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Stop Telling Travelers: "Use Common Sense." It's Not Helping Anybody. There are few things more irksome on internet travel threads than fellow travelers advising people to “use common sense” when OP has asked advice about traveling safely. The phrase “use common sense” is thrown around so often that it ultimately sounds smug and dismissive, especially when it comes to something as nuanced as personal safety. While “common sense” may be shorthand for “be alert, be cautious, stay aware,” it neglects the realities of individual backgrounds, experiences, and biases. And it totally overlooks something that’s crucial to how we experience travel: our personal appetite for risk. Nor is risk evenly distributed. Solo female travelers, LGBTQ+ travelers, people of color, even (and especially) those with disabilities all face unique situations. Telling someone to “just use your common sense” serves only to erase these and other very real differences between explorers. Thanks /u/ mytravelempathyneedsanupgrade Moreover, shouldn't each destination warrant a more case-by-case explanation? Maybe it’s time for the phrase “use common sense” to be stricken from travel guidance altogether – it does no one any favors. What is true is that travelers need to have a personal safety toolbox , equipped at all times, and honed to enhance personal safety without compromising one’s enjoyment of adventure. Read on to learn how we actually stay safe while traveling, without sacrificing your sense of adventure. Like, say, the in-law's house during Thanksgiving? An Anecdote for Context Diego  grew up in Medellín, Colombia circa 1991. Sally  has never been outside her hometown of Westport, Connecticut. At first glance, we might assume Sally is the ill-equipped traveler when it comes to safety, since she’s never left her bubble. And sure, in the absence of life experience outside Westport, she might be a tad naïve about potential dangers in another city. But Diego, despite growing up in one of the most notoriously dangerous cities of the early ’90s, might have his own blind spots thanks to a major glitch in human programming. Cuzco, amid riot police & attempted self-coup Human nature is tricky. We tend to habituate, even to high-stress conditions, and become desensitized to extreme situations we deal with regularly. Diego may know how to duck a hail of bullets, but complacency can sneak up on anybody and get us in trouble. Meanwhile, Sally, though inexperienced, might be hyper-aware of everything that could go wrong. From personal experience, the more I backpacked and stayed in hostels, the more comfortable I got. Which wasn’t necessarily a good thing for staying vigilant. I’ve met plenty of people who’ve had things stolen in hostel dorms. Still, I personally chose to take the risk rather than getting a cheap hotel for the chance to meet unforgettable travelers and make lasting connections. I’d secure my valuables as best I could and weigh the cost-benefit trade-off. Taking that risk wasn’t inherently foolish, just as avoiding it isn’t inherently over-cautious. It’s down to personal preference, not a nebulous "common sense". Of course, now that I’m married with a baby in tow, I have no desire to meet anybody new ever again. (Just kidding.) But to that point, actually: Nowadays, my decision-making doesn’t just affect me, it directly impacts the people I’m traveling with. The Traveler’s Toolbox: Some Tools for Staying Safe So, let's get practical about how to actually stay safe while traveling. When I think about what helps me stay safe on the road, I like to picture a hard-won, well-stocked toolbox that I can reach into whenever I need. Some tools are more literal – like a physical printed photocopy of my passport – but many are intangible mindsets and habits I’ve picked up over time. Instead of run-of-the-mill advice like, Don't Go There At Night, Look Over Your Shoulder at the ATM, Don't Follow Shady People on Treks, here are some favorite tools with a bit more nuance. Properly applied in case-by-case travel scenarios, they really help. 1. Appetite for Risk This is the measuring tape  in my toolbox. I gauge how much I’m willing to take on and how far I’m willing to go. It’s a mental barometer of sorts. Only individuals know their own risk tolerance. Why It Matters: This is crucial to know where to draw the line between I’m trying to get out of my comfort zone and I’m about to have zero control over this situation . 2. Situational Awareness & Cultural Competence This is the flashlight  in my toolbox. I use this to shine a light on (and adapt to) local norms. Why it Matters #1 :  On the one hand, am I naturally loud, boisterous, and high-energy? There’s a place and time for that. There’s also a time to be chill, to shut up, and take in the surroundings. It’s remarkable how “eyes open, mouth closed” has proven effective in so many situations. Why it Matters #2 :  Standing out doesn’t automatically equal danger, but it calls for more vigilance and flexibility in how I’m moving through unfamiliar settings. That may sound like ‘duh’, but it’s not as intuitive as we always think. 3. Informed Decision-Making This is the compass  – it guides me, but I still had to learn how to read it first. Why it Matters #1 :  Before I head to any radically new place, I read up on traveler forums, safety advisories, and personal blogs. Facts plus anecdotes help me understand what’s hype versus what’s real. It’s just not for safety! The money I’ve saved over the years thanks to good research is enough to finance a trip all by itself. Why it Matters #2 :  Sometimes the best decisions are spur-of-the-moment, like deciding when and how to find an exit route before a march turns violent, or picking a new bus route at the station when Plan A falls through. The more you’ve read and prepared, the easier that snap decision gets.        4. Emergency Plan Reservoir Every toolbox needs a stash of backup supplies  – your “just in case” resources. Why it Matters #1 :  I memorize a few emergency phrases in the local language – “I need help,” “Call the police,” "Where's your favorite taco spot?", “Where is the hospital?” Why it Matters #2 :  I think through what I’d do if my phone died, or if I got separated from my travel companions, or if I lost my wallet. This “reservoir” of possibilities keeps me prepared, should anything go sideways. WS&T Travel Tip: If you're with a group/family, don't designate one person to hold all the important stuff (phone, money, etc.). If that person is separated, the others are SOL. At the End of the Trip Risk tolerance shifts over time. I think it’s smart to check out your toolbox from time to time, if not simply to reassess your evolving priorities, then to make sure you haven’t become lax in your personal safety habits. The goal here isn’t to terrify anyone into missing out on life-changing adventures – it’s to encourage informed exploration. By acknowledging that risk tolerance varies from person to person, and that “common sense” can’t possibly account for everyone’s unique backgrounds, experiences, and identities, we get to have a richer conversation about travel safety. Here's a special call-to-arms for people with a wealth of travel experience : Travel represents a bridge of mutually beneficial cultural enrichment. Beyond simply feeding our souls, travel chips away at divisions between people and fosters respect, understanding, and cooperation. Inversely, isolation begets fear, otherism, and xenophobia... (you know what comes next). If cultural exchange makes better humans, we have a responsibility to take the time to help new travelers more safely explore their world. If you’ve got some tips and tools in your own traveler’s toolbox that you’d like to share, please leave a comment. Have a healthy respect for your personal safety without letting it overshadow genuine cultural immersion. The more you understand about yourself – and the places you visit – the more you’ll realize you can navigate new environments confidently, respectfully, and frankly, smarter. And that, I believe, is a whole lot more useful than being told to just “use common sense.” Now that you've gotten our practical advice for how to travel safely, I highly recommend our article on adapting to a seriously nerve-wracking situation... Checkpoints, Police Bribes & Shakedowns. Stuck in Peru, amidst the former president's attempted self-coup. Safe Traveler Gear?  Click below to check out some curated picks for making life easier when traveling with (and without) small children. Visit GEAR UP  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials Copyright © WS&T. All rights reserved.

Welcome to our 10-day dive into one of the most vibrant and biodiverse countries in the world! Whether you're chasing mountains, sipping world-class coffee, or embracing some beach time, this itinerary is designed with flexibility in mind. When Eve was in her backpacking days, her itineraries were loosely based on gut instinct and guidebook vibes – and they (almost) always worked out. But as parents, we know how important it is to have a plan. This guide blends structure with the freedom to customize, ensuring your family adventure hits all the right notes. If you're wondering whether Colombia is safe , when to go, how to rent a car, what the roads are like, or how to get around, check out our Colombia Travel Overview . Got more than 10 days to visit Colombia? Lucky you! Consider spending extra time on the Caribbean coast (hello, beach time!) – check out our flash trip guide to Cartagena or our road trip along the Caribbean Coast . Prefer to slow things down? Focus on one or two destinations, like Bogotá or the Zona Cafetera . For now, let’s dive into our favorite 10-day route through this incredible country. 10-Day Colombia Itinerary - Quick Peek Days 1–2: Bogotá (3 Nights) Day 3: Day Trip to Zipaquirá Optional Overnight in Villa de Leyva Days 4–6: Medellín (2 Nights) Optional Day Trip to Guatapé Days 6–9: Zona Cafetera (3 Nights) Day 10: Return to Bogotá (1 Night or Travel Home) Days 1–2: Bogotá (2 Nights) Welcome to Bogotá! The first thing you’ll notice in Bogotá – besides the sheer mountain backdrop – is the altitude. Sitting at 8,661 feet (2,640 meters) between the Río Bogotá and the Cerro de Monserrate mountain ridge, this city literally takes your breath away. WS&T Travel Tip:  The Compass app on your phone is a fun way to track altitude on the go! The next thing you’ll notice? The weather. Bogotá’s high-altitude location makes for wet, chilly days. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket – and maybe adjust your expectations if you’re dreaming of tropical climes. Though metro residents tend to be slightly more businesslike in their interactions than outside Bogotá, the city’s vibrant personality makes it well worth a couple days’ exploration. Day 1: Arrive and Settle In Most visitors fly into El Dorado International Airport, a clean and modern hub just 14 km (8.6 miles) from downtown. With only two terminals, it’s easy to navigate – even with a stroller and overtired kiddos in tow. Still, some adjustment time may be nice for jet lag and altitude. Getting Cash Money : We grab some Colombian Pesos from an airport ATM (best rates) or use the currency exchange counter if we’ve brought cash. WS&T Money Tip: Travel credit card for points. Our rec. And a card w/ fee reimbursement for the ATM. (Some Argentine ATMs charged $6-10 US, so thank you, Fidelity!) Getting to Your Hotel Taxi : Find the yellow Imperial Taxi booth in the arrivals hall. Fare: ~$40,000 COP ($9.25 USD). WS&T Money Tip: We always confirm the price upfront and check if they accept cards. Uber : Reliable and affordable. Double-check your pickup location in the app. Pickup is a short walk from the terminal tax stands. Didi : Another ride-hailing app that works well here. Car Rental : Unless you’re heading out of Bogotá right away, skip the immediate car rental – the city center and most points of interest are very walkable. Public Transport : Bogotá’s TransMilenio bus system is pretty dope (you can’t miss the distinctive red buses), but the airport route involves multiple transfers. Not ideal after a long flight solo or with kids. Download the TransMi app for route planning and purchase a rechargeable Tullave card at the kiosk in the airport arrival hall. Yeah, I said dope. We didn’t have a problem seat-belting our car seat into the Uber, but make sure you check that the driver has the rear seat belts accessible before loading up all your luggage. People tend to be lax about using rear seat belts in Colombia, so sometimes the driver needs to dig them out of the seat for you. If you do want to rent a car, proceed to the appropriate car rental desk. They’re incredibly helpful and will organize an easy shuttle to the rental lot. Here's our tips for renting a vehicle in Colombia. Where to Stay in Bogotá We recommend staying in La Candelaria , Bogotá’s oldest and most picturesque neighborhood. It’s packed with colorful colonial homes, good eateries, and artistic vibes. The neighborhood has great architecture and people-watching too. Most of the city’s main attractions are walkable from this neighborhood, though take the hills slowly as you adjust to the atlitude. Without kids, you can immerse yourself in nightlife central, Zona Rosa. Downtown itself can seem a bit seedy but is another option. Our Bogotá Hotel Recommendations: Hotel Casa Deco : We loved this art deco-themed hotel with a super central location and welcoming staff. The only downside was the big staircase, but the staff helped us with our luggage and allowed us to keep our stroller and car seat behind the front desk. Breakfast included.  WS&T Foodie Tip: The best “aromática”, Colombia’s signature spiced tea, is available in the lobby. We're not sure why... The Orchids : Boutique hotel w/ cozy touches and good location, breakfast included. Airbnb : Always a great option, especially if you prefer to cook or prepare kids’ meals while on the road. Lots of great choices in La Candelaria! Day 2: Explore Bogotá WS&T General Tips for Bogotá Altitude Acclimation : Take it slow on Day 1—hydrate and avoid strenuous activity. Stroller vs. Baby-Wearing : Bogotá’s cobblestones and hilly streets make strollers tricky. Baby-wearing is often easier. Weather : Layers are your best friend. A rain jacket is non-negotiable. With one full day in Bogotá, we recommend some key highlights: Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) : A dazzling collection of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts—over 55,000 pieces! The whole museum focuses on pre-Hispanic uses of gold for worship, adornment, tools, and everything in-between. If you walk to the museum, you’ll get to check out the slightly seedy but super lively and interesting city center along the way. Kids will love the shiny displays and interactive exhibits.   Plaza de Bolívar : The city’s grand central square, anchored by a statue of Simón Bolívar and surrounded by architectural gems. You'll want to learn more about the famous, complicated man whose name you’ll find everywhere in the region.    Catedral Primada de Colombia : A stunning colonial cathedral with rich history just off the central square.   Cementerio Central : Hop in an Uber or taxi to the north end of town, where Colombia’s main cemetery – dating from 1836 – holds an enthralling mix of tombs, monuments, and statues. Plus, it’s the perfect place to dodge impossible questions from your kids about life and death! (KIDDING).   Where to Eat in Bogotá Check out our cheat sheet on Colombian cuisine for a food-obsessed overview of the country's flavors, staples, and signature dishes. Bogotá’s food scene is as diverse as its climate. La Candelaria offers some excellent options: Dinner with Bolivar himself! La Puerta Falsa:  Just a block away from the Plaza de Bolivar, find this tightly packed institution selling the delicious (extremely large/heavy) classic Colombian tamales along with a range of other specialties. We got ours to-go, grabbed a delicious herbal aromático  (with or without rum) and enjoyed both al fresco.   Prudencia:  Delicious, relatively inexpensive set-course meals you can enjoy between 12pm-5pm on Wednesdays through Sundays. Everything made from scratch and delicious. Make a reservation on their website.   Sant Just:  Cozy French restaurant with great food and great prices.   If you or your kids have a sweet tooth, check out the dessert mecca called Crepes & Waffles. If you’re craving a taste of home (or dealing with picky eaters!) try La Hamurguesería.   Plaza de Mercado de Paloquemao:  This fruit market is off the beaten path and will require a special trip, but it is a fun place to explore with the kids in the morning and enjoy a traditional breakfast at one of the market stalls.   Restaurante Doña Elvira:  In the Palermo neighborhood, this old-school institution is simple but rich with Colombian culinary history.    Where Can I Eat Healthy Food in Bogotá? We know that especially when traveling with kids, sometimes your body needs a bit of richness recovery from traditional cuisine. At WS&T, we love trying local delicacies, but we also love mixing in some vegetables from time to time! Try Quinua y Amaranto  for fresh, vegetarian set lunches. The Chapinero neighborhood is home to many upscale restaurants serving Colombian and international cuisine. If you’re foodies, have older kids, or just want to explore, check out Eater’s guide to Bogota! Day 3: Zipaquirá Day Trip (or Overnight in Villa de Leyva) On the morning of Day 3, you’ll be feeling well-rested and totally adjusted to the altitude. Your kids will have slept peacefully for 12 straight hours, and you and your partner will have enjoyed a Club Colombia cerveza on the balcony and gazed into each other’s eyes in the shadow of the Cerro de Monserrate  before spooning all night. Or not. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can continue on to the colonial gem of Villa de Leyva  for an overnight stay. Or keep things simple and return to Bogotá for one more night before the next leg of your journey. Staying in Bogotá? Hit the road for one of Colombia’s most unique and fun sites: the Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral. The world’s only underground cathedral was carved out of an ancient salt mine active since the pre-Hispanic era. Salt (sal in Spanish) was actually the first currency in the region, hence the term for salary: “salario.”  Try the  90-minute guided tour, with a few add-on options. Consider the “ruta minero” where you and the kids can pretend to be miners for 30 minutes – more fun than it sounds! You can buy tickets online in advance. Kid-Friendly Details : Baby-wearing is the way to go – strollers aren’t allowed. But tread carefully. There are some strenuous portions of the walk. But it’s nice and dark, so if you’re lucky maybe baby will nap! Getting to Zipaquirá The Salt Cathedral is about 90 minutes (55 km) from Bogotá’s city center. You’ve got options: Hire a Driver : Make sure to arrange for your driver to wait for you during your tour and return you to Bogotá – maybe with a stop for lunch. Check out Viator or Mi Elegido VIP (note: Spanish-only website) to book drivers. Rent a Car : Check out our article for renting a car in Bogotá (and Colombia, at large) Public Transport : TransMilenio buses and regional trains can get you there, but the process involves multiple transfers. E took the bus in her backpacking days, but perhaps not ideal with kids in tow. WS&T Travel Tip : If you’re hiring a driver and planning to visit beautiful Villa de Leyva  afterward, book them for the full day. They can wait while you explore the cathedral and drive you to your next destination. Lunch Stop: Zipaquirá Town Zipaquirá itself is a charming town with colorful streets and a picturesque plaza. It’s the perfect place for a relaxed lunch after your Salt Cathedral tour. Keep an eye out for local specialties like ajiaco (a hearty soup with chicken, potatoes, and corn). If you stayed in Villa de Leyva, you’ll want to get back to Bogotá and head next to Medellín. If you just did a day trip, you’ll be able to catch a flight to Medellín a little earlier. Days 4–6: Medellín – The City of Eternal Spring Native paisa Botero's signature rotund sculptures Catch a short flight from Bogotá to Medellín today! We had our hotel arrange an easy and cheap transfer to the airport for us before our flight. For many people, Medellín is synonymous with the terrible violence associated with Escobar’s reign of terror – for good reason as Medellín for a time was the murder capital of the world.  We want to stress how incredible this city’s turnaround has been. After Escobar was killed and the cartel pushed out, Medellín’s most creative minds got together to conceive of a fresh start. Everywhere we got the sense that people are so happy to have their city back after living under siege for so long.  That’s not to say there aren’t still some parts of the city recovering, and of course there is widespread poverty. Check out our practical tips for staying safe(r ) wherever you travel. Suffice it to say, we felt safe and happy to wander around with AJ and explore Medellín’s many cultural offerings. It’s a truly special city and hopefully it will only continue to grow and thrive. The warm, spring-like weather year-round is a major bonus (pack light layers), and the city’s welcoming energy will leave a lasting impression on your family. Getting to Medellín Flying is the quickest and easiest way to reach Medellín from Bogotá. The flight takes about an hour, with budget-friendly options from Avianca, JetSmart, and Wingo. WS&T Travel Tip: Be very aware of the luggage (and seat selection) limitations on the “basic” fares. It’s much cheaper and easier to upgrade your fare to what you’ll actually need than to try and renegotiate at the airport. Main Airport : Most flights land at José María Córdova Airport, about 30–40 minutes from the city center. Smaller Airport : Some budget airlines, like EasyFly and Satena, operate out of Olaya Herrera Airport, much closer to downtown. Getting to Your Hotel from the Airport in Medellín : Taxi : Use the official white taxis with blue stripes. WS&T Money Tip:   Find out the price beforehand and ask if they take credit cards. Otherwise, make sure you have enough cash on hand. Uber/Didi : Reliable and convenient options for families. Car Rental : Available at both airports. From the main airport, head over to the international arrivals hall and turn left to find the car rental center. But if you’re heading into the city first, consider renting later to avoid parking headaches. The city’s metro transit system is fantastic. You can rent a car from a rental location in the city center (check out Enterprise, Sixt, or Localiza’s downtown locations) on your way out of town. We did a one-way rental, so we were able to return the car in Pereira before flying back to Bogotá, minimizing backtracking. Check out our article about all things car rentals in Colombia . WS&T Travel Tip: Don’t forget Pico y Placa. Congestion driving restrictions can prevent you from driving on certain days. Learn more in our article covering the subject .  Where to Stay in Medellín We recommend the El Poblado neighborhood, an upmarket spot which – while outside the main tourist attraction area downtown – makes for a pleasant, slightly exurban stay. Some areas are nightlife-central, but overall, it was a good spot for families.  Top Hotel Picks for Family Stays : Hotel Poblado Plaza : We enjoyed our stay at this fairly simple hotel in El Poblado. Great/easy parking and really yummy breakfast (so many veggies!).   Diez Hotel Categoria Colombia: Well-decorated, funky hotel with amenities like a spa, rooftop terrace, and multiple restaurants on site.   Airbnb Options : Plenty of family-friendly rentals are available in El Poblado, including options with kitchens and laundry facilities.   Getting Around Medellín If you have your own rental car, you can brave the traffic and roundabouts – it’s not bad, just takes patience and attention, like driving in any major city. If you’re not used to having thousands of motorcycles and scooters flow around you like speeding schools of metal fish, you may want to choose one of our other recommendations. Medellín’s public transportation system is one of the best in South America, with multiple ways to explore: Metro : Clean, efficient, and affordable. You’ll need a Cívica card, which can be purchased at metro stations. Keep cash on hand for the ticket counter clerk in case the machines aren’t working (a lesson we learned the hard way). The nearest ATM was in a mall five minutes away.   Metrocable (Cable Cars) : A highlight of the city, these aerial cable cars connect hillside neighborhoods to the metro system and offer breathtaking views.   Uber/Didi : Best for convenience and flexibility when traveling with kids.   What to Do in Medellín Medellín is packed with cultural attractions, unique neighborhoods, and family-friendly spots: City Center Highlights City Center: The city center holds the majority of the museums and churches to see in Medellín, while also being home to some truly sketchy streets. We drove down one in particular where suddenly the green, clean urban landscape turned into a scrap-metal den for the down-and-out. We live in LA, and honestly it felt fairly similar to streets around downtown Los Angeles and Skid Row. It was more jarring than anything else; people looked like they were doing their best to get by and not trying to bother anyone. Through the middle of this chaotic scene, we also saw a well-dressed woman walking her pristinely groomed fluffy dog. So, keep your wits about you (and maybe take a different street if you’re walking) but don’t stress too much. When you arrive, we recommend starting your mini-tour at the Plaza Botero . Medellín (and indeed, much of Colombia) is very proud of Fernando Botero, the sculptor and painter whose very distinctive rotund subjects are unmistakable. In fact, you’ve most likely seen his work before even if you didn’t realize it. Think very chubby children and notables, very chubby dogs and cats, very chubby fruit, very chubby everything. Strange fellow, but quite likeable! Plaza Botero : Home to 23 oversized bronze sculptures by Fernando Botero, gifted to his hometown.   Museo de Antioquia : Adjacent to the plaza, a total unsung gem of a museum. We loved its mix of international art, lesser-known Botero works, and modern exhibits. It’s super well-curated, and all the works are displayed in an airy Art Deco building that’s a work of art itself. Grab a latté and a pastry in the cute coffee shop on the bottom floor before you leave.   Nearby: Ermita de la Veracruz, the Catedral Metropolitana  (built with 1.2 million bricks), the Parque Berrío , the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria , and the Parque San Antonio .   A Bit North of City Center (but well worth it): Jardín Botánico : An oasis amid the concrete jungle, the lush Jardín Botánico which boasts a major collection of plants and orchids in particular. Note: check out our recommended books ; there’s a great section in Magdelena about this spot. If you’re looking for something toddler or kid-friendly, check out the very fun, interactive Parque Explora  nearby.   Cable Cars and Comuna 13 Medellín’s “metrocable” or cable car system is rightly praised as one of the city’s great, new innovations. The cable car system connects the populous hillside barrios  with the main city, linking people to the workforce who were previously cut off by geography. Cable Cars : Ride the K and J lines to see the city from above.   Comuna 13 Tour : Once one of Medellín’s most dangerous neighborhoods, Comuna 13 is now a vibrant hub of street art and community pride. Join a local-guided tour to learn about its inspiring transformation.   Parque Arví : This nature reserve is located at the very end of the long metrocable  L line, and honestly the breathtaking journey is more than half the fun. How to Get to Parque Arví We took the metro from the Poblado station to Acevedo, then took the metrocable  K line three stops to Santo Domingo, where we finally caught the L line. You ride this all the way through the communas  and over an incongruous, beautiful forest to the end of the line: Parque Arví. Before going, we read that some visitors find the park a little underwhelming and it’s true; this isn’t the most incredible nature reserve you’ll ever visit. But to us, that was beside the point. The journey was so unique and fun, and we loved how much pride the staff took in the Arví. All of the nature walks were kid-friendly, and there were two different spots to get drinks and lunch (we had a really good hamburger). All in all, a unique and different way to explore the city! Additional Family-Friendly Sites in Medellín Parque Explora : An interactive science park with an aquarium and hands-on exhibits, perfect for kids. Pueblito Paisa : A charming replica of a traditional Antioquian village with stunning city views. Where to Eat in Medellín In El Poblado Pergamino Café:  Good coffee and Colombian twists on breakfast and brunch classics. Ajiacos y Mondongos:  Get your traditional feasting on at this cheap, high-quality spot. Mondongo  is tripe soup… some love it, some hate it. If you’re a mondongo  lover, you’ve got to visit Mondongo’s restaurant – for obvious reasons. Il Forno:  Satisfy your Italian craving with nice pizza and pasta. Carmen:  If you can manage with the kids, this upscale restaurant is innovative and delicious. We’re a little traumatized by it because it was the site of AJ’s biggest meltdown to date, but the food was still yummy! Book ahead.  Náufrago Bar:  This rooftop bar boasts delicious, creative cocktails and a beautiful view of the city. We came up early with AJ to enjoy a drink and watch the sun set before the cool kids arrived. S ambombi Bistro Local: Gorgeous and creative Colombian cuisine. Book ahead. La Chagra:  Creative pick focusing on indigenous ingredients and traditional recipes reimagined for a modern city. WS&T Bratpacker Tip: Early dinners are less stressful with kids! Check out our deep dive into navigating restaurants with fussy kids. In the City Center Hacienda Junín : Great place to try classic Colombian dishes in a relaxed environment. Beware the stairs for strollers, but the staff kindly helps out! Hatoviejo : Another excellent option offering a similar respite from the hubbub of the center.    WS&T Healthier Food Picks: Try Hummus Fusión  for Mediterranean or Azai Praia Lovers  via Primavera for gluten free/vegan options. Optional Add-On Trip: Guatapé (Click to Expand!) Optional Add-On Trip: Guatapé If you have extra time, consider a day trip to Guatapé , a colorful lakeside town about 2 hours from Medellín. Guatapé is a gem of a small town located about two hours from Medellín. You can either drive your rental car or you can easily organize transport from your hotel or find a driver service (e.g. on Viator). It’s a popular day-trip, so getting there should be straightforward. Keep in mind that it can get crowded on weekends. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can take a 2-hour bus from Medellín’s north station. Guatapé looks like a picture postcard (that’s Olde English for Insta-worthy) with its colorfully painted “ zócalos ” or house panels. Wandering the town will provide no shortage of lovely views and picture spots. Check out the beautiful central Parque Principal, then head east on the Calle del Comercio (Calle 31). You’ll take the stairs across from #29-9 to the Plazoleta de los Zócalos and enjoy the painted houses all the way to the waterfront. Calle de Recuerdo (Carretera 28) is also a good street to walk down. The Lake:  You can take a 3-hour tour of the lake (afternoons during the week, anytime on weekends) by heading to the waterfront, where there will be a range of companies hawking their cruises. Lake View Hostel also offers a lake tour with a stop at the mostly-submerged El Peñon church.  The Rock:  The 200-meter Piedra del Peñol towers over Guatapé. It’s a wild sight from the ground, but the adventuresome can climb 649 stairs for an incredible all-around view of the city. If you decide to wear baby up the Rock, you’re a rock… star. Healthy, delicious food options are plentiful in this town: La Fogata, Guatacrep’,  and Pizzeria de Luigi are some great choices. Highlights : Piedra del Peñol : Climb the 649 steps of this massive rock for jaw-dropping views. The Town : Known for its vibrant zócalos (decorative house panels) and charming streets. The Lake : Take a boat tour to see the submerged El Peñon church. What’s Next? On Day 6, you’ll leave from Medellín and head to the stunning Zona Cafetera, Colombia’s coffee-growing heartland. Days 6–9: Zona Cafetera – Colombia’s Coffee Triangle Welcome to the Zona Cafetera , a lush, green paradise and Colombia’s “Coffee Triangle,” surrounding the towns of Manizales, Pereira, and Salento where the majority of Colombia’s famous coffee is grown. The area has a great mix of outdoor activities, delicious food (hello trout!), and generally excellent vibes.  