Travel Itineraries
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Current Travel Tally:
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5
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On this blog, I share a lot of destinations and ideas. The blog format can make it tricky to find them all, so this post is your shortcut to find what you are looking for. I hope this helps - and Bon Voyage!
European Destination Itineraries: London: A Long Autumn Weekend in London My Favorite Pubs in London Ancient Roman Londinium Walking Tour 4 Days in London The London List Paris: 3 Days in Paris Amsterdam: 3 Days in Amsterdam Sweden: 5 Days in Sweden: Stockholm and Gothenburg Italy: 3 Days in Venice 2 Days in Florence 4 Days in Rome Croatia: Sailing the Croatian Coast Turkey: 3 Days in Istanbul Australia Itineraries: One Week in Sydney United States Itineraries: 3 Days in New York City My Favorite Bakeries in NYC Gorgeous Buildings to Visit in NYC 5 Days in New York with 10 year old Boys 3 Days in Washington DC (+ Old Town Alexandria)  I love Paris, and have been lucky enough to have traveled there many different ways: with my husband just as a couple, with our kids when they were young, and for work. This is has given me a nuanced appreciation for the various aspects of the city. I am often asked for suggestions and recommendations, so here is a broad overview, especially if you are not very familiar with the city. Paris is dense with history, architecture, art, and culture (and food!). There is a lot to see and do. If this is your first trip there, then you want to make sure you see all of the landmarks and jewels. This list is perfect for just that. It also includes some of my favorite places to eat, so I hope that is helpful. When traveling to London or Paris, I like to fly out on Wednesday evening and arrive on Thursday morning. This helps to maximize your time since many shops are closed on Sundays. Time of year is also a factor. The summer is crazy in Paris so I aim for the school breaks: March – May, or September-October. In my opinion, September is the best time to go. Most international flights will arrive in Charles de Gaulle Airport, and from there you can take the RER B train to Gare du Nord. I prefer to stay in le Marais. You’ll be within walking distance to the major museums and destinations. If you have been there before, then I also suggest staying nearby in the 11th arrondiessement in Canal St-Martin. This neighborhood has a more local feel, and iconic restaurants like Chez Prune and Les Enfants Perdu. Regardless of where you stay, I strongly suggest that you decide on your dinner locations well in advance of your trip, and to make reservations. And I have noted below where I suggest getting timed tickets for the various sights as well. Day 1 / Thursday (morning arrival): Summary: Get acquainted with the city and see the landmarks: Latin Quarter, Île de la Cité, Notre Dame, and Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triumph Morning and Lunch: Drop your bags off at the hotel and go out and explore the Marais. This is one of Paris’ oldest neighborhoods. Wander around and enjoy the cafes, shops, and galleries. Maybe head to the Picasso Museum in the Hotel Sale. Or visit the Maisons Victor Hugo to learn all about the famous poet before heading to Christophe Louie for a well-earned coffee and pastry. Once you have some energy and caffeine, then head across the River Seine to the Latin Quarter. If you are a reader, and even if you’re not, head to the Shakespeare & Company bookstore which you may recognize from many movies. This is a famous English-language bookstore that has appeared in many novels and movies over the years. Explore all the nooks and crannies while keeping an eye out for the resident cats. By now it is probably close to lunchtime and there are a number of great places to eat near the bookstore. In addition to the Shakespeare & Company Café on site, there is also the nearby Bistro des Livres, Hestia Restaurant, the Italian Pepita Paris, or La Taverne d’Esmeralda. Afternoon: From here, continue along the river until the Ponte au Double bridge and cross over to the Île de la Cité where Notre Dame has stood for or more than 800 years. After exploring this icon, you will want to head next door to the tiny Chapel of Saine-Chapelle to see the world’s largest collection of 13th century stained glass and where the relics of the Passion of Christ are exhibited. Free, timed entry tickets are available for Notre Dame, but they are optional. You can reserve a time slot online through the official Notre-Dame de Paris website or through the official smartphone app. Visitors can also enter without a reservation by joining the "Access without reservations" queue, though this may involve a longer wait. After your visit, treat yourself to a crepe from one of the vendors rear the rear of Notre Dame, and sit int the gardens to enjoy the view when you eat. When you are done resting your feet, head back over the river to the continue along the Left Bank and head towards the Eiffel Tower. The Eiffel Tower is a 12-15 minute drive from Notre Dame, or a little over an hour walk. If you really want to get a feel for the city then I recommend walking so you can pop into shops along the way. But an uber, or even the Batobus (which is my preference) are great alternatives. The Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 for the Universal Exhibition. Although it has not always met with unanimous approval, it is today the most magnificent and iconic monument in France. At more than 300 meters high, it offers you fantastic views of the city. And FYI - there is a champagne bar at the top if you want to toast to a fabulous trip. The Eiffel Tower is open every day from 9:30am – 11:45pm. I suggest getting your tickets ahead of time for the Eiffel Tower as well. Make them for later in the afternoon so that you don’t feel rushed through the earlier part of your day. Evening: From here, you will want to stroll to the Champs de Elyses and the Arc de Triumph. It’s just a 7 minute walk. Be sure to use the tunnel to access the building since it is located in the middle of a chaotic traffic circle. If you time it right, then you can get a great sunset shot at the top. Or – you can wander and shop a bit, have some dinner, and then head up after dark to catch a great view of the Eiffel Tower all lit up at night. If you decide to eat before catching the nighttime views from the Arc de Triumph, I’d recommend the Brasserie Fouquet’s Paris, or Pub Elysee.  