See Tudor buildings on this Best of Great Britain 1 month itinerary

Great Britain is made up of 3 countries rich in history, culture, unforgettable landscapes and interesting foods. And you have one month holiday and you want to spend it holidaying in Great Britain. I know just how you are feeling. Excited. Daunted. Maybe a little stressed at how many amazing places there are to see and how you will fit seeing them all during 4 weeks in Britain? But it doesn’t have to be stressful organising a holiday to Britain as I have done the hard work for you.

In this post I will show you exactly how you can spend 1 month in Great Britain. It is based on my own British travels. I’ll advise on British transport and accommodation available to you plus, I’ve included lots of tips so you can start planning your memorable holiday in Britain for a month. 

 I’ve divided the post into 2 sections. The first section is devoted to planning your Great Britain itinerary which starts and finishes in London. While the second section is my suggested 4 week Britain itinerary. So let’s get into this 1 month Great Britain itinerary.

FYI – Britain is made up of the countries of England, Scotland and Wales. The UK is England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. But this itinerary is only covering a 1 month visit to Britain. If you want to visit the UK, check out my 1 month UK itinerary here.

Who is this Best of Britain 1 Month Itinerary for?

I have put together this 1 month Britain itinerary from places I visited while living in London on a UK working holiday. I originally wrote it for solo travellers to Britain, but I soon realised the itinerary would suit many different travellers wanting to holiday in Britain. Therefore, this 1 month Britain itinerary is for people travelling with friends or in a couple visiting Britain or a family visiting Britain with kids. 

Most of the places we visit in Britain are kid friendly places however, as a parent, you would use your discretion to ensure they were before entering. Such as, families travelling with small kids to Britain might find the London Dungeon with kids scary! But I think most of the places in this Britain guide are kid friendly, but levels of interest may differ. 

And I have suggested a variety of accommodation for all budgets and tastes. There are hostel beds for solo travellers to Britain and those on a tight budget to family friendly Britain accommodation for families to Britain with kids. One of the best things about British accommodation is the B&B (Bed and Breakfast). You will encounter these throughout Britain and they are great because you not only get a bed for the night, you get a full English Breakfast of a morning. I love staying in B&Bs. And they are easy to find too. I have usually found them by driving into town and looking for the signs but since covid, I usually book in advance via booking sites like Booking.com, because I am finding many people out travelling and sometimes accommodation is full.

1 Month Britain Itinerary At a Glance

Days

1 – 5 – London
6 – London to Brighton via Canterbury, Hastings
7 – Brighton
8 – drive along coast Brighton to Portsmouth to Southampton
9 – to Salisbury and Stonehenge – to Cornwall (evening somewhere in Cornwall
10 – drive coast to around Cornwall – Lands End
11 – Cornwall to Bath
12 – Bath
13 – to Cardiff
14 – Cardiff
15 – to Liverpool
16 – Liverpool
17 – Manchester
18 – drive coast to Glasgow via Blackpool
19 – Glasgow
20 – to Stirling and Scottish Highlands, Inverness
22 – Inverness – Loch Ness and Colluden Battlefield – stay Inverness
23 – Inverness to Edinburgh
24 – Edinburgh
25 – to York
26 – York
27 – to Nottingham
28 – to Stratford-upon-Avon and Oxford
29 – Oxford
30 – to London, return car – leave

1 Month Best of Britain Road Trip Highlights

Me at Stonehenge – just one of the amazing things to see in England

The Amazing Experiences included in my suggested itinerary include:

• Discover London and see places on the Monopoly Board.
• Visit Stonehenge, Bath, Cardiff, Liverpool, Glasgow, Edinburgh and York
• See the birthplace of Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon
• Get your Harry Potter on in Oxford and Edinburgh
• Experience the White Cliffs of Dover
• Visit museums including the National Wallace Museum in Stirling

Prepare for Your 1 Month Great Britain Trip

Is one Month Long Enough in Britain?

If I had the choice I would spend a lot longer than one month in Britain – and I did. I lived in England for 4 years on a working holiday. But one month in Britain is a very good start to begin discovering this amazing group of countries. Now before you read any further, I must warn you that this itinerary of Great Britain is jam-packed with things to see and do every day. Providing you with as many opportunities as possible to experience Great Britain.

Best Time to Visit Great Britain

You can visit Britain anytime however, they have very cold winters, particularly in Scotland where you can go skiing and snowboarding in the Highlands. So if you don’t want to be wearing 3 or 4 layers of clothes when outside and then boil inside from the central heating, I suggest visiting during the warmer months. However, the winter months can be magical with chestnuts being roasted by vendors on the streets and the Christmas lights are so bright and welcoming.

The summer months of June, July and August see the most overseas tourists visiting and this is when accommodation is the most expensive. I lived in the UK on a UK Working Holiday Visa so I experienced all the seasons. If I was going to visit as a tourist I would suggest visiting during the shoulder seasons of mid-Spring or mid-Autumn because the weather is warmer, accommodation not as expensive and you can enjoy doing all the touristy things with less people. But any time is a magical time to visit the UK as there is plenty of things to see and do.

READ MORE:  The winter months yield snow in Britain, particularly Scotland. You could work a snow season in Scotland. Read my post how you can work and ski UK.

TIP: You will be doing a lot of walking on this one month in Britain itinerary so I highly suggest you have comfortable shoes and clothes for the climate you will be visiting in.

How to Get to Britain

As Great Britain is an island and is surrounded by ocean, the best way to get there is to fly. Major international airport hubs are in London. Another option to arrive in Britain is by boat. A number of ocean liner cruisers and ferries visit British ports. There is also the train link Europe with London through the London Tunnel. But most international visitors to Britain arriving on their first visit arrive at London Heathrow Airport by plane. You can check airfares to London here on through Skyscanner.

How to Travel Around Britain

There are a number of options to travel around Britain during your 1 month holiday in Britain. They include by train, bus, ferry and car. This itinerary is best suited to travelling by car as it gives you the flexibility to go where you want, when you want, and deviate if you want to.  If you don’t have a car, you can hire one in Britain. Check out DiscoverCars for pricing and availability beforehand so you don’t miss out.

You can also undertake this 4 week British itinerary by bus or train. There is both an extensive network of buses and trains to get you from one end of Britain to the other. National Express is the national bus network in Britain linking major cities. You could undertake this itinerary by bus, but you will need to tweak it to get your bus connections. Visit the National Express website to start. If you prefer to travel Britain by train, there is an extensive network also. Check out the rail map here to see routes. The train system besides having point to point ticket sales has the BritRail Pass, so if you want to undertake this itinerary by train, you will need to tweak it to suit the timetable.

British Accommodation

There are many styles of accommodation in Britain to suit every budget and need. Accommodation comes in all sorts of sizes and shapes including hostels, hotels, B&Bs, camp sites, boats, apartments and even castles. My biggest tip for booking your accommodation is to book early, particularly during the summer months as many places book out well in advance. Many young and solo travellers stay at hostels and there are a number of small hostel chains such as Wombats, Generator and of course YHA (Youth Hostels Association). They provide all the services you need in a hostel from a bed, bathroom, kitchens to cook in, communal areas, cafes, bars to free wifi. I have listed some hostel contact details under each city but for more options check out HostelWorld to compare and book a hostel bed.

On saying book your accommodation early, I have, on many occasion decided to stop somewhere impromtu and needed to find accommodation. This is also a possibility.

Other affordable accommodation for those preferring a hotel room or apartment is available also. So if you are travelling with a friend, in a couple of need accommodation British accommodation for family, then check out Booking.com.. This is the place I book all my accommodation because of the range available and the ease of the process.

TIP: If you want to stay connected while in Britain, I suggest you get Pocket wifi and a British SIM card. And if you don’t know how to read Japanese, though many signs are in English, having access to Google will come in very handy, trust me on this! And downlowd apps such as Google Maps so you can find your way around – I used this regularly to find my way around the big British cities.

How Much Will One Month in Great Britain Cost?

To work out how much a trip to Japan will cost you, create a spreadsheet as follows. TIP: Pay as much as possible in advance so you know how much spending money you have to take.

Airfare to Great Britain $_____
Accommodation (per night) $_____ x 30 = $_______
Transport around Britain – flights $_______
Day tours $_______
Meals x 3 per day $_______
Entrance Fees $_____
Extras (souvenirs, etc) $______

What to Pack for a Trip in Britain

What to pack for your trip to Britain will depend on the season you are visiting. It is always best to dress in layers so you can take them off if hot, and put them on when cold. I would suggest if you are visiting at the height of winter to ensure you have thermal underwear and a good waterproof jacket. You will be doing plenty of walking on this driving tour of Britain so definitely invest in a good pair of walking shoes.

LWPT Tip: Before I begin my suggested itinerary I just want to recommend you purchase travel insurance. I know travel insurance is an extra cost on any holiday but it is well worth it. Things can happen when you least expect them. You don’t want to be stuck with thousands of dollars in medical bills or without any luggage. I recommend World Nomads and SafetyWing for travel insurance but if you don’t purchase a policy through either of them, please ensure you purchase travel insurance from somewhere else. You never know what might happen and you need to be covered.

Best of Britain 1 Month Itinerary

Days 1-5 – London

Get around on the London Underground while in London on this 1 month Britain itinerary

No trip to Great Britain should miss the capital of England, London. And this is where this 1 month Britain itinerary starts and ends. Use day 1 to get use to British time and start exploring this wonderful city of London. You will have it in your mind what you want to see and do in London. I usually start my visit to a new big city with a hop-on hop-off bus sightseeing tour of London. One of these tours takes me to all the places to see and provides a commentary of each place. Then I can decide which places I want to go back and visit longer.

The bus will swing by must-see attractions like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, St Paul’s Cathedral, Piccadilly Circus, Parliament Square, Big Ben, Harrods in Knightsbridge, Natural History Museum, V&A Museum, Hyde Park, Marble Arch, Kings Cross, Tower Bridge, Oxford Street shops, Madame Tussauds, the Tower of London, London Eye, The Shard and so much more. You can book you hop-on hop-off London sightseeing tour of London here.

• Day 1 in London – get use to British time and get your bearings on a hop-on hop-off bus around London. Followed by an evening in Covent Garden to get a meal and drink.
• Day 2 in London – your second day in London is all about Westminster and Buckingham Palace. Catch the tube or bus to Westminster and discover Westminster Abbey, the Houses of parliament with Big Ben, 10 Downing Street and nearby is Buckingham Palace and The Mall. Then take a walk through Hyde Park.
• Day 3 in London – discover the history of London with a visit to the Tower of London. Take a walk across Tower Bridge to the Southbank Area.
• Day 4 in London – shop till you drop  in on Bond or Oxford Streets or at Harrods in Knightsbridge.
• Day 5 is a London day trip to Windsor to visit Windsor Castle. This is the birthplace of Queen Victoria and you can see a lot of memorabilia from her childhood and reign here. Walk the cobbled streets and pick up a royal trinket or two. You can get to Windsor on a tour or catch the train. It is a very pleasant train ride and quite spectacular when Windsor Castle appears.

For more ideas on how to spend your 5 days in London, read my 5 Day London Itinerary here.

Where to Stay in London

 As you will be spending 5 nights here in London you may wish to choose accommodation with cooking facilities. This way you could have breakfast each morning. Make lunch to take with you for the day and cook your dinner if you don’t want to go out each night. Cooking your own meals will definitely help you save heaps of money.

If hostels are your choice of accommodation style then you are in luck because London has around 150 of them. I lived in London for 4 years and stayed in many hostels, hotels and B&Bs. Here are some hostels I have stayed in in London and can recommend.

YHA Central London
Astor Hyde Park
Generator London
The Walrus Bar and Hostel

If you are wanting a budget hotel then consider:

Earls Court Garden Hotel which is in Earls Court and is easy to reach from the airport and has lots of transport into central London.
Oxford Hotel
Lord Jim – I have stayed in this one and it was enjoyable. It has different styles of rooms available so if you are looking for family friendly London accommodation, check out Lord Jim.
Mayflower Hotel and Apartments – if travelling Britain with kids you may be interested in an London apartment to have access to cooking facilities, particularly if you are a budget conscious family visiting Britain.

For a bit of luxury consider The Savoy or The Ritz. For more London accommodation options visit Booking.com.

You could consider house sitting for your 5 days in London. Check out Trusted Housesitters for options.

Day 6 – Canterbury, Hastings and Brighton

See the spectacular White Cliffs of Dover on your Britain holiday

Distance London to Brighton via Canterbury and Hastings – about a couple of hundred miles which will be around 3 hours of driving.

Canterbury

Today, pick up your car and hit the road. Take the M2 and onto the A2 towards the East Coast. First stop is the town of Canterbury which is home to Canterbury Cathedral, founded 597AD. This beautiful cathedral is the headquarters of the Church of England. Take a walk around the ancient walls, originally built by the Romans that encircle the city centre. See beautiful old timber-framed houses built on cobbled streets. Step back in time on discover this beautiful old town. Maybe enjoy a meal before jumping in the car for our next stop on this British road trip.

White Cliffs of Dover

Next stop, White Cliffs of Dover which is the English coastline facing the Strait of Dover and France. These cliffs are composed of soft white limestone which give them their white chalk appearance. The cliffs are about 350 feet high and you can walk along the cliff face if you are feeling energetic and the weather is good. You will be treated to great views if you do! Start your visit at the Dover Visitor Centre where you can park and have access to a cafe, toilets and the walking tracks. Parking costs 5 pound per day or free for National Trust members. Did you take out membership?

Hastings

From Dover head to Hastings. This town is known for the 1066 Battle of Hastings which was fought on a field where the Battle Abbey now stands. If you love history, you will love this place and you will definitely want to visit the ruins of Hastings Castle which was once the home of William the Conqueror. There are also a couple of museums nearby, Hastings Fishermen’s Museum and Shipwreck Museum which document the maritime history of the area. 

Onto Brighton. Check into your accommodation for 2 nights as tomorrow you will have a full day discovering Brighton.

Where to Stay in Brighton – book for 2 nights.

Hostel: YHA Brighton, Selina Brighton Backpackers
Budget-Mid Range: Royal Albion Hotel, The Queensberry Hotel

For more accommodation options click here.

Day 7 – Brighton

Take a walk along Brighton Pier

Brighton is a seaside resort, well a British version of a seaside resort on the East Sussex coast of England. Realistically it is only 47 miles south of London and you could visit it doing a day trip from London. I have done it a few times by train from London but if you do, you won’t have the flexibility to visit the White Cliffs of Dover and Hastings.

I love visiting Brighton, particularly walking along the pier and stopping in the arcade to play a couple of games and to buy some Brighton rock – a hard lolly to suck. If the weather is warm, buy an ice cream and sit on the pebbly beach ‘ouch’, and enjoy the water. Or perhaps some fish and chips might be on the cards! As Brighton is rather compact it is easy to walk around. Many of the streets are cobbled so wear good walking shoes to see the old buildings and visit the Royal Pavilion. Enjoy a drink in one of the pubs before heading back to your accommodation for the night.

Day 8 – Portsmouth & Southampton

Me and my new bestie – Nelson

Today, day 8 of your 4 weeks in Great Britain, head along the coastline visiting the cities of Portsmouth and Southampton.

Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a port city on England’s south coast and home to its naval base. There is a wonderful dockyard area to discover, particularly the interactive National Museum of the Roayl Navy. You will see a number of ships here included a wooden warship HMS Victory, where Nelson died in the Battle of Trafalgar, the Tudor ship Mary Rose and HMS Warrior.

Southampton

Next onto Southampton, another port city on England’s south coast. It is only some 22 miles from Portsmouth, taking about half an hour to drive. And home to another museum, SeaCity Museum, that has an interactive model of the Titanic, which departed from Southampton in 1912. Southampton is also where a lot of ships leave on overseas voyages. It is where I left England from after my working holiday. I decided to sail from Southampton to Sydney taking 42 days. But that’s another post!

Spend the night in Southampton. Click here to check out options of where to stay in Southampton.

Day 9 – Winchester, Salisbury & Stonehenge

Believed to be King Arthur’s Round Table in Winchester Cathedral 

Winchester

Leave Southampton this morning and head inland for the short drive to Winchester, 12 miles taking 20 minutes or so. If you are a history buff you will love Winchester. It is known for the medieval Winchester Cathedral housing the 17th-century Morley Library, Winchester Bible and a Norman crypt. But most notably, you can see the medieval round table hanging on the wall that is believed to be that of the round table of King Arthur. And nearby are the ruins of Wolvesey Castle and the Winchester City Mill which is a working 18th-century corn mill. Lots of history to discover this morning in Winchester.

Salisbury and Stonehenge

After lunch head to Salisbury which is about about 24 miles away taking some 45 minutes to drive. In Salisbury you may want to visit the famous Salisbury Cathedral, but as you just visited Winchester Cathedral you may wish to head straight to Stonehenge which is only 10 miles away, or about 25 minutes.

Stonehenge is an iconic symbol of Britain with a history spanning some 4,500 years with different meanings to people. After parking in the car park visit the information centre to learn about Stonehenge before walking under the main road to the field where the sacred stone circle making up Stonehenge reside. You will need an entrance ticket to Stonehenge which you can purchase here. Budget to spend a couple of hours here, then if getting late you could look for accommodation in Salisbury or begin the trek to Cornwall and stop in one of the many towns for the night.

READ MORE: How to Visit Stonehenge.

Days 10-11 Cornwall

Plymouth Harbour – where The Mayflower left from

I’ve left these couple of days in Cornwall open so you can drive along the coast and explore. There are so many historical and beautiful towns on the water to discover with many of them historical such as Plymouth, where The Mayflower left and took the first settlers to America. Then there is Looe, Falmouth, Marazion with its famous St Michael’s Mount and Penzance meaning holy headland which is the most westerly major Cornwall town and a thriving hub on the Land’s End peninsula. Each town has a fascinating history, striking architecture, many ancient sites and great views over the English Channel.

Take your time exploring this area of England, and for somewhere to stay, there is plenty of accommodation available. I’m not recommending any one place in Cornwall as there are so many beautiful places to stay and you may not know where you will be with so much to see. So click on the link for Booking.com and search for accommodation in the town you find yourself in.

Days 12-13 Bath

Spend time learning about Bath’s ancient baths

Today, on day 12 of this 1 month Great Britain itinerary leave Cornwall and head to Bath taking around 2-3 hours depending on what part of Cornwall you are leaving from.

You might be itching to see the Roman baths, but start your day on the Bath Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus which will take you to all the places of note. Before deciding which ones you wish to spend more time at. Then spend the rest of the day discovering the Roman era natural hot spring water baths, built in 60AD that are still operating today. Then see Bath’s honey-coloured Georgian architecture with the iconic Royal Crescent and the majestic Circus. End the day with a good meal in one of Bath’s pubs. Then maybe have a nightcap before heading back to your accommodation.

Where to Stay in Bath – book for 2 nights

Hostel: YHA Bath Hostel, Bath Backpackers
Hotel: St Christophers Inn, The Z Hotel Bath

For more accommodation options in Bath click here.

Day 13 – To Cardiff

yep – another castle – Cardiff Castle

Distance Bath to Cardiff – 1 hour 5 mins, 54 miles afternoon Cardiff

After breakfast, jump in your car, cross the massive Severn Bridge into Wales, heading for the capital of Cardiff. On arriving in Cardiff, find a place to park and get to know this beautiful and compact city. Maybe take Cardiff’s Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus. The head back to visit the medieval Cardiff Castle located in the city centre before enjoying a meal along the ultramodern Cardiff Bay Waterfront. Why not also visit the Millennium Stadium, known as Principality Stadium since 2016 and is home of Welsh rugby.

Where to Stay in Cardiff for the night.

There are a number of hostels close to the city centre – Bunkhouse (0.3km) and The Riverhouse (0.7km) for those of you looking for a bed in a dorm room. For a budget hotel try the Ibis Budget Hotel Cardiff City or the Holiday Inn. Happy to splurge for your time in Cardiff check into The Parkgate Hotel or the St David’s Cardiff an IHG Hotel. For more accommodation options in Cardiff click here.

Days 15-16 – Liverpool

See the Fab 4 in Liverpool

Distance Cardiff to Liverpool is some 200 miles taking around 3-4 hours along the M6. You could stop in Birmingham on the way if you wanted to or just head straight to Liverpool. Liverpool is a maritime city where the River Mersey meets the Irish Sea. So if you were going to Ireland, this could be a jumping off point with regular ferry sailings from here to Ireland. I loved visiting the waterfront with its iconic mercantile buildings as the ‘Three Graces’ – Royal Liver Building, Cunard Building and Port of Liverpool Building.

Beatlemania

Aside from this, Liverpool is famously known as the hometown of The Beatles. And there are plenty of Beatlemania related places to visit. Visit The Beatles Story and Museum while taking the Liverpool and Beatles Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour. Perhaps include a visit to the world-famous ‘Cavern Club’ on Mathew Street. Then take walk around the Albert Docks along the Mersey river and discover historic architecture and local Liverpudlian lifestyle. Maybe even get a photo with the fab four statue!

Enjoy an evening in one of the pubs and discover a ‘Scouse stew’ with a pint before heading to your accommodation for the night.

Where to Stay in Liverpool:

Hostel: YHA Liverpool Albert Docks, Liverpool Central YHA
Budget-mid-range Hotel: Easy Hotel Liverpool, Tune Hotel Liverpool

For more accommodation options in Liverpool click here.

Day 17 – Manchester

Manchester United Stadium

From Liverpool it is an hours drive (35 miles) to Manchester. Manchester is an interesting city to spend the morning. It was at the centre of the industrial revolution and Manchester was put on the world map for its cotton and textiles trade. It is the city that has produced many successful bands – the Hollies in the 1960s and in the 1980s and 1990s, Joy Division, New Order, The Smiths, Simply Red, Inspiral Carpets, Stone Roses, Happy Mondays and of course, Oasis. And don’t forget it is home to two football clubs – Manchester United and Manchester City. If seeing a game of football is one of your goals, you may need to rearrange the day you visit Manchester on this itinerary. Pretty easy to do as many of the large cities visited on this itinerary, particularly around Northern England, are relatively close to each other.

Click here to find a place to stay in Manchester.

Days 18-19 – to Glasgow

Glasgow

Glasgow is such an underrated Scottish city, yet it is the biggest in Scotland. Known for being bleak with plenty of housing commission dwellers Glasgow has come into its own with many vibrant pubs and coffee shops to enjoy. It is also used as a filming location for many TV shows including Taggart and Outlander. Highlights to see in Glasgow include:

• Glasgow Cathedral
• Riverside Museum
• St Vincent Place
• Glasgow University to name a few.

Day 20-21 – Glasgow to Scottish Highlands (Stirling & Fort William)

Wallace Monument

Today sees you hit the 3 week mark in this 4 week Great Britain itinerary – isn’t it going too fast! But we are now headed to one of my favourite places on earth – the Scottish Highlands. The first time I visited the Scottish Highlands I stood in the Cairngorm Mountains and thought, ‘I could easily move abroad and live here’. Maybe its because my surname is McCullum that I feel this way! But I could easily move to Scotland, rent or buy a stone farmhouse and live in the Scottish Highlands. In the meantime……

After breakfast, head to Stirling, only half an hour or so drive away and one of the must visit places in the Scottish Highlands. Stirling is one of my favourite Scottish towns, it’s got a beautifully preserved Old Town with many historic buildings. And it has cobbled streets so ensure you have good flat walking shoes so you can walk around the ramparts of Stirling Castle. A must see is a visit to the famous Wallace Monument standing on the summit of Abbey Craig. This honours the legendary Braveheart freedom fighter, William Wallace. You know, the one made famous in that movie with Mel Gibson as William Wallace.

Can I suggest while in Stirling, introduce yourself to whisky. There are many whisky distilleries in Scotland all making fine single malt whisky and Stirling Distillery is just one of them. And lucky for you, in the shadow of Stirling Castle, you will find Stirling Distillery. Discover how whisky is made and maybe have a taste or two!

I hope you are under the limit to drive up through the picturesque highlands to Inverness, which is a good 3 hours of driving away. Lucky there are a number of stops including Glencoe, one of Scotlands ski towns to stop at. But keep going to Fort William on the shores of Loch Linne. Often talked about in the ‘Outlander’ Netflix series, roam around Fort William and see what you recognise. Fort William is known as the gateway to Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak and if you are visiting during the winter months you may wish to include some skiing or snowboarding into your stay here on the Nevis Range Mountain Resort. If not, visit the West Highland Museum focusing on life in the area and keep your whisky tasting pallet up with a trip to the Ben Nevis Distillery. Spend the night here in Fort William.

If you are a working holiday in the UK and you love skiing and snowboarding, why not get a job in the Scottish ski fields. Scotland has a good snow season from November to March and need staff to ensure the season goes off without a hitch. If you would like to work and ski Scotland, read how to do it here.

Where to stay in Fort William

Hostel: Glen Nevis Youth Hostel, Fort William Backpackers
Budget-Mid Range Hotel: Muthu Fort William Hotel, Nevis Bank Inn

For more accommodation options in Fort William click here.

Day 22 – to Inverness – Loch Ness and Colluden Battlefield

Urquart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness – Keep a look out for the Loch Ness Monster

After breakfast head north and deeper into the dramatic Scottish Highlands to Loch Ness. You’ve got a number of options here to spot ‘Nessie’, the Loch Ness Monster. You can walk to the 1000 year old Urquhart Castle on the banks of the loch to explore it and to look for Nessie. Or you could take a Loch Ness Cruise in search of Nessie.

After a wonderful morning head to Inverness via Colluden Battlefield which is only 8 miles or so outside of Inverness. The Colluden Battlefield is the site of last battle of the Jacobite Rising – where the Scots were fighting the English for their freedom. Alas they lost with a great loss of life. You may have seen this in the Outlander series. Here, at the Colluden Battlefield Visitor Centre you discover all about this battle and what led up to it. The places almost comes alive through wonderful interactive exhibitions and artefacts. Then walk outside into the field and along the battle lines of the clans. Then onto Inverness for the evening and enjoy dinner in one of its quaint pubs before retiring for the evening.

Where to Stay in Inverness

Hostel: Inverness Youth Hostel, Hillview House Hotel Inverness
Budget-Mid Range Hotel: Colluden House Hotel, The Royal Highland Hotel

For more places to stay in Inverness click here.

Day 23 – to Edinburgh

Glenroy in the Scottish Highlands

Many use Inverness as a base to explore Loch Ness and Colluden. However, Inverness is known as the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands and has a number of places to see. Start with the Old Town where you will find Inverness Cathedral and the Old High Church. As I have said before, I like to do the hop-on hop-off bus tours, and Inverness has one. This will take up your morning, then you hop in the car and head to Edinburgh via the A9 covering 200 or so miles during the 3 hour drive.

On the way to Edinburgh you could stop at Aviemore, often referred to as Aussiemore due to the number of Australians who get jobs here during the Scottish ski season. Aviemore is at the base of the Cairngorm Mountains which have a great ski season plus plenty of hikes in the warmer months. There are other towns to stop in along the way including Perth before arriving in Edinburgh early evening. Maybe grab dinner in a pub in Edinburgh.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh – book for 2 nights

Hostel: Castle Rock Hostel, Kick Ass Greyfriars Hostel
Budget-Mid Range Hotel: The Scotsman Hotel, Novotel Edinburgh Centre

Day 24 – Edinburgh

Overlooking Edinburgh through a gun turret at Edinburgh Castle

Wake up in Edinburgh and get your walking shoes on because you will be doing a lot of walking today. But first, ride aboard the Edinburgh hop-on hop-off bus. it will take you to all the places in Edinburgh of note and interest. Then head to Edinburgh Castle. You can’t miss it sitting high on a crag overlooking the city. Take a tour and see where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to her son James and also the spikes where William Wallace’s head was displayed after his death. Then walk the Royal Mile and visit a few shops on the way down to Holyrood Palace. Holyrood Palace is the home of the British monarch when in Edinburgh. These things will mostly take you all day, depending on your interest. Other things to do in Scotland include:

• Take a walking tour of the city, such as a Potter-themed tour and see if some parts look strangely familiar to those penned in the first Harry Potter novel.
• See St Giles Cathedral.
• Hike up Arthur’s Seat for great views of the city.
• Visit Princes Street Gardens.
• Explore the Museum of Scotland or the National and Portrait Galleries.
• Enjoy more whisky at the Scotch Whisky Experience.
• Shop along George Street.

Finish your day in one of the quirky bars, cosy traditional pubs or craft beer house in the Old Town for a meal – with or without haggis – and a dram of whiskey before retiring to your accommodation.

Where to stay in Edinburgh: For accommodation options in Edinburgh for your 2 night stay click here.

Day 25 – Edinburgh to York

Today you must say goodbye to Scotland and make your way back into the north of England. I suggest taking the A1 which hugs the coastline for some great scenery and cute towns. A couple of hours drive will see you at the first stop of Alnwick Castle in Alnwick which is the residence of The 12th Duke of Northumberland. It was built following the Norman conquest in 1096 but you will most likely recognise it as being the place a number of movies and TV shows are filmed. Including Downton Abbey, Black Adder and two Harry Potter films (The Philosopher’s Stone and The Chamber of Secrets).

Continue into Yorkshire, and to the county’s capital, York. This is a charming walled city with winding cobbled streets that is overlooked by the largest gothic cathedral in northern Europe – York Minster. As you will be arriving late in the day check into your accommodation before heading out for dinner.

Where to Stay in York – book for 2 nights

Hostel: Safestay York, YHA York
Budget-Mid Range Hotel: Ibis York Centre, Doubletree by Hilton

For more accommodation options in York click here.

Day 26 – York

York Minster dominates the skyline of the city of York

Spend the whole day today exploring York. York is a walled city in northeast England that was founded by the ancient Romans. Its huge 13th-century Gothic cathedral, York Minster, has medieval stained glass and two functioning bell towers. The City Walls form a walkway on both sides of the River Ouse. The Monk Bar gate houses an exhibition tracing the life of 15th-century Plantagenet King Richard III. The best things to see and do in York include:

• Go on the York Hop-on Hop-off sightseeing bus tour
• Walk the walls around York
• Visit York Minster to discover its centuries of history and get the best views over the city
• See York Castle Museum
• Discover the viking history at the JORVIK Viking Centre

Day 27 – To Nottingham

Me and my friend Robin Hood

Distance from York to Nottingham is a leisurely 88 miles which will take about 1.5 hours along the M1. You will be there by mid-morning and able to enjoy Nottingham for the rest of the day. This area is known for being where Robin Hood spent a lot of time robbing the rich and giving to the not so rich. You could visit Sherwood Forest not to far away or the hilltop Nottingham Castle Museum and Art Gallery. However, Nottingham is also known for once being the lace capital of the world. You can discover all about lace, and maybe buy some, in the Lace Market area.

Where to stay in Nottingham

Hostels: Igloo Hybrid, Midtown Lodge
Budget-Mid Range Hotels: Park Plaza Nottingham, Doubletree by Hilton

For more accommodation options in Nottingham click here.

Day 28 – To Stratford-upon-Avon & Oxford

Anne Hathaway Cottage

From Nottingham head to Stratford-upon-Avon, home of Shakespeare – William Shakespeare that is. It is only 83 miles away so will take around 1.5 hours to reach. Stratford-upon-Avon is a medieval market town which William Shakespeare lived in the 16th century. Shakespeare is best known for his sonnets and plays such as ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and ‘Hamlet’. Things to see and do while here include:

• Visit Swan Theatre on the banks of the River Avo
• See Anne Hathaways Cottage and Gardens (Shakespeare’s wife)
• Walk along the river and through the town with its shopping areas and quirky cafes.
• Maybe take a canal boat tour.

After most of the day in Stratford-upon-Avon jump in the car and head to Blenheim Palace in the town of Woodstock. Blenheim Palace is the seat of the Dukes of Marlborough and is the only country house in England to hold the title of palace. Sir Winston Churchill, one of the UK most prominent Prime Ministers was born here. Take a walk through the palace and the grounds. It is then only a 20 minute drive to city of Oxford – the next stop on this itinerary through Great Britain.