Getting to the Zona Cafetera from Medellín For travelers seeking flexibility and freedom, renting a car in Medellín is an excellent way to explore Colombia’s famed coffee region. Be sure to check out our comprehensive guide to renting a car in Colombia  for tips on driving regulations, insurance options, and more. You can pick up your rental right at the airport or opt for a convenient city-center location. We chose a one-way rental ourselves, dropping the car off in Pereira before catching a flight back to Bogotá—an easy way to avoid unnecessary backtracking. Depending on your final destination, the drive from Medellín to the Zona Cafetera can take several hours. Manizales is about four hours from El Poblado, while Salento is roughly five. Road conditions are generally good, with newly constructed expressways helping you navigate the mountainous terrain with ease. When we last drove in December 2024, a few temporary detours did funnel us onto single-lane roads, but the ongoing improvements suggest an even smoother ride in the very near future. If you prefer not to drive, there are frequent flights from Medellín to Pereira, Armenia, or Manizales, the three main cities in the region. Where to Stay in Zona Cafetera We highly recommend finding a coffee finca to either visit or spend the night. We spent the night at the lovely Hacienda Venecia , a beautiful spot with incredible plant and bird life and a host of different activities. You pay a little extra to include your meals (many of these fincas are far from any other food options) and you can choose from a range of different activities and tours around the property, like coffee tours and tastings (with the option to have the tours in English). Fun for kids and non-coffee drinkers too.  Tours explore the country’s history and cultivation of premium coffee, demonstrate the harvest process, and ultimately culminate in a brewing experience. You don’t have to be an adult to enjoy the beautiful nature in which these gorgeous places are nestled. Hacienda Venecia (Outside Manizales) : A stunning coffee farm with guided tours, birdwatching, and delicious communal meal events. The perfect mix of relaxation and education!   Hacienda Guayabal (South Chinchiná) : A smaller coffee farm offering hands-on tours and rustic charm.   Hotel el Ocaso (Salento) : A boutique option with breathtaking nature views and family-friendly amenities.   Another worthy side trip is the Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados . Check out Páramo Trek or Adeguidas Caldas  for information on organizing a guide. Explore Salento and the Valle de Cocora Salento is a small, walkable, and colorful town that feels like it’s been plucked straight from a storybook and perched on a hilltop. Wander through the vibrant streets, enjoy trout cooked a dozen ways (yes, a dozen), and take in the mountain views. Willy Jeeps : Hop into one of the iconic jeeps in Salento’s main plaza for fun rides all over the region.   Valle de Cocora Hike : This breathtaking valley is home to Colombia’s national tree, the towering wax palm. Choose between the shorter 3-mile mirador hike or the full 8.5-mile loop (detailed tips below) that’s not for the faint of heart. Where to Stay in Salento Stay within walking distance of the plaza and you can’t go wrong. We stayed at this very cool Airbnb right at the edge of town – and a block from the best chocolate  T thinks he’s ever had at the Sueño de Fresas – where we got beautiful, green mountain views while still being in the city. I mean, didja ever? We were also in Salento during Halloween and let me tell you – watching the costumed local kids trick or treat around town was just about the cutest thing ever.  Everything You Need to Know about the Valle de Cocora Hike The biggest attraction near Salento, Valle de Cocora is located about a 30-minute picturesque drive from the village. The Valle is the home of the epically tall and skinny wax palms – and the inspiration for the valley in Disney’s Encanto .  Whether you opt for a shorter “mirador” hike or tackle the full loop, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Keep in mind that this region sits at high altitude—between 8,500 to 9,300 feet (2,600–2,800 m)—so pace yourself if you’re not used to hiking in thinner air. The long hike is not for the faint of heart  – the combination of distance, elevation, one-person-at-a-time cable bridges, occasional muddy spots, and altitude can be demanding. If you're up for it, check out our super detailed guide to everything you need to know about the Valle de Cocora hike!   If you read that and think, "NO WAY ARE WE DOING THAT HIKE. ARE YOU CRAZY? WHAT ELSE CAN WE DO?" Here are some other options: Nature Reserves and Bird-watching Zona Cafetera is a haven for nature lovers. Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados : A stunning national park featuring snow-capped peaks and lush páramo landscapes. Guided tours are a must for safety. Reserva Río Blanco (Manizales) : Ideal for birdwatching, with a chance to spot toucans, hummingbirds, and more. Top Eats in Salento: The region’s culinary offerings are just as impressive as its landscapes. Trout is the local specialty, often served with fried plantains and rice. Los Amigos : Simple but delicious trout dishes. Bernabé : A cozy spot with an eclectic menu and great coffee. La Eliana : Curry and international dishes with a Colombian twist. Optional Adventure: Hot Springs in Santa Rosa de Cabal If you’re looking to unwind, visit the cloudy Termales  thermal hot springs in Santa Rosa de Cabal . Surrounded by a towering waterfall and lush greenery, it’s about 14km from Pereira. What’s Next? On Day 10, you’ll head back to Bogotá, returning the rental car in Pereira and catching a short flight. Or, if you’re lucky enough to have extra time, consider extending your trip to Cartagena or the Caribbean Coast . Day 10: Return to Bogotá – The Last Hurrah Your adventure through Colombia is coming to a close, and it’s time to head back to Bogotá. Whether you’re catching an international flight or enjoying one last night in the capital, this final leg ties everything together. Getting Back to Bogotá If you’ve been exploring the Zona Cafetera, the easiest way back to Bogotá is by air. Flights : Pereira, Armenia, and Manizales all have regular flights to Bogotá. Pereira typically offers the most options. Car Rental Drop-Off : If you rented a car, most agencies allow you to return it at the airport for convenience. They even sent a video showing the return, in case you need it. Returning a car in Pereira is incredibly easy, but not the experience you might be used to. Instead of a big rental lot, you’re driving right up to the airport terminal and parking at the curb. Be sure to have a contact number if you return on a Sunday because the rental agencies will likely be minimally staffed. WS&T Travel Tip : Check the baggage policies for your flight. Many budget airlines in Colombia (e.g., Wingo, JetSmart) have strict limits on carry-ons and checked luggage, so it’s often worth upgrading to a more flexible fare. Wanna Make 10 Days Go Even More Smoothly? Click below to check out some curated picks for making life easier when traveling with (and without) small children. Visit GEAR UP  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials Travel fans? Not just for babies. Push pins, pics, tokens OR IT DIDN'T HAPPEN! Copyright © WS&T. All rights reserved.

What to pack/how to pack it? So many questions when you first start traveling with your kids. It's really intimidating, especially before the very first flight. (Looking for Part 1? ) Here in this post, we'll answer some of the most burning queries, like: Do I need to travel with my baby's birth certificate? What is gate checking? Can I gate check my stroller and car seat? Can I bring breastmilk or formula on the plane? How do I breastfeed while traveling? How do I formula-feed while traveling? What do I do when my baby cries on the plane? What the heck is an airplane bassinet? Should my kid sit on my lap or get their own seat? What do I do if my child has jetlag? How do I handle altitude with kids? How do I give my baby a bath on the road? Do I need to travel with my baby’s birth certificate? Most airlines say they “may” check your baby’s birth certificate. We have never actually had anyone look at it, but we always have a copy of her birth certificate with our travel documents – just in case. This is especially important if you’re traveling alone with your child. What are the different airlines’ policies for babies on board?  While there’s a general standard for how airlines treat babies, each one is a little quirky. And honestly, your experience can even vary depending on who’s working the front desk or the gate. Generally, you’re allowed to gate check one item per adult (i.e. stroller + car seat), and often (but not always) you’re allowed to bring one additional carry-on bag for your baby. Every airline has an FAQ page about their exact baby and child policies, so check that out before you fly. What is gate checking? The vast majority of airlines (and every American domestic flight we’ve taken) allow you to “gate check” one item per ticketed adult. So, when my husband and I are traveling together with our child, we’re able to gate check the stroller and the car seat.   After you’ve carried or worn your baby through security, the next step is getting special gate check tags from the gate agent. You’ll typically need to present your ID and boarding pass.   We always attempt to get these tags in advance, and usually the gate agent will give them to you upon request. However, the procedure often differs by airline and even seems to change arbitrarily airport to airport. Sometimes you’ll even get your tags while boarding. Sometimes the gate agent wants to see the bags. Sometimes they hand out gate tags like M&Ms.   Then, while boarding you deposit your tagged items at the end of the jet bridge, just before you step onto the plane. The luggage handlers will put them in a special spot under the plane, and when you land, they will be returned to you in the same place on the jet bridge – so hang out immediately after deplaning until your items arrive.   Every so often, internationally, they will gate check your stroller + car seat and the items will still end up at baggage claim (often in the mysterious oversized area). It’s unlikely, and if it does happen, it will probably only occur on small planes. But it’s still a bit frustrating when you’re left standing at the door of the plane looking like a lost puppy.   You might want to consider putting AirTags or similar in your gate checked or regular checked items.   What if I check my stroller or car seat like regular luggage? You may wind up checking your stroller or car seat instead of gate checking either because your stroller exceeds the weight limit (usually 20 lbs), you have too many bags and don’t feel like juggling, or you’re flying an airline that doesn’t do gate checking (looking at you Copa Airlines). In that case, your items will usually emerge in the oversized area, but double check with the check-in agent when you drop off your bags to verify. What’s it like breastfeeding while traveling?  I exclusively breastfed my baby until 9 months, then we switched over to formula until she turned 1. If you breastfeed, there are some major advantages while you’re traveling: o   It’s free! o   No need to worry about sterilizing bottles or packing enough formula. o   It can be soothing on the plane. Your comfort with breastfeeding while traveling will probably mirror your comfort with it at home. I’ve never been a “whip-my-nips-out” gal, so I usually use my feeding shawl, though very quickly I started choosing a window seat and foregoing the cover while feeding on the plane. It’s just too much to juggle in a small seat.   Many people prefer an aisle seat for easier access, but it comes with a trade-off. Small babies can sit/lie comfortably in your lap or a baby carrier, but once they get bigger, I worry about a wayward drink cart or errant elbows sneaking up on us.   While still at the airport, I usually just find an empty gate to use, or I use my shawl. Most airports have nursing rooms as well, but I’ve never actually used one.   My breastfeeding tips: 1.     Don’t forget to wear your breastfeeding-friendly shirt & nursing bra… 2.     It’s just about you and your baby – don’t worry about anyone else. 3.     (Sadly) I limit my morning coffee so I don’t have to go pee as much. Feeding on takeoff and landing is the biggest tip to help your babe’s ears adjust to the altitude changes. We were lucky that AJ never seemed to mind takeoff or landing; I often got the timing wrong, so I was feeding her before or after takeoff. As long as she had her pacifier in, she didn’t make a peep. And if she was asleep during takeoff or landing, I just let her be. WS&T Travel Tip: After a long flight, it’s easy to forget that landing isn’t the end –  sometimes you’ll wait another 10–20 minutes before deplaning. And remember, your mood often rubs off on your little one. If your baby is calm, stay seated and relaxed until the rows just ahead of you start moving. One of the only real meltdowns we’ve had with AJ happened when we jumped the gun and tried to stand up too soon! While traveling, yet another reason we love road-tripping is that there’s always a cozy spot to feed AJ – the backseat of the car! It is also great timing for giving her and everyone else a break from the car seat and to stretch our legs. Otherwise, I just keep my shawl with me and get comfortable feeding her in some odd locations. How about formula feeding while traveling? Formula feeding on the go can be a bit trickier, but here are several (so many!) options to choose from – and you’ll likely find your own, creative hybrid solution.   1.     Mix your bottles after security or on the plane: You can purchase an inexpensive formula dispenser  for your powdered formula, then purchase a large bottle of water inside the airport. Most newsstands carry unrefrigerated water so the bottle is less cold for baby. TSA may swab your formula dispenser, but let them know that they can’t open it or it might contaminate the powder. If you prefer hot water, you can bring a very handy heatable thermos, which recharges easily. We love our MomCozy water (or milk) heater. On the plane, you can ask the flight attendants for hot or bottled water anytime. 2.     TSA should allow you to bring your own thermos of water through security if you inform them that it’s part of your baby feeding kit. 3.     Instead of bringing a formula dispenser, you can pre-scoop the formula into your sterilized bottles for easy mixing, or just bring the whole formula container. 4.     You can premix several bottles at home, then bring the bottles in a cooler with an ice pack with you. Again, TSA may try to open the pre-made bottles, so be prepared to let them know that they’re not able to open them. In fact, it’s their own policy not to open the pre-made bottles. 5.     An extra safe, very easy but pricier option is to purchase ready-to-feed, pre-made formula (with a pop top). We recommend doing a little research on formula in your destination first, but in general you can bring enough formula for a few days and then purchase more in-country. If My Baby Eats Solids, What Snacks or Food Should I Bring on the Plane? Pouches, please! Once your baby is on solids, snacks become both a necessity and a distraction tool. Go for: Pouches and purees Teether crackers Bananas Puffs or cereal Don’t forget wipes. Lots and lots of wipes. Which leads us to our next topic. Can I bring formula, baby food, or breast milk on the plane? From the TSA Website: Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag. Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) are considered medically necessary liquids. This also applies to breast milk and formula cooling accessories, such as ice packs, freezer packs, and gel packs (regardless of presence of breast milk). Your child or infant does not need to be present or traveling with you to bring breast milk, formula and/or related supplies. Inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process that you are carrying formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in excess of 3.4 ounces. Remove these items from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from your other belongings. TSA officers may need to test the liquids for explosives or concealed prohibited items. It is recommended that formula and breast milk be transported in clear, translucent bottles and not plastic bags or pouches. Ice packs, freezer packs, frozen gel packs and other accessories required to cool formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) – regardless of the presence of breast milk – are also allowed in carry-ons, along with liquid-filled teethers. If these items are partially frozen or slushy, they are subject to the same screening as described above. When Should We Board the Plane? Most airlines will announce that families with small children can pre-board, and some even indicate on your boarding pass that you’re eligible for pre-boarding. Some, cough Delta cough don’t always do pre-boarding and make you board with your group.   If we’re at all concerned about overhead bin space, we pre-board when possible. The journey from the boarding gate to the plane is the most annoying because Trev has to lug the stroller and car seat to the gate check area, but once those items are deposited it’s smooth sailing. If we’re not worried about space, we often forego pre-boarding and board with our group to minimize the time that AJ is cooped up in the plane. It’s really down to your personal preference. Airline Takeoff & Landing Policy To the best of my knowledge, it's because of an extremely outdated FAA rule that you are required to physically hold your baby (i.e., not in a carrier) during takeoff and landing. Given how secure modern carriers are, this feels pretty silly – especially if you’ve just gotten your baby to sleep. Plus, having my hands free in an emergency... isn’t that safer? Interestingly, most airlines seem to agree this rule is outmoded. In our experience, only a few have occasionally strictly enforced it. The first time it happened, we waited until the very last minute – hoping to avoid being asked to remove AJ from her carrier – but no such luck. So far, Spirit and American are the most consistent about requiring it. If you have a lap infant, some airlines require and will provide a seat belt extender that attaches to your seat belt and fits around the baby. Again, with today's baby carriers it can feel silly, but you'll occasionally have to humor your well-meaning flight attendant by affixing the thing. Assuming AJ is asleep, we can usually fit this thing without waking her. But it's airplane origami, to be sure. What Do I Do When My Baby Cries on the Plane? Deep. Breaths. It can feel like the world is caving in when your baby starts screaming on the plane. I get so stressed. The key is to stay (or project) calm, take deep breaths, and remind yourself: It’s not the end of the world. People are way more understanding than you think. If all else fails, a walk down the aisle can work wonders. (except during takeoff/landing) If AJ is more than just fussy, I think my fellow passengers are more understanding when they can see me trying to soothe her. Safety permitting, sometimes that can mean rising in place – with a knee on my seat – to bounce her. When in doubt, hand her off to your partner so he can look like the bad parent (JK)… or try a feed. Sometimes you just have to call upon ancient deities, make soothing sounds, and pat gently ‘til the moment passes. Which it will. I promise. Snacks and Toys Are Your Allies Once your baby starts solids, snacks become your best distraction tool. Think teether crackers , puffs , bananas, or whatever your kid loves most (bonus points for minimal mess). And toys ? Bring a mix of old favorites and shiny new distractions for novelty. Think small if you’re committed to packing light. See below for some of our faves! WS&T Tip: Avoid anything with sound effects unless you have a fetish for dirty looks from fellow passengers. How Do I Change My Baby’s Diaper on a Flight? Very carefully – hah! It’s a tight squeeze, but planes do have fold-down changing tables in the bathrooms, so just make sure to keep a hand on your baby at all times. And make sure you wait until there’s no turbulence. It’s become commonplace for pilots to be aware and notify passengers of turbulence 5-10 minutes in advance. I also suggest having what T and I call our “ satellite diaper bag ” – this small zipper bag contains a foldup changing pad , two diapers, travel-sized wipes, a small tube of diaper rash cream , and an quick-to-change magnetic onesie (just in case) . Just the essentials for quick changes in a tight space. Sometimes I’m tempted to change AJ in the seat if I know it’s only wet, but unless it’s just T and me in a row, it’s just not good manners. How Do I Keep My Baby Entertained on a Flight? The "newborn stage" is great because they really don’t need to be entertained and tend to be much better sleepers. The whole plane is a giant white noise machine – it’s kind of awesome.   Once they get older, you’ll need to pack some games and toys to keep them entertained. Though, truth be told, AJ’s favorite activity right now is forcing everyone on the plane to make eye contact with her so she can smile. She’s a ham!   For toys, I recommend bringing some of your baby’s favorite items, as well as a few newer toys to introduce for the novelties. Once they get closer to 1, you can try suction spinners that stick to the window, light-up toys (though no sounds of course), and a couple of textured books . AJ also loves her Indestructibles books. They are super thin, and just about as compact as anything you can squeeze into a diaper bag. AJ can and will chew these rip proof, waterproof, nontoxic skinny books for ages before getting bored. Parents swear by painter’s tape or washi tape which your kid can pull off of the tray table or window. Velcro seems to be a big hit too! As you probably know, babies can make toys out of just about any household object.   Once they’re older, if you’re a low-screen-time family, consider making travel days a “special occasion” exception.   The biggest lesson I had to learn was that my days of spending the flight reading a book or watching a movie are over. Once I accepted that we’re pretty much on kid-duty, the entertainment moments became easier.   ...And pray for sleep when you can finally catch that rom-com you saved for the flight. Oh, who am I kidding? The moment that kid is out, I’m right behind her.  ... “GREETINGS FROM THE FLIGHT DECK, LADIES & GENTLEMEN…” Noooo! What’s the Deal with the Airplane Baby Bassinet? Ah the mythic bulkhead bassinet. On many long-haul, international flights, airlines offer a baby bassinet in certain bulkhead seats. This is a sky cot or small bed that attaches to the wall in front of a bulkhead seat.   If you secure one, your baby will be able to sleep in a comfy, regular position, and you’ll be able to actually move during your 12-hour journey.   Win-win.   But! Bassinet seats are a bit of a unicorn. They are first-come, first-serve and not always available on some carriers.   What is a Bulkhead Seat? This means the first row in economy class. This is the only spot where bassinet seats are offered. You also get extra legroom, though you’ll need to store your personal bags in the overhead compartment during takeoff and landing.   Also, your armrest will likely be fixed in place because the entertainment system will be folded up inside it.   How Do I Book a Bassinet Seat for My Baby? When you’re preparing to book your flight, check the specific airline’s policies about bassinet seats. In general, you need to select the bulkhead seats (some even have a little baby icon, indicating where bassinet seats are offered).   Then, in an old-school turn of events, you need to call the airline’s customer service and request a bassinet. If you want to increase your odds and also experience what our ancestors went through, you can book the flight over the phone to make sure you can request the bassinet prior to purchasing the flight.   You may also want to call again a couple of weeks before flying to confirm that your bassinet request is in the system.   Do Bassinets Cost More? Bassinets themselves should be free, though bulkhead seats are almost always more expensive than other seats.   What is the Weight Limit for Bassinet Seats? My husband says the bassinets look so cozy, he’s been tempted to verify the upper weight limit. But in general, the bassinet weight limit is 22-25 lbs. Check each carrier for exact specs. Lap Infant vs. Own Seat? Airlines allow you to fly with your baby as a “lap infant” until the age of two. There’s a hot debate on the internet about whether you can fly with your baby on your lap during their 2nd birthday (hah!) or whether you can try and cheat the system for a few months. At WS&T, we recommend sticking with the rules despite the expense; you don’t want to be called out and have your trip interrupted or be forced to buy a last-minute ticket. Rumor has it, flying with a two-year-old in your lap is HARD.   That being said, I plan to keep AJ on my lap until her 2nd birthday or as long as we can stand it, if the result is some savings.   Others disagree with that approach for safety reasons (the FAA says that having a child in an approved restraint system is the safest way to fly) or have a particularly large or squirmy child and want to purchase an extra seat. Of course, if you’re traveling with two parents and a kid, having a whole row would be extra nice.   If you want to purchase a seat for your under-2 or if you need  to purchase a seat for your over-2, here are the options:   1.     You can have your child fly in an FAA-approved car seat. Your child should be in a rear-facing car seat until they turn two, then they can turn around. And it's still recommended on long flights that you observe the 2-hour rule, giving your little one a break from the car seat every two hours or less.   Which car seats are FAA-approved? All car seats and travel systems we’ve discussed so far are FAA-approved for use on planes: ·       Doona Car Seat and Stroller System ·       Evenflo Shyft DualRide ·       COSCO Scenera NEXT   Check your specific car seat, but most common seats are approved for use on planes.   My Baby Hates the Car Seat. I Don’t Want to Strap Them in for that Many Hours. What Else Can I Do?  Most families don’t end up using a car seat on the plane. It’s too confining. Too many hours to keep them strapped in.   One great solution is called the CARES Harness .   This is the only FAA-approved travel harness, and a fan-favorite among many traveling parents. It’s a simple install and can be used in any window seat or middle seat on a plane. Kids can use the CARES Harness starting at 1-year-old, up to 44 lbs. Keep in mind that the harness works like a super-seatbelt and thus is forward-facing only.   What about inflatable kid’s beds? Inflatable kid’s beds like the Flyaway Kid’s Bed are rarely allowed on planes and never during takeoff and landing. Some flight crews may let you use them in the window seat, but you will likely not be permitted, so get carrier confirmation before your trip. British Airways is a notable exception, having just approved the specific use of the Flyaway Kid's Bed brand.   Bring them a little pillow (try an inflatable one to save space) and pop your kid’s legs on your lap. Okay, we made it to our destination. Now how do we handle actually traveling with a kid? How Do I Deal with Kids Jet Lag AKA When Your Baby Thinks 2 AM is Party Time? Jet lag can be as un-fun for kids as it is for adults, especially if everyone’s schedules are slightly off… it can feel like you’re all going crazy. Make sure you build in some adjustment time if you’re going somewhere with a major time change. Take it easy on yourself and your kids, and don’t over plan in those first few days. We decided that our first few travel destinations with AJ would be within three hours of our home time zone, so her adjustment period was minimal. She went to sleep a little bit later for a few days, then worked it out.   Here are a few tips to make the rocky first few days a little easier: 1. Light and Dark Are Your Friends Your baby’s circadian rhythm is like an onboard clock – reset it with sunlight and darkness. Get outside during the day to soak up natural light and dim things down in the evening to help them wind down. 2. Stay Hydrated Stay hydrated! Seriously, I’m pretty sure that’s the solution for everything. Water is magic for jet lag recovery. Keep your baby hydrated (especially if you’re breastfeeding), and make sure you’re sipping, too. Bonus: staying hydrated also helps with altitude adjustments if you’re traveling to higher elevations. 3. Let’s Get Physical Try to do physical activities on that first day. Tired toddlers = happy parents. 4. Gradual Adjustments Some parents swear by shifting bedtime slightly in the days leading up to a trip. If that sounds like too much planning (hi, that’s me), don’t sweat it – babies adapt faster than we do. 5. Nap Like a Champion Let your baby nap during the day but try not to overdo it. Great naps during the day often result in better night sleep. The sweet spot is enough rest to prevent meltdowns, but not so much that nighttime sleep is sabotaged.  Classic, annoying-but-probably-accurate parenting advice: thread the needle! 6. Lean Into the Chaos Sometimes, no matter what you do, your baby will wake up at odd hours. Instead of fighting it, embrace it! Have a middle-of-the-night dance party or cuddle session. The adjustment will come with time. How Do I Deal with High-Altitude Destinations for a Kid? Heading to a high-altitude destination, like Bogotá, means you and your family may need extra time to get used to the thinner air. At higher elevations, oxygen is less plentiful, which can lead to shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue. We were lucky our older child, AJ, handled the altitude like a champ, but my partner T and I had to take it slow. We also anticipate our baby might feel the effects as she grows older. Here are a few tips to help you and your family acclimate safely: Take It Slow If you’re flying directly into a high-altitude city, plan a couple of easygoing days at the start of your trip. This rest period can also help with jet lag. And expect to literally move at a slower pace while your body adjusts—no shame in strolling around town! Stay Hydrated Keep up your fluid intake, especially if you’re breastfeeding (you may need to feed your baby more frequently, so they stay hydrated, too). Get Plenty of Sleep (When You Can) Altitude, jet lag, and a baby’s unpredictable nap schedule can combine to wear you out – so grab all the shut-eye you can. Disclaimer:  I’m clearly not a medical professional – just sharing what worked for us. Talk to a doctor if you’re concerned about altitude sickness. Should anyone in your family have a severe reaction to the altitude, here’s what to do: Consult Your Doctor in Advance  about precautions or prescription meds. Seek Medical Attention Immediately  if symptoms become serious. Descend to Lower Elevation  if possible, as this is often the quickest way to feel better. Bathing Baby on the Road We don't get to bring that handy baby tub while traveling, and depending on which exotic places your adventures take you to, one often encounters more shower types than species of birds. Sometimes a good old-fashioned sponge bath can do the trick. But failing that, we'll often hold AJ while standing under the water. When concerned about a slippery baby, cradling her with a small towel can do the trick. Or, as an added precaution, we'll occasionally drape a small towel on the floor of the shower and sit on it. Got another method, or something you'd like to add to our planning guide? We'd love your tips in the comments. Our Favorite Gear for Kid & Baby Travel?   Click below to check out some curated picks for making life easier when traveling with (and without) small children. Visit GEAR UP  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials Copyright © WS&T. All rights reserved.