Day 2 / Friday: Summary: the Louvre, Jardin de Tuileries, and Montmarte Morning: The Louvre Museum was the first royal residence. It opened its doors as a public museum in 1793. The museum exhibits more than 33,000 world famous works from Antiquity to the 19th century. Some of the signature pieces include the Victory of Samothrace, the Mona Lisa, and the Venus de Milo. Always check the website for the operating hours, but it is generally open every day from 9am to 6pm but is closed on Tuesdays. I highly recommend that you start you day here, and reserve your tickets online well ahead of your visit. Lunch: After leaving the museum, head to the Luxembourg Gardens to sit for a minute and enjoy the toy boats and a coffee before heading the Jardin de Tuileries. My suggestion is to grab lunch in the garden at one of the outdoor kiosks and enjoy the people watching and the fresh air. If it is too chilly to sit outside when you are there, then I’d suggest getting lunch at Le Procope. Afternoon: After lunch, you’ll want to head to Montmartre. You can get there by taking the Metro line 12 in less than 25 minutes, getting off at Barbes - Rochechouart. Enjoy a stroll through the small, cobbled streets and you’ll get the feeling that you are actually in a little village and not a big city. Here you can visit Picasso’s old studio, Le Bateau Lavoir. And if you have time, stop by the Montmarte museum to learn about the area’s bohemian past. If you need a snack at this point, I suggest the traditional raclette cheese and ham sandwich at Grenouilles, which is just a 3 minute walk from the basilica. Their outdoor area is perfect for resting your feet after all that exploring. Then continue up the steps to Sacre-Coeur (the Basilica of the Sacred Heart) or you can take the Montmarte funicular (I love a funicular ride!) You will be rewarded at the top with the most incredible view of the city, and a breathtaking sunset. Dinner: For dinner, there is a budget friendly option there is the more traditional La Boite Aux Letters, which is fantastic. Their foie gras starter alone is worth the trip.  Day 3 / Saturday: Summary: Musee d’Orsay, Les Invalides, and the Musee de l’Orangerie Morning: There will be a lot of walking today, but it will all be worth it. Start that day at the Musee d’Orsay. This museum opened in 1986 in a redeveloped train station that now houses the largest collection of Impressionist works of art in the Western world, ranging from 1848 – 1914 and including masterpieces from Monet, Manet, Degas, Renoir, Cezanne, Seurat, Sisley, Gauguin, and van Gogh. The museum was established to bridge the gap between the Louvre’s collection and that of the National Museum of Modern Art at the Pompidou Centre. Lunch: Be sure to appreciate the building itself. It was formerly the Gare d’Orsay, and was built for the 1900 World’s Fair. The quintessential view and Instagram shots are from behind the former station’s clock, looking out onto the city of Paris. There is also a café here, and you probably need a break at this point. It is called the Café Campana and is located on the fifth floor. Afternoon: Not far from the Eiffel Tower is Les Invalides. The Hotel des Invalides was built at the request of Louis XIV to shelter soldier who fought for France. Over the centuries it’s purpose has changed, and today it houses the Army Museum, the Museum of the Order of the Liberation, and the Tomb of Napoleon I is under the dome of the Saint-Louis chapel. Les Invalides was an especially big hit with my boys when they were little. There’s lot of horses and canon, and room to run and play in the courtyard. I suggest grabbing a coffee or snack nearby before heading to the Musee de l’Orangerie. The Musee de l’Orangerie is an art gallery of Impressionist and Post Impressionist paintings located on the west corner of the Tuileries Gardens, next to the Place de la Concorde. It is most famous for being the permanent home of the eight large paintings that comprise Monet’s Water Lilies. The museum also contains works from Cezanne, Matisse, Modilgiani, Picasso, Renoir, Rousseau, Sisley and Soutine. Napolean built the Orangerie in 1852 to store the citrus trees from the Tuileries Gardens during the winter. Prior to that they had been stored in the Grande Galerie of the Louvre. After the Fall of the Empire in 1870 the Orangerie became property of the State, which continued to use it for its original purpose as well as music concerts, art expositions, contests and dog shows. Evening/Dinner: Since this is your last night in Paris, I recommend Le Dome Café for dinner. Anthony Bourdain considered it his favorite restaurant in Paris, and that says a lot. But if you’re more in the mood for a brasseries that is also a celebrity hotspot, then head to Ferdi on Rue du Mont Thabor.  Optional Day 4 /Sunday: Versailles: If you are lucky enough to add a fourth day onto your trip and don’t need to fly out today, then I’d suggest heading to the Palace of Versailles. The trip will take about 45 minutes by train. From the Left Bank you’ll take the RER C to the Versailles – Chateau-Rive Gauche station. Versailles was originally a hunting lodge (!) that was turned into a palace by Louis XIV. It served as the seat of the royal court until 1789. The last occupants were King Louis VXI and Queen Marie Antoinette until they were executed during the French Revolution. The palace has 700 rooms, so you can’t possibly see them all. But don’t miss the Grand Apartments du Roi et de la Reine (King’s and Queen’s Royal Apartments), and the Galerie des Glaces (Hall of Mirrors) ballroom which has 17 mirrors along it’s 246 ft length. You will want to leave plenty of time to explore the gardens, the statues (my favorite is the horses in the fountain). We had lunch out in the gardens at the café and it was delightful, but there are many little cafes in the town that look lovely as well.  