google Translate''' should work fine, but ''download offline Chinese'' anyway. You might download '''Baidu Translate''' just in case. '''Pleco''' is a useful Chinese/English dictionary, but not a fully-fledged translation app. * Your '''VPN or proxy apps'''. * Airline, hotel, banking, and password-manager apps you may need during the trip. You can install the Mainland China version of DiDi for ride-hailing, but using DiDi through the Alipay or WeChat mini-program is usually easier, as the standalone app has trouble with foreign payment methods. ====Weather forecasts==== For weather, '''[https://en.weather.com.cn Weather China]''', China's official weather service, is usually more accurate than foreign services, but as of 2026 it does not have an app and must be accessed through the website. If you can figure it out, the [https://www.weather.com.cn/ Chinese language version] is a lot more informative than the English language version (look at the Wikivoyage article or try asking AI for the Chinese name of the city you're interested in to paste into the search box). For English-native services, '''[https://apps.apple.com/us/app/weather/id1069513131 Apple's Weather app]''' on the iPhone is usually quite accurate in China, as it is sourced from a Chinese service called [https://www.qweather.com/ QWeather]. ===Set up a Chinese keyboard=== {{infobox|How Chinese type|Chinese has thousands of characters, but obviously keyboards do not have thousands of keys! In mainland China, most people type Chinese using Pinyin, where the Latin alphabet is used to write Mandarin sounds. For example, typing ''nihao'' brings up 你好 ("hello"), and the user chooses the correct characters from a list of suggestions. Many phones also support handwriting input, where users draw characters directly on the screen. This is slower for normal typing but useful when the user doesn't know how a character is pronounced. }} Set up a '''Chinese (Simplified)''' keyboard on your phone before travelling. Even if you don't speak Chinese, it can be useful when you hand your phone to a Chinese speaker for help. The most useful input methods are usually '''Pinyin''' and '''handwriting'''. Pinyin is the standard way mainland Chinese people type Chinese characters using the Latin alphabet, so it is useful when someone else is entering Chinese text for you. On iPhone, the Chinese (Simplified) Pinyin keyboard offers layout options such as QWERTY, AZERTY, and 10 Key; '''QWERTY''' is usually the safest choice for travellers, since it matches the normal Latin keyboard layout. Android phones have similar options. Also add '''Chinese (Simplified) Handwriting''' if available. Handwriting input lets someone draw characters directly on the screen, which can help with signs, names, addresses, and cases where copying text is not possible. Many Chinese like to use this, and you may find yourself using this as well (it can be fun). Choose Simplified Chinese rather than Traditional Chinese. Mainland China uses simplified characters, while Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau mostly use traditional characters. ===Save Chinese names and offline information=== Save important information before arrival, preferably both in English and Chinese. This includes hotel names and addresses, airport and train station names, attraction names, booking confirmations, emergency contacts, and the Chinese names of places you plan to visit. Chinese-character names are often needed for maps, taxi destinations, mini-program searches, restaurant lookup, and asking for help. For example, for food emergencies, save the word for noodles 面条 so you can quickly search in Amap. 馄饨 (wontons) and 饺子 (dumplings) might also come in handy. Searching for these in Chinese will give you far more results than searching in English. ==Upon arrival== ===Get a Chinese SIM=== {{infobox|How to SIM|As of 2026, foreigners are unable to acquire eSIMs in China and must purchase physical SIMs instead. If you plan on obtaining a Chinese phone number, this may require some planning: *If your phone does not have a physical SIM slot (such as a recent-model U.S. iPhones), then ''you will not be able to use a Chinese phone number'' on that phone. You'll need to use a burner phone with at least one physical slot for a Chinese SIM. *If you only have a single physical SIM slot, then your roaming SIM (either from your home carrier or a travel carrier) ''must'' be an eSIM in order to make room for the Chinese physical SIM, or else you'll have to manually swap out your SIMs each time you need to use them. *If you have two physical SIM slots, then you shouldn't have any issues.}} If your phone supports dual SIMs (for example, one physical SIM and multiple eSIMs), consider getting a mainland Chinese SIM in addition to your roaming SIM or travel eSIM. '''A Chinese phone number''' is extremely useful because many Chinese services are tied to SMS verification, including food delivery, mini-programs, and ticket reservations – foreign phone numbers are rarely recognized regardless of whether you are able to receive SMS messages in China. Set mobile data to the roaming SIM or travel eSIM, and set calls and text messages to the Chinese SIM. Buying a Chinese SIM requires passport registration. Airport kiosks for '''China Mobile''', '''China Unicom''', or '''China Telecom''' are usually the easiest places, but prices may be higher. For better prices, wait until you can go to an official store; in major cities, staff should be able to set you up quickly. There are also many unofficial mobile service shops, which will not be able to register a SIM for a foreigner, but the staff should happily point you to an official location. ===Test payments and withdraw cash=== [[File:Alipay payment 20160121 (cropped).jpg|thumb|right|Mission accomplished.]] Test Alipay and WeChat Pay before you need them for anything urgent. A hotel front desk is a good place to try a payment. If a payment fails, try another linked card or the other payment app. Failures can be caused by the card issuer, the app, identity verification, the merchant’s payment setup, or the type of transaction. It is much easier to troubleshoot this before you are in a rush. Withdraw a small amount of cash from an ATM as backup. Cash is still legal tender, but it is less convenient than mobile payment, and some merchants may have trouble making change. ==Go== ===Use your phone for local transport=== Set up local public-transport QR codes in WeChat or Alipay. Instead of physical cards, most Chinese cities have '''metro and bus cards''' inside WeChat or Alipay, which is extremely convenient. (Alipay tends to be more straightforward and easier to use.) Activating them may require passport verification (you can do this on your phone), but you should only have to do it once, even though you will need to activate a new transit card in each city. Test it before rush hour or before making a timed connection! Although some stations also sell paper tickets or accept cash, QR-code payment is far easier once set up. It doesn't always work. Some transit systems, particularly small, bus-only ones, require a mainland Chinese ID card number to acquire a digital transit card. Others may allow passport registration but reject your application regardless, for mysterious reasons. There are usually backup means available. Some transit systems allow you to purchase a single ticket using Alipay or WeChat Pay without needing to use a card. And almost all systems will accept cash as a last resort, but make sure you have enough ¥1 notes, as change is rarely given. ===Use mini-programs for tickets and reservations=== [[File:WeChat Mini Program code example (cropped).svg|thumb|right|These specialized QR codes can be scanned with WeChat to open mini-programs.]] Many museums, scenic areas, restaurants, and local services use '''WeChat mini-programs''' for tickets and reservations. You can reserve in advance usually ''if you have a Chinese phone number'' from your Chinese SIM – this may save you a lot of time waiting in line. In WeChat, pull down from the main chat screen to open the mini-program area; this shows recently used mini-programs and a search box. You can also find mini-programs by scanning QR codes, searching WeChat, or following links from an organization’s official WeChat account. Search using Chinese characters whenever possible. English searches often fail or return unofficial results. Copy the Chinese name of the place you want to visit and paste it into the search box. Once you find the right mini-program, it should be saved in your recent mini-programs so you don't have to search for it again. ''Don't worry if you can't get this working''; almost all tourist attractions are lenient towards foreigners, and you can just show up, show your passport and buy a ticket, no problem. ===Use your passport at ticket checks=== China uses real-name registration for many tickets and reservations. Chinese citizens usually use their national ID cards for this; Hong Kong and Macau citizens use their Home Return Permit, Taiwanese citizens use their Taiwan Compatriot Pass, and foreign travellers use their passports. This applies to train tickets, many museums and tourist attractions, some ferry or long-distance bus tickets, and many reservations made through WeChat or Alipay mini-programs. You’ll probably need to carry your passport more often in China than you do in other countries. When booking, enter your name and passport number carefully – make sure what you enter matches your passport exactly. At the site or station, show your passport and you'll either collect a ticket or they'll just wave you on your way, no physical ticket needed. At train stations, you'll likely need to have your ticket inspected manually, as the automated gates are usually only set up to scan Chinese ID cards. There will be a manual inspection lane or window somewhere; look for a uniformed person amongst the gates. ===Use your phone to order food=== [[File:Luckin Coffee Kunming store.jpg|thumb|right|You must use an app or mini-program to order a coffee at Luckin.]] Many sit-down restaurants use digital ordering, where you scan a QR code using WeChat, and a page will pop up, allowing you to place your order and pay. Unfortunately, the menu is almost always in Chinese only. Some restaurants can provide you with physical menus and you can usually also place your order manually with the waitstaff (though it is highly unlikely that you will meet an English-speaking waiter). Nevertheless, restaurants often have pictures of their most popular dishes either in their menus or on a billboard somewhere inside, so you can just point to what you want, or take a photo of the dish with your phone and show the staff. Some chain-restaurants require (or practically require) that you use either a phone app or an Alipay/WeChat mini-program to order food. For example, KFC, ubiquitous in China, is nearly impossible to order without using either their phone app or a mini-program. McDonald's, on the other hand, provides convenient digital kiosks at their restaurants with menus in English, so you don't need to bother with your phone. {{PartOfTopic|Preparation|China}} {{usabletopic}} 111cx6rds9fbrug2kfieu0gdrreidm0 2 218016 5288953 5288697 2026-06-06T23:57:19Z MichaelGintz 2415262 5288953 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Indianapolisbanner-night.jpg|caption=The downtown canal at night|alt=A pathway next to the water with lights on either side}} '''Indianapolis''' is the capital of [[Indiana]] and also the state’s largest city. Efforts to beautify and modernize the city have brought Indianapolis into the 21st&nbsp;century as a world-class destination for everything from business meetings and trade conventions to backpackers making their way across the States. [[File:DT INDY 10-03-2010 JASSSMIT.JPG|alt=The Indianapolis skyline|thumb|Indianapolis began a project of downtown beautification in the 1990s—the skyline is seen here in 2010]] Indianapolis is widely hailed as the "Racing Capital of the World" because of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indy&nbsp;500 and Brickyard&nbsp;400 at the Brickyard, and as the "Amateur Sports Capital of America" for hosting the NCAA Hall of Champions. The city has several attractions outside of sports, including museums, a large zoo, over 100 ethnic restaurants, several arts and historic districts, and a revitalized downtown. Although Indy has been mocked with the epithet "India-noplace", visitors will encounter a mix of a large metropolitan city and a simple [[Midwest]]ern community. You will find beautiful architecture, monuments, and pristine cornfields in the Circle City. ==Understand== [[File:Indianapolis-indiana-from-above.jpg|alt=An aerial photograph of downtown Indianapolis|thumb|Indianapolis' downtown is cut through by the non-navigable waters of the White River]] The population is roughly 882,000 (2022), making it the 16th largest city in the United States, and the metro area has about 2&nbsp;million (#34). When Indianapolis was founded, it was expected to be a "Great Inland Port", but the White River turned out to be non-navigable most of the year. The pay-off is that this desire for a port left the city with a gorgeous canal district, though the canal itself is only useful for recreational kayaks and paddleboats. Today, Indianapolis is known as the "Crossroads of America" due to its centrality in America's Interstate Highway System. In general, travel in and through Indianapolis is safe, clean, and logical. Visitors can always find something to do without becoming overwhelmed at a sprawling metropolis. In a few minutes, you can go from a sleepy and peaceful cornfield to a vibrant downtown. City planning is intelligible to outsiders with a grid system broken up by a few major diagonal streets, a large beltway loop (I-465), and a general lack of gridlock and traffic. ==Get in== ===By train=== * {{see | name='''Indianapolis Union Station'''| alt= | url=https://www.amtrak.com/content/amtrak/en-us/stations/ind.html | address=350 South Illinois Street | lat=39.7625 | long=-86.1602 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A historic, and underused, grand station that has the distinction of being the first Union station. Most of the building has now been converted to other uses, including a hotel. Trains depart from southern end of the station, there is a small waiting room as well as ticket offices. }} **{{go|name='''Amtrak'''|alt=|url=https://www.amtrak.com/content/amtrak/en-us/stations/ind.html|address=350 South Illinois Street|lat=NA|long=NA|directions=|price=|content=Operates trains throughout the [[United States of America]].}} Route stopping in Indianapolis: *** '''[https://www.amtrak.com/cardinal-train Cardinal]''' operating three trips weekly between [[Chicago]] and [[New York City]]. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|39.76833|-86.15806|zoom=10|name=Indianapolis and Marion County. There are several "included cities" within this area that retain some independence, but for purposes of travel the only noticeable difference might be speed limits. Zoom in thrice to get a sense of the navigable portion of downtown.}} Outside of the walkable Downtown and some Cultural Districts, you'll need a vehicle to navigate the urban sprawl. The public bus system is fairly clean and efficient but routes are sometimes complex, and substantial portions of the metro area are inaccessible. Outside of peak hours, waits can be prohibitively long. Bike lanes alongside major roads have been constructed in the early 2010s, so cyclists will be sharing the road. ===By bike=== The [https://indyculturaltrail.org/ Indianapolis Cultural Trail] was built through several years in the early 21st century and takes riders through downtown providing signs with Indianapolis history; public art dots many stops and you will be guided past several restaurants and local businesses. [https://www.pacersbikeshare.org/ Indiana Pacers Bikeshare] provides free bike-sharing rides for up to 30 minutes at a time for all Marion County residents. For non-residents, ordinary bikes are $2 per ride + $0.20 per minute, and e-bikes are $5 + $0.25 per minute. With a bike you can easily navigate within and between the following neighborhoods in and around downtown Indianapolis: [[File:Fountain Square Theatre in Indianapolis.jpg|alt=|thumb|The Fountain Square district is built around the historic Fountain Square Theatre. You can now get barbeque and go duckpin bowling in the structure.]] *{{marker|type=buy|name='''Downtown'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. Say more about downtown here. ALSO HOME TO MASSAVE A hop skip and a jump from the Circle, Mass Ave has gone through an amazing rebirth to become one of the coolest shopping areas in town full of local shops. *{{marker|type=buy|name='''[http://www.fountainsquareindy.com/ Fountain Square]'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A historical area about a mile from downtown Indy, to the Southeast. Mainly comprising of antique, thrift and art shops. ==Enjoy== ===Landmarks=== [[File:Downtown Indianapolis panorama, 2015.jpg|alt=|thumb|The sun rising over downtown]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Capitol'''| alt= | url=https://www.in.gov/idoa/statehouse/home/ | address=200 W Washington St | lat=39.7689 | long=-86.1625 | directions=just west of Monument Circle | price=Free. Vehicles can be parked in nearby garages or at metered spots. Automobiles that violate the metered time policy risk receiving a ticket and having their automobiles towed | wikipedia=Indiana Statehouse | image=Capitol del Estado de Indiana, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 04.jpg | wikidata=Q1661319 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Completed in 1888, this is the hub for Indiana's state government, housing the Governor's office, the state legislature (State Senate and Indiana General Assembly) and the State Supreme Court. The first state capital was in the [[Southern Indiana]] town of [[Corydon]], and in 1825 it was moved to Indianapolis. Featuring Italian Renaissance, Greek, and Corinthian design, the building is made from primarily of Indiana limestone. Look up while in the Rotunda to see the amazing German stained glass window, take a guided or personal tour, or observe the government at work. }} *{{see | name='''Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument'''| alt= | url=https://www.in.gov/iwm/soldiers-and-sailors-monument/ | address=1 Monument Cir | lat=39.7687 | long=-86.1579 | directions=The center of the city | price=Fees for elevator: adults $3.00, elderly (65 and over): free, youngsters (12 and under): no charge. Free for US military personnel and veterans. There is no fee to walk the steps. During business hours, elevator tickets are available for purchase at the Monument Gift Shop | wikipedia=Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument (Indianapolis) | image=Monument Circle, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.jpg | wikidata=Q1748884 | lastedit=2024-10-4 | content=This is the well-known monument in the center of the city. It is only fifteen feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty, having been built in 1902. The monument's sculpted depictions of gory Civil War fights and emancipated slaves are powerful. With Miss Liberty facing south, she defends the north from the confederate. The Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War museum is located in the basement, and visitors can ride the tower to the top for a view of the city. The grounds on the Monument are a wonderful representation of the city itself; they combine the calm of quietly roaring water and verdant grass with the energy of Downtown. It's also a great place to people watch. Additionally, there's a tiny gift shop. William Henry Harrison, the first Governor of the Indiana Territory and the United States President for a single month, is depicted on a statue at the base. The south steps are closed for renovation until November 2025, costing $10 million. }} *{{see | name='''Indiana War Memorial & Museum'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/ | address=55 E Michigan St | lat=39.7735 | long=-86.157 | directions=Slightly north, Downtown | price=Admission to the museum is free | wikidata=Q2439742 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=This pillared structure has a war museum, an elaborate auditorium, and a shrine honoring World War I troops who lost their lives. }} *{{see | name='''Scottish Rite Cathedral'''| alt= | url=https://aasr-indy.org/ | address=650 N Meridian St | lat=39.7762 | long=-86.1585 | directions=slightly north, Downtown | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish Rite Cathedral (Indianapolis) | image=Catedral de tradición escocesa, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 02.jpg | wikidata=Q7437949 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=It is the largest Scottish Rite cathedral in the world and a masterpiece of architecture. Take a tour, investigate the enormous pipe organ, the floating dance floor, the hand-crafted art glass windows, discover the mystery surrounding Freemasonry, and stop by the cafe for a bite to eat. }} *{{see | name='''The American Legion National Headquarters'''| alt= | url=https://www.legion.org/ | address=700 N Pennsylvania St | lat=39.777167 | long=-86.155738 | directions=northside of downtown | price=Free or paid parking | wikidata=Q468865 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Situated in the heart of downtown Indy with a beautiful mall that reminds one of D.C. Check out the museum that features hundreds of World War I & II posters and artifacts, a diorama of [[w:Jessica Lynch|Jessica Lynch]]'s rescue, explore the grounds and learn about the Legion's history. }} *{{see | name='''Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/explore/medal-of-honor-memorial/ | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.7703 | long=-86.169 | directions=westside of Downtown | price=Free | wikidata=Q6805056 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Monument that is part of White River State Park that pays tribute to over 3,000 Medal of Honor recipients. Ranges from Civil War through modern day clashes. It is made up of 27 curved glass walls, each {{ft|7–10}} high, and etched with the names. It's quite breathtaking—especially at night. }} * {{see | name='''Indiana 9/11 Memorial'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/explore/indiana-9-11-memorial/ | address=421 W Ohio St | lat=39.7704 | long=-86.1657 | directions= | price=Free | wikipedia=Indiana 9/11 Memorial | image=Project 9-11 Indianapolis.jpg | wikidata=Q7248980 | lastedit=2024-01-16 | content= }} ===Museums=== [[File:Indiana War Memorial at night.jpg|alt=|thumb|300px|The colossal Indiana War Memorial]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Museum'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianamuseum.org/ | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.769 | long=-86.1693 | directions=Westside of Downtown | price=Adult $19, senior (60+) $17, youth $13, child under 3 free | wikipedia=Indiana State Museum | wikidata=Q6023430 | lastedit=2024-09-20 | content=One of the most exquisite residences in the nation is the new state museum. Discover Indiana's history, from dinosaurs and fossil discoveries to the American Civil War, World War II, and the present. Discover a hall honoring well-known Hoosiers, take advantage of the IMAX theater and special events, and stroll about White River State Park's grounds to see the sculpture garden honoring Indiana's counties. A must-watch. The little gift shop offers plush toys, gourmet beverages, unusual candies, and trinkets with Indiana themes. With its seasonal menus and freshly made soups, salads, and sandwiches, the Farmers Market Café offers a menu that pays homage to Indiana's past as a supplier of local, fresh produce. The famed chicken velvet soup is served at the historic L.S. Ayres Tea Room. }} *{{see | name='''James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home & Visitor Center'''| alt= | url=https://rileymuseumhome.org/ | address=528 Lockerbie St | lat=39.773 | long=-86.1475 | directions=eastside of Downtown | price=Adult $10, student #1, children 6 and under free | wikidata=Q6145403 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=See the house where the renowned writer and poet spent the latter part of his life. "The Children's Poet" is how Riley is recognized. One of the best maintained Victorian homes in the nation, the house has been featured in ''Architectural Digest''. The house has never undergone renovations; every piece of furniture, up to the carpet, is original and dates back to 1916. See his possessions, collection of antiques, and background by taking a tour. }} *{{see | name='''Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site'''| alt= | url=https://bhpsite.org/ | address=1230 N Delaware St | lat=39.784 | long=-86.1543 | directions=Northside of Downtown | price=Adult $16, veteran $15, senior $15, college student $11, child $11, pre-school free | wikidata=Q4888783 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=The only Indianan to become U.S. president to date, holding office for one term (1889–1893). See this hero of the Civil War's stunning 1875 home, constructed in the Italianate Victorian style. It has three stories and is crammed with personal items, artwork, political mementos, and antiques. There is a First Ladies display in the carriage house at the back. They host entertaining events all year long, many of which feature outstanding reenactments of historical individuals from Indiana. A naturalization ceremony, tours of Victorian murder mysteries, and the always entertaining croquet competition are all held there. }} *{{see | name='''Newfields'''| alt=Indianapolis Museum of Art | url=https://discovernewfields.org | address=4000 Michigan Rd | lat=39.8259 | long=-86.1855 | directions=10&nbsp;minutes north of Downtown | price=Adult $20, child 5 & under free, youth 6-17 $13, Access Pass $2 (certain areas of the IMA campus are free, including the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres, the IMA Café, Museum Store, and Five Brushstrokes) | wikipedia=Indianapolis Museum of Art | image=Indy-Art-Museum-Szmurlo.jpg | wikidata=Q1117704 | content=Reopened following a multi-million dollar renovation it's one of the most beautiful buildings in the country for fine art. Founded in 1883, this is one of the oldest art museums in the country, boasting over 50,000 pieces of art and an amazing public art library. Exhibits include Contemporary Art, European Art, Asian Art, African Art, Textile Art, and more. Rotating and traveling exhibits are abundant. Experience hands-on exhibits where you can create your own art, walk the amazing grounds exploring the sculptures, gardens, and homes, shop at the museum store and eat and drink at the IMA Cafe and Wolfgang Puck's namesake restaurant—this is the city he got his start in. On Thursdays and Fridays 5–9PM, the museum has a special "happy hour" for hip and artsy socialites at Puck's featuring cocktails and hors d'oeurves. Also on the grounds are the Oldfields–Lilly House & Gardens, the former estate of the Lillys. They are located on {{convert|26|acre|ha}} grounds with a 22-room mansion, gardens, and museum. }} * {{see | name='''Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library'''| alt= | url=https://www.vonnegutlibrary.org/ | address=543 Indiana Avenue | lat=39.7725 | long=-86.163333 | directions= | price=Adults $12, seniors/educators/military $10, students $8. Free on first M of each month | wikidata=Q6447107 | lastedit=2024-10-04 | content=A museum dedicated to literary and cultural contributions of author and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut. }} *{{see | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum'''| alt= | url=http://www.indyracingmuseum.org/ | address=4790 W 16th St | lat=39.7902 | long=-86.2306 | directions=Speedway, Westside | price=$10 adult, $5 child, 5 and under free | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum | image=IMS HOF Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q6023901 | content=The IMA is the home of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, the Indianapolis 500. On the IMS grounds you will find the Museum which houses the world's largest collection of racing, classic, and antique cars. Check out 30 of the Indy 500 winner's cars, a 20-minute film about the history of the race, a souvenir shop and cafe. If you would like to see more of the track facilities, you also can pay a few bucks to ride in a bus around the actual race track (at about 40&nbsp;miles or 65&nbsp;km an hour). Or, for the more adventurous souls, you can try the Indy Racing Experience Driving Program where you can ride in a 2-seater Indy Car and experience speeds around the track up to 180&nbsp;miles or 300&nbsp;km an hour. }} [[File:Indiana State House 2.jpg|thumb|250px|The Indiana State House]] ===Festivals and events=== [[File:Indianapolis mini-marathon at the Motor Speedway, 2018.jpg|alt=A row of runners|thumb|Runners in the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon reaching the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2018. This is one of several preludes to the Indy 500.]] *''May'', {{listing | name='''The Indianapolis 500'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/events/indy500 | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=One of the largest sporting events in the world. The westside of the city and Speedway gets swamped and if you like big crowds, loud cars, and tailgating, this is for you. One of several events leading up to it is the largest mini-marathon in the world, so if you're extra ambitious, come early and run for {{mi|13.1}} (or a more modest but still impressive {{km|5}}). }} *''Early-Mid August'', {{listing | name='''Indiana State Fair'''| alt= | url=http://www.in.gov/statefair/ | address=State Fairgrounds | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The biggest summer event in the state. A trip to Indiana isn't complete without a trip to the fair. Animals, crafts, art, rides, dancing, education, environmentalism, Hoosier Pride and food. They also have live music and concerts. Prairie Home Companion comes every other year. Although many locals usually complain about the food being largely overpriced. }} *''Early August'', {{listing | name='''Gen Con'''| alt= | url=http://www.gencon.com | address=Indiana Convention Center, 100 South Capitol Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The "best four days of gaming" in the world comes to Indianapolis every year. Thousands congregate from all over the world to play games of all types, meet sci-fi and fantasy film stars, purchase gamer goods and hang with others. The freakiest time of the year in downtown Indy. }} ===Parks=== [[File:C4241-Indianapolis-Canal.jpg|alt=|thumb|Downtown's Canal District reserves a plot of land for Military Park]] '''[http://www.indy.gov/eGov/City/dpr/Pages/IndyParksHome.aspx Indy Parks]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' features information and links regarding all Indianapolis public parks. Below is an example of some of the city's finest, which attract visitors and locals alike. *{{see | name='''Eagle Creek Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/133 | address=7840 W 56th St | lat=39.854505 | long=-86.301777 | directions=Accessible from I-465 | price= | lastedit=2025-06-01 | content=On the west side of Indy, this huge park boasts many amenities, including a nature center, fitness course, fishing areas, and bird sanctuary. Fill your day with sailing, bird watching, fishing, rowing, hiking, swimming, ziplining. Only 10&nbsp;minutes from downtown. Admission: $7/car for non-Marion county Residents. }} *{{see | name='''Garfield Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/521 | address=2345 Pagoda Dr | lat=39.734213 | long=-86.1519037 | directions= | price= | content=Oldest park in Indianapolis, established in 1881. Home of the Garfield Park Conservatory, which houses {{convert|10,000|ft2|m2}} of plants from all over the world, and the Sunken Gardens, built in 1916, which consist of {{convert|3|acres|ha}} of European classical formal gardens, which change based on the season. Other features include an arts center, MacAllister Center for the Performing Arts, swimming pool and aquatic center, picnic shelters, pagoda, tennis courts, softball diamond, numerous trails, horse shoe courts, playgrounds, sledding hill and countless other park activities. Free for most activities. Free parking. }} [[File:Skiles Test Nature Park.jpg|alt=Trees turning shade in autumn|thumb|Indianapolis has state parks, conservancies, small reserved areas downtown, and the natural resource area of Skiles Test Nature Park (pictured here in autumn).]] *{{see | name='''Holliday Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/10 | address=6363 Spring Mill Rd | lat=39.871071 | long=-86.1634226 | directions= | price= | content=One of the oldest and coolest parks in town. Planted right on the White River with swamps, ponds, wildflower gardens, birdwatching sanctuaries, a renovated nature center, sculpture garden, and countless wildlife and plant life. In the warm months parents take their kids to play on the best playground in the city, and locals picnic, lay out, read and host family gatherings at the extensive parkland. A great place to wade and collect rocks too. 95 acres of trails and woodland, a must see. }} *{{see | name='''White River State Park'''| alt= | url=https://www.whiteriverstatepark.org/ | address=801 W Washington St | lat=39.770778 | long=-86.167145 | directions= | price=Free and paid parking | content=Home to the Indianapolis Zoo, White River Gardens, Victory Field, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art, Indiana State Museum, IMAX Theater, and NCAA Hall of Champions. It also has The Lawn near the river, which is host to concerts during each summer. Central Canal is also located within the park. Park passes are available for purchase, entrance to all 7 of the main attractions is included in the pass. }} ===Art=== *{{see | name='''Indiana Repertory Theatre'''| alt= | url=https://www.irtlive.com/ | address=140 W Washington St | lat=39.7675 | long=-86.1611 | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Repertory Theatre | wikidata=Q6023385 | content=Some of the nation's finest actors perform in this architectural masterpiece of a theater. Two theaters provide different types of performances, and their famous version of ''A Christmas Carol'' is a classic. Be sure to check out their Shakespeare performances. Dress up in your Sunday best and see a matinee to save some bucks. Cocktails are served. All ages. }} ===Sports=== *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway''' | lat=NA | long=NA | alt= | url=http://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/ | email= | address=4790 W 16th St | directions= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway | image=Indianapolis Motor Speedway (15982572368) (cropped).jpg | wikidata=Q172732 | content=It is Indy's pride and joy sporting landmark. Several motor races take place here, most notably the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400 and Indycar Grand Prix. Check out the museum, or a race depending on your visit. Ticket prices aren't cheap to the main affairs, but just attending one of the many practices or qualifications during the racing season (May–Sep) is well worth the experience. A must-see when visiting Indy, for race lovers or not. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Pacers'''| alt= | url=http://www.nba.com/pacers/ | address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Pacers | wikidata=Q170329 | content=NBA member, the Pacers can be seen live at their home court November–April. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Fever'''| alt= | url=https://fever.wnba.com |address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Fever | wikidata=Q1631017 | content=A member of the WNBA, the Fever plays from June–September, and tickets were quite a bit cheaper than their NBA counterparts before the 2024 arrival of college basketball icon Caitlin Clark. In Clark's first season, the Fever set new WNBA single-season records for average and total attendance, and even outdrew the Pacers. The team, which shares ownership with the Pacers, also plays in Gainbridge Fieldhouse. }} [[File:LucasOil.JPG|thumb|right|Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Colts]] *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Colts'''| alt= | url=http://www.colts.com/ | address=500 S Capitol Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Colts | wikidata=Q193753 | content=[[American Football|The NFL's]] Indianapolis Colts football season runs from August–January. The Colts play home games at Lucas Oil Stadium, a retractable-roof stadium that opened in 2008, which hosts many other sporting events, competitions, and concert events throughout the year. }} *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Indians'''| alt= | url=http://www.milb.com/indianapolis | address=501 W Maryland St | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price=$11–30 | wikipedia=Indianapolis Indians | image=Victory Field.jpg | wikidata=Q2748815 | content=The AAA minor league affiliate for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Their home stadium, Victory Field, has been deemed the best minor league baseball stadium in the country. Pack a picnic and sit in the outfield next to the famous teepee during the game (and catch a few balls if you're lucky) or get a seat in the stands. }} ===Bars=== Bars close at 3AM; 12:30AM on Sundays. Alcohol can be bought in stores on Sundays from Noon to 8 PM. Age requirements vary and are listed below. *{{see | name='''Alley Cat'''| alt= | url= | address=6267 Carrollton Ave | lat=39.86944 | long=-86.14459 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A dive bar in Broad Ripple, down an alley. No windows, smoke-ridden, and open at 7AM for breakfast till 3AM for dinner. A great jukebox, legendary bar staff, numerous pool tables, and the hardest drinks in town. Sometimes bands play too. A place you know will never change. Vegetarian friendly. 21+ }} [[File:Mass Ave.jpg|alt=A large painting of Vonnegut on the side of a building|thumb|Hometown hero Kurt Vonnegut is honored by a large painting on Mass Ave. blocks from the Rathskeller designed by his family.]] *{{see | name='''Kellerbar at the Rathskeller'''| alt= | url=http://www.rathskeller.com/ | address=401 E Michigan St | lat=39.77377 | long=-86.15031 | directions= | price= | content=Located inside the Rathskeller German restaurant, this is a place to drink beers from around the world and sop it all up with German food. During the warm months, this is one of the busiest bars in town. Get there early to enjoy a quieter beer or two; the bar opens up in the afternoon and you can enjoy their in-house brew (the Dunkel is particularly good) outside in the Biergarten or inside in the cozy oak bar that emulates a German castle. Later in the evening on the weekends, cover bands rock out in the garden and drunk college students go wild. }} *{{see | name='''Metro'''| alt= | url=http://www.metro-indy.com | address=707 Massachusetts Ave | lat=39.77649 | long=-86.14661 | directions= | price= | content=A laid back, casual environment with a pub downstairs and a modern pool hall upstairs. Their karaoke is legendary—featuring people who really can sing. Upstairs they also feature a sex/bdsm shop for kinky goods. Speaking of kink, food is served. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''The Vogue'''| alt= | url=http://www.thevogue.com/ | address=6259 N College Ave | lat=39.86922 | long=-86.14586 | directions= | price= | content=A movie theater built in the 1930s, in the 1970s it opened up as a music venue and nightclub. Now, it's the place for college kids to get wasted on the weekends and dance to top 40 and retro tunes. You'll also find great live music and past acts include Cheap Trick, Johnny Cash, David Byrne, The White Stripes, Common, Sean Paul, The Faint, VHS Or Beta, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams III, The Black Keys and more. Cover varies. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''Slippery Noodle Inn'''| alt= | url=http://www.slipperynoodle.com/ | address=372 S Meridian St | lat=39.76164 | long=-86.15883 | directions= | price= | content=The oldest bar in Indiana since 1850. It used to be a brothel, and it's now the best blues bar in the city. Steaks, homemade soup, baked potatoes, sandwiches and subs are the starts of the menu with a classic bar menu to boot. Beer, champagne, wine, and of course—hard liquor is poured with pride and the blues is local and national/international acts. There are still bullet holes in the wall from brawls in the 1800s. Dis is it. 21+ }} ===Other Food and Drink=== *{{eat | name='''Yats'''| alt= | url=http://www.yatscajuncreole.com/ | address=5650 W 86th St | lat=39.91252 | long=-86.26147 | price= | content=Indy's top restaurant for Cajun food. Sharing four locations, owned by a New Orleans native transplant, you'll feel like you're in the Crescent City. Large quantities of limited meals are offered up each day—and each is so tasty you'll be content. Pig out on great Cajun eats in a fun artsy environment. Vegan food available too. Hipsters and punks serve up your meals and sodas are refillable and mere $1. A great deal for a lot of enjoyable food. The chili cheese crawfish etouffe is their signature dish, but the jambalaya is also outstanding. Vegan friendly. }} *{{eat | name='''Sabor Venezolano'''| alt= | url=https://saborvenezolanorestaurantbarin.com/ | address=4930 Lafayette Rd Ste E | lat=39.84355 | long=-86.25452 | directions= | price= | content=Casual venue offering traditional Venezuelan eats, including a delicious cachapa. }} *{{eat | name='''Yummy Bowl'''| alt= | url=https://www.yummybowlindianapolis.com/ | address=3451 W 86th St | lat=39.91134335840361 | long=-86.21812603800274 | directions= | price= | content=Home of local ''Chipotlé''-style Mongolian dishes. }} *{{eat | name='''Easley Winery'''| alt= | url=https://www.easleywinery.com/ | address=205 N College Ave | lat=39.769827 | long=-86.145158 | directions= | price= | lastedit=2016-03-03 | content=The oldest winery in downtown Indy. Free guided tours, wine tasting, and events. In warm months they feature after-work cocktails and live music. Check out the wine-shop featuring tons of wine and beer making goods. }} *{{eat | name='''Traders Point Creamery'''| alt= | url=http://www.traderspointcreamery.com | address=9101 Moore Rd | lat=39.91754 | long=-86.28764 | directions= | price= | content=Indy's only grass-fed USDA organic dairy. They are always open with their self-serve dairy-shop (with a bucket you pay and take your change from—honesty basis), and at 4PM you can watch the cows get milked au naturel. Creamy milk, amazing yogurt (voted #1 by the American Cheese Society in 2005), ice cream, eggs and cheeses are all for sale. On the weekends they feature a farmers market and organic cafe. You can walk the grounds petting cows and chasing chickens. Fun for the family and eco-friendly folk. }} ==Connect== ===Television=== *'''[https://www.wthr.com/ WTHR 13]''' NBC *'''[https://www.wfyi.org/ WFYI 20]''' PBS ===Newspapers=== *'''[http://www.indystar.com ''Indianapolis Star''].''' The city's daily and Sunday paper. Formerly locally owned, now published by national syndicate Gannett. {{geo|39.76833|-86.15806}} {{isPartOf|Nine-County Region}} {{hasDocent|Koavf}} llmrq8lurfe5i9b16c0vfx4lzm71hx8 5288961 5288953 2026-06-07T02:26:54Z MichaelGintz 2415262 5288961 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Indianapolisbanner-night.jpg|caption=The downtown canal at night|alt=A pathway next to the water with lights on either side}} '''Indianapolis''' is the capital of [[Indiana]] and also the state’s largest city. Efforts to beautify and modernize the city have brought Indianapolis into the 21st&nbsp;century as a world-class destination for everything from business meetings and trade conventions to backpackers making their way across the States. [[File:DT INDY 10-03-2010 JASSSMIT.JPG|alt=The Indianapolis skyline|thumb|Indianapolis began a project of downtown beautification in the 1990s—the skyline is seen here in 2010]] Indianapolis is widely hailed as the "Racing Capital of the World" because of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indy&nbsp;500 and Brickyard&nbsp;400 at the Brickyard, and as the "Amateur Sports Capital of America" for hosting the NCAA Hall of Champions. The city has several attractions outside of sports, including museums, a large zoo, over 100 ethnic restaurants, several arts and historic districts, and a revitalized downtown. Although Indy has been mocked with the epithet "India-noplace", visitors will encounter a mix of a large metropolitan city and a simple [[Midwest]]ern community. You will find beautiful architecture, monuments, and pristine cornfields in the Circle City. ==Understand== [[File:Indianapolis-indiana-from-above.jpg|alt=An aerial photograph of downtown Indianapolis|thumb|Indianapolis' downtown is cut through by the non-navigable waters of the White River]] The population is roughly 882,000 (2022), making it the 16th largest city in the United States, and the metro area has about 2&nbsp;million (#34). When Indianapolis was founded, it was expected to be a "Great Inland Port", but the White River turned out to be non-navigable most of the year. The pay-off is that this desire for a port left the city with a gorgeous canal district, though the canal itself is only useful for recreational kayaks and paddleboats. Today, Indianapolis is known as the "Crossroads of America" due to its centrality in America's Interstate Highway System. In general, travel in and through Indianapolis is safe, clean, and logical. Visitors can always find something to do without becoming overwhelmed at a sprawling metropolis. In a few minutes, you can go from a sleepy and peaceful cornfield to a vibrant downtown. City planning is intelligible to outsiders with a grid system broken up by a few major diagonal streets, a large beltway loop (I-465), and a general lack of gridlock and traffic. ==Get in== ===By train=== * {{see | name='''Indianapolis Union Station'''| alt= | url=https://www.amtrak.com/content/amtrak/en-us/stations/ind.html | address=350 South Illinois Street | lat=39.7625 | long=-86.1602 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A historic, and underused, grand station that has the distinction of being the first Union station. Most of the building has now been converted to other uses, including a hotel. Trains depart from southern end of the station, there is a small waiting room as well as ticket offices. }} **{{go|name='''Amtrak'''|alt=|url=https://www.amtrak.com/content/amtrak/en-us/stations/ind.html|address=350 South Illinois Street|lat=NA|long=NA|directions=|price=|content=Operates trains throughout the [[United States of America]].}} Route stopping in Indianapolis: *** '''[https://www.amtrak.com/cardinal-train Cardinal]''' operating three trips weekly between [[Chicago]] and [[New York City]]. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|39.76833|-86.15806|zoom=10|name=Indianapolis and Marion County. There are several "included cities" within this area that retain some independence, but for purposes of travel the only noticeable difference might be speed limits. Zoom in thrice to get a sense of the navigable portion of downtown.}} Outside of the walkable Downtown and some Cultural Districts, you'll need a vehicle to navigate the urban sprawl. The public bus system is fairly clean and efficient but routes are sometimes complex, and substantial portions of the metro area are inaccessible. Outside of peak hours, waits can be prohibitively long. Bike lanes alongside major roads have been constructed in the early 2010s, so cyclists will be sharing the road. ===By bike=== The [https://indyculturaltrail.org/ Indianapolis Cultural Trail] was built through several years in the early 21st century and takes riders through downtown providing signs with Indianapolis history; public art dots many stops and you will be guided past several restaurants and local businesses. [https://www.pacersbikeshare.org/ Indiana Pacers Bikeshare] provides free bike-sharing rides for up to 30 minutes at a time for all Marion County residents. For non-residents, ordinary bikes are $2 per ride + $0.20 per minute, and e-bikes are $5 + $0.25 per minute. With a bike you can easily navigate within and between the following neighborhoods in and around downtown Indianapolis: [[File:Fountain Square Theatre in Indianapolis.jpg|alt=|thumb|The Fountain Square district is built around the historic Fountain Square Theatre. You can now get barbeque and go duckpin bowling in the structure.]] *{{marker|type=buy|name='''Downtown'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. Say more about downtown here. ALSO HOME TO MASSAVE A hop skip and a jump from the Circle, Mass Ave has gone through an amazing rebirth to become one of the coolest shopping areas in town full of local shops. *{{marker|type=buy|name='''[http://www.fountainsquareindy.com/ Fountain Square]'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A historical area about a mile from downtown Indy, to the Southeast. Mainly comprising of antique, thrift and art shops. ==Enjoy== ===Landmarks=== [[File:Downtown Indianapolis panorama, 2015.jpg|alt=|thumb|The sun rising over downtown]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Capitol'''| alt= | url=https://www.in.gov/idoa/statehouse/home/ | address=200 W Washington St | lat=39.7689 | long=-86.1625 | directions=just west of Monument Circle | price=Free. Vehicles can be parked in nearby garages or at metered spots. Automobiles that violate the metered time policy risk receiving a ticket and having their automobiles towed | wikipedia=Indiana Statehouse | image=Capitol del Estado de Indiana, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 04.jpg | wikidata=Q1661319 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Completed in 1888, this is the hub for Indiana's state government, housing the Governor's office, the state legislature (State Senate and Indiana General Assembly) and the State Supreme Court. The first state capital was in the [[Southern Indiana]] town of [[Corydon]], and in 1825 it was moved to Indianapolis. Featuring Italian Renaissance, Greek, and Corinthian design, the building is made from primarily of Indiana limestone. Look up while in the Rotunda to see the amazing German stained glass window, take a guided or personal tour, or observe the government at work. }} *{{see | name='''Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument'''| alt= | url=https://www.in.gov/iwm/soldiers-and-sailors-monument/ | address=1 Monument Cir | lat=39.7687 | long=-86.1579 | directions=The center of the city | price=Fees for elevator: adults $3.00, elderly (65 and over): free, youngsters (12 and under): no charge. Free for US military personnel and veterans. There is no fee to walk the steps. During business hours, elevator tickets are available for purchase at the Monument Gift Shop | wikipedia=Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument (Indianapolis) | image=Monument Circle, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.jpg | wikidata=Q1748884 | lastedit=2024-10-4 | content=This is the well-known monument in the center of the city. It is only fifteen feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty, having been built in 1902. The monument's sculpted depictions of gory Civil War fights and emancipated slaves are powerful. With Miss Liberty facing south, she defends the north from the confederate. The Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War museum is located in the basement, and visitors can ride the tower to the top for a view of the city. The grounds on the Monument are a wonderful representation of the city itself; they combine the calm of quietly roaring water and verdant grass with the energy of Downtown. It's also a great place to people watch. Additionally, there's a tiny gift shop. William Henry Harrison, the first Governor of the Indiana Territory and the United States President for a single month, is depicted on a statue at the base. The south steps are closed for renovation until November 2025, costing $10 million. }} *{{see | name='''Indiana War Memorial & Museum'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/ | address=55 E Michigan St | lat=39.7735 | long=-86.157 | directions=Slightly north, Downtown | price=Admission to the museum is free | wikidata=Q2439742 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=This pillared structure has a war museum, an elaborate auditorium, and a shrine honoring World War I troops who lost their lives. }} *{{see | name='''Scottish Rite Cathedral'''| alt= | url=https://aasr-indy.org/ | address=650 N Meridian St | lat=39.7762 | long=-86.1585 | directions=slightly north, Downtown | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish Rite Cathedral (Indianapolis) | image=Catedral de tradición escocesa, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 02.jpg | wikidata=Q7437949 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=It is the largest Scottish Rite cathedral in the world and a masterpiece of architecture. Take a tour, investigate the enormous pipe organ, the floating dance floor, the hand-crafted art glass windows, discover the mystery surrounding Freemasonry, and stop by the cafe for a bite to eat. }} *{{see | name='''The American Legion National Headquarters'''| alt= | url=https://www.legion.org/ | address=700 N Pennsylvania St | lat=39.777167 | long=-86.155738 | directions=northside of downtown | price=Free or paid parking | wikidata=Q468865 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Situated in the heart of downtown Indy with a beautiful mall that reminds one of D.C. Check out the museum that features hundreds of World War I & II posters and artifacts, a diorama of [[w:Jessica Lynch|Jessica Lynch]]'s rescue, explore the grounds and learn about the Legion's history. }} *{{see | name='''Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/explore/medal-of-honor-memorial/ | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.7703 | long=-86.169 | directions=westside of Downtown | price=Free | wikidata=Q6805056 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Monument that is part of White River State Park that pays tribute to over 3,000 Medal of Honor recipients. Ranges from Civil War through modern day clashes. It is made up of 27 curved glass walls, each {{ft|7–10}} high, and etched with the names. It's quite breathtaking—especially at night. }} * {{see | name='''Indiana 9/11 Memorial'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/explore/indiana-9-11-memorial/ | address=421 W Ohio St | lat=39.7704 | long=-86.1657 | directions= | price=Free | wikipedia=Indiana 9/11 Memorial | image=Project 9-11 Indianapolis.jpg | wikidata=Q7248980 | lastedit=2024-01-16 | content= }} ===Museums=== [[File:Indiana War Memorial at night.jpg|alt=|thumb|300px|The colossal Indiana War Memorial]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Museum'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianamuseum.org/ | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.769 | long=-86.1693 | directions=Westside of Downtown | price=Adult $19, senior (60+) $17, youth $13, child under 3 free | wikipedia=Indiana State Museum | wikidata=Q6023430 | lastedit=2024-09-20 | content=One of the most exquisite residences in the nation is the new state museum. Discover Indiana's history, from dinosaurs and fossil discoveries to the American Civil War, World War II, and the present. Discover a hall honoring well-known Hoosiers, take advantage of the IMAX theater and special events, and stroll about White River State Park's grounds to see the sculpture garden honoring Indiana's counties. A must-watch. The little gift shop offers plush toys, gourmet beverages, unusual candies, and trinkets with Indiana themes. With its seasonal menus and freshly made soups, salads, and sandwiches, the Farmers Market Café offers a menu that pays homage to Indiana's past as a supplier of local, fresh produce. The famed chicken velvet soup is served at the historic L.S. Ayres Tea Room. }} *{{see | name='''James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home & Visitor Center'''| alt= | url=https://rileymuseumhome.org/ | address=528 Lockerbie St | lat=39.773 | long=-86.1475 | directions=eastside of Downtown | price=Adult $10, student #1, children 6 and under free | wikidata=Q6145403 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=See the house where the renowned writer and poet spent the latter part of his life. "The Children's Poet" is how Riley is recognized. One of the best maintained Victorian homes in the nation, the house has been featured in ''Architectural Digest''. The house has never undergone renovations; every piece of furniture, up to the carpet, is original and dates back to 1916. See his possessions, collection of antiques, and background by taking a tour. }} *{{see | name='''Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site'''| alt= | url=https://bhpsite.org/ | address=1230 N Delaware St | lat=39.784 | long=-86.1543 | directions=Northside of Downtown | price=Adult $16, veteran $15, senior $15, college student $11, child $11, pre-school free | wikidata=Q4888783 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=The only Indianan to become U.S. president to date, holding office for one term (1889–1893). See this hero of the Civil War's stunning 1875 home, constructed in the Italianate Victorian style. It has three stories and is crammed with personal items, artwork, political mementos, and antiques. There is a First Ladies display in the carriage house at the back. They host entertaining events all year long, many of which feature outstanding reenactments of historical individuals from Indiana. A naturalization ceremony, tours of Victorian murder mysteries, and the always entertaining croquet competition are all held there. }} *{{see | name='''Newfields'''| alt=Indianapolis Museum of Art | url=https://discovernewfields.org | address=4000 Michigan Rd | lat=39.8259 | long=-86.1855 | directions=10&nbsp;minutes north of Downtown | price=Adult $20, child 5 & under free, youth 6-17 $13, Access Pass $2 (certain areas of the IMA campus are free, including the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres, the IMA Café, Museum Store, and Five Brushstrokes) | wikipedia=Indianapolis Museum of Art | image=Indy-Art-Museum-Szmurlo.jpg | wikidata=Q1117704 | content=Reopened following a multi-million dollar renovation it's one of the most beautiful buildings in the country for fine art. Founded in 1883, this is one of the oldest art museums in the country, boasting over 50,000 pieces of art and an amazing public art library. Exhibits include Contemporary Art, European Art, Asian Art, African Art, Textile Art, and more. Rotating and traveling exhibits are abundant. Experience hands-on exhibits where you can create your own art, walk the amazing grounds exploring the sculptures, gardens, and homes, shop at the museum store and eat and drink at the IMA Cafe and Wolfgang Puck's namesake restaurant—this is the city he got his start in. On Thursdays and Fridays 5–9PM, the museum has a special "happy hour" for hip and artsy socialites at Puck's featuring cocktails and hors d'oeurves. Also on the grounds are the Oldfields–Lilly House & Gardens, the former estate of the Lillys. They are located on {{convert|26|acre|ha}} grounds with a 22-room mansion, gardens, and museum. }} * {{see | name='''Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library'''| alt= | url=https://www.vonnegutlibrary.org/ | address=543 Indiana Avenue | lat=39.7725 | long=-86.163333 | directions= | price=Adults $12, seniors/educators/military $10, students $8. Free on first M of each month | wikidata=Q6447107 | lastedit=2024-10-04 | content=A museum dedicated to literary and cultural contributions of author and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut. }} *{{see | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum'''| alt= | url=http://www.indyracingmuseum.org/ | address=4790 W 16th St | lat=39.7902 | long=-86.2306 | directions=Speedway, Westside | price=$10 adult, $5 child, 5 and under free | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum | image=IMS HOF Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q6023901 | content=The IMA is the home of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, the Indianapolis 500. On the IMS grounds you will find the Museum which houses the world's largest collection of racing, classic, and antique cars. Check out 30 of the Indy 500 winner's cars, a 20-minute film about the history of the race, a souvenir shop and cafe. If you would like to see more of the track facilities, you also can pay a few bucks to ride in a bus around the actual race track (at about 40&nbsp;miles or 65&nbsp;km an hour). Or, for the more adventurous souls, you can try the Indy Racing Experience Driving Program where you can ride in a 2-seater Indy Car and experience speeds around the track up to 180&nbsp;miles or 300&nbsp;km an hour. }} [[File:Indiana State House 2.jpg|thumb|250px|The Indiana State House]] ===Festivals and events=== [[File:Indianapolis mini-marathon at the Motor Speedway, 2018.jpg|alt=A row of runners|thumb|Runners in the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon reaching the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2018. This is one of several preludes to the Indy 500.]] *''May'', {{listing | name='''The Indianapolis 500'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/events/indy500 | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=One of the largest sporting events in the world. The westside of the city and Speedway gets swamped and if you like big crowds, loud cars, and tailgating, this is for you. One of several events leading up to it is the largest mini-marathon in the world, so if you're extra ambitious, come early and run for {{mi|13.1}} (or a more modest but still impressive {{km|5}}). }} *''Early-Mid August'', {{listing | name='''Indiana State Fair'''| alt= | url=http://www.in.gov/statefair/ | address=State Fairgrounds | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The biggest summer event in the state. A trip to Indiana isn't complete without a trip to the fair. Animals, crafts, art, rides, dancing, education, environmentalism, Hoosier Pride and food. They also have live music and concerts. Prairie Home Companion comes every other year. Although many locals usually complain about the food being largely overpriced. }} *''Early August'', {{listing | name='''Gen Con'''| alt= | url=http://www.gencon.com | address=Indiana Convention Center, 100 South Capitol Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The "best four days of gaming" in the world comes to Indianapolis every year. Thousands congregate from all over the world to play games of all types, meet sci-fi and fantasy film stars, purchase gamer goods and hang with others. The freakiest time of the year in downtown Indy. }} ===Parks=== [[File:C4241-Indianapolis-Canal.jpg|alt=|thumb|Downtown's Canal District reserves a plot of land for Military Park]] '''[http://www.indy.gov/eGov/City/dpr/Pages/IndyParksHome.aspx Indy Parks]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' features information and links regarding all Indianapolis public parks. Below is an example of some of the city's finest, which attract visitors and locals alike. *{{see | name='''Eagle Creek Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/133 | address=7840 W 56th St | lat=39.854505 | long=-86.301777 | directions=Accessible from I-465 | price= | lastedit=2025-06-01 | content=On the west side of Indy, this huge park boasts many amenities, including a nature center, fitness course, fishing areas, and bird sanctuary. Fill your day with sailing, bird watching, fishing, rowing, hiking, swimming, ziplining. Only 10&nbsp;minutes from downtown. Admission: $7/car for non-Marion county Residents. }} *{{see | name='''Garfield Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/521 | address=2345 Pagoda Dr | lat=39.734213 | long=-86.1519037 | directions= | price= | content=Oldest park in Indianapolis, established in 1881. Home of the Garfield Park Conservatory, which houses {{convert|10,000|ft2|m2}} of plants from all over the world, and the Sunken Gardens, built in 1916, which consist of {{convert|3|acres|ha}} of European classical formal gardens, which change based on the season. Other features include an arts center, MacAllister Center for the Performing Arts, swimming pool and aquatic center, picnic shelters, pagoda, tennis courts, softball diamond, numerous trails, horse shoe courts, playgrounds, sledding hill and countless other park activities. Free for most activities. Free parking. }} [[File:Skiles Test Nature Park.jpg|alt=Trees turning shade in autumn|thumb|Indianapolis has state parks, conservancies, small reserved areas downtown, and the natural resource area of Skiles Test Nature Park (pictured here in autumn).]] *{{see | name='''Holliday Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/10 | address=6363 Spring Mill Rd | lat=39.871071 | long=-86.1634226 | directions= | price= | content=One of the oldest and coolest parks in town. Planted right on the White River with swamps, ponds, wildflower gardens, birdwatching sanctuaries, a renovated nature center, sculpture garden, and countless wildlife and plant life. In the warm months parents take their kids to play on the best playground in the city, and locals picnic, lay out, read and host family gatherings at the extensive parkland. A great place to wade and collect rocks too. 95 acres of trails and woodland, a must see. }} *{{see | name='''White River State Park'''| alt= | url=https://www.whiteriverstatepark.org/ | address=801 W Washington St | lat=39.770778 | long=-86.167145 | directions= | price=Free and paid parking | content=Home to the Indianapolis Zoo, White River Gardens, Victory Field, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art, Indiana State Museum, IMAX Theater, and NCAA Hall of Champions. It also has The Lawn near the river, which is host to concerts during each summer. Central Canal is also located within the park. Park passes are available for purchase, entrance to all 7 of the main attractions is included in the pass. }} ===Art=== *{{see | name='''Indiana Repertory Theatre'''| alt= | url=https://www.irtlive.com/ | address=140 W Washington St | lat=39.7675 | long=-86.1611 | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Repertory Theatre | wikidata=Q6023385 | content=Some of the nation's finest actors perform in this architectural masterpiece of a theater. Two theaters provide different types of performances, and their famous version of ''A Christmas Carol'' is a classic. Be sure to check out their Shakespeare performances. Dress up in your Sunday best and see a matinee to save some bucks. Cocktails are served. All ages. }} ===Sports=== *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway''' | lat=NA | long=NA | alt= | url=http://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/ | email= | address=4790 W 16th St | directions= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway | image=Indianapolis Motor Speedway (15982572368) (cropped).jpg | wikidata=Q172732 | content=It is Indy's pride and joy sporting landmark. Several motor races take place here, most notably the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400 and Indycar Grand Prix. Check out the museum, or a race depending on your visit. Ticket prices aren't cheap to the main affairs, but just attending one of the many practices or qualifications during the racing season (May–Sep) is well worth the experience. A must-see when visiting Indy, for race lovers or not. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Pacers'''| alt= | url=http://www.nba.com/pacers/ | address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Pacers | wikidata=Q170329 | content=NBA member, the Pacers can be seen live at their home court November–April. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Fever'''| alt= | url=https://fever.wnba.com |address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Fever | wikidata=Q1631017 | content=A member of the WNBA, the Fever plays from June–September, and tickets were quite a bit cheaper than their NBA counterparts before the 2024 arrival of college basketball icon Caitlin Clark. In Clark's first season, the Fever set new WNBA single-season records for average and total attendance, and even outdrew the Pacers. The team, which shares ownership with the Pacers, also plays in Gainbridge Fieldhouse. }} [[File:LucasOil.JPG|thumb|right|Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Colts]] *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Colts'''| alt= | url=http://www.colts.com/ | address=500 S Capitol Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Colts | wikidata=Q193753 | content=[[American Football|The NFL's]] Indianapolis Colts football season runs from August–January. The Colts play home games at Lucas Oil Stadium, a retractable-roof stadium that opened in 2008, which hosts many other sporting events, competitions, and concert events throughout the year. }} *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Indians'''| alt= | url=http://www.milb.com/indianapolis | address=501 W Maryland St | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price=$11–30 | wikipedia=Indianapolis Indians | image=Victory Field.jpg | wikidata=Q2748815 | content=The AAA minor league affiliate for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Their home stadium, Victory Field, has been deemed the best minor league baseball stadium in the country. Pack a picnic and sit in the outfield next to the famous teepee during the game (and catch a few balls if you're lucky) or get a seat in the stands. }} ===Bars=== Bars close at 3AM; 12:30AM on Sundays. Alcohol can be bought in stores on Sundays from Noon to 8 PM. Age requirements vary and are listed below. *{{see | name='''Alley Cat'''| alt= | url= | address=6267 Carrollton Ave | lat=39.86944 | long=-86.14459 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A dive bar in Broad Ripple, down an alley. No windows, smoke-ridden, and open at 7AM for breakfast till 3AM for dinner. A great jukebox, legendary bar staff, numerous pool tables, and the hardest drinks in town. Sometimes bands play too. A place you know will never change. Vegetarian friendly. 21+ }} [[File:Mass Ave.jpg|alt=A large painting of Vonnegut on the side of a building|thumb|Hometown hero Kurt Vonnegut is honored by a large painting on Mass Ave. blocks from the Rathskeller designed by his family.]] *{{see | name='''Kellerbar at the Rathskeller'''| alt= | url=http://www.rathskeller.com/ | address=401 E Michigan St | lat=39.77377 | long=-86.15031 | directions= | price= | content=Located inside the Rathskeller German restaurant, this is a place to drink beers from around the world and sop it all up with German food. During the warm months, this is one of the busiest bars in town. Get there early to enjoy a quieter beer or two; the bar opens up in the afternoon and you can enjoy their in-house brew (the Dunkel is particularly good) outside in the Biergarten or inside in the cozy oak bar that emulates a German castle. Later in the evening on the weekends, cover bands rock out in the garden and drunk college students go wild. }} *{{see | name='''Metro'''| alt= | url=http://www.metro-indy.com | address=707 Massachusetts Ave | lat=39.77649 | long=-86.14661 | directions= | price= | content=A laid back, casual environment with a pub downstairs and a modern pool hall upstairs. Their karaoke is legendary—featuring people who really can sing. Upstairs they also feature a sex/bdsm shop for kinky goods. Speaking of kink, food is served. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''The Vogue'''| alt= | url=http://www.thevogue.com/ | address=6259 N College Ave | lat=39.86922 | long=-86.14586 | directions= | price= | content=A movie theater built in the 1930s, in the 1970s it opened up as a music venue and nightclub. Now, it's the place for college kids to get wasted on the weekends and dance to top 40 and retro tunes. You'll also find great live music and past acts include Cheap Trick, Johnny Cash, David Byrne, The White Stripes, Common, Sean Paul, The Faint, VHS Or Beta, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams III, The Black Keys and more. Cover varies. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''Slippery Noodle Inn'''| alt= | url=http://www.slipperynoodle.com/ | address=372 S Meridian St | lat=39.76164 | long=-86.15883 | directions= | price= | content=The oldest bar in Indiana since 1850. It used to be a brothel, and it's now the best blues bar in the city. Steaks, homemade soup, baked potatoes, sandwiches and subs are the starts of the menu with a classic bar menu to boot. Beer, champagne, wine, and of course—hard liquor is poured with pride and the blues is local and national/international acts. There are still bullet holes in the wall from brawls in the 1800s. Dis is it. 21+ }} ===Other Food and Drink=== *{{eat | name='''Yats'''| alt= | url=http://www.yatscajuncreole.com/ | address=5650 W 86th St | lat=39.91252 | long=-86.26147 | price= | content=Indy's top restaurant for Cajun food. Sharing four locations, owned by a New Orleans native transplant, you'll feel like you're in the Crescent City. Large quantities of limited meals are offered up each day—and each is so tasty you'll be content. Pig out on great Cajun eats in a fun artsy environment. Vegan food available too. Hipsters and punks serve up your meals and sodas are refillable and mere $1. A great deal for a lot of enjoyable food. The chili cheese crawfish etouffe is their signature dish, but the jambalaya is also outstanding. Vegan friendly. }} *{{eat | name='''Sabor Venezolano'''| alt= | url=https://saborvenezolanorestaurantbarin.com/ | address=4930 Lafayette Rd Ste E | lat=39.84355 | long=-86.25452 | directions= | price= | content=Casual venue offering traditional Venezuelan eats, including a delicious cachapa. }} *{{eat | name='''Yummy Bowl'''| alt= | url=https://www.yummybowlindianapolis.com/ | address=3451 W 86th St | lat=39.91134335840361 | long=-86.21812603800274 | directions= | price= | content=Home of local ''Chipotlé''-style Mongolian dishes. }} *{{eat | name='''Easley Winery'''| alt= | url=https://www.easleywinery.com/ | address=205 N College Ave | lat=39.769827 | long=-86.145158 | directions= | price= | lastedit=2016-03-03 | content=The oldest winery in downtown Indy. Free guided tours, wine tasting, and events. In warm months they feature after-work cocktails and live music. Check out the wine-shop featuring tons of wine and beer making goods. }} *{{eat | name='''Traders Point Creamery'''| alt= | url=http://www.traderspointcreamery.com | address=9101 Moore Rd | lat=39.91754 | long=-86.28764 | directions= | price= | content=Indy's only grass-fed USDA organic dairy. They are always open with their self-serve dairy-shop (with a bucket you pay and take your change from—honesty basis), and at 4PM you can watch the cows get milked au naturel. Creamy milk, amazing yogurt (voted #1 by the American Cheese Society in 2005), ice cream, eggs and cheeses are all for sale. On the weekends they feature a farmers market and organic cafe. You can walk the grounds petting cows and chasing chickens. Fun for the family and eco-friendly folk. }} ==Connect== ===Television=== *'''[https://www.wthr.com/ WTHR 13]''' NBC *'''[https://www.wfyi.org/ WFYI 20]''' PBS ===Newspapers=== *'''[http://www.indystar.com ''Indianapolis Star''].''' The city's daily and Sunday paper. Formerly locally owned, now published by national syndicate Gannett. {{isPartOf|Nine-County Region}} {{hasDocent|Koavf}} 9lmdp3wat23emls2669pu6pi42dw33y 5288963 5288961 2026-06-07T02:33:39Z MichaelGintz 2415262 /* By bike */ 5288963 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Indianapolisbanner-night.jpg|caption=The downtown canal at night|alt=A pathway next to the water with lights on either side}} '''Indianapolis''' is the capital of [[Indiana]] and also the state’s largest city. Efforts to beautify and modernize the city have brought Indianapolis into the 21st&nbsp;century as a world-class destination for everything from business meetings and trade conventions to backpackers making their way across the States. [[File:DT INDY 10-03-2010 JASSSMIT.JPG|alt=The Indianapolis skyline|thumb|Indianapolis began a project of downtown beautification in the 1990s—the skyline is seen here in 2010]] Indianapolis is widely hailed as the "Racing Capital of the World" because of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indy&nbsp;500 and Brickyard&nbsp;400 at the Brickyard, and as the "Amateur Sports Capital of America" for hosting the NCAA Hall of Champions. The city has several attractions outside of sports, including museums, a large zoo, over 100 ethnic restaurants, several arts and historic districts, and a revitalized downtown. Although Indy has been mocked with the epithet "India-noplace", visitors will encounter a mix of a large metropolitan city and a simple [[Midwest]]ern community. You will find beautiful architecture, monuments, and pristine cornfields in the Circle City. ==Understand== [[File:Indianapolis-indiana-from-above.jpg|alt=An aerial photograph of downtown Indianapolis|thumb|Indianapolis' downtown is cut through by the non-navigable waters of the White River]] The population is roughly 882,000 (2022), making it the 16th largest city in the United States, and the metro area has about 2&nbsp;million (#34). When Indianapolis was founded, it was expected to be a "Great Inland Port", but the White River turned out to be non-navigable most of the year. The pay-off is that this desire for a port left the city with a gorgeous canal district, though the canal itself is only useful for recreational kayaks and paddleboats. Today, Indianapolis is known as the "Crossroads of America" due to its centrality in America's Interstate Highway System. In general, travel in and through Indianapolis is safe, clean, and logical. Visitors can always find something to do without becoming overwhelmed at a sprawling metropolis. In a few minutes, you can go from a sleepy and peaceful cornfield to a vibrant downtown. City planning is intelligible to outsiders with a grid system broken up by a few major diagonal streets, a large beltway loop (I-465), and a general lack of gridlock and traffic. ==Get in== ===By train=== * {{see | name='''Indianapolis Union Station'''| alt= | url=https://www.amtrak.com/content/amtrak/en-us/stations/ind.html | address=350 South Illinois Street | lat=39.7625 | long=-86.1602 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A historic, and underused, grand station that has the distinction of being the first Union station. Most of the building has now been converted to other uses, including a hotel. Trains depart from southern end of the station, there is a small waiting room as well as ticket offices. }} **{{go|name='''Amtrak'''|alt=|url=https://www.amtrak.com/content/amtrak/en-us/stations/ind.html|address=350 South Illinois Street|lat=NA|long=NA|directions=|price=|content=Operates trains throughout the [[United States of America]].}} Route stopping in Indianapolis: *** '''[https://www.amtrak.com/cardinal-train Cardinal]''' operating three trips weekly between [[Chicago]] and [[New York City]]. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|39.76833|-86.15806|zoom=10|name=Indianapolis and Marion County. There are several "included cities" within this area that retain some independence, but for purposes of travel the only noticeable difference might be speed limits. Zoom in thrice to get a sense of the navigable portion of downtown.}} Outside of the walkable Downtown and some Cultural Districts, you'll need a vehicle to navigate the urban sprawl. The public bus system is fairly clean and efficient but routes are sometimes complex, and substantial portions of the metro area are inaccessible. Outside of peak hours, waits can be prohibitively long. Bike lanes alongside major roads have been constructed in the early 2010s, so cyclists will be sharing the road. ===By bike=== The [https://indyculturaltrail.org/ Indianapolis Cultural Trail] was built through several years in the early 21st century and takes riders through downtown providing signs with Indianapolis history; public art dots many stops and you will be guided past several restaurants and local businesses. [https://www.pacersbikeshare.org/ Indiana Pacers Bikeshare] provides free bike-sharing rides for up to 30 minutes at a time for all Marion County residents. For non-residents, ordinary bikes are $2 per ride + $0.20 per minute, and e-bikes are $5 + $0.25 per minute. With a bike you can easily navigate the area in and around downtown Indianapolis, including the following neighborhoods of note: [[File:Fountain Square Theatre in Indianapolis.jpg|alt=|thumb|The Fountain Square district is built around the historic Fountain Square Theatre. You can now get barbeque and go duckpin bowling in the structure.]] *{{marker|type=buy|name='''Mass Ave'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A hop skip and a jump from the Circle, Mass Ave has gone through an amazing rebirth to become one of the coolest shopping areas in town full of local shops. *{{marker|type=buy|name='''[http://www.fountainsquareindy.com/ Fountain Square]'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A historical area about a mile from downtown Indy, to the Southeast. Mainly comprising of antique, thrift and art shops. ==Enjoy== ===Landmarks=== [[File:Downtown Indianapolis panorama, 2015.jpg|alt=|thumb|The sun rising over downtown]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Capitol'''| alt= | url=https://www.in.gov/idoa/statehouse/home/ | address=200 W Washington St | lat=39.7689 | long=-86.1625 | directions=just west of Monument Circle | price=Free. Vehicles can be parked in nearby garages or at metered spots. Automobiles that violate the metered time policy risk receiving a ticket and having their automobiles towed | wikipedia=Indiana Statehouse | image=Capitol del Estado de Indiana, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 04.jpg | wikidata=Q1661319 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Completed in 1888, this is the hub for Indiana's state government, housing the Governor's office, the state legislature (State Senate and Indiana General Assembly) and the State Supreme Court. The first state capital was in the [[Southern Indiana]] town of [[Corydon]], and in 1825 it was moved to Indianapolis. Featuring Italian Renaissance, Greek, and Corinthian design, the building is made from primarily of Indiana limestone. Look up while in the Rotunda to see the amazing German stained glass window, take a guided or personal tour, or observe the government at work. }} *{{see | name='''Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument'''| alt= | url=https://www.in.gov/iwm/soldiers-and-sailors-monument/ | address=1 Monument Cir | lat=39.7687 | long=-86.1579 | directions=The center of the city | price=Fees for elevator: adults $3.00, elderly (65 and over): free, youngsters (12 and under): no charge. Free for US military personnel and veterans. There is no fee to walk the steps. During business hours, elevator tickets are available for purchase at the Monument Gift Shop | wikipedia=Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument (Indianapolis) | image=Monument Circle, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.jpg | wikidata=Q1748884 | lastedit=2024-10-4 | content=This is the well-known monument in the center of the city. It is only fifteen feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty, having been built in 1902. The monument's sculpted depictions of gory Civil War fights and emancipated slaves are powerful. With Miss Liberty facing south, she defends the north from the confederate. The Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War museum is located in the basement, and visitors can ride the tower to the top for a view of the city. The grounds on the Monument are a wonderful representation of the city itself; they combine the calm of quietly roaring water and verdant grass with the energy of Downtown. It's also a great place to people watch. Additionally, there's a tiny gift shop. William Henry Harrison, the first Governor of the Indiana Territory and the United States President for a single month, is depicted on a statue at the base. The south steps are closed for renovation until November 2025, costing $10 million. }} *{{see | name='''Indiana War Memorial & Museum'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/ | address=55 E Michigan St | lat=39.7735 | long=-86.157 | directions=Slightly north, Downtown | price=Admission to the museum is free | wikidata=Q2439742 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=This pillared structure has a war museum, an elaborate auditorium, and a shrine honoring World War I troops who lost their lives. }} *{{see | name='''Scottish Rite Cathedral'''| alt= | url=https://aasr-indy.org/ | address=650 N Meridian St | lat=39.7762 | long=-86.1585 | directions=slightly north, Downtown | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish Rite Cathedral (Indianapolis) | image=Catedral de tradición escocesa, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 02.jpg | wikidata=Q7437949 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=It is the largest Scottish Rite cathedral in the world and a masterpiece of architecture. Take a tour, investigate the enormous pipe organ, the floating dance floor, the hand-crafted art glass windows, discover the mystery surrounding Freemasonry, and stop by the cafe for a bite to eat. }} *{{see | name='''The American Legion National Headquarters'''| alt= | url=https://www.legion.org/ | address=700 N Pennsylvania St | lat=39.777167 | long=-86.155738 | directions=northside of downtown | price=Free or paid parking | wikidata=Q468865 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Situated in the heart of downtown Indy with a beautiful mall that reminds one of D.C. Check out the museum that features hundreds of World War I & II posters and artifacts, a diorama of [[w:Jessica Lynch|Jessica Lynch]]'s rescue, explore the grounds and learn about the Legion's history. }} *{{see | name='''Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/explore/medal-of-honor-memorial/ | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.7703 | long=-86.169 | directions=westside of Downtown | price=Free | wikidata=Q6805056 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Monument that is part of White River State Park that pays tribute to over 3,000 Medal of Honor recipients. Ranges from Civil War through modern day clashes. It is made up of 27 curved glass walls, each {{ft|7–10}} high, and etched with the names. It's quite breathtaking—especially at night. }} * {{see | name='''Indiana 9/11 Memorial'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/explore/indiana-9-11-memorial/ | address=421 W Ohio St | lat=39.7704 | long=-86.1657 | directions= | price=Free | wikipedia=Indiana 9/11 Memorial | image=Project 9-11 Indianapolis.jpg | wikidata=Q7248980 | lastedit=2024-01-16 | content= }} ===Museums=== [[File:Indiana War Memorial at night.jpg|alt=|thumb|300px|The colossal Indiana War Memorial]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Museum'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianamuseum.org/ | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.769 | long=-86.1693 | directions=Westside of Downtown | price=Adult $19, senior (60+) $17, youth $13, child under 3 free | wikipedia=Indiana State Museum | wikidata=Q6023430 | lastedit=2024-09-20 | content=One of the most exquisite residences in the nation is the new state museum. Discover Indiana's history, from dinosaurs and fossil discoveries to the American Civil War, World War II, and the present. Discover a hall honoring well-known Hoosiers, take advantage of the IMAX theater and special events, and stroll about White River State Park's grounds to see the sculpture garden honoring Indiana's counties. A must-watch. The little gift shop offers plush toys, gourmet beverages, unusual candies, and trinkets with Indiana themes. With its seasonal menus and freshly made soups, salads, and sandwiches, the Farmers Market Café offers a menu that pays homage to Indiana's past as a supplier of local, fresh produce. The famed chicken velvet soup is served at the historic L.S. Ayres Tea Room. }} *{{see | name='''James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home & Visitor Center'''| alt= | url=https://rileymuseumhome.org/ | address=528 Lockerbie St | lat=39.773 | long=-86.1475 | directions=eastside of Downtown | price=Adult $10, student #1, children 6 and under free | wikidata=Q6145403 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=See the house where the renowned writer and poet spent the latter part of his life. "The Children's Poet" is how Riley is recognized. One of the best maintained Victorian homes in the nation, the house has been featured in ''Architectural Digest''. The house has never undergone renovations; every piece of furniture, up to the carpet, is original and dates back to 1916. See his possessions, collection of antiques, and background by taking a tour. }} *{{see | name='''Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site'''| alt= | url=https://bhpsite.org/ | address=1230 N Delaware St | lat=39.784 | long=-86.1543 | directions=Northside of Downtown | price=Adult $16, veteran $15, senior $15, college student $11, child $11, pre-school free | wikidata=Q4888783 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=The only Indianan to become U.S. president to date, holding office for one term (1889–1893). See this hero of the Civil War's stunning 1875 home, constructed in the Italianate Victorian style. It has three stories and is crammed with personal items, artwork, political mementos, and antiques. There is a First Ladies display in the carriage house at the back. They host entertaining events all year long, many of which feature outstanding reenactments of historical individuals from Indiana. A naturalization ceremony, tours of Victorian murder mysteries, and the always entertaining croquet competition are all held there. }} *{{see | name='''Newfields'''| alt=Indianapolis Museum of Art | url=https://discovernewfields.org | address=4000 Michigan Rd | lat=39.8259 | long=-86.1855 | directions=10&nbsp;minutes north of Downtown | price=Adult $20, child 5 & under free, youth 6-17 $13, Access Pass $2 (certain areas of the IMA campus are free, including the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres, the IMA Café, Museum Store, and Five Brushstrokes) | wikipedia=Indianapolis Museum of Art | image=Indy-Art-Museum-Szmurlo.jpg | wikidata=Q1117704 | content=Reopened following a multi-million dollar renovation it's one of the most beautiful buildings in the country for fine art. Founded in 1883, this is one of the oldest art museums in the country, boasting over 50,000 pieces of art and an amazing public art library. Exhibits include Contemporary Art, European Art, Asian Art, African Art, Textile Art, and more. Rotating and traveling exhibits are abundant. Experience hands-on exhibits where you can create your own art, walk the amazing grounds exploring the sculptures, gardens, and homes, shop at the museum store and eat and drink at the IMA Cafe and Wolfgang Puck's namesake restaurant—this is the city he got his start in. On Thursdays and Fridays 5–9PM, the museum has a special "happy hour" for hip and artsy socialites at Puck's featuring cocktails and hors d'oeurves. Also on the grounds are the Oldfields–Lilly House & Gardens, the former estate of the Lillys. They are located on {{convert|26|acre|ha}} grounds with a 22-room mansion, gardens, and museum. }} * {{see | name='''Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library'''| alt= | url=https://www.vonnegutlibrary.org/ | address=543 Indiana Avenue | lat=39.7725 | long=-86.163333 | directions= | price=Adults $12, seniors/educators/military $10, students $8. Free on first M of each month | wikidata=Q6447107 | lastedit=2024-10-04 | content=A museum dedicated to literary and cultural contributions of author and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut. }} *{{see | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum'''| alt= | url=http://www.indyracingmuseum.org/ | address=4790 W 16th St | lat=39.7902 | long=-86.2306 | directions=Speedway, Westside | price=$10 adult, $5 child, 5 and under free | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum | image=IMS HOF Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q6023901 | content=The IMA is the home of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, the Indianapolis 500. On the IMS grounds you will find the Museum which houses the world's largest collection of racing, classic, and antique cars. Check out 30 of the Indy 500 winner's cars, a 20-minute film about the history of the race, a souvenir shop and cafe. If you would like to see more of the track facilities, you also can pay a few bucks to ride in a bus around the actual race track (at about 40&nbsp;miles or 65&nbsp;km an hour). Or, for the more adventurous souls, you can try the Indy Racing Experience Driving Program where you can ride in a 2-seater Indy Car and experience speeds around the track up to 180&nbsp;miles or 300&nbsp;km an hour. }} [[File:Indiana State House 2.jpg|thumb|250px|The Indiana State House]] ===Festivals and events=== [[File:Indianapolis mini-marathon at the Motor Speedway, 2018.jpg|alt=A row of runners|thumb|Runners in the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon reaching the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2018. This is one of several preludes to the Indy 500.]] *''May'', {{listing | name='''The Indianapolis 500'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/events/indy500 | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=One of the largest sporting events in the world. The westside of the city and Speedway gets swamped and if you like big crowds, loud cars, and tailgating, this is for you. One of several events leading up to it is the largest mini-marathon in the world, so if you're extra ambitious, come early and run for {{mi|13.1}} (or a more modest but still impressive {{km|5}}). }} *''Early-Mid August'', {{listing | name='''Indiana State Fair'''| alt= | url=http://www.in.gov/statefair/ | address=State Fairgrounds | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The biggest summer event in the state. A trip to Indiana isn't complete without a trip to the fair. Animals, crafts, art, rides, dancing, education, environmentalism, Hoosier Pride and food. They also have live music and concerts. Prairie Home Companion comes every other year. Although many locals usually complain about the food being largely overpriced. }} *''Early August'', {{listing | name='''Gen Con'''| alt= | url=http://www.gencon.com | address=Indiana Convention Center, 100 South Capitol Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The "best four days of gaming" in the world comes to Indianapolis every year. Thousands congregate from all over the world to play games of all types, meet sci-fi and fantasy film stars, purchase gamer goods and hang with others. The freakiest time of the year in downtown Indy. }} ===Parks=== [[File:C4241-Indianapolis-Canal.jpg|alt=|thumb|Downtown's Canal District reserves a plot of land for Military Park]] '''[http://www.indy.gov/eGov/City/dpr/Pages/IndyParksHome.aspx Indy Parks]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' features information and links regarding all Indianapolis public parks. Below is an example of some of the city's finest, which attract visitors and locals alike. *{{see | name='''Eagle Creek Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/133 | address=7840 W 56th St | lat=39.854505 | long=-86.301777 | directions=Accessible from I-465 | price= | lastedit=2025-06-01 | content=On the west side of Indy, this huge park boasts many amenities, including a nature center, fitness course, fishing areas, and bird sanctuary. Fill your day with sailing, bird watching, fishing, rowing, hiking, swimming, ziplining. Only 10&nbsp;minutes from downtown. Admission: $7/car for non-Marion county Residents. }} *{{see | name='''Garfield Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/521 | address=2345 Pagoda Dr | lat=39.734213 | long=-86.1519037 | directions= | price= | content=Oldest park in Indianapolis, established in 1881. Home of the Garfield Park Conservatory, which houses {{convert|10,000|ft2|m2}} of plants from all over the world, and the Sunken Gardens, built in 1916, which consist of {{convert|3|acres|ha}} of European classical formal gardens, which change based on the season. Other features include an arts center, MacAllister Center for the Performing Arts, swimming pool and aquatic center, picnic shelters, pagoda, tennis courts, softball diamond, numerous trails, horse shoe courts, playgrounds, sledding hill and countless other park activities. Free for most activities. Free parking. }} [[File:Skiles Test Nature Park.jpg|alt=Trees turning shade in autumn|thumb|Indianapolis has state parks, conservancies, small reserved areas downtown, and the natural resource area of Skiles Test Nature Park (pictured here in autumn).]] *{{see | name='''Holliday Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/10 | address=6363 Spring Mill Rd | lat=39.871071 | long=-86.1634226 | directions= | price= | content=One of the oldest and coolest parks in town. Planted right on the White River with swamps, ponds, wildflower gardens, birdwatching sanctuaries, a renovated nature center, sculpture garden, and countless wildlife and plant life. In the warm months parents take their kids to play on the best playground in the city, and locals picnic, lay out, read and host family gatherings at the extensive parkland. A great place to wade and collect rocks too. 95 acres of trails and woodland, a must see. }} *{{see | name='''White River State Park'''| alt= | url=https://www.whiteriverstatepark.org/ | address=801 W Washington St | lat=39.770778 | long=-86.167145 | directions= | price=Free and paid parking | content=Home to the Indianapolis Zoo, White River Gardens, Victory Field, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art, Indiana State Museum, IMAX Theater, and NCAA Hall of Champions. It also has The Lawn near the river, which is host to concerts during each summer. Central Canal is also located within the park. Park passes are available for purchase, entrance to all 7 of the main attractions is included in the pass. }} ===Art=== *{{see | name='''Indiana Repertory Theatre'''| alt= | url=https://www.irtlive.com/ | address=140 W Washington St | lat=39.7675 | long=-86.1611 | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Repertory Theatre | wikidata=Q6023385 | content=Some of the nation's finest actors perform in this architectural masterpiece of a theater. Two theaters provide different types of performances, and their famous version of ''A Christmas Carol'' is a classic. Be sure to check out their Shakespeare performances. Dress up in your Sunday best and see a matinee to save some bucks. Cocktails are served. All ages. }} ===Sports=== *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway''' | lat=NA | long=NA | alt= | url=http://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/ | email= | address=4790 W 16th St | directions= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway | image=Indianapolis Motor Speedway (15982572368) (cropped).jpg | wikidata=Q172732 | content=It is Indy's pride and joy sporting landmark. Several motor races take place here, most notably the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400 and Indycar Grand Prix. Check out the museum, or a race depending on your visit. Ticket prices aren't cheap to the main affairs, but just attending one of the many practices or qualifications during the racing season (May–Sep) is well worth the experience. A must-see when visiting Indy, for race lovers or not. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Pacers'''| alt= | url=http://www.nba.com/pacers/ | address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Pacers | wikidata=Q170329 | content=NBA member, the Pacers can be seen live at their home court November–April. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Fever'''| alt= | url=https://fever.wnba.com |address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Fever | wikidata=Q1631017 | content=A member of the WNBA, the Fever plays from June–September, and tickets were quite a bit cheaper than their NBA counterparts before the 2024 arrival of college basketball icon Caitlin Clark. In Clark's first season, the Fever set new WNBA single-season records for average and total attendance, and even outdrew the Pacers. The team, which shares ownership with the Pacers, also plays in Gainbridge Fieldhouse. }} [[File:LucasOil.JPG|thumb|right|Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Colts]] *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Colts'''| alt= | url=http://www.colts.com/ | address=500 S Capitol Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Colts | wikidata=Q193753 | content=[[American Football|The NFL's]] Indianapolis Colts football season runs from August–January. The Colts play home games at Lucas Oil Stadium, a retractable-roof stadium that opened in 2008, which hosts many other sporting events, competitions, and concert events throughout the year. }} *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Indians'''| alt= | url=http://www.milb.com/indianapolis | address=501 W Maryland St | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price=$11–30 | wikipedia=Indianapolis Indians | image=Victory Field.jpg | wikidata=Q2748815 | content=The AAA minor league affiliate for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Their home stadium, Victory Field, has been deemed the best minor league baseball stadium in the country. Pack a picnic and sit in the outfield next to the famous teepee during the game (and catch a few balls if you're lucky) or get a seat in the stands. }} ===Bars=== Bars close at 3AM; 12:30AM on Sundays. Alcohol can be bought in stores on Sundays from Noon to 8 PM. Age requirements vary and are listed below. *{{see | name='''Alley Cat'''| alt= | url= | address=6267 Carrollton Ave | lat=39.86944 | long=-86.14459 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A dive bar in Broad Ripple, down an alley. No windows, smoke-ridden, and open at 7AM for breakfast till 3AM for dinner. A great jukebox, legendary bar staff, numerous pool tables, and the hardest drinks in town. Sometimes bands play too. A place you know will never change. Vegetarian friendly. 21+ }} [[File:Mass Ave.jpg|alt=A large painting of Vonnegut on the side of a building|thumb|Hometown hero Kurt Vonnegut is honored by a large painting on Mass Ave. blocks from the Rathskeller designed by his family.]] *{{see | name='''Kellerbar at the Rathskeller'''| alt= | url=http://www.rathskeller.com/ | address=401 E Michigan St | lat=39.77377 | long=-86.15031 | directions= | price= | content=Located inside the Rathskeller German restaurant, this is a place to drink beers from around the world and sop it all up with German food. During the warm months, this is one of the busiest bars in town. Get there early to enjoy a quieter beer or two; the bar opens up in the afternoon and you can enjoy their in-house brew (the Dunkel is particularly good) outside in the Biergarten or inside in the cozy oak bar that emulates a German castle. Later in the evening on the weekends, cover bands rock out in the garden and drunk college students go wild. }} *{{see | name='''Metro'''| alt= | url=http://www.metro-indy.com | address=707 Massachusetts Ave | lat=39.77649 | long=-86.14661 | directions= | price= | content=A laid back, casual environment with a pub downstairs and a modern pool hall upstairs. Their karaoke is legendary—featuring people who really can sing. Upstairs they also feature a sex/bdsm shop for kinky goods. Speaking of kink, food is served. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''The Vogue'''| alt= | url=http://www.thevogue.com/ | address=6259 N College Ave | lat=39.86922 | long=-86.14586 | directions= | price= | content=A movie theater built in the 1930s, in the 1970s it opened up as a music venue and nightclub. Now, it's the place for college kids to get wasted on the weekends and dance to top 40 and retro tunes. You'll also find great live music and past acts include Cheap Trick, Johnny Cash, David Byrne, The White Stripes, Common, Sean Paul, The Faint, VHS Or Beta, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams III, The Black Keys and more. Cover varies. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''Slippery Noodle Inn'''| alt= | url=http://www.slipperynoodle.com/ | address=372 S Meridian St | lat=39.76164 | long=-86.15883 | directions= | price= | content=The oldest bar in Indiana since 1850. It used to be a brothel, and it's now the best blues bar in the city. Steaks, homemade soup, baked potatoes, sandwiches and subs are the starts of the menu with a classic bar menu to boot. Beer, champagne, wine, and of course—hard liquor is poured with pride and the blues is local and national/international acts. There are still bullet holes in the wall from brawls in the 1800s. Dis is it. 21+ }} ===Other Food and Drink=== *{{eat | name='''Yats'''| alt= | url=http://www.yatscajuncreole.com/ | address=5650 W 86th St | lat=39.91252 | long=-86.26147 | price= | content=Indy's top restaurant for Cajun food. Sharing four locations, owned by a New Orleans native transplant, you'll feel like you're in the Crescent City. Large quantities of limited meals are offered up each day—and each is so tasty you'll be content. Pig out on great Cajun eats in a fun artsy environment. Vegan food available too. Hipsters and punks serve up your meals and sodas are refillable and mere $1. A great deal for a lot of enjoyable food. The chili cheese crawfish etouffe is their signature dish, but the jambalaya is also outstanding. Vegan friendly. }} *{{eat | name='''Sabor Venezolano'''| alt= | url=https://saborvenezolanorestaurantbarin.com/ | address=4930 Lafayette Rd Ste E | lat=39.84355 | long=-86.25452 | directions= | price= | content=Casual venue offering traditional Venezuelan eats, including a delicious cachapa. }} *{{eat | name='''Yummy Bowl'''| alt= | url=https://www.yummybowlindianapolis.com/ | address=3451 W 86th St | lat=39.91134335840361 | long=-86.21812603800274 | directions= | price= | content=Home of local ''Chipotlé''-style Mongolian dishes. }} *{{eat | name='''Easley Winery'''| alt= | url=https://www.easleywinery.com/ | address=205 N College Ave | lat=39.769827 | long=-86.145158 | directions= | price= | lastedit=2016-03-03 | content=The oldest winery in downtown Indy. Free guided tours, wine tasting, and events. In warm months they feature after-work cocktails and live music. Check out the wine-shop featuring tons of wine and beer making goods. }} *{{eat | name='''Traders Point Creamery'''| alt= | url=http://www.traderspointcreamery.com | address=9101 Moore Rd | lat=39.91754 | long=-86.28764 | directions= | price= | content=Indy's only grass-fed USDA organic dairy. They are always open with their self-serve dairy-shop (with a bucket you pay and take your change from—honesty basis), and at 4PM you can watch the cows get milked au naturel. Creamy milk, amazing yogurt (voted #1 by the American Cheese Society in 2005), ice cream, eggs and cheeses are all for sale. On the weekends they feature a farmers market and organic cafe. You can walk the grounds petting cows and chasing chickens. Fun for the family and eco-friendly folk. }} ==Connect== ===Television=== *'''[https://www.wthr.com/ WTHR 13]''' NBC *'''[https://www.wfyi.org/ WFYI 20]''' PBS ===Newspapers=== *'''[http://www.indystar.com ''Indianapolis Star''].''' The city's daily and Sunday paper. Formerly locally owned, now published by national syndicate Gannett. {{isPartOf|Nine-County Region}} {{hasDocent|Koavf}} cgi6nluyul73zqrdso0z3c3vdh3qvm1 5288981 5288963 2026-06-07T04:20:13Z MichaelGintz 2415262 5288981 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Indianapolisbanner-night.jpg|caption=The downtown canal at night|alt=A pathway next to the water with lights on either side}} '''Indianapolis''' is the capital of [[Indiana]] and also the state’s largest city. Efforts to beautify and modernize the city have brought Indianapolis into the 21st&nbsp;century as a world-class destination for everything from business meetings and trade conventions to backpackers making their way across the States. [[File:DT INDY 10-03-2010 JASSSMIT.JPG|alt=The Indianapolis skyline|thumb|Indianapolis began a project of downtown beautification in the 1990s—the skyline is seen here in 2010]] Indianapolis is widely hailed as the "Racing Capital of the World" because of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indy&nbsp;500 and Brickyard&nbsp;400 at the Brickyard, and as the "Amateur Sports Capital of America" for hosting the NCAA Hall of Champions. The city has several attractions outside of sports, including museums, a large zoo, over 100 ethnic restaurants, several arts and historic districts, and a revitalized downtown. Although Indy has been mocked with the epithet "India-noplace", visitors will encounter a mix of a large metropolitan city and a simple [[Midwest]]ern community. You will find beautiful architecture, monuments, and pristine cornfields in the Circle City. ==Understand== [[File:Indianapolis-indiana-from-above.jpg|alt=An aerial photograph of downtown Indianapolis|thumb|Indianapolis' downtown is cut through by the non-navigable waters of the White River]] The population is roughly 882,000 (2022), making it the 16th largest city in the United States, and the metro area has about 2&nbsp;million (#34). When Indianapolis was founded, it was expected to be a "Great Inland Port", but the White River turned out to be non-navigable most of the year. The pay-off is that this desire for a port left the city with a gorgeous canal district, though the canal itself is only useful for recreational kayaks and paddleboats. Today, Indianapolis is known as the "Crossroads of America" due to its centrality in America's Interstate Highway System. In general, travel in and through Indianapolis is safe, clean, and logical. Visitors can always find something to do without becoming overwhelmed at a sprawling metropolis. In a few minutes, you can go from a sleepy and peaceful cornfield to a vibrant downtown. City planning is intelligible to outsiders with a grid system broken up by a few major diagonal streets, a large beltway loop (I-465), and a general lack of gridlock and traffic. ==Get in== ===By train=== * {{see | name='''Indianapolis Union Station'''| alt= | url=https://www.amtrak.com/content/amtrak/en-us/stations/ind.html | address=350 South Illinois Street | lat=39.7625 | long=-86.1602 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A historic, and underused, grand station that has the distinction of being the first Union station. Most of the building has now been converted to other uses, including a hotel. Trains depart from southern end of the station, there is a small waiting room as well as ticket offices. }} **{{go|name='''Amtrak'''|alt=|url=https://www.amtrak.com/content/amtrak/en-us/stations/ind.html|address=350 South Illinois Street|lat=NA|long=NA|directions=|price=|content=Operates trains throughout the [[United States of America]].}} Route stopping in Indianapolis: *** '''[https://www.amtrak.com/cardinal-train Cardinal]''' operating three trips weekly between [[Chicago]] and [[New York City]]. ==Get around== [[File:Indianapolis-downtown-gintz.png|thumb|Downtown Indianapolis]] {{Mapframe|39.76833|-86.15806|zoom=10|name=Indianapolis and Marion County. There are several "included cities" within this area that retain some independence, but for purposes of travel the only noticeable difference might be speed limits. Zoom in thrice to get a sense of the navigable portion of downtown.