Where to Stay in Oxford – book for 2 nights

Hostel: Central Backpackers
Budget-Mid Range Hotels: Holiday Inn Oxford, Leonardo Royal Hotel

For more accommodation options in Oxford click here.

Day 29 – Oxford

Oxford University – scenes from Harry Potter movies filmed here

After breakfast take the Oxford Hop-on Hop-off sightseeing bus to see all the sights of the city before going back to some of the notable spots. If you are a Harry Potter lover, get your fix with a walking tour around the incredible Oxford Colleges and see where some of the scenes of the movies were made. End your day in one of the vibrant pubs enjoying a good English feed and a pint, possibly with a bunch of students!

Day 30 – Drive to London, return car and leave

Leave Oxford behind for the journey back to London. Return your rental car and leave the UK and Ireland for home.

And So Ends this 1 Month Great Britain itinerary

All good things must come to end, including this holiday of a lifetime in Great Britain for a month. On this last day of your 4 weeks in Britain, depending on where you are going to next, you possibly could have extra time in London or head to Heathrow Airport for your journey home. I hope you have had the best time in Britain on your 1 month Britain itinerary. This itinerary was designed to see the best ‘bits’ of Britain, but I do hope it is only the first of many visits to Great Britain for you. I’d love to hear your thoughts on my 1 month itinerary for Great Britain in the comments following.

Who doesn’t love a good view? A view over a city or a natural wonder! There is something about undertaking a journey only to be treated to a wonderful view. This post is divided into two sections. One for fabulous views from tall buildings that provide spectacular views over a city and the second for views over natural wonders, which are often reached after walking or hiking. Are you ready to be treated to some great views from the top from all over the world?

View from the Top Over Natural Wonders

Kicking off this view from the top post is one of the best views I think I have seen too. But so many to be impressed with! Get inspiration from the following views from the top over natural wonders and maybe include one of the views from the top in your next work and travel adventure.

Horseshoe Bend Overlook, Arizona, USA

Favourite view from the top of Shweta @ Zest in a Tote

Horseshoe Bend

One of the best views I’ve ever seen is Horseshoe Bend. You can do challenging hikes and get great aerial views. But many times, it is possible to reach a point easily and get epic views. Horseshoe Bend is the latter. The mighty Colorado River meanders and bends in the shape of a perfect horseshoe. All you have to do is hike for about 1 km to the overlook point. This view here of the Colorado River is the most up-close-and-personal you can get from a rim. It would take you about an hour or so to do the round trip and take in the stellar views.

Horseshoe Bend is located in Page Arizona and most travelers combine a visit to Antelope Canyons along with this. You can cover Lower Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend easily in a day. Both the sites are less than 10 miles apart. There is a sign for the Horseshoe Bend Overlook and a car park outside that. It is best to carry cash for the car parking. Make sure you are protected against the strong sun, wear a cap and put on sunscreen.

Joffre Lakes, BC, Canada

Favourite view of Taryn @ Happiest Outdoors

Upper Joffre viewpoint – a great view from the top

You will have to sweat a bit to get one of the best views from the top in British Columbia, Canada since it’s located at the top of the Joffre Lakes Trail. This gorgeous hike is located in Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, three hours north of Vancouver, near the towns of Pemberton and Whistler.

There are incredible views of lakes and mountains all along the hike. But the best views are at the top on the shores of Upper Joffre Lake. From there you can look across the brilliant blue waters of the lake and the tumbling glaciers. On warm days, watch and listen carefully and you will see chunks of ice breaking off and cascading down the rocky slopes.

To get to the viewpoint, you will need to hike 4.5 km each way. Your route takes you past Lower Joffre Lake and Middle Joffre Lake, both of which have incredible views. But keep going to Upper Joffre Lake for the best scenery. The trail is moderately difficult with a very steep middle section, but it’s doable for people with average fitness.  Plan to spend about four hours on the hike, but allow extra time for all the photos you will want to take!

Since the trail is so popular, you must get a day pass to hike here between May and October. Each person requires their own pass and passes are free. You can get a day pass on the BC parks website starting at 7 am two days before your trip. But act fast as passes run out in minutes on summer weekends.

Grindewald, Switzerland

Favourite view from the top of Kristin @ Global Travel Escapades

The gorgeous view from the top of Grindelwald

For those traveling through Switzerland, one place to spend some time wandering around is Grindelwald first. This is where you can catch some of the most incredible panoramic views. From the top of Grindelwald, you’ll be able to admire the snow-capped peaks of the Jungfrau region, see massive glaciers, and even notice the little dots that are the wooden houses in the village below. 

To reach this viewing point, there are two different routes. The first is to hike to the top, which is free and not too difficult to do. On average, it takes a person about 2 hours to reach the top. But, for those who aren’t up for the hike, the second option is to take a 25-minute gondola ride to the top. This costs about $35 USD one way. No matter what route you take, don’t miss out on seeing the gorgeous view from the top of Grindelwald.

READ MORE: Jungfraujoch – See the Top of Europe

Playa Carrizalillo, Puerto Escondido, Mexico

Favourite view from the top of Ashlea @ She Roams About

View from the top of the stairs at Playa Carrizalillo, Puerto Escondido, Mexico

Finding the hidden beach of Playa Carrizalillo is one of the best things to do in Puerto Escondido on the Oaxaca Coast of Mexico. You’ll find the entrance to this stunning beach, tucked away behind the strip of restaurants on the Rinconada in the Bacocho neighbourhood of town. Follow the path until you reach a staircase and as you descend beneath the treeline you will uncover the most stunning view in town

The view from the stairs reveals a hidden bay peeking out behind the jungle brush while the turquoise waters lap against the sandy beach. This lookout provides the perfect photo op and view of the amazing Pacific sunset.

The beach below is open to the public but is unknown to most tourists keeping it free of crowds. Because it is protected by the shoreline, this beach is the perfect place to swim, take a surf lesson or relax with a cold drink but don’t forget to stop on the stairs to snap a gorgeous photo first. And before you head all the way down, don’t forget that the only way in and out is by way of 157 steps.

READ MORE: Another fabulous beach holiday area in Mexico is Cancun, here is one of the best places to stay.

Inspiration Point, Grand Teton National Park, USA

Favourite view from the top of Natalie @ Camping Kiddos

View of Jenny Lake and beyond in Grand Teton National Park

One of the best views in all of Grand Teton National Park can be found at Inspiration Point. To get to the rocky outcropping with this view, you’ll need to start from the Jenny Lake Visitor Center inside the park, and hike the Jenny Lake Trail going clockwise. Then, you’ll take a left at the boat dock on the other side of the lake, and the trail will start to climb a bit.

After another mile of hiking through the beautiful lodgepole pine forest, you’ll have ascended more than 1500 feet in elevation, and the view will be mere feet away. The last part of the trail gets very steep and rocky, so take your time. There aren’t any trail fees if you approach Inspiration Point this way, which is about 5.4 miles round trip.

If you’d like to cut off about 4 miles from this trip, you can take the round trip boat tour across Jenny Lake for $20 per adult and $12 per child. The hike and boat ride are a blast for all ages, and they are must do activities in Grand Teton National Park with kids.

Gadsar Pass, Kashmir, India

Favourite view from the top of Raksha @ Solo Passport

Kashmir Great Lakes

One of the most beautiful views that you can get in Kashmir, India is at Gadsar Pass. At an altitude of 13715 feet, Gadsar Pass is the highest point in the Kashmir Great Lakes trek. The trek is in one of the remote areas of Kashmir in India and is a multi day difficult trek. It involves trekking for long days and camping at night. You need reasonable fitness to do this trek.

On day 4 of the trek, you trek from Vishnusar to Gadsar Pass. From Gadsar Pass, you get to see the twin lakes Vishnusar and Kishansar. And the view from Gadsar Pass is breathtakingly beautiful. With untouched landscapes and pristine beauty, the view from the top is totally worth the hard trek.

As the trek requires permits from the Indian Army and government, it is advisable to do the trek with any trekking agency. During the trek, the trekkers are checked and verified at various points. The trek is open only for a few months in a year between July and September as the weather is pleasant and not too cold.

READ MORE: Other great views in India – The Taj Mahal

Mount Batur, Bali, Indonesia

Favourite view from the top of Victoria @ Guide Your Travel

Mount Batur

Nestled in the heart of Bali, Mount Batur offers an unforgettable sunrise experience that will leave you in awe. Rising early in the morning, adventurers embark on a challenging trek to the summit. The journey, typically undertaken on foot, winds through lush forests and rocky terrain. While demanding, the ascent rewards hikers with an unparalleled view of the sun ascending over the horizon.

The sky erupts in a brilliant palette of oranges, pinks, and purples as the sun peeks above the clouds. The view from the summit reveals the expansive Lake Batur, with its serene waters reflecting the changing colours of the sky. On clear days, the distant silhouette of Mount Agung adds to the majesty of the scene.

There’s usually a small fee for local guides and park entry to enjoy this natural wonder. We recommended setting out before dawn to ensure a prime viewing spot and to witness nature’s daily masterpiece from the summit of Mount Batur. The sunrise from this vantage point is a moment of pure magic, etching a memory that will last a lifetime.

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Favourite view from the top of Karla @ Colorful Journeys

A great spot to take pictures of the great view is by the small pagoda overlooking the rice fields of Ninh Binh

Looking for the best views in Vietnam? Head to Ninh Binh and climb the Hang Mua Cave viewpoint. Standing at 88 meters high, you’ll be greeted by a sweeping panoramic view of Ninh Binh, stretching from endless rice fields to towering karst mountains. What sets Hang Mua Cave viewpoint apart is the abundance of spots where you can stop to enjoy the breathtaking views. However, most of these spots at the top don’t have safety railings in place, so watch your step near the cliffs. 

To reach the summit, you’ll need to climb about 500 stone stairs meticulously carved into the mountainside. These stairs are uneven and quite steep, so pay close attention to your steps. Depending on your physical condition, it will take you around 15 to 20 minutes to reach the highest point.  

The viewpoint is open daily from 6 am to 7 pm, with the best times to visit being early in the morning or at sunset to avoid crowds. There is an entrance fee of 100,000 VND (about $4 USD). 

Los Leones Trail, Pacific Palisades, CA

Favourite view from the top of Marshall @ TravelBreakdown

View from atop Los Leones Trail

Los Leones Trail is located in the beautiful Santa Monica Mountain Range in the Pacific Palisades. This hiker’s paradise boasts a breathtaking view of the California coastline from the dramatic bluffs of Malibu all the way to the sparkling beaches of Venice.

Boasting an abundance of natural beauty, this dazzling trail is right off of the Pacific Coast Highway, 20 miles west of central Los Angeles. Arriving at the trailhead is easy, and there is a good deal of free parking at the entrance. While Los Leones is entirely free to walk, you’ll need to leave your furry friends and valuables at home.

The length of the Los Leones Trail is approximately 1.3 miles round trip. The difficulty is generally rated for intermediate hikers since there is an elevation gain of about 500ft. If you’re an advanced hiker, you can continue on to the Paseo Miramar Viewpoint (4.9 miles out and back) or even the Parker Mesa Overlook (7.1 miles roundtrip).

Although this trail may be more challenging to walk for amateurs, the panoramic view at the top is worth the sweat. To the southeast, you can see almost all the way to downtown Los Angeles, and to the west is the gorgeous Pacific Ocean.

There isn’t a better spot than Los Leones to take in the entire coastline. If you’re eager to absorb the natural wonders of Southern California, this spectacular vista will not disappoint.

READ MORE: While in California, spend time in Los Angeles.

Yates Mountain, Rocky Mountains, Canada

Favourite view from the top of Melanie @ The World TravelGirl 

View from the top of Yates Mountain, Canada

When visiting the Rocky Mountains in Canada, you will see the most amazing, picturesque views that will take your breath away. The Canadian Rockies run south through Western Canada, with almost half of the 900 mile (1500 km) range, forming the border between the provinces of British Columbia and Alberta. 

One of the most amazing views within the Rockies is from the top of Yates Mountain. To get to Yates Mountain, you have to drive just over an hour west from Calgary, Alberta or 25 minutes east from Banff, Alberta.  Yate Mountain is off Highway 40, accessed at Barrier Lake. The hike up to the top of the mountain is either 4 miles (6.5km) or 6.2 miles (10km) depending which route you take. The elevation gain to the top is 1745 feet (532 meters). Plan to spend 1.5 – 2 hours getting to the top.

The trek up the mountain is considered moderate, mostly through forests until you get to the last mile of the hike. Once at the top, you have the most amazing view of Kananaskis Country, Barrier Lake and Mount Baldy in the back. It’s a true picture of the beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

Ooh Aah Point, Grand Canyon (USA)

Favourite view from the top of Jacoba @ Operas Metco

Ooh Aah Point, Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon (Arizona, USA) is one of the most epic places in the world. The canyon is carved by the Colorado River and has a depth of 4,000 to 6,000 feet. You can view the Grand Canyon from several viewpoints, especially on the South Rim which is the most visited part of the park. The most epic viewpoints include Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Hopi Point. It’s easy to spend a full day exploring them all. Most of the viewpoints are easy to reach by either car or a shuttle bus. 

The best viewpoint of the Grand Canyon is Ooh Aah Point, and to get there, you have to put on your hiking boots. You have to walk down South Kaibab Trail, 1.8 miles one way with a 600-foot descent. Ooh Aah Point is perched on a rocky outcrop and it offers an exceptional panoramic view of the Grand Canyon’s inner depths. This is the best way to see colorful rock layers and the Colorado River far below. The climb back up is hard, but it’s definitely worth it!

What makes this viewpoint better than all the other ones? Not only because it feels like a reward after you had to work for it, but this is the best way to actually feel the magnitude of this natural wonder. Highly recommended!

READ MORE: Definitely visit the Grand Canyon on any trip to the US. Here’s some inspiration to organise a USA holiday with my 1 Month Across USA road trip. 

Niagara Falls from the top of the Skylon Tower

Favourite view from the top of Chanelle @ Chasing Chanelle

View from Skylon Tower of the American and Canadian sides of Niagara Falls

One of the most spectacular sights to see in all of North America is Niagara Falls. As a popular tourist destination on the US-Canada border, there are plenty of different vantage points to take in the might of the falls from both the Canadian and American sides.

However, the absolute best view is actually from above, which can be seen from the top of the Skylon Tower. This 775-foot tower located on the Canadian side of the falls has both a revolving restaurant and observatory which offers full panoramic views of the water cascading over the 50-meter-high cliffs below.

And not only do you get to see the entirety of Niagara Falls in one frame, but you also get impressive views as far as the eye can see of Buffalo New York, the Niagara region, and the Toronto Skyline.

To get to the top of the Skylon Tower you have to take the Yellow Bug Elevator up. The elevator has a glass-enclosed exterior, so you already get to start enjoying the breathtaking views on the way up.

Tickets to ride the elevator and access the observation deck cost $19 CAD for adults and $9.50 CAD for children. Although if you’re planning to dine at the restaurant, admission is free, and you will be able to enjoy the 360° views over lunch or dinner.

READ MORE: Include a visit to Niagara Falls on your Working Holiday in Canada.

Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan

Favourite view from the top of Simon @ Backpack Moments

Charyn Canyon – the Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan

The Charyn Canyon is a marvelous natural wonder located about 200 km east of Kazakhstan’s biggest city and former capital – Almaty. It’s often called the Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan and is over 80 km long complete with red sandstone formations, deep gorges, and rocks naturally sculpted over millions of years. It’s one of the most recognizable and most visited attractions in Kazakhstan.

Backpacking in the Almaty Region is challenging as public transport in the vast steppes of South Kazakhstan is sparse and unreliable. There are however many very affordable organized day tours that bring visitors right at the entrance of Charyn Canyon. There is a choice to be made there – go down inside the gorge or hike up to have some of the most unique views from the top of the canyon.

At the edges of the canyon, a 360-degree vista opens up. Visitors are challenged to find patterns and figures in the rocks: for example columns and whole fortresses, human faces, and comic book characters. The so-called “Valley of Castles” is of particular interest – a rock formation that is strikingly similar to a whole Medieval fortress with spires, turrets, and ramparts.

The best time to go to the Charyn Canyon is close to sunset when the colors change from red to pink, then orange, and at times even purple. If you’re looking for an otherworldly experience, consider camping there overnight – the starry sky is worth it.

Sulphur Mountain, Banff

Favourite view from the top of Karen @ Forever Karen

View from Sulphur Mountain

While Banff National Park has several gondolas, the one to Sulphur Mountain offers the best 360-degree views. From the town of Banff, it’s a 12-minute drive on Mountain Avenue to reach the Banff Gondola parking area.

During the peak of summer, you’ll need to pre-purchase your ticket. Ticket prices vary with day of the week and popularity. Tickets start at CAD 60 pp but can cost over CAD 80 if purchased on the day.

Gondola cars carry up to four passengers, but you don’t need to share with strangers. The 8-minute ride to the top offers lovely views of the Bow Valley and Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, one of the best hotels in Banff.

At the peak, a large interpretation center has a two-level viewing area. A 1 km wooden boardwalk meanders across the ridge and ends at Sanson Peak, once the area’s weather station. Due to the number of stairs, the boardwalk is not wheelchair accessible.

Along the way, you can savor views everywhere you look. You’ll see Rundle Mountain, Cascade Mountain, and Sundance Peak. Below, Tunnel Mountain looks relatively small next to the town of Banff. You could spot big horn sheep who frequent the area if you’re lucky.

Plan to visit on a clear day with few clouds in the sky for the best views. If you’re planning to stay until dusk, make a reservation at the Sky Bistro Restaurant and an opportunity to enjoy an idyllic sunset dinner.

View from the Top Over Cities

Some of the best views over cities can be gained from the top of tall buildings in that city. Some great views over cities are:

Cork, Ireland

Favourite view from the top of Amber @ Amber Everywhere

St Anne’s Church, Cork

Cork is Ireland’s second city, known for its rebellious spirit and great food. For one of the most iconic views of Cork, visit St Anne’s Church in the Shandon neighborhood. Built in 1722, this church offers a bird’s-eye view of the city.

The climb up to the top of St Anne’s Church is definitely part of the experience. You’ll be outfitted with a pair of headphones to protect your ears from the sound of the bells. Then, you can practice playing simple songs on the church bells as you make your way up the tower.

The last few minutes of the climb requires some agility and comfort with steep stairs. You’ll need to navigate a few narrow passageways as you climb past the bells. It’s adventurous, but the views from the top are absolutely worth it.

You can visit St Anne’s Church on your own, or it’s included in many Cork walking tours. However, you’ll need to pay a small fee to enter the church and climb the stairs for the incredible view out over Cork.

READ MORE: Spend time in Cork on an Irish Working Holiday

Bangkok, Thailand from a Roof Bar

Favourite view from the top of Hannah & Adam @ Getting Stamped

Sunset view over Bangkok

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and is known for having a very unique rooftop bar scene that offers incredible views of the city. Spending a night at one of the Bangkok Sky Bars is a must-do activity in Thailand, as you can enjoy delicious food and unique cocktail creations while enjoying the Bangkok Skyline from above.

Many of the sky bars scattered across the city are very sophisticated and chic, so be sure to check the dress code ahead of time before selecting which rooftop bar to visit. Be prepared that most sky bars are very pricey, so if you’re looking for a frugal activity, you may want to find another option.

Head to the Red Sky, which is located on the 55th floor of the Centra Grand Hotel and gives 360-degree panoramas of the city. Headed even higher into the sky is the King Power Mahanakhon Building, which is located on the 78th floor and offers visitors the chance to enjoy a skywalk at the country’s tallest building.

READ MORE: How to Spend 3 Days in Bangkok

Top of the Rock, New York City

Favourite view of Pauline @ Beeloved City

Views from the 69th floor of the Rockefeller Centre in NYC

Located in the heart of Manhattan, the Top of the Rock is one of the most famous observation decks in the world. It’s located at the top of the Rockefeller Center, in midtown Manhattan and boasts some of the best views of New York City.

It is one of the main attractions in NYC and can be visited every day of the week. To do so, you need to book a ticket (either direct or through one of the NYC cards).

Make sure to book a timed entrance since this will save you some time when you get there. You’ll be able to go straight to the lift instead of queuing up at the front desk. The lift will then take you up to the museum part where you will discover the history of the Rockefeller Centre and access a second lift which goes all the way to the 67th floor.

Once you exit the lift, you will start discovering the stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. You can also go up to the 69th and 70th floor. They are the ones with the outdoor decks so you can get beautiful photos here.

The best thing about the Top of the Rock (unlike the Empire State Building) is that you get stunning views of Central Park as well as the Empire State Building and Lower Manhattan.

It’s absolutely stunning and an experience you will never forget! For even more beautiful views, consider going up before sunset so you can see NYC during the day, sunset and at night.

READ MORE: How to Spend 2 Days in New York

The Shard, London

Favourite view from the top of Sarah @ Slow Travel

A most iconic view from The Shard is of Tower Bridge and the Thames

The Shard in south London is the tallest building in the UK, standing at a lofty 310m tall. Its iconic pointed top is recognisable wherever you are in the city as it towers over the rest of the capital. Open for 10 years, visitors can ascend in the fastest lift in the country at an ear-popping 16mph to reach several levels of viewing platforms which provide 360° views over the city.

The incredible views are the main reason everyone visits –  on a clear day you can see about 40 miles, past the sprawling city to the green hills and countryside beyond. Closer to home you can see all the major London landmarks – Tower Bridge, St.Paul’s Cathedral, the Houses of Parliament and of course, the River Thames winding its way through them all.

It is not all about the views though. There are two bars, lots of comfortable seating, a piano and all manner of decorations and flowers, making it a most Instagrammable spot. The clink of glasses, sound of laughter and heady heights make the whole experience a thoroughly enjoyable one.

A visit to the Shard costs about £28, but you can usually find a voucher or special offer to be able to visit for less than that. They also do packages that include champagne and photos.

READ MORE: 5 Day London Itinerary for First Timers

Torre Latinoamericana, Mexico City

Favourite view from the top of Soumya @ Stories by Soumya

View from the top of Torre Latinoamericana

The view from the top of Torre Latinoamericana, one of Mexico City’s most famous landmarks and tallest towers, is the best in the country. Located in the historic downtown of CDMX, Torre Latinoamericana is a modern skyscraper that’s over 500 feet tall. Once Mexico’s tallest building, the skyscraper has survived several earthquakes including a devastating one in 1985.

The Mirador Observation Deck on the 44^th floor of Torre Latinoamericana provides stunning views of the historic center and beyond. It is breathtaking to see the wide expanse of Mexico City from 450 feet above the ground level. Some iconic monuments such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and Palacio de Bella Artes present an impressive sight.

Come here in the evening to see the entire city light up and the jewels of Mexico City’s Historic Downtown glow in the dark. You can use the elevator in the lobby to get to the observation deck on the 44^th floor. There is also a lounge bar on the 41^st floor where you can enjoy a drink with the view. The entrance fee for Torre Latinoamericana is 180 Mexican pesos. They are open 9:00 am – 10:00 pm, Monday through Sunday. Buy your skip-the-line tickets in advance.

Galata Tower, Istanbul, Turkey

Favourite view from the top of Tamar @ World by Weekend

Sunset view from the Galata Tower in Istanbul 

The Galata Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in Turkey and one of the best viewpoints in the city of Istanbul. From the top, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of this sprawling mega-city.

Located in the heart of the city’s Beyoğlu district, this historic tower, built in 1348, is the oldest freestanding tower in the world. The outdoor viewing platform offers 360-degree views of Istanbul city, including the Bosphorus, the New Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. The Istanbul skyline is a mesmerizing blend of old and new. There are iconic minarets and domes of Sultanahmet’s historic district to the south. A bustling Golden Horn waterway, and the modern skyscrapers of Asian Istanbul across the Bosphorus.

To get to the top of the Galata Tower, take the elevator to the seventh floor. From there, you will walk up two flights of stairs to the top level and outdoor observation deck. There is a small fee to enter the museum, or you can purchase the Istanbul Museum Pass which also allows you to skip the line.

The best time to visit the Galata Tower is in the early evening to watch the sunset. This is a popular time to visit, so be sure to arrive early to stake out the perfect spot.

Shibuya Crossing from Shibuya Sky, Tokyo, Japan

Favourite view from the top of Sophie @ Delightful Travel Notes

View of Shibuya Crossing from Shibuya Sky

Shibuya Sky is an observation deck located right next to Shibuya Station, making it easily accessible from anywhere in Tokyo. Since its opening in 2019, it has quickly become one of the most popular observation decks in the city.

In addition to an enclosed viewing area on the 46th floor, Shibuya Sky has an open-air deck for an immersive experience. Visitors can enjoy a 360 degree view of Tokyo’s skyline. This includes iconic landmarks such as Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, and on clear days, even Mount Fuji in the distance. The night view is particularly mesmerizing when the whole city is lit up with neon lights.

A spectacular sight not to be missed from Shibuya Sky is the famous Shibuya Crossing. This is often referred to as the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing. When the traffic lights turn red, pedestrians cross from all directions simultaneously in harmonious chaos. Surrounding the crossing, towering electronic billboards illuminate the scene, flashing colorful advertisements, news, and animations. 

One of the most important travel tips for Japan is to book tickets for popular attractions ahead of time. Shibuya Sky is no exception. There is usually a discount when purchasing Shibuya Sky tickets in advance online. Besides, it is a must to reserve ahead if you want to go there at sunset. Sunset time slots are in high demand and always sell out.

Kotor, Montenegro

Favourite view from the top over a city of Kami @ My Wanderlust

View from the top in Kotor

One of the best views you can find in Europe is the panorama from the St. John’s Fortress in Kotor, Montenegro. You will see the spectacular Kotor Bay in its whole glory, with rocky mountains going all the way to the water and red rooftops of Kotor Old Town. The fortress was built between the 9th and 15th centuries to protect the town from the invaders, but what you can see today is mostly ruins. Still, the breathtaking views are worth climbing up 1350 stairs to the top (you don’t need to go all the way up to admire the vista, though). Some of the stairs are a bit shabby. Good shoes are definitely recommended here. Remember also to take plenty of water with you as there is no shadow there. On the way to the top, you will pass the Church of Our Lady of Remedy from the 16th century. Since this is one of the most popular things to do in Kotor, it’s best to climb up to the fortress either in the morning or in the late afternoon when most of the tourists are gone. The entrance fee to the Kotor walls is around €10. The hike up and back should take around 2 hours.

Burj Khalifa, Dubai

Favourite view from the top of Adri @ Traveltipzone

View from the Burj Khalifa

For an incredible view over Dubai, you should visit the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, located in Dubai. The Burj Khalifa is a skyscraper with 163 floors in downtown Dubai, offering a 360-degree panoramic view to visitors. From the top, you can see the whole area, including the best places in Dubai, the sea, the Sheikh Zayed Road with its towering skyscrapers, and the popular Dubai Fountain.

The journey to the top of the Burj Khalifa is an adventure in itself. Visitors are transported to the top floors of the building by an ultra-modern, high-speed elevator. The lift also features an exciting video showing the building and its construction during the journey, adding to the excitement.

The views from the Burj Khalifa are simply breathtaking. Through the glass-walled panoramic windows, you can see almost all of Dubai. From the modern cityscape to the seemingly endless sand dunes.

Ticket prices vary depending on the level you wish to visit and the time of your visit. It’s a good idea to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid crowds.

The most budget-friendly tickets provide access to floors 124 and 125. Alternatively, you can choose tickets for personalised service on the 148th floor or VIP tickets for floors 152-154. The main difference lies in the services offered, as the views are equally captivating from each floor.

Visiting the Burj Khalifa is an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression. Don’t miss the opportunity to admire the stunning city of Dubai from the top of the world!

Rome, Italy

Favourite view from the top of Ella @ Wanderstruck Ella

View over Rome from Colle Gianicolo (aka Janiculum Hill)

Watching the sun set over the Eternal City is a must-have experience when visiting Rome. While there are many rooftops to choose from, one of the best views is from Colle Gianicolo, or Janiculum Hill. One of Rome’s famous Seven Hills, Gianicolo rises above Trastevere and provides sweeping views eastward across the city and its monuments. There are multiple viewpoints to choose from on the hill, each with slightly different scenes.

The easiest to reach, Belvedere Gianicolo is popular with locals and tourists alike. In warmer months it’s possible to grab a drink from the cart or pop-up bar. This spot is closest to Trastevere. A stroll north brings additional viewpoints. Stop off at the Muro della Constituzione di Roma (wall of the Roman constitution) on the way to Terrazza del Gianicolo, which is down a set of somewhat precarious steps.

Catch a taxi or the 117 or 870 bus to reach Gianicolo Hill. An uphill walk from Trastevere past the Fontana d’Acqua Paola or along Via del Gianicolo (not far from St. Peter’s) are options for more active visitors.

Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

Favourite view from the top of Sharon @ Exploring Our World

Paris from Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower, the iconic symbol of Paris, offers spectacular views from the inside. During your visit to Paris, you will catch a glimpse of this magnificent tower from many places around the city. You will spot it from the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Seine. And when you climb the stairs or take the elevators to the second or third levels of the tower, you can look down and see all of these Parisian landmarks and more.

The second level affords astounding views. If you have issues with heights or want to climb the stairs, you can forgo the third level and still enjoy fabulous 360-degree views of Paris below. You can look for landmarks such as the Arc de Triomphe and the U-shaped Louvre. The gold, glittery dome is the Invalides, where Napoleon is buried.

Due to the long lines that form for tickets, you will likely want to buy your tickets online before the day you visit. If you decide to go spur-of-the-moment, you will most easily get tickets to climb the stairs rather than take elevators.

From the ground, you can climb about 700 stairs to the second level platform. You can stop all along the route to catch your breath. Going slowly up into the tower allows you to take in the views all around from different heights. Be prepared for a memorable time inside the Eiffel Tower as you marvel at the magnificent sights in all directions.

Rio, Brazil

Favourite view from the top of Fernanda @ Mauka Travels

View from the top Christ the Redeemer over Rio

The view over Rio de Janeiro seen from Christ the Redeemer is one of the most special ones in Brazil. Considered one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, visiting Christ the Redeemer should be on every traveler’s bucket list when going to Rio. The Christ statue sits on the top of a mountain called Corcovado, providing 360 views over the city of Rio. Corcovado is part of the Tijuca National Park, so you are surrounded by green tropical forests at all times.

From the top of Christ the Redeemer, you can see every major point in the city. The Sugar Loaf, Maracana Stadium, Copacabana, and every other main beach in Rio, Pedra da Gavea, and much more! And of course, you have the view of the 30-meter tall statue itself, which is very impressive.

There are four ways of going up to Christ the Redeemer. Booking a tour to Christ the Redeemer, by cog train, van, and foot (a hiking trail). It is not possible to get to the top with your own car. To have the full experience, the best transport option is to get the tickets to go by cog train, which will drive you up the mountain through the forest.

Singapore

Favourite view from the top of Zhou @ A Love Letter to Asia

View over Singapore from Marina Bay Hotel infinity pool

One of the best views from the top, both literally and figuratively, is the view from the Marina Bay Sands infinity pool in Singapore. Literally, because it is located at the top of the hotel and figuratively because it costs around S$1300 per night for a (renovated) room at the hotel! The service is terrific though. You’ll be well-situated to enjoy the Marina Bay Sands attractions, such as Gardens by the Bay, which are some of the best things to do in Singapore.

From the pool, you’ll get a sweeping view of the Singapore skyline. As well as views of fireworks during special events, such as Singapore National Day or New Year’s Eve. Unfortunately, the pool is only open to hotel guests. You will need a hotel key card to enter the pool area. However, here is a cheap cheat to enjoy the iconic Singapore skyline without forking out S$1300 for a room. There are several restaurants also located on the same floor as the infinity pool so if you dine there, you’ll enjoy (almost) the same view! 