Another option is to visit the gardens in Giverny in Normandy instead of Versailles, especially between April and October when everything is in bloom because this was Claude Monet’s home from 1883 until his death in 1926. It inspired his “Water Lilies” series which you just visited at the Musee de l’Orangerie. You’ll want to visit the Maison et Jardins de Claude Monet so you can see his house, the gardens, the Japanese bridge and the water lilies themselves. There is something very special about seeing both the inspiration and the art. There is another museum nearby called the Musee des Impressionnismes Giverny where you can see work from other influential Impressionists including Renoir, Degas, Pissarro and Cezanne. Lunch: At some point - maybe in between visiting the museums - take a break for lunch and visit La Capucine Giverny for lunch in a gorgeous garden setting. Evening: And when you get back to Paris, consider visiting Septime for dinner, or Bistrot Paul Bert to toast to the end of a fabulous visit. Both restaurants were recommended by Bourdain during The Layover. Additionally, he also recommended Brasserie La Welper on the border between the Montmarte and Pigalle neighborhoods as an alternative to Le Dome Café. Those are three great options for dinner and for toasting to a fabulous trip.  London is gorgeous in Autumn. Our boys' fall school breaks are usually the second week of October, which is a perfect time to visit. Here is a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time there if you only have 4-5 days. If you do have more time, I would recommend a day trip to Greenwich, or to Windsor if you are more of a Royalist. Day 1 (Friday): Overnight flight – arrive by 9am in London Stay near Westminster or the Strand (our favorites are St. Ermin’s and the Savoy) Queue for changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace – Changing of the Guard is generally at 10:45 (get there 30 minutes early for a good spot), but check the website for any updates. Go to a proper British Pub for lunch (suggestions include: The Feathers, Buckingham Arms, or the Ship & Shovell ) Mid Afternoon: self-guided tour at Westminster Abbey. Late afternoon: at Churchill’s Cabinet War Rooms OR Take the tube to Kensington for the V&A Museum Dinner in Covent Garden at Mr. Foggs Tavern or SushiSamba  Day 2 (Saturday): If it’s a Saturday, it’s great to start the day at the Portobello Road Market. Don’t miss the Notting Hill Jacket Company and the Notting Hill Tote Bag for souvenirs, for yourself and for others. Follow that with lunch at the Instagram famous Churchill Arms near Notting Hill. We are big football (soccer) fans, so we’ll try to grab a game it we can. You'll want to try to arrange for those tickets as soon as you plan your trip. But if footie is not your jam, then I would suggest the British Rail & Postal Museum. For dinner, I suggest either Ivy in the Park or Masala Zone. And if you are a theatre person (and I definitely am!) then purchase your show tickets around the same time you book your airline tickets, and then head to the theatre after dinner. Day 3 (Sunday): In Autumn, you want foliage. So to me that means two choices – either head to Hampstead Heath for the day, or to Richmond. For our most recent trip we chose Richmond. Once in Richmond, be sure to stop and see the following:
After spending the day in Richmond, we headed back to Paddington to pick up our reserved boat at GOBoats London and captained our own boat through the canals all the way to the London Zoo and back. No boating license is required, and each boat can hold up to 8 people. We loved the unique perspective on the city, seeing all the quintessential long boats, and the autumn water views. It was fantastic, and I highly recommend it. For dinner, I recommend grabbing a bite in Chinatown. Day 4 (Monday) : This is a great day to visit the Tower of London (be there at 8:30 when it opens to avoid the crowds). I always do this as the first activity of the day and book an early access tour with the Beefeaters to watch one of the oldest ceremonies in the world – the Ceremony of the Keys. Afterwards, head to lunch at Fortnum’s Bar and Restaurant at the Royal Exchange For the afternoon. You can visit the Walkie Talkie Building and Sky Garden then head to St. Dustan in the East. THEN… You can head for afternoon tea OR….. You can do my Ancient Roman History Walking Tour through the oldest part of the city. I have linked to it here. It includes the London Stone, the London Mithraeum Museum, and the Roman Fort of Londinium at the Barbican. The best part? It’s all free. For dinner I suggest keeping with the theme and eating at London’s Oldest Pub: Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Day 5 (Tuesday): Travel Day:
If you are traveling back to the East Coast, chances are that you’ll at least have the morning before you have to leave for the airport. I recommend enjoying a morning stroll to Leaden Hall Market which served as the exterior shot and inspiration for Harry Potter’s Daigon Alley and the Leaky Cauldron in Sorcerer's Stone. It is located in the original Roman part of the city at Gracechurch Street and Lime Street. You’ll get great pics without a lot of people in the way at this hour. I am often asked about what pub to go to in London for a traditional experience. The answer really depends on what part of the city you'll be on any given day. So this is my official list of my Favorite Pubs in London. I have grouped them my neighborhood or area - I hope that helps. Westminster: Most people start their trip to London with the big three: Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbeym and the Churchill War Rooms. Three great, traditional pubs in this area are: 1. The Feathers pub is considered a Flemish Pub (a people's cafe) and has over 150 years of history. When you enter, be sure to check out the sign over our pub's Victorian façade. It commemorates the feathers of the Prince of Wales, which is the heraldic badge of the heir to the throne. When the pub was built, the then Prince was to become the future Edward VII. 2. The Buckingham Arms With 240 years of culture, the pub retains many original features, including etched glass mirrors and stained glass. It was rebuilt in 1898 and renamed the Buckingham in 1901. 