We’ll admit it: flight search results first gave us the idea to go to the Azores! We were planning a trip to Portugal, and E spotted a great flight deal on Azores Airlines. En route to Lisbon, the flight had a stop in Sao Miguel, the largest island in the Azores. We were intrigued! After doing some research, we decided to book the two trip legs separately, giving us a glorious 4-day stopover in Sao Miguel. Check out our itinerary here ! As we were planning our trip, we found scattered information about the Azores, but no one site that gave us a full guide to the Azores. So we put this together to answer all your questions (which were once our own questions)! Drop us a line if there's anything we should add. The Azores are a perfect WS&T destination: less about luxury travel or high-energy nightlife, and much more about soaking in nature and culture. It's so beautiful! And there are just enough activities to keep you happy for however long you choose to spend there, without feeling overwhelming. Your Essential Guide to the Azores Index Jump To: What Are the Azores? What Are the Different Islands in the Azores? When is the Best Time to Visit the Azores? What is the Best Time to See Whales in the Azores? Can I Travel to the Azores on a Budget? What Language Do They Speak in the Azores? Can I Get By with English in the Azores? What Are Some Basic Words and Phrases in Portuguese? How Do You Travel Between the Azores Islands? Is It Necessary to Rent a Car in the Azores? What is There to Do in the Azores? What Should I Eat in the Azores? So, What Are the Azores? Touching down in the middle of the North Atlantic The Azores are an oasis in the middle of the North Atlantic. Located about 1000 miles west of Lisbon, they’re even more remote than Hawaii, the Galapagos Islands, and Iceland. Looking out from any of the many jaw-dropping viewpoints, you truly feel like you’re in the middle of the ocean. The archipelago is made up of nine volcanic islands, which sprung from the lava eruptions beneath the ocean floor. Lush with greenery, dramatic cliffs, crater lakes, and hot springs, the islands are gorgeous and tranquil. There are tons of opportunities for outdoor activities ranging from very adventuresome to quietly contemplative, as well as whales to watch, hot springs to soak in, and tea to sip – Europe’s only tea plantations are located here. The islands have invested heavily in sustainable eco-tourism and conservation of their many natural resources. Also, there are so many nice cows everywhere! In fact, cows outnumber people on several of the islands. Moo, amirite? The Portuguese rollin' up during the Age of Exploration The Azores were uninhabited when they were discovered by Portuguese navigators around 1427, and they were quickly claimed by Portugal and settled by Prince Henry the Navigator. Colonists from mainland Portugal and Flanders brought agriculture, livestock, and a deep-rooted seafaring culture. Because of their location, the Azores became a vital stop for ships during the golden age of exploration and transatlantic trade. Over the centuries, they hosted everything from pirates to exiled nobles—and even rumors of lost civilizations (some believed the islands were the remnants of Atlantis). Today, the Azores are an autonomous region of Portugal, but with a distinct identity shaped by lava, legends, and life at sea. As we explored the Azores, we were surprised to see how new all the buildings and infrastructure looked. While the latest development has preserved the unique style of the islands’ architecture – including the distinctive dark volcanic rock used as the primary building material – it sometimes looked like entire towns sprang up yesterday. We learned that in recent years, the European Union has invested heavily in the Azores to support sustainable development, economic resilience, and green energy. A major focus has also been the energy transition—over €130 million is earmarked for renewable energy projects like wind and solar across the islands. What Are the Different Islands in the Azores? The nine islands that make up the Azores archipelago are São Miguel, Terceira, Faial, Pico, São Jorge, Graciosa, Santa Maria, Flores, and Corvo—each with its own distinct personality. São Miguel is the largest and most visited island. You’ll see why it’s called “The Green Island” as soon as you arrive. Misty hills roll into crater lakes like Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. The island is dotted with hydrangeas in summer, and there’s geothermal activity bubbling beneath the surface—in the town of Furnas, people actually cook stews ( cozido ) underground using the earth’s heat (more on this in our itinerary !). Pico is dominated by its namesake volcano—Portugal’s highest peak—and is a dream for hikers and wine lovers alike. The local vineyards, all built on lava fields, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Faial , right next door to Pico, is known as “The Blue Island” because its abundance of hydrangeas. The port town of Horta is full of maritime history and brightly painted murals left behind by passing ship crews. Iglesia del Santo Cristo, Isla de Terceira, Terceira has more visible history—its main city, Angra do Heroísmo, is a UNESCO site with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Traditional bull-running festivals still happen here (though they’re different from the ones in mainland Spain), and locals are very proud of their culture. Then there are the two very remote islands: Flores , which is possibly the most jaw-droppingly beautiful of the bunch. Waterfalls, cliffs, and flower-covered valleys—like a fairytale fell into the ocean. Corvo , the smallest island, has just a few hundred residents and one main village. Visit here if you want to leave the modern world behind. When To Visit the Azores Misty. Magical. As we often say at WS&T, there’s no bad time to travel. And we know that sometimes, kids’ schedules mean you can only travel during certain weeks of the year. Each season in the Azores offers something unique, and as long as you’re prepared for the variable weather, you’ll have a great time no matter what. June–September: High Season This is peak time in the Azores, with warm temperatures, clear skies, and calm seas—ideal for hiking, whale watching, and swimming in natural pools. Hydrangeas are in full bloom, and the islands are at their most photogenic. That said, it’s also the busiest and priciest season, so book ahead and expect more company on the trails. April–May & October: Shoulder Season The in-between months are a sweet spot for many travelers. The weather is mild and mostly dry, but the crowds haven’t yet arrived—or have just left. April and May are particularly green, with spring in full swing. October can be slightly rainier, but the sea is still warm from summer, and it’s harvest time in the vineyards. November–March: Off Season This is the quietest time of year, with cooler temps and more frequent rain, especially on the western islands. But don’t rule it out—there’s a moody beauty to the Azores in winter. Hot springs are even more inviting, prices are lower, and you’ll have the trails and towns mostly to yourself. Just pack layers and expect the weather to shift often! WS&T Travel Tip: No matter the time of year, we recommend bringing a light rain jacket (for both wind and rain); the weather changes on a dime! When is the Best Time to See Whales in the Azores? Blue whale. Devastated I didn't take this pic. The Azores are one of the best places in the world for whale watching, with nearly 30 species passing the islands. April to June is the standout season, when migratory giants like blue whales, fin whales, and sei whales glide by. Summer months (July–September) bring calmer seas and excellent conditions for spotting sperm whales, dolphins, and pilot whales. Even in the off-season, you’ll still have a chance to see resident species, especially around Pico, Faial, and São Miguel. Just remember: nature runs on its own schedule and there are no guarantees! E can tell you firsthand: she is extremely obsessed with whales yet has the worst luck on whale watches. There was that time in Iceland when she went on the best whale tour in the best location at ideal peak season and saw exactly zero whales. The boat crew said it was the first time all season that they hadn’t spotted any. The following week, a friend took the exact same tour and was practically invited to a whale wedding. Can the whales sense E’s whaley infatuation? Are they like, “girl, you’re too thirsty, we’re staying underwater?” Whale, whale, whale, I’ll keep trying… Can You Travel to the Azores on a Budget? You don't have to take out a second mortgage to visit the Azores Yes, you can travel to the Azores on a budget… to a point. Flights from mainland Europe can be surprisingly cheap, especially with low-cost carriers. Coming from the US, we were pleasantly surprised by the flight prices on Azores Airlines. Once you’re on the islands, your biggest expenses will be the rental car and your accommodations. Rental car prices were reasonable in September, but the accommodation prices tended to be higher than what we normally go for – which is why we went with slightly more affordable Airbnbs. Keep in mind, though, that the Azores are definitely more affordable than more touristy island destinations. You'll find everything way cheaper than Hawaii or many places in the Caribbean. If you’re on a tighter budget, you can use the public bus system in São Miguel and look for a hostel or guesthouse. Dining out can be reasonable, with plenty of casual spots serving fresh local food without tourist prices. Many of the islands’ best experiences—like hiking to crater lakes, soaking in hot springs, or wandering coastal towns—are either free or cost just a few euros. But if you want to go on kayaking, snorkeling, surfing, or fishing trips, prepare to shell out more money. The most expensive time to visit the Azores is June through September , which is peak season. Holidays can also spike prices—especially around Easter and Christmas—when both locals and travelers are on the move. If you’re looking to save, aim for the shoulder seasons (April–May or October).  Just keep in mind that while it’s doable on a budget, the hotel options are fairly limited and we definitely recommend planning to have a rental car. What Language Do They Speak in the Azores? In the Azores, the official and most widely spoken language is Portuguese . However, the Azorean accent can sound quite different than continental Portuguese. Each island has its own regional twist on pronunciation, rhythm, and even vocabulary, shaped by centuries of isolation and waves of settlers from different parts of Portugal and beyond. Can I Get By with English in the Azores? You can definitely get by with English in the Azores—especially if you’re visiting more popular islands like São Miguel, Pico, Faial, or Terceira, where tourism is more developed. Many people working in hotels, restaurants, tour companies, and rental agencies speak at least basic English, and signage in airports and major attractions often includes English translations. Outside the main tourist spots—or on the more remote islands like Flores or Corvo —you might encounter older locals who speak little or no English. But Azoreans are famously warm and helpful; we didn’t have any trouble communicating during our travels. That said, learning a few Portuguese phrases goes a long way! What Are Some Basic Words and Phrases in Portuguese? • Olá ( oh-LAH ) – Hello • Bom dia ( bohn JEE-ah ) – Good morning • Boa tarde ( BOH-ah TAR-jee ) – Good afternoon • Boa noite ( BOH-ah NOY-chee ) – Good evening / Good night • Tchau / Adeus ( chow / ah-DEH-oosh ) – Bye / Goodbye • Por favor ( pohr fah-VOHR ) – Please • Obrigado / Obrigada ( oh-bree-GAH-doo / oh-bree-GAH-dah ) – Thank you (masculine/feminine) • De nada ( jee NAH-dah ) – You’re welcome • Desculpe / Com licença ( des-KOOL-pee / kohm lee-SEHN-sah ) – Excuse me / Sorry • Onde fica…? ( OHN-jee FEE-kah…? ) – Where is…? • Quanto custa? ( KWAHN-too KOOS-tah? ) – How much does it cost? • Eu não falo português ( eh-oo nowm FAH-loh por-too-GEYZ ) – I don’t speak Portuguese • Fala inglês? ( FAH-lah een-GLAYS? ) – Do you speak English? • Sim / Não ( seem / nowm ) – Yes / No How do You Travel Between the Azores Islands? FLYING: Flying is by far the quickest and most reliable way to get between islands. SATA Air Açores , the regional airline, connects all nine islands with short flights—most lasting between 20 and 60 minutes . The busiest routes link the larger islands like São Miguel, Terceira, Faial, and Pico . Smaller islands like Corvo or Graciosa have fewer flights, so book ahead. Note that São Miguel is far from the rest of the islands, so you’ll most likely need to fly in and out. WS&T Travel Tip: If you’re arriving in the Azores from mainland Portugal or abroad via Azores Airlines, check if you qualify for a free connecting flight to another island through the MyConnect program. FERRY: Ferries are a scenic, generally budget-friendly way to travel, especially during the summer months (May–September) when the sea is calmer and schedules are more frequent. Atlânticoline runs ferry routes between several islands, with the best connections in the Central Group of Islands : • Faial ↔ Pico ↔ São Jorge are just a short ride apart—sometimes as quick as 30 minutes . • Ferries to/from Flores, Corvo, or Santa Maria are less frequent and can take much longer. WS&T Travel Tip: Ferries are weather-dependent, and service can be limited or even canceled during the winter months. Always check the forecast and confirm schedules before you set sail. PRIVATE TOUR: On some islands—like between Pico and Faial —you’ll find smaller, private boats and local tours that double as transport. These are great for a quick hop or combining your travel with a whale watching or snorkeling trip, though obviously they’re a pricier option. How do You Get Around the Azores Islands? On São Miguel, we definitely recommend renting a (small) car! We go into detail in our 4 Days in São Miguel itinerary . Remember that in high season, you’ll want to reserve your car early. Here’s an island-by-island breakdown of the car rental situation: • São Miguel : Tons of car rental options, from major companies to small locals. Roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate. • Terceira, Faial, Pico : Also well-served by rental companies. Roads are good, though Pico’s can be narrow and windy in parts. • São Jorge, Graciosa, Flores, Santa Maria : Fewer options, but cars are available. Book ahead, especially in summer or if arriving by ferry (cars sell out fast). Roads can be twisty and scenic—drive slowly. • Corvo : The exception. While you can technically rent a car here, it’s a tiny island (you can walk across it in a couple of hours). Most visitors explore on foot or by hiring a local driver. WS&T Travel Tip:  Manual transmission is standard, so request automatic if you need it. Also note that gas stations are sparse in rural areas—fill up before heading out. What is There to Do in the Azores? Sete Cidades in all its glory Ah, what isn’t there to do in the Azores? Okay, a couple of things. But this little archipelago punches above its weight when it comes to nature, adventure, and culture. We were really pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to fill up a 4-day itinerary on São Miguel without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re a hiker, a foodie, a hot spring soaker, or just someone who loves a good ocean breeze, the Azores has something for you. Here are some of the best things to do across the islands: Explore Volcanic Landscapes • Hike around Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo on São Miguel—two incredible crater lakes. • Climb Mount Pico , Portugal’s highest peak (and a rite of passage for ambitious hikers). • Walk through lava tubes like Gruta das Torres on Pico or Algar do Carvão on Terceira. Kiddos love this!   Whale Watching! Yay whales! See above for more deets on these beauties of the deep (and E’s endless quest to see them).   Soak in Natural Hot Springs • Relax in the warm waters of Poça da Dona Beija or the stunning Terra Nostra Garden on São Miguel. • Swim in the ocean hot spring at Ponta da Ferraria , where geothermal water meets the sea. Poça da Dona Beija is kid-friendly, but just be aware the water can stain swimsuits orange! Sup. Experience Rural Island Life (a Hit with Kids and Parents Alike) • Visit a working farm or stop by a local cheese factory (try São Jorge’s famous cheese). • See Azorean cows grazing freely—often with a dramatic ocean backdrop.   Get on the Water • Kayak across crater lakes or snorkel in clear coves. • Take a sailing trip or island-hop by ferry .   Eat, Drink, and Be Merry • Try the island specialty: Cozido das Furnas , a strange stew cooked underground with volcanic heat. • Taste pineapples grown in greenhouses , fresh seafood, and local treats.   Discover History and Culture • Visit Angra do Heroísmo (Terceira), a UNESCO World Heritage city with colorful streets and old forts. • Check out small museums, traditional festivals, and craft shops. Forts, cannons, and wide plazas give kids plenty of room to explore—and the festivals often include music and parades.   Slow Down • Chill out with a book by the sea, nap after a scenic drive, or sip Azorean wine while the kids chase butterflies in a botanical garden. What Should I Eat in the Azores? Get those limpets! The Azores are known for having a range of fresh seafood, hearty stews, and volcanic-cooked meals. Here’s a delicious overview of what to eat in the Azores: Super Fresh Seafood The Atlantic waters surrounding the Azores are teeming with life, so you can find all kinds of fish and some more unique items like: • Lapas (Limpets) : Grilled shellfish often served with garlic and butter. Briny bites! • Cracas (Gooseneck Barnacles) : Weird-looking but a local delicacy. Usually steamed and eaten with a squeeze of lemon.   Meat! The islands are filled with well-cared-for cows, so the beef is fresh and delish. • Alcatra (from Terceira): A beef stew slow-cooked with wine, allspice, and cloves in a clay pot. • Cozido das Furnas : A famous volcanic stew from São Miguel, cooked underground in geothermal heat. It includes beef, pork, chicken, sausages, and root vegetables. • Chouriço Assado : Spicy Azorean sausage, sometimes flambéed at the table in aguardente (a local spirit).   Breads & Pastries You’ll find fresh breads and pastries that make Portuguese bakeries legendary. • Bolo Lêvedo : Sweet, fluffy muffin-like bread from Furnas, kind of like a cross between an English muffin and brioche. • Queijadas da Vila : Sweet, creamy pastries from Vila Franca do Campo, made with milk, eggs, and sugar. • Pão com Chouriço : Warm bread stuffed with spicy sausage, baked fresh in wood ovens.   Can’t Go Wrong with Cheese Azorean cheeses are famous across Portugal. Definitely pair with bread. • Queijo São Jorge : A hard, spicy cow’s milk cheese from São Jorge Island. • Fresh Cheese (Queijo Fresco) : Soft, mild cheese often served with local pepper sauces.   Island Produce • Pineapples : Grown in greenhouses on São Miguel — small, super sweet, and a local point of pride. • Tea : The Azores have Europe’s only tea plantations (Gorreana and Chá Porto Formoso). • Passion Fruit, Bananas, Yams, and more : Thanks to the volcanic soil, produce here is flavorful and abundant.   Drinks • Azorean Wine : Particularly from Pico Island, where vines grow between black volcanic rocks. Look for the varietal Verdelho. • Licor de Maracujá : Passionfruit liqueur. • Local beer : Especial is a popular Azorean brand. Fairly basic but refreshing. Hopefully this whetted your appetite to visit the Azores! Next up, check out our itinerary for the perfect 4 days on São Miguel . If you have any other questions, feel free to drop us a line or leave a comment! Wanna Make Your Azores Trip Even Better?  Click below to check out some curated picks for making life easier when traveling with (and without) small children. Visit GEAR UP  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials Pics, Push Pins, Tokens OR IT DIDN'T HAPPEN! Copyright © WS&T. All rights reserved.

Improved security, drastic decreases in violent crime, advancing opportunities for Colombians, and breakneck investments in modern roadways are making this enchanting country a must-visit. If you’re traveling with little ones, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more baby crazy destination. They love kids! As always, it’s a good idea to do an internet search about any routes and destinations you’re interested in exploring. Find out what other travelers are saying about the safety of places you’d like to visit. If you're wondering whether Colombia is safe , check out our post on the topic. If you're ready to plan your trip, dive into our 10-day guide to an unforgettable Colombian adventure, then check out our flash trip guide to Cartagena  and our road trip along the Caribbean Coast . Quick Takeaways in This Essential Safe Guide: Colombia Bogotá or Cartagena  – landing one vs the other makes a big weather difference Road tripping is tiring  – don’t overestimate how far you can travel in a day. Limit nighttime driving  – it’s not just a suggestion; it can be downright dangerous. GPS time estimates are misleading  – plan for longer than the time suggested. Infrastructure is evolving fast  – new highways and expressways pop up all the time. Use Google Street View  – recent imagery helps you spot-check road conditions. Getsemani neighborhood features numerous beautiful murals and colorful alleyways Jump To: Is Colombia Safe? When to Go? Speaking Spanish Weather & Geography Navigating Colombia Colombian History and Culture   WHAT’S COLOMBIA LIKE? You may have noticed when visiting excessively touristed countries that locals seem worn down by the constant influx of and interaction with foreigners. Colombia’s tourism industry, on the other hand, is still finding its footing. As a result, it seems we visitors have not yet drained the very life force from its hospitality folks. Virtually every person with whom we interacted went out of their way to offer an easy smile and strike up a chat. To that end, Colombian hospitality is incredibly warm and outgoing. At the hummingbird sanctuary, 9,383 feet These people are wild about little kids. Men, women, old and young – everybody turns to mush when they encounter a traveler with a baby. We were stopped in grocery stores, restaurants, museums, and parks – even when AJ was bundled up and sound asleep – just so locals could peek, coo, and swoon. If you’re not comfortable having strangers hold your baby, you should probably come up with a gracious excuse – but good luck – because Colombianos love almost nothing as much as engaging with little kids or holding a baby. Gracious isn’t a strong enough word to describe the people of Colombia. No matter where we were – from city centers to remote roadside food stalls high in the mountains – people go out of their way to make you feel welcome. More than that, most folks are friendly and engaging whether they're working in tourism or not. I think one of the most important things foreign travelers can remember when visiting a country that has worked incredibly hard to shed a tough history is that the country’s everyday citizens were victims. The majority of people neither condone the drug trade nor support the civil strife that has plagued their country. These are people who, when given the opportunity to reclaim their country, seek nothing more than to share the beauty and pride of an incredibly rich culture with eager visitors. The charming hilltop town of Salento IS COLOMBIA SAFE FOR TRAVEL?  This really is the whole point of our essential safe Guide to Colombia. There simply wasn't enough up-to-date info on English language forums. You can read a lot more about the safety of visiting Colombia in our post on the subject . There, we’ll discuss appetite for risk and try to cover as many places and routes as we can – from our perspective – and the safety environments there. You should also check out our general purpose article on how to travel safely anywhere . There, we (cheekily) cover a more nuanced way to improve safe travel skills. TL;DR? The key to mitigating risk is to plan your in-country movements, research the routes and the destinations you’re interested in visiting, and read a few up-to-date travel experiences from fellow adventurers.   On one of our visits, we brought a five-month-old baby. We’ve both agreed that we’d be hard-pressed to think of a country we’ve visited where people were more excited about striking up a conversation just to fawn over AJ. Admittedly, some of the enthusiasm is the novelty but plenty of it is simply the love of children that is seemingly universal in Colombia. Mothers with big families spoke wistfully about how much they missed having a baby AJ's age. I must say, she is one heck of an ice breaker when you’re on the road! If you're thinking of traveling to Colombia with a little one, be sure to check out our article on the subject. We get into packing lists, keeping your routine, and all things kiddo-logistics. Overall, in covering roughly 1,700 km (1,000 mi) in a rental vehicle, we did not feel in danger at any time. Unless, of course, we’re talking about the driving itself. But I will get into that in our post on driving in Colombia . Everywhere we went, people were warm and friendly. Police and military presence were notable, and cities we visited felt safe.   We did drive through some areas in Medellin, in particular near the city center’s museums and plazas, where life looked decidedly unkind to segments of the population. Some of the blocks where items are scrapped and sold are about as rough as what you’d encounter driving through Skid Row in Los Angeles, while only a block or two away, families, tourists, and business people on lunch breaks are relaxing in a beautiful plaza surrounded by chubby Botero sculptures.   The Main Square in Villa de Leyva WHEN SHOULD YOU GO TO COLOMBIA? High Season runs from December through February and into March. You’ll see more tourists, but also more sunny days. Naturally, tourist-focused businesses raise prices during this season as well. If you’re a budget traveler and don’t mind some rain, October and November are wonderful times to explore the country. Flights, car rentals, and hotels are all cheaper – which certainly appeals to us. We’ve been in October and encountered nothing but sunshine, but I certainly wouldn’t count on it. Check out some of our favorite itineraries for a great Colombia experience. Family always finds a way CAN YOU GET BY IN COLOMBIA WITHOUT SPANISH? How hard is it to visit and travel Colombia if your Spanish isn’t great? Good news, you don’t necessarily need to be fluent or have much Spanish to get around. Most people speak some English in the major cities. What’s more, ChatGPT and other apps offer a handy feature that lets you have a conversation with somebody in another language in real-time. So far, you’ve got to have a cellular or WIFI connection for it to work. You can get a sense of how this app could work for you in our article reviewing the translation app.   As you progress to more rural areas, the odds of finding someone with serviceable English is likely to diminish as with most places in the world you’re visiting. But as always, even with a complete language barrier, patience, grace, and context can get you a long way. If you’re standing at a ticket booth, sitting in a restaurant, or loitering at a concierge desk, there’s a good chance they know what you’re about. WHAT SHOULD I EAT IN COLOMBIA? Classic breakfast: bandeja paisa Check out our cheat sheet on Colombian cuisine  for a food-obsessed overview of the country's flavors, staples, and signature dishes.   WHAT IS COLOMBIA'S GEOGRAPHY LIKE? Okay, this is fascinating. One out of every ten species on the planet can be found in Colombia! It’s the second most bio-diverse country in the world (after Brazil – a country 10x its size). And driving around the country for a week helps you understand why Avianca's claim of being the oldest operating commercial airline in the Western Hemisphere (since 1919) isn't remotely far-fetched.   Colombian geography is that extreme. Domestic and international investment in highways and tunnels (Tunel La Linea is the longest tunnel in South America, boring through the Earth for a staggering 8.6km) are rapidly opening the country up to the intranational commute, but it’s decidedly a work in progress. WEATHER & TEMPERATURE IN COLOMBIA The airport you choose in this geographically diverse country can make a big difference. An equatorial destination, you won’t see major temperature swings, but whether you’re landing in Bogota vs. Cartagena, for example, weather should factor into your planning.     Temperatures aren’t the only thing you’ll contend with. Whereas Cartagena straddles the Caribbean coastline, Bogotá rests in an upland basin of the Cordillera Oriental within the northern Andes mountains. Its elevation clocks in at a respectable 8,660 feet (2,640 meters) above sea level.   If you’re like us and have lived most of your lives near sea level, you may suffer the effects of high altitude. Bogotá is no Cuzco, Peru – where walking a flight of stairs was a trial – but I still developed a low-level headache shortly after we landed in Colombia. My wife, generally better at handling altitude, reported only a minor feeling of sluggishness. You may get lucky by experiencing only some slight non-travel-related fatigue. And the good news is you should adapt pretty quickly.   If you’re traveling with little ones, check out our post about the effects of altitude and symptom mitigation in children.   No altitude-induced headaches in Cartagena but get ready for dependably humid air and plenty of Caribbean heat. Temps at the equator feel considerably more intense thanks to the steeper angle of the sun at our lovely planet’s generous waistline. When you're reading, check out one of our favorite itineraries for this Caribbean gem. Cows don't care if it's an expressway! GETTING AROUND COLOMBIA Driving a rental vehicle?   Roadways are being improved at a breakneck pace, but much of the country is still for serious drivers only. Moreover, your GPS is virtually guaranteed to mislead about the time it will take to reach your destination.   Locals universally rely on the navigation app Waze for the most up-to-date traffic information, including warnings about the simultaneously respected and loathed speed cameras that are ubiquitous in parts of the country. To date, however, Waze does not offer the same offline map functionality as Google Maps because Waze is focused on real-time data whereas Google Maps can be downloaded before your trip for more reliable offline use. We recommend downloading maps of your routes via Google Maps and/or using Waze when your cellular service is available. We've gone into crazy detail about using Waze and Google Map in tandem to get the best our of your travel, including the added power of having Maps.Me for backup. We even go into detail about how to use Google Street View to check recent road conditions. If you're curious, that article is a must-read.   As driving at night is something of an extreme sport, it’s nearly vital to plan for long trips to begin early in your day. The roads, distances, hairpin curves, and incredibly aggressive drivers will also wear drivers out more quickly than usual. Mistakes on Colombia roads can get you into a bad situation in the blink of an eye.   As hinted at above, almost every adventurous driving itinerary for Colombia is overly ambitious. The roads and the geography are a huge impediment to getting to see everything you’d like in one sweep. If you’re dead set on exploring as much as possible, your best bet is booking inexpensive flights through Colombia’s many hubs to explore the cities and day-trip the surrounding areas with a combination of brief car rentals and/or one-way rentals. The benefit more than makes up for the time it takes to secure the vehicle.   If you’re driving, hyper-vigilance is the name of the game. Many destinations outside cities demand a vehicle with some ground clearance. You can get lucky with a drive that consists of 90% paved roads, only to encounter an area where seismic zones with huge dips. Rain and mudslides frequently wash out portions of smaller paved roads. Route 62 in parts of Santander w/ Blind Curves & Mud Holes And all of this is to say nothing of entire swaths of your journey that may include vehicle-sized mud holes or ruts deep enough to strand cars with lower ground clearance.   The first time you see an oncoming vehicle adorned with multi-colored lights that flash and twinkle, you might think to yourself that Colombian drivers exercise serious artistic flair. After driving for five minutes on the open road, you will quickly get it. Driving in Colombia can feel like an extreme sport. Our post on driving in Colombia in an absolute eye-opener.   Taking a Bus?  If you’re not completely confident in (or deluded by) your driving proficiency, bussing around the country is an option. Due to heavy traffic within 20-30 miles (30-50km) of a city, or along certain heavily trafficked routes, and combined with poor roads in areas, the going can be extremely slow. As long as you’re not in a hurry, it’s a great option. That being said, many Colombian bus drivers are as aggressive as anyone on the road. I saw long-haul buses navigate traffic jams like maniac daredevils, forcing oncoming traffic to the shoulder while passing.   Flight-hopping? Many everyday commuters travel Colombia’s inexpensively friendly skies. Among the longest-transited commercial airspace in Latin America, Colombian air travel is a matter of necessity. Rough terrain and evolving roadway infrastructure makes flying a no-brainer. We found the combination of air travel and car rentals to be a great way to see the country.   RENTING A CAR (HURRY UP AND WAIT) QUICK TAKES ·      Your driver license will suffice. No International License needed ·      Get a credit card that offers rental car insurance coverage ·      To ease congestion, Colombia cities restrict driving days   One of our essentials to renting a car is to carry a credit card that offers among its perks some kind of built-in insurance coverage. We'll tell you all about it here , but let's just say, aside from country-mandated liability, there are few things more pleasing than declining all that expense coverage at the rental counter. “Decline! Decline! Decline!”   Certainly, if you can lock in an online rate before you arrive, that’s a great strategy. This isn’t Europe, so booking a small car with low clearance is not a good idea. Despite having seen locals driving cars through the mountains, to this day I have difficulty imagining how they manage such a feat. Colombian roads outside cities come in every conceivable shape and size. You think you know potholes? We’ve seen vehicles drive into them and momentarily disappear from view.   A word of caution for renting a car in Colombia: Wear comfortable shoes. Once you’ve stepped up to the rental counter, you can expect to be there for up to thirty minutes while a small mountain of administrative paperwork is completed.   Besides the bureaucratic rite of passage, the annoyance of waiting is happily offset by kindly customer service. Everywhere we rented a car clerks were consistently outgoing and super friendly. Read our complete post about Car Rentals in Colombia for detailed tips about renting a vehicle for your visit. PICO Y PLACA (RENTAL DRIVERS MUST-READ) Colombian cities like Bogotá, Cali, Medellin, and many others rely on a system to reduce traffic congestion throughout the work week. That means, depending on the last two digits of your rental vehicle’s plate number, you may not be permitted to drive starting at 6:30 am on certain weekdays. Bogotá does allow you to pay extra for the privilege driving on restricted days, but other cities do not.   Learn all about the restrictions , which cities enforce them, where to find up-to-date information about which plate numbers are affected each week, and tips for ensuring Pico Y Placa doesn’t put an abrupt pause on your travel plans. COLOMBIAN HISTORY AND CULTURE We have two fun features for you to learn a lot about this complicated and fascinating country. First, as you travel around you'll see the name Simón Bolívar everywhere . Who was he? Read our article on his fascinating story to find out. We also have a great list of fun facts, and recommended books and movies all about Colombia! If you have any other questions, feel free to drop us a line or leave a comment! Wanna Make Your Colombia Trip Even Better?  Click below to check out some curated picks for making life easier when traveling with (and without) small children. Visit GEAR UP  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials Pics, Push Pins, Tokens OR IT DIDN'T HAPPEN! Copyright © WS&T. All rights reserved.