Sydney, Australia

Favourite view from the top of Lanie @ Make More Adventures 

Sydney Harbour – one of the most iconic views in the world

Sydney, Australia is a beautiful city and the view can be enjoyed from land and on water from many different angles. While you can go up to the Sky Tower for a view from the 2nd tallest observation deck in the Southern Hemisphere, the best view from the top is found by climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

One of just 5 bridge climbs in the world, Sydney Harbour Bridge was the very first bridge climb, beginning in 1988. After making a booking, meet at their location at The Rocks, either by walking, car, or public transportation. Check-in and prepare for your climb by putting on a climb suit and harness over your clothes, securing loose items such as sunglasses and hats, and learning about the climb.

Climbs last 2.5-3.5 hours depending on the type you choose. You can opt to climb any time of day from dawn to dark. A twilight climb allows you to view Sydney both during the day, during sunset, and in the dark.

Kids as young as 8 are able to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, as long as they are at least 1.2 meters tall and with an adult on the climb. Seeing a 360-degree view of Sydney from the top of the bridge is just one of the fun things to do during a trip to Sydney with kids.

Everyone must have a general level of fitness and be able to climb a lot of stairs and steep ladders. Unfortunately, you are not allowed to bring a camera to capture the best view in Sydney, but you are able to purchase photos both before and after the climb.

Dubrovnik City Walls, Croatia

Favourite view from the top of Charlotte @ The Geo Room

Dubrovnik rooftops from Dubrovnik city walls

The views that you get from walking on top of the Dubrovnik City Walls are unmatched and just incredible! Dubrovnik’s Old Town is well known for its beautiful medieval architecture with white-washed walls and orange rooftops. Having been a scenic backdrop for many episodes of ‘Game of Thrones’ the city has become a very popular tourist destination in recent years. Taking the opportunity to climb the stairs and walk the walls of the Old Town is well worth the money. It’s an experience that should not be missed, even if you’ve only got one day in Dubrovnik.

Completing the walk in the morning or late afternoon is best as it can be very hot during the day. The walls give you a wonderful view across the city and as they encircle it, you get to see Dubrovnik’s Old Town from every angle. You also get to see across the Adriatic Sea to the many islands along Dubrovnik’s coastline. The cost of walking the walls is €35 but the Dubrovnik Pass is more worth your money as it will allow you to gain entry at many other attractions along with the city walls.

Caldera View In Santorini

Favourite view from the top of Mal @ Raw Mal Roams

View over Santorini

If you’re on a hunt for incredible vistas in Greece, Santorini Island is a must-visit! Located around a 5-hour ferry ride from Athens, Santorini is one of the most romantic islands you can visit, and it’s all thanks to its villages perched high on a dramatic caldera lined with charming white-washed houses and dotted with blue-dome churches. 

The Santorini Caldera is essentially a massive sunken volcano crater born from a colossal ancient volcanic eruption. Millions of years of transformation have shaped its iconic cliffs while strategically positioned villages once provided refuge from medieval pirates. 

The village of Oia boasts the most spectacular views that can be enjoyed from almost all its corners. But for the most iconic views, head to Oia Castle, which is particularly a good spot to visit during the sunset, and it’s free to enter.  

Stay in one of the Santorini hotels with caldera view to make the most of the stunning scenery. Virginia’s Cave Villas, located in Oia, is a good pick if you’re travelling as a couple and looking for a romantic stay. 

Canberra, Australia

Favourite view from the top of Sharyn @ Discover Australia Now

View from the top of Mount Ainslie over Canberra

Canberra is the capital of Australia and often overlooked on people’s travel around Australia. Why, well being the capital of Australia it is home to the seat of parliament of Australia plus is home to many federal and national buildings. Could be boring to some, but very interesting to others. Amongst the many buildings to visit are the National War Memorial, National Museum and Parliament House sitting hight on Capital Hill.

To get the best view over Canberra and to get your bearings of the city, you should take a trip to the top of Mount Ainslie. Drive or walk to the top for fabulous 360 degree views over Canberra. Although you can get great views through the day, consider ending your day with a picnic while enjoying the sun set over Canberra.

READ MORE: Extend your stay in Australia on a Working Holiday Visa

Are You Ready for Ooh Aah Views From the Top over Cities and Natural Wonders?

I hope these views over natural wonders and cities have inspired you. Have you got a great view from the top to add to this list. I’d love to hear.

So you have one month holiday and you’ve decided to spend this one month in Australia. You have it in your mind what you what to see and do in Australia. You want to see all Australia’s iconic places – Sydney Harbour, the Red Centre, The Great Ocean Road and The Great Barrier Reef. Well, come say G’day to all these iconic places in Australia, plus loads more on my suggested 1 month Australia itinerary. It’s the perfect itinerary for first timers to Australia. You will get to tick off all the iconic Aussie spots on your Australia bucket list.

Is One Month Long Enough in Australia?

Australia is really too big to explore and discover everything it is has to offer in 1 month. Distances are just too great. However, you can see all its iconic places during a 4 week holiday in Australia. From Sydney Harbour to the Great Ocean Road to the Red Centre to the Great Barrier Reef. You can experience all these iconic places in my 1 month iconic Australia places to visit itinerary, but you will need to fly and not drive, as driving distances are just too long. Realistically, if you want to drive around Australia I would suggest an Australian itinerary of 2-3 months as a minimum. Many Australians actually take 12 months to travel around Australia doing what is called ‘the Big Lap‘. But if one month is all you have, you can see all the iconic spots as per this Australia itinerary.

Best Time to Visit Australia

As Australia is so large, the weather is different from one end of the country to the other. 

Summer (December, January, February) in Australia is hot. The southern states are hot and dry while the northern states have more tropical weather. Summer in the northern Australian states can see very humid hot days with possible storms and cyclones. If you struggle in very hot and humid weather, I’d avoid traveling the northern half of Australia in summer and stick to the southern states.

Winter (June, July, August) in Australia can be cold. The southern states can be very cold with snow on the high mountains. Yes, snow. The ski season runs from June to October and it is popular with visitors to work and ski Australia. The northern states are best to visit during winter as days are warm, but nights, like in the Red Centre can be cool.

Spring (September, October, November) and Autumn (March, April, May) are good times to travel Australia as the weather is more pleasant. Day time temperatures are warming up in Spring and cooling down in Autumn. There are also less tourists during this time however, you will find plenty of Australians travelling their own country as they do their ‘Big Lap of Australia’.

But you cannot predict what weather you will encounter in Australia on a daily basis, so really anytime is a good time to visit Australia. 

How to Get to Australia

Australia is surrounded by ocean so the two main ways to get to Australia’s shores is to sail or to fly. There are a number of cruise lines that visit Australian ports. You could sail from your home country – if you have the time – for your 1 month Australia iconic places itinerary. There are repositioning cruises that you could take, such as Southampton to Sydney. See what cruise lines visit Australia at Cruisecritic.

Most people will fly to Australia. And the flight can be long but there are ways to survive a long flight. Some flights take 24 hours from the United Kingdom and 18 hours from Los Angeles in America. Getting over jet lag due to the time difference can be a task in itself. To get the best airfare to Australia check out Skyscanner.

Where to Start Your 1 Month Holiday in Australia

Most international flights arriving from overseas arrive in Sydney, Australia at Sydney International Airport. Other capital cities such as Melbourne also have international airports. For this 1 month Australia iconic spots itinerary, the itinerary starts in Sydney. And why not – afterall, Sydney is home to some of the most iconic spots – the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. If lucky enough, you may get a birds-eye view over Sydney Harbour while coming in to land. 

How to Travel around Australia During Your 1 Month Australian Holiday

Australia is a large country and the best way to see all it’s iconic spots is by driving to them. However, as you only have one month in Australia the two best options to see everything suggested on this itinerary is to combine driving and flying options. It is best to fly between the major cities as you will be reducing the driving time. For instance to drive from Sydney to Melbourne you are looking at a 10-12 hour drive. If you fly, you are looking at a 1 hour and 20 minute flight. Similarly, the flight from Darwin to Alice Springs is 2 hours but driving can take 18 hours. Shortening the travel time will mean you can spend more time visiting the Australian iconic sites you have come to Australia to see. But you can see Australia from the air! Yes, most airline routes in Australia will travel across the country so when you look out of the window you will see what is below.

Australian Accommodation – Where Will You Stay in Australia

Australia offers some great accommodation for your holiday. It ranges from camping grounds, hostels to hotels from budget to 5 star. In this Australian itinerary I provide accommodation options to stay in at each nightly location mostly in hostels and hotels as camping grounds are usually too far out of town for the purposes of this itinerary. I find all my Australia Holiday Accommodation options through Booking.com.

How Much Will One Month in Australia Cost

To work out how much this one month Australia holiday will cost, create a spreadsheet as follows. 

Airfare to Australia $_____
Accommodation (per night) $_____ x 30 = $_______
Transport around Australia – flights $_______
Day tours $_______
Meals x 3 per day $_______
Entrance Fees $_____
Extras (souvenirs, etc) $______

What to Pack for 1 Month in Australia

Australian’s dress casual so pack mostly casual clothes for warm weather. Shorts and t-shirts but also have long pants and a jumper or coat for when it gets colder, particularly at night. Definitely pack a good pair of walking shoes, reef safe sunscreen and a hat.

1 Month Australia Iconic Places Itinerary at a Glance

My map shows you where the most Australian iconic spots to visit are. They are wide spread and distances between them great, this is why you need to fly to these places. Here’s how to spend 4 weeks in Australia on your first visit to Australia. You won’t see everything, but you will see most of the best Australian iconic sites during a 4 week holiday in Australia. And I would try to book a window seat for your flights as the planes travel over the countryside where you will see things below. Sometimes the pilot will tell you you are flying over something of interest.

Days

1-4 – Sydney + Blue Mountains
5-6 – Canberra
7-8 – Melbourne
9-10 – drive Great Ocean Road
11-12 – Adelaide + Barossa Valley
13-15 – Perth + Rottnest Island
16-19 – Darwin + Kakadu
20-25 – Alice Springs – Kings Canyon, Uluru + Kata Tjuta
26 – 29 – Cairns + Great Barrier Reef + Atherton Tablelands by Kuranda Railway
30 – to Sydney for flight home

I’ve chosen this route to travel as at the time of writing, direct flights are available between the major cities and towns. Hopefully, the airlines won’t change this!

Don’t have 4 weeks to spend in Australia, I suggest:

1 week in Australia – spend your time in Sydney and Cairns

2 weeks in Australia – spend your time in Sydney, Uluru and Cairns

3 weeks in Australia – spend your time in Sydney, Melbourne, Uluru and Cairns

But if you have 4 weeks to spend in Australia, follow my one month Australia iconic places itinerary.

One Month Australia Iconic Places Itinerary

Days 1-4 – Sydney + Day Trip to the Blue Mountains

Start your Australia iconic places holiday in Sydney at Sydney Harbour

Sydney is the capital of the state of New South Wales, Australia and this is where you start your 1 month Australian iconic spots holiday. Sydney is home to some 5.3 million people and is known for the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House sitting proudly on the Sydney Harbour foreshore. It is also known as having fabulous beaches with the iconic Bondi Beach being one of them. And you are now about to discover everything Sydney has to offer a first time visitor to Australia.

Where to Stay in Sydney

You will be spending 4 nights in Sydney. Most first-timers to Sydney will want to stay as close to Sydney Harbour as possible. This means you will be in easy walking distance to the best things to see and do in Sydney in around the Harbour. Accommodation options for your stay in Sydney could be:

Hostel: If you are looking for a bed in a hostel you can’t go past the YHA Sydney Harbour. As well as offering all the usual things a hostel offers, this hostel has a fabulous rooftop area providing excellent views over Sydney Harbour. Get rates and availability to YHA Sydney Harbour here.
Budget Hotel: For a budget hotel try The Grand Hotel. It’s located in Sydney CBD. Get rates and availability to The Grand Hotel here.
Mid-range Hotel: For a mid-range hotel relatively close to Sydney Harbour consider the Mercure Sydney. About a 10 minute walk to the Harbour, this hotel has much to offer first-time travellers to Sydney. Get rates and availability to the Mercure Hotel here.
Splurge Hotel: If you ever wanted to splurge on a hotel, then splurging in Sydney to have fabulous views over Sydney Harbour is where you will want to splurge. Check out the Rydges Hotel in The Rocks area and you will be treated to endless views of Sydney Harbour. Get rates and availability for Rydges Sydney Harbour here.
For more accommodation options in Sydney, visit Booking.com.

What to See and Do in Sydney

Day 1 – Sydney

After arriving in Sydney, checking into your accommodation and after having a wake-up shower head straight to Sydney Harbour to walk around the foreshore. Start in the area known as ‘The Rocks‘. This is the area that was first developed by the convicts that were brought to Australia. Many of the buildings are built from sandstone. Leaving this area walk to Sydney Harbour. Visit the Overseas Terminal where the international cruise lines dock. You could climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge at this time. Not feeling like it? Then you can walk up one of the pylons for great views over the harbour. Or perhaps walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. There is a walkway and then catch a train back.

After exploring the Sydney Harbour Bridge walk around the harbour where all the ferries arrive and leave from. You could grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants on the way to the Sydney Opera House. Walk around the Sydney Opera House or perhaps go on a tour to see the theatres inside. Keep walking through the Royal Botanic Gardens to end up at Mrs MacQuarie’s Chair. Mrs MacQuarie was the wife of Major-General Lachlan Macquarie who governed New South Wales between 1810 and 1821. The large stone chair was built so Mrs Macquarie could sit and look at the beautiful sunsets over the new Sydney. And you could finish your first day in Sydney at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair doing exactly the same. Then head back to harbour as there are plenty of restaurants for dinner lining the harbour.

BOOK Your Tour of the Sydney Opera House online here

Day 2 – Sydney

I always like to do a hop-on hop-off bus tour when I have limited time in a new city. So this morning go on the Sydney hop-on hop-off tour bus. It will take you to all the main sites in Sydney to see. Then you can decide which ones you would like to re-visit. Perhaps go up Sydney Tower for great views over the city.

BOOK Your Ticket for Sydney’s Hop-on Hop-off Bus online here

Day 3 – Sydney

Today jump on a ferry to Manly. On hopping off the ferry walk along Manly’s Corso – the main walking mall to Manly Beach. Maybe spend the day at the beach or hop on a bus and travel along the Northern Beaches area to the end of the peninsula. Home and Away fans (an Australian TV show) could walk to the surf club where scenes of Home and Away is filmed. Or perhaps hike up the Barrenjoey Headland to the Lighthouse. Return to Manly by bus before returning to Sydney by ferry. Or perhaps go east and spend your day at Bondi Beach. Learn to surf or enjoy the water.

Day 4 – Blue Mountains Day Trip

See the Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains on a Day Trip from Sydney

Today hire a car or catch the train to the Blue Mountains about an hour and a half west of Sydney. Here discover The Three Sisters, a rock formation overlooking the Jamieson Valley. Go on a easy hike or there is the Blue Mountains hop-on and off Explorer Bus you can take which will take you not only to the Three Sisters but to other sites in the Blue Mountains. I took the hop-on hop-off explorer bus and it was wonderful. It took me to all the best spots in the Blue Mountains and I could hop-off to spend extra time at the places that were of most interest to me. You can buy your ticket in advance online for the Blue Mountains hop-on and off Explorer Bus here, or at Katoomba Station! To save me waiting at the station, I purchased my ticket in advance online here Blue Mountains hop-on and off Explorer Bus. Have a meal in Katoomba before returning to Sydney.

Day 5-6 – Canberra, ACT

Get fabulous views over Canberra from the Mount Ainslie Lookout

Day 5 of this 1 month Australia iconic places sees you leave Sydney to drive to Canberra. Canberra is the capital city of Australia and is worth a visit. To reach Canberra either rent a car and drive the 280 or so kilometres or you can catch a train from Sydney’s Central Train Station. You could fly from Sydney to Canberra but the flight is very short and if you drive, you will get a taste of Australian roads and the New South Wales countryside. As mentioned, Canberra is the capital of Australia and home to Australia’s Government.

Where to Stay in Canberra

This itinerary budgets for 2 nights accommodation in Canberra. Canberra has loads of styles of accommodation to suit different budgets. There are a number of hostels, hotels, apartments and camp sites to stay at. All are in easy reach by local public transport to the major attractions in Canberra.

Hostel: Hostels have long provided cheap and comfortable accommodation. Canberra has a few of them including the Canberra City YHA which is conveniently located on .3km from the city centre.
Budget Hotel: Hotels and motels are plentiful in Canberra. Some great deals can be found in the following which range from budget to expensive. They include but are not limited to: Mercure Canberra, Best Western Garden City, Mantra on Northbourne, Crowne Plaza, Hyatt Hotel and Rydges Capital Hill to name a few.
Mid-range Hotel: Ibis Styles Canberra Tall Trees in Ainslie – read my review of my stay here.
For other Canberra accommodation options check out Booking.com.
Once in a life-time great experience: Fancy sleeping with a tiger or feeding a giraffe from your balcony while staying in luxurious accommodation? Then the Jamala Wildlife Lodge might be an option for you. Check out their accommodation options here.
For more accommodation options in Canberra, get rates and availabilities at Booking.com.

What to See and Do in Canberra

You should arrive in Canberra around lunch time so after grabbing a bite to eat head to Parliament House. This is Australia’s seat of government and it might be ‘dry’ for some people, it is interesting to visit where all the decisions are made. Go on a free guided tour or walk around yourself. If you have time visit the Museum of Democracy, or what some of us call ‘Old Parliament House’. This is the big white building you can see in the distance from Parliament House. It was built as an interim parliament house until the one we have today was built! The Museum of Democracy is interactive with lots of things to read and experience. I personally loved seeing the Prime Minister’s office and visiting both The Senate and House of Representatives. Finish the day off with a nice dinner.

Spend your second day in Canberra with a visit to the Australian War Memorial. Followed by a visit to a museum or two and maybe walk around Lake Burley Griffin or take a drive to see the Consulates and High Commissions. Canberra has many things to see and do on day 2 in Canberra.

Days 7-8 – Melbourne

Melbourne City

See the street art Melbourne is famous for

After a short flight (1 hr 10 mins) from Canberra to Melbourne check into your accommodation and get exploring Melbourne. Melbourne is the capital city of the Australian state of Victoria. Some 5 million people live in Melbourne and it rivals Sydney for being the biggest city in Australia. Melbourne, they say, was built from the profits of gold during the gold rush days. So you will see many grand old buildings.

Where to Stay in Melbourne

Melbourne has many accommodation options. Book for 2 nights stay in Melbourne.

Hostels: There are a number of great hostels very close to, or in Melbourne’s CBD. Check out: Melbourne City Backpackers, All Nationals Backpackers, The Village Melbourne
Budget Hotels: For a budget hotel in Melbourne get rates and check availability for Hotel Grand Chancellor Melbourne or Ibis Melbourne Central.
Luxury Hotels: Seeking a luxurious Melbourne pad, then consider the InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto, The Langham or the Grand Hyatt Melbourne.
Apartments: Prefer an apartment to make some meals and to save some money whilte travelling around Australia, then you may like to consider Melbourne SkyHigh Apartments.
For other Melbourne accommodation options check out Booking.com.

What to See and Do in Melbourne

After the morning of travel from Canberra to Melbourne and checking into your accommodation, get your walking shoes on and explore the city. Melbourne is built on a grid systems making it easy to walk around the streets and laneways. Some of the best things to see and do in Melbourne include:

• Start your visit to Melbourne at Flinders Street Train Station. This is an iconic building in Melbourne built from sandstone, as are many of the buildings in Melbourne. People use the iconic clocks above the entrance as a meeting place so if you need to meet someone, meet them under the clocks at Flinders Street Station. Then cross the road to visit Federation Square and the NGV (National Gallery of Victoria). There is always an interesting exhibit on there.
• Melbourne is known for its street art and cafe culture so start your visit to Melbourne by walking to see the main street art laneways. The two best laneways to visit with street art are Hosier Lane and AC/DC Lane. After deciding whether the street art is art or graffiti head to another lane, Hardware Lane for your choice of restaurants for lunch. It is easy to walk around Melbourne as it was built around a grid, so many roads and laneways cross each other.
• Hop on Melbourne’s free Circle Tram. This tram circles the city passing many Melbourne’s interesting buildings. There is a commentary telling you about the things you will see in Melbourne from the tram. You can hop on and off the tram at will to visit places of interest longer. Visit the State Library to see the massive reading room. Maybe a tour of Melbourne Gaol to see the armour and death mask of one of Australia’s most notorious bushrangers – Ned Kelly.
• Catch a tram down St Kilda Road and visit the War Memorial. And look back from the top of the stairs for great views over the city. Jump back on the tram and visit St Kilda Beach. Here you can spend you day at the beach, wander along Acland Street and enjoy a cake or too from one of the cake shops. Or perhaps walk out onto the pier. End your day here where a little penguin colony lives and watch them come ashore.
• Visit the Queen Victoria Markets. This market is massive and is home to lots of fresh foods, clothes and other items including souvenirs. Or shop till you drop in one of the many shopping centres in Melbourne or along Bourke Street Mall. Get an iconic snap of Melbourne trams driving through the mall.
• Walk along South Bank and enjoy a meal in one of the many cafes, restaurants and bars. Possibly spend a few hours inside the Crown Casino – even if it is to check out the shops or entertainment.

Days 9-10 – Drive the Great Ocean Road

After hiring a car (get availability and rates via DiscoverCars here) it will take a good 1.5 hours to drive from Melbourne to Torquay. Usually I would take 3-4 days to really explore the Great Ocean Road but this 1 month itinerary affords 2 days and you can see a great deal during this time. For the first day along the Great Ocean Road you can stop anywhere you want but these are my suggestions:

• First stop on the Great Ocean Road is Torquay. Torquay is actually just before the Great Ocean Road but worth a visit. You could visit Australia’s Surfing Museum and get the history of surfing or perhaps enjoy a bite to eat in one of the cafes. Or dip your toes in the water.
• Jump back in the car and head to Bells Beach, where the world-famous Bells Beach Surfing Competition is held every year around Easter time. Walk down the stairs to the beach. Did the stairs at Bells Beach make you a little thirsty or in need of a sugary pick-me-up? Then follow the signs to the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery.
• Leave ‘Bells’ as the locals call it and begin the journey along the Great Ocean Road. First stop is the Great Ocean Road Entrance for the iconic photo shot of the sign and the statues of men building the road.

Entrance to the Great Ocean Road

• Travel along the Great Ocean Road passing small towns of Anglesea then Aireys Inlet, both seaside towns with eateries, shops, beaches and beautiful scenery. Then on to Lorne. Lorne is another beachside town and is a very popular surfing spot. It has a well-known arts community. You might want to visit a gallery and the sculpture park. Head up to Teddy’s Lookout which provides sweeping views over the town and along the coast. Take a drive in to the state park to visit Erskine Falls. Set amidst a rainforest with ferns and Bell Birds take the easy walk to the beautiful waterfall.

Erskine Falls

Leaving Lorne follow the coastal road through small towns of Separation Creek, Wye River and Kennett River before reaching Apollo Bay. In Apollo Bay head to Mariners Lookout for panoramic views over the ocean. Stay the night in Apollo Bay. There is plenty of accommodation Apollo Bay. You can book for one night by searching for options at Booking.com.

On the second day of driving the Great Ocean Road, leave Apollo Bay and drive into the Otway National Park to spend the morning. This national park is home to a 57-mile hiking trail, forest, waterfalls and native wildlife. You may see many koalas in the trees, learn about Aboriginal history and dinosaur fossils. You can walk around the area visiting the buildings to learn about the area, including dinosaur fossils that have been found. If feeling energetic climb to the top of the Cape Otway Lighthouse. 

From Apollo Bay take the long and windy drive to the Twelve Apostles National Park. This is a must see stop with spectacular coastline where you will see the Twelve Apostles, actually there is only 8 of them as 4 have collapsed into the ocean.,plus many more nature-made landmarks. You may want to take a helicopter ride to truly appreciate the area. My son and I did this, read taking a helicopter ride over the Twelve Apostles here. The airfield to go on a helicopter ride over the Twelve Apostles is opposite the car park and you can buy a ticket in the terminal.

Twelve Apostles on a sunny day

After admiring the Twelve Apostles, next stop is Loch Ard Gorge where you can walk along the platforms down to the beach to discover about the shipwrecks that happened along the coastline.  Yes, it’s not called the Shipwreck Coast for nothing! Leaving the Gorge drive through Port Campbell and on to London Bridge. London Bridge is a natural arch which unfortunately due to erosion has now been separated from the mainland. Spectacular all the same.

Arial view of 12 Apostles from helicopter

Loch Ard on the Shipwreck Coast

After seeing some spectacular scenery along the Great Ocean Road continue through Warrnambool and on to Adelaide. You will arrive early evening, dinner time in Adelaide.

Days 11-12 Adelaide + Barossa Valley

Adelaide is the capital of the Australian state of South Australia. Known as the ‘City of Churches’ for all the churches you will see. It is also the gateway to the Barossa Valley, a world-famous wine region. It is quite small compared to some of Australia’s other cities and you may be wondering why I have included it in this itinerary of icons of Australia. Well, it’s really the Barossa Valley wine region, that is the icon here! And if you are travelling with kids and wonder if the Barossa Valley is kid-friendly, well, it can be, if you take your kids to see how the wine is made.

Where to Stay in Adelaide

Book for 3 nights in Adelaide. Options for your stay:

Hostel: If seeking a bed in an Adelaide hostel, you can’t go past YHA Adelaide Central. Within easy walking distance to the sites of Adelaide including the iconic Adelaide Oval. Get rates and availability for YHA Adelaide Central here.
Budget Hotel: Not far from Chinatown, Adelaide Central Market and Rundle Street Mall, check out Hotel Metropolitan. 
Middle Range Hotel: Get rates and availability for the Ibis Adelaide within Adelaide city and close to everything.

What to See and Do in Adelaide & Surrounds

Adelaide is the capital city of the state of South Australia. It is an easy city to walk around as it is a well planned and laid-out city. In fact, most of the best things to see and do are within a square-mile grid. To start your time in. Adelaide I suggest you download one of the free walking maps available on the City of Adelaide website www.cityofadelaide.com.au. I downloaded my walking map and found it so useful – and never got lost once! So, things to see and do in Adelaide:

• Start your Adelaide visit at Rundle Mall. This is Adelaide’s pedestrian-only main shopping street and is the longest and one of the busiest malls in Australia. The street was established in 1837 with many of the buildings dateing back to the 19th century. Apart from visiting some of the 700 or so retailers, Rundle Mall is home to a fountain and iconic sculptures including the Spheres, a group of life-size pigs (August, Horatio, Oliver and Truffles) and a giant cockroach. From Rundle Mall there are short walks to reach the Adelaide Central Market, the SA Museum, Art Gallery, State Library and Parliament House.
• Sport lovers will want to visit Adelaide Oval, scene of many AFL and cricket matches. Possibly go on a tour of Adelaide Oval and be given access to areas only the players are privy to. Receive the lowdown on the history of the venue and gain insight into the 100-year old heritage-listed scoreboard. You can book your tour of the Adelaide Oval here. Or perhaps do a roof climb of the Oval for great views over Adelaide up to the Adelaide Hills and out to the ocean. You can book your tour to climb the Oval here. 
• Visit The National Wine Centre. I found this to be a fascinating educational experience. After all, if you asked me what some of my favourite things in life are, wine would definitely be on the list. Gain knowledge about winemaking and wine appreciation here.
• After spending a day discovering Adelaide, spend your second day in Adelaide discovering the Barossa Valley. This area is outside of Adelaide and is often referred to as ‘Australia’s best wine region’. I suggest go on a day tour that will take you to a number of wineries and include lunch. You can book a tour to the Barossa Valley here.

Barossa Valley vines

Days 13 – 15 – Perth + Rottnest Island

Day 13 of this 1 month Australia itinerary sees you leave Adelaide and take a 4 hour flight to Perth. On landing in Perth, make your way to your accommodation. Then get your walking shoes on and start discovering Perth. Perth is the capital of Western Australia and is your gateway to many parts of Western Australia. On this itinerary of Australia we are staying in Perth, but venturing to see the iconic little Quokkas of Rottnest Island.

Where to Stay in Perth

Perth has a variety of accommodation available to suit all budgets for your 2 days in Perth visit. Great news is there is plenty of very central accommodation in easy walking distance of many of things you can see and do in Perth. If you are in a van, towing a caravan or like to stay in cabins there is the Perth Central Caravan Park. This park is only minutes away from central Perth and offers tent and powered sites and cabins. Check out pricing and availability for Perth Central Caravan Park here. If a hostel bed is what you seek check out Ocean Beach Backpackers, Cottlesloe and JJs Backpackers which includes breakfast. For a budget hotel room check out pricing and availability at Doubletree by Hilton Perth in Northbridge. Located in a great area for good nightlife. For a room in a mid-range hotel try the Duxton Hotel Perth, only .6km from the centre of Perth. If you like to self-cater then check out All Suites Perth. For all other options check out Booking.com.

What to See and Do in Perth

• Hop aboard Perth Tram Explorer. This hop-off hop-on bus takes you to all the best sites to see in Perth.
• Visit Kings Park for great sunset views over Perth.
• Spend an evening in Northbridge, a vibrant part of Perth with many restaurants, bars and pubs. End your day ‘in the west’ with a nice meal and a drink.
• Meet the Quokkas of Rottnest Island on a day trip from Perth.

Perth city from Kings Park

Get a selfie with a curious Quokka

You will want a full day to explore Rottnest Island. To get to Rottnest Island grab a short ferry from Perth or Fremantle. While on Rottnest Island you can hire a bike for the 22 km loop. While riding you can beach hop and maybe even catch a few dolphins swimming nearby. Of course, a trip to Rottnest Island wouldn’t be complete without getting a selfie with a quokka! If you aren’t familiar, a quokka is a cute and small furry animal that you won’t typically find anywhere else in the world. They’re friendly, maybe too friendly, and can be found throughout the island so your chances of running into one and getting the perfect picture is quite high.

You can organise your day at Rottnest Island yourself as there are a few public ferries that make daily trips to the island. Or, you can undertake a tour that picks you up at your hotel, sails you to Rottnest Island and shows you around the island.

BOOK your tour to Rottnest Island online.

Days 16-19 – Darwin + Kakadu

After your flight from Perth to Darwin taking 3 hours 35 minutes direct, head to your accommodation in Darwin. Put your walking shoes on and start discovering Darwin. Try to stay outdoors and find a place to watch the sunset over Darwin – possibly at Mindil Beach. Darwin has some of the best sunsets in Australia. Darwin is the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory and you will be staying here for 3 nights, two now and one after you get back from Kakadu National Park. It is relatively small city compared to Sydney so accommodation is very central.

Where to Stay in Darwin

Book 3 nights accommodation in Darwin – the first two and another night for when you get back from Kakadu.

Hostel: For a bed in a hostel check out MOM Darwin which is very central on Mitchell Street near the bus terminal. It has a pool and cooling which is needed when visiting Darwin. Get pricing and availability of MOM Darwin here.
Hotel: For a budget hotel in Darwin check out the Darwin City Hotel.
Mid-Range Hotel: Looking for a hotel a bit more up-market and near the waterfront, check out the Novotel Darwin CBD.

What to See and Do in Darwin

Spend a full day in Darwin. Some of the best things to see and do in Darwin include:

• There is a hop-on hop-off bus taking you to all the sites.
• Visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. In particular visit the Cyclone Tracy exhibit. Cyclone Tracy was a severe Tropical Cyclone that devastated the city of Darwin from 24 to 26 December 1974. It flattened 80 per cent of the city of Darwin and killed 71 people.
• Go in the ‘Cage of Death’ at Crocosaurus Cove.
• Take a stroll through the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens.
• One of the mud-do things in Darwin is to shop at Mindil Beach’s Sunset Market. After shopping and buying dinner sit on the beach and enjoy a fabulous sunset – hopefully the weather will provide you with this!

enjoy a sunset over Darwin from Mindil Beach

2 Days in Kakadu National Park

After a couple of days in Darwin, rent a car and drive yourself or hop on a bus tour for 2 full days exploring the UNESCO Heritage listed World famous Kakadu National Park. You will be staying one night in kakadu. If you are driving yourself you will need accommodation but if going on a tour, it will be included in the price. I chose to go on a 2-day bus tour of Kakadu. And I’m glad I did because I was taken to all the best places during the 2 days in Kakadu.