3. The Ship & Shovell The two terraced houses that make up the Ship and Shovell were built in in the 1730s when the most southerly one had a clear view of the river via a porthole-like window. This enabled the dockers and carters who frequented the inn to keep an eye on the Thames and watch for ships that might need divesting of their coal and other goods. The buildings were later replaced and the pub was listed as the Ship and Shovel in 1852. It seems the perfect name for a pub whose clientele used to shovel coal from a ship. But in 1997 its name was changed to the Ship and Shovell (with two Ls) after a 17th century sea admiral. Belgravia / Hyde Park: 4. The Grenadier in Belgravia is hard to find but has a cool story. It is located halfway down a beautiful cobbled mews lane off a grand Belgravia square near Hyde Park and Green Park. It’s name comes from the fact that it was built to house an army regiment. It has lots of history and stories (it may be haunted!), and it very cosy. Notting Hill / Kensignton: 5. The Churchill Arms in Kensington is Instagram famous and it deserves that title. It is most famous for its extravagant Christmas lights, and for the flower displays in the spring. The story is that it was a favorite of Winston Churchill’s grandparents. East London: 6. If you are on the east side of the city and love some good history and pirate lore, then I recommend the Prospect of Whitby. The Prospect of Whitby dates back to 1520. It has had many names over the years including the Devil’s tavern because of the pirates and criminal would meet here in the shadows to make their plans. Bankside: 7. If you have spent the day on the South side of the river at Borough Market and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, then you should make time for Anchor Bankside. It was rebuilt after the Great Fire of London in 1676, This pub is the sole survivor of the riverside inns that existed here in Shakespeare's time when this district was at the heart of the theatre district. It was frequented by many actors from the local playhouses, including the Globe, the Swan, and the Rose. It was frequented by Shakespeare, Dr Samuel Johnson, and diarist Samuel Pepys. who wrote about the Great Fire from this location. If that's not enough, it was also a favorite place for river pirates and smugglers. Over the centuries it has been used as a tavern, a brothel, a chapel, and a brewery. Richmond: 7. If you travel west to visit Richmond, then you have to visit the White Cross Pub (and you definitely need to make a reservation ahead of time!). I talk about this one on the blog, but this one dates from the 18th century and is right on the edge of the Thames. The Thames varies from 17-22ft (!) with the tides, and at high tide it will flood the entrance to the pub. They even have wellies for you to use to be able to escape. Greenwich: 8. And if you decide to travel to Greenwich for the Naval College, Prime Meridian and the Cutty Sark, then you definitely need to visit the Trafalgar Tavern in Greenwich. The Trafalgar Tavern was built on the site of the long-established Old George Tavern, whose landlord Charles Hart continued at the helm of the Trafalgar until his death in 1863. In 1865, the London, Windsor and Greenwich Hotels Company was formed to unite the ownership of the Trafalgar, Ship, and Yacht taverns and in 1896 George Damiral, former mariner and local confectioner took it on as the Trafalgar Hotel, running a sweet manufactory in the basement. The Trafalgar closed in 1915 and variously became an institute for aged merchant seamen, a working men’s club, and later an unemployment center. It was saved from demolition in 1937 by being converted into apartments for the navy and did not reopen as a pub until 1965, when its old interior was gutted and lavishly remodeled by craftsmen from Pinewood (movie) Studios giving every appearance of a 1960s film set.  It is amazing to think about the vast history in the very center of the financial district in London. The Romans called it Londinium, and there is still a lot of their history around for you to see. And it is all FREE!. So if you want to take a different look at the city on your next visit, I highly recommend this list I've put together. It's part scavenger hunt, part education, and you can stop into a Pret and get a tea or coffee anywhere along the way that you'd like. Enjoy! 1. Roman Wall and Statue of Emperor Trajan (wall dates AD190-225) Located just outside the Tower Undeground station - you can't miss it. 17 minute walk to: 2. The London Stone 111 Canon Street (dates back to AD1100) The London Stone was considered so important that laws were drawn up on top of it, and oaths were made over it. The myth is that if it were removed from the city, the city would collapse. 5 minute walk to: 3. London Mithraeum: the Temple of Mithrae (free) Located in the basement of the Bloomberg European HQ. This museum has fantastic reviews, and it is FREE! 8 minute walk to: 4. Guildhall Art Gallery (free) Built on top of a Roman Amphitheater you can see in the basement and there is a museum. 18 minute walk to: 5. St. Bride's Church (free) There's roman walls and pavement here that dates to 180AD, and there is a thorough museum in the crypt. Plus, the design of this church is what inspired the design of the modern wedding cake. Optional: 20 minute walk from St. Bride's is 6. Next to Monument Station - wooden part of the original Roman bridge from 2K years ago where London Bridge now stands (note: This is back towards the east, closer to Dunstan in the East) and a 25 minute walk in that same direction is 7. Leadenhall Market In the basement of the Nicholason & Griffin hair salon is part of the Roman basilica it is built on top of, but you can only see it if the salon is open.   I have loved DC since my first visit there on a school trip. I have lived there for two summers, visited a bunch, and now I get to visit my favorite undergrad there. As a result, I have a lot of ideas when it comes to itineraries, but it depends on your interests. Are you a museum person, and if so - do you prefer art, history, or natural history? Or all of the above? Do you like spy thrillers? Are you an airplane buff? Do you want to do some shopping along the way? And are you a foodie? Your preferences can change this itinerary all around. But in general – this would be an ideal 3-4 days in DC. Logistically, I prefer to fly into Reagan National. That way you can easily take the metro into the city. I prefer to stay in the Dupont Circle/Foggy Bottom area. That way you are close to mall, and to Georgetown, and some lovely restaurants. I highly recommend that you purchase all tickets online as soon as you book your trip. The most popular museums (e.g. National Air & Space, the Museum of African American History & Culture, and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum) have timed tickets, so you'll want to schedule everything very carefully. And if you want to tour the capitol or the White House, you'll need to request those tickets through your local congressperson's office. Day 1: Summary: Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Washington Monument, and National Gallery, Museum of Natural History or the American History Museum. Breakfast: Tatte Bakery has a definite Euro vibe to it that I love. There are a few locations around town, but I recommend the one on New Hampshire. You can grab and go with a pastry and a coffee, or sit and eat something more substantial off the menu. Morning: Logistically and geographically, it makes sense to walk due south from here, pass through the George Washington University campus, and start your day at the Lincoln Memorial. It is currently under refurbishment as they create a new museum underneath it, but it is still open so you can experience the sheer size and it’s neoclassical architecture. Afterwards, head to your left (if you are facing the Lincoln Memorial) towards the Korean War Veterans Memorial. The design is incredibly moving. Be sure to walk through all of it. From there, walk along the reflecting pool to the World War II Memorial. The waterfall fountains on this side, by the reflecting pool, are lovely - as is the large pool on the opposite side. Next is the Washington Monument. You can go to the top to enjoy the view, but getting a ticket is the trick since the numbers are limited each day. Notes about Washington Monument tickets: They can be reserved online through the recreation.gov website up to 30 days in advance (& up to 6 tickets per transaction.) There are also a limited number of tickets they make available at 10am each day for the NEXT DAY’s visits (for example: On June 17th at 10am they make tickets available for visits on June 18th). During the peak busy season (March – August and December – early January) the demand is very high and the tickets sell our extremely quickly. Tickets for the same day are distributed each morning at 8:45 a.m. at the Washington Monument Lodge (on Madison Drive on the east side of the monument grounds.) Since the demand is so high during peak season, the line begins forming as early as 7 a.m. Lunch: From here I would suggest grabbing a bite to eat before heading to your museum of the day. Here are my top three suggestions: 1. Teaism, an Asian-inspired cafe that has bento boxes, snacks and many different teas is my favorite, and not just because I love tea. It's close by – just a few blocks away at 400 8th St. My favorite is for lunch is the Korean Brisket with gochujang sauce – it is just the right amount of flavor and protein to power me through my next 10,000 steps. 2. The National Gallery of Art also has a very good cafe called the Pavilion Cafe that is located in their sculpture garden. The cafe is much, much better than museum food and the garden is one of my favorite spots in the city. It does get crowded in the summer so be prepared to wait for a place to sit. But the IG photo ops are amazing. 3. A third choice if you have people with you who would prefer more standard American fare (burgers and wings) is the Penn Quarter Sports Tavern (at Indiana Ave NW in Penn Quarter, near the Archives Metro stop.) You can sit inside or out depending on the weather, and they have all the games on to watch while you eat. Afternoon: For me, I would choose the National Gallery of Art in the afternoon. I could easily spend the rest of the afternoon moving between the two buildings and traditional and modern art. If art isn’t quite your thing, the National Museum of Natural History (home to the world's largest collection of specimens) and the National Museum of American History are right next door and you don’t typically need timed tickets to enter either of these. Evening: When the museums close, I recommend heading over to the historic Old Ebbitt Grill (the oldest restaurant in the city) for a cocktail and an appetizer and to soak up the DC vibe. Then you can hop on the metro and head back to Dupont Circle to freshen up before heading out to Boqueria Dupont for a delicious Spanish tapas dinner. A Note About the Evenings: If your feet can handle it, and the weather is cooperating, I highly recommend exploring the National Monuments at night one evening. They don’t “close” and they are so beautifully lit – it’s a very moving experience and you can get some very dramatic photos for the gram.  Day 2: Summary: White House or Capitol Tour, United States Archives, Georgetown, C&O Canal, Georgetown Waterfront Park Breakfast: Call Your Mother is the best spot for bagels and giant bagel sandwiches. The line is usually super long (especially on the weekends), so it’s best to order via their website before heading over, and then you can skip the line. Go to the Location in the Yours Truly Hotel. If you are staying at the hotel (one of my favorites), then that is even easier. Morning: Depending on which you prefer – you could do a guided tour of the United States Capitol or of the White House. You’ll need to reserve either of these tickets ahead of time through your congressperson’s office. If you do the Capitol tour, definitely head over to the Library of Congress and take that tour when you are done. There is tunnel that connects them, and you don’t have to go through security again since you did that at the capitol. Depending on how you are doing in terms of energy at this point, you can either head over to the National Archives to see the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, or you can just grab an uber from here and head to Georgetown for lunch and to explore. For those that don’t know, Georgetown is the neighborhood that surrounds Georgetown University. It is a lovely neighborhood of old homes with a mix of history, shopping, and foodie destinations. Lunch: Make a reservation for lunch at the Peacock Café at 3251 Prospect St. NW. The food is great, there is always outdoor seating, and there’s a wine bar if you decide to come back in the evening. Georgetown: Since your lunch is on Prospect, it’s a short walk to the Exorcist Steps, as featured in the movie. This concrete staircase is located at the corner of Prospect St and 36th St NW. It’s definitely a lot of steps, so it’s a great way to work off that dessert. From there