It's true... Prague is as wonderful as everyone says. Yes, Bohemia is caught in the crosshairs of overtourism—thanks in no small part to influencers draped over attractions like Charles Bridge. But if you’re drawn more to history and mesmerizing architecture, Prague was meant for you. With more cultural soul than the infinite scroll, this Central European destination makes for a perfect Flash Trip: 3 Breathtaking Days in Prague. With AJ in the Ergobaby, we wandered the cobblestone streets, ducking into restaurants, museums, and architectural gems at every chance. If you're bringing kiddos, you'll find Prague as kid-friendly as everywhere else we've visited in Europe; and dang, Europeans have the classiest strollers! Like a select few European cities both blessed and cursed to hold Hitler’s cruel gaze during WWII, Prague’s architecture was largely spared from destruction. As a result, it’s not any single attraction that leaves the definitive impression—it’s the city itself. Truly, just walking and wandering its streets is what captures the imagination. We found ourselves crisscrossing the same streets often during our wanderings, and we always found new buildings, statues, and architectural embelishments to admire. Always remember to look up! And if you love Prague but want to beat the crowds, check out our Flash Trip: 3 Historic Days in Kraków, Poland ! FLASH TRIP PRAGUE INDEX: Jump To:   Parents Traveling With Kids When Is the Best Time to Visit Prague? Getting To & Around the City Where to Stay What to Eat & Drink The Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary Day 1: Old Town Day 2: Jewish Quarter & Fave Museums Day 3: River Walk & Relaxed Goodbye A Note on Getting Around the City of Prague Parents, the cobblestone streets and sidewalks are manageable with larger stroller wheels, but as always, we recommend baby-wearing when possible, just to give you more flexiblity to skirt the crowds and see the less-visited sights. While much of the heavily touristed area are on flatter ground, some of the most rewarding sites (Lesser Town) are perched on steeper inclines. We will say that we saw strollers everywhere, so it's definitely doable if you're not into baby-wearing all day. On two separate days, we logged over 25,000 steps—so come prepared. (It’s worth noting that E did most of it while baby-wearing AJ, as T was still recovering from spinal surgery. That’s 20lbs+ on top of those 50k steps!) WS&T Stroller Tip: The more upright your tiny trekker sits, the better their neck and shoulders can absorb the ride. While reclining may seem more restful—especially when they’re sleepy—an upright posture helps stabilize the head and reduce jostling over Prague’s bumpy cobblestones. Our Best Kid Play Place Picks for Prague Place Type Kids Price (Kč) In Euro (≈) In USD (≈) Toboga Fantasy Indoor 349 Kč €13.96 $16.20 The Playground Indoor 300–1 000 Kč €12.00–40.00 $13.93–46.43 Prague Zoo Outdoor 250 Kč €10.00 $11.61 WS&T Walking Tip:  Nothing works better for us than stretching calves and hips before and after a long day on foot. Seriously—young or old—it’s a real (yes, I'll say it) game-changer. For calves:  Stand with your heels hanging off a small ledge or drop. Steady yourself by grabbing something with one hand. Raise up onto your tiptoes, then slowly lower your heels way down until your Achilles feels taut and your heels are as low as you can comfortably drop. You’re aiming more for the stretch at the bottom than the tiptoe. A gentle bounce at the bottom— very gentle —can help deepen the stretch. For hips:  Unless you’ve got gymnast-level balance, place your butt against a wall. Cross your feet—left over right—and, keeping your knees mostly straight, slowly fold forward vertebra by vertebra. You’ll feel the stretch along the outer sides of your hips. Let yourself drape there for up to a minute. Then stand upright (give your head a sec to stop spinning), switch legs—right over left—and repeat. Tip ² : For even bestier results, do this after about 10–20 minutes of walking. Muscles, tendons, and joints respond much better once they’re warm. Where was I? Oh yeah, moving about Prague! If you’re less inclined to walk every-which-where, the tram system  is both scenic and a breeze. It’s easy to succumb to the urge to resist mass transit in cities with a language barrier, but the quicker you crack the code, the sooner you can be cruising in style. In Prague, (1) you’re still going to do plenty of walking. (2) Trams have huge windows, so you can still see plenty. (3) The newer trams are warm on cold days; cool on hot days. (4) You can get to even more city attractions! Plus, it’s soooo cheap. Here’s our fantastic breakdown of Prague’s transit system and how to use it. When to Go to Prague For best results, wait for a snowstorm on Christmas Eve and—just kidding. No doubt about it, Prague ranks among the most visited cities on Earth, and with good reason. At We Save & Travel , we’ve found we love to step well off the beaten path. But that’s not always possible—especially in cities where the major attractions do  live up to the hype. In those cases, we craft itineraries that lean more toward cultural immersion and less selfie-stick. You’ll find the big-name sights here, but our route tends to run beaten-path-adjacent —with enough space to breathe and wander. Like in Kraków , wandering Prague on chilly mornings that eventually become warm afternoons is ideal. April/May and September/October put you squarely in that zone. You will never quite shed the crowds, even in the colder months, but you can try to be comfortable. Click to expand In terms of what’s going on throughout the year, there are numerous popular events to plan around. Much of the year’s calendar revolves around classical music. For fans of orchestras, Prague is near the center of the musical universe. It's become something of a tourist trap to for various sites to have concerts throughout the day, but with a little research you can find some excellent offerings. The Spring International Music Festival  in May is a wonderful experience. The Easter and Christmas   Markets  during their respective months are a real treat as well, though expect big crowds. For fans of theater and avant-garde performance arts (hello), the Prague Fringe features roughly 200 performances across a dozen or more venues. Getting to & Arriving in Prague During shoulder seasons, flying into Prague from many destinations around Europe offers excellent round-trip fares of $45-$60 (budget carriers) and sub-$100 flights across the board. Rail  is, of course, a great way to move around Europe with sub-$100 fares from as far as Rome. Two big things to keep in mind. Because the railways are a very popular mode of travel, you definitely need to book passage well in advance. And the more direct you’d like your travel to be, the bigger premium for tickets. Earlier bookings also favor the budget! Parents traveling with a car seat:  there are no train seatbelts. You’re working with considerably more space than on a plane, so there’s a lot less stress to keep that squirmer from flailing about. If you are  traveling with a car seat and tiny trekker, there is room to creatively utilize the seat (e.g. on the floor or the seat) or stow it, based on your comfort level. Click to expand Roadtripping into Prague from any direction takes you through achingly beautiful countryside, villages, towns, and cities. Berlin, Bratislava, Austria are a wonderful 3.5-to-4.5-hour drive. Munich and Kraków are also doable without becoming exhausted. WS&T Driving Tip : Headlights and Vignettes. Headlights and Vignettes. Mandatory . The fine for not having a vignette (road toll sticker) in the Czech Republic would buy the equivalent of a week in a fairly decent hotel . Yeeee! You must set up your vignettes  (road toll stickers) in advance. Czech Republic requires a digital vignette for highway use, activated in advance . They’re cheap and rely on your plate number for processing. 10 days runs in the neighborhood of $13. You can get them here .  They’re also available in gas stations near the border. Austria and Slovakia also require vignettes, whereas Poland and Germany do not. If you're driving, I highly, highly, highly recommend making your Prague accommodations outside the old town and inner-city districts. Parking is very challenging and/or expensive. If your hotel offers a valet service and that’s your jam, by all means. But to save a little dough, consider staying above the city and ensure your lodging offers a parking option. If you’re really budget-conscious, do what locals do. There are numerous Park & Ride options on the city outskirts. They’re cheap ($1 a day) and have plenty of easy tram lines to connect them. Prague’s parking apps include EasyPark, ParkDots, MPLA. WS&T Money Tip: Prague does not officially take Euros. The official currency is Czech koruna. And for the love of St. Pete and pastries, stay away from Euronet ATMs. Their fees are extortionate and their user-interface programming is deceitful. We really don't like them. General Item Price (CZK) Approx. USD Public transit ticket 40 $1.75 Pint of beer 50–70 $2–3 Mid-range meal 200–350 $8–15 Coffee 45–75 $2–3.25 Museum admission 150–300 $6–13 Accommodations for 3 Breathtaking Days in Prague Prague (locally known as Praha) is sliced up by administrative districts. When choosing a place to stay, the easiest way to point you in the right direction is to become familiar with some of these districts. District Includes Why It Matters Prague 1 Old Town, New Town, Lesser Town, Hradčany Historic center, most tourist sites, $$$ Prague 2 Vinohrady, New Town, Vyšehrad Stylish, scenic, good transport Prague 3 Žižkov, part of Vinohrady Edgy, up-and-coming, affordable Prague 5 Smíchov, Anděl Shopping, river views, modern hotels Prague 6 Dejvice, Břevnov Quiet, leafy, embassy area Prague 7 Letná, Holešovice Artsy, green parks, great views Prague 10 Residential parts of Vršovice, Strašnice Budget stays, fewer tourists If you’re driving a rental car, you will have a much easier go (unless your hotel has a valet service) staying outside of the heart  of Prague 1, specifically avoiding accommodations in the area of Old Town and New Town. It’s not as simple as saying don’t stay in Prague 1  because the districts are quite large when thinking like a pedestrian. To get the very best views Prague, seek out accommodations on the side of the hills west and northwest of Old Town (West Prague 1) AKA Lesser Town. Don’t let the walk up and down the hill intimidate you, the tram service is conveniently located and quite timely. Vinohrady (Prague 2 & 10) offers a walkable proximity to the major sites with the advantage of being more rental car-friendly. Rates for accommodations are fairly reasonable here, and there are plenty of nice neighborhood eateries. Our Hotel Recommendations in Prague Mowing the monastery grounds for room & board Hotel Monastery (Western edge of Praha 1): On the gated grounds of the gorgeous Strahov Monastery and right at the entrance of a walking path that eventually winds its way toward the Prague Castle . Try to book a room overlooking the city. Early risers will be richly rewarded with a spectacular view. Oh, and breakfast on-site!   MOOo by the Castle (West Praha 1): Beloved by guests and richly appointed with a generally great rate depending on the season. You’re pretty well in the thick of things on the castle side of the beautiful Vltava River that divides Prague. However, the apartment-style hotel is tucked away so as to feel a bit more secluded. The craft cocktail bar is outstanding!   Eight Secrets Boutique (Praha 2): If you’re traveling with kids and need some additional room and trimmings, these apartments are well-appointed. The bedroomy neighborhood is near grocery stores and great eateries, as well as metro and tram lines. Good parking options and a short tram ride to Old Town.   Where to Eat in Prague One of each, plz. God, I thought you'd never ask. The name of the game in Prague, unless you’re queueing up for street food is reservations . Everything worth its salt books up daily. Fortunately, most of the dining gets done a little later in the evening than most Americans are used to, but do not count on dropping in on a well-regarded eatery and getting a table, especially if you’re traveling with a group. Making a reservation is painless. Virtually all of them can be made online or by email. You can also call. "Reservation for 4" is Common Tongue in the restaurant industry. When it comes to the cuisine, goulash, braised beef, and rich sauces are staples. Dumplings  are divine. We like to do a mix of high and low end and are always on the lookout for great ethnic cuisines served up by neighborhood pockets of local émigré and immigrant. Starting with some heartier, delicious local fare: Lokál Dlouhááá: Just off the beating heart of Old Town, this place is popular all day long. Super casual and seated on the ground floor of a building, it’s like walking through a long subway terminal. We did the walk-in thing but apparently got very lucky. Every other table has a reserved sign set for all hours of the day. Not much to look at, but everything on the menu is absolutely delicious. Gorgeous dumplings. And if you’re like us and need the occasional leafy green on a long, rich road-trip they have excellent salad options. Beer is served by 12 carefully treated tanks. If it doesn’t offend your beer sensibilities, try the Chandy. Note: You may see a few Lokál. The restaurant group, Ambiente, opens hit spots and knock-offs pop up some time later. That doesn't mean they're not tasty. The one in Lesser Town not far from the Senate is great. U Kroka: Just off the river and within sight of those twin spires of Vyšehrad Castle , this eatery is where simplicity meets midrange elegance. Super well-executed staples. Sauce freaks will geek out hard. The street scene is fantastic on the patio. Perfect place to take that break to replenish the walk-off calories. If you’d like to have a measuring stick for good Hungarian goulash, hi there! Here it is. Kantýna: Just steps from a fantastic indoor children’s playground and amusement center—which itself sits around the corner from the incomparable Mucha museum —and occupying a former bank, this modern, somewhat upscale establishment exists for the Meat Super Villain in your life. From mouth-watering tartare and excellent burgers to superb steak cuts, you will know you’re in the right place the moment you catch sight of the handsome on-site butcher shop. Insert swimming pool-sized drool emoji here. Mom's Day All Day A recent trip fell on Mother’s Day, so we splurged on what turned out to be an excellent dinner with a wowsome overlook of Lesser and Old Town. We really have to shout out Terasa u Zlaté studn ě . Please note: There are some elevatoring and stair-climbing, so it won’t be the friendliest with a stroller. The cuisine, hospitality, and ambience were spectacular. Slightly out of order, perhaps—but Bohemians are anything but indifferent to breakfast and brunch . Seems to be a correlation between # of eggs eaten and step counter milestones Café Savoy: A modern bistro with a trendy vibe without being too stuffy, this place has a down-to-earth bakery feel and an excellent breakfast and pastry selection. Awesome place to start your day in a leisurely way. You can find it steps away from the Legion Bridge , a great crossing point over the river and close to the chillaxed side of the city, featuring beer gardens, parks, and boutique museums. Obecní Dům Eateries: To dine within the jaw-dropping embrace of extravagantly beautiful architecture, we highly recommend paying a visit to the Municipal House ( Obecní dům). You may feel totally under-dressed, but it's okay. There are three establishments—a high-end restaurant, midrange café, and hidden locals joint—just inside this lavish Art Nouveau concert venue. Just to walk through the place is like stepping directly into another era. Be sure you do some exploring before selecting the eatery that looks most appealing. Here they are: Francouzská Restaurace Art Nouveau: Boasting massive chandeliers, high ceilings and the very best of Art Nouveau (we all know what the tacky side looks like); Kavárna Obecní dům  is equally charming as a great café with all-day offerings. And downstairs hides the unassuming Pilsner Restaurant  where beer hall and hearty Czech cuisine reside in perfect harmony. It's the best kind of claustrophobic down there. Might remind you of eating under Grand Central in Manhattan. Recently learned I can make crispy french toast in an air fryer. Never going back. Gruzie Restaurant: Georgian cuisine at its absolute most decadent. Start with cheesy moats of khachapuri , get richly fragrant soups and veggie stews and curries, phenomenal goulash, lamb, pork, beef, chicken kebabs, and one of the finest Chashushuli (clay pot stew) I’ve tasted. We were lucky enough to visit with family (along with friends stationed in Prague), so we got a chance to try everything. Top to bottom, the menu is outrageously good. For that pastry  fix—because that’s its own travel food group—check out Eska’s mouth-watering meringues (and freshly baked sourdough). I picked this because there’s something for every palette (and time of day), not just sweet toothists. The Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary Day 1: Getting a Feel for Prague When you wish upon gothic spires... Prague is bisected by the picturesque Vlatava River, with several bridges crossing from West to East. On the West, you'll find the Castle Quarter atop the "Lesser Town." On the East, the Jewish Quarter sits just north of the Old Town, where you'll find the Old Town Square and Prague's most famous sights. Just East of here is the New Town, anchored by the big, bustling Wenceslas Square. The whole city is very walkable or tram-able, so a motivated visitor can cover quite a lot of ground! WHAT TO DO IN PRAGUE The walk-and-wander strategy serves us well in Prague. As you do so, identify places you’d like to revisit because you’re bound to retrace your footsteps in this city. Everyone does. By Day 3, river walks, casual museum pop-ins, and head-tilted-skyward strolls through ancient neighborhoods may be just the thing to help cool your jets on this step-centric flash trip. To manage crowds, rising early is the best. There are few traveler treats more satisfying than witnessing the waking of a city, especially one in which kings and houses played the very real game of thrones for hundreds of years. That’s not to say you must  hit the cobblestone when the rooster crows. But aim to be on your way by 8am. If you’re staying on the western side of the city, a stroll toward the Prague Museum and the stunning architecture of the Castle Square is almost too much for the eyes to gobble. The Sculptures of the Titans is a particular highlight, but the historical eye candy is plentiful. Within the castle grounds, the crowds will begin gathering for tickets before 9am. We’ve had luck queuing by 8:45am. You’ll need up to two hours to get a full dose of Prague Castle , the many breathtaking interiors, courtyards, sculptures, and St. Vitus Cathedral . Before leaving the castle complex, you dare not miss the fascinating and beautiful Lobkowicz Palace . There is as much historical intrigue as artifact within these walls. If you want to be drawn into an incredible story, look no farther. Twice this massive private residence was stolen and occupied. It wasn’t until the 1990s that surviving members of the family—including an American attorney—embarked on a painstaking years-long process to reclaim and restore the residence and its widely scattered heirlooms. Since it’s Day One and you’re cruising on fresh legs, conclude your castle complex visit by trekking through Golden Lane  to get a feel for the peasant-craftsperson life beneath the castle. Tromp down the hillside and prepare to cross one of the iconic bridges that lead to Old Town. The most iconic, of course, is Charles Bridge.  Braving the big crowds that gather here is up to you. The bridge features beautiful sculpture work, and earlier in the day means fewer people. That said, most of the river’s crossings are gorgeous. You can even get an excellent view of Charles Bridge by crossing the Manes Bridge  (Mánesův most) instead. By either route, you move from Lesser Town (Malá Strana) into Old Town and converge on the heart of Prague tourism within its 10th century Old Town Square . Replete with beer gardens on every corner, hard-to-fathom building-sized sculptures, the Astronomical Clock, and loomed over by the 262-foot tall, twin Gothic spires of the Church of Our Lady Before Týn.   Said to have been an inspiration for Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty” castles, the church keeps tricky hours, so if you want to visit, you might do a pop-in to check the schedule before committing. Incredible interiors, a baroque vault (I love me a vault), and a renowned pipe organ are among the features that are naturally every bit as intricate as you’d expect from this part of the world. You could hang in the central square or sneak just around the corner to one of the locals’ offshoot plazas— Ungelt Courtyard  is a great option for shade a nibble or a sip. Mucha, the People's Artist Let your feet take you in any direction—you’re close to Lokal Dlouhááá  for a great lunch—then check out the aforementioned Municipal House. Step inside and wander the hallways on the main level and downstairs, peek into the restaurants, and just gawk at some of the most intensely lavish Art Nouveau stylings one can find. Wenceslas Square is one of the true city centers and home to the business and cultural pulse of Prague’s New Town. Vibrant street life, ethnic grub, endless shopping, and a favorite museum of ours, containing one of the largest (if not largest?) collections of Alphonse Mucha in the world. If you came into Old Town by crossing Manes Bridge, you could head back toward Lesser Town via Charles Bridge, the nearest pedestrian crossing to New Town. Day 2: Into Prague's History Start your day with a tram ride to the Jewish Quarter . Arriving early, before the city fully stirs, brings some gravity to the experience. The narrow streets, hushed and mostly empty, allow the weight of history to settle around you. Some of that history is undeniably heavy—but there's also a profound sense of cultural endurance here, as much a monument to resilience as it is a sobering reminder of our fragility. To get the full experience, purchase a combined ticket  granting access to several sites clustered within a compact, three-block area of Prague’s historic Jewish Quarter. Tickets are available at the Jewish Museum’s Information and Reservation Center —a modest, modern-looking building that can be easy to overlook despite its central role. To be clear, this isn’t a museum. Just a ticket center. Daaaaang Once you have your ticket, you’ll proceed outdoors to visit the following included sites: ·       Maisel Synagogue ·       Spanish Synagogue ·       Pinkas Synagogue ·       Klausen Synagogue ·       Ceremonial Hall ·       Old Jewish Cemetery Each stop offers a distinct experience: Pinkas Synagogue  – solemn and emotionally powerful, with every wall inscribed with the names of 77,000 Czech and Moravian Jews  who perished in the Holocaust Old-New Synagogue  – a separate ticket  is required for this 13th-century Gothic landmark , one of the oldest active synagogues in Europe Spanish Synagogue  – dazzlingly ornate, with Moorish-style architecture , gold detailing, and domed ceilings Maisel Synagogue  – museum-like, with exhibits tracing Jewish life in Bohemia from the 10th to 18th centuries Klausen Synagogue  and the Ceremonial Hall  – house displays on Jewish customs, traditions, and burial practices , adjacent to the evocative Old Jewish Cemetery. The Old Jewish Cemetery  is like nothing you can imagine. Like a few other world-famous cemeteries (La Recoleta in Buenos Aires), it really sticks with you. There are estimated to be upwards of 12,000 visible headstones and perhaps 100,000 bodies buried below in an area roughly the size of a city block. What makes it so haunting is the way the stones tilt in every direction imaginable due to the shifting soil over hundreds and hundreds of years. After the Jewish Quarter, it might be nice to cruise back toward Old Town and catch some of the sites you missed. Folks rave about the hourly performance of the Astronomical Clock  and numerous other sites lie in wait. But most of all, look up. Between every attraction, on virtually every street, is an edifice, a sculpture of unbelievable significance, or some splash of fabled (or funny) architectural movement that’s been holding its ground year after year. I’ve saved this moment for my favorite museum in Prague. It’s also unjustifiably the quietest due to its off-the-beaten-path location. The National Gallery Prague St. Agnes Convent is housed inside a 13th-century Gothic monastery, and hosts an enormous collection of incredibly well-preserved medieval works of religious art. The convent and garden are free, and also well worth a detour. Pick a new bridge to cross (or for convenience take Manes Bridge) and check out the Waldstein Gardens  at the Senate Palace . Stunning topiary, baroque statues, and ornamental pools. Plus, you’ll share your stroll with a dozen or so haughty peacocks. The birds are quite the spectacle within the grounds, especially when they begin to cry. T: "MEE-YAUH!" The streets and neighborhoods in this area are a treat for wandering, so get a little lost (just watch out for the trams on the blind corners). If you need to top off your fix for that baroque garden fetish, you can quickly make it to nearby Vrtba Garden. Day 3: Museums and Riverwalk Feel free to sleep in, take a late breakfast. Your step counter hasn’t finished tabulating the last two days, so give it a break and cruise down to the water near Charles Bridge and pop into one of the most renowned pastry shops in Prague. (Yes. Hype earned.) Iveta Fabešová (named for the famous pastry chef herself) features supremely creative confections and cakes that should somehow be framed and hung on the wall rather than eaten. Well, okay. Both. Great coffee and brunch offerings, too. Buttery, flaky heaven The riverwalk in this neck of Lesser Town is host to wonderful green spaces with lazy eateries and beer gardens galore. Tons of people hang on Kampa Island and picnic, have a beer or glass of wine, and let the kids run wild for a while. Several nice museums, too. Museum Kampa, the Czech Museum of Music , and the Franz Kafka Museum. If you’re still hankering for more baroque, the Liechtenstein Palace —overlooking the river—is a nice stop. But for one day at least, stroll the greens, window shop, grab a Pilsner, and live like a Praha local!   If you have more time in Central/Eastern Europe, make sure to check out our guide to Kraków ! Wanna Make Your Flash Trip Even Better?  Click below to check out some curated picks for making life easier when traveling with (and without) small children. Visit GEAR UP  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials

Take in ALL of Kraków, they said. Love Prague but don’t swoon over swarming tourists? You’ll be captivated by a visit to Kraków. The gorgeous Polish city’s history—equal parts inspiring and heart‑wrenching—makes it purely can’t‑miss. And while swaths of Europe’s historic cityscapes were tragically lost to aerial bombardment, Kraków’s administrative importance (for better and worse) spared most of its Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Every street feels like a stroll through the pages of history. Over three days, we think you’ll be as enchanted as we were. A $70 flight from numerous European cities, Kraków is the perfect introduction to majestic Poland. So, change your Ws to Vs and join us on an excellent Flash Trip: 3 Days in Kraków . Much Play! A Special Note to Parents Completely blown away. That's the best way we can describe how kid-friendly Poland is. It's virtually a given that no matter where you're standing, there's a kid-centric play area close by. We found them in museums (shout out to the awesome Bunkier Museum!), hotels, department stores, even restaurants. They're clean, well-maintained, often as educational as they are immersive, and they're perfect after a long day spent baby-wearing and the little one needs to stretch those legs or wind down the batteries. The added benefit of all these places to play is that you can sort of reset those jet laggy little trekkers by getting that late-afternoon energy out! FLASH TRIP KRAKÓW INDEX: When Is the Best Time to Visit Kraków? Arrival Information Where to Stay What to Eat & Drink The Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary Day 1: Old Town Essentials Day 2: Jewish Quarter & Heavy History Day 3: Making Pierogis & Strolling Our Favorite Day Trips When to Go to Kraków More than ever, it’s a real challenge to recommend the ideal season when crowds are smaller and prices are cheaper. But if any unforgettable city fits the description of a shoulder season destination, it’s Kraków. We’ve had great luck in late April to early May. The weather is still chilly in the mornings, but by noon you’re shedding layers. Crowds are a bit smaller, with only one notable exception. September and the first half of October are great choices on the other shoulder. Temps have started cooling off and there's far less chance of a rainstorm to take you off the path. Kraków famously celebrates students from all over Poland (and Europe) by offering big venue discounts. The city’s numerous museums re-open by night, and the lamp lit streets are full of college students on holiday. Especially with kids in tow, the Kraków vibe is so wonderful. Ergobaby All-Weather Cover? CLUTCH. Layers are key in Kraków. And an umbrella or thin, lightweight rain jacket is always great to have on hand. When storms do roll through, they’re typically brief. I always recommend having a weather radar app on your phone for a quick peek throughout your day. I won’t lie, there’s something oh-so satisfying about being able to schedule your midday coffee/tea break just ahead of that sudden cloudburst. In addition to the light rain jacket and umbrella, you will be doing plenty of exploring on the grounds of Wawel Royal Castle of Kraków. Perched on a sun-drenched hill overlooking the city, there is plenty of opportunity for sun so hat and sunblock are musts. You’ll also be grateful for good, warm layers that can be shed and stowed in a pack by noontime. Public restrooms are plentiful, so sip freely at those water bottles and stay hydrated. Getting to & Arriving in Kraków Flying into Kraków from destinations around Europe is generally very reasonable. (sub-$100). Polish airline LOT makes the 1-hr flight from Warsaw numerous times a day. The airport is named after Poland's favorite son John Paul II (seriously, he's everywhere!) and located about 11 km outside the city. Take the Koleje Małopolskie (KML) train , located near the arrivals hall, on a 17-minute journey into town. Tickets will run you about $5 and can be purchased from machines at the arrivals hall or in the train station. Ubers and taxis are also good options if you're carting a bunch of stuff. Getting to Kraków by rail is also straightforward from all major hubs throughout Europe. Tickets (always make an advance reservation) range from $25 to a max of $55. Rail is a great way to see some of Europe's most colorful terrain. Poland is a major exporter of oil seed, and its mustard-yellow flowers cover meadows from horizon to horizon. The Kraków Główny train station is located in the city center. Roadtripping? The drive through Poland is outstanding. The roads (even the super speedy expressways) are scenic and chock-full of historical artifacts that date from as far back as the 11th century. Keep your eyes open for some truly breathtaking war memorials -- commemorating a fascinating history of royal houses, conquest and re-conquest, holy wars, and everything in between. Virtually every town is home to a structure with a fascinating history and unforgettable artistry, from the few surviving and truly mind-boggling wooden churches and baroque temples built in the1600s, to the awe-inspiring sculptures and statues that seem to adorn every street corner and building facade. Poland has taken its emergence from oppressive regime after oppressive regime and made the most of it. The country is absolutely thriving, taking a thoughtful approach to preserving its cultural heritage even as it makes great economic leaps forward. This is evidenced by the incredible care to re-purpose and restore its heralded architecture instead of bull-dozing and paving over great swaths of history. So, yeah, drive if you can! The 86mph roadtrip is a thing! Formerly a moat, this 3kms of green space walking paths are conveniently named, esp. for English speakers: Hello, Planty! Where to Stay in Kraków You’ll likely focus the bulk of your explorations around Kraków’s Old Town. The charming enclave was the city’s political center as far back as 1038. What was once a 3km encircling perimeter wall has since been transformed into a green space (locally called the Planty), replete with tree-covered walking paths, lazy eateries, and plenty of fantastic people-watching. The sidewalks within this area are the most stroller-friendly. Streets and walkways across the remainder of the city are grouted stone like you’d find in most European cities. There is no shortage of decent accommodations throughout Kraków. No, I’m serious. There are hundreds of them, and there are really no areas to avoid. The entire city is very walkable, with the majority of its sights tightly packed in and around Old Town. Indeed, it’s because of that excellent walkability that you can avoid paying a premium to stay right inside Old Town. WS&T Hotel Tip: An important consideration when booking your stay in Kraków is proximity to tram lines. Passing trams reverberate through even the thickest stone walls. We’ve stayed near one busy intersection, and let me just say, thank God for the baby’s sound machine. You can see where the tram lines are before booking by toggling the overlay on Google or Apple Maps. OUR HOTEL RECOMMENDATIONS IN KRAKÓW Wawel Queen: Remember to swap your Ws for Vs in Poland and you’ll adore your stay at this ultra-conveniently located and reasonably priced 4-star accommodation. Steps from the castle. Polonia Hotel: Great deals can be found for this booking throughout the year. Be sure to request a room away from the tram side of the hotel. Most overlook the interior courtyard, which is lovely. The restaurant is excellent. Hotel Bogoria: Enjoy a quiet stay in this 15-century building, excellently priced with some surprisingly large rooms. If you’re planning a trip to the Jewish Quarter, this is the most conveniently located of our picks. Every bit as good as it looks. A Dodger dog's got nothing on these wienies. How to eat Kraków? One Bite at a Time! The city’s restaurants offer a wide array of richly adorned Polish classics executed wonderfully, but it’s Kraków’s street food scene that we adore. Whether you’re strollering with children or just a big fan of finding all your decadent Eastern European comfort foods in one place, look no farther than Old Town’s Main Market Square. Fishes! Pierogis! We loved the food. Several dozen booths promise the best of Polish assorted (and colored! ) pierogi, foot-long grilled kielbasa, mulled wine and cider, pastries, desserts, and so much more. Be sure to try a zapiekanka —Poland’s famous open-faced baguette slathered in sauteed goodies and melted cheese. If you hear someone mention Polish pizza, it’s the zapiekanka they’re talking about. Smoked goodness that squeaks when you eat it. Speaking of cheese, it’s along the aisles and rows of food stands both inside and outside in the Main Market Square where you can find some of Poland’s most delicious, cultured dairy from Earth’s sixth largest cheese producer and exporter. Try Oscypek , the gorgeously smoked sheep’s milk offering for a real taste of Poland’s rich cheese-making/mongering history. A few favorite eateries: Gossip Café for wonderful breakfasts and excellent coffee: here you’ll find a traditional Polish breakfast occupying the same menu as some French and American classics. Artisan Strudel for savory to sweet: this unassuming strudel shop uses local ingredients and old recipes. Try cinnamon and raisins or baked salmon with spinach topped with vanilla or garlic sauce. (I’ll leave you to decide which sauce goes with which.) Once Upon a Time in Kazimierz (aka Dawnu Temo Na Kazimierzu ) for a culinary immersion into the past: With its weathered floorboards, rustic wood furnishings and authentic Kraków artifacts, this restaurant honors the rich blend of Polish and Jewish heritage. Outside, its peeling signs, aged shutters and vintage shopfront display capture the charm of bygone days—making it as visually captivating as its menu. That also makes it a bit tricky to find the entrance. The exteriors are meant to capture the street as it was before World War II, but the shops are just a front for the dark, sultry restaurant and its outstanding fare. Camelot Café & Camelot LULU for a pre-lunch snack or a cozy liquid nightcap: The city’s most famous apple cake, homemade baked goods, meads, liqueurs and wines served with dried fruits and nuts, rich hot chocolates, and decadent pasta dishes. The little sister spot nearby features bagels and freshly baked challahs, soufflés and omelets. Try the lemon, truffle and pumpkin pierogi made piping hot at midday. Hedwig’s for Upscale Cocktails & Big Night Vibes: Located in a desacralized chapel built in the XIV Century, Hedwig’s melds heritage and old-world elegance with visionary design. It results in an unrivaled atmosphere in an exceptional venue. The club interiors are outrageously Insta-worthy, with day & night dining, a cocktail bar with signature cocktails and classy spirits, and a wine cellar. At night, it metamorphoses into an exclusive nightlife scene for an eclectic and cosmopolitan clientele with DJ every Friday and Saturday. Flash Trip Itinerary: 3 Days in Kraków, Poland Day 1 – Old‑Town Essentials This isn't an in-and-out kind of visit. Spec-tac-u-lar! Start your exploration of Kraków with a Sunrise Lap of the Planty.  Okay, maybe not so early (unless your kid's been wide-eyed since 5AM). But few tree-lined strolls are as feasty for the eyes as the 3km greenspace encircling Old Town. Next up, you have to explore the castle complex on Wawel Hill.  These cities in Europe are chock full of castles, each more weird and enchanting than the last. Wawel was a treat. We actually ended up splititng our visit in two because there was so much to see, so we returned on day 2 to finish our tour. Make sure you're not around when this thing rings! Pre‑book combo tickets for the Royal State Rooms and Cathedral, or purchase on-site if you're visiting during low season. There is plenty to see on the castle grounds, especially the memorable exhibit of elaborate Ottoman tents, captured by the Poles when King Sobieski won the Battle of Vienna in 1683. Yes, there is a quiz. When you’re ready, brave the wonderfully claustrophobic bell‑tower stairs inside Wawel Cathedral (separate ticket) to see the 12‑ton Sigismund Bell. You’ll have to duck several other impressive bells on your way to the top. A bit nerve-wracking but so worth it. Back in the main town square, where you'll be passing through several times a day, grab lunch at the very traditional and delicious Pod Gruszka restaurant. Then, explore the medieval Rynek Główny.  Hear the trumpeter’s hejnał  from St Mary’s every hour, and duck beneath the square into the brilliant Rynek Underground Museum, and souvenir‑shop the Cloth Hall after grabbing some delicious street fare. Getting in touch with history Collegium Maius.  Every two hours, wooden scholars parade out of a 15th‑century clock—Kraków’s mini‑cuckoo show. It’s not quite the spectacle of Prague’s Astronomical Clock, but it’s worth a peek. There are tons of churches and museums spiraling around the main square, and beyond - we wandered into several, the weirder the better! When the crowd was too big at the National Museum, we ended up at the Hutten-Czapski Museum of coins and botanical books. What can I say, my wife is obsessed with museums... We also used the kids' play area at the modern Bunkier Museum more than once. For dinner, check out our food recs or consider hanging in the central square to enjoy Kraków's street food options! Day 2 – Kazimierz & Podgórze We walked from Old Town to the Schindlera, taking in the beautiful view. We highly recommend touring Schindler’s Factory & Ghetto Trail.  Cross the Bernatek footbridge (check the acrobatic love‑lock sculptures!) into Podgórze. If a visit to Auschwitz sounds a bit too emotionally taxing, a guided tour of Schindler’s Enamel Factory offers an alternative, which still lays bare the period's complex horrors and pockets of unbreakable humanity. Deeply moving, the exhibits are wholly immersive, and our guide was passionate and knowlegable. It's a very popular site so definitely book ahead. Before or after the tour, have a Jewish Quarter roam.  Every Jewish landmark in this part of Europe is indelibly marked by the destruction and loss of the Holocaust, but like the more famed Jewish Quarter in Prague, Kraków's is still well worth a visit. Grab a cappucino at Hamsa, browse the stalls on Plac Nowy , pop into the Old Synagogue , and let your mind wander through history at the Remuh Cemetery . Dive deeper into the vibrant Jewish culture that once existed in Kraków at the Galicia Jewish Museum . You'll love a meal at Once Upon a Time in Kazimierz (aka Dawnu Temo Na Kazimierzu see above for deets); Evie's Ashkenazi heart was swooning over the "Jewish caviar" and many other delectibles. The Kazimierz is also the top nightlife spot in Kraków. Depending on your interests, you can find dive bars and pub crawls (Evie definitely did one of these in her backpacking days, and it was great), cocktail lounges, and live music. Day 3 – Hidden Kraków There are plenty of day-trips around the city of Kraków for the adventuresome traveler - see below! But if you'd like to keep things closer to the urban center, continue exploring some of Kraków's many cultural offerings. You can also just circle the Planty, taking in the numerous outdoor sculptures and views. A few other highlighs within the city: • Czartoryski Museum.  Arrive at opening to admire da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine minus the crowd. Pic. Tur. Esque. • Milk‑bar brunch.  Bar Mleczny Pod Temidą: pierogi ruskie, dill‑kissed beet soup and bottomless kompot. • Nowa Huta adventure.  Tram #4 gets you to a socialist‑realist “model city.” • MOCAK  (contemporary art) & Cricoteka  (Kantor’s avant‑garde theatre) for the pulse of Polish culture. • Ethnographic Museum  (Kazimierz town hall)—excellent folk‑costume dress‑up station. • Tyniec Abbey  boat cruise: 1.5 h round‑trip for monk‑brewed mead and honey. WS&T Bratpacker Tip: Buy a 48‑hour Kraków Card if you’ll hit 3+ paid attractions—it covers most museums and transit. • Hands‑on evening.  Book a pierogi‑making class or join a family‑friendly vodka‑and‑pickle tasting—yes, there's juice for under‑agers and non-imbibers! Feeling a bit more ambitious for Day 3? Optional (Trevor says, "No, not optional") Side Trip from Krakow! Cathedral several hundred feet below ground. Even the chandeliers are carved salt crystal. I am scared of being underground. At one time, I might have also asked, "What's the big deal?" After having visited and toured Slovenia's Postojna Cave Park and now the Wieliczka Salt Mine (not to mention Carlsbad and San Antonio's Natural Bridge Caverns), I am still scared of being underground. But I push those nerves way down because WOW. The Wielicka Mine outside Kraków offer not just a glimpse into 700(!) years of near-incomprehensible work beneath the Earth's surface. They also provide a fascinating peek into what I can only describe as another world, a world inhabited by some truly extraordinary people -- miners, sculptors, religious and political figures. It's too incredible to see fabric folds carved into rock! The Mines would be better described as a subterranean Atlantis, a veritable hidden city replete in churches, chapels, cathedrals (all ancient), and even malls, meetings halls, and concert venues (all modern-adorned). It's not that you ever really get past the fact that you're several hundred feet below ground, but that you're standing in a massive mineral-carved cathedral staring up at chandelier with thousands of twinkling salt crystals throwing prisms of light in every direction. Innumerable alcoves containing richly detailed sculptures hewn right from the Earth, hollowed and glowing with amber light. Even for the non-spiritual, it's a powerful experience. I should't post too many pics, because they won't do justice. But more simply, you've got to see it for yourself. I simply can't recommend the Wieliczka Salt Mine enough. BEST DAY TRIPS FROM KRAKÓW Destination Travel Time (one‑way) Why Go Need‑to‑Know Wieliczka Salt Mine 30 min train Cathedrals, plaza-sized chambers, saline lakes, salt crystal chandeliers cut from salt. Tours ≈ 2 .5h; climate-controlled 14 °C year‑round—pack a sweater & grippy shoes. Auschwitz‑Birkenau Memorial 1 h 30 m bus A sobering, essential history lesson. Pre‑book timed entry; allow 3.5 h on site. Older kids (12+) only. Ojców National Park & Pieskowa Skała Castle 45 min drive / 60 min bus #210 Jurassic limestone cliffs, “Hercules’ Club” rock, fairytale castle courtyard. Easy family hike; picnic on local smoked trout. Zakopane & the Tatras 2 h bus Funicular panoramas, high‑lander culture, and smoked oscypek  with cranberry jam. Weather shifts fast—carry layers. Long but doable side-flash trip if you depart by 7:00 a.m. Bochnia Salt Mine 45 min train Older than Wieliczka; underground ferry and 140 m slide! Slightly less crowded, English tours 10:30 & 15:30. WS&T Money Tip: Stay far, far away from the ever-present Euronet ATM. Fees are extortionate. Even checking your balance has been known to incur a charge. Better yet, get an ATM-friendly card from an issuer who offers refunds of ATM transaction fees. Kraków’s cultural and historical layers will linger long after you leave. Just like most places nowadays, there is Instagram overkill at certain touristy spots. But if you're into cultural immersion, you still can escape the crowds and get your history on. Poland has given the world some of Earth's finest artists, designers, musicians, and thinkers. So, there is more than enough culture to get well and truly lost in this special country. One final confession: Even after living in New York and eating my fair share of pierogi, I'm embarrassed to admit that I packed my travel-sized hot sauce for the trip to Poland. Rich, the food is. Bland, it is not. Consider this an apology. I won't make that mistake again. So many flash trips, so little time. Thankfully, we've curated our 3-day getaways to captivate your adventuresome spirit. Check out more trips and get inspired to go with or without the kids in tow! Wanna Make Your Flash Trip Even Better?  Click below to check out some curated picks for making life easier when traveling with (and without) small children. Visit GEAR UP  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials

Travel Rewards Credit Cards: Are They Worth it for Families? If you’ve ever dreamed of flying your family to Europe for $12 thanks to credit card points, you’ve probably seen a shiny ad or two about travel rewards cards. Here’s the truth: points are great if you know how to use them – but they’re not free money. Most of us don’t have the ability to spend $50K on our credit cards and reap the rewards, not to mention the schedule flexibility to take advantage of flight deals.   So, what’s a WS&T devotee to do? TRAVEL CREDIT CARD INDEX Jump To: The Basics of Travel Credit Cards Using Points Like a Pro Chase Sapphire Reserve Chase Sapphire Preferred Other Travel Card Options: Amex Platinum and Capital One Venture X ATM Fee Reimbursements The Basics of Travel Credit Cards Earning Points : You earn points by spending money, and those points can be redeemed for travel perks. Annual Fees : Many travel cards have hefty annual fees, but the perks (e.g., travel credits, lounge access) can offset the cost. Best for Regular Travelers : If your family travels often, the rewards can add up. WS&T Tip: Check out folks like The Points Guy and John Liang to do your own research. If you tend to stick to domestic or European travel, you may want to pick an airline and apply specifically for their credit card (taking advantage of the signing bonus) and then rack up both points and status on that particular airline. Using Points Like a Pro Use points for flights or hotel stays where you’ll get the most value. Look for signup bonuses (e.g., spend $4,000 in 3 months and get 60,000 points). Hit the spending quota within the first few months to unlock the signup bonus points. At the time of writing, you’ll need to spend $4,000 in the first three months. I put some of my big bills on the card, like our family’s health insurance (Gee thanks, USA), so it’s pretty easy to hit that spend quota. Transfer points strategically—some cards partner with airlines or hotels for better redemption rates. Another huge plus: built-in travel insurance and car rental insurance , so you can skip paying extra for those. However, be sure to read the fine print. For instance, if you rely on the card’s car rental coverage, you have to decline the rental agency’s insurance. You might need to pay out of pocket for damages initially and be reimbursed afterward, so understand the policy thoroughly to avoid surprises. It's also great to have a travel credit card that doesn't charge transaction fees while you're abroad. Finally, My credit card company is also my first line of defense for tricky overcharges or any issues with billing. They'll argue your case with the vendor so you don't have to. WS&T Tip: It's key to pay off your balance in full each month. Those points aren’t worth sky-high interest fees. It takes a bit of digging and research to unlock all the card’s benefits, but the bottom line is simple: spend money, earn points, redeem for travel.  On average, I manage to get a couple of free flights or car rentals every year with my Sapphire points—which I definitely consider worth it! So, what is the best travel rewards credit card? There are so many to choose from! Our top pick used to be the Chase Sapphire Reserve, hands down. But beginning October 26, 2025, the card is undergoing a major "refresh," which we believe turns it more into a luxury/lifestyle card than a workhorse, all-purpose travel rewards credit card. If you're reading this while Chase is offering an eye-popping 100,000 point + $500 travel credit sign-up bonus, it's worth it to snag the card (at least for a year, then consider a downgrade based on how much you use the other perks). If the offer has passed or you are already a Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholder, closely consider the offered benefits to decide if Chase is right for you. If not, there are several strong competitors worth your consideration. Chase Sapphire Reserve Perks and Benefits I've been a longtime Chase Sapphire Reserve devotee, but the jury's out on how beneficial I'll find the new perk structure... I'll update this article after the October 26, 2025 makeover date with my thoughts on the new perk structure. My plan right now is to try it for a year and really see how much I use the perks, then decide if I want to keep it or downgrade to the Preferred. They offer a pro-rated refund of the annual fee if you do decide to downgrade. Here is the new perk structure, as of October 26, 2025: Annual Fee:  $795 Authorized User Fee: $195 Annual Travel Credit:  $300 This credit automatically applies to your account each year, refunding travel-related expenses until you reach $300. I usually see these credits within about a week—which is a nice perk! Effectively, this brings the card’s net annual fee closer to $495, though that $795 upfront hit hurts. Travel and Auto Insurance (read the fine print!) TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry Fee Reimbursement Access to Sapphire Lounges and Priority Pass Lounges Complimentary Lyft Pink (1 Year; Activation Required) + $10 per month in credit - available once you link your card in the app Complimentary DoorDash DashPass (1 Year; Activation Required) + $10 per month in credit - available once you link your card in the app $300 Annual Dining Credit (up to $150 in statement credits biannually) for dining at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables (through OpenTable or on the website) $500 Credit for stays with The Edit: a handpicked collection of 1,000+ (expensive!) hotels and resorts (up to $250 in statement credits biannually) Complimentary IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status through December 31, 2027 (activation required) Complimentary subscription to Apple TV+ and Apple Music (activation required) $300 StubHub and viagogo credit (up to $150 in statement credits biannually) $10 per month in Peloton subscription credit If you go through all of that and aren't exhausted by the complexity of maximizing the perks, the next question is how much you actually use the services they partner with. I use the Pre-Check refund, the lounge access, travel and rented auto insurance, DoorDash credits + Dash Pass, and Lyft credits + Lyft Pink. It's unlikely I'm going to use the Edit credits, Peloton, or StubHub. Everyone has to do their own math to see if the big fee is worth it. Then there's the point-earning structure, which is undergoing a major overhaul, which feels like a mixed bag. Under the new plan: Hotels booked through Chase Travel: 8x points per dollar spent Rental cars booked through Chase Travel: 8x Flights booked through Chase Travel: 8x Flights booked directly with airlines: 4x Hotels booked directly: 4x All other travel (cruises, vacation rentals, transit): 1x Dining purchases: 3x Eligible Lyft rides: 5x Eligible Peloton purchases: 10x They're getting rid of a 1.5x point value for Chase Travel bookings, and instead will be offering a "Point Boost" where you can redeem points for up to 2x their value... but only on selected offerings of flights and hotels. It remains to be seen how enticing these offers will be. You can still transfer points at a 1:1 ratio  to a range of travel partners, which makes it easy to turn everyday spending into free or discounted flights, hotel stays, and more. Chase Sapphire Preferred Perks and Benefits Who is this D. Barrett, anyway? Chase also offers the Chase Sapphire Preferred  for a much cheaper annual fee ($95 vs. $795). It has a different perk structure than the reserve, but it's much more affordable and may be a better fit for you and your family. At the time of writing, the Preferred is also offering a 100,000 point sign up bonus, so check it out... it is a really solid choice! See below for a perk breakdown. Annual Fee:  $95 Authorized User Fee:  $0 Annual Hotel Credit:  $50 on hotel bookings made through Chase Travel (automatically applied after purchase) Annual Anniversary 10% Points Bonus: Each year you'll get 10% of the points you've spent over the past year (i.e. if you've spent 50K points, you'll get a bonus of 5K points) Complimentary DoorDash DashPass (1 Year; Activation Required) + $10 per month in credit - available once you link your card in the app Major cons vs. the Reserve: No lounge access, no TSA Precheck/Global entry reimbursement, no travel credit. Then there's the point-earning structure, which is undergoing a major overhaul, which feels like a mixed bag. Under the new plan: Hotels booked through Chase Travel:  5x points per dollar spent Rental cars booked through Chase Travel:  5x Flights booked through Chase Travel:  5x Flights booked directly with airlines:  2x Hotels booked directly:  2x Eligible Lyft rides:  5x Select Streaming Services: 3x All other purchases:  1x They're also offering a "Point Boost" where you can redeem points for up to 1.75x their value... but only on selected offerings of flights and hotels. It remains to be seen how enticing these offers will be. You can still transfer points at a 1:1 ratio  to a range of travel partners, which makes it easy to turn everyday spending into free or discounted flights, hotel stays, and more. If you'd like to go for the Chase Sapphire Reserve or Preferred, consider applying via my referral link. For a limited time, you can get 100,000 bonus points if you get the Chase Sapphire Preferred card.   You'll always earn 60,000 bonus points with the Chase Sapphire® Reserve card.  I can be rewarded if you apply  here  and are approved for the card. The Other Guys: Amex Platinum and Capital One Venture X Rewards There are strong arguments to be made for both of these cards, so here's an overview of the perks and differences between them. Amex Platinum Perks and Benefits With a hefty price tag (though not as high as the new Sapphire Reserve, so sad), this is more of a luxury travel card and it takes some work to maximize the (many!) perks. Annual Fee:  $695 Authorized User Fee:  $195 per person for lounge access (up to 3 authorized users at that rate) Airline Fee Credit:  Up to $200 per calendar year (for incidental fees like checked bags or seat selection on one selected airline) Hotel Credit:  $200 annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings made through AmexTravel.com Uber Cash:  Up to $200 annually ($15/month, plus a $20 bonus in December) – must add card to Uber app Digital Entertainment Credit:  $240/year ($20/month) toward eligible subscriptions like Hulu, Disney+, Peacock, and more Saks Fifth Avenue Credit:  $100/year ($50 every 6 months) CLEAR® Plus Credit:  Up to $189/year for CLEAR membership Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Credit:  Up to $100 every 4 years Equinox Credit:  Up to $300/year – for eligible Equinox memberships Walmart+ Credit:  Monthly credit to cover full cost of Walmart+ membership (includes free delivery and Paramount+) Priority Pass Lounge Access:  Included (enrollment required) Centurion Lounge Access:  Included – this is a huge perk if you fly through airports that have them Hilton Honors Gold Status:  Included (enrollment required) Marriott Bonvoy Gold Status:  Included (enrollment required) Major cons vs. other cards: High annual fee, credits are spread out monthly and require activation/enrollment, no flat-rate earning for everyday purchases. When it comes to points: Flights booked through Amex Travel:  5x points Flights booked directly with airlines:  5x Prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel:  5x All other purchases:  1x You can also transfer points to over 20 travel partners at a 1:1 ratio — including Delta, British Airways, and Singapore Airlines. Capital One Venture X Perks and Benefits The Capital One Venture X is an up-and-comer, and a lot of people are saying they really love the card's benefits and midrange price tag. Annual Fee:  $395 Authorized User Fee:  $0 – and they get their own lounge access! Annual Travel Credit:  $300 per year for bookings through Capital One Travel (applies automatically, but you've got to go through the portal) Anniversary Bonus:  10,000 miles each year (equal to $100+ toward travel) Priority Pass Lounge Access:  Included for you and authorized users Capital One Lounges:  Access included (currently in select airports, with more on the way) Hertz President’s Circle Status:  Complimentary Major pros: Lower annual fee than comparable cards, super easy-to-use travel credit, free authorized users with full perks Major cons: Travel credit must be used through Capital One Travel portal (not direct bookings) Now for the point structure: Hotels & rental cars through Capital One Travel:  10x miles Flights through Capital One Travel:  5x All other purchases:  2x miles – every time, no categories to track Points can be transferred to a growing list of airline and hotel partners (including Air Canada Aeroplan, Turkish Airlines, and Singapore KrisFlyer), or redeemed for any travel purchase at a flat 1 cent per mile — so 50,000 miles = $500 toward travel. Real Talk: Manage Your Expectations If you’re not a frequent traveler or high spender, don’t stress about maximizing points. A good cashback card might work better for your family’s needs. ATM Fee Reimbursements: A Budget Traveler’s Secret Weapon One of my favorite travel hacks is using a bank account or debit card that refunds your ATM fees —no matter where in the world you are. There’s nothing worse than realizing you’ve just shelled out half the cost of your morning flat white simply for the privilege of withdrawing your own money. A few big players in this space are: Charles Schwab Bank High Yield Investor Checking : Unlimited worldwide ATM fee reimbursements. Fidelity Cash Management Account : Also reimburses ATM fees globally. Some credit unions  or online banks occasionally offer fee reimbursements (though terms may vary by month or location). Keep an eye on any monthly reimbursement caps or minimum balance requirements, and note that foreign transaction fees  could still apply if you’re using a standard debit or credit card (though many of these accounts waive those, too). Dodging those “gotcha” ATM fees can free up a surprising amount of extra cash. Our Favorite Gear for Kid & Baby Travel?   Click below to check out some curated picks for making life easier when traveling with (and without) small children. Visit GEAR UP  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials Copyright © WS&T. All rights reserved.