• Feed the jumping crocodiles on a sail down Alligator River
• See the bird life of the wetlands
• Have a local Aboriginal guide explain the rock art drawings on the rocks
• Enjoy a sunset over Ubirr – hopefully the weather will allow this.

BOOK Your 2-Day Kakadu National Park tour online here

See croc’s jumping for food on Alligator River, Kakadu National Park

Learn about Aboriginal Rock Art from local Aboriginals

Enjoy the sunset over Ubirr and the wetlands in Kakadu NP

Days 20 – 25 – Alice Springs, Kings Canyon, Uluru + Kata Tjuta

After a short 2 hour 5 minute flight from Darwin to Alice Springs, check into your Alice Springs accommodation and get walking around Alice Springs. Alice Springs is in the ‘Red Centre’ or ‘Central Australia’. It is 1,500km from Darwin and 1,500km from Adelaide – so in the middle of these two cities.

Where to Stay in Alice Springs

Hostels: Alice Springs YHA, located only 300m from the centre of town. It is built within the grounds of an historic outdoor movie theatre. 
Caravan Park: If you’ve brought your accommodation with you try the Heritage Caravan Park
Budget to Mid-Range Hotels: Aurora Alice Springs offers good value only 300m from town. There is also the Desert Palms.
Luxury Hotels: Check out the Quest Alice Springs.

What to See and Do in Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a remote town in Australia’s Northern Territory. It is halfway between Darwin and Adelaide, both being 1,500km away. Visitors use Alice Springs as a gateway for exploring the Red Centre, but there is plenty to see and do in Alice Springs also.

• Take the hop-on hop-off bus tour around the city
• Head to Todd Mall and check out the Aboriginal art work – there are a number of outlets in town.
• Get great views over Alice Springs and the surrounding MacDonnell Ranges at ANZAC Hill. You can walk to the top in about 10-15 minutes, depending on how fast you walk up hills. ANZAC Hill Memorial is located at the top and is a memorial to those members of the armed forces who served during WWI.
• Learn about the Overland Telegraph Line, linking Darwin and Adelaide at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve. Walk around the old buildings originally built in 1872.
• Go to a camel farm and have a ride on a camel.
• Visit the MacDonnel Ranges

View over Alice Springs from ANZAC Hill

Telegraph Station, Alice Springs

After yesterday’s full day of getting to know Alice Springs, hire a car and begin the 5 and half hour drive to Uluru stopping off at Kings Canyon (3 and a half hours away) for the afternoon. Walk around the rim (if time) and be treated to fabulous views. Climb the rocks and be ‘a cock in a frock on a rock’ as per the movie ‘Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’.

Walk the rim of Kings Canyon

Continue the drive to Uluru for your first night. If there in time, watch the sunset over Uluru.

Where to Stay in Uluru

There are a number of accommodation options for your visit to Uluru. Note that the accommodation is based in Yulara some 25km away from Uluru. Options available range from camping to luxury hotels, with fabulous views of the surrounding area.

Camping: Ayers Rock Resort – The Ayers Rock camp ground has a choice of tent sites, air-conditioned cabins and powered and unpowered sites for caravans, motor homes and camper trailers.
Hotels: Lost Camel Hotel, Outback Pioneer Lodge and Outback Pioneer Hotel
Luxury: Sails in the Desert and Desert Gardens Hotel which boasts rooms with a view of Uluru.
Apartment: Emu Walk Apartments
Glamping: Longitude131

Things to See and Do in Uluru

• Get up early to see a sunrise over Uluru.
• Do the Base Walk around Uluru
• Hire a bike and ride around
• Discover the Discovery Centre and the local Aboriginal culture. May take a cooking class and eat local delicacies.
• Visit the Field of Lights
• Take a day trip to Kata Tjuta

Uluru late in the afternoon – see it change colour

Get up close and personal with the rock domes at Kata Tjuta – The Olgas

READ MORE: 8 Day Central Australia Itinerary – Central Australia has many iconic spots, extend your time here on this 1 month Australia itinerary.

Days 26-29 – Cairns + Great Barrier Reef

After a flight of 2 hours and 10 minutes you will arrive in Cairns, your stepping off point to the Great Barrier Reef. Check in to your accommodation and get to know Cairns with a walk around its streets. Cairns is where the rainforest meets the reef.

Where to Stay in Cairns: book for 4 nights

Hostel: There are a number of hostels in Cairns including the ‘Mad Monkey’ chain of hostels. So if looking for a bed in a hostel check out the Mad Monkey Waterfront or the Mad Monkey Central.
Budget Hotel: Prefer a room in a budget hotel, get rates and availability for Palm Royale Cairns. Close to everything and has a fabulous pool to cool off after a hot day sightseeing in Cairns.
Splurge Hotel: If you wanted to splurge for your last few nights in Australia, Cairns is a great place to do it. Check out rates and availability for Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns or Pullman Cairns International.

What to See and Do in Cairns

• Enter the Cairns Aquarium which connects you with 16,000 species of animals across 10 different ecosystems and 71 different exhibits – while also owning the bragging rights as the only aquarium in the world to showcase wildlife from two World Heritage-listed sites.
• Discover the history of Cairns at the Cairns Museum.
• Walk along Cairns Esplanade enjoying the water and parks and take a dip in the Cairns Lagoon. A public pool with 4800 square meters of saltwater swimming space fronting the Coral Sea.
• Visit the 38-hectare tropical Cairns Botanic Gardens, five minutes from the Cairns CBD.
• Take a day trip out to Green Island and the Great Barrier Reef. BOOK Your day trip to Green Island in the Great Barrier Reef online here.
• Drive up the mountains to Kuranda taking in the Crater Lakes, the Barron Falls and the Curtain Fig Tree. Or take the scenic railway winding its way up the mountains offering some wonderful views. You could also take the Skyrail Cableway to Kuranda. BOOK Your day trip to Kuranda online here.
• Maybe leave the tropical far north and head in to the Gulf Savannah for a trip to the Undarra Lave Caves, which are the longest in the world and stretch for some 16km.

Cairns Esplanade

see coral while snorkelling at Green Island, Great Barrier Reef

Kuranda Railway

Day 30 – to Sydney

All great things come to an end, and this is the same for your one month holiday in Australia. Today, fly to Sydney for your flight home.

Extend your stay in Australia by coming to Australia on a working holiday visa. Read my Australia Working Holiday Maker Visa Guide post here for details.

More Australia information and content at my Australia website: Discover Australia Now.

A visit to Phuket is a must on your 1 Month Thailand Itinerary

So you’ve decided to go on holiday to Thailand and you have one month to spend there. Thailand is one of the more popular places to visit in Asia. This country has so much to offer, from beautiful temples, jungles and waterfalls, pristine beaches, incredible food and the friendliest people. If you are thinking of visiting Thailand and it will be your first trip to Thailand, use this 4 week itinerary for Thailand to plan your trip and see all the highlights Thailand has to offer. 

Thailand is a versatile country that has something for everyone. Zipline through the jungle in North Thailand or dive into the crystal clear water in the Gulf of Thailand. Get a Thai Massage after a long day of exploring temples or sit by the pool bar and enjoy the lights of Bangkok. But most of all, immerse yourself in Thailand on this Thailand for a month adventure, particular if it is your first ever visit to Thailand.

My guide to Thailand is divided into two sections. The first being the 1 month Thailand itinerary and the second, helping you prepare for you trip to Thailand. So, let’s begin!

Thailand 1 Month Itinerary at a Glance

This 1 month Thailand itinerary spends 2 weeks on mainland Thailand visiting the major cities of interest. From Bangkok to Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand. Then the second 2 weeks is spent island hopping off Southern Thailand. Now Thailand has many wonderful islands to visit, some more well-known than others. Check out the map I have done showing you some of the islands and the city highlights of this Thailand month long itinerary. 

To get to know Thailand during this month long itinerary I suggest spending your time as follows. 

• Bangkok – 7 days – includes 4 days in Bangkok plus one day trips to Pattaya, Ayutthaya and Kanchanabri. An alternative to 7 days in Bangkok could be to spend 3 days in Bangkok, then travel to Ayutthaya for 2 days and then onto Kanchanabri for 2 days before heading to Chang Mai. I chose the first option as I had a base but if you are a budget backpacker you may want to keep on the move.
• Chiang Mai and Chang Rai – 3-5 days
• 1 day travelling to either Trat or Krabi in Southern Thailand to begin island hopping. These two cities are great step off points in Thailand for the islands.
• 2 weeks of Island hopping

1 Month Thailand Itinerary

Bangkok, 7 Days

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and there is a lot to see and do so spending time in Bangkok should be included in any trip to Thailand.

Where to Stay in Bangkok – Bangkok Accommodation Options

Most tourists stay near Khao San Road that is close to all the sights, restaurants and nightlife. If you are near the MRT or BTS you’ll be able to go anywhere without much hassle. There are other quieter and more authentic areas to stay at but for your first trip to Bangkok, I would suggest staying near Khao San Road. Other areas to consider are Riverside, Sukhumvit and / or Chinatown. I would suggest booking accommodation that has a rooftop pool and bar if possible. Believe me, after a hard day of sightseeing in the Thailand heat, you will be pleased to have a dip in the pool and a cool drink!

For a budget hostel check out pricing and availability for Here Hostel Bangkok.
Seeking a mid-range hotel with a rooftop pool check out pricing and availability for Hotel Royal Bangkok@Chinatown– this is where I stayed and I loved it.
For a first-class hotel with a rooftop pool check out pricing and availability for Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok.
If travelling to Thailand with your family and wanting a kid friendly hotel in Bangkok there are also plenty of options.

For more Bangkok accommodation options, and accommodation in other areas of Thailand, visit Booking.com.

Reclining Buddha

Decorated Spires inside The Grand Palace

Day 4 – Day Trip to Pattaya

You can find Pattaya on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast. It is about a 2 hour journey by bus or train from Bangkok but a day tour will ensure you see all the highlights. Once a sleeping fishing village it is now known for its beaches that are lined with resort hotels, high rise condos, shopping malls, cabaret bars and 24-hour clubs. I guess you can compare it to the Gold Coast in Queensland or Cancun in Mexico for the attractions it offers. If you want to leave the beach then head to nearby Wat Phra Ya Temple to see it’s 18m tall golden Buddha! You could end your day with a cabaret show!

>>> Book your day trip to Pattaya to enjoy a cabaret show here.

Day 5 – Day Trip to Ayutthaya

Discover ruined temples at Ayutthaya, photo credit: Paul from Paulmarina

Ayutthaya is the former capital of Siam, which was destroyed by the Burmese army. Siam is the former kingdom and country of Thailand. Today, Ayutthaya is a vast area containing ruins of temples, but you will also find active temples there. What made it all famous in the last years, is a stone Buddha head overgrown by tree roots. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of historical buildings worth exploring on a dedicated day trip. Add the Ayutthaya temple ruins (Wat Mahathat) to your bucket list. As well as the oldest temple with the huge golden Buddha (Wat Phanan Choeng) and the active monastery (Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon). It is recommended to get a guide with a transportation option because you will actually get to know more about the history and customs of the area. Besides, Ayutthaya is massive, and the heat is unforgiving, so getting around by car or tuktuk is a huge plus point! A guide will also help you understand and respect religious customs, which can be a bit overwhelming if you are new to Thailand or South-East Asia.

>>> Book your day trip to Ayutthaya here

Day 6 – Day Trip to Kanchanaburi

Bridge over the River Kwai, photo by De Wet from Museum of Wander

Just two hours outside bustling Bangkok is one of Southeast Asia’s most relaxing places to visit. Kanchanaburi is beautiful and has some of the country’s best historical and natural sights. The top attraction in Kanchanaburi is the infamous Kwai River Bridge. The steel bridge spanning the Kwai River was a major point in the Burma railway the Japanese tried to build. It is here, the scene of some of the most gruesome events in Asia during World War II.  After walking across the bridge, visit the World War II war cemetery in town. The well-kept cemetery is the final resting place of thousand of POWs who lost their lives while working on the railway line.

>>> Book your day trip to Kanchanaburi here

Day 7 – Bangkok

Back in Bangkok the day is yours free to re-visit places in Bangkok you liked or to discover more of Bangkok. Many use the day to travel to Chiang Mai or take the overnight train.

Chiang Mai, 3-5 Days

Chiang Mai is the next port of call on this 1 month Thailand itinerary. It is definitely worth a visit. Chiang Mai can be found in the north of country. If you are wondering why you should travel 8 hours or so to get there, you won’t be disappointed. The Old City has many temples to visit and it is surrounded by gorgeous greenery and incredible wildlife. This is why many digital nomads choose to live here.

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

Some accommodation options for staying in Chiang Mai include:

Monkey Toe Guesthouse is a great budget option located just north of the Old Town. Check pricing and availability of Monkey Toe Guesthouse here

A mid-range accommodation in Chiang Mai is the gorgeous U Chiang Mai Hotel. What i like is if you check in at 5 pm, you don’t check out until 5 pm the next day. Check pricing and availability for U Chiang Mai here

For a splurge option in Chiang Mai check out 137 Pillars. This place is great if you really want a treat. The buildings themselves are stunning, and so is the croquet lawn! Each room has a dedicated butler – need I say more? Check pricing and availability for 137 Pillars here

What to See and Do in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Day 1 – Get to Know the Old Town

Day 1 in Chiang Mai should be spent getting to know Chiang Mai Old Town. Inside the walls of the old town you will find many temples. In fact there are around 300 temples in Chiang Mai with many located inside the Old Town. Some of the most popular to visit include:

• Wat Pra Singh
• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (outside the city but easy enough to get to by tuk-tuk)
• Wat Chedi Luang
• Wat Chiang Man
• Wat Lok Moli

You will do a lot of walking in Chiang Mai, so I hope you packed a good pair of walking shoes! You can always flag down a tuk-tuk to get you around. They are cheap and cheerful and provide a great Thai experience. And after all the walking, maybe treat yourself to a Thai foot massage! There are plenty of parlours dotted around the city where you can get a foot massage for a mere $5.

Food is great tasting in Chiang Mai. You can find many restaurants and cafes for some great food or why not take a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai – if you didn’t in Bangkok. Even if you did, learn another dish in Chiang Mai!

>>> Book a Cooking Class in Chiang Mai here

Chiang Mai Day 2 – Spend it With the Elephants

In Chiang Mai, you’ll be close to some of nature’s most beautiful creatures – elephants! There are many different elephant sanctuaries across Thailand, but Chiang Mai offers some of the best places to see them in an ethical way. These sanctuaries have the seal of approval from World Animal Protection.

>>> Booking Your Day with Elephants here

Chiang Mai Day 3 – Discover the Waterfalls

>>> Book your tour to Sticky Waterfalls here

READ MORE: How to Spend 3 Days in Chiang Mai

I’ve budget up to 5 days in Chiang Mai in this one month Thailand itinerary. So you can extend your stay here or head to Chiang Rai for a day or so taking in this mountainous area with plenty of temples, particularly Wat Rong Khun, the famous White Temple and waterfalls. Maybe take a tour or drive to the Golden Triangle. Yep, 1-2 hours north of Chiang Rai is where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet. The area has an very interesting drug trade history which you can discover at the Opium House Museum. End your days in Chiang Rai at Chiang Rai’s Night Bazaar. This small market near the bus station offers a great chance for souvenir shopping. From Chiang Rai head back to Chiang Mai to travel south to begin island hopping. You could catch the overnight train back to Bangkok then fly to the islands or fly from Chiang Mai Airport.

Two Weeks Thailand Island Hopping

After a wonderful 2 weeks discovering vibrant Bangkok, the old capital of Ayutthaya, the Bridge at the River Kwai and tropical Chiang Mai it’s time for some island hopping in Thailand. Thailand has a number of islands to visit to relax on the beach – I hoped you packed for a beach holiday?, go hiking see waterfalls, enjoy Thai food or enjoy some of the best scuba diving in the world. 

Thailand’s islands can be found all around the coastline of Thailand with some in The Gulf of Thailand and others in The Andaman Sea. The islands are well connected by ferries and have different styles of accommodation available on them to suit all budgets. Check out Booking.com for accommodation on your chosen island/s.

Which Thailand Island to Visit?

Each Thailand island has plenty to offer. Trat is a great stepping off point for the islands in The Gulf of Thailand while Krabi is a good place for island hopping in The Andaman Sea. Each are special in their own way. To enjoy each you may want to spend a couple of days on each – if you have the time or choose a couple and stay longer on them.

Islands in The Gulf of Thailand

There are many islands in The Gulf of Thailand to island hop. Head to Trat and jump off to some of the best Koh Chang, Koh May, Koh Hood, Koh Tao, Koh Phi Ngan and Koh Samui. Why visit these Thai islands? 

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is the largest of the three islands of Koh Chang, Koh May and Koh Hood. This is one of the best places to enjoy the beautiful sunsets Thailand has to offer. Hire a bike or scooter and head to the fishing village to learn about the history of Koh Chang. Jump in the water to cool down at one of the many beaches. Or visit one of the many waterfalls you can find on this island.

Koh Mak

Take a ferry from Koh Chang and head to Koh Mak, the smallest of these islands. Koh Mak doesn’t allow cars other than the taxis and songtaews that are part of the resorts and there aren’t a lot of buildings. This is the best place to go snorkeling because the water is clear and there are a lot of places where you’ll spot fish, coral, sea urchins, and other beautiful wildlife. You could rent a kayak or paddle board and head to one of the tiny islands close by for a day as well.

Koh Kood

The other island is Koh Kood, which has enormous old trees that are worth a visit. Of course, you will find beautiful beaches here as well. There is another fishing village here where you can get the best and freshest seafood. Take time to relax at the beach or hire a bike or scooter to discover the island. And if you haven’t had enough waterfalls, go explore them at Koh Kood. There are several scattered throughout the island.

At the end of your trip, you’ll simply head back to Trat by ferry. Either take a bus or flight back to Bangkok from Trat or fly to other islands like Koh Tao, Koh Pha Ngan or Koh Samui. 

Koh Samui

Lying off the east coast of Thailand, Koh Samui is Thailand’s second largest island. Known for its coconut groves, luxury resorts and spas, it is a must visit for couples, families and adventurers.

One of it’s biggest draws are the beautiful beaches on Koh Samui, each catering for a different type of traveler – from budget to five star. Other must sees include the Big Buddha temple, Fishermans village, and the Samui elephant sanctuary, where you can feed and care for these gentle giants. For dinner, Coco Tam’s beach bar is unmissable, just make sure you stay until 10pm to enjoy the fire show on the sand (dubbed the best in Koh Samui). 

Islands In The Andaman Sea 

The islands off Thailand in the Andaman Sea are world-renowned. It’s here where you will find Phuket and the iconic James Bond Island’. If this is your first time in Thailand, then I would be putting these islands on your itinerary for your first visit to Thailand. Then you can ticket them off your Thailand bucket list.

Book a Beach Bungalow for a Thailand Beach Holiday

Krabi

Krabi is definitely one of the best places to visit in Thailand. It’s not actually an island, but an area on Thailand’s coast and is well worth the visit, especially when traveling to Thailand for the first time. This beautiful region is located in the south of Thailand on the Andaman Sea and is easily accessible by flight from Bangkok or Chiang Mai.

Krabi is famous for its fascinating rugged limestone cliffs, dense green jungle, snow-white sandy beaches, turquoise sea and breathtaking islands! The resorts of Ao Nang and picturesque Klong Muang are a particularly good recommendation for a vacation.

During a visit to Krabi, you can visit numerous sights. Highlights being the Peninsula Railay with the world famous Railay Beach and the even more beautiful Phra Nang Beach. As well as discovering Krabi, it is a great stepping off point for many islands including Koh Hong, Koh Poda and Chicken Island, where there is a chicken head rock. As well as plenty of islands to discover you can climb the countless steps of the high Tiger Cave Temple. Or visit to the Elephant Sanctuary Krabi.

Phuket

The famous James Bond Island located in Phan Nga Bay – Phuket is an absolute bucket list destination in Thailand. The great thing is that you can visit the island for less than $50 on a day trip!

Leaving on the boat from Phuket you will pass many breathtaking limestone cliffs before arriving at the magical James Bond Island. This island was featured in the movie ‘The Man with the Golden Gun’. Before the 1974 movie, starring Roger Moore and Christopher Lee literally no international tourists had heard about James Bond Island. Now, it’s popularity has exploded and it is a must-see in Thailand during your island hopping odyssey.

The beautiful thin limestone cliff of James Bond Island has a really unusual shape and rises majestically out the sea. It is very slim at the bottom and gets wider towards the top. Very impressive to see. Now you can’t go onto James Bond Island – it is really for viewing only. You can admire it from a small beach opposite it on Koh Ping Ghan.

Koh Phi Phi

Many water enthusiasts add Koh Phi Phi to their Thailand itinerary as it’s waters are filled with exotic marine life. If you are a keen snorkeler or scuba diver, you will love a visiting this island for the fabulous diving spots. But you can lounge around at the beach all day if you prefer!

Organising Your Thailand Holiday

Things to Know Before You Go to Thailand

Tip 1: Dress modestly, especially when you’re visiting temples. If you’re not wearing the right clothes you won’t be allowed to enter or they will give you something to cover up. Most Thai people practice Buddhism. Give way to monks when walking on footpaths, and don’t sit next to them on public transport. Women can’t touch a monk or their belongings.

Tip 2: People appreciate it if you speak their language. Learn at least the basics for saying hello (Sawadee krap/ka) and goodbye, thank you (Kap khun krap/ka), and a few other phrases.

Tip 3: Don’t forget to try the local food because it’s amazing. Just remember that Thai people love spicy food so if they say a little spicy it might still be more than what you were expecting. Fortunately, they have fresh fruit juices to calm your tongue after a spicy meal.

Tip 4: Before you visit, make sure to check Thailand visa requirements. Travelers from most countries can stay visa-free in Thailand for up to one month (30 days), the perfect amount of time to explore this incredible country. 

Tip 5: Before you start your Thailand One Month Itinerary, get an International Driver’s License. One of the easiest ways to get around in Thailand is by scooter or motorbike. To rent a motorbike in Thailand, often you only need to provide the tour company your passport or a 2000+ baht deposit. No license check necessary. However, in case of accidents or random police check-points, it’s best to have an International Driver’s License on you. 

Tip 6: I recommend staying close to the centre of each city you visit. Being walking distance to many of the sights and restaurants will save on time and money spent on transportation. If possible, in Bangkok, book accommodation that has a rooftop pool and bar. Believe me, after a hard day of sightseeing in Thailand heat, you will enjoy a dip in the pool and a cool drink while overlooking the lights of Bangkok.

Tip 7: Purchase Travel Insurance. Anything can happen when you’re traveling in Thailand, especially when you’re riding your first scooter, snorkeling, hiking up mountains or sliding down waterfalls. Be prepared for anything by purchasing travel insurance before you depart. Get a quote from World Nomads insurance, or SafetyWing. 

When to Visit Thailand

The best time to visit Thailand weather-wise is between November to March. But this means it’s also the busiest season, especially in December and January when people come here to celebrate Christmas or New Year.

If you’re looking to visit Thailand’s coast try the shoulder season – April to June and September and October. The climate differs between the eastern and western coasts, where the west coast is more suitable for September and October.

If you don’t mind a little bit of rain and prefer to spend as little money as possible, visit Thailand in July to October. This is the low season, so you’ll get better prices for everything.

Getting to Thailand

Many arrive in Thailand by plane at Suvarnabhumi Airport, also known unofficially as Bangkok International Airport. However, if you are already in Asia you can cross from one of the border countries with Thailand. They being, Myammar, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia.

From the airport you will need to get to your accommodation in Bangkok. There are a couple of ways. You can take The Airport Rail Link. This connects the airport to the city. Trains depart every 15 minutes between 6am and midnight. The cost is a reasonable 45 Bahts. You could also take a taxi which can cost between 250 and 450 Bahts depending on your destination and the traffic. Or you can book private transport. Private transport will pick you up at the airport and take you to your accommodation. I chose this option, well, it chose me, it was included with my accommodation. You can book private transport by clicking here.

Getting around Thailand

Public transport is quite good in Thailand and inexpensive. Whether you are traveling by bus, train, or airplane, there are a lot of options. One thing a lot of people add to their itinerary is the sleeper train between Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

In cities, you will see red songtaews that are basically shared taxis that will take you anywhere. Just make sure to agree on a price before getting in. Grab is popular as well in Thailand and they have cars, taxis, and scooters.

Although traffic in Thailand seems quite chaotic there is a system to the madness. If you decide to hire a car, scooter, or bike it won’t be hard to blend in. Just pay attention to the locals and do as they do. And don’t forget to organise an International Driver’s Licence to hire a vehicle.

Quick Thailand Facts

Capital City of Thailand is Bangkok.
Local currency is Bhat.
Koh means island and we visit a lot of Kohs on this Thailand 1 month trip.

What to Pack for a Holiday in Thailand?

When packing for a holiday in Thailand, be governed by the weather. Most of the time it is hot and humid so pack light clothes. Also a good pair of walking shoes as you will do plenty of walking. And don’t forget the sunscreen and a hat for those lazy days at the beach or by the pool.

Tip: Appearances mean a lot in Thailand so dressing properly and being respectful of dress regulations you should be treated in return with respect. Thailand does not have a specific dress code in general but when visiting temples there is a specific dress code for tourists and locals. You must have covered shoulders and wear pants or dresses that cover your knees and preferably your ankles also. Men should wear a collared shirt rather than a t-shirt. And you must take your shoes off in temples. Keep all beach wear for the beach.

Your packing list for Thailand should include:

Documents. Passport, visa (if needed), money and credit cards, travel insurance details, pre-booked entrance and Hop-on Hop-off bus tickets, pre-booked accommodation details. Also take an International Driver’s Licence as one of the easiest ways to get around backpacking in Thailand is by scooter or motorbike.
Clothes. It is mostly hot and humid in Thailand so thin materials that breathe and keep you cool are a must pack. You will need underwear, shorts and t-shirts, long pants or skirts for visiting temples, a scarf or sarong to cover your head, and I always include a light jacket. You just never know, as some nights can get cool. Ensure you have good walking shoes as you will be walking a lot.
Electronics. Phone, camera, power adaptor plug and power bank. Laptop and any other gear if you are a digital nomad.
Toiletries.
Luggage. As you will be moving around every few days on this itinerary of Italy, ensure your luggage is easy to carry.

How Much Money to Take to Thailand for a 1 month holiday?

To work out how much it will cost to visit Thailand for 30 days or so, I suggest you create a budget. List it out as follows:

Airfare or transport to Thailand _____
Transport to travel around Thailand _____
Accommodation 28 nights @ _____
Food _____ is this included? Is breakfast included in accommodation stay?
Extras _____ ie. entrance fees to museums and other sites
Travel Insurance ______

TIP: Purchase as much as possible before you arrive then you don’t have to worry about taking extra money.

And how will you take your money on your Thailand holiday? Take cash, credit and debit cards to give you the flexibility to pay for things.

Is One Month in Thailand long enough?

Spending one month in Thailand is long enough to visit the country. One month will allow you to visit all the best parts of Thailand. The capital of Bangkok, north to Chiang Mai and south to island hop. But the longer you have, the more you will be able to see and do. Some people fall in love with Thailand and want to stay. And there are options including the Elite Visa and talk of a Digital Nomad visa. So how long to visit Thailand? How long have you got? One month in Thailand is a great beginning.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is highly recommended for your trip to Thailand. Get a quote for travel insurance from WorldNomads or SafetyWing.

Are You Ready to Plan your Perfect Itinerary for 1 Month Thailand Holiday?

There is so much to see and do in Thailand. If you use this 1 month itinerary for Thailand you will see the best of Thailand has to offer. And like many fall in love with the country and want to stay longer! Have you been to Thailand? Or are planning your first visit to Thailand? Do you have any questions about visiting Thailand for the first time? Ask away in the comments.

If you want to spend longer than a month in Thailand you will need to see what visas are available.

READ MORE:

Thailand Digital Nomad Visa
Expat Life in Thailand
Get a Job Teaching English in Thailand

Thanks to a car-friendly culture and an unrivalled network of highways, taking a road trip across America is very appealing. And if you are looking for inspiration for a USA road trip look no further. Based on my own American travels I have put together this 1 month USA road trip itinerary taking you to many of the best bits of America. Of course you can’t go everywhere in one month, but we give it a good try on this road trip in America. 

Where to Start this American Road Trip?

This great American road trip starts in New York and ends in San Francisco. Of course, you can do the trip in reverse or even deviate. This itinerary is a driving itinerary of the USA so you will need a car. A car or a van. If you don’t have one you can rent one, get availability and a great rate here. If you aren’t taking your accommodation with you, you will need to find accommodation at each nightly stop. Either walk in to a motel when you have pulled into town or book in advance. I always use Booking.com when pre-booking accommodation. When searching for accommodation it shows me what accommodation is available, if it is available and the price.

Unfortunately, we can’t visit every state on this road trip, but this road trip is a good start. It includes visits to many cities as you cross the USA from coast to coast. There are many routes you could take across the USA, I hope you enjoy this one.

1 Month Across USA Road Trip Itinerary at a Glance

Days
1-3 – New York
4 – driving to Washington
5-6 – Washington
7 – driving to Chicago
8-10 – Chicago
11-20 – Route 66 – Chicago to Santa Monica
21-23 – Los Angeles
24-26 – driving to San Francisco
27-29 – San Francisco

Days 1-3 – New York City, NY

Times Square, New York

New York is home to over eight million people and is where this one month USA road trip itinerary begins. There is so much to see and do here in New York to make the time to see as much as you can. After settling in to your accommodation, start making the most of your time in New York. I hope you’ve brought a good pair of walking shoes!

Where to Stay in New York

Hostel: Jazz on the Park Youth Hostel
Budget Hotel: Bowery Grand Hotel
Mid-range Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott Times Square West
Splurge Hotel: Hyatt Grand Central New York

Best Things to See and Do in New York

• You may wish to purchase a New York City Pass allowing you to save on entrance fees. 
• Take the New York Hop-on Hop-off Bus to all the best bests in New York. Then you can go back to those spots you want to spend longer at.
• Go on a walking tour of New York, which you can book through GetYourGuide. 
• See the Statue of Liberty when you pay a visit to Ellis Island. Or take the Ferry to Staten Island and see it for free while passing by.
• Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum – There is a park commemorating the victims of 9/11 at the base of the Freedom Tower. Head inside the museum and see over 14,000 artefacts from that that day. 
• Go to the top of the Empire State Building for great views over the city. Hopefully, it is a clear day.
• Wander Central Park. This 843 acre park is one of the bet free attractions in town. Walk, hike, picnic or just people watch.
• Cross the Brooklyn Bridge for great Manhattan skyline views. It will take about 40 minutes to cross but this depends on how many photo stops you make. 
• Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art (the Met) to see some of the best art collections in the world.

For more ideas of things to see and do in New York City, here’s my suggested New York itinerary.

Days 4-6 – to Washington, DC

Abraham Lincoln in the memorial

Distance: Washington is around 204 miles (329 km) from New York City and should take around four and a half hours to drive. Washington, DC, is the capital of the USA. There are plenty of iconic buildings to visit here.