you can head to the University’s campus and enjoy the architecture, and the lovely homes along the way. The shopping is mostly along Wisconsin and M Streets, if that is what you are looking for. Some of my favorite shops are Tuckernuck, Ann Mashuburn, and Sezanne. Don’t forget to check out the C&O Canal. It’s full name is the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal and now it is a lovely historic walk that teaches you about the early history of Georgetown. There’s currently a project going on to clean and rehabilitate it. If during all of this walking you need a snack or a coffee break, I have two options for you: 1. Consider visiting Crumbs and Whiskers. The cats here are rescued and available for adoption. Your ticket helps to fund their human assimilation and care, and you get a calming break along the way. 2. Grab some coffee at Bitty and Beau’s Coffee and head over to the Georgetown Waterfont Park to enjoy it. This cafe is run by people with disabilities, and everyone there is engaging and lovely to chat with. It’s a great way to impact the local economy on multiple levels. And I love the park. It wasn’t here when I was an undergrad, and I am so envious that its here now. Dinner: There are so many options for dinner in Georgetown, but I here are a few of my favorite for you to choose from: 1. Make a reservation for the institution that is Martin’s Tavern. It’s been there since 1933, and JFK proposed to Jackie there. 2. Clyde’s in Georgetown is the original location and it opened in 1963. It is a local institution, and one of my favorites. I went there as an undergraduate for special occasions, and now as an adult with the fam. It just feels nostalgic. 3. I hate to miss up an opportunity to eat by the water. If that sounds like you, then head over to Washington Harbour. There are a few restaurants for you to choose from there including Founding Farmers Fishers Bakers and Tony and Joe’s Seafood Place. 4. Filomena Italian Restaurant has been a landmark on Wisconsin for over 40 years. There are often celebrity sightings, which just adds to the allure. 5. Ice Cream: Grab some ice cream at Thomas Sweet (referred to as T. Sweet’s by the locals), which has been frequented by most modern day presidents. They have really unique flavors like butterbrickle, swiss choclate malt, or cake batter. They also have sorbets, and vegan options. But the waffle cones are amazing.  Day 3: Summary: Air & Space Museum or the Holocaust Museum, International Spy Museum, Breakfast: Le Pain Quotidien on Dupont Circle is one of my absolutely favorite breakfast spots. The food is always fresh and delicious, and I love the French flair to start my day. Morning: First up is the National Air & Space Museum, and you need to get these tickets online as soon as you decide to go to DC. They have just reopened after a huge remodeling and reinstallation. If planes aren’t your jam, or you didn’t get a ticket, other options would be the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, the National Museum of the American Indian, or the National Museum of African American History & Culture. Lunch: At the National Museum of the American Indian is Mitisam Native Foods Café, and it is excellent. They have a wide variety of foods ranging from soups to fresh fish, tacos and burgers. And they have plenty of healthy options. Afternoon: Next up is the International Spy Museum. Seriously – you need to allocate 3 hours here to really experience it all. I was completely shocked by how much I enjoyed and learned from this museum. If espionage isn’t quite your thing, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum is close by and is remarkably moving. Again – try to secure your tickets for this well in advance, especially during the busy Summer season. Evening: I suggest heading back to Georgetown for dinner, or if you want to check out Navy Yard, take the metro there and have a fabulous Italian dinner at Osteria Morini along the waterfront. Or head to the Morrow Hotel near Union Station and eat at Marcus Samuelsson’s new restaurant, Marcus DC. If you’d rather stay closer to the hotel, Agora DC is a great Mediterranean restaurant. Day 3 Optional Itinerary: Old Town Alexandria: I love, love, love Old Town Alexandria, and I plan to retire there and be the cute little old lady walking to coffee or lunch with her dachshunds in tow. Travel and Leisure had it on their 2024 list of Best Cities in the US, commenting that “it strikes the perfect balance between sophisticated and small-town. Readers were drawn to the picturesque waterfront of Old Town, and praised attractions like the Torpedo Factory and the Mount Vernon Trail for easy bike rides and bird watching.” It is a nationally designated historic district that was founded in 1749 and now has over 200 independent restaurants and boutiques alongside its historic museums and the waterfront. You can easily get there for only $2-$4 dollars and 22 minutes from Dupont Circle on the Braddock Road, Yellow/Blue Line Center Platform. Here is a suggested itinerary should you choose to swop out the day for Old Town Alexandria instead. Once you arrive in Old Town, take a stroll and explore the shops along King Street. There is also a free King Street Trolley if you want to save your feet a bit. There is more to Old Town than just shopping, however. Here are some historical sites to explore: Carlyle House is a Georgian manor and 1700s social hub, Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, hosted the first five U.S. presidents, and Barrett Library is the site of one of the nation’s earliest civil rights sit-ins and more. There is a multi-museum pass called the Key to the City Museum pass, and it is a $60 value for just $20, and includes admission to the 9 historic sites and additional discounts. If you love the water, your next stop need to be the tall ship Providence on the waterfront. The Providence is a reproduction of the first ship commissioned to the Continental Navy. The legendary Captain John Paul Jones gives an immersive one-hour dockside tour at the Senator John Warner Maritime Heritage Center. There are also sunset sails on the weekends during the summer. I strongly suggest having lunch along the waterfront and enjoying the views of the Potomac. Great options include: Hummingbird by James Beard nominee chef Cathal Armstrong Vola’s Dockside Grill, for oysters and lobster rolls BARCA Pier & Wine Bar Ada’s on the River Blackwall Hitch Old Town is gorgeous and very Instagrammable. Here is a list of some of the most Instagrammable stops you need to see, as per Visit Alexandria, and I couldn’t agree more: 1. Spite House is the skinniest historic house in America at just seven feet wide. It is a private residence located at 523 Queen Street. It was built "out of spite" in 1830 to keep loiterers out of disgruntled owner John Hollensbury’s adjacent alley. 