}} Outside of the walkable Downtown and some Cultural Districts, you'll need a vehicle to navigate the urban sprawl. The public bus system is fairly clean and efficient but routes are sometimes complex, and substantial portions of the metro area are inaccessible. Outside of peak hours, waits can be prohibitively long. Bike lanes alongside major roads have been constructed in the early 2010s, so cyclists will be sharing the road. ===By bike=== The [https://indyculturaltrail.org/ Indianapolis Cultural Trail] was built through several years in the early 21st century and takes riders through downtown providing signs with Indianapolis history; public art dots many stops and you will be guided past several restaurants and local businesses. [https://www.pacersbikeshare.org/ Indiana Pacers Bikeshare] provides free bike-sharing rides for up to 30 minutes at a time for all Marion County residents. For non-residents, ordinary bikes are $2 per ride + $0.20 per minute, and e-bikes are $5 + $0.25 per minute. With a bike you can easily navigate the area in and around downtown Indianapolis, including the following neighborhoods of note: [[File:Fountain Square Theatre in Indianapolis.jpg|alt=|thumb|The Fountain Square district is built around the historic Fountain Square Theatre. You can now get barbeque and go duckpin bowling in the structure.]] *{{marker|type=buy|name='''Mass Ave'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A hop skip and a jump from the Circle, Mass Ave has gone through an amazing rebirth to become one of the coolest shopping areas in town full of local shops. *{{marker|type=buy|name='''[http://www.fountainsquareindy.com/ Fountain Square]'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A historical area about a mile from downtown Indy, to the Southeast. Mainly comprising of antique, thrift and art shops. ==Enjoy== ===Landmarks=== [[File:Downtown Indianapolis panorama, 2015.jpg|alt=|thumb|The sun rising over downtown]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Capitol'''| alt= | url=https://www.in.gov/idoa/statehouse/home/ | address=200 W Washington St | lat=39.7689 | long=-86.1625 | directions=just west of Monument Circle | price=Free. Vehicles can be parked in nearby garages or at metered spots. Automobiles that violate the metered time policy risk receiving a ticket and having their automobiles towed | wikipedia=Indiana Statehouse | image=Capitol del Estado de Indiana, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 04.jpg | wikidata=Q1661319 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Completed in 1888, this is the hub for Indiana's state government, housing the Governor's office, the state legislature (State Senate and Indiana General Assembly) and the State Supreme Court. The first state capital was in the [[Southern Indiana]] town of [[Corydon]], and in 1825 it was moved to Indianapolis. Featuring Italian Renaissance, Greek, and Corinthian design, the building is made from primarily of Indiana limestone. Look up while in the Rotunda to see the amazing German stained glass window, take a guided or personal tour, or observe the government at work. }} *{{see | name='''Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument'''| alt= | url=https://www.in.gov/iwm/soldiers-and-sailors-monument/ | address=1 Monument Cir | lat=39.7687 | long=-86.1579 | directions=The center of the city | price=Fees for elevator: adults $3.00, elderly (65 and over): free, youngsters (12 and under): no charge. Free for US military personnel and veterans. There is no fee to walk the steps. During business hours, elevator tickets are available for purchase at the Monument Gift Shop | wikipedia=Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument (Indianapolis) | image=Monument Circle, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.jpg | wikidata=Q1748884 | lastedit=2024-10-4 | content=This is the well-known monument in the center of the city. It is only fifteen feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty, having been built in 1902. The monument's sculpted depictions of gory Civil War fights and emancipated slaves are powerful. With Miss Liberty facing south, she defends the north from the confederate. The Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War museum is located in the basement, and visitors can ride the tower to the top for a view of the city. The grounds on the Monument are a wonderful representation of the city itself; they combine the calm of quietly roaring water and verdant grass with the energy of Downtown. It's also a great place to people watch. Additionally, there's a tiny gift shop. William Henry Harrison, the first Governor of the Indiana Territory and the United States President for a single month, is depicted on a statue at the base. The south steps are closed for renovation until November 2025, costing $10 million. }} *{{see | name='''Indiana War Memorial & Museum'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/ | address=55 E Michigan St | lat=39.7735 | long=-86.157 | directions=Slightly north, Downtown | price=Admission to the museum is free | wikidata=Q2439742 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=This pillared structure has a war museum, an elaborate auditorium, and a shrine honoring World War I troops who lost their lives. }} *{{see | name='''Scottish Rite Cathedral'''| alt= | url=https://aasr-indy.org/ | address=650 N Meridian St | lat=39.7762 | long=-86.1585 | directions=slightly north, Downtown | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish Rite Cathedral (Indianapolis) | image=Catedral de tradición escocesa, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 02.jpg | wikidata=Q7437949 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=It is the largest Scottish Rite cathedral in the world and a masterpiece of architecture. Take a tour, investigate the enormous pipe organ, the floating dance floor, the hand-crafted art glass windows, discover the mystery surrounding Freemasonry, and stop by the cafe for a bite to eat. }} *{{see | name='''The American Legion National Headquarters'''| alt= | url=https://www.legion.org/ | address=700 N Pennsylvania St | lat=39.777167 | long=-86.155738 | directions=northside of downtown | price=Free or paid parking | wikidata=Q468865 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Situated in the heart of downtown Indy with a beautiful mall that reminds one of D.C. Check out the museum that features hundreds of World War I & II posters and artifacts, a diorama of [[w:Jessica Lynch|Jessica Lynch]]'s rescue, explore the grounds and learn about the Legion's history. }} *{{see | name='''Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/explore/medal-of-honor-memorial/ | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.7703 | long=-86.169 | directions=westside of Downtown | price=Free | wikidata=Q6805056 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Monument that is part of White River State Park that pays tribute to over 3,000 Medal of Honor recipients. Ranges from Civil War through modern day clashes. It is made up of 27 curved glass walls, each {{ft|7–10}} high, and etched with the names. It's quite breathtaking—especially at night. }} * {{see | name='''Indiana 9/11 Memorial'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/explore/indiana-9-11-memorial/ | address=421 W Ohio St | lat=39.7704 | long=-86.1657 | directions= | price=Free | wikipedia=Indiana 9/11 Memorial | image=Project 9-11 Indianapolis.jpg | wikidata=Q7248980 | lastedit=2024-01-16 | content= }} ===Museums=== [[File:Indiana War Memorial at night.jpg|alt=|thumb|300px|The colossal Indiana War Memorial]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Museum'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianamuseum.org/ | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.769 | long=-86.1693 | directions=Westside of Downtown | price=Adult $19, senior (60+) $17, youth $13, child under 3 free | wikipedia=Indiana State Museum | wikidata=Q6023430 | lastedit=2024-09-20 | content=One of the most exquisite residences in the nation is the new state museum. Discover Indiana's history, from dinosaurs and fossil discoveries to the American Civil War, World War II, and the present. Discover a hall honoring well-known Hoosiers, take advantage of the IMAX theater and special events, and stroll about White River State Park's grounds to see the sculpture garden honoring Indiana's counties. A must-watch. The little gift shop offers plush toys, gourmet beverages, unusual candies, and trinkets with Indiana themes. With its seasonal menus and freshly made soups, salads, and sandwiches, the Farmers Market Café offers a menu that pays homage to Indiana's past as a supplier of local, fresh produce. The famed chicken velvet soup is served at the historic L.S. Ayres Tea Room. }} *{{see | name='''James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home & Visitor Center'''| alt= | url=https://rileymuseumhome.org/ | address=528 Lockerbie St | lat=39.773 | long=-86.1475 | directions=eastside of Downtown | price=Adult $10, student #1, children 6 and under free | wikidata=Q6145403 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=See the house where the renowned writer and poet spent the latter part of his life. "The Children's Poet" is how Riley is recognized. One of the best maintained Victorian homes in the nation, the house has been featured in ''Architectural Digest''. The house has never undergone renovations; every piece of furniture, up to the carpet, is original and dates back to 1916. See his possessions, collection of antiques, and background by taking a tour. }} *{{see | name='''Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site'''| alt= | url=https://bhpsite.org/ | address=1230 N Delaware St | lat=39.784 | long=-86.1543 | directions=Northside of Downtown | price=Adult $16, veteran $15, senior $15, college student $11, child $11, pre-school free | wikidata=Q4888783 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=The only Indianan to become U.S. president to date, holding office for one term (1889–1893). See this hero of the Civil War's stunning 1875 home, constructed in the Italianate Victorian style. It has three stories and is crammed with personal items, artwork, political mementos, and antiques. There is a First Ladies display in the carriage house at the back. They host entertaining events all year long, many of which feature outstanding reenactments of historical individuals from Indiana. A naturalization ceremony, tours of Victorian murder mysteries, and the always entertaining croquet competition are all held there. }} *{{see | name='''Newfields'''| alt=Indianapolis Museum of Art | url=https://discovernewfields.org | address=4000 Michigan Rd | lat=39.8259 | long=-86.1855 | directions=10&nbsp;minutes north of Downtown | price=Adult $20, child 5 & under free, youth 6-17 $13, Access Pass $2 (certain areas of the IMA campus are free, including the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres, the IMA Café, Museum Store, and Five Brushstrokes) | wikipedia=Indianapolis Museum of Art | image=Indy-Art-Museum-Szmurlo.jpg | wikidata=Q1117704 | content=Reopened following a multi-million dollar renovation it's one of the most beautiful buildings in the country for fine art. Founded in 1883, this is one of the oldest art museums in the country, boasting over 50,000 pieces of art and an amazing public art library. Exhibits include Contemporary Art, European Art, Asian Art, African Art, Textile Art, and more. Rotating and traveling exhibits are abundant. Experience hands-on exhibits where you can create your own art, walk the amazing grounds exploring the sculptures, gardens, and homes, shop at the museum store and eat and drink at the IMA Cafe and Wolfgang Puck's namesake restaurant—this is the city he got his start in. On Thursdays and Fridays 5–9PM, the museum has a special "happy hour" for hip and artsy socialites at Puck's featuring cocktails and hors d'oeurves. Also on the grounds are the Oldfields–Lilly House & Gardens, the former estate of the Lillys. They are located on {{convert|26|acre|ha}} grounds with a 22-room mansion, gardens, and museum. }} * {{see | name='''Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library'''| alt= | url=https://www.vonnegutlibrary.org/ | address=543 Indiana Avenue | lat=39.7725 | long=-86.163333 | directions= | price=Adults $12, seniors/educators/military $10, students $8. Free on first M of each month | wikidata=Q6447107 | lastedit=2024-10-04 | content=A museum dedicated to literary and cultural contributions of author and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut. }} *{{see | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum'''| alt= | url=http://www.indyracingmuseum.org/ | address=4790 W 16th St | lat=39.7902 | long=-86.2306 | directions=Speedway, Westside | price=$10 adult, $5 child, 5 and under free | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum | image=IMS HOF Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q6023901 | content=The IMA is the home of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, the Indianapolis 500. On the IMS grounds you will find the Museum which houses the world's largest collection of racing, classic, and antique cars. Check out 30 of the Indy 500 winner's cars, a 20-minute film about the history of the race, a souvenir shop and cafe. If you would like to see more of the track facilities, you also can pay a few bucks to ride in a bus around the actual race track (at about 40&nbsp;miles or 65&nbsp;km an hour). Or, for the more adventurous souls, you can try the Indy Racing Experience Driving Program where you can ride in a 2-seater Indy Car and experience speeds around the track up to 180&nbsp;miles or 300&nbsp;km an hour. }} [[File:Indiana State House 2.jpg|thumb|250px|The Indiana State House]] ===Festivals and events=== [[File:Indianapolis mini-marathon at the Motor Speedway, 2018.jpg|alt=A row of runners|thumb|Runners in the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon reaching the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2018. This is one of several preludes to the Indy 500.]] *''May'', {{listing | name='''The Indianapolis 500'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/events/indy500 | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=One of the largest sporting events in the world. The westside of the city and Speedway gets swamped and if you like big crowds, loud cars, and tailgating, this is for you. One of several events leading up to it is the largest mini-marathon in the world, so if you're extra ambitious, come early and run for {{mi|13.1}} (or a more modest but still impressive {{km|5}}). }} *''Early-Mid August'', {{listing | name='''Indiana State Fair'''| alt= | url=http://www.in.gov/statefair/ | address=State Fairgrounds | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The biggest summer event in the state. A trip to Indiana isn't complete without a trip to the fair. Animals, crafts, art, rides, dancing, education, environmentalism, Hoosier Pride and food. They also have live music and concerts. Prairie Home Companion comes every other year. Although many locals usually complain about the food being largely overpriced. }} *''Early August'', {{listing | name='''Gen Con'''| alt= | url=http://www.gencon.com | address=Indiana Convention Center, 100 South Capitol Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The "best four days of gaming" in the world comes to Indianapolis every year. Thousands congregate from all over the world to play games of all types, meet sci-fi and fantasy film stars, purchase gamer goods and hang with others. The freakiest time of the year in downtown Indy. }} ===Parks=== [[File:C4241-Indianapolis-Canal.jpg|alt=|thumb|Downtown's Canal District reserves a plot of land for Military Park]] '''[http://www.indy.gov/eGov/City/dpr/Pages/IndyParksHome.aspx Indy Parks]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' features information and links regarding all Indianapolis public parks. Below is an example of some of the city's finest, which attract visitors and locals alike. *{{see | name='''Eagle Creek Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/133 | address=7840 W 56th St | lat=39.854505 | long=-86.301777 | directions=Accessible from I-465 | price= | lastedit=2025-06-01 | content=On the west side of Indy, this huge park boasts many amenities, including a nature center, fitness course, fishing areas, and bird sanctuary. Fill your day with sailing, bird watching, fishing, rowing, hiking, swimming, ziplining. Only 10&nbsp;minutes from downtown. Admission: $7/car for non-Marion county Residents. }} *{{see | name='''Garfield Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/521 | address=2345 Pagoda Dr | lat=39.734213 | long=-86.1519037 | directions= | price= | content=Oldest park in Indianapolis, established in 1881. Home of the Garfield Park Conservatory, which houses {{convert|10,000|ft2|m2}} of plants from all over the world, and the Sunken Gardens, built in 1916, which consist of {{convert|3|acres|ha}} of European classical formal gardens, which change based on the season. Other features include an arts center, MacAllister Center for the Performing Arts, swimming pool and aquatic center, picnic shelters, pagoda, tennis courts, softball diamond, numerous trails, horse shoe courts, playgrounds, sledding hill and countless other park activities. Free for most activities. Free parking. }} [[File:Skiles Test Nature Park.jpg|alt=Trees turning shade in autumn|thumb|Indianapolis has state parks, conservancies, small reserved areas downtown, and the natural resource area of Skiles Test Nature Park (pictured here in autumn).]] *{{see | name='''Holliday Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/10 | address=6363 Spring Mill Rd | lat=39.871071 | long=-86.1634226 | directions= | price= | content=One of the oldest and coolest parks in town. Planted right on the White River with swamps, ponds, wildflower gardens, birdwatching sanctuaries, a renovated nature center, sculpture garden, and countless wildlife and plant life. In the warm months parents take their kids to play on the best playground in the city, and locals picnic, lay out, read and host family gatherings at the extensive parkland. A great place to wade and collect rocks too. 95 acres of trails and woodland, a must see. }} *{{see | name='''White River State Park'''| alt= | url=https://www.whiteriverstatepark.org/ | address=801 W Washington St | lat=39.770778 | long=-86.167145 | directions= | price=Free and paid parking | content=Home to the Indianapolis Zoo, White River Gardens, Victory Field, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art, Indiana State Museum, IMAX Theater, and NCAA Hall of Champions. It also has The Lawn near the river, which is host to concerts during each summer. Central Canal is also located within the park. Park passes are available for purchase, entrance to all 7 of the main attractions is included in the pass. }} ===Art=== *{{see | name='''Indiana Repertory Theatre'''| alt= | url=https://www.irtlive.com/ | address=140 W Washington St | lat=39.7675 | long=-86.1611 | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Repertory Theatre | wikidata=Q6023385 | content=Some of the nation's finest actors perform in this architectural masterpiece of a theater. Two theaters provide different types of performances, and their famous version of ''A Christmas Carol'' is a classic. Be sure to check out their Shakespeare performances. Dress up in your Sunday best and see a matinee to save some bucks. Cocktails are served. All ages. }} ===Sports=== *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway''' | lat=NA | long=NA | alt= | url=http://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/ | email= | address=4790 W 16th St | directions= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway | image=Indianapolis Motor Speedway (15982572368) (cropped).jpg | wikidata=Q172732 | content=It is Indy's pride and joy sporting landmark. Several motor races take place here, most notably the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400 and Indycar Grand Prix. Check out the museum, or a race depending on your visit. Ticket prices aren't cheap to the main affairs, but just attending one of the many practices or qualifications during the racing season (May–Sep) is well worth the experience. A must-see when visiting Indy, for race lovers or not. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Pacers'''| alt= | url=http://www.nba.com/pacers/ | address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Pacers | wikidata=Q170329 | content=NBA member, the Pacers can be seen live at their home court November–April. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Fever'''| alt= | url=https://fever.wnba.com |address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Fever | wikidata=Q1631017 | content=A member of the WNBA, the Fever plays from June–September, and tickets were quite a bit cheaper than their NBA counterparts before the 2024 arrival of college basketball icon Caitlin Clark. In Clark's first season, the Fever set new WNBA single-season records for average and total attendance, and even outdrew the Pacers. The team, which shares ownership with the Pacers, also plays in Gainbridge Fieldhouse. }} [[File:LucasOil.JPG|thumb|right|Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Colts]] *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Colts'''| alt= | url=http://www.colts.com/ | address=500 S Capitol Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Colts | wikidata=Q193753 | content=[[American Football|The NFL's]] Indianapolis Colts football season runs from August–January. The Colts play home games at Lucas Oil Stadium, a retractable-roof stadium that opened in 2008, which hosts many other sporting events, competitions, and concert events throughout the year. }} *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Indians'''| alt= | url=http://www.milb.com/indianapolis | address=501 W Maryland St | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price=$11–30 | wikipedia=Indianapolis Indians | image=Victory Field.jpg | wikidata=Q2748815 | content=The AAA minor league affiliate for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Their home stadium, Victory Field, has been deemed the best minor league baseball stadium in the country. Pack a picnic and sit in the outfield next to the famous teepee during the game (and catch a few balls if you're lucky) or get a seat in the stands. }} ===Bars=== Bars close at 3AM; 12:30AM on Sundays. Alcohol can be bought in stores on Sundays from Noon to 8 PM. Age requirements vary and are listed below. *{{see | name='''Alley Cat'''| alt= | url= | address=6267 Carrollton Ave | lat=39.86944 | long=-86.14459 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A dive bar in Broad Ripple, down an alley. No windows, smoke-ridden, and open at 7AM for breakfast till 3AM for dinner. A great jukebox, legendary bar staff, numerous pool tables, and the hardest drinks in town. Sometimes bands play too. A place you know will never change. Vegetarian friendly. 21+ }} [[File:Mass Ave.jpg|alt=A large painting of Vonnegut on the side of a building|thumb|Hometown hero Kurt Vonnegut is honored by a large painting on Mass Ave. blocks from the Rathskeller designed by his family.]] *{{see | name='''Kellerbar at the Rathskeller'''| alt= | url=http://www.rathskeller.com/ | address=401 E Michigan St | lat=39.77377 | long=-86.15031 | directions= | price= | content=Located inside the Rathskeller German restaurant, this is a place to drink beers from around the world and sop it all up with German food. During the warm months, this is one of the busiest bars in town. Get there early to enjoy a quieter beer or two; the bar opens up in the afternoon and you can enjoy their in-house brew (the Dunkel is particularly good) outside in the Biergarten or inside in the cozy oak bar that emulates a German castle. Later in the evening on the weekends, cover bands rock out in the garden and drunk college students go wild. }} *{{see | name='''Metro'''| alt= | url=http://www.metro-indy.com | address=707 Massachusetts Ave | lat=39.77649 | long=-86.14661 | directions= | price= | content=A laid back, casual environment with a pub downstairs and a modern pool hall upstairs. Their karaoke is legendary—featuring people who really can sing. Upstairs they also feature a sex/bdsm shop for kinky goods. Speaking of kink, food is served. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''The Vogue'''| alt= | url=http://www.thevogue.com/ | address=6259 N College Ave | lat=39.86922 | long=-86.14586 | directions= | price= | content=A movie theater built in the 1930s, in the 1970s it opened up as a music venue and nightclub. Now, it's the place for college kids to get wasted on the weekends and dance to top 40 and retro tunes. You'll also find great live music and past acts include Cheap Trick, Johnny Cash, David Byrne, The White Stripes, Common, Sean Paul, The Faint, VHS Or Beta, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams III, The Black Keys and more. Cover varies. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''Slippery Noodle Inn'''| alt= | url=http://www.slipperynoodle.com/ | address=372 S Meridian St | lat=39.76164 | long=-86.15883 | directions= | price= | content=The oldest bar in Indiana since 1850. It used to be a brothel, and it's now the best blues bar in the city. Steaks, homemade soup, baked potatoes, sandwiches and subs are the starts of the menu with a classic bar menu to boot. Beer, champagne, wine, and of course—hard liquor is poured with pride and the blues is local and national/international acts. There are still bullet holes in the wall from brawls in the 1800s. Dis is it. 21+ }} ===Other Food and Drink=== *{{eat | name='''Yats'''| alt= | url=http://www.yatscajuncreole.com/ | address=5650 W 86th St | lat=39.91252 | long=-86.26147 | price= | content=Indy's top restaurant for Cajun food. Sharing four locations, owned by a New Orleans native transplant, you'll feel like you're in the Crescent City. Large quantities of limited meals are offered up each day—and each is so tasty you'll be content. Pig out on great Cajun eats in a fun artsy environment. Vegan food available too. Hipsters and punks serve up your meals and sodas are refillable and mere $1. A great deal for a lot of enjoyable food. The chili cheese crawfish etouffe is their signature dish, but the jambalaya is also outstanding. Vegan friendly. }} *{{eat | name='''Sabor Venezolano'''| alt= | url=https://saborvenezolanorestaurantbarin.com/ | address=4930 Lafayette Rd Ste E | lat=39.84355 | long=-86.25452 | directions= | price= | content=Casual venue offering traditional Venezuelan eats, including a delicious cachapa. }} *{{eat | name='''Yummy Bowl'''| alt= | url=https://www.yummybowlindianapolis.com/ | address=3451 W 86th St | lat=39.91134335840361 | long=-86.21812603800274 | directions= | price= | content=Home of local ''Chipotlé''-style Mongolian dishes. }} *{{eat | name='''Easley Winery'''| alt= | url=https://www.easleywinery.com/ | address=205 N College Ave | lat=39.769827 | long=-86.145158 | directions= | price= | lastedit=2016-03-03 | content=The oldest winery in downtown Indy. Free guided tours, wine tasting, and events. In warm months they feature after-work cocktails and live music. Check out the wine-shop featuring tons of wine and beer making goods. }} *{{eat | name='''Traders Point Creamery'''| alt= | url=http://www.traderspointcreamery.com | address=9101 Moore Rd | lat=39.91754 | long=-86.28764 | directions= | price= | content=Indy's only grass-fed USDA organic dairy. They are always open with their self-serve dairy-shop (with a bucket you pay and take your change from—honesty basis), and at 4PM you can watch the cows get milked au naturel. Creamy milk, amazing yogurt (voted #1 by the American Cheese Society in 2005), ice cream, eggs and cheeses are all for sale. On the weekends they feature a farmers market and organic cafe. You can walk the grounds petting cows and chasing chickens. Fun for the family and eco-friendly folk. }} ==Connect== ===Television=== *'''[https://www.wthr.com/ WTHR 13]''' NBC *'''[https://www.wfyi.org/ WFYI 20]''' PBS ===Newspapers=== *'''[http://www.indystar.com ''Indianapolis Star''].''' The city's daily and Sunday paper. Formerly locally owned, now published by national syndicate Gannett. {{isPartOf|Nine-County Region}} {{hasDocent|Koavf}} qtst7d5gr9jrg8r6gbbjbu9jqvc4vj0 5288984 5288981 2026-06-07T04:22:13Z MichaelGintz 2415262 5288984 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Indianapolisbanner-night.jpg|caption=The downtown canal at night|alt=A pathway next to the water with lights on either side}} '''Indianapolis''' is the capital of [[Indiana]] and also the state’s largest city. Efforts to beautify and modernize the city have brought Indianapolis into the 21st&nbsp;century as a world-class destination for everything from business meetings and trade conventions to backpackers making their way across the States. [[File:DT INDY 10-03-2010 JASSSMIT.JPG|alt=The Indianapolis skyline|thumb|Indianapolis began a project of downtown beautification in the 1990s—the skyline is seen here in 2010]] Indianapolis is widely hailed as the "Racing Capital of the World" because of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indy&nbsp;500 and Brickyard&nbsp;400 at the Brickyard, and as the "Amateur Sports Capital of America" for hosting the NCAA Hall of Champions. The city has several attractions outside of sports, including museums, a large zoo, over 100 ethnic restaurants, several arts and historic districts, and a revitalized downtown. Although Indy has been mocked with the epithet "India-noplace", visitors will encounter a mix of a large metropolitan city and a simple [[Midwest]]ern community. You will find beautiful architecture, monuments, and pristine cornfields in the Circle City. ==Understand== [[File:Indianapolis-indiana-from-above.jpg|alt=An aerial photograph of downtown Indianapolis|thumb|Indianapolis' downtown is cut through by the non-navigable waters of the White River]] The population is roughly 882,000 (2022), making it the 16th largest city in the United States, and the metro area has about 2&nbsp;million (#34). When Indianapolis was founded, it was expected to be a "Great Inland Port", but the White River turned out to be non-navigable most of the year. The pay-off is that this desire for a port left the city with a gorgeous canal district, though the canal itself is only useful for recreational kayaks and paddleboats. Today, Indianapolis is known as the "Crossroads of America" due to its centrality in America's Interstate Highway System. In general, travel in and through Indianapolis is safe, clean, and logical. Visitors can always find something to do without becoming overwhelmed at a sprawling metropolis. In a few minutes, you can go from a sleepy and peaceful cornfield to a vibrant downtown. City planning is intelligible to outsiders with a grid system broken up by a few major diagonal streets, a large beltway loop (I-465), and a general lack of gridlock and traffic. ==Get in== ===By train=== * {{see | name='''Indianapolis Union Station'''| alt= | url=https://www.amtrak.com/content/amtrak/en-us/stations/ind.html | address=350 South Illinois Street | lat=39.7625 | long=-86.1602 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A historic, and underused, grand station that has the distinction of being the first Union station. Most of the building has now been converted to other uses, including a hotel. Trains depart from southern end of the station, there is a small waiting room as well as ticket offices. }} **{{go|name='''Amtrak'''|alt=|url=https://www.amtrak.com/content/amtrak/en-us/stations/ind.html|address=350 South Illinois Street|lat=NA|long=NA|directions=|price=|content=Operates trains throughout the [[United States of America]].}} Route stopping in Indianapolis: *** '''[https://www.amtrak.com/cardinal-train Cardinal]''' operating three trips weekly between [[Chicago]] and [[New York City]]. ==Get around== [[File:Indianapolis-downtown-gintz.png|thumb|upright=1.8|Downtown Indianapolis]] {{Mapframe|39.76833|-86.15806|zoom=10|name=Indianapolis and Marion County. There are several "included cities" within this area that retain some independence, but for purposes of travel the only noticeable difference might be speed limits. Zoom in thrice to get a sense of the navigable portion of downtown.}} Outside of the walkable Downtown and some Cultural Districts, you'll need a vehicle to navigate the urban sprawl. The public bus system is fairly clean and efficient but routes are sometimes complex, and substantial portions of the metro area are inaccessible. Outside of peak hours, waits can be prohibitively long. Bike lanes alongside major roads have been constructed in the early 2010s, so cyclists will be sharing the road. ===By bike=== The [https://indyculturaltrail.org/ Indianapolis Cultural Trail] was built through several years in the early 21st century and takes riders through downtown providing signs with Indianapolis history; public art dots many stops and you will be guided past several restaurants and local businesses. [https://www.pacersbikeshare.org/ Indiana Pacers Bikeshare] provides free bike-sharing rides for up to 30 minutes at a time for all Marion County residents. For non-residents, ordinary bikes are $2 per ride + $0.20 per minute, and e-bikes are $5 + $0.25 per minute. With a bike you can easily navigate the area in and around downtown Indianapolis, including the following neighborhoods of note: [[File:Fountain Square Theatre in Indianapolis.jpg|alt=|thumb|The Fountain Square district is built around the historic Fountain Square Theatre. You can now get barbeque and go duckpin bowling in the structure.]] *{{marker|type=buy|name='''Mass Ave'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A hop skip and a jump from the Circle, Mass Ave has gone through an amazing rebirth to become one of the coolest shopping areas in town full of local shops. *{{marker|type=buy|name='''[http://www.fountainsquareindy.com/ Fountain Square]'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A historical area about a mile from downtown Indy, to the Southeast. Mainly comprising of antique, thrift and art shops. ==Enjoy== ===Landmarks=== [[File:Downtown Indianapolis panorama, 2015.jpg|alt=|thumb|The sun rising over downtown]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Capitol'''| alt= | url=https://www.in.gov/idoa/statehouse/home/ | address=200 W Washington St | lat=39.7689 | long=-86.1625 | directions=just west of Monument Circle | price=Free. Vehicles can be parked in nearby garages or at metered spots. Automobiles that violate the metered time policy risk receiving a ticket and having their automobiles towed | wikipedia=Indiana Statehouse | image=Capitol del Estado de Indiana, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 04.jpg | wikidata=Q1661319 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Completed in 1888, this is the hub for Indiana's state government, housing the Governor's office, the state legislature (State Senate and Indiana General Assembly) and the State Supreme Court. The first state capital was in the [[Southern Indiana]] town of [[Corydon]], and in 1825 it was moved to Indianapolis. Featuring Italian Renaissance, Greek, and Corinthian design, the building is made from primarily of Indiana limestone. Look up while in the Rotunda to see the amazing German stained glass window, take a guided or personal tour, or observe the government at work. }} *{{see | name='''Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument'''| alt= | url=https://www.in.gov/iwm/soldiers-and-sailors-monument/ | address=1 Monument Cir | lat=39.7687 | long=-86.1579 | directions=The center of the city | price=Fees for elevator: adults $3.00, elderly (65 and over): free, youngsters (12 and under): no charge. Free for US military personnel and veterans. There is no fee to walk the steps. During business hours, elevator tickets are available for purchase at the Monument Gift Shop | wikipedia=Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument (Indianapolis) | image=Monument Circle, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.jpg | wikidata=Q1748884 | lastedit=2024-10-4 | content=This is the well-known monument in the center of the city. It is only fifteen feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty, having been built in 1902. The monument's sculpted depictions of gory Civil War fights and emancipated slaves are powerful. With Miss Liberty facing south, she defends the north from the confederate. The Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War museum is located in the basement, and visitors can ride the tower to the top for a view of the city. The grounds on the Monument are a wonderful representation of the city itself; they combine the calm of quietly roaring water and verdant grass with the energy of Downtown. It's also a great place to people watch. Additionally, there's a tiny gift shop. William Henry Harrison, the first Governor of the Indiana Territory and the United States President for a single month, is depicted on a statue at the base. The south steps are closed for renovation until November 2025, costing $10 million. }} *{{see | name='''Indiana War Memorial & Museum'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/ | address=55 E Michigan St | lat=39.7735 | long=-86.157 | directions=Slightly north, Downtown | price=Admission to the museum is free | wikidata=Q2439742 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=This pillared structure has a war museum, an elaborate auditorium, and a shrine honoring World War I troops who lost their lives. }} *{{see | name='''Scottish Rite Cathedral'''| alt= | url=https://aasr-indy.org/ | address=650 N Meridian St | lat=39.7762 | long=-86.1585 | directions=slightly north, Downtown | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish Rite Cathedral (Indianapolis) | image=Catedral de tradición escocesa, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 02.jpg | wikidata=Q7437949 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=It is the largest Scottish Rite cathedral in the world and a masterpiece of architecture. Take a tour, investigate the enormous pipe organ, the floating dance floor, the hand-crafted art glass windows, discover the mystery surrounding Freemasonry, and stop by the cafe for a bite to eat. }} *{{see | name='''The American Legion National Headquarters'''| alt= | url=https://www.legion.org/ | address=700 N Pennsylvania St | lat=39.777167 | long=-86.155738 | directions=northside of downtown | price=Free or paid parking | wikidata=Q468865 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Situated in the heart of downtown Indy with a beautiful mall that reminds one of D.C. Check out the museum that features hundreds of World War I & II posters and artifacts, a diorama of [[w:Jessica Lynch|Jessica Lynch]]'s rescue, explore the grounds and learn about the Legion's history. }} *{{see | name='''Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/explore/medal-of-honor-memorial/ | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.7703 | long=-86.169 | directions=westside of Downtown | price=Free | wikidata=Q6805056 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Monument that is part of White River State Park that pays tribute to over 3,000 Medal of Honor recipients. Ranges from Civil War through modern day clashes. It is made up of 27 curved glass walls, each {{ft|7–10}} high, and etched with the names. It's quite breathtaking—especially at night. }} * {{see | name='''Indiana 9/11 Memorial'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/explore/indiana-9-11-memorial/ | address=421 W Ohio St | lat=39.7704 | long=-86.1657 | directions= | price=Free | wikipedia=Indiana 9/11 Memorial | image=Project 9-11 Indianapolis.jpg | wikidata=Q7248980 | lastedit=2024-01-16 | content= }} ===Museums=== [[File:Indiana War Memorial at night.jpg|alt=|thumb|300px|The colossal Indiana War Memorial]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Museum'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianamuseum.org/ | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.769 | long=-86.1693 | directions=Westside of Downtown | price=Adult $19, senior (60+) $17, youth $13, child under 3 free | wikipedia=Indiana State Museum | wikidata=Q6023430 | lastedit=2024-09-20 | content=One of the most exquisite residences in the nation is the new state museum. Discover Indiana's history, from dinosaurs and fossil discoveries to the American Civil War, World War II, and the present. Discover a hall honoring well-known Hoosiers, take advantage of the IMAX theater and special events, and stroll about White River State Park's grounds to see the sculpture garden honoring Indiana's counties. A must-watch. The little gift shop offers plush toys, gourmet beverages, unusual candies, and trinkets with Indiana themes. With its seasonal menus and freshly made soups, salads, and sandwiches, the Farmers Market Café offers a menu that pays homage to Indiana's past as a supplier of local, fresh produce. The famed chicken velvet soup is served at the historic L.S. Ayres Tea Room. }} *{{see | name='''James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home & Visitor Center'''| alt= | url=https://rileymuseumhome.org/ | address=528 Lockerbie St | lat=39.773 | long=-86.1475 | directions=eastside of Downtown | price=Adult $10, student #1, children 6 and under free | wikidata=Q6145403 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=See the house where the renowned writer and poet spent the latter part of his life. "The Children's Poet" is how Riley is recognized. One of the best maintained Victorian homes in the nation, the house has been featured in ''Architectural Digest''. The house has never undergone renovations; every piece of furniture, up to the carpet, is original and dates back to 1916. See his possessions, collection of antiques, and background by taking a tour. }} *{{see | name='''Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site'''| alt= | url=https://bhpsite.org/ | address=1230 N Delaware St | lat=39.784 | long=-86.1543 | directions=Northside of Downtown | price=Adult $16, veteran $15, senior $15, college student $11, child $11, pre-school free | wikidata=Q4888783 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=The only Indianan to become U.S. president to date, holding office for one term (1889–1893). See this hero of the Civil War's stunning 1875 home, constructed in the Italianate Victorian style. It has three stories and is crammed with personal items, artwork, political mementos, and antiques. There is a First Ladies display in the carriage house at the back. They host entertaining events all year long, many of which feature outstanding reenactments of historical individuals from Indiana. A naturalization ceremony, tours of Victorian murder mysteries, and the always entertaining croquet competition are all held there. }} *{{see | name='''Newfields'''| alt=Indianapolis Museum of Art | url=https://discovernewfields.org | address=4000 Michigan Rd | lat=39.8259 | long=-86.1855 | directions=10&nbsp;minutes north of Downtown | price=Adult $20, child 5 & under free, youth 6-17 $13, Access Pass $2 (certain areas of the IMA campus are free, including the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres, the IMA Café, Museum Store, and Five Brushstrokes) | wikipedia=Indianapolis Museum of Art | image=Indy-Art-Museum-Szmurlo.jpg | wikidata=Q1117704 | content=Reopened following a multi-million dollar renovation it's one of the most beautiful buildings in the country for fine art. Founded in 1883, this is one of the oldest art museums in the country, boasting over 50,000 pieces of art and an amazing public art library. Exhibits include Contemporary Art, European Art, Asian Art, African Art, Textile Art, and more. Rotating and traveling exhibits are abundant. Experience hands-on exhibits where you can create your own art, walk the amazing grounds exploring the sculptures, gardens, and homes, shop at the museum store and eat and drink at the IMA Cafe and Wolfgang Puck's namesake restaurant—this is the city he got his start in. On Thursdays and Fridays 5–9PM, the museum has a special "happy hour" for hip and artsy socialites at Puck's featuring cocktails and hors d'oeurves. Also on the grounds are the Oldfields–Lilly House & Gardens, the former estate of the Lillys. They are located on {{convert|26|acre|ha}} grounds with a 22-room mansion, gardens, and museum. }} * {{see | name='''Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library'''| alt= | url=https://www.vonnegutlibrary.org/ | address=543 Indiana Avenue | lat=39.7725 | long=-86.163333 | directions= | price=Adults $12, seniors/educators/military $10, students $8. Free on first M of each month | wikidata=Q6447107 | lastedit=2024-10-04 | content=A museum dedicated to literary and cultural contributions of author and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut. }} *{{see | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum'''| alt= | url=http://www.indyracingmuseum.org/ | address=4790 W 16th St | lat=39.7902 | long=-86.2306 | directions=Speedway, Westside | price=$10 adult, $5 child, 5 and under free | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum | image=IMS HOF Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q6023901 | content=The IMA is the home of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, the Indianapolis 500. On the IMS grounds you will find the Museum which houses the world's largest collection of racing, classic, and antique cars. Check out 30 of the Indy 500 winner's cars, a 20-minute film about the history of the race, a souvenir shop and cafe. If you would like to see more of the track facilities, you also can pay a few bucks to ride in a bus around the actual race track (at about 40&nbsp;miles or 65&nbsp;km an hour). Or, for the more adventurous souls, you can try the Indy Racing Experience Driving Program where you can ride in a 2-seater Indy Car and experience speeds around the track up to 180&nbsp;miles or 300&nbsp;km an hour. }} [[File:Indiana State House 2.jpg|thumb|250px|The Indiana State House]] ===Festivals and events=== [[File:Indianapolis mini-marathon at the Motor Speedway, 2018.jpg|alt=A row of runners|thumb|Runners in the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon reaching the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2018. This is one of several preludes to the Indy 500.]] *''May'', {{listing | name='''The Indianapolis 500'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/events/indy500 | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=One of the largest sporting events in the world. The westside of the city and Speedway gets swamped and if you like big crowds, loud cars, and tailgating, this is for you. One of several events leading up to it is the largest mini-marathon in the world, so if you're extra ambitious, come early and run for {{mi|13.1}} (or a more modest but still impressive {{km|5}}). }} *''Early-Mid August'', {{listing | name='''Indiana State Fair'''| alt= | url=http://www.in.gov/statefair/ | address=State Fairgrounds | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The biggest summer event in the state. A trip to Indiana isn't complete without a trip to the fair. Animals, crafts, art, rides, dancing, education, environmentalism, Hoosier Pride and food. They also have live music and concerts. Prairie Home Companion comes every other year. Although many locals usually complain about the food being largely overpriced. }} *''Early August'', {{listing | name='''Gen Con'''| alt= | url=http://www.gencon.com | address=Indiana Convention Center, 100 South Capitol Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The "best four days of gaming" in the world comes to Indianapolis every year. Thousands congregate from all over the world to play games of all types, meet sci-fi and fantasy film stars, purchase gamer goods and hang with others. The freakiest time of the year in downtown Indy. }} ===Parks=== [[File:C4241-Indianapolis-Canal.jpg|alt=|thumb|Downtown's Canal District reserves a plot of land for Military Park]] '''[http://www.indy.gov/eGov/City/dpr/Pages/IndyParksHome.aspx Indy Parks]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' features information and links regarding all Indianapolis public parks. Below is an example of some of the city's finest, which attract visitors and locals alike. *{{see | name='''Eagle Creek Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/133 | address=7840 W 56th St | lat=39.854505 | long=-86.301777 | directions=Accessible from I-465 | price= | lastedit=2025-06-01 | content=On the west side of Indy, this huge park boasts many amenities, including a nature center, fitness course, fishing areas, and bird sanctuary. Fill your day with sailing, bird watching, fishing, rowing, hiking, swimming, ziplining. Only 10&nbsp;minutes from downtown. Admission: $7/car for non-Marion county Residents. }} *{{see | name='''Garfield Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/521 | address=2345 Pagoda Dr | lat=39.734213 | long=-86.1519037 | directions= | price= | content=Oldest park in Indianapolis, established in 1881. Home of the Garfield Park Conservatory, which houses {{convert|10,000|ft2|m2}} of plants from all over the world, and the Sunken Gardens, built in 1916, which consist of {{convert|3|acres|ha}} of European classical formal gardens, which change based on the season. Other features include an arts center, MacAllister Center for the Performing Arts, swimming pool and aquatic center, picnic shelters, pagoda, tennis courts, softball diamond, numerous trails, horse shoe courts, playgrounds, sledding hill and countless other park activities. Free for most activities. Free parking. }} [[File:Skiles Test Nature Park.jpg|alt=Trees turning shade in autumn|thumb|Indianapolis has state parks, conservancies, small reserved areas downtown, and the natural resource area of Skiles Test Nature Park (pictured here in autumn).]] *{{see | name='''Holliday Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/10 | address=6363 Spring Mill Rd | lat=39.871071 | long=-86.1634226 | directions= | price= | content=One of the oldest and coolest parks in town. Planted right on the White River with swamps, ponds, wildflower gardens, birdwatching sanctuaries, a renovated nature center, sculpture garden, and countless wildlife and plant life. In the warm months parents take their kids to play on the best playground in the city, and locals picnic, lay out, read and host family gatherings at the extensive parkland. A great place to wade and collect rocks too. 95 acres of trails and woodland, a must see. }} *{{see | name='''White River State Park'''| alt= | url=https://www.whiteriverstatepark.org/ | address=801 W Washington St | lat=39.770778 | long=-86.167145 | directions= | price=Free and paid parking | content=Home to the Indianapolis Zoo, White River Gardens, Victory Field, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art, Indiana State Museum, IMAX Theater, and NCAA Hall of Champions. It also has The Lawn near the river, which is host to concerts during each summer. Central Canal is also located within the park. Park passes are available for purchase, entrance to all 7 of the main attractions is included in the pass. }} ===Art=== *{{see | name='''Indiana Repertory Theatre'''| alt= | url=https://www.irtlive.com/ | address=140 W Washington St | lat=39.7675 | long=-86.1611 | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Repertory Theatre | wikidata=Q6023385 | content=Some of the nation's finest actors perform in this architectural masterpiece of a theater. Two theaters provide different types of performances, and their famous version of ''A Christmas Carol'' is a classic. Be sure to check out their Shakespeare performances. Dress up in your Sunday best and see a matinee to save some bucks. Cocktails are served. All ages. }} ===Sports=== *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway''' | lat=NA | long=NA | alt= | url=http://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/ | email= | address=4790 W 16th St | directions= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway | image=Indianapolis Motor Speedway (15982572368) (cropped).jpg | wikidata=Q172732 | content=It is Indy's pride and joy sporting landmark. Several motor races take place here, most notably the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400 and Indycar Grand Prix. Check out the museum, or a race depending on your visit. Ticket prices aren't cheap to the main affairs, but just attending one of the many practices or qualifications during the racing season (May–Sep) is well worth the experience. A must-see when visiting Indy, for race lovers or not. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Pacers'''| alt= | url=http://www.nba.com/pacers/ | address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Pacers | wikidata=Q170329 | content=NBA member, the Pacers can be seen live at their home court November–April. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Fever'''| alt= | url=https://fever.wnba.com |address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Fever | wikidata=Q1631017 | content=A member of the WNBA, the Fever plays from June–September, and tickets were quite a bit cheaper than their NBA counterparts before the 2024 arrival of college basketball icon Caitlin Clark. In Clark's first season, the Fever set new WNBA single-season records for average and total attendance, and even outdrew the Pacers. The team, which shares ownership with the Pacers, also plays in Gainbridge Fieldhouse. }} [[File:LucasOil.JPG|thumb|right|Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Colts]] *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Colts'''| alt= | url=http://www.colts.com/ | address=500 S Capitol Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Colts | wikidata=Q193753 | content=[[American Football|The NFL's]] Indianapolis Colts football season runs from August–January. The Colts play home games at Lucas Oil Stadium, a retractable-roof stadium that opened in 2008, which hosts many other sporting events, competitions, and concert events throughout the year. }} *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Indians'''| alt= | url=http://www.milb.com/indianapolis | address=501 W Maryland St | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price=$11–30 | wikipedia=Indianapolis Indians | image=Victory Field.jpg | wikidata=Q2748815 | content=The AAA minor league affiliate for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Their home stadium, Victory Field, has been deemed the best minor league baseball stadium in the country. Pack a picnic and sit in the outfield next to the famous teepee during the game (and catch a few balls if you're lucky) or get a seat in the stands. }} ===Bars=== Bars close at 3AM; 12:30AM on Sundays. Alcohol can be bought in stores on Sundays from Noon to 8 PM. Age requirements vary and are listed below. *{{see | name='''Alley Cat'''| alt= | url= | address=6267 Carrollton Ave | lat=39.86944 | long=-86.14459 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A dive bar in Broad Ripple, down an alley. No windows, smoke-ridden, and open at 7AM for breakfast till 3AM for dinner. A great jukebox, legendary bar staff, numerous pool tables, and the hardest drinks in town. Sometimes bands play too. A place you know will never change. Vegetarian friendly. 21+ }} [[File:Mass Ave.jpg|alt=A large painting of Vonnegut on the side of a building|thumb|Hometown hero Kurt Vonnegut is honored by a large painting on Mass Ave. blocks from the Rathskeller designed by his family.]] *{{see | name='''Kellerbar at the Rathskeller'''| alt= | url=http://www.rathskeller.com/ | address=401 E Michigan St | lat=39.77377 | long=-86.15031 | directions= | price= | content=Located inside the Rathskeller German restaurant, this is a place to drink beers from around the world and sop it all up with German food. During the warm months, this is one of the busiest bars in town. Get there early to enjoy a quieter beer or two; the bar opens up in the afternoon and you can enjoy their in-house brew (the Dunkel is particularly good) outside in the Biergarten or inside in the cozy oak bar that emulates a German castle. Later in the evening on the weekends, cover bands rock out in the garden and drunk college students go wild. }} *{{see | name='''Metro'''| alt= | url=http://www.metro-indy.com | address=707 Massachusetts Ave | lat=39.77649 | long=-86.14661 | directions= | price= | content=A laid back, casual environment with a pub downstairs and a modern pool hall upstairs. Their karaoke is legendary—featuring people who really can sing. Upstairs they also feature a sex/bdsm shop for kinky goods. Speaking of kink, food is served. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''The Vogue'''| alt= | url=http://www.thevogue.com/ | address=6259 N College Ave | lat=39.86922 | long=-86.14586 | directions= | price= | content=A movie theater built in the 1930s, in the 1970s it opened up as a music venue and nightclub. Now, it's the place for college kids to get wasted on the weekends and dance to top 40 and retro tunes. You'll also find great live music and past acts include Cheap Trick, Johnny Cash, David Byrne, The White Stripes, Common, Sean Paul, The Faint, VHS Or Beta, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams III, The Black Keys and more. Cover varies. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''Slippery Noodle Inn'''| alt= | url=http://www.slipperynoodle.com/ | address=372 S Meridian St | lat=39.76164 | long=-86.15883 | directions= | price= | content=The oldest bar in Indiana since 1850. It used to be a brothel, and it's now the best blues bar in the city. Steaks, homemade soup, baked potatoes, sandwiches and subs are the starts of the menu with a classic bar menu to boot. Beer, champagne, wine, and of course—hard liquor is poured with pride and the blues is local and national/international acts. There are still bullet holes in the wall from brawls in the 1800s. Dis is it. 21+ }} ===Other Food and Drink=== *{{eat | name='''Yats'''| alt= | url=http://www.yatscajuncreole.com/ | address=5650 W 86th St | lat=39.91252 | long=-86.26147 | price= | content=Indy's top restaurant for Cajun food. Sharing four locations, owned by a New Orleans native transplant, you'll feel like you're in the Crescent City. Large quantities of limited meals are offered up each day—and each is so tasty you'll be content. Pig out on great Cajun eats in a fun artsy environment. Vegan food available too. Hipsters and punks serve up your meals and sodas are refillable and mere $1. A great deal for a lot of enjoyable food. The chili cheese crawfish etouffe is their signature dish, but the jambalaya is also outstanding. Vegan friendly. }} *{{eat | name='''Sabor Venezolano'''| alt= | url=https://saborvenezolanorestaurantbarin.com/ | address=4930 Lafayette Rd Ste E | lat=39.84355 | long=-86.25452 | directions= | price= | content=Casual venue offering traditional Venezuelan eats, including a delicious cachapa. }} *{{eat | name='''Yummy Bowl'''| alt= | url=https://www.yummybowlindianapolis.com/ | address=3451 W 86th St | lat=39.91134335840361 | long=-86.21812603800274 | directions= | price= | content=Home of local ''Chipotlé''-style Mongolian dishes. }} *{{eat | name='''Easley Winery'''| alt= | url=https://www.easleywinery.com/ | address=205 N College Ave | lat=39.769827 | long=-86.145158 | directions= | price= | lastedit=2016-03-03 | content=The oldest winery in downtown Indy. Free guided tours, wine tasting, and events. In warm months they feature after-work cocktails and live music. Check out the wine-shop featuring tons of wine and beer making goods. }} *{{eat | name='''Traders Point Creamery'''| alt= | url=http://www.traderspointcreamery.com | address=9101 Moore Rd | lat=39.91754 | long=-86.28764 | directions= | price= | content=Indy's only grass-fed USDA organic dairy. They are always open with their self-serve dairy-shop (with a bucket you pay and take your change from—honesty basis), and at 4PM you can watch the cows get milked au naturel. Creamy milk, amazing yogurt (voted #1 by the American Cheese Society in 2005), ice cream, eggs and cheeses are all for sale. On the weekends they feature a farmers market and organic cafe. You can walk the grounds petting cows and chasing chickens. Fun for the family and eco-friendly folk. }} ==Connect== ===Television=== *'''[https://www.wthr.com/ WTHR 13]''' NBC *'''[https://www.wfyi.org/ WFYI 20]''' PBS ===Newspapers=== *'''[http://www.indystar.com ''Indianapolis Star''].''' The city's daily and Sunday paper. Formerly locally owned, now published by national syndicate Gannett. {{isPartOf|Nine-County Region}} {{hasDocent|Koavf}} 2c44fszq8kfclbx6oov22q3twztgdll 5288991 5288984 2026-06-07T04:42:45Z MichaelGintz 2415262 5288991 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Indianapolisbanner-night.jpg|caption=The downtown canal at night|alt=A pathway next to the water with lights on either side}} '''Indianapolis''' is the capital of [[Indiana]] and also the state’s largest city. Efforts to beautify and modernize the city have brought Indianapolis into the 21st&nbsp;century as a world-class destination for everything from business meetings and trade conventions to backpackers making their way across the States. [[File:DT INDY 10-03-2010 JASSSMIT.JPG|alt=The Indianapolis skyline|thumb|Indianapolis began a project of downtown beautification in the 1990s—the skyline is seen here in 2010]] Indianapolis is widely hailed as the "Racing Capital of the World" because of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indy&nbsp;500 and Brickyard&nbsp;400 at the Brickyard, and as the "Amateur Sports Capital of America" for hosting the NCAA Hall of Champions. The city has several attractions outside of sports, including museums, a large zoo, over 100 ethnic restaurants, several arts and historic districts, and a revitalized downtown. Although Indy has been mocked with the epithet "India-noplace", visitors will encounter a mix of a large metropolitan city and a simple [[Midwest]]ern community. You will find beautiful architecture, monuments, and pristine cornfields in the Circle City. ==Understand== [[File:Indianapolis-indiana-from-above.jpg|alt=An aerial photograph of downtown Indianapolis|thumb|Indianapolis' downtown is cut through by the non-navigable waters of the White River]] The population is roughly 882,000 (2022), making it the 16th largest city in the United States, and the metro area has about 2&nbsp;million (#34). When Indianapolis was founded, it was expected to be a "Great Inland Port", but the White River turned out to be non-navigable most of the year. The pay-off is that this desire for a port left the city with a gorgeous canal district, though the canal itself is only useful for recreational kayaks and paddleboats. Today, Indianapolis is known as the "Crossroads of America" due to its centrality in America's Interstate Highway System. In general, travel in and through Indianapolis is safe, clean, and logical. Visitors can always find something to do without becoming overwhelmed at a sprawling metropolis. In a few minutes, you can go from a sleepy and peaceful cornfield to a vibrant downtown. City planning is intelligible to outsiders with a grid system broken up by a few major diagonal streets, a large beltway loop (I-465), and a general lack of gridlock and traffic. ==Get in== ===By train=== * {{see | name='''Indianapolis Union Station'''| alt= | url=https://www.amtrak.com/content/amtrak/en-us/stations/ind.html | address=350 South Illinois Street | lat=39.7625 | long=-86.1602 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A historic, and underused, grand station that has the distinction of being the first Union station. Most of the building has now been converted to other uses, including a hotel. Trains depart from southern end of the station, there is a small waiting room as well as ticket offices. }} **{{go|name='''Amtrak'''|alt=|url=https://www.amtrak.com/content/amtrak/en-us/stations/ind.html|address=350 South Illinois Street|lat=NA|long=NA|directions=|price=|content=Operates trains throughout the [[United States of America]].}} Route stopping in Indianapolis: *** '''[https://www.amtrak.com/cardinal-train Cardinal]''' operating three trips weekly between [[Chicago]] and [[New York City]]. ==Get around== [[File:Indianapolis-downtown-gintz-2.png|thumb|upright=1.8|Downtown Indianapolis]] {{Mapframe|39.76833|-86.15806|zoom=10|name=Indianapolis and Marion County. There are several "included cities" within this area that retain some independence, but for purposes of travel the only noticeable difference might be speed limits. Zoom in thrice to get a sense of the navigable portion of downtown.