Where to Stay in Washington

Hostel: DC International Hostel 2
Budget: The Westin Washington DC
Mid-range Hotel: Washington Plaza Hotel
Splurge Hotel: Sofitel Lafayette Hotel

Best Things to See and Do in Washington

• Take the Washington Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour to see all the best spots in Washington. Then you can return to those you want to stay longer at.
• Visit iconic buildings of the Capital, White House and Supreme Court.
• See the Lincoln Memorial. This is a 19-foot statue of America’s 16th president that is surrounded by 36 columns – one for each state in the union at the time of his death in 1865. It is located on the National Mall. 
• Tour the Smithsonian Institution which is a group of world-class museums and research centres. Definitely visit the Air and Space Museum and the American Art Museum.

Days 7 – Drive to Chicago via Pittsburg

Distance: Chicago is a long drive from Washington. Some 700 miles (1126 km) which will take anywhere up to 11-12 hours to undertake, depending on stops you make. You may want to even stop in Pittsburg for a day or so. 

Days 8-10 – Chicago, Illinois

When in Chicago eating Deep Pan Pizza is a must!

Welcome to the Windy City – Chicago. Why is it called the windy city? Two reasons. First because of strong winds that can hit the city plus, it was believed a lot of people were full of wind! Find out for yourself!

Where to Stay in Chicago

Hostel: Hi Chicago Hostel
Budget: Gateway Inn
Mid-range Hotel: Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago
Splurge Hotel: Viceroy Chicago

Best Things to See and Do in Chicago

• Start your visit to Chicago on the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour which will take you to all the best spots in Chicago. Then you can choose which ones you wish to return to.
• Relax in Grant and Millennium Parks. Both parks are great to relax in, have a picnic or walk around.
• Enjoy a Deep-dish Pizza. Chicago is known for deep-dish pizzas so definitely try this local favourite.

Start your drive along Route 66 at the sign on the northwest corner of Adams Street and Michigan Avenue. Why not get a photo if you can to commemorate the beginning of this 1 month USA road trip journey.

Days 11-20 – Route 66

Route 66 is one of the world’s most iconic drives. It starts in Chicago and ends at Santa Monica Pier in California. Travelling some 2200 miles, if you drive direct it would take a couple of days. On this 1 month USA road trip, I have budgeted 10 days for the drive where you will take in some of the best things in the USA to see along the way. Head over to my post The Best Things to See and Do on Route 66 for this part of the road trip USA itinerary. Starting in Chicago, Illinois you will travel across 8 states. Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona before arriving in California and the end of the road at Santa Monica Pier.

There is plenty to see along Route 66 and you can deviate off the road to visit iconic places like the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas.

Days 21-23 – Los Angeles

See Disneyland Castle in Disneyland, Anaheim, Los Angeles

Route 66 ends at Santa Monica Pier in California. You could stay here and use it as your base to discover Los Angeles.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Hostel: Samesun Hollywood
Budget Hotel: Metro Plaza Hotel
Mid-range Hotel: Tuscon Garden Inn
Splurge Hotel: Beverly Whilshire

Best Things to See and Do in Los Angeles

• Take the Hop on Hop off LA Sightseeing Bus and be driven to all the best sights in Los Angeles.
• Visit the Hollywood Sign high in Hollywood Hills.
• Take a tour of Paramount Studios and or Warner Bros Studios or Universal Studios.
• Spend the day or two at Disneyland.
• Shop till you drop along Rodeo Drive.
• Hit the beach at Malibu – or wait and visit on your drive up to San Francisco.

Days 24-26 drive to San Francisco

Bixby Creek Bridge

The drive between Los Angeles and San Francisco along the Pacific Coast Highway is approximately 445 miles (716 km) long. If you were to drive directly without deviating you could complete the drive in about nine hours. However, there is plenty to see along this scenic drive and I have budgeted 3 days to drive it. Places to stop along the Pacific Coast Highway could include:

• Santa Monica. Home of the Santa Monica Pier where Route 66 ends, if you didn’t finish Route 66 here, then you might want to visit. Walk along the pier and get that tourist shot of you on the pier!
• Next stop could be Malibu. Check out some of the multi-million dollar homes or visit some of the beautiful beaches. Depending on the weather you might want to relax at the beach for a couple of hours or enjoy a good meal.
• Santa Barbara could be next on your list to visit. Stroll along the harbour or go one of Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Trails. You will discover some of the best wine in California!
• On leaving Santa Barbara pass a few beaches and deviate to Hearst Castle outside of San Simeon. This caslte was built by the newspaper mogul William Hearst. If you ever wanted to feel like you are in Europe, visit this castle!
• Elephant Seal Vista Point could be your next stop. See elephant seals relaxing on the beach.
• A highlight along the LA to San Francisco drive is Big Sur. You may want to spend a full day or more here enjoying the walks in the spectacular natural scenery. Ensure to stop at the iconic sites of Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Waterfall.
• Stop in towns of Carmel, Monterey and Santa Cruz where you might want to spend the night!
• Half Moon Bay is around 30 minutes south of San Francisco and is worth a stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee before arriving in San Francisco.

Days 27-29 San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Ah, San Francisco, famous for its cable cars, Golden Gate Bridge and great restaurants. A stay of a few days is a must.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

Hostel: Hi San Francisco Downtown Hostel
Budget Hotel: Hotel Amari
Mid-range Hotel: Queen Anne
Splurge Hotel: The Ritz Carlton, San Francisco

Best Things to See and Do in San Francisco

• Take the Hop on Hop off Bus tour of San Francisco. Get taken to all the iconic spots that you can revisit at your leisure.
• Go to the Golden Gate Bridge. Opened in 1937, it is one of the longest suspension bridges ever created. It links San Francisco Bay and Marin County.
• Spend some time at San Francisco’s most famous waterfront community – Fisherman’s Wharf.
• Visit Alcatraz Island and discover for yourself how hard it would be to escape from.
• Take a ride on a cable car.
• Disney lovers may want to visit The Walt Disney Family Museum and learn about the life of Walt Disney.

And so ends this 1 month across USA road trip itinerary.

Where to next? What about 1 month in Hawaiian Island Hopping?

Aloha (Hello). So you have a month holiday and you have decided to spend it in Hawaii – lucky you! Hawaii is one of my favourite places on the planet to visit and I have visited many times. I’m attracted to Hawaii for many reasons. I love its great weather, beautiful beaches with crystal clear water, breathtaking scenery, indigenous Hawaiian culture, an interesting history, magnificent sunsets over the ocean and fabulous food. In this post, I am going to list the best things to see and do during your visit to the Hawaiian Islands. Whether you are visiting Hawaii on a family trip, backpacking Hawaii or honeymooning in Hawaii, this itinerary has something for all. You will visit 6 Hawaiian Islands – Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and the Big Island of Hawaii. So let’s get into it, here’s my suggested 1 month Hawaiian island hopping itinerary.  

Of course, if you don’t have 1 month available to spend in Hawaii you can always reduce the time you spend on each island to a 3 week Hawaiian itinerary or a 2 week Hawaiian Island itinerary. If you only have one week in Hawaii, I would suggest you spend most of your time on Oahu, the main island and maybe include a day trip or two to the other islands.

Quick Hawaiian Facts

How to Get to Hawaii – As Hawaii is surrounded by ocean, the best way to get to Hawaii is to fly. To compare airfares and to get a airfare great deal check out Skyscanner.
Where to Stay – Hawaii has plenty of accommodation options available. From hostels to budget, mid-range and splurge hotels and resorts to apartments. Hawaii has it all. I have listed some accommodation further in the post for each island. In general, research properties on Booking.com.
How to Get Around – There are plenty of options to get around Hawaii. From walking to the Waikiki Trolley to renting a car to going on an organised day trip organised through GetYourGuide.
Do you need holiday insurance for Hawaii? – You bet. Take out Holiday Insurance as you just don’t know what could happen – Get a quote from World Nomads here.
Wear Reef Safe sunscreen!
How Many Hawaiian Islands 137, with 7 inhabited – we visit 6 on this 1 Month trip.
Useful words to know: Aloha – hello, Mahalo – thank you.

Where is Hawaii?

The Hawaiian Islands are found in the Pacific Ocean. They are an archipelago of around 137 islands but only 7 of the largest islands are inhabited. Hawaii is the 50th State of the United States of America and is the only state outside of mainland USA. The Hawaiian islands are home to some 1.5 million people with most of them living and working on the main island of Oahu.

When is the Best Time to Visit Hawaii?

The weather is pretty near perfect all year round in Hawaii so anytime is a good time to visit Hawaii. However, many consider the weather before arranging their visit.

Summer in Hawaii is the months of June, July and August. Weather is hot and fabulous during this time. It is also school holiday time so there are many visitors holidaying in the Hawaiian islands. This can make accommodation and transport costs more expensive and there will be plenty of people around wanting to discover Hawaii.

Fall in Hawaii is the months of September, October and November. Weather is pleasant in Hawaii during these months. And even though rain can happy any time, particularly on the windward (north-eastern) side of the islands, November is the beginning of the rainy season.

Winter in Hawaii is the months of December, January and February. These are the ‘off season’ months to visit Hawaii when there are less crowds, great deals on accommodation and the weather is nice.

Spring in Hawaii is the months of March, April, May. The rainy season is usually ending around March, with temperatures beginning to rise. This is a great time to visit Hawaii as the crowds haven’t arrived yet and there can be great deals on Hawaiian accommodation and other services. My family always visited in May, as this is when my dad had his holiday, and the weather was always sunny and warm. I also visited Hawaii solo in November one time and the weather was warm and sunny also. So I think any time is a good time to visit Hawaii.

How Much Money to Take on this 1 month Hawaiian Island Hopping holiday?

To work out how much it will cost to visit Hawaii for 30 days or so, I suggest you create a budget. As everyone comes to Hawaii for different reasons, like backpacking Hawaii, honeymooning in Hawaii or a Hawaiian family vacation, everyone has a different budget. List potential costs of your Hawaiian holiday out as follows:

Airfare or transport to Hawaii _____
Transport option from the airport to your Hawaiian accommodation _____
Transport cost to travel around Hawaii _____
Hawaiian accommodation 28 nights @ _____
Food _____ Is breakfast included in accommodation stay?
Extras _____ ie. entrance fees to museums and other sites
Travel Insurance ______.

TIP: Purchase as much as possible before you arrive then you don’t have to worry about taking extra money or worse, run out of money.

TIP 2: Read my post on How to Save Money for Your Travels to help you get to Hawaii faster.

And how will you take your money on your Hawaiian holiday? Take cash, credit and debit cards to give you the flexibility to pay for things.

Is One Month in Hawaii long enough?

Spending one month in Hawaii is long enough to visit the country. One month will allow you to visit all the best parts of Hawaii. The capital of Honolulu and allow island hopping. But the longer you have, the more you will be able to see and do in Hawaii.

Which is the Best Hawaiian Island to Visit

On this one month Hawaiian Island itinerary we visit 6 of the islands. Each island is beautiful and unique and offers something different to discover. I don’t believe one island is better than the other – but after visiting the islands on this Hawaiian holiday itinerary, you may end up with a favourite island! This is why we island-hop on this 1 month Hawaiian itinerary – so you can experience as much of Hawaii as possible. And you can choose how you want to travel around the islands.

Hawaii 1 Month Vacation at a Glance

This 1 month Hawaiian island itinerary includes visits to 6 of the Hawaiian islands. I wouldn’t say it is action packed, but there is something to see and do every day. Plus, there is lots of relaxing by the pool or swimming, surfing or snorkelling in the beautiful Pacific Ocean. This is a quick glance at how I suggest you spend your one month Hawaiian vacation.

Days
1 – 10 – Oahu (10 days)
11 – 14 – Kauai (4 days)
15 – 21 – Maui (7 days – includes 1 day trip to Lanai, and 1 day trip to Molokai).
22 – 26 – Hawaii (5 days)
27 – 28 – Oahu (1-3 days depending on when you depart).

Be Greeted with a Traditional Hawaiian lei

Many people opt to be greeted at a Hawaiian airport with a traditional Hawaiian lei. While this is special and exciting, they can be expensive. You can find fresh leis at a local grocer for around a 1/4 of the price. So before anyone puts a lei on you, check if it is free first!

How to Travel Between Hawaiian Islands

Is it easy to island hop in Hawaii? Yes, it’s easy and really quick but travelling between neighbouring Hawaiian Islands is limited to inter-island flights. There is one ferry service that sails between Maui and Lanai a few times per day. On this itinerary, due to the cost of the inter-island airfares I have included day visits to a couple of the islands. This will help keep costs of the holiday down by eliminating two flights and accommodation on two of the islands.

Interisland Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines is a great option to help you island hop. Visit their website here to get interisland fares.
Mokulele Airlines operates many flights between 7 of the Hawaiian island cities. Visit their website here to get interisland fares.
Southwest Airlines also offer inter-island Hawaiian flights. Visit their website here to get interisland fares. 

What to Pack for your Hawaiian Holiday?

Clothes worn in Hawaii are very casual, mainly due to the hot and steamy weather. So shorts and t-shirts are fine to wear during the day. At night, it will depend on what you are doing and where you are going, but nice casual evening clothes are a good investment.

READ MORE: What to Pack for a Hawaiian Beach Holiday

1 Month Hawaiian Islands Itinerary

Days 1-10 – Oahu – Hawaii’s Main Island

Get to know Waikiki by taking a walk along the foreshore

If this is your first time to the Hawaiian Islands? Kick this 1 month Hawaiian Island hopping itinerary on the main island of Oahu. Here you will find Honolulu, the capital city of Hawaii and the famous Waikiki Beach.

Where to Stay on Oahu

The best place to stay in Oahu is around Honolulu or Waikiki Beach. Accommodation in this are is very central, and it is easy to do day trips from here. They are also great places just to chill out and relax after a long day sightseeing or lazing on the beach. Book your accommodation on Oahu for 9 nights.

Hostel: The best places to stay in Hawaii on a budget are in a hostel. For a bed in a hostel room I can recommend the Polynesian Hostel Beach Club. A girlfriend and I stayed there for a few nights and it had everything we needed for our stay on Oahu. Get pricing and availability for the Polynesian Hostel Beach Club here.
Hotel: My family stayed in this hotel for most of our visits to Hawaii – the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort. This hotel is a very family friendly Hawaiian hotel. Only a couple of blocks from the beach with great views, this is my favourite hotel in Waikiki to stay at. Get pricing and availability for the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort here.
Splurge Resort: Hawaii is one of the best places to splurge on accommodation, particularly if you are honeymooning in Hawaii. Top of the list is the pink Royal Hawaiian on Waikiki Beach. Get pricing and availability for the Royal Hawaiin here. The other resort would be the Hilton Hawaiian which I have seen as the filming location of the TV show Hawaii Five 0 and the backdrop of other tv shows and movies. The Hilton Hawaiian is right on Waikiki Beach. Get pricing and availability for the Hilton Hawaiian here.

Where to Eat and Drink in Honolulu

There are many places to eat in Waikiki and Honolulu from fast food stores to fine restaurants. Some of my favourites are Duke’s in the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Hotel and the Lilhia Bakery located on the third level of the International Market Place. However, I am sure you will discover many places to your liking yourself. I also love the flavoured shaved ice on a hot day and you cannot come to Hawaii and not try a Mai Tai or Blue Hawaii at one of the bars.

How to Get Around Honolulu and Waikiki

The best way to get around Honolulu and Waikiki is to walk. Everything is relatively close. You can use the public bus system, known as ’TheBus’ and I found it very good. Services were frequent and it only cost a few dollars to travel. You can get to many tourist spots, like Pearl Harbour using the public bus system, however, it will take longer because of the stops and route the bus takes. Lastly, you can use the hop on, hop off Waikiki Trolley. A little more expensive than the public bus system however, it does come with narration so if it is your first time to Waikiki and Honolulu, you can learn a lot from the Waikiki Trolley. Don’t bother renting a car to get around as the Waikiki and Honolulu area are compact and a car is not necessary. Rent one if you want to go to places on the island.

What to See and Do on Oahu

I have listed lots of things to see and do on Oahu following. Some things take a few hours while others can take the whole day. I will let you choose where you want to spend your time during your 9 days on Oahu.

Get to know the beaches of Waikiki

Waikiki Beach is a two-mile long sandy expanse with nine separate beaches. Though you can go to any of the beaches, one of the easiest to access is Fort DeRussy Beach. It’s a great place, as are all the beaches to dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean. Visit the ‘Duke Kahanamoku’ statue on Kūhiō Beach. Duke was born in 1890 and grew up swimming and surfing in Waikiki. He won gold medals at the Olympics and is known as ‘the father of modern surfing’.

Duke’s Statue at Waikiki Beach

Perhaps rent a surf board, stand up paddle board or kayak and get out on the water or just soak up the sunshine at Waikiki. Keep on walking and you will end up at Honolulu Zoo and Kapi’olani Regional Park at the base of Diamond Head.

Walk Kalākaua Avenue

The main street in Waikiki is Kalākaua Avenue. It stretches from Ala Moana down to Kapiʻolani Regional Park. This is a thriving thoroughfare lined with palm trees and jam-packed with malls, restaurants and skyscraper hotels. It is abuzz day and night with people and a must visit on any trip to Honolulu. You may even be staying in one of the hotels along it! Pop into an ABC Store to stock up on things you might need while in Hawaii. They are small convenience stores scattered across Honolulu providing sunscreen, souvenirs and some grocery items. Also visit the International Market Place which is an open-air shopping centre at 2330 Kalākaua Avenue. There are around 100 shops, stalls and restaurants here.

Pearl Harbour National Memorial

Funnel of sunken USS Arizona

On a first-time visit to Hawaii, a must-visit is to the Pearl Harbour National Memorial. Located about a 25-minute drive from Waikiki, Pearl Harbour was scene of the horrific bombing in World War II by the Japanese. The site has three museums to visit but the most emotional part is catching a boat to the USS Arizona Memorial. This memorial lies on the water over the sunken USS Arizona with those who went down with the ship entombed inside. Budget to spend about half a day here. It is best to organise your visit in advance as tours are timed and have a limit to visitors.

Book Your Visit to Pearl Harbour National Memorial here >>>

Hike to the top of Diamond Head

Diamond Head, a volcanic cone, dominates Waikiki’s eastern landscape. As well as being a backdrop for over Waikiki, if you hike to the top of Diamond Head you will be treated with sweeping views of Honolulu and eastern Oahu. You can walk from Waikiki to the Diamond Head trailhead, but it may be worth getting a lift to the park entrance because even though the hike is short, it is steep and unshaded. As you can imagine, this is a popular thing to do when visiting Waikiki. In an effort to resolve trail overcrowding, you will need to make a timed reservation to access the trail.

Swim and Snorkel Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is about one hour north of Honolulu. Some people make a quick visit on their ‘around Oahu island tour’. But this place, a blown out flooded volcano head is full of crystal clear water, white sand and beautiful coloured fish and is a great place to swim and snorkel.

Me enjoying Hanauma Bay

Book Your Visit to Hanauma Bay here >>>

Views Over Oahu at Nu’uanu Pali Lookout

I would choose to visit Nu’uanu Pali Lookout as a stop while on an island tour. However, you can visit on its own as it is a five-mile drive northeast of Honolulu. You will drive along the Pali Highway through tall trees to arrive at the lookout. Pali is Hawaiian for cliff, and this is where you will be at the top of a cliff face. As well as providing fabulous views there is great historical significance to this site. This is the site of the Battle of Nuʻuanu, where in 1795 King Kamehameha I won the struggle that finally united Oʻahu under his rule. The battle was fierce and it is said, the strong winds that you will feel there were created by many soldiers falling and jumping off the cliff face as they lost their life or refused to follow Kamehameha. It is free to enter the lookout though there is a $7 parking fee.

Hold on to your ‘wigs’ at the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout

Take a Day Tour Around the Island

Either rent a car or book a trip around the island of Oahu. This trip will show you some breathtaking coastal and mountain scenery. First stop the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout. As you near the bottom of the mountain turn right and follow the lush coastline of the North Shore – famed for its fabulous surf at beaches such as Sunset Beach. Stop to hike to the Waimea Falls at Waimea Bay. Call into the Polynesian Cultural Centre and discover about the indigenous Hawaiians and maybe stay for an evening luau here. Visit Halona Beach, famed for being the beach where the love scene between Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr, in the movie From Here to Eternity was filmed. Visit a pineapple farm and see the pineapples growing and being harvested.

Hike to Waimea Falls and see Halona Bay on a tour of the island

Book Your Tour Around Oahu here >>>

Polynesian Cultural Centre

Wander through 42 acres of tropical splendour and discover the culture from six different island nations – Fiji, Tonga, Aotearoa, Tahiti, Samoa and Hawaii. It is open from 12.30pm to 6pm however, you can book to dine at an authentic Polynesian luau that is topped off with a show of dancing from the islands.

Walk around Downtown Honolulu

Visit Iolani Palace, home of Hawaii’s last monarchs, the palace only dates back to 1882, which means it only served as a royal residence for nine years before the monarchy’s overthrow. Hawaii’s final monarch, Queen Liliʻuokalani was imprisoned in one of the palace’s upstairs bedroom for eight months in 1895 after loyalists tried to restore her to the throne. Today this stunningly beautiful building is a lovely place to learn about Hawaiian history. You may also recognise it as the headquarters of the TV show, Hawaii Five-0. Also see the King Kamamaha Statue and the Hawaii State Capital Building. He was the King who united the islands.

Iolani Palace

Shop till you drop at Ala Moana Centre

The Ala Moana Centre is Honolulu’s shopping capital. It is an open-air center featuring some 355 stores. From all the major American stores plus loads of boutiques to discover. There are also plenty of eateries from fast quick service restaurants to sit down restaurants. The centre is open from 10am to 8pm daily. And if there around 5pm, there is a Hula Show everyday on the centre stage at this time. Ala Moana Centre can be reached from some Waikiki hotels by walking, by bus or the Waikiki Trolley.

Visit Kualoa Ranch

A visit to Kualoa Ranch will show you where movies such as Jurassic Park and Jurassic World were filmed. I’m sure you will recognise the scenery. You can visit this independently or on an island tour.

Go on a Luau

There are many places to experience a luau – a traditional Hawaiian party or feast. The food is cooked the traditional way – buried in hot coals in the ground plus lots of local fruits and salads. There will be traditional hula dancing and a good time had by all. Maybe try a Blue Hawaii or Mai Tai – two drinks you must try.

Book Your Luau Ticket for the Ka Moana Luau Dinner and Shower at the Aloha Tower here >>>

Visit the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in the Punchbowl

Punchbowl is another volcanic cone just north of downtown Honolulu. Here you will find more than 60,000 military members who have been laid to rest. After paying your respects, head to the south rim of Punchbowl for fabulous views over Honolulu.

Days 11-14 Kauai – The Garden Isle (4 nights)

Na Pali Coastline – best seen from the air or ocean

Leave Oahu for 5 days on the island of Kauai – Flight time: Honolulu, Oahu to Lihue, Kauai – 25 minutes

Kauai is known as the Garden Isle because most of it is covered by tropical rainforest. It is the northern-most island in the Hawaiian chain and the oldest. After arriving, check into your accommodation and take a wonder around your resort and venture out to see what is around. During the next few days you could do the following while visiting the island of Kauai.

Where to Stay on Kauai (book for 4 nights)

Budget-friendly Hotel: Kauai Beach Resort is a good option. Get rates and availability for the Kauai Beach Resort here.
Mid-range to splurge option: the Kauai Marriott Resort is a great option to base yourself while on Kauai. Get rates and availability for the Kauai Marriott Resort here.

Things to See and Do on the Island of Kauai

Unfortunately you cannot do a circle island tour of Kauai as the roads don’t connect, but this gives you the perfect opportunity to visit the main areas. The weather of the day can determine where you will go. If it’s raining on the North Shore, start with the West/South Shore as it is usually sunny there. Keep this in mind when working out the best things to see and do on the island of Kauai.

NaPali Coast

The North Shore of Kauai is famous for its coastline. Visit the dramatic cliffs and pinnacles of its NaPali Coast – this is what brings many people to visit Kauai. You may have seen NaPali as a backdrop in many Hollywood films (South Pacific, Pirates of the Caribbean, Jurassic World) and TV shows (Gilligan’s Island, Fantasy Island, Magnum PI) made in Hawaii. The best way to see this part of Kauai is to take a helicopter ride or a boat trip as from the air or from the sea you get the best angles to see this magnificent area.

Book your flight over the NaPali Coast here >>>>

Waimea Canyon

See the 10-mile-long Waimea Canyon on the South Shore of Kauai. It is nicknamed the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’ and is well worth the windy road to get to the viewing platform. If the day is foggy, don’t bother driving to Waimea Canyon as you won’t be able to see much, if anything at all. One of the best ways to see the canyon is from the air.

Book your flight over Waimea Canyon here >>>

Other things to see and do on the island of Kauai include

• Hike the Nounou Trails traversing the Sleeping Giant mountain ridge.

• See the more than 100 years old Kilauea Lighthouse.

• Swim, snorkel, kayak or stand up paddle board at the beaches or relax by a pool. Maybe have a surfing lesson.

• Enjoy the food.

• Shop till you drop at the boutiques at Kukui’ula.

Days 15 – 21 – Maui – The Valley Isle (7 days)

An alternative to 7 days in Maui. Fly to Molokai for a few days, then to Lanai for a few days. From Lanai you can catch the ferry to Maui – the only ferry service between the islands. On this itinerary I have chosen not to stay on the islands of Molokai and Lanai, thus reducing the cost of the trip by eliminating a couple of airfares and accommodation – but to do day trips to them from Maui. But if you would prefer to stay on the islands I suggest flying from Kauai to Molokai then Lanai then catch the ferry (taking about 3 hours) to Maui.

Maui’s famous Black Sand Beach

Leave Kauai for a week on Maui. Flight time: Lihue, Kauai to Kahului, Maui – 49 minutes

Maui is known as ‘The Valley Isle’, and is the second largest Hawaiian island. It is know for the sacred lao Valley and world famous beaches. It’s capital city is Wailuku.

Where to Stay on Maui

Book for 7 nights. The most popular areas for accommodations are Kaanapali and Lahaina on the southwest side and Kihei in central/south. The sunniest and driest side of the island is Kaanapali.

Hostel: Tiki Beach Hostel at the Beach in Lahaina is a popular hostel. Get pricing and availability for a stay at the Tiki Beach Hostel here.
Mid-Range Hotel: The Kaanapoli Ocean Inn is a good mid-range choice. Get pricing and availability for the Kaanapoli Ocean Inn here.
Splurge Hotel: The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas are a good option for splurge accommodation on Maui. Get pricing and availability for a stay at the Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas here.

What to See and Do on Maui

Visit the Maui Ocean Center

At the Maui Ocean Center you can step over the largest living tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere. How cool! Experience exhibits and have personal encounters with marine life.

Book Your Day Entrance Ticket to the Maui Ocean Center here >>>

Drive the Scenic Road to Hana

The Road to Hana is one of the top attractions to do on the island of Maui. It is a 64-mile stretch of road that connects Kahului to Hana and is rated one of Hawaii’s best scenic drives. The Hana Highway takes you through tropical rainforests where you will see cascading waterfalls and along the coast taking in gorgeous coastal vistas.

Join a full-day tour of ‘The Road to Hana’ here >>>

Hike to See The Haleakala Crater

The Haleakala Crater, in the Haleakala National Park rises some 10,023 feet above the Pacific Ocean and attracts some 1.5 million visitors. Many climb to the summit to witness spectacular sunrises. It was termed ‘the sublimest spectacle’ by writer, Mark Twain.

Book Your Hike to the Summit of Haleakala Crater here >>>

Visit the Sacred Iao Valley State Park

The Sacred Iao Valley State Park in Maui is home to the famous Iao Needle, a natural rock formation. It holds historical importance as it was used to observe enemy movement in past battles when the islands had their own kings, and before King Kamehameha I united the islands. The 1,200 foot Iao Needle stands proudly in the Iao Valley State Park and is well worth a visit while on the island of Maui.

Other Things to See and Do on Maui

• Tour the Maui Historical Society
• Enjoy the water sports of Lahaina Harbour
• Hike to the Seven Sacred Pools
• Enjoy a Maui Luau
• Laze on the black sand beach, Honokalani
• Snorkel the stunning waters of Honolua Bay Marine Reserve
• Go on a whale watch tour

Day trip to Molokai

Molokai is known as The Friendly Isle. Molokai is the fifth largest island in the Hawaiian island archaepalego. It is also quite tiny being 38 miles long and 10 miles wide at its widest point. A large proportion of the population are of Native Hawaiian ancestry who have preserved their Native culture and way of living. So visiting Molokai can be like stepping back in time. As this island is one of the least developed with only a handful of souvenir shops and tour operators you will be kick back and relax on this island and enjoy the magnificent sea cliff faces with beautiful beaches below and sweeping Pacific Ocean vistas. Molokai is home to Hawaii’s longest continuous fringing reef, so don’t forget that snorkel gear and your reef-safe sunscreen.

Book Your Tour to Molokai here >>>

Day trip to Lanai

Lanai is the smallest inhabited island of Hawaii, but there is still plenty to see and do. There are a number of breathtaking hikes to do or perhaps you prefer to spend your time on one of the secluded Hawaiian beaches.

Book Your Tour of Lanai here >>>

Days 24-28 – Hawaii, The Big Island

The black volcanic rock in the Volcano National Park, Hawaii

Leaving the island of Maui, fly into either Kona or Hilo for 5 days on The Big Island. There are 2 airports on the island of Hawaii, one at Kona and the other Hilo so you can choose which you prefer to arrive at. I think the Kona side (west side is better) – but I’ll leave that up to you to decide.

Flight time, Kahului, Maui to Kona – 35 minutes and Kahului, Maui to Hilo – 40 minutes.

Here you will find some of Hawaii’s best beaches and the Volcano National Park. Hawaii is also known as the ‘golfing capital of Hawaii’. After arriving, head to your accommodation, unpack then get out and about.

Where to Stay on Hawaii (book for 5 nights)

A good area to stay on Hawaii is Kailua-Kona.

For a Budget to Mid-Range Hotel: Kona Seaside Hostel
Splurge Hotel: Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa

What to See and Do on Hawaii

The best way to see the big island is to hire a car for a Big Island road trip around the island, or you can take a tour.

Book your Hawaiian island tour here >>>

Visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

A visit to the island of Hawaii should include a visit to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to two active volcanoes – Mauna Loa and Kilauea. Check the park’s website first for current conditions and status of the trails as some or all can be closed due to volcanic activity. Some highlights in the park to visit if open – Kilauea Visitor Center, Chain of Craters, Crater Rim & Keanakāko’i Crater, Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) and Halema’uma’u Trail.

Plenty of Snorkelling

There are many places on the big island to snorkel. Some of the best snorkelling is at Honaunau Bay in the National Historic Park. Many like to snorkel, particularly at night with the Manta Rays in Keauhou Bay.

Book Your Night Snorkel with the Manta Rays here >>>

Play a Round of Golf or Two

Hawaii is known as the ‘golf capital’ of the Hawaiian islands with a number of world-class golf resorts. It doesn’t have the most courses, the most are found on Ohau, however, play a round or two at the Kohala Coast resorts of Waikola, Mauna Lani and Mauna Kea – all world-class resorts.

• Discover the Kanaka Maoli culture when you visit Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park (The City Of Refuge).
• Enjoy the black sands of Punaluʻu Beach where you may spot a few turtles.
• Enjoy a beer tasting at the Kona Brewery.
• Visit Ka Lae, the southernmost tip of both the island and the entire United States.
• Spend a day wondering around the main city on Hawaii, Hilo – shopping and sightseeing.

Days 27 or 28 – Oahu

With a couple of days left you could extend your time in Hawaii, or on any other island before heading back to Oahu for a 1, 2 or more days before leaving Hawaii to head home.

Flight time from Hawaii to Oahu – Hilo, Hawaii to Honolulu, Oahu – 55 minutes and Kona, Hawaii to Honolulu, Oahu – 47 minutes.

Are You Ready to Island Hop the Hawaiian Islands on this 1 month Hawaiian Island Itinerary?