2. Cobblestoned Captain’s Row Captain’s Row in the 100 block of Price Street is made of smoothed-down cobblestones in the street and beautiful sunlight coming through the arched tree canopy. This colonial streetscape will transport you to the late 1700s, when the block’s namesake, Captain John Harper, built many of the surrounding homes. 3. Queen Street Rowhouses There is a vibrant strip of rowhouses on the Queen Street’s 400 block. The colors, the flags, the flowers, and the gas-lit lanterns are gorgeous. 4. Wales Alley on Lee Street The hidden alley in the 100 block of South Lee Street in Old Town has brick walls, cobblestones and overhanging hedges creating the perfect spot for photos. 5. Charming Doors Old Town’s striking doorways feature elaborate knockers and flickering lanterns, complementary colors, and eccentric statues. These are like Easter eggs to find as you wander the city. Try the 200 block of N. St Asaph Street, the 500 block of S. Lee Street and the 600 block of Princess Street. 6. Cherry Blossom Paddlewheel Boat at the Marina Stroll down to Old Town’s lively waterfront and get a photo of the Alexandria City Marina, located at 0 Cameron Street. There you will also find a recreation of the 19th-century Victorian riverboat, the Cherry Blossom. 7. Wilkes Street Tunnel Overgrown ivy sprawls over this former railroad tunnel making it already decorated for the gram. It was first utilized by the Orange & Alexandria Railroad in 1851. Now, it’s an alluring underpass adjacent to Windmill Hill Park, located at 398 Wilkes Street in South Old Town. 9. George Washington Masonic National Memorial at Sunset This Egyptian-inspired tower creates an impressive silhouette against the sky and offers a sweeping vista eastward of Carlyle, Old Town and the Potomac. Be sure to capture it at twilight when it is at its most dramatic. Other Additional Options if you have more time in DC< or want to swop out some of the options listed above:
The Smithsonian's National Zoo The United States Bontanic Garden Ford's Theatre, and the nearby National Portrait Gallery Arlington National Cemetery Dumbarton Oaks Gardens Mount Vernon  I often get asked for recommendations of what to do in New York City, especially from people who have never been there before.
I suggest staying in Midtown for a first visit since it is close to all the tourist hot spots. And as a Broadway Baby, I have to suggest getting tickets to a show for the first and/or second night. The rest of the schedule can fall into place around the times for the show(s). So here is the outline that I suggest for a long weekend itinerary for New York City: Day 1: Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and 5th Avenue If you arrive in the morning, drop off the bags at the hotel and head to Times Square and then grab some lunch. For an authentic experience, get something from one of the Halal trucks. I like the one just south of the New York Hilton. After loading up on some lunch, I usually tell friends with kids to go to the Intrepid Air and Space Museum. That will take up most of your afternoon. If that doesn’t sound exciting, then I’d head right to MOMA, followed by a stroll up and down Fifth Avenue, Rockefeller Center, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. If you need a snack along the way I highly suggest a knish from one of the street carts. For dinner I suggest the super cool the top secret Burger Joint made famous by Anthony Bourdain. It is hidden inside the Thompson Hotel at 119 W 56th Street, near Carnegie Hall. Best burger in the city and the fries are yummy too. Another idea is to head to the Empire State Building (weather and view permitting) first, and then explore. OR – if you have tickets to a show tonight (and I hope that you do!) then I high recommend having dinner beforehand at at Victor’s Café at 236 W 52nd. It’s a family favorite for us. Day 2: Central Park, the Museum of Natural History, Central Park Zoo, and the MET After grabbing breakfast at a local deli (the best in the area is Pastrami Queen at 1125 Lexington Ave) I suggest heading to the Central Park Zoo or the Museum of Natural History for the morning, then stroll through Central Park and have lunch at the Central Park Boathouse (around 72nd in the park) before spending the afternoon at the MET. If this is a Girl’s Trip, then after the MET I highly suggest grabbing afternoon tea at the Plaza, or at one of the Laduree locations (of the three I prefer the one on Madison, followed by the one on lower Broadway with it’s pretty courtyard). For dinner, I suggest Red Rooster Harlem. If you watch any of the cooking shows, you may recognize the name Marcus Samuelsson. He and his sister were born in Africa but adopted by a Swedish family, so he was raised in Stockholm. His food is a blend of both cultures, plus the American South. The desserts are all Swedish-inspired, which remind me of both of my grandmas. Day 3: The Highline Park, Chelsea, the Village, and Brooklyn I always suggest to pick one day to head toward the Vessel and Hudson Yards, and then walk down the Highline. Check out the Whitney if art is your thing (I love it, and the Whitney is fabulous!). The Whitney also has a great lunch options at their Frenchette Bakery Cafe. Outside of the museum, I really like Barbuto for some fantastic Italian food. After wandering through Chelsea and the Village, you could check out the Edge New York and/or continue downtown to One World Trade and Calatrava's Oculus. If you want to find some hidden gems in Manhattan, especially lower Manhattan, then do what I do and try to find some weird offbeat things to do, like find the oldest sewer cover in the city (which is in the village) or find the mews new NYU (one of the prettiest blocks in the city). There are a lot on this list of “778 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in New York” from Atlas Obscura. If you need a dinner place