So, what is there to do in Orlando besides visit the big theme parks? Plenty! Downtown Orlando's Lake Eola When you think Orlando, you think Disney World right? But there’s much more to the city than its ginormous theme parks. Work recently took me and the fam to Orlando for the first time, where we were determined to experience everything Orlando had to offer outside of the parks. We were pleasantly surprised to discover a huge variety of activities, sights, and food to enjoy off the beaten path, most of which has far fewer crowds than you’ll find elsewhere around the city. AJ loved it! The rumors are true. AJ was the coolest kid at the lake. Orlando is known around the world as home to the world’s biggest theme parks and we learned some WILD facts about the city. For instance, 2024 saw a record 75 million annual visitors, putting it at the very top of the list for most-visited cities in the United States (seriously! Fact-check me!). It sees more annual visitors than the whole country of Italy! Mind blown. The vast majority of those visitors head to the big-name parks, but the city has a ton to offer outside of its (insanely!) popular attractions. So, if you have a few extra days around your theme park visit, or you’re visiting Orlando for work or family, OR you’re just not a theme park girlie/guy-ie, this guide is for you! ORLANDO OUTSIDE THE THEME PARKS INDEX: Jump To: Weather and When to Visit Packing Essentials Getting There and Getting Around Where to Stay Where to Eat So, What Should I Do in Orlando Outside the Theme Parks? Museums and Culture Non-Park Family Activities The Great Outdoors Eatonville: Hometown of Zora Neale Hurston Orlando Weather and When To Visit Every season in Orlando has its pros and cons… the cons mainly being massive, massive crowds during the high seasons. But, since this is a guide to the lesser-known parts of Orlando, you really won’t face the same crazy crowding as the parks. So, there’s really no bad time to go if you’re prepared! A little rain never hurt anyone! You’ll find the nicest weather in the winter (Dec–Feb) , with temps in the 70s and much less heat/humidity. Spring (Mar–May) warms into the 80s with low humidity, making it one of the most pleasant times to visit. Summer (Jun–Sep) is hot, humid, and stormy, with daily afternoon thunderstorms and highs in the 90s. We visited for a few weeks in June and the heat was no joke, though many (most!) attractions and restaurants blast A/C. The storms came frequently but didn’t last for long and often happened in the afternoon on a fairly predictable schedule. Fall (Oct–Nov) brings relief with cooler temps, lower humidity, and fewer crowds, so it’s a solid choice if you have the scheduling flexibility. Packing Essentials Orlando is a shorts-and-t-shirt kind of city, where even the more upscale spots don’t get too fancy. Maybe throw in a sundress or button-down if you’re planning to eat out. If you’re traveling in the summer, pack an umbrella. We opted for umbrellas over raincoats because raincoats were just too hot. Go for sandals that can get wet, and don’t forget your hat, sunscreen, and water bottle. This is a good opportunity for a stroller fan too! AJ definitely heated up and her little cheeks got red sometimes (prompting us to take breaks inside), but she didn’t seem to mind the weather. Getting There and Getting Around Always be nice to the locals. Orlando knows what’s up when it comes to tourist infrastructure, so everything tends to be smooth sailing. The airport is on the small side given the crazy volume of visitors it hosts, but there’s a super easy tram which takes you to/from the gates, and then you can walk to baggage claim. One really nice thing about the Orlando airport is that you can walk right across the street to the rental car pickup area: no shuttles needed. Find the indoor rental car check-in areas, then exit from the doors directly opposite those counters. Listen to the crazed crosswalk sign, then enter the big parking garage across the way. Follow the signs to your rental car agency and badda boom! We highly recommend renting a car in Orlando; if you want to explore beyond the walls of the parks, it’s really the only good option. WS&T Kid Travel Tip: Orlando sees so many family visitors, that it’s singularly well-equipped for kid tourists. If you’d like to rent a car seat, stroller, or any other baby equipment, you can easily do so at the airport. In fact, some rental companies like Baby Quip even have counters at the airport! Where to Stay in Orlando  Each of the major theme parks exists in its own zone in the Greater Orlando area, so if you’re going to Disney you’re most likely staying in Lake Buena Vista, or Southwest Orlando for Universal. Orlando = Nonstop Fun DOWNTOWN ORLANDO We stayed right in the heart of downtown Orlando, right next to Lake Eola park. Downtown Orlando is curiously sleepy for such a major tourist destination, and while it has a certain seediness (and its fair share of unhoused people), we actually really enjoyed it. It’s walkable and weird, and felt plenty welcoming for all kinds of people. While you’ll still be driving a lot (because… Florida), it’s fairly central. It doesn’t draw a lot of visitors, but we really enjoyed our stay here. WINTER PARK Winter Park is a neighborhood a bit northeast of downtown Orlando, which is very lovely and charming. The neighborhood is walkable, with nice restaurants and a few museums right in town and several others a short drive away. It’s quaint, relaxing feel is worlds away from theme park chaos. KISSIMMEE If you’re really into the wide array of outdoor activities that Orlando has to offer, you might want Tranquil Kissimmee to consider staying south of the city in Kissimmee. This area is a bit more remote; check Airbnb or VRBO for vacation rental options. If you want more of a suburban feel outside of the city, this area might fit the bill. INTERNATIONAL DRIVE Commonly known as I-Drive, is the major highway running through Orlando, along which you can find a ton of accommodation options and activities of all stripes. It’s also close to the parks, so it’s probably the top area for park visitors looking for slightly cheaper accommodation. If you don’t mind long-ish drives to many activities, this could be a good option, though beware the big ol’ highway and commercial feel. OUR HOTEL RECOMMENDATIONS IN ORLANDO Aloft Orlando Downtown: We don’t always recommend big chain hotels, but that is sort of the name of the game in Orlando. Aloft is a well-priced and very centrally located option in downtown Orlando, and it has sort of a fun, communal vibe. Wellborn Hotel Downtown: This is a Marriott takeover of a beachy, coastal-feeling hotel with clean, homey rooms and a lovely garden. Well-priced and well-located, though you have the pros and cons of being close to the freeway. Grand Bohemian Downtown: Another Marriott (get those points!) option that’s more of a splurge. Beware the expensive valet and dining options, but this is a very nice, swanky hotel with great facilities. If you’d like to stay in Winter Park, the Park Plaza Hotel is a boutique hotel with old-world charm and great service. Also very well priced. Where to Eat in Orlando Thanks to a contingent of creative chefs and many robust immigrant communities, Orlando boasts a nice foodie scene. Here were our top picks, in a range of locations and price points! Domu:  One of our favorite meals in Orlando, this is a semi-upscale Japanese spot that won’t disappoint. Try their signature ramen and get the chicken wings. They don’t take reservations, so arrive early. Pizza Bruno: Really good pizza.   The Monroe: American lunch/dinner spot which feels approachable with an art deco flair. Specializing in fancy fried chicken.   Kabooki Sushi: A little pricey but high-quality sushi. We got take-out, but it’s definitely a see-and-be-seen spot!   Hawkers: Fun Asian food court with a variety of options. Coro Restaurant: Super creative and memorable meal, even for AJ! You can tell the restaurant staff is passionate about their food, and we loved the experience! Smokemade Meats + Eats: Dig into some classic BBQ here.   Garp & Fuss: We had a very nice lunch here in Winter Park after the Morse Museum. Great sandwiches, salads, and burgers. Caravan Uzbek & Turkish Cusine: Delish, authentic Uzbek/Turkish restaurant very close to the airport. It was our first stop off the plane. Augie got some love from the ladies at Caravan Kaya: I was dying to go to this elevated Filipino spot but we didn’t make it… please try it for me!   Hunger Street Tacos or Black Rooster Taqueria for your Mexican fix. So, What Should I Do in Orlando Outside the Theme Parks? The great question is finally answered below! I’ve divided the activity recommendations into three broad categories: museums and culture, non-park family activities, and the great outdoors. I also included a section on visiting Eatonville, a unique place which was one of the first incorporated Black municipalities in the United States. Let’s dive in. Museums and Culture There are quite a few unexpectedly cool museums dotted around Orlando, so you’ll want to check them out if you love interesting cultural experiences.   Winter Park: The Winter Park area boasts several museums and gardens to visit, so it’s a great place to spend a full day, pop in from downtown, or even stay overnight. Gorgeous stained glass at the Morse First, the Morse Museum (aka the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Cart) is a total must-see. I was floored by the beauty of the collection and the historic building itself. Mr. Morse and his wife Jeanette Genius McKean (great name) amassed the world’s largest collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany’s works, all gorgeously displayed in this museum, paneled and floored in velvety brown wood. You’ll see Tiffany stained glass, ceramics, lamps, and so much more, as well as works related to and inspired by Tiffany’s unique art. Even AJ loved it!   Grab lunch on the cute main street in Winter Park (try Garp & Fuss!), then drive a few miles to Stroll the tranquil gardens of the Leu the Harry P. Leu Botanical Gardens , where you can stroll through 50 acres of beautifully maintained flowers and plants. As with everything in Orlando, it’s stroller-friendly. The Gardens have long hours, but if you’re there during midday Tues-Sun (excluding July), you can also visit the 1888 Leu House Museum on the grounds.   You can also check out the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour , a kid-friendly, 1-hour pontoon ride through the lakes, canals, and historic residences of the neighborhood. The tours are first-come, first-served and leave every hour from 10AM-4PM.   In Winter Park you’ll also find the Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Garden , which has a small contemporary gallery and a 40-minute guided tour of the skilled bronze sculptor’s historic home.   When we visited, the Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum was temporarily closed, but check back – it looked very cool. Loch Haven Park Just north of downtown Orlando, you’ll find a cluster of lakes (though that doesn’t narrow it down in Orlando…): Lake Formosa, Lake Rowena, and Lake Estelle. After a short, picturesque drive, you’ll arrive at an area with two interesting museums: the Mennello Museum of American Art which houses a small, quirky art and sculpture collection and the Orlando Museum of Art . The latter has rotating exhibits of contemporary art in a lovely building.   This is also where you’ll find the Orlando Science Center – more on this below! Downtown Orlando Creatures abound at Eola! If you’re staying downtown, there are several great activity options. First, take a stroll around Lake Eola , a charming lake with a circular path which will take you through a plethora of absolutely enormous swans and ducks (we were there during gosling/cygnet season!), many waterbirds, ibises (the pigeons of Florida), and more. It was a veritable zoo out there; AJ had a blast!   Downtown Orlando has the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts , a stunning, new-ish addition to the cultural landscape which boasts several different venues, from a symphony hall to a Broadway-caliber stage to a more intimate concert venue (Judson’s Live). Check out the offerings to see if there are any performances during your visit; it’s well worth it!   Right in the heart of downtown, you’ll also find the Orange County Regional History Center , which is actually an offshoot of the Smithsonian Museum. There are a whopping five floors of regional history, with some kid-friendly interactive activities and a ton of interesting historical and ecological information.   You can also check out the CityArts Factory , a collection of small galleries featuring rotating artists – for free!   Just outside downtown Orlando, you’ll find the Wells’Built Museum of African American History & Culture in the Parramore District. The museum is housed in a well-preserved former hotel which hosted many famous Black musicians during the Jim Crow era. Now you can browse fascinating exhibits on Black history and culture in the region. Non-Theme Park Family Activities If you’re traveling with kids or want to mix up your museum/kayaking adventures with more big-scale fun, there are several great places to visit which I’d call “theme park adjacent.”   The Space Center was truly awe-inspiring! The Kennedy Space Center lies about an hour east of downtown Orlando. It’s a bit on the pricey side ($77 for adult standard ticket, $67 for kids) but it ends up being a full day if you explore everything, so we found it to be a great splurge. T was so excited to go and I have to admit that I was a little bit skeptical, not being a big space-head (?) myself. But the Space Center is genuinely awesome and awe-some; they do a great job of making you feel amazed and inspired by space exploration. It’s also just so cool to see these giant rockets up close. You can even see an actual rocket launch if you’re there on the right day! We really enjoyed it and now AJ wants to be an astronaut! Gatorland ! I know I said no theme parks, but Gatorland is actually Orlando’s original theme park and it’s definitely more laid-back and user-friendly than the big ones. It abounds with huuuuge gators, many of whom are rescues and/or part of the organization’s conservation efforts. You can do a zip line over gator-laden waters, feed the gators, or just gaze at the impressive beasties and many other animals. The staff is very passionate about the animals, and you’ll learn a lot – and demystify the big reptiles a bit. There’s also a splash pad for the littles! It’s located about 19 miles south of downtown Orlando and is well priced at $35 for adults and $25 for kids aged 3-12. Some big boy denizens of Gatorland... The Orlando Science Center, located in Loch Haven Park, is an epic science discovery center geared towards kids (but fun for the whole fam). There are tons of interactive exhibits exploring STEM, a planetarium, live science demos, and a huge zone for kids to run around. Like the Kennedy Center, this can easily be a full day. This is a popular spot and draws quite a lot of visitors, so arrive early (especially if visiting on the weekend). These were our top picks, but friends and fellow parents have raved about the Crayola Experience (70,000 square feet of play space, oh my!), Dinosaur World (especially for littler kids), and the Orlando Watersports Complex (especially for older kids with lots of energy). The Great Outdoors Orlando has over 100 lakes within the city limits, and many more in the surrounding areas. When you fly into the city, you’ll get a great overhead view of the watery terrain. It’s quite beautiful and makes for some twisty roads! Not only are the lakes picturesque, but they provide many opportunities for outdoor activities – great for all ages. If you want a little nature immersion, Orlando offers plenty of spots to kayak, canoe, paddleboard, boat, or bike! Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding: You’ll find no shortage of places to rent kayaks or SUPs and explore on your own or take a guided tour. There are a ton of options, but we had a great experience with Epic Paddle Adventures, one of a small group of companies that offers clear kayak tours in various locations in and around Orlando. I’ve done a lot of kayaking in my time (my family used to do Spring break in southwestern Florida, way back in the day) but I’d never experienced a clear kayak before – it was so cool! You can rent boats or take an “urban tour” right in town on Lake Ivanhoe, or you can go a little bit further afield to Silver Springs. Silver Springs is about 90 minutes north of downtown Orlando, but well worth making a day trip. The Silver Springs tour will take you through mangrove forest where year-round you can spot manatees, gators, turtles, monkeys, and many, many waterbirds. All ages and skill levels welcome. During manatee season (Nov 15-March 31) you can also take a special manatee tour to see these big, sweet cows of the sea up close. Ibises (Ibi?) for days. WS&T Tip: If you’re really into manatees (or you want to be), check out Blue Springs State Park which is a major migration area for manatees during the season! At certain times of year, you can also go on an evening bioluminescence tour – we didn’t get the chance to do this as AJ was too little, but we’ve heard it’s amazing. Get Up and Go Kayaking offers similar tours as well as a Winter Park option – you can’t go wrong either way. So many of Orlando’s lakes offer kayaks or paddleboards for rent, so if you’re in a specific area you’re likely to find options very close by. Airboat Tours: There are a few spots to do airboat tours, but we picked Wild Florida – located about an hour south of downtown Orlando in Kenansville, right on the headwaters of the Everglades. The guides are super passionate and experienced, and they’ll take you bird and gator spotting through the area’s beautiful wetlands. Cheesin' Wild Florida also has a small zoo with some fun animal encounters and a drive-through “safari” where you can experience the fun of a giraffe sticking its head in your window. They have really big tongues.   Tubing: At Rock Springs Run State Reserve – a tributary feeding the Wekiva River Basin – you can rent inner tubes at Kelly Park and enjoy this 68-degree natural oasis. Ahhhh.   Hiking: Depending on how crazy hot it is while you’re visiting, you may want to explore Orlando’s natural world on foot. Try the Orlando Wetlands Park in the town of Christmas for 1600 acres of preserved wetlands. In this peaceful setting, you’ll find boardwalks, birdwatching towers, and not-infrequent alligator sightings – it’s a hidden gem. You can find relatively easy, well-manicured boardwalk trails at the Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve , the Oakland Nature Preserve , the Hal Scott Regional Preserve , and the Split Oak Forest .   Biking: Rent bikes and enjoy 22 miles of paved road on the West Orange Trail, with entry points all along the route. Along the way, check out the butterfly garden at the Tildenville outpost.   I'm just gonna close my eyes for a second... All-In-One: Wekiwa Springs State Park has attracted visitors to its scenic, natural setting for over 100 years. Here you can find pretty much all the activities I listed above, from hiking trails to kayaking to swimming and snorkeling. It’s a very beautiful spot, but popular – reservations are required during peak season (March 12-Sept 1).   De Leon Springs State Park adds in a dose of history to the untamed natural environment. The park has a 6000-year history dating from its days as an oasis for the Macaya Native Americans. You can swim, snorkel, kayak, canoe, or go on a guided scuba tour. If you arrive early, you may be able to land a table at the Old Sugar Mill Pancake house, where you can customize and flip-your-own flapjacks.   If You’re Just Crazy Enough to Do It: You can actually swim with a gator through Crocodile Chris’s Underwater Gator Tour. Book an appointment, pay $250, meet at the Everglades Outpost Wildlife Rescue and voilà… unbeatable Florida story. Eatonville Just six miles north of Orlando, you can stop in historic Eatonville : one of the oldest incorporated Black municipalities in the United States, and famously the home of author/national treasure Zora Neale Hurston. In Mules and Men , Hurston describes her hometown thus: “It was a city of five lakes, three croquet courts, three hundred brown skins, three hundred good swimmers, plenty guavas, two schools, and no jailhouse.” In the hostile Jim Crow south, Eatonville was a true oasis.   Visit The Hurston , the Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts, which showcases rotating exhibits focused on Black and African diaspora art. (Note: it has limited hours— open weekdays only, 11 AM to 2 PM , and closed on weekends.) You can also explore the Moseley House Museum , a beautifully preserved 1888 home that brings Eatonville’s past to life. The town blossoms during the annual ZORA! Festival , a celebration of Black culture, arts, and storytelling that draws artists from across the country. Nikki's Place deliciousness. You’ll eat well during your visit to Eatonville! Try the bold veg Caribbean fare and creamy vegan ice cream at Dajen Eats Café & Creamery . Hit up BBQ Boys for ribs, pulled pork, and classic sides. Check out Nikki’s Place in nearby Parramore for smothered pork chops and oxtails, or Shantell’s Just Until in Sanford for Jamaican-meets-Southern comfort food. Enjoy Your Visit! We had a great time during our sojourn in Orlando – even better than we’d imagined. We hope you and your family enjoy exploring the city’s many offerings outside the big parks. There are so many unexpectedly wonderful experiences to be had! But don’t stop here… check out our guides for trips in the United States and beyond for endless adventure inspiration! Wanna Make Your Activities Even Better?  Click below to check out some curated picks for making life easier when traveling with (and without) small children. Visit GEAR UP  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials   Copyright © WS&T. All rights reserved.