}} Outside of the walkable Downtown and some Cultural Districts, you'll need a vehicle to navigate the urban sprawl. The public bus system is fairly clean and efficient but routes are sometimes complex, and substantial portions of the metro area are inaccessible. Outside of peak hours, waits can be prohibitively long. Bike lanes alongside major roads have been constructed in the early 2010s, so cyclists will be sharing the road. ===By bike=== The [https://indyculturaltrail.org/ Indianapolis Cultural Trail] was built through several years in the early 21st century and takes riders through downtown providing signs with Indianapolis history; public art dots many stops and you will be guided past several restaurants and local businesses. [https://www.pacersbikeshare.org/ Indiana Pacers Bikeshare] provides free bike-sharing rides for up to 30 minutes at a time for all Marion County residents. For non-residents, ordinary bikes are $2 per ride + $0.20 per minute, and e-bikes are $5 + $0.25 per minute. With a bike you can easily navigate the area in and around downtown Indianapolis, including the following neighborhoods of note: [[File:Fountain Square Theatre in Indianapolis.jpg|alt=|thumb|The Fountain Square district is built around the historic Fountain Square Theatre. You can now get barbeque and go duckpin bowling in the structure.]] *{{marker|type=buy|name='''Mass Ave'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A hop skip and a jump from the Circle, Mass Ave has gone through an amazing rebirth to become one of the coolest shopping areas in town full of local shops. *{{marker|type=buy|name='''[http://www.fountainsquareindy.com/ Fountain Square]'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A historical area about a mile from downtown Indy, to the Southeast. Mainly comprising of antique, thrift and art shops. ==Enjoy== ===Landmarks=== [[File:Downtown Indianapolis panorama, 2015.jpg|alt=|thumb|The sun rising over downtown]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Capitol'''| alt= | url=https://www.in.gov/idoa/statehouse/home/ | address=200 W Washington St | lat=39.7689 | long=-86.1625 | directions=just west of Monument Circle | price=Free. Vehicles can be parked in nearby garages or at metered spots. Automobiles that violate the metered time policy risk receiving a ticket and having their automobiles towed | wikipedia=Indiana Statehouse | image=Capitol del Estado de Indiana, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 04.jpg | wikidata=Q1661319 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Completed in 1888, this is the hub for Indiana's state government, housing the Governor's office, the state legislature (State Senate and Indiana General Assembly) and the State Supreme Court. The first state capital was in the [[Southern Indiana]] town of [[Corydon]], and in 1825 it was moved to Indianapolis. Featuring Italian Renaissance, Greek, and Corinthian design, the building is made from primarily of Indiana limestone. Look up while in the Rotunda to see the amazing German stained glass window, take a guided or personal tour, or observe the government at work. }} *{{see | name='''Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument'''| alt= | url=https://www.in.gov/iwm/soldiers-and-sailors-monument/ | address=1 Monument Cir | lat=39.7687 | long=-86.1579 | directions=The center of the city | price=Fees for elevator: adults $3.00, elderly (65 and over): free, youngsters (12 and under): no charge. Free for US military personnel and veterans. There is no fee to walk the steps. During business hours, elevator tickets are available for purchase at the Monument Gift Shop | wikipedia=Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument (Indianapolis) | image=Monument Circle, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.jpg | wikidata=Q1748884 | lastedit=2024-10-4 | content=This is the well-known monument in the center of the city. It is only fifteen feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty, having been built in 1902. The monument's sculpted depictions of gory Civil War fights and emancipated slaves are powerful. With Miss Liberty facing south, she defends the north from the confederate. The Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War museum is located in the basement, and visitors can ride the tower to the top for a view of the city. The grounds on the Monument are a wonderful representation of the city itself; they combine the calm of quietly roaring water and verdant grass with the energy of Downtown. It's also a great place to people watch. Additionally, there's a tiny gift shop. William Henry Harrison, the first Governor of the Indiana Territory and the United States President for a single month, is depicted on a statue at the base. The south steps are closed for renovation until November 2025, costing $10 million. }} *{{see | name='''Indiana War Memorial & Museum'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/ | address=55 E Michigan St | lat=39.7735 | long=-86.157 | directions=Slightly north, Downtown | price=Admission to the museum is free | wikidata=Q2439742 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=This pillared structure has a war museum, an elaborate auditorium, and a shrine honoring World War I troops who lost their lives. }} *{{see | name='''Scottish Rite Cathedral'''| alt= | url=https://aasr-indy.org/ | address=650 N Meridian St | lat=39.7762 | long=-86.1585 | directions=slightly north, Downtown | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish Rite Cathedral (Indianapolis) | image=Catedral de tradición escocesa, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 02.jpg | wikidata=Q7437949 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=It is the largest Scottish Rite cathedral in the world and a masterpiece of architecture. Take a tour, investigate the enormous pipe organ, the floating dance floor, the hand-crafted art glass windows, discover the mystery surrounding Freemasonry, and stop by the cafe for a bite to eat. }} *{{see | name='''The American Legion National Headquarters'''| alt= | url=https://www.legion.org/ | address=700 N Pennsylvania St | lat=39.777167 | long=-86.155738 | directions=northside of downtown | price=Free or paid parking | wikidata=Q468865 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Situated in the heart of downtown Indy with a beautiful mall that reminds one of D.C. Check out the museum that features hundreds of World War I & II posters and artifacts, a diorama of [[w:Jessica Lynch|Jessica Lynch]]'s rescue, explore the grounds and learn about the Legion's history. }} *{{see | name='''Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/explore/medal-of-honor-memorial/ | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.7703 | long=-86.169 | directions=westside of Downtown | price=Free | wikidata=Q6805056 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Monument that is part of White River State Park that pays tribute to over 3,000 Medal of Honor recipients. Ranges from Civil War through modern day clashes. It is made up of 27 curved glass walls, each {{ft|7–10}} high, and etched with the names. It's quite breathtaking—especially at night. }} * {{see | name='''Indiana 9/11 Memorial'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianawarmemorials.org/explore/indiana-9-11-memorial/ | address=421 W Ohio St | lat=39.7704 | long=-86.1657 | directions= | price=Free | wikipedia=Indiana 9/11 Memorial | image=Project 9-11 Indianapolis.jpg | wikidata=Q7248980 | lastedit=2024-01-16 | content= }} ===Museums=== [[File:Indiana War Memorial at night.jpg|alt=|thumb|300px|The colossal Indiana War Memorial]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Museum'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianamuseum.org/ | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.769 | long=-86.1693 | directions=Westside of Downtown | price=Adult $19, senior (60+) $17, youth $13, child under 3 free | wikipedia=Indiana State Museum | wikidata=Q6023430 | lastedit=2024-09-20 | content=One of the most exquisite residences in the nation is the new state museum. Discover Indiana's history, from dinosaurs and fossil discoveries to the American Civil War, World War II, and the present. Discover a hall honoring well-known Hoosiers, take advantage of the IMAX theater and special events, and stroll about White River State Park's grounds to see the sculpture garden honoring Indiana's counties. A must-watch. The little gift shop offers plush toys, gourmet beverages, unusual candies, and trinkets with Indiana themes. With its seasonal menus and freshly made soups, salads, and sandwiches, the Farmers Market Café offers a menu that pays homage to Indiana's past as a supplier of local, fresh produce. The famed chicken velvet soup is served at the historic L.S. Ayres Tea Room. }} *{{see | name='''James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home & Visitor Center'''| alt= | url=https://rileymuseumhome.org/ | address=528 Lockerbie St | lat=39.773 | long=-86.1475 | directions=eastside of Downtown | price=Adult $10, student #1, children 6 and under free | wikidata=Q6145403 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=See the house where the renowned writer and poet spent the latter part of his life. "The Children's Poet" is how Riley is recognized. One of the best maintained Victorian homes in the nation, the house has been featured in ''Architectural Digest''. The house has never undergone renovations; every piece of furniture, up to the carpet, is original and dates back to 1916. See his possessions, collection of antiques, and background by taking a tour. }} *{{see | name='''Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site'''| alt= | url=https://bhpsite.org/ | address=1230 N Delaware St | lat=39.784 | long=-86.1543 | directions=Northside of Downtown | price=Adult $16, veteran $15, senior $15, college student $11, child $11, pre-school free | wikidata=Q4888783 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=The only Indianan to become U.S. president to date, holding office for one term (1889–1893). See this hero of the Civil War's stunning 1875 home, constructed in the Italianate Victorian style. It has three stories and is crammed with personal items, artwork, political mementos, and antiques. There is a First Ladies display in the carriage house at the back. They host entertaining events all year long, many of which feature outstanding reenactments of historical individuals from Indiana. A naturalization ceremony, tours of Victorian murder mysteries, and the always entertaining croquet competition are all held there. }} *{{see | name='''Newfields'''| alt=Indianapolis Museum of Art | url=https://discovernewfields.org | address=4000 Michigan Rd | lat=39.8259 | long=-86.1855 | directions=10&nbsp;minutes north of Downtown | price=Adult $20, child 5 & under free, youth 6-17 $13, Access Pass $2 (certain areas of the IMA campus are free, including the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres, the IMA Café, Museum Store, and Five Brushstrokes) | wikipedia=Indianapolis Museum of Art | image=Indy-Art-Museum-Szmurlo.jpg | wikidata=Q1117704 | content=Reopened following a multi-million dollar renovation it's one of the most beautiful buildings in the country for fine art. Founded in 1883, this is one of the oldest art museums in the country, boasting over 50,000 pieces of art and an amazing public art library. Exhibits include Contemporary Art, European Art, Asian Art, African Art, Textile Art, and more. Rotating and traveling exhibits are abundant. Experience hands-on exhibits where you can create your own art, walk the amazing grounds exploring the sculptures, gardens, and homes, shop at the museum store and eat and drink at the IMA Cafe and Wolfgang Puck's namesake restaurant—this is the city he got his start in. On Thursdays and Fridays 5–9PM, the museum has a special "happy hour" for hip and artsy socialites at Puck's featuring cocktails and hors d'oeurves. Also on the grounds are the Oldfields–Lilly House & Gardens, the former estate of the Lillys. They are located on {{convert|26|acre|ha}} grounds with a 22-room mansion, gardens, and museum. }} * {{see | name='''Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library'''| alt= | url=https://www.vonnegutlibrary.org/ | address=543 Indiana Avenue | lat=39.7725 | long=-86.163333 | directions= | price=Adults $12, seniors/educators/military $10, students $8. Free on first M of each month | wikidata=Q6447107 | lastedit=2024-10-04 | content=A museum dedicated to literary and cultural contributions of author and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut. }} *{{see | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum'''| alt= | url=http://www.indyracingmuseum.org/ | address=4790 W 16th St | lat=39.7902 | long=-86.2306 | directions=Speedway, Westside | price=$10 adult, $5 child, 5 and under free | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum | image=IMS HOF Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q6023901 | content=The IMA is the home of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, the Indianapolis 500. On the IMS grounds you will find the Museum which houses the world's largest collection of racing, classic, and antique cars. Check out 30 of the Indy 500 winner's cars, a 20-minute film about the history of the race, a souvenir shop and cafe. If you would like to see more of the track facilities, you also can pay a few bucks to ride in a bus around the actual race track (at about 40&nbsp;miles or 65&nbsp;km an hour). Or, for the more adventurous souls, you can try the Indy Racing Experience Driving Program where you can ride in a 2-seater Indy Car and experience speeds around the track up to 180&nbsp;miles or 300&nbsp;km an hour. }} [[File:Indiana State House 2.jpg|thumb|250px|The Indiana State House]] ===Festivals and events=== [[File:Indianapolis mini-marathon at the Motor Speedway, 2018.jpg|alt=A row of runners|thumb|Runners in the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon reaching the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2018. This is one of several preludes to the Indy 500.]] *''May'', {{listing | name='''The Indianapolis 500'''| alt= | url=https://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/events/indy500 | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=One of the largest sporting events in the world. The westside of the city and Speedway gets swamped and if you like big crowds, loud cars, and tailgating, this is for you. One of several events leading up to it is the largest mini-marathon in the world, so if you're extra ambitious, come early and run for {{mi|13.1}} (or a more modest but still impressive {{km|5}}). }} *''Early-Mid August'', {{listing | name='''Indiana State Fair'''| alt= | url=http://www.in.gov/statefair/ | address=State Fairgrounds | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The biggest summer event in the state. A trip to Indiana isn't complete without a trip to the fair. Animals, crafts, art, rides, dancing, education, environmentalism, Hoosier Pride and food. They also have live music and concerts. Prairie Home Companion comes every other year. Although many locals usually complain about the food being largely overpriced. }} *''Early August'', {{listing | name='''Gen Con'''| alt= | url=http://www.gencon.com | address=Indiana Convention Center, 100 South Capitol Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The "best four days of gaming" in the world comes to Indianapolis every year. Thousands congregate from all over the world to play games of all types, meet sci-fi and fantasy film stars, purchase gamer goods and hang with others. The freakiest time of the year in downtown Indy. }} ===Parks=== [[File:C4241-Indianapolis-Canal.jpg|alt=|thumb|Downtown's Canal District reserves a plot of land for Military Park]] '''[http://www.indy.gov/eGov/City/dpr/Pages/IndyParksHome.aspx Indy Parks]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' features information and links regarding all Indianapolis public parks. Below is an example of some of the city's finest, which attract visitors and locals alike. *{{see | name='''Eagle Creek Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/133 | address=7840 W 56th St | lat=39.854505 | long=-86.301777 | directions=Accessible from I-465 | price= | lastedit=2025-06-01 | content=On the west side of Indy, this huge park boasts many amenities, including a nature center, fitness course, fishing areas, and bird sanctuary. Fill your day with sailing, bird watching, fishing, rowing, hiking, swimming, ziplining. Only 10&nbsp;minutes from downtown. Admission: $7/car for non-Marion county Residents. }} *{{see | name='''Garfield Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/521 | address=2345 Pagoda Dr | lat=39.734213 | long=-86.1519037 | directions= | price= | content=Oldest park in Indianapolis, established in 1881. Home of the Garfield Park Conservatory, which houses {{convert|10,000|ft2|m2}} of plants from all over the world, and the Sunken Gardens, built in 1916, which consist of {{convert|3|acres|ha}} of European classical formal gardens, which change based on the season. Other features include an arts center, MacAllister Center for the Performing Arts, swimming pool and aquatic center, picnic shelters, pagoda, tennis courts, softball diamond, numerous trails, horse shoe courts, playgrounds, sledding hill and countless other park activities. Free for most activities. Free parking. }} [[File:Skiles Test Nature Park.jpg|alt=Trees turning shade in autumn|thumb|Indianapolis has state parks, conservancies, small reserved areas downtown, and the natural resource area of Skiles Test Nature Park (pictured here in autumn).]] *{{see | name='''Holliday Park'''| alt= | url=http://funfinder.indy.gov/#%21/../%23/details/10 | address=6363 Spring Mill Rd | lat=39.871071 | long=-86.1634226 | directions= | price= | content=One of the oldest and coolest parks in town. Planted right on the White River with swamps, ponds, wildflower gardens, birdwatching sanctuaries, a renovated nature center, sculpture garden, and countless wildlife and plant life. In the warm months parents take their kids to play on the best playground in the city, and locals picnic, lay out, read and host family gatherings at the extensive parkland. A great place to wade and collect rocks too. 95 acres of trails and woodland, a must see. }} *{{see | name='''White River State Park'''| alt= | url=https://www.whiteriverstatepark.org/ | address=801 W Washington St | lat=39.770778 | long=-86.167145 | directions= | price=Free and paid parking | content=Home to the Indianapolis Zoo, White River Gardens, Victory Field, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art, Indiana State Museum, IMAX Theater, and NCAA Hall of Champions. It also has The Lawn near the river, which is host to concerts during each summer. Central Canal is also located within the park. Park passes are available for purchase, entrance to all 7 of the main attractions is included in the pass. }} ===Art=== *{{see | name='''Indiana Repertory Theatre'''| alt= | url=https://www.irtlive.com/ | address=140 W Washington St | lat=39.7675 | long=-86.1611 | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Repertory Theatre | wikidata=Q6023385 | content=Some of the nation's finest actors perform in this architectural masterpiece of a theater. Two theaters provide different types of performances, and their famous version of ''A Christmas Carol'' is a classic. Be sure to check out their Shakespeare performances. Dress up in your Sunday best and see a matinee to save some bucks. Cocktails are served. All ages. }} ===Sports=== *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway''' | lat=NA | long=NA | alt= | url=http://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/ | email= | address=4790 W 16th St | directions= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway | image=Indianapolis Motor Speedway (15982572368) (cropped).jpg | wikidata=Q172732 | content=It is Indy's pride and joy sporting landmark. Several motor races take place here, most notably the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400 and Indycar Grand Prix. Check out the museum, or a race depending on your visit. Ticket prices aren't cheap to the main affairs, but just attending one of the many practices or qualifications during the racing season (May–Sep) is well worth the experience. A must-see when visiting Indy, for race lovers or not. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Pacers'''| alt= | url=http://www.nba.com/pacers/ | address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Pacers | wikidata=Q170329 | content=NBA member, the Pacers can be seen live at their home court November–April. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Fever'''| alt= | url=https://fever.wnba.com |address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Fever | wikidata=Q1631017 | content=A member of the WNBA, the Fever plays from June–September, and tickets were quite a bit cheaper than their NBA counterparts before the 2024 arrival of college basketball icon Caitlin Clark. In Clark's first season, the Fever set new WNBA single-season records for average and total attendance, and even outdrew the Pacers. The team, which shares ownership with the Pacers, also plays in Gainbridge Fieldhouse. }} [[File:LucasOil.JPG|thumb|right|Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Colts]] *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Colts'''| alt= | url=http://www.colts.com/ | address=500 S Capitol Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Colts | wikidata=Q193753 | content=[[American Football|The NFL's]] Indianapolis Colts football season runs from August–January. The Colts play home games at Lucas Oil Stadium, a retractable-roof stadium that opened in 2008, which hosts many other sporting events, competitions, and concert events throughout the year. }} *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Indians'''| alt= | url=http://www.milb.com/indianapolis | address=501 W Maryland St | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price=$11–30 | wikipedia=Indianapolis Indians | image=Victory Field.jpg | wikidata=Q2748815 | content=The AAA minor league affiliate for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Their home stadium, Victory Field, has been deemed the best minor league baseball stadium in the country. Pack a picnic and sit in the outfield next to the famous teepee during the game (and catch a few balls if you're lucky) or get a seat in the stands. }} ===Bars=== Bars close at 3AM; 12:30AM on Sundays. Alcohol can be bought in stores on Sundays from Noon to 8 PM. Age requirements vary and are listed below. *{{see | name='''Alley Cat'''| alt= | url= | address=6267 Carrollton Ave | lat=39.86944 | long=-86.14459 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A dive bar in Broad Ripple, down an alley. No windows, smoke-ridden, and open at 7AM for breakfast till 3AM for dinner. A great jukebox, legendary bar staff, numerous pool tables, and the hardest drinks in town. Sometimes bands play too. A place you know will never change. Vegetarian friendly. 21+ }} [[File:Mass Ave.jpg|alt=A large painting of Vonnegut on the side of a building|thumb|Hometown hero Kurt Vonnegut is honored by a large painting on Mass Ave. blocks from the Rathskeller designed by his family.]] *{{see | name='''Kellerbar at the Rathskeller'''| alt= | url=http://www.rathskeller.com/ | address=401 E Michigan St | lat=39.77377 | long=-86.15031 | directions= | price= | content=Located inside the Rathskeller German restaurant, this is a place to drink beers from around the world and sop it all up with German food. During the warm months, this is one of the busiest bars in town. Get there early to enjoy a quieter beer or two; the bar opens up in the afternoon and you can enjoy their in-house brew (the Dunkel is particularly good) outside in the Biergarten or inside in the cozy oak bar that emulates a German castle. Later in the evening on the weekends, cover bands rock out in the garden and drunk college students go wild. }} *{{see | name='''Metro'''| alt= | url=http://www.metro-indy.com | address=707 Massachusetts Ave | lat=39.77649 | long=-86.14661 | directions= | price= | content=A laid back, casual environment with a pub downstairs and a modern pool hall upstairs. Their karaoke is legendary—featuring people who really can sing. Upstairs they also feature a sex/bdsm shop for kinky goods. Speaking of kink, food is served. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''The Vogue'''| alt= | url=http://www.thevogue.com/ | address=6259 N College Ave | lat=39.86922 | long=-86.14586 | directions= | price= | content=A movie theater built in the 1930s, in the 1970s it opened up as a music venue and nightclub. Now, it's the place for college kids to get wasted on the weekends and dance to top 40 and retro tunes. You'll also find great live music and past acts include Cheap Trick, Johnny Cash, David Byrne, The White Stripes, Common, Sean Paul, The Faint, VHS Or Beta, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams III, The Black Keys and more. Cover varies. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''Slippery Noodle Inn'''| alt= | url=http://www.slipperynoodle.com/ | address=372 S Meridian St | lat=39.76164 | long=-86.15883 | directions= | price= | content=The oldest bar in Indiana since 1850. It used to be a brothel, and it's now the best blues bar in the city. Steaks, homemade soup, baked potatoes, sandwiches and subs are the starts of the menu with a classic bar menu to boot. Beer, champagne, wine, and of course—hard liquor is poured with pride and the blues is local and national/international acts. There are still bullet holes in the wall from brawls in the 1800s. Dis is it. 21+ }} ===Other Food and Drink=== *{{eat | name='''Yats'''| alt= | url=http://www.yatscajuncreole.com/ | address=5650 W 86th St | lat=39.91252 | long=-86.26147 | price= | content=Indy's top restaurant for Cajun food. Sharing four locations, owned by a New Orleans native transplant, you'll feel like you're in the Crescent City. Large quantities of limited meals are offered up each day—and each is so tasty you'll be content. Pig out on great Cajun eats in a fun artsy environment. Vegan food available too. Hipsters and punks serve up your meals and sodas are refillable and mere $1. A great deal for a lot of enjoyable food. The chili cheese crawfish etouffe is their signature dish, but the jambalaya is also outstanding. Vegan friendly. }} *{{eat | name='''Sabor Venezolano'''| alt= | url=https://saborvenezolanorestaurantbarin.com/ | address=4930 Lafayette Rd Ste E | lat=39.84355 | long=-86.25452 | directions= | price= | content=Casual venue offering traditional Venezuelan eats, including a delicious cachapa. }} *{{eat | name='''Yummy Bowl'''| alt= | url=https://www.yummybowlindianapolis.com/ | address=3451 W 86th St | lat=39.91134335840361 | long=-86.21812603800274 | directions= | price= | content=Home of local ''Chipotlé''-style Mongolian dishes. }} *{{eat | name='''Easley Winery'''| alt= | url=https://www.easleywinery.com/ | address=205 N College Ave | lat=39.769827 | long=-86.145158 | directions= | price= | lastedit=2016-03-03 | content=The oldest winery in downtown Indy. Free guided tours, wine tasting, and events. In warm months they feature after-work cocktails and live music. Check out the wine-shop featuring tons of wine and beer making goods. }} *{{eat | name='''Traders Point Creamery'''| alt= | url=http://www.traderspointcreamery.com | address=9101 Moore Rd | lat=39.91754 | long=-86.28764 | directions= | price= | content=Indy's only grass-fed USDA organic dairy. They are always open with their self-serve dairy-shop (with a bucket you pay and take your change from—honesty basis), and at 4PM you can watch the cows get milked au naturel. Creamy milk, amazing yogurt (voted #1 by the American Cheese Society in 2005), ice cream, eggs and cheeses are all for sale. On the weekends they feature a farmers market and organic cafe. You can walk the grounds petting cows and chasing chickens. Fun for the family and eco-friendly folk. }} ==Connect== ===Television=== *'''[https://www.wthr.com/ WTHR 13]''' NBC *'''[https://www.wfyi.org/ WFYI 20]''' PBS ===Newspapers=== *'''[http://www.indystar.com ''Indianapolis Star''].''' The city's daily and Sunday paper. Formerly locally owned, now published by national syndicate Gannett. {{isPartOf|Nine-County Region}} {{hasDocent|Koavf}} ezurbqr8eso5upei599b7w7skiunipf 5288992 5288991 2026-06-07T04:49:40Z MichaelGintz 2415262 5288992 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Indianapolisbanner-night.jpg|caption=The downtown canal at night|alt=A pathway next to the water with lights on either side}} '''Indianapolis''' is the capital of Indiana and also the state’s largest city. Efforts to beautify and modernize the city have brought Indianapolis into the 21st&nbsp;century as a world-class destination for everything from business meetings and trade conventions to backpackers making their way across the States. [[File:DT INDY 10-03-2010 JASSSMIT.JPG|alt=The Indianapolis skyline|thumb|Indianapolis began a project of downtown beautification in the 1990s—the skyline is seen here in 2010]] Indianapolis is widely hailed as the "Racing Capital of the World" because of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indy&nbsp;500 and Brickyard&nbsp;400 at the Brickyard, and as the "Amateur Sports Capital of America" for hosting the NCAA Hall of Champions. The city has several attractions outside of sports, including museums, a large zoo, over 100 ethnic restaurants, several arts and historic districts, and a revitalized downtown. Although Indy has been mocked with the epithet "India-noplace", visitors will encounter a mix of a large metropolitan city and a simple [[Midwest]]ern community. You will find beautiful architecture, monuments, and pristine cornfields in the Circle City. ==Understand== [[File:Indianapolis-indiana-from-above.jpg|alt=An aerial photograph of downtown Indianapolis|thumb|Indianapolis' downtown is cut through by the non-navigable waters of the White River]] The population is roughly 882,000 (2022), making it the 16th largest city in the United States, and the metro area has about 2&nbsp;million (#34). When Indianapolis was founded, it was expected to be a "Great Inland Port", but the White River turned out to be non-navigable most of the year. The pay-off is that this desire for a port left the city with a gorgeous canal district, though the canal itself is only useful for recreational kayaks and paddleboats. Today, Indianapolis is known as the "Crossroads of America" due to its centrality in America's Interstate Highway System. In general, travel in and through Indianapolis is safe, clean, and logical. Visitors can always find something to do without becoming overwhelmed at a sprawling metropolis. In a few minutes, you can go from a sleepy and peaceful cornfield to a vibrant downtown. City planning is intelligible to outsiders with a grid system broken up by a few major diagonal streets, a large beltway loop (I-465), and a general lack of gridlock and traffic. ==Get in== ===By train=== * {{see | name='''Indianapolis Union Station'''| alt= | address=350 South Illinois Street | lat=39.7625 | long=-86.1602 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A historic, and underused, grand station that has the distinction of being the first Union station. Most of the building has now been converted to other uses, including a hotel. Trains depart from southern end of the station, there is a small waiting room as well as ticket offices. }} **{{go|name='''Amtrak'''|alt=|address=350 South Illinois Street|lat=NA|long=NA|directions=|price=|content=Operates trains throughout the [[United States of America]].}} Route stopping in Indianapolis: *** '''[https://www.amtrak.com/cardinal-train Cardinal]''' operating three trips weekly between [[Chicago]] and [[New York City]]. ==Get around== [[File:Indianapolis-downtown-gintz-2.png|thumb|upright=1.8|Downtown Indianapolis]] {{Mapframe|39.76833|-86.15806|zoom=10|name=Indianapolis and Marion County. There are several "included cities" within this area that retain some independence, but for purposes of travel the only noticeable difference might be speed limits. Zoom in thrice to get a sense of the navigable portion of downtown.}} Outside of the walkable Downtown and some Cultural Districts, you'll need a vehicle to navigate the urban sprawl. The public bus system is fairly clean and efficient but routes are sometimes complex, and substantial portions of the metro area are inaccessible. Outside of peak hours, waits can be prohibitively long. Bike lanes alongside major roads have been constructed in the early 2010s, so cyclists will be sharing the road. ===By bike=== The [https://indyculturaltrail.org/ Indianapolis Cultural Trail] was built through several years in the early 21st century and takes riders through downtown providing signs with Indianapolis history; public art dots many stops and you will be guided past several restaurants and local businesses. [https://www.pacersbikeshare.org/ Indiana Pacers Bikeshare] provides free bike-sharing rides for up to 30 minutes at a time for all Marion County residents. For non-residents, ordinary bikes are $2 per ride + $0.20 per minute, and e-bikes are $5 + $0.25 per minute. With a bike you can easily navigate the area in and around downtown Indianapolis, including the following neighborhoods of note: [[File:Fountain Square Theatre in Indianapolis.jpg|alt=|thumb|The Fountain Square district is built around the historic Fountain Square Theatre. You can now get barbeque and go duckpin bowling in the structure.]] *{{marker|type=buy|name='''Mass Ave'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A hop skip and a jump from the Circle, Mass Ave has gone through an amazing rebirth to become one of the coolest shopping areas in town full of local shops. *{{marker|type=buy|name='''[http://www.fountainsquareindy.com/ Fountain Square]'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A historical area about a mile from downtown Indy, to the Southeast. Mainly comprising of antique, thrift and art shops. ==Enjoy== ===Landmarks=== [[File:Downtown Indianapolis panorama, 2015.jpg|alt=|thumb|The sun rising over downtown]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Capitol'''| alt= | address=200 W Washington St | lat=39.7689 | long=-86.1625 | directions=just west of Monument Circle | price=Free. Vehicles can be parked in nearby garages or at metered spots. Automobiles that violate the metered time policy risk receiving a ticket and having their automobiles towed | wikipedia=Indiana Statehouse | image=Capitol del Estado de Indiana, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 04.jpg | wikidata=Q1661319 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Completed in 1888, this is the hub for Indiana's state government, housing the Governor's office, the state legislature (State Senate and Indiana General Assembly) and the State Supreme Court. The first state capital was in the [[Southern Indiana]] town of [[Corydon]], and in 1825 it was moved to Indianapolis. Featuring Italian Renaissance, Greek, and Corinthian design, the building is made from primarily of Indiana limestone. Look up while in the Rotunda to see the amazing German stained glass window, take a guided or personal tour, or observe the government at work. }} *{{see | name='''Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument'''| alt= | address=1 Monument Cir | lat=39.7687 | long=-86.1579 | directions=The center of the city | price=Fees for elevator: adults $3.00, elderly (65 and over): free, youngsters (12 and under): no charge. Free for US military personnel and veterans. There is no fee to walk the steps. During business hours, elevator tickets are available for purchase at the Monument Gift Shop | wikipedia=Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument (Indianapolis) | image=Monument Circle, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.jpg | wikidata=Q1748884 | lastedit=2024-10-4 | content=This is the well-known monument in the center of the city. It is only fifteen feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty, having been built in 1902. The monument's sculpted depictions of gory Civil War fights and emancipated slaves are powerful. With Miss Liberty facing south, she defends the north from the confederate. The Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War museum is located in the basement, and visitors can ride the tower to the top for a view of the city. The grounds on the Monument are a wonderful representation of the city itself; they combine the calm of quietly roaring water and verdant grass with the energy of Downtown. It's also a great place to people watch. Additionally, there's a tiny gift shop. William Henry Harrison, the first Governor of the Indiana Territory and the United States President for a single month, is depicted on a statue at the base. The south steps are closed for renovation until November 2025, costing $10 million. }} *{{see | name='''Indiana War Memorial & Museum'''| alt= | address=55 E Michigan St | lat=39.7735 | long=-86.157 | directions=Slightly north, Downtown | price=Admission to the museum is free | wikidata=Q2439742 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=This pillared structure has a war museum, an elaborate auditorium, and a shrine honoring World War I troops who lost their lives. }} *{{see | name='''Scottish Rite Cathedral'''| alt= | address=650 N Meridian St | lat=39.7762 | long=-86.1585 | directions=slightly north, Downtown | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish Rite Cathedral (Indianapolis) | image=Catedral de tradición escocesa, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 02.jpg | wikidata=Q7437949 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=It is the largest Scottish Rite cathedral in the world and a masterpiece of architecture. Take a tour, investigate the enormous pipe organ, the floating dance floor, the hand-crafted art glass windows, discover the mystery surrounding Freemasonry, and stop by the cafe for a bite to eat. }} *{{see | name='''The American Legion National Headquarters'''| alt= | address=700 N Pennsylvania St | lat=39.777167 | long=-86.155738 | directions=northside of downtown | price=Free or paid parking | wikidata=Q468865 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Situated in the heart of downtown Indy with a beautiful mall that reminds one of D.C. Check out the museum that features hundreds of World War I & II posters and artifacts, a diorama of [[w:Jessica Lynch|Jessica Lynch]]'s rescue, explore the grounds and learn about the Legion's history. }} *{{see | name='''Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial'''| alt= | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.7703 | long=-86.169 | directions=westside of Downtown | price=Free | wikidata=Q6805056 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Monument that is part of White River State Park that pays tribute to over 3,000 Medal of Honor recipients. Ranges from Civil War through modern day clashes. It is made up of 27 curved glass walls, each {{ft|7–10}} high, and etched with the names. It's quite breathtaking—especially at night. }} * {{see | name='''Indiana 9/11 Memorial'''| alt= | address=421 W Ohio St | lat=39.7704 | long=-86.1657 | directions= | price=Free | wikipedia=Indiana 9/11 Memorial | image=Project 9-11 Indianapolis.jpg | wikidata=Q7248980 | lastedit=2024-01-16 | content= }} ===Museums=== [[File:Indiana War Memorial at night.jpg|alt=|thumb|300px|The colossal Indiana War Memorial]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Museum'''| alt= | lat=39.769 | long=-86.1693 | directions=Westside of Downtown | price=Adult $19, senior (60+) $17, youth $13, child under 3 free | wikipedia=Indiana State Museum | wikidata=Q6023430 | lastedit=2024-09-20 | content=One of the most exquisite residences in the nation is the new state museum. Discover Indiana's history, from dinosaurs and fossil discoveries to the American Civil War, World War II, and the present. Discover a hall honoring well-known Hoosiers, take advantage of the IMAX theater and special events, and stroll about White River State Park's grounds to see the sculpture garden honoring Indiana's counties. A must-watch. The little gift shop offers plush toys, gourmet beverages, unusual candies, and trinkets with Indiana themes. With its seasonal menus and freshly made soups, salads, and sandwiches, the Farmers Market Café offers a menu that pays homage to Indiana's past as a supplier of local, fresh produce. The famed chicken velvet soup is served at the historic L.S. Ayres Tea Room. }} *{{see | name='''James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home & Visitor Center'''| alt= | address=528 Lockerbie St | lat=39.773 | long=-86.1475 | directions=eastside of Downtown | price=Adult $10, student #1, children 6 and under free | wikidata=Q6145403 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=See the house where the renowned writer and poet spent the latter part of his life. "The Children's Poet" is how Riley is recognized. One of the best maintained Victorian homes in the nation, the house has been featured in ''Architectural Digest''. The house has never undergone renovations; every piece of furniture, up to the carpet, is original and dates back to 1916. See his possessions, collection of antiques, and background by taking a tour. }} *{{see | name='''Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site'''| alt= | address=1230 N Delaware St | lat=39.784 | long=-86.1543 | directions=Northside of Downtown | price=Adult $16, veteran $15, senior $15, college student $11, child $11, pre-school free | wikidata=Q4888783 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=The only Indianan to become U.S. president to date, holding office for one term (1889–1893). See this hero of the Civil War's stunning 1875 home, constructed in the Italianate Victorian style. It has three stories and is crammed with personal items, artwork, political mementos, and antiques. There is a First Ladies display in the carriage house at the back. They host entertaining events all year long, many of which feature outstanding reenactments of historical individuals from Indiana. A naturalization ceremony, tours of Victorian murder mysteries, and the always entertaining croquet competition are all held there. }} *{{see | name='''Newfields'''| alt=Indianapolis Museum of Art | address=4000 Michigan Rd | lat=39.8259 | long=-86.1855 | directions=10&nbsp;minutes north of Downtown | price=Adult $20, child 5 & under free, youth 6-17 $13, Access Pass $2 (certain areas of the IMA campus are free, including the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres, the IMA Café, Museum Store, and Five Brushstrokes) | wikipedia=Indianapolis Museum of Art | image=Indy-Art-Museum-Szmurlo.jpg | wikidata=Q1117704 | content=Reopened following a multi-million dollar renovation it's one of the most beautiful buildings in the country for fine art. Founded in 1883, this is one of the oldest art museums in the country, boasting over 50,000 pieces of art and an amazing public art library. Exhibits include Contemporary Art, European Art, Asian Art, African Art, Textile Art, and more. Rotating and traveling exhibits are abundant. Experience hands-on exhibits where you can create your own art, walk the amazing grounds exploring the sculptures, gardens, and homes, shop at the museum store and eat and drink at the IMA Cafe and Wolfgang Puck's namesake restaurant—this is the city he got his start in. On Thursdays and Fridays 5–9PM, the museum has a special "happy hour" for hip and artsy socialites at Puck's featuring cocktails and hors d'oeurves. Also on the grounds are the Oldfields–Lilly House & Gardens, the former estate of the Lillys. They are located on {{convert|26|acre|ha}} grounds with a 22-room mansion, gardens, and museum. }} * {{see | name='''Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library'''| alt= | address=543 Indiana Avenue | lat=39.7725 | long=-86.163333 | directions= | price=Adults $12, seniors/educators/military $10, students $8. Free on first M of each month | wikidata=Q6447107 | lastedit=2024-10-04 | content=A museum dedicated to literary and cultural contributions of author and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut. }} *{{see | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum'''| alt= | address=4790 W 16th St | lat=39.7902 | long=-86.2306 | directions=Speedway, Westside | price=$10 adult, $5 child, 5 and under free | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum | image=IMS HOF Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q6023901 | content=The IMA is the home of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, the Indianapolis 500. On the IMS grounds you will find the Museum which houses the world's largest collection of racing, classic, and antique cars. Check out 30 of the Indy 500 winner's cars, a 20-minute film about the history of the race, a souvenir shop and cafe. If you would like to see more of the track facilities, you also can pay a few bucks to ride in a bus around the actual race track (at about 40&nbsp;miles or 65&nbsp;km an hour). Or, for the more adventurous souls, you can try the Indy Racing Experience Driving Program where you can ride in a 2-seater Indy Car and experience speeds around the track up to 180&nbsp;miles or 300&nbsp;km an hour. }} [[File:Indiana State House 2.jpg|thumb|250px|The Indiana State House]] ===Festivals and events=== [[File:Indianapolis mini-marathon at the Motor Speedway, 2018.jpg|alt=A row of runners|thumb|Runners in the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon reaching the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2018. This is one of several preludes to the Indy 500.]] *''May'', {{listing | name='''The Indianapolis 500'''| alt= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=One of the largest sporting events in the world. The westside of the city and Speedway gets swamped and if you like big crowds, loud cars, and tailgating, this is for you. One of several events leading up to it is the largest mini-marathon in the world, so if you're extra ambitious, come early and run for {{mi|13.1}} (or a more modest but still impressive {{km|5}}). }} *''Early-Mid August'', {{listing | name='''Indiana State Fair'''| alt= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The biggest summer event in the state. A trip to Indiana isn't complete without a trip to the fair. Animals, crafts, art, rides, dancing, education, environmentalism, Hoosier Pride and food. They also have live music and concerts. Prairie Home Companion comes every other year. Although many locals usually complain about the food being largely overpriced. }} *''Early August'', {{listing | name='''Gen Con'''| alt= | address=Indiana Convention Center, 100 South Capitol Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The "best four days of gaming" in the world comes to Indianapolis every year. Thousands congregate from all over the world to play games of all types, meet sci-fi and fantasy film stars, purchase gamer goods and hang with others. The freakiest time of the year in downtown Indy. }} ===Parks=== [[File:C4241-Indianapolis-Canal.jpg|alt=|thumb|Downtown's Canal District reserves a plot of land for Military Park]] '''[http://www.indy.gov/eGov/City/dpr/Pages/IndyParksHome.aspx Indy Parks]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' features information and links regarding all Indianapolis public parks. Below is an example of some of the city's finest, which attract visitors and locals alike. *{{see | name='''Eagle Creek Park'''| alt= | address=7840 W 56th St | lat=39.854505 | long=-86.301777 | directions=Accessible from I-465 | price= | lastedit=2025-06-01 | content=On the west side of Indy, this huge park boasts many amenities, including a nature center, fitness course, fishing areas, and bird sanctuary. Fill your day with sailing, bird watching, fishing, rowing, hiking, swimming, ziplining. Only 10&nbsp;minutes from downtown. Admission: $7/car for non-Marion county Residents. }} *{{see | name='''Garfield Park'''| alt= | address=2345 Pagoda Dr | lat=39.734213 | long=-86.1519037 | directions= | price= | content=Oldest park in Indianapolis, established in 1881. Home of the Garfield Park Conservatory, which houses {{convert|10,000|ft2|m2}} of plants from all over the world, and the Sunken Gardens, built in 1916, which consist of {{convert|3|acres|ha}} of European classical formal gardens, which change based on the season. Other features include an arts center, MacAllister Center for the Performing Arts, swimming pool and aquatic center, picnic shelters, pagoda, tennis courts, softball diamond, numerous trails, horse shoe courts, playgrounds, sledding hill and countless other park activities. Free for most activities. Free parking. }} [[File:Skiles Test Nature Park.jpg|alt=Trees turning shade in autumn|thumb|Indianapolis has state parks, conservancies, small reserved areas downtown, and the natural resource area of Skiles Test Nature Park (pictured here in autumn).]] *{{see | name='''Holliday Park'''| alt= | address=6363 Spring Mill Rd | lat=39.871071 | long=-86.1634226 | directions= | price= | content=One of the oldest and coolest parks in town. Planted right on the White River with swamps, ponds, wildflower gardens, birdwatching sanctuaries, a renovated nature center, sculpture garden, and countless wildlife and plant life. In the warm months parents take their kids to play on the best playground in the city, and locals picnic, lay out, read and host family gatherings at the extensive parkland. A great place to wade and collect rocks too. 95 acres of trails and woodland, a must see. }} *{{see | name='''White River State Park'''| alt= | address=801 W Washington St | lat=39.770778 | long=-86.167145 | directions= | price=Free and paid parking | content=Home to the Indianapolis Zoo, White River Gardens, Victory Field, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art, Indiana State Museum, IMAX Theater, and NCAA Hall of Champions. It also has The Lawn near the river, which is host to concerts during each summer. Central Canal is also located within the park. Park passes are available for purchase, entrance to all 7 of the main attractions is included in the pass. }} ===Art=== *{{see | name='''Indiana Repertory Theatre'''| alt= | lat=39.7675 | long=-86.1611 | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Repertory Theatre | wikidata=Q6023385 | content=Some of the nation's finest actors perform in this architectural masterpiece of a theater. Two theaters provide different types of performances, and their famous version of ''A Christmas Carol'' is a classic. Be sure to check out their Shakespeare performances. Dress up in your Sunday best and see a matinee to save some bucks. Cocktails are served. All ages. }} ===Sports=== *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway''' | lat=NA | long=NA | alt= | email= | address=4790 W 16th St | directions= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway | image=Indianapolis Motor Speedway (15982572368) (cropped).jpg | wikidata=Q172732 | content=It is Indy's pride and joy sporting landmark. Several motor races take place here, most notably the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400 and Indycar Grand Prix. Check out the museum, or a race depending on your visit. Ticket prices aren't cheap to the main affairs, but just attending one of the many practices or qualifications during the racing season (May–Sep) is well worth the experience. A must-see when visiting Indy, for race lovers or not. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Pacers'''| alt= | address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Pacers | wikidata=Q170329 | content=NBA member, the Pacers can be seen live at their home court November–April. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Fever'''| alt= | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Fever | wikidata=Q1631017 | content=A member of the WNBA, the Fever plays from June–September, and tickets were quite a bit cheaper than their NBA counterparts before the 2024 arrival of college basketball icon Caitlin Clark. In Clark's first season, the Fever set new WNBA single-season records for average and total attendance, and even outdrew the Pacers. The team, which shares ownership with the Pacers, also plays in Gainbridge Fieldhouse. }} [[File:LucasOil.JPG|thumb|right|Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Colts]] *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Colts'''| alt= | address=500 S Capitol Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Colts | wikidata=Q193753 | content=[[American Football|The NFL's]] Indianapolis Colts football season runs from August–January. The Colts play home games at Lucas Oil Stadium, a retractable-roof stadium that opened in 2008, which hosts many other sporting events, competitions, and concert events throughout the year. }} *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Indians'''| alt= | address=501 W Maryland St | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price=$11–30 | wikipedia=Indianapolis Indians | image=Victory Field.jpg | wikidata=Q2748815 | content=The AAA minor league affiliate for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Their home stadium, Victory Field, has been deemed the best minor league baseball stadium in the country. Pack a picnic and sit in the outfield next to the famous teepee during the game (and catch a few balls if you're lucky) or get a seat in the stands. }} ===Bars=== Bars close at 3AM; 12:30AM on Sundays. Alcohol can be bought in stores on Sundays from Noon to 8 PM. Age requirements vary and are listed below. *{{see | name='''Alley Cat'''| alt= | address=6267 Carrollton Ave | lat=39.86944 | long=-86.14459 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A dive bar in Broad Ripple, down an alley. No windows, smoke-ridden, and open at 7AM for breakfast till 3AM for dinner. A great jukebox, legendary bar staff, numerous pool tables, and the hardest drinks in town. Sometimes bands play too. A place you know will never change. Vegetarian friendly. 21+ }} [[File:Mass Ave.jpg|alt=A large painting of Vonnegut on the side of a building|thumb|Hometown hero Kurt Vonnegut is honored by a large painting on Mass Ave. blocks from the Rathskeller designed by his family.]] *{{see | name='''Kellerbar at the Rathskeller'''| alt= | address=401 E Michigan St | lat=39.77377 | long=-86.15031 | directions= | price= | content=Located inside the Rathskeller German restaurant, this is a place to drink beers from around the world and sop it all up with German food. During the warm months, this is one of the busiest bars in town. Get there early to enjoy a quieter beer or two; the bar opens up in the afternoon and you can enjoy their in-house brew (the Dunkel is particularly good) outside in the Biergarten or inside in the cozy oak bar that emulates a German castle. Later in the evening on the weekends, cover bands rock out in the garden and drunk college students go wild. }} *{{see | name='''Metro'''| alt= | address=707 Massachusetts Ave | lat=39.77649 | long=-86.14661 | directions= | price= | content=A laid back, casual environment with a pub downstairs and a modern pool hall upstairs. Their karaoke is legendary—featuring people who really can sing. Upstairs they also feature a sex/bdsm shop for kinky goods. Speaking of kink, food is served. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''The Vogue'''| alt= | address=6259 N College Ave | lat=39.86922 | long=-86.14586 | directions= | price= | content=A movie theater built in the 1930s, in the 1970s it opened up as a music venue and nightclub. Now, it's the place for college kids to get wasted on the weekends and dance to top 40 and retro tunes. You'll also find great live music and past acts include Cheap Trick, Johnny Cash, David Byrne, The White Stripes, Common, Sean Paul, The Faint, VHS Or Beta, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams III, The Black Keys and more. Cover varies. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''Slippery Noodle Inn'''| alt= | lat=39.76164 | long=-86.15883 | directions= | price= | content=The oldest bar in Indiana since 1850. It used to be a brothel, and it's now the best blues bar in the city. Steaks, homemade soup, baked potatoes, sandwiches and subs are the starts of the menu with a classic bar menu to boot. Beer, champagne, wine, and of course—hard liquor is poured with pride and the blues is local and national/international acts. There are still bullet holes in the wall from brawls in the 1800s. Dis is it. 21+ }} ===Other Food and Drink=== *{{eat | name='''Yats'''| alt= | address=5650 W 86th St | lat=39.91252 | long=-86.26147 | price= | content=Indy's top restaurant for Cajun food. Sharing four locations, owned by a New Orleans native transplant, you'll feel like you're in the Crescent City. Large quantities of limited meals are offered up each day—and each is so tasty you'll be content. Pig out on great Cajun eats in a fun artsy environment. Vegan food available too. Hipsters and punks serve up your meals and sodas are refillable and mere $1. A great deal for a lot of enjoyable food. The chili cheese crawfish etouffe is their signature dish, but the jambalaya is also outstanding. Vegan friendly. }} *{{eat | name='''Sabor Venezolano'''| alt= | address=4930 Lafayette Rd Ste E | lat=39.84355 | long=-86.25452 | directions= | price= | content=Casual venue offering traditional Venezuelan eats, including a delicious cachapa. }} *{{eat | name='''Yummy Bowl'''| alt= | address=3451 W 86th St | lat=39.91134335840361 | long=-86.21812603800274 | directions= | price= | content=Home of local ''Chipotlé''-style Mongolian dishes. }} *{{eat | name='''Easley Winery'''| alt= | address=205 N College Ave | lat=39.769827 | long=-86.145158 | directions= | price= | lastedit=2016-03-03 | content=The oldest winery in downtown Indy. Free guided tours, wine tasting, and events. In warm months they feature after-work cocktails and live music. Check out the wine-shop featuring tons of wine and beer making goods. }} *{{eat | name='''Traders Point Creamery'''| alt= | address=9101 Moore Rd | lat=39.91754 | long=-86.28764 | directions= | price= | content=Indy's only grass-fed USDA organic dairy. They are always open with their self-serve dairy-shop (with a bucket you pay and take your change from—honesty basis), and at 4PM you can watch the cows get milked au naturel. Creamy milk, amazing yogurt (voted #1 by the American Cheese Society in 2005), ice cream, eggs and cheeses are all for sale. On the weekends they feature a farmers market and organic cafe. You can walk the grounds petting cows and chasing chickens. Fun for the family and eco-friendly folk. }} ==Connect== ===Television=== *'''[https://www.wthr.com/ WTHR 13]''' NBC *'''[https://www.wfyi.org/ WFYI 20]''' PBS ===Newspapers=== *'''[http://www.indystar.com ''Indianapolis Star''].''' The city's daily and Sunday paper. Formerly locally owned, now published by national syndicate Gannett. {{isPartOf|Nine-County Region}} {{hasDocent|Koavf}} 3qrmm5jrbrk8axq8djdkt7lyr57821p 5288993 5288992 2026-06-07T04:51:27Z MichaelGintz 2415262 5288993 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Indianapolisbanner-night.jpg|caption=The downtown canal at night|alt=A pathway next to the water with lights on either side}} '''Indianapolis''' is the capital of Indiana and also the state’s largest city. Efforts to beautify and modernize the city have brought Indianapolis into the 21st&nbsp;century as a world-class destination for everything from business meetings and trade conventions to backpackers making their way across the States. [[File:DT INDY 10-03-2010 JASSSMIT.JPG|alt=The Indianapolis skyline|thumb|Indianapolis began a project of downtown beautification in the 1990s—the skyline is seen here in 2010]] Indianapolis is widely hailed as the "Racing Capital of the World" because of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indy&nbsp;500 and Brickyard&nbsp;400 at the Brickyard, and as the "Amateur Sports Capital of America" for hosting the NCAA Hall of Champions. The city has several attractions outside of sports, including museums, a large zoo, over 100 ethnic restaurants, several arts and historic districts, and a revitalized downtown. Although Indy has been mocked with the epithet "India-noplace", visitors will encounter a mix of a large metropolitan city and a simple [[Midwest]]ern community. You will find beautiful architecture, monuments, and pristine cornfields in the Circle City. ==Understand== [[File:Indianapolis-indiana-from-above.jpg|alt=An aerial photograph of downtown Indianapolis|thumb|Indianapolis' downtown is cut through by the non-navigable waters of the White River]] The population is roughly 882,000 (2022), making it the 16th largest city in the United States, and the metro area has about 2&nbsp;million (#34). When Indianapolis was founded, it was expected to be a "Great Inland Port", but the White River turned out to be non-navigable most of the year. The pay-off is that this desire for a port left the city with a gorgeous canal district, though the canal itself is only useful for recreational kayaks and paddleboats. Today, Indianapolis is known as the "Crossroads of America" due to its centrality in America's Interstate Highway System. In general, travel in and through Indianapolis is safe, clean, and logical. Visitors can always find something to do without becoming overwhelmed at a sprawling metropolis. In a few minutes, you can go from a sleepy and peaceful cornfield to a vibrant downtown. City planning is intelligible to outsiders with a grid system broken up by a few major diagonal streets, a large beltway loop (I-465), and a general lack of gridlock and traffic. ==Get in== ===By train=== * {{see | name='''Indianapolis Union Station'''| alt= | address=350 South Illinois Street | lat=39.7625 | long=-86.1602 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A historic, and underused, grand station that has the distinction of being the first Union station. Most of the building has now been converted to other uses, including a hotel. Trains depart from southern end of the station, there is a small waiting room as well as ticket offices. }} **{{go|name='''Amtrak'''|alt=|address=350 South Illinois Street|lat=NA|long=NA|directions=|price=|content=Operates trains throughout the [[United States of America]].