If you have island hopped around Hawaii I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments following. Or if you planning your trip to Hawaii, fire away with the questions and I’ll do my best to answer them. 

Thanks for reading. Mahalo!

What is it about Italy that attracts so many people to it? Could it be the weather? The food? The wine? Maybe the people? Possibly it’s the vibrant old cities? Well, find out for yourself in my 1 month Italy Itinerary where I take you on a journey through Italy taking in all the ‘best bits’.

The first time I went to Italy, I was told to throw a coin from my right hand over my left shoulder into the Trevi Fountain in Rome. Doing this will ensure my return to Rome one day. Well it worked! I have returned to Rome on a number of occasions and each visit I throw another coin into the fountain. This 1 month Italy Itinerary includes a visit to Rome to throw a coin in the fountain as well as many other ‘must see’ places in Italy. Starting in the northern Italy town of Turin before heading south to Italy’s boot and ending on the island of Sicily. Spending one month in Italy will allow you to discover the different areas and cities of Italy. Without further ado, here is how to spend 4 weeks in Italy – let’s get travelling Italy.

I have written this itinerary starting in the north of Italy before heading south. You could easily reverse this itinerary and start in the south then travel your way up to the north. Whatever works best for you during your month in Italy. Don’t have one month holiday? Then you may be interested in my 2 week Italy itinerary. During that 14 days in Italy itinerary you will get to see the highlights of Italy.

Plan Your Trip to Italy

How to Get to Italy

Italy is found in Central Europe. It has borders with France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia. To get to Italy you have a number of options. Depending where you are coming from you can easily drive from a European country into Italy. You could also fly from anywhere and land at a major Italian airport such as in Rome, Milan, Turin or Florence. Or you could sail from another European country or country on the Mediterranean as there is an extensive ferry network in the Mediterranean.

How to Get Around Italy – The Best Transport Options in Italy

Beautiful Italy countryside flying by through a train window

Italy is very easy to get around. It has an extensive network of rail and bus routes. It also has a number of airports. Most who visit Italy will travel by bus, train or car. There are bus passes and train passes making it easy to get around Italy. If you hire a car you will have the flexibility to go where you want, when you want.

If you decide to rent a car you will want to know where will you park your car while travelling in Italy. Parking spots in Italy are colour coded. White spaces are free. Blue are metered and you must pay to park there. Yellow spaces are reserved for handicapped permits, official vehicles and taxis. Pink spaces are reserved for expectant mothers or mothers travelling with infants. Your accommodation may have free parking, but check when you book. If it does, you could then use the public train or bus network to get around.

Walking is also one of the best transport options in Italy. You will do plenty of walking in Italy as you discover new towns, museums and beautiful coastlines. Make sure you pack good walking shoes, either sandals for warm weather or enclosed shoes.

To travel Italy by Train – Check out RailEurope >>>here
To travel Italy by Bus – Check out Busbud >>>here

Best Time to Visit Italy

Italy can be visited any time throughout the year but most people who are staying a month in Italy are influenced by the weather and events they want to attend. So is there a best month to go to Italy? During the summer months in Italy (June, July, August) it can get very hot in Italy. Plus, this is the time many tourists visit Italy so accommodation and entrance fees to many things are more expensive. If you don’t mind the cold weather, even snow, you could visit Italy during the winter months (December, January, February). Some people do so they can ski, even work and ski in Italy for a season. But this is also the time when many tourist hotspots can close so if there is something in particular you want to see, check it will be open during your visit. Many choose to visit Italy in the Spring months (September, October, November) or Autumn months (March, April, May) when the weather is more pleasant and costs are not so expensive. Crowds are also less during these seasons. But really, anytime is a good time to visit Italy so the best month to visit Italy, is the best month for you.

Where to Stay in Italy – Your Accommodation Options

Italy has lots of accommodation available. It ranges from hostels to hotels to villas so whether you are travelling Italy solo or with a partner or, travelling Italy with kids, there is accommodation to suit your needs. I have included suggested accommodation options at each place visited in this Italian itinerary. To find the best place to stay I use booking websites or apps. HostelWorld to find a hostel bed, Booking.com to find a hotel room and Vrbo for a holiday let.

Packing for Your Italian Holiday

The time of year you are visiting Italy will determine the best things to pack for your Italian holiday. 

Documents. Passport, visa (if needed), money and credit cards, travel insurance details, pre-booked entrance and Hop-on Hop-off bus tickets, pre-booked accommodation details.
Clothes. Layers are best so you can put on if cold and take off if hot. You will need underwear, shorts and t-shirts, long pants or skirts, jacket. Ensure you have good walking shoes.
Electronics. Phone, camera, power adaptor plug and power bank
Toiletries.
Luggage. As you will be moving around every few days on this itinerary of Italy, ensure your luggage is easy to carry. 

How Much Money to Take to Italy for a 1 month holiday?

To work out your 1 month in Italy cost, I suggest you create a budget. List it out as follows:

Airfare or transport to Italy _____
Transport to travel around Italy _____
Accommodation 28 nights @ _____
Food _____ is this included? Is breakfast included in accommodation stay?
Extras _____ ie. entrance fees to museums and other sites
Travel Insurance ______

TIP: Purchase as much as possible before you arrive then you don’t have to worry about taking extra money.

And how will you take your money on your one month Italy itinerary? Take cash, credit and debit cards to give you the flexibility to pay for things.

1 Month in Italy Itinerary Map

28 Day Italy Itinerary

Your 4 weeks in Italy starts from the city of Turin and ends on the small island of Sicily off the boot of Italy. Starting in the north and ending in the south, or vice versa, will help you make the most of your 1 month in Italy. You are travelling in the one direction and not backtracking. I have made it 28 days to include a day or two of travel time from your home to and from Italy. So, let’s get into it.

Days 1-2 Turin

Arrive to start your 1 month in Italy in Turin either by car, bus, train or plane. By car, bus or train from one of the neighbouring European countries of France, Switzerland, Austria or even Slovenia. Or fly into Turin’s Turin-Caselle International Airport only 16km north of Turin. Budget the morning for your arrival and checking in to your accommodation about lunch time before exploring Turin for the afternoon.

Where to Stay in Turin (book for 2 nights)

Hostel: Tomato Backpackers
Hotel: Cristallo Hotel
For other accommodation in Turin, check out HostelWorld for a hostel bed and Booking.com for a hotel room.

What to See and Do in Turin

Turin city has a rich history and culture with plenty of churches, palaces, piazzas and museums to explore. Start with the Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) of Turin which was the residence of the Duke of Savoy and his family. It is about a 10 minute walk from the Piazza San Carlo, Turin’s main city square where you could enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee. 

Car enthusiasts may wish to visit the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile (National Automobile Museum) offering a journey through the history of automobiles. How apt as Turin is where the Fiat was created. Fiat is the acronym for Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino. 

Before leaving Turin visit the Most Holy Shroud Museum to see the Shroud of Turin. The Shroud of Turin is believed to be the linen cloth that once wrapped the body of the dead Jesus Christ. You won’t actually get to see the real Shroud of Turin, but there are replicas and displays explaining about the shroud.

Days 3-4 Milan

Distance Turin to Milan: 142km or 88 miles. Car – 1.5 hours, Train – just over an hour, Bus – 2.5 hours.

Where to stay in Milan (book for 3 nights)

Hostel: Ostello Bello is only .6km from the centre of the city so it is close to all the sites.
Budget Hotel: Art Hotel Navigilli
Mid-range Hotel: Hilton Milano.
For more options check out Hostelworld for hostels and Booking.com for hotels.

What to See and Do in Milan

Milan is the largest industrial city in Italy with many different industrial sectors. It is an attractive city for designers, artists, photographers and models. You will also be delighted by its many luxury boutiques in the historic centre. But not only that, you will be pleasantly surprised by the diversity of the neighbourhoods and the multitude of museums and sites to visit. These include the Grandiose Cathedral, the Sforza Castle and the Teatro alla Scala. 

Make time to appreciate the splendour and religious significance of the Last Supper mural. Painted by Leonard da Vinci, it is on display at the Santa Maria Delle Grazie. It depicts Christ and the apostles at the last supper before Christ’s crucifixion. Don’t forget to shop till you drop. You could pick up a bargain in one of the markets or fashion houses.

I always like to go on the hop-on hop-off buses in a new city. Milan has a hop-on hop-off bus with the circuit taking around 90 minutes. I enjoy this as you get commentary and tips about the city. Your ticket allows you to hop-on and hop-off at the sites you want to stay longer at. You can book a Milan Hop-on Hop-off Bus Trip through Get Your Guide here.

Day 5 – Lake Como Day Trip

Today, on this 1 month Italian itinerary is a day trip to Lake Como. One hour north of Milan is the southern end of Lake Como, the third largest Italian lake. It is located at the foot of the Alps providing some of the most picturesque scenery in Italy. While here, visit some of the large towns around the lake, Como, Lecco and Bellagio. Enjoy some fine dining and a glass of vino with spectacular views. Maybe take a cruise on the lake. You can book a private cruise here. Return to Milan for the evening.

Day Trip to Lake Como

Imagine sitting by the lake enjoying a meal and a glass of vino. Well you can!

Days 6-7 – Venice (via Verona)

Distance Milan to Venice: 270km or 168 miles. Car – 2.5 hours, Train – 3.25 hours, Bus – 3.5 hours.

Leaving Milan, head east towards Venice stopping in Verona. Verona is a medieval old town and is famous for the tiny ‘Romeo and Juliet’ balcony made famous in William Shakespeare’s play of the same name. You can find the balcony at 23 Cappello Street. Verona is more than just this balcony, it is on the Adige River and is home to ancient Roman landmarks. Some of them are well preserved such as the Ampitheatre.

Continue on to Venice, known as the ‘City of Canals’. Venice is probably one of the most picturesque cities in Italy. With its canals, striking architecture and beautiful bridges, Venice is one of the most popular destinations in Italy.

Where to Stay in Venice (book for 2 nights)

Many stay in the central district of Venice where you will be able to commute on foot around Venice very easily. However, if you are driving, there are no cars in Venice and you will need to leave your vehicle on the outskirts. Maybe you would prefer to stay with your car and commute into the city, which isn’t very far.

Hostel: Just 400m from the centre of Venice is Ostello S. Fosca – CPU Venice Hostel.
Hotel: Ai Mori is not too far away.
For more accommodation options in Venice check out HostelWorld for a hostel bed and Booking.com for more hotel options.

What to See and Do in Venice

Spend a full day in Venice walking around the central square, Piazza San Marco where you will find St Mark’s Basilica. Great views over Venice can be had when you to to the top of the bascilica. Visit one of the many glass blowing factories and watch glass being blown. Walk across the Rialto Bridge and other bridges before taking a ride on a gondola. Yeah, I know, very touristy, but if it is your first time in Venice, you will regret it if you don’t do it. Maybe sit in a cafe and enjoy a coffee and watch the world go by.

Take a Gondola Ride

Yes it is a very touristy thing to do, but you will regret it if you don’t.

Days 8, 9, 10 Cinque Terre

Dramatic Coastline of Cinque Terre

Distance Venice to Cinque Terre: 396km or 246 miles. Car – 4.5 hours, Train – 6 hours (depending on route)

Up early for the trip to Cinque Terre for the day. It is a must visit on any month long holiday in Italy. If travelling by train, trains leave from Florence’s train station about twice an hour and reach La Spezia train station about 2 hours after that. At La Spezia switch to the 5 Terre Express train, a fast regional train that runs every 15 minutes and connects all five villages of Cinque Terre and get off at the right stop for your accommodation. I have included 2 full days in Cinque Terre providing one day of sightseeing and one day for relaxing on the beach, or hiking one of the many trails and eating and drinking in the restaurants overlooking the ocean.

Cinque Terre is made up of five beautiful hillside or some say seaside villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggioreon. They make up a 2 mile / 3 km stretch of Italy’s northwest coast which is actually a national park. Referred to as the Italian Riviera due to its dramatic setting of Italian houses on the coast. You can either walk between the villages or catch the train as no cars are allowed. The five villages are connected by hiking trails if you want to explore this way, but it can take around 6 hours, depending on how fast you walk. But you will be treated to picturesque past houses and the Mediterranean.

Where to stay in Cinque Terre (book for 3 nights)

You could choose any one of the 5 main seaside villages.
Hostel/Hotel: Corniglia Dreams
B&B: Da Peppe
For more accommodation options in Cinque Terre check out HostelWorld for a hostel bed and Booking.com for a hotel room.

Day 11 – Florence via Pisa

Distance Cinque Terre to Pisa: 114km or 70 miles. Car – 1.5 hours, train – 2 hours, Bus – 2.5 hours.

Leave Cinque Terre and head to Pisa for the morning. Most go to Pisa to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa so you can see this plus a few other things in 2-3 hours. After the Leaning Tower of Pisa was constructed it immediately started to sink into the marshy ground on one side. Most of the time it is open to be climbed. And it is well worth the climb to the top where you can see across all of Pisa. Maybe have lunch before heading to Florence.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Tour the cathedral and get great views over Pisa when you climb the tower to the top.

Days 12, 13 – Florence and Tuscany

Distance Pisa to Milan: 90km or 55 miles. Car – 1 hour, train – 1 hour 20 mins, Bus – 1 hour

Leave Pisa after lunch on day 11 of this Italy itinerary. Continue south travelling through hills that frame small towns, estates and vineyards, olive groves that overlook and complete a panorama that is already unique and fascinating, loved by both Italians and foreigners – you’re in Tuscany. And you are now in the heart of Tuscany – Florence. There is plenty to see and do in Florence. 

The Duomo dominates the Florence skyline

Where to stay in Florence (book for 3 nights)

Florence has a variety of accommodation available for your 2 nights stay.
Hostel: Ostello Bello Firenze
Hotel: Hotel Kraft in the centre of Florence is close to all the major attractions.
For more accommodation options check out HostelWorld for a hostel bed and Booking.com for a hotel room.

What to See and Do in Florence

Florence is home to many monuments and museums and this is what you will spend a lot of time seeing and doing during your 2 full days in Florence. Starting with the Duomo of Florence, perhaps the most famous cathedral in the world and the jewel of the city. It dominates the city’s skyline. If the Duomo is the most important religious building in the city, Palazzo Vecchio is the most important administrative building. Pass through the Ponte Vecchio, an extremely famous and ancient bridge; it is the only bridge in Florence that survived the Second World War.

Also not to be missed is a visit to the Uffizi Gallery, a renowned art museum considered one of the most important Italian museums in the world. Inside the museum there is an immense collection of Renaissance art by artists such as Botticelli, Da Vinci, Titian and Raphael. If wanting to see Michelangelo’s Statue of David, (and who wouldn’t!), he is currently in the Accademia Gallery of Florence (Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze) in Florence. Seeing this state was once of my goals not to miss when I was in Florence. I think my friends and I stood there for at least 30 minutes in awe at the perfect form of this statue. Plus there were lots of giggles from some tourists, particularly families travelling Italy with kids, seeing a naked man statue.

Statue of David

Another beautiful statue by Michael Angelo in the city of Florence. Very popular so get your ticket so you don’t miss out.

Day 14 – Travel to Rome via Tuscany

Distance Florence to Rome: 272km or 170 miles. Car – 3.5 hours, Train – 2.5 hours, Bus – 4 hours.

Day 14 of this 1 month Italy itinerary, sees you head to Rome. If driving, take the Chianti Road which unites Florence and Siena. This ‘wine trail’ winds through, among others, Castellina in Chianti, Radda in Chianti, Gaiole in Chianti, Greve in Chianti, up to Siena among wine cellars, pecorino cheese producers and places where time seems to have stopped. A journey along the Chianti Road means not only enjoying the beauty of the landscape, it is a unique food and wine experience. If you are a lover of good wine and good living, this is one of the obligatory trips to do in Italy. Continuing further you arrive in Siena and from this magnificent medieval city you can reach Val d’Orcia, between the wine towns of Montalcino and Montepulciano, and go as far as Bagno Vignoni and its thermal baths.

If travelling by train or bus, don’t worry, you will pass through fabulous Tuscany countryside on your way to Rome. You can deviate a little from this itinerary by having a stop in Cortona. Cortona is an Italian town where Francis Mayes, the author of ‘Under a Tuscan Sun’ lives. If you loved her book, and the movie, you can discover this part of Italy with a stop at Cortona. If you are happy to not stop, you still won’t be disappointed as you will be travelling through beautiful scenery on your way to Rome. 

If you would like to read Under a Tuscan Sun, you can purchase a copy through this link to Amazon.

Days 15, 16, 17 – Rome

The Colosseum – just one of the wonders of Rome!

This Italian 1 month itinerary spends three full days sightseeing in Rome. One exploring the Vatican City and two exploring the top sights of Rome. 

READ MORE: How to Spend 3 Days in Rome

Where to Stay in Rome (book for 4 nights, 3 if staying in Tuscany for 1 night)

Rome has plenty of accommodation for your 4 nights stay.
Hostel: RomeHello Hostel is only 1km from the centre of Rome.
Hotel: Termini Terrace.
For more options visit HostelWorld for a bed in a hostel and for a hotel room, check out more options on Booking.com.

What to See and Do in Rome

After leaving Tuscany, here we are in Rome, the “Eternal City”. It is impossible to overlook the wonders of Rome. The capital is certainly one of the best places to visit in Italy. There is so much history just staring you in the face. Families travelling with kids to Rome studying ancient history will love it – seeing places in person helps book learning make sense.  Rome will offer you an unforgettable walk to the Colosseum, among the ruins of the Roman Forum, or among the Renaissance monuments of Piazza del Campidoglio. Rome is in fact full of ancient monuments, splendid squares and museums. To visit there are certainly the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona and the equally famous Piazza di Spagna. And don’t forget to throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain.

Venture into the Vatican City, the city within a city and visit the Vatican and its wonders. Stand in awe in the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Near the Vatican City you also find Castel Sant’Angelo. Finally you can proceed towards Trastevere, a district south of the Tiber river, very characteristic and traditional. I highly recommend that you stop and eat in one of the Roman trattorias in this area, but you don’t have to.

One thing I like to do when in a new city, is to get a ticket on the hop-on hop-off tourist bus. I like this bus as it takes you to all the sites of the city, provides a commentary which includes many interesting facts and allows you to hop-on and hop-off at the tourist spots you want to spend more time at. And Rome has a hop-on hop-off bus.

Rome Hop-on Hop-off Bus

The Rome Hop-on Hop-off bus takes you to all the best posts, provides commentary and lets you hop-on hop-off the bus and spend longer time at the sites you want to see.

Omnia City Card

With a 3-day Omnia City Card you will skip the line with free admission to a number of sites like the Colosseum, Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums. Plus take advantage of free unlimited public transport.

Days 18, 19, 20 Naples

Distance Rome to Naples: 223 km or 139 miles. Car – 2 hours 15 mins, Train – 1 hour 10 mins, Bus – 2.5 hours.

On day 18 of this 1 month itinerary of Italy, you leave Rome and head south along the coast to Naples. Naples is famous for its rich history, architecture, way of life and its gastronomy, such as the famous pizza.

Where to stay in Naples (book for 3 nights)

There is plenty of great accommodation in Naples.
Hostel: Naples Experience
Hotel: Bellini House B&B
For more accommodation options in Naples check out HostelWorld for hostels and Booking.com if after a hotel room.

What to See and Do in Naples

The city tour can start in Via Toledo, the longest shopping street in Naples. Here you can find numerous elegant boutiques. The Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, the cathedral, the catacombs, Castel Dell’Ovo, the Maschio Angioino, the underground excavations, Piazza del Plebiscito, Posillipo, Vomero and Mergellina: these are just some of the things to see in Naples, without forgetting the suggestive “Spaccanapoli”, the central street of the city and a tour of the Naples metro stations, among the most beautiful in Europe. One of the must-see works of art, among the most evocative in the world, is the Veiled Christ, a life-size sculpted marble statue that represents the dead Jesus Christ covered by a transparent funeral sheet made from the same block as the statue. It is a 5-minute walk from Piazza del Gesù Nuovo.

Naples is a great base to explore and do day trips to Pompeii, Sorrento and the Isle of Capri. However, they can also be done from the Amalfi Coast. So these days can be moved around if you want to make this itinerary more flexible.

For dinner, enjoy one of the most famous foodstuffs to come from Naples – the pizza! You will find many pizza parlours and restaurants all over the city. Choose one and enjoy. Or why not participate in a pizza making cooking class and learn to make it from scratch the traditional way.

Learn to Cook Pizza in Naples

Pizza has a long history where flatbreads with toppings were consumed by many ancient civilisations. But the modern birthplace of pizza is in Naples. So while in Naples take a cooking class and learn to make pizza from scratch the traditional way. 

Day 21 – Amalfi Coast via Pompeii

Leave Naples for the short trip to Pompeii and spend a full day here discovering the lost city of Pompeii. Pompeii is an archaeological site that shouldn’t be missed on your one month Italy itinerary. It was a thriving city in 79AD and then there was a catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius and the city was buried under metres of ash and pumice. Walk around the preserved area to see the excavated ruins of streets and houses. Nowadays Mount Vesuvius is mostly considered safe to climb and you can trek to the crater of the mountain if you are feeling energetic and have time. You will be treated to breathtaking views over the Bay of Naples area if you do the climb. After a day in Pompeii head to the Amalfi Coast to check into your accommodation for the evening.

Pompeii Archaeological Site

Step back in time in Pompeii and discover this lost city.

Days 22, 23, 24 – Amalfi Coast

Dramatic coastline along the Amalfi Coast

Distance Naples to Amalfi Coast: 60km or 37 miles. Car & Bus – just over an hour, Train – 1.5 hours (longer if stopping in Pompeii).

Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast (4 nights – 1 night after visiting Pompeii)

The Amalfi Coast has a variety of accommodation available.
Hostel: I based myself in Amalfi and stayed at Amalfi Centro. Very close to everything.
Hotel: Holidays Baia d’Amalfi
For other accommodation options on the Amalfi Coast check out pricing and availability of properties on HostelWorld for a hostel bed or Booking.com for hotel room.

What to See and Do on the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast, is a gorgeous stretch of coastal land in Southern Italy. Drive the Coast Road through charming cities with stunning views of the Amalfi Coast. Some places to visit while here are Valle delle Ferriere, the Amalfi Cathedral and Villa Cimbrone Gardens. Visit the towns of Sorrento and Positano set along dramatic cliffs overlooking sparkling blue waters.

Perhaps go on a day trip to the Isle of Capri in the Bay of Naples. Here enjoy villas dripping with bougainvillea, romantic restaurants and the natural phenomenon of the Blue Grotto. The grotto is a cavern where the water glows an electric blue from the sunlight bouncing on the cave walls! Truly spectacular. Looking for some nightlife? Then maybe have a night out on the Isle of Capri. Even the kids will enjoy sitting in the restaurants or bars with fabulous views over the water.

Perhaps just relax on one of the fabulous Amalfi Coast beaches and recharge your batteries after the last 3 weeks travelling Italy. Plenty of waters sports to enjoy if you want to keep active, particularly if you want to keep the kids entertained. Do enjoy the local food and drink, particularly Limoncello – an Italian lemon liqueur mainly produced here, in Southern Italy around the coast of Amalfi. It is traditionally served chilled as an after-dinner digestivo! Just great after a typical Italian meal.

Blue Grotto

Go on a boat trip to the Blue Grotto.

Set Sail for the Isle of Capri

Sail to the Isle of Capri and discover Capri’s breathtaking beauty.

Days 25, 26, 27, 28 – Boot of Italy & Sicily

Distance Amalfi to Reggio Calabria: 462 km or 287 miles. The time taken will depend on how many stops you make along this coastline. 

Leave the Amalfi Coast and head to the southern province of Puglia – the heel of Italy’s boot. This area is less visited than its northern counterparts but there is still plenty to see and do. There is clear blue sea, wonderful landscapes and don’t forget the beautiful local Italian food. Work your way down the coastline, stopping where you like to Reggio Calabria where you can visit the National Archaeological Museum of Reggio. And then you can say you have travelled Italy from top to boot!

From Reggio Calabria you can catch the ferry to Messina, Sicily, only a 30 minutes sail away.

Where to Stay in Palermo, Sicily

Plenty of places to stay while on the island of Sicily. Palermo, the capital is a great base.
Hostel: Bed and Breakfast D’Angelo
Hotel: B&B Casa Degli Artisti
For more accommodation options in Palermo check out HostelWorld for a hostel and Booking.com for a hotel room.

What to See and Do on Sicily

While on the small island of Sicily you can visit Catania and check out the grand baroque piazzas of the World Heritage-listed city centre. Maybe explore Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples and learn about this fascinating historic site with its temples to the gods. Then take a walk across the southern flank of Mt Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano. Make sure you have a day or two to discover Palermo the capital city of Sicily, and a great base while you are on the island of Sicily.

Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples

Discover the temples of this historic site.

Leaving Italy

Unfortunately, it is time to leave Italy after a fabulous four weeks in Italy. There are a number of options for leaving Italy in the southern part of the country. From Palermo you can sail to other cities in Italy or in the Mediterranean. You could fly out. Maybe catch the train or bus or drive back to Rome and fly out of the international airport. There are quite a few options to get you home.

Are you Ready for Your 1 Month Holiday in Italy?

This 1 month Italy itinerary takes you from the top to the bottom of Italy or vice versa. It takes in the ‘must see’ places in Italy, plus loads more. I hope you have found this month long itinerary for Italy helpful in the planning of your own Italian odyssey. If you have any questions about the planning of your trip to Italy, or want to let us know about your own travels through Italy, please leave them in the comments following.

Where to Next?

Italy Working Holiday Guide
How to Spend 3 Days in Rome
14 Day Italy Itinerary

White Cliffs are just one place you will visit on my 1 month UK and Ireland itinerary

You have one month holiday and you want to spend it holidaying in the United Kingdom and Ireland. I know just how you are feeling. Excited. Daunted. Maybe a little stressed at how many amazing places there are and how you will fit seeing them all in to one month? But it doesn’t have to be.

In this post I will show you the best places to visit and advise you on some of the ‘must’ things to do and see in the UK and Ireland. Plus, I provide an idea of how many days you will need to make the most of your time in each city and country. The itinerary is based on my own travels in the UK when I moved abroad to live and work in London on a working holiday for a few years.

I’ve divided the post into 2 sections. The first section is devoted to planning your UK itinerary which starts and finishes in London. While the second section is my suggested UK 4 week itinerary. So get ready to start planning your 1 Month UK and Ireland road trip itinerary.

FYI – The United Kingdom (UK) is made up of the countries of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Countries that make up Britain are England, Scotland and Wales. Then, on one island you have Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

This itinerary I have put together starts and finishes in London and visits 5 countries on 2 islands. England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. If you want to spend a month in Ireland, check out my 1 month Ireland itinerary taking in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Is one Month Long Enough in the UK?

If I had the choice I would spend a lot longer than one month travelling around the UK. But one month in the UK and Ireland is a very good start to begin discovering these amazing countries. Now before you read any further, I must warn you that this itinerary of the UK and ireland is jam-packed with things to see and do every day. Providing you with as many opportunities as possible to experience the UK and Ireland.

Planning Your 1 Month in UK and Ireland Trip

Who is this UK and Ireland 1 Month Itinerary for?

If you are wondering who can go on this UK and Ireland holiday, well, anyone! This UK 1 month itinerary incorporating Ireland as well, is very comprehensive and versatile and there is something in this itinerary for everyone. No matter if you are travelling solo to the UK and Ireland or with a friend or partner, as a backpacker to the UK or coming to the UK on a family holiday to explore the UK with kids, there is something for everyone in this itinerary.

Best Time to Visit the UK and Ireland

You can visit the UK and Ireland anytime however, they have very cold winters. So if you don’t want to be wearing 3 or 4 layers of clothes when outside and then boil inside from the central heating, I suggest visiting during the warmer months. However, winter in the UK and Ireland (December, January and February) can be magical with chestnuts being roasted by vendors on the streets and the Christmas lights are so bright and welcoming. And there are plenty of Christmas markets to enjoy and maybe get some skiing and snowboarding in – yes, there are ski fields in Scotland to enjoy.

Summer in the UK (June, July and August) see the most overseas tourists visiting and this is when accommodation is the most expensive. I lived in the UK on a UK Working Holiday Visa so I experienced all the seasons. If I was going to visit as a tourist I would suggest visiting during the shoulder seasons of mid-Spring or mid-Autumn because the weather is warmer, accommodation not as expensive and you can enjoy doing all the touristy things with less people. But any time is a magical time to visit the UK as there is plenty of things to see and do. 

How to Get to the UK

As the UK is an island surrounded by water, the best way to get to the UK is to fly. Major international airport hubs of Heathrow Airport and Gatwick Airport are outside London. Another option is to catch a ferry from Europe, Scandinavia or Ireland. But most international visitors to the UK arrive by plane. You can check out airfares to the UK here.

How to Get from Heathrow or Gatwick Airports into London

Both airports are well connected to London by train. The Gatwick Express train will take you into London while the Piccadilly Line of the London Underground (Tube) will take you into London. There are also buses and the very expensive option of catching a taxi.

How to Travel Around the UK and Ireland?

There are a number of options to travel around the UK and Ireland. They include by train, bus, ferry and car. This itinerary is best suited to travelling by car as it gives you the flexibility to go where you want, when you want, and deviate if you want to. There are a couple of ferry trips on this itinerary. If you don’t have a car, you can hire one in Britain. Check out DiscoverCars for pricing and availability. And don’t forget to bring an International Drivers Licence.

Where to Stay in the UK and Ireland

There are many styles of accommodation in the UK and Ireland to suit every budget and need. Accommodation comes in all sorts of sizes and shapes including hostels, hotels, B&Bs, camp sites, boats, apartments and even castles.

My biggest tip for booking your accommodation is to book early, particularly during the summer months as many places book out well in advance. Many young and solo travellers stay at hostels and there are a number of small hostel chains such as Wombats, Generator and of course YHA (Youth Hostels Association). They provide all the services you need in a hostel from a bed, bathroom, kitchens to cook in, communal areas, cafes, bars to free wifi.

I have listed some hostel contact details under each city but for more options check out HostelWorld to compare and book a hostel bed. Other affordable accommodation can be found through Booking.com.. This is the place I book all my accommodation because of the range available and the ease of the process.

LWPT Tip: Before I begin my suggested itinerary I just want to recommend you purchase travel insurance. I know travel insurance is an extra cost on any holiday but it is well worth it. Things can happen when you least expect them. You don’t want to be stuck with thousands of dollars in medical bills or without any luggage. I recommend World Nomads and SafetyWing for travel insurance but if you don’t purchase a policy through either of them, please ensure you purchase travel insurance from somewhere else. You never know what might happen and you need to be covered.

How much will One Month in the UK and Ireland cost?

To work out how much a trip to the UK and Ireland will cost you, create a spreadsheet as follows. 

TIP: Pay as much as possible in advance so you know how much spending money you have to take.

Airfare to the UK and Ireland $_____
Accommodation (per night) $_____ x 30 = $_______
Transport around the UK and Ireland (Car rental, ferry) – $_______
Day tours $_______
Meals x 3 per day $_______
Entrance Fees $_____
Extras (souvenirs, etc) $______

What to Pack for a Trip to the UK and Ireland

What to pack for your trip to the UK and Ireland will depend on the season you are visiting. It is always best to dress in layers so you can take them off if hot, and put them on when cold. I would suggest if you are visiting at the height of winter to ensure you have thermal underwear and a good waterproof jacket. You will be doing plenty of walking on this driving tour of the UK and Ireland so definitely invest in a good pair of walking shoes.