Parents, these kid-friendly mass transit and metro guides represent our answer to the question: How will we navigate the quirks of public mass transit with small children? We've ridden the rides and we're here with the guides. More added as frequently as we can! NOTICE for Americans: Why You Have to Validate Tickets in Europe (And Why It Feels Weird) Even tickets need a little validation. In cities like Rome, Paris, Prague, Vienna, Lisbon, Porto, Berlin , Kraków  and many more, public transport relies on a validation system  rather than turnstiles or staffed checkpoints. Here's how it works: You buy a ticket , then you must validate it  before or upon boarding by stamping it in a small machine (usually yellow or orange). Same goes for the digital version. There's often a prompt in the official ticketing app that shows you the process. Some cities offer QR codes on the tram, bus, metro you're riding. You can scan it to validate as well. This starts the timer  on time-based passes (like Rome’s 100-minute BIT ticket). If you don’t validate it and get caught by an inspector (they board randomly), you can be fined—even if you have  a valid ticket. And believe me, the fines are typically not cheap. Why it’s strange for Americans : In the U.S., public transport typically uses gated entrances (like New York’s MTA or D.C.’s Metro) that check fares automatically. Americans aren’t used to the “honor system + random enforcement”  approach common across Europe. Lastly, when traveling Europe you start to take it for granted that everyone speaks a little English. Cue the record scratch. Ticket inspectors rarely do, so forget about trying to argue, beg for forgiveness, or plead ignorance. They've heard it so often, you may just get summarily booted from the bus. Kid-Friendly Public Transit Guide Index* *Adding more as soon as we can document our transit travel results with kid(s). Jump To: Azores Balkans Buenos Aires Guatemala (Antigua & Regional) Kraków Lisbon Mexico City New York City Porto Prague Rome Azores Transit Guide: Rock-Hopping the Atlantic Ocean The Azores archipelago's nine volcanic islands are mostly reached by plane due to distance. Getting around requires a little extra planning—but it's isolated, lush volcanic beauty at every turn. Special Considerations for Parents Strollers : Manageable in towns but tricky on cobbled streets and hiking areas. Baby Wearing : Highly recommended for trails and uneven surfaces. Car Seats : Required in rental cars. Limited availability for car seat rentals, but they do exist. Check availability with providers in advance. Make sure your car seat can be secured with seat belts. Ferry Travel : Bring snacks, layers, and motion sickness supplies—waters can be choppy. Inter-Island Travel Options Mode Routes Covered Notes SATA Air Açores All islands (daily or near-daily flights) Fastest and most reliable option. Discounted inter-island fares for residents in case you wanna, you know, move there. Atlanticoline Ferries Major islands (especially Faial, Pico, São Jorge) Seasonal frequency. Slower but scenic and affordable. Limited winter service. Private Boat Charters Faial–Pico–São Jorge, or custom routes Flexible and scenic, but expensive. Great for groups. Typical One-Way Prices (2025) Route By Air (EUR/USD) By Ferry (EUR/USD) Time (Approx.) São Miguel → Terceira €60–€90 / $65–$97 N/A ~45 minutes (flight) Faial → Pico €45 / $49 €5–€6 / $5.40–$6.50 ~10–20 min (ferry) São Jorge → Faial or Pico €50–€80 / $54–$86 €10–€12 / $11–$13 ~1–1.5 hours (ferry) Terceira → Graciosa €50–€70 / $54–$76 Limited ferry ~35 minutes (flight) Getting Around on São Miguel (Most Popular Island) Check out our lovely 4-day itinerary . We cannot wait to return. Mode Coverage Notes Taxis Island-wide Can be expensive for long distances. Confirm fare in advance. Ride-hailing Rare or unavailable Not reliable outside Ponta Delgada. Rental Cars Highly recommended Best way to explore the island on your schedule. Buses (EVA/Atlântico) Major towns and routes Limited weekend service. Timetables vary. Use official site: https://www.redeatlantico.pt Getting Around on Pico, Faial, and Terceira Car Rental : Ideal for Pico, São Miguel, São Jorge and Faial—roads are simple and scenic. Sometimes a bit narrow off the main island through-routes, but mostly great. Buses : Limited and mostly school/day routes. Terceira has slightly better service. Taxis : Available but should be arranged in advance. Ferries : Use between the central triangle islands (Pico, Faial, São Jorge). Useful Maps & Apps Google Maps : Android  | Apple Rome2Rio : Great for seeing options between islands: https://www.rome2rio.com Atlanticoline Ferry Info : https://www.atlanticoline.pt SATA Flights : https://www.azoresairlines.pt WS&T Family Tip:  If you're island-hopping with kids, stick to the central triangle (Faial, Pico, São Jorge) for easier logistics and shorter travel distances. São Miguel, one of our favorites, is a trip unto itself. But that doesn't mean you can't touch them all. Renting a car can be a bit pricey, but is considerably easier (and probably cheaper on the whole) than coordinating bus and taxi routes—especially with little ones in tow. This guide should help you embrace the isolated beauty of the Azores without getting lost between ports or bus stops. Watch for (and wave at) the handsomest cows I've ever seen. While subject to change due to construction, schedule and route issues, we do our best to keep the Azores transit guide (with kids) up to date. Let us know if you see something that needs revision, or notice any glaring issues with our memory of the system. Our Favorite Gear for the Azores?  Check out curated picks to make life easier when traveling with children. Visit PACKING  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials Balkans Transit Guide: From Adriatic Views to Mountain Crossings Plitvice National Park, Croatia Exploring the Balkans by public transport is a serious trek, but one that you will not soon forget. The region's geography and "diverse" infrastructure mean you’ll find everything from sleek ferries to dusty bus rides—all part of the adventure. Special Considerations for Parents Strollers : Many buses have undercarriage storage, but city streets can be rugged. Baby Wearing : Helpful in historic towns with narrow alleys and cobbled paths. Car Seats : Bring your own for rental cars; rarely provided or required by law. Long Rides : Bring snacks, water, and entertainment—facilities are limited on older buses. Key Countries Covered Croatia Montenegro Albania Bosnia & Herzegovina North Macedonia Serbia Intercity Transit Options Mode Countries/Common Routes Notes Buses All countries Most common and reliable option. Book through local stations or FlixBus. Trains Serbia, North Macedonia, Bosnia, parts of Croatia Sparse routes; scenic but slower and sometimes poorly maintained. Ferries Croatia, Montenegro Great along the Adriatic coast. Jadrolinija is Croatia’s main operator. Car Rental All countries Offers flexibility but be aware of border rules and vignette systems. Adriatic Coast Travel (Croatia & Montenegro) Ferries : Coastal towns and islands are linked by ferry (Split, Dubrovnik, Hvar, Kotor). In summer, lines are frequent and scenic. Buses : Inexpensive and plentiful. Try Dubrovnik–Kotor (~€20 / ~$22). Book early in summer. No rail service  exists between Dubrovnik and Montenegro. Sample Transit Prices (2025) Route Mode EUR Price USD Price (approx.) Time Split → Dubrovnik Bus €18–€25 $19–$27 ~4.5 hr Dubrovnik → Kotor Bus €20 ~$22 ~2 hr Tirana → Skopje Bus €25–€30 ~$27–$32 ~8 hr Belgrade → Sarajevo Bus/Train €25–€35 ~$27–$38 ~6–8 hr Zagreb → Split Train €20–€30 ~$22–$32 ~6 hr Ticketing & Tips Bus tickets are often bought at stations. Online booking is available via: GetByBus FlixBus Trains require in-person purchase in many countries. Ferries: https://www.jadrolinija.hr  for Croatian routes. Useful Apps & Maps Rome2Rio : Route comparisons and mixed transit options Moovit : Urban transit where available Google Maps : Excellent for intercity planning and walking routes FlixBus : Android  | Apple Travel Like a Local Locals rely on buses, so tickets can sell out—reserve ahead in high season. Border crossings may involve delays; always carry passports and confirm visa rules. Ferry routes may change with weather—double-check before departing for ports. Bus stations range from huge and official to a random parking lot in the middle of nowhere. You just sort of have to feel it out and/or get a sense of the route via internet forums. Don't be afraid to ask people. If you speak the name of your destination and look perplexed, they'll usually point you in the right direction. WS&T Family Tip:  We recommend combining coastal bus travel with a ferry or two for a kid-friendly mix of transport. The ferry from Split to Hvar or Dubrovnik to Kotor offers both ocean breezes and fewer motion complaints than winding mountain roads. Be sure to schedule around the infamous "bora", a wind off the Adriatic that abruptly cancels ferries. While subject to change due to construction, schedule and route issues, we do our best to keep the Balkan transit guide (with kids) up to date. Let us know if you see something that needs revision, or notice any glaring issues with our memory of the regional system. Our Favorite Gear for the Balkans?  Check out curated picks to make life easier when traveling with children. Visit PACKING  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials Buenos Aires Transit Guide: Getting Around Argentina’s Capital During World Cup madness Buenos Aires is a sprawling city. Get to know the Subte (Metro). It's pretty efficient! We've even included a bit of info about the short ferry ride to Colonia, Paraguay, you know, so you can count it on your country tally. Special Considerations for Parents Strollers : Subte has elevators in major stations but many are nonfunctional; buses can be tight. Baby Wearing : Easier on Subte and in crowded streets/markets. Car Seats : Rare in taxis; bring your own if needed. Be sure to bring a car seat that can be secured with seat belts. Safety : Avoid flashing valuables when boarding crowded transport. Public Transit Overview Mode What It Covers Notes Subte (Metro) 6 lines (A–E and H) covering central and outlying areas Fast and affordable, especially useful for commuting hours. Colectivos (Buses) Over 180 lines across the city Extensive coverage; color-coded buses run 24/7 on main routes. Trains Suburban connections and farther city outskirts Useful for day trips or budget regional travel. Taxis Citywide; can be hailed on street or called Must be clearly marked. Fares are metered and inexpensive. Ride-Hailing Uber, Cabify, DiDi Uber is cheaper but technically not legal (still widely used). Biking EcoBici public bike program Free for short rides. Dedicated bike lanes in key areas. Ticketing & Fares (2025) Ticket Type ARS Price (approx.) USD Price (approx.) Notes Subte Single Ride ARS 125 ~$0.80 Requires SUBE card Bus Ride (Colectivo) ARS 75–125 ~$0.50–$0.80 Fare depends on distance Train Ride ARS 100–160 ~$0.65–$1.00 For travel to outer districts SUBE Card ARS 730 ~$4.80 Required for all public transit (one card per group is fine) How to Get a SUBE Card Purchase at kioskos (convenience shops), Subte stations, or train terminals. Can be recharged at stations or with the "Carga SUBE" app. Ticket Activation & Use Tap your SUBE card at turnstiles in Subte or upon boarding buses. One card can be used for multiple passengers—just tap once per person. Getting from Ezeiza Airport (EZE) to the City It's not cheap thanks to the pretty big distance between airport and city center, but taxi and ride-hailing are the way to go, esp when traveling with kids. If you're traveling a bit lighter and want to save some cash, Tienda León is very easy to grab. Method Price (ARS/USD) Time Notes Taxi (official) ARS 10,000–13,000 / ~$65–$85 45–60 min Use airport taxi stand or book via Taxi Ezeiza. Ride-Hailing ARS 6,000–9,000 / ~$40–$60 45–60 min Uber operates despite legal grey zone. Shuttle (Tienda León) ARS 3,000 / ~$20 ~1 hour Shared van to main terminals (Retiro, Puerto Madero). Public Bus Not recommended 1.5–2 hours Complicated with luggage; not direct. Useful Apps & Maps BA Cómo Llego  (official city app): Android  | Apple Moovit : Android  | Apple Google Maps : Excellent for Subte and Colectivo directions Travel Like a Local Rush hours (8–10 AM and 5–7 PM) are very crowded—travel off-peak when possible. Keep coins or small bills handy when topping up SUBE at kiosks. EcoBici is free, but you need to register online or via app: https://ecobici.buenosaires.gob.ar Ferry to Colonia del Sacramento (Uruguay) Almost forgot. Just across the Río de la Plata, Colonia makes for a perfect day trip. This charming UNESCO-listed town offers cobbled streets, colonial buildings, and a relaxed pace—ideal for families or anyone needing a breather from the bustle of Buenos Aires. Ferry Operator Duration Price (USD approx.) Notes Buquebus ~1 hr ~$65–$90 roundtrip Most luxurious option with onboard services Colonia Express ~1 hr 15m ~$50–$70 roundtrip Cheaper, slightly less frequent Seacat ~1 hr ~$55–$75 roundtrip Often codeshares with Buquebus Passport required  for international travel. Ferries leave from Puerto Madero terminal—easily reached by taxi or Subte (Line B). Tickets can be booked online. Book early for weekends or holidays. WS&T Family Tip:  Consider Tienda León shuttles or arranging a private transfer from the airport if traveling with young children and lots of gear. Once in the city, the Subte is a fast friend—as long as you avoid rush hour(s). While subject to change due to construction, schedule and route issues, we do our best to keep the Buenos Aires transit guide (with kids) up to date. Let us know if you see something that needs revision, or notice any glaring issues with our memory of the system. Our Favorite Gear for Argentina?  Check out curated picks to make life easier when traveling with children. Visit PACKING  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials Guatemala Transit Guide: Getting Around, from City to Highlands Chicken Bus Bling! Navigating Guatemala's transit network can be a wild ride, but it's surprisingly accessible—even with kids in tow. This public transit guide covers Antigua and Lake Atitlan as well. Special Considerations for Parents Strollers : Not feasible on chicken buses or in crowded shuttles. Antigua’s cobblestones are stroller-unfriendly—opt for baby-wearing. Baby Wearing : Wear very supportive shoes or hiking boots. Flip-flops could spell disaster unless you're as sure-footed as a mountain goat. Many sidewalks are narrow or uneven. Car Seats : Rarely used or available in taxis and shuttles. If bringing your own, make sure it has a seat belt attachment. Rest Stops : Long-distance shuttles often include bathroom/snack breaks—but always bring supplies for on-the-road feeding and changing emergencies. Guatemalan Public Transit Overview Mode What It Covers Key Notes Chicken Buses (WS&T Fave) All over Guatemala, including major highways Colorful, cheap, but chaotic. Former US school buses repurposed for local use. Not ideal with kids or large luggage. Shuttles (Tourist Vans) Between major tourist hubs (e.g., Guatemala City, Antigua, Lake Atitlán) Safer and more comfortable than chicken buses. Can be booked ahead. Public Buses (Rutas Cortas) Within and between local towns Inexpensive but inconsistent schedules. Rarely marked. Spanish helpful. Uber / InDriver Major cities, including Guatemala City Affordable. InDriver allows fare negotiation. Not always available outside cities. Taxis Cities and airports Can be expensive for tourists. Always negotiate price or insist on meter. Tuk-tuks Short distances in smaller towns Quick and cheap. Great for short hops in places like Antigua or Panajachel. Ticket Types & Prices Ticket Type Cost Range Notes Chicken Bus Fare Q5–Q30 (~$0.65–$4) Pay in cash onboard. Hold onto small bills. Shuttle (Guatemala City to Antigua) Q90–Q150 (~$12–$20) Most include hotel pickup. Best to reserve in advance. Uber/InDriver (within Guatemala City) Q20–Q60 (~$2.50–$8) Prices vary by distance and time of day. Tuk-tuk Rides Q5–Q20 (~$0.65–$2.50) No meter. Always ask price before boarding. How to Buy Tickets Chicken Buses : Pay the fare collector (cobrador) in cash onboard. Shuttles : Book in advance through: Travel agencies (in Antigua, Lake Atitlán, etc.) Hotel reception desks Online sites like GuateGo: https://www.guatemalatransport.com Uber : Android | Apple InDriver : Android | Apple Ticket Activation & Usage No activation necessary for any transit type. For shuttles, show your confirmation email or receipt to the driver. Always confirm destination and cost before boarding a tuk-tuk or chicken bus. Useful Maps & Apps Google Maps : Android  | Apple Maps.me : Great for offline routing (especially outside city areas). Android | Apple Rome2Rio : Good for long-distance planning. https://www.rome2rio.com Travel Like a Local Most locals travel early in the day to avoid afternoon rains and traffic. Don’t expect timetables—"approximate" is the norm. Guatemalan Spanish is generally clear and friendly—learning key transit phrases can go a long way. Tuk Tuks are a great way to see the volcanic region and isolated towns around Lake Atitlan. WS&T Family Tip:  Booking a shared shuttle with confirmed pickup/drop-off is the easiest and most comfortable way to go from Guatemala City to Antigua with children. Avoid peak arrival times at La Aurora Airport (noon–4pm) to reduce wait time for transfers. Send pics of your favorite chicken bus! While subject to change due to construction, schedule and route issues, we do our best to keep the Guatemala (including Antigua and Lake Atitlan) transit guide (with kids) up to date. Let us know if you see something that needs revision, or notice any glaring issues with our memory of the system. Our Favorite Gear for Guatemala?  Check out curated picks to make life easier when traveling with children. Visit PACKING  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials Kraków, Poland Public Transit Guide Kraków is one of Europe’s most rewarding walking cities, but that doesn’t mean you won’t want wheels. With stroller-friendly trams, phone ticketing, and a few savvy local habits, it’s fairly easy to master—even with kids in tow. Special Considerations for Parents Stroller Access : Low-floor trams are common; rear tram door usually designated for strollers Baby Wearing : Smart for rush hour or crowded Old Town streets Car Seats : Taxis and ride-hails rarely carry them—bring your own or plan accordingly. Make sure your car seat can be secured with a seat belt Accessibility : Many stops lack elevators; tram stops are generally well-paved but older stations may require lifting What’s What in Kraków Transit Mode What It Covers Key Notes Trams City-wide + scenic routes Best for speed, comfort, and stroller access Buses Suburbs, less-central neighborhoods Great for zoo or airport connections Night Buses Entire city overnight Use for airport or late arrivals Ride-Hailing Bolt, Uber, FreeNow Cheaper than taxis, widespread, fast Taxis Official cars: white with city logo Avoid unlicensed or hailing on the street Ticket Types & Prices (2025) Ticket Type Duration PLN Approx. USD Notes Short-Term 20 min 4.00 ~$1.00 Valid on one vehicle for short rides Standard 60 min 6.00 ~$1.50 Transfers allowed within time Day Pass 24 hrs 17.00 ~$4.25 Unlimited travel; cost-effective for full days 3-Day Pass 72 hrs 50.00 ~$12.50 Ideal for Flash Trips Weekend Family Pass Sat-Sun 24.00 ~$6.00 Covers 2 adults + kids under 16 Where to Buy Tickets Ticket machines : Found at most tram/bus stops (accept cards, coins; English available) Kiosks : Look for "Ruch" or "Kasa" newsstands Mobile Apps : Jakdojade - Android Jakdojade - Apple mPay How to Activate Tickets Paper tickets : Must be validated in the yellow box inside the tram or bus (insert + stamp) App tickets : Must be activated before boarding (time-stamped in-app) Don’t skip validation : Kraków uses an honor system, but random checks are strict. Transit Maps & Helpful Links Official MPK Kraków Website ZTP Journey Planner Google Maps Transit Layer  (fully functional in Kraków) Travel Like a Local Use trams between Kazimierz and Wawel Hill—they’re scenic and quick Locals don’t tap tickets—they validate once, then relax. So should you Avoid peak school hours (7–9 AM, 2–5 PM) with a stroller Getting to and from Kraków Airport (KRK) Method Price (PLN/USD) Time Notes Train (SKA1) 17.00 PLN / ~$4.25 ~20 min Direct train to main station (Kraków Główny); stroller-friendly. Bus (#208, #252) 6.00 PLN / ~$1.50 ~30–40 min Frequent departures; good budget option. Taxi 90–120 PLN / ~$22–$30 ~25–35 min Official taxis available curbside; avoid third-party touts. Ride-Hailing 50–90 PLN / ~$12–$22 ~25–35 min Bolt and Uber operate at KRK. Use app for precise pickup points. WS&T Family Tip: Take the 18 tram loop if your kid loves movement but needs a nap. It’s quiet, lightly crowded, and cuts a scenic route between Nowa Huta and Podgórze. Lisbon Transit Guide: In a word, Beautiful. Lisbon’s public transport system is one of the most scenic in Europe, winding through steep hills, tiled neighborhoods, and down to the river. It's efficient, affordable, and readily accessible for the fam. Special Considerations for Parents Strollers : Metro and newer trams/buses are accessible. Historic trams are not stroller friendly. Baby Wearing : Helpful in older neighborhoods with cobblestones or staircases. Car Seats : Not used on transit. Bring one for ride-hailing if needed. Accessibility : Elevators available in most metro stations; funiculars help avoid steep climbs. Naturally, if traveling with lots of luggage, consider Uber or Bolt  from the airport to your hotel. Rides typically cost €10–€18 (~$10.80–$19.44) to central neighborhoods. Lisbon Metro Transit Overview Mode What It Covers Key Notes Metro (Subway) 4 lines covering central Lisbon and suburbs Clean, reliable, and fast. Great for airport and train station transfers. Carris Buses Extensive bus routes across Lisbon Reliable; useful for hills and neighborhoods not served by metro. Historic Trams Iconic tram lines including Tram 28 Popular with tourists. Gets crowded; better early or late in the day. Elevadores & Funiculars Steep hills and scenic lookouts Short rides; part of regular fare. Includes Glória, Bica, and Lavra lines. Ferries (Transtejo) Connects Lisbon to suburbs across the river Scenic and inexpensive. Operates from Cais do Sodré. Ride-Hailing Uber, Bolt, FreeNow Widely used; often cheaper than taxis. Taxis Citywide service Metered, but confirm driver uses it. Night/weekend surcharges apply. Ticket Types & Prices (as of 2025) Ticket Type EUR Price USD-ish Notes Single Ride (Metro/Bus) €1.65 ~$1.78 Valid for 60 minutes with transfers (except return trips) Viva Viagem Card €0.50 (one-time) ~$0.54 Required for loading tickets and zapping credit 24-Hour Ticket (Zapping) €6.60 ~$7.13 Unlimited metro, tram, bus, funicular travel Airport Metro Fare €1.65 ~$1.78 Standard fare with no baggage surcharge Children under 4 Free Free Accompanied by an adult How to Buy Tickets Purchase Viva Viagem  cards from metro stations, kiosks, and machines. Recharge with zapping credit or 24-hour passes. Use contactless payments (in some newer trams and buses). Ride-hailing apps: Uber : Android  | Apple Bolt : Android  | Apple FreeNow : Android  | Apple Ticket Activation & Usage Metro/Bus/Tram : Tap your Viva Viagem card on the yellow reader before boarding or entering. Funiculars and Elevators : Covered by metro/bus/tram fare; tap card before entering. Ferries : Tap at ferry terminal gates. Always keep the card handy—inspectors do random checks. Useful Maps & Apps Carris Official Site : https://www.carris.pt Lisbon Metro Map : https://www.metrolisboa.pt Google Maps : Android  | Apple Citymapper : Android  | Apple Travel Like a Local Board Tram 28  early in the morning to avoid crowds. Use zapping credit on your Viva Viagem for best fare flexibility. Take Elevador da Glória  or Bica  for scenic shortcuts up steep hills. Consider Cais do Sodré ferry  for sunset views of the Tagus River. Getting from Lisbon Airport (LIS) to Popular Neighborhoods Neighborhood Transit Options EUR Price USD Price (approx.) Estimated Time Baixa / Chiado Metro Red Line > Green Line €1.65 ~$1.78 ~30 minutes Alfama Metro Red > Green Line > Walk or Tram €1.65 ~$1.78 ~35–40 minutes Belém Metro + Tram 15 or Bus 728 from Cais Sodré €1.65–€3.00 ~$1.78–$3.24 ~45 minutes Bairro Alto Metro Red > Green Line > Walk €1.65 ~$1.78 ~30 minutes Parque das Nações Direct via Metro Red Line €1.65 ~$1.78 ~20 minutes WS&T Family Tip:  Start your Viva Viagem cards on arrival at the airport metro station—having them ready makes hopping between neighborhoods a breeze. And hey, if you've suddenly found out you're pregnant in a Lisbon Honest Greens restaurant, I highly recommend one of their tasty smoothies. They're a great distraction while you and your partner stare at each other and try to process your new reality. A Special Note for Americans: Why You Have to Validate Tickets in Europe (And Why It Feels Weird) In cities like Rome, Paris, Prague, Vienna, Lisbon, Porto, Berlin , Kraków  and many more, public transport relies on a validation system  rather than turnstiles or staffed checkpoints. Here's how it works: You buy a ticket , then you must validate it  before or upon boarding by stamping it in a small machine (usually yellow or orange). Same goes for the digital version. There's often a prompt in the official ticketing app that shows you the process. Some cities offer QR codes on the tram, bus, metro you're riding. You can scan it to validate as well. This starts the timer  on time-based passes (like Rome’s 100-minute BIT ticket). If you don’t validate it and get caught by an inspector (they board randomly), you can be fined—even if you have  a valid ticket. And believe me, the fines are typically not cheap. Why it’s strange for Americans : In the U.S., public transport typically uses gated entrances (like New York’s MTA or D.C.’s Metro) that check fares automatically. Americans aren’t used to the “honor system + random enforcement”  approach common across Europe. Lastly, when traveling Europe you start to take it for granted that everyone speaks a little English. Cue the record scratch. Ticket inspectors rarely do, so forget about trying to argue, beg for forgiveness, or plead ignorance. They've heard it so often, you may just get summarily booted from the bus. While subject to change due to construction, schedule and route issues, we do our best to keep the Lisbon metro transit guide (with kids) up to date. Let us know if you see something that needs revision, or notice any glaring issues with our memory of the system. Our Favorite Gear for Portugal?  