}} Route stopping in Indianapolis: *** '''Cardinal''' operating three trips weekly between [[Chicago]] and [[New York City]]. ==Get around== [[File:Indianapolis-downtown-gintz-2.png|thumb|upright=1.8|Downtown Indianapolis]] {{Mapframe|39.76833|-86.15806|zoom=10|name=Indianapolis and Marion County. There are several "included cities" within this area that retain some independence, but for purposes of travel the only noticeable difference might be speed limits. Zoom in thrice to get a sense of the navigable portion of downtown.}} Outside of the walkable Downtown and some Cultural Districts, you'll need a vehicle to navigate the urban sprawl. The public bus system is fairly clean and efficient but routes are sometimes complex, and substantial portions of the metro area are inaccessible. Outside of peak hours, waits can be prohibitively long. Bike lanes alongside major roads have been constructed in the early 2010s, so cyclists will be sharing the road. ===By bike=== The Indianapolis Cultural Trail was built through several years in the early 21st century and takes riders through downtown providing signs with Indianapolis history; public art dots many stops and you will be guided past several restaurants and local businesses. Indiana Pacers Bikeshare provides free bike-sharing rides for up to 30 minutes at a time for all Marion County residents. For non-residents, ordinary bikes are $2 per ride + $0.20 per minute, and e-bikes are $5 + $0.25 per minute. With a bike you can easily navigate the area in and around downtown Indianapolis, including the following neighborhoods of note: [[File:Fountain Square Theatre in Indianapolis.jpg|alt=|thumb|The Fountain Square district is built around the historic Fountain Square Theatre. You can now get barbeque and go duckpin bowling in the structure.]] *{{marker|type=buy|name='''Mass Ave'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A hop skip and a jump from the Circle, Mass Ave has gone through an amazing rebirth to become one of the coolest shopping areas in town full of local shops. *{{marker|type=buy|name='''Fountain Square'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A historical area about a mile from downtown Indy, to the Southeast. Mainly comprising of antique, thrift and art shops. ==Enjoy== ===Landmarks=== [[File:Downtown Indianapolis panorama, 2015.jpg|alt=|thumb|The sun rising over downtown]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Capitol'''| alt= | address=200 W Washington St | lat=39.7689 | long=-86.1625 | directions=just west of Monument Circle | price=Free. Vehicles can be parked in nearby garages or at metered spots. Automobiles that violate the metered time policy risk receiving a ticket and having their automobiles towed | wikipedia=Indiana Statehouse | image=Capitol del Estado de Indiana, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 04.jpg | wikidata=Q1661319 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Completed in 1888, this is the hub for Indiana's state government, housing the Governor's office, the state legislature (State Senate and Indiana General Assembly) and the State Supreme Court. The first state capital was in the [[Southern Indiana]] town of [[Corydon]], and in 1825 it was moved to Indianapolis. Featuring Italian Renaissance, Greek, and Corinthian design, the building is made from primarily of Indiana limestone. Look up while in the Rotunda to see the amazing German stained glass window, take a guided or personal tour, or observe the government at work. }} *{{see | name='''Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument'''| alt= | address=1 Monument Cir | lat=39.7687 | long=-86.1579 | directions=The center of the city | price=Fees for elevator: adults $3.00, elderly (65 and over): free, youngsters (12 and under): no charge. Free for US military personnel and veterans. There is no fee to walk the steps. During business hours, elevator tickets are available for purchase at the Monument Gift Shop | wikipedia=Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument (Indianapolis) | image=Monument Circle, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.jpg | wikidata=Q1748884 | lastedit=2024-10-4 | content=This is the well-known monument in the center of the city. It is only fifteen feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty, having been built in 1902. The monument's sculpted depictions of gory Civil War fights and emancipated slaves are powerful. With Miss Liberty facing south, she defends the north from the confederate. The Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War museum is located in the basement, and visitors can ride the tower to the top for a view of the city. The grounds on the Monument are a wonderful representation of the city itself; they combine the calm of quietly roaring water and verdant grass with the energy of Downtown. It's also a great place to people watch. Additionally, there's a tiny gift shop. William Henry Harrison, the first Governor of the Indiana Territory and the United States President for a single month, is depicted on a statue at the base. The south steps are closed for renovation until November 2025, costing $10 million. }} *{{see | name='''Indiana War Memorial & Museum'''| alt= | address=55 E Michigan St | lat=39.7735 | long=-86.157 | directions=Slightly north, Downtown | price=Admission to the museum is free | wikidata=Q2439742 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=This pillared structure has a war museum, an elaborate auditorium, and a shrine honoring World War I troops who lost their lives. }} *{{see | name='''Scottish Rite Cathedral'''| alt= | address=650 N Meridian St | lat=39.7762 | long=-86.1585 | directions=slightly north, Downtown | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish Rite Cathedral (Indianapolis) | image=Catedral de tradición escocesa, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 02.jpg | wikidata=Q7437949 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=It is the largest Scottish Rite cathedral in the world and a masterpiece of architecture. Take a tour, investigate the enormous pipe organ, the floating dance floor, the hand-crafted art glass windows, discover the mystery surrounding Freemasonry, and stop by the cafe for a bite to eat. }} *{{see | name='''The American Legion National Headquarters'''| alt= | address=700 N Pennsylvania St | lat=39.777167 | long=-86.155738 | directions=northside of downtown | price=Free or paid parking | wikidata=Q468865 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Situated in the heart of downtown Indy with a beautiful mall that reminds one of D.C. Check out the museum that features hundreds of World War I & II posters and artifacts, a diorama of [[w:Jessica Lynch|Jessica Lynch]]'s rescue, explore the grounds and learn about the Legion's history. }} *{{see | name='''Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial'''| alt= | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.7703 | long=-86.169 | directions=westside of Downtown | price=Free | wikidata=Q6805056 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Monument that is part of White River State Park that pays tribute to over 3,000 Medal of Honor recipients. Ranges from Civil War through modern day clashes. It is made up of 27 curved glass walls, each {{ft|7–10}} high, and etched with the names. It's quite breathtaking—especially at night. }} * {{see | name='''Indiana 9/11 Memorial'''| alt= | address=421 W Ohio St | lat=39.7704 | long=-86.1657 | directions= | price=Free | wikipedia=Indiana 9/11 Memorial | image=Project 9-11 Indianapolis.jpg | wikidata=Q7248980 | lastedit=2024-01-16 | content= }} ===Museums=== [[File:Indiana War Memorial at night.jpg|alt=|thumb|300px|The colossal Indiana War Memorial]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Museum'''| alt= | lat=39.769 | long=-86.1693 | directions=Westside of Downtown | price=Adult $19, senior (60+) $17, youth $13, child under 3 free | wikipedia=Indiana State Museum | wikidata=Q6023430 | lastedit=2024-09-20 | content=One of the most exquisite residences in the nation is the new state museum. Discover Indiana's history, from dinosaurs and fossil discoveries to the American Civil War, World War II, and the present. Discover a hall honoring well-known Hoosiers, take advantage of the IMAX theater and special events, and stroll about White River State Park's grounds to see the sculpture garden honoring Indiana's counties. A must-watch. The little gift shop offers plush toys, gourmet beverages, unusual candies, and trinkets with Indiana themes. With its seasonal menus and freshly made soups, salads, and sandwiches, the Farmers Market Café offers a menu that pays homage to Indiana's past as a supplier of local, fresh produce. The famed chicken velvet soup is served at the historic L.S. Ayres Tea Room. }} *{{see | name='''James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home & Visitor Center'''| alt= | address=528 Lockerbie St | lat=39.773 | long=-86.1475 | directions=eastside of Downtown | price=Adult $10, student #1, children 6 and under free | wikidata=Q6145403 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=See the house where the renowned writer and poet spent the latter part of his life. "The Children's Poet" is how Riley is recognized. One of the best maintained Victorian homes in the nation, the house has been featured in ''Architectural Digest''. The house has never undergone renovations; every piece of furniture, up to the carpet, is original and dates back to 1916. See his possessions, collection of antiques, and background by taking a tour. }} *{{see | name='''Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site'''| alt= | address=1230 N Delaware St | lat=39.784 | long=-86.1543 | directions=Northside of Downtown | price=Adult $16, veteran $15, senior $15, college student $11, child $11, pre-school free | wikidata=Q4888783 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=The only Indianan to become U.S. president to date, holding office for one term (1889–1893). See this hero of the Civil War's stunning 1875 home, constructed in the Italianate Victorian style. It has three stories and is crammed with personal items, artwork, political mementos, and antiques. There is a First Ladies display in the carriage house at the back. They host entertaining events all year long, many of which feature outstanding reenactments of historical individuals from Indiana. A naturalization ceremony, tours of Victorian murder mysteries, and the always entertaining croquet competition are all held there. }} *{{see | name='''Newfields'''| alt=Indianapolis Museum of Art | address=4000 Michigan Rd | lat=39.8259 | long=-86.1855 | directions=10&nbsp;minutes north of Downtown | price=Adult $20, child 5 & under free, youth 6-17 $13, Access Pass $2 (certain areas of the IMA campus are free, including the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres, the IMA Café, Museum Store, and Five Brushstrokes) | wikipedia=Indianapolis Museum of Art | image=Indy-Art-Museum-Szmurlo.jpg | wikidata=Q1117704 | content=Reopened following a multi-million dollar renovation it's one of the most beautiful buildings in the country for fine art. Founded in 1883, this is one of the oldest art museums in the country, boasting over 50,000 pieces of art and an amazing public art library. Exhibits include Contemporary Art, European Art, Asian Art, African Art, Textile Art, and more. Rotating and traveling exhibits are abundant. Experience hands-on exhibits where you can create your own art, walk the amazing grounds exploring the sculptures, gardens, and homes, shop at the museum store and eat and drink at the IMA Cafe and Wolfgang Puck's namesake restaurant—this is the city he got his start in. On Thursdays and Fridays 5–9PM, the museum has a special "happy hour" for hip and artsy socialites at Puck's featuring cocktails and hors d'oeurves. Also on the grounds are the Oldfields–Lilly House & Gardens, the former estate of the Lillys. They are located on {{convert|26|acre|ha}} grounds with a 22-room mansion, gardens, and museum. }} * {{see | name='''Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library'''| alt= | address=543 Indiana Avenue | lat=39.7725 | long=-86.163333 | directions= | price=Adults $12, seniors/educators/military $10, students $8. Free on first M of each month | wikidata=Q6447107 | lastedit=2024-10-04 | content=A museum dedicated to literary and cultural contributions of author and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut. }} *{{see | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum'''| alt= | address=4790 W 16th St | lat=39.7902 | long=-86.2306 | directions=Speedway, Westside | price=$10 adult, $5 child, 5 and under free | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum | image=IMS HOF Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q6023901 | content=The IMA is the home of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, the Indianapolis 500. On the IMS grounds you will find the Museum which houses the world's largest collection of racing, classic, and antique cars. Check out 30 of the Indy 500 winner's cars, a 20-minute film about the history of the race, a souvenir shop and cafe. If you would like to see more of the track facilities, you also can pay a few bucks to ride in a bus around the actual race track (at about 40&nbsp;miles or 65&nbsp;km an hour). Or, for the more adventurous souls, you can try the Indy Racing Experience Driving Program where you can ride in a 2-seater Indy Car and experience speeds around the track up to 180&nbsp;miles or 300&nbsp;km an hour. }} [[File:Indiana State House 2.jpg|thumb|250px|The Indiana State House]] ===Festivals and events=== [[File:Indianapolis mini-marathon at the Motor Speedway, 2018.jpg|alt=A row of runners|thumb|Runners in the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon reaching the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2018. This is one of several preludes to the Indy 500.]] *''May'', {{listing | name='''The Indianapolis 500'''| alt= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=One of the largest sporting events in the world. The westside of the city and Speedway gets swamped and if you like big crowds, loud cars, and tailgating, this is for you. One of several events leading up to it is the largest mini-marathon in the world, so if you're extra ambitious, come early and run for {{mi|13.1}} (or a more modest but still impressive {{km|5}}). }} *''Early-Mid August'', {{listing | name='''Indiana State Fair'''| alt= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The biggest summer event in the state. A trip to Indiana isn't complete without a trip to the fair. Animals, crafts, art, rides, dancing, education, environmentalism, Hoosier Pride and food. They also have live music and concerts. Prairie Home Companion comes every other year. Although many locals usually complain about the food being largely overpriced. }} *''Early August'', {{listing | name='''Gen Con'''| alt= | address=Indiana Convention Center, 100 South Capitol Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The "best four days of gaming" in the world comes to Indianapolis every year. Thousands congregate from all over the world to play games of all types, meet sci-fi and fantasy film stars, purchase gamer goods and hang with others. The freakiest time of the year in downtown Indy. }} ===Parks=== [[File:C4241-Indianapolis-Canal.jpg|alt=|thumb|Downtown's Canal District reserves a plot of land for Military Park]] '''Indy Parks''' features information and links regarding all Indianapolis public parks. Below is an example of some of the city's finest, which attract visitors and locals alike. *{{see | name='''Eagle Creek Park'''| alt= | address=7840 W 56th St | lat=39.854505 | long=-86.301777 | directions=Accessible from I-465 | price= | lastedit=2025-06-01 | content=On the west side of Indy, this huge park boasts many amenities, including a nature center, fitness course, fishing areas, and bird sanctuary. Fill your day with sailing, bird watching, fishing, rowing, hiking, swimming, ziplining. Only 10&nbsp;minutes from downtown. Admission: $7/car for non-Marion county Residents. }} *{{see | name='''Garfield Park'''| alt= | address=2345 Pagoda Dr | lat=39.734213 | long=-86.1519037 | directions= | price= | content=Oldest park in Indianapolis, established in 1881. Home of the Garfield Park Conservatory, which houses {{convert|10,000|ft2|m2}} of plants from all over the world, and the Sunken Gardens, built in 1916, which consist of {{convert|3|acres|ha}} of European classical formal gardens, which change based on the season. Other features include an arts center, MacAllister Center for the Performing Arts, swimming pool and aquatic center, picnic shelters, pagoda, tennis courts, softball diamond, numerous trails, horse shoe courts, playgrounds, sledding hill and countless other park activities. Free for most activities. Free parking. }} [[File:Skiles Test Nature Park.jpg|alt=Trees turning shade in autumn|thumb|Indianapolis has state parks, conservancies, small reserved areas downtown, and the natural resource area of Skiles Test Nature Park (pictured here in autumn).]] *{{see | name='''Holliday Park'''| alt= | address=6363 Spring Mill Rd | lat=39.871071 | long=-86.1634226 | directions= | price= | content=One of the oldest and coolest parks in town. Planted right on the White River with swamps, ponds, wildflower gardens, birdwatching sanctuaries, a renovated nature center, sculpture garden, and countless wildlife and plant life. In the warm months parents take their kids to play on the best playground in the city, and locals picnic, lay out, read and host family gatherings at the extensive parkland. A great place to wade and collect rocks too. 95 acres of trails and woodland, a must see. }} *{{see | name='''White River State Park'''| alt= | address=801 W Washington St | lat=39.770778 | long=-86.167145 | directions= | price=Free and paid parking | content=Home to the Indianapolis Zoo, White River Gardens, Victory Field, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art, Indiana State Museum, IMAX Theater, and NCAA Hall of Champions. It also has The Lawn near the river, which is host to concerts during each summer. Central Canal is also located within the park. Park passes are available for purchase, entrance to all 7 of the main attractions is included in the pass. }} ===Art=== *{{see | name='''Indiana Repertory Theatre'''| alt= | lat=39.7675 | long=-86.1611 | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Repertory Theatre | wikidata=Q6023385 | content=Some of the nation's finest actors perform in this architectural masterpiece of a theater. Two theaters provide different types of performances, and their famous version of ''A Christmas Carol'' is a classic. Be sure to check out their Shakespeare performances. Dress up in your Sunday best and see a matinee to save some bucks. Cocktails are served. All ages. }} ===Sports=== *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway''' | lat=NA | long=NA | alt= | email= | address=4790 W 16th St | directions= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway | image=Indianapolis Motor Speedway (15982572368) (cropped).jpg | wikidata=Q172732 | content=It is Indy's pride and joy sporting landmark. Several motor races take place here, most notably the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400 and Indycar Grand Prix. Check out the museum, or a race depending on your visit. Ticket prices aren't cheap to the main affairs, but just attending one of the many practices or qualifications during the racing season (May–Sep) is well worth the experience. A must-see when visiting Indy, for race lovers or not. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Pacers'''| alt= | address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Pacers | wikidata=Q170329 | content=NBA member, the Pacers can be seen live at their home court November–April. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Fever'''| alt= | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Fever | wikidata=Q1631017 | content=A member of the WNBA, the Fever plays from June–September, and tickets were quite a bit cheaper than their NBA counterparts before the 2024 arrival of college basketball icon Caitlin Clark. In Clark's first season, the Fever set new WNBA single-season records for average and total attendance, and even outdrew the Pacers. The team, which shares ownership with the Pacers, also plays in Gainbridge Fieldhouse. }} [[File:LucasOil.JPG|thumb|right|Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Colts]] *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Colts'''| alt= | address=500 S Capitol Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Colts | wikidata=Q193753 | content=[[American Football|The NFL's]] Indianapolis Colts football season runs from August–January. The Colts play home games at Lucas Oil Stadium, a retractable-roof stadium that opened in 2008, which hosts many other sporting events, competitions, and concert events throughout the year. }} *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Indians'''| alt= | address=501 W Maryland St | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price=$11–30 | wikipedia=Indianapolis Indians | image=Victory Field.jpg | wikidata=Q2748815 | content=The AAA minor league affiliate for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Their home stadium, Victory Field, has been deemed the best minor league baseball stadium in the country. Pack a picnic and sit in the outfield next to the famous teepee during the game (and catch a few balls if you're lucky) or get a seat in the stands. }} ===Bars=== Bars close at 3AM; 12:30AM on Sundays. Alcohol can be bought in stores on Sundays from Noon to 8 PM. Age requirements vary and are listed below. *{{see | name='''Alley Cat'''| alt= | address=6267 Carrollton Ave | lat=39.86944 | long=-86.14459 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A dive bar in Broad Ripple, down an alley. No windows, smoke-ridden, and open at 7AM for breakfast till 3AM for dinner. A great jukebox, legendary bar staff, numerous pool tables, and the hardest drinks in town. Sometimes bands play too. A place you know will never change. Vegetarian friendly. 21+ }} [[File:Mass Ave.jpg|alt=A large painting of Vonnegut on the side of a building|thumb|Hometown hero Kurt Vonnegut is honored by a large painting on Mass Ave. blocks from the Rathskeller designed by his family.]] *{{see | name='''Kellerbar at the Rathskeller'''| alt= | address=401 E Michigan St | lat=39.77377 | long=-86.15031 | directions= | price= | content=Located inside the Rathskeller German restaurant, this is a place to drink beers from around the world and sop it all up with German food. During the warm months, this is one of the busiest bars in town. Get there early to enjoy a quieter beer or two; the bar opens up in the afternoon and you can enjoy their in-house brew (the Dunkel is particularly good) outside in the Biergarten or inside in the cozy oak bar that emulates a German castle. Later in the evening on the weekends, cover bands rock out in the garden and drunk college students go wild. }} *{{see | name='''Metro'''| alt= | address=707 Massachusetts Ave | lat=39.77649 | long=-86.14661 | directions= | price= | content=A laid back, casual environment with a pub downstairs and a modern pool hall upstairs. Their karaoke is legendary—featuring people who really can sing. Upstairs they also feature a sex/bdsm shop for kinky goods. Speaking of kink, food is served. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''The Vogue'''| alt= | address=6259 N College Ave | lat=39.86922 | long=-86.14586 | directions= | price= | content=A movie theater built in the 1930s, in the 1970s it opened up as a music venue and nightclub. Now, it's the place for college kids to get wasted on the weekends and dance to top 40 and retro tunes. You'll also find great live music and past acts include Cheap Trick, Johnny Cash, David Byrne, The White Stripes, Common, Sean Paul, The Faint, VHS Or Beta, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams III, The Black Keys and more. Cover varies. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''Slippery Noodle Inn'''| alt= | lat=39.76164 | long=-86.15883 | directions= | price= | content=The oldest bar in Indiana since 1850. It used to be a brothel, and it's now the best blues bar in the city. Steaks, homemade soup, baked potatoes, sandwiches and subs are the starts of the menu with a classic bar menu to boot. Beer, champagne, wine, and of course—hard liquor is poured with pride and the blues is local and national/international acts. There are still bullet holes in the wall from brawls in the 1800s. Dis is it. 21+ }} ===Other Food and Drink=== *{{eat | name='''Yats'''| alt= | address=5650 W 86th St | lat=39.91252 | long=-86.26147 | price= | content=Indy's top restaurant for Cajun food. Sharing four locations, owned by a New Orleans native transplant, you'll feel like you're in the Crescent City. Large quantities of limited meals are offered up each day—and each is so tasty you'll be content. Pig out on great Cajun eats in a fun artsy environment. Vegan food available too. Hipsters and punks serve up your meals and sodas are refillable and mere $1. A great deal for a lot of enjoyable food. The chili cheese crawfish etouffe is their signature dish, but the jambalaya is also outstanding. Vegan friendly. }} *{{eat | name='''Sabor Venezolano'''| alt= | address=4930 Lafayette Rd Ste E | lat=39.84355 | long=-86.25452 | directions= | price= | content=Casual venue offering traditional Venezuelan eats, including a delicious cachapa. }} *{{eat | name='''Yummy Bowl'''| alt= | address=3451 W 86th St | lat=39.91134335840361 | long=-86.21812603800274 | directions= | price= | content=Home of local ''Chipotlé''-style Mongolian dishes. }} *{{eat | name='''Easley Winery'''| alt= | address=205 N College Ave | lat=39.769827 | long=-86.145158 | directions= | price= | lastedit=2016-03-03 | content=The oldest winery in downtown Indy. Free guided tours, wine tasting, and events. In warm months they feature after-work cocktails and live music. Check out the wine-shop featuring tons of wine and beer making goods. }} *{{eat | name='''Traders Point Creamery'''| alt= | address=9101 Moore Rd | lat=39.91754 | long=-86.28764 | directions= | price= | content=Indy's only grass-fed USDA organic dairy. They are always open with their self-serve dairy-shop (with a bucket you pay and take your change from—honesty basis), and at 4PM you can watch the cows get milked au naturel. Creamy milk, amazing yogurt (voted #1 by the American Cheese Society in 2005), ice cream, eggs and cheeses are all for sale. On the weekends they feature a farmers market and organic cafe. You can walk the grounds petting cows and chasing chickens. Fun for the family and eco-friendly folk. }} ==Connect== ===Television=== *'''WTHR 13''' NBC *'''WFYI 20''' PBS ===Newspapers=== *'''''Indianapolis Star''.''' The city's daily and Sunday paper. Formerly locally owned, now published by national syndicate Gannett. {{isPartOf|Nine-County Region}} {{hasDocent|Koavf}} jwadpdzdzylby6mvy1tfgi0ygq6met7 5288994 5288993 2026-06-07T04:52:45Z MichaelGintz 2415262 5288994 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Indianapolisbanner-night.jpg|caption=The downtown canal at night|alt=A pathway next to the water with lights on either side}} '''Indianapolis''' is the capital of Indiana and also the state’s largest city. Efforts to beautify and modernize the city have brought Indianapolis into the 21st&nbsp;century as a world-class destination for everything from business meetings and trade conventions to backpackers making their way across the States. [[File:DT INDY 10-03-2010 JASSSMIT.JPG|alt=The Indianapolis skyline|thumb|Indianapolis began a project of downtown beautification in the 1990s—the skyline is seen here in 2010]] Indianapolis is widely hailed as the "Racing Capital of the World" because of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indy&nbsp;500 and Brickyard&nbsp;400 at the Brickyard, and as the "Amateur Sports Capital of America" for hosting the NCAA Hall of Champions. The city has several attractions outside of sports, including museums, a large zoo, over 100 ethnic restaurants, several arts and historic districts, and a revitalized downtown. Although Indy has been mocked with the epithet "India-noplace", visitors will encounter a mix of a large metropolitan city and a simple Midwestern community. You will find beautiful architecture, monuments, and pristine cornfields in the Circle City. ==Understand== [[File:Indianapolis-indiana-from-above.jpg|alt=An aerial photograph of downtown Indianapolis|thumb|Indianapolis' downtown is cut through by the non-navigable waters of the White River]] The population is roughly 882,000 (2022), making it the 16th largest city in the United States, and the metro area has about 2&nbsp;million (#34). When Indianapolis was founded, it was expected to be a "Great Inland Port", but the White River turned out to be non-navigable most of the year. The pay-off is that this desire for a port left the city with a gorgeous canal district, though the canal itself is only useful for recreational kayaks and paddleboats. Today, Indianapolis is known as the "Crossroads of America" due to its centrality in America's Interstate Highway System. In general, travel in and through Indianapolis is safe, clean, and logical. Visitors can always find something to do without becoming overwhelmed at a sprawling metropolis. In a few minutes, you can go from a sleepy and peaceful cornfield to a vibrant downtown. City planning is intelligible to outsiders with a grid system broken up by a few major diagonal streets, a large beltway loop (I-465), and a general lack of gridlock and traffic. ==Get in== ===By train=== * {{see | name='''Indianapolis Union Station'''| alt= | address=350 South Illinois Street | lat=39.7625 | long=-86.1602 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A historic, and underused, grand station that has the distinction of being the first Union station. Most of the building has now been converted to other uses, including a hotel. Trains depart from southern end of the station, there is a small waiting room as well as ticket offices. }} **{{go|name='''Amtrak'''|alt=|address=350 South Illinois Street|lat=NA|long=NA|directions=|price=|content=Operates trains throughout the United States of America.}} Route stopping in Indianapolis: *** '''Cardinal''' operating three trips weekly between Chicago and New York City. ==Get around== [[File:Indianapolis-downtown-gintz-2.png|thumb|upright=1.8|Downtown Indianapolis]] {{Mapframe|39.76833|-86.15806|zoom=10|name=Indianapolis and Marion County. There are several "included cities" within this area that retain some independence, but for purposes of travel the only noticeable difference might be speed limits. Zoom in thrice to get a sense of the navigable portion of downtown.}} Outside of the walkable Downtown and some Cultural Districts, you'll need a vehicle to navigate the urban sprawl. The public bus system is fairly clean and efficient but routes are sometimes complex, and substantial portions of the metro area are inaccessible. Outside of peak hours, waits can be prohibitively long. Bike lanes alongside major roads have been constructed in the early 2010s, so cyclists will be sharing the road. ===By bike=== The Indianapolis Cultural Trail was built through several years in the early 21st century and takes riders through downtown providing signs with Indianapolis history; public art dots many stops and you will be guided past several restaurants and local businesses. Indiana Pacers Bikeshare provides free bike-sharing rides for up to 30 minutes at a time for all Marion County residents. For non-residents, ordinary bikes are $2 per ride + $0.20 per minute, and e-bikes are $5 + $0.25 per minute. With a bike you can easily navigate the area in and around downtown Indianapolis, including the following neighborhoods of note: [[File:Fountain Square Theatre in Indianapolis.jpg|alt=|thumb|The Fountain Square district is built around the historic Fountain Square Theatre. You can now get barbeque and go duckpin bowling in the structure.]] *{{marker|type=buy|name='''Mass Ave'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A hop skip and a jump from the Circle, Mass Ave has gone through an amazing rebirth to become one of the coolest shopping areas in town full of local shops. *{{marker|type=buy|name='''Fountain Square'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A historical area about a mile from downtown Indy, to the Southeast. Mainly comprising of antique, thrift and art shops. ==Enjoy== ===Landmarks=== [[File:Downtown Indianapolis panorama, 2015.jpg|alt=|thumb|The sun rising over downtown]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Capitol'''| alt= | address=200 W Washington St | lat=39.7689 | long=-86.1625 | directions=just west of Monument Circle | price=Free. Vehicles can be parked in nearby garages or at metered spots. Automobiles that violate the metered time policy risk receiving a ticket and having their automobiles towed | wikipedia=Indiana Statehouse | image=Capitol del Estado de Indiana, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 04.jpg | wikidata=Q1661319 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Completed in 1888, this is the hub for Indiana's state government, housing the Governor's office, the state legislature (State Senate and Indiana General Assembly) and the State Supreme Court. The first state capital was in the Southern Indiana town of Corydon, and in 1825 it was moved to Indianapolis. Featuring Italian Renaissance, Greek, and Corinthian design, the building is made from primarily of Indiana limestone. Look up while in the Rotunda to see the amazing German stained glass window, take a guided or personal tour, or observe the government at work. }} *{{see | name='''Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument'''| alt= | address=1 Monument Cir | lat=39.7687 | long=-86.1579 | directions=The center of the city | price=Fees for elevator: adults $3.00, elderly (65 and over): free, youngsters (12 and under): no charge. Free for US military personnel and veterans. There is no fee to walk the steps. During business hours, elevator tickets are available for purchase at the Monument Gift Shop | wikipedia=Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument (Indianapolis) | image=Monument Circle, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.jpg | wikidata=Q1748884 | lastedit=2024-10-4 | content=This is the well-known monument in the center of the city. It is only fifteen feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty, having been built in 1902. The monument's sculpted depictions of gory Civil War fights and emancipated slaves are powerful. With Miss Liberty facing south, she defends the north from the confederate. The Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War museum is located in the basement, and visitors can ride the tower to the top for a view of the city. The grounds on the Monument are a wonderful representation of the city itself; they combine the calm of quietly roaring water and verdant grass with the energy of Downtown. It's also a great place to people watch. Additionally, there's a tiny gift shop. William Henry Harrison, the first Governor of the Indiana Territory and the United States President for a single month, is depicted on a statue at the base. The south steps are closed for renovation until November 2025, costing $10 million. }} *{{see | name='''Indiana War Memorial & Museum'''| alt= | address=55 E Michigan St | lat=39.7735 | long=-86.157 | directions=Slightly north, Downtown | price=Admission to the museum is free | wikidata=Q2439742 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=This pillared structure has a war museum, an elaborate auditorium, and a shrine honoring World War I troops who lost their lives. }} *{{see | name='''Scottish Rite Cathedral'''| alt= | address=650 N Meridian St | lat=39.7762 | long=-86.1585 | directions=slightly north, Downtown | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish Rite Cathedral (Indianapolis) | image=Catedral de tradición escocesa, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 02.jpg | wikidata=Q7437949 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=It is the largest Scottish Rite cathedral in the world and a masterpiece of architecture. Take a tour, investigate the enormous pipe organ, the floating dance floor, the hand-crafted art glass windows, discover the mystery surrounding Freemasonry, and stop by the cafe for a bite to eat. }} *{{see | name='''The American Legion National Headquarters'''| alt= | address=700 N Pennsylvania St | lat=39.777167 | long=-86.155738 | directions=northside of downtown | price=Free or paid parking | wikidata=Q468865 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Situated in the heart of downtown Indy with a beautiful mall that reminds one of D.C. Check out the museum that features hundreds of World War I & II posters and artifacts, a diorama of Jessica Lynch's rescue, explore the grounds and learn about the Legion's history. }} *{{see | name='''Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial'''| alt= | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.7703 | long=-86.169 | directions=westside of Downtown | price=Free | wikidata=Q6805056 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Monument that is part of White River State Park that pays tribute to over 3,000 Medal of Honor recipients. Ranges from Civil War through modern day clashes. It is made up of 27 curved glass walls, each {{ft|7–10}} high, and etched with the names. It's quite breathtaking—especially at night. }} * {{see | name='''Indiana 9/11 Memorial'''| alt= | address=421 W Ohio St | lat=39.7704 | long=-86.1657 | directions= | price=Free | wikipedia=Indiana 9/11 Memorial | image=Project 9-11 Indianapolis.jpg | wikidata=Q7248980 | lastedit=2024-01-16 | content= }} ===Museums=== [[File:Indiana War Memorial at night.jpg|alt=|thumb|300px|The colossal Indiana War Memorial]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Museum'''| alt= | lat=39.769 | long=-86.1693 | directions=Westside of Downtown | price=Adult $19, senior (60+) $17, youth $13, child under 3 free | wikipedia=Indiana State Museum | wikidata=Q6023430 | lastedit=2024-09-20 | content=One of the most exquisite residences in the nation is the new state museum. Discover Indiana's history, from dinosaurs and fossil discoveries to the American Civil War, World War II, and the present. Discover a hall honoring well-known Hoosiers, take advantage of the IMAX theater and special events, and stroll about White River State Park's grounds to see the sculpture garden honoring Indiana's counties. A must-watch. The little gift shop offers plush toys, gourmet beverages, unusual candies, and trinkets with Indiana themes. With its seasonal menus and freshly made soups, salads, and sandwiches, the Farmers Market Café offers a menu that pays homage to Indiana's past as a supplier of local, fresh produce. The famed chicken velvet soup is served at the historic L.S. Ayres Tea Room. }} *{{see | name='''James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home & Visitor Center'''| alt= | address=528 Lockerbie St | lat=39.773 | long=-86.1475 | directions=eastside of Downtown | price=Adult $10, student #1, children 6 and under free | wikidata=Q6145403 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=See the house where the renowned writer and poet spent the latter part of his life. "The Children's Poet" is how Riley is recognized. One of the best maintained Victorian homes in the nation, the house has been featured in ''Architectural Digest''. The house has never undergone renovations; every piece of furniture, up to the carpet, is original and dates back to 1916. See his possessions, collection of antiques, and background by taking a tour. }} *{{see | name='''Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site'''| alt= | address=1230 N Delaware St | lat=39.784 | long=-86.1543 | directions=Northside of Downtown | price=Adult $16, veteran $15, senior $15, college student $11, child $11, pre-school free | wikidata=Q4888783 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=The only Indianan to become U.S. president to date, holding office for one term (1889–1893). See this hero of the Civil War's stunning 1875 home, constructed in the Italianate Victorian style. It has three stories and is crammed with personal items, artwork, political mementos, and antiques. There is a First Ladies display in the carriage house at the back. They host entertaining events all year long, many of which feature outstanding reenactments of historical individuals from Indiana. A naturalization ceremony, tours of Victorian murder mysteries, and the always entertaining croquet competition are all held there. }} *{{see | name='''Newfields'''| alt=Indianapolis Museum of Art | address=4000 Michigan Rd | lat=39.8259 | long=-86.1855 | directions=10&nbsp;minutes north of Downtown | price=Adult $20, child 5 & under free, youth 6-17 $13, Access Pass $2 (certain areas of the IMA campus are free, including the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres, the IMA Café, Museum Store, and Five Brushstrokes) | wikipedia=Indianapolis Museum of Art | image=Indy-Art-Museum-Szmurlo.jpg | wikidata=Q1117704 | content=Reopened following a multi-million dollar renovation it's one of the most beautiful buildings in the country for fine art. Founded in 1883, this is one of the oldest art museums in the country, boasting over 50,000 pieces of art and an amazing public art library. Exhibits include Contemporary Art, European Art, Asian Art, African Art, Textile Art, and more. Rotating and traveling exhibits are abundant. Experience hands-on exhibits where you can create your own art, walk the amazing grounds exploring the sculptures, gardens, and homes, shop at the museum store and eat and drink at the IMA Cafe and Wolfgang Puck's namesake restaurant—this is the city he got his start in. On Thursdays and Fridays 5–9PM, the museum has a special "happy hour" for hip and artsy socialites at Puck's featuring cocktails and hors d'oeurves. Also on the grounds are the Oldfields–Lilly House & Gardens, the former estate of the Lillys. They are located on {{convert|26|acre|ha}} grounds with a 22-room mansion, gardens, and museum. }} * {{see | name='''Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library'''| alt= | address=543 Indiana Avenue | lat=39.7725 | long=-86.163333 | directions= | price=Adults $12, seniors/educators/military $10, students $8. Free on first M of each month | wikidata=Q6447107 | lastedit=2024-10-04 | content=A museum dedicated to literary and cultural contributions of author and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut. }} *{{see | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum'''| alt= | address=4790 W 16th St | lat=39.7902 | long=-86.2306 | directions=Speedway, Westside | price=$10 adult, $5 child, 5 and under free | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum | image=IMS HOF Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q6023901 | content=The IMA is the home of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, the Indianapolis 500. On the IMS grounds you will find the Museum which houses the world's largest collection of racing, classic, and antique cars. Check out 30 of the Indy 500 winner's cars, a 20-minute film about the history of the race, a souvenir shop and cafe. If you would like to see more of the track facilities, you also can pay a few bucks to ride in a bus around the actual race track (at about 40&nbsp;miles or 65&nbsp;km an hour). Or, for the more adventurous souls, you can try the Indy Racing Experience Driving Program where you can ride in a 2-seater Indy Car and experience speeds around the track up to 180&nbsp;miles or 300&nbsp;km an hour. }} [[File:Indiana State House 2.jpg|thumb|250px|The Indiana State House]] ===Festivals and events=== [[File:Indianapolis mini-marathon at the Motor Speedway, 2018.jpg|alt=A row of runners|thumb|Runners in the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon reaching the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2018. This is one of several preludes to the Indy 500.]] *''May'', {{listing | name='''The Indianapolis 500'''| alt= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=One of the largest sporting events in the world. The westside of the city and Speedway gets swamped and if you like big crowds, loud cars, and tailgating, this is for you. One of several events leading up to it is the largest mini-marathon in the world, so if you're extra ambitious, come early and run for {{mi|13.1}} (or a more modest but still impressive {{km|5}}). }} *''Early-Mid August'', {{listing | name='''Indiana State Fair'''| alt= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The biggest summer event in the state. A trip to Indiana isn't complete without a trip to the fair. Animals, crafts, art, rides, dancing, education, environmentalism, Hoosier Pride and food. They also have live music and concerts. Prairie Home Companion comes every other year. Although many locals usually complain about the food being largely overpriced. }} *''Early August'', {{listing | name='''Gen Con'''| alt= | address=Indiana Convention Center, 100 South Capitol Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The "best four days of gaming" in the world comes to Indianapolis every year. Thousands congregate from all over the world to play games of all types, meet sci-fi and fantasy film stars, purchase gamer goods and hang with others. The freakiest time of the year in downtown Indy. }} ===Parks=== [[File:C4241-Indianapolis-Canal.jpg|alt=|thumb|Downtown's Canal District reserves a plot of land for Military Park]] '''Indy Parks''' features information and links regarding all Indianapolis public parks. Below is an example of some of the city's finest, which attract visitors and locals alike. *{{see | name='''Eagle Creek Park'''| alt= | address=7840 W 56th St | lat=39.854505 | long=-86.301777 | directions=Accessible from I-465 | price= | lastedit=2025-06-01 | content=On the west side of Indy, this huge park boasts many amenities, including a nature center, fitness course, fishing areas, and bird sanctuary. Fill your day with sailing, bird watching, fishing, rowing, hiking, swimming, ziplining. Only 10&nbsp;minutes from downtown. Admission: $7/car for non-Marion county Residents. }} *{{see | name='''Garfield Park'''| alt= | address=2345 Pagoda Dr | lat=39.734213 | long=-86.1519037 | directions= | price= | content=Oldest park in Indianapolis, established in 1881. Home of the Garfield Park Conservatory, which houses {{convert|10,000|ft2|m2}} of plants from all over the world, and the Sunken Gardens, built in 1916, which consist of {{convert|3|acres|ha}} of European classical formal gardens, which change based on the season. Other features include an arts center, MacAllister Center for the Performing Arts, swimming pool and aquatic center, picnic shelters, pagoda, tennis courts, softball diamond, numerous trails, horse shoe courts, playgrounds, sledding hill and countless other park activities. Free for most activities. Free parking. }} [[File:Skiles Test Nature Park.jpg|alt=Trees turning shade in autumn|thumb|Indianapolis has state parks, conservancies, small reserved areas downtown, and the natural resource area of Skiles Test Nature Park (pictured here in autumn).]] *{{see | name='''Holliday Park'''| alt= | address=6363 Spring Mill Rd | lat=39.871071 | long=-86.1634226 | directions= | price= | content=One of the oldest and coolest parks in town. Planted right on the White River with swamps, ponds, wildflower gardens, birdwatching sanctuaries, a renovated nature center, sculpture garden, and countless wildlife and plant life. In the warm months parents take their kids to play on the best playground in the city, and locals picnic, lay out, read and host family gatherings at the extensive parkland. A great place to wade and collect rocks too. 95 acres of trails and woodland, a must see. }} *{{see | name='''White River State Park'''| alt= | address=801 W Washington St | lat=39.770778 | long=-86.167145 | directions= | price=Free and paid parking | content=Home to the Indianapolis Zoo, White River Gardens, Victory Field, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art, Indiana State Museum, IMAX Theater, and NCAA Hall of Champions. It also has The Lawn near the river, which is host to concerts during each summer. Central Canal is also located within the park. Park passes are available for purchase, entrance to all 7 of the main attractions is included in the pass. }} ===Art=== *{{see | name='''Indiana Repertory Theatre'''| alt= | lat=39.7675 | long=-86.1611 | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Repertory Theatre | wikidata=Q6023385 | content=Some of the nation's finest actors perform in this architectural masterpiece of a theater. Two theaters provide different types of performances, and their famous version of ''A Christmas Carol'' is a classic. Be sure to check out their Shakespeare performances. Dress up in your Sunday best and see a matinee to save some bucks. Cocktails are served. All ages. }} ===Sports=== *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway''' | lat=NA | long=NA | alt= | email= | address=4790 W 16th St | directions= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway | image=Indianapolis Motor Speedway (15982572368) (cropped).jpg | wikidata=Q172732 | content=It is Indy's pride and joy sporting landmark. Several motor races take place here, most notably the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400 and Indycar Grand Prix. Check out the museum, or a race depending on your visit. Ticket prices aren't cheap to the main affairs, but just attending one of the many practices or qualifications during the racing season (May–Sep) is well worth the experience. A must-see when visiting Indy, for race lovers or not. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Pacers'''| alt= | address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Pacers | wikidata=Q170329 | content=NBA member, the Pacers can be seen live at their home court November–April. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Fever'''| alt= | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Fever | wikidata=Q1631017 | content=A member of the WNBA, the Fever plays from June–September, and tickets were quite a bit cheaper than their NBA counterparts before the 2024 arrival of college basketball icon Caitlin Clark. In Clark's first season, the Fever set new WNBA single-season records for average and total attendance, and even outdrew the Pacers. The team, which shares ownership with the Pacers, also plays in Gainbridge Fieldhouse. }} [[File:LucasOil.JPG|thumb|right|Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Colts]] *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Colts'''| alt= | address=500 S Capitol Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Colts | wikidata=Q193753 | content=The NFL's Indianapolis Colts football season runs from August–January. The Colts play home games at Lucas Oil Stadium, a retractable-roof stadium that opened in 2008, which hosts many other sporting events, competitions, and concert events throughout the year. }} *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Indians'''| alt= | address=501 W Maryland St | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price=$11–30 | wikipedia=Indianapolis Indians | image=Victory Field.jpg | wikidata=Q2748815 | content=The AAA minor league affiliate for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Their home stadium, Victory Field, has been deemed the best minor league baseball stadium in the country. Pack a picnic and sit in the outfield next to the famous teepee during the game (and catch a few balls if you're lucky) or get a seat in the stands. }} ===Bars=== Bars close at 3AM; 12:30AM on Sundays. Alcohol can be bought in stores on Sundays from Noon to 8 PM. Age requirements vary and are listed below. *{{see | name='''Alley Cat'''| alt= | address=6267 Carrollton Ave | lat=39.86944 | long=-86.14459 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A dive bar in Broad Ripple, down an alley. No windows, smoke-ridden, and open at 7AM for breakfast till 3AM for dinner. A great jukebox, legendary bar staff, numerous pool tables, and the hardest drinks in town. Sometimes bands play too. A place you know will never change. Vegetarian friendly. 21+ }} [[File:Mass Ave.jpg|alt=A large painting of Vonnegut on the side of a building|thumb|Hometown hero Kurt Vonnegut is honored by a large painting on Mass Ave. blocks from the Rathskeller designed by his family.]] *{{see | name='''Kellerbar at the Rathskeller'''| alt= | address=401 E Michigan St | lat=39.77377 | long=-86.15031 | directions= | price= | content=Located inside the Rathskeller German restaurant, this is a place to drink beers from around the world and sop it all up with German food. During the warm months, this is one of the busiest bars in town. Get there early to enjoy a quieter beer or two; the bar opens up in the afternoon and you can enjoy their in-house brew (the Dunkel is particularly good) outside in the Biergarten or inside in the cozy oak bar that emulates a German castle. Later in the evening on the weekends, cover bands rock out in the garden and drunk college students go wild. }} *{{see | name='''Metro'''| alt= | address=707 Massachusetts Ave | lat=39.77649 | long=-86.14661 | directions= | price= | content=A laid back, casual environment with a pub downstairs and a modern pool hall upstairs. Their karaoke is legendary—featuring people who really can sing. Upstairs they also feature a sex/bdsm shop for kinky goods. Speaking of kink, food is served. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''The Vogue'''| alt= | address=6259 N College Ave | lat=39.86922 | long=-86.14586 | directions= | price= | content=A movie theater built in the 1930s, in the 1970s it opened up as a music venue and nightclub. Now, it's the place for college kids to get wasted on the weekends and dance to top 40 and retro tunes. You'll also find great live music and past acts include Cheap Trick, Johnny Cash, David Byrne, The White Stripes, Common, Sean Paul, The Faint, VHS Or Beta, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams III, The Black Keys and more. Cover varies. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''Slippery Noodle Inn'''| alt= | lat=39.76164 | long=-86.15883 | directions= | price= | content=The oldest bar in Indiana since 1850. It used to be a brothel, and it's now the best blues bar in the city. Steaks, homemade soup, baked potatoes, sandwiches and subs are the starts of the menu with a classic bar menu to boot. Beer, champagne, wine, and of course—hard liquor is poured with pride and the blues is local and national/international acts. There are still bullet holes in the wall from brawls in the 1800s. Dis is it. 21+ }} ===Other Food and Drink=== *{{eat | name='''Yats'''| alt= | address=5650 W 86th St | lat=39.91252 | long=-86.26147 | price= | content=Indy's top restaurant for Cajun food. Sharing four locations, owned by a New Orleans native transplant, you'll feel like you're in the Crescent City. Large quantities of limited meals are offered up each day—and each is so tasty you'll be content. Pig out on great Cajun eats in a fun artsy environment. Vegan food available too. Hipsters and punks serve up your meals and sodas are refillable and mere $1. A great deal for a lot of enjoyable food. The chili cheese crawfish etouffe is their signature dish, but the jambalaya is also outstanding. Vegan friendly. }} *{{eat | name='''Sabor Venezolano'''| alt= | address=4930 Lafayette Rd Ste E | lat=39.84355 | long=-86.25452 | directions= | price= | content=Casual venue offering traditional Venezuelan eats, including a delicious cachapa. }} *{{eat | name='''Yummy Bowl'''| alt= | address=3451 W 86th St | lat=39.91134335840361 | long=-86.21812603800274 | directions= | price= | content=Home of local ''Chipotlé''-style Mongolian dishes. }} *{{eat | name='''Easley Winery'''| alt= | address=205 N College Ave | lat=39.769827 | long=-86.145158 | directions= | price= | lastedit=2016-03-03 | content=The oldest winery in downtown Indy. Free guided tours, wine tasting, and events. In warm months they feature after-work cocktails and live music. Check out the wine-shop featuring tons of wine and beer making goods. }} *{{eat | name='''Traders Point Creamery'''| alt= | address=9101 Moore Rd | lat=39.91754 | long=-86.28764 | directions= | price= | content=Indy's only grass-fed USDA organic dairy. They are always open with their self-serve dairy-shop (with a bucket you pay and take your change from—honesty basis), and at 4PM you can watch the cows get milked au naturel. Creamy milk, amazing yogurt (voted #1 by the American Cheese Society in 2005), ice cream, eggs and cheeses are all for sale. On the weekends they feature a farmers market and organic cafe. You can walk the grounds petting cows and chasing chickens. Fun for the family and eco-friendly folk. }} ==Connect== ===Television=== *'''WTHR 13''' NBC *'''WFYI 20''' PBS ===Newspapers=== *'''''Indianapolis Star''.''' The city's daily and Sunday paper. Formerly locally owned, now published by national syndicate Gannett. {{isPartOf|Nine-County Region}} {{hasDocent|Koavf}} 6kjabz7m8ae7pl9jv9lgnthf2dz956d 5288995 5288994 2026-06-07T04:54:12Z MichaelGintz 2415262 5288995 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Indianapolisbanner-night.jpg|caption=The downtown canal at night|alt=A pathway next to the water with lights on either side}} '''Indianapolis''' is the capital of Indiana and also the state’s largest city. Efforts to beautify and modernize the city have brought Indianapolis into the 21st&nbsp;century as a world-class destination for everything from business meetings and trade conventions to backpackers making their way across the States. [[File:DT INDY 10-03-2010 JASSSMIT.JPG|alt=The Indianapolis skyline|thumb|Indianapolis began a project of downtown beautification in the 1990s—the skyline is seen here in 2010]] Indianapolis is widely hailed as the "Racing Capital of the World" because of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indy&nbsp;500 and Brickyard&nbsp;400 at the Brickyard, and as the "Amateur Sports Capital of America" for hosting the NCAA Hall of Champions. The city has several attractions outside of sports, including museums, a large zoo, over 100 ethnic restaurants, several arts and historic districts, and a revitalized downtown. Although Indy has been mocked with the epithet "India-noplace", visitors will encounter a mix of a large metropolitan city and a simple Midwestern community. You will find beautiful architecture, monuments, and pristine cornfields in the Circle City. ==Understand== [[File:Indianapolis-indiana-from-above.jpg|alt=An aerial photograph of downtown Indianapolis|thumb|Indianapolis' downtown is cut through by the non-navigable waters of the White River]] The population is roughly 882,000 (2022), making it the 16th largest city in the United States, and the metro area has about 2&nbsp;million (#34). When Indianapolis was founded, it was expected to be a "Great Inland Port", but the White River turned out to be non-navigable most of the year. The pay-off is that this desire for a port left the city with a gorgeous canal district, though the canal itself is only useful for recreational kayaks and paddleboats. Today, Indianapolis is known as the "Crossroads of America" due to its centrality in America's Interstate Highway System. In general, travel in and through Indianapolis is safe, clean, and logical. Visitors can always find something to do without becoming overwhelmed at a sprawling metropolis. In a few minutes, you can go from a sleepy and peaceful cornfield to a vibrant downtown. City planning is intelligible to outsiders with a grid system broken up by a few major diagonal streets, a large beltway loop (I-465), and a general lack of gridlock and traffic. ==Get in== ===By train=== * {{see | name='''Indianapolis Union Station'''| alt= | address=350 South Illinois Street | lat=39.7625 | long=-86.1602 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A historic, and underused, grand station that has the distinction of being the first Union station. Most of the building has now been converted to other uses, including a hotel. Trains depart from southern end of the station, there is a small waiting room as well as ticket offices. }} **{{go|name='''Amtrak'''|alt=|address=350 South Illinois Street|lat=NA|long=NA|directions=|price=|content=Operates trains throughout the United States of America.