after shopping and exploring, and you are in the Meatpacking/Chelsea area then I recommend Buddakan (you may recognize it from SATC – they went there a lot). OR IF you’re feeling adventurous you could walk over the Brooklyn Bridge (great Instagram shots!) and have dinner in the DUMBO neighborhood. But it’s a little bit of a walk from One World Trade, so I’d take a cab from there and have them drop you off at the entrance for the bridge. Here’s a great link to the Best Restaurants in DUMBO. As you can see - three days is just not enough time. But I hope this is a good sampler tour for you! Deciding what to see while you are visiting New York can be overwhelming, so a lot of people ask me for itineraries and suggestions. Not only is the sheer amount of options overwhelming, but it is challenging to know what is worthwhile to try to squeeze in over the course of a few days. But wether you are returning or visiting for the first time, there are some places that you should really consider putting on your list. This is my list of some of the most gorgeous buildings in New York City that you need to try to see - at least once:
The Morgan Library & Museum, located at 225 Madison Ave. is primarily known for its extensive collection of rare books, illuminated manuscripts, and art collection. It's artistic treasures range from manuscripts by Charles Dickens, scores from Beethoven and Mozart, and works by Rembrandt. The library itself is inspired by the Renaissance and wa designed by the architect Charles McKim Gilder Center at the American Museum of Natural History, located at 415 Columbus Ave. is the newest expansion of the museum. It is a new entrance off of Columbus Avenue, and creted over 30 new connections between the ten different buildings that comprise the museum. The building's 5 story atrium creates the feeling of entering into a geological formation with porous holes formed by air and water. It's breathtaking. Neue Gallery, located at 1048 5th Ave. is what is considered a jewel box museum. Founded by Ronald Lauder, it is dedicated to 19th century German and Austrian art and design. The highlight of the collection is Gustav Klimt's "Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I", but also includes many other paintings, furniture, photography and sculpture. It is housed a former Gilded Age mansion on the Upper East Side, not far from the Met. Definitely make time to linger in the Cafe Sabarsky. This is no ordinary museum cafe - this is a trip to Vienna. The Frick Museum, located at 1 E 70th just reopened this April after an extensive renovation. Their Old Masters collection is known for having 3 out of 34 of Vermeer's paintings, as well as the work of Rembrandt, El Greco, Goya and Holbein. Their Italian Renaissance collections includes work from Bellini, and as well as a collection of French 18th century art that includes work from Boucher and Sargent. Albertine Books, located at 972 5th Ave. between 78th and 79th streets, is one of my favorite spots in the city. It is a bookstore and reading room, and with over 14,000 titles from 30 French-speaking countries, it is the largest collection in the US of French-language books and translations. It is located in the Payne Whitney House, which also houses the Cultural Services of the Embassy of France. The interior is simply stunning, and was designed by the French designer Jacques Garcia who is said to have designed it not as a retail location, but as a grand library. Oculus at the World Trade Center, located at 185 Greenwich St.is the breathtaking space above the World Trade Center PATH station (where you depart for trains to New Jersey) designed by the Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. It is a bi-level concourse with shopping and dining, and has access to the One World Observatory, office towers, and the Ferry Terminal in Battery Park. The Met Cloisters, located at 99 Margaret Corbin Dr. is located in Fort Tryon Park. It's location was purchased by John D. Rockefeller Jr. in 1930 and then donated to the Met. The museum contains a large collection of medieval artworks shown in the architectural settings of French monasteries and abbeys. Its buildings are centered around four cloisters - the Cuxa, Saint-Guilhem, Bonnefont, and Trie - that were acquired by American sculptor and art dealer George Grey Barnard in France before 1913 and moved to New York. It is hard to describe how truly beautiful and tranquil this spot is, while located in Manhattan.
Days 2-3 - Hvar: Morning:
 Day 4: Korcula:
 Day 5: Vis Yes - this is where they filmed Mamma Mia. Morning:
 Day 6: Ston: Morning:
Afternoon:
If you are heading to New York City this Spring or Summer, I encourage you to be a little counterintuitive - while you are in the city that never sleeps, I encourage you to slow down. Take a moment to sit at one of these bakeries, enjoy the food, the coffee (or tea for me!), the people watching, and soak up the experience of being in New York while you plan the rest of your day. e
While I am an avid baker, my many years of watching my weight while I was a dancer turned me into a bit of a calorie counter. But now that I am not the athlete I used to be, I will allow myself to relax and and enjoy visiting of my favorite bakeries whenever I can. If you go, please take a pic of your favorite selection and share it with me on IG so I can live vicariously. And Enjoy! Vesuvio Bakery, located in SoHo gives off the quintessential vibe of a bakery in New York, or Paris. Lauderee, yes - the one from Paris, has two locations in New York. One is on Madison avenue and the other one in SoHo is my favorite because of their beautiful outdoor courtyard. Tall Poppy in Chelsea is founded by a pair of Australians serving traditional French pastries. These may be the best croissants I have ever had. Salswee, in Flatiron, is a French-Asian bakery that is famous on social media for their gorgeous fruit cakes (that look like actual fruit) and that sell out by mid-day. So go early. My favorite is the orange. Angelina Paris, the iconic destination in Paris, now has two locations in the city. My favorite is the Bryant Park. It always makes me feel like I've escaped - Paris is always a good idea. |
AuthorKris Delaney is a marketing executive, foodie, travel enthusiast, and book nerd based in Atlanta, GA. Archives
January 2026
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