Lonely Planet Lonely Planet's Where To Go When: The Ultimate Trip Planner for Every Month of the Year

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Almost as far north as you can get in Europe on a train, Abisko in Lapland is for lovers of serious winter. The sun doesn't rise for several weeks in December and January but that darkness makes it one of the world's best places to view the majestic aurora borealis (northern lights). Other attractions include cross-country skiing along national park trails and husky mushing. Cloaked in dense pine forests, marvelous Mljet is an island idyll. Legend has it that Odysseus was marooned here for seven years, and it’s easy to appreciate why he took his time leaving. The eerie truth about New York FAKE buildings: Inside the very mysterious structures spread throughout the city - and the sinister conspiracy theories that lurk behind their doors The rest of the top 10 ranking is made up of Pais Vasco in Spain (fifth), southern Thailand (sixth), Tanzania’s Swahili Coast (seventh) and Austria’s Saalfelden Leogang region (ninth). Then Lonely Planet's authors explain in detail why each destination has been selected. The text describes the place and why it's special at that particular time. The destinations are illustrated by inspiring photographs and have a small infographic that shows the key reasons to go. Practical details make the first step of planning a trip easier.

visit in July 2023 - Lonely Planet Best places to visit in July 2023 - Lonely Planet

Near the town of Bol on Brač’s southern coast lies the tail-shaped Zlatni Rat, Croatia’s most photographed beach. As astonishing as its shape are the two-toned blue-green waters lapping its strand of fine pebbles. Its eastern side gets a steady breeze, drawing swarms of wind- and kitesurfers. Art aficionados could spend days exploring Madrid’s "Golden Triangle of Art" composed of three globally renowned museums, the Museo del Prado, Reina Sofía and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, which are home to some of the world’s most valuable art collections. They are situated along Madrid’s Paseo del Prado (Art Walk), which has recently been granted Unesco World Heritage status. Top tip: At night seek out a “ ruin pub”– an atmospheric drinking venue artfully created in a once-abandoned building.

Tuscany – where visitors can ‘celebrate the slow life’ – comes third in the regions ranking, while Donegal, an Irish county that boasts ‘the highest sea cliffs in Europe’ and ‘miles of unspoilt coastal hiking trails’, lands in fourth place. While lowland regions of China swelter in summer heat, summer is the time to explore the high Tibetan plateau, when temperatures are pleasant and trails are free of snow. Cupping the northeastern arc of the plateau, Gansu province is popular with domestic tourists, renowned as the gateway of the ancient Silk Road and the home of jaw-dropping grottoes, notably at Mogao near Dunhuang. But away from those hot spots, you’ll find peace, along with rich Tibetan culture and wild landscapes, particularly in Gannan prefecture south of provincial capital Lanzhou. Here, the chants of lamas waft across Xiahe from Labrang Monastery – one of the six great monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism; walk the 3.5km (2-mile) kora (pilgrimage circuit) around reputedly the world’s longest stretch of prayer wheels, before refueling on momo (Tibetan steamed dumplings). Aarhus and Jutland, Denmark The long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum is set to open its doors in 2024, offering a tantalizing immersion in Egypt’s ancient treasures. What’s more, budget travelers will have more options, with the potential launch of low-cost flights from Ryanair and Air Sphinx. Unsure when to visit? October is usually a great time, as crowds thin out, temperatures remain balmy and the light provides excellent photography opportunities. Patagonia

best places to visit in Croatia - Lonely Planet 16 best places to visit in Croatia - Lonely Planet

The travel publishing empire turns 50 this year, and its bumper Best in Travel 2024 list is expanded across five categories: top countries, regions, cities, sustainable travel destinations and best-value locations. A Mexico visit in January or February means dry and relatively cooler days, providing some relief in humid coastal destinations. It’s also whale-watching season along the Pacific Coast. In Mazatlán, February is carnival time: the 2024 festival is the 126th edition. Kangaroo Island, Australia Travelers will love Chile in November. After the hush of winter months, Patagonia awakens to the vibrant hues of spring, while the northern regions gradually shed their chill, offering a respite from the dampness of previous seasons. This also marks the ideal time to explore the picturesque coastal towns and desert landscapes of the north, a month before the busy tourist season swings into action. Swahili Coast, Tanzania I've been visiting Berlin for more than 30 years - here's why it's Europe's most exciting city, from great art and compelling museums to an unrivalled music scene Local perspectives, itineraries and recommendations are at the heart of each destination to help you imagine and plan a memorable trip.Wales’ southwest is far less crowded with tourists than the north – and has an air of the untouched and untamed. The best period to visit starts in April, when rainfall is low and temperatures milder. A hike along the Wales Coast Path is the best way to explore this protected shore. Palau At nightfall, the northwest corner of the old town is the stage for Zadar’s celebrated sunsets. The spectacle is set to the ethereal sounds of the Sea Organ, a quirky installation of 35 pipes hidden under stone steps that use the wind to create music. A few feet away is the Sun Salutation, a circular surface of solar panels that transforms into a colorful light show at night. Planning tip: Split’s harbor is the launching pad to the islands of Brač, Hvar, Vis, Šolta and Korčula.