}} Route stopping in Indianapolis: *** '''Cardinal''' operating three trips weekly between Chicago and New York City. ==Get around== [[File:Indianapolis-downtown-gintz-2.png|thumb|upright=1.8|Downtown Indianapolis]] Outside of the walkable Downtown and some Cultural Districts, you'll need a vehicle to navigate the urban sprawl. The public bus system is fairly clean and efficient but routes are sometimes complex, and substantial portions of the metro area are inaccessible. Outside of peak hours, waits can be prohibitively long. Bike lanes alongside major roads have been constructed in the early 2010s, so cyclists will be sharing the road. ===By bike=== The Indianapolis Cultural Trail was built through several years in the early 21st century and takes riders through downtown providing signs with Indianapolis history; public art dots many stops and you will be guided past several restaurants and local businesses. Indiana Pacers Bikeshare provides free bike-sharing rides for up to 30 minutes at a time for all Marion County residents. For non-residents, ordinary bikes are $2 per ride + $0.20 per minute, and e-bikes are $5 + $0.25 per minute. With a bike you can easily navigate the area in and around downtown Indianapolis, including the following neighborhoods of note: [[File:Fountain Square Theatre in Indianapolis.jpg|alt=|thumb|The Fountain Square district is built around the historic Fountain Square Theatre. You can now get barbeque and go duckpin bowling in the structure.]] *{{marker|type=buy|name='''Mass Ave'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A hop skip and a jump from the Circle, Mass Ave has gone through an amazing rebirth to become one of the coolest shopping areas in town full of local shops. *{{marker|type=buy|name='''Fountain Square'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A historical area about a mile from downtown Indy, to the Southeast. Mainly comprising of antique, thrift and art shops. ==Enjoy== ===Landmarks=== [[File:Downtown Indianapolis panorama, 2015.jpg|alt=|thumb|The sun rising over downtown]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Capitol'''| alt= | address=200 W Washington St | lat=39.7689 | long=-86.1625 | directions=just west of Monument Circle | price=Free. Vehicles can be parked in nearby garages or at metered spots. Automobiles that violate the metered time policy risk receiving a ticket and having their automobiles towed | wikipedia=Indiana Statehouse | image=Capitol del Estado de Indiana, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 04.jpg | wikidata=Q1661319 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Completed in 1888, this is the hub for Indiana's state government, housing the Governor's office, the state legislature (State Senate and Indiana General Assembly) and the State Supreme Court. The first state capital was in the Southern Indiana town of Corydon, and in 1825 it was moved to Indianapolis. Featuring Italian Renaissance, Greek, and Corinthian design, the building is made from primarily of Indiana limestone. Look up while in the Rotunda to see the amazing German stained glass window, take a guided or personal tour, or observe the government at work. }} *{{see | name='''Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument'''| alt= | address=1 Monument Cir | lat=39.7687 | long=-86.1579 | directions=The center of the city | price=Fees for elevator: adults $3.00, elderly (65 and over): free, youngsters (12 and under): no charge. Free for US military personnel and veterans. There is no fee to walk the steps. During business hours, elevator tickets are available for purchase at the Monument Gift Shop | wikipedia=Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument (Indianapolis) | image=Monument Circle, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.jpg | wikidata=Q1748884 | lastedit=2024-10-4 | content=This is the well-known monument in the center of the city. It is only fifteen feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty, having been built in 1902. The monument's sculpted depictions of gory Civil War fights and emancipated slaves are powerful. With Miss Liberty facing south, she defends the north from the confederate. The Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War museum is located in the basement, and visitors can ride the tower to the top for a view of the city. The grounds on the Monument are a wonderful representation of the city itself; they combine the calm of quietly roaring water and verdant grass with the energy of Downtown. It's also a great place to people watch. Additionally, there's a tiny gift shop. William Henry Harrison, the first Governor of the Indiana Territory and the United States President for a single month, is depicted on a statue at the base. The south steps are closed for renovation until November 2025, costing $10 million. }} *{{see | name='''Indiana War Memorial & Museum'''| alt= | address=55 E Michigan St | lat=39.7735 | long=-86.157 | directions=Slightly north, Downtown | price=Admission to the museum is free | wikidata=Q2439742 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=This pillared structure has a war museum, an elaborate auditorium, and a shrine honoring World War I troops who lost their lives. }} *{{see | name='''Scottish Rite Cathedral'''| alt= | address=650 N Meridian St | lat=39.7762 | long=-86.1585 | directions=slightly north, Downtown | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish Rite Cathedral (Indianapolis) | image=Catedral de tradición escocesa, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 02.jpg | wikidata=Q7437949 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=It is the largest Scottish Rite cathedral in the world and a masterpiece of architecture. Take a tour, investigate the enormous pipe organ, the floating dance floor, the hand-crafted art glass windows, discover the mystery surrounding Freemasonry, and stop by the cafe for a bite to eat. }} *{{see | name='''The American Legion National Headquarters'''| alt= | address=700 N Pennsylvania St | lat=39.777167 | long=-86.155738 | directions=northside of downtown | price=Free or paid parking | wikidata=Q468865 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Situated in the heart of downtown Indy with a beautiful mall that reminds one of D.C. Check out the museum that features hundreds of World War I & II posters and artifacts, a diorama of Jessica Lynch's rescue, explore the grounds and learn about the Legion's history. }} *{{see | name='''Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial'''| alt= | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.7703 | long=-86.169 | directions=westside of Downtown | price=Free | wikidata=Q6805056 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Monument that is part of White River State Park that pays tribute to over 3,000 Medal of Honor recipients. Ranges from Civil War through modern day clashes. It is made up of 27 curved glass walls, each {{ft|7–10}} high, and etched with the names. It's quite breathtaking—especially at night. }} * {{see | name='''Indiana 9/11 Memorial'''| alt= | address=421 W Ohio St | lat=39.7704 | long=-86.1657 | directions= | price=Free | wikipedia=Indiana 9/11 Memorial | image=Project 9-11 Indianapolis.jpg | wikidata=Q7248980 | lastedit=2024-01-16 | content= }} ===Museums=== [[File:Indiana War Memorial at night.jpg|alt=|thumb|300px|The colossal Indiana War Memorial]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Museum'''| alt= | lat=39.769 | long=-86.1693 | directions=Westside of Downtown | price=Adult $19, senior (60+) $17, youth $13, child under 3 free | wikipedia=Indiana State Museum | wikidata=Q6023430 | lastedit=2024-09-20 | content=One of the most exquisite residences in the nation is the new state museum. Discover Indiana's history, from dinosaurs and fossil discoveries to the American Civil War, World War II, and the present. Discover a hall honoring well-known Hoosiers, take advantage of the IMAX theater and special events, and stroll about White River State Park's grounds to see the sculpture garden honoring Indiana's counties. A must-watch. The little gift shop offers plush toys, gourmet beverages, unusual candies, and trinkets with Indiana themes. With its seasonal menus and freshly made soups, salads, and sandwiches, the Farmers Market Café offers a menu that pays homage to Indiana's past as a supplier of local, fresh produce. The famed chicken velvet soup is served at the historic L.S. Ayres Tea Room. }} *{{see | name='''James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home & Visitor Center'''| alt= | address=528 Lockerbie St | lat=39.773 | long=-86.1475 | directions=eastside of Downtown | price=Adult $10, student #1, children 6 and under free | wikidata=Q6145403 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=See the house where the renowned writer and poet spent the latter part of his life. "The Children's Poet" is how Riley is recognized. One of the best maintained Victorian homes in the nation, the house has been featured in ''Architectural Digest''. The house has never undergone renovations; every piece of furniture, up to the carpet, is original and dates back to 1916. See his possessions, collection of antiques, and background by taking a tour. }} *{{see | name='''Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site'''| alt= | address=1230 N Delaware St | lat=39.784 | long=-86.1543 | directions=Northside of Downtown | price=Adult $16, veteran $15, senior $15, college student $11, child $11, pre-school free | wikidata=Q4888783 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=The only Indianan to become U.S. president to date, holding office for one term (1889–1893). See this hero of the Civil War's stunning 1875 home, constructed in the Italianate Victorian style. It has three stories and is crammed with personal items, artwork, political mementos, and antiques. There is a First Ladies display in the carriage house at the back. They host entertaining events all year long, many of which feature outstanding reenactments of historical individuals from Indiana. A naturalization ceremony, tours of Victorian murder mysteries, and the always entertaining croquet competition are all held there. }} *{{see | name='''Newfields'''| alt=Indianapolis Museum of Art | address=4000 Michigan Rd | lat=39.8259 | long=-86.1855 | directions=10&nbsp;minutes north of Downtown | price=Adult $20, child 5 & under free, youth 6-17 $13, Access Pass $2 (certain areas of the IMA campus are free, including the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres, the IMA Café, Museum Store, and Five Brushstrokes) | wikipedia=Indianapolis Museum of Art | image=Indy-Art-Museum-Szmurlo.jpg | wikidata=Q1117704 | content=Reopened following a multi-million dollar renovation it's one of the most beautiful buildings in the country for fine art. Founded in 1883, this is one of the oldest art museums in the country, boasting over 50,000 pieces of art and an amazing public art library. Exhibits include Contemporary Art, European Art, Asian Art, African Art, Textile Art, and more. Rotating and traveling exhibits are abundant. Experience hands-on exhibits where you can create your own art, walk the amazing grounds exploring the sculptures, gardens, and homes, shop at the museum store and eat and drink at the IMA Cafe and Wolfgang Puck's namesake restaurant—this is the city he got his start in. On Thursdays and Fridays 5–9PM, the museum has a special "happy hour" for hip and artsy socialites at Puck's featuring cocktails and hors d'oeurves. Also on the grounds are the Oldfields–Lilly House & Gardens, the former estate of the Lillys. They are located on {{convert|26|acre|ha}} grounds with a 22-room mansion, gardens, and museum. }} * {{see | name='''Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library'''| alt= | address=543 Indiana Avenue | lat=39.7725 | long=-86.163333 | directions= | price=Adults $12, seniors/educators/military $10, students $8. Free on first M of each month | wikidata=Q6447107 | lastedit=2024-10-04 | content=A museum dedicated to literary and cultural contributions of author and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut. }} *{{see | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum'''| alt= | address=4790 W 16th St | lat=39.7902 | long=-86.2306 | directions=Speedway, Westside | price=$10 adult, $5 child, 5 and under free | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum | image=IMS HOF Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q6023901 | content=The IMA is the home of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, the Indianapolis 500. On the IMS grounds you will find the Museum which houses the world's largest collection of racing, classic, and antique cars. Check out 30 of the Indy 500 winner's cars, a 20-minute film about the history of the race, a souvenir shop and cafe. If you would like to see more of the track facilities, you also can pay a few bucks to ride in a bus around the actual race track (at about 40&nbsp;miles or 65&nbsp;km an hour). Or, for the more adventurous souls, you can try the Indy Racing Experience Driving Program where you can ride in a 2-seater Indy Car and experience speeds around the track up to 180&nbsp;miles or 300&nbsp;km an hour. }} [[File:Indiana State House 2.jpg|thumb|250px|The Indiana State House]] ===Festivals and events=== [[File:Indianapolis mini-marathon at the Motor Speedway, 2018.jpg|alt=A row of runners|thumb|Runners in the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon reaching the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2018. This is one of several preludes to the Indy 500.]] *''May'', {{listing | name='''The Indianapolis 500'''| alt= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=One of the largest sporting events in the world. The westside of the city and Speedway gets swamped and if you like big crowds, loud cars, and tailgating, this is for you. One of several events leading up to it is the largest mini-marathon in the world, so if you're extra ambitious, come early and run for {{mi|13.1}} (or a more modest but still impressive {{km|5}}). }} *''Early-Mid August'', {{listing | name='''Indiana State Fair'''| alt= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The biggest summer event in the state. A trip to Indiana isn't complete without a trip to the fair. Animals, crafts, art, rides, dancing, education, environmentalism, Hoosier Pride and food. They also have live music and concerts. Prairie Home Companion comes every other year. Although many locals usually complain about the food being largely overpriced. }} *''Early August'', {{listing | name='''Gen Con'''| alt= | address=Indiana Convention Center, 100 South Capitol Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The "best four days of gaming" in the world comes to Indianapolis every year. Thousands congregate from all over the world to play games of all types, meet sci-fi and fantasy film stars, purchase gamer goods and hang with others. The freakiest time of the year in downtown Indy. }} ===Parks=== [[File:C4241-Indianapolis-Canal.jpg|alt=|thumb|Downtown's Canal District reserves a plot of land for Military Park]] '''Indy Parks''' features information and links regarding all Indianapolis public parks. Below is an example of some of the city's finest, which attract visitors and locals alike. *{{see | name='''Eagle Creek Park'''| alt= | address=7840 W 56th St | lat=39.854505 | long=-86.301777 | directions=Accessible from I-465 | price= | lastedit=2025-06-01 | content=On the west side of Indy, this huge park boasts many amenities, including a nature center, fitness course, fishing areas, and bird sanctuary. Fill your day with sailing, bird watching, fishing, rowing, hiking, swimming, ziplining. Only 10&nbsp;minutes from downtown. Admission: $7/car for non-Marion county Residents. }} *{{see | name='''Garfield Park'''| alt= | address=2345 Pagoda Dr | lat=39.734213 | long=-86.1519037 | directions= | price= | content=Oldest park in Indianapolis, established in 1881. Home of the Garfield Park Conservatory, which houses {{convert|10,000|ft2|m2}} of plants from all over the world, and the Sunken Gardens, built in 1916, which consist of {{convert|3|acres|ha}} of European classical formal gardens, which change based on the season. Other features include an arts center, MacAllister Center for the Performing Arts, swimming pool and aquatic center, picnic shelters, pagoda, tennis courts, softball diamond, numerous trails, horse shoe courts, playgrounds, sledding hill and countless other park activities. Free for most activities. Free parking. }} [[File:Skiles Test Nature Park.jpg|alt=Trees turning shade in autumn|thumb|Indianapolis has state parks, conservancies, small reserved areas downtown, and the natural resource area of Skiles Test Nature Park (pictured here in autumn).]] *{{see | name='''Holliday Park'''| alt= | address=6363 Spring Mill Rd | lat=39.871071 | long=-86.1634226 | directions= | price= | content=One of the oldest and coolest parks in town. Planted right on the White River with swamps, ponds, wildflower gardens, birdwatching sanctuaries, a renovated nature center, sculpture garden, and countless wildlife and plant life. In the warm months parents take their kids to play on the best playground in the city, and locals picnic, lay out, read and host family gatherings at the extensive parkland. A great place to wade and collect rocks too. 95 acres of trails and woodland, a must see. }} *{{see | name='''White River State Park'''| alt= | address=801 W Washington St | lat=39.770778 | long=-86.167145 | directions= | price=Free and paid parking | content=Home to the Indianapolis Zoo, White River Gardens, Victory Field, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art, Indiana State Museum, IMAX Theater, and NCAA Hall of Champions. It also has The Lawn near the river, which is host to concerts during each summer. Central Canal is also located within the park. Park passes are available for purchase, entrance to all 7 of the main attractions is included in the pass. }} ===Art=== *{{see | name='''Indiana Repertory Theatre'''| alt= | lat=39.7675 | long=-86.1611 | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Repertory Theatre | wikidata=Q6023385 | content=Some of the nation's finest actors perform in this architectural masterpiece of a theater. Two theaters provide different types of performances, and their famous version of ''A Christmas Carol'' is a classic. Be sure to check out their Shakespeare performances. Dress up in your Sunday best and see a matinee to save some bucks. Cocktails are served. All ages. }} ===Sports=== *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway''' | lat=NA | long=NA | alt= | email= | address=4790 W 16th St | directions= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway | image=Indianapolis Motor Speedway (15982572368) (cropped).jpg | wikidata=Q172732 | content=It is Indy's pride and joy sporting landmark. Several motor races take place here, most notably the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400 and Indycar Grand Prix. Check out the museum, or a race depending on your visit. Ticket prices aren't cheap to the main affairs, but just attending one of the many practices or qualifications during the racing season (May–Sep) is well worth the experience. A must-see when visiting Indy, for race lovers or not. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Pacers'''| alt= | address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Pacers | wikidata=Q170329 | content=NBA member, the Pacers can be seen live at their home court November–April. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Fever'''| alt= | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Fever | wikidata=Q1631017 | content=A member of the WNBA, the Fever plays from June–September, and tickets were quite a bit cheaper than their NBA counterparts before the 2024 arrival of college basketball icon Caitlin Clark. In Clark's first season, the Fever set new WNBA single-season records for average and total attendance, and even outdrew the Pacers. The team, which shares ownership with the Pacers, also plays in Gainbridge Fieldhouse. }} [[File:LucasOil.JPG|thumb|right|Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Colts]] *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Colts'''| alt= | address=500 S Capitol Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Colts | wikidata=Q193753 | content=The NFL's Indianapolis Colts football season runs from August–January. The Colts play home games at Lucas Oil Stadium, a retractable-roof stadium that opened in 2008, which hosts many other sporting events, competitions, and concert events throughout the year. }} *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Indians'''| alt= | address=501 W Maryland St | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price=$11–30 | wikipedia=Indianapolis Indians | image=Victory Field.jpg | wikidata=Q2748815 | content=The AAA minor league affiliate for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Their home stadium, Victory Field, has been deemed the best minor league baseball stadium in the country. Pack a picnic and sit in the outfield next to the famous teepee during the game (and catch a few balls if you're lucky) or get a seat in the stands. }} ===Bars=== Bars close at 3AM; 12:30AM on Sundays. Alcohol can be bought in stores on Sundays from Noon to 8 PM. Age requirements vary and are listed below. *{{see | name='''Alley Cat'''| alt= | address=6267 Carrollton Ave | lat=39.86944 | long=-86.14459 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A dive bar in Broad Ripple, down an alley. No windows, smoke-ridden, and open at 7AM for breakfast till 3AM for dinner. A great jukebox, legendary bar staff, numerous pool tables, and the hardest drinks in town. Sometimes bands play too. A place you know will never change. Vegetarian friendly. 21+ }} [[File:Mass Ave.jpg|alt=A large painting of Vonnegut on the side of a building|thumb|Hometown hero Kurt Vonnegut is honored by a large painting on Mass Ave. blocks from the Rathskeller designed by his family.]] *{{see | name='''Kellerbar at the Rathskeller'''| alt= | address=401 E Michigan St | lat=39.77377 | long=-86.15031 | directions= | price= | content=Located inside the Rathskeller German restaurant, this is a place to drink beers from around the world and sop it all up with German food. During the warm months, this is one of the busiest bars in town. Get there early to enjoy a quieter beer or two; the bar opens up in the afternoon and you can enjoy their in-house brew (the Dunkel is particularly good) outside in the Biergarten or inside in the cozy oak bar that emulates a German castle. Later in the evening on the weekends, cover bands rock out in the garden and drunk college students go wild. }} *{{see | name='''Metro'''| alt= | address=707 Massachusetts Ave | lat=39.77649 | long=-86.14661 | directions= | price= | content=A laid back, casual environment with a pub downstairs and a modern pool hall upstairs. Their karaoke is legendary—featuring people who really can sing. Upstairs they also feature a sex/bdsm shop for kinky goods. Speaking of kink, food is served. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''The Vogue'''| alt= | address=6259 N College Ave | lat=39.86922 | long=-86.14586 | directions= | price= | content=A movie theater built in the 1930s, in the 1970s it opened up as a music venue and nightclub. Now, it's the place for college kids to get wasted on the weekends and dance to top 40 and retro tunes. You'll also find great live music and past acts include Cheap Trick, Johnny Cash, David Byrne, The White Stripes, Common, Sean Paul, The Faint, VHS Or Beta, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams III, The Black Keys and more. Cover varies. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''Slippery Noodle Inn'''| alt= | lat=39.76164 | long=-86.15883 | directions= | price= | content=The oldest bar in Indiana since 1850. It used to be a brothel, and it's now the best blues bar in the city. Steaks, homemade soup, baked potatoes, sandwiches and subs are the starts of the menu with a classic bar menu to boot. Beer, champagne, wine, and of course—hard liquor is poured with pride and the blues is local and national/international acts. There are still bullet holes in the wall from brawls in the 1800s. Dis is it. 21+ }} ===Other Food and Drink=== *{{eat | name='''Yats'''| alt= | address=5650 W 86th St | lat=39.91252 | long=-86.26147 | price= | content=Indy's top restaurant for Cajun food. Sharing four locations, owned by a New Orleans native transplant, you'll feel like you're in the Crescent City. Large quantities of limited meals are offered up each day—and each is so tasty you'll be content. Pig out on great Cajun eats in a fun artsy environment. Vegan food available too. Hipsters and punks serve up your meals and sodas are refillable and mere $1. A great deal for a lot of enjoyable food. The chili cheese crawfish etouffe is their signature dish, but the jambalaya is also outstanding. Vegan friendly. }} *{{eat | name='''Sabor Venezolano'''| alt= | address=4930 Lafayette Rd Ste E | lat=39.84355 | long=-86.25452 | directions= | price= | content=Casual venue offering traditional Venezuelan eats, including a delicious cachapa. }} *{{eat | name='''Yummy Bowl'''| alt= | address=3451 W 86th St | lat=39.91134335840361 | long=-86.21812603800274 | directions= | price= | content=Home of local ''Chipotlé''-style Mongolian dishes. }} *{{eat | name='''Easley Winery'''| alt= | address=205 N College Ave | lat=39.769827 | long=-86.145158 | directions= | price= | lastedit=2016-03-03 | content=The oldest winery in downtown Indy. Free guided tours, wine tasting, and events. In warm months they feature after-work cocktails and live music. Check out the wine-shop featuring tons of wine and beer making goods. }} *{{eat | name='''Traders Point Creamery'''| alt= | address=9101 Moore Rd | lat=39.91754 | long=-86.28764 | directions= | price= | content=Indy's only grass-fed USDA organic dairy. They are always open with their self-serve dairy-shop (with a bucket you pay and take your change from—honesty basis), and at 4PM you can watch the cows get milked au naturel. Creamy milk, amazing yogurt (voted #1 by the American Cheese Society in 2005), ice cream, eggs and cheeses are all for sale. On the weekends they feature a farmers market and organic cafe. You can walk the grounds petting cows and chasing chickens. Fun for the family and eco-friendly folk. }} ==Connect== ===Television=== *'''WTHR 13''' NBC *'''WFYI 20''' PBS ===Newspapers=== *'''''Indianapolis Star''.''' The city's daily and Sunday paper. Formerly locally owned, now published by national syndicate Gannett. {{isPartOf|Nine-County Region}} {{hasDocent|Koavf}} qvm45d1h95pngbo38i4msmly64o55yy 5288996 5288995 2026-06-07T04:55:33Z MichaelGintz 2415262 /* Get around */ 5288996 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Indianapolisbanner-night.jpg|caption=The downtown canal at night|alt=A pathway next to the water with lights on either side}} '''Indianapolis''' is the capital of Indiana and also the state’s largest city. Efforts to beautify and modernize the city have brought Indianapolis into the 21st&nbsp;century as a world-class destination for everything from business meetings and trade conventions to backpackers making their way across the States. [[File:DT INDY 10-03-2010 JASSSMIT.JPG|alt=The Indianapolis skyline|thumb|Indianapolis began a project of downtown beautification in the 1990s—the skyline is seen here in 2010]] Indianapolis is widely hailed as the "Racing Capital of the World" because of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indy&nbsp;500 and Brickyard&nbsp;400 at the Brickyard, and as the "Amateur Sports Capital of America" for hosting the NCAA Hall of Champions. The city has several attractions outside of sports, including museums, a large zoo, over 100 ethnic restaurants, several arts and historic districts, and a revitalized downtown. Although Indy has been mocked with the epithet "India-noplace", visitors will encounter a mix of a large metropolitan city and a simple Midwestern community. You will find beautiful architecture, monuments, and pristine cornfields in the Circle City. ==Understand== [[File:Indianapolis-indiana-from-above.jpg|alt=An aerial photograph of downtown Indianapolis|thumb|Indianapolis' downtown is cut through by the non-navigable waters of the White River]] The population is roughly 882,000 (2022), making it the 16th largest city in the United States, and the metro area has about 2&nbsp;million (#34). When Indianapolis was founded, it was expected to be a "Great Inland Port", but the White River turned out to be non-navigable most of the year. The pay-off is that this desire for a port left the city with a gorgeous canal district, though the canal itself is only useful for recreational kayaks and paddleboats. Today, Indianapolis is known as the "Crossroads of America" due to its centrality in America's Interstate Highway System. In general, travel in and through Indianapolis is safe, clean, and logical. Visitors can always find something to do without becoming overwhelmed at a sprawling metropolis. In a few minutes, you can go from a sleepy and peaceful cornfield to a vibrant downtown. City planning is intelligible to outsiders with a grid system broken up by a few major diagonal streets, a large beltway loop (I-465), and a general lack of gridlock and traffic. ==Get in== ===By train=== * {{see | name='''Indianapolis Union Station'''| alt= | address=350 South Illinois Street | lat=39.7625 | long=-86.1602 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A historic, and underused, grand station that has the distinction of being the first Union station. Most of the building has now been converted to other uses, including a hotel. Trains depart from southern end of the station, there is a small waiting room as well as ticket offices. }} **{{go|name='''Amtrak'''|alt=|address=350 South Illinois Street|lat=NA|long=NA|directions=|price=|content=Operates trains throughout the United States of America.}} Route stopping in Indianapolis: *** '''Cardinal''' operating three trips weekly between Chicago and New York City. ==Get around== [[File:Indianapolis-downtown-gintz-2.png|thumb|upright=1.8|Downtown Indianapolis]] Outside of the walkable Downtown and some Cultural Districts, you'll need a vehicle to navigate the urban sprawl. The public bus system is fairly clean and efficient but routes are sometimes complex, and substantial portions of the metro area are inaccessible. Outside of peak hours, waits can be prohibitively long. Bike lanes alongside major roads have been constructed in the early 2010s, so cyclists will be sharing the road. ===By bike=== The Indianapolis Cultural Trail was built through several years in the early 21st century and takes riders through downtown providing signs with Indianapolis history; public art dots many stops and you will be guided past several restaurants and local businesses. Indiana Pacers Bikeshare provides free bike-sharing rides for up to 30 minutes at a time for all Marion County residents. For non-residents, ordinary bikes are $2 per ride + $0.20 per minute, and e-bikes are $5 + $0.25 per minute. With a bike you can easily navigate the area in and around downtown Indianapolis, including the following neighborhoods of note: [[File:Fountain Square Theatre in Indianapolis.jpg|alt=|thumb|The Fountain Square district is built around the historic Fountain Square Theatre. You can now get barbeque and go duckpin bowling in the structure.]] *{{marker|type=buy|name='''Mass Ave'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A hop skip and a jump from the Circle, Mass Ave has gone through an amazing rebirth to become one of the coolest shopping areas in town full of local shops. *{{marker|type=buy|name='''Fountain Square'''|lat=NA|long=NA}}. A historical area about a mile from downtown Indy, to the Southeast. Mainly comprising of antique, thrift and art shops. ==Enjoy== ===Landmarks=== [[File:Downtown Indianapolis panorama, 2015.jpg|alt=|thumb|The sun rising over downtown]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Capitol'''| alt= | address=200 W Washington St | lat=39.7689 | long=-86.1625 | directions=just west of Monument Circle | price=Free. Vehicles can be parked in nearby garages or at metered spots. Automobiles that violate the metered time policy risk receiving a ticket and having their automobiles towed | wikipedia=Indiana Statehouse | image=Capitol del Estado de Indiana, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 04.jpg | wikidata=Q1661319 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Completed in 1888, this is the hub for Indiana's state government, housing the Governor's office, the state legislature (State Senate and Indiana General Assembly) and the State Supreme Court. The first state capital was in the Southern Indiana town of Corydon, and in 1825 it was moved to Indianapolis. Featuring Italian Renaissance, Greek, and Corinthian design, the building is made from primarily of Indiana limestone. Look up while in the Rotunda to see the amazing German stained glass window, take a guided or personal tour, or observe the government at work. }} *{{see | name='''Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument'''| alt= | address=1 Monument Cir | lat=39.7687 | long=-86.1579 | directions=The center of the city | price=Fees for elevator: adults $3.00, elderly (65 and over): free, youngsters (12 and under): no charge. Free for US military personnel and veterans. There is no fee to walk the steps. During business hours, elevator tickets are available for purchase at the Monument Gift Shop | wikipedia=Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument (Indianapolis) | image=Monument Circle, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.jpg | wikidata=Q1748884 | lastedit=2024-10-4 | content=This is the well-known monument in the center of the city. It is only fifteen feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty, having been built in 1902. The monument's sculpted depictions of gory Civil War fights and emancipated slaves are powerful. With Miss Liberty facing south, she defends the north from the confederate. The Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War museum is located in the basement, and visitors can ride the tower to the top for a view of the city. The grounds on the Monument are a wonderful representation of the city itself; they combine the calm of quietly roaring water and verdant grass with the energy of Downtown. It's also a great place to people watch. Additionally, there's a tiny gift shop. William Henry Harrison, the first Governor of the Indiana Territory and the United States President for a single month, is depicted on a statue at the base. The south steps are closed for renovation until November 2025, costing $10 million. }} *{{see | name='''Indiana War Memorial & Museum'''| alt= | address=55 E Michigan St | lat=39.7735 | long=-86.157 | directions=Slightly north, Downtown | price=Admission to the museum is free | wikidata=Q2439742 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=This pillared structure has a war museum, an elaborate auditorium, and a shrine honoring World War I troops who lost their lives. }} *{{see | name='''Scottish Rite Cathedral'''| alt= | address=650 N Meridian St | lat=39.7762 | long=-86.1585 | directions=slightly north, Downtown | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish Rite Cathedral (Indianapolis) | image=Catedral de tradición escocesa, Indianápolis, Estados Unidos, 2012-10-22, DD 02.jpg | wikidata=Q7437949 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=It is the largest Scottish Rite cathedral in the world and a masterpiece of architecture. Take a tour, investigate the enormous pipe organ, the floating dance floor, the hand-crafted art glass windows, discover the mystery surrounding Freemasonry, and stop by the cafe for a bite to eat. }} *{{see | name='''The American Legion National Headquarters'''| alt= | address=700 N Pennsylvania St | lat=39.777167 | long=-86.155738 | directions=northside of downtown | price=Free or paid parking | wikidata=Q468865 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Situated in the heart of downtown Indy with a beautiful mall that reminds one of D.C. Check out the museum that features hundreds of World War I & II posters and artifacts, a diorama of Jessica Lynch's rescue, explore the grounds and learn about the Legion's history. }} *{{see | name='''Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial'''| alt= | address=650 W Washington St | lat=39.7703 | long=-86.169 | directions=westside of Downtown | price=Free | wikidata=Q6805056 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=Monument that is part of White River State Park that pays tribute to over 3,000 Medal of Honor recipients. Ranges from Civil War through modern day clashes. It is made up of 27 curved glass walls, each {{ft|7–10}} high, and etched with the names. It's quite breathtaking—especially at night. }} * {{see | name='''Indiana 9/11 Memorial'''| alt= | address=421 W Ohio St | lat=39.7704 | long=-86.1657 | directions= | price=Free | wikipedia=Indiana 9/11 Memorial | image=Project 9-11 Indianapolis.jpg | wikidata=Q7248980 | lastedit=2024-01-16 | content= }} ===Museums=== [[File:Indiana War Memorial at night.jpg|alt=|thumb|300px|The colossal Indiana War Memorial]] *{{see | name='''Indiana State Museum'''| alt= | lat=39.769 | long=-86.1693 | directions=Westside of Downtown | price=Adult $19, senior (60+) $17, youth $13, child under 3 free | wikipedia=Indiana State Museum | wikidata=Q6023430 | lastedit=2024-09-20 | content=One of the most exquisite residences in the nation is the new state museum. Discover Indiana's history, from dinosaurs and fossil discoveries to the American Civil War, World War II, and the present. Discover a hall honoring well-known Hoosiers, take advantage of the IMAX theater and special events, and stroll about White River State Park's grounds to see the sculpture garden honoring Indiana's counties. A must-watch. The little gift shop offers plush toys, gourmet beverages, unusual candies, and trinkets with Indiana themes. With its seasonal menus and freshly made soups, salads, and sandwiches, the Farmers Market Café offers a menu that pays homage to Indiana's past as a supplier of local, fresh produce. The famed chicken velvet soup is served at the historic L.S. Ayres Tea Room. }} *{{see | name='''James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home & Visitor Center'''| alt= | address=528 Lockerbie St | lat=39.773 | long=-86.1475 | directions=eastside of Downtown | price=Adult $10, student #1, children 6 and under free | wikidata=Q6145403 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=See the house where the renowned writer and poet spent the latter part of his life. "The Children's Poet" is how Riley is recognized. One of the best maintained Victorian homes in the nation, the house has been featured in ''Architectural Digest''. The house has never undergone renovations; every piece of furniture, up to the carpet, is original and dates back to 1916. See his possessions, collection of antiques, and background by taking a tour. }} *{{see | name='''Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site'''| alt= | address=1230 N Delaware St | lat=39.784 | long=-86.1543 | directions=Northside of Downtown | price=Adult $16, veteran $15, senior $15, college student $11, child $11, pre-school free | wikidata=Q4888783 | lastedit=2024-01-17 | content=The only Indianan to become U.S. president to date, holding office for one term (1889–1893). See this hero of the Civil War's stunning 1875 home, constructed in the Italianate Victorian style. It has three stories and is crammed with personal items, artwork, political mementos, and antiques. There is a First Ladies display in the carriage house at the back. They host entertaining events all year long, many of which feature outstanding reenactments of historical individuals from Indiana. A naturalization ceremony, tours of Victorian murder mysteries, and the always entertaining croquet competition are all held there. }} *{{see | name='''Newfields'''| alt=Indianapolis Museum of Art | address=4000 Michigan Rd | lat=39.8259 | long=-86.1855 | directions=10&nbsp;minutes north of Downtown | price=Adult $20, child 5 & under free, youth 6-17 $13, Access Pass $2 (certain areas of the IMA campus are free, including the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres, the IMA Café, Museum Store, and Five Brushstrokes) | wikipedia=Indianapolis Museum of Art | image=Indy-Art-Museum-Szmurlo.jpg | wikidata=Q1117704 | content=Reopened following a multi-million dollar renovation it's one of the most beautiful buildings in the country for fine art. Founded in 1883, this is one of the oldest art museums in the country, boasting over 50,000 pieces of art and an amazing public art library. Exhibits include Contemporary Art, European Art, Asian Art, African Art, Textile Art, and more. Rotating and traveling exhibits are abundant. Experience hands-on exhibits where you can create your own art, walk the amazing grounds exploring the sculptures, gardens, and homes, shop at the museum store and eat and drink at the IMA Cafe and Wolfgang Puck's namesake restaurant—this is the city he got his start in. On Thursdays and Fridays 5–9PM, the museum has a special "happy hour" for hip and artsy socialites at Puck's featuring cocktails and hors d'oeurves. Also on the grounds are the Oldfields–Lilly House & Gardens, the former estate of the Lillys. They are located on {{convert|26|acre|ha}} grounds with a 22-room mansion, gardens, and museum. }} * {{see | name='''Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library'''| alt= | address=543 Indiana Avenue | lat=39.7725 | long=-86.163333 | directions= | price=Adults $12, seniors/educators/military $10, students $8. Free on first M of each month | wikidata=Q6447107 | lastedit=2024-10-04 | content=A museum dedicated to literary and cultural contributions of author and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut. }} *{{see | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum'''| alt= | address=4790 W 16th St | lat=39.7902 | long=-86.2306 | directions=Speedway, Westside | price=$10 adult, $5 child, 5 and under free | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum | image=IMS HOF Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q6023901 | content=The IMA is the home of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, the Indianapolis 500. On the IMS grounds you will find the Museum which houses the world's largest collection of racing, classic, and antique cars. Check out 30 of the Indy 500 winner's cars, a 20-minute film about the history of the race, a souvenir shop and cafe. If you would like to see more of the track facilities, you also can pay a few bucks to ride in a bus around the actual race track (at about 40&nbsp;miles or 65&nbsp;km an hour). Or, for the more adventurous souls, you can try the Indy Racing Experience Driving Program where you can ride in a 2-seater Indy Car and experience speeds around the track up to 180&nbsp;miles or 300&nbsp;km an hour. }} [[File:Indiana State House 2.jpg|thumb|250px|The Indiana State House]] ===Festivals and events=== [[File:Indianapolis mini-marathon at the Motor Speedway, 2018.jpg|alt=A row of runners|thumb|Runners in the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon reaching the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2018. This is one of several preludes to the Indy 500.]] *''May'', {{listing | name='''The Indianapolis 500'''| alt= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=One of the largest sporting events in the world. The westside of the city and Speedway gets swamped and if you like big crowds, loud cars, and tailgating, this is for you. One of several events leading up to it is the largest mini-marathon in the world, so if you're extra ambitious, come early and run for {{mi|13.1}} (or a more modest but still impressive {{km|5}}). }} *''Early-Mid August'', {{listing | name='''Indiana State Fair'''| alt= | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The biggest summer event in the state. A trip to Indiana isn't complete without a trip to the fair. Animals, crafts, art, rides, dancing, education, environmentalism, Hoosier Pride and food. They also have live music and concerts. Prairie Home Companion comes every other year. Although many locals usually complain about the food being largely overpriced. }} *''Early August'', {{listing | name='''Gen Con'''| alt= | address=Indiana Convention Center, 100 South Capitol Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | price= | content=The "best four days of gaming" in the world comes to Indianapolis every year. Thousands congregate from all over the world to play games of all types, meet sci-fi and fantasy film stars, purchase gamer goods and hang with others. The freakiest time of the year in downtown Indy. }} ===Parks=== [[File:C4241-Indianapolis-Canal.jpg|alt=|thumb|Downtown's Canal District reserves a plot of land for Military Park]] '''Indy Parks''' features information and links regarding all Indianapolis public parks. Below is an example of some of the city's finest, which attract visitors and locals alike. *{{see | name='''Eagle Creek Park'''| alt= | address=7840 W 56th St | lat=39.854505 | long=-86.301777 | directions=Accessible from I-465 | price= | lastedit=2025-06-01 | content=On the west side of Indy, this huge park boasts many amenities, including a nature center, fitness course, fishing areas, and bird sanctuary. Fill your day with sailing, bird watching, fishing, rowing, hiking, swimming, ziplining. Only 10&nbsp;minutes from downtown. Admission: $7/car for non-Marion county Residents. }} *{{see | name='''Garfield Park'''| alt= | address=2345 Pagoda Dr | lat=39.734213 | long=-86.1519037 | directions= | price= | content=Oldest park in Indianapolis, established in 1881. Home of the Garfield Park Conservatory, which houses {{convert|10,000|ft2|m2}} of plants from all over the world, and the Sunken Gardens, built in 1916, which consist of {{convert|3|acres|ha}} of European classical formal gardens, which change based on the season. Other features include an arts center, MacAllister Center for the Performing Arts, swimming pool and aquatic center, picnic shelters, pagoda, tennis courts, softball diamond, numerous trails, horse shoe courts, playgrounds, sledding hill and countless other park activities. Free for most activities. Free parking. }} [[File:Skiles Test Nature Park.jpg|alt=Trees turning shade in autumn|thumb|Indianapolis has state parks, conservancies, small reserved areas downtown, and the natural resource area of Skiles Test Nature Park (pictured here in autumn).]] *{{see | name='''Holliday Park'''| alt= | address=6363 Spring Mill Rd | lat=39.871071 | long=-86.1634226 | directions= | price= | content=One of the oldest and coolest parks in town. Planted right on the White River with swamps, ponds, wildflower gardens, birdwatching sanctuaries, a renovated nature center, sculpture garden, and countless wildlife and plant life. In the warm months parents take their kids to play on the best playground in the city, and locals picnic, lay out, read and host family gatherings at the extensive parkland. A great place to wade and collect rocks too. 95 acres of trails and woodland, a must see. }} *{{see | name='''White River State Park'''| alt= | address=801 W Washington St | lat=39.770778 | long=-86.167145 | directions= | price=Free and paid parking | content=Home to the Indianapolis Zoo, White River Gardens, Victory Field, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art, Indiana State Museum, IMAX Theater, and NCAA Hall of Champions. It also has The Lawn near the river, which is host to concerts during each summer. Central Canal is also located within the park. Park passes are available for purchase, entrance to all 7 of the main attractions is included in the pass. }} ===Art=== *{{see | name='''Indiana Repertory Theatre'''| alt= | lat=39.7675 | long=-86.1611 | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Repertory Theatre | wikidata=Q6023385 | content=Some of the nation's finest actors perform in this architectural masterpiece of a theater. Two theaters provide different types of performances, and their famous version of ''A Christmas Carol'' is a classic. Be sure to check out their Shakespeare performances. Dress up in your Sunday best and see a matinee to save some bucks. Cocktails are served. All ages. }} ===Sports=== *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Motor Speedway''' | lat=NA | long=NA | alt= | email= | address=4790 W 16th St | directions= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Motor Speedway | image=Indianapolis Motor Speedway (15982572368) (cropped).jpg | wikidata=Q172732 | content=It is Indy's pride and joy sporting landmark. Several motor races take place here, most notably the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400 and Indycar Grand Prix. Check out the museum, or a race depending on your visit. Ticket prices aren't cheap to the main affairs, but just attending one of the many practices or qualifications during the racing season (May–Sep) is well worth the experience. A must-see when visiting Indy, for race lovers or not. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Pacers'''| alt= | address=125 S Penn Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Pacers | wikidata=Q170329 | content=NBA member, the Pacers can be seen live at their home court November–April. }} *{{do | name='''Indiana Fever'''| alt= | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=Gainbridge Fieldhouse | price= | wikipedia=Indiana Fever | wikidata=Q1631017 | content=A member of the WNBA, the Fever plays from June–September, and tickets were quite a bit cheaper than their NBA counterparts before the 2024 arrival of college basketball icon Caitlin Clark. In Clark's first season, the Fever set new WNBA single-season records for average and total attendance, and even outdrew the Pacers. The team, which shares ownership with the Pacers, also plays in Gainbridge Fieldhouse. }} [[File:LucasOil.JPG|thumb|right|Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Colts]] *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Colts'''| alt= | address=500 S Capitol Ave | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price= | wikipedia=Indianapolis Colts | wikidata=Q193753 | content=The NFL's Indianapolis Colts football season runs from August–January. The Colts play home games at Lucas Oil Stadium, a retractable-roof stadium that opened in 2008, which hosts many other sporting events, competitions, and concert events throughout the year. }} *{{do | name='''Indianapolis Indians'''| alt= | address=501 W Maryland St | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | price=$11–30 | wikipedia=Indianapolis Indians | image=Victory Field.jpg | wikidata=Q2748815 | content=The AAA minor league affiliate for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Their home stadium, Victory Field, has been deemed the best minor league baseball stadium in the country. Pack a picnic and sit in the outfield next to the famous teepee during the game (and catch a few balls if you're lucky) or get a seat in the stands. }} ===Bars=== Bars close at 3AM; 12:30AM on Sundays. Alcohol can be bought in stores on Sundays from Noon to 8 PM. Age requirements vary and are listed below. *{{see | name='''Alley Cat'''| alt= | address=6267 Carrollton Ave | lat=39.86944 | long=-86.14459 | directions= | osm=no | price= | content=A dive bar in Broad Ripple, down an alley. No windows, smoke-ridden, and open at 7AM for breakfast till 3AM for dinner. A great jukebox, legendary bar staff, numerous pool tables, and the hardest drinks in town. Sometimes bands play too. A place you know will never change. Vegetarian friendly. 21+ }} [[File:Mass Ave.jpg|alt=A large painting of Vonnegut on the side of a building|thumb|Hometown hero Kurt Vonnegut is honored by a large painting on Mass Ave. blocks from the Rathskeller designed by his family.]] *{{see | name='''Kellerbar at the Rathskeller'''| alt= | address=401 E Michigan St | lat=39.77377 | long=-86.15031 | directions= | price= | content=Located inside the Rathskeller German restaurant, this is a place to drink beers from around the world and sop it all up with German food. During the warm months, this is one of the busiest bars in town. Get there early to enjoy a quieter beer or two; the bar opens up in the afternoon and you can enjoy their in-house brew (the Dunkel is particularly good) outside in the Biergarten or inside in the cozy oak bar that emulates a German castle. Later in the evening on the weekends, cover bands rock out in the garden and drunk college students go wild. }} *{{see | name='''Metro'''| alt= | address=707 Massachusetts Ave | lat=39.77649 | long=-86.14661 | directions= | price= | content=A laid back, casual environment with a pub downstairs and a modern pool hall upstairs. Their karaoke is legendary—featuring people who really can sing. Upstairs they also feature a sex/bdsm shop for kinky goods. Speaking of kink, food is served. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''The Vogue'''| alt= | address=6259 N College Ave | lat=39.86922 | long=-86.14586 | directions= | price= | content=A movie theater built in the 1930s, in the 1970s it opened up as a music venue and nightclub. Now, it's the place for college kids to get wasted on the weekends and dance to top 40 and retro tunes. You'll also find great live music and past acts include Cheap Trick, Johnny Cash, David Byrne, The White Stripes, Common, Sean Paul, The Faint, VHS Or Beta, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams III, The Black Keys and more. Cover varies. 