1 Month UK and Ireland Highlights

This 1 month UK and Ireland itinerary starts and finishes in London

The Amazing Experiences included in my suggested itinerary include:

• Discover London and see places on the Monopoly Board on a Hop-on Hop-off London Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Visit Stonehenge, Bath, Cardiff, Liverpool, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dublin and Belfast
• See crystal being made in Waterford
• Visit Blarney Castle and kiss its Blarney Stone
• See the birthplace of Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon
• Get your Harry Potter on in Oxford and Edinburgh
• See Hadrians Wall
• Experience the Cliffs of Moher, the White Cliffs of Dover and the Giant’s Causeway
• Visit museums including the National Wallace Museum in Stirling
• Taste whisky in Scotland and Guinness in Ireland

Days 1-5 – London

No trip to Great Britain should miss the capital of England, London. And this is where this 1 month UK and Ireland itinerary starts and ends. Use day 1 to get use to UK time and start exploring this wonderful city. You will have it in your mind what you want to see and do in London. I usually start my visit to a new big city with a hop-on hop-off bus sightseeing tour. One of these tours takes me to all the places to see and provides a commentary of each place. Then I can decide which places I want to go back and visit longer.

The bus will swing by must-see attractions like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, St Paul’s Cathedral, Piccadilly Circus, Parliament Square, Big Ben, Harrods in Knightsbridge, Natural History Museum, V&A Museum, Hyde Park, Marble Arch, Kings Cross, Tower Bridge, Oxford Street shops, Madame Tussauds, the Tower of London, London Eye, The Shard and so much more. You can read my post on how to spend one day on London’s hop on hop off bus here. You can book your hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour of London here.

Day 1 in London – get use to UK time and get your bearings on a hop-on hop-off bus around London. Followed by an evening in Covent Garden to get a meal and drink.

Your second day in London is all about Westminster and Buckingham Palace. Catch the tube or bus to Westminster and discover Westminster Abbey, the Houses of parliament with Big Ben, 10 Downing Street and nearby is Buckingham Palace and The Mall. Then take a walk through Hyde Park.

Day 3 discover the history of London with a visit to the Tower of London. Take a walk across Tower Bridge to the Southbank Area.

On your fourth day in London before you head through England get some shopping in on Bond or Oxford Streets or at Harrods in Knightsbridge.

Day 5 is a day trip to Windsor to visit Windsor Castle. This is the birthplace of Queen Victoria and you can see a lot of memorabilia from her childhood and reign here. Walk the cobbled streets and pick up a royal trinket or two. You can get to Windsor on a tour or catch the train. It is a very pleasant train ride and quite spectacular when Windsor Castle appears.

Read my 5 day London itinerary here for all the best things to see and do in London.

How to Get Around London

London is synonymous with black cabs, red double decker buses and the Tube. Get yourself a day ticket and this public transport to visit all the places you want to see in London.

Where to Stay in London

As you will be spending 5 nights here in London you may wish to choose accommodation with cooking facilities. This way you could have breakfast each morning. Make lunch to take with you for the day and cook your dinner if you don’t want to go out each night. Cooking your own meals will definitely help you save heaps of money.

If hostels are your choice of accommodation style then you are in luck because London has around 150 of them. I lived in London for 4 years and stayed in many hostels, hotels and B&Bs. Here are some hostels I have stayed in in London and can recommend.

YHA Central London
Astor Hyde Park
Generator London
The Walrus Bar and Hostel

If you are wanting a budget hotel then consider:

Earls Court Garden Hotel which is in Earls Court and is easy to reach from the airport and has lots of transport into central London.
Oxford Hotel
Lord Jim – I have stayed in this one and it was enjoyable.
Mayflower Hotel and Apartments

For a bit of luxury consider The Savoy or The Ritz. For more London accommodation options visit Booking.com.

You could consider house sitting for your 5 days in London. Check out Trusted Housesitters for options.

Day 6 – Canterbury, Hastings and Brighton

Take a walk along Brighton Pier while in Brighton

Distance London to Brighton via Canterbury and Hastings – about a couple of hundred miles which will be around 3 hours of driving.

Today, pick up your car and hit the road. Take the M2 and onto the A2 towards the East Coast. First stop is the town of Canterbury which is home to Canterbury Cathedral, founded 597AD. This beautiful cathedral is the headquarters of the Church of England. Take a walk around the ancient walls, originally built by the Romans that encircle the city centre. See beautiful old timber-framed houses built on cobbled streets. Step back in time on discover this beautiful old town. Maybe enjoy a meal before jumping in the car for our next stop on this British road trip.

Next stop, White Cliffs of Dover which is the English coastline facing the Strait of Dover and France. These cliffs are composed of soft white limestone which give them their white chalk appearance. The cliffs are about 350 feet high and you can walk along the cliff face if you are feeling energetic and the weather is good. You will be treated to great views if you do! Start your visit at the Dover Visitor Centre where you can park and have access to a cafe, toilets and the walking tracks. Parking costs 5 pound per day or free for National Trust members. Did you take out membership?

From Dover head to Hastings. This town is known for the 1066 Battle of Hastings which was fought on a field where the Battle Abbey now stands. If you love history, you will love this place and you will definitely want to visit the ruins of Hastings Castle which was once the home of William the Conqueror. There are also a couple of museums nearby, Hastings Fishermen’s Museum and Shipwreck Museum which document the maritime history of the area. 

Onto Brighton. Check into your accommodation for 2 nights as tomorrow you will have a full day discovering Brighton.

Where to Stay in Brighton – book for 2 nights.

Hostel: YHA Brighton, Selina Brighton Backpackers
Budget-Mid Range: Royal Albion Hotel, The Queensberry Hotel

Day 7 – Brighton

Brighton is a seaside resort, well a British version of a seaside resort on the East Sussex coast of England. Realistically it is only 47 miles south of London and you could visit it doing a day trip from London. I have done it a few times by train from London but if you do, you won’t have the flexibility to visit the White Cliffs of Dover and Hastings.

I love visiting Brighton, particularly walking along the pier and stopping in the arcade to play a couple of games and to buy some Brighton rock – a hard lolly to suck. If the weather is warm, buy an ice cream and sit on the pebbly beach ‘ouch’, and enjoy the water. Or perhaps some fish and chips might be on the cards! As Brighton is rather compact it is easy to walk around. Many of the streets are cobbled so wear good walking shoes to see the old buildings and visit the Royal Pavilion. Enjoy a drink in one of the pubs before heading back to your accommodation for the night.

Day 8 – Stonehenge to Winchester to Salisbury to Bath

Distance Brighton to Stonehenge is 97miles or about 2 hours drive passing by Portsmouth and Southampton.

After breakfast, hop in the car and head west through the beautiful English countryside to Wiltshire and Stonehenge. Stop by Winchester and visit the Winchester Cathedral to see King Arthur’s Round Table. Then to Salisbury, home of the Salisbury Cathedral for a quick look around and maybe some morning tea. 

Then to Stonehenge. Stonehenge is an iconic symbol of Britain with a history spanning some 4,500 years with different meanings to people. After parking in the car park visit the information centre to learn about Stonehenge before walking under the main road to the field where the sacred stone circle making up Stonehenge reside. You will need an entrance ticket to Stonehenge which you can purchase here. Budget to spend a couple of hours here, then onto the town of Bath in the county of Somerset for the evening.

READ MORE: How to Visit Stonehenge.

Where to Stay in Bath – book for 2 nights

Hostel: YHA Bath Hostel, Bath Backpackers
Hotel: St Christophers Inn, The Z Hotel Bath

Day 9 – Bath

Me enjoying the baths in Bath

You might be itching to see the Roman baths, but start your day on the Bath Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus which will take you to all the places of note. Before deciding which ones you wish to spend more time at. Then spend the rest of the day discovering the Roman era natural hot spring water baths, built in 60AD that are still operating today. Then see Bath’s honey-coloured Georgian architecture with the iconic Royal Crescent and the majestic Circus. End the day with a good meal in one of Bath’s pubs. Then maybe have a nightcap before heading back to your accommodation.

Day 10 – To Cardiff

Distance Bath to Cardiff – 1 hour 5 mins, 54 miles afternoon Cardiff

After breakfast, jump in your car, cross the massive Severn Bridge into Wales, heading for the capital of Cardiff. On arriving in Cardiff, find a place to park and get to know this beautiful and compact city. Maybe take Cardiff’s Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus. The head back to visit the medieval Cardiff Castle located in the city centre before enjoying a meal along the ultramodern Cardiff Bay Waterfront. Why not also visit the Millennium Stadium, known as Principality Stadium since 2016 and is home of Welsh rugby.

Where to Stay in Cardiff for the night.

There are a number of hostels close to the city centre – Bunkhouse (0.3km) and The Riverhouse (0.7km) for those of you looking for a bed in a dorm room. For a budget hotel try the Ibis Budget Hotel Cardiff City or the Holiday Inn. Happy to splurge for your time in Cardiff check into The Parkgate Hotel or the St David’s Cardiff an IHG Hotel.

Day 11 – To Liverpool

Get a photo with the Fab Four

Distance Cardiff to Liverpool 3.5 hours, 196 miles along the M6.

Leave Wales and head back into England to arrive in Liverpool by lunch time and spend the rest of the day getting to know this city. Famous for the Beatles you can visit The Beatles Story and Museum while taking the Liverpool and Beatles Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour. Perhaps include a visit to the world-famous ‘Cavern Club’ on Mathew Street. Then take walk around the Albert Docks along the Mersey river and discover historic architecture and local Liverpudlian lifestyle. Maybe even get a photo with the fab four statue! Enjoy an evening in one of the pubs and discover a ‘Scouse stew’ with a pint before heading to your accommodation for the night. Or take the overnight ferry to Dublin rather than waiting for tomorrow. However, I think you see more on the day sailing. Leaving one harbour and coastline behind and arriving to a new coastline and harbour is quite spectacular.

Where to Stay in Liverpool for the night if not doing the overnight ferry but doing it during the day tomorrow. Taking the overnight ferry will give you more time in Dublin.

Hostel: YHA Liverpool Albert Docks, Liverpool Central YHA
Budget-mid-range Hotel: Easy Hotel Liverpool, Tune Hotel Liverpool

Day 12 – Ferry to Dublin

Ferry to Dublin takes between 6.5-7.5 hours or you could fly and rent a car when you get to Dublin.

Today cruise across the Irish sea to Dublin. On arrival check into your accommodation and head out to Temple Bar for the evening. This area is full of restaurants and bars offering good Irish ‘craic’ (fun). Maybe an Irish Stew and a Pint of Guinness is on the cards!

Where to Stay in Dublin – book for 2 nights

There are plenty of hostels in Dublin for your 2 night stay.

Jacobs Inn Hostel, only 600m from the city centre.
The Apache Hostel in the Temple Bar area.
Generator Dublin, about 1.2km from the city centre and is great value if you measure it in terms of star rating, facilities and reviews.
Backpackers D1Hostel, only 450m from city centre.
The Times Hostel, College Street, only 500m from city centre.
Backpackers Citi Hostel, Dublin City Centre, 450m from centre.

If it’s a budget hotel room you are after then check out:

RIU Plaza The Gresham, Dublin is a 4 star hotel only 250m from the city centre.
Amberley House by the KeyCollections, 400m from centre, and includes breakfast.
Arcadia House B&B

Day 13 – Dublin

Dublin is a compact city and to get to know it I suggest you get onto the Dublin hop-on hop-off bus to discover what this magnificent medieval city has to offer. Then you can head back to the places you want to spend more time. Such as:

– Dublin Castle
– Book your Guinness Storehouse ticket to discover how Guinness is made and to have a sample in the bar on the top floor with fabulous views over Dublin.
– St Stephen’s Green, the city’s most famous park.
– National Museum of Ireland
– Book of Kells at Trinity College
– Irish Whisky Museum
– Do some shopping along Grafton Street, a pedestrian only shopping street filled with many street-level stores and coffee shops.

End your day in Dublin in another traditional Irish pub for another Irish meal, Guinness with Irish music and dancing.

Day 14 – to Waterford, Blarney Castle to kiss the Blarney Stone

Today leave Dublin and head south to Ireland’s ancient east coast and to its oldest city, Waterford. This city was founded by Vikings in 914 and has a fascinating history. Make time to visit the Waterford Crystal Factory to watch professional crystal crafters at work and maybe buy some crystal to take home.

After some lunch, continue to Blarney Castle housing the famous Blarney Stone. The stone is legendary for being the Stone of Eloquence and if you kiss it, you will never again be lost for words. Be warned, to kiss the stone you will be hung upside down by a couple of friendly guy! Then onto Killarney for the night.

Where to stay in Killarney – book for 2 nights

Hostel: The Black Sheep Hostel, The Railway Hostel
Budget-Mid Range Hotels: Killarney Royal Hotel, Killarney Country House

Day 15 – Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a popular scenic circular driving tourist route skirting the edges of the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, south-western Ireland. It is only 111 miles long and can take a couple of hours if you don’t stop. But you must stop, and you will as you drive through picture-postcard quaint and charming towns. Plus you will see plenty of Ireland’s rugged coastline with breathtaking coastal views and emerald-green paddocks. Definitely have your camera full charged for your visit today. Also, stop in the little villages and enjoy culinary treats from cute cafes, restaurants, bars and pubs in the area.

You can choose to stay in one of the small towns along the way or back in Killarney which will be easy and closer for our drive tomorrow.

Day 16 – Killarney to Adare to Limerick to Galway

The Cliffs of Moher – a must on any Irish holiday

Today is another day for dramatic Irish scenery as you make your way up the ‘Wild Atlantic Way’. Take a little time to stop in Adare and Limerick. Adare is renowned as Ireland’s prettiest village, with its string of beautiful 19th-century thatch-roofed white-walled cottages. Another good photo shot here! Then journey through the county of Limerick, maybe even stop in the town of Limerick before making your way to the famous Cliffs of Moher. These staggeringly beautiful, entirely vertical cliffs rise to a height of 214m. Their edge abruptly falls away into a ceaselessly churning Atlantic. The views on a clear day are absolutely breath-taking. The wind can be extremely strong and blustery, but well worth the visit.

Continue to Galway for the evening. Here you will discover remnants of the medieval town walls as you walk around the shops selling musical instruments, books and handcrafted Claddagh rings – have you bought one of these yet? Enjoy a night out for dinner in one of the local pubs.

Where to Stay in Galway for the night

Hostel: Galway City Hostel, Kinlay Hostel
Budget-mid-range hotel: Galway Arms Inn, The Lane Boutique Hotel

Day 17 – To Enniskillen, Londonerry & Belfast, Northern Ireland

Today leave the republic of Ireland and drive into Northern Ireland, part of the United Kingdom. It is quite a long drive but you will see plenty. Take the N83 and drive through beautiful green open fields with many towns along the way. This area is a key filming location for the hit television show Game of Thrones. If you love the show, you will know where you are! One of the towns you might drive through is Enniskillen. Known for the Remembrance Day bombing (also known as the Enniskillen bombing or Poppy Day massacre) which took place on 8 November 1987. Twelve people were killed and 63 injured from the bombing.

Leave Enniskillen and onto Ireland’s second largest city, Derry (Londonderry). There is plenty of history to discover here within the 17th-century city walls. Learn about the Siege of Derry, the Battle of the Bogside and Bloody Sunday – sung about in U2s song ‘Sunday Bloody Sunday’. With all this history enjoy some frivolity in one of the vibrant pubs.

Take the A37 to your next stop of the well-known phenomenon of the Giant’s Causeway. This is about an hour or so away but is one of natures most beautiful formations. Hear the stories as you walk around the some 40,000 interlocking basalt columns.

Then head south driving some 60 or so miles to the capital Belfast for the evening.

Where to Stay in Belfast – book for 2 nights

Hostel: Lagan Backpackers, Belfast International Youth Hostel
Budget-Mid Range Hotels: Holiday Inn Belfast, Hilton Belfast

Day 18 – Belfast

Belfast is an interesting place with its nod to Titanic and its healing with its Peace Wall

Wake up in Belfast and get ready for a full day of things to do.

• Get a ticket and jump on the Hop-on Hop-off bus of Belfast, taking you to all the best places to see.
• Discover where RMS Titanic was built at the renovated dockyards’ Titanic Quarter. Check out the aluminium-clad museum, Titanic Belfast Experience, to discover more about this ship that struck an iceberg and sunk in 1912.
• Delve into Belfast’s history visiting Catholic and Protestant estates and the Belfast Peace Wall.
• Finish your day in the Cathedral Quarter for a meal and a pint of Irish stout.

Day 19 – Ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan in Scotland and drive to Glasgow

Say goodbye to Northern Ireland and hello to Scotland today by hopping on the ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan. It’s only a couple of hours away, then continue driving to Glasgow. After some lunch, get on the hop-on hop-off bus to discover Glasgow. After a good Scottish meal in a pub head to your accommodation.

Where to Stay in Glasgow – book for 2 nights

Hostel: Euro Hostel Glasgow, Glasgow Youth Hostel
Budget-Mid Range Hotels: Holiday Inn Glasgow Central, Motel One Glasgow

Day 20 – Glasgow

Glasgow is such an underrated city. Known for being bleak with plenty of housing commission dwellers Glasgow has come into its own with many vibrant pubs and coffee shops to enjoy. Highlights to see in Glasgow include:

• Glasgow Cathedral
• Riverside Museum
• St Vincent Place
• Glasgow University to name a few.

Day 21 – Glasgow to Stirling and Scottish Highlands

Today sees you hit the 3 week mark in my 1 month UK and Ireland itinerary – isn’t it going too fast! But we are now headed to one of my favourite places on earth – the Scottish Highlands. The first time I visited the Scottish Highlands I stood in the Cairngorm Mountains and thought, ‘I could easily move abroad and live here’. Maybe its because my surname is McCullum that I feel this way! But I could easily move to Scotland, rent or buy a stone farmhouse and live in the Scottish Highlands. In the meantime……

After breakfast, head to Stirling, only half an hour or so drive away and one of the must visit places in the Scottish Highlands. Stirling is one of my favourite Scottish towns, it’s got a beautifully preserved Old Town with many historic buildings. And it has cobbled streets so ensure you have good flat walking shoes so you can walk around the ramparts of Stirling Castle. A must see is a visit to the famous Wallace Monument standing on the summit of Abbey Craig. This honours the legendary Braveheart freedom fighter, William Wallace. You know, the one made famous in that movie with Mel Gibson as William Wallace.

Can I suggest while in Stirling, introduce yourself to whisky. There are many whisky distilleries in Scotland all making fine single malt whisky and Stirling Distillery is just one of them. And lucky for you, in the shadow of Stirling Castle, you will find Stirling Distillery. Discover how whisky is made and maybe have a taste or two!

I hope you are under the limit to drive up through the picturesque highlands to Inverness, which is a good 3 hours of driving away. Lucky there are a number of stops including Glencoe, one of Scotlands ski towns to stop at. But keep going to Fort William on the shores of Loch Linne. Often talked about in the ‘Outlander’ Netflix series, roam around Fort William and see what you recognise. Fort William is known as the gateway to Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak and if you are visiting during the winter months you may wish to include some skiing or snowboarding into your stay here on the Nevis Range Mountain Resort. If not, visit the West Highland Museum focusing on life in the area and keep your whisky tasting pallet up with a trip to the Ben Nevis Distillery. Spend the night here in Fort William.

If you are a working holiday in the UK and you love skiing and snowboarding, why not get a job in the Scottish ski fields. Scotland has a good snow season from November to March and need staff to ensure the season goes off without a hitch. If you would like to work and ski Scotland, read how to do it here.

Where to stay in Fort William

Hostel: Glen Nevis Youth Hostel, Fort William Backpackers
Budget-Mid Range Hotel: Muthu Fort William Hotel, Nevis Bank Inn

Day 22 – to Loch Ness, Inverness and Colluden Battlefield

Urquhart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness – Did you see Nessie?

After breakfast head north and deeper into the dramatic Scottish Highlands to Loch Ness. You’ve got a number of options here to spot ‘Nessie’, the Loch Ness Monster. You can walk to the 1000 year old Urquhart Castle on the banks of the loch to explore it and to look for Nessie. Or you could take a Loch Ness Cruise in search of Nessie.

After a wonderful morning head to Inverness via Colluden Battlefield which is only 8 miles or so outside of Inverness. The Colluden Battlefield is the site of last battle of the Jacobite Rising – where the Scots were fighting the English for their freedom. Alas they lost with a great loss of life. You may have seen this in the Outlander series. Here, at the Colluden Battlefield Visitor Centre you discover all about this battle and what led up to it. The places almost comes alive through wonderful interactive exhibitions and artefacts. Then walk outside into the field and along the battle lines of the clans. Then onto Inverness for the evening.

Where to Stay in Inverness

Hostel: Inverness Youth Hostel, Hillview House Hotel Inverness
Budget-Mid Range Hotel: Colluden House Hotel, The Royal Highland Hotel

Day 23 – Inverness to Edinburgh

Many use Inverness as a base to explore Loch Ness and Colluden. However, Inverness is known as the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands and has a number of places to see. Start with the Old Town where you will find Inverness Cathedral and the Old High Church. This will take up your morning, then you hop in the car and head to Edinburgh via the A9 covering 200 or so miles during the 3 hour drive.

On the way to Edinburgh you could stop at Aviemore, often referred to as Aussiemore due to the number of Australians who get jobs here during the Scottish ski season. Aviemore is at the base of the Cairngorm Mountains which have a great ski season plus plenty of hikes in the warmer months. There are other towns to stop in along the way including Perth before arriving in Edinburgh.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh – book for 2 nights

Hostel: Castle Rock Hostel, Kick Ass Greyfriars Hostel
Budget-Mid Range Hotel: The Scotsman Hotel, Novotel Edinburgh Centre

Day 24 – Edinburgh

Wake up in Edinburgh and get your walking shoes on because you will be doing a lot of walking today. But first, ride aboard the Edinburgh hop-on hop-off bus. it will take you to all the places in Edinburgh of note and interest. Then head to Edinburgh Castle. You can’t miss it sitting high on a crag overlooking the city. Take a tour and see where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to her son James and also the spikes where William Wallace’s head was displayed after his death. Then walk the Royal Mile and visit a few shops on the way down to Holyrood Palace. Holyrood Palace is the home of the British monarch when in Edinburgh. These things will mostly take you all day, depending on your interest. Other things to do in Scotland include:

• Take a walking tour of the city, such as a Potter-themed tour and see if some parts look strangely familiar to those penned in the first Harry Potter novel.
• See St Giles Cathedral.
• Hike up Arthur’s Seat for great views of the city.
• Visit Princes Street Gardens.
• Explore the Museum of Scotland or the National and Portrait Galleries.
• Enjoy more whisky at the Scotch Whisky Experience.
• Shop along George Street.

Finish your day in one of the quirky bars, cosy traditional pubs or craft beer house in the Old Town for a meal – with or without haggis – and a dram of whiskey before retiring to your accommodation.

Day 25 – Edinburgh to York

Today you must say goodbye to Scotland and make your way back into the north of England. I suggest taking the A1 which hugs the coastline for some great scenery and cute towns. A couple of hours drive will see you at the first stop of Alnwick Castle in Alnwick which is the residence of The 12th Duke of Northumberland. It was built following the Norman conquest in 1096 but you will most likely recognise it as being the place a number of movies and TV shows are filmed. Including Downton Abbey, Black Adder and two Harry Potter films (The Philosopher’s Stone and The Chamber of Secrets).

Continue into Yorkshire, and to the county’s capital, York. This is a charming walled city with winding cobbled streets that is overlooked by the largest gothic cathedral in northern Europe – York Minster. As you will be arriving late in the day check into your accommodation before heading out for dinner.

Where to Stay in York – book for 2 nights

Hostel: Safestay York, YHA York
Budget-Mid Range Hotel: Ibis York Centre, Doubletree by Hilton

Day 26 – York

Spend the whole day today exploring York. York is a walled city in northeast England that was founded by the ancient Romans. Its huge 13th-century Gothic cathedral, York Minster, has medieval stained glass and two functioning bell towers. The City Walls form a walkway on both sides of the River Ouse. The Monk Bar gate houses an exhibition tracing the life of 15th-century Plantagenet King Richard III. The best things to see and do in York include:

• Go on the York Hop-on Hop-off sightseeing bus tour
• Walk the walls around York
• Visit York Minster to discover its centuries of history and get the best views over the city
• See York Castle Museum
• Discover the viking history at the JORVIK Viking Centre

Day 27 – To Nottingham

Me and Robin Hood Statue in Nottingham

Distance from York to Nottingham is a leisurely 88 miles which will take about 1.5 hours along the M1. You will be there by mid-morning and able to enjoy Nottingham for the rest of the day. This area is known for being where Robin Hood spent a lot of time robbing the rich and giving to those less fortunate. You could visit Sherwood Forest not to far away or the hilltop Nottingham Castle Museum and Art Gallery. However, Nottingham is also known for once being the lace capital of the world. You can discover all about lace, and maybe buy some, in the Lace Market area.

Where to stay in Nottingham

Hostels: Igloo Hybrid, Midtown Lodge
Budget-Mid Range Hotels: Park Plaza Nottingham, Doubletree by Hilton

Day 28 – To Stratford-upon-Avon

From Nottingham head to Stratford-upon-Avon, home of Shakespeare – William Shakespeare that is. It is only 83 miles away so will take around 1.5 hours to reach. Stratford-upon-Avon is a medieval market town which William Shakespeare lived in the 16th century. Shakespeare is best known for his sonnets and plays such as ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and ‘Hamlet’. Things to see and do while here include:

• Visit Swan Theatre on the banks of the River Avo
• See Anne Hathaways Cottage and Gardens (Shakespeare’s wife)
• Walk along the river and through the town with its shopping areas and quirky cafes.
• Maybe take a canal boat tour.

After most of the day in Stratford-upon-Avon jump in the car and head to Blenheim Palace in the town of Woodstock. Blenheim Palace is the seat of the Dukes of Marlborough and is the only country house in England to hold the title of palace. Sir Winston Churchill, one of the UK most prominent Prime Ministers was born here. Take a walk through the palace and the grounds. It is then only a 20 minute drive to city of Oxford – the next stop on this itinerary of the UK and Ireland.

Where to Stay in Oxford – book for 2 nights

Hostel: Central Backpackers
Budget-Mid Range Hotels: Holiday Inn Oxford, Leonardo Royal Hotel

Day 29 – Oxford

After breakfast take the Oxford Hop-on Hop-off sightseeing bus to see all the sights of the city before going back to some of the notable spots. If you are a Harry Potter lover, get your fix with a walking tour around the incredible Oxford Colleges and see where some of the scenes of the movies were made. End your day in one of the vibrant pubs enjoying a good English feed and a pint, possibly with a bunch of students!

Day 30 – Drive to London, return car and leave

Leave Oxford behind for the journey back to London. Return your rental car and leave the UK and Ireland for home.

And So Ends this 1 Month UK and Ireland itinerary

All good things must come to end, including this holiday of a lifetime in the UK and Ireland. On this last day, depending on where you are going to next, you possibly could have extra time in London or head to Heathrow Airport for your journey home. I hope you have had the best time in the UK and Ireland. This itinerary was designed to see the best ‘bits’ but I do hope it is only the first of many visits to the UK and Ireland for you. I’d love to hear your thoughts on my 1 month itinerary for the UK and Ireland in the comments following.

Don’t have 1 month to spend in the UK?

If you don’t have a month spend in the UK what about 3 weeks in the UK, well actually 3 weeks in Britain. Just cut out visiting Ireland on this itinerary and spend your 3 weeks touring around England, Wales and Scotland. And if you only have 2 weeks in the UK, I suggest spend most of your time in London before heading north to Scotland.

For more UK and Irish travel inspiration:

• UK Working Holiday
• Ireland Working Holiday
• How to Spend 5 Days in London
• Where to Stay in London when you move abroad to live there

Watch out for Kiwis on your 1 month New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

Kia ora (greetings). Has Aotearoa (New Zealand – land of the long white cloud) been calling your name? If you love adventure, hiking, beaches and adrenaline activities, there’s no better place to visit than New Zealand. And one of the best ways to experience New Zealand is to stay on the ground and discover the country. If you have one month holiday coming your way, then you will love my 1 month New Zealand road trip itinerary.

Those familiar with the country will know that it’s split between two islands – North Island and South Island. While both are spectacular, South Island often gets most of the attention and North Island is sometimes left as an afterthought. However, this one month New Zealand itinerary will walk you through the best spots to check out and show you how unique and beautiful both islands of New Zealand are.

If you are in the planning stages of your New Zealand holiday you will be pleased to know I’ve divided this post into two sections. The first section is my 1 month itinerary of New Zealand to give you heaps of ideas of what to see and do in New Zealand. The second section is the planning section where you will find lots of tips and details of how to organise your holiday to New Zealand.

Are you ready to make the most of one month in New Zealand? Come say Kia Ora to New Zealand on this 1 month in New Zealand road trip itinerary. And discover New Zealand’s two major islands – the New Zealand North Island and New Zealand South Island.

Summary of Your 1 Month New Zealand Itinerary

Here’s a glance at this New Zealand itinerary. On this New Zealand travel itinerary for 1 month you will spend around 15 days on New Zealand’s North Island. There is one day sailing from the North Island to the South Island. Then you have around 13-15 days exploring the South Island of New Zealand before it’s time to say goodbye.

Days

1-3 – Arrive and spend your first few days in New Zealand in Auckland
4-5 – Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Bay of Islands
6 – Cape Reinga
7 – 8 – Coromandel
9 -10 – Hobbiton and Rotorua
11 -12 – Taupo
13 – Tongariro National Park
14 -15 – Wellington
16 – leave Wellington to South Island by boat and drive to Christchurch
17-18 – Christchurch
19 – Christchurch to Dunedin
20 – Dunedin
21 – Dunedin to Invercargill
22 – Invercargill to Te Anau
23 – Day trip to Doubtful Sound
24 – Day trip to Milford Sound
25 – Te Anau to Queenstown
26 – Queenstown
27 – Queenstown to Wanaka
28 – Wanaka to Franz Josef Glacier
29 – Franz Josef Glacier to Greymouth to Picton with ferry back to Wellington
30 – Drive Wellington to Auckland, via West Coast stopping at Waitomo Glow Worm Caves (about 5.5 hours).
31 – Caves to Auckland about 2.5 hours (or do as a day trip from Auckland, In week 1) – leave New Zealand

Ready to Book Your New Zealand Holiday?

Get a great airfare through Skyscanner
Find somewhere to stay via Booking.com
You can book your trip on the inter-island ferry here
See all the best sights on the Auckland Hop-on Hop-off Explorer Bus
My favourite tour was the Hobbiton Movie Set

New Zealand Travel Itinerary 1 Month

Note: This 1 month itinerary for New Zealand starts and finishes in Auckland as this is where most people arrive and leave. However, New Zealand has a number of airports so you could fly into Auckland and out of another city such as Wellington or Christchurch.

Days 1-3 – Arrive and Explore Auckland

Enjoy Auckland Harbour

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and there’s plenty to see and do. There are great cafes, restaurants and shopping throughout the city and many tourist attractions to keep you busy.

Best Things to See and Do in Auckland

• Head to the SkyTower for panoramic views of Auckland, walk around the edge or even jump off – New Zealand is about adventure after all! 
• Stroll around Viaduct Basin in Auckland Harbour and pop into a cafe, bar or restaurant. If you want to get into the action in the harbour, take to the water on a harbour cruise or get into some yacht racing while on your America’s Cup Sailing Experience. 
• Hop on public transit to explore Mt. Eden for an easy 2km walk to a stunning view of the city. Mt. Eden is actually a sacred crater that you can see once you reach the top. Just be careful not to fall in!
• Visit One Tree Hill (officially known as Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill). It is a 182-metre volcanic peak and public park situated within the suburb of One Tree Hill.
• If you’re after a beach day, Mission Bay Beach is one of the closest beaches to the city and it won’t disappoint.
• Opt to spend the day at Waiheke Island which you can get to by ferry. There are numerous beaches along the island with fun water activities to partake in. 
• Enjoy one of the many parks – Auckland Botanic Gardens, Eden Gardens and Parnell Rose Gardens. 
• Want to see native flora and fauna a visit to Auckland Zoo might be on your cards. Particularly Te Who Nui – the Living Realm at Auckland Zoo showcasing native animals, including the Kiwi.