Check out curated picks to make life easier when traveling with children. Visit PACKING  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials Mexico City Transit Guide: Exploring CDMX with Confidence I could live in this museum Mexico City is soooo big, but its public transportation system is impressively efficient and cost-effective once you know how it works. We'll also describe how to get from the airport to some of the more popular neighborhoods. Special Considerations for Parents Strollers : Not ideal during rush hours; many stations have stairs, not elevators. Lots of lugging up and down. Baby Wearing : Strongly advised in crowded metro or buses. Car Seats : Rare in taxis and Ubers; bring your own if needed. Uber doesn’t offer car seat service. Make sure your car seat can be secured using a seat belt. Parks & Pedestrian Zones : Mexico City has many stroller-friendly green spaces like Bosque de Chapultepec and Parque Mexico. You can use these to navigate huge distances, which is an absolute blast. Metro Hack: The front cars are typically reserved for women and children. Mexico City Transit Overview Mode What It Covers Key Notes Metro (Subway) 12 lines across CDMX and some suburbs Very cheap and extensive. Can get very crowded during rush hour. Metrobús Major arterial routes on dedicated bus lanes Fast, frequent, and easy to board. Often more comfortable than the metro. RTP Buses Regular city buses Slower, but good for routes not served by Metro or Metrobús. Trolebuses Electric trolley buses Eco-friendly. Operates on select major routes. Microbuses/Combis Local van-style transport Inexpensive but often chaotic and hard to navigate for non-Spanish speakers. Cablebús Gondola system in hilly northern neighborhoods Good for scenic views and connecting to underserved communities. Uber / DiDi / Beat App-based ride-hailing in urban areas Affordable by U.S. standards. Safer than hailing taxis on the street. Taxis (Sitio or Radio) Street taxis and authorized stands Use only official Sitio taxis or radio-dispatched ones. Avoid flagging random cabs. Ticket Types & Prices (as of 2025) Ticket Type Cost Notes Metro Single Ride MXN $5 (~$0.30 USD) Paper ticket or prepaid card. One transfer included. Metrobús Single Ride MXN $6 Uses same prepaid card as Metro. Multi-modal Card MXN $15 (one-time) Rechargeable; works on Metro, Metrobús, RTP, etc. Children Under 5 Free Must be accompanied by an adult. How to Buy Tickets Metro & Metrobús : Buy single-ride tickets or rechargeable "Tarjeta de Movilidad Integrada" at station kiosks or vending machines. Ride-Hailing : Uber : Android  | Apple DiDi : Android | Apple Beat : Android | Apple Ticket Activation & Usage Metro & Metrobús : Tap your mobility card at turnstiles. One fare per entry. Trolley/RTP/Microbuses : Pay cash upon boarding. Bring small bills or coins. Ride-Hailing : App-based activation. Pay via card or cash (DiDi/Beat options). Useful Maps & Apps CDMX Metro Map : https://www.metro.cdmx.gob.mx/ Mexico City Mobility App : Android | Apple Google Maps : Android  | Apple Moovit : Android | Apple Travel Like a Local Use Metro for speed, but Metrobús for comfort. Avoid transit during rush hours (7:00–9:30 a.m. and 5:00–7:30 p.m.). On the Metro, the front cars are often reserved for women and children. Always carry small change and keep your belongings close. Getting from Mexico City Airport (AICM) to Popular Neighborhoods Destination Neighborhood Transit Options Estimated Cost & Time Centro Historico Metro Line 5 to Line 1 ~MXN $5, 45 min (not ideal with luggage) Roma / Condesa Uber / DiDi ~MXN $200–250, 20–40 min depending on traffic Polanco Metro Line 5 > Line 7 ~MXN $5, 50–60 min Coyoacán Uber / DiDi ~MXN $250–300, 40–60 min Zona Rosa Metro Line 5 > Line 1 ~MXN $5, 40 min Tip : For comfort and ease, especially with kids or luggage, Uber or DiDi is the best choice out of the airport. Official airport taxis are also available at fixed rates from inside the terminal. Always pre-negotiate unless you're using an app with a declared rate. Not exactly a family-friendly photo, but he cracked me up. WS&T Family Tip:  If you’re traveling with children, consider using ride-hailing for airport transfers and relying on Metro or Metrobús once settled. Chapultepec Park is an excellent base for families—it's close to major transit lines and full of family-friendly attractions. Never fail to stop for freshly pressed tacos on blue corn tortillas and weird street art. I think it's law. While subject to change due to construction, schedule and route issues, we do our best to keep the Mexico City transit guide (with kids) up to date. Let us know if you see something that needs revision, or notice any glaring issues with our memory of the system. Our Favorite Gear for Mexico?  Check out curated picks to make life easier when traveling with children. Visit PACKING  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials New York City Metro Area Transit Guide Respect. It's not hard to remember those initial challenges of navigating NYC Metro before living and commuting there for several years, but for newcomers it can be daunting. Hopefully, with a few clear tips, you’ll soon feel like a local—especially if you're visiting with small children. Special Considerations for Parents Strollers: Allowed on buses and subway but may need folding during peak hours. Baby Wearing: Recommended for ease of movement and navigating stairs (elevators/escalators limited in stations). Car Seats: Generally unnecessary for subway, buses, and ferries; required for taxis and ride-hailing. Make sure your car seat can be secured with a seat belt when traveling without a base (car frame) attachment. Accessibility: Not all subway stations have elevators. Plan to use the MTA accessibility map or get ready to lug up and down lots of stairs: new.mta.info/accessibility New York Public Transit Overview Mode What It Covers Key Notes Subway (MTA) Extensive underground network covering NYC boroughs Runs 24/7, but frequency varies greatly by time Buses (MTA) City-wide coverage including less accessible areas Good for shorter trips and neighborhoods underserved by subway Metro-North & LIRR Connects NYC to suburban areas (Westchester, Long Island, Connecticut) Ideal for day trips out of the city PATH Train Links Manhattan to New Jersey cities (Hoboken, Jersey City) Separate fare from MTA Ferries Connects Manhattan to Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, and New Jersey Scenic, reliable, but separate fare required (except Staten Island Ferry—free) Ride-Hailing Uber, Lyft, and local taxi services Convenient but pricier option, particularly in peak hours Ticket Types & Prices (as of 2025) Ticket Type Cost Notes Single Ride $2.90 Pay-per-ride with MetroCard or OMNY OMNY Tap (Contactless) $2.90 Tap your card or smartphone; automatically caps fare after 12 rides/week 7-Day Unlimited Pass $34 Unlimited subway and bus rides; great for stays over 3 days Metro-North/LIRR Varies by destination Purchase online, via app, or station kiosks Children Under 44” Free (accompanied by fare-paying adult) No ticket required How to Buy Tickets MetroCard Vending Machines: Available in every subway station, accepts cards and cash. OMNY System: Tap your smartphone or contactless card at subway turnstiles and bus entries. Apps: OMNY App: Android | Apple MTA eTix App (Metro-North and LIRR tickets): Android | Apple Ticket Activation & Usage (Important) Subway & Bus: MetroCard: Swipe at subway turnstile or insert in bus reader upon entry. OMNY: Tap card or phone at reader; fare deducted automatically. Metro-North/LIRR: Tickets must be activated via the MTA eTix App before boarding. Conductors check tickets onboard. Useful Maps & Apps MTA Official Subway & Bus Maps: new.mta.info/maps Google Maps: Android | Apple Citymapper: Android | Apple Transit App: Android | Apple Travel Like a Local Consider using buses in areas underserved by the subway. Use apps like Citymapper or Transit for real-time updates and quicker routes. Staten Island Ferry is free and offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and skyline. My favorite place in the city... WS&T Family Tip: For families, apps like Citymapper and Transit offer features specifically highlighting stroller-friendly routes and accessible stations. While subject to change due to construction, schedule and route issues, we do our best to keep the New York metro (and regional) transit guide (with kids) up to date. Let us know if you see something that needs revision, or notice any glaring issues with our memory of the system. Our Favorite Gear for New York?  Check out curated picks to make life easier when traveling with children. Visit PACKING  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials   Porto Transit Guide: Navigating Portugal’s Northern Must-See Porto is compact, busy, very hilly, and so seductive—perfect for walky types who don’t mind a few steep climbs. The city features reliable public transit and simple intercity options from Lisbon. We've got the maps and apps, rates and routes to make navigation easier for first-time visitors. WS&T Travel Tip:  Trains leave frequently from Lisbon's Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations and arrive in Porto at Campanhã Station (3ish hours). Use local transit to transfer to São Bento in the city center. Special Considerations for Parents Strollers : Most metro stations have elevators, though some hilltop areas require stair navigation. It's kind of intense with a stroller, to be honest. Baby Wearing : Great for walking around historic, cobbled areas like Ribeira. Use those handrails on wild and wooly stairs. Car Seats : Not required in public transit. For taxis/Ubers, bring your own if needed. Make sure your car seat can be secured by seat belt. Accessibility : Metro is fully accessible; buses vary. Porto Transit Overview Mode What It Covers Key Notes Metro do Porto 6 lines (A–F) connecting the city and suburbs Light rail-style metro; clean, safe, and reliable. STCP Buses Local and regional bus service Extensive coverage, especially in areas without metro stops. Trams Historic tram lines in tourist areas Fun and scenic, but not practical for daily transport. Funicular dos Guindais Connects Ribeira (riverfront) to Batalha (uptown) Short but steep ride. Great views. Taxis / Ride-hailing Uber, Bolt, FreeNow Widely available, often cheaper than taxis. Regional Trains (CP) Connects Porto to nearby towns (e.g., Braga) Inexpensive and scenic for day trips. Ticket Types & Prices (as of 2025) Ticket Type EUR Price USD Price Notes Single Metro Ride €1.60–€2.15 $1.73–$2.32 Based on travel zone (Z2–Z4) with Andante card Andante 24 (24-hr pass) €4.15–€7.00 $4.49–$7.56 Unlimited rides in designated zones Onboard Bus Ticket ~€2.50 ~$2.70 More expensive than pre-purchased tickets Taxi (within city) €5–€15 ~$5.40–$16.20 Depends on time, distance, and luggage Children under 4 Free Free Must be with a paying adult How to Buy Tickets Metro & Bus : Buy an Andante card at metro stations, ticket machines, or convenience shops. Rechargeable. Trams : Tickets sold onboard; more expensive than Andante. Funicular : Purchase at station or via contactless card. Ride-hailing : Uber : Android  | Apple Bolt : Android | Apple FreeNow : Android | Apple Ticket Activation & Usage Andante Card : Must be validated by tapping on a yellow reader before each journey. Metro : Validate before entering platforms. Bus : Validate upon boarding. Funicular and Trams : Usually handled via separate ticketing. Useful Maps & Apps Metro do Porto Map : https://www.metrodoporto.pt Andante Ticket Info : https://www.linhandante.com Google Maps : Android  | Apple Moovit : Android | Apple Travel Like a Local The Andante Tour card  offers 1–3 days of unlimited travel for tourists. For scenic views, take Tram 1  along the river. The Funicular  is a fun  (I'm so sorry) shortcut to avoid a tough climb from the river to the upper town. Avoid driving in central Porto—streets are narrow and parking is difficult. Getting to Porto from Lisbon Mode Duration EUR Price USD Price (approx.) Notes Alfa Pendular Train ~2 hr 50 min €30–€45 $32.40–$48.60 High-speed, comfortable, with Wi-Fi and food options. Intercidades Train ~3 hr 15 min €25–€35 $27.00–$37.80 Slightly slower but still reliable. FlixBus / Rede Expressos ~3.5–4.5 hr €5–€20 $5.40–$21.60 Budget-friendly, good for spontaneous plans. Flight ~1 hour (+ airport time) €40–€90 $43.20–$97.20 Not usually worth it given train convenience and time savings. WS&T Family Tip:  Porto is a lovely city for families, especially if you stay reasonably near a metro line. Combine the funicular, tram, and riverside strolls. Pre-loading your Andante cards at the start of your trip can help reduce delays when juggling gear or tiny trekkists. While subject to change due to construction, schedule and route issues, we do our best to keep the Porto transit guide (with kids) up to date. Let us know if you see something that needs revision, or notice any glaring issues with our memory of the system. For most Americans, the hang-up in using foreign transit systems starts with the language barrier and continues with ticket validation. Nobody likes looking like a fool or jamming up the morning rush hour while local commuters glare. The urge in some cities is to resist. "I'll just walk." But those mass transit systems are a life-saver. The sooner you learn how the system works, the more confident you'll feel going a bit farther than two legs can readily carry you. True, it's fun to see how high you can run up that step counter, but those aching calves and hips may need a reprieve. Don't worry, you're not sacrificing the view AND you're not cheating your cardiovascular health. In the words of the Taco Bell girl and my personal guiding star when asked to choose between a this-or-that: "¿Porque no los dos?" Our Favorite Gear for Porto?  Check out curated picks to make life easier when traveling with children. Visit PACKING  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials Prague Public Transit Overview Old Tram. New Tram. Good tram. For most Americans, the hang-up in using foreign transit systems starts with the language barrier and continues with ticket validation. Nobody likes looking like a fool or jamming up the morning rush hour while local commuters glare. The urge in some cities is to resist. "I'll just walk." But those mass transit systems are a life-saver. The sooner you learn how the system works, the more confident you'll feel going a bit farther than two legs can readily carry you. True, it's fun to see how high you can run up that step counter, but those aching calves and hips may need a reprieve. Don't worry, you're not sacrificing the view AND you're not cheating your cardiovascular health. In the words of the Taco Bell girl and my personal guiding star when asked to choose between a this-or-that: "¿Porque no los dos?" Service Hours & Frequency Metro : 5:00 AM–midnight (every 2–10 minutes) Trams : 24/7 (night trams run less frequently) Buses : 5:00 AM–midnight, with night routes available Mode What It Covers Key Notes Metro (Subway) 3 lines (A–green, B–yellow, C–red) connecting most of the city Clean, fast, runs ~5:00 AM to midnight Trams City-wide network, great for sightseeing and locals alike Tram 22 is especially scenic Buses Outer neighborhoods, airport, night routes Less common for tourists, but reliable Funicular Connects Újezd to Petřín Hill Ticketed like any other transit Airport Express (AE) Direct bus to/from main train station (Hlavní nádraží) Not covered by regular ticket; special fare required Ticket Types & Prices (as of 2025) Ticket Type Duration Adult Price Notes Short Ride 30 minutes 30 CZK (~$1.30) Great for quick metro or tram hops Standard Ride 90 minutes 40 CZK (~$1.75) Covers most journeys across the city 1-Day Pass 24 hours 120 CZK (~$5.25) Unlimited rides for a full day 3-Day Pass 72 hours 330 CZK (~$14.50) Best for Flash Trip travelers Children (6–15) Half price Under 6 ride free How to Buy Tickets Ticket Machines : Found in metro stations and major tram stops. You can identify them on your preferred map/gps app. Accept coins and cards. Tabák Shops : Convenience kiosks that sell tickets. Mobile App : Download PID Lítačka  – easiest for buying and managing digital tickets. Onboard : Some newer trams/buses have contactless card readers for quick ticket purchase. You can easily spot the new ones. They're not nearly as nostalgic, but they faannncy. How to Activate a Ticket (This Part Matters!) Paper Ticket? You MUST validate it before riding: Look for a yellow stamping machine  at: Metro entrances (before descending) Inside trams and buses (near doors) Insert your ticket  into the machine until you hear a stamp.This prints a timestamp on your ticket and starts the timer. If you skip this step and get checked by a transit inspector, you can be fined—even if you have a valid but unstamped ticket. Mobile Ticket? Activation is built-in: In the PID Lítačka app, purchase AND activate  your ticket before boarding . Show the live ticket screen if requested. Which is to say, keep your mobile app handy. Inspectors move quickly and often don't speak English. Other Useful Things Like Route Maps & Such!   Where to Find a Prague Transit Map Official Prague Integrated Transport (PID) Website   https://pid.cz/en/ Includes metro, tram, and bus maps , printable PDFs, and timetables. Look for the "Maps" section under "Transport Around Prague." Interactive Map of Prague Transit https://map.pid.cz/ Live, zoomable map showing metro, tram, and bus lines with stop info. Also shows real-time departures for trams and buses. Metro Map Only (Simple Visual) https://www.metro.mapapraha.com/ Clean, downloadable map of just the 3 metro lines. Google Maps Accurate transit overlays and directions in real time. Shows tram stops, walking routes, and even platform info for metros. A Special Note for Americans: Why You Have to Validate Tickets in Europe (And Why It Feels Weird) In cities like Rome, Paris, Prague, Vienna, Lisbon, Porto, Berlin , Kraków  and many more, public transport relies on a validation system  rather than turnstiles or staffed checkpoints. Here's how it works: You buy a ticket , then you must validate it  before or upon boarding by stamping it in a small machine (usually yellow or orange). Same goes for the digital version. There's often a prompt in the official ticketing app that shows you the process. Some cities offer QR codes on the tram, bus, metro you're riding. You can scan it to validate as well. This starts the timer  on time-based passes (like Rome’s 100-minute BIT ticket). If you don’t validate it and get caught by an inspector (they board randomly), you can be fined—even if you have  a valid ticket. And believe me, the fines are typically not cheap. Why it’s strange for Americans : In the U.S., public transport typically uses gated entrances (like New York’s MTA or D.C.’s Metro) that check fares automatically. Americans aren’t used to the “honor system + random enforcement”  approach common across Europe. Lastly, when traveling Europe you start to take it for granted that everyone speaks a little English. Cue the record scratch. Ticket inspectors rarely do, so forget about trying to argue, beg for forgiveness, or plead ignorance. They've heard it so often, you may just get summarily booted from the bus. Helpful Transit Apps for Prague App Name What It Does PID Lítačka Official app for buying tickets, checking routes, schedules, and delays. Mapy.cz Czech-made app with walking, hiking, bike, and transit layers. Great offline use. Google Maps Reliable for route planning and public transit directions. IDOS (Jízdní řády) All-in-one Czech transit planner—covers trains, buses, trams, and long-distance routes. Moovit Global app with real-time transit info, stop notifications, and step-by-step routes. Our Favorite Gear for Prague?  Check out curated picks to make life easier when traveling with children. Visit PACKING  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials Rome Transit Guide: Navigating the Eternal City Bring a bambino! Rome's transit system gets a lot of grief for long lines, overcrowding and schedule issues. Visitors may not bear the brunt of its woes, but bring a healthy dose of patience. This thing is built around a mere two millenia of city infrastructure, so what can one really expect? Special Considerations for Parents Strollers : Many metro stations lack elevators; buses are stroller-friendly but crowded. Baby Wearing : A good option for navigating ancient streets and uneven walkways. Car Seats : Required in taxis and rental cars; not provided by default. Be sure your car seat can be secured with a seat belt. Free Transit : Kids under 10 ride free with adult. Heck yes! Public Transit Overview Mode What It Covers Notes Metro 3 lines (A, B, and C) covering major city corridors Fast and simple, but limited coverage near historic center. Buses & Trams City-wide coverage Frequent but often delayed due to traffic. Night buses available. Regional Trains Connect suburbs and airports Useful for day trips and airport transfers. Taxis Available citywide Use official taxi stands or call to avoid scams. Ride-Hailing Uber, FreeNow, Bolt UberX is limited; FreeNow and Bolt more common. Hop-On Hop-Off Buses Tourist-oriented routes Good for overview tours, but not part of public system. Ticket Types & Prices (2025) Ticket Type EUR Price USD Price (approx.) Notes BIT (100-min ticket) €1.50 ~$1.63 Valid for buses, metro, trams for 100 minutes from validation 24-Hour Ticket €7.00 ~$7.60 Unlimited rides on buses, metro, trams for 24 hours 48-Hour Ticket €12.50 ~$13.55 Unlimited rides for 48 hours 72-Hour Ticket €18.00 ~$19.50 Best value for weekend visitors Weekly Pass (CIS) €24.00 ~$26.00 Unlimited use for 7 consecutive days Children under 10 Free Free Must be with a paying adult How to Buy Tickets Tabacchi Shops : Small tobacco shops across the city sell transport tickets. Metro Stations : Ticket vending machines accept cash and cards. Apps : ATAC Roma App  (official): Android  | Apple MyCicero : Android  | Apple FreeNow  (taxis): Android  | Apple Ticket Activation & Usage Paper tickets  must be validated using yellow machines on buses/trams or before entering metro turnstiles. App tickets  must be activated before boarding and shown on request. Getting from Rome Airports to the City Airport Transit Options EUR Price USD Price (approx.) Time Fiumicino (FCO) Leonardo Express train to Termini €14 ~$15.15 ~32 minutes Bus (Terravision, SIT, etc.) €6–€7 ~$6.50–$7.60 ~45–60 minutes Taxi (fixed fare to city center) €50 ~$54.20 ~40 minutes Ciampino (CIA) Bus to Termini via Terravision/SIT €5–€6 ~$5.40–$6.50 ~40–60 minutes Taxi (fixed fare to city center) €31 ~$33.60 ~30 minutes Useful Maps & Apps Rome Metro Map : https://www.rometoolkit.com/transport/rome_metro_map.htm Google Maps : Android  | Apple Moovit : Android  | Apple Travel Like a Local Expect occasional transit strikes—check ahead before relying on public transport. For reliable taxis, call or use the FreeNow app—never hail one off the street at tourist landmarks. Pre-negotiating is all well and good... if they choose to honor the rate. Metro is clean but not comprehensive; plan on some walking or bus connections. WS&T Family Tip: Hope you're a family of early risers. That's really the best and least stressful way to get out and about. While subject to change due to construction, schedule and route issues, we do our best to keep the Rome transit guide (with kids) up to date. Let us know if you see something that needs revision, or notice any glaring issues with our memory of the system. Our Favorite Gear for Italy?  Check out curated picks to make life easier when traveling with children. Visit PACKING  For More Outstanding Travel Essentials

Guatemala Transit Guide: Getting Around, from City to Highlands Chicken Bus Bling! Navigating Guatemala's transit network can be a wild ride, but it's surprisingly accessible—even with kids in tow. This public transit guide covers Antigua and Lake Atitlan as well. Special Considerations for Parents Strollers : Not feasible on chicken buses or in crowded shuttles. Antigua’s cobblestones are stroller-unfriendly—opt for baby-wearing. Baby Wearing : Wear very supportive shoes or hiking boots. Flip-flops could spell disaster unless you're as sure-footed as a mountain goat. Many sidewalks are narrow or uneven. Car Seats : Rarely used or available in taxis and shuttles. If bringing your own, make sure it has a seat belt attachment. Rest Stops : Long-distance shuttles often include bathroom/snack breaks—but always bring supplies for on-the-road feeding and changing emergencies. Public Transit Overview Mode What It Covers Key Notes Chicken Buses (WS&T Fave) All over Guatemala, including major highways Colorful, cheap, but chaotic. Former US school buses repurposed for local use. Not ideal with kids or large luggage. Shuttles (Tourist Vans) Between major tourist hubs (e.g., Guatemala City, Antigua, Lake Atitlán) Safer and more comfortable than chicken buses. Can be booked ahead. Public Buses (Rutas Cortas) Within and between local towns Inexpensive but inconsistent schedules. Rarely marked. Spanish helpful. Uber / InDriver Major cities, including Guatemala City Affordable. InDriver allows fare negotiation. Not always available outside cities. Taxis Cities and airports Can be expensive for tourists. Always negotiate price or insist on meter. Tuk-tuks Short distances in smaller towns Quick and cheap. Great for short hops in places like Antigua or Panajachel. Ticket Types & Prices Ticket Type Cost Range Notes Chicken Bus Fare Q5–Q30 (~$0.65–$4) Pay in cash onboard. Hold onto small bills. Shuttle (Guatemala City to Antigua) Q90–Q150 (~$12–$20) Most include hotel pickup. Best to reserve in advance. Uber/InDriver (within Guatemala City) Q20–Q60 (~$2.50–$8) Prices vary by distance and time of day. Tuk-tuk Rides Q5–Q20 (~$0.65–$2.50) No meter. Always ask price before boarding. How to Buy Tickets Chicken Buses : Pay the fare collector (cobrador) in cash onboard. Shuttles : Book in advance through: Travel agencies (in Antigua, Lake Atitlán, etc.) Hotel reception desks Online sites like GuateGo: https://www.guatemalatransport.com Uber : Android | Apple InDriver : Android | Apple Ticket Activation & Usage No activation necessary for any transit type. For shuttles, show your confirmation email or receipt to the driver. Always confirm destination and cost before boarding a tuk-tuk or chicken bus. Useful Maps & Apps Google Maps : Android  | Apple Maps.me : Great for offline routing (especially outside city areas). Android | Apple Rome2Rio : Good for long-distance planning. https://www.rome2rio.com Travel Like a Local Most locals travel early in the day to avoid afternoon rains and traffic. Don’t expect timetables—"approximate" is the norm. Guatemalan Spanish is generally clear and friendly—learning key transit phrases can go a long way. Tuk Tuks are a great way to see the volcanic region and isolated towns around Lake Atitlan. WS&T Family Tip: Booking a shared shuttle with confirmed pickup/drop-off is the easiest and most comfortable way to go from Guatemala City to Antigua with children. Avoid peak arrival times at La Aurora Airport (noon–4pm) to reduce wait time for transfers. Send pics of your favorite chicken bus! While subject to change due to construction, schedule and route issues, we do our best to keep the Guatemala (including Antigua and Lake Atitlan) transit guide (with kids) up to date. Let us know if you see something that needs revision, or notice any glaring issues with our memory of the system.

New York City Metro Area Transit Guide Respect. It's hard to remember the initial challenges of navigating NYC Metro after living and commuting there for several years, but for newcomers it can feel intimidating. Hopefully, with a few clear tips, you’ll soon feel like a local—especially if you're visiting with small children. Special Considerations for Parents Strollers: Allowed on buses and subway but may need folding during peak hours. Baby Wearing: Recommended for ease of movement and navigating stairs (elevators/escalators limited in stations). Car Seats: Generally unnecessary for subway, buses, and ferries; required for taxis and ride-hailing. Make sure your car seat can be secured with a seat belt when traveling without a base (car frame) attachment. Accessibility: Not all subway stations have elevators. Plan to use the MTA accessibility map or get ready to lug up and down lots of stairs: new.mta.info/accessibility New York Public Transit Overview Mode What It Covers Key Notes Subway (MTA) Extensive underground network covering NYC boroughs Runs 24/7, but frequency varies greatly by time Buses (MTA) City-wide coverage including less accessible areas Good for shorter trips and neighborhoods underserved by subway Metro-North & LIRR Connects NYC to suburban areas (Westchester, Long Island, Connecticut) Ideal for day trips out of the city PATH Train Links Manhattan to New Jersey cities (Hoboken, Jersey City) Separate fare from MTA Ferries Connects Manhattan to Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, and New Jersey Scenic, reliable, but separate fare required (except Staten Island Ferry—free) Ride-Hailing Uber, Lyft, and local taxi services Convenient but pricier option, particularly in peak hours Ticket Types & Prices (as of 2025) Ticket Type Cost Notes Single Ride $2.90 Pay-per-ride with MetroCard or OMNY OMNY Tap (Contactless) $2.90 Tap your card or smartphone; automatically caps fare after 12 rides/week 7-Day Unlimited Pass $34 Unlimited subway and bus rides; great for stays over 3 days Metro-North/LIRR Varies by destination Purchase online, via app, or station kiosks Children Under 44” Free (accompanied by fare-paying adult) No ticket required How to Buy Tickets MetroCard Vending Machines: Available in every subway station, accepts cards and cash. OMNY System: Tap your smartphone or contactless card at subway turnstiles and bus entries. Apps: OMNY App: Android | Apple MTA eTix App (Metro-North and LIRR tickets): Android | Apple Ticket Activation & Usage (Important) Subway & Bus: MetroCard: Swipe at subway turnstile or insert in bus reader upon entry. OMNY: Tap card or phone at reader; fare deducted automatically. Metro-North/LIRR: Tickets must be activated via the MTA eTix App before boarding. Conductors check tickets onboard. Useful Maps & Apps MTA Official Subway & Bus Maps: new.mta.info/maps Google Maps: Android | Apple Citymapper: Android | Apple Transit App: Android | Apple Travel Like a Local Consider using buses in areas underserved by the subway. Use apps like Citymapper or Transit for real-time updates and quicker routes. Staten Island Ferry is free and offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and skyline. My favorite place in the city... WS&T Family Tip: For families, apps like Citymapper and Transit offer features specifically highlighting stroller-friendly routes and accessible stations. While subject to change due to construction, schedule and route issues, we do our best to keep the New York metro (and regional) transit guide (with kids) up to date. Let us know if you see something that needs revision, or notice any glaring issues with our memory of the system.