21+ }} *{{see | name='''Slippery Noodle Inn'''| alt= | lat=39.76164 | long=-86.15883 | directions= | price= | content=The oldest bar in Indiana since 1850. It used to be a brothel, and it's now the best blues bar in the city. Steaks, homemade soup, baked potatoes, sandwiches and subs are the starts of the menu with a classic bar menu to boot. Beer, champagne, wine, and of course—hard liquor is poured with pride and the blues is local and national/international acts. There are still bullet holes in the wall from brawls in the 1800s. Dis is it. 21+ }} ===Other Food and Drink=== *{{eat | name='''Yats'''| alt= | address=5650 W 86th St | lat=39.91252 | long=-86.26147 | price= | content=Indy's top restaurant for Cajun food. Sharing four locations, owned by a New Orleans native transplant, you'll feel like you're in the Crescent City. Large quantities of limited meals are offered up each day—and each is so tasty you'll be content. Pig out on great Cajun eats in a fun artsy environment. Vegan food available too. Hipsters and punks serve up your meals and sodas are refillable and mere $1. A great deal for a lot of enjoyable food. The chili cheese crawfish etouffe is their signature dish, but the jambalaya is also outstanding. Vegan friendly. }} *{{eat | name='''Sabor Venezolano'''| alt= | address=4930 Lafayette Rd Ste E | lat=39.84355 | long=-86.25452 | directions= | price= | content=Casual venue offering traditional Venezuelan eats, including a delicious cachapa. }} *{{eat | name='''Yummy Bowl'''| alt= | address=3451 W 86th St | lat=39.91134335840361 | long=-86.21812603800274 | directions= | price= | content=Home of local ''Chipotlé''-style Mongolian dishes. }} *{{eat | name='''Easley Winery'''| alt= | address=205 N College Ave | lat=39.769827 | long=-86.145158 | directions= | price= | lastedit=2016-03-03 | content=The oldest winery in downtown Indy. Free guided tours, wine tasting, and events. In warm months they feature after-work cocktails and live music. Check out the wine-shop featuring tons of wine and beer making goods. }} *{{eat | name='''Traders Point Creamery'''| alt= | address=9101 Moore Rd | lat=39.91754 | long=-86.28764 | directions= | price= | content=Indy's only grass-fed USDA organic dairy. They are always open with their self-serve dairy-shop (with a bucket you pay and take your change from—honesty basis), and at 4PM you can watch the cows get milked au naturel. Creamy milk, amazing yogurt (voted #1 by the American Cheese Society in 2005), ice cream, eggs and cheeses are all for sale. On the weekends they feature a farmers market and organic cafe. You can walk the grounds petting cows and chasing chickens. Fun for the family and eco-friendly folk. }} ==Connect== ===Television=== *'''WTHR 13''' NBC *'''WFYI 20''' PBS ===Newspapers=== *'''''Indianapolis Star''.''' The city's daily and Sunday paper. Formerly locally owned, now published by national syndicate Gannett. {{isPartOf|Nine-County Region}} {{hasDocent|Koavf}} eka8kckgbie86u7t1gpsa31wo23ptf4 2 218129 5288836 2026-06-06T12:23:50Z Enes Stone 2418954 Creating user page with Conflict-of-Interest disclosure 5288836 wikitext text/x-wiki I am affiliated with kakapo.travel, a travel-safety information resource. I edit travel-safety topics and disclose this connection per the project COI guidance. For any edit involving my site I use the Talk page and defer to neutral editors. oif47h65wqi52ccbavedckwkfss5yto 0 218130 5288874 2026-06-06T14:44:47Z ~2026-33632-07 2419062 Created page with "__NOTOC__ {{pagebanner|Maintenance Wikivoyage banner.jpg|notoc=true}} This page brings together all maintenance-related items and statistics. Mouse over the <abbr title="Tooltip">underlined</abbr> words for help. {| | {|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;width:100%; border:1px solid #AAAAAA;" |- ! <big>Pages and tools</big> ! <big>[[Special:SpecialPages|Special pages]]</big> ! <big>[[:Category:Articles needing attention|Maintenance categories]]</big> ! <big>Wik..." 5288874 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ {{pagebanner|Maintenance Wikivoyage banner.jpg|notoc=true}} This page brings together all maintenance-related items and statistics. Mouse over the <abbr title="Tooltip">underlined</abbr> words for help. {| | {|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;width:100%; border:1px solid #AAAAAA;" |- ! <big>Pages and tools</big> ! <big>[[Special:SpecialPages|Special pages]]</big> ! <big>[[:Category:Articles needing attention|Maintenance categories]]</big> ! <big>[[Wikivoyage:Template index|Standard templates]]</big> |- | style="text-align:center;vertical-align:top;width:25%;" | <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0" style="clear:both; width:100%;"><tr><td style=""><div style="overflow:auto; width:100%;"> {| style="text-align:left; vertical-align:top; width:100%;" |- |'''Wikivoyage pages''' <div style="font-size:smaller;"> * [[Wikivoyage:User rights nominations|<abbr title="This is the page for submitting and discussing nominations for administrator.">Admin nominations</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Cleanup|<abbr title="This page is for organizing specific cleanup tasks.">Cleanup</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Community portal|<abbr title="The central place for working together on Wikivoyage.">Community portal</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Collaboration of the month|<abbr title="Candidates for Collaboration of the Month">CotM candidates</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates|<abbr title="Candidates for Destination of the Month">DotM candidates</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Discover|<abbr title="Queue and suggestions for factoids for the Discover section of the Main Page.">Discover</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Expeditions|<abbr title="This is the index page for Expeditions, our specific, task-oriented projects for improving our guides.">Expeditions</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Pages needing images|<abbr title="This page contains a list of pages which have no images yet.">Pages needing images</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Policies|<abbr title="This is the index/summary page for Wikivoyage's policies and guidelines.">Policies</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Requests for comment|<abbr title="This is a place Wikivoyagers can request more attention for a discussion or issue that might otherwise go unnoticed">Requests for comment</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Requested articles|<abbr title="Suggestions for articles to be created.">Requested articles</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Requests for maps|<abbr title="Requests for custom maps to be created.">Requested maps</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Requests for phrasebooks|<abbr title="Suggestions for phrasebooks to be created for other languages.">Requested phrasebooks</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Roadmap|<abbr title="This page is a central place for tracking certain ideas and having discussions regarding new features for Wikivoyage in the future.">Roadmap</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Script nominations|<abbr title="This page is for nominations and discussions for new scripts/bots.">Script nominations</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Star nominations|<abbr title="This page is for nominations and discussions on promoting articles to star status.">Star nominations</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Votes for deletion|<abbr title="This page is for proposing and discussing the deletion of articles. There are currently {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Vfd}} pages nominated.">Votes for deletion ({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Vfd}})</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:World cities|<abbr title="Lists of significant world cities which should have articles on Wikivoyage.">World cities</abbr>]] </div> |- |'''<abbr title="MediaWiki pages can only be altered by administrators.">MediaWiki pages</abbr>''' <div style="font-size:smaller;"> * [[MediaWiki:Spam-blacklist|<abbr title="Local list of spammy URLs which are blocked from being added to our articles.">Spam blacklist</abbr>]] * [[MediaWiki:Spam-whitelist|<abbr title="Local exception list of URLs which are on the global spam blacklist but which have been approved for addition to our articles.">Spam whitelist</abbr>]] * [[MediaWiki:Sitenotice|<abbr title="The site notice appear at the top of all pages, used for sitewide announcements.">Site notice</abbr>]] </div> |- |'''<abbr title="These external websites have various useful tools and information.">External pages/tools</abbr>''' <div style="font-size:smaller;"> * <abbr title="Listings with invalid URL/email/latitude/longitude. Updated every two weeks.">[http://wvpoi.batalex.ru/download/listings/wikivoyage-listings-en-latest.validation-report.html Malformed listings]</abbr> * <abbr title="This map shows the locations of all destinations which have an article on Wikivoyage.">[https://wikivoyage.toolforge.org/w/artmap.php?lang=en WV article map]</abbr> * [[meta:Wikivoyage|<abbr title="The Wikivoyage page on Meta contains some statistics and general information regarding the project.">meta:Wikivoyage</abbr>]] * [[meta:Wikivoyage/Lounge|<abbr title="The Wikivoyage Lounge on Meta is the place for discussing issues which affect all language versions of Wikivoyage.">meta:Lounge</abbr>]] * [[meta:Wikivoyage/Summit|<abbr title="The Summit page contain monthly reports from each language version.">meta:Summit</abbr>]] * <abbr title="Phabricator is our resource for reporting bugs and errors and for requesting new features.">[[:phabricator:|Phabricator]]</abbr> * <abbr title="This page has a wealth of statistical and comparative information regarding all language versions of Wikivoyage.">[https://stats.wikimedia.org/v2/#/all-projects Multilingual statistics]</abbr> * <abbr title="This is a simple tool for finding pages with two or more given categories.">[http://tools.wmflabs.org/catscan2/quick_intersection.php Category intersection]</abbr> * <abbr title="This is a more complex tool for finding pages with given combinations of categories and templates.">[{{Catscancall}} CatScan 2.0]</abbr> * <abbr title="This is slightly buggy tool for conversion of unformatted listings to our templated formats. Always check results carefully before using them in an article.">[https://github.com/ml31415/wvtagconvert Listing converter]</abbr> * <abbr title="Free Image Search Tool - This page offers a variety of search possibilities related to images.">[http://tools.wmflabs.org/fist/fist.php?doit=1&language=en&project=wikivoyage&data=category_name_here&datatype=categories&params%5Bcatdepth%5D=0&params%5Brandom%5D=50&params%5Bll_max%5D=5&params%5Bcommons_max%5D=5&params%5Bflickr_max%5D=5&params%5Binclude_flickr_id%5D=1&params%5Bwts_max%5D=5&params%5Bgimp_max%5D=5&params%5Besp_max%5D=5&params%5Besp_skip_flickr%5D=1&params%5Bgeograph_max%5D=5&params%5Bforarticles%5D=noimage&params%5Blessthan_images%5D=3&params%5Bdefault_thumbnail_size%5D=&params%5Bjpeg%5D=1&params%5Bpng%5D=1&params%5Bgif%5D=1&params%5Bsvg%5D=1&params%5Bogg%5D=1&params%5Bmin_width%5D=80&params%5Bmin_height%5D=80 FIST]</abbr> * <abbr title="This page gives an overview of a given users editing behavior.">[https://xtools.wmflabs.org/ec/en.wikivoyage.org X's edit counter]</abbr> * <abbr title="A tool which helps to quickly create dynamic district overview maps">[https://rene78.github.io/Wikivoyage-Districtifier/ Wikivoyage Districtifier]</abbr> * <abbr title="A tool to convert one or multiple GeoJSON polygons into a mapmask or vice versa.">[https://rene78.github.io/mapmask-geojson-converter/ Mapmask ↔ GeoJSON Converter]</abbr> * <abbr title="Can be used to quickly identify unlinked articles, for example by searching for articles that contain “Yosemite” but do not link to Yosemite National Park.">[http://mountaininterval.org/wikivoyage/seo.html Wikivoyage SEO Query Tool]</abbr> </div> |} </div></td></tr></table> | style="text-align:center;vertical-align:top;width:25%;" | <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0" style="clear:both; width:100%;"><tr><td style=""><div style="overflow:auto; width:100%;"> {| style="text-align:left; vertical-align:top; width:100%;" |'''General'''<br> <div style="font-size:smaller;"> * [[Special:RecentChanges|<abbr title="Patrol recent changes on the wiki.">Recent changes</abbr>]] * [[Special:Statistics|<abbr title="Statistics on numbers of pages, edits, and users.">Statistics</abbr>]] * [[Special:Log|<abbr title="Logs for various events on the wiki, including user creation, page deletion, moves, protections, blocks, and more.">Public logs</abbr>]] * [[Special:AbuseLog|<abbr title="Log of edits which have tripped an abuse filter.">Abuse log</abbr>]] * [[Special:LinkSearch|<abbr title="Search for pages which include a given external URL.">External link search</abbr>]] * [[Special:AllMessages|<abbr title="Index of MediaWiki pages which create the interface text of the wiki. 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These links may be intentional (i.e. ``for other uses, see...) or they may be accidental, in which case they should be corrected to point to the intended page.">Pages linking to disambig</abbr>]] * [[Special:UncategorizedPages|<abbr title="Pages listed here have no category, which means they lack various templates such as <nowiki>{{IsPartOf}}, {{geo}}</nowiki>, and status templates.">Uncategorized pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:UnconnectedPages|<abbr title="This list contains pages which have not been connected to a corresponding data item on Wikidata.">Pages w/o WD item</abbr>]] * [[Special:ProtectedPages|<abbr title="Click to see the list of protected pages.">Protected pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:DisambiguationPages|<abbr title="Click to see the full list of disambiguation pages.">Disambig pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:PrefixIndex|<abbr title="View lists of pages by prefix.">Pages by prefix</abbr>]] * [[Special:PagesWithProp|<abbr title="View lists of pages which contain magic words such as <nowiki>__NOTOC__, __NOINDEX__</nowiki>, etc.">Pages by property</abbr>]] * [[Special:MostLinkedPages|<abbr title="This list shows the pages which are most linked to from other pages.">Most linked pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:MostRevisions|<abbr title="Click to see the pages with the most edits.">Most edited pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:MostCategories|<abbr title="This list shows pages with the most categories. Pages with many categories are likely tagged with multiple maintenance categories and may have serious problems which need to be fixed.">Pages with most cats</abbr>]] * [[Special:ComparePages|<abbr title="This is a tool which compares two pages.">Compare pages</abbr>]] </div> |- |'''[[Special:ListRedirects|<abbr title="Click to see the full list of redirect pages.">Redirects</abbr>]]''' <div style="font-size: smaller;> * [[Special:DoubleRedirects|<abbr title="Double redirects are redirects which point to another redirect. They should be corrected to point to the final target of redirection.">Double redirects</abbr>]] * [[Special:BrokenRedirects|<abbr title="Broken redirects are redirects which point to non-existent pages. They should be corrected to point to legitimate pages, or if none exists, consider nominating for deletion.">Broken redirects</abbr>]] </div> |- |'''[[Special:Categories|<abbr title="Click to see the full list of categories.">Categories</abbr>]]''' <div style="font-size: smaller;"> * [[Special:WantedCategories|<abbr title="Wanted categories are non-existent categories which have members. Consider whether the category should be created, or whether the inclusion tags should be removed from the member articles.">Wanted categories</abbr>]] * [[Special:UncategorizedCategories|<abbr title="Categories listed here do not belong to any other category and are thus not part of the category tree.">Uncategorized categories</abbr>]] * [[Special:UnusedCategories|<abbr title="These categories have no members. Many of these are region articles which simply don't have any children articles yet. If there are other types of categories, consider whether they are useful or need to be nominated for deletion.">Unused categories</abbr>]] * [[Special:MostLinkedCategories|<abbr title="Click to see the list of most popular categories.">Most linked categories</abbr>]] * [[Special:CategoryTree|<abbr title="This page shows a given category in tree form.">Category tree</abbr>]] </div> |- |'''[[:Category:Templates|<abbr title="Click to see the category of MediaWiki templates.">Templates</abbr>]]''' <div style="font-size:smaller;"> * [[Special:WantedTemplates|<abbr title="This category contains non-existent templates which are called from at least one article. Consider whether the template call can be removed from the respective articles.">Wanted templates</abbr>]] * [[Special:UncategorizedTemplates|<abbr title="These templates do not belong to any category.">Uncategorized templates</abbr>]] * [[Special:UnusedTemplates|<abbr title="These templates are not used in any articles. Some of these may need to be considered for deletion, but be carefuly, because some templates are intended for substitution only, and thus appear in this list as well.">Unused templates</abbr>]] * [[Special:TemplateSandbox|<abbr title="This is a tool for previewing sandbox versions of templates.">Template sandbox</abbr>]] * [[Special:ExpandTemplates|<abbr title="This special page takes text and expands all templates in it recursively.">Expand templates</abbr>]] </div> |- |'''[[Special:ListFiles|<abbr title="Click to see the full list of files uploaded to the local wiki.">Files</abbr>]]''' <div style="font-size:smaller;"> * [[Special:NewFiles|<abbr title="Click to see the list of new file uploads.">New files</abbr>]] * [[Special:UncategorizedFiles|<abbr title="These files do not belong to any category.">Uncategorized files</abbr>]] * [[Special:UnusedFiles|<abbr title="This files are not used on any page. Consider whether they should be deleted or moved to Commons.">Unused files</abbr>]] * [[Special:WantedFiles|<abbr title="This page lists non-existent file titles which are linked to from at least one page. Consider whether to remove such red links.">Wanted files</abbr>]] * [[Special:MostLinkedFiles|<abbr title="Click to see the list of most-used files.">Most linked files</abbr>]] * [[Special:GlobalUsage|<abbr title="Search global file usage.">Global file usage</abbr>]] * [[Special:FileDuplicateSearch|<abbr title="Search for duplicate files.">Duplicate file search</abbr>]] </div> |} </div></td></tr></table> | style="text-align:center;vertical-align:top;width:25%;" | <small><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0" style="clear:both; width:100%;"><tr><td style=""><div style="overflow:auto; width:100%;"> {| class="sortable" border="1" style="border:1px solid darkgray; border-collapse:collapse; width:100%; text-align:left;" ! style="text-align:center;" | Problem ! style="text-align:center;" data-sort-type="number" | # {{/mcat | | title=Banner to WD | category=Banner missing from Wikidata | mouseover=These pages have a banner, but the corresponding Wikidata item's banner property is empty. | template=Pagebanner | abbrev=ba }}{{/mcat | | title=Banner image | category=Has default banner | mouseover=Pages in this category need a custom banner. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcat | | title=Blacklisted links | category=Pages containing blacklisted links | mouseover=Pages in this category contain one or more links which appear on the MediaWiki blacklist. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcat | | title=Broken image | category=Pages with broken file links | mouseover=Pages in this category contain one or more links to image files which do not exist. Please replace the image (preferable) or remove it. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcat | | title=Cat-less region | category=Regions with no category | mouseover=No corresponding category exists for regions in this category. Consider whether coverage may be too fine-grained and/or redirection would be more appropriate. If child articles under the region have incorrect IsPartOf parameters, fix them and create the corresponding category. | template=Outlineregion | abbrev=or }}{{/mcat | | title=City-ify | category=Move listings to cities | mouseover=These region articles contain listings which should be moved to their respective city articles. | template=Movetocity | abbrev=mc }}{{/mcat | | title=Convert error | category=Convert errors | mouseover=These pages have a convert template with invalid parameters. | template=Convert | abbrev= }}{{/mcat | | title=Coord. error | category=Pages with malformed coordinate tags | mouseover=These pages have a geo template or listing which contains invalid coordinate parameters. | template=Geo | abbrev=ge }}{{/mcat | | title=Copy to Comm. | category=Copy to Wikimedia Commons | mouseover=These images need to be copied to Wikimedia Commons and then deleted here. | template=Copy to Wikimedia Commons | abbrev=cc }}{{/mcat | | title=Copyvio | category=Copyvio | mouseover=These articles contain copyright violations which should be removed and replaced with original writing. | template=Copyvio | abbrev=cv }}{{/mcat | | title=Crop banner | category=Banner needs cropping | mouseover=These pages have a banner which has the wrong dimensions. The banner should be cropped to have a 7:1 aspect ratio. | template=Crop | abbrev=ba }}{{/mcat | | title=Dead external link | category=Articles with dead external links | mouseover=These pages have a listing with a url that points to a non existent web page | template=dead link | abbrev=dl }}{{/mcat | | title=Dead link former | category=Articles with formerly dead external links | mouseover=These pages have a listing with a url that points to a non existent web page | template=dead link | abbrev=df }}{{/mcat | | title=DeStar nominations | category=Destar article nominations | mouseover=These pages that are star status but under consideration for downgrading. | template=destarnomination | abbrev=ds }}{{/mcat | | title=District discuss. | category=Articles with districts discussion | mouseover=These city articles have ongoing discussions about their district subdivision schemes. | template=Districts discussion | abbrev=dd }}{{/mcat | | title=Diff Coord | category=Articles Geo different to Wikidata | mouseover=Distance between Geo coordinates and Wikidata coordinates | template=geo | abbrev=dc }}{{/mcat | | title=Districtify | category=Move listings to districts | mouseover=These huge city articles have listings on the main city page which need to be moved to their respective district articles. Sections on the main page should be rewritten to give an overview with links to the various districts. | template=Movetodistrict | abbrev=md }}{{/mcat | | title=Duplicate arg. | category=Pages using duplicate arguments in template calls | mouseover=These articles have templates with ambiguous, duplicated parameters. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcat | | title=Email format | category=Listing with email format issue | mouseover=Email has no @, multiple @'s in the same email, has a double dot after the @ or does not contain any dots after the @ | template=listing | abbrev=ef }}{{/mcat | | title=Empty regions | category=Empty regions | mouseover=Regions in this category have no child articles. Consider whether coverage may be too fine-grained and/or redirection would be more appropriate. | template=Outlineregion | abbrev=or }}{{/mcat | | title=Event | category=Articles with out of date events | mouseover=Event listing with past date stated | template=Event | abbrev=ev }}{{/mcat | | title=Expt. articles | category=Experimental articles | mouseover=These articles are marked as experimental and probably need comment. | template=Experimental | abbrev=ex }}{{/mcat | | title=Expt. categories | category=Experimental categories | mouseover=These categories are marked as experimental and need to be maintained or deleted according to the fate of their corresponding experimental template or template functionality. | template=Experimental | abbrev=ex }}{{/mcat | | title=Expt. templates | category=Experimental templates | mouseover=These templates are marked as experimental and probably need comment. | template=Experimental | abbrev=ex }}{{/mcat | | title=Geo: param. | category=Articles needing Geo parameter | mouseover=These destination articles contain the geo template, but the coordinates have not been filled in. | template=Geo | abbrev=ge }}{{/mcat | | title=Geo: zoom | category=Articles needing the Geo zoom defined | mouseover=This category contains country, region, or huge city articles which contain the geo template but need the zoom attribute defined so that the map properly frames the article's area of coverage. | template=Geo | abbrev=ge }}{{/mcat | | title=Has ref tags | category=Articles with ref tags | mouseover=Articles in this category contain at least one <nowiki><ref></nowiki> tag that needs to be removed. | template= | abbrev=re }}{{/mcat | | title=IATA code | category=Airport code pages missing | mouseover=Articles in this category contain reference to IATA code with no link to airport information | template=IATA | abbrev=ia }}{{/mcat | | title=Lacks IPO cat. | category=Articles needing IsPartOf category | mouseover=These destination articles have the IsPartOf template, but no corresponding category exists for the specified parent region. Click on the category tree icon at the bottom of the article to create the category. | template=IsPartOf | abbrev=ip }}{{/mcat | | title=Lacks IPO par. | category=Articles needing IsPartOf parameter | mouseover=These destination articles contain the IsPartOf template but the parameter has not been specified. Fill in the parent region. | template=IsPartOf | abbrev=ip }}{{/mcat | | title=Lacks POT cat. | category=Travel topic needing category | mouseover=These topic articles have the PartOfTopic template, but no corresponding category exists for the specified parent. Click on the category tree icon at the bottom of the article to create the category. | template=PartOfTopic | abbrev=pt }}{{/mcat | | title=Lacks POT par. | category=Travel topic lacking parameter | mouseover=These topic articles contain the PartOfTopic template but the parameter has not been specified. Fill in the parent parameter. | template=PartOfTopic | abbrev=pt }}{{/mcat | | title=Lacks WP link | category=Articles without Wikipedia links | mouseover=These articles do not have interwiki links to Wikipedia. | template=no Wikipedia link | abbrev=nw }}{{/mcat | | title=Lic. review | category=License review needed | mouseover=These files need to have their licenses reviewed. | template=License review needed | abbrev=lr }}{{/mcat | | title=Link to disamb. | category=Pages linked to a data item for a disambiguation | mouseover=Pages in this category are non-disambiguation pages, but they are linked to Wikidata items which have been identified as disambiguations. These typically need to be corrected in Wikidata so that they are associated with the data item for the correct topic, rather than the disambiguation. When correcting them, please also move the links for any other Wikivoyage language versions which may also be present in the disambiguation item, if appropriate. | template=IsPartOf | abbrev=ip }}{{/mcat | | title=Marker without link | category=Marker with Wikivoyage article but no wikilink | mouseover=Set for marker templates with a Wikidata ID connected to a Wikivoyage article, but no wikilinks in the name. | template=Marker }}{{/mcat | | title=Merge | category=Articles to be merged | mouseover=Articles in this category typically do not merit their own article and have been tagged for merging into another article and then redirecting to there. The target article for each case is given in the respective tag at the top of each article. | template=Merge | abbrev=mg }}{{/mcat | | title=Merge tag errors | category=Pages with merge tag errors | mouseover=Articles in this category contain a 'merge' or 'merge from' tag which refers to an article that does not exist. The article title may have been typed wrong, or it may have been deleted since the tag was placed. | template=Merge | abbrev=mg }}{{/mcat | | title=Needs improvement | category=Articles needing improvement | mouseover=New articles that probably should be considered for merging or deletion but should give time for people to improve the content. For articles with outline sections but no content. | template=Needsimprovement | abbrev=ni }}{{/mcat | | title=Phone format | category=Listing with phone format issue | mouseover=Contains non standard separators. Edit to format +1 234 5678-9 | template=listing | abbrev=lf }}{{/mcat | | title=Phone ctry. code | category=Listing with phone missing country code | mouseover=Phone number does not have country code and/or plus sign. Edit to format +1 234 5678-9 | template=listing | abbrev=lc }}{{/mcat | | title=Listing parameter | category=Listing with compilation errors | mouseover=Listing with invalid parameter | template=listing | abbrev=lp }}{{/mcat | | title=Quickbar info. | category=Quickbar with missing information | mouseover=Pages with Quickbar and missing information. Please add new information to Wikidata. | template=Quickbar | abbrev=qb }}{{/mcat | | title=Region discuss. | category=Articles with regions discussion | mouseover=These articles have ongoing discussions about reorganizing the regional subdivision. | template=Regions discussion | abbrev=rd }}{{/mcat | | title=Routebox: icon | category=Routeboxes needing image | mouseover=Destinations in this category have a routebox navigation template which does not have an appropriate icon for one or more of the listed routes. | template=Routebox | abbrev=rb }}{{/mcat | | title=Script error | category=Pages with script errors | mouseover=These pages contain a script or module call which returns an error. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcat | | title=Speedy | category=Speedy deletion candidates | mouseover=These articles have been tagged for immediate deletion by an administrator. | template=Delete | abbrev=de }}{{/mcat | | title=Style | category=Articles needing style fixes | mouseover=These articles have been tagged for having style problems which do not comply with our Manual of Style. Specific suggestions may be found in the tags in the articles themselves. | template=Style | abbrev=st }}{{/mcat | | title=Touty | category=Articles with a promotional tone | mouseover=These articles have text written with tone that is too promotional or 'touty'. | template=Advert | abbrev=ad }}{{#ifeq:{{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Greek|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Spanish|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from French|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from German|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Hebrew|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Italian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Dutch|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Polish|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Portuguese|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Romanian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Russian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Swedish|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Ukrainian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Vietnamese|R}}}}|0||{{/translation}}}}{{/mcat | | title=Transcribe | category=Articles needing transcription fixes | mouseover=These articles have problems with transliteration of words from another language. | template=Transcription | abbrev=ts }}{{/mcat | | title=Vfd | category=Vfd | mouseover=Articles in this category have been nominated for deletion and are under discussion at Wikivoyage:Votes for deletion. | template=Vfd | abbrev=vd }}{{/mcat | | title=Warning box | category=Has warning box | mouseover=Articles in this category have a warning box which may need to be reviewed and/or updated. | template=Warningbox | abbrev=wb }}{{/mcat | | title=Wiki-pedia/data | category=Articles without Wikipedia links (via Wikidata) | mouseover=Articles need to check Wikidata page and Wikipedia link. | template=Pagebanner | abbrev=wd }} <!-- ------------------------start of list of empty categories -->{{/mcatempty | | title=Banner to WD | category=Banner missing from Wikidata | mouseover=These pages have a banner, but the corresponding Wikidata item's banner property is empty. | template=Pagebanner | abbrev=ba }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Blacklisted links | category=Pages containing blacklisted links | mouseover=Pages in this category contain one or more links which appear on the MediaWiki blacklist. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Broken image | category=Pages with broken file links | mouseover=Pages in this category contain one or more links to image files which do not exist. Please replace the image (preferable) or remove it. | template=image | abbrev=&nbsp; }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Cat-less reg. | category=Regions with no category | mouseover=No corresponding category exists for regions in this category. Consider whether coverage may be too fine-grained and/or redirection would be more appropriate. If child articles under the region have incorrect IsPartOf parameters, fix them and create the corresponding category. | template=Outlineregion | abbrev=or }}{{/mcatempty | | title=City-ify | category=Move listings to cities | mouseover=These region articles contain listings which should be moved to their respective city articles. | template=Movetocity | abbrev=mc }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Convert error | category=Convert errors | mouseover=These pages have a convert template with invalid parameters. | template=Convert | abbrev= }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Coord. error | category=Pages with malformed coordinate tags | mouseover=These pages have a geo template or listing which contains invalid coordinate parameters. | template=Geo | abbrev=ge }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Copy to Comm. | category=Copy to Wikimedia Commons | mouseover=These images need to be copied to Wikimedia Commons and then deleted here. | template=Copy to Wikimedia Commons | abbrev=cc }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Copyvio | category=Copyvio | mouseover=These articles contain copyright violations which should be removed and replaced with original writing. | template=Copyvio | abbrev=cv }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Crop banner | category=Banner needs cropping | mouseover=These pages have a banner which has the wrong dimensions. The banner should be cropped to have a 7:1 aspect ratio. | template=Pagebanner | abbrev=ba }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Dist. disc. | category=Articles with districts discussion | mouseover=These city articles have ongoing discussions about their district subdivision schemes. | template=Districts discussion | abbrev=dd }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Districtify | category=Move listings to districts | mouseover=These huge city articles have listings on the main city page which need to be moved to their respective district articles. Sections on the main page should be rewritten to give an overview with links to the various districts. | template=Movetodistrict | abbrev=md }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Duplicate arg. | category=Pages using duplicate arguments in template calls | mouseover=These articles have templates with ambiguous, duplicated parameters. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Email format | category=Listing with email format issue | mouseover=Email has no @, multiple @'s in the same email, has a double dot after the @ or does not contain any dots after the @ | template=listing | abbrev=ef }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Empty reg. | category=Empty regions | mouseover=Regions in this category have no child articles. Consider whether coverage may be too fine-grained and/or redirection would be more appropriate. | template=Outlineregion | abbrev=or }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Event | category=Articles with out of date events | mouseover=Event listing with past date stated | template=Event | abbrev=ev }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Exp. articles | category=Experimental articles | mouseover=These articles are marked as experimental and probably need comment. | template=Experimental | abbrev=ex }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Expt. categories | category=Experimental categories | mouseover=These categories are marked as experimental and need to be maintained or deleted according to the fate of their corresponding experimental template or template functionality. | template=Experimental | abbrev=ex }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Exp. templates | category=Experimental templates | mouseover=These templates are marked as experimental and probably need comment. | template=Experimental | abbrev=ex }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Geo: param. | category=Articles needing Geo parameter | mouseover=These destination articles contain the geo template, but the coordinates have not been filled in. | template=Geo | abbrev=ge }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Geo: zoom | category=Articles needing the Geo zoom defined | mouseover=This category contains country, region, or huge city articles which contain the geo template but need the zoom attribute defined so that the map properly frames the article's area of coverage. | template=Geo | abbrev=ge }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Has ref tags | category=Articles with ref tags | mouseover=Articles in this category contain at least one <nowiki><ref></nowiki> tag that needs to be removed. | template= | abbrev=re }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Lacks IPO cat. | category=Articles needing IsPartOf category | mouseover=These destination articles have the IsPartOf template, but no corresponding category exists for the specified parent region. Click on the category tree icon at the bottom of the article to create the category. | template=IsPartOf | abbrev=ip }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Lacks IPO par. | category=Articles needing IsPartOf parameter | mouseover=These destination articles contain the IsPartOf template but the parameter has not been specified. Fill in the parent region. | template=IsPartOf | abbrev=ip }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Lacks POT cat. | category=Travel topic needing category | mouseover=These topic articles have the PartOfTopic template, but no corresponding category exists for the specified parent. Click on the category tree icon at the bottom of the article to create the category. | template=PartOfTopic | abbrev=pt }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Lacks IPO par. | category=Articles needing IsPartOf parameter | mouseover=These destination articles contain the IsPartOf template but the parameter has not been specified. Fill in the parent region. | template=IsPartOf | abbrev=ip }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Lacks POT cat. | category=Travel topic needing category | mouseover=These topic articles have the PartOfTopic template, but no corresponding category exists for the specified parent. Click on the category tree icon at the bottom of the article to create the category. | template=PartOfTopic | abbrev=pt }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Lacks POT par. | category=Travel topic lacking parameter | mouseover=These topic articles contain the PartOfTopic template but the parameter has not been specified. Fill in the parent parameter. | template=PartOfTopic | abbrev=pt }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Lacks WP link | category=Articles without Wikipedia links | mouseover=These articles do not have interwiki links to Wikipedia. | template=no Wikipedia link | abbrev=nw }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Lic. review | category=License review needed | mouseover=These files need to have their licenses reviewed. | template=License review needed | abbrev=lr }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Link to disamb. | category=Pages linked to a data item for a disambiguation | mouseover=Pages in this category are non-disambiguation pages, but they are linked to Wikidata items which have been identified as disambiguations. These typically need to be corrected in Wikidata so that they are associated with the data item for the correct topic, rather than the disambiguation. When correcting them, please also move the links for any other Wikivoyage language versions which may also be present in the disambiguation item, if appropriate. | template=IsPartOf | abbrev=ip }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Marker without link | category=Marker with Wikivoyage article but no wikilink | mouseover=Set for marker templates with a Wikidata ID connected to a Wikivoyage article, but no wikilinks in the name. | template=Marker }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Merge | category=Articles to be merged | mouseover=Articles in this category typically do not merit their own article and have been tagged for merging into another article and then redirecting to there. The target article for each case is given in the respective tag at the top of each article. | template=Merge | abbrev=mg }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Merge tag errors | category=Pages with merge tag errors | mouseover=Articles in this category contain a 'merge' or 'merge from' tag which refers to an article that does not exist. The article title may have been typed wrong, or it may have been deleted since the tag was placed. | template=Merge | abbrev=mg }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Phone format | category=Listing with phone format issue | mouseover=Contains non standard separators. Edit to format +1 234 5678-9 | template=listing | abbrev=lf }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Phone ctry. code | category=Listing with phone missing country code | mouseover=Phone number does not have country code and/or plus sign. Edit to format +1 234 5678-9 | template=listing | abbrev=lc }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Listing parameter | category=Listing with compilation errors | mouseover=Listing with invalid parameter | template=listing | abbrev=lp }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Reg. disc. | category=Articles with regions discussion | mouseover=These articles have ongoing discussions about reorganizing the regional subdivision. | template=Regions discussion | abbrev=rd }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Routebox: icon | category=Routeboxes needing image | mouseover=Destinations in this category have a routebox navigation template which does not have an appropriate icon for one or more of the listed routes. | template=Routebox | abbrev=rb }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Script error | category=Pages with script errors | mouseover=These pages contain a script or module call which returns an error. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Speedy | category=Speedy deletion candidates | mouseover=These articles have been tagged for immediate deletion by an administrator. | template=Delete | abbrev=de }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Style | category=Articles needing style fixes | mouseover=These articles have been tagged for having style problems which do not comply with our Manual of Style. Specific suggestions may be found in the tags in the articles themselves. | template=Style | abbrev=st }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Touty | category=Articles with a promotional tone | mouseover=These articles have text written with tone that is too promotional or 'touty'. | template=Advert | abbrev=ad }}{{#ifeq:{{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Greek|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Spanish|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from French|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from German|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Hebrew|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Italian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Dutch|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Polish|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Portuguese|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Romanian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Russian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Swedish|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Ukrainian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Vietnamese|R}}}}|0||{{/translation}}|}}{{/mcatempty | | title=Transcribe | category=Articles needing transcription fixes | mouseover=These articles have problems with transliteration of words from another language. | template=Transcription | abbrev=ts }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Vfd | category=Vfd | mouseover=Articles in this category have been nominated for deletion and are under discussion at Wikivoyage:Votes for deletion. | template=Vfd | abbrev=vd }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Warning box | category=Has warning box | mouseover=Articles in this category have a warning box which may need to be reviewed and/or updated. | template=Warningbox | abbrev=wb }} |} </div></td><td style="width:4px;"></td></tr></table></small> | class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;vertical-align:top;width:25%;" | <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0" style="clear:both; width:100%;"><tr><td style=""><div style="overflow:auto; width:100%; "> {| border="1" style="border:1px solid darkgray; border-collapse:collapse; text-align:right; vertical-align:top; width:100%;" |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:top; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <small>'''Has [[WV:Article status|status]]'''&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr title="Click to find what's missing.">[{{Catscancall}}&depth=20&categories=Project&negcats=Stub+articles%0D%0AOutline+articles%0D%0AUsable+articles%0D%0AInformative+articles%0D%0AGuide+articles%0D%0AStar+articles%0D%0ATitle+articles%0D%0AGallery+pages%0D%0ADisambiguation%0D%0AGpx+data%0D%0AExtra+regions%0D%0AInactive+article+pages%0D%0ARedirects+connected+to+a+Wikidata+item&ns%5B0%5D=1&doit=1 <nowiki>[?]</nowiki>]</abbr><br> {{#expr: {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Stub articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Outline articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Usable articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Informative articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Guide articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Star articles|R}}}}&nbsp;/&nbsp;{{#expr:{{NUMBEROFARTICLES:R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Title articles|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Gallery pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Unranked articles|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Inactive article pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Extra regions|R}}-{{/Ghost articles}}}}&nbsp;=&nbsp;{{#expr: ({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Stub articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Outline articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Usable articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Informative articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Guide articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Star articles|R}}) / ({{NUMBEROFARTICLES:R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Title articles|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Gallery pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Unranked articles|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Inactive article pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Extra regions|R}}-{{/Ghost articles}}) *100 round 3}}%</small> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr: ({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Stub articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Outline articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Usable articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Informative articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Guide articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Star articles|R}}) / ({{NUMBEROFARTICLES:R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Title articles|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Gallery pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Unranked articles|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Inactive article pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Extra regions|R}}-37) *100}}}} |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:top; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <small>'''Has {{tl|IsPartOf}}'''&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr title="Click to find what's missing.">[{{Catscancall}}&depth=20&categories=District+articles%0D%0ACity+articles%0D%0ARegion+articles%0D%0AAirport+articles%0D%0APark+articles%0D%0ACountry+articles&comb%5Bunion%5D=1&templates_no=IsPartOf&combination=union&doit=1 <nowiki>[?]</nowiki>]</abbr><br> {{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}&nbsp;/&nbsp;{{#expr: {{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:District articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Rural area articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Region articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Park articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Dive guide articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Airport articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Country articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Continent articles|pages|R}}}} = {{#expr: {{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}} / ({{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:District articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Rural area articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Region articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Airport articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Dive guide articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Park articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Country articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Continent articles|pages|R}}) *100 round 3}}%</small> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr: {{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}} / ({{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:District articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Rural area articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Region articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Airport articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Dive guide articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Park articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Country articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Continent articles|pages|R}}) *100 }}}} |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:left; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <small>'''Has {{tl|IsPartOf}} param.'''&nbsp;&nbsp;[[:Category:Articles needing IsPartOf parameter|<abbr title="Click to find what's missing."><nowiki>[?]</nowiki></abbr>]]<br> {{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing IsPartOf parameter|R}}}}&nbsp;/&nbsp;{{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}&nbsp;=&nbsp;{{#expr: ({{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing IsPartOf parameter|R}}) / {{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}} *100 round 3}}%</small> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr: ({{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing IsPartOf parameter|R}}) / {{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}} *100 }}}} |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:left; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <small>'''Has {{tl|pagebanner}}'''&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr title="Click to find what's missing.">[{{Catscancall}}&categories=All+destination+articles%0D%0AItineraries%0D%0APhrasebooks%0D%0ATopic+articles%0D%0ADisambiguation&comb%5Bunion%5D=1&templates_no=pagebanner&doit=1 <nowiki>[?]</nowiki>]</abbr></small><br> <small>{{#expr:({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has default banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has standard banner|R}})}} / {{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Itineraries|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Phrasebooks|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Topic articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Title articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Gallery pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}}}} = {{#expr:({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has default banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has standard banner|R}})/({{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Itineraries|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Phrasebooks|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Topic articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Title articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Gallery pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}}) *100 round 3}}%</small> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr:({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has default banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has standard banner|R}})/({{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Itineraries|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Phrasebooks|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Topic articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Title articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Gallery pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}}) *100 round 3}}}} |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:left; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <span style="font-size:smaller;">'''[[:Category:Has custom banner|Has custom banner]]'''&nbsp;&nbsp;[[:Category:Has default banner|<abbr title="Click to find what's missing."><nowiki>[?]</nowiki></abbr>]]</span><br> <span style="font-size:smaller;">{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}} / {{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has default banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}}} = {{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}/({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has default banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}) *100 round 3}}%</span> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}/({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has default banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}) *100 round 3}}}} |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:left; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <span style="font-size:smaller;">'''[[:Category:Has standard banner|Has standard banner]]'''&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr title="Click to find what's missing.">[{{Catscancall}}&categories=Disambiguation&negcats=Has+standard+banner&comb%5Bsubset%5D=1&comb%5Bunion%5D=1&atleast_count=1&doit=1 <nowiki>[?]</nowiki>]</abbr><br> {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has standard banner|R}}&nbsp;/&nbsp;{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}}&nbsp;=&nbsp;{{#expr: {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has standard banner|R}} / {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}} *100 round 3}}%</span> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr: {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has standard banner|R}} / {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}} *100 }}}} |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:left; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <span style="font-size:smaller;">'''Cities with [[Template:Mapframe|mapframe]]'''&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr title="Click to find what's missing.">[{{Catscancall}}&depth=20&categories=City+articles&templates_no=mapframe&doit=1 <nowiki>[?]</nowiki>]</abbr></span><br> <span style="font-size:smaller;">{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has mapframe|R}} / {{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}} = {{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has mapframe|R}}/{{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}} *100 round 3}}%</span> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has mapframe|R}}/{{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}}*100 round 3}}}} |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:left; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <span style="font-size:smaller;">'''Cities with [[Template:Routebox|routebox]]'''&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr title="Click to find what's missing.">[{{Catscancall}}&depth=20&categories=City+articles&templates_no=routebox&doit=1 <nowiki>[?]