One of the best ways to discover Auckland is to purchase a ticket on the Auckland Hop-on Hop-off Explorer bus. I know, I know, they are touristy. But I love them. Every new city I visit that has a hop-on hop-off bus I go on. This is because they take me to all the best places. I usually do a complete circuit first to help me to decide where I would like to re-visit and spend time.

Book your Auckland Hop-on Hop-off Explorer Bus ticket here.

Where to stay in Auckland

There are plenty of accommodation options for your Auckland stay. For a bed in a hostel, check out  HIT Hostel, Haka Lodge or Attic Backpackers. Prefer a budget hotel a couple of options are Auckland City Hotel and Verandahs Parkside Lodge. For a splurge check out SkyCity Grand Hotel Auckland, Four Points by Sheraton Hotel and as you are staying a few nights in Auckland you may wish to find an apartment, such as the Empire Apartments. More accommodation options in Auckland can be found here.

Days Trips from Auckland

If you prefer, you could keep Auckland as your base and undertake day trips to some of the places we visit on this road trip, particularly those north of Auckland. Some day trips from Auckland are:

• Waitomo Glow Worm Caves – float through the caves and see it light up from the glow worms. This is factored into this itinerary on the 2nd and last day of the itinerary to give you options. You can book a day tour to the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves including a visit to Hobbiton here.
• Coromandel Peninsula – experience his beautiful area with its mountainous, forest-covered, sheltered bays.
• Cape Reinga & Waitangi Treaty Grounds – Discover where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed and head to the Northern most tip of New Zealand where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. An Auckland to Cape Reinga itinerary is part of this New Zealand road trip itinerary.
• New Zealand Wineries – many wineries are only a short drive away.

Plenty of traditional Japanese gates to see on your one month holiday in Japan

Konnichiwa to Japan, known as the land of the rising sun. Japan is a country rich in history, culture, unforgettable landscapes, tech gadgets and fabulous food. No doubt, you will have in your mind places you want to visit in Japan – just like I did. Planning a trip to Japan can be a lot fun, but also daunting. That’s where this day-by-day 1 month Japan itinerary comes in. If it’s your first time in Japan, this one month Japan itinerary for first timers, features some of the most memorable sites and attractions to visit on a Japanese holiday.

In this post I’ll show you exactly how you can spend 4 weeks in Japan. It is based on my own Japanese travels. I’ll also advise on the Japanese transport and accommodations available to you plus, I’ve included lots of tips so you can start planning your memorable holiday in Japan. I’ve divided the post into 2 sections. The first section is devoted to planning your Japan itinerary which starts and finishes in Tokyo. While the second section is my suggested Japan 4 week itinerary. So let’s get into this 1 month Japan itinerary.

Is one Month Long Enough in Japan?

If I had the choice I would spend a lot longer than one month in Japan. But one month in Japan is a very good start to begin discovering this amazing country. Now before you read any further, I must warn you that this itinerary of Japan is jam-packed with things to see and do every day. Providing you with as many opportunities as possible to experience Japan. Some days you will need to be very prompt on your departure, but as everything in Japan runs like clockwork, you should be fine to fit everything in. After all, I did!

Prepare for Your 1 Month in Japan Trip

Who is this Japan 1 Month Itinerary for?

If you are wondering who can go on this Japan holiday, well, anyone! This Japan 1 month itinerary is very comprehensive and versatile and there is something in this itinerary for everyone. No matter if you are travelling solo to Japan, with a friend or partner, as a backpacker to Japan or coming to Japan on a family holiday to explore Japan with kids, there is something for everyone in this itinerary.

Best Time to Visit Japan

The Japanese archipelago is over 1900 miles or 3000 km in length. Meaning, Japan is large and has a variety of different climate zones. Generally speaking, the best time to travel to Japan is either Autumn in Japan (September, October, November ) or Spring in Japan (March, April, May). But particularly late March and early April so you can catch a glimpse of the Japan cherry blossoms. This is when I visited Japan and even though it was Spring in Japan, it was extremely cold. Winter in Japan (December, January, February) is also beautiful but can be extremely cold in some areas due to snowfall. But that will be great if you want to snowboard or ski in Japan. While Summer in Japan (June, July, August) is known for its heat and humidity with lots of tourists. So if you are visiting Japan during those times, be sure to prepare for the weather you may encounter accordingly!

If you want to visit Japan for special Japanese events, such as ‘golden week’, ensure you book rail seats in advance as it can be very busy. If you plan on hiking Mt Fuji, July is the best time to visit Japan for this. For skiing in Japan the best time is the winter months.

READ MORE: Work and Ski Japan

TIP: You will be doing a lot of walking on this one month in Japan itinerary. I highly suggest you have comfortable shoes and clothes for the climate you will be visiting Japan in.

How to Get to Japan

As Japan is surrounded by ocean, the best way to get to Japan is to fly. Major international airport hubs are outside of Tokyo and Osaka. Another option to arrive in Japan is by boat. A number of ocean liner cruisers visit Japanese ports. Most international visitors to Japan arriving in Japan on their first visit arrive at Narita International Airport by plane. You can check airfares to Japan here.

How to Get from Tokyo’s Narita Airport into the City Centre

Narita Airport is around 1 hour out of centre of Tokyo. So when you arrive, you need to figure out how to get into the city. There are a few options to get into Tokyo from Narita Airport. You can take a taxi from Narita Airport into Tokyo but this is the most expensive option. Therefore, consider the Narita Express. It is a fast and convenient train service taking you from Narita Airport to major Tokyo train stations such as Tokyo Station, Shibuya Station and Shinjuku Station. This can take around 6-90 minutes depending on which station you are getting off at. Another train is the Keisei Skyliner that is a fast and direct service from Narita Airport to Ueno Station in the heart of Tokyo. Depending on where your accommodation is located this is a great option to get you from Narita Airport into Tokyo.

BOOK Your one-way Skyline Ticket from Narita Airport to Tokyo here

The next option to get into Tokyo from Narita Airport is by limousine bus. This bus service will take you from Narita Airport to popular destinations in down Tokyo including some bus stops at train stations in Tokyo and some major hotels. This was the option I took when I first arrived in Tokyo as a transfer from Narita Airport to my hotel was included in the cost of the accommodation. It took around 60 minutes and was quite scenic as we passed open land before travelling into Tokyo. It was my first glimpse of Japanese countryside and Tokyo.

BOOK Your one-way Shuttle Ticket from Narita Airport to Tokyo here

How to Travel around Japan During Your Month Holiday in Japan

Japan has a number of different options available to travel in and around Japan. From buses to car rentals to taxis, but unless you have a decent grasp of the Japanese language, most of these options will give you a rough time. Flying is an option. Flights are expensive and the waiting time at the airport will be longer than some of the flights to get you to the places on this one month Japan travel itinerary. Fortunately, Japan has some of the most efficient public transportation in the world with its Shinkansen Bullet Trains and train systems. You might still encounter some difficulty with language but the train stations are standardized and easier to navigate. And there are English signs to help those who don’t read Japanese. Plus the Japanese have designed the fabulous Japan Rail Pass to make your travels in Japan efficient and enjoyable.

This Japan itinerary I have designed can be done by hiring a car and driving or by train by purchasing in advance a Japan Rail Pass. For your first visit to Japan, I highly recommend the route I have suggested, which, can be done in reverse. It takes in what is known as the Golden Route of Japan – Tokyo, Mt Fuji, Kyoto, Osaka and back to Tokyo but we visit plenty more places in Japan on this 1 month in Japan itinerary. You will get to see all the major Japan bucket list items you should see, plus loads more. And there is plenty of opportunity to discover things not on my itinerary.

Japanese Accommodation – Where Will You Stay in Japan?

Japan offers some great accommodation for your holiday. It ranges from westernised hostels and hotels to compact but cheap capsule hotels to traditional ryokans for a taste of authentic Japanese culture. The accommodation suggested in this Japan itinerary is mostly westernised hostels and hotels. Options are listed under each town/city where you will require accommodation. I found all my Japan holiday accommodation options through Booking.com. You can also find traditional Japanese accommodation like ryokans at Booking.com also.

TIP: If you want to stay connected while in Japan, I suggest you get Pocket wifi and a Japanese SIM card. And if you don’t know how to read Japanese, though many signs are in English, having access to Google will come in very handy, trust me on this! And downlowd apps such as Google Maps so you can find your way around – I used this regularly to find my way around the big Japanese cities.

How Much Will One Month in Japan Cost?

To work out how much a trip to Japan will cost you, create a spreadsheet as follows. TIP: Pay as much as possible in advance so you know how much spending money you have to take.

Airfare to Japan $_____
Accommodation (per night) $_____ x 30 = $_______
Transport around Japan – flights $_______
Day tours $_______
Meals x 3 per day $_______
Entrance Fees $_____
Extras (souvenirs, etc) $______

What to Pack for a Japan Holiday

What you should pack for a trip to Japan will depend on the season you are visiting Japan. In the warmer months you will need light clothing as it can get very hot and humid in Japan, but you may need a light jacket in the evening. While in the winter months, Japan can be very cold and you will need to wear layers of clothes to stay warm. If you are heading to the Japan ski resorts read my post on packing ski wear. Japan is definitely more modest than some Western countries when it comes to what to wear in Japan. So dress modestly as it will help you blend in in Japan. The more you blend in, the less you look like a tourist in Japan. My biggest tip for what to pack to wear in Japan no matter if you are backpacking solo in Japan or travelling Japan with kids is to invest in a good pair of walking shoes as on this 4 week Japan itinerary you will be doing plenty of walking while sightseeing Japan. Also, when moving every couple of days it is advisable to choose appropriate luggage, and in the case of this Japanese itinerary I would suggest a backpack as they are far easier to carry around.

What and Where to Eat in Japan

If you think Japanese people only eat Sushi well, Japan has some wonderful foods just waiting for you to try. And some of the best places to eat are where the locals eat rather than restaurants in your hotel, though they are convenient sometimes. Why not include learning to make Japanese food in your itinerary with a Japanese cookery class.

Here is a Quick Summary of My Day-by-Day 1 Month in Japan Itinerary

Days
1-4: Arrive and enjoy Tokyo
5: Day trip to Yokohama
6: Day trip to Mt Fuji & Hakone
7-8: Nagoya
9-12: Kyoto – alternative here – as Kyoto and Osaka are only half an hour or so away from each other, you could base yourself in one of these cities longer and do day trips.
13-15: Osaka
16–18: Kobe
19-20: Hiroshima
21: Fukuoka
22-23: Nagano
24-25: Fukushima
26–29: Sapporo
30: Return to Tokyo to depart Japan

One Month Japanese Itinerary

Kick off your 4 weeks in Japan itinerary in Tokyo. On arriving at Narita Airport, don’t forget to pick up your pocket sim before catching your chosen transport into Tokyo. Check in to your Tokyo accommodation and get ready to discover Japan.

Tokyo (Day 1-4)

Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo

Recommended Stay in Tokyo: 3-6 days

What to See and Do in Tokyo

As the most well-known metropolis in the country, it’d practically be a crime not to visit Tokyo for at least a few days during your month-long holiday in Japan. The number of things to see is almost limitless – but you can still pack the most “essential” sightseeing spots into a few days. Some of these include the Sensō-ji Temple, the Meiji Shingu Shrine, and Shinjuku for its popping city life. Odaiba Seaside Park also has a lot of one-of-a-kind museums, art galleries, and other attractions. If you’re a fan of anime, Akihabara District and Nakano Broadway are some other places you might want to visit. The Ghibli Museum is also located in Tokyo and is a definite must-see if you’re a fan of Ghibli movies like Spirited Away, Kiki’s Delivery Service, and Totoro. Plus there is the Imperial Palace and the Observation Deck of the Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views of Tokyo. Make time to shop till you drop in the shopping emporiums in Ginza. And experience a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony.

READ MORE: How to Spend 3 Days in Tokyo

When in a new city I always like to do that city’s hop-on hop-off tourist bus. This is because it takes me to all the best spots, gives me a commentary about the place, and provides me with the opportunity to hop off the bus and explore the place before getting back on the bus to the next spot. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but I like to do it.

BOOK your Tokyo Hop-on Hop-off Bus tour

BOOK your Traditional Tea Ceremony Experience

Visit Tokyo Disneyland and/or Disneysea

You may want to include in your time in Tokyo a visit to Disneyland Tokyo, it would have to be one of the top Tokyo attractions for kids to Japan of all ages. This kid, who was in her 20s at the time, just loved visiting Disneyland Tokyo. If you have been to other Disneyland’s around the world, like I have been to Disneyland in Los Angeles, you can expect the same sort of thing. There are many lands to discover, shows to see, rides to go on, foods to enjoy and shopping of Disneyland souvenirs to purchase. You can easily spend a whole day here. The only negative I found was that announcements are made in Japanese first, then other languages. When I was at a show, it was spoken in Japanese and everyone was laughing, but not me, I had to wait for the English to understand what was so funny!

You can make your way to Tokyo Disneyland by public transport, but I purchased my Tokyo Disneyland ticket that included a private pick-up from my hotel. I found this so much easier and also appreciated the lift home after a long day of walking.

You can purchase your transfer and ticket to Tokyo Disneyland here.

If you prefer to make your own way to Tokyo Disneyland, get your Tokyo 1 day passport here.

If you have been to Disneyland before you may be looking for something different to do, particularly if you are travelling to Japan with kids, so maybe consider a day visit to DisneySea. DisneySea, like most these parks, is divided into worlds. There is the American Waterfront, Lost River Delta, Mediterranean Harbour, Mystery Island and Mermaid Lagoon to name a few. There are plenty of rides to enjoy, mostly water-themed. It’s also close to Disneyland, so you can combine a visit to both on the one day.

You can purchase your transfer and ticket to DisneySea here.

If you want to combine a visit to both Disneyland and DisneySea with a private transfer, you can purchase your ticket online here.

Where to Stay in Tokyo

I suggest you book 6 nights accommodation in Tokyo. This will cover your arrival, 4 days of sightseeing in Tokyo, plus 2 day trips. One to Yokohama and the other to Mt Fuji. Tokyo is home to all styles of accommodation from traditional Japanese style to modern western style. Read my post on different styles of Japanese accommodation here. If seeking a hostel stay for your time in Tokyo check out Imano Tokyo Hostel. Only 1.5km from the city centre and not only has bunks for single travellers available but rooms for families and groups of 2-4 people. Get pricing and to book here for a stay at Imano Tokyo Hostel. Looking for a budget hotel check out the Ibis Styles or for a medium price hotel check out the Mitsui Gardens in Tokyo Bay. As you are staying in Tokyo close to a week, you may be interested to rent a small apartment. One such apartment is the one-bed T-Home. For more hostel, hotel and apartment options check out Booking.com.

Day 5 – Day trip to Yokohama from Tokyo

Recommended Stay: 1-2 days
Distance Tokyo to Yokohama: As Yokohama is only an 18 minute train trip (and the leave every 15 to 20 minutes) from Tokyo, Yokohama is being done as a day trip from Tokyo on this one month itinerary of Japan.

Yokohama began as a small fishing village. It’s willingness to open its arms to foreign trade from the 17^th century onward – during which most of Japan wanted to keep closed off from the rest of the world – has led Yokohama’s growth into the second biggest city in the country today. It is the capital of the Kanagawa Prefecture and lies on Tokyo Bay, south of Tokyo. While in this major commercial hub, soak in some of the sites with a stroll through Yamashita Park or Minato Mirai 21. Both of these have stunning scenery and attractions aplenty. You may also want to swing by Chinatown. Built from the ground up by immigrants who were welcomed into this port city these past centuries. Maybe a visit to the free Nogeyama Zoo is on the cards.

BOOK Day Trip to Yokohama

Day 6 – Day trip from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji

Recommended Stay: 1-2 days
Distance Yokohama to Mt Fuji: 120km, taking just over 2 hours by train and is an easy day trip from Tokyo.

Mt. Fuji is the most iconic landmark in Japan, bar none. It offers a beautiful view both from the top of its peak and from the ground below. In July and August, you can hike up one of the many trails. Or you can catch a glimpse of this picturesque volcano by visiting or staying at one of the many nearby camping grounds. There are lakes at the bottom of the volcano known as the Five Lakes which offer many things to do. Read my post Day Trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo, it provides loads of options of how to spend your day visiting Mt Fuji. Something not to miss during this 1 month Japan itinerary.

BOOK Full Day Tour to Mount Fuji

Day 7-8 – Nagoya

Recommended Stay: 1-2 days
Distance Tokyo to Nagoya: 350km or about 4.5 hours

What to See and Do in Nagoya

After a week spent exploring Tokyo, it is time to hit the road or Shinkansen for a trip to Nagoya. Though not as well-known as some of Japan’s other major cities, Nagoya and its surrounding areas were the heart of Japanese culture and politics around 500 years ago. For a taste of some of that history, you need look no further than the Tokugawa Art Museum, which displays an array of artifacts from samurai armor to kimonos to ceramics, bequeathed by the descendants of one of Japan’s most famous warlords. The Railway Museum is also a worthwhile stop if you’re curious about one of the most efficient public transportation systems in the world.

If you want to squeeze a little more out of your stay, take a bus tour up to Takayama and Shirakawago to get an up-close look at a traditional farmhouse village designated as a UNESCO world heritage site.

BOOK One Full Day Tour of Nagoya

BOOK Visit to Takayama and Shirakawago

Where to stay in Nagoya

Nagoya has a number of comfortable accommodation options for your short stay. Nagoya Cafe Restaurant and Guest House offers pod style and dormitory rooms for travellers. There is a cafe restaurant on the ground floor and accommodation on the second floor. Meet other travellers while travelling on this 1 month Japan itinerary. Check out availability and rates for Nagoya Cafe Restaurant and Guest House here. For a comfortable hotel room check out the Hotel Unizo. More hostel and hotel options in Nagoya can be found here.

Day 9-11 – Kyoto

Recommended Stay: 2-3 days (an alternative is to stay 5-6 days as Kyoto is only half an hour or so from Osaka. You could base yourself here and do day trips saving you moving accommodation).
Distance Nagoya to Kyoto: just under 130km taking just under 2 hours by train

What to See and Do in Kyoto

To learn more about Japanese history and culture, there is no better place than Kyoto. The city is filled to the brim with temples, Zen shrines, tori gates and beautiful gardens and there is hardly a dull one amongst them. Whether you decide to go to Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine, Kinkakuji Temple, Tofuku-Ji Temple, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, or one of the many other beautiful religious and historic sites in Kyoto, you’re guaranteed an awe-inspiring look at architecture and the traditional Japanese way of life. Maybe discover a traditional teahouse here.

That’s not all Kyoto has to offer, though. You can take a stroll through Arashiyama, a bamboo forest unlike any other. Book a seat at an authentic Japanese tea ceremony. Or buy a ticket to see a live samurai performance. There’s even a mountain park filled to the brim with monkeys called Iwatayama Monkey Park. These are wild monkeys and it’s quite a hike, so you want to be sure you’re prepared for an adventure.

BOOK Full Day Tour Best UNESCO and Historical Sites of Kyoto Tour

Where to stay in Kyoto

For hostel accommodation in Kyoto check out Ryokan Hostel Gion and for a budget hotel option see Kamoya Ryokan and for a medium priced hotel see Ibis Styles Kyoto Station. More options can be found here.

Day 12-14 – Osaka

Recommended Stay: 2-3 days (an alternative is to stay 5-6 days as Osaka is only half an hour or so from Kyoto, so you could base yourself here and do day trips saving you moving accommodation).
Distance Kyoto to Osaka: 56km taking about 55 minutes

What to See and Do in Osaka

Osaka rests in the heart of the Kansai region of Japan and is a huge economic center in the country. Some of the main highlights include Osaka Castle, which is not just gorgeous and extensive but filled to the brim with Japanese history; Kuchu Teien Observatory, a very cool-looking building with a design like no other boasting a panoramic view from its rooftop; and the National Bunraku Theatre, a puppet theatre that uses a traditional Japanese style of performance (and no worries, an English translation is available via rented headset). For the nightlife, check out Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street for a little bit of excitement and some photo-worthy illumination.

If you’re not all shrined out after Kyoto, there is one shrine you might want to take a gander at. Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, is one of the oldest shrines in Japan from before Buddhism came to the country. Sumiyoshi doesn’t suffer from Kyoto’s heavy crowds, and as such, you’ll be able to enjoy the gorgeous grounds and unique architecture in relative peace. Maybe try local delicacies of okonomiyaki (savoury pancake) and takoyaki (fried octopus ball) at the Kuromon Ichiba Market. Why not take a Japanese cookery class to learn how to make some of the food so you can make and enjoy at home. Or enjoy a visit to Universal Studios.

BOOK Main Sites Osaka Tour

BOOK Osaka Food Tour

Learn to make Ramen & Gyoza in Osaka – BOOK A Cookery Class

Where to stay in Osaka

For a bed in a hostel in Osaka check out Osaka Guesthouse HIVE  and for a budget hotel option see APA Hotel Shin-Osaka-Ekiminami and for a medium priced hotel see Hotel Route-Inn Osaka Honmachi. More options can be found here.

Day 15-17 – Kobe

Recommended Stay: 2-3 days
Distance Osaka to Kobe: is only 34km so only half an hour or so

What to See and Do in Kobe

One of the great things about Kobe is that much of its city life can be experienced in one location, Kobe Harborland. Not only do you get a great view of the harbor, you get access to great shopping and restaurants where you can sample some world-famous Kobe beef. If you’re too much of an animal lover to indulge in that, though, you’re in luck because Kobe Animal Kingdom is just a hop, skip and a jump away. It’s especially perfect if you have kids. In addition to a petting zoo, there’s a hawk show, a camel ride, and a chance to feed penguins.

For a peaceful retreat from the city, take the Nunobiki Ropeway to the top of one of hilly Kobe’s mountains. Here, you can spend a relaxing afternoon visiting various attractions, including Kobe Nunobiki’s expansive and fragrant Herb Gardens, Monkey Kazura Bridge, and Nunobiki Falls.

Where to stay in Kobe

Staying in Kobe for a couple of nights so for a bed in a hostel in Kobe Guesthouse Maya. For a budget hotel option see Hotel Monte Hermana Kobe Amalie and for a medium priced hotel check out The Royal Park Canvas – Kobe Sannomiya. More options can be found here.

Day 18–19 – Hiroshima

Recommended Stay: 1-2 days
Distance: Kobe to Hiroshima: 300km or just over 4 hours by train – your morning will be all travelling

What to See and Do in Hiroshima

Though most well-known for being bombed at the end of the last world war, Hiroshima is a beautiful city in its own right. You can pay tribute to the lives lost with a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, featuring the hollowed shell of a building at ground zero and a gallery talking about the lives of people in Hiroshima before the bombing. Take a breath of fresh air through Shukkei-en Garden or stop at Orizuru Tower for a gorgeous view of the city.

If you have time, take a day trip to Itsukushima Shrine, the “floating” shrine. It is an expansive complex built on the water of the coast of Miyajima Island where you can learn about different traditional deities and (if you’re visiting from May to November) may even get a chance to ride a boat under the floating red O-Torii, a traditional wooden Shinto gate built in 1875 and is the eighth such gate since the shrine was originally built.

TIP: take the streetcar to get around in Hiroshima. The city is quite big, but the trains and streetcars will take you to every corner of Hiroshima. The streetcar costs a flat rate of ¥180 within the inner city and ¥280 beyond the city.

BOOK Hiroshima Walking Tour

Where to stay in Hiroshima

For a bed in a hostel only .7km to the centre of Hiroshima check out WeBase Hiroshima.  For a budget hotel option see Daiwa Roynet Hotel Hiroshima. And a medium priced hotel see KIRO Hiroshima by THE SHARE HOTELS. More options can be found here.

Day 20 – Fukuoka

Recommended Stay: 1 day
Distance Hiroshima to Fukuoka: 282km just under 3 hours travel

What to See and Do in Fukuoka

Fukuoka is a city set right on the water. It is a perfect place to get some fresh seafood, whether at a sit-down restaurant or one of the many outdoor stalls set up within the city. The trip starts right at Hakata Station, which is both the main means of transportation and a bustling mall chock full of great shopping opportunities. Not too far away is Ohori Park, which is a great place to rent a paddleboat so you can see the ducks and seagulls up close and personal. If you have time, stop at the local aquarium. Marine World Umino-Nakamichi has many glowing reviews about the aquarium’s focus on making the visitors’ experience as fun and memorable as possible.

Where to stay in Fukuoka

it’s only a one night stay in Fukuoka. A hostel close to the centre of town is Fukuoka Guesthouse HIVE.  For a comfortable hotel option see Best Western Plus Fukuoka Tenjin-minami. More options can be found here.

Day 21-23 – Nagano

Recommended Stay: 1-2 days
Distance: Fukuoka to Nagano is a long trip of about 8 hours so day 21 mostly spent in transport.

What to See and Do in Nagano

After such a long trip you may not wish to start sightseeing straight away but there is plenty to see and do if you do. The first stop in Nagano is Zenko-Ji Temple, which includes not only the temple itself but a history museum and many Buddha statues. Another great place to visit is Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, where you can see the Japanese macaques bathing in the hot springs of the mountains. If you’re up for a little adventure, you may want to spend an extra day in Nagano in order to explore the Togakushi Folk Museum, particularly their Ninja Trick Mansion that is built like a maze with narrow hallways, hidden passages, and an entire room set at an angle. Nagano was the scene of the 1998 Olympic Winter Games held February 7-22 1998. If you are visiting during the winter months you may want to ski or snowboard for the day. Or perhaps get a job in the Japanese ski fields for a season.

BOOK Day Tour to see Snow Monkeys and Zenkoji Temple

Where to stay in Nagano

For a hostel stay in Nagano city check out 1166 Backpackers. Seeking a hotel room check out Comfort Hotel Nagano. If wanting to do a bit of skiing you are best to look at the ski resort of Hakbua. A great option on the mountain is the Hakuba Matata Lodge.

Day 24 – 25 Fukushima

Recommended Stay: 1-2 days
Distance: Nagano to Fukushima is a few hours away, not direct by train you will need to go back to Tokyo to change.

What to See and Do in Fukushima

Stepping into Fukushima is like taking a step back in time; it is a place overflowing with stunning landscapes and historic buildings. One great place to start is castle town Aizu-Wakamatsu, which has attractions ranging from its impressive Tsuruga Castle to hot springs to Ōchijuku, a former post town along a once-popular trade route. To take in some of its natural beauty, take a day trip to the Bandai region. Here you’ll get a chance to hike amongst the dormant volcanos, such as Azuma Kofuji. If you’re around in winter time, there’s a chance to ski down the slopes. In springtime, a visit to Hanamiyama Park is also an absolute must to see the ethereal spread of cherry blossom trees spanning the mountainside.

Where to stay in Fukushima

For a hostel stay in Fukushima city check out Yumori Onsen Hostel. For a hotel room check out Richmond Hotel Fukushima Ekimae and for more accommodation options visit Booking.com.

Day 26-29 – Find the Heart of Hokkaido in Sapporo

Recommended Stay: 3-4 days
Distance: Fukushima to Sapporo is a good 8 hours on the Shinkansen, but well worth it.

What to See and Do in Sapporo

Sapporo is located on Hokkaido, which is a separate island to the north of the main island (called Honshu by the Japanese). Hokkaido honestly deserves a week-long trip all to itself, but since this itinerary is dedicated to Japan as a whole, you can cut down on the time by focusing your attention on Sapporo and its surrounding areas. Some highlights include Mt. Moiwa, where you can take a ropeway to one of the best views of the city; Moerenuma Park, an artistically designed area that includes bike rentals and a pyramid-shaped museum; and the Historical Village of Hokkaido, a beautifully preserved area where you can learn a ton about Hokkaido’s history and culture.

If you’re planning your holiday during the winter, be sure to stop by the Sapporo Snow Festival as well, where people come from all across Japan to create truly astounding ice and snow sculptures. It is one of the most famous attractions in Japan for a reason and is certainly not to be missed.

Where to stay in Sapporo

The stay in Sapporo is longer than some of the other cities, and there are plenty of comfortable and central options. For a bed in a hostel see Untapped Hostel. Hotel options to check out are Quintessa Hotel Sapporo or Tokyu Stay Sapporo. For more accommodation options in Sapporo visit here.

Day 30

Unfortunately all good things must come to an end and on this last day of this 1 month Japan itinerary leave Sapporo and travel back to Tokyo (about 9 hours on the train). Depart Japan.

What to do Now? Make a Japan Bucket List

My one month Japan itinerary is just the start of your own trip to Japan. There may be things you want to do apart from sightseeing. These could include taking part in a tea ceremony. Enjoy being pampered in a onsen (traditional Japanese bath). See a sumo wrestling match. Discover the art of Geisha. Maybe take a Japanese cooking class. Stay in a Ryokan (traditional Japanese accommodation). Hike to the top of Mount Fuji. If you have specific things you want to see and do while in Japan ensure you include them on your Japan bucket list and then slot them into your itinerary.

Extend Your Stay Longer than 1 month in Japan

If a month in Japan isn’t long enough and you have more time to explore it, by all means, please do. There are a number of visas available that allow you to have an extended stay in Japan. A tourist visa will allow a stay of up to 90 days. There is the Working Holiday Visa and the Work Permit allowing stays of one year and longer. With one of these you can work and travel in Japan and get a job such as Teaching English in Japan or get a job in the Japanese ski resorts to work and ski Japan.

Don’t have 1 month to spend in Japan? What about 3 Weeks in Japan itinerary!

If you don’t have a month to spend in Japan what about 1, 2 or 3 weeks in Japan.

Suggested 1 week in Japan itinerary. During one week in Japan I’d visit Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto.

For a 2 week holiday in Japan, I would suggest a 2 week Japan itinerary where you visit Tokyo – Kyoto – Osaka – Hiroshima – Tokyo. Visiting these four cities is very doable during a 14 day visit to Japan.

Three week Japan itinerary. Yep, for a 3 week Japan itinerary you could follow my 1 month in Japan itinerary up until day 19 when you visit Hiroshima. From here head back to Tokyo to leave for home. This would be a great 21 day Japan itinerary.

My top tips for your Japan Holiday

• Etiquette is a wonderful quality to have in Japan. Manners are very important and you should be aware of some basic rules. 
• Don’t eat in public, particularly while walking. 
• Wear a mask if you get a cold. 
• Keep conversations quiet while on public transport and never put your feet on the seats. 
• Follow rubbish separation laws. TIP: Always have a plastic bag with you to put your rubbish in as bins are not easily found. 
• Always use an umbrella when raining. 
• Travel by train. Japan has one of the best train systems I have ever used. They are fast, reliable, comfortable and JapanRail has great rail passes.
• Stand to the left on escalators.
• Purchasing items. When making a purchase, put your money on the tray.
• Tipping and Bargaining. Tipping is not required in Japan and tips maybe given back to you. It is also considered rude to bargain.
• Buying snacks and light meals is easy in the Konbini (convenience store). There will be many in most cities from 7/11, Family Mart to Lawson. You can stock up on snacks, or eat in the cafes and restaurants.

Final Words on this One Month Japan Travel Itinerary

All good things must come to an end. And this is the end of my one month Japan travel itinerary. I hope my sample Japan travel itinerary helps you plan and tailor a dream trip to Japan. It is not difficult at all visiting Japan as a solo traveller, with another person or your family. Let me know in the comments if you have tried my one month in Japan itinerary or if you have any suggestions on other things a first time traveller must do and see in Japan. 

For More Travel Inspiration on Japan.
Japan Working Holiday
Japan Holiday Accommodation
Tips for Travelling Japan on the Japan Rail Pass
Tips to stay safe during an Earthquake or Tsunami in Japan
Work and Ski Japan – How to Get a Job in a Japanese Ski Resort
Learn to Cook Japanese Food on a Japanese Cookery Class