</nowiki>]</abbr></span><br> <span style="font-size:smaller;">{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has routebox|R}} / {{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}} = {{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has routebox|R}}/{{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}} *100 round 3}}%</span> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has routebox|R}}/{{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}}*100 round 3}}}} |}</div></td></tr></table> |} |- | {{Wikivoyage:Article status stats}} |- | {|style="text-align:center;width:100%;" |- | style="text-align:left;width:25%;" | {| class="wikitable" style="font-size:85%; width:100%;" | colspan="2" style="text-align:center; background:#F2F2F2; color: black;" | '''Page statistics''' |- | [[Special:AllPages|Content pages]] || style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBEROFARTICLES}} |- | All pages || style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBEROFPAGES}} |- | [[Special:ListFiles|Uploaded files]] || style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBEROFFILES}} |- | colspan="2" style="text-align:center; background:#F2F2F2; color: black;" | '''Edit statistics''' |- | Page edits || style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBEROFEDITS}} |- | Edits/page || style="text-align:right;" | {{#expr:{{NUMBEROFEDITS:R}}/{{NUMBEROFPAGES:R}} round 2}} |} | style="text-align:left;width:25%;" | {| class="wikitable" style="font-size:85%; width:100%;" | colspan="2" style="text-align:center; background:#F2F2F2; color: black;" | '''User statistics''' |- | Registered users ([[Special:ListUsers|list]])|| style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBEROFUSERS}} |- | Active users ([[Special:ActiveUsers|list]])|| style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBEROFACTIVEUSERS}} |- | [[Wikivoyage:Script policy|Bots]] ([https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:ListUsers&group=bot list])|| style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBERINGROUP:bot}} |- | [[Wikivoyage:Administrators|Administrators]] ([https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:ListUsers&group=sysop list])|| style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBEROFADMINS}} |- | [[Wikivoyage:Bureaucrats|Bureaucrats]] ([https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:ListUsers&group=bureaucrat list]) || style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBERINGROUP:bureaucrat}} |- | [[Wikivoyage:Autopatrollers|Autopatrollers]] ([https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:ListUsers&group=autopatrolled list])|| style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBERINGROUP:autopatrolled}} |} | style="text-align:left;width:25%;" | {| class="wikitable" style="font-size:85%; text-align:center; width:100%;" | colspan="2" style="text-align:center; background:#F2F2F2; color: black;" | '''Administrator tools''' |- | [[Special:Block|Block]] || [[Special:Unblock|Unblock]] |- | [[Special:Nuke|Mass delete]] || [[Special:Undelete|Undelete]] |- | [[Special:UserRights|User rights]] || [[Special:Upload|Upload]] |- | colspan="2" | [[Special:UnwatchedPages|Unwatched pages]] |- | colspan="2" | [[Special:DeletedContributions|Deleted contributions]] |- | colspan="2" | [[Special:GlobalBlockWhitelist|Global block whitelist]] |} | style="text-align:center;width:25%; vertical-align:top;" | {| class="wikitable" style="font-size:85%; text-align:center; width:100%; vertical-align:top;" | style="text-align:center; background:#F2F2F2; color: black;" | '''My account''' |- | [[Special:Preferences|Preferences]] |- | [[Special:Notifications|Notifications]] |- | [[Special:Watchlist|Watchlist]] |- | [[Special:MyContributions|Contributions]] |} [[File:Gnome-colors-view-refresh.svg|25px|link={{fullurl:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|action=purge}}]]<big><span class="purgelink">[{{fullurl:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|action=purge}}<span title="Refresh this page"> '''''Refresh'''''</span>]</span></big> |} |} {{WikivoyageDoc|help}} mah8ecfxinjv9mmdxtydnmn6gk1gxgy 5289019 5288874 2026-06-07T08:40:51Z InternetArchiveBot 2253620 Rescuing 0 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.5 5289019 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ {{pagebanner|Maintenance Wikivoyage banner.jpg|notoc=true}} This page brings together all maintenance-related items and statistics. Mouse over the <abbr title="Tooltip">underlined</abbr> words for help. {| | {|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;width:100%; border:1px solid #AAAAAA;" |- ! <big>Pages and tools</big> ! <big>[[Special:SpecialPages|Special pages]]</big> ! <big>[[:Category:Articles needing attention|Maintenance categories]]</big> ! <big>[[Wikivoyage:Template index|Standard templates]]</big> |- | style="text-align:center;vertical-align:top;width:25%;" | <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0" style="clear:both; width:100%;"><tr><td style=""><div style="overflow:auto; width:100%;"> {| style="text-align:left; vertical-align:top; width:100%;" |- |'''Wikivoyage pages''' <div style="font-size:smaller;"> * [[Wikivoyage:User rights nominations|<abbr title="This is the page for submitting and discussing nominations for administrator.">Admin nominations</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Cleanup|<abbr title="This page is for organizing specific cleanup tasks.">Cleanup</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Community portal|<abbr title="The central place for working together on Wikivoyage.">Community portal</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Collaboration of the month|<abbr title="Candidates for Collaboration of the Month">CotM candidates</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates|<abbr title="Candidates for Destination of the Month">DotM candidates</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Discover|<abbr title="Queue and suggestions for factoids for the Discover section of the Main Page.">Discover</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Expeditions|<abbr title="This is the index page for Expeditions, our specific, task-oriented projects for improving our guides.">Expeditions</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Pages needing images|<abbr title="This page contains a list of pages which have no images yet.">Pages needing images</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Policies|<abbr title="This is the index/summary page for Wikivoyage's policies and guidelines.">Policies</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Requests for comment|<abbr title="This is a place Wikivoyagers can request more attention for a discussion or issue that might otherwise go unnoticed">Requests for comment</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Requested articles|<abbr title="Suggestions for articles to be created.">Requested articles</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Requests for maps|<abbr title="Requests for custom maps to be created.">Requested maps</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Requests for phrasebooks|<abbr title="Suggestions for phrasebooks to be created for other languages.">Requested phrasebooks</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Roadmap|<abbr title="This page is a central place for tracking certain ideas and having discussions regarding new features for Wikivoyage in the future.">Roadmap</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Script nominations|<abbr title="This page is for nominations and discussions for new scripts/bots.">Script nominations</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Star nominations|<abbr title="This page is for nominations and discussions on promoting articles to star status.">Star nominations</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:Votes for deletion|<abbr title="This page is for proposing and discussing the deletion of articles. There are currently {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Vfd}} pages nominated.">Votes for deletion ({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Vfd}})</abbr>]] * [[Wikivoyage:World cities|<abbr title="Lists of significant world cities which should have articles on Wikivoyage.">World cities</abbr>]] </div> |- |'''<abbr title="MediaWiki pages can only be altered by administrators.">MediaWiki pages</abbr>''' <div style="font-size:smaller;"> * [[MediaWiki:Spam-blacklist|<abbr title="Local list of spammy URLs which are blocked from being added to our articles.">Spam blacklist</abbr>]] * [[MediaWiki:Spam-whitelist|<abbr title="Local exception list of URLs which are on the global spam blacklist but which have been approved for addition to our articles.">Spam whitelist</abbr>]] * [[MediaWiki:Sitenotice|<abbr title="The site notice appear at the top of all pages, used for sitewide announcements.">Site notice</abbr>]] </div> |- |'''<abbr title="These external websites have various useful tools and information.">External pages/tools</abbr>''' <div style="font-size:smaller;"> * <abbr title="Listings with invalid URL/email/latitude/longitude. Updated every two weeks.">[http://wvpoi.batalex.ru/download/listings/wikivoyage-listings-en-latest.validation-report.html Malformed listings]{{Dead link|date=June 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}</abbr> * <abbr title="This map shows the locations of all destinations which have an article on Wikivoyage.">[https://wikivoyage.toolforge.org/w/artmap.php?lang=en WV article map]</abbr> * [[meta:Wikivoyage|<abbr title="The Wikivoyage page on Meta contains some statistics and general information regarding the project.">meta:Wikivoyage</abbr>]] * [[meta:Wikivoyage/Lounge|<abbr title="The Wikivoyage Lounge on Meta is the place for discussing issues which affect all language versions of Wikivoyage.">meta:Lounge</abbr>]] * [[meta:Wikivoyage/Summit|<abbr title="The Summit page contain monthly reports from each language version.">meta:Summit</abbr>]] * <abbr title="Phabricator is our resource for reporting bugs and errors and for requesting new features.">[[:phabricator:|Phabricator]]</abbr> * <abbr title="This page has a wealth of statistical and comparative information regarding all language versions of Wikivoyage.">[https://stats.wikimedia.org/v2/#/all-projects Multilingual statistics]</abbr> * <abbr title="This is a simple tool for finding pages with two or more given categories.">[http://tools.wmflabs.org/catscan2/quick_intersection.php Category intersection]</abbr> * <abbr title="This is a more complex tool for finding pages with given combinations of categories and templates.">[{{Catscancall}} CatScan 2.0]</abbr> * <abbr title="This is slightly buggy tool for conversion of unformatted listings to our templated formats. Always check results carefully before using them in an article.">[https://github.com/ml31415/wvtagconvert Listing converter]</abbr> * <abbr title="Free Image Search Tool - This page offers a variety of search possibilities related to images.">[http://tools.wmflabs.org/fist/fist.php?doit=1&language=en&project=wikivoyage&data=category_name_here&datatype=categories&params%5Bcatdepth%5D=0&params%5Brandom%5D=50&params%5Bll_max%5D=5&params%5Bcommons_max%5D=5&params%5Bflickr_max%5D=5&params%5Binclude_flickr_id%5D=1&params%5Bwts_max%5D=5&params%5Bgimp_max%5D=5&params%5Besp_max%5D=5&params%5Besp_skip_flickr%5D=1&params%5Bgeograph_max%5D=5&params%5Bforarticles%5D=noimage&params%5Blessthan_images%5D=3&params%5Bdefault_thumbnail_size%5D=&params%5Bjpeg%5D=1&params%5Bpng%5D=1&params%5Bgif%5D=1&params%5Bsvg%5D=1&params%5Bogg%5D=1&params%5Bmin_width%5D=80&params%5Bmin_height%5D=80 FIST]</abbr> * <abbr title="This page gives an overview of a given users editing behavior.">[https://xtools.wmflabs.org/ec/en.wikivoyage.org X's edit counter]</abbr> * <abbr title="A tool which helps to quickly create dynamic district overview maps">[https://rene78.github.io/Wikivoyage-Districtifier/ Wikivoyage Districtifier]</abbr> * <abbr title="A tool to convert one or multiple GeoJSON polygons into a mapmask or vice versa.">[https://rene78.github.io/mapmask-geojson-converter/ Mapmask ↔ GeoJSON Converter]</abbr> * <abbr title="Can be used to quickly identify unlinked articles, for example by searching for articles that contain “Yosemite” but do not link to Yosemite National Park.">[http://mountaininterval.org/wikivoyage/seo.html Wikivoyage SEO Query Tool]</abbr> </div> |} </div></td></tr></table> | style="text-align:center;vertical-align:top;width:25%;" | <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0" style="clear:both; width:100%;"><tr><td style=""><div style="overflow:auto; width:100%;"> {| style="text-align:left; vertical-align:top; width:100%;" |'''General'''<br> <div style="font-size:smaller;"> * [[Special:RecentChanges|<abbr title="Patrol recent changes on the wiki.">Recent changes</abbr>]] * [[Special:Statistics|<abbr title="Statistics on numbers of pages, edits, and users.">Statistics</abbr>]] * [[Special:Log|<abbr title="Logs for various events on the wiki, including user creation, page deletion, moves, protections, blocks, and more.">Public logs</abbr>]] * [[Special:AbuseLog|<abbr title="Log of edits which have tripped an abuse filter.">Abuse log</abbr>]] * [[Special:LinkSearch|<abbr title="Search for pages which include a given external URL.">External link search</abbr>]] * [[Special:AllMessages|<abbr title="Index of MediaWiki pages which create the interface text of the wiki. These pages can only be edited by administrators.">System messages</abbr>]] </div> |- |'''[[Special:AllPages|<abbr title="Click to see the index of all pages.">Pages</abbr>]]''' <div style="font-size:smaller;"> * [[Special:NewPages|<abbr title="Click to see the log of new page creations.">New pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:AncientPages|<abbr title="Click to see the list of oldest pages.">Oldest pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:ShortPages|<abbr title="Click to see a list of pages in ascending order of length. This is good for finding pages which need to be expanded, merged, or deleted.">Short pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:LongPages|<abbr title="Click to see a list of pages in descending order of length. Exceptionally long pages may need to have excessive information culled or moved, or the article may need to be split into sub-articles.">Long pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:WantedPages|<abbr title="Click to see the list of non-existent pages which are linked to from other pages.">Wanted pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:LonelyPages|<abbr title="Click to see the list of pages which are not linked to from any other pages. Links should be added from the parent region/article, at minimum.">Orphaned pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:FewestRevisions|<abbr title="Click to see the list of pages with the fewest revisions.">Neglected pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:DisambiguationPageLinks|<abbr title="This list contains pages which contain a link to a disambiguation page. These links may be intentional (i.e. ``for other uses, see...) or they may be accidental, in which case they should be corrected to point to the intended page.">Pages linking to disambig</abbr>]] * [[Special:UncategorizedPages|<abbr title="Pages listed here have no category, which means they lack various templates such as <nowiki>{{IsPartOf}}, {{geo}}</nowiki>, and status templates.">Uncategorized pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:UnconnectedPages|<abbr title="This list contains pages which have not been connected to a corresponding data item on Wikidata.">Pages w/o WD item</abbr>]] * [[Special:ProtectedPages|<abbr title="Click to see the list of protected pages.">Protected pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:DisambiguationPages|<abbr title="Click to see the full list of disambiguation pages.">Disambig pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:PrefixIndex|<abbr title="View lists of pages by prefix.">Pages by prefix</abbr>]] * [[Special:PagesWithProp|<abbr title="View lists of pages which contain magic words such as <nowiki>__NOTOC__, __NOINDEX__</nowiki>, etc.">Pages by property</abbr>]] * [[Special:MostLinkedPages|<abbr title="This list shows the pages which are most linked to from other pages.">Most linked pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:MostRevisions|<abbr title="Click to see the pages with the most edits.">Most edited pages</abbr>]] * [[Special:MostCategories|<abbr title="This list shows pages with the most categories. Pages with many categories are likely tagged with multiple maintenance categories and may have serious problems which need to be fixed.">Pages with most cats</abbr>]] * [[Special:ComparePages|<abbr title="This is a tool which compares two pages.">Compare pages</abbr>]] </div> |- |'''[[Special:ListRedirects|<abbr title="Click to see the full list of redirect pages.">Redirects</abbr>]]''' <div style="font-size: smaller;> * [[Special:DoubleRedirects|<abbr title="Double redirects are redirects which point to another redirect. They should be corrected to point to the final target of redirection.">Double redirects</abbr>]] * [[Special:BrokenRedirects|<abbr title="Broken redirects are redirects which point to non-existent pages. They should be corrected to point to legitimate pages, or if none exists, consider nominating for deletion.">Broken redirects</abbr>]] </div> |- |'''[[Special:Categories|<abbr title="Click to see the full list of categories.">Categories</abbr>]]''' <div style="font-size: smaller;"> * [[Special:WantedCategories|<abbr title="Wanted categories are non-existent categories which have members. Consider whether the category should be created, or whether the inclusion tags should be removed from the member articles.">Wanted categories</abbr>]] * [[Special:UncategorizedCategories|<abbr title="Categories listed here do not belong to any other category and are thus not part of the category tree.">Uncategorized categories</abbr>]] * [[Special:UnusedCategories|<abbr title="These categories have no members. Many of these are region articles which simply don't have any children articles yet. If there are other types of categories, consider whether they are useful or need to be nominated for deletion.">Unused categories</abbr>]] * [[Special:MostLinkedCategories|<abbr title="Click to see the list of most popular categories.">Most linked categories</abbr>]] * [[Special:CategoryTree|<abbr title="This page shows a given category in tree form.">Category tree</abbr>]] </div> |- |'''[[:Category:Templates|<abbr title="Click to see the category of MediaWiki templates.">Templates</abbr>]]''' <div style="font-size:smaller;"> * [[Special:WantedTemplates|<abbr title="This category contains non-existent templates which are called from at least one article. Consider whether the template call can be removed from the respective articles.">Wanted templates</abbr>]] * [[Special:UncategorizedTemplates|<abbr title="These templates do not belong to any category.">Uncategorized templates</abbr>]] * [[Special:UnusedTemplates|<abbr title="These templates are not used in any articles. Some of these may need to be considered for deletion, but be carefuly, because some templates are intended for substitution only, and thus appear in this list as well.">Unused templates</abbr>]] * [[Special:TemplateSandbox|<abbr title="This is a tool for previewing sandbox versions of templates.">Template sandbox</abbr>]] * [[Special:ExpandTemplates|<abbr title="This special page takes text and expands all templates in it recursively.">Expand templates</abbr>]] </div> |- |'''[[Special:ListFiles|<abbr title="Click to see the full list of files uploaded to the local wiki.">Files</abbr>]]''' <div style="font-size:smaller;"> * [[Special:NewFiles|<abbr title="Click to see the list of new file uploads.">New files</abbr>]] * [[Special:UncategorizedFiles|<abbr title="These files do not belong to any category.">Uncategorized files</abbr>]] * [[Special:UnusedFiles|<abbr title="This files are not used on any page. Consider whether they should be deleted or moved to Commons.">Unused files</abbr>]] * [[Special:WantedFiles|<abbr title="This page lists non-existent file titles which are linked to from at least one page. Consider whether to remove such red links.">Wanted files</abbr>]] * [[Special:MostLinkedFiles|<abbr title="Click to see the list of most-used files.">Most linked files</abbr>]] * [[Special:GlobalUsage|<abbr title="Search global file usage.">Global file usage</abbr>]] * [[Special:FileDuplicateSearch|<abbr title="Search for duplicate files.">Duplicate file search</abbr>]] </div> |} </div></td></tr></table> | style="text-align:center;vertical-align:top;width:25%;" | <small><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0" style="clear:both; width:100%;"><tr><td style=""><div style="overflow:auto; width:100%;"> {| class="sortable" border="1" style="border:1px solid darkgray; border-collapse:collapse; width:100%; text-align:left;" ! style="text-align:center;" | Problem ! style="text-align:center;" data-sort-type="number" | # {{/mcat | | title=Banner to WD | category=Banner missing from Wikidata | mouseover=These pages have a banner, but the corresponding Wikidata item's banner property is empty. | template=Pagebanner | abbrev=ba }}{{/mcat | | title=Banner image | category=Has default banner | mouseover=Pages in this category need a custom banner. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcat | | title=Blacklisted links | category=Pages containing blacklisted links | mouseover=Pages in this category contain one or more links which appear on the MediaWiki blacklist. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcat | | title=Broken image | category=Pages with broken file links | mouseover=Pages in this category contain one or more links to image files which do not exist. Please replace the image (preferable) or remove it. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcat | | title=Cat-less region | category=Regions with no category | mouseover=No corresponding category exists for regions in this category. Consider whether coverage may be too fine-grained and/or redirection would be more appropriate. If child articles under the region have incorrect IsPartOf parameters, fix them and create the corresponding category. | template=Outlineregion | abbrev=or }}{{/mcat | | title=City-ify | category=Move listings to cities | mouseover=These region articles contain listings which should be moved to their respective city articles. | template=Movetocity | abbrev=mc }}{{/mcat | | title=Convert error | category=Convert errors | mouseover=These pages have a convert template with invalid parameters. | template=Convert | abbrev= }}{{/mcat | | title=Coord. error | category=Pages with malformed coordinate tags | mouseover=These pages have a geo template or listing which contains invalid coordinate parameters. | template=Geo | abbrev=ge }}{{/mcat | | title=Copy to Comm. | category=Copy to Wikimedia Commons | mouseover=These images need to be copied to Wikimedia Commons and then deleted here. | template=Copy to Wikimedia Commons | abbrev=cc }}{{/mcat | | title=Copyvio | category=Copyvio | mouseover=These articles contain copyright violations which should be removed and replaced with original writing. | template=Copyvio | abbrev=cv }}{{/mcat | | title=Crop banner | category=Banner needs cropping | mouseover=These pages have a banner which has the wrong dimensions. The banner should be cropped to have a 7:1 aspect ratio. | template=Crop | abbrev=ba }}{{/mcat | | title=Dead external link | category=Articles with dead external links | mouseover=These pages have a listing with a url that points to a non existent web page | template=dead link | abbrev=dl }}{{/mcat | | title=Dead link former | category=Articles with formerly dead external links | mouseover=These pages have a listing with a url that points to a non existent web page | template=dead link | abbrev=df }}{{/mcat | | title=DeStar nominations | category=Destar article nominations | mouseover=These pages that are star status but under consideration for downgrading. | template=destarnomination | abbrev=ds }}{{/mcat | | title=District discuss. | category=Articles with districts discussion | mouseover=These city articles have ongoing discussions about their district subdivision schemes. | template=Districts discussion | abbrev=dd }}{{/mcat | | title=Diff Coord | category=Articles Geo different to Wikidata | mouseover=Distance between Geo coordinates and Wikidata coordinates | template=geo | abbrev=dc }}{{/mcat | | title=Districtify | category=Move listings to districts | mouseover=These huge city articles have listings on the main city page which need to be moved to their respective district articles. Sections on the main page should be rewritten to give an overview with links to the various districts. | template=Movetodistrict | abbrev=md }}{{/mcat | | title=Duplicate arg. | category=Pages using duplicate arguments in template calls | mouseover=These articles have templates with ambiguous, duplicated parameters. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcat | | title=Email format | category=Listing with email format issue | mouseover=Email has no @, multiple @'s in the same email, has a double dot after the @ or does not contain any dots after the @ | template=listing | abbrev=ef }}{{/mcat | | title=Empty regions | category=Empty regions | mouseover=Regions in this category have no child articles. Consider whether coverage may be too fine-grained and/or redirection would be more appropriate. | template=Outlineregion | abbrev=or }}{{/mcat | | title=Event | category=Articles with out of date events | mouseover=Event listing with past date stated | template=Event | abbrev=ev }}{{/mcat | | title=Expt. articles | category=Experimental articles | mouseover=These articles are marked as experimental and probably need comment. | template=Experimental | abbrev=ex }}{{/mcat | | title=Expt. categories | category=Experimental categories | mouseover=These categories are marked as experimental and need to be maintained or deleted according to the fate of their corresponding experimental template or template functionality. | template=Experimental | abbrev=ex }}{{/mcat | | title=Expt. templates | category=Experimental templates | mouseover=These templates are marked as experimental and probably need comment. | template=Experimental | abbrev=ex }}{{/mcat | | title=Geo: param. | category=Articles needing Geo parameter | mouseover=These destination articles contain the geo template, but the coordinates have not been filled in. | template=Geo | abbrev=ge }}{{/mcat | | title=Geo: zoom | category=Articles needing the Geo zoom defined | mouseover=This category contains country, region, or huge city articles which contain the geo template but need the zoom attribute defined so that the map properly frames the article's area of coverage. | template=Geo | abbrev=ge }}{{/mcat | | title=Has ref tags | category=Articles with ref tags | mouseover=Articles in this category contain at least one <nowiki><ref></nowiki> tag that needs to be removed. | template= | abbrev=re }}{{/mcat | | title=IATA code | category=Airport code pages missing | mouseover=Articles in this category contain reference to IATA code with no link to airport information | template=IATA | abbrev=ia }}{{/mcat | | title=Lacks IPO cat. | category=Articles needing IsPartOf category | mouseover=These destination articles have the IsPartOf template, but no corresponding category exists for the specified parent region. Click on the category tree icon at the bottom of the article to create the category. | template=IsPartOf | abbrev=ip }}{{/mcat | | title=Lacks IPO par. | category=Articles needing IsPartOf parameter | mouseover=These destination articles contain the IsPartOf template but the parameter has not been specified. Fill in the parent region. | template=IsPartOf | abbrev=ip }}{{/mcat | | title=Lacks POT cat. | category=Travel topic needing category | mouseover=These topic articles have the PartOfTopic template, but no corresponding category exists for the specified parent. Click on the category tree icon at the bottom of the article to create the category. | template=PartOfTopic | abbrev=pt }}{{/mcat | | title=Lacks POT par. | category=Travel topic lacking parameter | mouseover=These topic articles contain the PartOfTopic template but the parameter has not been specified. Fill in the parent parameter. | template=PartOfTopic | abbrev=pt }}{{/mcat | | title=Lacks WP link | category=Articles without Wikipedia links | mouseover=These articles do not have interwiki links to Wikipedia. | template=no Wikipedia link | abbrev=nw }}{{/mcat | | title=Lic. review | category=License review needed | mouseover=These files need to have their licenses reviewed. | template=License review needed | abbrev=lr }}{{/mcat | | title=Link to disamb. | category=Pages linked to a data item for a disambiguation | mouseover=Pages in this category are non-disambiguation pages, but they are linked to Wikidata items which have been identified as disambiguations. These typically need to be corrected in Wikidata so that they are associated with the data item for the correct topic, rather than the disambiguation. When correcting them, please also move the links for any other Wikivoyage language versions which may also be present in the disambiguation item, if appropriate. | template=IsPartOf | abbrev=ip }}{{/mcat | | title=Marker without link | category=Marker with Wikivoyage article but no wikilink | mouseover=Set for marker templates with a Wikidata ID connected to a Wikivoyage article, but no wikilinks in the name. | template=Marker }}{{/mcat | | title=Merge | category=Articles to be merged | mouseover=Articles in this category typically do not merit their own article and have been tagged for merging into another article and then redirecting to there. The target article for each case is given in the respective tag at the top of each article. | template=Merge | abbrev=mg }}{{/mcat | | title=Merge tag errors | category=Pages with merge tag errors | mouseover=Articles in this category contain a 'merge' or 'merge from' tag which refers to an article that does not exist. The article title may have been typed wrong, or it may have been deleted since the tag was placed. | template=Merge | abbrev=mg }}{{/mcat | | title=Needs improvement | category=Articles needing improvement | mouseover=New articles that probably should be considered for merging or deletion but should give time for people to improve the content. For articles with outline sections but no content. | template=Needsimprovement | abbrev=ni }}{{/mcat | | title=Phone format | category=Listing with phone format issue | mouseover=Contains non standard separators. Edit to format +1 234 5678-9 | template=listing | abbrev=lf }}{{/mcat | | title=Phone ctry. code | category=Listing with phone missing country code | mouseover=Phone number does not have country code and/or plus sign. Edit to format +1 234 5678-9 | template=listing | abbrev=lc }}{{/mcat | | title=Listing parameter | category=Listing with compilation errors | mouseover=Listing with invalid parameter | template=listing | abbrev=lp }}{{/mcat | | title=Quickbar info. | category=Quickbar with missing information | mouseover=Pages with Quickbar and missing information. Please add new information to Wikidata. | template=Quickbar | abbrev=qb }}{{/mcat | | title=Region discuss. | category=Articles with regions discussion | mouseover=These articles have ongoing discussions about reorganizing the regional subdivision. | template=Regions discussion | abbrev=rd }}{{/mcat | | title=Routebox: icon | category=Routeboxes needing image | mouseover=Destinations in this category have a routebox navigation template which does not have an appropriate icon for one or more of the listed routes. | template=Routebox | abbrev=rb }}{{/mcat | | title=Script error | category=Pages with script errors | mouseover=These pages contain a script or module call which returns an error. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcat | | title=Speedy | category=Speedy deletion candidates | mouseover=These articles have been tagged for immediate deletion by an administrator. | template=Delete | abbrev=de }}{{/mcat | | title=Style | category=Articles needing style fixes | mouseover=These articles have been tagged for having style problems which do not comply with our Manual of Style. Specific suggestions may be found in the tags in the articles themselves. | template=Style | abbrev=st }}{{/mcat | | title=Touty | category=Articles with a promotional tone | mouseover=These articles have text written with tone that is too promotional or 'touty'. | template=Advert | abbrev=ad }}{{#ifeq:{{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Greek|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Spanish|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from French|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from German|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Hebrew|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Italian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Dutch|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Polish|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Portuguese|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Romanian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Russian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Swedish|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Ukrainian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Vietnamese|R}}}}|0||{{/translation}}}}{{/mcat | | title=Transcribe | category=Articles needing transcription fixes | mouseover=These articles have problems with transliteration of words from another language. | template=Transcription | abbrev=ts }}{{/mcat | | title=Vfd | category=Vfd | mouseover=Articles in this category have been nominated for deletion and are under discussion at Wikivoyage:Votes for deletion. | template=Vfd | abbrev=vd }}{{/mcat | | title=Warning box | category=Has warning box | mouseover=Articles in this category have a warning box which may need to be reviewed and/or updated. | template=Warningbox | abbrev=wb }}{{/mcat | | title=Wiki-pedia/data | category=Articles without Wikipedia links (via Wikidata) | mouseover=Articles need to check Wikidata page and Wikipedia link. | template=Pagebanner | abbrev=wd }} <!-- ------------------------start of list of empty categories -->{{/mcatempty | | title=Banner to WD | category=Banner missing from Wikidata | mouseover=These pages have a banner, but the corresponding Wikidata item's banner property is empty. | template=Pagebanner | abbrev=ba }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Blacklisted links | category=Pages containing blacklisted links | mouseover=Pages in this category contain one or more links which appear on the MediaWiki blacklist. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Broken image | category=Pages with broken file links | mouseover=Pages in this category contain one or more links to image files which do not exist. Please replace the image (preferable) or remove it. | template=image | abbrev=&nbsp; }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Cat-less reg. | category=Regions with no category | mouseover=No corresponding category exists for regions in this category. Consider whether coverage may be too fine-grained and/or redirection would be more appropriate. If child articles under the region have incorrect IsPartOf parameters, fix them and create the corresponding category. | template=Outlineregion | abbrev=or }}{{/mcatempty | | title=City-ify | category=Move listings to cities | mouseover=These region articles contain listings which should be moved to their respective city articles. | template=Movetocity | abbrev=mc }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Convert error | category=Convert errors | mouseover=These pages have a convert template with invalid parameters. | template=Convert | abbrev= }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Coord. error | category=Pages with malformed coordinate tags | mouseover=These pages have a geo template or listing which contains invalid coordinate parameters. | template=Geo | abbrev=ge }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Copy to Comm. | category=Copy to Wikimedia Commons | mouseover=These images need to be copied to Wikimedia Commons and then deleted here. | template=Copy to Wikimedia Commons | abbrev=cc }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Copyvio | category=Copyvio | mouseover=These articles contain copyright violations which should be removed and replaced with original writing. | template=Copyvio | abbrev=cv }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Crop banner | category=Banner needs cropping | mouseover=These pages have a banner which has the wrong dimensions. The banner should be cropped to have a 7:1 aspect ratio. | template=Pagebanner | abbrev=ba }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Dist. disc. | category=Articles with districts discussion | mouseover=These city articles have ongoing discussions about their district subdivision schemes. | template=Districts discussion | abbrev=dd }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Districtify | category=Move listings to districts | mouseover=These huge city articles have listings on the main city page which need to be moved to their respective district articles. Sections on the main page should be rewritten to give an overview with links to the various districts. | template=Movetodistrict | abbrev=md }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Duplicate arg. | category=Pages using duplicate arguments in template calls | mouseover=These articles have templates with ambiguous, duplicated parameters. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Email format | category=Listing with email format issue | mouseover=Email has no @, multiple @'s in the same email, has a double dot after the @ or does not contain any dots after the @ | template=listing | abbrev=ef }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Empty reg. | category=Empty regions | mouseover=Regions in this category have no child articles. 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Click on the category tree icon at the bottom of the article to create the category. | template=IsPartOf | abbrev=ip }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Lacks IPO par. | category=Articles needing IsPartOf parameter | mouseover=These destination articles contain the IsPartOf template but the parameter has not been specified. Fill in the parent region. | template=IsPartOf | abbrev=ip }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Lacks POT cat. | category=Travel topic needing category | mouseover=These topic articles have the PartOfTopic template, but no corresponding category exists for the specified parent. Click on the category tree icon at the bottom of the article to create the category. | template=PartOfTopic | abbrev=pt }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Lacks IPO par. | category=Articles needing IsPartOf parameter | mouseover=These destination articles contain the IsPartOf template but the parameter has not been specified. 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Fill in the parent parameter. | template=PartOfTopic | abbrev=pt }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Lacks WP link | category=Articles without Wikipedia links | mouseover=These articles do not have interwiki links to Wikipedia. | template=no Wikipedia link | abbrev=nw }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Lic. review | category=License review needed | mouseover=These files need to have their licenses reviewed. | template=License review needed | abbrev=lr }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Link to disamb. | category=Pages linked to a data item for a disambiguation | mouseover=Pages in this category are non-disambiguation pages, but they are linked to Wikidata items which have been identified as disambiguations. These typically need to be corrected in Wikidata so that they are associated with the data item for the correct topic, rather than the disambiguation. 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The article title may have been typed wrong, or it may have been deleted since the tag was placed. | template=Merge | abbrev=mg }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Phone format | category=Listing with phone format issue | mouseover=Contains non standard separators. Edit to format +1 234 5678-9 | template=listing | abbrev=lf }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Phone ctry. code | category=Listing with phone missing country code | mouseover=Phone number does not have country code and/or plus sign. Edit to format +1 234 5678-9 | template=listing | abbrev=lc }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Listing parameter | category=Listing with compilation errors | mouseover=Listing with invalid parameter | template=listing | abbrev=lp }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Reg. disc. | category=Articles with regions discussion | mouseover=These articles have ongoing discussions about reorganizing the regional subdivision. | template=Regions discussion | abbrev=rd }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Routebox: icon | category=Routeboxes needing image | mouseover=Destinations in this category have a routebox navigation template which does not have an appropriate icon for one or more of the listed routes. | template=Routebox | abbrev=rb }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Script error | category=Pages with script errors | mouseover=These pages contain a script or module call which returns an error. | template= | abbrev= }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Speedy | category=Speedy deletion candidates | mouseover=These articles have been tagged for immediate deletion by an administrator. | template=Delete | abbrev=de }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Style | category=Articles needing style fixes | mouseover=These articles have been tagged for having style problems which do not comply with our Manual of Style. Specific suggestions may be found in the tags in the articles themselves. | template=Style | abbrev=st }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Touty | category=Articles with a promotional tone | mouseover=These articles have text written with tone that is too promotional or 'touty'. | template=Advert | abbrev=ad }}{{#ifeq:{{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Greek|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Spanish|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from French|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from German|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Hebrew|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Italian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Dutch|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Polish|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Portuguese|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Romanian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Russian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Swedish|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Ukrainian|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing translation from Vietnamese|R}}}}|0||{{/translation}}|}}{{/mcatempty | | title=Transcribe | category=Articles needing transcription fixes | mouseover=These articles have problems with transliteration of words from another language. | template=Transcription | abbrev=ts }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Vfd | category=Vfd | mouseover=Articles in this category have been nominated for deletion and are under discussion at Wikivoyage:Votes for deletion. | template=Vfd | abbrev=vd }}{{/mcatempty | | title=Warning box | category=Has warning box | mouseover=Articles in this category have a warning box which may need to be reviewed and/or updated. | template=Warningbox | abbrev=wb }} |} </div></td><td style="width:4px;"></td></tr></table></small> | class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;vertical-align:top;width:25%;" | <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0" style="clear:both; width:100%;"><tr><td style=""><div style="overflow:auto; width:100%; "> {| border="1" style="border:1px solid darkgray; border-collapse:collapse; text-align:right; vertical-align:top; width:100%;" |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:top; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <small>'''Has [[WV:Article status|status]]'''&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr title="Click to find what's missing.">[{{Catscancall}}&depth=20&categories=Project&negcats=Stub+articles%0D%0AOutline+articles%0D%0AUsable+articles%0D%0AInformative+articles%0D%0AGuide+articles%0D%0AStar+articles%0D%0ATitle+articles%0D%0AGallery+pages%0D%0ADisambiguation%0D%0AGpx+data%0D%0AExtra+regions%0D%0AInactive+article+pages%0D%0ARedirects+connected+to+a+Wikidata+item&ns%5B0%5D=1&doit=1 <nowiki>[?]</nowiki>]</abbr><br> {{#expr: {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Stub articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Outline articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Usable articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Informative articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Guide articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Star articles|R}}}}&nbsp;/&nbsp;{{#expr:{{NUMBEROFARTICLES:R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Title articles|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Gallery pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Unranked articles|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Inactive article pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Extra regions|R}}-{{/Ghost articles}}}}&nbsp;=&nbsp;{{#expr: ({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Stub articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Outline articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Usable articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Informative articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Guide articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Star articles|R}}) / ({{NUMBEROFARTICLES:R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Title articles|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Gallery pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Unranked articles|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Inactive article pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Extra regions|R}}-{{/Ghost articles}}) *100 round 3}}%</small> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr: ({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Stub articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Outline articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Usable articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Informative articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Guide articles|R}} + {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Star articles|R}}) / ({{NUMBEROFARTICLES:R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Title articles|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Gallery pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Unranked articles|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Inactive article pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Extra regions|R}}-37) *100}}}} |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:top; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <small>'''Has {{tl|IsPartOf}}'''&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr title="Click to find what's missing.">[{{Catscancall}}&depth=20&categories=District+articles%0D%0ACity+articles%0D%0ARegion+articles%0D%0AAirport+articles%0D%0APark+articles%0D%0ACountry+articles&comb%5Bunion%5D=1&templates_no=IsPartOf&combination=union&doit=1 <nowiki>[?]</nowiki>]</abbr><br> {{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}&nbsp;/&nbsp;{{#expr: {{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:District articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Rural area articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Region articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Park articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Dive guide articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Airport articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Country articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Continent articles|pages|R}}}} = {{#expr: {{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}} / ({{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:District articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Rural area articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Region articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Airport articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Dive guide articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Park articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Country articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Continent articles|pages|R}}) *100 round 3}}%</small> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr: {{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}} / ({{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:District articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Rural area articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Region articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Airport articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Dive guide articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Park articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Country articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Continent articles|pages|R}}) *100 }}}} |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:left; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <small>'''Has {{tl|IsPartOf}} param.'''&nbsp;&nbsp;[[:Category:Articles needing IsPartOf parameter|<abbr title="Click to find what's missing."><nowiki>[?]</nowiki></abbr>]]<br> {{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing IsPartOf parameter|R}}}}&nbsp;/&nbsp;{{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}&nbsp;=&nbsp;{{#expr: ({{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing IsPartOf parameter|R}}) / {{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}} *100 round 3}}%</small> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr: ({{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}-{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Articles needing IsPartOf parameter|R}}) / {{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}} *100 }}}} |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:left; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <small>'''Has {{tl|pagebanner}}'''&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr title="Click to find what's missing.">[{{Catscancall}}&categories=All+destination+articles%0D%0AItineraries%0D%0APhrasebooks%0D%0ATopic+articles%0D%0ADisambiguation&comb%5Bunion%5D=1&templates_no=pagebanner&doit=1 <nowiki>[?]</nowiki>]</abbr></small><br> <small>{{#expr:({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has default banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has standard banner|R}})}} / {{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Itineraries|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Phrasebooks|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Topic articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Title articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Gallery pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}}}} = {{#expr:({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has default banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has standard banner|R}})/({{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Itineraries|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Phrasebooks|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Topic articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Title articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Gallery pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}}) *100 round 3}}%</small> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr:({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has default banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has standard banner|R}})/({{PAGESINCATEGORY:All destination articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Itineraries|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Phrasebooks|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Topic articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Title articles|pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Gallery pages|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}}) *100 round 3}}}} |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:left; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <span style="font-size:smaller;">'''[[:Category:Has custom banner|Has custom banner]]'''&nbsp;&nbsp;[[:Category:Has default banner|<abbr title="Click to find what's missing."><nowiki>[?]</nowiki></abbr>]]</span><br> <span style="font-size:smaller;">{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}} / {{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has default banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}}} = {{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}/({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has default banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}) *100 round 3}}%</span> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}/({{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has default banner|R}}+{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has custom banner|R}}) *100 round 3}}}} |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:left; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <span style="font-size:smaller;">'''[[:Category:Has standard banner|Has standard banner]]'''&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr title="Click to find what's missing.">[{{Catscancall}}&categories=Disambiguation&negcats=Has+standard+banner&comb%5Bsubset%5D=1&comb%5Bunion%5D=1&atleast_count=1&doit=1 <nowiki>[?]</nowiki>]</abbr><br> {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has standard banner|R}}&nbsp;/&nbsp;{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}}&nbsp;=&nbsp;{{#expr: {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has standard banner|R}} / {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}} *100 round 3}}%</span> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr: {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has standard banner|R}} / {{PAGESINCATEGORY:Disambiguation|pages|R}} *100 }}}} |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:left; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <span style="font-size:smaller;">'''Cities with [[Template:Mapframe|mapframe]]'''&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr title="Click to find what's missing.">[{{Catscancall}}&depth=20&categories=City+articles&templates_no=mapframe&doit=1 <nowiki>[?]</nowiki>]</abbr></span><br> <span style="font-size:smaller;">{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has mapframe|R}} / {{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}} = {{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has mapframe|R}}/{{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}} *100 round 3}}%</span> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has mapframe|R}}/{{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}}*100 round 3}}}} |- | style="text-align:left; vertical-align:left; border-spacing:5px 5px;" | <span style="font-size:smaller;">'''Cities with [[Template:Routebox|routebox]]'''&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr title="Click to find what's missing.">[{{Catscancall}}&depth=20&categories=City+articles&templates_no=routebox&doit=1 <nowiki>[?]</nowiki>]</abbr></span><br> <span style="font-size:smaller;">{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has routebox|R}} / {{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}} = {{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has routebox|R}}/{{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}} *100 round 3}}%</span> {{/bar|width=100%|percent={{#expr:{{PAGESINCATEGORY:Has routebox|R}}/{{PAGESINCATEGORY:City articles|pages|R}}*100 round 3}}}} |}</div></td></tr></table> |} |- | {{Wikivoyage:Article status stats}} |- | {|style="text-align:center;width:100%;" |- | style="text-align:left;width:25%;" | {| class="wikitable" style="font-size:85%; width:100%;" | colspan="2" style="text-align:center; background:#F2F2F2; color: black;" | '''Page statistics''' |- | [[Special:AllPages|Content pages]] || style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBEROFARTICLES}} |- | All pages || style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBEROFPAGES}} |- | [[Special:ListFiles|Uploaded files]] || style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBEROFFILES}} |- | colspan="2" style="text-align:center; background:#F2F2F2; color: black;" | '''Edit statistics''' |- | Page edits || style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBEROFEDITS}} |- | Edits/page || style="text-align:right;" | {{#expr:{{NUMBEROFEDITS:R}}/{{NUMBEROFPAGES:R}} round 2}} |} | style="text-align:left;width:25%;" | {| class="wikitable" style="font-size:85%; width:100%;" | colspan="2" style="text-align:center; background:#F2F2F2; color: black;" | '''User statistics''' |- | Registered users ([[Special:ListUsers|list]])|| style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBEROFUSERS}} |- | Active users ([[Special:ActiveUsers|list]])|| style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBEROFACTIVEUSERS}} |- | [[Wikivoyage:Script policy|Bots]] ([https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:ListUsers&group=bot list])|| style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBERINGROUP:bot}} |- | [[Wikivoyage:Administrators|Administrators]] ([https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:ListUsers&group=sysop list])|| style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBEROFADMINS}} |- | [[Wikivoyage:Bureaucrats|Bureaucrats]] ([https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:ListUsers&group=bureaucrat list]) || style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBERINGROUP:bureaucrat}} |- | [[Wikivoyage:Autopatrollers|Autopatrollers]] ([https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Special:ListUsers&group=autopatrolled list])|| style="text-align:right;" | {{NUMBERINGROUP:autopatrolled}} |} | style="text-align:left;width:25%;" | {| class="wikitable" style="font-size:85%; text-align:center; width:100%;" | colspan="2" style="text-align:center; background:#F2F2F2; color: black;" | '''Administrator tools''' |- | [[Special:Block|Block]] || [[Special:Unblock|Unblock]] |- | [[Special:Nuke|Mass delete]] || [[Special:Undelete|Undelete]] |- | [[Special:UserRights|User rights]] || [[Special:Upload|Upload]] |- | colspan="2" | [[Special:UnwatchedPages|Unwatched pages]] |- | colspan="2" | [[Special:DeletedContributions|Deleted contributions]] |- | colspan="2" | [[Special:GlobalBlockWhitelist|Global block whitelist]] |} | style="text-align:center;width:25%; vertical-align:top;" | {| class="wikitable" style="font-size:85%; text-align:center; width:100%; vertical-align:top;" | style="text-align:center; background:#F2F2F2; color: black;" | '''My account''' |- | [[Special:Preferences|Preferences]] |- | [[Special:Notifications|Notifications]] |- | [[Special:Watchlist|Watchlist]] |- | [[Special:MyContributions|Contributions]] |} [[File:Gnome-colors-view-refresh.svg|25px|link={{fullurl:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|action=purge}}]]<big><span class="purgelink">[{{fullurl:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|action=purge}}<span title="Refresh this page"> '''''Refresh'''''</span>]</span></big> |} |} {{WikivoyageDoc|help}} aiv9lu9csgvnp827n5zfhpvbv4go9b8 1 218131 5288876 2026-06-06T14:45:33Z ~2026-33632-07 2419062 /* */ 5288876 wikitext text/x-wiki == Red images == {{swept}} A number of article still have broken images (name of the image appears in red). Is there a list of those? cssxh1fd5y6s7hgo17uxsrzdwknnwsc 5288877 5288876 2026-06-06T14:45:50Z ~2026-33632-07 2419062 Blanked the page 5288877 wikitext text/x-wiki phoiac9h4m842xq45sp7s6u21eteeq1 3 218133 5288901 2026-06-06T16:33:30Z Ikan Kekek 36420 /* External links */ new section 5288901 wikitext text/x-wiki == External links == Hello, &#126;2026-33492-54! [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, newcomers|Welcome]] to [[Wikivoyage:About|Wikivoyage]]. To help get you started contributing, we've created a [[Wikivoyage:Tips for new contributors|tips for new contributors]] page, full of helpful links about [[Wikivoyage:policies and guidelines|policies and guidelines]] and [[Wikivoyage:Manual of style|style]], as well as some important information on [[Wikivoyage:Copyleft|copyleft]] and basic stuff like [[Wikivoyage:How to edit a page|how to edit a page]]. If you need help, check out [[Wikivoyage:Help]], or post a message in the [[Wikivoyage:travellers' pub|travellers' pub]]. By the way, have you considered creating an account here? While you can absolutely keep contributing under a temporary account, it promises [[Wikivoyage:Why register|a bunch of benefits]], and no obligations. Thanks for updating the [[Busuanga Island]], but the link you added was deleted because it didn't look official. Please read [[WV:External links]] and [[WV:Don't tout]]. If you'd like to argue for why the link should be allowed, do so at [[Talk:Busuanga Island]], but do not edit war, or we'll have to block your editing privileges. Thanks! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 16:33, 6 June 2026 (UTC) gwlxooivicicqq1ytcwcge2v12xsh3v 3 218136 5289031 2026-06-07T10:19:44Z Ikan Kekek 36420 /* Touting warning */ new section 5289031 wikitext text/x-wiki == Touting warning == Hello, &#126;2026-33432-01! Thank you for contributing to Wikivoyage, but please note that one or more of your recent edits has been reverted as it appeared to be an attempt to use this site to advertise or promote a business or service. Wikivoyage is created by travellers ''for'' travellers, and while [[WV:Welcome, business owners|business owners and employees]] are welcome to contribute, use of this site for promotional purposes is not allowed. If you feel that your edits were incorrectly identified as promotional, '''please read Wikivoyage's [[WV:Don't tout|guidelines on identifying promotional edits]]'''. If, after reading that guideline, you ''still'' feel your edits were incorrectly removed, please use this [[WV:Using talk pages|talk page]] or the talk page of the article where your edit was removed to explain why your change was not promotional. Note that it is very important that you discuss your proposed change '''before''' re-adding it since repeated promotional edits can lead to a temporary block of your account's ability to edit Wikivoyage, and in serious cases the business in question may be blacklisted from Wikivoyage. It is not OK for you to list yourself in multiple articles. All your listings will be deleted. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:19, 7 June 2026 (UTC) 4mioxrahyi8r7fqlyom3200z0yg8b5b